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 Left-overs piled on hot rice and mixed. |
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bibimbap พีบิมบับ (pheebimbap) At home in Thailand we do something similar. At home, we make rice and top it with whatever we didn't finish from the last meal. I finally decided to use June 2022's entries for my responses to other bloggers' entries. I tend to do this daily anyways and post in my weekly 'catch-all' blog (added to every day} "Porthole"  .
Each entry to be brought to the notice of WW is 18࿚A WDC adult! and StephBee when they are running the Bard Blog Contest. For bitem:981150 sponsored by huser:webwitch and huser:sgcardin |
| Another hot noon but sprinkles and a stiff breeze brought the temp down to 87. Nights are now forecast to dip to 70. That would be a great relief. The heat is draining. I usually take a shower before I go out and after I exercise. I use Protex soap, a skin moistener, deodorant, rarely shampoo. I also use bar soap for stains on clothes. Washing machines don't do well with stains. I see very few bathtubs in my travels. They're a luxury. My routines... are different here and in Montana. If I move, a distinct possibility, they will need to be adjusted. A much-cheaper (but larger) place won't have a pool or an exercise room or maybe not exercise stations close-by. I use the exercise station daily. I can deal with routines and boredom within limits. I'm not an adrenaline junkie but I do like some variety in what I eat and do. I love exploring back roads and alleys. Just treat me with respect and don't call me late for dinner; although, I don't have much appetite these days. Most of you would call me Khun Liam here in Thailand. To tj wanderlust-words-in-motion in "Invalid Entry" : I grew up with a bar of Ivory. Great for taking baths as it floats. We all knew it was 99 44/100 percent pure because... we all watched the same shows with the same ads. I didn't take showers until I went to college. In Montana I use Dove as my skin is sensitive and I'm careful with laundry soap. Here I buy cheap bar soap and Pan buys shampoo and conditioner (and does the laundry). I use whatever's available. I do like certain fragrances more than others. Love rose in general but cucumber is nice. A hot bath with patchouli though... takes me back in time.  To Brian K Compton in "Invalid Entry" : I love the cadence.I really like the use of words and images in: Thoughts entertain a soul not ready for bed in this quiet undead void of endless night meandering I often have problems sleeping (too much coffee?} At the start I'm reminded of the oily ring around the bathtub that needed to be scrubbed. No bathtub here, but I have scrubbed the floor and wall tiles (with bleach) *ack*. Eric Wharton in "Do It Again" Movement is life. I exercise every day because it strengthens my legs and slims me down a tad. It's also a good habit. Coffee is another habit, albeit not as good.  Routines help me. But I also vary what I do with travel and by having a goal list of many items. Doing ten, any ten, suffices. I watch Thai TV every evening at 8:30. I remind Pannya to take his meds every night at 9. I eat a lot of rice (I like it). But, I also vary my diet, my walks, my chats. I'm easily bored and this helps. I was shy as a child. My problem these days is that I talk too much. To John in "Note: If I am using milady in a sentence referring to ..." "In your appendix you might want to include nicknames and the way characters refer to each other. "Harry Potter" has characters with multiple names depending on who is speaking. Others have commented on proper form; but, I'm amused by the improper as well (tone of voice, hesitation, volume, choice of title). My name, Kåre is Norwegian/Swedish and pronounced like Cory in English. Never ask a Dane to mispronounce it. People here confuse it with Kare or Karen and think I'm a woman.  It would be funny to address me as milady. That said... a drag queen might find it appropriate. In Thailand, names, titles, pronouns, who speaks first... are all part of the culture and language." 612 words 370 |
 It was a day when nothing turned out as well as planned. The German Bakery was closed and the Chinese Festival starts the next day. The trip back and forth was fine and this time I didn't get lost looking for the bus station. I did take some pictures and sent one to Eugene. I looked for her in her usual spot even though I knew she wouldn't be there. She arrives November 30th. It was a very hot day. Vientiane across the river set a November record. I find the heat exhausting even though I've acclimated. I'm glad I went because Pannya was in Khon Kaen and then decided to go visit his mother... We kept in touch but I fear he may be having a manic attack and what follows isn't easy to deal with.  To summarize what I commented on... The weather here is crappy. Winter is arriving late and that has affected tourism. Thailand lives on tourism. The north is hot; the central and south are rainy, windy with floods. People cope by avoiding the heat of day but that's hard for tourists and travelers. I 'live' here but I was playing 'tourist'. In Udon Thani we have many places for massages. I avoid the massage plus ___ parlors with 'young' women; the ones with glass partitions you can look in are much safer and the old men and ladies are professional. They are also air-conditioned as is the Central Mall. I did get to chat in Nong Khai but it wasn't as relaxed as sharing tea or coffee with Eugene. I can visit P'Nan at Surada Guesthouse Tuesday-Saturday and have met interesting foreign visitors there. For conversational Thai I watch sub-titled TV series. I can play them back. Many of the young actors are great at conversing naturally with body and facial language. Interjections are common in speech and it's a pleasure to see them used. Also swear words. Knowing that they exist is important; knowing that you CANNOT use them is very very very important.  We are mostly pacifists in my immediate family. Even those in the military aren't overly macho Rambo types (maybe a little). My father rarely talked about his experience.I grew up during the Viet Nam War. Coming from a factory town with my draft number #49 I was slated to be cannon fodder. Women were exempt; something I resented at that time... and still. Middle-aged Mothers (and m*therf**kers) spewing hatred on-line encouraging others to kill is common on social media. The "smash their babies against the rocks" (Psalm 137:9) is playing out regarding Israel-Gaza. To describe my mother in a nutshell... think Hyacinth on "Keeping Up Appearances". At least she didn't want me to be sacrificed on foreign soils. Being sacrificed at home though... she mostly ignored my situation (stiff upper lip, secrets, and all).  I was the shy one hiding behind others. Invisibility was my super-power until I opened my mouth. I was proud of what I knew (looking back... too proud). MG and YA are great for writing and reading. MG is better when learning a foreign language. Anything with conversational speech helps more than academic essays or dictionary descriptions. I know less than a 5 year old here. And yes, that bothers me.  Fire is a touchy subject for me as someone burned down my house 20 years ago and I had a friend Sandy in Oklahoma who lost everything including family members in a fire. To WakeUpAndLive in "NaNoWriMo conversations" : Europe has had some nasty rainy windy weather recently. Thailand has had thunderstorms and flooding but not here; it's hot and dry in Udon Thani. 33 degrees today... very warm. A/C is on; it's still warm after midnight. I'd love to sit at a kitchen table with coffee to have a chat. I truly miss doing that. We have message places everywhere here. Very popular. Conversations... sit in a cafe and eavesdrop. Worked for Ben Affleck and Matt Damon when they wrote "Good Will Hunting". To AnotherDreamer in "Invalid Entry" : 1. My father served in the Army in North Africa in WW2. We watched war movies and westerns but toy guns were not allowed in our house and there was no way that I would've joined the military. I'm opposed to war as a solution to petty grievances. I do however understand fury over injustices. I do not celebrate 11/11. America has lots of veterans because America loves violence and war. 2. I went to university in Kansas and lived in small-town Kansas and Nebraska. Years later I moved to the backwoods of Northern Cherokee County Oklahoma. I liked the people. I was raised with 'proper' English. These days? I just don't care. How people talk is not my concern." To stevengepp in "20231112 NaNo XIV" I definitely think of YA as younger, 12-18 (max). I like YA in the US because it's more accessible and the writers seem to be of a higher quality. Some kids always want to do something stupid; others are just too afraid (like I was). Burning down the whole town? From 1983: 844 words 365 views |
