Breaking News

I have taken a government-bus (as opposed to a charter or "tourist" one).

I have also take a series of mini-buses... like four, subsequent to said government-bus... in one day.

and I have arrived:

In Dharmsala/Mcleod Ganj (and I am still not quite sure what exactly the difference is...)

I will (likely not) be taking a 6 day meditation course here as originally planned as my rushed email reading caused a significant oversight that most likely cost me my registration. But since I am going with the flow... I say a hearty MEH!

Am I disappointed? You betchya!
Am I totally unsure what I'm gonna do now? You know it!

Am I going to have a great time anyway? UNDOUBTEDLY!

p.s. if I am my more-than-sneaking-suspicion is accurate and I am not in the meditation course I will hit up an Internet-Cafe-Overlooking-the-Snowy-Peaks-of-the-Himalayas again and update you on the adventures in Jammu too! Spoiler alert: it was a great time.

Ja-me. Ja-you. Jammu!

I have arrived by train (after a very life-experiencey-type saga) in Jammu & Kashmir.

I am enjoying the time staying with Banita's family and trying to see some of the sights!

We visited a temple this morning (really early to beat the rush and the funny part was we did... because it wasn't QUITE open yet - but it was lovely to see in the sunrise only about half of the shrines... and I did get to witness and join in on a "Temple Opening Puja Ceremony" (not the official name, I'm sure). Also hit up the Bazaar and found some nice stuff - including some traditional fabric with hand-done stitch work that I'm having made into a suit. Should be awesome!

Today I will be heading out to the Vaishno devi Temple (near Katra at almost 5200 feet) for an all-night walking yantra (or "journey" which is 14km each way) in celebration of the twice annual festival to the goddess.

Here we go!

(and then back in time to sleep... and then catch a bus to Dharmsala/Mcleod Ganj where I think I've been accepted to a Tushita meditation course!)

Moving On

It is with some sadness (yet with some excited anticipation too) that I will be saying good bye to Doon School and Dehradun. I am heading off to Jammu and Kashmir today (April 3rd or "yesterday" in India, as such I am probably already on the train or at my destination).

I am SO excited to go on a vist with Banita to her home! It's going to be wonderful!
I am sure to have more blog posting to do but, again, am not sure what the time will be like for the Internet(s). As such... I will try to post updates when I can but it might be a bit delayed. But that doesn't mean I don't love you.

Unexpected Picture with the Goddess Kali to prove I still love you.