I often doubted myself when I fathomed the idea of running into too many Midwesterners on my little tour of SE Asia, let alone someone from Des Moines. Well....
It was late in the evening, say around 11:30p (don't worry, Ma, I was in bed by 12) on Saturday. I was at a local establishment on the beach here in Ko Phi Phi, watching a fireshow (local Thais spinning fiery sticks around) when I heard some American accents at the table behind me. Of course I opened up my mouth, and they immediately recognized my American tone as well. One of the women asked where I was from.....and I replied with "Iowa", almost certain to get some questions in return like: "Ohio?" or maybe something to the effect of "Oh Iowa, is that where the potatoes are?" The girl, Meg, nearly turned white with doubt when she heard my response. Take that a step further when I said "Des Moines." Sure enough, she was born in Des Moines, went to high school at Dowling, but then moved to California for college and life. We carried on for a brief conversation, discussed some "Iowa-only" topics like ISU/IA football, the state fair, and the like. I've never felt so "at home" during my trip!
Was it really possible that there may be someone else in Thailand from my home city some 9,000 miles from my current position in Andaman Bay? And did I actually believe that, once big sis left on Friday, I was really the only Iowan on this little island somewhere off the coast of Thailand?
Indeed, 'tis funny how small our world is....
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2 comments:
I can't believe that--how ironic to meet someone from DSM--it really is a small world isn't it. Bet she was as shocked as you were too, is she traveling and doing the same as you are? Really enjoying the up-dates you send and the pixs, must be beautiful. thanks. mom
Cole... this is DW and AJ. We are drinking beers, watching the TN vs. IN nfl game and thinking how crazy you to not be able to get a double cheese from McDee's in like 5 minutes. :} Although I do have the desire to wonder the world, I would not be climbing sandstone cliffs with random tour guide who I am sure dont speak the a lick on English. Either way... sounds like you are having a blast! Take it from me, just had my second kid and do that while you can. Once kids come... scuba diving is sticking you head under 3 inches of water at Ashby Park Kiddy Pool. AJ wanted me to tell you he like the buzzed hair. You must have worked that into you budget, b/c that j. crew product you had in that hair must have cost a fortune. Just think, in 31 days you will kickn in the passat down to farm eating fresh killed turkey with the fam. love Iowa! Not sure where you are meandering at this point, but make it home safe and trying not to get mugged again. That shiner was a good one. DW, AJ
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