Hi,
The cold season has definitely passed over us. At least during the day. The overnight temps are quite cool, but that changes quickly with the sun. Today we had a delivery, made a delivery, and Daku found a prize.
The 'classics' seem to elicit more responses. Nice to hear from some of you. There's a clue in this line. Read on:
"Dear lady, can you hear the wind blow? And did you know: your stairway lies on the whispering wind... And she's buying a __ __ __." Hint: I don't think you need one.
This morning Tawd's wife and small son delivered the first two framed pieces of Lisa's artwork. One of them is a four panel creation. It's four separate prints that all create one image. It's 5' by 4'. Tawd did a great job of lining things up. We have a lot more work to take to him, but he doesn't speak any English. When we delivered more work for Chalit to photograph, we mentioned that Tawd was doing the framing. Chalit has been hearing about him and wants to meet him. He will come with us when we take the next batch to be framed and act as translator. Things always seem to work out.
Saturday, while we were at Walking Street, I spotted our friend Jonathan. Jonathan is a 7 year old English Golden Retriever. He was just strolling around, which seemed a little odd. I called out to him and then the mother of his owner came running up to him. They live a few blocks away at Work At Home Bakery and Jonathan decided to see what was going on. He'd never wandered off like that before and it had the whole family freaked out. Today, when I went to get bread his owner came out and replayed the evening from her perspective. She had gone up and down the street looking for him. We had seen her after her mother found him and told her he was safe. We laughed about it and decided that he just wanted to do some shopping. Dogs just do what they want to do. Hmm.
Ever since Daku was a little guy he's been fascinated with palm fronds. When they fall from the trees he likes to drag them around the yard, and then tear them apart. Today he found one behind the waterfall and teased me with it. I was trying to get him to come to me but he'd stand there, with this huge thing hanging out of his mouth, and then dash off as soon as I stepped toward him. It wasn't until I walked his way holding a leash that he ran to the backyard and settled down. I'm sure he'll be looking for it the next time he goes outside.
Decorations are going up all over town for the birthday celebration for The King on December 5. I suspect there will be a parade or two so I'll have to keep some alternate routes in mind. There will also be the giant Chiang Rai Music Festival on the 3rd and 4th. Oh my, this place knows how to party. Never a dull moment in The Land of Smiles.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness.
It is not attained through self-gratification,
but through fidelity to a worthy purpose."
~Helen Keller
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Worry
Hi,
We had a pleasant weekend here in Chiang Rai. There were the usual things plus a trip to Walking Street, and a change of venue for Sunday dinner.
The 'Old School Friday' song didn't get much response. It was "Get A Job", by The Silhouettes. Now you know. 'Easy Monday' should be pretty easy for a lot of you. It's from '71 so you 'kids' might know it. (Ha) Three words.
"There's a lady who's sure all that glitters is gold, and she's buying a __ __ __." Hint: Step by step, with a little thought you'll get it. It's by a group from across the pond named after a kind of flying machine.
Saturday's big adventure was Walking Street. We decided to go early, start from a different end, and eat while we were there. We found a great parking place a block before the beginning. As we strolled into the part that was blocked off, many vendors were just setting up. We were afraid we might be too early but that was only because we were on the 'outskirts'. The prime section was already going strong at 5:30. By the time we got to almost the end of one side, hunger set in so we thought we'd try Cabbages and Condoms for dinner. That was a bit of a mistake. The service was weak, and the food wasn't that good. Oh well, back into the mix. We found some unique gift items, saw some crazy stuff, and heard some cool music by a group that was performing on a small stage in the park. I have no idea where all the vendors come from, but I know they're not all local. We made it home by 8:30, tired but happy.
Sunday morning we did the Big C thing. We were going to have dinner at home since we had a 7pm massage appointment and Boot was going to be out for the day. As it turned out, Boot came home early with her friend Jindah and her daughter plus another little girl. The girls went straight to the sitting pond and frolicked in the water. Cold water doesn't seem to deter small children from having fun. About an hour later I was out with Daku when we heard motorbikes at the front gate. Then we heard voices and realized that they were waiting to come in. It was Jindah's husband and two of his friends. We had no clue that this was going to happen. One of the guys went swimming, which was alright, but we decided that we'd go out for dinner.
We had dinner at Connect Cafe, which is right across the street from one of the Night Bazaar (NB) entrances, on Bus Station Street. We had never eaten there before, just coffee. The food was good and we got a chance to see one of their baby twins. We had heard about them and seen pictures, but never met them. We went over to the NB for awhile and then to our massage. It was a good, relaxing finish to the day.
Today was a day of odds and ends around the house and a trip to 3BB, the internet provider, for me. Actually, two trips to settle some business. Tomorrow Tawd will bring the first two pieces he's framed to the house. We're pretty excited to see how they turned out. Lisa has more artwork ready for him to take back to the factory. The 'real' preparation is going full steam now for her February show. The translations are done, and next comes the catalog. She's still turning out new work. Today, when I was out, I went to the HP store to get more printer ink. The girls in the shop get up and walk to the ink cabinet as soon as I hit the door. This time I took a little book with photos of some of Lisa's cast acrylic prints so they could see what all the ink is for. One of them spoke English so I could explain the work and what part was being printed. Now we have a new connection.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Worrying often gives a small thing a big shadow."
~Swedish proverb
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
We had a pleasant weekend here in Chiang Rai. There were the usual things plus a trip to Walking Street, and a change of venue for Sunday dinner.
The 'Old School Friday' song didn't get much response. It was "Get A Job", by The Silhouettes. Now you know. 'Easy Monday' should be pretty easy for a lot of you. It's from '71 so you 'kids' might know it. (Ha) Three words.
"There's a lady who's sure all that glitters is gold, and she's buying a __ __ __." Hint: Step by step, with a little thought you'll get it. It's by a group from across the pond named after a kind of flying machine.
Saturday's big adventure was Walking Street. We decided to go early, start from a different end, and eat while we were there. We found a great parking place a block before the beginning. As we strolled into the part that was blocked off, many vendors were just setting up. We were afraid we might be too early but that was only because we were on the 'outskirts'. The prime section was already going strong at 5:30. By the time we got to almost the end of one side, hunger set in so we thought we'd try Cabbages and Condoms for dinner. That was a bit of a mistake. The service was weak, and the food wasn't that good. Oh well, back into the mix. We found some unique gift items, saw some crazy stuff, and heard some cool music by a group that was performing on a small stage in the park. I have no idea where all the vendors come from, but I know they're not all local. We made it home by 8:30, tired but happy.
Sunday morning we did the Big C thing. We were going to have dinner at home since we had a 7pm massage appointment and Boot was going to be out for the day. As it turned out, Boot came home early with her friend Jindah and her daughter plus another little girl. The girls went straight to the sitting pond and frolicked in the water. Cold water doesn't seem to deter small children from having fun. About an hour later I was out with Daku when we heard motorbikes at the front gate. Then we heard voices and realized that they were waiting to come in. It was Jindah's husband and two of his friends. We had no clue that this was going to happen. One of the guys went swimming, which was alright, but we decided that we'd go out for dinner.
We had dinner at Connect Cafe, which is right across the street from one of the Night Bazaar (NB) entrances, on Bus Station Street. We had never eaten there before, just coffee. The food was good and we got a chance to see one of their baby twins. We had heard about them and seen pictures, but never met them. We went over to the NB for awhile and then to our massage. It was a good, relaxing finish to the day.
Today was a day of odds and ends around the house and a trip to 3BB, the internet provider, for me. Actually, two trips to settle some business. Tomorrow Tawd will bring the first two pieces he's framed to the house. We're pretty excited to see how they turned out. Lisa has more artwork ready for him to take back to the factory. The 'real' preparation is going full steam now for her February show. The translations are done, and next comes the catalog. She's still turning out new work. Today, when I was out, I went to the HP store to get more printer ink. The girls in the shop get up and walk to the ink cabinet as soon as I hit the door. This time I took a little book with photos of some of Lisa's cast acrylic prints so they could see what all the ink is for. One of them spoke English so I could explain the work and what part was being printed. Now we have a new connection.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Worrying often gives a small thing a big shadow."
~Swedish proverb
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Friday, November 26, 2010
Friday Funnies
Hi,
Today was check-in day with immigration. While in the north we stopped at Tesco, and had coffee at the Teak House.
A carwash, Doi Chaang coffee, a wonderful lunch visit with friends, art errands, and a great dinner took up the second half of the day.
Our first 'Summer Song' was "Somebody To Love" by Jefferson Airplane. I think you like this format change. There was lots of mail. Now, settle down 'cause it's 'Old School Friday' time. If you know this one, tell me the title, the group, and a bit of the intro. (This should be good) "Every morning about this time, she get me out of bed a-cryin' __ __ __. After breakfast every day she throws the want ads right my way and never fails to say, __ __ __..."
Hint: Something a lot of people wish they could do these days. It's from '58 by a group of shadowy figures.
This morning we set out early for Mae Sai. We were on the road by 7:40am. It was interesting to be in the morning traffic on the Super Highway. It was a little busy just north of Chiang Rai, but after that it just rolled along. It took us the usual hour to reach our destination. The place was practically empty so as soon as we finished our one page form, the official stamping and folding was done and we were back on the road. Took about 10 minutes. Next time we're going to fill the forms out in advance and see if we can beat that time. (555)
About 3 kilometers south of the office is the big Tesco-Lotus store. I think we went there for pickles or relish, but we left with everything but that. Well, not everything. We're pretty good shoppers. Things like juice on sale are hard to pass up. They were having a sale on sugar which we watched with great interest, but didn't indulge. People were lined up at one counter looking like there was a run on gold. At the appointed time they started dispensing little white bags. At first we didn't know what it was. I finally cruised by a check-stand where a man had a cart full of these bags and recognized the logo. Another thing we bought was forks. Our forks disappear over time. Boot sometimes cleans off a plate over the trash and the fork becomes garbage. Not a big deal, but when you get down to three, it's time to restock. It was about mid-morning when we left Tesco, so after buying some pineapple from a roadside stand, we stopped for coffee at Teak House, which has a very nice ambience and lots of nice wood. The coffee wasn't as good as the first time, but it was a nice little rest.
At home we regrouped and headed to the carwash. It's one thing to have a dusty car, but after driving in the rain up north, it looked totally nasty. The carwash lady said it would be an hour, but Lisa told her we had a lunch date in an hour so she said 30 minutes. The sweet game of negotiation. We walked over to Doi Chaang for coffee and had a nice conversation with Kwan.
Lunch with Jimmy and Poui was delicious. We had a great time hearing about their adventures living in Alaska, Louisiana, and Australia. Poui has started painting and she showed us her work. There were some very special pieces in her original collection. I learned about wells and pumps and filters, and Jimmy gave us some material to put on our 'slippery when wet' back patio. He said 3M developed it for the boats in Alaska. Oh, and we learned a lot about sled dogs too. They'll be going back to Australia later next month and won't return until April. We hope to see them again before they go.
On the way home from lunch we picked up Lisa's polyethylene plates, and went by the art supply store. When we got home we collapsed. Too late for a nap, but just enough time to stare at the ceiling for a while. What a day!
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. The 'Funnies' are next, from my friend Shalini. This is part one.
Peace,
Danny
PARAPROSDOKIANS
A paraprosdokian is a figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected in a way that causes the reader or listener to reframe or reinterpret the first part. It is frequently used for humorous or dramatic effect, sometimes producing an anticlimax.
* I asked God for a bike, but I know God doesn't work that way. So I stole a bike and asked for forgiveness.
* Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.
* I want to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfather. Not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car.
* The last thing I want to do is hurt you. But it's still on the list.
* Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
* To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.
* Some people are like Slinkies ... not really good for anything, but you can't help smiling when you see one tumble down the stairs.
* I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.
* Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet?
* A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today was check-in day with immigration. While in the north we stopped at Tesco, and had coffee at the Teak House.
A carwash, Doi Chaang coffee, a wonderful lunch visit with friends, art errands, and a great dinner took up the second half of the day.
Our first 'Summer Song' was "Somebody To Love" by Jefferson Airplane. I think you like this format change. There was lots of mail. Now, settle down 'cause it's 'Old School Friday' time. If you know this one, tell me the title, the group, and a bit of the intro. (This should be good) "Every morning about this time, she get me out of bed a-cryin' __ __ __. After breakfast every day she throws the want ads right my way and never fails to say, __ __ __..."
Hint: Something a lot of people wish they could do these days. It's from '58 by a group of shadowy figures.
