Bangkok Week 848

September 26, 2024

It was a busy and tiring weekend, with two playdates for each Arlo and Lucy. But we even got some swimming in, so I’d call it a success!

Hot on Arlo's heels, Lucy celebrates turning 2 1/2 today!

And shows off what a big girl she is by completing the monkey bars at Arlo's school.

Arlo's house...

... which he's defending against anyone and everyone who comes near. Which has led to issues.

"Playing in the garden" before Mum has to leave for work.

Happy that it's Friday afternoon!

And here come Mum & Arlo, heading home on a tuk-tuk.

Beautiful orchid!

Showing off the giraffe that took two days to complete.

Bubble beard!

Arlo's constructed a giant condo in the kitchen.

Swimming for Lucy. These days, she wants nothing to do with the lessons.

Arlo tends to bring too much energy, too.

Playdate with Arlo's friend Trins, and his younger sister Pim.

On Sunday morning, Arlo built a car, complete with dash cam.

Impromptu Sunday morning trip to Swensen's, to make use of our membership!

Arlo is enjoying his bubble gum...

... while Lucy is following in Mum and Granny Aki's footsteps, with Mint Chocolate Chip.

Sunday lunch with Arlo's classmate Aynur, and Lucy's classmate Amalia.

And despite everyone fatigue from the busy weekend, a dip in the pool on Sunday evening, too.

No TV dinners for these two, so Washing Machine dinner will have to suffice.

Enjoying the bubble bath!

Monday morning milk....

Starting the week off right.

Lotus in full bloom.

This pretty much sums up Lucy.

Heading home in the tuk tuk again.

Taking the annual family photos for Mum's visa renewal.

This year was the hardest of all. Here, Lucy said, "I do mad face!"

And in this bedroom shot, they both insisted on lying in the bed.

Are both children in this photo?

Arlo trying his hardest to block everyone else.

Picking up the monkey after school, post-wardrobe change.

Lounging around after a long day.

Lucky Arlo & Lucy: dad got special mint chocolate ice cream on a stick!

Is that where we read, Lucy?

Latest shot of the avocado.

More trampolining at Arlo's school.

The pirate ship is over on the nursery side now.

At school very early on Thursday morning for a meeting with Arlo's teacher, so they have the yard entirely to themselves!

Having fun in Lucy's room ... but where's Lucy!?

Meticulously drawing.

Lucy's masterpiece.

And practicing her modeling poses.

Entertained by the new socks for P.E.

See you next week!

Bangkok Week 847

September 19, 2024

The highlight of the week is that our big boy Arlo turned 5 this week! Happy birthday, Arlo! He got to celebrate with some of his favorite people, a sprinkle cake, and a trip to Happy & Healthy Bike Lane.

A big Friday morning swing to ring in the weekend.

And then back at home, it's quickly preparing for the big day tomorrow!

The finished product. He wanted a sprinkle cake, he's getting a sprinkle cake!

Mum's on point for Friday pick-up today; Arlo is kindly sharing his seaweed snack with Martin.

And a tuk tuk ride home, since the traffic is light (it's a St. Andrews day off).

The avocado seed is doing well!

Saying night night to P'Noi.

Posing with the (almost) full moon.

What a moon; what a cute couple.

Night night, Friday; and Arlo's last sleep as a 4-year-old.

Arlo is up bright and early (well, 7:30 as agreed) to celebrate his big day.

This is the gift he requested: a car with doors that open like bird wings.

Happy 5th birthday, big boy!

The birthday boy was keen to wake up his sister and show her his present.

Lucy's wondering why Arlo woke her up for this.

Team 25!

Arlo and Lucy also got sibling hedgehogs.

Finally getting around to breakfast.

Ba Wan gave Arlo a really special present: her stamp collection!

Arlo is too lucky.

Off to swimming for Mum & Lucy.

Meanwhile, Arlo and Dad build his new lego monster truck from Granny & Grandpa.

Done! Good job team!

