Bangkok Week 788

August 3, 2023

Can you believe it’s August already!? It’s also a long weekend in Thailand, with a holiday Friday and another one the following Tuesday. So after a visit to Safari Garden, we headed down to Trat for the annual merit-making ceremony. The house is coming along slowly but surely; and oh, we think we found the perfect next car!

Welcome back! It's a holiday Friday, and these monkeys are already up to no good. So it's time to get out of the house...

... and to Safari Garden!

We haven't been here in over a year; Lucy was a newborn.

And now, she's courageously sliding down all the slides by herself.

Here comes Arlo. His confidence has increased since last time we were here, too.

And here comes Lucy...

... another successful slide!

Arlo's showing her how to drive the train.

Diligently checking for oncoming traffic.

Lucy's two passengers. Hang on!

Enjoying himself in the sand much more than he used to.

Mum, and her two koalas in a tree fork.

Looking out of the tree house...

...and out toward the swimming pool.

Lucy, another slide?

Arlo's trying his first good old-fashioned see saw. They don't have these at Benchasiri Park!

Lucy's enjoying the tire swing -- and she very quickly figured out how to keep the swing going!

Of his own volition, Arlo scaled the climbing wall.

And the zip line is open for riders! Queueing up patiently...

... getting strapped in...

... and wee! We're off! How fun!

Arlo's decided to pilot himself and Lucy home.

Just kidding! We have two pooped kiddos, neither of whom would have been fit to fly a plane.

A good koala show, with his favorite pal, is always a recipe for R&R.

Lucy's eager to take herself for a walk later.

Uh oh. Someone just woke up with a giant case of bedhead.

Hi Lucy! Hi Dad! Arlo just wants to go for a bike ride before dinner.

Ooh! Look what's growing on a vine down the street.

Bitter melons!

Lucy the monkey, up to her tricks!

Arlo has taken to photography recently.

And he's very good at capturing those candid moments..!

Saturday morning; everyone's up and fresh.

Family of monkeys.

Two monkeys, riding the horse.

We've got our koalas, and we're hitting the road: destination Trat!

Stubborn little Lucy didn't want to nap during the ride, but fell asleep minutes from Puu and Yaa's house.

A greeter has come to welcome Lucy!

Thank you, Bella, for the abrupt awakening!

Lucy wasted no time jumping onto the Trat toys.

Check out the mirror on this trike!

Although her legs aren't yet long enough to pedal, she managed to propel herself forward with 1 foot! Impressive.

Pressure-testing Bella's nose.

Putting the stacking ring on Bella's wrist like a bracelet. Maybe this is why Bella moved to Trat!

Hello, Bella. Are you in there? Are you wishing you weren't?

Lucy was really keen to spend time outside, but it's peak dengue season, and Trat is leading in cases.

Welcome back from the hospital, Dad! 5 stitches and some blood loss later, Dad is patched up and ready to resume his visit.

Feeding some almost-Eucalyptus to the koalas.

Lucy's making herself at home in the bedroom.

Poor Puu spent the whole weekend trying to teach Lucy how to say "Puu".

Monkey Lucy, munching on a foam piece of the sofa.

Night night, boys! It's been a long and eventful day!

The next morning, Arlo wastes no time finding excuses to play with the cats...

... while everyone else gets ready for the merit-making ceremony. Lucy takes a good look at her great-grandparents.

Waiting patiently for the ceremony to start.

Dad, too!

Arlo discovered the delicious sweet, seedless grapes that will be part of the monks' dessert. Yum!

Milk break for tireless Lucy.

Lucy did pretty well being passed around among several new faces.

Hey, she eats the same foam sofa pieces too, Lucy! Imagine that!

Trying some Durian dessert, while waiting for the monks to arrive.

Beginning the ceremony.

And now, with the monks.

Lucy was comfortable taking a front-row seat.

Good job just sitting there, Lucy!

And the part Arlo's been looking forward to all week: tossing the coins!

It's fun for all ages!

Arlo just needs to learn how to through evenly to all people!

Trying out one of the guest's e-bikes. Almost the right size!

And doing a tour of Aa Top's shop.

Helping tidy up: dusting Bella.

To reward them for being so good in the morning, it's a late afternoon trip to Makro... to see the forklifts in action...

... to visit the aquarium...

... and to ride in the giant shopping cart!

Evening milk time!

Lucy's getting a little helping hand from Yaa.

Early Monday morning: everyone's up and ready to hit the road again.

But not before some goodbye photos.

Lucy with her grandparents.

And the same photo, with older monkey Arlo.

And with Aa Top and Bella.

Lucy's enthusiasm is waning.

All together now!

Great smile, Bella!

All packed in, and ready to go.

Very quick pitstop at a posh cafe, so that Arlo could use the toilet.

But so nice, Lucy intended to stay all day!

And finally, back home!

The house around the corner, which has been under renovation for many months now, is almost done -- and going to be a beauty clinic.

Unclear what triggered this creepy expression...

... but he's got something in mind!

Quick trip up to the Toyota dealership to check out the all new Innova Zenix!

Apart from the stylish brown seats, it ticks all the boxes!

Plenty of room in the 3rd row...

And definitely plenty of room in the 2nd row. This looks like a winner!

When we returned home, Arlo was hard at work...

... drawing a really great car!

Lucy's new favorite food, and toy, is ice!

She can also say, "iiiiiiice". Is it cold, Lucy?

Quick visit to the house. The various pipes and tubes are running all through the kitchen.

The new wall dividing the kitchen and the bathroom is up.

The mini-wall dividing the dining area and the kitchen is finished, too.

The new closet area of the master bedroom.

And the master bathroom coming along.

The water boiler is installed; the ceiling will need to be slightly dropped.

Arlo's taking a trip with Dad...

... a nice opportunity to do some car-spotting and get some snacks.

Meanwhile, Mum is off by electric tuk-tuk to run some errands.

The ice cube club...

... both members enthusiastically enjoying their ice cubes.

Chef Arlo is helping Dad cook dinner tonight.

He's doing a great job preparing the greens, carefully selecting them...

... and chopping them up into bite-sized pieces.

But he just can't help himself; let's pretend this is eucalyptus!!

Two important pieces of equipment for our trip arrived today!

Lucy doesn't know what it is, but she's excited, because Arlo is.

Powerful pink for Arlo, and beautiful blue for Lucy.

Party in the bedroom on Thursday morning.

And then Arlo has his 6-month eye check-up.

After a mixed-result wall test, he's looking at the tiny photo of the barn instead.

Now that the pressure to read numbers and letters is gone, Arlo's enjoying himself in the mini-park.

Admiring the tuk-tuk he got after the visit.

And testing out the headphones. Important to get practice in before the flights.

Bangkok Week 787

July 27, 2023

We’re still working our way through sickness and fever, but everyone’s in top spirits. We had a fun morning at Playville, a weekend full of painting and pillows, and after an unintended hiatus, some ice skating, too. Oh, and Mum went for a big chop.

(I would be remiss if I didn’t flag that, with the conclusion of Week 787 ✈️ , we’ve now worked our way through the whole Boeing passenger portfolio!)

It's Friday morning and the kids are with just us today -- let the fun begin!

This girl is feeling herself again now.

We're the door-busters at Playville today.

To quote Lucy, "Ball! Ball! Ball! Ball!"

Arlo was just here the other week, so he feels right at home.

Look, balancing!

And tending to the chickens in the coop.

Lucy is enjoying herself with all the balls!

And climbing up into the treehouse.

Everyone down the slide!

These balls are hard to move around in, eh Lucy? It's an acquired skill!

Arlo is enjoying himself gardening.

And Dad gives them a tour of the makeup table.

Sliiiiide.

And again!!

Making a pot of tea...

... and chasing her big brother up the rock climb.

Perhaps playing in the balls at the bottom of the big slide is not the best idea!

Reading a book that we don't have at home.

And more slides for Lucy! She must've done this slide upward of two dozen times.

Princess Leia buns!

And squeezing himself into a volcano.

That afternoon, it's a walk around the Moo Baan, after everyone's had their naps.

Lucy's new favorite chair.

Some might argue he's had this coming for him.

Happy Saturday! Lucy is sporting a beautiful unicorn dress from Marlies.

Two workers, busy at the construction site. (Where are your hard hats?)

Riding the horse.

Arlo's too unwell to swim this afternoon, so this is a good alternative activity.

Arlo dives right in! What a difference school makes!

This lady, on the other hand, is still figuring out what painting is all about.

Tap tap tap!

Resist the urge, Lucy!

The slapping technique.

Your face betrays you, Lucy.

And late afternoon cycle around the neighborhood with new cycling pall, Auntie Bell.

Lucy's having a good laugh with the girl in the mirror; they haven't seen each other in a while.

We both have so many teeth!

What!? It's still the weekend?

Tanking up, before a quick trip to K-Village.

What a bonus! We parked right behind a Porsche 911.

Lucy looks like a seasoned shopper.

There was a balance bike race going on, so we watched for a while...

... and then enjoyed playing on their small swing set.

Slide, Lucy!

Arlo managed to traverse the suspended bridge.

And back home for lunch.

More painting while Lucy naps: this time with leftover Tempra paint from school, available in 2 colors only.

Better than any playground, Arlo and Lucy had a blast flinging themselves around on the bed.

Surprisingly, there were no tears!

Only laughs!

Arlo created some kind of follow-on game that involved going fishing for diapers. Oh well!

Have I shared an update about the tall balcony cactus in a while? Well, it's got a ridiculously tall and lanky top paddle now.

P'Noi brought eucalyptus back for Arlo from her hometown.

He wasted no time setting it up in the tree and feeding it to the koalas!

Look at our little Raggedy Ann doll.

We're off! It's a much-delayed visit to...

... the ice rink again!

Here's Arlo, with his pal, Penguin #5. He'd been talking about Penguin #5 for weeks!

I must say, the Penguins give him confidence and speed!

And the whole session, we only took one break!

Someone was so warm, he wanted to take off his jacket while watching the ice resurfacing machine!

Mini-me is trying on Mum's skating fleece. It just about fits!

And now, Arlo's giving "Mum" a big hug.

Lucy's new favorite accessory.

Her bowler hat!

At long last, Mum makes it to the salon...

... for a big chop!

Before and after. I'd say it turned out alright!

Lucy's still wearing her hat.

Own it, Lucy!

Going for a late-afternoon stroll with P'Noi and P'Arlo.

Arlo, Lucy, and this new short-haired lady.

Our little gangsta, in his outfit from Great Aunt Chris.

Hey, we stumbled upon the only year-round snowman in Bangkok. He's looking a bit limp.

Trying out toilets and shopping for bathroom fixtures and fittings.

Lucky Arlo! P'Noi is treating him to an ice cream!

Early group shower tonight, thanks to an explosive diaper and someone else who didn't want to miss out on the action. Mohawk!

Mum and her squeaky-clean babies.

Self-portrait by Arlo.

And we close this week with a very serious self-portrait. See you next time!

Bangkok Week 786

July 20, 2023

Lucy’s slowly recovering and feeling like herself again after her hospital stay. Arlo has a great playdate with P’Kate. And we have a double milestone week: Arlo turns 3 years 10 months, while Lucy turns 1 year and 4 months old!

Since coming home from the hospital, this is pretty much how we're rolling.

It's also the 14th, and our big boy is 3 years and 10 months old today!

Lucy is trying to make her self comfortable back at home.

For example, by sitting in a box.

And Arlo is intent on learning how to read!

Our healthy boy is still well enough for swimming lessons.

Kicking with Teacher Big.

The lengths Arlo does are getting longer and longer!

Practicing his helicopter arms, and side breathing.

Back at home, honing his excavator driving skills. It requires concentration!

Smile! Happy to be home.

Oh my! Mum and Lucy have just seen a ghost!

Saturday morning: we're supposed to be meeting P'Kate and her family at the park.

One of Lucy's first times on the swings.

And she really wanted to ride this springy thing.

Everyone on the springy thingies!

Driving the jet skis with utmost concentration.

Arlo's leading his sister up the slide.

Working out how to get up there too.

Happy to be on the playground, despite the direct sun!

Lucy's really enjoying the swing.

Playing tic-tac-toe.

One-handed driving!

Finally remembering to feed the fish with the dry bread in the backpack.

Lucy's enjoying her balls in the shade.

And having a nice picnic.

But where is P'Kate after all this?

Here she is!

Arlo and P'Kate played so well together; they're on the same wavelength! Here, fixing the car at the mechanic.

Climbing mountains...

... playing hide-and-seek.

Hmm! Where could they be hiding?

After Mum counts to 10, she's never going to find them!

Hiding in their tent.

There's no finding them...

... they're definitely not inside this box!

And then, hard working Arlo has another swimming lesson!

More helicopter arms!

Demonstrating to his peers how to dive.

Lucy is slowly starting to feel like herself again.

In fact, she's resumed her chores already!

Wardrobe change!

Who wore it better!?

Wow, thinks Lucy. This bed stool is pretty comfy!

Big hugs for bear.

Low-key Sunday activity: everyone's favorite store, Decathlon!

Arlo's showing Lucy how to work the shopping basket.

But Lucy is wasting no time picking out all the things she'd like.

High-five, friend!

Is this bouncy ball actually fun, Arlo?

Trying on some potential new shoes.

And we can't leave without trying the trampoline!

Back at home, Lucy shows Arlo her snazzy new shoes.

Lunch time: Kosher Israeli food!

Showing off all her teeth.

Weekend activity: watching his favorite (and only) Netflix show, side-by-side with his pal Chompy.

Lucky Arlo! Dad ordered more ice cream, at his request.

And bonus! The ice cream comes with dry ice.

