Friday Funnies

Hi,

The weather forecasters are predicting cooler and cooler temps next week.  We’re actually going to see some daytime numbers in the 70’s.  Oh my, break out the hooded parkas (555).

The ‘Middle Song’ this week was “Hey Nineteen” by Steely Dan, of course.  Their ‘Old School Friday’ song was released in 1972.  “Your everlasting summer, you can see it fading fast, so you grab a piece of something that you think is gonna last.  You wouldn’t know a diamond if you held it in your hand.  The things you think are precious, I can’t understand.  (Chorus)  Are you __ __ __ __, stowin’ away the time?  Are you gatherin’ up the tears, have you had enough of mine?  Are you __ __ __ __, stowin’ away the time?  Are you gatherin’ up the tears, have you had enough of mine?  Hint:  A conversation at a reunion?  Note: I was going to give you links to this week’s songs but Youtube is acting up.  Look for them next week, or look them up yourself.  There’s a concept.

Our morning was spent around the house.  We have an insurance agent that we see around this time each year.  He makes sure that our policies don’t lapse and brings the renewal papers to the house.  We’ve been with him since we built the house.  There is always some time spent visiting about his life and that’s interesting.  He’s moving up in the company and it’s just good to watch someone progress.  

After lunch we went to ‘Little C’ to do some shopping.  Amazon Coffee provided the afternoon lift.  A small iced-coffee is huge in their world.  Made a point not to drink the whole thing.  We found what we needed at ‘C’ and our mission was accomplished.  When we got home JaiDee was a little sleepy, and then wide awake, likely due to some meds he just started taking to deal with the itching.  

I managed to get a few useable shots of JaiDee frolicking on ‘his couch’ this afternoon.  In the first pic he’s watching Lisa leave the room.  In the second, he’s in the classic ‘lets play’ pose.

This is the weekend of the Singha Park Farm Festival.  We’ve been to it in the past, but now it’s a giant affair that doesn’t have the same appeal for us.  That, and the light show at Wat Rong Khun will make it a fun-filled weekend for locals and travelers alike.  We’ll be hangin’ with the puppy. 

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.   Time for the ‘Funnies’.  This is the last race of the Formula 1 season, from  Abu Dhabi.  Zoom.

                      Peace,

                                Danny

Life

Hi,

Today was another day of cool/warm/a little colder.  Some folks call it winter, others call it the cold season.  Either way, it’s a seasonal shift.

This week’s ‘Middle Song’ is not so familiar, apparently.  A few readers got it, so here’s more to ponder:  

“__ __ that’s ‘Retha Franklin.  She don’t remember The Queen of Soul.  It’s hard times befallen The Soul Survivors. She thinks I’m crazy, but I’m just growing old.  __ __, no we got nothing in common.  No we can’t talk at all.  Please take me along when you slide on down.”  Clue:  The last of the teen years.

This morning Lisa and I went on a puppy-less coffee date.  We went to The Wanderer and just sat back and enjoyed the quiet of the morning, looking out at the woods.  A Tracey Chapman CD was playing in the background and the scene was cool.  Kwan came over to our table and in a brief conversation, she told us that she is taking the two village ‘mother’ dogs to the vet and having them spayed.  They are responsible, through no fault of their own, for most of the street dogs in the village.   

JaiDee has been having a terrible time with itching.  We took him back to his vet this morning and discovered that he has a skin infection.  It’s treatable with a special shampoo and some pills.  The real work began when we got home and had to wash everything.  Natcha is a real trouper.  All of his bedding and toys are now squeaky clean.  We also learned that he gained a half a pound since the beginning of the week.  After his shower, Lisa noticed that his feet are bigger.  Oh my.  Below is ‘Baby JaiDee’, for a ‘Throwback Thursday’ memory.

This evening we met Lisa and Jereon at The Hungry Wolf for the big Thanksgiving Dinner Buffet.  When we arrived the place was humming with diners.  There was a booth for 4 that was perfect.  Right next to us were friends of mine so it gave it a warm vibe.  The selection at the buffet was excellent.  There was a delicious dressing, mashed potatoes, and of course turkey.  It was one of those meals where everything tastes so good you just can’t stop eating.  I didn’t pile my plate, but I still got full.  Well, considering there was apple pie (555) it was unavoidable.  

The conversations were lots of fun.  Jereon, who is from the Netherlands, wanted to know the nature of the holiday, things like who celebrates, how many days, etc.  While in the food line, we learned that the owner of The Hungry Wolf was originally from Holland before moving to Australia.  He and Jereon had an exchange about their common knowledge about some food item and roots.

When we got home from dinner, it was time to take JaiDee for his walk.  After relaxing for a few minutes it was determined that wasn’t going to happen.  We were exhausted and the idea of a brisk, 20 minute walk was out of the question.  JaiDee seemed ready for a nap anyway.

Have a Thrilling Thursday and a Happy Thanksgiving.

