Hi,
Judging from the mail I got yesterday, we were all singing in our heads, though probably not the same section at the same time. Lots of choices. If it didn't come to you, maybe this chapter will ring a bell. Have a good time with it.
"I see a little silhouetto of a man Scaramouch, scaramouch will you do the fandango
Thunderbolt and lightning - very very frightening me Gallileo, Gallileo...." This one is interesting because the title is not a lyric in the song. To my thinking (uh,oh) this is one of the most unusual hit songs in popular music, especially considering the times. What else to say except that there's an air of royalty in the group's name.
We got our visas yesterday. We are official, certified, stamped, and paid in full. As Lisa put it, we really pose no threat. What was interesting about the whole process is that we were not treated as suspects or threats at any time. This, of course, is contrary to how 'some' countries handle immigration. Nuff said.
We went downtown to pick up a few gifts (not for us) and have lunch. Such restraint and composure. We saw, but didn't buy. Wait, we went to the mall and I bought socks, but that was planned. The impulse thing is pretty much under control. Only because we're still cutting back on our bags. Just wait 'til we get to Chiang Rai.
I can't believe how calm I've been without a T.V. It's as though a wave of acceptance and serenity washed over me and dulled me out. Maybe it's the confidence in reruns and DVD collections that's allowing me to stay calm. What ever, I'm sure everyone around me is happy.
Well, I'm off on a 'hairy' adventure (get it?). Next time you see me, I won't look like the me you saw the last time you saw me. (Ha)
Today's quote was sent to me by Blue. It was sent to him by a fan of Seawind (a group we've loved for years. History later).
Have a Thursday on the house.
Peace,
Danny
"Kindness and compassion towards all living beings is a mark of a civilized society. Racism, economic deprival, dog fighting and cock fighting, bullfighting and rodeos are all cut from the same defective fabric: violence. Only when we have become nonviolent towards all life will we have learned to live well ourselves."
:: Cesar Chavez
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Trail
Hi,
The ghost is back. I'm talking about the paragraph space. Oh well, doesn't really matter. What matters is, the thing still works.
Aren't you proud of yourself for knowing the song (even though you didn't write to tell me)?? I'm happy for you. The song title was "Fly Like An Eagle", by The Steve Miller Band, 1976. Lane writes: An earlier 1973 version of the song features a more bluesy and less funk-inspired rhythm, and guitar taking the synthesizer parts (albeit with similar delay effects). The lyrics are slightly different, indicating that the place the eagle wants to fly away from is a Native American reservation.
"Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy? Caught in a landslide, no escape from reality..." Hint: We've traveled with them before. Longtime readers should remember this memorable operetta. If there's weak response, the clues may get deeper. Have fun, sing it all day, out loud. (scare people)
Yesterday we did the deed. Arrived at the Thai Consulate with all of our stuff, fairly organized and they loved it. Papers were shuffled and collated and we were sent to window #2. There was some partial scrutiny, pages were stamped and 'O-A' writen at the top. That signifies Retirement Visa. Then we were sent to window #4 where we paid our money. Everyone kept saying come back tomorrow after 10:30 to pick up your visa. What? Yea! Whoopie! Still waiting until we have paper in hand before we really cut loose. (shhh, I'm secretly dancing inside)
The August Chronicles: If you recall, last week I thought it might be the end of the Chronicles, since our weekly visits might have to end. Well, I misspoke. It turns out, he's never seen Norm's house. He knows Norm, and his crews because they've done major work for Jeff and Anna. That's another story. When I picked him up and told him where we were going, his eyes lit up. They were already pretty bright from telling me all about crickets. Everybody at Science Camp went home with a 'cricket condo', and lots of info. Did you know that only boy crickets make noise at night? You should have heard us trying to explain why the girls don't make noise. Anyway, when we pulled up in front of the house, sound of amazement came from the back seat. Things like 'That's the biggest house I've ever seen' and 'That's a great house'. August knew, from the things Norm had put in his (August's) house, that this one should have some tricks. He was quite impressed with the bathroom 'Chamber' and we let him turn on the lights and the radio with the remote. Another big hit was the massage chair. Lots of buttons to push. We got him to describe what each function was doing. He did a good job, with verbal and hand gestures.
