Bangkok Week 639

September 24, 2020

Arlo hosts a bunch of his friends for pizza and cake, to celebrate his birthday. He’s so lucky to have so many friends who want to come and celebrate with him!

Happy Friday wefie!

Arlo hosted his girlfriends over at his house this week.

While Arlo gives the camera a grin, Mia is sizing up his hair.

Can't help but feel it for herself.

Arlo is here to help accelerate Sally's lunch.

And sneaking up behind Mia to see how her lunch is going.

Arlo felt left out as the only one without a bow. So Mia kindly lent him hers.

A sweet moment gazing outside interrupted by a face poke.

Mia won't stand for any of it!

Arlo laughing at his guests. (What a host.)

Everyone wanting to come out of the pen!

Saturday morning starts with story time with Dad!

Arlo can only drink water by himself when he's lying down.

Checking out the BAMBI yard sale (in the rain).

Taking stock of his toys, and enjoying his maraca.

Big grin!

Snack time!

This is the most stable position for using the walker.

Still figuring out how to play with the toy from Granny.

Using his tunnel for the first time in a while. Arlo gets it now!

What's this? Wheel balloons!? (That just so happen to have vehicles, too.)

In Arlo's opinion, this is a great birthday!

All ready to have his friends over tomorrow!

Sunday morning, checking out all the junk on Mum's desk.

Arlo always wondered what's inside his toy box when the toys aren't there.

Getting ready for all his friends to come. And so excited, he doesn't want to nap!

His friends are here! Arlo's lucky to have so many friends.

And finally, the pizza is here, too!

Just pizza and friends.

Arlo loves chilling on laps. He doesn't seem to realize (or mind) that this one belongs to Rohan's dad.

Arlo: the life of the party.

Time to sing happy birthday! Lucky Arlo.

The 3-year-olds had a front row seat to the cake-cutting.

Happy 1st Birthday, Arlo!"

Pretty good carrot cake! (Although Arlo was too tired to appreciate it.)

Reading the story of Little Blue and Little Yellow, that Sally and Doug just gave Arlo.

And Mr. No-Nap finally succumbs to his heavy eyelids... and his guests haven't even left yet!

Seeing out his last friends. What a host!

The best shot we could get with his 1 balloon.

All rested and going for a walk - Mr. Longlegs.

Uh oh! Arlo's wondering what happened to Dad.

And time for a calming evening walk.

Peek-a-boo!

Arlo's new favorite game.

In a sudden burst of hunger, Arlo eats 3 whole bananas before bed.

Modeling his sweet smile.

What a pose: he's a natural.

Mum! Let me into your office, Mum! I have something important to contribute to the discussion!

Arlo feeds himself breakfast on Wednesday morning. Good thing we're going swimming soon!

Hurry hurry. We're late to class.

Jumping right into the action.

Arlo's not yet comfortable with this noodle.

But he likes walking along the underwater table.

All the kids loved standing right in front of the sprinkler.

Arlo's enjoying himself, as always! But he needs some hair clips...

Diving in!

Our cool apple model, doing his apple pose.

Look! Dad's got a polo shirt on, too.

Modeling his new salmon polo shirt: Mr. Preppy.

My collared boys.

Arlo is very excited about the 10 little rubber ducks!!

Picturesque sunset over Ekkamai.

Good night, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 638

September 17, 2020

Our little Master Arlo turns 1 year old this week!* Where has the time gone? It feels like only yesterday that we welcomed this little boy into our family. Happy Birthday, big buddy!

*And that’s a great excuse to go away for a 3-day weekend.

Arlo visits his friend Mia's house on Friday morning.

Showing Mia the wonderful wheels in her own book.

Hey, Sally's here now too!

One tired Arlo back at home. Those girls are exhausting!

Saturday morning, and we're off to the beach for a long weekend. And Arlo enjoys a long nap.

Our spacious home for the next 2 nights

Upgraded, to have an ocean view.

Arlo is pretty psyched by the towel elephant waiting to greet him.

First things first: what shall we have for lunch?

Arlo's just noticed that Dad's ring spins. Wow!

Pizza and baked spinach with cheese. Not a bad lunch!

Pizza is better when you can sit like a big person.

Quickly exploring the property.

Arlo can't wait for the sun to move a bit, so he can use the pool!

In the mean time, this kids club will suffice.

Where's Arlo?

A giant car!

Great wheels on this fire truck.

5pm! Swim time! (Has Arlo's enthusiasm stayed back in the room?)

Nope! Arlo's excited.

He's been waiting patiently all afternoon for this.

It's much more fun to swim without the ring.

Family shot!

Slowly getting used to sitting up here.

Another family shot.

Splash splash splash.

Splash! Splash! Splash!

Winding down with a quick dip in the kids' pool.

Early evening sky: facing south over the Gulf of Thailand.

Uh oh! Lion ate Ben for being too noisy!

A beautiful sunset, even though we're on the wrong side of the country.

Oh no! Arlo didn't quite make it to dinner.

Mum will just have to eat without Arlo.

And finish his food, if he's not awake to have it!

Next morning! Schooling dad over breakfast.

Mwah! Happy Sunday! This boy slept well.

Getting in a morning swim before it gets too hot.

More open to using the ring today.

Arlo waiting patiently for something to happen. But what?

Oh! Here comes Dad!

That's a big splash, Dad!

He nailed the landing! A perfect 10 for Dad!

Arlo found that interesting.

Back where the pool meets the sea.

Family shot, again.

We almost had the pool to ourselves!

Arlo still prefers to swim without the ring.

Arlo's first time really seeing the sea. And boy! Look at those waves!

Another wave!

Arlo can't wait to touch the waves.

Going to check out the waves.

Another wave!

More waves!

Wait a minute...

Happy to sit on the sand, but not so sure about walking on it yet.

Well, that was a hit.

We'll be back later, when it's less hot.

Another dip in the kids' pool.

Dad! Stop it! Not in public!

Short detour to the playground. It wasn't as fun as it looked from the pool.

Back in the kids' pool.

Hi Dad!

This pool's fine, but Arlo prefers the lagoon pool.

Mr. Smiley!

He has a big, sweet kiss for the boy in the mirror - who also made the trip down to Rayong!

Creeping up behind Mum.

Hi Mum!

Spending the peak sun hours in the kids club again.

Which is a great idea, because there are so many wheels.

Wheels on wheels! Doubly great!

Examining the fire truck, and sporting a new 'do.

Back in the room, Arlo gets started on his afternoon snack: an apple.

Arlo really likes apples!

In fact, the whole afternoon could revolve around this apple.

Just here, enjoying my apple, guys.

Apple digested, it's time for one last late-afternoon swim.

Practicing our back stroke.

Flying with dad!

Arlo is cautiously having fun.

Arlo likes swimming with Dad!

Yay!

Back on the edge. Great view!

Who knew. You can play the tongue-grabbing game in the pool, too!

Great, overcast day. Good for swimming!

Requisite family shot!

This vantage point provides a great view of... the waves! Why aren't we there?

Finally!

How did this water get so deep?

Wave!

More bubbly water.

This is fun!

Wave! Wave! Wave!

Oh. And Arlo finally gets a mouth full of sea water. Suddenly, Arlo is rethinking these waves...

Verdict: it's a small trade-off. The waves are still good.

This was fun, guys!

One family photo in the water.

And Arlo's lost interest in the waves, and instead become fascinated by the muddy sand.

The sea-front pool, which we didn't use.

Cheers! Dinner at the bar tonight, since we had 2 drink vouchers to use up.

Arlo enjoyed the bar. It was spacious, and had comfy couches.

Good morning! Who's the big boy turning 1 today!?

Arlo's not sure what to do with this envelope.

What a nice card!

Getting in one last swim before we head back to Bangkok.

Practicing with Dad.

Still enjoying the water, despite the sun.

Heading to the end of the pool.

Arlo, kick kick kick.

Whee!

Last family shot of the trip!

Honk!

This time, we really did have the pool to ourselves!

