Change & Muun Duum (same same)

Hello & Sawadeee Tuk Kon! 

Just a little update to wet your whistle and more later.

Well I’ve been out to the “Chon A Boat” (country) pretty much since I arrived in Thailand—less a lag day in Bangkok—and out there, as reunions of the sort go, I was limited on time and access to the Internet.  I just made my trek back from my site village in Sisaket Province last night where I spent the last 6 nights.  It was a whirlwind of hugs (no kisses), reunions/get-togethers, many huge meals, Thai massage with friends, small visits, and some of the usual activity—i.e. riding my bike around the village like in the old days. 

It’s a strange phenomenon how things change and still, some things stay eerily the same.  The most obvious changes are evident in building and structural development in addition to people “growing-up”, having babies, getting married, getting divorced, moving, etc.  What’s remained the same is how people interact and relate.  Upon arrival, I was reminded instantly of the formalities that must take place.  For instance, it was better for me to stay with my old neighbors (remember Grandpa and Grandma?!) than my old landlord because of the relationship we had when I lived there—who I was closest to, etc. Also, these two parties even though neighbors do no communicate with one another and had I stayed with the old landlord, I would have been limited to what social activity was appropriate and with whom.  It’s all very complicated but very much the same as I remember it.  People still ask me right away...”how old are you now”...”why aren’t you married”...”when are you going to get married and have children”...”how much money do you make”...then there’s the...”you look skinnier, you look fatter, younger, older, taller, different, prettier...all the physical changes that people like to point out in Thai Culture...etc. etc. –Those taboo questions and remarks that are rarely asked in American culture, especially right off the bat. 

So, that’s my little update for now!  Will have more soon~Pics of new house structure (my old rental) are forthcoming, have been having some trouble uploading. 

My old house structure where I lived as a PCV for 2 years
in Sisaket Province.

The new house structure (same house pictured above) that was
erected just after I left in 2011. 

New hallway--addition to the old house where I used to live.
You can see the old structure in the back.

With an "old friend"--dog at the guest house  in Bangkok I used to
frequent as a Peace Corps Volunteer--the owners still
remember me from 2011!

With RPCV and Thai friends in Bangkok