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Printed from https://www.writing.com/main/books/item_id/1311011-Porthole/sort_by/entry_order DESC, entry_creation_time DESC/page/6
Rated: 13+ · Book · Personal · #1311011
A terminal for all blogs coming in or going out. A view into my life.
Started July 1st 2019 for contests, etc. as other blogs are filling up and have other purposes.

Ferry boat between Solvorn and Ornes across the Lustrafjord i Sogn og Fjordane.




I'm starting a new blog because
BOOK
L'aura del Campo  (13+)
Online journal capturing the moment and the memory of moments. A meadow meditation.
#982524 by Kåre Enga in Montana
had over 1,200 entries and that was getting close to full. I don't want to trim it by deletion. I did that once, much to my dismay. Will be used more for poetry.

BOOK
Hoarfrosts from Hell  (GC)
Anything I'm not happy about or that I don't want in my main blog!
#997339 by Kåre Enga in Montana
is still hidden from the public and will remain so. It's more personal and full of angst. Was used for 30DBC for May 2020 and now used for Blogville.

BOOK
Enga mellom fjella  (13+)
Enga mellom fjella: where from across the meadow, poems sing from mountains and molehills.
#1317094 by Kåre Enga in Montana
was full... until the number of entries was increased. A mixed blog, mostly stories.

I'll be linking to
BOOK
On The Write Path  (13+)
ON THE WRITE PATH: travel journal for Around-the-World in 2015, 16, 18.
#2032403 by Kåre Enga in Montana
as I need to post there about my travels.

 
BOOK
O Pinions!  (XGC)
May my opinions gather wind under their wings and fly, perchance to soar.
#1501776 by Kåre Enga in Montana
is for my opinions. *Laugh*

BOOK
Nurture your Nature  (13+)
Look around. Let Nature nurture your Soul. I record images I sense and share them here.
#1439094 by Kåre Enga in Montana
was set up for nature observations and musings.

 
BOOK
Watt's Gnus  (18+)
On topics and today's gnus. Definitely opinionated. Set to 18+ for a reason.
#1439092 by Kåre Enga in Montana
come out of a need to share interesting stuff I come across. When I was young I did a small newsletter named as such. (or was it column in the newsletter? Been 30 years... I think.)

 
FOLDER
Flash Fiction  (GC)
Short 300 word, more or less, "stories" .
#2190336 by Kåre Enga in Montana
is where I put my flash fictions. Maybe someday I'll figure it out and have enough good ones to publish. Ratings vary and some are hidden from view.

I've started an appendix (I no longer have one personally) to keep track of my Space Cadet journals for Space Blog. It's a work constantly under construction. Mind the mess.
STATIC
Space Cadet - the never ending journal  (18+)
Journeys of an Alien Space crew.
#2226611 by Kåre Enga in Montana


I needed to start a folder for contests as there are so many deadlines and details to remember.
 
FOLDER
Conquest ... to keep track of contests  (18+)
A place to keep track of in progress works and up-coming deadlines as well as any awards.
#2233119 by Kåre Enga in Montana
(also very messy!) *Shock2*

 
FORUM
Blogville   (XGC)
Where bloggers meet and greet to read and share. No required prompt. Alias: blogville.
#2253938 by Kåre Enga in Montana
is for posting personal blog entries in hope that folks will comment and post their blog entries there as well. I will be commenting on all blog entries posted. It's my effort to rebuild a blogging community.

BOOK
Bibimbap 비빔밥   (13+)
Left-overs piled on hot rice and mixed.
#2296648 by Kåre Enga in Montana
an E blog focusing on food and culture. Easily digestible for the Queasy and Questioning.

Previous ... 2 3 4 5 -6- 7 8 9 10 11 ... Next
June 11, 2023 at 9:04pm
June 11, 2023 at 9:04pm
#1050955
(exercise) = Exor. (observations) = obsv. (s***,shave,shower) = ss&s. (read something) = read. (comment blogs) = bogs. (BoyLove series on-line) = ytBL. (Thai TV BL series on GMMTV25) = tv25. (write poetry or prose) = PorP. (take a daily walk) = walk. (buy something) = shop. (take a photo) = foto. (video) = วิดีโอ. (speak Thai/Lao) = pôod. (learn Thai) Thai. (go-in-the-water) = pool. (clothes) = wash. (cook something) = cook. (tidy up) = mess. (travel) = trip.

*Flowerr* 18/06/66

It's a rainy morning on a Red Day. 79 degrees at 08:26. Will I be smart enough to go out in it? Another note: my feet are bothering me a tad. I haven't been in the pool in over a week... does that help? Possibly. Just like lotion helps my face and walking helps me psychologically and exercising helps me put my pants on (my right thigh seems to be stronger and I stand better). Small things. Motion is life. Even the aggravation of living with someone teaches me lessons.

To Mike: "I'm definitely left-handed which can be an advantage but apparently I also have two left feet. I can move for a moment and then I lose it. Maybe Musa Motha has an advantage by not having a left foot at all. He's definitely an alouette.

One of the most amazing dance performances ever. You really need to watch this.

"

"To Stik: Warning: opinions and advice...

I try to take photos of Pannya, but he's not artistic in a creative way. He always wants to look like a model. Bleh...

Thailand has standards of beauty: light skin, tall (for men), with a perfect complexion. Pan is 26... and that's old.

And he won't smile unless he puts on a fake smile. Because? He just can't be himself. He thinks he's ugly. Frustrating. Plus... black/white photos are for dead folks not the living. Forget art photos!

Thailand is demographically young and the BL film industry (geared for selling products to teenagers) has been criticized about "the look" (like 1950s Hollywood). Now it's trying to portray roles outside of the boring (oh... very very boring... think 1980s white-folk-sitcoms). But... I watched a "show" last night of some of the best in the industry and cringed. It's sing/dance/pose...

Fortunately in Thai BL series they have great writers, camera crews, cinematography, music, directors, coaches, and actors who rise to the occasion (most of the time... it's still too commercial).

So, subject. IMO, find men who are willing to embrace a range of emotions, willing to take directions, and will let YOU do the picture-taking! I would suggest video and use a frame... or a camera with a fast shutter speed as movement is an issue for me (maybe you don't have that problem?).

Good luck finding someone who isn't vain. Maybe just take thousands of photos of everyday people?

Me just blithering, but I am truly frustrated."


*Checkr* bogs. Mike/Stik/Sorji
*Checkr* exor. 200/50(mild back pain)/100/250 = 600. 77 degrees 10:30 - 11:00.
*Checkr* obsv. damp 'cool' cloudy, pesky flies, oblivious ants, no uncles see, white flowers strewn, hoots near and far, something hovering like a hummer (no hummingbirds in Thailand) gone in a flash, swallows swooping.

*Clock2* เที่ยง 77 degrees *Cloud* Grey but brightening.

*Checkr* ss&s. Late.
*Checkr* Thai. Mood particles https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLHv-h2LxdA
*Checkr* walk. Ate at Koala. Met Sam (Lars) from Goteborg at Sports Bar.
*Checkr* shop. Sea bass, vanilla ice cream.
*Checkr* foto.
*Xr* ytBL.
*Xr* tv25. Out with Pan and friend.
*Xr* read.

*Flowerv* 17/06/66

*Checkv* exor. 200/75/100/300 = 675; 79 degrees at 08:30.
*Checkv* obsv.
*Checkv* PorP.

Observed, worked-out, wrote, spoke to Rick. He confirms the wisdom of my approach. It's possible to treat this as a do-nothing vacation. That would not be wise. I originally intended to travel around Isan... so much for plans. But I have adjusted to a variety of objectives that provide an overall routine. It was disrupted by our SiSaKet/KhunHan trip, especially my workout, but I'm back to the routines.

*Checkv* bogs. Nikola/Mouse/Rhychus

To N: "A new member of your family! Enjoy. I have to remind myself to be grateful that I seldom get headaches, never get migraines. Mind you I'm a pain-in-the-other-end. Friends will confirm that."

*Checkv* ss&s.
*Checkv* foto. food, lotus

82 degrees at 10 am. Pan is still in bed. I'll try to get as much done before he stirs. It's wash day. And Saturday... but days of the week don't mean as much here. People tend to work every day. This isn't a 6/1, 5/2 or 3/1/2/1 culture.

FU and the Unicorn you rode in on... need to address hyper-vigil and paranoic GenZ (mostly women) Boomers (mostly men) and others. I was the smiling child who wanted to connect with strangers because I couldn't around family. And now I'm supposed to respect you by reading your mind and not speaking to you? FU!

About this: https://www.msn.com/en-us/video/news/pittsburgh-synagogue-shooter-is-found-guilt... It took 5 years and it's not over. What a waste! I do not believe in the death penalty but it's much cheaper and less stressful for everyone when the cops murder (shoot with intent to kill) the suspect instead of capture them. Unfortunately, the US is racist and more p.o.c. are murdered in this way over traffic stops then white folks put in jail for murder caught on video.

11:00 and Sleeping Beauty has arisen from his slumber. 86 degrees.

Merit Badge in Celebration
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Congratulations on your WDC anniversary and thank you for your friendship! *^*Bighug*^* Merit Badge in Awesome Writing Site
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  18 years! *^*Shock2*^*  Damn but you're old! *^*Laugh*^* Congratulations!

*Clock2* เที่ยง 88 degrees *Clouds*

*Checkv* read. Chapter 32... 6 more to go. "Invalid Item
*Checkv* Thai. Animals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4f4A44u7IU
*Checkv* ytBL. Our Skyy Vice Versa | EP.2

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/takeaways-from-the-scathing-report-on-minne...

It's 16:46 and I'm happy to report that today went better. It would be nice to have no-drama days when I felt loved and accepted. I should be grateful for these few moments.

Thought for the "poetry of isolation": its voice hushed by the turmoil of daily life / it sits inside me begging to be birthed / the weight of it a feather eager to fly / what belies its belief in eternity / what awaits its final demise // as it joins the other forgotten utterances / shared with the imploding void. / the scent of it floats through fluttering leaves / alights like a butterfly lost in dreams // here in the closet of forget-all-this / it whimpers to be released / allowed to become alive.

*Checkv* walk.
*Checkv* wash. I hung up the wash that Pan did earlier.
*Xv* tv25. I watched some BGT. Not amused by the gmmtv show tonight.

*Flowerb* 16/06/66

*Checkb* exor. 200/50/75/200 82 degrees at 8:30
*Checkb* ss&s. Meanwhile... Pan got a haircut.
*Checkb* bogs. Phyllis/Mike/Angr
*Checkb* Thai. Family https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YZeDDJEOns
*Clock2* เที่ยง 90 degrees *Clouds*
*Checkb* shop. seasoning, bread. Sprinkles at 14:00 and 18:00. pink rose, lotus, donuts.
*Checkb* ytBL. Our Skyy Vice Versa | EP.1 Really cute.
*Checkb* foto. caught the sunset.
*Checkb* tv25. But saw only half and I'm just not into it at the moment.
*Checkb* read. Chapter 28&29.

To Lilli: "Thank you. I almost feel like an adult now. But... what's really sad is how few have been here at WdC longer than me. When my mother (99) died I also found out that my aunt (93) had died. They were the last of their generation.

So... anniversaries are also sad. So many years writing... so many missed opportunities. At least today was a good day in-real-life.


To Tina: "Thank you... I just wish folks were more willing to engage me when I'm contrary. I stay here out of habit. WdC and I fell out-of-love long ago.

I feel okay here when I'm part of a large multi-cultural community. I'm not a groupie nor a cheery cheerleader tossing a long blonde pony-tail with a pasted-on smile (real or fake) for "our" team. I never have been. So... I'm lucky to have any friendly associates here at all, or at least folks who will tolerate me. I don't feel the love I used to feel.

But then... I don't feel embraced in Montana or Thailand either.

If I dive off our balcony it won't be because I was pushed; it will be because I want to fly."


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    Dear  [Link To User enga]  *^*Bigsmile*^* 
  On your *^*Suitheart*^* WDC Anniversary    
Here is something while you go blog-hopping!     
Thank you *^*Delight*^* for all the kind blog comments -     and for getting me in to blogging *^*Smile*^* in the first place!


*Sun* 15/06/66

Not a restful night for me. Pan was fast asleep and I felt alone. Got up reasonably early (before 8).

*Checko* exor. 200/50/50/200 82 degrees at 09:15.
*Checko* obsv. 2 hooting birds, jet, train, breeze, dying flowers (lasted about 2 weeks?)
*Checko* ytBL. Past-Senger Ep. 11 and 12. Finished!

"Yep. Here in Thailand (I'm in conservative Isan) no one seems to care about the age difference between me and my boyfriend. For Bamee this is a forgotten lapse of time, for Kiew it's a moment he has waited for all his life. But yes... bittersweet is a good choice of words. And that... could've used 2 more episodes to resolve. Or a trilogy. Part 1 ends when he returns. Part 2 is resolving issues with his mom and friend while being patient while Bamee grew up. Part 3. the reunion... having to get to know each other again... the realization... the rekindling... and whatever obstacles put in their way. At that point whether they get together or not is less important to the story (although possibly heart-breaking to the viewer if bittersweet)."

"I thought the ending was a bit abrupt. A couple more episodes would've been nice for Bamee to remember what he'd forgotten and for Kiew to rekindle what must be a very fond but hazy memory (like an old photograph).

Also I realize that BL is written for a teenage female audience (that the rest of us get to enjoy) and that most of those who comment here and elsewhere are probably GenZ. BUT... This is Thailand. Age and sexuality do not present the same barriers found in the USA, UK or EU, or even elsewhere in Asia (Taiwan, Korea, Japan are very different as is their BL). Mind you... Thailand isn't a LGBTQ+ paradise; but, here in Isan, a conservative Buddhist region, I've been shocked by the acceptance me and my boyfriend receive in spite of our obvious age difference."

*Checko* read. Up to Chapter 27 "Invalid Item

"Chapter 27. Very intrigued. Now I understand what's going on... kinda... wouldn't be shocked if you had a surprise or two left. *Wink*

That said... still a bit lost now and then. If this were a TV series like the Thai BL I watch then it would be easy. 4 segments each episode with a recap at the beginning and an enigmatic teaser at the end. We'd know what time/place we were in by other techniques... dress... haircut... lighting... Maybe not perfectly as this is tricky but there are Thai directors, screen-play writers and cinematographers, not to forget actors and actresses that could handle this! "6 main and supporting characters" is done all the time. The darkness has shown up in "Not Me" and is being explored as Thai TV expands past traditional soap-operas or single-genre main-stream offerings.

This should probably be read all-at-once. It's not long, so one day would suffice for a quick reader.

I will finish this soon as I don't want it to be drawn out longer than it was meant to be."

