The student delegation from Tenafly, New Jersey arrived today. We spent the afternoon visiting a pagoda next to our hotel and having our first group meeting where the kids discussed their commitment to, and the roots of their inspiration for, mine action.

Our pagoda visit was hosted by my new friend Dun Lep who is a monk and the pagoda's caretaker. I met Dun Lep while on my morning walk last week. He was just opening the gate, his smile invited conversation and after a time he asked me if I would like to see the inside of the pagoda.... we have spent our mornings together since.

The kids and adults were taken in by the beauty of the pagoda and all were very respectful. Hats and shoes were left outside, and our hushed tones reflected the powerful impression the pagoda left on the group... and me.

After the Pagoda, we walked the neighborhood a bit and all had cold Cokes at a family's small cafe near our hotel.

Dinner was maginificent, authentic Khmer cuisine.... the delegation was exhausted... Michealangelo actually fell asleep at the table.

Tomorrow we are off to tour Cambodia Living Arts' program sites... after a well-deserved morning of sleeping in after a long flight here.

Delegation members don new CPI hats.