Friday, November 28, 2008

Friday Funnies

Hi,
This message is late, but I have a note from the opera. Yes, tonight was the night and you'll hear all about it after this interlude.
You guys were all over this song. I got mail from long lost friends (Ha) and usual suspects. It was "Rocket Man" by Sir Elton John. For the weekend, you get a challenge: "__ __ __ I have fallen in love with you, for the rest of my whole life through..."
Hint: This song reached #2 in 1959, the melody was inspired by one of the themes introduced by Musetta in Act II of La Boheme. I spotted it right away and felt compelled to dump it on you. It was recorded by a woman.
Our friend Johan picked us up a little after five and we met his Thai girlfriend of many years. Le Meridien Hotel has just been open for three weeks and we used to see it when we lived in the rental house. We had no idea what it was, or that we'd be rolling up the brick driveway to see an opera. The place is a beautiful new member of an international five star chain. We strolled the grounds before dinner and checked out the pools and other amenities. We had a table for eight but didn't know who the other couple was. Turns out they own a restaurant on the boulevard where we used to have lunch all the time.
Dinner was buffet style, and it was excellent. Not your typical buffet, but gourmet all the way. They also had a group of chefs who would prepare dishes and waiters would bring them to the table. The dessert table was also quite a sight, with marshmallows and a white chocolate fountain to draw your attention.
When we finally got to the ballroom for the production it was seven-thirty. The acting company is a chamber opera group based in London. There are six performers and a pianist. La Boheme is an Italian opera by Puccini set in Paris in the 1800s. Look it up on the net for the full story. This little troupe did a wonderful job in its scaled down form.
There were about sixty audience members. Unfortunately that number didn't fill the house and the way the chairs were set, you could see from anywhere, but it made the room look sparse. We really enjoyed ourselves and hope to do this sort of thing again. The hotel plans to have other presentations so we'll be on the look out.
Have a Pleasant WeekEnd.

Peace,
Danny

Jury Duty

A man was chosen for jury duty who really wanted to be dismissed from serving. He tried every excuse he could think of but none of them worked. On the day of the trial, he decided to give it one more shot. As the trial was about to begin, he asked if he could approach the bench.

"Your Honor," he said, "I must be excused from this trial because I am prejudiced against the defendant. I took one look at the man in the blue suit with those beady eyes and that dishonest face and I said 'He's a crook! He's guilty!' So, your Honor, I cannot possibly stay on this jury!"

With a tired annoyance the judge replied, "Get back in the jury box, you fool. That man is the defendant's lawyer."


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Thursday, November 27, 2008

Gratitude

Hi,
Let me take this opportunity to extend a Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate it. Be thankful that you can, if you chose, have a fresh turkey dinner with all the trimmings. We started to go out to one of the restaurants that caters to Westerners but decided to stick to what we know. The last time we had a turkey dinner here it was pressed and processed. Guess we'll just have to wait until we travel across the water.
Boy, a lot of you knew the song on the first day. Here's a part of it that can stick in your head. This may help some to get it.
"And I think it's gonna be a long, long time Till touch down brings me round again to find I'm not the man they think I am at home Oh, no, no, no I'm a __ __ , __ __ burning out his fuse up here alone." Hint: There are some people doing this job as you read. Imagine eating all you want and not gaining a pound. (5)
This morning BamBam came to our door at a little after seven. She gets up at 6:30 every morning. I got up and let her in and she went back and forth from one side of the bed to the other, getting her morning attention. Then she left. She returned later with a toy, or was it a bone?
We've been paying close attention to the airport issue in Bangkok since our friends Cynthia and Lynn are going back there next week. The latest news is that the Provincial Police are going to clear the place for travelers.
After a morning of depressing news we went downtown to send a fax, buy a chair for Boots room, and visit an art gallery I spotted while we were driving. It was a single 'shop house' with the front totally open air. Two artists, a young man and woman, show and sell their paintings. It looked like they work in the back. It was nice to see another way to present art work. They sell to Thais and tourists.
Tomorrow night we're going to a new hotel, Le Meridien, to have dinner and see a presentation of La Boheme. I may write the day's message before we leave, but you can be sure I'll tell you all about it at some point. We're going with Johan, Jane and Ruud, our friends from the Danish community. Now where did I put my top hat and tails?
Have a Good Thursday,

Peace,
Danny

"As we express our gratitude,
we must never forget that the highest appreciation
is not to utter words, but to live by them."
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

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Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Big Things

