Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. -Dr Seuss

I can't believe it's been three and a half months since I arrived in Bangkok! I have had the most amazing adventures from Cambodia, to Mae Sot, to Koh Chang and Pattaya with a little Bodyslam and waterfall seeking thrown in. But the pinnacle of all awesomeness is about to happen in less than 12 hours when I get to share all the beauty of Thailand with the people I love most in this world - my family!!! I just got an email from my mom that my mom, dad and sister are currently in Tokyo awaiting their connection south to Bangkok. This feeling might be comparable to all of those Harry Potter fans anticipating the final film, I wouldn't know because I don't watch them, but I've seen the faces and I recognize the excitement.

All week I've been making lists in my head: what I want from my closet at home, what I want to show my family, where I should take them, what they should eat, who they have to meet, when we will fit it all in... Everything will have a renewed sense of awe because "nothing of the soul is depleted when shared." This is the longest stretch EVER that my sister and I have been apart and I can't wait to have her by my side for the next 8 days.

I'm most excited about having my family meet all the outstanding kids I work with. In addition to my mom, dad and sister being here, my Aunt True and counsin Sean will be here on Saturday!! What a special, incredible group of people I have coming; how lucky I am...

Today is also a very special day because it is dear Pop's birthday!!! You're getting up there old man and I know it took A LOT to get you to fly to the other side of the world to see me, so I want you to know how much I appreciate it.

Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You. (Dr Seuess)

Isn't that the truth. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD.

Fortunately we'll have a professional photographer on hand this week so there will be some quality pictures coming soon...

And on a random side note - I made all the 'kids' I live with Mexican food (inspired by Amy) this week. What a hit. They always think what I eat is weird, but I have now discovered they are all lovers of avocados; who isn't?? We're making round two of mexican again tonight, followed by "The Fighter" with Thai subtitles... Andrew Smith, I'll be keeping an eye out for you!!

Teaching my roommates, the 'kids' from southern Thailand, how to make pita chips in a country without pita chips...

I found a new favorite park to run in: Benjakiti Park. There is a massive lake in the center, lined with these stunningly magenta flowers...palm trees abound and the landscaping is inspired! I can't wait to take the family :)

The sun is shining bright today!

ABA