Hi,
Today was a beautiful day. Chiang Rai was partly cloudy, with very warm to hot temps. We visited the vet, got the car washed, and swam with our house guests. It's been a good day.
So, it was 'Easy' after all: James Brown singing "I Feel Good". Thanks for all those cards and letters. The 'Summer of Love' may be a challenge for some. Who remembers this: "Good mornin' sun I say it's good to see you shinin'. I know my baby brought you to me.... Got spring and summer runnin' through me. Hey __ __ __ it's good to have you back again, hey __ __ __ her lovin' is the medicine that saved me. Oh I love my baby." Clue: When the title is sung it's three words, even though technically, they're not really words. Hmm. Somebody got his girl back. The singer used his first name only.
This morning the doorbell rang and we thought it was the garden crew. It was the pool guy. I think he sometimes rings Boot's doorbell and she lets him in. A little later Kek showed up to tell us he couldn't do the yard today. We put it off 'til Monday. Since the pool would be available, we invited our friends, Jasper and Louise, to start their stay at our house today. They were anxious to go for a swim and it was such a warm day that it made sense. A time was set and our morning continued.
Today is BamBam's 3rd birthday. Lisa sang to her this morning. She got a little irritated when we took Daku outside on a leash for his trip to the vet. She wanted to go too. Daku has a very good memory and he remembers two visits ago when he got a harsh ear treatment. He does not like the doctor at all. As soon as he saw him he tried to hide behind chairs, us, or escape to the street. We managed to keep him calm while his got his shots. He didn't even notice them. His weight is staying pretty steady at 71 lbs and that's good. He was quite relieved to exit the building.
We went to Doi Chaang for lunch and got the car washed while we ate. That works out so cool sometimes. Oddly enough, we didn't see anyone we knew on this trip. After lunch we went to the vegetable market and stocked up on supplies.
After a brief relaxation period I went into town and picked up Jasper and Louise. When we got to the house they became instant friends with the dogs. We gave them a tour of the house and then we hit the pool. The water was perfect, the air was pleasant and we had a great time hanging out, talking in the pool.
This evening we went to the Night Bazaar for dinner and some gift shopping.
It's time for Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"See with your heart not with your eyes
for beauty lies everywhere."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Answers
Hi,
Welcome to the rainy season? Today began with the typical overcast sky. Then it started getting hot. Then it got dark and it rained again. We're supposed to have an average of 10 rain days this month, but why are they coming back-to-back?
Well, 'Easy Monday' brought lots of mail. It's one of those songs that can make you smile, or want to dance.
"Whoa! I feel nice, like sugar and spice (repeat) So nice, so nice, I got you. Whoa, __ __ __, I knew that I would..."
Clue: One of the best from the Godfather of Soul. Whoa!
This morning Boot got a call from Rayong telling her that her younger sister was in the hospital. I took her to the bus station to buy a ticket for the 5pm bus. Without a moments notice, everything changed. Boot will probably be gone for a week.
After I returned from the bus station, Lisa and I went to the market to get some fabric. Then it was out to Ghan's house so she can make some blouses and a new cover for the dog's bed. When we finished it was approaching lunch time. Since Boot had to get ready for her trip, we were on our own once again.
Traveling back into town we were weighing the merits of various lunch spot possibilities. We had to consider whether we wanted to eat in heat or the coolness of air-conditioning. We ended up going to Central Plaza for another lunch at S&P. After a really good lunch I spotted a couple from Denmark that I'd met last night. They were checking out the new mall. We talked for a bit and after we went on our separate ways Lisa mentioned that we could give them a ride back to the 'Guest House' where they were staying. Then we started realizing that they could stay with us for the couple of days they'd be in town. After a few phone calls we met them at McDonald's, told them our idea, and met up again at Starbuck's for a real conversation. It looks like they'll come over on Thursday and stay a few days.
As we pulled out of the covered garage at Central it was raining. It was so weird to go into the place with hazy sunshine and come out in rain. It wasn't as intense as Sunday night, but it kept a steady pace for a few hours.
