Friday Funnies

Hi,

Chiang Rai had an almost rain-free day.  We had a brief mid-day downpour that watered everything but barely cooled the air at all.  This evening there is thunder in the distance, but that doesn’t necessarily mean anything.

The 'Middle Song' was “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King.  The ‘Old School Friday’ song really was by The Drifters.  

“When this old world starts getting me down, and people are just too much for me to face (__ __ __ __).

I climb way up to the top of the stairs, and all my cares just drift right into space (__ __ __ __).  __ __ __, it’s peaceful as can be.  And there, the world below can’t bother me… __ __ __ __.”  Hint:  The lyrics give it away.  The upper-most part of a building.  Yeah, that should do it.

This morning we weren’t sure when the people from True TV would come to update the software so we took a chance and went to The Wanderer for coffee.  If they needed us, we would be 5 minutes away.  While we were there, a man took the table next to us and ordered some food.  Lisa stepped away to visit Kwan and he struck up a conversation.  His opening line was, “This is a wonderful place to have breakfast”.  He’s from London, comes to Thailand every 2 months to visit his children in Bangkok and this was his first visit to ‘the woods’.  Then it was the usual questions after finding out that we lived here.  You know, where are you from, blah, blah.  Before we left, I walked over to say ‘Hello’ to Mercy.  She gave me a very vocal greeting, I howled back and she said something else and we said goodbye.  I have howled with her since we first met, about 2 years ago and I guess she thinks I’m a relative of some kind (555).

Gong made us a delicious lunch of roasted chicken, sticky rice, and a sauce for dipping the rice that we’d never had before.  

The TV guys finally came in the afternoon, after a phone call and some prodding by ‘the boss’.  

We got another photo of Jai Dee today.  He’s almost 7 weeks old in this one and looking like he might be a big boy.  Looks like he’s thinking, “I wish you’d put me down now”.

I have been invited to go to the Nuka (rice bran) baths on Sunday with Khun Somluk.  I did some reading on it and from what I can gather, it’s like a hot-tub of rice bran tea.  Good for the skin and invigorating.  There are lots of B-complex vitamins along with vitamin E.  I’ll fill you in on Monday, of course.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.    Don’t forget the ‘Funnies’ and Formula 1 from Belgium on Sunday.  Oh, and the U.S. Open Tennis from New York all weekend.  Whew.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

Ideal

Hi,

We had another hot, humid day in Chiang Rai.  No rain, but it might have been refreshing compared to the heaviness

hanging in the air.  

This is the week of The Drifters recordings.  In case your memory files were crashing trying to name the artist on the “Middle Song”, please accept my apologies.  It was co-written and recorded by a former member of The Drifters, as a solo artist.  Eventually, he got them to record the tune, so all is not lost.  “If the sky that we look upon, should crumble and fall, or the mountains should tumble to the sea.  No I won’t be afraid, no I won’t be afraid just as long as you __, __ __ __.  And darling, darling __ __ __, oh __ __ __, oh __, __ __ __, __ __ __.  Clue:  From the movie of the same name.

This morning we weren’t due at the hospital until 10:30am so we left the house early to explore and run errands.  Our coffee stop was at an Amazon Coffee shop near the Clock Tower.  We went there once during the smokey season, but the automatic doors kept letting the bad air inside.  Today was a different story.  One thing I’ll say for this shop, the coffee is cheap.  A small cup of coffee was $1.14, compared to as much as $2.28 at some shops.  What we got for the price was not bad, so we may return.  It’s not the same ambience we’ve been used to lately, more of an urban ‘busy’ vibe, but it’s close to the house.

For years, we have been asking people if there is a place that does dry cleaning.  We finally got a definitive answer from Atom and went on a quest this morning.  We found it and even left a couple of items for cleaning.  After that it was time to go to Bangkok Hospital for Lisa’s appointment.  Things are improving to the point where we now go every 3 days.  

Today was massage day at The Big Brown House.  Khun Jin worked from 1pm until 5pm, starting with Natcha, then me and finally Lisa for 2 hours.  I’m so happy that I can finally enjoy the benefits of a full oil massage.  Today Jin asked me if she had hurt me at all.  I gave her a big smile and said ‘No, I enjoyed it.’  

As we were finishing our dinner, we noticed Nitchanan riding her little bicycle in the driveway.  The next time she went by, Natcha was following her on the ‘big bike’.  They both looked happy and that prompted some stealth photography to catch the moment.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                             Peace,

                                       Danny

“A true and worthy ideal frees

and uplifts a people; a false ideal

imprisons and lowers.”