This morning we set out early for Mae Sai. We were on the road by 7:40am. It was interesting to be in the morning traffic on the Super Highway. It was a little busy just north of Chiang Rai, but after that it just rolled along. It took us the usual hour to reach our destination. The place was practically empty so as soon as we finished our one page form, the official stamping and folding was done and we were back on the road. Took about 10 minutes. Next time we're going to fill the forms out in advance and see if we can beat that time. (555)
About 3 kilometers south of the office is the big Tesco-Lotus store. I think we went there for pickles or relish, but we left with everything but that. Well, not everything. We're pretty good shoppers. Things like juice on sale are hard to pass up. They were having a sale on sugar which we watched with great interest, but didn't indulge. People were lined up at one counter looking like there was a run on gold. At the appointed time they started dispensing little white bags. At first we didn't know what it was. I finally cruised by a check-stand where a man had a cart full of these bags and recognized the logo. Another thing we bought was forks. Our forks disappear over time. Boot sometimes cleans off a plate over the trash and the fork becomes garbage. Not a big deal, but when you get down to three, it's time to restock. It was about mid-morning when we left Tesco, so after buying some pineapple from a roadside stand, we stopped for coffee at Teak House, which has a very nice ambience and lots of nice wood. The coffee wasn't as good as the first time, but it was a nice little rest.
At home we regrouped and headed to the carwash. It's one thing to have a dusty car, but after driving in the rain up north, it looked totally nasty. The carwash lady said it would be an hour, but Lisa told her we had a lunch date in an hour so she said 30 minutes. The sweet game of negotiation. We walked over to Doi Chaang for coffee and had a nice conversation with Kwan.
Lunch with Jimmy and Poui was delicious. We had a great time hearing about their adventures living in Alaska, Louisiana, and Australia. Poui has started painting and she showed us her work. There were some very special pieces in her original collection. I learned about wells and pumps and filters, and Jimmy gave us some material to put on our 'slippery when wet' back patio. He said 3M developed it for the boats in Alaska. Oh, and we learned a lot about sled dogs too. They'll be going back to Australia later next month and won't return until April. We hope to see them again before they go.
On the way home from lunch we picked up Lisa's polyethylene plates, and went by the art supply store. When we got home we collapsed. Too late for a nap, but just enough time to stare at the ceiling for a while. What a day!
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. The 'Funnies' are next, from my friend Shalini. This is part one.
Peace,
Danny
PARAPROSDOKIANS
A paraprosdokian is a figure of speech in which the latter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected in a way that causes the reader or listener to reframe or reinterpret the first part. It is frequently used for humorous or dramatic effect, sometimes producing an anticlimax.
* I asked God for a bike, but I know God doesn't work that way. So I stole a bike and asked for forgiveness.
* Do not argue with an idiot. He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.
* I want to die peacefully in my sleep, like my grandfather. Not screaming and yelling like the passengers in his car.
* The last thing I want to do is hurt you. But it's still on the list.
* Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
* To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.
* Some people are like Slinkies ... not really good for anything, but you can't help smiling when you see one tumble down the stairs.
* I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you.
* Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet?
* A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving
Hi,
Today was like any other, weather wise. The lows here are like the highs in Los Angeles. Got mail from our friend Rachael, in Montana, where it was below zero. Brrr. I had a busy, productive day running around getting things done.
Seems like the 'Summer of Love' is a hit already. A lot of you remembered this song. Here's a little bit more:
"Tears are running, they're all running down your breast. And your friends, baby, they treat you like a guest. Don't you want __ __ __, don't you need __ __ __, wouldn't you love __ __ __....." Hint: It's a question, by a group named for a flying machine. Hmm.
This morning, after watering the back lawn, I went into town for various things on the list. The most important thing was a disc drive for Lisa's laptop so she can import photos and programs. The one on her computer has gone the way of planned obsolescence. I had quite a time at the tech store communicating that I needed a drive that was Mac compatible. Finally, after looking at some boxes, I found one and we were all laughing at the simplicity of my request. The crew of young people were trying really hard to understand. Then came the big question: If it doesn't work, can I bring it back? One of them went to a Google translation site and typed a message in Thai. It read 'Must be returned in original condition.' No problem. As I was paying, I heard the sound of a marching band. I'd noticed several policemen out in the street directing traffic, which is unusual. Sure enough, it was a parade coming down the street I planned to exit on, and memories of a few nights ago smacked me in the face. Just as I was about to try a U turn on a narrow street, the parade came to an end. Wonderful. The drive works fine so all is well.
This afternoon I had acupuncture, and then a trip to the 'everything' store for a large trash can. Then I went to 7-11 to pay the power bill, picked up juice at the market next door, and then home. I love the short distances between all the stops. The parking lady helped me out of my spot and into the traffic. What a treat to pay 12 cents for parking and get help on top of that.
This evening, just as we were finishing dinner, Boot announced that 'water gone'. What she meant was that the city water was off, and nothing was coming out of the faucet. This hasn't happened in a long time. That was at 6pm. It just came on at about 8:30. Not a big problem, just a minor inconvenience, but it could have been worse. It could have stayed 'gone' all night.
Tomorrow we're going to Mae Sai for our visa check-in and then to Poui and Jimmy's for lunch. The turkey dinner we were to attend on Saturday has been postponed, but we will be having our first turkey since being in Thailand next week. In the meantime, I'll just keep enjoying this beautiful life.
I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving wherever you are.
Peace,
Danny
"Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today was like any other, weather wise. The lows here are like the highs in Los Angeles. Got mail from our friend Rachael, in Montana, where it was below zero. Brrr. I had a busy, productive day running around getting things done.
Seems like the 'Summer of Love' is a hit already. A lot of you remembered this song. Here's a little bit more:
"Tears are running, they're all running down your breast. And your friends, baby, they treat you like a guest. Don't you want __ __ __, don't you need __ __ __, wouldn't you love __ __ __....." Hint: It's a question, by a group named for a flying machine. Hmm.
This morning, after watering the back lawn, I went into town for various things on the list. The most important thing was a disc drive for Lisa's laptop so she can import photos and programs. The one on her computer has gone the way of planned obsolescence. I had quite a time at the tech store communicating that I needed a drive that was Mac compatible. Finally, after looking at some boxes, I found one and we were all laughing at the simplicity of my request. The crew of young people were trying really hard to understand. Then came the big question: If it doesn't work, can I bring it back? One of them went to a Google translation site and typed a message in Thai. It read 'Must be returned in original condition.' No problem. As I was paying, I heard the sound of a marching band. I'd noticed several policemen out in the street directing traffic, which is unusual. Sure enough, it was a parade coming down the street I planned to exit on, and memories of a few nights ago smacked me in the face. Just as I was about to try a U turn on a narrow street, the parade came to an end. Wonderful. The drive works fine so all is well.
This afternoon I had acupuncture, and then a trip to the 'everything' store for a large trash can. Then I went to 7-11 to pay the power bill, picked up juice at the market next door, and then home. I love the short distances between all the stops. The parking lady helped me out of my spot and into the traffic. What a treat to pay 12 cents for parking and get help on top of that.
This evening, just as we were finishing dinner, Boot announced that 'water gone'. What she meant was that the city water was off, and nothing was coming out of the faucet. This hasn't happened in a long time. That was at 6pm. It just came on at about 8:30. Not a big problem, just a minor inconvenience, but it could have been worse. It could have stayed 'gone' all night.
Tomorrow we're going to Mae Sai for our visa check-in and then to Poui and Jimmy's for lunch. The turkey dinner we were to attend on Saturday has been postponed, but we will be having our first turkey since being in Thailand next week. In the meantime, I'll just keep enjoying this beautiful life.
I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving wherever you are.
Peace,
Danny
"Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year; to the honest man it comes as frequently as the heart of gratitude will allow."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Friendships
Hi,
The cold season came and left in a week. We're having chilly mornings, but the daytime temps range from quite pleasant to hot. Today we went banking and tried real hard to mail something to the states. You could say we had a postal adventure, and Daku met his new frisbee.
The 'Easy Monday' song ended up delivering a lot of laughs on this end. A bunch of you got it, and some of you pulled my leg about the group. It was "Still The One" by Orleans. Not New Jersey, or New Haven just to name a few from Christopher. Just when you were looking forward to 'Old Folk Crap', I'm changing things. Enough with the 'Old Folk'. Wednesday's will now be songs from 'The Summer of Love'. That's right, 1967. So get out your Love Beads, and your tie dyes 'cause we're goin' to a Love In. "When the truth is found to be lies. And all the joy within you dies. Don't you want __ __ __, don't you need __ __ __, wouldn't you love __ __ __, you better find __ __ __." Clues: Seriously? This is an easy one. Maybe a real clue tomorrow.
This morning we went to the bank. Our friend Bobby was in great spirits. Yesterday was his birthday, and he has a new girlfriend. The last time we were there he was so sad with a broken heart. Going to the bank keeps us in the loop. (555)
After the bank we had coffee at Connect Cafe, which was our first 'favorite' coffee shop when we first moved here.
I needed money on my phone which meant going to 7-11. I was thinking of the one on the main drag, but there was one a few doors down from the coffee shop. It's like there's a 7-11 within walking distance of almost anywhere.
Our plan was to mail a copy of the magazine with Lisa's article to our parents. We went to the mini post office at Edison, Lisa got them all ready to mail, and they told us it was going to cost way more than we wanted to pay. We decided to check out the main P.O. to see what they had to say. The clerk weighed them, wrote down the same price as before and then told us we couldn't mail them anyway. He showed us a document from the U.S. stating that anything over 430 grams could not be mailed before December 8. What? The magazines weigh 548 grams. We also found out that there is Economy Air Mail, which is half the price. Nice to know. I wonder what that means? Do they put the package in the back of the plane? Hmm.
This morning, when Daku and I went out for his morning 'play' I showed him the new frisbee. He raced out to the front lawn in anticipation. I tossed it out and he ran and dove on it. One he got it in his grip he just ran around with it. He was so happy. He finally came back to me and let me throw it again. This time he grabbed it and pranced around. The game progressed, he got a good run, and I discovered that the thing flew better upside down. Who knew? Daku didn't seem to care.
Feels like a Wacky Wednesday. I understand that it's cold in California. Stay warm.
Peace,
Danny
"Friendships begin because, even without words,
we understand how someone feels."
~Joan Walsh Anglund
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
The cold season came and left in a week. We're having chilly mornings, but the daytime temps range from quite pleasant to hot. Today we went banking and tried real hard to mail something to the states. You could say we had a postal adventure, and Daku met his new frisbee.
The 'Easy Monday' song ended up delivering a lot of laughs on this end. A bunch of you got it, and some of you pulled my leg about the group. It was "Still The One" by Orleans. Not New Jersey, or New Haven just to name a few from Christopher. Just when you were looking forward to 'Old Folk Crap', I'm changing things. Enough with the 'Old Folk'. Wednesday's will now be songs from 'The Summer of Love'. That's right, 1967. So get out your Love Beads, and your tie dyes 'cause we're goin' to a Love In. "When the truth is found to be lies. And all the joy within you dies. Don't you want __ __ __, don't you need __ __ __, wouldn't you love __ __ __, you better find __ __ __." Clues: Seriously? This is an easy one. Maybe a real clue tomorrow.
This morning we went to the bank. Our friend Bobby was in great spirits. Yesterday was his birthday, and he has a new girlfriend. The last time we were there he was so sad with a broken heart. Going to the bank keeps us in the loop. (555)
After the bank we had coffee at Connect Cafe, which was our first 'favorite' coffee shop when we first moved here.
I needed money on my phone which meant going to 7-11. I was thinking of the one on the main drag, but there was one a few doors down from the coffee shop. It's like there's a 7-11 within walking distance of almost anywhere.
Our plan was to mail a copy of the magazine with Lisa's article to our parents. We went to the mini post office at Edison, Lisa got them all ready to mail, and they told us it was going to cost way more than we wanted to pay. We decided to check out the main P.O. to see what they had to say. The clerk weighed them, wrote down the same price as before and then told us we couldn't mail them anyway. He showed us a document from the U.S. stating that anything over 430 grams could not be mailed before December 8. What? The magazines weigh 548 grams. We also found out that there is Economy Air Mail, which is half the price. Nice to know. I wonder what that means? Do they put the package in the back of the plane? Hmm.
This morning, when Daku and I went out for his morning 'play' I showed him the new frisbee. He raced out to the front lawn in anticipation. I tossed it out and he ran and dove on it. One he got it in his grip he just ran around with it. He was so happy. He finally came back to me and let me throw it again. This time he grabbed it and pranced around. The game progressed, he got a good run, and I discovered that the thing flew better upside down. Who knew? Daku didn't seem to care.
Feels like a Wacky Wednesday. I understand that it's cold in California. Stay warm.
Peace,
Danny
"Friendships begin because, even without words,
we understand how someone feels."
~Joan Walsh Anglund
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Art
Hi,
Today was another post-card type weather day. I finally watered the front lawn, Daku got a new frisbee, Lisa taught ballet, and we had two deliveries. It was a nice day.
