Natural

Hi,

We began with a cloudy sky that looked like rain.  By mid-day it was sunny and warm.  Tomorrow will be cooler, in the mid 70’s.  I know, it’s probably colder where you are, but I feel what I feel (555).

No one has identified the ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune yet.  There’s still a chance you could be the one (555).

“So __ __, you just go right on spinning.  You go ‘round and ‘round and don’t ever stop.  Remember that is you don’t go ‘round we are sure gonna stop, gonna stop, gonna stop.  My sweet little flower you win.  I’m spinnin’ and I promise I will love you forever.  I know that there is no one who can thrill me, no one can kill me baby, like you do.”  Clue:  There’s a child’s toy involved, and of course, love.

The ‘Mighty Three’ (Danny, Lisa and Cat) set out early this morning and got to Big C right after opening.  We’ve been going shopping early to avoid crowds, armed with our masks and gel.  From there we went to Starbuck’s for a decadent snack and into the mall.  We had a mission, and Lisa kept us on course.  Cat and I were, in Lisa’s words, like two kids in our distractions.  Nothing like a little ‘fantasy shopping’ to help one lose sight of the goal.  We went there to look for a new color, laser printer.  We found one and Cat’s help translating critical questions made it possible.  A few items from Top’s Market were also on our agenda.  They have installed self-checkout, which may be the first in Chiang Rai.  It was pretty slick and they had a staff person there to guide us.  

When we got home, the dogs were very happy to see us.  They had spent the morning inside.  It takes JaiDee a few minutes to calm down whenever Cat comes over.  He’s got a major crush on her (555).  After lunch it was quiet time.

Tonight we are camped out with the dogs, listening to the fireworks being set off in the neighborhood.  TongTong doesn’t like them, but she isn’t freaked out.  JaiDee seems to be OK.  He ran like crazy on our ‘walk’ and will probably sleep through the midnight noise.

Have a Thrilling Thursday and a HNY.  Please Stay At Home.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Natural ability without education has more

often raised a man to glory and virtue than

education without natural ability.”

~Marcus Aurelius 

Music

Hi,

We knew when we got up that it would be a warmer day.  In the sun, it turned out to be a hot day.  The rest of the week will get progressively cooler, then cold.

Some of you remembered the ‘Easy Monday’ song as “Lola” and you were right.  Hope you’re ready for this week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune:  “__ __, my little __ __, see how you got me spinning.  Going ‘round and ‘round and I don’t wanna stop.  You’ve got me so if I don’t go ‘round I am sure gonna drop, gonna drop, gonna drop.” Hint:  This is another tune featuring the vocalese technique.  It began life in 1947 and has been covered through the decades.  

This morning Cat came over at 9:30am and we took off for the flower show.  It was amazing.  Those are the simplest words to describe what we experienced.  We got there before it became crowded and that part worked out great.  Seeing large beds of beautiful flowers was almost overwhelming.  The basic layout of the show is the same each year, as far as where the flowers will be placed.  Because there are paved paths and bridges over streams, it’s a permanent installation to a certain degree.  Everyone wore their masks except for pictures.  So, no more talking.

During our visit to the show, Cat spotted a coffee shop so we took a break and hung out.  By the time we got to the end of the exhibit, it was getting crowded.  It was past our lunch time and we had resisted the ‘goodies’ at the park so we went to Melt In Your Mouth.  We hadn’t been there in a long time and things had changed, menu wise.  After lots of questions and changes, we had a so-so lunch in a wonderful atmosphere by the river.  We then ran those errands I mentioned yesterday and returned to the house for some relaxation.  None of us napped, but it was good to rest.  

This evening we had Mexican food at Sabroso Restaurant.  After dinner we went to The Wanderer for a small, outdoor gathering of friends that will be a once-a-month affair.  There was food (we had dessert) and drink and live music.  Oh, and two of the family dogs, Mercy and Sally.  I recommend the pumpkin pie, yum.  

So that was our day.  Tomorrow we do Big C and the mall when it opens.  Early in, early out beats the crowds.  Tomorrow night we’ll stay at home with the dogs since fireworks are apparently a big deal here.  

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.       Wear a mask, wash your hands, and listen to the professionals.

                      Peace,

                                Danny

“Music fills the infinite

between two souls.”

~Rabindranath Tagore

Aim

 Hi,

The weather is doing that thing where every day is very close to the last one.  Sometimes it’s deceiving when it changes unexpectedly, but we’ve adjusted to its ways.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song really is easy.  It’s by a group that had a ton of hits and also some cult favorites.

“Well I’m not the worlds most physical guy but when she squeezed me tight she nearly broke my spine, oh, my __, __-__-__-__ __.  Well I’m not dumb but I can’t understand why she walked like a woman and talked like a man, oh, my __, __-__-__-__ __….”  Clue:  If you’re looking for the title, it rhymes with ‘cola’ as in cherry cola.  So easy.

