Tag Archives: happiness quote

Saturday 4-11-2026

These are my latest painted sketches.

We went to visit my husband in the nursing home this morning. This was not one of the better visits, so when we got home. we regrouped and went over to the cafe. I relaxed, drank a mocha, and did some sketching. I’m now back home, trying catch up for the day.

We have one more day before we will be in self-imposed hibernation due to the celebration of Songkran here Monday through Wednesday of next week. (More about Songkran in another post) We are finishing stockpiling supplies so that we don’t have to go out after tomorrow, except for the gym, which we’re hoping is early enough to avoid a problem.

It’s officially 100 degrees here this afternoon – due to get to 101. The Chiang Mai Air Pollution Real Time index says it’s in the unhealthy range, so the windows have remained close and my a/c off an on, with fans to get a comfortable temperature in my place.

I’m officially at 50.90 kgs this morning (112.215 lbs.) this morning, so almost to my goal of 110. I’m within the ballpark of where I want to be, so I’m just watching my portions, rather than worrying about carbs, fats, or anything else. My eyeballs are floating with all the water I’m drinking, and I’m exercising every afternoon in addition to walking at the gym each morning. Brian says he notices that I’m stronger and steadier at little things, such as being able to stand still in the hot while we’re waiting for our Grab to arrive to take us someplace.

I got a laugh yesterday out of the alternate massage therapist, Khun Sulee, after she finished getting all the kinks out of me. I showed her this picture –

I put the phone beside my face and then pointed from the phone to me and back, then pointed to my legs and back. She finally got it and we both laughed. The resemblence is pretty amazing, except I’m not as cute.

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Friday 4-10-2026

An example of the wonderful flowering bushes around here!

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The day got away from me, so I’m writing my blog posts late today.

Today we did our gym session, I had a glorious massage, and then we did some stocking up for the Festival that starts Monday (more on that tomorrow) and spent the afternoon at the cafe – with me sketching and reading, and watching the traffic. We just finished sharing dinner.

We will visit Harvey tomorrow. I hope that we can brighten his day.

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Starting next week, Khun Nong, my wonderful housekeeper, will go home for a visit. She contacted Brian this past week, asking if it were okay if her sister took her place on cleaning until she returns. Brian answered that if she trusts her sister, we will, too.

I already shared with you that Brian insisted I take the flowers she left for Brian Tuesday to my place.

This is what she left today –

She saved the flowers that were still good from Brian’s bouquet.

She started a new plant and left it in my art alcove.

And this was on my dining area table.

Needless to say, my place was also spotless. The woman is absolutely amazing. I am SO, SO spoiled now. I have never had help in the house before and to have this be my introduction to what a truly first class housekeeper does is beyond words. I’m simply speechless and so grateful.

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I mainly did sketching today, but I hope to be able to share a new painted sketch with you tomorrow.

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Thursday 4-9-2026

Two new painted sketches from yesterday.

We’re planning to spend some time at the cafe today, so this afternoon will be nice, as well.

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Brian just ordered this new puzzle for me today! I think this Cheetah is stunning and I love the way he stands out from the background.

I’m finally making enough progress now that I’ve decided I WILL live long enough to finish the gorgeous turtle puzzle, though he’s still being coy about emerging, and would like to have another puzzle I’m excited about waiting in the wings.

If you’ll look carefully, the part in the low center that looks like someone lost their dinner is actually the stomach of the beautiful turtle – anchored by his foot between the red fish and the blue fish. His beautiful head will probably be the last thing to show itself…

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pattaya.holidayinn.com

Brian and I are stocking up on supplies a bit for the Songkran Celebration next week. It’s the 13-15th (this coming Monday through Wednesday) and is Thailand’s largest celebration of the year, proclaiming a new year, washing away of bad luck, bringing new luck for the coming year. They are selling machine gun looking water guns and the young people are all gearing up to hose anything that moves outside if they haven’t already dumped a bucket of water on the people below.

