tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18382021440371481812024-03-12T21:57:53.407-07:00Adventures In ThailandGratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.comBlogger3534125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-89711946278187538262021-03-05T06:58:00.002-08:002021-03-05T06:58:06.607-08:00Friday Funnies<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I am having problems posting photos into the Blogger program. I'll keep working on it and repost with the photos sometime this weekend, I hope. Thanks.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The overnight temps seem to be warming, making the possibility of a warmer pool a reality. Now all we need is cleaner air to breath during the exertion. Yeah, life is hard sometimes (555).</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Honeysuckle Rose”, written by Fats Waller and Andy Razaf in 1929. Here is a clip of Ella Fitzgerald singing with Count Bassie and friends in ’79. The vocal begins at about 1:44, it’s wonderful stuff.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PMB-wgHM4Y">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PMB-wgHM4Y</a> Now, time for ‘Old School Friday’: “Tonight you’re mine completely. You give you love so sweetly. Tonight the light of love is in your eyes. But __ __ __ __ __?” Hint: This was a major hit by an R&B ‘Girl Group’ before anyone knew about the writer, who also had a hit with it. It’s asking: ‘Is this a one night thing?’ Easy.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning we went back to our old favorite, The Wanderer, with JaiDee. As we entered the main patio we were greeted by Mercy, who had trouble getting JaiDee’s attention. He was too focused on his girlfriend, Khwan. Mercy and I howled a bit and I think JaiDee acknowledged her before we went to our table. The air in the woods seemed much cleaner smelling than the air at home when we returned. Maybe we need to spend more time in the woods. Maybe they need to stop lighting fires.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today, Natcha had to go to Mae Lao on business so we had to get our own lunch. Pitiful, I know. When it got close to lunch time, Lisa called Sabroso and ordered our new favorite: Chimichangas. Lunch was a big success (555). </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our air quality was actually better today. The level is called ‘Moderate’ during the day. This evening it went back to ‘Unhealthy’. We were hoping the clouds might bring a cleansing rain, but the winds blew them away. Tomorrow’s another day. It could be better.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Tomorrow we’ll have a Graduation dinner with Cat and Noom. We’re really quite proud of her and how she stayed consistent in her studies through the five years of university life. It wasn’t all easy, but she did what was necessary. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The last photo of the week is JaiDee giving us a serious ‘I.D. Card’ pose. Natcha caught a great moment here.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmfRU1OZFmlY5xVg45DQwb3z7dXcNRH0IQZEpTn5p0WDrVqHrVOTjhkOHSLpQAS7IQqXK1bGJd64Namoz_T08HuTCgV0_tGTEEg4hXSXnU1k8gM4zBGQI9hVAP7sbRPqmSstTffRL5kc/s529/JaiDee%252BBlue%2527s+Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmfRU1OZFmlY5xVg45DQwb3z7dXcNRH0IQZEpTn5p0WDrVqHrVOTjhkOHSLpQAS7IQqXK1bGJd64Namoz_T08HuTCgV0_tGTEEg4hXSXnU1k8gM4zBGQI9hVAP7sbRPqmSstTffRL5kc/s320/JaiDee%252BBlue%2527s+Tree.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The health agencies here keep track of two separate numbers when counting the covid cases. One number is for those cases that were generated from within the local community, the other is what comes in with new arrivals. This way they can better track the progress being made in controlling an outbreak. They are stating that they are feeling confident, whatever that means. The numbers are going down slowly. There is also an increase in the pressure to reopen the country to travelers. Caution and patience still seem to be winning the real battle.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Time for the ‘Funnies’.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcp79TQjU58vi0rKZHAWeSqIpxTG4HTvl7Njwlrmat9DyCYT9_a5uhVdJXmmBUqxG1wbqImiI_blOEhbwcAsAq9DFlOQWVnYZw86GijDf1MVbew5jG6slJg_nx_iizZ900cpNTVsqZtEU/s724/Stay%2540Home+Festival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="724" data-original-width="567" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcp79TQjU58vi0rKZHAWeSqIpxTG4HTvl7Njwlrmat9DyCYT9_a5uhVdJXmmBUqxG1wbqImiI_blOEhbwcAsAq9DFlOQWVnYZw86GijDf1MVbew5jG6slJg_nx_iizZ900cpNTVsqZtEU/s320/Stay%2540Home+Festival.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-82714878999929955692021-03-04T06:18:00.002-08:002021-03-04T06:18:08.779-08:00Enemy<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weather is staying mostly the same as far as the temperatures go. The big ‘weather’ issue is the pollution from burning crop waste, that seems to be treated like it’s something necessary; it’s not. The effects of the ‘smog’ are starting to be seen and felt. The clouds today didn’t help the matter, but only held the bad air in place.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">A couple of readers named the ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune. This song was first introduced in ‘Load of Coal’, a musical revue. “Don’t buy sugar, you just have to touch my cup, you’re my sugar, it’s so sweet when you stir it up. When I’m taking sips from your tasty lips, seems like the honey fairly drips. You’re confection, goodness knows, __ __.” Clue: The title is a name, combining a sweet tasting plant and a sweetheart.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning we took JaiDee to Polar Coffee Shop and Bakery for a visit with John. It was his first time going there and he was very cool. After the usual sniff around the grounds, he settled down at the table. Even his greeting with John was a lot less boisterous than in the past. We were fortunate to get the one table that was in the shade. These visits seem to average about one and a half hours when we get together and the time just flies by. JaiDee is the timekeeper. When he starts getting restless, it’s close to time to go. This morning we took a large Kong toy stuffed with frozen treats with us and that kept him occupied for at least 20 minutes, and it’s much healthier than a rawhide bone. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This was to be the day we got our main air/con serviced. We made the usual preparations and relocated in the guest room. When the time passed and they hadn’t shown, Lisa called the service manager and we were given a new time. That time elapsed and we changed it to next week. It brought back memories, hanging out downstairs with JaiDee and now TongTong, trying to keep them busy and him off the bed. For some reason, he thought he should be able to stand up with his front paws on the bed, like a person. Maybe since he gets to do this at the kitchen sink when Nitchanan goes to school, he thinks it’s a thing.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo is from the ‘Natcha Collection’. Both dogs posing for a portrait.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRSIwpdgIUOQoTncCuZlDEy_OfcMbF-UvPGwcpEw_WzTJIkbqhSV-8C3arBsIbQAHouC_DcE1KbvDthg6jO60IYMaGPYzFSQmyUwIW9sqebkotGTMP0oMOs9fR-NKojj7_pjA528j-qnU/s529/JaiDee%253ATong+Pose+Natcha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRSIwpdgIUOQoTncCuZlDEy_OfcMbF-UvPGwcpEw_WzTJIkbqhSV-8C3arBsIbQAHouC_DcE1KbvDthg6jO60IYMaGPYzFSQmyUwIW9sqebkotGTMP0oMOs9fR-NKojj7_pjA528j-qnU/s320/JaiDee%253ATong+Pose+Natcha.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This evening, while walking around the outside of the house, JaiDee caught up to me and decided to walk along the deck of the pool. Somehow, he got to close to the edge and fell in. He does not like the pool, so he started scrambling, trying to get out. He was just this side of panic when he put his front legs on the deck and gave me a look of desperation. I reached down and pulled him enough so he could get a hind leg up. He took off at first, then calmed down. Lisa washed him off and he zoomed around the yard. Later, he returned to the deck and walked along, making mental notes of what went wrong. Now the question is, does he want to try swimming? More will be revealed.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Thrilling Thursday.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“It is certain, in any case, that ignorance,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">allied with power, is the most ferocious</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">enemy justice can have.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~James Baldwin</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-6607462050945999532021-03-03T06:51:00.000-08:002021-03-03T06:51:01.116-08:00Comeback<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The sky was hazier today than yesterday. The hill to the west is getting more ‘vague’ every day. I guess by the weekend it will have disappeared. There is also a forecast for possible rain later this week, so there is hope. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Sunny” by Bobby Hebb. It’s time for another dose of ‘Jazzy Wednesday’.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Ev’ry honeybee fills with jealousy when they see you out with me. I don’t blame them, goodness knows, __ __. When you’re passin’ by, flowers drop and sigh and I know the reason why. You’re much sweeter goodness knows, __ __.” Hint: The title could be a name, or a flower, or a person. The music was written (1929) by a prolific ‘stride’ style piano player and the lyrics are by a collaborator on several hits. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our morning adventure was an early trip to Bangkok Hospital for Lisa to have blood tests. Everything is great and her doctors are very happy. There were specific things that improved and that’s cause for big smiles. She had to fast overnight, which meant she was very hungry when we left the hospital. We ended up coming home and relaxing before lunch.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">While we were gone, Natcha took the dogs out for their morning exercise and ended up doing a photo shoot. I’ll be posting photos of dogs for a while. Here’s JaiDee shaking a paw.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-ImZyLLDvJx6X00nAHbU5z0nb-KmJq8DuzThZb_yu-K1vwmDQrYUam3oL03C8W0zrhKiSV7-4XQ_e3fRQDLSmESjKTD7dyWnj41HSGoP07X_tNeQ2nXVEP7TYF4-6l09Eh-PP5vyN0Q/s567/JaiDee+Natcha+Hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-ImZyLLDvJx6X00nAHbU5z0nb-KmJq8DuzThZb_yu-K1vwmDQrYUam3oL03C8W0zrhKiSV7-4XQ_e3fRQDLSmESjKTD7dyWnj41HSGoP07X_tNeQ2nXVEP7TYF4-6l09Eh-PP5vyN0Q/s320/JaiDee+Natcha+Hand.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This afternoon, after our nap, we went to ArtBridge to pick up Lisa’s artwork from the last exhibit, and leave a piece for the next exhibit. We took JaiDee along with us for the ride. On the way home we stopped at Browney Pet World for treats and vitamins. JaiDee was on his best behavior and had fun sniffing the lower shelves of treats. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I spoke with a friend of mine in Chiang Mai and he said the air there is getting bad. In past years, he would fly down to Hua Hin, a beach town we went to a few years ago. This year it’s hard to ‘escape’ because of the virus. It’s going to be a different kind of lock-down for some folks. We will do what we did last year. Masks and air filters and staying inside. Not so fun, but it works.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Feels like a Wacky Wednesday. Don’t forget to wear your mask, even if you got the shot. Patience wins.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“I’m always making a comeback</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">but nobody ever tells me where</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I’ve been.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Billie Holiday</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-36574147753863668342021-03-02T06:34:00.005-08:002021-03-02T06:34:41.507-08:00Mad<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weather conversation around our house is about the air quality, or lack thereof. It’s different than the air when the neighbors burn their stinky trash. This smoke is the stuff that paints the horizon with browns and oranges. It’s March and therefore, we must burn the crop residue. Not true, but traditional. Hmm.