One week in Taipei!

August 16, 2024

Saturday-through-Friday in the lovely city of Taipei, Taiwan. This was our first big destination holiday-with-airplane with these two monkeys, but it went as well as we could have hoped. We di many “firsts”: the Zoo, Taipei 101, the breathtaking Maokong Gondola, a hot spring, the Taipei Children’s Amusement Park, the National Railway Museum, and many fantastic playgrounds! Taipei is a very kid-friendly destination, and we look forward to going back again!

One admin note: this post contains 2 different photo galleries, because each one maxes out at 250 photos. Once the first gallery loops, please press “escape” and continue to view the second gallery.

It's the week we've all been waiting for!

We haven't seen this Naga sculpture in a year, so it's new again.

We got to the airport plenty early, so there's lots to explore.

Lucy would like to ride a "purple one", thank.you.very.much.

Making the most of my +1 into the lounge.

Someone couldn't wait for strawberry yoghurt!

Making progress toward our gate.

And here we are, comfortably in Row 70.

Waiting (not so) patiently to take off, and enjoying the yoghurt she brought for Arlo from the lounge.

Finally in flight. Breakfast time!

Losing our patience now. Good thing we're in the back.

Out, as we prepare to land.

Welcomed to Taiwan with a giant pineapple cake.

Recharging the batteries on the way into the city.

Here we are, at our home for the week.

Bedroom #1, for Mum & Lucy.

And Bedroom #2 (for Dad & Arlo).

These two wasted no time making themselves at home.

That's the entrance to our walk-up right there.

Exploring the 'hood, on the way to the MRT.

Following the tactile tiles inside the MRT.

Here we are, at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall!

Oh, there she is!

Just one cool solo traveler.

Still getting to their sightseeing shoes.

Well this is not boding well.

Resting and rehydrating before heading up these stairs.

There's President CKS.

As of a few weeks ago, the changing of the guards is at the base of the memorial now, to "eliminating worshipping authoritarianism".

There was still a good crowd.

Heading home - it's been a long day!

And thank goodness for our own kitchen! (And uber-eats, since it was pouring rain by the time we got home.)

Exploring our 'hood -- i.e. a night market -- after the rain has stopped.

This gelato store was directly opposite our apartment entrance, and the giant ice cream cone came to signify that we're home.

The next morning, Arlo was up early to draw in his new notebook.

Waiting patiently for the MRT...

Sitting like a big girl.

"Lucy hold on!"

The mall atrium of Taipei 101.

Every bathroom had fantastic little sinks at a perfect height for Arlo and Lucy.

Here we go, up the world's fastest elevator! (Certified by Guinness.)

The view from the 89th floor is not too shabby!

And we've got a beautiful morning.

Looking west, with Taipei World Trade Center in the "foreground".

The city seaping into the mountains.

And a plane landing at Songshan Airport.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall and the giant Taipei Dome right behind it.

A giant MacBook Air...

... and other cool architecture.

Collecting their first souvenir stamps.

Wefie!

The giant tuned mass damper that helps minimize sway during earthquakes or high winds.

(It left an impression. Tuned mass dampers now feature in all the buildings Arlo builds.)

A quick pop up to the outdoor deck on Level 91.

Proving we were here... and now time to head home for lunch.

Heading out again, knowing that it's likely to rain soon. We're heading to Da'an Park.

No shortage of nice cars here.

Interactive fountains in the park. Pedal for waterfall.

A concert of indigenous music in the park.

And here we are!

It's a lovely playground.

But Lucy's not so sure about the wet slide.

Almost all playgrounds had one of these spinny things. But they're all built at floor level.

Another common feature of the wonderful municipal playgrounds -- polished concrete slides.

Lucy really enjoyed this bucket swing. I think she'd forgotten that this was how it all started a year ago.

That's where we were earlier today!

A very sturdy-looking local bird.

Homeward bound, for a second time today.

The NTNU Art Museum peeking out from behind traditional architecture.

In Taipei, not only can you rent pedal bikes, but also electric motorbikes.

Stopping for some snacks as we approach home (and Lucy naps).

Delicious vegan noodles from a seller nearby.

We're off to the zoo!

Through a mountain we go.

Thankful for the very affordable stroller rental at the zoo.

Does every zoo have token flamingoes at the entrance?

First stop are the koalas!

In fact, they had two koala houses.

When the weather is cooler, the koalas are actually outdoors.

Next, exploring the kids zoo.

The meerkats stole everyone's hearts.

Uh oh! Ducks blocking the path! Whatever shall we do?

We were fortunate to get there early. The big panda house had no lines.

Our first time seeing pandas in real lfie. What goofballs.

And giraffes.

Rhino's bum, elephant's bum, Mum's bum...

Wait no, these weren't bums...

It's only 10:30, but this day (and the steep uphill climb of the zoo) call for an ice cream break!

Enjoying the pygmy hippos.

African elephants, which do look distinct after seeing so many Asian elephants.

The aviary area was fun.

This colorful guy eating lunch provided entertainment.

The playful otters were fun to watch, too.

They had so many giant, old tortoises.

Underwater turtles mean business.

Neat chameleons.

And heading out via Southeast Asia.

This lady looks just like her relatives in Hua Hin.

Little Miss, taking herself around.

This giant spider is *not* an exhibit, but rather, living outside the pangolin house.

A snoozing pangolin. The Taipei zoo is the only zoo to have successfully bred & raised pangolins.

All sorts of funky stick bugs in the Insectarium.

Collecting more stamps before calling it a day.

Heading home via train...

... in the driver's eat of these autonomous trains (with rubber tires).

A delicious dinner that night, and then early bed for everyone.

The next morning, we're heading back out...

And this time, we're trying our hands at the bus!

And our new favorite self-driving elevated train.

To the Maokong Gondola!

The route map.

And up we go! It's a ~30-min ride.

The views of Green Taiwan are beautiful.

Happened to snap a pic of the maintenance car.

There's the unmistakable Taipei 101!

It was also very hot inside: in the direct sun, with no A/C.

Tea plantations at the top.

We made it!

Time for some ice cream...

... and a wefie. And then we'll head back down.

Oh my! A glass-floor gondola this time.

Not for the faint of heart.

Hey look! Someone's actually in the maintenance car now!

At least they provide hand fans in the cars...

Back down at the base of the mountain, and we're off on our next adventure.

Checking our route while waiting for the subway.

Off to Xinbeitou, for its famous hot springs.

The last leg of a journey is on a branch line (!), with a hot tub in the elevated subway cars.

There are lots of very scenic parks in Xinbeitou.

A beautiful lotus pond in front of the public library.

Hot springs! Look at the steam coming up from the water.

There was a nice walkway around the pond.

But oh my, it was hot to stand down-wind of the water.

After a rather steep uphill walk, we're finally at our destination: the public hot springs at Spring City Resort.

It's the only kid-friendly hotspring, apparently.

We had to get out for about 45 minutes while waiting for a thunderstorm to pass.

The staff kindly gave Lucy & Arlo an umbrella (and an ice cream!)

Back in we go.

Kudos to Lucy & Arlo for getting into the 39-degree water!

Nice experience; exceeded our expectations!

And heading home after a long day.

The next morning, we're off again by bus...

To the Taipei Children's Amusement Park, a lovely little government-run amusement park.

First up, a carousel. Arlo didn't remember riding one at the Toronto Zoo.

And then a Ferris Wheel! Arlo's been wanting to ride one for ages!

Exciting!

Waiting to see if we'll end up upside-down at the top!

Nice views!

And then Lucy wanted to ride this "swing".

She was a brave little girl!

Brave... but her first words off were, "I don't like it". I guess that's the end of that one.

Then riding a tame little monorail, for a change of pace.

These guys loved the cute little kid-height sinks everywhere.

And then: the highlight of Taipei for Arlo! Bumper Cars!

He had a blast.

60 baht well-spent!

Taking a break under the shade at a nice playground.

Lucy rode the slide over-and-over-and-over.

(This is the end of Gallery 1. Please press "Escape" and then continue with Gallery 2, below.)

Lucy could have played on this slide all day.

Arlo wanted to ride the bumper cars one last time before leaving, but the lines were too long. So he rode the "mini-bumper-cars" instead.

As we left, the skies opened up. So we took shelter under the Taipei Performing Arts Center.

Ice cream break in an underground mall (while trying to avoid the rain).

And then the National Taiwan Museum Railway Department.

This Museum exceed our expectations - we ended up staying over 3 hours!

They had a "show" recounting key moments in history of the Railway evolution, in this giant model replica of Taipei Main Station, every half hour.

It was mostly Japanese and Taiwanese mothers and sons.

Standing atop a railroad.

Collecting our souvenir stamps.

Learning about the system of signals.

A very cool relief map of Taiwan.

Even the cafe sold bottled water shaped like train locomotives.

Last stop: the kids play room.

Picking up some quick snacks at Family Mart on the way home -- like this vegetarian tuna rice ball.

After resting at home, taking a short walk to a nearby playground.

It was too wet to enjoy.

And stopping for some radish cakes and dumplings on the way home.

It's our last full day in Taipei today.

Heading to the bus via a local morning market.

Waiting patiently for the bus...

... to the northern part of Taipei, with lots of great parks and playgrounds.

We were the only ones at this first playground... except for a crew of repairmen fixing all sorts of minuscule defects!

Lucy could've stayed on this swing all morning.

A swing for wheelchairs!

Lucy was wise not to try this slide. Mum did, and boy did it hurt!

Continuing our stroll, past a rose garden...

... and a ginormous hedge maze.

Poor Arlo couldn't walk that day, and so was confined to the stroller.

Then we stumbled upon an *amazing* playground, with all sorts of activities and multiple trampolines.

It's the Huabo Park Xinsheng Park Playground, and apparently it's still relatively new.

