Hi,
Today was more of the same weather wise. It was cloudy and cold with great expectations of rain. We went into town in the morning, watched tennis in the afternoon, and Lisa dined with fellow artists in the evening.
'Easy' came easy for a lot of you. Maybe this line from the last verse will ring a bell. The artist's name is not real.
"...when you ain't got nothing, you got nothing to lose, you're invisible, you got no secrets to conceal. How does it feel? To be on your own, with no direction home, like a complete unknown. Just __ __ __ __?" Hint: The song appears to be putting down a socialite.
First thing this morning Khun Lar delivered Lisa's artwork to the house. Because there is no glass in the frames, the pieces weren't very heavy, and it made the job of carrying them into the house pretty simple. The next step will be hanging as many as possible around the house so we can enjoy them before the Bangkok show.
Yesterday we didn't get to see the whole O.T.O.P. Expo, so we went to the fairgrounds. We started with the first aisle we hadn't seen and went up and down the length of the huge, temporary quonset hut. I got bold and actually sampled a treat that was offered. It was like a crispy peanut flavored snack and it was so good I bought three little packs. On another aisle a pair of casual pants with colorful flowers caught Lisa's eye. We saw many things that we'd never seen before, learned a few things, and bought some black rice. It isn't grown by most farmers, and is used to make a form of sticky rice. When we got home we asked Boot if she could make some and after reading the label she simply said: "Cannot do". Eventually we'll get to sample the black rice, but it probably won't be soon.
We had a nice lunch and rested while watching tennis from Florida. We had to go out again but dozing seemed in order. We had to take one of Lisa cast acrylic prints to the gallery so they could deliver it to the woman who bought it. Then we had some banking to do. We saw our friend Bobby, who is an assistant manager, and had a brief exchange about the earthquake. He had been studying for an exam and told us he was very frightened. This seems to be the response from most people here in Chiang Rai. A quake like the one we experienced has never happened here, from what we're told. There are sometimes small earthquakes that feel like what a Californian would call a minor aftershock. We saw some photos today from Burma, near the epicenter, and there was a lot of destruction of property and roadways. Many of the houses were not very well made and they just crumbled. We're feeling very fortunate.
This evening was the beginning of the "100 Artists for Thailand" project that Lisa is participating in at the Rimkok Hotel. The hotel is just down the road from us so it's very convenient. Tonight was a dinner for all the artists. I dropped her off and as we arrived we saw a local artist that we like. Later Lisa called to tell me that many of the artists had brought their wives, or girlfriends to the dinner. I got myself together and headed over the hotel. Just as I got there Lisa called to say she was ready to come home. We went out onto the back lawn where the dinner was held so I could say 'Hello' to people I knew, and meet some of the artists at Lisa's table. Khun Sompong, from 9 Art Gallery was helping Lisa communicate with some of the artists. Tomorrow they will begin doing what they do in a big meeting hall. The artists come from all over Thailand. Khun Songdej, who organized the event, has come up with a great project that not only brings artists together, but will also expose their work since the pieces produced this week will be donated to the new government building in Chiang Rai.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Somebody needs who you are becoming."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Monday, March 28, 2011
Who
Hi,
The weather in Chiang Rai is cold. The days are not too bad, but the nights are like winter time. The weekend kept looking like it was going to rain, but it didn't. We did some TV shopping, watched the Grand Prix, and got an unexpected phone call from America.
The 'Old School' song was "The Great Pretender" by The Platters. Only a few of you got that one. 'Easy Monday' will make you feel better: "Once upon a time you dressed so fine, you threw the bums a dime in you prime, didn't you? People'd call, say, 'Beware doll, you're bound to fall'. You thought they were all kiddin' you... How does it feel? With no direction home, like a complete unknown, just__ __ __ __?" Clue: A breakout hit by a 'poet' who is still going strong after all these years. This should be easy.
