Hi,
Whoa, what a day we had. More adventure. It was time to make our first 90 day 'check-in' for our Visas. We were told that we could do it at the Chiang Rai PD. When we got there, they didn't know anything about it. They kept saying, 'You have to go to Mae Sai'. Now that you're wondering where this is going, hold on. Only three of you got the song. We've got to shake things up a bit. "I'd kinda like to be the President, so I can show you how your money's spent. __ __ __ __ __ (x 3) Hint: The group's name was the opposite of what they wanted.
After going around with the police, they called in a young woman from the 'Tourist Police' who spoke pretty good English. She didn't understand our Retirement Visa either. We wanted them to call Immigration in Chiang Mai. They left the room, came back and said 'Mae Sai'. OK, bye bye.
We took a Tuk-Tuk down to the family tractor store, looking for some kind of moral support and got it. Jen made a few calls and wished us luck. We walked around the corner to the bus station and found out the bus to Mae Sai leaves every 15 minutes and costs 33 Baht ($1.06). We got on the bus (not the cruiser that took us to Chiang Mai) and waited to depart. This was an older bus with narrow seats, no air, no water and no video screen. Just your basic bus, with a conductor who took her job seriously, with a casual twist. I never saw her smile, but she said 'thank you'. Anyway, once we hit the streets, we realized that this was not going to be an express. We stopped and picked up passengers, we stopped to buy a bag of oranges for the driver, and we let people off. At no time, did the front or back door ever close. There was a man sitting in the back who was some kind of door monitor. Every time we were about to take off, we'd hear his voice, 'aye', and the bus would start again. At one point, near the end, we had a full load, with people standing in the aisle as we rolled down the highway. We finally made it to Mae Sai, but the bus station is at the south end of town, so they piled all of us into a songtal (pick-up with a shell and two rows of seats). Like a shuttle, it took us to the border area, where all the action is. That trip cost 10 Baht or $.32.
Following directions, we walked to the border with Burma/Myranmar and went into the Immigration office. Their assumption, of course, was that we wanted to make what is called, a 'visa run'. This is required for those who wish to extend their stay without a lot of red tape. You leave the country, and then come back in, having your passport stamped with a new visa. Well, that wasn't our mission. We were sent down the road (1.5k) to the main office. This required a time out for coffee. At an odd little coffee shop connected to an odd little hotel, we found out that it was a bit of a walk and we should ride. No problem here.
Finally arriving in the right place, we had no wait, really friendly officers and the whole thing was a breeze. They gave us forms for our next 90 day check in so we could show them to the CR police. If they still don't get it, back to Mae Sai. Feeling light and elated, we strolled the street looking for the special black sesame treat we've grown to love. We went into the shopping district and felt transported into another world. We saw some interesting things, as in a gift but no treats. Took a few pics that you can see on Flickr. We decided that we didn't want to take the long way home, so we went to the big border hotel and asked about hiring a car. It could be done, so we did. We're very glad we did. We came home to hot soup from 'Boot's Kitchen' and all is well.
Have a Cool Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"We must know definitely and consistently that the universe is for us and not against us."
~Ernest Holmes
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Worry - Tuesday, November 27
Hi,
I'm glad you came back. I have stories to tell. As you may remember, it's now Sunday and we're going on an elephant adventure. This time we're going to ride on their backs. We decided to try a tour company that a friend of mine from Chiang Mai had recently used. (how about that, making reference to a friend from another city) The plan was to travel by boat, up the river. First we'd stop at The Monk's Cave Temple, and then proceed to Moo Ban Ruammit and the elephant camp.
We left the tour office at 9:30 a.m. and drove to the river. We could see evidence of the festivities the night before. There we were, the three of us and our guide, Ann, ready to start the day. We rode for about half an hour until we came upon the caves. This place is amazing. It's a natural cave that part of a temple complex. I'm still trying to find out how long it's been used this way. There was a monk giving a teaching to some visitors when we arrived. Ann told us that he lives in the cave. One side is open, facing the river so there is lots of light. There are also openings in the top and when it rains, it comes into the temple. It was a very quiet, serene place to be.