Singing Happy Birthday to Arlo at 9:45! Happy Birthday, big boy!

And big boy is pooped for his trip back to Bangkok.

Lucky Arlo had a present waiting for him, from P'Noi and P'Natalie.

Maracas! And two puzzles! How lucky Arlo is!

Shake shake shake! The maracas are a hit!

Here he is: the 12-month boy! Clearly still a monkey at heart.

12 months: what a journey!

Taking the time to inspect Dad's work of art, and all 12 wheels.

Wow! Arlo! You're so lucky, look at what your Granny, Grandpa, Great Auntie Chris and Auntie Erika sent you!

Learning about Hippoposites.

And learning how to use a hammer.

Last up for Arlo's special day: his cake! (But not sure what this long song is about.)

Mum, I want that blue thing!

Huh. This blue macaroon is pretty good.

Deeee-lish!

I don't need that cake thing. I'll just have this blue thing.

Oh. I was wrong. Give. Me. More. Cake.!

Licking every last bit of cake off his hands. Arlo's never been so enthusiastic with a food before!

Tuesday morning, playing with his Arlo book from Bonnie and Bob.

Arlo's not sure about this place! Whenever we come to the hospital, there are fun toys... but he has some negative associations too.

You want me to do what?

Yeah right, Mum. I'm good sitting right here.

Cooking a barbecue for Dad.

Mum cooks, and Arlo cleans. (Thanks, Arlo!)

Getting a good look at the time.

How many adults does it take to measure one Arlo?

Arlo survived his 2 shots. He's recuperating with his alphabet cards.

New morning, new day. In fact, it's Wednesday. You know what that means?

More swimming!

Arlo's still not a fan of the noodle. Requires too much holding on.

He'd rather just play with the toys.

There was a camera crew there, filming for a piece in a local magazine.

A ball!

And a fish!

Taking photos before we wrap up class.

What a long and busy week! Birthday boy, signing off until next week!

Bangkok Week 637

September 10, 2020

We’re fortunate to have another 4-day weekend! And Arlo’s schedule was packed!

Starting this long weekend on the right foot: with dad and a story!

Quick refresh of Arlo's portrait for some documents: it's much, much, much easier now!

Celebrating "Songkran" with lunch at Greyhound.

Look at that neat drawing on the wall!

Quality time with Dad.

And this is why Arlo prefers hanging out with Dad. (Just trying on some shower accessories at Daiso.)

Mission accomplished! Extricating a sleeping Arlo from the car and relocating him... without waking him up.

Refreshed, and ready to play some more. Quick call to his Yaa.

I think Arlo has enough toys.

Quick stop at EmQuartier on our way to the park.

Ooh, what colorful ribbons. (These have been up since pre-COVID...)

The playground at the park is for kids 1 year and older. We snuck Arlo in anyway.

He wasn't thrilled. "Guys, I think we're breaking the rules!"

Arlo, that's a dead give-away.

Trying on the tunnel for size.

This is more Arlo's speed, but unfortunately, we forgot the mat in the car.

He's comfortable when sitting on people...

...but miserable when made to sit directly on the prickly grass!

Wonder what Arlo sees. Probably not a wheel up there.

He was fascinated by the volleyball and takraw games.

And the skateboarders are pretty neat, too. (Or maybe just their skateboards.)

Saturday morning! Someone's all spiffy and ready for his playgroup.

It's hosted at a nursery school in Ekkamai 6 (the BigC soi).

Arlo made a bee-line for the manly car.

Hey, this car has a wheel inside, too.

Checking out the rear wheels.

And totally bored when dropped into the driver's seat.

Hey! Guys! A parking garage! That must mean there are cars nearby.

Arlo found one of his favorite books, in board format.

OHMYGOODNESS. Stop the presses. Wheels!

Bonus. Someone put cars on the table.

Time to play at the water table.

Snack break!

And circle time before leaving.

Plink plink plink! Back at home, Arlo's figured out that he can play his piano while standing if he puts it on the couch.

Practicing his standing: jutting out your bum just a bit is essential to maintaining balance.

Seeing eye-to-eye with Dad.

Quick trip to Donki. There's a group of food trucks parked there now.

Arlo found what he came for.

Sunday morning: pucker up!

Group shot.

My cutiepie!

Arlo and his birthday buddy, Addison, who turns 1 just a few days before Arlo does.

Enjoying the birthday celebrations from a new vantage point.

Mum's birthday hat.

Doing a whirlwind tour of Ari while we're in the 'hood.

Dad and Arlo read Arlo's newest book. ABC of Canada! (C is for Calgary Stampede - it's very local.)

Hanging out in our urban garden.

Arlo heads home from the veggie store with his big purchase.

Monday! The long weekend is still going strong! Dad tries to read Arlo a new book.

Having pizza for lunch: Arlo's in seventh heaven.

Arlo can't get enough pizza!

A visit to Kidzoona, which is free for Arlo until he turns 1. Quick, better go!

Primary entertainment, of course.

Brief stop at the police.

Ball pit. Too many balls to possibly taste them all.

Oh my goodness. A race track. Gotta push this trike around it!

And a shopping cart!

Things are a little more Arlo's speed in this baby corner.

Ooh, a climbing wall.

Arlo can tackle the mini stairs no problem.

And he even figured out how to turn and go down the slide properly!

Oh look, another ball pit.

Shake shake shake. These toys are fun.

Shake that rattle, Arlo!

Like Father, like Son.

Last indulgence for the long weekend: Dairy Queen.

Brain freeze!

Are you sure, Dad? I can have some more?

THIS IS GREAT! I LOVE ICE CREAM!

We had a great long weekend together!

Swimming already!?

Another full class.

Arlo's wondering, why am I the only one getting wet?

Grabbing a sticker from the board. (Arlo could play here fore the next 30 minutes.)

Hi Dad!

Practicing our jumping.

Noodle time! Arlo lasted longer this time than last time.

What a little fish he is.

One last jump, then it's time to go.

Arlo's 3rd hand makes its appearance for snack time.

Reading our vehicle ABCs together. Until next time!

Bangkok Week 636

September 3, 2020

Wow! It’s September already! Lucky Arlo gets to ring in his birthday month by spending a long weekend in Trad, with his Puu, Yaa, and Aa Top! And many, many more people for that matter.

Friday night, and it's pouring rain. The soi is flooded. Uh oh!

Finishing his dinner while checking out the floodwaters.

Excited for Saturday morning! Although Arlo has no idea what's in store for him soon!

A loooong drive to Trat! (And he's wondering why his neck is sore.)

Pit stop at Tesco Klaeng. (Arlo sees so many wheels out the window!)

Wow! Did you know that we have a giant wheel in our own car!?

Finally, we make it! And Arlo's Uncle Top has some toys waiting for him.

Arlo enjoys zooming around the front of the house in his airplane.

Keeping his distance at first.

Checking out his Puu's tuk tuk. What great wheels it has.

Slowly warming up to his Yaa.

Getting warmer.

They must be good people. They have big water bottles!

Floor time!

Playing on the bed in the cool bedroom.

What a great AC remote.

And an Arlo-sized door.

Woah! What's this!?

It's looking at me!

Unlike Arlo, Ngern likes to sleep on his back.

As does Tong! It runs in the family!

Sunday morning! Time for coffee!

Breakfast for Arlo. Pumpkin and eggs, that Yaa just made!

Posing for photos with his Aa Top.

"Wait, whose lap am I in?"

And saying good-night to Granny and Grandpa in Toronto.

Arlo showing his cards: he can hold the cup himself!

Playing with ice for the first time. It's cold!

Looking at things with Puu.

The spinning soda cans are a real hit.

Patiently waiting for the guests to arrive.

And here they are! And off goes Arlo!

Taking in all the new faces.

Stranger danger seems to have worn off.

Minute 1 of the ceremony: sitting patiently.

Minute 2: starting to wonder what we're doing here.

Minute 5: trying out mum's lap. She's doing that funny thing with her hands, too.

Minute 10: Arlo gives up.

