Thursday, March 31, 2011

Beautiful

Hi,

Our hot season is back now. Chiang Rai had a very warm day and tonight is the same. Today we went to Central Plaza for our first peek. There was more art at the Rimkok, and the pool got a diagnosis.

It would seem that the 'Summer of Love' has not left the memories of many of you. Here's a bit more of the song.
"Beauty I'd always missed with these eyes before. Just what the truth is, I can't say any more, cause I love you. Yes I love you. Oh how I love you." Hint: One of the four words in the title is a fabric commonly used in sheets. The music was a fusion of Rock and Classical and was very dramatic.

This morning we got an early start on an excursion to Central (pronounced Centrun) Plaza. When we arrived, people were streaming into the parking lot, but it was easy to find a place. There is a row of restaurants along the outside. Only one was open, and it had customers buying pizza at 10:30 in the morning. The mall was to open at 10am but the doors were locked. The only entrance was to Robinson (not to be confused with Robinsons), a major department store chain. We went in and browsed through different sections, checking out what they had to offer. It was a far cry from the Night Bazaar. We hung out there until almost time for the mall to open. That's when we found the bookstore. For Chiang Rai, it has a huge art section and Lisa got a bunch of tiny bottles of colors she'd never seen. We then strolled down another row of restaurants and one of them had a robot that was cruising the area inviting customers inside. We found a very large section with nothing but I.T. stuff. Computers, printers, accessories, and more all in one area. On the third floor was the cinema, but it looked like all the movies are in Thai. Our final stop was at Tops Market. Chiang Rai has never had a grocery store like this. We even found wax paper, which Lisa uses in her cast acrylic print process. She bought four boxes. This is big because we usually have to have someone send it from the States. We'll be going back to see more very soon.

This afternoon Lisa went back to the Rimkok to work on her art piece. Some of the artists are nearly done with their projects, after two days. Lisa had a piece that she 'pulled' from it's polyethylene base, and two guys with video cameras captured the moment. Another artist came over to her work station and was very interested in what she was doing. There was also a little girl who studied her every move as she painted flowers on a work in progress. Tomorrow is the last day of 'work', followed by a dinner.

Our friend Johan came over today to check out the pool. He confirmed that there are leaks in previously filled cracks and a new one. We'll probably monitor the level, let it go down, fill the cracks and see what happens. It will be a few weeks before anything can be done so if the water warms up, we just may swim in a shallow pool. (Ha)

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

Peace,
Danny

"Though we travel the world to find the beautiful,
we must carry it within us or we will find it not."
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Things

Hi,

Chiang Rai was in a warming phase today. By the afternoon the sun was shining and it was T-shirt weather. That's how it's supposed to be this time of year. Lisa spent the day with fellow artists, Central Plaza opened, and the pool has sprung a leak.

As is usually the case, day two of 'Easy Monday' brought lots of correct responses. The 'Summer of Love' song should be pretty easy for a lot of you: "__ __ __ __ never reaching the end. Letters I've written, never meaning to send..." Hint: Be careful how you spell this one. There's no jousting going on. (Ha). The group, formed in '64, came from across the pond in '67 with this big hit.

This morning I took Lisa to the Rimkok Resort for the first full day of art. Most of the morning for her was spent listening to several artists lecturing about Thai art and tradition. Unfortunately it was all in Thai and the person who was going to translate was not there. She noticed that many of the students who were brought to the event looked pretty bored with the whole thing. After lunch they got down to work. A canvas, easel, and all types of paints and brushes were supplied. I went over in the afternoon to drop off a tool that Lisa uses and took a little tour of the different work areas. There was a wide range of styles, techniques, and processes. Some artists were working with acrylic and brushes, I saw one using oil and a metal blade. Another was working with what looked like a shaving brush for a specific effect. There were artists in the ballroom, on balconies, and in the gardens. Three were spotted on the steps down to the river. Much of the work, even in its early stages, was beautiful. They will continue to work through Friday, and present the works on Saturday morning.

I had this plan to go down near the new Central Plaza and park the car, then get a Tuk-Tuk for the ride to the main entrance. I didn't go today, and that's OK. My guess is that it was a crush of monumental proportions so another day or two won't make much difference. It will be interesting to see how this mega-mall impacts some of the small merchants in town.

We've been noticing that since the earthquake, the pool has seemed to be slowly losing water. The night of the event I knew that water had splashed out, but as the days went by, it got lower. I was the last one in the house to let go of my denial and admit that something was wrong. Our house earthquake insurance covers the pool so at least repairs can be approached. Now we have to let Johan and his crew determine just what is leaking and how they can fix it. Hmm. The Rimkok has a big pool if the weather gets really hot and the pool is 'down'.

Time for Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"The best things in life are not things."
~Unknown

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

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Somebody

Hi,

Today was more of the same weather wise. It was cloudy and cold with great expectations of rain. We went into town in the morning, watched tennis in the afternoon, and Lisa dined with fellow artists in the evening.

'Easy' came easy for a lot of you. Maybe this line from the last verse will ring a bell. The artist's name is not real.
"...when you ain't got nothing, you got nothing to lose, you're invisible, you got no secrets to conceal. How does it feel? To be on your own, with no direction home, like a complete unknown. Just __ __ __ __?" Hint: The song appears to be putting down a socialite.

First thing this morning Khun Lar delivered Lisa's artwork to the house. Because there is no glass in the frames, the pieces weren't very heavy, and it made the job of carrying them into the house pretty simple. The next step will be hanging as many as possible around the house so we can enjoy them before the Bangkok show.

Yesterday we didn't get to see the whole O.T.O.P. Expo, so we went to the fairgrounds. We started with the first aisle we hadn't seen and went up and down the length of the huge, temporary quonset hut. I got bold and actually sampled a treat that was offered. It was like a crispy peanut flavored snack and it was so good I bought three little packs. On another aisle a pair of casual pants with colorful flowers caught Lisa's eye. We saw many things that we'd never seen before, learned a few things, and bought some black rice. It isn't grown by most farmers, and is used to make a form of sticky rice. When we got home we asked Boot if she could make some and after reading the label she simply said: "Cannot do". Eventually we'll get to sample the black rice, but it probably won't be soon.

We had a nice lunch and rested while watching tennis from Florida. We had to go out again but dozing seemed in order. We had to take one of Lisa cast acrylic prints to the gallery so they could deliver it to the woman who bought it. Then we had some banking to do. We saw our friend Bobby, who is an assistant manager, and had a brief exchange about the earthquake. He had been studying for an exam and told us he was very frightened. This seems to be the response from most people here in Chiang Rai. A quake like the one we experienced has never happened here, from what we're told. There are sometimes small earthquakes that feel like what a Californian would call a minor aftershock. We saw some photos today from Burma, near the epicenter, and there was a lot of destruction of property and roadways. Many of the houses were not very well made and they just crumbled. We're feeling very fortunate.