There are 4 classes of humans who are NOT supposed to get hosed: monks, old people, babies, and pregnant women. Tourists, just out to have fun, routinely ignore rules, and some who DO know the rules simply get caught up and ‘forget.’ We plan to keep a very low profile, going out as little as possible through the middle of the week, although we will try to get to the gym and we will plan to visit Harvey at the nursing home on Tuesday. Maybe I can see something out my window…

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Freepik

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Wednesday 4-8-2026

Khun Nong cleaned Brian’s place yesterday and left him these flowers. He showed them to me this morning, said, “You like flowers more than I do,” and insisted I take these home with me. He didn’t have to twist my arm. They are sitting in splendor on my dining area table now. 🤗

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We went to the gym this morning with no repeat of the biting treadmill handlebars. Brian is truly enjoying every minute of teasing me about it, saying things like, “Wow. It’s been 5 minutes and you haven’t punched anyone or anything,” or “It’s good to know you have now renounced violence.” 💪🏻

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Freepik

I’ve been painting one of my sketches this morning. I should be able to finish it sometime day. I am hoping Brian will invite me to go to the cafe with him this afternoon. On Fridays we have to stay until Khun Nong finishes. The other days I go I can leave after a couple of hours and finish up things at my place, take a nap if I want to before dinner, or whatever else occurs to me. This adds a nice touch to my day and I love it.

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Yogalishes Ana

I’m going to finish this post and then do my yoga stretches for the day before they get lost in the shuffle.

MsgWords.com

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Tuesday 4-7-2026

This is my latest painted sketch. I tried to get the ‘flavor’ of the concrete power pole plus all the power and Internet lines. I’m so in awe of the ingenuity of the Thai people for figuring out a system that would work for them in this huge, growing city with constantly changing needs, repairs, new lines or additions needed, etc. I o got to watch a power crew working one day. Some men were on the ground. Others were in the back of a pickup truck, climbing a bamboo ladder from the bed. They had minimal tool belts, passing equipment and tools from man to man up and down while they CAREFULLY did whatever they were doing. To say it’s a dangerous job is an understatement. To do it routinely in the middle of heavy traffic with people walking all over the place is simply mind boggling.

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training/smashrun.com

We had an amazing sight last night. I had just gotten to my place after sharing dinner with Brian and he texted me to “look out the window.’ I don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say there were 75 to 100 runners in black and white running gear running down the street. Bri thinks they were doing it to advertise something, but we don’t really know. I watched the group run past for at least 5 minutes before the incredible sight finished.

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This is one part of the Koi Pond that I visit on a regular basis to talk to ‘my’ fish. I think they are spectacular. The ‘pond’ is in an out-of-the-way strip or center. It is covered and there are chairs and tables. Someone takes meticulous care of the fish, the pond, and the surroundings. Brian and I think the largest fish are about 24 inches long by 5 or 6 inches across. There are babies in there, as well. It seems to ME that each one of the fish is different. It’s shady and quiet there. A perfect spot to drink in the beauty of Chiang Mai and relax.

This is one of the several real mosaic tables here. Isn’t it wonderful!

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We visited my husband, Harvey, at the nursing home today. He was more coherent than he is many times. He looked at my painting of the power lines and said they should sag more. I told him I loved him and he said, “I want a Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra phone.” I mumbled something and we went on. He can’t control the remote on the TV. He can’t use a phone, has bad Parkinson’s Disease, doesn’t know where he is, doesn’t know our phone number. He wants it so that when he thinks of something, he can call or text me. He wants to order things from Amazon. OH GOOOOOOD!!!!!!! Other than that, we had a pretty good visit today.

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Today our wonderful housekeeper cleans at Brian’s place, so he will head to the cafe. We’ve started a new thing the past few days. He texts me when he gets to the cafe and then I usually join him, grabbing my art bag so I can sketch. I like this better than him ordering me a mocha and me going downstairs to retrieve it, bringing it back to my place. It gives me a chance to get out more, have the joy of sketching at the cafe – in my favorite spot or not – and a break in my day. We’ll do this today, then bring an ordered dinner up to my place this evening. We use Tuesdays as a day to back up the data on my phone and my computer after we have eaten, and then to just enjoy some good conversation

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My other name should be “Ms. Clutz.” Today at the gym, one of Brian’s friends passed by the window as we were walking on our treadmills. I reached up to wave, and hit the back of my hand on the underside of the treadmill handle bars. I thought when I did it, I would have a bruise. What I didn’t realize at first was the treadmill ‘bit’ me. There was something sharp under there that opened my skin enough to bleed quite a bit. We were almost finished with our walk, so I just covered it with a kleenex until we got home. Now Brian is having a field day kidding me about punching out inanimate objects….