This was our ‘stay at home’ day.  We usually don’t plan it that way, but there is a day in each week when we just decide that we don’t really have to go anywhere.  Of course, the next day gets filled with things to do outside.  Tomorrow will be one of those days.  

The big adventure for tomorrow will be our visit to the Flower Show with Cat.  We’re going in the morning, when it’s less likely to be crowded.  There are some errands that will need to be checked off of a list and it will be a full day.

Your next message will contain lots of flower photos for sure.  I’m guessing that the rest of the week will be flowers.

Thailand is in the midst of what some might call it’s first wave.  The numbers have the potential to surpass the first weeks of the pandemic back in March.  Between the fishing port in Samut Sakhon and the gambling joints in Rayong, we have a whole new thing happening.  We downloaded an application that will let us know the status of our area.  There is no covid in our province.  “Very Low Risk” is how the app put it.  It also has a photo and our address, as part of a contact tracing protocol.  It’s the first topic of conversation around here.  

Today’s photo was taken at Chivit Thamma Da.  It’s called a smoothie because underneath the beautiful seeds and fruit, is a bowl of yogurt.  I didn’t eat this, just took the photo (555).  Presentation is everything.

Last week we had a new filter pump motor installed for the pool, and it’s whisper quiet.  The tranquility of the setting has been restored.  

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“The aim of art is to represent not

the outward appearance of things,

but their inward significance.”

~Aristotle

Hopes

Hi,

Our weather has been warming up very gradually.  Last week a thermal shirt, a hoodie and a jacket were standard ‘warm clothes’.  Today, a T-shirt and light jacket were enough.  It’s getting warmer every day until the end of the week, then a major reversal.  Oh boy.

The ‘Old School Friday Holiday Special’ was “Merry Christmas Baby” by Charles Brown.  Remember that, because there will be a test next year (555).  This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song is from across the pond:  “I met her in a club down in old Soho where you drink champagne and it tastes just like cherry-cola.  C-o-l-a, cola.  She walked up to me and she asked me to dance, I asked her her name and in a dark brown voice she said __, __-__-__-__, __, __-__-__-__ __”  Hint:  This song has been on the playlist for years, so it should be easy by now.  It’s kinda kinky.  Oh, the title is a name.

The weekend was pretty mellow.  We stayed away from the annual ArtBridge opening featuring works from all of the artists, even though we’ve missed it for many years since we’re usually in the States.  As we suspected, we could see from the photos there was no social distancing.  We have made plans to go to the annual Flower Show on Wednesday with Cat.  The opening for that was not very crowded compared to past years, and a weekday morning outside should be pretty safe.  Most of our ‘outings’ were to The Wanderer, where they have installed a digital thermometer and a contact sheet.  Our province is still free of the virus, but everyone is taking stronger measures since the southern part of the country is having problems.  

Today’s photo is another orchid from The Wanderer.

Sunday evening we took Cat and Noom to the Riverie Hotel to see the big light exhibit that I shared with you last week.  They had fun taking lots of pics and posing in designated spots.  We had heard that the lights on Clock Tower street were nice so we drove downtown.  The theme was lots of white lights that didn’t have the same impact after being blown away by all the color at the hotel.  Some people like it though.  

Have a Great Week.   Don’t forget to cover up and stay safe.

                             Peace,

                                       Danny

“Extreme hopes are born

from extreme misery.”

~Bertrand Russell 

Friday Funnies

Hi,

Today the weather was great.  It was the typical cold morning thing, but by the time we got into the day, it was warming up.  According to the weather people, it’s going to continue to get warmer.  Yea!

Our ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Take the ‘A’ Train” by Duke Ellington, as sung by Ella Fitzgerald and countless other vocalists.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQnNnPLC_b4  This song was written by Billy Strayhorn and was inspired by a letter sent to him by Duke Ellington, giving directions from Pittsburg to New York.  The final leg of the directions were to ‘Take the ‘A’ train into Harlem.  The song became the signature tune for the Ellington Orchestra and Strayhorn became an invaluable member of the orchestra.   The ‘Old School Holiday Special’ is next, and it’s a song we’ve remembered through the years.  “__ __ __, you sure did treat me nice.  __ __ __, you sure did treat me nice.  Gave me a diamond ring for Christmas, now I’m living in paradise.”  Hint:  The first two words are that of the holiday.  You got this, baby.

This morning we had a special breakfast (French toast) and prepared for Natcha, Gong and Nitchanan to come over for their gifts.  Only Natcha and Nitchanan came, but it was still just as exciting.  Her little face lit up when she saw the gifts under the little tree on the dining room table.  She was very excited as she opened each one and knew what some of them were, and discovered new things with others.  Natcha explained each gift as they went along.  There will be lots of busy work on her school break.  There were fun things too, like a sticker book of cartoon unicorns.  We now have at least a dozen stickers on our dining room door.  She was very interested in ‘Snakes & Ladders’ and couldn’t wait to go home and learn how to play.  It was a wonderful morning.

