Yesterday we booked our trip to Vietnam. We will be gone from March 10-17. I plan on taking my laptop and blogging as we go – can’t wait to make my first international post with plenty of pictures.
Why are we going?Â
My mother is from Vietnam, and we plan on spreading her remaining ashes back in her homeland. But I also think this will be some kind of spiritual journey for me – almost like Alex Haley going back to Africa in the miniseries Roots: The Next Generation. I wonder how many of you know what scene I’m talking about?
Growing up, I was never proud, almost at times embarrassed about my cultural background. I guess it would be a combination of people making fun of my race, not fitting in, and the Vietnam War. Heck, for the longest time I thought to be American you had to be white just like my father. However, as I have matured and learned the true definition of an American, I also learned to embrace my heritage and take comfort that God made me this way for a reason – that I’m not a mistake as I sometimes heard.
Originally I was scared to death to go on this trip, but know I’m looking forward to this adventure. The thought of flying over the ocean for such a long time, being in a communist country in a land where I don’t understand the language, being away from DogGeeding and HDTV and TIVO, not to mention the water and food was all intimidating factors. But now, I think it’s time to live life and embrace it. Time for me to open up my heart and let God do his work. If something happens, it happens. My only regret is that Mom won’t be there to tell me everything from her perspective.
The above picture was taken at the Vietnamese travel agency we used to book our tickets. It cracked me up and warmed my heart at the same time. As you know, Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh City when the communist took over; yet many many many Vietnamese still refer to it as Saigon.
We will be flying Korean Air to Seoul (14 hours), then to Saigon (4 hours). From Saigon we will be taking a 2 1/2 car mile drive to My Tho (pronounced “me tah”), that’s where the family I’ve only seen in pictures live. I was told the drive takes so long because they can only travel at 30 mph. Anything over and the police start to shoot to reinforce the speed limit. Yup, that’s a bit of culture shock and another reason why I’m thankful to be living in freedom.
I know the experience for you 3 will be something beyond words. As a mom, I have concerns for your safety, but I KNOW God will ALWAYS have you in His protective arms. God bless all of you as you anticipate and fulfill this adventure.
God Bless my friend. Have fun and enjoy this new journey that the Father is taking you on. However, don’t drive faster then 30 mph. it could cost you more than a ticket.
If you let it, I’m sure this trip will change your life. Also, I went on a flight on Korean air when I was around 10 years old… it had a very specific smell. Ever since then, I sometimes catch a whiff of it, and think “Korean Air,” but I never say anything because I know no one knows what I’m talking about.
I look forward to all the posts about your adventure! Very exciting.
Korean Air rocks…the food is great, the stewardesses are lovely, and bring a seat cushion cause my butt fell asleep on that flight two weeks ago! Incheon Airport has a Dunkin’ Donuts and Burger King if you really think you need it. But, I loved the food on Korean. The Korean meal over the Western meal every time!
Bring it on over to Asia babeeeee!
Moldinasia
Here is a link to the Koren dish…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibimbap
And, so as to not sound so shallow, I do think that this trip will be the most significant journey your family has ever taken. Breath it in and feel it in your lungs!
Of course, I hope that the LORD awakens something inside you much greater than any of us could think up.
OUT!
Good for you, I’m sure it will be a rewarding experience. If you have time, visit the Cu Chi tunnels just outside of Ho Chi Minh. It really gives a good perspective to Vietnam War. I have some video of it on my blog.
Absolutely fascinating!
Vietnam is supposed to be an awesome country to visit. It has been said that you can live like a king on very little money. Go with God’s speed. I look forward to some really great posts.
AWESOME!! I’m so happy for you! I can’t wait to hear all about your trip!
Ditto on the Korean Air. They do a great job. I am excited for you, Kelsy, and Lisa. Can’t wait to hear/ read all about it.
tim
Wishing you a safe, and interesting journey. Looking forward to your posts, maybe us Americans can learn a little about life. God Bless.. Roland
What a great opportunity to develop an even broader appreciation for both your Vienamese heritage and your American patronage. Rarely does life offer such rich opportunities to grow. To me, this appears to be a loving gift from your mom.
Wow. I’m jealous. I have yet to make it off the North American tectonic plate. Vietnam is about as exotic and not-America as I can imagine.
I look forward to your posts, Keith. With your conversational, every-guy writing style and ability to observe closely, it should be most educational.
I have been out to Naan in The Shops at Legacy with a Korean friend a few times, and the only advice I can give you is this: Go VERY easy on the kimchee! That stuff is LETHAL!