Thursday before leaving 9-11-08

It's almost here - the day of the great adventure with my daughter, Mika and granddaughter, K. Rose. I really haven't thought too hard (yet) about what to bring - but the yawing opening in two large suitcases tells me it's time to start that thinking! Chiangmai here we come.

Mika is concerned about K Rose's ability to fly for such a long trip (about 15 hours - plus time between RDU and JFK. I've got earplugs from George - so we can sleep on the plane. Mika says the polite think to do is to give them to the other passengers on the plan for when K Rose acts up. I think we'll be fine. There are rows on the plane that we can run her down to help with the activities.

I've got paper, finger paints, big grip crayons, and lots of flash cards to help keep her entertained. Mika said she bought a DVD player and several cartoon DVDs. I want to make sure that we can pack some food for her - but I understand that we'll need t0 get "whatever" from the high-priced airport shops.

I'm hoping that I won't have problems with the RLS this time - since taking medication has been able to control it in other situations. I remember the last long flight and walking up and down the aisles trying to get it under control.

We plan to stay at Bankok's Shanty, a great little backpacker hotel Mika remembers from her prior trips to the country. Apparently it's next door to one of the best vegetarian restaurants in Bangkok.

I'm hoping that I can lose some weight on this trip. I need to lose some weight on this trip.


I'm tired. After a long trip to Indiana via car --- and a long trip back --- and little sleep in the interim, I'm drowsy beyond belief. It was really great to be able to spend some time with Jeanne, Matthew, and the boys - and Barb, the kids, Logan, Hunter, and Noah. I wish I could talk them into coming to Durham! Jeanne got some great shots of the gang.

More later.