my first three days...

hello all... i made it! a short description of my first three days in bangalore.

leaking fridge, no hot water, a hissing cockroach that lives in my bathroom. about 10 slimy red worms swimming in my toilet. caught in monsoon rain in which two people died. my way to work: try not to fall in the GAPING holes in the sidewalk, under which is about 3-4 feet of space in all directions. who knows what is under there. cross the roundabout with four lanes merging into one, from four different directions. if you don't die, walk across the street into the dump where the family lives. once you pass the naked babies eating garbage, walk under the 'urine bridge' where everyone poos and pees. then cross the street and if you don't die, meet the either four donkeys (yesterday) or the two cows (today) and their poo and pee, and continue to work.

15 blisters on my feet, a cold and very very few smiles from passers by. when someone does smile, though, it is electric and warm and beaming. i am welcome at work and everyone seems shy and curious, but the young women here have embraced me. though i feel like my life is in danger at all times (and i can only imagine what the upcoming monsoon season will bring) i feel lucky that i have two projects lined up for me, both of which are directly relevant to my studies and are exactly what i want to be a part of. the insanity outside is pleasantly balanced with a relaxed and casual working environment.

i have three weekend trips planned already, to Mysore, Mumbai and Goa. i've never felt so defeated and pumped at the same time! i can only imagine what my fellow bloggers are experiencing and can't wait to find out!

joc