Bangkok Week 824

April 11, 2024

We’re entering the Songkran season! Arlo’s school is on a 2-week break now, and the heat is at its peak. How can we entertain ourselves while keeping cool? Let’s find out!

It's the last day of school for the term, and they're celebrating Songkran (a week early, but nevermind).

Pouring the water on the Phra.

Arlo really wanted Lucy to come to school as well, which was very sweet.

By now, Lucy is totally comfortable at school and can entertain herself.

Watching her big brother on the monkey bars. Lucy will be next!

And trying her hand at Som Tum.

After dropping Arlo off at school, Lucy retreats to the office to "work".

Last swimming lesson before the Songkran break.

Special treat for Arlo after the half-day at school: ice cream with friends!

The seaweed has taken over the fish tank, so it's time to take it out.

Stylish monkey in her Native shoes.

Someone can climb to the top of the monkey bars and hang (for a short while). She's her own liability.

Nice lighting at sunset.

Lucy demonstrates how to cool off.

Someone knows how to help herself to milk now.

Another "picnic" breakfast.

Arlo's been asking for weeks to go to Rot Fai park to bike, so here we are.

Lucy prefers to hold onto Mum's shirt, not the handlebars.

It's awfully hot today!

Stopping for a cold water and cold juice break.

Even Arlo thinks it's too hot to bike!

Cooling off in the A/C'd entrance to the butterfly garden.

Looks like it's too hot even for the butterflies!

Time to head home! We'll need to save our biking for a slightly cooler time of year (or the late afternoon).

Arlo still has a swimming lesson in the afternoon...

... and then a visit from his friend Aya and her family in the evening!

We had lots of fun with the GoPro camera in the pool.

Arlo enjoyed swimming with Aya's older sister, Doreen.

Lucy easily touches the bottom of the big pool when she jumps in.

Where's Lucy?

And this is Arlo, mid-backward-summersault.

Everyone say, "Cheese Pizza!"

Playing "Memory". Arlo is finally getting the hang of it.

Uh oh! Where did all the kids go!?

Entertaining himself first thing in the morning.

Lucy's enjoying an egg for breakfast. A chocolate easter egg, that is.

An important message for Auntie Jasmine, whom we'll be seeing soon!

And a belated message for Granny.

Only trouble can happen when Arlo wields the hose like this.

Special trip to our favorite store on Rama 4!

Lucy had a blast, zipping around on a new balance bike. (She insisted on wearing the helmet.)

In this case, I think "big ball" is accurate.

This store is more entertaining than Harborland!

Special treat before heading home.

Trying out Dad's new purchase for the balcony.

Mum made brusselsprouts!

Dad with his two little monkeys.

It's never too early to wear Songkran shirts!

It's been exactly 1 year since we last came to Harborland...

... and so this family is back for our annual visit!

Lucy doesn't remember being here, so for her it was all new and uber-exciting!

The ball pits were a blast!

Going down the roller slide together.

Arlo was much braver and much more independent than a year ago.

Snack break!

Lucy adored all the balls.

And Arlo had his own ideas.

Arlo showed no hesitation when he scaled this giant volcano...

... and turned right around to slide back down again.

This air cannon was great entertainment.

Winding down with some quiet painting.

Lucy lasted for about 45 seconds...

... whereas Arlo actually sat and painted two cars.

The cactus was in full bloom, waiting for us at home.

Posing for portraits before nap time. (Procrastinating, I daresay.)

And finally tackling a task that's been long in the waiting...

... replanting all the baby cactuses!

Done for now! (But there are still 2 more adult cactuses' worth of babies that we've yet to tackle.

Arlo's latest purchase: sand timers!

Someone fell asleep on the guest bed, while waiting for Mum to finish her evening calls.

Taking inspiration from Princess Leia this morning.

New fish for our collection, courtesy of Larissa and her dad.

These will grow up to be beautiful metallic guppies.

Lucy's ice cream birthday cake is still providing dessert after dinner. Great value!

Waking up to watch the tennis lesson next door.

Sharing potato chips.

And biking into a beautiful sunset.

Bangkok Week 823

April 4, 2024

The summer weather is here, without a doubt. Highs of 38 all week, and the pool is warmer than bathwater. But we got a fun new pool toy, and Arlo got a cool new haircut! And we found the GoPro after all these years. Enjoy the heat!

Good morning, Bear! Have you seen Lucy?

Someone is very picky about her clothing choices these days.

Friday morning before school. Note this hair for later!

Lucy giving us her cool eyes.

Enjoying the photos of the other swim students.

Oh my. Someone is "working" really hard again.

The many faces of Lucy.

What a tease!

Someone's got his Songkran hair cut!

New hair, showing off the Easter Egg that he painted at school.

Arlo and Lucy's newest cactus!

So excited about the cactus that we do a special Friday night swim after dinner.

The bougainvillea are doing well right now.

Lucy's summer style.

We need to do the hat + helmet getup these days!

Back at ThaiWan cafe to enjoy the shade and the peacocks.

A Taiwanese non-tea drink.

These two were much more comfortable on the big swing this second visit.

How magnificent!

The colors really are fantastic.

Briefly (and carefully) exploring the treehouses.

Lucy and Dad were on a roll up there.

Home, and very pleased with her souvenir: a peacock feather.

Looks like someone wants to go swim.

Walking like a little boss.

Oh! Dad's in first today.

Happy Easter! Looks like the Easter Bunny came last night!

Arlo found all the eggs, but this one ate them all.

Low-key morning outing to Big C.

We couldn't leave Big C without some Songkran equipment.

This one is from last year, and it was too heavy for Arlo to lift. Lucy has the same problem this year.

Trying out his new equipment. This one is the perfect size.

Someone's taken to washing the dishes! Great initiative, Arlo!

Finding all the people!

The hose in the back burst again, so Arlo's helping Dad cut out the broken part.

We stumbled upon the good ol' GoPro!

Lots of bubbly fun in the pool.

Lucy was really into taking pictures, too.

Someone has no problem opening her eyes under water.

Arlo asked to eat a whole tomato for dinner. He ended up eating 1 1/2.

So someone else had to try, too.

Checking to see if the GoPro photos are any good anymore. Everyone is pretty amused.

Lucy is showing the face she was making underwater.

Playing hide-and-seek: somehow, after using this hiding spot every night, Dad has a really easy time finding us.

Cereal for Monday brekkie.

The purple daisy that Arlo planted at Bangkok Prep is doing well.

Excited to talk to Puu and Yaa.

Family portrait by Arlo.

Lucy came to drop off Arlo at school on Tuesday, on her way to the doctor.

Someone is still tall for her age!

Three vaccines later, Lucy heads straight to her Tuesday playgroup.

And Arlo had an exciting day at school: a firetruck came to visit!

And he was inspired: here are two fire trucks that Arlo drew after coming home.

On Wednesday, Lucy woke up to a tennis lesson outside her window.

Need to wear a serious sun hat when walking these days.

Enjoying an (unripe) star fruit from the tree by the pool

Monkey!

Arlo Monkey and Aya Monkey after school.

Oh my! Another cactus flower!

K. Wan has started coming on Wednesdays now, too.

Going for an evening walk. But Arlo hopped into Nancy's car instead.

Morning entertainment.

Mum's at the office today, so Lucy took over her home desk.

Enjoying a freshly-baked croissant for dinner! Yum!

Bangkok Week 822

March 28, 2024

It’s a low-key week, staying local and gearing up for Songkran!

Good morning! Here are Lucy and bear, waking up from the last good night sleep they'll each have, since they'll be sleeping in the same bed from now on!

Lucy still loves going to swimming by "big bike".

There's been a photo context at swimming. We forgot to submit photos, but Lucy loves to look at them.

"Lucy working."

Arlo had a make-up lesson late on Friday afternoon.

My wide-eyed baby doll.

