Somethings to remember...

Coming back Vietnam, I met again my family, relatives, friends, as well as my former students. I was profoundly touched by their warmth. Although living far away from the homeland, Vietnam is always in my heart. Vietnam is developing day by day. Many new buildings are springing up like mushrooms after rain. The number of motorbikes and cars are increasing rapidly. Vietnam today is experiencing tremendous change.

Growing up in the countryside (not far from Bien Hoa City center), I remembered the smell of rice on an open fire and the sounds of rooters waking people up in the morning. Giant banyan trees, fresh water wells, bamboo hedges, lands of farms and orchards created a colourful and picturesque view of my village. You could smell fresh cut rice and see drying hay along roads during the harvest season. Those are Vietnam in my memory and I wish to keep intact the beauty of the past. My family has grown up in this village for many generations. Unfortunately, my village is gradually vanished in front of my eyes. Half of the village has undergone change as the result of urbanization. The vast rice fields, orchards, clean air and peaceful life were replaced by new buildings and noisy roads. Half of the village is still under the urbanization process. The villagers no longer want to take care their lands and orchards. A deep sadness penetrated in my heart when I saw this scenery. My family had to move our ancestors' resting places to a new location. The picture of my grandma's tomb that Jimmy took is possible last one before we move her remain. Hopefully, their resting places won't be disturbed in the future.

Jimmy and I walked three nights on the roads that I used to go to my middle and high school. I nearly got lost because of new roads and Jimmy directed me how to go back my brother's house. What a shame! The urbanization process brings serious environmental change. Many motor vehicles are constantly discharging toxic gas into the city 's atmosphere. The town is so polluted and noisy.

I had a great opportunity to visit the School of Deaf and Blind, Orphanages, Community Colleges and Dental School. It was such a good experience. The smiling and happy faces of children and students will stay with me forever.

I would like to sincerely thank you to Dr. Maebo, Jolene, Mike and Jimmy who stepped out of their comfortable zones to make this adventure with me. Thank you to my family, friends supported me to make the trip possible. I don't want to close the chapter of our adventure because it has just begun. Hopefully, we will be back Vietnam next two years.

Smiles and hugs from my family, my friends to welcome us home and drops of tear to say farewell to us are always in my memory. Good bye and see you again!

Chao tam biet va hen gap lai ! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoPX2JejUTg&feature=related