 Tracy Hoag - KidsBuildingHope | All Comments |
Comments | |
| 22nd October 2008 Sue Akers | Good people do Good things. - From: New Work on the Horizon Love you. I Also think The Hoags are a great family. Hope you share the next trip as you did the last one, we all felt so close to each adventure. Hugs to all . SUE |
| 23rd May 2008 Justin Huynh | Thank you - From: parting thoughts... I was delighted to read your every step of this journey. Thank you for helping to keep the kids hopes and dreams to become realities. God bless all of you and may the best of luck to be with you all, always. Once again, thank you for making this happen. |
| 21st May 2008 Jane S. Lupia | ...You're building our hope too..... - From: parting thoughts... What a beautiful "project" for a family to embark on . To all contribute and give so endlessly to those you don't know; what a lesson you have taught the world. I pray your family continues these kinds of effort---we are all watching--the US, with all our "blessings", needs to extend to the world. Kudos to Karly and family for this beautiful gesture of love. God be with and bless you all. |
| 9th April 2008 B Huynh | Thank you - From: parting thoughts... I'm really admire what you have done for so many people. I don't think I can put it in word for what want to say but thank you. |
| 8th April 2008 Bill Atkinson | Summation - From: parting thoughts... Great summation! |
| 4th April 2008 JoyceAnn | - From: parting thoughts... Congratulations on your journey! Best wishes to all on your return trip.... |
| 3rd April 2008 liz and family | - From: parting thoughts... what a wonderful ending to a wonderful trip!! I think of how we all have been touched by this journey that was, in reality, so far removed from us. Just think all of the people whos lives you have touched by doing what you have done! Thank you for letting us all be in on this with you and doing all of the leg work. i don't think any of us will forget the way you have taken us through this amazing experience. GREAT WORK!!!! |
| 3rd April 2008 Sue Akers | Greetings - From: parting thoughts... Tracy, David, Wil and Helen: You all are so very special.,and to share this part of your lives with us is such a treasure. Thank you for the adventure. Thank you for you great photos and wonderful diary. Thank you for being who you all are. SUE |
| 3rd April 2008 Rebecca McCurdy | Thank You! - From: parting thoughts... I cannot thank you enough for taking the time to write your descriptions, to add your pictures, to take us along as much as possible on this incredible trip. Thank you for allowing our hearts to be touched vicariously by all that you were experiencing first-hand. Thank you for the generosity of spirit that made you go in the first place, and the generosity of spirit that allowed you learn and to SEE all that is happening, so we could learn and see too. |
| 3rd April 2008 Cyndi O'Donnell | - From: The Big Day WOW- what a fantastic culmination of so much hard work! You all must feel so proud. The descriptive journal entry and beautiful photos really captured the joy of your day. Congratulations!! Cyndi |
| 2nd April 2008 Kalyn and Family | - From: The Big Day Wow what an amazing experince! The kids looked thrilled to have you there and recieve something so simple as school supplies. It seems like an experience you will remember for a lifetime! Can't wait to see you and hear more about it! Have a safe journey home!! |
| 2nd April 2008 Nicole Putignano | Hi Zalenski Crew! - From: The whole group is here!! Hello everyone! Mollie just sent the blog to Aunt Bonnie and she passed it along to me. How exciting!!!! Carly, words cannot describe what you have done! You should be so proud of yourself. Have an amazing adventure and take care. I would love to hear more about all of this when you return. Love, your cousins Mark, Nicole, and Ana in Cincinnati |
| 2nd April 2008 Uncle Jim | - From: The Big Day It has been fun and exciting to following your adventures each day. We are all proud and impressed by your accomplishment. |
| 2nd April 2008 Joy Cicchinelli | Bundle of Emotions - From: The Big Day Carly & Company - Thanks to each and every one of you for the most wonderful experience of sharing your trip through your blog. Each day I came into work and clicked on your blog anticipating what new travels were in store during your trip. It is through my tears that I am typing this with such great pride in the end result of your blood, sweat and tears. I heard your presentation to the Gregory Foundation and was most impressed with your passion. You should be so proud of reaching this dream. God Bless all of you! |
| 2nd April 2008 Steve | - From: The Big Day Congradulations to all for a great job and one which will touch so many! Steve |
| 2nd April 2008 Mars. Gruber | So Happy for You and PROUD! - From: The Big Day What a wonderful day for your group! You have been on our minds all day. We said special prayers for all of you today and the kindergarteners and the second graders from Our Lady of Peace went to Mass today to pray for all of you and especially for the children at the new school! We will be eager to see you! |
| 2nd April 2008 Maggie | Wow - From: Eye-opening Experiences I can't believe the oficers wouldn't let you give FOOD to the community. Oh, well. Its still going to a good cause. I am so excited that (even though I am in Canton) I was a part of this! Carly: Our teacher made us write a nonfiction composition about anything nonfiction to send to some newspaper in hopes that they will publish it. I wrote mine about Kids Building hope. The tough part was getting it under 250 words! We at the Murphy house miss all of you guys soo much! Can't wait to hear from you! |
| 2nd April 2008 Aunt Bonnie | - From: Eye-opening Experiences I love reading the entries and studying the pictures. You are having such an adventure! Stay well and home safe. |
| 1st April 2008 Ally | looks totally awsome!=] - From: Eye-opening Experiences hey zalenski's!!it looks like your having a wonderful time over there. im really excited to find out about the school deditaction tomarow. the pictures are phenomenal! ive been to fish farms but nothing like that before. it would be really cool to witness such an amazing thing!Carly= every one at school is wishing you a exciting time and a safe trip home. we got the showcase assignment todayand me and carly are in act two ! cant wait till i see you all again ! peace to all -Ally |
