80:60

the current headmistress (left) and the school's original headmistress (right)

The last final exam finished at 2:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon, and in the following hours the assembly hall was transformed from an examination room into a banquet hall. Friday was the eightieth birthday of our beloved Ajarnyai (headmistress). The school also celebrated her birthday last year on the day before the term holiday. It was an afternoon party in the outdoor student canteen with lots of food and celebration. This party was more formal, as this year also coincides with our school's sixtieth anniversary. The assembly hall was decorated in banners bearing the slogan "80:60," along with a beautiful newly commissioned portrait of Ajarnyai. It was a very special day.

Geoffrey, our de facto leader, arrived in the assembly hall early to reserve a good table for the three remaining ajarn farang - James, Ryan and me. The most important table, the place of honor, was near the stage. This is where the "Four Yings" would sit - the Ladies Thanpuying and Khunying, four ladies at our school with the highest two titles of nobility that the Thai monarchy bestows upon women who have done a great service to the kingdom. At our school, there are three Thanpuying, including our headmistress. This is the highest title in Thailand and is something like Lady. Our assistant headmistress is Khunying, the second-highest title in the kingdom, which often translates to Dame.

"cha yen" - Thai iced tea 

After several speeches the food was served. At least a dozen stalls were set up outside in the kindergarten canteen area and around the school swimming pool serving everything from fried oysters to noodles to the ubiquitous orange Thai iced tea. While everyone was eating and having a good time, some teachers and students put on a song and dance show that ended with the YMCA before we all went home.