This afternoon we drove out to Santiburi Golf Community under clear skies and warming temps.  We didn’t know anyone except our hosts, but that quickly changed as we were introduced and drawn into the conversations.  Boui, our hostess, had the men at one table on the patio, and the women at another.  Lisa was at a table with a group of Thai women who fortunately translated from time to time.  I was at a table of expat men, all speaking English.  The guys I was with all knew each other so I had to figure out the common thread.  They love to play golf.  There was lots of friendly joking discussion of the changes in Chiang Rai, and the various beers of Thailand.  I just sat and listened.  There were 12 people total for the big dinner.  Jimmy and Boui provided a table of wonderful traditional dishes, and made some concessions for our food ‘issues’.  Jimmy made a dairy-free pudding using almond milk and it was yummy.  Boui made gifts for everyone and that was a big surprise.  

After dinner we came home, walked the dog and started a typical evening.  I hope you all have a happy, safe holiday, whatever you’re celebrating.  

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

                     Peace,

                               Danny

Open

 Hi,

Warm days, cold nights seems to sum up the weather in Chiang Rai.  We are coping quite nicely now.  From time to time, it actually gets warm in the evening, then it fades.

I got a lot of mail telling me about the ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune, and, I learned that it’s a fav among tap dancers.

“Hurry, get on now it's coming.  Listen to those rails a-thrumming.  All aboard, get on the __ __.  Soon you will be on Sugar Hill in Harlem… Next stop, Harlem.  Come on, get aboard the __ __…”  Clue:  The tune was inspired by a letter to the writer from a band-leader friend, giving him directions to his place.  Knowing the right form of transportation is most important.

This morning we did the Big C dance.  JaiDee was wanting to go with us, but he backed off when he was told that he couldn’t.  He understands so many words, it’s refreshing to be able to tell him stuff and he’s OK with it.  Well, maybe not OK, but he stops insisting.  The population at the store was very light.  It always makes it easy to shop when there aren’t many other shoppers around.  A stroll through the men’s clothing department revealed that they think warm weather is just around the corner.  Lots of shorts on sale.  Hmm, and cheap sandals.  

We had no plans to go to the mall, but went there for Starbuck’s and a treat before heading home.  On the way, we stopped at the nursery to pick up an orchid for a gift.  Just as it was being finalized, a Calla Lily appeared and became part of the deal.  Now it’s the gift and we’re keeping the orchid.  

Today’s photo was taken at home a few nights ago.  Nitchanan and JaiDee hanging out.  They are best buds.

Tomorrow is the 25th, our first Christmas in Thailand in the 13 years we’ve lived here.  We’ll give the little family their gifts in the morning and then drive out to Santiburi Golf community for dinner.  Our friends Jimmy and Phui invited us as soon as we told them we’d be in town.  There will be a few other expats we know and it should be an interesting afternoon.

Here’s a photo extra from our recent evening at the Night Bazaar.  This is a partial photo of what I like to call a ‘Light Mural’ over a new bar.  

Have a Thrilling Thursday.         Leave a mask next to the milk and cookies for Santa.

                            Peace,

                                      Danny

“Look at situations from all angles,

and you will become more open.”

~Dalai Lama

Friendship

 Hi,

The cold is still here, but there is relief in sight.  We had a beautiful day with a clear blue sky.  Other places are really cold so I won’t complain.  We’ve got the stuff to stay warm.  Grateful.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Groovin’” by the Young Rascals.  I don’t expect most of you to know this ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune, but it will now be in your knowledge base.  “You must take the __ __ to go to Sugar Hill, way up in Harlem.  If you miss the __ __, you’ll find you missed the quickest way to Harlem.”  Hint:  It’s about a choo-choo with a famous designation.  It was recorded in 1941 and is a part of the ‘swing’ style of jazz.  

This morning we went to The Wanderer with JaiDee.  We met our friend John there and he arrived just as we got out of the van.  JaiDee’s tail started wagging, I guess he recognized the car.  It was the usual love fest for a few minutes and then he settled down.  We started out in the Glass Room, which is shaded and not very warm on days like today.  Lisa and JaiDee went for a walk and she came back mentioning the warmth of the sun.  We moved to a table that had some sunlight, with trees around it.  It was magical.  Just enough sun to feel some heat, tall trees and coffee plants to look at, and the faint sound of laughter in the distance.  It was one of the longest visits we’ve had.

Today’s photo was taken at The Wanderer.  This plant is called a ‘Necktie Fern’.

After lunch we went to the Talat, the main market downtown.  Santa needed a few more gifts and asked us to help out.  The place was different than the last time we were there.  Early in the morning is quiet and the lanes are almost empty.  Today it was bustling with the usual daytime business.  The biggest gatherings were in front of the shops selling warm children’s clothing.  It was good to see that almost all of the shoppers were wearing masks.