                       Peace,

                                 Danny 

“There is more to life than 

increasing it’s speed.”

~Mahatma Gandhi

Service

Hi,

The weather is definitely changing.  All parts of this day were cooler.  This evening on our walk it got cold.  Of course, the low 70’s feels cold to me (555).  The sky was totally clear.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number” by Steely Dan, from the 1974 “Pretzel Logic” LP.  This week’s ‘Middle Song’ is from 1980.  “Way back when in Sixty-Seven.  I was the dandy of Gamma Chi.  Sweet things from Boston, so young willing, moved down to Scarsdale.  Where the hell am I?  __ __, no we can’t dance together.  No we can’t talk at all, please take me along when you slide on down.”  Hint:  Hmm, there is a number involved.

This morning we went to Big C early.  It wasn’t the weekly thing, just a few essentials.  While we were headed toward the juice aisle, we were surprised by what seems to be either pre-staging for a cooking contest or a class.  Each table had identical ‘tools’ for preparing a dish or a meal.  We didn’t stay to taste the samples.

Our lunch date at The Wanderer turned out to be brunch for 6 adults and 3 dogs.  There was Lisa and her boyfriend, Jeroen, plus her two dogs, and later we were joined by Walter and Panae.  Jeroen’s name is pronounced Yoo-Roon.  He’s from The Netherlands and works two months at-a-time off-shore for a company that reclaims oil-drilling rigs.  We had met Walter and Panae years ago and it was nice to reconnect.  They have an avocado farm in New Zealand and are selling avocado oil capsules here in Thailand.  I found it interesting when he mentioned how they had to have different certifications for their capsules to conform with the various religious criteria.  In order to sell to everyone, awareness is necessary.  JaiDee was an adorable monster on this trip.  I think he was a bit overwhelmed and disappointed.  He couldn’t visit with everybody and the two dogs at our table didn’t want to play with him.  When we got home, he crashed.

After a brief nap, we had a visit from Atom, who had yet to meet JaiDee.  He was still very sleepy when she arrived.  Not long after their meeting, he curled up in his crate and went to sleep.  Atom has a new puppy so we shared stories and compared notes.  ‘Party Animal’ woke up, chewed some ice, and said goodbye.  

By the time we went on our evening walk, all of the tugging seemed to be out of JaiDee’s system and he was a perfect gentleman.  

Tomorrow we go to a big Thanksgiving dinner at The Hungry Wolf.  That will be interesting.  I’m guessing there will be a crowd, which means we’re bound to see some folks we haven’t seen in ages.  I’m really going for the turkey.

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

“Service to others is the rent

you pay for your room here on earth.”

~Muhammad Ali

Plants

Hi,

I supposed it’s time to admit that it’s cooling off here in Chiang Rai.  With highs in the low 80’s and lows in the low 60’s, I don’t know what will become of me (555).  I wish it would rain (there’s a song for that).

The ‘Easy Monday’ song is by a group.  Some call them a blend of Jazz and Rock.  “I have a friend in town, he’s heard your name.  We can go out driving on Slow Hand Row.  We could stay inside and play games, I don’t know.  And you could have a change of heart.  __ __ __ __ __, you don’t wanna call nobody else.  Send it off in a letter to yourself.  __ __ __ __ __, it’s the only one you own.  You might use it if you feel better, when you get home.”  Clue:  It’s ‘Easy Monday’ so guess what?  No major clues.  With a cellphone, this song might never have happened (5)

This morning we took JaiDee to The Wanderer.  He hasn’t been there in a few days and as soon as we arrived Mercy ran up, ready to play.  Our arrival also created a little havoc since Joey was downstairs by the kitchens, but couldn’t come out and play.  He barked his disapproval but still didn’t get to come out.  He’s still on play restriction until his leg is completely healed.  JaiDee and Mercy were about to run into the woods, but JaiDee’s leash put an end to that.  Kwan told us how Mercy ‘lures’ customers into the woods and then jumps into the river.  The customers run back, reporting that the dog fell into the river.  Kwan laughs and tells them that she just climbs right out, no problem.

We spent the rest of the day at home.  We were supposed to pick up our tickets for the light show at Wat Rong Khun tonight, but just didn’t feel like going out.  Besides, we had no ‘baby sitter’ (always a good excuse).  The fact is, Lisa was drawing and I was feeling lazy.  There you have it.  Lisa found a photo on the temple website that gives you an idea of the concept.  Should I find some better ones, I will share.  I know that some of our friends with big cameras were there, snapping away.

Tomorrow we have a lunch at The Wanderer with our friend Lisa, who is visiting from Bangkok.  The shoe and handbag business is getting very busy.  We always have a fun time and I’m sure Mr. Puppy will fill in the blank spots.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“My fake plants died because I did

not pretend to water them.”

