Thani Talk 2018 April

April 2018

N o w o n l i n e a t : w w w. i s s u u . c o m / n n r t h a n i t a l k

Thani Talk NONTHABURI NEIGHBORHOOD REACH

Serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994

Cover Story: Growing Trend: Men as Trailing Spouses Pages 10-18

Travel: India’s Jaipur Literature Festival Pages 28-29

Thani Talk is generously sponsored by:

Feature:

PEOPLE:

Life in the Bubble Story of the Missing Shoes

Delfin Solomon Owner, Comedy Den Pakkret

Pages 21

Pages 38-39

NNR (Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach) is a not-for-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to serving the Nonthaburi community and supporting local charities since 1994. We achieve this by publishing Thani Talk, a free monthly magazine that has a distribution of 1,400 copies, as well as hosting an annual charity bazaar. We host monthly socials and organize monthly tours. There are no membership dues, and anyone living in Nonthaburi is already a member.

Connect with NNR

facebook.com/nnrthailand

issuu.com/nnrthanitalk

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DISCLAIMER: The placement of advertisements and articles in this newsletter does not constitute or imply endorsement by the NNR of any product or service. The NNR accepts no responsibility for any claims made in any advertisement and the opinions expressed in any articles are not necessarily the views of the NNR committee.

NNR BOARD 2017-2018 Chairperson

Henrietta Bullinger

NNRThaiChair@gmail.com

Vice Chairperson

Sally Elliot

sallyelliott@me.com

Treasurer

Sandra Wilson

nnrthaitreasurer@gmail.com

Activity/Tour Coordinators

Susanne Rodrigues Pascale Kervyn

NNR Socials

Chantal Bremner

nnrsocial@gmail.com

Charity & Volunteer Coordinators

Mare Harvey Cyndy Henry

nnrcharity@gmail.com

Advertising Director

Ginny Condra

Thani Talk News Team

Liz Lu (Editor) See below for Thani Talk Team

Distribution Coordinators

Alyson Espinoza Diaz Birgit Sund

Communications Director

Kiki O’Connor

092-458-3505

suratoru@yahoo.co.uk nnrtour@gmail.com

095-247-5692 nnradverts@gmail.com nnrnews@gmail.com 090-656-9930 alysonespinoza@gmail.com nnrcommunications@gmail. com

Thani Talk Team: Advertising Director and Proofreader (Ginny Condra), Graphics Consultant (Bill Fear), Restaurant Reviewers (John Marinos, Vara Sumetanon, Barb Lewis), Grapevine Leads (Susan Yates), Distribution Coordinators 2 April 2018 (Alyson Espinoza Diaz, Birgit Sund).

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Letter from the Editor New Topics and New Features for Your Reading Pleasure Hello everyone! In this issue of Thani Talk I’m pleased to introduce several innovations.

First, for our cover story, we step away from traditional Songkran coverage as Thani Talk explores a growing trend in our community, namely the increasing number of men who are the trailing spouses and stay-at-home dads on a family’s overseas assignment.

Second, Thani Talk revives a section called “Nonthaburi and Beyond” as we highlight local events (exhibits, shows, etc.) as well as activities elsewhere in Bangkok. Third, I’m pleased to continue the Features section in which you get to read about fascinating and sometimes quirky stories, such as this month’s feature on Line Kjærgaard’s missing running shoes. (p.21) Last but not least, check out the redesigned Fitness & Activities section on page 22. It’s a refreshing new look!

Happy reading!

Liz Lu

Calendar of Events

Inside This Issue NNR Social

Letter from the Editor NNR April Tour Highlights: March Social Cover Story Feature Fitness & Activities Nonthaburi & Beyond Community News Travel Heard it Through the Grapevine PEOPLE Charity News Restaurant Review

3 4 7 10 21 22 23 24 28 34 38 41 49

Apr. 1: Easter Sunday Apr. 13-15: Songkran Apr. 22: Earth Day Apr. 25: NNR Art Studio Tour, p. 4 Apr. 27: Comedy Den Pakkret, p. 38 Apr. 28: Secret Garden (Songkran Fair), p. 26 May 18: Save the Date! NNR Farewell/Mini Bazaar

Cover photo by Piercarlo Abate

Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach April 2018

Lanterns in the Night Photo taken in Chiangmai, Thailand www.updownallaround.com

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NNR April Tour

NNR Tour: April 25th Art Studio Tour On April 25th, please join us for an amazing tour of the studio and art gallery PAJ’Art Studio managed by celebrated French sculptor Arnaud Nazare-Aga who will give us a private tour. You will be able to see how the pieces are made and wander through the 1000 square metre gallery to admire the art. (Purchases at the studio receive a 20% discount!)

Arnaud was born in Paris in 1965. He received plasterer/molder training and was educated in a Buddhist community in Burgundy. Arnaud and his wife Adeline established their workshop PAJ’Art Studio in Bangkok seven years ago and now have 25 people working under Arnaud’s direction.

Arnaud has an extensive bio. The fruits of his labor were showcased in May 2015 at two world-premiere art exhibitions in Singapore presented by the Antoine de Saint-Exupery Youth Foundation. The exhibitions were part of the French cultural festival, Voilah! organized by the French Embassy and Institut Français in Singapore.

His exhibition was displayed in Hong Kong at Pacific Place from 25 November 2015 until 1 January 2016. The collection was adapted for the visually impaired and had 124,000 visitors in 38 days. Then, in May 2016, the Two Little Prince exhibitions were presented in South Korea’s national museum, the Gyeonngi Provincial Museum, for almost five months.

The next exhibition will be in the Singapore Philatelic Museum beginning on 7th June 2018 lasting until March 2019.

After the studio visit, we will have lunch at Humming Birds Kitchen and Garden, a French-Thai restaurant, a favorite of the actors of the cinema studio next door. We will be back at ISB by 2 pm.

Pascale Kervyn and Susanne Rodrigues, NNR Tour Coordinators When: Wednesday, April 25th, at 8:30 am Where: ISB, in front of Chevron Theater Cost: 700 baht What to bring: Hat, camera and a good mood.

Clark Hatch pass if you have it!

To sign up: Please Email: nnrtour@gmail.com The tour is limited to 12 participants.

Greetings from your travel team Pascale and Susanne 4

Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach

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April 2018

Highlights of the NNR Tour to Ayutthaya

After a delayed start due to rain, we arrived in good time for the NNR tour to the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya - the ancient city of Thailand (1350-1767). In 1991 UNESCO designated Ayutthaya a world heritage sites.

Our first stop was to the Crypt of Wat Ratchaburana which is considered the largest of its kind in Thailand.

We saw restored frescoes deep inside the crypt of the main temple (accessible by steep stairs). During its time it contained various kinds of gold objects which were the king’s personal possessions, as well as other objects offered to worship Buddha. Our second stop was to the beautiful Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the ruins of the former royal palace with its three Chedis. Last, we visited Wat Chaiwattanram next to the river.

We had lunch by the river at Baan Watcharachai.

