Update for Mumbai and Tazania

Photos from Tanzania



















Feb. 18, 2010
Around 4am finally got to Max Chinai’s house. At 8:30am I got up to have tea with Max and his son. The tea was a lot stronger then the others I have had in India. I was asked to introduce myself and say what my expectations were. To be true I really don’t have many. Not that I don’t expect anything just I want to try and not worry about getting things done. Live day by day as if the Lord is coming that day. Although it is really hard and I still am kicking myself for not having my Bible or remembering verses. I remember a few but never a reference. I have been having praise songs come into my head, Thank you AWANA!
I worked on a few things. I fixed one of the guys shirt. It was nice to but my skills to use. I then napped for here and there. I then wanted to go eat but didn’t want to go by myself so Anh was kind enough to come with me and we headed to subway that is super close to the house. How much have I been craving a sandwich that I even had turkey on it! I am so proud of myself for being adventurous this trip.
I finished hand washing few things I didn’t give to the washman before working on different stuff. Then I headed to the area looking down on the beach. I was able to watch a beautiful Indian Sunset over the shore. It was interesting to see the beach full of people. Its as if the live revolves around the beach at sunrise and sunset. People were playing soccer, cricket and other games. Some were just walking along the shore and some sitting on and around rocks. Twice I saw people riding horses on the shore in the surf zone, not something seen in the U.S. that’s for sure. Some people were walking their dogs. One had a German Sheppard which is the first I have seen since getting out of the U.S. I hung out on the lawn for awhile and then Sigrid let us go to her room and make phone calls home.
It was really hard not to start crying over the phone as I called mom and dad for the first time since Hawaii. It was like 6am for them but they seemed happy that I called them. I was limited to 5 minutes and went about 6 minutes. I really wish I had more time and I wish I asked Mom to pray with me but I ran out of time. I think tomorrow I am going to ask if I can call and ask right away to have mom pray with me. After that I headed back to the room and got some dinner at subway again.


Feb. 19, 2010
Having Just called my parents I am feeling much better. I have felt a hunger for the Lord and been feeling very down and having a hard time with being in a area that is against God and around people who openly defy and make fun of my Lord and Savior.
So today at 7am we had tea with Max and his son. It was nice and they talked about some of their Hiram experience. We then headed out for downtown sight seeing.
Downtown
-Gopi’s washing clothes. It was an area that all the clothes come and are washed. Some people were waving to us. Once again we were badgered by people to get us to buy things.
-University but couldn’t get into the library because the guards said no even though everyone else told us we could. It was just them pushing their weight around on us.
-Saw the Mercy and Justice statues: Justice as a one eyed monkey messing with the scales.
-Victoria Terminal. It was really crowded to get to but it was a pretty station and looked better then all the other stations. It’s a huge station and also a world heritage site.
-Gate of India. It was a gate made for one of the kings to come into Mumbai. Its right next to the water. Right across form it is the Taj Mahal Hotel were a terrorist attack happened where guests were shot in there rooms and the place was lighted on fire. A gruesome attack on foreigners.
-Taj Mahal Hotel: We went inside and had to go through a ton of security and got into the new building. Its really an upclass hotel and expensive. We went to the staircase and Denny told us a little about what happened. Some people felt uncomfortable being there and I don’t blame them.
-We then headed Leopold for lunch but couldn’t get lunch but some did. Oh well. I then got some scarves for people and didn’t haggle very well. I also got some Indian garb for myself. They need some tailoring because they are cheap. I think when I get home I am going to go to the fabric district and find some scarves material that matches the embroidery on them. The pants will need some work as well but I didn’t mind getting them and it give me something to work on when I get home. Maybe Nee-san will come with me.
We then headed back to the taxis and went to the shore drive area before heading to the hanging gardens. The gardens are very well kept for India and I think its due to Mumbai having a lot of richer people and it is a richer city altogether.
I got back and had coffee with Max. David, Sigrid and Denny. It was could to visit even if I didn’t really say anything. I was then able to make a phone call home and had mom and dad pray with me.
-Got ready for the wedding
I went to eat with the group. Maybe I have been skimping on the meals but at the same time I look at the price before my stomach and don’t splurge on things, if it looks too pricy I will go somewhere else. Here I am fine with subway but people keep thinking I am not eating enough. I am its just I try not to spend too much to save. Also that means in the end of each place I can eat better ; )
Got back and went on the balcony until the bride showed up. She was wearing red with the dress just covered in jewels and glitter. She has henna on hands and feet and bangles, some that tangle down like bells and look really heavy. The groom is in a ivory with glitter stuff on it. Max son introduced us and the Bride spoke in English to me. This wedding is the reception part. Basically everyone just comes and eats and greets the bride and groom. They have been standing since 10pm and its past midnight. Supposedly they don’t eat until most of the other people have eaten and when they eat people are watching them and they have to eat slow so that people can take pictures.
One of the girls got surrounded by the kids while others by university students. One little girl asked me my religion, which was very interesting. I answered Baptist because that is the closest to what I am. How interesting because I just had mom and dad pray for me today. Have some irritation to the group and I think its because I am so tired and my mind and body are under stress.
So tea tomorrow at 9am and then hopefully brunch/breakfast and then group agreed that we have to finish the blog after breakfast and then start on the second blog after lunch. I hope to caught up on journals, blogs, letters and my essay.

Feb. 20, 2010
Tea at 9am this time due to the late night last night. The lawn is just a mess with trash everywhere. I feel sorry for the people who have to pick it up.
I’m not feeling good and just emotions are all jacked up right now. I was able to call home and talk to mom, Paula, Nee-san and Mrs. Smith. It was good but mom fell and hurt herself at work. I shouldn’t worry but I am. It will all work out in the end.
. The group got together and it went blah and I am frustrated so I took it to David for a review. In the end I ended up blowing up at my group and slammed the door and walked out. I really shouldn’t have done that.
Got in dress for pictures and Swami G. I was still upset and must have looked like a spoiled kid. Swami G came and I listen but started to fall asleep. Fell a little bit, oops! Some of the kids were interested and some weren’t but for the different reasons then the one I was making it hard for me to talk about it.
Mood was much better when heading out with some of the group to dinner. and was able to have a good conversation with one of the girls about movies and one of the guys gave me a small bag of Gummi bears!
Dinner was dumplings and noodles. So much food that I couldn’t finish.
Walked back and took a shower and packed up and found my brush which I couldn’t find most of the day..

Feb. 21, 2010
I woke up very refreshed and ready for tea. We then found out that it wasn’t until 9am and not 8am. As soon as my head hit the pillow I was back asleep. My body and mind were more tired then I thought. We then had tea and Max and his shared more about their time at Hiram.
Walked with one of the girls and headed to ATM. Pin wasn’t working so I couldn’t withdraw but my card still works because I found that out a lunch.
I then worked on essay and finished it and turned it in. That’s one less thing for me to worry about. Worked on more stuff before heading to lunch. That was getting to be bad because I had to pay with my card due to using some of the cash Denny had given to me. Finally Swaffy and Tim came with me to the Winery and ate there. There was a later dinner at 10pm so lunch was at like 3pm
Slept for at least 2 hours before getting up and finishing the blog to put it up.
Went to get blog up loaded. That was just disaster. I finally got the page up and the pictures didn’t show up. So I tried to upload them and it didn’t seem to be working. I did it 3 times and then stopped. Well they did upload they just weren’t showing me that it was finished until I refreshed the whole page. Then the pictures were to big and wouldn’t work on the page. Needless to say I had been working on it for an hour. So I was pissed and had a blow up again. I yelled at the others and sulked. Well the others are working on it now but how hard was it for them to help the first time? They kept saying I don’t care, so finally if they don’t care then we can all get F’s.
Went up for dinner, which was curry. It reminded me of the curry my mom first made when she started making curry, just no chicken in it. Nate talked to me and calmed me down. Then Denny came out with a cake and we started singing. I was looking at Max and said his name when I heard Swaffy and my name said. They had 3 cakes! And our names were on one. Nate brought mine out and I was able to blow out the candles. It was a mocha cake, chocolate truffle cake and pineapple cake. I was just so shocked that it made me super happy. Now I feel really bad about acting so bad earlier.
Harish and Max talked and then his son started talking about his mother and how he wished she could be here. He then opened a box and had each of us take a necklace or pair of earrings his mother had made. I started to tear up but due to the mad tears I didn’t have much left. It was just so wonderful to be here even if the rawr parts came out, but those were due to reasons not of this place.
Now heading to bed.

