Eager Anticipation and Thanks

It's almost time to leave DFW and the comforts/familiarity of family/friends/co-workers and Tex-Mex. ...to Hanoi via Chicago and Tokyo. While awaiting the first flight I'm flooded with emotion. I'm the beneficiary of so many words of written and spoken encouragement from friends and family. People concerned about my safety (hopefully unfounded), praying for the people I meet and that the trip will be successful and even a teenager wanting to buy chickens or a goat for the elderly/orphan facilty. ...thoughts of sadness at being away from Paula. The overpowering emotion is a combination of eager anticipation and enthusiasm!!! Seeing Vietnamese friends from the previous four trips, visiting the orphans/elderly...so excited about the rocking chair/adopt a grandma program...meeting with government officials regarding further endeavors to improve care...on and on...and of course a bowl of pho for breakfast. I land there Tuesday night Hanoi time/Tuesday morning Dallas time, and my first appointment is about 7 hours after my anticipated arrival at the hotel. 12 hour Iime zone difference. I bought a 6 pack of 5 Hour Energy, just in case! Thanks for your kind words, thoughts and prayers. They lift me up.