Category Archives: Thoughts on a ________

March 20, 2026 · 12:34 am

Friday 3-20-2026

FlipKart

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Today is my “thoroughly-pampered” day of the week.

It started out really nicely because we met the other housekeeping lady for the building as we left for the gym. I was finally able to give her a belated St. Patrick’s Day card. She grinned a HUGE grin and hugged me. She was the last one on my list. I’m not sure if Thai people celebrate Easter or not. I’ll have to find out so I can make some cards for my core people here if they do.

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BC SPCA

I’m just back from a really nice massage. Every week I still miss Lynn Moody, my wonderful massage therapist in Greenwood, Arkansas. Lynn is not only a super good massage therapist, she and I are FRIENDS. Each month we would catch up on what was happening in our lives. I was so lucky to find her.

My regular therapist was not there again this week. With our pantomiming, Khun Sulee told me (I THINK) that my regular therapist, Khun Weaw, had to move from her place, pack THAT DAY last week and move. She apparently has a new place, but is either painting it herself or having it painted before she moves in. I THINK she will be back next week.

I’m really lucky that Khun Sulee was available to do my massage this morning. I feel great now!

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Altenew

I have time now to write posts for the blog and catch up on a few things before we leave for the cafe. My place is ready for Khun Nong to come and scrub my place while I am having a mocha, sketching, reading the book on my Kindle, or hopefully watching the traffic out the front window.

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I tried the 10-minute video of Qigong yesterday afternoon. I found it very interesting. It usually takes me several times before I feel comfortable following a video and relax into it, so I’m planning to do it today after I return from dinner. So far, I’m impressed. I followed the lady’s instructions as best I could and DID feel tingling in my hands and arms, and DID feel more relaxed when I finished! I thank my friend Linda Smith again for letting me know about this, plus I found out my friend Sheila Murrey also does this practice. I feel a bit late to the party, but I’m delighted to add something like this to my day.

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“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.” ―Thich Nhat Hanh

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March 18, 2026 · 9:20 pm

Thursday 3-19-2026

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This one says it all. I think it was made for me.

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This is my latest painted sketch. I consider this almost a self-portrait of me over the past two years or so, stuffing my face while piously ordering a DIET coke, looking a bit guilty…

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It’s 80 and sunny here. Windows are open, breezes are pouring in, I’m smiling as I type. I’m planning to concentrate on my puzzle today, seeing if I can finally make some good progress. I want to see that beautiful turtle emerge!

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I’m doing basic stuff today to prepare for Khun Nong to come clean my place tomorrow, such as changing my sheets, gathering my trash, putting out fresh towels, etc. I will get cash today so I can pay everyone tomorrow for my massage and the cleaning.

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Thanks to Linda Smith (thanks, Sweet Linda ❤️) I’m going to try this today.

“Qigong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is a 4,000-year-old traditional Chinese practice that combines slow, gentle movements, deep breathing, and focused meditation to cultivate and balance vital life energy (Qi). It is a mind-body-spirit practice aimed at improving health, reducing stress, and enhancing vitality through dynamic movement or still meditation.”

“Being happy isn’t having everything in your life be perfect. Maybe it’s about stringing together all the little things.” ―Ann Brashares, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Enjoy your day or evening!

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March 17, 2026 · 10:05 pm

Wednesday 3-18-2026

How could anyone stay down looking at this mug, even on too little sleep and too much to do for the day?

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Yesterday I shared Brian’s and my “Fur Real” bird (aka the “Koel” or ‘uwu’ bird). Today I want to share our “Woop Woop“ bird (aka the “Greater Coucal” bird) – we read a bit more about him and found that he will confront – and WIN against – a Cobra!!!! I’m very impressed.

We are happy that we can hear both of these birds when we’re out in the early morning.

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When Brian was eating at my place last night, he teased me about how slow I’ve been putting this beautiful turtle together. THEN he ‘griped’ about how much it was going to cost when he has to order a glass print of the finished puzzle to go on my statement shelf. THEN he asked if I’ve picked out the next one I want to order… He’s definitely a keeper! ❤️

Honestly, this is the hardest one I’ve ever tried. I’m going to put in more time on it today and see if I can make a breakthrough of any kind.

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I started painting another sketch yesterday. It’s also on my agenda to see if I can finish her today.

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I hope that Mother Nature has spent her last gasp on winter now and will bring some beautiful spring to everyone in the States starting today.

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“It isn’t what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It is what you think about it.” ―Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People

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March 15, 2026 · 9:07 pm

Monday 3-16-2026

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Boo – Hiss – Groan – I love it.

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Pinterest

Windows open, breeze coming through, sun shining – what more could anyone ask? I’ve walked my mile at the gym, increasing my speed a notch this morning; shared breakfast with Brian (breakfast burrito – with scrambled eggs, bacon, and salad wrapped in a tortilla, with a side of some Thai apple slices); and now have a free day – except for taking clothes to the laundry some time this morning. AHHHHH!

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Mid morning yesterday Brian peeled and cut up some of the mayong-chit we received as a gift from one of the building housekeepers. It was a delicious combination of mango/peach/plum and had a slightly sour, but mostly sweet taste. I really liked it, though it was a bit messy to peel and cut up.

Brian has cautioned me not to leave ANY food or any little drips or drops or smells of any food on the counter or elsewhere to avoid being besieged with ants. I got a HINT of that when I didn’t clean out my sink quickly enough, leaving a small drop of olive oil. It took me several days to get rid of them, and I’ve been more careful since. We have no problem at all if we are just super clean. 🧼

Anyway, the gift of the mayong-chit was super nice and we loved it. We’ll probably eat the rest of it today. YUM!

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This is my latest painted sketch.

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Ranger Rick

Today I will do yoga stretches mid morning. To this I have added some stretching standing up, arms together over my head, reaching for the ceiling, and then bending over and reaching toward the floor several times. I’ve also added some leg lifts (although I’m pathetic at this so far) and some abdominal crunches with legs straight and with legs bent. This makes for a good bit of exercise combined with walking the mile at the gym first thing every morning.

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I will get started painting another sketch today, 🎨 and see if I can make some progress on my puzzle. 🧩 My book on my Kindle book 📖 is calling me, as well. And, of course, before any of these, I’ll do my posts ✍🏼 for the blog.

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“Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life.” ―Omar Khayyam

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March 14, 2026 · 9:57 pm

Sunday 3-15-2026

I can’t find the artist credit for this, but it made me laugh.

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This is my latest painted sketch, but it didn’t turn out as I envisioned it. I had a good time and I learned a lot.

1) trying to use a real leaf -even one that is freshly fallen – is not necessarily a good idea.

2) trying to write on a real leaf is difficult and hard to read. This one is supposed to say, “Autumn is a gentle reminder that change can be beautiful.” I will try again soon and see if it goes better.

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I had a happy surprise this morning. One of the dear cleaning ladies in the building stopped us as we were headed for the elevator. She gave me this clear bag full of fruit! I gave her the St. Patrick’s Day card I made for her and she hugged me. It was a really nice thing.

Later when we were eating breakfast, Brian said, “Mayongchit.” I replied, “Bless you!” He then told me that is the name of the fruit the cleaning lady gave me.