| To Brandi Cook on bacespook: "I removed myself from a toxic-to-me situation. I didn't keep in touch because I didn't know who I could trust ... and I still don't. 😢 But I don't hate them. That would be a waste of my time and energy. Some of them never deserved either." What else have I left behind? 2023: Fear of water. Finally learned how to swim a bit. 2009: Faced my fear of going back to Costa Rica. Lived there again in 2012. Visited many times. 2007: Homed; the transition was very difficult. 2004: Homelessness = meant I was no longer a human being deserving respect. 2003: Fled. "Woke up" in Oklahoma. 1999: Avoiding the g-word. 1988: Severe car accident that put me in the hospital and scrambled my brains. a. No longer fear dying in a car. b. I really don't know how badly it affected my brain... c. ...but I think soft-ware was dumped and that helped me think/dream in Spanish. 1974: Innocence. In so many ways. 1970: Fear of leaving home. Purposely moved far enough away... but not too far. Some events were internalized and my body has kept score. I don't sleep well at home but I'm fine on the road. My nightmares have found me in Thailand. I don't 100% trust people I know but I love strangers. I have a weird relationship with privacy. Hostels are fine but I need to be alone at times. I carve out "me" space. But... I crave connections.  I only have so much time left on this earthly plane (be it one month or 20 years). Going forward: 1. Give up. Find a place to die and never leave until I do. It's option #1 for a reason. 2. Nomad. Give up having a home-base. Go wherever. Do whatever. Die wherever. Let it be a final surprise. 3. A mix of home-base and traveling. I've been doing this. It's exhausting. I could rethink it. That's exhausting. 4. Just not care. But I've been numb (1986) and didn't like it. 5. Let someone else decide. Which, if I don't, will eventually transpire. To Adherennium in "Despondent, defiant, delusional" "Blueprints are available; but, humans-for-hierarchy don't see any commercial value.Consumerism preaches that more = better = happiness. Patriarchy teaches pecking-order and first versus second class humans. A natural consequence is colonialism. There are better paradigms* out there. Keep looking. *The struggle is "paradigm shift" and a lack of a detailed "how to" as you stated." And in "Not really a follow up as such" : "I don't review but I do comment.  "Some of you may be familiar with Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Put simply it shows that what you focus on as important, depends upon your needs. You aren't likely to be looking at changing the world if you are struggling to find food, shelter, heating etc. In short the basic essentials to life." I humbly disagree to a Western assessment of 'needs'. Many poor people around the world live collectively. They survive or starve as a community. Consumerism actually disrupts this as the Western paradigm demands better food, better shelter, better... everything ("whatever I'm selling"  ). I mostly reject that. I'm eating rice with an egg this morning but Pannya just brought me chocolate milk from 7/11 (bless him; I really don't need it).Poor people don't starve here; but, Thailand is very attuned to consumerism and many fall prey to the notion that being 'normal' like everyone else isn't enough. However, the good side is that service is great. People are known to actually smile! And those private extra-attention massages? Most likely supporting a family. Perhaps poverty needs to be embraced. Monks do this all the time. Food, shelter and clothing is simplified and time and effort is focused elsewhere. But living within one's needs would put most mega-proponents of consumerism out of business. To THANKFUL SONALI Magical Days! in "Counsellor " : I've been wanting to visit but my life is topsy-turvy and I wouldn't want to be a burden. I'm watching "I'm Tee, me too", a Thai series (2020) about a young man who's going to lose the family home after his mother has died. He decides to take in borders... Wattee takes in another Wattee (T-Rex... who doesn't want to live alone), Maitee, Maetee, Teedo and Teedet. 6 Tees in all. Yes, they're all quirky and 'difficult to live with'. Well-drawn characters. The two Wattees provide a plot twist too. So... the House of Hufflepuff will just need 3 or more borders to make it work. And yes, this is a serious recommendation. 2 long-term borders and a room for visiting writers/friends comes to mind. I could see your father benefiting from this; but, you know best whether now is a good time. I'm at an age where living alone is no longer the wisest choice. My health, especially mental/emotional is a key concern. Physical limits may be in my future (one never knows)." And in "11/10/2023-'legacy'" : "Legacy... I have no children. My writings? Maybe not. My efforts to bring people together in the 80's 90's and 00's? All already forgot. The people I've taken in and helped? That's up to them." To Wandering Thoughts in "Laws upon laws warp reason and intent" "Examples come to mind. Observant Jews have hundreds of laws and many spend time obsessing over which ones apply where and when. Switzerland is notorious for rigid laws, as is Singapore. Simple exhortations like "love thy God, love thyself, love others (especially your enemies)" get drowned out by pedantic nitpickers (example: US Supreme Court)." To weave these together. We all do the best we can. To misquote Maya Angelou (again and again), "when we know better we do better". I struggle, getting lost in unimportant daily nuisances whilst ignoring the larger landscape; or, I get caught up in ephemeral politics and drama without putting it all in perspective. 955 words 355 |
| I lost half of my entry. Then my chromebook wouldn't connect for one hour... It's 1 a.m. and I'm exhausted and can't remember what I wrote. This type of blogging is time consuming. There's a real question as to whether it's worth my time and effort. To Sorji in "Catching Up" Little by little, day by day. I'm using my blog writing for NaBloPoMo rather than NaNo... Only 6278 words but 20k would be fine. Responding to blogs is work. Sleep. Pan just got back today. He spreads out so I'll be clinging to the edges again. My life is "tough". *sarcasm* It's been very tough in the past so I am grateful for this time spent in Thailand. It's been one year. Pan cooked tonight. I eat less when he's not here. Easy to just skip a meal or forget. At least you and Danny look after each other. Even sniffles count. Overtime is great for paying bills; but, it's overrated as a lifestyle unless your work = your life. Hobbies and writing provide some relief and some balance. As for scraps of stories... they can be priceless. I seldom throw ideas away." Balance... I've teeter-tottered through life. My present routines include exercising, walking, writing, watching Thai programs, and chatting with people daily. Working took up too much time, imho. It helps that I can live now on what others would consider 'low income'. But I mostly manage quite fine. After-all, I'm in Thailand. To Harlow Flick, Right Fielder in "Invalid Entry" "Yellow not mellow" Describes my life at times. My father was mellow. Gary is mellow. I know what mellow looks like but struggle to let go. I'm a tad too wound up.Thought police state... not far from the truth. There's a real risk in expressing an opinion. It's time for my generation to get out of the way of making final decisions. Mentoring and advising are both quite appropriate for old geezers like me. Especially when given from a rocking chair. Hopefully, both old-raisin prospects gracefully step aside. Tyranny is not limited to one political persuasion or point-of-view. It's the intolerant my-way-or-the-highway attitude that defines it. As for Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull (Posie Parker)... she seems to be hateful. My experience with trans-people is personal and has been positive. I've traveled the world. There are "queer" people everywhere. Here in Thailand? Trans is basically a non-issue (especially among youth) as this culture is respectful and not hung-up on petty dramas as to whether a person has a penis and what they do with it. Americans however are obsessed with sex and violence. I see it as a human-rights issue regarding body-autonomy and respect. From what I've read Posie Parker believes in neither." As for pronoun usage: "The singular they isn't actually new. According to The Oxford English Dictionary, the singular they showed up in writing in 1375—over 600 years ago! The OED also suggests the usage is even older since written language usually reflects trends already present in spoken language." I use it all the time and I'm not confused, so I don't understand why other people are upset about this. Lack of education? Stuck in grammar school? Lack of hearing? Lack of just allowing people to live their own lives? To Joy in "Cold November Rain" : "I remember cold November/December rains where I grew up in the Great Lakes. I preferred snow.But I did like the end of autumn when only the last bronze or brown leaves, that refused to let go, glistened when wet. The sadness of it all suited me as a youth. I may have been "emo" before that term was commonly used (not used as much now). Once the last leaves fluttered and fled, what remained was only stark and dark. I love this: "Raindrops like icy whispers tapping against the window pane, the gray clouds reflecting a mosaic of muted colors, and the mostly bare tree branches against the overcast sky, with silhouettes stark and haunting, try to wash away the remnants of the passing year." Quite evocative... and I can relate. Here in Thailand... the rains are ending, the sun is weaker and next week the temperatures may dip to 70! Certain orchids (Rhynchostylis, I think) are preparing to bloom. Every flower has its season. November is mostly a good month in Isan in north-east Thailand." Winter officially begins when night time lows dip to 23C 73F. However, today was 90 (warmer than normal). November-February is "cooler" in most of Thailand. I first came here last November. Arrived in Udon Thani on the 8th, met Pan by the 12th, and moved into this condo on the 18th. 765 words 352 |
