Day 6: Not Everyone is a Cycling Fan!

We've never felt so welcomed!

After three very tough days cycling hundreds of kilometers, I think everyone was excited to have a "light" day of cycling and meet more of the children their fundraising supports! We started off the day cycling to Little School where we could not have asked for a better greeting. Dressed in some of their best outfits, the children showed off their talents including singing and dancing for all of us. It was hard not to be impressed. Well choreographed routines by children younger than half my wardrobe were amazing! It was also a wonderful opportunity to see how talented and creative these kids are.

Jazz hands!

 Some of the funding raised from the cyclists will go to support nutrition programs at the Little School. Perhaps for some, this might be the one meal a day that provides needed vitamins and protein to help them concentrate, stay active and give them the best opportunity to learn. The staff and students really showed their appreciation and in turn, were a bit...impressed themselves; it seems the idea that we chose to bike when we can afford a motorbike or car does not always translate. "So you sweat and bike for hours when you could afford to just get a taxi and get to the next spot in an hour?" While the staff appreciated our contribution and enthusiasm, I think we also left them with the impression that we are a bit crazy!

I don't see this working out...

Our next stop was the Home of Affection where we met with disabled children who will receive funding for a food program including daily milk and fruit to increase the nutritive content they receive. We had a chance to meet 2 GVN volunteers who have spend over a month working with these kids as well as their 24/7 caretakers who have a very challenging job of making sure these children are loved and taken care of. I think everyone left feeling fortunate for their health and by comparison, wealth- but also with the sense that it is absolutely possible to make an impact in the lives of others! 

Joy spreading her contagious enthusiasm to the kids!

With a bit more biking to do (and I'm happy to report at this point we now refer to a "bit" as being 40km!) everyone jumped back on their bikes to finish out the day's cycling. It was one of our longest days as after cycling for a few hours, we jumped in the vans to head to Tam Ky where further project visits and cycling awaits! I believe the several hour trip was a memorable one for all and while I take the blame for the music (who burns 5 cds and accidently makes them all the same? What can I say, it's a talent) I will not take the blame for the van to van theft of cold drinks.  Vietnam has no rule on beverages while NOT driving (we never condone drinking and driving!!) so the trip was much more entertaining as a result. "Oi Joy Oi!"

We know how to ride hard but we also know how to rest hard!

To support our cycling trip and donate to the Children's Fund, please visit http://www.gvnfoundation.org/programs/projects/vietnam/

Caitie Goddard
Program Development Coordinator
GVN Foundation