Another school year ends

How quickly they fly by, and like all others, this has been a big year for me. I have learned a great deal about leading and managing people and even if I do say so myself, I think I have done a pretty good job.

Naturally, I was busy until the end, with transition activities, creating lists and planning new programs and I am sure 2015 -16 will be bigger and better.

A highlight of the term was the culmination of our fundraising efforts to support the Loreto Children's Charity. The 85,000,000VND raised throughout the year was used to purchase books, bookshelves, games and other resources to kit out a school deep in the Mekong Delta; Thanh My Village in Tra Vinh Province. Very early one Saturday morning, a group of 21 students and several staff set off for the official opening. It was a long day, as it was a 4 hour commute each way, but the 2 hours spent there were well worth it.

The children had not had access to the library as its windows had been covered and to see them barge their way in and their sheer delight was absolutely priceless. To then receive a sandwich and their final school report for the year, meant it was a big day for them too. Details of our project

Of course, it was also nice to get out of the city and see those magnificent rice fields and a big blue sky.
My photos of the Loreto Library Project

In contrast, a downside of the term was saying goodbye to friends who are leaving and in particular my recent partner in ... adventures, Liz. We have shared many a conversation, laugh, drink and meal and I will miss her company enormously.

For now, bring on the holidays and a great deal of rest and relaxation.