Hi,
It was a busy day on the compound today. We had some pool revelations, said 'oh well' to the well and did some 'team' watering. Miss BamBam misbehaved and the sky was clear and blue.
Everybody was singing "Please, Mr. Postman" by The Marvelettes. Now we're moving forward in time, and it's out of this world. "She packed my bags last night, pre-flight. Zero hour, nine a.m., and I'm gonna be high as a kite by then." Clues: This first person narrative is by a Knight in flight. Hmm.
We had a visit from Johan and one of his guys this morning. I had figured out that the leak in the pool had to be coming from the light housings since the channel around the pool was wet at each position. Johan agreed so we started pumping water out of the pool. They'll take the lights apart and see what's going on.
Later in the morning Kek came over with a plan for an irrigation system based on well water. After a long discussion he revealed that the well wouldn't really produce enough water beyond an hour at a time. Hmm, and why didn't he tell us that in the beginning? It seems that the well wasn't dug deep enough. Now there's no way to bring in the big drilling truck. Oh well.
In the afternoon Lisa, Boot and I took parts of the yard and watered the flower beds and trees. It went much faster with all of us working at the same time. The water pressure wasn't ideal, but it worked. Later I set up the rainbird and watered the front lawn. Tomorrow I'll do the back. It was nice being out in nature, seeing the little things that I sometimes take for granted.
There comes a time in every teenaged dog's life when they must 'go off'. Today was one of those day's for BamBam. Words like defiance and mischief come to mind. It's cute for a minute and then it get 'tired'. Later she calmed down and returned to her sweet self. She has this thing she does with her rawhide bones where she shakes her head and then lets go and they fly across the room. Then, of course, she has to chase and pounce. It's a hunting thing I suppose. It's fun to watch.
I've received emails of concern regarding the demonstrations in Bangkok. It's nowhere near us, but it is posing a problem for all the tourists who are trying to enter or leave the Kingdom. We're hoping a conclusion comes soon. It's just too bad that this is how we make the world news.
Time for another Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

PS Thanks to Claire for the quote.

"Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things."
~ Unknown

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Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Light

Hi,
It was another gorgeous day here in Chiang Rai. Blue sky with some fluffy white clouds in the distance. We had a mellow day and tried a language experiment that I'll tell you about in a minute.
See, I told you that this would be a song you knew. Lots of mail. Today's line should nail it if you're on the fence. Easy one.
"There must be some word today, from my boyfriend so far away. __ __ __, look and see, if there's a letter, a letter for me. (and my favorite line) deliver the letter, the sooner the better..." Hint: Could it be any more clear? Please use your imagination.
This morning BamBam spotted the cows from upstairs and really wanted to bark at them. We caught her early and she got off a few and then some low growls. Those big things aren't supposed to be there. We've noticed that when she goes on 'patrol' she's taking an inventory of the yard. If a big leaf falls when she's in the yard, it gets barked at. If she comes out and it's on the ground, it gets bitten. Sometimes she'll run out, attack a leaf and then prance around the yard with it in her mouth. Maybe she's part lion.
It had been suggested that we try watching a movie with Thai language audio and English subtitles, to help us learn the language. We went to our local video store where I still have a valid card, and discovered there were many films to chose from. We got three American comedies and brought them home to practice listening. Well, it really didn't work. The dialogue is going by too fast to listen, while you look at the subtitles to see if you're correct, and then keep it all in context. Whew. We just switched the first one to English and watched the movie. The other plan is to watch some of the programming for children in the morning and see if we can follow along from time to time.
That's about it for today. Tomorrow is pool guy day and later we'll do more planning with the landscape people about a new well water system for the yard. Great lawns require great amounts of water, as do the many trees. Might as well take advantage of the source. (the pun was intended)
Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"There are two ways of spreading light...
to be the candle,
or the mirror that reflects it."
~Edith Wharton

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Monday, November 24, 2008

Magic

Hi,
Hope you had a nice weekend. Ours was very good. We cruised Chiang Rai with our house guests, did the 'Walk' and played with the dog.
The weekend song was "Don't Mess Around With Jim" by the late Jim Croce. Let's start the week off with one you know.
"__ __ __, look and see (Oh yeah) if there's a letter in your bag for me, why's it takin' such a long time, for me to hear from that boy of mine." Clues: This marvelous oldie is from the early 60s. Neither sleet or snow or the dead of night, blah blah.
Saturday we started the day with our weekly trip to the vet. BamBam is getting better but it will take time for everything to clear up. Her spirits are great and she eats like, well, a dog. (Ha) In the early afternoon we all went downtown and had a massage. Cynthia commented that it was like a slumber party when we were all handed our 'pajamas' to wear. It was an hour well spent.
In the evening we went to the Night Bazaar for dinner at our favorite restaurant and then tackled the Walking Street. This week it was just as wild as last time. Right in the middle of it all there was a DJ set up and some guys break-dancing. Once we got past the crowd around them we slowly made our way down the side of the street we didn't get to last week. There were more 'ready made' things as opposed to the crafts on the other end but we still saw lots of interesting things. The main thing was the experience. It looked as though the whole town was there.
Sunday morning we had an early call since they had to be at the airport at 8:50. Before we left, Lynn took a 'family portrait' of our little household. BamBam didn't cooperate at first, but she finally settled down and he got a good pic. When I get it from him I'll post it. At the airport we said our good-byes and sent them on their way.
Today was rather mellow. BamBam came to our door this morning but we were still asleep. We didn't hear her because she lost the little bell on her collar. What a dog. Speaking of animals, we have new neighbors. There are two cows living in what used to be the corn field behind our house. There's a big brown bull and a white cow. This afternoon we were watching them and taking pictures and I decided to 'Moo'. It got a quick response from the cow. She 'Mooed' back and the bull turned around to see who the new suitor was. Oh my.
Did a little banking, hit Big C and visited the 'Eye Shop'. I had my contacts upgraded and Lisa got some glasses for close work when she's painting. The weather today was the complete opposite of what it had been. Summer was back and we had to put on some cool clothes.
Have a Wonderful Week.