The dogs are sensing that something is different around here. The routine has changed. There's no Boot. BamBam knows that when she spends the evening with us, at some point Boot comes home and she goes to her house. She keeps getting up and going to the door of our bedroom and making her little sound that says: 'Mommy's home, I have to go'. A little later I'll take her to Boot's house and let her sleep there. Life with dogs is an adventure sometimes.
Tomorrow the garden crew is supposed to come and groom the grounds. It's also the day we take Daku for one of his shots. There's also the matter of feeding ourselves and preparing for house guests. Things will be busy around here.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"The answers don't come before the question.
Ask the question."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Welcome to the rainy season? Today began with the typical overcast sky. Then it started getting hot. Then it got dark and it rained again. We're supposed to have an average of 10 rain days this month, but why are they coming back-to-back?
Well, 'Easy Monday' brought lots of mail. It's one of those songs that can make you smile, or want to dance.
"Whoa! I feel nice, like sugar and spice (repeat) So nice, so nice, I got you. Whoa, __ __ __, I knew that I would..."
Clue: One of the best from the Godfather of Soul. Whoa!
This morning Boot got a call from Rayong telling her that her younger sister was in the hospital. I took her to the bus station to buy a ticket for the 5pm bus. Without a moments notice, everything changed. Boot will probably be gone for a week.
After I returned from the bus station, Lisa and I went to the market to get some fabric. Then it was out to Ghan's house so she can make some blouses and a new cover for the dog's bed. When we finished it was approaching lunch time. Since Boot had to get ready for her trip, we were on our own once again.
Traveling back into town we were weighing the merits of various lunch spot possibilities. We had to consider whether we wanted to eat in heat or the coolness of air-conditioning. We ended up going to Central Plaza for another lunch at S&P. After a really good lunch I spotted a couple from Denmark that I'd met last night. They were checking out the new mall. We talked for a bit and after we went on our separate ways Lisa mentioned that we could give them a ride back to the 'Guest House' where they were staying. Then we started realizing that they could stay with us for the couple of days they'd be in town. After a few phone calls we met them at McDonald's, told them our idea, and met up again at Starbuck's for a real conversation. It looks like they'll come over on Thursday and stay a few days.
As we pulled out of the covered garage at Central it was raining. It was so weird to go into the place with hazy sunshine and come out in rain. It wasn't as intense as Sunday night, but it kept a steady pace for a few hours.
The dogs are sensing that something is different around here. The routine has changed. There's no Boot. BamBam knows that when she spends the evening with us, at some point Boot comes home and she goes to her house. She keeps getting up and going to the door of our bedroom and making her little sound that says: 'Mommy's home, I have to go'. A little later I'll take her to Boot's house and let her sleep there. Life with dogs is an adventure sometimes.
Tomorrow the garden crew is supposed to come and groom the grounds. It's also the day we take Daku for one of his shots. There's also the matter of feeding ourselves and preparing for house guests. Things will be busy around here.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"The answers don't come before the question.
Ask the question."
~Unknown
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Monday, April 18, 2011
Spark
Hi,
Songkran is finally over. Now it's time for the carwash. (Ha) The big news of the weekend was a Sunday night storm. Other than that, it was warm weather, afternoon swims, and Formula One.
'Old School Friday' was "I Got A Woman" by the late, great Ray Charles. 'Easy Monday' should be easier:
"__ __ __, like a knew that I would, (repeat). So good, so good, I got you." Hint: Really? Please, please, please.
Saturday we did our shopping early, lunched at home, and watched the qualifying for the big race through sleepy eyes. It's nice that the race is shown from China during the day, but it's right in the middle of nap time. I guess we should have had our coffee earlier. Hmm. We just hung out in the evening watching old science fiction while Lisa worked on a new piece.
