Red Cross Orphanage and Vocational Training Center

Today we left the hotel at an ungodly hour when nobody should be awake. Although it was 5pm in PA so I guess I shouldn't complain. We caught a flight to our next location and went directly to the center that we serve. 

At the vocational training center, we donated computers, printers and a rice cooker:

Then they taught us some of their trades, like printing:

They also sold us some of their product. I bought this awesome handmade scarf, made by the girl in this picture. I'm hoping to make it into a pillow:

We also spent time at the Red Cross Orphanage. When we first arrived, this little boy wouldn't let anyone near him. But Alisia was persistent and by the end, he wouldn't let go!

We donated a refrigerator to the center

as well as a sewing and cutting machine so the workers could make the children clothing. 

We also donated some other supplies like baby wash, clothing, Tide, Advil and other items:

 

If I want to be in a picture, it is usually a selfie, so here is one of me and one of the little girls I was holding. We must have played "this little piggy" 50 times! She giggled and loved it every time!!

The groups were very appreciative of the support we provided their children. Over and over, the Vietnamese people say thank you and thank you again. They also wish good health quite frequently. It's really very sweet!!

On the way home, we had time for a quick tour of marble mountains. This is clearly a very spiritual place as we saw a lot of people praying there. We didn't realize we could have climbed to the peak so we missed out on going to "heaven", but it was still a really neat place to explore for a few minutes. Here are some pictures:

We haven't really learned any Vietnamese on this trip except for one word: Kem means ice cream! Alisia eats it daily!! 

This is a pre-dinner dip in the pool which led to a post-dinner full swim. We enjoyed the pool although it isn't too refreshing. It's more like bath water! But, then again, when it's 110 degrees with high humidity, I'm not sure what would feel refreshing?!? 

Unless they had air conditioning....which they don't. Well, they have the equivalent of a window unit but they rigged it so that it turns off when you are out of your bedroom. After spending all day out and about, it takes all night to get even a little bit cool. We are doing our best to embrace the heat. Sweat pours down us and we simply wipe it up or, better yet, just let it drip! No need to complain because it isn't going to help you cool off!! Alisia had been outstanding on this trip. Tolerating the heat and the busy schedule like a champ. These are long busy days but she is keeping up without a problem! Tomorrow is an off day where we can do our own thing. I found a flyer for a ride on a water buffalo through the countryside and then rowing on these round boats they have. I can't wait to experience a little of the Vietnamese culture tomorrow!!