I woke up in the common room this morning at the master guest house and had about 4 hours to collect my thoughts and all my stuff! It was actually very relaxing and peaceful to have this time to “organize” my life.
It took me the better part of an hour to get to the airport, which is interesting as it is said to be only 15 km from the guest house! I tried to get my flight pattern changed so that I don’t have the 20 hour layover in London. I was excited to check out the city on my way back but now kind of want to get home and settled before another work week in the office But I was unable to secure a booking change due to “the ticket”…that is the information that I received! But when I checked upstairs I asked to have my baggage picked up in London in the event that the carrier in London will be able to place me on an earlier flight…fingers crossed! If not I will be hopefully connecting with someone who has blindly agreed to meet me and show me the city in 5 hours…the quick tour…I seem to have one of these in each city!
The past two weeks has been quite the experience and I have been so fortunate to have met such a wonderful group of individuals (both independent travelers and NGO representatives) in India, their presence definitely shaped my trip into the memory that it is. I thank each one of them from the bottom of my heart that has traveled with me in mind throughout India and I am fortunate to call them my friends. Your help and concern throughout my travels and agenda is truly appreciated. When you have the opportunity to visit my country I am happy to be able to provide you with the same hospitality.
On top of all the amazing opportunities for L.I.B., I have gained a lot personally in this journey to India. It has most definitely been an emotional rollercoaster but in that I have gained a new strength and a sense of clarity in my life…getting me one step closer to figuring “it” all out! I am recharged and focused and want to start the next chapter of my life!
One last sentimental thing…I just wanted to send a warm thanks to all of those who have inspired me to continue with this journey and for all the communication that I have had with those along the way. It has been a very cool touch of home. I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be here in my life without all of you who has touched my life in one way or another.
OK…now back to business…haha! L.I.B., being the new born that it is, has a lot of work to do in 2010. To start with we need to narrow our focus of aid provided to India and develop our campaign. We need to immediately start a fundraiser to start the import of fair traded items (yeah Reuben Kincaids…wink wink nod nod) in time for festival season, develop the 2010 plan from the board of directors and continue with the development of the partnerships in India. If anyone is interested in committing to volunteering their time to help further our agenda please let me know…there is going to be a lot of cool projects. Let me know where you would like to jump in and at what capacity via email to heatherhild@hotmail.com.
2009 was a year of discovery. 2010 is a year of possibilities.
Cheers!
Heather
Saturday, December 19, 2009
bitter ending or sweet beginning?
Last day in Dehli...India:) I am just starting to feel good again and feel that that I could take on another few weeks here…but duty calls at home and I must return! And of course I miss my friends and family…the true supporters of my life’s aspirations, dreams and happiness.
But I could not leave with out meeting with another NGO, Joining Hands. I was very inspired and happy to have met with this devoted and strong group of women. Their mission is to promote volunteerism locally and internationally. Currently they have 45 partner NGO’s to which they recruit, motivate, orientate and place volunteer. This is an amazing partnership as L.I.B now has a reliable, friendly and trusted source to direct people who are interested in volunteering and contributing to international development while traveling and experiencing a beautiful culture by working with local people. The best part of this program with Joining Hands is that they will work to place each volunteer in a matching environment and project. They are also in constant contact with international volunteers before, during and after their stay in India.
After the meeting I was able to meet up again with a representative from Concern for Humanity. Amit was kind enough to devote an afternoon of sightseeing with me in Delhi. It was amazing as we were able to visit the India Gate (a memorial of the soldiers lost in India), the Delhi Heart Market (an eclectic array of artisans from all over India), the Lotus Temple (The Bahai philosophy revolves around universal peace and the elimination of prejudice) and the Qutub Minar (the most famous structure on grounds, this 72.5 meter minaret was the tallest “skyscraper” in the world when built (1193-1368).
Cheers! After an afternoon of traffic, lines, and the sun Amit and I retreated to an urban resto-bar for a local beer and snack. Lucky for us it was Happy Hour and we got two for one bottles of beer! This also gave us another opportunity to discuss the partnership with L.I.B. and Concern for Humanity. Both organizations have a lot that we can benefit from each other and equal opportunity if you will.
As the sun went down in Delhi I was dropped off at a highly recommended spa. I know it is super selfish for this trip, but I thought think my body has been through a lot of trauma, from varying temperatures, to carrying my 70 pound bags (collectively) to sleeping in planes, trains and automobiles (well not really trains, but thought the reference was cool) to waking up at 5am most mornings to make schedules work!
With the inclusion of a few additional random sightings such as the “puke express” and tasting “sharp yogurt” (I promised I would include this somewhere) I think that my stay in Delhi was a perfect way to end my first stay in India!
But I could not leave with out meeting with another NGO, Joining Hands. I was very inspired and happy to have met with this devoted and strong group of women. Their mission is to promote volunteerism locally and internationally. Currently they have 45 partner NGO’s to which they recruit, motivate, orientate and place volunteer. This is an amazing partnership as L.I.B now has a reliable, friendly and trusted source to direct people who are interested in volunteering and contributing to international development while traveling and experiencing a beautiful culture by working with local people. The best part of this program with Joining Hands is that they will work to place each volunteer in a matching environment and project. They are also in constant contact with international volunteers before, during and after their stay in India.
After the meeting I was able to meet up again with a representative from Concern for Humanity. Amit was kind enough to devote an afternoon of sightseeing with me in Delhi. It was amazing as we were able to visit the India Gate (a memorial of the soldiers lost in India), the Delhi Heart Market (an eclectic array of artisans from all over India), the Lotus Temple (The Bahai philosophy revolves around universal peace and the elimination of prejudice) and the Qutub Minar (the most famous structure on grounds, this 72.5 meter minaret was the tallest “skyscraper” in the world when built (1193-1368).
