day 30

I hope that you are feeling better today. Gita relieved me at work and I spoke with her at length about India. She has never been to many of the places that you have gone and she is from there! She has wanted to go do the houseboat on the backwaters, but she never gotten around to it. After I said that you had done that, she swears the next time she goes to India she is doing the houseboat thing.
Did you get to speak to anyone at the Consulate? If then had any suggestions, be sure and tell me. I'm interested in what they had to say.
Our big thing here is our Wii. It was suppose to be a family Christmas present, but it never even made it to my scraproom to be wrapped. We have all been playing since we got it yesterday. Even gma joins in and plays bowling. She is very good and almost beat dad at it until the last frame when he bowled some strikes.The cutest thing is that we made are Mii avatars and we pop up during the games. Like if Jason and dad are bowling, me, gma and steph will be in the crowd watching. Or if dad is playing baseball, we all are on the opposing team. In tennis, the ones not playing are spectators. It's so funny. The weirdest thing is that dad and Jason's avatar really look like them. Especially when they are diving for a ball!
I am getting ready to do Christmas. I don't know why but even broke as I am, I can't wait to decorate. I want to do it early so that I can just sit back and enjoy the season. On my way home from work I saw several people with Christmas trees on the roofs of their cars and it made me feel so nostalgic. I remember going to get the tree was such a big deal. We would wait until the 15th so that the tree wouldn't dry out. The whole family would go to the tree lot. It seemed when I was younger that we always managed to go on the coldest night. We would go from lot to lot looking for the perfect tree. Every one that was a possible pick would be scrutinized by the entire clan. My grandma would make the initial pick, my grandpa would drag the tree out where everyone could get a good look at it. My dad would tell grandpa to give it a thump or two and grandpa would tap that tree against the pavement to see if it dropped too many needles. Mom would bend a few needles to make sure they were not dry and I would inhale deep just to catch that crisp smell of pine, which surely had to be the ultimate test for the perfect fresh tree.
Later, I decided that the perfect tree had to be one that we found and cut so we'd get a permit to go up to the mountains and cut our own tree. The one problem with that is the little tiny charlie brown looking tree in the wild, is a HUGE, gigantic monster of a tree in a living room with 7 1/2 foot ceilings.
We went from that, to tree lots looking for the cheapest tree [this is while dad and I were both in school and funds were pretty low], then back to big gigantic cut trees that looked great, but didn't last long. I don't even want to relate how our one gorgeous tree ended up being replaced on Christmas Eve because it was dead and needles were dropping by the handfuls if anyone even thought about breathing on the dang thing. Now I haul out the fake one, which doesn't smell good unless I find a great pine candle. Which reminds me of the year dad hung up a bunch of pine tree car fresheners inside the tree...but that's another story. Anyway, back to my fake tree which I can take out and decorate December first and even if it does smell a bit like dust if you get too close, it looks beautiful , doesn't dry out and I don't have to worry about falling needles.
On a whole different note, did you decide to go to the hugging mother's ashram? This is one mother sending hugs your way. Write me!

info

Information for Travelers
Warden Messages
TERROR ATTACKS IN MUMBAI
November 27, 2008

Terrorists attacked two hotels, a railway station, restaurant, hospital, and other locations in Mumbai frequented by Westerners on November 26. Over 100 persons are believed to have been killed, and hundreds injured. Gunfire continues between terrorists and police at several locations in Mumbai. Some of the casualties are foreigners, and media reports indicate Americans have been targeted.

Due to the fluid situation in Mumbai, Americans are urged to defer travel to Mumbai for at least the next 48-72 hours. Those currently in Mumbai are asked to take shelter at their current location and contact family and friends. American citizens in need of assistance related to the terrorist attacks should call the Department of State Mumbai Task Force at 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers in other areas, by calling a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. All welfare and whereabouts inquiries regarding Americans who may have been in the Mumbai area can be made by calling the above numbers.

Americans throughout India should be vigilant about security at all times. The Embassy and Consulates are actively assessing the countrywide security environment. Americans are advised to monitor local news reports, vary their routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, or hotels, restaurants, entertainment and recreation venues. If unattended packages are spotted, American citizens should immediately exit the area and report the packages to authorities.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Americans are also encouraged to read the Country Specific Information for India, available on the Embassy's website at http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov, and also at http://travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department's travel registration web site at
https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/ so that they can obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. For additional information, please refer to "A Safe Trip Abroad" found at http://travel.state.gov.

U.S. citizens may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the Embassy or the Consulates General for further information:

-- The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi is located at Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri 110021; telephone +91-11-2419-8000; fax +91-11-2419-8407. The Embassy's Internet home page address is http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay) is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. The Internet home page address is http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras) is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027. The Internet home page address is http://chennai.usconsulate.gov.

-- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta) is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. The Internet home page address is http://kolkata.usconsulate.gov

Joey,
Didn't you go to Chennai? Can you go back? Or maybe call the number they have provided to see if they have any suggestions about the best way to get back home. Let us know if we need to get another ticket, dad can arrange that.

