Unclemick
Why the face mask - do they have bad air in Thailand?
Right now we are having the worst air quality we have experienced in Cmai. From the plane, all of Bangkok and all of Cmai were covered in an impenetrable brown haze. I was at Central Department Store/Tops the other day and city workers were passing out free face masks (!) I got 2. the one that MJ is wearing he brought from home, and has a replacement charcoal filter inside.
What does a normal person - I mean a local person look like on his bike or whatever the preferred mode of transport in Chang Mai.
Well, they mostly wear western style clothing and the younger women here are big on shoes. Mostly high heels of one sort or another. but the older women and workers wear anything in any pattern. It's not uncommon to see wild flower prints and stripes together, or two native woven patterns and mismatched colors. The wealthier women do have matched clothing and can be very stylish. I should look at their shoes more.
I don't see bicycles much - mostly motorbikes. The Thais don't prefer walking - they take local transport or own a motorbike.
Is it just me or do Americans go out of their way to look funny? We had a bumper sticker in New Orleans - You're ugly and your Mama dresses you funny. Considering I lived thirty years in New Orleans - I'm not sure I can tell anymore.
I can empathize... We have been traveling the world for 17 years now. Making a fashion statement becomes more complex when one visits capital cities on different continents. I mean... What is very 'happening' in Charlestown, Nevis, British West Indies (the island life, Mon) is not the same as what is considered sexy/attractive/cool in Paris or Caracas. ('Course then you have NYC -- just wear black but expensive perfume!) Or Milano (back to the shoes again, but far more expensive and be sure to have a decently enviable handbag) or for pete's sake Quito or Bangkok!
Myself, I just try to have a classic kelty backpack and good walking shoes. This world fashion thing has taught me countless lessons in how appearance is just that... appearance. Nothing deeper. 8)
Martha
Tell him hi. And that he needs to check in once in a while so we don't worry. He's looking great--suitable for the Men of ER calendar.
Martha,what a great idea! and he will be so pleased! Honestly. We just saw him again last night for happy hour at our 'office' and he is becoming quite mellow (for a New Yorker... )
Last year, when Billy told MJ that he was becoming very relaxed, you know, kind of losing that New York 'edge', MJ initially took offense (!!) This time when we told him how good he looked, how relaxed, tan, etc. He was very happy.
He belongs to a 21 club now... All those who survive the 21 day meditation course at Doi Sutep are part of this 21 club. MJ is 'discovering' himself! I told him I really admired his tenacity and dedication to complete the course...
Be well,
Akaisha
Author,
The Adventurer's Guide to Early Retirement