It was such a great day with a lovely bunch of ladies (and man). Many thanks to Pascale Kervyn for taking us on the tour and for providing us with historical background during the tour including an informative depiction of life for women during that time. Highly recommend this tour, Ayutthaya is a very easy day trip from Nichada. Looking forward to the next NNR tour!

Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach

Natalie Saunders April 2018

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Highlights: March Social

Highlights: NNR March 24th Running Dinner Twenty pairs of Nichada residents participated in the March 2018 Running Dinner, enjoying a delicious 3-course meal with each course served at one of the 15 homes participating in the fun evening. Fabulous generosity was shown by the wonderful hosts who opened up their beautiful homes! THANK YOU FOR SIGNING UP FOR RUNNING DINNER! Special thanks to Vapor restaurant for staying open late to host the after party. A very special thank you to Alyson Espinoza Diaz and Birgit Sund for their insight, patience and good times checking and cross checking!

Planning the event was as much fun as attending because of you!

Chantal Bremner

Nonthaburi Neighborhood Reach April 2018

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April 2018

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Cover Story

Expat Men Who Are Trailing Spouses When my children were toddlers, I knew of only one stay-at-home dad in my Bangkok neighborhood.

He joined our play group and threw birthday parties and chauffeured his kids to activities. His wife was a finance executive for an oil company, and he was the one who put his career on hold to take care of things on the home front.

Fast forward to 2018 and here in our suburban expat community, I’m meeting a growing number of men who are trailing spouses and stay-at-home dads. Their wives’ work brought the family to Thailand, and what works for them is for the dad to stay home.

In addition to the five men featured in this month’s cover story, there are lots of other men in our

community who are also trailing spouses. For example, before landing an embassy job recently, Michael McGranahan was a stay-at-home dad who volunteered as a bartender at the “Mom-mosas” gathering and joined other neighborhood events as well. At ISB, several men whose wives work at the school are also trailing spouses.

On the following pages, five men share their stories of what it’s like to be the trailing spouse on an overseas assignment. They share the challenges as well as the rewards. I thank them for sharing their stories.

Liz Lu Editor, Thani Talk

Kevin Sypolt: Investment Banker

2007: Arrive in Bangkok. Starting as stay-at-home dad My name is Kevin Sypolt. I moved to Thailand in 2007 with my wife, Jan Van Ekeren and our three children – Philip, Austin and Ellen. My wife, Jan, was asked to take the position of Chief Financial Officer of Krungsri Bank. Jan and I lived previously in Chicago, London, Singapore, Hong Kong and Connecticut. I worked in investment banking for UBS and Merrill Lynch. In our previous moves, both of us were able to continue to work for our respective organizations but that was not an option for me when we moved to 10 Than

Thailand. Thus, we decided that I would stay home with the kids as part of this move.

The kids had always wanted one of us to not work, so they were generally happy that I would be home.

For them having me home provided some stability as part of our move. Though after about a month of me making sure they had completed their homework each night before video games, they weren’t so excited to have me there.

Being the trailing spouse gave me the freedom to pursue some of my own interests. I became friends with an adult swimming group. This expanded into biking and running to the point where I competed in some adventure races and some triathlons. At one point I was probably the most fit I had been since college.

I am an accountant by trade so I was able to use my accounting experience to assist the community. Over the years I was on the Board of Trustees at ISB as Treasurer and I served as Treasurer for Chaengwattana Community Church, the Panther Swim Team, the Bangkok Baseball Softball Association (BBSA) and North Bangkok Basketball Association (NBBL).

One of my passions is providing opportunities for our youth to participate in extra-curricular activities. I worked with ISB on the logistics of what is now the Community Activity Office (CAO). I am most proud that I was involved in getting the school to become more directly involved in supporting the community activities. I think these activities differentiate ISB from other international schools in Bangkok. I argued to the ISB administration that without these activities

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Cover Story

that the enrollment at ISB would be significantly smaller.

I used my accounting and investment banking background to teach a short seminar to ISB seniors prior to graduation on money, budgeting and investing.

But I guess the school declined to invite me back when some students said I was using too many technical terms such as “interest”. Really!! They actually said that.

I was fortunate to get to know and work with many people in the Nichada Thani community. It got to be a bit funny at parties when I would introduce my wife, Jan. With her work responsibilities, she did not know many people in the community. She was taken aback by how many people knew me. Friends were not really sure if Jan existed because they rarely got a chance to see her.

Of course the opposite occurred when I would join Jan for American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) events. Everyone knew Jan. And when they found out I was “just” the trailing spouse, the business people did not have much interest in talking to me.

Many men would tell me and their spouses that they were jealous of my situation as the trailing spouse. I would hear men sometimes say “in my next life, I want to come back as Kevin”. One of my friends told me recently that a couple of her daughters’ male friends April 2018

said they wanted a life like mine in Thailand.

Now in 2018, our three children have now all graduated from ISB and are in university in the United States. Our oldest is due to graduate in May. Jan retired a couple of years ago from Krungsri Bank.

Now we split our time between our place in Mansions in the Park, our condo in downtown Bangkok, our US home near Seattle and just traveling. For instance, we just returned from a 51-day cruise that departed from Miami; sailed through the Panama Canal; then went south along the western coast of South America; around Cape Horn; back up the east side of South America and ended in Rio de Janeiro. Jan and I always enjoy coming back to Thailand and to Nichada for a few months each year.

In terms of words of wisdom to other men who are the trailing spouse: 1) Come to terms with the fact that you aren’t working. You can still make a huge contribution to your family and your community without going to work each day; 2) Support your wife and her career as much as you can. Try to avoid the kids needing things from your wife when she gets home from work. I would try to go into the city as often as I could to meet my wife for dinner. I would usually bring a bottle of wine to share while we sat in the inevitable Bangkok traffic; and 3) There are so many ways you can find to occupy your time. Find a hobby, try a new sport, learn a new language, etc. The Nichada Thani and ISB communities need people to be involved so look for ways to use your work skills to assist others.

Kevin Sypolt

2016: How time flies. Ellen’s high school graduation.

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Cover Story

Piercarlo Abate: Advertising Executive, Photographer

Nationality: I am a native Italian but I have dual citizenship (Italian/American) Home town: Treviso (Italy) Children: Isabella (15) and Rocco (10). Both go to ISB Other foreign postings: In my early thirties I lived in the Dominican Republic working as a photographer for an Italian photo company. My girlfriend (and future wife) Lisa joined me there from California. We stayed for three and a half years then we moved to Austin, Texas, where we both worked for the State of Texas.

Our children were both born in Austin. After that, we moved to New York City to start my wife’s career with the United Nations (UNICEF). There I got a job at Shutterstock (an international photo agency). We stayed in New York for three years.

Profession before overseas assignment: I have a degree in advertising and that was my job when I was

in Italy. Then, when I moved to the US, I pursued a master’s degree in Instructional Systems Development (building e-learning systems for public or private entities) so I started to work in that field. At the same time I also opened a photo studio in Austin, Texas, working at the studio on weekends and evenings.

