Life

Hi,

We are slowly being led into winter.  Every morning it’s a little bit colder and the days are a touch cooler.  It won’t be long before we’ll be putting a blanket on the bed.  Shocking.

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Please Come Home For Christmas” by Charles Brown.  The Eagles did it many years later.  It’s time for ‘Easy Monday’ and I think you know this:  “Little surfer, little one, made my heart come all undone.  Do you love me, do you __ __?  __ __ my little __ __.  I have watched you on the shore, standing by the ocean’s roar.  Do you love me, do you __ __?”  Hint:  Really?  The song takes place on the beach.  Hmm.

Saturday evening was our big dinner with Cat and Noom at Favola Restaurant at Le Meridien Hotel.  We had a really nice time.  It was the first time the four of us had gone out for a ‘dress up’ meal together and it was special.  After dinner we took lots of photos outside the restaurant and then Noom presented Lisa with a beautiful orchid plant.  That was very cool.  It was his way of saying thanks for being Cat’s new parents.

The big news in Chiang Rai is the discovery that someone managed to come into Thailand at the northern border, who is positive with the virus.  Two women entered the Kingdom and one of them proceeded to visit various spots in the north before boarding a bus and traveling to Chiang Mai.  This has everyone on high alert around here.  Apparently the virus is finally being taken seriously across the border in Burma.  Restaurants and shops are closing, which poses a problem for Mae Sai (which borders Burma) since many Thais who work there are coming home.  The government is strengthening their checking procedure as a result of this news.  Fortunately, most folks in Chiang Rai have continued to follow the protection protocols and businesses are still checking temps and tracking visitors.  

This morning we had coffee with our friend Sutheera at The Wanderer.  Sitting in the woods in the quiet morning air has become one of our favorite things to do.  Schools in Chiang Rai have been on a break for a few weeks and tomorrow she will return to the classroom.  We had a lot of catching up to do and shared life stories.  

In the afternoon we had a video call with our friends Claire and Stephen, who now live in Tasmania.  They were the couple who introduced us to Favola Restaurant when Stephen was manager of Le Meridien.  We heard about life  Tasmania now that the virus is not present.  

Have a Great Week.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Where there is love there is life.”

~Mahatma Gandhi

Friday Funnies

Hi,

The weather?  You have to ask?  Actually, the lows are getting lower.  This may be the clue that winter is coming.

The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Autumn Leaves”, notably by Nat ‘King’ Cole in 1955, but is a standard.  This week’s ‘Old School Friday’ song is another holiday jam for your weekend looping: “Bells will be ringing, this sad sad news.  Oh what a Christmas to have the blues.  My baby’s gone, I have no friends to wish me greetings once again.  Choirs will be singing Silent Night, Christmas carols by candlelight.  __ __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __ __, if not for Christmas, by New Years night.”  Hint:  This song was originally released in 1960.  A sad song about going through the holidays without the one he loves, hoping she’ll return.

This morning we returned to The Wanderer with JaiDee.  As we ride through the village, JaiDee sits up, very alert in order to see the local dogs.  He spots most of them and sometimes turns around as we pass, to get the full view.  As we approached the entrance to The Wanderer, Lisa and I noticed ‘Sallee’ wandering around.  JaiDee didn’t see her, and we managed to get him inside before she came in.  Apparently, it’s the second time she’d slipped out this morning.  There were many distractions for the puppy and he turned out to be a handful.  A little ice and a rawhide bone and we were able to enjoy our coffee and roti.  

This afternoon we checked out the new walking track.  There is one lane for bikes, and a separated lane for walking.  The only problem we encountered was when we returned this evening with JaiDee, the lights were not on, so the place was in darkness.  Oh, the questions.

We noticed a big orange truck on our street when we left the house.  It was parked, taking up half of the street, and had a ‘cherry picker’ basket that was in the trees.  Later, Natcha told us that they came by and trimmed the trees that are near the many wires.  This is a good thing since everything is strung from pole to pole.  The one thing these guys were not doing was picking up after themselves.  This is nothing new.  We’ve had many repair people come and do work and not take away their trash.  Hmm, something missing in the training?

The land across the street has been cleared once again.  All the small trees and bushes were scooped up by a group of tractors and left in piles.  I guess they will either be taken away or burned.  Now there are signs along the property, advertising the sale of plots, just like a few years ago.  The goal appears to be a housing project.  Oh, that’s just wonderful.  

Meanwhile, behind the wall, one of our trees died.  It was the one that was just about to display yellow flowers.  There seem to be spots where the earth is just to heavy on the clay side.  Things will grow and then suddenly stop.  

Today’s photo will give you an idea of how big it got.

Tomorrow evening we’re taking Cat and Noom out for an adoption celebration dinner at Favola, the Italian restaurant at Le Meridien Hotel.  A night to dress up and use lots of utensils (555).  The evening is a special gift from our dear friends Lisa, and her father Walt, in Nevada.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.        Time for the ‘Funnies’.   Formula 1 is in Bahrain.  Zoom

                          Peace,

                                    Danny 

 

React

 Hi,

Well, we had another day, so you know how it went (555).  The forecasts call for temps to drop a few degrees starting tomorrow, but only a few a day.  We’re still waiting for that ‘snap’.