*Checko* walk. Got to talk with Rick on the way back.
*Checko* foto.
*Checko* Thai. Polite questions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZmXYmvxT4Q&t=13s
*Checko* pôod.
*Checko* tv25. Special Show. Making me a bit sad. Feeling so inadequate. Still not a fan of this silliness.

Ovi? Not yet... "xx I bask in x moonbeams / while eating strawberry ice cream, / sprinkled with malted ovaltine, / leave none for you. // x I scrape the xx bowl clean, / it's not that I mean to be mean. / You lie there self-absorbed by dreams / and sleep unaware."

*Checko* bogs. Gonzo/Sonali/Robert

*Flowert* 14/06/66

Not all daze are Equal. Disclaimer: I stay away from artificial sweeteners. Got to station by 06:55. I was open and there were only a few scattered seats available. We didn't sit together. I was in #22 and Pan behind me in #26. The bus was nice, comfortable. They gave us water. Left 08:30 and arrived before 16:00. Very quick. No bad weather, no accidents or blockage. Easy-peasy.

I didn't sleep well because I wasn't sure about Pan's alarm. I heard it... fortunately because getting Pan out of bed isn't easy. Had rice and pork for breakfast - the usual. Having fish (sea bass) and rice for supper.

*Checkg* read. Up to chapter 23. Read on the bus.
*Checkg* ss&s.
*Checkg* exor. 100/50/50/200. Easing back in. Back has given me problems. 91 degrees at 17:55. Some shadows.
*Checkg* foto. From bus mostly.
*Checkg* walk. But too much sitting on the bus.

*Checkgr* shop. Jar for Milo. Vegetables.
*Checkgr* ytBL. Past-Senger Ep. 10 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5kDHTApUeQ
*Checkgr* tv25. Special show.

I'm very tired, worn out, depressed. I just want Pan to hold me. He's in bed already but I'm trying to hold out until 21:30 before I collapse.

*Flowerp* 13/06/66

28°C 82°F at 08:40 in SiSaKet. No bus to catch today. Pan sleeps in. I was up around 07:30 and I'm on my second coffee.

*Checkp* bogs. Jennifer/Jim/Steph
*Checkp* ytBL. Past-Senger Ep. 9 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iWZF2IHIoQ

We went out to eat. I tried a shrimp but it must've had a chili on it. I had to spit it out (but washed it off later and ate it). I had a sneezing fit. Not good, but it really confirms whatever is going on with me and chili.

*Checkp* read. Through chapter 14. "Invalid Entry

Noon. 32°C 90°F *Clouds*

Walked to Huai Nam Kwam... a lake, a park, an aquarium (closed). Took lots of photos. Very long hot walk.

*Checkp* foto. 16:00
*Checkp* walk. 16:00

32°C 87°F 16:24 *Cloud*

*Flowery* 12/06/66

81 degrees and blue skies. It wept yesterday evening after a downpour in the late afternoon. Room is too cold for me. A/c isn't always wonderful. Today our plans: we go to the doctor and back to SiSaKet.

*Checky* read. Chapter 7, 8.
*Checky* ss&s. Shaved.
*Checky* ytBL. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hlyEJzfMlo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6F9zQ1LG0uo
*Clouds* 88°F 31°C at 11:00.

Oh... don't even get me started about sitting at the clinic for 5 hours. Imo, Pan considers sleeping and drinking water and eating more important than actually getting any place in a timely matter.

*Moon* 79°F 26°C in SiSaKet at 21:30 after light sprinkles.

*Checky* trip. Bus from Khun Han to SiSaKet.
*Checky* foto. sunset, rice fields.
*Checky* bogs. Charity/Tracker/Johnny
pôod. a little
*Xy* walk. A day of sitting at the clinic, sitting on the bus for 1:45 = no walking.

Two nights in T4 Hotel = 1.300 baht (last night was 350 baht). Yes, it's relative. One night in a hostel can be 300-400 baht/person. So this is reasonable.

To Johnny: "I agree with ideals and goals in spite of what others pursue or block; but, goals without measurable objectives are abstract and 'squishy'.

One example from my experience... I had a bbq in my garden for 15 years on August 28th for MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech. I invited a wide range of people. Usually 30-80 came. I may never know the impact but it was an act I could measure."


To Charity: "There are different stages of life each with its own struggles and joys.

I 'sacrifice' to travel. Not so hard for me now but I may have to make new sacrifices when I stop. I live in about 300 sq. ft. both in Montana and in Thailand. It's what I'm used to. However, that too will change."

Pan was in bed by 9 pm. It's 22:39 and I'm exhausted.

June 4, 2023 at 8:49pm
June 4, 2023 at 8:49pm
#1050580
(exercise) Exor. (observations) obsv. (s***,shave,shower) ss&s. (read something) read. (comment blogs) bogs. (BoyLove series on-line) ytBL. (Thai TV BL series on GMMTV25) tv25. (write poetry or prose) PorP. (take a daily walk) walk. (buy something) shop. (take a photo) foto. (video) วิดีโอ. (speak Thai/Lao) pôod. (learn Thai) Thai. (go-in-the-water) pool. (clothes) wash. (cook something) cook. (tidy up) mess. (travel) trip.

*Mugr* 11/06/66
Update: "Weekly Goals

Up 9-ish. 85 at 11:36. We leave at noon. Hour and 40 minutes to get to Khun Han. So... yeah... making it a day trip would've been exhausting. I took pictures and video along the way. Coffee in KH where Pan greeted friends. Cloudburst just before 17:00.

*Checkr* pôod. gaining confidence. Spoke to man from Khun Han in SiSaKet.
*Checkr* walk. around SiSaKet.
*Checkr* foto.
*Checkr* วิดีโอ. from bus
*Checkr* trip. to Khun Han.
*Checkr* ss&s.
*Checkr* bogs. Harlow/Mighty/Stik
*Checkr* Thai. "and" lae/gab/gab(with)/laew-gaw https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvBAohEfJ0g
*Checkr* ytBL. Past-Senger Ep.6 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvBAohEfJ0g

DJT (Newsweek) "As well as attacking the case as a "witch hunt" against him, Trump also said that if he were to win the 2024 election, he would sign an executive order as president to remove federal funding from schools that teach critical race theory and "transgender insanity" and other "inappropriate racially, political, and sexual content" to children."

In my opinion this equals 'erasure'.

*Mugv* 10/06/66

*Checkv* ytBL. Past-Senger ep.5 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bi-1umow0EI&t=129s
*Checkv* pôod. Trying to speak more.
*Checkv* foto.
*Checkv* วิดีโอ. from bus
*Checkv* trip.
*Checkv* read. Chapter 5.
*Checkv* Thai. Learn Thai - Use of อีก(èeg) (more, again, another)

Today was problematic. Trip to SiSaKet after very little sleep (up at 6 am). 7 hour bus ride. It rained by ราษีไศล Rasi Salai but it was dry when we arrived.

So my to-do list is shot. Plus, I'm having computer problems.

Did read another one of Steven's chapters. I'll get there.

Pan is zoned out. Not good... but we see his doctor Monday.

*Mugb* 09/06/66

*Yawn* 82 at 9:26 *Cloud*

         Up late as I barely slept. Pan came home in a daze at 01:15. One of his periodic episodes. He was burning up and sweating all night, not moving, shallow breaths. Not good.
         I had a nice chat with David L. at the A2 gazebo. Pan has a doctor's appt. on Monday. Good timing?

*Clock2* เที่ยง 87 degrees *Cloud*

*Checkb* Bogs. 12:20 Jennifer/Lyn/Phyllis
*Checkb* ytBL. 13:30 Past-Senger Ep.4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XibNhAoNM0
*Checkb* read. 14:00 Horror story. Chapter 4.
*Checkb* Thai. 15:25 To be https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOyq37i_A3g&t=813s
*Checkb* Exor. 16:00 150/50/50/150 = 400 91 degrees with some clouds.
*Checkb* ss&s. 16:30

*Moon* 84 degrees 19:30

*Checkb* walk. 18:30
*Checkb* shop. 18:30 mouthwash 88 baht, 4 bao 20/ea, milk

To Steven: "Chapter 4: Silence of the Lambs? Someone needed/wanted a new skin? I just want a new body or at least the parts back that I've lost (they can keep the appendix).

By now I've gotten into the rhythm of your verbosity.

The pacing... that last line... a very good hook.

Do all of your chapters have hooks? If so it works a bit like a nineteenth century penny-dreadful. Strong technique."{/}

To Tracker: "My mother became a mother when she had me. I was #2 as she had a miscarriage. I named him Jeremy... because he had no name and no one to mourn him. I was the only son, the golden child, the misfit, the...




*Mugo* 08/06/66

*Yawn* 80-ish degrees at 7-ish. *Clouds*
*Checko* Exor. 08:40 200/75/50/225 = 550
*Checko* obsv. 09:00 black cat on a blue roof; jets, planes, train; smell of grass, piles of grass, weed-cutter and lawn-mower.
*Checko* ss&s. 09:30
*Checko* wash. 09:45 Pan washes clothes.
*Antl* *Ant* *Antr* Exterminator 10-12.
*Checko* read. 10:30 Return "Invalid Entry
*Checko* blog. 11:25 Apondia/Beholden/Rhychus
*Clock* เที่ยง 88 degrees *Clouds*
*Checko* ytBL. 13:45 Past-Senger Ep.3
*Checko* Thai. 17:00 Negatives: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dw_cz0Pxj_I
*Checko* PorP. 17:30 "Monochrome in indigo [180.55] ((8))
*Moon*84 degrees at 7-ish
*Checko* walk. 19:00
*Checko* shop. 19:00 white rose, white lotus, durian
*Checko* tv25. 21:30 Our Skyy
*Xo* pool.
*Xo* mess.
Foto only a couple.
pôod. very little
*Sleeping* 21:50 82 degrees

all color removed except for blue
this nighttime gift of shame you left me
towers I cannot climb
supplications declined
emotions I can never fathom

here in the city
surrounded by millions
I sob all alone [55]

Edited and posted "Monochrome in indigo [180.55] ((8))

To Judith: "Thank you. Lovely pastoral vignette.

By-the-way... I find these interludes important and sometimes lacking in fiction where they can provide setting and ambiance. This would be a nice first chapter to a horror story (contrast can work wonders).

In-real-life, too many people rush when it isn't necessary. Winter's a good case study. Roads not plowed = going nowhere. What gets done gets done. When everything's done one bakes or reads.

Spring however, has always been my favorite season for doing something after being cooped up all winter. Springs came late along the Great Lakes and then hurried in a gush of leaf-green and pollen. I loved the smell of freshly mown grass. Usually in May. Today they whacked and mowed the lawns at the condo here at Lumpini in Udon Thani. Big piles of green, the myna birds searching the short grass.

To live in the North, a place of 4 seasons, one must find the beauty at each time of year. I've settled into the boring routines of the two-season tropics. It's the 1st part of the rainy season when I welcome the downpours that sweep away the trash and cleanse the air. I'm sitting in a covered area watching butterflies and birds. There's musack playing and workers sweeping, but at 10:46 I have the seating area to myself.

Basically... I see someone now and the birds... no frogs or toads at the moment. Where are they when needed to get rid of the pesky flies?"


To Beholden: "Algorithms will dumb us down. I do search for odd things sometimes. Popular vs Peculiar = I was more peculiar. That helps me at times. As does the 'interested in everything'.

Even with the news... I check out the 'enemy' occasionally. Recently, I found out about the dam by Kherson on a weather/climate channel. Nothing on MSN, so I went to Al Jezeera. Now? It's a concern but only in the sense of devastation and possible war escalation. Americans love to watch violence of various ilks.

On youtube I watch The Voice, Thai BL series, Thai language instructions, random music but specifically Dimash."


*Mugg* 07/06/66

In response to a meme posted by Patricia: "Don't argue with creative types ... Why? It would do no good and if they did listen the world would be a darker shade of dismal."

*Yawn* 80 degrees at 8-ish. Was up 7-ish. *Cloud*
*Checkg* ss&s. 09:00 17:15 22:00
*Checkg* Exor. 09:30 300/50/50/300 = 700
*Checkg* PorP. 10:30 "Impatiens [180.54] ((8))
*Checkg* obsv. 09:30 17:00 blue-green and yellow feathered bird perched on the flowering ginger, looking for... nectar, bugs? Splash of puddles, running water in the ditches, fragrant jasmine, growing tips of orchid roots.
*Checkg* blog. 11:40 Marvilla/TJ/Sorji
*Checkg* Thai. 12:05 Barriers* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3ucO0fNVw4
*Clock2* เที่ยง 31°C 87°F *Cloud* Not sure about temp. *Confused*
*Checkg* ytBL. 13:30 Past-Senger Ep. 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRw79M08MOA
*Checkg* foto. 14:00 *Rain* Heavy rain, took video. วิดีโอ ถ่ายวิดีโอ
*Checkg* walk. 17:00
*Checkg* shop. 17:00 น้ำจิ่ม (no chili) กาแฟ 16:45 ไก่ หมู ลิ้นจี่ แครอท ผัก
*Checkg* pôod. นิดนอย
*Moon*80°F 27°C *Clouds*
*Checkgr* read. 19:20 "Invalid Entry Yes, I liked it.
*Checkgr* tv25. 21:30 Our Skyy 2 BadBuddiesxATOTS Ep.3
*Xgr* pool.
*Xgr* mess.

To TJ: Yep. The electric bill near killed me.

It was very hot in May and mostly dry
but the rains have come with grey pregnant skies.

I wear an orange cap and carry an umbrella.
I'm not too stupid. I'm a smart old fella.

I also cover up. Bugs and flies and skeeters...


They bloomed every summer, an oval of soft pink against a backdrop of sage-green cedar. They mirrored my struggle to be patient. I waited. You never responded. Should I have planted firecrackers, a rainbow explosion of color. Edited: "Impatiens [180.54] ((8))

To Dan: Spring came late to Montana. My friends say it's still wet and cool there. Green Season arrived in Isan with the rains. The birds and the bugs love it. And I don't mind 80f/27c overcast degrees. Better'n 95/35 and boiling in my own juices while choking on the smoke!

Well... I woke up with a tummy-ache and loose bowels. I've eaten a little: rice, potato and pumpkin. And fired fish-skins that remind me of chicharrones but easier to eat.

To Marvilla: "I am in the process of making personal adjustments to get my life back on track and more manageable. This. I need to do this periodically. If I don't I'm faced with too many changes all at once and that overwhelms me. So...

Boundaries.

Not as simple as one word for those who need to establish them. And we-both do.

At the moment I still struggle with boundaries but I have made a list of objectives I can check off daily. I'm focused on learning a new language and culture but routines (exorcise/exercise and personal hygiene) are on the list so I don't neglect them. Focusing on accomplishments helps me to say no when I have to say NO (to myself or anyone else).


