just wanted to add something about my weekend...hanging out at chantha's house showed me a glimpse of what their life is like. though chantha's house is fairly modern, she doesn't have a fridge or washing machine. she doesn't have a lot of "things"...i guess what struck me was that her life seemed to have this peaceful simplicity to it...

another thing, she's helping to support her nephew (about 22, student) and niece (about 25, seamstress), so they're living with her. it's interesting to see their relationship...especially their respect and obedience to her. they do everything she asks them to, and a lot of things she doesn't even have to ask for. i compared this to the way i am at home, and i was definitely challenged...i hope to remember this when i get back home.