| Bear with me. It's 3 pm. here and I haven't taken a shower yet; although, I did do my exorcising and feeding. Some cleaning too. To tj wanderlust-words-in-motion in "Invalid Entry" We do not hug bears in Montana... that would be bear-food tourists. The bears I saw as a child in WNY were small black bears. The ones I saw in Kosovo were rescued and behind barriers.By-the-way... I just realized that callmetj = call me TJ... Yeah, I'm ready to become worm-fodder. Speaking of which... To Charity Marie - <3 in "Las Vegas" I had lived alone for so long... came to Thailand and wham! I met Pan one year ago this week. I'm better off living with someone and being here has been 'interesting'; but, I'm not sure that the future will be anything other than lonely. Hard to make friends here , full stop. And I'm too old for anything more than acquaintances. I'm surprised that you were surprised about Vegas. Tourist party towns can be rough. I remember moving to a sleepy farming community in Kansas in 1975. I learned a lot and felt 'free' for the first time in my life. People were friendly too. I still miss that. But time moves on and small towns have bled all the movers, shakers, and oddballs. I suspect all that remains are the bitter, waiting-to-die, addicted-to-something or those defined by close-knit membership-only church communities. I'd go back to Kansas but I can't go back to 1975. Udon Thani isn't a tourist town but the ex-pats aren't overly friendly and with a red-light district left over from the Americans during the Viet Nam War (and few backpackers, travelers or tourists) there's a false belief that all foreigners are wealthy. I get treated like an ATM occasionally. To Lazy Writer est 4/24/2008 in "Day 7 November Blogging Challenge 11/7/23" "Tolerance does change with age. I immediately thought of gall-bladder or liver issues. Peanut butter is oily and gritty. Intestines? Diverticulitis? My liver needs to be checked so that's on my mind. I do love basic peanut butter cookies. Peanut butter is expensive in Thailand; so, I have to stick with shelled peanuts, chopped, or made into satay. Growing up in an unhealthy factory town = cancer of various sorts. I've lost a few, some at an early age, probably many I don't know about. I use skin moistener but retinol has side effects and unless I'm willing to address those I'm better off not using it." Pannya uses beauty products to cover, remove or whiten blemishes. He believes in make-up and botox. Me? I ____, shave, shower, and put on deodorant and go. I'm very slow at getting myself together though. Robert Waltz in "Worlds Enough" "We often fail to find what we don't expect exists because it's not where it's 'supposed' to be. Ah... a common human foible. Eris/Dysnomia is an example. Orcas/Vanth another. That said... I'd rather visit Ceres or Pluto/Chadron. As for Vulcan... too hot for me regardless." 90 degrees at noon; 91 at 3. Tad too hot for me; but, the a/c's too cold. We might get relief next week. I don't think I'd do well on Vulcan or beyond Neptune. Odd thought though... Orcas is considered the anti-Pluto. Does Eris have a similar anti-celestial body? If so... name it Ursa (she-bear)! 531 words 348 |
Jodi suggests Delta next time I intend to fly... I do like Delta  but Asian airlines like Asiana and ANA are so much better.No, I didn't "fly" today; but, staying at home isn't good for my mental health. A short day trip may be in order. It's better than bleaching the bathroom. I've complained about getting few to no comments in the past. Today was a pleasant surprise. Eleven plus a merit badge? Not up to responding tonight but I will soon. I'm lying in bed with the TV chattering in Thai at me. I did get out and buy some staples (rice and coffee). Couldn't find ant poison though... We have ants. Exterminators come on the 9th but that's for the building in general. In other gnus... Q-fakery season seems to be back. I'm tired of begging people to think rationally and genuinely care. I read YCC (Yale Climate Connections) as I'm truly interested in the weather and I have friends all over the globe. Q is there as well. Same with MSN and bookfate. Too many vulnerable folks I care about to brush off the attacks on truth and sanity. Yes, there's often more than one way to look at a situation but irrational conspiracies and name-calling exhaust me. And so much reminds me of high school bullying. I've done my own research in the past and have work and life experience. Few are interested. The world moves faster than I can keep up with it. Some days I'm lonely; other days I'm useless. But I pet two cats today and greeted neighbors... so there's that... Today I pointed out to a WdC member that the Year 180 refers to the Baha'i calendar. It's not obtuse nor obscure but apparently most people don't know Baha'is, and we're used to using the calendars of other people. Kinda a one-way street. People in positions of running things don't have to accommodate anyone. That's why Black Folks need to know White Rules (so they don't get killed) while White Folks travel the world expecting to be catered to. See it all the time in my travels. I'm no saint (saint I ain't) but I try to connect in spite of language and cultural barriers. I don't always succeed. WdC is a case in point. After 18 years I'm still an outsider. It's lonely outside. To Sarah Rae on the newsfeed: I'm officially at 4520 which is fine. I'm doing NaBloPoMo, instead of NaNoWriMo, and using my blog comments and adding other thoughts and posting daily. 20k is a reasonable goal for me considering I may have a couple distractions to deal with this month. How will I tie 1. wanting to jump out the window and 2. scrubbing the bathroom floor with bleach with 3. the minimum of reading and commenting on three blogs? That's my goal for today. To Schnujo NEEDS to do homework responding to her newsfeed comment: "I looked out the window today and felt the urge to fly. I'm only 8 stories up... short flight. I literally got on my hands and knees, poured bleach and scrubbed. I've removed most black spots on the tiles. Could it be mold? I don't care. The WdC commenting has pitfalls. I didn't do well yesterday. My ability to express myself clearly is 'off'. Depression and boredom and anxiety and ennui. I'm not well; but, I always get through these bouts... ▼ I first came to Thailand one year ago. I actually set my blog on a large font for Jodi. Not everyone has good eyesight. Mine has been iffy the last few months. To Agent Goat on YCC: "There's a great meme about Native Americans wanting their land back. Note: the Cherokee were forced to move around 1835 and promised a seat in the House of Representatives. They are still waiting. Palestinians need to vacate because a group of people who have survived for nigh on 2,000 years want it back? Perhaps talk to the Moabites, the Canaanites, the Ammonites. The Samaritans still hold on. Part of my family immigrated to PA/NY from Sweden, other parts we aren't sure about (family secrets and lies) but originally? Who knows. Who cares. I'd be very surprised if I didn't have Neanderthal genes." To Toesinthe water on YCC: re "Americans are all satisfied they are well-informed, no matter where they get their information. I mean, everybody but us, here!" It would actually be nice to have an 'open-answer' survey (1000 individuals) asking that question. The answers would most likely fall into 3-5 categories... 1. My Jesus told me so. (the church) 2. Daddy and Mommy are always right. (tradition) 3. Social Media (I can tell truth from fake). 