Our day began with a somewhat American breakfast, which included omelette patties on untoasted local bread. We then walked down the steep driveway to the clinic and split into two groups. One group proceeded to garden the area around the clinic. The other group, including us (Mark and Lily), painted the entry and staircases of the facility. After the gardening group finished their work, some local boys asked them to join in in a game of cricket. We continued their work with repainting and sorting the books we donated within the clinic. After a trying few hours of hard work, Lal brought us some more of the delicious breakfast sandwiches and tasty lemonade.
After a quick break, we journeyed to the nearby cricket field. After attempting to teach us the rules, the gardening group left for snacks. With a few local onlookers, we enjoyed a game of cricket. We were sweating profusely, but were having a blast.
Everyone then went back to the house for showers and lunch. We ate a traditional Malayalam meal, which was particularly spicy. After lunch, we were picked up by the rickshaws and taken on a hectic 45 minute ride. The destination was a backwater tour boat. We all climbed into the small boat and headed out into the river. We traveled for about an hour to a christian church where we got to look in on a service. The church was built in 473 AD! We got back in the boat and sailed to a house which belongs to the friend of our guide.
There, we experienced true Kerala hospitality. They served us delectable fried bananas and fresh papaya. We also got to taste the renowned Kerala coffee.
We then returned by boat to the rickshaws which were waiting for us. The rickshaw ride was a crazy race back to the house. It involved our drivers passing at crazy times, almost banging into each other, and the use of the back roads. We got home, showered, and ate a delicious meal. We then practiced our skit for the local school.
Mark & Lily
There, we experienced true Kerala hospitality. They served us delectable fried bananas and fresh papaya. We also got to taste the renowned Kerala coffee.
We then returned by boat to the rickshaws which were waiting for us. The rickshaw ride was a crazy race back to the house. It involved our drivers passing at crazy times, almost banging into each other, and the use of the back roads. We got home, showered, and ate a delicious meal. We then practiced our skit for the local school.
Mark & Lily
Sounds like you all had another full day. I hope you post pictures of the backwater tour. I am also curious to know what the kids at the schools ask you. Thank you as well to the chaperones and Daisy. Sounds like you all are well-fed and cared for!
ReplyDeleteDavid Plotkin
Thanks for the great update! Sounds like you're getting to mix a little business with pleasure now that you are at the Clinic. Wondering if you found the game of cricket to be difficult? Mack & Maya looked to have great batter form and Jeniffer looked ready in the catcher's position but sure its different than baseball. Tell Mack that the Puppy is so mad at him for being gone she's shredded his wallet which he left on the couch in his room. Weather in PDX has been cold and RAINY so enjoy the sun
ReplyDeleteHey Lilly and Mark what a well written informative post. Loved the lunch being described particularly spicey. Full day of service work and fascinating experiences. So grateful to those that opened their home to you and their hospitality. You all look great in the photos. Sounds like Uncle John could be a rickshaw driver. You are all so amazing.
ReplyDeleteGuys this sounds amazing!! I'm so proud of what you all are accomplishing, and I'm thankful that I get to read about it! Yay blogging!
ReplyDeleteMiss you all tons.
<3 Sierra
Nice post. These blogs really inform me of what you all are doing, seeing and experiencing (not to mention eating as well ;-)
ReplyDelete