Kate's View:

I woke up my first morning in Bangkok to the sound of singing blared through a megaphone.  At first I thought I was hearing my first political rally but when I stepped out on our balcony (one of the four balconies overlooking the city from the 16th floor of Iris and David's apartment), I realized that the sound was the elementary school (two-story wooden framed building built around a inner court) children practicing for some major dance recital...I took a picture on my IPAD and will share it as soon as I figure out how to do this.  Enchanting.

We've jumped right into the bustle of the city and a bustle it is.  Think of a combination of New York City and Mexico City but friendlier.  Ended my first night in Bangkok with a foot massage which my poor old feet needed desparately.

Iris, Kevin, and I are off to Angkor Wat tomorrow for three days.  Iris took us to the National Museum of Thailand today where she is a guide.  She almost killed us within three buildings--what will happen with 500 acres of temples and museums????!!  When I told her I was worrying that we may not be able to meet her endurance standards, she told me,  "Oh stop.  You have to get your money's worth."   ugh. oh.