Utterly amazed at how this practice creates such intense body awareness! Yesterday I felt like a total waste of space – I was utterly wiped out - exhausted, no energy, hungry, irritable, and did I mention exhausted! I knew my ladies holiday was due anytime, and sort of figured the complete and total fatigue was due to the approaching menstruation…My lack of energy was so extreme I had to cancel my dance lesson and my Kanadda lesson…Spent most of my day sleeping and eating – that was the other kicker – I could not satiate my appetite…

Woke up this morning and all was ok – I definitely felt better and had more energy than yesterday. I actually had a rockin practice – got Pincha Mayurasana on the first go (I was so excited I couldn’t help but smile through up dog and down dog) – is my fear of lifting up gone? Maybe…When I got back in position to start on Karandavasana I looked up and noticed Saraswati looking at me with a big grin on her face – she must have seen me do Pincha Mayurasana – made me happy to see her smile at me! She came over to help with Karandavasana – I go up in Pincha alone and while I was there she told me to try one time on my own – her attempt to talk to me while inverted on my forearms threw me off a bit – but I gave it a go anyway (knowing, though, that I’d land hard on zee bum b/c I have a long way to go before I can bring my lotus legs down to my triceps with any sort of grace.) And lo and behold, after getting into lotus, I tried to bring myself down – and down I went – smack into the floor…I looked up at Saraswati and started to laugh – she laughed with me ;) On my second attempt she was there to help – she wiped my legs into lotus for me – the grabbed my hips and away we went – while I was in the asana (with her help of course) I was trying to figure out how in the world I find my balance point here – and before I could spend another breath contemplating it – she wiped my hips up into the air – I swung my legs up and then went down to Chaturanga…I thanked her graciously as she started to walk away. I spent another few minutes working on Karandavasana – usually have pretty good stamina to give it a go a number of times. No problems with Pincha Mayuranasa – yeah!!!! Managed to get myself into lotus and try to descend at least three more times – but all without success. It’s all good – practice, practice, practice…all is coming! I happily got down to the floor for backbends.

This is when I knew ‘ladies holiday’ was about to start. In backbends I felt odd sensations in my lower back all the way down to my hips…Like there was just no space there when there usually is…A bit painful actually. I did my usual dropbacks and then spent a few minutes working to grab my ankles – and I did several times – but each time I grabbed my ankles I simply couldn’t straighten my legs like I usually can. I swear I actually felt my internal organs while holding my ankles – felt that they were very swollen! “Hum…that is amazing,” I thought to myself as I was holding onto zee ankles. Never been this aware of my body before…I grabbed my own ankles at least four times today b/c I wanted to open up as much as possible before Saraswati got her hands on me – but the work I did didn’t open me up – seemed to make me feel tighter with each attempt. “Ugh, it’s really gonna be uncomfortable when Saraswati comes over to help me! How can I tell her I can feel my own swollen uterus and don’t think I should grab so deeply today?” In mid thought she came over to me – I opted to just do it! Down and up, down and up, down and up – and then boom…She placed my right hand to my knee, then my left. “Maybe she does sense something as she took me straight to my quads yesterday…Or not!” In the next instant she pulled my right hand up to the quad, then the left – I held on for dear life as I tried with all my might to strongly ground my feet and straighten my legs – but it just wasn’t happening today. I stood up – sat down – and got a soft squishy push in forward bend. When I looked up to the stage I frowned – all three spots were taken…Just a few minutes earlier and I would’ve gotten to finish on stage. “Oh well, what are you gonna do? You’re gonna to the frigid ladies locker room and close out – that’s what!”

When I stood up I felt so old – zee body was yelling at me, Did a gentle finishing sequence as I knew when I got into headstand that ‘my friend’ had most definitely just arrived to spend a few days with me. I was really astounded that I sensed it might arrive during or after practice – and thank goodness I’d been smart enough listen to my intuition and grabbed the necessary toiletries this morning as I left the house. After Shavasana I welcomed ‘ladies holiday’ and smiled at HIS impeccable timing – there is no class tomorrow because of the Ganesh festival, and Saturday is day of rest anyway – so I’ll actually be taking two full days in honor of ‘His almighty pain in my ass’ ;)

This is the infamous little 'Monkey Boy' that lives in Mysore. You can always find him hanging out somewhere in the city. He has grown quite a bit since I saw him last year - He is quiet, polite, and simply adorable. If you see him in Mysore, please do give him a few rupees!

Do you ever try to convince yourself to go to sleep? – As if your sane voice of reason can make that ‘other’ one shut the ..ck up! Such inner dialogue kept me up til after 11pm last night – way past Krista’s bedtime on a ‘school night.’ I tried to ‘put myself to bed’ around 9:30pm – but Krista wanted water, Krista wanted to use the potty, Krista wanted to mentally recap the day, and think about the one to follow… This was followed by Plan B – to fall asleep listening to music – fat chance – all I could do was listen intently to the words of each song – and the mellow beat didn’t seem to be mellowing me out… Plan C – read for a few minutes and try to lay down again… Somehow – Plan C ended up working – but only after about twenty minutes of reading, another trip to the potty, and another glass of water… Finally it seemed I’d be making my way to la la land ;) Children can be so difficult sometimes ;)’

Awoke to a beep, beep, beep sound coming from my alarm… “Dah…it’s already 3:30am! How has the night passed so quickly?” I hauled myself from bed, made my bed, and every so gingerly headed to the bathroom for zee lovely bucket bath. Ah, the life! Again this morning, I stopped in the street near a lovely little park on my way to practice. I looked up to the sky to find the brightest star – and it certainly didn’t take much time today because there were so many clouds trying to mask the infinite beauty of the sky above. Yet there were three visible clouds – and one was far brighter than the rest. I smiled and silently spoke to my daddy – long gone but always with me: “Good morning daddy, I love you! I miss you but can feel your presence here with me…Thank you for always watching over me, Kimberly, Kama, Mama, and the boys! Thank you for continually helping me find my way – for being my guiding light whenever it’s dark and lonely.” I put my hands together in prayer and kissed my fingertips before reaching my hands toward the sky – I believe my daddy can somehow reach down from heaven and grab the kiss I just sent to him.

As I stood at the top of my mat giving thanks for all that I have been blessed with, sending love and prayer to all those I hold dear, and working to center my body and my breath, I took an extra moment to ask for a deep inner focus during practice - to seek a little more guidance staying connected to each moment. It is true, if you ask the universe for what you want, you shall receive – I had a phenomenal practice – with all the bells and whistles – super strong bandhas, deep focused ujjayi breath, fierce drishi, an open body, and a couple extra ounces of determination today! Sweet!!!

I maintained a gorgeous moving meditation – until I got to Pincha Mayurasana. Behooves me how one can have such difficulty coming into a posture that didn’t used to be so fearful – I know that all I need to do is kick up a little bit higher and I’ll be balanced – but it’s something that is going to require some more time on the mat at the shala…Saraswati watched me as I attemped it by myself a few times – then she came over and stood over me – with her there I always come up b/c she is my wall – she stood there for about three breaths until she knew I was totally balanced – then she stepped away and watched me – I took five more breaths on my own and then descented into Chaturanga. Once Saraswati comes over to help me – the next attempt always seems successful – as was the case today. I got in position to do it again, this time totally on my own – and it was a piece of cake….Go figure…But Saraswati watched me the whole time – and when I came into updog she was smiling and told me to do Karandavasana today (She knows I can physically do Pinca Mayurasa no problem – she also knows it some fear inside I need to overcome – think that is why she is moving me forward.) Excited and nervous, I said, “OK!” I got into forearm balance – then she held my hips as I got into lotus, she swung my hips down and got my knees to rest of my triceps – she held me there for five breaths and then swung my hips back into the air – I released the lotus and balanced again in forearm balance – she let go of me and I jumped down into Chaturanga. ROCKIN…That is one STRONG woman…My bum is NOT light…She is my hero ;)

I happily lowered myself to the floor to begin backbends – and boy did I have some major energy, courage, and determination built up by then. Did some great work with backbends – usual three, stand up, drop back, stand up, drop back, then grab the ankles…Today I pushed myself harder – I grabbed higher at the calve – held longer and worked harder to straighten my legs more – then stood up. I proceeded to do this three more times before Saraswati came over to help me (one thing I really do LOVE about her – she allows me plenty of time to work on my backbends as much as I want – she sees the whole room and knows those people who want that extra time – she rocks!) And while she rocks – she is freaking demanding too! Today, she put my hands straightaway to my knees (expect this from now on) – but then she moved my hands above my knees – I was hold my own quadracip! When I felt my quad in the palm of my hand I couldn’t help but think, “What the ?>:”*&#$%^&*&^?>?>” After the initial shock – I held as strongly as I could, straightened my legs, and just kept breathing. Six or seven breaths later I gently peeled myself up to a standing position. As I did finished sequence on stage, I thought, “Wow, what an intense practice!”

Please visit World Trade Center Memorial today!

This museum is an amazing tribute to Americans who were lost; to Americans who were heros; and to Americans who gave their time to help. What you see here will touch your heart.

