Blog Number 1!

So, here I start, with post number one. I guess an update is necessary.

Well, I leave for Thailand in 20 days. I will be there for three weeks, and it will be my first experience travelling on my own (without family).

The trip has many purposes. We are rebuilding a school that was destroyed in a recent storm. This is happening in the town of Mae Sot. We will be visiting refugee camps and orphanages, donating relief items and bringing Christmas to kids that don't get to enjoy it the way we do. Most of all, we will be helping those in need; putting our greed and privileges aside.

I suppose I should let you know what I mean by "we". I am not doing this alone. I am going with a group of 15 people (mostly students). Our group is going in partnership with Global Neighbors Inc. In December of 2009, a group went on a very similar trip from my school, SIAST, in Moose Jaw, SK. They then created a group they called Global Students Helping Students. I am now a part of this group, and this is the "we" I am referring to.

More information about Global Neighbours and GSHS can be found on our websites: http://www.gnci.ca/
http://gshs.ca/

Here is an article for your enjoyment, as well: http://nipawinjournal.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2798177

Lastly, I want to add, that I have chosen to go to Thailand 10 days earlier than our working trip takes place. I am going with a friend, and this is purely for a vacation. We are basically backpacking in the Southern part of Thailand. We want to tour around some of the islands, and see all the hotspots.

All in all, it will be quite an adventure; from lounging around on the beaches to seeing the conditions Karen Refugees live in. I have a good idea about what I am going to experience, but I know that I will still be stunned and dumbfounded by what I see and witness. This trip will change my life. And it is only the beginning of life changing trips I plan to take.

With love,