Christmas in India

Being my first Christmas over seas in YEARS, I woke up excited! I didn't miss home too much (sorry folks), but Christmas isn't really a big "to do" for me.  I'm no Grinch, but I find it tiresome to get caught up in all the commercialism, stress and frantic comsumption.  It IS a wonderful time for family, friends, feasting and fun!  I was thankful to have my sister Grace and friend Courtney here with me to share the experience.

We started off the morning with a wonderful church service where everyone shared a song, carol, story or prayer in front of the church.  We did a funny skit and song we wrote complete with a rap verse, just in case we weren't already feeling white enough.  It was a great time and the church along with everyone looked so festive!

Afterwards we exchanged gifts and it was such a sweet time! 

When we got home, were surprised to find 3 brightly wrapped boxes with our names on them. I felt so touched. Then, my friend made the most delicious meal and finally, we ended the day playing games with friends.  At one point, I forgot I was 1,000's of miles away from all that was familiar to me during the holiday time - snow, family, Home Alone and truely embraced my surroundings. I will always remember this time and cherish the kindness I was shown and the blessings the Lord gave me this Christmas.



Vijay & Neeraja giving their Christmas greetings



Our beautiful tiny tree

What is it??

Gorgeous sari

Everyone's suited them so nicely

Neeraja's gifts from Grace

My gift from Courtney - Indian purse filled with Splenda (nearly impossible to come by here)

My peacock earrings from Grace

I bought myself a henna design at the mall - I'll have to practice getting this good

Merry Christmas to me, ICE!! (also hard to come by in India)

one of my most favorite Indian desserts

Neeraja's amazing fried chicken

I made pancakes for everyone

and the girls wanted to learn

we played games

Even the guys got into it

It was so much fun

Hanging out having a great time

Our wonderful hosts!

These people are beautiful inside AND out

What's a party without "Thums Up" cola? (immediate cavities upon consumption)

Holiday Festivities Wrap up

We basically did caroling, house visits and church programs ALL through the month of December.  Christmas is a BIG deal here in the Indian Christian community.  Here are some shots of our celebrations.  Please take note of the mustache and moles on the youngsters....I think we should implement it into our culture!

Every program ends with a candle lighting

Notice creepy Santa lurking in the background

They sing...rather scream carols and bang on their instruments.  It's quite festive

Grace dancing in the dark

We all cram into everyone's homes and then they serve us tea and cakes

A church we were invited to come sing for

They always have a cake for Jesus' birthday and we cut it and share it with everyone

This was a youth event we did with A2J (Addicted 2 Jesus) band

wild poinsettias growing in the yard

My beautiful friend Natalia and us girls riding on the bus from house to house singing carols

Brother Vijay preaching a holiday sermon

Jesus cake (it all tastes like bubble gum)

Singing our hearts and lungs out!  I know it's called a "sound system" for a reason, but not sure why?

So that's the condensed view of what we were up to in December.  Looking forward to the new year and all the blessings, excitement, surprises and growth 2012 will bring!

Everyday India - Part duex

We've been up in the mountains for a few days with NO cell reception or internet.  I have so many pics and stories to update you all on, but I am very fatigued from the long journey. So, since a picture is worth a 1,000 Rupees, here are some of this and that.  (Araku Valley pictures to follow soon)

First time trying a custard apple

TONS of seeds, but very yummy! Tastes a bit like a pear

This is a sapota.  Very fibrous and tasty. 

Inside of a sopota.  Tastes a bit like an apricot. 

Scrambled eggs, toast, and strawberry lasi breakfast

Every Hindu has these arrangements outside their home or business as an offering.  

A starchy root boiled and eaten with a little salt or even sugar.

Stairs everywhere!  Must be laundry day

Don't freak out moms.  This is how the children ride in cars

Oh boy, no easy way around this one.  Unfortunately, this is one of the better looking dogs

Our little neighbor girl who comes out to see us as soon as we step outside

Chai break

They serve you tea or coffee in these tiny cups wherever you go

SHOPPING!

Beautiful fabrics that go on for days!

Courtney trying on a sari

Paying for our fabrics, now we just need to visit the tailors

Choosing the design and having our measurements taken

Showing the girls pictures of my friends & family - everyone loves my "brag book"

The finished product.  Looking very authentic in their new dresses.  Mine is still being stitched -stay tuned!