Our little scientist knows exactly what happens when you add room-temperature water to dry ice.

Is the smoke cold?

This bicycle pinwheel was Arlo's big Decathlon purchase.

Surprise! One of the Aunties in the neighborhood just bought a bike, too! So now, Arlo has a biking pal.

There they go!

Then out came Lucy, ready to walk as well and try out her new shoes.

Dad and Daughter!

This is the face of someone with an idea!

And there's the idea.

Lucy's personality is back.

Emulating her brother!

Reaching for her new water bottle.

What she really wants is Mum's office water cup!

Two monkeys, hard at work.

Taking out all the ice cubes.

So cold!

Trying on the one sweatshirt we have for her; it fits! (I think this was a gift from Auntie Erika.)

A cute, cute dress from Sally.

And Arlo's made himself a car with a spoiler.

The doll is munching on her ice.

Big smile!

Arlo's studying car design evolution.

Reading to himself while Dad works.

Pretending to nap. Not very well, I might add.

The doll, with her peanut butter jar.

Someone knows how to do screw lids already.

Big hug for my cute little warrior.

Between the bell and the pinwheel, Arlo's bike is a play center by itself!

Where's Waldo?

She's right here, looking for her snaps.

No Lucy, you may not sleep there tonight!

One new skill Lucy learned during her hospital stay: how to write with a pencil.

Ooh, crayons seem pretty fun too!

Arlo's doing a great job coloring in the calendar.

Oh my, it's not even 8am yet!

Quick visit to the house to check on the progress.

Still good and dusty inside, but they're making progress too.

The plumbing for the new bathroom.

More new plumbing.

The new walls are going up on the 3rd floor.

The little "hallway" is shaping up.

Nice wall of the new bathroom.

Inside the new bathroom.

And of course, stopping at the playground for a few minutes.

Arlo can't wait to move here.

Thursday morning, someone's up early.

Group smile!

Someone wanted to go for a walk first thing. So let's roll with it!

Getting his early morning energy out.

This little warrior turns 1 year and 4 months old today!

And the kiddos also have their 6-month dentist visit today.

Diligently reading up about COVID-19.

Waiting so patiently!

Arlo's up first... and he can sit on the chair all by himself now!

Lucy's up next; it's her first time getting the fluoride treatment.

Oh my! Arlo got a "fire gun" from the dentist as a prize.

Whereas Lucy got this cool bracelet / anklet.

Lucy knows this play area all too well now.

Slide!

Enjoying his favorite mini-park.

Arlo will sit here, and sip his tea. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 785

July 13, 2023

The week started off great, with several swimming lessons, and a fun bike ride at Nong Bon Park. But it was downhill after that, culminating in a hospital stay from Salmonella infection for Little Lucy. Oh dear!

We begin this week with a studious little boy, practicing his pen control.

Oh my, these are getting harder!

Then it's Friday swimming for Lucy.

Learning how to kick kick kick on her own.

Cup conditioning!

And swimming through the hoop on her own.

Back at home, Arlo is psyched to be having his very favorite type of omelette for lunch.

It's a double-header! Now it's time for Arlo's swimming lesson!

Arlo's continuing to work on his helicopter arms and side breathing.

Resting while the other students have their turns.

Learning how to do a proper dive.

Friday night was the best time to go through Mum's shirt drawer, Lucy declared.

She discovered this stunning glittery dress - bonus!

Breakfast in his hut.

More swimming for Lucy!?

She's got her game face on.

Owning the locker room.

Meanwhile, while Mum and Lucy are at swimming, Dad and Arlo go check out the new house.

The workers were in the middle of taking out the concrete floor where the new bathroom will go.

It's slow and noisy work!

A few minutes at the playground (look at Arlo climb!)

And a few minutes in the sand.

Enjoying a Yakult while waiting for Lucy to finish her lesson.

We finally tended to Lucy's very long bangs.

Before and after. What do you think?

Oh my! As if that weren't enough swimming, now Arlo has his Saturday afternoon lesson!

Warm-up kicks.

Practicing his kick board form.

And more side breathing.

The brother-sister monkey duo go for a late afternoon walk around the moo baan.

Arlo is amused that Lucy is stopping to smell the flowers.

She spots the one little bud amidst all the green and branches.

Our little catalog models.

Checking out one of the vacant houses down the street.

My mini-me.

Someone hasn't had enough swimming for the weekend!

Wait, no, I take that back. Too much swimming; she's too fatigued now!

Reading her bedtime book to herself.

Trying on her Halloween costume: as a rapper.

That hat suits you, Lucy!

The next morning, the bright sunlight shining off some glittery gloves in Arlo's room generates quite the effect.

Starry night.

Cozying up in his little house.

Oh! Lucy's here to invite herself in too.

Sibling hugs.

Lucy is enjoying it.

Oh! Looks like we're back at Nong Bon park for another bike ride. Lucky kids!

It's just rained, so the ground is a bit wet... but the vegetation is also very green!

Let's go, let's go!

Lucy's enjoying the ride.

The boys take the lead.

And then Lucy and Mum overtake!

The view from the top, of the whole fam.

Dad and the kiddos.

Lucy is enjoying the view from the top.

Arlo and Dad carefully walk their bikes down the other side of the bridge. Good job controlling your bike down the hill, Arlo!

And the last leg of the cycle: up the shaded dead-end strip.

Stopping to stretch our legs and dig in the dirt.

Dad and his baby koalas, with a beautiful bamboo background.

Arlo posing with his freshly-picked "eucalyptus" leaf.

Posing nicely on his tree-top.

A natural laugh.

Mum's turn with the baby koalas.

And Lucy's turn for her portrait on a stump.

Nice smile, Lucy!

It was an exhausting morning for everyone concerned.

Sitting together at the nail clipping salon.

Smile, team!

Oh Lucy, you're so strong! Picking up a 19-liter jug of water!

Uh oh! Poor Lucy is starting to feel unwell.

And so first thing Monday morning, it's a trip to the doctor's office.

Waiting patiently to see the doctor...

... and for the tests to be performed.

And waiting patiently in the lounge, while Mum and Dad have their coffee.

It's been a long morning, and someone isn't feeling well at all.

Back at home, if anything is going to cheer up the little patient, it's koalas and her big brother!

Sympathy hugs from Chompy...

... and Chompy and Twinkle together.

Oh dear, Lucy. Back at the doctor's office first thing Tuesday morning with an array of symptoms that are not yet subsiding.

She's owning the playground, despite feeling under-the-weather.

Poor Lucy! Having an IV needle inserted (at the same time as having her blood drawn) in anticipation of a longer stay today.

A bit stunned while waiting for her fate: what will the blood tests reveal?

Sorry, Lucy! You can't go outside. It's raining *and* we forgot your shoes!

Feeling pleased with herself that she climbed on top of the picnic table.

High five!

Lucy's got this rocking horse figured out.

And the verdict is in: exceptionally elevated levels of CRP, and dehydration. It's a hospital stay for you, little miss, while they figure out what's really going on.

Tired, and feeling sorry for herself. And so are we.

Really can't complain about the room; if we're going to be stuck in a hospital, this is the one to be in!

Lucy can't believe it; but these hospital gowns are pretty comfy.

Inspecting her new hand.

And... asleep.

The view from Lucy's room (south toward Sukhumvit).

Lucy can't believe this hospital meal. French toast? Pish!

Still hasn't come to terms with this IV that's attached to her.

Finally! Lucy's friends arrive to keep her company!

Excited by the new toy that Dad bought her from the giftshop downstairs.

Entertained by this hospital pillow.

Hugs for koala. Thank you for keeping Lucy company, Koala!

Changing Lucy and giving her a wipe-down after a big vomiting episode. Someone's not thrilled.

Nap time number two (at 6pm, hmm!).

Realizing that the (Santa Claus) wall decorations behind Lucy's head are really quite fancy, with color-changing lights!

Getting ready for bed now; let's see how this goes.

One last play with the new blocks... and then bed.

Wednesday morning. All told, we slept quite well, although Lucy had a massive diaper leak thanks to all the IV fluids pumped into her throughout the night.

Checking out the sunny morning view. What's in store for today?

Huh, thinks Lucy. Maybe I could get used to this place!

If we're stuck with this IV tube, may as well make the most of it!

Somehow, Lucy manages to take up two whole hospital beds!

Dad's back! Big hugs.

Roll call for all her friends.

Lucy was itching to go for a walk in the hall. And what did we find parked right outside her door?

A big red car!

A few tours up and down the hallway helped to keep ourselves entertained for a few minutes.

Using this opportunity with a captive audience to train her up and do some productive work!

Kicking the side of the bed.

Scraping the bottom of the barrel here. Playing with the slippers in the room...

... and the table that goes up and down.

Very serious, this table.

And how, playing with the bed. Up down, up down!

Nibbling on this IV tube again.

Practicing our balancing.

Hey, we can both do it!

And playing with the bed remote control.

Feeding dad the leftover fruit from her lunch. (Generous? Or entertaining?)

Someone's tired, but fighting her nap.

Dad trying his hardest to get her to sleep. We don't need an over-tired, sick Lucy.

Falling asleep on Bluebeary.

Hooray! Lucy's been given the green light to go home!

Street clothes and a hand free of IV. Hooray!

Saying goodbye to Ward 6B!

Excited to be home! Arlo is excited to welcome Lucy home!

Bangkok Week 784

July 6, 2023

Arlo celebrates his last day of school, and then — uh oh! — the summer holidays begin. Bring on the activities! Swimming, biking, painting, skating… and this is only the first week!

Where is Lucy? Where is Lucy?

Here I am! Here I am!

Hooray! Oh no! It's the last day of school!

This koala is ready for the summer break.

But first, Lucy has a swimming lesson.

Psyching herself up for her lesson.

Practice those tummy kicks, Lucy...

... so that you can propel your motor boat!

Sizing up the boys... if I had to get stranded on a raft, which one would I pick?

And since Arlo's school is ending early today, it's straight to pick-up after swimming.

Lucy's sizing up the nursery: she thinks she's ready.

Waiting patiently for Arlo to come down.

And here he is! Excited that his sister is here to pick him up, too!

First day of school and last. No evolution in fashion sense over the year.

Enjoying his last time in this tree.

Someone's grown so much this year!

Including in climbing prowess.

Lucy doesn't want to leave, either.

What a productive year you've had, Arlo! With such a lovely memento to remember it.

Special afternoon outing with dad...

... to drive the cars at Donki!

It's Arlo's first time steering *and* controlling the gas by himself.

Uh oh! Rain on the way home!

Lucy, do you think you have enough friends to sleep with?

Lucy, I think this mask is a little big on you!

Lucy's humoring everyone by walking around with a cup on her face.

Arlo's starting a new level of swimming class today!

He's in the water all by himself (with his two classmates), and needs to wait his turn.

More practice with his helicopter arms.

Stopping at the new house afterward, and -- bonus! -- the garbage truck is here!

And stopping by Makro...

... for a bunch of groceries.

Back at home, Lucy tries her hands at painting again.

She just can't help but taste.

Sticky sticky, messy messy.

Woah!

Well that was a success: the paper is full of colors, as are Lucy's tummy and face!

Look at this climbing monkey! She knows she's not supposed to be up there!

Mmm. Daal for dinner is the best.

A Sunday morning inventory of all the stuffed animals that Lucy and Arlo have collected.

The climbing monkey at work again.

Sunday smiles.

Twins!

Looking at photos on Dad's watch.

Mum the horse! Neigh!

This is the much more sustainable way to have a baby koala on my back.

Mining for toys under the couch.

Sunday afternoon park visit: this time, to Benjakitti Forest Park, the new landscaped park on the old Tobacco Monopoly land.

This time, we've entered into the north-west corner of the park, directly in the sports complex.

Hey! We stumbled upon a bunch of pickleball courts!

There were a few slides and climbing ropes for kids.

Give it a go, Lucy!

Not so sure. This is a pretty big slide!

Oh my! That was pretty slow actually.

Arlo's enjoying biking along the narrow, zig-zaggy pathways.

Lucy doing a perfect farmer impression, without knowing it!

Arlo, can I please ding your bell?

She's found her feet, and is running around!

Great late-afternoon light.

Arlo's eager to bike amongst the marshes. Uh oh!

And Lucy's leading the way up to a view point.

But uh oh! What do we see from up here! A giant storm, incoming!

Quick selfie, before we pivot and dash home!

Get ready to go back, boys!

Yep, these clouds look pretty darn ominous.

Taking the express way back to the parking lot.

Hey, we parked next to our uncle!

Back at home safe and dry, just in time.

Two in a box!

Uh oh!

Monkey see, monkey do.

Bet you can't guess which monkey started this!?!

Monday morning: entertaining himself in a box in the office.

Diligently looking for caterpillars on our citrus crop.

A long-overdue playdate with Arlo's friend, Lamar.

She lives in a beautiful house...

... with its own pool!

Posing with the beautiful flower arrangement he made.

Working hard on an equally hard piece of Naan from the other night.

Who's this?

Lucy, do you think you have enough friends in your bed yet?

Another morning, another caterpillar check.

Why, it's matching Tuesday!

Two little monkeys, sitting on a bench.

If you're up to no good, look away!

Hiding in a corner, playing. Nothing suspicious about this!

Balloon entertainment.

And Lucy's learning to ride Arlo's bike already! Good balancing, Lucy!

Flying on Dad's legs.

Wheee!

Oh wow, look how strong Dad is!

The faces of anticipation.

A pile of children...

... and a wefie.

Spotted: a monkey in the wild, quietly trimming a plant with his scissors.

Quick visit to the house.

Arlo and Dad check out the progress.