After another half hour, we arrived at our destination. When we rode in 2001, we approached the village from the road. It was really something, coming in from the river side, seeing these huge animals walking through the water, and clustered on the bank. The first thing we saw after getting off the boat, were several cages containing huge pythons. For a fee, you could have your picture taken with the python wrapped around you. No thank you, I don't do that! Kristy, on the other hand, does that. We have the pictures to prove it. Then we waited for a few minutes and got a chance to watch a little 'school'. They were training a couple of young ones. Finally, it was time to mount up.
We climbed a staircase to a platform where we leaned into the benches that would carry us through the village. Kristy and Ann rode on one and Lisa and I followed. Our driver's name was BG and he sat on the elephants head, not it's neck. Somehow, it works for the two of them. He talked and sang the whole time. Kristy's elephant had a brief spat with a dog and freaked us all out. The dog was walking down the path and the elephant clearly didn't like this dog. First he hissed, then he went down on one knee and slapped his trunk on the ground. The poor dog was losing it by this time and then we heard that loud trumpeting sound that elephants make, and the dog was gone in a blur. Whew.
Basically, we spent half an hour riding through the village, seeing everyday sights and hearing everyday sounds. We ended our tour by walking through a corn field and into the river. That was a little weird. Any time a large animal goes down hill, and you're on top, it's weird. (do I jump to the side or dive in?) Ok, so we're walking down the river, the water is up past the elephants stomach. This is feeling like an old movie. There's a pic of Kristy's ride 'snorkeling'. When we got back, we shopped, what else? The return trip was a bit faster, since we had told Ann we wanted to be back by a certain time. She managed to time things out pretty well and we'll use their services when you come to visit.
Oh, one last thing. Things have moved forward on the property I showed you, next to the policeman's house. We'll be buying it next week. Oh my.
I almost forgot....many correct answers to the song question. This song was 'story song' that joined the ranks of legends. "...And then smoke and gas belched out of that mine, everybody knew it was the end of the line for __ __, __ __ __" Clue: there were two adjectives in front of his name. Hmm.
Now it's time for Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Worrying often gives a small thing a big shadow."
~Swedish proverb
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
I'm glad you came back. I have stories to tell. As you may remember, it's now Sunday and we're going on an elephant adventure. This time we're going to ride on their backs. We decided to try a tour company that a friend of mine from Chiang Mai had recently used. (how about that, making reference to a friend from another city) The plan was to travel by boat, up the river. First we'd stop at The Monk's Cave Temple, and then proceed to Moo Ban Ruammit and the elephant camp.
We left the tour office at 9:30 a.m. and drove to the river. We could see evidence of the festivities the night before. There we were, the three of us and our guide, Ann, ready to start the day. We rode for about half an hour until we came upon the caves. This place is amazing. It's a natural cave that part of a temple complex. I'm still trying to find out how long it's been used this way. There was a monk giving a teaching to some visitors when we arrived. Ann told us that he lives in the cave. One side is open, facing the river so there is lots of light. There are also openings in the top and when it rains, it comes into the temple. It was a very quiet, serene place to be.
After another half hour, we arrived at our destination. When we rode in 2001, we approached the village from the road. It was really something, coming in from the river side, seeing these huge animals walking through the water, and clustered on the bank. The first thing we saw after getting off the boat, were several cages containing huge pythons. For a fee, you could have your picture taken with the python wrapped around you. No thank you, I don't do that! Kristy, on the other hand, does that. We have the pictures to prove it. Then we waited for a few minutes and got a chance to watch a little 'school'. They were training a couple of young ones. Finally, it was time to mount up.
We climbed a staircase to a platform where we leaned into the benches that would carry us through the village. Kristy and Ann rode on one and Lisa and I followed. Our driver's name was BG and he sat on the elephants head, not it's neck. Somehow, it works for the two of them. He talked and sang the whole time. Kristy's elephant had a brief spat with a dog and freaked us all out. The dog was walking down the path and the elephant clearly didn't like this dog. First he hissed, then he went down on one knee and slapped his trunk on the ground. The poor dog was losing it by this time and then we heard that loud trumpeting sound that elephants make, and the dog was gone in a blur. Whew.
