As crazy as it sounds....

There is just something heartwarming about the smell of Indonesia when you land at the airport. No, it's not necessarily a pleasant smell, but one that always reminds me of why I'm passionate about international development. And, no, I haven't been drinking too many bintang beers!

Had a great trip to Indonesia! I got to see Ruth and Jeff (my boss in Indonesia from my intern days), as well as several friends from SEAFAST. Lots of great opportunities for future activities in Indonesia, which makes me happy!

And....to top it off, I think Aaron and I are going to spend Christmas in Bali this year. Woooooooo hooooooooo!

Luck of the Irish....

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

India

I recently took a 2 week trip to India for work (man, I love my job!). Since it was my first time there, I took lots of photos. We had a great time, met some fantastic people and saw some of the most beautiful sites on earth. This trip included stops in Delhi, Agra, Bangalore, Mysore and Dharwad/Hubli. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves!! I need to download more pics, and once I do, I’ll post them!

Also….for those who think you can't gain weight eating Indian food, you're wrong! Even though we ate Indian cuisine every single meal, I still managed to gain weight! Oh well!

I'll post some of the India stories in a later blog....

Wish bracelets tied to a tree...

One of the gazillion Buddha statues

Wishes!

Authentic henna...yes, mom, it washed off.

Cheesy Taj photo...gotta love it!

Pictures don't do it justice....it was breathtaking.....

At the Taj

India Gate in Delhi

Anyone see the problem w/ this?! It was like this everywhere! Fortunately, there were no lightning storms while we were there.

spice market

Trying on traditional wedding saris....Ambassador Bost offered to sell me! Ha!

I'm looking forward to a return visit!!!

Fun with Friends in Austin!

Aaron and I are extremely lucky to have such an amazing group of friends! Over Valentines weekend we all met again in Austin to 1) meet baby Brogan (well, see him again); 2) to celebrate Jen's 30th bday; and 3) to hang out with some amazing peeps! We had a blast seeing everyone! One stark contrast from last year--Aaron and I were one of two couples with no kids! Babies everywhere! Oh yeah, and another difference....no drunken debauchery! Ha! It was fun watching all of our friends from college days turn into parents. Aaron and I will join you all some day!

Here are some pics from the event....

The group photo

Brook and Brogan

Childless couple :)

Carter...isn't he adorable?! And, he's getting so big!

Aaron & Lila Bridegam

Brogan & Patrick

Jen & Brogan

Shannon & Ro (so glad they surprised us and made the trip from Mexico!!!!)

Jen's delicious cake!

I'll post more pics later!