Kevin in Vietnam

News about our new Blog.

2008-04-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

Hello all, I have started a new blog to chart Uyen's life and times in America. You can view it at the following address. We hope to post three to four times a week. Chao.

www.uyeninusa.blogspot.com

End of Chapter 3

2008-04-19T15:52:00.001-07:00

The ending of another awesome visit to Vietnam and the begining of a new life's journey. The bolg will continue to follow Uyen's adventures in America.

Mom, Dad, & Sisters seeing us off.
More of the gang at the airport.
The surprise going away party at Uncle Son's home. I can't believe my knees held out from sitting cross legged.

Making final prep for our fiest.
Most of the group traveled three hours to join us for this special treat. I was truly honored!

Wow, What a send off !

2008-04-18T06:23:00.000-07:00

Uyen advised me that we needed to stop by her Uncle's home before going to the airport because her mom and dad are coming down from Dong Nai to see us off. It turned out to be a huge gathering of family from all over the area, ( most were at the engagement party). We sat on the floor of Uncle Son's dining area and enjoyed a four course lunch. The love that has been shown to me by these wonderful people cannot be put into words. I am writing this post from the EVA Airlines Lounge in Taipei, while we wait for our connection to Seattle. I have some great shots of the going away party, and I will post them after the jet lag is past.

Preparing for the long trip home

2008-04-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

The last couple of days have mainly consisted of handling all the moving details for Uyen. Today she is running around town on her motorbike, picking up and dropping off papers. She will stop by the US Consulate this afternoon to pick up the hard copy of her Visa and we should be completely ready to go on Friday. Uyen's parents and a few other relatives plan to see us off and I plan to get some pictures of them all. I am somewhat concerned about the weather forecast in Seattle. It looks like we will have 37 degrees and rain when we land. Oh well, I'm sure she will tough it out. After the last two weeks of 90+ temps., I'm the one that may not fair to well. Chao.

Quiet Monday

2008-04-14T02:25:00.000-07:00

Went swimming first thing Monday morning and for a change, we had the pool to our self. Last night I visited Bill Seeberger's family. We ate another wonderful meal and talked about past times, even though they are not so distant. The twins in the first row are four years old and are bound to be Sumo wrestlers by the time they are ten. Back to Monday. We found a super market and purchased some spices, teas, and a few other items that we may not find in the US. We plan to swim again this afternoon, just call her Uyen Spitz.

Sunday morning

2008-04-12T19:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a shot from my first visit. I will be joing these folks, (and others of the family), later today for Sunday dinner.

I woke up at 5:00 am to watch the last hour or so of Saturdays round of the Masters. It looks like I will be up even earlier Monday because the tourney is looking pretty exciting. Coverage begins at 2:00 am. This morning, Uyen and a couple of her friends are preparing to move the things from her apartment to her brothers place. I offered to help but she said it would be to hot. Later this afternoon, I plan to visit Bill Seeburger's in laws and join them for Sunday dinner. Those of you that have followed this log will remember them from my first visit to Vietnam in March 07.

For those of you that are new to my blog, you can view pictures and comments of all three trips that I have made. At the bottom of each post is a "older posts" option. Just click that and it will take you back. Also, the first post that you see is the most recent.

Visa party with family

2008-04-12T06:33:00.000-07:00

Friday found us on a nice bus bound once again for the family home in Dong Nai. A wonderful dinner, hand shakes, hugs, and conversation for those that speak the language. Uyen's dad and I however, had another wonderful conversation. His English is getting better and better. He spoke English when he consulted our troops near the end of the war and he told me that I am the first person he has even tried to speak to in over thirty years. We have become great friends. I was honored with a invitation to sleep in their home that night and our plan is to return Sat. afternoon.

Woke up Sat. morning to the sound of chickens, dogs, motorbike horns, and truckers that have a on going compitition to see who has the loudest horn. It's enough to shake you right out the bed. Pictures of the return follow. Chao

Pictures of return from Dong Nai

2008-04-12T06:13:00.000-07:00

After our visit with family again in Dong Nai, we hired a car and driver / ride share for the trip back to Saigon. We stopped at this little rest stop which is a whole lot different that the rest stops in the US. These have hamocks in case you want to take a snooze, along with refreshments and the like. It had to happen sooner than later. Ive commented before about the crazy but somewhat organized driving in this country. Until today, I had not seen a accident and this one was a doozy! A car like the one we are in hit at least three motorbikes head on and I think the guy in the middle of the picture didn't make it. Every just standing around looking. Our driver just kept on going. Sad.

This is the ride share that Uyen lined up. There were eight of us in this little SUV and the driver actually trided to take on two additional passengers. No WAY.