Today you get a bonus photo.  This was taken in Bangkok at Suvarnabhumi Airport.  A worker is putting a mask on one of the giant Protectors who stand watch in the main ticket areas.  The worker’s mask is not being worn properly.  It should be over his nose.  Just sayin’.

It feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                            Peace,

                                      Danny

“Depth of friendship does not 

depend on length of acquaintance.”

~Rabindranath Tagore

Define

 Hi,

OK, the weather in one word: COLD.  We stayed home all day, wrapped in layers of warm stuff.  At it’s coldest tonight (early in the morning) it’s going to be either 48° or 49°F, depending on who you believe.  We always get used to it just as spring arrives and it’s warming up.  

I am shocked that only two readers responded to the ‘Easy Monday’ song.  Here’s the second verse, it might help:

“__, down a crowded avenue.  Doin’ anything we like to do.  There’s always lots of things that we can see, we can be anyone we want to be, and all those happy people we could meet just __, on a Sunday afternoon…”  Clue:  The title is something akin to ‘chillin’ or ‘trippin’.  Taking things as they come and enjoying the moment.

We just got home from a birthday party for our dear friend Nukoon.  It was held in a private room at the Riverie Hotel, which is about 2 minutes from our house.  The dining room was part of the Chinese restaurant in the hotel, so it was dinner in the round.  Nukoon and his wife Sutheera are some of our oldest friends here in Chiang Rai.  We first met him in 2001 when we spent 3 days in Chiang Rai.  Tonight we remembered many events through the years and realized that next year will be 20 years of friendship.  The dinner was mostly things we don’t or can’t eat, so we ordered from the regular restaurant menu.  We ate Thai food and sampled some of the Chinese food that came around on the ‘Lazy Susan’.  Dinner conversation ranged from Covid to vaccines to birthdays.  There was also the usual family stuff that we understood only parts of and we were too courteous to ask too many questions.  Two of Nukoon’s grandchildren were there, offering a little comic relief.  The girls are 4 and 2 and were really excited about the singing of the birthday song and the cake.  After some rearranging of the 2 cakes (the 2 year old wanted a certain cake in front of her) we sang the song, they blew out the candles and calm was restored.  

As we were walking through the lobby on our way out, we noticed an ocean of color outside on the pool deck/patio.  Once again, a picture is worth…

The outbreak of the virus that I mentioned yesterday generated mail.  Note that the workers who were infected were not from Malaysia, but Burma (Myanmar).  The number has grown and has become cause for concern not only in the province on the coast, but Bangkok as well, since it’s right next door and a new case was discovered.  More will definitely be revealed.

Tomorrow it’s supposed to be warmer, which is good because we have things to do outside, as in ‘in the street’, etc.    

Have a Happy Tuesday.        Mask up, wash up, stay safe.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Never be bullied into silence.

Never allow yourself to be made a victim.

Accept no one’s definition of your life;

define yourself.”

~Harvey Fierstein

Overcoming

 Hi,

Last night the air got very cold.  So cold that a thick quilt was put on the bed.  It helped.  When we woke up this morning it was the coldest yet.  The day eventually warmed up and a long sleeve shirt was enough.  Tonight’s walk required a T-shirt, a hoodie sweatshirt, and a puffy jacket.  Stay tuned, it might warm up in a few days.

The ‘Old School Friday Holiday Special’ was “Santa Baby” as sung by Eartha Kitt https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFbnYwRzSyY  I think you need an ‘Easy Monday’ song:  “__, on a Sunday afternoon.  Really, couldn’t get away too soon.  I can’t imagine anything that’s better, the world is ours whenever we’re together, there ain’t a place I’d like to be instead of __, down a crowded avenue….”  Hint: (555), it’s an easy one.  It was done by a group that was young at the time.

This morning, after we warmed up, we went to The Wanderer.  JaiDee went for the ice, Lisa for coffee and I went for the 'Honey, Lemon, Ginger’ drink that has become my staple of late.  As usual, the place was practically empty.  Khun Noot and her daughters, Khwan and Kern were all hanging out.  One of them had one of those reindeer antler head pieces and all of a sudden, JaiDee became the center of attention.  A picture is worth a thousand words.

After our antler adventures we went up the highway to Browney Pet World.  Ah, the smells.  Mr. Dog had a tail-wagging good time and even though he didn’t get a lot of treats this time, he got some attention.  His social skills are improving, even though he did stand on his hind legs at the check-out counter.  

