Bangkok Week 882

May 22, 2025

This week, as rainy season kicks into full gear, the mushrooms are on the rise! And it’s a busy week: we hone our grip strength; re-home the papayas; re-home some fish; and welcome home some friends we’ve not seen yet this year.

Another week, another lazy Friday morning!

Arlo's found a renewed interest in the monkey bars.

Hanging out with the Year 1's.

Making special potions together.

It's a rainy morning over Bangkok, and the office affords a great view.

Someone is thrilled to be given a *whole bag* of gummy bears... but demonstrates commendable self-restraint!

Working with Dad...

... until Mum & Arlo come home.

Lucy, what are you doing in the closet?

Arlo's cactus garden.

I think there's more than a slight resemblance between Arlo and the new Meiji mug.

Have I mentioned we have a papaya problem? The good news is that a solution is in sight!

Ride-sharing at its most unique!

A surprise guest in Lucy's swimming lesson today!

And enjoying orange popsicles afterward. (And one to bring home for Arlo.)

Time to clean the fish bowl! It's been several months.

Lucy's a pro at scooping out the fish now, too.

Too many fish!

Quick trip to Max Valu -- by foot! -- while Arlo & Dad go to swimming.

She seemed tired, but came alive when we reached the gummy aisle.

And she insisted on picking out an ice cream for herself.

Someone is really into practicing piano these days. (I'm not complaining!)

Finally playing the 3D snakes & ladders game he made last term.

Saturday night special: bathtub bath!

And doing what everyone does before bed.

Read!

Happy, Sunny Sunday!

What a treat, donuts for breakfast.

Hanging out with Dad and all her friends.

Meanwhile, at music...

... Arlo is finding his "voice".

It's definitely rainy season, and so we've spotted so many mushrooms growing.

Here they all are, photographed, printed, and labelled.

Lucy is into playing trains now, too.

Sally, Douglass, Ronan & Carson (and their families) came over for a swim & dinner.

No room left in the pool!

Lucy's got crazy hair - even without any hair ties!

Excited to start his school week with a giant bowl of milo balls. (And another, and another.)

It's a(nother) rainy, rainy Monday morning.

Arlo is happy to spend these mornings at Nursery...

... where Lucy settles in comfortably!

Playing playdough with the littles.

Out-playdoughing the 2-year-olds.

Getting the papayas ready for their next big adventure.

Lucy is building up her grip strength on the monkey bars, too.

And her balance.

This cactus flower is fascinating. It has stamen within the stamen. (I'm sure there's a name for those.)

Football Tuesday!

Playing with new, colorful stones.

(These came with a small fish bowl that we got second-hand, for Arlo's classroom.)

More crazy hair for Lucy!

More treasure for his treasure box.

Effort #1 for the day: procuring some fish for the classroom.

And effort #2 for the day: loading up the school van with papayas!

Here are the fish, happily in their new home! (Plants to follow later this week.)

Thursday, already? Lucy celebrated with the final slice of her birthday cake for breakfast!

Working on those monkey bar skills!

Ta-daa! The amazing grip-strength Lucy!

Wrapping up the week the same way it started.

So many beautiful cactus flowers abloom!

Arlo left me a secret note, and a corresponding code on the red (orange) chair... to come sit with him and practice piano!

Lucy. Have you been eating M&Ms?

Taking inspiration from her brother, Lucy is really into the piano now, too! Same music and everything!

Bangkok Week 881

May 15, 2025

It’s been unseasonably rainy this week! Downpours all day, every day. Nevertheless, we have fun! A great play date with Fuku and his family on Saturday; a special after-school treat on Monday; and the K2/Year 1 field trip on Thursday that everyone’s been looking forward to!

Welcome back! It's Day 5 of the white cactus flower.

But this little piggie is not ready to get up for school.

Arlo came in to help rouse his sister, and now they're playing cars.

A big crescent smile!

She wanted "hair like Clementine's" -- which means, a high bun.

Who's taller?

Time to check in the Lilies!

Someone's had a good Friday at school, and is ready for the weekend.

Meanwhile, the little purple cactus flower is still blooming.

Heading home on Tuk Tuk after a Friday at school/the office.

Bedtime with Dad tonight.

Did Arlo lose a tooth? No! That's just a messy chocolate breakfast!

Lucy wanted to sit and watch the baby lesson immediately after hers. We sat through about half of it!

And then as we were leaving, we ran into Arlo's friend Brooklyn (and his entire family) who were there for a make-up.

Lucy kindly brought popsicles back for herself and her brother.

Learning how to use their lungs.

Hanging out with Brooklyn (who's still there) before Arlo's lesson starts.

Riding their bikes...

... while waiting for Fuku's family to arrive.

Waiting patiently at the front of the Moo Baan.

And wasting no time, the boys set off to work.

Concentrating hard on this 100+ piece puzzle.

Coming along.

Almost done!

Mission accomplished!

And now, it's time for dinner (and a very, very heavy rainstorm).

Lucy played with Yoshi more this visit.

All the monkeys (except the littlest), trying to wait out the rain.

Sunday morning special: breakfast with Peppa.

Have we mentioned that we have a papaya problem?

Heading with Dad to the doctor's, to check on her nose...

... while Arlo goes to Piano.

He enjoys playing the grand piano in the lobby.

Inspired by Lucy's balloon bear, Arlo decides to make his own creation.

After discussing photo copiers over lunch, demonstrating what happens when you copy items.

The attitude is starting.

It's been another super rainy afternoon; but at least we can tromp through some muddy puddles now.

"I like walking in muddy puddles."

It was a good idea that fell apart in execution: she thought she found a hiding spot for hide-and-seek.

Here are these two, "hiding" from Mum & Dad.

Lucy rediscovered her baby bathtub.

The first positive bath time in days.

Making a transformer out of entire cars.

It's Monday! Welcome back to school!

And it's a special Monday to boot: a holiday for almost all the parents!

But again, it rained all morning...

... and so the yard was filled with muddy puddles.

We have less than an hour until we have to go get Arlo: so let's practice our face painting!

Dog? Cat? Bandit? Black eyes!?!

And then, another after-school special at Swensen's.

It was mint chocolate chip for everyone today!

Since when did puppies like mint?

And then the storms came back, and we got stuck in front of the house in the red car.

Lucy got her revenge.

Although I must say, she's a natural at doing face paint!

We need to bring in a labeled lunch box for Arlo's field trip on Thursday.

So Arlo's making the name labels himself.

Ready! (Although Meeka will pack her own lunch, since it'll be chicken burgers.)

Then he realized these label papers are fun, so it turned into a band-aid production.

Home-made band-aids for all!

An indoor water balloon - this will end well!

Somehow, the face paint really adhered to Lucy's eyebrows, making them darker than ususal!

Bedtime with Dad, whose poor glasses frame just snapped mid-arm.

Another soggy and rainy morning, so we're playing on the nursery side.

Arlo does not remember this water column from Blu Bam Boo.

Making our way across to Arlo's side.

Thankfully, the rain stopped in time to do football outside.

They played a very cute game, where the scoring team needs to "huddle" after each goal.

The bathtub has not lost its holding power yet.

Matching monkeys.

Lucy's grabbing about 5 pairs of tops, 5 bottoms, and 5 undies to bring downstairs. "I need all the things!"

Arlo's found a new favorite breakfast -- milo balls in milk -- while Lucy cant stop inflating balloons.

Practicing his Thai, slowly but surely.

It's the 20th today! How old does that make this big boy? I'm losing count!

Of course, Lucy needed a tree photo too.

Special evening: mini-Magnum for dessert!

Another rainy night and sleepy morning.

But once up, Lucy's ready to seize the day.

She's conquered her fears about dropping off the bar, and so can now go up and down all by herself.

Just hanging out with Arlo's classmates.

And climbing the tree house.

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

Lilies are all ready to go!

Lucky Mum gets to chaperone this time; this may be the last time you see us!

And we're off - in our van of Monkey Boys!

We've arrived at MOCA - the Museum of Contemporary Art.

"Waiting" "patiently" for everyone to check their bags and line up!

The first exhibit was a temporary show by "MRKREME" of colorful sculptures and videos.

Everyone was transfixed by the melting sculpture video.

Not letting these 3 boys out of arms length - poor them!

The bum that captured the imagination.

Drawing one piece of art of their choosing.

Checking out the bum one last time.

And then it was upstairs to the traditional Thai masks & puppets.

Drawing the masks.

Perhaps this parent was an immature influence on these K2s.

Got a good work-out lifting almost all of the 30 children to look through the mask.

Taking in the giant bug in the entrance, on the way out.

And finally, a picnic lunch at Rot Fai Park.

For about 7 blissful minutes, it was silent.

And they all claimed that the chicken burgers were better than in the classroom!

A few minutes to run around until the skies opened up.

Heading back to the vans, after camping in the toilets for the heaviest of the rain.

We made it!

Meanwhile, it turns out that Lucy was the "teacher" today at school.

She read a book to her class(mates), while no one paid attention.

Special treat waiting for Arlo & Lucy at home.

What turns out to be a very fun motorcycle toy.

But there's nothing like a good old game of marbles.

Bangkok Week 880

May 8, 2025

What a busy week + long weekend! We start with book character day (cue Piggie, Gerald, and Pigeon); and then enjoy a weekend playdate with Nimo; a trip to the Aquarium (the first time in 5 years); and the start of a very early rainy season!

It's the day we've been waiting for (for a week): book character day!

Originally, these two were going as a duo...

... but we added Piggie & Gerald's distant cousin, Pigeon, at the last minute.

Thanks to the official school photographer - we got some good photos!

Piggie, Gerald & Pigeon.

A few more photos while the hats stayed on.

The K1's have been reading Elephant & Piggie, so it's possible they recognized Gerald.

Piggie and a friendly mouse!

Four friendly animals.

Meanwhile, the pink cactus flower is about to bloom.

And there it is!

Piggie showing it off; it matches her outfit.

Enjoying dessert on the stairs like the good old days.

Dancing with the little LEDs from Taiwanese lanters.

Hiding on Saturday morning.

Spotted a new art kit, and wasted no time busting it open.

Glitter glue, pompoms, sequins, and more!

Arlo made himself into an angler fish!

A quick swim for Lucy (her worst one yet, for sure; she did exactly the opposite of what the teacher asked the whole time.)

Helping herself to snacks.

Meanwhile, Arlo had the whole pool to himself.

45 minutes of non-stop swimming!

That popsicle is surely well-earned.

Relaxing at the playground...

... before the rains came!

Sleepy Sunday: someone doesn't want to get up!

Inspecting her egg really well.

Cheek full of egg, while Arlo enjoys his joke.

Enjoying the playground, while Mum & Arlo get ready for (and go to) Piano.

Off to the "ice cream store" by tuk tuk.

(It was really Max Valu, but as far as Lucy's concerned, it's an ice cream store.)

Oh my; that went south quickly.

In a freak incident, we found one fish swimming by itself in this plastic container! So, Arlo's pouring it back in with its friends.

A late-afternoon playdate & swim with Nimo.

