We made it through the first week!!!! Orphanage this morning for a few hours! The babies were lively as were the toddlers and older children. Today was cleaning day – all the laundry was being done, mats cleaned, cribs aired out, floors cleaned, etc. So, since the beds were mostly outside, there were lots of babies to cuddle! We took 2 new walkers for the babies so they got used. The babies love them. Also took some out for sunshine again. My favorite, Tuan (Baby Buddha) fell asleep in my arms with my cool towel on his neck and back. So cuddly!!

A great lunch back at the house – fish burgers – FABULOUS!!! Then she brings out Vietnamese Ice Cream – it’s the same consistency of a gelato/sherbert. It is a berry flavor and wonderful!!

Now – for my first motorbike ride!!! Had some shopping to do for the orphanage so Ms. Hahn took me out – she is the best barterer around!!!! The children needed some clothes for their Thursday dress up day, I needed some craft items for some of my classes, we needed massage oil for the disabled children, and I got some fabric to take to Ms. Hahn’s friend and a dress will be ready tomorrow!! Now – I purchased 4 outfits for dress up, approx. 5 yards of fabric for capes, some supplies to have at the house and also to put into my gifts to the children upon my departure, 8 hats for dress up, 2 pairs of long socks for dress up, a small bottle of baby oil – and I spent a total of $55.00 US. The motorbike ride was not bad at all – she can scoot through all the organized chaos very well!! It’s not a quiet ride – horns everywhere – but no road rage at all!! Everybody knows their place and where everyone else is most likely going!!!

A wonderful dinner of chicken rice and vegetables – followed by more fresh mango!!!

Over the last few months I have been communicating via e-mail with a young man from Tam Ky. He is 24 years old and is a teacher at the University here in Tam Ky. His name is Vantin Doan (Tin) and he came by the house tonight and we went next door and had coffee. He is one of so many people here who want to practice their English. He has a pretty good grasp of the language and didn’t slip up on too many words. Will practice with him again along with Amber who’s going to be here for 4 months with GVN and she’s closer to his age! His job teaching tourism to approximately 150 students – several classes per day – pays him $90 US per month. He is not only responsible for himself but also for his younger sister and his parents. His parents live in the mountains outside of Tam Ky and do grow some rice but it doesn’t bring in enough money for the family. All this is very common here.

Went on a bike ride tonight through Tam Ky. Amber was the leader and kept us from getting lost. It was very refreshing and enjoyable to see a little more of the town!!! There are not pictures with this blog as the computer seems to be acting up ad not letting me get to them!!!

Have a great weekend and always be grateful for all you have – you have soooooo much.