Last week I completed the massage courses that I came to do on this trip. I am grateful for a comfortable and nurturing environment to have studied in. Many thanks to all the teachers, student teachers, and students who were all part of this process.
I really enjoyed learning and practicing this beautiful form of Massage. Even though I took a variety of course they are related and can be used together for healing (as with many other modalities). My course work consisted of Thai Massage Level 1 and 2, Herbal Compress, Foot Reflexology, and my favorite, Tok-Sen. I will be coming back to further my studies.
I am really appreciative for my interest in Bodywork for that is what brought me to Chiangmai in the first place but I got so much more on many levels so much so that the intensity of what I experienced in the last few weeks I can't even write about and perhaps can't really talk about either for there are "no words". It is an experiential thing!!!!

Amazing Service in Chiang Mai (part 2)

In between my two dentist appointments today (the cleaning was at 4pm and the filling at 7pm) I stopped at an optical shop at 130 Thapae Rd. Tel: 0-5323-2156 asking how much for an exam and to look at some eyeglasses.
I have several pairs now but not with updated prescriptions. Before leaving the states I did get an eye exam going in with the impression that the exam would be at no charge. Even though I don't get vision with my benefits working with the city they did cover the exams in previous years but did not discover until afterwards that it was no longer covered. I had to fork out almost $100 bucks.
When I went into Top Charoen Optical I was greeted with lovely smiles and a glass of Orange Juice with a piece of Orchid as decoration, boy what class! I never experienced this in the states and many times people did not seem like they were very much interested in helping me. Again the level of service was wonderful and the price for the glasses and getting the transitional lens was a fraction of the cost I would pay back in California.
The level of respect they shown was mutual and I wanted to do business with them. There was no pressure and it made my decision process easy. I found a nice pair that I like and placed the order. I will be coming back when I return to Chiang Mai. Many thanks to the friendly staff at Top Charoen Optical.

Amazing Service in Chiang Mai (part 1)

I was walking down the street yesterday and notice a dental office (Dental4U Clinic) with a sign outside with some rates of the services they provide so I popped in to inquire about a cleaning and found the prices a fraction of the cost in the USA, particularly in California.
Some may be thinking why would you need to get dental work in Thailand when you have benefits working for the City of San Diego? Many people are under the illusion that working for the City we get great benefits....wrong! Actually we get a skeleton medical plan and in fact if you look closely there have been many changes even in the plan that I have but certainly no dental or vision.
I was not completely honest with dentist today when she asked me when I was last at a dentist office, I told her 5 years but actually it has been 10 years and I was embarrassed to say. I've been wanting to go see a dentist for a few years now and would look at ads trying to figure out where to go at a minimum cost. My previous dentist experiences were not positive and they always seem to need to do all this work. They are suppose to be the experts and they have out teeth in their hands.
The people here were very kind and gentle. They were committed in making me comfortable. All the noise freaked me out but I would have that wherever I go. They did an exam and proceeded with the cleaning. After the cleaning the comforting woman explained for my age my teeth are in good shape and I would need one filling. I've been in the fear for not going to the dentist in all these years that I would need more extensive work, so I was really relieved. For the cleaning it was 600baht and the filling was another 800baht (a total of about $45 USD).

If you find yourself in Chiang Mai just go east of the Thapae Gate just a few blocks on the left hand side at 382-384 Thapae Rd. Tel: 0-5387-4149

Intense Thai Massage Work Today!

Gotten quite a few massages in Thailand. Most places that I've been were good and for the price you can't beat it. Have not had a bad one since I've been here and today WOW!
During the Thai Professional Class I was worked on by two student teachers who really put it on me. Both had their own special qualities. My friend Zulu gave me some fantastic heavy work. He has been very good for me and my development to give me great feedback. The first week I took classes one of the things is when we connect with the client we asked do you want soft, medium, or Hard. After a few days working with Zulu and in my practicing he says he wants more so I have added another level....soft, medium, hard, or Zulu? This guy is extremely flexible and likes strong pressure. I just need to scale back some when I work on others. I was so wiped out after he worked on me. There was time left in class but I did not have anything in me to practice so another student teacher used me as an example and he brought another quality which was amazing. After both these guys worked on me I felt like spaghetti. Keep in mind I am a large student especially compared to most who come through this process. I am grateful for such an incredible experience. I know at these massage places if they worked like these guys did all day they could not last in the business.
Thank you my brothers!!!

