Future

Hi,

We're back in Chiang Rai after our quick round trip.  There was no rain for us and that was wonderful.  Traffic was light and our return was in good time, even with a stop for coffee and pie (555).

A few of you jumped right on the 'Easy Monday' tune.  If you ever wanted to act out the lyrics, maybe you were...

"I like smoke and lightning, heavy metal thunder, racin' with the wind and the feelin' that I'm under... Like a true nature's child, we were __, __ __ __ __.  We can climb so high, I never wanna die.  __ __ __ __, __ __ __ __."

Hint:  It's easy.  

This morning we drove through the city, following directions from the hotel staff, to a salon called 'NewYorkNewYork'.  The main stylist studied and worked in New York and other cities before returning to Thailand.  Lisa was referred to her by a friend of ours.  This place was very different from the little shophouse salons we usually see.  Just another example of the big city nature of Chiang Mai.  

I have been trying to pinpoint what seems so different when we're in Chiang Mai, besides the tempo and the numbers.  Today I realized that there is no sense of 'village', because it's a city.  Here in Chiang Rai, you drive down a street and you see signs telling you what village you're driving through.  The markets and stands have that neighborhood vibe.  Yes, it's the country.  

While having lunch, I noticed a sign across the busy street.  It read 'Fruiturday', as in a day of the week.  That was clever, but what really made me take the photo was the word 'i-cream'.  When speaking English, Thais generally don't pronounce the ends of words, and 'ice-cream' is a good example.  The sign is what it sounds like.  

People in Chiang Mai are still concerned about the earthquakes in Chiang Rai.  It's been a long time since the big one, but with all the news coverage about the aftershocks, you'd think we were about to sink into the molten center of the planet.  I guess if there could be an upside to any of that, it's that it has slowed the fever to move to our quiet town.  

Have a Happy Tuesday.

               Peace,

                         Danny

"You may have made some mistakes,

and you may not be where you want to be,

but that's got nothing to do 

with your future."

~Zig Ziglar

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style 

www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics

www.lisamosesgallery.com

Remote

Hi,

Chiang Mai weather is perfect, if you like warm and humid.  It's really not bad, considering it's not rain.  There's a big, full moon in the sky tonight.  

The 'Old School Friday' song was "Going In Circles" by Friends of Distinction.  'Easy Monday' is next.  Have fun.

"Get your motor runnin'.  Head out on the highway.  Lookin' for adventure, an whatever comes our way.  Yeah, darlin' go make it happen.  Take the world in a love embrace.  Fire all of your guns at once, and explode into  space...."  Hint: Late '60s song that became a Rock anthem, title is four words.

Sunday evening we had dinner at Central Plaza.  While we were eating, a couple walked in and sat in the booth behind us.  All of a sudden Lisa's face lit up.  It was our friend Bobby, who used to work at our bank.  We haven't seen him in a couple of years.  He was a big help any time we went to the bank.  One could even say he spoiled us.  

Today we hit the highway for Chiang Mai earlier than usual.  Forty-five minutes out of town we made our stop at Charon Gardens for pie.  Since we had just had breakfast, we had pie and coffee.  Hmm, isn't that what you do on a mini-vacation?  We got to the city at lunchtime and stopped at Central Festival.  This mall is purely for looking, not shopping.  There are probably a few places with reasonable prices, but it's basically an up-scale adventure for the rich.  Example:  We passed a counter in the cosmetics section of the department store.  The lipstick was $30.  That's one tube.  Nice colors though.  

Between maps and fuzzy memory we managed to get around Chiang Mai, find our business destination, and then our hotel without getting lost.  We are staying at the Dusit D2, where we have stayed in the past.  It's a very 'hip', modern hotel with a very nice staff.  At the front desk we were greeted by a young woman who took us to the 7th floor for a special check-in.  We had booked a room on the 'Club Deluxe' floor.  What?  So, it's like the rest of the hotel, except there's a lounge with free coffee, juice and fruit all day.  At the pool, we had just finished our swim when a rep from the spa offered us a 5 minute sample massage.  Hmm, free massage after a swim, sure.  Now we know what's been missing in our exercise at home.  