We got our first TV in Thailand when we lived in the rental house. It fit the room just right, but now that we've been living in a bigger room, the screen is a bit small so we decided to investigate getting a larger screen. Things have really changed in the three plus years since that first set. We went to Sinthanee to see what they had. It had just started drizzling when we arrived and as we got out of the car a young man came rushing over with a very large umbrella to escort us to the door of the store. We went in the wrong door, the motorbike showroom, and when we came out he was there to take us to the correct showroom. When we left he was right there with the umbrella. That's what I call service.
We did the usual Big C run, but planned on eating at home since the race was on at lunch time. We had a picnic in the guest room so we could watch the pre-race show. It was kind of fun eating in a different room. The race went on during our nap time (I have to speak to them about scheduling) and I think we may have dozed through a few turns. (Ha)
In the afternoon the phone rang and I didn't recognize the number. The voice on the other end said it was 'Joe' from Emerald. I knew in a flash who it was. Emerald Thai is one of our favorite restaurants in Los Angeles and Joe was calling for Nid, the owner. Nid got on the phone and was concerned about us since he'd heard about the earthquake. It was very touching that they would call. Nid hasn't been back to Thailand in 25 years and is a dear friend.
This morning we were supposed to take delivery of all of Lisa's artwork from the exhibit. The framer had to do some corrections on the frames and they were all finished. We called and asked them to come tomorrow since it looked like rain. That gave us time to go over to the O.T.O.P. (One Tambone One Product) Expo across the river. It was an incredible array of goods representing different districts in the Province. We saw beautiful fabrics, leather work, and jewelry. There were some very creative variations on traditional Thai clothing also. We'll be going back since we didn't get a chance to see it all. In the evening it's like a carnival, with a ferris wheel, and tons of people.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
The weather in Chiang Rai is cold. The days are not too bad, but the nights are like winter time. The weekend kept looking like it was going to rain, but it didn't. We did some TV shopping, watched the Grand Prix, and got an unexpected phone call from America.
The 'Old School' song was "The Great Pretender" by The Platters. Only a few of you got that one. 'Easy Monday' will make you feel better: "Once upon a time you dressed so fine, you threw the bums a dime in you prime, didn't you? People'd call, say, 'Beware doll, you're bound to fall'. You thought they were all kiddin' you... How does it feel? With no direction home, like a complete unknown, just__ __ __ __?" Clue: A breakout hit by a 'poet' who is still going strong after all these years. This should be easy.
We got our first TV in Thailand when we lived in the rental house. It fit the room just right, but now that we've been living in a bigger room, the screen is a bit small so we decided to investigate getting a larger screen. Things have really changed in the three plus years since that first set. We went to Sinthanee to see what they had. It had just started drizzling when we arrived and as we got out of the car a young man came rushing over with a very large umbrella to escort us to the door of the store. We went in the wrong door, the motorbike showroom, and when we came out he was there to take us to the correct showroom. When we left he was right there with the umbrella. That's what I call service.
We did the usual Big C run, but planned on eating at home since the race was on at lunch time. We had a picnic in the guest room so we could watch the pre-race show. It was kind of fun eating in a different room. The race went on during our nap time (I have to speak to them about scheduling) and I think we may have dozed through a few turns. (Ha)
In the afternoon the phone rang and I didn't recognize the number. The voice on the other end said it was 'Joe' from Emerald. I knew in a flash who it was. Emerald Thai is one of our favorite restaurants in Los Angeles and Joe was calling for Nid, the owner. Nid got on the phone and was concerned about us since he'd heard about the earthquake. It was very touching that they would call. Nid hasn't been back to Thailand in 25 years and is a dear friend.