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Easy Monday’ song is one we’ve been puzzled by before. Many of you knew it then, a few now. Here’s more:</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“__, thank you for the sunshine bouquet. __, thank you for the love you’ve brought my way. You gave to me your all and all, now I feel ten feet tall. __, one so true, I love you.” Clue: The title relates to the thing that shines during the day. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today was our ‘At Home’ day. The routine of the Big Brown House was only altered when Cat came over this afternoon after school. She is at the end, the five year journey is basically over. She just has to finish out her internship at the school (next month) and she’s done. She is so happy. Saturday we will take Cat and Noom to Sizzler for dinner to celebrate her graduation. When she first arrived, JaiDee went into his usual puppy freak-out, and TongTong scolded him by barking at him for barking at Cat. Very interesting. Once the dust settled, the kitchen was filled with several conversations at once. Nitchanan was talking to Cat, Natcha was talking to Cat, Cat was talking to Nitchanan and we were trying to jump in from time-to-time. Home sweet home.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The photo for today was taken the last time we were at Chivit Thamma Da. The table next to us was being prepared for a special reservation and the napkins caught my eye. So that’s why some places use starched napkins, to make origami birds and stuff. Personally, I hate the way they feel on my mouth.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOsqn_mdEqgHyjBj6QrMVYDbOI8WNahxyHersp8lLsLdLMVDoJ76Sbgy6icQe6QY6e5MUST6MS4T7YyDIfgS-TCfkubdHf7WH8ArVC3_uiomowP9v4Ua2LIAd9dFDTHhvuiScHJbHQt0/s567/Chivit+Napkin+Bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="567" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqOsqn_mdEqgHyjBj6QrMVYDbOI8WNahxyHersp8lLsLdLMVDoJ76Sbgy6icQe6QY6e5MUST6MS4T7YyDIfgS-TCfkubdHf7WH8ArVC3_uiomowP9v4Ua2LIAd9dFDTHhvuiScHJbHQt0/s320/Chivit+Napkin+Bird.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">A few days ago Nitchanan decided that she was going to go swimming even though the water was very cold. She would go in, scream, get out, then go back in. Today was day three of the swimming saga and she appears to be used to the cold water. She is really into swimming, with the aid of her floatation harness. She dives off the second step and swims in her style. So much energy, it’s just amazing. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The reported virus cases gets lower each day in Thailand. Today, only 42 reported. Feeling hopeful.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Happy Tuesday.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“I have walked into the palaces of</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">kings and queens and into the houses</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">of presidents. And much more. But</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I could not walk into a hotel in America</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">and get a cup of coffee, and that made me mad.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Josephine Baker </div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-39055799308021584802021-03-01T06:30:00.002-08:002021-03-01T06:30:17.383-08:00Blues<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our weekend weather was a little different. We has some cloudy, cool mornings, but they didn’t last. The days ended up being in the 90+ neighborhood. Sadly, today we had unhealthy air. They’re at it again.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “I’m All Shook Up” by Elvis Presley. Now, a really easy ‘Easy Monday’ song for you:</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“__, yesterday my life was filled with rain. __, you smiled at me and really eased the pain. Now the dark days are done, and the bright days are here, my __ one shines so sincere. __, one so true, I love you.” Hint: The title is a name that is also a weather condition. It’s from the ’60’s.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Saturday morning we met Caty and her girls at The Wanderer for lunch. The twins (Taeyo and Jaiya) plus their half sister (NamKing) presented me with a birthday card that Taeyo made, and a Sor-Au (pronounced Saw). It’s a two-stringed instrument played with a bow, in a vertical position. The girls wandered off soon after the ‘presentation’ and returned to give their food orders. They found a nearby table and made that their base of operation. It was interesting, they created the ‘kids table’ on their own. That left us older people to talk about things like ‘the times’, including all the ‘what ifs’ of possible international travel in the future, etc. Every now and then one of the girls would pop over and bring along some witty, silly something that would crack us up. All in all, it was a delightful outing.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">In the afternoon, Eric came over to see the tree he had installed several years ago in memory of Blue. He was surprised at how well it’s doing. He brought along a bouquet of flowers that liven up the dining room table. We went out in the front yard and he took some photos of us with the tree. Then we went into the back and enjoyed the shade, some cold water and the green space. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Sunday morning JaiDee got a bath. It’s his least favorite thing to do, but he’s getting more and more tolerant as time goes by. You can see in this photo, that he’s not going to be a ‘Big Dog’, which is fine with us. The kid is all muscle.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsA-Owio4y2jU70tdOY9z4NjufBr8Sxe5w17jTDZTR3xGcXYB3DTcCsAQW2tLF1FFVEqIxt3d1z4hUiqZ08dNtQP0ZJTWu6dQmOmaCfa9UkKYZ5kHCzJ5yEY50xwG_ZT_WLaJerIi8Buk/s418/JaiDee+Wet+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="379" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsA-Owio4y2jU70tdOY9z4NjufBr8Sxe5w17jTDZTR3xGcXYB3DTcCsAQW2tLF1FFVEqIxt3d1z4hUiqZ08dNtQP0ZJTWu6dQmOmaCfa9UkKYZ5kHCzJ5yEY50xwG_ZT_WLaJerIi8Buk/s320/JaiDee+Wet+1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We went to the Talat (market) for some around the house things and on the way in, one has to pass several fabric stores. We’ve done pretty good at resisting many meters of material, but Sunday we saw a pattern that screamed ‘Bedspread’, so we bought some. Today we took it to Khun Orn, with measurements. She’ll call when it’s finished and we’ll have another motif for the room. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Wonderful Week.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“I merely took the energy it takes to pout </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">and wrote some blues."</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Duke Ellington</div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-6669391440165313262021-02-26T05:59:00.006-08:002021-02-26T05:59:44.050-08:00Friday Funnies<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weather today started off cooler than yesterday morning, which led us to believe that something had shifted. All was not lost, it got hot right on schedule. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Night and Day”, written by Cole Porter, first sung by Fred Astaire and made famous by Frank Sinatra. So, time for an ‘Old School Friday’ song that’s not as old as the last tune, but still old.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Uh, well, a-bless my soul what’s wrong with me? I’m itching like a man on a fuzzy tree. My friends say I’m actin’ wild as a bug. I’m in love. __ __ __ __. Mm, ooh, yeah, yeah.” Hint: It’s from 1957. Think sideburns, bell bottoms, and someone trembling with love.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today was Makha Bucha Day. It commemorates a time in Buddhist history when 1,250 Buddhists spontaneously came together to pay tribute to the Buddha. It has become a festival for the community to reaffirm their commitment to Buddhism. Schools were closed and it is a widely celebrated holiday. We went to the mall when it opened, to get a jump on the crowd. We had a short list of things to get and got all but one thing. While we were in Top’s Market we saw our friend Eric and made a date for him to come over and see the tree he donated in Blue’s memory. He hasn’t seen it in quite a long time. As we were leaving the mall I noticed several monks being escorted into the mall. It was a day for folks to make merit and possibly take a monk to lunch or shop for essentials. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The number of Covid cases in Thailand is going down every day. This means that the testing and tracing are having the desired effect. Chiang Rai is still free of the virus, but still being very careful. As soon as the vaccines get circulated in the problem areas, we should see a major improvement.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Tomorrow we are meeting our friend Caty and her twins at The Wanderer for what will either be late coffee or early lunch, or both (555). We’ve been trying to schedule something since my birthday. It’s always fun to hang with the twins, who are evolving into their own styles. So cool to watch kids express themselves. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo is the last of the bunch from Rai Mae Farluang. I don’t know much about this giant tree, except that it’s very big and stately.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzW9Eid_ZESoG4Z5cxcY98f1H3eFsba91JZyo3ib7MVlrmcHO8knOZCeGLTS96MClaxrEoKfCRd0_wxcRfVL4A7IXYRsWzv5VIwkAl13CRZzsKv93e8Wn76mx-RhbfQfaTw1qXWTcDVE/s454/BigTree+Rai+Mae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="454" data-original-width="340" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzW9Eid_ZESoG4Z5cxcY98f1H3eFsba91JZyo3ib7MVlrmcHO8knOZCeGLTS96MClaxrEoKfCRd0_wxcRfVL4A7IXYRsWzv5VIwkAl13CRZzsKv93e8Wn76mx-RhbfQfaTw1qXWTcDVE/s320/BigTree+Rai+Mae.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Time for the ‘Funnies’.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjx3WHKNReS5co8Wgyc3PXOY6ltZPSPdiWifC2fINZ-nfAR53e20IR0nDN7wYfB-tAoCGCekyL5kHsSBw5dw7toWylUjkr6AvGOu2PBaXURUm5T-6ddvWNmEnTZcW135xLR12XMc0zvo/s500/Dogs+%2526+Pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUjx3WHKNReS5co8Wgyc3PXOY6ltZPSPdiWifC2fINZ-nfAR53e20IR0nDN7wYfB-tAoCGCekyL5kHsSBw5dw7toWylUjkr6AvGOu2PBaXURUm5T-6ddvWNmEnTZcW135xLR12XMc0zvo/s320/Dogs+%2526+Pizza.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-71642038073189908062021-02-25T06:02:00.003-08:002021-02-25T06:02:26.408-08:00Hair<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We’re in that ‘feels like summer’ weather, with highs in the mid 90’s, and the pool getting warmer every day. Look out, it’s almost time to inflate the toys and the pink swan (555).</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune got a lot of responses, meaning you know more old stuff than you thought. Verse two:</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“__ __ __, why is it so, that this longin’ for you follows wherever I go? In the roarin’ traffic’s boom, in the silence of my lonely room. I think of you __ __ __.” Clue: It was written in ’32 by a very famous writer. The first recording was by a tap dancer and the lyrics let us know that love can blur time.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This was the day I heard the results of my audio hearing test. With all of the tests and investigations into parts of my health, I am learning to turn off the ‘what if’ channel and listen to ‘radio wait and see’. We went to The Wanderer for coffee and roti and then cruised up to Bangkok Hospital for a 10am appointment. The doctor looked at the graph and it’s squiggly lines that meant nothing to me. She smiled and told me that my hearing was actually good for someone my age. Hmm, there was that phrase again. I guess it’s time to start believing them. She kept telling me that there was nothing unusual going on. She gave a few tips on hearing someone behind me, and also mentioned not going to ‘pubs’ where they play loud music. We assured her that we didn’t do that anyway. When we left, I felt like I was 15 pounds lighter, had a spring in my step, blah, blah, blah. Life is good.