~W.E.B. Du Bois

Education

Hi,

Around 5am this morning we got some heavy rain.  It didn’t last long, but there was a lot of it.  The rest of the day went from blue sky to heavy clouds, but no more rain.  Parts of Thailand are due to get some heavy rain in the near future.  Chiang Rai wasn’t on the list, but we will keep an eye on the sky just in case.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “On Broadway” by The Drifters.  George Benson had a major hit years later.  Now it’s time for the ‘Middle Song’.  “When the night has come, and the land is dark, and the moon is the only light we will see.  No, I won’t be afraid, no I won’t be afraid, just as long as you __, __ __ __.”  Hint:  This song could easily be an ‘Easy Monday’ song.  Singer is asking for support.

We began our day with coffee at The Wanderer, where we met our friend Atom.  While we were waiting for her, we got a big ‘where have you been?’ greeting from Mercy.  She got Lisa to pet her a bunch and when I walked over, she began talking up a storm.  She had a lot to say and Kwan was quite surprised that she was being so vocal.  Mercy and I have a communication ‘thing’.  She has always talked to me.  This was the day we got the flowering plant that will commemorate Daku.  Our understanding is that it will become a small tree with big white flowers.  

Our TV provider is a company called True, a major provider of everything digital.  They announced, on screen, that 

they would be upgrading everyone’s tuner and dish by the end of this month.  It seemed a bit over confident to me, but rather than miss out, I called and set up an appointment.  Today was the day, between 1pm and 5pm, but no one showed up or called.  I called and rescheduled for Friday and we’ll see what happens.  If there are no major changes in what is being offered, then it’s no big deal, but if there are new channels that we might like and we miss out, I will be disappointed for a few minutes (555).  

On the way to my afternoon meeting, we tried going a different route.  The traffic was worse than before.  I’m thinking this is still being figured out.  It took longer to get to our destination so we’ll rethink the whole thing.  Coming home was no problem.  While we were sitting at a light by the main police station Lisa snapped today’s photo.  

This is where the traffic police sit when they’re not directing traffic.

I want to thank all of you who checked out the new video on Youtube.  If you have the time, I’d love it if you would go back and put a like on it and then click on the ‘subscribe’ button.  Eventually this will all have some meaning that is presently unclear to me (555).

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                            Peace,

                                      Danny

“If you don’t give education 

to the people, it is easy to

manipulate them.”

~Pele

Decide

Hi,

We seem to be getting a long break from the rain.  Today it was just hot and humid.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song sparked a few memories.  I’m pretty sure there are more of you who remember this tune because you responded to it in the past.  Oh, that pesky past.  “…But when you’re walkin’ down that street, and you ain’t had enough to eat, the glitter rubs right off and you’re nowhere (__ __)… Ha! They say that I won’t last too long __ __ (__ __).  I’ll catch the Greyhound bus for home, they all say (__ __).  But oh, they’re dead wrong, I know they are, ‘cause I can play this here guitar.  And I won’t quit till I’m a star __ __ (__ __).”  Clue:  That was the second half of the first verse and the last verse.  This group began recording in 1956.  The street is where one goes to see plays and musicals.

While we’re on the subject of music, Lisa posted another performance of mine from back in the day on Youtube.  Enjoy.      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4WAhhD-w4GU

This morning, after our Skype call with Joe, we went to Chivit Tamma Da for coffee/tea.  The tables by the river were all vacant so we had the same view as last week.  Sitting by the river in the mid-morning light never gets old.  

There are three bridges in Chiang Rai.  The oldest is near our house and is the shortest.  The next bridge that was built happens to be close to Chivit Tamma Da, and the most recent one is near The Wanderer.  Funny how that worked out.  To go into town from Chivit, we just get on the bridge and roll into town.  Today we stopped at Khun Orn’s shop for some garment alterations.  It’s always a surprise when she says they’ll be ready tomorrow.  

There is a shop on the highway that sells parts for almost everything that plugs into the wall, or projects sound.  We’ve been there a few times and today we needed batteries for our gate remotes.  They had them, and the tiny screwdrivers needed to open the remotes.  The place is rather dark inside, which makes leaving an experience.  It’s like walking out of a cave into the daylight.

The rest of the day consisted of lunch at the mall, no nap, and a new thing we’re doing:  A walk around the house, also known as garden appreciation.  

Today’s photo was taken this morning on the way to Chivit Tamma Da.  This plant is just growing wild and we have no idea what it is.  Yesterday, as we passed it, I thought it was a flower, but it’s not.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.”

~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Interrupt

Hi,

We had a fairly dry weekend in Chiang Rai.  There were times when it looked like it would storm, but it didn’t.  The temperatures were very hot, and muggy.

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “20th Century Fox” by The Doors.  Here’s an ‘Easy Monday’ song that will probably loop in your head for at least a day:  “They say the neon lights are bright __ __, (__ __).  They say there’s always magic in the air (__ __)…”  Hint:  Really?  Just remember this is the 1964 release of this tune and it’s by a group.

There is a street involved.

