Jodhpur

We arrived safely in Jodhpur and I got a big smile and "Welcome to India" from Abhijeet's mom. We were both also pleasantly surprised to see that she does know more English than we thought which makes communication a whole lot easier. I also think that I learned more Hindi words in the first day in Jodhpur than I learned in months of classes. I have a real motivation to learn now that I am staying with Abhijeet's family and I have constant exposure to the language. I am finding that Hindi really is the dominant language in India.  I find that usually at shops, taxis, etc Abhijeet must do the talking and I just sit back and stare like a foreigner (that I am!). Speaking of staring, I am getting quite a number of stares when I go out and about in the city. Since there are not many foreigners here and I have blonde hair, pale skin, and wear jeans and a t-shirt, I certainly stand out.

Usually I love big, bustling cities, but I have found that I am really enjoying the slower pace of Jodhpur. I am still getting used the driving style, but at least here there is not so much trafic back up and everyone drives fairly slow so as to accomodate for the bustle of activity on the road. We have only gone out for errands around town and spent time with Abhijeet's family, but it is nice to feel comfortable in a home atmosphere. My favorite thing to do is go up on the roof (it is flat cement with stairs that go up) either in the morning for tea before the sun has come out or in the evening to look at the stars. On Monday night Abhijeet and I sat out there talking with his mom like he used to do with his parents as a kid. The conversation was a mix of English, a few Hindi words, and Abhijeet's translation help, but somehow was effortless and flowing.
It has been nice to have some down time in Jodhpur because I have been hit by a case of the infamous traveler's sickness. It is not too bad yet, so I am treating it with a strict diet of only rice and yogurt (Abhijeet's mom makes it fresh every day).  I am hoping this does the trick soon because I already miss the warm paranthas, spicy pickles, and chai tea.
Here are a few pictures from around town in Jodhpur.