The last day, before the first day of my 2nd year

Now in Da Lat city, we made our way south of Dalat down the mountain to a valley of agriculture, towns and vast lush green scenery. The winds blew, we flew. At times wondering if this would be my last day - near misses exploring land as a passenger with an obviously experienced driver in rural traffic. A stop to view some lands witnessing coffee harvested by a trio of older women, one in a flowery outfit and navy blue sport coat, jacket reminiscent of one my grandmother would wear - all hard at work, kindly taking time to talk to my compadre about… well I’ll probably never know exactly, but smiles were exchanged and that’s all I need to know. 

We stopped in Duc Trong for a well deserved break for the drivers and passengers - some of us desperately needed to refuel, others it was a welcome reprieve from the trek - cool weather, white knuckles and the winding roads; some well paved and others could use some work and stretches being worked on. Lunch consisted of the best bahn mi thit nuong loaded with flavorful meats, herbs and the bread outside crispy as can be, washed down with iced tea and espresso. The territory all new and different from the other parts I’ve encountered on this trip, yet still lush and even more lively. I’m still trying to take it all in and keep writing about what’s next and what to reflect on. I ask myself how I got here - because I took a risk and some took a risk on me. I’m glad I’m here still. 

—

The jackfruit sweet as candy. 

The coffee as strong as can be. 

I said, can it be - can we? (Make it “home”) 

WE did.