This evening was the beginning of the "100 Artists for Thailand" project that Lisa is participating in at the Rimkok Hotel. The hotel is just down the road from us so it's very convenient. Tonight was a dinner for all the artists. I dropped her off and as we arrived we saw a local artist that we like. Later Lisa called to tell me that many of the artists had brought their wives, or girlfriends to the dinner. I got myself together and headed over the hotel. Just as I got there Lisa called to say she was ready to come home. We went out onto the back lawn where the dinner was held so I could say 'Hello' to people I knew, and meet some of the artists at Lisa's table. Khun Sompong, from 9 Art Gallery was helping Lisa communicate with some of the artists. Tomorrow they will begin doing what they do in a big meeting hall. The artists come from all over Thailand. Khun Songdej, who organized the event, has come up with a great project that not only brings artists together, but will also expose their work since the pieces produced this week will be donated to the new government building in Chiang Rai.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"Somebody needs who you are becoming."
~Unknown

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

Monday, March 28, 2011

Who

Hi,

The weather in Chiang Rai is cold. The days are not too bad, but the nights are like winter time. The weekend kept looking like it was going to rain, but it didn't. We did some TV shopping, watched the Grand Prix, and got an unexpected phone call from America.

The 'Old School' song was "The Great Pretender" by The Platters. Only a few of you got that one. 'Easy Monday' will make you feel better: "Once upon a time you dressed so fine, you threw the bums a dime in you prime, didn't you? People'd call, say, 'Beware doll, you're bound to fall'. You thought they were all kiddin' you... How does it feel? With no direction home, like a complete unknown, just__ __ __ __?" Clue: A breakout hit by a 'poet' who is still going strong after all these years. This should be easy.

We got our first TV in Thailand when we lived in the rental house. It fit the room just right, but now that we've been living in a bigger room, the screen is a bit small so we decided to investigate getting a larger screen. Things have really changed in the three plus years since that first set. We went to Sinthanee to see what they had. It had just started drizzling when we arrived and as we got out of the car a young man came rushing over with a very large umbrella to escort us to the door of the store. We went in the wrong door, the motorbike showroom, and when we came out he was there to take us to the correct showroom. When we left he was right there with the umbrella. That's what I call service.

We did the usual Big C run, but planned on eating at home since the race was on at lunch time. We had a picnic in the guest room so we could watch the pre-race show. It was kind of fun eating in a different room. The race went on during our nap time (I have to speak to them about scheduling) and I think we may have dozed through a few turns. (Ha)

In the afternoon the phone rang and I didn't recognize the number. The voice on the other end said it was 'Joe' from Emerald. I knew in a flash who it was. Emerald Thai is one of our favorite restaurants in Los Angeles and Joe was calling for Nid, the owner. Nid got on the phone and was concerned about us since he'd heard about the earthquake. It was very touching that they would call. Nid hasn't been back to Thailand in 25 years and is a dear friend.

This morning we were supposed to take delivery of all of Lisa's artwork from the exhibit. The framer had to do some corrections on the frames and they were all finished. We called and asked them to come tomorrow since it looked like rain. That gave us time to go over to the O.T.O.P. (One Tambone One Product) Expo across the river. It was an incredible array of goods representing different districts in the Province. We saw beautiful fabrics, leather work, and jewelry. There were some very creative variations on traditional Thai clothing also. We'll be going back since we didn't get a chance to see it all. In the evening it's like a carnival, with a ferris wheel, and tons of people.

Have a Great Week.

Peace,
Danny

"It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not."
~Unknown

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

Friday, March 25, 2011

Friday Funnies

Hi,

It's been a little over 24 hours since the big earthquake that rocked Thailand. We're OK, and things are getting back to normal. We've had some aftershocks, with some that felt like earthquakes. We spent the day at home, just hanging out, trying to find out more about what happened in different areas. All of our friends are OK, though some were a little freaked out since it was their first quake. It was pretty intense for about one minute. Those of you in California know what I'm talking about. Keep in mind that there is a difference between Chiang Rai the city, and Chiang Rai the province. Here in the city there have been no fatalities, but there was some cracking of walls and some spires toppled at a few temples. The news sometimes gets things mixed up.

The 'Summer of Love' song was "(Take Another Little) Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin & Big Brother and The Holding Company. Congrats to all who knew it. Now, once again, it's time for 'Old School Friday' and this is classic:
"Oh-oh, yes, I'm __ __ __, pretending that I'm doing well. My need is such I pretend too much, I'm lonely but no one can tell..." Hint: I've made it easy showing you the first verse. The singer is playing a role, or sorts. And he's good at it. The group was named after what records used to be called.

This evening we went to a going away party for our friend Rachel, the Director of the Sold Project, who has been managing the project for a year. All of the kids from the center made lunch and brought it to her today. Tomorrow night they all plan to go to the airport to see her off. A Flickr site is being set up with photos taken by the kids. I'll let you know about it when I get the link.

Not much else happening except the Australian F1 Grand Prix on Sunday, and Lisa will be participating in a project called "100 Thai Artists" next week. They will meet at the Rimkok Resort, which is just down the road from our house. The first event will be a dinner, and the next two days they will create works to be donated to the new government building not far from us. Oh yes, on Wednesday there will be the opening of Central Plaza, the giant mall that will make Chiang Rai the shopping mecca of the north. Hmm.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Enjoy the 'Funnies'.

Peace,
Danny

FUNNY ENGLISH NOTICES AROUND THE WORLD! (Part 1)

Here are some signs and notices written in English that were
discovered throughout the world. You have to give the writers an
'E' for Effort. We hope you enjoy them.

In a Tokyo Hotel:
Is forbidden to steal hotel towels please. If you are not a
person to do such thing is please not to read notis.

In a Bucharest hotel lobby:
The lift is being fixed for the next day. During that time we
regret that you will be unbearable.

In a Leipzig elevator:
Do not enter the lift backwards, and only when lit up.

In a Belgrade hotel elevator:
To move the cabin, push button for wishing floor. If the cabin
should enter more persons, each one should press a number of
wishing floor. Driving is then going alphabetically by
national order.

In a Paris hotel elevator:
Please leave your values at the front desk.

In a hotel in Athens:
Visitors are expected to complain at the office between the
hours of 9 and 11 A.M. daily.

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

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Ready

Hi,

After a day of driving, getting lost, finding our way, and smiling a lot, we're back in Chiang Rai. We found the elephants, and I got the passport. I guess that's all that really mattered.

It looks like a bunch of you really remember the 'Summer of Love', and this song by a whisky drinking lead singer.
"You're out on the streets looking good, and baby deep down in your heart I guess you know that it ain't right. Never (x5) hear me when I cry at night, babe I cry all the time... But when you hold me in your arms, I'll sing it once again. I'll say come on, come on, come on, come on and take it! (__ __ __) __ __ __ __... you know you got it, child, if it makes you feel good." Clue: The band name was like a 'business'. Hmm.