| 1st April 2008 The Bankys | We're thinking about you today! - From: Eye-opening Experiences It seems like you have been gone forever. You all seem to be working so hard. . . I am glad you have found some time for fun. We miss you guys and are looking forward to seeing you soon. Happy Birthday to DeeDee! |
| 1st April 2008 Debby Bentivegna | AWESOME! - From: Eye-opening Experiences Happy Easter, Zalenski's and family! It has been truly inspiring to read your adventures: exciting, scary, beautiful, devastating, sad, joyful, and on and on. Thank you so much for letting us experience this with you. I can't imagine what the dedication was like! Be safe! We'll be awaiting your safe return. God bless you all! Debby and family |
| 1st April 2008 Robin Snow | - From: Eye-opening Experiences Hi, Carly! It's hard to believe that you're halfway around the world - but what an adventure! Just looking at these pictures has been a real eye-opening experience - I hope you can share more with us when you get back. You're doing a wonderful thing! Have a safe trip home, Mrs. Snow |
| 1st April 2008 liz | congratulations!! - From: Not all fun and games Have a great time today! This is what you have worked so hard for. Carly, enjoy this-you deserve it for all you have done. You are going to change so many children and families lives for the better with all of your hard working hands and huge hearts. Can't wait to hear about it!!! |
| 1st April 2008 Jan Leach | Thanks for sharing your trip with so many in US - From: a little R & R Tracy,Will and Helen, Have read with interest and awe of your fascinating ,busy,and memorable trip. Yes ,Tracy you write just like you talk--much enthusiasm and very descriptive. Sue M and I have been following you all and certainly go from "ahhs" with the scenery to "I can't beleive these living and working conditions !" Truly we are so impressed with all that you as a unit have done and continue prayers for 4/1 to be a dedication beyond belief! Our prayers continue for safe journeys home. |
| 31st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | some answers - From: What a long strange trip it's been! Fun? Yes Didn't try the cocnut filled with beef -- Helen did -- she liked the beef. I have tried coconut milk though -- didn't like the texture -- but it tasted good. I drink lots of water (it's very hot here). they make watermelon juice here -- it's OK. Guava juice is green -- I didn't like that very much. I've been drinking some Sprite here (more than my Mom lets me have at home) because we rarely eat candy or dessert -- so Pop is a real treat. Strangest thing -- I saw a blue-headed lizard at the beach and a tong lung (don't know how to spell) in our hotel. It is a little lizard who lives in buildings and eats insects. I saw some squid in the fish farm and oddly on our plates. Not speaking the language is hard and strange. Vietnam is much hotter, and it is definitely more crowded. Some kids like to play just like at home -- other kids have to work -- selling stuff or making stuff. The best thing i've liked is watching the men fish today -- it looked like fun, but hard, work. I'm having fun -- but I miss home. Will |
| 31st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | hi from vietnam - From: a little R & R Hey Baumoels, Good to hear from you guys. This trip has been such a wonderful experience -- very hard at times but worth every minute. We head off to the school dedication tomorrow and get to meet the kids and families -- it should be great! Looking forward to getting home to some Winking Lizard wings and burgers! We have become quite fond of Tiger Beer - maybe the Lizard will start to carry it. We head for home in a day and a half and will be home on Thursday afternoon. Wish us luck with the big trip with all those kids! Miss you guys and see you soon. Kris & Fred Carly, Abby & Jake |
| 31st March 2008 OLP Grade 2 | Hello! - From: What a long strange trip it's been! We are back from vacation and got to see the photos and log ins as a class. Are you having fun? Did you like the coconut filled with the beef? What do you drink? What is the strangest thing you have experienced? Is Vietnam anything like America? What is the best thing you liked? Love, Grade 2 and Miss Durbin |
| 31st March 2008 Mady | coffee - From: David's Last Day in HCMC hey girly- miss ya (mucho)lol spanish!! anyway thats cool that they use the park as a common space for exercise! neato!! well did the coffee taste good? i bet it was sounds good!! after you told me at school about iced coffee i got some at the store it tastes so good yumm!! Heaven's Palace was also really cool and yeah i would have liked the palace to me mine too haha!! well i will keep checking in with the blogs and the pictures!!! Carly's #1 fan love ya girly muah- mady |
| 31st March 2008 Baumoels | frustrating! - From: Eye-opening Experiences Hey Zalenski's and family - We read your 3/31 entry and felt frustrated about the local officials stopping you from distributing the noodles...probably happens more than we realize. Anyway, glad that you thought of a different way to use the food. From Livi: Hey Carly and Abby! Hope your having fun. I loved the pictures of the things you have been experiencing. Can't wait untill you get home and good luck with the school dedication! Love you guys! From Griffin:Hi Jake, I hope you're having a good time. I can't wait untill you get back so we can play outside after school again. It looks like you're doing cool things from the pictures. Jack and I really miss you! |
| 31st March 2008 Mady | hey - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 hey girly-im glad u r having fun! that was cool how u drank the coconuts milk! i know that was random but when i was on vacation we got a coconut and we brought it home? lol did it taste good? Carly are you geting my comments?- i miss you come home well tell your family i said hi!! and i keep checking for more pictures and blogs mady |
| 30th March 2008 JoyceAnn | - From: Not all fun and games Tracy -- I'm reminded of our trip to the senior center when we were 10 and how impacted you were! I can only imagine how these little souls have touched you now. Thank you for sharing your experiences.... it is a reminder of the wealth we have here, and how we need to be thankful. Sounds like this trip will have a lasting effect on everyone. Stay safe.... |
| 30th March 2008 Uncle Dave | So glad you're safe! - From: What a long strange trip it's been! Hey guys, I've been eagerly awaiting to see where you'll pop up next. I'm so happy you've made it to the school. What a great experience, for all you've been through. I love and miss you all. |