This morning we were supposed to take delivery of all of Lisa's artwork from the exhibit. The framer had to do some corrections on the frames and they were all finished. We called and asked them to come tomorrow since it looked like rain. That gave us time to go over to the O.T.O.P. (One Tambone One Product) Expo across the river. It was an incredible array of goods representing different districts in the Province. We saw beautiful fabrics, leather work, and jewelry. There were some very creative variations on traditional Thai clothing also. We'll be going back since we didn't get a chance to see it all. In the evening it's like a carnival, with a ferris wheel, and tons of people.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"It's not who you are that holds you back, it's who you think you're not."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Friday, March 25, 2011
Friday Funnies
Hi,
It's been a little over 24 hours since the big earthquake that rocked Thailand. We're OK, and things are getting back to normal. We've had some aftershocks, with some that felt like earthquakes. We spent the day at home, just hanging out, trying to find out more about what happened in different areas. All of our friends are OK, though some were a little freaked out since it was their first quake. It was pretty intense for about one minute. Those of you in California know what I'm talking about. Keep in mind that there is a difference between Chiang Rai the city, and Chiang Rai the province. Here in the city there have been no fatalities, but there was some cracking of walls and some spires toppled at a few temples. The news sometimes gets things mixed up.
The 'Summer of Love' song was "(Take Another Little) Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin & Big Brother and The Holding Company. Congrats to all who knew it. Now, once again, it's time for 'Old School Friday' and this is classic:
"Oh-oh, yes, I'm __ __ __, pretending that I'm doing well. My need is such I pretend too much, I'm lonely but no one can tell..." Hint: I've made it easy showing you the first verse. The singer is playing a role, or sorts. And he's good at it. The group was named after what records used to be called.
This evening we went to a going away party for our friend Rachel, the Director of the Sold Project, who has been managing the project for a year. All of the kids from the center made lunch and brought it to her today. Tomorrow night they all plan to go to the airport to see her off. A Flickr site is being set up with photos taken by the kids. I'll let you know about it when I get the link.
Not much else happening except the Australian F1 Grand Prix on Sunday, and Lisa will be participating in a project called "100 Thai Artists" next week. They will meet at the Rimkok Resort, which is just down the road from our house. The first event will be a dinner, and the next two days they will create works to be donated to the new government building not far from us. Oh yes, on Wednesday there will be the opening of Central Plaza, the giant mall that will make Chiang Rai the shopping mecca of the north. Hmm.
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Enjoy the 'Funnies'.
Peace,
Danny
FUNNY ENGLISH NOTICES AROUND THE WORLD! (Part 1)
Here are some signs and notices written in English that were
discovered throughout the world. You have to give the writers an
'E' for Effort. We hope you enjoy them.
In a Tokyo Hotel:
Is forbidden to steal hotel towels please. If you are not a
person to do such thing is please not to read notis.
In a Bucharest hotel lobby:
The lift is being fixed for the next day. During that time we
regret that you will be unbearable.
In a Leipzig elevator:
Do not enter the lift backwards, and only when lit up.
In a Belgrade hotel elevator:
To move the cabin, push button for wishing floor. If the cabin
should enter more persons, each one should press a number of
wishing floor. Driving is then going alphabetically by
national order.
In a Paris hotel elevator:
Please leave your values at the front desk.
In a hotel in Athens:
Visitors are expected to complain at the office between the
hours of 9 and 11 A.M. daily.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
It's been a little over 24 hours since the big earthquake that rocked Thailand. We're OK, and things are getting back to normal. We've had some aftershocks, with some that felt like earthquakes. We spent the day at home, just hanging out, trying to find out more about what happened in different areas. All of our friends are OK, though some were a little freaked out since it was their first quake. It was pretty intense for about one minute. Those of you in California know what I'm talking about. Keep in mind that there is a difference between Chiang Rai the city, and Chiang Rai the province. Here in the city there have been no fatalities, but there was some cracking of walls and some spires toppled at a few temples. The news sometimes gets things mixed up.
The 'Summer of Love' song was "(Take Another Little) Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin & Big Brother and The Holding Company. Congrats to all who knew it. Now, once again, it's time for 'Old School Friday' and this is classic:
"Oh-oh, yes, I'm __ __ __, pretending that I'm doing well. My need is such I pretend too much, I'm lonely but no one can tell..." Hint: I've made it easy showing you the first verse. The singer is playing a role, or sorts. And he's good at it. The group was named after what records used to be called.