Lucy's idea to "ride the horse" together.

Cheese! (Long weekend!)

It's Monday, and we're going on an adventure!

Taking the BTS all the way to Siam.

(Enjoying her seat privilege; good thing there were no monks on the train!)

And waiting patiently for Paragon to open at 10.

Door busters at the aquarium!

We hadn't been since the height of COVID...

Arlo's super into deep-sea right now, and so he definitely enjoyed the whole thing (even though it only featured sunlit zone fish).

Touching a starfish.

It took Lucy two tries, and a *lot* of observing other kids, before she was ready to do it herself.

There's a nice jellyfish zone, which is new since we last went.

They enjoyed the giant tank...

... but like last time, the shark tunnel is the star attraction.

The Sawfish (a.k.a. Carpenter Shark) was our favorite.

This guy's got his eye on Arlo.

A little bit homely, this shark.

This particular shark is much cuter.

These penguins used to have nice deep water in their enclosure; wonder what happened.

Listening to the sounds of the various sealife.

And then it's part-way back on the BTS, to have lunch at IKEA.

But, sigh. It's impossible to leave IKEA empty-handed. We should know not to go there.

Someone is very, very pleased with his snake. (Whose name is Boa...)

Boa's first tuk-tuk ride.

Who's taller?

In other news, this spiky cactus is blooming again! These fabulous white flowers stay in bloom for days.

Finding and identifying Boa in Picturepedia.

These bubble guns from Auntie Jas & Uncle Josh have made a real comeback!

And enjoying some late afternoon cycling in the sois around our Moo Baan.

Reading his phonics book to Lucy before bed.

Playing a game of Code Breaker with Boa on his team.

Dad rescued the papayas from these 6 munchers!

Can't get ready for school without playing a game of memory with her octapus.

It's a soggy, rainy morning; so we're playing indoors on Lucy's side instead.

Queueing up for breakfast.

Someone hides in this nest and refuses to leave school at the end of the day.

Doing the recycling we forgot to do this morning when it was so wet.

Day 2!

Thankfully, the grass dried up enough to have football outside.

Enjoying their ice creams.

Shh, don't tell Arlo!

I didn't realize that school was clothing-optional today!

Adopted two new children today.

This cactus might finally be too tall for itself!

Day 3!

Delicious new mango popsicles.

Comparing and analyzing.

Peeling their own eggs for brekkie.

Potato chips for breakfast!? (Why not!)

The neighborhood squirrels now queue up as well.

Have I mentioned that we have a papaya problem?

Day 4!

Enjoying their fresh chocolate bananas.

A very serious painter...

... and a very thoughtful student.

Smirking at his own idea.

"Get betr Tichr Selly" who was out sick today.

Bangkok Week 879

May 1, 2025

May is here! And it’s another busy week! At school, it’s book week, so there are lots of morning activities and stay-and-play on both sides. Plus, operation papaya continues in full force!

Matching undies!

Standing on the swing? Maybe we've gotten too comfortable at school.

Lucy would be happy to attend school on this side.

End of school, end of week energy!

Lucy also likes to peek into the school van to see her friends and say good-bye before it leaves.

Friday afternoon tuk-tuk ride to head home.

The aftermath of her updo.

Had to trim a branch off the giant tree, so that the awning could be opened properly.

A tiny bloom on an already nicely purple plant.

Off to swimming!

Inventorying all the rubber "duckies".

Getting confident climbing the gate.

Arlo's invitation to the stay-and-play event next Tuesday.

Showing off all the cool stickers he's gotten at piano class.

And Lucy's got a new bike! She still needs to grow another 2-3 cm in order to use it safely, but I'm sure that'll be soon enough.

Energizing before swimming.

Lucy no longer naps (her definitive decision). So there's a lot of time to fill during Arlo's swimming lesson!

Enjoying the popsicles that Arlo brought back from swimming.

Operation papaya continues!

Most of the big-ish guys have been repotted into their own pots now.

Light puppet show in Arlo's room.

And Saturday movie night, with special guest!

Playing with cars early on Sunday.

Who dares catch the cockroach stuck on its back?

Arlo managed to do it!

Off for a new adventure while Mum & Arlo are at piano.

The "ice cream store"! (She means, Max Valu.)

Sitting near the window and watching the rain.

Watching a new Apple TV show, while Mum works on the Book Day hats.

These guys finally realized that they missed Songkran...

... and so they've brought out the big guns, and are heading to the pool.

Luckily for us, there was another family there with the same idea.

One on each shoulder? Maybe too tall a task.

Chocolate dorayaki for breakfast?

Another week, another recycling dump.

It's book week at school this week; so expect busy mornings!

The reading tents are set up...

... and the costumes are out.

Jordan is kindly helping fix the ears of this little red panda.

Mali and the Red Panda, helping to check in Lilies class.

Uh oh! Caught red-handed!

Another papaya height check.

Is this entire crowd heading to P'Noi's house tonight?

Octopus hugging two hedgehogs with his many arms.

Spotted on the counter late at night.

On Lucy's side on Tuesday morning, where the entire "We're Going on a Bear Hunt" story had been reconstructed.

Happily posing with the giant "frightening" bear.

Splish splosh, splish splosh!

Stumble trip, stumble trip!

Quick! Under the covers!

And then it was back to Arlo's side...

... for the annual Stay-and-Play morning. (His forth and last!)

So much to look at in the learning journey... and not nearly enough time!

Looking at all the planes they made last week.

Getting our hands dirty with clay.

All parents getting into it.

Performing their class poem.

Aww, we will miss this class!

Papayas from above!

Someone doesn't want to go home.

The lotus is somehow still alive... and blooming!

On a whim, made a costume for myself for book week this Friday. Recognize this cheeky pigeon?

We're all set!

Trying on the hats to make sure they fit.

Arlo really wants his to be a mask.

Everyone face-painted each other.

No naps means a much tougher Lucy to wake up in the morning.

Someone got an idea!

Why not draw an emoji on his banana?

Ta-daa!

This morning, it's Stay-and-Play in Lucy's class...

... so it's only a quick 15 minutes on Arlo's side, before we switch sides.

The honorary member of Lilies.

Looking through Lucy's learning journey (which is almost full up!)

She really wanted to show us the dark room.

Enjoying mangoes together.

And then it's showtime!

Four of Lucy's classmates performed the "3 little pigs" for everyone.

And then we all did the "Bear Hunt" course, before heading home.

Biiiiiig hug good-bye, after this special morning!

Uh oh! These two have rediscovered the bubble guns from Auntie Jas & Uncle Josh!

Bubbles galore!

It's (unofficial) Moo Deng day!

But it's also an indoor morning, thanks to the very heavy rains that lasted until about 7:30am.

Lucy's getting pinched by a beetle!

Oh no! The tiger is back! And what has it done with Lucy?

The tiger seems surprised to see herself in the camera, too!

It's a holiday for Mum today, so we're celebrating with a special after-school treat.

Ice cream...

... and a bike ride.

(Thomas and Nancy are giving Lucy a really good stare.)

We're ready for book character dress-up day tomorrow! See you then!

Bangkok Week 878

April 24, 2025

The best thing about traveling is coming home! While they miss Sydney, these two are also happy to be home, and have slotted back into routine so well. It’s back to school, back to work, back to fun!

Back at home, and enjoying (Dad's) muesli. It's good to be back!

But oh my, how the papayas have grown!

Refamiliarizing themselves with their toys.

Back to swimming for Lucy!

Arlo's happy to be back, too.

And a short detour to the post office, to send souvenirs to Trat.

Stopping for a selfie with the transformer along the way.

Making poor K. Wan read about deep sea creatures, while she's meant to be ironing.

Lucy's discovering novel ways to wash her hands.

Reconnecting with their bikes.

No sooner are we back, than it's Easter!

Look at these cute koalas, safeguarding the eggs.

That's a clever place for an Easter Egg, bunny!

Lucy doesn't want to wake up; and she doesn't remember what Easter is all about so that's not enticing.

Arlo was quick to pick up from last year...

... and Lucy was quick to catch on.

Excited by her find.

Counting the eggs and putting them in a communal cup.

Arlo wanted to know why ocean water is salty, if we can't see the salt. So here he is, dissolving some himself.

Lucy! Time for a haircut before we go back to school!

The finished product! We took a good couple inches off.

This week, while Mum & Arlo went to piano...

... Lucy and Dad headed to a plant store, to buy some more pots for the papayas..

And then stopped at the peacock cafe on the way home.

Lucy also turns 3 years and 1 month old today.

These are the most mature of the papayas. The ring leader is getting tall!

And it's time for a swim!

Diving for rings, and discussing midnight zone, with the next door neighbor.

What a look, Lucy!

A week's worth of recycling to get rid of.

And then it's back to school, at long last!

Jumping right back into the swing of things.

Knock on wood, but Lucy is much less clingy than she was at the end of Term 2.

Here she is, bouncing on the trampoline while riding a bike.

She scored herself in the goal!

Hanging out with her new BFF.

Rockin' the stylish nursery look.

Beautiful sunset.

Arlo's trying to repair a stuck wheel on one of the bikes.

Just hanging out... but oh-so-sweaty after only a few minutes!

Fun at football.

Still working on home renovations.

Showing off the collection of airplanes he made at school earlier in the week.

(It's quite the collection for only having been back a few days.)

The tall papaya tree is taller than Arlo now!

Playing with the neighborhood kids.

A queue for the bird feeder.

A car carrier?

Drive carefully.

Lucy brought home a library book that we have already (Peppa Goes Ice Skating) and is comparing the two copies.

Meanwhile, this guy is excited for the new gummies.

Special ice cream for dinner.

Sneaking in an evening bike ride.

It's millipede season!

Good night and see you next week!

1 week in Sydney

April 18, 2025

This year for Songkran, we enjoyed a fantastic week in Sydney, Australia! 🐨 🦘 🇦🇺 ☀️. The weather cooperated the whole time, and we basically spent the entire 7 days outside… except when we slept at night! We all enjoyed the fresh air, the cool breeze, the different birds, the funny trees. And (to quote Arlo), people spoke English! Sydney lived up to the hype, and we’d happily go back again!

Here we are! The time has come! (Not so) patiently waiting at the airport for our night flight to Sydney.

These two were really monkeying out in the Thai Lounge. They don't realize how lucky they are that they can get in for free still!

Arlo and his new face.

Wasting no time: plugging in and turning on Moana, before the flight was even finished boarding.

"Are we landing now?" "We haven't even left the gate yet, Lucy."

One down, less than an hour into the flight.

Prepping for beauty rest.

A bit of brekkie before landing.

We made it out, with our bags and everyone. Now for the train!

Checking the map...

... and enjoying the view from the upstairs of the double-decker train.

We made it to our neighborhood, and Arlo is very excited to see the giant ibis birds for the first time.

We're about 90 minutes too early to check into our AirBnB, so we're enjoying the local playground.

We're lucky to be stationed right next to such a nice playground.

Good climbing, Lucy!

May as well eat lunch while we wait: fries and gozleme, a distinctly Australian (Turkish) favorite.