Having fun with his Yaa while the monks have their lunch.

Raise your hands if your name is Arlo!

Arlo was very patient while being passed around.

The guests are gone, and everyone is pooped! Time to rest!

Trip to the market in the late afternoon.

After meeting so many new people today, Arlo's feeling adventurous. Poke the paw!

And grab the nose!

And steal Puu's watch!

Bonding over some manly things: wheels.

Yay, Arlo! Stand stand stand!

Oh no! Monday morning already.

How come mum is cudding with that furry thing?

Enjoying the cool morning air with his Yaa.

Spoiling him by letting him play with the fish.

Arlo's first fishing trip!

Having a chat.

Family shot.

And one more with Aa Top, this time.

Ouch. Someone's neck is going to be sore soon!

Stormy skies! We drove through patches of rain along the entire route back.

Showing off his cool new t-shirt from his Aa Top and Yaa.

Yay! Swimming Wednesday!

Arlo can't contain his excitement.

Time to get down to business.

Warming up.

And practicing standing in the water.

Practicing kicking on our backs.

And swimming back to the side of the pool.

Arlo crawled across the table to get a better look at the 0 on mum's nose.

Trying on his automobile overalls - they still fit.

K. Noi is taking Arlo up for a play date with his girlfriends!

Definitely up-to-no-good!

And spotted by Dad while out.

Yum yum! No better way to start a long-weekend.

Maple glaze! Enjoy and savor this until next week!

Bangkok Week 635

August 27, 2020

Mr. Sociable’s diary was fully booked this week! No wonder he’s exhausted now! (Lucky Arlo to have so many nice friends!)

Hello! It's another week!

Arlo's starting his busy weekend with a playdate at HarborLand.

Yay, Yay, Yay!

In no time, Arlo found the wheels.

This walker is okay...

... and sure, there are some spinning gears ...

...but *here* is the best part!

Sharing the walker with his friend.

Only 1 day apart; don't they look like twins?

Arlo says, "No Erin, let me show you how to play with a wheel properly."

A peace treaty: we can each play with different sides of this ride-along bug.

And, that didn't last long.

Nap-deprived Arlo is getting some words from Dad.

Trying to look innocent.

Well, we tried to take a photo altogether.

After his nap, Arlo was all smiles again.

Enjoying a book at home with dad.

Watching the rain come down. A wet Saturday afternoon.

Ooh! Lucky Arlo scored a great deal on his rocking moose! Sizing it up.

Hasn't quite figured out what it's for, but this nose ring is pretty cool.

Mum demonstrates; Arlo is not impressed.

Saturday night: another Indian feast! Yum!

Happy Sunday, everyone!

Mum's last day using this gym - this deserves a photo.

Lunch with Arlo's partner-in-crime, Sally.

Guilty and guiltier!

And no busy weekend is complete without a splash in the pool.

This is fun!

Carefully studying how the water works.

Splash splash splash.

Even more splash!

Arlo can barely contain his excitement.

And now it's time for some kicks!

Kick kick kick!

Up next: Arlo's rendition of the traditional Mongolian Bowl Dance.

Very difficult to differentiate from the real thing.

This has been fun!

Aww, is it over already!?

Always pushing boundaries, Arlo prefers to continue his play in diaper only.

Look at me, hands-free!

Yum yum, Dad's apple is better than Arlo's own apple.

Monday morning, had to run some errands near CentralWorld.

Which is a good excuse to pop into the world-famous new Apple Store.

It looks just like the promo videos make it out to look.

The wooden core.

And the single-piece metal stairs.

Wefie!

Huh, says Arlo. This book should be relevant to me.

Better start reading now; it's a long one.

Do I know you? You look familiar.

Tuesday at Antique Cafe! Where Arlo ran into his old friend Quinn.

Reading a book together.

And deciding what he's going to have with his coffee.

On Thursday, Arlo reciprocates, and hosts his friend Sally for the morning.

They both enjoyed every single toy in the house!

Shake those rattles!

Arlo the host: enjoying himself in a corner with his wheels.

Showing off his new moose. Sally gets it!

Everyone loves Brown Bear!

To cap off a wonderful week, it's Puu in Bangkok!

That's all, folks! See you next week!

Bangkok Week 634

August 20, 2020

Our little monkey is not so little anymore: he completes his 11th month this week! He has another friend’s birthday party. And he starts a new swimming class, in a new level!

Hello and welcome to another week! And guess what?

Master Arlo turns 11 months today!

Uh oh! Only one month left in this little monkey's first year! How did that happen?

Outtake: "Arlo, where's the fan?"

Outtake: ooh, look at these nice flowers Dad made!

Rainy end-of-birthday walk around the neighborhood.

Wondering where his stroller is.

Mr. Bashful welcomes the weekend.

Wefie at the couch (one of Arlo's favorite places to stand).

Standing tall, and modeling one of his new 18-month onesies.

Lots of weekend traffic to watch!

Arlo and Dad are good sports again, as Mum gets in her gym time.

Patiently waiting for Mum in the gym lounge.

These bars are excellent to lean on while standing!

Snack break!

Back at home, and enjoying an afternoon story.

Aha! Arlo has finally figured out how to use his walker for stability.

Arlo likes all books. Including the kind that only has words.

Funny faces!

Off to Donki to check out the Farmer's Market.

Our Saturday night feast this week is spicy Indian, from -- you guessed it -- Spicy by Nature.

Happy Sunday!

Keeping a watchful eye on the passers-by.

There's a big, toothy smile!

Weekly weigh-in!

Snack break. And that third hand makes its appearance.

Yum yum! Mulberry yoghurt!

The pinnacle of the weekend: Arlo's friend Alba's first birthday party!

Running away from the birthday girl.

Happy Birthday!

That's right: what a polite guest. Licking all the birthday girl's balls.

His first encounter with balloons in the wild.

Mr Sociable: he'd rather play with the guests' stroller wheels.

Uh oh! Someone's getting tired!

And out for a 5pm nap.

Great view of the tall Millenium Residence towers!

Giving William a talking-to: explaining what Monday is.

Playing with his prize from the party.

Mr. Serious, at his watch post.

That's one way to read a book.

All things Canada: cherries and avocados...?

It's that time of the year again: immigration photos season!

This year, we have a new star in all our family photos!

Trying to win us over with his funny face.

Honk!

Yay! Swimming again!

New term, new class: Arlo's with the big kids in the 12-18 month group this time.

Um, Arlo. If you're going to be in the big kid's class, you have to follow the instructions.

He's enjoying himself!

Oh no! A new challenge! Stand on the ledge, and fall in!

Okay, Arlo is a pro at falling.

We can do this big-boys class! Until next week!

Bangkok Week 633

August 13, 2020

Arlo had another busy week! He explored a new play area (with a killer ball pit) and even got his very own swimming pool! Lucky boy!

Welcome to another Friday!

Mum and Dad went out for lunch at a nearby burger place.

It was surprisingly busy at lunch time.

Delicious veggie burger!

This pretty much sums up our weekend mornings, when Arlo wakes up reliably before 7.

Can we start the day yet?

Putting on his cute face.

Lucky Arlo is going to go have some fun with Dad while Mum goes to the gym.

Giant ball pit at Kidzoona Gateway Ekkamai.

Arlo sizes up the big girl - showing off how she can already walk.

These balls are the perfect size and weight for Arlo.

Why climb up the net when you can eat it instead?

Still not sure about this place.

Well, at least this alligator with wheels is fun.

Giving the snail a little push.

This play table is at a perfect height.

Uh oh! Traffic jam.

Where would you like to go?

Ah, this is much better. This is what cars are for.

Looking longingly at the boy who can walk around on 2 feet.

Yay! Reunited at last.

Arlo's pooped from his playventure though. Time for a 1-hour nap!

Next stop: a hippy dippy market in Ekkamai 6.

On the way, we passed Ms. Maria & Mr. Singh, one of Gaggan's latest ventures.

Here we are, a hippy dippy market at a newly opened space in Ekkamai 6.