We’ll pick up where we left off on the ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune:  “Since you went away the days grow long, and soon I’ll hear old winter’s song.  But I miss you most of all, my darling, when __ __ start to fall.”  Clue:  I think I just left a big one.

Happy Thanksgiving, or as one of our American friends who lives here put it:  “As we say in Thailand:  Thursday”.  I hope everyone manages to give thanks in a way that is safe and sane (sound familiar?).  

We began our day with a trip to The Wanderer; a treat for JaiDee.  He hasn’t been in over a week and we could sense the excitement as he got in the van.  He stayed pretty mellow until it was time to leave the woods, and he saw Khun Khwan, one of his favorite people.  He went right back to crazy, puppy mode.  It’s a good thing it was with a dog person that knows him.

After taking JaiDee home we took TongTong to the vet for her last visit.  She has to wear a bandage until Sunday and then she’s done.  She got off easy with the treatment thing.  Both dogs have been pretty good about it all.  I think that seeing each other in the cones may have had something to do with it.  Lisa’s new name for them:  ‘Hoodie Heads’.  

We had the rest of the afternoon mapped out so we could take a nap and still get up in time for the big dinner event.  The only problem was, we weren’t that sleepy.  Any other day I would have been out, but today I dozed between football games.  Which leads me to something I’ve been meaning to tell you.  We dropped the NFL Channel a few months ago, to lower our package price.  They showed more talking than football anyway.  Now, ironically, we see more football than before on other channels.  I don’t understand it, but I watch.  We’ve gotten into NFL football lately, I even have some favorite teams and players.  So what if Sunday Night Football is on Wednesday afternoon (555).

Let me just say that the dinner event we attended this evening would have been outlawed in the States.  The restaurant was full, the service was buffet, and at times the only masks were on the servers.  The difference is in the numbers.  Chiang Rai has been virus free since the beginning.  That being said, it was a gas.  The food was delicious and in abundance.  To say that we pigged out would be an understatement.  We ate with friends, and had a booth next to our friend Caty and her twins.  

Today’s photo of The Moses Family at Thanksgiving Dinner.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                               Peace,

                                         Danny

“Reacting in anger or annoyance will not

advance one’s ability to persuade.”

~Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Wealth

 Hi,

The weather today was just like yesterday.  Well, maybe a little cooler in the early morning, but basically the same pattern.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Tracks of My Tears” by Smokey Robinson and The Miracles.  ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ is next:  “The falling leaves drift by the window.  The __ __ of red and gold.  I see your lips, the summer kisses, the   sun-burned hands I used to hold.”  Hint:  Another song of a season, but this one leaves stuff to pick up.

This was a different kind of day.  After our coffee on the porch, we went into town to the big market in search of baby socks.  Both dogs are wearing one each, to keep their foot (foots?) dry.  We’ve been going through a bunch of Nitchanan’s little socks.  Not far inside the entrance we use, there is a counter with a huge selection of cute, tiny socks.  Mission accomplished.  

Our conversation with Lisa’s dad Joe was great.  He’s working on a large art piece and keeps us posted on his experiments in his studio.  We’re very grateful for the wonders of Skype.  

JaiDee came upstairs with us after lunch and took a long nap.  He’s really getting used to being with us and staying calm.  TongTong was in the kitchen with Natcha and missed the move upstairs.  This evening, with her cone off, she dashed upstairs when the offer was made.  

Human ingenuity always offers surprises.  Today’s photo is a meat drying device that’s intended to be used for something else.  This way there is no chance of having flies and other bugs on the meat.  I think it’s sliced pork.  Kind of a ‘jerky’.  

Speaking of food, tomorrow we’re celebrating the food portion of Thanksgiving by dining at The Hungry Wolf.  We went last year and it was wonderful.  They pull out all the stops and present a buffet that can stuff even a picky eater like me (555).  We’ll be dining with Cat, our friend Lisa and her parents.  

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                         Peace,

                                   Danny

“The greatest wealth is to live

content with little.”

~Plato

Impossible

 Hi,

This morning I thought they had the weather all wrong.  Clouds came in around 7:30 and it looked like it might rain.  By lunchtime it was clear and hot again.  Hmm.

There were quite a few responses to the ‘Easy Monday’ song.  Maybe you'd remember it if you sang along (555).

“When you’re gone if you see me with another girl, acting like I’m havin’ fun.  Although she may be cute, she’s just a substitute, girl ‘cause you’re the permanent one.  So take a good look at my face… the __ __ __ __.”  Clue:  This was a big hit from the motor city, a singer and some miracles.  