Lucy's birthday cake is still holding its appeal!

Bedtime is a whole family affair.

Uh oh, bear! Sleeing with Lucy now?

Nothing is more delicious for brekkie than a freshly boiled egg that you peel yourself!

It was awfully quiet upstairs... and then we found these two "having a picnic" right here.

Also for breakfast: Dad's cereal, stolen straight from his lap.

Breakfast time for the fish, as well.

Finally clothed, and ready to head out!

These days, the mornings at the playground are very hot and sunny!

Getting in some hoops. At least the basket ball is shaded!

Nap time with bear. Now, he has his own blanket, too.

Saturday afternoon swimming lessons...

... followed by a late Saturday-afternoon swim at the moo baan.

Night night, LucyAndBear.

Arlo is helping to slice his own bread for breakfast. Everyone stand back!

Another resort-style breakfast on the balcony.

Lucy is wondering if this straw is rather large for her milk box.

Drive-up fish tank.

We've come to K-Village to check out the farmer's market... but we arrived before many of the farmers.

The play ground is more fun than the market, anyway.

Lucy found a new friend, although he was rather flat.

She was also really fascinated by the guitar (and ukulele) store.

The big purchase from K-Village was new water guns. Lucy can't believe her eyes!

What a cozy way to sleep.

Lucy's french braid - her latest hair style.

Lucy's birthday card from Granny and Grandpa arrived!

Arlo had a 4.5-year check up and vaccine schedule. But he first accompanied Mum & Dad for their flu shots.

We got a new Indian snack... which apparently reminds Lucy of cat food.

Lucy is very inclusive, ensuring that Bear doesn't go hungry either.

"Lucy working", again.

Ice cream at the farm...

... which is gone! Bye bye, farm; hello new condo!

Pushing Nancy's stroller. Good thing she's nowhere in sight.

And trying her hands at the wheel of Nancy and Thomas's car.

Cuties on the spinning chair; Lucy has discovered that it can spin spin spin!

Drawing a family portrait, and a birthday card for Lucy.

She wanted to take a tree photo that night...

... and then she wanted Koala to take a tree photo the next morning.

Last football class for the term!

And it's been a flowerful day for the cactuses!

One big yellow bloom...

... and one purple one.

Bangkok Week 821

March 21, 2024

Arlo wraps up Math Week at school; we have a busy weekend around town; and then our little Monkey Lucy turns 2 years old this week! Happy birthday, Lucy!

Welcome back! Lucy is her own boss now, can you tell?

Arlo is getting excited and counting his coins, because there's going to be a big spending opportunity at school this morning!

The culmination of Math Week is the Annabel's Market!

Arlo's class was selling fresh waffles. 10 baht per waffle, plus 1 baht for each square that you fill with a topping.

Arlo kindly bought Mum an iced coffee from the coffee shop.

And then he bought himself some lemonade.

We thought about buying a brownie, but by this time, Arlo decided he'd like to save the rest of his money. Good instincts, Arlo!

Helping collect the money for his class's waffle stand.

This is how Lucy rides to swimming now that it's hot hot hot!

Sharing a chair.

Nice hair, Arlo! Or should I say, Toji-kun?

Lucy's still really into her jigsaw puzzles.

Special Saturday activity!

A visit to Bangkok Prep, for their annual Open House!

The Primary Campus facilities are brand new, and beautiful!

Everyone loved playing on the jungle gym and slide.

Checking out the Early Years classrooms.

And the Early Years playground -- much more Lucy's speed.

They had lots of activities -- including rock painting, which Lucy really took to!

A slide from the 4th floor to the 3rd floor of the Primary School building.

Planting some plants in a pot he (briefly) decorated.

Arlo's hands are full now, I guess we can head home. Nice school!

If that weren't enough, it's time for a swim lesson...

... and then even more swimming!

Spending the morning at the park. We haven't been in a while!

This one spent almost 30 minutes on this swing.

Milk break!

After finishing her chocolate milk, she then drank Dad's large soy milk!

If we can't swing, then at least we can see-saw!

We ran into Thomas and Nancy at the park. Here are the neighborhood climbers!

Back at school on Monday, Arlo's almost doing the full monkey bars!

Coming home to celebrate someone's birthday tomorrow!

Another bloom! Arlo brought it all the way up to the 3rd floor to show me!

All ready for someone's big day tomorrow!

Happy Birthday, Lucy!

Big birthday hug from P'Arlo.

Lucy can't believe the balloons!

And wow! Look at this bear!

And a cute soft cat from P'Noi and P'Natalie.

And the icing on the cake: the water table.

(We interrupt this birthday celebration for a photo of Arlo, taking a long branch to school.)

Wasting no time, despite the day-long rain storm.

I think she likes it!

Happy Birthday, to our little Monkey!

Arlo rushed home from school to play with the water table while Lucy still napped.

Ready for some cake!

Yum! Ice cream cake! The best kind of cake!

The birthday girl loved it!

And to round off the day, a special late-afternoon swim!

Where's Bear going to sleep tonight?

Watching his new owner do puzzles.

Stripping down to nothing the next morning to play with her water table.

Someone's feeling tired after soccer!

Lucy did get her own pair of crocs! And she loves them.

There's more cake where that came from!

Night night Lucy, and night night bear! See you next week!

Bangkok Week 820

March 14, 2024

Lucy and Arlo continue to enjoy Yaa’s visit. Mum has a brief stopover in Chicago, before finally returning home on Sunday morning! Poor Arlo misses half of Math Week at school due to a prolonged fever (from what, we may never know…) and we round off the week celebrating Arlo turning 4 1/2.

Back in Chicago, after 5 years and 2 children!

And missing the famed St Patrick's Day celebration by only a few days: soon, this river will be green!

The hotel provided a great view into my beloved Marina City towers!

Great view of the spiral parking lots on the first 19 floors of each tower.

Balconies.

It's a classic rainy day in Chicago - getting the whole experience!

Our Big Bird: finally heading back to Haneda!

Bonus! They have upgraded the interiors of their 777s since I last flew this route in Jan 2019!

My little cabin. It was nice and wide. Not the most comfortable when sitting, but provided a great sleep!

Back in Bangkok, Lucy enjoys her Friday...

... as does Arlo.

Saturday Special: P'Noi is here to help out one extra day.

Checking in on the fish.

Lucy's keeping a good eye on them.

Opposing swings...

... and a little bit of screen time to celebrate the weekend.

Dinner picnic!

And finally! Mum's home for Sunday breakfast!

Mum brought back color-changing cups. Fun!

But the best souvenir of all was a snack-sized bag of popcorn from Mum's office.

Fish still there?

Trying on all the masks.

New sidewalk chalk from the US (CVS, to be exact).

Arlo's getting really good with his drawings!

Cool as a cucumber, in Mum's sun glasses.

Playing with the new packing peanuts.

Lucy got a bathing suit from P'Larissa down the soi. Cute!

Poor Arlo! Starting the week with a visit to the doctor. He's been running a high fever since Friday.

Waiting patiently for the results of the nasal swab, under a natural sun shade.

Making sure those fish are still there.

Last dinner with Yaa, before she heads home.

Home with a fever for yet another day, the silver lining is that Arlo can accompany Yaa to the bus terminal.

Bye bye, Yaa!

Lucy still has her Tuesday playgroups.

Finally back at school on Wednesday, right in the middle of Math Week. Look at this great race course!

He made it!

During the day, he's mastered the crab walk section.

Lucky Arlo and Lucy: it's another picnic dinner!

Uh oh! Where's Lucy?

All eyes on the special prize.

Arlo's feet and hands are suddenly larger than life.

Uh oh, Lucy! Don't let your brother see you up there!

Another special Math Week surprise at school!

Find the math activities throughout the maze!

It's spa day for all the friends!

Hmm! I think it might be time for Lucy to get some crocs of her own.

