Riverkids Project

Morning sleepyheads! Everyone was at the house by 5 AM and the kids had pork pies for breakfast.

"It's really early, I had to brush my teeth and pack extra clothes for the beach and you want me to smile?" She's actually one of our chatterboxes.

All aboard the big bus. There was very loud Khmer music karaoke playing, so the trip itself went well - four hours of very LOUD music.

Stopping midway for brathroom break and drinks. Very funny watching a dozen boys race off to the field for a peeing competition. Parents pitched in for cold drinks.

The long journey to the beach meant some kids snuggled up and slept. One on the flour, one in the chair, another on my lap and a fourth one hanging over the seat in front!

This brave grasshopper pet made it to the beach and back.

Finally! It was rainy and cold and the kids were thrilled. We set up camp under a big tent with rented chairs.

Squid-on-a-stick. Yum. Foodsellers came by, and the kids packed away our noodles, rice with pickle and meat and veg, then squid, prawns and other snacks!

The rain and a tattered tarp meant we did have fresh water to shower and wash hands!

And off they go! They were pretty cautious at first - especially when the river kids discovered salt water! oh, their faces. - but then they plunged in to the waves, and the surf. Some parents and staff swam with them.

Waiting for the waves to come in and burying each other in sand.

Snuggled up against the cold, the youngest baby played a bit. His little brother at the bottom was desperate to go into the sea but was only allowed a little paddle.

Most of the kids and parents and staff waving for the camera. Phy Sophon is to the far right.

We were almost ready to go, but they wanted one more look at the sea. First ever beach trip definitely a success.

Back in Phnom Penh! Dinner, showers for the kids, and then most of the kids went home, with some who lived too far staying the night.

Twelve little girls in a row upstairs. They're all tucked in but it took them another hour to settle down with giggling and playing.