We got a later start to the day than planned, so we had breakfast in the hotel. It was quite an experience. The whole place is very modern, almost what one might call 'Euro Chic'. The dining room servers were very attentive and we had a nicer breakfast than if we'd eaten at the diner we were going to go to. After checking out we set out to find the Maesa Elephant Camp. We got lost partly because the map was not oriented to north and south. We finally got on the right road and drove to the turn-off that led us into the mountains. The area was full of 'adventure' spots that offered everything from ATV excursions, to bungie jumping, monkey camps, and horse riding facilities.

The elephant camp is a beautiful place with a big stream flowing over rocks, and elephants everywhere we looked. We were too late for the show, but just walked around looking at paintings by the elephants on our way to the nursery. There is a one year old, and a three month old that were too cute for words. There were two fairly young ones who were taking pictures with some visitors. They were very well trained and rather clever. When someone sat on their knee, they would either set their trunks on the guests shoulder or wrap them up. If you held out money they would come forward and take it from you. Lisa sat with the elephants and one of them put a hat on her head. The whole thing was well worth the extra driving.

When we got back to town it was still too early to go to the Consulate so we decided to have lunch. Our friend Sutheera had told us about a place we just had to check out. It was called "The Good View" and it was right on the Mae Ping River. It was empty when we arrived so we got a table looking out on the river. Lunch was good and it was very relaxing.

Going to the Consulate is always interesting, because they go through whatever bag you bring with you. They take everything out, check it and then put some things back and keep others. We still don't know why they keep things like lipstick, car keys, and mints, but let you take the rest. Curious. Anyway, I got my new passport along with the old one, with holes punched in it. Now we have to go to Mae Sai and have things like my visa and the pages with certain stamps put into the new one. This is sure to be another adventure.

Tomorrow evening we'll be attending a going away party for our friend Rachel. I'm getting excited about the start of the new season of Formula One, so hang on to your seats. (Ha)

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

Peace,
Danny

"Everything you need or want has a way of showing
up as soon as you're ready for it."
~Unknown

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

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Voyage

Hi,

Today was a good day. We're in the city of Chiang Mai, and staying at the nicest hotel we've been in yet. We had lunch in a garden, met with friends, and dabbled at the Night Bazaar.

The 'Easy Monday' song was "Rain" by The Beatles. Yeah, you knew that from the weather reference. It's time to go back to the 'Summer of Love' for a dramatic tune by a young woman and a band that rocked Monterey.
"Didn't I make you feel like you were the only man, yeah? Didn't I give you nearly everything that a woman possibly can? Honey, you know I did. And each time I tell myself that I, well I think I've had enough, but I'm gonna show you baby, that a woman can be tough. I want you to come on, come on, come on, come on and take it, (__ __ __) __ __ __ __ (repeat several times)...." Clue: She's telling him she's willing to take whatever, and he can take something as well.

Our trip down the highway to Chiang Mai was the usual twisty, turny drive through the mountains and valleys. We stopped at our usual coffee spot at the midway point, and made good time. When we arrived in town I called my friend Mark and we made plans for lunch. He met us at our hotel, The Dusit D2, and we walked to what looked like a ceramics shop. In the rear was a restaurant that had a large garden area. We sat among the trees at a little table and had lunch and some great conversation. It's some place we'll probably try again.

After lunch the walk back to the hotel in the heat was enough to signal 'nap time'. Later we went to the local Starbucks for coffee and then decided on dinner at a place close by. There were other choices, but getting around was not something I was looking forward to, so we opted for easy. By the time we finished dinner most of the vendors were going strong on the street. It was odd to be at a Night Bazaar while the sun was still shining. In Chiang Rai it's usually dark when they set up.

Lisa spent the evening with our friend Natty, who is living in Chiang Mai, and I met with some friends of mine. Tomorrow morning we'll follow the map directions and go to the Maesa Elephant Camp to see the show and watch the elephants paint. This should be exciting. From there we'll go to the Consulate and get my new passport and then return to Chiang Rai. Whew. The adventure continues.

Get ready for Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"The voyage of discovery lies not in seeking new vistas but in
having new eyes."
~Anonymous

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

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Key

Hi,

It's that time of year when thin cotton, shorts, and sandals are the order of the day. Chiang Rai is in the hot season.

'Easy Monday' was easy for some, and puzzling for others. Today may clear up some of the cloudiness. (Ha)
"When the sun shines, they slip into the shade, and sip their lemonade. When the sun shines, when the sun shines. __, I don't mind. Shine, the weather's fine." Clue: Did I mention that it's by those four lads from Liverpool?

Today I watered the south 40, and Lisa had a video conversation with our friend Lisa, who lives in Nevada. Lisa and Lisa talked for a long time, we saw their new litter of kittens, their dogs, and she got to see our dogs. Lots of animal stories were exchanged and the whole thing was pretty cool.

Boot had to go see her doctor today so Lisa cooked a delicious lunch. After our nap we went to Doi Chaang for coffee and a carwash. All of the people at the places we went when Blue was in town all wanted to know where he was. The bakery, the carwash, and the greeter at Sawasdee, all wondered where he was. I guess we became the three musketeers. And maybe it means that he's destined to return.

Tomorrow morning we drive down to Chiang Mai for an overnight adventure. The main purpose is to pick up my new passport. They only give out new passports on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1:30 and 3:30pm. Don't ask me why, I just follow the rules. We'll meet our friends Mark and Letiga for lunch, roam around Chiang Mai a bit, and do the Night Bazaar in the evening. Thursday morning we're going to try and find the Maesa Elephant Camp. This is the place where the elephants learn to paint. This trip we're trying a different hotel. The WiFi is supposed to be complimentary in all rooms. They don't realize that I'm testing to see if this is real. It will surely be better than the last time.

In the meantime, Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone."
~Unknown

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

Monday, March 21, 2011

Trust

Hi,

We had a warm, sunny weekend here in Chiang Rai. Actually, it was hot. The big adventure was a road trip on Saturday evening to the opening of an art exhibition. Sunday we lunched with some new friends.

Many of you got the 'Old School' song. It was "Stormy Weather", first sung by Ethel Waters and sung by many artists through the years. Now let's get busy with 'Easy Monday'. This song should be easy:
"If the __ comes they run and hide their heads, they might as well be dead, if the __ comes, if the __ comes."
Hint: It's one word that everyone in SoCal can relate to about now. Yes, it's another weather song.

There is a Thai artist named Songdej Thipthong who has had quite a career in the art world. He invited us to the opening of his new exhibit, which is a permanent installation in his village near the town of Mae Chan. We rode north with Khun Jaffee and were totally blown away when we arrived. We had expected to see most of the local artists, and some of the people we usually see at openings. It turns out this was a village event. It looked like at least 2 or 3 hundred people were gathered in the big front yard. There was traditional Lana food everywhere we looked. As we made our way toward the back of the property, we saw a new building that was the gallery. It was a rather modern looking house but the doors were closed. In the courtyard in front of the house the principle guests were seated and they were just beginning the ceremony. Khun Tawan Duchanee, one of Thailand's most revered artists, was the presenter. He read a long poem he had written for Songdej. Right before that there were young girls doing a traditional dance in full costume. After the poem, a large blank canvas was set up and Tawan painted one of his signature Falcons, making massive, dramatic brush strokes. When he was done they opened the large accordion doors to the house and a big cheer went up.

