Toast

Hi,

The word on the street was ‘What happened to that rain they promised?’  Well, nobody really promised us rain, so there you go.  Maybe next week will bring rain. 

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Piece of My Heart” by Janis Joplin (and Big Brother and The Holding Company).  This week’s ‘Zany Day’ song is a lot of fun.  “Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a __ __?  My friends all drive Porsches, I must make amends.  Worked hard all my lifetime, no help from my friends, so Lord won’t you buy me a __ __?”  Hint:  The title is a two-word car name.  So easy.

We had an early coffee call with our friend Rachel, who is in town for meetings at The Freedom Story.  She is one of the co-founders of the project.  The Wanderer was quiet, which is always nice.  There’s something about the woods in the morning stillness.  It was great to hear that the project is growing and will open a location in Nan Province.  We had a visit from Mercy that was short but fun.  JaiDee was going to follow her on a little romp in the woods, but Lisa called him back and he responded, which was a first.  It’s nice to know that he won’t just run off in the excitement of the moment. 

This afternoon we drove north to Mae Chan.  It was a follow-up on a doctor visit.  The little powerhouse known as JaiDee has a way of changing direction sometimes and it can strain the human body.  Lisa managed to get some relief from the treatment and things are back to ’Get down, No’ (555). 

Tonight, while we were on our evening walk, we heard music.  I couldn’t figure out where it was coming from and it was frustrating.  We could see colored lights in the direction of the sound, but couldn’t tell location because roads curve and blah, blah.  I need an event calendar that is complete and in English, with simple maps.  Yeah, that’s what I need.

Speaking of maps, we got invited to the home and studio of one of the senior artists.  She has an artist collective and they will be making merit and hosting some monks, then there will be a big lunch. This is a new kind of event and should be interesting and fun.  She is a former teacher with a great sense of daring in her art, and a wonderful sense of humor.  

Today’s photo was taken before JaiDee's latest growth spurt, which is every day.  Mercy is not sure about this bundle of energy.

It feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

“I went to a restaurant that serves

‘Breakfast at any time’, so I ordered

French Toast during the Renaissance.”

~Steven Wright

Desire

Hi,

That rain I told you they had forecasted, well, it never really came.  There were times when it looked promising, but it was just another dry day in Chiang Rai.  Rivers are low and there is talk of possible water rationing.  We certainly hope not, but if that is what it takes, we’ll cut back.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was quickly identified by some of the regular song players.  Here’s the second verse:

“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, never, never, never, never, never hear me when I cry at night, baby, I cry all the time.  But each time I tell myself that I, well I can’t stand the pain.  But when you hold me in your arms I’ll sing it once again.  I say come on, come on, come on, come on take it.  Take another little __ __ __ __…. You know you got it, child, if it makes you feel good.”  Clue:  She is offering a portion of something.

This morning we decided to go to Browney Pet World for a better harness and more food for our growing boy.  In order to do this, we all needed a ‘social fix’ so we went to Chivit Thamma Da for coffee, scones and ice.  JaiDee got to see Nam Kok, the Golden who is basically the house dog.  After an elongated greeting, JaiDee assumed the ‘Play Pose’ that seems to be instinctual.  The dog crouches down on the front legs and bobs around, occasionally barking, trying to start a game.  JaiDee did this from several angles but Nam Kok wasn’t having it.  He finally dismissed the young dog and marched upstairs.  There were plenty of human distractions for JaiDee so it didn’t really bother him.

The memories of the first visit to the pet store must have rushed to the front of JaiDee’s mind.  Right away, he was in doggie bliss, smelling the big bags of food, searching for stray kibble, etc.  He made several new friends while we shopped.  One man knelt down and gave him a good petting while asking all the usual questions.  It was another good outing.  

We are entering what one might call the ‘Party Season’.  Starting with the 8th of November and the Riverside Jazz Festival at Chivit, then there is the lantern festival of Loy Krathong, and later, a Thanksgiving dinner, complete with turkey at The Hungry Wolf, and right before we leave for the States, there is a special birthday party we always attend for our friend Nukoon.  Those are just the things we know so far.  It will be a season of reconnecting with friends and experimenting with food.  

Today’s photo was taken at Phayao Lake.  We went there with our Thai teacher a few years ago.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

“Desire is the starting point of 

all achievement, not a hope, not a 

wish, but a keen pulsating desire which

transcends everything.”

~Napoleon Hill

Value

Hi,

More rain is predicted by morning.  We had a hot weekend, so now we’re getting the cooling trend with rain.  The coming week is supposed to be in the 80’s.  Hmm.

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Respect” by Otis Redding.  The ‘Easy Monday song is from 1968.  “Didn’t I make you feel like you were the only man?  An’ 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 take it, take another little __ __ __ __ now baby.  Oh, no, break it, break another little __ __ __ __ now darling….”  Hint:  Sung by a unique singer with a raspy voice who loved the blues. 