~Mitch Hedberg

Kind

Hi,

We’re still in that holding pattern, running hot and cool.  The only thing we don’t like about this is the cooling of the pool.  This is why many people cover their pools at night, to retain the heat accumulated during the day.  It works fine if you have a rectangular pool, but ours is too irregular for a cover without a lot of work.

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “You Are Everything (and Everything Is You) by The Stylistics.  I actually gave you that one when I included the link (555).  The week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song should be familiar to many readers.

“We hear you’re leaving, that’s OK.  I thought our little wild time had just begun.  I guess you kind of scared yourself, you turn and run, but if you have a change of heart.  __ __ __ __ __, you don’t wanna call nobody else, send it off in a letter to yourself.  __ __ __ __ __, it’s the only one you own. You might use it if you feel better, when you get home.”  Hint:  This tune was a hit from this artist’s 1974 LP.  There is a name involved, and some logic in the title of the album.

As JaiDee continues to grow, he also gains more confidence and pushes more buttons.  On some level, it’s amazing how much young beings can remember, and on another level there are things I’d wish this little guy would forget.  If something is fun to chew on, you can distract, change the subject, entertain and still find it fresh in his mind, ready to chew once more.  On our walks there is a turn we make and he starts the turn before we do.  He knows where to go.  He also remembers which part of the path has the most tiny grasshoppers.  He’d love to catch one but they’re just too fast.  Furniture has been off limits until this weekend.  He had jumped up on a little couch to join Nitchanan and Gop several times, only to be told to get off.  Part of his motive was to bite the pretty pillows.  Yesterday I took the pillows and put them away.  Then he was allowed on the little couch.  He looked so proud.  Later he raced upstairs and realized he could very easily jump up on the bed.  There he was lying right in the middle of the bed when I walked in, king of the hill.  That one will not be OK when we move upstairs to stay.

Last week I mentioned that there was tree trimming going on at The Wanderer.  My suspicions were correct about letting the sunlight come to the waterfall and pond.  Kwan explained that they have a schedule, depending on rainfall, as to when they trim certain trees.  The photo below shows the light on the pond.

This afternoon we had to go to immigration to report our trip to Chiang Mai last week.  It only took a few minutes with our favorite officer and it was done.  It’s a way of keeping track of expats leaving their ‘home’ province.  In the past, there has apparently been some ‘wandering’ without accountability, if you catch my drift.

Have a Great Week.

                    Peace,

                              Danny

“Be kind whenever possible. 

It is always possible.”

~Dalai Lama

Friday Funnies

Hi,

The weather in Chiang Rai is doing that hot/cold thing that happens this time of year.  By the time we leave for the States, we will be ready for the daytime temps in Culver City, but not the nights.  Hmm.

The ‘Middle Song’ this week was “People Make The World Go ‘Round” by The Stylistics.  ‘Old School Friday’ is next:

“Today I saw somebody who looked just like you.  She walked like you do, I thought it was you.  As she turned the corner, I called out your name, I felt so ashamed when it wasn’t you, wasn’t you.  __ __ __ __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __ __ __ __.”  Hint:  This was another hit for The Stylistics.  Singer is still invested in lost love.   For those who don’t know, or remember the songs of The Stylistics, here are the tunes we covered this week

in order of appearance.  Just click on the link and listen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alvEUFJtMw8&list=RDEMNfbSklUEuo28t8frgooDPw&start_radio=1

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2owZXPyeilc&list=RDEMNfbSklUEuo28t8frgooDPw&index=6

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ao8Ttbzqdns&list=RDEMNfbSklUEuo28t8frgooDPw&index=2

This morning it was cold again.  JaiDee slept until almost 6am.  If he can keep this up, maybe our sleep schedule can return to normal (whatever that is).  It may have been a side-effect of his rabies vaccine last night, we don’t know.  Hopefully he’s turned a corner.  Today was a high-energy day for the ‘little one’.  Walks around the house, calming sessions, and snooker didn’t seem to slow his roll.  After a 40 minute walk, and some running on the lawn, he still had energy left to zoom around the room, crashing into things as if possessed.  Now he’s sleeping.

Coffee at The Wanderer was great today.  Mercy was waiting for us in her yard.  When we came down the walkway, she rushed down the steps and met JaiDee at the gate.  They touched noses and Mercy immediately went around the gate to her secret exit and they began playing before we got to the main area.  Kwan and her sister Kern were sitting next to one of ‘our tables’ and it couldn’t have been planned better.  Since we keep JaiDee on a leash, Mercy can leave when he gets to be too much, which happens every time.  Kwan speaks to her in Thai and she totally understands.  If she gets a little crazy there’s a mom there to calm her down.  Trying to take photos of dogs playing is next to impossible without a fast camera.  It’s just a blur of fur.  

The first photo today is Mr. JaiDee deep in sleep.  The second photo is Lisa and friends at The Wanderer.