Lucy's a really great helper. Here, helping Mum "work".

Playing with the fountain that dad got for the fish.

Speaking of helpers, Arlo's great at watering all the plants.

And ending the week on the 14th, which can only mean one thing: Arlo turns 4 1/2 today!

Notice anything different about the height tree?

Closing the week with a delicious cup of ice cream! See you next time!

Bangkok Week 819

March 7, 2024

We discover an amazing, hidden cafe just around the corner with its own little menagerie. The kids are thrilled to have Puu and Yaa come to visit! But then Mum sneaks off for a week, to Washington DC. But everyone is just fine!

Great form of entertainment!

Lucy's favorite part of swimming lessons now is getting to ride the "big bike".

This monkey has found lots of places to practice his gymnastics in the house.

Lucy's a danger to herself now! She can climb to the top of the monkey bars very quickly, very independently.

Checking out the tomatoes. Some are ripening, but they're quite tough.

Diligently keeping his plants alive.

Breakfast-sharing.

Special Saturday morning excursion, not too far from home...

... the unassuming ThaiWan cafe on Pridi 26.

Behind the small entry door is a giant property, with a treehouse, fish ponds, peacocks and peahens, and more.

Arlo's first time seeing a peacock in real life - up close. (He did see some at the High Park zoo...)

Exploring the treehouse.

Lucy enjoyed their strawberry drink very much.

Still working on that drink.

Up in another treehouse, taking in the view.

Bonus: they even have a giant tree swing.

Home again! Even the transport was fun!

Buying a pot for our lotus... straight from Ratchaburi province.

Arlo and Lucy were great helpers, transplanting the lotus and its water (and snails).

Then, Puu and Yaa arrived!

Arlo's a great tour guide.

Lucky Puu and Yaa also got to go watch Arlo swim.

And again, they watched swimming!

Special dinner with Puu and Yaa.

Arlo is excited to still see them both the next morning.

(Lucy, meanwhlie, has gotten herself into an unexplainable twist.)

Arlo has been looking forward to eating "jok" (congee) for breakfast with them. He's been talking about it all week!

Everyone enjoyed it!

Getting in some swings, before Puu has to go back to the bus terminal.

Bye bye, Puu!

Arlo went to drop Puu at the bus, and see him off.

Back at home, Sunday continues as ususal...

... Arlo's stacking skills are getting pretty good!

Another Sunday, another swim!

This pretty much sums up the chaos.

And it's a hungry monster after swimming!

They said my hide-and-seek spot was too obvious.

One final farewell photo with m'Lucy, and then Mum's off!

A normal Monday in Bangkok...

... but with a special guest at school.

The neighborhood management kept good on their promise, and chopped down all the trees around the pool. Well, on the bright side, we have a very clear view of who's in there now.

Lucy's at home at playgroup.

Special after-school ice cream treat for someone...

... with take-away for someone else.

Oh! Important addition to the lotuses! Fish, to eat the mosquito larvae!

The week's entertainment is here!

Checking in on the fish many times a day now.

And the Bangkok crowd complete their week with a visit from Uncle Simon.

Meanwhile, Mum has seen a beautiful sunrise over Tokyo Haneda airport...

.. and some nice landings, too.

Wore all the face masks possible during the flight.

And finally riding in one of the famed IAD 'Plane Mate' mobile lounges!

Made it! On the streets of an unseasonably warm Washington DC!

The beautiful Waldorf Astoria hotel, in the old post office building.

The Treasury Building.

The beautiful blue sky that came out just to greet me!

A white house, in the middle of a giant lawn.

That same white house, from up close this time.

With my local tour guide, who kindly took me around during lunch.

The really quite remarkable view from our office.

Another view from our office.

A different morning, different weather.

Hmm. I thought that the Washington Monument was supposed to be back there!

Last morning, and a long walk before heading into the office. The Federal Triangle.

Can I hand in my forms on the spot?

Daffodils are starting to emerge!

Washington Monument up close.

WWII Memorial.

Beautiful gardens: the city is very green!

The Reflecting Pool had not yet been filled with water for the season: I think this is residual rain water. But the ducks were happy nevertheless.

And the pool was still reflecting!

Lincoln Memoral: I knew I'd seen you somewhere before!

Reagan Airport is awfully close to downtown DC!

More downtown scenery. BTW - Washington DC was empty! Where are all the people!?!

Final evening, final sunset.

Bye bye, DC. Chicago, here I come!

Bangkok Week 818

February 29, 2024

We had a very fun, but very busy, week! Arlo had playdates with P’Kate and (separately) with Martin. And we finally went to check out Pororo Aqua Park, the waterpark on top of Central Bangna. It was a blast for everyone, but maybe a little too long in the sun!

Welcome back! These two are celebrating the last day of Arlo's school holiday with shared noodles.

And a quick trip to Makro with Dad.

Look at this smile. Even in the bath.

Saturday morning: someone took the memo to heart and slept in.

Lucy peels her own eggs now.

Entertaining themselves while waiting for P'Kate to arrive.

We wanted to get in an "early" swim before it got too hot, but didn't really succeed at that.

Uh oh! We lost Lucy during the house tour.

Lunch time!

Arlo and P'Kate play together very well.

Enjoying honey tea...

... and sticky rice.

Lucy didn't get a chance to draw with the big kids, so now it's her turn.

Watching Izzy's Koala World together.

Special Sunday activity: water park atop Central Bangna. First job: finding the entrance!

It's very nicely geared toward little kids (with some attractions for adults, too.)

Warming up with a little slide.

That escalated quickly.

Checking out one of the many pools.

Cautiously following in her brother's footsteps (splashes).

There was one adult slide that Arlo was tall enough for. So here we are, climbing up.

Enjoying the lazy river.

And back at the smallest slides.

Before you get too concerned: yes, this was intentional!

Could have foreseen this, I guess.

Another whirl around the lazy river.

And then lunch break: classic water park meal of fries and omelette on rice.

Arlo really wanted to rent one of these paddle boats.

He was kind enough to let his sister ride, too.

Which meant a few child-free minutes for dad to just bob around.

Lucy found a novel way to ride the donut.

Trying some of the medium-sized slides.

View from the top. It's pretty respectable for a shopping mall watepark!

Out within minutes. (Possibly from heatstroke.)

Inspired by the neighbors to draw with sidewalk chalk. Good thing we had 2 pieces on hand!

Special Monday alert!! It's a holiday for Mum & Dad, but Arlo has school!

A trip to everyone's favorite store!

(At least Lucy came away with a new helmet.)

And afternoon ice cream, before her brother returns home.

The Commander in Chief.

After school, Arlo's BFF Martin came over to play.

Martin is not as enthusiastic about swimming though, so he watched from the sides.

Alert! New flower coming!

It's picture day at school today, too. Arlo is practicing with Dad.

It's that time of year: time to get a new pair of glasses before the insurance year runs out.

Arlo dashed up to the office to show me this.

Lucy's trying out her new helmet...

... and Thomas approves!

Enjoying the delicious "cat tongue" cookies that Martin's family gave us (from Hokkaido).

Waking up and watching the tennis lessons out back.

Riding the giant rocking horse.

Lucy calls the tongs "chopsticks". Close.

More after-dinner ice cream.

Arlo's hide-and-seek hiding place was not very subtle.

Good bye for now, from at least one person who's not camera shy!

Bangkok Week 817

February 22, 2024

This week, we visit Trat for the first time in 2024! Arlo is on school holiday this week, so keep your distance, folks!

Someone came to drop off her big brother at school today.

Lucy says, "looks good! Where do I sign up?"

Yup, Mum is happy to leave both of them right here.

No K. Noi today, so Lucy joins us for a stroll down to the Korean grocery store.

And then of course, it's Friday swim time!

Working on jigsaw puzzles before nap.

