Feels like Christmas…

There’s just something about being in a new place.  Different equals adventure and places, ideas, and thoughts you never knew existed come to life.  It’s like discovering a new sense.  I think that’s why I love traveling so much.  A photo is a flat dimension that can’t come close to actually experiencing the place.  Even though I tend to normally be optimistic, these days I’m ecstatic.   I can’t take in the scenery enough and nothing seems to get dull.  The tall colorful buildings intrigue me. 

Yes, it’s true some of them are “falling apart” as workers remove the front of several buildings.  You see…they are making the road wider and too many stores built right up to the road.  So now they are coming down…bit by bit…occasionally the bricks go flying off the side of a building.  It’s a game of dodge ball and so far I’m winning.  Then there's rocks, dirt, holes and very uneven ground.  At times the road is the only option and being aware of traffic is a skill I’m still learning.  (I’m certain the traffic will run over me).  Safety brings a whole new meaning as as a gush of wind from a bus blows my hair backwards.  Who knew you could be so close to a moving vehicle and not get hit?  I know I shouldn’t say this but…I am just having so much FUN with all these changes!  Where is my streetwise sense?  Oh I think it’s there…somewhere…and I am sure it will come back to me one of these days.  Until there, here’s some “fun” things I’ve gotten to experience this week.

-Sitting for over an hour just listening to the native Nepali tongue…it draws me in.

-Eating new dishes with favors mixed in the most delightful way

-Signing ASL with some deaf Nepali

-Going to the grocery store and just staring at all the new options

-Looking at the color and shape of money and coins

-Learning how to use public transportation

-Walking down a crooked, uneven but artistic brick sidewalk

-The beautiful, flowing outfits around me 

-The continuation of new noises outside my window.  (Sometimes I'm positive someone is in the house with me).

-Wearing a mask to protect against the pollution

-Watching people drive on the other side of the road

 -Seeing "squirrel-chipmunks".  I just think they are adorable!

-Meeting new people and attempting to at least get my mouth to say "hello" to them

-The tremendous dumping of rain…like a giant hose relentlessly soaking the earth.  I truly felt like I was under a waterfall for about 20 minutes!

Yep and there's more... and with each is a story, but I must get back to the books.   (Even that is exciting...studying outside on a porch high in the air).  With all these new things, it truly does feel like Christmas!  I know it will eventually wear off, but I’m going to enjoy it while it lasts.   There’s excitement around every corner.  

=0)