My latest book, “This Day in the Life,” is a delightful compilation of woman’s diaries from across America…Some are funny, some sad, others inspirational…I just read about one woman who is a diversity education program coordinator from Cincinnati – In one paragraph where she explained a bit about her job, I laughed so hard I almost wet myself – felt it was worth sharing!

I hold an information session for parents whose children are going to be freshmen in the fall. Parents are so strange. I can’t believe they expect us to police their children while they are in college. “My child is allowed to have overnight guests OF THE OPPOSITE SEX?” asks an Indian father. He reminds me of my dad, overprotective and perpetually concerned. “Yes, sir,” I say. “They are eighteen.” He huffs and puffs for several minutes. It’s the opposite sex part that bothers him. I joke to myself about how my parents were so concerned about boys, while I was having sex with other girls.

There are 1.2 Billion people living in India. So many people in this country – and only 20% live in the cities – that means 80% of 1.2 Billion people are living in rural areas…

The population in India is quickly reaching that of China…India and China account for 2.5 Billion of the worlds humans…(say it with me – 2.5 BILLION…my mind honestly cannot grasp such a figure – how about you?)

In 2002, there were 100,000 cell phone users in India – today there are over 50 million (more than the U.S.) Craziness…And, if one source is correct, 700,000 are added daily!

I had another lovely dance lesson with Sindhu today. She taught me the sixth Trebang, and we went over the first five trebangs and five chowkas. I am really getting the hang of Odissi – loving every second of it – and really love Sindhu!

And Kanadda…OMG I can’t get enough! Hema and I met from 6:45-8:15pm – and it seemed like we only spent five minutes together. She taught me tons more vocabulary tonight – but what I really love about her is that she spends a lot of time teaching me about the culture, while at the same time, teaching me the language…

The first bit of class was review of the vegetables, fruits, and animals

Then she taught me the months of the year:
January – Chaitra
February – Vyashaka
March – Marga
April – Pushya
May – Makha
June – Jashata
July – Aashada
August – Shravana
September – Badrapada
October – Ashvija
November – Karthika
December – Falghanu

The Planets:
Mercury – Mangala
Venus – Buddha
Earth – Buhoomi
Mars – Guru
Jupiter – Shukru
Uranus – Uranus
Saturn – Shanni
Neptune – Neptune
Pluto – Pluto

Numbers:
One – Onedhu
Two – Yaradu
Three – Mooroo
Four – Nalaku
Five – Idhu
Six – Aru
Seven – Yolou
Eight – Yentu
Nine – Wambathu
Ten – Hatu
Eleven – Hanandhu
Twelve – Hanaerdhu
Thirteen – Hadimoru
Fourteen – Hadinalaku
Fifteen – Hadinaydhu
Sixteen – Hadinaru
Seventeen – Hadinalou
Eighteen – Hadininthu
Nineteen – Hatombathu

Twenty – Epathu
Thirty – Movathu
Forty – Nalvathu
Fifty – Ivathu
Sixty – Arvathu
Seventy – Yapathu
Eighty – Yambathu
Ninety – Tombathu
One hundred – Nuru

To make 21-29, 31-39 etc…You simply add the number (say twenty and one – Epathuonedhu – sounds a little different when they are connected but really simple nonetheless.)

And we ended our lesson with more information about food. We talked about some spices, their Kanadda name, what they are used for, if they have medicinal value – what – and how to create the concoction…She even had her helper bring out almost all the spices so I could see, touch and taste them!! I love Hema! She has invited me to come have lunch with her one day – I told her I’d love to but would like to actually watch her make the foods so I can see how she prepares things. She has even said she’d like to take me to the market before I leave so I can put my newly acquired knowledge of fruits, veggies, and spices to use! I am so stoked!!!

Powder – Pudi
Bhala – Dal
Rice – Akki
Ragi – Ragi
Chick pea (toor dal) – too gri bhala
Green gram (with husk) – hasru kalu
Green gram dal (without husk) – hasaru bhala

- Dal creates gas – so don’t eat too much and when you make it you should add asatafotidi (a pinch of it in its powder form) to help counterbalance the gas created by dal.
- There are MANY types of beans in India – the season should dictate which beans you eat…some beans are cooling, some create heat etc...
- Each planet in the solar system has grains that correspond to it – so you should eat specific grains on specific days as well as specific seasons.
- In Hindi religion people don’t eat any meat on Mondays (b/c of respect for Shiva), Thursdays (b/c of respect for Raga Vendra and Sai Baba), and Saturdays b/c of Lord Vishnu (Saturday most important day to refrain from eating meat.)
- Chili Powder – Achakardha Pudi (it doesn’t really have any taste per se – it is meant to help secrete juices and saliva and also flavor other foods you eat with it)
- Coriander powder – kotmuri pudi (medicinal value – helps relieve menstrual pain)
- Turmeric – Haldi (it works as an anti-septic – all foods are washed with Turmeric before cooking or serving)
- Cumin – jeera – jeeraga (it removes all toxins in the body – also aids in digestion)
- Black pepper corn – good for colds (mix one glass of water with three pepper corns, three garlic cloves, and three curry leaves – boil together and drink slowly)
- Ajwain – Omkalu (it removes gas from the body – you can boil the tiny seeds in water and drink – or you can slowly chew it on its own – also used with cooking as it has a nice flavor and helps with digestion)
- Fennel – Somfu (also good for digestion – this is often what is given after dinner at restaurants here in India – often times coated with sugar for taste – but really has a hint of sweetness on its own!)
- Jaggary (a sweet taste like sugar but much better for you – it aids in digestion and also retains all its nutrients when added to cooking.)

I asked Hema before leaving if it would be possible to meet three days this week instead of two. She said that was fine! So I’ll be meeting with her on Wednesday and Thursday this week (and possibly move up to four or five days next week!) – Told you I just can’t get enough…

Today has been a fantastic day – yes yes I say that almost daily – but its true – I am loving every second of my time in Mysore…I am so extremely grateful – words cannot express…I feel like the luckiest person on earth – doing all the things I want to do – having the time and ability to do them – blessed to have the most amazing teachers – blessed to continue to grow as a person, continue to open my mind to new heights; continue to respect, appreciate, and value each and every day, each and every moment – and isn’t that what its all really about? To live in this moment – and to be content? For the first time in my life I can truly say – I GET IT…

After every storm comes a rainbow! Practice this morning seemed glorious after the hellaciously difficult one yesterday. I enjoyed a lovely walk to the shala – still very dark outside – I could see the stars in the sky…It has been a habit of mine, since I was a little girl, to pick out the brightest star in the sky – I imagine it to be my daddy! So this morning, on the way to practice, I stopped in the middle of the quiet road and stared up to the sky for a few minutes – smiling inside and out – I spent a few minutes looking for my father. When I found him I sent him kisses. Felt wonderful to connect with him – haven’t in a while. It set the tone for a wonderful practice – when I got to my mat I spent several minutes breathing – and dedicating my practice to all the people I hold dear – of course my father was on the top of my list! And as often happens, I could feel his presence with me this morning through practice – there is no better feeling in this entire world ;) I silently chanted my opening mantra – and then was off on a beautiful flowing moving meditation. Better than it has been in a long while – I was so deep in the midst of the moment – my drishti was super strong, breath and bandhas controlled, body loose and light…

Was quite lovely to do the opening mantra with Saraswati this morning – and to have her assist me in every asana that I need help with – Supta Vajrasana, Pincha Mayurasana, and Drop backs. As I was feeling good physically, I spent a good deal of time with backbends today – it’s been a while since I – 1) had time to work on grabbing my ankles on my own, and 2) felt strong enough to…Today I did – back was a little tight but still able to do some good work. When Saraswati came over to assist me – she didn’t mess around. As she helped me grab my hands to my legs she put them straightaway on my knees (man is she intense – Sharath usually places them a bit lower and then moves them up after a breath or two.) After she gave me a nice adjustment in forward bend, I grabbed my mat, my towel, my tissues, and myself – and headed to the stage to close. I noticed it was 6:05am when I headed to the stage – figure it takes about ten minutes to do closing – and when I came to from Shavasana it was 6:30am…Wow, a nice 15 minute Shavasana – rockin ;)

I gave my respects to Saraswati – and I can’t begin to tell you how good it makes me feel inside every morning to do so – as she always looks over and gets a huge grin on her face when I put my hands together and give her a little bow to thank her for her presence, grace, love, and devotion. Love that woman!

