Monday, 11 June 2012
The POD has started!
Today is June 11th, the starting day of the pilot Program of Development (POD) we helped to set up when in Vietnam a few weeks ago. I can't believe it and I've thought of them all day. No photos are posted yet, but look up CHIA-POD on Facebook and I'm sure the very first photos will be up soon. I'm so impatient to find out how it went!!
Wednesday, 16 May 2012
What makes a grown physiotherapist want to cry
On the last day of this visit, I had agreed to help Phuc (a Vietnamese physiotherapist with a volunteer organisation) out at a facility in the area. Although I don't work with him technically anymore (such a long story), he's become a friend, and because I have previously worked with him for years, I still feel like I want to know how he is progressing. John and Lyn Quilty, who have just volunteered at Tam Ky where Phuc has been the project manager for a few months, have told me they admire Phuc, and feel he has really risen to this job, which previously he has found very challenging. This news is so welcome, and I'm really proud of Phuc, who has come out of his shell, and is no longer so shy with Westerners. In terms of his physiotherapy skills, well I'm just as proud as I could possibly be. To hear him talking active movement, function and development versus the typical adherence to passive movement and stretching has me so happy. But this is not what made me want to cry.
Standing in a facility with over 30 disabled kids, three and four to a bed lying on the sweaty plastic mattresses (I suppose I should be grateful they at least have some comfort) with NOTHING to do all day- this is what makes me want to cry. Obviously smart little kids, stuck in the one place because of their disability. There were about 4-5 kids who just lit up to see us come in, and one little boy just watched me the whole time. I was aching to take him off the bed and play with him and find out what he was capable of. I cannot show pictures, as I do not want anyone to get in trouble, and we needed permission to take the photos, which I wanted to use to help Phuc write some programs. It wouldn't be fair to do anything that causes friction there for him.
I'll never forget standing in the middle of that large room and just thinking "Oh my god, where do I start?" and just wanting to cry my eyes out. On a positive note, the room was very clean, and the carers obviously feed the kids well. It's the impoverished atmosphere, one of lack of stimulation and learning that does my head in.
I choose to see the whole morning as a really positive experience however. I got to meet some sensational kids, and to talk to their physio (and Phuc) about how we could arrange it so that more kids could benefit from the facilities there. They do have a great physio room, which I'm sure the kids love, and I have suggested that 4-5 be seen regularly in a group, and wrote some ideas for this. Some of the other very severe kids could be taken outside by volunteers in the wheelchairs (which do exist, but rarely used as far as I can tell) and work on hand skills, communication and activities to help feeding and drinking (playing with straws etc)
Leaving Vietnam is sad, but going home is fantastic. For me, I get really homesick, especially when I'm skyping home, it's just seeing the faces of the people I love. Having Benita this time has been amazing fun and we work so well together. I know we have achieved everything (and more) that we set out to do. But it isn't over, not by a long shot. I've been home for four days now, and most of those nights I have had dreams about Vietnam or the POD. Future ideas are forever bouncing around in my head, and although I have a cold and am miserable, I'm still often sitting at the computer and researching articles to help out future efforts. It is so essential that organisations such as CHIA continue to chip away at the seemingly unsolvable problems posed by providing disability services in a country that is developing. Every disabled child in every country deserves love, comfort, dignity and the opportunity to develop and learn. Sometimes there are barriers to this that just don't ever feature in our own environment. Like how to transport a 12year old girl with wild and unpredictable arm and leg movements who is unable to sit herself up- when all that is available is a bike or motorbike. Like battling the prevailing attitude that disabled kids can't/don't learn, and even if they did, poverty would prevent the parents accessing services. Like the fact that love just isn't the issue, there is so much of that to go around, especially courtesy of an extended family dedicated to the care of the disabled child. But the access to education and knowledge of HOW to care and feed the child or help them to learn and communicate is so sadly lacking. Education of the child is what I bore everyone who will listen about, education is always the key- but it is also the need to educate everyone involved with the care of the child.
This trip is physically over, but my support will continue. The kids of this area, and the people of CHIA are deserving of all the help that can be given. So when are you going to volunteer?
