Sunday, December 28, 2008

in Koidikanal




Today is Dec. 27 and I am in Koidikanal, a hill station 4 hours drive from Coimbatore. I am here with Manoj and his friends from high school in Kelowna, Cara Christensen and Joseph Frigault.The trip up the mountains was spectacular and we are enjoying the cooler weather, the lush vegetation and the beauty of this hill station. Today we went out on a paddle boat on the lake and tomorrow we plan to hike and go horseback riding.

Christmas was incredible. Manoj and Arun decided to use the donations I brought to put on a very happy celebration for the orphanage that I spoke about in my last post. My new friend, Julia, the Hungarian woman I met in the supermarket, also came and shared the occasion.
We fed nearly 200 people and put on a song and dance show--some of it done by the children.
Each child received an individual gift as well we bought lots of sports equipment for the older children and toys for the younger ones. The photo above is of Cara and Joseph wrapping gifts for the children. The Indian man is our wonderful host in Coimbatore. Youth Helping Hands members did a great job of putting this event together very professionally and I must say I am so impressed by their dedication and their skills. The picture at the top is of a Youth Helping Hands meeting planning the event.
We will return to Coimbatore in time to celebrate New Years, then off to Isha Yoga Ashram for 3 days.

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