My Five Wives!!!!!

So many wives, how do I keep track? Just kidding! Last night I joined one of our teacher's from The School of Massage and Health and some of my fellow students. We went to the Night Safari at the Chiang Mai Zoo. It was great to spend time with them and I had so much fun hanging out. The teacher was joking speaking of my Five Wives. Of course I enjoy the attention that I got from them and all the other people around who seem to get a kick from the great time we were having. The best part of the Night Safari for me was the light show later in the night. The grounds were very beautiful and I loved the landscape. As we entered there was a small circus type elephant doing tricks and seemed to make people happy which that part is okay but after my experience at the Patara Elephant Farm and everything I learned there it was a little troubling for me to see. Perhaps if I did not go to the Farm last week I would not feel this way. Besides that I enjoy checking out the flowers, the structure and how informative the rides were through the park. We went during the English version. What a cool evening of fun and laughter. The only thing is at the end of the night my wives booted me out. Just teasing, I love these special women and they made my evening very nice.

A Visit to the Baan Kingkaew Orphanage

I had the wonderful privilege to visit the Baan Kingkaew Orphanage today. In my short visit I was moved at how happy many of the children were. Just to see their beautiful smiles was very special! No need for me to say too much on this and I wanted to just provide a short share for my readers. I had the opportunity to connect with the kids from three different groups and even got a hug, played a few minutes, and was able to feed one child. I really liked how clean the place was and you can tell the team there really care for these children. The grounds are well taken care of and the facility seems very organized. I am proud to have shared just a moment with them and upon my return to Thailand will come to help out however I can if they allow me.

If you care to make a donation you can contact them at: contacktbkk@baan-kingkaew-orphanage.org or www.baan-kingkaew-orphanage.org you can also arrange a monthly direct debit payment with the bank.

Tok-Sen...Day 3

My third evening of this unique and special form of bodywork. I am really excited about it for many reasons. I would say the chief thing is that it feels so natural for me. It requires a certain level of rhythm and flow. I believe it has been easier for me to pick up and learn than both Thai Massage and Foot Massage. I do enjoy it all and with Tok-Sen we do use Thai Massage to warm up the body and the same with the Thai Foot Massage so both do solidify my Thai work. I really like the way that my instructor teaches me. She first has one of the Teacher trainees to model and some have not even received the work before. Then she does it on me and then I practice on her for the immediate feedback. It is awesome to have this one on one training of this very special work. The first evening she explained some things to me about the ritual of it with the symbolism of the color of flowers and where the wood comes from which I found very interesting. I did realized that it is very specific for this region and even then many people don't even know about it. The reason that I know this and it was confirmed because on my way home tonight I stopped for a quick 1hour Thai Massage at a place I've been wanting to go for sometime and I had a little chat with the practitioner and she had no clue. A few of her colleagues were giving sessions and was wondering about the tools and the techniques. I used the tools on them for a brief moment and they thought I was a teacher of this. When I went downstairs where they were doing foot massage I asked them if they ever heard of it and out of the 3 people working only one older lady had heard about it. I was really surprised.

I am extremely honored to be taught this and to connect with it on a deeper level. I am moved!!!

Letting Go Even More of Attachment

Boo hoo!!!! Got my haircut today. This was a major step for me. So, I was thinking back at the last time I had it this short. The first thought was when I join the Navy and went to boot camp but it still was longer then. So, the next thought was when I shaved it off back in 1975, yeah that's it, just a little longer than that. I can safely say many people that know me has never seen my hair cut this short. The lady who cuts my hair in the states I've been seeing for nearly 18 years I think. She knows how I like my hair cut and even when I say short it is not the short that most people think. The last haircut that I had was over a month before I came to Thailand so that makes it at least 2 months without one. I usually don't go more than 5 weeks without one. I was going to try and hold out for when I return in a few weeks but it has gotten out of control. When I take a shower and put in some of my hair care product it gets me by most of the morning but by the afternoon it is almost like I stuck my finger in a light socket. So after my Tok-Sen class this evening I stopped at a little place across the street from the school.
I started to try and communicate with her what I wanted but could not quite express my needs so I decided to breathe and experience (like my friend Rick reminds me of) so sitting in the chair she started to go to town and boy did she. At moments I began to get nervous because my beautiful locks were getting chopped off. The feeling I had is when I had my dreadlocks cut back in 1986 for those of you that remember.