It lives up to its hippy hype!

We bought 1/2 a kilo of spicy pickles. Arlo's not impressed.

Posing with a mural before we leave.

Very worried about the green dot on Dad's sleeve. Must investigate.

It's Tibetan for dinner! That must mean it's Saturday night!

Ooh, Pancake Sunday!

Arlo's happy.

Okay, hurry up lady. Serve me the rest! (He finished that whole pancake.)

Playing with his roller coaster. He finally knows how to move the beads!

Big smile!

Practically twins!

Monday morning: Dad left early, so it's just the two of us.

Looking cute, again.

Really having a go at this Granny Smith apple. (The apple doesn't stand a chance.)

Hey hey heeeeey! It's a holidaaaaay!

In fact, it's Mother's Day! Happy Mum's Day, Mum!

Arlo ordered Mum a very special breakfast, fresh out of the oven.

Arlo wishing his Yaa a Happy Mother's Day - and showing off his new standing skillz at the same time.

More drain goodness on the balcony.

Laundry basket is full again! Better go do another wash.

Arlo is not impressed.

Quick trip down to Decathalon to pick up some things.

Learning how to play darts.

Then Arlo took mum to Greyhound for lunch.

But by that time, Arlo was too tired and would rather be home.

He found a new window to look out. It even comes with a convenient handle.

Caught red-handed!

Trying out Arlo's new purchase!

Arlo's own personal swimming pool! Lucky Arlo!

He's very intrigued by the stacking cup waterfall.

The cups are fun toy... as are the leaves on the plants.

You! Quit taking photos!

Dad's dutifully watering Arlo, to help him grow faster.

Enjoying themselves.

Yay! Arlo can play in the water and pick the leaves.

One final round of splash-splash-splash!

Aww. Is it over already?

Oh boy! Arlo's first time trying (chocolate) ice cream! Initial verdict: too cold!

Verdict revised a few minutes later: this really is delicious!

Thursday morning, practicing some "walking".

That's all, folks! See you next time!

Bangkok Week 632

August 6, 2020

A busy weekend for Arlo: lots of visitors!

What?! It's another week? Oh, hi guys!

Arlo climbs up anything and anyone.

Trying to sneak out the door.

Yum. The hard metal frame of the pack-and-play feels great on the teeth.

Standing tall. But still.

The wheels on the car go round-and-round.

Saturday morning. Arlo's not ready to start the weekend.

The drain cover is excellent. It spins!

Time to explore Ekkamai with Dad, while mum goes to the gym.

Off the go, to the science center.

Looks like they ended up shopping in the mall, instead!

We finally popped up to the ice rink in Major Ekkamai. It's a pretty decent size, actually. (And this is only 1 of 2 rinks.)

Arlo, dutifully reporting for his weigh-in on Sunday morning.

And taking stock of all his toys, to make sure none disappeared overnight.

Nibbling on his giraffe, and pleased to see that everything is still here.

Chaos ensues when It and At come over for a visit - first time since Christmas.

All the toys made an appearance! Arlo felt it was safest to hide in his pack-and-play.

Almost the same height as At.

Meanwhile, a tense game of scrabble plays out at the dining table.

Pizza Saturday!

Sunday morning! Getting ready for a special breakfast guest.

It's uncle Simon!

Arlo hasn't seen Uncle Simon on this side of the COVID crisis.

Are you up there, Uncle Simon?

Exchanging laughs, and enjoying fresh buttery croissants.

Uh oh! Arlo and Dad are off on another mission while mum does her run.

Mission: name all the animals in Miniso.

Sunday means Noodle Lunch!

And that ended pretty much as expected.

Getting ready to go to Arlo's first friend's 1st birthday party.

Tired after the party, and in no mood for photos.

Monday morning: giving his teeth a massage.

Singing some warm-up songs. Arlo loves Head and Shoulders, Knees and Toes.

Smiles! Stripey Monday!

Finally putting up Arlo's growth tree.

Arlo's not interested in getting measured, but he is interested in the apples!

Standing watch at his window.

Again trying to slink out the door.

Selfie of smiles.

Mr. Manners, showing off his third arm.

Cool Joe Fresh, seeing what he's missing on the other side of the wall.

Arlo shows off his latest find: his tongue. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 631

July 30, 2020

Arlo enjoys a jam-packed four day weekend! I suppose Mum & Dad did, too!

Hello, and welcome to a new week! Mum let Arlo play with a clothes pin to keep himself entertained.

Getting in closer to the camera, to show off his fringe.

Why it's another strips Friday!

Saying good bye to K. Noi on Friday night, before the long weekend.

Arlo finishes his dinner by savoring every bite of the broccoli.

Saturday morning! Four-day weekend! Yay!

Having a chat with Penguin 2.

Going to a "co-playing space" in a community mall in Thonglor to meet one of Arlo's friends.

Yes! This is Arlo's motto! 😅

They had lots of fun new toys to play with (read: eat), like this ice cream!

And this walker.

Everyone is enamored by the wheels on the bus! (Because they go round-and-round!)

Arlo the musician, giving the maracas a good shake shake shake!

Found the winning attraction! The ball pit!

Up to his eyes in balls. Literally.

Arlo can't believe his luck. In fact, he's overwhelmed.

And even better - a slide right into the balls!

Woah!

Break time! Snack time!

Arlo's having a great time.

Taking a bit of a rest on the giant soft Brown bear.

Having a good laugh with dad. It's a great opportunity to inspect Arlo's chompers.

New day, new fun awaits.

Arlo starts by inventorying all his books.

Eating an entire whole banana by himself.

Practicing his standing by the window -- one of his favorite places to stand.

Inspecting his new walker. He's not sure yet what to do with it.

Oh no! Where's Mum going?

Mum! Take me to the gym too, Mum!

Arlo stays home to play with (eat) his cars, instead.

A late-afternoon get-together with Arlo's friends. And lucky for him, they have a condo with a kiddie pool!

Arlo's distracted by the fancy driving car toy that another family has.

Still distracted by the giant car. At least he doesn't realize how chilly the water is!

Finally, practicing his kicks.

Arlo and Sally show off their special 'high chairs'.

"Arlo did it!"

In return, Arlo fixes Sally's hair.

Monday morning! We're visiting the Sea Life aquarium in the basement of Paragon.

Arlo seems interested in the fish.

Wow, that's a big crab. A Giant Spider Crab! (The kind they serve at the Japanese restaurant around the corner from our house?)

None of us had ever seen vertical fish like these before!

More clown fish - which Arlo needs to point out with his toes.

Two playful otters.

And a giant fish that could eat Arlo in a single gulp.

Arlo loves penguins. But this is his first time seeing them in real life! African penguins.

The penguins seemed content enough, despite living underground...

Waving as a giant turtle does a fly-by.

Wow! That is a big aquarium tank!

Uh oh! Guess what's coming next!

The giant shark tunnel!

Actually, it was pretty impressive. Definitely the highlight of the aquarium.

Umm. Shark!

More sharks!

Family shot with the sharks!

Arlo's not impressed. He's already seen lots of fish today.

There's stadium seating to watch all the fish in the giant tank.

Quite mesmerizing.

Last exhibit: the Gentoo Penguins.

These guys also seemed to be enjoying themselves, despite their living conditions.

They seemed to be interacting with the visitors.

Arlo was intrigued.

Bye-bye! Please come again!

Stopping for snack time, before heading home.

What? Shopping? Can't we just go back?

Poor Arlo, being used as a photo prop, when all he wants to do is go home and sleep.

Out like a light, not a minute after leaving the mall.

Back home and refreshed; time to do some people-watching!

Looking handsome.

Hey! This is fun!

Uh oh! Houston, we have a problem! A little boy flashing all the tea-goers.

Eager to see what all is going on outside his play area.

Sigh. Eating dinner is tiring.

Dad, showing off his fancy beer mug!

Tuesday morning; the long weekend is still going!

Arlo can't believe his luck!

What fun activities are we going to do today, guys?

First activity: a quick stop at Uncle Kiat and Auntie Jaa's house.

