• Japanese Group Leaves, Sirubari, Lamjung

      10 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C

      This morning came wayyy too quick. Bed's alarm went off at 4am and I was out of bed by 4:30 am and we left at 5:00 am. I was trusted to lead the group on the walk down, and didn't carry anything, telling the group that if they needed help with their stuff to let me know and I'd help them. Turns out the offer wasn't needed! So it was easy for me ;) Thankfully because I feel like crap today. Definitely the worst of the cold that's going around hit me today.. Oh well, I've survived worse ;) The walk down was all together uneventful. We made it to Bhotewodar very quickly, only stopping once on the way down. The walk seems shorter in the dark somehow and I'm very happy I made all the correct turns haha.

      Because we made it to the village much more quickly than anticipated we had time to kill and had tea and samosas while we waited for the groups bus to arrive. It was kind of neat to watch the town wake up, all the lights starting to go on and people starting their days. While we were waiting, the English teacher passed by the shop we were in on his way to school. He stopped and had a tea with us before continuing to Sirubari. I couldn't stop yawning the entire time we were waiting, thankfully the tea and samosas helped keep me awake! And warm, it was very cold when we stopped moving.

      Bed and I said our goodbyes to the group and made our way back up to the village. It didn't take us very long, only about an hour and 15 minutes including a break partway. That's the same amount of time it took us to get down as a group! Must be getting into shape or something. By the time we got back home I was feeling much better, especially after a cold shower and some food. Refreshing. We even made it to school early! Apparently the reason our English teacher, Mahadev, was going up so early is because District exams are next week and the older students are spending extra time at school studying.

      At school I spent the day getting the laptop set up, changing some basic settings, installing new programs and showing Ganesh some of the differences with Windows 8. I also showed a few of the teachers how to do video calling over Messenger. Previously they didn't have anything with a camera and microphone to do so! Because today was a half day I didn't finish everything and brought the laptop home with me so I can try to finish tomorrow. It's just slow going because of the dinosaur internet connections. I was called gentle today as well haha. In comparison to the Japanese group who are funny and energetic. I suppose gentle is a good term ;)

      After school there was a celebration going on at another teacher's house that all the teachers went to. The celebration was in honour of this teacher's mother who had turned 84. Apparently that's a big accomplishment to celebrate! First Bobita and I stopped by the house to drop off bags and feed the animals. When we arrived we were given sel roti (the donut like bread) and cussar (the small sweet balls) in banana leaf bowls, topped off with curry. We used the roti to eat the curry and I gave my cussar to Bobita, I have to admit it's not my favourite, only because it's hard and my teeth are still bothering me from the work I had done in December.. Not good! But nothing I can do about it now. The set up of the celebration was the same as the previous ones I've been too with the four poles, a hanging cloth, and numerous offerings in leaf bowls. There was a preist who was talking, this time something about how their holy book needed to be changed to adapt to modern times because it previously referred to things flying in the sky as God's, which is not the case when it comes to airplanes. I thought that was interesting! Partway through the Preist talking one of the students came and got me telling me to eat. She brought me to the other side of the house where I ate Soo much food! I couldn't communicate that I was full to the man serving me, but that's okay it was delicious. There was (hot) rice pudding with fresh coconut mixed in yummy. As well as a curry and a pickled side that they make. I accidentally ate a full chile... That was hot. But thankfully I had lots of water! I went back to my spot to continue listening as best I could. At some point a group of ladies showed up and were chattering amongst themselves about me trying to encourage their children to say hello to me and asking the questions I've come to expect about my age, marital status, country, etc. Bed's neighbour was sitting next to me and told me they were calling me a very pretty lady. When the preist concluded his talking everyone who had been listening raised their hands a number of times and shouted yay. I've seen that before so I imagine that it must be a typical way of ending the talking and starting the mingling. As soon as the talking was finished the group of ladies that was talking to me swarmed me and started taking pictures. It was very overwhelming.. One woman was the same one who took a photo of me at the last celebration! She showed me the photo haha. Anyway, thankfully Bed rescued me from that. He wanted me to take a photo of him, Mahadev, and Ganesh presenting the 84 year old woman with a gift, a lovely scarf. Some of the photos turned out pretty nicely :) After taking the photo the men went off to eat. There was more confusion as someone tried to hand me a plate of food and I couldn't explain that I'd already eaten... Thankfully Bobita overheard the commotion and helped me out. We left shortly after because the animals needed taking care of. I was sad to go, I've started to really enjoy myself despite the language barrier! Which I might add is becoming less of an issue. Too bad I'm not staying long enough to truly be able to understand everything..

      Back at home I spent some time relaxing, writing, and enjoying some quiet. We didn't eat dinner tonight because we ate at the party so late and instead just watched some Tv. The same show we've been watching most nights about the Hindu religion. It's funny and probably quite educational if I could understand more, but the acting is story enough! I'm sure that I'll sleep quite well tonight.
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    • Sirubari, Lamjung

      9 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

      This morning I "slept in" until 7:30 am and spent the morning before school talking and helping cut vegetables for breakfast. After breakfast, Bed and I again left the group to make it to school on time.

