Backwaters = Paradise

I wrote this entry while on a boat in the backwaters in Alleppey. Seriously, the most beautiful place ever. Photos take too long to upload so everyone will just have to sit tight. Don't worry, I have enough to share. Anyway, here are my thoughts about the backwaters . . .

Birds fly, skimming the water as the sun reflects on the glass like surface and disappears behind a strip of land lined with coconut trees. A woman works on readying a fishing net in a canoe in front of us. I am surrounded by every shated of green ever created. Banana trees press against the blue mosquito nets of the houseboat. A boy in an orange shirt rides his bike along the path. He stops and observes much like I have done numerous times the past few days. The sky has changed to a tranquil mixture of blue and pink. The Kingfisher calls while fish break through the water; creating rings that go on until reaching one of the fields of lily pads that line the shores. I am waiting for dinner to be served and I have to pinch myself to see if I am really here. The "slap, slap, slap" of women doing laundry in the river brings me back to reality. While walking around the village today it became quite clear that I am a very lucky person.

I am in paradise.

The sun is almost completely gone now. There are lights from other houseboasts and villages that reflect in the water. The hum of the fan is the loudest noise around. Scott sits at the table behind me writing his journal. We both had to document this part of our trip. I feel peaceful. I feel happy. I feel like all is right in the world. . I know that last one is cheesy, but it is true. Looking out along the placid, horizon I am calm and centered. I am trying to commit this moment in time to memory. Photos and words simoly won't do. India is an amazing place.

Next day . . .

I am lazily gliding down the backwaters, covered by green and beauty. "It wasn't a dream." is what both Scott and I were thinking when we woke up this morning. We spent some time palying Rummy 500. I won. It has been documented.

It has been nice to be on the boat and only think about the boat. My mind wonders through all of the sites I have seen so far and I am grateful. I am so much more aware of my own life and what is important to me. That might sound bad, but I cannot help but think about how fortunate I am in my life.

Kerala pineapple is the best pineapple in the world. India wine . . . . not so much.

This is something I will always remember.