Away we go!!

Dear Friends-tomorrow marks my 14th trip (give or take one or more!) to Chiang Mai, Thailand! I remember the first half dozen or so times taking this trip---so exciting to think about the long flight, the transits through Tokyo, Taipei and other exotic locales, managing the Bangkok Airport and the luggage all the way---it always felt like such an adventure! These days, I must admit that while I so look forward to getting there, the trip over is kind of a drudge! The airplane seats are uncomfortable (understatement!), the food is okay, but not too interesting, going through the extra security check in Tokyo is more than a little annoying after 12 hours in flight---with nearly 8 more to go---yuck!! Why do it? Well, for me this is like going home. When I am there, it is like home to me and unfortunately, the only way to get there is by putting in lots of airplane time. Still in all, I am incredibly blessed and fortunate to get to go at all---so, the bags are packed, the books, ipod, and assorted distractions are packed, and I am more-or-less ready to go. I am glad to have you come along on this journey too. Who knows, I may just enjoy the flight yet!