Back in Delhi

Thali

As hard as it was to leave my family and friends, Delhi does seem like "home" now. The crazy traffic and mobs of people seem normal to me, as well as the occasional cow and monkey. Nice to reconnect with good friends, and get to know the new teachers.

One of our first jaunts was to our favorite spot, Hauz Khaz, a tiny artsy village, once the second city of Delhi. Dinner at our favorite South Indian restaurant.

Dusk at Hauz Khaz ruins

Spent Sunday afternoon meeting my new Nepalese "grandson", Aloak.

Niraj, wife, and baby, Aloak

Niraj is my acupressurist. Aloak's eyes are painted with a mixture of charcoal and oil to make his eyes "bigger". They do  not use diapers, just layers of cloth. Niraj's mother-in-law spends most of her day washing the cloths.

Kris and I have been designated the American grandma's. Okay with me!

My new class of 18 students (can you believe that?) is wonderful. It is going to be a great year!

Summer 2012: From Portugal to Bellingham

The pottery of Portugal

Before heading home to Bellingham, I met my dear college friend, Cheryl, for a sun and seafood respite in Portugal. I had been to Portugal before and knew it was the perfect, easy place to go for restoration before heading home. I refer to Portugal as "Europe lite"; plenty of great food, easy transportation and less expensive than most of Europe.

Common sight in Alfama

Angel mural in Alfama

The colorful doors of Portugal

Cheryl and I in Sintra

Megaliths of Evora

Evora was a new find this time, about 2 hours inland from Lisbon. Went on a tour to view these recently discovered (1960's) megaliths, much older than Stonehedge. Much is being researched about the ancient civilizations that lived in the area and the importance of astrology to their lives.

Salema on the Algarve

Of course, spending time on the beach was a must. What more can I say?


Then the long flight home to Bellingham to spend time with my sweet family.

Gage and Dagan

There is no greater joy than spending time with a grandchild and watching your own "baby" become a loving parent.

Precious Gage

With my sister

My most loving sister flew out for two weeks. We went to the mountains in Leavenworth, Washington and thoroughly relaxed in the clean mountain air.  While we are worlds apart, our ties are very close and deep.

Saying good-bye to my family was quite sad, but I will be home for Christmas!