Loy Krathong

Wednesday night, November 16th, I was invited to a one-year event in Thailand called, Loy Krathong. My Thai friend, Na made me a float full of beautiful fresh lily flowers, banana leaves, incense and candles. I am including the pictures of them so you can see mine and the ones my friends made. After 7:o0 p.m., people all around town go to the river and let their floats go. Before you let them go, you light the candles, incense and put some coins inside it then, make a wish before you send it down the river. It is suppose to bring you good fortune and luck! It is a beautiful event as you see all the floats glide down the river, and they luminate in the dark and reflect off the water. The purpose of the event is to give thanks to the river for all of our uses, during the past year. I was glad to be a part of it! Afterwards, my friends who are always so kind to me, a falong (foreigner in Thai) took me out for a drink and dancing at a local club where I had a lot of fun!
Life in Thailand continues to be a wonderful experience. I am learning so much about the culture and the way of life here is what I like about being here the most. Thai people find happiness in just being good to one another. They are generous and kind people who love foreigners, and like to make you feel welcome. For example, when I walk to class sometimes I have a lot to carry and a staff person always stops me and takes some of my things to my classroom. And at lunchtime, a woman in the kitchen always brings me a special treat of ice cream or fruit for dessert.
The things I am still trying to adjust to are learning the language to get around by myself. It is going pretty well but, I think I need to take a class to improve to the point where I am happy.
The workforce is also very conservative and so I am adjusting to dress in ways that show I respect their culture. But I do look forward to my nights and weekends where I can be more free of what I like to wear as far as comfort and fashion.
I hope all is well with everyone and I will continue to write as things progress here for me.
Maureen