This evening we went to a going away party for our friend Rachel, the Director of the Sold Project, who has been managing the project for a year. All of the kids from the center made lunch and brought it to her today. Tomorrow night they all plan to go to the airport to see her off. A Flickr site is being set up with photos taken by the kids. I'll let you know about it when I get the link.
Not much else happening except the Australian F1 Grand Prix on Sunday, and Lisa will be participating in a project called "100 Thai Artists" next week. They will meet at the Rimkok Resort, which is just down the road from our house. The first event will be a dinner, and the next two days they will create works to be donated to the new government building not far from us. Oh yes, on Wednesday there will be the opening of Central Plaza, the giant mall that will make Chiang Rai the shopping mecca of the north. Hmm.
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. Enjoy the 'Funnies'.
Peace,
Danny
FUNNY ENGLISH NOTICES AROUND THE WORLD! (Part 1)
Here are some signs and notices written in English that were
discovered throughout the world. You have to give the writers an
'E' for Effort. We hope you enjoy them.
In a Tokyo Hotel:
Is forbidden to steal hotel towels please. If you are not a
person to do such thing is please not to read notis.
In a Bucharest hotel lobby:
The lift is being fixed for the next day. During that time we
regret that you will be unbearable.
In a Leipzig elevator:
Do not enter the lift backwards, and only when lit up.
In a Belgrade hotel elevator:
To move the cabin, push button for wishing floor. If the cabin
should enter more persons, each one should press a number of
wishing floor. Driving is then going alphabetically by
national order.
In a Paris hotel elevator:
Please leave your values at the front desk.
In a hotel in Athens:
Visitors are expected to complain at the office between the
hours of 9 and 11 A.M. daily.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Ready
Hi,
After a day of driving, getting lost, finding our way, and smiling a lot, we're back in Chiang Rai. We found the elephants, and I got the passport. I guess that's all that really mattered.
It looks like a bunch of you really remember the 'Summer of Love', and this song by a whisky drinking lead singer.
"You're out on the streets looking good, and baby deep down in your heart I guess you know that it ain't right. Never (x5) hear me when I cry at night, babe I cry all the time... But when you hold me in your arms, I'll sing it once again. I'll say come on, come on, come on, come on and take it! (__ __ __) __ __ __ __... you know you got it, child, if it makes you feel good." Clue: The band name was like a 'business'. Hmm.
We got a later start to the day than planned, so we had breakfast in the hotel. It was quite an experience. The whole place is very modern, almost what one might call 'Euro Chic'. The dining room servers were very attentive and we had a nicer breakfast than if we'd eaten at the diner we were going to go to. After checking out we set out to find the Maesa Elephant Camp. We got lost partly because the map was not oriented to north and south. We finally got on the right road and drove to the turn-off that led us into the mountains. The area was full of 'adventure' spots that offered everything from ATV excursions, to bungie jumping, monkey camps, and horse riding facilities.
The elephant camp is a beautiful place with a big stream flowing over rocks, and elephants everywhere we looked. We were too late for the show, but just walked around looking at paintings by the elephants on our way to the nursery. There is a one year old, and a three month old that were too cute for words. There were two fairly young ones who were taking pictures with some visitors. They were very well trained and rather clever. When someone sat on their knee, they would either set their trunks on the guests shoulder or wrap them up. If you held out money they would come forward and take it from you. Lisa sat with the elephants and one of them put a hat on her head. The whole thing was well worth the extra driving.
When we got back to town it was still too early to go to the Consulate so we decided to have lunch. Our friend Sutheera had told us about a place we just had to check out. It was called "The Good View" and it was right on the Mae Ping River. It was empty when we arrived so we got a table looking out on the river. Lunch was good and it was very relaxing.
Going to the Consulate is always interesting, because they go through whatever bag you bring with you. They take everything out, check it and then put some things back and keep others. We still don't know why they keep things like lipstick, car keys, and mints, but let you take the rest. Curious. Anyway, I got my new passport along with the old one, with holes punched in it. Now we have to go to Mae Sai and have things like my visa and the pages with certain stamps put into the new one. This is sure to be another adventure.
