Heart

Hi,

Another overnight storm left us with a beautiful day today. We ran morning errands, and discovered a new store. Chiang Rai is starting early with preparations for a birthday, and we've become fans of a Thai pop group.

Got lots of email on this one. Stuie wrote to tell me that there really is an establishment named in the title. Guess I have been away for awhile. Here's a chorus for those still guessing: "Welcome to the __ __. Such a lovely Place, such a lovely face. They're livin' it up at the __ __. What a nice surprise, bring your alibis." Hint: 'You can check in any time you like, but you can never leave.'

Last night there was a steady rain for about six hours. As a result, when I took Daku out this morning we strolled through a lake in the front yard. He didn't seem to mind at all. He's a dog. Later, when I took both dogs out, BamBam chased a ball, and slid when she put on her brakes. She just stood there and looked around for a moment, as if to say 'What just happened?'. I had to laugh.

We traveled out to Ghan's house to pick up the bag she was making for me. The result is wonderful. Now I have a 'formal' shoulder bag made from black silk. I'm becoming a bit of a designer. Hmm.

There is an art supply/stationary store where Lisa buys all her necessities. The woman who owns it is a patron of the local artists, and bought two of Lisa works at her first show. Today we went by and picked up some thing she needed. Next door to the art store is a one-man gallery. The artist is really into 'the old west', American style. He has paintings of horses, and various things hanging from the wall that make it feel like you're out on the range. He even wears a big cowboy belt buckle. The funny thing is that most of his work is beautiful flowers. If he needs supplies he just has to walk next door. Cool.

Walking back to our car Lisa noticed a colorful blouse in what looked like a small shop. We went in, and I began to explore. The place was huge. There was a women's department, men's clothing, school uniforms, football gear, and a complete section of swim suits, goggles, and snorkels. That last part seemed a little odd since the only natural water around here is brown and there's nothing to be seen. Anyway, we have a new place to check out when we want 'nice' clothes.

When it comes to celebrations, there seems to be no such thing as starting early to get ready. In 2012 Chiang Rai will celebrate it's 750th birthday. We're seeing signs promoting the event, even though it's almost a year and a half away. There is great pride in this area, and the culture of the North. I'll be keeping you informed as we get closer. You may even want to come over and party with us. (555)

Lately I've been putting in time on Youtube, looking at current Thai music groups as well as traditional performers. I've come across some pretty cool music. One of the groups we both like is C-Quint. It's a R&B/Pop vocal group with some outstanding arrangements. Every now and then they'll sing a line in English, but its mostly in Thai. Doesn't matter at all. For those of you looking for adventure, just search for them, or Thai R&B and see what you get.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"Occasionally in life there are those moments
of unutterable fulfillment which cannot be completely explained
by those symbols called words.
Their meanings can only be articulated
by the inaudible language of the heart."
~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com