Feb. 22, 2010
Woke up at 2 and headed to the airport.
Airport. I had no problem getting through immigration but others did due that stamp again. I had some coffee and food and then plane.
Fell asleep and had some very weird dreams and then was woken up to food. We then landed in Ethiopia for a short layover. Ethiopia then plane to Tanzania. We stopped in Kenya for refueling and stayed on the plane.
We got to Tanzania and when I got out of the plane and it was raining and cloudy outside with some humidity.
Immigration was a hassle because you had to show that you had been vaccinated for yellow fever and such.
Got on the bus and got to the compound around 3pm. it’s a catholic compound and has a high school at it. I napped for a little bit.
Dinner at Pepes. We had pizza, pasta and fish.
Now going to bed in a mosquito net.

Feb. 23,2010
Woke up for breakfast around 7am. I then consolidated what I needed for 2 night in the bush and then locked my big bag and had it stored with everyone else’s bags.
At around 11am the safari vehicles came. They are land cruisers and can hold 7 in the back and then the driver and another person in front. Our driver is Simbo. When we got in he said Simbo or Simba worked as well. All the way he talked and pointed out stuff for us along the way.
It was then about a 2 hour drive to the first safari area. Along the way when I was in the nodding off stage of sleep I heard an terrible noise come from the back on the car. The tire had blown out and we were going over 50. Simbo did good and got us to the side of the road safely and we all got out. The tire had stripped and the inside had torn in an area. It looks like one of the smog pipes got damaged as well. It was scary because he could have ended up worst. The Lord was there protecting us that was for sure, even if the others in the car didn’t realize it. All the cars stopped and quickly worked on getting the spare on. They are full tires and each vehicle has 2. Some Masai Warriors stopped and inspected the vehicle as well. As they were fixing the tire a few people stopped to see if everything was ok and it was.
We then headed to Lake Manyara. Along the way we stopped and people came to the car and tried to sell us stuff. They wanted to then trade but they wanted my watch for other things. I cant part with that because I need it and it would have been worth 5 of those necklaces. We then left.
We got to Lake Manyara for the first Safari. The top of the vehicle goes up and we stood and saw the view around us. There was so much wildlife to see. The excitement just kept growing.
The first things I saw was gazelles and they had a young with them. It was clear they knew we were there and they just kept looking strait at the vehicle. We then moved on toward the hippo pool. At the Hippo pool was a whole bunch of hippos in the water. Some were out and about. At times there was grunts that came from them that is a type of communication. Also at the pool was stork all around the water. I just kept thinking of my Caitlin how she likes hippos and how she would have liked to see these creatures. Never in my life did I think I would see one in the wild. After that the driver heard that there was some tree lions out and about so we went off to find them.
Along the way I saw giraffes! They are so adorable! Also we found an elephant right on the road grazing. We got all excited and took lots of pictures as if it was the only one we would see. We then moved along and ran into about 2 herds of elephants or it might have all been one. There was male and females along with some baby elephants. Simbo said that the female was the leader of this group it seemed. So more of a matriarchal community. There was also zebras and giraffes with baby giraffes! On the soda lake was what looked like a band of pink. It was a band of flamingos! They were hard to get a good picture of but it was such a sight to see. I never would have thought to see this in my life. I can hardly believe that it is real.
In the end we never found the lions but another group did. Simbo was sad but it was ok and we headed out of the park towards camp.
Got to camp. Had beds in the tents! I thought I was going to be roughing it but I guess not. It doesn’t feel like I am camping. These two nights should be fun. We had dinner around 7pm and while we were eating we lost power. Lol go figure. So we pulled out flashlights but all the bugs swarmed the lights and the food as well. By that time I was mostly done with dinner so it didn’t matter too much. The bathrooms are new and we are the first to use them and they are still building some as well.
There is another American group that is here. They don’t have a professor and are in Tanzania and then Kenya. It would be cool to talk to them but I don’t know if there will be much time.

Feb. 24,2010
Breakfast at 7am because it was a full day of safari. At around 8am to vehicles for Ngorongoro Crater. We had to go up the outer edge of the crater and stopped to take pictures looking down into the crater.
Ngorongoro Crater from like 10am to about 4pm. We headed down from the more forest into a savannah. Right at the beginning we saw elephants. They were eating the bark off of the trees. One elephant practically broke the branch off one of the trees and it was a big branch. We then kept going and got to a part were it had stripped trees from elephant activity. No giraffes are in the crater due to there being no trees for them to eat. We saw a lot of zebra and wildebeests together. They are together because the zebra has good eyes so the wildebeest follow them. According to Simbo its because the wildebeest are dumb. The zebras were also with the Buffalo.
The buffalo are much different from the ones in the US. That’s because the ones in the US are Bison not buffalo. These are black and have horns that come from the top of the head like a shield. There was also ostriches in the crater. They are very cool up close. I felt like I was at the Wild animal park in San Diego.
We saw some warthogs running along and we yelled PUMBA! So after that Simbo called them pumpas for us every time we saw some. At the end we saw a pumpa family with a momma, papa, and babies. I saw a ton of birds along with some more hippos and baboons.
The best part was when I saw the lions. Saw just 2 and got excited and then saw a whole pride. After that when heading to the lunch area I saw more and the male with a full mane stood up for us and moved. It was so awesome to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. The other great thing was the Black Rhinos. We saw 2 with babies from far away and then 2 closer. We had to turn around and got stuck in the mud. So my group had to get out of the car. We were able to get out almost in front of the Rhinos! It was awesome and I got some good pictures. There was so much to see that the pictures speak better then I can.
I was just tired and my face windblown. We had an early dinner and then had class before heading off to bed.

Feb. 25, 2010
Breakfast at 7:30am, was very refreshed when stepping out of tent. Drizzled last night so Anh and I had to put the flaps down. We loaded up the vehicles and headed out for the last day of safari. We went to Tarangire. At the beginning all there was birds and then some giraffes. We saw the river and other features.
I saw ostriches and there was these flies that got into the vehicle and started biting me and some of the others. They even bit through the clothing. So I pulled out my bug spray and started spraying. We also saw some water buck and a lizard in a termite mound. We then head to lunch.
Lunch was interesting. The food was good and I had most of it done but for a little. Then a monkey was walking out side the fence. It got up and we were like oh its going to beg for food. Nope it jumped so fast and grabbed my lunch bag that only had trash and little bit of veggies left. The Monkey and me got in a tug a war over my lunch bag and that guy would not let go. He got it as Simbo came up to throw rocks at it. The guy barred its teach and tore a hole out of the bag and ran off with the veggies that I had left over. It was a bad monkey. Simbo that started telling us how it sees us coming with the lunches and thinks it is feeding time, a very bad monkey. The other were warned and another group watched it happened and were warned. The monkey went for their food and the lady and the monkey started swinging back and forth. She ended up hitting it with the lunch box and some food fell out. It left and then came back for the spilled food. I felt bad at first for throwing rocks but it should be eating and learning things like that. When we got back in the car Simbo asked how was the monkey and we said it was a very bad monkey.
For the rest of the safari was saw elephants far away and up close. When they were close my camera battery died. We saw some Rock myarax, which look like ferrets. Also we saw a water monitor lizard come out of the water! I was tired by the end again and fell asleep on the way back.
Headed back to Arusha. We got back and boy was I tired. I thanked Simbo and the group in the vehicle took a picture with him. If anyone wants to go on a safari go on the Aardvark Safaris and get Simbo.
I then showered and packed a little. Dinner at Pepes again but it is really good food and the price isn’t bad because we share everything. After that we got ice cream to treat ourselves. Now its time for bed because I am super tired. Those safaris wear me out. My pictures are better then my words.

Feb. 26, 2010
Card still not working with pin number. Finally got internet but it was so slow I couldn’t send anything. Caitlin was going to let me use her phone but it wasn’t working but she was able to send an email thank goodness. After that people offered to let me borrow but I hate borrowing money. Well might have to and just write a receipt for them. I got some teary eyed and that needs to stop now.
Breakfast and then class which was literature and biomes class. After that 2 girls are gone to Kenya and are coming back before we leave.
The rest of the group then headed to Arusha for lunch. We had buffet style food and it wasn’t too bad. We then headed to market. The atm wasn’t working for me still. People are worse here then India. They follow you everywhere! The one guy wouldn’t leave us around and we got surrounded at one point. No harm was done but its not comfortable to be in having all these people following you and trying to talk in order to get you to buy something. They just follow you non stop until you go into something.
I met back up with Denny and got some postcards and sent 2 and now have one more to send. I then walked back with Denny and Caitlin and was planning to work on homework. I came back and was able to do laundry and get some work done but not as much as I would like. My body is just exhausted and wants to sleep.
I got super slow internet that frustrated me. But after that we headed to an Ethiopian restaurant for dinner. It was chicken, lamb and other stuff. You took bread that was kinda sour and placed what you wanted inside it. It was no a silverware style meal but I used it once in awhile. It was really good. We then walked back and I worked on some stuff but not as much as I would have liked. I cant let myself get this far behind again.
Oh and my toenail is now fully gone. Lol it doesn’t feel like it but when I look it is. I hope it will grow back before I get to Germany but who knows.

