India

And... We are in India. It's pretty amazing to be here. I know people are just chomping at the bit waiting to here all about our adventures and see how our humble family survived in the land of 1.2 billion people.

While I only have my iPad at the moment, I'll just summarize a few things that really are worth mentioning, things that surprised me....


The first most amazing thing is the railway system. I am completely impressed this system carries more than 2 million people and 22 million tons of cargo daily. Even more impressed is it's efficiency and (once you figure it out) ease to make reservations. A major triumph when I made my first reservation. ( unlike busses or planes, the train may start a long time before you get in and go for a long time after you get off....)


1. Having not researched enough about the local culture and religions, I realized 90% of what was in my suitcase was offensive! Delhi is predominately Hindu with a bit of Muslim, women show nothing... Knees and shoulders covered. I am thankful for the recent weight loss as I did bring a pair of longer Capri pants I wouldn't have otherwise.


2. 112*F (44*C) is really hot.

3. NO SMOKING! Seriously, the signs say, "No smoking, it is an offense!"

4. Fresh drinking water free at many public places! Huge respect for the government willing to make sure it's citizens drink clean water, free of charge!


5. In a city of more than 25 million, I never saw the same saree twice.

6. The poorest of women carry themselves with pride and humility.

5. Poverty in a train station will bring you to your knees as you see dirty barefooted children canvassing the tracks for empty water bottles.

6. Gandhi was amazing.

7. Women don't work for the most part. Our last stop is Mumbai, the most cosmopolitan and western city in India... So I am sure it is different.

8. The northern men love their women plump! Sitting by the pool in my very tiny bikini, I felt awkwardly self conscience about my weight.... I am pretty much a bean pole!

9. In Old Delhi, time seems to have stood still.... Men are working selling everything needed (not a tourist area) all secs of most eastern religions are working side by side in harmony.

10. I have never been hassles by so many touts in my life. Even with all the warnings and readings, they are so convincing... It was a bit scary.

11. in the north, my children were continuously photographed. It was sweet, interesting but at times very disturbing. There were a few instances we had to shield Emily like a movie star.


More later...