After our morning excursion, we took JaiDee home and went out to get treats at Browney’s.  He was a little too much to take to the store today.  We left with a big bag of treats and things for training.  Then we went to the office of Tourism Authority of Thailand to get free VIP tickets for a special light show that will be at Wat Rong Khun.  We have seen photos and it looks incredible.  The White Temple is bathed in colored lights and I imagine there is music that goes with it.  We will be attending next Tuesday evening so I’ll have lots to tell.

This afternoon Gong took the van to the carwash down the road.  He wanted to use the high-pressure wash to get all the mud from our trip off the bottom of the van.  I forgot how good it looks when it’s clean (555).

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

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

Gain/Loss

Hi,

This morning it was cold.  I don’t know the temp, but I put on my hoodie for the first time in a very long time.  It warmed up, as expected, and turned into a warm, sunny day.  I just looked and the range is 88/62°F.  The big news today was the earthquake in Laos that was felt all over Thailand.  There were no reports of damage, but it was a bit startling and JaiDee jumped up and barked.  He knew that was not normal.  

The ‘Middle Song’ has a few friends out there.  I know it may seem obscure, but when you hear it you’ll remember.

“Wall Street losin’ dough on ev’ry share.  They’re blaming it on longer hair.  Big men smokin’ on their easy chairs, on a fat cigar without a care.  But that’s what makes the world go ‘round, the ups and downs, a carousel.  Changing people’s heads around, go underground young man.  __ __ __ __ __ __.”  Clue:  You might say it’s a tribute to the individual, the little guy who keeps things going.

This morning we took JaiDee to The Wanderer.  We could tell that he missed the morning ritual for going for ‘coffee’.  He picks up on things like what time it is, which shoes are being worn, and the fact that we use the carport door rather than the back door.  He was more than ready to see his buddies.  Unfortunately, none of his dog friends were out, it was still a little early.  The staff was quite pleased to see him though.  As we were leaving we heard barking.  It was Joey, who was still in the upstairs apartment.  Mercy came to the rail and didn’t say anything, just wondered why she wasn’t told that company had come.  

The first of today’s photos was taken during one of JaiDee’s ‘cool down’ sessions.  When he gets real crazy, Lisa holds him in her lap and he immediately relaxes.  They stay like that sometimes until he falls asleep.  He was about to doze off when I caught this.

This evening we went to the vet for the second rabies shot.  Our little ambassador of goodwill was in a crazy mood. He thinks it’s his job to greet and make friends with all of the animals in the waiting room.  After several tries they managed to get him to sit still on the scale and discovered that he weighs 16.8 kg (37 lbs).  

On our way home from the vet’s I stopped so we could show you the extent that the ‘holiday’ spirit has started early in Chiang Rai.  We’ve never seen a store like this, at least not this early.  There was also a full-size Santa playing  saxophone but he was behind the tree.  

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                  Peace,

                            Danny

“For everything you have missed, you

have gained something else, and for 

everything you gain, you lose something

else.”

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Word

Hi,

The weather continues in it’s current pattern of warm days and cool nights.  By cool, I mean T-shirt temps in the evenings.  We’re still wishing for a little rain.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Betcha By Golly, Wow” by The Stylistics.  Time for the ‘Middle Song’ by the group:

“Trashmen didn’t get the trash today. Oh, why?  Because they want more pay.  Buses on strike, want a raise in fare, so they can help pollute the air.  But that’s what makes the world go ‘round, the ups and downs, a carousel.  Changing people’s heads around, go underground young man.  __ __ __ __ __ __.”  Hint:  A little social commentary from the Philly Sound crew.  There are references to the title scattered through this verse.  

Last night, in Chiang Mai, we got the longest nights rest in over 2.5 months.  Hmm, that happens to be how long we’ve been living with our new 'alarm dog’.  

Our drive home was uneventful.  We left Chiang Mai around 10:30am and it took about 3 hours and 45 minutes to get home.  That extra 45 minutes was due to the road construction and stopping to eat.  It was interesting to see how the work crews have adapted to living in the middle of nowhere for months at a time.  As we rode through the ‘zone’, I saw little shacks peaking out between the trees and clothes hanging on temporary lines, gathering dust as they dried.  

The big news is that the Loy Krathong festivities are over.  When we took JaiDee out for his walk this evening, the scene across the river was dark, the magical lights were off, and it was quiet.  That means that it will be quiet all night.  

We are very grateful that Natcha and Gong took care of JaiDee, basically for two days.  They stayed in ‘our room’ while we were gone so JaiDee would be in familiar surroundings, and because it’s the only room he can't completely terrorize (555).  We can tell that he got his way with a few things, but I guess that should have been expected.  We were realizing, while away from him, that he is very smart.  He has figured out our responses to certain things and anticipates our reaction to some of his behavior.  Once he grows out of 'puppyville', this could be a good thing.

Today’s photo was taken at Nitchanan’s school.  That’s her on the right, striking a pose for the camera.

It feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

  

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

“If a word in the dictionary

were misspelled, how would we know?”

