Under the Prayer Flags

Early this morning, despite the hazy coat of cool air, I watched the sun catch the Himalayan peaks with authority and wrap the colorful prayer flags with gentleness. An hour later, I joined the group and headed off to explore the city. My colorful skirt joined the others, swaying past the sounds, smells and sights that contrasted sharply with the powerful ranges and peaceful religions. Moreover, I was quickly caught up in the adventurous lives of my new trekking friends; getting to know them has been a real pleasure. A love for the wilderness is our common bond.

Most important, I gained merrit by walking around the Stupa numerous times, spinning the prayer wheel along the way. No one seemed to notice my awkward effort to blend in to the timeless system. How I managed to make it home, unharmed, was a haunting question. Imagine New York City without street signs, traffic lights, speed signs, cross walks, turn lanes, parking spots or animal laws. Now you have driving in Nepal. The one common denominator is "beep, beep."

Yesterday we toured the Patan Museum. It is a must in understanding the culture of two religions living side by side in a respectful co-existance. The Buddihist and Hindu religions are very complicated but simple, and they have a admirable peacefulness about them.

Saturday the 22rd, we shopped the markets, viewed many dieties and stupas, and dodged the relentless crazy traffic. One of our destinations was the Temple of the Living Goddess; we were hoping to see her in the window, but it was not to be. The Kumari, unique to Nepali Hinduism as a seat of spiritual power. Tomorrow we begin our much anticipated trek. Enjoy the pics, I'll be back in touch once I've touched the mountins.