Cheers! After an afternoon of traffic, lines, and the sun Amit and I retreated to an urban resto-bar for a local beer and snack. Lucky for us it was Happy Hour and we got two for one bottles of beer! This also gave us another opportunity to discuss the partnership with L.I.B. and Concern for Humanity. Both organizations have a lot that we can benefit from each other and equal opportunity if you will.
As the sun went down in Delhi I was dropped off at a highly recommended spa. I know it is super selfish for this trip, but I thought think my body has been through a lot of trauma, from varying temperatures, to carrying my 70 pound bags (collectively) to sleeping in planes, trains and automobiles (well not really trains, but thought the reference was cool) to waking up at 5am most mornings to make schedules work!
With the inclusion of a few additional random sightings such as the “puke express” and tasting “sharp yogurt” (I promised I would include this somewhere) I think that my stay in Delhi was a perfect way to end my first stay in India!
Celebrations of Humanity
The night of Losar was one of celebration for all the Ladakhi people and Leh came alive with blazing fires, buckets of gasoline, drumming, chanting, dancing, fireworks and fire balls flying (literally) in the streets. Martin and I were picked up by a local guide who took us up to the top of the palace. It was a breathless sight as all the monasteries on the surrounding mountainsides lit hundreds of candles in celebration of Losar, the Buddhist New Year. At the top of the palace there was a group of 15-20 young boys who we drumming, chanting and dancing around the fire. Excitement and happiness filled the bitter cold evening as hugs were exchanges (I love hugs…have I mentioned that) people walking hand in hand, fathers holding their boys hands and an overall Buddhist love and calmness came over the crowd in amongst all the dangerous fiery chaos. We were able to follow the crowd down the rocky dark paths in between houses and into the main Bazzar for further celebration. At this time someone added to the music delight with a Indian flute and people were literally spinning in circles and running down the main street of Leh with balls of cloth doused in gas and lit on fire…super crazy!
The celebrations ended around 8:00pm and we headed back to the hotel. I was so cold and still not feeling well that I curled up in the fetal position wrapped up in a blanket next to the propane heater…and passed out! I think I woke up and made it to the bed around midnight.
After two days of trying the ATM’s, random stores that typically put money against credit cards my friend, Martin, and I had to pool our money together to get out of Leh. We went as far as changing all the bills that we had in other currency’s (including the Swiss, Canadian, US and English). We were in the clear arriving to the airport, however when I went to check into the flight (noting that there is only one flight and out of Leh per day) there seemed to be a problem. I am still unsure what actually happened…but when I changed my flight information with www.makemytrip.com they did not complete the process on the air carrier end. So they emailed me my ticket information but the computers in the airport did not show this change! I had to pay an extra 1100rupies…this plane ticket is starting to add up! We tried to explain that we had no rupies left to pay for the additional fair and at first they would’t take USD…some how it all worked out and we made it on the flight! It is super interesting being in a foreign place and having to confine to their security and regulations.
Once we got to Delhi, we headed to the Master Guest House…which really is an oasis inside this bustling city. After enjoying a pizza up on the roof top patio we headed into South Delhi to meet with the NGO Concern for Humanity. I am very fortunate to have met this organization. There passion for their projects is energetic and contagious! We met them at their office and then they were kind enough to bring us to the “Delhi slums” and visit their project sites. It is interesting as I have now visited 3 major cities in India along with their slum areas, and they vary and range in intensity. The Delhi slums appeared to be a temporary village, with some form of housing structures.
In the middle of the slums, Concern for Humanity has opened a school that provides additional education and support to children after regular school. It is to provide the extra education to the children who have not developed to the degree of education based on their age. In public schools it is mandatory to pass each child to the next grade regardless of the level of education obtained until grade 5. This is a huge problem for the children that are not developing at a fundamental rate before grade 5. After this each child is required to write an exam to continue their education in the school system and the possibilities of failing or dropping out are far greater for these challenged kids. With the additional help of the education and support provided to the underprivileged children at the Concern for Humanity facility this percentage decreases.
To date concern for humanity has 4 schools open, 2 in the slum area of…and 2 in a neighbouring village. To put things into perspective, one of these education facilities has an estimated cost of $1700 Canadian dollars, this includes the teacher’s salary (which is approximately $50CND/month), the rent of a school (which is preferred to purchasing a building as there is always the possibility of having the building demolished in a slum area) and some school aid and supplies.
We visited two schools to see this amazing program first hand; we met some of the precious children enrolled in the program as well as the teacher. There were some very interesting stories and bright beautiful children.
I have found with meeting all the NGO’s in India along my path have been focused to some degree on education and the biggest issue they are faced with is the enrollment of the children, due to the lack of family support/promotion, religion, traditional views, child marriages (even though they are illegal) and/or the dependence on child labour.
We ended our meeting at a traditional south Indian restaurant with a snack and a yogurt drink (to which I am told is a no-no to drink after 5pm!). I am still not feeling very well and have not eaten much in the past 48 hours…with the exception of chocolate and pizza…I gave the full college try but could not finish my portion of the delights.
After the meeting wrapped up Martin and I headed into the craziness of Connaught place. We went to the underground market…which is a cool as it sounds. Here we could get everything we needed…a new phone card, minutes, charger (yes I lost it already), money (FINALLY).
And then I was blessed to have a nights stay at the Master Gust House in the mediation room…relishing in the spirituality and peace that surrounded me.
The celebrations ended around 8:00pm and we headed back to the hotel. I was so cold and still not feeling well that I curled up in the fetal position wrapped up in a blanket next to the propane heater…and passed out! I think I woke up and made it to the bed around midnight.
