glowbugs

I wrote a long blog and saved on another computer before the power went out- so you'll have to wait on that one...

I have so many gorgeous pictures of the jungle trails, waterfalls, and Nepali friends! I wish the internet was fast enough here- but I am in the middle of the Himalayas- che garne? (what can you do?)

At night, there have been some great thunderstorms with lightning lighting up the whole sky! When it is clear (and there is no moon) there are thousands of stars and tons of glowbugs :)

While I'm still out of breathe walking from one place to another ("Nepali flat means little bit up, little bit down") I am loving the hundreds of paths that lead you just about anywhere- homes, farms, valleys, ridges, creeks, forests, temples... And I really enjoy having the buffalo and cows always standing in the middle of the path to greet you.

Yesterday Moti took us to the jungle to see musicians play at a temple. We were so excited as we came upon the Hindu temple amidst the trees and saw a whole band start playing- long horns like you imagine in the swiss alps, little horns that look like brass flutes but sound like oboes, cymbals, etc. They started playing loud excited jumbles (it seems each instrument is responsible for a few chromatically adjacent notes, and they play them at whichever tempo they like, regardless of the other players), and as I began imagining the type of dancing that might take place to this, I noticed three goats to my left. Dana (the vegan) spun around and left. I stayed and had the traumatic pleasure of witnessing a few animal sacrifices (3 goats, and quite a few birds). Ugh. One swift blow, then they offer the head at the temple, and drain the blood to offer as well. The rest is eaten (although the goat testicles are removed- post mortem- and offered too). I tried real hard to smile back at all of the Nepalis who were delighted that I was interested in their culture, but I think I've crossed over to the vegetarian side at this point.

Ok new topic.

I had the 4th graders trace their hands and write some sentences about themselves (including affirmations like 'I am smart', 'I am beautiful', like Cafe Gratitude) then I hung up the colored pictures with ribbon and string. The first bit of decoration in a classroom with one chalkboard, bench/desk combos and a dirt floor. They were so proud:)

Tomorrow there is a town meeting about distribution of government funds for Nangi and the neighboring towns... should be interesting.

The Canadians and I are going to hike to Tatopani on our way down the mountain in a week or so. Hot springs!! and food service....mmm

Ok, hopefully I get that other blog up. SO much time wasted re-typing when the power goes out so often.


I miss you all. but most of all I miss my Momma! Happy (early) Mother's Day!! I love you!

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