Basically, we spent half an hour riding through the village, seeing everyday sights and hearing everyday sounds. We ended our tour by walking through a corn field and into the river. That was a little weird. Any time a large animal goes down hill, and you're on top, it's weird. (do I jump to the side or dive in?) Ok, so we're walking down the river, the water is up past the elephants stomach. This is feeling like an old movie. There's a pic of Kristy's ride 'snorkeling'. When we got back, we shopped, what else? The return trip was a bit faster, since we had told Ann we wanted to be back by a certain time. She managed to time things out pretty well and we'll use their services when you come to visit.
Oh, one last thing. Things have moved forward on the property I showed you, next to the policeman's house. We'll be buying it next week. Oh my.
I almost forgot....many correct answers to the song question. This song was 'story song' that joined the ranks of legends. "...And then smoke and gas belched out of that mine, everybody knew it was the end of the line for __ __, __ __ __" Clue: there were two adjectives in front of his name. Hmm.
Now it's time for Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Worrying often gives a small thing a big shadow."
~Swedish proverb
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
Human - Monday, November 26
Hi,
After a wild and crazy weekend, I'm back. I'll fill you in after we deal with this song thing. A few of the 'Oldie But Goodie' fans remembered 'The Glory Of Love', by The Five Keys. The song was written by Billy Hill and has been recorded by numerous artists through the years, but nobody had the 'talking part' like The Keys. The line I love is when he said to his 'ex': 'You poor, sad, worthless, foolish, fool'. Anyway, it's still one of my favorite songs from the 50s.
Today we'll try a new direction. "Ev'ry mornin' at the mine you could see him arrive. He stood six foot six and weighed two forty five. Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip, and everybody knew ya didn't give no lip to __ __." Hint: Obviously about a large person. The singer played it smart and left music for meat.
Friday night, we had our dinner with Kristy and 'The Family'. Another great time, with lots of laughter and fun around the table. After dinner we went back to the Night Bazaar for 'Kristy's Last Stand'. The whole thing shut down a little early because it started to sprinkle and the crowd was slim. We got what we went for and called it a night.
Saturday morning, we got brave and had Sing take us to the Waterfall park in his Tuk-Tuk. Long ride north of town. I've never been one who was big on hiking, but there we were. On a hiking trail. Beautiful country, clean air and an illusive waterfall. We found a small one early, near the base of the trail, so we decided to continue and find the big one. Well, we went up, and down and around and then we spotted this trail that went up, at about 45 degrees. We all voted to call it a day and start back. Good choice. We took lots of pictures and they're on the Flickr site. It was nice to be in nature like that. When you come to town, we'll take you there and set you in the right direction. (Ha)
Saturday evening we went to dinner with 'The Family', plus Boot and Roong, our neighbor who does hair and massage. We ate at The Garden Shrimp Restaurant and, as usual, got stuffed. From there it was off to the river for the festival of Loy Kratong. I had this image in my mind that the shoreline would be filled with people putting their Kratongs in the water and watching them float away. Oh, we didn't get to make ours, we bought them at the river. We were all in for a surprise. It's a giant carnival, with a ferris wheel, giant stage shows, booths of every description and food beyond belief. On the way, I noticed something in the sky, kind of glowing. Third said it was a balloon. Actually, it was more like a paper lantern. You will see these on the site, but it's a large paper tube (about 3 feet tall x 1 1/2 wide), open at one end, with a wire hoop to hold it open. In the center of the open end is a ring of some kind of burnable material that is lit. After the flame gets going, the hot air lifts the whole thing into the air (think hot air balloon). The sky was filled with these 'balloons' and it was a sight to behold. Meanwhile, all around us there were fireworks being set off, as the Kratongs floated down the river. What a night.
I'll save our Sunday adventure for tomorrow. To make sure you come back, I'll tell you that it had to do with elephants.
Have a Happy Week.
Peace,
Danny
PS Don't forget to 'Flickr'.
"Human is that moment when the universe becomes aware of itself."
~Teilhard de Chardin
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
http://www.gratidude.blogspot.com
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
After a wild and crazy weekend, I'm back. I'll fill you in after we deal with this song thing. A few of the 'Oldie But Goodie' fans remembered 'The Glory Of Love', by The Five Keys. The song was written by Billy Hill and has been recorded by numerous artists through the years, but nobody had the 'talking part' like The Keys. The line I love is when he said to his 'ex': 'You poor, sad, worthless, foolish, fool'. Anyway, it's still one of my favorite songs from the 50s.
