Bangkok Week 807

December 14, 2023

It was a busy week! Arlo hosted us for his wonderful Christmas Show at school; P’Kate and her family came to visit; we swam; went to the farm; checked out the new downtown IKEA; had a visit from Uncle Simon; everyone got sick; and Arlo turned 4.25 years old!

We start the week with the much-awaited Christmas Show at Arlo's school.

The stage is set, and the audience is waiting with bated breath.

Behind the scenes, the K1s are waiting patiently togther.

Our snazzy little Christmas Tree, waiting for the curtains to open.

We present K1 Snowflakes, dancing to "Christmas, Christmas".

And all the classes on stage for the finale.

Someone was not at all happy about the "snow" atop his head.

Looking cute in his Christmas Tree dress.

Group shot.

What a wild Christmas Tree!

Checking out the fire place with Martin.

Helping to tidy up, so that the staff can enjoy their own Christmas party.

Saturday morning: a make-up lesson for Lucy, since we were all occupied during Arlo's Christmas show.

She can't wait to go in!

Here's Lucy!

Getting better at paddling and kicking.

Look at Lucy swim on her own!

Resting up after an exhausting lesson with Teacher Big.

Sunday afternoon: back at the pool.

The big fish is working on both front crawl and backstroke now.

Playing together on Mum & Dad's messy bed.

Checking out the new house. It's coming along!

The ground floor AC has been installed. I'm sure this will come in handy in April!

The ground floor bathroom is almost done, too.

The new awnings.

Arlo the artist, practicing his fine motor skills.

Oh my goodness! Two demanding customers asking for foot massages from K. Wan!

This is Lucy. She's supposed to be brushing her teeth. Do you think she wants to?

Oh no. Spiderman has *finally* figured out how to get things off the high shelves.

P'Kate is over for a pre-holiday visit. It's been almost half a year since we last saw them.

She brought a fun matching game.

Then everyone tried their hand at drawing... the same picture.

Lucy's supervising.

It's a drawing competition. "Complete the picture". Let's see who can be more creative.

Arlo's completion.

Now it's block time.

And nap time.

P'Kate's house...

... and a stage where P'Kate and Arlo recreated their Christmas performances.

Annual line-up photo.

Unintentionally visiting the farm! (We'd meant to visit the Bangkok Prep holiday fair, but got the day wrong.)

Checking out the touch-sensitive plants.

Bananas!

Still lots of ducks.

The food-du-jour for the sheep and goats are carrots now.

Lucy wasn't so sure, but Arlo was confident as ever.

Picnic dinner.

Very impressively peeling an entire orange.

Who wore it better??

Public Holiday Monday: checking out the brand-new EmSphere mall, and brand-new IKEA.

The elevated walkway connecting it to Emporium and EmQuartier is a surprisingly long walk.

Minimalist interior.

Large atrium in the middle for stalls.

Great views of the BTS!

And the attraction we came for! Good thing we arrived right at opening time.

Trying out a desk chair for kids.

This dog was calling Lucy's name from the moment we walked in.

Two urban shoppers.

These two worked up an appetite. So let's enjoy the view, and an 8-baht ice cream cone before the long trek home.

Great view of the neighboring construction site in the elevator ride down.

Rudolph is backing into our house.

And a visit from Uncle Simon, after over a year!

Arlo's taking great case of his new cat, recently adopted from IKEA.

Dog is accompanying Lucy everywhere these days, including into the bathroom.

Having fun with the air filter!

The mattresses for Arlo's bunk bed have arrived.

Enjoying soup for lunch.

Snatching all of Arlo's favorite friends when he's not looking.

And enjoying some ice cream.

What a life, Lucy!

Saying bye-bye to the giant ball. It's off to a new home, that will make better use of it.

Sunset over Ekkamai.

New baseball cap for Lucy.

Measuring up with her brother.

Someone is turning 4 years and 3 months old today. 4.25!

And Arlo brought home quite the bundle from school, including his Learning Journey!

Night night from the two monkeys. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 806

December 7, 2023

It was a busy week! We went to a birthday party (the signature piñata party!); hosted two of Arlo’s school friends over for a play date; celebrated Thai Father’s Day; went to a new bike park; checked in on the house; and got the car all ready for Christmas. Phew!

It's Friday, so it's swimming.

A quick selfie before we lock up the phone in the locker.

It's also December 1st, so that means start of the advent calendar!

Swapping the lights on the tree for some that work.

Big hug sandwich!

Saturday morning painting. Lucy doesn't mind paint hands at all.

In fact, she applied the paint to her face like sunscreen.

The finished product.

Meanwhile, Dad and Arlo took the car for a wash.

Posing with a Porsche at swimming.

Teamwork!

Enjoying cupcakes at his friend's 4th birthday.

A new jungle gym to climb.

And the signature pinata.

Enjoying their spoils right away.

It's the first year that Arlo's had the courage or interest to climb this thing.

And Lucy's not far on his heels.

I must say, Lucy was impressive in her own right.

Next year, Arlo will be at the top.

Lucy's first time in a sandbox. She left absolutely coated in sand. Rather like a breaded fish fillet.

The children are gone, but I feel awfully full. Better sleep it off.

Working on his countdown calendar.

Lucy's enjoying her chocolate too. So far, this is the only door she's been allowed.

Going for a Sunday morning walk.

Puddle-splashing.

The calm before the storm: doing some coloring...

... and some magnetiles.

And then came Arlo's school friends, Martin, Brooklyn, and his younger brother Boss.

It was about as fun and chaotic as you'd expect.

Christmas pose.

Boss is about 9 months older than Lucy.

Martin's family brought a toy raffle with them. So the kids are lining up to draw a number out of a hat.

This is where Arlo and Lucy's new ukulele came from!

Crawling over Arlo...

... and pushing this car that can miraculously hold three 4-year-old boys.

Lots of traffic around here today!

Arlo made sure to get a good look at their Tesla before saying good-bye.

Someone's really into her brother's goggles.

They even stay on after all the clothes come off.

Our car is all ready for the holiday season now, too!

We had a parent-teacher conference on Monday morning, so Mum got to spend a few minutes with Arlo before class started.

Apple FaceID worked on this face! It's either really great technology, or a hoax.

Serenading his sister with his Ukulele and singing.

Lucy's turn to try.

The next morning, the jam session continues.

Lucy wanted to take a picture of herself with the tree. So here we are.

Happy Father's Day, dad!

Taking a holiday trip over to the house.

Scaffolding is up in Arlo's room to close off the hole where the old ceiling fan once was.

That new Sansiri condo is going up quickly.

The mirrors are up in the bathrooms.

Mesmerized by the garbage truck.

Lucy's bathroom is more or less done now.

The cabinets are in, too.

The closet in Mum & Dad's room is coming together.

These are the IKEA drawers that will go inside.

Mirror in the guest bathroom.

We salvaged the giant mirror that used to be hung in the big room, and have mounted it in the office.

The ground floor bathroom is coming along.

And the scaffolding to paint the exterior is still up.

Lucy lying amidst quite the scene.

At long last, visiting the Happy Healthy Bike Lane at Suvarnabhumi.

Lucy waited patiently while Arlo tried out the course for pedal bikes.

She was more interested in the airplanes flying overhead.

Now over to the balance bike zone. Watch out for this serious biker chick.

Arlo rented a large balance bike, and was off to the races.

Stopping to point out a plane.