      At school I spent most of the morning transferring my photos to the school computer for the staff to have access to when I'm gone. There were a lot of people at the school in the morning coming in and out. I was given a welcome flower from my friend's father and a few people came to look at the photos I was transferring as well. I also spent some time discussing Sudarsan's business with him and his ideas for a website. While in Kathmandu I plan on helping him to start building the site and getting some photos and logos edited. I think that I'll give him a few of my photos to use on his site. Why not? That's an expression they say here a lot that I love "why not" and "what can we do". They're so laid back it's great. While in the office Sudarsan messenger called Conrad, a previous volunteer here who is also from BC and currently studying at the University of Washington. We've been talking a bit on Facebook as well and I'm hoping that when I return we'll be able to meet in person! Bed also came by for the messenger call and was very excited to be talking to Conrad. Making connections world wide.

      At some point I was called upstairs to the Farewell/Thank You Ceremony for the Japanese Group. That explained all the people in the office! A huge portion of the community showed up and we were all crammed into the room. Hanging on the back wall was a banner that the Japanese group made with the students, a tree with handprints of each student as the leaves. It looks quite nice! The ceremony started with introductions, each person stood and said their name and where they lived, including myself. There was a lot of talking next from a few different people in the community. I'm imagining words of thanks and gratitude. Because the Japanese group leader, Shranay, speaks Nepali everything was translated directly into Japanese so I understood nothing. Except that I heard my name mentioned a few times and I was pointed to, but no comprehension at the time. Later I asked Shranay what was said and he explained that they weren't saying thanks/good bye to me as well because I'm staying a bit longer, makes sense! After the talking was finished the group presented a number of gifts that they brought with them to the students and community. The gifts included a laptop, soccer ball, volleyball, books, pencils, paints, etc. Very generous. There was lots of clapping and appreciation from everyone :) And lots and lots of photos being taken! I was designated as the photo taker and had three cameras going at once. I wanted someone to help me but I guess others aren't comfortable using a camera, I've been receiving a lot of compliments on my photos from people here.

      Afterward the farewell ceremony we had a late lunch, finishing the chicken from yesterday. So many people! The Japanese group ate in the main kitchen area, the community members in the classrooms next door, and the teachers outside by the fire pit. The same area that we tend to meet at mid day when there's a lull in classes. I chatted with the teachers a bit, this time about food. Apparently I should give mutton another chance... It's the only meat that a lot of people here eat! Most people eat chicken too, but mutton is universal. I don't know.. If the opportunity comes up I'll try it otherwise I won't be upset if it doesn't work out :p

      After lunch we had a short time before school was over so Shranay, one of the other Japanese students, and myself tried to change the language of Microsoft Office on the laptop from Japanese to English. Turns out that it's something that needs to be paid for, a language pack. We ran out of time to get it done though so I'll have to figure it out on my own some other time. The Nepali language pack is free though so maybe I'll do that instead, it's probably more useful for them at the school anyway!

      The group stayed behind longer at the school so I went back with the locals and we had tea and chatted a bunch until the group returned, then went to wash, then returned again. Tonight's dinner was very popular with the group! Bobita made a special rice with butter today and spinach again. Many people in the group came asking for seconds where usually they don't. I ate inside with the family and we all had rice with milk and bananas. I notice that only the locals have that privilege, not enough to go around I guess. Again, feeling the love as I'm included in these activities!

      After dinner I helped with the dishes again before the boys and I snuck off next door to share some wine with the neighbour. We had a snack of chicken and talked for a while. It was kind of funny, the secrecy that went along with the whole process haha. I guess because the Japanese group doesn't drink? After socializing for a bit we returned to our room to play some more cards. Our games were cut a bit short by assisting the group in packing their things. Tomorrow they leave at 5am from the house to walk to Bhotewodar. Some of them aren't able to carry their bags so Bed has arranged for porters to come by and carry the bags down for them. After hearing that I volunteered to go down to town with the group and help carry things should anyone need the assistance..
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    • Sirubari, Lamjung

      8 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ☀️ 20 °C

      This morning was an early morning! The group, Yogendra and I left at 5:30 ish to hike to the top of the mountain to watch the sunrise! Or tried to anyway, we didn't make it in time because as a group we were slow but it was beautiful nonetheless. I may try to go on my own one time before I leave, but at the same time maybe not haha. Yogendra trusted me to lead the way and let me tell you in the dark everything looks so different! We missed one turn but it only turned into a short detour, actually I think it was faster at the end of the day really. When we finally reached the top the views were breathtaking. It was clear and you could see everything! Bhotewodar was down in the distance, the school was closer down, the Himalayas were poking through the clouds and turning pink from the rising sun. What a peaceful place! Because the top of the mountain also hosts a cell tower I had an excellent signal. I called both mom and dad and spoke to them briefly while the rest of the group took pictures and posed with a baseball bat that one of them brought. I should really ask about that... On our way down we stopped for tea at a shop by the senior school (where one of the festivals was at) before making our way back to the house. Yogendra and I went back more quickly as time was running short and I had things I needed to prepare before school started.