~Steven Wright

Technology

Hi,

Today we are in Chiang Mai.  The weather on the trip down started cool in Chiang Rai and by the time we reached our destination it was very hot.  We knew this would be the case.  Going from north to south, the temps get progressively hotter.  

There were some sharp memories out there for the ‘Easy Monday’ song.  Here’s the second verse:

“If I could I’d catch a falling star, to shine on you so I’ll know where you are.  Order rainbows in your favorite shade to show I love you, thinking of you.  Write your name across the sky, anything you ask I’ll try, ‘cause

__ __ __, __ you’re the one that I’ve been waiting for forever, and ever will my love for you keep growing strong, keep growing strong.”  Clue:  The title is a string of exclamations.  Sort of in the neighborhood of ‘Golly gee’.  

On our way to the ‘Big City’ we made our traditional stop for breakfast and pie.  When we walked up the steps we were sent into shock.  The pie case was empty.  What???  There’s gotta be pie!  It turns out there was pie and we had some.  Since we had our first breakfast at 5am, it was time to eat again at 9am.  It’s almost 12 hours later and time for our second piece, lemon this time.

The highway construction is still going on with gusto.  Just when it looks like they’re almost done, more earth gets moved and it starts all over again.  One of our friends at the hotel told us it may be one or two more years.  Hmm, I think air service between the two cities could do a brisk business.

We went directly to our chiropractor when we arrived in town.  In the process, we learned about his life back in Wales and you could see by the look on his face that he is thrilled to be there.  He had lived in Asia for 30 years and is finally back home.  Living in the country, near the ocean, sounds pretty cool.  

This evening we strolled through the Night Bazaar and noticed how many empty stalls there were.  The economy here is having an effect on everyone.  On some levels, life goes on, but when tourism is a major part of the economy, things can get shaky.  

I did not take today’s photo, it was taken at The Wanderer by Kwan.  She discovered Mercy had found a way to beat the heat by sitting in a big planter pot.  That’s Joey getting a quick drink.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                    Peace,

                              Danny

“People use technology only to mean 

digital technology.  Technology is 

actually everything we make."

~Margaret Atwood

Attitude

Hi,

We had blue skies all weekend.  Looking at the weather in other places today and discovered that our low (66°) was the high in Culver City.  

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was The Bee Gees and “How Can You Mend A Broken Heart”.  And now, a new week, new artist, new songs and we start with this ‘Easy Monday’ tune:  “There’s a spark of magic in your eyes.  Candyland appears each time you smile.  Never thought that fairy tales came true, but they come true when I’m near you.  You’re a genie in disguise, full of wonder and surprise.  And __ __ __. __, you’re the one that I’ve been waiting for forever and ever will my love for you keep growing strong, keep growing strong…”  Hint:  It’s from the early 70’s and I’ll admit it may not be familiar to everyone, but this group had style.  The title uses two corny exclamations to express amazement.

Our weekend was fairly quiet.  We did a lot of routine things featuring Mr. JaiDee.  He’s now 4.5 months old and growing like crazy.  There are also some new behaviors that we’re seeing.  At this stage in his development, he’s not like a typical Golden in that he’s a watch dog.  He is not afraid to use his big voice when alarmed or senses something is ‘different’.  He also likes to bark ‘hello’ sometimes.  This evening we were in our post-run play on the front lawn.  Natcha, Gong and Nitchanan came home and when they got off the bike and he recognized them, he ran over and barked at them and was ready to play with them.  A little later, a painting fell off the wall in the hallway and he jumped up and started barking.  Had it been an intruder, well, they might have pictured a bigger dog.  

Today’s photos show two moods of JaiDee.  The calm, sweet puppy in the first pic, and 'Little Wild Eye' in the second.

The festival is still going strong across the river.  We saw our friend Nurse Pay and she and her family had gone and enjoyed the carnival aspect.  She showed us a photo of her little 4 year old son sitting in a ferris wheel compartment.  It was his first time riding in one and he loved it.  They also placed Krathongs in the water.  The ones they used were made of parts of the corn plant and break down in the river.  It’s nice to see that many people are being made aware of the move to pollute less.  

Lisa finished her painting for the ArtBridge exhibit and we took it to the gallery this morning.  There is a lot of art going on in Chiang Rai these days.  In addition to the two galleries at ArtBridge, there are two small ArtBridge galleries at Central Plaza Mall, and various artists have opened their own galleries for their own work and workshops.  

Tomorrow morning we will drive down to Chiang Mai.  Our chiropractor who moved back to Wales is back in Thailand briefly.  It will be an overnight so we can get back to the puppy.  We’ll be staying in my favorite little hotel in Chiang Mai, the Dusit D2, in the heart of the Night Bazaar district.  

Have a Great Week.

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

“The greatest discovery of my

generation is that a human being

can alter his/her life by altering

their attitude.”