day 28 & 29

Thanksgiving this year would have been perfect if only you were here with us. We were organized and grandma had the turkey in the oven early enough for us to have our turkey dinner at 2:00. How nice it was to eat early. We didn't have to go to bed stuffed, the kitchen was cleaned and the best part, we could eat turkey sandwiches later on when we got hungry. I happened to see a web site that had a thanksgiving project on it. Every week for the next 52 weeks [until next Thanksgiving] you take a pic and journal something that you are grateful for. Then next year we can take a look at what people wrote. I think we should do that, so today jot down in your journal something that you are thankful for and then for the next 52 weeks, keep adding 1 thing per week.
My first thing [other than being thankful for God creating us] I am thankful for, is Thanksgiving. It is so easy to take your loved ones for granted and on this one day, we are focused enough to put things in perspective and realize how important are family and friends are to our existence. So, I am grateful for the holiday.
I am also so very thankful that I didn't go to Jimmy's [nephew]for dessert and poker. If I had I would have missed your call. The connection was pretty crappy and the call was dropped, but it made me feel so good to hear your voice. I thought that you sounded upset, but you told me you just missed us and when I told dad, he said you probably felt that way because it was the holiday and you were not home. I think that he was right...you love turkey day and you missed it, as well as missing you BD. That's enought right there to make you a little homesick.
It sounds like you will be having fun, though, on the houseboat. Is it on a lake, a big river or the ocean? I am glad that you are traveling with others. Considering the situation over there, it is probably best that you not travel too much on your own. I am not sure what you could do, but the State Department has put ALL of India on High Alert. They have not come right out and advised that all Americans leave the country, but I suggest keeping track of the news and if they do suggest you leaving, find out from the Embassy or consulate the best means on how to accomplish that. I will find out where the nearest Embassy/Consulate is from where you are at. They gave us a phone number to the State Department that we can call to check on advisories and updates, I will pass on any info I am given there.
I bet you did not include political unrest in your vacation plans. It is weird, but I was in Amman, Jordan during the 6 day war. I remember being on recess at the American School and seeing a bunch a people in the distance running around. We were too young to realize that the popping we heard were gunshots and not firecrackers. Our teachers lead us back into the school and we stayed there until the Marines came and got us to take us back to our homes. Later on at my friends house we sat on the roof and watched the "fireworks". Of course, they weren't fireworks at all, but the bombings over by the Jordan River. We ended up getting evacuated to Athens on my birthday. What an adventure. It was just grandma and I, my dad had to stay in Amman, locked up in the Embassy burning papers and money. That's what grandma told me. "Daddy has to stay. He needs to burn all the paper and money." I never did go back to Amman after that, they sent us home to the States instead.
I want you to stay and finish out you trip, but I don't want you to stay and jeopardize you safety and welfare if things are sketchy. Have fun, but be aware of your surroundings and cautious in your dealings with others.
Most importantly...come home healthy. I miss your bright smile, all our conversations and your big bear hugs.

day 27

We are all sitting here watching the terrible news about the bombing in Mumbai. We hear that Oberon and Taj hotels as well as the train station and hospital have been hit. Please contact us as soon as you read this. They are saying on the news that the group responsible for this are targeting people with American or British passports. Was your intial plan to loop around and end up back at Mumbai? How is the atmosphere towards westerners where you are now? My fear is that what happened in Mumbai will start a trend that spreads outward to where you are traveling. Please be very cautious and reconsider leaving earlier if things are becoming hostile. I don't want your dream to end up being my nightmare.
Going back to the news to see what further developments there are. Write back! Be safe!!

joey wrote:
the news is all over here in Varkala. I had met some Americans that were suppose to meet me for breakfast but showed up late. I guess they got caught up with emails from family pleading that they come home. I have to admit, I am a little worried now. That's scary news to hear, especially when I have a flight I to catch out of Mumbai.
Like you, I've wondered if these attacks will begin a "movement" further down south. The town of Varkala is over populated with tourist, so I'm not sure exactly what's going on or how the locals are feeling towards Americans.


I was suppose to catch a train or bus today to Alleppey where I would take a cruise on a houseboat with the two American girls I met. But of course, we couldn't find anything that fit our budget or needs. A regular 2nd class seat on an indian trainis absoutely imposible! So here I am for one more day until 7am tomorrow morning where we'll take a taxi to Alleppey. From there, we will find a hotel to stay in and take our houseboat out on the back waters for two nights! I'm really excited, but with all this news and nothing working out as far as transportation goes, I'm feeling a bit down. I even checked out of my guesthouse today thinking I was leaving. So now I have to find somewhere newer and hopefully cheaper to stay.
I gueass I'll go to the beach now. Or maybe get something to eat... Try to ward off this negative energy!!


I love you so much,
me!!

day 26

You must of sent some blessings and good karma my way because I looked down at Amaya and she was playing with my iPod. Yes, you read that right, my iPod. Plus I looked in the bag that she was sitting by, and the chargers to both my camera and dad's camera was in it. You know how hard we looked for those things? I had given up even looking any more thinking that it must of fell out of the motorhome when we were at Powell. I figured that I must not of brought the chargers with us and that they were somewhere in the house. However they ended up downstairs in a bag Amaya was going through is beyond me, but I'm sure happy I got my iPod back.
Taiya and Jimmy left today. It was sad to see them go, but I bet they are glad to be back home. Tai said as long as they don't need to have a 4-wheel drive to get here, they will come for Christmas. That will be fun to have the whole family here for the holidays.
Right now I am trying to put together some of those big snowflakes to put outside. I've always thought that they would look nice out there with some icicle lights. I saw on the internet someone had made them and painted them a light blue. It looked very good. Although it is cold, it doesn't look too much like winter here. At least not yet. The skies are clear and blue and I haven't had to wear much more than long sleeves or my sweat shirt when I'm outside. Which suits me fine, as long as it snows in time for Christmas.
Thanksgiving is fast approaching and we will be thinking of you. I know how much you love turkey. I'm not sure whether that is something you can find over there, maybe you can find a restaurant that caters to westeners and they'll have turkey with all the trimmings!
You are half way through your trip. I feel like now I can start a count down to your return. I can't wait for you to be back, but I bet you wish that time won't come too soon. I can imagine the closer to the end of you journey, the more you'll start thinking about your next destination.
Gita came back from India. I spoke to her on Sunday and she was so anxious to hear how your trip was. I told her you wouldn't be back until Dec 15 but that you were loving every minute of it. You have been to places that she has never been and she would love to see your pics when you get home. Only 19 more days!!

