Random Thoughts

Tuesday, August 17, 2010, Chennai
9:27a.m.  India Time

I find it interesting, but not surprising, that nearly every driver has representations of god on his (or her) dashboard. The most fascinating thing, of course, is the wide variety of representations, from Ganesha to Buddha to Jesus.

I love talking with Uncle and Aunty. They are amazing people. Both are extremely well-educated and intelligent, on top of being kind and loving souls. Aunty is a doctor, although she is retired and can only treat her family and close friends now. She has a reputation for being able to diagnose any illness by a process of elimination. People from all over, even friends and family abroad would always call Aunty when they were sick. This is an incredible gift to have anywhere, but especially here when too much delay in figuring out what is wrong can easily mean death. Aunty's grandfather was also a very famous doctor who was invited to go all over the world. Aunty was also given the opportunity to travel as a doctor in her younger years.

Uncle is very kind. He was a college professor in Engineering, I believe. He is very hard of hearing, so it's difficult to have a conversation with him. You have to talk loudly and slowly. I'm good at the loud part. Still, I just like to listen to him talk. He always has interesting things to say. He is looking forward to taking me to some places, and I am looking forward to going! He always tells me I don't eat enough. I feel like I eat like a horse! Of course, he's not counting all the things I eat when I go out with Raja or Anni.

Today the plan is pretty open. I know I have to go to the tailor to see if my clothes are ready, and if they fit right. (I hope so!) Later this evening, after Raja is done at work, we're going to a bookstore. Uh-oh...I love books, but they're heavy. The textiles I bought are already heavy enough. I don't want to pay extra for over weight baggage.

When Anni gets here, we'll make a loose plan for the rest of my visit, including a plan for some days with no plan. :) Next Sunday, we travel to Bangalore, so I have to think of things to do there, too, other than shop!

I really like my outfit today. It's purple and green, which is one of my favorite color combinations. I'll post a picture with tonight's recap of the day.

Until then, be good!