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Monday 4-6-2026

pngtree

HAPPY EASTER! I hope you had a beautiful celebration.

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It’s Monday here, so Brian and I have been to the gym, 💪🏻 shared breakfast 🍳 and taken my clothes 🧺 to an alternate laundry because our regular place is closed.

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Pond5

We have a quiet day. I’m going to TRY to get over my intimidation about starting the 2nd Thai street sketch today. The focus is going to be the power poles and power lines that make everything work here. If I can get the pole halfway right, then I think I can do the sketch….

Yesterday I joined Brian at the cafe when he texted me he was working there. Being the incredibly nice man that he is, he put his backpack in my spot to ‘reserve’ it while he met me and made sure I got there all right. So I got to watch the traffic that simply awes me, saw lots of pretty women in big hats to ward off the sun, and galked at the amazing traffic that everyone takes for granted here while drinking a delicious iced mocha and sketching.

He mentioned he might work there again some this afternoon. I’m hoping he texts me and invites me to join him again. ✍🏼

Animal Wellness Magazine

I have my yoga mat set up so that when I finish this first post, I’ll do my stretching like a good girl 👍 👏🏻

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Easter Sunday 4-5-2026

internalmedicine.wustl.edu

I wish you a beautiful Easter – whether you are celebrating today, as we are hear in Thailand, or whether this is ‘early’ and you will. be celebrating tomorrow.

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Easter is not widely celebrated in Thailand, since most of the people are Buddhist. I am full of wonderful memories of celebrating Easter as I grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

I particularly remember getting some new, fancier clothes to wear to church. One year stands out in particular. My mom got me a pale pink angora sweater and a skirt that was tweed, bringing out the same pink contrasted with a pale grey. I felt like an angel in that outfit!

I loved the Easter church service, as well. We children would walk down the center aisle singing a hymn. When we reached the front, we would fan out and sing a second hymn, and then file out again with a third. We felt like such a special part of the celebration to be included that way. There was an organist who played every Sunday. My heart would fill when I heard her play. And then we all settled to listen to the sermon. Our minister had a deep, resonant voice that simply filled the room, making you want to hear every word. He kept his sermons simple, real, and everyone recognized the truth and wisdom he spoke. I can still hear his voice as he ended each sermon, his voice almost making the walls expand in the huge space, the sanctuary filled to the brim with listeners, saying, “AMEN!” The music would fill the room again as we all filed out, hoping to get one more word with him as we thanked him for his sermon. Such a beautiful, beautiful memory.

This church is in Tulsa. My Harvey and I were married in this church by that same minister. He performed our daughter’s funeral. Our daughter’s ashes are spread in the memorial garden to the side of the church where roses bloom in profusion much of the year. He performed the funerals of my mother and father. The minister is gone now, but he will have a special place in my heart forever.

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Wakefieldpetvet.com

I opted out of going to the gym this morning. I didn’t sleep well, had a bad charley-horse last night, and my blood pressure and blood oxygen readings were low this morning for some unknown reason. I texted Brian, slept an hour more, shared a delicious breakfast with him, and now feel fine. We are planning to meet at the cafe this afternoon, just to get out a bit. He’ll work on his computer and I’ll take my art bag so I can sketch.

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The only adverse effects I’m having from the air pollution “Hot and Hazy” season here so far is that my eyes are irritated and very dry. Yesterday Brian found some good eyedrops that are really helping. So I put in a couple of drops in each eye several times a day and I’m good to go!

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Country Living Magazine

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Saturday 4-4-2026

CeCe – @cece14.bsky.social

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We went to visit Harvey today. I put the Easter Bunny up on “Harvey’s Happy Wall” to remind him that we love him and think of him whether we are there with him or not.