~William James 

Friday Funnies

Hi,

Another day of classic spring weather here in Chiang Rai.  In case anybody asks, we’re still looking for that rain.

“I can think of younger days when living for my life was everything a man could want to do.  I could never see tomorrow, but I was never told about the sorrow.  And __ __ __ __ __ __ __?  How can you stop the rain from falling down?  How can you stop the sun from shining?  What makes the world go round?…”  Hint:  More than a needle and thread will be needed.

This morning’s trip to The Wanderer was interesting.  The place was empty since it was so early, and a couple of guys were doing some tree trimming, which is unusual to see there.  We think it was to allow some sunlight over the fish pond.  The section they were working on had become a true canopy.  

The rest of the day was spent in our new routine.  Lisa works in her studio while I watch the sleeping dog, just in case we wakes up.  The last thing we need is for him to wake up and start ‘playing’ without supervision (555).  He’s getting tall enough to take things off the night stands.  One thing is for sure, he’s not a passive Golden.  If he keeps his current attitude, he will be a watch dog, rather than a tour guide.  This afternoon he was startled from his twilight nap when Nitchanan came strolling up to the sliding door.  He jumped up and began barking in that stance that means ‘stay back’.  I got him to calm down, took him out so he could see there was no threat and he was cool.  Hmm.

This is the 5th night of the party across the river.  Friday is always the big ‘going out’ night and it looks like this one won’t disappoint.  We’re at the half-way mark and I have an observation:  The women singers have a better balance in their bands sound wise, than the rock and roll screamers with men as ‘singers’.  I can actually hear the women sing, hear melodies and stuff.  So refreshing.  

Today’s photo was snapped while JaiDee was attacking his bed.  He wrestles with it while making cute growling sounds, like he’s a fierce wild beast.  I guess dogs do have fantasies too.

Our evening walk has been upgraded to approximately 30 minutes, due to the brisk pace.  Even with that extra energy being expended, puppy still manages to run back and forth across the yard, and then inside has enough juice for a round of ‘zoomies’ in the kitchen.  

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.    It’s time for the ‘Funnies’.  Don’t forget the Formula 1 GP from Brazil.  Zoom!

                     Peace,

                               Danny

Time

Hi,

The day woke up thinking it would rain, then the breezes came and blew the clouds away.  The day was still happy.

This week’s ‘Middle Song’ has a wonderful chorus.  Maybe you will sing along:  “__ __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __ __, I really mean to learn, ‘cause we’re living in a world of fools, breaking us down when they all should let us be.  We belong to you and me…”  Clue:  This song was also in the film “Saturday Night Fever” in ’77.  

Today we stayed at home.  After waking up at around 4am again, JaiDee stayed awake so we all went to the kitchen at 5am.  JaiDee had a long nap after breakfast, which gave Lisa a chance to go up to her studio and work on a painting she’s doing for the ArtBridge group show next month.  The afternoon also brought a long nap for the puppy and a productive session for the artist.  

Yesterday I posted a photo of bananas on a motorbike.  Today, we have bananas floating in the river.  Well, banana tree.  While we were at Chivit Thamma Da the other day, I watched the man in the photo as he carefully cut down and divided the trunk, and then ‘walked’ the pieces down the river.  Not sure of his purpose.  Maybe to make Krathongs for the upcoming festival?

Nitchanan and JaiDee are quite a pair.  They like each other, but she doesn’t quite get the idea that he’s a puppy and doesn’t think like a little kid, at least not one her age.  As soon as she picks up one of his toys, he thinks it’s time to play, which means trying to get it from her.  She runs from him, making it a game, and then we have the potential for a meltdown.  It happened again this afternoon.  Someday.

After dinner we went for our walk.  We went the usual way around the path, but at a higher rate of speed.  When we finished what is our usual pattern, only 10 minutes had passed.  So, around again and when we were done we were all worn out.  We had done 25 minutes at a brisk pace.  When we got home we did the lawn run, where we stand at each end of the yard and he basically runs for food.  Now he’s finally crashed and his day is over until his late-night snack.  Lisa will paint and I will finish writing to you.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

“Time is not measured by the passing

of years, but by what one does, what 

one feels, and what one achieves.”

~Jawaharlal Nehru

Tomorrow

Hi,

I suppose this is getting monotonous, but the weather was the same today as yesterday.  If you didn’t see that, it was ‘beautiful’, which is apparently not a word used very often to describe the weather.  Oh well.

This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Stayin’ Alive” by The Bee Gees.  Time for a ‘Middle Song’, since they didn’t have any ‘Zany’ tunes to choose from.  “I know your eyes in the morning sun, I feel you touch me in the pouring rain.  And the moment that you wander far from me, I wanna feel you in my arms again.  And you come to me on a summer breeze, keep me warm in your love then you softly leave.  And it’s me you need to show __ __ __ __ __.”  Hint:  Singer needing to know the depth of devotion.