Peace,
Danny

"Believe as a child believes
and the magic will find you."
~Teresa Langdon

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Thursday, November 20, 2008

Greatness

Hi,
Greetings from the north of Thailand. Today was a good day, like all the rest. Our friends from America arrived for a visit and we got to play tour guide for a bit. We saw the sights as you will soon see.
The hints may have been too easy for some, but for others it was a welcome challenge. I hope I get even more mail today.
"You like to think that you're immune to the stuff, who-oh. It's closer to the truth to say you can't get enough. You know you're gonna have to face it you're __ __ __" Clue: I suppose by some stretch of the imagination, this could be called a love song. It could also be seen as an intervention of sorts.
This morning I tried out the pressure washer we got at Big C. After making the necessary connections I took a deep breath, ran across the yard and turned on the water. Then it was a mad dash to the machine to turn it on. It worked like a charm. It's a slow process, trying to focus the spray on the terrazzo since it's made of tiny little stones. Once I got my rhythm I could see the true colors reappear. The thought kept occurring to me that I should have insisted on rain gutters across the back of the house. Anyway, I now have a solution for the clean up. In a way, it was kinda fun. Next time I'll know just how to approach the job and save a little time.
We went to the airport for the one o'clock arrival of our friends Cynthia and Lynn. They used to live in Culver City and now live in Prescott, Arizona. They flew up from Bangkok to spend a few days with us. We rolled down the highway to Big C for lunch at Black Canyon and then gave them a brief tour of the mall. From there we continued south to Wat Rong Khun for the obligatory visit to this awesome place. Lynn is a photographer and he took full advantage of the splendor of the intricate designs.
When we finally got to the house they were greeted by BamBam and Boot. They are 'dog people' and Bam has new friends. We hung out for the rest of the afternoon and then enjoyed a great meal that Boot prepared.
This evening we went to the Night Bazaar. After being in Bangkok for two days, they really enjoyed the slower pace of our little town. It's Tourist Season now and the place was packed. Our guests did some light shopping and we noticed that many things have been changed since our last visit. Some of our favorite stalls are now in different locations so we're going to have to get used to the new design. It should benefit the vendors since it seems to give better access for shoppers.
Tomorrow we get picked up by a van with an English speaking driver at ten in the morning and we head out to see the country to the north of us. Stay tuned for what looks like a busy day on the road.
Have a Dynamic Thursday.

Peace,
Danny

"Don't try to be a great person, just try to be a good person.
And if you can succeed at being a good person,
then you have found greatness."
~Don Heitkamp

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Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Things

Hi,
It appears that the forecast for rain was wishful thinking. We had another beautiful, clear day here in Chiang Rai. We spent the day at home, received a new cooking device and got invited to the opera.
Looks like the second day clue got you all on board. "Summer Breeze" by Seals and Crofts sprang into your minds and we're all feeling rather happy. That means I am obligated to try and throw you a curve on this next one. I know you know this one.
"Your lights are on, but you're not home, your mind is not your own. Your heart sweats, your body shakes, another kiss is what it takes..." Clues: The late singer had trade-mark videos, had a dapper wardrobe and the subject of the song could use rehab.
This morning, as with every Wednesday, the pool guys came and did their thing. Johan dropped by to look over the pool and pick up a frozen pump. In the course of conversation he mentioned that a new hotel in town is presenting an evening of dinner and opera. So, next Friday we're going to the Meridian Hotel with our friends Jane, Ruud and Johan for a little La Boheme.
This afternoon we got a surprise visit from Tay. We mentioned to her yesterday that we were looking for a BBQ. Today she brought a small one over on her motorbike. It's actually more like an hibachi, but it could work for something. We'll keep looking for a real BBQ.
Some of you responded to my request for phone numbers but most of you didn't. What's up with that? Are you really out there? (555) I'd also like to know if any of you in SoCal have been affected by the fires. So, now you have a reason to write.
Have a Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"The only things we ever keep are the things we give away."
~Louis Ginsberg

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Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Say So

Hi,
Today was a day for a doggie bath, drilling holes, and a visit from friends. It was a laid back day on the compound and that was just fine.
A couple of you figured out the song and that was good. There were also some guesses and that's good to. At least you're making a stab at it. I think today's lyric will really make it clear as to what the song is and even if you just get the song, cool.
"__ __ makes me feel fine, blowing through the jasmine in my mind..." Hint: Less than wind during the warm part of the year. There was a notable R&B cover of this song that some of you may remember.
Lisa and Boot gave BamBam her medicated bath today. Afterwards she had to wear her collar until she was dry. She didn't like that since she's been running free for four days. Have to remember that she's a dog. Hmm. It seems that since she's gotten better she's more mellow. She comes upstairs and like to hang out with us. Also, she may be finally learning that it's not Ok to bite. Playful bites, but bites just the same and it's not something to encourage. It's hard to believe that she's seven months old. Seems like she's been with us for a long time.
Drilling holes is a reference to hanging pictures. Three more went up in the bedroom today and it's starting to look fuller and lived in.
This afternoon I fooled around with a new sprinkler we got at Big C. There isn't a uniform size for faucets, connections or hoses so it takes a bit of doing to match this with that and make it work. I'll be scouring the hardware stores to find the proper adapters to make it easier to change connections of various things. There's a lot of green space that needs water, now that the rainy season is over. Speaking of rain, we may get a bit this week if one can believe the forecasters.
Tay and her friend Tam came by for a visit late this afternoon. We had a good time talking about many things. We also learned a bunch of new words since they speak English and like to teach us Thai. When Tam saw Lisa's latest 'Dancer' painting he immediately recognized the style of the costume as being from southern Thailand. Then we learned that there are two different words for dancing. One for traditional and one for popular. So much to learn.
Time for another Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"Looking back, I have this to regret,
that too often when I loved, I did not say so."
~David Grayson