The sun's almost below the horizon.

Juice box break.

Enjoying the balance bike zone.

Determined to return the scooter on her own.

Time to head back to the car.

Zoom zoom!

Someone's got a case of helmet head!

Back to school the next day.

Uh oh! What's that chimney doing there?

Long winter shadows outside the post office.

Kicking back and enjoying Mum's ice water.

Serenading us with one last Ukulele song. Bye for now!

Bangkok Week 805

November 30, 2023

Tis officially the holiday season! This week, we put up the tree; celebrate Loy Krathong (which is quite late this year); enjoy a visit with friends; and just get into the holiday spirit! 🎄

Welcome back! It's Friday, and Lucy is continuing to hone her kicks.

The ring is Lucy's favorite toy now, and she tries to hold onto it for the entire lesson.

In she goes, with spectacular form!

The cactus is in bloom again. Catch it before it goes!

We reassembled the play pen to take photos and sell it, but Lucy's enjoying it like new again.

She's also discovered the balancing cactus toy, and is quite good at it!

Enjoying breakfast in their "hedgehog house" the next morning.

It's November 25th, so you know what that means! It's time to bring out the tree!

It's Lucy's first year really absorbing what's going on... and she's wondering what that tree is doing in her living room!

The conductor.

And it's up!

Then, P'It and P'At -- in town from Khon Kaen -- stopped by just in time to put the finishing touches on the tree, and join us for lunch.

Lucy's supervising the boys.

Learning piano from P'It.

Milk race!

Memorializing this visit with a class tree photo.

Evening hugs.

Another Sunday morning trip to the park.

Lucy could easily monopolize a swing for her entire stay.

No qualms swinging with the big kids.

Arlo's here to practice his volleyball skills today.

Milk break!

Why play in the tunnel when you can play on it?

Building her confidence on the unfamiliar jungle gym.

Here I am!

Enjoying his weekly dose of "Our Planet".

Quick stop at the new house; Arlo's first time seeing his new bed assembled.

Cabinet is in under Arlo's sink.

And the back yard has been painted.

Wondering where the floors are.

Arlo insisted on some basketball before heading home.

Happy Loy Krathong!

Lucy's owning this outfit.

Lots of exciting Loy Krathong activities going on at school.

Making Som Tum with Kru Kul (the Thai teacher).

Very impressed by a wind-up toy.

Riding a traditional horse.

And finally making his own Krathong.

Group shot.

With his buddy, Martin.

Bravely standing right in the middle of the dance circle!

Lucy enjoyed Loy Krathong activities at playgroup today, too.

Big day at the new house! The scaffolding is up to patch the cracks and paint the front...

... and the fiberoptic cable is being run to the house, too. We now have internet!

Enjoying some evening snacks and a laugh.

Sizing up the opportunity...

... and making her move!

Lucy, you look cute in pigtails! Leave them in!

Making a spiral pattern as he puts the beads away.

Looking good in floral shades, Arlo!

Eating cereal is very serious business.

Sporting a sparkly skirt from Marlies.

Lucy's bathroom's cabinets are going in...

... and the master bath will be next.

Fixing the paint inside the driveway.

Ice cream is also serious business.

This pretty much sums things up.

Cute hair, Lucy. Now keep it like that!

The countdown to Christmas is finally on!

25 more sleeps (and 2 additional Christmas trees...)

Staged hug...

And good night kiss.

Lucy's new favorite plaything.

See you next week!

Bangkok Week 804

November 23, 2023

We enjoy a few lovely days of cool, low-humidity weather and spend it with friends, at the park, and generally enjoying the outdoors. Lucy and Arlo also finally got their own sunglasses, and Arlo a new bike helmet. And our not-so-little girl Lucy turned 1 year and 8 months old this week.

Happy Friday!

Spotted this watermelon helmet on the way to Lucy's swimming.

Lucy has so much confidence and independence in the water, she walks right in on her own.

Getting better with her kicks.

Jump!

Afternoon ice cream for everyone.

It's a beautiful 21-degree morning!

Not only is it cool, but the air is green.

Breakfast with one of Mum's ex-colleagues.

"Helping" Ba Wan with the laundry.

Setting up her observation point on the balcony.

Waiting for Dad to return.

Lunch and playdate with one of Lucy's first friends.

Watching a very serious "our planet" video.

Very, very serious.

Someone is being deceptively cute.

Sawatdee krub! Another cool Bangkok morning.

Checking out the citrus plants.

Taking advantage of the cool morning by spending time at the park. The new IKEA is soon going to open!

Lucy spent at least half an hour on the (big kid) swing!

At least Arlo explored other parts of the playground.

One of Arlo's schoolmates happened to be there, too.

Lucky Arlo! They just re-paved the roads in the park, and the equipment was still there.

Posing with the paver.

And the compactor.

Look at the funny little wheels on the paver!

Milk break.

Lucy, I'm not sure that's going to work.

Everyone on the swings.

And a quick stop in the volley ball courts (we remembered to bring our ball!)

And then a make-up lesson for Lucy in the afternoon.

Arlo's "fire gun".

These monkeys had a ball rolling around the bedroom on an office chair.

Not only is Lucy strong, but she's clever: she totally understood how to steer and turn.

Picnic dinner!

Watch out for this stylish lady with a fire gun!

Monday mornings are tough.

Happy 1 year and 8 months, Lucy!

Learning how to use chopsticks.

Morning at the house, while they install the hobs and hood. Arlo's bathroom's cabinet has been installed.

And the hobs and hood are in!

Testing to make sure it works.

Looks nice!

More door knobs are in.

And trim around the base of this new wall.

Sneaking a peak into the end of Arlo's Ninja lesson.

That's right, Lucy sleeps with all sorts of things: water bottles, tooth brushes...

Demonstrating how the water pump at school works.

Lucy enjoying another Tuesday playgroup.

Arlo's showing off his new skills.

Good night hug! (Arlo's the one who asked to have it photographed.)

See, Granny? Plenty of friends for Lucy already.

Oh wow, look at this cool dude!

Lucy's cheeks are so big, the sun glasses can hang down from them.

Arlo sporting his new shades and helmet.

A face-off.

Another evening hug show.

It's a helmet kind of morning for Lucy.

Two cool dudes, in a hot place!

And closing off the week with an Arlo-sized blizzard. See you next time!

Bangkok Week 803

November 16, 2023

This week, we enjoyed a nice cycle at Rot Fai Park, assembled Arlo’s bunk bed at long last, removed the awnings at the new house, and said good-bye to the rainy season! (We hope.)

Happy Friday! Starting the day with a good laugh.

Popsicles are very serious business.

"Arlo, smile!"

"Arlo, pretend like you just heard a funny joke!"

Someone was really pleased to wear her headphones (into the bath).

What? A slide down to the couch?

Swinging like a pro.

They replaced the old sand with brick, because the stray cats were using it as a giant litter box.

Checking out the basket ball court. (Rather, checking out the neighborhood from the elevated vantage point.)

Looks like a new low-rise condo going up right behind the new moo baan.

The project, from the front.

Climbing the neighbor's fence.

A quick trip to Donki to run some errands.

Elevator-spotting before coming home.

Riding in our new 4-row car for breakfast!

And then time for a spin around Rot Fai park; we haven't been in a while. Lucy's trying the rear seat for once.

Not so bad back here!

Spot our friends!

The boys can't believe how many lizards there are.