When she was finish cutting and I had the shampoo I actually like it. It is very different for me. A funny feeling came over me because I never would imagine that I would ever cut my hair this short and I'm sure that if I could communicate with this nice lady I would not have had this cut and certainly would not have been present of how attached I've been over my hair. The thing is it can grow back if I choose to and either way will be fine. It was cool as I was walking home because some of the people that I come across enroute saw me made a gesture about my head and gave me a nod or the thumbs up!!!

I do see having it this short will save me a bundle of money in hair care products which I do spend a bundle with a variety of products from a special organic shampoo, several type of conditioners, balms, gels, and cremes.

Feeling Healthy!!!

Another kind person that I met is the lady that does my laundry. Not only is she nice but she does a great job in cleaning my clothes. I had to have the pants that I've brought with me taken in which she has accommodated me. My clothes smell so good. I would love to have someone like that back in the states to take care of my clothes like this. I stop to say hello to her and her family almost daily because her home/shop is close by where I live. She has invited me to have dinner with them on a few occasions.
Regarding my jeans I gave them away because they were just not worth having them taken in. They were already baggy as it was. The Thai gentleman and I had a chuckle because he says he can have two pair made. Even my shirts are too big and baggy. Before leaving I was wearing XXXL and I did buy a Polar Bear tee shirt that was XXL and was too small but now is more than comfortable and now is feeling a little loose on me. Good Stuff!!!!! Thai life has been good for me. It took me coming here to really start to honor who I am and to release things that I've hold on for many years. I am FREE!!!!
Now I am really excited because I am having some clothes made. More for just running around and when I do bodywork but I am also going to have a really nice outfit made before returning to California. I saw the perfect material and I hope the lady that is doing my clothes will be able to find the same stuff!!!

Another Layer in my Bodywork Experience!

This week as I've mentioned I started a Foot Massage Course. Afterwards I meet with Master Teacher studying an amazing healing process called Tok-Sen. I read about the course prior to coming here and knew I wanted to experience it without really knowing what it is all about. I am absolutely amazed at how wonderful receiving and giving this work is. This evening was my second session of learning, practice, and feeling the work.
The warm up of the body is with some of the Thai Massage principles then using the tools mostly on the energy lines we provide an incredible relaxing experience. I am proud to say that I seem to pick it up right away and it feels so right. It is my favorite type of bodywork to do and receive. When they tell me that it is only in Chiang Mai, I say and now in San Diego, California USA. If anyone who reads this has studied this and is willing to do trades...shoot me an email.
I hope for those of you that I work on will be willing to experience this unique form of massage, you will be glad that you did.

The School of Massage and Health has been the perfect school for me to study and more than just learning massage the connection with people from all over the world is awesome. I have met so many like minded, wonderful and warm people from all over the globe. This has increased the richness of my day to day experiences.

For some reason I cannot access the website from here so I am unable to add a link at this time. I will post the link when I return to the states when I do my summaries of the journey. For now you can email the school at tsomfh@yahoo.com

I am so blessed to love and to be loved so. Being in Thailand has warmed my heart and soul in a way as never before. The Thai people have been so friendly and kind to me. This includes most everyone I come in contact with. My precious instructors at School of Massage and Health, my laundry lady, the folks where I stay, the places that I eat, the people that pummel my body with massage, my tattoo artist, the master silversmith, all the friendly faces I see as I wander the streets of Chiang Mai, and just about anyone that I extend a smile to I get one back. Especially the young children that I see and laugh with. For the intensity in the love I have for people I want to extend my many thanks to these beautiful people here that has shown me that it is possible to love so, genuine LOVE. I now can hold these experiences in my heart.
Prior to coming here, if I would smile at someone or wave hello with no response I would allow myself to be upset and would say things to myself that was unhealthy. People are who they are and I no longer have this high expectations of others. If I extend greetings without a return gesture it is okay because the love in my heart is stronger than that and it does not change how I feel about my fellow man. I am free!!!!

Herbal Compress

On Saturday I took an incredible course called Herbal Compress.

Walking around in the city I see many places offer herbal massage. I had no clue what it was. My thought was that it was like circulatory (Swedish) kinda like aroma therapy but with herbs....I was wrong.

Our wonderful Master teacher taught us about the herbs and how they can help the body. We learned about fresh and dried herbs. We made up our own herbal balls one in dry form then another fresh for our session practice. I was really impressed with the varied uses of herbs in healing the body of many different ailments.