WOOHOO She's coming home with me!

2008-04-10T01:04:00.000-07:00

Aunt Hue meets us across from the Consulate to cogratulate us. She was a great help in all of this. What a great friend and future family member.
I took this shot from the front entrance to theUS Consulate. The people are waiting for applicants to come out from their interviews.

After ten months of filling out forms, sending letters, and working with the consultant, we have succeded in getting a Visa for Uyen. The final hurdle was the interview that we had heard can be quite intimidating. During this process, I did not leave one stone unturned. What information they wanted they received and then some. Well, she went in for the private interview with the immigration officer and she was loaded for bear. Fiveteen minutes later she walked out with a Visa authorization! Unbelievable ! We expected that she would be asked alot of questions regarding our relationship and would want to see proof that I have traveled to Vietnam in the past. Nope, he asked three questions and the toughest was "What is the make of your fiance's car?" He didn't even look at the 100 + photos she presented. The plan now is to visit her family in Dong Nai again to say our goodbyes. Then we will fly to Seatle a week from Friday.

Wednesday - Interview Prep

2008-04-09T05:46:00.000-07:00

Very relaxing morning until stepping outside into a blast furnace! Whoh, this is the hottest and most humid day so far. The weatherman said is was 95 with a "real feel" of 105. What made things worse was that we had a meeting at the lady's house that has helped Uyen with all the paperwork for Thursday's interview and her power was out!!! Open the persperation flood gates. Now how bout this program for Thursday. We depart for the Consulate at 6:30 AM and find a spot in line out in front with all the other hopeful immigrants. I plan to tell the officer that I am a past president of Twin Lakes Golf & Country Club. I'm sure we will be moved to the top of the line. Well here goes!

Comments about Tuesday

2008-04-08T19:14:00.000-07:00

Came across this Greek godess, so I thought would take a photo of a Vietnamese godess with her.

Yesterday, we decided shop for a few friends back home and we decided try the local bus system just for a change. The traffic here seems to be in constant caos but everybody get's to where they want to be.
We walked along a number of streets breathing the fumes from the busses, trucks, and moter bikes. Last night I felt like I was coming down with a cold, but now I think it was the air. Good luck to the folks in Bejing.

Shopping Day

2008-04-07T18:07:00.000-07:00

As I write this, Uyen is at her second swimming lesson. We plan to do some shopping today for a couple friends at home. One of my friends owns a Vietnamese cafe near my office and so we will pick up a few things that they can't find in the US. Tonight, we will join some of Uyen's friends and sing Kareoke.

Swimming Lesson

2008-04-07T06:22:00.000-07:00

This is the 12 person Mercedes bus that 15 of us rode in to Dong Nai. It just as well could have been a John Deere given the suspension it had. But, for $60 all inclusive including our driver for the entire day, we didn't complain.
Uyen's first swim lesson with someone that speaks Vietnamese. She loves the water.

After a somewhat casual day on Monday, we walked over to the pool so I could swim some laps. There happened to be a swim teacher there and I signed Uyen up since while she and I communicate quite well, I have a hard time expressing how to kick the right way etc.

Monday

2008-04-07T02:27:00.000-07:00

Today we went to meet with the person I hired to help Uyen with the paperwork that she will take to the US Consulate. Her interview for Visa is Thursday at 8:00. Other than that, the afternoon was spent catching up and just relaxing.

Engagement Party - comments

2008-04-07T01:31:00.000-07:00

Wow what an experience ! What I thought would be a gathering of six or seven people turned out to be about 40 ! As a reminder when reading this blog, the most recent picture shows up on the screen first, so it's a good idea to scroll down and read your way back up. Uyen has a very loving family and they have accepted me with the likes that I could have never expected. Now the job at hand is to obtain her Visa from the US Consulate. I believe we are prepared. More later.

The Engagement Party

2008-04-07T00:57:00.001-07:00

As you can see here and in other pictures, Dad and I have hit it off wonderfuly.
The women and men sat at different tables but Uyen stayed with me.

Picture with Mom and Dad

Isn't she a doll !
This is a shot of just part of the group

Nice shot with grand parents

Praying at the alter, asking for permission from ancestors

Uncle preparing special candles
Here comes the future bride !

Gifts are covered until the festivities begin. They consisted of fresh local fruit and a set of special candles
Parents and Uncle are setting up the gifts.

Two beautiful cakes for us.
This was posted on the wall in the living room.

Day Two cont.