Feb. 27, 2010
Today was mostly rest. I didn’t eat breakfast and slept in as much as I could. Got internet and the lady over charged me so no I owe one of the girls money. I was able to work on some stuff and then went for lunch.
I had udon at a Japanese restaurant. It was very good. After that I packed up and worked on my blog and prompt. The blog is roughly done but needs much more work. The prompt isn’t due yet but I have a basic outline done. I am really glade that I have the travel writing done.
Dinner was at Pepes again. There was thunder rumbling in and as soon as we sat down the rain just started to downpour. It wasn’t bad because we were covered but man it rained like crazy. I was able to get a beer and am able to hold them down better and am adjusting to the taste and becoming picky about them.
Walked back and have been working on things. Its still raining hard again.

Feb. 28, 2010
Thank you mom so much! And Caitlin as well for letting use the internet on her phone! The card is working now! YAY! Thank you Lord! I need to remember not to freak out and trust that the Lord will work it all out.
Now at the airport waiting for the flight to Egypt.

85 Fahrenheit with smoke in Mumbai, India

Feb.10, 2010
Woke and was very warm. There is no heating in the dorm area that we are in but I had a lot of covers on to keep me warm making it hard to want to get out of bed. I finally made myself get up and get dressed. I must admit it was good to wake up and feel rested and I like the cold surprisingly enough because I can bundle up and feel all snug and warm. Finally dressed and headed out the door for breakfast before talking with the students.
American Pancakes! I was so happy because I have been craving american breakfast food. The syrup is different and almost a sour taste but it was ok due to the pancakes being something I craved.
We then headed down the hill towards the school part. Such a cute little school on the mountains. I wish I could have gone here for High School. If I was in India I would send my children here. Unfortunatly most of the students I talked to were very quite and didn’t really want to talk it seemed to me. I remember those days, first day of class and I wouldn’t want to talk to strangers I would just want to be done with class and leave.
Me and my group then headed to the 5th grade class. They were very fun to give presentations to. My group was doing coral reefs. The kids had a lot of questions and like when we played a game with them. When the other group got up the kids were much more ready to interact and asked a lot of very good questions. I had to leave before it was done to talk to the next group of 11th graders. This group was much more talkative then the first but not very much still. The one boy ask me about how I felt about the Free Tibet movement since he is from there. I felt bad because I haven’t followed it at all and have not made a stands yet. Don’t kill me anyone I just don’t know the full story so I shouldn’t take a stands on something I know little about. So I answered that I havent been paying attention and really couldn’t answer that. He seemed to take it well and told me a little about how it is under China rule.
That class ended and the Hiram group headed out on a walk. I have not acclimated at all so going up the hills I could feel myself struggling for breath. I did very well again and hopefully I can have no problem with the hill from the dinning hall to Henry when I get back to Hiram. I was shown a beautiful giant old oak tree on the side of the mountain. It was just beautiful with its mossy branches hanging down over the mountain side and towering above it. We headed back down the mountain towards the school for lunch and there was a wonderful view. The air is so much more cleaner and I feel my sinuses clearing up here.
We had lunch in the cafeteria. It was really good and not curry. They had a delicious cob salad. There was also tea as well. Here they have tea with breakfast, 10 o’clock tea, lunch. 4 o’clock tea and then dinner. I like the fact that at those tea times everyone just stops what they are doing and have tea. I very much like the idea and wish Hiram had it along with the coffee shop as well.
After lunch was time to meet with the AP 12th grade bio class. This group of students talked a lot more and had more questions for us about Hiram and colleges in general I America. I think a few were really interested in Hiram and asked how late she could turn her application in. I told she could still turn it in because I was a late applicant as well. It would be cool if they came and I could talk with them more.
After that we were shown the new gym. It was awesome. They have a rock climbing area and Ping-Pong tables! A class was going on doing jump rope. After awhile they asked some of us if we wanted challenge and try it. A few did and weren’t bad. After that we headed for tea and then I was able to send postcards at the school post office.
I then headed slowly back up to the Hanafl(I think I spelled that right) center. I was able to get internet and finish some homework. Once again my blog group is not ready and are too tired and one is sick to work. Its frustrating me that everyone is on their final touches and posting and we aren’t even at final touches! Supposedly we will work on it as soon as we get to the Maldives. I was done with stuff so I headed back up to the room to pack up my stuff for the train ride back to New Delhi and then airport.
I had a shower which was so nice because I thought it would be cold but it was very hot that it was burning and had to try to make it colder but it was either really hot or cold. Lol oh well it still felt wonderful and I recommended it to the girls who were not going to take one for fear it would be cold, because it really warms you up. After that I got in bed to warm it up and finished observations that needed to be done.
Now for a few hours of sleep until having to get up. Oh well I survived.

Feb. 11. 2010
Woke up at 2am to get ready to go. Not fun but I made it up and out with all my stuff because I didn’t allow myself to be rushed. Waited out on the road for the taxis. Everything was very quite and the stars were shining so well I wish I could star gaze and knew my constellations.
Today was the train ride that was 6 hours to New Dehli.
When the group got to New we got on a bus and headed out to tour the city. The first stop was the Arch of India. It was a beautiful arch dedicated to soldiers of wars. It was weird being back in the city with people pressuring you to buy something. We then drove past Parliament and the Presidents place before going to the Indira Gandhi Memorial. It was her house that is now a memorial. It was setup beautifully and had news paper climbing everyone that gave a real sense of her life.
We then headed out for lunch at a curry restaurant. It was super good but it might have been because I was so hungry. There was also lots of sweets at the place so I was able to get some. Alot of the sweets taste like maple syrup or such. after that it was airport time with flights to Sri Lanka and then to Male.
So it was a super long day of traveling and sightseeing.
Feb 12, 2010
Arrived at like 2am and headed to hotel having been up for now 24 hours.
So got on the boat and was supposed to work on blog but didn’t happen go figure. So wasnt too happy with not being able to shower, missed breakfast and nothing seems to get done. At least I was reminded that I could get in the water and that made my mood go up.
Got on boat and 3 hour trip
Docked and went to the island, I’m staying on the boat
When we got to the island we had coconut milk from the coconut! We then had to head back due to getting a snorkel in. We headed out to snorkel as the sun set so we got to see the nocturnal fish starting to come out and the others go in making it very interesting. I love the reefs here. They are just full of live and a beautiful part of Gods creation.
I went back to the boat and took a quick shower before dinner. Dinner was amazing and so was lunch. I even tried the fish! After that I stargazed because it was so clear and so many could be seen.
It is really hot in the cabin but the fan cools it down a little bit. I think tomorrow I will take out the sleeping bag and sleep uptop.

Feb 13, 2010
They turned off the motor so all the cool air from the fan was gone making me sweat like crazy and not be able to sleep. So I went with sleeping bag and slept up top and was able to get more sleep. Then around 7am woke up and had a delicious breakfast. Around that time others from the island arrived and we had class before dives.
Diving was amazing! The first dive was to 26meter and the other was to about 24meters. There was a ton of fish along with coral, anemones, and I saw a shark on one of the dives. I really wish I could have more then just this week to dive. I wish I had a camera as well. I was diving with a shorty wetsuit and a steele tank allowing me to be able to not blow the safety stop like in Koh Tao. I could go home happy with just those 2 dives.
After that we headed back to the boat and proceeded to jump of the top of the boat. It was fun and scary at the same time. The water was so warm and clear. We got everyone in the water and was able to get a picture of us in the water. It was awesome but made me guilty at the same time that I was having a good time when I am on a school trip but that happens.
The weather got chilly and rain started to come! Not something I would expect thats for sure. It made the boat very rocky but it also cooled down the cabin.

Feb. 14, 2010
Woke up refreshed this time due to a storm came in and made it cool.
Did observations
People arrived and the space got cramped and crowded as well as loud with everyone on the boat.
Breakfast
2 hour trip to dive site
Dive it was awesome but I was adjusting me BCD alot causing me to run out of air! I had enough to fill the BCD but the dive master had me use his alternate. It was a deep dive and I adjusted the BCD deep, which wasnt smart but it happens. I was only using the alternate during the safety stop at 5meters and made it safetly to the top with no problem. Saw a white tip reef shark and a gray reef shark getting its mouth cleaned! I love seeing the sharks but have only seen these little ones. I want to see a Hammerhead but those are early morning almost night dives. Oh I did see a Octopus!
Lunch and after the I snorkeled. I saw a Turtle! It was a little guy but super amazing! The area is full of life. I got out and was not going to go back in but I did and saw more stuff before getting out for the next dive.
The last dive was against a strong current causing to use alot of air and we went deeper then the first dive at 85ft, we went to 109ft. This caused me to get a reverse block on the way up. It makes me mad because now I cant dive tomorrow. I was following the Master diver and he took us that deep . I should have not gone that far but I was doing what I was told and following him. I did see some sharks and other things at that deep. There was a moray eel out and about swimming right in-front of me and the divers with me.