And a special Friday make-up for Arlo, since he'll be away on Saturday. (Seaweed power-up!?)

Going up for bed in style.

Somehow, it's pouring rain as we prepare to depart for Trat! The first rain in this house.

Lucy can't wait to go! (Are we there yet?)

Here we are! But it's taking Lucy a little while to warm up to everyone.

Oh my goodness! A brand new bike for Arlo! He's too lucky!

And one for Lucy too, although she'll need to be a little older to ride this one.

Lucy spent the entire weekend trying to get the cats to play ball.

Maybe Tong would like the ball, since Satang didn't want it?

Big hug for Aa Top, who also got Arlo a fancy new remote control offroader...

... and a classic fishing game!

Lucy's first time to the Trat market.

Arlo was allowed one purchase, and he picked flowers.

And it's Saturday, so the walking street is on, too.

Little shoppers.

Night night hugs for Bella.

Testing Puu and Yaa's new TV by watching the 2023 1 Second Everyday video.

Lucy's getting a kick out of herself!

Arlo is all smiles because he was allowed to touch Tong right before his shower.

Yaa's beautiful garden is always in bloom.

Lucy is learning how to operate the remote controlled digger.

Biking offroad.

May as well wash the car while we're here.

These black bean ice cream sticks were a hit!

The papaya tree (and all the fruit trees for that matter) were very healthy and productive.

Aa Top's girlfriend also found an inflatable swimming pool. To say it was a hit is an understatement!

The splashing knocked everyone out.

Late afternoon bike ride at the botanical garden and...

... the neighboring runway!

Arlo's first time biking on a runway, and probably Mum's first time walking on one!

Also an opportunity to feed the (very large, very healthy) fish in the reservoir.

Smile!

Bella is disgruntled that the guests are in her bed, and her overflow bed.

Good morning, Bella!

Oh no, is it time to leave already?

Family photo!

At least everyone stayed healthy enough this time that we could stay the full 2 days!

Trying a new rest stop on the way home: this one is home to lots of fish.

And finishing off Dad's birthday cake once we get home. Bye bye, cake!

Uh oh! Guess which Monkey turns 1 year and 11 months today!?

Less than 1 month left of being 1 year old.

Arlo's checking out how his cactuses have evolved while he was away.

The babies are doing really well, and there are new paddles springing up all over the cactus. It really seems to like it here!

Not yet two, but already a troublemaker!

Lucy really likes the new robot we got from PlanToys.

Starting her day with her dogs.

And Arlo's twice annual eye doctor appointment

No glasses yet, but it seems inevitable.

Oh my! Almost missed it!

This is the 3rd time this year that this guy has bloomed! It's on a roll!

Helping to renew the car insurance.

The tomatoes at the swimming pool are doing really well!

Excited to have ice pops again!

Doing his swimming lesson a few days early again, thanks to the school holiday. This way, the weekend will be free.

I know trouble when I see it.

Watching Ernie's "Rubber Duckie" song for the first time. It was a hit!

Good night from the two little monkeys. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 816

February 15, 2024

Oh no! Dad got COVID this week, so we hunkered down at home, and entertained ourselves as best we could. Arlo was a great big brother and helper for Lucy!

Good Friday morning!

Today is the day we celebrate Chinese NY, and Lucy wanted nothing to do with it, or this dress!

Arlo with the decorations at school, in his finest "red".

And off to swimming by bike.

Browsing the toys before class starts. Which ones to throw into the water next?

Lucy so enjoyed standing on the feet the other week, she'll do it every time now.

Enjoying some play time before heading home for the weekend.

Late afternoon bike around the block.

It's definitely a good idea to wear helmets while using these swings!

This pretty much sums things up!

We're one down, so Arlo's being a great big brother, and helping to put Lucy to bed.

Oh! What's that on top of the tall, skinny cactus paddle?

Three tiny babies!? Watch this space to see how they grow!

Like mother, like...

They really enjoy both the birds perched on the edge of this basin, and the (real) fish inside.

Off to her last make-up swim lesson -- and then we'll be current!

Washing the car... again!? It gets so dusty so quickly!

Mum took Arlo to swimming: first time to observe Arlo's independent lessons!

We did a detour on the way home, and so got a good view of our house from behind.

Late afternoon entertainment in the pool.

A little cold, Lucy?

And dinner on the balcony -- because, why not?

Tough guys...

... or not.

The swing that Arlo made for his cat.

Lucy is genuinely thrilled that her brother came to get her up on Sunday morning.

Modeling all sorts of nice bright shoes.

Lucy's first time drinking milk from a glass. And her last time for a while.

Enthusiastically helping Dog drink water.

Lucy and Thomas, off under the flowers, enjoying a bike ride together.

In fact, the Sunday morning bike gang is out.

Finally! New mail box! (Or should I say, letter box?)

Everyone approves.

Lucy studies carefully as her brother waters the plants.

And then it's fort time!

Sitting in the "garden" of the fort, to eat lunch.

Another afternoon, another cold swim.

And two tired monkeys, getting ready for bed.

Have a good sleep, Arlo -- tomorrow's a school day!

Harvesting some dill, to have with his breakfast.

Breakfast on the balcony -- because, why not?

Lucy wants to swim so badly, she tries to put on her bathing suit.

And here's Arlo, defying gravity.

Lucy, making a quick escape.

These tall condos in Ekkamai 5 / Thonglor 10 are indeed very tall!

Spying on the Little Ninjas.

And checking out this amazing off roader that was parked just in front of our house when we got home from school.

Excited for a weigh-in; we haven't done this for a while. Has Arlo finally broken the 18kg barrier?

Hi, Santa! What good skin you have.

And Lucy is off to her Tuesday playgroup!

Here's Nancy!

And P'Boss, the younger brother of Arlo's classmate, Brooklyn.

Enjoying tea and a chat with Nancy.

Oh! Here come the 3 babies!

Uh oh! Look what got stuck in the basketball hoop!

It's Arlo, off to the rescue.

Reading about dogs when Mum was slow on the trigger to come get her in the morning.

Measuring up: Arlo turns 4 and 5 months today!

Delaying her bath by reading on the beanbag.

Helping Dad prepare dinner.

That's a face of mischief if I've ever seen one! Good night, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 815

February 8, 2024

The house is too quiet with no more guests! But we had a fun week nonetheless: checking out the local market, going biking, inviting more guests, and of course, lots of swimming!

Happy Friday morning! Lucy enjoys lazing in her bed.

She also enjoys this photo of Puu, Yaa, Aa Top, Dad, and Arlo!

Arlo's been itching to try peanuts in the shell. Today's his lucky day!

An unusually large Friday swim class for Lucy.

Celebrating the end of the week in a tree with Aya.

Off to the night market around the corner from our house.

It's a pretty classic night market, with local market prices.

Getting some desserts.

Lucy wanted an ice cream...

... and Arlo got a toy.

A blurry flash on passes us on the way home.

Squeezing herself into the bathtub from K. Wan.

Spitting image of the bear from the calendar.

Enjoying one of the desserts from the market.

Beautiful new lotus from Uncle Andrew.

Happy Lucy, Happy Dog.

K. Wan never realized she was missing an audience!

Arlo's continuing to work on the backstroke.

It's been a restful nap...

... and now, we're off for some cycling!

We were last here about 4 weeks ago, but Lucy's improved massively in that short time.

And Arlo's confident to go back on the big course, too.

A bit of off-road warmup.

Conquering the hills with ease (and balance).

Lucy was also very interested in the scooters.

Arlo tried the "adventure park" for the first time.

It was quite the adventure indeed!

Lucy just needs to learn to look straight as she speeds along.

Our pro bikers.

Stopping afterward for some cold refreshments before heading home.

Bedtime hugs for big brother Arlo!

On Monday morning, Lucy can't help but sneak into Arlo's bed and play with Chompy.