2008-04-05T04:19:00.000-07:00

I have noticed that I acclimate much easier now after three trips. We traveled to the home of one of Bill Seeberger's in laws home. On my first visit, we spent a lot of time with them and I posted pictures of the whole family. A few pics of them follow later. From there we went looking for a "Aui Dai" for me to wear at the engagement party. As expected, they were too tight around my chest, ( maybe I am working out too much). So it looks like I will be wearing my suit that I brought just in case. We visited yet another Uncle this afternoon and had yet another home cooked meal. From the sounds of things, there could be close to fifty family members attending the traditional engagement party. I'm starting to get a little nervous. A driver will pick a group of us up at 5:30 AM and head out on a 2 1/2 hr. drive. Let the fun begin.

Day Two

2008-04-04T18:29:00.000-07:00

A beautiful and probably another hot day. Should be about 94 and feel like 103. We plan to meet with a lady that we hired to help Uyen correctly fill out all of the papers for her Visa interview. I plan to make sure all of her ducks are in a row. After that, we will visit Bill's relatives and deliver some items I brought for him. Tomorrow is the big engagement party and we will meet our driver at 5:30 AM to drive to Dong Nai. We did not have enough time to be fitted in a man's "Au Dai", so I brought a coat and tie for the event.

Saigon Safe and Sound

2008-04-04T17:56:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of Uncle Loahn's home, taken from the ally, not street where they live. At the house they work as a tailer and sell Mango's when they are in season, which is now. Delicious!
We visited foe a while at their house and then mounted moter bikes for a local eatery. We had three to a bike and we took a very interesting route through a part of the city I had never seen before. The place was humming with people.
Each table is supplied with a butane burner and everybody cooks theif food at the table. That' Loahn sterring the pot.
I have said before that the food in this country is awsome and I have tried everything that has been served to me, even the above brains and heart. It was OK. I doubt that it will show up on the menu at Twin Lakes very soon!

Had a very uneventful 13 hr.flight to Taiwan, and another 3 1/2 hr. to Saigon. Checked in to my hotel and made plans for the rest of the day. We will visit Uyen's Uncle and family that I have not met. We will dine with them at popular local family joint. Here ar some pics of the first day.

Counting down the days for visit #3

2008-03-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

On April 3rd at 1:50am, I begin the most important visit of them all. Big plans lay ahead starting Sunday the 6th. We will travel again to Uyen's parents home where we will participate in a traditional Vietnamese Engagement party. Both Uyen and me will wear traditional gowns called an au dai. We plan to post lot's of pictures. Stay tuned.

Update on Uyen

2007-12-20T14:17:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, I have filed papers for Uyen to receive a Visa. It's a very tedious
and long process with our government. I sent the original information to Homeland Security back in June. They finally approved it and forwarded the petition to the US Consculate in Saigon. Sometime after they receive it, they will contact Uyen and set an appointment for a interview. After the interview and after review of all the paperwork I sent, they will hopefuly approve and give her the Visa. I plan to bring her to Seattle soon after she received the Visa.

2007-11-01T09:21:00.000-07:00

Uyen, seeing me off at the Saigon Airport

Going Home- Reluctantly

2007-10-31T06:39:00.000-07:00

I think I said in last the post last March that I had died and gone to heaven. Well. I'm the living example that a body can die and go to heaven twice ! I am waiting at the boarding area in Taipei, and will comment on a few things about my journey. First, real men don't ask directions so, when we travel around Saigon, I ask Uyen and she see's to it that we get to our destination . I mentioned that I extended my trip by one day when I found out that Uyen didn't have to report to work until Thurs. Turns out that I am very lucky that she was able to take two weeks of holiday to be with me. Well, my hotel was over booked and I was invited to stay at Aunt Hue's house, complete with another home cooked meal. OK pinch me one more time! More pic's when I'm at my desk in Seattle,

Around Saigon

2007-10-29T02:11:00.000-07:00

Chinese emporer prior to the French occupation.

Dinner with Uyen's brother and aunt. Her sister would join us later.

Government offices. In front is a huge statue of Ho Chi Minh

Notre Dame Cathedral

Siagon Opera House. Very close to my hotel.

In the last few days that I have on this glorious trip, I have taken some shots of a few places that I missed on my first trip, along with pics of dinner with Aunt Hue, brother Duy, and sister Loan. I extended my stay another day when I found out that Uyen doesn't have to be back to work until Thursday. I have a long layover in Taiwan on Wednesday and will have time to wrap this log up.