Moved to Thailand: 10 months ago Organization that brought family to Thailand: United Nations (UNICEF) How family decided to have Dad be the stay-athome parent: When we were offered the possibility to move to Thailand, my biggest challenge was to leave a job that I really liked. However, at my age (I am 54), I also considered that a new life path could be a positive scenario. Considering that most likely we will move again in four years, I also see the stay-at-home parent arrangement as transitional.

What do kids think of Dad being the stay-at-home parent: Rocco, 10 : “It’s nice to have him around.”

Advantages of being the stay-at-home parent: Time to focus on things I never had the time to focus on before. For example, I am really interested in Java Script and have begun a course. I never had time for that while working full time.

Disadvantages: Gaps in my CV and the risk of becoming obsolete in my field (that’s another reason 12

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Cover Story for the Java Script course) Biggest challenge in being the stay-at-home parent: I think you need to keep yourself organized and your day full, you need to stick to a schedule.

How did you overcome the challenge: I have a daily routine that includes exercise, study, photography, and I keep track of my weekly goals.

What activities are you involved in?

Volunteering - visiting prisoners in Nonthanburi.

Sports - Bicycling and Muay Thai What part-time jobs, if any, do you have? I am working on increasing my stock photography library What advice would you give other men who are also, or thinking of being, the trailing spouse/stay-at-home parent on the family’s overseas assignment?

I think that you need to be clear about what you want to gain with this time and also to have an open conversation with your spouse to set expectations.

Any other insights you’d like to share with readers: I think it is an invaluable time to get organized, but it is important to not see it as an early retirement. Always have a goal you are heading to.

Piercarlo Abate

Rino Leclerc: Policeman Nationality: Canadian Home town: Grand-Falls, New-Brunswick (NB) Children: Two adult children. Marc-Andre, who will be turning 24 in April, is a soldier with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and based in Valcartier Quebec Canada. Our daughter Karine who will be turning 22 in May is presently completing a massage therapist course and is resident on the South-Shore of Montreal.

Profession before accompanying spouse and family on overseas assignment: I was a police officer for 27 years with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Number of years in Thailand: We have been in Thailand for the past 20 months.

Organization that brought family to Thailand: The Canadian Federal Government How family arrived at the decision to have you as the trailing spouse: Just a couple of weeks into my retirement, my wife received an offer to work at the Canadian Embassy here in Bangkok. The fact that I wasn’t employed and that both our kids were able “to fly” on their own made it easy to make a sound decision by accepting this mission.

What do the kids think of you being the trailing April 2018

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Cover Story

Rino: Policeman (continued) spouse: Both of our kids were very supportive and encouraged us to move to Thailand.

Advantages of being the trailing spouse: I would have to say that it gives me more free time to actually do activities that I enjoy doing...taking time for moi!

Biggest challenge in being the trailing spouse: Getting bored How did you overcome the challenge: Staying active by doing volunteer work, playing sports, visiting Thailand and neighboring countries etc..

Most memorable moment or incident as a trailing spouse: I think the most memorable moment(s) is that we are given the opportunity to be abroad here in Asia and getting exposed to different cultures...

What activities are you active in? I enjoy playing tennis, walking-jogging, swimming and cycling.

In addition, I do volunteer work at the Home for the Destitutes (H4D). What do we do at H4D you ask yourself? We socialise and interact with the Cambodian refugee children that are being detained by the Thai government for immigration reasons.

What part-time jobs, if any, do you have? Non applicable What advice would you give other men who are also, or thinking of being, the trailing spouse/ stay-at-home parent on the family’s overseas assignment? The best advise that I can give to a stayat-home spouse is to “stay busy and active� even if this means finding a job or doing volunteer work.

Rino Leclerc

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Cover Story

Dan Friendly: Computer Engineer, Adjunct Professor

Nationality: USA Home town: I grew up in New Jersey, but the annual grandparent tour takes us to Cleveland, Ohio, and northern Michigan.

Children: Three boys, 15-year-old twins and our youngest is 12. All three attend New International School Thailand (NIST).

Other foreign postings before Bangkok: Hanoi, Vietnam - 5 years Gaborone, Botswana - 2.5 years Panama City, Panama - 2 years Phnom Penh, Cambodia - 4 years Vientian, Lao PDR - 1.5 years (All for my wife Amy’s work.)

Profession before accompanying spouse and family on overseas assignment: Computer engineering, microprocessor design. I was an adjunct professor before our twins were born.

Number of years in Thailand: Less than a year.

Organization that brought family to Thailand: FHI-360 How family arrived at the decision to have Dad be the stay-at-home parent: Long before we were married, Amy and I were talking about our life goals. Amy said she wanted to work in international development and I said I’d like to raise children who turn out to be good people. 30 years later we consider ourselves very lucky to doing just that.

April 2018

What do the kids think of Dad being the stay-athome parent: About six years ago, Jed was reading aloud to me and got stuck on the word “husband.”

He decided “assistant” was a reasonable enough substitute. That pretty accurately describes their understanding of my role.

Advantages of being the stay-at-home parent: We’ve been lucky enough to live in places where the norm is to outsource much of the drudgery of housekeeping. So I’m a stay-at-home parent that doesn’t have to scrub toilets. That means I get to spend a huge amount of time with my boys and can instigate some pretty elaborate play. Because I’m kind of nerdy, much of that ends up science based. For instance, when they were pretty young, 4 and 7 or so, we spent a fair amount of time talking about Newton’s laws of motion and built balloon powered rockets, baking soda and vinegar driven Lego cars, etc to give them a feel for how it works.

But we’ve also done a backyard play every year for

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Cover Story

Biggest challenge in being the stay-at-home parent: It can be isolating. You have to be proactive in seeking out grown-up conversation. Or like me, be content with the semi-solitude.

What activities are you active in?

I play a lot of ultimate frisbee. And now the boys are playing too. I have always been involved with the kids’ schools. I have been on the boards of the last two schools, and this year hope to get elected to their current school board.

What part-time jobs, if any, do you have?

I dabble in photography but haven’t bothered looking for a paying gig in years. While in Hanoi, a friend and 16

Eric Lim

the past 6 or 7 years -- a handful of Shakespeare as well as a some Greek tragedy and a Christmas Carol.

It’s always wildly abridged but even then it’s a month or more of learning lines; then a mad push to figure out some half-baked staging; and finally perform to whatever friends and neighbors are unfortunate enough to get roped into watching a half hour of 10-year-olds doing Macbeth.

Disadvantages: I’m the one who has to say pick up your socks, brush your teeth, do the dishes, etc. So, much as I hate to admit this, I’m the mean parent.

I set up an online wine delivery service, although that was more for the elaborate wine tastings involved than as a source of income.

What advice would you give other men who are also, or thinking of being, the trailing spouse/ stay-at-home parent on the family’s overseas assignment?

It’s great work if you can get it.

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Cover Story

Michael Bush: Writer, Musician, Tutor

Nationality: ‘Murican (USA) Home town: Dothan, Alabama Children: Lucas (age 9) 4th grader at ISB, Jonas (age 4) at home with me.

