I am trying to learn Thai out here in Thailand.

My mom has spoken to me in Thai my whole life so my listening comprehension ain't that bad.

I am glad in the 4 years out here I've picked up the ability to speak but you know you don't speak Thai well when....

1. you speak to Japanese who choose TSL (Thai as a Second Language) and there is a total breakdown in communication - I have to resort to English which technically, they are not as proficient in as Thai!
2. you make a simple request to not use bags to a dessert vendor and they look at you like you are retarded
3. there isn't one day that goes by where a person doesn't ask me "you are Thai - why isn't your Thai clear?"

I can't remember how to write my own name in Thai (aside from my nickname which is an accomplishment) and barely remember the alphabet. This is not very encouraging and makes it hard to see a future called "being fluent in Japanese!"

mendoksai!