I looked it up and found –
“Its season lasts only a few weeks from around February – April each year.
Small, oval-shaped fruit, small enough to fit wholly within the palm of your hand, is green when young, but will turn a deep yellow-orange when ripe.
The flesh of the fruit is quite similar in texture to a mango, however, the taste is quite different!  It is likened to a cross between mango and plum, with just a hint of sour flavor on the surface right under the skin which gives way to a sweet fruit beneath.
Mayong-chit fruit is also high in Vitamin C, fiber and water content – all reasons to make this great little fruit a part of your diet – while supplies last!”

Brian said we might take a break around noon and have some! 😋

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Freepik

I have my windows open and a delicious breeze is coming through my place. My Chiang Mai Air Pollution Real-Time Index website said ‘good’ this morning, and is still saying ‘moderate’ right now, so I’m soaking it up! I absolutely love they windows in my condo. Since I have the new ones, there seems to be NO leakage when it rains. The big test will be in the rainy season, but we’ve had a couple of rains now where I think the ‘bucket and towel brigade’ would have had to go into action and there was absolutely no problem.

The big thing when I enter my condo is the feeling of light and air. There are windows all the way across my dining/living area, windows in my balcony door, windows in my art alcove, and windows in the bedroom. My spirits lift and a grin plasters itself across my face every time I come in.

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Today is a quiet day. No errands, and the chores are mostly already done, so I’m free to write blog posts, paint, puzzle, read, listen to music, watch a movie, take a walk outside, take a nap… YEAAAAAAAAA!

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March 14, 2026 · 1:56 am

Saturday 3-14-2026

St. Patrick’s Day mailbox decoration

As the holidays come and go, I feel a bit nostalgic about our mailbox decorations. We changed these out twice a month – quite a laborious process. We made a hanging rack that hung near the ceiling in our shop and the decorations had hooks so that regardless of the size of the decoration, it would hang pretty neatly next to the ones on either side so we wouldn’t get clobbered trying to walk under the rack and they could hang without bashing into one another.

We would get out our tall ladder and my husband would climb up and fight to get the decoration off its hook without falling or dropping the decoration. We would have ‘discussions’ every time. I was right there ready to steady him or take the decoration, but he stubbornly wanted to do it himself.

We would put the decoration in the back of the truck and drive down our long STEEP driveway (over 650 feet) down to the road. We always carried the two wrenches needed to get the old decoration off the mailbox and attach the new one. It took two of us, one holding and the other using the wrench to loosen and then tighten nuts and bolts. This was such a fun time in our lives and I miss it now – although I’m not sorry to leave the steep driveway behind.

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We visited Harvey at the nursing home this morning. We weren’t sure which days we’ll visit next week, so I went ahead and brought the two St. Patrick’s Day cards I painted – one for the manager of the nursing home and the other for Harvey’s full time nurse, plus the new addition to Harvey’s ‘Happy Wall’ to put up.

Khun A. Porn, the manager, was delighted with her card. I explained that the shamrock was supposed to bring good luck. She said she actually has a shamrock tattoo! As we were leaving, she thanked me again and gave me a big hug. It was Peem’s (Harvey’s full time nurse) day off, so I left her card propped up on a table.

This is Harvey’s “Happy Wall” in his room at the nursing home. We got the go-ahead at his birthday to put pictures up, so now I’m trying to leave him reminders that he is loved when we can’t be there to tell him ourselves.

Today’s visit was good and bad, as usual. He recognized us today, said, “Hi, Babe” when we came in. He liked the picture I made for his wall and he liked my earrings. Not so good was he still thinks things have disappeared – been lost or stolen – when they haven’t. He also insists there is a shelf on the wall behind his bed on which several things have been placed. Today Brian took a picture of him and the wall behind him, but he wasn’t deterred. He also told me that he ‘talked Peem (his nurse) into sleeping with him last night.’ (Who could resist an 82 year old man, bedridden, frail, with a nasal feeding tube who makes very little sense?) I congratulated him and we talked of other things…

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Freepik

I had a great time sketching at the cafe yesterday. I got my favorite spot (hooraaaaay!) and sat there comfortably sketching while drinking an iced mocha, watching people come in and leave the cafe, and goggled at the insane traffic outside the window.

I’m looking forward to starting to paint at least one of the sketches this afternoon.

“Flowers and colours everywhere, I am so glad that March is here.”
― Anamika Mishra

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March 13, 2026 · 1:20 am

Friday 3-13-2026

Freedom to fail is a beautiful, freeing thing. Then you can enjoy no pressure, just pleasure, concentrating on what you’re trying to do without inner or outer voices making you doubt.

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MrFunnyMals – YouTube

I had a really nice massage this morning. The lady who works with my therapist told me that my therapist couldn’t be there today, but that she would give me my massage. I was grateful.

I had decided to take the St. Patrick’s Day cards there this morning, since the next time I see them St. Patrick’s Day will be over. Khun Sulee, the other therapist, was delighted that the shamrock meant good luck and put it with the other cards I have given her on the wall of the shop. I also gave her the card for Khun Weaw to give her when she returns.

Every therapist has a different style, a different emphasis. I am very lucky to have two ladies who understand that I’m old and might break if moved too abruptly or they use too much pressure. I am feeling wonderful right now.

Oh, last week Khun Weaw made a motion with her hands after my massage that I didn’t understand. I asked Khun Sulee, hoping that she might be able to explain. It turned out that they had noticed I had lost weight. I got out my calculator and put in 68.3 kgs (150.5 lbs.) (what I weighed when I got my first massage there) and then a subtraction symbol, and then 52.15 kgs (114.9 lbs) (what I weigh this morning) showing a weight loss of 16.15 kgs (35.6 lbs.) She understood the word “doctor” 🩺 and I pantomimed zipping my lips 🤐 and then exaggerated walking motions , followed by 💪🏻. She smiled and gave me a big hug.

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Gleem Cleaning

I’m pretty well ready for my fabulous housekeeper, Khun Nong, to come this afternoon to scrub my place. I’m trying to be neat in my new life here, and I keep things picked up and put away for the most part. I change the sheets, gather and empty the trash, and put out fresh towels before she comes. I feel like a slob because she scrubs everything within an inch of its life and lines everything up. She even washes and dries my bars of soap!

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I’m anxious to go to the cafe this afternoon, where Brian and I go to get out of Khun Nong’s way while she’s working. I started a sketch yesterday with leaves and I want to see what I can do with it. I don’t know if it will turn out somewhat as I envision or will be a mess. It’ll be fun to work on it. PLUS, I’ll be drinking an iced mocha while I draw, or I can switch to reading my book on my Kindle, or – if I get my favorite spot – I can goggle at the incredible traffic going by. Last week a motorcycle went past with a man with his child sitting on his shoulders, 3 kids behind him, and then his wife, who was laden with packages hanging from her arms. Amazing.

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“Despite March’s windy reputation, winter isn’t really blown away; it is washed away. It flows down all the hills, goes swirling down the valleys and spills out to sea. Like so many of this earth’s elements, winter itself is soluble in water…”
― The New York Times

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March 12, 2026 · 2:11 am

Thursday, 3-12-2026

“Distractions” -@pauljwillson.bsky.social

I love the light in this photo. I think this is stunning.

