pedicures

Everyone has told me over and over how great the pedicures and manicures are in Thailand, so I decided to get one – I want to experience all of the parts of Thai culture. I was on my way with Taylor to find a shop near our house when one of the college students who lives at our house saw us. She said that she would go with me and help me find a place. She took me to a place called “Jazzy Hair-Do.” From the outside, this looks like the nicest hair salon in our neighborhood. She said that it would be less than 3 dollars and that was a good price, so I agreed. The “woman” who greeted us at the door was a 5’ 10 man with long black hair, a white mini-skirt, make-up, and braces. I had heard there were a lot of transvestites in Thailand, so I decided not to worry too much, but I was a little uncomfortable. Then as I sat down in the shop, I realized that everyone working there was a man in disguise. Now, any of you that know me, understand that my love language is not touch, so the thought of having a man in makeup do my toes was not quite the experience that I was going for. Every part of me wanted to think of some reason to leave, but I couldn’t be rude. So, my first pedicure in Thailand was done by a man in a blue jean miniskirt and heels. After leaving the shop, I asked my friend if she knew beforehand that everyone in there was a transvestite, she said yes. I think that is going to be the last time that I get her advice on where to go.
Yesterday (Wednesday), I finally was able to see a little bit of the Buddhist religion. Grant and the rest of our team went on a temple tour. I couldn’t go because of the kids, so we decided to do some fun things together. I had promised the kids that I would take them to breakfast, so we went out for waffles. The restaurant was just opening up when we got there, so I was I able to witness their rituals first-hand. They had around three or four small idols around the restaurant. The mother went to each of them and silently prayed. Then she got a tray with three small oranges and three small drinks. I thought she was going to bring them to my kids, but she put them on one of the idols. I am not really sure of the religious significance of all of that, but it was interesting to see.
Then last night I went to the girl’s small group here at the house. It was all in Thai of course. This has been an incredible humbling experience for me. I cannot understand a word anyone says, but in Mexico of course I am practically bilingual. I am thankful for this experience though because I believe this is going to teach me to be so much more empathetic and patient with people as they try to learn Spanish.