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This afternoon we were hanging out before dinner. JaiDee and Nitchanan were playing. She runs and he chases. At one point, he grabbed his ball as he chased her down the hall. Today’s photo was taken during a rest period.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgqjQDbya0ZBINKeYfKOnf7Tsnpg5pTjDkeABqDbeNaO633PbOGRrvKaRZyuwuz9FYHLQKEkDTJst8v0rBnN5ADeoUZjadk_xvsbL3gp4mcZJ2pef0XYU5twuWmPSqbqtRvKPq0mM9Ec/s567/JaiDee+%2526+Nitchanan+Ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="567" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgqjQDbya0ZBINKeYfKOnf7Tsnpg5pTjDkeABqDbeNaO633PbOGRrvKaRZyuwuz9FYHLQKEkDTJst8v0rBnN5ADeoUZjadk_xvsbL3gp4mcZJ2pef0XYU5twuWmPSqbqtRvKPq0mM9Ec/s320/JaiDee+%2526+Nitchanan+Ball.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">If you look closely, you can see TongTong under the table. She is becoming a wonderful member of the family. She has been going on our evening walks around the outside of the house. It started with her lasting a few times around, and now she does the whole 40 minutes, with a few rest breaks. She is also learning to walk on a leash. It’s interesting to watch her as she tries to work with us. When she gets more confident on the leash we might be able to begin some socialization away from the house. I have a feeling that she’d love to go for car rides and visit places like The Wanderer. Time will tell.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Thrilling Thursday. Please continue to be careful.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Prejudice is like a hair across your cheek.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">You can’t see it, you can’t find it with your fingers,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">but you keep brushing at it because the feel of it</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">is irritating.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Marian Anderson</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-69922420704753677492021-02-24T06:25:00.000-08:002021-02-24T06:25:01.339-08:00Change<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our heatwave continues. Today we got to 95°, tomorrow the forecast is for 93°. This afternoon the pool was 80. That feels alright to the fingers, but putting the whole body in it is another thing.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “(They Long To Be) Close To You” by The Carpenters. I’m hoping this week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune is also easy. “__ __ __ you are the one. Only you ‘neath the moon or under the sun. Whether near to me or far, it’s no matter, darling, where you are. I think of you __ __ __.” Hint: The two major words of the title dwell within 24 hours. This is another standard that has lots of room for improvisation.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning JaiDee got to go on a little excursion to The Wanderer. Things were pretty normal as we got settled at our table. Then Khun Khwan came to the table and JaiDee couldn’t contain himself. In an effort to get close to her, his leash hit his bowl of ice and spilled it all over the floor. He didn’t seem to care at all. Such is love. Since we were outside, we just pushed the ice into the flower bed and got another bowl of ice. As Lisa explains it, when he loves somebody, he really loves them. After our coffee/ice stop, we went into town to drop off some sewing. This gave JaiDee a nice sight-seeing trip. Near the end, we know it’s been effective when he stretches out on the back seat. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The familiar sound of a dump truck was heard at a lot behind us and down the road. Another neighbor in the making. We knew the city would eventually come out to ‘meet’ us in what was once the ‘country’. Last night, the rock band that seems to live across the road in back, played some music. They didn’t start until about 10:30pm and ended around 11:30. I will say, they played at a lower level than when it’s a weekend party. If only the birds could be as respectful (555). There is another sound that I finally heard last night, and it’s a bird. It doesn’t sound like a bird, more like a percussion instrument. What’s unusual is that it seems to be so active at night. Most of the other birds are asleep in the trees, but this one and the loud bird are ‘night owls’. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Thailand got their first shipment of vaccines yesterday. The doses will go to the provinces that are having the highest numbers of cases in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. Part of the shipment is the Sinovac from China and part is Astro-Zeneca. It will be a while before we will see the possibility of getting the shots, but we’re not at risk in Chiang Rai. The number of daily cases in the country have been getting lower. Progress is being made and that's a good thing.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photos are from the Saturday photo exhibit opening at Rai Mae Farluang. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg59-JN8dBgRqLSzl8pQvn_ureO_FX4hrW4rWhWX9XLKAWli9OUnTLYQI3S5vN1AM0PdyG2JbPjSiUtinmGxNP1BTkUErBI-t6hOPHKWC9aD52oALC6D3gdBMaYV3gMJ3rOLy3LBTgQ5hY/s529/Bowl+of+Orchids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg59-JN8dBgRqLSzl8pQvn_ureO_FX4hrW4rWhWX9XLKAWli9OUnTLYQI3S5vN1AM0PdyG2JbPjSiUtinmGxNP1BTkUErBI-t6hOPHKWC9aD52oALC6D3gdBMaYV3gMJ3rOLy3LBTgQ5hY/s320/Bowl+of+Orchids.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4UVvwIjS6LZkCh4-IM4LFZIMtoSt9IxzQzLmdo86vVMxp2Zgz-AvxwYlog-ooeu-A7B7eONxOYc-vaYX6_vGdGFMxYJyAuzDgq9XbFMAjX0fHtsxciLqUtYYJgPy9dCHclEgFfz5nd8/s640/Bowl+of+Orchids+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv4UVvwIjS6LZkCh4-IM4LFZIMtoSt9IxzQzLmdo86vVMxp2Zgz-AvxwYlog-ooeu-A7B7eONxOYc-vaYX6_vGdGFMxYJyAuzDgq9XbFMAjX0fHtsxciLqUtYYJgPy9dCHclEgFfz5nd8/s320/Bowl+of+Orchids+2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">It feels like a Wacky Wednesday.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">"I wouldn't change a single thing, because one change</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> alters every moment that follows it."</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Sidney Poitier </div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-1408986082121791342021-02-23T06:27:00.001-08:002021-02-23T06:27:24.168-08:00Good<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Well, it got a little warmer today. I think we reached 90°F. Not bragging, just wanted you to know that we’re suffering over here. Send ice, snow, whatever you can spare.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Easy Monday’ song for this week has been sung by hundreds of singers all over the world. Says what can’t be said by many. “Why do stars fall down from the sky, every time you walk by? Just like me, they long to be __ __ __.” Clue: This hit was first recorded by a brother and sister act. It should have been looping in your head by now (555). </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today was our ‘At Home’ day. We talked to Joe in Palo Alto, California and caught up on the happenings in his life. JaiDee came upstairs so we turned the computer around so Joe could see him. Joe is a big fan of the dogs and got a kick out of JaiDee being affectionate with Lisa. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">There are two big flowering trees on the west side of our house and they are both blooming. Every morning and evening the scent from the two trees fills the yard with a very intoxicating smell. It makes me feel like just sitting down and enjoying it until it’s gone. One of the trees had lower branches that we could pick flowers from, until a gardener trimmed it. We used to collect them and brings them to breakfast and Blue would take them to his room. Wow, talk about a sweet memory. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Since we’re on the topic of trees, here is a photo of a tree at Rai Mae Farluang that blows my mind. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik1cZKw0Q0lcPTXO1OnUT38duP2GymjkqXin4c-5NodTJ4edgB1g3kM3LmnNiYmSuXU3qaX097VwfJoDURiJ-38m1gd1ROgHMYUVmTctNqzwjMaQxFsc4VyjNIFTqMJ-lzbRAU16cJjmQ/s490/Big+Tree+Rai+Mae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="369" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik1cZKw0Q0lcPTXO1OnUT38duP2GymjkqXin4c-5NodTJ4edgB1g3kM3LmnNiYmSuXU3qaX097VwfJoDURiJ-38m1gd1ROgHMYUVmTctNqzwjMaQxFsc4VyjNIFTqMJ-lzbRAU16cJjmQ/s320/Big+Tree+Rai+Mae.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">There are many birds that live in our yard. There is one who has been here a long time, but has recently become very vocal. When I say vocal, he sings his simple song at a volume and with such repetition that our only recourse is to close the windows. There are a few more in the neighborhood, but their calls are far enough away that it’s not a problem. I wish he’d to visit his friends in the trees in the distance. Living in the Wild Kingdom is not always paradise (555).</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Happy Tuesday.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Find the good. It’s all around you. Find it, showcase it,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">and you’ll start believing in it.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Jesse Owens</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-8571725373249530642021-02-22T06:42:00.002-08:002021-02-22T06:42:21.268-08:00History<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">If the weather keeps up like this, we may be swimming in another month (555). We still have nights in the mid 60’s, so the water cools at night, but I’m hopeful.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Earth Angel” by The Penguins. ‘Easy Monday’ will be easy this week, I swear. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Why do birds suddenly appear every time you are near? Just like me, they long to be __ __ __.” Hint: It’s about proximity. So easy.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Saturday morning we went to Chivit Thamma Da and hung out with our friend Lisa and her dad Edwin. One of the things I like about our get togethers is knowledge Edwin has about the history of Chiang Rai. He knows a lot about a lot of people and their contributions to the ‘town’. We mentioned the event that we were going to in the late afternoon and learned more about Rai Mae Farluang than we’d heard in years. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We were told that the evening event was a photo exhibition. It was so much more than that. The artist was a man who has worked at Doi Tung Gardens for 50 years, taking photos and working with flowers and trees. The presentation before we went into the gallery was a tribute to him as well as Doi Tung, which was started by The Princess Mother (mother of the late King Rama 9). We had a chance to visit the gardens in 2007 and it is spectacular. After a series of short speeches that we didn’t understand, we went into the gallery to view the collection of photos taken through the years. On the central lawn, there were two young women performing traditional Thai dance. They were some of the best we’ve seen. As the crowd in the gallery grew, we went back to the original area and enjoyed the surroundings. We sat with our friends Somluk and Tamako during the dining portion of the evening. The producer of the event was very careful to have good spacing during the presentation and dining. We left and had a bite to eat at Sabroso Mexican Restaurant.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMO9jTSnQEKS4Kx_-F1HU8axIJKXwbwrX9hAMqp_gj1rioOxEGEJsP_F3jU4E2HD5uox8vAA2FYdjBNBXj6UM9gzNRIwSquKflQCz2rXNNOOESRtJVXt0ftIz2kWd0UMKWOLSAbEEPUlk/s567/ThaiDance+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="567" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMO9jTSnQEKS4Kx_-F1HU8axIJKXwbwrX9hAMqp_gj1rioOxEGEJsP_F3jU4E2HD5uox8vAA2FYdjBNBXj6UM9gzNRIwSquKflQCz2rXNNOOESRtJVXt0ftIz2kWd0UMKWOLSAbEEPUlk/s320/ThaiDance+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Sunday was a mellow day. We went to The Wanderer with Cat and JaiDee for coffee and snacks. Cat is nearing the end of her 5th year of English Teacher studies and will be graduating some time next month. It’s a little unclear just when the diplomas will be given since there won’t be a ceremony. She will have to continue teaching until the school year is over in April, which makes it seem even longer. Her grade point average for the 5 years is 3.55 and we’re all pretty happy about that. While I was at the counter I saw Khun Khwan and she told me they saw us at Sabroso. They were out looking for two of their dogs, Mercy and Sally, who decided to go out on the town. It seems they went into the river for a swim and must have crossed the river, because they found them at the police station downtown. Mercy, the Husky, has been known to ‘Wander’, and Sally is very bold. I guess it’s time for tighter security.