Went outside and saw Sharath dressed and ready to go somewhere – he smiled and said, “good morning!” I smiled back and told him good morning – he said he liked my yoga mat bag – it’s a backpack bag that I picked up from Annanda – fellow yogi who created a rockin back sack for your mat – not something I’d really use so much in the states – but when you have a fifteen plus minute walk to and from the shala – lets just say it makes life much easier. I smiled to Sharath and said, “thank you!” Then I walked out of the gate and realized that our coconut guy wasn’t there – nor was his truck full of coconuts…Hmmm….Odd…Never come out of the shala – ever – and he wasn’t there ready to chop open a coconut with his machete. Hope he’s ok. Since I simply couldn’t break my daily ritual of having at least two tasty and hydrating coconuts (my type A personality shining through) I walked up the road to the infamous ‘coconut stand’ to get my fix. As I walked up I saw several other yogis’s doing the same – ha! Enjoyed two coconuts, had a chat with Erin – and then opted to head to the gym…I know I’m a bit odd – but don’t we all know this by now? I just jumped on the eclipse machine and did thirty minutes of cardio – as I knew it’d give me a much needed burst of energy – and I have a very long day ahead of me…And it did the trick – first ten minutes were a bit rough – but the last twenty were rockin – as was I – rockin to some good tunes on my I-pod. That done I headed back to Tina’s for my second shower of the day.

Perfect timing! By the time I showered and dressed – it was 8am – time for breakfast!
My appetite seemed insatiable this morning – luckily a bowl of oatmeal, four egg whites, and a fruit salad did the trick! I also enjoyed the delightful company of Jake, Erin, Elise, Petra, John, Lisa, and some other nice yogi’s. It’s almost time to head to my Odissi lesson – and feeling full of energy – stoked b/c some mornings zee body isn’t quite ready for dance at 11am. Really attribute it to the cardio after practice – maybe I’ll try it a few more times and see if I get the same result!

After my nap, I went to a little veggie stand to buy some eggs, tomatoes, and onions. Then I came home and made a mean veggie omelet – which I ate with great pleasure. I spent a good hour or more reading my latest book – then opted to make way to the Southern Star to continue reading in the sun! Yes, the sun was shining beautifully today – hot as all get out. When I got to the pool it was nice and quiet – as I’d hoped it would be – today has been a ‘Krista’ day – I’ve enjoyed the solitude – yearned for it actually. I spent 2 ½ glorious hours by the pool, adding to my newly acquired tan. Around 1pm several other yogis arrived and gathered around one another – I’ve seen these people at the shala – but haven’t the slightest idea their names – and kept it that way as ‘Krista’ day didn’t include meeting new people ;) By 2:15pm I had had enough of the sun – could’ve stayed longer, but my internal thermometer was reaching an all time high – “time to get out of the sun!” I got dressed and happily made my way to the main road to grab a rickshaw.

I immediately grabbed one – told him to please take me to Gokulam and asked that he use the meter – he said, “30 rupees Madame!” I said, “No, please use the meter!” He told me his meter wasn’t working – and I realized it wasn’t – I also realized I’d paid 40 rupees on the way here. So I said ok and hoped in. The driver was young, and quite pleasant – we spoke a little on the way home – broke my “Krista day doesn’t include meeting new people rule!” His name is Santhosh and he is 23. He asked me my name, my age, where I’m from, etc…I was impressed by his English. As we approached contour road I asked if he minded stopping at the coconut stand for two minutes so I could enjoy a coconut – he didn’t mind at all – I hoped outta the rickshaw and delighted in a very hydrating, delicious coconut. That finished I hoped back into the rickshaw and he took me to Tina’s. He told me I could call him if I ever wanted to go into the city or anything. That was how I met Girish last year – I thought he was a good driver and we exchanged numbers – the rest is history as he was and now is my primary form of transportation here in Mysore. I asked Santhosh if he had a cell phone – he did – so I told him to give me his number and I’d call him if/when I needed his services. For some reason I felt a little like I was ‘cheating on Girish’ ;) but whatever…There have been a handful of times this year that Girish has not available – like today he is in Bangalore. So perhaps Santhosh’s assistance will be useful in the future. As I was getting out of the rickshaw I handed him 35 rupees – he tried to give me five back – I shook my head no – for him to keep the extra 5 rupees, thanked him and headed inside.

I came inside, hung up my bathing suit, changed clothes, grabbed my computer – and walked to Anu’s. Ganesh and Anu are out of town til tomorrow – but Ganesh told me I could use the wireless upstairs if I wanted. When I arrived no one else was there. I sat down and spent a little over an hour on the World Wide Web. How sweet it is to be able to stay connected to the rest of the world ;) While I was at Anu’s it began to downpour – I was very happy I was no longer at the pool, was happy I was at Anu’s under shelter and not walking, was happy the internet was still working…and in the midst of all the happy thoughts I was having – I realized, “Shit! My laundry is drying at Tina’s!” Oh well – one unhappy and three happys – not too shabby. Hunger began to engulf my belly and my brain – as soon as the rains stopped I packed up and headed back home.

Just finished me dinner – yeah! I plan to spend the rest of my evening reading and writing – so sweet to have the time to indulge in my passions.

Heavy, sooo heavy…That is the overwhelming feeling that preoccupied my thoughts as my alarm went off this morning. “Man, I really could sleep in today!” Despite the conversation – or attempted persuasion of the ‘other’ voice in my head – I pulled the covers from my body and lifted myself to a seated position – where I stayed for at least three minutes. I was bewildered by the feeling of stiffness, tiredness, and heaviness in my body and my mind. “What is this,” I thought to myself. I made my way to the bathroom for my morning bucket bath – which helped a little – but not enough. I continued to feel dazed as I got ready for practice, as I walked to practice, and as I practiced. Today was BY FAR the hardest practice I’ve had since I arrived in Mysore. Why? Dunno…My body was extremely stiff – thinking b/c of dance, lots of walking, and thirty plus minutes of peddling that darn swan boat yesterday. “Oh well – sometimes practice is like this!”

When I arrived at the shala there were a lot of yogis already there waiting for the gate to open. It opened really late today – around 4:55am…When I went inside I took my preferred primary led practice place in the room (spot on the far right wall way back closest to the office door). Went into the changing room to remove my long sleeve shirt, put my mat bag away, and empty my bladder before practice. As I was heading out the door I heard the opening mantra start without me… “Oh no…must hurry!” I was a bit surprised to see only Saraswati on stage – leading the chant and then the class – sort of assumed it would have been Guruji – but he was no where in sight. I was excited to experience a led class with Saraswati – never have before…Only hate that today, when Saraswati was teaching, my body didn’t want to be there - far and away my worst practice yet…In addition to the fact that my body was not cooperating, my mind was all other the place, my breath was choppy, still have a bit of a cough and stuffy/runny nose…Add to that the fact that I did something to my left forearm in Friday’s led class (the musculature near my bone is really sore – on Friday it really began to hurt doing jump backs, jumpthroughs, and Chaturanga’s – great!) – today it hurt even worse – really had to baby it – couldn’t jump back at all and jumping through was really painful….Oh man…don’t know what I did but don’t think it’s gonna go away anytime soon. Must baby it – must get a wrap to put on it – maybe need to see a doctor about it…So, needless to say, practice sucked…I vividly remember thinking of how I may be able to leave early – but of course I didn’t – but the pain in my arm was really overwhelming today….Ugh…When practice was over I was SO grateful…Grateful I did my practice despite the pain and stiffness, and soreness, and heaviness, and you get the picture – but also truly grateful my practice was now OVER! I went outside, enjoyed three hydrating coconuts, and very slowly walked home to Tina’s. Once I got there, unlocked my door, changed my clothes, and turned off the lights – I literally fell into my bed to nap for a bit and allow my body to ‘take rest!’

A pretty leisurely day…Had a small breakfast at Tina’s, spent a bit of time with John, went to my dance class, headed to the city to see the progress of my bags and ship some items, came home and showered, and met up with Jake, Joyce, Mani, and Erin at coconut stand so we could head out to the lake nearby Chamundi hill.

The infamous coconut stand - yummy coconuts!

Joyce and Mani

Me, Joyce, and Erin

It was beautiful there – and we were in for a special treat – we got the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride – it was a swan boat that you maneuvered with your feet – Erin and I peddled for the first ten minutes, then Mani took Erin’s place and we finished the last twenty minutes. I quickly learned that peddling too fast causes water to come into the boat and hit the ‘drivers’ with water – needless to say my bum got soaked more than once – I couldn’t help it I was really excited to peddle the boat with my feet (and while I did peddle the entire time – no one else really cared to – so I wasn’t a ‘peddle’ hog or anything ;) The weather was lovely, and the view gorgeous. We all seemed to have a grand ole time at the lake today – got some great photos too! Afterwards Mani dropped the rest of us off at a Punjabi restaurant on Kalidasa road. I was Starving and impatient to get my food. Jake made fun of me and Joyce sympathized with me…I think I ate a bit too much, but hey, shit happens. I just got home – I am sitting on my bed regretting the last few bites of food I ingested – hope I don’t feel too heavy for practice tomorrow…Which is at 5am – Sharath informed us on Friday that there is only one class tomorrow – led primary at 5am L no more led second on Sundays. Can’t say I’m too upset about it – but after a few weeks of it – I got a little attached…I plan to hit the sack soon - hope to get good nights sleep.

Can you believe that is my hair? I couldn't...

I'm peddling baby!

Mani and I combing forces to stear the swan ;)

Manu, Joyce, Erin, and Jake

Yes, we are complete and total DORKS!

Me Bum...Told you it was SOAKED - thank Jake for this lovely photo opp.