Next stop: IKEA! Arlo's first time. He's overwhelmed.

Then we had a big of an accident with a roll of cookies which, needless to say, we ended up purchasing.

Looking longingly at the lucky boy in the mirror covered in chocolate cookie crumbs.

Snack break! Where Arlo can only focus on one thing.

This nifty pack of cars! So many wheels!

Eyeing his beautiful new police car, with so many delicious round wheels.

And there it goes. Right where it belongs.

Uh oh! Look what we woke up to on Wednesday morning!

Arlo's last swimming class of the term -- it was a full one!

Arlo got lots of practice jumping off the edge of the table into the water.

And he swam to fetch the ball many times.

This green ball is more interesting. The pink one is old hat.

No lesson is complete without some back stroke time.

Saying good-bye to all his swimming friends.

Thursday fun with K. Noi! Off to a music session.

Arlo was rockin' his maracas. (He had good practice on Saturday.)

Back at home, standing watch at his window.

Doing some stretches: standing can be tiring on the legs!

Good bye, my friends! See you next week!

Bangkok Week 630

July 23, 2020

Arlo has a busy weekend full of play! How tiring!

Happy Friday Stripes, everyone!

Someone came and crashed our bed on Saturday morning. I thought we agreed to sleep in?

Reading to himself about big winter machines.

Trying a big-kids playgroup for the first time.

Warming up: scoping out the joint.

Trying on the first car for size.

And the water table.

Okay, the water table is pretty fun.

Then trying on a covered car for size.

Woah! Check out the roof!

Zooming around... but stopping periodically when his feet got dragged underneath.

Not so sure about this play set.

At least it's safe from all the runners up here!

And coming down via the slide.

Resting to chat with dad.

This car is perfect for Arlo. There's a place to rest his feet...

... and a delicious steering wheel.

Yup. Good sturdy boot in the front, too!

Before we head out, snack time to refuel!

Sitting at a table, on a chair, just like a big boy.

Zonk. Out like a light, 20 seconds after we left the nursery.

Happy Sunday morning!

Providing commentary on the neighborhood.

Meeting his friend, P'Kate, for the first time in a while... and offering his foot to shake.

Arlo hasn't seen P'Kate since the Christmas party.

Arlo was very well-behaved over lunch. But where did this third hand come from?

Playing outside after lunch.

Keeping watch over the play set.

Back at home, P'Kate enjoys all of Arlo's toys.

Arlo watches patiently.

Showing P'Kate his airplane.

She helps him make sure it's in good working order.

An enraptured audience, listening to the story of Brown Bear.

Storytime!

This book is more interesting when other people are interested in it, too.

Later, we visited the Ekkamai Farmer's Market spin-off, now at nearby Donki Mall.

Spotted at the used book stall: the same series of craft books we had at the Cottage!

It's always fun to shop at Donki; what will you find?

It's Marimekko Monday!

And fast-forward to swimming Wednesday!

Arlo's always interested in what the other kids are doing.

Getting ready to fall forward into the water.

Fan! Arlo sees a fan!

Let's just play with these balls for the rest of the lesson.

Pooped... and the lesson's not even over yet!

Enjoying his noodles! See you next week!

Bangkok Week 629

July 16, 2020

Our big boy with four teeth turns 10 months this week! But he wasn’t so pleased to enter the double-digits…

Happy Friday! Arlo has figured out the practical way to use his new tunnel.

Special Friday lunch out!

Arlo likes eating at the adult table.

Selfie Saturday, feet and all!

Wait a minute. If Mum's taking this photo, then who am I strapped to?

Lounging around with Dad, while Mum's at the gym.

Arlo told himself another hoot of a joke.

Arlo, lounging around in his hoop skirt.

This is not a bad place to hide toys, either.

Celebrating the weekend with Indian delivery from our friends at Spicy by Nature.

Arlo is thrilled to be having his nails trimmed. As always.

Fun new pasta for Arlo's meals!

What a peaceful afternoon at the park, father and son.

Looking Dad in the eyes.

Ooh! Keys!

Meh. It's just Mum's lap.

Okay, at least I have my keys.

"Can I please join your conversation too, Dad?"

The boys...

... bird-watching.

Posing with the iconic pyramid in Benjasiri Park.

And Arlo takes flight!

On Tuesday, Arlo is in no mood whatsoever to celebrate his 10th month.

Nor is he in the mood to sit in his chair, when there's a glowing iPad right there next to him.

How fast are 10 months!?!

Okay, now he's in the mood. Happy double-digits, buddy!

And Arlo's favorite day of the week: swimming Wednesdays!

Warming up while the big kids' class winds down.

Practicing floating on our back.

Arlo and his ill-fitting toupee.

So he went for the mafia look instead.

Lunch time. Wait, where did this 3rd hand come from?

Mr. Smiley.

Riding his trike. Using power-assist.

And having a morning chat with William.

Lounging around, and showing off his spiffy new watermelon shorts.

Arlo's figured out how to open the roof, and take out (and put back?) the blocks.

The blue cylinder is still his fave. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 628

July 9, 2020

It’s a long weekend in Thailand, and we’re off to Hua Hin. Lucky Arlo gets to stay at two beautiful resorts, with wonderful swimming pools! Fun!

It's Friday morning, and we're off on another road trip. Lucky Arlo! Where to, this time?

Hua Hin! We're staying for 3 nights: this first night at the Hyatt Regency.

It's a beautiful property. Lots of space, and greenery. Too bad it was overcast (and rainy) most of the time!

Arlo's thrilled to be here.

They have a huge network of lagoons and pools, all connected. See the water slide on the right?

One of the main open swim areas.

A rope bridge, covered in tamarind that has just fallen from the tree overhead!

Their artificial beach, with the "real" beach in the background.

Here's the beach, and the Gulf of Thailand.

Checking out our room. Arlo's bed gets his stamp of approval!

Arlo's happy to hang out in this pack-and-play all afternoon.

But Mum has other plans for him.

Down to hang out at the Kids Club, while we wait for Dad to go get dinner.

Exploring this space - which is clearly for play.

"Okay. I could dig this rocking giraffe."

Uh oh! Swim time! Let's warm up in the kiddie pool.

Why, Arlo likes it after all.

Dipping his face into the water. That's his new favorite move.

And trying out that social distancing ring that Mum & Dad bought last week.

Cheese!

Next, an upgrade to the big pool!

Two ants in a giant lagoon.

With our picturesque backdrop. Arlo's having fun!

Uh oh! The glasses thief came with us from Bangkok!

Father and son. Under the sun. Oh wait, nope.

What's this? Sand? It's edible, right?

Hmm. Nope. Most definitely not edible.

After a fun afternoon, it's dinner time. We were the only diners inside the hotel restaurant!

Arlo's the boss of this joint.

Saturday morning, Arlo's firing up the laptop to call Granny and Grandpa.

Wow. Lucky Arlo. What a nice, big remote he found.

Papaya for breakfast at the buffet. That's novel.

Nope. Arlo the boss prefers his apple.

Getting in another swim before we have to check out.

Off we go! Around the lagoons.

Swimming through the lagoons, that pass in front of many guest rooms.

Having fun, despite the drizzle.

Time for water. (As if we didn't just drink enough of the pool.)

Did we mention it was overcast skies?

Arlo's first time on the beach!

Group shot. (Get me out of here, Arlo says.)

We're spending the next 2 nights just up the road, at the Hua Hin Mariott Resort & Spa.

It's a much newer hotel (opened within the last ~4 years?) and you can tell!

Our neighbor, a snail, working his way up (and over?) the giant leaf.

Quick stop to check out this kids' club.

Arlo does some cooking, and concludes that the other kids' club was more his speed.

But we can't fault this hotel for its kids' water park!

Woah! Check out all these water jets!

So many water jets to try and grab.

Woah!

This is impossible!

Even more jets; guys, this is fun!

And a water mushroom.

And a tiny pool that's perfect for Arlo.

Splash splash!

