Bangkok Week 862

January 2, 2025

Happy 2025! It was another very busy week, as we wind down our year-end holidays. Arlo finished his Lego masterpiece; we had play-dates and get-togethers with 5 families; went to the park, Happy & Healthy Bike Lane; and celebrated the new year with glow sticks and sparklers. Bring it on, 2025!

Welcome back, from our little narwhal.

Lucy's showing how she can get dressed all by herself. And she's very proud!

Arlo's steadily working away at his Lego fire station!

He built this huge, colorful castle while we were out.

Arlo and Lucy got sweet Christmas cards in the mail from their teachers! How lovely.

It's coming together!

Come hell or high waters, he will finish this fire station today!

Done! What an impressive feat by Arlo!

The finished project!

Taking a break for some physical activity.

Evening hugs (tackles) for Granny & Grandpa.

Lucy wanted to try on her (new) outfit for tomorrow the night before. Dressed herself, of course.

Getting a head-start on the Learning Journeys, having learned the hard way in past years.

Lucy the monkey, was very proud of herself. "Like a swing!"

Enjoying the winter air at the playground.

Lucy was massaging Arlo's face.

And drawing with chalk, while waiting for Nimo to arrive.

Great stomp rocket action shot.

Here's Nimo, for a long-overdue playdate.

Lots of board games!

And of course, some stomp rocket fun.

Arlo was eager to sort through the seashells we brought back from Rayong.

And then he turned (a small subset of) them into Shell People.

Proudly showing his art to Dad.

The two cat ladies.

Enjoying a "Mexican" dinner for a change.

It's Saturday! That means it's movie night!

Arlo wanted Joke for breakfast, so Joke he got!

Time for another exciting playdate: with P'It, P'Ut, and P'Kate.

They like to play (board) games, too.

And trying the stomp rocket, of course.

Hungry appetites after all that playing.

Hanging around at the playground.

All the children together - how many monkeys can you fit into one photo?

I think it's been 5 years since this group was last together!

Arlo is impressed by P'It's Rubik's Cube skillz.

And trying our newest game, Cat Taco Goat Cheese Pizza.

And Pigs in Pants.

Winding down the busy day with a visit to Makro.

Thank you for the delicious dinner, Granny!

Tumbling backward into Monday.

Lucy's really into puzzles to start her day.

New outfit. "Like P'Kate!"

Uh oh! Aphids galore!

Expert breakfast-eater.

Everyone enjoying watermelon.

Concentrating on peeling his orange.

Trying the "water blast treatment" to get rid of the aphids from the avocado.

And how timely; here's a lady bug to help.

And observing how the water pools on the leaf.

Dad, Granny, and Arlo went to Dasa Book, and came home with quite the haul!

Enjoying the last of the cookies from Nimo and his mum.

Someone getting ready for the New Years' Eve bonanza.

Inspired by Christmas gift-giving (maybe?) Arlo wrapped this toy all by himself, and labeled it for Mum & Dad.

Happy New Years' Eve! Last morning of the year!

Soon Lucy, you'll have outgrown that step.

No better way to spend the last morning (with lovely weather, no less) than at the park.

No free ride for Granny!

Look at this monkey.

Lucy needs a turn, too!

Sliding together, "like at the waterslide" in Rayong.

Another monkey...

... who's surprisingly strong!

Perched on top of the tunnel, of course.

And saying good-bye to 2024 with a healthy dose of ice cream!

Yum, Swensens!

This boy loves his bubble gum!

Bottoms-up, Lucy!

Hard at work on a very detailed truck drawing.

It's actually a two-page compilation. Beep, Boom!

Playing his newest board game with Grandpa.

Grandpa approves, even though Arlo wins!

And closing down the year with a neighborhood party.

The Last Supper :)

This crazy driver monopolized Thomas & Nancy's car.

The sun sets on 2024.

Disco at Clementine's house.

And sparklers! Wow!

Lucy doesn't know what to think!

Arlo tried writing with his. So cool!

Winding down before bed; bye bye 2024!

Here it is: 2025! And we're off to a rolling start!

More cards with Grandpa...

... and this one is keeping busy, too.

Off altogether via tuk tuk...

... to brunch at Holey Mothership.

Another detailed truck drawing for Arlo while he waits for lunch to come.

Bon appetit!

Neutral (?) about Turkish Eggs.

Peace to the new year!

Heading home...

... and waiting to see the garbage men (whom we just saw at Holey, too).

Since the Legos weren't challenging enough, starting the micro bricks.

And helping dad with the car tires.

Arlo took full responsibility for the tires, and they turned out great!

And we're celebrating 2025 with a trip to our favorite...

... Happy & Healthy Bike Lane!

Arlo wanted to only use the balance bike again.

And Lucy is getting quite advanced with her balance bike skills, holding her feet in the air for extended periods now. (Or resting them on the bike frame, and saying she's "pedaling".)

Although Lucy took comfort in knowing where Arlo was...

... she was often on her own, as Arlo zoomed ahead and lapped her!

Lining up together to take off downhill, before the track is too crowded.

Using the two-foot tandem technique.

Holding her own.

"Pedaling."

Two speedsters.

Trying out the "Adventure Park".

This one is taking a break with Granny...

... while this one enjoys his offroader.

Somehow, the track is still empty!

Here she comes!

Heading off into the sunset.

This guy is showing off his advanced skillz!

Refueling with fries and smoothies (everyone enjoying Granny's) before heading home.

Look at this toilet-trained warrior!

Beautiful first sunset of 2025.

Dad on Lucy wake-up duty this morning, and she suckered him into reading a book.

Taking matters into her own hands, since Mum & Dad keep forgetting to pump the tires.

Lunch with Alba, Ines, and their family! What a treat to see them while they're visiting from Spain.

Lucy & Ines got on well, even though they don't remember each other.

It was impossible to get a single good shot of all 4 together. But we did get *LOTS* of funny outtakes. Enjoy.

Enjoying quiet time with some concentration.

And closing off a busy day with a play date & car wash with Thomas and Nancy.

These two boys independently "cleaned" Chris's car really well.

Meanwhile, the ladies looked at the cats...

... and played with the dolls.

Lucy came over to help the boys, ultimately.

Done! Time to clean up shop, and see you next week!

Bangkok week 861

December 26, 2024

This week had it all! We spent 3.5 fun days in Rayong, and then came back to Bangkok in time to celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Merry Christmas, everyone! 🎄🎅🎁

Welcome back, from goofball Lucy...

... who also turns 2 years and 9 months old today!

Here's another goofball, trying on this orange net for size.

Enjoying the last slices of Grandpa's birthday cake together.

And we're off to Rayong! Lucy is happy at this rest stop.

And Arlo is inspecting the bugs in this bromeliad.

Here we are at everyone's favorite hotel! Welcome drinks for all.

The hotel is all decked out for Christmas. Check out this gingerbread house in the lobby.

"Why this fish is sad?" Lucy asked.

And here's the fish. Indeed, it looks like he's having a sad day.

A visit to the Kids Club while waiting for the sun to pass its peak.

Lucy's workin the kitchen today.

Food's up!

Lucy, have some decency!

Arlo's reuniting with his friends, the rabbits.

And here's Lucy's favorite activity...

... swinging!

And they tried this old-fashioned see-saw for the first time this visit.

Grandpa helped make it fun!

And a really nice treat from Grandpa: Guss Damn Good ice cream for all!

Arlo discovered that there's an even larger gingerbread house in the main restaurant! Wowza!

Strong Granny braved the pool with Arlo & Lucy.

Brr! Purple lips upon entry.

Granny also took Arlo & Lucy down the waterslide for the innaugural slide.

One time for Grandpa, too.

Thank you, Granny, for taking the plunge...

... so that Mum & Dad can stay nice and dry on the shore.

Here come the Arlo+Grandpa duo, riding the slide like a luge track.

Onto the beach for a beautiful sunset.

This became Lucy's swing for the weekend.

Playing in the sand; Lucy's clearly gotten lots of practice at school since last visit!

Arlo really enjoyed playing in the waves and the sea.

Beautiful sunset!

Arlo enjoyed collecting seaweed this trip, too.

Group shot!

Sunset shot, take one.

Trying to get one good shot with my children...

... we'll have to settle with this one for now.

Knocked over by the wave!

They really enjoyed playing in the ocean this time.

Family shot.

Look at this cute burrito with purple lips.

Watching the sunset and her brother, from her favorite place: a swing.

Sun down on our first day in Rayong.

Dinner in the bar tonight...

... means it's a great opportunity for Lucy & Arlo to learn foosball.

What a tiring day. Ready to crash.

Up bright and early for brekkie the next morning, after a rough night in bed. (Everyone in the same bed, to be clear.)

Pancakes, whipping cream, and sprinkles: breakfast of champions.

Someone learned from her brother yesterday, and wanted to walk along the stones in the lobby.

Tried to get a Christmas photo in front of the tree. Here's where we landed.

Playing on the obstacle course in the garden.