Tomorrow evening we'll be attending a going away party for our friend Rachel. I'm getting excited about the start of the new season of Formula One, so hang on to your seats. (Ha)
Have a Thrilling Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"Everything you need or want has a way of showing
up as soon as you're ready for it."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
After a day of driving, getting lost, finding our way, and smiling a lot, we're back in Chiang Rai. We found the elephants, and I got the passport. I guess that's all that really mattered.
It looks like a bunch of you really remember the 'Summer of Love', and this song by a whisky drinking lead singer.
"You're out on the streets looking good, and baby deep down in your heart I guess you know that it ain't right. Never (x5) hear me when I cry at night, babe I cry all the time... But when you hold me in your arms, I'll sing it once again. I'll say come on, come on, come on, come on and take it! (__ __ __) __ __ __ __... you know you got it, child, if it makes you feel good." Clue: The band name was like a 'business'. Hmm.
We got a later start to the day than planned, so we had breakfast in the hotel. It was quite an experience. The whole place is very modern, almost what one might call 'Euro Chic'. The dining room servers were very attentive and we had a nicer breakfast than if we'd eaten at the diner we were going to go to. After checking out we set out to find the Maesa Elephant Camp. We got lost partly because the map was not oriented to north and south. We finally got on the right road and drove to the turn-off that led us into the mountains. The area was full of 'adventure' spots that offered everything from ATV excursions, to bungie jumping, monkey camps, and horse riding facilities.
The elephant camp is a beautiful place with a big stream flowing over rocks, and elephants everywhere we looked. We were too late for the show, but just walked around looking at paintings by the elephants on our way to the nursery. There is a one year old, and a three month old that were too cute for words. There were two fairly young ones who were taking pictures with some visitors. They were very well trained and rather clever. When someone sat on their knee, they would either set their trunks on the guests shoulder or wrap them up. If you held out money they would come forward and take it from you. Lisa sat with the elephants and one of them put a hat on her head. The whole thing was well worth the extra driving.
When we got back to town it was still too early to go to the Consulate so we decided to have lunch. Our friend Sutheera had told us about a place we just had to check out. It was called "The Good View" and it was right on the Mae Ping River. It was empty when we arrived so we got a table looking out on the river. Lunch was good and it was very relaxing.
Going to the Consulate is always interesting, because they go through whatever bag you bring with you. They take everything out, check it and then put some things back and keep others. We still don't know why they keep things like lipstick, car keys, and mints, but let you take the rest. Curious. Anyway, I got my new passport along with the old one, with holes punched in it. Now we have to go to Mae Sai and have things like my visa and the pages with certain stamps put into the new one. This is sure to be another adventure.
Tomorrow evening we'll be attending a going away party for our friend Rachel. I'm getting excited about the start of the new season of Formula One, so hang on to your seats. (Ha)
Have a Thrilling Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"Everything you need or want has a way of showing
up as soon as you're ready for it."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Voyage
Hi,
Today was a good day. We're in the city of Chiang Mai, and staying at the nicest hotel we've been in yet. We had lunch in a garden, met with friends, and dabbled at the Night Bazaar.
The 'Easy Monday' song was "Rain" by The Beatles. Yeah, you knew that from the weather reference. It's time to go back to the 'Summer of Love' for a dramatic tune by a young woman and a band that rocked Monterey.
"Didn't I make you feel like you were the only man, yeah? Didn't I give you nearly everything that a woman possibly can? Honey, you know I did. And each time I tell myself that I, well I think I've had enough, but I'm gonna show you baby, that a woman can be tough. I want you to come on, come on, come on, come on and take it, (__ __ __) __ __ __ __ (repeat several times)...." Clue: She's telling him she's willing to take whatever, and he can take something as well.