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I painted 8 cards like this in a St. Patrick’s Day theme to give to people in the coming days who have been especially kind to me.

This is the card I’m leaving for my wonderful housekeeper tomorrow.

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It rained a bit overnight, so the air pollution is back down in the “moderate” range. I’m enjoying a really nice breeze as I type this. 😁 🪟

IB Times India

I was a ‘good girl’ today, doing my yoga stretches this morning instead of waiting until this afternoon, when I might make excuses and not do them. Changing my routine to exercising when I am the most alert is working for me, so I’m going to continue it. (Full Disclosure: I am NOT – I repeat NOT even THINKING about doing THIS pose… ) 🤣

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Women’s Health

Shout out to Cathy, who has undergone surgery this week. She is very dear to me and I’m hoping she will recover soon and be able to go back home to continue her recovery. My prayers are traveling to her as I type.

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Shutterstock

My head is exploding from all the ideas I have for what I would like to try in my art alcove lately. I want to play with leaf designs. I found a beautiful real leaf on the ground and brought it home to see what I could do. I’m also getting ready to try to draw one of the shadow images I talked about earlier. I’m thinking of doing images that relate to words or quotes or parts of songs I like….

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I hope that you are feeling full of energy, full of ideas you’d like to try, full of things you’re learning…

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March 11, 2026 · 2:20 am

Wednesday 3-11-2026

“Meditative Ghost”- Catherine – @shadowdogdesigns.bsky.social

This is one of my all time favorite photos. I think it’s amazing.

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This is my latest painted sketch.

Today I’m going to start several St. Pat’s Day themed thank you cards.

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I had a visitor to my place this morning. I almost missed him. My window shade was the perfect camouflage for him. If he hadn’t have moved, I wouldn’t have seen him. He was a gecko, little bitty, skinny, body about 2 inches long and longer with his arms, legs, and tail. I watched him, but was too slow and dumb at o-dark-thirty this morning to get a picture of him. I told him that he was free to stay and eat as many bugs as he could find.

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Alamy

We visited my husband this morning at the nursing home. At first we thought he wasn’t going to respond at all, but he got a bit better as the time went on. He was fixated on wanting me to do a “REWARD” sign to hang outside his door, so he could list reward amounts for various things that have gone missing. Who he thinks would see the sign or respond is a mystery. He listed things that we explained had been left for auction in Arkansas when we moved, given to good friends, or we hadn’t had for years and years, but I don’t think we got through. He may be frustrated with me next visit because I don’t have the sign for him… He DID thank us for coming this time!

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Pinterest

My changing my afternoon exercise to morning has helped with me actually DOING it, rather than coming up with my inexhaustible supply of excuses. Today I’m having to do my yoga stretches at the normal afternoon time due to our visiting Harvey, but I have the mat on the rug now, looking at me…

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“Springtime is the land awakening. The March winds are the morning yawn.”
―  Lewis Grizzard

Make this a wonderful day!

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March 10, 2026 · 12:23 am

Tuesday, 3-10-2026

My latest painted sketch

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The flowers that my son brought me yesterday for my birthday celebration are still smiling at me today. Such happy flowers – gerbera daisies, roses, carnations, and more.

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Earthwise Windows and Doors

I had my windows open for a while this morning. It was lovely. I kept my eye on my air pollution website and closed everything up when the gauge went into the ‘unhealthy’ zone and turned on my air filters and my a/c and fan. It’s much easier to cool off here than it is to warm up!

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(This is the older tote.)

One of the handmade inner bags.

This is the other inner bag. These keep everything from being on the bottom of my carrier for me to have to route through to find things.

I washed my newer tote/carrier in my bucket in the sink this morning. I also washed the little bags that go inside it. All are out on my balcony drying now. I transferred everything to the crocheted bag I had washed several months ago (Pictured) , so everything is cleaned out and organized now. When the carrier and bags I washed dry (it may take a day or two) I’ll put them into plastic bags and put them in my closet to wait for the next switch.

I’m trying to take good care of these because the ladies who made them by hand take pride in their work and I want them to last as long as possible. I turn everything inside out when I put them on the drying rack on my balcony so any fading from the sun will be kept to a minimum.

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boredpanda.com

TeluguOne.com

I have switched my afternoon exercise sessions to the morning because I am making far too many excuses for skipping the sessions in the afternoons. Yesterday I started by doing my old lady yoga stretches mid morning. I felt good about that all day, feeling I was doing something good for myself and I felt good about not procrastinating or being a sloth. Today I did my exercises with water bottles at 9:00. I did a good workout, so I’m patting myself on the head a bit that I know myself well enough to realize how lazy I am and that I needed to change my focus and schedule to get around that.

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I wish you a happy day.

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March 9, 2026 · 12:38 am

Monday 3-9-2026

My latest painted sketch.

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http://www.funimada.com

BBC

February 11th I enjoyed a “celebrational 1st birthday” after the kind people in the hospital saved me and gave me a second chance at life with a pacemaker on Feb. 11, 2025.

Today I’m celebrating the fact that I’m still on the planet, living – and loving life – at 79. I no longer regret being “older than dirt.” I pass out little shovels! 🤣

I’ve walked my mile at the gym, showered, shared breakfast with my son, Brian, done a 45 minute session of old lady yoga stretches, and taken my clothes to the laundry this morning. My son gave me a big hug this morning in the elevator and said, “Happy Birthday, Mom” – some of the sweetest words a mom will ever hear. I received a beautiful e-card from a good long-time friend, so I have had a lovely celebration.

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My day will be a quiet one – my favorite choice these days – where I can move from one thing I like to the next at my own speed, depending only on what “I” would like to do. What freedom and joy there is in that!

I will at least get started painting another of my sketches.

I’m in the middle of a good book on my Kindle, have the Sketching Journal book I showed you recently that I’m having touble putting down, and have a book on Thailand I want to start going through.

My turtle puzzle is calling, “Linnnnnnnn-dahhhhhhhh!” from across the room as I type.

I feel so good after doing my yoga stretches early today that I’m thinking of doing a session with the water bottles this afternoon…

Before I do any of that, though, I will enjoy writing at least two more posts here.😁

I hope that you have enjoyed a great weekend and have remembered (in the States) that it’s Daylight Savings Time again, so you should have set your clocks FORWARD an hour.

UPDATE: My son texted me, asking me to unlock my door. He brought me a gorgeous bouquet of flowers, an iced mocha, and we each had a really decadent DELICIOUS dessert! I teared up, but manage to hug him several times without crying. He really made me feel special.

Sorry, I would have shared, but “somebody” ate every bite. At least I didn’t lick the container…. 😍

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March 8, 2026 · 3:30 am

Sunday, 3-8-2026

This is a sample of some of the beautiful flowers all over the place in Chiang Mai. Just a FEAST for the eyes and heart!

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Freepik

I walked my mile this morning on the treadmill at the gym, then shared a sumptuous breakfast with Brian of 2 fried eggs cooked together with slice sausage on one part and chicken slivers on the other, with 3 slices of a Thai apple on the side. Chaga mushroom tea with bone broth added. Just the thing after the gym and a shower.