This playground has great swings, in addition to a great slide.

It's a race!

It's 2pm, and we're allowed into our AirBnB!

And then we're off on a leisurely stroll toward the Opera House.

Beautiful, tree-lined streets.

I'd forgotten how very hilly Sydney is!!

Finger Wharf.

These two troopers are still in good spirits (and energy... and airplane clothes).

Cutting through the Art Gallery of NSW.

Encountering these giant pincushion cactuses at the entrance to the Botanic Gardens.

Arlo immediately started spotting, and collecting, all the "funny" things that fall from trees in Australia.

Peeling bark!

And Arlo's first look at cockatoos - the birds he would come to love.

This particular group of cockatoos (and ibises) were very comfortable around people.

Observing from a distance at first.

This one wanted to come get a closer look at Lucy.

Selfie with the cockatoo!

Now he's enjoying himself.

Catching on to how tame they are.

Hello handsome.

Lucy is less sure.

Feeding them grass by this point, I think.

Who needs a zoo when these funny birds are right here in the parks?

Another one on mum; must smell the spilled airplane food!

Wiping hands really well after that adventure.

Ginormous tree (so big and old, it's roped off).

These two were insisting on ice cream, so we stopped at the first gelato place we found. And it was the drippiest cone we've ever seen!

We made it! Try explaining to Arlo why this particular opera house is so famous.

It's end-of-day lighting at this point, but still not a bad sky!

There was a different cruise ship parked at Circular Quay every day.

From behind the Opera House.

Sydney Harbor Bridge! Arlo really wanted to do the bridge climb. You need to be 8 years old!

Heading home the way we came. The cones from the Banksia trees are particularly interesting.

Early evening over the CBD. (As we hike back up that staircase.)

Saturday morning breakfast, after a great sleep for everyone.

Heading by train to Redfern, and then onward to the Carriageworks Farmers Market.

It's a ~10 minute walk; good job walking, Arlo!

Here we are, at the site of a 19th century rail yard.

The Farmers' Market is a classic.

Arlo posing with some Lilies (his classmates!)

Lucy and I bought cherry tomatoes (what she's got in her cheek pouches), a giant bunch of kale, and beet roots. Dinner will be delish!

Stopping to enjoy the tomatoes.

A tiny inch work that crawled out of the kale is quite the source of entertainment!

Cold pressed juices before heading on our way.

Heading by foot to Darling Harbor.

(Real) Birds of Paradise were all over.

Here we are! We've read about a wonderful children's play area here....

... and even the fountains leading up to it were enticing.

This huge water play area did not disappoint!

They had all sorts of mechanisms to control the water flow.

Arlo was really into all the mechanical water devices.

Lucy, on the other hand, preferred to play in the dry area -- which was equally as expansive.

(For its size, this slide was deceptively slow. Wearing shorts probably didn't help.)

There's another water play area -- basically a giant wading fountain. Lucy daintily waded through.

Does she dare walk under the tunnel of water?

(Lucy's favorite pose throughout the trip.)

There she goes!

Yet another playground zone.

She was pretty fearless, climbing up all by herself.

Down the giant slide.

Here's a standing swing!

After lunch, Arlo found the giant wading fountain too, and went all-in!

Lucy's really thinking hard about what her brother is doing.

Still taking pains to stay dry.

Past the point of no return now.

Well, they enjoyed this!

With a new set of warm, dry clothes on, it's time to enjoy some snacks.

Cheese! What an amazing public park!

Popping into the Australia Museum on the way home.

First up are the birds of Australia.

The birds of Sydney -- nicely taxidermied and behind glass.

And an interactive dinosaur exhibit.

Two little paleontologists excavating for dino fossils.

In another interactive zone, checking out eels of Australia...

... and beetles.

Tracing, coloring, and cutting out feathers to attach to the big owl.

Sticking hers on, with the help of a staff member.

Photo with this taxidermied koala, in case we don't see any others this trip!

Their new favorite fruit: raspberries! They consumed one whole box every night!

Saturday movie night -- continues even in Australia.

It's Sunday morning, and so we're off to Bondi Beach!

Here we are! It's as picturesque (and hot!) as ever!

The Sydney surfers are out in full force.

Arlo really wanted to jump the waves; who were we to say no.

But the waves here were much larger and much stronger than Rayong waves! So no going in past the ankles.

So much fun! Could stay all day.

Jump shot!

Meanwhile, Lucy was not into the waves at all.

She preferred to stay back behind the rocks.

Looking for shells (they were sparse). We did find a lovely piece of sea glass.

No water in the Bondi Icebergs pool today; too bad!

Heading off on the coastal walk; Arlo's showing off his sea glass (which, ultimately, got lost again).

So warm!

Last time we were here, we saw dolphins; not so today, but it's still breathtakingly beautiful!

Arlo felt like he was on the moon.

Watching the waves and the surfers.

Stopping for ice cream and some shade at Tamarama Beach.

We made it to Bronte Beach! I think that's as far as we'll get today.

Then we headed to Centennial Park (kind of like the High Park of Sydney)...

...for the The Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden.

It had a different, forest vibe (vs. the play area we'd gone to the day before).

Lucy climbing up through the bamboo, to to the top of a giant slide.

Mum's pants made the slide especially fast!

It's definitely a less refined way to play.

And back at our home stomping ground.

An evening hello to the local ibises.

It's Monday morning, and we're heading west: to Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, about 45 min west of central Sydney.

This place features only Australian wildlife.

You can get up close with the Wallabies and Kangaroos (if they're up for it).

Lucy really liked this.

A mama and her joey.

I think they were all pretty full though, since everyone was feeding them.

Next up: the koalas!

This guy was alert, awake, and making his way up to a comfier spot in the tree.

Selfie with this sleeping beauty.

Measuring up.

(It's the 14th; this is Arlo's tree photo for the month!)

Saying hi to the local penguins.

And seeing echidnas for the first time.

A tasmanian devil...

... and the dangerous cassowary.

More roos, sleeping on a hot afternoon.

Saying hi to a goose...

... who seems content eating the kangaroo food.

Collecting stamps as we visit the different animals.

This guy's really into snakes these days, too.

Tree kangaroo.

And watching lunchtime for the crocodile.

Hanging out with the wallabies and roos one last time before heading back.

Bye bye, wombat!

Heading back to Sydney...

Arlo wanted to sit on the lower floor this time, to get a better view of the rails and underneath the platform.

... catching up on some sleep as we reach the city.

Late afternoon walk around Circular Quay, after getting back.

Great views from the west side!

Totally blocking his sister.

We were there to see these tiny tug boats pulling this giant cruise ship back out into the harbor.

Walking through The Rocks (which is very quiet on a Monday afternoon!)

Delicious and well-earned ice cream break before heading home.

Dinner time!

Trying a plum. (Verdict: not as good as raspberries.)

He took pen to paper, to draw about what he saw today.

View from our AirBnB on Tuesday morning.

Today's our day for meeting people!

First, we met our former neighbor from Ekkamai, P'Noo and her partner.

Checked out several of the fancy boats docked at the piers.

Look at the tall trees!

And this funny tree, whose branches grow straight up!

Waiting to catch the ferry from Double Bay back to Circular Quay.

Here we go, first time on the ferry!

Arlo decided he didn't like it, because he got splashed.

Classic views though!

Checking out the transit map.

Quick stop at Customs House, to see the cool 3D model of Sydney under the floors.

They got a kick out of this!

Next stop: a quick pop up to the BCG office...

... great views!...

... and a picnic lunch with a collague.

Look how small this tree made us!

Heading into the Art Gallery of NSW on the way home.

It would be a stretch to say that Arlo found it barely interesting.

But we did find Granny!

The saving grace was a fantastic children's library in the basement.

It had a fantastic reading area, and so many kids' books (Australian and International authors). Plus tables to draw.

These two would've happily stayed to read all afternoon.

But we had one more visit to make!

Ice Cream with Captain Ron!

High school classmates who found themselves in Sydney at the same time.

The skies opened up, but that didn't stop these two from playing.

Good thing those raincoats from Granny still "fit"!

It's Wednesday: our second-to-last full day here. And we're off to Watsons Bay.

The "Gap Bluff" is breathtaking!

Posing with the "Wreck of the Dunbar".

The landscapes (rockscapes) up here overlooking the ocean were moon-like.

The hairbrush-like banksia cones.

Having fun exploring the moon.

At the edge of the world!

Looking for teeny tiny treasures.

Arlo's very good at finding them!

See any whales?

Dramatic seascapes -- even more so thanks to the overcast skies.

Now heading north, toward the tip of the peninsula.

Stunning!

But you wouldn't want to be down there caught between the waves and the rocks!

Snack break!

(These salted almonds were a lifesaver!)

Beautiful views back toward downtown Sydney!

Continuing along the walking path.

It's a bit of an uphill scramble as we head toward Horny Lighthouse.

Checking out all the different fish, and the legal catch size.

A local granny out with her two grandsons offered to take photos for us -- and photos did she take!

Dancing on the edge of the world!

Almost at the lighthouse.

This is the light keeper's house!

And here we are! Hornby Lighthouse, with its fresh coat of paint.

Almost feels like the end of the world here.

Of course, the only other tourists at the lighthouse with us were Thai.

Great day for sailing!

Lunch back at Camp Cove Beach: a perfect little beach really.

And a cafe with a view!

The view is great, and the waves not too large or strong.

Lucy's totally comfortable in her undies; this country is made for her.

Playing with the muddy sand, since there really aren't waves to jump here.

Drawing the proverbial line in the sand.

Oh no! Arlo lost his feet!

Checking out this poor fish who washed up on the beach.

Would come back here!

Scenic views from Watsons Bay Beach...

... before hopping on a ferry back to Circular Quay. A surprisingly nice outing!

The wind at the front of the ferry was *intense*!

Even at the side of the ferry, no hair was safe.

But you can't beat the views of Sydney Harbor!

We thought we saw the Opera House seal on the way back in, so we went to check.

Yes! He's there today!

Wonder if it's the same seal from 2017?

Arlo was entertained.

Few more pics with the Opera House -- not sure if we'll be back here tomorrow.

New day, new cruise ship!

And then jumping on the light rail / tram to Chinatown.

Observing the rails as we go.

Souvenirs for Arlo and Lucy: check!

Meet Cockatoo and Koalee (replacement for poor Wawa).

They're happy!

Quick stroll through Chinatown on our way back.

Playing at the playground until sunset.

Dramatic view from our apartment.

Everyone pile in for bedtime stories!

Oh no, it's our last full day here!

Tree Kangaroo, living up to its name.

What's this? A wild turkey?

Getting up close to check it out.

More roos and wallabies here.

Why hello, Emu!

There were several koalas here too, of course.

One of which was awake and on the move.

Didn't realize I had birds on my head!

Piling in for the packed seal show! (I guess that's what you get during the Easter holidays!)

It was short and sweet. (The line might have been longer!)

Saying hi to Pak Boong and Taengmo, who hail from Thailand; and are about to be rehomed to another Australian zoo to join a larger herd of Asian Elephants.