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning I got the audio test for my hearing. After coffee at Starbuck’s, it was just a matter of driving a block or so to the hearing center. I sat in the booth and tones were played into headphones. I pressed a button when I heard a tone. I will take the printout to the doctor at the hospital on Thursday for a determination. Hmm.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Great Week. Stay Safe and Be Happy</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Black history is American history.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Morgan Freeman</div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-72913236776313446432021-02-19T06:44:00.002-08:002021-02-19T06:44:28.461-08:00Friday Funnies<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The forecast actually said: “Your weather loop will continue for the next four days” (555), no it didn’t. But that’s what’s happening. The high will be 84 with a low of 63, for the next four days. Hmm.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “As Time Goes By” by Dooley Wilson from the film Casablanca. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d22CiKMPpaY">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d22CiKMPpaY</a> </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">‘Old School Friday’ is going back to it’s ‘roots’. This one is from my youth, so you know it’s old (555). “(Oh, oh, oh, oh, wah-ah-ah, oh, oh, oh, oh, __ __, __ __ will you be mine. My darling dear, love you all the time. I’m just a fool, a fool in love with you.” Hint: The singer is pledging his love for a planet-bound celestial being. Group named after a bird that wears a tux.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today we went back to a coffee place we haven’t been to in a long time. Polar is in the other direction from our usual travels, and has a messy entry road, but the ambience is great. We listened to the lady in the phone and her directions were good. We avoided a bunch of ‘town’ driving, it was mostly on the new freeway. It turned out that one of the staff used to work at Hungry Wolf and remembered us. This is good because her English is pretty good and that always helps. Besides having really good scones and chicken sausage, they play very cool music. We found out that we can take JaiDee and sit outside. He’s gonna love it.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">While we were having coffee, our friend Dr. Intorn answered a message about whether Bangkok Hospital had an ear, nose and throat person. They did, I pondered for a moment, and our next stop was BKK Hospital for a hearing check. I’ve been missing things, sounds, words, etc. so it’s time to find out why. The doctor was cool. She got right to work, asking a couple of questions and then looking into both of my ears. Then she mentioned that I was understanding what she had said to me, even while she had her mask on. This was a sign to her, that it wasn’t too bad. I need to get an audio test at another location and bring her the results. So, might be middle or inner ear issues. When she asked my age, she couldn’t believe it. Neither can I, but that’s another story (555). </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">While in the front yard this morning, Lisa captured the blooming of Blue’s tree. It’s been very busy this year.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcBEADqzL679_nQt8U8Mk8PTaiL3UWsckQ_C3RQMPwasq7LTFzosvm2Nq0-mDmLJ0L7in44XsMP0KRKe4ICgu9Nvy13p3vPrzhXvaOe1kftvXzpLH-gN1OL3wENR6fziPnnzai_nOWPgM/s510/Blue%2527s+Blossoms+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcBEADqzL679_nQt8U8Mk8PTaiL3UWsckQ_C3RQMPwasq7LTFzosvm2Nq0-mDmLJ0L7in44XsMP0KRKe4ICgu9Nvy13p3vPrzhXvaOe1kftvXzpLH-gN1OL3wENR6fziPnnzai_nOWPgM/s320/Blue%2527s+Blossoms+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Tomorrow we’re having coffee and conversation with our friend Lisa in the morning. In the late afternoon we’re going to a photo exhibit at Rai Mae Farluang, the big park/museum that’s all about trees and plants of the area. We’ll probably see some friends and hopefully it won’t be too crowded. If so, there’s plenty of open space to hang out in if necessary. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">In other news, most of you will remember The August Chronicles. Well, Mr. August aka DJ August earned a place on the Dean’s List for the fall of 2020. He’s majoring in Audio Engineering Technology. So proud.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We’re feeling very fortunate that most people are observing the ‘no burning’ law, so the air is nice, for the most part. South of us, in Chiang Mai, they’re having lots of fires on the hills and it’s affecting the air quality. Oh, and we had a little rain this morning (sprinkles). Life is good.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Time for the ‘Funnies’.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZkjWEDuuaPkGerUEvkzu7GgdNB2pLyX_Zwy4kUQkAR5xm2zJdmuxQ7ODSpyVJH6w9Shg1rfWREhMUGtDN-D0FJiUuuWjRJJUD41EFq6S9SPWrDdXedwX8o60ngCF3SN290jqjn8BXQ-Q/s420/mozart+joke.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZkjWEDuuaPkGerUEvkzu7GgdNB2pLyX_Zwy4kUQkAR5xm2zJdmuxQ7ODSpyVJH6w9Shg1rfWREhMUGtDN-D0FJiUuuWjRJJUD41EFq6S9SPWrDdXedwX8o60ngCF3SN290jqjn8BXQ-Q/s320/mozart+joke.jpeg" /></a></div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-36748489769773698012021-02-18T06:21:00.000-08:002021-02-18T06:21:07.834-08:00Service<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Weather: The loop continues. Our air is staying relatively clean and even though there was a 6% chance of rain in the forecast, it didn’t dump one bit (555).</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was written in 1931 and has been recorded by a long list of singers over the years. “And when two lovers woo, they still say ‘I love you’, on that you can rely. No matter what the future brings __ __ __ __.” Clue: It’s hard to leave a clue about a concept that would give away the title. Oh heck, play it again, Sam.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning we took JaiDee to The Wanderer for coffee and conversation with John. We have a new table we’ve been enjoying. It gives us a view of most of the traffic through the place, even though trees obscure the view of some tables. We’re usually alone, which helps with the distancing. It’s also easier to get the attention of the staff if we need something from the kitchen. Some tables require one to make a trip to the front counter. We talked about relatives that live in the cold, an alternate route to Chiang Mai, and what it feels like to get lost in a foreign country when you can’t read the road signs. We also learned about some tiny plants from South Africa that look like stones called Lithops. It’s worth looking up. It also happened that we were sitting under a tree that is really blooming right now. I don’t know the name, but the flowers look like round ornaments.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNP_Gx6cZol-QnkL7S22iboaXj76NDZtaxlPBUh9XiGfhHRHvO9ebKh9v7pUhfTxuFgW6Qp8PbSlA0gLdWCgGJ2X4-m14xETWIp3Mf6kxIF7gNsTUFy8h7El8ExM7kH9xnxsN1cyBNco/s529/Red+Ball+Tree.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNP_Gx6cZol-QnkL7S22iboaXj76NDZtaxlPBUh9XiGfhHRHvO9ebKh9v7pUhfTxuFgW6Qp8PbSlA0gLdWCgGJ2X4-m14xETWIp3Mf6kxIF7gNsTUFy8h7El8ExM7kH9xnxsN1cyBNco/s320/Red+Ball+Tree.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Natcha’s husband Gong has an artistic talent that he sometimes shares with us. This is done by very quietly putting a new painting or drawing on the refrigerator next to one of Nitchanan’s. Today we were surprised to see a painting that was based on a photo of Daku. A beautiful tribute.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELevYujtVEOJzK_0VD6xj1kNxKHZNVSX2_dYTj-yi5Cyln3Rm1faI140kMOWXVCHK6sd4uMzJtd17dttUCMOLHhrPwp1PHAOxbn1qHZDXVd9pKHDR6EL5HZ1-SXftAq43h0kg1cF69gk/s568/Gong+Painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELevYujtVEOJzK_0VD6xj1kNxKHZNVSX2_dYTj-yi5Cyln3Rm1faI140kMOWXVCHK6sd4uMzJtd17dttUCMOLHhrPwp1PHAOxbn1qHZDXVd9pKHDR6EL5HZ1-SXftAq43h0kg1cF69gk/s320/Gong+Painting.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">There is always another side to the joy of wonderful, warm weather: Bugs. Now, as the layers are set aside, and the shorts come out to play, so do the mosquitos. Time to get vigilant with the repellant again.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Thrilling Thursday. Mask Up, Step Back!</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“It is not the style of clothes one wears,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">neither the kind of automobile one drives,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">nor the amount of money one has in the bank</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">that counts. These mean nothing. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">It is simply service that measures success.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~George Washington Carver</div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-86183324942721095882021-02-17T06:21:00.002-08:002021-02-17T06:21:13.691-08:00Intent<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weather in Chiang Rai is the same as yesterday and the day before. The daytime air was clear, and the birds are happy.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Easy Monday’ song wasn’t very easy. It was “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears for Fears. The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune really should be easy. “You must remember this, a kiss is still a kiss, a sigh is just a sigh. The fundamental things apply __ __ __ __.” Hint: This song was featured in a 1942 film. Most famous line: ‘Play it again, Sam’. Something about the passage of the thing that’s measured by a clock. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Over the weekend we picked up some interesting information. This was the first year that all the schools were closed (Friday) for Chinese New Year. There are a few more days of tradition to the New Year involving families getting together. One that we were aware of brings families together to go to the burial place of ancestors, to clean up the site and have a picnic. We have learned is that there is always a lot of eating involved.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning was a Big C event. We arrived ten minutes after opening and the place was almost empty. Like most big stores and eating establishments, Big C offers home delivery. The delivery people get their orders from the dispatch and show up at the store and the store fills the orders. No money has to change hands. They load up their insulated boxes, strap them on their bikes and race through the traffic. Sometimes the riders can be annoying, but it’s really quite a service they're providing, and for little pay I might add. We see pick-ups being made at Starbuck’s all the time. That segues into our next stop, Starbuck’s at the mall. Nothing special, just coffee and a treat and out. I think today was one of the fastest shopping/coffee runs in ages.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Another tradition of Chinese New Year is the Lion Dancers and their drum corp. We’ve noticed them on Clock Tower street, and around town. There are several crews circulating and we know this because every year our neighbor across the street invites them all to his house for a big blow out. They arrive in vans and trucks, bringing their lions and drums. They perform in his front yard, set off firecrackers, and then they get fed. This year one of the crews landed a gig at Bed Villa, our illustrious neighbors. There are some of these crews that are in it purely for the hustle, and others who follow tradition. I have seen in the past, a group that went through the market performing, and then came back and demanded payment from merchants. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo was taken over our front wall as a crew walked to the Lion Dance gathering. He’s carrying some kind of demon.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIw-FRSYQALtMiB8l4PoG-maYx6iBdXgKbZbG9Dso_aF8ph4DCBDQl28y84iVWQfKLTV8RSzLwNvpVrO_2RAY4ejnJlIbAacaCLMzTXCDiyuqsECm2wLRZpcVrrg8x3SjYrH6887Et7Q/s467/Demon+Head.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZIw-FRSYQALtMiB8l4PoG-maYx6iBdXgKbZbG9Dso_aF8ph4DCBDQl28y84iVWQfKLTV8RSzLwNvpVrO_2RAY4ejnJlIbAacaCLMzTXCDiyuqsECm2wLRZpcVrrg8x3SjYrH6887Et7Q/s320/Demon+Head.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">It feels like a Wacky Wednesday.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“What is the quality of your intent?”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Thurgood Marshall</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-54159654772251396202021-02-16T05:44:00.002-08:002021-02-16T05:44:26.117-08:00Love<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weather loop continues to please. Warm days and cool nights make me a very happy guy.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Well, I guess it wasn’t really an ‘Easy Monday’ kind of song. One reader, so far, has named the song. Here’s more:</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“It’s my own design, it’s my own remorse. Help me to decide, help me make the most of freedom and the pleasure, nothing every lasts forever. __ __ __ __ __ __.” Clue: Sometimes they found it necessary to Shout.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I haven’t mentioned the smokey air lately because as of February 1 it has been illegal to burn trash of various kinds. There is still a slight problem with the night time. Offenders can’t be discovered when they burn at night. Their neighbors can’t report them. We’ll need rolling smoke detector trucks to sniff them out. All in all, it’s better.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning we made an early run to Browney Pet World to restock the ‘treat box’. We discovered a very healthy line of treats that were on sale so we returned to get a good supply. They’re from New Zealand and one never knows if they’ll get more. Because we bought extra of the special kibble, we got a gift treat as well. We left there with a bunch of good stuff for the dogs that will last a long time. JaiDee didn’t get to go, but he’ll be happy with the results.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">A few weeks ago we visited Doy Din Dang, the ceramic studio and gift shop. As we were leaving I spotted this pole that appeared to have been decorated. Tamiko, who makes beautiful floral arrangements, was the artist of this creation. I don’t know what kind of seed pods she used, but I’ll ask. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij2qvgQ5ogvxWZnp3XR06giLxsayIX0gS0fWuAbwpPZIWoZkmsv2TACEL8qfjk2V2bIxlNvAlYcT5j6aEjn6vhbYDZZ8QnmjnDuwUE-b3yP15gLxV-vBa4biTXsN9iYPBjBudEi2UBYjU/s529/SeedPod+Pole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij2qvgQ5ogvxWZnp3XR06giLxsayIX0gS0fWuAbwpPZIWoZkmsv2TACEL8qfjk2V2bIxlNvAlYcT5j6aEjn6vhbYDZZ8QnmjnDuwUE-b3yP15gLxV-vBa4biTXsN9iYPBjBudEi2UBYjU/s320/SeedPod+Pole.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePx3kcmsBi59rqdsnC-IDMvViDhyphenhyphen0fr0y32oq5AD0fSWwaH0m33w4j373P_YJYOvIJZNN8__aa_E63z42VX80OPD1iduRIjxVBBXfoU1rnkBC0l3FvapjIoErnnLBgBsgxW_i9awiuzQ/s567/SeedPods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjePx3kcmsBi59rqdsnC-IDMvViDhyphenhyphen0fr0y32oq5AD0fSWwaH0m33w4j373P_YJYOvIJZNN8__aa_E63z42VX80OPD1iduRIjxVBBXfoU1rnkBC0l3FvapjIoErnnLBgBsgxW_i9awiuzQ/s320/SeedPods.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This afternoon we tackled one of the favorite things in the life of an expat, renewing a visa. My passport had to be renewed a few months ago and it meant that my visa would expire. It’s complicated, but it meant that I needed to renew my visa so it lined up with Lisa’s. Today we arrived in the afternoon and found an empty waiting room. We were sent to an officer who, with very little personality, took the paperwork and said, ‘Sit down’. He did his work and had no complaints about our presentation. Lisa has become very efficient at providing exactly what they want, and having backups if they need that. When I was called to the counter and he said, ‘Take photo’, I knew we were almost done. We left there with big smiles on our faces, since it was a complicated renewal and it worked. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This evening Lisa was doing some exercises on the floor. When she started, JaiDee was downstairs, but as soon as she started he seemed to appear. This usually changes the nature of the exercises because he becomes very curious as to why his human is on the floor. She managed to complete what she was doing, even with the ‘trainer’ wanting to supervise and participate. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Happy Tuesday. Don’t forget to mask up and step back.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Love is the only force capable of transforming</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">an enemy into a friend.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Martin Luther King, Jr.</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-74672253631828321262021-02-15T06:33:00.002-08:002021-02-15T06:33:35.369-08:00Freedom<p> Hi,</p><div><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weather here in Chiang Rai has been wonderful. Today is was almost 90°F. It was the first day in weeks that I wore shorts to go out. My kinda weather.</span><br style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;" /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Express Yourself” by The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band. ‘Easy Monday’ is for all you lovers of 80’s music. This one is from 1985, by a very popular duet. “Welcome to your life, there’s no turning back, even while we sleep. We will find you acting on your best behaviour, turn your back on mother nature __ __ __ __ __ __.” Hint: Some folks want to run a town, some a country, the chorus of the song thinks different. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weekend was great. There were more B’day happenings and more greetings than I ever expected. I heard from people I haven’t heard from in years. I guess one gets to that time when it’s important to reach out and acknowledge fellow ‘survivors’. For whatever reason, there was a lot of love flyin’ around this weekend. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Saturday morning we met our friends Lisa and Win at Chivit Thamma Da. Lisa brought a tub of her now-famous Snickerdoodles, which we promptly passed around discreetly. It was fairly early, but people were arriving for Chinese New Year family gatherings. We learned that there is a new pastry shop in the area, so good that they sell out by 10am. We try not to make it a habit to eat such things, but who knows what might be there? I’m down to healthy cookies and the occasional scone at Chivit. Trying to watch my boyish figure (555). Truth is, most of the stuff doesn’t agree with me.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our afternoon was quiet time, since we both had massages from Khun Jin. After the evening dog/people walk we settled into some Netflix. In the course of conversations with various friends, it’s clear that we’re a little behind on some ‘creative presentations’. Speaking of that, I heard a very informative piece on NPR about the life of Marcus Garvey. Someone you should look up if you don’t know about him.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We did The Wanderer on Sunday morning, with JaiDee. We had coffee and roti with our friend Atom. During our visit we got more insight into some of the traditions of Chinese New Year. We knew a lot, but every time I hear about these cultural/family traditions, I get a deeper understanding of Thai culture as a whole. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo was taken last week at Big C, right at the main entrance. What you’re seeing is prepared duck, which will be the staple of many celebration meals. It’s the first time we’ve seen them presented like this for sale.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10D2mz02oVoFjpbcCeO26TAl-PRaEKZ4sz9PgQ3MKBfQwoR7evBOk8qwVR1YwKKysXxmeDJcN_L3hH4XzWzm-mzL6rt5yf_-BEuHWl6FC1MTK6HAwnbswqITqNjTLgvojvUdtBOIm3HA/s567/Duck+%2540+Big+C.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="567" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10D2mz02oVoFjpbcCeO26TAl-PRaEKZ4sz9PgQ3MKBfQwoR7evBOk8qwVR1YwKKysXxmeDJcN_L3hH4XzWzm-mzL6rt5yf_-BEuHWl6FC1MTK6HAwnbswqITqNjTLgvojvUdtBOIm3HA/s320/Duck+%2540+Big+C.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Thailand is still struggling with cases of COVID-19 in the lower half of the country. There are tiny provinces south of Bangkok that are entry places for immigrant migrant workers. As testing has been stepped up, more cases have been identified. The difficulty is in catching those who are positive before they leave the immediate area. Chiang Rai is still virus free, but remaining vigilant. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Great Week.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“I’ll tell you what freedom means to me:</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">No fear. I mean really, no fear!”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Nina Simone</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-39149550383623269712021-02-12T07:37:00.000-08:002021-02-12T07:37:52.388-08:00Friday Funnies<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weather was perfect for celebrating a birthday. We had clear skies, no smoke and moderate temps that didn’t require a jacket after about 10am. The evening actually stayed warmer than usual.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” by too many artists to mention, although Ella Fitzgerald and Sam Cooke both had memorable versions. It was written by Duke Ellington and Bob Russell (lyrics). </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">‘Old School Friday’ is up next. “__ __! __ __! You don’t ever need help from nobody else. All you got to do now:</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">__ __! What ever you do, do it good. What ever you do, do it good. All right… It’s not what you look like, when you’re doin’ what you’re doin’. It’s what you’re doin’ when you’re doin’ what you look like you’re doin’! __ __! __ __!</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Some people have everything, and other people don’t. But everything don’t mean a thing if it ain’t the thing you want. __ __! __ __!” Hint: This 1970 R&B tune urged fans to say what was on their minds, to go for their dreams, in an odd fashion. The band was named for a special street in Los Angeles.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This was a busy day. It began with Lisa, Cat and me going to The Wanderer for breakfast. We usually have our first meal at home, but today was special so we held out. Lisa and Cat had rather healthy meals, while the kid in me had dessert. It was French Toast with cooked apple slices. Oh, so good. Our friend Edwin joined us and we had a great time talking about music. This was prompted by a gift he brought, 2 CDs of some serious jazz. We spoke of our musical histories and memorable times. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Before lunch we hung out with Nitchanan and Cat. It was very interesting to listen to the interaction between them. Some of it was in Thai, and Cat would give us the basic meaning of each exchange. A few days ago, Nitchanan was interrogating Cat about where her home was. Cat told her it was here, at the house. Then Nitchanan asked her where she lived and Cat told her she lived in an apartment. Well, that didn’t make any sense to Nitchanan. It started to sound like an Abbot and Costello routine (who’s on first). Nitchanan understood that you lived at home and she was determined to get to the bottom of this. I don’t think she got satisfaction though. