Raising Casey

Walking through the photo display and exhibit of the War Remnants Museum was deeply moving and unforgettable. I wasn't born yet when the Vietnam War began in November 1955 but growing up I would have poignant memories about the horrors of this long-drawn-out war which lasted for 20 harrowing years. Amidst the heart-wrenching moment brought about by this brief trip to memory lane, though, were simple joys like the warmth of the people, the noise of scooters, the quiet beauty of their ubiquitous coffee shops with instagrammable appeal and the aroma of cilantro, an important spice that gives that distinct flavor to their unique cuisine. This wasn’t just a trip. It was a window into a country that has seen so much yet able to smile and show hospitality to visitors. Sugar Cane juice extracted directly from the sugar cane plant shown below.

                                                                                  Chapter 1:   The Loneliness Trap - How to Escape It   For many seniors, loneliness is not just a fleeting emotion. Loneliness has become a way of life. What initially starts as a few quiet days can turn into weeks, months, or even years of loneliness and isolation. The world outside feels distant as relationships fade and reaching out becomes more difficult. The loneliness trap is not just about being physically alone; it’s about feeling unseen, unheard, and disconnected from the world. The trap often happens unexpectedly. It can begin with a major life change like losing a spouse, retiring from a longtime job, or children leaving the family home. At first...

        On May 26, 2025, I will be traveling to Vietnam, particularly Saigon, (Ho Chi Minh City) for the first time. I will be going with Casey, her mom and dada  and a few close friends.      I'm excited to write about Ho Chi Minh City because I notice that most of the articles, travel blogs and stories published to promote Vietnam are mostly about Hanoi and all other cities that have become well-known tourist spots after the Vietnam War.       Ho Chi Minh City as it is popularly called today was formerly called Saigon. Before the War, Vietnam was divided into South Vietnam and North Vietnam. Saigon was the capital of South Vietnam and Hanoi was the capital of North Vietnam.      The airport in Ho Chi Minh City is called Than Son Naht International Airport. For me, it's very important to know where I will be landing after coming from my own country. This is the gateway to the southern part of Vietnam so any...