They had a fun new scoreboard at the football field. And look: the score is Arlo!

An early-morning beachside swing for Lucy, while it's still shaded.

She's not sure if riding on Grandpa is an improvement or not.

King of the morning seaside.

Checking out all the newly-exposed seashells.

The seashell search team.

Lucy enjoyed the ocean, too.

Arlo, wandering off on his own, looking at shells and the waves.

Checking out the crab holes, and tiny crab balls.

Inadvertent yoga move while running from the waves.

Children of the sea.

And of course, someone required a ride back to the hotel building.

Our destination for the morning: Rayong Botanical Garden.

It was even cooler and dryer than when we went in late-May.

Arlo was a great sport, and did the whole 3.5-km walk. Also, despite not feeling 100% that day.

Wefie with the lotuses.

Walking through tall, thick (but slightly manicured) jungle.

Arlo remembered well that this path was flooded when we were here in May.

Made it to the "Rak Samet" bridge.

Arlo enjoyed this bridge again, and was excited to see the kayaks pass underneath.

A sign board about mushrooms! There must be mushrooms around here somewhere.

Walking to an area we'd not visited on the previous trip: the paperbark trees.

It was really very picturesque!

Lucy tried her hardest, too, and did do a bit of walking.

But much of the walk for Lucy looked like this, if not strapped to Mum.

What we walked all this way to see.

And here they are! Carnivorous pitcher plants!

Another kind, growing along the ground.

To the extent that he still had attention to give, Arlo was very interested.

Arlo the mushroom-spotter also found several mushrooms.

Back at the start, and enjoying a well-earned ice cream from a passing Walls cart.

And chillaxing back at the hotel with the Helpsters.

Mid-afternoon dip with Dad and Grandpa -- the brave ones today.

And a few more rounds on the water slide for Arlo (and his luge sled).

Dad, Lucy, and Granny checked out the kids pool area for an oh-so-fleeting moment.

But, rather sensibly, she'd rather sit in the shade and eat cookies.

After trekking half way around the hotel in the hot sun, a few promised runs on the slide to cool off.

And no trip to Rayong Marriott is complete without a swim "with" the fish.

It's almost sunset again; that means it's time for Lucy's beachside swing.

Lucy means business. (Construction business.)

This was *her* swing as far as she was concerned.

Beautiful sunset for Lucy and the grandparents.

Truly an infinity pool here! (With a yacht!)

Dad thought Lucy & Mum were matching. Yes?

This morning, the score is in Lucy's favor!

Another early-morning visit to the beach.

Taking in the calming ocean vibes.

Still at home.

Playing football on the sand with Dad.

Lucy's happy place!

Express trip back.

Checking out and sorting the haul for the morning.

We're heading out for a morning trip, and Lucy's still the score!

At Thung Prong Thong mangrove forest, taking a boat tour of the mangroves.

This is apparently the largest mangrove forest in Rayong.

Great view out the front of the boat.

And we've made it to the open waters.

These birds perched peacefully atop the sticks that break the waves.

These two enjoyed being out in the ocean.

Our resident comic, asked to give a smile. This is Option 1.

And Option 2.

Nice peaceful mangroves...

... with huge communities of sleeping bats!

There were many of them; and they were huge!

Getting out of the boat to walk along the boardwalk for a while.

Look at the roots, and how tall the plants are!

Posing for his Learning Journey.

And a photo for Lucy, too, who was very particular about when she wanted to walk or not.

Heading up to the top of the observation tower.

Beautiful views.

But the railing was dangerously open for Lucy. (And oddly short for anyone taller than Arlo.)

Checking out the "Shinkansen fish with a light at the end of the nose".

Here are said needlefish.

And how the mangroves replicate.

Some Instagrammable photos on our way out.

Mangroves!

And riding in the side car of a motorcycle back to the parking lot. Definitely the highlight of Arlo's day.

Lunch at one of our two "go-to" places in Klaeng.

The head of the table, and she knows it.

They both ordered pink milk. Yummy yum!

"Oh! Ducks!"

Enjoy the feast!

Splurging on a bag of fish food after we finished our meal. (Time to fatten up the fish.)

Look at that momma catfish!

Back at the hotel, poor Granny was trying to rest.

Another afternoon of swings. Lucy's fave!

Perhaps she'll become a trapeze artist.

And having a good time on the traditional see-saw.

"Why I so high?"

An ambitious endeavour: teaching Arlo (and Lucy) how to play pool.

One last dip in the pool, and the requisite hotel shot.

And here's Arlo with purple lips...

... and Lucy with purple lips.

Smile, Lucy!

The cold burrito enjoying himself.

Time for one last splash in the ocean at sunset.

Beautiful colors, Arlo.

Poor Dad, there's no letting go now.

Searching for the tiny little crabs again.

One last sunset shot: better luck than the first evening!

Our last beach sunset for 2024.

Here's our little comic, entertaining over breakfast again.

(That's more like it, Lucy.)

Last hotel brekkie!

Arlo wanted to take a photo with the giant Santa set up outside the lobby.

Lucy and Granny headed to the giant swings for one last go-round...

...while we headed to the beach.

Arlo can't help himself; he needs to head into the water, swimsuit or not.

Arlo, that's awfully deep for normal clothes!

Our winning sibling shot for the trip!

And our winning family photo.

Happily skipping along the beach.

Checking out our shell haul for the morning...

... the unicorn horns were the focus.

Arlo was making a mushroom out of shells, but later decided it was actually an umbrella.

Surprise treat on our way out: Arlo's new car!

Back to Bangkok in time for Christmas Eve dinner: Indian food, that is.

And it looks like Santa has come, so we're all set for tomorrow morning!

Merry Christmas! Arlo is up early, and the first one downstairs.

Oh my! Santa brought the Tesla Cyber Truck that he asked for!

Genuinely happy! (Bonus that all the doors, the trunk, and the hood can open!)

And what did Santa bring for Lucy?

The airplane she asked for!

Looks like it's a Thai Airways 777-300, the same plane Lucy flew to and from Tokyo.

Arlo can't help but "help" Lucy open her gifts.

It's a beading kit!

Everyone, let's get beading!

Lucy has enlisted Granny's help to open this one.

Teamwork!

Giant Tokyo metro puzzle for Grandpa! (Only 1000 pieces; a breeze.)

And a new 2025 wall calendar for G&G.

Wasting no time playing Lucy's new board game.

Hey, Granny got the thermos she was looking for!

Merry Christmas, P'Noi!

(Now, come bead with us!)

Uh oh! Arlo's decided to start working on the 843-piece Lego fire station from Granny & Grandpa.

Learning how to read the instruction booklet...

... and he's off!

Oh! There's one more unopened gift.

A stomp rocket!

It's an instant hit!

Mum couldn't resist trying... for the first, and last time.

Lucy modeling her new Moo Deng shirt. Stylish!

And trying Arlo's new board game -- Ticket to Ride.

Arlo's already completed his Lego fire truck, so he's using it to rescue people from the burning house.

Going for a late-afternoon Christmas walk/bike.

Lucy is getting very confident on the monkey bars now.

"I don't need help!" she makes clear. And can get herself down.

Merry Christmas from this duo.

The peanut gallery.

The completed fire engine, plus a veterinarian offering cookies... as they do.

Christmas feast of sushi for all.

Pulling the Christmas crackers with all his might. It's the first time to have the loud ones.

The three Christmas queens.

And here's Lucy, showing off her new penguin pajamas. She loves 'em!

This guy's up early to play with the fire engine that he built yesterday.

And completing three large puzzles. Cause why not?

Arlo got his first, very own bank book!

And a boxing day dip. Brrr!

Little Miss Blue Lips didn't last very long.

The shivering duo.

Wrapping up this busy week with our evening dance. See you next time!

Bangkok Week 860

December 19, 2024

The day has arrived. The moment has come. It’s the annual Christmas Show at school! And what a show it was! We also had our last swimming lessons of the year; a nice cycle around Rot Fai park; Grandpa’s birthday; and lots of Christmas cookies.

It's the day we've all been waiting for -- the Christmas show!

Everyone is up early to head to school early and ensure we get a parking spot.

One small problem: it's pouring rain!

After a short rain delay... the show must go on!

The famed grandparents' seats: Granny & Grandpa got the best seats in the house!

Meanwhile, back stage...

... the kids are waiting patiently, and getting into their holiday best!

The nursery kids especially were great sports.

Waiting patiently for the show of their lives.

Arlo's class was the second performance: a ballet "March March March".

Hey, that looks somewhat coordinated.

After waiting patiently, Lucy & class performed "The Winter Hokey Pokey".

And here's Lucy's (now infamous) performance stance.

What's that I see? A little smile?

And a jump! Someone turned Lucy on for the final seconds of the dance.

Bravo to the Buttercups, Teacher Preeti, and P'Kattie.

And the dance we've all been waiting for: I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas!

If nothing else, the costumes win for best dressed.

Teacher says a hippo is a vegetarian!