      We ate breakfast as a group again and afterwards Bed and I snuck off to make it to school on time. The group arrived later, about 45 minutes after classes started. All the students were called to stand in a line, similar to how they do first thing in the morning when they do a few discipline exercises, sing the national anthem, and answer a few questions. I guess I haven't actually written about that yet! First thing in the morning the students are called to the play field and stand in lines based on what class they're in. Then one of the teachers, usually Ganesh, runs them through some poses. When I first arrived the commands were all in Nepali but, for my benefit I think, they switched to English at some point. The poses range from standing at attention and at ease, moving their arms to the sides and clapping above their heads. To teach discipline and respect I believe. Some mornings too the students uniforms and fingernails are inspected to make sure that they're clean and respectable. They then sing their national anthem, which I believe that I almost have memorized, and one student from each row comes to the front to ask a question of their fellow students and await a response. The questions are different each day, I should find out more about them. The role of the teachers here is so important to these students. I was talking to my teacher friend about it and it makes my heart melt about the compassion and caring that these people have for their students. I'm sure teachers at home do too! But there is a need here to educate the children of parents that may not be educated themselves. Apparently a lot of children don't receive much attention from their parents at home because of the busy lifestyle here. So it's the school's job to teach the children about things like basic hygiene - changing socks everyday, brushing teeth, washing, etc - among other things. They're fighting very hard to break a cycle here in Nepal and I have a lot of respect for it. They want to see the children educated so that the country can be brought to a better place as a whole...

      Anyway, back to the arrival of the group at school. The students were called to stand in a line at the side of the school and each Japanese volunteer introduced themselves. Afterwards the group split up and took the older kids up the the cistern to teach them about hygiene. I stayed down at the school with the younger kids and participated with the activities the group had planned for them. There was lots of singing and dancing! At first the children weren't really into it but by the end of it they sure were. My favourite part was when they tried to get everyone signing "if you're happy and you know it" haha reminded me so much of my childhood! I loaned them my speaker to play the music and of course sang along. Some teachers watched and others participated. I did a bit of both taking some pictures as well.

      At some point I was called down to the office because the computer keyboard wasn't working. So we searched and found the keys for the computer lab finally! And were able to get a new keyboard plugged in. I made my way back to the computer lab to try and finish setting everything up. During that time a class came in and I got them playing on the 5 computers that turn on at once, we need another powerbar for the 6th one. Boy is it crazy when they all come in at once screaming asking questions, constantly saying ma'am ma'am here here help me! But eventually they settled down and managed to play nicely. No typing lessons today! But, even playing games I see their improvement in using the computers. I've been showing them a bit of what I do when I'm trying to get them working, how the keyboards plug in, proper ways to make short cuts, copy files, etc and they're starting to be more self sufficient which is great. There was this game that they all used to fight over too, a dirt biking game, that was only on one computer and now it's on all of them. Less fighting thankfully... Anyway, at some point the Japanese group came in to observe and talk with the children. That helped with the chaos! Becuase 5 computes and 15 children is difficult to manage. The Japanese and the students played and at some point they all started dancing together.

      When lunch time rolled around I forced the children to abandon the room and we went to eat. We had a very special lunch of chicken instead of lentils! An honour for the group, I wonder if they know that it was a special lunch? In any case it was delicious. It was also really funny watching each person in the group try a Chile, they all had the same reaction, utter horror and needed water immediately. They're funny! A good group of people for sure, they have good hearts :)

      After lunch the group went up to the upper room and engaged some of the children in a writing exercise. Before they left Japan, they had local Japanese children write messages to the children here. So the students were responding! It looked like they were having a ton of fun :) I stood outside with some of the other teachers and we were talking. I feel very included these days and I love it here. We were talking mostly about visiting Canada and how things work there. I didn't know that the nearest Canadian visa office is actually in Delhi, India. So it's a big deal to get out there and get a visa.. Which sucks because I was really hoping that I could help my friend a bit more in terms of coming to Canada, with the paperwork etc online but we'll see.

      At some point I was called away to help the next class with the computers. This class was actually less interested in the computers and really wanted me to get the DVD player working. I don't think we have the proper cables though.

      After school we had tea at home and the group went back to the cistern to wash up again. Sudarsan and I went to watch the sun go down again and caught the tail end of it. On our way back he picked up some dried Bamboo pieces and brought them back home. At home we turned them into a these little pinwheel fans called Firfire in Nepali and Taketonbo in Japanese. There's a picture included, but it's two strips of Bamboo crossed over one another put onto a small stick. The small stick then goes into a small tube and children run with the toy making the blades spin. Simple yet effective entertainment!

      We then had dinner and I helped Satya with the dishes. And so many dishes! It's incredible haha. But as a team we managed quite quickly. I've become pretty good at it as I've made it my job to help with that at the very least ;) After dinner the "boys" and I played cards again in our room. I really like this rummy game, I'll be sure to teach you guys at home how to play! I really feel like part of the family here. I was worried at first that I'd feel a bit left out because there would be a Japanese group and a Nepali group but I've been adopted by the Nepali's and I love it. Warm and fuzzy feelings ;)
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    • Japanese Group Arrives, Sirubari, Lamjun

      7 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

      What a jam packed day.

