Monday, March 30, 2015

Paris Themed Cake


 
A Charming Paris Cake
 
I recently celebrated my 30th birthday. I really dislike leaving the wonderful 20's but hey, it doesn't feel any different. It's just a number, at least that's what I keep telling myself. I am telling you this because if I had to pick one of my own creations to celebrate my 30th with, it would be my Paris cake. This is by far my favorite Adult themed cake I have ever made and this is why it will be showcased today. In honor of my 30th!
 
 
Pink buttercream frosting with black piping work adorned with white candy pearls
 Eiffel Tower ordered from Etsy

Black ribbon hugs around the cake and ties into a bow. Itty bitty charms delicately hang from the bow tied onto bits of pink ribbon.
 
Thanks for stopping by!
 

Saturday, March 28, 2015

A quick guide to American Girl doll hairstyles


Cute American Girl doll hairstyles
 
My daughters both got their first AG doll two years ago. The dolls turned 1 last Christmas and yes we celebrated their birthday's. Since we have to keep them looking nice, I found myself a new hobby, creating new hairstyles. Ruthie has short hair and Marie Grace has long hair. Ruthie really gives me a challenge since she has short hair, but it's fun. Thailand is such an inspiration for me when it comes to new hairstyles! Below, you will find pictures of my creations.
 
 
 

Rough play from little ones!
 







 








 
 



 
 




 
 
 
Hairstyles modeled by Marie Grace, Ruthie, and Hannah

A guide to Thai Transportation




Types of Transportation in Thailand

 

There are many different ways to get around in Thailand, even in rural areas. My city is more like a large town and we have many different styles of rides. Each fare is at a different cost.
 
This is a Tuk Tuk. A single family can catch a ride in one
of these. They don't go very far and the fare is very fair. They range from 40 to 100 baht. Make sure that the fare and destination are negotiated before the passenger gets in or you may be paying much more. Tipping is always appreciated when riding a Tuk Tuk.
 


Motorbikes and scooter rentals are available for rent short or long term. We rented ours on a monthly basis. My scooter was 2000 baht a month and my husband rented his motorbike for 1000 baht a month. The price of the rent depends on the kind of bike you rent. My husband had an manual while I had an automatic.





 



This three wheeled bike is called a
samlor. The average fare is about 70 baht. This is more of a slow paced sight seeing ride rather than a get there now ride. A tip is genuinely appreciated.
Renting a driver is a great option if you are moving or wanting to travel long distances especially if you have children. We used this option twice so far. It is nice and relaxing and we can stop whenever we choose to. We paid 6000 baht to get from Bangkok to Mahasarakham. It was very nice and well worth the hassle of having to drive and figure out directions on our own. Giving a tip is much appreciated.
 
 


Buying your own bike is an option if your planning on staying a long time. These bikes are nifty. They are new electric motorbikes. They are nice and quiet. BTW-children like quieter bikes.


 
 

Another long distance option is the bus. Fares range depending on the distance you are going. the fare from Mahasarakham to Khon Kaen is 50 baht. The trip is about 45 minutes long. This is the big pink bus. bus. Apparently its the best option for busses. Apparently its the best option for busses.




The taxi is a good option if you need a lift anywhere. They make long distance trips and prefer them but they are more expensive if you choose to go long distance. The going rate for a trip across town is 100 baht. They don't like to use their meters and sometimes wont even when you ask. Always ask. They never used them when we asked so we just usually paid the 100 baht. Tipping is nice but we almost never did unless they used the meter.




 The city bus is an option. We never have used this option although we see them everyday. They pack them full of people and generally are very cheap about 10 baht a ride.












 Songthaews are an option but don't try and catch one just before or after school. They get packed but again, are generally cheap. About 10 baht a ride.





 When riding your motorbike or scooter, remember to always wear your helmet. It is very easy just to say your going down the street and it wont be long thus not wearing it. A lot of Thai's don't wear them either. Don't let those things be an excuse. You can get ticketed or easily get into an accident. Protect yourself and wear eye protection and your helmet!