Kathmandu is a crazy town!

I'm serious. There are NO lanes on the streets and the cars, people, motorbikes, scooters and tricycle taxis pass within inches of each other. It's seriously like a roller coaster, only without restraints to keep you safe. Our hotel is quite nice although apparently the power goes out at certain times each day... like first thing in the morning when I need to take a shower! I took one in the dark today. Oh well, if that's the worst that happens, I'll be doing good.

Tonight our group is meeting up for dinner together. It will be the first time most of us meet. So far I have met one other American, one from Ireland, one from UK, one from Hong Kong, and one from Singapore. Oh and one from New Zealand! They are all so nice.

It's monsooning today - well, this afternoon it is. This morning we went to the Monkey Temple. You would have loved it, there were monkeys everywhere! They would even pose for you to take a picture! The baby ones were adorable but I didn't touch them because I don't want rabies! There were lots of beggars all the way up the crazy steep steps to the temple; beggars here are more pitiful and desperate looking than any I have seen in the States. I'm sure they are trying to look their worst but it is very nearly heartbreaking. People here live in such poverty. Many don't even wear shoes. I met a darling little girl named Vilita who wanted to do henna all over me but I didn't have time to sit and let her do it. She jumped under my umbrella in Durbar Square when it was raining so hard and said she wanted to practice her English. so cute!

I had my first real meal today since... Friday? Pizza, Nepali style. That means it takes forever and tastes kind of funny. But they had Coca-Cola in glass bottles so that made up for a lot!! I really haven't wanted to eat but, as mom pointed out, I really need to!

This place is shockingly different from the US and I am sure it will be even more so as we continue on down the road. I'm excited to see what is around the corner, although I miss my comfy bed and hot shower!

I'm going to go do some shopping before dinner! Talk to you soon! Love you all!!

Lindsey