Wondering why her car seat has no covering right now. And why is it in the kitchen, for that matter?

Oh my, Lucy, one milk isn't enough?

A relaxed Sunday morning around the moo baan. (A little too relaxed for Lucy?)

Practicing some hoops.

Look at Arlo's impressive people!

And going for a "drive".

Quick trip to Makro to pick up some goodies for tonight.

Lucy is newly obsessed with keys. (Real keys!)

Biking around the moo baan while waiting for our guests to arrive.

Sally's family and Ronan's family are here for dinner!

A feast of pasta, fries, and nuggets (and some veggies).

Poor Sally couldn't bring her bike home in the Grab. But Lucy promised to watch it for her.

The car has become a canvas for a budding artist. I guess it needs a wash...

Lucy had a special visit from Auntie Pattarat, who spoils her and Arlo.

Arlo has learned how to pick up his sister, and it's novel for everyone!

Tuesday playgroup for Lucy! What a treat!

Another bloom for this cactus; but actually we missed the flower yesterday!

Oh my, look what we found in Arlo's backpack after school on Tuesday!

Hanging out with Mum in the office while she works.

Our speed demon.

Heading into the office for a day. First time trying from the new house.

Lucy showing off all her decorations.

Arlo diligently waters his dill every morning.

The new cactus paddles are much wider. I think they get better light here.

Checking in on his basil overgrowth.

And now it's Lucy's turn for a dentist check-up.

The dentist is happy with Lucy's teeth!

Celebrating good teeth in the mini park.

Having a good laugh over the colorful animals. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 814

February 1, 2024

It’s February! And this week, we say farewell to Granny! But not before we celebrate Dad’s 4Xth birthday, check out a new “farm” across the street, and send Lucy to her first playgroup at St. Andrews.

Lucy's getting a taste of the cookies that Granny and Arlo baked yesterday.

They are Lucy-approved!

Off goes the balance bike whiz.

Oh gosh, stop the presses! These suction cups stick to foreheads!!

Lucy gets quite a kick out of it.

Delicious Japanese for dinner from Granny.

Arlo's practicing for a special day coming up.

Helping to wash the red car.

Well, at least someone is enjoying Granny's clean bed.

What's a swimming lesson without Grandpa there to watch?

Someone's up to no good if I've ever seen it!

What's this? Breakfast bagels for Dad!?

Happy Birthday, Dad!

(Lucy's not sure what to think about those candles. Keeping her distance.)

Arlo's always here to help.

Arlo's been waiting patiently to enjoy this cat cookie from K. Wan.

The ladies in stripes, out for a scoot.

Enjoying the playground while waiting for...

... friends Aya and Doreen to come for lunch.

Hey! Doreen and Arlo have the same bikes!

Garbage trucks: cross-cultural entertainment!

And now it's time for Dad's birthday cake! (The bagels were just a warm-up.)

Lucy has studied hard, and is ready to blow the candles herself!

And a late-afternoon impulse trip to the "farm" across the street.

They had two very cute baby pigs...

... and some goats that were very friendly toward people (or hungry?)

Arlo bought a pot of dill for himself.

Lucy insisted on sleeping with the giant body pillow *and* Dog. Soon, there really won't be any room for Lucy left in the bed.

Lucky Arlo: being dropped off by everyone today!

Meanwhile, Lucy's cooking up a storm.

Stretching at the end of Ninja.

Lucy ran into Thomas on the way to the pool.

Enjoying another of Granny's delicious smoothies.

It's the big day! Lucy's first playgroup at the big school next door!

Sign-up is before the front entrance.

Uh oh! Where did Lucy go?

Spying on her from afar. (Only one caretaker per child.)

Granny's last school pick-up for this schoolyear!

Granny's Last Supper.

Bye-bye, Granny! See you soon!

(But first, some shenanigans.)

Night-night and safe flight, Granny!

And she's off!

Well if Granny's not here for breakfast, Dog will have to do.

What else is off? The two La-Z-boys!

Empty floor in Ekkamai, ready for the next family!

Arlo's new favorite snack: fried seaweed!

Nothing like ice cream cake to keep some bodies quiet and still during dinner time.

Morning check-in on the plants before heading to school.

Live-action football right here, folks.

And inspecting the citrus plants.

Good night, and see you next week, from these two...

... wipe-out!

Bangkok Week 813

January 25, 2024

Aww, it’s Grandpa’s last few days in Bangkok. So we’re busy getting in the last swims, last meals, last outings. And we had a nice visit with friends… oh, and the giant beanbags finally arrived!

It's Friday, so that means Lucy's swimming. Both Granny and Grandpa came to watch...

Grandpa's last school pick-up this visit.

The biker gang.

Trying out her new pool noodle.

Lucy can't get enough of these noodles!

Arlo insisted on showing Granny where he reads his stories at night before bed.

Lucy, too!

Concentrating hard on assembling the 3D butterfly.

Garbage truck entertainment!

Yum yum: donuts for brekkie!

It's the 20th! Lucy turns 1 year and 10 months today.

Can't do it without the new pool noodle!

Waiting patiently while Mum gets ready.

And helping to un-make the bed.

Pretending to be asleep while Granny spins her around.

P'Rohan and Quinn came over for lunch and some playtime.

Bon appetit, from the new photo spot.

I think I see mischief in the eyes of all 4 of these monkeys.

Package delivery! Very large packages!

Finally, Lucy and Arlo's new beanbags!

Housewarming gifts for these two. Arlo picked the color green.

And if today wasn't busy enough, Arlo has swimming at 2:15 as usual.

Meanwhile: enjoying her new bean.

Arlo *finally* just finished the lollipop from the Toronto Zoo!

And washing the dusty blue car. It's pretty easy with this spacious driveway.

Even post-nap, the beanbag is still a novelty.

And then it's pool time. How long are these noodles that they need 2 people to carry them?!

Lucy is very proficient in the big pool with the help of her noodle.

Nothing like fresh sticky rice to help warm up after a cold swim.

Tub time! A new weekend ritual.

Someone wants to sleep *on* her new beanbag tonight.

Starting the morning with some good books...

... and some good jokes.

At the park! We haven't been to Benjasiri park in a long time!

Innovative Arlo, coming up with exciting new ways to ride the seesaw.

Pretty sure Lucy was on this swing for at least 25 minutes.

Refreshment break.

Offroad scooting and biking.

Last stop: the skate park.

Lucy impressed us all with her fearlessness, and her biking skillz.

Arlo came into Lucy's room to wake her up post-nap, and to enjoy her beanbag.

Brr! Late-afternoon chill!

More fearlessness from Lucy the Warrior.

Last school drop-off with Grandpa!

And bye-bye invasive ficus plants from Ekkamai! Enjoy your new home!

No more plants!

Last bye-bye and night-night with Grandpa, who's heading home tonight.

Safe trip and come again soon, Grandpa!

Lucy is really into books these days, especially with the comfy new beanbag to read them in.

Sharing Granny's yoghurt...

... and banging out some tunes.

Books for everyone this morning!

Lucy went over to celebrate Nancy's 1st birthday.

The windows are going into the new condo behind our development.

Arlo and Aya, the monkeys.

Dad and Granny went off to find some new plants, since we didn't have enough yet.

No privacy in these bathrooms!

Thursday brekkie on the balcony?

Arlo's 6-month dental check-up (everything's fine) right at 9, and then quick back to school!

Uh oh! Look who's made their home in the light fixture in Ekkamai!?

A very healthy, fruitful cactus in Thonglor.

Coming home from Donki in an electric tuk-tuk, with new drop-off point in front of our Moo Baan!

This paddle is brand new: the one that only started to sprout when we moved in. And many new ones in the background. Seems they are thriving here.

Looks like this guy will be blooming again soon, too.

Thursday football.

Arlo found another chrysalis at school! What are the odds?