After lunch we began treatment. We practiced and studied how to apply the herbs to the body and found the warmth of this process very comforting. I also like this treatment because I can use it on the Elderly as well as people that are not as receptive to touch as with other forms of bodywork.What a wonderful treat (to add to the many treats that I've experienced in Chiang Mai).

Playing Petanque with the Locals

On Friday on my way home I took the back streets and notice some people playing my favorite outdoor game, Petanque. As I observed they waved me over so I did. It was very special and even though they did not speak English it was really great to connect again with locals and have a fun time with them. The woman I call Mama could count in English and she said friend. It is a family and a few friends who made up a court. I came back the next day after my herbal class to play a bit longer. I would like to spend more time with them however my time now is becoming very limited and my principle focus at this time is to complete my Massage education. Thank you Thai people for making me feel comfortable and showing such warmth. I love you!!!

Jewelry Making Course...Day 2

Last Friday I attended another Jewelry Making Course. I wanted to try and make a ring for something different. I am not a ring guy but I thought the experience would be valuable and it truly was.

I started off with a design that I could implement several techniques. The process of creating a design was not the challenge it is when the instructor told me that I would have to use math. The first reaction was shocked because I did not even consider that and it seemed that I reverted back to my troubling times during school and instantly had those feelings of lack and I was not a good student as my classmates. Then a touch of fear had set in and I began to felt helpless. The gentle Master Thai teacher helped me through this part of it with the calculations. When I was growing up after the experience I had regarding my mother many teachers avoided me like I was a plague so that had compounded my feelings of inadequacies. The growth continues and it affirmed within me the importance of my life's work with the Kidz Hearts Foundation.

Anyways the magic started and I turned a piece of silver into a part of my creative process. The experience is unmeasurable as much of my experiences here in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

It was difficult to get a good enough photo image of the ring to add to this post for the "bling" was blinding!!! Smiles

Went to Prison

I knew that would catch your attention;)

One of the different things that I wanted to experience was to get a massage at the Chiang Mai's Women's Prison. The facility across from the Correctional center has a spa and gift shop. I walked in where a guard directed me to the room where I changed into fisherman's pants and a top. I put my personal things into a locker and laid on the mat getting ready for an experience in which I had no idea of what to expect. This Thai woman started to work on me and I was immediately impressed and have to say it probably was the best Thai massage I ever received. At the end of the session I was offered a cup of lemon grass tea and really took in the sensation of this nice Thai Massage session.

What I understand from talking with the guard and what I read in the guide books is that the money that is made goes to the these women who are about to be realeased within 6 months in which they are able to have a savings when released. These are not harden criminals. I refered to "Lonely Planet". Some of the information is a little outdated. A 1hr Thai massage is actually 180baht (almost $6 USD) and the hours are from 9am-4pm. They also do foot massage but not Herbal like the book says.

In trying to encourage others to try it out I get all kinds of reactions. It is okay though I cannot expect people to be open to this kind of experience but I do think that people need to get out of their head and their preceived ideas not only of this but anything in their lives. How do you know if you don't try? What is getting in your way?

Related Links:

http://www.chiangmainews.com/indepth/details.php?id=340

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293917-d1158865-Reviews-Chiang_Mai_Women_s_Correctional_Institution-Chiang_Mai.html

http://www.smh.com.au/travel/held-captive-by-healing-hands-20090226-8iwo.html

Great Eats III and a Personal Share!

This last Saturday I was guided to have lunch at this nice place "Yoga" restaurant. When I walked in I felt a wonderful vibe. It is a very charming place with great people. It was nice speaking and connecting with them. You can tell this woman is very loving and sweet. I had the red curry with brown rice. You can really tell the food came from the heart and with love. I am honored to have been drawn here and continue to meet wonderful people from all over the world.

Side note:

It is really profound for me that I am at a place that I am not even recognizing myself and as each day unfolds and I delve a little deeper into my experiences and have greater insights into who I am and who I want to be in the world, how can I be who I was before coming here? I have stretched so much that there will be major changes in not only my lifestyle but also in the way that I experience my world......a major step will be in the way of the employment that I do for income, Parking Enforcement. I will continue my life's work (the Kidz Hearts Foundation), my work of passion (massage), my work of Joy (providing wonderful gift baskets for all occasions) but also expand myself and work experience by attracting the perfect work for me.