He's ready to swim! Better upgrade to the big pool then.

Time for the family pool.

This is fun!

Doing his signature face dip.

Arlo could swim all afternoon!

Swimming with Dad for the first time!

Look! We found a fish in the pool!

Practicing his backstroke and kicks.

Arlo's so tall!

Yay, this is fun!

Dad's a good swim partner, too.

After another long and tiring afternoon, we're off to dinner at a nearby vegetarian restaurant. Look at the durian in the downtown sidewalks.

Yum - pulled "pork" burger. But Arlo's got his eye on the fry.

Sunday morning is looking good! This is the weather we came for!

And a sunny view the other way, from our balcony.

The two boys, doing some Sunday morning people-watching.

Time for our morning swim! Off on a loop around the property.

Arlo's finally getting used to this social distancing ring. And the hat is not so bad, either.

Hey look! Another snail friend.

Wowee! Jacuzzi jets!

And a water tunnel! How awesome!

Having fun in the sun!

Back in the big pool.

Group shot!

We couldn't come out to swim without doing a detour through the water jets.

It's worth it!

Popping down to the beach while the tide is out.

Too sunny to stay here! We'll have to come back much later in the day!

Oh boy! Arlo's pooped from all that swimming.

Off to lunch at a nearby mall.

We dined at Sizzler, for it's unlimited salad bar - complete with new standards for the "new norms".

Arlo loved it! Broccoli, pumpkin, quail eggs - so much he could feed himself!

"We should have lunch here everyday, guys!"

Spotted at a nearby Family Mart: entire watermelon for sale!

The two boys, doing some more people-watching.

What a handsome duo.

Powering up before our next round of swimming.

"Am I eating this the right way, Dad?"

Here we go again! Another loop around the pool.

Excited by what he sees!

The water curtain! Arlo loves the water curtain!

And yay! More of these water shooters.

"Let's go again, mum!"

Down at the beach again; the tide has come up.

And all the resident horses are waiting for tourists to take for a ride.

"Woah! Guys! Do you see those giant dogs??"

Very pleased by the horses.

Arlo and Mum.

Trying to get a family shot, here.

This is the best we could do.

Arlo vs. Sand: the second edition.

Taking the hotel shuttle home from dinner. Arlo's confused.

Sunset over the hotel.

Sunset over Hua Hin.

Yay, it's a holiday Monday!

Arlo's pretending he doesn't have to go home today. Life is good with this pack-and-play, and the pools.

Family portrait!

Oh hey! The boy in the mirror came to Hua Hin, too. What a coincidence.

Kisses for the boy!

Reading one of Arlo's favorite books, while Mum gets ready for the swim.

Arlo loves Penguin!

One last loop around the hotel pool!

What's this? Arlo sees something that looks fun.

The bubble zone!!!

That was fun! What's next?

More water jets!

These are nice, too.

Oh oh oh! But nothing can beat...

... the water curtain!

Yay! The water curtain! Let's do the water curtain again, guys!

Looking back toward the water curtain. How about just one more time?

And one final play in the water fountains.

Still so many jets!

Arlo still hasn't managed to catch them. I guess we'll just have to stay longer.

And one last swim in the big pool.

This is fun, Mum!

Yay! Swimming!

And Arlo's practicing his flying, too!

Up up and away!

Final farewell to Hua Hin.

All our stuff, waiting for our car. We pack light!

Arlo's entertainment for the 3.5-hour drive back to Bangkok.

And finally. A nap.

Back to reality, Arlo! At least he's excited to see all his friends again.

And finally! Some proper finger food!

Reading with K. Noi on Tuesday morning.

What's this? Mum found Arlo yet another new toy!

Pop! Now it's Arlo's turn to try the tunnel.

A day later, Arlo works up the courage.

And through he goes!

Lucky Arlo! He didn't have to wait long before his Wednesday swimming lesson!

A quick visit to the hospital, for Arlo's dermatologist follow-up.

All clear! And hopefully, no need to come back.

Looking out the window on Thursday. Good bye, and see you soon!

Bangkok Week 627

July 2, 2020

Lucky Arlo goes to Harborland for the first time - what a fun place!

Arlo just got some new goodies for his upcoming beach trip. Like this stylish sun hat.

And this inflatable thing.

Is this ring to ensure social distancing, he wonders?

Trying out all his new gear.

Puu is back from his check-up.

3 generations, before Puu heads back to Trat.

So many books for Arlo.

Yikes! Monster spider spotted downstairs. Where did he come from? Where did he go?

Saturday morning: look at the matching quadruplets!

Saying hello to K. Wan.

Matching wefie!

Arlo loves reading with dad!

But is that position really comfortable?

Harborland!! We've been waiting for an excuse to come here.

Although we spent most of our time in the baby area.

Arlo didn't mind. So nice and padded.

Climbing up up up, all on his own!

Ooh, look at the colorful donuts.

Resting with dad.

Thrilled to be spinning in circles.

Up an even steeper set of stairs.

Not sure why he's going up; but Mum's up there, so it mustn't be too bad.

Climbing onto and over everything!

Trying to catch the hovering ball is harder than it looks!

Even the toys are more fun here than at home.

Riding a London bus for the first time.

Checking out the candy houses.

Happily climbing over a giant snake.

What's dad doing in there?

Uh oh! This platform spins, too.

So many bright lights on the ceiling!

It's so easy to stand up in here!

Trying to climb the donut ramp. A bit difficult, still!

Trying to figure out what these knobs are for.

Crawling around like a family of crazies.

So many things to look at. Too many things to look at!

Uh oh! Mum's stuck behind this mesh now, too.

Zipping off on his next quest.

Sitting pretty!

Making friends with another little boy, on the mall side.

Happy; what a long 2 hours!

Group shot! (Dad, where's your Marimekko shirt?)

Back at home, Arlo's exhausted. Time for a good sleep!

It's a banana breakfast the next morning.

"Woah! I always forget how this story goes!"

Arlo loves Penguin!

Arlo told himself a hoot of a joke.

"Aww, don't mind me!"

"What's with these nail clippers? All the time, trimming my nails."

Arlo loves his pack-and-play, too.

Smile!

Getting a little more refined with his stacking cups. (Stretch!)

Caught peeking under the couch.

No weekend is complete without a visit to the park.

Posing nonchalantly: a model in the making.

The profile shot.

Eating dinner on Dad's lap.

Balancing carefully while eating peas. Tricky!

"Wait a minute, where's my stroller?"

Trying on his new soother for size. (He's still not sure which end goes in his mouth.)

Hmm. Now how to get my ball?

On the way to swimming! We had to take a taxi (K. Noi's husband!) because Dad had the car.

Bangkok Week 626

June 25, 2020

Lucky Arlo finally gets to go back to Trat - where he hasn’t been since November!

Hello and Happy Friday.

We went for lunch at a recently re-opened Greyhound, with cutlery in bags and plastic dividers on the tables.

The next day, we were off to Trat - for the first time since November!

Arlo entertained himself for a short while, with the Arlo book from Bonnie & Bob.

Stopping for a pee, a coffee, and some milk at Tesco Lotus Klaeng.

We're here! Arlo hasn't seen his Yaa since January.

First order of business: lunch.

Very interested in the little fuzzy creatures.

So many new things to look at!

Chatting with his Puu.

Nap time for everyone.

Sleeping "angel".

First trip to the market. Arlo was thrilled!

Celebrating Yaa's birthday, only a few days late.

Dinner time! Puu can't believe Arlo's appetite.

Bath time. But right in the middle of the living room?

And dinner time for the adults.

Trying the Bangkok birthday cake.

The next morning, Arlo learns about retail from his Puu.

Having a chat.

Breakfast is a whole team affair.

Who's that?

Here's that fuzzy baby again!

Having a good time!

All eyes on Puu!

Cats on the car!

It's a stare-down.

Back at the market again, picking up some vegetarian cooking ingredients.

Not sure about all these "fish"!

Late afternoon chat outside Top's store.

All the boys!

Arlo's newest toy: his very own hair tie! He loves it.