A few of you found the 'Easy' song easy. Maybe a couple of the clever choruses will help you remember the tune:
"You're __ __ __ who can scratch my itch, __ __ __ and I wouldn't switch. We're still havin' fun, and you're __ __ __." And then there's this one: "You are __ __ __ that makes me shout, __ __ __ that I dream about. We're still havin' fun, and you're __ __ __." Clue: If the group broke up and reformed, then they would be New __, just like the city. That should take care of that.
We thought that Sunday was the end of Loy Kratong but last night proved to be an even bigger deal. I went into town in the evening and ended up in a major traffic snarl. There was a huge parade of giant floats on Walking Street, and I was headed right for it. Luckily, I noticed cars behind me turning around so after I spotted a float, I turned around too. I took my alternate route which led me to another closed street. Up ahead I could see big fireworks displays in the sky and hundreds of people in the street. Eventually, I had to go across town and take the highway to Ban Mai. The road was clear but I could see colorful displays dotting the sky as I drove home. The fairgrounds were going strong, balloons were floating up, and the sound of explosions filled the night.
Lisa ordered a language program from a local company and the discs arrived today. We also ordered two rolls of polyethylene sheets for her art from America and that also arrived. We don't get much mail so getting two things in one day is kind of special. We'll have the large sheets cut to specific sizes since that is what determines the size of the cast acrylic print.
Tonight it sounds as though Loy Kratong is over. It's quiet outside. There are occasional 'booms' and 'bangs' in the distance. It won't remain quiet for long though. There will be a concert of a popular singer tonight on the big stage across the river. We heard the sound check this afternoon. All I can say is 'The bass was thumpin'".
Daku hasn't met his new frisbee yet. It's different from the last one so it may take 5 seconds for him to get used to it. Lately we've let him have the run of the house in the afternoon. Sometimes he'll nap in the kitchen, come up and visit, and then go back to the landing on the stairs. He's growing up. That doesn't mean the puppy part is gone. He still has little fits of crazy that are sometimes entertaining and sometimes annoying. But hey, he's a dog.
Have a Happy Tuesday. Big thanks to Claire for today's quote.
Peace,
Danny
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes.
Art is knowing which ones to keep"
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today was another post-card type weather day. I finally watered the front lawn, Daku got a new frisbee, Lisa taught ballet, and we had two deliveries. It was a nice day.
A few of you found the 'Easy' song easy. Maybe a couple of the clever choruses will help you remember the tune:
"You're __ __ __ who can scratch my itch, __ __ __ and I wouldn't switch. We're still havin' fun, and you're __ __ __." And then there's this one: "You are __ __ __ that makes me shout, __ __ __ that I dream about. We're still havin' fun, and you're __ __ __." Clue: If the group broke up and reformed, then they would be New __, just like the city. That should take care of that.
We thought that Sunday was the end of Loy Kratong but last night proved to be an even bigger deal. I went into town in the evening and ended up in a major traffic snarl. There was a huge parade of giant floats on Walking Street, and I was headed right for it. Luckily, I noticed cars behind me turning around so after I spotted a float, I turned around too. I took my alternate route which led me to another closed street. Up ahead I could see big fireworks displays in the sky and hundreds of people in the street. Eventually, I had to go across town and take the highway to Ban Mai. The road was clear but I could see colorful displays dotting the sky as I drove home. The fairgrounds were going strong, balloons were floating up, and the sound of explosions filled the night.
Lisa ordered a language program from a local company and the discs arrived today. We also ordered two rolls of polyethylene sheets for her art from America and that also arrived. We don't get much mail so getting two things in one day is kind of special. We'll have the large sheets cut to specific sizes since that is what determines the size of the cast acrylic print.
Tonight it sounds as though Loy Kratong is over. It's quiet outside. There are occasional 'booms' and 'bangs' in the distance. It won't remain quiet for long though. There will be a concert of a popular singer tonight on the big stage across the river. We heard the sound check this afternoon. All I can say is 'The bass was thumpin'".
Daku hasn't met his new frisbee yet. It's different from the last one so it may take 5 seconds for him to get used to it. Lately we've let him have the run of the house in the afternoon. Sometimes he'll nap in the kitchen, come up and visit, and then go back to the landing on the stairs. He's growing up. That doesn't mean the puppy part is gone. He still has little fits of crazy that are sometimes entertaining and sometimes annoying. But hey, he's a dog.
Have a Happy Tuesday. Big thanks to Claire for today's quote.
Peace,
Danny
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes.
Art is knowing which ones to keep"
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Monday, November 22, 2010
Light
Hi,
We had quite an exciting weekend. Loy Kratong is in full swing, and we took a little road trip and discovered some amazing places.
The 'Old School Friday' song was "Dedicated To The One I Love" by The Shirelles, but you knew that. 'Easy Monday' should be easy for most of you. "We've been together since way back when. Sometimes I never want to see you again. But I want you to know, after all these years you're __ __ __ I want whisperin' in my ear." Hint: Three words letting someone know that they still count, by a group whose name is after a city on the Gulf. Hmm.
Saturday evening we went to The 9 Art Gallery for the opening of 'Portraits of The King'. It was quite an affair, with a brief traditional dance by two girls in elaborate costumes along with a strange antelope type creature controlled by two people inside. It was like a lion dance, but not a lion. They were accompanied by two drummers. Then there was the presentation of the two artists. After they spoke to the audience, in Thai, they drew a portrait of the King with oil pastels, each taking a turn at doing a feature of his face, until it was done. What a treat to watch a 'live' drawing right there on the highway. Then we went inside to see all the variations of The King at various stages of his life. When we left we were given two plants. We still don't know the story on this but we'll find out.
The other big thing that happened Saturday night was the delivery of copies of "Traversing the Orient," with the article about Lisa. It looks fantastic.
Sunday morning we did the Big C thing and had lunch. In the afternoon Bob and Noni came over and we followed them to the 'factory' of Tawd, the man who will frame Lisa's show. It's north of town, way out in the country. It was a huge building that was filled with concrete elephants, giant facades for temples, and art everywhere. Some of the work was actually fiberglass that was formed over concrete molds. It turns out that he made the New Clock Tower, following the design of Chalermchai, who also built Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple). He showed us the structure that will someday be his gallery. We're really looking forward to seeing how he applies his creativity to the framing of Lisa's work.
After we left the factory, we followed Bob and Noni farther up the road and into another countryside village to a place called Doy Din Dang (Red Clay Hill). It's a compound owned by Somluk Pantiboon, a ceramic artist who makes incredible pots and sculptures. He studied in Japan and learned how to make glazes that are non-toxic. He has trained many of the people in his village and given them a craft.
Sunday night was the official night of Loy Kratong (according to the moon). We walked down to the river on 'our side' and looked across at the festivities. Paper balloons fueled by flaming rings were streaming into the air, fireworks of every description were going off, and the river was lit up with the candles that floated on the kratongs that had been placed in it. The ferris wheel was going and the crowd was huge. This morning we had about 8 of the balloons in our yard. What goes up must come down. Since there wasn't much wind, the area was littered with them. We thought it was over, but tonight it's going as strong as last night. More on that tomorrow.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"There are two ways of spreading light...
to be the candle,
or the mirror that reflects it."
~Edith Wharton
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
We had quite an exciting weekend. Loy Kratong is in full swing, and we took a little road trip and discovered some amazing places.
The 'Old School Friday' song was "Dedicated To The One I Love" by The Shirelles, but you knew that. 'Easy Monday' should be easy for most of you. "We've been together since way back when. Sometimes I never want to see you again. But I want you to know, after all these years you're __ __ __ I want whisperin' in my ear." Hint: Three words letting someone know that they still count, by a group whose name is after a city on the Gulf. Hmm.
Saturday evening we went to The 9 Art Gallery for the opening of 'Portraits of The King'. It was quite an affair, with a brief traditional dance by two girls in elaborate costumes along with a strange antelope type creature controlled by two people inside. It was like a lion dance, but not a lion. They were accompanied by two drummers. Then there was the presentation of the two artists. After they spoke to the audience, in Thai, they drew a portrait of the King with oil pastels, each taking a turn at doing a feature of his face, until it was done. What a treat to watch a 'live' drawing right there on the highway. Then we went inside to see all the variations of The King at various stages of his life. When we left we were given two plants. We still don't know the story on this but we'll find out.
The other big thing that happened Saturday night was the delivery of copies of "Traversing the Orient," with the article about Lisa. It looks fantastic.
Sunday morning we did the Big C thing and had lunch. In the afternoon Bob and Noni came over and we followed them to the 'factory' of Tawd, the man who will frame Lisa's show. It's north of town, way out in the country. It was a huge building that was filled with concrete elephants, giant facades for temples, and art everywhere. Some of the work was actually fiberglass that was formed over concrete molds. It turns out that he made the New Clock Tower, following the design of Chalermchai, who also built Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple). He showed us the structure that will someday be his gallery. We're really looking forward to seeing how he applies his creativity to the framing of Lisa's work.
After we left the factory, we followed Bob and Noni farther up the road and into another countryside village to a place called Doy Din Dang (Red Clay Hill). It's a compound owned by Somluk Pantiboon, a ceramic artist who makes incredible pots and sculptures. He studied in Japan and learned how to make glazes that are non-toxic. He has trained many of the people in his village and given them a craft.
Sunday night was the official night of Loy Kratong (according to the moon). We walked down to the river on 'our side' and looked across at the festivities. Paper balloons fueled by flaming rings were streaming into the air, fireworks of every description were going off, and the river was lit up with the candles that floated on the kratongs that had been placed in it. The ferris wheel was going and the crowd was huge. This morning we had about 8 of the balloons in our yard. What goes up must come down. Since there wasn't much wind, the area was littered with them. We thought it was over, but tonight it's going as strong as last night. More on that tomorrow.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"There are two ways of spreading light...
to be the candle,
or the mirror that reflects it."
~Edith Wharton
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Friday, November 19, 2010
Friday Funnies
Hi,
Today we visited the photo studio, ran errands, got a massage, and now we're 'listening' to fireworks. (as if we had a choice).
You all did good with the 'Old Folk Crap'. It was "Silver Threads and Golden Needles" by The Springfields. Hmm. Here's a little something for 'Old School Friday'. Turn down the lights and remember the days. Maybe not.
"Each night before you go to bed my baby, whisper a little prayer for me my baby, and tell all the stars above, this is __ __ __ __ __ __." Hint: This is a song with quite a history. Tell me the title in five words, and the girl group that had a major hit in the early 60s. This should be easy.
This morning we went to Bliss Studio to look at the photos that Chalit took of Lisa. We had only seen a few after the shoot, to pick something for the magazine. Lisa sat at his desk, in front of a giant Apple monitor, and went through a ton of images. There were so many good ones it was hard to make a choice, so we're getting a bunch of them on disk. There's also a really cute series with Daku and Lisa.
We stopped by the pharmacy warehouse for vitamins, and also got some surgical gloves for Lisa to use when she's working with the acrylic gel. Hmm, could also be a way to keep paint off of one's fingers. From there we went to the art supply store. There's just too much to see in one visit. An artist has to approach a store like that the way I have to go into Fry's, with focus. If you lose focus, you might never get out. Or you might buy more than you need.
On our way home we were traveling through the business district and a monk crossed the street carrying a computer in his arms. It always strikes me as odd/interesting when I see a picture like that. We have one big temple on the west side of town that is a center for new initiates. Sometimes I see the teens with cellphones and it becomes clear that they're just putting in the time. It's still common for boys of various ages to spend time as a monk. In the long run, it is part of what makes the culture.
Tomorrow we will go to meet the next possible framer for Lisa's artwork. Noni and Bob will pick us up in the morning and we'll take some of her work and see if he can do what we need. From the frames we saw in Bob's show, he knows how to do beautiful woodwork, but it's more involved with a cast acrylic print. Another adventure.
We will also get copies of the magazine 'Traversing the Orient' tomorrow. Jaffee is bringing them from Chiang Mai. We can't wait to see the four page spread on Lisa Moses, Thai artist. (555) Monday you'll get a full report.
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Now it's time for the 'Funnies'.
Peace,
Danny
MY LIVING WILL
Last night, my friend and I were sitting in the living room and I said to
her; "I never want to live in a vegetative state, dependent on some
machine and fluids from a bottle... If that ever happens, just pull the
plug."
So she got up, unplugged the TV, and threw out my wine.
She's such a bitch.....
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today we visited the photo studio, ran errands, got a massage, and now we're 'listening' to fireworks. (as if we had a choice).
You all did good with the 'Old Folk Crap'. It was "Silver Threads and Golden Needles" by The Springfields. Hmm. Here's a little something for 'Old School Friday'. Turn down the lights and remember the days. Maybe not.
