Thailand Day 1 - May 23rd/24th

Wow, what an exciting 1st day. I woke up at 6AM, feeling fairly rested which is really good since I didn't go to bed very early.  I finished packing my carry on and Colin and I left at 8 to pick up Christine.  Then we headed to Lisa's to meet up with the rest of the group.

John P led us in an amazing group prayer and the guys took pictures of the group. By 9:15 we were pulling out of the driveway. It took us a little longer than normal to get to the airport, but we were ok.  Colin dropped us off at the International terminal and then we found out we had to leave from Terminal 1, the United terminal.  So, after a short train ride, a fairly uneventful check-in, and surprisingly quick security, we found ourselves at our gate with about an hour to wait.  The flight was slightly delayed, and we go off around 2pm.  (The pilot said we would make up the time in the air.)

We were ALL very thankful to have the Economy Plus seats.  That extra ~10" makes a surprising difference.  Most of us didn't really sleep.  A couple got some real rest and the others got some cat naps. So how do you fill a 13 hour flight?  Books, Movies, Making friendship bracelets and talking.  I think we each brought other things to do, but our seating arrangement made some of the things difficult.

 

photo by Amy P

We landed in Tokyo a little late but in enough time to touch base with home, get some waters, and pull ourselves together for the next part of the trip.  I think we all dreaded the thought of getting on another plane for any period of time.
The flight to Bangkok was less crowded.   Our seats were better group wise with Lisa and I on one side of an aisle, Amy and Rachel right across from us, and Christine just in front. Our plan was to stay awake for the last flight (6 hours) so that we would sleep well.  All of us ended up falling asleep for at least a couple of hours.  Even if it wasn't good sleep, our bodies needed it.

We landed just after 11PM Bangkok time on Friday night.  We exchanged a little bit of money, made it through Immigration, picked up all 5 bags! And made it to the hotel a little after 12.  I was impressed with how smooth that part went. We spent the night at the Novatel which is right at the airport.  The rooms were comfortable and we were able to call and text with our loved ones. 

Tomorrow we plan to do some site seeing, relax, and get to our official residence (the Bangkok Christian Guest House) about 5PM to meet our leader, Connie.
It is kind of surreal to realize, we are in Bangkok. 6 months ago, we each had a unique experience and agreed to this trip.  To find ourselves here, 6 months later - to know that on Saturday, we will become part of a group of 29 women who came here to serve other women.  That is mind blowing.


We continue to covet your prayers.  We can feel them and know that is why we arrived here safely.  Thank you all,
With Love and Prayers,
Karla