This weekend we made the rounds, getting coffee with the puppy.  His fan base is growing with each visit.  Sunday morning we went to The Wanderer early.  As we pulled into the parking area, one of the gardeners moved his cart so we could park.  I noticed Mercy hanging out under a tree.  She saw JaiDee, with his face sticking out of the window, and jumped up to greet him.  It was a classic photo-op with no camera ready.  They touched noses and communicated something.  After we parked, Mercy led us down the path, but paused at the gate to her house.  We’re guessing she wanted to show JaiDee where she lived.  She also may have wanted him to meet Joey, who is house-bound with a broken leg.  At any rate, she’s quite the host.

At the conclusion of a tennis tournament in Switzerland, awards were given to the ball kids.  They showed a close up of them and JaiDee jumped up and ran to the TV set.  There’s something about really seeing a face on the screen that interests him.

This morning we left JaiDee at home with Natcha and tackled Big C and Central Plaza.  It was all quite routine until we went into the lower-level of the mall and discovered the little animal expo.  There was a pen with goats dressed up in coats and dresses, a table full on mice playing on wheels, and of course, lots of puppies.  Some of them were so tiny, they looked like toys.  Small dogs have become very popular with people living in apartments.  

This afternoon little man got a shower.  He absolutely hates being bathed.  Afterwards I took him for a walk outside and then Lisa and I went for a swim.  He was very unhappy in his crate this time, even though he was close to the pool.  He was rescued by Natcha and Nitchanan.  This was Nitchanan’s first day back at school after a very long break.  JaiDee was more than happy to go into the house with them.  Earlier, when we returned from shopping, he jumped up and pulled half a cooked chicken off the sink.  Lisa and Natcha both reacted, Natcha was afraid he might bite, but he just kept his ‘power jaws’ clamped on his prize.  Eventually, Lisa got him to let it go, but the damage was done.  That was supposed to be dinner.  He was not allowed in the kitchen until later in the day.  

 

On our evening walk, we realized that there are regular walkers we see every night.  Some are very stoic in their endeavor, while others always have a smile and sometimes a verbal greeting.  There is an older couple who have warmed up a bit, and a woman with an old beagle who has no boundaries.  Every time we see the beagle, we moan.  The dog wants to greet JaiDee, and she just stands there, with a big smile on her face while the leashes get tangled.  The two young women who jog by always greet us in Thai, in unison.  Life on the trail.

Have a Great Week.

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

“Strive not to be a success,

but rather to be of value.”

~Albert Einstein

Friday Funnies

Hi,

Today was another beautiful, boring weather day.  The sky was partly cloudy, and the air was very hot.  It’s almost 9pm and it’s still 79°F.  The weekend will be more of the same.  

The ‘Middle Song’ this week was “Try A Little Tenderness” by Otis Redding.  ‘Old School Friday’ is from ’65.

“What you want, honey you got it.  And what  you need, baby you got it.  All I’m askin’ is for a little __ when I come home.  Hey now, hey hey hey yeah now.  Do me wrong honey, if you wanna.  You can do me wrong, honey while I’m gone.  But all I’m askin’ is for a little __ when I come home….”  Hint:  It is said that the title is something one must earn.  Hmm.

We are currently alternating between our two favorite coffee spots, mainly because JaiDee is so welcome.  That meant that today we were at Chivit Thamma Da.  Our visits have been so consistent that we no longer have to go through long descriptions of what we need for JaiDee when it comes to water and ice.  It’s like ‘water, no ice’ and 'a small glass of ice on the side’.  I was going to say ‘shaken, not stirred’ but that would be overkill (555).  Dog has his fans who always come by and greet him and stroke his head and ears.  What a life.

There was another long car ride after coffee again today.  After years of living here, we finally found the dry cleaning shop.  Lisa remembered that she had a garment ready, so off we went.  JaiDee’s getting to see the city from several vantage points and that’s good, ‘cause one of these days he’ll have to drive us around.  We drove past the “Old Airport” to see what the walking might look like, since it’s a place many people go for evening exercise.  There was an entrance gate, but it was closed.  Besides, the sun was beating down on the asphalt and that’s not a place to take a dog.  

This afternoon Khun Jin came over to give Lisa a massage.  Natcha babysat JaiDee, with help from Nitchanan and her nephew Gop, who is 10.  They all went out on the patio to bounce on the trampoline and little dog boy had to play.  He’s still a little unclear on the concept, but seemed to enjoy lying there, being bounced when they landed.  Eventually, he made up his own game.  In today’s photos you can see JaiDee and Gop wrestling, and then JaiDee watching him walk away.  I wonder what puppy is thinking.  “I won”.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.    It’s time for the ‘Funnies’.  Don’t forget, Formula 1 is in Mexico this weekend.  Zoom!

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

Warlike

Hi,

It was carbon-copy weather day.  Basically, getting the same sky and temps as the day before.  The overnight air is very moist, but no rain.

The ‘Middle Song’ is probably looping in a few minds today.  It’s starts as a somber ballad and ends with a bang.