"Each night before you go to bed my baby, whisper a little prayer for me my baby, and tell all the stars above, this is __ __ __ __ __ __." Hint: This is a song with quite a history. Tell me the title in five words, and the girl group that had a major hit in the early 60s. This should be easy.
This morning we went to Bliss Studio to look at the photos that Chalit took of Lisa. We had only seen a few after the shoot, to pick something for the magazine. Lisa sat at his desk, in front of a giant Apple monitor, and went through a ton of images. There were so many good ones it was hard to make a choice, so we're getting a bunch of them on disk. There's also a really cute series with Daku and Lisa.
We stopped by the pharmacy warehouse for vitamins, and also got some surgical gloves for Lisa to use when she's working with the acrylic gel. Hmm, could also be a way to keep paint off of one's fingers. From there we went to the art supply store. There's just too much to see in one visit. An artist has to approach a store like that the way I have to go into Fry's, with focus. If you lose focus, you might never get out. Or you might buy more than you need.
On our way home we were traveling through the business district and a monk crossed the street carrying a computer in his arms. It always strikes me as odd/interesting when I see a picture like that. We have one big temple on the west side of town that is a center for new initiates. Sometimes I see the teens with cellphones and it becomes clear that they're just putting in the time. It's still common for boys of various ages to spend time as a monk. In the long run, it is part of what makes the culture.
Tomorrow we will go to meet the next possible framer for Lisa's artwork. Noni and Bob will pick us up in the morning and we'll take some of her work and see if he can do what we need. From the frames we saw in Bob's show, he knows how to do beautiful woodwork, but it's more involved with a cast acrylic print. Another adventure.
We will also get copies of the magazine 'Traversing the Orient' tomorrow. Jaffee is bringing them from Chiang Mai. We can't wait to see the four page spread on Lisa Moses, Thai artist. (555) Monday you'll get a full report.
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Now it's time for the 'Funnies'.
Peace,
Danny
MY LIVING WILL
Last night, my friend and I were sitting in the living room and I said to
her; "I never want to live in a vegetative state, dependent on some
machine and fluids from a bottle... If that ever happens, just pull the
plug."
So she got up, unplugged the TV, and threw out my wine.
She's such a bitch.....
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Spark
Hi,
There is rain in the forecast for the weekend. As for now, it's the same old beautiful weather as before. Today we went into town, decorations were put up for the festival, and we're going to a special art show opening.
I got quite a few responses on the 'Old Folk' song. Unfortunately there aren't a lot of lyrics to this song, but this is the one line that's different from what you got yesterday. "You can't buy my love with money for I never was that kind, __ __ __ __ __ cannot mend this heart of mine." Hint: The song is by a group who took the last name of two of it's members. Dust off that memory and look at the artist from 'Easy Monday'.
This morning we both had appointments with our 'hair people'. Mine took a lot less time so I hung out in a little park for awhile. Chiang Rai has places where one can just go and sit and relax. In addition to park areas, there are many salas (little houses) on the roadside and you will often see people resting, or eating in them. When a surprise rain comes it's the perfect shelter. They are basically small structures with open sides. The roof can be anything from tile to thatch.
Preparations are ramping up for the Festival of Loy Kratong. Colorful banners are being hung from lamp posts, special lights are up on Maefarluang Road, which leads to the festival grounds, and this evening I was briefly distracted by floodlights that were put on the bridge. I think the intention was to light up the bridge, but the angle of the lights shines them right into the traffic. Hmm, adjustments are called for here. Now that I know, I'll just avert my eyes. (Ha) The actual day of the festival is Sunday, the 21st, but I suspect the entire weekend will be one big party across the river. People all over Thailand will flock to the rivers and place Kratongs in the water. A Kratong is usually a small basket made of banana leaves, or bread shaped like a lotus flower. A candle and incense are set in the middle and some have floral arrangements as well. Many people put a few coins on them too. They are set afloat as an offering to the river, and to ask for forgiveness for any harm to it. It is also a releasing of grudges and anger, and float away bad luck. There are many stories about the purpose, but that's the one we were told the first year we went.
Saturday evening we'll be going to 9 Art Gallery for the opening of a show by two artists that will celebrate the birthday of the King. His birthday is on December 3, and the two artists will exhibit works that are all portraits, or representations of the King. It should be interesting.
Have a Thrilling Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"Buried deep within each of us is a spark of greatness,
a spark than can be fanned into flames of passion and achievement.
That spark is not outside of you it is born deep within you."
~James A. Ray
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
There is rain in the forecast for the weekend. As for now, it's the same old beautiful weather as before. Today we went into town, decorations were put up for the festival, and we're going to a special art show opening.
I got quite a few responses on the 'Old Folk' song. Unfortunately there aren't a lot of lyrics to this song, but this is the one line that's different from what you got yesterday. "You can't buy my love with money for I never was that kind, __ __ __ __ __ cannot mend this heart of mine." Hint: The song is by a group who took the last name of two of it's members. Dust off that memory and look at the artist from 'Easy Monday'.
This morning we both had appointments with our 'hair people'. Mine took a lot less time so I hung out in a little park for awhile. Chiang Rai has places where one can just go and sit and relax. In addition to park areas, there are many salas (little houses) on the roadside and you will often see people resting, or eating in them. When a surprise rain comes it's the perfect shelter. They are basically small structures with open sides. The roof can be anything from tile to thatch.
Preparations are ramping up for the Festival of Loy Kratong. Colorful banners are being hung from lamp posts, special lights are up on Maefarluang Road, which leads to the festival grounds, and this evening I was briefly distracted by floodlights that were put on the bridge. I think the intention was to light up the bridge, but the angle of the lights shines them right into the traffic. Hmm, adjustments are called for here. Now that I know, I'll just avert my eyes. (Ha) The actual day of the festival is Sunday, the 21st, but I suspect the entire weekend will be one big party across the river. People all over Thailand will flock to the rivers and place Kratongs in the water. A Kratong is usually a small basket made of banana leaves, or bread shaped like a lotus flower. A candle and incense are set in the middle and some have floral arrangements as well. Many people put a few coins on them too. They are set afloat as an offering to the river, and to ask for forgiveness for any harm to it. It is also a releasing of grudges and anger, and float away bad luck. There are many stories about the purpose, but that's the one we were told the first year we went.
Saturday evening we'll be going to 9 Art Gallery for the opening of a show by two artists that will celebrate the birthday of the King. His birthday is on December 3, and the two artists will exhibit works that are all portraits, or representations of the King. It should be interesting.
Have a Thrilling Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"Buried deep within each of us is a spark of greatness,
a spark than can be fanned into flames of passion and achievement.
That spark is not outside of you it is born deep within you."
~James A. Ray
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Force
Hi,
This morning's clouds looked like there might be the possibility of rain, but they soon blew away. The first part of this week has had us busy with final preparations for our winter trip to America.
There seems to be no fooling you. The 'Easy' song was "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me", by Dusty Springfield. Time for some 'Old Folk Crap' that you just might remember. "I don't want your lonely mansion with a tear in every room. All I want's to love you, promise, beneath the haloed moon. But you think I should be happy with your money and your name, and hide myself in sorrow while you play your cheating game. __ __ __ __ __ cannot mend this heart of mine..." Clue: This title has five words, straight from the sewing kit, and a singer we just talked about. Hmm.
Monday morning we went to the airport to get the final link in our trip to America. The timing of flights from Chiang Rai to Bangkok gets tricky when you have an international check-in time. As it turns out, just to be safe, we have to take a morning flight to BKK and wait all day for our flight out. Oh well, all in a days travel. We will arrive at LAX late on December 22 and leave on January 12.
In the afternoon while I was at acupuncture, Lisa and Atom worked on the titles for Lisa's artwork. Atom has been very helpful in the translating of English to Thai and keeping things in context. There are things in English that don't translate, so they have to figure out ways to get the point across. It works both ways. There is a lot of work to do in preparation for the show. We now have an opening date of February 12, 2011. We're going to meet a new frame maker on Saturday. He framed a recent show for our friend Bob, so Bob and his wife will introduce us to him and translate. This will be a whole new experience since the last framer spoke English. There is also a catalog to create. Our friend Martin is going to work with Lisa on this. There are moments when it all seems overwhelming, but after a few deep breaths, it's OK.
This afternoon we had a 'farewell' lunch with our friend Deirdre, from The Sold Project. She's been in Thailand for eight months and will be leaving next week. We talked about the experience of living in Thailand and the work she's been doing with the children. She will be missed by a lot of people. We really enjoyed getting to know her.
Tonight we went to the Night Bazaar. Lots of tourists are in town and that's good for a lot of folks. We spoke with one vendor who noted that there are not as many Thai tourists from Isaan and the south due to the flooding in those areas. As she put it, 'they have to clean their houses.' That was something we hadn't thought about. We had some shopping to do for the trip so we just dove in and the water was fine. There are many new items to chose from so it made it fun.
Time for a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"There is a soul force in the universe, which, if we permit it,
will flow through us and produce miraculous results."
~Mahatma Gandhi
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
This morning's clouds looked like there might be the possibility of rain, but they soon blew away. The first part of this week has had us busy with final preparations for our winter trip to America.
There seems to be no fooling you. The 'Easy' song was "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me", by Dusty Springfield. Time for some 'Old Folk Crap' that you just might remember. "I don't want your lonely mansion with a tear in every room. All I want's to love you, promise, beneath the haloed moon. But you think I should be happy with your money and your name, and hide myself in sorrow while you play your cheating game. __ __ __ __ __ cannot mend this heart of mine..." Clue: This title has five words, straight from the sewing kit, and a singer we just talked about. Hmm.
Monday morning we went to the airport to get the final link in our trip to America. The timing of flights from Chiang Rai to Bangkok gets tricky when you have an international check-in time. As it turns out, just to be safe, we have to take a morning flight to BKK and wait all day for our flight out. Oh well, all in a days travel. We will arrive at LAX late on December 22 and leave on January 12.
In the afternoon while I was at acupuncture, Lisa and Atom worked on the titles for Lisa's artwork. Atom has been very helpful in the translating of English to Thai and keeping things in context. There are things in English that don't translate, so they have to figure out ways to get the point across. It works both ways. There is a lot of work to do in preparation for the show. We now have an opening date of February 12, 2011. We're going to meet a new frame maker on Saturday. He framed a recent show for our friend Bob, so Bob and his wife will introduce us to him and translate. This will be a whole new experience since the last framer spoke English. There is also a catalog to create. Our friend Martin is going to work with Lisa on this. There are moments when it all seems overwhelming, but after a few deep breaths, it's OK.
This afternoon we had a 'farewell' lunch with our friend Deirdre, from The Sold Project. She's been in Thailand for eight months and will be leaving next week. We talked about the experience of living in Thailand and the work she's been doing with the children. She will be missed by a lot of people. We really enjoyed getting to know her.
Tonight we went to the Night Bazaar. Lots of tourists are in town and that's good for a lot of folks. We spoke with one vendor who noted that there are not as many Thai tourists from Isaan and the south due to the flooding in those areas. As she put it, 'they have to clean their houses.' That was something we hadn't thought about. We had some shopping to do for the trip so we just dove in and the water was fine. There are many new items to chose from so it made it fun.
Time for a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"There is a soul force in the universe, which, if we permit it,
will flow through us and produce miraculous results."
~Mahatma Gandhi
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Life
Hi,
Today I'll fill you in on the Sunday adventures of our three traveling house guests. The Festival of Loy Kratong is coming up this weekend, but it sounds like it's happening now. Fireworks of all description are either making loud noises, or pretty colors in the night sky.
The 'Easy' song was recognized by a few of you. Maybe the chorus will cause the title to spring into your mind. Hmm.
"__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ just be close at hand. You don't have to stay forever, I will understand. Believe me, believe me, I can't help but love you. But believe me, I'll never tie you down..." Hint: This is either true love or desperation.
Sunday morning was the last opportunity we had to go exploring, so I came up with an agenda that would fill the time, the eyes, and the mind. We started with a quick walk through the Chiang Rai Train Library. Then it was south on the Super Highway to Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple). This is a 'must see' for anyone coming this way. The visual impact of the exterior is enough to drop the jaw, but the inside of the temple, the gift shop, and the gallery are like being immersed in the dreams of a prolific artist. We spent about an hour checking everything out. If you Google Wat Rong Khun you will begin to understand. Being there in person is still the best way to see it, with sunlight bouncing off the thousands of mirror bits embedded in the white architecture.
It was approaching lunch time when we arrived at Big C. We went to Black Canyon, our favorite restaurant there, and everyone enjoyed yet another Thai meal. After lunch we toured the complex, to get an overview of the only 'mall' in Chiang Rai at this time. Something bigger is in the works but it's a couple of years off.