We had a light dinner and did more exploring. August loved the washing machine, with so many options and things to push and control. He doesn't just look at buttons. He creates a result in his mind. By that, I mean, he imagines what's happening when an action is taken. His logic is very accurate. Which brings us to another part of the adventure. When we got to his house, he had to show me something. (he always has to show me something) He picked up a box and set it on the floor. He then announced that he had done this all by himself, with no help. The 'This' he spoke of was the complete disassembly of his music player/radio. He had permission to do this, by the way. I ask him what he was going to do with it and he calmly told me it was going in the trash. But he was saving the speakers. My kinda guy. He then proceeded to connect one of the speakers to another CD player and tape it to the back. It worked and joy filled the house.
I've added the blogspot address to the signature, so you don't have to worry about losing it. Just bookmark it and you can always find me. I'll be adding some new things when we get to LOS.
As we approach our exit, many things are changing. One of those is my head. Not the inside (constantly changing) but the outside. The natural has grown to the point where it's hard to keep it neat (and I'm not in a cutting mood). Bumping into things, the thought of traveling with 'bed-head', it's just to overwhelming. So, tomorrow it's all getting twisted up and I'll be sporting a new look, similar to an old look. I've wanted to do this for some time, and was partially inspired by 'heads' I saw on our last visit. Plus, less hair product to pack, I think.
Enough. I'm taking C-Bass to Sports Camp this morning. Right now I need to spend a few minutes shedding some excess from my luggage. Oh, the pain.
Have a Wacky Wednesday!
Peace,
Danny
"Do not go where the path may lead;
go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style http://www.gratidude.blogspot.com
The ghost is back. I'm talking about the paragraph space. Oh well, doesn't really matter. What matters is, the thing still works.
Aren't you proud of yourself for knowing the song (even though you didn't write to tell me)?? I'm happy for you. The song title was "Fly Like An Eagle", by The Steve Miller Band, 1976. Lane writes: An earlier 1973 version of the song features a more bluesy and less funk-inspired rhythm, and guitar taking the synthesizer parts (albeit with similar delay effects). The lyrics are slightly different, indicating that the place the eagle wants to fly away from is a Native American reservation.
"Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy? Caught in a landslide, no escape from reality..." Hint: We've traveled with them before. Longtime readers should remember this memorable operetta. If there's weak response, the clues may get deeper. Have fun, sing it all day, out loud. (scare people)
Yesterday we did the deed. Arrived at the Thai Consulate with all of our stuff, fairly organized and they loved it. Papers were shuffled and collated and we were sent to window #2. There was some partial scrutiny, pages were stamped and 'O-A' writen at the top. That signifies Retirement Visa. Then we were sent to window #4 where we paid our money. Everyone kept saying come back tomorrow after 10:30 to pick up your visa. What? Yea! Whoopie! Still waiting until we have paper in hand before we really cut loose. (shhh, I'm secretly dancing inside)
The August Chronicles: If you recall, last week I thought it might be the end of the Chronicles, since our weekly visits might have to end. Well, I misspoke. It turns out, he's never seen Norm's house. He knows Norm, and his crews because they've done major work for Jeff and Anna. That's another story. When I picked him up and told him where we were going, his eyes lit up. They were already pretty bright from telling me all about crickets. Everybody at Science Camp went home with a 'cricket condo', and lots of info. Did you know that only boy crickets make noise at night? You should have heard us trying to explain why the girls don't make noise. Anyway, when we pulled up in front of the house, sound of amazement came from the back seat. Things like 'That's the biggest house I've ever seen' and 'That's a great house'. August knew, from the things Norm had put in his (August's) house, that this one should have some tricks. He was quite impressed with the bathroom 'Chamber' and we let him turn on the lights and the radio with the remote. Another big hit was the massage chair. Lots of buttons to push. We got him to describe what each function was doing. He did a good job, with verbal and hand gestures.
We had a light dinner and did more exploring. August loved the washing machine, with so many options and things to push and control. He doesn't just look at buttons. He creates a result in his mind. By that, I mean, he imagines what's happening when an action is taken. His logic is very accurate. Which brings us to another part of the adventure. When we got to his house, he had to show me something. (he always has to show me something) He picked up a box and set it on the floor. He then announced that he had done this all by himself, with no help. The 'This' he spoke of was the complete disassembly of his music player/radio. He had permission to do this, by the way. I ask him what he was going to do with it and he calmly told me it was going in the trash. But he was saving the speakers. My kinda guy. He then proceeded to connect one of the speakers to another CD player and tape it to the back. It worked and joy filled the house.