Taking a break at one of the playgrounds.

Arlo enjoyed the various exercise equipment and obstacles.

Slide, Lucy!?

The cycling team!

Balloon stop! Arlo had his heart set on a balloon from this seller since our last trip to this park.

One airplane and one octopus later, we're ready to resume our cycle.

Wait, I thought *Lucy* was sitting back there!

I guess we left Arlo and Lucy behind at the park. But at least we're coming home with two cool new balloons.

Ice cream is serious business, too.

Posing with a water meter.

She can't help but take a peek.

Picnic dinner on the balcony.

Spaghetti and meatballs for the adults. (The kids were uninterested.)

But here they are, eating aged parmesan cheese off a skateboard, "like a cat".

Cream on her bum, and cream all over her face. Wonder how that happened.

Monday morning project: assemble the bunk bed.

And done!

Now we just need mattresses for this thing.

They've started to install the door hardware.

Moving this set of wall plugs, so that the giant mirror (that came with the house) can be installed on the office wall.

The kitchen faucet; I think we haven't taken a photo of it yet.

We had a heavy storm the other night; and it got the better of the awning over Arlo's balcony.

The little red Jazz is back from the shop, and ready to be sold.

And we have our first bidder!

Lucy is very talented: she can walk around, while drinking her bottle and holding a balloon.

She wanted very badly to bring Bear into the bath.

Daintily washing her toes.

Mr. Science exploring the new setup at school.

And Lucy's morning walk...

... to harvest the purple flowers around the corner.

Guess who's 4 years and 2 months old today!?

The awning people came...

... and removed all the awnings for replacement.

Lucy is very cute with her hair tied back. If only shew could keep it that way!

Arlo has some milk on his face, somehow.

Helping Dad take the restraint bar off her chair.

Hiding under a blanket turned out to be a very popular activity.

Be careful, Arlo! What goes around...

... comes around!

And trying on her Christmas dress. It still fits... barely! See you next week!

Bangkok Week 802

November 9, 2023

Lucy has recently acquired a new stank face, and she’s trying it on at every occasion. We all enjoyed a play date at the home of one of Arlo’s classmates, and experienced a series of late-afternoon storms almost every day! Mum worked from the office all week, so there may be fewer photos than usual.

Excited that it's Friday!

Waiting patiently while Dad drops some things off at the new house, on the way to swimming.

Everyone kick the mat together!

Lucy had a really good back float today.

Modeling one of the dresses that Marlies gave to Lucy before they left.

Also trying out her newly-found stank face.

Helping herself to "red ant egg curry". Yum yum!

Selfie.

Lucy really likes the tiger in this book of poetry.

Watching the robot glide by at the fancy new Tops in Tonglor.

It's so fancy there's a dedicated Tesla charging area in the parking.

More stank face.

Good lighting for photos!

Dad and the monkeys.

Sunday morning breakfast fort!

What do you mean, K. Wan just cleaned the room yesterday?

Taking a tuk-tuk to Aya's house for a long-overdue playdate.

Their apartment building has a nice rooftop garden.

Aya's sister, Doreen, did a great job taking care of Lucy.

Aya and Arlo trying their hands at table tennis.

The new condos in Ekkamai 5 / Thonglor 10 are almost ready to move in.

Lucy and Doreen.

Arlo and Aya.

Back inside, some nice cold juice to go around.

And some arts and crafts...

... before heading home.

Mum's colleague, Cory, was in town from Germany and stopped by for lunch.

He brought this lovely box of chocolate...

... which Arlo couldn't wait to start in.

A quick visit to the house, during a heavy downpour!

The steps for Arlo's bunkbed have been brought up, and we'll attempt to assemble the rest next week.

The bed frame that we'll use in the master bedroom has been brought in, too, and it's plenty spacious still.

The doors -- including this bathroom door -- are painted and installed.

The king-sized bed is firmly planted in the guest room; the closets are in their final place, too.

Office door is in.

And an assortment of furniture is clustered in the living room.

Kitchen is coming together.

The sink, and the fancy faucet.

The cupboard doors are in and painted now.

The box makes the fridge look larger than it really is. It won't jut out quite that much.

Lucy's graduated to footless pajamas (also called, pants) and so she's sleeping with this light blanket now.

Popsicles are serious business!

Arlo's helping Lucy wipe her nose.

The monkey? Koala?

Pretty sure that's not how they envisioned the bridge would be crossed.

View from Mum's office: I'd say that's a big storm out there!

Lucy's taken to crawling and sitting on the table in recent weeks. We'd better nip this behavior in the bud!

Arlo the helper.

I see, he hones his cooking skills at school!

Fighting a smile while doing her stank face.

Ice pop for lunch...

... and ice cream for dinner? Oh my!

Stole dad's dinner seat.

Night night and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 801

November 2, 2023

What a fun-packed week! We celebrated international day, went to 2 birthday parties, had 3 Halloween celebrations (and missed a 4th), made multiple house visits, and even did some painting! Phew!

A year's flown by; it's International Day at Arlo's school again.

Quite the turn-out today.

Here comes Arlo's class, parading out.

And now, going up to do their performance.

It was to an Italian song.

Huge thanks to Lamar's parents, who were on the correct side to get good photos!

After the performances are done, it's a quick flip to set up the Canada booth!

We had lots of customers throughout the morning...

... making these cute little maple leaves.

When Dad applies for Canadian citizenship, we'll submit this photo.

Visiting the Netherlands...

... and Lamar's Mums. I mean, Australia.

Quick trip to London.

And making a cactus in Israel.

But the US was the winner, with a sand pit full of Monster Trucks!

Arlo giving a tour of some of the things he's working on in class.

Meanwhile, lots of customers at the Canada booth!

Even Teacher Kamila stopped by.

We even got some customers for the ice skates.

The boys representing Canada.

Lucy, is that the right way to sit on a stool?

Dad and Arlo spent Saturday morning assembling this paper lantern from Taiwan.

Taking after her brother, Lucy likes to lie on the floor and push cars around too.

Swimming on Saturday instead of Friday this week, thanks to International Day.

Taking her ice cream very seriously.

They've created their own chaise lounge.

And then it was off to Ekkamai 20 to celebrate Lamar's 3rd birthday.

Lucy wanted to swim so badly, but it was really quite chilly (compared to the water she's used to, anyway).

The party was a nice opportunity for Arlo to see his friend Mika, who moved to a new school this year.

We think Mika's sister Maki looks similar to Lucy.

Cake time!

Of course, here's Arlo with his finger up his nose.

Lucy enjoyed the cake, and did impressively well for having skipped her nap!

Heading home via e-tuk-tuk.

Someone insisted on sleeping with Spike!

Another day, another round of celebrations.

This time, Halloween at K-Village.

Well, Arlo and his monster truck look a little bit out of place.

Nemo's going with the flow.

It was really just a market, with Halloween decorations up.

Getting her first Halloween candies.

May as well enjoy the small playground while we're here.

Wow, Lucy! That's some impressive climbing for a little clown fish!

Driving home.

Dad had prepared small buckets of treats for them at home.

Arlo asked to do some painting; so here we are. Using up the last of the paint that the school sent home 2 years ago when there was a COVID exposure.

And at long last, preparing "Cloud" to be hung up.

New art in the living room!

Our weekly visit to the new house. The new wood floors are uncovered, and look great!

The mis-installed glass in Arlo's bathroom is now in the right place.

