Dec. 31

Today we woke up after our first night staying at Nelsban Palace Hotel. We all walked into breakfast looking very tired but we all perked up after hearing that there was going to be french toast and cheese omelets served. We spent the first part of the day at the largest bead market. Who knew there could be so many beads! Chris bought some really old beads that could be put in a museum and everyone seemed very happy with what they bought.

Our next stop for the day was a batik workshop where we met Grace and James. Batik is a process that uses wax as a resistant on fabric, either using stamps or hand drawings. Everyone was having a blast creating their designs even though the weather was hot and humid. This called for plenty of water sachets to stay hydrated. After everyone was done creating their design we all gathered around to watch the wax melt off the fabric. Everyone was jealous of how amazing Koreys' turned out. Grace and James really loved Brianna's batik of an African dancer and they took pictures of it to recreate it later to sell.

Into the evening we headed over to Scotts place to have a new years eve celebration which included a pig roast and palm wine (with other foods/beverages as well.) We were introduced to a group of drummers and dancers who preformed during the celebration. Everyone was welcome to get up and join in the dancing part at anytime. Kayla was very eager to dance and was the first one to get up and show off her moves, the others soon followed ending the night drenched in sweat. Who knew water sachets could be used as water guns to cool everyone off. We hope your New Years was as great as ours!

-Briana and Kayla