Standing in a facility with over 30 disabled kids, three and four to a bed lying on the sweaty plastic mattresses (I suppose I should be grateful they at least have some comfort) with NOTHING to do all day- this is what makes me want to cry. Obviously smart little kids, stuck in the one place because of their disability. There were about 4-5 kids who just lit up to see us come in, and one little boy just watched me the whole time. I was aching to take him off the bed and play with him and find out what he was capable of. I cannot show pictures, as I do not want anyone to get in trouble, and we needed permission to take the photos, which I wanted to use to help Phuc write some programs. It wouldn't be fair to do anything that causes friction there for him.
I'll never forget standing in the middle of that large room and just thinking "Oh my god, where do I start?" and just wanting to cry my eyes out. On a positive note, the room was very clean, and the carers obviously feed the kids well. It's the impoverished atmosphere, one of lack of stimulation and learning that does my head in.
I choose to see the whole morning as a really positive experience however. I got to meet some sensational kids, and to talk to their physio (and Phuc) about how we could arrange it so that more kids could benefit from the facilities there. They do have a great physio room, which I'm sure the kids love, and I have suggested that 4-5 be seen regularly in a group, and wrote some ideas for this. Some of the other very severe kids could be taken outside by volunteers in the wheelchairs (which do exist, but rarely used as far as I can tell) and work on hand skills, communication and activities to help feeding and drinking (playing with straws etc)
Leaving Vietnam is sad, but going home is fantastic. For me, I get really homesick, especially when I'm skyping home, it's just seeing the faces of the people I love. Having Benita this time has been amazing fun and we work so well together. I know we have achieved everything (and more) that we set out to do. But it isn't over, not by a long shot. I've been home for four days now, and most of those nights I have had dreams about Vietnam or the POD. Future ideas are forever bouncing around in my head, and although I have a cold and am miserable, I'm still often sitting at the computer and researching articles to help out future efforts. It is so essential that organisations such as CHIA continue to chip away at the seemingly unsolvable problems posed by providing disability services in a country that is developing. Every disabled child in every country deserves love, comfort, dignity and the opportunity to develop and learn. Sometimes there are barriers to this that just don't ever feature in our own environment. Like how to transport a 12year old girl with wild and unpredictable arm and leg movements who is unable to sit herself up- when all that is available is a bike or motorbike. Like battling the prevailing attitude that disabled kids can't/don't learn, and even if they did, poverty would prevent the parents accessing services. Like the fact that love just isn't the issue, there is so much of that to go around, especially courtesy of an extended family dedicated to the care of the disabled child. But the access to education and knowledge of HOW to care and feed the child or help them to learn and communicate is so sadly lacking. Education of the child is what I bore everyone who will listen about, education is always the key- but it is also the need to educate everyone involved with the care of the child.
This trip is physically over, but my support will continue. The kids of this area, and the people of CHIA are deserving of all the help that can be given. So when are you going to volunteer?
Saturday, 12 May 2012
Everything else is just going home
Such a happy/sad day yesterday-our last day working for CHIA (this year!) Spent the morning with Phuong, going through our folders and talking our last ideas on training of our carers and programs for the kids. Instead of simply handing over what I think Phuong should do, I have talked through everything with her quite a few times, especially what she should consider teaching her carer of her own physio skills. I have chosen not to write it all out for her (as we have done with the education/communication/activities sections), as this stuff should be her 'bread an butter'. I don't think you learn anything by being given endless documents to put in a folder and then forget you have ever had them. It kills me, especially as few notes are taken- but then maybe that's not fair. I'm old so need to take notes to remind myself of what I need to do, but not everyone works that way.
On Thursday, Benita, Robyn and I tossed around some ideas and I think I may have a suggestion as a way of making disability services more sustainable in this province. I have outlined my thoughts and have agreed to stay in touch by email and skype as CHIA start to explore the future way forward for the POD model. Anyway, the pilot project starts on June 11th (probably already mentioned!) Today, we went down to Pho Riu for my last proper Vietnam coffee (actually had 2) and saw Robyn was across the road at CHIA. Invited her over and had a great chat. She's a fascinating lady. I mentioned that an idle thought of mine was that CHIA having a small car would solve our POD transport problems, maybe some kind car company out there might donate one!