Inside, there was a high ceiling and the walls were covered with mostly large paintings by Songdej. The crowd pressed forward and eventually we got inside. The work was all in acrylic and the detail was amazing. At the far end of the main room there was a unique staircase that consisted of wooden steps that stuck out from the wall. There was a bamboo handrail on the wall and nothing else. We carefully climbed the stairs to see the small bedroom that was finished in raw concrete and bamboo. I'll be posting some photos later this week. We found out that the attendees were the entire village, and also two bus loads of students from Bangkok who were attending a workshop at Tawan's compound (The Black House). It was the party of the year. There was also live music and we had a wonderful time.

Sunday we met with our friend Rachel for lunch. She brought along two young people who were visiting from the States and doing a photo project with the kids from The Sold Project. They brought a bunch of cameras on their trip and each of the children will be given one to take pictures of whatever they want. The end result should be very interesting.

Down by the river they've started constructing bamboo shelters with thatch roofs in preparation for the festivities that will take place next month during the Songkran Festival. Time to break out the flower shirts.

Have a Great Week.

Peace,
Danny

"As soon as you trust yourself, you will know how to live."
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

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

Friday, March 18, 2011

Friday Funnies


Hi,

It was a beautiful day in Chiang Rai. The air was crisp, the sky was almost clear, and the traffic was heavy. We left the house for a morning excursion into town. The dogs are very happy.

The 'Summer of Love' segment was brought to you by The Turtles, singing "Happy Together". 'Old School Friday' goes way back this week. This song was written and first recorded in 1933. You get a 'free pass' on the artist since so many have recorded it. "Don't know why, there's no sun up in the sky __ __..." Hint: It's about something I've been fussing about all week. This is easy. 'Cool Points' will be awarded if you can tell me the first vocalist to record this song.

Last night we kept checking to see if the rain had really stopped. It had, and this morning the pavement outside was dry. When I took Daku out on patrol it had been days since he'd actually smelled the ground. I knew everything had changed so I let him take his time. It's interesting to see how methodical dogs can be sometimes.

We set out for town with a list of things to pick up, and drop off. As it happened, most of it was on Bus Station street so that was our destination. First stop was the guitar store for a set of strings. While I was waiting for change, I noticed an electric violin on the counter. Hmm, things are getting progressive in Chiang Rai. Down the street a bit we found the perfect parking place right in front of the pet supply store. It was time for another giant bag of dog food and some treats. When that was done we just walked back a few yards to Sahapaiboon to see our friends and pick up a tool box for Lisa's art supplies. As we were checking out, I saw a spray bottle of a product to stop slipping on tile surfaces. We definitely need something like that. Non-slip tile is just a fantasy.

A few minutes drive up the highway and we were at 9 Art Gallery. We had to return a bowl that Khun Nine brought on Sunday. It had contained a fish salad. Lisa also had a 'thank you' gift for the many nice things she did during the course of the exhibition.

This evening we're hanging out watching sports shows. The tennis from Indian Wells in on, and also the Asian Winter Games so we're going back and forth. Next weekend the Formula One season begins. Zoom.

Tomorrow we're going to Mae Chan in the evening for the opening of an exhibition/open house. The artist apparently is turning his home into a permanent installation. I'll tell you about this on Monday. It's going to be an evening to remember, with most of the 'community' probably turning out. One of the patriarchs of the Chiang Rai scene will be the presenter.

Today's picture is Daku all bundled up on a recent chilly night.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. It's time for the 'Funnies' and a 'Thanks' to my friend Christopher.

Peace,
Danny

During a recent password audit by Microsoft & Google,
It was found that a blonde was using the following password:

"MickeyMinniePlutoHueyLouieDeweyDonaldGoofySacramento"

When asked why she had such a long password, she said
She was told that it had to be at least 8 characters
Long and include at least one capital.

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

Thursday, March 17, 2011

See

Hi,

It finally stopped raining. Three days of straight rain gets a little tiresome. I won't be watering the lawns for some time now. On top of the rain, it got really cold. So cold that we had to bring in the heater, and put a quilt on the bed.

Well, a lot of you remember this one. A few of you couldn't get the name of the group. I'll give you more clues.
"Me and you, and you and me, no matter how they tossed the dice, it had to be, the only one for me is you, and you for me so __ __. I can't see me loving nobody but you, for all my life...." Clues: The group name is an animal that carries its house on its back, so to speak. Some live in the desert, and some swim in the sea. The song is a happy love song.

Not much has been happening around here other than the water from the sky. The dogs have been wanting to go out and play, but since they can't, they're very frisky around the house. BamBam is sporting her sweater and Daku keeps looking out the window, hoping for something to happen. I took him out this afternoon during a slowdown in the rain. He ran all over, and chased the frisbee until he was beat. I found my rain boots so now I can go out and slosh around with him in the puddles.

I went into town for an hour this morning and life was going on as usual. One good thing about the rain; it forces people to wear their helmets. If nothing else than to keep their heads dry. Sadly, the Night Bazaar merchants lose out in this kind of weather. I suppose the vegetable vendors that sit on the street in the market also have to stay at home. Speaking of home, there are many people who live in what could only be called a shelter. Some have thatch houses and others, like the people down the road, live in sheet metal sheds that do little to keep out the cold. These nights must be very difficult for them.

Next week we'll be going down to Chiang Mai to get my new passport. I'm just hoping the skies are cooperative and there's no rain.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

Peace,
Danny

"It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see."
~Henry David Thoreau

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Universe

Hi,

Blue leaves tonight and we'll miss him for sure. The weather has become the topic of conversation in Chiang Rai. It's still raining and now it's cold. Winter is supposed to be gone. We're supposed to be wearing light cotton, swimming in the afternoon, and running the air/con. Instead it's layers of clothing, fans off, windows closed, and I'm wearing socks. It's just not right.

For those of you still pondering, the 'Easy Monday' song was "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones. It's time once again, to ramble back to 1967 and the 'Summer of Love'. "Imagine me and you, I do, I think about you day and night, it's only right, to think about the girl you love and hold her tight, so __ __..." Hint: It's a cheery song by a group that had many incarnations. In this one they were named after a self-contained being. Hmm.

This morning we went to the vegetable market, and then hung out at Doi Chaang. We lunched at Big C, and it was weird to go there and not go upstairs to shop. After lunch we took Blue to see the Fair Trade Hill Tribe store near the Clock Tower. They've made some improvements and now there are little cards telling about the tribes. The selection keeps growing and it's nice to know that the people doing the work are getting a fair price for their labor and creativity.