I've added the blogspot address to the signature, so you don't have to worry about losing it. Just bookmark it and you can always find me. I'll be adding some new things when we get to LOS.
As we approach our exit, many things are changing. One of those is my head. Not the inside (constantly changing) but the outside. The natural has grown to the point where it's hard to keep it neat (and I'm not in a cutting mood). Bumping into things, the thought of traveling with 'bed-head', it's just to overwhelming. So, tomorrow it's all getting twisted up and I'll be sporting a new look, similar to an old look. I've wanted to do this for some time, and was partially inspired by 'heads' I saw on our last visit. Plus, less hair product to pack, I think.
Enough. I'm taking C-Bass to Sports Camp this morning. Right now I need to spend a few minutes shedding some excess from my luggage. Oh, the pain.
Have a Wacky Wednesday!
Peace,
Danny
"Do not go where the path may lead;
go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style http://www.gratidude.blogspot.com
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Discover
Hi,
Today, I'll be brief. (crowd roars with approval) We spent most of yesterday preparing for today. There was the bank account statement, police clearance, notary, photos, cashier checks and a zillion copies of everything. Then it had to be assembled. Now we're ready and today is the day. It's supposed to take about two days to get the visa, but once the materials are accepted, it's pretty much a done deal. (he said with hope)
I was impressed that so many of you responded to the 'easy' song. If you didn't quite figure it out, remember this:
"Time keeps on slippin', slippin', slippin', Into the future" Now, do you really need more clues?
It just occurred to me that we really don't have a way to spend our evenings with The Boys. Although bringing August to Norm's would be like a trip to 'plug in world' for him. All the gadgets and innovations would blow his little mind. Tempting, but not going to happen. Hmm, so many things are ending.
Well, time to go put on my "visa gettin'" face. Today's quote is one we've seen before, but even more appropriate these days.
Peace,
Danny
PS I've added a 'Cast of Characters' to the Blog page so you'll know who the people are that I make reference to.
"One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time."
~André Gide
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Today, I'll be brief. (crowd roars with approval) We spent most of yesterday preparing for today. There was the bank account statement, police clearance, notary, photos, cashier checks and a zillion copies of everything. Then it had to be assembled. Now we're ready and today is the day. It's supposed to take about two days to get the visa, but once the materials are accepted, it's pretty much a done deal. (he said with hope)
I was impressed that so many of you responded to the 'easy' song. If you didn't quite figure it out, remember this:
"Time keeps on slippin', slippin', slippin', Into the future" Now, do you really need more clues?
It just occurred to me that we really don't have a way to spend our evenings with The Boys. Although bringing August to Norm's would be like a trip to 'plug in world' for him. All the gadgets and innovations would blow his little mind. Tempting, but not going to happen. Hmm, so many things are ending.
Well, time to go put on my "visa gettin'" face. Today's quote is one we've seen before, but even more appropriate these days.
Peace,
Danny
PS I've added a 'Cast of Characters' to the Blog page so you'll know who the people are that I make reference to.
"One does not discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time."
~André Gide
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Monday, August 6, 2007
Let Go
Hi,
This is the first day of Lisa's 'Retirement Life" and it seems to be growing on her. Friday she had to turn in all the physical attachments to her job: The Blackberry that was a constant source of communication and sometimes aggravation, the parking card and the keys. It was an interesting weekend just floating free, working on letting go.
The easy weekend song was "Help" by The Beatles. Where was my mail. You were all supposed to write me 'cause you knew the answer. Please tell me your dog ate your homework, or that your connection went down. (I'm trying to prime you for writing me in LOS)
Today's song may be easy for some. As usual, the title and the original artist. I heard a great cover, but that doesn't count.
"Feed the babies, Who don't have enough to eat, Shoe the children, Without shoes on their feet, House the people
Livin' in the street. Oh, Oh There's a solution. I wanna __ __ __ __..." Hint: Late 70s from a band with many hits. about a desire to do what man has always wanted to do.