After two days of trying the ATM’s, random stores that typically put money against credit cards my friend, Martin, and I had to pool our money together to get out of Leh. We went as far as changing all the bills that we had in other currency’s (including the Swiss, Canadian, US and English). We were in the clear arriving to the airport, however when I went to check into the flight (noting that there is only one flight and out of Leh per day) there seemed to be a problem. I am still unsure what actually happened…but when I changed my flight information with www.makemytrip.com they did not complete the process on the air carrier end. So they emailed me my ticket information but the computers in the airport did not show this change! I had to pay an extra 1100rupies…this plane ticket is starting to add up! We tried to explain that we had no rupies left to pay for the additional fair and at first they would’t take USD…some how it all worked out and we made it on the flight! It is super interesting being in a foreign place and having to confine to their security and regulations.
Once we got to Delhi, we headed to the Master Guest House…which really is an oasis inside this bustling city. After enjoying a pizza up on the roof top patio we headed into South Delhi to meet with the NGO Concern for Humanity. I am very fortunate to have met this organization. There passion for their projects is energetic and contagious! We met them at their office and then they were kind enough to bring us to the “Delhi slums” and visit their project sites. It is interesting as I have now visited 3 major cities in India along with their slum areas, and they vary and range in intensity. The Delhi slums appeared to be a temporary village, with some form of housing structures.
In the middle of the slums, Concern for Humanity has opened a school that provides additional education and support to children after regular school. It is to provide the extra education to the children who have not developed to the degree of education based on their age. In public schools it is mandatory to pass each child to the next grade regardless of the level of education obtained until grade 5. This is a huge problem for the children that are not developing at a fundamental rate before grade 5. After this each child is required to write an exam to continue their education in the school system and the possibilities of failing or dropping out are far greater for these challenged kids. With the additional help of the education and support provided to the underprivileged children at the Concern for Humanity facility this percentage decreases.
To date concern for humanity has 4 schools open, 2 in the slum area of…and 2 in a neighbouring village. To put things into perspective, one of these education facilities has an estimated cost of $1700 Canadian dollars, this includes the teacher’s salary (which is approximately $50CND/month), the rent of a school (which is preferred to purchasing a building as there is always the possibility of having the building demolished in a slum area) and some school aid and supplies.
We visited two schools to see this amazing program first hand; we met some of the precious children enrolled in the program as well as the teacher. There were some very interesting stories and bright beautiful children.
I have found with meeting all the NGO’s in India along my path have been focused to some degree on education and the biggest issue they are faced with is the enrollment of the children, due to the lack of family support/promotion, religion, traditional views, child marriages (even though they are illegal) and/or the dependence on child labour.
We ended our meeting at a traditional south Indian restaurant with a snack and a yogurt drink (to which I am told is a no-no to drink after 5pm!). I am still not feeling very well and have not eaten much in the past 48 hours…with the exception of chocolate and pizza…I gave the full college try but could not finish my portion of the delights.
After the meeting wrapped up Martin and I headed into the craziness of Connaught place. We went to the underground market…which is a cool as it sounds. Here we could get everything we needed…a new phone card, minutes, charger (yes I lost it already), money (FINALLY).
And then I was blessed to have a nights stay at the Master Gust House in the mediation room…relishing in the spirituality and peace that surrounded me.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
the truth comes forward...
This is going to be a little longer than normal…because there was no internet yesterday and also because a lot has happened in the past two days and also because you know how long winded I can be in my writing!! Don’t say I didn’t warn you:)
It is truly a different world up here…and even though they have been touched by modernization/globalization you still feel the core belief system of this community. Just today I learnt of the “butter system.” This is when one family has a surplus of any one item, may it be butter, vegetables, ect. they share it with their neighbours. This generosity and wealth is returned when another person gives out their item of surplus to the neighbours and so on. I also asked today if there was a hunger/poverty issue here in Ladakh area and the answer was no, due to the fact that the community takes care of it members. There is still of course different classes in the society due primarily to the economic growth here is the past years.
One of the reasons that I came up to Leh is because I wrote a small paper on the community and the negative effects globalization has had on it. There is a lady by the name of Helena who produced a documentary called Ancient Features. I was shocked to learn yesterday that this woman is not completely favoured by the Ladakhi people. She is actually the opposite. I was talking with a community member and she had a very negative view of this ‘westerner’. Some people in the community believe that because Helena is a western that she should be respected. But to my understanding she is trying to capsulate the heritage here (noting that it is not ever hers) that she would like the community to not progress with the developing world! Apparently she is not accountable to an uncounted amount of donation money and is the ‘controlling western force’ that is damaging to other NGO’s and western support systems.
Leh is a true definition of a community that lives from the wealth of the land. They live within their means be it that they have restrictions on the hours a day electricity is available, the months of the year running water is available ect. It is true that they have developed into a global community through tourism and trade. They have cell phones, tv/dvd, imported items from around the world ect. There are only 2 ATMS in this town…one of which is chronically broken and the other has a line up at any given time of at least 20 people (and could take up to 2-3 hours to get through – standing in -20+ weather). I stood in line twice yesterday for 30-45 minutes each time and didn’t even move! So I woke up bright and early this morning to ‘beat the rush’ and made it into town on foot by 8:00am…only to find out that it will not open until 10am. Nothing in this town opens before 10am! I am getting a little worried…but I am going to try again tonight after 6pm – wish me luck!
With the growing demands of modernization/globalization they recognize the limits the earth has to sustain their community. In 30-50 years the community of Leh and the surrounding areas will be challenged to survive due to the ever rising issue of water supply.
I had the most interesting day yesterday…and today was no less! I am so thankful that I crossed paths with my new friend. It is amazing the opportunities I have had on this trip and I am somewhat thankful that I was on my own (given the other option) as I would not have opened myself to the people I have met along the way…it’s my own little Canterbury Tail. And I have learnt so much from each person.
Over dinner on my first night in Leh, I found out that my friend is meeting with a NGO that was on my “hit list” so I was able to meet the executive director of the Leh Nutrition Project. They work in many social areas such as education, health, child protection, food and water supple.