      I woke up fairly early and started packing my stuff up, preparing to move rooms. When the Japanese group arrives I'll be sleeping in the master room, with who will be a mystery until bed time. I'm learning to just trust that everything will work itself out in the end, a good mentality to have I think!

      Bed and I went to school breifly before walking down to Bhotewodar to meet up with the group. While we waited for the bus to arrive Bed did some shopping, bought some food for the Buffalos, we looked at some scarves in a fabric shop. I still don't really know how transactions work here. There seems to be a lot of chatting before making a purchase.. The fabric shop was pretty interesting though! There were bolts of fabrics lining the walls and mostly women would come in and feel the different ones and barter about prices (I assume). There were also gorgeous scarves that I would love to own. But of course I didn't think to bring much cash because I thought we'd be quick. I forgot about how unreliable the timing of buses is here in Nepal :p

      When the group finally arrived there was much excitement in the town. They arrived about the same time that the nearby school was finished and there were children crowding around staring, for once not at me! Well, not as much. The group was very receptive to it and are super friendly with everyone. Their leader speaks Japanese, Nepali, and English! And English very well, it will be nice to spend some time talking with him. Especially since he's going to school for the same thing I did.

      Instead of walking back to Sirubari we hired a Jeep. The group has lots of luggage! The ride was intense. The roads are bad enough to walk and the Jeep had a very hard time in some areas even with 4x4.. It was very sketchy. One mistake and game over. The drops are so sheer in some areas that the jeep could fall a very long way. The driver has a helper who gets out occasionally to direct tell him how far he has to the edge of the cliff.. I am not eager to do that ride ever again.. Not to mention how dusty it was! Luckily I had a scarf that I used to cover my mouth and nose with to keep the worst of it out. But I guess overall it was a good experience to have! In the cab of the jeep we squished 7 people and sitting in the bed, on top of the luggage, were 9 people. I sat inside next to Satya but could hear those in the back laughing and screaming! A new experience for them. For me, I think I prefer the walk ;)

      The group is made of 9 Japanese students and 3 Nepali's including Satya! Which means that there will be 16 people sleeping here tonight. It'll be crowded, glad I have the privilege of sleeping in the bigger room! Turns out I'll be sharing the room with Bed and Sudarsan, the Volunteer Coordinator who arranged my placement here. Yogendra, the other Nepali guide will sleep outside the room while Satya, Bobita, and Grandma will share the TV room. The 9 Japanese will share the two rooms that previously Satya and I each had to ourselves. Not a bad deal for me at least!

      When we finally made it to the house the Japanese group went to the cistern to wash their hair and faces. Satya and I went with them and she showed them how to do things properly. No soap anywhere near the water storage and nothing goes in that might be soapy. I left before they finished and went back to the house, I had the intention of writing a bit but instead went to see the sunset! Sudarsan showed me a secret spot, one that I think I'll be back to. It's up past the cistern a bit and has a clear view of the valley below. Very pretty and peaceful! We sat for a bit and chatted before heading down to the school where we could hear the Japanese group talking. I showed them around a bit, they're very excited to see the school tomorrow!

      With so many people we ate dinner outside and I think they were a bit surprised at first to see me eating with my hands, but I'm proud of my accomplishments ;)

      Immediately after dinner Bed, Sudarsan, Yogendra and myself went up to our bedroom to play cards and share some wine. It was a very nice feeling to be included with that! I guess I fit in decently or something ;) Both Sudarsan and Yogendra are funny guys and speak English quite well. It was a treat to be teased and to be able to understand the jokes being said. I think it'll be a great few days!

      Oh, and at some point we finalized my plans for my remaining time in Nepal. I'm going to skip Chitwan and stay in Sirubari until the 14th. Then I'll go to Kathmandu and stay at Sudarsan's house until I leave for Singapore. While in Kathmandu I'll help him with some photo and logo editing and try to help him start building a website for his Eco tourism company. Something that I'm very interested in! I would love to get a group together from home to come to Nepal one day. It would be similar to what the Japanese group is doing, seeing the major sites over just less than 2 weeks (or longer if possible). I'd get to see the places I missed and reconnect with my new family! I will have to look into making that possible. I'm not sad at all that I'm missing seeing Pokhara and Chitwan because there is so much to do here at the school before I leave. More now because the Japanese group brought a laptop with them and I want to help my teacher friend learn the great operating system that is Windows 8.. Too bad it couldn't have been Windows 10, but I know that they are incredibly excited to have the laptop at the school!! It'll be a great learning tool for the students if I can share some of my knowledge with Ganesh before I leave. Internet searching, video calling, Microsoft Office, that kind of thing. He's smart so I know that he'll make the best use of it :)
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    • Sirubari, Lamjung

      6 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

      I'm starting to be able to tell time by when I get hungry! Meals are much more consistent here than at home, intriguing to me how my body has come to expect food at certain times. At home I rarely ever eat at the same time each day..

      Anyway, I started the day out by "showering" as tomorrow a group of Japanese will be arriving and I won't have any privacy I imagine. 12 people are coming to stay here! I don't even know where they will sleep, or where I will sleep. Maybe I'll volunteer to sleep outside so I'm not crowded in a small space with a group of strangers...

