Reflections

It was a fruitful day today. No pun intended given the recent role played by some watermelons in my life. I had the usual lessons in school, although I had to really struggle to get out of bed this morning. My teacher was, as ever, very patient with me. She kept a straight face whenever I mispronounced certain words but I could see the twinkling in her eyes betraying silent laughter. Hehe. Glad I am bringing some joy to others each day I learn the language. On the plus side, I think I am making some progress. At least I think so. I hope so. I better.

What was different and fun today was my first visit to the history museum (Bao Tang Lich Su -lit: Museum of History). Many of us think we "know" Vietnam but this is usually based on what we see from Hollywood movies or from the books we read. But there is much more to know. Walking through the museum gave me a sense of Vietnam's rich and dynamic past. I will have to return to take my time to go through the exhibits. By the way, Ha Noi is big into museums. So if you are big into museums, Ha Noi is right up your alley.

So it was with great satisfaction that I walked to Ho Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Restored Sword) to grab a cup of Vietnamese black coffee (ca phe den) at a little cafe by the lake. That's where I got the shot of the sunlight through the trees. Nothing beats sipping coffee while watching people walking by. I also saw Vietnamese couples, young and old, sitting by the lake. Some of them were simply taking a breather before moving with their journey as well as their lives. Others were holding hands, obviously in love.

A great reflection of the daily lives of the Vietnamese people amidst the cacophony of noise and dust emanating from the chaotic roads.

Satisfied, I got up from my seat and took a slow walk back to my hotel. I did stop and had a bowl of Vietnamese beef noodles (Pho Bo). It tasted good.

It was a beautiful day and I am happy to be present to enjoy it.

I hope you had a good day too.

Till tomorrow.