A bit of Normality

Had a really good week and weekend the lead up to my holiday so a great start. I've begun my lessons with the Special Education Diploma Trainees, aimed it a bit high, OT jargon went a bit over their heads but have revised my plan for this coming week to make things a bit clearer and easier to follow in translation. Also shortened it as things taking a bit longer than expected to explain and clarify understanding as well as the enthusiasm for group work, taking double the time planned. But I'm glad i can review and make things better. Check out the normality of class segregation here. They actually chose to sit like this, women on one side men on the other. What's funny is they all rise when I enter and say 'Namaste Mam' then i tell them to sit down. It makes things a bit formal for me but i know its all about showing respect.

 Well to get onto my amazing weekend, another volunteer Joel from Uganda has come to live in Ranchi, so i got Fred who lives about 50km away to join us as well to show Joel around the town. Spent Saturday shopping bought some new goggles for swimming and new trainers (which have already given me blisters). I have been craving a simple pizza for 5 months so we had dinner at Domino's pizza, chicken fiesta still makes my mouth water thinking about it. All three of us headed off to see my first English movie at the cinema The Dark Night Rising which we thoroughly enjoyed, almost felt like a day at home in England with some normality. I braved driving home at night with Fred on the back of motorbike, avoiding the drink drivers, cows asleep in middle of road, bumps, pot holes all remember with no street lighting. Pat on the back for Rose.

 Next day everyone met up at mine for a delicious breakfast of boiled eggs and toast, thanks Fred for cooking. Then we were off for a look around and stroll through Ranchi's biggest tourist attraction The Rock Garden. Actually exceeded my expectations for Jharkhand so was pleasantly surprised even in the rain.

 Seemed to be the place where couples met to hold hands and families enjoyed a stroll. It had some weird exhibits or art structures including a UFO, pyramid and a strange monster protruding out a pool. But it was also the only place in Ranchi that was quiet and peaceful. I feel there will be many more visits here in the future.

                             

 People boating and swimming.