4. I don't care. (survival mode) 5. Whoever shows me the money (human greed). And a followup: "There are different types of surveys. Socio-linguists can tell you all about it. I conducted a short survey not to provide statistics but to unearth the questions that need to be asked. I studied Spanish pronouns. Prior studies in French and Spanish had focused on the formal/informal usage of second person. Pretty papers... simple questionnaires, nice tidy results. I believed/believe in messy and "ask the wrong questions = get the wrong answers." Why ask which pronoun you use with your mother if you don't have one... or have one that doesn't speak Spanish! The only family relationship my subjects had in common was "brother-in-law". I could still give a talk on that paper from 25 years ago. So... I refuse to be cynical; because, I could do a survey that would blow narrow-focused statisticians out of the water. And the simplistic polls they run." To 🌻 pwheeler ~ love joy peace in "5 Different Ways to Make Vegan Beans and Rice" "Beans aren't used much, if at all, in Thailand. Soybeans, peanuts? Yes. Protein? Fried or fresh insects. Eggs. Pork, fish, chicken. Rice is the staple of South-East Asia. We use many varieties of white rice. Gallo Pinto (the Costa Rican and Nicaraguan) version for breakfast is what I'm used to. I love it. I need to have my vegetables cooked/broiled soft (especially roots like carrots). My teeth can't eat them otherwise. Rice and beans are both survival foods. Cheap rice. Cheap beans. Cheap ingredients. Whatever's available." To Eric Wharton in "Show, Don't Tell" : "As Christians, we can be very good at telling others why they need salvation, but more often than not, we lack the ability—or desire—to show them what it means.Which is one basic reason why I'm not Christian, Eric. From a distance we outsiders only hear about the injustices and animosity between the Christians of Mississippi. You know different... because you're there and both you and Debi strive to be loving people and demonstrate that through your actions. Although many Christians talk about faith and correct-belief they shut people out by their actions. Maybe they should read James? Have you done a blog about James? Sorry, I haven't kept up. Good to see that you're posting." To Prosperous Snow celebrating in "Thanks Be To God" :unpacking luggage I should have tossed a century ago. I'm struggling. Thailand is the "Land of Letting Go". I know how to say 'no worries' in both Thai and Lao. But I still worry about Pannya (he left for a week; he's trying to sort out family issues in his hometown) and about myself. Do I stay another year? Have I learned anything by living in this Buddhist-informed culture? Detachment isn't taught much in the USA. Greed, vengeance, anger, self-righteousness? Unfortunately, yes. The virtues of generosity, forgiveness, peace, humility are the antidote of these poisons." 1247 words 342 |
| I managed to video-chat briefly with Pan. I worry too much. It was raining in Khun Han. It saddens me to be of no help. I'm also not thrilled to be alone. It's okay as a break, but I shouldn't live alone. I also need to decide about where I'll live next month. I want to include Pan in that discussion. I dream of where I once was happy. But, that river emptied into the sea long ago. And travel? Getting harder as I age. My body and my mind aren't flexible enough to just go somewhere spontaneously. And my mind... slips. I'd love to have a cottage in Lone Elm. A window looking upon a large garden. Book cases. A lap-pet. An old car to drive down empty roads. I want to be young again with what I now know. Silly me. I make lists and they do help me accomplish something. But... happiness and joy aren't on those lists. It would be nice to have friends, be surrounded by friends. Perhaps never again. No reason to fear Death, but dying isn't necessarily fun. Best to learn how to let go now. My faith believes in inclusion, tolerance, fairness, reality, community. The much maligned DEI comes close. American Christianity does not. The "Church of America" emphasizes a world vision of superiority, iron-fisted injustice, an elite exclusive gated Heaven I would call Hell. So, I'm not enticed by its marketing of salvation. I come from the Creator and so shall I return. But I have so much to learn before I go... as if I could choose the time and place. Where do I want to die? If I were certain I'd go there to live. To Sum1 in "Schaumburg, Illinois" "Kansas... Salina again? Or elsewhere.  I'd love to meet you there but my plans are up in the air. Someday I do need to go back. Stay at home over Christmas Break? The wear-and-tear is real. That's one reason why I stay in Udon Thani 2-4 months rather than move about constantly. I must re-think any future travel; I may go in groups (hate that idea, but...) or incorporate more time for just doing 'nothing'. The time-zone issue is mitigated if I travel north-south (the Americas; Europe/Africa; East Asia) or within a time-zone (ICT includes Thailand, Viet Nam, Laos, Cambodia, Western Indonesia; China, Malaysia, Singapore, Western Australia, Taiwan, Philippines are one hour ahead and Myanamar :30 behind). Reading your last blog... autumn. Winter is officially here when morning lows hit 73. I think we've had one day of that so far. Temps are above normal in NE Thailand... and that isn't good. Pumpkin.  I'd love to have a lap-pet, but not allowed in our condo, difficult in Montana, questionable as I get older unless there's someone younger around to help. I give free pets to any cat or dog that requests one." To Pumpkin in "Planning Ahead" : "Yep. My blog, "Porthole" has lists I check off daily. Not important to do everything every day; but, when I'm traveling I have a special checklist. I'll set out my clothes the night before. Packing is a nightmare in spite of the preparation. Mostly, I'm fine. I still feel that last minute hysteria that comes with the slippage of my mind. The daily list includes learning/using/watching Thai. Since I'm in Thailand that makes sense... until I forget... therefore the list. No one reads my blog or comments (about one or two per month). Locally, I do share my accomplishments as chit-chat. I know people who exercise daily, have rigid diets (I don't), know about the pitfalls of Thai culture and government rules (helped me with the anxiety I felt over my visa extension). Not everything can be verified or makes sense online. I've lived alone for so many years... I'm enjoying sharing a place here in Udon Thani and wonder whether I should ever live alone again. Yes, I can still live alone... but should I?" To AmyJo-Downhill slide begins! in "TUYC - Nov 4th - Times of Noah?" : "Yes, we all die someday. But, not all things come in predictable cycles. Yes, there have been Teachers, most seldom heeded I may add. Noah was Noah. Moses was Moses. Jesus was Jesus. And I could list others that most Christians neither acknowledge nor respect. And yes, we go about life (as we should) until the day we die. I'm not a believer in the Apocalypse. In my opinion it makes people not care about doing anything about the present. "Live fast. Die young!" is how it was put in "Rebel Without a Cause". I care deeply about fellow humans and all Life with whom we share this Planet. Worried? Anxious? There's a lot of angst going around; but, there is much that can be done about the pitfalls of modern life. What I remind myself: 1. Look around you? See the beauty! Don't buy into fear. 2. Love is an action verb. Love thy neighbor? Sure. Now love your enemies; then, try to understand them. 3. Let science (there is more than one p.o.v.) help provide answers to physical and biological events. There are answers to climate change and epidemics for example. 4. Let Scripture (there is more than one book of guidance) provide answers to spiritual questions. 5. Use critical thinking. Science and Scripture are like two wings of One bird. Heed them and let humanity fly." To Lyn's a Witchy Woman in "self-care and Tom" :"I care deeply about people. That has caused problems at times. I didn't always have good boundaries (still working on them) and unintentionally hurt some people whilst trying to help others. Here in Thailand I'm trying to learn to "say no" and "let go". Obligations to family and friends and community (losing face is part of that) are defined differently. It's a bit of a quagmire and I'm making mistakes, and hopefully learning from them. One thing I don't fear: physical violence. Thailand isn't as peaceful as it seems; but, there is a certain day-to-day feeling of safety. People here don't steal. They don't yell at each other for no reason. Most everyone can go about their life without the burden of disrespect. Although true friendship is limited to a close circle, people are pleasant, and mostly kind. The proof is evident on the streets with the lack of fear and anger in dogs, cats and beggars. No. Thailand isn't a paradise. Nowhere is. But, for me, America of the 1960s was like a bad marriage at times. Going to university out-of-town, moving around outside my comfort zone; and, more recently, travel has shown me other ways. We only know what we know until we know better. As for poor Tom: " 1103 words 333 |
🌻 pwheeler ~ love joy peace hosts a give-thanks poetry contest.