      School today was fun and busy. I spent the morning helping my friend with some internet stuffs and just chatting. I also had a good conversation with the English teacher about home and how we do things there. That's why the thought about the regular meals, because while talking to him is when I had that realization that I don't eat consistently at home. I'll have to rectify that on my return! Strangley enough discussing what kind of foods we eat didn't give me any cravings. Even writing about it now I can't think of anything I'd rather have than dal baht. I really need to find a Nepalese Cookbook before I leave because I can't remember all the variations that Bobita makes here!

      I also spent some time explaining how someone might come to visit Canada, how the visa process works etc. There were a few people very interested in that information. I think it would be great to have visitors in Canada! Very expensive for them though as our dollar is worth much more than the NPR. Maybe one day. If all else fails I will have to come back because I definitely love this group of people!

      I did a lot of teaching of English today too. For class 5, 6, and 7. (No computers today because the keys have been misplaced...) The levels of comprehension vary so much in each class it's quite difficult to make sure everyone understands. I understand my previous teacher's perspectives now... I think I definitely prefer one on one instruction, or when everyone is interested in the subject. There's a lot of copying of answers that goes on and a lot of the time the students don't want to think about the answers they just want me to give them the answers. Some students are so bright and eager to learn though it makes a big difference! Wish I could help more.

      After school I went with Bed to a tree somewhere in a field so he could cut branches for the goats to eat. I sat and enjoyed the view and the peace and quiet of the mountains while he did his work. It's amazing how much sound echoes and travels though! I could almost hear a conversation from across the valley clearly. It reminds me of how sound travels across the lake... Gotta remember that for future phone calls home. Also watching him climb the tree and cut those branches was impressive! I don't think that I'd even make it to the first branch lol. But maybe I should try, it's been many many years since I've climbed a tree ;) Again, I kind of wish I could stay longer and really learn to live this lifestyle instead of mostly observing. There are some things that I help with but there is still so much I don't know!

      After dinner we watched some tv and I managed to copy some videos from my phone to a flash drive that we connected to the tv. So nice to hear english being spoken! We didn't finish the movie though because it was late, maybe tomorrow. I gave the Maple syrup that I brought from home to Bed and Bobita and they were very excited about it. I hadn't thought of it, but the bottle is really pretty too! They were excited about that as much as the syrup itself. I explained how we use it and maybe I'll try making pancakes before I go.

      On the note of leaving, I cancelled my 3 day trip to Pokhara because I don't want to miss any time here. Plus it will be interesting to see the Japanese group and what role they'll be playing here. The group is only staying for three nights and then they head to Chitwan. I might go with them for a few days and then head back to Kathmandu before continuing my journey. Really, everything is up in the air and I'm just going with the flow. It's such a nice change from the rigid, structure of home! I really love just seeing where things take me and not having a plan :) I've had some feedback from people telling me I should see as much as I can while I'm here, but that's not what the purpose of my travels are. I'm here to experience the culture, learn about the people and myself, not to see a different city every few days. I'm making connections and building relationships, and to me that's more important that checking off must see's from a list. Plus, the next phase of my trip will have enough moving around I'm happy to stay put for now!
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    • Sirubari, Lamjung

      5 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

      School again today! And before school, the neighbour boy came over looking for help with his English homework so we worked on that before breakfast. When I got to school I managed to talk to Kris, Grandpa, and Barb for a bit! I then spent the rest of the day working on the computers. It's so frustrating with these random power outages. In the middle of installing Microsoft Office the power went out and corrupted the installation... Now the programs won't open, I can't repair the installation, or uninstall the programs.. At a loss of what to do! And, all the other computers are working mostly fine now but there aren't enough working keyboards and mice to use them all! Or enough power outlets for that matter. In the afternoon Class 8 came into the computer room and oh boy was it a zoo! They were all so eager to use the computers that I had a hard time keeping track of everyone yelling my name asking for help etc. They were all very excited though, so that was good. At the very end of the day the number of people dwindled to 4, the number of working mice and keyboards and I was able to actually teach a few things about computer use instead of having almost 15 kids asking questions at once with only 4 computers working.

      I was so exhausted after school that I was fighting sleep before dinner. I read a bit and could barely keep my eyes open. Hope I'm not going to get the cold that's going around as bad as the other's have it! Called it an early night and hoping to sleep well.
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    • Free Day, Sirubari, Lamjung

      4 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

      Day off today! Spent it by doing not a whole heck of a lot. I impressed myself with how easily I can still read French when I was reading medicine pamphlets. Grandma has a bad cough :(

      After breakfast, Beda showed me the fields that they own and work. They're maybe a 5 or 10 minute walk from the house and to me it looks like a lot of land! But he was saying that it's not very much. On the way there we saw a bunch of monkeys!! Finally I was able to really observe them as Beda was cutting food for the animals. They're kind of eerie, monkeys are. Clearly somewhat intelligent, they just look devious to me. They're pretty fun to watch though, swinging from various tree to tree, and sometimes landing on a branch that can't support their weight. Anyway, right now the fields aren't growing too much because it's the dry and cold season but you can see where rice has grown before and where it will again. The fields are staggered down the mountain side in various patches and each area has a lip or curb maybe 4-6" high. I assume that's to keep the water in, apparently during monsoon season the fields fill with water, which makes sense as I've also thought that's how rice is grown.. It's a lot of work though to grow and maintain the crops! I hear that a lot of young people don't want to do it anymore and are moving away, to the city etc. Too bad really.