“You know she’s waiting, just anticipating for things that she’ll never, never, never, never possess, yeah, yeah.  But while she’s there waiting, without them, __ __ __ __ (that’s all you gotta do).  It’s not just sentimental, no, no, no, she has her grief and care, yeah, yeah, yeah.  But the soft words, they are spoke so gentle, yeah.  It makes it easier, easier to bear, yeah…”  Clue:  The title offers a solution to soothe a harsh life.

This morning the little baby animal had a meltdown of his own and became a terrorist.  His biting, jumping and not responding made for a frustrating beginning to the day.  He finally crashed and woke up better.  We went to The Wanderer for coffee and roti and JaiDee went to visit.  There are staff members who are giving him attention every spare moment they get.  Kwan, her sister Kern, and their brother Khun all gathered around and took photos with him and hung out as members of his fan club.  A little later Mercy came out of the woods with a big greeting.  Lisa let JaiDee off his leash and the two dogs bounced and played for a few minutes.  It’s great for JaiDee because his only experience with playing was with his litter-mates.  It seems like Mercy is gently teaching him what is OK and what is not.  

After coffee we took one of our coolers to Sinthanee to see if they could repair it.  We took puppy with us and it was one of his longest rides since he came to Chiang Rai.  He loves to cruise.  As a result of his busy morning, he slept almost all afternoon.  What that means is, he will be taller tomorrow (555).

We are watching a lot more sports than in the past.  Whenever there is a need for a puppy time-out, it means sitting on the floor with him on the lap, holding him until he calms down.  Sometimes he watches and it distracts him, and it also helps the human.  There has been a lot of snooker, tennis, badminton, 9 ball, and American football (not to be confused with the football played in the rest of the world).  The rules to a few of these games still puzzle us, but we’re consulting with Mr. Google (555).

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

“There are no warlike people,

just warlike leaders.”

~Dr. Ralph J. Bunche

Number

Hi,

Last night the rain came.  It was a big storm, with thunder, lightning and lots of water from the sky.  There was a little left when I took JaiDee out this morning and he didn’t like it.  He did, however, like the idea of jumping up to grab the umbrella.

This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song was "(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding.  A lot of you knew that, which means you probably know this ‘Middle Song’ by him.  “Oh, she may be weary.  Them young girls they do get wearied, wearing that same old shaggy dress, yeah, yeah.  But when she gets weary __ __ __ __, yeah, yeah.”  Hint:  It was recorded in 1966, but was actually written and recorded back in 1932.  Redding’s version is in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Today’s adventure took us to Chivit Thamma Da and coffee with our friend John.  John met JaiDee when he was a tinier pup, and they had a great reunion.  We started off at a table with metal legs, something that was puppy-proof.  It turned out he was just as happy eating the grass between the paving stones.  After relocating to a porch table, he settled down and tried to eat the floor (555).  Next month, Chivit is having a Jazz Weekend, featuring groups from Chiang Mai.  It will be two evenings of free music.  We made reservations for a space on the lawn by the river.  They will provide beanbags and mats, we’re going to bring our little camping chairs.  John has an app on his phone that tells what time the sun will rise and set, based on your location.  On Oct. 8, it will set at 5:56, meaning we’ll listen to the music as the sun sets.  How cool.

After our coffee date we drove across town to the vets for more special food for JaiDee.  It wasn’t really an appointment, just more food for his tummy.  Apparently, young dogs sometimes have a reaction to the puppy shots.  He’s doing fine now, and Saturday we’ll start moving him back to his ‘normal diet’.  We met a man who knew us through his wife’s Facebook page and some mutual friends.  A few weeks ago, Lisa mentioned how in Chiang Rai there are only 3 degrees of separation.  It seems to be so.

Kids and animals have an interesting fascination with the simplest items as toys.  The cardboard box is a perfect example.  Here are two photos of kids in our house that prove the point.  Nitchanan was a bit younger than she is now, but you get the idea.

Yeah, it’s definitely a Wacky Wednesday.

                         Peace,

                                   Danny

"If it’s the Psychic Network

why do they need a phone number?”

~Robin Williams

Silence

Hi,

The Chiang Rai weather continues to be hot by day and cool by night.  When I say hot, I mean low 90’s and cool is in the mid to low 70’s.  

A few of you knew the ‘Easy Monday’ song.  I think this next verse has all the hints you’ll need.  “I left my home in Georgia, headed for the Frisco Bay.  Cuz I’ve had nothing to live for, and look like nothing’s gonna come my way.  So, I’m just gon’ (__ __) __ __ __ __ __, watchin’ the tide roll away, ooh, I’m (__ __)__ __ __ __ __, wastin’ time.  Clue:  The artist had just appeared at the Monterey Pop Festival, and was relaxing on the other side of the bay.  Unfortunately, he never enjoyed the results of this wonderfully sad song.  