Foot Massage Course

First day of Thai Foot Massage course. It is much more that I thought it would be. I have always given great foot massages mostly intuitively and got better with the various massage classes and much practice over the years.
The course is a week long and we covered many techniques today that actually amazed me. I first thought, we need a full week just to learn foot massage? There really is much more to it than one would think. It is wonderful when you let go of "What you know that you know" and take it in. I still at times get a little frustrated because I want the flow to happen immediately but I have to take a step back and realize that I am learning something new. Just because I have studied and practice massage nearly 17 years and I have a wonderful flow in my current practice does not mean I have to hold myself to this perceived higher expectation of myself. I know that I have quality in my touch and I am reminded of that when I put my hands on people. This process of learning many wonderful techniques has revealed a deeper quality of who I am and a wonderful sense of my experience of the "NOW".

My teacher is a wonderful, warm, and nurturing person. I really like her and she has adds a fun way of learning. I appreciate her patience with me.

Great Eats II

Lucky me! I have found my favorite spot to eat which is called Ratana's. I really like it because they have several of my favorite dishes. All places don't have the same selections. For example one of my favorite dishes is called "khao soi". It is a vegetable (or chicken) curry dish that is from Northern Thailand that is absolutely Delicious. They use a special noodle that many places don't have. Also they have other wonderful selections of Northern Thai Cuisine. The prices are great and both locations the people are cool.
I first found the one near the jewelry school and accidentally found the one that is closer to home.

Street Markets in Chiang Mai

There are several Street Markets in Chiang Mai where you can find a variety of things. You have to be prepared to haggle for the best price and actually they expect it.
When they have these markets they block off the streets and you see all kinds of vendors. The first two that I went to was the Sunday Street Market and the Night Bazaar. All I did was checked it out. There were a few items just for the fun of it did some bargaining with the merchant but end up not purchasing anything. Both of these are well worth checking out and a great opportunity for people watching.
But you cannot miss the Saturday market. I went last night and found it the best. It is not as well know as the previous two but you find the best deals. I think the reason for this is because it is more gear to the Thai people. I would say about 80-90% of the people were Thai. I like it better too because the prices are already lower so you don't have to negotiate as much. I end up getting a shirt (which I really like) and 3 pair of the Thailand pants all for 500baht ($15 USD). The merchant was a cool soft spoken Thai man. The energy here was welcoming and made it comfortable. The street is much more crowded I would say but what a wonderful way to connect to folks. I had fun talking to all kinds of people and they were receptive.
The other two are much closer to me but the Saturday one is my favorite.

Another Fantastic Day....

and it is not over yet. It is just after 5:30pm in this wonderful city of Chiang Mai. Started the day by getting a Thai Massage then on to Jewelry making class. On my way home I stopped for another massage, this time Swedish for a change...but I really like the Thai modality. As I continued to walk home after session in one of the small back streets I notice some locals playing Petanque. They had made up a small court and even had the mama out there. They waved me over so I stopped to watch and actually I played for a few, how neat!!! They did not speak any English but I understand that they are playing tomorrow so after my Herbal class I will come back. Made it to the pad to unwind for a few then on to continue the artwork on my polar bear sleeve with Poon at Magic Tattoo. I am really happy with the progress.
I am very much in the zone and making the most of each and every moment! The energy is strong and my consciousness is heighten thereby I am open to the many gifts that comes my way in many forms. I am appreciative for it all!!!

Great Eats!

You can find all kinds of things to eat in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Of course I mostly eat Thai food which I really enjoy. Even when I eat in Thai restaurants in the States it is just not the same. Eating different Thai food can be as complex or as simple as you like. I can say for sure I have never eaten this delicious array of choices back home and really enjoy the opportunity to explore and delight my taste buds.
When I go to massage school I eat at a vegetarian restaurant that I really like and the food is very inexpensive. There are many restaurants for slightly more you can have seafood and meat items. The best place I've found have been non deliberate (no accidents!). There is a place I had lunch yesterday that was absolutely incredible and I feasted on Northern Thai cuisine for around six bucks and that is splurging for me.
You can go to any of the markets and you can find all kinds of things to eat. Also around the shopping areas you will see all kinds of stands for a wide range of things to munch on.
Even for those not adventurous you can get a roasted chicken at a stand for 100baht (about 3 bucks). There are also places that are western.....like hamburger stands, taco shops, pizza joints, etc...
One late night I did have a chicken burrito from a place where the guy is from California and I have to say YUCK!!! It could be I am spoiled on Thai food.
Of course my favorite culinary delights is attending cooking schools to learn how to prepare many of these dishes (particularly the local stuff) and have several meals from the process. Many of these classes are around 900baht ($27). Since I enjoy cooking these creative moments are great for me.
As you can see there are plenty of options which makes the travels even that more enriched.