As for that new cape... what color will it be if I may ask? "

To Sara: "At a safe distance...

I'm not sure that 20 years and 12 time zones are enough but I no longer feel stressed out by the past on a daily basis. Trauma is an unwanted "giver".

So... a smile, a hug, and the proper distance (especially time-wise) is a good idea."


"Birds need to have feathers; people need to have friends." Kiew takes away the phone and makes Bamee look (as in notice). I'm liking Past-Senger in spite of paywalls that won't allow me to watch all of it. Tita Josie seems to be good at cutting (only 60% is allowed on youtube) but I watch for cultural reasons not just to see a love story.

I broke the computer screen. It's a touch screen so... I've had it about 1 year.

I sent this poem from last June to the Senior Forum: "Serenade to Odin's Day

To Petra (edited):

in a rush
in a gush
words tumble
as we blush
shhh—hush

Sometimes we lose it along the way.


*Mugp* 06/06/66

*Yawn* 75 degrees at 8-ish. *Clouds*
*Checkp* Exor. 200/50/50/100 = 600 09:10 Chatted with Tom
*Checkp* pôod. 09:30
*Checkp* obsv. swallows and swallowtails. ants in the bathroom. 09:30
*Checkp* ss&s. 09:40
*Checkp* Thai. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMItJRPfqHA 10:20
*Checkp* blog. Jim/Sonali/Angr 11:00
*Clock* เที่ยง 29°C 85°F *Clouds* Partly cloudy and will rain later. *Smile*
*Checkp* read. Chapter 1 "Invalid Item 14:20
*Checkp* walk. 16:45
*Checkp* tvBL. Past Senger https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qhQF-BV27ps 18:10
*Moon* 87°F 31°C
*Xp* foto.
*Xp* pool. I could have because Pan would've gone with me.
*Xp* PorP

Nice chat with Tom this morning. She's the pink jogger. *Flowerp* Her daughter lives at Lumpini; she lives closer to Nong Prajak. She's from Udon and 64. I can understand her English. She has a Canadian friend and that may be why.

To Angr: "I really liked this. The use of 7/7/7/7 divided 3/4 or 4/3 reminds me of the hymn "Rock of Ages" and adds a musical component to these two verses.

There could be more... a third verse going back in time... maybe two verses... and then a last verse back to the present/future/ancient-past.

I have a variety of traumas and triggers. Not all memories are unpleasant but bad ones once triggered take me back. Photos work well for me, occasionally music (but more for emotion), and fragrance.

Use of the 5 senses to describe a before time might be interesting.

Now I'm back at my grandparents... circa 1960: a red cardinal, smell of rotten tomatoes, lilacs (May 1963), cold floor of the basement (we slept there on hot nights in August), flash of the fireflies, the slant of the hillside, the red sidewalk and white tires of nasturtiums, taste of split pea soup, and fresh baking bread (twice/week). Sound of? Maybe the porch swing... ah... the whistle of the steam engine (Pennsylvania RR main line).

Thank you for taking me down the dirt/gravel path through the hollow."


To Phyllis: "Thank you. It's not always easy and I get frustrated.

I have a major problem with Christians... I realize that it's not fair to lump them together. I fail to understand why, when it comes to sexuality, they can't mind their own business (in Thailand the Buddhists struggle but do much better). I have come to the conclusion that some truly feel that they personally are called upon to save the world from all 'sins' and that they must witness and save family and friends. But once again... why can't they mind their own business?

I need to write a blog about this. There are Christians here who could shed some light on this social-political issue. It's pertinent because of what deSantis and his ilk are preaching.

I'm not always able to consider a different p.o.v. when I feel personally threatened."


To Steven: "I read the first chapter and put it on my daily to-do list.

I don't agree with your concerns though. 1. It's Australia... I don't expect to understand everything. Growing up I had never been to Yorkshire or England, but that didn't stop me from reading "Wuthering Heights". 2. It's not my style of writing (except for ... indicating a pause, a breath ... a ...) but it definitely works for a first chapter in the sense that I want to know the details that you so cleverly left out. 3. Yes, it's the 1980s and dated and that's part of the charm. You were around in that time period so it doesn't come off as 'historical'. A GenZ author couldn't authentically write this without extensive research. 4. You are far too hard on yourself. Yes, writers get beaten down but there's no need to apologize. 5. Since this is the second time this event occurred what about the third? I suspect that the 2020s are due for a repeat of horrors."


To Sarah (zwisis) on FB: "06/06/66 It's the 6th of June in the year 2566 in Thailand. Lots of 6s. No particular meaning attached to that number 6 that I know of. It's a pink day with cotton-puffs that will turn angry later.
How am I doing? I miss the sense of community we had in Blogville over a decade ago. I'm one of the few who still blogs (almost daily) and comments on other people's blogs; but, very little interaction. Y'all know how chatty I am. WdC is more like the Land of the Silent Tight-Lipped Lambs these days.
No duckies, no dogs, horses or pot-bellied pigs.
I feel isolated and depressed on-line and in-real-life. The view from the outhouse I feel I've been relegated to is awesome though..."


We walked to UD Town. I weigh 81.4k; Pan has gained weight and now weighs 77k. Yellow watermelon, roti, fish skin. I liked the fish skin. 50 baht for a bag. 84 degrees at 21:30 and I'm out-of-sorts. *Sad*

*Mugy* 05/06/66

*Yawn* 22 degrees at 07:30.
*Checky* blog. Joy/Sonali/Rhychus/Charity 10:00
*Checky* Exor. 200/100/100/200 = 600 10:50
*Checky* obsv. wet railing, wet window ledges, wet... puddles, birds on a line, frog-croak overnight (up at 03:36), two boys, 8 yrs playing games, wet reflections, cool, breezy, did I mention wet... 10:50
*Checky* Thai. (อยู่)+Prepositions of Place https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYTDRiBxLP8 12:05
*Clock2* เที่ยง 80°F 27°C *Cloud* Overcast.
*Checky* ss&s. 12:30
*Checky* pôod. 13:30
*Checky* tvBL. Eclipse Skyy2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAmKWWHQKPU 15:30
*Checky* Walk. 17:15
*Moon* 84°F 29°C Overcast.
*Checky* foto. clouds, orange flower. 18:15
*Checky* shop. 19:00
*Xy* pool
*Xy* PorP

Mess. I didn't but Pan cleaned.

I'm depressed and there's no one to talk with.

To Joy: "The word vigilante is key here. There's a certain intolerance that's taken hold of the American population again (a latter-day shunning if not criminalization of minor offenses). Although it's evident in writing circles I'm more concerned about politics and social issues.

That said, I've seen people correct my spelling here not realizing that there are regional and dialectical differences or that I may be using a word from a different language (sometimes I'm aware of this, but not always). Ignorance is one thing, billigerence is another.

I tend to use spoken speech and prefer concrete words to academic abstractions. That's frowned upon by some. I like to play with language which is also not always understood or appreciated.

I travel the world so I'm amazed at people's grasp of English while I'm fumbling around in the local language.

To mangle a phrase, "the enemy of good-enough is perfection".


Pan has undergone treatments because he thought he was ugly. He showed me old pictures from before. I could cry. I would have loved him regardless. He tries to compensate with 'toys'. It breaks my heart. *Heartbroken*

May 28, 2023 at 11:53pm
May 28, 2023 at 11:53pm
#1050214
*Mugr* 04/06/66

79 degrees at 07:30. We are still In the Shadow of the Tower.

*Yawn*
*Checkr* Exor. 300/50/50/300 = 700. 08:22 79 degrees
*Checkr* obsv. fallen palm frond, nest, after-the-rains litter, bumble checking out a yellow tube... backing out, long grass needing a trim. 08:30
*Checkr* ss&s. 09:10
*Checkr* blog. Neva/Steph/Harlow 10:35
*Checkr* Thai. dûay: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtuEbwIpYzQ 12:03
*Clock* เที่ยง 93°F 34°C *Clouds**Sun* Overcast.
*Checkr* meee. "Rent has been paid! 13:00
*Checkr* tvBL. Eclipse https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAT5Pte6bNg 14:30 and the finale of UMG 21:30
*Moon*
*Checkr* foto. palm frond, nest, sweet-sour, race. 18:00
*Checkr* Walk. 18:45 Rain = slippery
*Checkr* PorP. 21:30 15 lines, unfinished
pôod. นิดนอย
Shop. potatoes มันฝรั่ง
*Xr* mess.
*Xr* Pool.
*Xr* gnus. I read the Nooz every day but Florida depresses me.

An ugly bag of mostly water glowing from its inner stardust? Star Trek meets Rumi? Something Neva posted got me thinking.

To Steph: "I prefer tap water. I grew up with treated lake water (decent) and in Missoula our water comes from an aquifer (very good). I always drank tap water in Costa Rica as well.

I do prefer it flavored.

In Thailand no one trusts the water... although it's deemed safe. I boil tap water for my coffee. Bottled water just cost us 416 baht for 10 cases (60 1.5 liter bottles = 90 liters). That's about 4.5 baht/bottle or 13 cents US.

By alkaline do you mean soda water? Don't care for it."

To Harlow: "My blogs garner some views but very few comments. My give/get ratio is about 10:1. That's WdC ... not a community!

My photos on facebook do much better. Comments most every day.

I wonder whether fiscally conservative and anal retentive are related. Conservatives, by definition, tend to value stability, conformity, tradition. This is comforting to those who do not want change. Social-liberalism is demanding change. The two don't go well together.

Let me put it this way... to treat everyone as a human being that deserves respect means sharing a piece of your pie. And many people do not want to share with "them" (no matter who "they" are)."


To Phyllis (Newsfeed): "I have had writing goals in the past. 1/day was my go-to for many years. I'm worn out now. If I can do 200/year that's a victory.

I'm doing better with photos. Can take one hundred in a day... or nothing. I'm trying to edit and post at least one/day at facebook. I get better recognition and feedback there (a non-photo, non-writing site) than here.

I've received 3,785 reviews over 18 years. I don't respond to them often though and that's on me. I should, if only to encourage others to review. I shy away from reviewing myself as I don't know much about stories to critique them. And poetry? No one wants me giving them a 2.5 for a grade school haiku that makes me cringe. If I like it I'll give it a 3.0 even if it fails at being a haiku. A 4.0 means I like it, 4.5 means I like it a lot; 5.0 means I'm gushing. However, most writers seem to want/need hugs but cannot differentiate between someone giving them a hug whilst slicing their dubious writing to shreds.

I guess a good goal would be re-reading and editing old works and finishing or polishing them. *Hearto*"

To Erik Petersen "Americans have no problem flying to Paris to take a selfie with the Eiffel Tower, then going to a tourist restaurant and bitching about the French not speaking English... with that mentality there's little hope that Americans will value what they have at home or come to the understanding that what is done everywhere in the world can be done in the U.S. as well (example...U.A.E.). Yes, I sound cynical, but Reserve Street in Missoula could be turned into Torino/Paris and become a great place to live/work/play/visit. But... very little vision other than a developer's bank account. If the only concern is $$$ then that's the answer. We aren't Brisbane which mandates art as part of the exterior and design of a building. To Americans that's "communism" and absolutely verboten. As long as the materialists hold sway then Art will only have crumbs to live off of. Yes, I'm very cynical."

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/the-cost-of-being-trans-in-florida-just-went-u...
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/abcarian-the-persecution-of-an-abortion-doctor...

1. Whether Lauds or None, it's always 3 o'clock somewhere. It was Lauds when the priest's prayers went unanswered and None when his naked body was found.

2. Kissing the door to the freezer was only the second worse problem Isaac faced. Finding a way to unlock it from the inside still eluded him.

3. Daisy peered past the field of dandelions at the naked man approaching her. He looked fine and dandy in her binoculars.

4. Writhing roots converged at the old stump where new purple growth had appeared overnight.

5. Bulls***! Agreed, but I want to know whether that was before or after he was gored.

6. The click-clack wouldn't have bothered him if he weren't sky-diving at 5,000 feet — alone.

7. Flicka knew she had a horse-face, knew that that's why she got the starring rôle.

8. Pansy traipsed around Dillon in his sequined gown. This was his town and anyone who thought different would best move out of his way.

9. "I know I shouldn't count you out but poverty is a crime punishable by death." Bridget was about to find out how right she was.


Bridget Blakley on fb: "I know I shouldn't rant [count you out] but poverty is a crime in the US punishable by death." [Bridget was about to find out how right she was.]

This coming week's forecast: 31/24 and rain every day. Subject to change and reality, of course.

there's a planet where clocks rule time, 8
where nothing new disturbs the day 8
Everyone knows the proper way 8
rhythm's forbidden; there is no rhyme 8
poetry shuns this world 6

and there's a place where no one goes 8
it's dangerous to narrow minds 8
that cannot grasp the jewels they find 8
among the ancient books of prose 8
and tomes of poetry 6

where there's music there's melody 8
and where's there's joy one sees the art 8
weaving wonder within the hearts 8
whilst phrases echo endlessly 8
and know it's poetry 6

15 lines 8/8/8/8/6 abbax no-name-form for "Invalid Item


*Muglv* 03/06/66

Queen's Day

*Checkv* blog. Phyllis/Lilli/Sorji 08:24
*Checkv* obsv. Slight breeze tickling the leaves, shade from a passing cloud, yellow swallowtail, workout/playground colors: red, gold and green, two hooters (herons?), small cotton puffs. 10:50
*Checkv* Exor. 100/50/50/200 = 400 Took it easy. 10:50
*Checkv* blog. Phyllis/Lilli/Sorji 08:24
*Checkv* ss&s. 11:20
*Clock2* เที่ยง 97°F 36°C *Clouds**Sun* Rain in the forecast.
*Checkv* PorP. "Waiting for Jack 13:45
*Checkv* foto. Nong Bua, Wat, video of Pan eating. Dog on red carpet. 16:30
*Checkv* Walk. 17:00 82 degrees
*Checkv* Thai. Days/colors https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JLaz2D6f9Bw 17:50
pood. นิดนอย
*Moon*
*Checkv* tvBL. Our Skyy คาธ | EP.1:1-2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tguDILOBcI4
*Xv* Pool.

"Chapter One

Forgotten among the zoysia, now faded sepia, all color drained after Summer fled south... one lone baseball faces the coming cold and Jack Frost's arrival. Will Jack want to play ball? 29w

empty and silent 5
a round object sitting 6
on bleached out grass 4

I was laid to rest 36 hours ago; but my back doesn't like cold hard rock. I snuck past Mary-the-mourner not to wake her up. I craved a bowl of rice. 7/11 was open so I bought two and came back to leave one for Mary. She would be hungry when she woke up. I went for a walk. Never came back.

That's my story. At least the one I experienced. I've seen other recounts of that last week but I won't bother correcting them. I have more important unfinished business to attend to. I've moved on from the trauma.