Way to go, Lilies! The cutest hippos in Thailand (no offense, Moo Deng).

Waiting for the full-school grand finale.

A decent rendition of "Silent Night".

And here's the famous Annabel's snow! Falls every year, without fail!

And every year without fail, Arlo doesn't like it!

Lucky Lilies though: they're the only ones who got the snow this year.

Lucy and her nursery classmates were very intrigued.

Trins and Arlo, trying to run away.

And a quick pic with Santa, before the patience runs out.

Merry Christmas!

No sign of rain by the time the show was over.

Time for lunch!

Lucy's doing really well for her first Christmas show.

Showing her nursery classmates around the big campus.

Christmas photo with Arlo's favorite Teacher Selly.

Cooling off after a busy, intense morning.

And rounding off the first term of the school year with a healthy serving of Christmas cookies.

These two will sleep well tonight!

Saturday morning monster truck rally.

Oh! Lucky Lucy is being roused by Granny this morning.

Grandpa's getting rid of a stash of old coins. (And true to form, Arlo's trying to hoard them all.)

Lucy has an audience for her last swimming lesson of the year.

Teaching Grandpa new games.

Someone turns 5 years and 3 months old today!

And so someone else needs to take a tree photo, too!

Back to Baby Pool for Arlo's lesson this time.

Closing out the year with Teacher JA, instead of Teacher Big.

Waiting patiently for the Tuk Tuk home.

Granny enjoying her afternoon "quiet time".

Saturday evening "movie night" with Granny & Grandpa. Look at them, staying awake for it!

Special Sunday morning excursion to celebrate the start of the holidays: biking at Rot Fai park!

We haven't been here since the peak of the summer heat.

Lucy still enjoys riding in the back.

First stop: the playground and exercise equipment.

So many different pieces of exercise equipment to try!

And then a few rounds on the slide.

Next stop: the butterfly garden! Arlo thinks he's found Shin Shin.

There were lots of beautiful butterflies and moths out and about this time.

And detective Arlo brought his magnifying glass to look at them all.

This one even landed on Mum's head. (Look at all the grey, it said.)

Group shot in the butterfly house.

Lucy liked the different flowers.

This blue beauty was hanging around *outside* the house.

And continuing along.

Next stop: Cycle City (which was under repair last time we were here.)

And Lucy insisted on swinging at the playground just next door.

Arlo's just tall enough to use this balance beam.

Back at home, Arlo covertly took this photo of his sister.

Naptime story time with Granny.

More Genius Square with Grandpa...

... and then teaching his grandparents how to play Rhino Hero.

That's a tall one!

Pizza dinner!

Up early for the first Monday of their holiday break.

Arlo kindly let Lucy play in his room.

Not only is it Monday... but it's also Grandpa's birthday.

So here's Arlo, making a Shinkansen card for him.

The finished card (it's double-sided).

Lucy brought Granny to the pool, to watch Mum do her laps.

Grandpa's festive birthday cake.

Happy Birthday, Grandpa!

Deeply concerned by the candles, but Lucy stayed in her seat this time.

What a color!

Lucy, too!

Grandpa and his colorful grandchildren.

Celebrating Grandpa's birthday with an afternoon swim.

All was suspiciously quiet upstairs while the adults dined: this was the scene.

Working on "The Christmas Pig."

Oh, good thing Arlo found his reading glasses.

Saying hi to the koi in the mall next to the US Embassy, before renewing Arlo's passport.

My impulse buy at the Tops there: Moo Deng elephant pants!

Lucy's learning to charm (a story in 4 parts).

And then a holiday visit from Baa Rat.

Enjoying the leftover birthday cake.

It may be days old, but it still stains as well as on Day 1.

Bangkok Week 859

December 12, 2024

The week is spent in anticipation of Granny & Grandpa’s arrival. But first, a lovely Christmas lunch with Arlo’s closest school friends at Martin’s house. And lots of colorful Christmas cookies, for the staff & teachers at school.

Lucy is happy to have the entire garden to herself, since we're there so early.

Crazy swing!

Enjoying the entire bag of seaweed on the way home.

Someone was so tired that he fell asleep in the tuk-tuk on the way home.

The mischief duo, sharing a chair at dinner.

Saturday morning swimming: Lucy is planing her own lesson.

Somehow, she's very speedy on her back.

Now it's time to make our Christmas cookies. Look at all the helpers!

"Measuring" the flour...

... and ensuring that there's no question that these are holiday cookies!

My little helper, putting the sprinkles on top.

And checking on the oven.

Looking good in there!

Christmas cookies for all!

And checking out a neighborhood baking goods store, to pick up packaging for the cookies.

Watching our "new" TV.

Inaugural Saturday movie night!

A Christmas classic!

Getting into the Christmas spirit.

Huh. Playing board games together.

The party Arlo's been waiting for: Christmas lunch at Martin's house.

Leg massage for Dad.

Checking out some of Martin's many car collections.

Their dog, Aubrey, was enjoying the party too.

Pileup of the boy's gang.

Height check-in. Actually Martin and Trins are quite tall, too.

Martin has a lovely playroom on the 4th floor of his house, too.

Practicing fine motor skills...

... and gross motor skills needed for every good monkey.

Lunch time.

Trying the impossible: a photo of all 6 kids.

Time for some arts & crafts.

And then time for the raffle gift exchange: Arlo volunteered to draw first, since he's the oldest.

He won a very cool book from Trins.

And Lucy picked...

... the gift from P'Boss.

Lucy showing off her piano skills.

Most successful group shot! (Minus one person, who really didn't want to be in the photo.)

Everyone! Thanks for having us!

Back at home and exhausted after a very stimulating morning & afternoon.

So tired, in fact, that she didn't even make it to her bed.

Embracing the holiday spirit, and off to school with her antlers.

Breaking news! Stop the presses! Shin shin came out of his cocoon over the weekend!

Here he is, homely little guy. His glory days are definitely behind him.

Making more ornaments at the start of the day.

Checking out the stage for the Christmas show, which went up over the weekend.

Zoom zoom!

Lots going on here! A bike race, and a basketball game.

Trying to hula hoop.

Reindeer and her horse.

Someone had fun doing water play after school.

Arlo, Trins, Fuku, and Seoyun made a volcano together, and made sure it wouldn't get taken down overnight.

Very keen on practicing his writing.

And drawing a picture for Teacher Selly, to include with her holiday cookies.

This kool kat is ready for another day.

Whoops, that volcano didn't last long!

Road trip!

Saying hi to Flip & Flop before heading home.

Special day! Going back via tuk-tuk.

(Many angles of) purple lips after swimming in the chilly pool!

Going on a morning drive.

Painting while riding a bike.

It was a surprisingly precise painting though!

Another critter at school.

Lucy hanging up the special ornament she made at school this year. Her first contribution to the tree!

Checking in on Granny & Grandpa's flight before bedtime.

The (tall) boys of Annabel's.

Working on their Christmas tree.

Enjoying the nice winter weather!

Here they are!! Our VIP guests!

But... someone is shy!

Not sure how to react.

Better to run around with Patton instead.

Showing Granny her learning journey. What are we going to add this holiday break?

And time to pick up monkey #2.

Shy and excited at the same time! (And eager to show off the beautiful calendar that he & his classmates made together.)

Arlo putting his own special ornament on the tree.

Welcome dinner.

And slowly warming up... to be continued!

Bangkok Week 858

December 5, 2024

A very special week, with a visit from Puu; a Christmas fair; Lucy’s first cycle at Nong Bon park; and the Father’s Day holiday on Thursday. On, and we got a “new” TV!

Welcome back! It's Funny Face Friday!

Thank you for sharing your chair, Lucy. Very kind of you.

There goes Lucy with her best friend.

Long-awaited visit from Puu, who's here for his annual eye check-up.

Lucy and Arlo were thrilled.

Nice smile!

Wasting no time on Saturday morning.

Enjoying their traditional congee breakfast with Puu.

And showing Puu all the plants in the back yard.

Farewell photos.

(Lucy wanted to do it her way, not sit on Puu's knee.)

And a hasty good-bye at the bus terminal, since we were very tight on time.

Bye bye, Puu.

Safe drive!

Enjoying some pick-me-up ice cream at 9:30am.

Back at home, trying on his Halloween eyeball for size.

It's finally time! Time to ring in the holiday season and put up the decorations!

Arlo is now a pro at decorating the tree.

And he finally understands that you need to look high and low, not just left and right.

Happy Holidays!

This little monkey had a tiny yellow bruise on her forehead -- which clearly called for a bandaid!

Wakey-wakey sleepy head! Time to get going!

We're off to the Bangkok Prep Christmas fair!

We arrived just in time to see Aya's sister, Doreen, perform.

So many children! Such a big school!

The crazy bull had Arlo entertained.

But this one was more their speed.

Driving the little train, first two cars of course.

It went around many times; they got their money's worth.

Popcorn break.

(Lucy's serious about her popcorn: no eating and walking, let's sit and enjoy it.)