Just when we think JaiDee is getting into a regular sleeping pattern, he wakes up in the middle of the night and decides to stay awake.  Last night he woke up at 1 something, and then again a little after 4am.  Lisa tried to get him to go back to sleep after that, but no dice.  We got up near 5am and started our morning.  After we’d all had our breakfasts, it was back to bed for a few hours.  Some dogs sleep deeply when they nap.  JaiDee is a light sleeper, hearing everything that’s going on around him.  We just returned from our evening walk and I think it will keep him in dreamland for a few hours (555).

This morning we talked to Joe, Lisa’s dad, and we learned about an art exhibit at Stanford University that we will attend during our Winter Visit.  

Today we lunched at The Wanderer.  It was a perfect day for sitting outside and enjoying the fresh air.  JaiDee always likes it there because he meets so many people.  He always sits tall, with his head up, waiting for whatever affection is coming.  We met a woman who loves Goldens and Labs and hung out, talking with us about dogs and especially puppies.  Mercy came bounding over and she and JaiDee had a brief greeting, and then she was called away.

After lunch is one of those times when the puppy needs a nap.  In this photo, he appears to be sleeping, but he knows all that goes on around him.  

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                  Peace,

                            Danny

“Silence is one of the great

arts of conversation.”

~Marcus Tullius Cicero

Confidence

Hi,

The weather was cool at night and hot during the day.  No sign of any more rain, so watering will have to begin.

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Candle In The Wind” by Elton John.  This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ should be familiar to many:  “Sittin’ in the mornin’ sun, I’ll be sittin’ when the evening comes.  Watchin' the ships roll in, then I watch them roll away again, yeah.  I’m (__ __) __ __ __ __ __, watchin’ the tide roll away, ooh.  I’m just (__ __) __ __ __ __ __ wastin’ time.”  Hint:  This 1968 release was actually written while the writer was doing just what the song says.  

Saturday morning we took our little roadshow to Chivit for mid-morning coffee.   JaiDee was his usual friendly self and things went smoothly.  The one little problem we have with our outings is the tasty wicker chairs that seem to be so popular.  Once the puppy settles down under a chair, we think everything’s all mellow, until we look down and realize he’s hard at work, silently unraveling part of a chair leg.  He’s been on a special diet for the past week, and has one week to go.  We haven’t been able to give him treats in times like these.  Not that it always makes a difference (555).  It comes with the puppy territory.

Sunday morning I was doing a calming session and Lisa took this photo.  He likes one of us to hold his wooden bone while he chews on it.  

We did a different thing on Sunday.  We ate lunch at home and went out for coffee in the afternoon.  The Wanderer was pretty busy, but we got our favorite outside table.  Lisa took him for a walk and of course, he made a new friend.  A couple sitting across the walk from us wanted to talk to him as we were leaving.  The man called him by his name, having heard us speak to him.  He had lots of questions and JaiDee enjoyed the petting.

Cat came over in the afternoon and we hung out until dinner time.  The three of us went to The Hungry Wolf for dinner, since it’s close to the house.  I ordered a burger based on the small number of things they’d have to leave out, like cheese, mayo, etc.  It turns out it was a ‘Junior Burger’. When it came to the table I noticed something on the bun.  It was a paw print, presumably of a wolf’s paw.  The burger was good, and now I can say I’ve had a kid’s burger in Thailand.  Cat and Lisa had grown-up meals and we had adult conversation.  

When we returned to the house, it was time to take JaiDee on his walk.  Cat went with us and it made the trip around the track seem quicker.  Once JaiDee was settled from his exercise, we talked for a long time.  Cat told us more about her childhood in the village that we didn’t know, and it gave us more awareness of what a strong person she has become.  

The big event today was the puppy getting a shower.  He does not like these events at all, but he smells so much better afterward.  We put him in his crate by the side of the pool while we swam.  He got fresh air and we got our own form of exercise.  He didn’t like it and he fussed a bit, but finally surrendered and played with his toys.

Have a Great Week.

                            Peace,

                                      Danny

“You must have confidence

in your competence.”

~Elijah Cummings

Friday Funnies

Hi,

This morning we had a weather encore: a morning storm that had a serious downpour.  The backyard was a lake and there was water all around the house.  After 30 minutes of hard rain and 30 minutes of showers, it was over.  The rest of the day was clear and warm.

The ‘Zany Day’ song was “Honky Cat” by Elton John.  ‘Old School Friday’ isn’t his oldest hit, but memorable:

“Goodbye, Norma Jean, though I never knew you at all.  You had the grace to hold yourself while those around you crawled.  They crawled out of the woodwork and they whispered into your brain.  They set you on the treadmill and they made you change your name.  And it seems to me you lived your life like a __ __ __ __.  Never knowing who to cling to when the rain set in…”  Hint:  About a fragile flame.

This photo shows JaiDee viewing the aftermath of the storm, wondering what is happening.

We got a message from Kwan at The Wanderer telling us that 'wooden' bones for JaiDee had arrived.  That meant our morning destination had been decided.  Off we went, and after we were settled at our table, Mercy came bounding in to give Jai Dee a big greeting.  He jumped up and they started communicating.  Mercy wanted to play and so did JaiDee.  With his leash undone, JaiDee was free to move around with Mercy.  She kept going toward the door and looking back to see if JaiDee was following, but we held him back.  He’s not old enough to run through the woods with an older woman (555).  When JaiDee got his bone he went right to work.  It’s just what he’s needed for that puppy teething thing he’s going through.  