The dogs don't like it when it rains like this because they don't get their extended play outside. This morning I went out with Daku and stood under an umbrella while he 'checked' the yard and ran through puddles. I think if it had been raining harder he would have come right back to the house. Both dogs have taken every opportunity to get attention from Blue. BamBam is a little more sophisticated about it. She sits next to him and offers her paw and enjoys the petting. Daku wants to be all macho, trying to get Blue to get up and play, or go outside. This doesn't work and we usually have him sit or lie next to us until he calms down. He's still a teen-ager at heart.

One thing about all this rain is that everything is turning green. It's really the 'brown' season so this is very cool. The golf course is looking good, just like our yard. If it would do this once a week I could live with that. Three days and a forecast for more is just too much. OK, I'm done complaining about the weather.

Yesterday I mistakenly called it Wacky Wednesday. This is really It!

Peace,
Danny

"The universe is full of magical things
patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper."
~Eden Phillports

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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Read

Hi,

Last week I went on and on about how hot it was, and now it's over. Today it rained off and on all day, and it's cool. We went out this morning, spent the afternoon inside, and went out this evening. Nice day.

A few of you got this 'Easy' song. I expected to hear from more of you, but I guess you're waiting for more clues.
"When I'm ridin' 'round the world, and I'm doin' this and I'm signing that, and I'm tryin' to make some girl, who tells me 'baby better come back later next week, 'cause you see I'm on a losing streak.' (__ __ __ __), oh no no no..."
Clue: Some folks can't be satisfied until they have all the clues.

The yard crew came to groom the compound this morning. It started to drizzle but that didn't stop them. They work almost all day and the place looks great.

Once the yard folks were settled in we went to Big C for some supplies. Blue wanted to get a Chiang Rai United jersey for Ming, and we needed a few things so Lisa can bake cookies this evening. Our local football (soccer) team played their first game of the season on Sunday. It was one of those 0-0 endings, but the word is that we were robbed of a goal. There was quite a buzz around the table where they were selling the team stuff. There are clocks, scarves, hats, watches, shirts and more, all with the CRUTD logo. This little town is really growing up.

After we left Big C we made the U-turn on the highway and paused at the Bigger C, the new Central Plaza, so Blue could take some photos. The construction is going full steam ahead since they have a supposed March 30 opening date that's being advertised. The crews are working 24 hours a day to complete the entire project. Hmm, it's going to change the whole area with what it has to offer.

This is Blue's last full evening in Chiang Rai for this visit so we went to the Night Bazaar for dinner. It was still raining lightly and most of the vendors had not set up. It was a bit eerie to see all the empty spaces. After dinner we drove to the traffic circle where The Clock Tower lives and went to a place called Kaffee Hub. It's a very trendy spot that's a coffee shop/restaurant with a chic atmosphere, lots of wood, and a mystic that says 'you must be here'. We sat near the sidewalk and watched the Clock Tower light show that goes on at 8pm every night. There must have been some rain damage because near the end of the final sequence the lights just went out. They finally came back on, but without the pretty colors. Oh well, it's not like we've never seen it before. It's one of those things you have to do when you come to town.

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"You may be the only Bible somebody ever reads."
~Mark Twain

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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Monday, March 14, 2011

World

Hi,

We had a big storm here in Chiang Rai, an art show at the gallery, a party at the house, and a Hill Tribe expedition. There was also sadness for the people of Japan.

The 'Old School' song was "Be-Bop-A-Lula" by Gene Vincent. It's time for 'Easy Monday' and we'll start the week with this: "When I'm drivin' in my car and that man comes on the radio, and he's tellin' me more and more about some useless information, supposed to fire my imagination. (__ __ __) oh no no no. (__ __ __ __) __ (repeat). 'Cause I try, and I try, and I try, and I try...." Clue: Singer isn't getting what he needs. It's by a band who came across the water in the 60s, and they're still around.

Saturday afternoon we were just leaving downtown when it started to sprinkle. By the time we got home it was really raining. It rained hard for several hours. We planned to go to 9 Art Gallery for the opening of a new exhibit and wondered if we'd make it. The rain slowed down and we decided to go. There was a small gathering at the gallery and the show, by two artists, was very nice. We saw people we knew and got invited to another opening next week at the home of a local artist who will make it a permanent installation.

Sunday was spent preparing for the party. Lisa made her Thai style tuna salad, and little chicken sausages. Blue and I had lunch at the River House and then returned with ice and plates. The guests began arriving in the early afternoon and by 3:30 it was in full swing. We had about 20 guests, and there were a lot of interesting conversations on the patio. The sky was cloudy, but never rained. Everyone had a good time, and after the last folks left, we dashed off to meet Sutheera and Nukoon for dinner. That was very enjoyable, with good food, lots of laughter, and the sharing of some good memories.

This morning Blue and I went up the highway to visit two Hill Tribe villages. He had photos he had taken last year that he wanted to pass out. It was fun watching the looks on the peoples' faces when they saw themselves in the photos. One village is very productive, with farms maintained by each of the tribes. The second village was very primitive, but still full of smiling faces.

This afternoon we went to Arisara for a massage. As always, we left feeling very relaxed. I had a different person this time but she did a very good job of working out the 'kinks'.

I have to readjust the schedule in my mind so I can start my message to fit with the new time on the west coast in the U.S. One of those little things that happens every time Daylight Savings time goes into effect.

Have a Great Week.

Peace,
Danny

"The world is round, and the place which may seem like
the end may also be only the beginning."
~Ivy Baker Priest

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Friday, March 11, 2011

Friday Funnies

Hi,

It was a hotter day in Chiang Rai today. This morning we went to Big C, marveled at the size of Central Plaza, and went to the Night Bazaar this evening. Attention is very divided right now, watching earthquake coverage.

Most of you who play the song game knew the song in spite of my first day error. The actual title is: "San Francisco (be sure to wear some flowers in your hair)". It was sung by Scott Mckenzie and was written by John Phillips of the Mamas & Papas. Now you know. Hey, it's time for 'Old School Friday' and I hope this is easy for you: "Well, she's the girl in the red blue jeans, she's the queen of all the teens. She's the one that I know, she's the one that loves me so. Say __-__-__-__, she's my baby. __-__-__-__, I don't mean maybe (repeat) __-__-__-__, she's my baby love, my baby love, my baby love." Clue: This is from 1956, and is a good example of the 'Rockabilly' style that emerged. You should also know that the title is more of a string of sounds as opposed to specific words. Hmm.

This morning we started our day with a visit with an architect friend of ours. We'd never been to his office so it was a treat to see examples of his work hanging on the walls.

On the way to Big C we stopped at the Tractor Store so Blue could see Jen and her sons. It was a great reunion, with the usual questions and conversation. We continued south to view the Central Plaza from it's main driveway. We usually see it from the highway, but this gave a different perspective. The Plaza is scheduled to open on 30 March, even though it doesn't look like they could possibly finish it. The crews are working around the clock, so it just might happen.