Sunday was a pleasant day. We talked to my mom using Skype, watched the Grand Prix, took a swim, and then planned to go into town for dinner. Around 5pm the sky to the west got darker than usual. Then a stillness came over the yard, and then gusts of wind started coming. We knew what that meant. Off in the distance we heard thunder. The wind got stronger and we knew we had to decide about going out to dinner. We took a chance and went into town with the idea of going to the Night Bazaar. Just as we got there the wind came barreling down the street. With umbrellas in hand we started into the Bazaar and noticed that everyone who was set up was taking their booths down fast. When all the people around you are taking cover it's a sure bet that it's about to rain. Just as we got back to the car it began to rain. By the time we drove a block to Doi Chaang it was pouring. We ate dinner there and watched the rain. It stopped just as we were ready to leave. There were major puddles, tree limbs were down in places, and signs had been knocked over.
When we arrived at the house I noticed that the front door mat was in the driveway. I looked into the back yard and saw that our large red umbrella was missing. It had been blown out into the yard. A little water came in through a hall window, but everything else seemed OK. This morning the front yard was full of tiny branches from the big trees across the street, and one of our trees lost a limb. Daku found a palm branch and was running around with it like a trophy. Khun Kek and the yard crew are due this week so we'll just pick up the big pieces. There's more rain in the forecast but we don't really know when it will come. There will be no watering this week, that's for sure.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Buried deep within each of us is a spark of greatness,
a spark than can be fanned into flames of passion and achievement.
That spark is not outside of you it is born deep within you."
~James A. Ray
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Songkran is finally over. Now it's time for the carwash. (Ha) The big news of the weekend was a Sunday night storm. Other than that, it was warm weather, afternoon swims, and Formula One.
'Old School Friday' was "I Got A Woman" by the late, great Ray Charles. 'Easy Monday' should be easier:
"__ __ __, like a knew that I would, (repeat). So good, so good, I got you." Hint: Really? Please, please, please.
Saturday we did our shopping early, lunched at home, and watched the qualifying for the big race through sleepy eyes. It's nice that the race is shown from China during the day, but it's right in the middle of nap time. I guess we should have had our coffee earlier. Hmm. We just hung out in the evening watching old science fiction while Lisa worked on a new piece.
Sunday was a pleasant day. We talked to my mom using Skype, watched the Grand Prix, took a swim, and then planned to go into town for dinner. Around 5pm the sky to the west got darker than usual. Then a stillness came over the yard, and then gusts of wind started coming. We knew what that meant. Off in the distance we heard thunder. The wind got stronger and we knew we had to decide about going out to dinner. We took a chance and went into town with the idea of going to the Night Bazaar. Just as we got there the wind came barreling down the street. With umbrellas in hand we started into the Bazaar and noticed that everyone who was set up was taking their booths down fast. When all the people around you are taking cover it's a sure bet that it's about to rain. Just as we got back to the car it began to rain. By the time we drove a block to Doi Chaang it was pouring. We ate dinner there and watched the rain. It stopped just as we were ready to leave. There were major puddles, tree limbs were down in places, and signs had been knocked over.
When we arrived at the house I noticed that the front door mat was in the driveway. I looked into the back yard and saw that our large red umbrella was missing. It had been blown out into the yard. A little water came in through a hall window, but everything else seemed OK. This morning the front yard was full of tiny branches from the big trees across the street, and one of our trees lost a limb. Daku found a palm branch and was running around with it like a trophy. Khun Kek and the yard crew are due this week so we'll just pick up the big pieces. There's more rain in the forecast but we don't really know when it will come. There will be no watering this week, that's for sure.
Have a Great Week.
Peace,
Danny
"Buried deep within each of us is a spark of greatness,
a spark than can be fanned into flames of passion and achievement.
That spark is not outside of you it is born deep within you."
~James A. Ray
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Friday, April 15, 2011
Friday Funnies
Hi,
Today was the last official day of the Songkran celebration. We went to town this morning, lunched at Central Plaza and managed to stay dry. It was the hottest day of the week and the pool was a great relief. We also had a visit from a friend.
The 'Summer of Love' song was "Alice's Restaurant" by Arlo Guthrie. If you Google the title it's a funny, interesting read. 'Old School Friday' takes us back to 1954, and a song you're sure to know, even if you're not old enough. (Ha) "__ __ __ __ way over town, that's good to me. Oh yeah. (repeat) She give me money when I'm in need, yeah she's a kind of friend indeed. __ __ __ __ way over town that's good to me. Oh yeah." Clue: It's by a singer who had an incredible career that covered many decades. A movie was made of his life. What'd I say?