This afternoon we went to immigration for our 90 day check-in and to find out if we needed health insurance at our next visa renewal.  The answer to that question was a quick ‘no’.  This was a big relief since it would be very expensive due to our age.  We were also informed that we can do the check-in online, saving a trip to the office.  The way it stands, we only have to show up for our visa renewal.  Yea.

From the immigration office, we went on a new adventure.  I had a doctor’s appointment in Mae Chan.  Usually we would take the Super Highway north to Mae Chan, but since we were next to the new bypass road, I decided to take it north.  There are very few traffic lights, and very little traffic.  It’s almost like a freeway.  A new portion had been opened and it took us farther than expected.  We took the same road home and it was super quick, considering it was Friday afternoon.  Progress does have it’s perks.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.    Time for the ‘Funnies’.

                     Peace,

                               Danny

Mastering

Hi,

We had another one of those picture postcard days.  You know, blue sky, felt like the 95°F ‘feels like’ temperature that was predicted.  There were occasional breezes to keep it a little tropical.  

The ‘Zany Day’ song was recognized by a bunch of you.  Sir Elton has a ton of memorable hits.  Here’s a little more:

“They said stay at home boy, you gotta tend the farm.  Living in the city boy, is going to break your heart.  But how can you stay, when your heart says no?  How can you stop when your feet say go.  You better get back, __ __.  Living in the city ain’t where it’s at.  It’s like trying to find gold in a silver mine.  It’s like trying to drink whisky, oh, from a bottle of wine.  Get back, __ __, oh yeah, get back, __ __…” Clue:  Title is two slang words describing the singer.

Our morning coffee adventure took place at Chivit Thamma Da.  Every time we get ready to go somewhere, JaiDee gets all excited.  He loves to ride in the van and he expects to ride in the mornings.  Today was his third trip to Chivit.  He didn’t see his dog friend, but he saw plenty of humans that he likes.  It’s almost as if he took a course in ‘Meeting your public’, the way he sits so politely and lets them pet him and gush with baby talk.  A real social butterfly.  Speaking of butterflies, he really wants to catch one.  I have explained that it would not be cool, and might even alter the balance of nature, but he hasn’t gotten the message yet (555).

Our next stop was the big event of the day.  JaiDee was taken to Browney’s Pet World.  Imagine a kid going into a ToysRUs for the first time, or the jellybean shop at Universal Studios; sensory overload.  His tail was wagging, his nose couldn’t decide what to smell next, and I thought he’d rip open a few bags of kibble.  A young man on the staff asked if he ate chicken and we said yes.  He returned with a chicken jerky treat, but we had to decline due to his special puppy diet.  It was a sweet thought.  When we left, JaiDee had a new collar and a new toy.  This dog’s life isn’t so bad.

Today’s photo is pretty obvious.  JaiDee trying to break into the biggest bag of food on the bottom shelf. 

This afternoon we swam.  It’s been a long time since Lisa had been in the pool, and since we got the puppy, we’ve been a little preoccupied.  Natcha ‘baby sat’ while we did a few laps and it was great.  Natch baked today and that was also great.  She made her famous Cacao cookies and created a coconut flour cake with slices of coconut inside that was delicious.  The trick will be to not pig out on all this good stuff.  'Oh, but it’s healthy,' he said.

We went back to the walking track this evening.  It really isn’t a track, more like a paved path, but you get the idea.  Things were going well until the last part, when a women with an older Beagle jogged up from behind.  She paused and the dogs touched noses, tails wagged and they moved on.  This was not enough of a visit for our Mr. Social.  We waited for them to move on, but JaiDee wanted to catch up and visit more.  That meant a lot of tugging and trying to get him to stay focused (555).  Finally, we switched to another path and he lost the scent.  And now he sleeps.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Mastering others is strength.

Mastering yourself is true power."

~Lao Tzu

Mistakes

Hi,

We had a beautiful blue-sky day today.  I’m sure it must have reached the high 80’s as predicted.  There were vague sprinkles downtown in the early evening but they didn’t hang around (555).

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John.  Time for a ‘Zany Day’ song from him:

“When I look back boy, I must have been green, bopping in the country, fishing in a stream.  Looking for an answer, trying to find a sign, until I saw your city lights, honey I was blind.  They said get back __ __.  Better get back to the woods.  Well I quit those days and my redneck ways, and oh, the change is gonna do me good…”  Hint: A country boy getting back to his roots.

These days, this should be called ‘The Adventures of JaiDee’.  (Notice my new way of spelling his name)  This morning we returned to The Wanderer with a little variation.  As we walked down the entry path, we saw one of the workers putting on his bug-spraying gear, so or the first time, we took JaiDee inside the main restaurant.  It was almost empty, so there weren’t many people distractions.  He spent most of his time under chairs, chewing on the wicker that held them together.  