| 30th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | hello Lizzy - From: a little R & R hey Liz -- well let me just tell you ... hot is an understatement. The worst part is -- it is so misleading because of the ocean breeze. Needless to say -- many a child was sunburned this weekend. As far as the crowding -- it is not... at all. In fact the water park felt a bit Twilight Zonish -- at least there were no lines. the beaches had a handful of people... but overall a nice break. many strange frustrations as the resort seems to be figuring the whole tourist thing out -- but who can complain in that setting??? Miss you guys. T |
| 30th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | emily- - From: a little R & R hey! we are having fun! how is your break going??? miss you lots! can't wait to see you! love you, carly and abby |
| 30th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | hey mady! - From: Not all fun and games hey girl! glad to hear from you! i know- the kids loved your bears!!! keep sending me stuff!! and tell jamie and courtney to too!! how was puerto rico??? |
| 30th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | hey mady! - From: Not all fun and games hey girl! glad to hear from you! i know- the kids loved your bears!!! keep sending me stuff!! and tell jamie and courtney to too!! how was puerto rico??? |
| 30th March 2008 Baumoels | this is so great - From: a little R & R Hi Zalenskis and family! We caught up on your adventures and you seem like you are doing great. We especially like how Jake and Will jumped right in there to play with the kids. Here are a few questions: What are your favorite dishes to eat so far?? How many people took care of the kids at the orphange and how old can the kids be before they have to leave?? Are you learning any of the language?? We look forward to the school dedication (you know...the school that Nathan insists that Carly owns) and we hope that you stay safe and sound until you reach good old Canton. We love you guys... |
| 30th March 2008 Liz | beautiful!!! - From: a little R & R WOW--what else can you say? I am sure that was a welome switch from the craziness of HCMC. How hot was it? Were there many other people there? Good luck this week-you know we are all thinking and praying for you. Keep up the good work! |
| 30th March 2008 Mady | i see my bears - From: Not all fun and games CARLY :)- hey looking at the pics of abby at the orphanage!!! that makes me really happy!!! you have no idea!!! that made me tear up well thats VERY sad that there are many severely handicapped children!!! CARLYS NUMBER ONE FAN love ya girly muahhh!!! |
| 30th March 2008 Mady | love - From: Not all fun and games CARLYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!! i am so proud of You. wat u do is amazing i mad cause i cant call you.:( and well tell your family hi for me and tell them that i miss them too!! Oh and for everyone that commented.. well.. im carlys number one fan so ha.. lol. but serious that was sad ok well i guess its morning for you there idk but i love ya girly miss ya lots!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| 29th March 2008 emily | - From: a little R & R hey guys... its emily... wow! it looks like you guys are having fun...and that place (the beach) looks beautiful!:] hope all of you are having fun...:] |
| 29th March 2008 The Knochs | Hope You Are Having Fun! - From: A day about the town Thanks for sending these great photos. We anxiously await everyday to see more exciting things! So proud of our cousins for what they are doing! Keep up the great work! Love Sarah and Kristina |
| 29th March 2008 Dzia Dzia, Nana and Jim | Glad that you are enjoyin some R&R - From: a little R & R After not hearing from you for a couple of days, we wondered what was going on and are glad to hear from you again. It sounds like everyone is doing well and enjoying themselves. We look forward to hearing first-hand about your adventures. Is Jake getting in any baseball practice? |
| 29th March 2008 Jennifer (Hospice) | So Interesting - From: a little R & R Hi Tracy, Will and Helen I am thoroughly enjoying reading the blog - you are a great writer and story-teller Tracy! I can't wait to hear more in person when you get back. It's like a good book I can't put down. I hope you continue to have a great time with great experiences - awaiting the next entry, Jennifer P.S. I'm with Will - I'd have eyes wide open for the Pizza Hut. Ate at NorthStar last night and thought of you! |
| 29th March 2008 Mrs. Gruber | What a beautiful place! - From: a little R & R So thrilled to hear from you and be in on all you are doing! Love the "cute" little creature! |
| 29th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Good point - From: Not all fun and games I didn't mean in any way to imply that it was the taxi driver's problem... it was ours! We are constantly amazed at how willing everyone is to try hard to communicate with us, work with us, help us -- even though we cannot speak the language. I guess I was just trying to illustrate how much we take for granted in the US. And, as I said before -- Will wanted the comfort and security of home -- he just didn't know how to say it. Not once have any of us felt unsafe -- unsure definitely -- but always very safe. Being outside of one's comfort zone only means one thing for sure -- growth!! Thank you for your perspective. Much love, T |
| 29th March 2008 Jess | - From: Not all fun and games I think it's really great you guys got to visit them there! I never even realized how bad it is! |
| 28th March 2008 Neo | positives - From: Not all fun and games I am sorry in advance if my comments offend anyone. I would imagine that the kids at the orphanage were very happy that they had nice and kind visitors. They would probably thank you for entering their orphanage and entering their life...As for the taxi driver who said "no" to Pizza Hut: I think he may have meant he didn't know where the store was. Not many Vietnamese people eat pizzas because foreign food like pizzas and burgers are more expensive than Vietnamese food. I believe Pizza Hut opened its first store in Vietnam last year and perhaps a few Vietnamese out of every thousands would know where a Pizza Hut store is, especially migrant taxi drivers...As for the safety comment, I think it is not about safety but more about comfort. As you guys are venturing outside/on the border of your comfort zone, it's not easy. Especially when you don't know the language, it's not uneasy not knowing what is going on. I hope the rest of your trip will be smoother and more upbeat :) |