Lucy was into this large, polished concrete slide.

And a (wheelchair-friendly) spinny thing.

And another spinny thingy.

And another trampoline of sorts.

And there was an amazing climbing apparatus, but neither Arlo nor Lucy was big enough to use it.

And they had so many different types of swings. Lucy could've stayed here all day, too.

And there was a cool treehouse, too.

Oh, and did we mention that this park is directly under the final approach of aircraft landing at Songshan airport?

Waving to the A330 from Haneda.

Continuing our sojourn, and waiting for the rain to start.

Back through a business district.

This shop looks familiar!

Finally arriving at Huashan 1914 Creative Park.

This old winery is now a cultural hub, with neat stores.

This little shopper wasn't going to let a few drops of rain stop her.

Very intrigued by these "flattened" glass bottles.

We splurged and bought a great new travel backpack.

Lucy also could have stared at these intricate moving music boxes all afteroon.

Heading home in the storm, via Chiang Kai Shek memorial hall again, to collect the souvenir stamps we missed on the first day.

Piping warm soup for dinner, to warm our soggy souls.

The next morning, waiting under the kitchen table, after our second earthquake!

One last outing on our final morning: to Lungshan Temple.

Even the temples spray water mist in the summer.

Columns of amulets.

Lucy was very interested in watching everything.

Saying good-bye to the fish.

And good-bye to Taipei for this trip.

Heading back to our AirBnB one last time!

So exhausted, they couldn't even make it to the airport.

Collecting our final souvenir stamps.

More of those neat wooden music boxes at the airport duty-free shop.

Arlo enjoying his buttered bun and apple juice.

And on the final leg home!

Bangkok "Week" 842

August 9, 2024

One last Friday morning before Mum returns from Spain. Then she’s back, Arlo and Lucy have fun new water cannons to play with, and we’re off again!

Peek-a-boo through the doll house.

Excusing herself to a corner of the playroom.

Trying on Dad's fancy new noise canceling headphones.

Painting: to each their own.

She's back!

Everyone stick onto Mum and never let go!

Playing with the new water cannons.

And Arlo built a very cool elevated train line.

The cardboard wrappers from my take-away dinners in Spain; I knew they would be a hit!

Onward and upward!

Bangkok Week 841

August 8, 2024

It’s the week we’ve all been in denial of: Granny and Grandpa leave Bangkok and head home. And to make matters worse, Mum leaves for Madrid two days later. Kudos to Dad and the kids for plowing through!

We begin this week spying on the tennis courts.

(Which provide good lighting.)

Oh no! It's Granny's last breakfast with Arlo & Lucy. Who's going to give Lucy her yoghurt?

Helper Arlo is helping to bring down the sheets from Granny & Grandpa's bed.

Too sad to take a proper photo.

Bye bye, Granny & Grandpa! See you in September.

Lucy is perfecting her chopstick skills.

And Arlo is "fishing" from the balcony.

Reading about Thailand over dinner.

And burning some late-evening energy.

This pretty much sums it up.

Uh oh! I see two bopping laundry baskets, but no kids!

At swimming, Lucy's still not confident enough to stand on the mat.

But she'll happily run and jump off it!

Trying on her new (old) coat for Japan.

Two monkeys "helping" K. Wan with the cleaning.

Who gets a snack before swimming!?

It's Teacher If today, who has to put up with the monkey's shenanigans.

Arlo opened a store!

Lucy will take two, please!

Waiting my turn in line.

After-dinner exercise.

Synchronized sliding?

Doing a tour of the moo baan with k. Wan before she heads home.

What a charmer!

Uh oh! Someone needs to go to bed, stat!

A final bedtime story with Mum, before she's off to Madrid.

Bye bye, my monkeys! Behave well!

The lotus bloomed again after coming back from the brink of death.

Wearing a paperclip.

Great lighting for these chair photos -- photo credit Dad.

Two monkeys in pajamas.

Someone knows how to smile for the camera.

Arlo is pleased with his new powered locomotive + passenger car.

Testing how much weight it can pull.

Wow, it can even climb a hill while pulling 5 cars.

Then a pivot to painting.

This requires a lot of concentration and precision.

Pleased with her art.

And then moving on to people. Lucy loves her people.

The trains continue to entertain.

Whereas Lucy's people continue to sit around.

Peek-a-boo!

Did we mention Lucy's stank face?

Oh wow! Two new rescue vehicles, too! Dad's pulling out all the stops.

Poor Dad. Not much work going on, I see.

K. Wan's two little Wednesday helpers.

The truck driver, pulling his caravan.

Stopping to serve some champagne to Longjohn - how thoughtful.

Practicing her balancing -- maybe soon she'll be ready for the floating mat!

Lucy's patiently waiting her turn to swing.

And hanging out with the big boys -- who are more fun anyway.

Meanwhile this week, Mum is off to Madrid.

The skies over Eastern Europe are busy on a Monday morning.

Great view of Frankfurt airport. Hey wait a sec, aren't we supposed to land there?

And then heading south over the Alps.

Welcome to beautiful, hot hot Madrid!

Looking for dinner on the Gran Via.

Hmm... a tuk tuk with shoulder belts!? This can't be authentic...

And a hopping walking street.

CentroCentro at night.

And beautiful tree-lined Paseo del Prado.

The hotel.

CentroCentro again, this time at sunrise.

Looking up Gran Via.

Beautiful shadows from the low sun.

Puerta de Alcalá - Madrid's answer to the Arc de Triomphe?

Beautiful tile work.

And one more walk, this time through the Parque de El Retiro.

So many runners, it's a hazard!

And so many beautiful trees.

Excuse me, sir, but there appears to be a bird on your head.

We need one of these!

A chance meeting in the Madrid airport -- with Yvonne, Alba and Ines's mum!

And we're homeward bound. The great Frankfurt cityscape.

I applaud Condor for having a sense of humor.

But tonight, I'll be riding the "purple one" (to quote Lucy). See you soon!

Bangkok Week 840

August 1, 2024

Another week, another road trip — this time to Trad! It’s the first time that both sets of grandparents have gotten together as grandparents!

We start the week with a visit to the doctor!

And more late-afternoon swims with Granny & Grandpa.

Look who has been practicing his flips!

A clean entry.

Splash!

Arlo's new favorite pastime: counting his money.

Pink tongues!

Another week, another road trip!

Our fist time to Trat in almost 5 months... and Granny & Grandpa's first time in over 5 years!

Hello, Bella!

Bella even remembers Granny.

Arlo and Lucy waste no time.

And Arlo is over the moon with his *twelve* new cars.

Granny & Grandpa are trying a new hotel - at the gas station!

Well, it's got a nice view.

Checking out all their Trad toys -- like they're new!

BFFs.

Arlo's interested in getting Bella to shake a paw.

With Puu and Yaa.

Delicious dinner prepared by Top and Nan.

Bath buddies.

The only time Arlo has his hair brushed is when he's with Yaa.

The next morning, everyone is eager to go outside.

Shake a paw, Bella.

One of Arlo's favorite pastimes in Trad.

But today is a special day -- it's the annual merit-making.

Lucy's a year older. But does she have the patience yet?

Arlo was great, he both had patience and knew some of the chants.

And then it's time to toss the coins.

With Granny and Grandpa's help this year.

Arlo has been looking forward to "catching" for months.

Pleased with their "keep".

Full group photo -- this time with grandchildren!

Tong was nowhere to be found all morning. Well, here he is!

Bella and Tong - BFFs.

Checking out the jewelry store + cafe next door.

To describe it as slow would be an understatement!

Helping Yaa prepare the veggies for dinner tonight.

One of these visits, Lucy's bike will fit her.

Another delicious dinner from Top and Nan.

Woah! Yaa has been saving this pomelo for Arlo & Lucy. She grew it in the back yard!

Bella knows that the Bangkok crowd is heading home soon.

And so it's time for some final photos.

And a big kiss on the lips from Sister Bella.

Bye bye, see you next time Aa Top! Thank you for everything!

Arlo and Lucy show Granny & Grandpa their favorite rest stop on the way home.

And bonus : it has a swing!

This is the monkey who refuses to sleep in the car.

Visiting the new condo next door right after we get back to Bangkok.

Well, Lucy's made herself at home.

Happy to be back in her own bed.

More Monza with Grandpa.

And Arlo's continuing to work on his flips.

Another 6 months have flown by. It's dentist time again!

Arlo's a pro in the chair by himself.

And Lucy benefited from watching her big brother go first.

Unfortunately, Granny and Grandpa were too old to get their dengue vaccines.

New running shoes for the new school year for these two.

Delicious lunch of Pad Thai and som tum, courtesy of K. Noi.

Challenging himself with a 64-piece puzzle.

Lucy insisted that we wear winter hats.

Ooh! New bubbles!

(The living room is now the "bubble room" according to Arlo.)

Lucy has yet another make-up lesson, so lucky Granny & Grandpa get to see her swim one more time.

And Arlo took to heart his assignment to draw a picture for Granny & Grandpa before they leave.

Checking to see if his masterpiece is done.

Left to right, you have: Arlo, Granny, Grandpa, Bella, Lucy, Satang, Mum, Tong, and Dad.

And a make-up lesson for Arlo, too.

Lucy's practicing wearing her backpack for school in a few weeks.

But she hasn't realized she can take it off.

The boys are having deep conversations...

... like how thieves might hot wire a car to steal it.

Lucy kindly sharing her swing with Arlo.

Peeking on the older kids in the swimming pool.

And we end this week with yet another cactus bloom.

Bangkok Week 839

July 25, 2024

A super busy week: and one we’ve been waiting for! A long-weekend in Hua Hin, at both the luxurious Sheraton and the benevolent Wildlife Friends Foundation of Thailand (WFFT).

These two are looking fab in their matching stripes. Happy Friyay!

