Tremors

Today I woke up around 4:30am to rumbling. Ani didn't move an itch, so I just assumed that I had been dreaming. I went to the bathroom, then hopped back in bed and fell asleep.

A few hours later, I was riding in the car to work and my colleagues where yapping away in Hindi. I finally asked what they were talking about and they said that there was an earthquake this morning!

Turns out it was relatively minor, only 4.3 magnitude, but a little scary nonetheless. Fortunately, reported damage is minimal, which is remarkable in a country with such shoddy infrastructure. I'm sure more stories will come out throughout the day, but for now, all is well.

And I'm happy to know that I'm not crazy and I really did feel something this morning.

Reuters India: Quake measuring 4.3 hits New Delhi, surrounding areas

Playtime at Chanda Aunty's

Two of my favorite people came over today for breakfast. They were Sheren and Souhani, Ani's nieces. Sheren will be 5 in a few weeks and Souhani turns 2 in early January. I quickly realized that the apartment is not child-proof and that I was lacking entertained for kids. Fortunately, I had a stash of bubbles (thanks Laura!) that did the trick for awhile. And when the novelty of those wore off, I could always turn to my collection of shoes and jewelry to keep the girls amused.

(This photo is from a few weeks ago, but I love it, so I had to post it)

Oh yeah, this is India

Early today I was returning from my daily visit to the doctor by cycle rickshaw and we were got in an enormous traffic jam at the side entrance to my neighborhood. I soon noticed that there were two police officers trying their best to direct traffic and I thought to myself, how nice. Progress was slow, but things were moving.

Then I noticed a police vehicle that was also trying to get through the madness. Eventually, the car was able to pass and disappeared down the street. But then I noticed that the police officers also disappeared.

Apparently they were only there to help their car and not the numerous cars, trucks, motorbikes, bicycles and pedestrians that were also trying to maneuver through the intersection.

Oh yeah, this is India, every man for himself.

Chokhi Dhani

After a REALLY long car ride to Jaipur from Agra, we finally arrived at our hotel Chokhi Dhani. We rested for a bit and then made out way to the grounds for a Rajasthani dinner and village entertainment. We enjoyed a spicy, veg meal while sitting on the ground - Rajasthani style! These photos will look very familiar to some of you, especially Joey and Jarret.

Afterwards, we walked about the ground and listening to the music, watched the dancers, and sipped yummy chai. My mom and I even took a camel ride! Unfortunately, both of our camera batteries died at this point, so we don't have any proof!

Agra and the Taj Mahal

On Sunday, we ventured to Agra by car to visit the Taj Mahal. After an early start (6am) and nearly 5 hours in the car, we finally arrived. Our timing was great and we got there just before the masses arrived.

My favorite part was the discrepancy in prices for India nationals (20 rupees or $0.50) and foreign nationals (750 rupees or almost $20). Somehow this price difference is justified because the foreign tickets include a bottle of water and slippers to use while inside (otherwise you are requried to take your shoes off).

Anyways, once inside, we thoroughly enjoyed it. We hired a guide to show us around, which was great because I missed a lot of the details the last time. After about 2 hours of walking around and touring, we headed back to the car and avoided all of the tourist-trap shops.

Next stop: Jaipur

Meet the Parents

Well, it was more like the parents meeting each other. Last Friday, on my parents first full day in Delhi, we had dinner at Ani's family's house. We were warmly greeted by his entire family - Dad, Mom, 1 brother, 3 sisters, 1 sister-in-law, 2 brother-in laws, 2 nephews and 2 nieces! We had a wonderful dinner at their house and most of the time was spent chatting with one another. Ani's brother-in-laws took the lead and ensured that my parents were entertained and felt at home.

It couldn't have been a better first meeting. Everyone really enjoyed themselves and is looking forward to more similar evenings.

The First Day

My Mom and Dad arrived in Delhi late on Thursday night. By the time we were back to my apartment and ready for bed, it was already 4am. They were up early the next morning, which meant so was I. After breakfast, we set off for the start of sightseeing in Delhi. First we visited Humayun's Tombs, one of my favorite places in Delhi.

My actual favorite place is a huge interchange near my house. I love it for two reason. First, it is incredibly efficient, something you don't see every day in India. Second, among all of the on and off ramps are huge green spaces, another thing you don't see too often here. Ani and his family laughed at me everytime we pass through and they remark, "Oh, this is Chanda's favorite place in all of Delhi!" But it's true.

After touring Humayun's Tombs, we drove by Parliament, India Gate and the President's House. Our final stop of the afternoon was at Khan Market, where we enjoyed a little shopping and lunch before heading back to my apartment. By this time, the jet lag was setting in on my parents and I was exhausted from only having a few hours of sleep.
After resting, we got ready for the big event...The meeting of my family and Ani's family. You'll have to read the next entry to hear all about it.