Today we'll try a new direction. "Ev'ry mornin' at the mine you could see him arrive. He stood six foot six and weighed two forty five. Kinda broad at the shoulder and narrow at the hip, and everybody knew ya didn't give no lip to __ __." Hint: Obviously about a large person. The singer played it smart and left music for meat.
Friday night, we had our dinner with Kristy and 'The Family'. Another great time, with lots of laughter and fun around the table. After dinner we went back to the Night Bazaar for 'Kristy's Last Stand'. The whole thing shut down a little early because it started to sprinkle and the crowd was slim. We got what we went for and called it a night.
Saturday morning, we got brave and had Sing take us to the Waterfall park in his Tuk-Tuk. Long ride north of town. I've never been one who was big on hiking, but there we were. On a hiking trail. Beautiful country, clean air and an illusive waterfall. We found a small one early, near the base of the trail, so we decided to continue and find the big one. Well, we went up, and down and around and then we spotted this trail that went up, at about 45 degrees. We all voted to call it a day and start back. Good choice. We took lots of pictures and they're on the Flickr site. It was nice to be in nature like that. When you come to town, we'll take you there and set you in the right direction. (Ha)
Saturday evening we went to dinner with 'The Family', plus Boot and Roong, our neighbor who does hair and massage. We ate at The Garden Shrimp Restaurant and, as usual, got stuffed. From there it was off to the river for the festival of Loy Kratong. I had this image in my mind that the shoreline would be filled with people putting their Kratongs in the water and watching them float away. Oh, we didn't get to make ours, we bought them at the river. We were all in for a surprise. It's a giant carnival, with a ferris wheel, giant stage shows, booths of every description and food beyond belief. On the way, I noticed something in the sky, kind of glowing. Third said it was a balloon. Actually, it was more like a paper lantern. You will see these on the site, but it's a large paper tube (about 3 feet tall x 1 1/2 wide), open at one end, with a wire hoop to hold it open. In the center of the open end is a ring of some kind of burnable material that is lit. After the flame gets going, the hot air lifts the whole thing into the air (think hot air balloon). The sky was filled with these 'balloons' and it was a sight to behold. Meanwhile, all around us there were fireworks being set off, as the Kratongs floated down the river. What a night.
I'll save our Sunday adventure for tomorrow. To make sure you come back, I'll tell you that it had to do with elephants.
Have a Happy Week.
Peace,
Danny
PS Don't forget to 'Flickr'.
"Human is that moment when the universe becomes aware of itself."
~Teilhard de Chardin
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
http://www.gratidude.blogspot.com
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
Friday, November 23, 2007
Friday Funnies
Well, I'm a little disappointed. Ricardo was the only one of you to write with the correct answer to the song. It was
"Walk Away Rene" by The Left Bank. And the clues were so good. I just knew I'd get lots of mail on that one. Now:
"You've got to give a little (Wa-hoo), take a little (Wa-hoo) and always have those blues a little, that's the story of, that's __ __ __ __" Clue: You gotta be a rock not to figure this one out, even it you don't know the song. (Ha) My weekend gift. If you remember the talking part, send me the best line of the song.
Today we spent the afternoon walking around in the center of town. We started with lunch at Doi Chaang coffe and then walked down to Nut's mom's restaurant. She was there, and showed us her latest jewelry designs. Soi mak (very beautiful) and pang mak (very expensive). She's now making things for the King's daughter. Oh my. From there we went into the market district and walked up and down the aisles, taking in the sights and smells.
This evening we had a little dinner party with 'The Family'. Jen, Nu, Third, and Pui joined us for a gourmet dinner based around fish dishes. We talked, laughed and had one of the best times we've ever had. During the course of the evening, we discussed the land we want to buy. Third is helping us deal with the land office and the owner. We showed them our plans and they gave us feedback. We asked them where the Garden Shrimp Restaurant was located and after much discussion, Third offered to take us tomorrow night. (we were thinking Sunday) We told him about our plans to go to the Festival with Boot and he invited her to come too. Boot agreed and we have a plan. The big joke was, Third is going to be out of town. Making plans for others. He wants to be a politician. Yep.
