My Day........

I had an 8 a.m. wake up call. I woke up groggy, probably from the benedryl I have become addicted to at night here in Thamel. I was on a mission: drop my laundry off, find some breakfast my stomach could handle and checky my email (quickly) all before 9:30 a.m. when the Hotel car would be ready to take me for my follow-up appt at Norvic. It always excites me when I see an email from anyone back home and today I had a few! (Thanks!) I especially get excited when I see one from Max. They are usually long, descriptive, warm and they have a way of making me feel fuzzy inside. :)
Mission accomplished. I was back at the hotel by 9:20 a.m. and the car was pulling out at 9:30 a.m. SHARP. Off on our crazy journey to the hospital. Vishnu, my driver, spoke some English which is always nice. I have referenced before, but riding in any sort of moving vehicle in Kathmandu raises your blood pressure exponentially. It really is mayhem. Twice, no three times, Vishnu decided the Kia in front of us was not driving fast enough so he ventured outside his lane and into oncoming traffic (Um... heloooo?? Precious cargo, Vishnu!!) and then swiftly swerved back into the correct lane. I don't think an 'Oh Shit" handle big enough has been invented yet....
The other hurdle for me and Vishnu was the fact that Nepal's government is in wacky sorts right now and political demonstrations are common. Although intriguing, they are not conducive to any citizen trying to get somewhere on time because they (policical demonstrators)have not a care in the world except what they are 'demonstrating'. As a result, traffic stops, drivers get frustrated and turn off their cars, and passengers watch with meticulous eyes, somewhat helpless.
The sight was like one I have not ever seen in the U.S. Not as crazy as I imagine those hippie protestors against Vietnam, but most definitely worth writing about. Nepalese cops are everywhere, trying to maintain peace. Onlookers are watching cautiously and taking photographs to document the activity. Demonstrators are chanting and shouting and holding up flags, while some are getting arrested for performing an unjust or violent act. This goes on for about 20-30 minutes or so. And finally, the police take control, and traffic can resume. Like that- a flip of a switch. Weird!
Poor Vishnu. He was a stressful little driver. I could tell by his excessive (emphasis- EXCESSIVE) honking and grunting. He did kindly let me use his cell phone so I could call my doctor and update him on my lack of progress. Dr. Khadgi responded with a slight chuckle and "Welcome to Nepal, my dear. Take your time." because he knew he was not going anywhere either.
We made it! Nothing looked familiar to me about the area surrounding Norvic. I was scared Vishnu may have misunderstood me. We were right. But I realized I had no idea what to do. Do I have a formal appointment? How does this medical system work here? I went to the desk, they made me pay 2700 rupees to see the doctor. WHAT? Who am I seeing, the King? Only Gold and 19 bottles of top shelf tequilla cost 2700 rupees here. Just a joke. We get so used to spending such little money. I did not care. My doctor is worthy of my 30/40 USD. :)

I waited only 5 minutes to see the doctor (reason #2100 I love NEPAL!) and my visit went well. I felt good and so did he. I am on the way to 100% recovery!! yay :)

We had our monthly volunteer meeting today. It went well and now we are on the way to our volunteer dinner. I will write more about the meeting and my placement ASAP.
I am going to leave tomorrow and begin my life with the host family. I can't wait! Stay tuned for details!
Thanks so much for reading. I love it here and am so happy.

J with lots of smileys