Last night I was given a short (very short) lesson of Thai.  I was taught how to ask "how are you?" and how to answer the question.  This morning I put my new knowledge to work and it has paid off already.  One of the cook's does not speak any English and so we have never really talked other than pointing at the menu.  This morning we had a actual conversation (sure it wasn't very long, but it is a start).  I asked her how she was in Thai and she answered back with a smile.  Then I noticed my friend who works in the morning was not here today (she left early yesterday to go to the doctor's as she was not feeling well).  So I asked in very simple English "Jana, sick?" and I grabbed my throat to gesture throat hurting.  The cook looked at me for a few seconds (to process what I was trying to say) and then said "Jana, sick" with an up and down nod to signify yes.  Then her eyes lit up and she said "Jana mai sa bai."  Which means Jana is not okay.  Basically she used my limited knowledge of Thai to tell me that Jana (my friend) was sick.  That was the whole conversation.  It may not seem long or like a big deal, but it was the most communication I have had with this particular lady.  It was interesting to see how learning one little set of related phrases opened up a new door for me (sure it wasn't a big door, but a door none the less).  I am very excited to try and learn some more Thai.  After that it was just another ordinary day here at KTBR.  I kayaked the south coastline.  I relaxed in the pool and jacuzzi.  Had a great local lunch of Rad Na (one of the dishes I learned to cook) and some fresh local papaya for dessert.  When I am done with this blog I plan on doing some reading.  Just another day, another great day.