Various comments and pics

2007-10-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Saigon on Friday afternoon to a down pour of rain. Taxi to my hotel, and time to catch up on the blog. Dinner at my favorite VN restaurant and a reasonably early bed time. I plan to take Uyen 's aunt and brother to a bufett dinner at the Carevelle Hotel. I remember this from my visit last March. A unbelievable selection of meat, seafood, salads, and deserts. My blog is close to being caught up, and I have to say it's fun producing it. More to come!

2007-10-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

See you next time Phu Quoc.

Last shot before leaving for the airport.

Uyen navigating the ruts. Remember, it's still the rainy season.

Our journey to the North end of the island ended at this fishing village. Uyen was driving and insisted that I walk across this bridge since she is not experienced driving with a 200 lb gorilla behind her.

Found a little fishing village with a long pier. We drove out for a photo op. Is that Dennis Hopper? Or is it Peter Fonda? Wait!! It is Peter Fonda looking for his sister.

The pot you see is fired with aromatic wood covered with a thin grill. Prawns marinated in oil and chili are grilled at our table. How bout that coconut milk drink that Uyen has on her right!

OK, no more depressing stuff. We happened to drive to a seaside picnic / restaurant on the beach. Each cabana had a table and hammock.

Guard tower, I wonder if the Vietnamese had their version of Col. Clink

Inside the prisoners sleeping area.

The cage behind me is all barbed wire and when disciplinary action was taken, the prisoner had to crawl in to the round portion. Couldn't stand or lay down.

We happened upon a restored prisoner of war camp that had very few descriptions in English. I assume that the VN army in the South were holding Viet Cong.

This is the local high school gang. I'm not sure if they are bloods or crips.

I have not mentioned before that people are interned above ground much like New Orleans. The difference here is, that you will find burial sites in all kinds of random spots. How bout this for a internment with a view!

Continuing our trek South, we passed this shanty which is right on the beach. These people are fishermen and will live here until development pushes them out.

Stopped for lunch on our trip South. This shot is taken from our table were the cook is taking delivery of fresh squid, fish, and produce from a delivery lady. That's our bike on the left.

Time to hit the road. In more ways than one.

OK, here we go, renting a new motor bike for for a whopping $10 a day! Today we travel South, tomorrow to the North.

We are crossing a bridge to the central part of town. Notice the motor bikes on the left? I actually drove across that and other bridges on our rented bike.

Photos from Phu Quoc

2007-10-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

I have spoken a lot about this wonderful place, so now you can see some of it. We had dinner on our last night at a place managed by a Aussie couple. I asked about all of the open land around the beaches and he indicated that most of the prime land has already been purchased by developers. He said that Phu Qouc is like Bali was forty years ago. Five star resorts are planned and this quiet little paradise won't be the same in about ten years. If you get a chance to visit, do it sooner rather than later. I hope to return real soon.

Pictures At Last !

2007-10-26T03:31:00.000-07:00

Mother and daughter

Photo from entry to home. Uncle on left. Father with grandchild, Uyen, mother, Aunt, Grandma, big sister, little sister and me. Remember, everyone is smaller than me so that makes me look bigger than I really am!

Four generation picture. Older sister on left with baby, mother, Uyen, Aunt Hue, younger sister, & grandmother

Sitting down for Sunday dinner with Uyen's family. Directly across from me is grandmother. On grandmothers right is Uyen's mother. Grandpa is on the far right.

The bad news is, I'm not in Phu Quoc but the good news is I think I can now up-load some shots taken over the last few days since the speed in my Siagon hotel is much better.

Easy Rider in Vietnam

2007-10-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

After our morning swim yesterday, we set off on our motorcycle to explore the south end of the island. Uyen's only mode of transportation is by motor bike but she let me drive most of the way. What an experience driving among these people! I had everything totally under control until two bike pulled out from a side alley and I had to dump the bike to keep from hitting them. Just a couple scrapes. Traveling through the small villages was a blast. These people are dirt poor and happy. We happened upon a prisoner of war camp that was closed in 1968. There were very few descriptive signs in English, but I got the clear impression that it was to hold the Viet Cong prisoners. Pictures of that will follow along with all the others. Last evening consisted of another swimming lesson,(she can float on her back for three minutes!). Today, we travel to the North end and buy the way, did I say that Phu Quoc lies directly South of Cambodia? I think there is a golf course up there and I plan to apply for a teaching pro position. I thought about selling fishing tackle but all they use are cane poles or nets. Just kidding, although the thought has crossed my mind a few times.

