Ready to go

Things for Thao have finally come together. Thanks to a lot of persistence and some work Thao and her father received their American Visas. On September 10th I will accompany Thao and Mr. Cong on their long journey to America.
Last week Cuong and I had the pleasure of visiting Thao at her home in Hung Yen. We were greeted by her father, uncle, grandfather, grandmother, grandfather's brother and her younger sister. We were honored by their hospitality and warmth. When I hopped off of my motorbike Thao waved, smiled and ran up and hugged me. Her sister looked on and I waved her over to join the hug.
Mr. Cong prepared a wonderful meal of chicken, shrimp, sticky rice, fish and vegetables. It was truly a feast. We spent the meal talking about the up-coming trip America. When I asked Thao if she is nervous, she said that she wasn't and she was excited about the flying on the plane and going to America. The entire family was delighted knowing Thao was going to America to receive the best treatment possible. Grandma continually thanked me for helping her granddaughter, she reached for my hand to pat and hold it throughout the meal. I was truly moved by the warmth of the entire family.
Half way through the meal Thao’s mother called from Twain. Cuong was able to talk to her a few minutes. She is very nervous about her daughter going to America. Apparently it took a lot of convincing from the other members in the family to allow her to go. Cuong did his best to reassure her that Thao would be in good hands. She said she knows it’s the right decision but it’s along way for her little girl to go.
After a few hours it was time for Cuong and me to head back to Ha Noi. We took a few family photos and said goodbye five times. It was a very toughing moment as I hugged grandma, then Thao, than Thao’s sister, then Thao and her sister and then her grandmother once again.
It was a wonderful afternoon.
~ Annetta