Team 25 is taking tree photos before we forget.

5 years old and soon 120cm.

Lucy is really into tracing things right now.

Oh my! Lucky Arlo: P'Noi is here to help celebrate Arlo's birthday, too!

Happy Birthday, Arlo!

The candle-blowing pro!

He liked his cake! (Well, at least the top of it!

Not-quite-professional inside.

Lucy would be happy having this cake every day.

Arlo figured out the best way to eat the cake.

Celebrating with all his favorite people.

One last birthday gift...

... his own clock-on-a-strap.

Special birthday plan for Arlo, who fell asleep on the way.

Recognize where we are?

Back at Happy & Healthy Bike Lane.

Lucy headed right onto the pump track this time.

Carefully trying the narrow wooden course.

Lucy preferred the wide 'blue' track again this time.

We got lucky with the weather, too.

A special birthday treat for Arlo.

Good job, team!

And fries for dinner, before heading home.

The fun doesn't stop here. The next morning, it's Thai donuts for brekkie.

And Lucy's trying her hand at inflating the balloons.

Oh look! It seems our orchid is going to bloom again!

*Finally* getting around to planting the avocado seed.

And then it's a special lunch playdate with Aya and Doreen.

The biker gang.

Monday morning always comes so soon.

A new play area at school.

And a new car, too.

And then we're back at lunch time to celebrate Arlo's birthday with his class.

His classmates were really sweet; genuinely happy to be celebrating a birthday together.

Thank you for having us!

Meanwhile, Lucy's trying on her bling.

And a beautiful new dress from Ba Rat.

Lucy the gymnast, really into somersaults thanks to Teacher Irene.

This is Lucy "playing in the garden" with Mum before it's time to go in.

Time for a transformation!

Boom!

The orchid blooms are opening!

Enjoying the cupcake we saved for her.

Arlo's still thrilled with his new car with special doors.

Oh! The blooms are opening!

K. Noi made delicious Khao Soi for lunch. Super elaborate, and delicious!

And K. Wan brought a mountain of tiny bananas for this little banana monster.

This entitled little girl dictates what she will have for dessert every night.

Banana for breakfast!

Look at the orchid!

Lucy's keen to play the guitar.

With a supervisor.

New bubble bath!

Until next time, thank you for coming!

Bangkok Week 846

September 12, 2024

Arlo and Lucy run in their first ever race. We have a lovely Sunday brunch with old friends Sally & Douglas. And an unprecedented 3 cactuses bloomed on the same day! Quick — buy lottery tickets!

It's Friday, but today only Arlo is at school, while Lucy is home recovering from a high fever.

Nothing like a bathtub bath to cheer everyone up.

Lucy has figured out that she can lie down in the tub.

And it's the (early) morning we've been waiting for: The Rainbow Room Fun Run.

It's an annual fundraiser for the Rainbow Room Foundation: a Neurodiversity Awareness Center.

And the best part? Ice cream for breakfast!

There was a short puppet show...

... before the 50m fun-run race commenced!

The first heat was Lucy's... but it turned into Dad's!

Run run run, team Dad + Lucy!

Next up, the 5+ group.

A bit late out of the gate, but not slow.

There goes flying Arlo!

The St. Andrews' house mascots came to cheer on the crowds.

Lucy really liked this bunny.

Saying hi to all the animals and superheroes.

Lucy was quite obsessed with this bear, who kindly gave her a hug before we left for home.

It was an early start to the day, so we still have a whole morning at home.

Basketball and running races for Lucy.

And Arlo still had enough energy for his swimming.

Woah! Look at that!

Not one, not two, but THREE cactus blooms all in one day! What are the odds?

Reading a new Elephant & Piggie book.

Sunday lunch at Sally & Douglas's house.

Arlo couldn't believe there was chocolate chip bread for lunch.

They'd also never seen a record player before.

And a quick dip in the pool.

Douglas read the group a story before we left for home.

And Lucy got a cool new t-shirt upgrade from Teacher Sara!

