Bangkok Week 681

July 15, 2021

Arlo turns 1 year and 10 months old this week! And he has another swimming lesson; unfortunately, it’ll be his last one for a while, since the COVID situation is only getting worse. At least we still have the parks!

We start this week with some good old water play.

And by water play, we mean opportunity to water the flowers!

Look what just arrived from Trat: baby corn, fresh off the stalk!

Friday evening stories are the best kind of stories.

Saturday swimming! Arlo ended up having a private lesson.

Practicing his kicking... when he feels like it.

And collecting all the sinker toys. At his own leisurely pace.

And practicing his underwater swimming.

Swimming all the way to mum!

Time for a stroll around the neighborhood.

Enjoying the view from his stroller. Hurry up, Dad!

Hey look, Bella has a central role in Room on a Broom!

Plant-based meat is all the rage here now. Trying these nuggets on for size.

Arlo's never seen anything quite like this. Is it natural?

Trying his nugget, flanked by friends on either side. (At his insistence.) Verdict? The outside is good!

Studying every detail of Clifford's Sports Day very carefully.

Pay attention to me, too!

Our bushes are flowering. I didn't know they could do that!

Rains have stopped and skies look clear enough to pop over to the park.

Arlo's excited.

Turtle-spotting. Ain't gonna see no turtles underwater given how murky this pond is.

A candidate for the timeless classic: Thais Pointing at Things.

The park is so empty; and these flower petals are so bright!

Hmm. Which petal to pick up?

And checking out the different types of leaves.

And sticks, and twigs... and occasional snack wrappers.

A turtle! What's he doing all the way over here?

Taking him back to the pond; although by the looks of things, he's quite intent on getting to the BTS.

Trading leaves with Dad.

Wow, those are some giant leaves, Mum!

"Arlo wants to sweep!" But a palm frond is a bit less ergonomic than a broom.

Park is so empty, Arlo has this climbing sculpture all to himself. (Maybe also because it's surrounded by pure mud.)

New tattoo time!

"Wait for it to dry, Arlo!" "This one?"

Monday splash time.

Enjoying the showers and flowers.

Popping a wheelie.

Arlo wants a scooter so badly. Pretending his bike is one.

Enjoying the evening breeze; on the rare dry night.

Doing The Robot.

And enjoying his prune. No one has ever made a prune look so scrumptious.

Imitating Peter, a young character in a book.

Silly Peter!

Arlo and Bella: a story in three panels.

Nice nice, sitting with Bella.

Best buds.

Good morning, Arlo. Where are your pants?

Enjoying the morning.

Arlo turns 1 year and 10 months old today: measuring up!

I feel like we have an Olympic sprinter in our house whenever we take these photos.

Midday storytime with Mum.

Funny book!

Cooling off in the afternoon.

Arlo the fashionista: brown headband and matching leather belt.

Good morning, Thursday.

Trying out the new Oximeter that Mum got from work.

Wefie: "Arlo, smile with your teeth!"

Double-whammy: check out this bear cookie that was just delivered to Mum. Also from work.

Delicious bear!

We close this week with some ribbon dancing. See you next time!

Bangkok Week 680

July 8, 2021

Arlo the Explorer is really into all the plants, trees and leaves at the park. And he also restarts his swimming lessons after almost 3 months outside the pool. Hooray!

Arlo got a new (used) bike! A much better size for him... if only it would balance!

Reading Arlo's new (home-made) Zamboni book.

Telling Dad about all his trucks.

Rainy afternoon...

... so rainy, Arlo thinks he needs an umbrella.

Saturday: new day, new sun. Same ice resurfacers!

Off to the park for an early visit. So many things on the ground!

Oh look, a leaf, says Arlo the explorer.

Wow, a giant flower within arm's reach!

And it's even pointing down to face little people.

Taking stock: where to go next?

And giant red cone flowers.

Running with gusto... until he tripped and banged his lower lip on a stepping stone, of course.

A consolation ice cream stick.

Unsure at first, the verdict is in: it's good.

Arlo's a big boy, he can eat this on his own.

Although the heat doesn't help.

Uh oh! A little too messy for someone's taste.

Turtle-spotting.

And bandaids and ice cubes are right over there.

Doing well, walking by himself around the entire park.

Looking for cats in the flowers.

Happy to see Bella after a morning away.

Mum and Dad have a nice special dinner. Too bad Arlo is asleep.

Dad's all the craze.

Copying everything he sees: and this is how Mum clips his toenails.

And his fingernails.

Mr. Stylish. Winter hat and no pants bike ride.

Eating lunch altogether. Never as easy as it should be.

This time, it's a late-afternoon trip to the park.

He knows how to entertain himself: throw the tennis ball, and then go chase after it.

The great ball-chaser.

Look! A huge tree!

Interested in the bright yellow daisies.

Getting good and close for a whiff. Nevermind the bees!

Arlo doesn't know what to do when his bird of prey just sits there.

Beautiful Bangkok.

Refreshment break!

Water break! It's a warm afternoon with no breeze!

Walking through the maze.

Look, there's Alba!

No swimming today, but a splash in the wading pool is a consolation.

Talking to his Puu and Yaa at the same time.

Bella, Mum's co-worker.

Here's the fashionable biker, at it again.

Must be the end of the day.

Time for Arlo's swimming lesson, at a new school this time!

Arlo can't wait!

Nice, big, built-for-purpose pool with salt water.

If you're happy and you know it, jump up and down!

Practicing his kicks... although we're supposed to be relaxing on our backs, practicing the back float.

Action shot: jump!

Practicing his kicking.

And practicing his balance.

Checking out every toy (so many new ones!) in the basket.

Pouring water over Arlo's head.

And gettin ready to do an underwater swim.

Swim to mum!

And jump from standing. So much fun!

After swimming, Arlo is so hungry he could eat a whole eggplant!

Looking for a kangaroo.

It must be in here somewhere!

Playing with an edible flower.

Good night and see you next week!

Bangkok week 679

July 1, 2021

Parks have reopened! Let’s hit ‘em all up, before they get closed again!

We begin this week with Bella, who's trying her best to help Mum at work.

"Hello?" Arlo is interviewing for the receptionist role.

Excited for Friday!

Keeping watch over the neighborhood.

Spot Bella in all this clutter! Hanging out with Mum as she closes off some last things before the weekend.

Enjoying the jam donut we promised him almost a week ago.

Burning some of that donut energy on a game of basketball.

Back to the park, at long last! It's been 3 months since we were last here!

Which way to go first?

Arlo's not sure.

Pretending he's not excited to be here.

Ooh, Arlo remembers why it used to be so fun to come here.

It seems many other families have the same idea as us!

Continuing around the pond hand-in-hand.

Who's more excited to be here?

Where did Dad go?

Arlo doesn't seem the least bit concerned.

The volleyball court looks really appealing. If only we could go in there...

Snack break.

Arlo's favorite feature of the park this visit: the big, round life preserver.

Enjoying delicious egg sandos for lunch, with melt-in-your-mouth chili-cheddar sourdough.

Working on his supercar.

Sitting cross-legged "like P'Noi" and concentrating hard.

Quick afternoon stroll around the block.

The only exception we make to zero-screentime: to watch Zambonis on Youtube.

Mr. Bun, sitting politely with Dad, reading a book...

... and savoring an ice cube!

Sunday: time to continue our park tour at Nong Bon.

Wrangling the crew: let's go that way!

