Well, the morning has been amazingly smooth. The car arrived at my hotel punctually at 0700 and whisked me away to Da Nang Airport, a 45-minute drive. I was checked in, through security, and at my gate by 0800. Slicker than snot on a marble. Speaking of marble, we passed Marble Mountain, with its many carved marble shops, en route to the airport. Friends from home had asked that I sure a few marble Happy Buddha statues for them. "Just small ones", I was told. Well, you know me, always looking for the best value. Anyway, I have laden my baggage with the requested statues, which are somewhat larger than requested. They were purchased directly from the man who carved them, which is neat. Two are a fairly rare marble and weren't actually for sale. But he, impressed with the humanitarian nature of my purpose in Vietnam, wanted me to have them. Anyway, I have accomplished my Marble Mountain Mission, so the recipients will soon be rubbing the smiling Happy Buddha's belly. I have no photos to share, as the fellow wrapped the items for protection. For a brief moment, I will admit to thinking that one of the rare-marble statues would look nice at my cabin. But, really, I am just happy to be be able to present such neat works of marble to my friends, who will appreciate them.
It looks like we board in a few minutes for Saigon. Signing off. for now.....
Neil
It looks like we board in a few minutes for Saigon. Signing off. for now.....
Neil
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