Soul

Hi,

Most of our weekend was cloudy and warm.  The nights have warmed up so the mornings are easier (555).  

Well, the ‘Old School Friday’ song, that only a few remembered, was “Wonderful World” by Sam Cooke.  I just know you know this one from ’66:  “I need to laugh, and when the sun is out, I’ve got something I can laugh about.  I feel good in a special way.  I’m in love and it’s a sunny day.  __ __ __, __ __ __, __ __ __.”  Hint: There are two references to the title in the first verse.  

Saturday was a day of surprises.  We had showers during the afternoon, and then a big rain later that night.  It rained hard and everyone was happy.  The air got washed, the plants were watered thoroughly, and it didn’t keep us from having a nice Sunday.  Neechanon discovered the joy of puddles, walking through a couple, and then jumping into one and watching the water splash.  

We went to ArtBridge for an exhibit opening that was wonderful.  We’ve known the artist for a few years and watched her work progress.  We got home just before the big storm hit.  Right on time for popcorn.

On Sunday we had our usual lunch at The Wanderer and dinner at Sawadee in the Night Bazaar.  The influx of visitors is really having an effect on all of the destination restaurants.  The Wanderer, Chivit Tamma Da, and the district near the Clock Tower are all seeing van loads of tourists, especially on the weekends.  In addition to the many Thais that have discovered Chiang Rai, there are busloads of Chinese travelers descending on our little town.  For some, business is great, and for others it’s life as usual.  It just struck me that tourists are looking for unusual items to take home.  Some merchants are stocking things you can buy anywhere in the region so there’s no incentive.  Hmm.  

Sunday afternoon Gong and Natcha took Neechanon to the mall.  There is a children’s play area on the top floor, near the theaters and the junk food (how convenient).  Apparently, she had a ball on the little rides, and the things they have to climb around on.  She loves to climb, so I’m not surprised.  Today, when they went to get her from her aunt’s house, she didn’t want to leave, she was having a good time at ‘school’.

We had a video call with our friends Stephen and Claire, who now live in Perth, Australia.  We’re planning to visit them while they have time off during the Easter weekend.  Stephen was recently participating in a Triatholon when things got a little strange.  They had to cancel the swimming part due to sharks in the water, and one of the cyclists got knocked off his bike by a kangaroo, and there was a brush fire - stuff I would never have imagined could happen.  They laughed about it, but I’m sure all eyes will be on the ocean and the bush during the next one.

This morning we went to Starbuck’s at the mall for coffee.  The courtyard was set up like a nightclub, with tables for four, complete with white tablecloths and planters.  There was a small stage on one side and a little tent marked artists.  Today’s photo is the line-up for the concert.  Chang will no doubt sell a lot of beer at this one.  And just what does ‘Sensory Trails’ mean?

I’m going back to Bangkok on Wednesday for another treatment from Juan.  This time Lisa’s going with me.  Two crazy kids on a day trip to the big city.  

Have a Great Week.

                 Peace,

                           Danny

“I shall allow no man to belittle 

my soul by making me hate him.”

~Booker T. Washington