The new steel reinforcements that will support the new bathroom are finished.

Up close. This must've been loud!

Another new beam, and the piping for the new wiring, above the living room.

The third floor is rather being used as storage right now.

Enjoying our own swimming pool, back at the Ekkamai house.

Lucy, it's bathtime!

Lucy likes these new PJs from Granny (with nice, sticky feet).

But Lucy, you've not quite made it to your bed yet!

And after 3 months away, Arlo's back at the rink to keep working on his skating.

And today, we're doing what we promised we'd do 3 months ago: renting a penguin!

Slow and steady at first...

And Arlo really took to his new buddy.

Wefie!

It was a nice, empty rink at 10am on a Thursday. Good time to go!

Arlo's newest buddy.

By the end of the hour, Arlo was really zipping along. Penguin gave him lots of confidence!

And because the Zamboni* driver wastes no time, we got an up-close view, having just stepped off the ice.

A fatigued Arlo is ready for bed. Night night, and see you next time!

Bangkok Week 783

June 29, 2023

It’s a double-header this Saturday, with a fun morning biking at Suan Rot Fai, and an afternoon of fun and games at the farm. And on Sunday, two swimming lessons! This is Arlo’s last week of school before the summer break begins… uh oh!

We start this week with two koalas in a tree...

... one of whom goes to school.

Munching his favorite leaf. Bliss.

Commuting home in style.

Lucy can eat a banana all by herself now. Yum!

We couldn't help but go back to Suan Rot Fai for another morning of cycling.

Arlo's really a pro!

Lucy is a good sport, hanging on dearly with Mum at the helm.

We've found our way to Cycle City. Green light, Lucy! Go go go!

Oh my! Look at all the traffic waiting for the light to turn green.

What do they see?!

Stopping at the treehouse, for a panoramic view of Cycle City.

Looking down on the busy streets below.

Hooray! Biking!

Everyone with Dad, getting ready to hit the road again.

Sipping Mum's ice cold water.

Our kool green wheelz.

A beautiful, shady ride.

And along the canal.

The face of a warrior, determined to finish the Tour de France.

Lucy thinks she's the Queen.

Back at home, helping Ba Wan with the cleaning.

Ooh! Pickled okra! Arlo goes for it.

Surprisingly, Lucy ate it, too!

This is a pretty accurate wefie.

Helping herself to a bowl of dragonfruit.

And doing a quick shop at MaxValu, on our way to...

... the farm! We haven't been here in many months.

Lucy, is that the face of excitement? Or terror?

The pond is full of (new) ducks. Many families!

Lucy was very interested in them.

Everyone wanted to walk!

Enjoying her stroll, independently.

Look! Ducks!

And confidently marching over to see the goats & sheep.

Arlo wastes no time making friends.

Unlike last time, Lucy wasn't afraid of the animals.

In fact, she was quite captivated by them.

Arlo enjoyed himself, too! (He's embarrassingly good at picking up dropped animal food that others have paid for.)

Look, they're here to say hi to us!

Farm shot!

Lucy's first time really registering the chickens, too.

Is this too much, Lucy?

And oh.my.goodness. Look at these bananas, stuck to a tree! This farm's got everything.

Someone insisted on getting an ice cream; thank you, Grandpa!

And so Lucy got her own cup, too.

Well, Arlo's happy, even though this was dinner.

Portrait of a Stones fan.

Storyteller.

The farm happened to be having a "family game day". So Arlo's trying his arm at the basketball toss.

No luck for either of our players.

But Lucy was a very good ball girl.

Perhaps, too good of a ball girl.

Arlo took to this beanbag.

I suppose we could sleep here tonight.

Next game: mini golf!

Mum stepped in to pinch hit, and miraculously got a hole-in-one.

Last stop: a rather impossible ring toss.

Happy Sunday morning!

Where did Lucy go? The boys have lost her...

Swimming time for Arlo!

Oh! It's Arlo's first lesson in the water all by himself!

He's getting very comfortable with the kickboard.

Practicing helicopter arms.

And later that afternoon, it was Lucy's turn to swim!

Got something on your nose, Lucy? That's right, lick it off!

Uncle Andrew and Uncle Ray came over for the afternoon.

They made themselves right at home, and Arlo didn't mind!

Then, all the boys went out to buy durian. So Lucy and Mum stayed home to practice piano.

Enjoying their durian altogether. Cheers!

Oh my! A very exciting bonus that came with this langsat fruit: a millipede!

But wait, there's more! A second millipede!

Arlo was fascinated, and really wanted to keep them for pets.

Monday morning, Lucy is wearing her Easter Best from Granny.

And taking stock of her eggs.

Chocolate-filled croissant for breakfast: what could be better?!

Looking sharp!

Hey koala! This isn't the shirt you went to school in!

Someone came into Mum's office, and found himself a Hawaiian getup.

There's the enthusiasm I like to see.

Fancy hands, too!

Then, a few hours later, someone else came passing through, and found the same gear.

Looking about as enthusiastic. Hey, you put it on yourself, Lucy! Don't look at me!

Helping to water the plants on the balcony.

Entertaining himself quietly while Mum was on an evening call.

Bed time stretches for Lucy.

Lucy, I'm glad to see you're so flexible. Despite your tummy!

The last time seeing this view from Mum's office.

We'll be moving soon. Hmm! Look at all the duck boats out on the water!

One Bangkok, the development where the old Suan Lum Night Bazaar used to be, is coming along nicely!

And there's the new office tower!

Good-bye, U Chu Liang 37th floor! You've been lovely!

Back at home, 13 years of trinkets and goodies are really quite fun to play with!

Like this stylish green sports jersey.

Taking on an entire apple.

Making the most of his last days of Nursery School.

At home in his kingdom.

We'll miss this school -- especially the convenience!

Oh my! Bonus! What kind of truck is this?

A water truck!

And some updates from the house: they've put tarps up over the big exposures to the outside.

And they're starting to install the steel reinforcements where the new bathroom will be built.

Well, I guess that' solid.

Oh my. This is the product of Arlo entertaining himself patiently while Mum was on another evening call.

Lucy, isn't that box a wee bit narrow?

Oh nope. Perfect fit.

Who has balls for eyes?

This boy! But Arlo, why are you still in your PJs?

Oh! Why it's Pajama Party day at school!

I bet no other koala has climbed this tree in his PJs before.

Enjoying the year-end festivities.

The PJ koala.

Back at home, Lucy is munching on a great lunch of blocks.

See you next week!

Bangkok Week 782

June 22, 2023

We enjoyed a fun Saturday morning at the park this week. Lucy turned 1 year and 3 months old. The renovation at the new house is well underway. And we celebrate Yaa’s birthday, Auntie Julia’s birthday, and Father’s Day for Grandpa!

Welcome to another week. Careful not to get run over, Lucy!

Arlo's teacher let him borrow this orange supercar for the weekend; he couldn't be more thrilled.

Afternoon entertainment: trip to Big C with Dad!

Lucy's learning how to walk the duck.

Enjoying her new favorite seat at the dining table!

Lucy brings all her best friends to bed at night; the bed is becoming increasingly crowded!

And Arlo is bringing his weekend guest -- the orange supercar -- to bed tonight, too.

Starting the weekend right: with the orange car.

Lucy says, me too! Bring on the weekend!

Sitting on her little ledge, commentating on what she sees.

Happy birthday, Yaa!

Arlo's all sunscreened up and ready to go to the park!

Stopping to smell the flowers has Lucy impatient.

The third "Em" building, on the west edge of the park, is coming along nicely.

Lucy, sizing up the playground.

She's figured out how to sway herself around on this swing thing.

Riding together on the jet ski. How amicable.

The big monkey is getting very proficient at climbing now.

Milk break! (She chugged the whole box!)

And it's time for bubbles in the park!

True joy for everyone!

Eye on the prize.

And he goes in for the kill.

Mid-pop!

Lucy's turn.

Chase that big bubble, Lucy. It's bigger than your head!

Ice cream break! Lucky Arlo!

Dad got an ice cream cup for Mum and Lucy to share, too.

Ready to hit the road again.

Happy birthday, Auntie Julia! See you soon!

Finally coloring in the "Arlo" shirt that he got for Christmas.

The finished product. Beautiful! And very unique.

Caught red-handed, sneaking sticky rice directly from the bag!

Someone is utterly pooped, and it's very fascinating!

Saturday evening entertainment: watching Ba Wan water the flowers.

No time to wait for milk in a bottle!

Sunday morning construction site!

That's better. Wear your safety equipment.

Helping Dad was the A/C in his bedroom.

And swimming time for Arlo.

Construction update: the piping for the new electric wiring has arrived.

They've removed the wooden floor where the new bathroom will go.

The master bathroom wall has been opened up, since the door will be moving.

And the signature round shower from Arlo's bathroom has been removed.

There's never a visit without a trip to the playground!

The view from the basketball court.

Sending the old toilets and ceiling fans off, to a new home.

Back at home, Lucy Is getting pretty proficient on her ladder. She was able to climb, and then turn herself around.

And climbing up the stairs on the outside.

Sipping her water in style.

What a fashionable turban.

Lucy is really enjoying the daal and palak paneer!

How did Lucy get wedged in here?

Arlo is allowed 2 Izzy episodes on each of Saturday and Sunday.

Wefie!

A final late-weekend cycle around the block.

Walking like a boss.

Bedtime. Uh oh, we'e lost Arlo!

Another special occasion -- happy Father's Day, Grandpa!

Lucy's been practicing her driving skillz. But always, safety first!

A tiny box arrived in the mail... and Lucy just had to sit in it.

Practicing her piano.

Arlo's new bedroom (and Dad's office space).

Uh oh! Someone couldn't stay awake this afternoon.

Another wefie!

Peeling himself a boiled quail egg. Delicate!

Lucy, this box is more size-appropriate!

In fact, it's good fun for everyone.

Birthday wefie with our big girl!

Morning climb.

Helping clean something off Lucy's face.

Going for the wind-swept look.

Happy 1 year and 3 months, Lucy!

Koala is getting better about sharing his tree with friends.

Playing with all the cars before Arlo gets home!

What's going on? We're supposed to be heading up to bed. Chop chop!

Lucy likes Arlo's new bed.

She also likes his old bed!

Another construction update: the new wiring is going in.

The yellow is the new wiring.

In the kitchen...

Very much work-in-progress.

The TV room...

... the 3rd floor looks quite spacious with all the walls removed!

This could make a nice office space!

The greeting crew is happy to see us back home.

Late afternoon walk around the block.

With the kiddos.

What's this!?

A brand new toy from the housekeeper at the Mini Cooper house.

This one is going to be sought after!

She also gave Arlo a classic flatbed with classic 1929 Ford Outlaw!

Lucy found this bottle of water, and won't let go!

Bedtime photo.

Hey Mum! Look at all your teeth!!

The new red Mini Cooper is coming to bed tonight!

Looking dapper in the new dress Mum just bought, and a well-executed combover.

Assessing his collection of Minis.

And ending this week with an adventure, all the way at Rajamankala National Stadium.

Mum hasn't been here since Lady Gaga in May 2012, so it's definitely Arlo's first time.

The bus of the team we're here to support. Almost at the entrance, Arlo! Good job walking!

And one of many ambulances on-site. They might have been one of the highlights for Arlo.

It's Australia (yellow) vs. Tajikistan, in the 2023 AFC U17 Asia Cup.

Arlo was a great sport the entire evening, and seemed to enjoy himself.

I'd hardly say the stadium was full, with a capacity of 65,000. We think we were 2 of 4 local spectators who showed up.

After a run-in with the folding chairs, Arlo decided to sit on the stairs instead. Why not!

Enthusiastically supporting the Aussies. "The yellow team."

Enjoy this, Arlo. It will never be this empty again.

The stadium shot!

Australia won, 2-0. Onto the quarterfinals against Japan!

Player Number 3 and his family.

Bangkok Week 781

June 15, 2023

A lovely morning with friends, biking at Suan Rot Fai; the renovation (demolition) progresses; Arlo is becoming a trickster speedster on his bike; and he turns 3 years and 9 months this week!

It's a full-on pile-on to start the week!

Mister Cheery, enjoying the last morning of his lush long hair.

House update: most of the downstairs has been opened up now (except that last wall enclosing the bathroom.

And the hallway wall on the 3rd floor has been taken down now, too.

Lucy can't believe it's already time again for another swimming class.

Practicing her tummy kicks...

... and kicks under the tunnel.

Uh oh! Where did Lucy go?! She can swim underwater for 5 counts now!

Getting ready to jump in with the big boys!

We won "Cloud" in the art auction! (Lucy is excited.)

Fourth time's a charm! Arlo finally got the trim he attempted 3 other days this week, at the barber shop in the train. Looking handsome, Arlo!

And enjoying the post-haircut tradition of a lolipop.

Hmm. There used to be a tent here. What happened?

Friday post-dinner walk around the Moo Baan, to kick off the weekend.

Arlo's learned a new "trick": one-handed cycling.

Arlo tries the great Indian dessert Gulab Jamun for the first time: a story in 3 parts.

Happy weekend! Let the fun begin!

(Here comes Arlo, never one to be left out of social events.)

We're at Rot Fai park, to do some cycling and meet P'Rohan and Quinn, whom we haven't seen since Arlo's birthday.

Since we were last here, they've added a nice dedicated dog area

A white knuckle ride for Lucy!

Arlo is enjoying himself on this neat path, but needs to learn to stay left!

Through the shade of many trees...

... and along a canal.

Hello back there!

And Lucy, too.

Stopping in Cycle City, where Arlo and Dad are patiently waiting for the light to turn green.