Our trip down the highway to Chiang Mai was the usual twisty, turny drive through the mountains and valleys. We stopped at our usual coffee spot at the midway point, and made good time. When we arrived in town I called my friend Mark and we made plans for lunch. He met us at our hotel, The Dusit D2, and we walked to what looked like a ceramics shop. In the rear was a restaurant that had a large garden area. We sat among the trees at a little table and had lunch and some great conversation. It's some place we'll probably try again.
After lunch the walk back to the hotel in the heat was enough to signal 'nap time'. Later we went to the local Starbucks for coffee and then decided on dinner at a place close by. There were other choices, but getting around was not something I was looking forward to, so we opted for easy. By the time we finished dinner most of the vendors were going strong on the street. It was odd to be at a Night Bazaar while the sun was still shining. In Chiang Rai it's usually dark when they set up.
Lisa spent the evening with our friend Natty, who is living in Chiang Mai, and I met with some friends of mine. Tomorrow morning we'll follow the map directions and go to the Maesa Elephant Camp to see the show and watch the elephants paint. This should be exciting. From there we'll go to the Consulate and get my new passport and then return to Chiang Rai. Whew. The adventure continues.
Get ready for Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"The voyage of discovery lies not in seeking new vistas but in
having new eyes."
~Anonymous
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today was a good day. We're in the city of Chiang Mai, and staying at the nicest hotel we've been in yet. We had lunch in a garden, met with friends, and dabbled at the Night Bazaar.
The 'Easy Monday' song was "Rain" by The Beatles. Yeah, you knew that from the weather reference. It's time to go back to the 'Summer of Love' for a dramatic tune by a young woman and a band that rocked Monterey.
"Didn't I make you feel like you were the only man, yeah? Didn't I give you nearly everything that a woman possibly can? Honey, you know I did. And each time I tell myself that I, well I think I've had enough, but I'm gonna show you baby, that a woman can be tough. I want you to come on, come on, come on, come on and take it, (__ __ __) __ __ __ __ (repeat several times)...." Clue: She's telling him she's willing to take whatever, and he can take something as well.
Our trip down the highway to Chiang Mai was the usual twisty, turny drive through the mountains and valleys. We stopped at our usual coffee spot at the midway point, and made good time. When we arrived in town I called my friend Mark and we made plans for lunch. He met us at our hotel, The Dusit D2, and we walked to what looked like a ceramics shop. In the rear was a restaurant that had a large garden area. We sat among the trees at a little table and had lunch and some great conversation. It's some place we'll probably try again.
After lunch the walk back to the hotel in the heat was enough to signal 'nap time'. Later we went to the local Starbucks for coffee and then decided on dinner at a place close by. There were other choices, but getting around was not something I was looking forward to, so we opted for easy. By the time we finished dinner most of the vendors were going strong on the street. It was odd to be at a Night Bazaar while the sun was still shining. In Chiang Rai it's usually dark when they set up.
Lisa spent the evening with our friend Natty, who is living in Chiang Mai, and I met with some friends of mine. Tomorrow morning we'll follow the map directions and go to the Maesa Elephant Camp to see the show and watch the elephants paint. This should be exciting. From there we'll go to the Consulate and get my new passport and then return to Chiang Rai. Whew. The adventure continues.
Get ready for Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"The voyage of discovery lies not in seeking new vistas but in
having new eyes."
~Anonymous
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Key
Hi,
It's that time of year when thin cotton, shorts, and sandals are the order of the day. Chiang Rai is in the hot season.
'Easy Monday' was easy for some, and puzzling for others. Today may clear up some of the cloudiness. (Ha)
"When the sun shines, they slip into the shade, and sip their lemonade. When the sun shines, when the sun shines. __, I don't mind. Shine, the weather's fine." Clue: Did I mention that it's by those four lads from Liverpool?
Today I watered the south 40, and Lisa had a video conversation with our friend Lisa, who lives in Nevada. Lisa and Lisa talked for a long time, we saw their new litter of kittens, their dogs, and she got to see our dogs. Lots of animal stories were exchanged and the whole thing was pretty cool.