Saturday we made the big, basic move from the condo to the house. Norm and Irena are very gracious hosts and have made us feel more than at home. Saturday I tried the shower chamber. It took a while to figure out all the controls and I got squirted with cold water from one of the side jets. Not a nice surprise. I finally got hot water from a shower wand and settled for that. I still want to go in and try all the tricks. Lisa figured out how to run a bath and turn on the mood lights and bubbles. We could get real comfortable here.
Saturday evening we were taken to dinner by some good friends from Lisa's former work. (likin' the way that sounds) We had a lovely time. Later I'll post a link that will blow your mind.
Sunday we did more follow-up packing and cleaning out at the condo, and then Jeff, Anna and The Boys came over for a swim. Another fun day in the sun. We capped off the day watching "Catch & Release" with our hosts on their giant HD TV with the surround and all. Now I'm officially spoiled.
We off to deal with the business of departure. This will be exciting, gratifying work for sure. Have a Momentous Monday.
Peace,
Danny
"When I let go of what I am,
I become what I might be."
Lao Tzu
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
This is the first day of Lisa's 'Retirement Life" and it seems to be growing on her. Friday she had to turn in all the physical attachments to her job: The Blackberry that was a constant source of communication and sometimes aggravation, the parking card and the keys. It was an interesting weekend just floating free, working on letting go.
The easy weekend song was "Help" by The Beatles. Where was my mail. You were all supposed to write me 'cause you knew the answer. Please tell me your dog ate your homework, or that your connection went down. (I'm trying to prime you for writing me in LOS)
Today's song may be easy for some. As usual, the title and the original artist. I heard a great cover, but that doesn't count.
"Feed the babies, Who don't have enough to eat, Shoe the children, Without shoes on their feet, House the people
Livin' in the street. Oh, Oh There's a solution. I wanna __ __ __ __..." Hint: Late 70s from a band with many hits. about a desire to do what man has always wanted to do.
Saturday we made the big, basic move from the condo to the house. Norm and Irena are very gracious hosts and have made us feel more than at home. Saturday I tried the shower chamber. It took a while to figure out all the controls and I got squirted with cold water from one of the side jets. Not a nice surprise. I finally got hot water from a shower wand and settled for that. I still want to go in and try all the tricks. Lisa figured out how to run a bath and turn on the mood lights and bubbles. We could get real comfortable here.
Saturday evening we were taken to dinner by some good friends from Lisa's former work. (likin' the way that sounds) We had a lovely time. Later I'll post a link that will blow your mind.
Sunday we did more follow-up packing and cleaning out at the condo, and then Jeff, Anna and The Boys came over for a swim. Another fun day in the sun. We capped off the day watching "Catch & Release" with our hosts on their giant HD TV with the surround and all. Now I'm officially spoiled.
We off to deal with the business of departure. This will be exciting, gratifying work for sure. Have a Momentous Monday.
Peace,
Danny
"When I let go of what I am,
I become what I might be."
Lao Tzu
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Friday, August 3, 2007
Friday Funnies
Hi,
Big news to tell you today. We will not have to spend our remaining days at the Brazilian motel. The plan was to leave the condo next Wednesday. Without taking you on a long trip, the contractor who's doing our little room at Jeff and Anna's heard about our situation and has offered us a room at his house. More about this in a minute.
I know you're frantic to know the song. It was "Blinded By The Light", as made famous by Manfred Mann and His Earth Band. It was written by Bruce Springsteen and some of you knew it from him. The elusive line was a reference to a 1932 Ford hotrod (deuce is a slang term for the number 2 often used in card games). So now you know.
Bonus points go to Lane and Frank for knowing the reference to 'Tryin' to make it real....' Lane sent this info:Gene McDaniel (the songs author) had been an established pop star, hitting in 1961 with ‘A Hundred Pounds of Clay’ and then again in 1962 with original version of ‘The Point of No Return’ (later redone by Georgie Fame). The assassination of Martin Luther King in 1968 spurred McDaniels to pack his bags and leave the US for Scandinavia. It also inspired him to pen ‘Compared to What’. He passed the song on to his pal Les McCann (with whom he had worked prior to signing with Liberty) and the rest - as they say ? is history. McCann (along with Eddie Harris) laid down a smoking (some would say definitive) version of ‘Compared to What’ at the 1968 Montreux Jazz Festival which was released the following year on the landmark LP “Swiss Movement”.