The project that I am very interested in working with is the development of the artificial glaciers. An engineer by the name of Chhewang Norphel designed an artificial glacier system that is able to provide water to a community from the early months of April/May each year. Without this water communities are not able to harvest their crops in time leading to a food supply issue – leading to poor health – leading to financial instability - leading to lack of education opportunities.
To date they have built 9 glaciers with only 6 working at this time. I am interested in working with this project as it aligns with the core beliefs in LIB’s community development efforts, such as; community ownership of project, development of basic human needs, protection of environment, ‘green’ developments, child protection, health and education. I am super charged by this opportunity as I believe there might be the possibility to being a team of people over here to actually build the project. Apparently a project takes approximately 25 days to complete, most of this is excavation (redirecting the water to the new glacier where it is stored in ice form until the spring.
Two people from the community are elected to manage the glacier each year. Today I went with my friend to see the project. We first stopped at one of the managers home to have the welcoming tea…I am all of a sudden in love with Chi tea! We were also offered biscuits, cookies other deep fried stuff. There is so much food every place that we stop! After tea we started the trek up to the glacier…it sits about 12000 feet above sea level and took about half hour to get to from the base. It was amazing to experience! After we came back down from the glacier we stopped at the other managers home for tea…and deep fried ‘things.” After that stopped again at the first family’s home for lunch, I am so full, as every time I stop somewhere we get tea and some form of food.
I have now consecutively worn the same 13 pieces of clothing for the past 3 days (16 if you want to include the 2 scarves and a hat of some sort!! I washed some basic necessities last night in water that brings a whole new meeting to the cold cycle. I dried the articles by my propane ‘fireplace’! What can I say it worked!
Apparently Brad Pitt has been in my bed…haha! Just joking I am not sure if he was actually in my room…but he stayed in this hotel two years ago while filming!
Tomorrow Losar (Buddhist new year) starts! Looking forward to experiencing the dancing, music, lights and other fun stuff in the city. I then fly out to Dehli for 2 nights and 4 meetings…then I start the trek back home.
Sending warm thoughts and love your way.
Heather
Sunday, December 13, 2009
expect the unexpected...
The place I am staying at is so wonderful...last night before I went to bed they brought me a hot water bottle that actually stayed warm until this morning. I was able to schedule when they deliver my hot water for "bath time" in the morning as well as my breakfast! So at 8am this morning my bucket of hot water was delivered. I have never experienced this type of bathing so it was a little trial and error...haha! After the 'bath' I dried my hair by the propane heater in my room...it took a good 45 minutes. But I knew that I would be out in the cold again and worth it.
At 9am they brought me breakfast...haha! the first time I have had breakfast in bed:) It was awesome. I looked out the window and it was snowing...at first thought I was a little nervous that I would not be warm enough...but then I remembered that it is actually warmer with the snow.
I had to meet my new friend at his hotel which was a good 15 minute walk from mine. We got so lost last night as it was totally dark and no street lights, but I was able to find my way this morning. It seems that he is the only person in his hotel and I in mine...very few visitors up here at this time of year! A local contact of his picked us up and headed out of the city to two very special monasteries. There was literally no one else at the monasteries this time, so we had a special opportunity to meet the monks and enjoy a cup of butter tea with them in the kitchen of the monastery...how cool is that. But I would have to say butter tea is not that cool...for my taste buds. It literally tastes like you are drinking melted butter...but it is good for you in the tough winter conditions, keeps your skin moist?
After the last monastery visit we went to the locals family house for tea, biscuits, cake and then a rice lunch. Wow...it was unbelievable! The lunch was rice and dried apricots...yummy! We visited with the family for over an hour and then returned to town.
I have decided to stay on in Leh to experience the start of their New Year celebration. Apparently on December 16th they have the lighting of candles all over town up the mountain and everywhere, I think it is going to be an experience of a life time. We are also able to hang out with some locals that will guide us through the evenings events.
Tomorrow I have the great pleasure in joining my friend on a trip out to the artificial glaciers of Ladakh. The non-government organization - Leh Nutrition Project - is part of this project. They were one of the original NGO's on my hit list, so this is exciting that I have the ability to talk with them tomorrow.
Until the next time
Smiles and Hugs
Heather
Saturday, December 12, 2009
thank goodness for legwarmers...
haha...who would have thought that legwarmers would bring me such joy! I arrived at the airport in Delhi this morning at 4pm. I have not slept since I got here between the early morning wake up to filling my day to the max with things...I passed out in the car all the way to Delhi...I think my eyes opened when we stopped to get gas. The driver was very safe and reliable.
I jumped on the plane to Leh and arrived here safe and sound this morning at 9am. It apparently is -20. People were warning me about the temp being 0 degrees and I was prepared for that...I was not or am I now prepared for -20 with no electricity or running water. But the legwarmers have added an extra layer of clothing for me! Everything closes up here in the winter time...I am told that I will have no problems with crowds at monuments and the picture taking is perfect! haha!
So to get here we flew between massive mountain terrains...it was a little nerving as we got closer to the ground but still surrounded by mountains...I was wondering if there was even a runway to land on...yikes! but the beauty of this area is phenomenal...I would love to visit during the summer months where there are hikes and treks available. When I walked out of the airport it was like time stopped...every one turned to look at me and just stared...awk-ward:) But I soon got in the taxi and headed to my mountain oasis.
The hotel reception was dark and cold...but the family run estate is charming. The father greeted me and showed me to my room...it is a beautiful building! My room was bright, clean, warm and cozy - with a spectacular mountain view. 15 minutes later I was brought coffee with warm milk and biscuits. There is a heater in my room, but the electricity and water only runs from 5-10pm! If I want a shower one of the staff will bring me a bucket full of warm water...that is all I have for the next 3 days! haha! Most of the Ladakh area lies above 3000m and visitors may suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness...everyone I meet is telling me to rest and lay down...I am for sure feeling the head ache from it all...but mostly just freakn cold!