The paridise island of Phu Quoc

2007-10-23T17:48:00.000-07:00

Monday morning, we took a hour flight to Phu Quoc, pronounced "fu wuk". The resort picked us up and we immediately went for a swim. Later we found a terrific local Vietnamese diner and chowed down on seafood. This is the seafood capitol of Vietnam especially known for their shrimp and squid of which I have already consumed vast quantities. Tuesday morning found us back in the South China Sea teaching Uyen how to swim. Then a stroll into the village for more seafood. The island reminds me a little like Maui except that Phu Quoc is such a better value. We rented a new motor bike for $10 a day and plan to explore the entire island over the next few days. Every day just keeps on getting better and better. Sorry that the pictures have to wait until we get back to Saigon because the wireless at this hotel just can't handle the uploads. Well, I'm going top "Get my motor Runnin" and head out on the highway. Later

Meet The Family

2007-10-22T23:23:00.000-07:00

Early Sunday morning Uyen's aunt picked me up for a drive to the province of Dong Nai. On the way we picked up her uncle. The trip of only 100km, (about 80 miles), took close to three hours. We arrived at the small village that Uyen's,parents, sister,and grandmother live. Uyen's aunt speaks very good English and translated what turned out to be about a forty minute conversation with mother and father. After that, we sat down with the whole family for Sunday dinner. Uyen's family moved to Dong Nai from central Vietnam after the war ended, or as the commies would put it, "Liberation". There is a strong Christian presence with churchs everywere. The churchs we passed that were holding service were packed to overflowing. I took a number of photos but the low speed connection I have, is having problems up-loading the shots so, I may have to wait till we get back to Saigon on Thursday to do that. I am writing from our hotel in Phu Quoc and we have just returned from a long swim in the warm S. China Sea and a walk to the town for breakfast. This is absolute paradise!

Catching Up

2007-10-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

A couple things have caused me to get a little behind on posting comments. First is , I'm having so much fun and so little time to sit at the laptop. Second, I have some issues with the internet when I have had the time. Sunday morning Uyen and I joined her aunt and uncle for a three hour drive NE o fSaigon to a province called Dong Nai to meet her family for lunch. Uyen's Aunt Hue speaks great English and was mt lifeline when meeting Uyen's parents. We had a very nice conversation and after that sat down for lunch. Some family photos follow shortly.

Saturday

2007-10-19T20:38:00.000-07:00

We are going to try a get tickets to the opera tonight. Uyen has never seen an opera or an orchestra for that matter. For those of you that are reading this, remember that the latest post shows up first, so you need to scroll down and work your way up.

Mekong River Delta

2007-10-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

On the bus ride home, Uyen took this shot. The tour today starten at 8:30 AM and we returned back to Saigon at around 6:30PM. Our tour guide said that there are about 10 million people in Saigon and I swear I saw most of them on our ride back. The tour included lunch and cost a wopping $16 for both of us!

Uyen thought we were going a little slow,so she picked up a paddle and helped.

The row boat ride was one of the highlights of the day

After visiting the bee farm, we walked through the forest to this canal were we boarded these row boats. I think this is the area that John Kerry self inflicted his wound on his swift boat.

Our taxi driver, Homer

We took a walk through the dense forest to a small village and boarded horse drawn taxi's for a one mile ride to a bee farm. Tha's Uyen with the hat.

Interesting music but if they had CD's available, I don't think I would buy one.

. Back on the river boat, we are cruising to our next stop to see a performance of traditional Vietnamese music.

We were served lunch then of to see more of the island

Our first stop at the island was to visit a factory that manufactures all kinds products from coconut wood. This ie Uyen crossing a small wooden bridge.

Sorry about being a little behind. had some internet issues last night. Friday we traveled by bus to Mekong City, then we boarded a small tour boat and headed accross the Mekong River to a island that is known for it's many coconut trees. Here are some pics and comments.

Couple quiet days before fireworks start

2007-10-18T03:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday and today were somewhat subdued but terrific fun. Had lunch yesterday with Tam's family and dinner last night with Uyen and her Aunt, Hue Thieu, at a wonderful seafood restaurant called Ngoc Suong, that we visited last time I was here. Today,Uyen and I had lunch and shopped for a little coffee maker. The coffee in Vietnam is so strong and I can't handle caffein so I brought my own from home. I continue to be amazed at the wonderful flavers in the Vietnamese food. Tonight is Chinese food with Uyen's friend Linh who is pictured in a earlier post. Now...starting in the morning the shutter on my camera will start heating up. We leave early for a tour of the Mekong Delta. I'm ready to get out of town and see some new sites. Sunday we travel to Dong Nai to visit Uyen's family. Aunt Hue will ride up with us and be my interpreter. Next Monday through Thursday should be the highlight. A beautiful resort island called Phu Quoc. We take a 45 min. flight early Monday. Can't wait! Stay tuned.

