HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

Today, for the next 4 minutes anyway, is celebrated as the King of Thailand's birthday. He was born in 1927 in Massachusetts of all places, and is revered as more than royalty. He's reached god-like status.



So I celebrated in true fashion: by doing more Christmas shopping (which was a brilliant success!). While at the night bazaar, I listened to fireworks over my head, but couldn't see them. We were at a stall that had a TV in it, and stopped to watch the live festivities going on at the Grand Palace where thousands of devote Thais gathered to celebrate and honor the birthday boy's 83rd birthday.

Happy birthday king of Thailand, father of the Siamese, Bhumibol Adulyadej. You have my utmost respect.