I went walking in the markets this afternoon and kind of got lost into the streets of Leh...but I came across a young man 29 years of age who was selling the Buddhist prayer flags...Apparently it is the start of the new year celebration here. He was very interested in having a "western" friend. He insisted that I sit down in his shop and rest as I might get sick:) He ordered some tea and we sat and talked over a warm cup of tea! He later invited me to have dinner with his family sometime during my stay, I am considering this for tomorrow night, with of course transportation from my hostel.
There was another foreigner on the plane and I just ran into him in the market, so being that we are probably the only visitors here at this time, we are meeting on the street corner of chaos and freezing for dinner. He has been here before and is more prepared for this weather...he is here on a photography assignment. I am looking forward to relaxing tonight and catching up on some much needed work and then sleep:)
I look forward to visiting the women's group tomorrow and put life to the paper I wrote on Ladakh last year during my studies at Mount Royal.
Now I am the same temperature and relate to the Canada folk:) My fingers are starting to thaw just in time to head back out side.
until next time...hugs!
Heather
I jumped on the plane to Leh and arrived here safe and sound this morning at 9am. It apparently is -20. People were warning me about the temp being 0 degrees and I was prepared for that...I was not or am I now prepared for -20 with no electricity or running water. But the legwarmers have added an extra layer of clothing for me! Everything closes up here in the winter time...I am told that I will have no problems with crowds at monuments and the picture taking is perfect! haha!
So to get here we flew between massive mountain terrains...it was a little nerving as we got closer to the ground but still surrounded by mountains...I was wondering if there was even a runway to land on...yikes! but the beauty of this area is phenomenal...I would love to visit during the summer months where there are hikes and treks available. When I walked out of the airport it was like time stopped...every one turned to look at me and just stared...awk-ward:) But I soon got in the taxi and headed to my mountain oasis.
The hotel reception was dark and cold...but the family run estate is charming. The father greeted me and showed me to my room...it is a beautiful building! My room was bright, clean, warm and cozy - with a spectacular mountain view. 15 minutes later I was brought coffee with warm milk and biscuits. There is a heater in my room, but the electricity and water only runs from 5-10pm! If I want a shower one of the staff will bring me a bucket full of warm water...that is all I have for the next 3 days! haha! Most of the Ladakh area lies above 3000m and visitors may suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness...everyone I meet is telling me to rest and lay down...I am for sure feeling the head ache from it all...but mostly just freakn cold!
I went walking in the markets this afternoon and kind of got lost into the streets of Leh...but I came across a young man 29 years of age who was selling the Buddhist prayer flags...Apparently it is the start of the new year celebration here. He was very interested in having a "western" friend. He insisted that I sit down in his shop and rest as I might get sick:) He ordered some tea and we sat and talked over a warm cup of tea! He later invited me to have dinner with his family sometime during my stay, I am considering this for tomorrow night, with of course transportation from my hostel.
There was another foreigner on the plane and I just ran into him in the market, so being that we are probably the only visitors here at this time, we are meeting on the street corner of chaos and freezing for dinner. He has been here before and is more prepared for this weather...he is here on a photography assignment. I am looking forward to relaxing tonight and catching up on some much needed work and then sleep:)
I look forward to visiting the women's group tomorrow and put life to the paper I wrote on Ladakh last year during my studies at Mount Royal.
Now I am the same temperature and relate to the Canada folk:) My fingers are starting to thaw just in time to head back out side.
until next time...hugs!
Heather
Friday, December 11, 2009
the power of a smile...
Today was very long...but super amazing! I started out with a masala omelet...you can get everything here in the masala flavour!
I caught a bike to the Agra Fort. I always feel so bad when I get on the peddle bike rickshaw...cause the poor men have to carry my heavy Canadian butt all over. But every morning I wake up the same guy is outside the hostel wanting to take me so today I did! He had to get off his bike and walk at one point cause the hill was too steep! The fort claims to be the most amazing in India and it truly lives up to its reputation! It was stunning. The story behind it is bitter sweet. The man who built the Taj for the love of his life (to which I thought was so romantic until I found out that he in fact had 14 wives!) died in the Agra Fort prison that his son placed him in to gain power...with the view of the Taj...awe.
After the Fort I came back to the hotel and had to check out...I am not homeless in India...haha! This hostel has been amazing though...they have stored my luggage all day and now I am just chilln out waiting to take my midnight 5 hour drive from Agra to Delhi! I should arrive in Delhi at 5am to catch my flight to Leh.
The Indian Dream Foundation sent a car to the hostel to pick me up and head out into the slums of Agra. Here I visited one of the schools that they have developed. It was the most amazing experience ever. I went into the school and met the teachers who are doing the most amazing job - they show up everyday for these kids with a 3000 rupi monthly salary (approximately $75 Canadian)! The kids were doing their lessons in song...so I got down on the floor and joined in...it was super cool cause all the kids took turns at the front of the class leading the song. The smiles in this class room are enough to brighten up the future:) I wanted to hug them all!
From here I went further into the community to talk with the locals. I asked them what they needed to improve the conditions and if they are accepting to change...and the answer in short is awareness and education. They are accepting and wanting the change!
I also talked with a local bracelet maker. She makes one bracelet for 5 rupies (12 cents Canadian)...it takes her about 2 hours...and the people who buy it from her sell it for 1500 rupies ($35 Canadian)...this is not fair at all. But these are the people I am looking for to create a market in Canada and give them a fair value for their work. Gayle, I think our dream of the children's art work can come true very soon :)
When I was walking through the village (aka the slum area of Agra) there was a swarm of loud, cheerful and playful children walking with us...like 30 of them. They all wanted to hold my had and just to say hi...so I did...this is the interaction I am wanting to give people of the world:)
From there we picked up the Government offical that oversees this district of schools and went for lunch...I had a Dosa...you my have guessed it was masala style! We had a chance to talk about the relationship that the governement has with working NGO's in this area and they are accepting of the relationship. I also learned that they are promoting free education for all. but the problem they have is getting the kids there...they are working to educate the parents with the benefits of child education vs. child labour.
