By the time most of you read this I will either be in the air or maybe even home. In many ways one would look at this trip as short and compared to most it is. The main purpose of the trip was to secure a new office for us in Danang.

   I think it is going to be a great space for us. But will require a lot of work, inside and out. And we have 3 weeks to complete and be moved in.  Only in Vietnam could I hope to get it all done in time. The place was a mess, you know how places look once all the furniture is out…. Well this place… But Praise God I think in many ways it is going to be better.

   I was going to name this email “things I learned.” But realize that only time will tell if I learned anything. Things I hope to get better at may be a better title. I am going to work on working to focus on the simple things. Learning to take time. Yes that precious commodity.

  To take time to spend with those I meet. To stop and listen. Like the lost opportunity  I lost being to “busy” with work to talk with Linh and Phuc. Yes even shut my mouth for a few moments to hear what they have to say and give them enough time to get to it. Those that have been around me know what a challenge that can be. To look for “hidden" opportunities like the uniform material. Seeing them as opportunities to encourage others to dream and hope.  Reminding myself that what may appear as the goal may really only be the entry to what God wants to do.

  I really am glad I did not title this things I learned because this is all stuff I have been aware of for way to long. My pastor and friend Tim Celek recently preached on being in a hurry. I just figured he was talking about “his” issues. Guess I should have taken notes huh?

  Thank you very much for joining me on this trip. Here is some upcoming news and dates. Do you know anyone that likes ice cream? Come join me and share some "scoops"

Our next open trip to VN is March 1 -10. If you are interested please let me know ASAP. Cost usually run “about” $2600 that includes airfare, vans, moderate food costs and rooms. I will be in VN till the 20th of March. SO be ready for lots of email ;-)

  Summer trips are scheduling now also. I have some exciting trips for teens and young adults (young at heart works!). If you have one of know someone that should be with me in the summer. Let’s talk. We have ways to raise funds. I have a lot teens already signed up. Looks like I will be in VN from mid June to the end of July. There is also an “adult type trip” in that time frame.

  Our annual PIZZA FUNDRAISER is right around the corner. Tentatively it is Feb 10^th. I will be emailing confirmation soon. Last year we were able to raise a little over $6000!!! Original Pizza in Newport Beach donates 100% of what is purchased that day! Last year even the staff worked for free!

  Yea God! Some exciting times ahead. Remember we are always looking for opportunities to come and speak at your churches, offices, civic organizations, pot lucks or just over a cup of coffee. Some have talked about hosting dinners at their homes and invite friends that may be interested in hearing about VN. My wife and I and open to all ideas about how we can the vision of Giving it Back to Kids out. Call me 714 423 3515 or email me.

  GIBTK is about spreading vision, showing needs. But Without funds we could not do what we do. If you want to donate or any certain program or project it can be done on our web site.  www.givingitbacktokids.org or you can send a check to GIBTK 10112 Stonybrook DR. HB. Calif. 92646

   Thank you for reading, praying and emailing me your kind word. Without you I doubt I could keep doing what God has called me to do. God bless and stay in touch you know I will!

><((((º>  BBlessed