He was a bit down today, but mostly made sense. We texted the manager after we left that Harvey was upset at all the sticking of his fingers for blood sugar tests. When we were in Arkansas we tested our blood twice a week because Harvey had diabetes (Type II) though he wouldn’t admit it, and I was pre-diabetic. He would have to stick his fingers two or three times because we couldn’t get enough blood to do the test. We had to tell the manager today that he was threatening to hurt the next person who tried to ‘torture’ him. She agreed to change the monitoring to once a week. Fingers crossed. Brian ordered French fries to be delivered this afternoon. We told him so he would have something to look forward to. Brian and I stopped for chocolate on the way home.

Update: the nursing home just sent Brian a video of Harvey enjoying his French fries. From his plate, it looks like the store sent him a note and a cookie extra. 😁

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Yesterday we spent much of the afternoon at the cafe to stay out of Khun Nong’s (my housekeeper’s ) way while she cleaned. I lucked out and got my preferred seat at the cafe by the front window. When my favorite server brought my mocha, I pointed to my art backpack – with the pouch he gave me for Christmas hanging from the clip on one side. I have used the pouch ever since he gave it to me, but he may not have noticed it lying beside the table. Anyway, his face lit up like a torch. He rushed away, then came back, wanting me to read something on is phone. It said, “I’m glad you liked the gift, Auntie!” and we smiled and bowed to each other. A really happy time for both of us.

While at the cafe, I took some photos that will help me with the new street sketch I want to try. This next one I want to emphasize the electrical system of power lines they have here. As with the first sketch, this one will take me quite a while to do…

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Friday 4-3-2026

“Sunset” – Michael Hall – @mhallarts.bsky.social

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Caroline Gardner

Today would have been my parents’ 85th wedding anniversary. My dad, who had an amazing sense of humor, wanted to get married on April Fool’s Day. My mom looked him in the eye and said, “I’m not foolin’.” They married in Chicago in 1941, had my brother and me, moved to Levittown NY. My dad had a chance to do the advertising for a company in Tulsa, Oklahoma when I was 5. We moved to Tulsa in 1952 when there was almost nothing there yet. I lived in the home they had built until Harvey and I got married in 1969. My dad had started a one-man advertising agency with my mom acting as an unpaid ‘do-everything-else-but-write-and-record-the-radio-ads’ person -ads that won The Silver Addy Award for Lifetime Achievement from the advertising community. They made a mark.

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This is my latest painted sketch.

I am now using one of the small backpacks we used to move here as my ‘Friday Pack.’ Every week I have crammed my carrier/tote full of what I needed for our afternoons at the cafe while Khun Nong cleans my place. I carried what wouldn’t fit in my carrier, trying not to drop or lose anything.

I had a “Duh!” moment when I figured out I could use the backpack, putting everything in it I wanted for Fridays at the cafe and just keep it packed. I’ve been working out of it this week and it’s working well. When we leave, I’ll just zip it up and carry it and my tote to the cafe! Sometimes it amazes me how long it takes me to figure out a solution to a ‘problem-I-didn’t-realize-I-had.’

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This is the reading of the air pollution index here now.

Yesterday it got my attention because the reading was 216 – into the ‘very unhealthy’ range. It has only been that high for that one day so far. I’ll just monitor things, keeping my windows closed and my air filters and a/c on.

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Pet Nurture

I got a massage this morning. Ahhhhhh! My regular therapist was back! With the magic of pantomime and determination, I figured out that Khun Weaw’s place was being remodeled, so she had to move EVERYTHING out, have the remodeling done, and then move EVERYTHING back in again. A lot of work!

She again mentioned my weight loss. I was able to show her the numbers on the calculator on my phone and pantomime, doctor/keeping my mouth shut/ and exercising.

I hugged her, and the nice lady, Khun Sulee, who substituted for her, today, thanking them for taking such good care of me.

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Good Housekeeping

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Wednesday 4-1-2026

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Sloth – Wikipedia

I opted out of going to the gym this morning. I got up and dressed as usual, but I didn’t sleep well last night for some reason and just felt ‘off,’ so I texted Brian and set my alarm, crawled under my throw on the couch and zonked out. ONE SECOND LATER, the alarm went off, showing me an hour had passed and it was time to get ready to share breakfast with Brian.

It’s very hazy outside and the air pollution website is saying it’s in the ‘unhealthy’ region, so we will stay inside, safe with our air filters and a/c for the day.

I will take it even easier than usual (is that even POSSIBLE? 😜 🤪 😂) and enjoy my day.

