Things are definitely getting interesting this week. Elections are on Sunday and the fervor of politics is tising. Impromptu rallies, speeches and marches all over the country. The schools and government offices are all closed until after election is over for security precaution. Travel around the city is very difficult due to rallies spilling into the roads. It is really interesting and exciting to see a country that was in such chaos 10 years ago develop a democracy and struggle with humanitarian issues of governance and leadership. It will be a quiet rest of the week for me. These are what voting ballots look like here. 

One of the many gifts that spending time in Nepal has given me is the gift of small joys. An awareness and purposeful appreciation of moments throughout an otherwise hard day that makes my soul smile. A few examples today have been the feeling of warm water on my skin, a baby’s smile, kind eye contact from a stranger, melted Hershey kisses found in the bottom of a backpack, and stunning Shasta daisies at the market. Oh yeah, and a groaning, rusted convection oven! #it’sthelittlethings

SO exciting! This rusty convection oven is a major upgrade to visits past and I actually made peanut butter blossoms today! It reminded me of my easy bake oven when I was little except this one sounds like it is gonna explode any moment. I can only bake 5 at a time and used foil on the rack. When there is a will there is a way! Thankful for the Hershey kisses I had in the bottom of my backpack! Now, a French press cup of coffee and I’m ready to check final grades for all my courses. #feelingsoaccomplished

This is what making groceries looks like on market day. It’s always a gamble as to whether the eggs will make it home unbroken in the plastic bag! Living on the edge… eggplant, carrots, scallion, fresh bread ( little dusty), cheese & fresh eggs. planB=omelette

I left my apartment early this morning to walk to market about 3 miles away and I ran across this Nepali Women’s Friendship Run. Of course I had to stop and talk with the girls and stay to support! 

Mamas all over the world share a bond that does not require the same language. It is the bond of a loving, protective, sacrificing, mother’s heart. A heart that wants better for our children, a heart that loves them beyond compare. 

I love working with Babita! She is always ready to take on the next challenge! 

It may not seem like much, but it was a major treat for me. It is amazing what one can do with a can of kidney beans, a can of tomatoes, a chili seasoning  pack brought from home, and some nak cheese!  

Great morning at KCM University this morning!