We're going to make our own Kratongs tomorrow. Boot will bring the parts and we'll assemble them ourselves. They will be made of banana leaves, stalk and some part of us. Hair, fingernail plus a coin and a candle. Sometimes flowers are involved. It should be fun and we'll take pictures of the process. Jen explained that they send the bad down the river to make way for the good. Hmm, making way for good is always cool.
After dinner, Third dropped us off at the NB for Kristy's last stand. We were doing good and then it started to sprinkle and all the merchants started packing up. Our holiday shopping is almost done. Whew.
I forgot to mention that the other day, when we went up north, we stopped off at Anantara, a resort across the road from the Hall of Opium. I know the general manager and he'd told me to come by anytime. Well, wouldn't you know that the day we went, Mark was in Nepal (another story). His assistant gave us the OK to roam around and we did, a little. This place starts at $300 a night, and we didn't want to overstay our welcome. The grounds are incredible. As we were leaving, we were asked if we wanted to see the elephant camp. Of course we would. We piled into a converted little car and made our way up to the camp. The elephants are the ones I told you about, that have been adopted by the resort. They live there with their 'families' and take the guest for rides and the guests can learn how to 'drive'. We got a chance to give them sugar cane and visit with the cutest 2 month old. Go to the Flickr site for pics.
It's time for the 'Funnies'. Have a Fun WeekEnd.
Peace,
Danny
Critical Dog
Following a woman with a dog out of the movie theater, a man stopped
her and said, "I'm sorry to bother you, but I was amazed that your dog
seemed to get into the movie so much. He cried at the right spots,
moved nervously at the boring spots, and laughed like crazy at the
funny parts. Don't you find that unusual?" "Yes," she replied. "I find
it very unusual. Especially considering that he hated the book!"
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
http://www.gratidude.blogspot.com
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
"Walk Away Rene" by The Left Bank. And the clues were so good. I just knew I'd get lots of mail on that one. Now:
"You've got to give a little (Wa-hoo), take a little (Wa-hoo) and always have those blues a little, that's the story of, that's __ __ __ __" Clue: You gotta be a rock not to figure this one out, even it you don't know the song. (Ha) My weekend gift. If you remember the talking part, send me the best line of the song.
Today we spent the afternoon walking around in the center of town. We started with lunch at Doi Chaang coffe and then walked down to Nut's mom's restaurant. She was there, and showed us her latest jewelry designs. Soi mak (very beautiful) and pang mak (very expensive). She's now making things for the King's daughter. Oh my. From there we went into the market district and walked up and down the aisles, taking in the sights and smells.
This evening we had a little dinner party with 'The Family'. Jen, Nu, Third, and Pui joined us for a gourmet dinner based around fish dishes. We talked, laughed and had one of the best times we've ever had. During the course of the evening, we discussed the land we want to buy. Third is helping us deal with the land office and the owner. We showed them our plans and they gave us feedback. We asked them where the Garden Shrimp Restaurant was located and after much discussion, Third offered to take us tomorrow night. (we were thinking Sunday) We told him about our plans to go to the Festival with Boot and he invited her to come too. Boot agreed and we have a plan. The big joke was, Third is going to be out of town. Making plans for others. He wants to be a politician. Yep.
We're going to make our own Kratongs tomorrow. Boot will bring the parts and we'll assemble them ourselves. They will be made of banana leaves, stalk and some part of us. Hair, fingernail plus a coin and a candle. Sometimes flowers are involved. It should be fun and we'll take pictures of the process. Jen explained that they send the bad down the river to make way for the good. Hmm, making way for good is always cool.
After dinner, Third dropped us off at the NB for Kristy's last stand. We were doing good and then it started to sprinkle and all the merchants started packing up. Our holiday shopping is almost done. Whew.