| 27th March 2008 Meek | Goood Morming Vietnam! - From: The whole group is here!! Hello family "Z". This blog is great, thanks for the link. What an undertaking truely an admirable project. Enjoy your time in SE Asia. Keep the pics coming. How are the spring break crowds? Be safe. |
| 27th March 2008 Bonnie | wow - From: Not all fun and games I have tears in my eyes and a pain in my heart just reading this. I can't imagine what it was for all of you to be there. The little girl with Helen looks so sweet, Ruby makes that same expression. It makes me want to go wake her up and hug her again. Thank you for making a small difference in her life today. We never know how God will use even our slightest efforts.... |
| 27th March 2008 Kalyn | - From: Not all fun and games Hey Abby! Arizona's great,...but what is tai chi???!!!???Hope your having fun. Be safe! |
| 26th March 2008 Claire | so sad - From: Not all fun and games I would be sad too. THERE IS PIZZA HUT THERE:) TH AT IS SO SAD ABOUT THE KIDS:( |
| 26th March 2008 Jim & Gayle | Hey Kris & Fred - From: The whole group is here!! Glad to hear (& see the pictures) you all made it safely. This is so facinating to be able to see & read all that is going on (well, probably not all). So glad you are sharing it with us!!! Be safe!! |
| 26th March 2008 Bill Atkinson | Thanks. - From: Not all fun and games I have enjoyed following your trip via your "blog".Keep up the good work. |
| 26th March 2008 Sue Akers | - From: Not all fun and games Will is so "right on". Be safe. Thanks to all of you for sharing your adventure. Hugs to all. SUE |
| 26th March 2008 Zoe | wow - From: Not all fun and games Hi ! I love reading your blog. You can count on me reading it everyday. I can't wait to read about the day you go to the school. Love, Zoe |
| 26th March 2008 Kalyn | - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Hey Abby i saw your pictures!! A 2 1/2 bus ride??Gesh!!Hope your having fun! I'll keep checking the blog for more pictures!! |
| 26th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | - From: The whole group is here!! Hey Kalyn! How's Arizona? We're having a great time...and I found out what Ti Chi is, so ask me about it. Talk to you soon! Love, Abby |
| 26th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Hey Jac! Well, I didn't eat the flaming coconut but it looked really cool...I hope you're having fun in North Carolina. We're having a great time here. Talk to you soon! Love, Abby |
| 26th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Hey Jac! Well, I didn't eat the flaming coconut but it looked really cool...I hope you're having fun in North Carolina. We're having a great time here. Talk to you soon! Love, Abby |
| 26th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Hey Jess! We are having an amazing time, it's so different here! It's been fun to see the differences though. Hope you're having fun in Ohio, see you soon! Love, Abby |
| 26th March 2008 Steve Gregory | Thanks for the update - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Carly and Abby, thanks for the pictures and description of your second day in Nam. Hope your trip continues be be as fun and informitive as the first days! Say hi to all! Steve |
| 26th March 2008 Jess | - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Hey Abby! Just checked out this sight and I saw your new pictures! Looks like you're having fun! Love you be safe and have fun! |
| 26th March 2008 David (dad) | Wow, Helen had a flaming coconut?! - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Helen, we'll have to serve flaming coconuts at home more often!! The playground looked like fun, Will! I miss you guys! |
| 25th March 2008 Jacque | - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Greetings from North Carolina!! I can see that you are all having a great time, and hope to see some more of them soon.! Abby, I was just wondering how that flaming coconut was?!? I hope all is well! --Jacque |
| 25th March 2008 Aunt Kellie | What are you going to eat Abby??? - From: Carly and Abby's Perspective -- Day 2 Hello everyone! Glad you got there safe and sound. Abby, I have to admit that I am a little worried about you. I hope you packed some candy bars just in case. Your cousins say hello and are enjoying the blog every day. Hope you had a nice Easter (or did you just skip Easter with that one day delay?). Keep us posted on your activities. Love you! |
| 25th March 2008 Kalyn | - From: The whole group is here!! Hey Abby its Kalyn! I keep checking the blog for pictures of you!! I wanna see what ur doing. Hope your having fun!! Miss you so much!! |
| 25th March 2008 Jacque | - From: The whole group is here!! Hey Abby, I hope you're having a fun trip! I am going to keep checking for pictures and blogs...so keep me posted! Hope your family is having a fun time! --Jacque |
| 25th March 2008 Pris/Nana | - From: Hoags to Ha Long Bay Wow, Tracy, you are so good to give us all this information - I am sure you must be exhausted at the end of the day. I am glad that the rest of the family made it there safely. I LOVE seeing pictures of you. I can''t believe all the things the kids are eating and doing -you are all amazing and wonderful. I miss you and LOVE each of you and wish you a great time at the school. XOXOXO from Cleveland!!! |
| 25th March 2008 The Murphy's | - From: The whole group is here!! Hey Zalenski's It is lonely in the hood without you. Glad to hear you made it there safe and Abby had lots of favorite foods to choose from for her first meal. We can't wait to hear all about it!! |
| 25th March 2008 Kelly Mertz | Glad to Hear that you are Safe and Sound - From: The whole group is here!! Hi Kris, Fred, and gang. So glad to hear that you all arrived safely. Sounds like crazy travels and interesting culinary delights upon arrival. Wow, we are so proud of Carly and the rest of you for making this excursion and dedicating this school. You all are an inspiration. Please take good care of yourselves and each other and keep us posted. Love, Rob, Kelly and kiddos. |
| 25th March 2008 Steve & Scott | On Your Trip - From: The whole group is here!! Hello Zalenski family, we are glad to see that you have made it safe and sound despite the long travels. Keep us posted on pics and all the good times there. We also wanted to take this time to tell Carly that we are proud of her as well as all others involved. Have a great time and we'll see you back in the states ;-)...PS please bring home some warm weather with you..lol...it was a blazing 38 degrees here today. |
| 25th March 2008 Jess | - From: The whole group is here!! Hey Abby, it's Jess! I was just checking in. No pictures of you on here yet so I'll be waiting for those! Let me know how everything goes. Be safe and have fun! Love you, bye! |
