I did go back expecting to salvage our relationship, only to find Lena had been telling lies to get me to give her money to cover gambling debts. She was losing thousands of dollars a month playing a game I've never heard of, and know of no similar game in the West. I have always feared that when the money ran out, the love would also, and this proved me right. She is having liver problems, but for the week we thought it was cancer, it became clear that she does not get any solace from our relationship....she spent the whole week visiting friends alone. Not surprising, but telling. Once we had gone to the expensive clinic and knew it wasn't cancer, I had to tell her she would have to use the government hospital for treatment, because I was out of money and couldn't continue to pay the clinic. That's when it became clear she was only after money. I spent the rest of the trip alone. It's unfortunate that I didn't pull the plug earlier but Lena is only part of the lifestyle I enjoy there. I do love the food and the people, and the weather and the Buddhist culture....if not for all those things I'd have stopped this a long time ago. That's what makes the friend across the street an interesting prospect, because it would allow me to continue my relationship with Thailand. She's a hard worker, and well-situated within the community, just very poor. But her needs are modest especially compared to Lena, she has a 6 year old son, and lives in a 6 home complex with her Mother and 4 sisters. Quite the extended family. They all gather for dinner nightly, makes about 20 when everyone (kids included) attends. They gave me good advice about the proper way to handle this (and other) situations with Lena, I deeply appreciate their care and concern for me. If I'd received half the care from Lena that I got from them, I'd still be trying to stay with her.
And it's not $7K month, it's $7K total. I phrased it as per month, meaning I'd like to get it done asap. Of course, unless I really want to pursue the neighbor, there's no hurry to give her another dime.
I've already shaved my head again, as I really like it. I had grown it back out when Lena complained. Now I don't care about that particular opinion. And my lady friend likes it too.
It's off to the classified ads next. I'm wide open to possibilities, as a career change is in order. It would be best if I can find something that is either temp or seasonal, I'd like to keep a few months for Thailand (potentially) and a few for taxes (I don't want to give up $10K/month, yeah that's what I make those 3.5 months)...hey there's an idea: let's all pay taxes four times a year instead of once! Then I could work year-round!