A while back we started cleaning up the empty space in front of the boy’s dorm.

We have come a long way, but now must wait for the trees to grow and that may take a while.

Yesterday the children finished the bonfire area by moving some very large rocks that will be used for seating.

And since the children will all be going for home visits soon we decided to celebrate by having a Catfish and Sweet Potato cookout. Mr. Ouen, a former resident and now our newest staff member, set most of it up and then helped the children catch the Catfish…

While some of the older kids started the fire early so that the coals would be hot and ready for roasting.

Then kids arrived with the dressed catfish and yams and arranged them neatly on the fire…

As the younger children danced to beat of Khmer rock music.

The food and drinks were plentiful…

And even the youngest enjoyed the fish. Unfortunately, I had already eaten my supper and didn’t have any room for the fish… at least that is what I told them when they offered it to me.

It was a great way to end the school year and a memory they will not soon forget.

Thanks to all of you who make these memories possible!

The Watopotians