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Monday, November 17, 2008

Gratitude

Hi,
This weekend we walked, we shopped and we stuck our toes in the water but couldn't go in. I made a new friend from the other side of the world and we hung more of Lisa's paintings.
The weekend song, that many of you knew but didn't bother to tell me was "I'll Try Something New" by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles. We'll start the week with another one of those songs that you know, but probably don't realize from lyrics.
"See the curtains hanging in the window, in the evening on a Friday night. A little light a-shining through the window lets me know everythings alright." Clues: It's by a duo made up of two last names singing about the state of the weather, sort of.
Saturday evening we went to the 'Walking Street' here in town. Two blocks of a street were blocked off and venders of all kinds were set up on either side and down the middle. Walking traffic went down one side and then made a 'U Turn' and continued on the opposite side. The crowd was huge. We had no idea it would be like that. We saw things we'd never seen before. Stuff we'd never seen at the Night Bazaar. There were lots of wonderful gift ideas as well as things for daily life. And of course, there was food everywhere. We ran into an old neighbor from the rental house days and that was nice. BamBam got a new sweater and I bought a waffle from the man who was our overnight security guard during the building of the house. I'm sure we'll be going back since we only covered one of the two blocks.
Late Saturday night we turned on Thai TV and watched a bit of one of the performances that was being held as part of the cremation ceremony for Princess Galyani, sister of the King. One of the performances lasted seven hours. It began at 11 pm and ended at 6 am. Earlier in the day we watched the various processions that were part of the ceremony. Literally, a cast of thousands were involved in this final tribute to the much loved Princess. People began gathering at 4 in the morning to witness the proceedings.
Sunday evening I spent some time with a young man from Dublin, Ireland who got my number from a friend in Chiang Mai. He was here to do some volunteer work at an Akha village north of Chiang Rai. It was interesting to get a travelers perspective of northern Thailand.
Today we went to Mae Sai for our 90 day check in with the immigration office. It takes almost an hour to get up there and the check in is a matter of filling out a form with our current address and when we entered the country. After about 20 minutes we were back on the highway headed for home. We stopped at Tesco-Lotus, a very nice department/grocery type store, and did some shopping for items we can't usually find in Chiang Rai. We made it home for a late lunch and a little relaxation.
The afternoon was spent hanging paintings in various places and planning for more. I suspect that over time we'll have to do some rotating in order to display all of the beautiful art that Lisa has produced. Just not enough wall space.
Have a Wonderful Week.

Peace,
Danny

"Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity:
it must be produced and discharged and used up
in order to exist at all."
~William Faulkner

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Friday, November 14, 2008

Friday Funnies

Hi,
Shhhh. You hear that? That's right. Nothing. No fireworks, no thumping bass, no heavy traffic. I'm not complaining, I love a good party, but after four days it gets a little tired.
The last song we played with was "Baby, I Love Your Way" by Peter Frampton. For the weekend song think harp intro.
"I will build you a castle with a tower so high, it reaches the moon...give you lovin' warm as mama's oven and it that won't do then __ __ __ __" Hint: It would be a miracle if some of you don't remember this one. Oh, and if you were born too late, try something new and search. You may be surprised. (Ha) In case you didn't read carefully, I just gave you the title and the artist. My weekend gift to you.
I spent almost four hours at my friendly Toyota dealer today. This time I remembered to take my iPod. I watched TV coverage of some of the Loy Krathong festivities in Bangkok and learned more about the four day cremation ceremonies for the Princess that began today. While I was waiting for my second car wash in two days, I got to know Keng, a young man who works there and speaks English.
We have a pretty busy Saturday coming up, but it's all neat stuff. There's a street market that started a few weeks ago and we've been meaning to check it out. We found out that Paladorn and his family will be there selling his greeting cards so we'll try to connect with them and stroll around.
Another driving observation: In New Zealand they have a term for what cars should do when traffic goes from two lanes to one. It's called 'Zipping'. Logical and easy to visualize. Cars take turns entering the single lane. In Chiang Rai the zipper is stuck. That's all I'm going to say on that one. Oh, if you're on a motorbike and the traffic is heavy, it's apparently acceptable to use the opposing lane to gain an advantage. Hmm. Please don't try this one. (555)
It's time for the 'Funnies'. Have a Cool WeekEnd.

Peace,
Danny

Bumper Stickers

"Very funny, Scotty. Now beam down my clothes."
EARTH FIRST! We'll stripmine the other planets later.

Make it idiot proof and someone will make a better idiot.

He who laughs last thinks slowest!

Give me ambiguity or give me something else.

A flashlight is a case for holding dead batteries.

Lottery: A tax on people who are bad at math.

Consciousness: that annoying time between naps.

I don't suffer from insanity. I enjoy every minute of it.

Okay, who put a "stop payment" on my reality check?

Few women admit their age. Few men act theirs.

We have enough youth, how about a fountain of SMART?