Today Boot went to Ban Du to help her mother-in-law with her lottery sales. That meant we were on our own for food. Since our regular bakery was closed, we went down to Jet Yod Rd. to the little hotel/bakery for a loaf of bread. From there we went to Central Plaza. The mall was open before 11am so we had a chance to do more browsing before lunch. We went to the tech stores and then to Top's Market. Top's is the biggest grocery store in Chiang Rai now and has some western style food as well as gourmet Thai food.
When lunch time arrived we thought we'd check out the Black Canyon restaurant since it was new. We sat down and ordered, but our waiter told us it would take twenty seven minutes for our meal. We left and went to S&P, which is a combination bakery/restaurant. We had a nice meal that didn't take too long, and went home. There is still lots to see at Central Plaza so we'll be going back soon.
Our friend Sutheera came over in the afternoon and she and Lisa had a nice visit. Then is was time to get in the pool. The water was back to an acceptable 83 degrees. Initial entry is cold, but once we were in it felt great. I'm sure it felt warmer than the river.
The water throwing continued today, but not with the same gusto as before. Mostly duels between trucks, and cyclists getting dowsed by everyone. Next year we're going to go out and film just the kids. There's something very special about the little kids working hard to get people wet. By the lack of response, I guess nobody looked at the photo story about Bangkok that I sent, so you'll never know just how crazy it can be.
This weekend we'll be watching the F1 Grand Prix from Shanghai. It still amazes me that something so popular in the rest of the world is hardly watched or reported on in the U.S. Zoom.
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. It's time for the 'Funnies'. This is the last installment of Funny English Notices from around the world. Enjoy.
Peace,
Danny
On the door of a Moscow hotel room:
If this is your first visit to the USSR, you are welcome to
it.
In a Norwegian cocktail lounge:
Ladies are requested not to have children in the bar.
In a Budapest zoo:
Please do not feed the animals. If you have any suitable
food, give it to the guard on duty.
In an Acapulco hotel:
The manager has personally passed all the water served here.
In a Tokyo shop:
Our nylons cost more than common, but you'll find they are
best in the long run.
From a Japanese information booklet about using a hotel air
conditioner:
Cooles and Heates: If you want just condition of warm in your
room, please control yourself.
From a brochure of a car rental firm in Tokyo:
When passenger of foot heave in sight, tootle the horn.
Trumpet him melodiously at first, but if he still obstacles
your passage then tootle him with vigor.
Two signs from a Majorcan shop entrance:
- English well talking.
- Here speeching American.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Today was the last official day of the Songkran celebration. We went to town this morning, lunched at Central Plaza and managed to stay dry. It was the hottest day of the week and the pool was a great relief. We also had a visit from a friend.
The 'Summer of Love' song was "Alice's Restaurant" by Arlo Guthrie. If you Google the title it's a funny, interesting read. 'Old School Friday' takes us back to 1954, and a song you're sure to know, even if you're not old enough. (Ha) "__ __ __ __ way over town, that's good to me. Oh yeah. (repeat) She give me money when I'm in need, yeah she's a kind of friend indeed. __ __ __ __ way over town that's good to me. Oh yeah." Clue: It's by a singer who had an incredible career that covered many decades. A movie was made of his life. What'd I say?
Today Boot went to Ban Du to help her mother-in-law with her lottery sales. That meant we were on our own for food. Since our regular bakery was closed, we went down to Jet Yod Rd. to the little hotel/bakery for a loaf of bread. From there we went to Central Plaza. The mall was open before 11am so we had a chance to do more browsing before lunch. We went to the tech stores and then to Top's Market. Top's is the biggest grocery store in Chiang Rai now and has some western style food as well as gourmet Thai food.
When lunch time arrived we thought we'd check out the Black Canyon restaurant since it was new. We sat down and ordered, but our waiter told us it would take twenty seven minutes for our meal. We left and went to S&P, which is a combination bakery/restaurant. We had a nice meal that didn't take too long, and went home. There is still lots to see at Central Plaza so we'll be going back soon.
