Spot- Run- Twirl- Kisses.
So I have to apologize- it has been well beyond forever since I last blogged. With a few trips to Ranchi and Elizabeth being here, I’ve struggled to find time to sit down and write a blog!
So, things have been hustling as usual. Today has been my first “slow” day in about a week. So to catch you all up, I have successfully managed to create a running path along the outside of the soccer field here. With random bricks, rocks and sticks- I was a bit hesitant on running here in the dark (let’s remember we all wake up around 5am…) With that in mind, and determination in my blood, I asked if I could use the “lawn mower” and create a little path through the tall grass. Well, a few blisters later, I’ve created a fantastic path! The mower was just a spinning blade- no electric machine here. Elizabeth played paparazzi and got a few shots of me hackin’ away. I will add those soon!
Yesterday, we sadly had to take Elizabeth back to Ranchi to head home. On the way into Ranchi, we stopped at an incredible hotel for lunch. It was the first time in 3 weeks I have not eaten at a children’s home. Oh. My. Gosh. It was buffet and for 3 of us it was about $25…not bad! I have never, ever stuffed my face like I did there. Just the fact that I could eat meat (spicy Chinese chicken) made my day! Needless to say, I took full advantage of eating as much as I possibly could. 24 hours later and I’m still full.
So, coming to India and knowing I was going to be working with children, I knew I would fall in love. I was sure that I would find some precious little child and melt. While I melt with every child here (seriously- they are all priceless) I have found ‘’the one that gets me.”
Everyday from 5-6 the children all head outside to play games before prayer and dinner. The other day I was playing outside when I started making eye contact with this one little girl running around in a light blue hoodie. Every time she would catch me lookin’, she would giggle and run away….then giggle and run away etc etc etc. I found out her name is Priety (like pretty) and I have been on a extreme mission to get to know this child. I found out where she lives and paid that house a special visit. She was there….I melted again. So the big kicker. Last night I got back from Ranchi just in time to run out and play with the kids. No matter how long, hard, tough, happy whatever the day is- playing with the kids will ALWAYS make it better.
Anyway- I ran outside and had little Priety right at my toes. Of course we played around with many of the other children (who are extremely fascinated with my $9 Wal-Mart watch- especially when it “beeps”). So, in the middle of playtime, I ran and had a small conversation with Sosan on the side of the field. Mid convo, I looked over to see Priety heading my way. I crouched to the ground and Priety picked up pace -moving her 3-year-old legs faster than anything! Right at me she came, charging, big smile and a large squeal. It was great. Of course I picked her up, swung her around, threw her in the air- did that whole thing. I really just can’t help myself.
SOOOO- as I’m holding her (while she is giggling away) I looked over to see what another kid was up too. While I looked away, I felt this little peck of 3-year-old lips on my cheek. Whoa- she was giving me kisses! Children here are adorable and you definitely shower them with love- it is just a bit harder to get affection back. Understandably. So, of course once I realized that I was getting kisses I practically fainted. Then processed to give a few back J
Spot- Run- Twirl- Kisses.
Makes for a good day.
Much love from India,
Katelyn
