April 20, 2017 1340 Vietnam Time Dong Ha

I was dropped off by bus in downtown Dong Ha about 0930 this morning. With much luggage to carry, I asked a girl standing nearby how far it might be to my hotel. She offered to take me, baggage and all, on her motorbike. Holy cow, I couldn't understand how everything could possibly fit. Well, it was quite the balancing act, but we did it. Upon being dropped off at the hotel, I asked how much I owed for the transportation service. "Nothing...glad to help you", was her response. I asked again, reaching for my wallet. Still she refused,  reaffirming that she just wanted to help me out. What a nice welcome to Dong Ha....stark contrast to May, 1968.

Now I will walk to the market, about one kilometer distant, to purchase a gift. At 1630 someone is supposed to show up here at the hotel to discuss transportation for tomorrow and the next day. Two busy days are on the horizon. Tomorrow is the distribution of 1,250 writing tablets at Nhi Ha School...5 tablets to each of 250 students...one student at a time...89.6F (37C). Today is the same temp. Gosh, my body inside and the outside temp are the same! The tablets are being donated in memory of Terri Chapdelaine, school teacher and friend, who passed away unexpectedly Feb 17. If the banner turns out as I designed, it will be an amazing tribute to a wonderful person who touched the lives of so many.

Neil

March 9, 1955     Terri Chapdelaine       Feb 17, 2017