Our friend Sutheera came over in the afternoon and she and Lisa had a nice visit. Then is was time to get in the pool. The water was back to an acceptable 83 degrees. Initial entry is cold, but once we were in it felt great. I'm sure it felt warmer than the river.
The water throwing continued today, but not with the same gusto as before. Mostly duels between trucks, and cyclists getting dowsed by everyone. Next year we're going to go out and film just the kids. There's something very special about the little kids working hard to get people wet. By the lack of response, I guess nobody looked at the photo story about Bangkok that I sent, so you'll never know just how crazy it can be.
This weekend we'll be watching the F1 Grand Prix from Shanghai. It still amazes me that something so popular in the rest of the world is hardly watched or reported on in the U.S. Zoom.
Have a Wonderful WeekEnd. It's time for the 'Funnies'. This is the last installment of Funny English Notices from around the world. Enjoy.
Peace,
Danny
On the door of a Moscow hotel room:
If this is your first visit to the USSR, you are welcome to
it.
In a Norwegian cocktail lounge:
Ladies are requested not to have children in the bar.
In a Budapest zoo:
Please do not feed the animals. If you have any suitable
food, give it to the guard on duty.
In an Acapulco hotel:
The manager has personally passed all the water served here.
In a Tokyo shop:
Our nylons cost more than common, but you'll find they are
best in the long run.
From a Japanese information booklet about using a hotel air
conditioner:
Cooles and Heates: If you want just condition of warm in your
room, please control yourself.
From a brochure of a car rental firm in Tokyo:
When passenger of foot heave in sight, tootle the horn.
Trumpet him melodiously at first, but if he still obstacles
your passage then tootle him with vigor.
Two signs from a Majorcan shop entrance:
- English well talking.
- Here speeching American.
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Even More Light
Hi,
Chiang Rai is still caught up in Songkran celebration. In fact, most of Thailand is throwing water all over the place. Today we went back to video some of the revelry, and though we didn't participate, we had fun watching.
In case you think no one remembers this song from the 'Summer of Love', I got lots of mail that said it was easy.
"...but that's not what I came to tell you about. Came to talk about the draft. They got a building down in New York City, it's called Whitehall Street, where you walk in, you get injected, inspected, detected, infected, neglected, and selected... You can get anything you want down at __ __." Hint: It's what might be called a 'talkin' song' since most of it's spoken. Oh yes, the title gives one the impression that it's about an eating establishment.
This morning we woke up to a hazy sky. It looked like it was going to be another hot day. About an hour later fog rolled in for a brief stay and then the heat came. It was strange to see the fog and I have no idea why this happened. We went into town to get some bread from our favorite bakery, but they were closed. That left only one thing to do, go to Doi Chaang for some coffee. While we were there we saw a couple of friends and got brief updates. The 'water people' were just getting started and we made it home before the traffic built up.
Around 3:30 we decided to go back to the street we traveled on yesterday and take the video camera. The whole thing was more intense than yesterday. The primary target for water seemed to be motorbikes and pick-up trucks with people in the back. Sometimes the trucks would stop in front of a sidewalk 'water station' and just throw bucket after bucket of water, while getting the same in return. Some of the motorbike riders would slow down so they could be sprayed. There was lots of screaming whenever water landed on the people in a truck. All along the road there were parties going on. On one side of the street we'd hear traditional upbeat dance music, and on the other side, the thumping of Thai rap. It wasn't just wasted on the young either. Everybody was out there dancing, laughing and throwing water.
At the river there was a mass of people enjoying the water, eating, and dancing to the live music being played on a make-shift stage. It's almost 9pm and the music is still going. If you'd like to get a view of what it's like in Bangkok, here's a link from the Bangkok Post with a visual of the festivities. Be sure and check out the slideshow at the bottom:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/231866/let-the-fun-begin
Have a Thrilling Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"Remember the powerful presence that you are.
Remember the powerful being that you are.
Remember the light that you are."