Me Crocs! They Rock!

Beautiful eh!

I had to run down the stairs b/c the security guard was getting pissed - we'd stayed past closing time - opps...

I think i can fly ;)

Another candid shot of our dorkiness

Jake and Mani chillin...

Holy Cow….Today’s practice was sooo hard! Granted, I only got 3 ½ hours of sleep last night, and my body was exhausted from the three hours on non-stop dancing I did at High Octane til 11:30pm – but regardless of all that – it was still a really challenging practice! Everyone said so afterwards…Today was Sharath’s last day teaching at the shala til January, and he led the primary series class. He went really, really, really slow through all the more difficult postures – practice went about an hour and forty minutes. I remember telling myself, “Krista you can do this girl – no problem!” Standing was ok, not too hard but not too easy – seated was actually rockin til we got to Navasana (my heat was strong and breath great – but my energy petered out by Navasana.) At any rate, I made it through – and damn glad to be finished.

I came home and took my second shower of the morning, then headed to the coconut stand to meet Reinaldo. We walked back to Tina’s and had a delightful breakfast – I gorged myself ;)

Around 10:30am I called Erin to see if she wanted to enjoy a day at the pool with me – as it looked like the sun would be out for a while. Girish picked us up and took us to the Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel – it was sooo nice b/c Erin and I were the only people laying out by the pool. We spent the first hour talking – really got to know each other better today. The second hour by the pool I took a siesta – sweet! When I woke up I felt a lot of heat on my front body – oh boy I got burnt today…By backside and front side – although I didn’t realize I’d also burnt the backside of my body for another hour – as I had laid on my tummy to nap so it took a little time for the sun’s vitamin D (among other things) to set in properly. Oh well – I tend to turn a nice golden brown a day or two after burning – so no worries…Dance may be a little uncomfortable tomorrow though (I had called Sindhu earlier today and asked if we could move today’s lesson to tomorrow – as my body was done for from last nights dancing – simply couldn’t imagine doing Odissi today).

After changing clothes, Erin and I enjoyed a delightful lunch at the hotel (neither of us has ever eaten there and we were both pretty hungry – so we gave it a go.) Although a bit pricey by Indian standards (i.e. about $10.00 for lunch), the atmosphere was lovely, the food excellent, and service fantastic. Girish had opted to wait for us b/c it would have been difficult to get a rickshaw from there – so he was outside napping when we left. He took us into the city to Ashok bookstore so I could grab a conversational Kanadda book – then we ran by Barti’s shop so I could pick up the two sample bags made from my newly discovered material. They looked great – very happy about that.

Now Erin and I are about to go get our toes did ;) Need a pedicure in a bad way - and I'm sure Erin feels the same way. On the way home I desperately need to purchase some aloe lotion for my oh so cherry red body...

Dance was great today – tending to be the trend as I’m getting better with each session – and I fully enjoy Sindhu’s company – she is such a lovely lady. I learned another move today and spent a good deal of time reviewing the others I’ve already learned – explained to her I’d like to slow down a little and really perfect what we’ve gone over thus far. She told me she’s been going really fast with me because I’m picking things up so quickly (I was totally shocked when she told me this b/c I definitely don’t feel as though I am.)

After class I walked home and took a quick shower as I had to meet Karen and Reinaldo at the coconut stand at 1:30pm. The three of us walked to Gheeta’s house so Karen could see the one room flat (she may rent it – wants to think about it), and we grabbed John so he could join us for lunch. The four of us made our way to the Southern Star (Reinaldo and I gorged on the buffet, while John and Karen opted for the Veggie Burger.) We had to have spent at least 2 ½ - 3 hours there chatting away about all kinds of things – a lovely lunch.

I rode back to Gokulam with John (side saddle b/c I actually wore a skirt today – made me feel pretty ;) Side saddle is very scary, especially on the back of a motorcycle in India! But I trust John’s driving – I got home in one piece. I had about an hour to read and study my Kanadda before walking to my Kanadda lesson with Hema. I enjoyed a splendid walk to her school – the air was blowing my hair, the sun was starting to set, Jack Johnson was singing about Banana Pancakes [sigh]. I had to make tonight’s lesson a little short – left about ten minutes early so I could get back to Tina’s and change before heading to High Octane. Hema taught me more fruits and vegetables, the parts of the body (I’ve asked her to teach me muscles too as they will come in handy for me – she’s got to freshen herself up on that), colors, animals, and the days of the week (explained the meaning behind the words used for days – i.e. some days refer to gods, some to planets), and then taught me the colors you are to wear on each day (representing those gods or planets)….We went over so many words tonight – so I’m not going to list them all here – some days I might, but not enough energy to this evening. She is going to teach me like she teaches the little ones – i.e. use flash cards to quiz me when we meet, give me little exercises to help me – I told her I wanted her to do this with me as I think it will help me learn Kanadda easier to be quizzed daily with pictures that represent the things I’m learning. She’s also going to get me a good book on Kanadda and a workbook that I can use. I’m so stoked!

I grabbed a rickshaw home this evening (and the old man was a jerk – he refused to use the meter – quoted me 20 rupees (if I wasn’t in a hurry and there wasn’t a lack of rickshaws around I wouldn’t have let him drive me), and then only gave me 25 rupees change from my 50 rupee bill when I arrived at Tina’s. I tried arguing with him – but then gave up realizing it was his Karma not mine – and anyway it was only five rupees (although it should have been just 15 – but what’s 25 cents?)

I quickly changed clothes, brushed my hair and teeth, and was out the door. Grabbed another rickshaw (this time it was a young guy who’s always close by Tina’s – nice – and honest – he uses his meter!) He dropped me at High Octane where I was to meet Doug, Erin, Dot, Joyce, Jake, and a few others to enjoy some good dancing – Doug’s last night so we all opted to partake in hip hop night at High Octane. Let me just tell you – I had a blast!! And I finally met someone who likes to dance as much as me for as long as me ;) Erin and I were on the dance floor for three straight hours – drenched to the bone with sweat afterwards, but worth every ounce of lost sweat. We didn’t do any Odissi dancing; this was my personal favorite – booty shaking ;) Joyce was rockin hard with us too – but Erin and I were grooving. Everyone had a grand time – everyone danced and enjoyed each others company – and everyone seemed a bit exhausted when we left. Dot opted to leave early (smart move) – but the rest of us were having too good a time. 8:30-11:30pm…And when I realized it was actually 11:30pm (brain calculated that Krista wasn’t getting much sleep tonight – I decided to call it a night.) Doug, Erin and I shared a rickshaw – they were kind enough to drop me off first…I said goodbye to Doug – he was leaving for Bangalore in less than an hour to head back to London…I came inside, washed my face, brushed my teeth, removed my contacts, stripped the soaked clothes from my tired body, set my alarm for 3:30am (ugh..) – and fell into my bed around 12am.

The shala gate opened very shortly after I arrived today – was happy not to have to wait long as it was drizzling outside and I was already pretty wet from the walk up. I went inside and put down my mat, put my things away, and then went to speak to Sharath in the office. I said, “Good morning!” He smiled. I told him that Pam had emailed to find out about the situation with the shala during the month of December? He explained that it would be closed for at least two weeks – “I’ll have to ask my mother,” he said, referring to the exact dates. I thanked him and headed to my mat to begin my practice.

Today I found the perfect spot in the shala - the first spot in the first row closest to the main entrance door. There is no one in front of me, no one to my right, and far away from all ‘shala traffic.’ Beautiful! I dedicated my practice to Kwang today – made me smile to think of him ;) Practice overall was good, but I definitely noticed a lack of energy today – know it’s due to my cold ;( I prepared though and brought some tissues with me, which proved quite useful as I had to blow my nose at least six times throughout practice - felt a little bad for Trisha, who was to my left (can’t be too pleasant practicing next to a ‘snot face.’ Really took my time again today – which was necessary due to my lack of energy. When it came time for Pincha Mayurasana, I simply couldn’t seem to muster up enough courage – thought to myself, “Krista you are such a chicken shit!” Now I know this isn’t the type of positive affirmation I should be giving myself during asana, but the thought involuntarily entered my mind…I didn’t lack the determination though. Tried to come up but couldn’t get my body back far enough…tried again, failed again. I was exhausted – I rested in Balasana for about three breaths when I head Sharath say, “Krista!” Startled, I looked up and saw Sharath heading my way. He put his hands out to mimic Pincha Mayurasana – I shook my head yes, and got myself in position to make another attempt. He stood over me as I tried – failed – tried again and got it! He stayed above me as I took my five breaths, and then descended into Chaturanga. I looked up and smiled – I said, “fear!” He smiled back…

I got myself in position to begin backbends – did my three and stood up - did only one dropback on my own today as I always feel the need to rush a bit when Sharath is standing right in front of me. I crossed my arms and put my hands to my shoulders, he grabbed my waist and I began my three dropbacks. When I lifted from my third one he said, “Ok!” That’s my cue to stretch my arms overhead and start bending my body back. He always has me grab my left hand to my leg first, and then my right (interesting to me b/c Saraswati always has me start with my right!) I held tight for about three breaths, and then Sharath decided to pull my hands even higher (I couldn’t help but cringe silently – I was really tired this morning and wanted my practice to come to a close.) I held higher, took about four more breaths, and then stood up. He gave me a soft, gentle adjustment in forward bend – and let me rest there a bit longer…I grabbed my mat and made my way to the stage to do finishing. I’ve decided to just stick with the stage for closing sequence, unless it is full, because I seem to have a much better finish to my practice up there as opposed to the ladies locker room – partially because I don’t get harassed by mosquitoes up there, partially because it isn’t as cold as the ladies locker room, but primarily because I get to continue to benefit from the united energy in the main shala. It is lovely. Took a very long Shavasana – maybe ten or fifteen minutes.

