In November/December 2023 we traveled to Luang Prabang, Laos. 500 books were purchased. We also attended multiple of the "Conversation Practice" at Big Brother Mouse where kids and adults would come to chat, ask questions, and hone their English skills. We visited Big Sister Mouse Orphanage and School, working with the kids on lessons.

A public bus took us the several hours to Nong Khiaw, both secondary and primary schools got delivery of books. We took a boat upriver, hiking to multiple villages, as you'll see below. A public boat to Muang Ngoy and a hike out to Ban Na delivered more books. A boat, tuk tuk, and another boat got us to Muang Khua to deliver the last of the bunch.

In November 2024, we returned to Luang Prabang to buy books, visit Big Brother Mouse, see old friends and make new ones. We took 50 letters from kids across America in partnership with the Lao Youth Association so kids (and others) on Lao could have reading and writing practice. We worked our way to Champasak vis long and bumpy vans, buses, tuk tuks, and more. We and donated time, books, and money to AD Learning Center. We visited Don Daeng island, via boat, and walked to multiple village schools to make donations. Next was Don Som, where 98% of the island does not have running water and electricity can be scarce. We worked with the Don Som Project, supplying the village with a multi-topic library, organizing the Community Room, helping to paint and more. From there, we went via boat to Don Det island, visiting the primary and secondary schools, meeting many locals, and being overwhelmed by the smiles. It was sad to head back home, always in hopes of return.

 

The photos below tell the tale.