This evening we went to dinner with a print artist we met a few years ago.  Khun Kong is a former professor at the university, and now has a printmaking workshop/gallery.  We went to a Vietnamese restaurant and had a very stimulating conversation over an interesting meal.  He's going to be giving a TED talk later this month and he was telling us about his topic and art in Chiang Mai in general.  Tomorrow we will visit his shop before heading home.

Today I saw a sliding glass door with a sign that said, "Beware the mirror".  Hmm, I don't think that's what they meant, but it struck me as very funny anyway.

 You see the strangest things while driving on the highway.  This morning we saw what appeared to be a playhouse, and just had to share.

Have a Great Week.

                 Peace,

                           Danny 

"Life has no remote.

Get up and change it yourself."

~Unknown

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style 

www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics

www.lisamosesgallery.com

Friday Funnies

Hi,

Chiang Rai had another rain free day.  The night is still young, so who knows what might still happen.  

That 'Zany Day' song was "Love Potion Number Nine" by The Clovers.  'Old School Friday' comes from 1969:

"I'm an ever rollin' wheel, without a destination real.  I'm an ever spinning top, whirling around till I drop.

Oh, but what am I to do, my mind is in a whirlpool.  Give me a little hope, one small thing to cling to.  You got me

__ __ __.  Oh, 'round and 'round I go, you got me __ __ __.  Oh, 'round and 'round I go, I'm spun out over you...."

Clue:  The title involves a geometric design.  This R&B ballad had many covers.  Do you know who did it first?

This morning we braved the morning traffic to go to the Sports Center where Cat's school was having their annual 'Sports Day'.  When we arrived they were still staging the groups for the parade that would march around the track.  The school has about 3,000 students and most of them were in the stands waiting to cheer whatever happened.  We found Cat and took some photos of her in her costume.  The school is divided into colors over the many grade levels.  Each color group had a unit in the parade and they all had exotic, traditional costumes.  In the afternoon I went back to pick up Cat and I couldn't believe the number of school vans, cars and motorbikes that were all trying to converge on the Sports Center.  Eventually, I got there and on the trip home Cat told me about her day.  She had been up since 2:30am and was very tired, but happy.

After Lisa and I dropped Cat off, we went to Chivit Tamma Da for coffee.  It was early and we were the only patrons.  We sat on the patio and enjoyed the view of the swollen river and all the intense plant life.  Today's photo was at this almost jungle-like coffee house.

While hanging out in the pool this afternoon, we realized that we get to experience beauty every day, whether it's driving down our street, or having a cup of coffee.  Even in the middle of the city there are touches that always make us smile.  Orchids on trees, or artistic lamp posts, it never gets dull.

This evening we had dinner with our friend Cornelis, an artist with a unique style and lots of stories to tell.  We had a fun dinner at Muu Mai Restaurant and learned more about our friend.  He's an expat from Holland and he once was a healer, a singer, managed ballet companies, and has lived in many places in the world.  

Monday I will be writing to you from Chiang Mai.  We're driving down that morning for a little overnight business trip.  Yes, we will probably stop for pie (555).

Have a Wonderful WeekEnd.      Time for the 'Funnies'.

                   Peace,

                             Danny

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style 

www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics

www.lisamosesgallery.com

Inside

Hi,

Today we had no rain.  That doesn't mean it won't happen tonight, but the day was great.  It was nice seeing blue sky for a change.

The 'Zany Day' song has a lot of followers.  This should be an easy one, even if it's before your time (555).

"I didn't know if it was day or night.  I started kissin' everything in sight.  But when I kissed the cop down at Thirty-Fourth and Vine, he broke my little bottle of __ __ __ __."  Clue:  There's a number in there.

This morning the dogs were very busy checking out the yard.  Not only had things been cut, trimmed and cleaned, but it had rained last night, so there were many new smells to investigate.  Mr. Daku was full of energy and was a lot of fun.  

We went to Bliss Studios, home of our photographer friend Chalit.  He is going to photograph some of the artwork for the catalog for the exhibit of Lisa and her father, Joe.  Chalit always gets the colors right and the images always translate beautifully in print.  

I have told you about the abundance of eye glass shops here in Chiang Rai.  I suspect it's the same in every city, but they're so concentrated here, that it seems a little odd.  I needed to get a new prescription for my glasses, and wanted to find someplace that was good.  I checked on a forum that caters to expats living in Chiang Rai and I found what may be the perfect place.  On the street that is filled with branches of the major chains, we went to a little mom and pop style shop where the owner spoke English, and understood my needs.  He even suggested getting a second pair of glasses for working on the computer and other close-range things.  He and his wife were very helpful, and I'll get my new 'eyes' next week.

