botanical gardens. Saturday, December 18, 2010      

preschool.   Thursday, December 16, 2010 Judah started preschool today. Are you shocked? I kind of am. It is something David and I talked about back before we moved here … like, “Oh, it would be so wonderful if we could find a preschool for Judah,” but I never thought we’d find one so fast, and I certainly never thought he’d start this month. But here we are, with Day One behind us, and to me this is a beautiful story of the how God is providing for our boy here in this country. Judah had a terrific first day.  He waved good-bye enthusiastically when we dropped him off at…

  state capital. Wednesday, December 15, 2010      

  what i like. Wednesday, December 15, 2010   what I like. The feel of our apartment tile under my feet Careening through traffic in an auto-rickshaw The singsong greeting, “Namaskara,” accompanied by a shy smile Everybody here thinks my kids are as cute as I do The inspiring world of South Asian flat breads what I don’t like. When my shower turns cold before I can get all the shampoo out of my hair Waking multiple times a night to the blood-curdling sound of dogs fighting Stares wherever I go because I look different The way my house helper calls me, “Ma’am” The permanent gritty feeling in all of…

  how we do bubble baths in south asia. Monday, December 13, 2010      

  sunday evening at the playground. Monday, December 13, 2010      

  masala dosas = new breakfast tradition. Monday, December 13, 2010      

  christmas tree decorating. Monday, December 13, 2010      

    The other night, David and Judah went to Thom’s Bakery for a few groceries and fresh-baked hamburger rolls for our dinner, so Amelie and I hung out at Colleen’s apartment. I love being at her place.  It is always warm and homey, with a fresh pot of coffee made, but I especially love being there now because it is decorated for Christmas.  There is a six-foot artificial tree with twinkle lights and funky South Asian ornaments, greenery here and there, and, best of all, a big white lighted star hanging on the balcony, which is how Christians in this country decorate for Christmas. We put our feet up…

  he says. Saturday, December 11, 2010   Judah: “Mommy, are you sad?” me:  “Yes, I’m sad.” Judah: “Do you wanna have a birthday party?  Do you want my Lightening McQueen?”