Etsy

We visited my husband at the nursing home this morning. We had to get Harvey’s thumbprints on 30 pages or so of documents (again!) for renewal of his medical visa. We have to do this every 90 days in order for him to be here legally. The government is really picked about how pages are copied and where the thumbprints are, so we had to do it twice this time to get it right. Thankfully, my husband was feeling cooperative.

He knew who we were this morning and was happy that I brought the 2nd book in the Jake Moriarity series for him today. Other than that, he made little sense – he had ordered another phone plus a luxury electric hybrid car, AND he and 20 young women were going to make an x-rated move today….

I am concentrating on him being comfortable and calm, and what I can do to make him glad we came, rather than internalizing what he says or doesn’t say – the key to sanity – at least I HOPE!

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I rested a good while when we got home. I’m planning to paint some this afternoon.

My latest painted sketches.

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I’ve been enjoying doing some research, finding some things I want to share with you here. I’ve also been pouring through the new sketch book getting new ideas about things I want to try. I get started and my day just zips past my head, making my hair blow!

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Facebook

The severe weather across the U.S. was awful. It’s so sad when lives are cut short like that. I checked on my loved ones, and all were good. I’m very grateful. One of the bad things about the spring is the amount of severe weather as the temperatures change so drastically. Please keep an eye out for what is happening in your area and try to stay safe.

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March 6, 2026 · 9:30 pm

Saturday, 3-7-2026

Kitty Valley Ranch – Etsy

I LOVE this mug! I laughed out loud when I found it. I love this sense of humor.

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I received the sketching book I ordered and am finding it very interesting. It is written by a very talented artist, Kimiko Sekimoto. Her approach is to show you how to sketch on the go, in various situations. How to dress so you have all the supplies you need, what exactly to put in your pockets or carry bags, and more. She gives tips on how to draw a chair, for example – something that will really help me, since I am perspective-challenged.

This is her style, where she has a running record of where she went, what she ate, who she met, and more, with wonderful illustrations.

I will do a lot of studying of this book. My juices are flowing!!!

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I should have a nice, quiet day today, where I hope to paint a sketch, work on my puzzle, start a new book, and reach out to some friends.

I hope that your day or evening brings you lots of hugs and smiles.

“I love March as it gives me hope that new beginnings are always beautiful.”
― Anamika Mishra

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March 5, 2026 · 11:11 pm

Friday 3-6-2026

This is my newest painted sketch.

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Purr’N Pooch Pet Resorts

I had a glorious massage this morning and am feeling WONDERFUL right now! I am drinking a glass of water now because I read – “you should drink water after a massage to rehydrate muscles, aid in flushing out metabolic waste released during the session, and reduce potential soreness or headaches. Massage acts similarly to exercise by increasing circulation and, when dehydrated, lymph can become sluggish. Aim for 8-16 ounces shortly after, continuing throughout the day.” Ahhhhhhh!

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Vecteezy

We will go to the cafe this afternoon where I’ll sketch, read, and hopefully watch traffic if I get my favorite spot there. The cafe staff welcome you to stay as long as you like. I get an iced mocha and Brian gets an iced chocolate drink. Later on, if they can, we have them make us a lemonade. My favorite spot is a wonderful place to relax and sketch. I lose track of time as I sit comfortably, concentrating on trying to draw what I’m looking at. I usually do several sketches, then switch to reading on my Kindle, and then finally just sitting there watching the traffic whiz past – or watch as the cars, buses and trucks sit clogged up, while the motorcycles, motor scooters, bicycles and pedestrians, wind their way in and out between them. Simply amazing!

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The people at our chocolate place have gotten koi fish! This picture is awful, but I wanted to share the fact that the fish were very busily swimming around as we left.

Have some fun today!

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March 4, 2026 · 11:59 pm

Thursday 3-5-2026

Mrs M – @mrsmhere.bsky.social

“March brings breezes loud and shrill, stirs the dancing daffodil.”
― Sara Coleridge

I love this photo. It’s artistic, like the best of paintings as well as beautiful photos.

In Arkansas we knew spring had sprung when our daffodils sprang up. We had them all around our well house, plus dotted around in our planters, plus some clumps of them in different places in our front yard. I loved it when they bloomed, making our yard smile.

There was one ‘bouquet’ in particular that I looked forward to. One of my good friends, Debbye, died of recurrent breast cancer. At her funeral, there was a humongous bucket at the door of the church filled with daffodil bulbs. We were encouraged to grab a whole double handful and plant them in memory of Debbye. I did this, in a space in the front yard between the house and the beginning of the woods that surrounded the house. Every year they bloomed profusely, growing in numbers, the bouquet widening. I thought it was a fabulous way to remember a very special lady.

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I’m beginning to think that there exists a group of people I call ‘malicious puzzlers’ who exist to confound and frustrate people trying to put together puzzles. Among these are

  • the people responsible for leaving out one or more pieces of the puzzle, so you get all the way to the end and are unable to ever really finish the puzzle.
  • the people who carelessly pack the puzzle pieces so they are damaged, bent, or completely broken off so those pieces must be fitted at the very end of the puzzle building, still leaving holes or rough places in the finished puzzle.
  • I’m beginning to think there are people who delight in throwing in extra pieces that LOOK like they fit everywhere, but actually fit NOWHERE…

Can you tell I’m feeling a bit of frustration that my current puzzle featuring a truly handsome turtle is giving me fits? It’s making me doubt my ability to put puzzles together anymore. I work and work and only manage to fit a few pieces before I give up and go do something else. ARRRRGH! 😖

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We met my husband and his nurse at the hospital this morning to meet with his main doctor for routine blood work and an exam. The big picture was that the doctor was pleased and Harvey was alert and reacting to what was said to him. We got the meds we needed to buy from the hospital and the paperwork we needed in order to have the agency lady help us get his medical visa renewed for another 90 days.

The smaller picture made me feel like I was on a tilt-a-whirl, where you’re moving at breakneck speed in one direction and then are whirled around and jerked into the opposite direction over and over. He didn’t know who I was half the time. He called me, “Momma,” and he called Brian, “Bill.” Other times he knew who we were, but was saying things that made no sense like the trick they did this morning in the ambulance that allowed them to time travel. I was kissing his head and telling him I loved him, and he said, “I want my wife. She should be here.” I asked him what his wife’s name was. He said, “Linda.” I said, “I’m Linda. I’m your wife and I love you with all my heart.” He answered, “Where is my wife?” I also reminded him that in June we will have been married for 57 years. He looked at me and said, “It’s not long enough.”

Brian and I stopped for chocolate drinks on the way home. Brian knew I was upset. I told him the “Brian and chocolate are the cures for everything.”

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I’m going to dive into painting a sketch this afternoon. I hope you are also diving into something fun today.

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March 3, 2026 · 9:38 pm

Wednesday 3-4-2026

This is my latest painted sketch. I also sketched some new thank you cards for Khun Nong yesterday. I’ll share them when they are painted.

