San Dimas High School Football Rules!

To celebrate the new year last night, we decided to splash out on some sushi. We quickly regretted the decision and instead moved on to the much cheaper and more dependable street stalls for some noodle soup. From our red plastic stools, we spied a stream of lights floating up to the sky. So we finished our $2USD dinner and went to their source where we found a crowded Tha Pae Gate park filled with families lighting large paper lanterns. We were told several things about them, including that they're for good luck, for remembering the deceased, and for scoring points with Buddha, but we just decided to make a wish. So we lit one and sent it off on its journey only to have it sail directly into a nearby tree (second picture). I was anxious that it would light the tree on fire and possibly even get nasty with the power line, so we quickly distanced ourselves from the problem. Thankfully, it went out after a few minutes. Satisfied that we were out of the danger zone (Wyld Stallyns!), we agreed that our request was strictly denied. After buying another lantern, we moved far away from any obstacles and re-wished our wish with success. Later, we partied, chatted up a cool English couple (aged ~45 and been all over the place, including Thailand 12 or 13 times, putting us to shame), and had a burger and fries before bed. That was a good night. We leave for Laos tomorrow.

Editor's Note: Kiima just told me that this post did not properly reflect the joy and positive vibe that she'd wanted to convey, so please assume that it was my intention all along and liberally insert your own emoticons when you feel so moved.