We arrived back at Barn Than Namchai a couple of days ago and it really did feel like coming home. After the long flight from New Zealand, we were greeted at the airport by Nong and Oot from the staff who drove us up to Tekua Pa. Tom was so excited to see the kids, and in particular his buddy, Gean. It was 12 months since they had seen each other but they had written and exchanged photos over the year.
As we pulled into the road, the main difference to BTN was the brand new roof cover over the old playground. This huge structure, by sheltering everyone from the rain or the sun, had now transformed this space into covered play area, performance area, meeting place, restaurant and a great new venue for Children’s Day celebrations on our second night, which Tom remembered well from last year. More silly games mainly involving balloons ensued and I even took part in the game which meant I had to blow up a balloon until it popped. The missing piece of information was that they had filled it with talcum powder and you end up in a white cloud of scented dust at the end, with ringing ears.
All good fun. Ended with Karaoke which the children embrace passionately, their chance to shine on the stage like rising stars eagerly clutching their microphones. Some of them are very talented. Some of them reduced Tom to uncontrollable giggles, probably just glad that it was not him on the stage!
It was wonderful to see Khun Rotjana in such good spirits and looking so well. Last year has been a hard one for her and the last time I saw her was for the cremations of two of the children that tragically drowned.
There are now 102 children at BTN and they are all growing up so beautifully. No fighting or arguing, just smiles and laughter. Theirs is a rich life, full of love, spirituality and community, largely free from the trappings of greed and consumerism that can taint our “civilised world”. They are lucky kids and Tommy immediately felt right back at home and is followed around by children calling his name!
Earlier in the day, I had reunited with my lovely friend, the art teacher, Krutoy, who took us to see her new building which is progressing on her plot of land. The main attraction is her young chicken, which she named Kiwi. As soon as she opened the door, this bird came running out of the house and into her arms. A chicken that loves to be cuddled and carried around and was even falling asleep in my arms. We have 5 eggs for breakfast from Kiwi as well!
Krutoy also took us to the Rainbow waterfall for a welcome cool dip. Only 3 days now until I fly to Bangkok to do the ride - hope I acclimatise to the heat!
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