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Nation Thailand

Brian and I actually caught a glimpse of the blood moon this morning on our way to the gym. What a glorious sight! Usually, I would get all excited about one of these spectacular events when we lived in the States, and then our weather was cloudy, rainy, or some other problem interfered. This was stunningly beautiful. It was just above the trees and we stopped for a minute or two to simply enjoy.

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I had my windows open this morning and Brian texted me, telling me that the air was unhealthy today. I checked my Chiang Mai Air Pollution Real-Time website and the reading was 120, well into the unhealthy range. I closed everything up and turned on the air filters. It doesn’t look bad outside, but I will monitor things more carefully to try to make sure my lungs are not affected. The ‘hot and hazy’ season lasts from March through April in Chiang Mai.

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When we visited my husband at the nursing home yesterday, we saw the tree outside his window sporting THESE! A nice bunch of Thai bananas. The Thai bananas are small and shorter than the ones in the States, but they taste so much better! The ones in the states can be prettier when you see them in the stores, but they may be essentially tasteless. These are full of sweet flavor. I just love them. My husband will share in a nice treat soon!

Also on the way to the nursing home I saw a man walking across the street with two large transparent bags full of several beautiful kinds of salad stuff. Lot of different types of lettuce. He was walking toward one of the food stores, so my assumption is that he will sell his harvest of the day to the food store, which will provide beautiful produce for their customers. No middle men. Just goodness changing hands.

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I wish you a fun-filled day.

“In March winter is holding back and spring is pulling forward. Something holds and something pulls inside of us too.”
― Jean Hersey

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March 3, 2026 · 2:55 am

Tuesday 3-3-2026

“Burrowing Owl”– Brian – @balail.bsky.social

I LOVE this owl! Isn’t he handsome?

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Brian has been teaching me about Thai money. Both the paper money and the coins are clearly marked, once you know what to look for – particularly on the coins.

The paper money is all different colors, making it easy to see what you have quickly. It comes in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 500 baht. (Maybe more, but I haven’t seen any higher.)

The coins are a bit harder when you need glasses to see things up close. 🤓 They come in demonations of 1, 5, and 10 baht most commonly.

After Brian’s kind lesson, I can tell which is what on the coins. My biggest problem at this point is having to use the calculator on my phone when I’m in a place like the 7-11 buying several things, making sure I have enough money to pay at the register, plus figuring out how much money I’m really spending (comparing baht to U.S. dollars) There are roughly 35 baht to a dollar, so again I’m using my calculator to figure out how much something costs.

One thing I really like about Thailand is that you aren’t faced with trying to figure out sales tax at the checkout. The price shown is the price you pay. Period. I know that money has to come from somewhere for roads and city projects, etc., but I haven’t figured that out yet.

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Today I sketched out 4 more thank you cards for my housekeeper, Khun Nong. I try to stay ahead so I always have one to include with her pay each week. I’m simply thrilled to have her, and I want to make sure that she knows how much I appreciate what she does for me. (The one above is the one for Friday)

I also started painting a rabbit today. I’ll probably finish him up tomorrow.

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We visited my husband, Harvey, at the nursing home this morning. He was calm, comfortable, and was being well taken care of. He was glad to see us, though he called me, “Momma,” when I went in, wanting me to put his socks on him. He made almost no sense today, announcing that he had killed one of his “abductors” today, and that he had 7 or 8 wives now, but couldn’t remember the exact number…

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Make this a wonderful day and evening.

“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!’”
― Robin Williams

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March 1, 2026 · 11:20 pm

Monday, 3-2-2026

“Quietude” – PaulJWillson.bky.social

I absolutely LOVE this painting. It’s calming, mesmerising. I want to take a walk in there, find a spot to sit, and simply breathe…

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My husband, Harvey’s, nurse sent a video to Brian this morning showing Harvey up and in a wheelchair in the community room! The nurses were playing music and obviously trying to get the people to clap in time to the music. Harvey was actually trying to do it, even though I have NEVER seen him do ANYTHING in time to music before. Amazing and encouraging. 🙏🏻🎶

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This is my newest painted sketch.

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Brian texted me this morning, asking me to go through a Thai used bookstore list and see if there were any books I wanted him to order for me. I found two Nora Roberts books I didn’t remember, a book all about Thailand, and a book about sketching.

He could order all of them except the sketching book, but went on Amazon, found it, and ordered it! I can’t wait to dive into it!

My son is spoiling me terribly. Soon I will be completely insufferable…

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I hope Mother Nature is starting to smile at least in your direction now. I think everyone has had more than enough winter now and think that spring weather, planting, and outside activities should be starting. Hopefully, she’ll get the memo we sent soon!

“March is a tomboy with tousled hair, a mischievous smile, mud on her shoes, and a laugh in her voice.”
― Hal Borland

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February 28, 2026 · 9:09 pm

Sunday 3-1-2026

YouTube

“March bustles in on windy feet and sweeps my doorstep and my street.”
― Susan Reiner

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It is strange to be welcoming March and Spring from Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai has three main seasons: a cool, dry season (Nov–Feb) perfect for tourism; a hot season (March–May) with high temperatures and air pollution; and a rainy “green” season (June–Oct). 

The Old Farmer’s Almanac

When I lived in the States in Arkansas, March meant a long-awaited Spring. It could snow up to and including my birthday on the 9th, but then a glorious time of warmer weather followed with my itchiness to plant new flowers in my planters to go with the perennial ones, and getting my raised-bed, square foot garden started.

Taipei Times

March here in Chiang Mai starts a season of HOT and accompanying air pollution from Thailand and surrounding countries burning crop residue in preparation for planting. The sun becomes very intense and a lot of people use an umbrella to avoid sunburn, which you can get pretty quickly this time of year. When Brian and I are out walking, we take care to stay in the shade as much as possible.

I check the Chiang Mail Air Pollution Real-Time website daily now to monitor air before opening my windows.

Right now, before the season gets in full swing, I’m enjoying having my windows open, a beautiful cool breeze coming through with bright sunshine. It’s 78 degrees F. as I type, and it’s supposed to get to 91 this afternoon. When it starts to warm up significantly, I’ll close up, turn my air filters back on, and probably start the a/c.

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FirstCry

I have just started painting one of my sketches this morning. It’s celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. It will go up on the “Happy Wall” in my husband’s room in the nursing home at the proper time. I’ll post a picture of it, probably tomorrow, and then the painting will go on my shelf under some books to flatten it until it’s time to take it.

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Have a wonderful start to a new month!

“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.”
― Charles Dickens

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February 28, 2026 · 1:36 am

Saturday 2-28-2026

victoryroad.com

I love the optimism in this. Whether it’s true or not, or whether or not you achieve what you’re striving for, it’s the STRIVING and ATTITUDE that are important. Don’t give up on yourself or stop reaching for more.

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This was what awaited me when I returned from sharing dinner with Brian last night. Khun Nong not only left my place spotless, she brought flowers and left this arrangement for me to enjoy. I have never had a housekeeper before. It just wasn’t affordable in our home in Arkansas. I’m beginning to think I may never be able to talk about my housekeeper without being in awe about the whole thing. What a beautiful luxury. AND I won the lottery on housekeepers. When I say “spotless,” that includes washing the windows inside and out, baseboards, floors, kitchen and bath, lining up all my stuff more neatly than I ever leave it…. AND she brings me flowers.

