“Our Pink Cadillac”

Since we have made a commitment not to drive, either a car or motorbike, (probably a good thing given Mickey’s driving and the fact the Thais drive on the left side of the road), we have purchased a 27” pink bicycle, no gears with red handles and a bell. We didn’t realize until riding it that the red dye bleeds onto your hands in the heat. Gloves will be a must.

The bicycle drives great and Mick took it yesterday to scope out how long it will take us to get to our “work” location. It is just 4 km. away from the hotel. We hope to ride to work and Mick is waiting on a bike of his own as the pink Cadillac is only a one seat affair. It is cooler in the mornings, but temperatures drive up into the high 90s in the afternoon. Rain is not unexpected at some time each afternoon (sound familiar?).

Today was the first day for our volunteer assignment, to meet everyone at the office and see various project sites, but I couldn’t go given the “revenge” on my stomach from something I ate or drank…it was bound to happen sooner of later, but the very first day of work???!!!  Mick went on his own, a good ambassador.

Called Dr. Brucey in Chicago at 2:30 a.m. here for advice and hope to be on the mend in a few days. Seems like we need to check in with him for all Allweiss family vacations.

We switched locations of our living quarters at the Ayara Villas, from a beach view, (which included the sight every morning of dozens of European tourists in tiny bathing suits) to a larger apartment-like space towards the back of this resort. It is very nice and quiet and less expensive. The folks here have been amazing. They will give us a key to the conference room for computer usage, and, if needed, the driver will take us to and from work for a little less than $3 each way (drivers are pretty typically used here) if we need him. Today, the hotel was kind enough to send someone out to get me Gatorades and delivered them directly, as I dare not yet leave the room. 

Mick had an interesting first day, meeting the CEO, the staff, volunteers, visitors and local high school students. We get our assignments tomorrow.