Lucy is personally testing the new wall and banister on the top floor.

The floors in Lucy's room.

And Lucy's bathroom (we'll need to order a nice IKEA mirror for this wall.)

The master bedroom, although this bed will be moved into the guest room.

And the new book shelf is installed in the playroom!

Ceiling fans are in, too.

And the kitchen is coming along nicely.

The island lights are installed and working.

Sink is installed...

And backsplash tiles are in, too.

The corner for the washer & dryer.

Arlo asked to take this photo.

Finally, stopping down the street at Thomas's 3rd birthday party...

... just in time for the cake.

Lucy really enjoyed this car...

... and this water table.

Impromptu Monday playgroup at Nest.

Lucy was enjoying the Halloween theme, with her buddy the orangutan.

This single cactus paddle really is trying to set a record.

Lucy's new popper toy.

The bubbles are kind of hard to press!

And finally, on the real halloween, Baby Blue Monster Truck gets his encore.

It's also appliance delivery day at the new house.

The washer and dryer are in.

And the squat fridge is in, too.

The climbing monkey.

Wearing his new bedside lamp shade.

Another bowl of ice cream for the monkey (who now associates sitting at the dining table with ice cream - how's that for good parenting!?)

Washing off all the vanilla. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 800!

October 26, 2023

We take our first trip in the new car to Trat. (And it’s proving to be a great investment, I should say.) Arlo and Lucy had a very fun time, as always, and were far too spoiled while there. In other news, the house is taking shape!

It's Friday, and Lucy is happy to be back at swimming.

Walking along the floating mat like it's no big deal..

Lucy had a wardrobe malfunction, but prefers to hang out sans vetements anyway.

And for real this time, she celebrates a milestone today: 1 year and 7 months.

Coming for a Friday make-up lesson, since we'll be away this weekend...

... and enjoying the whole pool for himself.

Here we go: ready to hit the road!

New car, new view, new adventure.

Lucy's still awake, but probably not feeling her best.

Once arriving, Arlo wastes no time.

Lucy gets a welcome paw from Bella.

Lucky Arlo: Aa Top had a brand new car waiting for him.

And for Lucy, a singing, flashing steering wheel console. They both love it.

Sneaking up on Bella's bum.

Having fun with water!

Wardrobe change 100% necessary after this.

Eskimo kiss for Bella.

Eating dinner with Satang.

Lucy wants to peddle so badly, but doesn't quite have the movement yet.

Bath time is always fun, but especially in this big tub!

This is probably the only time Arlo gets his hair brushed.

The monkey who doesn't want to sleep.

Setting out the next morning...

... and trying all 7 seats on for size.

Visiting the city pillar...

... to secure good wishes and fortune for the new car.

And a quick stop at Lotus's, at Arlo's insistence. (The balls were on sale.)

Wasting no time.

Very pleased with his new grapple truck.

And lots of fun with bubbles.

Tong can't do anything wrong in Arlo's eyes.

Stopping by the Trat Provincial Botanical Garden.

There's a walking (and biking?) path around a small reservoir...

... and a (double) rainbow.

Someone gave us a bucket of fish food that they got bored of. The kids were happy to finish it up.

Arlo posing with his long-lost pet horse.

If she can't stay on a stationary fiberglass horse, I worry how it would go with a real one.

First time driving the new car! (And so focused, didn't even realize this photo was taken!)

Oh no, is it time to head back to Bangkok already?

Last hug for Bella.

Group photo; see you again in December.

The highlight of any trip to Trat for Arlo: the Shell station on the way home.

Lucy's looking real annoyed that someone jumped into her racecar.

Riding a hippo.

A natural in a tuk-tuk.

Got home with enough time to check out the new house.

Most of the rooms have been painted now.

The bathroom glass has been installed, although in Arlo's bathroom, in the wrong place!

The wood on top of the new safety wall on the 4th floor has been applied.

The office is coming together.

They really enjoyed playing tag in the guest room.

The guest bathroom (the new one) is looking really good.

The master bedroom gets the afternoon sun.

Glass - and sliding door - have been installed in the master bathroom.

The kitchen is shaping up really nicely.

This corner is where the washer & dryer will go.

The cutest clown fish (and clown of any sort) in Bangkok.

Freshly-cut pomelo peel hat.

What a cutie inside this blanket.

A neighbor brought over some beautiful halloween cookies (that she made) for the kids. Gone in 60 seconds, as they say.

Bangkok Week 799

October 19, 2023

We reach the end of the 700s! Arlo’s school is on mid-term break this week, and unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you look at it) he’s also feeling pretty under-the-weather. But Lucy is in top form, and ready to enjoy the week at home with her brother.

Happy Holiday Friday!

No photos of excited Lucy's lesson today, because Dad and Arlo are shopping.

Excited to eat the enoki mushrooms that he picked out at the store.

Afternoon arts & crafts.

Late-afternoon walk.

What a one-in-a-million coincidence... Lucy's leftover pasta fell onto the plate just like this!

Someone wanted to wear Mum's old bathing suit to bed.

Two climbing monkeys up on the forbidden chair.

At least it yielded some cute photos.

Someone turns a month older today, and is really into making birds with his hands.

So Lucy had to try, too.

Someone's all ready for her swimming lesson.

Dad's here to drop her off...

... and then check on the red car.

Someone's all grown up, and doesn't need Mum's help drinking her milk anymore!

Showing off his new bathing suit.

No room left in the bed for Lucy!

Someone's starting to feel unwell.

Lucy kindly went for a 45-minute walk to keep from waking up her brother.

Practicing her modeling poses.

Arlo's contemplating being a swimmer for halloween.

Lucy asked to play in the shower this morning.

Face time with Granny and Grandpa. In Japan now!

Have you ever seen such enthusiasm for ice cream?

Now that's more like it.

Check out this classic car, parked in front of the donut shop. Believe it was a Bentley.

Lucy's fresh new bangs. She can't believe it.

When the camera's in selfie mode, she knows how to ham it up!

The new bangs the next day.

You'd think Lucy's another month older today too... but no. She just wanted her photo taken in front of the tree.

Looking at an ice cream sprinkle under the magnifying glass.

Someone's looking a bit droopy.

The pomelo is taller than Arlo now!

Everyone playing house.

Lucy is practicing for body-surfing.

This is some very serious popcycle eating.

Peacefully reading a book together.

The next morning, picking up where we left off.

What it would look like if Arlo and Lucy were the same height.

Eating a scrumptious bowl of ice.

Ice cream for dessert: a story in 4 parts.

Arlo's reward for a good week off: a new car.

It's a classic BMW convertible (from Dollarama).

Lucy is one-upping herself, and enjoying a bowl of spicy soup for lunch.

Quick house update: the railings are white now.

The walls and door frames are being painted.

The wood has been added to the new banister on the top floor.

The kitchen cabinetry is going in. Here's where the washer & dryer will go.

Arlo, with a car washing sponge in his pants.

Good night, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 798

October 12, 2023

Lucy’s battling another cold this week (but thankfully, with no fever whatsoever). Arlo celebrates his friend Sally’s 4th birthday; we all enjoy a morning at the park; and Arlo, Lucy and Dad spoil Mum for her birthday in more ways than one 🍩🎂. Thank you, everyone!

It's a drizzly Friday morning.

Lucy's having fun with their new target-throwing game.

Last day of school for the week...

...and then off on a special adventure with Dad!

