Sunday, I was hit with a small bout of heart ache, but recuperated by hitting the Tokyo Deli for sushi, then making my way to "Happy Spa." Here, I received a pedicure and a full body massage for around 10 dollars. My masseur was a little Vietnamese man who I could have likely eaten. He was, however, tremendously powerful-- jumping on the table, using his elbows, contorting my body in ways unimaginable, and so on. We met with Cheratien's friend, Kim, and along with her hilarious British pal, went dancing. We received some salsa lessons from the members of the band, who essentially told us we were spastic and needed help. Ha.

Monday-- the beginning of our final week of preparations before our students arrive. We, as a staff, are working hard to forge some order out of the sometimes chaos.

Our school is located on the banks of the Saigon River, which I have discovered is a hot spot for young locals in love. The Vietnamese version of "parking" is quite humorous, seeing as motorbikes don't afford much privacy. Still, along these banks in the evenings, motorbikes are stationed with cuddling couples whispering sweet nothings to one another.

Another highlight: Luc (a driver at the school) was providing me with some basic Vietnamese phrases. Upon attempting to say "Hello, how are you?," I called him "Mr. Shit." This little mishap clearly demonstrates the subtle nuance of the tones of this language, and how drastically wrong one can go!

This evening we went out for Korean and ice cream.

Much love to you all,
K