Lucy's taking Granny to her (make-up) swimming lesson today.

Granny's a natural now.

Lucy insisted on helping Dad work.

Oh no! We're going to miss the purple bloom again while we're away.

And we're off to Hua Hin!

We've been upgraded to a fancy suite, and Arlo thinks it's great.

Here he's posing for all the photos.

Our ginormous bathroom.

And the living room.

And the office space.

And testing out -- and getting sand in -- the bed.

Our lush, ocean-view yard.

Lucy's made herself at home on the sun lounger.

This is the life!

But it's Granny & Grandpa's room that has the pool access!

Not too shabby a pool view!

Without further ado, it's lunch time!

Beach front dining, 10 steps from our yard.

And so begins Arlo & Lucy's weekend of fries.

The best we could muster, posing with the beach...

Now taking a tour of the property.

(Finally) back at the lobby.

The Kids Club was being renovated, but Lucy still enjoyed the swings.

A quick stop at the temporary kids club.

And sneaking in one golf cart ride back to the room afterward.

Whee!

Time for a swim! The TV became our sunscreen distraction.

We love the lagoon pool!

First time swimming under a waterfall for these two.

Choosing the pool right in front of the lobby to do big, loud jumps.

Splash!

The jacuzzi bubblers are not too bad, after getting used to them.

Group shot, at the edge of infinity.

And checking out the kids pools.

Rescuing little beetles from the kiddie pool.

And checking out the tiny beach.

It's nothing like the Rayong beach.

Even the shells aren't as nice... says Lucy's face.

Wave jumping is more difficult because of the steep angle of the beach.

Washing up in our waterfall bathtub - how lush.

A dinner of fries: our favorite food, at our favorite restaurant.

Clambering for the beach.

Two cuties.

The sleeping situation: as full of fraught as the photo suggests.

Walking to breakfast.

Arlo's hotel special: waffles with sprinkles.

Stopping to swing...

... and ping some pongs.

Checking out the beach again - this time at low tide.

What a difference half a day makes - now the beach is a mile deep.

Jury's not yet out on the shells here.

Fascinated by the little crabs.

Group shot!

One last swim in the pool before checking out.

And one last splash in our lux bathtub.

Bye bye, Sheraton! Off to...

... the elephant sanctuary!

The view from our room is different than when we were here 3 years ago.

It's soon bedtime, so the elephants are in their enclosures for the night.

Bath time!

And dinner time!

Some of the volunteers getting to bathe one of the big ladies.

Ice cream break!

Granny is elephant-gazing from her balcony.

A quick dip to cool off before dinner time.

Dinner with a view.

The mama of all spiderwebs!

Oh no. Are we really going to put 3 people on a Single bed tonight?

Early morning elephant viewing.

Breakfast door-busters.

The gibbons are up nice and early with us.

Checking out the local millipedes...

... and plant life.

Little sister leading the way for big brother.

Morning, elephants!

We were privileged to have a great view of these two ladies enjoying brekkie.

Running toward the gibbon cages and jungle bungalows.

Handsome but loud. So loud.

The elephants are out in their enclosure today.

Count them all!

Playing with the local dogs...

... and enjoying another dip in the pool, while Granny & Grandpa are on the tour.

Two 2-year-olds. Any resemblance?

Bye bye, elephants! It's been nice to see you again.

Someone's exhausted. And must have a sore neck, too.

Whoops! We missed Lucy's tree photo two days ago...

... so here it is, slightly belated. 2 years and 4 months.

Our purple cactus flower bloomed while we were away.

Meanwhile, this yellow one bloomed two days in a row! That's rare!

Helping Granny with the carrot grating.

Arlo is wearing his cool new WFFT shirt...

... and so is Lucy!

Learning to play Uno the "right" way with Grandpa.

The two pink panthers.

And a peacock with a bare bum, helping mum in the office.

Delicious bite of pad thai from Baa Wan.

The two shoppers back from a successful mission.

And time for a late-afternoon swim.

A sleepyhead.

With no intent of getting out of bed.

Uh oh! Grand stole Lucy's nose!

Lucy is placing beads on a spinning top.

Very pleased with herself; and Granny is impressed.

Great artwork by Arlo!

So expressive.

And closing off the week with everyone's favorite board game: Monza!

Arlo cleaned Grandpa's clock!

See you next time!

Bangkok Week 838

July 18, 2024

It’s another busy week in Bangkok with Granny and Grandpa! We make it back to Happy & Healthy Bike Lane for the first time in several months; and Benjasiri Park, also for the first time in months. The gang visit Safari Garden and the Peacock Cafe sans parents; and they also get in lots of late afternoon swims!

Arlo started Friday by helping to get Lucy out of bed.

The view from Mum's office: it's so clear today that you can see mountains!

Ending the week with a signature swim with Granny & Grandpa.

Finally assembling the beautiful Plan Toys doll house that Dad ordered.

Lucy is really into it...

... especially the little bed.

Lying on the bed!

Another yoghurt brekkie with Granny.

It's Saturday morning -- that means swimming for Lucy!

And surprise! It's a big day for Teacher Big!

The swimmer and her special guests.

Arlo made a puppet while we were out.

Enjoying milk with Grandpa.

Saturday swimming continues!

The gang arrived so early, there was time for a snack!

Continuing to learn the frog kick.

Arlo's teaching Granny how to play Monza -- his new favorite game.

The outing we've all been waiting for: Happy & Healthy Bike Lane!

The skies have dried up, and so we're off to the races!

Warming up in the practice zone.

And after some time, Lucy has found her feet -- and her courage -- and is off on the pump track with her brother!

Here they come!

Big brother Arlo was so good, he patiently waited for his sister.

Down the big hill!

And waiting for fries before heading home.

Someone's proud of what he built, while waiting for the clock to strike 8:00.

Three generations of ladies.

Lucy's showing Granny how a sand timer works.

Picking out their favorite gemstones.

This jumping bean turns 4 years and 10 months old today! And Lucy is here to help him celebrate.

A morning at Benjasiri Park, where we haven't been in months!

Lucy monopolized this swing for a good half-hour.

And then she built up the courage to try the big slide. Thanks for showing her how, Arlo!

And then it's a quick stop at the K-Village Farmer's Market.

A refreshing drink...

... and an even more refreshing Hokkaido Milk ice cream.

Back at home, Lucy is admiring the zucchini-shaped avocado that we found at the Farmers' Market.

And Arlo is dutifully helping Dad prepare dinner.

Lucy, is that butter you're eating?

Hmm... maybe that wasn't such a good idea.

And wrapping up another fun weekend with a swim.

Lucy modeling one of her new dresses from Granny.

Arlo's at the barber for a long-overdue hair cut.

Looking sharp!

The doll house has a great new slide.

Sibling duet.

Uh oh! Lucy heard that she's going out, and so she's all dressed and ready to go -- one hour early!

Eating breakfast in her gear.

All ready for Safari Garden!

3 adults and 2 kids: think there's enough coverage?

It's been over a year since Arlo and Lucy were last here.

Lucy's more adventurous than last time for sure.

Lounging around on the balcony, enjoying the breeze.

Arlo's twice annual eye check-up.

Thankfully, his eyes seem to be a bit better, and we don't have to come back for a year!

Trying on dad's very pricey earplugs.

Granny's picking fabric to have a new sack -- I mean dress -- tailored.

Late evening chat with Kat.

Arlo is working hard this morning.

Taking calls on Mum's behalf.

Another exciting outing with Granny & Grandpa & P'Noi.

This time, showing them the Peacock Cafe.

Unfortunately, the colorful male peacocks have run away thanks to the noisy construction next door.

Excuse us, Grandpa - what are you having today?

Feeding the ladies in white.

And back at home, checking out photos from their outing.

Bangkok Week 837

July 11, 2024

It’s the week we’ve all been waiting for: Granny and Grandpa arrive! Lucy and Arlo waste no time: they teach them new boardgames, take them swimming, take them to Dream World, and take their yoghurt!

Welcome back! Who needs a climbing wall when you have windows?

Arlo's showing off this amazing plane he built.

Lucy has a make-up lesson...

... with Dad!

The Saturday morning we've all been waiting for! Granny and Grandpa are arriving soon!

But first: Lucy must eat Dad's breakfast.

Trying on Mum's Thai boxing shorts. Cute!

And Arlo's really excited by all his (expired) Indian Rupee.

Lucy and Mum go to swimming...

... and then wait at home patiently...

... while Arlo and Dad go to the airport.

Here they are!

Lucky Arlo and Lucy: so many gifts in so little time!

New fridge puzzle magnets.

And dress-up leis (aplenty).

And opening the books from Uncle JasmineJosh that didn't *quite* make it in time, in April.

Looking for Arlo.

Then it's off to Arlo's swimming class, before Grandpa even has a chance to rest.

Meanwhile, Lucy entertains Granny.

Teaching Grandpa how to play his new board game, Monza.

And a late-afternoon walk with Granny (while Grandpa naps).

Granny with her two tour guides.

Dissecting the tiny papaya we found while out with Granny. (It's edible!)

And reading a new book from Granny.

Sunday morning, special breakfast treat.

Guess where we are today?

Dream World! The perfect way to adjust to the new timezone and climate.

First up is the cable car.

Mum and Lucy rode with Grandpa...

... while Dad and Arlo rode with Granny in the car in front.

Next, the scenic choo choo train!

Mum and Lucy got the best seats on the train: the caboose!

Giant fruit, and giant lily pads.

Next up: the little roller coaster. Someone's excited!

There they go!

And Lucy's turn!

Arlo was enthralled by the talking garbage can.

And Lucy wanted nothing to do with the giant gorilla.

Waiting patiently for...

... the antique cars.

Uh oh! The whole family is at Arlo's mercy.

Arlo was actually a very impressive driver.

