The Fireworks Have Begun!

   It was the longest string of fireworks I've heard, they went off about 7:00 a.m.  In response to my puzzled look the family said "Happy Chinese New Year".  January 31, is the actual date this year but, like in the US, fireworks aren't confined to the day.
   Thai love celebrations so they have festivals for three New Years.  First is the western calendar New Year, January 1.  Chinese New year is next, the date is set by the lunar year but it happens late January or early February.  Then comes Thai New Year, Songkran, also set by the moon. It is really wild.  The tradition is to pour water on people...step out of the house or any building and you'll get soaked.  It used to be buckets or cups but the advent of huge soaker  water cannons have made buckets seem tame.  April is the hottest month so getting wet is probably welcome.
   It was night market time last night with Gai, Mai, Mai, Poy, Ompa and Pear.  I learned something about my significance here.  Gai said "Many people come, only you come back."  It is my 6th year and I've heard a similar message from the teachers.  Poy's new filling looks very good.  It's not noticeable unless one really looks for it.
  China is now withholding the cool breezes and it is pleasantly hot.

At the night market.  Dinner for 7 was $9.00.

5th grade at their desks.

5th grade at their desks wearing their Phy. Ed. Day uniforms.