It’s really fascinating to see how people here respond to any news of covid threat.  Over the weekend there was a report of an outbreak in a province on the Gulf of Thailand, a long way from us to the south.  It’s near Bangkok, and is a fishing port that employs a large number of transient workers, many from Malaysia.  I don’t know the details of how they knew how many, etc. but here in Chiang Rai the word was out quick.  Words of wisdom are being passed on as if this thing just started.  It doesn’t hurt to hear it all again, that’s what it takes.  We are very confident that this will be under control, based on the past episodes.  It’s just a little unnerving when the outlook is so great and then ‘Blam’, another obstacle.  We can do it.

Cat came over before dinner and we had lots of interesting conversations.  The original purpose of the visit was to find a red blouse to wear in a Christmas program at her school tomorrow.  It’s always interesting to get a young persons perspective on current events.   Nitchanan came in during dinner and she entertained Cat.  She explained to Cat that she learned to do a hand stand and a forward roll from Youtube.  Hmm, welcome to the new school.  Natcha had to hold her feet up, but she was upside down.  Life is good.

Have a Great Week.

                          Peace,

                                    Danny 

“Although the world is full of suffering,

it is also overcoming it.”

~Helen Keller

Friday Funnies

 Hi,

Well, just another beautiful summer day in Chiang Rai.  Next week we’ll have a few days in the 70’s, then back to the mid 80’s for Santa’s helicopter landing (555).

The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Nature Boy” as made famous by Nat ‘King’ Cole. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iq0XJCJ1Srw  The song was written by eden ahbez, a writer and often referred to as an early hippie.  At one time, he lived behind the Hollywood sign.  He was part of a group of young people who ate raw food, wrote music and poetry and believed in clean living.  He got the song to Nat Cole at a club where he was performing.  Cole got great response and recorded it.  The rest is history.  I can remember my mother taking me to see The Boy With Green Hair (1948), which featured the song.  Now, it’s time for our next ‘Old School Friday Holiday Song’.  This one comes up every year and it still brings a smile for me.  “__ __, just slip a sable under the tree, for me.  Been an awful good girl, __ __ and hurry down the chimney tonight.”  Hint: I think you should be able to get it from that.  

Today’s adventures began with another trip to Big C.  The natural progression from that, is a trip across the highway to Central Plaza Mall and coffee at Starbuck’s before the mall opens.  After coffee, we went to Robinson, the anchor department store, in search of some ceramic cookware, but first we needed to shop for Nitchanan.  Walking up and down the aisles at this time of year can be a little overwhelming.  So many choices, so many characters I know nothing about.  There was a whole section of toys from Japan that caught my attention.  When I was young we had an electric train that held our attention for several years.  Today I saw a train set based on the ‘Bullet Train’.  It was pretty cool.  We finally settled on some art things and a book.  She likes to ‘read’ with us.  The store didn’t have the skillet we wanted so the search continues.  

On our way through the mall we were surprised by an installation we didn’t expect.  The flower show happens this time of year and this time they went all out.  The best way to tell you is to show you.  Too bad you can’t smell it.

In January of 2007, we came to Chiang Rai for a 10 day visit, to see if this was where we wanted to live.  We were basing it on a 3 day visit in 2001.  One of the influences was the fact that our friend Blue had in-laws who lived here and had treated us with open arms the first time we met them.  On our ’07 visit, one of the places they took us was the flower show.  Opening night was an incredible mass of cars and people, but we got there and had a wonderful time.  This year will be the first time since we have lived here that we will be able to attend the show, since we’ve always been in California during the show.  

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.

                     Peace,

                               Danny

Tact

Hi,

We have been enjoying our summer-like weather, knowing that next week will be a definite change to the cooler side.  If you’re in the snow right now, I feel for ya.

This week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was identified by many readers.  Here is the second, and most profound verse:

“…and then one day, a magic day he passed my way.  And while we spoke of many things, fools and kings, this he said to me:  ‘The greatest thing you’ll ever learn, is just to love and be loved in return.  The greatest thing you ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.”  Clue:  The singer also sang last weeks ‘Old School’ song.  

This morning we took JaiDee to The Wanderer for ice.  We went for coffee and tea.  I have started drinking less coffee in an effort to increase my ‘sleep milage’ (555).  It may be working.  Both The Wanderer and Chivit Thamma Da have ‘Honey, Lemon, Ginger’ teas and that has become my ‘second cup’.  JaiDee was being his super friendly self when he saw Khun Khwan, and had just calmed a bit when he spotted the little rescue kitten who was minding her own business.  He lunged, it ran and we made our exit.  This was after a very pleasant time in the glass room all by ourselves.  Nothing like morning in the woods.

After dropping the puppy off at home we took a printer in for servicing.  We hadn’t been to the HP service center in a long time.  Mainly because we had not been printing things.  Funny how that works, or doesn’t.  

The city water was supposed to come back on at 6am.  When we got back to the house we learned that we had run out of water.  Well, half the house had run out.  We have two water tanks and one serves the yard and the kitchen.  That one ran out, probably from things being watered in the yard and hosing down, etc.  We thought the water was back on and running as usual.  Ha, they weren’t done yet.  So it wasn’t a disaster, but a little strange.  For the people who had no water, even stranger.  I don’t know what the status of the rest of the area is right now.