catching up

Here I was wondering and worrying why I haven't heard from you and it turns out you're having the same thoughts. I've neglected my blog in favor of just writing to you but never got a response. I thought you were at a location where the internet was not available. When I got a message saying you picked up your e-card but I didn't get any other correspondence, I really fussed about why I wasn't hearing from you. It sounds like you didn't get my emails [did you get one from Tai?] so I'll stick to my blog.
Most of what I wrote was about Tai, Jimmy and Kian, who by the way, are doing very well and are still here. What seemed like the end of the world a few days ago, now is put into perspective and we are concentrating on the best way to care for Kian so that he can reach his full potential. We can speculate on levels of functioning, but the truth is, you just don't know anything for sure. Only time will tell and that really pertains to all of us.
Yesterday seemed like a "normal" day. I went to work, we went out to eat, visited Aunt Nanc, who oohed and aahed over him for a full 3 hours, watched tv, played yahtzee and went about the day like we always do.
I graciously ignored the comment about my passion for procrastination [although I had to giggle because it is so true] and had to google your latest stops to see what I was missing. I see that you stuck to your word and headed back to the coast. The beaches are gorgeous, especially at Varkala. The pictures I saw posted showed a pretty secluded beach, is it really like that, or are you having to fight the crowds? I know you longed to get to a place where you could find some peace and solitude...I hope in Varkala you found it.
I asked what everyone wanted, the general concensus is that whatever you can bring home and you think we'd like, we will. You have impeccable taste when it comes to gift giving. Thank goodness you are more like your dad, he always manages to pick the perfect thing. If you are not too pressed for money, Lute asked if you could pick up something for Rachael. She is crazy about India and would love to have something from there. She is quite slender, but a medium would probably be best that way she will be able to wear it for a longer time. If not that, some earrings or a bag. If they have toe rings for chubby toes, I'd really like that, but what I'm really looking forward to is having you home.
Jimmy wondered if you had grown a beard. That made us think of you and your turbans and we thought how much you must look like you belong in India if you are sporting a turban and a beard. Hopefully you are getting some pictures, I would say have someone take a pic of you but then I remembered that one scene in European Vacation when the Griswald's gave someone their camera and the guy ran off with it!
I wondered about you bare necessities when you left home, it sounds like you needed to pack a little more than you did. I especially worried about the underwear situation, but you sounded so confident about what you were packing, I didn't offer any advise. At least next time, you will be such a seasoned traveler that you will know exactly what you need to pack. Did I mention that next time you go, you need to take your mother?
I have the rest of the week off and am planning on getting lights up for Christmas. It will be so festive when you get back. Perhaps I had better not mention this as you know how I procrastinate and what you don't know won't reflect badly on me!!
I felt bad about your having to spend the 50 rupees to see email that was not there...but then I found out that that was about $1.00
Will forget the email and stick to the blog from here on out.
Until tomorrow, much love

joey wrote:
Mom,
you're not keeping up with your blog. I know that you're really passionate about procrastination but please, try to keep up as I like to read the blog entries whenever I have a chance.
I left the city of Trivandrum and came to the cliff side beaches of Varkala. It's really beautiful here and I'll probably stay here for a while.
Then I'm thinking of heading up to Kollam.
Things have been going really well. I've been buying clothes like crazy since I left home with barely anything. I've also been trying to shop for family and friends but I just don't know what anyone wants. There are shops EVERYWHERE, all selling pretty much the same thing but I can't figure out what to really get anyone....
maybe ask around and see if anyone wants anything special? Imported from India along with your son?
Well, keep up with the blogging please.

I hate paying 50 rupees to only see one email from jesse and no new blog entries on your 45 day thing. it's wasting my rupees!!

well i love you and namaste!

day 21 & 22

First off, it was so good to talk to you, you sounded so good. I was happy that I did not miss that call. I can't remember exactly where you said that you were, but I recall you said that it was raining. I think that I'd head back to the beaches as well. It was too bad that your timing was off and you did not get to see the exteriors of the temples...but you probably got to see what few westerners get to see, the inside of one.
In your letter you mentioned about paying for praying. I had read on someone elses blog that this is a very typical thing in India. Evidently, when you are approached they will ask you if you want blessings or prayers said for you and your loved ones. They go on and ask you names of your family members and then after all the praying, they charge you for each person you named. I thought that this was terrible at first, but on second thought, there really isn't much difference between this and some church asking for donations. At least in this case, you know for sure someone is praying for your welfare.
I emailed you with news of Kian. I received email back, but it looked like you hit "reply" and sent it forward with no text. I hope that you are well. I didn't think too much about it at first, but you know me...the more I stew about something, the more I imagine the worse happening. Be sure to write as soon as you read this so I know that all is well.
Not sure about the time difference, but HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! We are all thinking about you and wishing you the best on your special day. We will have to go out once you are home. Not sure if you want to go to the Himalayan or India Fusion, you may be sick of indian fare after 45 days of eating it. Maybe you'll just want some steak or prime rib.
Taiya and Jimmy made it here. I am enjoying having both my grandbabies home. Amaya is very jealous of the attention that Kian it getting. Whoever is holding the baby is who she wants to go to. At one point she was holding her hands out to everyone...she just couldn't make up her mind where she wanted to go. She was very interested in her new cousin, or maybe it was his bottle she had her eye on.
Hopefully Kian will be back for Christmas, if not, I think that they will have the christening in January so you can see him then.
Getting late now and I have work tomorrow. Be sure to write me back with new adventures

day 19 & 20

Joey, I can't believe I missed your call. Ever since you wrote that you will try to, I have had the phone by me just in case. The last call, dad almost got to the phone in time, but instead of trying to call back, we listened to the messages and that is when we learned that you had been trying to get in touch. You sound so good!! Dad deleted the message as soon as it finished. I wanted him to save it. At the risk of sounding really weird, I wanted to be able to hear it again and again. It made me miss you all that much more. Hopefully you will write or try to call again...it will be so nice to be able to speak with you.
Where are you now? I tried to update that map on the blog, but since Tai initially was the one to put it on, I think she is the one that has to update it. Things are settling down for her so hopefully she can do that soon. Your daily schedule is so different once you have kids, but she is very good at organizing her day and she seems to have gotten it down already.
Kian is staying awake longer and longer. Where before he would wake and stay up for maybe a few minutes to half hour or so, now he is up for HOURS. Also, he is taking in more during his feedings and starting to suck his thumb so I don't think that he has any problems with weak jaw muscles or anything. That was one of the things they were worried about in the hospital when he was born. I think that he has made much progress. Tomorrow Taiya takes him back to the doctor and we will see what the doc thinks of him.
I can't believe that your birthday is creeping up. You spent your 18th birthday in Texas, but you had your brother there with you. This will be your first one away from family and home. I hope you have something special planned for yourself that day. Maybe there is someway that you can be online and we can chat. Is it possible? Can you IM from that far away? Does it even make a difference? Let me know
I started making my Christmas cards. It was strange not having you there to give your opinion. I bugged dad until he finally gave me his and he actually suggested something that made my card look better. I will finish it off, take a pic and post it for you tomorrow.
Well, that's about it for today. Hopefully we will be hearing from you later tonight!

