Settled in Chiang Mai

We have been in our room in Chiang Mai for a full two weeks now. We were glad to see our storage bins with things we left here last year. We have settled into a routine, which includes regular massages, daily shopping, walking a bit, reading and relaxing. (And knitting for me.)

In the past, we have gotten our drinking water from filter machines, refilling plastic bottles. This year we are getting water delivered and it is really convenient. The bottles are about one liter, so get used up pretty quickly. When the crate is finished, someone delivers the next one within hours. Putting the empty bottles back upside down makes it easy to see how many are left.

Soon after arriving, I visited the orthopedic clinic to see Dr. Chanakarn. He was recommended by my friend Barbara, who had a knee replacement from him last year. He X-rayed my right knee, which has been bothering me a lot. He gave me a cortisone shot and suggested that I come back for hyaluronic acid shots after the new year if it is still hurting. It is doing well so far, but now the left knee is getting worse (I had the shots in that one about 18 months ago). The consultation, X-ray and shot all cost just slightly more than the co-pay for one orthopedic visit with my insurance in the US. And I feel confident in this doctor's abilities. I will probably return sometime next week.

Since the doctor advised me to rest the knee, I haven't been walking as much. But I still try to get out daily. Here are a few sights along the way.

Interesting place to sit for evening drinks

There are beautiful flowers everywhere

This home gate has interesting decor

A typical minimart in the neighborhood; there are dozens of these near by

A new pillar and emergency sign; not sure what would happen if you press the button!

Motorcycle workshop in the courtyard of a home

My Christmas dinner -- excellent Hawaiian pizza