Mine and Jeremiah’s new – and lovely – friend Ying orchestrated this trip for both of us and our other friend Hannah. We visited a Karen (kuh-REN) village and some friends she hadn’t seen in 3 years. Just a 2 hour, 1.50 dollar bus ride out of Chiang Mai City and we were threaded out in traditional Karen clothing, sliding down a waterfall, singing under the night sky, and learning a new language. (My favorite part: our host’s Mom kept on referring to us as her children. Awww!!)

The landscapes: breathtaking. The people: so warm and welcoming. The rice whiskey: a’plenty.

All in all, a phenomenal way to celebrate life, new friends, and the boundless beauty and peace in Thailand.