Riding around the Golden Mount...

... and Victory Monument.

Lucy's a little bit overwhelmed by it all.

But Arlo's enjoying himself!

Family shot!

Stopping to stretch out legs; photo op for Dad and Lucy.

Look, a tree to climb!

Quinn has the same idea.

Checking out a bustling ant nest together.

This koala was quite pleased to find a nice tree to hang out in.

Careful up there, Arlo! You're very high!

Koala in his element.

Ooh, look over there!

More climbing, with P'Rohan.

Biking around the entrance to Cycle City.

And riding around with Quinn.

Meanwhile, Lucy found some friends of her own.

How come this boy won't let you play with his basket ball, Lucy?

Two monkeys!

And heading home after a long morning. Big Boy Arlo cycled for over 6km! Who can make it back without falling asleep?

Back at home, we have a little school girl who can't wait to start her studies.

Which way to the classroom?

Hang on a sec, am I buckled down?

More house updates: the ceilings are removed over the "playroom" on the 2nd floor...

... and that wall with the large mirror has been completely removed from the 3rd floor bedroom.

All the bathroom fixtures have been removed, like the bathtub...

... and the sink.

No trip to the new house with Arlo is complete without a visit to the playground.

Arlo's confident enough, and coordinated enough, to climb the rope ladder now.

The older monkey.

And the younger monkey, enjoying the current house. No playground here, though!

Watching K. Wan water the flowers is more entertaining than Netflix!

Munching an entire egg for breakfast -- because why not?

Scaling the mountain all by herself.

Peek-a-boo!

The elusive Lucy in the wild: you never know where she'll pop up next.

In the tunnel!

Swimming time for our dolphin.

And a competitive bubble-popping session. Rackets only, no hands!

Arlo chases a big one. More points for size!

Lucy goes for an overhand shot.

Now Arlo's using the tongue technique.

Snap snap!

Playing trucks in the kitchen!? Who's idea was this?

And swimming time for Lucy. Seems we have a never-ending stream of make-up lessons.

Late afternoon walk around the block.

Strutting her stuff.

Two koalas perched on top of a tree.

Good job sharing the tree!

Koala kisses!

Here's a picture of two monkeys up to no good, if I've ever seen one!

Getting ready for bed.

I know that's a comfortable place to sleep, Lucy, which is why I can't let you sleep there!

Checking on his citrus plants. This pomelo is getting pretty tall!

Lucy is getting comfortable climbing the later, thanks to her great role model.

Hanging out in Arlo's bedroom; she's like a magnet, and zooms right onto his bed every time.

Nibbling on Arlo's racoon. Shh, don't tell him!

Lucy's learned to drink from Mum's water glass -- and there's no stopping her.

Playing with a self-selected toy from the kitchen.

Another construction update: all the ceilings have been removed, exposing the wiring, plumbing, and concrete slab floors.

No ceilings on the 2nd floor anymore.

Plumbing in the ceiling of the 3rd floor, from the bathrooms on the 4th floor.

3rd floor, taken from the back of the room.

The number of Koalas at school are multiplying!

Lucy's new favorite place to sit at the table.

Our big boy turns 3 years and 9 months old today!

Lucy feels on top of the world!

Finishing the last of her Egg Yolk Boros from Muji.

Where did they go!?

Does Arlo's nose make any sound, Lucy?

Her new favorite thing: Vics! It's a tossup which is better: the rub itself, or the container.

Big morning smiles!

Starting to learn how to ride the scooter.

You can never be too young!

Bedtime with friends.

Someone has moved into the big bed at night! (No place left for you to sleep now, Granny, but right next to him!)

Bangkok Week 780

June 8, 2023

It’s a long weekend here, so we take a trip back to Trat — the first in 3 months. And, at long last, it seems the house renovation is finally underway.

Here comes Lucy, zooming into another week!

Aaaand here she is, sound asleep, while she should be on her way to swimming right now!

After a rude awakening, here we are at swimming. Ready to jump, Lucy?

Maybe by the time the lesson is over, she'll be awake.

Starting to enjoy herself.

Cup conditioning, again!?

Enjoying diving for the rings, just like her brother did!

Speaking of her brother: he has another after school make-up lesson today.

And after that, he swung around to the new house with Dad, to check on the progress.

Most of the ground floor demolition is done.

Back at home, Lucy's caught red-handed trying to head upstairs... and she's got some work to do on her poker face.

She wastes no time climbing into her brother's bed, whenever she goes into his room.

Saturday morning brekkie, before hitting the road.

Delicious peanut butter, straight up! Yum!

They couldn't wait to get into the car: 2 kiddos, 2 koalas. That's everything we need!

Rest stop after entering Rayong.

Lucy's made a new friend, who doesn't mind being groped in the face.

And Arlo bears a striking resemblance to this boy.

Overflowing with enthusiasm.

Traffic was bad, so we diverted through much of Chantaburi. Here's the clock tower of Tha Mai district.

I am not sure that these narrow one-way sois through old wooden homes actually saved time. But they were cute.

And if nothing else, we ended up on Runway 35 of the Thai Mai Airport!

We finally made it to Trat! And kind Uncle Top had new toys waiting for both Lucy and Arlo.

Arlo's overjoyed with his new, remote-controlled digger!

And getting to ride the tricycle for the first time in some months.

Yaa got stacking rings for Lucy...

... which are also perfect for biting.

After observing her brother for a few minutes, Lucy is pretty sure she can ride this tricycle, too! Mirror check!

Enjoying fresh fruit...

... and hanging out on the couch with Puu.

Unfortunately, Lucy's koala (and car seat) had a bit of a rough trip. At least they're nice and clean now!

Spotted while washing the car seat: two snails hugging each other (says Arlo).

Yaa observes the subject in the wild, enjoying his afternoon milk.

Lucy spots something! A tail!

Why, it's Bella!

Arlo spotted a watering can... and knew exactly what to do with it (even if the plants didn't need any water!)

Lucy wanted to splash in the water. Even though we didn't bring the wading pool, there was a good backup on hand.

Fun with water! (Lucy can pour cups of water onto her own head now.)

And this is a first, thanks to Yaa: fresh corn in the bath!

Arlo brought his bike, which turned out to be a great idea.

And Lucy just followed poor Bella every which way.

Nice, nice dog.

Entertained by Bella's wagging tail.

Cycling around the property, with Bella trotting behind.

Oh! Looks like someone wants to go back to Bangkok!

Don't eat that flower, Lucy!

Getting a tour of Dad's childhood home.

Bella, are you still in the car?!

Everyone's tuckered out from a long, busy day. Bedtime soon!

Arlo's getting tucked into the big bed upstairs, which he'll share with Dad tonight.

A sunny Sunday morning!

Let's see what's going on outside.

Arlo's getting ready to resume his bike riding.

And Lucy is practicing on the tricycle.

Both Arlo and Lucy are excited to see the interior of one of the cars that Aa Top's working on. Wow!

Playing with all his special Trat diggers.

Meeting Aa Top's girlfriend over the phone.

And hanging around, patiently waiting for Bella to return.

There's Bella!

Checking out Bella's toes.

What's going on outside, Lucy wonders.

Let me get a better look!

She's enjoying all the new things to look at!

The Real Tough Biker Gang!

Showing this ice cream truck who's boss. (But how come it doesn't steer very well?)

Lucy, maybe Aa Top can help figure out why the steering isn't working.

Big, toothy grin!

Ice cream time!

A very low-energy state of play. Maybe it's rest time soon?

Everyone's here for a rest, but it doesn't look like much resting is going on!

Cutting our losses: let's keep this day going!

Admiring the cutie in the mirror.

Playing in the pick-up truck.

Wait!, says Bella. Don't leave without me!

Yaa's pomelo plant grew exactly one pomelo. And here it is!

Arlo's really taken this off-road biking to heart.

Here, biking through the fruit trees in the back (stopping to look at (what we think is) the pomelo tree).

And biking along the back of the house.

Bed time for clean Lucy!

Someone else was tired , too! (And I don't mean Koala.)

Happy Holiday Monday morning!

The sun is out, and Bella is up. Let's play!

Atempts to take photos of Arlo and Lucy together.

The top pick?

Check out the flip in Arlo's hair!

He's not playing with Tong... just playing *near* Tong!

Time to start the good-bye photos. First up, Arlo and Yaa.

And then Arlo and Puu.

And then, Arlo and Aa Top!

Next up: Lucy. Who's still learning how these photos work.

Loving Lucy and Puu.

Aa Top and Lucy. Starting to get the hang of it?

All together, now!

Bye bye, and see you again next month!

Arlo's signature car riding position.

Stopping at our new favorite rest stop on the way home.

It's Arlo's first time driving a giant "two row" commuter truck.

Look, Arlo's foot can even reach the pedals!

A new one for us this time: a Rover, with a NJ license plate!

Arlo remembered this one, and asked for it by name.

And Lucy's having a ride on this antique playground ride.

Riding the Japanese "golf cart fire engine," as Arlo calls it.

This stretch Vespa comfortably fits the whole family.

Spending a few minutes in the coin-operated monster truck...

... while Lucy sits in the coin-operated... eggplant?

Back at our parking spot, Arlo drives a classic tuk tuk, with one passenger who doesn't have any money to pay.

Enjoying a quick hippo ride before getting back in the car...

... and Arlo enjoys a few rounds on the slide.

We made it home! And poor Lucy needed a bath ASAP, thanks to her car sickness.

A little later, Dad's entertaining both Lucy...

... and Arlo, on a bicycle ride around the neighborhood.

Mum was inside, cooking up dinner.

Spaghetti bolognese (with Beyond meat, for a treat!)

Lucy liked the spaghetti, but didn't at all care for the sauce.

Someone's happy to be home, and have all her toys back.

Monday morning, Arlo's figuring out how to whistle!

Found some stylish specs at school.

If it's too dark to swim outside, bring the pool to you!

Lucy wonders why she can't just sleep on this bed at night?

These pillows are larger than life!

Always in a good mood before bed.

Big smiles!

Oh my! Mum is taking Arlo to school for a change...

... so that she can browse the art auction pieces.

This piece is larger than the space we have available.

There's no escaping drop-off without a few minutes in the sand.

Digging to China. That should keep him occupied for a while.

Lucy's learned about bubbles...

... and now she can't get enough of them!

Arlo had wanted to get a hair cut, but ended up watching the Zamboni instead, since the barber was closed.

Late afternoon tour around the neighborhood.

Helping give Lucy a bath. What a good big brother!

Another happy bedtime.

Arlo is trying to talk his way out of bed.

Lucy's interest in crayons lasted for about 1 minute, after which she started nibbling them.

Renovation update: the "demolition" is on in earnest.

The workers have erected this scaffolding...

... to remove the ceiling.

The musty old carpets are up in Arlo's room...

... and Lucy's.

Trying to get a photo of the matching hairdos, while they last...

... but Arlo was just not into it!

Well anyway... see you next week!

Bangkok Week 779

June 1, 2023

A fun, but busy, week — including a 6km + cycle at Nong Bon park, and two new Koala members of the family!

This Koala is enjoying his Friday afternoon tree.

And heads straight to a swimming make-up lesson after school.

Meanwhile, this mini-Koala has a new tree hangout of her own.

Sliiiide, little koala, slide!

A great place to rest as well.

Lucy is quickly getting comfortable with her climbing equipment.

And Chompy wastes no time on Saturday morning scampering to the top of his tree.

A little weekend self-portrait.

And then we're off, to Nong Bon park!

We've rented bikes, and will be cycling the 4km loop around the lake.

We've been here before, but it's Arlo's first time biking around the loop by himself...

... and Lucy's first time as a passenger!

Arlo did a great job cycling, but still gets easily distracted. Beware of sudden stopping!

Beautifully shaded, and overcast, make for a pleasant morning.

Heading up the steep, steep suspension bridge. Walk your bike carefully!

The view from the top.

Mum with the gang.

Crowd's all here!

Continuing along back on solid ground. The colorful trees add a nice accent.

Water break for everyone.

Dog!!

Lucy's very intrigued by Arlo's bike. I guess she'll be pedaling soon, too.

Ding ding. Good water break, but someone's keen to continue.

There go the boys, zooming off in the distance.

We've reached the end of the dead-end spit. Parking our bikes, to walk a little bit.

Lucy is quite happy to stretch her legs.

Interested in the leaves.

Resting on a bench, and eating raisins.

Here come Dad and Lucy!

With my biker babes.

And heading back to the shore.

Don't take a photo, Mum! Focus on biking please!

Back at home, a special treat: dry ice, that came with the ice cream Dad just ordered.

Experimenting with how the dry ice behaves.

Look at all the (cold, cold) smoke! The dry ice boils in room temperature water.

Getting more daring: pouring a bowl full of water onto the dry ice. What will happen now?

What can we play with for entertainment now? Poker chips!

Here, Arlo! A red one for you!

As if we hadn't done enough cycling yet today: more pedaling around the neighborhood in the late afternoon.

Someone's managed to climb the very steep slide that her brother set up.

Lucky Arlo and Lucy, getting a hand massage from k. Wan before she goes home. As if she hasn't worked hard enough today already!

Sunday morning: that can only mean one thing!

What's that one thing??

Playing with her brother's head.

And drinking from a novel new (old) water bottle.

This water is delicious!

Late afternoon walk time already?

Not only is it walk time, but it's time for Lucy to walk on her own!

And a picnic dinner this evening seems just the right speed.

Everyone ready to roll into Monday morning?

A quick good morning to Granny and Grandpa.

And it takes a team to fix Arlo's remote controlled race car.

Getting ready for the storms ahead at school.

Protecting herself from the sun, and representing the alma mater at the same time.