I gave my respects to Saraswati and Sharath and then skipped outside for my morning coconuts – I was really excited to use a little Kannada ;) When I walked outside though, Bek saw me coming and had a coconut ready for me by the time I reached him. “Darn,” I thought…I drank my first coconut really slowly – then I looked to him and said, “Dhyvithu sweet elneeru codi” - “Please give me a sweet tender coconut!” Bek smiled at me and said, “Yes!” Rockin baby, rockin….Can’t wait till the day I can actually carry on a conversation in Kannada – long long way away – but all is coming ;)

I have been fighting an oncoming cold for the past few days, and today it decided to come out full force. I woke up with a sore throat, a cough (painful one at that), sneezing, headache, congestion, etc…After my bath I started to feel a little better and took time with my practice, which also helped. I seemed to be doing alright until about 9:30am when I headed to Anu’s for my daily internet fix. My energy really waned and my body became very achy. Ugh…. When I arrived at Sindhu’s she noticed I didn’t look too hot…We spent the first ten minutes of class talking about things I can do to prevent myself from taking in so much of the dust and pollution around – she explained it has a lot to do with all the walking I’m doing b/c I am constantly out in the streets with the horrible pollution from cars, dirt, scum, etc….She told me she would take me to a wonderful homeopathic doctor after our session. We took it pretty easy today. I have learned four of the ten Trebunks and four of the ten Chowkas – today we reviewed them all slowly, and she also taught me the fifth of each. I did very well with review – most certainly seem to be grasping things better – beginning to put together the hand and wrist movements, torso and rib movements, feet and leg movements, eye and head and neck movements together with more ease – actually beginning to look somewhat nice! But I did find the fifth Chowka difficult – think it was that I didn’t feel well and was hard to learn a new movement today. Sindhu was very kind, and extremely patient with me. She laughed a bit as I thanked her for all her patience in teaching me – (I feel like an idiot sometimes but she is ALWAYS extremely patient) – she explained that it is actually very easy to teach me b/c of my yoga – as I am strong so I have no soreness in legs and arms, I have a complete understanding of my body, moving my body, working with the information she gives – she said people whom she teaches who do not have a yoga background are very difficult. I was happy to hear that b/c I don’t feel like I am an easy student.

After our session she ran next door to pick up her children, and then we took a five minute walk to Dr. Mrs. Poornima Anand – the homoeopathic physician. She was lovely – very soft spoken yet strong, and beautiful. She asked me a series of questions, looked at my throat, listened to my breathing – and then used some ‘big’ medical terms to diagnose my condition – basically a bit of an infection in my throat, causing the congestion, stuffy head, headaches, body aches, cough, etc. She prepared little individual packets of a natural medicine for me. Said I was to take one three times daily for the next three days and I should be fine. It looks and tastes like little sweet pieces of candy (but it wasn’t – it’s really a dried concoction of herbs with a little honey mixed in for taste) – she told me to suck on the medicine and let it dissolve in my mouth. Less than two U.S. dollars later (including exam and medication) I was out the door. She was simply lovely! And I must say that stuff is amazing. I’ve taken all three dozes as prescribed and already feel a million times better – I’ve been blowing my nose all day (as she said I would – means the phlegm is clearing), my body aches, headache, and sore throat have subsided, and my cough is almost gone. Telling ya the natural way is the only way…Homeopathy…Very intriguing!

On my way back to Tina’s it began to rain – I didn’t care today – as I was about to go take a nice long nap and allow my achy body to rest for a bit before I resumed with my day. I came back to Tina’s – made a bit to eat – grabbed my book and laid on my bed – about twenty minutes later I was out cold. When I woke up about 1 ½ hours later I phoned Girish to come get me and take me to Barti’s shop. I was very happy to take care of that today. When I got there I happily observed the tailor working on one of my bags – was able to examine the great job he did stitching about twenty other bags, and spent about twenty minutes discussing what I wanted done with the new material I’ve discovered. Barti told me two sample bags would be ready early tomorrow afternoon ; - ) made my day!

Girish dropped me off close to the shala – as I wanted to check into housing…Saw Morti – he showed me one place that I wasn’t really a fan of. Stopped by to see Shiva (although I really didn’t want to go through him if at all possible) – luckily he didn’t seem to give two shits anyway – saw one house that had several flats within it (but immediately opted not to rent from this family as soon as I saw the house – for a friend of mine rented from them last year and said it was a nightmare.) That ‘no way Jose’ house was very close to Geetha’s house (where Shirley and John live) – so I stopped by to see if I could speak to Geetha about renting Shirley’s flat when she leaves. She was so very kind – her demeanor was gentle, her words soft spoken, and he energy wonderful (realized when I met her I really wanted to rent from her – after my experience last year with the Vas’ – I found her to be an amazing breath of fresh air.) We discussed what was included in the flat, the cost, my duration here, etc…I told her I definitely wanted it – and paid her for the first month today to ensure it’s mine….So it seems that the Universe did will for Shirley’s flat to be mine – I’ll be moving in as early as the 15th but most likely the 17th or 18th.

Timing couldn’t have been any better…When I left Geetha’s I had just enough time to walk to my first Kanadda lesson. I was to meet with Hema (think that is how you spell her name) – at the school right across the street from Sindhu’s apartment. When I arrived I was greeted by Ben, Hema’s gorgeous and amazingly friendly doggie. He was awesome!!!! He walked with me to the main door, he kept lifting his right hand for me to shake it, and he followed me everywhere – I’m in love! When I walked inside the school I couldn’t help but smile – it was lovely – serene, calm, inviting; the perfect place for me to come in the evenings several times per week to learn to speak conversational Kanadda (I did ask Hema on my way out if she would mind if I took some pictures of the school – and she smiled and said “sure!” – so I’ll post some up soon so you can see for yourself) We spent about an hour and twenty minutes together tonight – and I must say she was also a breath of fresh air (really interesting how much feminine energy I’ve been around today – and even more interesting was how pure and gentle and sincere each of these women appear.)

Tonight we started with some things I want to know how to say. Here’s a brief rundown…

Namaskar – Greeting (hello and goodbye)
Thank you – Dhyana Vada
Please – Dhyvithu
Give – codi
Have you had your lunch?
Informal way – Uta Ita?
With Respect – Uta Mardra?

To answer the question:
Yes – Nan Uta itu
No – illa, nan uta aggila

Have you finished your breakfast? - Tindi Ita?
Yes – Nan du tindi itu
No – Illa nan du tindi aggila

How old are you?
Nima vayasu yashatu?

How old are you?
Haga edira?

How much?
Bela yashatu?

Which place are you from?
Ne vuu yavurinda bandiddra

To answer:
I am from America – na nu America Inda

I miss you!
Nenu ilda bajaroo

I love you!
Nanu neenanu prethusthana

Would you like to come with me to drink coffee?
Nanjotha coffee kudiyaka barthia?

Please put on the meter! (When getting a rickshaw)
Meter haki
Or (with more respect)
Dhyvithu meter haki

Please turn up the music (need this one at Silver’s)
Music jouraga madi

Do you have change?
Chilrai edya
Yes, I do!
Houda edya

No, I don’t!
Illa

Will you take a walk with me?
Nanjotha nadakunda barthiya

I want to go to Bangalore!
Nanu Bangaluruee gee hogabaku

I am going to go to Bangalore to change my plane ticket!
Nanu Bangaluruee gee hogi nana plane ticketanu badalicekoo baku

I am enjoying learning the Odissi dance!
Nanu Odissi danceanu eshtapatu caliutadne

Kothi – monkey (you know how I love monkeys!)
Kothi chanagida – nice or pretty monkey

I also learned words for family members…

Mother – Amma
Father - Appa
Son/nephew - maga
Daughter/niece - maglu
Grandfather - thatha
Grandmother - Ajji
Older sister - Akka
Younger sister - thangi

Nanaga ebaru Akkendru eedharai – I have two older sisters!


Uncles and Aunts are a bit more intricate –

Mothers older brother - Doda sodhara mava (but you can simply say mama)
Mothers younger brother - Chika sodhara mava
Fathers younger brother – Chikappa
Fathers older brother - Dodappa.
Mothers older sister - Dodamma,
Mothers younger sister – Chikamma
Fathers older sister - Doda atha
Fathers younger sister - Chika atha.