Arlo decides he's old enough to push his stroller now!

Nice, shady, and windy!

Found himself a nice small stump to sit on.

Carefully climbing over roots.

This stick was with us for more than half the walk.

Enjoying a cool evening breeze and an ice cube.

Monday morning special: a new tattoo! Drying it patiently.

Uh oh, someone is ready for a nap! (Hint: it's not Arlo.)

Rainy evening: this calls for an umbrella while we play piano.

Well, at least the performers are dry!

How generous of Mum to hold the umbrella while Arlo plays.

Artistic energy calls for a change: swap the umbrella for a bike helmet, pronto!

Enjoying the umbrella well after the rain has ended... the next day.

Just your typical dish rack.

Uh oh! Storm's-a-comin'!

Rainy evening story with Dad.

Here's Bella again, back to help with the slides.

Our naked little gardener.

Hello in there? I changed my mind...

I think I see a typo!

Eating lunch with Dad.

And saying good night to his Puu and Yaa. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 678

June 24, 2021

We sneak in a trip to Trat, for the first time since last December. Lucky Arlo had lots of fun and attention.

Wrapping up Friday night with some puzzles.

This is Arlo's concentration position for doing puzzles.

Bringing coals to Newcastle? Making more pumpkin bread (with the giant pumpkin from Trat that's still around and kickin').

And we're off! Bella's excited to be in the car; Arlo has a feeling it might be a while.

Arlo's enjoying himself (lots to see outside!) and Bella's settled in.

Don't get to see these often: a truck transporting raw rubber.

An early nap for Arlo; Bella wonders, are we there yet?

Finally, we're here! Puu's tuk-tuk is waiting for Arlo.

Arlo insists on sleeping on the big bed... with Mum.

Afternoon splash time!

We realized during the drive that our A/C coolant needs a top-up. Top's friends are here to help!

Helping (?) sweep the house... both with broom and door mat.

And now that the floor is clean, it's time to cycle!

Teamwork!

Watering the plant. (The poor plant probably got enough water for 2 weeks.)

And here's where the tiny boy slept all night.

Delighting himself on Sunday morning by pushing a chair around the kitchen, making an awful screeching sound. At 7am.

Just checking out the fish, to make sure they still have enough water...

Looking around Top's shop: so many cars!

Oh look, another giant pot of rainwater.

Haven't scooped any water yet today, let's get going!

From one pot to the other.

A different 3 generations.

Gee, something must be interesting.

How come this cat doesn't have a tail?

Just hanging out with his Yaa (and Tong), chatting away.

Look! Bananas!

And coconuts! Yaa is such a pro at picking them.

Arlo is delighted when they thud on the ground.

Can Arlo help to carry them back to the house?

He got one!

It took many tries, but here it is, at the house. Good work, Arlo!

This really is Yaa's specialty.

Trying his first-ever fresh coconut juice. Yum!

Splash time again, this time with the sprayer!

Another tour of the garden. Look at the beautiful orchid.

And Arlo spots a tiny snail.

And another tiny snail. So tempting to touch it!

And Arlo-height papayas.

And a new bed of (baby?) corn, planted just for Arlo.

Doing another tour of the property with Yaa.

Arlo really likes these spinny can things; although when he asks what they are, it's hard to answer.

And he really likes this "bell" from Granny and Grandpa.

Going for a walk on a (nicely maintained) road through the rice fields near the house.

Checking out this giant contraption that Arlo has certainly not seen before.

Running ahead... and getting quite the leg workout.

Puu and Bella spot a felled tree, filled with these interesting birds nests.

Very geometric birds nests (that have inspired wicker furniture, too).

Unfortunately, the tree is also filled with bees!

Continuing along. Hurry up, guys!

Bella is enjoying Puu's pace.

Dragonfly and scarecrow.

Excited to have found an Arlo-sized bridge.

Ready to start running again!

Let's get our run on!

Walking carefully along the yellow line.

The calm evening fields.

Someone didn't want to turn around and head back to the car. So he got the royal treatment.

Okay, this is kind of fun, too.

The next morning, just hanging out in the kitchen with Tong.

Nope! Not up to anything!

Checking out the upstairs for the first time. It's big and empty, but for a broom!

Getting some pre-trip treats from her new best friend.

Hanging out with Yaa one last time before heading back.

Arlo is telling jokes.

And hanging out with his Aa Top.

Posing with Aa Top's new CNC router.

Oh no. Does Arlo have to say good-bye to Puu, too?

Bye-bye. Bella and Arlo would be happy to stay.

Full group shot.

Doing a round of wai's. How polite.

Bella's wondering, what!? Back in the car again!?

An early, but decent-length nap for Arlo.

And a scenic rest stop, friendly for the whole gang.

Changing the soiled diaper au naturel.

Even though we're back in Bangkok, Arlo is still keen to water the plants!

Someone's bangs are getting long.

Nice evening breeze: can open the office right up.

Showing off his full pony-tail. (Gangsta-style.)

And practicing wearing a mask.

Our MIT Technology Review magazine came with this stamp. So many questions!

New slogan on the 'lifestyle cafe' down the street. Quite certain they didn't think about what they're implying...

Reading a book to himself over lunch.

Really, really into his book.

Two durians and 6 kraton, freshly sent from Trat. Wait, weren't we just there?

The hard work done. (At least for one of the durians.)

Pretending he doesn't know who spilled that water around the plant.

Long bangs and big smile.

Reading himself a tiny book. It might also be a manual for the camera in his room.

Bella asking for some TLC, while Mum is hard at work.

Bangkok Week 677

June 17, 2021

Arlo and Bella check out a new dog park; Mum makes pumpkin bread to last a lifetime; and lucky us, we receive another shipment of fresh fruit from Trat! Keeping busy during COVID.

Got Arlo a new mattress to bring to Trat: everyone try it out!

Dad's finished his vaccine regime. Yay!

Just waiting 30 minutes to make sure nothing dramatic happens.

Back at home, Mum puts her baking skills to the test, to use some of this giant pumpkin to make pumpkin bread.

The end result.

Just hanging around on a Saturday afternoon.

Waltzing with Dad.

Sleeping, hand-in-hand. (Head-on-hand?)

Where are we off to, with Bella in tow?

The dog park (as Arlo calls it, anyway).

This doggie playground used to be right behind our house, but they just moved beyond On Nut.

Arlo probably enjoyed it more than Bella.

Look, a flower!

Riding on the stationary dogs.

Arlo's probably wondering why it's not rocking.

"Can we go home yet?"

Back at home, Arlo eyes his afternoon snack.

Delicious! (Not to toot my own horn, but it did turn out well; the fresh ginger helped!)

Sunday morning walk around the block.

Wow, another pumpkin snack!

Let's try painting again. It's been a while.

Well, it's more tolerable with a paint brush.

But it still makes for messy hands!!

Showing Mum his messy hands.

So messy!

That's it, this artist is DONE!

Drawing with P'Noi on Monday. Crayons are so much better.

Arlo turns 1 year and 9 months today! Time to measure up!

This is the face of someone who's figured out how the laundry rack works.

Oh boy, oh boy! Another box of fruit from Trat.

Everyone's taking a look at what's inside.

Yum yum! Arlo's first time trying mangosteen.

Our little samurai.

Then a mango truck came through the neighborhood, with prices too good to resist. Too bad we just got 10kg of fruit delivered to our door.