I visited some other schools in rural areas of Agra. The Indian Dream Foundation is doing amazing work in connection with the Indian School Board. I am happy to have met two wonderful people and now friends!
It has been another amazing day! My head is spinning and need to really start the focus on what it is the LIB can contribute to. At the moment I am super hungry and going to check out a restaurant near by...apparently there is music and games...hopefully I can find a friend to play with...haha!
xoxo...heather
I caught a bike to the Agra Fort. I always feel so bad when I get on the peddle bike rickshaw...cause the poor men have to carry my heavy Canadian butt all over. But every morning I wake up the same guy is outside the hostel wanting to take me so today I did! He had to get off his bike and walk at one point cause the hill was too steep! The fort claims to be the most amazing in India and it truly lives up to its reputation! It was stunning. The story behind it is bitter sweet. The man who built the Taj for the love of his life (to which I thought was so romantic until I found out that he in fact had 14 wives!) died in the Agra Fort prison that his son placed him in to gain power...with the view of the Taj...awe.
After the Fort I came back to the hotel and had to check out...I am not homeless in India...haha! This hostel has been amazing though...they have stored my luggage all day and now I am just chilln out waiting to take my midnight 5 hour drive from Agra to Delhi! I should arrive in Delhi at 5am to catch my flight to Leh.
The Indian Dream Foundation sent a car to the hostel to pick me up and head out into the slums of Agra. Here I visited one of the schools that they have developed. It was the most amazing experience ever. I went into the school and met the teachers who are doing the most amazing job - they show up everyday for these kids with a 3000 rupi monthly salary (approximately $75 Canadian)! The kids were doing their lessons in song...so I got down on the floor and joined in...it was super cool cause all the kids took turns at the front of the class leading the song. The smiles in this class room are enough to brighten up the future:) I wanted to hug them all!
From here I went further into the community to talk with the locals. I asked them what they needed to improve the conditions and if they are accepting to change...and the answer in short is awareness and education. They are accepting and wanting the change!
I also talked with a local bracelet maker. She makes one bracelet for 5 rupies (12 cents Canadian)...it takes her about 2 hours...and the people who buy it from her sell it for 1500 rupies ($35 Canadian)...this is not fair at all. But these are the people I am looking for to create a market in Canada and give them a fair value for their work. Gayle, I think our dream of the children's art work can come true very soon :)
When I was walking through the village (aka the slum area of Agra) there was a swarm of loud, cheerful and playful children walking with us...like 30 of them. They all wanted to hold my had and just to say hi...so I did...this is the interaction I am wanting to give people of the world:)
From there we picked up the Government offical that oversees this district of schools and went for lunch...I had a Dosa...you my have guessed it was masala style! We had a chance to talk about the relationship that the governement has with working NGO's in this area and they are accepting of the relationship. I also learned that they are promoting free education for all. but the problem they have is getting the kids there...they are working to educate the parents with the benefits of child education vs. child labour.
I visited some other schools in rural areas of Agra. The Indian Dream Foundation is doing amazing work in connection with the Indian School Board. I am happy to have met two wonderful people and now friends!
It has been another amazing day! My head is spinning and need to really start the focus on what it is the LIB can contribute to. At the moment I am super hungry and going to check out a restaurant near by...apparently there is music and games...hopefully I can find a friend to play with...haha!
xoxo...heather
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Don"t Judge a Book by Its Cover
I seems that when I arrive to a new town, I am very unsettled. I am not sure of my surroundings and it kind of freaks me out:) (sorry mom!) But then I spend some time, meet some people and truly find the unique gift of life in each are. In Agra, on the first day that I was here I went for a walk out side the hostel and made it about 20 minutes down the road and came back. The people I found are more aggressive than in Mumbai. Not in an unsafe way but in a 'sales guy/rip of the tourist way). I was very closed in the opportunities to meet people and judged every bit of honest.
My hostel room is interesting (yes I use that word in many connotations...good bad and the unexplainable...haha!) For the first time I felt that I had to wear my sandals in the shower, the walls are crumbling and you can hear everything from depths and heights of the building. But it does have the second rated most beautiful view of the Taj Mahal. To which I chilled with a beer and my pen and paper for some time over my stay here.
I woke up at 5am to get in line to see the sunrise over the Taj Mahal. It was an 'interesting' process. First I should start the day with seeing camels walk down the street outside my hostel! Yeah very cool...they emerged from the smoky mist and just walked on down the streets passing the cows, goats, and dogs everywhere! So in line to get my ticket, there was a mens line and a womens line...yepper...and they still use it! The most interesting thing here is that they didn't even acknowledge the women...I had o give my money to a guy in the other line. Even going into the Taj there was separate lines with pat down security...that was in-ter-esting! they used the full meaning of the term pat...and it was hard and all over the bod, no inch untouched! As you can imagine the Taj Mahal was amazing and differently lives up to "one of the seven wonders of the world"! Pictures to come.
I met with the Indian Dreams Foundation yesterday and they submerged me into Indian culture with lunch in a off the track in the basement kind of 'interesting" kind of place. But the most Delicious food ever! I have a very great connection with this NGO. Their main focus is education for all. He is a young guy - 33 - with a lot of passion and dreams. We have a lot in common in our social agenda but also personally. He also has an advertising agency here in Agra! I am heading out to the slum areas today with him to see his existing schools, meet some government officials and talk to some locals. I can't believe the opportunities that I have been given. Those all aboard L.I.B. Internationals train - it is going to be a bumpy ride but exciting and hopeful!
I have to run at the moment...but will post some pictures and tell you all the other stuff I learn today.
