The rumors are true: I am blogging again

Before I get started, I must dedicate this, my first post in Phnom Penh, to the lovely Margaret Allison.  If not for her, this post may not have ever happened.  Ok, now that that is out of the way we can begin.  I’ve been living in Phnom Penh for about six weeks now and so much has happened already.  The first two weeks were a crazy whirlwind of activity.  My first day here I interviewed a socially engaged monk and had dinner with one of the princes of Cambodia.  I met tons of people working in the development field.  I realized that I have A LOT to learn about development and Buddhism.  I suppose that I couldn’t possible fit six weeks worth of adventures in one blog, so I will use on of my favorite tool…. bullet points!  So far I have (not in chronological order):

• dined with royalty
• made friends with a monk
• found an apartment
• eaten some really good food
• eaten some not so good food
• gotten seriously ill and had to go to the clinic, because I lost feeling in my hands, feet and face (not cool)
• been dragged across the street during rush hour by a motodriver, because I couldn't make it across on my own
• gotten completely soaked my the sporadic torrential downpours
• become addicted to The Office (i know, random)
• got a pet bunny
• had my pet bunny die
• heard some incredible life stories
• met the Cambodian love doctor
• showed up late for the Pchum Ben festivities and only got to see monks sweeping up garbage
• gotten locked out of the gym wearing a bikini and towel, had to call the manager and wait someone to come and unlock the door

Hmmm...I think that about covers it.  I haven't taken any pictures yet (bad Auggie).  I am hoping that my roomie will and then I will just steal his.  In the next couple weeks, I hope to make it out to the provinces  to interview people there.  I am excited, because I don't think Phnom Penh is real Cambodia.  It blows my mind that Phnom Penh and Chittagong are on the same continent.  It seems like they are on different planets.  Ok, I need nourishment.  Stay posted for some more detailed descriptions.  Byeeeeee.