Festivities

We've just finished festival season here in Nepal. First, we had Dashain, which is the biggest festival of the year. Many people spend this time with family- eating, drinking, dancing, playing games, etc. Nepalis really know how to celebrate. They don't waste their time with one day holidays like many of us are used to. Dashain last for two weeks (or three depending on who you ask) and spills into Tihar (which is called Diwali in India), the second biggest festival in Nepal.

Tihar, or the festival of lights, is probably my favorite festival, and not just because it includes a day that honors dogs. For us, Tihar feels like a combination of July 4th, Halloween and Christmas. Lights and decorations adorn houses and shops, reminding me of the days leading up to Christmas. The air is filled with a festive spirit and the noise of firecrackers, usually set off by giggling boys. Many children (and a few adults acting like children) do the Nepali version of trick or treat, gathering in front of stores and singing until the shopkeeper offers a few rupees or pieces of candy. All in all, it's a wonderful holiday.

Here are a few pictures from Tihar...

Kitty on "Khukur Puja"

Garlands for Tihar

Our house, ready for Laxmi

 

Children "trick or treating"

Swings which are set up for Dashain and Tihar

Lovin On Lebanon!

For the past week, we've been trying to figure out what we should write on this blog about our incredible vacation in Lebanon. It was one of those experiences that is difficult to put into words...so we're not going to try. Instead, here's a link to many, many pictures that will give you an idea of how amazing our vacation was.

Lebanon