Now Granny and Grandpa's turn!

Arlo and a transformer.

And now, a return to the ride that scared Arlo 2.5 years ago: Monza!

This time with Lucy as his co-pilot.

Well, the verdict is in, and it's Arlo's favorite ride this time!

In fact, we could rename Sunday "Monzaday!"

Once was enough for Lucy, thank you very much.

This canoe ride is more Lucy's speed.

Enjoying the ride, and pointing out all her observations to Granny.

Who rowed it better?

Ice cream break!

We couldn't convince Arlo to ride the helicopter 2.5 years ago, and he did today...

... but he was very unimpressed.

Lucy was enamored by the duck game...

... and so GrannyGrandpa kindly sponsored them to play.

Two winners!

Enjoying the nice, slow monorail...

... which almost put Lucy to sleep.

Family portrait at Dreamworld.

And a quick stop to see the farm animals.

Arlo loved this tractor last time, too!

And last attraction of the day: the water park!

Very age-appropriate (for both Lucy and Mum).

Lucy settled into her grove after finding this yellow slide. She went over and over and over again...

Splash!

Sliding in tandem.

The parade is about to start, so we may as well stick around for that.

What an assortment of floats, characters, and cars.

Lucy really wasn't sure what to make of it all.

Brekkie the next morning: this is a recurring theme now.

Arlo's back for an echocardiogram -- basically, an ultrasound of the heart.

He was very patient throughout the whole ~15 minute procedure.

It was a long morning at the hospital, and Arlo was rather hungry by the end of it.

Look! Another cactus flower!

And more board games with Grandpa.

Teaching Grandpa how to play maths bingo.

And oh my! These two hit the jackpot!

... including this fabulous spinning skirt.

Another breakfast, more yoghurt for Lucy.

Driving his sister around.

More Monza.

And Granny and Grandpa's first swim (of many).

Trying on his new Swedish PJs.

Storytime with Granny.

Arlo's trying on one of his new t-shirts...

... as is Lucy (as she enjoys Granny's yogurt).

A personal tour of Annabel's new Nursery campus.

It's beautiful, and the garden is nice and large.

Brand new indoor sandpit and slide.

Lucy's classroom.

She made herself right at home.

Now it's Lucy's turn to try on her new Swedish nightgown.

Granny's got two great escorts (in snazzy new outfits) to help her down the stairs.

Showing off their bangles...

... and making playdough.

How many people does it take to make one batch of playdough?

Lucy loves it.

And Arlo can't wait to roll it.

A wonderful first week with Granny and Grandpa around. To be continued!

Bangkok Week 836

July 4, 2024

Mum’s finally back from Boston, and Lucy is recovering from her cold. So it’s a low-key week(end) with lots of boardgames and fun at home.

It's Friday, Mum's still not home, and Arlo and Lucy both have colds. So this calls for a Kinder Surprise Egg!

Assembling his surprise.

And passing the time catching bubbles!

Playing some table tennis...

... and football.

Peacock!

And great leaning cactus tower.

Here comes Mum, on the new airport shuttle train.

Exiting the airport and greeted by a beautiful rainbow.

Wasting no time: learning to play his new Monza board game.

Uh oh! Lucy got a new board game, too!

And trying out the new smoothie straws.

Last souvenir from Boston: new pool towels!

Enjoying the office popcorn - it's a hit every time.

Lucy the Lounger.

Arlo is well enough for his swimming lesson on Saturday afternoon.

Getting the hang of Monza.

The peacock has added his headdress.

Balcony bubbles.

These straws are a hit!

Playdate with Lamar, whom we haven't seen in may months.

Practicing board games...

... and storytime.

Playing with the cactus float for the first time in a while.

Breakfast thief!

Arlo's long-overdue EKG...

... and holter test!

Showing Lucy what's hiding beneath his shirt.

Arlo's abstract butterfly.

And building a beautiful condo for his butterfly.

Lucy's helping K. Noi and K. Wan cook special lunch.

Cheers!

Bedtime storytime - with synergies!

And evening playground while Mum's at the office. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 835

June 27, 2024

It’s a busy week! It’s Arlo’s last day of school for the year; we join the very fun birthday party of two of Arlo’s classmates… and then Mum heads to Boston for the week, leaving Wonder Dad in charge of Arlo and Lucy. Good job, Dad!

Happy Friday! Lucy has taken over Dad's breakfast.

It's Mum's last day of school... so Arlo gave his teachers his thank-you card.

Thank you to Teacher Kamila for two years of patience with Arlo!

First day of school vs. "last".

Meanwhile, at swimming, they're all set up for Water Safety week.

It's Lucy's last (scheduled) lesson with Teacher J.A.

Oh my! Someone's hair is getting long!

Construction site underway.

Friday night playground.

Eating a hearty breakfast, because we have a big morning ahead!

It's Arlo's friends' shared 4th birthday party!

And it's a pool party, no less.

They've got a slide set up, and all sorts of other fun water toys...

... like these boats.

Sharing the boat with his classmate.

Hodgepodge group photo, with 4 families' worth of kids.

Time to try the slide!

Not long before it devolved to face-first.

Swimming on top of the world!

Lunch break!

Lucy's just going with the flow. (Everyone remarked how "chill" she is.)

Hanging out with Arlo's good friend, Brooklyn.

Uh oh! Chaos in the pool!

Then we had to dash home, so Arlo could make it to water safety week at swimming.

Learning to float on pieces of drift wood.

And practicing with the life preserver.

Practicing his balance, and learning how to paddle.

Whee!

Back at home, drawing with the crayons from the goodie bag.

Lucy's up from her nap, so she has to wake up Dad, too!

Arlo's beautiful drawings.

The day is never too busy to squeeze in a swim before dark.

Little Miss Independent can carry her own pool toys.

Ice cream for dinner.

Modeling Dad's eye shade.

Brave Dad is attending the annual homeowner's meeting on Sunday morning.

Bloomin' cactus!

Dad survived his first day with no Mum at home. Way to go, Dad!

A perfect day for some splashes.

Checking out the millipede.

Special tuk-tuk ride to school today.

Arlo finally has a chance to give his last thank-you card to his Thai teacher.

Last day of school!

School's out for the summer!

Back at home, Lucy's got plenty of help.

Arlo's beautiful drawings of K. Wan!

Good tooth technique from K. Noi.

Eating Dad's brekkie.

Special trip...

... to the Peacock Cafe!

Mr Puzzle...

... and Little Miss Hat.

Meanwhile, here's a quick set of clicks from Mum's trip to Boston.

Waiting for the train. (They depart every 3 minutes.)

The centerpiece sculpture.

The new satellite terminal. Doesn't look or feel anything like the main building!

First time on Turkish Airlines.

When "in" Turkey...

The Istanbul Airport really is something!

If you can't decide what to watch, how about 12 channels at once!

Finally in Boston, with a great view of the cityscape!

The seaport has changed dramatically since we lived there!

And the harbor looks like a mini-Sydney harbor now.

Good ol' Barking Crab is still there.

Trader Joes haul!

Sunrise over the Seaport.

The original Dunkin Donuts, in Quincy.

More beautiful roof deck views.

Pier 4 looks nothing like it used to!

Spot the ICA! It used t be surrounded by parking lots.

Bye bye, Boston! You've been lovely!

Heading home! And yes, that's a roll of wrapping paper.

Bangkok Week 834

June 20, 2024

We celebrate two milestones this week: Arlo turns 4 years and 9 months old, and Lucy turns 2 years and 3 months old. Otherwise, we keep things low key, to expedite the recovery from colds and various other ailments. Oh, and our lovely tree got a fairly substantial trim.

We start the week with a milestone: this big boy turned 4 years and 9 months old today!

And someone else is dressed to impress for the occasion.

It's a special day, becasue Arlo is going on his first field trip with his class!

They visited the Ekkamai Science Museum.

Success! Returned with as many as they left with.

And if that wasn't enough, then tired Arlo had Ninja as usual after school.

And couldn't even stay awake for the ride home at 2:45.

Someone else has been practicing her balance.

Team Polar Bear!

Mum's very special weekend alarm.

Goes exactly as you would expect.

Why ride one bike, when you can ride two?

Breakfast in style.

A long-overdue carwash, after muddying it up in Rayong.

Lucy shows off her arm strength.

Sitting in "a nest".

Arlo kindly let Lucy into his room, and gave her a tour.

Special pre-swim snack.

Coming home with two more noodles, to make use of the 500 baht voucher we got.

Shuffling up the Uno cards. Arlo's mesmerized.

By the end of this Uno game, Arlo wanted his hand to be hidden from his opponent!

Late afternoon bike ride around the (extended) neighborhood.

A silver lining!

Starting the day with a Yakult...

... and donuts. It must be Sunday!

Calling Granny and Grandpa, to say hi to Great Uncle Peter & Great Aunt Clearley too.

The talk of the town today is the tree cutting!

Dad and Lucy are in position to watch as they aggressively "trim" our tree.

Stuck outside our house, and so playing at the playground.

Monkey!

It's coming down :(

The entertainment lasted the whole morning.

Great view from the office balcony.

We interrupt the tree saga with Arlo's flying car.

And practicing some penmanship over lunch.

Almost done.

Before and After. Can you spot the difference?

Playing maths bingo again.

Enjoying the DQ blizzard that we ordered while Lucy was napping.

Pool time! Everyone's well enough to go back today.

What's going on here?

Celebrating Sunday evening with some tub time!

Uh oh! They fell asleep in Mum & Dad's bed! Shh, we'd better not wake them.

Two Monday Morning Monkeys.

Taking a selfie with Arlo's camera.

Coloring in the Chirp Magazine.

A lovely tree.

Lucy has been asking for an apple. So here she is, with one.

Lucy's favorite thing to do with pajama pants these days is... wear them on her head.