Dinner
Moved to the Island
Talked to Caitlin until I fell asleep

Feb. 16, 2010
Got up and head to the boat
Had breakfast
Did observations
Got essay back
Had class
My ears are still blocked so I did not go diving
Went with Sigrid, David, Clay, Zippy in the diggy to the sandy Island making me feel like an explorer or shipwrecked person. I walked along the beach looking at the colors of the sea
Went in the water and swam trying to not get my ears wet due to still being blocked.
Went fishing and Clay caught something at the very end
Had lunch
Went to Island to clean up for meeting the school kids
Took my bag and found out that the situation was changed
Met with the school children. They had to come on their holiday to meet us. We split off into group. The group I was with was shy for one person. Talked and exchanged email and took pictures. Went on a walk. I was asked my name again and the girl was Shaufa. She was in 9th grade and has an older sister and lots of cousins and aunts and uncles who work nearby. I met her mother outside the school. talked and she wanted a picture with me. She said I was just 1 year younger then her sister so it felt like she was talking to her older sister. A lot of the kids bonded with the group and they wanted emails and pictures and addresses. It was nice to see them so interested in us. Some wanted us to stay on the island or have a longer time. Most of the girls had long sleeves and headscarfs bit a few didn’t and had their hair in a braid. The guys dress about the same. A lot of the teachers are from India and the female teachers were in saris and other India garb. We were pulled away from the kids and had coconut milk and talked to the teachers. I very much enjoyed talking to these people. A normal tourist would not even think to stop and talk to learn about the wonderful education these children have. All the kids are amazing and I wish we had more time with them. I hope to talk to Shaufa over email and maybe send her a card through the schools address.
Shopped and got some things for myself and others.
Went to the dock and saw people who were catching fish and cleaning them. Stingrays were in the water about 3 or 4 of them. Fish was thrown in and the ray went for it. It was cool but I was tired and wanted to go eat.
Got back to the boat and had dinner which was very good as always.
Headed back and saw the fluorescent plankton over the edge of the dingy.
Got a sunburn on the beach. That’s what I get for being cocky about it. My face is fine but not the upper body and some of the leg. Nail on big toe is dead but would not fall fully off so I cut it very short but worried it will get hit and hurt but it seems fine now. Sand was getting under the nail before I clipped it.

Feb. 16, 2010
Woke up early and headed to the boat. Had lunch and finished observations
Headed back to shore
Got to Mookai Hotel.
Went out for lunch
Walked around and got chocolate, chocolate milk, and coke.
Packed and used the internet
Dinner at a buffet which was pasta and ice cream. Yum yum!
Swim
Internet
Bed

Feb. 17, 2010
Woke up and had breakfast
Internet and packing up
Class
Packed up and had lunch
Walked around, Its like a concrete jungle with buildings everywhere.
Internet
Headed to Airport
Got gifts when going through security I got pulled asided and patted down. It was funny because I dont know why. I didnt peep at all and the only thing I could think of is my pants ar kinda baggy. It was weird being patted down and the most weird was getting my chest patted down lol, at least it was a woman doing it.
Plane to Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka to Mumbai
At the airport some got through and some didn’t. I was one of the ones that got stopped due to the stamp. The regulation was changed that if you leave india on a tourist visa you have to wait 2 months before reentry but that was changed when we were in Thailand! At least we all made it through.
Got to Max Chinai’s place.

Feb. 18, 2010
Around 4am finally got to Max Chinai’s house. At 8:30am I got up to have tea with Max and his son. The tea was a lot stronger then the others I have had in India. I was asked to introduce myself and say what my expectations were. To be true I really don’t have many. Not that I don’t expect anything just I want to try and not worry about getting things done. Live day by day as if the Lord is coming that day. Although it is really hard and I still am kicking myself for not having my Bible or remembering verses. I remember a few but never a reference. I have been having praise songs come into my head, Thank you AWANA!
I worked on a few things. I fixed Allen’s shirt. It was nice to but my skills to use. I then napped for here and there. I then wanted to go eat but didn’t want to go by myself so Anh was kind enough to come with me and we headed to subway that is super close to the house. How much have I been craving a sandwich that I even had turkey on it! I am so proud of myself for being adventurous this trip.
I finished hand washing my socks before working on different stuff. Then I headed to the area looking down on the beach. I was able to watch a beautiful Indian Sunset over the shore. It was interesting to see the beach full of people. Its as if the live revolves around the beach at sunrise and sunset. People were playing soccer, cricket and other games. Some were just walking along the shore and some sitting on and around rocks. Twice I saw people riding horses on the shore in the surf zone, not something seen in the U.S. that’s for sure. Some people were walking their dogs. One had a German Sheppard which is the first I have seen since getting out of the U.S. I hung out on the lawn for awhile and then Sigrid let us go to her room and make phone calls home.
It was really hard not to start crying over the phone as I called mom and dad for the first time since Hawaii. It was like 6am for them but they seemed happy that I called them. I was limited to 5 minutes and went about 6 minutes. I really wish I had more time and I wish I asked Mom to pray with me but I ran out of time. I think tomorrow I am going to ask if I can call and ask right away to have mom pray with me. After that I headed back to the room but people were inside drinking.
had a Bacardi Breezer, which is just a wine cooler. I liked the wine cooler better. I went with some of the girls for ladies night but the lounge was closed so we head next door to the hukka bar. I then went with the girls and a guy to get a the wine cooler and some subway. I went back to the hukka bar but was feeling uncomfortable so I said the smoke was getting to me, which was partly true, to get back to the room. I wanted to just sit and visit with David, Sigrid, Denny, Hamas, and Max but they had gone out and now I am in Jamjams so I wont go up. Maybe tomorrow I will visit and not go out with the group.
The guys have been hanging out in the room being loud. I am glade I got the spot I did because I could stay in the corner with my wine cooler and watching it as I did work and listen to music. Now I should head to bed because tea is at 7am and at 8am we head out to sight see around Bombay/Mumbai. Well off to bed and hopefully a wonderful day.

Sorry that this took so long to get updated!

India

Feb. 3, 2010
Train around 6:30am. Train was supposed to be at 6am but didn’t arrive on time. So around 5am everyone had to meet to head out in groups. At like 4:45am Me and the people sharing the room with me got up realizing we had slept through the alarm clocks. We were out and ready to go by 5 at least. Then the group that I was in headed out first to the train station. It was weird having people watch me as I was trying to get my bag through the streets to the train station. We were in chair cars. On the train I got tea and breakfast along the way.
At around 9ish I arrived with the group in Agra. A person had a sign for Hiram College and had auto rickshaws to take us to the Hotel Kamal. It was hard trying to get to the rickshaws because people are trying to pull you here and there. On top of it kids come rushing to you begging for food, money and water. I had a water bottle on my backpack and the kept touching it and asking for it. When I decided to give it to them since I had another one inside my bag, they practically grabbed it out of my hands before I could decided which one to give it to. Its hard when people beg because you see them rush to you because you are white. Its hard to know who to trust because some people do just want to practice their English and talk but other people are just trying to rip you off of your money. Here its hard for them to understand that we are students and don’t have lots of money to spare, because in their minds we are Americans so we have more money then them.
Along the way on the train I noticed that next to the tracks was mounds of trash and people just letting go were ever near the mounds. It is hard to deal with when you see it first. Its sad because there is no way for them do get ride of the trash like we do in America.
Around 10am we arrived at the Hotel Kamal. We got our rooms. I shared with Brenna and Liz. Lunch wasn’t till 11:30am so I took a nap after looking around the place. From the rooftop restaurant is a clear view of the Taj Mahal. We decided to do a morning, sunrise, tour of the Taj Mahal. Its hard to believe that I am really here and get to see the Taj Mahal, which I have only dreamed of seeing.
Another thing is monkeys are everywhere. They are on the rooftops and trees all about the city. Its kinda cool.
After lunch the group headed out to see different sites of Agra. The first was the Agra Fort. There are a lot of palaces inside, I cant remember how many David said. It was beautiful in its read color and the walls were amazing in size. I could close my eyes and kinda see what it was like when the fort was built and used. Inside on one of the walls was a good view of the Taj Mahal and the river as well as the hustle and bustle of the city. It was cool to be in a place that was made for smaller people. The archways in some areas were small and doors were only a little bit taller then me. It was then time to head back and a lot of places in the fort are off limits due to work on the site and some of the military still stay in the barrack area. I met up with the rest of the group and we headed out to get a group photo. There was a monkey really close that let us come up to it and take a picture. After that we headed back to the rickshaws.
They dropped us off at a shop. I was weary about going in but I was able to get a pajari/Indian outfit for about 40 US dollars. I got them to put the sleeves on them. It is white with salmon embroidery along with salmon colored pants. The scarf is pink and white. I plan to wear it because its comfy. If I had more money I might have bought a blue one but it was more expensive then the one I got and plainer. Finally everyone finished shopping and we headed to the next sight to see.
We went through the crowded streets and this bridge that was super small and could see underneath it due to the wear and tear of the bridge. We stopped at the Mini Taj Mahal. It is were Mahal was kept until the Taj Mahal was finished. I didn’t go in because we don’t have enough money to see it and we were going to the Taj Mahal tomorrow. When you get out of the rickshaws at a monument people crowd you trying to get you to buy what they are selling like postcards, information and little trinkets. I just had to learn to ignore it, because they will try to put something in your hand and wont let you give it back until you buy it. It happened to Nate but finally the guy took it back when the rickshaw driver started going.
We were then taken to the back of the Taj Mahal to watch the sunset on the Taj Mahal. Kids asking for chocolate so we gave candy. They threw the wrappers on the ground and Nicky and Kanako told them to pick it up when the boy shrugged his shoulders that it didn’t matter. He did eventually pick it up and put it in his pocket after Nicky and Kanako kept telling him to. Then they wanted money after we took their picture and kept asking for more candy. By the end I was tired and hungry. Going through the streets is hard because there is lots of fumes, honking and noises of vehicals along with when you get out people are trying to beg for money or get you to buy something. Its different then Bangkok, where they try to get you to buy something but they are not in your face about it and bargain a lot easier. Here I havent been able to find just a grocery store or drug store like in Thailand. Its very different. I like it but its different and hard to adjust to.
Finally got back to the hotel and went across the street to get food. It took forever but it was good. It was curry chicken, rice and parantha. The way they do curry chicken is different. They put the legs and thighs whole in so you have to try to get around the bone. I think I will just fine as a vegetarian here in India because the vegetarian food is really good.
After eating I showed off my dress to people and then headed to bed.