Learned the names of many fruits and vegetables so I’ll be able to use this when I go to the market to tell vendors what I want and also ask how much it is ; - )

Beans – Hoora li kai

Tomatoes and carrots are the same as in English

Eggs of a chicken – choli motha

Mushrooms – hanabai

Okra – bendikaye

Banana – bala hannu

Watermelon – tarbuga or kalangrehannu

Fruit – hannu

Apple – sabu hannu

Grapes – ceebai hannu

Mango – maveena hannu

Orange – kee ta lai hannu

Pinnapple – ananusu hannu

Kiwi, strawberry, cherry are same as English

Dried coconut – tangin kayee

Tender coconut (i.e. the water from the coconuts I drink daily) - elneeru

I asked her how to ask for a sweet tender coconut: it will come in very handy!
“Dhyvithu sweet elneeru codi” - “Please give me a sweet tender coconut!”


As you can see it was a very informative session – and I look forward to many more ahead – I have plenty to work with now – must spend some time with it tomorrow as we are going to meet tomorrow evening as well – can’t wait!

Well, until next time – Namaskara!

Another one bites my bum….A mosquito that is ;) They were on my like ‘white on rice’ this morning. The more respectable mosquitoes hang out in the shala – they usually go for the arms, legs, and feet. But the mosquitoes out by the coconut stand simply have no shame!

Again it was a bit of a challenge to drag myself from bed this morning – I actually got full rested nights sleep – and I think I was still in the midst of REM sleep when my alarm went off. I grunted as I pressed snooze…Five minutes passed and the alarm sounded again. “Ok, ok!” I got up and began my daily cleansing rituals. I contemplated tapping my toes today, but haven’t needed to for about a week as my yoga toe has subsided…Big mistake man – the left big toe proved bothersome during asana. Thus, tomorrow the tapping of the big toes shall resume as part of my pre-practice ritual.

As always, I jammed my way to the shala with some tunes – and found an abundance of energy begin to generate in zee body. I couldn’t help but smile as I neared the shala – “really need to appreciate and enjoy this trip (for many reasons but mainly) b/c I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to walk into the shala and pick any spot my little heart desires.” Such a small group of yogi’s here now – really loving it! When I arrived there were a handful of others waiting for the gate to open. So I plopped down and enjoyed my music – realized I may look a bit ridiculous to some b/c I really get into the beat of songs – noticed that I tap my feet and move my head a bit ;) Oh well – I’ve always known I’m odd, now everyone else can too.

When the gate did open, it took me a minute to decide where I wanted to place myself today – sometimes such decisions are hard for me b/c I don’t do well with TOO many choices. After an indecisive moment, I finally laid my mat down in the third row, about five mats from the door – “superb choice,” I thought to myself – “I’ve never practiced in this spot before!” Was hoping Elise would arrive soon, as we’d decided yesterday to practice next to one another today. And yes, during my second sun A she arrived and planted herself to my right.

My body was quite tight today – so I opted for an even longer, slower practice than usual. Before I raised my arms for my first Sun Salutation, I took a few minutes to breathe, to silently chant the opening mantra, and to dedicate my practice. Another indecisive moment – feeling lots of love today so I opted to dedicate my practice to everyone I hold dear….My mom, dad, Kama, Kimberly, my nephews, Kwang, Ammy, Alisa, Connie, Guruji…That done I was ready to begin. Asana, breath, bandhas, drishti – all were spot on today – the only thing that kept distracting me was the darn left big toe – ouch…Kept thinking, “Now Krista, why in the world didn’t you tape your toes this morning? I told you it’d be a good idea!” Told the other voice in my head to hush up – there is always tomorrow.
Once I got to Tittibhasana, I was literally drenched with sweat – always love it when that happens ;) It is getting easier for me to complete all aspects of that asana sequence, but it still gets my heart pounding at lightening speed. Have to take a moment before attempting Pincha Mayurasana. Gave myself a little pep talk before forearm – as I was placing my ‘yogi toes’ towel on top of my mat - “Ok Krista, you can do this!” I concurred, and attempted…Failed…Rested in Balasana for a moment, “Com’on Krista, you aren’t gonna fall over onto the person in front of you – just get into the pose already!” Pep talk completed, I placed my forearms on the floor, and up I went into Pincha Mayurasana. …Five steady breaths, and without a thought, came down gracefully into Chaturanga. Interesting – the mind – for it seems I’ve traded one fear for another – didn’t use to fear getting into Pincha Mayurasana – feared coming out of it…Now I have gotten over my fear of descending from the asana but have a fear of getting into it….Go figure…

Body was happy to begin backbends…When I stood up Sharath was there waiting – took the chance to squeeze in two dropbacks on my own before he helped me. And when he did I seemed to get even deeper today than before – don’t feel like I’m grabbing higher per se – he has me grabbing at my knees, but when he let go of my body – I straightened and tightened my legs as much as humanly possible, straightened my arms, and just breathed. Then I lifted myself up to a standing position. As always, Sharath smiled and made a little laugh as he moved behind me, allowed me to slowly descend to the floor and fold forward. He grabbed my ‘yogi toes’ towel and draped it over my back – then laid on top of me to give me a divine stretch in forward fold.

When I made my way to the ladies locker room – my energy had diminished considerably. Worked my way through finishing sequence – and remember being in headstand – was at breath 38 when I felt a sting… “Damn mosquitoes!” I quickly came out of headstand to see if I could catch the little blood sucker. I shamefully admit that I totally failed to observe Ahimsa - I took the greatest delight in squashing the little bastard sucking the blood from my right arm. That done I went back into headstand and completed my practice. I think I may have fallen asleep during Shavasana…Maybe for five or ten minutes. When I opened my eyes it actually took me a moment to realize where I was – odd when that happens. And to my dismay, I had two fresh bites – another on my arm, and a big ole bite on my left baby toe ;(

I dressed, went into the shala, paid my respects to Saraswati and Sharath, and excitedly headed outside for my morning coconut fix. I was by the coconut stand for all of 8-10 minutes (chatting with Elise and some other yogis) – and I’ll be damned – not one but two bites on zee bum - Mosquitoes really don’t like me today…Settled, tomorrow I’ll be adding tapping of toes and spraying of body with insect repellent to my morning cleansing/pre-practice ritual.

Oh British Airways…they really do try my patience sometimes…I called again today to check on the status of my claim…After ten minutes of, “hold please Madame,” I nearly flipped my shit. Then I took a few deep breaths and continued to hold ; -/ When the gentleman on the other end finally had the time to speak with me – he asked for my claim number, baggage number, seemed he asked me for every possible number – expect for the numerological coordinates of the stars at the time of my birth… Now I’m not sure what it is they see on their monitor when they pull up various numbers associated with my airline ticket, lost luggage form, missing luggage form, and reimbursement claim form – but I really began to wonder today… The guy on the other end of the line asked me the most asinine questions – like when did I arrive in Bangalore? When did I finally receive my missing luggage with missing contents? Is that information not right in front of him? And if not then what the heck is? After all the energy I put forth to be polite, patient, understanding, to repeat myself over and over and over [“no sir it is 005623…no 005623, no 0…0…5…6…2…3, yes that is correct”], to hold the line, to hold my tongue…after all that – he simply said, “Madame, your claim is still being processed. It will take another two to four weeks to process your claim. We will contact you once it has been processed!” I couldn’t help but cough, bull shit, under my breath. His response was Morse code for, “You absolutely must keep calling us every single day til we finally get around to ‘processing your claim.” And what does that entail anyway? One must wonder. Although I accomplished nothing with British Airways, I had to pat myself on the back as I hung up the phone, “Good job Krista – you didn’t raise your voice once! Well aside from the part of the conversation where you had to repeat yourself a billion times.” As I see it, job well done ;)

That done I packed up my computer – and made my way to Odissi class. I had a lovely walk to Sindhu’s house this morning - the sun was out, the traffic chaotic, the air polluted; I even got to dodge traffic a few times. When I arrived Sindhu asked how my volunteering was going at the school. I briefly ranted about the difficulty of teaching conversational English to a bunch of hormonal teenage boys! She laughed with me and said that children today are much more difficult than her generation – I said it seems to be a world wide trend…

Dance was difficult today ;( The first 45 minutes were rockin, but we took a five minute break, and when we resumed – I was outta gas. Mustered the energy to make it through, and was glad I did. But even happier to change my clothes, put on my ipod, and head back to Tina’s.

Krista is a much happier human when the weather is nice ;) I didn’t care that my body was tired; I was having too much fun walking with the sunshine! Elise had texted me to drop by for lunch if I was interested – for sure! I ran home and took a shower, then put on my crocs and headed to her place. When I got there I was delightfully surprised to see Elise, John and Petra (Elise’s roomie) hanging out. We sat and chatted for a bit before Elise scurried off to grab some veggies and other yummy, soon to be in zee belly, foodstuffs. While we waited for lunch – Petra, John and I watched ‘Guru.’ I’d actually not seen the documentary and really enjoyed watching it. All about practice with Guruji at the new shala here in Gokulam – celebration of Guruji’s 90th b-day. I was surprised that I knew quite a few people in the video – and even more surprised at how young everyone looked – even Guruji, Saraswati and Sharath looked soooooooooooo young to me.