Today’s photo is a morning profile, captured by Lisa.  And yes, he’s bigger.

We have been slowly remodeling our guest room, partly for the upgrade, but mostly to make it harder for the puppy to do more damage.  This morning we got a second bedside night stand to match the one we got last week.  It has four drawers, is taller and not as easy to chew on.  Little dog was standing on his hind legs and grabbing stuff off of my other table.  There’s a whole different world from the ‘standing position’.  

We’re off to the walking track for our nightly exercise.  If the timing is right, JaiDee will sleep longer.

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

“When I woke up this morning

my girlfriend asked me, ‘Did you 

sleep good?’  I said, ‘No, I made

a few mistakes."

~Steven Wright

Change

Hi,

Today the weather was great.  Clear sky, warm air, and a forecast that didn’t happen.  We can wait a few days for more rain (555).

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was memorable for some.  Here is the entire chorus for your consideration:  “So __ __ __ __, where the dogs of society howl.  You can’t plant me in your penthouse, I’m going back to my plough.  Back to the howling old owl in the woods, hunting the horny-back toad.  Oh, I finally decided my future lies beyond the __ __ __.”  Clue:  The actual title is four words.  There is a color involved.  

Our daily schedule is not what it used to be.  Everything now revolves around Jai Dee.  When we go to bed, when we get up, how many naps we take, it all depends on the puppy.  He has a routine, to a certain degree, and he brought us into it (555).  There are about 4 naps a day (we don’t take that many), three meals (a tiny lunch), and lots of exercise.  He’s a little dynamo that requires lots of activity to tone down his boundless energy.  Tonight, for the third time, we took him to the exercise park right near us.  Last night it was pretty empty, but tonight all the walkers and runners were out.  Jai Dee thought he was supposed to interact with everyone he saw.  That meant a lot of leash tugging.  He finally got it, that he’s not the ambassador of goodwill at the park.  The walks are 15 minutes at a brisk pace.  If the humans are up to it, they will get longer over time.  He comes home and crashes.  Yea.

The first photo is the bridge we take into town.  The second photo is what puppy looks like after the walk.

This morning we went to The Wanderer, where we met Sutheera for lunch.  Jai Dee was his charming self and made a new friend.  During a walk in the woods, we came to a big pile of leaves that is becoming compost.  Oh, heaven to a dog’s nose.  Jai Dee got a little frantic, wanting to go into the pile, but I held him back.  It was something to behold.

Sutheera is going to Japan for a short vacation.  She will be in the province at the base of Mt. Fuji, in farm country.  

It will be a nice contrast to being head of the School of Business at Rajabhat University.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

“If you change the way you

look at things, the things you 

look at change.”

~Wayne Dyer

Attitude

Hi,

The rain came this weekend.  We had a few brief, hard rains and steady light showers as well.  Lots of new smells for Jai Dee to experience.

The ‘Old School Friday’ tune was "Blueberry Hill" by Fats Domino.  Congrats to those who knew.  This week we move from the 50’s to the 70’s, and across the pond as well.  ‘Easy Monday’ is next:  “When are you gonna come down, when are you going to land.  I should have stayed on the farm, I should have listened to my old man.  You know, you can’t hold me forever, I didn’t sign up with you.  I’m not a present for your friends to open, this boy’s too young to be singing the blues.  So __ __ __ __, where the dogs of society howl…”  Hint:  There’s a reference to a famous wizard movie.

Jai Dee has been quite the man about town.  Saturday morning we went to Chivit Tamma Da, where he met Nam Kok (coke), a Golden Retriever rescue that Joakim, the owner, actually saved from the raging Kok river a few years ago.  They hit it off pretty good.  Everywhere we take this little guy, he makes new friends.  He hung out at our table, wanted to dive off the porch, and tried to bite as many plants as possible.  

Sunday was the anniversary of the death of King Rama 9 and because it was on a Sunday, Monday was declared a holiday also.  This is very common, allowing people to have an extra day to celebrate.  This week, instead of me picking up lunch, the three of us went to The Wanderer.  Jai Dee is getting better at going for walks in the woods, though he still wants to wander off the path.  On both outings over the weekend, he posed for photos with new fans. 

This morning we went to Big C and the mall.  There will be another pet expo at Central Plaza and it will have new relevance.  The last time we went, people brought their pets.  It was something to see.  I think little Mr. Dog would like to see that.  

Tomorrow we’re having lunch with out good friend Sutheera at The Wanderer.  This will be her first time meeting the little charmer.  Next thing you know, he’ll have a Facebook page.  

Today’s photo was taken in the play area.  It’s big enough for him to move around quite a bit, in fact, Lisa throws his loud squeaky toy and he chases it.  It’s a good place to spend some of that puppy energy.

We’re going for an evening walk at the Provincial Government building.  It’s close to the house and has a new walking path that’s just right for exercising Jai Dee before bed time.  

Have a Great Week.