Feb. 4, 2010
Up around 6ish to see Taj Mahal. Me and the girls got up a little late so people came to get us. It really didn’t matter because when we got there it wasn’t even open yet. It was weird because they separated the men and the women to go through security. We had to walk though a metal detector and then were patted down along with our bags searched. No kind of electronics is allowed inside the area.
The Taj Mahal was just wonderful to see. The way the sun hit the white stone made it have a yellow/pink tint to it. I got lots pictures of the outside. Inside no pictures were allowed. Mahals coffin is neatly set in the center and had what would have been a lantern, now with electric light over it. Shoved to the side his her husbands, which is larger and looks the same but it is out of place. He should have had his own but his son just shoved it in. It lays over some the floor designs surrounding Mahals coffin and looks like it had to be lifted on one side so it would lay strait. It was beautiful but sad that it didn’t go with the structure of the place. Afterwards I walked around the outside of the tomb until I got out of the main area to the outside air. The sun had mostly come up and the one side was yellow and gold as the sun hit it. The designs carved into the stone or layed into the stones had such craftsmanship, it was beautiful.
After seeing the Taj Mahal I headed back to the hotel to have breakfast and to check out. It was chilly earlier so it was nice to sit in the sun and get a view of the Taj Mahal again. As we checked out they put us into SUV’s to take us to the next place, which was a 2 hour drive or more. Right as we were about to leave Denny showed up. So now we all were together and heading out.
The drive was crazy getting through the streets. At certain areas kids banged on the windows begging for food and money. Its kinda like a discrimination being white because people come and give you this mindset that you are white so you have money to give. In some areas I noticed that people was race and run across streets to try to beg from us. Then if you of the guys gave them something they tried to get more.
After almost getting lost we arrived at the hotel Falcon. We had lunch before heading out to the bird sanctuary. At the bird sanctuary we got bikes and biked to see the different birds and animals. We had a Indian guide with us on the bikes to show us a lot of things. They knew a lot about the animals and birds here. We saw different birds like kites, owls, eagles, rollers, woodpeckers and more. Also I saw a golden jackal, cows, white spotted deer, antelope and monkeys(rhesus micacks).
It was all fun until I got a flat tire and the road was bumpy and narrow. I was getting frustrated and then my big toe hit a rock while I was peddling. It hurt and I had broken the nail more and some of the blood pooling had come out. It felt as if I had broken it and I was in so much pain that the tears came. I tried not to cry but it hurt so bad, I was tired and upset that I hurt it and was afraid it was broken. Finally Anh and Caitlin got me calmed down and Tim got the guide to come back. I rode on the back of his bike and got up with the group. They helped me bandage it up and get my sock back on. I rode behind on the bike until I felt better and started riding my own bike again. The rest of the ride was fun and there was a lot to see. We headed back and I enjoyed riding really fast to the end. After that I walked back to the hotel.
We had dinner at the hotel and relaxed before heading to bed. I also bandaged up my toe a lot better.

Feb. 6, 2010
Happy Birthday to me!
Yesterday was long but fun but tiring at the same time as always. We got on the train and headed to Jaipur. We arrived around lunch time and went to the Hotel Pearl Palace. it’s a nice place and on the roof was a restaurant that was very good.
After eating us students headed out to go to the theater to see a Bollywood film. We got lost at first but we made it and saw the movie the 3 idiots. It was good but I wish I could understand it more due to no subtitles. At a theater here its one movie and that’s all that is shown. Even if it is a short movie it has an intermission. It was a fun experience. I wore my outfit and the lady at the door gave me the thumbs up and the guy told me she said I looked good and very Indian.
After the movie we headed back to meet up with everyone to head to dinner. That was an adventure in itself. We were running late so we headed out to get taxis. We finally got a bus to take us. It was a bus ride that got us lost even more and took over an hour to the place to eat. Our reservation was at 7:30, we would have only been a half hour late but ended up getting there at 9pm. It was scary not knowing were I was but it worked out in the end. When we got to the place they let us eat and boy let me tell you, food, beer and tea has never been so good in my life. By time we finished it was almost 11pm.
The hotel where we ate got auto rickshaws to take us back. I was able to shower and go to bed.
Today
Big yummy breakfast of omelets, toast and tea for my birthday. It was nice having a big breakfast. When people came up they wished me happy birthday. Not at all how I imagined my 21st birthday but it was still good.
I then packed up. Found out I left my jacket at the other hotel, I also cant find my stash of Kleenex. After getting all my stuff together I paid for an hour of internet and was able to do an blog update and get some stuff done.
We then took the auto rickshaws to the Palace of the wind. It was a palace made so that women of the palace could come somewhere and see the outside. It was nice to see but sadly people write their names on the wall so it looks very run down and graffiti everywhere. Just for Paula I did the wall tango Prince of Persia style.
After that we walked to the city palace. Some of the royal family still live there. It was amazing to see. It reminded me of the palace in the live action Jungle Book. A few museums were open and one was the public meeting room with carpets and paintings everywhere. Time was short so we had to go to the observatory. On the way there Denny got us all ice cream, which tasted so good!
We then went to the observatory. It was awesome to see all those instruments used to measuring the sun and consolations. We had a guide telling us about all the instruments. He was telling us about which zodiac was if you were born that day and I was laughing in the inside because it was my birthday and he didn’t know.
We then headed back to the hotel to get ready to head. We had to walk a long way to go. We got back and got into taxis and rickshaws to get to the train station. We got on and arrived in Alwar. A group of us had to wait for Denny to get a bus or taxi for us.
While we were waiting a crowd formed talking to Nate and some of the other guys. It was scary at first having this crowd around. I calmed down a little when I realized we were most likely the largest crowd of white people that had come there so they were curious. Most of the people just wanted to practice their English.
The bus came and we headed to Sariska Tiger Reservation to the Hotel Tiger Den. While on the way there we went past a wedding procession. It was lots of light and people. They invited us to come join the celebration but we needed to get to the hotel. It would be fun to go to a Indian wedding. It looked like a lot of fun.
We finally arrived at the hotel and were able eat dinner. I then worked on postcards and then went to bed.