Boot had to go see her doctor today so Lisa cooked a delicious lunch. After our nap we went to Doi Chaang for coffee and a carwash. All of the people at the places we went when Blue was in town all wanted to know where he was. The bakery, the carwash, and the greeter at Sawasdee, all wondered where he was. I guess we became the three musketeers. And maybe it means that he's destined to return.
Tomorrow morning we drive down to Chiang Mai for an overnight adventure. The main purpose is to pick up my new passport. They only give out new passports on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1:30 and 3:30pm. Don't ask me why, I just follow the rules. We'll meet our friends Mark and Letiga for lunch, roam around Chiang Mai a bit, and do the Night Bazaar in the evening. Thursday morning we're going to try and find the Maesa Elephant Camp. This is the place where the elephants learn to paint. This trip we're trying a different hotel. The WiFi is supposed to be complimentary in all rooms. They don't realize that I'm testing to see if this is real. It will surely be better than the last time.
In the meantime, Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
It's that time of year when thin cotton, shorts, and sandals are the order of the day. Chiang Rai is in the hot season.
'Easy Monday' was easy for some, and puzzling for others. Today may clear up some of the cloudiness. (Ha)
"When the sun shines, they slip into the shade, and sip their lemonade. When the sun shines, when the sun shines. __, I don't mind. Shine, the weather's fine." Clue: Did I mention that it's by those four lads from Liverpool?
Today I watered the south 40, and Lisa had a video conversation with our friend Lisa, who lives in Nevada. Lisa and Lisa talked for a long time, we saw their new litter of kittens, their dogs, and she got to see our dogs. Lots of animal stories were exchanged and the whole thing was pretty cool.
Boot had to go see her doctor today so Lisa cooked a delicious lunch. After our nap we went to Doi Chaang for coffee and a carwash. All of the people at the places we went when Blue was in town all wanted to know where he was. The bakery, the carwash, and the greeter at Sawasdee, all wondered where he was. I guess we became the three musketeers. And maybe it means that he's destined to return.
Tomorrow morning we drive down to Chiang Mai for an overnight adventure. The main purpose is to pick up my new passport. They only give out new passports on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 1:30 and 3:30pm. Don't ask me why, I just follow the rules. We'll meet our friends Mark and Letiga for lunch, roam around Chiang Mai a bit, and do the Night Bazaar in the evening. Thursday morning we're going to try and find the Maesa Elephant Camp. This is the place where the elephants learn to paint. This trip we're trying a different hotel. The WiFi is supposed to be complimentary in all rooms. They don't realize that I'm testing to see if this is real. It will surely be better than the last time.
In the meantime, Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everyone."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Monday, March 21, 2011
Trust
Hi,
We had a warm, sunny weekend here in Chiang Rai. Actually, it was hot. The big adventure was a road trip on Saturday evening to the opening of an art exhibition. Sunday we lunched with some new friends.
Many of you got the 'Old School' song. It was "Stormy Weather", first sung by Ethel Waters and sung by many artists through the years. Now let's get busy with 'Easy Monday'. This song should be easy:
"If the __ comes they run and hide their heads, they might as well be dead, if the __ comes, if the __ comes."
Hint: It's one word that everyone in SoCal can relate to about now. Yes, it's another weather song.
There is a Thai artist named Songdej Thipthong who has had quite a career in the art world. He invited us to the opening of his new exhibit, which is a permanent installation in his village near the town of Mae Chan. We rode north with Khun Jaffee and were totally blown away when we arrived. We had expected to see most of the local artists, and some of the people we usually see at openings. It turns out this was a village event. It looked like at least 2 or 3 hundred people were gathered in the big front yard. There was traditional Lana food everywhere we looked. As we made our way toward the back of the property, we saw a new building that was the gallery. It was a rather modern looking house but the doors were closed. In the courtyard in front of the house the principle guests were seated and they were just beginning the ceremony. Khun Tawan Duchanee, one of Thailand's most revered artists, was the presenter. He read a long poem he had written for Songdej. Right before that there were young girls doing a traditional dance in full costume. After the poem, a large blank canvas was set up and Tawan painted one of his signature Falcons, making massive, dramatic brush strokes. When he was done they opened the large accordion doors to the house and a big cheer went up.
