How do I begin to describe Burma (Myanmar)?

-People still use payphones. They actually wait in line to use them, or a rigged up version of a corded phone hacked into a phone line.

-Burmese openly talk about their preferred method of birth control, and want to know yours

- After Burmese get married, they have babies...right away. "Why you don't have a baby if you married for so long?"  Honestly, they grilled me way more than any friend or family member ever has.  Mom, did you tell them to do that?

-Betel juice stained teeth are everywhere...I also think betel juice might be bad for your teeth...lots of toothless smiles here...Does the film Beetlejuice have anything to do with betel juice?

- They will ask how much you weigh, what your salary is, and are not upset if you ask them the same

-Men wear long skirts

-Women wear long skirts

-These skirts are called longhis (lawn-geeze)

-I bought some of these skirts

-Candy is hard to find

- What does the government have against candy?

- Burmese people love to talk and are some of the most friendly people I have ever encountered

- I'm so encouraged and relieved to experience their friendliness. I can be myself.

- I want some freakin' candy!

- All that is available is sugar cane cubes.

- Sugar cane cubes=instant cavity

- Hmmm...maybe it isn't the betel juice that ruins teeth

- Random people want to take their picture with me!  This is a refreshing change from being at home since I'm known to photobomb, blink, or unexpectedly jerk my head just as the camera is clicking.  I do my very BEST to smile and have my eyes open at the same time.

- I met very few Americans, but met many Burmese men, women and children.

- Female monks wear pink.

- Male monks were the chattiest. One monk in particular, Sea Water, gave me a blessing and gave me a gift, and then made me promise I would return to Burma.

- I enjoyed my time in Burma immensely, and intend to keep my promise.