I bought coffee today, a croissant, a slice of crepe-cake with strawberry... I'm sugared, caffeinated and hoping I can sleep tonight. Pan isn't here. That means I can sleep spread-eagle. He usually hogs the bed allowing me to cling to the edges. Wish he were here. I miss him. I didn't have any drama today {a red day). I'm not as depressed as normal either. I have little new news; therefore, I have nothing urgent to write about. But I still observe (two doves on a wire, yellow birdwing in flight) and scribble notes. I keep track of my daily exercise (above average this morning) and how many words I've written. Even blog entries count. I don't charge people by the word. I did get to speak to people today. And I'm in touch with others... from all around the world.  There was a fire-drill today, insect extermination on the 9th (hope the geckos are okay... because they help), an electrical check a couple days ago. The big animals don't live in town. Monkeys and elephants are found in this region but not in the city (unlike Lopburi). We do have water-buffalo. They're huge but mostly gentle, nothing like bison. I watched the end of a series, "I feel you linger in the air" based on a novel, "Violet Rain" about a young man who almost drowns and finds himself in Chiang Mai 95 years ago. There will be a part 2 (or maybe 3). The thread is that Khun Yai is Jom's past and Jom is Yai's future. I really enjoyed it. Parts are sad and that suits me fine when I'm sad as well. To Kathleen Kelly (FB): I choose to embrace my coffee addiction every day. Trauma? Still triggered. Depression I treat by getting out, walking, exercising. I do try to be careful eating... not too much, not too little. In Montana it's best that I never buy chocolate. To stevengepp in "20231105 NaNo V" : "Life intrudes... and then bits and pieces become part of future stories. The homeless shelter daily drama (all channels, all the time) gave me plenty to stress about. Some of my best writing came from the time though...I'm writing 500-1000 words daily. For me that's enough right now." To Spirit~writer✍️🎼😸 in "No idea how many words I wrote!! Lol NABLOPOMO #4" "My pronouns are he/him by-the-way. I'm so not offended. Kare = a woman's name in Norwegian, but my name is Kåre. [å] is an 'awe' sound a bit like 'saw' or 'bought' in my American dialect. The only English speakers to get it right are Geordies from Newcastle. I only do word count because I'm using my blogging for "NaNo" to gauge how much I'm writing. My goal is 15-20,000. I still prefer to comment as I'm naturally chatty and crave connection. Many on-line are counting/looking for clicks. Everything becomes commercialized/monetized for some folks. Not me." To QueenNormaJean Julyishereboom! in " National Bison Day " "We have termites in the building but I haven't seen any. The exterminator comes around periodically. Next visit is this week on the 9th.Bison... I've seen a few. But only on the Bison Range on the Flathead Nation north of here and in the Tallgrass Prairie in Oklahoma. I respect them... at a distance. The Indian/Buffalo nickel was very special when we were children. Yellowstone... never been... but Scott, by-the-way, is back in Missoula. And I'm not. No idea when I may return." To Jeff "Underground Protoplanets" : We are stardust. We exist because human entities replicate their ancestors and those ancestors incorporated whatever organic and inorganic material that surrounded them. They swam through the primordial soup... eventually to become us. Theia... dear Theia, how we miss thy radiance in our sky. Now that you reside beneath our feet, we give thanks with every step we take. 708 words 327 |
| Out in the backyard after dark? Yep. I've rethought my exorcise routine but today I missed the morning. It's okay when it's overcast or once the sun goes down. I did the usual. Nighttime is different though. Each lamp post had its resident gecko. And it was quiet. Yes, I do need people. I try to visit Surada most every day in the late afternoon. Saw P'Nan and her sister Noy. Went out with Rube from Israel (his room, #7, is huge). I ate fried fish. He had his usual fried chicken filet. Family in Israel is suffering and he's unsure of his plans. The air-quality isn't good. There are warnings in Bangkok; but even here, the air is stagnant. Hopefully they have changed their burning policies or I won't be able to breathe. Pan left for Sisaket. His friend drove. He sent pictures of going down the highway. I responded with  . He should take his meds at 9 pm so I reminded him. I can't provide much support. I didn't take a long walk. Routines suffer when I get overwhelmed. I did manage to watch the beginning of a new Thai BL series. Not impressed. I find high-school settings to be cliche. I was confused at first because I know the actors from other series. Channel 25 has series (not all of them BL) at 20:30 and I try to watch them. I learn something about culture and language. Much better however if I rewatch on youtube with subtitles. Once I know the story I can focus on other aspects... such as conversational Thai. So... blogs... my goal is to comment on 3/day. More people are blogging in November. Both Andre and BCoF have challenges going. I participated in the last 30 day blog challenge a couple years ago. Not sure that my contribution helped; 30dbc has been dead since. Burned out by reading over 400. Gave out merit badges... not this year. I bought food the day before Pan left. I now have to eat it all before it goes bad. Not amused am I. No graham crackers or peanut butter though. Imports are expensive. I do have a bag of peanut satay mix though... If I had a cat  or dog  I could share my food.  To AnotherDreamer in "Invalid Entry" I need people. When I want privacy I close the door.I live in a condo. When I want nature I walk down alleys, around the lake, along the tracks. I used to live in my garden... a long long time ago. The orchids are getting ready to bloom, blooming, spent. The far hills on the horizon hidden by the haze. As a child I learned how to sit with paper and pencil in the closet, stayed up after others were in bed. We had three sets of encyclopedias. Now I share a small space. We get along fairly well. Today Pan leaves to attend to family matters. I will go to the corner 7/11, walk the alleys, visit the market. I will miss him. I open windows for 'fresh' polluted air. No gas in this place. But I grew up with the danger of CO poisoning. Story was that once I woke up the family... but I don't remember. Neighbors weren't quite as lucky, but lived. I will cook and clean and... for myself this week. I will cope. To Spirit~writer✍️🎼😸 in "Happy Friday 😁 exhausted but here I be y'all!" "I liked the opening of "Let No Man Write My Epitaph"; kid is charming. No time to watch right now however. I try to read blogs every day and comment (old timers used to comment... nowadays few do). My NaBloPoMo entries will be made up of my comments I made on blogs plus whatever comes to mind. My mechanical skills aren't stellar but I once successfully installed black pipe for a gas line! Is the cat crate for cats? Or am I missing something?" No Sox with Sandals in "National Sandwich Day - What's your favorite?" "I don't eat many sandwiches in Thailand; but, Pan brings me back something from 7/11 most every day. Today... chocolate milk, chicken, rice (why?). He thinks I'm starving; I'm not, just old with a clunky funky metabolism. Dogs are expressive; cats more subtle. Japanese? Thankfully, Thai actors are very expressive. Much easier to watch than talking heads. I'd gladly eat graham crackers with peanut butter. Do you deliver?" 717 words 342 |
Pannya (Pan) is sad tonight. At least he's not catatonic.  I realize that love comes in all colors. So... what is my love-color for him? Saffron? I do care... a lot. If I didn't my life would be easier... or not. At times we are like two broken trees leaning into each other. Sometimes... that's good enough.Pan washed the clothes today but not before we straightened out our misunderstandings. Clothes didn't get clean last time because the load was too large. I also explained that my clothes can't be put in the dryer... so he only dried the blankets. It all worked out. The clothes smell clean. The blankets are dry and the hung clothes will be dry by tomorrow. Tonight? He's sad, thinking too much and refusing to eat properly because he doesn't want to get fat... I could scream. He needs to eat. His medications are potent and must be taken daily (at three strikes a.k.a. 21:00). In the meantime I have work to do. My chromebook has been acting up. I have to finish this entry, copy-paste just in case it crashes. I cannot afford to lose this entry and cannot reconstruct it. When I post it I'll turn on the television and hopefully wake Pan up so he takes his meds. I think... not sure... that the final episode of "I feel you linger in the air" airs tonight. It's an awesome historical (1920s Chiang Mai) time travel Thai BoyLove series of 12 episodes. Very moving. Excellent acting, lovely cinematography, lovingly done. I'll re-watch it with subtitles. I wrote something silly in response to Jack's post, but that's how my Muse a-muses himself. I've had silly outbursts that transform into serious writing before. Wish I could write a Thai BL that way.K.E. To tj wanderlust-words-in-motion in "Unexpected Road Trip" : "I don't understand American Insurance... other than... the rich must get richer and the health of the poor doesn't matter. Even the poor in Thailand are treated better. Clinic visit is 30 baht ($1). 3 hours and $5 will get me to Khon Kaen. *sigh* There's so much about Thailand that annoys me but I may have to stay here or move to another cheap country because I'm poor in the US. Sleeping, seeing and hearing is important though. So... good luck." To Mousethyme in "Invalid Entry" : "I've had problems with my chromebook. Amazing how some of us raised on paper and pencil (as a left-hander... always smudged) can barely remember what that was like. Some of us need more down time than others. I crave connections but not interruptions. Are their mental-physical-emotional health resources closer to where you live and more convenient? I ask because Pan's doctor is an 8+ hour bus ride away. He goes 3 or 4 times per year. Still not easy." To QPdoll in "Invalid Entry" "I made mistakes all the time. I don't think I fully appreciated how having a good boss made a huge difference until I had a couple that added a lot of stress. A scholarship or grant can make a huge difference. I couldn't go where I wanted to go because of our finances. I have lived alone for years. Sharing this place with Pan has been great for my health and well-being. I'm not sure that I want to be on my own anymore. I'm adjusting to a different stage of life." To hammer48 in "Invalid Entry" "I write short poetry... sometimes short prose. What do my prose and poetry share? They're short. My Muse is not as short-of-breath or as short-sighted or as short as I am but he's a tad fickle. Alexander Pretorius Mayberry Alexandrovic a.k.a. Aliosha was as huge as a mini-planet... and his ears as large as an elephant. He could hear my footsteps dancing on the rings of Saturn even though he was on the far side of Pluto. Nothing escaped the attention of my dearest Aliosha. Not even the poisoned stiletto with his name on it. Just a-musing myself! Who knows.  I save scraps. Some actually become the genesis of stories.670 words 311 |