| 25th March 2008 Jess | - From: The whole group is here!! Hey Abby, it's Jess! I was on the computer and I wanted to check out your blog. I'll keep looking at it and I'll be waiting for some pictures! I wanna see how you're doing. Well I miss you and I love you! Be safe and have fun! |
| 25th March 2008 Kalyn | - From: The whole group is here!! hey Abby!!its Kalyn!! How was the long plane ride? I've been looking at the travel blog everyday. Hope you have a great time! |
| 24th March 2008 Chad | Hello from Chad and Family - From: The whole group is here!! hi jake this is chad!!!!!!im sending this message from Florida!!!!!!!what was in the cave???????send pictures of things you did!!!!!!! have fun and send pictures of the school. was the flight too long?????my mom told us everyday you were still flying.!!!!!! |
| 24th March 2008 Rebecca McCurdy | You're So Brave - From: Hoags to Ha Long Bay Dear Tracy - You are amazing... I remember when we went to Moscow how off-kilter I felt for the first few days... I can't imagine doing that without my husband and with two small children... What a completely mind-blowing experience this all must be. Beki |
| 24th March 2008 megan Wereley | Amazing! - From: David's Last Day in HCMC We've been reading every entry with interest and checking for new ones with anticipation! What an interesting trip you are having! |
| 24th March 2008 Ann Drysdale | thank-you! - From: David's Last Day in HCMC Hello Tracy and David---I am just back today from being away for my mother's memorial service. I can't tell you how much reading your blog(s) means to me. You both write exactly as you talk! It is like having you in my office with me, which is what I need right now. I can't wait to share these with the man I have been dating for a few years--- he flew Medevac helicoptors in the Vietnam war. Thank-you for including me! |
| 23rd March 2008 Joyce Ann | - From: A day about the town I've noticed there was no blog entry regarding the flight over! I hope everyone survived. Thanks for sharing your incredible vacation with us. I love finding a new journal entry in my in-box. Gosh, my business trip to Omaha this past week sure does pale in comparison.... HA! Best wishes for continued fun. Safe travels to you all..... |
| 23rd March 2008 Betty & Pieter | Amazing! - From: A day about the town Can't express how much I am enjoying the details of your travels. Pieter has said many times that he would like to return for a visit and I have to say you have made it seem almost like something I might consider doing! Safe travels to you, and keep us posted on the adventure. |
| 22nd March 2008 Susan and Lee Hughes | Shopping Protocols Inquiry - From: First Day First, we are delighted to see your blog. Thanks for taking the time to share. Second, we returned in early March from month in New Zealand and 4 days in Singapore. Re: Asian vendors calling out to potential buyers: We are "big people" and even we were a bit intimidated by the vendors. In Singapore at least, they come out of their store to engage you and really "chat." ("I not pushy...I just old lady needs sell...you like?....what you pay?....and on and on.) Your DeeDee will affirm that Mrs. Hughes makes almost no decisions quickly...always want to think about it. My reaction was really retreat. But here's an interesting thing we learned: Chinese are very superstitious about the first customer of the day. That person should buy something, or the shop owner thinks the day is very bad. A polite shopper should not enter and not buy at least a token. After we learned about this custom...we made sure to return to the "I no pushy"-lady's shop later. We made sure she was told that her customers from two mornings ago when she opened did come back and did buy. The aggressiveness of the vendors and the negotiating of price were very interesting to us. We were surprised at our own discomfort with the shopping experience. Third, I encourage you to write in your blog what food dishes you like. We thought the Chinese, Indian, Thai food was all great. But now that we're home we can't remember some of the very interesting combinations we enjoyed so much. The food chain "Thai Express" had good food, we thought. Wondering if you'll see one of those. Happy Easter. We look forward to the next installment. DeeDee is flying to you as I write this. Please give her a special message of love from Sue and Lee. Bye. |
| 22nd March 2008 Miss G | Love your blog - From: David's Last Day in HCMC Hi Will and Helen (Mr and Mrs Hoag too)...What a wonderful experience you are having! I love following your adventures, especially the ones that are science related. The 5th graders had a plant tasting party and we had dried dragon fruit. It was so cool to see a picture of one and find out how it really tastes. Will, great palm tree pictures. Thanks for sharing. Miss G. |
| 22nd March 2008 Betty & Pieter | WOW! - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Can't tell you how much we're enjoying the photos and blow-by-blow descriptives of your trip. Pieter has alway said he wants to return someday. Your blog may convince me to join him! Thanks for educating us all on this very interesting culture. |
| 21st March 2008 Thanh Armagost | - From: David's Last Day in HCMC Yes Tracy I'll see you soon, it will be wonderful to see you and the kids again. I am so glad that you are having a good time and everything is going fine. Thanh |
| 21st March 2008 Mom/DeeDee | We are all packed..So excited - From: David's Last Day in HCMC Hi Hoags...What a great last day. The time just flew for me, I suppose it did for you too. Safe travel, David. Tracy, have a safe and wonderful trip to Hanoi and HaLong Bay. We will see you Monday for dinner at the Majestic. Can't wait. Love, Mom/DeeDee |
| 21st March 2008 Ryan Higgins | KARAOKE!!! - From: David's Last Day in HCMC Well it sounds like a great day to have as a last day, I know Dave was excited about karaoke from how many times he told me about how he was gonna finally be a rockstar! You need to fill us in on what song he belted out for his inagural karaoke experience. Besides that you guys have fun on the rest of your trip and don't worry I will keep Dave out of trouble in Columbus, okay maybe you should worry! Have fun on the rest of your trip! |
| 21st March 2008 Rebecca McCurdy | We are loving this trip! - From: David's Last Day in HCMC BBQ'd goat sounds great... it's Southern Viet Name, right? I would have a little trouble with the squid! So glad for the picture of the whole family to hang here at hospice. Keep the good news coming! |