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Thursday, November 13, 2008

Fire

Hi,
We had a lazy day at the Big Brown House. We were all kinda sluggish since we didn't get to bed until about 1:30 a.m. Number 12 was the official date for Loy Krathong, but this afternoon Boot informed us that the 12th was Lek Loy Krathong (Lek means small) and that tonight was Yi Loy Krathong (Yi means big). Oh.
I was shocked and amazed that so many of you knew the song on the first day. Many of you remembered the bright-eyed, long haired guitarist who gave us this song. Maybe this next line will rattle the memories of the rest of you.
"But don't hesitate 'cuz your love won't wait. Ooooh, __ __ __ __ __, every day. Want to be with you night and day..."
Today was the day for BamBam to get her medicated bath. This time Lisa and Boot gave her a shower and then used a big tub to soak her in her 'treatment'. She cooperated with the whole thing and afterward, got to run around the yard for a bit without her big cone collar. She was in heaven. We're hoping that after her Saturday visit to the doctor that it can come off for good.
There are lots of little things that make life here rather special. This morning Boot asked us what we'd like to eat today. Lisa mentioned a dish she makes with little fried fish pieces. This afternoon I heard the doorbell and opened the gate. A young man wearing tall rubber boots and carrying a bag entered the property. It turns out he was the fish guy delivering the makings for our dinner. That's what I call service. Oh, and dinner was yummy.
I had to go into town this evening and decided to take the usual route, which goes right by the festival grounds. It was early and it didn't seem like the crowd was going to be as big as yesterday. Well, it was just gearing up and I got to see what happens as the throngs arrive. At 6:45 there were already hundreds of motorbikes neatly parked on the side of the road. Policemen were directing traffic to parking lots and bikes were swooping in and out of lanes. I managed to get past it all and get to my destination. By 8 o'clock the town was really going strong. There was traffic everywhere so I came home by what we call 'the back way'. Up the highway and through another village.
The whole idea of this holiday is to give thanks to the river by sending little baskets made from banana leaves and covered with flowers and incense down the river. The word Loy means to float. Krathong is the name for the little basket. The balloons symbolize letting your problems float away into the sky. Not sure where the fireworks enter into all this, but they're still going off. Theoretically, tonight should be the end of it. We'll see.
Have a Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"You get the best effort from others
not by lighting a fire beneath them,
but by building a fire within."
~Bob Nelson

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Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Formula

Hi,
A giant full moon, a sky full of fire, a river full of lights and the sounds of music and thunder. That's what's happening as I write to you. It's Loy Krathong in all its splender.
Some of you remembered "Anyone Who Had A Heart" by Dionne Warwick. Some of you were too young. Paul wrote that he had a Fisher-Price radio with colorful buttons and dials. So that's why he didn't know the song. (I hope you got that) Onward and upward with another challenging piece of musical history. "Shadows grow so long before my eyes, and they're moving across the page. Suddenly the day turns into night, far away from the city. But don't hesitate, 'cuz your love won't wait. Ooooh __ __ __ __ __ everyday" Clues: This mid 70s hit was a live recording and the first release by this artist. We loved the way his guitar literally talked to us. Hmm.
I went out to Toyota again today to get some brake work done. They were all booked up so I go back on Friday. During the course of finding all this out, the woman helping me called a young man who speaks English. After he explained the booking problem, he asked me where I was from. This is the question everyone wants to know. Where are people from. I suppose I'm just as curious at Venice Beach when I see what appear to be tourists. Here, it's obvious as to who the 'outsiders' are. When they learn that you live here there are even more questions. When I'm by myself, there's the question of marriage. When they learn that I'm married, then it's 'do you have a Thai wife?'. When they discover that my wife is American, there's a warm smile that comes over their faces. It's as if we really must love their country, that I didn't come here for a woman. Some people even say 'good'. Hmm. Just thought I'd share some new insights.
This evening after dinner, Boot lit three candles and set them on the back deck. Then the three of us went out on the lawn and sent three balloons into the night. In case you tuned in late, the balloons/lanterns are made of very thin paper. They're about four feet tall and have a flammable ring at the bottom. The fire from the ring produces hot air which makes the balloon rise and fly away. Hence, fire in the sky.
The moon is so full that it looks like you could touch it. It's so bright that it's hard to look at for too long. We stood in the back yard, heads thrown back, watching our giant paper lantern sail up and away. The way the breeze was blowing, ours drifted over toward the river and joined the flow of lights coming from the banks.
We decided to stay at home and just enjoy the show from across the river. It seems like the intensity of the whole celebration is greater than last year and we just didn't feel like dealing with the crowd, the noise and the random fireworks being hurled about. So, we can see fireworks, balloon releases and enjoy the energy from our upstairs window. BamBam has been sitting out there with Lisa while I type. For a while she was sitting on Lisa's lap, watching the lights.
It's after 10 p.m. and the party is still going strong. Time for you to have a Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"The most important single ingredient in the formula of
success is knowing how to get along with people."
~Theodore Roosevelt

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Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Forgiveness

