I’m safe in Chiang Mai

It got old already–getting wet, getting other people wet. I went out there again with my pale and had fun. But yesterday seemed more intense. The town is shut down for another two days. Then I’m getting the heck out of here. I’ll do a three-day trek out into the countryside–with a travel guide and other travelers.

As I walked through the streets, I overheard the TV being played from several small businesses. I stopped in at a convenience store to have a look. There were protests and violence in Bangkok. I was just there a week ago.

I chatted with the owner. He confirmed the turmoil in Bangkok. And he said it would stay there. We’re safe up here in Chiang Mai–eight hours north. The only thing being shot around here is water.

But it does affect Chiang Mai somewhat. The prime minister declared a state of emergency for Thailand. “Under the current state of emergency, gatherings of more than five people can be banned, media reports can be censored and the army can be deployed to help police maintain order” (credit: BBC). I am not in the USA any more.

In other world news, I heard that some Navy SEALs sniped three Somali pirates, rescuing the American captain hostage. Wow. Go USA! You’ve got to admire the skill of those SEALs–sniping from one rocking sea boat to another? You’ve gotta be kidding me. Incredible.

I used to snipe other players all the time in Halo (an Xbox video game). So, I appreciate it from that perspective. But I realize that this was real life. And that makes it worth blogging about. I wish the captain, his wife, and all of you (my readers) a safe and Happy Easter!