Arlo got an early birthday present from Sally & Douglas, so we had to come home and assemble it right away!

Here it is!

It's a dinner picnic.

Monday, and Lucy is feeling herself again and back at school.

Lucy... that looks awfully like a stamp on your face!

Arlo made this beautiful heart at school.

Fascinated with the tennis games behind the house...

... and checking out wha the coach is wearing, for inspiration for her daily dress.

Lucy is firmly part of the morning swing club at Arlo's school.

These two enjoy having fun with the big kids before heading back to nursery.

Football with the Year 1's.

The vegetarian festival is coming!

Another bathtub bath... on a school night!

More fun at Arlo's school in the morning.

The car is in for it's 1-year (!) checkup!

Driveway art with Dad.

See you next week!

Bangkok Week 845

September 5, 2024

Everyone’s settling into their new routines now, with school, swimming, and even the weekend park.

It's Friday, and we have an early morning meeting with Lucy's teacher. So she's showing Arlo the ropes at her school for once.

Running around in the nursery garden before the little kids show up.

Saturday morning in the moo baan, looking at Arlo's favorite plants. (The kind that fold up when you touch them.)

Who's a charmer?

Waiting patiently before swimming.

Lucy's a pro at jumping through the hoop now.

Her new favorite pose, post-Taipei.

And now it's Arlo's turn to swim. These chips seemed to have given him a power boost!

And then an afternoon visit from Auntie June.

And a night out for Mum & Dad. The first in ~two years?

These two monkeys were mesmerized by videos of Arlo swimming.

Pretty entertaining!

And then it was off to the park for the second weekend in a row.

Breaking in our run shirts before next weekend.

Lots of fun in the slides this time (in addition to the swings).

And tandem see-sawing.

Stopping on the way out to watch the volleyball.

Big orangutan hug!

And the red carpet premier of Dad's Taiwan video.

Off to the pool for the first time in ages. Perhaps the first time since Granny & Grandpa left!?!

Fun!

And special dinner of nachos...

... and quesedillas.

Pooped from the day! (And the running around the island.)

Group bedtime stories.

The island is finally being used as a bar! Breakfast is served.

Speaking of breakfast, Arlo is preparing a very radioactive one.

Enjoy your special soup!

Lucy loves to mimic the big kids every morning.

Uh oh, Lucy! Why so blue?

One of Arlo's favorite toys lately - diaper boxes!

I guess Lucy won't outgrow her crib anytime soon.

Sleeping too deeply to rouse in the morning.

Uh oh, Lucy! I thought those dot markers were for paper!

Arlo's first day of football this year.

He still enjoys it.

And it's always a good morning when the tennis players are out.

Driving his friends around.

Why play at the nursery when you can play on the other side?

When Lucy does finally arrive at nursery, her friends are waiting.

Bangkok Week 844

August 29, 2024

We’re settling into our new groove this week! Lucy has made herself at home at school and is loving it. Arlo is enjoying his new class and his new teacher. And we’re even up-to-date with our swimming lessons. It’s been a busy August; September, here we come!

Happy Friday, from the boy with the mohawk.

Lucy still enjoys hanging out at Arlo's school to start the day.

Did someone get Oreos as an after-school snack?

These two are supposed to be paying respect to Buddha, but it looks like they're having too much fun.

A rainy Saturday morning!

So Uncle Andrew had to borrow clothes from Dad, when he arrived soaked.

He didn't know that he was coming for board game morning!

More swimming for Lucy.

Sorting through the box of swim gear. What don't we need in here anymore?

Bye bye, Uncle Andrew!

A reward for a good swimming lesson.

Mum's long-overdue afternoon project: planting all the baby cactuses!

Enjoying a vegan fillet-o-fish for dinner.

And for Sunday breakfast, Arlo's having the rice porridge that he usually enjoys with Puu and Yaa.

It's a morning at the park. We've not been since we went with Granny & Grandpa last month.

Arlo spent much of the time hunting for "treasures" (like this giant bean) to bring home.