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Brian was unimpressed, but if you look just between the red fish and the blue fish in the lower center, just below the red fish’s mouth, you will see a tan/brown circular type shape. THAT IS THE MAJOR TURTLE’S FOOT!!!!!

In the upper right, just below the fish in the corner, you will see ‘THE EDGE OF HIS OPPOSITE ARM!!!!! These are the ONLY two spots the main focus of this puzzle is showing, but I’m excited that he is finally emerging.

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iStock

I’m trying to get started on a sketch totally outside my comfort zone today. I’m going to be TRYING to show the flavor of some of the shops in Chiang Mai, hoping to capture the creativity, uniqueness of them. Wish me luck. This will take me some time. I’ll probably switch to easier things and opt for doing something fun in the meantime – then going back to add a bit to the more serious sketch…

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Pinterest

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Tuesday 3-31-2026

“Quiescent” -@pauljwillson.bsky.social

I love the feelings this creates in me. Calming and dreamy.

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I painted 4 thank you cards for my housekeeper, Khun Nong, yesterday. My son and I talked about my doing this last night as we shared dinner. He thinks it’s a bit ‘weird’ that I leave a card for her each week, but added that he thought it was probably something she thought was nice. I told him that I don’t care if they all wind up in her trash can when she gets home. I just want her to know that I appreciate what she does for me each week and don’t take it for granted.

I have a sketch rattling around in my head today that I’m going to try to get started on this afternoon. It is totally outside my ‘comfort zone,’ but we’ll see what happens.

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Today’s visit to my husband at the nursing home was a bust. He was tired and not inclined to talk. He wanted to watch TV. We held his hands and did that. He watched with great attention although he doesn’t speak a word of Thai. When I kissed his head on leaving, he leaned into me and said, “Thanks for coming.” That lean and the 5 seconds made the trip worth it.

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Canva

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Sunday 3-29-2026

Tina Ann

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I’m having a super nice, quiet day so far.

I did my mile at the gym, ate breakfast with Brian, put my wash out on the drying rack on my balcony, and have been at the computer, catching up on email and doing a bit of research.

It’s hazy this morning, so my windows are closed and air filters on, but it’s light enough to flood my little condo with light and lift my spirits. I plan to at least start painting one of my sketches today and work on my puzzle. (I’m finally making more progress.)

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Shout outs to Cathy and Nora today. They are both in tough situations. I’m sending my thoughts and prayers.

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I can’t tell you what a thrill it is to be able to walk into a store, be able to choose clothes you HOPE might be big enough, find they ARE – some even TOO big – and walk out of the store with some new clothes.

I’m grateful to Walmart for allowing me to cover my lard for several years, always having things that I KNEW would cover me. I’m even MORE grateful, now that I have lost 93 pounds, not to have to buy my clothes there now. I’m still “covering up” – though in much smaller sizes – but now because a Shar Pei dog looks like my sibling now.

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In my current status as ‘much-pampered-lady,’ I will enjoy the mocha that my son, Brian, orders for me when we’re home, rather than out for the day, and I will sip that with a smile as I start painting a sketch…

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Saturday 3-28-2026

Tina Ann

You’re never too old to have some fun!

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We visited my husband this morning. Most of the time he didn’t make any sense. We just each held a hand and listened, responding the best way we could. At the end of the visit, he wanted some French fries, so Brian arranged for some to be delivered. While I was kissing him goodbye, he said, “I spend half my days remembering how good our time together has been.” I lost it. Harvey’s nurse kindly sent us a video we saw on our way home, showing him eating the fries and saying they were ‘good.’

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LOSING THE LARD PROGRESS REPORT for March –

Giphy

I am 5’4″ tall (and shrinking). As of this morning, I have lost 93 pounds (down from 205 to 112) and 87.7 inches. I am 2 pounds away from my maintenance weight goal, after over two years of trying.

Kudos go to our son, who has been my gym buddy and who has helped me cut my portions on food intake and who has been my supporter since we moved to Chiang Mai last April. He has taken me to doctor appointments to establish a baseline and helped me with supplements to improve my health. And, with all this, he still manages to treat me to mochas or chocolate drinks in the afternoons to reward my efforts and keep me motivated.