Wasting no time showing off his new flowering plant after he gets home.

And (briefly) helping Granny with the chocolate chip cookies she promised to bake.

No convincing needed to help eat them though!

Ahem, Lucy!

Portrait by Arlo.

This one, too.

Trying to call Grandpa, but with no luck.

So talking to ourselves, instead!

Bangkok Week 812

January 18, 2024

Our new routine is in full swing: school in the day followed by late-afternoon swims with Granny and Grandpa! We also finally made it back to Mother May I, a favorite of everyone.

Starting a new day and a new week in his new bed. Still liking it!

A special drop-off from Granny today -- lucky Arlo!

Off to swimming, by bike again. Lucy *insisted* on wearing her goggles for the ride (but not in the pool).

And safely home again.

The stairs down to the "basement" are the new snack spot.

Watch out for these two wild and crazy roadsters!

Dinner is delicious Japanese by Granny.

The soft planetary rug is still novel.

Saturday morning: rise and shine early, Dad!

What's going on on the balcony?

These two (decidedly sweaty) ones seem to have made themselves at home on the guest bed.

Lunch at Grandpa's favorite Bangkok joint, Mother May I.

Lucy can't remember being here before, so it's very novel for her.

And bonus: it's still Christmastime here!

Practicing for Christmas Card 2024.

Lucky Arlo and Lucy: it happens to be National Children's Day today, so they each get a free strawberry smoothie -- on the house!

Giving the tough girl in the mirror a good stare-down.

Thanks for visiting, Granny & Grandpa!

Bye bye fish! See you next time!

Have to rush home to turn-around in time for Arlo's swimming lesson.

Lucy's still enjoying her room.

Quick Saturday afternoon swim: constrained to the baby pool, since the big pool is being cleaned still.

Dinner time -- outside on the balcony!

Arlo's making a very impressive tower out of the little blocks!

Mid-morning doctor's appointment, to tend to a rash on his face that popped up overnight.

Got some meds, got some balloons -- good to go home now!

Measuring up, against a new wall!

Some quiet time watching Our Planet.

The soft solar system rug is still a hit.

Nice hugs.

A good hodge-podge dinner.

And trying out the bath tub for the first time!

Lucy's showing off her beautiful new dress from Granny (from the Farmer's Market).

Uh oh, she's climbing to the top of the monkey bars already... fitting for a monkey, I suppose.

Dragon fly on Arlo's lime.

Caught red-handed, eating out without us!

Spying on Arlo during his Ninja ECA.

Granny's smoothies are a hit!

Spinning his noisemaker.

Honing his selfie skills.

(Never one to be excluded...)

Making sure everyone gets out of bed with her!

The beginning of her fascination with spoons.

Enjoying their new kick boards in the pool this afternoon.

Fancy headwear, too.

Mum's doing the drop-off today -- uh oh!

Packing in the late-afternoon swims while Grandpa is still here.

Lucy is very focused on sticking her head in the water these days.

Grandpa's been enlisted to help with Arlo's dinner, too.

Sharing the back seat with Arlo -- that seldom happens.

Visiting Arlo's teacher for a meeting this morning; what a lovely self-portrait on the wall!

Lucy's found that her water bottle has a really big straw!

Lucy's also really interested in a Christmas Card featuring lots of kids and babies.

Spying on Arlo after football.

Swing time!

Honing his paddle skills.

Conveniently, this house came with potato chip stairs. Good thing, too, as these two are really into potato chips these days!

Home Place House

January 14, 2024

Over the holidays, we finally moved into our new home in Home Place Village. Come on a quick tour!

Welcome to the new house, in Home Place Village.

Room for a few plants in the driveway.

The entrance atrium.

Front door and atrium, from the kitchen.

Dining area.

Kitchen.

Back "yard".

Stairs going up to level 1.5.

The playroom, on level 1.5.

Living room, on the 2nd floor.

Living room.

Living room, with sliding doors to the balcony.

The balcony - with view of the community pool.

The balcony - large enough for the kids to ride around.

View inside from the living room.

Stairs going from the living room to the 3rd floor.

Landing on the 3rd floor: office right there, followed by guest room, guest bathroom, and master bedroom.

Office - nice and cluttered already.

Office, 2 work stations.

Guest room. When no guests are staying, the sliding door between the office and guest room can be opened.

Guest room.

Guest room, with office partition open. (Don't worry future guests, it can close with plenty of privacy!)

Guest bathroom - this is a net new room.

Guest bathroom.

Hallway, showing guest bathroom and master bedroom entrance.

Master bedroom.

Master bathroom.

Master bathroom - complete with bath tub.

Master bathroom.

Stairs going up to the 4th floor.

Landing at the top of the 4th floor.

Lucy's room.

Lucy's closet. One day, she'll appreciate this!

Lucy's bathroom.

And Arlo's bedroom, with small balcony.

Arlo's bedroom - complete with vaulted ceiling.

Arlo's bathroom.

Bangkok Week 811

January 11, 2024

We’re working hard to unpack and settle in as quickly as we can… because it’s back to work and school this week! But not before some fun on two wheels, and LOTS of swims!

Grandpa in the wild after his first night's sleep at the new house.

The unpacking continues: Lucy's closet is looking good.

Grandpa's project: assembling the IKEA kitchen.

One big benefit of the new house: we can get to swimming by bike!

Happy to be here!

And happy to enjoy a banana afterward.

The curtains are installed! This will be an upgrade tonight!

From the balconies in the guest room and Arlo's room, we have a great view of the Sansiri project.

Chris Chrysalis was looking good, but I think he might not have survived the move from Ekkamai. So close.

As seen from a safe distance: Granny and Grandpa trying their luck with Arlo and Lucy in the pool.

Looking through the butterflies that had slightly better luck than Chris.

Talking to Puu and Yaa for the first time from the new house.

The supervisors.

Ooh, Lucy's room looks so much better with the curtains!

And a new life for the bookshelf from Grandpa Zyggy.

Night night, Lucy. Sleep well in your newly darkened room!

Up early, and enjoying his own space.

What's going on here?

Lucy's trying awfully hard to claim the bottom bunk as her own.

Both are excited to see their new kitchen!

Isn't it nice to go for a morning bike ride?

And a morning swing.

Wow! Puffer fish!

Trying on the safety vest he'll be using to ride to and from school.

Piloting its use on the way to swimming.

Someone's learning to write... everywhere he can!

The playroom looks pretty nice now that K. Wan has helped clean it up!

Another attempt to stake a claim to the top bunk.

The pencil, in its final home.

Preparing his own breakfast.

Migrating to boxed milk.

And one last hurrah before going back to school / work tomorrow: a late-morning bike ride at Nong Bon.

Lucy's riding in style.

Up up up the tall bridge we go.

Impressively, Arlo made it up the whole way himself!

All bikes parked while the riders enjoy a break.

This swing is a bit trickier than others, eh Lucy?

Giant leaves on this plant! Big enough to hide behind.

There go the off-roaders!

Enjoying cool drinks afterward - thanks, Granny and Grandpa!

Doing our homework last-minute: preparing our Learning Journey entry for the holiday break.

And talking Grandpa through last year's Learning Journey.

Lucy, are you in there?

It's almost 5pm, but someone could've kept napping!

And the office is ready for tomorrow's return-to-work!

Granny accompanied Arlo on his first day back to school.

Moved the sun-loving plants down to the back yard.

Grandpa setting a record for number of laps in a single workout.

The roller blinds are installed, and they look great!

The sheer curtains are in now, too. Windows are set!

How did you get to Holey Mothership, Arlo?

Do you feel like you're being watched?

Late afternoon swim on a weekday? We can't get used to this!

The potato chip monkeys.

Someone didn't want to get out of bed!

Uh oh! Mum's doing the school drop-off today.