What's stuck on your hands, Lucy?

Kisses for Miffy!

Here's Koala, hanging out in his tree fork.

It's raining!!!

Dad entertaining the duo by watching the rain through the window.

The long-awaited prezzie has arrived!

Big brother - little sister koalas for Arlo and Lucy to care for.

They're the perfect size. Lucy's little Koala is hanging out in her hair, just like the babies do with Izzy.

Arlo's Koala is made to feel at home right away. Ride with me!

Big hug for Koala!

Getting ready for bed: tonight, we welcome yet another new friend into the bed!

Reading her bedtime story all by herself.

Have we mentioned the latest, someone anemic-looking cactus paddles?

With these, the cactus is practically too tall to see now!

Spotted in Muji: foot-shaped sandals! That's good, because I was worried they might be hand-shaped.

Wishing Dad a safe trip as he heads out to get Arlo.

Spotted with glee on the way home: a locked tire!

Driving his bus on the blocks...

And balancing Taipei 101 on his head, with the help of Koala.

Applauding himself after he finishes this jigsaw puzzle.

The team of helpers that Dad enlisted to take the side off of Arlo's bed.

This cutie sleeps only in (slightly thicker) footie PJs these days. No more sleeping bag. (She runs hot.)

And she would sleep in this bed, if allowed.

Great advertising for IKEA here. Look how comfortable!

Getting in on the action.

All smiles.

Showing her big (clean) teeth. Night night, Lucy!

More puzzles over breakfast.

Uh oh! Dad's being attacked by little blue monsters!

Big smiles from the lead attacker.

This attacker is quite a handsome little lad, actually.

It's May 31st: finally time to begin the construction! This is the center point of the property....

... and according to all the auspicious details...

... this point right here is where we need to begin!

We brought the tent home from the new house, to make room for the construction...

... and Lucy's really enjoying it!

Peek-a-boo!

Come join me, Arlo!

Checking on the citruses in the morning.

Arlo's discovered that the leaves smell nice and citrusy.

Poor Koala was left alone inside to watch.

Lucy's sitting at the table in a very big-girl way for breakfast today.

Take me seriously, guys!

Can you see, Lucy?

Deciding that she'd rather have breakfast in her tent.

Hanging out with her brother in the tent.

Can we use this as a photo opportunity?

Smile everyone!

What's this? A hair tie in my hair? Get it out!

Oh! A giant fruit delivery from Trat!

And a special Thursday afternoon adventure for Arlo and Dad.

Walking to Thonglor...

... with many stops along the way.

Including an ice cream break once they get there. To pick up photo prints!

Looking stylish in that Canada hat, Lucy!

Enjoying the sweet sticky rice from Trat. Serve it up!

Dressed like Waldo for bed.

Checking out her cute little footsies.

My favorite evening sandwich.

Night night, Lucy!

Sleep tight, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 778

May 25, 2023

This week, Lucy turns 1 year and 2 months old. We enjoy a morning at the park (after a long hiatus), and lots of late-afternoon biking throughout the week. It’s hot hot hot!

Welcome back! We begin this week with a self-portrait by Arlo, who's mastering the iPhone camera functionalities.

And here's Lucy, in another new outfit - both top and bottom courtesy of Sally!

Race car driver Arlo, warming up before school.

Lucy, you can't be tired already! It's swimming Friday!

Someone's happy to be here!

High-five for Teacher J.A.

Tummy kicks are a great chance to check out all the older boys in class.

Negotiating with teacher: do I really have to jump?

And here's Chompy, waiting to be picked up from school.

Lucy the Beauty is waiting patiently for her big brother's homecoming.

Dad brought a very bright box of cupcakes home from a work event.

No time to waste; everyone digs right in!

Of course, Lucy can't get enough of them!

Sugar coma??

Clifford! You're so big!

Yet another cupcake for dessert after dinner.

Uh oh! Late night A/C repair.

Saturday morning chat with Granny and Grandpa; here's a photo Arlo took. He brings out the smiles in everyone!

And Arlo turns 3 years 8 months -- oh wait, that was last week!

It's actually Lucy, who turns 1 year and 2 months old today!

Here's our little goofball, getting bigger and bigger everyday!

Then we're off to the park, where Lucy is wasting no time.

Off goes Arlo, leaving his sister in the dust.

Slowly, cautiously making her way through the tunnel.

The playground is fun!

Sliding down the slide by herself...

Marching around with intention.

She enjoys strolling the paths on her own, too. So many plants to touch!

Meanwhile, our construction worker is busy renovating the park.

Milk break for Lucy!

Lucy wonders why her hat feels so loose.

Last stop: skate park, which Arlo has almost entirely to himself, thanks to the hot sun.

Wipeout! Try not to be like those skater boys, Arlo!

The sun was a bit much for everyone; time to rest and recover now!

The invitation for Auntie Jasmine & Uncle Josh's wedding has just reached us. Arlo's happy to RSVP on our behalf.

And Lucy now reads bedtime stories to herself. Mum no longer needed!

Look at these two monkeys, partners-in-crime at such a tender age.

Lucy really loves her stuffed animals.

And Arlo's trying warm soy milk for the first time. Mixed reviews.

Arlo gets more laughs (and another 45-or-so photos) from Granny and Grandpa.

Some good smiles as they ride the horse together -- giddy-up!

Everyone seems a little bit impatient this morning, so let's do an early walk!

A nice portrait outside our favorite donut shop.

The ladies at home, while the boys swim.

Here's Arlo, ready for his lesson.

And a few hours later: here's Lucy, ready for her makeup lesson!

Uh oh, monkey Lucy! Be careful up there!

Time for Arlo's 4:00 bike ride.

This time, Lucy's out and about too. Show me how to ding the bell again please, Arlo?

Our little model.

Hey! This cone is pretty interesting!

Arlo's friends Sally and Douglass came over for dinner.

Doug brought his keyboard...

... which Lucy figured out right away.

All the monkeys, lined up at the zoo!

Hey, no blurry faces; and all faces generally looking forward. I call that a win!

Arlo was very, very interested in watching them all get onto the motorbike to head home. Bye!

Sally and Doug also brought a bag full of clothes and footwear for Lucy and Arlo. Wasting no time trying them on.

Arlo really loves these pink sandals! Arlo, I'm not sure they were meant for you...

Are we driving a boat, or are we helping tidy up?

Playing with the fort the next morning as well.

Is it big enough for two?

Why yes! And there's even room to stand!

Um, Lucy! You have an egg carton stuck to your shirt!

I do? Oh, I do.

Trying to get some nice photos of the duo.

The subtle smiles.

Getting some miles under her belt.

And here's chompy in his tree again.

4pm bike ride and walk!

And here are those pink sandals again!

Hey, this chair is pretty comfy! No wonder Mum can sit here for hours on end.

Nose kisses for Clifford!

How gentle.

Hmm. I wonder why they designed this car without a steering wheel?!

Learning to ride the scooter.

Enjoying dinner time.

Playing with the wooden blocks: a very hazardous activity.

Arlo seems to have found a solution.

Bingo! Okay, let the head-bashing commence!

Here's Chompy, hanging out after the end of the school day... again.

Lucy can take herself for a walk now.

Two hungry koalas can't wait for dinner time!

Rolling around on the floor.

Just stay on the pillows, please!

Arlo helpfully trying to undo the Tightest Button Hole Ever (TM) on the back of Lucy's shirt. No luck!

The boss of the bath.

Picnic breakfast this morning.

Arlo's concentrating hard on his construction site magnets.

Modeling a new outfit, courtesy of Sally.

Same exercise: can we get these two standing next to each other?

They're both perfecting their 'subtly uninterested' modeling poses.

"Strike a pose!"

And a hug.

In his happy place at school.

Ready for her meal.

Cooling off late afternoon.

Ever get the feeling someone is up to no good?

See you next week!

Bangkok Week 777

May 18, 2023

Another hot, busy week. We return to Lumpini Park for the first time since … September 2021, when we went with Granny? We collectively enjoy 4 swimming lessons. Arlo turns 3 years and 8 months old this week. And he enjoys a great adventure with Dad, to the book store and back.

Boo! We're back! And Lucy is really into pop-up books these days!

It's a meeting of the bikes outside school this morning.

Arlo's doing his part to contribute to the class artwork.

Helping tend to the beanstalks of one of his classmates, who was out today.

Meanwhile, Lucy's happy to be at swimming.

She can kick on her own when she wants to.

Lucy also enjoys using the noodle -- it provides such a bouncy buoyancy.

And cup conditioning. Everyone's favorite.

Back again? This afternoon, Arlo has the first of many make-up lessons.

Entertaining herself at dinner with Hippoposites.

Going straight for the abstract opposites. Forget big and small!

Celebrating the weekend with an outing to everyone's favorite park: Lumpini.

It's not quite 10:00 yet, so we have to walk the bike for a few more minutes.

And now: go!

The island in the middle of the pond is a nice, shaded spot to cycle.

Stopping to get a good look at the giant fountain. A natural geiser, right?

Smile everyone.

And this photo is for Granny. In fact, we're pretty sure we heard him say, "Where's Naomi?"

Continuing along, in the hot shade.

Zoom! Arlo comes speeding down the bridge.

Quick stop at the playground.

It's really not a good time of day to be at the playground; this is the only little patch of shade there was.

Arlo found a great bunch of eucalyptus leaf.

Getting ready to head back.

Lucy doesn't get the appeal of this park. Too hot, to sunny, too many larger-than-life lizards.

Back at the car with cold drinks for everyone. Good job, team!

And back home: it's time to change into dry clothes, but Lucy would much rather hang out like this.

Good. Belly button's still there. Just checking.

Passed out from the heat.

Aww. Why he looks so peaceful when he sleeps.

Quick afternoon trip to the veggie store across the street. Lucy is quite pleased that she's able to walk around there on her own.

Trying to get a side-by-side standing photo. This is pretty much as good as it gets.

Walking back with Dad. So cute!

Lounging around on Sunday morning. Who needs to get dressed?

Showing off his head of nice, fluffy hair.

Enjoying a peanut butter breakfast.

Oh my! Our not-so-small boy turns 3 years and 8 months old today!

Meanwhile, this goofus is enjoying herself at the window.

This is the textbook illustration of "big, toothy grin."

Who, me???

Someone's getting a little big to use the changing tables at swimming!

Spotted on the balcony: a "new" old Big Bobby Car.

It's for both Lucy and Arlo to share. Let's see how that goes!

A Sunday afternoon special: a make-up lesson for Lucy.

She's not complaining.

Meanwhile, Dad and Arlo pop over to the new house to check in and drop off some things.

The make-up class was with kids 1-2 years older than Lucy...

... but they were great role models for her. Kick kick kick, Lucy!

Bye bye, teacher Big. See you next make-up!

It's North American Mother's Day, and Arlo and Lucy have a message for Granny.

But I hate to say, the iPad is more interesting than the message itself.

Happy Mother's Day, Granny!

Group shot!

Oh?

On Monday morning, after much careful observation, Lucy got ready for school too!

Wait, p'Arlo, you're forgetting me!

And here's the Koala, back in his element after a weekend away.

Dinner tonight is served inside the garage.

Lucy's enjoying herself on the mat.

What a clown!

Someone will be a climber! Up she goes, using nothing but strength and friction.

After 3 years and 8 months, finally figuring out where the diaper is supposed to go!

Enjoying the morning view, and checking in on the grannies across the street.

The mechanic is fixing up his car before heading out for the day.

A fun new game at school using -- what are these? CDs?

The koala in his tree, munching on some fresh green leaf.

Playing with the magnetiles from Granny.

And Lucy's figured out how to roll cars around.

Getting a good cleaning from her brother... and a nip slip.

Arlo's ready to drive away! Finally!

Wishfully watching P'Noi head home for the night.

Oh, and a big hug for his sister.

Early morning playing together... when the stars align.

Lucy is really into hanging out with the cute girl in the mirror.

The girl makes her crack up!

Comparing tummies...

... and doing High 10 together.

The girl can even scream at the same time as Lucy!

Ready to head to school again the next morning.

Lucky Arlo: he's headed off on an adventure with Dad.

First up: an electric tuk tuk ride all the way down and over to Sukhumvit at Phrom Phong.

And then a fresh ice cream scoop.

Yum!

Then browsing the book store...

... and learning that he can just sit and read the books right there!

And capping it off with a taxi ride home. What a fun outing!

Lucy's new look: exercise headband!

Well, she tolerates it for longer than a hair tie!

That ball looks an awful lot like Lucy!

Of course, Arlo wants to get in, too!

Whoops, that was bound to happen.

Arlo's new favorite routine: a 4 o'clock bike ride back-and-forth at the corner.

Arlo brought his beanstalks home today...

... and it's time to give them a munch!

Mixed reviews, from the leaf expert.

Lucy's all ready for bed, so we'll say good night and good bye!

Bangkok Week 776

May 11, 2023

An ambitiously busy week, including a long-weekend. Arlo trials a Friday afternoon soccer class; we visit a very large, very hot zoo in Chonburi; and Arlo and his class host us for Stay and Play on Monday morning. Time for some rest!

Look out, world! This is Lucy's new favorite standing spot!

And modeling the hand-knit dress from Bronwyn in Toronto.

Enjoying all these wardrobe changes...

... while making sure her belly button is still there.

Learning how to drink from a big girl cup.

Special Friday afternoon activity today: football class!

It's the same organization with whom Arlo trialed a lesson in December.

It's as much about coordination and general physical development as it is football skills.

Practicing his jumps. (Practicing knocking over the hurdles.)

Learning to dribble the ball...

And practicing "airplane".

