When Everything's Times Twenty!

Of all the challenges faced during the global pandemic that is Covid-19, families adjusting to 'online learning' will likely go down as one of the most remembered in normal households all around the world.

Without question, this will be a chapter in our story at Hot Springs that won't soon be forgotten.
I mean, we're talking online learning with 20 kids!!!  I guess that's hardly a 'normal' household!

Even considering everyone's in pandemic mode and it's understandably difficult for authorities to make any long range plans, all of this happened for us with very short notice.   Added to the last minute preparations, was the fact that our children had been with surviving family members and/or legal guardians for the duration of their summer break, mid-March to mid-May, with the understanding that that's where they would stay until school began July 1st.  That was the Thai government's first thought about how to keep children safe during this time of physical distancing.

For Suradet and Yupa, that meant a sudden need for bulk groceries, something a little tricky there like it would be here right now, making sure the rooms were ready after some painting and other upkeep maintenance projects that were still in progress (with a July 1 deadline in mind), AND attending the meetings provided for parents to train them on the computer programs required for the remote education experience.  Remember, Suradet and Yupa do everything times 20!

Everything started on Monday (May 19), so we're not even finished the first week yet.  I am in touch with Suradet and Yupa daily, if nothing else but to just cheer them on.  We are all committed to providing our children with everything they possibly need to achieve their best potential.  Online learning wasn't part of the original plan, nor is it expected to be a permanent situation.  But it is what is required of our on site Staff now.  And it's a big job.

We are so grateful for those who have stepped forward to provide un-budgeted-for funds to purchase the extra computers and an upgrade to our existing computer that were required to accommodate everyone.  Getting things set up in three different stations, grade-related, is the strategy we've adopted to begin.  It means Suradet and Yupa, as well as other Staff, are constantly doing the rounds, checking in on the progress, making sure everyone's connecting with the internet and with the material in ways that work for them.



Too soon to know what kinks they'll need to work out.  But the pictures show everyone hard at work, books open and work on screen.

Of course, since it's still really, really hot in Thailand right now, a trip to the swimming hole from some cooling off helps keep everyone on track too.

And it was a special gift and privilege to arrange a time when Ken and I could join in evening worship, via Facebook video chat.  We took a look at some comforting verses from Psalm 91, and sang together the song "Still" which talks about God's presence to help us 'rise above the storm'.  These are the times when I'm grateful for all the technology.  Talk about a 'distanced' visit!

We want to keep everyone informed as to all that's happening for us at New Family Foundation in light of the challenges we're all facing, and particularly as to how it is affecting our children at Hot Springs.  The good news is that God is providing, spirits are good, and the true fact is that if our kids weren't part of NFF they would not be receiving their education right now.   There are just no schools, no devices, no internet in the villages where they are from.

So, we can't say it enough.  Thank you!!  Everyone who contributes in any way at all, as Sponsors, as general supporters, as visitors who establish relationship and connection.....you are making this possible.

We will keep you posted!!!

A Covid Update for Hot Springs

They're all coming home!

Life in a Covid world is nothing if not unplannable.  That's true in Canada and true in Thailand.  Things can change quickly, so it's important for everyone to stay open for what each day brings.

When Thailand originally went into lockdown it was the beginning of a two month summer holiday.  The government plan at that time was to push back the beginning of the school year by six weeks, with the hope that the pandemic phase would be complete and it would be safe for them to call everyone back to school by July 1.

On Tuesday of this week (May 12) we received a phone call from our children's schools (elementary and high school) informing us that online learning would begin on Monday, May 18, which would be the normal first day of school.   Children are expected to be ready to 'go back to school' but just not in the building, a way of learning that our own Canadian kids have been participating in for several weeks already.

Because our Hot Springs children are registered in the local school district, and because most of them have no internet access or devices up in the mountains where they are, it's now necessary for them to come back 'on time'.

What this means for us at Hot Springs.

One, we have to get the children back from their living relatives sooner than expected.  Most of them are being fetched (as we speak) back from the mountain villages.  This is usually at least a day long journey, with many stops for bathroom breaks and food along the way.  Our first prayer is for their safety, not just from the normal travel risks prevalent on mountain roads, but also from increased exposure to the virus as they make their way back.

Two, we have been forced to purchase at least two more computers in order to facilitate the online learning required.  Currently there are seventeen sponsored children, plus two staff children, plus two Bible school students all vying for one computer, which is sufficient when it's just shared for homework purposes, but won't be enough for online learning.  Our prayer here is for good prices and availability, both of which can be affected due to increased demand.

Three, Suradet and Yupa will add this schooling component to their already abundant responsibilities in overseeing New Family Foundation overall and the care of the children in particular.  Our prayer here is for consistent internet connection (not always the case at Hot Springs), loving cooperation (older students already help younger students with homework), wisdom and stamina for all Staff, and of course protection for the health of all as everyone comes back from variously exposed environments.

For a general idea of the overall Covid situation in Thailand I would direct you to the WHO report at this link.  I am currently researching other articles and in conversation with Suradet and Yupa for a more fleshed out understanding of the economic and social impacts of the months of lockdown.  I am uncertain what, if any, government emergency funds have been made available to folks struggling.

Meanwhile, for the valiant Team at Hot Springs right now, there is a sense of urgency for sure, and a wondering at how all of this will translate into a new way of being a family.   But with typical resilience and deep faith, Suradet and Yupa just keep on doing what God's called them to do with grace and humility....and a deep appreciation for all the care and encouragement of all our Sponsors and Supporters.

Anyone interested in helping out with some of the extra costs for computers or any other ongoing educational needs during this unusual time, please feel free to email me at rabreithaupt@hcc.kw and I will be happy to direct your inquiries.

And while I've been careful to keep saying that this whole online learning thing is "NOT HOMESCHOOLING" because it isn't, the homeschooling Mom in me would so love to be there with them right now!!!

I'm sure I could find another reason to use a live goat as a lesson illustration!!!

Finding Love In All the Right Places: Becca's Story

Part of an ongoing series highlighting the experiences of folks who have visited our family in Thailand.  Here's Becca's story.

I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience the strong and loving community at Hot Springs.  

I will always remember the first day we arrived at the airport and how Ahajan Suradet and Yupa welcomed us with big hugs, smiles and beautiful flower necklaces.  When arriving at Hot Springs later that day, we were welcomed again, with the warm and exciting smiles from all of the children. 

Ahajan Suradet and Yupa not only raised their own children, but also generously opened their arms and home to many others.  I could see how much they have loved and cared for these children.  Their kindness and compassion has built a large, extended family. 

Before leaving to Thailand, my friends were joking with me telling me that I was going to find love in Thailand.  I thought, “haha, no, probably not”.  What I didn’t know, was that I actually was going to find love, but a completely different, unexpected kind.  This was shown in everyone’s actions and care for one another.  

While we were there, Ruth Anne explained the five love languages: words of affirmation, physical touch, acts of service, quality time and gifts.  She also explained that most people will only demonstrate 2 or 3 of these actions to their loved ones, but that the community at Hot Springs demonstrates all of them and I was able to witness that.  

This was something that has touched me so deeply, and that I will never forget.

Becca Shirer