We started our morning outside the walls with a trip to Chivit Thamma Da.  It was a hot coffee kinda day.  They were out of scones so we ended up with ‘toast’, which consisted of basic white bread sliced very thick.  It was pretty good with strawberry jam.  We left Chivit and went back home to pick up TongTong for her second trip to the vet.  Fortunately, we caught her problem early so she didn’t have to go through what JaiDee is dealing with.  She has no infection and goes back on Thursday.  

After our afternoon nap we packed up JaiDee for his trip to the doctor.  The reception room was jumping.  There were dogs of various sizes, a parrot in a tiny cage, and a large husky in a huge container.  When it was ‘our turn’, it was good news.  The infection was gone and he is much better.  No more medicine on his foot, but he has to keep it dry and wear the cone for 10 more days.  Oh no, not that.  Asking him to keep it dry is so funny.  Having him agree to wear the cone for 10 more days is an even bigger joke.  JaiDee is smart, it’s going to take a lot of ‘watching’ to keep him from having a set back.  Even with the cone, he is able to take the little sock we’re using, off of his foot and lick it.  

Cat and Noom came over this evening.  Noom missed JaiDee and Cat wanted to share some news about an internship she’s applying for in Bangkok that she’s very excited about.  JaiDee was out of control when they first arrived.  He usually sees them when we're out at the walking track and after a brief crazy period, he settles down when the walk/run begins with Noom.  This evening he was in the kitchen with his two favorite people.  It was just too much to handle.  Noom took him for a walk and that helped settle him.  They’re very cute together.

Today’s photo is another orchid from our garden.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                         Peace,

                                   Danny

“Most of the things worth doing 

in the world had been declared

impossible before they were done.”

~Louis D. Brandeis

Knowledge

 Hi,

A review of our weather will probably bore you, so I’ll just say: ‘Same as it ever was’.

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”, most notably by Bing Crosby.  On to easier things, with ‘Easy Monday’.  “People say I’m the life of the party ‘cause I tell a joke or two.  Although I may be laughin’ loud and hearty, deep inside I’m blue.  So take a good look at my face, you’ll see my smile looks out of place.  If you look closer, it’s easy to trace the __ __ __ __, I need you…”  Hint:  Walking and crying can get messy.

Saturday morning we did coffee without JaiDee.  Our friend John was disappointed that his friend would not be there.  We still managed to have a good time.  For some unknown reason, we decided to play it loose with our orders.  Lisa had iced coffee and chicken pie and I had hot coffee and caramel almond coffee cake.  I must say, the cake was simply delicious cake.  I don’t know why the ‘coffee’ is in the name.  It was quite decadent.

I don’t usually post a lot of food pics, but this takes the cake.

In the afternoon we took JaiDee back to the vet for a follow-up and a re-wrap of his foot.  He really enjoys riding around town.  Maybe we should do that more while he’s ‘grounded’.  

Sunday was spent at home.  With no one to keep an eye on JaiDee and his foot, we became his watchers.  He managed to get the first bandage off, even while wearing the cone.  As we approached evening, Lisa noticed TongTong’s right front foot looked irritated.  She has the same thing as JaiDee, but not quite as bad.  That meant first-aid and foot wrapping for Tong.  All we had were large size cones so that’s what she had to wear.  She was very cooperative about it, but not happy.  Today we took her to the vet for wound cleaning, etc.  Tomorrow we’ll take them both, since JaiDee is scheduled to return.  Our house is now the ‘House of Cones’.

Here are the ‘Coneheads’.

Someone in our area has decided that March is too soon to wait to start burning things.  Typically, that is when the waste from the rice harvest is burned off.  That has led to the practice of burning anything flammable, which has led to wide-scale air pollution, which has led to my seasonal anger.  Whew.  You get the idea.  This current bit of burning is foul smelling, which leads me to believe it’s not just plant-based.  I’m not the only person who takes great offense at this.  Hopefully, local residents will speak up and demand change.  It will take more than the voice of a foreigner to set this off.

Have a Great Week.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

"Real knowledge is to know the extent

of one’s ignorance."

~Confucius

Friday Funnies

 Hi,

The forecast site says it’s going to be 90 this weekend.  Now, if only we could do something about the night time temps, we could swim.  They keep bringing the pool temperature down.

This week’s ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Summertime” by Billie Holiday (first hit).  Note that there have been over 25,000 recordings of this song.  Wow!  On to ‘Old School Friday’, and the first of the seasonal songs that I’m going to set in your head.  Hey, blame it on two trips to the mall today.  “__ __ __ __ __, you can plan on me.  Please have snow and mistletoe, and presents by the tree.  Christmas eve will find me where the love light gleams.  __ __ __ __ __, if only in my dreams.”  Hint:  This one should get a lot of dedications on ‘call-in radio’.  

Things I forgot to tell you:  While talking with Dr. Arnon, JaiDee’s vet, we learned that he has been working at the Singha Park Zoo, treating zebras, goats, cows giraffes, and chickens.  Nothing like diversifying.  Yesterday we got an alert from the State Department about major demonstrations planned for today.  Things seem to be heating up in Bangkok.

