Staff from the office in Bangkok and Phuket, my Bangkok based son, my mother-in-law who lives in Hua Hin, and myself, embarked from the JW Marriott Hotel in Phuket for our 4 hour journey by van and boat to the sea gypsy island of Prathong.
 |
 |
| Mear (PR Phuket), Samran (fund director on site), Kathy, John (son), mother in law (Connie), Ang (PR Phuket) | Our six fishing boats!!!! Minor1,2,3,4,5,6 Prathong Island |
It was the auspicious day and time to launch the 6 fishing boats sponsored by the Minor Tsunami Recovery Fund. We were all set for a fun day!
Five of the boats were to be given to Mogon Sea gypsy fishermen from the island, and one boat was for the family of one of our staff from the Anantara Khao Lak Resort, who now lives with his family in KuraBuri. All had lost their livelihoods in the Tsunami.
 |
 |
| The fishermen and their families greet us on the pier | A feast of sea snails, crab, and seaweed cashew soup in our honor |
We were greeted by, what seemed like most of the island families when we arrived at the pier. And…………….they had prepared us a lunch with all of their specialty foods! We were thrilled to have been able to help these generous people. Then it was off to the boats for their spiritual blessing.
 |
 |
| Tying the lucky ribbons | Offerings of fruit, chicken, sweets and liquor |
 |
|
| Flowers, incense, and gold leaf for safety at sea |
With the ribbons tied, gold leaf affixed, offerings and prayers complete, the evil spirits were sent packing with a mighty blast of fireworks! The party began!
 |
 |
| Loud fireworks to scare off any evil spirits hanging around! | Chai Yo! Local brew to seal the afternoon’s fun! |
We and the fishermen and all their friends and family had enjoyed a wonderful day. How pleased we were to see smiles and pride on the faces of the fishermen who now could return to their way of life, and get back to supporting their families. Their gratitude to us, and our gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this amazing project is beyond words! To an escort of new fishing boats and happy families, we left the island, and headed home to work on the next heart warming chapter.
 |
 |
| flotilla of new fishing boats and gratitude! | |
| Thank you all for your contributions!!! | |