Hi Everyone --

It's been another fast week here in India. I still don't know how the weeks can fly by since we don't do very much.

Hannah spent some of the week studying for her ACT test, which was Saturday. I asked our driver to go out there one day so he would know exactly where it was, but he was sure he knew how to get there. I had him speak to the person at the college where we were going, and he still assured me he knew where it was. Well, Saturday came and we left the house at 6 a.m. (which our driver wasn't very happy about) and began our trip. The amazing thing about Pune at 6 a.m. is that it's totally deserted! There wasn't a person, a car, or a cow to be found anywhere! Feroz was making amazing time flying through the city. Then we started into the countryside. He was flying along at 80 kpm on one lane roads, being sure to slow way down for pot holes. He missed the turn at the village and had to start asking questions. Did I mention that it's still dark? Even if there were a sign, we would have missed it since we were going so fast. We turned around and went back to the village. Well, at 7 a.m. in a village, most of the men are out and about, mostly brushing their teeth by the side of the road. I think Feroz asked 4-5 for directions. Thankfully, most spit before they answered and gave new directions. We took the next left, down a very narrow lane (which I'm sure the village women were wondering why this big red car was going down their lane so early in the morning), and we were dodging chickens and men brushing their teeth. Another couple wrong turns, and more directions, we finally made it onto a paved road that led us to the college. We went into the gate, where I had to sign in and they signaled us up the hill. This college is on top of a hill and it's all fenced in and they call it a wildlife preserve. The first sign told us to watch for students along with pictures of a peacock and an Indian deer. I wasn't sure what their students were going to look like. We made it to the top of the hill and there was the college. It was nicely done, fresh air, and clean. We were there 45 minutes early. That was a good thing because both Hannah and I were extremely car sick and needed a chance to settle down.

Lo and behold, another student showed up -- a 16 year old American boy taking the ACT test too. There were 3 signed up and 2 showed up. The guidance counselor proctored the test and she was very nice. I met the principal and he as nice too.

The test went fine and Hannah was glad it was over. It was a long day!

We had 7 at church today. That is our maximum number (I think). It's nice when everyone shows up. Our lesson was on charity and it went well.

Hannah has been busy painting her room too. She went last Saturday with Doug and picked out a nice turquoise color. She took "before" and "after" photos to share with you. All the house help was surprised that she could and would do such a thing. I'm glad she had something fun to do.

Doug leaves tonight for Lonavala -- a hill station between here and Mumbai. He has some training the next 3 days. Hannah and I will just muddle along and eat leftovers.

Have a good week!
Love, Lucinda