For me this was a new but enjoyable challenge, having last year joined Jude and Doug, along with a few friends, for my first building trip. As a result of an incredible trip, we decided to make the step of leading our own team to Cambodia. It has been quite a journey and along the way there have been so many people to thank for their support, donations, drinks, medicines, t-shirts, printing, fundraising efforts, fundraising support, general enthusiasm and lots more, not forgetting the infamous goat. See 03 November 2006 News Article. Overall, we raised $20,000 that went directly to build the houses and support those further back in the community development program, with all of the team covering their own travel, accommodation and other costs.

As a team, we had a mixture of emotions and experiences that started with excitement, anticipation and apprehension, through to some very confronting experiences during our orientation, some sickness, travel boredom, hard work in very hot humid conditions, to eventually relief, fun, laughter and exhilaration at the results we achieved. And this doesn’t come near to expressing the feelings about a trip that will remain with all of us and may even change some of us forever. Additionally, we even had two birthdays, two engagements and a graduation to celebrate along the way. I shall never forget expressions on the faces of those poor staff at the FCC as Katrina demonstrated her “liturgical” dancing and they maybe for the first time ever experienced the "Time Warp". I am still deciding whether Youtube is getting these.

We completed 15 houses that will house around 100 Cambodians, many of whom are children who now sleep soundly with their families, and a roof over their heads to protect them as the rainy season comes to Cambodia. The wonderful addition is that as a community they can now support and shelter many other people and show others the results of working through the Tabitha Community Development program.

As importantly, we spent time in the community sharing fun, happiness and laughter with people who I am sure will not forget the crazy Aussie, Kiwi, American, English, Irish ..... people who came to build their houses. To see the laughter, excitement and happiness we brought to these people even for a short time has moved me personally more than anything else. As one member of the team said; “These people have everything and nothing” they live in a beautiful location, are caring and wonderful people but have struggled beyond imagination to survive their poor circumstances and keep their families healthy and together.

THANK YOU all for your support in 2007, and in anticipation of your support for 2008. Yes, plans are already being built for next year’s trip. If you are interested or would like to see photos from this year, visit my website for more information.