Other foreign postings before Bangkok: 2011-2015 in Shanghai, China, with YCIS (my wife Merissa’s job), 2015-2017 in Penang, Malaysia, with Uplands (my wife’s job) Profession before accompanying spouse and family on overseas assignment: Claim Processor with State Farm Insurance Number of years in Thailand: This is our first year living here, but we’ve been avid visitors since 2011.

Organization that brought family to Thailand: My wife works for ISB as a 6th grade Learning Support Teacher How family arrived at the decision to have Dad be the stay-at-home parent: Back in the United States one of Merissa’s coworkers said they were going to move overseas and teach. We were like, “You can do that???” And so began the overseas job search. She ended up getting an offer to work in Shanghai and accepted it. The money was more than we both made in the US put together, so it was an easy decision. Since I was on her visa, I would not be allowed to work. So, I became a stay-at-home dad.

What do the kids think of Dad being the stay-athome parent: They have never really known any other way. Lucas was three when we moved to China, and he doesn’t remember much from before that. Jonas was April 2018

born in Shanghai, so it’s natural for him, too. I’m the resident chef, shopper, and chauffeur, so when the kids see Merissa doing any of those things they’re shocked.

“Mommy, you know how to cook?!?” “Mommy, you can drive?!?” “Mommy is buying groceries?!?”

Advantages of being the stay-at-home parent: I have been able to spend some really important time with Jonas at home, getting to experience his development from birth to entering Pre-K next year at ISB. In the States, I got to be home with Lucas for two weeks before having to get back to work. I feel so fortunate to have been able to be a part of this portion of his life and I wish that I had been able to do so with Lucas, as well. Though, even with Lucas, I was able to take him to school every morning and pick him up every day for the past seven years. That time in the mornings and afternoons was very special and something I wasn’t able to do back home due to commute times. Also, I have time in the day to focus on other things as a stayat-home. In China, over four years I learned Mandarin fairly well and formed a rock band that toured the country over the course of three years. I also had time to write and publish two novels during my time as a stay-at-home parent.

Disadvantages: This may sound crazy, but boredom is real as a stay-at-home dad. Not in the beginning, mind you. It was awesome to have so much free time at first.

But this is year seven and I’m getting a little stir crazy.

I don’t have much social interaction with other adults.

It’s so rare that I speak to another adult that I usually talk people’s ears off when I get the chance.

Biggest challenge in being the stay-at-home parent: The biggest challenge is definitely, in my case at least,

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socializing. I’m not athletic, I’m not a woman, and I’m not very religious. That really limits the social outings where I fit in.

The stay-at-home community is mostly geared towards women, and men are often not considered when it comes to meet ups. I’ve been told that I cannot attend some events because they were “for moms” and they wouldn’t feel comfortable with a man there. It’s hard to get playdates sometimes, as well. I do realize this isn’t the case with all activities, especially here. My experience spans three countries, so I’m generalizing when I say these things. But even in Nichada, the activities lean towards women. I’m not complaining, just making an observation. When an event is called “Massages and Mom-osas” it doesn’t really feel like a place I’d be welcome. But hey, I like mimosas and massages, too!

Now, I’m not saying that all events should be for everyone. It is important for people to get together and bond over their shared experiences. The problem is that most groups and events for stay-at-home parents here (and other places I’ve lived abroad) are actually groups for moms. Dads are often left out. When I say this, people always say, “Why don’t you start a group?”

Because I’m busy and don’t want to, honestly. I would join a group, but I have no desire to start one. That kind of job isn’t for everyone, you know? And because our stay-at-home dad community is much smaller, it’s hard to get enough people interested. We had a decent guy’s group in China for a year or two but it was mostly going out for beers at night. That was great, but I’m looking for things to do during the day when the mae bahn can watch the little one and the rest of the family is at school/work.

It would just be nice to have a stay-at-home parent meet up where dads could feel welcome. There is no blame to be placed in this situation, so please don’t take offense. A lot of this could be due to my own insecurity at getting turned away so many times from other groups in other countries, but I have yet to find a group here that seems a good fit for me.

Most memorable moment or incident as a stay-athome parent: Getting to be there for the first steps and first words with Jonas. I missed those with Lucas and it was always a sore spot. Lucas’s first word was “Mama” and Jonas’s first word was “Dada” and that made me feel pretty awesome.

What activities are you active in? None. Again, this is really just me being hard to please I reckon. I am not very outdoorsy, and I’m not an active person. I’d love to join a book club, but I read science fiction and fantasy for the most part. I’d love to join a group of musicians but I play punk rock. So, despite my earlier 18

rant, I am sure there are clubs/groups where I would be welcome but probably not many (or any) where I would feel comfortable. And that is no one’s fault. I am a writer, so if any stay-at-homes out there want to start a writing club, I’ll join!

What part-time jobs, if any, do you have? Over the past seven years I’ve been a substitute teacher, an English teacher at an after-school kindergarten, and a tutor. Currently, I am only doing after-school tutoring as I am also attending school full-time in pursuit of a degree in psychology.

What advice would you give other men who are also, or thinking of being, the trailing spouse/ stay-at-home parent on the family's overseas assignment? My advice would be to follow your heart.

If you want to do it, then do it. If you don’t then don’t.

Everyone is different and has different needs. Some people cannot handle this lifestyle. For me, it has been great, but I definitely feel the end is near. I need to get back into the workforce and connect with people again. #hermitlifeaintforme Any other insights you'd like to share with readers: WARNING: SHAMELESS SELF-PROMOTION ALERT! I am a writer and have sold many articles to online magazines and written for some print, as well.

In addition, my novels are available on Amazon to any who are interested in urban fantasy and science fiction.

Here are some links to all of that if you’re interested: https://www.eatplaywritetravel.com/online-articles https://www.amazon.com/J-M-Bush/e/B01JELA48I/ ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1522027620&sr=8-2

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Michael Bush

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Feature

Life in the Bubble

The Adventures of Line Kjærgaard’s Running Shoes

I went for my first run in Nichada. It was a rainy morning, so after the run I left my shoes to dry on the roof of my golf chart.

However, I forgot all about my shoes and went cruising in Nichada.

Then, just before my next exercise my shoes were missing. Apparently they had fallen off from the top of my golf cart while I was cruising around in Nichada.

I was encouraged to post the missing shoes on Facebook and assured I would get them back again.

(Yeah, right, what are the odds?)

But then I got a post that someone had seen one shoe, and another person had brought it to the guard at Premier 3.

And on my way to the Premier 3 guard, I happened to spot the other shoe in front of the Casa guard’s booth!

So happy I got both of my shoes back, I could call off the search and go for my next run - Thanks to the neighbours and guards in Nichada :-) What are the odds: In Nichada they are good!