I’m between 19 and 20 on the dreaded BMI chart finally, in the ‘healthy’ range. When I started two years ago, I was in the 35-36 area. ‘obese.’

I’m almost to my weight maintenance goal now. I’m concentrating on continuing to eat right, but not worrying about every morsel that goes into my mouth.

I’m adding to my exercise regimen every time it seems reasonable, trying to add things that will help my efforts to improve my balance issues, increase my strength, stamina and flexibility, and promote relaxation.

Hopefully, by the end of April, I’ll be able to report that my weight loss goal has been met!

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I hope that you are having a stellar day and evening.

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Friday, 3-27-2026

Pinterest

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Thaiger

I had a wonderful massage this morning. My regular therapist was still gone, but will be back tomorrow, according to Khun Sulee, the therapist who has been taking Khun Weaw’s place the past 3 weeks. I made sure she knew how happy I was that she agreed to do my massage this morning and did such a great job.

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As I told you yesterday, Brian and I have a very busy day today. Once we leave, we won’t be back until dinner time.

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I am trying a supplement and thought I would share it with you. It’s called Beet Root Powder. I may be the last one to the party on this, but I read information on it not long ago and wanted to add it.

Sunshine Market


“Beetroot powder is a nutrient-dense, vibrant red superfood made from dehydrated beets, often used to improve athletic performance, boost circulation, and lower blood pressure. Rich in nitrates, it offers a mild, sweet flavor suitable for smoothies, juices, sauces, and natural food coloring. It is commonly used as a pre-workout supplement or to add nutritional value to meals.”

Key Health Benefits

  • Boosts Exercise Performance: High nitrate levels can improve oxygen usage, enhancing athletic endurance.
  • Lowers Blood Pressure: Known to support cardiovascular health and increase blood flow.
  • Nutrient-Dense: Contains essential micronutrients that support heart and gut health.
  • Cognitive Support: May aid in increasing blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive performance. 

What are the top 10 health benefits of beetroot?

  • Rich in protective antioxidants. …
  • May have anti-cancer properties. …
  • May have anti-inflammatory properties. …
  • May lower blood pressure. …
  • May improve exercise performance and support energy levels. …
  • May improve digestive health. …
  • May protect the gut.

AND – “MAY” make me look like Julia Roberts!!!!!! 😜

(It didn’t actually SAY that, but with all the OTHER stuff it may do, I’m willing to believe it’s possible…)

I couldn’t find any downside unless you take more than the recommended dosage, so I started it last night.

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This is my latest painted sketch.

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I hope your day and evening is great. Pass the smiles around!

“If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams, and you will always look lovely.” —Roald Dahl

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Tuesday 3-24-2026

“Random Funny Memes” – BoredPanda.com – Adelaide May Ross, Mantas Kacerauskas, and Rugile Maityte

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Complete Wellbeing.com

We visited Harvey at the nursing home today. It was the best visit we have had in a long time. He remembered that Brian had arranged for French fries to be delivered to him yesterday. He said he shared them with his nurse. He was telling us that they ‘came in through the window,’ but that was minor compared to the pleasure he experienced. He also told us our visits were the high point of his day. We were really happy that we could brighten his day a bit.

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This is my latest painted sketch. When I finish with my blog posts for the day, I plan to try to do some sketching.

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I decided to bring my family into my condo more by putting their pictures up around the mirror in my bedroom. The pictures had been in an envelope in a drawer, and I decided that this was a quality of life thing for me, something that would make me smile every day. It’s not ‘pretty,’ and “House Beautiful” would probably not approve of the decoration idea, but it’s MY condo and I love it! 😁

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Brian will bring dinner to my place this evening. After we eat, we’ll back up the data on my phone and my computer and then chat – the best part of my day.

Today at the chocolate place I broke Brian up by sneakily giving him back an empty gum packet after we finished our chocolate. I don’t manage to fool him very often, but this is an ongoing thing between us. Today I was successful, and snorted when I saw the look on his face. He threw the little gum packet at me in disgust while I simply lost it. The ladies at the counter had no idea what was going on, but were smiling just because I was laughing so hard.