Oh! Lucy and Mum are matching now, thanks to wardrobe changes.

Something special is brewing this Saturday morning!

We're at the zoo!

Hopping onto the tram -- our ride for the day.

Lucy was quick to find a giant, coconut-like thing on the ground. But many time heavier!

Our first encounter: the deer.

Arlo was very keen to feed them.

He's used the skills honed at the farm, and knows exactly how to find food to feed them that's been dropped on the ground, so that we don't have to buy more food.

Lucy was also very interested in these giant dogs.

These deer are serious business.

Entertaining enough!

The boys are craning their necks to see...

... the big, hairy capybara family.

And continuing on to the hippos...

... who were as happy to see us, as we were to see them.

And on to Africa...

... I imagine all these African animals feel quite at home in this climate.

The clever giraffes and ostriches are clever, hanging out in the tiny circle of shade.

Arlo got to see Zebras for the first time, too.

Yes, those are Zebras.

And some larger-than-life rhinos.

The flamingoes have lost some of their pink hues.

An inquisitive giraffe, wondering what we're up to up here.

What tall, graceful animals!

Ostriches are ~2.5m tall, 100+ kg birds. And here, they look like chickens!

Why hello Arlo, won't you feed me?

Here's Arlo, with his found animal food again, stepping up to the task.

And now, another tram ride.

The highlight of the zoo, I should think.

We met a few elephants, but Arlo and Lucy were even less happy to see them than they were to see us.

Stopping for an ice cream while waiting for the bus.

The bucket hat ladies.

The moment we've all been waiting for!

It's Arlo's extended family: the Koalas of Chonburi.

These 3 are lucky, they get to stay in the A/C year round.

Koalas sleep over 18 hours/day... and we were definitely there for part of those 18!

Well, mission accomplished for Arlo!

And then there's Lucy: boldly going where no visitor is meant to go.

A quick stop to see some of the giant cats, before heading home.

Two sticky kiddos, drenched in sweat (and maybe with an extra layer of ice cream, or something.)

Lucy's still got enough energy and humor to make faces for the camera.

On that smiley note, let's head back to Bangkok!

Back at home, it's as if they've been away for half a lifetime and haven't seen their toys in as long.

And if the day wasn't hot and sticky enough, Arlo would still like to bike around the block, please and thank you.

Lucy was still a bit tired and stunned.

The next morning, it's Swimming Sunday again for Arlo!

Meanwhile, the yoghurt cups are patiently awaiting either Arlo's return, or Lucy's waking up -- whichever comes first.

Lunch on the go again: in a house, while reading picturepedia.

And then we wonder why Lucy prefers to dine on the go, too?

Dad's gone to work for the afternoon... so it's only Mum and the Monkeys. Uh oh!

Attempting a novel diversion: fort!

Lucy is really into it, and happy to hang out in there all afternoon.

Looks like our swimmer is getting tired, though.

Arlo's unsure if he'll nap inside the fort or outside.

Testing the outdoor dining area of the fort for comfort...

... but finally ending up here, in the classic nap spot.

Meanwhile, Lucy monkey is quite happy to keep playing...

... and so play she will! Rawr!

Trying on this box for size.

And checking out the beautiful quit that Great-Granny made for Mum all those years ago. (26 years ago?)

Taking our exploration upstairs to the bedroom, so we don't wake up Big Brother.

Now playing in Arlo's shower.

And finally, a trip to Donki once everyone is awake and alert.

Hey, look who's back and here to show off his professional driving skills!?

Driving these cars is not to be taken lightly; especially when driving a police vehicle.

Lucy figures she'll work out what the allure is someday!

Back at home, the fort has been tidied up and fortified.

Helping Mum prep the burgers and carrot sticks.

Look at that baby koala, hanging onto his Dad's back.

Lucy's practicing on her bicycle -- inspired by the cyclemaster himself.

She's got the forward motion now, but hasn't quite figured out steering.

Today is "Stay and Play" at school for Arlo's class.

Arlo gets to show us what things are like inside his classroom. Here are the beansprouts (bean stalks!) that Arlo's been caring for.

And Arlo's earth.

The class had set up a cafe for the Mums and Dads to get a coffee.

And preparing a coffee...

... all by himself! They had been practicing all last week!

Coffee's served, sir!

Time for coffee #2, now that Mum's arrived.

Back inside the classroom, showing Mum his beanstalks.

It'll soon be time to harvest them.

Looking through Arlo's really big, really heavy Learning Journey.

A beautiful self-portrait inside.

Multi-tasking: playing with blocks while Mum looks through kilograms of Learning Journey.

And playing with giant ants.

Family snack time back at the cafe, before it's time to go our separate ways.

Everyone's still happy, even after the parents have gone home!

And at the end of the day, our very own koala, Chompy, was waiting for us.

Meanwhile at home, Lucy is entertaining herself with the bear blanket...

... and getting very adept at picking things up directly with her mouth.

Sporting a pony tail is becoming increasingly important, since her hair otherwise is down into her eyes now.

Uh oh! Helpful big brother Arlo spots a clump of food stuck in Lucy's hair nest.

Helpfully trying to remove it.

Another morning, and Dad's already exhausted with his fair share of children for the day.

Practicing driving on the line.

Oh my! Out of nowhere, the cactus on the balcony has yet another two paddles growing.

The younger monkey no longer needs to sit on her bottle chair.

But she sure does love a good box.

Whee!

Pointing with conviction.

Enjoying a nice cold bowl of ice cream while sitting on the bus.

Lucy is happy to have ice cream anywhere, any time.

Arlo's finishing off an ice cream cone that was in the freezer, too. What an ice cream potpurri!

Oh my! A heavy fruit delivery from Trat - lucky us!

And taking the last photo with Marlies and Botho for a while (perfectly capturing the mood of the afternoon, I should add.)

See you in Korea!

Another day in the books, and we're pooped!

Playing together with the eggs -- a current favorite!

Woah! Who's that cute girl in the phone?

This pretty much sums things up!

His hair is long enough to tie up now!

Lucy is starting to appreciate books for their pictures and stories now (not just the page-flipping factor).

Here's Chompy the Koala, resting on his favorite tree fork again.

Lucy is always *so* excited when Arlo returns home from school! 😍

Marlies passed on this beautiful sequined skirt to Lucy...

Arlo's a very serious cyclist now.

A coordinated attack on Dad! The feet were especially unexpected!

Sorry to say, Dad, there's no escape now.

Innocently hanging out on her favorite chair.

Lining up all the zoo animals in obedient formation.

That's right, Lucy! That's how the skirt is meant to be worn!

Time for another COVID shot -- this time the bivalent! (It's finally come to Thailand, just as world health authorities are advising that it's no longer effective!)

Little Miss Curious...

... making herself comfortable on the shell chair. Sabai sabai!

And giving a big, sweet goodnight kiss to the cute girl in the mirror.

Bangkok Week 775

May 4, 2023

We battled several fevers and other illnesses this week. And we also said farewell to Yaa. But despite that, Lucy had a great swimming lesson, and our Koala greatly improved his tree-climbing skills.

It's Friday! And Lucy's back at swimming for the first time in over 2 weeks!

She's excited to be back.

Oh swimming pool, how I've missed you!

Whee!

She also had no interest in using the kick board anymore!

Putting stickers back in the bucket.

Very happy throughout the whole lesson. Good to be back, eh Lucy?

Meanwhile, this Koala is getting very adept at climbing his tree.

Nature photography: spotted in the quiets of Ekkamai, a tired Koala catches some Zzzs after a long week.

Saturday morning activity: drawing! Arlo can draw faces well now.

Helping to finish Mum's rainbow.

Ooooh, says Lucy!

A story in two parts...

... and there's the ending. Surprising, I know.

Another tiring day!

Nap over, getting out of the house for a short while.

We're both on wheels today.

There he goes, our cycling pro. (We probably need to raise the seat a bit.)

These two monkeys have found a good hiding spot in Mum & Dad's room.

No one will find them under hiding at the very back of the clear glass table.

Hugs for baby Koala!

Working on his activity book -- practicing pen(cil) control.

Oh no -- it's raining! Has the rainy season begun already?

Reading a very advanced book this morning.

Sadly, it's time for Yaa to head back home now too.

Sending her off at the (rainy) bus terminal.

Mimicking the koala cookies that Arlo got at the bus terminal, too.

What a comfy pillow, eh Lucy? It's got just the right spring to it.

Despite feeling under-the-weather, a short trip over to Big C to break up the afternoon.

The full caravan.

It was Lucy's first time wearing a mask for any length of time. She did well, although it seemed to make her drool quite a bit.

Trying to relax back at home, but for this heap of children!

Cute Lucy!

Someone is figuring out how to push herself along on this bike.

Look at the maniac hair on this big-eyed, big-tummied creature.

Good night, Lucy!

Helping Dad with the vacuuming. It's a very serious activity, you know.

Arlo is very creative with the yoghurt cups.

Hello, Lucy! Did you have a good nap? Ready to get up?

The Koala (this is the trademark Koala face) is cooling off in the pool, and helping his fever to stay away.

Thankfully, this Koala is starting to feel better already.

While Koala splashes, this girl gets some peaceful time touring the neighborhood.

With some corn on the cob. That's the best way to cruise.

It's almost bedtime: hurry up and read all the books!

Tuesday morning: Lucy's in for a treat. Her second flu vaccine of the year, plus Japanese Encephalitis.

But first: let's play on the equipment they finally brought back after how many years in storage?

Just hanging out in the kitchen.

Oh my. Koala is learning to climb higher and higher.

Up he goes!

Watching Izzy's Koala World patiently while Mum takes a call over dinner.

Koala is dressed in his Wednesday best this morning.

But this won't last long...

... by pick-up, Koala is in his back-up shirt.

But the Koala face is still there, so we know it's the right creature.

Look, Koala does know how to open his eyes!

A happy Koala, just hanging out in his favorite tree.

And sleeping in his tree fork, just like any Koala would do.

Oh! Koala's friends are here to join him!

It's holiday Thursday, so we're entertaining ourselves at home today.

We managed to get through one play of the Chicken Board Game, with only a loose bending of the rules this time.

Very intent on having girl drive the Mini Cooper.

Someone's teeth are really bothering her these days. So ice is the way to go!

Zoom zoom! The expert cyclist leans into the turn as he completes his first lap.

Tending to the citrus plants on the balcony.

Lucy's enjoying the balcony time, and especially the clothes pins.

The neighborhood watch.

Oh my! Who invited the koala onto the balcony?

Getting the picnic ready.

Caught red-handed, Lucy!

Yoga pose!

Enjoying al fresco dining this evening.

Hello up there, boys!

Hey! Lucy's tall enough now to stand and wash her hands.

Jamming away at the piano.

Can we keep him like this?

Darn!

Two little monkeys, jumping and rolling around on the bed.

Looks like no one quite wants to head to bed yet.

Good night, my monkeys! And see you next week!

Bangkok Week 774

April 27, 2023

Mum is headed to India this week, so Yaa has come up to help - and Puu has come to accompany her. What fun it is to have more grandparents visiting! And at long last, Arlo’s spring break is over and he’s headed back to school.

Welcome back!

Dad is throwing Lucy around this morning...

... and so Arlo wants in on the action, too.

Simple happiness: no sass, no tantrums.

Someone just had his toe nails painted, and is patiently waiting for the paint to dry.

Lucy's turn! (Just pretending.)

Oh my. Has someone decided to check out all the clothespins?

Not only that, she's tasting all of them too!

Waiting for the bus... or something like that.

What a natural modeling pose, Lucy.

Not quite time for another measure-in, Lucy, but you're welcome to practice!

Taking this selfie business very seriously.

Meanwhile, down at the bus station, Arlo and Dad wait patiently...

... for Puu and Yaa to arrive!

Excited for his visitors!

Hugs all around.

Lucy got a cute new sun hat, and she loves it!

May simple things always bring you this much joy, Lucy!

What a beauty.

Evening special: Tibet food for everyone!

The next morning, Lucy tries on one of the new dresses from Yaa. What's this?

Rice congee for breakfast! Learning how to eat from Puu and Yaa.

Resting together after a game of chase.

Arlo popped up to the office with me to help me check in for my flight.

Reading a book with Puu before he heads home.

Smile, Lucy!

Lucy doesn't want Puu to go home, either.

The farewell party.

All 3 generations.

Bye bye, Puu! Safe ride!

And one final farewell hug from Arlo at the bus terminal.

Meanwhile at home, Lucy is still loving her hat!

A smiling selfie for once.

Lucy, you look huge when Yaa holds you like that!

Arlo is really into Izzy's Koala World on Netflix now.

A mid-afternoon visit to the farm was hot -- and what's this!? A giant crane?

It didn't look this sunny from the living room at home!

Oh! Who's this? An escaped goat enjoying a lunch of banana flower and banana leaf.

Getting a really good view of this mischief-maker.

Lean on me!

Checking out the bike breaks together.

Really, really focused on Arlo's helmet.

Even the picnic in the shade was hot!

Sharing Yaa's water.

Walking around like she owns this farm!

Fly, Lucy! Fly!

Heading home, and ducking under the very long arm crane!

Back at home, Lucy speed-reads Brown Bear over dinner.

Monday morning, Mum is off to Delhi! But first: this delicious breakfast in the lounge.

The new connection (I think it's an underground walkway with moving sidewalk) to the new satellite terminal at Suvarhabhumi.

Back at home, Yaa is helping to hold down the fort.

And finally, thinks Lucy -- Arlo is back to school!

Very interested in the globe at school.

And he's climbing higher in the trees than he did before the break.

Welcome home, Arlo!