Oh yeh...but before I forget...the best day ever yesterday...I went to a local shop with my new best friend and was given lessons on the Tabala! yeah it was so amazing! then he took me to his families workshop of marble masterpices...amazing...where I learnt all about the process and have gained a whole new respect! Then I went to a late night movie with him and say the bollywood hit PAAA...i was mostly in Hindi..but the odd word in English...but it was great to have a translator with me:) haha...this all wrapped up at 1am...
cheers:) xoxoxo...miss you all!
My hostel room is interesting (yes I use that word in many connotations...good bad and the unexplainable...haha!) For the first time I felt that I had to wear my sandals in the shower, the walls are crumbling and you can hear everything from depths and heights of the building. But it does have the second rated most beautiful view of the Taj Mahal. To which I chilled with a beer and my pen and paper for some time over my stay here.
I woke up at 5am to get in line to see the sunrise over the Taj Mahal. It was an 'interesting' process. First I should start the day with seeing camels walk down the street outside my hostel! Yeah very cool...they emerged from the smoky mist and just walked on down the streets passing the cows, goats, and dogs everywhere! So in line to get my ticket, there was a mens line and a womens line...yepper...and they still use it! The most interesting thing here is that they didn't even acknowledge the women...I had o give my money to a guy in the other line. Even going into the Taj there was separate lines with pat down security...that was in-ter-esting! they used the full meaning of the term pat...and it was hard and all over the bod, no inch untouched! As you can imagine the Taj Mahal was amazing and differently lives up to "one of the seven wonders of the world"! Pictures to come.
I met with the Indian Dreams Foundation yesterday and they submerged me into Indian culture with lunch in a off the track in the basement kind of 'interesting" kind of place. But the most Delicious food ever! I have a very great connection with this NGO. Their main focus is education for all. He is a young guy - 33 - with a lot of passion and dreams. We have a lot in common in our social agenda but also personally. He also has an advertising agency here in Agra! I am heading out to the slum areas today with him to see his existing schools, meet some government officials and talk to some locals. I can't believe the opportunities that I have been given. Those all aboard L.I.B. Internationals train - it is going to be a bumpy ride but exciting and hopeful!
I have to run at the moment...but will post some pictures and tell you all the other stuff I learn today.
Oh yeh...but before I forget...the best day ever yesterday...I went to a local shop with my new best friend and was given lessons on the Tabala! yeah it was so amazing! then he took me to his families workshop of marble masterpices...amazing...where I learnt all about the process and have gained a whole new respect! Then I went to a late night movie with him and say the bollywood hit PAAA...i was mostly in Hindi..but the odd word in English...but it was great to have a translator with me:) haha...this all wrapped up at 1am...
cheers:) xoxoxo...miss you all!
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
The good times just keep on comming...
I can't believe I have only been here for 3 days...really? It is a little bitter sweet that I left mumbai today...I was just getting comfortable. Before I left I traveled out to Elephanta Island. It was an amazing experience. Once I arrived on the island I found, rather he found me:), a guide. I was a little leary but in the end it was the best money spent...we hiked up to the caves (only 150 stairs or so) but he gave me a crash course on the Hindu religion. There were scenes carved into the rock that depicted parts of the history. I ended up buying a little Genisha statue as it is to bring good luck for new beginnings...I thought it was fitting for L.I.B.
After I made it back to my hotel I met up with the All Human Rights India organization. It was interesting to speak with them regarding human rights in India. Basically they have a group of lawyers in various areas of the country that work as legal aid for the people. Anther major aspect of this organization is to educate people on their rights and what to do if they are challenged. I think this will be a great contact to have and I need to follow up ASAP.
This morning I had to be at the airport by 7...that meant a 5 am wake up call. Of course I woke up again at 3am...ugg I hope that I am somewhat over that. My first flight was late which made me miss the connector flight (nothing seems to run smooth with me and airports lately)..haha! We were put on a little propeller plane to get from Delhi to Agra. The Agra airport was shocking to me. I expected a normal size airport with he Taj all over it, but it was a small building that seemed to be 'under construction' and the luggage belt was in a random open room and needed some WD40...organized chaos! The airport is actually on the military base so you are not allowed to use your camera...that and you are greeted by men and machine guns:)
Today I meet a guy that does exporting of hand made goods from artisans from around the Agra area. I am interested in two of his products. He is going to get some of the requested information on the products and artisans.
Totally random...but they are playing Christmas carols in the lobby of the hostel...
It is now 9:00pm and I am exhausted...I went to take in a cultural event tonight and I couldn't keep my eyes open. I need to go to bed cause I will have an early wake up to get to the Taj Mahal by 6am...best seat in the house apparently!
missing you,
Heather
After I made it back to my hotel I met up with the All Human Rights India organization. It was interesting to speak with them regarding human rights in India. Basically they have a group of lawyers in various areas of the country that work as legal aid for the people. Anther major aspect of this organization is to educate people on their rights and what to do if they are challenged. I think this will be a great contact to have and I need to follow up ASAP.
This morning I had to be at the airport by 7...that meant a 5 am wake up call. Of course I woke up again at 3am...ugg I hope that I am somewhat over that. My first flight was late which made me miss the connector flight (nothing seems to run smooth with me and airports lately)..haha! We were put on a little propeller plane to get from Delhi to Agra. The Agra airport was shocking to me. I expected a normal size airport with he Taj all over it, but it was a small building that seemed to be 'under construction' and the luggage belt was in a random open room and needed some WD40...organized chaos! The airport is actually on the military base so you are not allowed to use your camera...that and you are greeted by men and machine guns:)
Today I meet a guy that does exporting of hand made goods from artisans from around the Agra area. I am interested in two of his products. He is going to get some of the requested information on the products and artisans.
Totally random...but they are playing Christmas carols in the lobby of the hostel...