To Dasa Book!

Coming home by BTS+Taxi combo.

Annual family photos for Mum's visa.

This picture is not half bad!

Lucy monster!

Lucy's been working on her arm strength; this is why she's so good at climbing.

Yup, very soon there will be no room left in the bed for Lucy herself.

Lucy's feeling under-the-weather, so she's staying home today...

... while Arlo & Mum head to Sally's birthday party.

Their condo has some fun, old-school playground equipment on the ground floor.

Sally chose the theme: Unicorn Tea Party!

The kids decorated their own mini-cupcakes...

... and drank giant cups of tea (pink lemonade).

Playing some dancing games.

Trying to get a photo line-up.

Photo courtesy of Arlo.

Happy 4th birthday, Sally!

Meanwhile, Lucy and Dad are finding ways to entertain themselves.

Lucy couldn't make it to the party, but Sally kindly sent a goody bag home for her anyway.

It was a busy day for Arlo: right home from the party, and a prompt turn-around to swimming.

Working on his dives.

They've refinished the roof at the new house.

And the glass panels along the stairs are done.

And the floors have been polished, just need to wait for them to set.

Checking out the land rover parked in front of the donut shop.

Back at Benjasiri Park on Sunday morning: they're getting ready for IKEA to open on December 1st!

Watching a basketball game.

Lucy has figured out how to swing on her own, on the big kids' swings!

She kept going until I stopped her.

Milk break!

Escorting his sister back to the picnic area.

And a late-afternoon shopping trip to Tops.

4.5-lb bags of Kirkland chocolate chips on sale (and later, reduced even further).

Waiting patiently outside while Dad and Arlo pay.

Watching dog videos on youtube, while having her diaper changed. It's the only way!

Face full of diaper cream, thanks to someone.

What a nice birthday surprise! Tims for breakfast!

Someone couldn't wait to dive right in.

A great way to start the day, as far as Arlo is concerned.

Talking to Granny & Grandpa.

Looking through my beautiful birthday present: a customized wall calendar with a roundup of the best photos from the past 12 months.

Thank you, Arlo, Lucy & Dad!

Arlo's school week is off to a good start, on the new swing.

In case you're wondering, that's the donut receipt that he's wearing still.

Not just donuts, but a blizzard cake too! Today really is my lucky day!

Correction: it's Lucy's lucky day.

Lucy really likes the color-changing lamp in Arlo's room.

The next morning, getting an up-close look at the photos in the birthday calendar.

Scrutinizing every photo.

At long last, getting our permanent plate! No longer a new car.

Lucy, attempting to clip her own fingernails.

Proudly showing off the collar he made for Clifford from his Chirp Magazine.

It's a stormy Wednesxay morning, so Arlo's heading in by car!

Looks like someone's got a pimple on his eyelid.

Jumping high at school!

Flips for Lucy.

And all the faces. Good night, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 797

October 5, 2023

Happy October!! 🎃🍂 Everyone is relatively healthy this week, what a nice break. Arlo goes ice skating to use up the last of the vouchers we bought over the summer; Lucy goes for her 18-month check-up (and vaccines…), and Khlong Ekkamai 12 makes its return!

Just hangin' - it's Friday!

Lucy's favorite day of the week.

Lucy really enjoyed herself today, and had made a noticeable improvement in her kicking.

Special treat while walking (not biking) home from school.

Someone emulates her brother in every way.

Surprise!

Saturday make-up lesson for Lucy - last one, and then we'll be settled!

And normal Saturday swimming lesson for Arlo.

Taking Baby for a walk.

Baby's buckled in nice and tight, too.

Garlic knot for breakfast - delish!

Lychee popsicles - the best!

(Lucy agrees.)

Uh oh; I smell trouble!

Back at the rink for a Sunday morning treat; we have vouchers to use before the end of the week.

With the help of Penguin #1 this time.

Resting right next to a hockey lesson. Watch your back, Arlo!

Heading straight down the middle!

Enjoying a garlic knot and ice resurfacing show.

Visiting the new house. Does this little car look familiar?

The new bench outside the front door.

Show installed in the guest bathroom.

Outdoor light in Arlo's balcony.

Down light in the stairs installed.

In fact, all the down lights are in now!

Also in: the new sliding glass doors that separate the office and the guest room.

Too bad the bed is on the wrong side!

The back is ready for the new floor to be laid.

They've patched up the wall where the super heavy art piece used to be.

Enjoying the swing set before heading home.

Well, Lucy's made herself at home quite quickly.

Someone really wants to sleep with Arlo's Chompy tonight.

Not just with, but ON.

Monday playgroup for Lucy.

Spying on the end of Arlo's Ninja class.

Very excited to show off what he learned at Ninja.

There's a fun new swing at school.

It's time for Lucy's 18-month check-up and vaccines.

Thankfully, not too fussed by all the weights and measures today.

So many great tree forks at school.

Checking out the damage after a very heavy late-afternoon downpour.

Uh oh! Looks like Khlong Ekkamai is back.

Eating dinner together.

Heading off to school bright and early Wednesday morning, because Mum & Dad have an update meeting with Teacher Kamila.

Showing off his new skills.

The lime plant is doing really well right now. But still no sign of limes.

Taking a tuk-tuk home with Dad at the end of the day.

Door-to-door service!

Taking inventory of everything in the cupboard.

New dress from the North.

Lucy has figured out that toilets are for sitting.

Good night, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 796

September 28, 2023

Arlo and Lucy are excited because Puu is here for a short visit. We enjoy a nice morning cycle at Rot Fai Park (and then get stuck in a torrential downpour + flooded streets on the way home … weather which continued all week, btw). Mum finally visits her new office. And Arlo visits the barber!

After an illness-driven hiatus, we're back at swimming.

Lucy is really attached to Baby these days!

Arlo was really excited by his Elephant and Piggie library book. We read it once right here under the tree before heading home.

And after a long wait, Puu is back from the eye doctor. Arlo especially (and Lucy eventually) is thrilled to see him!

Puu is still here the next morning.

Arlo wanted to eat rice porridge, just like Puu.

With the grandkids.

We can comfortably all ride to the bus terminal now.

The 3rd row's not too shabby at all!

Waiting patiently at the bus terminal. (Actually, the wait wasn't very long at all.)

Bye bye, Puu!

Lucy and Mum went to swimming (yet another make-up)...

...while Dad and Arlo went grocery shopping.

An interesting place to play, Lucy.

Arlo enjoys helping Dad chop the vegetables now. Unfortunately, he also chopped his finger.

Sunday morning bike outing at Rot Fai park; it's been a few months since we were last here.

Over the wooden bridge.

Uh oh! Lucy's riding with Dad, now.

Here comes Arlo from the rear, overtaking the pack for the lead!

Stopping at the butterfly house.

Quite a few butterflies out today, which was nice.

This flower will eat you! Nom nom.

Carrying on.

Arlo showing Lucy the way to the playground.

Arlo was more interested in the exercise equipment.

Even the leg roller / massager.

Lucy found the ultimate swing!

Everyone could've stayed longer, but for a massive rain storm headed our way! Run!

Some laughs back at home.

And our Sunday ritual: checking on the house. They've taken down that heavy art piece!

And they've raised the hand rails.

The shower fixtures are in...

... as is the bath tub.

Checking out the railings of his bunkbed. Hope all the pieces are still here!

They're working on the back as well.