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“Watercolor Dreams” by R. G. Ryan – Book 1 of the Jake Moriarity Series

Brian and I went to visit my husband, Harvey, at the nursing home today. When we walked into his room, he was reading! He didn’t want to talk to us because he wanted to finish the book!!! This is my voracious reader husband acting ‘normal’ for the first time since last April when he had his stroke. We sat and propped up the book a bit for him while he finished the book. Then he asked if there was another one in the series. We have now ordered the 2nd book, “Finding Wonderland” by R.G. Ryan, for him.

He was calm and comfortable, so that was good, as well. He told us he had gotten married (AGAIN!) since we saw him Tuesday. This was a different woman than the one he was going to marry Tuesday. He said he married her, but this was a different one. Couldn’t remember her name…

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everymum

After I finish writing posts for the blog today, I plan to do some painting, plus work on my puzzle. Pretty nice day

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Some of you have another day of February left, but we in Thailand are bidding February adieu here today. I’m hoping that spring is coming to the states very soon now. If I were there, I would be planning my spring raised-bed, square foot veggie garden now, plus deciding what I would add to our planters all around the house for the spring and summer. I hope you do it for me, if you enjoy doing that…

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February 26, 2026 · 11:22 pm

Friday 2-27-2026

“Walk Around the Lake” – Wallace Stevens-Patrick Visser – Substack

I love this painting. I want to GO here….

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Quora

I just returned from a WONDERFUL massage. Ahhhhhhhh! All my sore spots, kinks, and tension are gone, thanks to Khun Weaw, my massage therapist. She knows just how much to do without hurting me. I can fully relax. Such a gift.

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Freepik

I continue my day of being totally spoiled rotten here by going to the cafe this afternoon while my housekeeper, Khun Nong, makes my place sparkle. I have the sheets changed, the trash collected and taken out, fresh towels up, money and thank you card waiting.

I am looking forward to doing some sketching this afternoon. The sleepy rabbit yesterday was my last sketch in my book, so I need to get my pencil hot today and see what I can do. I’m also in the middle of J.D. Robb’s “Stolen In Death” book on my Kindle, so I’ll read a bit of that, as well. Fingers crossed I have my seat by the window so I can be amazed, once again, that the traffic, which looks completely chaotic to me, flows so well with everyone knowing what they’re doing. I think the thing that amazes me the most is all the motorcycles and motor scooters zipping in and around the vehicles at what looks like break neck speed.

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Delish

Do any of you remember the old Wendy’s Hamburgers commercials in the states years ago? They featured people trying to eat a hamburger, taking a bite of the incredibly thick, juicy burger, then putting it down while they used yet another napkin from a thick pile to clean up their faces, then did it all over and over again.

That’s the way Brian and I are on the mornings we eat a breakfast burrito. It’s scrambled eggs, bacon and salad wrapped up in a tortilla. It is absolutely delicious, but it’s one of those things, like corn on the cob, where you really shouldn’t eat it in public. You take a bite, and – if you’re lucky – get maybe one more bite before it starts to leak badly all over your hands. Each bite gets ‘stuff’ all over your face. I end up putting mine down and using my knife and fork to finish it. Brian, being a do-or-die sort, finishes his, then goes and practically takes a shower in the spray thingie in his kitchen sink…

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Seattle Green Cleaning Fairy

I’m going to enjoy another hour of glorious breezes here with my windows open before closing up and turning on the air filters again. The air pollution chart says ‘moderate,’ but I want things to be really comfortable for Khun Nong while she’s cleaning. I’ll close up and turn on the a/c.

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Enjoy your day or evening. I hope you’re smiling and sharing that smile with someone else. They’re contagious, you know… 😁

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February 25, 2026 · 2:35 am

Wednesday 2-25-2026

http://www.layersofink.blogspot.com

The world is a serious place these days with awful things happening to good people. We care what is going on, but we can feel swamped by negative feelings if we aren’t careful. Being curious, learning, expanding our world instead of allowing it to implode gradually, and PLAYING – seeing the humor in situations, the fun to be had each and every day, will not only allow us to survive, but thrive. What will you do that will bring a smile to your face today?

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This is my latest painted sketch.

I’m having a gloriously quiet day today. I’ve been painting, plus reading a bit, and now writing blog posts. I’m lucky I have so many fun things to do and not enough time to get everything I want to IN!

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House Digest

I had my windows open this morning. The temperature is now 81 degrees and it’s pretty windy. It’s cloudy, as well. I opened all the windows and gloried in the beautiful breeze for quite awhile. Since the ‘hazy season’ seems to be on its way, I’m keeping an eye on the Chiang Mail Air Pollution Real-Time Monitor so I close up and turn on the air filters in my place before I have any problems. (The haze is caused by farmers here and in neighboring countries burning the crop residue to clear their fields for the coming planting season.)

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Adobe Stock

I will start looking for images I can draw for a picture for my husband for St. Patrick’s Day. He seems to enjoy it when I bring these, and the nursing home is very kind in letting me put them up on the wall so he can see them, that I will try to plaster his wall with love every chance I get.

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The Today Show

I hope those of you getting snow and ice are able to stay warm and dry and safe. I keep sending messages to Mother Nature, but I think she has her hands over her ears.

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Have a great day. Find something fun!

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February 24, 2026 · 1:34 am

Tuesday 2-24-2026

Stephanie Izzo Photography-via Zen to Zany

I love this philosophy of life. We are all caterpillars, trying to make our way, figure out who we are, crawling, then putting one foot in front of the other doing the best we can with what we have at the time, hoping for the best. If we’re lucky, we emerge knowing who we truly are, what is important, what we want to shed, and what we want to keep as we prepare to fly.

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An exciting thing happened today. I received my very first piece of mail in my mailbox since I moved here the 1st of April! They have recently redone the whole mailbox thing in our building, making boxes that spring open when you touch them. I’ve checked mine every day, just because there is that small bit of anticipation that something MIGHT be there. Today there was a card from a dear friend from the states. It was mailed on Feb. 9th and didn’t get here until this morning, Feb 24th, but it got here!

He had painted this to honor the Chinese New Year, “The Year of the Horse.” It is up on my wall beside my computer now so that I can enjoy it daily.

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Brian and I visited my husband, Harvey, at the nursing home this morning. He was happy to see us, and greeted me with “Hi, Babe,” – music to my ears. Things deteriorated from there, I’m afraid, but we take and treasure what we can get. His new nurse is a young, very pretty lady whose name is Pim (pronounced “Peem.”) I hope she will stay. She is treating Harvey very well. He was comfortable today and not coughing at all, so that was a plus, as well.

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My painting is still hanging on the wall today after the guys came and figured out a different, hopefully more secure way to hang it. The place I want the painting to hang is brick-covered-by-concrete and is a major wall of the building, so hanging things there is more complex than the usual drive-a-nail-into-the-wall, or drill-a-hole-and-put-in-a-screw, or put an el-cheapo stickup thing on the wall, so I’m hopeful I won’t hear any more crashes in the middle of the night. This painting is the embodiment of what Thailand looks like on a typical small ‘soi’ or avenue off a main street. I love the black and white of the infrastructure and the vivid colors of the tuk-tuk and the colorful shops, flowers and people at the bottom, giving life to the painting. The place it’s hanging is like it was made for it. 😁

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I’m hoping to be able to spend time in my art alcove today. My paints are calling to me – “Linnnnnnnnn-daaaaaaaaah.” Can you hear them?