                               Peace,

                                         Danny

“Our attitude towards others

determines their attitude 

towards us.”

~Earl Nightingale

Friday Funnies

Hi,

Early this morning, the rains came.  We’re talkin’ long, extended, ground-soaking rain.  The air this morning, after the rain, was clear and clean.  This afternoon someone started burning and it has been stinky (sigh).

The ‘Zany Day’ song from Fats Domino was “Blue Monday”.  ‘Old School Friday’ continues a color theme:

“I found my thrill on __ __.  On __ __, when I found you.  The moon stood still, on __ __.  And lingered until, my dreams came true.  The wind in the willow played, love’s sweet melody.  But all of those vows we made were never to be.”  Hint:  There is elevation involved.  Oh, and don’t forget the fruit.

This morning we went back to The Wanderer to pick up some things Khun Noot had for Lisa.  Of course, Jai Dee went with us.  He is really enjoying rides and when we go outside to play, he stops at the van.  His friend Mercy wasn’t around today, but several of his human friends were there and he loved the attention.  He has been very polite on these road trips.  There has been no biting and only a minimum of jumping.  

The ‘Orange Cat Crisis’ has finally come to a head.  Our neighbor had a cat that we would see from time to time.  Then the cat had kittens and they got the idea that our yard was a day spa.  The orange cat had another litter and now there is a gang of orange cats in our yard every day.  They sun by the pool, stroll in the gardens, and lounge on the porch.  Now that we have Jai Dee, we really don’t want them around.  The neighbor claims that they’re not hers, but they always run to her yard.  We’re sure they have never been to a vet for shots.  Today Gong suggested that he call Khun Yee, who does construction, to see if he could build some kind of barrier.  He offered to take them to a temple to be cared for, or given to those who want them.  Gong and Natcha will corral the cats and put then in the travel crate and Yee will take it from there.  

This evening we had dinner in honor of Cat’s 22 birthday.  It’s actually tomorrow, but tonight was better timing.  We met at Black Canyon Restaurant at Central Plaza Mall.  The guest list grew from 1 to 4 this year.  There was Cat’s boyfriend and two little girls who are relatives of Cat.  They are May and Mai, and are 9 and 10.  It was their first trip to the mall and they were amazed.  Cat told us they were afraid to get on the escalator until she explained that it was safe and showed them how.  They live in Cat’s village and Chiang Rai city is a long way off.  Cat remembered the first time she came to the city.  After dinner we went to the lower level to see the art exhibit about King Rama 9, the late King.  Lisa has a piece in this exhibit and the girls wanted to know when she did it and how long it took.  They spent a lot of time looking at the children’s art as well as the adult work.  It was an enjoyable evening.  We don’t usually go to the mall on Friday night, and now I know why.  It was very busy.  

Today’s photo is Jai Dee showing Mercy how he’s learning to sing.

This is a Formula 1 weekend, this time in Japan.  Due to the huge Super Typhoon heading towards the country, the Saturday activities of the race had to be cancelled.  In fact, most of Japan is on a critical storm watch, with some towns and villages being evacuated.  The racing teams have lifted all of their equipment in the pits up off the floor, in anticipation of flooding at the race track. It’s too far north to rain on us. 

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.    The ‘Funnies’ are next.  Formula 1 from Japan on Sunday.  Zoom!

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

Learn

Hi,

Not much to say about the weather, except that we’re supposed to get rain starting tomorrow or Friday.  See, right there, that phrase ‘supposed to’ puts doubt in my mind.  If it rains, I’ll tell you.  If it doesn’t, I’ll tell you.

The ‘Zany Day’ song is actually about a day.  I’m sure this will help boil it down:  “Saturday mornin’, oh, Saturday mornin’, all my tiredness has gone away.  Got my money, and my honey, and I’m out on the stand to play.  Sunday mornin’ my head is bad.  But it’s worth it for the time that I’ve had, but I’ve got to get my rest ‘cause __ a mess."

This morning Jai Dee let us sleep a little later than usual.  Notice I said ‘let’.  There are large chunks of the day that are dictated by the needs and desires of this ‘child dog’.  We are fortunate that we don’t have to leave him alone all day, or put him in strange situations for his ‘day care’.  The first few months can make all the difference between having a happy, mellow dog, and a neurotic beast.  After we all had our respective breakfasts, we napped again until 8am or so.  Realize that the morning really started around 5:15am.  Occasional snoozing doesn’t count.  

Our morning outing began with a trip to Teppawan art supply to see if they had a special ball used in the game Sepak Takraw.  This is a game that resembles volley ball, but uses only the feet and head to move the ball over the net.  The classic version is made of woven bamboo strips, which makes for a very strong, but light ball.  All we found today was the plastic version.  The idea is to use it to play with Jai Dee, and also as a chew toy.

We had coffee at Work@Home, and had a brief visit with Katai before we had to leave.  We may have a play date with them and Jai Dee next week.  

