My shoes and I have arrived safely! I will share the story behind the shoes. I needed sensible Shoes, not my usual flip flops, for the extreme conditions I may find myself in, here in Udaipur. Off to a sensible shoe shop I went, unable to part with £80 for shoes I disliked, I bought the only pair on sale for £30, it didn’t really matter what they looked like, they will probably be discarded in 6 months time. I told the salesman I hated them but would take them, much to his amusement. They looked OK in a size 5 but once you get to an 8, not so attractive!
Anyway, there are very comfortable which is I guess all that matters. On the subject of clothing, while I am working I will be wearing the traditional Khurta (long shirt) over baggy pants, (usual for me). They come in the most beautiful jewelled colours and in the old town cost as little as £3 to £5 100% cotton, essential.
My first job here will be working in the ‘Short Stay Home’ a refuge here in Udaipur for abused women and their children, they come to the short stay home when they have nowhere else to go. I will assess the needs of the women and children and come up with ideas to entertain and educate, building confidence and social skills. I start next week so will have more of an idea once I begin. If you would like to learn more about the work of Seva Mandir do go to http://www.sevamandir.org
My home for the next 6 months will be a dormitory with 4 beds, one bed is in a separate space which I can have next week when one girl leaves, we share a kitchen and bathroom, no shower, just bucket and jug, however there is hot water. It’s basic but has everything I need. A ceiling fan blows the hot air around all day and night, without it, it would be unbearable, a power cut for only half an hour had me soaking wet! It’s 42 degrees, drops to 32 at night.
My Ugly Shoes.
My new home
It’s been a difficult few days, I have felt ‘out of my comfort zone’, bewildered and wondered what am I doing here? I’ve eaten very little, banana sandwiches mostly! However, today I’m feeling a lot more settled and happy that I’m here. I’m off exploring, me and my ‘Ugly Shoes’ are going to find a cappuccino by the lake.
Udaipur is set beside lake Pichola, it’s a romantic setting with palaces and temples. In the old town, narrow colourful streets, ancient bazaars and an artistic vibe. Still to explore so keep reading my blog!
Namaste