      After spending some time in the fields we returned home and then I went off in search of a strong enough signal and some privacy to call home. The fields would have been the perfect place! But too far away, and I managed to escape without a twisted ankle once, wouldn't want to risk that again. How these people navigate the treacherous footing here without incident will never cease to amaze me. Anyway, I found a spot along the route to school that had a decent signal and a nice rock to sit on in the sun. I ended up getting a hold of Kevin, I'm glad he answered! At almost 10pm on a Friday night for him. As corny as it sounds my brother really is one of my best friends :p We had a good chat and I could hear some familiar voices in the background too! Was nice to hear, I look forward to seeing everyone when I'm home again but am also very very content where I am right now.

      When I eventually wandered back to the house I spent the afternoon just lounging. Watched a movie that I had on my phone while cleaning up my room a bit, organizing things, repainting my nails, etc. I really do like my alone time apparently... But I also like to be social, selectively lol. This trip has shown me just how happy I am to be on my own, more than I ever suspected as at home I'm usually so busy I hardly have a moment to myself. That will have to be adjusted when I return! Nothing wrong with taking the time to eat by myself or read my book or just not talk to people at all. But as I said, I do also really enjoy talking to people when I can't handle reading a book any longer. Doesn't happen as often as I thought it would though ;)

      We had a late dinner and I went to bed very early. Feels like I've also caught the cold that's going around, hoping sleep will help fight it!
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    • Sirubari, Lamjung

      3 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

      Today was a half day at school and I spent the day with the computers. There are two that are stumping me! One runs but the graphics are so ridiculously off that I'm sure there's a hardware issue somewhere. I think that the proper drivers etc are all there... The second computer just sometimes decides not to turn on. But, I'll keep fiddling with them and see if I can't get them to work. But I'm afraid that time is starting to run out! I had a good chat with my teacher friend as we tried to get the computers working together. He's a very intelligent person, self taught and passed his Master's exams as he was working at the school full time and running a household. True dedication. Makes me realize that I can probably do my next level of education and work at the same time if I really want to ;) And I think that I've decided I do! While I've been here I've been missing work go figure... I definitely enjoy what I do and have decided that I do want to go back to school in September. One day get my professional registration. I've also decided I want to get back into teaching/tutoring. Guess that was what I wanted to figure out while I was travelling, if more school is something I want to do. Check one. Also been re-examining my views on religion and spirituality but no update on that topic yet.

      After school we returned home and were invited to the neighbour's for lunch. They definitely fed us well! The neighbours are becoming quite familiar to me now. Thier daughter fell and cut her foot quite badly a while ago and I gave her the Polysporin I had. The man is the same one we played cards with once before and walked home from town with. Anyway, when we went over there he gave us tikka and gave me a small amount of money as well.. Apparently you do that for daughters or sisters. Guess I've been accepted! That acceptance makes me want to leave even less. Anyway, we ate and socialized for a while before heading back home.

      I decided to take a walk to the market that's about 15 minutes away. It took me almost 3 hours to get there and back! Along the way I was 'accosted' by 3 students and spent some time with them. Their parents were out working the fields, but I did see them briefly. Their mother is a teacher at the school and is always very friendly. The little boy is my BFF at the school as I've been describing him to some friends. He's just so adorable! The cutest 5 year old you've ever seen I swear. I have lots of pictures, he's not camera shy, but for obvious reasons I'm not going to post pictures of other people's children on the internet.. You'll have to ask me to send them haha. Although I just learned I can make semi-private posts on this website so maybe I'll do that.. So there are three children in this family, two older girls and the one young boy. They were very eager to have me visit their home and we're showing off their buffalo and goats and all the fruit trees they have at their home. They invited me to stay for dinner and seemed genuinely disappointed when I told them I couldn't. Maybe another time.. Their mother also told me that when/if I come back my future husband and I are more than welcome to eat and sleep at her house! I was very warmed by her invitation. Funny how it always comes back to finding a husband regardless of who I talk to. I had another teacher ask me if I planned on finding one when I returned to Canada. My response to him was "sure, but I'm not going to be looking very hard" that made him laugh and change the subject. Back to the visit, the children insisted that I eat a papaya with them! And proceeded to knock one out of a tree. Reminded me of Dad telling us stories about throwing rocks at mangoes to get them to fall when he was living in Brazil. It was a pretty good papaya too! Not really ripe yet but delicious. I really do enjoy all this fresh, local food. I think I've been inspired to try and start growing things at home.. Small things though because I have a hard time keeping plants alive ;)

      When I finally made it to the market they didn't have what I was looking for so instead I bought some small candies for the three kids I had just left and brought them to them on my way home. They were very appreciative!

