January, 4,1989
Chiangmai, Thailand

Dear Mom,

Happy New Year .... it's funny to write 1989!

I went to a huge winter festival here in Chiangmai with lots of outdoor shops, food, music, rides, and a Miss Chiangmai beauty pageant. At midnight on New Year's Eve there were fireworks. Lots of fun!

I'm still breaking in my motorcycle, so I can't take any long trips until I reach 1,000 kilometers. I'm at 935 kilometers now, but tomorrow I'll hit 1,000 when I take a ride into the countryside and surrounding mountains.

I bought a beautiful hilltribe hand-knit jacket that I'm using as a robe. The colorful embroidery is truly a world of art. I'll send a photo.

I'm having some pants custom made. I bought cream colored cotton material for about $5, and I'll take then to a tailor shop located two doors down from my home. It's only $3.50 to make a pair of pants. Crazy!

I think you would like it here in Chiangmai. Come over for a visit!

Love,

David