Pune

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Arrived in Pune after a going away party in Chennai. I missed them so much. I think it has taken me quite a while to warm up to Pune because I was so sad about leaving Chennai. I had friends there, a family if you will. All the staff, and all the US members... we had a happy banter. Arrived in Pune and everything was gone. No more friends, no huge family dinners every night like before. The staff at this new hotel in Pune is so large that "making friends" like I did with Pavan and Sunil is next to impossible. It took me a while to feel comfortable walking around alone, usually James or Chelsea would walk with me in Chennai. Today I tried my best to break the biases I have against Pune. I'm sure it's a great city with plenty to do, I just walked in with the wrong attitude.

Today my mother and I had breakfast as usual and took a walk around the smaller areas around the hotel to drop off some dry cleaning and ended up in a very residential area. this would normally be fine, I just never want to seem like I am intruding on people. The way people stare at me I can't tell if I am making them mad or if they are curious or think of me as funny looking. I could never be famous.

Hopefully the next few weeks things will get easier. It is always hard moving to another city, and especially when you don't speak the language and know the customs. I swear sometimes I feel as if I am a small child learning simple things that everyone already knows. It is not fair to compare Chennai to Pune just yet, I need to give a good chance. Some things no matter what remind you that you are in India. Driving is crazy, but not nearly as bad as Chennai. The laundry guy at My Dhobi seems nice, and the driver Guru seems just as nice, but no English.

I am leaving this weekend for Agra to go see the Taj Mahal. Maybe after a good weekend away from a stuffy hotel will do me some good. I am an adventure at heart, not a hotel junkie.

I love you all, and I miss home, but I am living my dreams. Tata for now!

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Comments

[grandma g.]

Kris, you make friends faster then anyone I know, just keep smiling and be your sweet self, you'll have friends in Pune too.") Love you !!!

[kristinsarah]

Hey grandma!
Yes, I made friends here. Some greater than others. It has been an amazing experience and the people I have met I will not ever forget. I think I was just grumpy leaving Chennai, Pune has turned out pretty awesome too. I'm headed to the Taj Mahal this weekend, so I'll get to get out and roam. Love you