Yesterday evening we got a call that Lisa’s new computer speakers had arrived.  This morning Cat came over and the three of us went to the mall before it opened and had coffee at Starbuck’s before going inside.  After leaving the computer for a 3-hour repair, we set off to pick up a few items in the mall.  Since I have been walking with an increased pace and for longer than before, I decided to take the advice of a physical therapist and get some shoes with better support.  The three of us went to the big sports center and got help in finding what I needed.  It’s the first time I’ve had to tie shoes in ages, but it felt good.  Found what felt right and brought them home.  Ironically, tonight is the first night in a long time that we haven’t walked.  The shoes want to know why they’re still in the box. 

After lunch we got the call that the computer was ready.  Well, there went the nap (555).  We went back to the mall and brought home the laptop with clear, stereo sound.  We didn’t exactly take it home because we had another engagement to attend.  We met a group of my friends from Mae Chan at The Wanderer.  Three of the four had never been there before.  They arrived before us and ‘wandered’ around and ordered a late lunch.  They’re all from South Africa and two of them are returning on Monday.  We had some great conversations about phones of the past, living in another country, and how are lives have changed through the years.  

The next stop on our busy schedule was back at The Big Brown House, where the group followed us to get a look at Lisa's artwork.  It was an interesting gallery tour.  They asked good questions and the artist gave very clear answers.  It’s also satisfying, I suppose, when people seem to be paying attention to the work and notice the style touches, etc.  

After dinner Lisa loaded her latest work, a collage painting, into the van and we delivered it to Art Bridge for the annual ‘member’s show’ that opens around December 26.  While we were there, we saw the ‘small works’ show in the upstairs gallery.  

 Today’s photo is an orchid from our front yard.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.         Wear that mask and stay cool.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

Artist

Hi,

It looks like winter blew in for a few days and then left.  Daytime temps are hitting 90°F with low 60’s at night.  What’s going on?

We left off mid verse in our ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune:  “Your daddy’s rich and your ma is good lookin’.  So hush, little baby, don’t you cry.”  Clue:  This song began life in 1938 and is still performed today.  I’m sure you’ve hummed it.

This morning we went to Chivit Thamma Da for coffee and food with our friend Lisa and her dad Win.  We always have a fun time with them.  Before they arrived I mentioned to the server that it seemed very busy (it was crowded at 9:30am).  She told us it was the beginning of a four-day holiday.  We didn’t know that.  It’s another one of the government ‘created’ holidays to encourage Thai tourism.  It seems to be working.  One of today’s conversation topics was genealogy.  With the dawn of computers and science, we all know a lot more about our ancestry.  The one thing that sets some history apart from others has to do with beginnings.  I pointed out that my family history begins at the shore of this continent.  Hopefully, one day it can go beyond that.

Today’s photo is from August of 2010 on Koh Lanta.  This was one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever seen.

Yesterday, at the vet’s, when it was time for JaiDee to go to the examination room, he made a direct dash for the front door.  Dogs have memories.  Last night was a rough night for our puppy.  The first part, he was very laid back. Then, whatever he was given to relax his foot wore off and he started doing that little ‘cry’ that dogs do when in discomfort.  He had rolled off of his cushion and was on the floor.  Lisa spent hours on his cushion, petting him and keeping him calm.  When she went downstairs, around 3am, I took over.  As long as I touched him, he was fine.  Today he’s doing much better, walking around and wanting to go with us every time we go to the back door.  He knows the routines that are a part of his world.  I keep telling him that this is just temporary.  

This evening JaiDee just knew he was going with us to the walking place.  You could see the disappointment on his face when we told him he had to stay at home.  The consolation was, he was going to stay with Natcha.  We went to walk early and tried walking in the same direction as everyone else.  It felt very weird.  When we oppose the traffic, we get to see faces and greet people.  Tonight that didn’t happen.  Two people asked us ‘where’s the dog?’.  One of those was our friend Dr. Nan, who came running up behind us with the question.  She is a real runner, and was training with her ‘team’.  Tonight was their final group training before a big race on the 29th.  They will run in a 104k (64.5 miles) race to another city and back.  Tonight they started at 6:30 and would run until midnight.  Whew.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                           Peace,

                                     Danny

“Every artist was first 

an amateur.”

~Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Imagination

Hi,

The weather was a carbon copy of the last two days.  The sky had a few patchy clouds, but the night sky was clear, and the stars were visible.  

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “Michelle” by The Beatles (actually Paul).  Here’s another easy one for ‘Jazzy Wednesday’:  “__ and the livin’ is easy.  Fish are jumpin’ and the cotton is high…”  Hint:  It’s a season, from a musical, and oh so easy.  That’s why I only gave you two lines.

This was a Big C day.  We got there a little later than usual and it was not very crowded.  Not sure why, but it was nice to breeze through the store.  We stopped by The Wanderer on our way, and missed a big group of visitors.  We’ve gotten a bit spoiled by going to our coffee places early when there’s no waiting for our order (555).  I am happy to see our favorites doing good business though.  

