Home is where the heart is...

My thai-extended family.
From left to right: Me, Ame, Chawguaw (the dog), Oang, Mook, Pleun and Sa.

My uncle George and I arrived just after 1AM on the 18th. We were met at the airport by a friend of a friend of a friend, who kindly drove us to our very nice hotel for the night. This hotel came as quite a shock to us as we were prepared for far less "star" accommodations. This hotel had air conditioning and a mini-bar! As I began to drift off to sleep, after having collapsed onto the bed, I was acutely aware of how blessed I am. And I will continue to be thankful for everyday that follows.

This morning, after a very nice Thai breakfast, we were picked up by another friend of a friend and driven to Ame's house. I was welcomed in with the customary "wai", which is a bow with both hands pressed together under the chin, followed with a very kind, sa-wa DEE kah, which means hello.

I want to introduce you to one of the world's finest Good Samaritans, Ame. (pronounced: Em)

Ame has opened her house to us and to anyone seeking help and currently has five young people staying with her. She is passionate about helping young and old battle drug addiction and counsels on average 5-10 people a day in her home. She is the touch point for the orphanage and her connections and influences in Bangkok, and through out Thailand, are palpable. I have been in her presence for less than day now, but I can see how she has touched the lives of those staying in her house, her passion for helping those that are less fortunate and her willingness to share. The effects are contagious. If this first day is any indication of what is to come.....hold on to your knickers folks, this is going to be a life changing experience for me.