Feb. 7, 2010
Woke up and had breakfast. After breakfast I did some laundry since we have all day and most of tomorrow here.
At 10am we all met for class. I guess the owner of the hotel heard about the issue with the drivers yesterday and has been very helpful. He gave us the conference room to use for classes and meetings. Also he set up the safari for tomorrow as well the buses back to the train station. After that he arranged for the taxis between train stations as well. Its nice to know that someone cares about us and wants good reviews, I would defiantly recommend this place. Denny gave us most of the day free to relax and catch up on journals and other writing needed. I was able to get laundry done, some observations, and my part of the blog done. We were then let go to do whatever we wanted until lunch.
There is a swing set, slide and teater totters outside the room. So I joined Brenna, Nicky, Nate and Jake on the swings. It was fun to be free and have time to play. After that I came inside and washed my jeans which are almost dry. The climate is warm and dry. It was getting really hot so things in the sun dried fast.
At lunch Denny told us that we were going to go on a walk, it was optional but everyone still came on it. We had to have a guide due to there being 3 tigers in the reserves. They were introduced from the other reserve and 2 more come in a few more months. So after lunch I sunned a little and wrote postcards before getting ready to go on the walk. It is really hot, like shorts and tank top weather, that is why I sunned a little.
The walk kinda sucked because we were on the main road most of the time. The guide wanted us to keep taking photos and kept interrupting when Denny was trying to tell us about something. On the good side saw lots of monkeys, black faced with long tails monkeys, birds, and antelope. We headed back because it was getting late and we needed to have class.
Dinner was good and after that there was a bonfire outside, made by the hotel. It was really nice to be outside with a bonfire, almost like home. It is weird coming from the cities to this area, which is calm and quite. I almost don’t want to go back to the cities. The fire was getting low so a lot of people left. Ok well its off to bed I think.

Feb. 8,2010
I slept very well last night. I was able to wake up around 6:30am and breathe though my nose. I think these allergies will be over soon.
At 7 headed to breakfast. Well there wasn’t breakfast but tea for me and the group before we headed out to the safari. Unfortunately the same incompetent guide from yesterday had got himself to come so we had to deal with him.
The safari was lots of fun. I saw white spotted deer, Antelope, wild boar, jackal, birds, peacocks and 2 jungle cats. It was cool seeing the second jungle cat because a peacock was giving a warning call and then all of a sudden I saw the jungle cat pouncing around in the tall grass.
Around 10am we got back to the hotel and had breakfast. I took a shower and then finished some work and packed up to head out. We had lunch and then some class and the arraignments for the day. At 4pm a bus came and we had a 1 hour drive to the train station.
When we got to the train station we had to stand for 2 hours before the train came. While waiting Becky and I braided each others hair. A crowd formed around some of the group so that the station master opened the VIP room and gently told us to go in. It was more like we had to go in because they didn’t want us to have a crowd. It is weird having people stare at you but I’m getting used to it.
Finally the train arrived and I wasn’t feeling well due to my allergies. It was 3 hours on the train and we were fed. I was very happy when they brought us ice cream! After that ride we got off in New Delhi in the pouring rain. Yes in the dry season it is just thunder and lighting with a downpour of rain.
From New Delhi we had to caught a cab to the other station. We made it in time for the sleeper train. It was a 6 hour train ride.
I fell asleep almost right away but kept waking up thinking I had to get off or everyone got off and left me. Also the people across from me snored very very loud.

Feb. 9, 2010
Just arrived at the Woodstock school up in the mountains. Its cold and wet with some snow on the ground. Today was mostly just getting caught up on things the requiered internet, suhc as this blog. School work was done as well. We were supposed to go on a 6 hour hike but the fog mixed with rain and snow along with thunder and lightning just werent good. So I got alot done but that was mostly it that happened today.

Feb. 10, 2010
i realized I put Jan. on some date in the last update I think. anyways if I mess up on the month sorry it hard to keep track.
Today the group went to the school and met with some of the biology classes of high school age. we had discussions with them about climate change and most of the time it turned into us answering questions about the trip or were we were from. We met with two 11th grade classes and then one AP 12th grade class.
We gave presentations to the 5th grade class about biomes. My group gave information about the coral reefs. Those kids seemed to have a lot more questions and more willing to aks them. It was fun teaching them. I wish we had more time to talk with the younger kids.
Before we had tea we were showed around the new gym they have. A 7th grade class was jump ropping. They invited some of our group to try it. After that we had tea and I was able to send some postcards and then now back using the internet.
I miss everyone at home but I am having a good time. sorry that the last few post have been so late.

Thailand and India(a long needed post)

Jan. 23, 2010 (lost one two whole days traveling and crossing datelines)
At this moment sitting in my hotel room at the New Empire Hotel I can hear the sounds of mopeds, cars honking horns, buses moving people here and there and the tuk tuks trying to find customers or moving along the busy streets of Bangkok, Thailand in Chinatown.
I had my first breakfast overseas. It was rice soup with chicken, just delicious. After that we had a gathering before going out. We were going to see two different temples. To get there we took a river taxi. It was fun going in the boat and I didn’t get motion sick. The river taxi is faster then all the street traffic. The first one had the giant reclining Buddha. It was a giant Bronze Buddha in a reclining position. Unlike the ones seen in the US he is rather skinny. What I thought was pretty was the mother of pearl designs on the feet. I paid 20 baht and dropped coins in the jars. The place was nice but in the back of my mind I knew it was an idol and I felt sad that others would worship it. I explored a little more. When I think of the temples I think of gold. There was gold but a lot color and glass mixed. They were built in the 1800rds so newer then most temples. I went with Ahne into the main area with the buddhas. I couldn’t tell if it really was gold or was a metal that looked like gold. It was nice but I was getting hungry.
For food I went to some street stalls with Clay and Brenna. I had rice with pork over it with a sauce that was sweet and sour. In the soda was in tall bottles and have real sugar in them! I need to be careful to not drink too much soda. After eating we met up with the rest of the group to see the second temple/wat. It had lots of porcelain on it due to the Chinese coming down the river and a ship getting stuck so the porcelain was used. It isn’t very old, maybe as old as Hiram. It was scary going up the steep steps to get up onto the wat. Even though it was scary getting up the steps the view was really beautiful. A group walked around and bargained for a few stuff. I think I am spending too much. I got 4 chopsticks for people as gifts. I had a lot of snack food since everything was so cheap in my perspective. After that Denny arranged a tour of the canals for us on a small barge.
First stop was the barge museum. I am disappointed a didn’t get to bring in my camera due to a fee. It was all the royal barges still used as well as the one that got bombed in WWII. It was cool seeing how instead of gilded carriages and chariots they have barges. It shows how much the river is relayed upon. After that we headed out to go and see the canals.
Going through the canals- rivers are so are cities. This is a prime example. In Bangkok it shows that the river is a very important part of how they live. There are river taxis that take you to and from different places, mostly temple sites are the unloading areas. All around these ports are shops and street stalls with people trying to sell their goods. There was even and intersection type thing along with a general store only available by boat. Some houses had no street access and went to and from on boat. Some Children were jumping from a bridge and others from pipes. The boat tried to stop and people tried to sell us a show that we didn’t want. Finally they let us go and we headed out again.
When we were at a temple we saw a lot of hug fish swarming due to children at the temple throwing bread into the water. A few minutes after that the engine on the boat died. So just like jump starting a car another boat helped jumpstart the boat I was in. It was interesting and I wish I had gotten a photo of it. After that everyone went off on there own. I ended up going through the market place with the group and then that group got split up. So Nicole, Jacob, Vince and I went to eat. We couldn’t deside so we chose a place and I had noodles with chicken. I tried to stay up and due homework but it didn’t work. We had class as well and Anh and I were late. Lol
P.S. crossing 2 time zones and a 9 hour flight followed by a miserable 7 hour flight does not make a happy Michelle. Nothing happened but I came close to telling off Caitlin.

