Dancing with the fireflies under the Himalayan stars with Mt. Nupste and Everest looking over.

Last night, the Bastolas celebrated a new home. I was led to the house, a stones throw away through the tall corn fields, by many of the Bastola children. I'm sure more than 50 of the Bastola caste was present. The women led the music with singing, traditional drums and other instruments while many of us danced Nepali style! We ate a second dinner out of woven leaves. Have I mentioned that they force feed you here! I've lost my appetite yet my plate is heavy and I'm expected to finnish it ALL. And yes I eat with my fingers and hands. Oh how Granny Burden would be rolling in her grave! An unforgettable Nepali experience indeed!

I feel like the 'Pied Piper of Hamlet' here! The children arrive home from school every day and spend the rest of the sunup with me. I'm relieved to be able to talk fluid english! Their schooling is mostly held in English so when I'm stumped by a communication barrier, they are close to translate. What would I do without them! These children are beautiful and I'm sure to miss them when I leave. They are full of laughter, young enough to not understand their poverty....yet.

My health post is a beautiful 10 minutes walk from my home. I see views of the terraced rice fields and the Himalaya, including Everest!!! The health post, unlike many in Nepal is adequately stocked with medication and supplies for most common ailments although the cleanliness makes me cringe (hence gastritis being very common) medications are haphazardly placed in a dirty cupboard. Despite the obvious lack of sanitation, locals get all their health care for free including many forms of contraception. Free health care. Such a novelty!

I am asked constantly what America is like. The answers always to the contrary. Shoba's cousin asked "do you eat rice three times a day or just twice in America"? I was blown away mostly by his reaction when I told him sometimes not even once in one week. I was having a similar conversation with Bimal (my "brother"). I told him that there are many people that have money but are not happy. I emmediately felt stupid for saying that. How could he possibly relate! Poverty, poverty, poverty. I'm surrounded by this.

I will admit that my living sitaution is a challenge. Completely out of my comfort zone. Far from any communication (except for my weekly trip to Pokhara) and far from 'comfort'. But, I will say that I love my Nepali family, and they love me. They always refer to me as "Annie mahyah". Annie my love. As my mother said "people who have little know how to give much with their heart".

I feel fortunate. I'm reminded of my PRIVILEGE every minute of my time here. I know I'll leave Nepal a different person.......for many years I've had this knowing that year 28 would be life changing for me. Here it is!