Little Mr. JaiDee woke up at 4am today.  He was kind enough to wait until 5am to insist on having breakfast, but Lisa was awake and the day had begun.  Today he had a long nap, so we’re hoping we don’t get a repeat performance.

We did The Wanderer this morning and then talked to Lisa's dad, Joe.  As we get closer to the California visit, various activities are being confirmed.  We also had a philosophical discussion about the purpose of the human body.  The question was posed to Joe during a massage.  

Before lunch we drove up to ArtBridge so Lisa could register for the annual Artist Exhibition that opens in December.  There are some new exhibits in the galleries that we have not seen.  Hmm, so much art, so little time.

In our travels we pulled up next to the motorbike in the photo below.  This method of hauling produce probably started with humans, then donkeys or horses and now it’s motorbikes.  Those are bananas in the baskets.

The activities continue across the river at the fairgrounds.  We took JaiDee for his evening walk and even though it was early, there were a lot of young people going to the grounds.  Later, Cat and her boyfriend came over.  They had been to the Loy Krathong festival and brought Lisa one of her favorite Thai treats.  She told us that this year the food is more expensive because of an increase in booth rental costs.  When I asked her if it was loud, her answer was a very definite ‘Yes’.  We have not seen many lanterns in the sky, which is a good thing.  I remember in the past, that we’d find the remains of burnt out lanterns in our yard and on the roof.  In Chiang Mai, where they still have a separate Lantern Festival, they stopped all air traffic between certain hours in order to avoid problems with planes hitting the lanterns.  

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                     Peace,

                               Danny

“Never put off till tomorrow

what you can do the day after

tomorrow.”

~Mark Twain

Music

Hi,

Today we had more of the delicious weather I’ve been writing about.  It’s also nice that the air has been clear of any smoke.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song had many responses on the first day.  Today’s lyrics may help you remember:

“Well, now, I get low and I get high, and if I can’t get either, I really try.  Got the wings of heaven on my shoes.  I’m a dancin’ man and I just can’t lose…. whether you’re a brother or whether you’re a mother, you’re __ __, __ __.  Feel the city breakin’ and everybody shakin’ and we’re __ __, __ __.  Ah, ha, ha, ha, __ __, __ __”  Clue:  Major song in a major movie in 1977.

Monday night was the first night of Loy Krathong.  The moon was full and the sky was clear.  This made the viewing of fireworks perfect.  We only saw a few, but they really stuck out in the night.  We went to The Legend Resort for a buffet dinner package that included a meal, entertainment and a Krathong to set in the river.  We arrived at the appointed hour only to find out that dinner wouldn’t begin until 7pm.  Sometimes plans change and adjustments have to be made.  Natcha was watching JaiDee and Nichanan had a bad cough.  We needed to be home in time for Natcha to take the little one to the doctor.  We managed to have some pre-dinner snacks, stroll down to the river, have dinner and leave.  I did manage to get a few photos of the setting.  Maybe next year we’ll do like some friends and float some Krathongs in the pool.  Hmm.  While discussing the need to cut down on the pollution in the river, some of Cat’s friends suggested making Krathongs out of ice.  When placed in the river, they would float downstream and simply melt, leaving a few flowers in the water.  

Today’s photo is a traditional Thai music orchestra made up of ‘locals’, that plays various events.  There were two men in this group, the rest were women.  

This morning (Tuesday) we did our coffee at The Wanderer again.  Today we got a surprise visit from Joey, a Thai dog that was the runt of a litter that was rescued by the staff.  Kwan has been nursing him to health.  He has had Mercy as a big sister/guide, but broke his leg a few months ago.  He recently got his cast removed and is ready for action.  He apparently snuck out of the house and came down to the coffee area.  JaiDee immediately wanted to know this new animal.  They both touched noses and wanted to play, but Joey’s not supposed to do that yet.  Kwan showed up just in time and held on to him.  I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of him in the days to come.

Tonight Natcha and Gong and some family members are having a little Loy Krathong party in the back yard.  It’s nice for them to be able to celebrate without dealing with the crowds and noise at the river.  

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                    Peace,

                              Danny

“One good thing about music,

when it hits you feel no pain.”

~Bob Marley

Joy

Hi,

The weather in Chiang Rai wonderful.  It’s been warm, but not stifling.  The nights and mornings are cool and refreshing.  

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers.  This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ tune is one I’ve used in the past.  You said it was easy then and it’s still easy now.  “Well, you can tell by the way I use my walk, I’m a woman’s man: not time to talk.  Music loud and women warm, I’ve been kicked around since I was born.  And now it’s all right.  It’s OK.  And you may look the other way.  We can try to understand, The New York Times’ effect on man.  Whether you’re a brother or whether you’re a mother, you’re __ __, __ __…”  Hint:  Siblings from ‘down under’ singing about surviving.