~Aq'naton Ben-Ish
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Chiang Rai is still caught up in Songkran celebration. In fact, most of Thailand is throwing water all over the place. Today we went back to video some of the revelry, and though we didn't participate, we had fun watching.
In case you think no one remembers this song from the 'Summer of Love', I got lots of mail that said it was easy.
"...but that's not what I came to tell you about. Came to talk about the draft. They got a building down in New York City, it's called Whitehall Street, where you walk in, you get injected, inspected, detected, infected, neglected, and selected... You can get anything you want down at __ __." Hint: It's what might be called a 'talkin' song' since most of it's spoken. Oh yes, the title gives one the impression that it's about an eating establishment.
This morning we woke up to a hazy sky. It looked like it was going to be another hot day. About an hour later fog rolled in for a brief stay and then the heat came. It was strange to see the fog and I have no idea why this happened. We went into town to get some bread from our favorite bakery, but they were closed. That left only one thing to do, go to Doi Chaang for some coffee. While we were there we saw a couple of friends and got brief updates. The 'water people' were just getting started and we made it home before the traffic built up.
Around 3:30 we decided to go back to the street we traveled on yesterday and take the video camera. The whole thing was more intense than yesterday. The primary target for water seemed to be motorbikes and pick-up trucks with people in the back. Sometimes the trucks would stop in front of a sidewalk 'water station' and just throw bucket after bucket of water, while getting the same in return. Some of the motorbike riders would slow down so they could be sprayed. There was lots of screaming whenever water landed on the people in a truck. All along the road there were parties going on. On one side of the street we'd hear traditional upbeat dance music, and on the other side, the thumping of Thai rap. It wasn't just wasted on the young either. Everybody was out there dancing, laughing and throwing water.
At the river there was a mass of people enjoying the water, eating, and dancing to the live music being played on a make-shift stage. It's almost 9pm and the music is still going. If you'd like to get a view of what it's like in Bangkok, here's a link from the Bangkok Post with a visual of the festivities. Be sure and check out the slideshow at the bottom:
http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/231866/let-the-fun-begin
Have a Thrilling Thursday.
Peace,
Danny
"Remember the powerful presence that you are.
Remember the powerful being that you are.
Remember the light that you are."
~Aq'naton Ben-Ish
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A Little More Light
Hi,
Last night it rained. This morning it drizzled for a bit. This afternoon was overcast and cool. Something has happened to our weather. It didn't stop the Songkran revelers at all. We went to a Songkran party this evening.
That pesky 'Easy' song was "Wooly Bully" by Sam The Sham & The Pharaohs. It was a tribute to "Hully Gully", also a dance record. Even if you didn't like it, it was an historical recording on many levels. So, on to the 'Summer of Love'. This one may be obscure to some, but very familiar to others. It's by the son of an American musical legend and it goes something like this: "You can get anything you want at __ __. (repeat) Walk right in it's around the back just a half a mile from the railroad track..." Hint: Not your usual popular song, this was more of a folk type saga. A very long story. If you remember please let me know.
Today was a stay at home day. I managed to do some things around the house that had been waiting for me for days. We hung some of Lisa prints, and pondered where to put others. We offered to go to the market for Boot so she could avoid the water tossing but she said "They not throw water early".
On the large piece of land behind our house, some people have put up a fence near the half farthest from us. We have no idea why, but it's just a boundary kind of affair. The only thing it could contain would be cows. It's a wait and see situation. I'm hoping it's just a farming thing.
We were invited to Khun Jaffee's house this evening for a Songkran Party. There were nine of us for a pot-luck dinner. We sat out on Jaffee's patio and enjoyed the evening with conversation and good food. On the way to the party we drove through a village that was totally into the Songkran spirit. The street was lined with mostly young people who were throwing water, dancing, and generally having fun. Everyone was soaking wet but they didn't seem to mind. Trucks would pull up to a 'water station' and douse those on the sidewalk, and then they would get soaked in return. We'd never seen this intensity before. I guess you just have to know where to go. Needless to say, traffic was very slow through this village.