Making som tum with P'Noi and Ba Wan.

Special lunch treat!

It's a big day for Lucy: dropping Arlo at school, and then visiting the nursery to meet her future classmates and teacher.

What a nice big brother.

Lucy made a ribbon twirler before Arlo did.

And Arlo only made one because someone else did.

Here she is at nursery. Lucy hasn't been here in a year.

She hoisted herself up onto this rope swing all by herself.

Washing hands before leaving. A successful first visit!

And what's this? Someone else is celebrating a milestone today?

Arlo's hard at work drawing thank you cards for his teachers.

And meanwhile, this monkey is up to no good.

We close this week with two monkeys enthralled by a millipede in the back.

Bangkok Week 833

June 13, 2024

It’s the culmination of art week at Arlo’s school, and this year again, he was lucky to win a piece that he likes. Arlo’s class also did a short performance for the parents. We enjoyed several play dates, and a fun week around the moo baan.

It's the culmination of art week at Arlo's school.

Everyone is placing their final bids in the art auction.

And the students will take the stage for their final performance of the year.

The children, and the parents, are in position!

It's time for the Snowdrops to take the stage. Arlo and Aya lead the charge.

No nerves on these kids.

The class is singing a song of their own creation.

Arlo had the loudest voice on stage.

All done, and enjoying watching the other classes from their seats.

Then, we rush home for Lucy's swimming.

Can't leave swimming without a Yakult these days.

Lucky Arlo won this artwork - Sparkles - that his class made.

The balloon still floats, even when it's tiny.

This monkey decided her forehead is a great place for a sticker.

Excited by he new art in his room.

Saturday lunch special: curly fries.

Lucy's learning her geography.

Lots of sun means the fish fountain is very high!

Lucy enjoys the company of her bear.

Reading to bear.

Let's not nap all afternoon, Lucy.

Time for a bike ride!

Uncle Mick and Auntie Cat brought a delicious strawberry shortcake.

It's both delicious and super cute!

Sunday morning storytime!

And then a visit to Aya and Doreen's house.

And this is what Mum will look like with grey hair.

Their pool is cooler than ours, but fun nonetheless.

Arlo and Doreen enjoyed playing together in the big pool...

... while Aya and Lucy enjoyed the small pool.

And then the fun continued inside their condo.

Doreen enjoyed teaching Lucy how to draw and paint.

And their mum kindly made udon for lunch.

Silence while everyone enjoyed ice pops.

On the way back to the car, the kids stopped to feed the building's big fish.

These guys were hungry!

That was a tiring playdate! Arlo fell asleep on the drive home... and it's not even 10 minutes away.

Afternoon books...

...and Arlo learned some new games with Dad.

Advanced math bingo.

Breakfast entertainment for Lucy on Monday.

A giant fruit delivery arrived from Trat!

Someone enjoys decorating her face with bath bubbles.

Lucy's friend Clementine is home from school all week, which means Lucy has someone to play with during the day.

Meanwhile, this monkey insisted on bringing his giant fire truck to school.

Watching dad exercise in the exercise room.

Hair cut for Mum!

Dad's new ladder comes in quite handy.

Uh oh! Tree down after a very strong storm.

Looking for a kitten under the car. Nevermind the wet ground.

Lucy's been working on her balancing (and confidence).

Tadaa!

Beautiful skies after the rain.

So many kids home from school means quite the gang at the playground in the mornings!

Checking out a giant caterpillar.

Football for Arlo.

Some of Arlo's clay artwork from school. Great work, Arlo!

Helicopter overhead!

After-dinner swing.

There's no getting proper smiles from this one anymore.

Night night, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 832

June 6, 2024

This album is the remainder of the week, after we returned from Rayong!

Arlo said he was going to make a naval ship out of the green mats when we got home...

It's got a cannon and everything.

Tuesday morning breakfast on the ship.

Getting back into the swing of school after being away for 4 days.

It's art week, and the whole school is decked up accordingly.

It was also an opportunity for Arlo to show off the atelier.

This piece of art is part of the art auction. It features a great self-portrait by Arlo.

Meanwhile at home, Lucy had her friends over, since they had the Tuesday off school.

Slurping up her noodle soup at lunch.

Browsing the artwork on auction at school.

Lucy's embodying Flat Stanley today.

Looks about right!

Everyone enjoying ice cream for dessert.

Done her own, Lucy's now enjoying Dad's ice cream.

What to do if your brother is blocking your beanbag.

She couldn't quite figure out how to put on her pajama pants...

Playing the bells at school.

And using the drum sticks as rail road tracks.

Having fun at Nancy's house.

Arlo's new "globe of the world" arrived, and he loves it.

Standing up her bolts and nuts.

3.5 days away in Rayong

June 3, 2024

A non-stop long weekend of splashes, slides, swings, swims, shells, waves, and more - all at our favorite Rayong Marriott!

We're off to Rayong!

Lucy can't bear to face it, so she's burying her head in a bucket.

When we reach the hotel, Aa Top and Aa Nan are there waiting for us.

First order of business: lunch!

It's a special place, with this special offroader...

... and water buffalo!

Lucy was intimidated by them.

Freshly laid chicken eggs, by the farm's chickens.

Looking for the chickens.

Quick self-guided tour while waiting for lunch.

Found the chickens!

Arlo's inspecting this giant flowering cactus.

The whole lunch gang.

The entrance to the dining area.

Bon appetit!

More exploring after lunch.

Dad's showing Arlo how rice grows. So don't waste a single grain!

Smile.

Stopping to feed the water buffalo on the way out.

They're very tame, and very solid.

But they're not as chompy as the goats back at the farm in Bangkok.

Huge creatures: Arlo for scale.

Back at the hotel, our room is ready and someone is excited!

Great view; quality upgrade!

Taking in the sights.

Saying bye-bye to Yaa, Aa Top, and Aa Nan before they head back to Trat.

Big hugs.

Bye bye, Yaa. Thank you for coming to Bangkok to help!

This little lady is on a mission. To swim!

We tried the kids pool, thinking it would be (more) shaded than the others...

... it was shaded, but it also got the blustering sea breeze that was present the whole weekend!

Nevertheless, Arlo asked to have the water turned on in the splash zone.

And Lucy bravely ran through the rings.

Sheltering under a giant mushroom.

Queen of the pool.

Lucy also discovered that you really fly down the slide when wet!

Back in the room for some quiet time.

Snack time!

A late-afternoon stroll toward the beach; but stopping to see our fishy friends.

Lucy's inspecting the boats. Which one to take out?

Well, we've pretty much got this beach to ourselves!

It was so windy that we need rocks to hold the blanket down.

The sand play lasted for *about* 43 seconds....

... and then they were off!

Trying our darndest for some cute beach photos.

Behind-the-scenes.

Interest quickly turned to shells.

And studying the waves.

The waves were much bigger, and the wind much stronger, than at Christmas!

Run!

Another cute, but tricky one.

More behind-the-scenes.

Had we known this was going to be a wave-jumping session, we would've worn swimmers!

Wet, tired, but happy.

The same dinner as always, but inside tonight, because rain is coming.

Lucy enjoyed the mac & cheese.

Fun in the tub, and then zonk - to bed for everyone!

Early to breakfast the next morning: we were practically door-busters!

This went exactly as anticipated.

The wind is still strong!

The entrance to the Spa -- which we've never really noticed before -- is quite picturesque.

Turns out it's millipede season in Rayong!

They were all over!

I spy with my little eye... two monkeys!

Time for our morning swim!

We had the water slides (and the pool) to ourselves this morning.

Making use of the Go Pro.

Three thumbs up for the weekend so far!

Taking a swim to the far end of the pool. It looks more blustery than it really was...

... although it was raining on-and-off.

Here we are!

The goggle gang.

A few minutes of sand play, and then the skies really opened up, sending us running for the hills.

Lunch at our favorite restaurant...

... and then an afternoon stroll at the Rayong Botanical Garden.

"Botanical Garden" is a bit of a misnomer.

The highlight is the endless water filled with blooming lotus plants.

There was a very shaded walk through rainforest...

... that emerged in even more unique vegetation, and a very unique bridge!

A sign of the times.

The bridge!

The many kayakers *just* had enough clearance to pass under it.

Not for the faint of heart.

Heading back the way we came.

Lucy really enjoyed watching these fish!

Popping into the kids club.

Big kiss for giant bear.

We still had the place largely to ourselves; the weekend crowds were only starting to arrive.

Arlo's really into coloring now.

Chatting with another stair-climbing millipede while waiting for the golf cart to come.

Whee!

Late afternoon beach again: this time, we've learned from our mistake yesterday.

The waves are still good and strong, as is the wind!

Who knew wave jumping could be this much fun.

Stopping to play in the "muddy" sand.

And time to dry off via giant swing!

Getting some sand time in where it's a little more sheltered.

The crowds have arrived!

This little burrito is ready to head up!

Dinner is the same ol' menu, but served in the bar tonight (because the restaurant is hosting the Saturday evening "International Seafood Buffet".

Another morning, another breakfast. Getting a little better at this.

Ready with his sunscreen!

We came to try the "other" pool (the 50m pool right on the ocean) but it was too chilly!

So we'll take some selfies instead.

Lucy and Dad retired to the Kids Club long ago...

... and Arlo soon followed.

But oh my! The crowds have caught up with us! Look at the shoes outside the Kids Club!

One of what seemed to be only two bunnies there right now.

A first swing on the swings. This time, even Arlo enjoyed it!

Arriving at Wassana Fishing Village, where we had lunch over Christmas, too.

We had our own (hot) little gazebo over the water.

One kind table across the water from us invited Lucy to feed the fish with them.

Continuing along to another off-beat attraction.

But first! We parked next to this truck, and it was impossible to say no after Lucy saw that larger-than-life cone.