Hi,
It was a mild winter day in 'The Rai'. We made a visit to the vet without the dog, and I spent the afternoon in the guest lounge at Toyota, and BamBam got new stuff.
I love it when you send me email. That's what happens when I give you an easy one. See, there's a method to my madness.
"__ __ __ __ __ would take me in his arms and love me, too...what am I to do?" Hint: Anyone who had a radio in the 60s heard this singer.
Today the temps were in the mid 70s, which feels cold when it's been in the high 80s and 90s for months. That's not so bad, but by late afternoon, the bottom falls out and it drops into the mid 50s at night. Last winter it didn't feel so bad because we hadn't been here long enough to be totally acclimated to the weather. Now it's a different story. We understand why there is a drive every year to collect warm clothes for people who can't afford them. Some get very sick when the weather gets cold. It occurred to me that I haven't worn socks in months. Hmm.
This morning we went over to the vet's to get a refill on one of BamBam's meds. As we were exiting the truck, I noticed a familiar face in the truck that pulled up behind us. It was our artist friend Paladorn and his wife. They were bringing a little dog to the doctor. The dog had been bitten by a cobra the day before and they had rushed it to the vet. Dr. Arkon had to do CPR to revive the dog and managed to get her stable. She still looked traumatized today but she's going to be alright. Paladorn and his family have 16 dogs, a colt, and numerous other animals that they've rescued. They live in the hills south of town.
While we were at the vet's we got Bam a bed since the floor in Boot's room is tile and it's very cold. We also got her a cute little sweater. This afternoon Boot put the bed on the floor in the kitchen and BamBam was afraid of it. With a little coaxing and petting she tried it and now she loves it. Boot took the bed to her place and they took their afternoon naps. After dinner Lisa and Boot put the little sweater on her and, well, she looked real cute. Before now, I was not one for dressing up dogs but it's cold and her little immune system is still a bit compromised. We'll have to take some fashion shots soon.
This afternoon I took the truck to Toyota for its regular maintenance. I forgot to take my iPod but I did take some lyrics to a song I'm reviving. Some of the time passed in conversation with a nurse who asked me where I was from, in English. The usual questions about what do you do, why are you here, do you like it and so on. Oh, and I had a chance to see part of the soap I watched at the hair salon. Don't know what they said, but the acting is just campy enough that you can sort of figure some of it out. Hmm, this could get serious. (555)
Even if you don't know the song, send me an email with your phone number(s). I may just use it when I'm over there next month.
Have a Happy Tuesday.

Peace,
Danny

"Forgiveness is not an occasional act; it is a permanent attitude."
~Martin Luther King, Jr.


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Monday, November 10, 2008

To Serve

Hi,
Chiang Rai is buzzin', winter has entered, and the sky is filled with colors. Yes, Loy Krathong is in full swing and you can feel it all over town.
The weekend song was "Little Egypt" by The Coasters. Oh, now you remember. This one should be easy. It starts with this:
"Anyone who ever loved could look at me And know that I love you. Anyone who ever dreamed could look at me and know I dream of you..." Clues: By a singer who had a string of major hits written by the same writing team. If you walk on by this one, you weren't listening in the mid 60s. At least you should be able to get the artist from the clues. (Ha)
Last night we were treated to a brief but colorful fireworks show that we watched from our bedroom window. There were also lots of very loud booms and whistles. Early this morning, I got the true meaning of 'cold snap'. I was awakened with the undeniable feeling of coldness. What happened? When we went to bed it was the usual moderate, pleasant temperature. I had to put on a long sleeve shirt and a blanket was put on the bed. The day was cool and tonight it's cold again. From what we read, it's like Culver City weather. So, I'm officially declaring that winter has begun.
We live in the village of Namlat. There is a big school behind the corn field to the north and beyond that is the temple. The last couple of evenings there has been chanting and music coming from the temple. This afternoon there was a band concert at the school, complete with lots of brass and a big drum corps. They played some very involved horn arrangements and I enjoyed it. It's also where a lot of the fireworks are set off.
To the south of us, across the road, there's another corn field and then the Maekok River. On the other side of the river is the fairground where major celebrations take place. To put it mildly, the joint is jumpin'. Also, there are colorful lights strung across all the major roads and some have big lanterns hanging from them. And to think, Loy Krathong isn't until number 12. Hmm.
Johan came over today to look at the pool. He's been in Holland for the past three weeks. At one point we started talking about the festival and the fireworks. He told me that in the village where he lives there used to be a fireworks competition. The monks of the village, along with anyone else who wanted to join in, would brew up a mixture of gunpowder and metal bits. They'd cook this concoction over a fire (What?) and then pour it into a big fat piece of bamboo. The bamboo would then be buried in the ground. There would be six or seven of these in a row. Each one would be lit and a giant explosion would shoot fire 30 meters into the night air. They would all be judged and I guess a prize was given to the winner. Don't try this at home.
Our neighbors gave us a package of 'balloons' this afternoon. These are the big paper cylinders that are lit and then set off to fly into the night sky. We'll probably send ours up tomorrow night. It's all very surreal.
Have a Great Week.