Whereas Lucy really enjoyed the slides, swings, and jungle gym.

A small humorous diversion after getting home: monkey Arlo locked himself inside this giant bag and had to be cut out.

And then Mum & Lucy head off to (our final make-up) swimming by tuk-tuk.

Late evening bubbles on the balcony.

Captured mid-bite.

Back to school on Monday.

Teacher Preeti says Lucy's totally comfortable at school now.

An impulse haircut!

Including the back -- finally! Hopefully this will help strengthen her hair.

Showing off her new 'do.

Arlo drew a great replica of his robot!

Unclear why Lucy is pinching her eyelid closed.

Uh oh! Lucy simply wasn't ready to wake up for school this morning.

Exploring a new toy that dad brought home for work.

A good idea in concept, but the execution could be better.

Oh! Stanley's making an appearance after a long hiatus.

Playing with the dump truck...

... and using the climbing apparatus in the swing's absence (while it dries from last night's rainstorm).

Someone's getting good swinging by her strong arms.

Coming home by tuk-tuk! How exciting!

Arlo drew some great photos of airplanes: a Concorde, and another with an ANA tail.

And Lucy is very proud of her foot tracing.

Bangkok Week 843

August 22, 2024

Arlo turns 4 years and 11 months; Lucy turns 2 years and 5 months; and both of them go (back) to school! It was an emotional start to a new chapter for Lucy, but she’s settling into school commendably. And Arlo is taking to K2 and his new teacher like a pro! Here’s to a good year ahead!

Arlo turned 4 years and 11 months while we were in Taipei. So here's a slightly-belated tree photo.

His sister wanted to bring bear along for the photo shoot, too.

Happy to be home, and itching to paint.

Exercising her monkey genes.

Assessing the avocado's growth while we were away. (Pretty impressive!)

Mother's Day also took place while we were away. And what a lovely surprise -- Sunday morning Krispy Kreme upon return.

Lucy still has a few make-up swim lessons to work through.

Improving her solo back float.

Comparing a real loonie with a chocolate loonie.

Bathtub bath!

Lucy is ready for her first day at school (with Mum & Dad). She's asked to wear her "rainbow shirt" and "rainbow pants".

Two hedgehogs having pre-school breakfast in their golf carts.

Waiting patiently.

The beautiful new nursery is ready to welcome students.

Arlo's spotted a butterfly!

Lucy's exploring all over her new school.

These rings moved from the old nursery campus.

Meeting one of the nannies, who's helping Lucy make a magic wand.

And the pioneers are exploring the toys in Lucy's classroom.

Decorating rocks.

And having her face painted.

The bubbly fish tank in the dark room.

Then we went to visit Arlo's new classroom, on the older side of the road.

Lucy's admiring her face paint in the mirror.

Playing with the toys in Arlo's class.

Wow! Scissors on Day 1!? School is great!

Cupcake cheers.

Back at the nursery, Arlo is digging around in the new sand pit.

Arlo and his buddy, Nemo, are playing in the little kids' sand pit and admiring the floor beneath.

First (full) day of school photo for Lucy...

... and for Arlo!

And now it's the first *real* day of school.

First day of school photo!

Here we go, Lucy!

Have fun, Lucy!

It was a good, but emotional, first day away from home for Lucy. And she also turned 2 years and 5 months old!

Dad ordered a new memory foam topper for the mattress, which Lucy really likes!

This duck slide has been revived, and it's providing renewed breakfast entertainment.

Lucy has quickly become a member of the swing club, at Arlo's school.

Working in the guest room, while Mum & Dad work in the office.

Arlo drew a great illustration of the avocado seedling at school today!

Late evening water fight.

Lucy's face says it all.

Another morning meeting of the swing club.

Arlo spotted a tiny snail.

Lucy's favorite part of school might be the snacks on the way home.

A beautiful cactus bloom.

Late evening swing with milk.

And we end this week with a very whacky hairdo! See you soon!

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!

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