On Monday I was in the Royal Palace with Ann catching monks sitting under a tree ready and willing to take part in my photo. Monday afternoon I was travelling back to Kampong Speu for a couple of days. Thursday meeting with all POE and DOE staff to evaluate the last year's education in Kampong Speu - pleased to say there has been an improvement at all levels - great news. Thursday afternoon- down to Kampot for a night to finalize plans for K&K. Friday mor...

My birthday started on Thursday when several of my work colleagues surprised me with a cake and two skirts. Skirts never fit me properly - these fitted perfectly. Last week Derry (ECE chief) had put a piece of string around my waist and stood beside me and that was all it took for her mum to make me two great work skirts. They are cool and very smart. Yesterday - my actual birthday - was spent enjoying myself. Sheila and I went to The Plantation for lunch and ma...

Order what you want, enjoy what you get describes Cambodia. Yesterday I went back to the cafe in the photo. I have been there several time before and confidently ordered omelette and iced coffee. I got fried egg and hot coffee. I did ask for tok kuk (ice) but just ate the eggs which were absolutely great. So in the end I enjoyed what I got. Congress is over and I am now enjoying a weekend in the big city so this morning it will be a swim and relaxation. This eve...