10 things I like about this country

One of my friends encouraged me in the midst of cultural shock to find the things that you like about your country. So since we have been here a short time here are a few:

1. The people in the Isaan area are so friendly
2. I love every-time I walk out of my gate, I here the words, “Pay Saaay”  Where are you going?
3. Som Tom, Som Tom, did I mention som tom, oh and sticky rice.
4. Everything is so cheap here, the three of us can eat dinner for about $1.25.
5. The cows that eat in the open lot next door to our house.
6. Pineapple
7. There are flowers year round.
8. The transportation system, you can go by car, taxi, van, songtow, tuk-tuk, subway, skytrain.
9.  I love how you can get everything in menthol…. shaving cream, shampoo.
10. The markets here. Basically you can find most anything you need.  From fruits, to raw meat, to shoes.

Rice, rice, and more Rice

Here in Isaan we are just about coming to the close of rice cutting season. Most everyone around here are helping cut, gather, or assist with the rice in some form or another.  One example of how everything stops around here during rice season: we had some curtains made and they were suppose to take only one week, but it ended up taking nearly 3 weeks because the lady was Giaow Cow, or out cutting rice….

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to go out and cut rice with our helper and her husband.