After a lovely lunch John and I made way to his flat – wanted to see where he lived and visit for a bit. I was shocked to see he had such an AMAZING view of the city to stare at day in and day out. He even had a hammock hanging on his porch – totally jumped into it and made myself at home ;) A bit of a visit turned into a bit more of a visit – we spent a lot of time chatting – he let me check my email from his computer while he whipped up some vegan chocolate chip cookies (another shocker for me – to find out he has the ability to BAKE! Simply no words to describe the delight of that fact! All I wanted to do last year in Mysore was make some of Krista’s world renowned banana bread – ok I exaggerate but it’s the bomb!) So it was decided, I’d be making some banana bread in the near future. I also managed to steal some of his music collection (well sort of – made a play list of songs I wanted to gank, but they didn’t upload properly to my ipod – another day for sure.) The other major delight of my day was seeing the flat below him will be available mid September….On the way out we stopped by and Shirley was nice enough to let me take a peek – OMG – so want her flat! First off, there is an actual living room area with a place to sit, shelves, a table…A proper bedroom with a really big mattress, nice size closets…I very big kitchen (relative to home of course) with all the goodies…and the bathroom – let me just tell you how happy it made me to see that the toilet is separate from the shower area – like my dream come true! To top it off, it’s a very safe place (the family lives on the first floor – am told they are really nice but not nosey), the maid comes every other day, and there is internet! So, if the universe wills it to be – Shirley’s flat shall soon be mine…

Before John drove me to Tina’s we stopped for a coconut (one for John but two for me ; - ) Some people can’t just have one chip, one piece of chocolate, one bon bon; I can’t just have one coconut…

I was supposed to meet with Girish and Barti today – but there were several factors that made it impossible…Girish’s rickshaw is being fixed, and its Barti’s birthday…I totally forgot today was the 4th! Told him we would meet tomorrow…So I grabbed some clothes and headed to Silvers – wanted to do a bit of good ole cardio to wear myself out – in the hopes of helping me get a good nights sleep (been a few days since I enjoyed that.) I must say that did the trick…On my way home I stopped into the market and had a grand ole time picking out some food stuffs – and some T.P. too…Stopped by Anu’s to grab zee computer – and chatted with Ganesh for a hot second. He called Tracy for me (woman in charge of operation Shanti – nonprofit here in Mysore) – spoke to Tracy briefly but she explained they don’t need anymore volunteers right now – bummer ;( Ganesh then tried calling someone else who does volunteer work and would most likely be able to utilize me. No answer – hoping to touch base tomorrow.

As I sit on my bed about to turn off this contraption in front of me – I can’t help but give thanks for the weather! My spirits have been different ALL DAY long – thank you sun gods. I really pray the weather will be nice for at least a few more days – life is just sweeter when it is – and so am I.

Hard to get out of bed today – the gloomy weather is really bringing my spirits down ;( Hoping the sun will come out today.

I slowly got up from bed, and began my daily cleansing pre-practice rituals. Always good to get me going. On my way to the shala I listened to my ipod (minus the left ear piece that disappeared yesterday.) I arrived about ten til 5am and took a spot at the front of the shala close to the men’s locker room. Wouldn’t normally take that spot – and don’t think I will again (now that I have free range of whole room I’m checking out all potential practice spots.) But I choose this spot b/c Elise suggested I try it – I was explaining my fear of falling onto someone doing forearm balance, and she said that would be a good spot b/c there is no one in front of you there – just a wall. She was totally right – and forearm was easier – but the distraction of men walking in and out of the locker room was totally killing my mojo today – not to mention the mosquitoes seem to fancy that spot too! Minus those distractions, practice was good – feeling a little heavy (partially b/c of last nights dinner, and partially b/c of the weather) – but I am getting stronger so it helped counter balance the extra heavy feeling. Since there are very few people here Sharath has time to come help people with things he normally wouldn’t have time to – quite nice. He spent a lot of time helping a girl next to me in the Marchi’s – helped me with Supta Vajrasana as always, but then came back to help me with Yogi Nidrasana – hasn’t touched me in it since he gave me the posture a few weeks back – and boy can he get you deep into it – simply felt wonderful! He also gave me more pointers in Tittibhasana. When it came time to do Pincha Mayurasana, Saraswati came to help me out. I was doing better today – but she came over and grabbed my legs – held them – let them go…After a few more breaths balancing on my own I easily came down into Chaturanga (today I realized I am definitely over my fear ;) When I came into updog she said Karandavasana! I looked at her funny b/c Sharath hasn’t given me that pose. She smiled and said, “you not there yet?” I smiled back and said, “No not there yet!” She walked away and I spent a few more minutes working on forearm – want to work on jumping down into Chaturanga as much as possible – and sure enough – three times in a row I just jumped right down – hands flat, body aligned, smiling Krista. Did my backbends and Saraswati dropped me back – nice when she does. Did my finishing, had my coconuts (three to be exact), and started walking home. Talked to Kwang – it’s evening for him – he was hanging out with some friends – today (Monday) was holiday for him so he’s been relaxing the last few days – glad to hear that b/c he’s been working really hard recently.

When I came home to Tina's it was soooooooooooooooooo cold...Again its all due to the weather - but man...I didn't bring warm things with me to India - what's a girl to do...Well today she opted to hop back under the covers to shelter herself from the cold (didn't actually help all that much - but a nice hour long nap did ;) I laid down at 7:30am waiting for 8am to arrive - and ended up sleeping til 8:30am. Woke up in the midst of a very strange dream though - ugh.....

Quote my mama sent me today! Sure is amazing to me - mama's I mean ;) Without quite knowing it, they seem to KNOW what to do to make their child feel better. Thanks mama, your quote brightened my dreary day - don't even need the sun anymore ;)
"Dreams come true; without that possibility, nature would not incite us to have them." -- John Updike

Ate too much for dinner ;( Oh feel full…

I start Kanadda lessons this week – will meet with a tutor Monday and Wednesday evenings at 6:45pm for about an hour. Really looking forward to it…

My body is starting to get more used to Odissi dancing

September is here – and so are the rains…

Shala has really emptied out…Quiet around.

Looking forward to the weather when I get home – will be cold by then…Don’t care for the cold, but do love winter time…

Miss my friends back home – love you guys…

Finished my book, ‘Damage Control’ – wasn’t nearly as good as the last few books I’ve read…But looking forward to diving into ‘This Day in the Life.’

Want the sun to come out…Been a gloomy couple of days – feel out of whack when I can’t walk everywhere I want to go, can’t take pictures, can’t take a day trip or long meditative walks, stuck inside, no fresh air, no sunshine – “the sun will come out tomorrow – betcha bottom dollar….” Hope so!

Good night all…

Today I feel old…It rained all day yesterday, despite my continuous attempts to call upon the sun gods to come out and shine. I even went to the pool for a few hours – even laid out in the rain for a bit – determined the sun would show its face so I could pay my respects…No chance – it rained, and stopped, and rained, and stopped – all day long. It even rained through the night. A sleepless night – tossed and turned, woke up cold, woke up to the storm, woke up hungry….At 3:30am my alarm went off – I’d been lying in bed awake for some time when I heard the noise – it startled me. As I pulled myself from my bed to make way for my bucket bath, I realized my body was very sore. I was a bit shocked – for my back hasn’t been sore in ages! Feel old as I make way to the bathroom, feel old as I wash my body, and feel old as I slowly walk towards the shala.

I got to the shala at 4:45am shala time, put my mat down, and put away my things. I came back to my mat – took a moment to dedicate my practice to my daddy, Guruji, and the rest of my family – felt a bit sentimental this morning. I silently chanted the opening mantra – and then it seemed as though my physical soreness disappeared. I started my practice and found a delightful moving meditation. How sweet…I went very slowly through practice today – just the way I like it. It wasn’t until I arrived at Tittibhasana that I even ‘returned to the world around me.’ I am still in the phase of total awareness in the posture – where I have to consciously focus on my breath, bandhas and drishti as I work though the poses. Sharath looked at me and encouraged me to lift my head higher – and I did. Then it came time for Pincha Mayurasana. I struggled today – think I will for a few days til I get comfortable in the posture again, til I feel comfortable doing the posture in the shala, and most importantly – til I get comfortable doing the posture with people all around (have a bit of a fear of falling over onto someone in front of me or beside me – always practice alone at home – or with one or two other yogi’s sometimes – but never have to worry about falling on someone – at home, If I were to fall, I’d simply fall onto the floor in front of me.) Sharath saw me struggle – he came over to me – looked down at me with a grin on his face – he told me to bring my weight forward more. Something I know to do – but can’t seem to grasp today. Yet, when he said it, it made sense – almost like he read my mind and without saying it, said “Krista don’t worry, you won’t fall over and hit the lady in front of you – just get up like you know you can and take five breaths in forearm balance – go ahead now – you can do it!” So I did! Just like that – he told me to move my weight forward, I did, and I was up and balanced – took my five breaths – and floated down into Chaturanga ;) Did it again today with no problem – now I’m not saying that it is the most graceful drop from forearm to Chaturanga – by any means – but I am saying that I did it. As with every other asana in the practice, the grace of movement from postures will only come with more practice. And that is why I love this practice so much – you only progress when you practice consistently, for a long time, and with sincerity – whenever I want a pose I don’t get it – it’s only when I let go and do the practice for the sake of doing the practice – for the sake of growing in the practice – growing in my life – do I actually progress – and to me that is so sweet!