Next time I die though, please put a toe tag with my true identity: "unknown".
127w

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/what-people-misunderstand-about-nimbys/ar-AA1c...

40 word prompts for the following dates:-
06/01/2023- 'You'
06/02/2023- 'new'
06/03/2023-'cylinder'
06/04/2023-fantastic'
06/05/2023-'goal'
06/06/2023- 'Up and down'
06/07/2023-reciprocal'
06/08/2023-'behind'
06/09/2023-'shadow'
06/10/2023-'save'

The view from the swing had always been lonely, except on Tuesday afternoons when ghosts gathered and his sister joined his vigil. "Hook of the Book

สลึง = 1/4 baht.

17:00 82 degrees and sprinkles on the way back from the Wat where Pan made merit on this holy day, Visakha Buja Day.

To Erik Petersen: "Art Nouveau is wonderful in many ways. Ålesund in Norway was rebuilt around 1910 in Art Nouveau and Riga is known for it. Brisbane has ordinances requiring buildings to include art. Over time it will surpass Sydney architecturally; Melbourne is bland. So are most modern American cities. At least a place like Dubai is promoting buildings-as-sculpture. Missoula? Mostly boring. But it needn't be that way. For those who cite the expense I beg to differ. Art is a minimal expense with a huge impact. As long as Americans demand uniformity and conformity (looking at U... Utah Valley) and not encouraging or even allowing self-expression this will be a problem. When Art is considered the play-thing of the wealthy instead of a right accessible by all this is the sad result."

"A TV Show Called Earth" (Philip Labes) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YXuPF2XmQWo

*Lightning**Rain* Around 9 pm it came crashing down. Wonderful! 80°F Westerly gusts.

*Mugb* 02/06/66

*Yawn*
*Checkb* foto. 08:20 Shadows, patterns
*Checkb* Exor. 200/50/50/200 = 500 08:30 81°F
*Checkb* ss&s. 09:15
*Checkb* rent. 11:45 Paid 4 months July through October.
*Clock2* 12 เที่ยง *Sun* 35°C Hot. Will it rain?
*Checkb* PorP. "Decade by decade. 12:44
*Checkb* blog. Lyn/Annette/Sonali 13:06
*Checkb* obsv. kid's shoes, worker watering, wet shadows, thunder, rainbow 17:30
*Moon*
pood. นิดนอย
*Checkb* Walk. 19:00
*Checkb* Shop. 19:00 lotus, rose, fish, Milo. Pan bought 10 six-packs of 1.5 liter bottled water for 416 baht. 90 liters at 4.6 baht/liter (= 13 US cents/liter).
*Checkb* Thai. Daily routines https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ab-7F54b0dQ 22:21
*Checkb* tvBL. Be My Favorite. 21:30
*Xb* Pool.

I was cooler this morning. If I can get to the workout station around 8 it's not bad. The towers cast long shadows. In June the workout station is in the shadow of tower A2.

I feel like s***. I'm tired, weak, distraught, depressed.

*Mugo* 01/06/66

*Yawn*
*Checko* ss&s. 08:30
*Checko* visa. 09:20 till July 1st
*Clock* 12 เที่ยง *Sun*
*Checko* blog. Carol/Stik/Pumpkin 12:30
*Checko* wash. Pan decided that today was the day. 13:45
*Checko* Thai. 30 phrases https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNHBND20ti8 14:13
*CheckO* Exor. 100/50/75/300 = 525. I was 100 degrees. Used gloves. 16:18
*CheckO* Foto. Work station, thunderheads. 17:45
*Moon*
*CheckO* tvBL. 20:30 Skyy 2 ... ATOTS meets BadBuddies. This episode kinda works.
*CheckO* Pool. 20:00 I was able to float on my back! First time since I was a child.
*Checko* PorP. blog entry "After all this time I'm still me 20:45
*Checko* obsv. Thunder, lightning! Rain at 9 pm. frog croak, glistening slippery sidewalks. The gate to the wat closed, late night diners, puddles, the pool like bath water. 22:30
*CheckO* Walk. 22:30 26°C
pood. นิดนอย

I need to write to this: "Quotation Inspiration: Official Contest "A million dreams are keeping me awake"

I'm exhausted. At least I reconnected with David. I have no friends here at the moment. He suggested the Sport's Bar in the red-light district. Guess some friendly Australians hang out there.

38C degrees at 13:49. I got up to 100F. There was thunder to the west. Big angry clouds. Got a decent photo. Wish the windows were clean.

Forgot that I'm Premium-plus! and can set up another blog. Welcome: "Bibimbap 비빔밥 Plus I can add photos!

Cardamom... earthy, piney; bite of cinnamon, nutmeg... earthy, sweet; cloves fragrant, anise licorice,

Prison slang: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/11-slang-terms-you-ll-only-hear-in-prison-a...

*Mugg* 31/05/66

30°C at 08:11. *Sun**Clouds* Nursing a coffee. Today: work on writing. Try not to stress about tomorrow (Immigration - visa), Friday (Rent?), Saturday (Holy Day วันวิสาขบูชา Visakha Bucha, Queen's birthday, offices closed and also on Monday the 5th, Buon Bang Fai in Roi Et).

*Yawn*
*Checkg* Exor. 200/50/50/200 No problems. 09:20
*Checkg* blog. Neva/Judith/JohnnnyO 10:50
*Checkg* ss&s. 11:10
*Checkg* Thai. 5 tones https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNhjPTkBeKw 11:37
*Clock* 12 เที่ยง
*Checkg* PorP. "Snakeheads [180.51] 16:00 needs edit
*Moon*
*Checkg* Walk. 19:00
*Checkg* Foto. Yellow and purple flowers. Pool. 19:30
*Checkg* Pool. 19:45
*Checkg* tvBL. Our Skyy 2 Bad Buddy meets ATOTS... wtf... 21:30
*Checkg* obsv. Bird chasing bug, dappled shadows; thunderheads.
pood. A little.
mess. A little.

Breakfast/frokost: White rice and grilled chicken and grilled pork. I added chopped peanuts and sauce and sliced cucumber. 10:20

To Judith: "I didn't know I had rights growing up. Just being me was 'wrong'. Americans want to vote on everything but refuse to acknowledge the personal freedom to define oneself.

I believe in Human Rights. Americans don't. Which is why your comment "We are not free to inflict damage on other people's rights. is so important imho.

I know that I'm generalizing; but, I have experienced being the recipient of other people's angers, fears and ignorance."

ss&s: morning routines freshening up. May seem silly to most folks but years of depression and not giving-a-rats-ass means that it has to be on my list. I need to 'work' today. It would be easy to just ignore getting dressed, hygiene, eating or anything else on my list.

Thai conjoined twins: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2LSdPvPRFA

I entered the Senior contest. "Sunsets of Sunflowers
Trying to enter "What a Character! : Official WDC Contest
"Snakeheads
"Elemental

*Muglp* 30/05/66

*Yawn*
*Checkp* blog. Elizabeth/Ken/Tracker 09:10
*Checkp* obsv. partly cloudy cotton puffs, the sun plays with the shadows; shade, sticky, barely a breeze, black&white feathers in flight, pesky flies, my bite itchy, reddened, not healing, whoop of a bird. 10:25
*Checkp* Exor. 200/100/100/200 10:40 88 degrees and *Clouds*
*Checkp* ss&s. 11:40
*Sun**Clouds*
*Checkp* Thai. Tones: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXWiObQ9xu8 13:45
*Checkp* tvBL. พระจันทร์มันไก่ Ep.8 online. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIMM-79wRno It ends. 17:00
*Moon*
*Checkp* Walk. 19:00
*Checkp* Foto. 19:00
*Checkp* Pool. 20:00
*Checkp* PorP. 21:15 "Haiku [180.49]
*Xp* pood.

*Sun* 86 degrees at 08:14

Alice bunnied across the room like a wounded grasshopper, zig-zagging as if her life depended on it. When she entered the board meeting she let go like a rock-slide taking out two executives. The CEO smiled. "Spare?" She thundered and let go a torrent. 44w

Entered Shadows & Light: "HERE LIES A QUEER

I'm not going to beat up Cruz on this: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/ted-cruz-calling-uganda-s-anti-gay-law-h...

TO @victorhugolab "Exactly... I saw those comments too and thought WTF? My boyfriend's mother is 60 but looks 40 by-the-way, so even that is lost on Westerners. My experience is global so I agree that the audience is Asia and specifically Thailand. I stated to someone else: "Jim/Jam are early? 40s and GenX/Millenial. They would have been through the coup d'état of 1991, 2006 and 2014. Isan (Sakon Nakhon where they are from) has been more progressive, more leftist, more Lao, more rural and more repressed than the powers in Bangkok. This may be lost on Westerners as these issues cannot be approached directly. Wen is often seen wearing orange... which is the color of the young progressives that just won the elections on May 14th. Subliminal or intentional? Possibly." I'm in Udon Thani and really appreciate the ways these BL series include culture and language. The silly boy-meets-boy in a private school in Bangkok origins have become deeper with genres added (horror, mystery, crime, etc.) and, with the financial backing, incredible cinematography, great OSTs, and A level actors (Khaotung, Earth, First, among them). They also address mental illness, deafness, disabilities, poverty, physical illness... they are expanding into showing everyday life, including actors who are not bleached-blond Western-wannabes or ethnic Thais (or Thais with light-skinned Chinese heritage) from Central Thailand."

It was 98 in the late afternoon. It was hard taking a walk. I did see a toad/frog and a skink. Got some photos, but overall it was a bust. I came back exhausted to find no one home as Pan decided to go swimming without me. I did join him but this does not make me happy.

*MugY* 29/05/66

Chronologically:
*Yawn*
*Checky* Exor. 200/50/50/300 ish. A small boy in diapers wanted to join me. *HeartO* 88 degrees. 11:40 = late.
*Sun*
*Checky* obsv. Yesterday; puddles, jet overhead, running to catch Pan, slight pain of the twist, yellow leaves and flowers, slippery tiles, dog bark, moto-roar. Today: young boy looking, thinking, playing. Faint clouds. Rick's cigarette. Pan splayed out in bed. 12:34
*Checky* ss&s. 12:55
*Checky* PorP. Comb/goat/island They climb trees. They eat fruit, s*** nuts, that we collect, that we press into oil. rake the ground then comb your hair. No woman is an island when goats must be tended. "In Sousse-Massa [180.48] ((8)) 13:07
*Checky* Foto. Food. 14:00
*Checky* tvBL. พระจันทร์มันไก่ EP.7:1 online. Reaction by Javi. 17:00
*Xy* Pool. Pannya didn't want to tonight.
*Moon*
*Checky* Walk. 18:30
*Checky* Shop. 18:30 local market for vegetables, pork. Pannya cooked.
*Checky* blog. Storm/Stik/Whirls/NormaJean 20:09
*Checky* Thai. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NoV4AFQ8UIY 22:30
pood. Spoke a few words but not really.
mess. Pannya made breakfast for me, swept the floor. I did a little.

I wrote a blog entry based on my poem, put it on the Newsfeed as well. "Maya Angelou's advice... when will I know better?

so far it looks like a productive day; but, I'm unhappy. Lost 4.200+ words that were supposed to become a blog entry. Can't redo it tonight. I rejected Pannya's food because the egg was runny and the veggies under-cooked. I'm not upset with him but he may think that I am. I cringe over raw eggs. I can't chew raw vegetables. My teeth are bad. I explained that they need to be chopped. I hope I'm not stressing him as he gets depressed easily. So... I need to smile. *Smile*

May 22, 2023 at 12:25am
May 22, 2023 at 12:25am
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28/05/66

*Checkr* blog. Critic/AmyJo/Tigger 09:55
*Checkr* Exor. 200/100/50/200 10:30
*Checkr* Walk. 11:30
*Checkr* Foto. 12:00
*Checkr* ss&s. 12:30
*Checkr* shop. Pannya needed goggles, food (always) and we saw the Little Mermaid. 18:30
*Checkr* Pool. 20:15
*Checkr* tvBL. UMG 21:00
*Checkr* Thai. 22:55
*Xr* PorP.

To Cricket: "I think it could help me write a skeleton of a story that I could then revise.

Or... it could create entertainment and I'd never have to read nor write again.

We already have enough entertainment available on-line. There isn't any need to leave the cave, interact with real people or create anything new. We won't live long enough to listen to all the music on youtube or learn everything at wikipedia.

It can lead to stagnation: the regurgitation of yesterday's offerings."

"I was 100 years old the day you were born. I'm only 82 now. Together we'll always be 100. May you live so long so you can see me as a youth and I can see my childhood again."

Pannya believes in rituals and keeping the cultural norms... so, of course, he ordered enough food for both of us even though I didn't want to eat. We took half home. Which is fine with me. I tried to explain, but we're in Thailand.

Earlier... it rained in the morning, not as hot a day. Gloomy but by night a beautiful moon and Venus.

My life is getting into a rut. The good news: I'm doing okay. The bad: I'm very isolated and have no friends.

27/05/66

*Checkv* Exor. 200/100/50/250. 09:15
*Checkv* ss&s. 10:40
*Checkv* Fast. Finished breakfast at 10:55. Pannya cooked fish and rice.
*Checkv* blog. Joy/Neva/Robert 11:24
*Checkv* Foto. 13:15
*Checkv* Walk. 13:15
*Checkv* PorP. "Run, run, run [180.47] M#19 40w 15:45
*Checkv* tvBL. พระจันทร์มันไก่ | EP.6 1-4 "I can live anywhere. But it's damn lonely." 18:00 (again on TV)
*Checkv* Pool. 20:00
*Checkv* Thai. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pU0k13dr7_k EP.1 22:20

It was 80 at 8 am, 87 at 10 am. Partly cloudy. Wish it would rain. Most likely tomorrow. 85 at 21:14. After the swim... ate what Pannya had cooked: rice with pork, raisins...

Observations: A woman blowing bubbles for a little girl, my burn has healed, bite still reddened, tree-loppers, floor-swishers, phone-talkers, sod-layers? tile-fixers? (both not today),

40 words:
05/27/2023-'run' I would walk away. As fast as I should. I would say little. Nothing if I could. Don't want your crumbs. Don't think it's fun. I'm not so dumb. I'm not your chum. Stultify, nullify, justify, petrify. Good guy? bad guy? bye-bye and I run, run, run. 47 Edited, posted.
05/28/2023-'wish'
05/29/2023-'will'
05/30/2023-'next'
05/31/2023-'prime'

26/05/66

*Checkb* Exor. 300/50/50/200 10:30 Cut back on twisting and swaying. My back isn't 100%
*Checkb* cook. rice, pork, duck-eggs, quail eggs, onion, green, cabbage... 11:00
*Checkb* ss&s. 12:30
*Checkb* blog. Sorji/Gemini/Cappucine 13:05
*Checkb* tvBL. พระจันทร์มันไก่ | EP.5 1-4 16:30 บทกวีของปีแสง (You Are My Favorite, Botkawi Khong Pisaeng) 21:30
*Checkb* Foto. 18:45
*Checkb* Walk. 19:00
*Checkb* Pool. 19:50 Something bit me.
*Checkb* PorP. 20:15 "This weight of water [180.46] M#18 40w
*Checkb* Thai. LTT S2:11-13 23:00

84 degrees at 11:10. Cloudy. 89 degrees at 19:10. Not as hot today.