Saturday morning we took JaiDee to The Wanderer in an effort to get him tired before going to a party in the early afternoon.  He was his usual charming self, and showed no signs of tiring.  After the coffee and ‘he’s so cute’, I went shopping for some food items for the party and we were off to the country.  Our friend Caty along with her twins and a family of 7 live in a big house near the river.  We’ve been there many times, but the countryside always looks different, usually due to new crops, fuller trees, or changes in the various villages we drive through to get there.  There are also some things that don’t change, like the sacred tree just before the house.  The big, beautiful tree sits right in the middle of the road, so the road spilts and goes around the tree.  What a concept.  Entering the house, the first thing one notices is all the shoes.  Shoes of those who live there and those who are visiting.

The population of the party was mostly kids.  It was the biggest gathering of kids that JaiDee has ever encountered.  He did pretty well, considering.  A few times he’d get settled down and then one of the kids would come over, or bring a friend to see the puppy and he would be ‘on’ again.  We had a good time visiting, but we couldn’t stay for the duration.  As soon as we started home, puppy put his head down and crashed.  

Sunday morning we went to Chivit for coffee and ice.  Then I went to my morning meeting.  We had expected to take JaiDee with us to The Wanderer for lunch, but we got a break from a willing sitter.  Now I know what parents of little ones feel like when this happens.  Relaxing lunch by ourselves, smiles all around.

The river bank was a village by Sunday evening, in preparation for Monday’s Loy Krathong Festival.  Tents, temporary food stalls and vendors of treats had filled in the land that was bare a few days ago.  There was a dull roar coming from the area when we took JaiDee for his evening walk.  When we got home the music started and that familiar, dull thump of the sound-system became the background of our lives.  It’s not as loud as when we’re living upstairs, but we hear it.  Open the bedroom door into the hallway and you realize there’s a band in the house (555).  A new twist this year is the addition of sheet-metal temporary ‘Dance Music’ venue near the entrance where we go for our walks.  That accounts for the clashing sounds we’ve been hearing.  Rock on.  This year the government has asked that the paper lanterns that typically fill the skies not be used.  Chiang Rai has a lot more airplane flights than it used to and it becomes a problem for pilots.  

Here’s a photo of JaiDee and me chillin’ by the side of the pool.  This is his favorite thing to do.  Once seated, he slowly backs into you for more contact.  If you stop petting, he reminds you of your duties.

I’ll fill you in on our Monday tomorrow.  

Have a Great Week.

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

“The noblest pleasure is the

joy of understanding.”

~Leonardo da Vinci

Friday Funnies

Hi,

Today was a great weather day.  It was cooler, as in low 80’s, and the overnight clouds brought showers that eventually went away as the day progressed.  It was just right for an evening of jazz.

The ‘Zany Day’ song was “Use Me” by Bill Withers.  ‘Old School Friday’ is next and I think you know this one:

“Sometimes in our lives, we all have pain, we all have sorrow.  But, if we are wise, we know that there’s always tomorrow.  __ __ __ when you’re not strong, I’ll be your friend, I’ll help you carry on.  For it won’t be long ’til I’m gonna need somebody to __ __.”  Hint:  This tune was released in 1972 and offers support.

Our day began in typical fashion.  Rise at 4:50am, feed dog, feed humans, take dog out, bring dog in, calm dog down, take a nap.  Today he had a shower, which he hates, but tolerates.  It was showering this morning outside and I’m sure he wondered why he couldn’t just go outside and play.  A little later we all went to The Wanderer for the usual.  Mercy came to out table but JaiDee was preoccupied with his ice and ignored her.  With that, she left.  

This afternoon we all took a long nap and then we began getting ready for the big evening.  The music at Chivit Thamma Da was scheduled to start at 5pm so we decided to get there early so we could park close.  That proved to be the right thing to do.  We had reserved a table for 3, half-way back from the stage and it was a perfect position.  As we made our way to the lawn by the river, all the staff were asking why we hadn’t brought JaiDee.  (555), seriously?  The music started about 5:30 with half the band.  It was a great way to start.  The sun was about to set, the guests were slowly arriving and the trio of talented musicians was doing a beautiful job.  Imagine a guitarist who sang the lead vocals along with a trumpet player and a saxophone and you had a mellow trio that was very creative.  We ordered blended fruit drinks at first and just listened to the music.  We ordered dinner just before the crowd, so we didn’t have a long wait.  When the rest of the band joined the trio there was another singer, a drummer and a bass player.  The trumpet player also doubled on electric piano.  Basically, it was like a Smooth Jazz concert, featuring lots of standards and some pop songs done in a jazz fashion.  

Here we are before the show began.

When we got home, the music from across the river was thumping very loud.  It’s not supposed to start until tomorrow, so I guess they were just testing the limits of the system.  Hmm.

Tomorrow we’re going to an early Thanksgiving dinner at the home of our friend Caty and her twins.  We’ll be taking JaiDee to this and it will be his first ‘party’.  It will also be his first ride in the country.  

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

                          Peace,

                                    Danny