Our next stop was King Mengrai Square. This is a monument that is visited by tourists and Thais from all over Thailand. King Mengrai is the father of the Lanna Kingdom, before it was part of Thailand. The legend is that he made Chiang Rai the capitol because his elephant liked it here. People come and leave flowers, light incense, and offer prayers. When passing the square in cars, or on motorbikes you will often see people offering a 'wai' to Mengrai as a sign of respect.
We finally arrived back at the house just in time to get ready for the afternoon party we were having. Our guests got a chance to meet some of our friends and hang out. It was a great mix of people and the party was a big success. The whole visit was a wonderful experience for all of us. We got closer with Karen Jo, and got to know Sandy and Kenwood. We'll probably get together in Culver City while we're there, for some Thai food. (Ha)
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards."
~Soren Kierkegaard
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today I'll fill you in on the Sunday adventures of our three traveling house guests. The Festival of Loy Kratong is coming up this weekend, but it sounds like it's happening now. Fireworks of all description are either making loud noises, or pretty colors in the night sky.
The 'Easy' song was recognized by a few of you. Maybe the chorus will cause the title to spring into your mind. Hmm.
"__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ just be close at hand. You don't have to stay forever, I will understand. Believe me, believe me, I can't help but love you. But believe me, I'll never tie you down..." Hint: This is either true love or desperation.
Sunday morning was the last opportunity we had to go exploring, so I came up with an agenda that would fill the time, the eyes, and the mind. We started with a quick walk through the Chiang Rai Train Library. Then it was south on the Super Highway to Wat Rong Khun (The White Temple). This is a 'must see' for anyone coming this way. The visual impact of the exterior is enough to drop the jaw, but the inside of the temple, the gift shop, and the gallery are like being immersed in the dreams of a prolific artist. We spent about an hour checking everything out. If you Google Wat Rong Khun you will begin to understand. Being there in person is still the best way to see it, with sunlight bouncing off the thousands of mirror bits embedded in the white architecture.
It was approaching lunch time when we arrived at Big C. We went to Black Canyon, our favorite restaurant there, and everyone enjoyed yet another Thai meal. After lunch we toured the complex, to get an overview of the only 'mall' in Chiang Rai at this time. Something bigger is in the works but it's a couple of years off.
Our next stop was King Mengrai Square. This is a monument that is visited by tourists and Thais from all over Thailand. King Mengrai is the father of the Lanna Kingdom, before it was part of Thailand. The legend is that he made Chiang Rai the capitol because his elephant liked it here. People come and leave flowers, light incense, and offer prayers. When passing the square in cars, or on motorbikes you will often see people offering a 'wai' to Mengrai as a sign of respect.
We finally arrived back at the house just in time to get ready for the afternoon party we were having. Our guests got a chance to meet some of our friends and hang out. It was a great mix of people and the party was a big success. The whole visit was a wonderful experience for all of us. We got closer with Karen Jo, and got to know Sandy and Kenwood. We'll probably get together in Culver City while we're there, for some Thai food. (Ha)
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Life can only be understood backwards, but it must be lived forwards."
~Soren Kierkegaard
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Monday, November 15, 2010
Vision
Hi,
We had beautiful weather for our whirlwind weekend. Our visitors got a heavy dose of Chiang Rai, and are now in Vietnam. I'll fill you in on some of the high points.
The 'Old School' song was "You Never Can Tell", by Chuck Berry. The public got reintroduced to the song in the film Pulp Fiction. Many viewers didn't realize it was an 'Old School' song. Now you know. It's time for 'Easy Monday':
"When I said I needed you, you said you would always stay. It wasn't me who changed but you, and now you've gone away..." Clues: This song has eight words in the title. It was a hit in 1966 by a British singer who is still loved by many.
Saturday morning we went to the boat dock for a ride on the Kok river. Our destination was Ban Ruimit and the elephant rides. On our way we stopped at The Buddha Cave Temple. It's an amazing cave that has two big rooms that serve as a temple, and there's a monk who lives there. The natural skylight, the rock formations, and the quietness make for a serene experience. On our way to the elephants, my straw hat blew off and went into the river. Our boat driver turned the boat around and very skillfully brought it right up to the hat. I scooped it out and we continued our trip. We opted for the half hour ride, which is enough. There were four of us on two elephants. After a slow walk up the paved road we turned into the village neighborhood. We were greeted by a small group of children who were playing in their yard. Shouts of 'Hello', and 'Good morning' brought smiles to our faces. We saw sleeping pigs, colorful butterflies and exotic tropical flowers. When we got back to the camp we went across the road for coffee. The guy was playing a CD of 60s American hits. It was very strange to go from the quiet ride atop an elephant to the strains of Sonny and Cher singing 'I Got You, Babe'. The boat ride home always seems much longer, but there was so much to see that we really didn't mind.
We lunched in town at Aye's restaurant, had coffee at Doi Chaang, and then explored the market place. Our guests were amazed at the abundance of everything in the giant maze of the market. We returned to the house for some relaxation, and then went to dinner at Mu Mai, where we got to hear our friend Jenny sing. The rest of the evening was spent laughing and talking and eating the treats we got at the market.
I'll tell you about our Sunday adventures tomorrow. Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart...
Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens."
~Carl Jung
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
We had beautiful weather for our whirlwind weekend. Our visitors got a heavy dose of Chiang Rai, and are now in Vietnam. I'll fill you in on some of the high points.
The 'Old School' song was "You Never Can Tell", by Chuck Berry. The public got reintroduced to the song in the film Pulp Fiction. Many viewers didn't realize it was an 'Old School' song. Now you know. It's time for 'Easy Monday':
"When I said I needed you, you said you would always stay. It wasn't me who changed but you, and now you've gone away..." Clues: This song has eight words in the title. It was a hit in 1966 by a British singer who is still loved by many.
Saturday morning we went to the boat dock for a ride on the Kok river. Our destination was Ban Ruimit and the elephant rides. On our way we stopped at The Buddha Cave Temple. It's an amazing cave that has two big rooms that serve as a temple, and there's a monk who lives there. The natural skylight, the rock formations, and the quietness make for a serene experience. On our way to the elephants, my straw hat blew off and went into the river. Our boat driver turned the boat around and very skillfully brought it right up to the hat. I scooped it out and we continued our trip. We opted for the half hour ride, which is enough. There were four of us on two elephants. After a slow walk up the paved road we turned into the village neighborhood. We were greeted by a small group of children who were playing in their yard. Shouts of 'Hello', and 'Good morning' brought smiles to our faces. We saw sleeping pigs, colorful butterflies and exotic tropical flowers. When we got back to the camp we went across the road for coffee. The guy was playing a CD of 60s American hits. It was very strange to go from the quiet ride atop an elephant to the strains of Sonny and Cher singing 'I Got You, Babe'. The boat ride home always seems much longer, but there was so much to see that we really didn't mind.
We lunched in town at Aye's restaurant, had coffee at Doi Chaang, and then explored the market place. Our guests were amazed at the abundance of everything in the giant maze of the market. We returned to the house for some relaxation, and then went to dinner at Mu Mai, where we got to hear our friend Jenny sing. The rest of the evening was spent laughing and talking and eating the treats we got at the market.
I'll tell you about our Sunday adventures tomorrow. Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart...
Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens."
~Carl Jung
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Friday, November 12, 2010
Friday Funnies
Hi,
Today we had perfect weather for a road trip. We saw Hill Tribes, a Golden Triangle, and a Golden Clock Tower.
There's just no fooling you all when it comes to 'Old Folk Crap'. You were right, it was "Clementine", and there is no artist to blame it on. We do know from our research that Percy Montrose recorded it in 1884. Thank you Percy. (555) 'Old School Friday' is upon us once again. "It was a teenage wedding and the old folks wished them well. You could see that Pierre did truly love the madamoiselle. And now the young monsieur, and madame have rung the bell. 'C'est la vie' say the old folks, it goes to show __ __ __ __." Clue: This song about young love is by a true pioneer of Rock & Roll. Title is four words that old folks apparently say. Hmm.
This morning the van picked us up at 9am. As we drove north on the Super Highway, we pointed out landmarks and things that we find interesting. Our first stop was the Mixed Hill Tribe village, and after missing the turnoff and doubling back, we found it. This is the first time we've been to the village during the busy season. Even with all the other visitors, we managed to see all five tribes. When we got to the Long Neck Karen village their little school was in session. It was mostly early elementary age kids and they were learning the English alphabet. They asked questions in English and were very charming. The whole complex has grown, and more new buildings are on the way.
We arrived in Chiang Saen just in time for lunch. After a great meal at a little cafe that we like, it was time to take pictures with the elephant statues. A stroll of the stalls along the road revealed new items for the season. After lots of looking, purchases were made. We were going to get foot massages by the river, but the building is now a rock gallery. A quick drive up a hill and we were at the look-out point where you can see Burma, Laos, and Thailand.
On the way home Lisa booked a 5pm massage session for all of us. We had enough time to go home, relax, and dress for dinner. Then it was time to get our feet done. It was the first time we'd had a foot massage at our current favorite place. We were all in the same room, and it was the most thorough method yet. The joke, as we pulled away from the place, was that we all had 'Happy Feet'.
Dinner at Lelavadee was wonderful as always. After dinner we went into town to watch the 8pm light show at the Clock Tower. It's very hypnotic when the lights start changing colors. There are two different musical selections that add to the drama. It only lasts five minutes, but it's worth it. Then we walked to the Night Bazaar district, to the Edison department store post office so Sandy could buy some stamps. The postcard stamps are stunning little works. I may get some just to have them. (Ha)
Tomorrow morning we ride the river to ride the elephants. Have a Great WeekEnd.
Peace,
Danny
"Age is of no importance unless you're a cheese."
~Billie Burke
"If you think you are too small to be effective,
you have never been in the dark with a mosquito."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today we had perfect weather for a road trip. We saw Hill Tribes, a Golden Triangle, and a Golden Clock Tower.
There's just no fooling you all when it comes to 'Old Folk Crap'. You were right, it was "Clementine", and there is no artist to blame it on. We do know from our research that Percy Montrose recorded it in 1884. Thank you Percy. (555) 'Old School Friday' is upon us once again. "It was a teenage wedding and the old folks wished them well. You could see that Pierre did truly love the madamoiselle. And now the young monsieur, and madame have rung the bell. 'C'est la vie' say the old folks, it goes to show __ __ __ __." Clue: This song about young love is by a true pioneer of Rock & Roll. Title is four words that old folks apparently say. Hmm.
This morning the van picked us up at 9am. As we drove north on the Super Highway, we pointed out landmarks and things that we find interesting. Our first stop was the Mixed Hill Tribe village, and after missing the turnoff and doubling back, we found it. This is the first time we've been to the village during the busy season. Even with all the other visitors, we managed to see all five tribes. When we got to the Long Neck Karen village their little school was in session. It was mostly early elementary age kids and they were learning the English alphabet. They asked questions in English and were very charming. The whole complex has grown, and more new buildings are on the way.
We arrived in Chiang Saen just in time for lunch. After a great meal at a little cafe that we like, it was time to take pictures with the elephant statues. A stroll of the stalls along the road revealed new items for the season. After lots of looking, purchases were made. We were going to get foot massages by the river, but the building is now a rock gallery. A quick drive up a hill and we were at the look-out point where you can see Burma, Laos, and Thailand.
On the way home Lisa booked a 5pm massage session for all of us. We had enough time to go home, relax, and dress for dinner. Then it was time to get our feet done. It was the first time we'd had a foot massage at our current favorite place. We were all in the same room, and it was the most thorough method yet. The joke, as we pulled away from the place, was that we all had 'Happy Feet'.
Dinner at Lelavadee was wonderful as always. After dinner we went into town to watch the 8pm light show at the Clock Tower. It's very hypnotic when the lights start changing colors. There are two different musical selections that add to the drama. It only lasts five minutes, but it's worth it. Then we walked to the Night Bazaar district, to the Edison department store post office so Sandy could buy some stamps. The postcard stamps are stunning little works. I may get some just to have them. (Ha)
Tomorrow morning we ride the river to ride the elephants. Have a Great WeekEnd.
Peace,
Danny
"Age is of no importance unless you're a cheese."
~Billie Burke
"If you think you are too small to be effective,
you have never been in the dark with a mosquito."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Forgive
Hi,
Today we had adventures at the market, a trip to the airport, a visit to a gallery, and dinner at the Night Bazaar. It was a pretty full day. Tomorrow we hit the road.
A few of you really know your 'Old Folk Crap'. This one is a case of the song title being enough since there was never a popular/hit recording. At least I haven't found anything in over a century. Hmm. "Oh my darling, oh my darling, oh my darling __. You are lost and gone forever, dreadful sorry __." Clue: Boy falls for girl, girl falls in water, boy can't swim, boy loses girl.