Line Kjærgaard April 2018

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Fitness & Activities

Nichada Neighborhood Neighborhood Nichada Community Fitness & Activities Listings Community Fitness & Activities Listings Yoga Classes

Ashtanga Yoga with PanZen PanZen, 097-227-6999 panzenyoga@hotmail.com http://panzenyoga.wix.com/panzen

Alignment Based Yoga with Napisa Napisa Pant, 086-975-7187 napisapant.yoga@gmail.com FB: yogawithnapisa

Power Vinyasa Yoga Kelly Poret, 061-872-7534 yogaporet@gmail.com FB: kellyporetyoga

Iyengar Yoga Juan Bodan, 081-285-3050 http://kripa-yoga.com/

Monday Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Napisa Restorative 8:45-10:15 Napisa Evening 5:30-6:45 pm

Yoga Schedule Wednesday

Tuesday Power Vinyasa Yoga 7:45-9:00 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Kundalini Beginners 9:30-11:00 Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45 Power Vinyasa Yoga 5:30-6:30 pm

Kundalini All Levels 7:45-9:1 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Napisa Level I-II 8:45-10:15 Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45

Thursday Power Vinyasa Yoga 7:45-8:45 Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:15 Ashtanga Yoga PanZen 3:45-4:45 Napisa Teen Yoga 5:00-6:00 pm

Pilates

Iyengar Yoga 7:50-9:20 Napisa Beginner I-II 8:45-10:15

Learn TM (Transcendental Meditation) Expert instruction by a 35-year teacher of meditation. Â Contact Ellie: eedelhoff@hotmail.com www.TM.org www.DavidLynchFoundation.org

Sport

Dance

Zumba Chaengwattana Community Church Mon, Wed & Friday FB: Zumba Nichada Thani Class fee donated to charity!

Friday

Meditation

Das PowerHaus Pilates Mat Mon-Friday - See link on FaceBook to register online Joanna Brittingham, 089846-6610 Joanna.brittingham@gmail.com FB: DasPowerHaus Nichada

Bollywood Dance Suitable for all levels!

Wed & Thurs 9:30-10:30 Afternoon Classes: Tues or Wed 5:00-6:00 Contact Irit: 086-004-4840 iritmike@gmail.com

Kundalini Yoga Kerstin Wilde, 086-372-9750 kerstin.bangkok@gmail.com www.yoga-of-awareness.com Private classes available

Masters Swimming - Nichada Pool, Tues & Thurs 7:30-8:30.

Contact: Catherine Miller, solviken66@hotmail.com Biking - Meet at Seechaitong gate! Weekday rides on Mon & Wed at 7:30 Contact: Henrietta Bullinger, hbullinger@gmail.com. Weekends at 7:00 am.

Contact: Chris Oglesby, coglesby@hotmail.com Tennis with Coach Sagi - Nichada tennis courts.

Contact: Sagi Luft, 092-271-2110, sagiluft@hotmail.com

Tutorials World English - Oral English & composition instruction, 30 yrs exp Deborah Funthorn, BA, MFA, TESL, 083-055-9785, debhata@yahoo.com Piano Lessons - Exp. professional from Westover School in Connecticut capricio310@gmail.com, 091-878-6283

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April 2018

Nonthaburi & Beyond

Nonthaburi & Beyond Thailand Motor Show Until April 8 Venue: Challenger 1-3 Muang Thong Thani Mon-Fri: 12:00- 22:00 Sat/Sun 11_00-22:00 Entrance fee: 100 baht

Katy Perry Witness the Tour April 10 8:30 pm Venue: Impact Arena Muang Thong Thai Tickets are 10,000 baht (VIP)/ 7,500/ 6,500/ 5,500/ 4,500, 3,500 baht Tickets available at: Thai Ticket Major Tel. 02 262 3456 Website: www. thaiticketmajor.com

Disney on Ice Everyone’s Story LAST DAY: April 1 Show times: 10:30 am 14:30 am/ 18:30 am Tickets are 2,500 / 1,700/ 1,500/ 1,200/ 600 baht Ticket available at Thai Ticket Major Tel. 02 262 3456 Website: www. thaiticketmajor.com

20th Mos Tata April 21 7 pm Venue: Impact Arena Muang Thong Thai Tickets are 4,000/ 3,500 3,000/ 2,500/ 2,000/ 1,500/ 1,200 baht Tickets available at: Thai Ticket Major Tel. 0 2262 3456 Website: www. thaiticketmajor.com

Style Fair at BITEC April 19- 23 Enjoy 3 Fairs in One Visit

Spartan Thailand 2018 Registration Deadline is April 30

After Songkran, shop ‘til you drop at the April 19 23 Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC) off of Bangnatrad highway.

Catch three popular fairs in one visit: The BIG & BIH exhibitions for home appliances, gifts and handmade crafts.

In addition, you can visit the Thailand International Furniture Fair (TIFF) at the same venue. See the latest designer products for home decor as well as retail use.

TRADE: 19 - 21 April 2018 (10 am -6 pm) PUBLIC 22-23 April 2018 (10 am -9 pm) Venue : EH 98 – 105 ******************* April 2018

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Spartan Race is an obstacle course race that pushes competitors to the limit. Worldwide, more than 240 races are held in 25 countries. In Thailand, the 2018 race will be held on May 19 at the Siam Country Club in Chonburi.

Deadline for registration is April 30.

Visit Spartan’s Facebook page at Spartan Race Thailand.

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Community News

Cadette Girl Scouts Tackle Single-Use Plastics

We are sixth grade Girl Scouts at ISB, and our aim is to make a difference while completing the third, and last, part of our journey called, “Breathe: It’s Your Planet, Love It”.

The first step of our journey was to become aware of the air and environment around us. We learned about the characteristics of air and even invited a speaker from the UN to talk to us about air quality.

The second part of our journey was called “Alert,” where we realized that one of the most important issues right now is how we are polluting the world’s oceans, lakes, rivers and beaches with plastic. That was the problem we decided to tackle.

To earn the final “Affirm” badge (which we are working on currently), we plan to create a campaign bringing awareness to the harmful effects of plastic use.

This will include writing letters to restaurants about the harmful effects of single-use plastic straws and bags.

We will also encourage ISB students to take a pledge not to use plastics for one week. Our campaign will coincide with Earth Day which is April 22.

Below are some facts we have learned that have inspired us to take a stand against single use plastic: • 500 million plastic straws are used a discarded daily.

• 160,000 plastic bags are used globally every second. That is enough to go around the world seven times!

• The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is a floating landfill twice the size of Texas! It is mostly composed of plastic.

• On average Americans throw away 185 pounds of plastic per person annually.

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• 6,000,000 sea birds and 100,000 marine animals are killed annually from plastic in our oceans.

We in Troop 40012 are inspired by several plastic bans in Asia and around the world. It is our hope that we can be a part of the solution as we work towards the elimination of single-use plastics in Thailand, our oceans, Asia, and around the world.

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Kate Kabat Troop 40012

April 2018

Community News American Women’s Club

Casual Connections Nichada: April 5th Songkran Celebration On Thursday April 5th, the American Women’s Club Casual Connections Nichada will be hosting a “Happy Songkran Celebration” at Vapor Restaurant from 11 am to 2 pm.

There is no time like now to embrace the essence of Thainess, the wonder of Thai culture! Songkran is the most popular, most cherished and most celebrated festival in Thailand.

Transform yourself and dress up in your own interpretation of Songkran fashion to win prizes. Come eat and drink or just hang out with friends old and new from around the world.

Everyone is welcome. Member or nonmember alike. Just come on over if you feel like making some international connections.

No need to RSVP. It’s open air and open house, Thai style!