Oh my goodness! Two cactuses blooming on the same day? What are the odds? (Hint: low.)

Even Arlo can't believe it!

Another weekday swim? These kids are being spoiled!

Starting the day by peeking into her brother's bed.

Handyman Grandpa, hard at work.

Turning the page of his 2024 cat calendar diligently each morning.

Another morning, another peek into Arlo's bed!

Finally, the air is good enough for Grandpa to get a school tour.

Lucy's new rug has arrived - her room is taking shape.

And our cheapo Ikea blind for the bathroom - suits the need!

Spying on the athlete during his football training.

And planting basil seeds with Granny.

The guy -- our longest-standing family member, with us since Ari -- is being upgraded. He's going to love this new pot!

Round-and-round go the wheels on the bus -- Lucy's new favorite song!

Enjoying the new rug.

Look at Lucy in space!

Hiding from the toothbrush.

Good night, and see you next week!

1 Second Everyday - 2023

January 6, 2024

1 second for every day of 2023, starring Arlo and Lucy. Made with https://1se.co/

Bangkok Week 810

January 4, 2024

This is it! The week we’ve been waiting for for over 18 months! The week of the big move!

But first: we go biking, go skating, walking; ring in the new year; and do some serious packing!

Arlo's working hard on his penmanship this holiday!

Doing giant puzzles with Grandpa.

The new Sansiri condo, as seen from the Moo Baan...

... and the front entrance.

Showing off his cool new wheelz at the Happy and Healthy Bike Lane.

Not afraid to go around by himself this time!

Here comes Mr. Cool!

Meanwhile, Little Miss Cool is enthusiastic on her bike, too.

And bonus, there are airplanes constantly flying overhead!

Heading over to the balance bike zone.

Woah! Look at that aggressive Thai plane.

90 degrees right out of Suvarnabhumi.

HS-TEN, eager to get to Singapore!

Resting and enjoying some cool drinks.

Good job today, team!

Took all our ATKs apart so that the plastic shells can be recycled. Too many!

Working on his mark-making some more.

This serious cycler only wears the best eye protection.

Sharing the high chair.

Air's not great, but folks are eager for one final ride around the block this year.

Careful, Granny. Let's not spend New Year's Eve in the ER, Granny!

Starting to work on things in the new house, too. Like putting a clean couch cover on this guy, and moving it to its final place.

And unloading some of the more important goods.

And the new mattress has arrived.

Visiting Benjakitti Forest Park: our sandwich outing. We were also here on the 1st of the year!

Great sunsets. Arlo didn't realize we could see sunsets in Bangkok, too!

Are we getting lazy?

Group shot with the last sunset of 2023.

Look at the rays!

A winning portrait of Master Arlo.

Bye bye, 2023!

First lunch of the new year, and one of the last ones in this house.

What great framing.

Arlo has a new style of car now...

... and he's also gotten really good at drawing flowers.

This is how we do bath time.

How many pairs of goggles do you need to sleep, Lucy?

Who brought donuts?

Things are coming together! Arlo's bed is ready to be slept on now!

And the living room in Ekkamai is looking awfully sparse.

Look at this monkey - deceptively cute!

Inventory of all the cars before they make the move tomorrow.

Sticky rice buns. (Or just sticky buns?)

Skating with Grandpa - one last time while it's so conveniently-located for us.

Neither the penguin nor Arlo has forgotten how to skate, even though we haven't been here since October.

At Arlo's request, Grandpa did one loop around the rink with Penguin, too.

For old time's sake, enjoying snacks and the Zamboni after our skate is finished.

Helping Grandpa fold up his sweater after we're done.

Eating ice cream from... mugs!

Last bike around the block in Ekkamai! Aww!

Last portrait on this staircase for these two.

And the last (Ekkamai) supper -- the New Year's sushi we've been trying to have for 3 nights now.

Enjoy your last sleep in Ekkamai, you two!

Everything is packed and ready for the big day tomorrow!

And we can see the color of Chris Chrysalis's wings coming through.

Here we go! Time for the big move! Granny, Grandpa, Arlo, Lucy, and Mum are heading over first.

Bye-bye, Ekkamai house!

And here we are! Hello, New House!

Checking out his new turf.

Don't get too comfy on these couches, ladies.

Checking out Arlo's new bed.

No Lucy, this is not Lucy's bed, sorry.

This one is also not Lucy's bed.

Meanwhile in Ekkamai, truck load #1 is ready to head over.

And here it is.

Waiting around for the bus.

Back at Ekkamai, truck loads #2...

... and #3 are ready to come over. That's a lot of plants!

Arlo is excited to see...

... the bike arrive!

Lunch time picnic on the balcony.

Uh oh! No curtains yet!

Lucy, are you ready to try out your new room for a nap? Good girl!

Arlo's helping to unpack his new room.

Closet's all ready.

The guest room feels livable now.

Nap time was a success. And now, it's time for an inaugural swim!

Look at this young lady, just walking over to the pool by herself.

Not quite as cold as Rayong, but not as warm as April!

Well, this room is sleepable! And we can unpack later.

The start of a new tradition: eating potato chips on the "basement" stairs.

Lucy's already figured out that she can supervise the dinner table from up there.

Sitting together in Lucy's new room.

Night night, Arlo! Enjoy your new bed!

The start of a new bedtime routine!

Four days in Rayong

December 29, 2023

Just like last year, we spend a lovely 4 days and 3 nights at our favorite hotel, the Rayong Marriott. We swam, played, ate, kicked, rode the golf cart, climbed, slept, and even saw some fish! Happy Boxing Week!

Road trip! We're off to Rayong for 4 days and 3 nights -- exactly the use case we'd had in mind when buying this car.

Lucy insisted on bringing Dog. Here's Dog, enjoying the rest stop.

And last-mile lunch break.

We're here, at Arlo's favorite hotel.

Still decorated for Christmas.

Welcome, Lucy! Do you remember it here?

We have a more elevated view this year.

Lucy barely still fits in the crib they provide for her.

But Arlo looks just fine in it!

Exploring the property: for Lucy, it's like new. Fish!

Football!

And the obstacle course.

The pool we never use!

Enjoying the Kids Club, while waiting for the last room.

Best part of the Kids Club? The golf cart ride back!

The moment everyone's been waiting for: swimming time!

In go the boys.

Gee, looks pretty chilly!

Lucy's enjoying herself, despite the chill. And what's Arlo doing?

Mum's not sure about this.

I think it's time to get out now!

Lucy is so cold, there isn't even time to take off her water wings.

A burrito up to his eyes.

Heading down to the beach.

Someone's still shivering.

Enjoying the big kids (adults'?) swing very much.

Sun is gone. Soon time for dinner!

Enjoying the hotel's snazzy bath tub before bed.

Looks like Arlo slept well!

Breakfast in our own secluded corner of the restaurant.

Football time!

Granny and Lucy slowly warming up for their morning swim.

And Arlo koala has found the perfect tree fork.

Someone's ready to swim!

Well, it's sunnier this morning. But does that mean it's warmer?

Learning to swim independently.

The whole gang.

Showing Granny how well her bum floats.

Two purple-lip burritoes.

Lucy's warmed up and really found her comfort zone.

Just lounging around, eating Sticky Rice. This is the life!

Showing off the cute, tiny shell he found.

Arlo is leading Lucy back up to the rooms.

Lunch at a funky fishing village. So big! So much to look at!

And delicious food, too!

Spotted in the restaurant parking lot: a Porsche! Just sitting next to it to enjoy its presence.

Ping pong with Grandpa.

This photo makes Arlo look quite skilled.

Spending the afternoon back in his tree fork.

And back to the beach just in time to see another sunset.

Look at all the teeny tiny crabs going for a walk.

Lucy enjoying the seaside swing.

There goes the sun!

Lucy's not so sure about the sea.

Beautiful sky!

