Things I've learned

Things I've learned so far in India:

As Jo says, "The lines are merely suggestions." Seriously, most of you would freak out if we drove in Iowa like they drive here. Little regard for traffic lights and lines, pedestrians cross at their own risk, and enough honking to give you nightmares. We have seen three people on one moped so often I doubt I will ever be phased by seeing two football players run around on one back in Iowa City.

When they say spicy, they mean spicy! Adam and I tried to prepare ourselves for Indian food by going to Indian restaurants beforehand but we quickly found out that you can't really prepare for this. Apparently, Kerala, India is considered the spice capital of the world. And they've earned it. But the food is so good, you just have to fight through the pain!

Rickshaws are more scary (and more fun) than any rollercoaster at Adventureland (and that's saying something!). They are doorless tricycles with a backseat that can hold up to three passengers besides the driver. There are literally so many rickshaws, you don't have to look more than thirty seconds to find an available driver.  They weave in and out of traffic and I can never decided whether to laugh or cry.

People here are so kind. Many people come up to us each day just to say good morning, ask us where we are from, and wish us well. Some even ask for pictures with us (Adam is my arm candy). And while it was startling at first, I feel very welcome in Trivandrum.

-Ryanne

Adam and I ready for the New Year's Eve party!

Jenna getting wrapped in her saree. You can't see it now but workers and bystanders were circling around to watch!

A craftsman at the exhibition sale. This is a hand-carved piece done onto several  slabs of wood. I think he said this one took him 4 days. 

A view from inside a rickshaw. It is hard to get a sense of the traffic here from a picture but hopefully you can see just how close together everyone is and how the lines aren't exactly being followed. 

A new bus from Hewet-Packard to Pallium India. Teams will take this bus out to home visits. It is equipped with some awesome technology and even a shade awning.