At Big C, we started with lunch and then went upstairs to shop for the weekend and the party on Sunday. We're expecting about a dozen friends over for food and drinks. If it stays this hot they'll either jump in the pool or stay in the house. (Ha)

For your information, the tsunami will not be coming to Thailand. If you have family or friends in Japan, I hope they're OK. We're watching the reports to see if Hawaii and the west coast are affected. If they tell you to move inland, move inland, or higher.

Have a Wonderful Weekend and enjoy the 'Funnies', a few random one-liners.

Peace,
Danny

Last night I lay in bed looking up at the stars in the sky and I thought to myself, where the heck is the ceiling.

An escalator never breaks . . . it only becomes stairs

People never grow up; they just learn how to act in public

I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Mistake

Hi,

We had a very productive day here in Chiang Rai. Everyone was talking about the heat, but we just kept going. I saw some of the countryside east of town, we lunched in the city, did some banking, hung out at Bliss, and brought home a few pieces from the art exhibit. We also took a dip in the pool.

It turns out that there were too many blanks in the lyrics yesterday. I added four that shouldn't have been there. Doesn't make much difference really. Anyway, here's more of this song that was a major smash all over the world for some strange reason. "For those who come to __ __, summertime will be a love-in there. In the streets of __ __, gentle people with flowers in their hair..." Hint: There's the name of a city in there, and now it should be obvious.

This morning Lisa had a hair appointment and after I dropped her off, I drove into the area east of Chiang Rai to visit some new friends at a place called 'New Life Recovery Center'. It took 30 minutes of driving through farmland, villages, and rolling hills. I passed a sign that pointed to a place called 'Happy City'. I'll have to find out more about that. I was told that after I passed a big lake, I would see a turn-off. The lake was huge, and one of those things we'd never heard about. When I got to the center I was quite surprised to see beautiful new buildings in a 'modern Thai' motif. It looked like a resort. I spent an hour talking with one of the men who runs the place. I'll have more on this in the future.

After returning to town Lisa and I went home, picked up Blue and we went to lunch at Connect Cafe. The food was pretty good and we got to see one of the twins. From there we went to the bank, and then over to Bliss photo studio. Blue and Chalit really hit it off, talking cameras and photo processes. Chalit has started a book drive, collecting various books for the children at the Sold Project Resource Center.

When we arrived at 9 Art Gallery we expected all of Lisa's prints to be gone. The show is over and the framer was going to pick them up for some retrofitting. Everything was still on the wall so we just took the things that weren't for sale, like her fathers piece's. We'll be going to the opening of a new exhibit there on Saturday night.

Back at the house the temperature in the pool was 83 degrees so we decided we should go in. It still felt chilly getting in, but after a few minutes it felt great. We swam a bit and then talked a bunch about the various projects that are coming up. Chiang Rai will be celebrating it's 750th birthday all next year. There will be lots of exhibits, events, and opportunities to be involved. It's been an exciting day to say the least.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

Peace,
Danny

"Allowing an unimportant mistake to pass
without comment is a wonderful social grace."
~Judith Martin

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
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Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Understand

Hi,

We had a tiny bit of relief from the heat today. The humidity was up and there's a forecast for rain. We'll see if that happens. A couple of favorite spots were visited, a few errands run, and life is good in Chiang Rai.

The 'Easy Monday' song was "Wichita Lineman" as sung by Glen Campbell, and written by Jimmy Webb. I couldn't 'trip' back to the 'Summer of Love' without offering this signature song written to honor the Monterey Pop Festival:
"__ __ __ __ __ __, (__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __). __ __ __ __ __ __ __, you're gonna meet some gentle people there." Clue: I know it looks crazy, but it's one of the longest titles in history, I think. Had to use the blanks or you would figure it out too quickly. (Ha) So easy.

This morning Lisa and I went out and did 'leaf detail', raking up the giant leaves from across the road. The trees are looking pretty bare so it won't be long before this part of the season is over. The dogs are starting to lose interest, most of the time.

Late morning found us sipping coffee at Doi Chaang. Then we walked down to the pharmacy warehouse, and stopped at the watch guy's. We also went to the DTAC shop, which is one of the major phone carriers here. Our 'Guest phone' needed a new SIM card. There were a few moments of laughter trying to get them to give us what we needed, and also cancel the promo calls Lisa gets from them on her phone. We had lunch at Work At Home Bakery, one of Blue's favorite places. It was nice to sit in their air-conditioned meeting room. We had the place to ourselves and it was very relaxing.

By the time we got back to the house it was time for a little rest period. Jaffee came over later with the contract for the Bangkok art exhibit in November and Lisa signed it. They discussed some of the logistics that will be involved with putting on the show. So much is going on now, we may need a large wall calendar to keep up with ourselves.

When the temperatures go up, the activity at the river does the same. This afternoon there were a bunch of kids playing in the water near the bridge to our house. Lots of cars and trucks on the shore as families looked for a way to beat the heat. Tonight there will probably be bon fires and music.

This evening Boot made a wonderful dinner. After we'd finished, Lisa programed the 'Guest phone' so Blue can use speed dial to reach us and his son Ming, who is getting ready for finals at Stanford.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"You don't really understand something unless you can explain it to your grandmother."
~Albert Einstein

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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Drawn

Hi,

Blue arrived last night, with tales of the Java Jazz Festival, the dogs remembered an old friend, and today we covered a few essential Chiang Rai bases.

Quite a few of you knew the 'Easy' song on the first day. Some of you had funny answers too. This should do it:
"I am a lineman for the county, and I drive the main road. Searchin' in the sun for another overload. I hear you singin' in the wire. I can hear you through the whine, and the __ __ is still on the line." Clue: Electric wire guy is a civil servant.

Last night I got to the airport a few minutes before I thought Blue's plane was to land. People started coming out of the baggage area, but I didn't see Blue. Finally, I realized that the flight I was watching might not have been his. We get so few planes here that one can assume the wrong thing sometimes. The Air Asia flight was due at 9:15 instead of 9. It actually arrived closer to 9:30 and Blue's bag came off first, which hardly ever happens.

We sat around until late last night hearing stories about the festival, the players, and the reasons he was tired. They worked him hard, but the music was good. This year Blue worked with George Benson, George Duke, and Four Play, to name a few. Some of the shows were going on at the same time in different venues, which makes it hard to keep things straight. It's always fun to hear the behind the scenes stories.

Daku was the first dog to see Blue and he remembered him right away. A little later BamBam came out from Boot's house and actually opened the sliding screen door to the guest room with her nose. She was so happy to see Blue that she almost wiggled herself into a circle.

Today began with a massage, followed by lunch, a trip to the post office, and finally the gallery. Khun Nine told Lisa about a special gathering of artists that's taking place later this month at the Rimkok Hotel down the road from us. There will be over 100 artists present, working on pieces to be donated to the new government building. Nine made a few calls and Lisa will be participating. It should be quite an experience.