Today while we were walking, Brian teased me unmercifully about ‘falling over things that weren’t there’ on the sidewalks. I told him huffily that they had a conspiracy going on to trip me on the only spots on the sidewalk that were smooth…

This is the stuff that makes me rich. The fact that Brian and I can enjoy each other every day now is a gift beyond price.

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“Now, think of the happiest things. It’s the same as having wings.” ―Peter Pan, Peter Pan

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Monday 3-23-2026

“Random Funny Memes” – BoredPanda.com – Adelaide May Ross, Mantas Kacerauskas, and Rugile Zemaityte

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My latest painted sketch

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It occurred to me that I hadn’t seen any hummingbirds, and I thought of trying to hang up a feeder on my balcony. I researched and found that hummingbirds are only native to the Americas! There are, however, “Sunbirds” here. One is called an “Olive-Backed Sunbird” and the other is called a “Green-Tailed Sunbird.” They are best seen at high elevations and in local parks. So, my thoughts about a feeder on my deck are not reasonable. 🥲

Olive-Backed Sunbird -BirdGuides

Green-Tailed Sunbird – eBird

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Harvey’s nurse wrote to Brian, saying the French fries were delivered to the nursing home yesterday and that Harvey enjoyed them. We were kind of hoping for a video of him enjoying them, but that didn’t happen. We also don’t know if he connected the fries with the fact he told Brian Saturday he wanted some or thought they had magically fallen out of the sky, but his day was brightened by a kind act by Brian, and that’s priceless.

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ABC Pediatric Therapy

I will try to do some sketching this afternoon. I’m finishing the painting of my last sketch, so I need to get my pencil going. I’m also going to concentrate on trying to make progress on my puzzle. Such a nice afternoon ahead!

“If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.” ―Dolly Parton

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Saturday, 3-21-2026

This is just one of MANY trees and bushes blooming right now. I’m not really sure WHY they are blooming, since this is the ‘hot and hazy’ season right now, with little, if any, rain. It just makes me happy to look around and see wonderful splashes of color and lush blooms.

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Women’s Health

Shout-Outs to –

  • Linda Smith
  • Sheila Murrey

For introducing me to Qigong, (Chi-gong) an ancient Chinese wellness system combining slow movement, breathing techniques, and focused intention to cultivate and balance “qi” (vital energy). It integrates gentle physical postures, mental meditation, and deep breathing to reduce stress, increase energy, and enhance overall health.

I’m just getting started with this, but I am already feeling some effects of it and plan to add it to my daily schedule.

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Women’s Health

Shout-Outs to –

  • Cathy
  • Nora
  • Michael
  • Linda B.
  • Kay

For various reasons, these wonderful people are facing challenges, needing my thoughts, prayers, and love.

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123RF

Brian and I went to see Harvey at the nursing home this morning. This was one of the better visits, even though his nurse had contacted Brian last night, saying he had cut his hand and was having to wear the plastic “air gloves” because he seemed to be trying to pull his nasal feeding tube out. Today he was calm and in good spirits. He wasn’t hurting. He wasn’t wearing the awful gloves, so I guess the nurse had decided he wasn’t intending to pull out the tube anymore. He really wanted a cheeseburger and fries. Brian finally agreed to talk to the people in charge and see if his nurse could help Harvey eat fries tomorrow if Brian called in a delivery of them out there. Though a lot of what he said didn’t make sense, he wasn’t upset, so it was a good visit.

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Custom Embroidered Clothing

I had fun sketching at the cafe yesterday afternoon, even though I didn’t get my favorite seat. It was good I took my sweatshirt because it was like a meat locker in the cafe, so I pulled it on after about half an hour and then was comfortable. I will try to get started painting one of the sketches this afternoon.

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Wiroj Sidhisoradej – Freepik

There is an Asian family of 3 across the building from me, with a father, mother, and little boy of about 5, I think. I don’t know where they are from, but they are very nice. When the little boy looked at me with his beautiful large eyes a week or so ago, I impulsively waved at him. Now we wave enthusiastically whenever we see each other. 👋. Today when I went up for breakfast, the mother and boy rode in the elevator with me. His mom is really pretty and she was wearing a motorcycle helmet with playing cards on both sides. They could have been an ad for anything they looked so nice! We have only said, “Hello,” because language is a barrier, but it’s so pleasant to see them.

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“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” ―Dalai Lama XIV

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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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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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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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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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