I forgot to mention that the other day, when we went up north, we stopped off at Anantara, a resort across the road from the Hall of Opium. I know the general manager and he'd told me to come by anytime. Well, wouldn't you know that the day we went, Mark was in Nepal (another story). His assistant gave us the OK to roam around and we did, a little. This place starts at $300 a night, and we didn't want to overstay our welcome. The grounds are incredible. As we were leaving, we were asked if we wanted to see the elephant camp. Of course we would. We piled into a converted little car and made our way up to the camp. The elephants are the ones I told you about, that have been adopted by the resort. They live there with their 'families' and take the guest for rides and the guests can learn how to 'drive'. We got a chance to give them sugar cane and visit with the cutest 2 month old. Go to the Flickr site for pics.
It's time for the 'Funnies'. Have a Fun WeekEnd.
Peace,
Danny
Critical Dog
Following a woman with a dog out of the movie theater, a man stopped
her and said, "I'm sorry to bother you, but I was amazed that your dog
seemed to get into the movie so much. He cried at the right spots,
moved nervously at the boring spots, and laughed like crazy at the
funny parts. Don't you find that unusual?" "Yes," she replied. "I find
it very unusual. Especially considering that he hated the book!"
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
http://www.gratidude.blogspot.com
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Gratitude
Hi,
Happy Thanksgiving! Whether you celebrate it or not, give some thanks. I'll admit, there is a dubious origin to the whole thing, but the concept is sound.
So, nobody knows the song? Oh my, where were you in '66? If you were a teen or older, you should know this one.
"Just __ __ __, You won't see me follow you back home. Now as the rain beats down upon my weary eyes, for me it cries." Hint: Her name has four letters and begins with an 'R'. That ought to spark something. (Ha)
Today was 'Wat Day'. First we traveled 13 kilometers south of town to Wat Rong Khun. The sun was breaking through the clouds as we arrived. Perfect. Part of the beauty of the 'White Temple' is the fact that there are little mirrors cut to fit the shape of most of the ornamentation. I told you about the place back in January, but for those who don't remember or weren't reading this, it's a temple constructed by a very prominent Thai artist named Chalermchai Kositpipat. He wanted to build an artistic tribute to The Buddha, for all to enjoy. It's named after the town he's from, and it's where he built it. In short, he wanted to leave a legacy. The temple has been under construction for about five years and is half done. If you want to know more about it, see Mr. Google. There are many sites, and lots of photos. (I put some on Flickr)
As we were approaching the Wat, Supat asked if we'd like to meet Chalermchai. There was a chorus of 'Yes' and he said he'd find him if he was there, and make sure we met him. Soon after he parked the car, he called me on his cell and directed me to where he was. There beside him was the artist. We got a very cordial reception, posed for pictures and he was delighted to learn that we lived in Chiang Rai. Then it was off to the main building, which is like a small chapel, for lack of a better word. Photos are not allowed inside, so you'll just have to come on over and see for yourself. The mural inside is finally complete on the back wall. It's a very dramatic political statement about, among other things, the oil monster.
There is a gift shop with T-shirts and posters of his art. We wandered around, looked at the detail in the sculptured work and set out for part two.
On our way to Wat Doi Kow Kwai, on top of Buffalo Hill, Supat spotted some people harvesting rice. He really wanted us to have the experience, so he pulled over. Kristy and I headed for the field while Lisa photographed the adventure. Supat gave us visual instruction and we were handed sickles and we went to work. The rice had already been pushed over, so we grabbed a bit of the stalk with the tip of the sickle, pulled it up, took it in hand and sliced the bunch. Set it aside and do it again. Now we know.
After the 'harvest', we headed for the hill. If you recall, this is the home of 'Sii Hoo, Ha Dtah', a mythical creature with 'four ears and five eyes', who eats hot coals and leaves gold for you to clean up. (nice job) This time we took turns ringing the big gong. When hit hard enough, there is a thumping overtone that sets the dogs to howling and vibrates in you chest. There was a woman there who rubbed the center of the gong and it rang in a high overtone. We all tried it, but Lisa was the only one to succeed. There are some fun pics on Flickr, so check it out.
We had another great lunch and just hung out for a while. Then Kristy went across the street and got the full treatment from our friend Roong. Massage and hair wash and style. After dinner we went to the NB for you know what.
Now it's time to relax. Have a Wonderful Day.
Peace,
Danny
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
Happy Thanksgiving! Whether you celebrate it or not, give some thanks. I'll admit, there is a dubious origin to the whole thing, but the concept is sound.