This evening we went to the Night Bazaar for dinner and looked around a little. Our friend at Sawasdee remembered Blue from the last time he ate there. We stopped and talked to Paradorn, a watercolor artist and his wife. He keeps evolving and using new techniques.

Tomorrow is the last day of Lisa's exhibit, so if you haven't been to see it, you'd better hurry on down. (555) If you live in Chiang Rai that's not a joke.

I got an email from the American Consul Service telling me that my new passport is ready to be picked up. That's at least a week earlier than expected. Now I have to pick a Tuesday or Thursday to go back to Chiang Mai.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"Let yourself be silently drawn
by the strange pull of what you really love.
It will not lead you astray."
~Rumi

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Monday, March 7, 2011

Grow

Hi,

We had a fairly mellow weekend here in Chiang Rai. Saturday was a 'rest day', and Sunday we did something special, washed the dogs, and had dinner with friends.

The 'Old School Friday' song was "Bye Bye, Love" by The Everly Brothers. 'Easy Monday' is so easy I started with the second verse. The first verse would just give it away. It's about a man, his job, and his lost love.
"I know I need a small vacation, but it don't look like rain. And if it snows that stretch down south won't stand the strain. And I need you more than want you, and I want you for all time. And the __ __ is still on the line." Hint: This early hit, about a man who climbs poles, really helped this country artist with a very long career. Extra points if you know who wrote it.

The work we put in last week for the reception caught up with us on Saturday. We got up and cleared the big leaves from the front yard and then just did nothing for the rest of the day. We looked at pictures of the event, talked about the various conversations, and napped. I forgot to mention that my friend Mark and his girlfriend drove up from Chiang Mai for the evening. That was a welcome surprise. We also made contact with a woman named Bron who used to have a gallery in Australia. We're going to have coffee with her next week. Our little world just keeps getting bigger and it's wonderful.

Sunday was another hot day so we decided it was time to wash the dogs. Daku always gets his bath first since he's a handful. He doesn't like water unless he's in control of the situation. This time he was more cooperative than in the past. BamBam is used to getting baths because Boot gave her one every day when she was a puppy. She just didn't know. Now BamBam just stands perfectly still and lets it happen. Both of them get crazy after their baths. They do what I call 'lawn diving'. They run around with their noses to the ground and then lower one shoulder and just crash into the ground and roll around on their backs. Then we call them to the towels and they roll around on them and let us rub them down. It's quite a show.

In the afternoon we felt the pool and it seemed very inviting. The thermometer read 82 degrees so we suited up. It was fine up to the knees and then it felt cold. We just took a deep breath and walked in and started swimming. After a few moments it felt good. At last, we're swimming again. We went in again today but it was a little bit colder. No matter, we swam around and then sat in the sun.

Sunday evening Rachel and Kevin came over and we took them to Sawasdee Restaurant in the Night Bazaar. They've been here for a year and hadn't been there, so it was a treat for them. After dinner they showed us a stall that's run by Akha teenagers who live in the city. They're learning about dealing with the rest of the world. We had actually shopped at the stall in the past. Now we know one of the girls and it has new meaning.

Today we fixed up the guest room in preparation for our friend Blue's arrival tonight. He'll be here until the 16th, for his 'annual' visit. He just finished working at the Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta where he was tour manager for all of the jazz acts from the U.S.A. This is his 'cool down' time. We're excited that he's going to be here with us.

Have a Great Week.

Peace,
Danny

"To grow, you must be willing to let your present and future,
be totally unlike your past.
Your history is not your destiny."
~Alan Cohen

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
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www.lisamosesgallery.com

Friday, March 4, 2011

Friday Funnies

Hi,

We just returned from the 'Encore Reception' for Lisa's art exhibit. There was a wonderful turnout and we met lots of new people. The day was all about preparation and it paid off.

Our 'Summer of Love' song was "Respect" by Aretha Franklin. Of course, you knew that. 'Old School Friday' is next and this one should be easy. "__ __ __. Bye bye, happiness. Hello loneliness. I think I'm a-gonna cry-y." Hint:
I think those lyrics pretty much give away this song by two brothers who had many hits in the late 50s.

This morning while Lisa was at the hair salon I ran a few errands. As I approached the salon to pick her up I heard a voice next door. It was a shop owner singing 'Desperado' with a Karaoke machine. Imagine my surprise. Then it stuck in my head for about an hour. I guess he was practicing for an evening performance.

We made a stop at the plastic store for plates and cups, went by the gallery, and got all the way into the carport at home and remembered more things we needed. As we crossed the bridge back into town it was determined that we might as well go to Big C since everything was there, and it would be 11am by the time we got there. The time is significant because we had to buy beer for the party and it isn't sold until then.

After lunch and a brief snooze Lisa jumped into action. She made deviled eggs, sautéed chicken sausage, and cut up fruit. I helped a bit by mashing eggs (what a chef). We ended up with a nice variety of things for our guests to have with their drinks. Then it was time to prepare ourselves, feed the dogs, and leave.

The folks at 9 Art Gallery were very helpful in setting things up. Everything was ready by the time the first guests arrived. Before we knew it the place was buzzing like it was opening night. Most of our friends that we invited showed up. Jaffee invited several of his hotel friends and people from the tourism trade and they also came. He had sent a letter to the Governor's office and they sent the Deputy Governor. There was also a camera crew from 'Chiang Rai Today' a local website we think is connected to the Provincial offices. They interviewed Lisa and Jaffee, and it should be up in a few days. I'll let you know.

It was an impressive guest list that made for some very involved conversations. There were general managers of the Dusit Island Resort, The Legend, and Bann Thai Resort. The head of one of three tourism groups was in deep discussion with the hotel people and the Deputy Governor wanted to know all about Lisa's work, and he also thanked her on behalf of the people of Chiang Rai. Our friends from The Sold Project, Rachel and Kevin connected with lots of people, and Chalit and Atom who both helped with the translations, finally met each other and spent a long time chatting. It was so cool to watch all the connections, and discoveries going on around the room. It was a good evening for everyone.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Now it's time for the 'Funnies'.

Peace,
Danny

There was a blonde who found herself sitting next to a lawyer on an
airplane. The lawyer kept bugging the blonde, wanting her to play
a game of intelligence. Finally, the lawyer offered her 10 to 1 odds,
and said every time she could not answer one of his questions,
she owed him $5, but every time he could not answer hers, he'd give
her $50.00. The lawyer figured he could not lose, and the blonde
reluctantly accepted.

The lawyer first asked, "What is the distance between the Earth and
the nearest star?"

Without saying a word the blonde handed him $5. then she asked,
"What goes up a hill with 3 legs and comes back down the hill with 4 legs?"