Many shops around town have a shrine somewhere in the store with an image of Confucius, the Chinese teacher and philosopher.  A few days ago we went into a shop that had a double shrine.  The upper portion was to The Buddha, and the lower was to Confucius.  It's the first time I have seen them together like this.  Today's photo is a clear sign of the owners devotion to principles.

Well, I said it might rain tonight and it just hit.  So much for a rainless day in Chiang Rai.  We're supposed to get even more into the weekend.  There have been warnings that the runoff in the plains areas might be a problem because water is coming from Northern areas like where we are.  We're not in the mountains, but we are at a higher elevation.  

News update:  BamBam just ran into the bedroom and cuddled up on the floor next to my side of the bed.  A giant thunder clap just hit and it felt like it was right above the house.  Daku wasn't fazed, but BamBam was clearly rattled.  It may be a long night.

Have a Thrilling Thursday.

                 Peace,

                           Danny

"The way to go for happiness in life

is not to, 'go for it' on the outside;

'go for it' on the inside."

~Dzigar Kogtrui Rinpoche

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style 

www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics

www.lisamosesgallery.com

Step

Hi,

The rain just won't go away.  It's an off and on thing that we deal with on a daily basis.  Everyone talks about it and it's the latest thing that binds us all together.  Our dear friend Blue is coming to Thailand in two weeks and that has us very excited.

This week's 'Easy Monday' song was "I Say A Little Prayer" by Dionne Warwick.  It was pointed out that Aretha Franklin had a very strong cover of this tune.  Oh yeah.  Time for some 'Zany Day' madness.  "I took my troubles down to Madame Rue.  You know that gypsy with the gold-capped tooth.  She's got a pad down on Thirty-fourth and Vine, sellin' little bottles of __ __ __ __."  Hint:  She's not selling lotion, but there's a rhyme in there.  

When there is extreme weather of any kind, it affects everybody in some way.  We have been noticing how it changes lives in different ways.  The rain stops some people from being able to do their jobs, while others have to make adjustments to keep working.  We've learned a lot about dealing with nature living here.  Today the yard crew came to groom the place.  When the rain was light they kept working.  When it got heavier they sat on the porch.  The whole day took longer, but they kept at it until the job was done.  During lunch I could see their gloves laid out on the driveway, drying in the sunshine.  A few hours later the gloves were soaked again.  They were still working when we sat down for dinner.  Cat commented that they probably had families at home and maybe they could come back tomorrow and finish.  We explained that while we agreed, it wasn't up to us to let them go home.  It was nice to see her compassion for the women working so hard.  

This afternoon we drove out to the frame factory.  This time we took some photos of the rice fields.  We snapped shots in every direction and they all came out green.  Today's photo is one of those 'snaps'.

Every year, around this time, Cat's school has what they call 'Sports Day'.  It's actually a two-day event where some of the students participate in various sports like volleyball, football, badminton, and track events.  Those who don't run, jump and kick, sit in the stands and cheer.  Each grade level is divided into 'colors' and they compete on and off the field.  Cat will be spending Thursday night at a classmates house so they can get up before dawn to do hair and make-up for their roles as 'greeters'.  They will be dressed in traditional Lana outfits and welcome the other students to the games.  We'll go to the event early and take some photos. 

In two weeks Blue will arrive in Thailand.  He's been trying to get back for a long time and it's finally happening.  We are really looking forward to his return to the Kingdom.  I have heard many people say that if you live here for a long period of time, it gets to you and you'll want to return.  I guess it's true.  

Time for Wacky Wednesday.

                   Peace,

                             Danny

"Sometimes the smallest step

in the right direction ends up being

the biggest step of your life.

Tip toe if you must, but 

take the step."

~Unknown

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style 

www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics

www.lisamosesgallery.com

Interest

Hi,

Yesterday was just a vacation from the rain.  It returned this morning with another heavy shower where we live, and major rain elsewhere.  

