Number 19

A short one this evening. Things are up in the air here about getting to the Philippines. We've heard reports that the airport in Bangkok will be up and running in 24-48 hours, in a week, or by December 15th. All our reservations are through Bangkok and if the airport isn't open when we're supposed to leave on Sunday, the additional cost to change everyone's ticket to fly a round about mulit-layover itinerary to the Philippines is about 38,000 baht each. (over $1000) In that event only Don will be going.

If that's what happens, I'll probably go to Pai for several days. Pai is about 3-4 hour drive north of here and has hot springs and waterfalls and a beautiful river. It's inexpensive and supposed to be a very laid back place foreigners and Thai's like to visit. It'll be pretty empty if the airport is still closed. If the airport is open by Sunday everything goes forward and I'm off to the Philippines.

Drove the car again today. Took 4 of the staff and housemates to yet another market. If Central Market is Ridgedale, and the Night Bazaar is Southdale, this was Knollwood Plaza. Everyone got what they needed and I perused the wares. Had a fun and tasty noodle dish from a street vendor. (it's considered a sign that one is integrating into the swing of things when you eat from a street vendor and don't get sick)

Spent the afternoon helping different people with a number of projects and did some work, with Sam and Dave, on the Lao Criminal Law Educator's Handbook. Everyone had dinner plans out so I made some pasta, watched the news and some sports and now I'm going to walk up to the main street to find a snack.

The sky was pure blue, the temperature was mild and it was another good day in Chiang Mai.