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Through the years I’ve mentioned a young Thai violinist who has been studying in France. It was recently announced that he and two other musicians won a competition for three chairs in the National Orchestra of France. Tonoi has made the ‘Big Time’ so to speak. From playing at art exhibit openings on the sidewalk in Chiang Rai, to the concert halls of Paris. Congratulations. Bravo!</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">After our nap, it was time to prepare for the third installment of the day. We went to Central Plaza Mall to have dinner with our longtime friends, Nukoon and Sutheera. Since we arrived early, we had time to browse in a couple of everything stores. Lot of fun stuff to discover. At dinner, Nukoon told us about his golfing adventure today with his sons out at the Happy City golf course. We talked about walking and how good it is for us all. He and Sutheera were the ones who got us into measuring our steps and keeping track of fitness, etc. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This photo was taken at the mall while we were waiting for dinner. I’m standing amongst the Chinese New Year decorations. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRd62iTsplOx2eOT4PnfeGz4avRB_fuzUUkWsZ1Gnj2RQ4U6KPibRNAtPQKIB8FaOFx5ujGckmHYoKQEy5v2COMUj0wSP9d8uMA79ROhc-Gr5T5SG2lr4lKI3pQtA7swEdl4Wk5D_PoU/s454/B%2527day+Mall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="454" data-original-width="340" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRd62iTsplOx2eOT4PnfeGz4avRB_fuzUUkWsZ1Gnj2RQ4U6KPibRNAtPQKIB8FaOFx5ujGckmHYoKQEy5v2COMUj0wSP9d8uMA79ROhc-Gr5T5SG2lr4lKI3pQtA7swEdl4Wk5D_PoU/s320/B%2527day+Mall.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">After dinner we went to The Wanderer to hang out and listen to some live music. At one point they sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to me several times while the chocolate cake was being prepared with trick candles. A very enjoyable time.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivHQ5DiMuW-RU37adxv7VjGMs2_qWI0kZgpwax6SOHJMudNR-ZKe88rmpG83UefPza4js_jjoqTvsqX-v5UjE3vdnteFf4EEY3W0S-DdxyQat6LdkskYh6i4CLBb7d9BKGz9-8k_4Dz8/s454/B%2527day+Wanderer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivHQ5DiMuW-RU37adxv7VjGMs2_qWI0kZgpwax6SOHJMudNR-ZKe88rmpG83UefPza4js_jjoqTvsqX-v5UjE3vdnteFf4EEY3W0S-DdxyQat6LdkskYh6i4CLBb7d9BKGz9-8k_4Dz8/s320/B%2527day+Wanderer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">So, I had a very happy birthday day. Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Time for the ‘Funnies’.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFK0MFuxWpdafU1bCspeD2fHMl6KgtZq-h22E9FT6q1yTokyud_crtLcv3kpL1I5s1iEgg68fITaCHZE1rEJ2mu4qWoiwmcVGnwCCxlrBeQ8aFwhiqyXF-bq7972zqkJHIvqNYIFURycA/s496/hipsters+joke.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFK0MFuxWpdafU1bCspeD2fHMl6KgtZq-h22E9FT6q1yTokyud_crtLcv3kpL1I5s1iEgg68fITaCHZE1rEJ2mu4qWoiwmcVGnwCCxlrBeQ8aFwhiqyXF-bq7972zqkJHIvqNYIFURycA/s320/hipsters+joke.jpeg" /></a></div></div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-87807482429765849442021-02-11T06:11:00.002-08:002021-02-11T06:11:13.933-08:00Insides<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We’re in another weather loop and we’re not complaining. All of the warm jackets are back on the coat rack for the morning time, and the light clothes at the front of the closet. Ready!</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune has been a charted hit many times by many artists. The music was written in 1940, and the lyrics in ’42. It’s a jazz standard for sure. “Darling, I guess my mind’s more at ease, but, nevertheless, why stir up memories. Been invited on dates. Might have gone but what for. Awfully different without you, __ __ __ __ __.” Clue: You’ll find the writer if you ‘Take the A Train’ to Sugar Hill. The satin doll can give you directions.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our normally quiet evening has been interrupted by the sound of firecrackers. Our neighbors are ‘practicing’ for tomorrow’s celebration of Chinese New Year. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This was our ‘Stay at home’ day. After a lazy morning and a wonderfully warming soup, JaiDee got a bath. We waited until the air temperature was warm enough to have a drying effect. Once he was past the dripping stage, and inside the house, a hair dryer was used. I’m the designated giver of treats to keep him calm. TongTong stays right by my side, wanting treats as well. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We always go out into the yard after dinner for lessons in the art of playing. TongTong gets leash lessons and JaiDee is learning to be a retriever (555). There is also some strolling involved. While on the daylight walk I snapped these photos of the latest orchids in our yard.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShEhvKJz-HhW37T5LbqcWoR-4_q10NWsLf-lJJTNoaVD9_QrbMA6JxXDSQq8D0n_TVZOdMykqsY1mCWPH_GYFJo0zr8cZYKG-VrwEEamj1UrvD_3K9v9ECssco9F0_NYpR4r1VprCLl0/s529/YelloBurg+Orchid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjShEhvKJz-HhW37T5LbqcWoR-4_q10NWsLf-lJJTNoaVD9_QrbMA6JxXDSQq8D0n_TVZOdMykqsY1mCWPH_GYFJo0zr8cZYKG-VrwEEamj1UrvD_3K9v9ECssco9F0_NYpR4r1VprCLl0/s320/YelloBurg+Orchid.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXf5aeZiwgXCY-T2qbNIOaj5ykPIkW5fXNKsU3PwVOLCzG_S26rpJETxdcSjrWiQFJtUndp-aBCL2ihTehyn13ay7LNjURclv8yakffZpeSz8QwTgC8mKkTmt8KT1ZUtAKnGZXrnRGAg/s529/DarkPink+Orchid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPXf5aeZiwgXCY-T2qbNIOaj5ykPIkW5fXNKsU3PwVOLCzG_S26rpJETxdcSjrWiQFJtUndp-aBCL2ihTehyn13ay7LNjURclv8yakffZpeSz8QwTgC8mKkTmt8KT1ZUtAKnGZXrnRGAg/s320/DarkPink+Orchid.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Tomorrow will be a busy day. It’s the day I will have completed 78 times around the sun while hanging on to this planet. We’ll hit The Wanderer in the morning for coffee/breakfast with friends, a dinner at the mall with old friends, and end up back at The Wanderer for one of their month-end after hours parties. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Thrilling Thursday. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Racism tears down your insides so that</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">no matter what you achieve, you’re not quite</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">up to snuff.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Alvin Ailey</div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-73952329531690145142021-02-10T06:36:00.002-08:002021-02-10T06:36:59.835-08:00Heart<p> Hi,</p><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today the sky was clear as a bell. Not a cloud, not a puff of smoke, just perfect. Started out cold but warmed up as usual. </span><br style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;" /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Rain” by The Beatles. For this week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune we have another easy one: “Missed the Saturday dance. Heard they crowded the floor. Couldn’t bear it without you, __ __ __ __ __. Thought I’d visit the club, got as far as the door. They’d have asked me about you. __ __ __ __ __.” Hint: It almost sounds like a COVID song. When one stays at home most of the time, this happens. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This was a Big C morning. The decorations are complete around town and Big C is no exception when it comes to celebrating Chinese New Year. The check-out staff are in red and gold outfits, lanterns and balls are hanging and there are racks of garments just waiting for the revelers. I almost got a red T-shirt with gold figures on it, but realized I probably wouldn’t wear it. Hmm, I’ll kick myself later. At Makro the other day, we noticed some staff wearing beautiful dresses that looked like costumes. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">After our shopping, we went across the highway for coffee at Starbuck’s. My glasses still weren’t right, sitting two high on my face, so we went into the mall when it opened. I decided to try another shop for the adjustment. The technician would be there in one hour. At the next shop I was told that it was the techs day off. We ended up at the shop that made them too high in the first place and he lowered them for free. Whew.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I couldn’t resist sharing this with you. On Monday at Chivit Thamma Da, I ordered Stockholm Tea, (a blend of coffee and black tea). This was the first time I was given the whole ‘works’, which meant the little timer. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpi4oPygfIXLMuofMfuBPMdAKBJ-Jz27-Qpfn5AkqD0FSluHJ7WnwQOsKUZOSVKK8-CCtoP-k_fkJXYV7BSk_9FwAisVoOV6xx99gZWONlrOz83lc7Uz5ME3HXk2_OvsCRD9p5zvzv3t8/s529/Stockholm+Tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpi4oPygfIXLMuofMfuBPMdAKBJ-Jz27-Qpfn5AkqD0FSluHJ7WnwQOsKUZOSVKK8-CCtoP-k_fkJXYV7BSk_9FwAisVoOV6xx99gZWONlrOz83lc7Uz5ME3HXk2_OvsCRD9p5zvzv3t8/s320/Stockholm+Tea.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">In local news, the number of Covid cases in Thailand is decreasing. There has been aggressive testing in areas of outbreaks and this is keeping down the spread of the virus. That’s always good news. Here in Chiang Rai, things remain the same; no virus. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“The fact is that when you do something</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">from the heart, you leave a heart print.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Alice Walker</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-4591787821767783892021-02-09T06:33:00.002-08:002021-02-09T06:33:56.409-08:00Stranger<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">All the rain clouds blew away overnight. We were left with patchy clouds, a cold breeze and a beautiful day. Everything got washed and, as Natcha put it, “The trees are happy”.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Easy Monday’ song must be in your mind somewhere. Only a couple of you wrote with the answer, but you must know this: “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. I can show you that when it starts to __, everything’s the same, I can show you, I can show you.” Clue: I don’t think you need anymore clues than the lyrics.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Last night we finished watching the most pitiful Super Bowl game in years. I enjoy sports when there is competition, a balance of talent, etc. Somehow one side left their good stuff at home and the other side was super ready. Oh well, there will be many more games on many more fields. We don’t get to see any commercials on the feed we get, so I’ll have to go to Youtube and check out this year’s productions.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning it was cold. Middle 50’s cold. We bundled up and went to The Wanderer with JaiDee. There was no one there but us for most of our stay. The very tall trees have a hypnotic effect if you stand among them and look straight up. When they sway in the light breeze they seem almost alive, in an animal sense. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our stay at The Wanderer was brief because this was a morning when we talk to Joe, in Palo Alto, California. Today we got unexpected good news. He got his first COVID vaccine injection. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This afternoon we took JaiDee to the vet’s. He wakes up in the mornings and can’t stop scratching. It’s sort of random and hard to define the cause. Unfortunately we didn’t get a definitive answer, but maybe the medicated shampoo will help. We weighed him and he’s 57 lbs. I guess he’s going to be a little guy after all, which is fine with us. He’s enough to handle at that weight. He still has some growing to do, maybe, but he won’t be a heavyweight. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Coming home was interesting, driving through rush-hour traffic. We’re usually not anywhere near the downtown area during rush hour, so this was something to see. When it goes slow, one gets a chance to savor what’s going on with the shops along the way. Who’s open, who is closed down, stuff like that. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo was taken from the van. I noticed a new coffee shop (Greyhound Coffee) at the major Honda dealership. It was the artwork that caught my eye.