So, back to yesterday, lunch with Robyn and Xuan who we had invited as a thank you for giving us a great price on our clothes. The bad woman managed to pay while we weren't paying attention, as she said we were guests of her country. The afternoon at CHIA was so funny and so sad. Benita and I were in charge of the team building, and had organised 4 games (but only needed 2 in the end as they took so long). The first game was using a straw to blow a rubber duck around a big bowl of water without hitting obstructions, and the second was catching bubbles with one hand (and the team who catches the most wins). It was an absolute scream! Seeing grown men and women enjoying playing these games so much, makes me think perhaps our Vietnamese friends are much better than us at allowing our fun/childlike side to be shown. It was brilliant, but by the end we were all sweating hugely.
Our friends gave us the most beautiful cashmere scarves and silk purses, and we gave them a picture to hang on their wall of themselves. Our pictures were signed, and I'll really treasure mine. I don't want to really say too much about saying goodbye. I know I'm coming back, I've given up on thinking I could go elsewhere. Vietnam is such a beautiful place, with such beautiful people, the children are adorable, and I may as well just go ahead and learn the language some more! Each of the CHIA staff are truly wonderful-even the shy boys gave us a hug, and asked their 'mums' to come back. The gloriously raucous girls and even the gentle little Chau (good luck with your baby)all asked us to return, and gave lovely hugs. I was so happy to see Dung before we left, she'd been to the doctor's in Da nang with ther baby Tep, so will have results in a few days.
Saying goodbye to Phuong and Quan was very hard. I was singing the INXS song "Baby don't cry" while waiting for Benita to come downstairs, and Quan said "Why should I not cry?" as in, he was so sad we were leaving. Still more to say, especially about going to the orphanage this morning with my friend the Vietnamese physio Phuc, but it's time to get ready to leave. Sad to go, but really desperate to leave, now it is all over and I want my family. Adam scored a try in rugby today and I missed it. I HATE missing things like that while I'm gone, but I guess there has to be some sort of trade-off to what I've chosen to do
On Thursday, Benita, Robyn and I tossed around some ideas and I think I may have a suggestion as a way of making disability services more sustainable in this province. I have outlined my thoughts and have agreed to stay in touch by email and skype as CHIA start to explore the future way forward for the POD model. Anyway, the pilot project starts on June 11th (probably already mentioned!) Today, we went down to Pho Riu for my last proper Vietnam coffee (actually had 2) and saw Robyn was across the road at CHIA. Invited her over and had a great chat. She's a fascinating lady. I mentioned that an idle thought of mine was that CHIA having a small car would solve our POD transport problems, maybe some kind car company out there might donate one!
So, back to yesterday, lunch with Robyn and Xuan who we had invited as a thank you for giving us a great price on our clothes. The bad woman managed to pay while we weren't paying attention, as she said we were guests of her country. The afternoon at CHIA was so funny and so sad. Benita and I were in charge of the team building, and had organised 4 games (but only needed 2 in the end as they took so long). The first game was using a straw to blow a rubber duck around a big bowl of water without hitting obstructions, and the second was catching bubbles with one hand (and the team who catches the most wins). It was an absolute scream! Seeing grown men and women enjoying playing these games so much, makes me think perhaps our Vietnamese friends are much better than us at allowing our fun/childlike side to be shown. It was brilliant, but by the end we were all sweating hugely.
Our friends gave us the most beautiful cashmere scarves and silk purses, and we gave them a picture to hang on their wall of themselves. Our pictures were signed, and I'll really treasure mine. I don't want to really say too much about saying goodbye. I know I'm coming back, I've given up on thinking I could go elsewhere. Vietnam is such a beautiful place, with such beautiful people, the children are adorable, and I may as well just go ahead and learn the language some more! Each of the CHIA staff are truly wonderful-even the shy boys gave us a hug, and asked their 'mums' to come back. The gloriously raucous girls and even the gentle little Chau (good luck with your baby)all asked us to return, and gave lovely hugs. I was so happy to see Dung before we left, she'd been to the doctor's in Da nang with ther baby Tep, so will have results in a few days.
