Some updates and fast facts

I should be writing a whole entry, but so much seems to have happened in the past few days, and as I have yet to bunk down in one place, I think I will structure this entry as updates from Chiang Mai and some new fun facts about my life here so far! Read on!

Changes from my last time in Chiang Mai:
Khao Soy Consumption: Khao Soy, a northern Thailand speciality, might be one of my favorite foods in the world! I've been dreaming about it for over two years and talking about it rather regularly since I learned I would be back in Thailand. So imagine my surprise, when having my first (DELICIOUS, INDESCRIBABLE) bowl of Khao Soy this afternoon, I could not even finish it! I do plan on continuing to try.
Less surprising was the fact that I can no longer consume Sang Son the way I used to. This is probably a good thing for both my body and soul!
Apparently I curse Houses- I've spent the past few nights at Felicia and Todd's lovely home (if you are reading this, thanks again guys!). Somehow though, my presence there seems to have cursed the residence. I woke up the first morning with all the electricity out, which is not something that happens to often, or for more then a short time, in Chiang Mai. The next morning I awoke to a powered home that this time had no running water and no wifi! I'm not sure what I've done to have this power, but it is one I feel bad about. Fortunately for everyone involved, my lovely hosts can't host me the next few nights, which brings me to my next fun fact.....
I'm back in Tri Gong- The residency I lived in last time I was in CM, was one of the reasons my time so great. Located in a terrific spot of town, I had plenty of friends there, hot water, AC, wifi, and tons of stations on the TV (even Star World, which showed old episodes of Lost and The Office). Since I left, the owner, Adam, has transitioned his business to cater almost exclusively to tourists on short term stays. Adam, for those of you who don't know, is an extremely kind Thai man, who served as my "Thai father" while I was here. A father so over-protective he certainly put my dad to shame! Happily, when I stopped by the other night he greeted me with a warm smile and a loud clap of his hands as he shouted my name! He has offered me a super deal to stay for the next few nights. I'm happily sitting in my room (not the same as last time) watching The Wizard of Oz and enjoying unlimited AC!


By the Numbers:
This brings the total # of places I've stayed in the past 6 nights to 4. One night with a former student, one night at Kham Thi's (see below), 3 nights at Felicias and now Tri Gong for my remaining time in CM
The number of mosquito bites I have: so far I count 23. I'm sure by the time I post this it will be much higher. Why do I have the sweetest blood?!
Number of small Burmese children I've contemplated kidnapping: One! Those of you who followed my trip last time around, or listen to my countless Thailand story, might remember Kham Thi and Me Me. Kham Thi is a former co-workers, and one of my very good friends in CM. I used to give Me Me English lessons, which usually ended up as coloring events or dance parties. She did learn some very useful English words from me, including "give me five" "dance" and "guitar". She is now 9, and just as smart and full of energy as before. She gave me the warmest welcome I've received so far, running out to the motorbike to yell "I miss you" before I even got near the house. Kham Thi, is just as darling and hard working as ever, the only MAJOR change is she is now 8 months pregnant! Like most of the Burmese I know, this does not in any way hinder the work she does, but she did promise to take it a bit easy. Fortunately it sounds like she is taking care of herself, of course I did give her a lecture!
Number of Thai Massages- Just one so far, but that will change ASAP


Theres much much more to tell, but its past noon and I still haven't had anything to eat! I'm off to find more Khao Soy, and another massage as well.
Tales from Mae Sot are sure to come soon..........