This afternoon we went to Ban Du, the community north of us, to get hot-spot cream for JaiDee and look for ‘pool noodles’ at Mega Home.  JaiDee has one foot that needed medication, but it’s not to be licked off.  We were dreading another round with him in a hood, but it looks like it will have to happen.  The pool things are long foam tubes that can be cut and strung like beads and place around the dogs neck to keep them from reaching places under care.  We haven’t found them yet, but we ordered some.  Meanwhile, we took JaiDee to Dr. Arnon this afternoon and they treated his foot.  The first thing they do is weigh the patient.  He weighs 25.5 kilos (56.5 lbs).  They took him into a room I had never seen, and we had to wait in front.  Quite a while later our little man emerged with a very tidy, professional looking bandage on his right rear foot.  For the time being there will be no long walks, no play time with TongTong, he has to stay inside, and he will have to take meds and wear a hood.  This evening he got upset when we went out to walk around the house.  He was supposed to be with us.  

The other day we turned on the waterfall to see if it still worked.  It did and we realized how much we missed it.

The Thai government is planning to extend the ‘State of Emergency’ until January 15.  Given the outbreaks and surges in the virus around the world, it makes total sense.  We don’t mind at all.  It worked before and it can continue to work.  Stay safe, it’s nasty out there.

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                             Peace,

                                       Danny

“Logic will get you from A to B.  

Imagination will take you everywhere.”

~Albert Einstein 

Kind

 Hi,

The weather has settled down and is in a groove we can deal with.  The mornings are ‘sweater cool’, the days are hot, and the evenings are cool again.

This week’s ‘Easy Monday’ song appears to be the real deal.  Many of you wrote to tell me a relationship with the tune.  “I love you, I love you, I love you.  That’s all I want to say.  Until I find a way, I will say the only words I know that you’ll understand.  __, ma belle, sont des mots qui vont tres bien ensemble, tres bien ensemble…”  Clue:  The singer has fallen for someone who doesn’t understand him, yet.  My suggestion would be: don’t use Google translate.

Yesterday, in my enthusiasm to tell you about our busy Monday, I forgot to tell you about the big news from Saturday.  I had my second check-up with the cardiologist.  After three tests, we went into his tiny office.  He explained the little wave lines on the Electro Cardiogram print out.  He told me that if he didn’t know better, he could not tell from my tests that I’d had a heart attack.  I was ‘almost normal’.  I haven’t heard that in a long time (555).  He was very pleased with my progress.  The other target is my cholesterol, which was lower than last time.  I think this calls for pie.

Today’s photos were taken a Central Plaza Mall.  Early decorations happen all over the world.  What?  I wonder who will sit in that velvet chair.

Now that my passport is in Bangkok, I really have to behave myself.  Fortunately, staying in Chiang Rai makes that easy.  Most places that want to see an ID will accept my Thai driver license.  If they want to see my passport, the copy is usually accepted.  I wouldn’t risk driving out of town, and I have no intention of flying any time soon, so life goes on.

On the home front, a husband and wife team came and cut down 3 large fan palms that our neighbor said were leaning into her yard.  This is not the first time this has happened, and we just smile and have it dealt with.  When they arrived, JaiDee was first to sound the alarm, but now TongTong has appointed herself as guard number 2 and her bark is very threatening.  

Nitchanan’s school is closed for two weeks, so she has time on her hands part of the day.  Yesterday she came over and she and Lisa read some books together while Natcha cooked dinner.  She is eager to learn and has a great memory.  

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Be kind whenever possible.

It is always possible.”

~Dalai Lama

Arise

Hi,

Sunday morning we woke up looking for the snow, it was that cold.  It finally warmed up, but what a shock, reportedly 59°.  Today was warmer.  

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “I Only Have Eyes For You” by The Flamingos.  ‘Easy Monday’ should be a snap:

“__, ma belle.  These are words that go together well, my __.  __, ma belle, sont des mots qui vont tres bien

ensemble, tres bien ensemble….”  Hint:  In case you hadn’t noticed, there is French involved, as well as a girl’s name. Presented by those four lads from across the pond in ’65.

Saturday morning we went to Chivit Thamma Da without the dog.  We did see JaiDee’s friend Nam Kok and he hung out with us for a few minutes.  He stood by the table and leaned against Lisa’s leg.  When we got home, both dogs spent a great deal of time sniffing that leg.  JaiDee knew where we’d been, but TongTong was a bit puzzled.  The place was pretty crowded, but not as crowded we were told, as when a very important police person came with a party of 40.  Wow.

Sunday we went to The Wanderer with Cat and JaiDee.  We had some nice visits with the ‘family’ that owns the place, and JaiDee got a couple of walks in the woods.  

Natcha, Gong and Nitchanan went to a new coffee place north of us and sent us photos of Nitchanan having fun running around and ‘driving’ a big ATV.  Natcha wants to take us there one day soon.    