Saying goodbye to Phuong and Quan was very hard. I was singing the INXS song "Baby don't cry" while waiting for Benita to come downstairs, and Quan said "Why should I not cry?" as in, he was so sad we were leaving. Still more to say, especially about going to the orphanage this morning with my friend the Vietnamese physio Phuc, but it's time to get ready to leave. Sad to go, but really desperate to leave, now it is all over and I want my family. Adam scored a try in rugby today and I missed it. I HATE missing things like that while I'm gone, but I guess there has to be some sort of trade-off to what I've chosen to do
Thursday, 10 May 2012
It's nearly over
Second last day, and it's almost done. Just the folders to hand over and go through, and a few ends to tie up to ensure that everything I've given 'physio' wise has been understood and will be incorporated as needed into the training section and POD folder as the physio Phuong sees fit.
This week we have seen the lovely kids to finish assessment, watch their feeding (so we can advise the carer on how best to help them eat) and write their movement and positioning programs. A few things for me to tidy up at home. Some of the pictures that would be useful for Phuong are in PDF so can't be cut and pasted into her programs easily, so I'll fix that up for her and send it over. I've sent around an email to speech therapists to help out with the advice for the girls feeding and am hoping for some advice before I leave.
We have been up to Xuans a couple of times to finish the new set of clothes we ordered. Whilst I finally got the horrible shoes that I never really wanted anyway, I'm now waiting on two other pairs from a different shop that I've been back twice to. When I first tried them on, I could not get my foot in properly to either pair, and they were easily two sizes too small. No problem we will fix by tomorrow. I went back today, and neither pair looks or feels any different, I just can't get my foot in them. Still, they promise again to fix by tomorrow. How many people who don't have a long time to stay get stuck with clothes and shoes that don't fit or aren't what they ordered because they have to leave before they can be fixed??
The weather shows no improvement, with cloying humidity and heat most of the time, especially in the middle of the day. Often, I come up from breakfast and change clothes so I can go to work without sweat all over me.
Benita and I are in charge of the 'team building' (oh goodie) at Friday's team meeting. We took ourselves off to the market yesterday and bought a bunch of stuff Phuong can use for the activities in the POD, and my idea was to just set up 4 of the activities and ask the adults to 'play' with them. I'm sure the iPad station will be the most popular in this technology obsessed place!
Had a long and interesting talk with Robyn today, as the longevity (well indeed, getting the POD even going by our proposed start date June 11) and sustainability of this model has had me up brooding many nights. We are lucky to have a facility for the pilot, and some good problem solving from everyone to deal with issues of transport, feeding, payment of the carer etc, but hanging over the pilot is the need to roll it out elsewhere, and in more rural areas. While we were talking today, a possible solution struck me, and after some discussion, it seems it may have possibilities if we could investigate any precedent to it (perhaps in Hue), and find the right government people to advise us. I'm hesitant to say more until further discussion proves it more than just a pipe dream, but I'd certainly be delighted if what I have suggested has any way of working. Frustrating I have a brainwave the second last day..couldn't I have had this thought earlier!!! Benita has also shared with Robyn some great thoughts and suggestions on dental care, which is an ongoing problem with very poor education or understanding in this area and also attracting orthopods (and I threw in podiatrists to help make AFOs for our kids). Must think a bit more on this.
This afternoon we went to Dung's beautiful house so I could quickly check out her baby. She has a few concerns about her, however despite a possible click in her right hip, her development is brilliant. She's such a sweet little girl.
We've had our last meal at Morning Glory (sigh) and have eaten twice this week at Tu Anh by the river which is popular with Vietnamese people. The scallops are magnificent, as is the banana flower salad. watch the chicken dishes, as whilst they are divine, be prepared to get your hands dirty, as there is no dainty carving and boning, every bit goes right on in.
Tonight was just a brilliant night at Tu Anh. Initially we thought it would be just us, Phuong and Quan for an early dinner, but due to the wonders of interoffice skype, when we arrived, everyone was there. Had the whole table in stitches trying to teach them "cheers, big ears' to replace their usual 'mot, hai, ba, yoh'. They really are a special bunch of people, and it must be a wonderful working environment for them as they clearly all get on so well. Dinner was fish, rice porridge (much tastier than it sounds), morning glory and garlic and scallops. My husband will be astonished, but I drank beer, as the only other option was Dalat wine (so no other option at all!)
Well, I'm trying not to think much about tomorrow, as I have the feeling the afternoon will be very sad. We are having lunch with Robyn and Xuan (from the clothes shop), so that will be lovely.