Inside, there was a high ceiling and the walls were covered with mostly large paintings by Songdej. The crowd pressed forward and eventually we got inside. The work was all in acrylic and the detail was amazing. At the far end of the main room there was a unique staircase that consisted of wooden steps that stuck out from the wall. There was a bamboo handrail on the wall and nothing else. We carefully climbed the stairs to see the small bedroom that was finished in raw concrete and bamboo. I'll be posting some photos later this week. We found out that the attendees were the entire village, and also two bus loads of students from Bangkok who were attending a workshop at Tawan's compound (The Black House). It was the party of the year. There was also live music and we had a wonderful time.
Sunday we met with our friend Rachel for lunch. She brought along two young people who were visiting from the States and doing a photo project with the kids from The Sold Project. They brought a bunch of cameras on their trip and each of the children will be given one to take pictures of whatever they want. The end result should be very interesting.
Down by the river they've started constructing bamboo shelters with thatch roofs in preparation for the festivities that will take place next month during the Songkran Festival. Time to break out the flower shirts.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"As soon as you trust yourself, you will know how to live."
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
We had a warm, sunny weekend here in Chiang Rai. Actually, it was hot. The big adventure was a road trip on Saturday evening to the opening of an art exhibition. Sunday we lunched with some new friends.
Many of you got the 'Old School' song. It was "Stormy Weather", first sung by Ethel Waters and sung by many artists through the years. Now let's get busy with 'Easy Monday'. This song should be easy:
"If the __ comes they run and hide their heads, they might as well be dead, if the __ comes, if the __ comes."
Hint: It's one word that everyone in SoCal can relate to about now. Yes, it's another weather song.
There is a Thai artist named Songdej Thipthong who has had quite a career in the art world. He invited us to the opening of his new exhibit, which is a permanent installation in his village near the town of Mae Chan. We rode north with Khun Jaffee and were totally blown away when we arrived. We had expected to see most of the local artists, and some of the people we usually see at openings. It turns out this was a village event. It looked like at least 2 or 3 hundred people were gathered in the big front yard. There was traditional Lana food everywhere we looked. As we made our way toward the back of the property, we saw a new building that was the gallery. It was a rather modern looking house but the doors were closed. In the courtyard in front of the house the principle guests were seated and they were just beginning the ceremony. Khun Tawan Duchanee, one of Thailand's most revered artists, was the presenter. He read a long poem he had written for Songdej. Right before that there were young girls doing a traditional dance in full costume. After the poem, a large blank canvas was set up and Tawan painted one of his signature Falcons, making massive, dramatic brush strokes. When he was done they opened the large accordion doors to the house and a big cheer went up.
Inside, there was a high ceiling and the walls were covered with mostly large paintings by Songdej. The crowd pressed forward and eventually we got inside. The work was all in acrylic and the detail was amazing. At the far end of the main room there was a unique staircase that consisted of wooden steps that stuck out from the wall. There was a bamboo handrail on the wall and nothing else. We carefully climbed the stairs to see the small bedroom that was finished in raw concrete and bamboo. I'll be posting some photos later this week. We found out that the attendees were the entire village, and also two bus loads of students from Bangkok who were attending a workshop at Tawan's compound (The Black House). It was the party of the year. There was also live music and we had a wonderful time.
Sunday we met with our friend Rachel for lunch. She brought along two young people who were visiting from the States and doing a photo project with the kids from The Sold Project. They brought a bunch of cameras on their trip and each of the children will be given one to take pictures of whatever they want. The end result should be very interesting.
Down by the river they've started constructing bamboo shelters with thatch roofs in preparation for the festivities that will take place next month during the Songkran Festival. Time to break out the flower shirts.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"As soon as you trust yourself, you will know how to live."
~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
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