Taking the shower really seriously!

Morning milk with Yaa!

And another afternoon snooze. School is tiring!

What a grin, Lucy! I can only assume you're up to no good!

Enjoying the dates from the UAE that Baa Rat brought for Arlo on her way back from Boston.

Miss Destructo and her pop-up books.

Someone has missed his sand.

Lunch time with Yaa! Yay!

Driving the bathtub and pulling a trailer full of baby.

Late afternoon walk with Yaa.

And here comes our master cyclist, zooming around the corner. Go, Arlo, go!

Bangkok Week 773

April 20, 2023

We continue our Songkran celebrations this week. We also celebrate month birthdays for both Arlo and Lucy; bid farewell to Granny; and wonder how two weeks of school holiday can possibly feel so long!?!

Welcome back to Songkran! Arlo also turns 3 years and 7 months old today!

Songkran shirts - also one of the better sibling photos I've managed in a while.

The taxi driver is back.

Despite being a very serious taxi driver, Lucy is still fascinated.

This afternoon's Songkran entertainment is at Donki Mall.

A big inflatable water slide and pool.

Arlo's excitement far exceeded my expectations.

Enjoying himself!

Riding a flamingo in the pool.

Unphased by all the older kids playing around him.

Taking a breather.

Enjoying the spray.

This is joy.

Next time, we'll bring goggles.

This is the fly, flying around the pool.

Hard to take a selfie around here!

A few final minutes of swimming.

Just a little bit wet! But I'd call this outing a success.

Today's other success story: we finally got a new vacuum cleaner!

Arlo approves!

It's the last day of Songkran, and we've come to Mega Bangna to celebrate.

Helpful big brother is doing Lucy's hair.

Granny treated everyone to ice cream while we waited for the water play to start.

Cheers!

Lucy's first ice cream cone.

I'd call that a success!

It's almost splash time!

There was the slide zone...

... and the float zone.

Poor Lucy didn't pack swimming clothes -- so in she went in her street clothes.

Riding the banana boat together.

Taking the banana boat very seriously.

Enjoying the big covered boat.

Trying the hamster wheel -- with little success.

And over to the slide side for the big boy. (Shh, you're supposed to be 5 years old to play on this side.)

Warming up with a short slide. Splash!

This is fun!

On the other side, Lucy is having lots of fun too.

Upgrading to a bigger slide.

Splash! Arlo must have gone down this slide at least a dozen times.

Practicing his crocodile crawls.

Branching out on her own.

And bouncing with Dad.

This is fun!

And the biggest of the slides Arlo tried.

Saving the best for last.

An hour queueing well spent! But is this hour of play over already?

Lucy didn't want to get out of the water, either.

This is not the face of disappointment or grump; he's just experimenting with the camera.

Speaking of, our budding photographer has a knack for getting great smiles out of people.

Someone's realized that tomorrow is Granny's last day. Boo hoo!

Special farewell dinner, thanks to Granny...

... delicious veg sushi!

Some farewell photos while the lighting is good.

Yeah, who am I kidding. It's impossible to get this lot of 3 to all smile in the same photo.

Lucy-in-a-box: the less-startling version of her cousin, Jack.

She seems to be wondering what she's doing in this box.

A quick trip to check out a new Tops in Thonglor.

It's Lucy's first time riding in a shopping cart. She seems to like it.

Spotted: a robot all dressed up for Songkran.

The Tops is in a brand new mall right on Thonglor.

Lots to see -- it's a funky little building. With indoor garden.

Checking out this mini-theater seating before heading back.

Arlo's enjoying the exploration.

Come on, Granny! You can only read one book at a time?

Last hurrah: a trip to the ice rink.

Should've taken this as a sign: someone wasn't really in the mood to skate today.

Even one-handed skating was a chore.

He spots the photographer.

Let's go, Arlo, you can do it.

Negotiating getting off the ice early.

Help, Granny. Get me off this ice!

Arlo's favorite part: snacks and Zamboni.

Hmm, I guess he really was tired.

Actually, he fell asleep on the car ride home! Poor guy.

Let's see if Lucy can finger paint without eating it: Episode 2.

Verdict: no, and no.

Well, she looks sated.

One last trip around the neighborhood for Granny.

Quick-and-easy dinner: Beyond Burgers (a bargoon from Tops that morning). Look how realistically they cook!

Writing in his passport while others enjoy dinner.

Lucy has her first taste of dijon mustard -- and she loves it!

Final hugs for Granny.

Everyone's in their PJs now: dragging this on!

Bye for now, Granny!

Oh wait, one last *CHOMP* from Lucy.

And she's off!

Look who got dressed in matching outfits -- completely independently.

Two very serious faces wondering: where did Granny go?

Well, thanks to Granny, we have this wonderful new drum!

Tap tap!

The dreaded passport photo process for the pickiest country in town: Canada.

We went with two different photos: let's hope one of them meets the standards.

The funny flowers are in bloom again!

Team bedtime.

Face plant.

Where. Is. P'Noi?!

What!? On our own today?

Arlo wanted to see his latest passport photos, after seeing Lucy's.

Entertaining himself -- and his sister -- from outside.

Sore throats abound.

Practicing his penmanship.

Hanging out with Dad, the speed reader.

When you don't have enough hands, Lucy has a solution.

Working on his boat.

Dinner with a view.

Also known as a balcony picnic.

It suits Lucy just fine.

Entranced by the neighborhood kids playing badminton.

Caught red-handed, Lucy! Now I see why you like this seat so much! Poor plant.

Thursday morning: helping herself to breakfast.

It's a good day, P'Noi is back.

It's also Lucy's 1 year + 1 month birthday. Measure up!

A local butterfly was really into the citruses this morning.

And our pin cushion cactus is right on schedule with its monthly bloom!

Enjoying a delicious cream bun from the Canadian embassy.

Lucy too, but she ended up wearing much of the cream.

Soon time to learn how to scoot!

And we end this long week with a spelling lesson with the master.

Bangkok Week 772

April 13, 2023

Wow! What a busy week! It’s the first of Arlo’s two weeks of school break (only!?) and it was chock-full of activities. We celebrated Easter; visited Harborland; visited Nong Bon park, where Arlo finally mastered biking; and celebrated the first of 3 days of Songkran. To be continued next week, if we’re still awake!

The first of many festivities this week is Easter, which Arlo is celebrating at school today.

Lucy has her last swimming lesson for a few weeks, given the upcoming long Songkran holiday.

Practicing her wall kicks, looking thrilled.

Cup conditioning...

... and getting better at jumping into the water.

Modeling her spiffy "new" bathing suit, another one courtesy of P'Sally.

At pick-up time, Arlo is excited by the very fancy egg he decorated at school today.

The egg festivities continue at home.

Trying the minimal-mess egg dying kit that Grandpa bought for Arlo.

Applying the glitter, with much focus.

It's a full family affair.

Look at these beautiful, shiny, formerly-white Easter eggs!

Special dinner courtesy of Granny: Yakisoba and mapo tofu. Delish!

Saturday morning, Dad is showering in Children.

Lucy and her lower lip mean business!

Reading Chirp magazine together.

Happy 30th birthday, Auntie Jasmine!

Bringing out the iPad is always an opportunity for some mess-free drawing!

Arlo's playing piano and Lucy's heading out. See you later, Lucy!

Special Saturday activity: Harborland! Here we go!

Granny jumped into the course with agility. Here, we're already 2 levels up.

Granny takes the low ground, Arlo takes the high ground.

Time to get our slide on!

Zoom zoom, here they come from all the way up there.

Everyone's still got their trampoline knees (and calves).

Arlo's enjoying himself. He's much more adventurous than when we came last June.

Meanwhile, in the baby zone, it's Lucy's first time at Harborland.

Our little climber was a little bit uncertain about the new environment.

What are these balls about?

Very interested in the elephant's little nose...

... and all these new toys!

Independently climbing up the padded stairs...

... trying not to get knocked out by the punching bags.

Getting ready to go down our first slide of the day.

Giving the balls another try.

Balls for the win!

Meanwhile, Arlo's doing some construction, both macro...

... and micro.

The tricycles are much more entertaining when you have a passenger to drive around.

Hold on, Lucy! Your driver is a wild man.

New vehicle: standing room only in the back. Now you really need to hold on tight, Lucy!

Uh oh! The crazy driver -- with hostage in trunk -- is being chased by the police. Will he pull over calmly, or will this chase continue?

Arlo surprised us all by scaling this (really rather vertical) volcano slide by himself.

Spot the buried treasure!

More punching bags: this time, for bigger kids.

And trying this zipline-like thing.

That's one way to enjoy a donut.

Here come Arlo and Dad on another slide.

The two, playing together for one brief iota of time.

Lucy's doing Round 2 with the balls.

She found the hovering balls very interesting... but I think it might have been the vibrations of the base that she enjoyed so much.

Trying to drive with the other kids... but not quite there yet.

And tryin the parkour course.

Surprisingly fearless (well, at least compared to last time!)

Starting to wind down: calmly painting a car.

Demonstrating great concentration.

The finished masterpiece!

Back at home, Lucys' feeling refreshed from her Harborland nap...

... while the morning's activities have caught up with Arlo and Mum.

Happy Easter! The Easter Bunny visited our house last night and left little chocolate eggs all over.

Lucy and Dad have found one (although they've also missed one, as the keen observer may see).

But speedy Arlo has found the majority!

Testing his haul.

Lucy's still not sold on this whole Easter thing.

It's Easter, so it's Sunday. And that means it's swimming for Arlo, too.

Showing off his new outfit: trunks, top, and goggles!

The ever-elusive back float.

Lucky Arlo: stopping for a cookie yet again!

Where are we, Lucy?

Special Sunday afternoon trip to Nong Bon park! It's Lucy's first time here.

Lucy is supposed to be napping, but instead is soaking everything in!

But the bigger news is from Arlo! He cracked pedaling, and can now ride his bike with ease!

There he goes, nothing but open roads, blue skies, and shade.

Granny and Dad, enjoying the walk, no children in sight.

Arlo made it all the way to the end of the path -- a whole 1.7 km!

Stopping to enjoy the view, now that we're here.

Lucy's enjoying it too.

Hanging out with Dad.

Group shot!

The hat ladies.

Everyone, and Arlo's newly-found pebbles.

Lucy, the nature scout.

Arlo was very excited to find trees the same height as him.

The ladies with the printed tops.

Spotted on the way back: one of Granny's friends. Her trip to Thailand is now complete.

And one of many egrets out for the afternoon.

Stopping to picnic and refuel on the way back. Less than a km to go, Arlo!

Lucy enjoyed the opportunity, to dog-watch. So many dogs in all shapes and sizes.

And the monkey sizes up this tree. Can it be climbed, he wonders?

Monday morning: a chocolate egg for breakfast? This day is off to some start!

Inventorying his shells -- it's been a little while.

Poor Granny, reading two books at once out of either side of her mouth.

Trying a home-made popcicle for the first time.

It's a hit -- but it's cold, right Lucy?

The two jailbirds.

Testing the water guns from last year to see if they still work. (Answer: no, not really.)

Granny has an instant audience making her smoothies.

Two thumbs up from Lucy!

Another breakfast, another chocolate egg? Someone is spoiled!

Lucy's getting an early start on her daily check of the book shelf.

This chair -- now also a jungle gym and jumperoo -- is probably not going anywhere anytime soon.

Oh my! Lucky Arlo got a new water gun to replace his old one. And it seems he and Dad went straight to the big leagues.

Learning about water pressure.

Poor neighbors.

Lucy's giving an evening lecture to her diligent students, Blueberry and Lucy Pig.

Good morning! It's Songkran, the day we've all been waiting for!

Lucy's got her camera out, ready to document the day.

Posing in the stylish Songkran shirt that barely fits her.

Lazy Songkran morning.

Is it Songkran, or is it Christmas?

Yes. These two look up to no good.

The little soldier struggles to maneuver his weapon, but he succeeds at testing it on his sister.

Here we are, right on time, to ring in the Songkran celebrations at K-Village.

We got there early -- which was fortunate, because it quickly became chaotic!

Warming up, getting their bearings, and waiting for victims.

Taking aim.

Mister Innocent there, pretending he's not up to anything.

Aiming at his own father.

Maybe this is fun?

Dad and his two trainees.

3-on-1? I'll side with you, Arlo!

Coming face-to-face with the enemy.

The ladies.

Mum and the babies -- it's the first time Songkran has been on for real since either Arlo or Lucy has been around to celebrate it!

Refueling break!

Vertical file! The view is better from up here.

Someone is gleeful and has gotten the hang of this.

My Wes Anderson shot.

Someone might be finding all of this a bit much!

Taking a break and browsing the food stalls nearby.

Meanwhile, the pool is finally full, and Arlo's in line for the slide at once!

A fun, but mild, first attempt -- the slide was still dry.

A significantly wilder second attempt. Bang on the bum!

The crowd by the time we left -- around 11:30.

It only seemed to get busier than this, as Songkran went on!

Well, someone is pooped!

I stand corrected. Some people are pooped!

Lucy's awake and refreshed from her nap.

Granny's refreshed her Songkran shirt. In fact, she has more Songkran shirts than I do!

Late afternoon walk around the neighborhood. Who's that cutie in the mirror, Lucy?

Too tired to walk? Oh boy, how are we going to take on Days 2 & 3?

We end this very long, very busy, very tiring week with Arlo pretending to be Mum at work.

Bangkok Week 771

April 6, 2023

This week, there was lots of swimming; a round of flu shots; a blooming cactus; and the start of the Songkran season! And we were fortunate to be with Granny to celebrate her birthday… many times!

Back at swimming, Lucy? It must be Friday!