Peace,
Danny

"Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve.
You don't have to have a college degree to serve.
You don't have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve.
You don't have to know about Plato and Aristotle to serve.
You don't have to know Einstein's theory of relativity to serve.
You don't have to know the second theory of thermodynamics to serve.
You only need a heart full of grace.
A soul generated by love."
~Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Friday, November 7, 2008

Friday Funnies

Hi,
Today was a busy day. We had rain, more muscle therapy, a noodle hunt, a road trip and a beautiful sunset. Life is good up here in Chiang Rai.
"Happy Together" by The Turtles was the song some of us were humming without shame. For the weekend hum this one:
"I went and bought myself a ticket and I sat down in the very first row, wo wo. They pulled the curtain but then when they turned the spotlight down low wo wo. __ __ came out struttin' wearing nothin' but a button and a bow wo wo, singin' 'Yeah, Yeah'...." Clues: It's an oldie from one of the greatest R&B groups of all time. Set your drink on their namesake and enjoy the show. There's a slight connection to the Nile in here somewhere.
This morning we had follow-up treatments from Alan and Ten. Ten did some more work on my back and neck and then gave my diaphragm a tune-up. Lisa got more help for her 'flu shoulder' and other things. At one point, while Ten was working on Lisa, I played some tracks of a didgeridoo artist that I like and Alan tuned into the sound and tried some things on my stomach. Very interesting.
We went to the southeast part of town to look for 'Local noodles', as Ten called them. He had a yearning to have them the way they're made in Chiang Rai. He grew up here and said that the noodle dishes in Chiang Mai don't have the same flavor. We turned onto a street that had lots of small, outdoor noodle shops. We crept along while Ten checked them out. We weren't sure just what he was looking for, but it turned out he was looking for a clean one. We found a spot and enjoyed a delicious lunch. We didn't get to have noodles because the only make them with beef or pork. We settled for stir-fried rice with chicken. Yum.
After lunch we continued east to the village where Ten grew up. He told us that his Grandparents were the first to settle in the area when it was still jungle. Now there are several generations living in sort of a family compound in Chi Na Rai. We met many family members and saw the land they plan to build on someday. We also saw two of the most beautiful brahma bulls ever. They were a dark brown with black around the edges. And they were huge.
Back to the house to pack the truck, say good-byes and head for the bus station. We had a great time visiting, getting treated and learning more about Thailand. Next time we're in Chiang Mai, we'll make sure we visit Ten at their 'shop'.
We hung out on the patio with Boot, while BamBam chased her ball and acted like a teenager. After dinner we stood in the upstairs shower and looked at a stunning sunset full of bright pinks and dark clouds. Lately it's been some kind of awesome view every evening. I have a picture of one sunset that had rays of different colors beaming up from the earth. I'll post it this weekend.
Speaking of WeekEnd, have a good one and enjoy the 'Funnies' sent in by my friend Claire.

Peace,
Danny


* Last night, I lay in bed looking up at the stars in the sky and thought to myself, "Where the heck is the ceiling?"

* Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons because, to them, you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup.

* The main purpose of holding children's parties is to remind yourself that there are children more awful than your own.

* Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film.



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Thursday, November 6, 2008

Determined

Hi,
The rainy season may be over, but the rain isn't. Last night we had another hard rain and today we had an afternoon shower. Not complaining though, since it didn't interfere with any activities. Today was a day for light shopping and house guests.
Even through the news of the day, a bunch of you managed to send me the name of the song and the artists. We love easy ones don't we. If you didn't get it on the first round, this should help: "Me and you, and you and me, no matter how they toss the dice it had to be. The only one for me is you and you for me, so __ __ " Hint: There's a section in the song where the lyrics are simply "Bah bah bah bah bah..." Great for singing along if you don't know the words.
You may remember my telling you about Alan and Ten who paid us a visit a few months ago. Well, Alan is back in the country and they came up from Chiang Mai for an overnight stay. They came on the big bus, armed with their massage tables this time. After they had lunch, we were treated to three hours of therapeutic massage. Many little problem areas have been 'melted' away and I'm feeling great. Tomorrow we'll go to Ten's village and meet his family and see the property they bought.
BamBam hadn't seen our guests until she woke up from her afternoon nap. When she looked in through the back doors she saw two strangers and two big tables in the living room. She went off. Guard dog on duty. Boot had to take her back inside. After we were done we brought her in and with a little coaxing and treats from our guests, she calmed down and became friendly. She has figured out how to soothe her tummy by crawling on the grass. It's not something she should be doing, but it was quite inventive. Such a smart little dog.
The phrase 'It's up to you' is something you hear a lot around here. Take the Samlor driver I spotted riding down the street at night. He had a headlight but it was off. I realized that he knew where he was going, so why turn on the light? It can get a little frustrating when asking for advice though. A friendly smile and 'It's up to you'. No, I wanted you to give me an opinion. I suppose it keeps one from getting too involved in someone else's business. Hmm.
Have a Great Thursday and remember, 'It's up to you'.

Peace,
Danny

"One determined person can make a significant difference; a
small group of determined people can change the course of
history."
~Sonia Johnson

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Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Heart

Hi,
This has certainly been an exciting day. We woke up during your Tuesday and immediately turned on CNN and the BBC. Going back and forth gave us a broader perspective. A world view, so to speak. Here in Thailand, there was great interest in the outcome of the race for president. We've had many conversations which were initiated by Thais, about their opinions of the candidates. Some of our friends have been following the race since the beginning of the primary. With all the governmental changes that take place here, they're used to discussing politics openly. There is a term that's used here to describe a special unseen quality in a person. It's 'jai di' and it means 'good heart'. We've been hearing this term over and over as people tell us about our new president. So, you're living through an historical era. Pay attention.
Well, my hat's off to Ricardo for being the only one to pick the song. "I'm A Loser" by The Beatles was the one I was looking for. Now all the clues make sense. Here's one you know: "Imagine me and you, I do, I think about you day and night, it's only right to think about the girl you love..." Hint: This group is named after an animal who is never homeless. It's a happy, mushy song but it's good for you.
This morning we had early arrivals from the pool guys and the yard platoon. By the end of the day everything was neat, trimmed and sparkling. We spent the day at the house monitoring election returns, hanging out with BamBam and just relaxing and reflecting.
In the late afternoon Boot went to get a massage. The gate was opened for the yard guys and we didn't realize we had visitors until BamBam sat up and headed for the door. We thought she needed to go out but she heard people downstairs. Our watchdog was on her job. It was Sutheera and Nukhun with bananas and information about silk screeners. We had a nice visit and talked about weather, yard upkeep, flowers, and of course, the election.
Now it's time for Wacky Wednesday.