It's sinking in fast, as I've just done my internet check in. What a weird feeling (leaving here), but I have to admit, the thought of seeing my family, my crazy pets and my house is making me really happy, and the thought of my own bed, pillow and lounge is making me almost delirious!
This week we have seen the lovely kids to finish assessment, watch their feeding (so we can advise the carer on how best to help them eat) and write their movement and positioning programs. A few things for me to tidy up at home. Some of the pictures that would be useful for Phuong are in PDF so can't be cut and pasted into her programs easily, so I'll fix that up for her and send it over. I've sent around an email to speech therapists to help out with the advice for the girls feeding and am hoping for some advice before I leave.
We have been up to Xuans a couple of times to finish the new set of clothes we ordered. Whilst I finally got the horrible shoes that I never really wanted anyway, I'm now waiting on two other pairs from a different shop that I've been back twice to. When I first tried them on, I could not get my foot in properly to either pair, and they were easily two sizes too small. No problem we will fix by tomorrow. I went back today, and neither pair looks or feels any different, I just can't get my foot in them. Still, they promise again to fix by tomorrow. How many people who don't have a long time to stay get stuck with clothes and shoes that don't fit or aren't what they ordered because they have to leave before they can be fixed??
The weather shows no improvement, with cloying humidity and heat most of the time, especially in the middle of the day. Often, I come up from breakfast and change clothes so I can go to work without sweat all over me.
Benita and I are in charge of the 'team building' (oh goodie) at Friday's team meeting. We took ourselves off to the market yesterday and bought a bunch of stuff Phuong can use for the activities in the POD, and my idea was to just set up 4 of the activities and ask the adults to 'play' with them. I'm sure the iPad station will be the most popular in this technology obsessed place!
Had a long and interesting talk with Robyn today, as the longevity (well indeed, getting the POD even going by our proposed start date June 11) and sustainability of this model has had me up brooding many nights. We are lucky to have a facility for the pilot, and some good problem solving from everyone to deal with issues of transport, feeding, payment of the carer etc, but hanging over the pilot is the need to roll it out elsewhere, and in more rural areas. While we were talking today, a possible solution struck me, and after some discussion, it seems it may have possibilities if we could investigate any precedent to it (perhaps in Hue), and find the right government people to advise us. I'm hesitant to say more until further discussion proves it more than just a pipe dream, but I'd certainly be delighted if what I have suggested has any way of working. Frustrating I have a brainwave the second last day..couldn't I have had this thought earlier!!! Benita has also shared with Robyn some great thoughts and suggestions on dental care, which is an ongoing problem with very poor education or understanding in this area and also attracting orthopods (and I threw in podiatrists to help make AFOs for our kids). Must think a bit more on this.
This afternoon we went to Dung's beautiful house so I could quickly check out her baby. She has a few concerns about her, however despite a possible click in her right hip, her development is brilliant. She's such a sweet little girl.
We've had our last meal at Morning Glory (sigh) and have eaten twice this week at Tu Anh by the river which is popular with Vietnamese people. The scallops are magnificent, as is the banana flower salad. watch the chicken dishes, as whilst they are divine, be prepared to get your hands dirty, as there is no dainty carving and boning, every bit goes right on in.
Tonight was just a brilliant night at Tu Anh. Initially we thought it would be just us, Phuong and Quan for an early dinner, but due to the wonders of interoffice skype, when we arrived, everyone was there. Had the whole table in stitches trying to teach them "cheers, big ears' to replace their usual 'mot, hai, ba, yoh'. They really are a special bunch of people, and it must be a wonderful working environment for them as they clearly all get on so well. Dinner was fish, rice porridge (much tastier than it sounds), morning glory and garlic and scallops. My husband will be astonished, but I drank beer, as the only other option was Dalat wine (so no other option at all!)
Well, I'm trying not to think much about tomorrow, as I have the feeling the afternoon will be very sad. We are having lunch with Robyn and Xuan (from the clothes shop), so that will be lovely.
It's sinking in fast, as I've just done my internet check in. What a weird feeling (leaving here), but I have to admit, the thought of seeing my family, my crazy pets and my house is making me really happy, and the thought of my own bed, pillow and lounge is making me almost delirious!