We're here to visit the HTMS Prasae, a ship that the Royal Thai Navy built during WWII.

Visitors can climb aboard the ship.

Lucy enjoyed turning all these "steering wheels"...

... while Arlo was much more interested in the "cannons".

A boat on a boat!?

Spot Lucy, Arlo and Dad!

Spot Lucy and Dad!

The area was undergoing massive construction & renovation. Normally, this is a green park!

Well, that was a fine sojourn off the beaten path.

Back at the hotel, it's time for more water slides!

Arlo is fully confident to ride on his own now.

Lucy still requires, and welcomes, some assistance.

Warming up on the sunny sand.

The sun has finally come out for our last day here!

Arlo was really interested in the tall shadows.

Dramatic lighting!

Someone has also mastered building with sand.

Third night's a charm: dinner outside, where we usually sit.

It's a nightly hair wash here, with all the chlorine, salt and sand!

Arlo-rex.

Bedtime stories are fun when everyone's heading to bed at once.

Well, I suppose this was inevitable.

Tough to beat this view from bed!

No trip to Rayong is complete without some table tennis.

Lucy can't believe it!

Running to show off the long fuzzy cat-tail-like flower he found.

Getting in some last slides.

And finally getting some time with the new basketball rig.

She shoots, she scores!

Toodling around on the noodles.

And coming to swim with the fish.

Oh my goodness, Arlo found a genuine four-leaf clover!

Spot Arlo!

Our little book worm.

Getting in some final swings.

In synchrony.

And offset.

Both of these Cirque du Soleil acrobats only wanted to be pushed higher and higher.

Bidding our final farewells to Rayong.

And the requisite photo-sitting-on-an-ice-cream-cone-chair at the PTT on the way home.

It's been a great trip! See you next time!

Bangkok Week 831

May 30, 2024

Mum’s back from India, and things are still in full-swing. Lots of swimming this week, gearing up for the upcoming long weekend away.

Mum's back from India, with a car for Arlo (as promised). He's thrilled.

Checking out the doors.

Big hug.

And jumping right back into the routine: swimming at 11 with Lucy!

Look at this cute little shark.

Uh oh! Watch out! There's a shark in the pool!

Comparing cars after school.

Arlo's trying the assorted nuts and dried fruits from India. He's found one that he likes...

... but it turns the tongue red!

Full dinner table!

Touching a fish bone for the first time. Yikes!

Yaa's bed is more comfortable than either of theirs.

This car from India is not leaving Arlo's side.

A lovely Saturday morning wake-up in bed.

Jok for breakfast with Yaa.

And an early stroll around the neighborhood.

Lucy's settled into her seat, watching Baa Wan outside.

These two modeling their new matching Indigo outfits hand-made in India.

The clown entertaining her audience.

The Heliconia on the balcony is flowering.

Vegging out with his Sesame Street Mecha Builders after swimming.

Lucky K. Wan has a new helper now.

Evening ice cream for these two.

Reading, while they're meant to be tidying up.

Good Sunday morning!

Everyone loves Stanley!

Patient Arlo sat through Lucy's entire (make-up) swimming lesson.

And then Arlo had a whole lesson of his own!

Two polar bears enjoying ice cream.

Monday morning, back at school.

Hamming it up for the camera.

Another cactus flower!

After-dinner walk.

Their new favorite hiding spot for hide-and-seek.

Lucy, tucked away in her reading corner.

Someone didn't want to get dressed this morning...

Arlo, pretending nothing is unusual.

Dinner and ice cream time again.

Arlo's last day of school before the 4-day weekend.

And Lucy's last day of work.

Uh oh! Looks like we're going to miss this cactus bloom while we're away! See you in Rayong!

Bangkok Week 830

May 23, 2024

Puu and Yaa come to visit; and then Mum heads off to India for 4 days. Kudos to Dad for holding down the fort so well! Oh, and Arlo is the break-out star of social media this week.

Uh oh, Lucy! What happened to your shirt?

Lucy is very proud of how she's managed to twist her shirt into tangles.

Milestone mileage for the red car.

Lucy is all ready for swimming!

Even though we didn't bring bananas, Lucy would like to have a seat at the table.

Lining up all the stickers he earned at Ninja today.

Lucky boy getting a piggy-back to the car.

Uh oh. Where's Lucy!?

Talking to Granny & Grandpa.

Hair's looking good, Arlo!

Special Saturday morning outing...

... to the new condo right behind the Moo Baan. Today is opening day!

Detail-oriented inspectors.

The whole gang came along!

Arlo and Lucy approve of this kids' room.

In fact, they made it into the Developer's Social Media post!

Great views of our Moo Baan...

... and our house!

Arlo rushed home to build a replica of the parking lifts that we saw at the new condo.

Uh oh! A kid-eating caterpillar.

Waiting patiently for Puu and Yaa at the bus station.

Here they are!

Someone is a little bit shy.

What good sports: Puu and Yaa step right off the bus, and onto a tuk tuk to watch Arlo's swimming lesson.

Special afternoon treat: one of the Kinder Surprise Eggs that Jasmine & Josh brought.

What's the surprise inside the egg?

Someone is enjoying a deep sleep.

Lucy is finally warming up to Puu and Yaa.

And trying her Kinder Surprise egg, too.

Unintentionally matching today.

Uh oh! Where's Lucy?

The balcony floor has become a slip-and-slide! Watch out!

Someone has mastered the art of funny faces through the glass... but I'm not sure she realizes it.

Extended family dinner! Welcome to Bangkok!

Arlo looks forward to eating his rice congee for breakfast with Puu and Yaa.

Just hanging out. And Lucy, what exactly is going on over there?

The big commotion in the Moo Baan this morning is that they're dredging all the drain pipes.

It's so interesting that Lucy can't even stop to get dressed.

Found some big pieces in the drain outside our house.

Uh oh! The neighbor drove their car wheel into one of the open grates! Happens every time.

A very high-concentration drawing session going on here.

Arlo is really into coloring things in these days.

Looking at Lucy's drawing together.

Caught red-handed, playing with the fishes' fountain.

Rehearsing for tomorrow's official tree photo.

A quick after-dinner dip in the pool...

... and then Mum is off to the airport.

See you on the flip side!

Monday morning - Puu is heading home today.

One farewell photo with everyone.

This is a fine opportunity for Puu to see Arlo's school for the first time!

Bye bye, Puu. Thank you for coming!

Lucy's official tree photo! She turns 2 years and 2 months old today!

Uh oh, Lucy.

Uh oh, Lucy. Caught red-handed again, this time washing your hands in the fish!

Lucy's excited to be off to her playgroup...

... where she's made a new boyfriend!

Mum is gone for 36 hours, and she finds herself a boyfriend!

One of the newer cactuses in the back has bloomed - and it's a lovely pinkish flower.

Cousins from Trat (who are now Bangkok-based) have come to visit Yaa while she's here.

And they brought fruit from Trat, too.

Thank you for the visit!

Arlo's doing some gardening.

This is our social media break-out week. Arlo is also prominently featured on the Annabel's socials.

Helping Dad to assemble the new stand fan for the kitchen.

Night night from Bangkok and the matching PJs. Good work all week, Dad!

A few clicks from India.

Lots of tuk-tuks (rickshaws) in the streets...

... and lots of cows (at least on the route I took from the hotel to the office).

See you next time!

Bangkok Week 829

May 16, 2024

Flat Stanley finally makes his school debut! The cactuses are blooming, and we visit two different public parks. But most importantly, perhaps, we stumble upon a restaurant with hedgehogs that makes Arlo’s (and Lucy’s) week!

It's here! The day we've all been waiting for!

Poor Stanley is ready to go to school!

Here we go!

An adequate likeness. Happy Book Week!

Then, it's off to swimming with Lucy.

With her goggles, she's muh more streamlined in the water.

Uh oh! Someone's spying on Mum during a call.

Yet another cactus flower. Tis the season!

Uh oh! Someone got into the sunscreen.

And someone is practicing wearing her flip-flops.

Back to Benjasiri Park, for the first time in a while!

Lucy's in her happy place.

But it's awfully sunny today!

Finding some shade amongst the trees.

Someone's learning how to pump on his own.

Chocolate milk break!

Seeking respite from the heat inside the new EmSphere mall right next door to the park. Turns out they have a floor of showrooms for *uber posh* cars.

How cute: the family bathroom has a little sink (and a little toilet) for the little ones.

Uh oh! Is rainy season upon us?

Wow! Another cactus flower!

And trying out the tractor pajamas.

Special donuts for Sunday breakfast.

And a new cactus paddle. This guy is now the tallest member of the household!

Checking out a new park...

... with a modest bike lane.

Turns out this park also has a fantastic, Toronto-style playground.

Unfortunately, it was also peak sun while we were there.

This playground would be perfect in the late afternoon. I bet it gets packed!

This park also has a great cactus garden.

Look at the flowers. How come ours has never flowered?

Sizing up the danger in this one.

Little Miss Red.

Last stop at the park: a little "Green" library.

It was actually a very nice little bilingual library for kids.

Reading 'Madeline in America' for the first time.

Then we stumbled upon a Restaurant out there...

... which happens to be home to all sorts of special animals that Arlo's read about (and seen online) but never in person.

The hedgehogs were an utter delight. He was so happy.

So many cute little hedgehogs!

Also Meerkats.

And more guinea pigs than you've ever seen altogether! (But they were clean.)

And ducks. Lucy loved the ducks.

There were also lots of talkative birds.

And very cute, fluffy free-range chickens roaming around.

Lunch is here! Arlo and Lucy thought the fries were delicious, but I suspect they were hungry.

Dad wants to get a chair like this for the balcony. It's a bit big, no?

Arlo was intrigued by the bird that was nibbling his finger.

Photobombing!