This evening we went to the funnest place in town: the dentist, for teeth cleaning.  We missed our spring cleaning due to covid concerns.  We did pretty good, as check-ups go.  I had to have a tooth repaired and x-rayed with the possibility of a root canal in the future.  I also have to send him the medication that I’m on since my cardiac event.  It is protocol for dentists to be aware of these things so they can properly prepare their patients for certain procedures.  The things we learn.

From the dentist, we went to the Night Bazaar for dinner.  Our favorite spot, Sawadee, wasn’t open.  We’re not sure if they are shut down or just not open.  There were a lot of closed stalls, and some vendors had shifted to locations in a better position for sales, taking the place of those who left for good.  There was hardly anyone there and the conversations we had with some of our friends was all the same.  They’re just holding on until the tourists return.  They tried to put on a brave face, but you could hear the struggle in their voices.  

Today’s photo is a mural that is new to the entrance area of the Night Bazaar.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.   Please stay safe.

                            Peace,

                                      Danny

“Tact is the art of making a point

without making an enemy.”

~Isaac Newton 

Honest

Hi,

It felt warmer today than yesterday.  I don’t know what’s going on with our weather except I’m glad it’s not a snow storm.  Should be cooler next week.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Hitch Hike” by Marvin Gaye.  Now we go back to 1948 for a ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune that was rather deep:  “There was a boy, a very strange enchanted boy.  They say he wandered very far, very far over land and sea.  A little shy, and sad of eye, but very wise was he…”  Hint:  The title is never sung.  The ‘hook’ of the song is the last two lines, which you’ll ‘hear’ tomorrow.  You might know this one.

We survived the water shut-off without problems.  That’s not the case for other parts of town, where the water may come back tomorrow morning.  Feeling grateful.

After reaching out to the expat community about where to find decaf coffee, we went to Big C and got a bag.  Then we went to Starbuck’s since they were also mentioned.  I got an Iced Decaf Americano, which is the closest I’ll get to ordering a fancy drink.  It was pretty good, though it cost twice as much as the caffeinated versions.  The coffee from Big C made for a nice afternoon coffee drink without the villain (555).  On the outside patio area of the mall, vendors were setting up a village, selling various Hill Tribe products and fresh fruits and vegetables.  We got some organic strawberries that were very good.  

That big Rock concert I told you about went on a second day, but was cut short over covid concerns.  The man who was in charge, along with the sponsors and some artists apologized to the fans.  The main promoter guy, Mr. Yuthana, said he’s taking some time off to ponder his future after failing to bring happiness to the fans.  “I should have done better, I’m very sorry,” he wrote.  Now that’s what I call humility.  It remains to be seen if any cases develop as a result of the obvious flaws.  Another big concert in another province was promptly cancelled.

Here’s another beautiful orchid from The Wanderer.

This afternoon JaiDee picked up a toy he rarely plays with and kept it with him all through nap time.  He walked around with it and wouldn’t let it go.  Then, around dinner time, he started chewing and ripping it.  Nitchanan noticed it and alerted us.  The toy has been put away.  His deflated soccer ball is so much better, he can’t tear it up.

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                             Peace,

                                       Danny

“I was really too honest a man

to be a politician and live.”

~Socrates 

Done

Hi,

It felt like summer today.  Short pants and no socks, what a rush (555).  I’ll keep everything close by since next week is supposed to be semi-winter.

This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song has been an R&B favorite since 1962.  “I’m goin’ to St. Louis but my next stop just might be L.A. (__ __) now what’d I say? (L.A.).  Got no money in my pocket so I’m gonna have to __ __ all the way.  I’ve got to find that girl, if I have to __ __ ‘round the world.”  Clue:  The title of the song was a mode of travel that one doesn’t see much anymore.  In the 60’s and 70’s (brave) people went all over the world like this.

Most of today was spent at The Big Brown House.  We actually got a late start due to the dogs spending the early morning downstairs.  It started with TongTong going down to sleep on the landing.  She likes it there, it’s a good ‘look out’ spot in case Natcha comes in early.  Later, JaiDee left and went downstairs.  I didn’t hear him leave, but they apparently traded places.  Around 6:30am I heard him bark once, and then heard her get up and go down to meet him.  At 7:03 they both came prancing into the bedroom, ready to play.  We thanked them for letting us sleep in.

We talked to Joe for an hour this morning and he recounted some of his early life.  It was cool, learning more about this amazing man.

Pool guy, Naa, came to service everything and we asked him about the noise coming from the pump.  He confirmed what it was, but said it couldn’t be fixed. We’ve had it for about 10 years and we need a new one.  When asked if he could get one, he kept referring us to Amazon.  So, we have the name of the company that makes the best one, and the power level.  Now we just have to find one, hopefully without having to have it shipped from America.  The good thing is, the current pump still works, just a little noisy.  

