Thailand

Our plans for counting down at Siam Square/Paragon Mall were ruined after we finished showering and Nan's father-in-law informs us that 5 bombings have just gone off in Bangkok. We flip on the news and sure enough, one of the areas that were just bombed is Sukhumvit, a really rich area not too far from Nan's. Since tons of people were slated to countdown at Siam Square, they thought it best for us to celebrate indoors. We agreed. Pink, Nan's sister-in-law was already out to celebrate the festivities so her dad called her back to the house. H and Wynn ended up getting delicious Thai barbecued chicken, noodles, sticky rice, and fruit shakes (!) and we ended up eating and watching 'The 40-year old Virgin' and drinking beers. I ended up falling asleep on the couch. At least we felt safe celebrating inside.

By the time they broadcasted the alert, troops were being sent out to public areas to ensure the safety of civilians and foreigners alike. A total of 9 bombings have been reported, all from insurgents of the South. Apparently, there is some political unrest partly, due to a large group of Muslim populations living close to the Malaysian border. Nan's father-in-law says that since they pretty much have their own way of life, they want to be left alone and given independence from Thailand. Nan's uncle has been living down south for the past year and pretty much he says its like a war zone. There are shootings daily and a gun is necessary for survival. She's surprised that part hasn't been covered by the US newsgroups yet.

We are both safe and thanks to all of you who have written about your concern and inquiring about our safety.