This morning we went to the market for treats for our guests, and a small bed sheet. The treats were easy, the sheets were not. We asked the man who runs the fabric shop if he could point us in the right direction and he took us on a long adventure through a maze of corridors, to his cousin's shop. There we found a sheet.
This afternoon we went to the airport to pick up our guests. We got there early so we just hung out at the bookstore, had some iced tea, and watched people. Our friend Tye met us there to help with transportation to the house. Our little car was not big enough for people and luggage. It all worked out and everybody got to the house. After a tour of the house and some rest time, we started the evening.
Our first stop was 9 Art Gallery. It was nice to see the exhibit again. We saw it the night it opened, but daylight gave it a different look.
The Night Bazaar was our final destination. We had quite a feast at our favorite spot. After dinner the initial search for souvenirs began. We actually found some gift items we needed, and Sandy and Karen Jo found a few things to take back to America.
Back at the house we had the desserts from the market, and Kenwood showed us some items from his jade collection and explained their meanings. Then he offered one to each of us. The one I chose has two horses, and some ancient Chinese writing on the back. The two horses symbolize strength. Now I have to find someone to translate the ancient writings.
Tomorrow a van will arrive at 9am to take us north to the Golden Triangle, and Mae Sai. We'll also stop at the Mixed Hill Tribe Village along the way.
We'll have a Thrilling Thursday. You do the same.
Peace,
Danny
"We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive.
He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.
There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us.
When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies."
~Martin Luther King, Jr.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today we had adventures at the market, a trip to the airport, a visit to a gallery, and dinner at the Night Bazaar. It was a pretty full day. Tomorrow we hit the road.
A few of you really know your 'Old Folk Crap'. This one is a case of the song title being enough since there was never a popular/hit recording. At least I haven't found anything in over a century. Hmm. "Oh my darling, oh my darling, oh my darling __. You are lost and gone forever, dreadful sorry __." Clue: Boy falls for girl, girl falls in water, boy can't swim, boy loses girl.
This morning we went to the market for treats for our guests, and a small bed sheet. The treats were easy, the sheets were not. We asked the man who runs the fabric shop if he could point us in the right direction and he took us on a long adventure through a maze of corridors, to his cousin's shop. There we found a sheet.
This afternoon we went to the airport to pick up our guests. We got there early so we just hung out at the bookstore, had some iced tea, and watched people. Our friend Tye met us there to help with transportation to the house. Our little car was not big enough for people and luggage. It all worked out and everybody got to the house. After a tour of the house and some rest time, we started the evening.
Our first stop was 9 Art Gallery. It was nice to see the exhibit again. We saw it the night it opened, but daylight gave it a different look.
The Night Bazaar was our final destination. We had quite a feast at our favorite spot. After dinner the initial search for souvenirs began. We actually found some gift items we needed, and Sandy and Karen Jo found a few things to take back to America.
Back at the house we had the desserts from the market, and Kenwood showed us some items from his jade collection and explained their meanings. Then he offered one to each of us. The one I chose has two horses, and some ancient Chinese writing on the back. The two horses symbolize strength. Now I have to find someone to translate the ancient writings.
Tomorrow a van will arrive at 9am to take us north to the Golden Triangle, and Mae Sai. We'll also stop at the Mixed Hill Tribe Village along the way.
We'll have a Thrilling Thursday. You do the same.
Peace,
Danny
"We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive.
He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.
There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us.
When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies."
~Martin Luther King, Jr.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Truth
Hi,
Not a cloud in the sky, cold mornings, beautiful days. That's about it on the weather front. Today was filled with car-washing, shopping, sticking, and meeting. In between there was dog play.
Our 'Easy Monday' song was "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones. Day two brought lots of responses. Now it's time for 'Old Folk Crap'. Surely you remember this one from elementary school: "In a cavern, in a canyon, excavating for a mine lived a miner, forty-niner and his daughter, __." Clue: It's about a girl, lots of drama in this one.
This morning we started out for Big C to get party supplies and decided to get the car washed. After taking Daku to the vet's it usually pretty hairy inside. While the car was being washed we went into Doi Chaang for coffee. There we ran into my friend Eddy, who always has breakfast there. We also saw our friend Andrew, who manages A.U.A., the language school. Kevin from The Sold Project was with him and it ended up being a nice conversation stop. When we went to get the car it wasn't done so we walked up the street to the bakery to get bread. We visited with Jonathan the English Golden Retriever. Eventually we got back on the road to Big C.
After lunch, and a brief rest I had to go in for another acupuncture treatment. Oh joy.
We found out from Jaffee that the magazine article on Lisa will be four pages. It comes out this week. That was great news, but also meant that we had to set some prices for her art in case someone who read the article was interested. We met with Jaffee this afternoon, back at Doi Chaang and had a very productive session.
It's been a busy day, and evening. Lisa has been busy naming some of her works, and posting some of the newer work on her website. Drop by and check them out.
Tomorrow our guests arrive. There will be Karen Jo, Lisa's step sister, Sandy and her husband Kenwood. They will stay through Sunday. We have tons of activities planned, places to go, and things to do. On Sunday we're having a party so they can meet our friends.
Hang on for a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation,
nor does truth become error because nobody sees it."
~Ghandi
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Not a cloud in the sky, cold mornings, beautiful days. That's about it on the weather front. Today was filled with car-washing, shopping, sticking, and meeting. In between there was dog play.
Our 'Easy Monday' song was "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones. Day two brought lots of responses. Now it's time for 'Old Folk Crap'. Surely you remember this one from elementary school: "In a cavern, in a canyon, excavating for a mine lived a miner, forty-niner and his daughter, __." Clue: It's about a girl, lots of drama in this one.
This morning we started out for Big C to get party supplies and decided to get the car washed. After taking Daku to the vet's it usually pretty hairy inside. While the car was being washed we went into Doi Chaang for coffee. There we ran into my friend Eddy, who always has breakfast there. We also saw our friend Andrew, who manages A.U.A., the language school. Kevin from The Sold Project was with him and it ended up being a nice conversation stop. When we went to get the car it wasn't done so we walked up the street to the bakery to get bread. We visited with Jonathan the English Golden Retriever. Eventually we got back on the road to Big C.
After lunch, and a brief rest I had to go in for another acupuncture treatment. Oh joy.
We found out from Jaffee that the magazine article on Lisa will be four pages. It comes out this week. That was great news, but also meant that we had to set some prices for her art in case someone who read the article was interested. We met with Jaffee this afternoon, back at Doi Chaang and had a very productive session.
It's been a busy day, and evening. Lisa has been busy naming some of her works, and posting some of the newer work on her website. Drop by and check them out.
Tomorrow our guests arrive. There will be Karen Jo, Lisa's step sister, Sandy and her husband Kenwood. They will stay through Sunday. We have tons of activities planned, places to go, and things to do. On Sunday we're having a party so they can meet our friends.
Hang on for a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation,
nor does truth become error because nobody sees it."
~Ghandi
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Talking
Hi,
Our weather today was clear and windy. I was hoping it would blow in some rain clouds, but that was a silly thought. We did more 'getting ready' for our visitors, went to the vet, and hid from the smoke outside. Lisa is back in her studio working on another unique cast acrylic print.
I guess the time change has slowed down memories on the mainland. Two readers got the 'Easy' song so far. Maybe today it will be you. "I look inside myself and see my heart is __. I see my red door and must have it __ __. Maybe then I'll fade away and not have to face the facts. It's not easy facin' up when your whole world is __." Hint: There is a color involved that is actually the absence of light. This production used a sitar, which was just becoming popular in western music.
Every morning it's so cold that I have to get bundled up to go on patrol with Daku. An hour later it's too warm for it all and I start shedding clothes. It's actually warmer than it was last week. If we woke up at a civilized time it would be pleasant from the start. (Ha) That's right, blame it on the dog. Speaking of the dog, we took him to the vet today for his monthly injection to ward off insects. It seems to work because we haven't found any more 'hot spots' since he started getting the shots. As we arrived at the office, our friend Gary was also pulling up. He came for cat food. We talked for a bit and then it was time for business. We had a long wait and Daku did a pretty good job of staying cool. I had to leave the room when my cat allergy kicked in. I forgot to use my 'remedy' that makes it comfortable to be around cat vibes. Riding with Daku is interesting. He can't decide if he wants to put his head out of the window, or hide from the wind. Well, he has decided. He likes his head outside when we're sitting in traffic, and inside when the car is moving. Not your typical dog.
Tomorrow we're going to get a coat rack. Every winter we talk about getting one and never do. This time it happens. It will make things so much easier, not having to run upstairs or having 'used' coats lying around the dining room table. It will also be nice when guests come over.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"I've never learned anything while I was talking."
~Larry King
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Our weather today was clear and windy. I was hoping it would blow in some rain clouds, but that was a silly thought. We did more 'getting ready' for our visitors, went to the vet, and hid from the smoke outside. Lisa is back in her studio working on another unique cast acrylic print.
I guess the time change has slowed down memories on the mainland. Two readers got the 'Easy' song so far. Maybe today it will be you. "I look inside myself and see my heart is __. I see my red door and must have it __ __. Maybe then I'll fade away and not have to face the facts. It's not easy facin' up when your whole world is __." Hint: There is a color involved that is actually the absence of light. This production used a sitar, which was just becoming popular in western music.
Every morning it's so cold that I have to get bundled up to go on patrol with Daku. An hour later it's too warm for it all and I start shedding clothes. It's actually warmer than it was last week. If we woke up at a civilized time it would be pleasant from the start. (Ha) That's right, blame it on the dog. Speaking of the dog, we took him to the vet today for his monthly injection to ward off insects. It seems to work because we haven't found any more 'hot spots' since he started getting the shots. As we arrived at the office, our friend Gary was also pulling up. He came for cat food. We talked for a bit and then it was time for business. We had a long wait and Daku did a pretty good job of staying cool. I had to leave the room when my cat allergy kicked in. I forgot to use my 'remedy' that makes it comfortable to be around cat vibes. Riding with Daku is interesting. He can't decide if he wants to put his head out of the window, or hide from the wind. Well, he has decided. He likes his head outside when we're sitting in traffic, and inside when the car is moving. Not your typical dog.
Tomorrow we're going to get a coat rack. Every winter we talk about getting one and never do. This time it happens. It will make things so much easier, not having to run upstairs or having 'used' coats lying around the dining room table. It will also be nice when guests come over.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"I've never learned anything while I was talking."
~Larry King
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Monday, November 8, 2010
Heart
Hi,
I'm happy to report that the flu has left the building. We're both on the mend and back in the swing of things. Today we went to Big C, so we must be better.
Nobody got the 'Old School' song. What? I'm going to extend this one just to see if you're paying attention. This is sort of like a scavenger hunt. You have to go with the clue, then go somewhere else to figure it out. The clue itself is in the music portion of the November 1 message with the word 'Freedom' as the subject. Now, on with 'Easy Monday'. "I see a red door and I want it __ __. No colors any more I want them to turn __. I see the girls walk by dressed in their summer clothes, I have to turn my head until my darkness goes..." Hint: The song title is actually three words, but the lyrics change the tense of the first word. I know, complicated. It's a song of misery, and sadness by a group from across the pond during the 60s, named after a blues tune. They're still making music after all these years.
The weekend was fairly quiet around here. Sunday afternoon I ventured out and picked up dinner at WCH (the hamburger place). While I was waiting for the order, one of the servers had me sit so I could watch the TV mounted on wall. Then he brought the remote so I could change the channel. That was a real surprise. How many places will let you mess with the TV? The weird thing is, I ordered a chicken burger and expected the giant sandwich that I'd gotten there before. When I got home it was a much smaller burger. I'll have to ask Barry about this the next time we eat there. What we had was good, just not enough. The lesson: look inside the box.
Saturday night we got to see a couple of brief volleys of fireworks that were set off somewhere to the north of us. Big colorful displays filled the air. I just figured out that all the noise makers and displays are the warm-up for the coming holiday later this month. Late November means it's time for Loy Kratong, the river festival.
Since we hadn't been to Big C for a week, the list was a bit long. We were able to restock all of our basic supplies plus a few things for the party we're having on Sunday.
Last week the last thing I could have dealt with was an acupuncture appointment. Not that they'd even want me in the room. Anyway, I went in today and got stuck. On my way home I heard happy laughter coming from somewhere. I realized it was coming from the pick-up truck I was following. It was filled with a family. There was an older woman sitting on something facing the rear, and she had a huge smile on her face. On either side were about five or six kids with small gongs, a tambourine, and wood blocks. There was also a man with a hand drum. They were playing rhythms as they rode along. The one they were playing ended and they laughed, and exchanged instruments and started a new rhythm. It was a picture of 'joy in the moment'. It made me smile.
