From Dakshina Kannada

Hi all,
We have arrived at Avinash's family's place today after a short flight from Bangalore to Mangalore. Ani's dad came to Mangalore in a taxi and we all took the taxi back to Sullia, which is a 3 hour journey on little mountain roads. Mom was very impressed by the picturesque tropical scenery and the comparative wealth of the district (no bullock carts, beggars, or pesky vendors bothering us). This is one of the most financially well-off regions of India and the landscape is extremely lush and green.

We had a small siesta when we reached the Bhat household (which like all South Indian homes, has a name (which translates to "unique" or "unrivaled") and then had an afternoon tea of chai with vermicelli noodles prepared with black mustard seeds, chili, and toor dal tempering.

We took a small excursion to Sullia proper (we are located in the countryside outside of town) and took some photos on a small pedestrian suspension bridge across the river. Avinash's dad then showed us the local engineering, medical, dental, and nursing colleges, and visited three milk stores looking for skim milk for me (none was available, but he is trying hard to be accomodating and won't accept reassurances that 1% is fine).

We returned home and watched a little of the cricket game between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on TV. Mom and I understand most of the game now, although the rules are so difficult I'm not sure if we will ever master them.

Tomorrow is the festival day of Diwali. Avinash's relatives (aunts, uncles, cousins, grannies) are coming for the day - there is a special feast and firecrackers in the evening.

Hope all is well at home,
love
Linda and Mom