Some of the simplest toys can provide the most enjoyment for little kids.  Today’s photo shows Nitchanan running in the yard with her colorful spinning flower.  It doesn’t show in the photo, but it was spinning and she was thrilled.

Today was a busy day.  After coffee on the porch with the dogs, we went into town.  My passport is due for renewal in March, and the process has to be done by mail.  The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok is expediting the process, since travel is not so practical these days.  The first step was to get two bank drafts to pay for the new ‘book’.  Since it was Monday morning, we ended up waiting and then leaving, too slow.  Next, we got a photo taken that was supposed to be the right size.  From there we went to the mall.  It was just about to open so we did the Starbuck’s thing and then dove in.  Lisa needs a repair on her laptop, so while they checked it out, I paid our phone bills and then we went to our bank in the mall.  No waiting.  This is something we have to remember in the future.  It was amazing.  

After a late lunch at home, we went back out for a trip to the post-office to mail the passport and then back to the mall, to pick up Lisa’s computer and get a calendar.  We bought one last week, but the week began on Monday and ended on Sunday.  Visually, it’s a little disorienting.  The brain just couldn’t deal (555).  What a day!

Have a Great Week.   

                         Peace,

                                   Danny

“When you arise in the morning, think of what

a precious privilege it is to be alive, to breathe,

to think, to enjoy, to love.”

~Marcus Aurelius 

Friday Funnies

 Hi,

It was another blue sky day in Chiang Rai.  Sitting in the sun in the afternoon was not a good idea.  It got very hot, even though ‘they said’ it was only in the upper 80’s.  I moved to the shade.

The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ song was “Cry Me A River” by everyone from Julie London to Joe Cocker.  Time for another trip back in time (as if we don’t do that every song).  Here’s one from ’59:  “My love must be a kind of blind love.  I can’t see anyone but you.  Are the stars out tonight?  I don’t know if it’s cloudy or bright.  __ __ __ __ __ __, dear.  The moon may be high, but I can’t see a thing in the sky, ‘cause __ __ __ __ __ __.”  Hint:  Vision is involved along with lush harmonies.  Group gets its name from a tall, pink bird.

Today was a ‘Doggie Day’.  JaiDee had a play date with Duke, the Chow-Chow.  Duke is 8 months old now and he’s a big beast.  The boys seemed to remember each other, so they went right to exploring the yard, with occasional wrestling.  They waited until they got on the porch for their formal matches.  On the lawn they were pretty cool.  Duke lives in a compound with 9 other dogs.  Some are outside dogs and a few inside pets.  Since JaiDee has had TongTong as a playmate, he’s learned how to understand and also set boundaries.  A few times he snapped and growled at Duke, which surprised him.  At his home turf, Duke throws his weight around, but not in JaiDee's yard.  JaiDee found a stick and began to chew on it.  Duke came over and seemed amazed that you could do that.  Now he’ll be looking for sticks when he gets home.

We had plans for the rest of the day, but they got brushed aside in favor of rest and relaxation.  Friday afternoon is not the time to be running around town anyway, now that we have real traffic.  Why, I remember when…  

So, one of the ‘benefits’ of not being able to travel freely is the fact that we will be in Chiang Rai over the holiday period for the first time in the 13 years we’ve lived here.  We’ve been invited to a Christmas dinner party, and a big birthday celebration, plus, we’ll get to see the annual Flower Show by the river.  We’ve decided not to go to the Clock Tower on New Years, just because it’s too many people jammed together.  Think: Mini Times Square.  

Tomorrow morning I have an appointment with Dr. Watana, my cardiologist.  This will be my second check-up since the ‘event’.  So much fun at 8am on a Saturday morning should be illegal (555).

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.      Time for the ‘Funnies’.   Formula 1 is in Turkey this week.  Zoom!

                       Peace,

                                 Danny

Vision

Hi,

Welcome to the new weather pattern:  Cold mornings, hot days, cool evenings, rinse and repeat.

A bunch of you knew the ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune.  Maybe this part of the song will bring back memories:

“You drove me, nearly drove me out of my head while you never shed a tear.  Remember, I remember all that you said.  You told me love was too plebeian, told me you were through with me and… Now you say you love me, well just to prove you do.  Come on and __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __, ‘cause __ __ __ __ over you.”  Clue:  It’s a sultry torch song from the cool jazz years.  It had a wonderful cover in a live performance, that literally took the tune to church.

We started our day in the usual way, only these days we’re wearing sweaters.  A lot of territory was covered once we got out in the street.  Our travels took us north of town to Bangkok Hospital for a check-in with Lisa’s neurologist, then back into town to ‘Little C’ for coffee at Amazon.  A few minutes from there and we were at Makro for food for the dogs.  By the time all that happened, it was almost time for lunch.

How many of you remember the days when soft drinks were called ‘soda pop’ or ‘pop’?  Today, at Amazon Coffee they had our photo for the day.  If you look closely, you’ll see that it’s a house brand.  Hmm, a time traveler at work?

