School Visits

We are now in Pokhara - a city much smaller and calmer than Kathmandu. The traffic is much better, although we still see cows, buffalo, goats, bikes, tractors, rick shaws and many other oddities on the road! We once again have been welcomed by new host families and I am enjoying my relaxing stay with Ratna Man and his wife and son. He owns and runs TOPS academy, a boarding school for all grade levels. His wife has a wonderful garden with all organic produce. She is also a great cook! Needless to say, we are all eating a lot and and can't seem to get enough exercise to make up the difference!

I have visited a number of schools up to this point. Today we visited a government school in Pokhara. The children greeted us in two lines and gave us many smiles and "Namastes"" as we entered. They were so curious and happy. We had tea with the teachers and director and he told us a lot about the school's struggles. Rotary has helped fund the construction of the lower level, but there is still so much that needs to be done. The school has tried hard to bring in local children from poor families. They often provide for the students' uniforms and books if necessary. They especially need help paying teacher salaries and finishing the rooms on the second floor. For $2,000 a room could be finished!

In a few minutes we are going to the Pokhara Rotary Club meeting for a presentation and dinner. At these meetings we share about ourselves, our jobs, our sponsoring rotary clubs, and a little bit about where we come from. It is fun to show pictures and talk to members about our similarities and differences. Everyone we have met has been so friendly and willing to help us out in any way possible.

Although I miss home and my family, friends and work, I am really enjoying this experience. I have learned a lot about the Nepal culture, including ways in which we can all be more peaceful in this often stressful world.

Until later - Becky