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I hope that you are enjoying your day or evening. (Trying to figure out the time and difference between where I am and where you are is hopelessly confusing to me. Daylight Savings Time coming up will only confuse this poor lady more… )

Find a reason to smile.

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February 23, 2026 · 3:28 am

Monday 2-23-2026

Tina Ann

I can’t imagine my life without music. I sing, I play, I dance, I listen. EVERY. DAY.

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All 6 blooms have opened! Hooray!!!!!

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My two latest painted sketches

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I love the chat part of my phone. I just talked to a dear friend/relative-by-marriage, catching up after a bit. My heart is full. She is such a wonderful lady. The only thing missing was being able to hug her neck. I love you, Murray.

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My painting fell off the wall in the middle of the night a few nights ago. I got up and looked all around, but couldn’t find anything. The next morning I saw the painting had fallen, tearing the stick-on thingie and part of the wall paint with it. The painting is fine, thank goodness.

Brian and a friend are coming to see what we can do to hang it up more securely. Hopefully drill a small hole and put a screw in. We’ll see.

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I hope that your day is a good one, and that you’re not in the path of the snowy stuff today and tomorrow.

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February 21, 2026 · 2:56 am

Saturday 2-21-2026

@cristy7475.bsky.social

This image just grabbed me and made me smile.

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Storyblocks

Yesterday afternoon was satisfying for me. We went to the cafe to get out of my housekeeper’s way while she cleaned. I always take my sketchbook, my Kindle, and my sweatshirt. I am always delighted when “my spot” at the front of the cafe is vacant because that means that I can watch the traffic going past.

Yesterday I saw two examples of how crazy the traffic in Chiang Mai is –

Shutterstock – similar to what I saw.

A man walked past with his bicycle. That doesn’t sound like much, except that his bicycle was his ‘store.’ He had a gazillion or so different kinds of brooms tied to his bicycle in all directions and could still ride it. He would stop if someone showed interest, sell them a broom, and go on his way…

    Storypick – again similar

    A motorcycle motored past with a man on the front, a woman on the back, and their three kids and a dog in the middle!

      This all in the middle of two lanes in each direction of cars, buses, trucks, tuk-tuks, motorcycles, motor scooters, and then pedestrians on both sides of the street, and ones trying to cross the street. No street lights close by, no crosswalks – it’s simply fascinating to watch – not to mention all the different nationalities of people and all the different modes of dress…

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      I only did two sketches yesterday, but I think they may be the best I have done since I started trying to teach myself to draw. I’ll show you when I get them painted, but I had a GREAT time with them.

      Then I’m in the middle of the 62nd (I think) J.D. Robb/Nora Roberts “In Death” series book on my Kindle. I try not to allow myself to read very much because I get caught up and the whole afternoon is gone, or I read past my bedtime. I’ve already ordered the next one which is due out in September.

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      The very best part of our afternoon was that my son came into the cafe (I thought he had gone to the bathroom) carrying a sack of flowers! This is the first time he has ever given me flowers and I almost lost it right in the middle of the cafe. These are wreath-type shapes of small white flowers on a ribbon with a ‘fish’ fashioned from palm type leaves handing under it, and then two more flowers hanging below that. A lot of the GRAB drivers have this type of thing hanging from their mirrors and they are just lovely. Brian got me SIX of these, two each of the different kind of flowers at the bottom. I have them hanging all around my place, and even my condo is grinning with happiness!

      ________________

      I hope you’ve had a great day or evening.

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      February 20, 2026 · 12:29 am

      Friday 2-20-2026

      This little guy says he wants to watch over us and keep us safe. I think we should give him a try. What do you think?

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      Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota

      I am loose as a goose after my massage this morning! Ahhhhh and ahhhhhh again. I am SO relaxed I could easily just sprawl on my couch and doze off. We are leaving soon, though, to get out of Khun Nong’s way while she makes my place shine, so no sleep for me.

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      Taipei Times

      It’s 87 degrees F. right now and quite sunny. I had the windows open this morning but actually closed up and turned on the a/c this afternoon for the first time since “The Cool Season” started several months ago. It looks like I won’t need my hoodie, jean jacket, and sweatshirts for much soon…

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      Kudos today to ML – a wonderful person, a dear friend, and my SIL! She helped Brian and me with a problem we could not solve here. THANKS, ML!

      🎶 You’re simply the best! 🎶

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      I hope you have had a wonderful day.

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      February 19, 2026 · 2:17 am

      Thursday 2-19-2026

      New haircut this morning – gone from ‘dandelion-gone-to-seed’ to ‘maybe-somebody-had-a-plan….’

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      We are now getting into my first ‘hot and hazy season’ here in Chiang Mai. It’s warming up, and the sun is getting more and more intense, but the big difference is that the farmers in this country and the countries around us (primarily Laos and Myanmar) are all burning the crop residue from their fields, getting ready for the next planting, so the air really gets full of smoke.

      I’ve been having my windows open every day, so apparently I am not one of the super sensitive people, but I will keep an eye on things. I have two good air purifiers in my place, so I should be in good shape. I can still open my windows early in the morning and then close up and turn on the air purifiers for the rest of the day.

      Apparently this is a real time air index chart, so I’ve bookmarked the site and saved it on my computer so I can stay on top of things.

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      Here is the sweet orchid my adoptive family gave me when I first moved in almost a year ago. From dropping all of its bloom and only having two leaves, It now has 4 big leaves and 4 blooms on it, with two buds left that might open. I’m thrilled that it has ‘come to life again.’

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      My current puzzle remains a challenge. The main part of the puzzle is a gorgeous big turtle in the center. He will be the last to come together, though. I can only find some pieces that I know are pieces of him, but they don’t fit together. This may end up being a character-building exercise…

      But I LOVE the colors!

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      Newest painted sketch.

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      Senior Exercises with Meredith

      Today is exercises with water bottles for my arms and back. I will stop working at the computer now and do those and then come back and write another post.

      I hope you’re having a great day or evening!

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      February 17, 2026 · 10:43 pm

      Wednesday, 2-18-2026

      Brian-@balail.bsky.social

      This photography is so detailed it looks like a painting, doesn’t it?

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      I’ve been lazy this morning.

      We went to the gym, and then shared a breakfast burrito – chicken, avocado slices and salad wrapped up in a tortilla. YUM! My laundry is out drying on my balcony. Jets have been flying over this morning – not a usual occurrence – and they are quite loud, but it’s not enough to spoil my mood.

      The weather is really nice here, so I’ve been messing around on the computer while enjoying a combination of open windows, nice breeze, sunshine, and a fan. I keep closing my eyes and smiling, just enjoying this wonderful time. AHHHHHHHH!

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      Colorations – The Art of Learning

      I want to do some painting today. Yesterday was way too busy to even THINK about that, so today I’ll enjoy trying to make up for lost time.

