Maestrale Imports in Port Townsend

I took an opportunity to explore a new country – Laos.  I spent one week in Luang Prabang, the old capitol of Laos.  I was totally enamored.  Here are some photos…

In Thailand, Spring is the time to celebrate Songkran, the start of the new lunar year.  Known as the water festival, Buddha images are ‘bathed’, monks and elders receive the respect of younger Thais by sprinkling of water over their hands to wash away bad luck.  The afternoon is filled with a joyful celebration of parades and the splashing of water onto one another, not only splashing, but “drenching” others with water.  People are armed with giant water pistols and there is great fun in getting everyone wet.  it is the hot season and a time to cool off and have fun.

This sweet couple work the night market in Chiang Mai.  They are Hmong and want to preserve and educate people about the ancient textile arts of their people. They share their stories of the Hmong culture and traditions. They salvage remnants from Hmong garments and produce beautiful handbags and accessories.  The age-old textile techniques include very fine embroidery, natural indigo batik, and reverse applique.  You will see many of their products in our store.

One of the highlights of my trip was meeting up with Dianne Roberts and Jim Whitaker in Bangkok.  Jim and Dianne had just finished their trip to Base Camp commemorating Jim’s 50th anniversary of his ascent to Mt Everest, the first American to make the ascent.  Jim and Dianne are dear friends and it was a pleasure to meet on the other side of the world.

I love the fruit durian – its creamy and delicious.  Farmers sell in from the back of their pickup trucks on the sides of the road.  I had durian iced cream for the first time – amazing!

Beautiful Rajasthani architecture, bamboo scaffolding, spice markets, goat herds in the streets…

People ask me, what kind of bus do you take?  I take the air conditioned tourist deluxe bus.  Here is the bus and photos along the way from Delhi to Jaipur.

I have the pleasure of staying with a lovely couple in Delhi, India while I am here.  Here is a photo of their beloved Ganesh blessing their home amongst the plants on their balcony.

Subhag and  I walk to the nearby market in Lajpat Nagar – trendy Indian fashions, bangle shops, embroidery shops, dried fruits and nuts.. an abundance of goods…