Dad just bought lucky Arlo a new book: the 100-storey house.

Any water in there? It's awfully dark...

Smile!

Arlo's latest fascination? Armpits! Where's Dad's armpit?

Portrait of a monkey.

In three steps: how the creepy heart flower blooms.

Portrait of the boys.

Happy Birthday, Yaa!

And happy birthday, Auntie Julia! Another year older!

"Working" -- that's how Arlo describes this.

Mum inventories her pens and draws at the desk all day.

Still more pumpkin bread: snack up!

The moon! After a month of cloudy nights, it's finally back!

Enjoying the evening breeze, but not missing a chance to check on the pens.

We'll be here drawing; and we'll see you next week!

Bangkok Week 676

June 10, 2021

A fun weekend adventure outdoors, at long last. Arlo is learning to brush his teeth in the mirror, and he’s found himself a stylish new hat. And lucky Mum got a surprise AZ, too!

We start this week with a handshake between friends.

"Why is Bella's leg on Arlo's arm?"

Enjoying the cool evening breeze on the balcony.

Inspecting Bella's fur.

And getting some late-evening work done before bed.

Oh my. Is that a donut for breakfast?

Yes indeed, it's a strawberry jam donut.

And it gets Arlo's stamp of approval!

Arlo figured out that the clothes pin box actually makes an excellent hat.

Eating an ice cube in a tunnel. What could be better?

Reading Goodnight Moon together. Arlo knows this one pretty well by now.

Oh man! Afternoon rain.

Reading a book with dad, in the good company of his two piggy banks.

Showing how he can brush his own teeth now.

Morning exercise with Dad!

In the afternoon, we went to the park behind Mega Bangna; since it's privately operated, it's open!

Arlo's not sure where we are, but he's eager to go in.

And he makes a beeline for the fountains.

Need to learn some self control here.

Arlo's wondering why we're only coming here now.

Giant fountains that you can walk right into!

Can't believe what he sees.

Wondering if he should go back in.

These little fountains are a perfect height!

Wait, woah!

This is very wet indeed.

Dad's staying a comfortable distance away; we didn't bring a change of clothes for Dad.

Not very interested in running in the grass; only watching the fountains from afar.

Taking a stroll anyway.

Walking up the spiral treehouse.

And riding the escalators up and down a few times.

Intently watching some guys play basketball.

Bringing to life something he only knows from books.

Not keen to walk on the skyway himself.

Checking out the big leaves below.

"Smile, Arlo!"

Hey look, another water fountain!

What giant plant is this?

Can't help but go back to check out those fountains one last time.

Trying his luck.

Dad takes one for the team.

Drying off and fueling up.

This has been a fun afternoon!

Back at home, Arlo tells Bella all about his adventures at the park.

Bella's not sure it sounds like fun.

Getting ready for bed; teeth time!

Woah! Lucky me! Surprise AZ on Monday afternoon. Leftover dose.

View from the hospital; the old part of Bangkok always feels like a different city.

Putting away the laundry and sporting his new hat.

Yup, that's definitely a style.

Afternoon water fun.

And drying off the balcony after a rain.

Who's here!? Arlo is both excited and shy to see his Puu.

Showing off his skateboard.

All smiles.

Having a chat.

Arlo shows off what his potty is for.

Proud of himself.

Three generations of gentlemen.

Getting some work done before his nap.

What, you've forgotten your password?

Realized Puu was going home, and wasn't happy about it!

Off he goes; bon voyage.

Gee Dad, that face sure helps make this tomato go down.

Taking stock of all the pens in the office before bed.

Figuring out how to use a binder clip.

Bangkok Week 675

June 3, 2021

We finally leave the house — for this first time in almost 2 months — and take a late-afternoon visit to the sea! Otherwise, it’s more pandemic entertainment at home!

We begin this week with some Saturday chores. Thanks, Arlo!

Enjoying egg salad sandos on fresh melt-in-your-mouth sourdough.

Bella's nail clipper has finally arrived: and so her time has come.

Hugs from my babies.

Went to visit the pier at Bang Pu on Saturday afternoon.

It was nice and breezy; and with plenty of space for Arlo to run free.

Run run run, Arlo!

Ooh look, a colorful mural.

Now THAT is a big, fat seagull!

Low tide, and the mangroves.

Counting shells and waves with Dad.

What a convenient step! So easy to see into the water.

Group shot! Arlo's thrilled.

Heading back to land: this time, the wind is in our favor!

Having a rest. This is good leg exercise.

Arlo is leaving with hair twice as big as what he arrived with.

The next morning, Arlo learns about his motorcycles.

This is one of his favorite reading positions.

Drinking from a Big Boy cup.

Bella knows she's not allowed on this part of the couch... she's pushing the rules.

Affection from Arlo. Poor Bella.

Arlo is content to hang out with Bella on the cool floor all afternoon.

Smiling because Dad's letting him play with the frog tape dispenser.

Ronan's shape sorter is still providing Arlo lots of entertainment.

Reading about the Great Wall of China? Or up to no good?

Sunday afternoon. You know what that means: ice cream time!

Repotting Arlo's limes. Trying a Hail Mary to help them survive.

Arlo's helping very nicely: at the expense of his clothes.

Someone lost his pants.

And is happy to show off the rest of himself, too.

Helping to fold the laundry.

Someone has pen marks all over his face. Wonder how those got there?

Uh oh! Someone escaped from his bath with a key piece missing!

Meet Arlo's twin sister, Arla.

She's actually related to Red Fraggle.

Arla is a little bit taller than Arlo!

We got another shipment of (very ripe) rambutan from Trat. And also, this giant pumpkin!

Arla disappeared again, but this Arlo is up to no good.

Eyeing the subject of his affection.

Pucker up, Bella!

Mwah!

And another, for good measure.

Just lazing around, enjoying the evening breeze.

And watering the plants with Dad.

Time for some swimming!

The garden ended up getting a good watering, too!

More water for the warm plants upstairs.

Inspecting the ball. Dad helps keep Arlo's hair out of his eyes.

Peek-a-boo! Where's Arlo?

It's a holiday Thursday! That means: tractors first thing in the morning!

A holiday-special breakfast: ice!

The boys happily building away the morning hours.

More hugs for Bella, who's just trying to sleep.

I love you, Bella!

Mid-afternoon walk, while the sun is behind the clouds.

Oh man. Mum is making me paint again. This isn't fair.

Maybe if I just touch it with one finger.

Nope, that's still slimy.

Arlo's favorite part of painting is when the adult squeezes the paint out of the bottle.

Much better. Mum's the one getting her fingers messy.

This is much better: drawing with a pen!

The highlight of the painting experience: washing it all off afterward!

You missed a spot, Dad!

We conclude this week with snuggles and smiles. We must be looking at a Zamboni picture!

Bangkok Week 674

May 27, 2021

More adventures in Ekkamai 12: costumes, donuts, tattoos, improvised swimming lessons, and more! Oh, and Dad gets his first COVID vaccine, while Arlo gets his annual flu vaccine.

We start this week with a good-news update: someone got the first of his two vaccine shots!

Meanwhile at home, Arlo models his man bun in another hipster outfit.

Where's Arlo?!

A special new hat, which looks awfully like Arlo's Duplo box.

Hanging out with Dad, hearing about his vaccination story.

Reading a book to himself.

And modeling his special new costume: the Arab man.

Very excited by his hat.

