Short but Wonderful Visit

I'm leaving CT tomorrow for CA - just 2 weeks to go before returning to Vietnam. Yes that's right. Going back to Vietnam for a year. Some say I'm crazy - sometimes I agree - but mostly I know I'm making a huge impact on a lot of lives. I love the kids in Vietnam - they have no idea how much! I have a 50 pound bag of clothes packed for them and I'll be back in time to celebrate Christmas with at least 40 if not over 100 kids, depending on where I am. My plan is to get high on Vietnamese Coffee and stay awake for as many days as it takes to see all the kids, mothers, staff and volunteers as soon as I get back!

The team in Vietnam has been doing such great things since I've been gone. There have been trips to the hospital, educational seminars, more supplies bought, 1 on 1 time with troubled kids and much, much more. I can't begin to tell you how proud I am of everyone in our program.

Here in the States, I've been busy selling Christmas Cards made by Red Cross kids, I've done 2 speaking engagements, I've sold embroidery, coffee, scarves and purses - all for the kid's food program in DaNang. I have more cards and calendars to sell in Ct and even more waiting for me in CA!

Time with family and friends in CT has been priceless. I love my family and I'm blessed that we have such a great relationship. They are very supportive of my desire to return to Vietnam although I know they're sad that I'm leaving CT - yet again - after saying I'd move back here. I'm considering working abroad long term and coming home to CT / CA for a couple months a year to vacation. We'll see. Still need to find that sponsor to pay a salary for me!

My nephew Ambros is 2 1/2 and talking like crazy. It will be hard to leave him but we've spent a lot of quality time together. By the age of 3, I'm sure he'll be emailing me! He loves to read, run and repeat whatever we tell him. I think he'll be top of his class and make us proud. Hopefully he won't ask ME for any help with homework! Yikes.

I've been going to the gym 4 - 5 days a week - it feels great to be in a workout routine again. Vietnam was WAY TOO HOT the last few months I was there. However, now that I'm back in shape, I'll have to find a way to work out in the 90 degree weather with the 85 percent humidity. The older I get, the more work it takes eh?

I've been lucky to have such a huge support base - literally from around the world. From family, friends and new friends (volunteers) - you have all been wonderful. You're fund raising, sending inspiring emails, coming back to Vietnam to volunteer - you inspire me to keep going. Although my vacation has been somewhat of a working vacation, I wouldn't trade it for anything. It's the perfect combination of rest, relaxation, brainstorming and visiting! Thanks for all your love and support.