If you happen to see anything on the news about an incident at the Thai/Burmese(Myanmar) border, it's nowhere near us. In fact, we had to look for it on a map. It's several hundred miles southwest of our location. Just thought I'd set your minds at ease. Life in Chiang Rai is the same as it ever was. Later this week I'll share the adventures we have with our house guests as we go sight-seeing in and around Chiang Rai.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"The best and most beautiful things cannot be seen or touched.
They must be felt with the heart."
~Helen Keller
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
I'm happy to report that the flu has left the building. We're both on the mend and back in the swing of things. Today we went to Big C, so we must be better.
Nobody got the 'Old School' song. What? I'm going to extend this one just to see if you're paying attention. This is sort of like a scavenger hunt. You have to go with the clue, then go somewhere else to figure it out. The clue itself is in the music portion of the November 1 message with the word 'Freedom' as the subject. Now, on with 'Easy Monday'. "I see a red door and I want it __ __. No colors any more I want them to turn __. I see the girls walk by dressed in their summer clothes, I have to turn my head until my darkness goes..." Hint: The song title is actually three words, but the lyrics change the tense of the first word. I know, complicated. It's a song of misery, and sadness by a group from across the pond during the 60s, named after a blues tune. They're still making music after all these years.
The weekend was fairly quiet around here. Sunday afternoon I ventured out and picked up dinner at WCH (the hamburger place). While I was waiting for the order, one of the servers had me sit so I could watch the TV mounted on wall. Then he brought the remote so I could change the channel. That was a real surprise. How many places will let you mess with the TV? The weird thing is, I ordered a chicken burger and expected the giant sandwich that I'd gotten there before. When I got home it was a much smaller burger. I'll have to ask Barry about this the next time we eat there. What we had was good, just not enough. The lesson: look inside the box.
Saturday night we got to see a couple of brief volleys of fireworks that were set off somewhere to the north of us. Big colorful displays filled the air. I just figured out that all the noise makers and displays are the warm-up for the coming holiday later this month. Late November means it's time for Loy Kratong, the river festival.
Since we hadn't been to Big C for a week, the list was a bit long. We were able to restock all of our basic supplies plus a few things for the party we're having on Sunday.
Last week the last thing I could have dealt with was an acupuncture appointment. Not that they'd even want me in the room. Anyway, I went in today and got stuck. On my way home I heard happy laughter coming from somewhere. I realized it was coming from the pick-up truck I was following. It was filled with a family. There was an older woman sitting on something facing the rear, and she had a huge smile on her face. On either side were about five or six kids with small gongs, a tambourine, and wood blocks. There was also a man with a hand drum. They were playing rhythms as they rode along. The one they were playing ended and they laughed, and exchanged instruments and started a new rhythm. It was a picture of 'joy in the moment'. It made me smile.
If you happen to see anything on the news about an incident at the Thai/Burmese(Myanmar) border, it's nowhere near us. In fact, we had to look for it on a map. It's several hundred miles southwest of our location. Just thought I'd set your minds at ease. Life in Chiang Rai is the same as it ever was. Later this week I'll share the adventures we have with our house guests as we go sight-seeing in and around Chiang Rai.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"The best and most beautiful things cannot be seen or touched.
They must be felt with the heart."
~Helen Keller
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Friday, November 5, 2010
Friday Funnies
Hi,
Things are progressing slowly at the Big Brown Infirmary. Symptoms seem to be rotating between mild fever, stuffiness, coughs, aches, and 'Oh I feel better now'. The only thing constant around here is the weather, and it's beautiful.
The song that so many of you knew for 'Old Folk Crap' was "Kisses Sweeter Than Wine" by Jimmie Rodgers. That recording was actually a cover of the original by The Weavers. This song has an incredible history so I'm going to direct you to Google the song, and click on the Wiki page. It's all there for your education. Just to get you there, I'll tell you that it started out as a song about a cow. Now you're curious. For 'Old School Friday' you're going to have to think on your feet. "__ __, for you love and affection, __ __, you better look in my direction, __ __, and if you're lookin' fine I might lose my mind, __ __, I'm __ __..." Clues: Most of you were only introduced to this song this week, even though it happened a long time ago. It's about an arrival, by a group named for a curious fabric. The directions to the answers to all your questions, and the blanks, are sitting in your inbox. If you delete my mail, you may never know the song. That is, until Monday. Have fun.
I think the hardest thing about being sick is the difficulty in concentrating for any length of time. We did manage to stay focused long enough this morning to go back to the hospital/clinic so Lisa could consult with the doctor, and eliminate a bunch of the stuff he gave her. Conflicting side-affects are not good. We had ordered a new HEPA filter for our air purifier and it was delivered during lunch. It's the main filter so it's really important for it to be right. I would guess that having a 'clean' room will help with our comfort on the respiratory part of all this.
We went outside this afternoon to sit in the sun. Boot was watering the gardens and the dogs were doing their doggie things. I happened to go around the side of the house in search of Daku, and found him digging in one of the flower beds. He'd made a big mess. He couldn't deny a thing when Lisa told him she saw grass in his teeth. (Ha)
BamBam was in the back eating leaves from a little tree that's already been stripped of it's flowers by both of them. Oh my.
Fireworks are going off behind our house, more thumping bass across the river to the front. I guess we'll just have to have a little marathon of an old show and lose ourselves. There are no big plans this weekend, which is good news. The only thing going is the Brazilian F1 Grand Prix. Next week is the last of the season. Your time is running out.
Have a Wonderful Weekend. I'll be back all bright and cheery on Monday. Some of you may relate to these old school comments that I'm passing off as 'Funnies'. (555)
Peace,
Danny
Comments made in the year 1955! (That's 55 years ago!)
'I'll tell you one thing, if things keep going the way they are, it's going to be impossible to buy a week's groceries for $20.00.
'Have you seen the new cars coming out next year? It won't be long before $2,000.00 will only buy a
used one.
'Did you hear the post office is thinking about charging a dime just to mail a letter?
'If they raise the minimum wage to $1.00, nobody will be able to hire outside help at the store. '
'When I first started driving, who would have thought gas would someday cost 29cents a gallon?
Guess we'd be better off leaving the car in the garage.
'Did you see where some baseball player just signed a contract for $75,000 a year just to play ball?
It wouldn't surprise me if someday they'll be making more than the President.
'I never thought I'd see the day all our kitchen appliances would be electric.
They are even making electric typewriters now.
'I'm afraid the Volkswagen car is going to open the door to a whole lot of foreign business.
'The drive-in restaurant is convenient in nice weather, but I seriously doubt they will ever catch on.
'If they think I'll pay 50 cents for a hair cut, forget it.'
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Things are progressing slowly at the Big Brown Infirmary. Symptoms seem to be rotating between mild fever, stuffiness, coughs, aches, and 'Oh I feel better now'. The only thing constant around here is the weather, and it's beautiful.
The song that so many of you knew for 'Old Folk Crap' was "Kisses Sweeter Than Wine" by Jimmie Rodgers. That recording was actually a cover of the original by The Weavers. This song has an incredible history so I'm going to direct you to Google the song, and click on the Wiki page. It's all there for your education. Just to get you there, I'll tell you that it started out as a song about a cow. Now you're curious. For 'Old School Friday' you're going to have to think on your feet. "__ __, for you love and affection, __ __, you better look in my direction, __ __, and if you're lookin' fine I might lose my mind, __ __, I'm __ __..." Clues: Most of you were only introduced to this song this week, even though it happened a long time ago. It's about an arrival, by a group named for a curious fabric. The directions to the answers to all your questions, and the blanks, are sitting in your inbox. If you delete my mail, you may never know the song. That is, until Monday. Have fun.
I think the hardest thing about being sick is the difficulty in concentrating for any length of time. We did manage to stay focused long enough this morning to go back to the hospital/clinic so Lisa could consult with the doctor, and eliminate a bunch of the stuff he gave her. Conflicting side-affects are not good. We had ordered a new HEPA filter for our air purifier and it was delivered during lunch. It's the main filter so it's really important for it to be right. I would guess that having a 'clean' room will help with our comfort on the respiratory part of all this.
We went outside this afternoon to sit in the sun. Boot was watering the gardens and the dogs were doing their doggie things. I happened to go around the side of the house in search of Daku, and found him digging in one of the flower beds. He'd made a big mess. He couldn't deny a thing when Lisa told him she saw grass in his teeth. (Ha)
BamBam was in the back eating leaves from a little tree that's already been stripped of it's flowers by both of them. Oh my.
Fireworks are going off behind our house, more thumping bass across the river to the front. I guess we'll just have to have a little marathon of an old show and lose ourselves. There are no big plans this weekend, which is good news. The only thing going is the Brazilian F1 Grand Prix. Next week is the last of the season. Your time is running out.
Have a Wonderful Weekend. I'll be back all bright and cheery on Monday. Some of you may relate to these old school comments that I'm passing off as 'Funnies'. (555)
Peace,
Danny
Comments made in the year 1955! (That's 55 years ago!)
'I'll tell you one thing, if things keep going the way they are, it's going to be impossible to buy a week's groceries for $20.00.
'Have you seen the new cars coming out next year? It won't be long before $2,000.00 will only buy a
used one.
'Did you hear the post office is thinking about charging a dime just to mail a letter?
'If they raise the minimum wage to $1.00, nobody will be able to hire outside help at the store. '
'When I first started driving, who would have thought gas would someday cost 29cents a gallon?
Guess we'd be better off leaving the car in the garage.
'Did you see where some baseball player just signed a contract for $75,000 a year just to play ball?
It wouldn't surprise me if someday they'll be making more than the President.
'I never thought I'd see the day all our kitchen appliances would be electric.
They are even making electric typewriters now.
'I'm afraid the Volkswagen car is going to open the door to a whole lot of foreign business.
'The drive-in restaurant is convenient in nice weather, but I seriously doubt they will ever catch on.
'If they think I'll pay 50 cents for a hair cut, forget it.'
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Music
Hi,
The weather here is more of the same. Clear skies, cold mornings turning into breezy, moderate days. Lisa went to the doctor today, and came home with a bag of medicine. I played frisbie with Daku, and the beat goes on across the river.
'Old Folk Crap' seems to be triggering a lot of memories. At least some of you are remembering the song.
"Well I asked her to marry and to be my sweet wife, I told her we'd be happy for the rest of our life. I begged and I pleaded like a natural man, and then, whoops oh lordy, well she gave me her hand because she had __ __ __ __, she had, mmm, mmm, __ __ __ __." Hint: There's a beverage in there, and something tastes like it. Hmm.
Early this morning I took Lisa to Overbrook to see a doctor. He told her she had bronchitis, and dispensed a bunch of stuff. I don't think she'll take it all, there are limits. Anyway, with more rest she should be better soon.
Daku and I went out and played with the frisbie. He caught it a bunch of times, though it was just a short distance. He's still working on his 'eye/mouth' coordination. If I toss it just right, he can catch it. He also likes to run after it and bring it back. It's odd because he won't do that with a ball. When he's done playing he just walks away. What a dog.
The big festival across the river is for O.T.O.P, which stands for One Tambon, One Product. It's a program that has helped various districts to develop a product to represent them in the market place. It's like a village trade show. We went during the first year we were here and it's really something to see. We'll miss it this year, but next year we'll be sure to make it.
Today's quote was 'lifted' from the Risingstardom website. Thank Blue.
Our friend Wayne, in Texas, suggested I have a Full Throttle Thursday. You do the same.
Peace,
Danny
"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything."
~Plato
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
The weather here is more of the same. Clear skies, cold mornings turning into breezy, moderate days. Lisa went to the doctor today, and came home with a bag of medicine. I played frisbie with Daku, and the beat goes on across the river.
'Old Folk Crap' seems to be triggering a lot of memories. At least some of you are remembering the song.
"Well I asked her to marry and to be my sweet wife, I told her we'd be happy for the rest of our life. I begged and I pleaded like a natural man, and then, whoops oh lordy, well she gave me her hand because she had __ __ __ __, she had, mmm, mmm, __ __ __ __." Hint: There's a beverage in there, and something tastes like it. Hmm.
Early this morning I took Lisa to Overbrook to see a doctor. He told her she had bronchitis, and dispensed a bunch of stuff. I don't think she'll take it all, there are limits. Anyway, with more rest she should be better soon.
Daku and I went out and played with the frisbie. He caught it a bunch of times, though it was just a short distance. He's still working on his 'eye/mouth' coordination. If I toss it just right, he can catch it. He also likes to run after it and bring it back. It's odd because he won't do that with a ball. When he's done playing he just walks away. What a dog.
The big festival across the river is for O.T.O.P, which stands for One Tambon, One Product. It's a program that has helped various districts to develop a product to represent them in the market place. It's like a village trade show. We went during the first year we were here and it's really something to see. We'll miss it this year, but next year we'll be sure to make it.