This afternoon we went to Art Bridge to deliver Lisa’s submission to the annual ‘Small Picture’ exhibition.  We took a little time to look at the current exhibit.  There were some large pieces that we enjoyed, and some color photography on canvas that was very interesting.  

This photo is Lisa’s paper sculpture mask.  It is 3 Dimensional.

Our final stop was on the way home, so why not visit Browney’s Pet World?  After that, we were just in time to be a part of the ‘rush hour’ traffic.  We are usually not in the streets at this hour, and especially on the road leading to the afternoon market.  The time passed as we listened to a new audio book we just started.  Going slow gives one a chance to really take in the neighborhood that’s usually just a blur.  

Have a Thrilling Thursday.  Wear your mask, stay safe.

                         Peace,

                                   Danny

“The only thing worse than being blind

is having sight but no vision.”

~Helen Keller 

Lesson

Hi,

The weather is definitely changing.  This morning was definitely colder than days before.  The weather people said it was 61°F but it felt a little cooler.  Maybe that was the temp downtown, where the concrete holds the heat.  Hmm, must remember that.  It warmed up to the usual mid 80 something, and cooled down again this evening.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song was “We Are The Champions” by Queen.  Are you ready for another ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune?  I think you know this one:  “Now you say you’re lonely, you cried the whole night through.  Well, you can

__ __ __ __, __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __ over you.”  Hint:  There is water involved (5).  It’s had many recordings through the years.  

This morning we went to Chivit Thamma Da for coffee and snacks with our friend Lisa.  We sat at a different table than usual, closer to the river, under a tree.  It was a nice change of scenery.  We discovered a new beverage while Lisa was ordering.  She asked for a Stockholm tea with almond milk.  The way they serve it at Chivit is with coffee added.  The tea itself is a black tea.  The almond milk gives it a lighter taste than cow’s milk.  Lisa and Lisa shared their childhood histories and it was very interesting hearing our friend's story’.  We heard about an international childhood that was fascinating.  The photo below was taken from our table.

After Chivit we went to Big C for the weekly shopping.  Normally, we arrive a little after opening while the store is relatively empty.  It was after 11:00 but not as crowded as we imagined, and maybe that’s because everybody was across the highway at Central Plaza Mall, where they were having a giant ’11.11’ sale.  We drove onto the property and immediately wanted to leave, so we did.  It looked like a madhouse.  Our main reason for going was not even shopping, so we’ll go back on Friday when they open.  

Our plan for the morning included having lunch at the mall.  Now that we were driving away from the mall, we needed a lunch destination.  We chose Sabroso Mexican Food.  The two young women who basically ‘run’ the dining room remember regular customers and greet them by name.  It feels good; reminds me of Cheers.  It also reminds me of a Japanese restaurant we used to go to in Culver City many years ago.  The staff behind the sushi bar would shout something in Japanese whenever a new patron would enter.  It always made everyone feel like they just arrived at a party.  

This evening Cat and her boyfriend Noom met us at the walking place so JaiDee could get a good workout.  Noom and JaiDee took off and we didn’t see them for 25 minutes.  Needless to say, the puppy is pretty tired right now.  

It’s been a good day and to cap it off, we posted another one of my tunes on Facebook/Youtube for your listening pleasure (555).  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhLg_m-Us3c

Feels like a Wacky Wednesday.

                          Peace,

                                    Danny

“The ultimate lesson all of us have to learn is

unconditional love, which includes others but

ourselves as well.”

~Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Education

Hi,

The weather?  Yep, same as it ever was.  Cool mornings, sunny skies with warm days and slightly cool evenings,  realizing of course, that these are all relative references.  In a few more weeks, I’ll be screaming about freezing cold with highs in the 60’s.

The ‘Easy Monday’ song should still be easy.  The chorus is almost like an anthem for football (soccer) teams.

“__ __ __ __, my friends.  And we’ll keep on fighting till the end.  __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __, no time for losers ‘cause __ __ __ __, of the world.”  Clue:  Group performing this tune is named after female royalty in their country.  

On Sunday we went to the 60th birthday party for our long-time dear friend Supalak.  It was held at the Grand Vista Hotel.  This is someplace we’d never been before, so there was a bit of adventure in that.  The ballroom was on the third floor and this told us it was not going to be an intimate party.  When the doors opened there was a Happy Birthday banner with balloons and a big, throne-like chair.  The guest of honor was looking magnificent and after a warm greeting, she showed us to our table.  There was no one else there, but that would soon change.  She had a plan.  A man with three children came to the table and Supalak motioned that they were to sit with us.  It turns out he spoke very good English and she wanted us to feel comfortable.  After introductions, we learned that he is the owner and CEO of Miss Grand Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Rai), and also owns a chain of laundromats.  You may remember me telling you about the very tall women we saw at Central Plaza Mall one day, that happened to be beauty contestants.  Well, they were his ‘talent’.  Beauty pageants are a big thing in Thailand.  Our table companion has lectured on business practices at the local university and knows our friend Sutheera, who is a professor in the Business department.  He also was very interested in art.  A little later, another guest came to our table.  He didn’t speak as much English, but the two men were friends and he was also a major businessman in Chiang Rai.  He owns an eye-care chain that is huge.  In fact, we’ve been to several of his locations over the years.  They helped pass the time with questions as well as laughter.  After almost 2 hours, it was time to gracefully say our goodbyes.  Some of our friends that we’d hoped to see didn’t arrive until late.  They had been in a bicycle race (120k) around the city.  