Nope, it doesn't look like a dish towel. Not one bit.

Arlo's Duplo cars weren't good enough as cars: so now they are a train.

Saturday morning surprise: Paczki!

Savoring each bite.

Trying to get the icing stuck to his lip.

Arlo approves.

More donuts, please!

Staring into the selfie cam, admiring his masterpiece.

Time for a hot midday walk around the block, when no one else dares to be outside.

Time for our piano lesson.

Comparing his tractor to the one in the book.

Oh no! Donuts, part two? Say it ain't so.

The boys' wrestling match.

Is it a wrestling match or a tickling match?

Lounging around, enjoying the breeze before bed.

Dramatic night sky (and condos) hanging over our neighborhood.

Time to express our artistic side! An uncanny resemblance, right?

Oh boy, oh boy! Which tattoo to pick first?

Helping the school bus dry quickly.

Wait a sec, now there's a school bus stuck to my arm...

Another Arlo-made masterpiece.

Oh yes! Ice! Dessert came early today.

The two-handed technique. Only the most practiced ice-eaters know this one.

Selfie!

Finally cut that big tangle out of the back of Arlo's head.

Showing off his man bun.

Playing with play dough requires a lot of concentration.

Putting together his puzzle; he's almost mastered the 3-piece puzzles.

Dad's watering the plants: and everyone wants to go help.

Arlo finally gets his turn to help water the plants on the balcony.

And this one, too...

... and after watering the floor, we ended up reenacting a swimming lesson.

These pants come off outside.

Patiently waiting for someone to drop some food.

Dad, finally getting his Durian on.

Arlo approves!

Good Durian, Dad!

Arlo's excited by the new toy that Dad brought home for work: the massage steamroller!

Vroom vroom!

And despite being there for a flu shot, Arlo really enjoyed his trip to the doctor.

It was the first time he got out of the house to play in almost 2 months!

Pretend-washing his hands: Arlo's a pro.

He even went down the slide on his own over 5 times! By the time playgroups reopen, slides are going to be so passe.

"Is this one alright for you, sir?"

Pucker up!

And kiss kiss!

Snuggle time.

Rolling around with Bella is nice and relaxing, too.

Bella wonders where the blanket came from.

Telling mum one of his special jokes.

They've done a nice job cleaning up the guard hut and entrance to our moo baan. They even got new garbage cans!

Reenacting what he sees Mum doing all day.

This keyboard is "the same as Dad's", he said.

Oh wow! This speaker is the best wheel ever. It has lights and sounds.

"Hello? Hello? Okay, we'll see you next week!"

Bangkok Week 673

May 20, 2021

Arlo turns 20 months old this week! And we continue to patiently entertain ourselves at home as this COVID wave shows no sign of abating.

Arlo turns 1 year and 8 months old today! Clocking in for his monthly tree photo.

But Dad is still taller.

Arlo's newest play-thing (more pandemic shopping): a trailer tent.

Arlo likes it. Mum might like it more.

Wondering if he can enter via the exclusive tunnel entrance.

Posing with Bella.

Giving Bella a patented Hug-from-Behind.

Just looking out the window and standing on his skateboard.

Enjoying the breeze on the balcony.

Is that the moon?

Mum's little helper with the weekend chores.

He's a pro. He can help K. Wan when she comes back.

Reenacting one of his favorite baby photos.

Playing bubbles with Dad. Arlo only requests "big bubbles".

Pop! Right on the face!

Nap time for everyone!

After huffing and puffing, Arlo pops out one bubble of his own.

Bella having a Sunday morning rest before the Arlo monster wakes up.

Uh oh! Here he is, to say good morning to Bella.

Posing with the bike he's about to lend to his friend Ronan.

Watching the tractor (dozer?) video that Granny and Grandpa took for Arlo.

Wow! Look at that big, yellow tractor.

Playing with rice.

Well, we could have seen this ending from minutes away.

Sweeping sweeping. Even getting under the rug.

Psyched to have ended up with a fire engine through the toy swap.

Getting a good look at all its red goodness.

Another day, another early-evening breeze.

And more moon-spotting! (Or are they plane-spotting?)

Trying on another new shirt from Granny. It's almost long enough to be a dress!

Arlo is still enjoying the fire truck from Ronan.

Just lazing around.

See? Dad can fit in the tent, too!

Arlo can't get enough of this reenactment!

Good morning hugs for Bella.

"Save me! Save me" squeaks Bella.

All eyes on Dad.

Taking in the nice evening breeze.

What's this!? A Spiderman shirt?

Wow, this is a really cool shirt! Thank you, Uncle Top!

Speaking of Uncle Top, look what we just received from the back yard in Trat.

Spiderman was scared by the spiky rambutan at first...

...but it turns out they're really delicious.

Arlo's a fan.

Spiderman, getting ready to make his big move.

Caught trying to scale the fence.

This is the first and last time the stacking cups come up to the balcony. We almost lost the cups over the edge too many times to count.

Today, it's Hipster Arlo in the house!!

Modeling this outfit from Granny, with the attitude to go with it.

It looks even better with a man bun.

What a little model.

At least someone in this house can pull off a Man Bun.

Playing with his newest toy: a pumpkin.

Inspecting this eggplant. Are you sure it's not a baseball?

And tearing the banana leaves that the veggies were wrapped in. Because that's what banana leaves are for!

Uh oh! Khlong Ekkamai 12 is back tonight!

Poor Bella definitely did not get her walk this evening.

And modeling another (rather heavy) long-sleeved hoodie from Granny.

After one day in this thing, Arlo is wondering when the cool weather will catch up.

Wefie with Mum.

Someone's getting sleepy.

Bella's favorite nighttime activity: rat spotting.

Bangkok Week 672

May 13, 2021

Our self-imposed lockdown continues; and Arlo wishes Granny a Happy Mother’s Day!

Celebrating Friday night with some delicious NY-style pizza!

Arlo hits the weekend running: let's do some puzzles!

Giving Bella all his affection.

"Ahem! Attention!"

Playing the Christmas Carol in Pookie's Christmas.

Mid-day walk around the neighborhood: it's the only time we can avoid the neighbors!

Weekly vegetable delivery is here! 1 kilo of okra, all for Arlo.

Delivery boy on his skateboard.

Big stash of diapers just arrived too (bought during the 5.5 sale). Arlo likes the box!

Uh oh! His face says it all; you can guess what happens next!

Whack!

Reading Ug and eating a banana with Dad: this is the ideal Saturday.

Having what seems to be a serious chat on top of the box of diapers.

Happy Mother's Day, Granny!

Happily munching on a banana chip. (Not a rocket ship, for the record.)

Looking even more like a monkey than usual.

Who's hiding in the tunnel?!

Arlo's hiding in the tunnel!

Enjoying the early-evening breeze with Dad.

Watching P'Noi cut up a mango. Arlo can't wait.

The entrance to our Moo Baan has been tidied up a bit.

Proud of himself for doing all four puzzles.

Look! Mum and Arlo each got a package from Granny!

And we got matching t-shirts!

Trying on all his new outfits (over his current one).

Who needs a shirt anyway?

Arlo asked to wear his flip-flops from K. Wan. That lasted about 30 floppy seconds.

What's Dad having for lunch? And can Arlo pleeeease have some, too?

The big boy still needs to take some thumb-sucking breaks.

Inspecting his trailer.

Bella has resorted to new heights because there is a giant fan on her usual spot.