| Blogs give me ideas and prompts. Today: frost/freeze/snow; missing seasons and people; limits of beauty; acknowledging strengths; darkness; mentoring; ducks! I miss snow. Last night was 'cool'. Winter begins when temperatures dip to 23 degrees. Unfortunately, a hot sunny week is the forecast. It's easier to exorcise and walk when it's overcast or cool. I try to dress appropriately. Long sleeves and pants help guard against mosquitoes and sunburn. Wearing a hat or carrying an umbrella is advised. There's no frost or freeze here so bugs don't die off. They do come and go. Now is a change of seasons, of flowers, fruits, leaf fall and/or new growth. That said... at times I miss the life I once had. I have too many memories of people I'll never see again. I thought of a former boss who was great at details but not so great at managing people. And Marie and Tawny who would often set me straight about living in the Inner City. I do miss my therapist and a professor who mentored me in Kansas. It's been years but they helped immensely. New people? Today: a man, 63, from Dijon who knows Thailand quite well and a young man, 30, from Incheon, Korea who has only been here a couple days. I also spoke with Rube from Israel and P'Nan who works in the guesthouse Surada. As for ducks... Udon Thani uses a yellow duck as a local symbol, along with the orange flowering trees. Today, Thursday was an orange day. The social media comments I made today: To Impekabl at YCC re frost in Hill Country, Texas: "Frost and freeze is mostly good... except in Florida. However, a severe unseasonal freeze does great damage. Thinking of a friend who lost her fields of lavender when a deep freeze settled-in in early October. She lost her income... planted elsewhere as soon as she could." To Ralene on bookfate: "I like winter when it snows. In Thailand (no snow) it officially begins when the temperature dips to 73 degrees. It was 72 or lower last night. 65-70 would be better; but, I'll take what's offered. My seasons are spring and autumn elsewhere. I cover up, sometimes even when it's hot, to avoid sunburn, flies and mosquitoes." To Jolanda van Leersum: "I found Cape Town beautiful but disturbing. The people were either friendly or hostile. "The Two Faces of Kapstad" To Lani in "My favorite Author" : "Very nicely done. Almost a formal cinquain (I tweak formal ones; written a lot). Speaker: soft voice, cool head, maneuvering, calculating, observing. Wends his way to Paradise one vote at a time. Johnson. [180.148] I don't agree with US House Speaker Johnson of Louisiana on most issues; but, he stepped up to do a difficult job and his calm cool demeanor may help him move forward. I vehemently oppose his world view, but 2024 looms. I remind myself to be patient. As for Austen... different time, different culture, different use of language. I'm more fond of the dark Bronte sisters: Charlotte, Emily, Anne." To Apondia in "Mentors" : "I hated English in school. One teacher did get me but she was a second semester substitute for another who died. I avoided the subject at university. When I was homeless folks encouraged my writing. I was gifted an individual session with a professor. She was wonderful. I functioned better in life when people supported me emotionally. Mentoring would've been even better. Will you join WriBloPoMo at "Invalid Item" ?"To Lazy Writer est 4/24/2008 in "Day 1 30-day blogging challenge 11/1/23" : "Sad how much dental work costs in the US. I need to be reminded that here in Thailand it's cheaper... and that maybe I should avail myself of that option. I need to make decisions regarding... most everything... At the moment I'm listless. Someone does help me; but, he has severe medications and I need to look after him as well. It's like two trees leaning on each other. Not a perfect situation, but better than being alone." To THANKFUL SONALI Magical Days! in "Of Unicorns, Frogs and Cows" "I wish I would've been there. I did see your post of the froggle  ... I begged Pan to let me go with him in a 'taxi' to a Japanese restaurant. If he has money in his hand he spends it... but I don't. I wasn't hungry so I didn't stay and walked home. He doesn't seem to understand: I don't waste money; I need to walk every day; I don't eat when I'm not hungry. So hard to explain... I suspect it's beyond his cultural knowledge. So... glad you encouraged your friend's son to go with her. I do so much alone... another issue. Your father is fortunate. I visit the same places as often as I can. Even walking by and smiling helps establish a connection. A few words... even better. I cross class distinction boundaries as often as I can. As a traveler I don't always approve of artificial borders. Good personal boundaries are something else however (something I need to work on)." and "Confession Time" "Since "A Big Yellow Duck" is one of the symbols of Udon Thani I should give it a glow (it's a sunny ducky day).The other Duck Song by Bryant Oden:" 855 words + 467 = 1322 so far. 307 |
| November ... I'll try to remember. NaBloPoMo#1 To SandraLynn in "Murder Mysteries Please" : "Thanks for the suggestions. I love mysteries but no longer read anything current. I do love serial mysteries. I loved the Chyna Bayles mysteries written by Susan Wittig Albert (one of the few authors I've actually met in person). I cringe at horror; but, I can write it. Mysteries? Love them; but, can't write them. The hidden clues. The unexpected but utterly believable outcomes intrigue me. I grew up on Agatha Christie... 'nuff said. To Soldier_Mike in "Lime for the limey [Journalistic Intentions Rd 14]" : I forgot about Journalistic Intentions until it was too late. I could've done all of them... I love lime soda, key lime pie... Not so fond of that earworm song though. All the colors in the world! And I missed it.  Chartreuse was one of the basic colors of my childhood. It's the only color of our kitchen that I can remember. Years and years of peeling... fading like my memories. Maroon and white are still my high-school colors and maroon the color of the Montana Griz. I wrote a poem using mauve "Mauve Mavis" . I guess cerulean is close enough to the deep blue-green of midnight/prussian blue of my childhood. I didn't bring my big box of crayons to Thailand. To Richard ~ Looking for Luck! in "Please Don't Feed The Pet Peeves - Music!" : I watched/listened to Carol Burnett's rendition of "Send in the Clowns". Heartbreaking. Is she the best singer ever? No. But, she delivers with that song. She wrung every emotion out of it. She "owned" it.I've listened to Dimash's version of "SOS d'un terrien en détresse" dozens of times. Yes, he hits high notes; yes, his range is incredible; but, one can feel the emotion without even knowing the words and even his soft ending was perfect (live performance in China). Emotions matter more than notes. AI can play Bach's "Sheep May Safely Graze" ... but a drunk in a local bar can sing it better. Just my opinion. I easily get winded. I can barely hold my breath to swim 10 meters across the pool. Singing would be good for my lungs. My neighbors may not agree... but I live at the end of the hall and if the doors and windows are closed I might not embarrass myself. Pannya, who lives with me, has a beautiful voice. He practices singing mor lam. ▼ I cringe at every flat or missed note. No... I don't know what he is singing and don't know the melodies, but my ears cringe regardless. I can tell when he gets it right. And he practices to get it right. Me? I'd settle on just being able to sing it with emotion... preferably on key. 467 words 301 |
| To {huser:wolfgang in "Invalid Entry" : I don't want to be cremated. I need to make arrangements for wherever I am as I don't want to be shipped either. My parents rest side by side. It's appropriate for them. I have no plans to visit. I do visit cemeteries. Here in Thailand, cremation is common and ashes reside in niches. I visit them, look at the photos of when they were old or young. Marvel that some still have fresh flowers placed before them. My father's mother's family came from Sweden in 1888. I've gone to the parish church... but very few old graves. Once the family stops paying for the upkeep the graves are recycled and the stones placed in their own "graveyard". I could find no trace of the Johan Carlsons and Carl Johansons... and the office was closed. In England the gravestones are recycled as pavement. Me? Even my writings will be forgotten. Sadly, they receive little notice while I'm still alive. To Dave {huser:drschneider in "A Halloween Celebration" : "Nice rhythm and alliteration! The rhymes work as well. Edit and versify and voila... you have a free-verse poem (or a prose poem) for Shadows & Light. My dreamy brain... ghoulish? dark? My nightmares are definitely disturbing and don't always dissipate with daylight. Needless to say, I like it." To Elisa {huser:soledad_moon "Simply Pervtastic" XGC ratedSeriously, I think there's a case for making a horror movies based around male sex toys. Ah... "A Peg for Peggy" a homemade VHS tape gift-wrapped under the tree (or Friday 3 a.m. on channel 126). "The Joy of Andropause" the anti-viagra for those who aren't reliving their teens... or for those who watched Peg peg and want to be next. "Beckham's Dancing Balls" set to music (from what era... hmm... funk?) with its record breaking #1 hit, "Don't bind me balls mate". Peg makes a guest appearance. Edit: Maybe Beckham's Jingle Bells" would be a better title. Seriously. I think andropause may have caught up to me but in my case (early 70s) slowing down doesn't bother me much. P, on the other hand, is late 20s and his serious meds make it hard 'soft' for him. 297 |