After the spray guys (bugs) left we went to The Wanderer to pick up some Ciabatta bread they baked for me.  Since we were there we decided to share a drink and try a new treat they have.  The treat was like a little shortcake cookie with big cornflakes somehow stuck to it.  Quite delicious, and went well with a ginger lemon drink.  

Today’s photo is an orchid at The Wanderer.

We did our evening walk after dinner and showered right after, since the water will be shut off at 9pm.  Our water tank might take us through the night, but why take chances?

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

“Well done is better than

well said.”

~Benjamin Franklin 

Giving

Hi,

For now, the weather is warming up.  This week will be like spring, and then next week will be like last week.  Confused yet?  Me too.  We just get up and dress accordingly.

The ‘Old School Friday Holiday Special’ was “The Christmas Song” as sung by Nat ‘King’ Cole.  ‘Easy Monday’ should be familiar with long-time readers.  “I’m goin’ to Chicago, that’s the last place my baby stayed (__ __) yeah, __ __, baby… I’ve got to find that girl if I have to __ __ ‘round the world (__ __), __ __.”  Hint:  It’s a traveling song (555), the thumb is the key.   

Saturday morning three men came and took down the dead tree in the front yard.  Two big knives and a little chain saw was all it took.  We want to replace it, but not in the same place.  There is a stump still in the ground.  None of the trees that have died through the years, have ever had their roots removed.  I can’t tell you why.

We got a little Christmas tree for Nitchanan and the family, knowing she would be the one to want to decorate it.  We also found some battery-operated lights through Lazada.  At our stop at Little C we found even more lights.  They have tiny LED bulbs and are perfect for our tiny trees.  Today Nitchanan came over and Lisa gave her some things to put on the tree in the dining room.  She was thrilled, and very careful as she placed a piece and then rotated the tree to a new, bare spot.  

Sunday we took JaiDee to Chivit Thamma Da.  We hung out and he met with Nam Kok.  They’re still friends, but it’s a cooler vibe than before.  Something about being cool as a teenager (555).  After our visit we drove up to Browney Pet World so we could get JaiDee a proper sweater for the cold mornings.  His friend at the store was more than ready to sift through all the doggie clothes to find the right fit.  When we got home and tried it on, it was a perfect fit.  

We just found out that the water in the entire city of Chiang Rai will be shut off at 9pm tomorrow night until 6am Wednesday.  The announcement also said to be prepared to go longer if necessary.  They are installing new pipes.  

While most of the country is being super vigilant about virus protocols and keeping everyone safe, there was a big music festival.  First, the governor of the province shut it down, for obvious reasons.  The distancing wasn’t working and a lot of people were without masks.  Then another official reopened it as long as they were careful.  Only time will tell, but it seems like when you put more than 20,000 people in that environment, there will be mishaps.  

Our province seems to be handling the border better, checking everyone and quarantining those with symptoms.  No lockdown, just being very, very careful.

Have a Great Week.

                         Peace,

                                   Danny

“The giving of love is 

an education in itself.”

~Eleanor Roosevelt 

Friday Funnies

 Hi,

The weather was the same as yesterday.  In case you didn’t know it, Jupiter and Saturn appear to be close together in the SouthWest sky.  They’re actually quite far from each other, but to us it looks like they could touch.  You have until the 21st of this month to see this sight.

The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Lullaby of Birdland” by Ella Fitzgerald, among many others.  It was written by George Shearing and George Weiss.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UY8zK4R9oE8  Now we come to the end of the week and 'Old School Friday Holiday Special’.  This week should be a snap:  “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose.  Yuletide carols being sung by a choir and folks dressed up like Eskimos.  Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe, help to make the season bright….”  Hint:  Real simple title.  It’s by the same writer/singer combo that brought us ‘Route 66’.  Smooth voice as always.

Today we went back to Chivit Thamma Da with Cat and JaiDee.  After we ordered, we had a visit from Joakim and Nam Kok, his Golden.  The dogs were polite, and I had an interesting conversation with Joakim about a little car I had seen in the yard the last time we were there.  He explained that it was a Nissan Figaro, first released in 1991 and designed, as he was told, for women.  It’s a tiny convertible that came in four colors.  This one belongs to his wife and it appears to be a collector’s item.  

During our snack/meal time we somehow got into a conversation about alcohol, drugs and compulsion.  It began when she asked me a question she already knew the answer to:  Did you ever drink alcohol?  Then we progressed to the real story.  She has a cousin that she’s worried about.  It was one of our more ‘adult’ conversations and she has seen the results of the disease, but not had the benefit of personal stories.  