This 'Easy Monday' song is still in the hearts and minds of many.  Here's another verse, just in case you need it:

"I run for the bus dear, while riding I think of us dear.  __ __ __ __ __ for you.  At work I just take time, and all through my coffee break-time __ __ __ __ __ for you.  Forever, forever, you'll stay in my heart and I will love you..."  Hint:  This was one of many hits by a songwriting duo and their favorite singer.  

The morning doggie exercise had to be delayed because of rain.  Eventually, they got to do their thing.  BamBam took advantage of all the puddles, using them to cool off between her ball-chasing runs.  By the end of the session, she was a happy mess.

When we left the house, there was a very light sprinkle, but by the time we reached Makro, a few miles away, there was a real monsoonal downpour in progress.  Strange rain in these parts.  The ground is so saturated that there have been new warnings issued for most areas of the north of Thailand.  We are still quite fortunate that our little part of the province is draining, although I suspect the river is getting close to homes in some other areas.  It's looking very wide by the Pink Bridge.

Driving south on the Super Highway, heading into town, we had a chance to grab the photo for the day.  It's the construction site for 'Browney's Pet World', which will be the new home of our favorite pet supply shop.  

One thing we realized today is that we have lots of mental stimulation in our lives.  Between living in a country where we barely speak the language, and where we are illiterate, is enough to keep us on our toes.  When you factor in the 16-year-old, and all that comes with that, there is always something to think about, decide about, or ponder.  There is physical down-time, but the mind is always busy.  It definitely makes life interesting, and that's a good thing.

Have a Happy Tuesday.

               Peace,

                         Danny

"If you want to be interesting,

be interested."

~Unknown

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style 

www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics

www.lisamosesgallery.com

Look

Hi,

Today was another beautiful day in Chiang Rai.  We really needed it to continue the 'drying process'.  We went on a doggie adventure this morning, and Daku learned how to ride in a car.

'Old School Friday' was "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes" by The Platters.  That means it's time for 'Easy Monday'.  See if you remember this one:  "The moment I wake up, before I put on my makeup, __ __ __ __ __  for you.  While combing my hair now, and wondering what to dress to wear now, __ __ __ __ __ for you."  Hint: The singer performs an act of devotion?    

 

After the morning rain subsided we loaded the dogs into the van for a trip to the vet.  Before we even went downstairs, Daku sensed something when Lisa mentioned the van.  It's the second time he's gotten revved up before he even sees his leash.  The plan was for BamBam and Daku to ride in the back part of the van, but Daku wanted to ride in the back seat with Lisa, so he jumped over the backrest and wouldn't go back.  BamBam decided to follow 

him, which meant that Lisa now had two excited dogs climbing around and on her.  Once we were underway, she opened the window a bit so BamBam could stick her head out.  A few moments later Daku put his head out and for the first time, he experienced what it means to act like a dog in a moving vehicle.  This was a big deal, because he has never put his head out in the past.  BamBam showed him the way.  At the vet's the dogs were pretty well behaved.  There were no other animals there, but lots to smell.  That kept them occupied until it was time for their shot.  Dr. View told us it would take about a day for the medicine to start killing the ticks.  Life will be so much easier without having to be on constant watch for the little invaders.  Whew.

Daku has been out with us in the van many times, and he knows a few landmarks.  When we turned onto our road and headed home, he began to get excited.  Today's photo is what he saw that told him where he was.

The recent storms at the end of last week left a lot of water in our rain-soaked area.  In fact, 17 provinces were affected.  Some areas encountered flash floods, landslides, and overflows of rivers.  In our immediate area we had some standing water, but nothing like the flooded highway north of us, or the hillside that slid onto the highway to Chiang Mai.  I guess the new storm drain system has helped the city avoid some major problems this year.  For the first time in many years, we didn't see any sand bags downtown in front of the shops.

There are many different kinds of birds that either live in, or visit our yard on a regular basis.  Today, while we were hanging out in the pool, we noticed a little bird that is about the size of a large hummingbird, and flies in little bursts of wing movement.  It also feeds on nectar and I wondered if it might be a distant cousin to our little Western friends.  Hmm.

Have a Great Week.

                 Peace,

                           Danny

"The only time you should ever look back,

is to see how far you've come."

~Unknown

Gettin' Funky, Thai Style 

www.flickr.com/photos/gratidudepics

www.lisamosesgallery.com