It is now 9:00pm and I am exhausted...I went to take in a cultural event tonight and I couldn't keep my eyes open. I need to go to bed cause I will have an early wake up to get to the Taj Mahal by 6am...best seat in the house apparently!
missing you,
Heather
Monday, December 7, 2009
Namaste
I made it!!! Finally I have found some much need time and Internet connection. It was an interesting first day here! I arrived in the morning around 2am and was feeling a little uncomfortable with the surroundings for sure. There was supposed to be someone from my hotel picking me up from the airport but I apparently didn't book it in time...what? Me? Really? So I ended up taking a taxi...I guess a short ride in Mumbai is min 1 hour...that is how far my hotel was from the airport.
The area that I am staying in is south Mumbai near the crawford market. On the surface it is not the nicest corner of the town, but I did find the "organized chaos" (as one of the fellow traveller had called it) to be quite beautiful! (Speaking of a fellow traveller...he was yet another super awesome Kiwi...oops sorry I mean New Zealander;)!)
When I got to the hotel everything was on lock down...not the most friendliest welcome for sure...and then I get into this 1940 style elevator (the one where there is a gate to close before going up...then I get lead down this tiny hall and I am the last room in the corner (however later I found out that the 3rd floor is the dungon floor...and it is sick).
I woke up 4 hours later to try and find a phone and/or internet...but apparently they are few and far between in these parts. It was about 7 am and when I walked outside there were people sleeping all over the sidewalks...in little holes in walls...everywhere really! and there were massive black crows flying around in packs. I was definitely over whelmed.
Later that day I went to meet the Wockhardt Foundation. I went to their offices and from the minute I walked in the door I was treated as an equal, an interest, and potential partner. They have been amazing with me while in Mumbai. From booking travel arrangements, to dinner meetings, to offering their executive suite to me for accommodations to offers to meet their families...they are making sure I am taken care of.
I was privileged to accompany them on a project site visit. In Mumbai alone there are 260 slum areas and I went to the smallest... and it was approximately 100-150 families all squatting in temporary housing...in temporary I mean...finding any garbage that is laying around and making use of it to shelter their family. the ironic thing is that one major issue that is related to health is no water...yet this area in particular was built over a huge water pipe.
At their sites they perform general check ups and administer necessary medications. I was there when they found out that a mom and dad are both infected with HIV but the youngest was safe:) I was also able to experience a little gathering of kids at school (these kids do not typically have the option to go to school) and sit down and do some ABC's with them. I asked if this was a stepping stone to get these children of the slums prepared to integrate into the 'regular' school system...and they said that perhaps 1-2 'brian kids' will get sponsored...the others will continue to have limited education and stay is a slum state.
There is a huge need for aid and development in these area...perhaps this is the project for LIB?
Hope this finds everyone well:)
हेअठेर (this is my Hindi name)
I made it!!! Finally I have found some much need time and Internet connection. It was an interesting first day here! I arrived in the morning around 2am and was feeling a little uncomfortable with the surroundings for sure. There was supposed to be someone from my hotel picking me up from the airport but I apparently didn't book it in time...what? Me? Really? So I ended up taking a taxi...I guess a short ride in Mumbai is min 1 hour...that is how far my hotel was from the airport.
The area that I am staying in is south Mumbai near the crawford market. On the surface it is not the nicest corner of the town, but I did find the "organized chaos" (as one of the fellow traveller had called it) to be quite beautiful! (Speaking of a fellow traveller...he was yet another super awesome Kiwi...oops sorry I mean New Zealander;)!)
When I got to the hotel everything was on lock down...not the most friendliest welcome for sure...and then I get into this 1940 style elevator (the one where there is a gate to close before going up...then I get lead down this tiny hall and I am the last room in the corner (however later I found out that the 3rd floor is the dungon floor...and it is sick).
I woke up 4 hours later to try and find a phone and/or internet...but apparently they are few and far between in these parts. It was about 7 am and when I walked outside there were people sleeping all over the sidewalks...in little holes in walls...everywhere really! and there were massive black crows flying around in packs. I was definitely over whelmed.
Later that day I went to meet the Wockhardt Foundation. I went to their offices and from the minute I walked in the door I was treated as an equal, an interest, and potential partner. They have been amazing with me while in Mumbai. From booking travel arrangements, to dinner meetings, to offering their executive suite to me for accommodations to offers to meet their families...they are making sure I am taken care of.
I was privileged to accompany them on a project site visit. In Mumbai alone there are 260 slum areas and I went to the smallest... and it was approximately 100-150 families all squatting in temporary housing...in temporary I mean...finding any garbage that is laying around and making use of it to shelter their family. the ironic thing is that one major issue that is related to health is no water...yet this area in particular was built over a huge water pipe.
At their sites they perform general check ups and administer necessary medications. I was there when they found out that a mom and dad are both infected with HIV but the youngest was safe:) I was also able to experience a little gathering of kids at school (these kids do not typically have the option to go to school) and sit down and do some ABC's with them. I asked if this was a stepping stone to get these children of the slums prepared to integrate into the 'regular' school system...and they said that perhaps 1-2 'brian kids' will get sponsored...the others will continue to have limited education and stay is a slum state.
There is a huge need for aid and development in these area...perhaps this is the project for LIB?
Hope this finds everyone well:)
हेअठेर (this is my Hindi name)
Saturday, November 7, 2009
L.I.B. International - The Start of Our Journey
It is with great pleasure and excitement to announce L.I.B. International's exciting journey and commitment to development of humanity in India. On December 4th 2009 L.I.B. International will be traveling to India on a research and development trip.
The core objectives for this trip are:
- Meet and collaborate with Indian non-government organizations in the Mumbai, Agra, Delhi and Leh regions to identify major plights and common issues regarding the poverty in India.
- Find a product from an independent artisans or community group and import under fair trade principles to Canada.
- Define specific projects that would contribute to the social development of India.
To Learn more about the Foundation visit our website: www.libinternational.com.
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