Suddenly we leapt from 5th August to 8th October! How did that happen? No idea.Ah well, the journey back from Poole to Luang Prabang after a month away was achieved without drama. With the possible exception of the bizarre moment when we were sitting in the plane at Bangkok airport, awaiting takeoff, and the steward approached us. "Is this yours?" he said, holding out Trevann's passport! Somehow Trevann had managed to lose it between the gate and the plane. The one thing you do not want to mislay when travelling is your passport!
Our visit to the UK felt exceptionally busy. For some reason every single appliance in the house decided to give up the ghost. First the hot water cylinder, then the dishwasher and finally the washing machine (only 6 years old! Disgraceful!). All had to be replaced. Fortunately the faithful old Berlingo sailed through its MOT with a little encouragement. All in all an expensive experience.On the other hand, it was lovely to see friends and family. Highlight of the usual trip up to Yorkshire to see Holly and the others was a quick visit to Leeds city centre. So impressive.Now we're safely back in Luang Prabang in time for the annual Boun Lai Heua Fai (Festival of Lights) which marks the end of Buddhist Lent and the rainy season. It has to be my favourite festival. All the houses, shops and temples are lit with candles and lanterns and there is a huge parade of illuminated paper and bamboo dragons. These are pulled along the high street and then launched onto the Mekong to float away, honouring the nagas and sending our hopes and wishes for the future.We hope the rain stays away!Let's start with a few pictures from August, then the trip to Poole and then back here again.
 |
| I don't often get up at dawn but this one was just so beautiful I had to creep out and take a pic. |
 |
| We ordered these coasters from PatiHoub (plastics recycling social enterprise in Luang Prabang) to take as presents for family |
 |
| Our 100% favourite dish. Bor Bun Gai. Complete meal about £2 for 2 persons. Delicious |
 |
| La Cantina - Decorative new venue opened up |
 |
| We just caught the end of the boat racing - but then it bucketed down with rain. Usual chaos |
 |
| La Cantina offers another opportunity for musical jam sessions |
 |
| Back in Poole - another jungle! |
 |
| But I did manage to make some damson jam |
 |
| Jen and John in Bottesford - with the neatest hedge in the world |
 |
| Leeds Corn Exchange - beautiful space |
 |
| Holly looking happy in Leeds. |
 |
| The Platform building, where Holly's company have their Leeds office |
 |
| Back for Ellie's birthday in Poole |
 |
| With Ellie's mum and dad (Sally and Brian) |
 |
| I managed to clear the pond and the jungle around it. |
 |
| Gorgeous September weather so we got to walk on the beach |
 |
| I even dipped my toes in the water and had a little paddle |
 |
| Sadly vandalism reared its ugly head in the Community Orchard again. What possesses someone to uproot a tree planted in someone's memory? |
 |
| And then we were off again! |
 |
| Greeted by other beings who had taken up residence in our garden in our absence |
More photos of candles, lanterns and dragons to follow...
No comments:
Post a Comment