Happy Tihar!

Happy Tihar everyone! This week has been Tihar, the festival of lights. It's pretty much the greatest holiday ever. Kind of like a fabulous combination of Halloween, Christmas, and Chanukah, except that it lasts 5 days. Everyone decorates their homes and buisinesses with marigold chains, colorful lights, and elaborate pictures made of collored powder arranged on the ground. Don't worry, I got some pictures. During the holiday, children go door to door, singing and dancing. In return, they get money and sweets. Pretty fabulous. It's a gorgeous holiday.

Last night, my friend Birat took me on his motorcycle all over the city. The lights and everything were gorgeous, and luckily, I didn't die. He's a very safe driver.

Anyway, I've just been bumming around Kathmandu the last few days, which is fun in its own right. I went to a Tihar party yesterday, and visited Happy House the day before. Fun times. Tomorrow, I'm heading to Lumbini. It's a 10 hour bus ride, bleh. But, it should be really nice and peaceful. I'll be there for 2 full days and then another 10 hour ride back. Still, I'm pretty excited about going. It will be nice to get out of Thamel. I really can't believe that I'm leaving Nepal in less than a week. That's unbelievably insane! I'm really hoping my suitcase isn't too heavy with all the stuff I'm bringing back!