From Forest Bamboo to Chic Outdoor Lighting

Step One: procure forest product

 

Step Two: wash with soap and water

Step Three: (not really a step at this stage, but being a newbie, I commence lacquer application)

Step Four: preview product for wife

 Step Five: drill holes in bamboo for light to shine through

Step Six: clean up holes with sandpaper

Intermission: hugs

Step Seven: more lacquer 

Step Eight: attach wiring, cosmetic rope, and hang it up

Looking Good!

All Done!!!

Trade Secret: Either soak bamboo underwater for 3 weeks prior to construction or boil for a day in a large tank.  If not prepared properly, the bugs will decimate bamboo lights within 6 months.  

Growing their Lao Vocabulary

The Three Stone Fire

In the outside kitchen learning to make a fire.

Ah, success 

(note the garden hose blow tube)

Waiting for the water to boil. 

(this is what happens when you don't have Saturday morning cartoons)

First Day of School from August

3rd grade

2nd grade

1st grade

Any guesses on which child woke up in the 4 o'clock hour? So much excitement.

Kids

Stompy was just a little kid when she arrived last June.

Zach's baptism in June