Helping out again at the store on Monday morning.

Everyone's hear to watch breakfast!

Chatting with Yaa (or distracting her while trying to steal her bracelet?)

Darn, can't steal it now. Puu is watching, too.

Two generations.

Three generations!

Relaxing with his Yaa.

So relaxed.

And doing the rounds with his Aa Top, too.

"Hmm. This chin looks like Dad's."

Saying his good-byes, so soon.

"I'll see you again soon, Yaa."

Group shot!

Got some good naps in on the way back to Bangkok.

Back at home, checking out all the toys he'd forgotten about.

These cups still bang!

Wishing he were outside.

Tuesday morning, and an early breakfast with mum!

Inventorying his toys. Are they all still here?

Playing with the bigger ones, in his favorite spot by the window.

Oh! Where are we going now?

Swimming! At long last! It's been almost 3 months since we were last here!

Last time we were here, Arlo couldn't even sit up yet.

Now he's the oldest in his class.

Enjoying the gentle reintroduction to the water.

Back at the hospital for a facial follow-up. The highlight of his day: the train set!

"Puu! You're back!"

Arlo can't believe his fortune!

Arlo's happy now.

Reading one of his favorite stories before bed.

Bon appetit, and see you next week.

Bangkok Week 625

June 18, 2020

Our big boy celebrates his 9th month this week! And he has blood drawn (without crying), tries his hand at the barbecue, rides a see-saw without help, and so much more!

Hello, and welcome to another week!

Arlo is thrilled to be modeling his best northern hill tribe attire.

Saturday morning, hanging out with dad.

Interesting way to read a book: with your bum to the pages.

The boys take a Wefie while Mum's at the gym.

Napping on the big boy bed, while K. Wan cleans downstairs.

What a coincidence! This boy in the mirror has his northern outfit on today too!

Late Saturday afternoon in the park.

Sitting on the grass for the first time (on his own accord). Jury is out.

At long last, enjoying Big C frozen pizzas for dinner!

It's Sunday, June 14th: Arlo celebrates the completion of his 9th month!

He's thrilled.

See how time passes. Does it seem to move more slowly in recent months?

While we're in this chair: let's appreciate old photos of Granny in Thailand.

"This pretty lady looks familiar, but I can't quite place her."

Reading a book before going to the gym.

Monday wefie! Arlo smiles when the cute boy in the camera smiles back at him.

One of his favorite books!

Evening walk is when Arlo practices his Serious Face (TM).

Arlo is *thrilled* to be at his 9-month weigh-in.

Sitting at a table in a normal chair, just like the big kids.

And barbecuing sausages, just like the big kids.

Got some drippings on his fingers; needs to rinse them off quickly.

Adjusting the flame on the grill.

Oh! Chef got distracted! Time for some see-saw.

The t-shirt says it all! He didn't even cry when he had his blood drawn.

Waiting to pay: boooo-ring.

Birthday greetings for Arlo's Yaa.

And also for Auntie Julia!

(Although that picture was much harder to take.)

Silly lips.

Uh oh! The Ekkamai 12 khlong is back!

Arlo thought about cancelling his enrollment at Bangkok Dolphins and just practicing his laps here.

Saying night-night to the cute boy in the mirror.

High-five, boy!

And we'll see you next week.

Bangkok Week 624

June 11, 2020

Another breezy weekend visit to Benjasiri park; and Arlo attends his first birthday party for a “peer”.

Practicing standing in his pack-and-play.

Trading laughs with dad, on the other side of the fence.

Arlo enjoys having Dad read him a story!

What's this? Innovation at the gym.

Partitions up between every treadmill.

Arlo's first pair of shoes arrived!!

Don't they look spiffy? Now we just have to wait until he needs them...

Inventorying his beauty products.

Ooh, where are we going?

Emporium, to see all the fun ribbons!

And waiting patiently in a socially-distanced queue at Kinokuniya.

The park is looking nice and shaded this afternoon.

Arlo is mesmerized by all the pigeons.

"Wow. So many flying things!"

Just hanging out, enjoying the breeze.

Is this really the most ergonomic way to drink from a bottle?

Matching! (Unintentionally.)

Bird-spotting.

Looking handsome.

Just hanging out.

Group shot!

Sunday morning, and -- crash! The pilot has steered straight into an obstruction. (Trying to see what it is.)

And bang! Into another one!

Getting his first nap of the day on the road.

We're here in Nontaburi to celebrate p'Quinn's first birthday! (And her mummy's birthday, too.)

Arlo got to play on the playground. He wasn't thrilled about the sand on his feet.

Nor was he super psyched about the slide.

But he liked the big kids' swing!

Whee! The captain is flying!

Hold on, Captain! It's soon time to land.

Trying a french fry. Or was it a slice of birthday cake?

Back at home: mum had to start getting rid of the bananas!

Calming down, watching the breeze with dad.

And a quick trip to Donki. Arlo couldn't care less. But what's Mum doing with her fingers?

Dinner with the Very Hungry Caterpillar.

A ticklish Monday. Check out those pearly whites!

And we leave you with a sleeping beauty. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 623

June 4, 2020

This was a special week: Arlo finally had the opportunity to meet some of his friends again, after almost 3 months apart!

Hello, and welcome to another week!

A Friday grin from Mr. Handsome.

Saturday morning, practicing his fine motor skills with cocoa o's. (Good excuse.)

Helping Dad brush his teeth.

"Let me help you, Dad. It will be faster."

Arlo's first visit to Lumpini Park.

And Granny's friends are lining up to meet the newcomer.

"I heard there's a new boy in our midst!"

Now Arlo's creeped out. Where are the lizards?

Arlo's enthusiasm for this park is hard to miss.

Snack break!

Watching the water with Dad.

This park is not as fun as Benjasiri. It didn't help that the grass was all muddy...

Back at home, it's time for some pasta.

Getting pretty good at feeding himself.

Entertaining himself; doesn't seem too fussed by the dead father behind him.

Playing with our blocks!

Reading one of his favorite books.

Our roses are in full bloom.

Tibetan dinner. That must mean it's Saturday night!

Why hello, Sunday.

Back at our favorite park for a mid-morning picnic.

Enthralled by a pretty Japanese girl playing nearby.

Eyes still on the Japanese girl.

At least there are lots of people for people-watching.

Bored by the people-watching.

Group shot.

Arlo likes to fly with dad!

But Dad's face doesn't like it very much.

The lads, hanging out in the feeding room. Wait, aren't we supposed to be working here, guys?

Glad to be home: look at all these toys!

Watching the rain pour down! (We made it home just in time.)

Dad is sad: it's his last piece of durian.

Arlo savors it, too.

Someone's thrilled to be reading about the Very Hungry Caterpillar. (He can relate.)

Wow! The caterpillar ate so much on Saturday! Just like Arlo!

Playing in the box that his jail -- I mean, safety fence -- came in.

This will make a good playhouse one day.

Napping in his new bed; he seems none the wiser.

Monday blues.

Nothing like a bitter melon to cheer us up!

On second thought... it's probably called that for a reason.

Tuesday morning, Dad left for work hours ago. Just the two of us!

Added bonus of the pack-and-play: you can hang on with your mouth.

One of our sneaky neighbors, caught red-handed peeking into our bathroom.

Tongue for Tuesday.

Just a little messy.

A surprise call to Granny and Grandpa - because it's a holiday today!

Arlo shows off his dance moves. This is the Sprinkler.

Reading his new book about the earthworm party.

Clear shot of the teeth. (Mum's, too.)

Oh my goodness! Lucky us! This is everything we just received from Trad!

Arlo can't resist. He's got to see if this fruit is as prickly as it looks. (It is.)

Enjoying the head massage from Dad.

And at long last, Arlo meets up with his lady friends!

It's been so long, he's forgotten how to socialize.

"Ladies, keep it cool."

Back at home, saying good-night to the cutie in the mirror.

Waiting patiently for Thursday to begin.

Open wide, and wait for your breakfast! And we'll see you next week!