Saturday, we went on another quest for plant life.  The nursery collective on the Super Highway charges less, has more variety, and a more open feeling.  This is one of the larger plots, appearing to be ready for inspection.

Cat came over after her big English test and we went to Sabroso for Mexican dinner.  When we arrived, our friend Eddie was there and also our artist friends Siri, Keofar and their daughter Pepper.  It’s a small town.  It made dining out more fun, having friends right behind us.  While Lisa and Siri were talking about dogs, Cat and I had a deep discussion about the Amazon, which she initiated.  She is being more aware of current events and the world around her.  This is good.

We had our Sunday lunch at The Wanderer with our friend Atom and her friend Jay.  It was our first time meeting him and we really liked him.  He is from Korea and will be opening a facial massage salon in Chiang Rai in October.  On a cultural note, he brought a gift from his mother, who is an artist.  The technique is layered paper cuttings which are painted and then coated with varnish.  We learned a lot about each other and had a few laughs.  He is just learning English, but we managed to communicate.  It must be difficult to be in Thailand and not speak Thai or English and not have many friends who speak Korean.  He will be taking Thai lessons from a teacher who is a former translator, which should be interesting.    

This morning we went to Bangkok Hospital for a treatment and the doctor told Lisa he thinks it will be healed by the time we get Jai Dee.  He’s also a dog person and can relate.  I have been observing the hospital staff for many weeks and noticed that whenever a nurse or office staff person is explaining anything with a client or family member, they always kneel so that they are below the person they are serving.  This goes way back in Thai tradition. Personally, in that setting, feeling vulnerable and having someone hover over me would not be very comfortable.  There is more of a sense of caring this way.

We did coffee at Work@Home, where we gave Katai and Towan a puppy update.  Then we stopped by Teppawan Art Supply for a visit.  There was another ‘plant stop’ at what I call the ‘tiny nursery’ and our day in the street was complete.  

The U.S. Open Tennis Tournament begins this week so you know what to do (555).  I’ll be setting the recorder for the odd hours that we get the broadcast.  

Have a Great Week.

                      Peace,

                                Danny

“Interrupt anxiety 

with gratitude.”

~Unknown

Friday Funnies

Hi,

The rain teased us all day.  Never really happened, not that we were begging for it to happen (555).  I'm just about at that point where it’s time for daily rain to appear on a weekly basis.  Oh well, I can dream.

The ‘Zany Day’ song was “People Are Strange” by The Doors, of course.  ‘Old School Friday’ is also brought to you, courtesy of The Doors.  “Well, she’s fashionably lean and she’s fashionably late.  She’ll never rank a scene, she’ll never break a date.  But she’s no drag, just watch the way she walks, she’s a __ __ __, she’s a __ __ __.”  Hint:  Something to do with the last century and all.

This morning we went to the hospital again.  While Lisa was being treated, she had a conversation with the doctor about a giant statue that will be mounted on the hospital this Sunday.  I have only seen it under wraps, so it wasn’t really a photo op, but you can be sure that next week you will see it.

We had a quiet cup of coffee and roti at The Wanderer.  Our hope was to see the two dogs, Mercy and Joey, but they were either out for a walk or still inside.  They can be quite entertaining.

The nursery was our next stop.  It’s a drive-through affair (no, they don’t hand you plants at a window), which means that if you’re not exactly sure what you want, you must drive very slowly up and down the ‘streets’ until you see it.  We ended up finding things for the balcony garden as well as one side of the house.  Lisa planted the ones for the balcony and will supervise Gong on the yard plants.  We have to go to a different nursery to find the larger trees we want for a barrier to the new house behind us.  

Today’s photo was taken last year in Bangkok, at the opening of an exhibit of Somluk’s clay on canvas series.  Here we are standing with the artist.

In the background, we can hear the rolling of distant thunder.  It’s not in our neighborhood yet, but the night is young.

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

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

Unique

Hi,

This has been a day of light to moderate rain, all day.  There were moments of sunshine, and then a breeze would bring another set of ‘wet clouds’ and more rain would fall.  A lot of plants are growing at what seems like a fast rate.  Some of our trees and bushes are loving the extra water after the long dry period.  We’re going to add some new life to the yard in the next few days.  It’s the perfect time to plant.

‘Zany Day’ rhymes with rainy day, not that it means anything.  Some of you knew the song.  Here’s a little more:

“When you’re strange, faces come out of the rain.  When you’re strange, no one remembers your name, when you’re strange… __ __ __ when you’re a stranger, faces look ugly when you’re alone….”  Clue:  By a group named after something you open.  There was a movie about them and some difficulty with the police.