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0mE_e4kbQBW6nQyc-T9AilCRUDfYmQ-sH9RwltsFIGZWWztUUkfPDzmNgQi5FIeHlvFLAzmaabxCqF8bM9RPPh1WtTBTaoU3Z_g3eIR4hd5lIkKt7-80R0xIwcmcWZI7BvlQutz49Q8/s479/Greyhound+Coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk0mE_e4kbQBW6nQyc-T9AilCRUDfYmQ-sH9RwltsFIGZWWztUUkfPDzmNgQi5FIeHlvFLAzmaabxCqF8bM9RPPh1WtTBTaoU3Z_g3eIR4hd5lIkKt7-80R0xIwcmcWZI7BvlQutz49Q8/s320/Greyhound+Coffee.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Happy Tuesday. Mask up, Wash up, Distance yourself. Do Your Part.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“I had crossed the line. I was free; but there was</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">no one to welcome me to the land of freedom. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I was a stranger in a strange land.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Harriet Tubman </div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-70186079555720378022021-02-08T06:44:00.001-08:002021-02-08T06:44:06.513-08:00What?<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">So, last week I mentioned that everything was so dry and browning and that a little rain would be nice. Well, we got a lot of rain last night and all day today. Big thunder, occasional flashes of lightning, and lots of water. Be careful what you wish for (555). Oh, and it’s cold, which means it probably came down from China as opposed to the east. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Kansas City” by Wilbert Harrison. Time once again for ‘Easy Monday’. You should know this one by now, it’s my ‘go to’ song when the sky is falling: “If the __ comes, they run and hide their heads, they might as well be dead. If the __ comes, if the __ comes.” Hint: I think you get the picture, it’s a weather thing.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The weekend started out cloudy, with a chance of rain. I take these thing with a grain of salt because it usually doesn’t happen when ‘they’ say it will. Saturday was a pretty routine day. We had coffee at The Wanderer before doing some shopping, which meant we left JaiDee at home. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Sunday was our big outside day. Cat came over early and we went to Starbuck’s for coffee and treats before the mall opened at 10am. The plan was to look for running shoes for Lisa and Cat, plus a few other odd mall things. While they looked at shoes, I had the screen protector replaced on my phone. After a few drops, the glass had some chips around the edges that didn’t seem safe. I cruised around in the phone shop area and notice that there was a ‘Mi Store’. This is a shop for Xiaomi products. The first thing I noticed was the face masks. Then it hit me, we had their masks last year during the smokey season. They are the KN95 type, which is on the approved list for protection in both directions when it comes to the virus. I got a couple, put one on and continued to look around. I got my phone, connected with Lisa and Cat and we went back to the Mi Store for more masks. A little more browsing and it was time for lunch at Sizzler. Menu changes are often just the right things to make a place more attractive and that was the case on Sunday. I got the grilled Salmon with baked potato and had a very nice meal. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This is a Strawberry Rainbow at Sizzler. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46xm0PZJozrKWVF3C-45AgLdRO5kujmO74qTCs3wiDfEd9PdwVyE6i5P-ptlWYY4oJPbAufWjRMwGXelUKH2I9LhgAA8n9bwxdSt9ozgiQMxYjyTimoHZWpH7s-mJxpPWNrQC7YVDH2E/s567/StrawberryRainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46xm0PZJozrKWVF3C-45AgLdRO5kujmO74qTCs3wiDfEd9PdwVyE6i5P-ptlWYY4oJPbAufWjRMwGXelUKH2I9LhgAA8n9bwxdSt9ozgiQMxYjyTimoHZWpH7s-mJxpPWNrQC7YVDH2E/s320/StrawberryRainbow.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">By the time we got home, we were ready for a nap. While we were sleeping, I was charging another item I got at the Mi Store, a Bluetooth speaker. Seems like a small thing, and it’s kinda small, but it’s a big thing when your laptop is really like a TV. Most of our archived favorites are watched on the computer, either upstairs while hanging out, or downstairs in the dining room. Sharing the AirPod set is OK for some things, but a speaker is more sound. So we tested it out after I got it working, and now it travels with us. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We thought it might rain during our walk time so Lisa devised a game of hide and seek with the dogs to exercise them. I would hang on to JaiDee and she’d go down the hall and hide in one of the rooms and then call him. He would race off and search, sometimes finding her and sometimes coming out as if to say, ‘where’d she go?’. Eventually he’d find her, and TongTong even got in on the action. They were very cute and had fun hunting in the house. It turned out that we got a chance to have our walk and that was good.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">I programed the DVR for the Super Bowl and this afternoon when we went to watch, the time had been wrong and it started broadcasting at the half time show. No problem though, they played it again so I recorded that. It was messy so we’re piecing it together without the TV edits so we can see all the plays. This was also the first day of the Australian Open Tennis. Sports fans in our house are happy.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">No walk tonight but the dogs are sleeping anyway, and the rain has stopped for the moment. Time for football.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Great Week.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“What to the Slave is the 4th of July?”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Frederick Douglass </div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-70635271329347690552021-02-05T06:25:00.002-08:002021-02-05T06:25:19.692-08:00Friday Funnies<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This was the hottest day of the week. The weather people got it right all week. I didn’t check their homework, but it got progressively hotter every day. If this keeps up, I’ll have to put a toe in the water and see how it feels. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “The Nearness of You”, written by Hoagy Carmichael and Ned Washington. It was first recorded in 1939 by The Glenn Miller Orchestra, sung by Ray Eberle. Since then, it has been recorded by countless artists from all genres. It lends itself to improvisation nicely. Now, time for ‘Old School Friday’ and a special easy one. “I’m going to __ __, __ __ here I come. I’m going to __ __, __ __ here I come. They got some crazy lil’ women there and I’m gonna get me one.” Hint: It’s a blues, originally recorded in ’59, the title is a place and there’s a team from that place that will play a big football game this Sunday (depending on your time zone). </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our morning began with a road trip. We traveled about 25 minutes up the Super Highway to Doy Din Dang, the ceramics studio and factory of Sompong Supaluk and his wife Tamiko. Lisa took them one of her small paper sculptures. They are some of our very special friends from within the art community. To our surprise, when Tamiko arrived she had brought us a bag of freshly picked salad greens from her organic garden. She also had a bag of the red flowers that bloom once a year. These flowers are used in a soup that is a delicacy in Northern Thailand. The trees that produce the flowers grow near us and every day we see people out on the side of the road putting them in bags. Some will take them home and make the rice noodle soup, others will collect as many as they can and sell them. Apparently they bring a good price at the market, but you have to have a lot of flowers. Our conversations ranged from art to politics to culture. They keep up with world news and always have insights and questions that make it enjoyable to visit. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo was taken at Doy Din Dang. Only the center of the flower is used in the making of the soup.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CpT83Xqc6PsgJwLiZXnEGCBcHrkT7HOBbB7hQ2-R0NLC0yRt_2SbFhiU6J4gSzu_sa8-IGfbbyAHeSVpBQmaW9ZU53GdUBCXcf_kNDzCGjvkcH7J6SB0dHUNGhw7e4wIRV9rgG8zEh8/s567/Red+Flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="425" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CpT83Xqc6PsgJwLiZXnEGCBcHrkT7HOBbB7hQ2-R0NLC0yRt_2SbFhiU6J4gSzu_sa8-IGfbbyAHeSVpBQmaW9ZU53GdUBCXcf_kNDzCGjvkcH7J6SB0dHUNGhw7e4wIRV9rgG8zEh8/s320/Red+Flower.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Our timing worked out perfect for our next appointment. We had a 12 noon lunch date with what can best be described as a meal crew. We seem to get together for meals to celebrate this or that, or nothing at all. We met at Sabroso, and Mexican food. Today I tried something new and really enjoyed it. I had a chicken Chimichanga. We had a discussion about an immigration drama that one friend is going through, and the possible solutions. Of course there was virus talk, school and travel, and the ever-important silliness for no reason. At one point the co-owner came in and we learned that she’s been taking a ‘coffee class’. How interesting, learning all about the beans that are so prevalent in the north. Two hours later we were more than ready to go home and rest. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">After our nap, Cat came over during an unexpected break at school. I got the info on the ‘red flower soup’ from her while we were hanging out. She said it’s good, but usually very spicy. She spent her day monitoring testing in 5 classrooms. We asked if the kids try to cheat and she said some did. She just told them, ‘I’m watching you’ and they stopped. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Time for the ‘Funnies’.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dPew0Zp3q5LytIiZl6Grc8AtKUG0Jcg8TBnwoo5SOfBQ33BjZuavazV-DG0j7iiszoc-kGabDaQVpiHkDv8J3OoS_LTRbq0PETSMDon71cRdQ1kCaUyp4_ARefLlZuQXLidxv5SJJ6I/s542/Hey%252C+Hey%252C+Hey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="542" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dPew0Zp3q5LytIiZl6Grc8AtKUG0Jcg8TBnwoo5SOfBQ33BjZuavazV-DG0j7iiszoc-kGabDaQVpiHkDv8J3OoS_LTRbq0PETSMDon71cRdQ1kCaUyp4_ARefLlZuQXLidxv5SJJ6I/s320/Hey%252C+Hey%252C+Hey.jpg" /></a></div><br /></div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-266177946501660312021-02-04T06:20:00.002-08:002021-02-04T06:20:35.249-08:00Dangerous<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">As you guessed, we had another warm day in Chiang Rai. The overnight temps are getting warmer and easier in the mornings. The only problem is the lack of rain. The landscapes are getting that brownish look. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune only had one response. Maybe when you read and hum the bridge you’ll get it.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“When you’re in my arms, and I feel you so close to me. All my wildest dreams come true. I need no soft lights to enchant me, if you’d only grant me the right to hold you ever so tight, and to feel in the night __ __ __ __.” Clue: This song began life back in 1939 and has been sung through the years by countless jazz and would-be jazz singers. The writer of the music has a name like a sandwich.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning we went to Chivit Thamma Da with JaiDee. We arrived at the same time as our friend John, and he and JaiDee had a very warm greeting in the parking lot. Today we took what we call a ‘Babysitter Bone’ for JaiDee and this kept him occupied for a long time while we humans talked about current events and discussed health care in Chiang Rai. We also noted that it’s been rather quiet at most of the places we’ve gone lately. At Chivit this morning it wasn’t empty, but it wasn’t busy. The staff even mentioned it to Lisa. On the way home the traffic was very light. I joked about back in the ‘old days’ this was how the streets were. We both laughed, because it was true. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo is from our other hang out. I haven’t had a chance to ask The Wanderer staff what it is, but it’s pretty amazing looking.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7Lo4DUl8xjrvVqwUUHr2XipJChnJdfSwwKuCurdTf-MvPZwsnIEZC_cYDkmB879_8kwElDE9mYz7SEEhOjcn__IaRdR56ZJwBsWw5GDr14gg7L8LF-0YWjHC5KvEbfvi_-e-aU3NsQc/s529/Wander+Odd.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7Lo4DUl8xjrvVqwUUHr2XipJChnJdfSwwKuCurdTf-MvPZwsnIEZC_cYDkmB879_8kwElDE9mYz7SEEhOjcn__IaRdR56ZJwBsWw5GDr14gg7L8LF-0YWjHC5KvEbfvi_-e-aU3NsQc/s320/Wander+Odd.