      When I returned home I learned that we wouldn't be having an official dinner which I was quite okay with. Lunch was so big and so late that I wasn't really hungry anyway! So Bobita made us some small snacks and Beda and I played cards. We were joined by the neighbour at some point and the three of us played. I like the game that we were playing, though as the night wore on I stopped paying as close attention and started to lose :p The game is similar to Rummy I think? Each player is dealt 10 cards and the first person to make either sequences or similar numbers in groups of 4, 3, and 3 won the hand. The game is played using the jokers, and before play starts the deck is cut to reveal what another wild card is. The wild card is one number higher than the card displayed at the cut. At least one of the groups has to be a sequence, and sequences are important to build first. The game is played to 100 and If someone were to get their 3 groups before you built a sequence, you would earn all the points in your entire hand. If you have a sequence when someone goes out then you don't count those cards in your score, or any other pairs or sequences you might have. Kind of fun!

      The other thing that I've noticed in addition to a different sense of personal space, is that people here can be very curious. I've now been asked my weight at least 5 times by random people... Good thing that I'm not self concious! Because it's not seen as rude to ask these sorts of questions like it is at home. Part of it probably is because I'm so tall. I've been told by two people that I look slimmer now than when I first arrived and I've also been told that I look very athletic and am very strong. Apparently I look more muscular than most women here? I dunno, but I'm okay with it! In any case, I kind of enjoy how direct people are here as I get used to it. Maybe I'll start asking my own questions that I've been avoiding in case they're considered impolite ;)
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    • Besisahar, Lamjung

      2 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ⛅ 19 °C

      Today I went with Beda to Besisahar, a nearby town for the afternoon. He had business to attend to and I wanted to see a bit of the area, see a bigger town. Besisahar is about an hour away by bus from Bhotewodar. We first went to school for a bit so Beda could collect some things and then we made our way down. All I can say about the bus ride is thank God I don't get car sick! The poor people sitting next to me were groaning and looked absolutely miserable. Just imagine a vehicle the size of a minivan with about 15 people piled in racing down a road no better than the East Harrison FSR. I'm not surprised that accidents are so common here. What an adventure. With everything that I love about Nepal, I do not love the roads and don't think I will ever get used to them. No thank you! But of course, because I have a driver's liscense at home, I've been asked why I don't rent a car. Ha. It's worse than Mexico. Narrow and winding roads, drivers honking around blind corners to alert other drivers to your presence, no guards on the steep cliff edges, broken down vehicles, random cattle/goats on the side of the road, etc etc. It's utter chaos. But, on the plus side I now feel confident that I will find the correct bus to Pokhara when I do go, and know how to pay and how much it will cost :P

      Once we arrived in Besisahar, our first stop was the school district office. I waited outside talking to someone about the differences between Canada and Nepal. Though really, the man - an English teacher - only wanted to talk about Trump. I swear, people know more about American politics half way around the world than most Americans do. And I learned a lot about how America is currently seen, from an outsiders perspective, to be the next Hitler or the next failing nation with Trump as President. Of course he wanted my opinion, which I don't really have. People here find it hard to believe that I would intentionally avoid forming an opinion about politics of a country that I'm not a citizen of. Or, maybe the truth is just that I don't want to share my opinion. As long as Canada doesn' t suffer I'm happy! And that's enough about that.

      We made a few more stops and ended at the post office. Beda had received a package from a volunteer in Canada! Though it was sent from Bellevue. Made me think of home! I'm very curious about what's in the package... And about who sent it, tempted to see if we could arrange a meeting when I'm home haha. Anywho, guess we'll see what's in it later! Maybe after dinner.

      Besisahar is definitely much larger than Bhotewodar, and has far more buildings, large stores, and I received less stares, guess foreigners are more common. I saw signs for trekking route nearby so there must be a few people that pass through from out of town. Overall, it was worth a visit! The drive there especially was fascinating once I just decided to ignore the bouncing and the sharp corners and looked at the view. The road follows a big river and was beautiful. We passes a pretty big dam too that produces a good amount of Nepal's electricity. The terrain is so rocky, so steep, and so wild. The Jungle just creeps in everywhere, I love it!

      When we got back to Bhotewodar we stopped for a bite to eat at the same place as yesterday. Again the chicken was very spicy but very delicious! We then made our way back up to Sirubari taking a route I haven't gone before. The views were even better along this way! Although the pathway was even less of a path and involved clamouring up some very narrow rock chutes. Could hardly be considered a trail really, except that clearly it's used by people fairly regularly. I am getting in better shape though, the walk is becoming easier! We stopped a few times to rest and chatted a bit, was a good walk home. I showed Beda pictures of my home and we compared culture and stories of our respective countries.

