What a week!

Has it really only been 5 days??? We have found ourselves completely immersed in life here - we are guests of honor at every event we attend and honorary members of the family in each household we visit. I can't even begin to count how many moments every day take my breath away, inspire me, and open my mind. From seeing a newborn baby girl in her first moments of life at a small hospital in Pune, to an early morning hike to a hilltop temple as the sun rises and the smell of incense floats on the breeze, to a ride in a bullock cart pulled by oxes on a farm in Talegaon... sometimes it's hard to believe that this isn't all just a dream! Although the farewell to our first host families was an emotional one, I am now known as "Di Di" (older sister) in a new home with 2 adorable little girls who follow my every step around the house and are fascinated by the album of pictures I brought with me of friends and family back in Canada.

Our hosts have noticed how ofen we say "thank you" and are trying to get us out of the habit. They laugh at how often we do it and are having a difficult time changing our ways as there are so many things for us to be thankful for! They tell us that when you are part of the family, there is no need to say "thank you" - that it is too formal and that the appreciation is understood. When I asked what I could do to communicate how thankful I am, they advised to focus on commenting on the other things such as how delicious the meal is. .. Given the elaborate and mouth watering food we are offered every day, this should be the easiest thing in the world!

Pictures promised soon!