There seems to be no end to the number of wires on any given standard in Vietnam. I suspect that it is probably cheaper to add new rather than figure out what is what with the existing. Overall infrastructure here fascinates me. We've seen new bridges leading to nowhere and road construction that appears to chop off only half of someone's roadside home. At the same time we can see that improvement projects are busting out all over. And as for money exchanging hands--well let's not even go there.
On the other hand, this framework (which to the outsider is difficult to understand) is the backdrop to fifty-four unique ethnic groups. Everyone we have met is hard working, extends hospitality, is proud of their home and above all honours their family. That, in my books, is a win! We will be home in a few days. You are always in my prayers. Love Mom. There may be nothing more iconically Vietnamese than the conical hat. Although infinitely practical, being both sunshade and waterproof, they are also associated with legends and love stories. The poem hats, typical of Hue, have poems or pictures inserted between the layers so that when they are held up to the sun you can read the shadows.
Can you imagine tipping your hat to the sun and finding the gift of encouraging words from someone you love? Today when light or shadow falls on your path I hope you know that you are adored. You are always in my prayers. Love Mom. I have loved you with an everlasting love Jeremiah 31:3 In Vietnam Fu, Lu, and Shu are said to bring happiness, prosperity and longevity to your home. Eight is a lucky number, but four and seven are unlucky. Your Dad and I were married on the Fourth of July (7th month 4th day)--oops! I suppose I'll have to place a dog statue at my door to scare away just enough unhappiness to keep my yin and yang in balance.
Today we walked on China Beach on the twenty-fifth of the first month. I don't know much about two, five, and one, but I am surely feeling blessed. You are always in my prayers. Love Mom. Contrary to our westernized view of Vietnam's struggle for independence, the Vietnamese maintain a certain fondness for Ho Chi Minh (Uncle Ho). Prior to his regime women in Vietnam did not have their own name. As proud as they were to be "wife of Trang" or "mother of Lee", they applaud Ho for giving them their own name to answer to. My hope rests in the assurance that even if I were "wife of Ray" God would have my name written on his heart.
He calls me chosen, free forgiven, wanted, child of the King, His forever, held in treasure... I am loved (Battistelli) You are always in my prayers. Love Mom. |
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Ray & Diane
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