      Pinterest

      Yoga stretches are on tap for today. I have found myself making some excuses for not doing them, or my water bottle exercises in the mid afternoon on alternate days, so I’ll make a point of doing them earlier today.

      This is John Butler. My son, Brian, showed me this website last night after dinner. He says it’s a really good source for learning how to meditate. I have been spending several minutes each day just sitting quietly, feet on the floor, eyes closed, thinking about something I’m thankful for. I would like to expand that, and this might be a good source –

      It’s called, “The Common Sense Guide to Meditation (Part 1) – John Butler’s Simple Meditation Method.” I’m going to listen to it tonight. I thought you might be interested in checking it out, too.

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      I’m seeing that winter weather will raise its head again across much of the U.S. this weekend. I hope that you are able – if your weather is being cooperative now – to be able to get out for a bit and enjoy the reprieve…

      Stay safe and warm.

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      February 17, 2026 · 2:43 am

      Tuesday, 2-17-2026

      Latest painted sketch

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      We had the busy morning I talked about yesterday, got through it all, and lived to tell about it! HOOORAAAY! 😁

      I walked my mile on the treadmill at the gym. I don’t know how to really ‘describe’ the differences I’m feeling – other than not having to hold onto the handle bars any more without falling on my head. The best way I can describe it is that I’m feeling my stomach muscles working for the first time in years and years. I feel looser in my ‘core,’ now and it feels GOOD to be walking – not having to concentrate so hard on not listing to the right or the left or having to ‘correct’ for balance issues so hard. 💪🏻

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      Small Door Veterinary

      I took a quick shower, dressed for the rest of the day, and we grabbed a GRAB (Uber type transformation) to go for my routine doctor’s appointment. I had dreaded it because the last time the lady took my blood for labs, it HURT and I ended up with a fairly impressive hematoma that lasted several days before just becoming a bruise and fading. This time she didn’t hurt me (Yea!) and I only have a small bruise.

      The first time I went to this doctor was in May after we got my husband settled at the nursing home. We found my blood pressure to be sky high – they took my pressure several times, then got me meds to give me right there at the clinic so I wouldn’t stroke out. She suggested that I continue my efforts to lose the lard, be serious about taking the blood pressure medicine she prescribed, and exercise.

      I am now taking half a blood pressure pill daily and it’s keeping me under good control. Since that first checkup, I have lost 35+ pounds (90 pounds in the past two years) and am doing yoga stretches and water bottle exercises on alternate days in addition to the daily treadmill, plus using the stairs here at the condo building when reasonable.

      I should get the official results in the next couple of days. I’m hoping to get much improved numbers.

      Something that made me the happiest – I am finally maturing as an adult (I know, you’re rolling your eyes and saying, “It’s about TIME!”) – but I figured out that I was wanting to see the doctor to have her give me kudos in my efforts to follow her advice. Now I don’t need that! I am happy inside MYSELF that I am trying to take better care of myself. I feel better than I have in a long time. I’m continuing to watch what I eat and my portions. I will continue trying to add to my regimen of moving my body more as I can tolerate it. 🙏🏻

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      Harem – Wikipedia

      After the doctor appointment, we went to visit my husband, Harvey, at the nursing home. His new nurse is very young and incredibly sweet. I don’t know her name yet, but Brian said he would write the nursing home and find out.

      This was a very strange visit. Harvey was comfortable and in a good mood. He greeted us with the fact that he was going to be married again today. He couldn’t tell us the name of the woman he was going to marry. When I remarked that he had quite a harem now, he kind of smirked and said he couldn’t remember how many he had now or their names. He said he had 8 0r 9 children, but couldn’t remember their names, either. Brian described himself, and Harvey turned to look at him, but couldn’t come up with his name. When I told him I still wanted to be his #1 wife, he didn’t answer, so I might be being replaced….

      I took him “Watercolor Dreams” by RG Ryan, one of the series of books I love now. He listened as I described the main character, a man my husband would identify with, and he looked interested. Hopefully, he’ll get into it later and get hooked, as I did.

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      Chelsea’sMessyApron.com

      We got back home around noon. My stomach had decided my throat had been cut. It had been since 5:30 yesterday since I had eaten. Brian had ordered half a chicken salad sandwich with avocado slices to be waiting for me when we got home – thereby saving my life. 🥪

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      NBC News

      I’m now up from a short nap, trying to get my act together for the rest of the day. I’ve retrieved part of my laundry from my drying rack on the balcony. I got my clothes from the laundry as we got home, so that is all under control now.

      Our housekeeper is cleaning Brian’s condo this afternoon, so he will come to my place this evening, bringing dinner. We’ll back up my phone and computer data and then both of us will probably crash early.

      A good day, all in all. I hope that you have had an enjoyable day or evening.

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      February 15, 2026 · 10:35 pm

      Monday 2-16-2026

      My latest painted sketches

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      123RF

      Tomorrow may be a really busy day for us – making my hair blow. First, the gym. Then, instead of breakfast, we’ll go to my routine doctor appointment with labwork, followed by a visit to see Harvey at the nursing home. I will pick up my laundry. Brian goes to the cafe because Khun Nong will be cleaning his place and he will bring dinner to my place, and we’ll back up my computer and phone data while he’s here. I don’t know if we’ll have time to cram in some food before dinner or not…

      So, I will make every effort to write to you, but can’t make any promises. Too much depends on timing 😳

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      I wish you a quiet day – whether you’re finishing up Sunday evening or starting Monday morning. One step at a time.

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      February 12, 2026 · 11:45 pm

      Friday 2-13-2026

      Tracy Chrest – @tracychrest989204 on Substack

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      This lucky lady enjoyed getting a massage this morning, and is smiling as she types, not hurting ANYWHERE. 🤗

      I do have one, teeny, tiny gripe about the obtuseness of other people – a couple came in while Khun Weaw was working her magic on me. They were loud, totally unmindful that anyone else was there, or didn’t care. There were several times when there were things banging as accommodations were apparently being made for both of them to have adjoining pallets to have massages simultaneously. The lady who has subbed for Khun Weaw was handling one and the owner of the massage place was handling the other. They wouldn’t be in a position to tell customers to be quieter or mindful of the relaxation of others, but it’s my opinion that you shouldn’t have to be ‘told’ something as simple courtesy and paying attention. – End of gripe.

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      Brian and I will go to the cafe soon to get out of the way while Khun Nong makes my place shine. I’m eager to do more sketching while I’m there. I’m also in the middle of one of my Jake Moriarity series books by R. G. Ryan, so I can dive into that. ✍🏼 📕 I’m hoping I get my window seat so that I can watch the insane traffic for a while. 🤣

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      Shout out to Lisa Richey, a very talented, lovely lady who is experiencing increased health challenges right now. I’m trying to send warmth, relief, and love in her direction.

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      Kudos to Team USA in the Milan Cortina Olympics! I’m having real trouble actually watching the competition since I live in Thailand – but I’m following the news as much as I can. At today’s reading, the USA has won 4 gold medals, 7 silver medals, and 3 bronze medals. HOORAY!

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      Have a wonderful day. Don’t forget to include something FUN in your day – even if it’s just for a few minutes.

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