Pannya thinks I'm hot... *Bigsmile*

So I took my temp.

97.9.

Guess I'm not.

But truthfully? I feel a bit feverish and listless. I'm worn out.

But at least Pannya thinks I'm hot. *Vamp*

14:01... lying in bed under the a/c watching "Moonlight Chicken". I ate a bit more. Wonder whether that will help or not.

Pannya focuses on rules and rituals. He interrupts me when I'm writing or doing something important to me because I've broken one of the rules and that must be attended to first.

This. This is why the Swiss aren't known for expressive creativity. Fortunately they can be a haven for folks like Tina Turner... but she would never have become her creative self growing up there.

บทกวีของปีแสง (You Are My Favorite, Botkawi Khong Pisaeng) is new... and twisted. Vi får se.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmcA9LIIXWw

25/05/66

*Checko* Exor. 200/50/50/200 84 degrees and an easterly breeze. 08:40
*Checko* blog. Harlow/Judith/Dianne 10:30
*Checko* Wash. 12:50 Pannya washes the clothes
*Checko* tvBL. พระจันทร์มันไก่ EP.4:3-4 online. 13:45 TV: Our Skyy 2 is an annoying farce. Thumbs down.
*Checko* rose. white 15:00
*Checko* Foto. rain video, tattoo, market, Lumpini 15:15
*Checko* Walk. 14:30-15:30 slow walk getting wet.
*Checko* shop. eggs, greens, light bulb, TP. 18:30
*Checko* Pool. 19:20
*Checko* ss&s. 19:30
*Checko* PorP. "HERE LIES A QUEER [180.44] ((8)) "The best, the better, and the rest [180.45] M#17 40w 20:55
*Checko* Thai. LLT S2:8-13 23:05

07:26 and 81 degrees. May have sprinkled. May sprinkle again. May not get as hot today!

Saw three monks walking with a helper (novice?) with a cart following. The street behind us seemed busier at 7 then it will be later. Also: bumblebee, women in a pink blouse high stepping, an ant among the fragrant orchids, heavy equipment making noises, one hoot by the southbound 08:20 train, finches, mynas, the elevator floor still damp from being mopped.

93 degrees at 14:00 and getting dark. It poured around 14:30 and cooled down drastically. Now 80 degrees at 18:00. May rain again overnight. One can hope. The land still thirsts. Another slurp would be best.

To Harlow "Oh... I'll hop in! One of the issues of Western Christian culture is a dualism that goes back at least to the time of Moses and Zoroaster. The right/wrong black/white paradigm does not allow for other options found naturally (like 3 lobed, 4 lobed, 5 lobed leaves and repetitive patterns of fractals).

If modern-day Christians would learn something from Biology 101 they wouldn't be puzzled by multi-gender cultures found around the world. With their insistence on purity (my way or the way to hell) they have unintentionally killed and, intentionally, murdered millions.

In Thailand "lady boys" are referred to as lady boys and lesbians are tom or dee. In biology, XXY, XXX, and X are well-known among geneticists and secondary sexual manifestations are just accepted as such. Fascinating knowledge, but Christians cannot cope with anything outside of the narrow high-walled, deep-moat, gated existence of the self-righteous.

I have had acquaintances and friends in all of these categories. But... I'm old. It took time to actually meet people because not everyone felt safe decades ago and still don't. A certain openness, on my part and theirs, helped. It would have happened sooner but I was very shy and private growing up. Still am about many things.

As far as chopping "things" off... eunuchs didn't always have a choice. Apparently, they were considered safe among women (google 'eunuch'... quite fascinating) and accepted in roles that restricted men.

In a gender dichotomy without a trans category (or any other options) I accept a person as whatever they say and however they present themselves."

The Hill we die on will be blood stained with the miscarriage of justice, just us shouting through the silence of those muted by your dogmatic bigotry gifted to you by generations of hatred and fear. Hear us when we say queer. Hear us when we shout queer. Bury us with the epitaph, here lies a Queer. We will shout from the graveyard, my dear. ((8))

"​@tinagary3696 MSTSL ... make sure your learn Thai (American-French sign family) not Taiwanese (Chinese-Korean sign family) sign language. In Thailand you could do both. I'm in Udon Thani in Isan (Thai/Lao speaking with a large Vietnamese community). No need to stay in Bangkok or the beach unless that's your preference. This series is placed in Pattaya, a major ex-pat party hub but Thailand is big and amazingly diverse. Visit as a traveler (one month max is good for a 30 day visa) then fall in love with the people in a place that speaks to you."

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/why-i-like-ron-desantis/ar-AA1bEVx3?cvid...

24/05/66

*CheckG* Exor. 200/100/100/300 09:20
*Checkg* Foto. Flowers, gazebo, workers 09:30
*Checkg* blog. Robert/Brian/Elizabeth 10:15
*Checkg* ss&s. 10:40
*Checkg* PorP. "At the zenith [180.43] M#16 40w 11:15
*Checkgr* Walk. To UD Town. Shopped at Lotus. 19:00
*Xgr* Pool. I got bit and Pannya won't let me swim until it's okay.
*Checkgr* Thai. LLT S2: 8-10 22:00
*Checkgr* tvBL. พระจันทร์มันไก่ EP.4:1-2 online. Our Skyy 2. 22:25

88 degrees at 09:44 which isn't so bad. My body is definitely getting used to the heat, but I still must be careful. Part of my problem yesterday may have been the walk I took when it was stifling hot.

I'm finally eating left-over rice with an egg. It's 10:50 and 90 outside with barely a flutter (3 mph) of a breeze.

98 degrees at 14:00 and no rain. *Worry* We need the rain and I need a break from the extreme heat.

23:57 ... pee and go to bed. *Yawn* 81 degrees. I don't think it rained in town.

The Hill We Climb (or is it the hill we die on) https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/author-of-poem-removed-from-florida-school-fir...

40 words:
05/24/2023-'Golden' Retrieved: At the zenith a golden retriever smiles as always, happy to be loved, even happier to return that love. Whatever is thrown his way he brings back, again and again. Nothing is ever lost, not a ball, not a toy, not one stray happy thought. He always finds what his master is looking for. For him, that's enough. 57w Edited, posted.
05/25/2023-"The Best" the better and the rest. In your world of morality/venality/normality/exceptionality /totality, we who are merely mediocre dare not apply our exceptionality nor bow to your totality.
05/26/2023-'depth' Depression Glass: At the bottom what lies above crushes (the lies above crush the crystal vase that contains our soul). Yet this weight holds bones and flesh and thoughts in place. In the shallows all pain and sorrow would be released and dispersed. He returns to the depths to hold on to his treasures. 40w
Served on a platter: Breakfast was served on her very best china by her favorite eunuch of a husband. Her second favorite had served her earlier in bed. She felt sated by the mere memory of salty sweat. She'd taken two hot showers just to savor and relive them.

Character Prompt for May 2023:

Whatacharacter: An opsimath is someone who begins to learn or study only late in life.
Write a story about an opsimath of an unusual field or subject matter.

Once a May Queen, once a maiden, then a vampire, now immortal, the memories of a sunlit pasture with sunny flowers would lose all color. The books would have to do. As would the friendly mole and badger. They brought food ... now and then ... she had suffered on crumbs above ground. Here she would be grateful for less.

she listened to the gurgle of water; each whoosh or trickle told her what season it was and carried the news from above. she withdrew into the liminal space between here and there where nothing mattered.

she studied the language of water. It was older than her and she'd always valued the wisdom of elders. she cupped some in her hand. hot or cold, clear or murky/foggy in a rush or languid she knew the messages they conveyed. Her journals held the notes of one thousand years and the tears of generations of humanity. she was no longer human but refused to deny that she had been born a daughter of warlike barbarians. she would die in peace, if she were ever granted her greatest wish ... to just die.

Bard: pictures and haiku.

1095327 winds among the mighty / leaves wither from fallen branches 14
1093743 jayhawk's dim view / stone framed by crab apple blossoms 13 S
1092605 a tracery of purple redbud / a puddle surrounded by friends 16 S?
1099710 old larch tree knees / what lurks beneath the pond's surface 12
1543992 october tenth leaves / red gold leaves hold on tight 11 S

entry:644820 "May all life be a calm summer morning" In the voice of a boy 16
calm july morning / voice of a boy
1551694 fragile pink blossoms / the dinner will be served late 12

To Michelle Tuesday on FB: Missed out a lot over the years. Too many doubts, too many fears. I should be grateful for this chance, one fleeting fling before Death's dance.

23/05/66

Chronologically:
*Checkp* Exor. 200/75/75/200. My back aches just a bit so I did what I could.
*Checkp* blog. Jim/Jennifer/Beholden
*Checkp* ss&s. 11:40
*Checkp* PorP. "Lordie me [180.42] M#15 40w [18+] 13:25
*CheckP* Thai. LLT S2: 6-8 14:35
*Checkp* Walk. Nong Bua 16:30
*Checkp* Foto. Nong Bua 16:30
*Checkp* Shop. Duck and quail eggs, Milo. 16:45
*Checkp* mess. Not much to do.
*Checkp* tvBL. พระจันทร์มันไก่ EP.3:1-4 20:55 online.
*Xp* Pool.

87 degrees at 09:38. Light grey cloud cover should give way to rain this afternoon. อาจมีฝนตกในช่วงบ่ายนี้ One can hope. Forecast for the week: 95/77 with rain probable. 91 degrees at 11:50. Out of the sun it doesn't feel so bad. My body has acclimated somewhat.

Notes: fragrant pink orchid, spent white trumpets, "cool" handlebars, pesky flies, twitter, clouding over, weak sun, mottled brown slug (5 cm), pigeons and doves, white, oranges, yellow, pink, violet, red flowers.

Sad/happy note: seems like the anti-ant chalk is working. I applied some last night. But... found some in the rice. *Worry*

Cooking. Pannya usually cooks but I felt like it today and he got up late as usual. Sometimes he'll get up, make rice for me, and go back to bed. He randomly cleans, so I cleaned just a tad. Noon: he's resting/sleeping.

It's 97 at 14:36 and it wants to rain. Time for a walk (with my umbrella). Didn't rain. I walked to the Chinese Cultural Center and Nong Bua. Saw Ben. Then walked across the tracks to UD Town and bought eggs at Lotus. Pannya did get up and actually cooked rice.

I'm worn out, weak, not feeling well. I'm worried about Pannya but I'm also worried about myself. Watching Moonlight Chicken makes me weepy. It's the perfect hour to call Gare... and I'm afraid.

87 degrees at 21:17. I went out for a short walk. It's now 23:40 and time to nod off... if I can.

Last night/today is the commemoration of the Declaration of The Bab.

22/05/66

Up at a decent hour. 93 degrees when I exorcised (not a typo). No oomph = did less. Air looks bad. One doesn't see air when it's good. Hopefully the rains return tomorrow. Now 97 at 11:20.

Finished my 40w. Started studying Thai. Ate some rice and fish. Coffee. Fuzzy headed. I want to take a nap.

Dancing with fears. Dance. Dance the dance macabre. Dance as if your life depends on it. It does. Dance the dance that only you can dance. Dance until you drop in a swoon for all the beauty you've created.

Random memory of Lima 1974. No clue why... was I dancing? I did feel free. I was so distraught that I'd given up. Is 'not caring' a type of 'letting go'.

Two hour nap may not have been the brightest idea. I'm groggy now at 14:49. An oppressive 95 outside. Big thunder clouds. ฝนตกแล้วเหรอ? 98 at 16:22. I really need to go for a walk. Bought bananas and took some photos.

กินข้าวกับเนย ซื้อกล้วยสิบเก้าลูก 30 baht

*Checky* PorP. "Mirror, mirror... [180.41] M#14 40w
*Checky* Thai. LLT S2:4-6
*Checky* Pool.
*Checky* Walk. Bought bananas.
*Checky* Foto. ถ่ายภาพ Dog, hat, chickens, flower. Pool.
*Checky* Exor. 100/100/100/200 Not feeling too good. ฉันควรออกกำลังกายทุกวัน
*Checky* tvBL. On-line พระจันทร์มันไก่ EP.1-EP.2
*Xbr* mess. ทำความสะอาดระเบียบ
*Checky* ss&s. I remembered without putting this here, but I should anyways. อึโกนหน้าอาบน้ำ

QOTD for Lilli: "My (almost) daily objectives *Checky* as recorded in my weekly blog "Porthole.

PorP. Poetry or prose. At the moment 40 words and Express it in 8. The bottom line: write every day.
Thai. I must practice and use Thai e.v.e.r.y day; otherwise, why am I here? Pannya has noticed my effort.
Pool. I never learned how to swim. We have a pool! So... every day I try to deal with my fears.
Walk. It means I get out, say hello or take pictures, get to know my way around or just walk for the exercise.
Foto. Flowers, culture, animals, buildings, sunsets... whatever. I've taken some underwater photos and video.
Exor. Exorcize/exercise. What's the difference. There is a 4 station work-out. I need to strengthen muscles.
tvBL. Thai BL series help me learn language, culture and helps me deal with old personal issues.
mess. I'm not as organized or orderly as I should be, so I should work on my mess to make it better.
ss&s. s***, shave and shower, etc. Sounds silly except that it's so easy to not take care of myself.

If I do these daily I make new habits. Living in another country is not a picnic."

May 15, 2023 at 7:40am
May 15, 2023 at 7:40am
#1049623
21/05/66

Up at a decent hour. A dreary 91 degrees at 09:05. Breakfast: rice gruel with pork. Workout: yellow and white butterflies, a bee, a bug, a fly, two doves and one orangeish squirrel traipsing along the fence.

*Checkr* PorP. "Nothing to do with it [180.40] M#13 40w
*Checkr* Thai. Online and book
*Checkr* Pool.
*Checkr* Walk.
*Checkr* Foto. A couple flowers.
*Checkr* Exor. 100+100/100+100/100/300 (m,m,no hands). 800 total. Not so bad when there's a bit of shade.
*Checkr* tvBL. UMG. Chicken on-line.
*Checkr* baht. Withdrew money. Since the charge is 220 baht, I usually take out 20,000 then nurse it for as long as I can.