Lucy is waiting patiently for class to start.

And what's this? Dad's taking you swimming today? Oh right, Mum's still in Amsterdam!

Safari Arlo is exited for the weekend at pick-up.

Uh oh! Both of the monkeys are playing in the car now?

Cooling off in the pool -- it's that time of year!

And enjoying another of Dad and Granny's popsicles.

Someone has a pinwheel on his bike now, and is very excited about it.

Almost as tall as Granny!

Mum's home! FInally! What goodies did she bring?

But, there's no time to celebrate. It's off to the doctor for our flu shots... before we catch the actual flu!

Thankfully, they've brought the play equipment back to the waiting room on the well-kids side of the clinic too.

Looks like a reflection in the mirror, right?

Arlo's having his blood pressure taken for the first time, like a big kid.

And as a prize for a good hospital visit: lunch in the car.

Lucy's wondering what all the fuss is about outside in the car.

Lazy Saturday afternoon.

It's a comfortable couch, isn't it Lucy?

Trying to take a side-by-side photo of the matching t-shirts.

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, Lucy!

There we go! Cute matching t-shirts from Granny.

Granny made delicious Mac & Cheese for dinner -- yum!

Two monkeys making mischief on Sunday morning.

Lucy seems to like Miffy!

Matching headwear. Pretty?

Not only is today Sunday... but it's Granny's birthday!

Blowing out the candle on Granny's croissant is teamwork.

Building a very elaborate house.

Time for swimming!

Someone is pushing the limits.

Practicing his technique.

Stopping at a jungle -- I mean the veggie store across the street -- on the way home.

Hugs for Miffy!

Taping someone's mouth shut -- what a great idea! Should've thought of this earlier!

And this is a photo of poor Granny trying to have a nap downstairs. First and last time she tries that!

Sharing a t-shirt with my buddy.

An extended cousin came to visit, with her daughter and granddaughter (2 y.o.), who live in Germany now.

The gang.

But wait, Granny -- there's more!

Can't forget the birthday cake.

Blowing out the candles is a family affair!

Yum yum -- oreo blizzard cake.

Lucy approves, too.

Birthday photo with the grandkids -- although we waited too late in the day, and the shadows are ... present.

Middle Eastern for Granny's birthday dinner. Yum!

Monday afternoon doorbusters' special at Big C: buy 1 pack of toilet paper, get 1 boy free!

Help! We've lost Arlo under the shopping.

All tired out.

Granny is helping Chrysanthemum get ready for school on Tuesday morning.

The most flattering wefie around.

Getting ready for Songkran by trying on her shirts. They fit -- barely!

What's this? *Another* delivery of fruit from Trat!

What are those hairy things, Lucy?

Whatever they are, she can't get enough of them.

She knows she's found something good.

It's a race against time to get through this fruit!

And just in the nick of time (actually, a few days too late) -- Granny's birthday gifts are here.

Arlo and Lucy are very eager to open them, too.

Tuesday afternoon treat -- Arlo's friends Marlies and Botho come over to play (literally).

Delicious fruit!

Oh my. It's a sleepy Wednesday morning.

No wait -- the bookworms are just staying in bed to read books. I'll take it.

Arlo's contributing to working through the fruit -- thank you, Arlo.

And full of gas, Arlo drives away in his taxi. Lucy can't believe it.

Looks like a wild morning on the streets of Bangkok!

Taxi has been modified -- now with second row. (It was a bit limiting to have a taxi that was full once the driver sat down.)

Zoom zoom. Hang on, Lucy, seems your taxi driver is a bit crazed!

What are you doing there, Granny?

Oh no, the taxi driver found a real set of wheels at school.

Hey! This cactus is blooming for the first time since we've had it...

Another shot of the cactus. We actually thought it was dying! But here we are.

So many pictures, because it may be another 7+ months until it blooms again!

Granny and a thrilled Lucy.

Uh oh. This photo is definitely of two monkeys up to no good!

Granny and Lucy are attacking Arlo!

soon bedtime for these monkeys. (Arlo just looks like a stretched version of Lucy.)

And the time has come! The beginning of the Songkran fesitivities.

Lucy's not quite sure what she's wearing...

... but is reassured to see her brother's doing the same.

Practice your kicks, Lucy!

Team shot, before Arlo heads off to school.

There it is -- the ham smile I've been waiting for.

It's the penultimate day of class for the term, and so they're celebrating Songkran early.

Arlo seems to remember from last year.

Enjoying himself in the specially-decorated sand.

And enjoying the splashing with his friends.

Back at home, Granny and Lucy are wondering how to spend this public holiday.

I know! Let's take a trip...

... to everyone's favorite store, Decathlon!

Lucy is enjoying this inflatable pool.

Surf's up, Lucy. Enjoy the summer!

Arlo is very proud of the flower garland he made at school. Happy Songkran!

Putting it on Granny's wrist.

If that weren't enough, Lucy has a make-up lesson at 2pm.

Lucy's wondering what the heck she's doing here, and who are these kids.

Still in a bit of shock...

... and not in any hurry to crawl across the mat.

We end this week with a serenade by our budding pianist. See you next week!

Amsterdam

April 1, 2023

A beautiful week (well, 4 1/2 days) in cool, sunny Amsterdam. I must say, the city has me sold: so bicycle-centric, so green. And my, what a direct culture!

Lucky Mum is off to Amsterdam (via Paris) for a week-long getaway. I mean, work trip!

We've landed safely -- albeit late -- in Paris on this 777-300ER. And are now off to the terminal for a very quick transit.

And here's the little blue KLM that kindly waited for me. (Actually, it was waiting for a large group of school kids, but I benefited!)

A cute breakfast.

So many wind turbines across the Dutch countryside.

Flying over The Maasvlakte, a massive man-made extension of the Europoort port within the Port of Rotterdam..

So many industrial facilities -- all with solar panels on the roof!

Keeping a keen eye out for tulips...

... but only green, green fields as far as the eye can see.

Finally made it! Hello Amsterdam.

Outside the (downtown) hotel, it's a brisk morning (just above freezing) but the sky is blue!

One of the many house boats on the canals.

Less than 3 minutes outside, and along comes an excavator boat with a front shovel!

And the bikes! So many bikes!

And I managed to take a photo of the only person in Amsterdam wearing a mask!

Another house boat.

Long shadows -- remnants of winter remain.

Bicycles, as far as the eye can see.

A good boy.

More bikes!

The back of The Royal Palace Amsterdam (Koninklijk Paleis Amsterdam).

And a shopping mall, in a deceptive neo-gothic building.

Cute old buildings squashing up against each other for warmth.

Here comes one of Amsterdam's many trams!

Entrance to the metro: a no-nonsense, very efficient little system.

And arriving at Amsterdam South - a little business district.

Tuesday morning: another brisk day, but a nice walk into the office helps warm up!

Sleepy canal boats and clear sky reflections.

Colorful (but not all straight) old residential buildings.

More morning reflections over the canals.

A bike showing its support of Ukraine.

The Rijksmuseum, with a once-in-a-lifetime Vermeer exhibit (tickets apparently impossible to get!)

The museum from the other side.

Some very cute houses along the Noorder Amstelkanaal.

Saw lots of kids being shuttled around in bikes like this.

A very cool complex (Valley) as we approach the office district.

Have I mentioned the bikes!? And this was just the overflow parking. The main parking is underground.

Waiting for our evening canal tour opposite the National Opera & Ballet.

View from inside the canal this time!

Iconic Amsterdam at night.

The buildings are narrow because they were taxed based on width.

Reflections.

And more reflections.

Thursday morning, spotted this Chiangmai Spa. I thought I'd come farther than this!

Woah! And now we're down south.

Heading back to the hotel after the last day -- beautiful (and warmer) weather.

Museumplein, between the Van Gogh museum and the Rijksmuseum.

It is charming that the walk passes right through the museum.

Picturesque weeping willows (?) along the canal.

A rainy Friday morning (finally). I have 30 min before my taxi to the airport. So let's do a quick walk!

Buildings definitely ain't straight. Apparently they were built on wooden foundations, which expand with the water / tides.

The cost of a houseboat is expensive, between maintenance and rent.

The canals are like a parallel set of streets!

The Anne Frank House, where she and her family hid.

Westerkerk Church, where Rembrandt is buried.

More intersecting canals.

I'm told this is more typical weather.

But still, I daresay it would be beautiful to live along here!

Something tells me these are not the original windows.

No free real estate for bikes!

They're redoing a lot of the brickwork / cobblestones throughout the city.

I would love to know how big the Thai population is, in this city of 900k people! They get a shout-out on this truck! (I guess they're all restauranteurs...)

Walking around the back of De Nieuwe Kerk (the New Church).

And here's a better view.

The front (?) of the church?

I've found myself in Dam Square, overlooked by the Royal Palace.

H&M -- another noteworthy landmark around the square.

And Madam Tussaud -- true royalty.

And a local, high-end department store to round it out.

Looking back at the palace.

Nationaal Monument, commemorating the dead of WWII.

Final photo -- now need to dash to the airport.

Miffy and I are ready for the long trip home.

As we established earlier, the tulips aren't in season yet -- but that doesn't stop the enterprising airport shops. Why not take home a bouquet of wooden tulips!?

That's quite the storm cloud departing Amsterdam.

The skies were busy over Eastern Europe on the flight back to Bangkok. Great view of westbound aircraft flying maybe 5000 feet above us? And this one, who was headed south and passed right overhead!

Saturday morning sunrise over Bangkok. Amsterdam was lovely, but good to be back!

Bangkok Week 770

March 30, 2023

It was a busy week, including a visit to the park for the first time in a long while. (The air’s been bad.) And then Mum jet-set off to Amsterdam (photos to follow separately) while everyone else enjoyed themselves at home.

What? It's Friday already!? Cute Lucy's lost track of time.

Lucky Lucy has Granny on the sidelines cheering her on at swimming today.

Where is Lucy? Here is Lucy!

Getting better with the noodle.

Tummy kicks are tough, because there are so many distractions!

Cup conditioning -- she never seems to enjoy it, but also never complains.

Lucy enjoys the mat. It's an opportunity to check out her peers up close.

Meanwhile at school, Arlo is enjoying the 3 Little Pigs' house.

Look at me! I'm sitting on a stool!

Visiting the park for the first time in a long time.

Look who spotted us within minutes of arriving!

Arlo's a big boy now: he can ride the swing by himself.

And Lucy is keen to explore. It's her first time back at the playground since she mastered walking!

Climbing around with the big kids now.

These spinning tic-tac-toe pieces were really interesting!

Arlo's trying to figure out if this head-bonking bar is good for anything.

Finding her footing on the playground.

Lucy really got a kick out of it!

Arlo's all over the place now, but stops for a second to drive the car.

Here comes Lucy, first time through the tunnel!

And over the bridge.

Wait for me, Arlo!

It's great to have a Big Brother to follow around!

And Big Brother is off to ride the jet ski.

Meanwhile, Lucy is retracing her steps.

After all that, she was unwilling to slide down the slide.

Trying one of the spring things. Boingy-boing.

Arlo has set up his construction site, and is digging away.

Lucy is trying her hardest not to eat the grass and leaves nearby. So tempting.

Say "picnic"!

Checking out the Sala at the pond's edge, at Arlo's request.

Giving Mr. Tired Legs a piggy back ride back to the car.

Wasting no time back at home: now driving a tuk-tuk.

Lucky Granny and Dad are passengers in this wild ride.

Lucy says, hey, where's my ride?

Some momentary sibling love.

It looks like sweet whispers, but I'm pretty sure Arlo was trying to put his nose in Lucy's eye.

Well, he certainly wins as Number One Entertainer around here!

Lucy and Spiderman.

Granny getting Scrabble help she never knew she needed.

Long day -- everyone's pooped!

Look at that cute Sunday outfit, Lucy!

Granny and the boys have just left for swimming -- so it's just us.

Granny should get a membership to this pool!

Arlo's enjoying his own private class again.

It's all about technique now.

And special fun for Water Safety week: how to safely tumble out of a boat!

Oh! Stopping for an post-swim treat at you-know-where.

Someone's looking a little tired.

Trying to climb over the foot stool to the forbidden lands.

I see you through that donut, Lucy!

Enjoying her tunnel!

Uh oh! Someone just stole Dad's glasses!

The durian are fragrant; the durian are ready to be opened!

Arlo is fascinated. In fact, he's been waiting for this moment all week!

Taking a bite of the fresh durian.

And Lucy's turn! (Mixed reviews.)

And Granny's turn, too. (Credit for trying.)

Late afternoon walk around the neighborhood.

Checking out the super car.

Monday morning. Wait, where's Mum gone?

Arlo's created a fun game for himself.

Playing with Granny.

Kisses for giraffe.

That's funny - kisses for giraffe!

Oh my! Lucky Lucy! Look at these two new pairs of pants that Granny bought you!

She can't believe her luck!

And very cute matching t-shirts from Muji. Thanks, Granny!

Trying a new bingo game with Granny.

And going to Donki to drive the tractor trailer that Arlo was eyeing last time.

This time though, Arlo is steering all by himself.

Drive safely, Arlo!

Pretty sure Arlo's going to be at the top of this tree, soon.

Oh sorry, I mean Chrysanthemum.

Uh oh! Emergency doctor's visit to check out some gnarly bug bites.

The good news, however, is that they've finally brought back the play equipment in the waiting room!

Back at school, Arlo has enlisted his friend Mika on his construction project.

And a long overdue playdate with Arlo's friend, Lamar.

Hamming it up together.

Check out the blooming cactus!

Practicing his penmanship with the new erasable markers. Fun!