Today was our Big C day.  It was pretty routine, and with our fairly early start, it was a breeze.  We went over to Starbuck’s at the mall and had coffee.  We were almost done when we realized the mall would open in 5 minutes.  We waited, went in and got a few items at the grocery store.  The mall is still being rearranged following the structural changes that gave us multi-level indoor parking.  Some stores were moved into small quarters until other areas were completed.  Now they get to move into their new homes.  Today we noticed that Banana has a big new store in the main ‘tech’ section.  To our surprise, they still have the smaller store in the basement.  Hmm, how do they do that?  There are also some totally new stores.  The coolest name so far is:  “Groovy Groove”, which looks like a shoe store.  

When we were visiting at Doy Din Dang the other day, Khun Somluk told us about a place he’s been going to that is like a sauna without the steam.  You climb into hot rice husks and just sit there for about 20 minutes.  He said you sweat a lot and it apparently cleans the toxins out of the body.  He has invited me to go with him some time.  I think I’ll try it.

Yesterday’s photo shows Khun Naa cleaning the pool in the rain.  Something to think about.

It’s getting to be that time when we start getting puppy stuff.  We have to get a ‘crate’, which is really a small cage with a door.  This will be his hangout place while he is being trained to go outside.  This evening at dinner Nitchanan had a conversation with Lisa about the dog situation.  We don’t know everything she said, but she mentioned Daku several times and Jai Dee with a big smile.  She then went into the kitchen and started bugging Natcha to show her the photo of Jai Dee again.  Lisa offered to show her the pic on her phone.  That seemed to satisfy her and seeing it again made her beam with anticipation.  Oh, the waiting.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

“Always remember that you are

absolutely unique. Just like 

everyone else.”

~Margaret Mead

Progress

Hi,

Chiang Rai had beautiful weather today.  The morning was partly cloudy, and the afternoon had light rain.  At least that was the weather we experienced at our house.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Light My Fire” by The Doors.  Now you know what to expect for the next two songs.  

‘Zany Day’ is next and this surely qualifies:  “__ __ __ when you’re a stranger.  Faces look ugly when you’re alone.  Women seem wicked when you’re unwanted, streets are uneven when you’re down.”  Hint:  A perspective piece?

This morning, as we had breakfast, we had our last morning chat with Sherman.  After living in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, he is intrigued with the peaceful pace of our small city.  That’s what attracted us and many others who settled here.  After breakfast we did the hospital run and then came home and picked Sherman up for one final excursion.

Chivit Tamma Da was still in a ‘morning phase’ and the tables along the river view were all empty.  We usually don’t sit there, but today we wanted a front row seat of the brilliant greens of the island and a full view of the river.  

Today Lisa experienced the reverse traffic lanes after dropping me off downtown.  It appears that many drivers don’t understand that they can use both sides of the street to proceed northbound.  There was a policeman directing traffic into the empty lanes.  The odd thing is, it only lasts for one city block.  Maybe that’s all that’s needed to relieve the pressure.  We may never know.

Sometimes the simplest things make the best toys.  When Lisa returned to the house, Nitchanan had an empty paper towel tube and was singing into it.  Then she and Natcha were singing songs together.  Sorry I missed that.

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                  Peace,

                            Danny

“Progress lies not in enhancing

what is, but in advancing toward

what will be.”

~Khalil Gibran

Force

Hi,

This day went from bright and sunny to dark and cloudy to afternoon storm to evening thunder.  Whew, might rain again before it’s all over.

This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ tune was a hit during the summer of ’67.  “The time to hesitate is through, no time to wallow in the mire.  Try now we can only lose and our love become a funeral pyre.  Come on baby, __ __ __.  Come on baby, __ __ __.  Try to set the night on fire, yeah.”  Clue:  It opened the door for a lot of rock poets.  Lead singer became a hot topic.  

We began our day with a trip to ArtBridge so Sherman could get a taste of the Chiang Rai art scene.  Then we continued north to Doy Din Dang (Red Clay Hill), the home of the ceramic artist Somluk and his wife Tamako.  With only a few visitors, we had the run of the place.  Sherman and I went exploring and discovered a large studio I had never seen.  Tamako, Lisa, Sherman and I settled in the coffee shop and listened to Tamako tell the story of the very beginning of what is now a local attraction for travelers.  That was 22 years ago, when the land was raw, with no electricity or water, just the land.  She also took us through the evolution of the coffee shop.  Near the end of our fascinating visit Khun Somluk arrived and we discussed his ‘painting with clay’.  He has discovered 7 colors of clay so far.  Can’t wait to see his next exhibition.

It was nearly lunch time when we left Doy Din Dang so we returned to The Wanderer for lunch.  While we were waiting for our food, Kwan brought us a plate of garlic bread that she created.  Yum.  During lunch a song was playing and none of us could remember who sang it.  In great frustration, I used Shazam to catch the next song and we discovered it was Nora Jones.  How did we miss that?  As we were leaving, a conversation started about hoping the van didn’t get wet since Gong had just washed it this morning.  On the way home it started raining.  Oh well, it wasn’t that far (555).  

