The Shinns in Chiang Mai

The market, being pushed in the pool, and saying goodbye.

Met this American family who were also staying at our hotel when it turned out we'd booked the same cooking course. Naomi (8), Keira (5), Elyse (3 1/2), and Patrick & Tanya (grown up ages) live in China but come on holiday to Chiang Mai for Western Food and comforts.

Turns out they were staying in the room above us (as Keira found out when she got floors confused). And then we bumped into them at the market too.

TOP ELYSE QUOTES:

'The dogs are looking for their babies who "walked away"'(complete with air quote gesture)

Patrick: Are you smart?
Elyse: Uh-huh.
Patrick: Are you humble
Elyse: (short pause)... Noooooo!

(Stroppily, about Yaz) I don't want him to push my big sister in the pool.
(Three minutes later) Push my sister in the pool NOW!

(Everyone is crying after a fall and a bump. Elyse turns to Yaz and glares accusingly. Then says, pointedly:) We're having waffles in the morning!Read more