Eighteen Hours later

2007-10-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

Arrived VN on time, to a newly built airport terminal. Cleared customs and retreived my bags in lightning time. This is a sign of what is yet to come! Uyen and a friend picked me up and took another infamous taxi ride to downtown Saigon. The more I watch the way people drive in this country the more I think it would work for other countries. Everybody has a place to go, and respects all others around them. Stop signs, forget it. Traffic lights, whats that? U turn? Anytime and anywere you want. In March , I said this was orginized chaos. I am now a truebeliever that it works, and may even entertain renting a moterbike and cruising the highway. Uyen's bike is to small for two people, so we may rent a larger one and I will let her drive! Lot's of commentary, no pic's? The reason is that most everything I saw today has already been posted except this pic of Uyen wearning the traditional Ouyie dress. Stay tuned.

Here I Go Again

2007-10-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

I am at my office at 10:00 PM wrapping a few things up. At around 11:30 a cab will pick me up and go to the airport for my 1:50 AM departure to Taipei, Taiwan. I will have a two hour layover and then a three hour flight to Saigon. Uyen and friends plan to pick me up at the airport. I hope now that I can sleep on this flight as well as I did on the trip last March. I plan to post lot's of photos. Also for those of you that can access Google Earth, try looking up an island called Phu Quoc. We plan to travel there for about six days.

Goodbye Vietnam..For Now

2007-03-30T22:40:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are waiting in Taipei for our connection. The painting behind Bill, seemed very fitting, given the fact that he carried a cute pink bag. I was concerned that he would be hit on by some studs. He finally put the bag away. Whew ! What a savage ! In the next few day's, I will try to wrap up this wonderful experience into as few words as possible. Stay Tuned !

Taipei Airport..is there a Starbuck's here ?

Here is the gang that saw us off at the Saigon Airport. Some hugs and some tears,and we were off to Taipei. Oh, buy the way, we were upgraded to first class on the first leg. The ladies are preparing me to go out and harvest some rice for lunch.

Bill with our favorite hotel crew. They took great care of us!

One day left..Do I have to go home?

2007-03-29T01:16:00.000-07:00

Today is Thursday and we return home Friday afternoon. We plan to join the family this evening for a going away party. I really hate to see this end. It has been without a doubt, the most exciting two weeks I have ever had. I will come back in a heartbeat. I plan to download the pictures from Bill's camera and will post a number of his shots. Chao

Winding Down

2007-03-29T00:45:00.000-07:00

Is this living large or what! Great buffet at The Caravelle Hotel. More info below.

Assorted snails and clams that they steam or grill for you.

I have never seen a buffet like this in my life! Here is a whole lamb. The buffet also offered sashimi, sushi, four different types of clams and snails, oysters raw and baked, three different crabs, the largest shrimp I have ever seen, rack of lamb, baked tenderloin, Peking Duck, 25 different salads, and a great assortment of deserts. Our second to the last night in paradise, so we decided to splurge and have dinner at The Caravelle Hotel, which is one of the five star hotels in downtown Saigon.

The four of us stopped by the huge market again, to wheel and deal on various things. Rolex's sell for $24.

After another home cooked lunch at Ha's house, the three sisters and a few of the kids kick back and talk or take a nap. Their dinner table folds up and is moved away to make room. The boys sleep here on the floor at night.

Assorted Shot's

2007-03-26T04:13:00.000-07:00

A few day's ago, I took the chance and was a passenger on one of these.

Back at Hoan's house. Remember, he is selling his beautiful home for $25,000

Here I am at the Internet Cafe when I could not get a signal from the hotel.

Oanh taking Khane to school. Most Asain's cover themself's from head to toe so as not to get dark. It's amazing how fast we got red at the beach on Sunday.

Here the selection from the roadside stand. See the eggs on the left? They are duck eggs that have been harvested just prior to hatching. In other words, the embryo. Had to try one..tasted good, looked bad. Sitting out on the street waiting for baked clams . That's Dat on the left.

Huge market with everything you can imagine from clothes, to fresh Squid.

Laid Back Monday

2007-03-26T03:54:00.000-07:00

Slept in, posted the beach photo's, lunch at Ha's, a little shopping downtown. This is the first day that I can say, did not surpass the previous day. On the next post, I will send some misc. shot's of such things as sitting on a busy thoroughfare eating some of the best clams I have ever eaten from a little portable eatery. I will caption each shot as before. Also, Bill and I plan to combine his pictures with mine and create a CD of the complete trip.

Let's Go Surfin Now

2007-03-25T18:42:00.000-07:00

A little something to eat and drink,then the trip home.Check out these three year twins. It's their first time at the ocean and it was a riot watching them. They are destined to be Sumo Wrestlers

The rowdy folks next to us singing and having fun.