Arlo's favorite form of entertainment.

Helping fold the laundry, and trying on one of Mum's shirts. Not a fan of dress-up yet.

Bella patiently waits while the adults eat dinner. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 671

May 6, 2021

Arlo is still fighting his Roseola; and it’s a 4-day quarantine weekend to boot. Good thing we have the train track expansion pack now!

Dressed for success! A onesie to stay cool, and socks for good measure.

Trying to catch some Zzz's... unsuccessfully.

Best Saturday morning entertainment.

The excited engineer and his latest achievement.

Arlo is not as impressed.

Close-up of the detail in the final stretches of the loop.

Teaching Arlo how to be an effective contributor to the household chores.

Ordered some paint brushes: will Arlo enjoy painting more this way?

His face says it all.

Ick, it's still sticky and wet.

Making a valiant effort anyway.

Watching Dad unpack the groceries. Who needs a learning tower?

The great figure-8.

Again, Arlo is less than impressed.

Sunday morning: Arlo is feeling a lot better today! Trying a few reading position.

Solving a great mystery with Dad: where's Heidi?

Modeling pose.

Mum's latest project for Arlo: the budget bus! This is the first time Mum is painting in ~20 years!

No afternoon would be complete without some ice cream!

Demonstrating how craaa-zzzy chocolate ice cream makes him.

Mmm-mmm. Delish!

Wefies with Mum. Practically twins.

Sporting a really nice man bun; Arlo can pull it off.

Going out for a walk for the first time in almost a month: when it's too hot for all the neighbors to be out.

However, that also means we have to back down the street when the sun is out.

Strengthening his ballet muscles.

Arlo: The Intimidator.

Freshly-made bolognese for dinner: Mum's only dish.

Almost finished!

The finished product.

The next morning: verdict is...

... neutral!

Missing his friend Sally!

Baby Arlo is feeling under-the-weather thanks to the rash. Asleep in Dad's arms by 11:30.

The monkey: just trying to "sit with Bella".

A great vantage point from which to watch the rain.

The concentric circles with elevated u-turn!

"Smile, Arlo." Result.

Arlo enjoys lying around with Bella.

But does Bella enjoy it in return?

Counting Bella's nipples.

Lying on Arlo's keys. Bella is wondering how it has come to this?

Not sure he wants to be outside right now. It's hot.

The famous switch-back railway (on flat ground).

Tuesday morning, Arlo finally seems to be feeling like his usual self. Time to do some shopping!

Bella's demonstrating her secret signal for 'help'.

That big smile can only mean one thing: tractor photos on the phone.

Getting inventive: playing with the Ikea laundry octopus.

Speaking of inventive, Arlo shows off his new hat...

... which you may know better as his potty.

The giant Godbella blocks the switch-back railway. Oh no!

Patented toddler face massage for Mum.

Arlo wants mum to buy this ball!

Sitting at the big-boy table eating tomatoes and papaya.

Wefie again!

Kiss-kiss.

At long last, K. Noi is back! Arlo is showing her how he can eat at the big boy table now.

Saying good night from the balcony.

Bella has learned that there are great views from up here.

Quite happy to have found this spot.

Arlo and Dad are plane-spotting; Bella is seeing if there's anything edible in Dad's ear.

Pre-bath conference. (It's Arlo's turn to give Bella the side-eye.)

Bella's started to spend parts of the day with Mum in her office.

Look, Mum! No hands! (Good thing we're trying this on the staircase.)

Modeling his colorful polo shirt.

Just in case you didn't get a close-enough view last time.

Hanging out with Mum for her evening calls, too. Night night!

Bangkok Week 670

April 29, 2021

The latest lockdown continues; Bella settles in; and all of Dad’s online purchases arrive for weeks of fun ahead!

Another week, another lockdown. Arlo wishes he could be outside playing with the other kids at the end of the day.

Instead, he's up here playing peek-a-boo with Dad!

What's with this camera anyway!?

Meanwhile, Bella waits patiently downstairs, trying to see what's going on on the balcony.

Now it's Arlo's turn to sit on the jungle bench.

Posing with Bella...

... and discussing life with Bella.

Arlo found the comfiest seat in the house.

Pandemic Saturday afternoon means... ice cream time!

Bella would like some too, thankyouverymuch.

Sharing secrets.

Finger painting time!

Arlo has found a clever way to finger paint without any of the icky mess!

Reading nursery rhymes with Bella.

Showing her all the good pages.

Highlight of Arlo's Saturday: window-washing!

Enthusiastically eating a big dinner!

A gentle kiss on the ear.

Sunday morning, enjoying a front-row seat on his potty.

Just hanging out.

Bella looks so peaceful, Arlo couldn't help but try too.

Bella. Are you sleeping well, Bella?

One last family trip to Nong Bon park, before the parks close tomorrow.

Everyone's happy to be out!

Arlo enjoys running along this track...

... despite the many distractions.

Bella resting in the water, after a spontaneous sprint along the bank.

"Arlo, smile!"

Someone can't go back inside without a bath, after that muddy escapade.

Dad's big purchase has arrived: the powered locomotive for Arlo's train set! (At least one of them is excited.)

Gymnastics with Bella.

Bella is seriously considering whether to request a transfer back to her foster home.

Look, no hands!

And practicing the piggy-back. We'll get there.

Really wishing he could be down with the big kids; nevermind the missing pants.

Another evening, another missed opportunity!

Watching all the wheels go by with Dad.

Dad's other big purchase finally arrived!

The train track expansion pack!

Wow!

The first expansion route.

Who wants a cookie!?

Bella waiting patiently for her walk.

Arlo on his potty, in the privacy of his living room.

A very cool figure-eight with elevated u-turn. (That's the technical term.)

The pre-bed "finger-in-socket" look. Hollywood fashionistas pay thousands for this 'do.

Wefie! Uniqlo should be paying us royalties!

"Smile!" she said. (Not, "show me all your teeth!")

Excited by our final Pandemic purchase: the picture encyclopedia! Wow, so much to learn!

Bangkok Week 669

April 22, 2021

The last few days of the Songkran holiday; and Bella starts to settle into her new home… if Arlo will let her!

Arlo celebrates the morning by jumping on the couch; safety oversight provided by Bella.

Checking to see how Bella slept last night.

Trying to give Bella a bath. Better luck next time.

Checking to see how Bella's nap is going; it had been going well.

Visiting Nong Bon Lake Park: the only dog-friendly public park in Bangkok.

Thanks to the shaded foot paths and water on both sides, it was a very pleasant 3pm walk.

Arlo running after Dad and Bella.

We think Arlo walked about 600 meters!

His feet can't quite move fast enough.

Everyone taking a rest and a water break before we turn around.

Look! A sail boat.

And kayaks, and sail boards...

Arlo famously directing traffic.

Practicing his modeling poses.

Breaking character; here's a smile.

Back at home, rested, and practicing our fine motor skills.

Uh oh! Here comes the monster!

Intently reading about how, someday, he'll be as big as mommy & daddy.

Dad gets Arlo on his lap, and Mum gets Bella.

Now lucky Mum gets everyone.

Bella looks like she's lived here for years.

Checking to see if Bella is sleeping.

Nice kiss on the ear for Bella.

Hug for Bella.

Maybe Bella's starting to wish she were back at her foster home!

Arlo's favorite time of the day on Saturday: window washing time!

Sunday morning: oh no! Last day of the Songkran holiday.