The easy one I promised you, might be too easy, but everybody needs to feel like a winner at some point. From '65:
"__ me if you can, I'm feeling down And I do appreciate you being 'round __ me get my feet back on the ground..."
Oh, way too easy. I can hear the complaints from the usual suspects. I'm expecting mail from all of you with the answer. Don't let me down.
On Friday's I usually tell you something about our Thursday evening with C-Bass. He didn't come over yesterday. Instead, I'm taking him to see The Simpsons Movie. Pray for me.
So, Norm (the contractor) has built his 'dream house' and we get to stay there. We got the tour last night. The house itself, is very impressive. Big rooms, high ceilings and beautiful wood. What blew our minds was 'our' bathroom. Not only is there lots of floor space, there is a star of the show. The shower enclosure is about eight feet wide (I'll have to measure) and has more features than our Lexus. There are about 12 jets (must count) that spray from every direction, piped in music, mood lights, steam, foot massage, and a jacuzzi tub that fills from a waterfall. Oh my. We may never leave that room. We can even plug our iPod into the system and listen to our choice of music.
Ok, it's time for the 'Funnies'. We continue with part 2 of the ads. Have a Wonderfilled WeekEnd.
Peace,
Danny
Badly Written Ads, part 2
Vacation Special: have your home exterminated.
If you think you've seen everything in Paris, visit the Pere
Lachasis Cemetery. It boasts such immortals as Moliere, Jean de la
Fontain, and Chopin.
Mt. Kilimanjaro, the breathtaking backdrop for the Serena Lodge.
Swim in the lovely pool while you drink it all in.
Get rid of aunts: Zap does the job in 24 hours.
Toaster: A gift that every member of the family appreciates.
Automatically burns toast.
Stock up and save. Limit: one.
We build bodies that last a lifetime.
For Rent: 6-room hated apartment.
Man, honest. Will take anything.
Wanted: chambermaid in rectory. Love in, $200 a month. References
required.
Man wanted to work in dynamite factory. Must be willing to travel.
UsedCars: Why go elsewhere to be cheated? Come here first!
Christmas tag-sale. Handmade gifts for the hard-to-find person.
Wanted: Hair-cutter. Excellent growth potential.
Wanted. Man to take care of cow that does not smoke or drink.
Our experienced Mom will care of your child. Fenced yard, meals,
and smacks included.
Our bikinis are exciting. They are simply the tops.
Auto Repair Service. Free pick-up and delivery. Try us once,
you'll never go anywhere again.
Illiterate? Write today for free help.
Girl wanted to assist magician in cutting-off-head illusion. Blue
Cross and salary.
Mixing bowl set designed to please a cook with round bottom for
efficient beating.
Semi-Annual after-Christmas Sale.
And now, the Superstore--unequaled in size, unmatched in variety,
unrivaled inconvenience.
We will oil your sewing machine and adjust tension in your home for
$1.00.
Last but not least, this one was sent to me last week by my dear friend Lois:
In my Von's market, they were fund-raising for a couple of weeks and they were having a raffle to help. The sign read:
"Buy Ticket for Raffle for Prostate Cancer"
I tried to explain it to a few people there, but nobody listened to me.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Big news to tell you today. We will not have to spend our remaining days at the Brazilian motel. The plan was to leave the condo next Wednesday. Without taking you on a long trip, the contractor who's doing our little room at Jeff and Anna's heard about our situation and has offered us a room at his house. More about this in a minute.
I know you're frantic to know the song. It was "Blinded By The Light", as made famous by Manfred Mann and His Earth Band. It was written by Bruce Springsteen and some of you knew it from him. The elusive line was a reference to a 1932 Ford hotrod (deuce is a slang term for the number 2 often used in card games). So now you know.