By not going out today, we missed all of the parades and traffic jams. Oh, what a shame. There was one parade that sounded pretty cool. It was the official parade down the main street in town, with floats, marching units and firetrucks spraying water. Maybe next year.
Right now it's time for Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another
human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who
have rekindled this light."
~Albert Schweitzer (1875 - 1965)
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Last night it rained. This morning it drizzled for a bit. This afternoon was overcast and cool. Something has happened to our weather. It didn't stop the Songkran revelers at all. We went to a Songkran party this evening.
That pesky 'Easy' song was "Wooly Bully" by Sam The Sham & The Pharaohs. It was a tribute to "Hully Gully", also a dance record. Even if you didn't like it, it was an historical recording on many levels. So, on to the 'Summer of Love'. This one may be obscure to some, but very familiar to others. It's by the son of an American musical legend and it goes something like this: "You can get anything you want at __ __. (repeat) Walk right in it's around the back just a half a mile from the railroad track..." Hint: Not your usual popular song, this was more of a folk type saga. A very long story. If you remember please let me know.
Today was a stay at home day. I managed to do some things around the house that had been waiting for me for days. We hung some of Lisa prints, and pondered where to put others. We offered to go to the market for Boot so she could avoid the water tossing but she said "They not throw water early".
On the large piece of land behind our house, some people have put up a fence near the half farthest from us. We have no idea why, but it's just a boundary kind of affair. The only thing it could contain would be cows. It's a wait and see situation. I'm hoping it's just a farming thing.
We were invited to Khun Jaffee's house this evening for a Songkran Party. There were nine of us for a pot-luck dinner. We sat out on Jaffee's patio and enjoyed the evening with conversation and good food. On the way to the party we drove through a village that was totally into the Songkran spirit. The street was lined with mostly young people who were throwing water, dancing, and generally having fun. Everyone was soaking wet but they didn't seem to mind. Trucks would pull up to a 'water station' and douse those on the sidewalk, and then they would get soaked in return. We'd never seen this intensity before. I guess you just have to know where to go. Needless to say, traffic was very slow through this village.
By not going out today, we missed all of the parades and traffic jams. Oh, what a shame. There was one parade that sounded pretty cool. It was the official parade down the main street in town, with floats, marching units and firetrucks spraying water. Maybe next year.
Right now it's time for Wacky Wednesday.
Peace,
Danny
"Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame by another
human being. Each of us owes deepest thanks to those who
have rekindled this light."
~Albert Schweitzer (1875 - 1965)
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
More LIght
Hi,
Chiang Rai had more heat today, but many cooled off involuntarily: they had water tossed on them. We went to Central Plaza, and then got in our own water. Yes, the pool is happening.
Looks like 'Easy Monday' wasn't so easy for some of you. I did get a lot of email with the right answer though.
"Hatty told Matty, 'Let's don't take a chance. Let's not be L-Seven, come and learn to dance.' __ __, __ __ (repeat a bunch)" Clues: This record was the first American single to sell one million during the British Invasion. Stayed on the Hot 100 for 18 weeks. The band had another record based on a children's story. Two words in the title and they don't mean a thing. Huh?
Today we went to Central Plaza again. This time we had a mission. We were looking for an air-brush kit so Lisa can experiment with that process. When we arrived at the mall it wasn't open. They are still operating on an 11am start time. A stop at Starbucks for iced coffee passed a little time. Then we went into Robinson with the idea of going upstairs and into the book store. Lisa spotted some sandals by Scholl that looked similar to the MBTs she used to wear. The sole is curved like a rocking chair so you sort of roll through each step. It's great for the body and posture. They didn't have her size but it peaked my interest so we went to the men's department. I found a pair and wore them out. At the big book and art supply store we saw many things, but not what we wanted. Back into the mall we discovered a Next Beat Apple store. They had the power supply we needed for one of our laptops. Things were looking up. After browsing at Banana IT we got some paper and then went into the huge electronics store. Way too much to look at in one visit. The whole morning was fun and informative. The crowd was building as we left.