Lucy's back with her ducks.

They're on the run!

"Hi Ducks!"

Yum yum, pizza!

Arlo wanted a photo with a standing meerkat.

Lucky us! Right next to our table, they started bringing the snakes out to have a cool bath.

Brave Arlo touched a few snakes and this scaly orange lizard.

Lucy was fine just looking.

Well, that was a thoroughly exhausting morning, and - while Lucy stayed awake the whole ride home - someone else conked out.

We made a water gun playdate for the pool, so off goes Lucy with hers.

Waiting for the neighbor to arrive with his water gun too.

Oh! It's flat Lucy! Spitting image of the boy in the book!

Playing airplane with Dad.

We restocked the sprinkles for Arlo and Lucy's ice cream... but we might've gone overboard!

Sitting together in their milk corner.

Someone turns 4 years and 8 months old today!

Lucy invited Nancy over because she thought she found Nancy's ball in the street.

Speaking of playing, Lucy can't wait to leave for her Playgroup at St. Andrews. She said good-bye and walked right out the front door by herself.

Playing with slime today...

... and friends.

Meanwhile at Annabel's, Arlo helps Aya put her backpack "in the trunk of the car".

And helping one of the TA's put away the rocket ship.

Arlo found these lush green branches somewhere, and so of course had to bring them home...

... for Chompy.

Lucy the soda monster!

Our newest purchase: a cute little toaster oven, for those small things that can't go into the normal toaster.

Partners-in-crime: giving the fish a late-night snack.

And it's a very heavy midday downpour.

Mesmerizing!

Somehow, it stopped soon enough for Arlo's football to be outside.

Hugs or tackles?

Bangkok Week 828

May 9, 2024

It’s a busy week! Arlo and Lucy have a blast at Happy & Healthy Bike Lane. We have guests for lunch; enjoy a long-weekend; and many events at Arlo’s school throughout the week!

Welcome back! We begin this week with an exciting tennis match outside the window.

We're off to swimming!

Lucy's favorite part of swimming these days? Sitting in the lobby eating bananas.

After-dinner cycle to wind down the work week.

Opening a box of printer toner - how exciting!

Practicing being Flat Stanley.

Bring on the weekend! Lucy's ready!

Checking on the fish. Everyone still there?

Looks like everyone could use a nap.

At least a year after she brought it, someone is finally digging into the giant chocolate Toonie from Granny.

Fast asleep, even though we have places to be!

Happy & Healthy Bike Lane!

Everyone's favorite bike lane! But we haven't been here since February!

Lucy's off to the balance bike zone...

... while Arlo does some pedaling with the big kids.

There he goes!

If you look closely, you'll see Arlo in the BMX area!

Lucy insisted on riding one of the loaner bikes. "Big bike!". (I think she was referring to the tires.)

Someone's having fun.

Then, Arlo came along, and Lucy quickly realized that she wanted to ride in the pump track too.

And so, perhaps without realizing it, off she went after her brother!

Arlo was a great big brother. He was "showing Lucy around" (his words).

Double trouble on the hills!

Lucy quickly got comfortable with the track...

... often zooming right past her brother.

It's impressive to think that she only received the balance bike 5 months ago!

And now, it's almost dark. That's our cue to go home.

Another successful outing! (Major injuries averted.)

Sunday morning chill.

Lucy's wearing two fine braids today.

"In nature" with a papaya tree.

Students of the arts.

Some of Dad's work friends came to visit for lunch on Sunday.

They got the full Arlo + Lucy experience.

Helping to peel the Asian pears.

Another week, another cactus bloom!

The car's getting dusty, so the boys fixed the problem.

After her nap, Lucy decided to take care of her own wheels, too.

Flying with Dad.

Enjoying some commercial ice pops that Dad's colleagues brought earlier.

The first 2 baht that Arlo worked to earn: from watering the plants, feeding the fish, and tidying the playroom.

Today's a holiday for Mum & Dad, but not Arlo. So Lucy gets to play, "only child"!

Watering the plants...

..."working"...

... and matching the straws to the appropriate cups.

If you can't tell, this is "Lucy sleeping" on the stairs.

And this is Lucy being a monkey.

It's book week at Arlo's school, and they're pulling out all the decorations!

My question is, where do they store a pirate ship normally?

Late afternoon bike ride around the outside of the moo baan.

Reading bedtime stories together. So cute!

It's Stay-and-Play (or open classroom) on Tuesday at Arlo's school.

So the parents are welcome to come into the classrooms for an hour, do activities with the kids, and look through the learning journeys.

This is a detailed self-portrait that Arlo did the day he wore his white-and-black striped leggings.

Looks like we're caught red-handed.

It was an oddly dark and stormy morning, though. So it felt like nighttime outside!

Arlo's class and the others worked the day prior to make these sandwiches.

Performing "3 little fish and the big bad shark" for the parents.

The rain continues, and Lucy shelters herself appropriately.

Bear must come down with Lucy in the morning.

Arlo and Dad read stories every morning now...

... and Nimo often joins to listen.

These two finished their dinner and had early baths with K. Noi!

Nothing like evening entertainment!

Playing with the new nuts and bolts that Dad bought them.

Book week continues: today is "Teddy Bear's PIcnic" and everyone is invited to bring their favorite stuffed animal.

Chompy had a great time at Annabel's!

"Lucy, too!"

And finally, the new PJs are here!

No more complaining about tight PJs allowed!

Night night, enjoy your nursery rhymes, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 827

May 2, 2024

It’s our last weekend with Auntie Jas & Uncle Josh - let’s make it a memorable one! We take a few more tuk tuk rides, get some shopping done, and explore some fun & cool shopping malls. Wishing them a safe trip home. Come again soon!

Otherwise, we’re using our hands to bake some banana bread, and make Flat Stanley for Arlo’s upcoming book week!

Oh! What's this? Dad's taking Lucy to swimming today!?

And yay, Jasmine & Josh are back from Bali!

Now this Thai monkey needs to take some photos of his own.

Catching up on lost time.

No evening in Thailand is complete without mango sticky rice!

It's the weekend, and Lucy heard we're heading out!

Waiting for the tuk tuk to arrive.

And we're off...

... to Terminal 21!

A cool way to look at some local shops.

First stop is the food court on the top floor.

Delicious fresh smoothies!

Lucy was really excited to pose with all the different figures. This one is "Boy".

And "Bear" (who also received many hugs).

And a life-sized nutcracker, of all things.

Arlo found a London tube train on the way to the bathroom.

And after much insistence, Arlo got to actually try the arcade race car.

He required a bit of assistance.

Funny, this drum-beating game was right up Lucy's alley!

Now heading -- by foot -- to EmSphere, the newest mall in the Emporium complex.

We're here on the promise that it has a great food court... and it really doesn't disappoint!

Arlo and Dad had to head home first for Arlo's swimming lesson...

... while Jas, Josh, Lucy and Mum stayed back for some souvenir shopping.

Somehow, Arlo had energy for a great swimming lesson!

They found the broom that they'd been looking for, for only 40 baht!

Cooling off with a late-afternoon dip.

Jasmine & Josh are part of the community now.

Oh Lucy, who's going to do this for you once they leave?

Lucy wanted to bring Bear for a tree photo.

Up bright and early the next morning to play remote control car.

And now that everyone else is up, one last opportunity to make breakfast with Auntie Jas!

Today's pancakes are banana, and Arlo's on the key job.

Lucy wanted to watch...

... and she seems surprised by what she sees!

Arlo's idea brought to life: one giant pancake!

Looking at Arlo's masterpieces together.

Low key Sunday morning with the peacocks!

The giant swing is even more fun with Auntie Jas!

The peacocks were on their best behavior for the special guests.

(Although from behind, they're not nearly as impressive...)

Exploring the treehouse.

Drinks are here! And one of the peacocks wants to see what we ordered.

Strong Lucy!

How beautiful!

Lucy doing her best selfie face.

Heading home!

Cooling down in the playroom.

Uncle Josh is helping Lucy refine her badminton technique.

Farewell lunch for Uncle JasmineJosh at everyone's favorite Mother May I.

Cheers to a great Southeast Asia visit!

Lucy is enjoying the deep-fried crispy noodle bed.

Showing off our complementary tourist dresses.

And after a 24-hour delay, trying the delectable Brassica donuts from yesterday.

Donut cheers!

And one last swim with Uncle JasmineJosh.

Look at these underwater divers!

Look at Lucy the swimmer.

Cheese!

Our best group shot; the sunglass thief is caught in the act.

This is what Lucy would look like with Auntie Jasmine's legs!

Big jump for Arlo.

And Lucy's heading down to the bottom of the deep end.

Showing off the ring-gathering skills that she's honed in swimming class.

Is that how to collect the rings, Lucy!?

Last good-byes with Auntie Jas & Uncle Josh, who are heading out at 4am the next morning!

Thanks for a wonderful visit! It's been a blast to have you!

Arlo's been wanting to bring his giant fire truck to school, and he finally had a chance.

And an afternoon trip to Arlo's favorite store.

Lucy is impressed by the book haul.

They are both entertained by the Sesame Street lift-the-flap book, now that we know the characters.

Arlo's discovered a new favorite breakfast: cocoa balls.

Someone's very excited to wear her backpack!

It's a holiday today, so let's bake some banana bread!

Lucy is sizing up the challenge.

It's her first time baking; so, some help is to be expected.

After the baking fun, it's time for some painting!

It took a while, but she finally got comfortable getting her hands messy.

The artist and her masterpiece.

And now for a small diversion: many new paddles on the giant cactus.

And another first for Lucy: shoping at Makro!

She likes it!

In fact, she's now the one doing the shopping.

Banana bread is ready!

Can we serve it now, Lucy?

Delish! Lucy ended up eating that whole piece!