Jewelry Making Course...Day 1

NOVA artlab http://www.nova-collection.com/

Another incredible day! Took a few days off from my Thai Massage Training and went to a jewelry making course. I am taking two days in this shift of experience. What a wonderful way to express and explore my creativity! Actually I am quite amazed at the results.

Class started at 10:30am so had the chance to take it a little slow this morning, boy did I need it after the first 30 hours of Thai Massage courses. I met my instructor Nugoon who is a master silver smith and jeweler. A remarkable man who is talented beyond measure. I am appreciative to work with him. What made it even more special is that I was the only student today so I received his direct attention and guidance.

So I popped into class not knowing what to expect. What I had in mind was to do something with the polar bear but when he said I had to do the drawing and design I was lost. I remembered what my dear friend and mentor Rick reminds me.....Breathe and Experience! So I did!!!
Once I did the creative juices started to flow. Of course there had to be a HEART to represent my big heart and my love for people and the planet. It took a few drawings to get to where my heart was taking me. Even once my design was done I did modify it as I worked with the material (silver).

I had to flow and trust in the process because when my head tried to understand how it possibly was going to happen the creative juice faucet was closing, so to let the flow happen I had to release the stories, self-evaluations, and self-criticism. When I was in the zone there was no limit.

I learned the basics in preparing the metal, working with a vast array of tools, and the soldering.
My instructor was absolutely incredible and very knowledgeable working with the tools and materials. His patience with me and my process was comforting and supportive. The course end up being about 6 hours and the cost was 1100baht course/just over 300baht for material ($33/$10). What is really cool is that they offer a week long course where you learn a variety of techniques or you can just take one class. To do gem setting you need at least 3 days and my time is so precious, that it will not work on this trip.

It was a pleasure to use a variety of techniques to create my piece. I could have made it simpler but why? More complex I would have to go another day just to complete it. I am taking another class tomorrow and I want to learn how to make a ring. I will be more prepared for I will work on my design tonight.
NOVA has a Contemporary Jewelry Store on Thapae Rd and the lab is a few blocks away. You can find many nice pieces at the shop and this is where I signed up for the course. During my lunch break I went in to say hello and what a great time I was having in the class. They asked me to bring my piece in for them to see when I was done. After the course I did do so and I appreciate their reactions.

Something about my piece. On the bottom where you see the indentations represents the challenges and limitations (self-imposed or otherwise) that I've experienced in my life. The cut out represents a river and by crossing it leaving behind the baggage allows me to be who I really am with the abundance of LOVE in my heart and to expand that love unto the world which the dome shape symbolizes. Now, my interpretation of this piece may expand as I am present to it!

Be Safe

This is what many people said to me before I left the states and I still get emails that express this. In my travels over the course of my life I have encountered some intense moments especially during my backpack days in Europe. Also when I was younger traveling by Greyhound bus to see my Uncle in Los Angeles was not always a pleasant moment.



I know that most people do care and really want me to be safe but I have to say I feel more safe here than ANYWHERE I have been in the world. The people here for the most part are friendly and more than kind.



Perhaps I am the funny American that gets reactions from many people and it is always fun loving. On my route to school I see some of the same people and although I just know how to say hello and thank you there is a level of respect from the Thai people that I've never experienced in my 51 years here.

Peeling Another Layer!

Sometimes we have insights within ourselves that moves deep to our core and when we allow it we can truly grow and expand.

This morning I had a challenging time getting up and I can say since my initial arrival the first time that I felt tired. I skipped yoga this morning and made the walk to school a little later than usual. This was day 5 of the Thai Massage Foundation Intensive and boy am I feeling it. As I was preparing to go into class I realized how sore my legs are. For the previous days all that floor work and moving my body in ways that I have not experienced in quite sometime.

The previous four days we covered all the material for this section of my training so it was a day of practice and taking my examination. The instructors and students alike have been extremely helpful and I really enjoy my conversations with them. I have had some great talks with a wonderful spirit who is inspiring. It has been a great exchange of energy!