| I remember the soothing whistle of the steam engines along the broadway of the Pennsylvania Railroad as it passed Grapeville. In contrast, diesel was so harsh... I remember our elm tree (MY elm tree) and my first garden in the back corner of the back yard. We had a cat, Tippy (one of my oldest memories). Small things make me happy. So much is now gone; but, while my life may have a hollow and lonely sound as if I'm lost... I'm still here where you can find me. To Chrys O'Shea - Writing again in "Things that Make Me Smile" : "Trains, trees and flowers. Plus any cat, stray or not that needs to be petted. I love caramel flan but chocolate... Small things tend to make me smile. My favs on your list: 11. The train whistle in the middle of the night and 4:00 am. I live in a mobile home park near the train tracks. Did you know that the trains sound different late at night than they do during the day? They do. During the day, they sound muffled and always in a hurry. Late at night, they have a hollow and lonely sound, as if they are lost. 12. Trees Always standing tall, strong and at attention. So many of them have been around for years—generations. I look at them and feel the history that they must have seen. Especially the trees in the forests." I'm not dead yet. That's one of my laments. It's hard giving up the dreams of my youth. But, there have been other dreams. And if I live long enough I may still live them. To Kelly Petersen on FB: "You will not be dead until those who remember you are dead. I like having young friends, but they'll only remember me as an old codger..." My day-to-day life is boring. Today I ate. I walked. I drank coffee. I think I saw a green/blue/brown kingfisher fishing. I made a green-blue tea out of pea-flowers. I took photos of yet another wat. Last night I went to a market. Tonight we'll go back. Chickens, dogs, frogs... and the sounds of the night in Maha Sarakham. To scarlett_o_h in "Invalid Entry" : "In Thailand (when is your next visit... ) I try to dress according to the color of the day. Thursday is orange. Once I dress accordingly I only need to look at what I'm wearing to be reminded. If I put on the wrong color though...My life is boring. I have daily routines I keep track of that remind me I'm still breathing. Plus Pan provides me with support. I've lived alone for years so this is good for me. Today we are in Maha Sarakham." 183 |
| To {huser:scarlett_o_h in "Invalid Entry" Well... Blogville is a Ghost Town, but there are still bloggers around. I post a weekly blog "Porthole" (which I started in 2019) but update every day. I've given up on being interesting. I just record my blah blah day, I do post my comments and my comments to my comments in "Bibimbap 비빔밥 " . My old blogs are still active with sporadic entries. Porthole lists them all. Most of the action is on the Newsfeed, "Question of the Day!" , "EXPRESS IT IN EIGHT " (poetry) and certain contests. So... check the Community Newsfeed and make some of the posters favorites so they come up on your personal newsfeed.I'm forced to make new friends all the time as people come and go. Carrots... I dunno what to say. Ducks?" To {huser:missbusta07 re "summer cold" Thoughts:1. Do give locally. There are many who do not receive money from large organizations; people matter. 2. Shitshow of mental stress... yeah, limit that. I had a bad day today. 3. Maui doesn't seem to be getting the media attention that's needed. But I'm sure Hawai'i is responding. 4. I have been generous in the past. I need to get back to that. 5. A new birder feeder on the deck! Close to the windows! Problem solved... so said the cats when they called me. To {huser:beholden in "I Blame Flo" "I watch Thai ads... being in Thailand will do that. Oishi (the green tea drink) is memorable. Products geared towards youth (the population is much younger than the US or UK) dominate. Anything controversial is avoided. Thailand is facing issues of a different ilk at the moment and everything must be approached at a slant. I had Farmers when I lived in Kansas and Nebraska last century. I don't carry insurance anymore." 166 |
| It takes a lot of time and effort to write and edit. WdC isn't very useful unless you are at the basic or, better yet, upgrade level. That costs... not much... but some people, especially the young and old, are poor. Writing and traveling are my priorities and passions; but, others need financial support just for a place to sleep or food to eat. Getting published? It may take 100 submissions, half of them rejections, the other half ignored, to even hope to get published. Connections help. Academic status? MFA? Name recognition (if you are already famous...), nepotism, money... In the end it takes money to edit, submit, promote... To Innerlight circa 2014 (Grace) "August 7 23" Why don't I submit? It takes more effort and energy than I have to spare. If I had a secretary... then I would. At my age "I don't have to do anything" but how would that be different than being dead? So... I do what I want when I can with what I have. I can't live someone else's life. So I write and I travel because I want to and I can. Ah... grammar! A bane for every writer, especially if they speak a dialect, or use language creatively. Poets are often a target of the grammar police. Essays in English? Don't get me started...  . Rain? I grew up in a damp climate; but, I've lived in dry dusty places. I prefer the rain. Until it floods. I live on the 8th floor.  To tracker "Invalid Entry" I'ts, very, easy, to, remember, when, to, use, comma's, when, you, use, them, all, th' time. Apostrophe's, not, so, easy... ... ... After three days of drizzle here... sun. I prefer partly cloudy days with an occasional sprinkle. I'd do well in Ireland.But it's the south-west Monsoon Season here (I think). Soon it will shift (no promises) and the threat of typhoons, heavy rains and flooding will become an issue. For me personally? Good drying day for the hung laundry. I changed shoes. The sandals were perfect for this climate until it rained. Slipping and sliding is great for children but not for those who easily bruise; and with age, broken bones need to be avoided. I can see a hospital from my balcony; another is within walking distance. I go further to get my hair cut. But, I don't want to pay a visit and learn about the Thai medical system first hand. To QueenNormaJean Julyishereboom! (NormaJean) "A Big Complaint" 0O0O0... Use the spray on the bugs?Just don't OD... someone may be blocking the way to the ER... just saying... I'm more careful with my movements now. Age does that. No twisting, turning, jumping... nothing quick or thoughtless. I work out every morning to get out of bed (movement is life) and to maintain what I have left (youth abandoned me decades ago). My mind keeps track of this in my blog... my body in other ways. Some days I swear it mumbles "revenge". 157 |
| Today is a Pank Day (which makes me think of David and Melinda McClain... both gone for years now). David was a true storyteller, one of the best here. Melinda loved horses. I think David named his blog "Almosta Farm". Wish I had copies... Sorji (Sara) "Good Vibes" Hopefully you can share "Red Hoods" soon. It's been a couple hours! You've been here forever... and a few days added. I joined 18 years ago as well. WdC has changed... and so have we! I watched Barbie a couple days ago. One of the shocks for Barbie was 'change'. In the end all of the "barbies" and "kens" needed to adjust. We will too. I document my experiences whenever and wherever I am. I try to mention places and dates... I can't remember everything and frankly... everything changes. My point-of-view hopefully helps others realize that what's in the tourist brochures isn't necessarily day-to-day reality... anywhere. And I find a need to remind others that my experiences won't be theirs. For example, I've never been a party person. JCosmos on Newsfeed: "Can't comment on what it used to be like in Thailand; but, in Udon Thani folks are fairly chill (but avoid the police). That said, there's lots of news about tourist misbehavior. People think that Thailand is a place where they can do anything they want (it has that reputation) and then find out that Article 112 is real and enforced or that arguing doesn't work well in this culture, especially with the police, or that respect is not an option. Daily stupidity keeps all the embassies and consulates busy. Isan is far away from the Party Zones of Phuket or Pattaya though." The movie "Barbie" was fine. Like "Pleasantville" there are important messages aimed at Mid America... but I'm not there now. Can't say whether the movie translated well in Asia. Pan and I watched it in (rapid-fire) English with Thai subtitles. He liked it. Me... it was 'fine'. I exercise and walk every day so that I visit the Real World and not just live in my mind. ridinghhood-p.boutilier (Patricia) in "August 7, 2023" A lot of people who live in a Barbie World where nothing changes are afraid. Many stick their heads in the ground and pray that everything goes back to normal. But... reality doesn't work like that. Others are aware but don't necessarily do anything about it, other than shout, and end up in despair. That doesn't change anything either.On this pink day (Tuesday = pink in Thailand) I'll exorcise (exercise), study, read and write. I'm not doing much either; but, years ago when I felt threatened by circumstances I left home and never went back. There were consequences, not all of them pleasant; but, "act or not act"... there are always consequences. 151 |