Lucy found Arlo's "lost" Wawa (which was deliberately hiding above the washing machine) and she's very pleased with herself.

Now that Lucy's asleep, it's time to work on Flat Stanley!

Arlo's all ready for book week!

Lucy the explorer would like to spend some time outside.

Camping out with Clementine.

Arlo's collecting his stamps at the end of Soccer.

Playing with a nifty travel set for eating noodles, from 7-Eleven.

Gulping down her evening soda.

These two bookworms know how to delay their bedtime.

Bangkok Week 826

April 25, 2024

Jasmine & Josh are away in Bali this week; and so we fill the weekend with swimming lessons and playdates. Plus, an adventurous Monday & Tuesday while K. Noi is out sick.

Welcome back! Jas & Josh are off to Bali this week, but the orchid from the floating market is doing well in its new home.

Speaking of orchids, Lucy got her own mini-bouquet from Arlo & Dad.

Intently working on a carrot.

Oh my! Arlo's got glowing ears!

And Lucy is holding a ball of fire!

Duet time...

... but four hands are not enough for Lucy.

Oh dear. These two monkeys are dangerous when they work together.

Enjoying dad's cereal for breakfast.

Cutting out a memory game from one of his new Chirp Magazines.

Arlo and Lucy had friends over -- it's very convenient to find another pair of siblings the same age!

Heading off to (make-up) swimming... by tuk tuk!

In fact, Lucy had a private lesson!

She enjoys sitting at this table after class, to eat bananas.

Another huge cactus bloom!

The Sesame Street fan club right here.

I think someone is trying to provoke her brother.

This monkey turns 2 years and 1 month old today. Trying to game the photo!

Oh! Arlo and Dad also went to swimming by tuk tuk!

Starting to learn the "frog kick".

Arlo in a handsome Sunday shirt -- this one was from Granny last visit.

Again, someone has co-opted Dad's cereal for breakfast.

Lucy having another playdate - lucky Lucy!

Bye bye to An and Fiadh, who head back to London next week.

Lucy enjoying noodles for lunch -- adult style!

Special after-lunch treat for the two monkeys...

... Swensen's ice cream!

Another adult lunch for Lucy.

Uh oh! Dad's away for work and P'Noi is home sick. So Lucy and Mum have to take Arlo to school today!

Arlo saw an older schoolmate hanging by her legs ... so he wanted to try too.

Someone has made herself at home at school already.

And then, Mum & Lucy headed to Playville!

We were last hear almost a year ago; I'm sure Lucy doesn't remember it.

She was very courageous, and very independent!

Interestingly, she was very engaged with the make-up counter and all the (wooden) lotions and creams.

Going fishing together!

Putting babies to sleep.

Harvesting carrots.

Grooming the chickens?

"Washing" hands.

And lots and lots of sliding!

I was very impressed; Lucy was also able to climb up this "rock climbing" wall -- a shortcut to the slide!

We've picked up Arlo, and now it's Lucy's nap time. Can't you tell?

Watching Sesame Street while Mum takes a call.

Wrapping up a long day, with some playground time.

Dad and the monkeys.

Just hanging around.

Special lunch out for Mum & Dad, at a little Mexican restaurant down the street.

Bargain of the week: balancing stones! From the Japanese second-hand store.

And Project Flat Stanley begins! Stay tuned to see more! Bye for now.

Bangkok Week 825

April 18, 2024

Bring on the holidays! Jasmine and Josh are here — it’s the visit we’ve all been waiting for (for years)! Songkran is in full swing, and we experience hot and sweaty sightseeing like never before. It’s a fun week for everyone; Arlo and Lucy are especially excited to have “UncleJasmineJosh” visiting.

They're here! Bright and early on Friday morning, the honeymooners emerge in Bangkok ready to take on Thailand!

Lucy is wondering if she woke up in the right house or not.

Jas and Josh brought super-fun bubble guns!

Giving a tour of the moo baan. This is already proving hot and sweaty.

Getting the guests oriented with a trip to MaxValu.

What a great welcome lunch - fresh Pad See Ew!

Arlo is really testing Uncle Josh by showing him all his cars (when he'd surely much rather be sleeping; we already lost Jas.)

Post-nap dip to cool off.

And trying the mango sticky rice they (wasted no time) buying this morning.

And they're off to Chinatown! Hope we see them again!

Special breakfast the next morning: fresh pancakes!

Arlo's job - and he really can't believe it - is putting the chocolate chips on the pancakes.

Could they make an "A"?

The two chefs, and the "A"!

I've never seen Arlo eat breakfast this quickly!

Let's not forget that today marks the start of Songkran!

Happy new year, from these two monkeys.

And let the games begin, eh Lucy?

Everyone's all set to go!

And we're off to K-Village, our proven Songkran celebration spot.

Stopping first to pour water on the buddha.

Game on!

When they advertised "Shark slide", they weren't kidding!

Arlo can't wait to try it out (good thing we got there early).

I guess it was fun!

And again...

... and again.

Fitting right in with the locals.

I guess Lucy doesn't remember doing this last year. But she's not shy.

It got busy quickly.

Taking matters into her own hand, and grabbing a bucket.

Wait a minute, I thought we were on the same team!

A good time was had by all.

Cooling down with some drinks from my cafe.

What good sharing.

If Songkran splashing weren't enough for one day, we're off (via subway!) to the old city, to see the famous temples!

For Arlo (and maybe Lucy?) getting to ride the Subway was the highlight of the trip!

First stop: Wat Pho, home of Thai Massage and the giant Reclining Buddha.

Browsing the stalls.

Who did the pose better?

Wondering who this guy is.

Building his own sand tower as part of the festival.

Family shot!

Banging the giant gong.

Arlo and Lucy's first time visiting the giant reclining Buddha.

The bottom of his feet; last time we were here, they were covered by scaffolding.

Arlo and Lucy both had fun making merit by dropping coins into each of these many, many bowls.

Next stop is across the river! Heading over to Wat Arun!

The longtail boats on the river were busy that afternoon.

On the ferry. They've increased the price from 3 baht to 5 baht!

The temple giants.

Selfie with m'girl (while Arlo and Dad look for a bathroom).

There's Jasmine!

It's hopping at Wat Arun, too; they've got a special Songkran festival going on as well.

Thrilled to be here for the first time.

Lucy's making lots of friends at eye level today.

Aww, cat!

A likeness?

On the ferry heading back to the main side of the city.

Stopping to explain the "transit map" of the river boats, before heading home.

Pizza for dinner after what was a very, very, very long day.

Fast asleep before she even made it to her bed.

Enjoying leftover pancakes for dinner, before heading out for another exciting day!

Today, we're at Khlong Lad Mayom floating market.

A display of fighting fish right at the entrance.

These two pint-sized Songkran revelers are standing on a bridge over the canal.

We're going to do a canal tour before it gets any hotter.

Patiently waiting for our boat to arrive.

And off we go!

Stopping at an orchid farm...

... I couldn't resist, and we brought one home.

And heading back to land.

Lunch time! So many things to try!

But uh oh, it's getting busy! Better head out soon.

Last stop: ice cream.

Look at how much this tourist bought!

Enjoying Songkran Day 2, by ourselves at home.

The new orchid, in its new home.

Oh, and as always, Arlo celebrates a month-a-versary during Songkran. This boy is closer to 5 than 4 now.

Never one to be left out, Lucy takes a tree photo too.

This girl lugged Uncle Josh's giant water gun over to the pool all by herself!

It must be Songkran; there's no one else in the pool!

Auntie Jas and Arlo are making French toast this morning for breakfast.

The two hard-working chefs, sitting down to enjoy their work.

Here we are in Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam.

And boy is it hot here!

Posing with the famous tree-enshrined buddha head.

Who's this photo bomber?

Woah! Blue-headed lizard - good eye, Jasmine!

They give out umbrellas now for all visitors to borrow while here.

Group shot, after which we all melted into puddles on the ground.

Arlo's doing it right.

Stopping for cold drinks at a cafe right outside the temple.

Taking one of the funny fish-shaped tuk tuks about 200m down the road to the next temple.

That was fun!

At Wat Ratcha Burana, which is different because you can climb and enter the stupa.

That's where we're headed.

The view from the top (and the breeze) is nice!

It was cool, but also smelled a little suspect...

... because of all these bats living in there too!

Great views, but time to head down and back under the umbrellas.

Lunch at our favorite riverside spot. We were last here in 2017, with Julia!

Everyone is hungry!

Greetings from Ayutthaya!

These two ate very well. Granted, they ate fries and sweet potato fries. But they did well!

On the river, before heading home!

Trying the famous Ayutthaya snacks: Grandma's Hair!

It's a hit!

Relaxing with some Sesame Street.

Jas and Josh are off -- by pickup -- to their cooking class!

Our guests have left for Kanchanaburi, but we still have one day of holiday left...

... and so we're off to IKEA!

Everyone seems to enjoy the train these days.

And a long walk along the elevated skywalk.

Arlo investigated every room in IKEA!

Checking out the shower...

... and lucy did her best Goldilocks.

Making themselves at home in the bedroom.

Wondering why the shark is alseep in bed.

Playing in the kids area.

And the best part: 8 baht ice cream, dispensed by machine!

Heading home, monkey in tow.

Arlo could probably stand there looking out the window all afternoon.

Late afternoon activity today is biking. We need to give Lucy's cold a rest and take a break from swimming.

These two are real liabilities at the playground now.

That sparkle in his eye suggests he's up to no good!

Lucy is really into trying to dress herself these days.

Close, Lucy!

A visit from Ba Ratt, who adores Arlo.

Sitting there, enjoying the light under the island.

Enjoying museli for breakfast, influenced by dad.

Chalk time.

And the travelers are back after their 2 Thailand roadtrip!

Here's Jasmine, trying her best to clothe a 2-year-old.