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Tomorrow we’re going to Doy Din Dang for coffee and conversation with Tamiko and Somluk, who has a new ceramic exhibit opening in Chiang Mai. From there we’ll have lunch at Sabroso with one of our little circles of friends. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Happy Thursday. Don’t forget take care of yourself.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Nothing in all the world is more dangerous</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Martin Luther King, Jr. </div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-80954099719766173442021-02-03T06:26:00.003-08:002021-02-03T06:26:31.955-08:00Fear<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We seem to be in a wonderful weather loop. Today it was 86°, tomorrow 87° and the beat goes on. It’s a nice rut to be in I suppose.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Right Place, Wrong Time” by Dr. John. This week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ should be easy:</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“It’s not the pale moon that excites me, that thrills and delights me, oh no it’s just __ __ __ __. It isn’t your sweet conversation, that brings this sensation, oh no, it’s just __ __ __ __.” Hint: So, proximity comes to mind. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning, when we got downstairs, the horse was standing on the patio looking into the house. Very creepy at first, then we got used to him being there (555).</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0j06M594cdXZpvhkEywkWjlR2Cj75XmeTZ3LpJBD8mgRRKHrGJrgqOybs4y0mg4vrTQZvvaFi9c-t3ZjKKXj_lfsrq9D7AAIVU0onxBp9Tq3LcSvtc0JYC6ksrSjKWDYB8rP42Xe5W3k/s444/Horse+looking+in.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0j06M594cdXZpvhkEywkWjlR2Cj75XmeTZ3LpJBD8mgRRKHrGJrgqOybs4y0mg4vrTQZvvaFi9c-t3ZjKKXj_lfsrq9D7AAIVU0onxBp9Tq3LcSvtc0JYC6ksrSjKWDYB8rP42Xe5W3k/s320/Horse+looking+in.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">After our morning routine at the house, we went to The Wanderer for warm drinks and roti. The decorations were up for Chinese New Year. I’ll take some photos to show you how it looks. The bright red in contrast to the natural shades of green is very dramatic. In the meantime, here are some examples of large Bird’s nest ferns that I like.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNJp4z0Goz_POpmYGQHMB6lLXE5BVTNIpfMtClfSDWOILv98JVPETOIqxYOd_wtVUSj8syY1wzS7QrAj-E1iG7ED7x6btK2ej9qht9fkPLqu9RUhXuZtbnW1LN4SzXmSKORdS5wPBUnU/s529/Fern+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="397" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaNJp4z0Goz_POpmYGQHMB6lLXE5BVTNIpfMtClfSDWOILv98JVPETOIqxYOd_wtVUSj8syY1wzS7QrAj-E1iG7ED7x6btK2ej9qht9fkPLqu9RUhXuZtbnW1LN4SzXmSKORdS5wPBUnU/s320/Fern+1.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwzcpVahXIe2UhyK_qeHeMrib0jHdD9LWGc_N1qR8uyBk70fnovpiVeHyI6RFGvibguocwkTofc56NZh76E3WIFmziu-8ZMiczJSC4sluk0lhEPifLlZYo3tV3L8dMfrBBCXxslhx8ORk/s453/Fern+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="340" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwzcpVahXIe2UhyK_qeHeMrib0jHdD9LWGc_N1qR8uyBk70fnovpiVeHyI6RFGvibguocwkTofc56NZh76E3WIFmziu-8ZMiczJSC4sluk0lhEPifLlZYo3tV3L8dMfrBBCXxslhx8ORk/s320/Fern+3.jpg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We returned to the place that sells glasses to pick up Lisa's reading glasses. She’s very happy with the new prescription. Now we both have clear views of our screens and other things we’re supposed to read. I’m getting adjusted to looking through a lens all day. It’s weird because for so long, I used to wear ‘store bought’ readers over my contacts. Now there’s something on my face all day and, well, at times I take the new glasses off, thinking they’re the reader. And still, life is good.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“Fear of something is at the root of </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">hate for others, and hate within will</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">eventually destroy the hater.”</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~George Washington Carver</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-32205589393447802802021-02-02T06:30:00.001-08:002021-02-02T06:30:08.851-08:00Dignity<p> <span style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">We have been having temps ranging from 59° to 86°, with variations from day to day. It’s very comfortable after about 9am. A little more water and things would be even more beautiful. </div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">Quite a few of you recognized the ‘Easy Monday’ song. It’s by an artist who is a doctor, but not a doctor.</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">“I been in the __ __ but it must have been the __ __. My head is in a bad place, but I’m having such a good time. I been running trying to get hung up in my mind. Really got to give myself a good talking to this time. Just need a little brain salad surgery…” Clue: It’s about those times when time and place are out of alignment. His last name is a first name.</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">This morning the dogs woke us early, and got us up too. Just as we were getting used to the 7:15 wake up, today it was an hour early. As a result, I was sleepy all morning. It’s because we didn’t ‘walk’ last night as a result of our massage. It was suggested that we take the night off. Tonight the dogs got their exercise and are sleeping already (not quite 9pm). Maybe we’ll get to sleep in tomorrow morning (555).</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">One of the cool things about the sports channels we get is the number of repeats of certain events. Right now we’re enjoying the NFL repeats. You never know what game it is until it starts, they just show a number, but you know it’s gonna be a football game. We’ve managed to see all of the playoffs and now we’re ready for the Super Bowl, which we’ll see on Feb. 8, sometime in the morning. Oh, one thing we don’t like is how they edit the games. Someone can make a touchdown and the next thing you see is them with the ball approaching the goal again. What? Someone got permission to broadcast what seems like the entire archive of Formula One races through the years. Well, maybe not entire, but there are so many that it’s just too much to watch. The Australian Open tennis tournament is coming soon. </div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">This afternoon we went into town and I got my new glasses. It has been many years since I wore glasses and it’s definitely more than a notion. I’m having to remember to move my head to get the best view of things. I’m still learning where the different strengths start and end. I guess I’m still a work in progress.</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">Today’s photo was taken from inside our car port. It was the scene this morning, just the way Nitchanan staged her vehicles last night. </div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VtmSTHm0FSxO5BfHqiLiG-RUH0d7aaVFTh2dKvPKZC9VUz4riA7hPdVy65nr9BDQ-3FSmSrnDHTwPZ3-dZyEWDVxyZqT6NHp6rM9KToeGG8-7s4WYBE5UmzsUC2Vkbdv0fhOXrn8iyc/s510/Nitchanan%2527s+Rides.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VtmSTHm0FSxO5BfHqiLiG-RUH0d7aaVFTh2dKvPKZC9VUz4riA7hPdVy65nr9BDQ-3FSmSrnDHTwPZ3-dZyEWDVxyZqT6NHp6rM9KToeGG8-7s4WYBE5UmzsUC2Vkbdv0fhOXrn8iyc/s320/Nitchanan%2527s+Rides.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">Have a Happy Tuesday. Don’t forget your mask when you go out.</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;"><br class="" /></div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">“The most luxurious possession, </div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">the richest treasure anybody has,</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">is his personal dignity.”</div><div class="" style="font-family: ComicSansMS; font-size: 18px;">~Jackie Robinson</div>Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1838202144037148181.post-27028600709161252982021-02-01T06:08:00.007-08:002021-02-01T06:08:58.540-08:00Choose<p> <span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Hi,</span></p><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Chiang Rai had a warm, sunny day. Saturday we got a big wind and rain event. Strong winds led to lots of rain but the ground was so dry around here that it just soaked in right away. Also, there was lots to clean up.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Glory of Love” by The Velvetones. Now it’s time for ‘Easy Monday’, and it is.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“I been in the __ __ but it must have been the __ __. I’d have said the right thing, but must have used the wrong line. I been on the right trip, but I must have used the wrong car. Head was in a bad place, and I wonder what it’s good for…” Hint: The four blanks are all part of the title. There are hints in the verse, you’ll see the pattern.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">We had a pretty quiet weekend. Our travel was limited to The Wanderer. JaiDee got to go out several times and Sunday we had a bit of a reunion with an expat friend. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">When the covid virus first got serious, many people left Thailand to return to their home countries. Some just left to visit, thinking it would be a short stay. Our friends Brenda and Eric left and ended up staying in the States to be with family. After 10 months, Eric decided to return to Thailand. It took him 4 months of dealing with red tape, and two weeks of quarantine in Bangkok, but he’s back. We got to hear the saga of his return on Sunday. There were also the life highlights that one misses after all that time. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Whenever there is a big storm we can always count on something being blown down from one of the trees. The palms are generous contributors. This storm was no exception. JaiDee found the biggest palm frond and brought it from the back yard to the front, to show us. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwL7zx4MfNyF6Kv4p47qquuI-Xxvdaiwg52HFW9SLyRHQygt-xlXXSxx_CMxyyEORnVdT483baP3LyCQHDAHSvoqHlT9DqbPUCVhespY9KhH_X-BH7ar9WmKbt_1IDwNebHRvGUhzdwQ/s454/JaiDee+Palm+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="454" data-original-width="340" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwL7zx4MfNyF6Kv4p47qquuI-Xxvdaiwg52HFW9SLyRHQygt-xlXXSxx_CMxyyEORnVdT483baP3LyCQHDAHSvoqHlT9DqbPUCVhespY9KhH_X-BH7ar9WmKbt_1IDwNebHRvGUhzdwQ/s320/JaiDee+Palm+2.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">This morning we went to Big C and Starbuck’s. It was quite empty in Big C, which is just the way we like it. Not only is it safer, but it’s quicker. It was the same at Starbuck’s. Monday morning and the city’s starting slow. </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Today was massage day at The Big Brown House. Jin came over at 12:30 and didn’t leave until 5:30. Natcha and Lisa had 1.5 hour massages and I went to 2 hours. There were parts that needed work that I didn’t know I had (555). </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Most of the covid in Thailand is down at the Gulf of Thailand. Migrant workers that are being tested account for most of the cases. Things may get a little tense with the military coup in Burma. I suspect there will be refugees arriving on a regular basis. Testing will be the key to identifying and treating those who need it. We still have no real concrete time frame for the arrival of a vaccine. Vigilance is what we’ve got.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">Have a Great Week.</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Peace,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"> Danny</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">“An artist must be free to choose what he does,</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">certainly, but he must also never be afraid to do </div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">what he might choose."</div><div style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 18px;">~Langston Hughes</div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Gratidudehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06476108639601561211noreply@blogger.com0