At the beginning of my 8-week stay at FLO, I devoted all of my time to lesson planning,

But towards the end of my stay, I managed to find a few afternoons when I felt “caught up” and could take off for a half or full hour bike ride. (Granted, there were a few afternoons when I’d thought of taking a ride, but the monsoon rains had a different idea of how to spend the afternoon.)

The students were very willing to share their bikes, “Take mine; it’s really fast!” one called out.

Luckily, I just happened to learn the secret password for getting past the security guards without much fuss on the very day I took my first solo jaunt into the surrounding countryside. Exercise. “I’m going out for exercise,” I’d say. And they’d nod their heads granting permission to leave the FLO grounds (The security has been set up to protect the children, but honestly, at times it felt a bit like a prison. Okay, what would I know about how a prison feels? You’re right; I wouldn’t. And I was free to leave so it wasn’t really . . . point made.)

The following are some pictures I took on my few late afternoon journeys biking outside FLO.

Enjoy. : )

 . . . I’ve been trying to upload photos periodically over the past few days . . . but to no avail.

They’ll come when the time is right, and the internet connection is faster.

Meanwhile, I’ve been loving Luang Prabang. Had the most amazing elephant experience the other day . . . and, I’m digging getting to speak in German and French with the tourists and locals.

Today, the 26th of September, marks our little Fido’s birthday.

While riding in the long, slow boat up the Mekong River to some caves, I realized the date. I took a photo of my “Fido” ring with the carving of his paw print with the Mekong in back.

For now, just imagine it.

Later, I’ll post it.

Regardless, this glob entry is dedicated to the much loved Fido LeHoven.

Love to you all,

-sj