Arlo saw a friend from school doing the wipe out, so he wanted to try too.

We ran into neighbor Yuri, so Arlo and Yuri went in together.

And ice cream cones to celebrate surviving their wipeout.

Time to relax; it was very overwhelming!

Lucy really enjoyed all the giant bubbles.

And so did neighbor Artem.

Back at home after a long afternoon, enjoying our Christmas lights.

Good job, team! It's a nice tree.

Bedtime story on the floor.

Heading to Nong Bon park for a bike ride on Sunday morning.

It's Lucy's first time biking by herself here.

There was lots of stopping-and-starting along the the journey.

And lots of beautiful birds out enjoying the nice weather too.

There goes Arlo on his off-roader (zooming).

And here come Lucy & Dad.

Lucy spotted one of Granny's friends high up in a tree. "Squirrel! Squirrel!"

Arlo pointing out that we made it all the way to the end of the Isthmus (or is it a peninsula?)

Sitting and waiting for Lucy & Dad...

... who were actually sitting and waiting for us to come back!

Stopping for snacks before heading back.

This bird has a particularly long neck!

The helmet gang, walking back. Lucy didn't quite have the energy (or rather, attention span) to bike the whole way back.

A giant friend of Granny's hiding in this tree.

It's also December 1st, and this marks the start of the advent calendars (from London).

A chocolate gingerbread man!

The doors on this year's calendar are tough to open (since Mum bought the cheapest one) so Lucy needs a hand.

Putting up some solar-powered lights on what is now a Christmas tree.

All set for the holidays... even the Toyota!

Beautiful sunset.

Monday morning: hair done up like Koala ears.

Arlo, in his matching shirt, got to hang out (indoors) on Lucy's side while Mum & Dad met with Teacher Preeti.

The monkey who is too excited to go home.

Looking for the turtles.

Almost ready to get her license.

Peek-a-boo! Arlo's special Christmas tree ornament. How clever!

Hmm! Turns out the wreath is a great package delivery spot as well.

Someone has rediscovered her Halloween candy stash.

Procrastinating again; the turtles, the turtles!

Lucy is upping her driving game today.

Now she can see far!

Watch out for the "crazy woman driver!"

Last football of the year!

So fast, he's a blur.

The only fun way to slide down the slide these days.

Very carefully taking stock of her Halloween candy.

It was only a matter of time until they decided to wear the stockings.

Looking good!

And now, we have a fireplace in our living room!

Happy Holiday Thursday! It's Father's Day!

Special bagel breakfast for Dad!

And following the bagels with a round of ice cream.

What a special day!

Lucy's not wasting a drop of her ice cream.

Time for some holiday chalk!

This stenographer is very carefully crafting his message.

And there you have it: Merry Christmas!

A bird, a bear, or Santa?

This is a Cyber Truck, in case you couldn't tell.

Meanwhile, Lucy is keen to start riding the pedal bike.

She's not pedaling yet, but it fits her now; so that's a start.

Time for a make-up swim!

Waiting patiently for class to start.

Meanwhile, this guy is practicing his lettering.

The culprit, who knocked over the cactuses on the balcony.

Special afternoon activity: enjoying the "new" TV.

Enraptured!

Chomp-chomp-chomping away on her halloween gummy candy.

And closing the holiday evening with some puzzles. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 857

November 28, 2024

Mum’s back from London, and things are as busy as ever. We visited two parks over the weekend; and the holiday season is officially here! 🎄

Swinging into Friday be like... whee!

And Mum's coming home soon! Just doing a fly-by past Suvarnabhumi.

Clear shot of the satellite terminal, which is now very heavily used.

Great view of Mega Bangna.

And Ancient Siam (although we've never gone).

And greeted by this friendly face upon landing. Where are we, anyway?

Mum couldn't even get two steps into the house before being tackled (for souvenirs).

Showing off her new undies from M&S.

And jumping right into his maze book.

One of mum's team members gave Arlo & Lucy some Peppa Pig activity books, too. That was so kind!

Quick fish-feeding, and then time for bed!

Up early to play on Saturday morning.

Starting the day with some fishing.

Lucy made this tall Taipei 101.

And time for our Saturday morning swim!

Arlo's turn!

Rhino Hero still entertains.

Someone was fast asleep and didn't want to wake from her nap.

But we had plans! Off to Benjakitti Forest Park to meet Aya and her family.

We hadn't been there in ages, and have only brought bikes once before.

It was Lucy's first time biking there.

Checking out the lotuses.

Watching the water bead up and roll off the lotus leaves.

Surprisingly huge flower for such a small center.

These city kids are fascinated by the nature!

All the kids (no adults allowed!) on top of a viewing point.

Smile!

And just Arlo and Lucy.

The sun sets so early now!

Running around the amphitheater after dark.

Taking the express route back: via the elevated walkway.

More fishing the next morning.

Arlo kindly let Lucy play in his room on Sunday morning.

Checking out the stars.

It's Team Cereal!

A lovely Sunday morning at the park: another place we've not been in a while.

This monkey is at home here.

Arlo chose to practice his volleyball skills.

Playing together (briefly).

And heading back to the car via the Christmas displays at Emporium and EmQuartier.

A roller coaster in the walkway.

That's one giant, colorful tree!

Special late-afternoon treat: Ba Noo, a neighbor from our old house, came to visit.

She lives in Sydney now, and was back in Bangkok for a few weeks only.

Back to school on Monday; new games set up for the kids.

This monkey has graduated to hanging from his legs.

Lucy was happy to see Amalia after the weekend.

Someone doesn't want to go home!

Just lounging around on Tuesday morning.

Letting the coach know that he won the game.

Bath time hairstyles by Dad.

Someone wants to take bubbles to school...

What is this monkey up to?

Teacher Preeti said that Lucy really likes beading. Although we don't have any beads at home, we were able to improvise.

Ta-daa! Done in no time!

Arlo with his hedgehog purse.

Mum and Lucy are watching a movie.

Lucy is really keen to use the monkey bars on her own, and insists that she can...

... until it's time to come down!

Baby Ellie is cherished by all the kids in the Moo Baan.

Uh oh, Arlo! You have a bubble in your hair!

Lucy's school was having a morning dance party to Christmas tunes. The holidays are officially here!

Bangkok Week 856

November 21, 2024

Loy Krathong - one of our bigger annual festivals - is here! Celebrated on the full moon night of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar, the kids (and adults too, I suppose) wear traditional Thai dress and make floral krathong to float on the river (or other waterways). Fun for all!

We also celebrated our favorite year-end tradition: the Piñata 🪅 party hosted by friends Ronan & Carson (and their parents).

Then Mum dashed off to London, and Dad heroically held down the fort for the rest of the week.

Happy Songkran!

The school is all prepared with a morning full of activities for the students.

Arlo is hard at work making a banana leaf propeller boat.

Comparing boats with Martin.

Watching the propeller boats go!

Meanwhile, Lucy is painting with banana leaf stems.

And making a quick diversion to the monkey bars to show how strong she is.

Supervising Lamar while she makes som tum.

Then Arlo joined Teacher Selly to decorate a traditional fish.

Lucy too!

Another minor distraction.

The main attraction: making a krathong.

Lucy with some professional assistance.

Posing with her first-ever Krathong.

Now off to float it, with some guidance from P'Mali.

Here comes Arlo with his. (Actually, this might have been his 3rd.)

Off it goes!

Lucy had an enjoyable time on Arlo's side, but ended up missing all the activities on the Nursery side.

Bye, Lucy! Have a good Loy Krathong day at school!

Arlo got a new turn table for his train tracks, which he's excited about!

Saturday morning pillow crashing.

Lucy playing train and demonstrating her flexibility at the same time.

It's the first time Arlo's joining his designated swimming lesson in several weeks.

And after battling the traffic, here we are at Ronan & Carson's annual pinata fiesta.

Arlo's waiting in anticipation.

He's much better this year than in previous years!

Much stronger... and didn't end up hurling the stick this year either.

They had massage chairs set up for the adults.

Lucy just made herself part of the big girls' group.

We mark the passage of years by the photos on this play structure.

This year, both of them are much more adventurous.

Lucy would've happily climbed to the top if she could figure out how.

Mum's turn!

And playing with Sally, one of his longest friends.

This condo has gotten a great new playground since we were last here!

One final set of swings before heading home. It's almost dark!

A lazy Sunday, after a long and busy Saturday.

Arlo ran home to get a broom to help sweep up the leaves at the playground.

Swinging together nicely.

At a make-up lesson. But the rain is so heavy and loud in the pool area that you can't hear anything. So we're waiting in the front.

Meanwhile, Arlo & Dad get some Rhino Hero under their belts.

Arlo has a make-up lesson with technically-focused Teacher JP again.

(Very subtly) eavesdropping on Teacher JA's class.

With a burst of creativity, Arlo came home and drew...

... a very detailed "Jumping Tank".

Inventorying (and opening) our entire bandaid collection.

Starting a new week of school, while Mum is off to London.