Well, the lawyer looked puzzled. He took several hours, looking up
everything he could on his laptop and even placing numerous
air-to-ground phone calls trying to find the answer. Finally, angry
and frustrated, he gave up and paid the blonde $50.00

The blonde put the $50 into her purse without comment, but the lawyer
insisted, "What is the answer to your question?"

Without saying a word, the blonde handed him $5.

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Thursday, March 3, 2011

Boomerang

Hi,

We're back in Chiang Rai, very tired, but home. It was a busy day with a few surprises. After a couple of trips to the Consulate, we got our business taken care of, and also managed to accomplish a few more things.

Lots of mail on this 'Summer of Love' hit by the Queen of Soul. Oh, did I just give something away? Try these lyrics if you're still in doubt: "Ooo, your kisses, sweeter than honey. And guess what? So is my money. All I want you to do for me is give it to me when you get home, yeah baby. __, just a little bit..." Hint: It's had many covers, but her version was probably the monster hit that made the song iconic.

Chiang Mai is hotter than Chiang Rai. We had fairly early appointments at the U.S. Consulate office and didn't have to wait at all. The guards at the entrance are all Thai nationals now and there is less of the 'military' feeling when entering. In fact they were cheery and showed a sense of humor. You have to leave most of your belongings at the entrance, after a careful inspection. They wouldn't let Lisa take her comb in and laughed with her when she grabbed it and did a quick comb through of her hair. Inside we were told that they were short staffed and it might take an hour to add pages to Lisa passport. We told them we were pretty busy and they did it in five minutes. We have to return to Chiang Mai in a few weeks to pick up my new passport.

I called Mark, a friend of mine who lives in Chiang Mai to ask him about a used book store and he gave us directions. We got a Tuk-Tuk to the place and when we arrived Mark rode up on his bicycle. He and Lisa were talking about the book store when I got a call from the Consulate telling me that my picture was not usable. Mark knew of a photo shop that made passport pics so we walked (a long way) while Lisa bought books, and I got new pictures taken.

Since I had to return to the photo place later, we decided to get lunch. Mark gave a Tuk-Tuk driver the directions to a little place he likes and we met there and had a really nice lunch. Another friend, Robert, showed up just as we were finishing. It was one of those days. After lunch we got the pictures, and then went back to the Consulate to drop them off. Whew.

After checking out of the hotel, we drove to Rimping Market where they sell lots of Western food. They have things we just can't find in Chiang Rai, like sweet pickle relish. We also found these giant marshmallows and I couldn't resist. After coffee we hit the road for home. On our way to the highway, sitting in traffic, we saw a little grocery store with a 'bar' set up right by the sidewalk. Just a narrow box about 4 feet long with holes on top with liquor bottles in the holes. I guess people stroll by, have a shot and continue on their way. Hmm. What?

Yesterday, when I called Mark to tell him I was in town, he told me he had an art exhibit at a shop in the garment district. We had planned to walk over there anyway so it became an adventure. We went up and down many streets before we found the shop and it turned out we'd been there before. Upstairs they have a gallery and we got to see Mark's work. He's donating one third of the proceeds to an organization that helps Burmese refugee children.

It's so nice to be home, with steady internet, the dogs, and Boot. Tomorrow we have to do the final prep for the party in the evening. More about that tomorrow.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

Peace,
Danny

"The game of life is a game of boomerangs.
Our thoughts, deeds, and words
return to us sooner or later,
with astounding accuracy."
~Florence Scovel Shinn

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

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Direction

Hi,

We've had a busy day traveling and moving around in Chiang Mai. The landscape through the valleys and mountains was pretty spectacular, even if some things are dry. The rice fields gave us carpets of green, there were flowering trees of yellow in some areas and white in others. The bougainvillea offered an assortment of colors that were brilliant.

The 'Easy Monday' song was "Ticket to Ride" by The Beatles. It's time for another visit to the 'Summer of Love' to see what was happening in '67. "What you want, baby, I got it. What you need, do you know I got it? All I'm askin' is for a little __, when you come home...." Hint: It's something everybody wants, and deserves. At one point in the song it's even spelled out for you. Hmm.

Leaving Chiang Rai in the midst of morning traffic was just a slight challenge. Once we got out of town the highway moved remarkably well. We left our maps at home, but remembered the way to our hotel so things worked out fine. When we went to check-in, our room wasn't ready so we went to an old favorite on the main street and had lunch. The owner remembered us and we had a nice reunion. He gave us a map when we asked where we could buy one.

With a little time to kill we decided to go to Pantip Plaza, the everything 'tech store' in Thailand. The place was only half occupied and it seemed odd that it would be so empty during High Season. We picked up a little speaker system that can play music from a USB memory stick, or from the computer. It's pretty cool. Not much else interested us so we went back to the hotel and checked in.

Our next adventure was Central/Airport, the giant mall. We had a few items we were looking for but didn't find a thing. We had dinner there and that was a bit disappointing as well. I guess it wasn't a shopping trip after all. (Ha)

This evening we went to the Night Bazaar and things picked up. The place was very busy with visitors from all over the world. So many languages going at the same time. Having stores that we remembered was good since we could just pass by most of the booths and look for what we wanted. We ended up having another 'dinner' at a new cafe right in the middle of the busy street. Not a bad spot for a late snack.

Now I have to go downstairs and try and send this since the 'wireless' is mostly 'less' in the room.

It really is Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"Seek direction from one who's already there."
~ Zulu Saying

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

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Happy

Hi,

Today was another hot one. We did our weekly shopping, and continued with preparations for the party on Friday. There is big news on this side of the world. Read on and find out.

The 'Easy Monday' song was easy for a bunch of you. If you still don't remember, here's the bridge. Sing it:
"I don't know why she's riding so high, she ought to think twice, she ought to do right by me. Before she gets to saying goodbye, she ought to think twice, she ought to do right by me.... She's got a __ __ __ but she don't care."
Clue: It's a about something you might hand a conductor on a train, or a bus driver. No, it's not money.

Boot had to go to Ban Du again today so we had lunch at Big C and did our shopping. Not only did we have our regular items, but we had a list of things for the gallery party on Friday. It's going to be an intimate gathering and should be fun.

This afternoon we got a call from Jaffee with the news that "The Neilson-Hays Library, Art Galleries" would be happy to present Lisa in a solo show in November. The Curator said that Lisa's work was stunning and she is looking forward to having the show. We're going to the big city, takin' it on the road. The gallery is well established in Bangkok and attracts a large expat audience. They are also interested in having Lisa make a presentation on the cast acrylic print process. The show will open on November 5 and be up for one month. As the time draws closer I'll have more news and information on this exciting development.

This evening we went downtown to Aye's restaurant for dinner. As we were finishing, Aye, the owner came to our table and we had a long conversation about the show at 9 Art Gallery, the party, and things going on with her business.

Now it's time to pack the bag for our overnight trip to Chiang Mai.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"The happiest of people don't necessarily have the
best of everything, they just make the most of
everything that comes along their way."
~Unknown

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