Image by Lissa Gotwals. It was featured in Garden & Gun's City Portrait: Raleigh, NC.
When thinking about where I wanted to have my birthday dinner, I wanted to be in an environment that exudes positive energy. I wanted to surround myself with people who bring immense joy to my life. There is something to be said about sharing your life with genuine people who aren't chasing after fame and recognition. Inviting people into your life who desire to create a tiny space on this earth that allows others to soak in gratitude in peace in a crazy world.
After mulling over my options, I knew exactly where I wanted to celebrate the start of my 28th year of life: Bida Manda. I could write a novel about the lives of Owners Vansana and Vanvisa Nolintha. They live lives worth imitating because they give their heart and soul to the community. They choose to look at the positive inside everyone who walks into their Laotian Restaurant. (Yes, Vansana and Vanvisa are from Laos and the food they serve tells a beautiful story of family!) Each time I talk to them, their light engulfs me like a warm blanket on a cold afternoon. It's a beautiful thing that you can only understand if you meet this brother and sister team!
Needless to say, my night at Bida Manda with my friends was nothing less that spectacular. Vansana and Vanvisa graciously helped me celebrate with an overwhelming amount of food. With each bite I took of their gift, I said thank you in my heart. The only other thing that would have made it perfect is if they could have been sitting around the table with us. My gratitude for their generous and loving hearts is deeper than the sea.
If you are in Raleigh, stop by and experience Bida Manda. Meet Vansana and Vanvisa. You will enjoy an awesome meal and leave feeling like you just spent time with great friends. Vansana and Vanvisa makes everyone feel that way.