| 21st March 2008 Maryke and boys | - From: A day about the town The pictures are great. I can totally see Will and Helen loving the orphanage. Did it break your heart? 130 children, I would have adopted a few right on the spot. Like everyone else we love the detail of your blog. David- safe travels. Tracy- safe vacationing. It seems you are well taken care of. Everyday makes me wish I were there with you! |
| 21st March 2008 Kim | - From: A day about the town Wow, you had so many adventures in one day! That "skinny" house is amazing. I'm glad you got to go out to dinner with Neo's family. I completely agree that his mom would be delighted to play host to a little girl after years of all boys! And the thought of Will hosting the international soccer goodwill games made me smile. |
| 21st March 2008 Ryan | You would - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Really the best you could come up with for the elephant fish was a glorified tastes like chicken what a cop-out, just kiddin, it definetly makes a good centerpiece for a meal! |
| 21st March 2008 Ryan Higgins | That a girl Helen - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Thats so cool that you guys all enjoyed holding the python, if you get a snake handling urge when you get back to the states you can get together with Hodge, I just talked to him and he now has five snakes and is about to buy five more, he is starting to breed them! The blog is geat keep the updates coming. |
| 21st March 2008 Ryan Higgins | Looks like fun - From: A day about the town It looks like you guys are havin an awesome time! Thats too funny that Will got whipped on by some kid who didnt have any shoes and I imagine didnt have a soccer ball either, well he needed to learn that if he wants to take his game international then he is going to have to step up his skills! Besides that keep enjoying it while you can and dont forget to try the different foods thu suggested! |
| 21st March 2008 Mom/Pris/Nana | Thank you - From: A day about the town Thank you for sharing all these wonderful, funny and heart-warming experiences with us. Each day I look forward to seeing pictures of you and where you have been. What an awesome family you are - "I'm so lucky" !!! Happy Easter from here and lots of hugs and love from me. XOXOXOXO Mom |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Hello Lizzy - From: A day about the town I agree -- doing the blog makes everyone at home seem close to us as well... a weird sensation for sure. David is out right now with our friend Viet riding around town on a motorbike to get the last drip out of HCMC before leaving tomorrow. I can't believe he's leaving -- I'm going to miss him. We'll be in touch! |
| 21st March 2008 Rebecca McCurdy | Keep it coming! - From: A day about the town Dear Hoags - all of us at hospice are totally enjoying your blog. Keep it coming... we appreciate so much you taking the time to carry us with you on this chance of a lifetime adventure. How precious to have such wonderful time with Neo's family. It made me very homesick for our sweet Tang from Thailand. I am amazed by your generosity in taking the time and energy to prepare this for us. Beki |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Hi Neo!! - From: A day about the town Your Dad was not grumpy in the slightest -- Will on the other hand -- well, you know Will... Anyway -- it was so incredibly cool to meet them, to be in your home, to hang with Viet. We actually just spent this whole day with him -- Zoo, Karaoke, coffee shop (your favorite I hear -- it was beautiful!) and then water puppets. He and David are out right now on Viet's motorbike -- yikes! We wish you were here!! |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | - From: A day about the town Thanh -- we get to see you soon -- don't we? I feel like you are here -- I hear about Madame Thanh, Aunt Thanh, Dr. Thanh frequently. You have thought of everything. |
| 21st March 2008 liz | - From: A day about the town you don't realize how much we look forward to reading about all of you experiences. You make this trip of a lifetime seem so close to home. I think David leaves soon for home and the rest of the gang leaves for HCMC soon. Safe travels to everyone. i can't wait to see the pictures of the school dedication! (by the way-it is 25 degrees and cold here-please bring back some sun!! :) |
| 21st March 2008 Neo | - From: A day about the town Glad you had a great day and met some nice people in addition to my family...I am imagining Will playing soccer with Vietnamese kids. That is so cool. Kids are so great, since they can make friends and like people genuinely. I hope my dad wasn't too grumpy as a host - now you know where my grumpiness comes from...hee hee... |
| 21st March 2008 Mrs. Gruber | The Blog - From: A day about the town We are all enjoying the blog! We have been missing Helen at school! What a wonderful trip you are having! |
| 21st March 2008 Thanh & Neal Armagost | - From: A day about the town Your blog is great .We wish we were back in Vietnam with you. |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | - From: Side Trip from Saigon We were served JackFruit -- Helen says it looks like yellow peppers .. but Will didn't eat it. (I did -- it was kind of creamy, flowery.) Weirdest food -- he says it was rice paper -- because it was odd to be eating paper. |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Hi Aunt Kellie - From: Side Trip from Saigon We met some kids at an orphanage yesterday. Helen says they spoke English -- but I didn't hear them speaking it. Will played soccer with a few of the boys -- and Helen passed out candy. |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Hi Claire - From: Trip to Unicorn Island The conical hats are worn by a lot of the women to keep the sun off of their faces. Danh tells me that she doesn't want her skin to get any darker -- so she covers her skin as much as she can. As far as the houses go -- we've seen all kinds. The houses by the river -- did look mainly like that picture. The houses in Ho Chi Minh City are all different -- but usually tall and skinny in varying degrees of repair. |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Elephant Fish - From: Trip to Unicorn Island We ate it wrapped in rice paper. It tasted salty and squishy like chicken. And no, my Mom did not hold the python -- the rest of us did though. |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Python - From: Trip to Unicorn Island I'm afraid he won't fit in my suitcase!! |