Before dinner Sherman had a chance to meet Nitchanan.  At first she was shy, but warmed up quickly and after dinner they were having fun repeating phrases in funny voices.  She brought out her backpack and began ‘performing’, taking everything out and clowning around.  Tomorrow he leaves for Chiang Mai.  The visit was too short and we’re hoping he comes back again.

Today’s photo was taken at the roof top restaurant at The Riverie Resort.  We’re looking down on the Mae Kok River.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“What you don’t do can be

a destructive force.”

~Eleanor Roosevelt

Change

Hi,

The weekend weather was something like this:  A few drizzles, a giant downpour, some sprinkles, and some sunshine.

The ‘Old School Friday’ song from last week was “When Doves Cry” by Prince.  New week, new artist, new/old songs. Time for ‘Easy Monday’:  “You know that it would be untrue, you know that I would be a liar, if I was to say to you, girl we couldn’t get much higher.  Come on baby, __ __ __, come on baby, __ __ __.  Try to set the night on fire.”  

Hint:  So easy.  It’s something a match does, or a person, or a…..

The big news at this moment is all about the puppy.  We got another photo and a short video of both ‘candidates’ and we have picked our Jai Dee.  He’s got that baby polar bear, cuteness and he focused on the camera.  I like that he’s alert.  They will update us every Monday with pics until we pick him up on Sept. 8.  Now, who’s going to sleep tonight?  (555)

Jai Dee @ 5 weeks old

Today, August 19, is our 49th anniversary of living life together.  It’s been quite a ride and I can’t imagine having things any other way.  I never imagined that we’d end up enjoying this chapter in a new country with a second community of friends and more family, but it’s real.  Feeling very Grateful.

Yesterday we went to The Riverie Resort for dinner.  When the doorman greeted us, we didn’t think anything of it, just the usual warmth we’ve come to expect.  After dinner, as we were leaving, he asked if we’d like a ride to our van.  'Of course' and 'why not’ came to mind and we got into the cart.  Here’s where it gets strange, he took us right to our van without any direction from us.  How did he know?

This morning we did the BKK Hospital run and then stopped at ArtBridge to pick up one of Lisa’s pieces that had been on display at the mall.  We decided to have coffee there and it was a very mellow experience.  They put us at a table by the river and the setting plus our iced drinks was perfect.  

This afternoon we went to the bus station and picked up our friend Sherman, who arrived from Chiang Mai.  I have known him for years, before we moved here and he’s been living in Thailand for quite a few years.  After a long mid-day bus ride, we went to The Wanderer (where else?) for a snack and to pick up some custom baked bread.  It felt strange to have iced Jasmine tea in the afternoon at The Wanderer.  We getting used to not having coffee in the afternoon.  What?  I might have gone right to sleep tonight but that puppy, oh well.  

Sherman and I hung out on our balcony for a long time, talking about lots of things and then it was time to relax.  Later we went to the Night Bazaar for dinner and some light shopping/browsing.  This is his first visit to Chiang Rai and he was impressed that at 6:30pm there was very little traffic on the street.  He’s used to Bangkok and Chiang Mai, where there is always traffic.  That’s one reason why we live here.  

Tomorrow will be a tourist day, sight-seeing and such.  

Have a Great Week.

                      Peace, 

                                Danny

“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world.

Today I am wise, so I’m changing myself.”

~Rumi

Friday Funnies

Hi,

In the parts of town where we were, it didn’t rain today.  Notice how I qualified that?  I’m sure there was rain somewhere.  It’s the rainy season, with different weather systems in every village.

That racy ‘Zany Day’ song was “Little Red Corvette” by Prince.  We’ll end the week with ‘Old School Friday’, from 1984 and not really that old (555).  “Dig if you will the picture, of you and I engaged in a kiss.  The sweat of your body covers me.  Can you my darling, can you picture this?  Dream if you can, a courtyard, an ocean of violets in bloom.  Animals strike curious poses, they feel the heat, the heat between me and you…. Why do we scream at each other?  This is what it sounds like __ __ __…”  Clue:  There are birds involved.

This was a most productive day.  We were able to get a head start on things since we didn’t have to go to the hospital.  It all started with coffee at The Wanderer.  As an added treat, we were given samples of some special bread that Kwan had baked the night before.  Mine was whole-wheat raisin and dairy-free.  It was very good and I plan on getting some to take home.  

A few minutes drive from The Wanderer and we were downtown, headed for Teppawan art supply.  There was no parking so I dropped Lisa off and drove around the block.  This is where it gets interesting.  There was still no parking so I double-parked, put the flashers on and just sat there.  It reminded me of an early 60’s visit to New York and my first introduction to ‘it’s what we do’.  Traffic went around me, even waited for the oncoming lane to clear.  No one honked or seemed annoyed, so I sat there until Lisa was done.  She was having an overdue visit with her dear friend Khun Supalak.  