I was sharing with her how I really am getting how attached I've been and seeing that I am letting go. The example I shared was in regards of my shoes. In Thailand many places you go you take your shoes off before entering. Now I did get myself some sandals but after that first day of walking to school I got a sore on one of my toes so I've been wearing the Clark's that I got when I was in Amsterdam last year. I did pay good money for them. I had the thought of what if I leave these shoes out and someone takes them. It hit me like I ran into a brick wall.....so what? Does this define who I am as a person? Does what I have or the way I think about things define my experience. I suggest no. Being present in every moment and experience the richness of what is without attachment. In the attachments we become slaves to our interpretations. If we let go and experience what is we truly will know ourselves, our REAL SELF! Not the illusion or where our limiting thoughts take us.

Previously I had mentioned how I really wanted that A+ in my course. As I thought about it something just wasn't right and I was with that today and there was the breakthrough. I took the examination this afternoon and was being present to the session but there was a part of me that was caught up with that damn A+.....do you see what I mean? We have to be willing to let go. Well I did not get the A+. It had nothing to do with my evaluator for she is a very sweet and supportive person. She did give we some great feedback which was extremely valuable. My initial thoughts were not supportive of being present with what is and a part of me was not happy about it. Now why would I allow myself to be disturb by this? I am in a beautiful country meeting beautiful people and having the time of my life. Does an A+ define who I am? After a conversation I had today I saw where my attachment was coming from. The attachment to my educational experience during my troubled days after the lost of my mother and not doing well in school feeling inferior to the other children.

This day has been a major breakthrough for me. I am still feeling a shift as I write this and suspect that there will be a continual unfolding from this moment in my life!



After the class, even through I was exhausted I went for a Thai Massage. How appropriate. Most of our work was on my legs and I did not say a word!



I am thankful for all who have crossed my path and for those lives that I am able to touch in some way.



With TRUST,

Magnificent Michael (aka The Great White Bear)

Powerful Work!

Last night went to check out the Sunday Walking Market. Lots of nice colors at the variety of vendors, street food, and rows and rows of chairs where practitioners where giving foot massages. I never seen so many people getting any kind of massage at one time. This area was packed. I wandered around for about a hour just to check things out. They are open to midnight.

Got a fantastic night sleep!!!

I had the great pleasure and treat to get one on one with the master teacher today. Working with her confirmed my gift of touch. We covered a lot of material today and will have my first exam on Wednesday. I am striving for an "A+" which is above 95. Several students who are in a group before me shared that they got 94's which is an "A", so we will see. I will stay present, breath, study, and practice. I do have willing subjects. Learning this modality has taken me to a whole other level. Her feedback was great and I learned so much. I am truly blessed to have come to this school. During a break I did some TuiNa on her, some Sensory Repatterning on a student teacher and just connected with some of the wonderful students.

In my 17 years of learning I have combined and blended a variety of modalities to make up my sessions. Now that I am really getting into this Thai Massage thing we will have to see which direction my work goes. I am really feeling the power of this amazing work and would say much of my training to date has prepared me for this portion of my journey.

I was observing an advance student practicing points which may be a little confusing for me with my background in Tuina for the number and name of the points seem to be different. If you have any feedback Skip or Rick I am open.
After working with my teacher today I am inspired to come back and do teacher training with her if she will accept me.

My body is changing. The weight is coming off much easier without much conscious effort. Left two pair of pants with my laundry lady today to take in (these were the smallest pants that I had before leaving the states, so it will definitely time for new clothes when or if ; ) I return to the states). I am eating healthier and most days I eat a vegetarian diet. Today's special at the restaurant I went to was stir fry Kale w/mushrooms and rice, absolutely delicious. I have not had any Thai food I do not like yet...even panang which the curry paste has ground peanuts which I have had issues with before now. I still asked for no peanuts on top but will eat the curry.

Game plan for the week two more days of Thai massage class then on Thursday and Friday going to my Jewelry making course, Herbal compress class on Saturday, Sunday go play with the Elephants all day then start level II Thai course.

Stay tuned!!!!!

By Far The Most Incredible Adventure I've been on in my Life!

To be honest everyone I can't do justice of this one in the words that I express in this blog but I will certainly do my best. The adventure that I was on last Saturday was the single most exhilarating and powerful outdoor thing I have ever done. I was introduced to a place that sets up a variety of outing experiences that has something for everyone (and believe me there are many of these outfits but I was drawn to this one....there are no accidents). I decided to take a one day trek which was absolutely amazing and met a incredible Thai woman who was our guide. She is extremely knowledgeable and passionate at what she does. Her smile and kindness added to this very nurturing and intense lifetime experience.