05/21/2023-'good' I resolved to give up being perfect as there was never a past - present - future that was perfect. But I did something right by mistake and won the lottery! I swear, dear Mae, goodness had nothing to do with it1.
05/22/2023-'always' Never have I broken my heart. Torn it a few times? Sure. And my bones? A few. What about promises? Ah, there you've got me. And me in the mirror? I've learned to love you... but I'll always remember... how you hurt me.
05/23/2023- 'Lordie me' Can you write a political limerick? Sure. Lord Lundy of Lim'rick got lucky/mucky. Ron deSantis of Disney's just yucky/sucky. They met in a bar. Where under a star. They met Donald the twice loser duckie. What about Joe Biden? Joe's not bad he's just cheugy. [lounged while the lugers lost their luster] a study in alliteration or a limerick.

We have no rights to our individuality: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/mississippi-transgender-teen-will-miss-high-sc...

To Steven re "Webster": I get the impression that you didn't like it. *Laugh* Remakes and rip-offs can work as good as or better than the original, especially when the barrier to understanding is culture or language.

An example from my life: I'm sure that the movie "A Man Called Otto" is done well; but, I understood "En man som heter Ove" quite fine, thank you. It may be because of my Swedish heritage, and where as Otto as a curmudgeon has to be explained, Ove is iconic.

What the need to remake Ove does for me is highlight how Americans have lost the understanding of Europeans in a century of mixing and isolation.

To wit: Black Americans by any synonym are not Africans and Thais of Chinese heritage are not Chinese. In the US it varies by ethnic group. Swedes became americanized swifter than Norwegians; Greek Americans are still Greek... in many ways. With any group it's possible to emphasize the similarities or differences.

But back to "Webster". I don't remember the show very well. I was in a different stage of life in the 80s than you were and, as you pointed out, your sister had a totally different reaction. My older sister and I did not grow up in the same family that my younger sister did. Yes, in the same house with the same parents, but the family dynamics had changed in 8 years.

Note: I comment here because your book format only allows for reviews. With 47 entries so far you're doing a good job though."

To Stik: "Glad you explained why passing people is a problem. I didn't connect the dots.

As for potholes... why would any course have a hazard? Although, I can trip over myself on uneven pavement... so...

My legs are "short". I don't have a body suited for running. I'm a bit knock-kneed... again, not suitable. My lungs... *sigh*. Also, I'm old, but that's just a lame excuse.

I am trying to work out daily! *Shock2* But I'm not interested in strength or endurance. I'm trying to work on flexibility and lower back and thigh muscles. An ND (from Malaysia of Indian heritage working in China... gotta love hostels!) I met in Bangkok pointed out how I wasn't walking properly. His free advice was priceless."

Well... I know the word for ant, but haven't yet found ant-killer. Ah... maybe at Lotus. 12:55. The Resident Zombie has risen from his bed. 99°F 37°C. I walk slow, stick to the shade when I can. I'm vampish; heat does not amuse me.

Pannya ran out of money. He gave half to his mother because he bought a smart-phone. He ate out, bought a watch. Money lasted less than a week. 10 days left in the month and he has nothing.

To Stik: "I wasn't prepared for the isolation and lack of mobility. Without a car and with travel restrictions I was marooned in a town that closed its cafés and shut down its social life other than bars and casinos.

The anti-everything-scientific folks and the anti-everything-decent leader more than annoyed me. Anxiety and depression assailed me.

Is it over? No. Am I obsessed with it? No. How about isolation and mobility, anxiety and depression? I managed in Montana but I'm struggling here in Thailand due to language, culture and climate. Still, I feel healthier than in 2021 and 2022.

I was traumatized long before covid; but, covid didn't help because my coping skills of travel and connection were severely compromised."

20/05/66

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWBlFUnnqY4

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/andrew-sean-greer-a-gay-writer-in-search-of-tr...

How many shades of gay are there? I lived in farmland Kansas when I was 23... loved it... but deSantis has a christo-fascist vision for his Amerikkka... and that is NOT acceptable to me. Better Thailand.

*Checkv* Thai. TalkThai and book.
*Checkv* PorP. "Crow [180.39] M#12 40w
*Checkv* Exor. 100/100/100/300 (bicycle mfs medium-fast-slow) Thai.
*Checkv* Pool. Scooted along edge on my back. Making progress to 7/11. Bought soap and mouthwash.
Walk. Only a short walk.
*Checkv* Foto. At the pool, in our room.
*Checkv* tvBL. Moonlight Chicken

I'm weak and dizzy. Not a good sign. Pannya came back very late (early?). Es mejor decir la madrugada; no hay palabra en inglés. He put the a/c on freezing and that made it hard for me to sleep. I got to bed at 2 am and got up late. Nap?

Noon: 37°C = 98°F ... for the next 5 hours. Except... it may have rained and I was able to exercise when it was still a tad cloudy. Makes a huge difference.

Today is a purple day. I should buy a purple shirt this week. And a short sleeve green, pink or red one. Also a t-shirt? I have a lot of clothes... just not the right ones.

Ashishishe stood at bat. He would show the Braves who was brave today. He was brave every day. He wore his name "crow", like an emblem, in honor of his namesake. Strike 3? Tomorrow, he smiled. And all the tomorrows left to him. Apsáalooke always rose up from defeat.

So not 'into' today.

19/05/66

It's 10:07 and I'm finishing up my rice and coffee. I should do my outdoor exercise before it gets hotter. It's 91 degrees. 100 is forecast.

I eat slow.

Twin: Alberth stood there ignoring me in Uvita. I thought... out of context... maybe he didn't recognize me? I said nothing. When I saw him back home I mentioned this. He said, Oh, that's my twin Ivan. Edited and posted.

*Checkb* PorP. "Doppelganger [180.36] M#11 40w "Elegy in sepia [180.37] ((8)) photo of tree and giraffe "Breakfast's at Eight [180.38] ((8)) 40w
*Xb* Thai. Very little.
*Xb* Pool. Pannya wasn't home. I won't go in alone.
*Checkb* Walk.
*Checkb* Foto. Took a couple. Edited a few. Posted 5 at FB
*Checkb* Exor. 100/100/100/250 at 11:15. I wore gloves because the handlebars burn.
*Checkb* tvBL. End of Boss and Babe? Happy ending but it faded towards the end.

Spill the beans into a bowl, then let them soak.
Wash the rice, remove the stones.
Chop cilantro, carrots, onions, peppers, add a yolk.
Cook when daybreak dawns. Don't eat alone.
Invite family, friends and folk. Puts flesh on bones. 40w Edited, posted.

00:28. Pannya said he was back one hour ago. I wait. And wait.

18/05/66

Today is Mark's birthday. I believe it's also my college graduation day. Pan and I have been together 6 months. Bought a rose. He had his durian ice cream at Swensens.

*Checko* PorP. ""Adagio in Armagh" ... Sound of Glass ((8)) [180.35] Skipping 40 words for a day.
Mess.
*Checko* Wash. Pannya did the wash. I helped a tad.
*Checko* Thai. Spoke with Pem (she teaches children age 2-7), reviewed Video.
*Xo* Pool.
*Checko* Walk.
*Checko* Foto. Lotus and orchids.
*Checko* Exor. Did about 50/50/100/250. Not sure. I did less because it was stifling hot and the handle bars seared my flesh. 38 degrees at 5 pm. Probably hit 39 today.
*Xo* tvBL. Didn't get home in time.

How to write about a cockroach:

1. Love it. whether you write about how you hate them or love them deep-fried, it's all about you.
2. Learn how to describe it. How it breathes, moves, breeds.
3. See the world through the eyes of a cockroach. What obstacles must it overcome.

Now do this about your neighbor down the street that you hate, that you compare to...

Write about what you know and love.

To Jennifer: "Lies... do so much harm. Truth may hurt but one knows where one stands. Lies? It's like quicksand. *Care*"

Got up late. Now 11:11. I'll need to tackle my list. It does remind me that I need to make new routines and that I can't sit inside all day.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joUEC257ZS0

17/05/66

For forty:
05/17/2023-'Mother' Mother/father. In the motherland, the fatherland, the hermaphrodictic snail doesn't care. It just waves it's eye-stalks, wear its home on its back. looks for another to share a moment, lays eggs, never raises its children.
05/18/2023-'Father'
05/19/2023-'twin' Gemini/ Albert/Ivan he didn't tell me he had an identical twin. the good twin the bad twin
05/20/2023-'brave' to brave the gloom, the wind, the cold they flee to a beach to brave the waves the wind and sand-fleas. Ah, Englishmen and dogs blister in the noon day sun.

The heat. The humidity. I breathe hard; but, my skin loves it. Any exertion is met with a huff and a puff. I walk slowly. I wear a hat. I use lotion and shower twice, thrice... Everything smells by the end of the day. For only one night, a white flower blooms fragrant, masking the ennui of a rotting listless life. It's tranquil alright. It's not the weather, as Northerners can attest, it's the clothes one wears. Here it's "cover up from the sun", and anything that bites. But it's more than wanting to peel off one's skin. I'm weary and worn out.

*Checkg* PorP. "In the Temple of Hermaphrodite [180.34] M#10 40w
*Checkg* Mess. some
*Checkg* Thai. some
*Xg* Pool.
*Checkg* Walk. Ran into Kelly from Australia.
*Checkg* Foto. three+ taken and 4 posted.
*Checkg* SS&S.
*Checkg* Exor. 200-100-50-200 cc. Dropped my key but found it.
*Checkg* tvBL. Skyy 2

Sound of Glass: Mary sags slowly like a Brahm's adagio yet tinkles like bells when struck. She's had ten too many children and now wants to crash through the ceiling before she's too worn out. She's 30. A bit of hemlock? A dash of arsenic? As the owner of her future, she'll rise to the top and give her offspring what their father can never stop. ((8))

To AL on FB: "Yes. I understand. I miss a lot from earlier stages of my life. Here I try to talk to the same people on a regular basis. They will never be my friends but it's comforting none-the-less. A swede in Norrjöping once told me that every Swede had 3 friends and didn't need another. I wish I had that many old friends. Traveling has opened the world, but cut me off from deeper relationships. Social media gives the illusion of connection; but, it's not the same as watching a parade with friends in Norway on the 17th of May and sharing an ice cream later".

16/05/66

*Checkp* PorP. "Bertha [180.33] M#9 40w
*Xp* Mess.
*XP* Thai
*XP* Pool. I won't go alone.
*Checkp* Walk. Went to the Wat west of Nong Prajak.
*Checkp* Foto. Took photos of Pan at the Wat and while he was getting a massage.
*Checkp* SS&S. Need to do daily.
*Checkp* Exor. 200-100-50-150 counterclockwise. 6 minutes.

Grateful Dead https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVF22wIKPKU
Bertha: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RaYfA7tfT1g

Bertha: She grated the carrots, julienned the jujubes, gently braised the parrots, threw it all in a pot. We were grateful when she was gone. We arranged a wake, setting in front of her portrait an offering of burnt toast with fermented fish and cheese.

Edited: "Bertha [180.33] M#9 40w

To Mighty: "We all have different personalities and the times may dictate who is best to lead.

I think of the old Cherokee paradigm. Beloved Woman decided whether the village was at peace or at war. Each of the 7 clans had peace chiefs and war chiefs. No one was best suited for everything.

Your style may not suit everyone or be the best in every situation.

So why not own that? Same with the 'problem' employee. In a family or village they would be contributing in their own way and valued for that. Drama has its uses, as does a more chaotic approach, not every aspect of life need be timed. That said, the chief may "help" them find a better position. What are this person's strengths? And can they be harnessed... elsewhere.

But, even royalty needs a jester. It keeps them humble. And you are royalty."

"You noted that I embedded the song I referred to. It helps those who are curious but unfamiliar with the song. It's also a courtesy and good form. Same with references to articles. Why make someone search for what is being referred to when a simple link will suffice.

It's common these days for the media (social media is worse) to make outrageous hyped headlines followed by a short article with no links or references to back up the premises. Journalism has suffered by by the click-bait monetization of information while facts are less important than ka-ching ka-ching. I shouldn't have to fact-check e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g

I travel. I'm not a tourist bureau. No one pays me to tell you about the garbage in the canals of Paris or the river that runs through Peja in Kosovo, or the stench of durian in Udon Thani or stinky tofu in Tainan, Taiwan, or how black-out curtains are a must in Norway. I write from personal experience for nothing, and it hurts to know that many writers are paid for their lies."

15/05/66

Beautiful or buttfull? Each scar, each mole, each imperfection reminds me that I once was young and self-conscious, thinking that I was ugly, unaware that age would rob me of what I once had. Post-acne and pre-wrinkle... I had my moments in the sun.

Swimming wouldn't be so bad if it didn't involve water. I shudder each time I go under. Like anesthetic... wondering whether I will ever surface.

*CheckY* PorP. "Moments in the sun [180.32] M#8 40w
*XBr* Thai
*CheckY* Pool. Made some progress addressing my fear. Took underwater video. Sent it to Pan.
*CheckY* Walk

Elections in Thailand were mostly uneventful. The military must accept the voice of the people clamoring for change... at least for now.
7309

Footnotes
1  In 1959, [Mae] West released her bestselling autobiography, Goodness Had Nothing To Do With It, recounting her life in show business.

May 8, 2023 at 12:27am
May 8, 2023 at 12:27am
#1049345
14.เดือนพฤษภาคม

Mighty: The Kong. The Moon. All rivers flow from high to low. Not all reach the sea. But here... where ricefields flood then overflow and mighty river banks cannot stem the flow... only redirect it... we watch the water take it all away, leaving us bereft and those downstream... drowning. 45+4w Edited in "Floodplains [180.30] M#7 40w

I posted on FB: "I remember special meals in my life: my father making milk-toast when my sister and I were sick; mother making fudge; my uncle and cousin cooking fat burgers on the grill. When I traveled to Hayfield, Mavis tried to kill me with a full English breakfast (bless her) and Cecilie Liv Moe braised whale in cream sauce when I visited her in Tromsø. I dare not forget never-ending Tim Tams in Wangi Wangi (thanks to Dirk and Linda Visman). What do these memories hold in common? They were shared with love and kindness. Kindness isn't fancy nor does it draw attention to itself. Love is freely given in the large or small doses of daily life. It's what has kept me alive."

My mother (1922-2022) would have been 101 last week. My father (1916-1999) lived as long as he did because of my mother. I'm in my last stage of life (for an unknown passage of time). Pannya is cooking rice and went to Seven-Eleven and brought me back snacks. I may live longer and healthier (even if only for a short time) due to his care.

It's 10:12. I'm foggy. I got up very early to watch the results of Eurovision. No surprise that the juries loved Loreen and gave her an insurmountable lead. The audience in the hall and the voters at home were enthusiastic for Käärijä and voted him first by a wide margin. In some ways there were two winners: Sweden and Finland. Israel, Italy and Norway rounded out the top 5.