Our journey continued to the southern part of town where all the home supply stores live.  Seriously, there are at least 6 giant stores offering everything you’d need to build, rebuild or decorate home and garden.  We knew that HomePro had the mosquito devices we wanted, and possibly the plant food and wall clock.  We scored everything we went for, and a little more.  The coolest thing was the clock.  It a very simple round piece of blond wood with numbers stamped into it, and a battery-powered timepiece.  Looks cool in the guest room.  At HomePro, if you exit pushing a cart, an attendant will approach and help you to your vehicle, and load everything inside.  Our guy was so helpful we tipped him.  What many people don’t realize is that having a job like that is a big deal and many workers will go out of their way to go beyond the ‘call’.  They’re not making much, about $10 per day.  It might go a long way in terms of basic survival, but there’s not much room for extras, so we tip.

Yesterday I told you about the big wind storm we had last night.  This morning we saw that we had lost a large part of one tree.  It’s twin survived.

Every time there is a Formula 1 race, I remind you.  I don’t know if any of you watch, but you know it’s there, waiting to thrill you.  There is a driver that I ‘support’ with cheering, etc. who is half Thai.  His name is Alex Albon and though he lives in England, he proudly displays the Thai flag on his car.  He just got promoted to the Red Bull Racing Team as a trial driver for the rest of the season.  Rock on, Alex.

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

                         Peace,

                                   Danny

Nothing

Hi,

We had a very pleasant, warm, cloudy day today.  Then around 6pm the wind started blowing like crazy.  After about 30 minutes it started to rain.  It’s still raining.

This week’s ‘Zany Day’ song was very popular in it’s day.  See if you remember this:  “A body like yours oughta be in jail ‘cause it’s on the verge of bein’ obscene.  Move over baby, gimmie the keys I’m gonna try to tame you __ __ love machine.  __ __ __, baby you’re much to fast.  __ __ __, need to find a love that’s gonna last.”  Clue:  There is a color involved.

You know you’re doing better when the doctor tells you to skip a day on treatment.  That was the good news today, so we don’t have to go back until Saturday.  Tomorrow morning we’ll run the streets, if it’s not still raining (555).

This morning we drove north a few minutes from the hospital, for coffee at Doy Din Dang.  The staff were the only people there, which meant we had the place to ourselves.  Except for the sound of a refrigerator, it would have been totally quiet.  It was very peaceful, and just 10 minutes from the edge of the city.  Amazing.

Lisa had lunch at The Wanderer with our long-time friend Tai (pronounced Dtai).  We’ve known her since the days of the rental house.  They hadn’t talked in a long time and had fun catching up on each other’s lives.  I stayed home and had a yummy Natcha lunch and watched one of ‘my shows’.

The only things we watch on our TV are sports.  I sometimes forget that there is a whole world of entertainment being produced and watched by Thais, in Thai.  Everything from game shows to soap operas, cooking shows to documentaries, it’s all there.  Cat surprised us one day when she mentioned that she enjoys Master Chef.  Oh, and let’s not forget the numerous music talent shows.  I just may have to watch a few myself.

Khun Jin arrived at 2pm for my massage.  All I had to do was tell her what I wanted in terms of ‘gentle’ and she went right to work.  There was no pain or discomfort, outside of what normally happens when you massage sore muscles.  I think I’m ready to get back into the routine of regular massages.  When I was done it was Lisa’s turn.  

This evening at dinner, Nitchanan provided the dinner show.  She had a little polar bear, a little man doll and a hat.  Various combinations of the characters would go into the hat to sleep.  Then she got her bouncy horse and he took a nap on the couch.  Again, we were alerted to be quiet so he could sleep.  This is ironic, because there are nights when she doesn’t sleep much.  Hmm.

Today’s photo is from last year, when Nitchanan was ‘helping’ her parents in the yard.  

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

“The only thing necessary for

the triumph of evil is

for good men to do nothing.”

~Edmund Burke

Wars

Hi,

It was a sprinkly kind of day in Chiang Rai.  There should be a wiper setting that gets faster as the speed of the car increases.  That way the windshield gets wiped when needed based on how many drops per hour hit it.  When it’s raining, or just sprinkling, we let Gong and Natcha take Nitchanan to school in the van.  It’s dryer and safer.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Purple Rain” by Prince.  It’s time for our ‘Zany Day’ tune and Prince is just the artist to provide such a song:  “I guess I should’ve known by the way you parked your car sideways, that it wouldn’t last.  See, you’re the kinda person that believes in makin’ out once, love’em and leave’em fast.  I guess I must be dumb ‘cause you had a pocket full of horses, Trojan and some of them used.  But it was Saturday night, I guess that makes it all right, and you say ‘What have I got to lose?’.  And honey, I say __ __ __, baby, you’re much too fast.  (Oh) __ __ __, you need a love that’s gonna last.”  Hint:  A song about a car, really.