day 17 & 18

Missed posting yesterday as we were in transit back to Salt Lake. I wished I could have stayed longer with Taiya and I missed her and the baby the minute we left, but there's something about being home that feels so good. And the weather is holding out, it's predicted to be around 55 degrees all week with clear skies. Not too shabby for November.
Got to read your email before I left. Not quite sure what to make of it...Taiya said that maybe that was a ploy to distract you while someone else tried to steal your money. I certainly would find that distracting enough to not notice someone trying to pick my pocket. In Africa, I had someone engage me in conversation while another person stole a tv right out of the backseat of a car I was sitting in. I never even had an inkling of what was going on until my dad came out and asked where the tv was. Boy, I sure felt like an idiot on that day.
Did you make it to the temples? Be sure to let me know how that went. What is your next destination? Are you seeing more tourists as you go to the more populated areas?
Grandma sure misses you. Today she was worrying that you might not have enough money. Then I started to worry that you might run out. Before you left I thought that what you were taking was sufficient, but now I'm not so sure. Are you running short? Is there anywhere there that you would be able to use the debit card just in case?
You might be able to see your little nephew at Christmas. Jimmy says if the weather is not too bad, they will drive up to spend the holiday with us. I hope they will be able to make it. I will have both my grandbabies here on their First Christmas...I'm already thinking of the layouts for that big day!!

Joey wrote:
I missed my bus to Madurai last night. I guess when a bus says it leaves at 10:00 pm... it LEAVES at 10:00pm(which is very unusual India). Thank God for the wonderful service these Indians provide, though! The man at reception called the Madurai bus driver and told him to stop in Trichy where I would then board once I arrived. Fortunately for me, the bus to Tricht was free of charge concidering I was only about 5 minutes late. I WAS SO GREATFULL! The bus drivers were too kind and always seemed to remember my final destination had never failed to help me get to where it was I needed to go.

Last night while I walking to my GH, a man approached me and asked to see my penis. I have to admit, I was a little worried as he kept following me, asking for sex, sex, sex... THEN today, another man kept groping my crotch and asked me to come with him to smoke opium and have sex all day. Things are stating to get a little weird, so I've had to start yelling things is a semi-french gibberidh language to ward off all these people that are pissing me off... Indians are very tiny people, though so I'm not too worried about being attacked. I really feel as though I could beat the living shit out of anyone trying toh rape me or something.... Ha ha ha ha. Who knoes, though? Most are very kind people willing to help me as much as they can.


I'm handling myself very well and being as respectful as possible. I feel as though my skin is getting thicker and thicker with each passing day.


please try not to worry too much, I feel safer now then I have since I've been in India.


I love you so very much and once I find an international telephone, I plan to call home. With the difference in time though, it makes it a little bit complicated.


I LOVE YOU MOM.


TELL GMA I MISS HER AND THAT AS EACH DAY PASSES THERE IS SOMETHING OR ANOTHER THAT ALWAYS REMINDS ME OF HER!!!

day 16

We extended our stay by one day in Vegas. Taiya is looking much better [more well rested] and I am not so reluctant to leave her now. I told her that since our visit was so short this time, we can come back sooner than we had originally planned and it sounds like Jimmy is considering coming to see us during the Christmas holiday. That would be so perfect to have my two newest grandbabies with me for their first Christmas.
Today Kian got his bath and I got to take neat naked baby shots. They turned out pretty good so I will post one of my favorites here today.
I googled Madurai and am so envious of you being able to see those magnificent temples in person. I read that the city is over 2500 years old [one of the oldest in India] and is know as "The City of Nectar". Also, I read that they known for their jasmine. My favorite fragrance! One of the main temples there, the Meenakshi, is suppose to have 1000 intricately carved columns including some musical pillars that produce music when tapped. Be sure to try this out, if I can't do it myself, at least I can experience it vicariously through you.
I also saw a video that someone had taken from a vehicle going down the road. Oh, Joey, I cannot believe that you would even consider taking such a harrowing ride! There was beeping and people and cars and taxis and people and rickshaws congesting the road and the driver was swerving and careening all over. I can't imagine you being in such a situation...no wonder you needed Valium! I am thinking that once this trip is over, there will not be much that will rattle your nerves. Compared to life in India, I bet everything else is smooth sailing.
Well, I am rambling on. I need to sleep so I can get an early start tomorrow. It will be good to be home, but I know I will miss Tai and the baby the minute the car starts down the road.
Thinking of you and sending you my love...

Joey wrote:

Hello Mamma!!!
Today I had a very wondful day roaming the streets of Pondicherry. They call the east side of the canal the "French Quarter" but to be completely honest.... There was nothing really french about it.
I'm starting to get use to this Indian culture though, and life here seems to be getting better.
I'm off to Madurai tonight around 10pm and I should arrive around 6am. I'm really looking foreward to it as many travellers tell me the temples are absolutely breathtaking.
I visited the Aurobindo Ashram again today in hopes to meditate and send my positive energies towards my little baby nephew. I hope all is well with him and I look foreward to seeing him as soon as possible!!

How are YOU doing? How is weight watchers going? I hope everything is going as planned. I know that once you apply yourself; yu can accomplish your "goal" weight.. I can't help but think of when you and I went to Vegas and did our weekly cleanse. It was SO easy and If I were there, I would help see you through it.