*Checkr* Thai
*Xr* Pool Pan had gone before I got back and I won't go in water alone.
*Checkr* Walk Bought sandwiches from Vigo.
*Checkr* PorP "Floodplains [180.30] M#7 40w
*Checkr* Sh&L "Letting go

Thai:
ไป go
อยู่ stay
มา come
กลับมา come back

อยากไปศรีสะเกษ . พักสามคืน . เที่ยวศรีสะเกษ 1 วัน . เที่ยวขุนหาญ 1 วัน. (Xyāk pị ṣ̄rīs̄akes̄ʹ.phạk s̄ām khụ̄n.theī̀yw ṣ̄rīs̄akes̄ʹ 1 wạn.theī̀yw k̄hunh̄āỵ 1 wạn.)

อยากไปเที่ยวชัยภูมิ มหาสารคาม ร้อยเอ็ด มุกดาหาร พิมาย (Xyāk pị theī̀yw chạyp̣hūmi mh̄ās̄ārkhām r̂xyxĕd mukdāh̄ār phimāy)

ฉันอยากไปเที่ยวกับคุณและถ่ายรูปคุณ (c̄hạn xyāk pị theī̀yw kạb khuṇ læa t̄h̀āyrūp khuṇ)

อยากเที่ยวทุกอาทิตย์! (xyāk theī̀yw thuk xāthity̒!)

ฉันต้องการวิดีโอที่คุณร้องเพลง (C̄hạn t̂xngkār widīxo thī̀ khuṇ r̂xngphelng)

must/want: ฉันต้องการไป ฉันต้องเดิน ฉันต้องไป

Thai elections went on without a hitch. The two main opposition parties are mopping up as expected. Udon Thani definitely supports the opposition, especially Preut Thai.

13.เดือนพฤษภาคม

A bit damp and a bit dull and only 78 degrees this morning. Easterlies will bring rain and maybe maybe a high of 82.

*Checkv* Walk. Checked on visa. La Malila is open. Bought toilet paper.
*Xv* Pool. Pannya came home late. I don't go into water by myself.
*Xv* Thai. Not enough to count.
*Checkv* tvBL. Watched half of Moonlight Chicken.
*Checkv* Euro. Followed and watched what I could.
*Checkv* Cook. Pannya usually cooks, but what I prepared (chopped up vegs and pork, fish, shrimp in rice with egg) turned out well.
*Checkv* Visa. Went to office got info about Non O visa, bank, types of visa.

Apparently I can keep doing what I'm doing. 2 months, leave, 2 months, leave, 2 months, leave... For now that would be renew June 1 until June 30, leave for 2 days or two weeks, come back after July 13, renew August 11 leave Sept 9. Something like that. Renewal is 1.900 baht. Malaysia: Thai free; Cambodia: $30+fee beforehand or on arrival. Thai is free for 14 days; Viet Nam: US on airplane arrival $25? Thai is visa-free for 30 days; Myanmar: $50 ETA? for 28 days; Thai is visa-free <14 days; Singapore: no visa fee? Thai is visa-free; Brunei: US visa-free <90d; Thai is visa-free.

Tonight is Eurovision. Two favorites: Finland (call-in votes), Sweden (jury), and maybe France as a sleeper (old fashioned). Slovenia is nice but doesn't have the energy. Australia has the energy but doubt that it will be enough. The audience Tuesday night was more than enthusiastic for Finland's "Cha Cha Cha". My insane (because I really don't understand millenial/gen-z Europeans: 1. Finland 2. Sweden 3. Spain (just enough to please televoters and jury).

I didn't sleep well. Bed fairly early. Pannya joined me at 01:30.

I looked at my under-water photos last night, edited a few, and sent them to Pannya. He was very happy. Posted one at FB.

Sneezing... may not be 100% well. Pannya snoozes.

O Easy on the Eyes. You snooze. I sneeze. And the world whirls with or without us. In pictures you'll always be a teenage geek... or a handsome young man. You'll wrinkle long after I'm gone. Not because I want to move on; but, Death doesn't wait. It embraces. 48w

12.เดือนพฤษภาคม

Walk *Checkb*
Pool *Checkb* Plus underwater photos
Visa progress... got info.
Thai *X* very little... too late, too tired
7-11 *Checkb* Lotus
Boss *Checkb*

The Baily's beads effect or diamond ring effect is a feature of total and annular solar eclipses. As the Moon covers the Sun during a solar eclipse, the rugged topography of the lunar limb allows beads of sunlight to shine through in some places while not in others.

Read the beads along the edge of the moon. 10
Decipher their message. Heed what they know,10
and what you will know — soon enough. 8

Life hangs tough and each bead of hope brightens 10
the day. Shine on. Shine on. Do not dismay. 10
The future speaks along the edge 8

where sun peeks through. Leave bad habits behind; 10
seek the Light that will guide your way. 8

Edited: in "Script of the Eclipse [180.28]

Swimming... a bit of progress. I really don't like water so I need to overcome my fears. I will say that the water was quite warm and that helps. Plus Pannya was there in case I had problems. I took some underwater photos that turned out okay. Pan was pleased.

Pan cooked seafood and earlier sea bass. Very tasty but I'll gain weight if I eat like he does.

Yesterday: 80.9 kg. = 169.80+016.98 = 176.78 = 177 lb. I would like to lose weight slowly to 170 lb. At least I still weigh less than 13 stone.

Nice rain this evening. We needed it.

11.เดือนพฤษภาคม

Watched Malaysia beat Thailand 2-1 in one round of Sepak Takraw (SEA Games in Cambodia). I've seen it played in a park in Udon Thani. Bicycle kicks are its main feature.

It sprinkled while we swam last evening and I believe it rained overnight. Thought I heard thunder. It may rain today and all day tomorrow.

Not as hot. 88/76 forecast.

Today's objectives:

Walk *Checko*
Pool *X*
Wash *CheckO*
Thai *Check*
Rose *X*

Monkeys: Not a luau. Not hot pot.

I would find out what his favorite dish is. And who he wants to invite... and how many. Then I would ban bananas.

I loved giving 'parties' every other Wednesday night... years ago. I would send out invitations. Average of 10-12 friends and friends of friends.

I hosted a barbecue for 15 years every August. Mostly around 30 friends, neighbors, co-workers came. Never family. Two years there were around 80 guests. One year... 150.

But... a party for me? No, I don't like parties for myself.

This year a friend made a cake for his birthday. We ate it the next day at a mutual friend's place... on my birthday. Just the 3 of us. No gifts. No fuss. Just pleasant company. I would want to do the same for you-know-who.

Monkeys would only be allowed if he wanted them there.
Edited in "Not a luau [13+] P#4

05/11/2023-"The Night" Tropical, Arctic? He relishes moonlight, slinks through the shadows of daybreak, sleeps at high noon. He doesn't like exposure to the sun or the harsh reality of poverty. Black is the color of my true love's hair. I wish it truly were him.
05/12/2023- 'afresh' Like durian or here we go again? anew again abounding adumbrate aright afterwards apace
05/13/2023-'lovely' or handsome?
05/14/2023-'mighty' like the Menam Kong or Menam Mun?

Chevro-legs or Lambugh-feetie

10.เดือนพฤษภาคม

Green. I want more green. Anything that's been watered is green. The orange-flowered trees are ablaze. Everything else is the dun color of dust.

"Moon over Lithuania [180.24]
"Rain washes away my brain [180.25]

Ate a mushroom-cheese burger at Koala. 109 baht.

Bought spoons, forks, a basket, a plastic container, floral spray. Also roti and strawberry ice cream.

I wore my long-sleeve green shirt. 97 degrees. Wore hat and carried umbrella.

Walk *Checkg*
Pool *Checkg*

I lived in the garden in Spring and Autumn. Summer and Winter I sought refuge in the closet. I...have been through many seasons.

House #1 I stayed out of the cellar. I lived there for less than 2 years.
House #2 I never did get into my attic. I lived there for 13 years. I rarely went into the basement.
House #3 I slept in a closet with a window facing the dawn. 3 years was a life sentence.

Since my nightmares revolve around mistakes, I may never own a house again.

Poland: She'll squeeze the s*** out of you if you let her. Bring her chocolate, flowers, wine. She'll smile and squeeze you harder. She has been fought over many times, her fields plundered. But she survived. She don't take s*** from nobody. 41w

9.เดือนพฤษภาคม

I'm home. Finally. Took a week. Long flights, 2 days to decompress and then waiting to reconnect so we could go home together. Home is Udon Thani, Thailand and a shared bed.

My phone is on ICT. My chromebook is on MDT. It's 22:36 in NYC/EDT. 20:36 in Montana/MDT. But it's a cloudy 09:36 in Udon Thani (May 9th). We are expecting rain for a week. *Rain*

I'm going to try to write 40 words/day. Midnight = 11:00 here. I also want to catch up at WdC.

Am I getting stronger as I age? Bones become brittle, muscles soften, brain atrophies; but, I do notice how everything around me has become stronger. If the stench of my rotting flesh could fend off the future... I'd live forever.

"Like bleu cheese [180.22] M#1 40w

I dragged myself out of bed at 3 a.m. to scratch something on a notepad. Glad I did. The thoughts had fled by morning. But... backing up... it was a long 9 hour bus ride (5 p.m.-2 a.m.) and we had been gone for one month. Turn on the a/c, take a shower, yada yada yada.

To Judith: "Ah... the humor... I do dark better than humor *Laugh*.

I loved dark sweet red wine. It loved me. We divorced almost 50 years ago.

I do love cubby-holes. I'd prefer a room that has a window, books on the wall, a cozy high-backed chair... fantasy. Oh... and a cup of coffee. My daily exercise would be to make more coffee unless there's a garden to work in and wander through. *PoseyO*
"

Pannya made me supper (rice, omelette, fish) and then left because he wanted seafood hot pot for 300 baht, leaving me home. I should be grateful. I'm not happy.

Deep. As in bottomless. As in never ending nightmares. As in looking into your eyes and drowning. Deeper. Deeper still. Until gasping I surface devoid of all fear. Then waking, shaking, making the bed I lie in, imagining it's full of air.
42w

8.เดือนพฤษภาคม

Catching up whilst Pannya sleeps.

I tried durian today. I see why people like it. It has the texture of custard, sweet but not too sweet, easy to eat. Yes, it stinks. Pannya loves it.

We take a bus to Udon Thani today.

My nerves are fine.

And then they weren't... next time I must sweetly point out to Pannya that trips matter and that one can check times and plan beforehand. Traveling on a dark and rainy night is not optimal.

I'm thinking Malaysia or Viet Nam this month or next. If so... I'll do the planning and then try to remember that Pan prefers to just fly-by-his-pants. This "no worries" attitude challenges for me.


Am I getting stronger as I age? Or do bones become brittle, muscles soften, brain atrophies. I do notice how everything around me has become stronger. If the stench of my rotting flesh could fend off the future... I'd live forever.
41w. Now edited.

May 1, 2023 at 1:03am
May 1, 2023 at 1:03am
#1049065
7.mai/พ.ค เดือนพฤษภาคม

Slept okay. Saw Ped before she left. Know how to get to Icon Siam. It will work out.

Free boat from Saphan Taksin to Icon Siam. Met up with Pannya and his mother, went to AIM Hotel (which was okay).

Cruise: music, food, a table for 3. Buffet, music too loud for my taste. I went because I was invited and wanted to meet Nupin. However, a costly cruise is not my idea of a good time. It wasn't bad. It's just not "me".

6.mai/พ.ค เดือนพฤษภาคม

Brian from Malaysia took Jessica, Alberto and me out to lunch. Very nice gesture.

I wore orange with a green umbrella today. 🧡 🤍 💚

Image of Jessica and me. Image of Alberto and Jessica singing. Jessica dancing to Abba.

From Bobbie George Ward:

Hold me now -
(as I shall hold)
let rivers chase my name -
that I might seed compassion
on the sea.
Tell them all I went the way
of locust come July -
the way of laurel
stilled by winter frost.
A softer sigh -
as silence waits
to heal the waning moon.
Love shall find
acceptance here -
beyond the threat of loss.


5.mai/พ.ค เดือนพฤษภาคม

"Just a beast on a leash" i.e. those who follow rules out of fear. Describes many Christians as well as dogmatic followers of other faiths.

Above quote found on FB is worthy of a poem or prose piece.

I got to sleep around 11 pm. Up at 7 am. Feeling weak but Coffee is My Companion, giving me strength.

Staying another night at Pinto. 6th and 7th are still not etched in stone. 7th is likely a river cruise. 8th is journey back home to Udon Thani.

No plans for today. I will take out money. I will renew my phone.

Yes, I want to see Pannya, but he said tomorrow. *Sad*

Gay called me from Udon. *Smile*

Nice chat with Jessica from Seychelles/Germany. She likes vampires. *Vamp*

4.mai/พ.ค เดือนพฤษภาคม

Safe in Pinto Hostel. Apple was there. Adrian remembered me. Alvin and Harry from Hong Kong.

Good chat with Kenny from RSA in hostel. He's married to a Lao in Pakse.

Brian from Malaysia works in China.

Ate pork satay with nam jim and ajad หมูสะเต๊ะ น้ำจิ้ม อาจาด; Max was very kind to join me.

3.mai

In transit. No major problems with flights. SEA-ICN Fed us twice, plus a snack. Steak was regrettable. Watched movie.

ICN-SEA. Turbulence. Arrived a bit late, forcing me to take taxi for 400 baht instead of Skytrain for 45.

2.mai *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

Found my key and key card. Hope to get 3 hours rest. Up by 4-ish. Alarm set. Out by 05:30. Airport by 06:00.

My flights are at 07:00 and 14:00 so I may or may not blog.

1.mai *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

It will be a crazy day. My anxiety has gone down but not disappeared.

Showered instead of bath, but...

A bit shaky. This is normal. Most everything seems to be done. Packing is the biggy. I'm hoping to get to bed early but sometimes I don't sleep at all. *Worry* The layover in Seattle is a brutal six hours. I'd rather be on the plane.

Updated CHECK LIST:

1. Prepack. Working on... progress. PACK *Checko*

7. clean and/or unclutter (last time didn't go as planned). Some progress.
8. make decision regarding plants. Moved some to hallway. Some progress.

10. clean out BOTH fridges. *X*
11. boxes. Moved a few; left for Julian
12. Call Asiana! Called. *Checko* Apparently I have a reserved seat. *Smile*

13. Bath. *CheckB*
14. Prepare food for layover in Seattle. Hard boiled eggs. *Checko*
15. 14:20 (or is it 15:20?) check in for Asiana flights. Possibly change seats. Seat 20C is better. *CheckO*
16. Check in for Alaska flight. *Checko*
17. Put clothes away. Mostly done. *CheckO*
18. Lunch. Use up rest of food at home.

