Sorry no more pictures from this point on, I left my computer in Bangkok so will download what pictures I take when I get home in two weeks. Right now I'm in Ko Lanta, an island of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. Its low season so very quiet but just what I need after sightseeing and lots of stimulation in Chiang Mai and before surf camp in Bali. I left Chiang Mai on Sunday, stopped ore in Bangkok before arriving in Krabi. I have to think really hard about the days... A sign that my brain is taking a rest!! I stayed in Ao Nang outside Krabi for two nights which was great. I was in a quaint guesthouse down the street from the beach which was safe and friendly. I took a tour on Wednesday to hot springs, the Emerald Pool, and finally to the Tiger Temple. I got quite a workout climbing the 1234 steps zigzagging up the side of a mountain to reach a huge golden Buddha at the top and a spectacular view. Thankfully it rained as we trekked down the steps- I made friends with a couple on the way down; we cheered each other on as we worked our way down the woman and I shared a fear of heights. Well it was well worth a few minutes of shaky knees and quickened breathing to get to the top! It's been great timing for me to learn about Buddhism both thru these tours and by reading the Dalai Lama's latest book. From what I learned, Buddhism is focused on love, compassion, and serving others despite the suffering we experience as humans with "untamed minds". The practice of meditation aims to heal our minds from disturbing emotions and serving others helps us get out of our heads. I've also been ready a book on Christianity and it's been pretty amazing to piece these things together and see how I can apply these ideas to my own life. I know service has been a huge classroom for me in the last two years and I'm excited to get home to give service in Atlanta- I hope if youre inspired at all by my blog you can find some volunteer work in your community too! So after four days of sun, snorkeling, reading and spa time, I leave for Phuket tomorrow and fly to Bali on Sunday. Wish me luck and lots of strength for surfing!