Lucy, soon there really won't be any room for you left in your bed!

Late afternoon walk.

A conundrum! It's pick-up time after school, and it's pouring buckets. Dad has the car. I guess we'll walk!

Arlo was a good sport.

Boo!

Getting more and more comfortable on the monkey bars with each day.

Eye see you!

Enjoying a mini-mooncake.

Taking the Donki shuttle to the BTS, into the office. The new office!

View south, over the residences of the American Ambassador and the Dutch Ambassador.

View south-east, of All Seasons' Place.

View of ONE BANGKOK, the giant development on the site fo the former Lumpini Night Bazaar.

View east, of Park Ventures Ecoplex, the north-south expressway, and Sukhumvit and beyond.

Breakfast with Gerald and Piggie.

Morning ride on the horse.

Another playgroup for Lucy.

Spying on Arlo's football class.

(He looks thrilled!)

And time for a much-needed trim.

Before and after. It's a long cut.

Bangkok Week 795

September 21, 2023

Lucy turns 1 1/2 this week - where has the time gone!? Lucy, Arlo, and Dad are still battling a cold; but Arlo’s well enough to go to school and swimming. The house is coming along; they’re definitely at the point of “rebuilding” now. We visit the farm for the first time in months — fun for everyone! Oh, and our fallen cactus has bounced back surprisingly well! 🌵

Off to school - last day of the week!

Taking on his new 120+ piece puzzles.

Helping herself to rice for dinner, direct from the source.

It's not only Arlo who's into taking photos with my phone now.

Lucy is very playful with the cute girl in the mirror.

Waiting patiently while Dad & Arlo finish the grocery shopping.

K. Wan is training Arlo well!

There was no swimming for sick Lucy this week, but Arlo was well enough to go.

He seems to have fallen behind a bit while away for 3 weeks. Gotta get back into the game!

Lucy's friends help raise her mood after nap..

Someone is now as interested in nature as her brother.

Can't quite bike yet, but getting comfortable on the scooter!

Photographer Arlo, practicing his portrait work.

Just hanging out on Sunday morning. Better take it easy today and make sure everyone's feeling better for the week ahead.

We went back to Boonthavorn (our go-to construction store) and they were having a giant kitchen extravaganza. Hundreds and hundreds of balloons!

Standard Sunday swing-by at the new house. They've removed the railings (watch out!) to upgrade them (literally).

The new wood has been laid in Arlo & Lucy's rooms, and now it needs to sit for a few weeks before they can sand and finish it.

The new wall at the top of the 4th floor, which will be made to match the stair banister.

The master bathroom is coming together: the stone around the tub has been cut, and the countertop laid.

The shelves are in in the shower, too.

Oh! The scaffolding is gone! I knew it looked emptier.

And they've started to work on the back, too, to check out the water tank and redo the floors.

One of these things is not like the others!

Late Sunday visit to the farm! It's been ages since we were last here.

Lucy's old enough and has enough stamina now that we need neither the carrier nor the stroller.

Special treat: feeding the fish! (And ducks. But mostly fish, because they're really fast!)

The okra are doing really well!

And Arlo's a pro at finding grasses and plants that the goat and sheep love.

Night night, Lucy.

Someone insisted on sleeping with her headphones on.

Fresh buttered english muffin for brekkie.

Someone turns 1 1/2 years old today! Where's the time gone?

Getting more comfortable with the various playground equipment at school.

And Lucy's well enough now to head back to playgroup!

Green grapes! He's been asking for some for ages. So excited to finally have some, he barged into the office to show me.

Bike time!

Even Lucy gets to ride.

In case you were wondering what happened to the cactus that snapped in half 30 min before we left for Canada...

... it subsequently broke again... and the two short pieces have miraculously just continued growing...

... while the tall piece is still alive, too.

Lucy. Is there any room for YOU in your bed?

She knows what toilets are for! Good night and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 794

September 14, 2023

We’re settling into our new routine! Everyone’s back to the swimming pool; Arlo’s figured out the new school; we all love the new car; and Lucy loves the girl in the mirror.

Oh, and I nearly forgot! Arlo, our not-so-little boy, turns 4 this week! Happy birthday, Arlo! 🎈🧁🥳

It's Friday!

Yay!

And it's our first time driving the new car *out* of the driveway. Hold your breath!

A nice, spacious ride to swimming today!

Lucy has a private class!

Portrait by Arlo.

Dad's special padding... just in case.

Arlo's first trip in the new car.

He approves!

The 3rd Emporium building on the west side of the park is coming up quickly!

A great advertisement for Foremost.

A make-up lesson for Lucy... and it's another private class!

Sunday car trip...

... to Boonthavorn, the building materials and appliance store.

Colorful toilets; Arlo wonders why we didn't pick these.

And then stopping by the house to drop off our purchases. The cement has been poured on the floors in Arlo & Lucy's room. Next up: the wood.

The marble countertops have been installed in the bathrooms (which are now also storing the bedroom furniture).

Lucy's bathroom.

Lucy's floor has been poured, too.

The ceilings have been finished.

Guest bathroom countertop.

Finished ceilings.

Marble in the master bathroom.

More finished ceilings.

And tiles going in on the ground floor.

Arlo's chopping plastic fruit, while Lucy works on a real apple.

After 3 weeks of no riding, both tires on Arlo's bike are flat!

Using is whole body to inflate the tires.

Back to school Monday!

Thanks to our neighbor, the red Jazz has a safe parking spot for a while.

Happy 4th birthday, Arlo!

Speaking of cupcakes, these are for his class.

Was someone embarrassed?

Insisting on 4 candles, not just one!

Blowing out the candles, all on his own.

And for 2 minutes, all was quiet in the classroom.

The fancy cake waiting back at home.

Lucy doesn't know what's going on, but she's excited!

Happy 4th birthday, big boy Arlo!

(Arlo only ate the "Happy Birthday" sign, and a tractor. Not a bite of the cake itself.)

Lucy, on the other hand...

... devoured a piece single-handedly.

What's this, Arlo?

Your own camera!?

Touring the neighborhood, taking photos.

And saying good-night to the oh-so-cute girl in the mirror who sleeps next to Lucy. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 793

September 7, 2023

It’s a short week, since we’ve just gotten home from Toronto! The house progress is coming along nicely. Arlo starts school this week - at the new campus for older kids - and 2 weeks into the school year. Lucy finds a new playgroup within walking distance. And, notably, we go pick up the new car!

A few hours after getting home. Needless to say, we were tired. Arlo snapped this photo using my phone.

Restocking the kitchen.

And checking in on the house. The tiles are done in Arlo's bathroom.

And the new ceilings are all closed up. (Lucy's room.)

Lucy's bathroom.

The new bathroom on the 3rd floor (the guest bathroom).

Master bathroom.

Ceilings on the 2nd floor.

Backyard storage.

It waited until we were home to bloom!

Monday morning: up bright and early. (I mean, dark and early.)

Heading off for his first day of school!

He seems to have settled right into the new campus.

Reading the Chirp Magazine issue about dogs. Lucy loves it!

Heading back for his second day of school.

Visiting a new community mall on Ekkamai 6...

... for a playgroup for Lucy.

Ba Nu from two doors down brought over a home-made pizza for the kids.

Sleeping Jazz, sleeping Arlo!

Lucky Arlo and Lucy! Ice cream from P'Noi.

A sock morning for everyone.

Showing how they built the Concorde.