Lucy, whose clothes are you wearing? (She went through all her outfits at school today.)

Playing his new game, "Genius Square". (I love it!)

We learned about this game at the Toy Museum in Tokyo.

Some after-nap wrestling.

Time to kill before school, so hanging out in the back.

Arlo still likes football.

Waiting patiently for her turn on the swing.

Hiding in the tree house.

The boy gang; just missing one member.

The tree is up at Lucy's school! Christmastime is here!

Uh oh! Where is Lucy?

There she is!

Celebrating 2 years and 8 months today.

This monkey enjoys climbing over her seat into the front now, to play.

What are these natural-looking bananas?

They're banana bread with a chocolate topping. What's not to like?

Mr. Train engineer.

Uh oh! Lucy bonked the back of her head.

What a stylish way to recover.

Bangkok Week 855

November 14, 2024

The week started with Shin the giant caterpillar, and included a fun long-weekend in Trat. Big boy Arlo did a Taster Day at St. Andrews, and everyone is gearing up for Loy Krathong. Stay tuned!

Happy Friday, says the girl in her pajamas.

On the way out the door, met the largest caterpillar we've ever seen!

He was as long as my pointer finger, and almost as fat!

He came to school with Lucy and Arlo, and entertained the kids.

Arlo went to school for an hour...

... and then popped out for his assessment at St. Andrews.

This large boulder left an impression with him.

Showing off where she stores her dinner.

Stretching and ready for an exciting day ahead!

We're off to Trat, for the first time since July.

Everyone was happy that we were there.

Lucy approves of Bella's digs.

Oh my. New toys (and new old toys) to go around.

Dumping a shoeful of pebbles into Yaa's hand. How did those get there?

Checking out the trees in the back.

Just like in Ueno Park, the pond here is full of lotuses, too!

Yea plucked this flower for them to look at. (It's surprisingly light, which makes sense I guess.)

And then Dad managed to snag a flower in full bloom.

"Helping" Yaa cook dinner.

And a quick trip to visit Yaa's brother (and his family) down the road.

It's a rodeo in the house tonight!

Hang on, Lucy!

Can't call it a night without going fishing.

Up bright and early the next morning.

It was a fight for the trike all weekend.

The two little "helpers" are back, this time eager to "help" sweep.

Both Lucy and Arlo enjoy having Yaa brush their hair.

Prancing around upstairs.

"Hi, Bellllla!"

Visiting the family's rice paddies.

Most of the rice had been harvested, but a few stalks on the edge were missed.

Two city girlz.

Next stop: the rubber plantation.

Lucy and Arlo both were very interested in how the latex was collected.

It does eventually harden, but it's a sticky liquid when it first comes out.

Looking down over the river that's right below the land.

Someone else has planted pineapples on the land immediately next door... but none were growing yet.

Stopping to visit Puu's sister (can't you tell?) on the way home.

There's a new cafe, ice cream shop, and (tiny) hotel just down the road.

The ice cream was home-made, tasty, and inexpensive!

They were also home to two giant tortoises...

...and lots of fish.

10 baht to feed the fish? Why not.

Enjoying the fruit back at home. Orange season is starting!

Here goes the dangerous duo again.

As if one ice cream a day weren't enough...

Lucy figured out the pedaling motion this trip.

Taking a quick trip around the yard with Aa'Top on his new electric bike.

This hairbrushing routine reveals how easily tangled Lucy's hair is!

Monday morning already?

Bella knows something is up.

Saying bye to their up-country sister.

See everyone again soon!

Bye bye, Bella! See you soon!

Quick stop at everyone's favorite Shell on the way home.

This one is new (or more prominently positioned).

Captaining the rocket ship.

The cafe backs onto this pond, with a two-story seating area overlooking it! Who knew!

Back home just after noon, in time to splash in the sun (and for Mum & Dad to work).

Lucy's Loy Krathong outfit arrived from the north.

Arlo's getting ready to make his Krathong later this week.

Tuesday is another special day! Arlo is spending it at St. Andrews, in what they call a "Taster Day".

We can bike to school in no time.

This will be so convenient!

Lucy is missing her brother, and insisted on coming to his side to play first.

Arlo was back at Annabel's in time for Thai class and football.

What a long day! But he had a spring in his step throughout, and hasn't stopped talking about St. Andrews since.

Uh oh! Arlo's stuck!

Jumping from hill to hill with Amalia after school.

Playing with a game he made in Thai class.

The air is bad these days, so there's no garden time before school.

Caught red-handed!

Enjoying a cake pop after school while waiting to be picked up... the traffic was so bad, no tuk-tuk could be found :(

And someone turns 5 years and 2 months old today!

Halloween continues: these two ghosts were spotted running around Lucy's room.

And if that weren't enough, someone really wants to wear this dress for Loy Krathong tomorrow.

Bangkok Week 854

November 7, 2024

Halloween may be behind us, but the fun is not over yet! We had a lovely Halloween celebration within the Moo Baan on Saturday. The last of the family got long-overdue hair trims. And Arlo and Lucy did great while Mum was away in KL for most of the week.

Halloween is behind us, but that doesn't mean the fun is done!

On Lucy's side, the face paints are still out, and open to DIY.

She surprised us all with an uncanny ability to paint her own face.

Someone's going to be a make-up influencer!

Fortunate to have a chance to pick up Arlo on the way home from work.

Friday night photos.

It's a beautiful Saturday: not too hot, not too humid. Perfect for Halloween (part two).

Spotted a mushroom growing in the bricks at the playground.

Arlo helped mum put up a spider web in front of our house.

Arlo wrote out 'Happy Halloween' all by himself!

Enjoying the empty driveway for once.

Selfie with Dad.

We've got some time; why not make Halloween cookies!?

Arlo was a great helper at first.

Approximate ingredients are fine.

The sugar cookie dough is a perfect halloween orange now!

Arlo lost interest, but Lucy stuck around for the good part.

Helping put on the sprinkles.

Great work, Lucy!

How convenient! Someone came back for the taste-test.

The cookies pass with flying colors. (Orange and brown, to be precise.)

Playing Rhino Hero again.

This tower is getting tall!

Arlo needs to stand up to take his turn now.

Arlo finishes his cards first, and wins in a landslide!

It's not yet 5pm, but most decorations are up now. So let's do a quick tour.

All the houses in the Moo Baan just put out tables (or car trunks) with candy, in a 'help yourself' model.

The Moo Baan's setup is still under construction. Will check back later.

Arlo and Lucy's friend Lamar, and her mums, came over to join us for trick-or-treating... in their halloween best!

Getting ready to go.

It's 5pm! Game time!

Well, it goes without saying: there were no other hedgehogs in the neighborhood.

Starting by trick-or-treating at their own home.

Larissa's house had a really nice chocolate offering!

A few former Annabel's classmates were there, too.

It took Lucy about 2 houses to get the hang of what was going on.

The streets got crowded quickly.

And the Moo Baan's decorations are up and ready.

Although they were pretty grim and creepy this year.

Definitely not to toddler tastes.

12-year-old Anais baked and hand-decorated beautiful Halloween gingerbread cookies. Lucy took the biggest one.

Trick-or-treat!

We didn't have many cobwebs, but the Christmas lights worked well enough.

Daisy was a hot dog!

Crowded streets!

Oh boy!

Picking from the trunk of the car.

Sticking their hand inside the surprise box. What's in there!?!

Not even 6:30, but we're all cleaned out! Time to call it a night!

As if the Halloween candy weren't enough, there was leftover fairy bread for breakfast.

And a limit of two candies per day.

Big brother hedgehog came back on Sunday for an encore.

And Arlo & Lucy's restaurant.

Lucy's turn for a hair trim!

And lunch on the balcony....

... while Arlo and Dad go for a haircut at the barber in the train car.

Looking much tidier, Arlo!

Lucy's pleased with her laser-straight new bangs.

This orchid has new blooms, too! Knock on wood, I think we've found the magic spot for them!

More Rhino Hero, while Lucy's at her make-up lesson.

Lucy's lesson is a bit before Arlo's make-up, so they can enjoy snacks in the lobby before Arlo goes in.

Watching her big brother carefully.

Teacher JP is very technical, and makes Arlo work hard!

Someone is too tired to get up from her nap.

Crazy dancers before bedtime.

Back at school on Monday, and sporting her new bangs.

Why take the easy route, when you can take the hard route!?

Lucy making the most of her time on the older side.

This is a differentiator: som tum made while biking.

Breakfast is served.

Lucy the daredevil.

Working on her balance...

... as well as her art.

Chatting with P'Mali, and Khru Kul, the Thai teacher.

Meanwhile, Mum's in KL and out to snap a few pics (and pick up a few souvenirs).

The skyline has changed so much since I was last here in October 2018.

The Petronas Towers *are* beautiful at night.

Two little daredevils.

Lucy is a very strong monkey.

Hooray! Mum's finally home!

Looking at his new fungi book with Teacher Selly.

Flying his friend Brooklyn around.

It's an evening of blindfolds.

