Today’s blog is compliments of the kids. They talked about what to write on our five hour trek. We began our day in Syange and ended in Tal (meaning lake in Nepalese), crossing into the Manang district. We crested over a steep rise and the valley opened in front of us with colorful houses, flat streets paved with river rock and flagstones. Each day we are welcomed at the end of our days’ trek with tea (green, black, lemon or ginger) and coconut biscuits. Yum!

Some questions about Nepal. Blog back if you know the answers! Prizes!

1. What is the currency of Nepal?
2. What type of government does Nepal have?
3. How many people live in Kathmandu?
4. What is the time difference between Evergreen, CO and Nepal?
5. Mount Everest in Nepal is part of what mountain range?
6. What national tragedy marked 2001 for Nepal?
7. Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world. What is its local name?
8. What is the name of the Nepalese football (soccer) team? Who is on it?

For the first time, we met mules today. At first, they were a big surprise and fascinating to us. Let’s just say that very soon we never wanted to see one again. Mule caravans passed us on the trail frequently. The mules had simple saddles on their backs, and many had decorations on their heads, necks, bells and saddles. We watched the mules cross one of the narrow bridges along the trail. They were very uneasy and hesitant about crossing, but with much persuading, made it. It was kind of funny. The last few days, we have been seeing water buffalo that are used in the fields. But now, there are no more water buffalo. Up here, they are used as food. Donkeys, mules and horses and mainly feet are used up here as transportation.

Going over “Long, Hot Pass” (no really… that’s the name on the map) we saw a person carrying four layers of five chickens in each layer in a special chicken-carrying backpack. Most impressive was a group of ten men carrying a new cell phone tower over the pass on foot. The phone tower was lashed to two long poles. I do not think they are getting paid enough to do that particular job.

Of great interest and discussion are the toilets. Basically, foot rests with an opening. A bucket of clean water is nearby to flush and a trash receptacle. The kids have no problem splashing that water around and at home need to be reminded at times to flush. When compared to our standard facility with a seat that is shared by everyone, the kids have concluded that this is much more sanitary. They think we should get one for home. So, guests to the stiller house are forewarned.

Everyone wishes a Happy Thanksgiving break to their teachers and classmates.