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| Little Tep, Dung's baby |
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| Dung, her mother, and Tep |
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| Cyclo city |
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| "Cheers, big ears!" |
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| Phuong and Quan |
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| Quan fighting the other boys for the last bits of fish |
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| Beautiful Lai |
Wednesday, 9 May 2012
Working with the kids of Vietnam
By the time I look through roughly 600 photos then choose just a few then work out how to do it again it's midnight and I'm still way behind in my blog.
Quickly though, these last three days have been a real rollercoaster. Monday was largely miserable, despite seeing our three POD kids. It doesn't reflect well on anyone to dwell on it, so I'm not going to relay what happened. Delighted to report we are all friends again, and Tuesday/Wednesday have been much more happy and productive. Our kids are beautiful, just look at their faces, and you'll work out why I keep coming. The effort, the motivation, the joy, the happiness (and the sadness) just have me hooked on their fates. Will definitely update a bit more tomorrow as things start to wind down. We have finished our assessments, finished writing all our resources for them, and are just putting together the information folders to leave behind. Every day still brings surprises and new problems to solve, but certainly keeps the brain sparking all day!
Tuesday, 8 May 2012
Ms Vy's cooking class, Morning Glory Hoi An
Well, as is so typical of Vietnam, there's been a slight break in transmission while an internet problem has been fixed (by Benita in the end) at the hotel. Turns out all that was wrong was a plug coming out of its socket.
Sunday was a brilliant day. We started early with sizzling eggs with Robyn. This time around detected definite offal looking additions to the meal, however I reasoned that I enjoyed it last time, and if I didn't look too carefully I'd enjoy it again. It was just a beautiful day, and didn't feel quite as hot in the morning as it has done. Walked down past the markets to our favourite riverside coffee place (lots of teeny tiny plastic chairs) and watched the ferries coming in laden with people, motorbikes and bicycles. By 8.30 we were at Morning Glory which I've written about before. Stunning food!! Love the place. We signed up for the cooking classes after our last meal. Around $25 each for a tour of the markets and 3 hour cooking class.
The market tour was excellent. I love Vietnamese greens, especially morning glory, but don't know what to do with them or how to prepare them. Our lady, Loi, showed us a vege stall, a fruit stall and a fish stall. Got to taste Mangosteen (not sure of spelling) which I really enjoyed, and would buy now. Many Vietnamese love this fruit. The fish stall nearly made me heave! Clomping around in thongs in the mush and murky water and the smell nearly did me in. I am much better informed about fish however! We were given the usual hats to wear around, which turned out a blessing as they are great for waving away bad smells and fanning in the heat.
Back at Morning Glory, and we marveled at the great set up. We were extremely fortunate to have the wonderful Ms Vy as our teacher. Her stories of her life growing up, and how her family were literally saved by food are amazing. I urge anyone who loves food, loves Vietnam, or just wants to experience something different, to try out Ms Vy's classes. They are well worth every cent. We left so full after cooking 5 courses! Truly, she is an inspirational woman. Incidentally, she owns the Cua Dai hotel (and a few other restaurants such as Cargo) where we are staying.
Benita had really looked forward to these classes, whereas I was much more ambivalent about the prospect. I was astonished by how much I enjoyed the cooking, being so different to the usual food that I'd prepare. All the extremely time consuming cutting and chopping was already done, which I usually find the biggest chore. We made a fantastic cabbage soup-yes, I kid you not, this was a beautiful soup full of flavour, and I am still proud of the shrimp parcels I made that float in the soup. Other courses include the typical Vietnamese pancakes, a gorgeous chicken dish, mango salad, and fresh spring rolls. Ms Vy easily catered for those who were vegetarians, or needed to try other options. Great way to spend a lovely morning in Hoi An.
Walked across from Morning Glory after the cooking class to Reaching Out, which is my favourite shop in Hoi An. Everything is made by disabled artisans, and is so unique. I got a pendant with an amazing country scene (even a water buffalo!), a coffee mug for the kilos of coffee Mrs Hanh has given me, and 8 dishes to present my new cooking abilities in.
Spent an uncharacteristic amount of time shopping, and as Xuan (at 27 Hoang Dieu St) had given me such a wonderful price for my other clothes, ordered another two pairs of pants, shirts, a jacket and a skirt.