Learning about all the different bugs and insects in his picture dictionary.

Is Arlo ready to skateboard on his stomach?

No, let's watch Dad try first!

Bella, inserting herself in the activities.

Uh oh! Where did Arlo go?

The living room has been taken over by a little ghost!

A little ghost with a long tail!

Arlo's excited to replicate the tower from a 1-year-old photo.

Morning kiss for Bella.

The Flamingo (as Arlo calls it) is fully open now.

Bella, getting used to the jungle outside.

Dad's riding the skateboard is the funniest thing!

Just checking to make sure Bella's nap is undisturbed.

Spending the morning upstairs with Mum; this snoopy door mat is not too shabby.

Someone's getting sleepy.

Look at this photo of a duvet cover on the couch.

Arlo's having a grand time in his pool, with k. Noi.

Splash splash!

Calling a foul ball.

Smiling; the weekend is almost here!

Observing all the end-of-day traffic.

"Where did Dad go? Where did Dad go?"

"Where did Arlo go? Where did Arlo go??"

Bangkok Week 668

April 15, 2021

Welcome to a Songkran Holiday, COVID Edition, Season 2, Part 1 edition of our photos. What was meant to be a week of water parks, zoos, and other day trips turned into the adoption of Bella the Dog!

Arlo begins this week practicing his stacking skills...

...and he impresses even himself!

Spending time on the balcony, in lieu of end-of-day walks, these days.

Jackpot: this bucket has a nice big sticker on the bottom.

Exhausted, but with new car in hand, after visiting his friends Freddie and Phiebi for brunch.

Working on the sticker on the back of a book.

Reading "Just like my Daddy", complete with Apple Prop (since that's what Daddy eats in the book).

Our Heliconia ("Lobster Claw") plant is starting to bloom.

Arlo has about 30 seconds of patience for drawing.

Reading his current favorite book, about the tiny people who rescue a kitten.

Dad's eating a peanut butter sandwich; Arlo's not sure why he only has ice.

Diligently watering all the plants

Sitting cross-legged.

Playing in the pool: a great time to drink from the garden hose.

Shh, no one saw that!

Trying to catch the water, or avoid it?

More opportunity to drink.

Catch the water!

And connecting his trains: he's a pro now.

Today marks the first of the 3 official Songkran holidays.

Arlo likes his new shirt; don't you, too?

This is why we needed a wardrobe change, however.

But first, one photo with all the Songkran shirts on.

And mopping up the floor, while he's at it.

New shirt, new lease on life!

Eye on the prize.

Hug hug for the playmobile man.

Arlo and his masterpiece.

Today (Songkran + Arlo is running a fever) calls for a new taxi!

But silly Mum. Arlo can't have just one new taxi...

And having some ice cream, since that's all he would eat.

Arlo's gotten good at connecting his train tracks.

Really concentrating on driving the train.

Arlo turns 19 months today. Time to measure up!

Arlo doesn't know what's in store for him this morning.

It's a meet-and-greet with Bella.

Uh-oh! Looks like she got in the car with us!

Arlo is wondering how we ended up in this situation.

And this is how things looked by the time we got back to our house.

Bed for Bella? Arlo thinks not!

Well then, this couch will have to do.

Not quite sure about this new house yet.

Arlo's sizing up this new housemate too.

Taking a good look at her.

Meanwhile: our Heliconia continues to open up.

Arlo practices his driving skills with Dad... who can't see the road ahead because of the big hair blocking his vision.

Arlo found another sticker to work on.

Caught in the act: talking to Bella.

The next morning, just checking in with Bella to make sure everything is okay.

Yup, nose is still there.

A little morning kiss.

A little sheepish after that kiss?

Then at long last, we made it up to Phanphirom Park for a mid-morning visit.

It's a surprisingly well-maintained, surprisingly green urban park.

Other than those gardeners in the background, we were literally the only ones there. So Arlo's rightly walking around like he owns the place.

Checking out the exercise equipment.

Watcha doing over there, Dad?

Spinning this exercise wheel: the mother of all steering wheels.

Continuing his exploration.

Look at this nice, big playground.

Dad found his toy.

And Arlo found his.

Arlo even went down the slide a few times...

...including once on his own.

Taking a short rest.

Checking out the exercise equipment one last time.

Excited by all the new trees (and their droppings).

Back at home: one is Arlo's cookie, and one is Bella's. Can you tell which is which?

Reading by himself.

Bella getting to know her garden.

Using the iPad as originally intended: to view tractor photos!

Bangkok Week 667

April 8, 2021

Another busy week for Arlo, as we head into the Songkran break: last Bangkok Prep for the term, last week of swimming, and maybe other ‘lasts’ for a while too, depending on how this latest wave of COVID plays out.

Lucky Arlo is accompanied by a special guest to school today.

Reading stories with his Yaa.

Showing her how he can do arts and crafts all by himself.

Arlo's first unassisted artwork.

And getting in some quality train time.

Oh look! It's Alba!

Having lunch with Yaa and Puu before they head home.

All together now.

Oh no! Is it really time to go?

Arlo says, "see you again soon, Yaa!"

Checking out a new book of trucks, and a package Dad got in the mail.

Really eager to go on his end-of-week walk.

Arlo knows exactly where to sit!

Today is Granny's birthday! We need to make her a sign!

Happy Birthday, Granny!

Best way to spend a Saturday morning: looking at vehicles with Dad.

Ekkamai Playgroup: haven't been here in almost 6 months!

Having some quiet time to himself in the snack room.

Arlo's becoming a pro at sliding down slides.

Checking out the water play.

And participating in circle time before we leave.

Not sure if he wants to sing along...

... or just give the teacher a good stare-down.

Back at home, Arlo works away at his hammering block... with the best hammer of all: a bus.

Sunday morning, reading about they very Hungry Caterpillar's Sunday feast. How apt!

Insisting on playing outside, despite the recent rain.

The creepy heart plant is in bloom again!

And it's watching you!

Check out all the eyes at the end of the antennae.

Arlo's getting very good at imitating Mum.

That's all she does all day: sit on this chair and face forward.

This is what Sundays are for! Ice cream!

Arlo got a new set of stacking blocks. And these even come with straws to peel off!

Time for another Monday morning trip to the hospital...

... this time for a visit with the dentist! Oh no!

Back home: Arlo survived.

Poke Mum's tongue.

Reading the back of Gruffalo's Child.

Happy BirthYAY, Auntie Jasmine!

And here are (some of) the outtakes.

Dad's work friends are here to spend the holiday Tuesday with Arlo.

No doubt, he's the center of attention.

How many people can roll the tractor with Arlo?

Roll the tractor.

But wait! How many people can read a book with Arlo!?

Showing Dad's friends all his toys...

... and how he can zip through his tunnel.

Oh wait, there are even more toys over here to show off.

And the moment we've all been waiting for: pizza!

Well, Arlo sure had fun playing host this morning.

Capping off the day with a visit to everyone's favorite Decathalon.

Trying on some sandals. (They fit his narrow feet well; maybe we should have gotten them!)

Measuring up, so we know what size bike to get him.

Back at home, showing off his newfound belt.

Having a snack: delicious multi-grain bread, where Arlo picks out all the nuts and berries.

And demonstrating his new favorite pastime: sticker peeling.

Enjoying some late evening balcony time.

Watching the bikes and cars going by.

Hello!

