As I mentioned in my previous post, this weekend held a few big events. One of these was a float along the Mekong River (something we've done a few times before) with the Acting Director of Peace Corps, the Regional Director of our EMA region and the White House Liaison to the Peace Corps. Pretty fantastic to meet three stellar, intelligent women and witness a gorgeous sunset.
The Friday before, I attended the wedding of one of Chris' students from the English class he teaches at the Ministry of Planning with our friend and Khmer tutor, Thany. She looked gorgeous in her traditional wedding shirt and sampot- that yellow made me wish I hadn't stuck with boring white when I made my shirt 18 months ago!
Khmer weddings typically happen at home (infographic comparing weddings coming soon!), and this was no exception. Except the groom's home is HUGE and clearly quite new. Not exactly your typical wooden house, it is stone and stucco. The beautiful three level home's yard served as a seating area for guests.
There is always music at a Khmer wedding, and a live 'orchestra' if it can be afforded! The orchestra typically includes at least one male singer and at least three female. This one featured six women and one man, who sang to live music the entire evening.
You can also see how tables are set with drinks and plates ready to go for guests to be seated. All ten guests have to be seated before plates (which are typically wrapped in plastic) can be opened, ice can be served and food can be eaten.
I don't think I'll ever get tired of taking silly self shots in tuk tuks while traipsing around Phnom Penh. Though, it's safe to say that Topher is pretty much over them, though he continues to humor me.
Lastly, this weekend was also the 100 day mark since the former King Sihanouk passed away, and 20,000 monks gathered at the Royal Palace to pray for the King's spirit. They were amassing all along the main roads in Phnom Penh as we made our way to the boat on Saturday evening. The sea of orange was quite a sight.
All in all, a great weekend! Cheers to Monday!
That's so cool that you got to meet them! All of your posts make me miss Cambodia! What a cool time to be in Phnom Penh to see all of those monks gather.
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