Oranges come to mind
When you live in Southeast Asia, AQI is just a thing
And the air is thick today.
We take for granted, that, yes, it might be a day for a mask, and we might not be able to see across the river, or across the lake.
We manage expectations, live inside our circle of control, let go of influence, and concern. But sometimes those things bleed over.
We make the most of it, generally. But some days, it ventures into oppressive.
Laos is home to the exceptionally striking and charming town of Luang Prabang.
It’s a wonder – amazing architecture, orange clad monks mesmerizing, ornate temples, tree lined streets. Anachronistic, slow-paced, good for mindfulness
and the soul.
But today, there’s a bit extra. The AQI has ventured into unhealthy. We’re out for a bike ride, even the view across the Mekong is obscured by haze, and our eyes water.
Papa
look at the sun
It looks like a kumquat!
And as we cruise these beautiful streets, appreciate the history, the energy, and charm, I reconsider
Nah
That’s a blood orange
Get Up Eight 
This is full of vivid description! I can’t believe I haven’t found you on here before…a fellow international school teacher. As someone who lived in Shanghai for 5 years, I know a thing or two about AQI. Once, for a few days in a row, it topped 600…it was gross! I hope it eases up soon.
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Luang Prabang is truly remarkable but we’ve heard from a few folks that March generally gets socked in. Loving our wanders here though, controlling what we can! 🙂
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I understand about pollution. Delhi is reputedly the most polluted city in the world. I spent a bit of time in Shanghai where they had to read the pollution content each day at the school my daughter taught at, to see if students could go out at lunchtime. Love your descriptions.
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