Bonus points go to Lane and Frank for knowing the reference to 'Tryin' to make it real....' Lane sent this info:Gene McDaniel (the songs author) had been an established pop star, hitting in 1961 with ‘A Hundred Pounds of Clay’ and then again in 1962 with original version of ‘The Point of No Return’ (later redone by Georgie Fame). The assassination of Martin Luther King in 1968 spurred McDaniels to pack his bags and leave the US for Scandinavia. It also inspired him to pen ‘Compared to What’. He passed the song on to his pal Les McCann (with whom he had worked prior to signing with Liberty) and the rest - as they say ? is history. McCann (along with Eddie Harris) laid down a smoking (some would say definitive) version of ‘Compared to What’ at the 1968 Montreux Jazz Festival which was released the following year on the landmark LP “Swiss Movement”.
The easy one I promised you, might be too easy, but everybody needs to feel like a winner at some point. From '65:
"__ me if you can, I'm feeling down And I do appreciate you being 'round __ me get my feet back on the ground..."
Oh, way too easy. I can hear the complaints from the usual suspects. I'm expecting mail from all of you with the answer. Don't let me down.
On Friday's I usually tell you something about our Thursday evening with C-Bass. He didn't come over yesterday. Instead, I'm taking him to see The Simpsons Movie. Pray for me.
So, Norm (the contractor) has built his 'dream house' and we get to stay there. We got the tour last night. The house itself, is very impressive. Big rooms, high ceilings and beautiful wood. What blew our minds was 'our' bathroom. Not only is there lots of floor space, there is a star of the show. The shower enclosure is about eight feet wide (I'll have to measure) and has more features than our Lexus. There are about 12 jets (must count) that spray from every direction, piped in music, mood lights, steam, foot massage, and a jacuzzi tub that fills from a waterfall. Oh my. We may never leave that room. We can even plug our iPod into the system and listen to our choice of music.
Ok, it's time for the 'Funnies'. We continue with part 2 of the ads. Have a Wonderfilled WeekEnd.
Peace,
Danny
Badly Written Ads, part 2
Vacation Special: have your home exterminated.
If you think you've seen everything in Paris, visit the Pere
Lachasis Cemetery. It boasts such immortals as Moliere, Jean de la
Fontain, and Chopin.
Mt. Kilimanjaro, the breathtaking backdrop for the Serena Lodge.
Swim in the lovely pool while you drink it all in.
Get rid of aunts: Zap does the job in 24 hours.
Toaster: A gift that every member of the family appreciates.
Automatically burns toast.
Stock up and save. Limit: one.
We build bodies that last a lifetime.
For Rent: 6-room hated apartment.
Man, honest. Will take anything.
Wanted: chambermaid in rectory. Love in, $200 a month. References
required.
Man wanted to work in dynamite factory. Must be willing to travel.
UsedCars: Why go elsewhere to be cheated? Come here first!
Christmas tag-sale. Handmade gifts for the hard-to-find person.
Wanted: Hair-cutter. Excellent growth potential.
Wanted. Man to take care of cow that does not smoke or drink.
Our experienced Mom will care of your child. Fenced yard, meals,
and smacks included.
Our bikinis are exciting. They are simply the tops.
Auto Repair Service. Free pick-up and delivery. Try us once,
you'll never go anywhere again.
Illiterate? Write today for free help.
Girl wanted to assist magician in cutting-off-head illusion. Blue
Cross and salary.
Mixing bowl set designed to please a cook with round bottom for
efficient beating.
Semi-Annual after-Christmas Sale.
And now, the Superstore--unequaled in size, unmatched in variety,
unrivaled inconvenience.
We will oil your sewing machine and adjust tension in your home for
$1.00.
Last but not least, this one was sent to me last week by my dear friend Lois:
In my Von's market, they were fund-raising for a couple of weeks and they were having a raffle to help. The sign read:
"Buy Ticket for Raffle for Prostate Cancer"
I tried to explain it to a few people there, but nobody listened to me.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Attitude
Hi,
What's this? Overcast skies? Cooler day maybe? Just what I need for running around town. And isn't it silly of me to trip on cooler days when I'm about to jump into a furnace? Yes. Yesterday's high will be the average low in Chiang Rai. Hmm, is this a cold snap?