Send more pictures of my wonderful baby nephew and expect a postcard anytime soon, here.I LOVE YOU -
JOEY

day 15

Busy day today. We are still in Vegas, spent the whole day doing errands with Tai. Baby Kian had some lab test done and a doctor's appointment. Doc said that he is doing well. Jaundice is improved, heart sounds beautiful, kidneys are working and told Taiya to "go home and enjoy your baby." Good advice. It has been an eventful week, it is good she has so much time off, I only wish I could stay until she is well rested and up to taking care of a new infant. She is a good mommy and I take such pleasure in seeing her take care of Kian. She records all his feedings and writes down every diaper change. She wraps him up like a "burrito", which he absolutely loves, and coos over him. Jimmy is every bit attentive...how lucky this baby is to have come into this family. We all love him so.
I was anxious to hear about your visit to the ashram. I think I may have already told you this, but when I was at Roberts, the lady in front of me was telling me her brother went to India and stayed at one. He ended up staying there for, I can't remember exactly, but something like 4 or 6 months. Anyway, it was a very spiritual experience and one that changed his life. She said that after the visit, he felt more focused and aware of the connection we have with everything around us. Sometimes, when I am up in the mountains, on the river or out in the desert, I become overwhelmed at the vastness of the world. I am just a particle but then I feel a true sense of belonging, like I am just where I need to be at that particular moment, and I see myself as a significant part of the whole picture. Maybe that's why I need to get out...I feel like I'm starving if I can't be outdoors, away from the city.
Along these same lines, I read with interest about Auroville. I logged on to the website, downloaded the newletter and read it with interest. Very new-age-Dawn-of-Aquarius-y. Never did get a clear idea about it so it will be very interesting to hear of your visit there.
Continue to explore, have great fun and write back to me.
I miss you!

day 14

You must be more like your grandma Ferrin than not. She would dream things and now you do too. Baby's name does start with a "K", it's Kian Michael. Which is pretty good considering that he was going to be a DeShawn. He looks more like a Kian to me. He is so very sweet. That is good that you are sending blessings his way. He seems perfect to me, but the doc has some concerns and they are doing tests on him. Although he is home now, we won't know for sure how he really is doing for a few more weeks.
I thought that you would be able to find what you needed in Chennai. When I told dad that Pondicherry was colonized by the french, he said "it's still India," so I read with amusement when you said as much yourself. I have yet to look up Auroville, but will see what is in store for you at your next destination.
On the home front, we are still here in Vegas. Not sure when we will be heading home. I first thought that I would stay at least a week, but when dad couldn't get the days off I figured I would head home on Saturday, but now I am thinking I may extend that. Jimmy needs to go back to work and I just feel that Taiya could benefit having someone here. Grandma was going to stay until after Thanksgiving, but I'm not sure she is wanting to do that. You know she doesn't like to be away from our home for very long. The weather here is perfect...80's today with blue skies, it's easy to convince myself I ought to linger.
As the days go by and I read your posts, I am not as anxious about your travels. You have encountered quite a bit and have managed to get by. You really sound like you are enjoying your trip and I can't wait to see you, see your pictures and hear all about it. Are you writing in your journal? Remember to put it all down, so one day when you are a very old, old man you can read all about it and relive your adventure.


Joey wrote:
Namaste from Pondicherry!

I can't believe the baby was born so soon. I kept having dream after dream about this child's birth (remember that I'm about 24.5 hours a head of you) and here he is. My fabulous little nephew!!
I was a little worried about not hearing from you after his birth.. Once I "felt" that he was here though, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and possibly safety. It feels good knowing that much is happening while I'm away :) What name did they both decide on? In my dreams the name started with a "K" not knowing what it's entirety was... Please wish Tai and Jimmy my love. I'm so happy to hear that we have a new addition to our wonderful family. Tomorrow I will have to find a sadhu (who is anxiously waiting to take my money, I'm sure) that can bless the new born, hundreds of thousand mile away. <3

I hate to admit it,
but Chennai really grew on me pretty quickly. I got everything done that needed to get done. Small things were finally accomplished. Things such an American adapters (now I'm free to take as many pictures as possible!!!), fingernail clippers, rubber flip flops, soap, and even some valium (which I must say, helps dull the senses to this harsh Indian culture) were all abble to be purchased.
As far as eating went, I found some of the best Indian cuisine in S.India so far. Half the time I couldn't understant a word that my waiter said but he never failed to bring me something absolutely fantastic. I really liked Chennai, and even though I was only able to stay for a night, I had a great time roaming the city.

I arrived in Pondicherry last night and stayed in an over-priced (875rs) "budget lodge" that didn't have much character but it was close to the city though so wonderng aimlessly thoughout the city after dark didn't seem too "off-putting". I moved to another guest house about 30-45 minutes (walking distance) away from the French Quarter and with attached bathroom it's only 600rs. I really love this place. It has so much charecture and tte rooms are nicely decorated and full of colour. I can see myself staying for AT LEAST another night. Except rickshaws here cost a lot so I've been planning to just walk everywhere unless it gets too dark.

The French Quarter is still very much India, though. I had imagined it to be a little more.... "French". That is definately not the case. Wider streets and most buisnesses operate on European times. 9am-1:30-ish and 5pm-11pm. It's slightly different here nut a nice change of pace. It feel SO AMAZING to get the small nessesities that I've been longing for. I'm starting to feel like I'm SLOWLY but surely breaking into this whole "Indian culture thing". Tomorrow I plan to visit the Sri Aurobindo Ashram. People tell me it's pretty amzing and extremely cheaper accomidation. I just might visit Auroville aswell, Which is a humanitary communtity filled with tourists of the like.
well,
It's been wonderful writing home (especially since this GH offers FREE internet!!) and hearing the wonderful news of the birth of my little nephew. I hope to see him around Christmas if not sooner.
Wish everyone well and send my love to everyone at home... or in Vegas... or wherever you are.