April 24, 2023 at 1:02pm
April 24, 2023 at 1:02pm
#1048704
There is no rhyme nor reason.

Brianna's clock spit out one clang — then died.

It was apparently time.

But for what?

Her twin Bryan didn't answer. He couldn't. Corpses can be so stubbornly mute!

Not that she ever really wanted to listen. She remembered sewing his lips shut at age 6.

That day was fluffy bunny clouds and drooping daffodils and Bryan kept going on and on and on. As if. As if she cared. The clouds reminded her of cotton candy ice cream. She wanted some. They went together to the corner. When Bryan needed to use the toilet, she sprinkled some white numbing powder on his double scoop Manila-vanilla cone.

She smiled as she said, "Here's your Godzilla".

She was bigger than him; so, once pinned, all she had to do was embroider like Gamma had taught her. She chose pink thread to teach him a lesson. He hated pink.

The dripping tinge of red just added to the his horror — and her glee! She was tickled shades of peach and scarlet.

They threatened to send her away. She laughed, hoping that they would. They never understood. Gamma did.

...

But Bryan, you have no twin! We checked the records.

Brianna grinned but kept her mouth shut. Bryan would've been proud.

[180.20]


30.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

Up reasonably early. Baked a chocolate cake and took a shower. I took a bath last night but that's mostly for my feet.

Walls are closing in.

Scott will leave today for his post in Wyoming. 7 hour drive.

On fb: "This makes sense and provides me with a way to explain to many Christians that my problem with Christianity isn't Christ, it's how His Truth is mangled and misused. Sophiological versus soteriological... got it."

29.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

Nothing. Not writing. Still stressed about trip. Did get lots of sleep last night.

Lists... must make lists.

Updated CHECK LIST:

1. Prepack. Working on... progress.
2. Wash clothes on Sunday. Making a pile and checking it twice. *Checko* Saw Drew.
3. Make check off list (it changes every time). *Checko*

7. clean and/or unclutter (last time didn't go as planned). Some progress.
8. make decision regarding plants. Moved one to hallway. Some progress.

10. clean out fridge.
11. boxes.
12. Call Asiana! Called. *Checko* Apparently I have a reserved seat. *Smile*

13. Bath. *CheckB*

28.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

Look... I got up and showered ... what more d'ya want?

A photo?

I sent one to Pannya (pg rated). He said that I need to shave. I replied that he could shave me when I come back.

On fb: "I think we have become tribal, but [only] two choices is based on black/white thinking. Very dangerous. I don't belong to either... absolutely refuse to be labeled as such. I have values and vision and vote as such."

Bank: transferred money. Made sure that they know I'm leaving *LeafG*.

Post office: paid for p.o. box due in July.

Milkshake: cardamom-orange.

Lunch: bbq ribs. Spoke with Scott Brown (doctor/musician). His dad is 90.

27.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

Cannot stay awake = nap = nothing gets done.

List: See Dylan around noon. Did video. *Checko* Eat at Center. Cobb salad. *Checko* See Angie around 3. Connected on facebook. *Checko* Try to reserve seat ICN-BKK. *XBr*

Not too peppy. After Anxiety... worn out.

To Mighty: "I'm taking a risk by going back to Thailand. 4 months? No long term visa? A relationship that's complicated? Culture and language barriers... not to mention looking into the mirror...

If I wouldn't have taken so many risks along the way I wouldn't be in this situation. And I say that because I'm not a natural risk-taker.

But... here I am. I could look at photos taken from my international travels since 2009. I haven't picked up and read my over 5,000 page handwritten journal. I don't delve into my thousands of blog entries here over the last 18 years.

When I do, will I be as shocked as you?"

26.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

Seats chosen on 5 of 6 flights... still missing a key one. 4 hours over 2 days trying to sort this out.

I've been excused from jury duty.

Bry helped me connect to internet. I intended to leave message for my sister, but she wanted to talk. Niece getting married May 12th? Cousin little Betty died end of March. *Sad*

Meatloaf. Posted photo on fb.

Spoke to Pannya.

Anxiety decreasing.

25.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

Decent day until I wasn't able to reserve all my seats. 1 key flight is missing. *Worry*

Pannya and others notified.

CHECK LIST:

1. Prepack
2. Wash clothes on Sunday.
3. Make check off list (it changes every time).

4. Inform friends, family and neighbors: BH, Diane, Jay, Birgit, Bry, Kathi, Scott, Billie Jo, Dylan, Michael...
5. Inform landlord and pay rent a.s.a.p. *CheckO* until October.
6. decide on p.o. box. Paid $88 for 6 months. *Checko*

7. clean and/or unclutter (last time didn't go as planned).
8. make decision regarding plants. Moved one to hallway.

9. Reserve hostel. *Checko*

24.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose**Rose*

7°C and raining. It will be a cold damp day... even after the rains end. This is March weather.

May rain in Thailand. Hopefully enough to cleanse the air of hazardous levels of smoke.

My anxiety is still sky-high. I have received some advice and more importantly support.

However... it negatively impacts my ability to write. I can't focus.

Flight reservations made.

7208
April 17, 2023 at 9:46pm
April 17, 2023 at 9:46pm
#1048351
23.abril *Rose**Rose**Rose*

08:46 ... I already charcoaled a hotdog. Time for coffee or falling back to sleep. It's 0°C.

24°C at home in Udon Thani; 9°C here in Missoula. I ate mashed potatoes ... but still not doing well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zDt8xyVKtw

I Think It's Going to Rain Today

         Song by Randy Newman

Broken windows and empty hallways
A pale dead moon in the sky streaked with gray
Human kindness is overflowing
And I think it's going to rain today

Scarecrows dressed in the latest styles
With frozen smiles to chase love away
Human kindness is overflowing
And I think it's going to rain today

Lonely, lonely
Tin can at my feet
Think I'll kick it down the street
That's the way to treat a friend

Bright before me the signs implore me
To help the needy and show them the way
Human kindness is overflowing
And I think it's going to rain today


For some odd reason I thought of Aunt Verna... gone many years.

On-line: Another Reddit poster chimed in, “First, they will drive out the trans families and gay-accepting families.
Next, they will drive out liberals and democrats.
Next, they will drive out any minorities who are able to move away.
Finally, when everything is just white, they’ll drown due to the climate change they don’t believe in.”


I'm burnt out, one smashed lightbulb.

HH: The addicts still shoot up under the Anker Brua.

W: Do we ever really change?

HH: No. Any better for you?

W: No. Unlike Ove, they always mind their own business. Nothing shakes a hard headed Swede or makes them pay attention.

HH: We are the oddballs, aren't we.

W: Just like the addicts... and the occasional dead body. [180.19]


22.abril *Rose* *Rose*

I'm okay as long as I don't face reality. My anxiety is very high. I can get out of bed and shower, drink coffee, even eat. I'm at Butterfly Herbs stressing. I'm not doing well.

To Mighty: "I have a Le Novo chromebook. I do have a computer with a much larger screen, but I don't use it. The chromebook is light and travels well.

I'm old so I don't feel a need to 'work' but my boyfriend is 'young' and may need my help to network properly and expand his on-line content. I'm not a professional photographer but some of my photos are more than passable.

We could visit local sites, and take photos. He could write from the fashion/beauty-products perspective in Thai and I could write from the traveler perspective in English.

I'm fine with my income and doing-with-less, but he needs to build a future. Freelance is one way."

My nerves are still shot. At BH: Chatted with Lundi and Cathy Mae. Had fire&ice, coffee and an Asiago bagel with cream cheese. Bit of a melt-down.

Travis gave me hot dog buns. I ate two hot dogs for supper.

21.abril *Rose*

Ridvan. *Flowery*

Daffodils braved the snow.

Yep. Snow... quite a bit actually.

Saw Jamie. Sat with Dalton and Bob. Kathy P. won pinochle.

Nerves not good.

Looked at flight options. Nothing cheap.

Chicken strips for lunch. Scored hot dogs, rice, noodles, potatoes.

20.abril

Up before 9. Still in bed, need coffee ... and a life.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/video/lifestyle/why-airplane-seats-are-so-uncomfortabl...

I really want 30" minimum on any flight over 4 hours, 32" on flights over 6. I've had dvt 3 times. I use Google Flights and Seat Guru. Ergonomics are important to me. Asian airlines like Asiana and ANA do much better than Euro-American airlines.

Black roses: I was born in the wrong century, wrong city, wrong soi (ซอย). I can love you, but can never be your lover. Not in this lifetime. May I strew your path with roses, their fragrance reminding you of my love, their thorns a memory of my pain. May we someday be reborn in a garden where our roots may touch and our branches hug each other. 62w Heliotrope healing a Bleeding Heart. [180.18]

"I walk down Memory Lane because I love running into you."

Nerves still shattered.

Sat with Angie and Billie Jo.

19.april

Snow. Cold and bitter.

Meatloaf. Saw Merry, Ron and others.

Cake (white/confetti) with Scott and Travis.

A day for me to chill.

18.april

BCoF: Scott baked a cake for his birthday, dry as Wyoming, flavored with pistachios. He'd always been a bit of a nut. A bit... different, at ease in the emptiness, looking after mountains and those humans who got lost in them. Like him, I'm lost in private thoughts I never shared. He sliced the cake, gave me a piece of paradise, an echo of long-lost Persia, dry yet flavorful. My day followed his. [180.17]

I didn't have to bake a cake. His was enough for both of us (for Scott on his birthday).


Video with Pannya. He looks good. I look haggard. I let myself go. Hello to his mother.

Scott's birthday. Said hello.

Taco salad... had eaten turkey-cheese-bowties for breakfast... so I brought half of it home for later.

Scored 4 cans of canned chicken.

Spoke with Joyce, Kathi, Dalton, others... Chat with Birgit. I ramble too much. I'm 'doing better'?

Scored a Reese's peanut butter cup. It's an addiction.

Snowed.

39°F at 6:20 pm. It was wintry cold all day.

17.april

Saw Kathi, Willie, Phil... at Sr.Ctr. Did not eat though.

Bought rosemary focaccia at Le Petit. $6. Most everything is double what I paid 15 years ago except my income and rent.

I'm okay but still anxious and unhappy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45KYqWpZKso

Thai elections are May 14th.

April 10, 2023 at 10:39am
April 10, 2023 at 10:39am
#1047950
16.april.23

68°F... Ready to do wash today. Didn't know it was so warm. Open up window?

Found my red shorts. I really missed them in Udon.

I'm chilling = getting nothing done.

Wash is done. Window open. Rain moving in?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viBz0ZwHPN0&t=150s

15.april.23

Butterfly Herbs: Nice chat with Joseph. Met up with Liz, Lily. Raven joined us for a moment. Chocolate-lavender milkshake. Now pasta salad.

No lottery winnings in my post office box.

Up early. Sunny now at 1-ish. 11°C in Missoula. Might get down to 26°C this morning in Udon Thani. *Fire*

Still stressed but getting better.

To Tinker: "I used to read at all hours and setting a book down was a last resort imho.

These days I'm giving away books. Only 5 yesterday. Over 100 to go. I can't take them with me to Thailand or beyond. They need to find new homes."

14.april.23

Very tired early yesterday. Lay down for a nap and then forced myself to sleep through the night.

Up 9-ish. Dark gloomy day. 35 degrees. May warm up to 50.

105 forecast in Udon Thani.

Pannya still not home. *Worry*

Sat with Jean, Merry, Dalton. Chatted with Dirk.

My anxiety is still high.

13.april.23

Still overwhelmed. Up by 06:ish.

Texted Pannya... he seems a bit better. Sent him a photo of when I was 22.

Saw Kathi, Willie, Monte and David.

Lee and Ben helped me at the bank. I now have an orange atm card.

I can get checks made for my bank here. $2/4. I do use checks... not often.

"It's very hard to ask for help, especially when I don't know what to say.

I want some peace and connection. I want some control over my own life; but, we-all live in assorted communities.

Living in Thailand won't solve my problems; but, it's more peaceful in general; and, personally I feel less threatened in a tolerant culture.

I've fought all my life to keep from drowning in depression and despair. I no longer wish to reside in the Confederate State of Oppression.
"

I took a nap but woke up in time to chat with Angie. More concerns about Billie Jo.

12.april.23

Totally overwhelmed when I think of Thailand. I need some room to breathe.

Tik-tok: Unity with s*** stains... Growth is divisive? Hmm.

I continue to meet lots of people I know.

Chromebook issues; Michael helped. Meatloaf at Sr. Ctr. I didn't get much done.

11.april.23

05:22 I can't fall back to sleep so I may as well get up.

I need to find a flight to Thailand. I hope to come back before May or in early May. I need to talk to my banks. I need to talk to my landlord and pay rent.

8: Howl caught a cold. Grunts and coughs, barely a whisper. What can a wind do if it doesn't blow? Caress a child's cheek, lift and warm the spirits, redirect Spring's clouds. But the howl caught a cold. And now it could barely whisper.

Chat with Pan... I'm a bit upset and worried; but, I have to focus on my own situation. I can't afford to be overwhelmed, shaking due to anxiety, or unable to move due to depression.

My ability to contribute here may be limited.

Met with Merry, Kirk, Birgit and Travis. Saw other folks. Took afternoon nap.

นิยายวาย = ni-yai-wai = BL series

10.april.23

Talked to Bry. Texted Pan. Up too early... around 6. I'm a time-zone zombie.

Commented in "Andre The Blog Monkey's Blog Prompt #3

"I've met good cops; but, imho, when many seem to be hired to be thugs. So, I'll blame the city's and town's hiring practices.

Because of corruption I've been warned to never speak to cops in Thailand.

Also, police reflect the mores of whichever community is in power. Usually that isn't women nor people-of-color."

Listened to Buttigieg speak. Did we reach the extent of our inclusiveness? Are we regressing? Unfortunately I agree.

Weekly objectives:
1. Wash clothes this Sunday. *Checko*
2. Repack for going back. [came across a couple items I neglected last time, but see above]
3. Talk to my banks. *Checko*
4. Get rid of books. [only 5 taken to Sr.Ctr.]
5. Clean. A. old refrigerator. B. table. C. vacuum/sweep/mop. [nope]

Finances:
A. I have enough baht to get to hostel, pay for two nights and a trip back to Udon.
B. I have enough to pay rent until the end of 2023.
C. I have enough to deposit in a bank in Thailand for a visa.

*BurstB* At the Water’s Edge by Sara Gruen
*BurstO* I Dream of Yellow Kites by Retta Bono

Of kites and flames

At the water's edge
I dream of yellow kites,
and that green umbrella,
keeping me from getting burnt.

I'll burn regardless,
consumed by your flames,
hotter than the sun,
turning water into steam.

[180.15]

Edited in "Of yellow kites and your green umbrella [180.15]

Mushroom chai with Jay.

The mystery of the missing items may need some diplomacy... or letting go.

7189

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