I promise to give you an easy song for the weekend, even though Lane said this one was easy and Frank got it fast. What happened to the rest of you? I know, it's an odd one but you can do it. Here's the hook and that 'phrase':
"__ __ __ __ Revved up like a deuce Another runner in the night" (x3) Clue: Now that you know what that line is, the song should be looping in your head. It was written by the Boss and the reference is to a '32 Ford hot-rod. Oh, but he wasn't the artist. Initials M.M. Good luck.
The August Chronicles, part 2: During our strolling adventure through the grounds, we took him to pool number one, which he hadn't seen yet. He decided, like last week, to lead us back. Only thing was, we'd gone farther with more turns. He started a little game with himself. At every fork in the path, he'd consider both directions, knowing that some led to garages and others to condos. We all got a good laugh from that and he finally got us 'home'.
Yesterday August pulled out his Leggo Phone, ask his mom where his numbers were, and began making calls. I got one at about 11:30 while I was getting dressed after a session with Franco. I needed adjusting after all the moving. It was perfect timing, that he called when he did. A few minutes earlier and I couldn't have taken the call.
Tomorrow is Lisa's last day of work! The end of an era is upon us. It's been a great career, which she embraced with much enthusiasm, and now she must go to detox. (Ha) We'll be watching for the physical signs: reaching for the Blackberry to check emails, thinking of things to do that are not her job, dialing numbers, etc. I'm making light of it, but after 30 years, there's bound to be a part of one that tries to hang on. Hmm. Transitions.
Speaking of transitions, 28 days and counting, to the biggest transition we've faced in a long time. I thought buying the house and moving in was major (it was) but now the perspective changes and relativity has importance. Life is always changing. How it seems or feels is usually based on what it's changing from. Or, to quote a famous hook: 'Tryin' to make it real, compared to what..' (tell me who that was, for bonus Cool points).
I've babbled quite enough for today. Off to continue to continue. Have a Positive Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"There is a very little difference between people; it is called attitude; and it makes a really big difference.
The big difference is whether it's positive or negative."
~W. Clement Stone
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
What's this? Overcast skies? Cooler day maybe? Just what I need for running around town. And isn't it silly of me to trip on cooler days when I'm about to jump into a furnace? Yes. Yesterday's high will be the average low in Chiang Rai. Hmm, is this a cold snap?
I promise to give you an easy song for the weekend, even though Lane said this one was easy and Frank got it fast. What happened to the rest of you? I know, it's an odd one but you can do it. Here's the hook and that 'phrase':
"__ __ __ __ Revved up like a deuce Another runner in the night" (x3) Clue: Now that you know what that line is, the song should be looping in your head. It was written by the Boss and the reference is to a '32 Ford hot-rod. Oh, but he wasn't the artist. Initials M.M. Good luck.
The August Chronicles, part 2: During our strolling adventure through the grounds, we took him to pool number one, which he hadn't seen yet. He decided, like last week, to lead us back. Only thing was, we'd gone farther with more turns. He started a little game with himself. At every fork in the path, he'd consider both directions, knowing that some led to garages and others to condos. We all got a good laugh from that and he finally got us 'home'.
Yesterday August pulled out his Leggo Phone, ask his mom where his numbers were, and began making calls. I got one at about 11:30 while I was getting dressed after a session with Franco. I needed adjusting after all the moving. It was perfect timing, that he called when he did. A few minutes earlier and I couldn't have taken the call.
Tomorrow is Lisa's last day of work! The end of an era is upon us. It's been a great career, which she embraced with much enthusiasm, and now she must go to detox. (Ha) We'll be watching for the physical signs: reaching for the Blackberry to check emails, thinking of things to do that are not her job, dialing numbers, etc. I'm making light of it, but after 30 years, there's bound to be a part of one that tries to hang on. Hmm. Transitions.
Speaking of transitions, 28 days and counting, to the biggest transition we've faced in a long time. I thought buying the house and moving in was major (it was) but now the perspective changes and relativity has importance. Life is always changing. How it seems or feels is usually based on what it's changing from. Or, to quote a famous hook: 'Tryin' to make it real, compared to what..' (tell me who that was, for bonus Cool points).
I've babbled quite enough for today. Off to continue to continue. Have a Positive Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"There is a very little difference between people; it is called attitude; and it makes a really big difference.
The big difference is whether it's positive or negative."