Then, the free flight bird show -- with a view!

Watch your heads!

Arlo found it pretty fun!

Trying on the ears of a fennec fox.

And Arlo's perennial fave, the meerkat.

Lunch break! (Arlo & Lucy have sampled all the fries in Sydney by now.)

The snakes don't cease to entertain!

Interactive game of sorts... but it was here that we met one of the other Arlo's!

Why not try my hand(s) (and feet)?

Quokka quokka!

There was a nice playground in the kids' zoo area.

And again, Lucy didn't hesitate to jump right in.

But the main attraction was this water play area.

It started reasonably at first.

But things took a turn when Lucy decided it was better to be naked than get her clothes wet!

Good thing we're in Australia!!

(Does anyone belong to this girl?)

It was a long day, and we're heading back on our last ferry ride of the trip.

Good bye, Sydney Harbor bridge!

Good bye, bridge climbers!

Last ice cream of the trip!

Bye bye, Opera House!

Bye bye, Ibis!

Bye bye, Lorikeets!

It is a very fine Friday for our last morning in Sydney. A tease, really.

Outside our AirBnB for the last time.

A quick pop down to Beare Park.

Which is famous for its drinking fountain -- a historical landmark.

And one last play at the neighborhood playground, before heading to the airport.

Arlo and his new favorite bird.

Good bye, swing!

Seeing the fountain on for the first time! (I guess because we're early enough.)

And back to Sydney Kingsford Smith we go.

Arlo and Dad enjoyed fries and the McD play area...

... while Mum & Lucy enjoyed the lounge.

Posing with the "purple plane". (The only kind she wants to fly!)

Back on our A350, and back on go the headphones.

Get ready for the day flight!

The meals were decent, and they actually ate some.

And finally caught a bit of rest.

Bangkok Week 876

April 10, 2025

We celebrate Songkran at school; and then the kids start their 2-week school holiday. We swim, we bike, we transplant some papayas. And we get ready to head to Sydney on Thursday night!

Happy Songkran! (At school, anyway.)

Arlo has been waiting all year to use this bucket!

The day starts out respectfully enough.

Practicing filling his giant jug. (To help refill the water for the merit-making.)

Paying respect to Dad.

Lucy and her best friend from Arlo's class.

She wanted to bring the old peanut butter container, but then insisted we take it home with us.

Merit-making on Lucy's side.

Time to go home for the holiday break!

Actually, Arlo's dismissal is only an hour after Lucy's today. So we're just waiting on his side.

Running around with another girl from her class who has an older brother on this side, too.

Monkey Lucy is probably luring her friend into things she wouldn't otherwise do.

Backward sliding. Because why not.

Aww. It's only taken two whole terms, but Lucy is finally happy to be friends with Teacher Selly.

Really not sure what's going on here.

One day, Lucy will be sorry when her face gets stuck in this new favorite position.

Arlo's wearing his Moo Deng shirt for the first time.

Saturday (Holiday?) Special: Joke for breakfast.

Biking around the Moo Baan.

A statue at the entrance. I've never noticed it before!

And another statue!

Time to go to swimming!

Working on the never-ending Papaya Project.

Late afternoon bike ride...

... and football practice.

Lucy's taking an interest in ping pong, too.

What it would look like if Lucy were the taller one.

This is a photo by Lucy, of her brother.

Donut cheers!

Someone's dressing herself today.

Bubbles...

... and ice pops.

Two flowers about to bloom; but look closely and see so many more buds!

Dad and Lucy are off to a make-up swim, while Mum & Arlo head to Piano.

The biggest of the papayas is doing well!

Hmm! Here's who's making all the mess at the feeder.

Fast asleep in her nap. But we have fun places to go!

We're going cycling at Benjakitti Forest Park!

There's a beautiful, 2.5km bike loop around the perimeter of the park.

And it's Lucy's first time biking outside the Moo Baan.

Lucy's doing a super job!

Resting for water and shade.

Cruising around in a sun dress and Mum's shades; what a kool kat.

The playground is in much better shape than when we went over the New Years holiday.

The giant blue slide is now open!

And the obstacle course is still fun.

Mister Spider...

... of course, Lucy had to give it a try as well.

She made a very commendable attempt.

Even the swings are back now!

Observing the wildlife before we head home.

What a really very giant lotus leaf!

Bedtime is Peppa Pig time these days!

Excited for his new Uniqlo undies.

At long last, it's the dentist appointment that we should've had months ago.

And then waiting patiently for Arlo's flu vaccine.

Noodles for lunch!

And a swim in the neighborhood pool for the first time in a while.

Enjoying bananas.

Running slow-mo into the fan.

Watching a nature show on Apple TV.

Okay, better to sit down!

The two flowers are blooming!

And Operation Papaya clearly has another mission coming up -- once we return.

The aftermath of Lucy's top-knot.

Dad's being interviewed on live radio!

Testing the new second-hand stroller to make sure Arlo fits in it, before we bring it all the way to Sydney!

Enjoying the beautiful, multi-day blooms before we go.

And doing some light gardening to make sure that the papayas are set up for success while we're away: like transplanting this guy to a bigger pot.

Oh my! Look at all the roots!

Stay safe, stay healthy, papayas! See you in a week!

Bangkok Week 875

April 3, 2025

We begin this week with the biggest of surprises: the strongest earthquake to shake Bangkok in the memory of most (if not all) residents. And so, after keeping a low-key weekend, we roll into another high-energy, high-activity week at school, in the lead-up to the Songkran break.

For better or worse (better, as far as Lucy's concerned) we now have two forward-facing children!

Off to the office, via the new tower at the corner of Ekkamai and Sukhumvit, which is now open!

APAC Tower - glad they feel comfortable using the name!

Friday pickup at 1pm, with Dad only today.

Enjoying her new view.

Fast-forward to 1:25pm; this is no longer a normal Friday at the office!

49 flights of stairs later, meeting all of Bangkok on the sidewalks of Sukhumvit.

To say the city was gridlocked would be an understatement!

Back at home, Lucy and some neighbors busted out the chalk, since they had to be outside anyway.

Everyone's home and accounted for... so why not play some football?

And ride some bike on "solid" ground.

Very proud of her "pedal stand" (not kick stand).

She's getting good at making her "pedal stand" work!

Defiantly eating rich chocolate cookies in her undies for breakfast.

Excited to have broken the code in 3 moves.

Really getting into the foil crafting kit from India.

Showing off his creation.

Oh no! I think we have a problem on our hands. Look at all these new papayas!

No swimming for Lucy (and her runny nose) today, so we head out for ice cream instead. Because why not.

Arlo's favorite flavor - bubble gum.

Sigh. What a tough morning.

This dolphin is enjoying his lesson though. (Fueled by ice cream...)

Repotting the largest of the papayas, into the new pot we just bought from the back of a truck.

This is one way to defend your goal.

Mum might be one of the easiest people in town to score against.

Trying on our Songkran shirts to make sure they'll fit for one more year.

Arlo's got a rather bright red rudolph nose, thanks to a ball that Mum kicked in his face.

Up-close of the poor, crowded papayas.

It was a small piano class this week: only 3 students.

Meanwhile, Dad & Lucy took a tuk tuk to the peacock cafe.

Not a bad way to spend the morning.

And hey, the peacock even felt like showing off.

The cactus with a pink flower is blooming for the first time in almost a year.

Someone's decided to start making a wish list for his birthday.

Trying to capture "flying" before bath time.

A quick code breaker before bed.

Uh oh! It's another special themed week at school this week!

This time, it's "Len Duay Gan", or "Let's Play!"

In celebration of the upcoming Thai New Year, it's traditional games and activities all week!

A high swing for Lucy.

Someone saw flags on the face paint box, and decided she wanted them. Go Brazil!

Practicing both shooting and goal-keeping at once.

I almost thought Lucy had disappeared when I opened the door to her room!

Chickens at school? I wonder which grade they're in.

And traditional shadow puppet show.

And spinning tops.

Meanwhile, on Lucy's side, it was a full-on floating market!

Picking which sweet sugary snack she'd like at 9 o'clock in the morning.

Syrup ice!

And syrup popsicle!

Not a bad way to start the day, especially when the sugar's not my problem!

Afternoon fun: enjoying the leftover ice from the morning.

Water color painting.

Observing the cheeky squirrel, who is the most frequent customer at the bird feeder.

A new (old) collection of Lego for Arlo and Lucy!

Watch your feet!

Another enthusiastic morning.

Hippo hug!

Making floral arrangements.

Traditional Thai band. (Cover your ears.)

Two cute, matching "red heads".

Enthusiastically showing off the house he made with the new legos.

One last morning of pre-Songkran fun. Today, the kites are out.

And the (not so) air hockey.

They've garnered an audience!

And bamboo vehicles.

Arlo is very proud of his creations.

Time to go test them!

And on Lucy's side, we arrive just in time to play Thai duck duck goose.

After school on Thursday, packing up the chickens to send them "back to the farm."

Safe drive, chicken!

We moved several papayas last weekend, but somehow, the original container is still full!

Speaking of hippos, working nicely together on a new hippo activity book.

Good night! See you next week!

Bangkok Week 874

March 27, 2025

Despite renewed poor air quality, it’s another busy week! We visit a fun fair at another school; have Lucy’s closest classmates over for lunch; and learn that we can use Lucy’s new bed as a springboard to take flight!

A sleepy good morning from the new 3-year-old, who is "fast asleep" with her new sleeping bear.

For breakfast today, we have ice cream cake...

... and cupcakes!

Doing our part bringing in our recycling.

Special Friday treat: tuk tuk ride home!

Who's this? I thought I brought home a clean-faced girl!

Special Friday evening visit from Mum's colleague from India.

They brought this neat foil crafting kit, which was a big hit!

A quick stop at the playground.

And some photos of the children.

Two proper ladies.

Come again!

Lucy and her new bestie, sleeping in on Saturday morning.

Starting the day with a few games of Code Breaker...

... which then morphed into "busy fingers".

Rice congee for breakfast!

Off to swimming in style, with her bestie.

Meanwhile, Arlo helped dad do some shopping.

Excited by the frozen dry ice (mixed with water) from the day before.

Time to work on our cactuses.

Even this red guy is full of babies ripe for replanting!

Now it's Arlo's turn to swim.

Teamwork and frog kicks.

Waiting patiently for a tuk-tuk...

... and off we go (for what ended up being a very long, slow ride.)

We're at a fair / open house at a small new international school.

They have a nice playground.

And a good, fast slide.

Hidden monkey bars, for all the monkeys.

Lucy insisted on an ice cream. Too premium for her taste!

Like brother, like Lucy.

Swing with all your body!

More sliding fun!

After watching some other kids, Arlo finally figured out how to flip upside-down.

Taking the school shuttle back to the BTS; Lucy was so thrilled to have her own seat!

Passing a giant eye in EmQuartier, on the way up to the BTS platform.

Arlo was very intrigued!

Heading home: via BTS is much faster than tuk-tuk, we learned.

Swiping out with his very own, new student rabbit card.

