2 Month Anniversary

November 11th marked my 2 month anniversary of arrival in Chiang Mai (CM). Yes, I flew in on the 10 year anniversary of September 11th. This provided a point of reference for some reflection. I am definitely not on a vacation, as we work very hard at school and the work week is long. I would not trade it for anything at this point. I am lucky to have found a job here in Thailand that satisfies me as a career teacher.

So far I have:

Seen most of the attractions in the CM area, traveled to Lao for 10 days, motorbiked it to the "rooftop of Thailand," met some amazing people, met some not so great people. Moved twice, only lost my cool in public once (Biggest no- no in Thai culture, but if you have been reading my blog that was the week I experienced the "Wrath of Thailand." So hopefully it's forgivable). Managed to not die on the motorbike (just knocked on some wood). Found out that I have a congenital anomaly (birth defect) in 2 parts of my spine, experienced Loy Krathong, lost about 6 kilos
(approx 12 lbs) and I have no idea why- ride my motorbike everywhere and I eat, a lot. Learned about Buddhism. Reaffirmed that I do in fact believe in Karma. Gotten lost more than I care to admit, but found some cool places as a result. Started to pick up some Thai (nit noi), played in the river with elephants, and hung out with 3 full grown male tigers.

I am sure there are details I am missing, but not too shabby for 60 days.

Although I am very much a foreigner here I am becoming more comfortable with this, it helps to make some Thai friends, and find a few decent Farangs ;)

The most important thing happening is the development of my independence. There are days where I am lonely, and moments that I long for home or the people that I love and miss. These moments are fleeting compared to what I am gaining from this experience, and for that I am thankful.