goal for September

It is my not-so-secret desire to become really popular in Poipet. I haven't yet clarified what I want to become popular for... so right now I will settle for knowing a lot of people a little bit and for them to know me at some superficial level.

The first time I crossed the border into "no man's land"/ "the casino strip", I was stopped on the way back and asked to show my passport. I introduced myself, told the guards I was living in Poipet for the next few years and said that if they forget my name they should at least try to remember my face because they will see it at lot! Now when I cross the border I just give them a wave or press my hands together in a more formal greeting.

Yesterday I finished my workout at the gym and was spotted in the lobby by one of the cleaners. She turned to the guy she was working with and said, "Check it out- that's the one who comes here and exercises for... over and hour!" Love it!

A few days ago I met a group of kids playing on the street. They had one bike with a handmade sidecart attached and this was entertainment for about 10 children. They looked like they were having so much fun! I had to stop, chat and ask for a photo. As I walked away, the eldest girl in the group said to her friend, "Maybe she speaks English too...?"

I have been meeting with some NGO & church leaders too. This is good for random meetings down the main street. I walk. They drive 4x4 trucks. They wind down the window, wave and call out, "Hey Pip!" Half a dozen heads turn to see what is going on.

Slowly, slowly, I want to become really popular!!!