And the tinal leg.

Despite the very long evening already, it's never too late for Saturday movie night!

Another lazy morning with bear.

Comparing her new "Lucy" book with her existing one.

Best way to warm up the brain is with a game of memory!

Reading up on the Peacock Mantis Shrimp over breakfast -- this guy packs a punch!

And it's the play date we've been waiting for (fearing) with Lucy's friends.

There were 3 K2s in the house as well, just to add to the excitement.

The air was not great, but it helped to get outside.

Lucy lost the plot a bit.

Meanwhile, upstairs, water play was in full swing.

To say it got wild is an understatement.

The last 4 standing.

And time for ice cream (which is actually cake, but not positioned as such).

And silence descends.

Lucy biked out to say good-bye to her friends.

Lucy got a few birthday gifts, despite it not being a birthday party.

Late afternoon cycle / run, admiring the size of the setting sun down the street.

Using her "pedal stand" again (her words, not ours).

"Orange for a nose, like the Snowman!"

Mr. Studious.

Oh no! These two finally figured out that the head board of Lucy's bed is a ladder!

And they're using it to flyyyyy!

The avo is doing well! Soon time to give it a chop!

Oh dear, look at Lucy sleeping so soundly.

She's realized that giant brown bear fits comfortably in this new bed.

Night night, giant brown bear!

Playing I Spy with a napkin over breakfast.

The air's been red for days; today it's just orange, so they can stay outside for a few minutes.

Lucy found these interesting "goggles" in the dress-up box at school.

Look! The flower bloomed on this cactus for the first time in a very long time!

More flying.

What's Lucy doing, you ask?

Consult her inspiration.

Two brown bears this morning!

The early birds get the new toys at school!

Biker gang!

Oh no! So many bugs on Mum's arms!

Special treat: home via tuk tuk, after Mum's office visit.

Drawing in his notebook, in this perfectly-sized wedge of space on the bed.

New 104-piece puzzle!

Special visitor trying to make its way into the kitchen.

Bear must sleep like Lucy.

Lucy's new forward-facing car seat in the red car.

She's a big fan!

And visiting the doctor for her 3-year check-up and flu shot.

Looking a little big for that tree now, Lucy!

Happy outdoor camper.

Someone is too into her face paint.

The new football goals that Dad ordered have arrived!

And we're now competing for space in the basketball court.

Doctor's visit meant no nap today; and someone is asleep before lights-out.

Bangkok Week 873

March 20, 2025

This week packs a punch! First and foremost, Happy Birthday to our (not-so) Little Lucy, who turns 3 this week! 🎂🎈🎉. It was a fun day full of balloons and special activities (even thought all she wanted was her cake at home.) Big brother Arlo also turned 5 1/2. And we (at least, Mum and Lucy) enjoyed Crazy Hair Day and Sports Day at school. I think we all need a rest now!

Here we go, it's crazy hair time!

Investing some extra time before getting out the door this morning.

The finished product on Lucy.

And Arlo's finished hair.

It's also "Crazy Science Day".

Lots of takes on the crazy hair.

The boys.

We got one group shot. Better than none!

Then, it's across the street for Sports Day at the nursery.

I'm not sure how compatible crazy hair day and sports day are going to be.

Warming up to represent the white team.

Standing on the shapes as they're called out.

Obstacle course race (obstacles optional, according to Lucy).

Lucy's at home with the parachute.

Parents' turn: piggy back race with the kids...

... and then parents' turn without the kids at all!

Participation medals for everyone. (Remember this medal.)

Well, the clothesline didn't fare so well, but that was to be expected.

Go Buttercups!

Back at home, here is our leading papaya.

It's a chaotic day, but this boy also turns 5 1/2 today!

A brief night out to celebrate the weekend.

Posing with Arlo's favorite "Transformer" at the Pridi 31 intersection.

The avo is growing!

Mister Studious.

Helping Dad with some shopping, while Mum & Lucy are at swimming.

Child labor!

Everyone hide inside your homes!

Reading Lucy's favorite Elephant & Piggie story (about slop).

Swimming time for Arlo.

Meanwhile, Mum found a cute tiger with a bow and medal, roaming the kitchen.

Then, this tiger showed up at swimming to watch Arlo!

Territorial Arlo & Tiger.

The tiger has disappeared, but Arlo & Lucy are still really into movie night.

Fast asleep before Mum even left the room.

Someone is really into taking selfies now. (Hint: it's not Mum, despite what you may think.)

Puzzles and breakfast.

Look at this girl go!

This cool cat waits for no one.

Playing all the games, while Arlo is away at Piano.

Arlo enjoys coloring and drawing while he waits.

Like this elaborate image.

And time for a late-afternoon swim.

Cheers!

Watch out for two monkeys in the pool!

Miss Ice Pack here has found a cool new hat.

Up goes the avo!

Monday morning, everyone's happy to be back at school.

Copying her brother.

Helping clean the sand out of the pond floor.

Somersaulting by herself.

A zooming MuvMi tuk-tuk.

I think this picture speaks for itself. (Note the flying anglerfish.)

Crazy hair day may be over, but that doesn't mean the hair can't be crazy anymore!

Arlo's bringing two papaya plants to the nursery, where they will hopefully thrive in the sun.

Monkey alert!

First time Arlo's allowed inside the gym, and he's having a blast.

Evening biker gang.

Lucy's ideal morning after waking up: a game of memory and "Cattie".

Class cupcakes are ready for tomorrow!

Look at this hippo boss.

Practicing her modeling poses.

After-school climbing.

The papaya is almost as tall as Arlo!

Arlo's wrapping the birthday present he got for Lucy.

Made the tag, and ready to go!

Spying on the garbage truck from the hammock.

Literally watching time pass by.

Trying to take a photo of Lucy. Told her to "stand nicely for the camera".

Beware of this biker gang!

We're all set for the big day tomorrow!

And here's the birthday girl! Happy 3rd birthday, Lucy!

Arlo gives her his present first thing...

... and then she walks down the stairs all by herself "because I older now".

The balloons pass the test!

Happy birthday, Lucy!

Wasting no time opening some gifts, including this cute furry hippo from Granny & Grandpa...

... and what's this from Mum & Dad?

A new watch!

Putting it on right away.

And finally, opening her gift from Arlo. She loves it!

Mum and the (not so) babies!

Lucy loves her newest friends.

And Arlo loves his newest book - a consolation gift on Lucy's birthday.

New favorite book!

Focusing hard on her birthday milk.

Sneaking in a quick tree photo before school.

Walking with the confidence and outfit that only a 3-year-old can have.

Papayas are getting bigger!

And Lucy's classmates are ready for us.

Happy birthday, Lucy!

Lucy did a great job handing out cupcakes to all her friends.

Thank you for celebrating with us!

Bringing home a 3-year-old monkey for the first time.

Look at this girl, who appropriated her brother's watch too, so she can have one on each wrist.

And finally, the moment Lucy's been patiently waiting for all day: her "birthday".

Enjoy your "birthday", Lucy!

And icing on the metaphorical cake: swimming...

... and a bike ride!

And a music box. Hope you enjoyed your special day, Lucy!

Bangkok Week 872

March 13, 2025

At just shy of 3 years old, Lucy graduates from her crib to a (very) big bed! And continues to enjoy biking. Otherwise, it’s a very busy week at school, with special activities each morning on both sides. Enjoy the art, the creations, the little vendors, and the engineer-athletes!

Mum's back from India; another week in the books.

Nail polish as a souvenir for Lucy.

Perfect! (And no time to waste!)

Can you figure out what's going on in this picture?

All that swinging messed up Lucy's cute hair! Time for a re-work.

Staying awake and playing with the kindergarteners.

Careful in those shoes, Arlo!

The cactus that Arlo got for Children's Day, over a year ago, is blooming!

And it's a very unique flower, especially for a prickly cactus.

End of a long school week.

Checking on his cactus flower after getting home.

What a block city.

Someone's trying his hands at balloon art.

Proud of his creation.

Bathtub bath! First time in a while.

Saturday morning - weekend time!

Waking up the neighborhood with a bike ride and a song.

Stopping to inflate Arlo's tires.

Oh look! The avocado seed has finally sprouted!

Lucy is officially graduating into a (very) big bed today!

And big brother Arlo is helping to assemble it while she's out at swimming.

Good job, boys!

Uh oh, Lucy! What's happened to your bed?

I think she likes it!

Operation: bike wash!

Reading with Dad before nap time...

... and then with Arlo, too.

Oh, how cute. If only they were always like this!

It's Day 2, and the flower is still blooming!

An intense swim class for Lucy.

Taking themselves to the pool.

Found this one on my phone...

Movie night! We're well into March, and still watching The Snowman religiously.

Excited to watch the coffee maker (which we were helping sell for K. Noi.)

Funny-face Arlo.

Arlo and Lucy's old crib, waiting to be sold.

Happy to keep these two in the cage, until then.

Another morning, another cycle.

Just waking up the moo baan with her songs as she goes.

A triangle of catch.

Enjoying a slice of chocolate cake while Arlo's at Piano.

Said piano lesson.

Day 3, and still in full bloom!

The house in the living room is still standing.

And the avocado is growing taller.

Carefully putting up barriers in his complex block city.

Comfortably napping in her new bed.

Another late afternoon swim to cool off.

Checking on the cactus flower -- and all the other plants by extension -- on Monday morning.

It's going to be a busy week at school this week!

Every day has a different theme. Today -- Monday -- is "Let's Paint."

After a bit of hesitation, Arlo got into the chalk.

Supervisor Lucy eventually got into it, too.

Arlo's very proud of his elevator system.

Who's this crazy lady in pink hair!?

Musical chairs with paint.

Day 4, and the cactus is still going strong!

Too many papaya seedlings, and not enough room!

Ditto for the cactuses!

Working on his legos.

These two finished their dinner quickly, so there's time for a bike / jog.

Looking cute in pink.

Today's theme is "Let's Build!"

This is right up Arlo's alley.

Lucy can get into it, too.

Okay, Lucy got *too* into it!

(And too bad today is the day Mum is dressed for the office afterward!)

Lucy's washed off, and on her side now...

... where the theme seems to be, "Let's Splash"!

Well, there will be no paint left after all this water!

Meanwhile, back on Arlo's side, he's still building.

Lucy made a medal...

... and she's very proud of it!

More precision in football these days.

Day 5 for the cactus, and it's finally starting to look worse for wear.

A good Cindy Lou look here.

Today is "Let's Count and Measure", and every class has a stand set up in the Annabel's Market.

The Lilies' Lemonade Stand is open and ready for business!

These sellers are ready to make some money!

They were swarmed!

Keep your eyes on this cashier, and check his pockets!

Lucy's giving some business to Teacher Kamila's Granola-Porium.

These guys earned 505 baht in the end!

I think they're going to have a pizza party with their earnings.

We were rather late to the market on Lucy's side, thanks to the bustle on Arlo's side.

But on Lucy's side, everything was free!

New duvet cover for Lucy; she loves it!

"Helping" Ba Wan sweep the leaves outside.