Arlo put together the bee puzzle all by himself!! And he's very proud.

Last day of swimming for the term.

It was a nice small class.

Getting ready for a swim.

Swimming to Mum.

And helping to build a tower.

Last long swim for Arlo for a while. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 666

April 1, 2021

A busy weekend; and then lucky Arlo has another visit with his Puu and Yaa.

Arlo goes to school for cooking now!

Early exposure to Bangkok traffic.

Back at home, starting to play with his trains (on their tracks).

Waiting patiently for his bath.

Arlo's favorite Saturday morning entertainment.

Saying hi to the dog in the lobby of the Hilton, which hosted the latest BAMBI yard sale.

Arlo's excited by his yard sale steal.

Celebrating the weekend the right way: with ice cream.

"What? Who said I ate ice cream?"

Group shot.

Eagle-eyed Arlo spotted this tractor at Big C. How exciting; a tractor in the wild.

Enjoying another afternoon snack.

Highlight of the afternoon: getting sprayed by K. Wan.

It gets better every time!

And riding the bucking bronco right before bed: a good way to wind down.

Gourmet pizzas for dinner (one from France, one from Spain) and a quality Thai wine.

Arlo shows off his newest trick: tractor-sitting.

Taken with Dad's iPad.

And zooming around his roads.

Excited to be riding an escalator: almost as good as what we came here for...

... trains! taxis! busses!

What a great view. And it's all ours.

Just two boys, watching their vehicles zoom by.

If only Arlo could stay all day.

Back at home, lunch in the garden.

And more tractor-sitting.

Holding a car in one hand, and pointing at cars with the other.

And a late afternoon trip to Sansiri Backyard, to get a small taste of farm life.

It's Arlo's first time seeing chickens in real life.

They're fascinating. But not quite like the ones in the books.

A convenient place to rest.

There's also a duck pond.

Filled with giant gold fish.

This is also Arlo's first time seeing so many ducks up close.

Waving to the ducks.

Penultimate stop: the nursery.

Arlo found himself a nice new fan, and he's quite pleased with it.

Looking at the pretty flowers.

Browsing: which one to take home?

Need time to think about it: too many choices.

And last stop before heading home: ice cream!

Mum's on dinner duty tonight. More spaghetti bolognese!

After almost 18 months of waiting, we finally have Master's citizenship certificate. Hooray!

Bedtime stories.

Back at school on Tuesday.

Please note: school is only for serious kids. No fun here.

Dabbling in the water table.

One of Arlo's favorite stories right now.

Practicing his drawing...

... and enjoying a snack with friends.

The renovations at the entrance to the neighborhood are almost complete.

Doesn't it look better already?

Hanging out with, I mean on, Dad.

Dad doesn't need to see to steer, right?

Zoom zoom. Arlo's getting good at driving his trike now.

Showing how well he can brush his teeth... when he's in the mood.

Helping Mum with her work on the way to bed.

Thursday already! Arlo has quite the audience for swimming this week.

Another big class.

Arlo was really into jumping this week.

Arms up up up!

And jump!

Balancing entirely on his own in the noodle.

Highlight of the class: slide!

And swim.

Stopping at Donki on the way home. Arlo couldn't help but ride the escalator.

A few times.

Hanging out with his Puu and Yaa.

Lunch time!

Just chilling.

Arlo enjoys having his grandparents around.

See you next week! Arlo will be here, reading his car books.

Bangkok Week 665

March 25, 2021

Arlo meets up with Sally after many months; and gets to go to swimming TWICE this week!

The best way to start the week: Tractor photos!

Dad's Friday afternoon project.

Arlo seems disappointed that we're on the verge of the weekend.

Saturday morning shopping at Max Value. Arlo is thrilled.

Picking out the cheese he wants.

Reading Hop on Pop.

What a sweet book.

The boys, riding up to Sally's apartment.

Sally kindly lent Arlo her highchair.

Arlo takes a close look at Sally's snack.

Inspecting each other's snacks.

Sally takes a bite of the star fruit...

... and then kindly offers Arlo a bite, too.

In exchange, Arlo shoves a carrot into Sally's eye.

Next up, time for some fun in the pool!

Kindly offering Arlo one of her toys.

Catching the water fountain.

This is fun! Much more fun than at our house.

Partners in crime.

Then we celebrated no-pants Sunday. Arlo's thrilled.

Wefie.

Arlo practices his bubble-blowing skills.

Uh oh! One bubble!

Wrestling.

Something outside is really funny.

And celebrating the weekend with some ice cream.

At the park, the playgrounds are open again! Arlo's getting comfortable on the slide now.

And this springy thing is... well, novel.

Arlo would much rather chase the pigeons, though.

So many pigeons.

Zoom zoom. An Arlo action shot.

The boys, resting.

And soaking up some water fountains before heading back.

This is a special week: Arlo gets to go to swimming twice!

He can't believe his luck! Swimming on a Monday.

Surfing through the waterfall.

And kick-kick-kicking with teacher James.

It was a nice small group.

Back at home, striking some modeling poses.

Looks natural.

Uh oh! The tunnel swallowed Mum.

Arlo's solution: chuck all the toys into the tunnel then.

Some early morning books with Mum on Tuesday.

And a quick wefie.

Then Arlo was back to school with K. Noi.

Playing with all the toys Arlo doesn't have at home.

Look at this: almost a perfect family portrait.

And just like that, it's time for another swimming lesson!

Lots of jumping into the water for Arlo today.

And Arlo's normal swimming friends.

Look, no hands!

Arlo was fascinated by the drip coming down from the slide.

Walking on water!

And for his good swimming lesson, Arlo gets a rocket cookie.

Savoring his cookie.

We close this week with a breaking update: renovation on the entrance to our Moo Baan has started!

Bangkok Week 664

March 18, 2021

Master Arlo turns 1 1/2 years old this week! And what a busy week it was!

Back at the Bangkok Prep Playgroup: Arlo is thrilled.

Snack time: is Arlo getting all the attention because he brought his own cheese stick?

Tuckered out from school, but practicing his soccer moves at home.

Helping Dad with an afternoon construction project.

Sitting in the middle of the tracks: where the fun is at.

Arlo, speed-reading his book before bed.

On Saturday morning, Arlo and Mum head off to a playgroup (by Grab) while Dad is at work.

Arlo is thrilled to be at this playgroup.

Wondering if there's anything more exciting in this house.

A nice spacious house; but no wheels.

Splashing around in the water table.

The toy all the way on the other side is better.

Maybe this car is more fun?

Well, it does have a nice steering wheel.

Snack break.

One last spin of this steering wheel.

Heading back down the way we came up.

Later that day, Arlo hosted 2 of Mum's colleagues from the Philippines, here for a few months.

Practicing his balance.

Look what Dad brought back for Arlo after his long day at work! (It was a gift from a colleague.)

Arlo turns 1 1/2 years old today! Time for the monthly measure-up.

No better way to celebrate than a shopping cart ride at Big C.

Celebrating Arlo's half-birthday with leftover cake.

Someone can't wait.

One of Arlo's new favorite activities: escalator-riding. He's thrilled; can't you tell?

The playgrounds in the park are open again!

But Arlo the Explorer prefers the wilds of the grass and trees.

Time to go home already!?

Monday morning, Arlo enjoys this play house... but he has a feeling something's amiss.

His hunch is right! He's here for 2 shots and a blood test. Oh no!

Well, this train is a bit of consolation.