A car with 3 steering wheels!?

Lucy's enjoying her new book.

The lines are everywhere, not limited to just the pages.

Bangkok Week 853

October 31, 2024

Fresh off the plane, it’s a slow recovery and reintegration with Bangkok life. Arlo’s still really into trains (especially Shinkansen). And after much preparation, Halloween is here… as are our two hedgehogs! 🎃🦔

And we're home! After a week in the train capital of the world, Arlo can't wait to play with his.

And he really wants to draw what he saw in Japan.

A giant 100-yen coin.

And playing with his new card game, Rhino Hero.

Lucy, meanwhile, is clearly exhausted and had a 3-hour nap on Mum's bed (with Mum) around 9:45am.

Someone needed some real cajoling to be woken up after 3 hours.

Nothing like a little water splashing to re-acclimate ourselves to Bangkok weather.

The Moo Baan has put up this year's halloween sign. This will be good!

This swing can't compare to the Tokyo playground swings. But it's not nothing.

Halloween is upon us... and the hedgehogs aren't finished yet. But here's Lucy's nose!

Sunday afternoon make-up lesson for both of them.

Arlo entertainment.

Mum's turn trying her hand at Rhino Hero (which teaches both strategy and fine motor skills).

Family dinner of Mac & cheese and broccoli (both slightly fancier for the adults).

Arlo's recreated the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in blocks.

Helping his sister put on a bandaid.

And back to school after a week away; wasting no time drawing Shinkansen.

The Australian surf board & wave are still there.

Drama outside our house: a smoking electricity pole!

Delicious ice cream!

Over the break, the school got several new balance bikes.

And there's a maze set up on Lucy's side. Take a ticket first!

Lucy the rock star.

Literal rays of sunlight at school this morning.

Halloween is tomorrow, so it's time for the final fitting!

Well, I can't say she looks pleased. But she looks good!

Arlo's final fitting that evening. Nose straps need tightening!

And it's go time! Here come the hedgehog siblings!

Clearly they are thrilled to be here, and be dressed like this.

Well, the nursery teachers appreciated them!

It's hedgehog Arlo and Ninja Selly!

Back on Lucy's side, she's discovered the magic of face paint!

Uh oh! Hedgehog got tangled in the cobweb!

Hedgehog getting some halloween tattoos.

And a new Halloween 'do for Mum.

Last stop of an eventful day for Lucy: the doctor.

Here for her second rabies vaccine.

Making the most of her visit.

See you next week!

One week in Tokyo!

October 26, 2024

A jam-packed, exhausting, eye-opening, fun-filled 7 days in Tokyo! Arlo and Lucy had a wonderful time observing the differences, taking in the sights, trying the food, riding the trains. Tokyo packs a punch, and we’ll be back for sure! Just need to rest our legs a bit first. 🗼⛩️🍙🚅

It's the trip we've been waiting for, and Arlo is ready!

Enjoying Hagen-Daaz ice cream in the lounge. Turns out kids under 6 can get in for free (with a gold card holder).

Arlo and Lucy get to take the new underground shuttle to the satellite terminal for the first time.

At the airport, we ran into Arlo & Lucy's friends, Brooklyn & Boss, who were also off to Japan.

Settled into the flight nicely (although we managed to get the only window seats without a window).

This peaceful image lasted for about 3 minutes.

Lucy proudly didn't sleep a wink on the flight, and was thrilled to receive this 3am breakfast.

Got our luggage, got our children; and waiting for the Keikyu Express into the city!

Lucy loves to hold onto the handles!

No wasted opportunities collecting the Eki stamps.

Pointing out where we just came from.

And we emerge in down town Tokyo (Kuramae)! Blue skies, and beautiful Japanese buildings.

First stop: breakfast from 7-Eleven.

And then we stumbled upon this view.

Tokyo, we made it!

Our first stop of the morning is Senso-ji Temple.

And that seems to also be the case for everyone else in Tokyo today.

Everyone else was touching the lantern, so Lucy had to, too.

Arlo really wanted to get a fortune.

He got the best one!

Our first giant koi spotting. They were hungry!

Lucy waiting patiently, while Mum & Arlo got the commemorative calligraphy in the stamp books.

Wafting the incense (as observed).

Continuing on to the shopping galleries behind Senso-ji.

Don-don-don quijote! With the same catchy music as in Bangkok.

Arlo was enthralled by this street performer.

So many bikes!

Continuing through Kappabashi.

Stopping at a tiny park for a swing, and a bite to eat.

And finally to our AirBnB!

The tatami room, which proved to be a great play space...

... and the bedroom for Mum & Lucy.

View out the (little) balcony.

There was a nice playground only ~3 minutes away (which Lucy spotted through an alley).

And dinner from our (soon to be) go-to grocery store, after a very long first day.

Night night from down here!

Good morning! Seems like someone slept well!

Very well-rested, refreshed, and ready for another (much cooler) day!

An emerging fascination with manhole covers.

And this one can spot a slide from a mile away.

A refreshing morning walk, and our destination is there in the background.

Walking along the scenic Sumida river.

Getting closer!

So many funny, different vehicles here!

Almost there!

We made it! Tokyo Sky Tree!

What's this? A glass floor!?

Say "cheezu!"

Next stop: Sumida aquarium, at the base of Tokyo Sky Tree.

It's not a big aquarium at all, but very beautifully curated.

The jellyfish exhibits were stunning.

Giant sting ray...

... and daddy shark!

Taking attendance. Making sure all the penguins are there (by name).

Arlo was really fascinated by these cute little garden eels.

And Lucy liked this giant guy (who's not a puffer, but looks like he should be).

These jellies are only 2-3 days old!

Lunch time, at the food court in the Skytree mall.

Yummy tempura, udon, and soba.

And we stumbled upon an official Tomica store!

Can't leave empty-handed. (Actually, the prices were really good!)

Really happy with his new Isuzu dump truck.

Comparing vehicles.

Now walking along the JR Chuo line.

Our first vending machine encounter.

Lucy spotted another fun playground.

This one had a great, fast (staticky) slide.

And some good climbing equipment.

This is a 5-star ramen restaurant! The line never got shorter.

Made it to Akihabara, for the Sunday walking street.

Chaotic and windy, but a great opportunity to stroll down the middle of the road!

Abbey Lane vibes?

A common, but still funny, site!

Old amidst new.

Exhausted by dinnertime for a second night in the row.

Up early, and ready for another exciting day.

But not without some tatami tumbling first.

Today is Monday, and so it's our first rush hour experience.

Really cute Toei trains for sale in the station.

We've come to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Complex, but it's not open yet...

... so we've come to this awesome playground next door first.

The have the widest slide I've ever seen.

Similar to slides in Taipei, it's made of polished concrete. And it's very fast!

Lots of ninja obstacles.

And a very neat-looking, but extremely slow, slide.

Here, Arlo is smiling... and stuck.

Riding another airplane. The flight the other evening was not enough.

Two monkeys.

Heading back to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building now.

Nice views from up here, too!

Back on the train (this time after rush hour).

Quick nourishment break (but so much single-use packaging!)

Dad's herculean effort pushing Arlo in the stroller up this hill.

Here we are! The Tokyo Toy Museum!

We ended up spending almost 4 hours here!

Playing alongside school groups.

Arlo really liked this game. (We ordered it once we got home.)

Recognize this cactus?

Toys for all ages (and foot sizes)!

A soroban play area.

Move the abacus around inside the giant vat of beads, and see how many you can pick up.

Lucy knows to roll the die, and match the color.

Playing magnetic football. They both got it.

Even the construction site next door was interesting.

Lunch break in the school yard.

And then back to play with more toys - including the classics.

Gathering mushrooms.

That was a fun afternoon!

Too tired to stay awake for the interesting manhole covers.

We made it, by foot, to Meiji Jingu.

Coming from the back entrance, you walk through absolutely enormous trees.

Lucy was awake for it, but someone else wasn't.

Lucy knows the drill before entering the shrine.

What's he doing?

Someone's awake now, but not in the mood for photos.

We're in the neighborhood, so we might as well check out Takeshita Street in Harajuku!

It's famous for its crepes, so we'd better try the crepes.

These go-karts (on the main roads) seem to be a new tourist fad.

Stumbled upon the Yamanote line!

And back at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for its evening light show.

What a spectacular show!

Someone doesn't know how to control her voice indoors. (Or, more likely, chooses not to.)

Another dinner after an exhausting 22k-step day.

Today's the day Arlo's been waiting for!

We're heading to Tokyo Station...

... to buy our Shinkansen tickets!

And we're ready to go!

To say that someone is excited would be an understatement.

And we're off to Odawara.

Here we are thanks to our N700, Kodama service.

Hanging back in the station to wait for the next Shinkansen to shoot through.

Nose!

Lots of cool manhole covers in Odawara, too!

Our first stop (accidental) is a Ninja experience.

The ninjas played a big part in the history of Odawara; and here, we had a chance to test our ninja skills.

Arlo found a sword hidden below the floor boards.