Suchada Smith

Distributors for

Thani Talk

needed for next school year

Save the Date!

Sunshine N1/ N2 The Niche Tropical Residence & Condos

Interested?

Contact:

Alyson (alysonespinoza@gmail.com) or Birgit Sund (birgit@sund2.dk) April 2018

May 18th

NNR Farewell Coffee and Mini Bazaar

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Travel

India: Jaipur Literature Festival ‘Greatest literary show on Earth’ Jaipur Literature Festival is the largest free literature festival in the world and I have been lucky enough to attend five times, the first two times while still living in India, the last three travelling from Thailand to enjoy this “Kumbh of Literature”.

JLF is literature in the widest sense, combining fiction and non-fiction, poetry and prose, politics, history and entertainment. The audience and authors are diverse and global. The first year I went the Dalai Lama was the keynote speaker. He opened the festival in his usual manner, combining humor with wisdom.

The venue was packed but it was not chaotic.

A couple of years back I met my teenage hero and feminist icon, Gloria Steinam, still sharp and graceful at 80 plus. Amazing, not only to hear her speak so eloquently on stage, but then only shortly after, to be sitting next to her in the audience at a book reading. I have heard people whose names were unfamiliar - Atul Gwande, US surgeon and author of “Being Mortal” whose sincere and intelligent manner led me to buy and read one of my favorite books of the past few years.

I have also been able to put a face to favorite authors such as Cheryl Stayed who writes about her 1000 mile hike through the US in “Wild” and Shauna Singh Baldwin whose book “What the Body Remembers”

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profoundly influenced my appreciation of Indian culture and history.

One of the most impressive panel discussions was a round table looking at the complex and strategic relationship between the US and Pakistan and unraveling the turbulent histories of misperception and miscommunication featuring former Pakistani envoy to the US, Husain Haqqani, the US diplomat and author Robert Blackwill (‘Magnificent Delusions”) in conversation with Shyam Saran.

JLF is held at Diggi Palace in the center of Jaipur, Rajasthan. There are several different stages with parallel events throughout the five day festival. Often there are a couple of themes running through the program: women, East West relations, travel, etc.

There are plenty of food options for lunch and snacks and of course retail opportunities. It is also a feast for the eyes and a great place to people watch.

Especially at the weekend, it is packed!! The festival attracts many local students and school children who take advantage of this showcase for some of the world’s greatest writers and thinkers. I would in fact avoid Saturday and Sunday; enjoy the first two opening days and spend the weekend discovering Jaipur.

Each day starts with music, you can drink your chai out of earthenware cups and browse the JFL catalogue highlighting the interesting sessions for the

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Travel

day. Remember to buy some of the books and get the authors to sign your copy.

But you can do more than just listen to thought provoking panel discussions, meet authors you have always admired, or let the soft sound of a reading lull you into another world.

Jaipur itself is worth a visit and if you want to take a break from the festival, you can visit various amazing sites such as the Hawal Mahal, the red and pink sandstone “Palace of Winds”, where the royal women used to peer out at the street life without having to show their faces. We played hide and seek there with our boys – the only way we could tempt them to visit another historic site.

Jantar Mantar is a collection of almost two dozen astronomical and architectural structures – amazing to imagine the science at work almost 300 years ago.

Amber (Amer) Fort a little outside of Jaipur itself is also well worth a visit. You can take an elephant from the road to the top; my feeling was that each elephant had its own speed and that the mahout was just there for the ride.

Jaipur is also a great place to shop, from traditional block printing cottons, to silver and semi-precious stone jewelry, blue pottery, as well as a host of traditional and modern Indian clothes. Combine a visit to JLF with touring the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) or use this as a starting point to discover more of Rajasthan’s colour and magic (Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Pushkar).

I plan to go again next year to get my fix of thoughtful debate and dialogue and to support the JLF’s core value to serve as a platform for democratic, nonaligned conversation offering free and fair access.

April 2018

Logistics: You can fly direct to Jaipur or stop over in Delhi. If you plan in advance the train from Delhi is a real experience and very cheap. Go for the first class airconditioned car, but you have to book well ahead (tickets go on sale 90 days before travel date).

Lodging and Resources I have always stayed at Khandela Haveli – mid range boutique hotel: great food, friendly staff, lovely rooftop terrace. http://www.khandelahaveli. com/ We have also stayed at Shapura house, but this fills up quickly around JLF. http://www.shahpura.com/ about-heritage-hotels-in-jaipur/ I can highly recommend Emma Horne as an advisor for your trip. She can personalize your itinerary and has several amazing India options. www.emmahornetravel.com, emma@ emmahornetravel.com Details of the Festival https://jaipurliteraturefestival.org/.

Remember to register online before going. Receipt on your handheld is sufficient, no need to print.

Just a few of the shopping options: Ridhi Sidhi Textiles https://www.facebook.com/ridhisidhitextiles Mr Mansury - stonexgems@yahoo.co.in Mr Mansoor Khan - www.Jewelslakepalace.com Blue Pottery - http://www.neerjainternational.com/

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Henrietta Bullinger

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Heard it Through the Grapevine

Heard it Through the Grapevine

This column offers a chance to share all those good finds and tips that are helpful to others.

If you have tips to share, please send them to Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com

OC Organic Farm: Another Option for Healthy Eating

OC Organic Farm

Jum Napis offers a wonderful selection of fresh organic vegetables delivered right to your door. I chose the weekly delivery of a small bag of mixed lettuce, and as she posts special offerings each week, I can add to my delivery if I want something extra. Payment is on delivery. The products come washed, fresh and crisp every time. I love knowing that I will have fresh lettuce, at the very least, every week without having to think about it!

Chantal Bremner OC Organic Farm Tel: 083-604-8333 Line: jumnapis. Whatsapp: jum143

Wat Bang Chat

Sara Tighe

If you’re looking for a short trip to take visitors and family but don’t want to head downtown, look no further than Wat Bang Chat. Here you will find the giant Golden Buddha on the banks of the Chao Phraya River and a huge collection of statues depicting the stages of Buddha’s life. Take some time to look around and explore, there are some great photo opportunities and there is something for everyone. Just opposite on the other side of the road is the recently completed Erawan elephant. It’s a real showstopper, not to be missed.

To round out the trip, head 50 meters up the road and have lunch at River Wine restaurant. It has a nice Thai style menu and a relaxed atmosphere with seating both inside and out along the river. To get there you can ride your bike, 7.2km to the Pakkret Pier or it’s a 15 minute drive. It’s a 5 baht ferry ride across and there’s plenty of parking at the pier.

Sara Tighe 34

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April 2018

Heard it Through the Grapevine

Je Khai Seafood Market & Restaurant

Fresh seafood market right at the restaurant

Levi Renno

Je Khai Seafood Restaurant located on Prachachuen Road less than four miles from Nichada and about 20 minutes away depending on traffic. It’s not too pricey and has a huge menu catering to seafood lovers and non-seafood fans as well. The most we spent was on a plate of lump crab meat in a yellow curry sauce that melted in your mouth. It was only 300 baht. They had plates of six huge steamed mussels with a spicy lime and cilantro sauce for only 150 baht. For the less daring, there are large breaded shrimp or even some traditional Thai dishes made with chicken or pork.