Bangkok Week 622

May 28, 2020

Arlo’s really mastered crawling now; and it’s becoming a liability! He also enjoys a few shopping excursions for the first time in months! And of course, a visit to the park.

It's time for another edition of Banana Breakfast!

Two spoons are always better than one!

Big smile for the camera.

Applesauce is for babies. Bring on the good stuff.

On second thought, maybe we'll stick to applesauce for a while.

Delicious santol fruit, that were went up from Trad.

Enraptured by dad's storytelling.

Having a nice nap on Dad. So much more comfortable than the bed.

Mum talks to her old roommates; Arlo plays with his favorite toy, the speaker.

Tongues are fun to play with, too.

Office chair shopping! Arlo is not impressed. "I already have a chair on wheels, guys."

"Can we go, already?"

He didn't realize how exhausted he was from that shopping excursion.

Learning about the very hungry caterpillar, and his busy Saturday.

And folks, we have a candidate for least flattering selfie.

It's Sunday morning, and you know what that means. Picnic in the Park!

Checking out the water and the pigeons with Dad.

This is fun.

Arlo loves looking at everything outside.

Playing with his favorite water bottle, and inspecting the grass.

Looking intently at the pigeon walking by. What is that?

Sitting on the edge of the ground. Gotta avoid all that green stuff!

Snack break.

And a quick stop in Emporium, for the first time in many months!

Social distancing being enforced in the food court.

Enjoying our lunch with a partition.

Back at home, Arlo enjoys his dessert: sweet, fleshy Durian!

He can't get enough. A true Thai boy at heart!

Uh oh! Phone's been hijacked.

Another Arlo selfie.

An unfortunate surprise on Monday morning. Phone's been damaged, after being cleaned with water.

Into an airtight box with silica gel it goes; and then we wait patiently for 72 hours.

Meanwhile, Arlo feeds himself cauliflower with precision and determination.

Yum! Arlo loves cauliflower!

Oh no! What's this?

A cage for the monkey!

We have to keep master safe from himself!

Arlo doesn't seem to mind. He keeps on playing with his toys.

And his tongues.

The more pragmatic setup (and what we'd originally envisioned).

Mango vs. banana. Who will win?

72 hours later: the gods of tech were on my side this time. The silica gel worked, and phone is back to normal. 😅

Arlo's getting good at standing on his own. Although he's starting to realize he might be boxed in.

Enjoying the new snack food Dad bought for Arlo: cocoa o's.

Good for fine motor skills, in addition to being delish!

Bangkok Week 621

May 21, 2020

Taking full advantage of Bangkok’s reopened parks!

Arlo's reaching out to you, to welcome the new week.

He was eager to try what Dad was cooking...

...and he learned his lesson the hard way!

Saturday morning: sweeping the floors with his PJs.

Eye on the prize: the air filter!

Going back to Nong Bon park again today...

... this time to do the 4km loop around the reservoir.

Arlo wishes we stayed in the car.

It was nicely tree-lined for much of the path.

Enjoying the shade, and the breeze.

Wefie.

Picnic conditions were not ideal: all the grass along the shore of the water was in direct sun. But that didn't stop us.

The boys play with the toys.

"Smiling" for Mum!

Pooped! And a good 25-min nap before the drive home.

Back at home, Arlo races around with his new car.

He's distracted by a better toy.

His high chair!

Raiding his toy box.

Acting blasé. Nothing to see here.

It's Casino frozen pizzas for dinner! Haven't had these in ages; they're finally back in stock at Big C!

It's pancake Sunday!!

Even Arlo's participating.

Yum! Pancakes are good, and easy to eat!

Time for our daily park quota, back at Benjasiri.

Sipping a nice cold soda.

Hanging out at the park is not so bad after all.

"If only I could get water out of this darn sippy cup!"

Action shot: he knows to close his eyes!

Playing soccer with the closest thing to a ball we brought.

The weeping sunflowers at Benjasiri have seen better days.

DIY lunch: cauliflower!

Shopping for office chairs: trying the ones at Nathan Rhodes.

Happy Monday!

Arlo's excited for Monday.

And for his favorite colorful elephant.

Demonstrating how the stroller is meant to be used.

Trying a new finger food. Can you tell what it is?

Broccoli! (Although a bit too over-cooked to be finger food.)

A quick visit to the nail salon, to avoid scratching his precious face.

Giggling at the chubby boy in the mirror.

Wait, isn't someone supposed to be *in* the bath tub?

Playing with his good friend, the boy in the mirror.

Our weekly veggies are here. The spinach is purple this week!

And we also got another box of fresh fruit from Trad. Lucky us!

"This darned raccoon in the middle of my line of sight."

Arlo in his big-boy clothes wishes you a good weekend, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 620

May 14, 2020

Master turns 8 months old this week! And just in time, he figures out how to crawl… and finally masters sitting up.

"Hello? Good morning? Happy Friyay!"

Arlo flashes a big grin to show off his teeth.

Sitting pretty.

Reading his book; but wondering where all the words went.

He's got all the right moves. Now he just needs to put them all together!

We ordered some locally-made veggie burgers (that came with some other freebies). To try this weekend.

Patiently waiting for his bath.

Saturday morning smiles.

"Mum, please! You're embarrassing me!"

Finally! After months of trying, Arlo finally gets his hands on the coveted prize: the black coffee mug.

Enjoying another Saturday morning at Benjasiri Park.

Playing with the Trader Joe's shopping bag...

... and the water bottle. Good thing we brought all these toys!

Quietly observing Dad.

Snack time!

It's hot, and there's no breeze. But that's nothing a little bouncing can't make up for!

Flying with Dad.

Making sure his cups still bang.

"Mum! Stop it!"

Eating his house for lunch.

Sitting pretty (and practicing for next time he goes to a temple).

Arlo loves this toy bar, but only when it's not attached to his chair.

Hehe! That was funny! (Arlo just let out a loud fart.)

Who said this boy wasn't photogenic!?

Our Saturday night staple: Tibetan food!

Yikes! This kiwi's got a defect!

Practicing his colors...

... and finally figuring out how to crawl! For none other than another coffee mug!

On Sunday we took a trip out to Nong Bon Park, due west of the airport (right next to Rama 9 park).

It's a giant man-made reservoir, but also hosts many water sports in the early morning and late afternoon.

There's also a 4-km tree-lined bike path that surrounds the reservoir. And many of the trees are in bloom.

"You guys. It's hot."

Here to enjoy the nature, the water bottles...

...and see Arlo's friend Quinn for the first time in many months!

Quinn can't believe how Arlo's her size now.

Lakeside seating.

Step one: eye the prize.

Step 2: make a move.

Step 3: look the other way, and pretend like nothing happened.

Quinn pinches Arlo's chins.

Exhausted after a warm, busy morning; getting a good nap in on the way home.

After a sleep and some lunch, he's all ready to spend the afternoon crawling around!

Here's his duck face again!

Enjoying learning about Clifford.

Getting ready to wish Granny a Happy Mother's Day.

And here it is: Happy Mother's Day, Granny!

What's special about this picture?

Arlo's standing on his own!

Mum's turn to make dinner!

It only happens once in a blue moon, so we better make the most of it!

Yum, burgers!

Finishing off with a smile.

This is what Arlo thinks of Mondays.

Learning about the very hungry caterpillar is making Arlo's tummy hurt.

Uh oh! Look what just arrived from Trat.

Enough fruit to feed a village!

Arlo's going to like these!

Not sure what to make of these "fruit".

Getting used to his stroller.

Chasing his ball around the mat, now that he can.

Arlo, the future floutist.

Uh oh! Everybody stand back!

Yay! Our veggies for the week are here!

You put your right leg up, you put your right leg down...

Yum! Fresh mangosteens for dessert.

Happy 8-month birthday, Arlo!

My, how eight months fly!

"Look at me! I mastered sitting, just in time!"

Celebrating his birthday this month with a very special treat: durian.

Arlo cautiously waves good-bye (with his foot). See you next week!

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