Neat treehouse at school.

The time has come! To bite the bullet and pick up the new car.

The bow! We got to take photos with the bow!

The bow is as exciting as the new car.

Very, very cautiously driving it home.

It fits in the driveway. And more importantly, Arlo approves!

See you next week; Arlo will be here checking out the car.

Canada Week 3

September 2, 2023

Oh no, is it our last week in Toronto already? It’s a week of skidsteers, animals (at the farm and at the zoo), great weather, and family.

And then, it’s a 24-hour journey ✈️ back to Bangkok via Taipei. But you know, it’s really not all that bad. Definitely easier than the way over!

Despite the late night, Lucy is up and ready to continue the party the next morning!

Saying goodbye to Uncle Chad before he heads back to Guelph.

We're here for Riverdale Farm, but oh, what a nice skidsteer we see on the way.

And my, what giant sunflowers!

Aha! Now we know where sunflower seeds come from!

The famed piggies.

The splash pool in Riverdale Park was too tempting for Arlo, so in he went...

... followed by Lucy, and therefore Mum, too.

This water is icy! Not for the faint-hearted!

Nothing like a frozen popsicle to warm you up after splashing in ice water.

Late afternoon activity: checking out the road resurfacing equipment on Palmerston just south of bloor.

Stopping on the way home to take Grandpa through the maze.

Arlo's been itching to eat his ring pop (from the wedding) and finally, the time has come!

Enjoying the Wave Deck down on the waterfront.

Determination will get Arlo through most obstacles.

Mum's colleague Julie shows Arlo the very cool Fire Rescue boat.

Having a little fun at the expense of the (novel, new) Canada Geese.

The HTO Beach was nice, but HOT HOT HOT!

Arlo's first ever attempt at drinking from a water fountain (which was stuck on...)

Arlo was given a very thoughtful gift from Kurt & Dale, and is working hard on putting it together.

A veterinary truck!

If the croc fits, wear it!

Our zoo day is off to a great start, with a skidsteer zipping around Granny & Grandpa's block.

First up at the zoo: a carousel!

The jellyfish were impressive.

This komodo dragon was pretty exciting, too.

A beautiful female tiger.

These camels seemed totally indifferent to being there.

A very cute polar bear, showing off his backflips.

Finally with the lollipop he'd been eyeing all day.

The moment he's been waiting for! Standing with the zebras (albeit far away), wearing his zebra shirt!

Stones, or rhinos?

The 8th orangutan.

Last stop: the giant splashpad.

Wet and exhausted: it's time to head home!

Coming out the next morning to check out the construction down the street.

You certainly can't get this close to a skidsteer in Bangkok!

Back to Playground #3 with Auntie Julia this time.

We ain't leaving this country until I've figured out this board!

Everyone loves the swings.

Dinner with the Toronto Tomczaks (ex- the bride & groom). Delish Chinese, too.

Encore of the YMCA from the wedding.

Grandpa's got his dancing shoes on now.

What's this!? Another tot in a pot?

Last breakfast in Toronto! (Aww, already!?) Get your fill of grapefruit, Arlo!

This was a cute photo op at the time, but it turned out to be the last time that hat was at home on Euclid!

It's a lovely day to visit The Beaches.

Collecting the smooth, smooth stones.

And skipping stones with Dad.

Lunch time for Arlo and Lucy, in the beautiful Kew Gardens.

This photo is of significance: it's the last photo we have of the red hat! (Bottom LH corner.)

A very important warning, at the fries stand.

You may worry that so much choice is overwhelming! But no, Arlo hones in on the blue!

Laser focused.

Lucy, meanwhile, is left to share with the adults today.

But that doesn't stop her!

As you'd expect! Thank you for the "lunch", Grandpa!

Just relaxing on the veranda, enjoying the last afternoon of Toronto summer.

The Last Supper 😭

A midnight farewell at Pearson. Thank you for everything, Grann & Grandpa. And see you at Christmas! But now, wish us luck!

The nice thing about flying out at 2am is that the airport is dead empty.

Settling into our Premium Economy seats. Ain't to shabby!

Wasting no time working on the giant red ant that the airline gave him.

Getting a few Zzz's at least.

The cookies that got us through the trip!

We made it to Tai-one!

Having a grand time in the lounge changing room. Wardrobe change for everyone!

Strawberry yoghurt...

... followed by ice cream, for breakfast for Arlo!

And Lucy enjoyed her ice.

What's this train doing in the terminal building!?

We found a quiet, quiet corner of the terminal (thanks to construction, so the gates are closed). Great place for plane-spotting (and car-spotting).

And burning energy walking against the moving sidewalk.

Nice nice, water bufffalo!

Okay team, last leg -- we can do this!

Arlo got a new set of magnets. Don't lose any this time, Arlo!

There's no place Lucy can't climb!

We made it, and so did our things! Phew!

Canada Week 2

August 26, 2023

Everyone enjoys another fun-filled, action-packed week in Muskoka and Toronto! Brave Arlo takes a (brief) dip in the lake; we stop at some very nifty marine attractions on the drive back down; visit an unthinkable number of new playgrounds once back in the city; visit the dinosaurs at the ROM; and all get ready for Auntie Jasmine & Uncle Josh’s big day!

The wedding is beautiful and every detail thought-through. The bride is gorgeous and the groom is handsome. (And the matching Ring Bear 🐻 is pretty cute, too. Everyone has lots of fun, and Arlo gets to dance into the night, as he’s been looking forward to doing. What a great excuse to come to Toronto!

⚠️ A technical note: after 250 images, the photos loop back to the start; but there are more than 250 photos! So when you hit the end of the first 250 and loop back, please press ‘escape’ and scroll down to the 2nd set of images. ⚠️

Up early again at the cottage, and showing off the butterfly he found.

Having fun with Granny's hat collection.

Mooched yoghurt is the most delicious kind of yoghurt!

The time has come for brave Arlo to go for a swim in the water.

Checking the temperature with Grandba. Brr!

In he goes!

And out he comes, just like that!

An Arlo burrito! Have to give the boy lots of credit! He's the only one who dared go in!

Next up: helping grandpa wash the Subaru Forester.

Someone worked up an appetite while washing the car!

Gone!

Going for a walk all the way to the end of McKay Trail Pvt.

Lucy's turn for a walk.

Hanging out again with Great Aunt Chris.

Delicious ice!

Bye Aunt Chris. Hope to see you again soon! Thank you for the gift!

Last morning at the cottage.

Last photos down by the bay. I mean, lake.

The flowers that Arlo picked and arranged. A photo before leaving them at the cottage.

Time to hit the road: Toronto-bound!

But first, a stop in Port Carling to check out the lock...

... and another stop at Port Severn to check out the Big Chute!

Woah! Here it comes!

Canada Week 1

August 19, 2023

At long last, and after much anticipation, we’re off to Canada! This album is from our first week there (Sunday - Saturday).

After a rather long journey over, we hit the ground running! Two playgrounds, Centre Island, and a visit to the cottage in Bracebridge! Everything is as fun and novel as we’d hoped it would be!

And here we go, Toronto-bound! We've made it to the airport, wedding gift and all!

Just passed Immigration: a small feat.

Lucy's enjoying her first visit to the EVA Lounge.

And Arlo's enjoying the ice cream we'd been hyping up all week.

"There's our EVA!" as Arlo would say.

I guess this is it: it's game time.

Lucy is in position!