After our weekly conversation with Lisa's dad Joe, we did our daily deal at the hospital.  Then it was time for coffee. We went back to Chivit Tamma Da since it was on the way to our next stop.  Once again, we had a quiet time on one of the porches, enjoying the green of the little island in the middle of the river.

While we were at Chivit, Lisa got busy with her phone.  

Our intention had been to go to Teppewan art supply store to visit Supalak and get some supplies, but there was no parking anywhere so we went home.  

Speaking of coming home, in about 4 more weeks little Jai Dee will be coming to his new home.  We’re supposed to get photos and a video next week.  The excitement is beginning.

Tomorrow I will have my first full massage since right after I hurt my back.  I was a little too tender the last time Khun Jin attempted to help me.  Things are much better now, not healed, but better.  If tomorrow isn’t too painful, I’ll be a regular when she comes to the house.  Lisa and Natcha have been enjoying the massages, and getting relief. I’m ready for the same.

It feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Children aren’t responsible for wars.”

~Fred Rogers

Things

Hi,

There was a little rain in the morning, and that was it.  The rest of the day was cloudy with moments of sunshine. 

This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song picked up some quick responses.  Here’s the second verse:  “I never wanted to be your weekend lover.  I only wanted to be some kind of friend.  Baby, I could never steal you from another, it’s such a shame our friendship had to end.  __ __, __ __, __ __, __ __, __ __, __ __.  I only want to see you underneath the __ __.”  Clue:  There is royalty involved and for the purposes of identification, symbols will not be accepted.

Today felt a lot like a Monday.  Since yesterday was a holiday, I suppose the fact that Monday felt like Sunday has something to do with it.  At any rate, it was a day for going to the stores for ‘supplies’.  After we left the hospital, we drove down the highway to Makro for a few items, and then on to Big C.  That’s where the shopping happens these days.  It was busy in the whole complex and my theory is that it was Monday for a bunch of folks.  

This morning, on our way to Bangkok Hospital, we passed Cat’s university.  While sitting at the red light that intersects with the campus, Lisa counted 24 motorbikes crossing the highway.  Not all of them were going to the school, but the little community around the campus is growing.  Cat told us there are several new gyms next to the campus and a few more in the area.  Physical fitness training has definitely come to Chiang Rai.

I mentioned last week that a new plant arrangement was being put up at The Wanderer.  Here is a photo of the new look for the waterfall.

This afternoon I went into the pool for the first time in a long time.  Lisa couldn’t join me because she needs to keep her ankle dry.  It took me a few minutes to get in, the water was chilly to me, but once in, I managed some mild exercise.  If it doesn’t rain too much, I might even do it again tomorrow (5).

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                      Peace,

                                Danny

“Great things are done 

by a series of small things

brought together.”

~Vincent Van Gogh

Friday Funnies

Hi,

This morning there was a very light rain that tried to repeat this afternoon.  Not much came from either event, at least not in our neighborhood.  

The ‘Middle Song’ was “Free Man In Paris” by Joni Mitchell.  To wrap up the week, here’s an ‘Old School Friday’ you may remember:  “I came upon a child of God, he was walking along the road, and I asked him, ‘where are you going?’ and this he told me…’I’m going on down to Yasgur’s farm, I’m going to join in a rock ’n’ roll band.  I’m going to camp out on the land, I’m gonna try and get my soul free.  We are stardust, we are golden, and we’ve got to get ourselves back to the garden.”  Hint:  This 1970 song title is a place, an event, and a cultural center piece.  A trio made it famous.  

We made our daily trip to BKK Hospital this morning and got a bit of good news.  The lab test showed that there was no longer any bacteria present.  The doctor wants to go longer on the antibiotics just to be sure.  The comfort level is much better, although there are surprise ‘reminders' from time to time.

The plan was to go to Starbuck’s and then Top’s Market, which is a part of the mall complex, but opens an hour earlier.  It had rained and the turn out was light for a Friday morning.  That meant plenty of parking for coffee.  We drove into the parking structure, thinking we’d get closer to the other end of the mall for our trip to Top’s.  The only problem with that was the structure was closed and the only way to get out was to drive all the way to the top, then back down the spiral ramp.  There was no choice but to comply.  After all that driving, a spot was waiting for us right in front of the market.  

By the time we finished shopping, the mall was opening so we went in and paid our phone bills.  So convenient to be able to do that at the mall.  Downstairs, we cruised the ArtBridge Gallery to see if it had changed yet.  There will be a special Mother’s Day exhibit and one of Lisa’s works will be included.  

