The Best Part of India

When we started looking at going to India, I contacted Rebekah to ask her some questions. As we got closer to going, I asked if I could bring her anything while I was there. She mentioned that what she missed the most was people. I totally understand what she meant. As beautiful as many things were, the best part about India was the people.

So when you go to India....

....look all around you. There are artists restoring the beauty of their forts/homes everywhere.

Look out for their guards. They pack some serious heat.

The kitchens are pretty open. Hang out by the men that make your meals.

As India is a place of tourists, you run in to some interesting individuals.

Look for moms that carry sweet cubby cheeked, henna-handed babies.

If you are there is wedding season, you HAVE to see a wedding procession in which a band, dancers, fireworks, and a wheel of spinning lights lead a groom on a decorated horse to the home of his bride.

As you walk the markets, look for children doing their studies.

While waiting for a tuk tuk, don't overlook the children throwing paper airplanes over electical wires. And if they accidently hit you with one, laugh. You'll become a human target but the joy on their faces make being a bull's eye totally worth it.

If you get the chance, spend time in a home. They were so hospitable (like the Bhutanese) and so gracious even when you look this rough and tired.

During your boat tour on the Ganges, watch for people praying and offering flowers/candles to the river. Even if the pictures are blurry, they help you remember their sweet faces.

If you find yourself in a shop, take time to visit with the shop owners. Not only do they have beautiful things, but they are so proud of their work. They are friendly and can be pretty funny too.

As you walk along the ghats, you will see all kinds of people working and worshipping. Sometimes it is a bit of both.

You will also see cricket. Everywhere. You have to watch where you are going because sometimes you don't realize that you are walking/standing in the middle of the game.

Even if you do interrupt it, that's alright. They may even let you play.