Bathing beauty

Uyen, says that she can't swim , so I guess she is going to get a lesson.

Setting up camp and getting the kid's in their suits.

What a nice facility. The beach looked like it is three miles long and packed with family's.

Gathering at Ha's house at 6:00 AM for our two hour drive to Vung Tau which is on the southern coast. We hired a minibus to take 23 of the family for a picnic and frolic in the waves.

Comments

2007-03-23T19:12:00.000-07:00

I have been remiss in not telling you about the part of the country we were in to see grandma and the Pagodas. We traveled northwest about 100km (three hours),through a province called, Tay Ninh. Grandma's province is called Tan Chau. I thought life in Mexico was laid back, but this even more so. They work hard and know how to have fun. Everything is so incredibly inexpensive here. We travel across town to Tam's each day by Taxi...$4.00. Dinner for four and a private kareoke room $29.00. Tam's uncle Hoan want's to build a house closer to the beach and is selling his home for $25,000. This is the home we went to for Sunday brunch. Another misc. item. I got my first ride on a moter bike in this unbelievable caos and it was a blast. Today is Sat. and we plan to chill out. On Sunday, the whole family will go to the beach which is southeast of Saigon. More pic's to follow.

Pagodas and Temples

2007-03-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

To reach this Pagoda, we took a fiveteen minute gondola ride up a steep mountain. One of my favorites.

Prayer sevices are going on at all times.

The huge round ball at the end of the hall is an EYE. Kind of spooky.

One of the most famous temples in Vietnam. We are standing to the right. Only men can enter at the right and women only in the center.

More From Central Vietman

2007-03-23T10:09:00.000-07:00

Harvesting Coconut's. After, we drank the fresh milk.

Kevin working on the farm? NOT! These are roots that the family sustained themself's on for over a year.

This is Hoan & Thoa's little girl, Danie

Up Country Comments

2007-03-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have been following this, you know that I have had issues with a consistent signal on the net and have had a number of times that my post is knocked off when we loose the signal. We traveled north to the Tan Chau Province which is about 100km from Saigon. The driver we hired charged us a whopping $80 to transport 11 people, stay with us the whole day, and return us to Saigon. The following post's will consist of our visit to some Pagodas (Buddhist Temples), that are near where grandma lives.

"Goin Up Country" Steve Miller Band 1973

2007-03-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

Road trip to the lake on the family limo. Am I lovin this or what!

Anyone need to use the restroom?

After lunch, some of the women process cashew nuts from the number of trees on grandma's land. They sell them to the local markets. We had a chance to roast some right there..Wow

The men at one end of the table and the women at the other. Not unlike what happen's at home. Gas stove? Forget it! Our meal was cooked using a very aromatic wood.

Arrived at grandma's house to find the family prepping a meal for over sixteen people.

To Grandmother's House We Go

2007-03-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, we hired a driver to take ten of us north to have lunch with grandma and other family members. The van is on the right and this is the road that leads to her house.

Day Five And Still Alive

2007-03-20T01:08:00.000-07:00

Here is a shot of the street / alley that Ha's family lives on. There are thousands of alley's like this around Saigon. People roll their moter bikes into their homes at night.

Dinner cruise on the Saigon River. More fantastic food and weather.

Bill enjoying a cup of Vietnamese coffee. Way to strong for me. I'm a decaf drinker and the people don't even know what decaf is. Believe it or not, this is a little cafe that is directly next door to Ha's home were we are eating lunch every day. Today's lunch was chicken curry, veggies, and fried rice. mmmmmmmm

Today is a lay back, relax, and get ready for the road trip to meet grandmother. We have contracted for a driver to take us out into the countryside. Ha and Hong will be joining us as well. We leave at 6:30AM and return quite late in the day, the post and pictures will follow.

Pictures, cont.

2007-03-19T03:33:00.000-07:00

Always cover your mouth when picking your teeth !

The Rex Hotel Garden Balcony. Check out the giant snails in the center.

Uyen and her friend, Linh. The three of us had dinner at this wonderful Fish House. The fish was as good as any I have had. But get this, the bill came to $29.00 for the three of us ! The same meal at Anthony's would be over $150.

More Pictures - I hope

2007-03-19T03:15:00.000-07:00

Eating my rice like I know what I'm doing.

Three brother's in law. On left - Ha Center - Huong Right - Hoan

Sunday brunch at Bill's sister in law's home . Her husband, Hoan, built the home himself.

Can it get any better than this ?

