Blew out my flip flop, stepped on a pop top...

So it would appear that this time around I'm not nearly so good about keeping this thing updated. Perhaps a few too many distractions... :)

The trip so far has been amazing. The only thing I'd change if I could is to have a little more time... Thursday morning is coming just a little too quickly.

So.... the reader's digest version...

We spent a couple of days in Bangkok, where I got to take in my first round of Muy Thai fights. I actually enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. We made the requisite trip to the Grand Palace and Temples and I was once again overwhelmed by how hot and sticky and busy Bangkok is... still not my favorite.

Long train trip to Chiang Mai with Stacia and her family... lots of laughs and a minor incident with a train attendent... story for another time. :)

More Muy Thai in Chiang Mai and a little shopping before heading back to Kew Sua.

I'm going to need more time than I have now to tell all the stories from the little village, but it was just so much fun to be back. The kids were so excited, and beyond thrilled by the dozens of pairs of soccer shoes I toted up there with me. That excitement was nothing though compared to the wide eyes and grins when Paul broke out the heavy bag he bought in Chiang Mai and brought along to leave for the kids. He spent a few days sparring with the kids and teaching the village chief a few moves. I have lots of pictures, and you'll have to see those, because words just aren't going to do. The building project was a success and Stacia will be returning next week to put on the finishing touches. More on that later too...

Right now, I'm back at Bee Bee's bungalows in Koh Lanta, hanging out in the same "Sugar Bee Bee Suite" I stayed in with Stacia last year. The beach is incredible, the weather is sublime, the Mai Tai's are cold and sweet, and I couldn't ask for better company. Life is good...

Hope this finds you all doing very well. Thanks to all of you who supported this little adventure.

Love, love, love...

My head keeps spinning, I go to sleep and keep grinning...

Hello from Thailand! I made it safely to Bangkok and am now in Chiang Mai, which is, as always, much more pleasant than BKK. We all head up to the village tomorrow. I managed to stuff about 40 pairs of soccer cleats in my duffel bag, and I'm guessing there are going to be a lot of happy kids up there! I hope this finds you all doing well. More soon...