We started on the road about 8am leaving just across from where I am living at the moment in a nice 4x4 vehicle (many of the other outfits have outdated vehicles that makes for a miserable ride), great touch! All the time we were on the road she provided us with all kinds of information about the areas and answered our questions. It was really cool too because I gave her my camera and she did a wonderful job at capturing many of the images. Thank You my friend!!!!

Our first stop was at an Elephant farm where we had the opportunity to ride in baskets on the elephant with a Mahoot (actually next week I am taking a one day course in Mahoot training which I will share with you at that time). The ride was just under an hour where we rode in the thick brush and ending by riding through a river bed, how cool. I bought a few bags of bananas to feed the elephant for 40 baht and that was not enough. Elephants can really put it away! My Mahoot was a wonderful Thai woman who answered all my questions and if you look into it you probably won't hear too much about women doing this. There was a young boy who was the mahoot for the couple that was with us. He was such a cute kid!

Afterwards we headed to a Karen Tribe Village. I was really moved by these people. They were making beautiful works and our beautiful guide communicated with them and explained many things to us. I felt privileged to have been in their presence. At one point we came to one of the homes where there was a beautiful baby with his grandfather, very special stuff. We walked down where people were working near the rice fields. A wonderful lady allowed me to take a photo of her. While we were walking around our guide explained many of the local plants and some of the uses for them especially the healing aspects.

We then went to Maewang Waterfall where I went for a swim. It was cool to swim in some of the power of the fall. Walking along the bamboo was a little scary because it was not wide and being a big fella it was not easy but my guide was great at getting me through it.

The next stop was the Bamboo River Rafting where we went down a river on bamboo that is tied together with shreds of bamboo. I really liked it and had fun helping the guy who was taking us down with the flow of the river and even hit a few rapids.

At the staging area our guide and driver picked us up and drove us to a local area where we had a delicious dish of worms. Boy, they sure was tasty!!! Just kidding, I couldn't tell you because I did not indulge. I did egg on people though. There were some people close by from Poland so I walked over there getting them to try the worms taking photos. Actually I was able to convince them to try it, am I a salesman or what? Most of them actually did eat some. We did have a wonderful meal of veggies, curry dish, of course rice and fresh fruit for dessert. Our beautiful guide really made sure I was well taken care of. I say this because the seats that they had would not accommodate me so she went in and got something comfortable for me to sit on. I was really moved of how attentive this sweet lady was and looked out for me on the whole trip.

The feature of the trip was heading up to the peak of the highest mountain in Thailand, Doi Inthanon. We saw another waterfall just off the road along the way. What a breathtaking ride. We stopped at The Great Holy Relics Pagoda of Nabhamethanidol - Nabhapolbhumisiri. All I can say about this part is WOW! The most amazing site that I have ever seen. We hung out there for a while checking out both sides for the King and Queen. Again I really enjoyed connecting with some Thai people. It has really been easy for me to start talking with them and most speak some English and even when they didn't we shared a smile and took photos together.

We continued the ride to the peak where we had the chance to walk around at the top of the summit. Incredible!!!! The sun was just about ready to set, I have not seen a more beautiful sight in my life. As we were heading back down to the vehicle there was a couple of gentlemen that was enjoying a glass of wine who was with another tour group and of course like many times I struck up a conversation with them. They said if you join our tour we give you wine with the trip and I said but they wouldn't have this special Thai women as our guide. I would not trade her in for any other. However they did share a glass with me to take anyways. One guy also spoke some French so I shared a few words and laughs with him as I walked on with my small group. As we continued to walk just to the right someone notice a trail by the name of Aang-Ka (Michael trail....how about that?).

Made it to the vehicle just as it turned dark. We were heading back when at the last minute our fantastic guide had the driver to pull close to the giant waterfall. We could not really see it well and certainly could not take the photos. She was so apologetic but I told her no need because for me just to be in the presence of this MAGNIFICENT Waterfall was extremely intense. Matter of fact I stopped to do a few moments of Qi-Gong really taking it in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So we were back on the road. Our guide was so sweet that before we got back into Chiang Mai they pulled over and she went into a shop and bought us sandwiches. You really can tell that she has such a big heart and I find her to be such a very special person. I am very happy to have met her. After we got back to the guesthouse just over 12 hours later we shared wonderful conversation which just top it off for me.