What I have learned...by Mom

The kids are by the pool and I can't call a soul.  You would kill me.  As easy as you would think 13 hours would be...I still struggle.

The currency is 34 bbt to 1 usd.  So something for $3400 is only $10 Us.  I get nervous when things cost so much and yet they are nothing.  Needless to say, I haven't purchased anything.   I have to call Lauren over to calculate. We walked away from a Tuk Tuk that was $250bbt for one that was $200 bbt--or $1US.  Crazy americans.

The coffee is espresso.  And no matter how much milk you add, it is still espresso.  Christa gave up and sticks with the OJ.  I struggle with balancing milk and sugar.  The waiters laugh.

They call us "Longnoses".  Not Tourist.   They have flat noses.  There are very few longnoses during Monsoon season--but we have been very lucky and it hasn't rained yet!

Tuk Tuks are the way to go.  You look like a Mexican tour bus crowded in, but it is fun.  But hell getting in and out.  My legs don't bend as they use too.  I think they just do it to laugh at the longnoses.  The locals use motor bikes.

They take off their shoes to go shopping.  Go to the massage place, shop.  Shoes outside of everystore.  Even the maids leave their shoes outside our door.

There are massage places and tailors on every corner.  $5-10 US gets a massage.  $99 US gets a suit with shirt. (Billy: I changed my toe nail color so you can't tease me anymore)

Their beach shopping is like China Town.  Knockoffs.  Anyone want the newest movie out?

They are the nicest people.  No yelling.  No horns blaring.  No whistling at the girls.  (except the guy who wanted to marry Lauren.) Very nice people.  Lots of family...you hear "my sister will do that.."  "my brother.." I was worried about being American and they love everyone.

The beaches are to dye for....white sand, doesn't stick to you, clear clean water.  Can't beat it.  Makes US beaches look really polluted.

And this weird fact:  This is the place to go for sex changes.  They do that more here than anywhere.  Just in case you wanted to know...

Off to join the family....Love, Cent