And gone!

Fishing boat.

Dinner at our favorite hotel restaurant.

Sleeping on a pillow tonight! She likes it!

Pre-breakfast football.

Can you grab two balls, Lucy!?

The classic right-angle kick.

Arlo's showing his sister the way to breakfast.

And trying the really giant swings.

Someone loves it!

Guess what time it is?

You guessed it!

The ladies hit the water first.

Checking out the shark tank from the pool side.

Hello down there!

Baking burrito.

Looking for shells.

Arlo temporarily adopted a ladybug!

Another afternoon kids-club visit for Arlo, Grandpa, and Dad.

And headed back to the beach for sunset...

... this time for a swim in the ocean, too!

Arlo's really enjoying the waves!

It seems Lucy loves the waves, too!

Another beautiful sunset!

Checking out the crab balls.

Uh oh! I guess Mum's sharing the bed with someone tonight.

These two social butterflies would rather sit by themselves for breakfast.

One last swing on the giant swings for this visit.

Swimming to the very end of the pool.

Time for Lucy to be tossed by Dad -- it's a rite of passage.

And the trademark Cannonball Throw by Grandpa!

Thanks for another great visit, Rayong Marriott!

And that's a wrap - everyone's pooped! See you in 2024, Marriott!

Bangkok Week 809

December 25, 2023

Granny and Grandpa arrive for the holidays, and Arlo and Lucy waste no time wearing them in — I mean, welcoming them. And we wish you a Merry Christmas! 🎄Lucky Arlo and Lucy both got new bikes from Santa again this year!

It’s a short week, because we’re off to Rayong on Boxking Day — see separate album.

Granny and Grandpa have finally arrived! Lucy is delighted.

First breakfast in Bangkok.

Poor Granny hasn't even gotten a chance to finish her coffee. It's going to be a busy 5 weeks!

Our chrysalis, Chris, seems to be settling in well.

Oh my goodness. Look at all the home-made cookies Granny brought from Toronto!

Lucy's two favorite activities: looking through the photo calendar and wearing her sunglasses.

Fried rice welcome dinner.

Bath time! Lucy and Arlo love their baths together.

Showing Granny how to play with the Magnetiles.

Checking out his new bunk bed, mattress and all.

Arlo has a chance to look at his favorite car.

First time parking the new car -- I mean, Rudolph -- in the new house.

Lucy's strolling the new moo baan in style.

Arlo has an audience for this swimming lesson: Grandpa!

And Dad and Grandpa go on an afternoon adventure to HomePro Gateway.

Meanwhile, Lucy is using her potty like a lounger.

Taking Granny for a walk around the block.

Oh wait, that didn't last long!

Enjoying the new play bathtub that K. Wab gave Lucy for Christmas.

Good Sunday morning!

At Suan Rot Fai, to go biking. Someone's excited!

We're a big biker gang today!

And doing a tour around Cycle City.

Group shot.

Hey Grandpa, which lane are you in?

Uh oh, parking lot is full now.

Granny's stopping to look at her friend in the moat.

And a stop at the Butterfly Garden.

Hmm. What are these beetles!?

Continuing along.

Last stop: the playground.

Lucy's on the home stretch with Dad.

Granny brought Lucy and Arlo new jingle bells.

Tornadoes: very serious business.

Another walk around the block...

... that quickly devolves.

Tasty Christmas Eve pizza!

And together opening the last door of the Swedish advent calendar.

Arlo baked this cookie for Santa in school, and has been carefully safeguarding it in the fridge.

All ready for Santa!

Lucy and her baby.

Tucked in tight with all her friends. Let's see if anyone hears Santa come!

Looks like Santa's been here!

Up before the sun, Arlo can't wait to see if Santa came last night.

Over the moon about his new monster-truck bike.

And a transformer, too!?

Finally Lucy's awake and down, to see what all the commotion is about.

Oh my, a new bike for Lucy, too?

And a tiger cub.

Wasting no time reading the new books.

In her holiday best - probably the last time she'll be wearing this dress!

Oh! The tiger did come to tea!

She can't help but try her brother's new bike. Good thing the kick stand is strong!

Wow, Granny and Grandpa got a new calendar, too!

Time to try our new bikes!

Ready, set, go!

Looks like it works well!

And here comes Lucy, pulling up the rear.

A very fancy Christmas dinner of Submarine Sandwiches! Well, they are tasty.

Showing off their new Christmas PJs.

Thank you, Granny and Grandpa, for all the gifts!

Night night, Christmas. Until next year!

Bangkok Week 808

December 21, 2023

Unfortunately marked by illnesses, this week marks the real start of the holidays! We took a record-breaking trip to Trat (there for not even 24 hours). After Arlo recovered from his gnarly fever, he and Lucy met Santa! And then began preparing for Granny and Grandpa’s arrival!

We begin this week in the car, headed to Trat for the last visit of the year.

Our new go-to pit stop about 3 hours into the drive.

We discovered it has a small koi pond.

We're here!

Looking at the 2024 calendar that Lucy and Arlo brought.

Enthralled by the sliding duck toy from Aa Top.

Hanging out with Bella in one of Aa Top's cars.

Just practicing.

Long lost friends.

Helping prepare the offerings for the monks tomorrow morning.

And then, Lucy rediscovered the giant water pot.

And it was very quickly downhill from there.

The fun culminated with a very early bath for Lucy (and she'd worked up an appetite.)

The next morning, we decide to turn around and head home already. Poor Arlo is really feeling unwell (despite the photos).

So it's time for some farewells...

... and a quick merit-making.

Checking out all of Aa Top's trophies.

Group shot, this time also featuring Auntie Nan.

And can't forget to say goodbye to Bella!

And to the cats.

Off we go!

We knew Arlo must've really felt unwell because he had no energy whatsoever to check out the cars at his favorite rest stop.

The entire rest stop was decked out for Christmas.

Well, Lucy enjoyed herself!

We returned to Bangkok and headed straight to the hospital, where we happened to come upon a classic car. But even this, Arlo barely batted an eye.

Couldn't even sit up while waiting for the doctor.

Back at home, Lucy really wanted to see Puu and Yaa again.

The next morning, Arlo's fever is still here and so he's back at the hospital...

... to see his normal doctor.

This time, he was feeling well enough to pose with the Christmas props.

Standing up to the cleaning robot.

But the fever isn't gone yet, and Arlo still had to battle through a few more bouts of total lethargy before he was done.

Feeling better after a long sleep.

Lucy, is there any room left in the bed for you?

A comprehensive house update: the glass in the office is in!

The closet in our bedroom is done.

We moved the ginormous bed into the master bedroom, to give more space in the guest room. (And, so we could have a bigger bed!)

The master bathroom is finished, too.

Arlo's mattresses have been plopped down onto his bed.

Arlo's toilet is finally reinstalled.

The downstairs bathroom is done.

And the back yard flooring is done, too!

Lunch time! Slurping up her noodles like a pro.

Arlo's not had a haircut in many months. Time to change that.

He's a new boy!

And Lucy turns 1 year and 9 months old today!

I came home from the office, and Arlo had learned to write his name all by himself.

Lucy and Arlo really enjoy bath time together these days.

Dunk!

On Thursday morning, it was a quick trip over to Nest (Lucy's playgroup place) to have photos taken with Santa.

Waiting patiently in the yard.

Here's Santa, traveling Bangkok-style.

Arlo's sizing him up!

Smile! Merry Christmas!

Insisting on inflating his own air mattresses.

Good work, Arlo! All ready for Granny and Grandpa's arrival now.

Lucy got a Christmas headpiece from the neighbor down the street. It's probably the longest a headband has stayed on her head!

Wall-facing toilet.

All ready for bed in his new room!

Closing this week with Chris the Chrysalis, our accidental new family member. Let's see if he ever emerges a butterfly -- stay tuned!