Settling in

At the end of our orientation week, Siddhartha (the Program Director) and Lauren (Program Coordinator) went over FSD policies before we went to our host families. One "touchy" topic was that of motorcycles. The FSD official policy is that we should not ride on motorcycles. However, they understand that often when we are in the field traveling from village to village, there is no other option available. In that case, they require that we wear a helmet, which FSD can lend out from their office.

For my first day of work, Lauren picked me up at my house to walk me to my new office. However, there was a change of plans and Siddhartha was going to take me on his motorcycle instead. Siddhartha came out with his helmet, and I was waiting for them to bring me the extra one, but it never came. He hopped on the bike, and I cautiously climbed on and tightly grabbed his waist. He started the engine and yelled, "I hope this is not your first motorcycle ride!" I replied, "No. It's my second." And we sped off down the dusty roads.

For my parents' peace of mind I should mention that the office was very close - a 3 minute ride - and Siddhartha drove very slowly and safely. My only previous motorcycle ride was just down the block and back in an Atlanta suburb, which somehow seemed much scarier.

My workplace is beautiful, because it is surrounded by demonstration farms and orchards and gardens. I have a little desk in a shared office, and I have been spending my time reading and talking to staff members and touring the premises. Tomorrow I am accompanying one staff member to the field where they have several projects underway in various villages. I am incredibly excited. I had one field visit already during orientation and it was by far the best part of my trip so far. The countryside is stunningly beautiful and the people were so kind.

I have moved into my new home where I live with my host mother, whom I call "Auntie." She is fabulous, and later on I will dedicate an entire post to her. Yesterday she took me with her to a Muslim prayer service which she leads. She and an older woman read (but more like sang and chanted) Urdu texts that were remembering the death of Mohammed's grandson Hussein. It was very beautiful, and must have been incredibly sad because all the women were in tears the whole time. The group was entirely composed of women ranging from ages 40 to 100.

I am posting a link to another blog that Dan and Ali write together - they are also interns on my program. It may have more fun stories and pictures of Udaipur!
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