So, nobody knows the song? Oh my, where were you in '66? If you were a teen or older, you should know this one.
"Just __ __ __, You won't see me follow you back home. Now as the rain beats down upon my weary eyes, for me it cries." Hint: Her name has four letters and begins with an 'R'. That ought to spark something. (Ha)
Today was 'Wat Day'. First we traveled 13 kilometers south of town to Wat Rong Khun. The sun was breaking through the clouds as we arrived. Perfect. Part of the beauty of the 'White Temple' is the fact that there are little mirrors cut to fit the shape of most of the ornamentation. I told you about the place back in January, but for those who don't remember or weren't reading this, it's a temple constructed by a very prominent Thai artist named Chalermchai Kositpipat. He wanted to build an artistic tribute to The Buddha, for all to enjoy. It's named after the town he's from, and it's where he built it. In short, he wanted to leave a legacy. The temple has been under construction for about five years and is half done. If you want to know more about it, see Mr. Google. There are many sites, and lots of photos. (I put some on Flickr)
As we were approaching the Wat, Supat asked if we'd like to meet Chalermchai. There was a chorus of 'Yes' and he said he'd find him if he was there, and make sure we met him. Soon after he parked the car, he called me on his cell and directed me to where he was. There beside him was the artist. We got a very cordial reception, posed for pictures and he was delighted to learn that we lived in Chiang Rai. Then it was off to the main building, which is like a small chapel, for lack of a better word. Photos are not allowed inside, so you'll just have to come on over and see for yourself. The mural inside is finally complete on the back wall. It's a very dramatic political statement about, among other things, the oil monster.
There is a gift shop with T-shirts and posters of his art. We wandered around, looked at the detail in the sculptured work and set out for part two.
On our way to Wat Doi Kow Kwai, on top of Buffalo Hill, Supat spotted some people harvesting rice. He really wanted us to have the experience, so he pulled over. Kristy and I headed for the field while Lisa photographed the adventure. Supat gave us visual instruction and we were handed sickles and we went to work. The rice had already been pushed over, so we grabbed a bit of the stalk with the tip of the sickle, pulled it up, took it in hand and sliced the bunch. Set it aside and do it again. Now we know.
After the 'harvest', we headed for the hill. If you recall, this is the home of 'Sii Hoo, Ha Dtah', a mythical creature with 'four ears and five eyes', who eats hot coals and leaves gold for you to clean up. (nice job) This time we took turns ringing the big gong. When hit hard enough, there is a thumping overtone that sets the dogs to howling and vibrates in you chest. There was a woman there who rubbed the center of the gong and it rang in a high overtone. We all tried it, but Lisa was the only one to succeed. There are some fun pics on Flickr, so check it out.
We had another great lunch and just hung out for a while. Then Kristy went across the street and got the full treatment from our friend Roong. Massage and hair wash and style. After dinner we went to the NB for you know what.
Now it's time to relax. Have a Wonderful Day.
Peace,
Danny
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."
~John Fitzgerald Kennedy
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Friendship
Hi,
First off, some of you may have been observant enough to notice that I sent yesterday's message from a different address. I still get mail at the gmail address, but I'm having trouble sending. The .mac address is my secondary address.
It seems that Bill Withers slipped by a bunch of you. "Lean On Me" was the song, back in 1972. Now you know.
"Just __ __ __ You won't see me follow you back home. The empty sidewalks on my block are not the same. You're not to blame" Clue: Title includes a girl's name, group named for a side of a river. Hmm.
Well, it rained last night and this morning. Not heavy, but by the time we were ready to go sight seeing, we needed to change our plans. We cancelled the trip to the hill and Wat Rong Khun and headed north for the Opium Museum. On the way, we passed the Museum of Buddha and I told Supat that we'd like to see it. We were the only ones to enter a large open building. All around the perimeter were bronze statues of mostly seated Buddhas, from every era of Thai history as well as surrounding countries. Supat and the guide explained what set each one apart. We now know that the expression on the face, the fullness of the face, etc., reflects the conditions of the people at the time. If there was peace and prosperity, Buddha's face was usually full and smiling. We spent almost an hour, getting acquainted with the finer points of Thai art and legend.