Back at school on Tuesday morning.

This is a pretty nifty ball toy!

Playing at the popular water table.

Snack time: these look delish.

Back at home, Arlo's maxed out his socialization credits for the day, and would rather hang out under the couch.

Arlo guilts Mum into giving him a new taxi, after all the trauma of yesterday.

Wednesday-morning: neighbor-spotting.

And back at school for another playgroup.

Taking stock, and wondering what to do next.

A bit of two-handed drawing seems fun.

Arlo? Or the Great Baby Samurai of Ekkamai?

Arlo was ant-spotting, and his subject disappeared under the couch.

Arlo's thrilled to be back at swimming, despite a bit of a runny nose.

Let's get this class started, eh guys?

Warming up with the noodle...

... and then trying to balance on our own.

Look! Arlo's doing all the work!

Standing on his favorite side-table.

Arlo: King of the Neighborhood.

Someone insisted on getting out of his stroller and sitting next to Mum.

Trying to take some nice family wefies.

Arlo shows off his best smile.

Arlo will personally see you next week. See you real close.

Bangkok Week 663

March 11, 2021

Another busy week for Arlo: he starts going to “school”, meets another Arlo, and has lots of fun swimming, of course!

Arlo says bye-bye to his Puu and Yaa, who are heading home to Trat.

And then it's off to school for Arlo.

So many new cars to ride...

... and people to meet.

Playing at the water table.

And making a phone call. (How does Arlo know this is a phone?)

Snack time! French toast and fruit.

And Arlo's first arts & crafts creation. (It's since been destroyed.)

Pooped after a long morning at school.

Enjoying bed time stories with Dad.

Chatting with Granny and Grandpa on Saturday morning.

Learning to smile for the camera.

Driving with his new steering wheel.

At the Adopt-a-Puppy Cafe: meeting little puppy Arlo!

Arlo's not interested in Arlo.

One last chance to talk to Arlo; but Arlo's distracted. Too many people at this cafe!

Next stop: riding an escalator at Emporium. One of Arlo's new favorite activities!

And train-spotting (from far, far away).

Checking out all the manga at Kinokuniya. So many colors!

And patiently hanging out while mum uses the bathroom.

A quick stop at the park, to chase birds, and read Arlo's new book.

The wildlife explorers, returning to their base.

This is Arlo, "riding a horse".

And hiding in the bushes.

Watching an enthralling game of volleyball.

Saturday special: fresh Indian food!

Quick morning pop-over to Conkey's, to pick up brekkie and some treats for the afternoon.

Enjoying his freshly baked croissant.

Trying on his flip-flops. Not yet satisfied... but we'll get there.

Another attempt at finger painting.

This picture is deceiving; subject in the mirror is not as happy as he may appear.

Maybe the blue bottle is less sticky than this paint.

Ugh. Look at this stuff all over my hands.

Now look. My hands are all red.

Much better: clean, dry story time with Dad.

Well, we're on a topless roll now. Let's have some lunch, too.

Enjoying the water fountains.

Monday morning bird-spotting.

Arlo and his favorite tractor.

The season's early rains are upon us!

Arlo's taken an interest in helmets.

This helmet is fun!

Wefie!

Stars and socks: Arlo's very serious about his evening outfit.

Hanging out with Lion, waiting for bed time.

Reading books with Puu.

Off to swimming!

Excited to be back.

So excited, he can't sit down.

Concentrating on the ball.

Having fun with the noodle...

... and balancing all on his own.

Good dive, Arlo!

Coloring with Puu.

And eating a giant ice cube for lunch.

Nothing to see here; just a very soggy boy and his ice cube!

Wardrobe change; and now time for some exercise.

Practicing balancing sitting on his volley ball.

Oh boy! Fresh butter cake from Dad's friend.

This is Arlo's excited face.

I'll try that!

And the grass is always greener! Enjoy!

Bangkok Week 662

March 4, 2021

We all enjoyed a 3-day weekend, and lucky Arlo enjoyed another visit from his Puu and Yaa.

We start this long-weekend with good-byes to Puu and Yaa, who are heading back to Trat. They'll be back soon!

Arlo tries his hardest to see what's happening on the other side of the fence.

Goofy smile!

Morning amusement in the office.

Riding the train! Arlo gets to ride the train! How fun.

Visiting the newly-opened Bumpsy Daisy, owned by Midwife Emma.

There were so many new toys, and Arlo was the only kid!

Test-driving some of the new cars around town.

An eye-level parking garage.

The cafe is designed so parents can sit, and keep an eye on their kids.

The barista took us on a tour to the second floor (which is reserved for the littlest babies).

Nevertheless, Arlo enjoyed himself thoroughly with the soft mats and low mirrors.

Riding home again after a fun afternoon out.

Just winding down with some tractors.

Saturday morning: prime time entertainment.

And then a trip to IKEA, before it gets too crowded. Arlo knows which chair is meant for him!

Reading the display book - it's a new one for Arlo.

Sitting down for a pizza break.

Fast-casual dining with a shark.

Elsewhere in IKEA: the display "laptops" have been updated to reflect the new reality.

Stopping to wash up after that pizza.

Arlo makes himself at home on a surface he rightly identified as "nice and soft".

Uh oh. There's no leaving until after nap time now.

This two-faced lion cushion is a hit.

And stopping for a quick treat before heading home: only 1 day left until Mum's Baskin Robbins voucher expires!

Pooped! What a trip!

Someone really wanted to wear Dad's belt: and here it is. Voila!

Helping Mum try her new pillow: our one IKEA purchase.

Blown away by his own art skils.

Wowzers!

Wishing he could be outside with K. Wan.

Sunday morning: Dad proudly photographs his masterpiece.

Lucky Arlo has a morning visit from his friends P'Quinn and P'Rohan.

Storytime: everyone wants to hear about the earthworms.

So good, Quinn pulls up to hear how it ends.

Arlo's latest entertainment (when the washing machine's not running): ice!

It's smooth on the lips, too.

Going out to check out this "Specialty Coffee" coffee truck while it's still in the neighborhood.

Pricey, but good to know what "great" tastes like here in Bangkok.

Repotting Arlo's two surviving lime plants.

Arlo's Yaa says they need big pots and daily water.

Arlo approves of the workmanship.

"Huh? Me?"

Resting and recharging on Dad.

Whatcha lookin' at, Lady?

Arlo wanted to wear a helmet; this is the only one we've got.

On second thought...

... maybe there are better kinds of hats.

Kiss kiss for Dino.

And kiss kiss back for Arlo!

Sunday night dinner: oven-fresh leftover pizza.

Good Monday morning!

Food tastes better when there's a big foot nearby to help.

It's splash time!

What a great way to spend an afternoon.

Lucky Arlo! Look what K. Noi brought him!

Thrilled by his new bus!

Time for some music!

Highlight of the music class: these fountains outside the hotel.

Only Mum and Arlo on the walk tonight.

Arlo has a special guest with him at swimming this week.

Someone's ready for his lesson.

Let's go, let's go!

Not really into this board, but he'll give it a try anyway.

Can't quite get that ring on top of Mum's head.

The moment Arlo's been waiting all week for: Hungry Hungry Firetruck!

And the post-slide swim.

That was fun!

Totally tuckered out after his swim.

Playing with his Yaa.

And shaking hands with Puu.

Goofy Arlo, making everyone laugh.

Three generations saying, "see you next week!"

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