After Chivit we took JaiDee to the house and went in search of battery operated lights for the mini tree in the dinning room.  Cat came with us and we had fun.  She was helpful in explaining a few things we were looking for in other departments.  We had a Thai lesson and left with more than we came for, which often happens.

I haven’t been sleeping very well for a long time.  My new watch has confirmed it in exact numbers.  After lunch, we went to the health food store on Bus Station Street.  I had to double park while Lisa and Cat went inside.  They came back with Camomile tea and some natural capsules to promote sleep.  I’ll give it a try.  

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.         Time for the ‘Funnies’.   Stay @ Home and Be Safe.

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

Want

Hi,

Even though the phone app says it’s 57° every morning, each day feels colder than the last when we get up.  Somebody just phoned it in and didn’t step outside.

This week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune is apparently a stumper.  The mystery will be solved on Friday (55).

“And there’s a weepy old willow, he really knows how to cry.  That’s how I’d cry in my pillow, if you should tell me farewell and goodbye.  __ __ __ whisper low, kiss me sweet, and we’ll go.  Flying high in __, high in the sky up above, all because we’re in love.”  Clue:  What kind of song do you sing to a child to put them to sleep?  Get that and you have 1/3 of the puzzle.

After our morning hang out with the dogs, we hit the road.  It was ‘human morning’ at The Wanderer.  A pleasant time to sit under a tree, filtered sunlight and subtle breezes and just the quiet of the morning.  Then it was off the Big C.  What a contrast.  It was still early enough that shopping was easy.  With a short list, it was even easier.  Across from the vegetables there is a big Christmas tree display.  This is our first holiday season in Chiang Rai and we now have a tiny little tree for the dinning room table.  They didn’t really have much in the way of tiny decorations, but we got a start, and we’ll hunt down some battery operated lights to dress it up.  

Through the years, since the first major smokey season, we have been fortunate to have a very good air purifier.  It has kept us in clean air and given us peace of mind.  The only thing is, it is marketed by Amway and the only way to replace filters is to get them from Amway.  Every time we go into their store, we cringe, knowing there will be some membership hoop we’ll have to dance through.  Just like clockwork, my membership was expired and would require signing a bunch of forms, having my photo taken, and a copy made of my passport.  When we walked in we knew exactly what we wanted.  It took 15 minutes to finally give them the money and run out.  

While we were running errands, the dogs got exercised by Natcha and then relaxed.  She caught today’s photo.

One of the key elements that helped Thailand have such low numbers during the pandemic has been the cooperation of everyone.  Wherever you are in the world, if you do your part, as suggested, it can make a serious difference.  People here in Chiang Rai are still wearing masks with no complaints, they are checking in at business entrances, and stopping at the numerous ‘gel stations’ in stores to wash their hands.  Need I say more?

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

“Everything you want is on the other side

of fear.”

~George Addair

Practice

 Hi,

Weather is the same.  Glad it’s not snowing (555).  We’ve been slowly taking the warm blankets and clothing from the boxes and putting them within easy access.  Night time with no air/con, just an open window.  

This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Hotel California” by The Eagles.  Oddly, this song is very popular here in Thailand.  At an ArtBridge party after an opening, a trio played this and everybody sang along.  It’s time for another session of ‘Jazzy Wednesday’.  “Oh, __ __ __ that’s what I am.  Always here, when you sigh.  Never in my wordland could there be ways to reveal in a phrase, how I feel.  Have you ever heard two turtle doves, bill and coo when they love?  That’s the kind of magic music we make with our lips when we kiss.”  Hint:  Written as a theme for a popular New York Jazz Club radio show in 1952.  

Today was a slower day than yesterday.  It’s called balance (555).  We did venture out this afternoon, right after lunch.  We had two stops to make and we took JaiDee with us so he could get out a bit.  At the health food store we needed another bottle of tea-tree oil.  The eye doc suggested washing my eye lashes and help unclog some follicles. I must say, the 50-50 mixture with water was an experience I don’t want any time soon.  It stung like crazy.  Next time I’ll do it differently.  Our second stop was actually across the street at a pharmacy.  We needed a device to cut a tablet in half and they had one.  Got it home and it worked like a charm.  The ride home was fun for JaiDee, seeing the sights and looking for dogs.

This orchid plant in our front yard seems to enjoy the cold weather.  

The tiny little neighborhood behind us is still growing.  It’s not getting bigger, just denser.  Over the weekend we heard a dump truck and then a tractor.  I looked over the wall and behind our next-door neighbor a lot was being prepared for building.  Directly behind us there is still the last mini-farm.  It’s about half as wide as our yard, and very shallow, but there are vegetables growing.  The house behind us is still empty, and the meditation center is the same.  My guess is that when the whole covid thing is really over, we’ll see a boom in building.  We’ll see.

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                            Peace,

                                      Danny

“Many of us have been running all our lives.

Practice stopping.”

~Thich Nhat Hanh