Hello my family ...

I tell you, this trip has been one amazing experience after another! I still cannot get over all I am seeing and doing. Today we went to the Mekong Delta ... rode in a boat across the river, saw lots of floating markets, went into a village along the river to watch them make rice popcorn (extremely primitive experience), wound through very narrow parts of the Delta (Jim, a Vet was explaining how this was prime ambush territory during the war). 

We ate lunch at a spot along the river ... had fried elephant fish, soup, shrimp, a shot of rice whiskey (homemade) and a Tiger Beer®. Tiger Beer is the best beer they have here. From what I understand, our troops drank lots of it, but I also heard they'd drink lots of whatever beer was available. After lunch, several of us opted to hold a cobra snake ... yep, I had that thing wrapped around my neck, but I had a hard time holding onto his head. A little freaky, but I figured when else would I have the chance to do this. After the snake experience, and another trip to the "water closet" (bathroom), we got into those little canoe-like boats, put on the straw hats (basically the tourist bit) and were paddled up the river to catch our boat. I am trying to take lots of pictures, which won't do justice to all we are experiencing.

Luckily, Gary, the husband of a "daughter" (who didn't want to make the trip herself ... she stayed home), is documenting every step of the way. So one day, we'll have video tape to share. I cannot tell you how many times I think about how much all of you would be enjoying this experience. The sights, smells, textures ... EVERYTHING is so new. It is like sensory overload all the time!

I have tasted all foods put in front of me. Even those that look a little scarey, like dragon fruit (pink spiky looking "shell" on the outside with white fruit dotted with black specks on the inside) that tastes like kiwi.

Tonight we are going to a restaurant called Buffalo Boy (named after the actual boys who ride Buffalo)... then I believe a group of us will go to a bar called "Apocalypse Now". Supposed to ge a great place. Tomorrow we are off to the VC tunnels.

As I have told you before, the group we are with is awesome. Such diversity ... all ages (from early 30's to I am guessing late 70's). In addition to veterans, "sons", "daughters" and "widows" there are five "moms". There are several clergy members, sisters, brothers, and a brother and sisters. No one is ever lacking for conversation and everyone gets along great! Lots of laughs, a few tears and so much fun!

We are told that we are being spoiled here in Saigon. That the real Vietnam awaits. I think we saw some today, but I know it will be tough later. Someone described this as part "Survivor" and part "Road Rules". I'll keep you posted.

You are all on my mind all the time.

How extremely fortunate I feel having such a wonderful family! And how blessed I am to live the life I do ... You know the amazing thing about seeing so much poverty is that the people are happy. So many many smiles.

LOTS AND LOTS OF LOVE, HUGS AND KISSES!

Cammie/Mom/The Bug

Copyright 2003, Cammie Geoghegan Olson, 
daughter of 2LT John L Geoghegan, KIA, Nov 15, 1965.

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Copyright 2003 Camille Geoghegan Olson. Camille Geoghegan Olson grants permission for this letter, in part or in whole, to be reprinted provided she is properly attributed and notified. Email will be forwarded by webmaster@VirtualWall.org