800kms later...time to party!

Yesterday was always going to be an emotionally-charged day, full of joy and laughter and tears. It was not only the end of a personal journey for the riders, 800kms of hot, hard slog on their bikes, and months of fundraising, but the last day for us staying at our new home, Baan Tharn Namchai. We were excited about moving to the 5-star luxury of Le Meridian and the huge beach party that was planned for the evening, but we were also sad about leaving our friends and new family. 
Preparations started early at BTN for the arrival of the riders, who were due in about midday. We packed and cleaned our room, the kitchen was busy with chopping fruit and preparing a fabulous lunch for about 200 people. This is surely the biggest day on their calendar and this year was the biggest number of riders, totally about 50. 

Hannah and Meg were put in charge of the Kiwi flag and were determined to make sure the Kiwis were given a fitting welcome as they cycled in. And finally, they were here. Some of the BTN children had cycled to meet them at the top of the road and rode in with them.

It was great to see some old friends from my ride last year and to see the bonds and friendships of the current riders.

After a short welcome, the Taekwondo demonstation, it was time to feed the very hungry riders before hopping on the bus to the resort.

Peter handed out the awards to the riders before Rotjana gave a very emotive speech about looking after the 90 children she now has at BTN and, particularly, the babies that they are now able to care for, thanks to the help of Hands Across The Water. Unwanted babies are sometimes literally dropped off, or they are rescued from disturbing situations. She showed “before” and “after” photos of some of the children and babies and how they are flourishing at BTN. A few have developmental issues, having been uncared for or unstimulated at key stages in their early months and years. Some, who arrived, not speaking, now say a few words and, more importantly, smile. We were all shocked by the photos she showed, an important reminder of why we are involved and here.

 As promised, the iPhones were returned to two very excited teenage girls, who have some Instagram and Facebook posts to catch up on. In spite of being glad to have their phones returned, I know they also understand why I took them away. They have both read a couple of books, and are writing diaries the old-fashioned way!

That night the celebration dinner was held right on the beach for all the riders, supporters and the BTN children, who were led in by the baby elephant, as guests of honour. It was very emotional. The buffet was huge with every type of food you could imagine, from Mongolian BBQ and Italian pasta to sushi and Teppanyaki. Tom invited Gean to our table and they proceeded to munch their way through several courses, before the presentations began.

We certainly let our hair down at the party. It was time to celebrate with the children and riders.

We were also treated to a fantastic Haka by Mita and Gideon, and there was also a lantern lighting ceremony on the beach. We all made wishes as we watched the lanterns float off into the night.