No doubt…the highlight of my visit to Myanmar was the rural area of Kalaw. The area is filled with pine and bamboo forests and ideal for trekking…as well as impressive views of the mountains and valleys including orchards of citrus, bananas, avocados and figs. We made our way into the village of Taung Ni for an overnight stay in their monestary. Before sunset, we set off to take a walk through the village with my little Fuji Instax Mini in tow…with lots of film.
Think about how many children have never seen a photo, much less one of themselves. And to be able to keep it? Priceless moments.
I’ll let their little faces tell the story…
a few were hesitant…at first…
but hesitation soon turned into full blown excitement for a portrait session!
So proud.
More soon! gg
OMG! How adorable are all those precious children. What a delight to see how happy you made them by giving them a picture of themselves… Such a simple gesture, but one with such a huge impact!!! I’m sure those children will never forget the day the beautiful lady came, took their pictures, and gave it to them to keep… Thanks for sharing this beautiful story. XoXo
Thank you! ♥ It was so much FUN!!! xoxo
I doubt there are words to express how I feel about these pictures. Mostly, I just want to settle in and spend an afternoon with these little darlings – playing games, reading stories, making crafts (can you tell I worked with children for many years?). Your photographs tell the stories of childhood everywhere – the mix of innocence, promise, and joy. And somehow, in the faces of these children, I see that God loves us – no matter what.
Thank you so much Donna! The mixture of innocence, promise and joy…perfect description! ♥
I just want to head straight back! I so love these encounters with children in the small and remote villages in Myanmar.Such a brilliant idea to bring your polaroid. The little boy who is so totally absorbed looking at the photo? Priceless.
Thanks Karen…I can’t wait to trade stories from both of our adventures into this amazing country! We are so fortunate! ♥
You were a ray of sunshine to these kids. You did a mitzvah (look it up) and the photography is pretty wonderful also. That’s my girl!
You so know me…I had to look it up, lol! Thank you my sweet!!!
My Dear Robin, this brought tears to my eyes.
So touching. These sweet and innocent children will treasure this fascinating gift you gave them forever and never, ever forget. Hopefully, it will be passed down and they will have something tangible and so precious and meaninful to pass down to their children. You’re like that one teacher or mentor that changes a child’s life, they certainly will never forget the beautiful lady with the blond curly hair who shared such a special gift with them.
These are too precious not to share with the world, Robin. You must get these out to NG or get that book published before I burst. I wish and hope you at least share these at galleries – They are just so emotionally evoking, more of the world needs to see these.
Abby is right, it is a mitzvah but not your first and certianly not your last. You live your life doing mitzvahs all of the time. You are so very special.
Thank you so much for sharing and I look forward to more, more, more!!
xoxoxo
Thank you so much Lisa…I know…people tell me that all the time (galleries…books…) and my first reach is just to print, ha ha!! I just love to photograph…show a few…and take more and move on! One day…
Thank you, Thank you!
♥
You need an assistant to do the printing and all the tasks that you need done. You’re too busy and your time and talents are needed to continue to change people and bring joy to the world. It’s your calling.
I’ll bet you can get a college intern for free. It would be an honor for anyone to assist you!
XOXO
What a bunch of sweeties! and you with your camera, brilliant!!
Thank you! I hope this will inspire others to do the same! Amazing how something so simple can/could create such an impact on a little life. ♥
way cool!
Thank you Katrin! ♥
L o v e d these photos! You captured beautifully the innocence, impishness and soulful nature of these children. As a teacher for more than thirty years, children have always held a special place in my heart. I haven’t traveled nearly as much as you have, but I suspect that kids are kids no matter what part of the world they inhabit. At least that’s my takeaway after seeing your wonderful photographs.
Oh, thanks Patricia for visiting the blog! Yes, that’s exactly what I’ve found in my travels…kids are kids…and I just LOVE being able to have a small impact on their lives. I brought my instant camera to an orphanage in India and it was a major hit. Same situation…many had never seen themselves in a photograph…much less have one to keep! Next up? Remote areas of Nicaragua! Thanks again and I so enjoy following your images on Instagram!! ♥
Just the most beautiful children and wonderful images of them Robin. Loved too how you handled the situation though and how much fun you made it for them. Very touching…..
Thanks so much Catherine…loved every minute!
My throat gets a little tight over all that preciousness…such treasures, each.
I love how you see them. The care you show and share when you give them photos
of themselves….it touches my heart so sweet. THANK you, friend.
Just thank you.
-Jennifer
Thanks Jennifer! Your words…oh my…always so lovely.
Simply marvelous:)
Thanks Elena! So appreciated!
This post and its children are so precious! I enjoyed so much while reading, and I’m still smiling! 🙂
Thank so much Lily! Appreciate your visit!
This has brought tears of joy to my eyes, dear Robin. You have no idea how much like “heaven on earth” this feels to me. The fact that you even thought this up says so much about YOU and your tender, loving heart. This deserves a wider platform than this blog post…seriously. It belongs in an inspirational magazine. Please think about how that might happen….?!
Oh, thank you Ginnie! I saw what an impact it had on the children in the orphanage that I visited in India and I knew then…I would always travel with this little camera. It was perfect for Myanmar! You know me…always on to the next thing…but I’ll keep my eyes open for a possibility…I would love to see others invest in a small little polaroid and have a similar experience! xoxo So happy you are on the mend now after your knee surgery!
Oh!… what an amazing idea, Robin. Priceless moments and wonderful images…
Thank you Zena!! So appreciate your visit!
To see the sheer excitement of something new…discovery seen through a child’s eyes is pure bliss for the soul….this has done my heart good….bless you Robin!
Oh…how wonderful! Reading comments like this makes my heart sing too! ♥