I miss you everyday.


Love,
ME

day 13

Well, we made it to Vegas and bee lined straight to the hospital to see the baby. He is so tiny! I can't believe that Taiya has her own baby. She wanted and tried for so long and when I look down at him, it's unbelievable to me that she finally got her dream. Remember how odd he looked in the ultra sound? It looks nothing like that, thank goodness. I think that he looks like Tai from the nose down, but his eyes and forehead are all Jimmy. The cutest thing about him is his hair. It's about 2 1/2 inches high and stands straight up in a baby faux-hawk. After his bath, the nurse brought him in and said she thought he looked like a sumo, personally, I think he looks like a baby eskimo.
I'm anxious to hear from you. When I looked up Chennai, it looked metropolitan enough to find a travel agent to help you book your train to your next destination, did you have any trouble arranging things? Hopefully I will hear from you soon. I know you told me it would be a few days, but I can't help worrying when I don't hear anything.

day 12

Taiya was right about her "feeling"! She's in the hospital now having her baby. Dad and I are on our way down to Vegas. Will write more once I am down there.
Love you!

Did you get to Chennai? How do you like it? Did you eat there yet? How was the service?

day 11

Your nephew may get here sooner than we thought. Tai called tonight and said that she had been getting some crampy like pains that have been becoming more frequent as time passes. She says that they are still just a few every hour, but she has a feeling that he may be coming soon. It would be great if he was, I've got the next 5 days off and if I took 3 off, I'd end up with 11 days off. That would just be perfect timing.
Of course the minute I tell everyone what Taiya has said, we all had to relive our delivery days. I like grandma's story the best. On the day I was born, she was dancing the tango and her water broke. On the day that you were born, I had just started my work week. I ended up going to the hospital and had to call work to tell them you were being born. The first thing the charge nurse wanted to know was if I could find a replacement for that night. As bad as that sounds, what's worse is that I started thinking about who I could call to see if they could work. Dad finally told them I was a little preoccupied at the moment and that they would have to find my replacement.
I looked up Chennai, it does not look like a little town, on the contrary, it looked pretty substantial. When I googled it I went to the first site listed and it had a very good guide to the city. It seemed to me like you should be able to find whatever you need there. Are you expecting to stay for a few days, or are you moving on? It might be nice to regroup...On my Amazing Race, they are in India and on one of the challenges you had to work at the laundry. They showed people hitting clothes against huge rocks and women ironing with old time hot irons, you know the ones that you stuff with coals. I immediately thought of you and the limited amount of clothing that you took with you. I'm thinking that if Chennai is as metropolitan as it sounds, maybe they have laudrying places that actually have washing machines. I just can't envision you whacking your pants against a rock to clean them. Oh, wait...maybe I can...
One other thing I read about Chennai is that they are famous for their hospitality and believe that serving food is a service to humanity. Eating out is suppose to be a great experience. Bon Appetit!!

joey wrote:
Hi Mom!
Well today is my last day in Hampi. It pains me to be leaving! I had a really good time here and I definately have to come back one day. Too much to see, I didn't even see a fraction of Hampi's temples. I had to book a ticket to Bangalore to take me to Chennai. Once I'm in Chennai I'm completely on my own and have to find a room, and somebody that can book me a ticket to Pondicherry. If it's too much of a hassel or let's say I like Chennai(which I kind of doubt) then I'll just skip Pondi and head to Madurai. I spoke with a British woman who said that for her, Madurai's temples were far more beautiful than the Taj Mahal! I'll be in Chennai tomorrow afternoon. I hope all is well. I think it's great that you're back on weight watchers. I hope you're really able to do it. I know you are! I keep having dreams that the baby is born! Who knows? Maybe any day now... i keep thinking of my Grandma too! Tell her I miss and love her! I hope she's doing well in Wendover. I'll write in the next couple days. Chennai might be too intense for me, I'll need to read some words from home to re charge!
I love you!!

day 10

Puducherry...the French Connection in India. I read that the french were the ones to settle there and lost it to the Dutch and then the British, but they kept trying to re-establish their hold there. One of the things that I think is so great about you being in India is I get to find out about places that I would never have even heard of. I read about the Heritage walks there and all the shopping and even found out that they make great handmade paper in Puducherry [hint, hint]. Did I mention that I am collecting all kinds of eastern looking elements to make your scrapbook?
It's ironic that when you were younger you loved France and yearned to go there and now you are in a place where India and France meet. How perfect for you!
I understand you not being able to write everyday. I was suprised that you've been able to get to the computer as often as you have been. I look forward to hearing from you whenever you get a chance...just don't let it go to long, I will start to worry whether you are well or not.
Today not much going on. Talked to Tai who is anxiously waiting. I told her to get plenty of rest while she can, she will be busy once the baby comes. I think it will be only a matter of weeks.
Can't wait to say "Welcome to the world, sweet grandbaby boy!"

joey wrote:
hi mom!
i'm doing very well today. I'm still in Hampi and trying to see all the sights before I leave. I went to a travel agent to figure how I can get to where I want to go, but he didn't really help me. I guess it's going to be a little more complicated getting around than I had planned. I imagined that I could pick a place to go, and the agent would either book a train or bus ticket and I'd be on my way. not so much in india. I have to go to a city, to get to a little city which can take me to the city that i was trying to get to. it's just too much...

i've been eating at this amazing little restaraunt called the mango tree. it's outdoors and on a little cliff side so while you eat you can just watch the river below you. i took pictures so you will see my favorite spot here in hampi soon enough. i forgot my usb cord to my camera! so even when it is all charged up, i might not be able copy my pictures to a disk! Unless somehow by a miracle there is someone in south india that can copy my photos to a disk using something that can read my memory card! I did get it semi-charged though. i met another traveler that let me use her power.
well i love you and i'll keep you updated.
logging on to the computer everyday is going to start costing me so i may have to hold back on the everday emails. I'll let you know my plans once i know them. i love you!

