Mahendranaghar

http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Mahendranagar,+Far-Western+Region,+Nepal&sll=28.962228,80.147743&sspn=0.069389,0.143852&g=Mahendranagar+Airport,+Mahendranagar,+Mahakali,+Far-Western+Region,+Nepal&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Mahendranagar,+Mahakali,+Far-Western+Region,+Nepal&ll=28.796546,80.101318&spn=2.223801,8.789062&z=7

Visiting a friend's family from ENPHO. So awesome to be in the presence of a local family and getting to know the life of a local in the far-west. Very different than the rest of the country.

Arrived after the overnight bus ride. It's hot here, but definitely enjoying a break from the chaos of the valley. Lots of time to think and digest all that has been going on.

To be honest, my original goals have kind of been altered drastically as I came to realize limitations of infant flow CPAP compressed air sources in Nepal. That being said, I've also been able to see the endless possibilities of development through a different approach in starting bubble CPAP at various locations through spare parts brought over.

I've also refocused a lot to focus on relationships with people as the primary objective - so that continued support can happen while on the other side of the world. It's been a very fruitful time in Nepal learning a lot about how other people are living without electricity and water. But most importantly indulging in the community spirit in all things. E.g. at post office, stamp seller involves me stamping envelopes to increase efficiency (so we work together). After leaving my water bottle behind at the post office, the customer is found drinking out of it. With water in shortage everywhere, it seems that if there is a need people just fill it. Other examples are on buses, old lady just asks for water from a younger teenage boy and he gives her water. They really know how to stick together and endure the hardships that they face together.

Also being in close quarters makes conversations with your 'neighbours' a necessity. It's quite different than in Canada where it often feels weird to strike up conversation with the person sitting next to you on the bus...

Nepal is a beautiful place and lots learning here. OK, gotta go, hopefully, this goes through... electricity has been cutting out very often here..