Massive Feasts

When you think of Syria what do you think of? Whatever may come to mind, I bet it's not basketball. But basketball is exactly what Syria has become to us. Well, that and Mohammed.

Of all the great experiences we've had here in Nepal over the past few months the 2-day wedding we attended on December 13th-14th has got to be the most special. That and the day we went to Suresh's home for "tika" and lunch back in November in Kathmandu. This wedding was definitely the most interesting thing we've witnessed here. As a romantic event it was sorely lacking, but as a cultural experience it was simply amazing. And I can't stress enough how lucky I feel each time we get to experience such an unexpected treat. Being invited into people's homes is already extremely special; we never expected to be invited to a wedding. Not for two hours let alone two whole days!

So, after nearly 3 weeks down south, we arrived back here in Shihua, in Northern Xinjiang, yesterday afternoon. Southern Xinjiang is a completely different world and returning here felt like returning to China. Our time down south turned out to be quite different than we had planned or expected. Besides some disappointment/problems (one quite big) it was an unbelievable time full of fun, surprises, incredible experiences, wonderful people, great food and, believe it or not, very little beer.