day 9

Did you notice our map on our blog? I didn't even know it was there until last night. Now we can track your progress. When I got to looking at it, I saw that there is even a place for you to post your pictures of the places that you have been. I hope that you were able to find an adapter so that you can charge your camera. Wouldn't that be the pits, all the wonder of India and no camera to capture it.
I am glad to see that you are feeling better and that you are planning to continue your trip. You shouldn't think twice about returning if you are ill, but it sounds like whatever ailment you had, you have overcome it.
I have been thinking about challenges and have been so inspired by you. You decided to go to India and then did what you had to to do it. I told you that I believe that there is nothing that you cannot accomplish if you set your mind to it and I need to believe in that too. Today I saw this. "Success is overcoming the person inside who wants to quit." You already know the one thing that I can't seem to be successful at...changing my eating habits, but today I thought about the journey I need to take towards better health and I went back to Weight Watchers. My first goal? Stay on track for 45 days...it somehow seemed appropriate.
Know what the best view is of all? The one from home, so here's one for today

joey wrote:
Mommy!thank you!yesterday i told myself all that i needed was for you to say "come home" and i'd be on the next plane home. I was really at an all time low. I've never felt like that in my entire life! I was just so alone! I planned to just go back to goa and maybe spend the rest of my trip resting on the beach.today I'm feeling much better though. I spent the day walking around some great temples, had lunch with an aussie and now writing home. I never got a chance to move hotels because i figured if i was sick, I'd want a western toilet attached to my room. I am ready to move now. After I finish with this letter, I'm going to talk to a travel agent to book me a bus to pondicherry. From pondicherry I will go to Madurai because I have that train reservation to trivandrum. It's for 4 in the morning though and now i'm worried about finding a rickshaw driver to take me. and since my experience with those savage beast-dogs I refuse to walk anywhere past dark. I guess i'll figure it out though. Please post more pictures! pictures of the family too! and don't stop blogging when tai's baby comes! I look foreward to reading it every day! i love you so much!

day 7 and 8

I have been worried about you since your email. I hate to think of you ill and no one there to care for you. On rereading what you wrote, I thought that part of the stomach problems may have stemmed from your run in with the dogs. That's enough to shake up anyone. I hope that you have gotten my email and that things have improved. If not, dad recommends clear liquids for a day, then only bananas, rice, applesauce and toast for a day to rest your bowels and on the third day, gradually introduce more foods.
Grandma left to go to her tournament. She is so funny. Remember she went digging through all her stuff to get the perfect outfits for her "A Formal Affair" tournament and what she picked out was what can only be described as one of her Frankendresses [Stef's term, but so appropriate]. You know the ones: she will tear several articles of clothing apart only to rearrange the pieces to make a new item. Some of those dresses turn out pretty good, but I can't help thinking how much easier it would be to just go to the store. I guess it is like my paper crafts. I can spend a ton of money and all day making a card that I could have picked up at Walmart for 5 bucks.
Today I kept thinking of all the things I wanted to tell you, but right now, all I am concentrating on is wondering if you have written back. I can't stand it, it's 11:15 pm and just about the time I usually check my email and see you there. I must go check...

Nothing yet, but I did see that I had forgotten to add your latest narratives, so here they are

joey wrote:

mom!!hellllo!Last night was the last day of festival and I swear it didn't even really stop! All night long I heard celebrating and fireworks. Most families have cleared out but there are still a lot of people here. I found a new guesthouse for about 200 rps with shared bathroom. I'm still in my expensive room but i'll probably move there tomorrow morning. the wuins here are amazing! I think you would really fall in love with them, and since you're brown you wouldn't get crowded by all of the indians.. I went on a walk this morning to check out the sites and they are just breathtaking! I'm trying to take lots of pictures but my battery is dying and i haven't been able to find a power adapter yet. I haven't really looked though. I just barely found a toothbrush and tooth paste!! I'm starting to think I came to india a tad bit un prepared. i mean, i'm doing fine but all the other travelers i see have HUGE backbacks that are just STUFFED with clothes and whatnot. I think I have a new plan though. I'm going to go to puducherry from here then to trichy, then madurai. I guess auroville is some hippy community... i thought i would just pass. well i'll probably write back tomorrow. I get so much done in an hour that time seems to just slowly creep by... I love you

and then this:

mom.today is not going too well. Last night I must have eaten something not so great for me bacause today my stomach hurts! I really panicked when I heard it rumbling this morning. I don't want to get sick in India! Also, last night while I was walking home after dinner, the street dogs started barking at me furociously! I had to turn around about three or four times trying to get away from them! It really scared me... now my stomach isn't feeling well and I don't know what to do!! I just feel so homesick right now.

day 6

I had to giggle when I read about your "close encounters" with the natives. I could just imagine how neat you thought it was until you realized how overwhelming it was to be surrounded by so many people. I hope you are taking lots of photos and that you will be able to share them before you come back home.
Is language not a barrier at all? I realize that English is spoken everywhere, but I also know that not everyone speaks it. It was nice that you met other travelers and was able to spend time with them comparing notes.
While you were off gallivating among the ruins of India, we had to endure the first snowy winter storm. I say I don't like the snow, but I can't help feeling excitement waiting for the snow to hit the valley. You look with anticipation towards the cloud covered mountain peaks wondering how far will the snow make it down the mountain this time. Every storm after, you track winter's snowy progression until you reach the point that you know with all certainty that the next stormy day will bring the flakes flying in the valley. I think that maybe I like snow, I just don't like long winters
I had so much I wanted to say, but I had another 15 hour day at work and have volunteered to come in tomorrow [at 7:00], I am so tired, but I wanted to write a little before I went to bed. I will dream sweet dreams of you

