U-Moong Community

Our time in Loei Province was one of the most memorable for me. The villagers of U-Moong showed us nothing but generosity, love, and kindness. Upon arrival fairly late one Friday evening, our vans were greeted by a mob of smiling children and parents. When my name was called, a little girl walked up to me and introduced herself. This 13 year old would become my little sister. 6:30 the next morning, Fight rolled over: "Mareessa wake wake!" 

I was about to embark on a day filled with adventure and laughter, I just didn't know yet.

First thing that morning, we went to the community's Wat, or temple. I always enjoy going to the Wat on homestays, and this was no exception. Following the lead of my little sister was exciting; she was shy but she also wasn't afraid to laugh if I did something wrong. After morning prayer, we went home and ate breakfast.

 First stop of the day, the temple in the mountains. We hopped on her motorbike (shhh!) and chugged up the steep hill. I guess her bike wasn't used to the weight, so I was told I needed to walk the rest of the way. With my 9 year old cousin by my side, we raced up the big hills. 

Equally scared & impressed that my 13 year old sister could drive a motorbike,

At the top, I was breath taken -- not only because I ran up a mountain, but the sights around me stopped me in my tracks.

 Buddha, glistening in the sun

A bird's eye view of Ban U-Moong

After Fight and her friends showed me around for about an hour, we headed home. Next stop: fishing in the mountains. We drove down a bumpy and muddy road, and once again I was told to walk the rest of the way. Mai ben rai (don't worry), I needed the exercise. 

A little pond peaked through a clearing in the fields.

Without hesitation, Fight jumped into the water to catch a frog

Prim's first catch of the day! She went on to catch three more, I was so proud!

You may have guessed already, but yes, we ate those fish that night. Ah roy mag! (really delicious). After a long morning, I was exhausted. In dire need of a nap, we headed home. 

Next adventure: swimming!

I hopped on a tractor with the kids, some fellow farang, and a bunch of the paws (dads).

An incredible afternoon was spent splashing around. I took nothing for granted. I soaked it all in, the mountains, the people, the laughing, and so much more. 

This day fixed a smile on my face that hasn't really gone away since.

This was only day one with Fight, but we made a connection that will continue for years to come. I'm so thankful for the time in this community, as they've taught me so much about the power of love, community, and happiness. There is definitely more to come about my time in U-Moong, so stay tuned!