Married, honeymooned and back to reality

Well, so now I am a Mrs.

The wedding was perfect. Only minor stressors here and there. We really enjoyed ourselves and are still riding that great feeling. It was wonderful to have so many people we love in one place to celebrate with us.

Then we went to India for our honeymoon. Man that was definitely a culture shock for us. There are people everywhere. I mean everywhere. It was unbelievable. People walking, on bikes, on motorcycles, in rickshaws, cars and buses. Occasionally riding water buffalo and elephants in the smaller villages.

The highway system, which is new in Delhi, was still filled with all of the above. Including cows on their own, dogs and abandoned rickshaws and cars. Delhi is the host of the 2010 Olympics which is difficult to imagine. I hope people who visit there do their research first. It's not like going to Greece!

We drove 100s of km to see different Buddhist pilgrimage sites. We saw where Buddha was born (actually in Nepal), where he was enlightened, gave his first lecture and where he died. Among other important sites. Even if Buddha didn't exist he has inspired such faith and loyalty. It's beautiful and strange. Buddha would not have wanted the reverence he is now receiving. He was always against images of himself and vehemently opposed being called a religious leader. His was more of a philosophy, but over time many branches and changes have made Buddhism into religion.



Tourist season in India is generally October to March. Needless to say we stuck out more than usual and got many stares and inquiries about our nationality. Almost everyone thought we were European and were surprised to hear "America." We tried saying United States, but people didn't understand that.

We were followed, barraged from the moment we stepped out of our car to buy this or that. My suitcase was literally taken from me once and placed on a luggage rack so the guy could make a couple Rupees. It was difficult to get used to and rather exhausting. It was hard to tell when someone just wanted to be friendly or wanted money. We got unwanted, impromptu guides in museums who "volunteered" info and then expected payment. We paid people for doing nothing for us in bathrooms but essentially had no other way of making money.

But we also had friendly conversation here and there. We really got to know our driver well--8 days together going all over the country. He didn't speak great English, but enough to get along.



It was a whirlwind. We are so glad that we went and had such a great experience. I can't wait to travel more--maybe for our anniversary!