Picked up my shoes, and dinner was a packet of chips and half a bottle of wine. Guess I have to balance out all that healthy Vietnamese food! I'm still arguing with the shoe seller who tells me the while line in the maroon leather is normal. Refused to take it, insisted she make another (again). I think it is a war of wills now, with neither side prepared to concede.
Sunday was a brilliant day. We started early with sizzling eggs with Robyn. This time around detected definite offal looking additions to the meal, however I reasoned that I enjoyed it last time, and if I didn't look too carefully I'd enjoy it again. It was just a beautiful day, and didn't feel quite as hot in the morning as it has done. Walked down past the markets to our favourite riverside coffee place (lots of teeny tiny plastic chairs) and watched the ferries coming in laden with people, motorbikes and bicycles. By 8.30 we were at Morning Glory which I've written about before. Stunning food!! Love the place. We signed up for the cooking classes after our last meal. Around $25 each for a tour of the markets and 3 hour cooking class.
The market tour was excellent. I love Vietnamese greens, especially morning glory, but don't know what to do with them or how to prepare them. Our lady, Loi, showed us a vege stall, a fruit stall and a fish stall. Got to taste Mangosteen (not sure of spelling) which I really enjoyed, and would buy now. Many Vietnamese love this fruit. The fish stall nearly made me heave! Clomping around in thongs in the mush and murky water and the smell nearly did me in. I am much better informed about fish however! We were given the usual hats to wear around, which turned out a blessing as they are great for waving away bad smells and fanning in the heat.
Back at Morning Glory, and we marveled at the great set up. We were extremely fortunate to have the wonderful Ms Vy as our teacher. Her stories of her life growing up, and how her family were literally saved by food are amazing. I urge anyone who loves food, loves Vietnam, or just wants to experience something different, to try out Ms Vy's classes. They are well worth every cent. We left so full after cooking 5 courses! Truly, she is an inspirational woman. Incidentally, she owns the Cua Dai hotel (and a few other restaurants such as Cargo) where we are staying.
Benita had really looked forward to these classes, whereas I was much more ambivalent about the prospect. I was astonished by how much I enjoyed the cooking, being so different to the usual food that I'd prepare. All the extremely time consuming cutting and chopping was already done, which I usually find the biggest chore. We made a fantastic cabbage soup-yes, I kid you not, this was a beautiful soup full of flavour, and I am still proud of the shrimp parcels I made that float in the soup. Other courses include the typical Vietnamese pancakes, a gorgeous chicken dish, mango salad, and fresh spring rolls. Ms Vy easily catered for those who were vegetarians, or needed to try other options. Great way to spend a lovely morning in Hoi An.
Walked across from Morning Glory after the cooking class to Reaching Out, which is my favourite shop in Hoi An. Everything is made by disabled artisans, and is so unique. I got a pendant with an amazing country scene (even a water buffalo!), a coffee mug for the kilos of coffee Mrs Hanh has given me, and 8 dishes to present my new cooking abilities in.
Spent an uncharacteristic amount of time shopping, and as Xuan (at 27 Hoang Dieu St) had given me such a wonderful price for my other clothes, ordered another two pairs of pants, shirts, a jacket and a skirt.
Picked up my shoes, and dinner was a packet of chips and half a bottle of wine. Guess I have to balance out all that healthy Vietnamese food! I'm still arguing with the shoe seller who tells me the while line in the maroon leather is normal. Refused to take it, insisted she make another (again). I think it is a war of wills now, with neither side prepared to concede.
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| I love Vietnamese greens, but sometimes don't want to think about where they have been! |
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| Sizzling Eggs |
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| As quiet as you will ever see a Hoi An street! |
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| Fave restaurant, Morning Glory |
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| Street out front of Morning Glory |
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| Anyone for a tour? |
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| There's a tail, but not sure from which beast! |
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| Banana Flower -the salad from this is gorgeous |
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| Not fond of the fish market. |
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| Mangosteens in front |
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| Pretty streets wherever you look |
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| Morning Glory cooking classes |
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| The fascinating Ms Vy |
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| Really proud of my parcels!! |
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| Cabbage soup- divine! |
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| How to make a spring roll -but make sure you go to the class to learn properly! |
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| I love morning glory so much, I can eat a whole plate to myself (after 5 other courses) |
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| Xuan, who makes beautiful clothes, and has an even more beautiful smile! |
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