Tag Archives: thailand

Mad Dogs And Farangs in the Sun

Last week I met Jamie Parker on Soi Chaiyapoon. I hadn’t seen him in ages. He looked ten years younger and said, “Botox. Only cost 5000 baht.” No wrinkles around his eyes and those furrows in his forehead had been smoothed out like 5-star hotel sheets. I was a little jealous. “So now you’re ready […]

Over The Burma Border

2002 West of Mai Sai A dirt road on a mountain ridge Straddling the border Between Thailand and Burma The Golden Triangle Hot Dry Dusty Route 1149 Turn right Out of Thailand Into Burma An illegal entry On a 250cc ATX Honda. An old man Walking I give him a ride For safety Passing guard […]

Pawh Den Always

Monsoons late. Months after Songkran. Buffalo wander the rice paddies. Looking for their old friend. Den Khongbua Grandfather gone. Kwai remember him. Den the only one Who knew their names. Den Gone But not from memory Kwai. Not gone forever. Not from our memories too. I see you soon, grandfather Den But not today.

Happy 63rd Father’s Day Poo Frank

My father passed away over twelve years ago. Today would have been his 62nd Father?s Day. Frank A Smith II was my best friend. Still is. He loved my mother and mourned her early passing from this life. My father loved his kids. All six of us. Frank III, Regina, Pam, Patrick, Michael, and me. […]

The Popularity of Castration

Back in 2009 Bangkok’s The Nation reported on a growing castration (lopping off the testicles) or gaan dton trend amongst young wannabe ladyboys without funds to finance a complete sexual transformation. The castration operation costs $130US or 4400 baht and in most cases required parental approval. These young boys were convinced that ridding themselves of […]