| 21st March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Snake report - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Will says it felt like a scale covered muscle. Helen says it was scaley and smooth. David says he thinks it weighed about 30pounds. Tracy says he looked enormous from a distance! On the island the kids also saw a monkey, a gibbon, a turtle (all in cages). We have also seen some water buffalo grazing in the fields -- and dogs and cats running around. We miss you. |
| 20th March 2008 Maryke and boys | Helen you are so BRAVE!! - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Helen- I must know, how did the snake feel? Did it feel lumpy? Did it feel smooth? Was it heavy and slimy? I also want to know if you saw any animals on the boat ride. I can't wait to read the next blog and I hope you and Will are having a great time. Love you. Tristan |
| 20th March 2008 Aunt Pam | It's Amazing - From: Side Trip from Saigon I'm really enjoying your blog and the great pictures. It's almost like being there myself. What a great opportunity for the kids, too. I know a couple of people who have been to Viet Nam and they have said that it is a beautiful country and the people are awesome. Have a Happy Easter and enjoy the experience. |
| 20th March 2008 Maggie | This is great - From: Side Trip from Saigon Hi Tracy, David, Will and Helen, So glad Aunt Judy sent Sarah and I this link! This is amazing, your accounts of everything are hysterical. Write a book! You'll blow that Eat, Pray, Love woman out of the water! Hope every day is as amazing as your first few and that you all have the time of your lives. We'll be living vicariously through your posts from NJ! Take care! Love, Maggie |
| 20th March 2008 Abby | - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Helen, I can't believe you held that snake! Can't wait to see you all! |
| 20th March 2008 Bonnie B | Thank you. - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Thank you so much for sharing your adventure. It looks like you are having an amazing time! I've been sharing with Jeff, too. We are both learning a lot. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers for a safe and amazing journey! |
| 20th March 2008 Mom/DeeDee | Can't wait to join you - From: Trip to Unicorn Island What an adventure. I love Will with the "stand up" fish and Helen with the Python. Was she scared? I bet the kids loved the canal ride. Tracy, maybe you can help "Uncle Bin" write his book?? Be safe. Love to you all, Mom/DeeDee |
| 20th March 2008 sam | python - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Did Helen get bit by the python???? Will you bring me a pet python please????? |
| 20th March 2008 Claire | - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Those hats are sooo cute. what are they??? I also want to know are all of the houses so run down. love you, Claire |
| 20th March 2008 Amy Guthrie | Addicted - From: First Day I look forward to each Hoag Travel Fix. Fantastic pics and explanations. Our big kids, Luke and Olivia, have always been interested in Will and Helen. I see a future for them with the Travel Channel! We continue to pray for your safety and wild and crazy times! |
| 20th March 2008 Mom/Nana | WOW - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Your stories and pictures are so wonderful and I look forward to reading of your experiences each evening. Give Will and Helen a big hug from me. I love you, Mom/Nana |
| 20th March 2008 Dianne H | Looks like fun except the Python.... - From: Trip to Unicorn Island Looks like you guys are having fun. Jungle Jack Hannah might want Helen as an animal caretaker at the zoo. Will, how was the elephant fish? Paul wants to know what it tastes like. We want to know if Tracy held the python? Have fun and be safe! Tim, Paul & Dianne |
| 20th March 2008 Mrs. Gruber | Thank you! - From: Trip to Unicorn Island We so appreciate your information and the photos are wonderful! |
| 20th March 2008 Carly | Woe helen! - From: Trip to Unicorn Island woe helen-i can't believe you put that python around your neck! |
| 19th March 2008 Gracie | new kid - From: Side Trip from Saigon So have you found a kid you want yet?? When you do let me know, also tell me if it is a boy or girl and when your going to get it. Sincerly, Gracie |
| 19th March 2008 Maryke and boys | - From: Side Trip from Saigon T- Your history lesson was really good. Were you taking notes on the bus ride? I could see Helen and Will really thinking the tunnels were cool, too bad they have such a "scary" past. We look forward to your daily blogs. Kisses to all. Maryke PS Stick one of those Jack fruits in the red bag too. |
| 19th March 2008 Jeffrey Fortkamp | hello - From: Side Trip from Saigon Thanks for the updates. Thought you would appreciate this story today from Catholic News: Vietnamese nuns protest for return of property Ho Chi Minh City, Mar. 19, 2008 (CWNews.com) - A group of Vietnamese nuns has inaugurated public protests against plans by the government to turn their property into a hotel and night club. The Sisters of St. Vincent in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) are commencing public prayer vigils at a building they once owned, which was seized by the government in 1997. The protests are an echo of the dramatic prayer vigils by Catholics in Hanoi, which prompted the government to promise the restoration of a building that was once the office of the papal nuncio. In Ho Chi Minh City, the contested property was owned by the Sisters of St. Vincent, who operated a day-care center there. In 1975, when the Communist government came to power in southern Vietnam, the nuns acceded to heavy government pressure to open a kindergarten on the site. But in 1997 the government seized the building entirely, and hass subsequently ignored requests for its return. In recent years the government has leased the building to private owners, in order to raise money to support the local administration. A club has been opened in the building, and last year police raided that club, reporting that it was operating as a brothel. Now under the administration of a different government unit, the building has been slated for demolition, with the administrators saying that they will redevelop the property into a hotel and night club. The Sisters of St. Vincent, joined by the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City, have pleaded for restoration of the confiscated building, and the nuns have begun daily prayer vigils to protest the destruction. |