Bedtime with Dad.

And Thursday is "Let's Work Together"! First job is crossing this lava flow upon entering the school.

Arlo set to work right away, building a second (and third) bridge.

The Nursery teachers came over to sneak a peek.

Once you survive the volcano, there's an obstacle course that culminates in some weight lifting.

Lucy's being shown the proper technique by a pro.

This part of the obstacle course is supposed to be a bear walk. Good thing Lucy's got a bear with her.

And hopscotch.

And jumping jacks. (Clearly, Lucy had never seen jumping jacks before.)

And a snake crawl. (Yes, this was supposed to be on the tummy.)

And a "how long can you hang?" challenge.

Wow! The action at the Lava has really picked up!

Friday is "Crazy Hair Day", so I'm testing my prototype before committing.

And we're doing a quick proof of concept for Lucy's hair, too.

We also bought face paint... perhaps that was a mistake.

Look at this monkey!

Arlo saw the little clothing for my crazy hair, and wanted to make some of his own.

This is as crazy as Arlo's hair will get tomorrow.

See you then!

Bangkok Week 871

March 6, 2025

What a busy week! We concluded school portrait week with some family photos; finally celebrated Nancy’s birthday; did lots of swimming. Arlo started his piano lessons; we visited the Peacock Cafe for the first time in a long time; and Arlo went on his long-awaited field trip. But perhaps most importantly… Lucy learned to ride a pedal bike! Go, Lucy! 🚲 🚀

Lucy and friend Mali (from Arlo's class), with their matching Unicats!

Trying to get one decent photo with my children. Hah!

Wardrobe change into something more comfortable, immediately after the photo shoot.

Really into socks (and running shoes) today.

It's Day 3 of the canal excavation project. And this is the finished product, complete with bridges.

Friday afternoon selfie, plus photobomb!

At long last, it's Nancy's 2nd birthday! And Lucy (and Arlo) both had a blast.

The beautiful face painting is by neighbor (and St. Andrews student) Anais.

Arlo saw another kid eating a hotdog in a bun, and asked for just the bun with ketchup.

Cake time!

(Still working on that bun.)

Happy (belated) 2nd birthday, Nancy!

Eating with a fervor reserved uniquely for cakes!

Trying on her new bathing suit... but caught red-handed with Mum's phone!

The evidence.

On our way to swimming, fully dressed!

Entertaining herself with the coveted hoop, before class.

Meanwhile, Dad & Arlo upgraded several plants.

Getting lots done while Lucy is at swimming!

A Barbie-pink electric beetle parked at swimming! Woah, whose car is this?

A really nice drawing by Arlo, of an asphalt milling machine.

Arlo's turn to swim!

Practicing his spelling.

Just hanging out.

Heading to the pool for a late-afternoon dip.

Take what you can carry!

Happy swimmers!

And Saturday movie night is still going strong.

Hooray for Sunday donuts!

(Eating just the green dip...)

This is going to end well!

Lucy and Dad are off to a (make-up) swimming lesson...

... while Mum & Arlo head to piano.

Arlo is very, very interested in the grand piano in the lobby.

And a special Sunday afternoon visit to the Peacock Cafe.

The peacocks seem to be stuck in a caged-in area, since they kept running away.

There are several new skywalks that have been built since we were last here.

They had a fun, 8-layer stamp collection activity, throughout their property.

There's a new gallery and shop space, too.

Arlo's completed stamp!

They even had free drawing for kids.

That tired out someone!

Going for a late-afternoon scoot...

... which turned into a cycle...

... and culminated in Lucy learning to ride her pedal bike!!!

Way to go, Lucy!!

Huge accomplishment for a 2-year-old!

So very proud of herself.

Monday morning, let's get this week on.

But where's Arlo?

Poor boy is sick at home with a fever.

When feeling better, he helped Dad clean out the fish bowl.

So many fish! (And that's not all.)

The big day is here! Time for the K2/Y1 field trip!

All aboard!

There was tie-dye.

Natural dyes, of course.

And clay sculpting.

And hand-washing!

And the crowning glory...

... very, very muddy rice planting!

Well kudos to everyone for going in!

Enjoying the nature.

(Rather long) power nap on the way home.

Arlo's elephant.

Meanwhile, on the nursery side, they had lots of fun with shaving cream!

Somehow, Arlo and classmates still had energy for football!

And some flying time.

Emptying our recycling stash.

And on the look-out for bad guys.

Morning book club is back.

Lucy is really into socks, these days. Which takes some time.

Arlo made a transformer out of Legos. All by himself!

The biker gang is augmented by one, today.

Lucy, that helmet looks too big for you.

Goofy bedtime with Dad!

Enjoying the empty garden in the morning.

Hah! Of course this happened. And we'd been keeping our eye on the odometer for hundreds of kilometers leading up to this!

Flopping out of Thursday. See you next week!

Bangkok Week 870

February 27, 2025

The avocado 🥑 is thriving; the papayas 🥭 are sprouting up in force. The weekend was full of playdates, activities, and games. And we even snuck in a date night. What more could we ask for?

Friday morning tug-of-war chaos.

But the air was orange, so we couldn't stay outside for long.

Hello, weekend!

Look at the papaya trees!

And Arlo is really excited to see his avocado's progress!

Almost as tall as he is!

Dinner time nail polish for Lucy.

And we received this by email: a super cute pineapple that Arlo made Teacher Selly as a gift.

Tossing himself into the weekend.

It's a very colorful Saturday.

Uncle Simon came over for a visit, and Arlo immediately roped him into card & board games.

And then swimming for Arlo.

Teacher Big jumped out of the pool to grab his phone and record a video of Arlo (to show him how his form is not right).

Dad playing Ticket to Ride for the first time.

And it's a once-in-a-blue-moon opportunity for Mum & Dad: Saturday date night!

We found a very nice vegan restaurant in Thong Lor, with very good outdoor seating.

Sunday morning, at Yamaha for a taster music class with Arlo.

Meanwhile, Lucy & Dad play all the games at home.

Did I mention, *all the games*?

Then we enjoyed lunch and a playdate with Arlo & Lucy's friends.

Quick dip: their pool is cooler than ours!

Saturday movie night on Sunday night!

Watching Dad head out for work for the day, as a VIP. Door-to-door service!

Bring on the week!

Sibling teamwork.

That evening, Arlo won Code Breaker for the first time.

It's school photo day for Lucy! We couldn't manage a dress, but went for the hair instead.

Hey, somehow the clothes made it through the whole day.

Maybe I spoke too soon!

Arlo still enjoys Tuesday Football.

Dad's on point for dinner & bedtime tonight.

Lots of wacky zaniness to help lighten the mood.

Rub-a-dub-dub.

For the rest of the week, the photographers are on Arlo's side of campus. And they're great with kids. Here, leading morning exercises!

Got the folding bike I've been eyeing for ages. And for 1500 off, no less!

Inspired by the photographers at school, who use balloons on sticks to entertain.

Arlo and Nimo apparently spent a good part of the day working on this elaborate canal network.

(Stay tuned for further developments.)

What's this!?

A giant cocoon?

Someone has been very sleepy. No rousing her for school in the morning!

Climbing into Thursday.

Lucy kindly helped push Arlo's classmate, Eve, on the swing.

Twins!

Further expansion of Arlo & Nimo's canal network this morning.

And in slightly sadder news, walked past the old nursery campus for the first time.

It's gone. Everything is gone. Gonzo. No sign that the nursery was ever there!

But anyway, back at the new nursery, they have shopping carts (and grass that is extremely warm on the feet).

Now a part of her daily routine: checking for Arlo before getting into the car. (He's often there; if not, she shouts at all his classmates, by name.)

Checking out an espresso machine that we're helping K. Noi sell.

Bangkok Week 869

February 20, 2025

It’s been a long mid-term break, but we’re finally back to school this week! But first, some fun weekend outings by tuk-tuk and train; a play date; and two tree photos!

It's wacky Friday!

Like daughter, like father.

Showing off her yoga moves.

Someone turns 5 years old and 5 months today!

And someone else wants to have a tree photo taken, too.

Lucy asked Arlo to reach the "number 5" (for 5 feet).

Sneaking in another make-up lesson before the end of the school break.

Someone is very fatigued after her lesson, it seems!

Lucy thoughtfully brought a popsicle back from swimming for Arlo.

(Or was it just a ploy to get one for herself?)

Lucy, what happened to your shirt!?

Photo by Lucy!

Pretending to sleep together?!

Saturday morning pancakes!

Arlo took the lead on mixing the batter.

Chocolate chips and maple syrup - there's no better way to enjoy pancakes?

Yum yum!

And then, it's time for a bang trim for Lucy.

Finishing the hedgehog video that Lucy got to watch during her trim.

Enjoying popsicles and cars.

Helping dad back the red car into a parking spot.

What's this? A new toy for Arlo and Lucy!?

A brand new set of legos!

Lucy's latest person drawing.

Look at the fighter jet that Arlo built.

And the many-eyed snail truck.

Swimming time for Arlo.

How are the new goggles, Arlo?

What's this? Late afternoon excursion!

Destination: Emporium, where a giant Chinese NY Dragon is still on display!

And lots of pandas, lining the walkway between the BTS and EmSphere.

Here's our real destination!

(Lucy spotted the child's place setting at the table, and insisted on sitting there.)

Trying out potential mattresses for the Ekkamai house.

No trip to IKEA is complete without an 8-baht robot ice cream.

Enjoying it in their "house".

And may as well get dinner while we're here! Fried "chicken" and "meat balls". Yum yum!

Tired... but with new friends in hand.

Heading home.

Opportunistic chance for Arlo to get a Student Card.

It's a very late Saturday night... but it's still movie night!

Arlo made this highlighter out of his new lego kit.

And then Lucy had a playdate with her classmate, Matteo.

Something cracked him up!

Off on another short tuk-tuk adventure...

... to the Nathan Rhodes furniture store.

Arlo and Lucy liked this mini Eames set.

Arlo had been hankering for a smoothie all day...

... so we stopped at a smoothie bar in a climbing gym before heading home.

A quick dip after dinner.

The water is a good temperature again!

A circus act, by Arlo's cars.

Back at school, at long last!

And wasting no time getting back to the important things.

Then picking up our order from the chair store...

... and taking it to the Ekkamai house.

2 years have passed; got my new phone!

The house is ever-expanding. Now it has a collapsable awning.

Arlo's working on a boat...

... and Lucy on her own, too.

Making a map with tape and a tea towel.

Teamwork!

Here's the (floor model) sofa we bought for the Ekkamai house.

Assembled by the pros in no time.

The first photo with my new phone. Test test!

The football boys.

Bedtime shenanigans.

Can you guess what day it is?

Fire truck day!

But first, these bikes need adjusting...

Tattoos by Lucy.

The fire truck that came this year is a mini one! Good for the narrow Bangkok sois, I guess.

Arlo got to be the demonstration dummy for the firemen!

Thrilled to be driving the (mini) fire truck.

And trying the zip line this year for the first time!

Arlo's new bee, from IKEA. He loves it very much.