Out on the streets the 'water stations' were getting started. Kids of all ages, with buckets of every description were tossing water on cars and bikes. We got a few light hits but not the windshield drenching kind. This evening when I went into town to meet some friends, it looked like it had rained. This was due to the pick-up trucks that roam around with big drums of water, with teen-agers throwing it at passing cars and at other trucks. Down at the river it looked like a festival was going on. There were lots of people in the water, and all of the little eating platforms were in use. This is the first year for this and I'm sure it won't be the last.
We got a call today from our friend Joe, from Emerald Thai in Culver City. He's in Chiang Mai for the holiday and invited us to come there and visit him next week. He wants to take us up to Doi Inthanon. It's the highest mountain in all of Thailand. He used to be in the Air Force and was a Commander stationed there. There are many species of birds, tons of wild orchids, and waterfalls. The plan is for us to stay on the mountain overnight at one of the houses on the base. The adventure continues.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the pool was a hair over 83 this afternoon. After testing the water we decided to go in and it turned out to be very pleasant. It felt good to get the exercise that swimming provides. There is thunder in the distance tonight, and occasional flashes of lightning. Rain would be good, but it would also cool the pool. Oh, what to wish for? Hmm.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"A little light in a dark room is still a great illumination."
~Ernest Holmes
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
Chiang Rai had more heat today, but many cooled off involuntarily: they had water tossed on them. We went to Central Plaza, and then got in our own water. Yes, the pool is happening.
Looks like 'Easy Monday' wasn't so easy for some of you. I did get a lot of email with the right answer though.
"Hatty told Matty, 'Let's don't take a chance. Let's not be L-Seven, come and learn to dance.' __ __, __ __ (repeat a bunch)" Clues: This record was the first American single to sell one million during the British Invasion. Stayed on the Hot 100 for 18 weeks. The band had another record based on a children's story. Two words in the title and they don't mean a thing. Huh?
Today we went to Central Plaza again. This time we had a mission. We were looking for an air-brush kit so Lisa can experiment with that process. When we arrived at the mall it wasn't open. They are still operating on an 11am start time. A stop at Starbucks for iced coffee passed a little time. Then we went into Robinson with the idea of going upstairs and into the book store. Lisa spotted some sandals by Scholl that looked similar to the MBTs she used to wear. The sole is curved like a rocking chair so you sort of roll through each step. It's great for the body and posture. They didn't have her size but it peaked my interest so we went to the men's department. I found a pair and wore them out. At the big book and art supply store we saw many things, but not what we wanted. Back into the mall we discovered a Next Beat Apple store. They had the power supply we needed for one of our laptops. Things were looking up. After browsing at Banana IT we got some paper and then went into the huge electronics store. Way too much to look at in one visit. The whole morning was fun and informative. The crowd was building as we left.
Out on the streets the 'water stations' were getting started. Kids of all ages, with buckets of every description were tossing water on cars and bikes. We got a few light hits but not the windshield drenching kind. This evening when I went into town to meet some friends, it looked like it had rained. This was due to the pick-up trucks that roam around with big drums of water, with teen-agers throwing it at passing cars and at other trucks. Down at the river it looked like a festival was going on. There were lots of people in the water, and all of the little eating platforms were in use. This is the first year for this and I'm sure it won't be the last.
We got a call today from our friend Joe, from Emerald Thai in Culver City. He's in Chiang Mai for the holiday and invited us to come there and visit him next week. He wants to take us up to Doi Inthanon. It's the highest mountain in all of Thailand. He used to be in the Air Force and was a Commander stationed there. There are many species of birds, tons of wild orchids, and waterfalls. The plan is for us to stay on the mountain overnight at one of the houses on the base. The adventure continues.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the pool was a hair over 83 this afternoon. After testing the water we decided to go in and it turned out to be very pleasant. It felt good to get the exercise that swimming provides. There is thunder in the distance tonight, and occasional flashes of lightning. Rain would be good, but it would also cool the pool. Oh, what to wish for? Hmm.
Have a Happy Tuesday.
Peace,
Danny
"A little light in a dark room is still a great illumination."
~Ernest Holmes
Gettin' Funky, Thai Style
www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics
http://blog.risingstardom.com/
www.lisamosesgallery.com
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