Today’s photo was taken yesterday at The Wanderer.  Mercy was just hanging out, resting her chin on the rail, watching us.  That’s Joey next to her.

We spent this day inside the walls.  It was a 'recharge the batteries’ day.  Tomorrow we get back out there and ‘do’ things.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“Education must not simply teach work,

it must teach life.”

~W.E.B. Du Bois 

When?

 Hi,

Our weekend weather was more of the same beautiful stuff as last week.  Mid 80’s during the day and mid 60’s at night.  I think it must get colder right before dawn, or maybe all night.  I never go out to check (5).

The ‘Old School Friday’ song was “Venus” by Frankie Avalon.  It’s ‘Easy Monday’ time, from 1978.  Operatic rock.

“I’ve paid my dues, time after time.  I’ve done my sentence but committed no crime.  And bad mistakes, I’ve made a few, I’ve had my share of sand kicked in my face, but I’ve come through.  __ __ __ __, my friends…”  Hint:  See, I told you it was easy (555)

Well, as of 10:30 this morning, Cat is officially our daughter.  We are all overjoyed.   Our attorney had made an appointment at the Provincial Administration Office so they would expedite the process.  The wait wasn’t bad, considering what was coming.  We signed a bunch of papers and then went out in front of the building and took photos.  Khun Nitt, our attorney was just as excited as us.  I think the fact that he read Cat’s story in her own words may have drawn him into the joy.  She was so excited that this afternoon she drove out to her village and had her named changed on her Thai ID so that her last name is now Moses. 

Today’s photo introduces The New Moses Family (and our attorney).

We went to The Wanderer for coffee and treats and on the way, Cat asked if she could call us Mom and Dad.  She had wanted to, but said it just didn’t feel completely right.  Now it’s right.  From The Wanderer, we moved the party over to The Hungry Wolf for lunch.  

This has been an overwhelmingly wonderful day.  I’ll tell you about the weekend tomorrow (555).  

Have a Great Week.

                        Peace,

                                  Danny

“When will our consciences grow so tender 

that we will act to prevent human misery

rather than avenge it?”

~Eleanor Roosevelt

Friday Funnies

Hi,

Postcard weather, that’s what I call it.  The sky was clear and the air was warmish.  All the the shades of green were glistening in the sunshine.  Sounds like a pretty mushy day, right?  Seriously, it was great.  More please.

The ‘Jazzy Wednesday’ tune was “Something Cool”, originally recorded by June Christy.  Here’s a clip of her singing it live https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GkUM4jE-ZE   That brings us to ‘Old School Friday’.  “__, if you will, please send a little girl for me to thrill.  A girl who wants my kisses and my arms, a girl with all the charms of you.  __, make her fair, a lovely girl with sunlight in her hair, and take the brightest stars up in the skies and place them in her eyes for me.”  Hint:  Should be easy.  If you remember the bridge, then you got this.  The title is the name of a ‘public figure’.  Commentary:  File this one under ‘Songs that couldn’t be written today’.  It’s from 1959.

This morning’s adventure began with a visit to Chivit Thamma Da.  The three of us (Lisa, JaiDee and me) arrived to see a full parking lot.  That’s how beautiful the morning was.  We got our usual table after the usual staff greeting at the front door and more along the way.  Not only did JaiDee get to see some of his fans, but his friend Nam Kok was there also.  After our relaxing riverside snack we drove north to the village of Ban Du for a post-office stop.  Lisa went inside and JaiDee and I sat in the van and I explained what she was doing.  He seemed interested (555).  The next stop had him very interested.  When we pulled into the lot at Browney’s Pet World, I think he knew where he was.  He got more love from his good friend, the manager, and one of the staff that always gives him a snack.  On our way home we stopped at the pharmacy.  JaiDee and I sat outside and watched a local dog checking things out on the sidewalk.  It was a busy morning.

Today’s photo was taken at Gallery 333 in River City, Bangkok, by a member of the support staff for the exhibit Lisa’s work appeared in.  The initial exhibit was moved to Gallery 333 for a month run.  Here, on the back wall are all four of Lisa’s works.  There were 21 artists in the exhibition.

Last but not least, Monday morning we will go on one of our coolest adventures.  We will meet with Cat and our attorney in a court where she will become our adopted daughter.  For the last seven years she has been like a daughter.  When we realized a few years ago that she thought of us as her parents, we started thinking about it.  This is, of course, the short version, but for the three of us it makes sense.  Anyway, I wanted to share this happy event with you.

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.       Stay calm and breathe.

                         Peace,

                                   Danny