So much to give thanks for, even if I wasn’t eating Pad Thai in Paradise, escaping the intentions of well-meaning friends now that family is no longer an obligation.

The Thai people are so genuinely sweet, to visitors and each other. I especially love the wai, the traditional greeting of a slight bow with hands pressed together. This gesture is not reserved to make tourists feel exotic or special, and returning it reaps warm smiles and mutual good will.

I spent most of my Thanksgiving, a day earlier here in Thailand, beach combing for seashells and photos.

A very knotty day

Feeding frenzy