12/17 Banana Flowers for lunch!

Today was Social Studies and Science for the upper classes and English for Nursery.  I give dictation - only ten words and it's very difficult for them.  More importantly they want “Time, Time” and all grab for my watch.  Once gone I help with the other classes.  When the students are done, they help to clean up, water, etc… I stop by to get some water in the kitchen (btw one of my concerns was the availability of water which has not been a problem as they have a water filter that is always full thanks to Sumun)  He seems to be preparing something very strange - a big red pod when opened reveals delicate white leaves.  Turns out it is banana flowers which are really baby bananas.  They are cooked in spices and absolutely delicious.  A little bitter alone but when mixed with rice delicious!  The texture is similar to artichoke leaves but more delicate.  For the second time since I arrived, I attempt to wash my clothes.  I had watched Sumun trying to pick up some technique, but wasn’t very successful;) So I took my sweet time and probably way too much water, but enjoyed the view.  At one point, I could here soft voices behind me and saw a girl smiling or more likely laughing at tmy attempt.  At dusk, we had visitors again.  On my visits to the markets I had noticed many small turbaned men pushing bicycles carrying huge dirty black loads sweating and intensely focused on keeping the weight steady.  Turns out they haul coal.  The weight that they push carry is extraordinary and sometimes for very great distances.  Also turns out that Bruni and the pups have to be relocated, but they will go to the safety of Sumun’s room so all is well.  After tea and a brief discussion of the illegal coal mines, Bollywood takes over.  Siddarth plays some of his favorite music from his cell phone - some of which I recognize.  I have a surreal moment while listening to one of my favorite songs from K3G and am overwhelmed by the night sky, the music, and the fact that I really am in India.  Dinner rolls around and I’m still not feeling well so I go to bed early … happy … but early.