Wedding and a bummer Sunday

Went to Cheena;s brothers wedding last night. It was nice. To my surprise it was very casual. People and family involved in the wedding were dressed really nicely but others were very casual. I was expecting lots of beautiful saris and jewelry, in that respect it was disappointing But otherwise nice. Loud DJ, at least 7 photographers/videos, lots of food, lots of wait staff.
 At first they blessed the rings, the first picture.
There is a lot of exchange of gifts between families.  The brides family gives gifts to the grooms and then the grooms family gives gifts to the brides family.

pic

Next This is Cheena, my co-worker with her Dad.  Just like at work, we see each other in very informal dress and then viola - they are extravagant.  Those shoes!!!  She looked beautiful.  It was Cheena's brother who got married and I believe she is the one who organized the entire event.


It was difficult to get any  pictures as the photographers took up the stage.  There were lights set up, wires and people.  As the audience cannot see what's happening there are TV screens capturing the live events - interesting! 

It is very common that the bride is given jewelry - look at that gold!  Not only did they get jewelry the happy couple also got a Honda Civic. 
One thing that was interesting to me was some of the men's attire. I captured a picture of Prem, our driver, with this fella all decked out in a nice outfit with ELF shoes - the toes are curled up!  Wild. 

It was a nice event and I am really glad I was able to participate.  Actually spent quite a bit of the time talking with a woman from Germany who was in India volunteering.  Ah, when you see a "white" person I immediately feel a connection as we are "outsiders".  She is on a spiritual journey - young and searching.

 Today is Sunday and I was so excited as I had a plans with a woman I met in exercise class. Gave her a call this am and she was on her way to Mumbai as she is moving there ASAP.  Bummer for me.  It was a beginning to have a connection with a local.  Oh well...
In the mornings at the park I walk around I hear something that sounds like a pool.  This is VERY surprising to me as I haven't seen any pools.  As my plans have changed for the day I started searching for pools and yes, my hearing was correct.  I am excited as it is so close by and its a club.  I'll just join...  Walked over there, about 10 minutes.  Got shuffled to the manager, another disappointment - they only allow natives!  If I know someone who belongs, then I can accompany them but otherwise - NO.  On my walk back home I am thinking who I could ask to join (I really do not have many options on that front).  Oh well, I guess it was not meant to be.  WHY NOT????

My highlight today was to Skype with Iris.  Iris is amazing, so full of energy.  She just visited the Grand Canyon and soon off to Glacier Natl park and she does it all on her own!  I can relate to wanting something and then going for it.  Ah yes all those beautiful places.....

Tomorrow I'll go for my morning walk and listen to people doing laps in the pool.