Last 2 days in Kathmandu

I just spent an incredible day! Amberwas moving into his new home today and i helped load and unload furniture....hang curtains...clean a bit and try to just lend a hand. It is a small 2.5 story house....more ranch size units...The first floor is done and the other 1.5 uppers will be done within the year.The entire house including foundation has been done by hand....no electric orair tools...all by hand.
It is a beautiful place outside Kathmandu....away from all the congestion and noise with a beautiful view of the mountains and jungle!
I did not take any pictures because Amber wanted to wait until it is totally finished.
I was honored to be part of the house and family purification and blessing ceremony that was performed by two monks from the local monastery! They chanted scriptures and built a small triangular shaped fire where Amber and his family offered varios plants,grains,milk,rice and spices!
Then we were all asked to kneel in front of the monks whom pured purified,medicinal water into our cupped hands....which we then sipped and spread the rest on our heads,hearts and body!
I was honored that they asked me to take part in such a moving ceremony!
It is something I will always remember!!
I leave for home tomorrow night at 10:00pm and will arrive in Buffalo at around 6;00pm the 15th of July!
In my days in Kathmandu I have met some wonderful people both local and foreign!
We have shared stories over lunches and dinners and developed bonds that i am sure will continue to last.They are all"Seekers' who journey not only throughout the world exploring new places and cultures ....but they are also constantly,passionately working for the good of all!
When i return and have a chance to relax and recharge i will write more about these people...where they come from and how they have helped so many!
I have also grown very familiar with "getting around" in Kathmandu....where to get the cheapest taxi, the best meal ....how to negotiate the maze of narrow twisting streets!
I am looking forward to coming home for awhile! Being with Sue,Ben,Matt and all my loved ones!
And continuing our efforts to help through The Himalayan Education Development Project!
We have many new projects to promote and two ongoing projects which we have completed in less than 6 months!
After a brief rest time I have to get back to my training regiment....because I will be heading back here again to to trek into the Everest Basecamp area and climb Island Peak (20,305 ft) for the second time!
This will be special because I will be with Jamestown feloow adventurer Ted Pasquale who has signed on to tackle this climb! We both bear the physical effects of year of athletics and adventuresome activities.....but as I told him....we will just go at "our pace" and with a good mental attitude and determination...we will give it our best!
Our Guide will,hopefully be Amber's younger brother, KB Tamang -2009 Everest summitter!
So we will be in very good hands!
Next time I write it will be from Lakewood NY....so until then my best to you all and my heartfelt thanks to all who have helped and continue to help make wonderful things possible for so many!
Amber and i send our best wishes to you all and KEEP ON WORKING TOWARD YOUR DREAMS!
Tillie