Helping Ba Wan clean the walls.

Arlo figured out how to clean his dirty feet without using the shower.

Lucy saw, in a library book about potty training, that you can read while on the toilet.

Banana bonanza!

The pink biker girls.

And Thursday morning reading club!

Now, Lucy, it really is your turn for a tree photo.

Arlo's finally showing how to play the game he made in his board games ECA a month ago.

Bangkok Week 868

February 13, 2025

It’s a long-awaited visit to Trat, to kick off the mid-term school holiday! It’s a fun-filled couple of days there, and then lots of swimming and playing at home while Mum & Dad still work.

It's the last day of school before the mid-term break... and we're fortunate to have good air!

Everyone's making the most of it.

Lucy and Taiga, the cutest biker gang.

Lucy! What happened to your face?

Looks like this one won't be coming off easily!

Equipped to make a balloon animal!

Building a tall tower, and "standing on a stool like James in "The Snowman"."

What concentration.

Little Miss Diaper Head.

Bonk! A victim of her own bright idea.

Beautiful skies, and we're off to Trat.

Early comfort break... and a broken bench!

This group of big bikes was taking a rest as well.

We found a cute little cafe (with giant croissants!)...

With cute decor, too.

Delicious mint chocolate drink...

... and a very pink drink for Lucy.

We're here! And everyone is happy!

Reconnecting with fun toys...

... and other things.

We picked up Aa Nan along the way, so she's here now too.

Inflating the bike tires with Aa Top.

And taking the Tuk Tuk for a drive. Hmm, these two look like underage drivers.

No really, time for a drive!

Who knew this Tuk Tuk is really a 4-seater!

Arlo's practicing to be a motorcycle taxi.

Hang on, Lucy!

Selling the balls for 20 baht (despite the "%").

Lucy hanging with Bella.

Learning from her brother, these stones are great to dig around in.

Tong, just chilling big-time.

Picking flowers...

... and checking out what fruits are growing.

The lotuses are past their peaks.

Cute little Arlo-sized papaya tree.

Buddies Arlo and Tong.

Visiting the Saturday evening walking street.

Somehow we parked right at the ice cream truck.

Yummy ice cream!

Stopping to check out lottery numbers.

Someone was hungry, and wanted to try every snack we passed.

Group shot!

Tired and needing to rest her legs.

Everyone's favorite time of the day: hair brushing time.

Night night!

Mobile breakfast with Puu the next morning.

Sunbathing Bella.

Enjoying plucking the seeds out of a lotus flower.

Aa Nan kindly helped pick a few more flowers out of the pond.

So many seeds!

Lucy practicing her wildlife photography.

And time for a drawing class.

Great person, Lucy!!!

Hard at work on a multi-page landscape (or should I say, carscape).

Showing Puu the picture she drew of him.

Lunch time!

And then a trip to the pier, where we saw some fishing boats!

Look at all the lightbulbs!

Watching the fishermen clean their boats.

Great sea breeze, with Koh Chang in the background.

Group shot.

And then swinging by Yuttanavi Memorial Monument, which commemorates a naval battle between France & Siam.

Very interested in the missles.

Lighting fire crackers to make merit.

And no outing would be complete without ice cream!

And feeding the fish.

Saying hi to the old tortoises, too.

Arlo took an interest in these "Ngob" hats.

He actually wanted to buy one. Maybe next time!

Bath time for Bella!

And the best hair combing.

Monday morning already? Aww, time to take good-bye photos.

See you next time!

Hugs for Bella, too, of course.

Stopping at our favorite rest stop.

Arlo was very excited to step inside a phone booth! How novel!

Hippo hippo hippo hippo hippo!

And slideeee!

Back at home and wasting no time. Let the school holidays begin!

Taking stock of all the small plastic bead thingies he's made at school.

Arlo's self-proclaimed "busy fingers" exercise: unscrewing the remote control.

Board games!

Delicious strawberries from Dad.

Wednesday is a public holiday!

So Aya and her family came over for lunch...

... and the kids all made sticky rice "dumplings".

Lucy was a ball-rolling pro!

A snowman!

Showing off what she rolled (quickly).

And boiling until they float.

Delicious!

No play date these days is complete without a board game or two.

And a make-up swimming lesson for Lucy.

They each got a new pair of goggles!

How very cool!

Expending energy through a late-afternoon run.

So pooped from the day (and no nap) that she fell asleep like this.

The mid-term break is still on, but Mum & Dad are back to work today.

Playing with magnets.

And sticker art.

Arlo was able to sneak in a make-up lesson.

Look at the beautiful sky!

See you next time!

Bangkok Week 867

February 6, 2025

It’s a very fun, very busy weekend packed with visits and playdates! But then another week of poor air quality. On the plus side, the papayas are doing really well all of a sudden!

Back to Bangkok, but welcomed by more poor air! Another indoor day at school!

Lucy is enjoying Arlo's new spelling boardgame.

Check out the papayas! They've really taken off!

Air is good enough for a quick playground in the afternoon.

Uh oh! Where is Lucy?

There she is!

A very elaborate streetscape that Arlo drew in "Drawing Club" at school.

Reading to herself to start the weekend.

According to the family timekeeper, January is officially over!

Enjoying a big glass of milk for brekkie.

Waiting for our tuk tuk...

... to go to swimming!

Playing Rhino Hero with Uncles Andrew & Ray.

Who enjoyed it more? Hard to tell!

13 stories before it collapsed!

Meanwhile, at Arlo's swimming, it's all about breaststroke these days.

Learning proper technique.

Lucy is slow to get out of bed after her nap.

Even though she knows that her buddy Taiga is coming over.

Very cute, fun playdate with Taiga & fam.

And then Saturday movie night to wind down.

Then it's straight into another busy day, with a playdate with Fuku and Yoshi and family.

First a quick snack time.

And then 3 hours of board games and puzzles!

I think Arlo & Fuku played at least 8 different games.

Yoshi and Lucy going fishing.

Rhino Hero...

... and snakes & ladders...

... and the new shopping game...

... and uno...

... and even Monza!

Here's the Junior board game club.

Relaxing and quiet time with his work book.

Filling up the gas!

Lucy was so pooped, she napped for over 3 hours!

The air cleared up enough to do some very late-afternoon biking & scooting.

But alas, by Monday, it was another indoor day again.

Changing it up, and playing on Lucy's side first.

Tandem sliding.

And emptying our recycling at the school collection bins.

Free to run outside at last (even though the air is still not great).

Her favorite home away from home.

Trying to start a bonfire, Lucy?

It's all the little twigs she collected from the playground.

Roasting marshmallows.

We figured out where the "reflex spot" on Arlo's knee is.

Highly entertaining!

Lucky us! A good air morning!

Can't decide between painting and biking? Well then just do both!

Lilies having too much fun winding up Aynur in the swing.

I'm impressed by her stomach.

Lucy saying hi to Arlo and friends before we head home.

Football Tuesday!

And the newest addition to Arlo's bedroom.

He likes it!

Cooling down with afternoon water play.

Another indoor morning.

Oh! Flat Stanley hasn't made an appearance in a while!

Watching the tennis lesson.

Some of these papayas will be ready for their own pots soon.

It's another good air morning, and Arlo and Fuku are hhard at work.

Making Som Tum...

... and sifting sand.

Meanwhile, Lucy is doing the K1 art project.

A one-person Shinkansen.

Reading with Matteo's mum.

Hello, Arlo & Friends. See you after nap!

Playing with the doll house before bed.

The only reason why Lucy washes her hair!

See you next time!

Bangkok Week 866

January 30, 2025

We bid farewell to Granny and Grandpa after a lovely 6-week visit. And we get ready to welcome the Year of the Snake by … visiting some snakes! Mum’s away for the week, too, but as a consolation, the air is finally good!

Friday morning mark-making over breakfast. Great way to start the day!

Portrait of Granny, by Lucy.

Look who blends right in with Lilies K2.

Turtle-spotting at Nursery pick-up.

An early Happy Birthday to Dad!

What a delicious home-made cake by Granny!

What gift could be better than these two monkeys and dark chocolate?

Just lounging around together.

Getting in some last board games with Grandpa.

Poor Nancy was unable to have her birthday party because of the air, but Lucy got some balloons anyway.

Friday night, everyone just doing their thing.

Lucy the artist.

Arlo is determined to work on his homework assignment, if it kills him!

Lucy and her favorite party trick.

Oh no. Is it finally time to take farewell photos?

Lucy doesn't want to play along. Say it ain't so!

This was the best we could do!

A Saturday field trip to the airport, to see them off personally.

Photo op with the Yag while Granny & Grandpa check in.

Bye bye! Thanks for the long visit! Come again!

Heading back to the car, empty-handed this time.

Wasting no time, and finding a new dress-up dress.

Lucy skipped swimming because of a cold, but Arlo was well enough for his lesson.

And they're working on breast stroke technique.

Looking at Arlo's old learning journeys together.

Lucy's ready to follow right behind Granny & Grandpa.

Saturday movie night!

After at least 15 years, we return to the Snake Farm, run by the Red Cross.

After a few minutes warming up...

... the kids loved it.

To quote Lucy, "aww! A cute little one!"

Snack break.

Hi, snake!

Check out the skeleton!

Feeling snake skin.

And now it's the moment everyone's been waiting for...

... the show!

It was a very informative bilingual presentation, showcasing 7 or 8 different snakes.

But I'm glad we had top-row, back-row seats!

Family photo op afterward. (😬)

Saying bye to their favorite fellow.

A quick visit to the playground in the afternoon.

And again at sunset (pretending to watch a movie).

Here, Arlo is reading his school reader to Lucy before bed.

Taking stock of all his large-scale cars. Too many, if you ask me.

Making the most of some good air mornings.

And getting ready for CNY.

(Being a snake.)

Another beautiful morning.

P'Noi is at school, since Mum is away.

Things are in full swing for tomorrow's CNY celebration!

Three monkeys.

Always a fun time at football.

Celebrating Dad's birthday on the actual day! Happy birthday, Dad!

Never do they smile wider than when taking a selfie by themselves.

It's go time! Happy Lunar New Year!

Everyone's in their best red.

Looking cute, but oh-so-serious.

Hard to pick out who's who.

Making dumplings.

And showing off the dragon paintings that his class did.

Dumplings for Lucy, too.

Ride those horses!

Happy Lunar New Year!

The celebrations are in full swing on Lucy's side, too.

New hair at the end of the day.

Principal Mimi tested the height of the door lock with Arlo.

No Grandpa here to play boardgames anymore, so Arlo's trained a replacement.

My, that's an elaborate railroad network!

These two behaving so well for Dad at bedtime.

Mum's finally on the way home! (Via the good old Picadilly Line again!)

Taking another batch of recycling to school.

Only a brief outdoor play today, because the air is not actually that good.

Wheelie.

Here comes Mum, getting closer to home!

And speaking of home, there they are! We're following that same (winter) flight path we often observe from the balcony.

Here comes Mum!

Not two feet in the door, and they've got my suitcase open to look for souvenirs.