From there we continued toward our goal, but hunger struck. We were taken to Cafe de River (and resort) on the banks of the Mae Kong. What a trip. The place was empty, and our trusty friend knew that they had tables by the water. So, we went down a brief, but scary, flight of stairs and took a table looking out on the river, and Laos on the other side. We had a delicious lunch and were treated to a couple of guys fishing, just as we finished. When I say fishing, I mean 'Old School". They were casting nets on the water. I think I got a couple of good shots. The whole thing will be on the Flickr page.
We finally made it to the museum. We spent one and a half hours learning more than we wanted to know about the whole world of opium. It was like a crash world history lesson, an economics class, and a bold look at the devious nature of many governments. It was a beautifully executed presentation in a modern, three-story building. When you come to visit, you'll have to see it for yourself.
Then it was on to the border. We drove to Chiang Saen for picture taking at the Golden Triangle and shopping. (more pics) After that we headed for Mae Sai and the border with Myanmar/Burma. It's a mad little border city that was just preparing for the evening bazaar. We went to the top of Scorpion Hill and looked down on the city and the border. We wound our way through the market place and stopped for some treats we remembered from January. They look like tortillas, made from black sesame flour, heated on a grill, sugar added in the middle and then rolled up. Yum.
Tomorrow we'll go to Wat Rong Khun and then another major local artist. The afternoon will probably be spent cruising downtown.
Have a Wacky Wednesday.
"Friendships begin because, even without words, we understand how someone feels."
~Joan Walsh Anglund
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
First off, some of you may have been observant enough to notice that I sent yesterday's message from a different address. I still get mail at the gmail address, but I'm having trouble sending. The .mac address is my secondary address.
It seems that Bill Withers slipped by a bunch of you. "Lean On Me" was the song, back in 1972. Now you know.
"Just __ __ __ You won't see me follow you back home. The empty sidewalks on my block are not the same. You're not to blame" Clue: Title includes a girl's name, group named for a side of a river. Hmm.
Well, it rained last night and this morning. Not heavy, but by the time we were ready to go sight seeing, we needed to change our plans. We cancelled the trip to the hill and Wat Rong Khun and headed north for the Opium Museum. On the way, we passed the Museum of Buddha and I told Supat that we'd like to see it. We were the only ones to enter a large open building. All around the perimeter were bronze statues of mostly seated Buddhas, from every era of Thai history as well as surrounding countries. Supat and the guide explained what set each one apart. We now know that the expression on the face, the fullness of the face, etc., reflects the conditions of the people at the time. If there was peace and prosperity, Buddha's face was usually full and smiling. We spent almost an hour, getting acquainted with the finer points of Thai art and legend.
From there we continued toward our goal, but hunger struck. We were taken to Cafe de River (and resort) on the banks of the Mae Kong. What a trip. The place was empty, and our trusty friend knew that they had tables by the water. So, we went down a brief, but scary, flight of stairs and took a table looking out on the river, and Laos on the other side. We had a delicious lunch and were treated to a couple of guys fishing, just as we finished. When I say fishing, I mean 'Old School". They were casting nets on the water. I think I got a couple of good shots. The whole thing will be on the Flickr page.
We finally made it to the museum. We spent one and a half hours learning more than we wanted to know about the whole world of opium. It was like a crash world history lesson, an economics class, and a bold look at the devious nature of many governments. It was a beautifully executed presentation in a modern, three-story building. When you come to visit, you'll have to see it for yourself.
Then it was on to the border. We drove to Chiang Saen for picture taking at the Golden Triangle and shopping. (more pics) After that we headed for Mae Sai and the border with Myanmar/Burma. It's a mad little border city that was just preparing for the evening bazaar. We went to the top of Scorpion Hill and looked down on the city and the border. We wound our way through the market place and stopped for some treats we remembered from January. They look like tortillas, made from black sesame flour, heated on a grill, sugar added in the middle and then rolled up. Yum.
Tomorrow we'll go to Wat Rong Khun and then another major local artist. The afternoon will probably be spent cruising downtown.
Have a Wacky Wednesday.
"Friendships begin because, even without words, we understand how someone feels."
~Joan Walsh Anglund
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
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