Carefully trying to slide along a wall.

Hiding - pretty subtly, I must say.

And now, onto the castle.

Here's how the castle would have been constructed.

These two were still in Ninja mode, and looking for places to hide.

Made it to Odawara Castle.

Nice view from the top, and only a few stairs to get here.

Enjoying a well-earned ice cream. (Or is it lunch?)

Lucy spotted this cone from all the way at the top of the castle.

Heading back to Tokyo.

Posing with our train.

A few tracks over, Arlo spots the real Sinkansen of his dreams.

A clear shot of the E5, in all its green glory.

Heading home on everyone's favorite Yamanote Line.

Stopping at Ueno Park. We thought we might do the pedal boats, but the entire pond is a massive lotus garden right now.

On the way home, stopping at this park we'd spotted a few days earlier.

The roller slide was a big hit!

The diameter of these rollers is much smaller than the one we tried in Taipei. I think that helps.

As if we hadn't ridden enough Shinkansen yet today!

And the funny 3-way slide (banana slide?!) that we'd seen from the street.

Vegan ramen for dinner.

They have really great children's programming on TV at dinner time (smart!). Lucy loved dancing along.

It's never too young to start learning about flow charts!

Today, we're heading to Odaba.

Look at all these school kids walking to school by themselves.

Here we are, on the Yurikamome, heading out to Odaiba.

Crossing the Rainbow Bridge.

And walking to our first destination.

Lucky that this fire truck was here to give a fire safety training session to the business next door.

Our first stop: Small Worlds miniatures museum.

It's one of the largest miniatures museums in Asia, apparently.

Watching a space shuttle take off.

The exhibits were interactive; pushing buttons triggered trains to drive, lights to turn on, things to move.

But the clear highlight was...

... an operational replica of Kansai International Airport!

It cycled through days (daylight, sunset, night time, sunrise).

With planes taking off and landing throughout.

A night time departure.

And a Qatar flight landing.

In the workshop, a technician is fixing a broken finnair aircraft.

Interesting place to visit once.

Enjoying a small playground while Dad goes to find lunch.

Next stop, the Tokyo Water Science Museum.

This museum - run by the Bureau of Waterworks - was perfect for their age.

Watching fish swim by.

Making water tornadoes.

And standing in a giant bubble.

Learning about how water makes up plants and animals...

... and how water gets in, and out, of our bodies.

Installing some water pipes.

It's turned into a stormy day in Tokyo Bay. Better hurry back to the train!

Stopping at Hakuhinkan Toy Park on the way home; Arlo woke up just in time!

The Shinkansen train that he'd like to buy.

Nissan concept car on display in Ginza.

Udon & tempura for dinner from the grocery store.

And more wonderful dinnertime programming.

Tonight, the flow chart is about monkeys picking fleas.

It's a beautiful day to head back across town and check out Shibuya.

First stop: Hachiko -- and Arlo had the shirt to match.

Next, the stamp.

And then, the scramble.

Looking at the scramble from above.

Then, our favorite shop: Hands.

How do you like your eggs?

Lucy enjoyed the shopping!

Delicious ramen for lunch.

A kids' set for these two...

... and a few delicious vegan options for the adults.

And then we hopped into Mika Otake's car!

And these two were asleep in a flash!

Playing in an art exhibit at Tokyo Midtown.

Finally meeting Mika after all these years.

Good thing all the Mikas got the t-shirt memo!

Last stop for the day: TeamLab Borderless.

It's an interactive art x science x technology exhibit.

Checking out their tummies.

Going for a slide.

Walking through fields of light.

When you catch the birds, they turn into flowers.

This room was filled with orbs running along tracks. Very neat.

If you have enough patience, you can create a fish, and it will join in the swim.

Fortunate that we were able to secure tickets! They sell out weeks in advance.

Great view of Tokyo Tower on our way home.

Stopping back at the toy store, this time with passports in hand, to buy the Shinkansen.

Arlo was thrilled!

He wasted no time drawing his and Lucy's together.

How convenient that they fit perfectly inside the sliding door track!

Matching the E5 with the one on his sweatshirt.

Well, that's one way to sleep!

It's time to check out of our AirBnB! Lucy's helping to chug all the Yakult in the fridge.

Heading down to Yokohama for the day.

Leaving our bags (and sweaters, boo) in a coin locker...

... and heading out to explore.

First stop, the Nissan Gallery, in their global HQ.

All the latest cars on display, in a huge showroom.

And some classics, too.

Can't get enough of these boxy Japanese cars.

This one is cute, too!

Next stop is the small transport museum in the headquarters of the Keikyu Corporation.

Stand back, everyone! Arlo's driving the bus!

Stopping at another playground: this might be the smallest one yet.

Trying their mouthes at a drinking fountain.

Good thing we brought a spare shirt, Lucy!

Yokohama Cosmoworld!

Of course, stopping to ride the ferris wheel.

There goes Diving Coaster: Vanish!

Spotted a duck boat (actually, they called it a duck bus) coming out from the water.

We're almost at the top of the 112.5 meter wheel -- formerly the world's tallest.

Tempted to visit, but decided to skip it.

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, fixed up and filled with neat shops and restaurants now.

Actually, the whole waterfront is very nicely done.

I guess it's a deep sleep... on his side!

And here we are in Yokohama Chinatown, Japan's largest Chinatown.

Again, Arlo woke up just in time.

A neat dragon made of lanterns overhead.

Lucy kind of got the manhole cover plot... but not quite.

Despite it being a brisk, overcast day, and we left our sweaters in the locker... these two still wanted ice cream!

This one is a nicer one!

Finally learning to share the stroller... on Day 7.

Our last Japan sun is gone. Time to start making our way back to Haneda.

Taking the subway back to Yokohama Station. This is the last stop on the Minatomirai line.

Stumbled upon a plant-based curry restaurant in the station. The last supper!

And heading straight from Yokohama to Haneda.

I think Japan's had enough of us.

We've got hours to kill. Thankfully Haneda Airport -- land side -- is an attraction in itself!

Hey! Who knew Hakuhinkan Toy Shop had a Haneda branch, too! We could've just come here!

Enthralled by the ops video.

So tired, but can't sleep.

Getting their last drops of energy out in this kids play area airside.

Arlo hoarded all the play pieces (including logs and a tree) to make a Shinkansen...

... and then rounded up all the other midnight travelers to ride with him.

This pretty much sums up our flight back. (In that same windowless row 35!)

And the final leg of the journey! Thanks for traveling with us!

Bangkok Week 851

October 18, 2024

This is a long week — literally. We’re including an extra day (a second Friday, or International Day). But even before that, it was a busy week: with swimming, Lamar’s birthday party, a trip to the park, and Dad mightily holding down the fort while Mum was away for a short trip to Delhi. All this finally culminating in International Day Friday, before the school break. Enjoy!

Friday morning stretches before school.

Lucy's doing arts and crafts on Arlo's side again.

Strong girl!

And now Saturday morning stretches, too.

Donuts for breakfast - what could be better?

Enjoying her post-swim Yakult.

Lucy periodically enjoys wearing this jester hat.

We're off in the same tuk-tuk: but Dad & Arlo to swimming, and Mum & Lucy to Lamar's birthday party.

At the party, Lucy wanted to swim, but got distracted by the giant bowl of popcorn.

Arlo (and Lucy)'s first time playing the marshmallow game: eat the hanging marshmallow using only your mouth!

Lucy really can't believe her eyes.

It's harder than it looks!

And then it was time for the piñata, with a frightfully life-like dog as the victim.

Lucy enjoyed Lamar's trampoline.

Pin the horn on the unicorn!

Lucy was considerably off-target.

And cake time! Happy 4th birthday, Lamar!

Delicious home-made cake.

Lucy was ready to spend the night on the outdoor daybed.

A beautiful new plant for the balcony.

A Sunday morning traffic jam.

Our first trip to the park in a while -- Lucy's running for it.

Starting with the see-saw.

Peek-a-boo!

In comes Lucy!

Stopping in emSphere for a quick IKEA visit - but look at this life-size stylish giraffe!

While Dad shops, Arlo and Lucy treat themselves to ice cream.

The machine is half the fun!

Ice cream with a view.

Playing with a high-tech toy: magnet underneath and paper clip on top.

Two flowering cactuses today!

Arlo's helping Dad clean the flower tables in the back.

Looking good!

A fire truck.

And Lucy's trying on her hedgehog costume, which is nearly complete!

So cute.

Two little hedgehogs, almost ready for halloween.

Reading the Lucy fairytale book.

Pasta dinner for everyone!

And a bathtub bath - the first one in many weeks.

What? The weekend is still going? It's a holiday Monday!

And Arlo turns 5 years and 1 month old today.

Showing off his newly tidied and organized bedroom shelves.

Meanwhile, Lucy is ready for Tokyo!

Getting in one last swim before the long weekend is done.

Selfie with Mum before she heads off to India in the morning.

Back to school with a splash (of paint).

Looks like Dad's managing well.

