One week in.

Today marks my first week in Thailand.

In the last week, I’ve learned to ride a motorscooter, in traffic, on steep hills, and in tropical thunderstorms. I’ve learned about 100 words of Thai, and today, ate at a new restaurant, and didn’t use a word of English.

I’ve developed strong feelings about Lonely Planet books (they’re awful), the Thai people (they’re lovely), and handball (it’s amazing, and the now Gold Medal-Winning Thai Women’s team is kick-ass.)

I’ve eaten lots of things I didn’t recognize, and on the whole had the tastiest food I’ve ever eaten, meal after meal. There’s been exploring and recharging. Tough days and amazing ones. But on the whole, I’ve just done what the Thai do - keep smiling.

There’s much more to say here, and it will come out in time, but right now, I feel so, so lucky to get to experience this, so right place, right time to be getting a taste of real Thailand, instead of a shellacked touristy façade.

For you all in the states, Thanksgiving is coming up. Over here, grateful, I’ve already started.