At cruising altitude, and enjoying her dessert (which was, oddly, brought at the same time as the appetizer... which pretty much wiped out all hope of her eating anything else!)

Lucy has found a comfortable place to sit. Interestingly, the cabin crew were fine with this.

Why did we pay for 3 seats? We didn't need 3 seats...

Oh my! Made it to Taipei.

Someone entertained herself during the layover with the automatic sink in the lounge changing room.

Here we go again: this time for real!

Playing with the magnetic airport scene; have to give EVA credit for still giving out toys to the kids on board.

Someone didn't need his own headphones after all.

Discovering Angry Birds (i.e. his first video game)... he improved quite a bit during the flight.

Dinner and a movie. (More like, a movie.)

Lucy's lookout: where she could high-five everyone who walked by.

Time to try and catch some Zzz's.

Really starting to think we didn't need to buy all those tickets!

My last-ditch effort to entertain: Q-tips and a spice shaker.

OMG, we made it! Hi Granny, hi Grandpa!

It's a cozy ride back to Euclid, but nothing we can't handle now!

Just hanging around; nevermind it's pushing 1 AM.

Time to see if we can get some sleep.

Our first breakfast!

Lucy's trying one of the cream-filled wheels that we brought from Taipei.

Everything's a toy; nothing's off limits!

Inspecting his first pine cone.

The first of many playgrounds.

A ladybug! A real live ladybug!

Hiding among the maple leaves.

Grandpa's infamous Benz!

Arlo can't wait to sit inside.

A special trip to the library with Granny. Can we stay awake?

Enjoying a tasty, but really rather messy ice cream sandwich.

Arlo takes flight.

She's done well. But asleep just after 6pm. Wish us luck in the morning.

Up before dawn, and enjoying a fresh strawberry. (How novel.)

And now cherries.

And blueberries, too!?!

Blueberry teeth!

Heading down to Christie Pitts -- for playground #2.

Lucy's first time on a swing. She loved it!

So many new things for Arlo to climb.

Interesting! A 3-way see saw.

Brave Granny is putting her lunch on the line to keep her Granddaughter safe.

The toy that shaped this visit -- the helicopters!

Another of the novel fascinations -- dandelions!

Lucy can easily wash her hands at Granny's fancy sink.

Arlo found an actual-scale version of exactly the Mazda CX-5 he was given on the airplane.

Someone brought a snail home, and put it proudly on Granny's plant.

Look at the wheel on this bucket truck! It's taller than Arlo!

Lucy's first time on a ferry; this one, to Centre Island!

Great day; great view!

Hmm. What's this giant tulip about?

It's a chair?

Diverting briefly to see the unbeatable views.

What a skyline!

And now, on to business. Arlo's got his stamp.

Jumping into the Centreville Fire Department's most important engine.

A perfect ride for Arlo! How many times did he ride it?

These two are equally entertained.

Arlo's first log flume.

Lucy had a little splash around in the water area... too bad we didn't bring bathing suits!

And Grandpa took Arlo for a spin on the antique cars... I think this is the same model that Grandpa learned to drive on.

Next, taking a spin on the Ford touring cars.

Underwhelmed by the boats, but a good sport.

Arlo was initially hesitant to go on this frog hopper, but eventually loved it!

After waiting for 20 min, it's our turn on the roller coaster!

We got the full last-row experience!

Let's not forget about the Centreville farm!

Sitting on this tractor is as fun as the other cars.

Lunch break.

Finally riding the cable car.

Is Arlo falling asleep back there?

One last spin on the cars before it's time to head back.

High five!

Oh no, too tired to walk!

Pooped again!

Another pre-dawn breakfast; this time, the freshly-baked muffins from Marsha.

Lucy hasn't learned yet that, if you're going to go rummaging through other people's things, you really shouldn't leave a trail.

Arlo convinced Granny to watch the 1988 Madeline video with him.

And then we discovered a great thing about Thursday mornings...

The garbage pick-up!

We're off to the cottage!

Arlo's asleep before we've even turned off Bathurst!

We made it!

This guy likes nature.

It's a beautiful first day at the cottage. Cool, but blue.

Quick Grandpa, catch!

Arlo's enlisted Grandpa in building an elaborate tree fork for Chompy.

Driving with the window open -- novel!

Auntie Julie popped over, and now Arlo's enlisted her in the stick-gathering as well.

Rainy morning, hoping it'll stop.

There's a break in the storm; and a scramble to get the canoe ready!

Lucy, you're a natural.

Arlo's first canoe ride!

It ended in rain! But not before we did one loop around the island.

Lucky Arlo! Granny brought a sticker activity book just for rainy days like these.

Lucy's soaking up the rays.

Whoo! Taking a spin in the Benz!

And riding in the much-anticipated speedboat!

Beading with Auntie Julia, at her cottage.

Lucys' new BFF, Macky!

Having a very serious negotiation over a chocolate chip cookie.

What's this!? Another ride in the speedboat?

Going down early the next day to check out the still morning water.

"Fishing."

Just in time to see the mist.

Great game of tag. Arlo, in particular, is really enjoying the outdoors.

TECHNICAL NOTE! There are more photos. Please press escape, and then scroll down!

Brave Grandpa is taking Arlo out for a canoe ride all by himself! Will we see these two generations of men ever again?

Cousin Macky, we meet again!

Lucy's having a chat with Great Aunt Chris.

Frozen juice - the best invention!

Giant hugs for the fierce Golden Bear!

And we close this first fun-filled week with ice cream in an edible bowl. To be continued!

Bangkok Week 790

August 13, 2023

Our last 3 days in Bangkok before leaving for our big trip! We get to meet our new car (but leave it under the watch of the dealership until we get back.) Arlo and Lucy each have 2 more swimming lessons (last ones for a while!). And we bid farewell to friends Alba, Ines, and their parents, whom we’ve known since Arlo was only a month old.

And uh oh! Someone’s had a major accident…! 🌵

Oh my! Our new car has arrived at the dealership, months earlier than planned!

We're checking it out today (and finalizing the payment), but we'll leave it here until we're back from Canada.

Arlo's pretty psyched about the sun roof!

Lucy's getting her jumps in!

And this shark is practicing his diving too.

It's Thai Mother's Day! Thank you for the pastry breakfast!

A Mother's Day greeting for Yaa...

... and using this opportunity to draw on the iPad!

All natural, no fillers.

Dad is very strong and very talented.

Another make-up lesson (and her normal bathing suit is packed already, so here we are in blacks.)

And Arlo's last lesson until September, too.

A bitter-sweet dinner: saying farewell to Alba, Ines, and their parents.

Everyone's going to be much bigger next time we see them!

Measuring up for his monthly photo, despite only being the 13th.

Lucy wanted in on the tree action, too.

Uh oh! It's T-minus-30 minutes, and we discover a grave accident on the balcony!

Our poor cactus has suffered some serious damage. Better hurry and "fix" him before we head out to the airport.

Lucy's decided to use this waiting time to learn how to ride a two-wheeler.

Bangkok Week 789

August 10, 2023

! Trying something new, this week onward: selective photo captioning !

This is our last full week of Summer before our big trip. Arlo and Lucy each have 2 swimming lessons this week, in an attempt to clear our make-ups before we go. They also each get a fab new wardrobe, courtesy of Sally and Douglass. And we do one last skating session while school is still on holiday. Can’t believe it’s almost mid-August!