joey wrote:
Mom!!your lagging on the communication and it's putting knots in my stomach! After i wrote, things started feeling a lot better. i had dinner on a roof top reseraunt where two ladies from berlin joined me. They were completely exhausted and sick of the huge crowds so it made me feel better knowing i wasn't the only one. Today i went on what seemed to be a long hike by all the boulders and rock carved temples. So many people are here and I started to get SWARMED by younger indian boys. All wanting pictures of me and wanting to shake my hand. At first it was fun, but after 15 minutes of not being able to move foreward due to the crowd around me... it got a little scary. i finally had to just say goodbye and attempt to run away, but then everyone started to follow me!! they were harmless I'm sure. It was just too much. I've never experienced anything like it before.I'm determined to see the hampi that I came to india to see. so i plan on staying here as long as it takes. right now it cost about 1000 rp for a room but some are saying that prices really drop once this thing is over. which is tomorrow.It's really beautiful here though, i mean the crowds are extremely distracting but i guess i can't really complain. this is their home and their festival. appearantly it's a really big deal. all i can do is patiently wait and hope that once these festivities are over the crowds will ggo home. after hampi, I'm thinking i might head up to Badami... it's a little out of the way and i'd have to backtrack to get where i'm going after but people say it's worth it. If that doesn't work out... i'll probably head to auroville in tamil nadu, i think. those berlinians told me it's really something else.well that's it for now. i miss and love you.

day 5

I'm using your computer since mine is on the fritz [keyboard not working] which really screwed up my Election Day picture since it's really not my photo, it's one dad did, but it is so perfect for today. I needed to vote and didn't think that I would have that much trouble getting away from work, then we had a disaster drill, I lost staff, had to pick up extra patients and ended up with a real emergency which created a backlog of paper work that took until 8:30 to finish up. Long story short, I ended up not getting to vote. For the first time in my adult life, I did not get to exercise my right as an American. I didn't think it would be that big of a deal, but here I am on this momentous day and I don't even get to say I had a part in it. Yep, I was right there for Carter and Ford, but I goofed it up for Obama and McCain. I am so disappointed in myself.

I have been so busy with work that I have not had a chance to explore your recent destinations. I bookmarked a site that concentrated on Hampi but have yet to go and look at it indepth. Can't wait until I can see the pictures that you are taking. Can't wait to see you here at home...

Oh, did you know that Obama won?

joey wrote:
mom! I'm in hampi!this festival is too MASSIVE! i don't think i've ever seen so many people in my life. I had a really nice train ride up here though, very beautiful scenery. I couldn't find the hotel i reserved so i had to waste my money and find another room. everything is booked so i started to panic a little. I'm probably paying twice as much as i should be. i miss you so much! after i sent that last email, things got a lot better. I had a very nice time in Margao. I didn't do much, but walking the streets was an adventure... god, finding my seat on the train was an adventure. this whole trip is really intense. i'm glad i came but i'm truly shaken to my core here. well i should go... i'm probably being charged twice more than i'm thinking for internet access. i love and miss you so incredibly much.please write back soon because i'll go crazy if you don't

and:
mom, i just read your blog and it instantly made me feel better! i'll write back in the next couple of days. i love you!!

day 4

Depressed? Maybe a bit. Using the oldest trick in the mom book - generating feelings of guilt that will send you running home? Hmmm, I don't know...is it working? I hope not.
I decided at the last minute before leaving for work to check my email and there you were. I cannot believe the relief I felt knowing that you had arrived safely. I googled all the places that you spoke of, then oohed and ahhed over all the images that popped up. Now I need to find a map so that I can see exactly where you are on your trip.
"Made in India". Since you left I see india all around me

Joey wrote:
mom!!sorry it took so long to write.I didn't really have a free day until yesterday, and all the little internet cafes were closed.The first few days here have been a little rough... Everything is working out just fine but getting things done is SO HARD! Before coming here I expected to see many western travelers but I have yet to see one. I've been to Mumbai, and two other smaller towns with only a handful of foreign travelers... I thought I would enjoy being one in a few but the truth is, it's very intimidating...i'm handling myself very well though. My flight from Mumbai to Goa was very nice. I got ugraded to first class! I have no idea why, either. Ironically, it saved me a lot of money because they fed me and everything. Once I got to Goa, I took a taxi (which shakes your nervous system to the core) to Benaulim. I stayed in a guest house literally on the beach shore. It was really nice. The beach stretches on forever and you can walk to the different towns.Right now, I'm in Margao. So far, it's one of the busiest places I've seen. It took me about an hour to work up the courage to try and find an internet cafe... Luckily enough it was right above my hotel room!I have to catch a train tomorrow morning at 8. From there I am off to Hospet, which is right next to Hampi. I plan to stay for a while, as I hear it takes a while to see the whole place. I'm really looking foreword to just relaxing in a town for a while. I've been doing nothing but catching plains and taxis.. I haven't had any time to really relax. Well I love you so much and I'm really missing home. I'll try to write as much as possible but don't get too worried if you don't hear from me as much as you'd like. Finding internet access is harder than I thought. I'm optimistic that things will get a little easier as time passes but until then, wish me luck!! I love you!! tell everyone I miss them so much and love them!! I'll try to write in Hampi!!

day 3

Dad won $200 at his poker game, grandma went to church, Jason went to work, Steph took care of the baby and I did absolutely nothing but watch the storm roll in over the mountains.
I should have known the storm was coming, I woke this morning to the hollow sounds of our wind chime dancing and thought how nice it was to awaken to that sound, only to realize that if I was hearing the chimes, it had to be windy and windy in November means COLD. The leaves barely had a chance to turn before they dropped. Was that our autumn? This is what we get, just a hint of autumn, before winter barges in?
I hope that you are basking in the sun and wish that you could somehow share it with us

day 2

Someone asks me when you are leaving and I say you have already left, you left yesterday. Russ asks me where and I say "India". He tells me that his very good friend is from India and his dad works for the, get this, railroad. Russ tells me he has planned and plotted his way through India by rail and dreams that he and his friend can go, but he is married now and has kids and he knows that this is not likely. "I am envious" he says and hearing this, I feel relieved that there are others that shared your dream and you are not just looneycrazymad for wanting to wander so far away.
Kiki wanders. She sits and waits, gets tired of that and lays on your bed. I am not the only one that misses you already