Sunday, February 19, 2012

Thottanaval: Vannakam Indiaaaaa.

Arrived in India just under two weeks ago. Could not help but grin from ear to ear as I walked under this welcome sign.
One of the first things encountered soon after my arrival- this baby Krait. My dear cousin Kelli discovered him inside our home. Some other volunteers and I decided to do some research on the Krait and found this passage: "No snake kills with more ruthless efficiency than the many-banded Krait, which dwells in the jungles of India and Southeast Asia. Drop for drop, its venom is the deadliest of any land serpent’s." I still have trouble sleeping.
Why India?  I have always wanted to experience the Indian culture and immediately put it on the itinerary for the four month excursion. Being able to volunteer with Rising Star Outreach is also something I have wanted to do for years.  So, when the two of them worked out I was thrilled. Rising Star Outreach is truly an inspired organization that makes such a difference in this world. More deets to follow . . .
Chengalpattu, the nearest city to where we're situated.
Started off  a great weekend on Saturday by getting up early and vising a local bird sanctuary.
It was huge. And beautiful.
A couple of young school boys identifying different types of storks.
It must have been national field trip day. Or something.  Because there were hundreds of Indian kidlets running everywhere.

Outside of our group, I haven't seen any other Caucasians in the nearby city (let alone our village). Thus, the photos.
Once a month we go visit the beach! (I am getting spoiled here) It was absolutely gorgeous.
Lots of fisherman coming in from a day at sea.
My miniature cousin Kelli and I, soaking up the rays.
The campus pet lamb is caged right next to my bedroom. I like to chase it (he/she?) when the animal caretaker leashes it via rope in our front yard. "Baaa raaaaam ewwwwwwe."
The sunset this evening in Thottanaval.  Our little patch of heaven here in India.

8 comments:

Sister Kamille Amy Clifford said...

ok. i MUST find a way.

Melwel said...

Love the pics....
YOu look like a beautiful giant standing next to your pixie cousin... it's just the angle, or something.
Love you

Natalie said...

looks amazing!

Sarah Hansen said...

ran into your dad at the gym the other day...yeah we talked about you...but only how great you are! you're amazing! and thanks for blogging so i can live vicariously through you!

Unknown said...

Beautiful photos, Brooke. I did one of the boats, too, but it didn't turn out as well as the one you took. I'm glad you're enjoying your experience in India, and more importantly, that I can trust you to keep quiet. :)

Erin Blake said...

Yes.

Jocelyn said...

gahhhhh. Why am I not with you?!

Unknown said...

great photos Brookles.

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