micaphonechex

Train ride to Hue was on the air-conditioned Sleeper, Express, which took around 18 hours. We rode through acres and acres of rice fields, along the China Sea and barren coastal “communities”. They are forced to leave their homes or neighborhoods to find work in other areas.

Streetside eats with Thau and Linh. Watermelons, which are one fourth the size of ours, and grapefruits, which are four times larger than ours and green, are some of the many fruits eaten daily. Jack Fruit, which smells like garbage and repulsed Bri and I, tastes surprising good–Michele couldn’t get enough of it. Several over spinyContinue reading

Tongue Tied “I’m always in three different conversations!” Translating back and forth is NOT easy, especially when there were so many relatives, funny incidents, problems and discussions, all needing translation. We couldn’t have possibly had the trip we had if Michelle wasn’t there. I thank her for opening up her life and world to usContinue reading

At the Emperor’s burial grounds outside the city proper-Hue.

Bri teaches cousins “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes”.

Playing Thing Lin, a favorite card game, with Michele’s younger cousins, Ise, laughing, Linh and Thuc, (standing). Much of life takes place on the floor where it’s cooler. They love the hard surfaces and even sleep without mats right there on the floor.

Famous burial grounds of one of the last emperors from another era.

Uncle Sam’s boys plus cousin’s Bao and The from Saigon. (l-r) Uncle Sam, Michelle, Bao and father, The, Anh Hai and Ba.

At her Great Aunt’s place about 25 minutes into Hue’s countryside. Michelle with baby (cousin?)

Sunday, July 15 Michelle with cousins, two sisters and brother of the bride. During Day #2 of wedding, friends amounting to around 750 guest joined the new couple at the Green Hotel for great food and music. It is customary that audience members sing for the couple. Look for my rendition of “New York, NewContinue reading