This afternoon we met our friend Lisa and her two dogs, "Black Betty” and “Daisy Dukes" at The Wanderer.  Jai Dee was excited to meet the smaller creatures, but they were a little apprehensive about his puppy enthusiasm.  I told him to tone it down a bit, but he couldn’t help himself.  All of these visits will go much better when they can meet in our yard, after Jai Dee is a little older.  Then they can all run around without the restraint of a leash.  As it is right now, he would try to eat everything in the yard.  It’s the puppy brain.  

Today’s photo is of a photo hanging on the wall at a restaurant called ‘Steak Specialties’.  We stopped by Sunday night so Tatt could say ‘Hi’ to Boot, our former housekeeper.  They are related and he hadn’t seen her in years.  

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                      Peace,

                                Danny

“I am always doing that which 

I cannot do, in order that I may learn

how to do it.”

~Pablo Picasso

Resist

Hi,

Today was another typical day here in Chiang Rai.  The high was 88°F and the sky was partly cloudy.  Nice!

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “My Blue Heaven” by Fats Domino.  That answer should make this ‘Zany Day’ song easy to recall:  “__ __, how I have __ __, got to work like a slave all day.  Here come Tuesday, oh hard Tuesday, I’m so tired, got no time to play.  Here come Wednesday, I’m beat to my socks, my gal calls, got to tell her that I’m out, ‘cause Thursday is a hard workin’ day, and Friday I get my pay.”  Hint:  There is a day of the week involved.  Oh, and someone’s favorite color (555).

This was a big day in the life of Jai Dee.  It was his first trip to The Wanderer to meet another dog.  Cat came over and went with us.  We had time to take Jai Dee for a little walk, pull him back from all the yummy plant life, and get situated at an outdoor table.  Kwan came over to the table to let us know that she and Mercy had just arrived.  Mercy is a big dog, and when she came bounding over to meet Jai Dee, he was a little startled.  After the obligatory sniffing, Jai Dee got comfortable and tried to make friends as if Mercy was a little dog.  It was close quarters, and with Jai Dee on a leash, Mercy could bounce away whenever she wanted to.  By the end of it, they had both calmed down and things were pretty cool.  We’ll be returning on Friday and they’ll probably get another chance at hanging out.

First Encounter

The Greeting

When we got home from The Wanderer, Jai Dee got his lunch and proceeded to take a long nap.  It was a pretty tiring morning, meeting another dog in the ‘woods’ like that.  While Natcha fixed our lunch, Cat and Nitchanan had long conversations and played games like hide-and-seek in the kitchen.  That last game was fun for them because there are only a few places to hide.  It was fun, hearing the ‘family sounds’, as Lisa put it, from the kitchen.

It’s feeling like a Wacky Wednesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“I can resist everything

except temptation.”

~Oscar Wilde

Soul

Hi,

The weather has reverted to it’s old form.  Cool mornings, hot days, no rain.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song goes way back.  Maybe that’s why I haven’t received so many responses.  Here’s a more:

“You’ll see a smiling face, a fireplace, a cozy room.  A little nest that nestled where the roses bloom.  Just Mollie and me, and baby makes three; we’re happy in __ __ __.”  Clue:  This song was actually written in 1924 and published and recorded in ’27.  The version we’re humming is from 1955.  What color is the sky on a good day?

Last night a coconut fell to the earth.  Usually it would just be set aside.  If ripe enough, Gong would do something with it.  With the coming of Jai Dee, it has prompted the creation of a new sport: Coconut Football.  Tatt and Jai Dee had a ball this morning, running, dodging and faking each other out.  When Jai Dee got tired, he would just drape himself over the coconut and rest.  Clever puppy.

Tatt thought that there was a 10am bus to Bangkok, so we got him there in time to get his ticket without rushing.  Just as we turned on the highway leaving the bus station and heading for Starbuck’s, Tatt called to say that there was no morning bus.  One ‘U Turn’ later and the three of us were headed for Starbuck’s.  After coffee we shopped at Big C, where it was nice to have Tatt help with heavy stuff.  During lunch, we had an interesting conversation about language.  Tatt’s English has improved a lot since the last time we talked.  He explained to us how he visualizes pictures rather than words, and it helps him identify the thing he’s trying to express.  It only works with words that are ‘things’, but helps him with his vocabulary.  Then it got real deep, explaining the differences between regular Thai and Royal Thai, and the various origins of the language.  

This afternoon Jai Dee was looking out onto the yard through the big glass doors, when a bird hopped into view.  Little dog went on high alert.  For a puppy with a short attention span, he stayed focused on that bird for a long time.  It moved out of view and Jai Dee kept his gaze in the same area until it came back.  At one point he got excited and pawed the window.  Very entertaining for the humans.

Tomorrow will be a big day for Jai Dee.  He’s going to The Wanderer to meet Mercy and the staff.  It will take some work to keep him from trying to bite all the beautiful plants along the paths.  Biting the foliage is one of his things to do.  Should be an opportunity for some fun photos. 

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

“Let your soul stand cool and composed

before a million universes.”

~Walt Whitman