Diligently practicing her mark-making.

Arlo was very excited to bring P'Noi to school.

Lucy's trying her hand at somtum too.

How many people does it take to clean the balcony?

A natural photographer.

Mum's home! What goodies did she bring back this time?

Special gel pens, among other things.

Painting on the older side is more fun than on the nursery side.

Sibling painting.

Doing gymnastics with Patton.

Things are almost ready for International Day!

And the purple bloom is back.

Here we go! International Day! Best seats reserved for the grandparents, as usual.

Arlo's excited.

And there's Lucy, on a giant airplane.

Ready to go, in our snazzy new shirts from Granny.

The crowd is waiting with bated breath.

Here comes Arlo's class.

And here come the nursery children.

Straight to the stage for Lucy and her classmates.

They all put on brave faces, and there were surprisingly few tears. Most just looked stunned.

And wouldn't you be, with a crowd like this!?

Arlo the lurker.

Finally it's Arlo's class's turn.

They did really well with their drums and rhythm.

And now it's time for the activities to begin!

Getting our Taiwan stamp (like Lucy is used to doing).

We love Taiwan!

Ice cream for a snack? What's not to love.

Let the fun begin in Canada.

Lucy's modeling what the craft is about.

Lots of customers for moose antlers.

And back to Taiwan - Lucy can't stay away for long.

Lucy and Aya.

Arlo trying out Chinese "stilts". He got the hang of it pretty quickly.

Lucy was enjoying hanging out with Aya and Doreen.

Lucy won this fun whistle (blow the ball up and catch it again) at the Thai booth.

Representing Canada -- Year 3!

Another international day in the books!

And winding up the extra-long week with a preemptive tree photo for Lucy, since we'll be away on the 20th. See you in Tokyo!

Bangkok Week 850

October 10, 2024

It’s a long and busy week! At school, there was a charity event; pancakes and maple syrup as part of Breakfasts of the World; a new passport for Arlo; a visa renewal for Mum; Lumpini Park; and someone’s 40th birthday… I think we need a rest after this week!

Welcome back! This morning, Lucy is modeling the Canada Day activity for this year.

We're bringing it to school today so that the school can help prepare the materials.

But first! The Annabel's Charity Fun Fair, to fundraise for the floods in the north.

Arlo's class baked cookies, and were also selling iced coffee and tea alongside them.

The K1 classes made a bunch of games to play, like this one.

Guide the wooden spoon through the track and dump them in the bowl without spilling!

Lucy had a solution of her own: pull the spoon out entirely and just carry it over to the bowl.

Fishing for frogs with a tissue net.

And an obstacle course.

Toward the end, Arlo helped Teacher Selly sell the coffee and cookies.

And last but not least, giving Trins his (slightly belated) birthday present.

After all the fun on Arlo's side, Lucy didn't want to go back to her school for the rest of the day.

Checking out the two new turtles who live on the Nursery side now.

Arlo went to rouse Lucy after her nap, and she was thrilled.

Painting her own face. Unclear if she thinks it's face paint or makeup!

Lucy looks just like the Lucy in her fairytale book from UncleJasmineJosh.

Goofing around before bed.

Arlo just cleaned Dad's clock in his new game, Pigs in Pants.

Cycling to swimming in style.

Dad and Arlo went to play some ball while Mum & Lucy were away.

This purple plant has been with us for years -- since our time in Ari -- and this is the first time it's blooming!

Two matching monkeys playing in the couch.

Drawing fashionable watches on their arms.

Swimming time for Arlo!

Still a ways to go on his racing dive.

Some sunset shots in their new matching shirts.

And pizza dinner! Trying our good old friends at Soho for the first time in years.

An early Sunday trip to the passport office for Arlo, now that he's 5.

We hadn't been to MBK in years. But many shops were the same - including this with the giant mango that Lucy liked.

Stopping by Lumpini Park on the way home, since we were already in the neighborhood.

After 10am, cycling is allowed.

Granny's friends were out in strength this Sunday morning. We saw over a dozen.

Arlo was really into lizard-spotting this time!

Lucy, on the other hand, was enjoying the duck boats.

This was the biggest one we saw all morning.

There's a new pump track for balance bikes at Lumpini Park now, too.

Waiting patiently while his sister played.

Arlo's hedgehog costume is coming along!

Practicing curling up.

Dressed in patriotic outfits today for Arlo's class: we'll be doing pancakes and Canadian maple syrup!

But first: Lucy has started to enjoy the art projects set up on Arlo's side every morning.

Taping her rain drop to the umbrella.

Next, climbing the rope ladder.

And playing the guitar.

Practicing drawing (and erasing) in chalk.

And trampolining with Amalia.

And now, it's time for maple syrup (and pancakes).

... but eating the pancakes & syrup were the highlight.

Almost everyone came back for seconds (and thirds).

Arlo insisted on bringing "If you give a Pig a Pancake" to read with his class as well.

Lucy looking at a (dead) bee.

After-school doctor's visit for Arlo: 5-year checkup and vaccines.

This big helper helped to transfer the rice into a container.

Tuesday morning sand play...

... while Lucy is busy painting.

Quite pleased with herself.

Annual visit to Immigration to request an extension of my visa.

Enjoying their last Kinder Eggs from Uncle JasmineJosh.

Someone's got a plan for breakfast.

Oh! Lucky Mum! Tim Horton's for breakfast! This must be a special day.

Arlo's quite pleased with himself for putting the candles in.

Happy birthday, Mum!

A big hug from my big boy...

... and my big girl. All I could ask for!

And treating myself to a special birthday swim...

...in a whopping 25m pool!

Special treat from Dad: lunch out at Mother May I.

And enjoying the traditional blizzard cake after nap time.

Got a brand new wall calendar for the next year. The best!

Lucy's studying it intently.

Thank you for the birthday prezzies.

Not to be forgotten: a stylish skirt from Granny.

And a matching shirt to go along with it!

Reading Lucy's library book (and everyone's fave): Llama Llama Misses Mama.

The next morning, this sleepyhead is fast asleep because she couldn't nap the day before.

Looking for P'Noi's motorbike key, which accidentally got dropped in the drain last night.

It's Thursday, which means Lucy's favorite shirt is clean to wear again.

Not sure where my driver's taking me, but boy is it bumpy!

Playing with friends. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 849

October 3, 2024

We had another busy weekend this week: a posh birthday party on Saturday, and then a playdate with P’Kate on Sunday. Plus swimming and swimming meant that when Monday rolled around, it was time to rest! And the Halloween Hedgehogs are slowly but surely starting to take shape…

We thought, yay! We have the whole yard to ourselves!

Playing in the "garden" before saying good-bye.

Lucy's entertaining herself nicely after school.

Albeit messily.

Arlo's getting a first look at his hedgehog costume, which is still very much work-in-progress.

Two blooms today! Almost missed them!

Oh my! That is a very messy tooth-brushing, Lucy!

A new balloon for the new weekend.

Off to swimming in style.

Arlo's writing birthday cards for Brooklyn and Bona.

Lucy is driving the Zamboni!

Looking at the wildlife photography book together.

Wake up, sleepy head! Time to go party!

It was a pool party...

... plus a magician and balloon artist.

Lucy was very pleased with her cat.

Everyone's lined up to watch the magic show.

Arlo and Martin are entertained.

Where did that bird come from?

Lucky Brooklyn, got his own BMW!

Lucy really couldn't wait to sneak a peak. And a ride.

Getting ready for a morning ride around the Moo Baan.

And then, P'Kate and her family arrived.

Lucy and Arlo haven't seen P'Kate since February.

Playing games altogether...

... and having an early lunch.

Three monkeys.

Lunch was so early, there's time to get another round in at the playground.

Boo! Look at this little monkey who snuck up behind me.

Mimicking the photo on Mum's keychain.

Arlo, just hanging out.

Yuri found this beetle at the pool side. So, putting him back in the garden.

Special treat! Mint chocolate chip blizzard!

And fresh broccoli.

Nap time for everyone!

And a quick dip before dinner.

Lucy enjoyed the neighbor's unicorn, which they accidentally left behind.

Captain Underpants, and his apprentice.

She's learning from the finest.

Japan, here we come!

To start the week right, Lucy's partaking in the art project on Arlo's side.

They're decorating rain drops...

To attach to this umbrella.

Rain rain, go away!

Strong Lucy! Using the bridge like parallel bars.

And swinging on two rope swings at once.

Now playing with the new water toy on Arlo's side... and we haven't even made it to Lucy's side yet!

Ahoy matey, one outfit change later.

This morning, Arlo's coming to Lucy's side to drop her off.

Practicing her monkey swings.

Home after a long day.

Working on his coloring.

Playing in the sandbox, next to 18-month-olds.

Here's Tarzana.

Lucy! What happened to your clothes!?

And a quick trip to the doctor for her 2.5-year checkup and vaccines.

Brave Lucy, heading home.

And our flags for international day have arrived in the mail. Almost ready! Stay tuned.

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!