The atmosphere was clean, and they had great jazz music playing. At the entrance you will find an open seafood “market” style display where you can see the fresh offerings of the day including but not limited to huge crab, shrimp, assorted fish, and mussels. Friendly staff know enough English for easy ordering.

Jessica Renno

Shopping at Platinum Mall

Cherie Chan

Shopping till you drop in Platinum Mall? It can definitely be exhausting sifting and sorting through six floors of clothes, shoes and handbags… But when you are ready for a break, head to the “new” mall side; take the escalator to the top floor then look for another escalator behind a small coffee kiosk; and follow the signs to the Novotel for a lovely brunch buffet in a quiet, modern and spacious setting. If you drive yourself, you can validate your ticket there and parking is only 100 baht.

If you are looking for formals… there are many shops there selling dresses ranging from 1000 baht to 9000 baht.

But you can get a decent dress for an average of 3500 baht, then ask where to go for the 200 baht tailors to get the fit just right! Turnaround can be about 1 week with a few fittings. Sizes… are all over the place. Some stores are only S, M, L. Other places have a wider range with some stores catering to “larger sizes”. It’s a matter of hunting and searching.

Tara Visani April 2018

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April 2018

Writers & Photographers Wanted

Got a flair for writing?

Good with a camera?

Good at meeting deadlines?

Contact Liz at nnrnews@gmail.com

April 2018

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PEOPLE

Delfin Solomon Founder of Comedy Den Pakkret Would YOU rather? Take a long, bumper to bumper journey down the Srirat to town on a Friday evening OR walk, pedal, drive your golf cart over to the Nichada Club Function Room to meet friends and enjoy a hilarious comedy routine after a long week of work, school and/or parenting?

A very tempting choice made possible by local resident and comedian Delfin Solomon who started Comedy Den Pakkret with the goal of entertaining expats living outside of downtown. “The expat market here is more of a community and art to me is about community,” said Delfin who understands life as an expatriate. He is Indonesian but was born and raised in Bangkok and attended ISB for 12 years before graduating in 2005.

After ISB, Delfin obtained a Bachelor degree in Film/TV and worked in videography and advertising in Australia. Despite his interest in and love of filmmaking, he moved back to Thailand to act on a long held desire to be involved in comedy.

I asked Defin what fostered his passion for comedy.

He said, “The art of comedy just captivates and inspires me where people put themselves out there fighting embarrassment and nervousness to make people happy and also teach them to be aware of the world more... especially the truths of injustice, hypocrises, horrors that are common in all parts of the world socially and politically.”

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He started performing stand up comedy routines in 2013. Some of his most memorable experiences weren’t the times he generated the most laughs from the crowd. In fact, he estimates he’s bombed on stage about 15 times including his first routine, but he says “that taught me to be better, [to] learn how to fail in order the succeed…until I finally learned how to perform my first successful set on stage.” Defin said that experience was memorable “because I had my material organized, I delivered the jokes properly and achieved my kind of stage presence that connected with the audience.”

Valuable lessons that paid off indeed… Delfin was invited to perform in his first overseas gig in Vietnam in 2015 and was nominated to compete at the 2017 Hong Kong Comedy Competition.

When asked about his inspiration, Delfin states, “Saturday Night Live is what truly got me interested in the comedy world.” He was and still is a big fan of the work of Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, Robin Williams and Chevy Chase crediting watching these icons in American movies and on television with the beginning of his interest in comedy. “When time passed, I started watching stand up comedy coming across some of my favourite comedians now like George Carlin, Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock to name a few.”

“Right now I’m inspired by comedians who have been in the business for a long time but [are] not as popular as the big commercial ones and they deserve to be,” explained Delfin. Hearing about comedians from friends or surfing YouTube, he “discover[s} experienced or new talent on stage just killing it bringing all the laughs and I’m wondering why they are not super big?”

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PEOPLE

“Comedians around the world…who are working hard day after day to make people laugh and be as creative and original as possible inspire me, whether they are doing shows at theatre venues with over 300 people or just bars/clubs with over or under 50 people.”

Delfin has great lessons for those interesting in comedy and performing arts. “My advice…would be just go [out] there and do it, don’t be afraid, don’t think too much about failing because the more failure is incepted...in your mind, [the] the more likely it’s going to happen.” Understanding that success doesn’t always come quickly unless you happen to get lucky, he acknowledged “always have a plan B…to keep yourself stable mentally and financially when you’re trying to reach your goals in comedy [and] performing arts.”

Through his lessons, we get a sense of the path Delfin is on…choosing to do something he loves and working hard to follow his dreams. It’s hard work and there may be doubts from time to time but if you truly love it, it’s worth a shot!

Join Delfin’s Facebook group, Comedy Den Pakkret, to get information the upcoming show on April 27th and future events.

Ginny Condra April 2018

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April 2018

Charity News

Focus on Volunteers: Liz Garrigan Joins NNR Charity Committee

I am very pleased and happy to introduce Liz Garrigan as the newest member of the NNR Charity team. Liz will be joining the NNR Board as Cyndy Henry steps down to move back to Canada this summer. We will all miss Cyndy and her passion for helping others A LOT. Liz will join me in continuing to help support the important work of these charities.

Liz’s passion was immediately obvious, as she approached us with enthusiasm and was ready to jump in and help after only being in Nichada a short time. She has been touring the charities with me and has personally already been involved with the Bumblebee Free Library, the boys from I-Care Baan Poomwaet, and Home for Hope.

Liz is a North Carolina native, who moved to Nichada in October with her husband, Curt, and their two boys, who are in the third and fifth grades at ISB. After a 20-year journalism career in Nashville, followed by six years in Paris where she worked for an international news organization, Liz says “It’s the first opportunity I have had to put my journalism career on hold and focus solely on other priorities: chiefly, my kids and the NNR charities.”

“When we first arrived, I read all about the wonderful local charities the Nonthaburi Neighbourhood Reach (NNR) supports, both April 2018

financially and with volunteer time. I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of that, to be useful during my time in our adopted home. We enjoy and are surrounded by so much privilege, and I think it’s important to serve those who are less fortunate.”

Mare Harvey

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Charity News

Brownie BrowniesTroop TroopSupports Support Home Home for of Hope Hope

As part of the Girl Scout program, Brownie Troop 40001 has been working on their “It’s Your World Change It! A Leadership Journey” Brownie Quest.

During the Brownie Quest, the girls did activities and projects designed to help them discover more about their own talents, their connection to their families, school and communities, and the value of taking action to help make the world a better place.

In order to complete the quest, the girls in the troop needed to work as a team to identify a group or organization that needed help, plan an activity, and execute their plan.

With the help of the NNR and Father Paolo, the girls decided to visit the children at Home for Hope and bring crafts and treats to share with them.

Father Paolo and the children at Home for Hope were very welcoming, and the Brownies enjoyed taking a tour of the Home; teaching the children to make clothespin magnets and a travel Tic Tac Toe game; and sharing lots of goodies provided by the Brownie families.

