Well, hello there.

[TAXEXILE]

indeed, the fun has gone, as it has in so much of todays world where banter, flirting and sarcasm are now intertpreted as "causing offence and hurting feelings."

i'm still in the uk, and although dealing with a miserable situation, i have been thoroughly re vitalised and motivated by living in a civil society again and boosted by engaging on an adult level again with with people from all walks of life, i am full of praise for the fantastic national health service and amazed by the helpfulness and professionalism i have encountered just about everywhere in everyday life here. the contrasts with thailand are unbelievable.

aiming for a return to the third world at the end of october, but i am not looking forward to it at all. from next tax year we expect to spend half our time in blighty and half in the madhouse.

have you moved into your new condo yet?

[thegent]

The move is imminent and just in time for the " cold ". I'm brushing up on my Rooskie lingo and perfecting a swishing action with my cane to clear paths from the Indians who clutter up the pavements. The katoey pose no great concern but I've been practising demure girlie giggling Mai Ows just in case.

My experience of the UK is similar but the onset of winter and inevitable confinement to quarters because of inclement weather is tedious and just drags on for so long. Folk don't have the cash for fripperies and thus most places seem to be moribund during the week. Life can be a dreary affair.

Six months annually in Blighty may well be the way to go though. Once we sort ourselves out we'll review and consider options.

I do sympathise with coming to terms with ageing parents descending into senility. Very painful and emotionally draining.

Anyway, don't forget the pork scratchings!

[Guest]

Miss your musings over there TheGent.....