      For those who are wondering, my knee is actually feeling better than ever! For the most part... I've discovered how to walk so that it isn't irritated and how to avoid triggering the pain. My right knee, my trouble knee, only twinges occasionally now, when I'm walking down particularly steep stairs. My left knee has been bothering me more than the right actually. I think it's probably over compensating. But it's a dull burning pain, not a sharp stabbing pain that makes me feel like I'm going to collapse. In general, both knees feel more stable and less inclined to twist about like they had been at home! Muscles must be getting stronger. My hips on the other hand are absolutely killing me.. They ache so badly, but only when I'm sitting cross legged. At every other time they feel fine... I've been stretching and trying to get them feeling better but who knows if it's actually doing anything or not. Hopefully they start feeling better soon though because I need to be able to continue sitting cross legged! Actually, it's really only first thing in the morning or after standing long periods that they hurt, when they're stiff. After moving about during the day they seem to be fine. Just old and achy ;)

      Update: in the package were some useful items for the house! Some food containers, a backpack, some lanterns and batteries, small samples of alcohol from home. Gives me ideas of what I could send! Will have to think on what's going to be most useful.. Time to start a list ;)
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    • Worship Day, Sirubari, Lamjung

      1 lutego 2017, Nepal ⋅ ☀️ 36 °C

      Welp. Let me preface this post by saying that the Nepalese wine is starting to taste like water and I wish I hadn't left my headlamp at the house, walking back in the dark from town is no joke!

      So today was not technically a school day, it was a day of prayer at the school which some teachers showed up to and some didn't. Some students were there and some weren't. Because I'm not of their religion they had me take pictures of those who did show up, a very neat experience! The whole process was called Puja. They set up a poster of one of their Gods, and made offerings of water, flowers, a branch in excrement, fire, etc. Beda led the prayers and the students were all attentive. There was tikka involved as well, and everyone was excited! At one point the flame caught the poster on fire but a quick student put it out. Not before it caught a portion of the hill on fire though... The staff were largely unconcerned, and there was no panic by anyone while the situation was assessed. When it started spreading up towards the playing field a few students broke branches off a bush and wacked the flames out. I was very surprised by the lack of concern, but I guess this is a common thing in the dry season and usually the fires burn themselves out... Very impressed with the lack of panic too! Definitely pays to be calm ;)

      After worship we returned home to eat as we hadn't yet today. Then Beda and I walked into town together. Didn't really know why we were going when we went but it was something to do instead of sitting at home, so I kept him company. He showed me the bus stop where I'll catch the bus to Pokhara next week and explained that it will be very easy for me to find the bus. Apparently because I'm a tourist the drivers will be very vocal about their destination because they think they can over charge me. Which I was expecting, but I now know that the price should be about 250-300 NPR so I won't be scammed ;) We walked around the town for a bit and I saw so many things I want to bring home but don't have the space for :( the woven stools for example that everyone here has and the water "jugs" everyone uses. They just take up so much space but are so practical and useful! Maybe I'll check to see if I can get them at home.. Or just suck it up and pay the shipping fees.

      Anyway, in town we stopped by the English Teacher's home where he lives with his wife and children. I think that he stays in Sirubari during the week though because I see him most mornings coming from the village not from Bhotewodar. From the calendar on his wall it would appear that his children go to an English Boarding school? Anyway, he made us a pancake like pastry and tea before we went out. He and Beda had some business to discuss in town, sounds like they're trying to buy some land and build a house in town instead of living in the village but it's expensive and there are tight regulations about where you can build. While they discussed, I read my book and observed the people. It's definitely beautiful there! I wish that it could be captured on camera properly, the extensive fields, some cultivated some wild and overrun with flowers. A house here and there, cows and goats randomly grazing, the occasional person harvesting vegetables. All with the mountains in the background and the sound of the river overriding the traffic noise. It was very peaceful and serene, definitely not a bad place to spend an hour!

      On our way back to Sirubari we ran into one of Beda's friends from the village, the same one we played cards with the other day, and the three of us had a bite to eat. It was incredibly spicy chicken! Thank goodness I can handle spice because it was hot! Delicious, but hot. I think I surprised the locals there by being able to handle it because they all watched my first bite haha. While we were eating, the girl working there brought glasses of what I thought was water. Thankfully I didn't take a big sip right away like I wanted to! Becuase it was wine. That was a surprise haha. I feel like I'm adapting pretty well to the local culture here, but there is still one thing I struggle with: when chicken is served, it's diced without being deboned first, and you're expected to eat everything aside form the bone, including the cartilage etc. I just can't figure it out, nor want to risk my stomach rebelling. So I leave far more behind on my plate than the others but oh well. Anyway, after finishing our two glasses of wine and our meal we proceeded onwards.

      We ran into another person returning to the village on the way and he joined our crew walking back. We made a pit stop at a house along the way to purchase some more wine. We stayed there and had a glass or two before continuing back home. As a result of our frequent stops we watched the sun go down and then the daylight fade (it stays light for much longer here after the sun goes behind the mountains that it does at home) We ended up making the final walk in the dark! It wasn't so bad by moonlight until we got into the steep steps in the trees where there's hardly any light. Thankfully I had a bit of a charge left of my phone and was able to use my flashlight. Next time I go to town I'm bringing my headlamp!! So one light for 4 people, but I think they're all used to it, just me who's a pansy and worried about breaking an ankle ;)

      When we finally made it home we ate, I did the dishes, and we watched some TV. Sounds like tomorrow Beda is going to a nearby town to pick something up for the school, about an hour from Bhotewodar by bus. I might go with him and see some more of the area! Though honestly that means one less day at the school and that breaks my heart a little bit. There are still things I want to do with the computers before I go!! And friendships to continue building. Definitely wish I could stay longer! It'll be sad when I leave, but maybe I'll come back one day :)
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