M-whY

I spent some time trying to figure out the best way to get into Thailand, only to realize several pages of my second-hand guidebook was missing. I took it as a sign to forget about "work" for the time being, and just enjoy myself. When the time comes, the border crossing would take care of itself.

I picked out a spot under the trees and relaxed. Though technically I was on a resort, there was barely anyone around. I was lucky, the staff later explained to me. Three days ago, the place was packed. Everyone had just left.

Juju stopped by later in the afternoon to check up on me.

"You look bored," she said.

"Nah, I'm just relaxing."

"Are you sure? You can get some snorkel gear from the dive shop and go snorkeling if you like."

"It's okay. Sitting around is all I want to do today. I'm having fun. It's like a vacation from my vacation."

My most strenuous pursuit would be moving from my chair into an unoccupied hammock. There I lay, until I had net imprints all over my face. A fresh breeze came in from the sea, causing me to doze off several times. I totally lost track of time.

I guess there wasn't much work to be done, so Sham, one of the staff members, came out and took the hammock next to mine. I didn't notice he was there until he started speaking to me.

"Do you play football (soccer)?" he asked.

"Not often."

"Do you want to play?"

"Sure, why not."

He led me to the other side of the beach, and rounded up some other staff that had nothing to do. Goals were set up, and a six on six game commenced. I was easily the biggest guy in the group, but I felt like a klutz the way they ran circles on me. They obviously played quite often.

I did score the only goal for my team, but I'll admit, it was pure luck. For dinner, I had some Malay fried rice and squid. Again, I ate next to the water. Not the most exciting of days, but nevertheless, a day well spent!

Thanks to everyone for their support and comments! Knowing people are reading keeps me motivated to continue the updates!