This monkey found a dark chocolate in my bag, and did an immediate number on it.

So good to be home! See you next time!

Bangkok Week 865

January 23, 2025

It’s Granny & Grandpa’s last full week in Bangkok… and unfortunately, the air is still not cooperating. We did have a lovely lunch at INN TRAIN, and one nice day of air. It’s shaping up to be a classic Bangkok January!

We start this week with a nice chewy slice of sourdough!

And we're inaugurating the school's recycling bins with our UHT collection from the past week.

Arlo's very excited to be bringing his contributions.

In we go, into the UHT recycling bin!

It's another lovely air morning, and the garden is abuzz with children. Like these monkeys, riding down the slide on a sled.

Lucy is doing chalk...

... and then getting a sleigh ride herself from Arlo & Mali.

And here we have the world's slowest, shortest Shinkansen.

On Lucy's side, the garden is abuzz and everyone is dancing. (Here, the sleepy dance.)

These two excited readers are sitting next to each other, reading the special books they get to bring home for the weekend.

Selfie by Arlo.

Uh oh! Lucy in a box!

Special Friday-night treat: Japanese gelato. But probably over-hyped.

Arlo's latest jigsaw masterpiece.

And Lucy's.

Arlo got a giant drawing book from a generous classmate...

... and wasted no time getting into it.

Here's his passenger plane, complete with stairs for boardin.

Granny bought Lucy a special treat after her swim.

Coming home to draw with chalk.

Posing with her sun.

Playing Uno with Grandpa: one of the many, many games they've played this visit.

Lunch time chat.

We got dry ice for the first time in a long time... and it's as thrilling as ever to Arlo.

Running around pretending to be a steam engine.

In the sun, the smoke patterns are very visible!

Getting a good whiff of the smoke.

Heading to Arlo's swimming lesson for the last time this visit :(

Look at this monkey, biking around the balcony with her koala...

... and her giant cat.

Ta-daa!

Lucy, the well-endowed hula dancer!

And here they are, driving their camper van.

The air still isn't stellar, but after days and days indoors, we're having lunch at INN TRAIN.

We've not been here since Lucy was born.

It's been restored nicely.

Last time we were here, Arlo wouldn't even go on the trampoline.

The tree house has been improved...

... and they both enjoyed walking along the elevated walkway.

Wave to Dad & Granny!

Hello down there!

(I hope this wood is strong!)

Trying the giant trampoline for the first time.

Whee! A fast slide!

Even the cargo pulley line was restored and working today.

Lucy's trying her hand at it, too.

Lunch is here!

Lucy approves of the smoothie.

And Arlo is enthusiastic about the fries.

Trampolining together.

And saying hi to the many, many, many bunnies.

Figuring out how to drive this scooter thing on the sidewalk surface...

... and then chauferring his sister around.

Look at all those bunnies!

Bye bye, INN Train. You've been fun!

Back home, continuing his large-scale drawings...

Pizza night!

And Arlo's getting the hang of blowing up a balloon!

(And of letting the air out slowly so that it wails in pain.)

Look at these twins.

Monday morning energy at school!

And goofing around at pick-up.

Right on queue, Lucy turns two years and 10 months old. Not many months of 2 left!

Arlo's figured out how to use the new cake pan that Granny bought...

And the Academy Award for best acting in a drama goes to...

Lucy, helpfully serving rice to the adults at dinner.

Is that where the diaper goes, Lucy?

Trying on her Lunar New Year dress from Sally...

... it finally fits!

Lounging around together on the stairs before school.

It was another indoor morning, but thankfully, cleared up by football.

Breaking news: we spotted the third turtle!! He's easily missed due to his dark, muddy shell.

Yet another bad air morning...

Lucy found these ginormous overnight diapers that Arlo wore while in Toronto almost 2 years ago... and loves them. She calls them, "the big diapers".

Bedtime with Dad!

Delicious green cream bun - yum yum!

Lucy tries it, too.

New plan: Arlo plays on Lucy's side when the air is bad. (Yoshi is wondering why...)

Look at this cutie and all her hairstyles.

Grandpa with one Monkey...

... and Granny with the other.

Ending this week with some games and fun. See you next time!

Bangkok Week 864

January 16, 2025

It was a busy week, but unfortunately, the air quality has NOT been great… despite the lovely, cool temperatures. At least we had a nice weekend!

We start this week with hippos in pajamas.

And Lucy is getting first-class breakfast service this morning.

Holding her place in the swing queue while bouncing on the peanut ball.

Lucy blends right in with Arlo's classmates.

Rehearsal of the drama club.

Finally got a replacement pig & wolf game.

Coming home by tuk-tuk after coding & robotics.

Spirograph! The one we've been talking about.

Oh, it's harder than I remember.

Future crossword puzzler in the making.

It's a lovely, chilly Saturday morning. What a great time to read outside.

Wearing matching "sweaters" and reading with Grandpa.

Smiley eggs for breakfast.

Happy Saturday!

Photography by Lucy.

Someone's attempting to carry too many things to the basketball court.

A great morning to be up here.

Waiting patiently for the tuk-tuk (and Lucy left space for Mum to sit, too).

All ready!

After-swim snacks are serious business.

Playing the new game with Grandpa.

And looking things up in Picturepedia.

Here's the fashionista.

More of Lucy's photography.

Mr. Chatty and Teacher Big.

Floating around in a boat he made for himself.

It's Children's Day, so Teacher Big has a small snack for each of his students.

Trying the infinitiles.

Another absolutely lovely "winter" morning!

The balcony tiles are too cold to stand on!

Making sure the fish are okay in this chilly weather.

No better way to spend a cool morning (with clean air, I might add!) than at the park!

"Sweater" weather for Lucy.

It's even cool enough to play on the playground that's always in the sun!

Practicing her ball skillz with Granny.

It's a race!

And our traditional lunch at Mother May I.

Where the Christmas season is still alive!

Dad built Arlo and Lucy an impressive house!

Comfortably sleeps two.

Here's the salesman, showing off all the features.

Arlo decorated the exterior really nicely.

Redoing his coding assignment.

Focusing hard on their mark-making before bed.

We're now 3-for-3 for beautiful winter days... except that the air is poor again today!

Lucy just wants to snuggle in bed with bear.

Lovely temperatures, but another indoor morning at school because of the air.

Everyone's eager to run around outside after being cooped up inside all day.

Newest feature of the house: a car ramp!

Posing with her breakfast banana.

Breakfast video? Who did a poop to deserve this?

Another indoor morning...

... and afternoon collapse.

Thankfully, the air is good enough by 2:30 to play football outside.

These days, Arlo rushes home from school to play cards with Grandpa.

And he completed all 3 of these puzzles, too.

A tall 5 year and 4 month old boy. Almost 120!

Practicing his reading with Granny...

... and bedtime antics with Dad.

Lucy insisted on having breakfast with Bear.

Yet another indoor morning.

Thursday is here, but Lucy's having none of it.

Finally! An outdoor morning!

Someone else is a budding puzzle master as well.

Learning from the greatest.

Doing a detailed study of the Honda N-Box.

Similar?

And a Zepplin, from memory.

Good bye, and see you next week!

Bangkok Week 863

January 9, 2025

We enjoy one last holiday weekend, and then return to reality! Back to work! Back to school! (It’s just a shame that the air quality isn’t a little better…)

Welcome back! It's the last Friday of the holiday!

Arlo's excited by this giant pomelo from K. Noi. It's bigger than his head for sure!

Wasting no time opening it.

Pomelo hat!

Excited by his one little papaya sprout. Good luck, little buddy!

Moo Deng menu spotted -- is this not a little creepy?

Meanwhile, this little lady has a bout of enthusiasm for hair clips.

Looking good, Lucy! You should do this more often.

Sneaking in a quick trip to IKEA to try out their couches.

I'll just have a nap here on this shelf, and see you in a few hours.

Back at home, Grandpa is the (board) game king.

Lucy's lining up all her people...

... while Arlo tucks in.

Lucy wants to spend Saturday morning with friends.

(With a little help to egg her on.)

Bye bye, red couch! Off to a new home!

A quick trip to swimming...

... followed by hair cuts for the boys.

Looking spiffy!

Not missing a beat, checking out his big wheels while there at the rink.

Meanwhile, back at home...

Arlo's turn to go to swimming; and this week, he had the brilliant idea to change at home!

And guess who asked to go for a late afternoon swim in the chilly pool?

Answer in exhibit above.

New 'doo allows him to do fun new things with his hair.

Everyone's ready for movie night!

Enraptured. Enthralled. Zombies.

Special Sunday morning activity: checking out the new playground at Benjakitti Forest Park.

This slide was here last time, but the rest is new.

Some fun and less-conventional play equipment.

Navigating the logs.

Lucy impressed us: she was tall enough for the ropes.

Digging for fossils.

Giant chimes.

And a little climbing gym, too.

Enjoying the leg press equipment together...

... and getting their "steps" in.

Couldn't resist trying some of the giant climbing ropes.

Arlo made his way all the way up this one...

... as did Lucy.

Uh oh! Fly stuck in the spider's web!

Water and snack break to reenergize.

Cheese!

And special Sunday stop, at everyone's favorite ice cream shop!

Arlo and Lucy got the kids' sundaes this time.

Someone's happy with his bubble gum.

Chowing down on the cone.

Enjoying the nice, spacious playroom sans couch.

Coloring in his dinosaur magnets.

Uh oh, Lucy! Arm!

Great bulldozer by Arlo.

And a special delivery from Sally & Douglass!

What a brilliant pirate ship.

Aww, Dad's off to Hong Kong. (Honk honk, as Lucy would say.)

But here's the delivery that Mum's been waiting for!

These two played cards and Lucy napped...

... while Mum & Granny tackled the special order.

The finished product, in not much more than an hour!

The new living room! What do you think?

I think Arlo likes it.

And Lucy awoke from her nap to a big surprise.

Playing really nicely together with their new pirate ship, before bedtime.

Uh oh! Lucy amused herself by getting dressed before getting undressed.

Looking for Honk Honk (I mean, Hong Kong) on the globe.

And this group is off to Harborland!

New year, new hair cut for the last of us.

And it was a very unceremonious return to school, with poor air and no garden time in the morning.

So here we are after school, enjoying being back.

It was as if Arlo had never been away.

By Wednesday morning, Dad was back, and he brought some cool souvenirs for Arlo & Lucy!

Happy to be back at school, an with Dad too.

Look! Three turtles now!

Little Miss Relaxed.

Enjoying the games, before Arlo comes home.

Shh, don't tell Arlo about Monza.

Having an utter blast raising and dropping the laundry hanger.

Uh oh, Granny. Wasn't your bed recently made?

Lucy likes bath time with dad, because dad does this!

Excited for school, and to show off her hippo shirt.

Morning exercises.

Mum, too!

Finally biting the bullet and hanging the weaving from Granny Aki.

Collecting leaves...

... and collecting Granny & Grandpa after their massage.

Arlo's new reading spot.

And we close this week in memory of these four friends...

... whose friends stood by their side until the bitter end.