Sawadee!

While en route from Japan to Virginia we decided to go a roundabout way and take some vacation in Thailand so as to enjoy a few more sights in Southeast Asia before returning to the U.S. of A. We met our friends, the Heads, and had a wonderfully fun and relaxing time exploring with them. Here are a few highlights of the trip:

Spending our first few nights in a jungle treehouse! How cool?!?!

Getting to watch an elephant show and then ride an elephant with a 1 and 2 year old on our laps. It was a wild, wild, ride!

Eating a delicious breakfast under our "treehouse" each morning at Fern Paradise. Eggs, croissants, coffee, and tropical fruits just steps away from our bed! (Elise decided that she LOVES rambutans and the owner's wife cut some up for her every morning.)

A long journey up to the highest point in Thailand. Gateway to the Himalayas! (Apparently, we don't have good luck with high places and nice weather!)

Hiking into several beautiful waterfalls near Chang Mai.

Riding a longtail boat to our next hotel - on the beach in Railay.

Celebrating Elise's first birthday! What a big girl!

Taking a Thai cooking class. Menu included: Spring rolls (Poh Piah Thod), Green Curry (Kaeng, Khiao Wan), Sour Soup (Tom Yum Khung), Fried Noodles (Phad Thai), and Poached Bananas in Coconut Milk. YUM!!!!!!!!!!

Walking along the beaches and soaking up the tropical paradise.

Watching Josh and Elise splash around in the pool! It took Elise some getting used too, but she seemed to finally like it in the end.

Returning to Bangkok and enjoying a fabulous French dinner at Crepes & Co. (We liked it so much, we went back the next night too!)

Exploring Bangkok for our last few days. The Royal Palace, the night market, the canal tour, and much, much more!