Peace,
Danny

"The human heart feels things the eyes cannot see,
and knows what the mind cannot understand."
~Robert Valett

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Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Within

Hi,
I'm just winding down my Tuesday here in Chiang Rai. You're just starting yours (in most cases). It's election day in the U.S.A. and I know you're going to vote. Today I explored a new 'hood' and made some discoveries.
So far, no one has figured out the song. I'm giving you the last verse and the chorus in hopes that it rings a bell. Oh well.
"What have I done to deserve such a fate? I realize I have left it too late. And so it's true, pride comes before a fall. I'm telling you so that you won't lose all. __ __ __, and I lost someone who's near to me. __ __ __, and I'm not what I appear to be." Clues: Four lads from Liverpool, the singer wore four rings, and every election has two possible outcomes.
Yesterday I mentioned that we got our flu shots. Well, what I didn't tell you was that the young woman who gave them to us must have failed 'Injection 101' because they were placed on the shoulder instead of the upper arm, and today Lisa is having lots of discomfort. Mine is sore, which is usually the case, but it has affected our mobility to some extent. Next time I'll draw a target.
This afternoon we went over to Tay's beauty salon on the east side of town. While Lisa was getting her hair done I went out to check out some motorbikes. I ended up strolling around a corner and found an artist who had a little open-air gallery/store. He had some abstracts in acrylic and some work he did with coffee. You read right, coffee. The effect was various degrees of brown tones and it was quite unique. We bought one of his beautiful, small wood carvings.
Right down the street from the artist was a little shop that carried all the custom accessories I've been seeing on the motorbikes around town. The red and green headlights, custom tires and rims and low-profile seats. It took me back to my days on Crenshaw Bl. and 'Cycle Boutique'. Having major flashbacks since that was the early 70s.
When I returned to the salon, I watched a Thai soap and a dance competition show where the contestants were kids. There were three couples and they each did a Tango routine and a Jitterbug. Very good dancers for the most part.
BamBam is slowly getting better and still being a doll about it all. When we went to get in the truck she tried real hard to come with us. She's been riding around a lot lately and now I guess she figures we're going to take her with us.
It's time for a Happy Tuesday and it's also time for you to go vote.

Peace,
Danny

"What lies behind us and what lies before us
are small matters compared to what lies within us."
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Monday, November 3, 2008

Realize

Hi,
And we're back. After a laid-back weekend, another week begins. That is, if you call two trips to the vet laid-back. Other than that, there was no real adventure involved, just taking it easy.
I expected a lot more mail than I got for the song. Some of us were humming "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing" by Stevie Wonder. Let's start the week with a country-ish song that should be familiar. A bunch of people will be singing this one.
"Although I laugh and I act like a clown, beneath this mask I am wearing a frown..." Hint: The drummer sang this one and so will lots of politicians on Wednesday. Hmm.
Little BamBam is really going through a lot these days. We took her to a new vet on Saturday morning since her rash got worse. The new doctor is very efficient and we got the real story. BamBam is now on new medication and has to wear one of those big collars so she can't lick or bite the problem area. It didn't take her long to adapt to her new appendage. She figured out that she needs to hold her head up when bounding up the stairs, she can pick up her toys and toss them and she can eat and drink like a pro. She's crashing into everything including us but she hasn't lost her enthusiasm.
Boot is slowly getting over her bout with the flu. It's been hard for her because she wants to keep doing her regular duties and we keep telling her to take it easy. Between her and Bam, it's been quite a time.
Speaking of the flu, today we went to the hospital and got flu shots. We forgot how crowded things can get on Monday morning, but we stuck it out and got stuck.
We're approaching the festival of Loy Krathong. That's on November 12 and it already sounds like the Fourth of July around here. Fireworks are a big thing and there must have been a big shipment from China judging from the sound of things. There are some aerial devices going off, but mostly things that make small firecrackers sound like whispers. Thunderous explosions go off mostly in the evening. Some of them sound like dynamite. One can only guess what it will sound like when the holiday actually arrives.
We had overnight rains for a couple of nights but the days have been pretty nice. Oh, we stayed up for the last Gran Prix, which started at midnight Sunday night.
Have a Wonderful Week.

Peace,
Danny

"Fame or integrity: which is more important?
Money or happiness: which is more valuable?
Success or failure: which is more destructive?
If you look to others for fulfillment,
you will never truly be fulfilled.
If your happiness depends on money,
you will never be happy with yourself.
Be content with what you have;
rejoice in the way things are.
When you realize that nothing is lacking,
the whole world belongs to you!"
~Lao Tzu


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