| All three bloggers answered the same prompt. I just follow. Time for more coffee... always. And feeling blessed that my left hand hasn't caused any problems. As a left-hander that matters. To Lyn's a Witchy Woman (Lyn) re "August and rains" Three days of rain, sprinkles and drizzle here. Much better than drought or smoke. The birds manage but I've seen fewer flies, bees and butterflies. Even the flowers may be holding off for some sun. They'll get some later if not sooner. I've opened the door to the hall and the one to the balcony to get fresh air. It's a 'cool' 79 degrees. I love the coming and goings of the seasons. Thailand has them too. We had leaf-fall last week after some heavy rains as worn-out yellowed leaves littered the ground. It's the season of green papaya as the season of durian has passed. There isn't any snow here, but by November, 60s will seem cold and then 50s? Dry season can be brutal on vegetation but some take advantage of the sun to burst out in flowers and new leaves if their roots go deep enough. Every animal knows where the puddles and canals are. Survival is always key. As for surgeries... they are a type of survival as well. Not as important as coffee but still... August in Costa Rica and Thailand is rainy. Monsoons at the moment. Mostly drizzle... all day. But it's cooler and not as threatening to my well-being. It's bright enough that the weather doesn't depress me. People do... but that's neither-here-nor-there. Good memories of Lake Spitfire in the St. Regis region. To Joy (Joy) re "August Rains" August was never my favorite month. Great in Geneva when I visited once, but nowhere else. I endure August. As a child I spent time in my garden. My father would take off work for a week or two and we'd go to my grandparents in sticky-humid Pennsylvania or to the lake after my grandfather died, and for three years to the Adirondacks when I was 13, 14, 15. University started in August and usually the first football game. But I preferred September! I've always been a Spring/Autumn person. But it's raining here today. I rejoice in the cloud cover. I worked out in the drizzle. I have no problem shedding tears. August 15 is mother's Day in Costa Rica. August 1st-2nd marked the beginning of Buddhist "Lent" here this year. I celebrated MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech every August 28th years later, for 15 years. But August was mostly hoping my tomatoes would ripen and that school would start. It often was a lonely month growing up. To Prosperous Snow celebrating (Neva) in "A Rainy August Evening" I loved storms growing up... even the flood of August 1963. Someone rowed down our street! I loved the storms of Kansas and Oklahoma. I learned not to cross flowing water. I found out that hail could hurt and that winds could rip a town asunder. August... die she must. I preferred September. 144 views |
| I truly believe that everything is related to everything. Specialists tend to make the big bucks with their hyper-focus; but, those who see patterns and understand the bigger scope of existence will make the bigger impact on whether this human world remains livable for us and other species. Our education and political systems need to consider that. To Beholden in "Being Schooled" "To me everything is related. Take woodcarving or woodworking. A tree has made a sacrifice. But what if it's endangered? Would a biologist know? And would a gardener approach it with a certain understanding and gratitude. Would a Jain or a Buddhist, an animist (or Taoist) or a Native American? Some would; others would not. And a cultural anthropologist could explain. Most Americans would only see board-feet or that it's a troublesome burl. And artist would see much more. And a home-economist could explain the uses of wooden versus stainless steel bowls. In a thousand years an archaeologist will want to know its providence and why it's buried on the moon... of Saturn. Most things are hard to understand from the Outside. I've lived in 4 countries. I traveled 45 countries; but, I'm no expert on Paris just because I was there for 4 days (charmed I was). It's why I'd like to visit Kentucky. I am living here in Udon Thani. The daily experience is enlightening, and humbling and disconcerting (do I move here... then die here...). What will I learn? Whatever I must! To Lilli ☕ for QotD "What is something you didn't understand until it happened to you?" "Homelessness. It's the lack of privacy, of respect, of options. Many can't find a way out without help. I couldn't. Or the freezing to death (Michelle), death by overdose (Jason), death by drowning (Susie), death by brain cancer (Byron) or being hit by a train (Jeannie). I wrote poems for most if not all. They were SOMEONE. A harsh lesson to learn in a very harsh way. And Death is the worst of it? Not by far. Very hard to not have a place to stay. It's a major reason why folks don't flee abusers, leave home or the hometown they grew up in. The unknown is fraught with danger. I've taken in folks, been taken in. I have experienced both sides. A bottom line? Be generous. Be grateful. Be kind. To WakeUpAndLive (Petra) in "The perfect house..." {c/magenta}"I dread having to move into old-folks housing. There's a long list and how does one anticipate aging! WTF. The price of renting has soared in the USA due to people hoarding property. And AirBnBs that turn liveable neighborhoods into tourist ghost towns out-of-season. Living in Thailand? Other issues; but, it's affordable now and that's not likely to change, outside of tourist destinations, unless the Chinese, Singaporeans, Russians, etc. are allowed to buy up everything. Greed comes in all sizes, shapes and colors. Yesterday was grey and cool and so was this morning. Rainy Season can be a blessing here. and "Fingers crossed!" "OMG... a spare bedroom to put all your WdC friends! Good news about your step-mom.  Subsidized housing comes with lots of strings in the USA and some landowners refuse people for any reason. Almost everything I need is within walking distance both here in Thailand and in Montana. It makes a huge difference. So, kudos on that. " 138 |
| We humans live short lives. Just ask the mountains who are children compared to the sea. And we are curious connivers. Ask any crow. They watch. They know. And they learn... To Robert Waltz (Robert) "Warped Minds" "Rivers bend back on themselves and create oxbow lakes out of former channels all the time. If space does that then why not just go from point A to G without having to recite the alphabet? Suez or Panama Canal anyone? Going faster isn't always the fastest way to get there. Warp drives and transporters may have more in common than present day scientists imagine. A different way of looking at it may be in order."Routines are helping me get through depression and anxiety. Walking, chatting, exercising, writing, reading really help. My life is not without its pitfalls and Thailand is NOT a Paradise. Least of all for me. I told this to Pear at Koala last night. She works next door to where I live. Coffee?  I hope so. Money isn't an issue right now. Shoon? I put on my worn out sneakers and can now walk with confidence on wet pavement. Rainy season here is dangerous when w.e.t. (with.every.tumble). To Dr Gonzo (Neil) "Befriend Or Don't Befriend Part II" "The Homeless Shelter was good enough for forging relationships with others with mental, physical, emotional issues. But... I don't want group therapy other than what I do here by commenting on blogs and sharing in-real-life. My issues are almost as diverse as humanity itself. One-on-one is nice.I exorcise (exercise) every day now (4 station mini). Some days more than others but overall I think it's helping. And I try to walk every day. Different muscles are used. Same with my activities here. Very different writing a poem than writing a story or vomiting in my blog. I do vomit best. My main problem in Thailand? A lack of friends. I'm not belly-to-the-bar like many of the old ex-pats in Udon Thani." and "There's Just Something About A New Pair Of Shoes" "I took my old shoes out of the closet. They're worn but are much safer than the sandals that slip and slide on the snot that soaks everywhere I try to walk. I should check into New Balance. I am already old and footwear is a major issue for balance.My sister sent money from my mother when she was put in a nursing home. Quite a bit really. I just put it in the bank as I wasn't traveling during Covid Season. May be one reason I don't stress as much over finances as before? I make goals, break them into objectives, sometimes don't accomplish everything every day; but, over time it has helped me. Past mistakes? I've been traumatized in the Past but doing better than before." I will never get to edit everything I've written. But it would be nice to get my vampire stories translated into Portuguese. My Thai/Lao may never get to that level of understanding. My cursive is lovely... when I try; but, making facsimiles for posting? I've thought about doing a small handwritten booklet that way. To PureSciFi "Mostly a Relaxing Day" "My journal has over 5,000 handwritten pages. If I could scan and save? Priceless.If I could go from cursive to text that would solve some issues. I could then use an on-line translator for a rough translation. Hope this goes well for you." I think of Thailand as a single-service society. Use and discard. That applies to both plastic and people. Hard to make friends. Hard to make friends on social media as well. Not everyone at WdC seeks community or deems to interact. But I try to use what I pay for, reuse if I can. And that applies to WdC, plastic and establishing friendships. To Agape Novels (Joshua) "Update." "I agree about using what you've paid for. I use WdC daily and that justified paying more for a higher level. I resisted... because I'm frugal; but, it's my main social outlet. I use *spacefook* for pictures and keeping in touch because I travel. Good for pictures imho. I've considered youtube and instagram. I know nothing about rumble. I do watch tiktok (too much). rumble skews younger and somewhat male. That compares to WdC which is older and female. Very different audiences. I'm not interested in monetization as much as exposure. WdC worked well for that circa 2010. No longer. google promotes monetized ads to the point that it's no longer useful for even basic questions. It's a $$$ marketplace (but not of ideas). I used Amazon once and cancelled. I suspect my personal info was sold by them if not [by] others. Fortunately, I'm not of much interest to anyone." 132 views |
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