Today's quote was 'lifted' from the Risingstardom website. Thank Blue.
Our friend Wayne, in Texas, suggested I have a Full Throttle Thursday. You do the same.
Peace,
Danny
"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything."
~Plato
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Education
Hi,
Today was clear and cool in the morning, but warm and pleasant by the afternoon. I think I've turned a corner with this flu thing, but Lisa is where I was a few days ago. We actually left the house.
A bunch of you remembered "50 Ways To Leave Your Lover" by Paul Simon. Now it's time to gather around the virtual campfire for some 'Old Folk Crap'. This week let's sing this: "Well, when I was a young man, never been kissed I got to thinkin' it over, how much I had missed. So I got me a girl and I kissed her and then, and then oh, lordy, well I kissed her again because she had __ __ __ __..." Clue: Written in the 50s as an adaptation of a blues. Seems to be a lot of kissin' going on. Special points if you can tell me the original source.
This morning we both had the early morning blues. Symptoms were on us but we did what had to be done. Take the dog out, get breakfast, and go back to bed. By mid morning we got up the courage to go into town for things like cough medicine, and a new thermometer. We also needed spaghetti sauce for our lunch, which is always a great motivator. (Ha) At the warehouse pharmacy we ended up with two bottles of cough syrup. The pharmacist asked us the nature of the cough and proceeded to give us two kinds. It seems that at most of the pharmacies they dispense certain products based on your consultation with them. Anyway, we came out with more than we went for and it seems to be helping.
After lunch we both crashed, and I think that was the turning point for me. I felt good enough to go back downtown to get bread. Considering that it was in the middle of the 'rush' hour, it was a pretty brave thing to do. I took the dogs out for some exercise and had Daku chase the skunk toy. Then he and BamBam chased each other. I'm trying to pace myself, and not over exert. I'd like to be rid of this yesterday.
We have house guests coming next week so this afternoon we went into tour director mode and made a list of the things that would be fun/interesting to see and do. It's a great time to visit since it's not too hot, everything is still green and lush, and the season is just beginning, which means there are lots of new things from the local artisans. We're starting to get excited about it ourselves.
Feel like a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Education is what remains after one has forgotten everything he learned in school."
~Albert Einstein
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today was clear and cool in the morning, but warm and pleasant by the afternoon. I think I've turned a corner with this flu thing, but Lisa is where I was a few days ago. We actually left the house.
A bunch of you remembered "50 Ways To Leave Your Lover" by Paul Simon. Now it's time to gather around the virtual campfire for some 'Old Folk Crap'. This week let's sing this: "Well, when I was a young man, never been kissed I got to thinkin' it over, how much I had missed. So I got me a girl and I kissed her and then, and then oh, lordy, well I kissed her again because she had __ __ __ __..." Clue: Written in the 50s as an adaptation of a blues. Seems to be a lot of kissin' going on. Special points if you can tell me the original source.
This morning we both had the early morning blues. Symptoms were on us but we did what had to be done. Take the dog out, get breakfast, and go back to bed. By mid morning we got up the courage to go into town for things like cough medicine, and a new thermometer. We also needed spaghetti sauce for our lunch, which is always a great motivator. (Ha) At the warehouse pharmacy we ended up with two bottles of cough syrup. The pharmacist asked us the nature of the cough and proceeded to give us two kinds. It seems that at most of the pharmacies they dispense certain products based on your consultation with them. Anyway, we came out with more than we went for and it seems to be helping.
After lunch we both crashed, and I think that was the turning point for me. I felt good enough to go back downtown to get bread. Considering that it was in the middle of the 'rush' hour, it was a pretty brave thing to do. I took the dogs out for some exercise and had Daku chase the skunk toy. Then he and BamBam chased each other. I'm trying to pace myself, and not over exert. I'd like to be rid of this yesterday.
We have house guests coming next week so this afternoon we went into tour director mode and made a list of the things that would be fun/interesting to see and do. It's a great time to visit since it's not too hot, everything is still green and lush, and the season is just beginning, which means there are lots of new things from the local artisans. We're starting to get excited about it ourselves.
Feel like a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Education is what remains after one has forgotten everything he learned in school."
~Albert Einstein
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Dance
Hi,
The 'new weather' will take some getting used to. We had to open up the containers with the warm shirts, the ones with sleeves. It's hard to imagine. Thank you to those who asked how I'm feeling. It's a little hard to say. Mostly the same I guess, and now Lisa's got the achy eyes and the cough. I do have a few Bangkok (BKK) stories so stick around.
'Easy Monday' will be a snap on Tuesday with the lyrics to the chorus. I did get some correct responses. Sing on.
"You just slip out the back, Jack. Make a new plan, Stan. You don't need to be coy, Roy, just get yourself free. Hop on the bus, Gus.... there must be __ __ __ __ __ __." What more can I tell you. The first blank is a number. Hmm.
Lisa told me that while I was in BKK, Daku would go to my side of the bed and rest his chin there. At night he'd go there, sniff around and lie down. When I got home he was super excited. I just wish I could go outside and play with him. That's what he wants. He comes over to my side of the bed and paws me and looks at me with those pleading eyes.
I stayed at a fairly nice hotel, not upscale, and it was really interesting to hang out near the lobby and listen to all the different languages. There was a big Rugby tournament going on and there must have been about five teams staying at the Ambassador. I've watch a little bit of the sport, but to see these guys in person is impressive. Most of them are hulks. Across the street, there is a garden restaurant, and Friday night they had a jazz quartet with a woman fronting the group. They played a lot of jazz classics and it was a real treat to be able to just stand across the street for a little entertainment. Inside I discovered that they have a model train layout, complete with detailed landscape and a working train. That brought back childhood memories.
Except for my trip to Pantip Plaza on Friday evening, I stayed close to the hotel. Saturday I went searching for a market that I remembered from my last visit. On the way I encountered many groups of young women who were supposedly advertising for the various massage parlors on the block. Some had little cat whiskers drawn on their faces in honor of Halloween. I just struck me that it doesn't take five girls to tell you about a tiny business down the walkway. Oh well, it's Bangkok. It's all different there, compared to Chiang Rai. In fact, the mention of Chiang Rai brings big smiles from Bangkok locals. It's someplace they'd all like to experience.
There are two 7-11s on the block. One large and one tiny. I ended up in both of them. The big one has an old dog that hangs out in front. Everyone seems to know this dog, sometimes speaking to him, sometimes petting him. He's quite at home either on the front step or in the street by the curb. The dogs that seem to be loosely attached to someone are pretty mellow. The wild packs are another story, but I only know them from the country. I'll take the mellow dog every time.
Sunday morning, when I got to the airport I noticed two farangs (foreigners) checking their baggage. They caught my eye because they had hockey sticks. I did a double take, made sure I was seeing right, and just kept walking. I'm sure there's an ice rink in Bangkok. Now my curiosity has been peaked so I'll have to do some investigating. (555) There are many things I still have to learn about this wonderful, mysterious country. Over time I will share what I find. In the meantime, I need to do some more 'vegging'. You understand.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor."
~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
The 'new weather' will take some getting used to. We had to open up the containers with the warm shirts, the ones with sleeves. It's hard to imagine. Thank you to those who asked how I'm feeling. It's a little hard to say. Mostly the same I guess, and now Lisa's got the achy eyes and the cough. I do have a few Bangkok (BKK) stories so stick around.
'Easy Monday' will be a snap on Tuesday with the lyrics to the chorus. I did get some correct responses. Sing on.
"You just slip out the back, Jack. Make a new plan, Stan. You don't need to be coy, Roy, just get yourself free. Hop on the bus, Gus.... there must be __ __ __ __ __ __." What more can I tell you. The first blank is a number. Hmm.
Lisa told me that while I was in BKK, Daku would go to my side of the bed and rest his chin there. At night he'd go there, sniff around and lie down. When I got home he was super excited. I just wish I could go outside and play with him. That's what he wants. He comes over to my side of the bed and paws me and looks at me with those pleading eyes.
I stayed at a fairly nice hotel, not upscale, and it was really interesting to hang out near the lobby and listen to all the different languages. There was a big Rugby tournament going on and there must have been about five teams staying at the Ambassador. I've watch a little bit of the sport, but to see these guys in person is impressive. Most of them are hulks. Across the street, there is a garden restaurant, and Friday night they had a jazz quartet with a woman fronting the group. They played a lot of jazz classics and it was a real treat to be able to just stand across the street for a little entertainment. Inside I discovered that they have a model train layout, complete with detailed landscape and a working train. That brought back childhood memories.
Except for my trip to Pantip Plaza on Friday evening, I stayed close to the hotel. Saturday I went searching for a market that I remembered from my last visit. On the way I encountered many groups of young women who were supposedly advertising for the various massage parlors on the block. Some had little cat whiskers drawn on their faces in honor of Halloween. I just struck me that it doesn't take five girls to tell you about a tiny business down the walkway. Oh well, it's Bangkok. It's all different there, compared to Chiang Rai. In fact, the mention of Chiang Rai brings big smiles from Bangkok locals. It's someplace they'd all like to experience.
There are two 7-11s on the block. One large and one tiny. I ended up in both of them. The big one has an old dog that hangs out in front. Everyone seems to know this dog, sometimes speaking to him, sometimes petting him. He's quite at home either on the front step or in the street by the curb. The dogs that seem to be loosely attached to someone are pretty mellow. The wild packs are another story, but I only know them from the country. I'll take the mellow dog every time.
Sunday morning, when I got to the airport I noticed two farangs (foreigners) checking their baggage. They caught my eye because they had hockey sticks. I did a double take, made sure I was seeing right, and just kept walking. I'm sure there's an ice rink in Bangkok. Now my curiosity has been peaked so I'll have to do some investigating. (555) There are many things I still have to learn about this wonderful, mysterious country. Over time I will share what I find. In the meantime, I need to do some more 'vegging'. You understand.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Opportunity dances with those who are already on the dance floor."
~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Monday, November 1, 2010
Freedom
Hi,
The cold season is officially here. Nights in Chiang Rai are now in the 50s, not a cloud in the sky, with daytime highs in the low 80s. I have a few Bangkok stories, but I'll save them for when I'm feeling better. It's hard to concentrate with a low grade fever and achy everything.
The 'Old School' song that several of you knew was "Long Tall Sally", by Little Richard. Most of these old songs can be heard if you do a search in either Google or Youtube. It's amazing, how much music has been uploaded. In fact, if you do a Youtube search for Mosaic Tweed, you will hear the band I was in back in the late 60s singing "Comin' Home". You can hear what I sounded like as a young man. Big thanks to my dear friend Frank for letting me know. For 'Easy Monday' check this out: "'The problem is all inside your head', she said to me. The answer is easy if you take it logically. I'd like to help you in your struggle to be free, there must be __ __ __ __ __ __." Hint: The singer/writer was once part of a duo. Suggestions on dodging a relationship. There is a number involved.
This bug I have began in Bangkok, or before, so I may only have a day or so left. Bear with me, I'll be back to my chatty self before you know it. (Ha) I'll just rest and enjoy the constantly thumping bass from across the river. There's a big expo/carnival happening. So what if it's Monday night. Chiang Rai loves to party. What a place.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Although we have been made to believe
that if we let go we will end up with nothing,
life itself reveals again and again the opposite;
that letting go is the path to real freedom."
~Sogyai Rinpoche
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
The cold season is officially here. Nights in Chiang Rai are now in the 50s, not a cloud in the sky, with daytime highs in the low 80s. I have a few Bangkok stories, but I'll save them for when I'm feeling better. It's hard to concentrate with a low grade fever and achy everything.
The 'Old School' song that several of you knew was "Long Tall Sally", by Little Richard. Most of these old songs can be heard if you do a search in either Google or Youtube. It's amazing, how much music has been uploaded. In fact, if you do a Youtube search for Mosaic Tweed, you will hear the band I was in back in the late 60s singing "Comin' Home". You can hear what I sounded like as a young man. Big thanks to my dear friend Frank for letting me know. For 'Easy Monday' check this out: "'The problem is all inside your head', she said to me. The answer is easy if you take it logically. I'd like to help you in your struggle to be free, there must be __ __ __ __ __ __." Hint: The singer/writer was once part of a duo. Suggestions on dodging a relationship. There is a number involved.
This bug I have began in Bangkok, or before, so I may only have a day or so left. Bear with me, I'll be back to my chatty self before you know it. (Ha) I'll just rest and enjoy the constantly thumping bass from across the river. There's a big expo/carnival happening. So what if it's Monday night. Chiang Rai loves to party. What a place.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Although we have been made to believe
that if we let go we will end up with nothing,
life itself reveals again and again the opposite;
that letting go is the path to real freedom."
~Sogyai Rinpoche
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
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