2007-03-18T23:40:00.000-07:00

chao vietnam den moi nguoi va chuc mot ngay tot lanh.

I am writing this post from one of the many Internet Cafe's, since the service at our hotel is still very poor. Sunday found us at Bill's sister in law's home for Sunday brunch. Vietnamese crepes, (omelets wrapped with exotic leaves), spring rolls, and shimp fried rice. Later in the evening, we went to the Rex Hotel for stuffed giant snails other exotic snacks. Today is Monday and once again, lunch at Ha's house. There is no question that I have been accepted into the family. As most of you already know, I use the word "unbelievable" a lot. Well,I have broken all records already. This is truly unbelievable getting to experience a country like this the way we are. We have alot more pics to up load and will do so as soon asI get a strong signal.

Later this week we travel north to visit Tam's grandmother. We also will visit a famous Buddahst Temple the sits atop a mountain. We also plan to go to the beach this week and sometime this week, Bill andI will be looking for property to build a winter home lol. Stay tuned.

Good Morning Vietnam !

2007-03-17T01:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I finaly have a good and fast connection and am able to up-load some pictures. For some reason, this blog places every new post at the top so what you see is the most recent. The best way to follow this is to scroll down to the end and work your way up. Had lunch at the relatives again this afternoon what great food !

Lot's of pic's

2007-03-17T00:29:00.000-07:00

Bill with Tam and Uyen after singing.

Tam and Uyen singing Karaoke in our private room. Wow, what great acoustics's and sound system

Men gather to play a Chinese/ Vietnamese board game. This pic is taken from inside the relatives house.

French Guillotine, (in what was part of the Saigon prison. That's Tam on the right.

We visited the War Museum. Lot's of pictures and relics, mostly leaning to the commie way of thinking.

The power went out as is usually does, so Uyen kept me cool with a fan. Notice the motor bike that is behind her. The bike is parked in their neighbor across the eight foot wide alley.

This shot is at our first meal. We are pigging out big time!

This is the kitchen that Bill's brother and sister in law live. Nine people live in this house. Bill', bro in law is on the right and sister in law in the middle. We have

already had three great home cooked meals there.

Above are a few of the gang that are treating us like kings.

Pic's (still trying)

2007-03-16T11:22:00.000-07:00

I have to remind myself that Vietnam is still considered by most as a third world country. But, this pic did go through. not a bad seat aye? I slept for close to nine solid hours.

Pic's Take Two

2007-03-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

Well here we go. Great seats with hope of sleeping for most of the flight.

Day Three

2007-03-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

After consistent problems staying attached to the web, I decided to tell those of you that are looking at this, that the pic's may not arrive on this site until I get back home. I am, however going to keep trying to upload some fun shots that have been taken over the last two days. This adventure continues to become more than I could have dreamed. Today, Bill and Tam, ( you will get to know her better later), visited the war museum. As one would expect from a communist country that, we the Americans, don't get much of a shake even though we fought for the south. Following that, we were invited to join Bill's brother in law and family for another home cooked lunch. We then hooked up with my friend, Uyen and proceded to go down town for shopping, coffee, and dinner at a "locals" joint, followed by Karaoke in a private room. In my first post, I commented about the traffic. All I can say is that they have no one way streets and no two way streets, they have ANY WAY streets. Bikes, cars, and walkers finding their way without any orginization. I havn't seen an accident and have noticed that there is no gridlock. Alright, I can't believe that I got this far without being tossed off the web in mid sentence, so I quit for now. More next time.

Pictures

2007-03-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

I'm having an issue with my hotel and it's wireless service. Slow and slower! For some reason I have been unsuccessful uploading the pictures. Hope to have it resolved real soon.

Day One (really two when your 16 hrs. in the air)

2007-03-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic start to what is already an unbelievable trip. We took off from SEA at 2:20am and I indulged in two Tylonal PM tablets thirty minutes prior. I might be on the next Tylonal commercial because I slept for close to nine hours! Zero jet lag! We arrive Saigon at 9:30am and were met by ten to eleven friends and family of Bill's. What a sight, they welcomed me as part of the family. Next the ride to Saigon. Ten million motor cycles going through what is the most orginized chaos that I have ever seen. We went immediataly to a home for a special lunch, prepared for us. I toured the 900 Sg ft. home. The family sleeps on mats on the floor and from the smiles and laughter I saw, I could tell they truly love life and family, (pics follow).

Trip of a lifetime

2007-03-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

Well, it's two days before we leave, and I'm counting the minutes. I am taking my digital camera and I plan to post plenty of pictures. My tour guide, Bill Seeburger will see to it that we have a blast. More later.