Monday is Mother’s Day in Thailand.  It is the birthday of the Queen and is a national holiday, as well as a day to celebrate all mothers.  Nitchanan’s school had a special program today.  This will be a big weekend for restaurants and places of interest.  Families will gather and pay tribute to mothers and grandmothers. 

Today’s photo was taken by Lisa, from her studio window, looking down on part of the front yard.

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

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

Blind

Hi,

Once again, we were tricked by the weather.  The new thing is for the rain to come in the afternoon and then leave.  It was a pretty hard rain for about 30 minutes.  Fortunately, it was after the school run and Natcha and Nitchanan were at home.  I think it’s going to be like this every day.

The ‘Middle Song’ was no stranger to many readers.  Once it gets in your head, the looping begins.  Second verse:

"I deal in dreamers and telephone screamers, lately I wonder what I do it for.  If I had my way I’d just walk through those doors and wander down the Champs-Elysees, going cafe to cabaret thinking how I’d feel when I find that very good friend of mine.  I was a __ __ __ __ I felt unfettered and alive.  Nobody was calling me up for favors, no one’s future to decide.  You know I’d go back there tomorrow but for the work I’ve taken on, stoking the star-making machinery behind the popular song.”  Clue:  The singer is taking on the role of a businessman.  There’s your clue.

This morning, after the hospital business, we went to Little C, looking for cheap paints but didn’t find any.  Lisa did find some much needed sunglasses so the trip was not in vain.  Besides the ‘Little C’ store, the rest of the building is like a mall.  There are many stores we see in other mall settings, but just smaller.  There was a lot of traffic, considering is was a Thursday morning.  Some day I’d like to see their MultiPlex theater.

The Wanderer was our coffee stop today.  Mercy greeted us with a little talking and some snuggling, even though she was very dirty from playing in the woods.  She may have been in the river.  Khun Thomas, the resident keeper of the plants, was hanging some plants inside next to the glass waterfall.  Next time we stop by I’ll take some photos of the finished arrangement.

Today’s photo was taken on our way home.  The title of this pic:  The Road Home.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                     Peace,

                               Danny

“You’re not supposed to be so blind 

with patriotism that you can’t face 

reality.  Wrong is wrong, no matter 

who says it.”

~Malcom X

Silence

Hi,

The day began looking like it would be a dry day after the storm.  By mid-day it was raining, that cleared and the monsoonal downpour hit.  Then it was done.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Big Yellow Taxi”’ by Joni Mitchell.  This week’s ‘Middle Song’ has an international flair:

“The way I see it, he said, you just can’t win it.  Everybody’s in it for their own gain, you can’t please ‘em all.  There’s always somebody calling you down.  I do my best and I do good business.  There’s a lot of people asking for my time, they’re trying to get ahead, they’re trying to be a good friend of mine.  I was a __ __ __ __, I felt unfettered and alive.  There was nobody calling me up for favors and no one’s future to decide…”  Hint:  Title contains the capitol city of a European country.  

Today was a busy day.  We talked to Joe, Lisa’s dad, and then went to BKK Hospital for her daily treatment on her ankle.  We had to wait longer than we’re used to because we had a 10am appointment.  From now on we’ll go at 9am, when the place is just waking up.  After the hospital we went to Makro for some art supplies (cups and sticks), and then to ArtBridge.  The next stop was in town at the shop of Khun Orn, to pick up sewing, and then to Sabroso.

We had a lunch date at Sabroso with our friends Susan and Noy.  We haven’t seen them since we lunched at the Hacienda months ago.  They have dogs and of course, we began with the dog conversations.  They have been doing lots of traveling and that was fun to hear about.  We always learn new things when people tell us about their travels.  The stand-out trip was to the Maldives, where they had a ‘room’ that was several tiny island bungalows.  There were rooms with glass panels in the floor, so you could see the fish swimming below, and a bathtub that was also clear.  It’s somewhere we’d like to go before the islands all sink into the ocean.  Japan was high on their list of favorite places to go and it seems that everyone we know who has been there wants to return.  During the heatwave they had a hard time with their hydroponic lettuce farm, trying to keep the crop from wilting.  Things are better now the temps are cooler and not as dry.  

In the late afternoon I went into town for my meeting.  Things were going as usual until I got to a major intersection and prepared to turn right.  There were policemen in the street directing traffic, directing us to continue straight ahead.  When I looked down the street I wanted, I was shocked to see all of the lanes heading north.  They had created a part-time one-way street to move the traffic out of the downtown area more efficiently.  I missed the memo on this, but I had an alternate plan that worked.  I wish they’d tell me when they’re going to change things around (555).

Today’s photo is a sight we see all around us on the northern side of the river.  There is still a lot farming, even with all the land development.  This is rice!

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Nothing strengthens authority

so much as silence.”

~Leonardo da Vinci