Jan. 25, 2010
Yesterday was half free and half travel.
Morning Breakfast was a really small omelet. I went with Anh and met up with Allen and other guys. We decided to go out for lunch around 11:30am so we would be back on time to check out. I didn’t really get lunch I more had these pastry balls that tasted like a doughnut. Anh got some fruit that she shared. My watch is ahead so we went back early to do a double check of the room, since we backed earlier. Good thing too because the maids were ready to clean the room. We headed out and it was pouring rain. I had the raincoat on but I was sweating inside due to the humidity. Our group was a sight to see moving along in a single file with bags and all in rain gear. I noticed a few people were looking at us. We got to the train station and like most train stations they all look mostly the same.
Kanako had lost her camera so she wanted to go to the MBK center to get one. I needed a sleeping bag so I went along and Mike came too. We were going to take a taxi but instead took a tuk tuk. It was really weird to ride it and scary. The driver stopped somewhere to con us into buying something so he could get free gas. We didn’t go for it and it felt like he didn’t drive as nice. I asked about a sleeping bag but they told me not anymore. The center reminds me a lot like other Asian malls I have seen in the dramas. Kanako got her camera and we got a taxi for the ride back because at MBK they have taxis line up and mall people tell them were to take the person. It was nice.
We got back right as the group was heading to the temple with the golden Buddha. It was good because we didn’t think we would be back in time to go see it. Once again we were a sight all of us with our overstuffed backpacks, since we consolidated bags, walking down the road to the temple. The temple was marble with gold leafing on it. Sad that it was beautiful yet the people who built it and worship the golden Buddha are turning from God. It was the first time that I have gone through a museum with no shoes. It was fun. The first was a exhibit about the growth of Chinatown. The second exhibit was about how the golden Buddha was found and moved to the place it is at. Finally I saw the golden Buddha. It was very gold. I liked the architect more then the Buddha. The marble was just beautiful. Also we had to take off our shoes. it’s the first time I can say that I went to a museum with out my shoes. After that I headed back to the train station for more waiting. It wasn’t too bad. I gained insight on public travel. It was weird but I enjoyed it and would do it again. When the train arrived we got on and had sleepers.
A sleeper wasn’t bad. I fell asleep and slept very well. It was weird at first but when my head hit the pillow I was out. I think after this I could sleep mostly anywhere. After the train was bus to the boat to take us to Koh Tao. It was only an hour and a half. For a catamaran it was very rocky.
When in Koh Tao we got in these trucks that had the beds with benches on them. I was scared I was going to fall out! I made it safe and sound at the hotel. We had lunch due to not being able to check in yet. The food took forever to get. In Koh Tao there is no sense of fast pace. It makes sense since most people are being lazy so they don’t care how fast they get the food. After lunch I went with Clay and Brenna. I had a legal drink, which was Pina colada. It was good. We then checked into the bungalows. They have a huge bed and one small one in the room. Out in the living room was 2 more for the guys. I am rooming with Anh, Zippy, Vincent and Jacob. After getting settled I went with Anh and Becky to get a skirt, since I have like the idea. I got a black one that goes to my knees. I then went to find were Allen and Swaffy were. I found them at the water and then they went to get drinks so I watched the stuff and played in the water for a little bit. The water was very warm. There was very little wave due to the shore being protected by the reef surrounding the area. When everyone got back Becky and I went to get smoothies. I had a delicious pineapple smoothie with real pineapple in it. I should be careful about the food but I am doing ok.
I went in the water and it became a dunking match between the guys and the girls. Vince got me but I put up a fight. I will never go down without a fight that’s for sure.
After that we had a meeting about the diving tomorrow. I am excited because I get to go deeper. I wont be diving with anyone I know but it will be on the same boat. After that we still had free time so we went back to playing in the water. A group went and played volleyball and got challenged by some other people but no one took the challenge. This area is very much a European tourist area and well as a place were girls can go topless on the beach. That was and adventure when I saw that and was like wow I did not need to see that! in the water I just sat in the water. There are barely anyway waves so me and the other girls just sat in the water. A few dunking of people happened but not much.
After that we headed to dinner, which was Pad Thai. The soda is in glass bottles and has real sugar so it tastes delicious. Here is takes a long time to get food served here. It must be do to most of the people here are on vacation and are not in a hurry, plus the more one stays the more they drink, or so I think. When heading back there was a cart that was making pancakes. The pancakes here are very much like crepes and are filled with fruits and such. Some of the group got bananas and nutella. I got mine filled with coconut and chocolate on the top, yum yum.
Then I hung out before class. There are hug geckos outside the room. There are about 2 big one and one little one. I am told they come out every night to eat all the bugs. It looks like an older Bubbles.
It was then class and then a SCUBA Club meeting to write a letter so that the club can get money to do club diving activities in the Maldives. I am very tired and going to bed early.

Jan. 26, 2010
Breakfast was a pancake with bananas and Pineapple. The pancakes are a lot like crepes. I went back to the room but when I got there I realized that I didn’t have the key. So locked out of the room, so I took time to talk to God. It was good to have time alone and just pray to Him. I need to find time to talk to Him not just when it is convenient for me. After that I got all my stuff together and headed to lunch. Lunch was fried rice with chicken. It came in just enough time to eat and head out to dive.
The dive boats cannot come inshore because of the reef. So we took a smaller boat out to the dive boat. When we got to the big boat we were given weights and tanks. I had a big tank and had no idea what weight to use due to being in the metric system. I was put in a group of advance divers due to my rescue certification. I was with a dive master along 2 other guys. We were going to do 2 dives.
The first stop was Chumpon Pinnacle. The purpose of the dive was mostly to see sharks. I was hoping to see a whale shark but the dive master said he had never seen one since he had been in Koh Tao. I got weights on a weight belt which was strange to me since I have never used one. I didn’t have a computer either, only the dive master had one. The depth and air gage was all in the metric system so I had to figure it out. The water was ruff and I had a hard time getting down due to most likely not having enough weights. I got down and it was not very good visibility. The good thing was I saw lots of sharks. 2 in the sand right away. Then 3 were swimming a little above us and then I had one swim right over my head. I was worried about that one because I didn’t have enough weights and kept going up. I saw 2 more before heading to the safety stop. Due to not having enough weight and having the tank become a buoy I shot past the safety stop. Oops! I was told it was ok since we were only doing 2 dives but I had a headache from missing my safety stop from going down 30 meters. I was fine by time the second dive started. The second dive had a current but not surface waves and was clear. There was a lot of life. I did some swim throughs. There was nudebranchs and Christmas trees on the reef. Also some clams were on the edges. Just so much life was in the water. This time I had enough weights and did just fine staying down and doing my safety stop. I finished the dive and headed back to shore. I cant compare it to the Bahamas yet because I only did 2 dives but I wouldn’t mind to go back again and do more dives.
After diving I changed and headed to dinner. I had a shark attack before eating and then after eating had a Mai Tai. I was kinda tipsy by then. After that lets just say I was getting drunk.
Jan 27, 2010
I must have slept really good due to learning that Jacob had gotten really drunk and was loud. Zippy said that I didn’t even move once when I slept. I woke up and took a shower since I was so drunk last night and couldn’t stand strait. The I wasn’t hung over but later in the day I felt some of the decompression sickness. After that I cleaned and packed up to check out of the hotel at 11am but we were not leaving until 2pm. After packing and cleaning I rested for awhile. When Anh and Jacob got back they almost fell asleep as well. We had way too much fun last night and were tired and knew a long day was ahead of us.
I then had lunch, which was a club sandwich. I was finally able to get internet and was able to check my email as well as talk to Dad. After that I headed out to send out postcards. We then had trucks take us to the boat to get us out of Koh Tao. The trucks are pickup trucks with benches in the bed for people to sit. I was scared I was going to fall out with the way the Thai drive very fast and crazy.
We got to the train station and had to wait for 3 hours until the train came late. So I went to get dinner. I had a shower at the restaurant. I never thought I would jump into a cold shower in a bathroom. I wasn’t going to do it but now I am glad. It was so refreshing to get the stickiness off me. The bug bites don’t hurt as much but still need to put stuff on them. I am getting into this with this shower. How many times can I say that I got naked in a bathroom to take a shower from a shower head in the middle of a public bathroom. Anyways dinner was good.
The train finally came but it was late so we didn’t get on until midnight. All of us are tired and are getting grouchy.

Jan. 28, 2010
I wish we had more time to sleep on the train even though it wasn’t as nice as the first one. We arrived and I wish I could have slept more. Since it was early we had to wait at the train station from 4 to 9. I learned how to sleep very well sitting up with my face in the backpack. After this I could be able to sleep anywhere. Around 7 a bus was arraigned to take the group to the Keow Cave and then the place were we would caught the boats to take to the place we were going to be camping.
The cave hike was a lot of fun. Most of the group had headlights so our hands could be free. There were some spots were I had to almost crawl to get through and other times were there was so little of a walkway between me and a drop into darkness. It was very fun and I would like to be able to do it again. After getting back to the bus we got dropped off at a little village that would have boats to take us to the national park for camping.
The boast are small water taxis. It was a sandy shore area with trees. In the mountain area is a cave that a temple was built in. I heard was fun to go see. By the time we were at the campsite I know my temper was short and I think others were too. We ate lunch and then I got in my swimsuit and hand washed some clothes so they would be clean and dry tomorrow.
I played in the water for a little bit and then walked along the beach to have some alone time. It was good I did because I saw sand crabs and hermit crabs everywhere. It was nice to be alone for awhile and collect my thoughts and such. After that I had dinner, class and then went to bed early to get up early to try and go up to the cave.

