Monday, August 2, 2010

And We're Off

And the award goes to...







Just like the monsoons fade away each year, the SMU crew has worn out its welcome in India and the journey home must begin.

Goa to Mumbai, layover in Mumbai, Mumbai to JFK, transfer to Newark, Newark to Dallas.

To the 36 hour journey that lies ahead.

35th Night in India

As promised, here are the most recent pictures of my adventures in Goa. Click for pics! Enjoy.



Locations include: Taj For Aguada Beach Resort, Goa Spice Plantation (where we attempted to shoot cashew tequila), ironically churches were next of the list of sites to see (one of which Saint Francis Xavier is buried), and finally yet another fort, Aguada Fort.

I'm happy to say that my time here on the last leg of the trip has flown by. Mumbai and Goa were gone in a blink and home is just around the corner, which is ever the more reason to celebrate on our last day of this Indian adventure. I treated myself to a five hour pampering which consisted of a coconut body scrub, relaxing massage, papaya facial, ending with a mani/pedi to send me on my way back to the states somewhat resembling myself. After our sad goodbye to Jiva spa, we made our way ocean-side to soak in the hot Indian sun. Being monsoon season, rain interruptions were NBD, just another excuse to go to the cabana to order more food and drinks.



As I sit here now reminiscing on the last five weeks, I don't think I can ever explain the feeling that I have. Never have I been more excited to be home, where my people and heart reside. And knowing that India has given me this gift, so precious and intangible, something I can carry with me for the rest of my blessed life is just amazing. As you can see, a lot of emotions are starting to build up inside me regarding my upcoming journey home--maybe soon I can comprehend and share the purpose of this gift that I have been given.

Last night dinner at El Camino with the amazing TAI.

To that "end of the trip" feeling.

Home awaits!

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Goa Adventures

Will have to wait until tomorrow. I'm absolutely exhausted from a full day of 8 a.m. ocean-side yoga, Goan cathedrals, a spice tour, shopping excursions and countless hours on the bus. (Not to mention the late night chocolate ice-cream and Slumdog Millionaire watch party with Ren).

Until tomorrow.

Starting at 11 a.m., I will be enjoying a peaceful relaxation day at Jiva spa. For five straight hours, I will be pampered from head to toe, starting with a two hour massage!

Home keeps inching closer. T minus 2 days.