Before the Troop departed for the evening, some of the boys from the Home for Hope performed a fun dance for everyone’s entertainment. The Brownies look forward returning to Home for Hope in the future.

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April 2018

Charity News

NNR Donations to Our Community

NNR NNRdonated donatednew newlockers lockersto toThanksgiving ThanksgivingHome.

Home. The girls The pose girls pose with their with theirs. new lockers.

(Above): NNR donated toiletries, cleaning products, hair clippers, and protein snacks to I-Care Baan Poomwaet Boy’s home. (Below): Book donations and other supplies for rescued girls at Kredtrakan center.

New kitchen supplies and equipment for Thanksgiving Home Learning Centre.

Classroom chairs donated to Kredtrakan shelter for girls rescued from human trafficking.

Donation of time to paint mural at Bang Feung Fa in their outdoor garden (Nicola from One Step Two Step worked with Jacob Ortwein and the ISB Middle School Design class to help out. The middle school students made the 3 dimensional bugs that are glued on the wall).

April 2018

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Charity News

Rewards of Volunteering Each week a dedicated group of volunteers headed up by Rebecca Armstrong visits the Home for the Destitute to spend time with young Cambodian children who are detained at the facility. These children and their mothers are awaiting processing in order to be returned to Cambodia. In the meantime, they are kept in a secure facility at the Home for the Destitute and the visits by the volunteers allows the children the opportunity to have much needed play time and the occasional treat!

Every Thursday morning, the volunteers head over to the Home for the Destitute and bring along games, colouring books, crafts, blocks, soccer balls, badminton rackets and many other toys and activities.

It is such a joy to see the happy smiles as the kids come running toward the volunteers. Typically, playtime lasts about an hour and a half and then it is time for the kids to head back to their secure room. If anyone is interested in joining in on this rewarding volunteer activity or leaning about other volunteer opportunities with charities that NNR supports, please contact nnrcharity@gmail.com.

Cyndy Henry

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April 2018

Charity News

Teen Musicians Fundraise for House of Blessing

Students at ISB have been busy with their charitable work and projects that benefit many children and adults in the Nonthaburi area. NNR wanted to check in with one of these groups that has been previously profiled in Thani Talk.

Ken Muangsiri, a middle school band student, who

April 2018

along with a group of friends have been sharing their love of music with the local community provided the following update: “Last October we went to Veteran General Hospital where we played along the corridors of each floor. They were very happy to hear some Thai music other than just handing out or giving things to them.

In November 2017, I had an idea to invite some children from the House of Blessing to join our MS BAND CONCERT. I organized a performance with 16 children from the House of Blessing to play "Kings in Fairy Tales". The objective of that little performance was to raise funds to support the children's education.

At the end of that concert, we raised a total of 103,500 baht in one night.

In January 2018, on Children's Day, we performed at the House of Blessing and officially donated the money to them with the celebration of Children's Day.�

It was wonderful to hear about how Ken and his friends have continued to have such rewarding and positive results.

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Cyndy Henry

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Want to Reach Thani Talk Readers?

Print Edition reaches 1,300 local households.

Online edition offers unlimited reach.

New! Includes listing on new community website.

Interested? Contact: Ginny at: nnradverts@gmail.com 46

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Restaurant Review

Melange: Dine While the Kids Swim It’s getting hot! Summer is quickly approaching. If you are looking for a place to take your family to cool down, relax by the pool and have something nice to eat at the same time, head to this family- and poochfriendly restaurant Melange, located in the Ekkamai (Sukhumvit 63) area.

Melange is a French word that means “to mix” or “mixing”. I didn’t ask the owner why she chose that name but I guess it’s because the restaurant offers a mixed variety of home-cooked Thai and Western food.

It could also mean to mingle. In fact, Melange is a perfect place to mingle with friends and families alike.

The setting and ambience offer a relaxing and cozy environment where you could just sit and enjoy a nice conversation with friends all day long. The restaurant is opened from 8 am until 10 pm every day except Monday.

They offer a variety of food which should please everyone in the family, including a kids’ menu. We sampled a very delicious dish of salmon steak that came perfectly paired with spinach au gratin and mashed potato. We tasted their mushroom soup and lobster bisque. We ordered an appetizer of Por Pia Sod (fresh spring rolls) that came with extra fresh vegetables and home-made sauce. Every dish is prepared fresh. Gluten-free pizza and pastas are available upon request. In addition, your vegetarian friends can also enjoy a variety of vegetarian dishes.

The menu is quite extensive!

While waiting, your kids can enjoy the spacious play area inside or venture outside to swim in the pool. You can choose to sit indoor or outdoor and watch them play, while enjoying a cocktail or beer from the varied drink menu. Wines are also available. If you bring your own bottle, the corkage fee is 300 baht.

Don’t be surprised if from time to time you are greeted by the owner herself who is very attentive and wants to make sure everything is all right. The staff is quite friendly. The menu is in both Thai and English.

Try a variety of dishes. You won’t be disappointed.

Check out their web site at www.melangebangkok.com to learn more about them.

Vara Sumetanon Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (8 am to 10 pm) Address: 73, Ekkamai 10 Sukhumvit 63, Klongton Nua Tel: 02 391 8019 Website: melange.reservation@gmail.com April 2018

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Delivery Restaurant

Phone

Baan Kimchi Korean BBQ/Thai Cuisine

02-952-0031

Burger King/Pizza Company

1112

Cafe Kabul (Indian & Afgan)

Local Business

Phone

Bamboo Spa

02-583-9871

Bank Krungsri

02-582-2669

02-960-3368

BeWitch Salon

087-099-4569

Cherry’s Cakes

080-070-0180

Blue Sky Cafe

081-811-8455

KFC & Pizza Hut

1150

Clark Hatch Fitness Center

02-960-4326/27

Le Bouchon Food Delivery

02-038-3020

Foot Heaven

061-541-6353

The London Pie Shop

02-381-5818

4 Legs Pet Shop Grooming

084-424-6545

McDonald’s

1711

Hair by Jib

085-115-3093

Happy Teeth Dental Clinic

02-960-3988

Mr. Enzo’s

02-960-0412

Great Massage

02-960-3691

New York Diner

081-624-2099

ISB

02-963-5800

Pinocchio’s

02-573-5646

Le Studio Hair

084-022-9928

Que Pasa

02-960-3821

Nichada Customer Relations

02-960-4300

Salad Factory

02-001-5659

Pandit Carpets

081-828-2562

Panipa

02-960-3934

Scoozi

02-715-8555

Rex Pharmaplus

081-834-1306

Subway

02-960-3232

Rose Marie Academy

02-960-3663

Sudhathai

02-583-2694

Shawn Carpets

090-564-8927

Slider Shack

086-773-4140

Starbucks

02-967-9686

Vapor Restaurant

02-832-0055

Villa Market

02-960-3585

Wash-N-Dry

085-945-4132

Xuan Mai Restaurant

087-077-0605

50

T h a n i Ta l k

April 2018

April 2018

T h a n i Ta l k

51

52

T h a n i Ta l k

April 2018