| 19th March 2008 Scott | Fascinating Entry about the tunnels - From: Side Trip from Saigon Thanks for the details of the tunnel trip. I would have loved to talk to Mr. Bin and hear his stories. Glad to hear everything is going well. |
| 19th March 2008 Aunt Kellie | Question for Helen - From: Side Trip from Saigon Helen, Have you met any little kids yet? Do they speak English? Have you seen them play games like you play? |
| 19th March 2008 Aunt Kellie | Question for Will - From: Side Trip from Saigon What is the weirdest food that you ate so far? Did you eat a Jack Fruit? Is it better than a Dragon Fruit? |
| 19th March 2008 Joen Iannucci | Hello from College of Dentistry - From: Side Trip from Saigon Hi David What a wonderful experience you are all having! Your photos are spectacular !!! Please know that you and your family are my heroes !!! Take care, Dr. I |
| 19th March 2008 Karen | - From: Side Trip from Saigon Thank you so much for sharing and including pictures! Maddie is excited to see Helen and what you are all doing - she says Hi! |
| 18th March 2008 carly | Hi - From: Side Trip from Saigon sounds like you guys are having a GREAT time! Can't wait to be there with you! carly |
| 18th March 2008 Judy Lorigan | Wow...You should be a writer - From: Side Trip from Saigon Hello Hoags. I have been waiting all day for the new blog. How great. The photos are super. Tell Will that I love the photo of inside the palm tree. David having a beer is great as is the photo of Helen asleep at the table. Great shots all around. Tracy, you should be a writer. I know more about the Vietnam War than I ever knew just reading your blog. And you have such a flare. I bet National Geographic would love to have you. Can't wait to see you. Love, Mom-DeeDee |
| 18th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | questions - From: First Day yes, Thomas -- I'm having fun. Caroline -- I've eaten rice, watermelon juice, fried spring rolls with pork, fried fish with sweet sauce, ginger chicken, boiled tapioca... all good. Talia -- this hotel is different because it is really nice. Our tourguide says that foreigners are treated especially nice... nicer than how the people who live here are treated. Weird. You have to use the room key to turn on the room's electricity. And they put a bowl of fresh fruit in the room everyday. We have to drink bottled water -- even brush our teeth with bottled water so we don't get sick. The ceiling is painted to look like a sky. Jessica -- It is not like I imagined it -- because I thought it would be like a desert and it is more like new York City, but much hotter and busier -- and the cable lines are impossible -- too mcuh to be true. Miss you guys. Will |
| 18th March 2008 KidsBuildingHope | Hi Patrick - From: First Day Dragon Fruit is crunchy and sweet and sour in different parts. It is white with a lot of little black seeds -- that get all over your hands. We're being careful. See you soon. Helen |
| 18th March 2008 McCarthy's | thanks for sharing - From: First Day Hi Hoag family, I can't wait to share this with my kids. What an amazing adventure for you all. Keep up the entries, they are great fun to read. Nikki and family |
| 18th March 2008 Patrick McGann | It looks fun in Vietnam, Helen! - From: First Day I love you, Helen. I hope you have a good time in Vietnam. What did the dragon fruit taste like? See you soon. I hope you will be very careful in Vietnam. Love, Patrick |
| 18th March 2008 Scott | Love the pics - From: First Day Will and Helen look like two little Hannibal Lectors with their masks. Best of luck in the tunnels. "We own the day, but Charlie owns the night." |
| 18th March 2008 Will's class | Viewing your sights - From: First Day Thomas wants to know: Are you having fun? Caroline asks: What other foods have you eaten? Talia wants to know: Is the hotel like one you would visit in America? Jessica wants to know: Is it like you imagined it would be? Take care! Love, Grade 2 |
| 18th March 2008 Kris Zalenski | Hi! - From: First Day Yea! You're there! We can't wait to meet up with you guys in a few more days. Any tips for the long trip for the kids?? Have fun and we'll see you soon! |
| 18th March 2008 Mom/DeeDee | So.o.o. wonderful - From: First Day Hi Hoags. I am anxiously awaiting your second day report. What a great thing this "blog" is. Brand new stuff to me. I can just see Helen skipping along twirling her skirt, and Will wondering why everyone is looking at him. I am sure he realizes by now that the Vietnamese people are not used to seeing American children. I am so glad you are all there safe and sound, and can't wait to join you this weekend. Love you all, Mom/DeeDee |
| 18th March 2008 The Nicholsons | Awesome! - From: First Day Keep up the blog... we love watching your adventure! |
| 18th March 2008 Thanh&Neal Armagost | This isn't Ohio - From: First Day Great to see your Blog .The kids should have a grand adventure. Be sure you try the mangosteen and rambutan. |
| 18th March 2008 Sue Akers | Thanks - From: First Day Thanks for sharing. I pray for a safe and wonderful adventure. |
| 18th March 2008 Mrs. Gruber | Thrilled to hear of your arrival! - From: First Day So happy to hear from you. Sent it on to the parents. We will read everything tomorrow to the class! |
| 18th March 2008 Maryke and boys | - From: First Day Seriously, put that dragon fruit in the red bag and pull it out in the middle of a meeting at Hospice or something. I read your blog to the boys, Tristan wants more pictures and Todd says you guys look like you always ride on the front of bikes. Be safe and HAVE FUN! Maryke |
| 17th March 2008 Barb Durbin | You're there! - From: First Day I am so happy to see that you made it alright! You sound like you are having a great time! Take care! Love, Miss Durbin |
| 17th March 2008 the wolfs | thanks!! - From: First Day Thank you so much for keeping us informed. i think we are all living this trip through you 4 crazy people! We look forwrd to the next few entries!! Love, Liz |
| 17th March 2008 Dianne H | Traffic - From: First Day Rush hour now will seem like nothing here! I remember traffic in Spain being crazy also! Có sñ vui ùa và an toàn. (Have fun and be safe.) What is the time difference? |
| 17th March 2008 Rebecca McCurdy | Wow! - From: First Day Dear Hoags - thanks for taking us vicariously along on this grand adventure! I'm very excited for you and praying for your safety and joy. Beki |
| 17th March 2008 Kellie | I love this!! - From: First Day So much better than a postcard. I almost feel like I'm there. |
| 17th March 2008 Neo | it looks like my home town to me! - From: First Day I can't believe you are there. Hope you all are enjoying it. |