~W. Clement Stone
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Happy
Hi,
Well, my trip to the Thai Consulate left me looking for a
ceiling to dance on. Everything is going fine with our paperwork.
There is a rather casual attitude, with regards some questions. When
I told the woman it was for a retirement visa, it was like 'oh, just
come on over'. Seriously, the little things are not worth the
sweat. See, already going through culture shock. (Ha)
That little song I threw at you on Monday didn't stir many
memories (apparently). It was "Over and Over" by Bobby Day. If you
think that one was a zinger, check out this next one. It's one that
we hum, sing the hook and hum:
"Madman drummers bummers, Indians in the summer, With a teenage
diplomat. In the dumps with the mumps, As the adolescent pumps, His
way into his hat...." Clue: this crazy lyric is from a song that was
a pretty big hit somewhere in the 70s. It contains a line that is
still a mystery to most listeners. I will reveal the line tomorrow.
Then you'll remember.
The August Chronicles: I picked him up from Science Camp a
little early, hoping to be back at the condo in time to let Lisa
through the gate. Nice plan. He wasn't ready to leave. He had to
show me how he had made a 'trash switch'. He used 'found objects' to
fashion a dimmer light switch. My job was to sit patiently while he
put it together, explaining the function of each piece of plastic.
More on this later.
We left school and headed for 'Loco' for our picnic dinner.
While in line, he had to analyze the path of wires and sound (that's
what he does) from the little mic/speaker in the driveway, to the
headset of the order taker. His little mind never stops. Once he
gets a concept, then his imagination dives head first, into possible
scenarios. Fascinating and tiring. We rendezvoused with Lisa at the
market (after a lot of explaining to August). They went in with the
card and I parked on the street. I walked onto the grounds and
arrived at the condo before them. That's because Mr. A has to press
all the buttons and use all the keys. He's getting quite good at it,
but it takes time.
We ate on the floor this week. We were going to watch part of a
movie, but he declared that most of the animated features we offered
were 'boring'. I know where he learned that word. Anyway, after
eating, we went for a long, detailed walk. More tomorrow.
It's time for a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"The happiest of people don't necessarily have the
best of everything, they just make the most of
everything that comes along their way."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
Well, my trip to the Thai Consulate left me looking for a
ceiling to dance on. Everything is going fine with our paperwork.
There is a rather casual attitude, with regards some questions. When
I told the woman it was for a retirement visa, it was like 'oh, just
come on over'. Seriously, the little things are not worth the
sweat. See, already going through culture shock. (Ha)
That little song I threw at you on Monday didn't stir many
memories (apparently). It was "Over and Over" by Bobby Day. If you
think that one was a zinger, check out this next one. It's one that
we hum, sing the hook and hum:
"Madman drummers bummers, Indians in the summer, With a teenage
diplomat. In the dumps with the mumps, As the adolescent pumps, His
way into his hat...." Clue: this crazy lyric is from a song that was
a pretty big hit somewhere in the 70s. It contains a line that is
still a mystery to most listeners. I will reveal the line tomorrow.
Then you'll remember.
The August Chronicles: I picked him up from Science Camp a
little early, hoping to be back at the condo in time to let Lisa
through the gate. Nice plan. He wasn't ready to leave. He had to
show me how he had made a 'trash switch'. He used 'found objects' to
fashion a dimmer light switch. My job was to sit patiently while he
put it together, explaining the function of each piece of plastic.
We left school and headed for 'Loco' for our picnic dinner.
While in line, he had to analyze the path of wires and sound (that's
what he does) from the little mic/speaker in the driveway, to the
headset of the order taker. His little mind never stops. Once he
gets a concept, then his imagination dives head first, into possible
scenarios. Fascinating and tiring. We rendezvoused with Lisa at the
market (after a lot of explaining to August). They went in with the
card and I parked on the street. I walked onto the grounds and
arrived at the condo before them. That's because Mr. A has to press
all the buttons and use all the keys. He's getting quite good at it,
but it takes time.
We ate on the floor this week. We were going to watch part of a
movie, but he declared that most of the animated features we offered
were 'boring'. I know where he learned that word. Anyway, after
eating, we went for a long, detailed walk. More tomorrow.
It's time for a Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"The happiest of people don't necessarily have the
best of everything, they just make the most of
everything that comes along their way."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
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