Guess who…
February 19, 2009
i know, the black hair makes it confusing
I just had to put these on here, because I think they are so amusing. Back in December, my friend Tik and I decided to try out one of the many photo studios. It seems to be a popular pasttime of Lao girls to go get pictures taken like this, and Tik had never done it, so we got brave and checked it out. It was great fun, but I just have to say it: the makeup was obscene. I don’t think I’ve EVER worn that much makeup, not even stage makeup for plays in high school. It was actually really scary, because I took pictures of myself when I got home, and I looked like Britney Spears. Not cool.
me in a Lao wedding dress and Tik in a more modern outfit. (both of us in crazy heels)
The black hair thing is interesting too. I didn’t understand most of what the hair stylist was saying, so when she pulled out a spray can and pointed to the knot of fake hair I was going to wear, I thought maybe she was going to spray paint that. But no, she definitely sprayed ME. After that, I didn’t even recognize myself in the mirror.
very polite Lao girl
Just a side note: that outfit didn’t actually fit me. They very resourcefully strapped on the shirt with rubber bands and covered up the problem areas with the scarf. Lao girls really are that small. Being the shortest one in a group of friends and feeling thin is a thing of the past. On the other hand, I feel so powerful actually being taller than some people. 
Plus, I’m grateful to not stick out in yet ANOTHER obvious way–it’s nice to fit in a little bit.
I do like taking pictures of myself (though not as much as certain friends of mine), but mainly this was fun because it was with Tik. She used to be my Lao teacher, but even though I’m not studying with her anymore, she has become a really great friend–someone I can really talk to, which is such a blessing. She’s also (not surprisingly) the person whose Lao I understand the best (and she has practice trying to understand people’s attempts at Lao), so I’ve had some of my best and deepest conversations in Lao with her.
haha, I totally knew it was you!! But it IS surprising! The pictures are beautiful, though!!! Seriously, I love that first one. You might have to give me a copy. It sounds like so much fun!!! I’m glad you have a friend to do stuff like that with.
I’m ALSO glad you updated! I miss you!
Hey, Sis!
That’s incredible! I opened your page and just saw the hair–and wondered, “Can this really be Ariel?” That’s quite impressive. The makeup is also ridiculous–is the photo really not airbrushed at all? That said, you look lovely and I really like the pictures. It’s fascinating to see you in Laotian understanding of beauty, since you’re very beautiful yo self.
Oh, and I’m assuming the hair spray is temporary…
I love you and plan to respond to your wonderfully-massive email over break (in two days!). Thanks for taking the time to email me!
patrick
MISS ARIEL! YOU LOOK GORGEOUS GIRL!!! I don’t know why but that seemed to call for all caps.
I love seeing your updates on facebook and here.
I love seeing and reading about your life across the world.
You are always in my thoughts and prayers.
Seriously, how many Jess-s are there running around here?
To echo the words of everyone else thus far- you do look fantastic. I would post counter-glamor pics, but so far nobody has offered to help me with the arduous hours-long process of getting into a dress kimono, so I shall have to remain unglamorous for now.
Also a note on the post above above (why split comments?)- I think it’s great that you’re getting to teach and that you’re enjoying myself! I completely sympathize with the “not seeing myself as a teacher bit”- It’s a surreal transformation, I think, but if your photos are any indicator, you’re having a great time at it.
cheers!
jess