My third week

A few pictures.  1st is the front gate of my building.  The second is a side street (nice to walk) and the last two are the street in front of the apartment.  The picture was taken when the traffic was light but it can be crowded and VERY noisy.  Honking is a constant annoyance but it's everywhere.

On Sunday I got together with Melinda to see her new apartment in GK1 area.  There were quite a few more Westerners in her area that I see in CR Park.  It's about a 15 minute walk to her place which is very reasonable.  I have located  a few Yoga studios within walking distance from my apartment.  Looking forward to getting involved with the community.  Vishwa, from the office offered to drive me to locate the yoga studios.  That's really nice!  He told me a lot about his culture and how the family bond is really strong. As a child he was always taught to help others and do what he can to be a good person.  He says that he was hesitant to offer his help to me as I was "an elder" and a scientist, which he said was intimidating.  I assured him that even though I am a scientist I am not any different from anyone else and that we are all equals.  Now, that elder comment...  No worries, he is only 34.

Anyway I appreciated his assistance, it takes some of the stresses out of finding the places as it's not easy to find streets and locations here.  Google maps are not very good nor detailed for this area. I went to two places.  The first sounded better but it was new and there wasn't anyone in the studio when I arrived and there should have been a class.  It was quite nice for things here.  No AC though, but lots of fans!  The next place was closer to my apartment.  There were people in class and one of the reasons for joining is to have human contact.  I decided to try this one this morning.  It was only a 10 minute walk.   I went to the 7 am class.  I was the only one!  Had a personal lesson.  Not very relaxing Yoga, more calisthenics, and short stretching.  No AC.  He actually helped me get in a few positions, which I think I am paying for that now!  He believes that back bends are good for achy backs so we did lots of these and a few sun salutations, quickly.  As I said it wasn't realizing nor great stretching, but I have been saying that I should start doing exercises, and this might be what is planned for me.  Of course, I will be careful.  I joined for a month to see how it goes.  I will probably attend the evening class at 7:30 so the sun will not be so strong at that time to lessen the heat of the day.

The high today was 120 degrees and now at 10 pm it is 106.  I just downloaded a weather app on the ipad and it displays all the time the current temperature.  Wow- that ipad!
Tomorrow I head to Agra (Taj Mahal) and Jaipur with Melinda and JC.  We will leave at 2 pm and return on Sunday evening.  Should be a good weekend.  I'll let you know all about it!