Jan. 29, 2010
Got up early to hike up to cave. The cave was cool. The roof had fallen it and a temple had been put in it. The ground in the cave was fine and was eroded material. Once again such a beautiful act of nature by God had been used for buddism. I sat down and was able to pray to God knowing that the reason the cave was there was because he made it most likely in the flood or at another time. Nothing happens in nature at random, it is all when God wants and wills it to be. I have to keep reminding myself that as I see His creation all around me.
After being in the cave for awhile I headed back down. On the way down I caught glimpses of monkeys. At one lookout spot there was about 5 monkeys in one area. It was very cool to see monkeys in the wild. Never in my life did I think I would see them in real life other then a zoo.
Finally got back to camp and had pancakes and then packed up to head out again, I got into boats and then vans. During the drive I fell asleep almost the whole time. We finally got to the place. It is one big room with 3 bathrooms. The beds are in a row with no set separators. Everyone has a pillow and a blanket. As soon as we got there we had lunch. The place made it for us. They were taking pictures. It must be because we are one of the largest groups of Americans they most likely have gotten. They were all very nice.
We then had class by the river. It was nice but once again the bugs kept attacking me the whole time. After class I swam in the river for a little bit. It was quite clean and there was current. After that I relaxed and had dinner around 6ish. The rest of the night was relaxing and starting some of my paper and went to bed early due to having to get up early the next day.
PS. I hate bugs!

Jan. 30, 2010
Woke up at 4am which I did not like. But that was because we had to be up and going by 4:30am. We were loaded up in the beds of pickup trucks with benches on them. It was then a cold 2 hour drive up the mountain to go hiking.
We got there and had breakfast. Almost everything here has rice. The place we were at was very beautiful tropical wet forest. Around 7:45ish we head out on the hike. We had a guide from the national park service.
I did a lot better this hike. At the beginning it was mostly flat and downhill. The sounds seemed out of the Jungle Book. It was cool and not to humid as the sun was waking up and sunlight filtered into different parts between trees. Monkeys and the ones that look like monkeys but don’t have a tail (I cant remember there names right now) were filling the air with their noises. At one time I saw a monkey swing away from us. As there was some elephant dung on the ground but I never saw an elephant. We hiked down to a beautiful waterfall. When we got close but couldn’t see it I could here it and it was a beautiful and powerful sound.
We got near a stream and had to walk across the bed for a bit. My hiking boots were soaked through but I didn’t mind. Only one of the guys got leaches on his pants and shoes. When we got to the bottom of the water fall a few of the guys and girls stripped to underwear and jumped into the water. After that we head up to other parts of the falls and to head back. On the way up near the water was a giant frog. I got a picture and then my camera battery died because I forgot to charge it.
It was now all uphill. I am good with downhill, strait and gradual uphill but none of the steep stuff. I did better then Haleakala but I was once again one of the last ones but not as far behind this time. It was less monkeys and more birds and bug sounds coming from the forest. It was also much more humid and hotter. I made it to the end around 2pm
We then had to wait until 4pm because until then the mountain road was only one way and that was up. The ride back down was nice, but dirty. It was nice to see everything that was missed do to it being dark in the morning. I had dinner and later I had ice cream and finished my paper and relaxed.
The Thai group across from us have been doing karaoke all night and last night as well and sorry to say but some sing very bad.
Jan. 31, 2010
Woke up around 8ish due to Denny telling us that breakfast was ready. It was a type of soup. I had instant coffee that was ok but I wanted coffee so bad that I had it. After that I packed up to head back to Bangkok.
The vans were to come between 10 and 11 so I was able to get on the internet and talk to Tom. Then the people of where I was staying wanted to take a picture of all of us so I had to say goodbye fast. We took the picture and then had to wait due to the vans being late.
I couldn’t wait to get to a clean shower. I have so many bug bites and I think I have hives due to something I hit on the hike.
The Vans finally arrived and with the bags from the train station. It was a 3 hour drive back to Bangkok. It would have been fine but the driver kept stopping and then we got lost. Anh cannot sit still long because for the last hour she was hyper and saying random stuff.
We finally got to the hotel and were able to check in. I was hungry but didn’t want to eat too much and not get dinner, but I hadn’t had lunch yet and it was after 3. I went with Becky, Brenna and Nate to get food. I ended up splitting a Pad Thai with Nate. It was a good thing too because it was a large portion. I then headed back to the Hotel to pack up and get a shower.
Anh got all of her stuff out of my bag and mines out of hers. I was able to hang up some of my damp clothing to dry. The pants I have dry really fast, I am glad that I got them. I had to fully repack my bag, but it was ok. I got half way and then took a shower.
All I can say is when you haven’t had a good shower in a long time its really nice. The water was cold cause I couldn’t figure out how to make it hot. But in the end I didn’t mind and the water felt nice on all the bites and hives and it was so nice to have clean hair!
After that I headed out with Clay, Brenna, Nate, and Becky to the 7 eleven, which are everywhere. I got some really good white tea along with green tea. When I got back to the room I turned on the tv and Law & Order was on, so I watched that and then finished backing. I was able to get internet and let Zippy use it until I wanted it back. I was able to write email. Around 9ish I got a call from David and Sigrid that they had arrived and would see everyone in the morning. I went to bed around midnight.

Feb. 1, 2010
Currently on the plane to India. This morning I woke up and it was very nice to wake up clean and on a nice bed. I went and had breakfast with Nate. Breakfast was eggs, ham and toast. It was small so Nate and I went to 7 eleven to get snacks. We met Brenna, who needed to make copies, so we went along to help her find a place. We walked so many places to find it. At the English language school they kinda helped helped us. We ended up at the post office and the lady drew us and map and we found the place finally.
The weather is hot and humid making it nice to get back to the hotel room that had air conditioner. I then talked to Tom until he went to bed and then let Nate borrow the computer, since his got a virus. Around 12:45 I met up with everyone in the lobby and head to the airport. Then it was hurry up and wait. We waited about an hour before heading to get food. I saw a place that had american food and got very happy. Unfortunately it was over priced and not very good. Oh well, at least I got rid of all the baht I had. After that I met with the group. I think the benedryl was kicking in and I was tied of waiting cause I wasn’t very happy.
Finally we could check in. That took forever and then after that we had to go through passport control. That took a long time and then had to walk all the way to the gate. When I got to the gate they went through my bags and then used the wand to screen me. It was a lot of security that was for sure. Finally I got on the plane.

Feb. 2, 2010
I am now in India. It very different and I am getting very homesick. The place I am staying is in New Dehli, the Hotel Ajanta. The place isn’t too bad. The room I am in is on the ground floor right next to the lobby. Unfortunately that means I can hear everything outside with people near the window and anything in the lobby. Oh well it is only for 2 nights.
At this point I think everyone is getting short tempered with everyone. I think it will be better when Denny finally gets back with the group.
So today I woke up around 9am because we had to meet around 10 in the lobby. Funny thing was no one told David and Sigrid about meeting. While we were waiting one of the ladies from the Hotel came and told us safety if we were going out. First was to be aware of our surroundings and people we want to help and tell us that we cant go somewhere is because they want to have you go somewhere. Even after that talk some people in my group got suckered into it and me too. She also told us that people would try to follow us to get us to go somewhere. She was very helpful because its true when I went out that people are trying to get you to go here and there and get you to buy things.
So I headed out with Allen, John, Vince, Nate, Jacob, Becky, Nicky, Kanako and Anh. We went to a rooftop restaurant. We were hoping we would be able to see everything, have breakfast and head out. Well wrong we were. We waited for over an hour for food and there wasn’t much of a view. Vince wasn’t feeling good so when we finished we took Vince back to the hotel and headed out to the circle that has lots of shopping.
It took about 15minutes. We got there and I wanted to go into the park. When we went to find the entrance a person told us we couldn’t go in due to the clothes we were wearing and we couldn’t bring in cameras. It turned out it wasn’t true because the guy got us to go to this really expensive rug place. The only good part was we learned how the rug was made and got tea. If I had a lot more money maybe but just couldn’t do it. So we finally got out of there and headed back to the circle. We got sidetracked and ended up in a back street of stores. A few of the girls got some things and Nate wanted to eat so we had food. It was about 3pm so we finally got back to the circle.
A few of the girls headed to shop. After awhile people started leaving and couldn’t be found. It wouldn’t have been a big deal if it was one of the guys or a girl with a guy but Becky and Anh kept wondering off. Finally we found them. Nate got his ears cleaned while Johnny B got his shoes cleaned. We were getting tired and it was nerve racking having people try to pull you here and there to sell stuff. Also beggers come up because you are white so money is assumed. So we all headed back to the hotel. India is a lot to take in especially New Delhi.

Everything seems to be under construction. Denny says its because the workers are not paid a lot so some things never get finished or take forever to finish.

Kids ask for their photo and then want you to give them money. Becky asked one lady and she said no. It makes me wonder if they do not like getting their pictures taken.

Thats all for now. Sorry it took so long for an update. More of India will be coming, its hard because we are doing alot of traveling. Oh and Happy Birthday to Me!