Well I just finished a lovely breakfast with Elise (enjoy your nap my friend ;) – now its about time to walk to Sindhu’s for my dance lesson – interested to see how it will feel today – since returning from practice my body has returned to feeling old. Soreness in the back – so odd to me…But a good odd. It’s quite comical actually as I have to get up slowly – even caught myself holding my back earlier – as if that will somehow take away the soreness that will likely predominate my day. But, it is still rainy outside – perhaps that has something to do with it. I digress…Looking forward to dance – sure I’ll learn more today. Also looking forward to volunteering with the kids this afternoon – busy day for me here in Mysore ;) I should be done with all obligations around 4pm…But I do need to take my new found materials to Barti and see when she can have a sample bag ready – hoping to fit that in today – but if not there is always tomorrow.

It was quite a treat to wake up at 4:45am for 6:15am led second series…Although; I found out all too quickly that class wasn’t such a treat. It was a great class; don’t get me wrong – just hard as hell! When I arrived and only found two other yogis’s waiting for the led primary to end, I realized this class may be very small…And indeed, it was – I’d say there were maybe 11 of us total. It was a bit intimidating…

I peered into the shala as the first group was wrapping up – and to my utter surprise - my first teacher ever, Reinaldo, was standing in the room rolling up his mat! I knew Reinaldo was coming for a brief stint in September, but I seemed to remember he’d be arriving late in the month. It was really wonderful to see him – it’s been about four years. He introduced me to the traditional Ashtanga practice – had the pleasure of learning the primary series from him before he up and moved to Miami and then L.A. Been without a teacher since he left – but he gave me all the proper tools I needed to carry on alone. I am forever indebted to his teachings. When he walked out into the hall we spoke briefly – I gave him a big hug. Said we’d talk later.

Once the first group cleared out I walked into the shala and straightaway went to the front row – as I knew Sharath would move me there anyway – so I saved us both the trouble. As I stood on my mat waiting for class to begin, I looked over to Guruji, who was standing in the center of the room with an expressionless demeanor – I smiled real big at him (couldn’t help but), and he gave me a warm smile back – oh that is the kind of thing that makes a girls day ;)

I was a bit surprised to find that Sharath was going to lead the class today – Guruji usually does. And I would have been utterly stupid to assume that class would be easier with Sharath leading it – it turned out to be the hardest led second I’ve had….Luckily I found out later I wasn’t alone. Not sure I totally grasp the situation, as Guruji always teaches a faster paced class than Sharath – but today it seemed as though we were literally FLYING through the practice – my heart was beating sooo fast my body couldn’t keep up. About thirty minutes into practice I had to muster every ounce of energy to keep my breath even. Nonetheless, I did feel strong and grounded throughout practice – but quickly losing my momentum. When we got to Tittibhasana, it was all I could do to make it through the sequence of asanas. And once we jumped back into Chaturanga, I quickly grabbed the top of my mat to move myself to the back of the room to begin finishing sequence.

“Damn,” I thought to myself as I looked up and Sharath was standing right in front of me and told me to do Pincha Mayurasana. Now, the irony of it all is that I did want to begin working on the asana at the shala with Sharath’s guidance – but just not today ;( I was sooo pooped; I just wanted to be done. Not so lucky. I laid my mat back down and pathetically tried to lift up into forearm balance (something I’ve been able to do for a while) – Sharath stayed there the whole time and on my second attempt he grabbed my legs and helped me get my balance. Then he left go – I took a few more breaths – and voila, jumped into Chaturanga. Linda, Sasha, and everyone else back home will appreciate the fact that I did this without hesitation! I’ve been terrified of jumping into Chaturanga from forearm balance ever since I broke my foot in May. I’ve babied my right foot so much in that pose – this mental fear in my head that I might hurt my poor lil foot jumping down. The funniest thing – our fears – our thoughts – since Sharath was standing right there I just KNEW that I had to jump into Chaturanga – so it seems that my mind didn’t have time to be scared and chicken out of jumping down – I just did it without thought. I was so shocked when I did….From up dog to down dog – then I happily looked up at Sharath as I grabbed my mat and made my way to the back of the room (could he have any idea what a breakthrough that was for me?)

Slightly elated, out of breath, drenched with sweat – I lay down on my back and took a moment before I started my backbends. “Wow, I just did it – will I be able to do it from here on out – is the fear gone?” That was a total ‘ah ha’ moment for me – I grasped a brand new aspect of this practice…Not physically by any means, the mental side of it all. Now I’ve known since I began Ashtanga that it is here to help us in many ways – one being deal with fears (at first some of those fears may be physical – but by overcoming certain physical fears we are able to tap into the emotional and/or mental ones behind that little physical aspect) – its happened to me a thousand times (the most vivid and difficult until now was Headstand and then Bakasana) – but this seems even more – even more profound. I’m rambling, but I can simply say “WOW!”

Once I finished my practice I headed to the hall – turned and gave my respects to Sharath and Saraswati. To my surprise Reinaldo was sitting outside – he had stayed to watch led second, and he was waiting to pay for his month at the shala. I sat in silence with him for a few minutes. Then Sharath came out into the hall and told Reinaldo to go inside – I went outside dehydrated and ‘desperately seeking coconuts.’ I sucked down three of them and waited for Reinaldo to come out. When he did we discussed having breakfast and catching up on the last four years. Asked him if he knew where Shakti house was – he didn’t – so I told him to meet me at the coconut stand in an hour. I ran home and took a shower, then made way to meet my old teacher. We had a lovely breakfast and catch up – he’s living in California now and working as an engineer – teaching a little yoga. Since he left Orlando in 2003 he hasn’t taught full time. And this is his first trip back to India since 2002…I’m so happy he’s come back – he is a natural teacher – has a special gift that many don’t possess – I’m very happy for him – to make the sacrifice to come to India again and re-ignite that passion for the practice.

The last few days have been filled with good memories…Had a great led primary practice Friday morning, went to the bank with Sharath and finally opened a bank account here in India, had a rockin dance lesson Friday afternoon, had a lovely dinner with friends, did some dancing at High Octane, and got way too much sleep…Woke up Saturday feeling a bit hazy – that’s what happens when I get more than six hours of sleep. Once I finally got myself out of bed, I enjoyed a tasty breakfast right outside my bedroom door at Tina’s. Then I enjoyed a lovely day running errands with Pete. We grabbed some much needed coffee at coffee day, had lunch at a new jewel of a restaurant in town – Shanghi Chinese (yummy!) Then we made our way in town so I could find a silver chain for my two silver Om pendants I found at a shop near Chamundi hill a few weeks ago. We managed to find the street in the city lined with jewelry shops, but it took a little time finding the right chains. One of my pendants is really dainty (my favorite of the two), the other is much larger. After going into about three or four shops I found two chains that suited nicely. And inexpensive too ;) After chain shopping we ran to Rashinkars so I could check on my bags and skirts, and so Pete could purchase some books. Ended the day with a walk around the lake and a couple refreshing coconuts. I made my way back to Tina’s for a bit – then fulfilled my desire to walk around Gokulam after sunset, alone, with my ipod. Was the highlight of my day – I value my time alone dearly – and a thirty minute walk did the trick. As I headed back in the direction of Tina’s, I stopped by Anu’s to check my email – just made my way home.

I am really looking forward to my practice tomorrow – may be the last led second while I’m here. Sharath will be teaching all this week – but then it’s just Saraswati and Guruji. I am under the assumption that there will not be enough yogis’s left in Mysore next Sunday to warrant two led classes – which means they will cut the second series led from the schedule. As much as I don’t LOVE led second practice, I’ll miss not doing it on Sundays. Non-attachment. Just means I must be totally present during tomorrow’s practice – but I didn’t anticipate anything else – been looking forward to tomorrow’s practice all day today – although I know a day of rest is necessary – always feel not quite myself the days I don’t practice.

Tomorrow looks to be a nice and easy Sunday. I will enjoy a nice practice, have a bit of breakfast (perhaps Shakti House as Tina’s is closed tomorrow and I have ventured to Shakti in a while – or maybe Southern Star – that’s a place I’ve not yet visited this trip to Mysore). Either way, I do hope to make it to the pool for a few hours tomorrow – if the weather permits. I had hoped to today but the sun wasn’t in the mood to shine – weather was a bit dreary mood all day – didn’t rain but seemed to contemplate the idea most of the day. If it does rain I’ll likely spend the day reading and writing – always a good way to spend the day. Looking forward to this coming week – promises to be full.