Christmas Day

This was my most unusual Christmas yet. After the morning yoga session, 3 of us took a taxi to Coonoor to have a look around. Luckily one of the guests here, Grace, (an experienced India traveler) took us under her wing to lead us through town. We encountered  2 boys riding on a tricked out bike who wanted my camera. We offered to trade the camera for the bike...they both said no! Tuktuks, cabs, and vehicles were honking away, the streets filled with people, many who were shopping in the local market which sold hardware, clothes, food, jewelry, and other assorted items. We spent about an hour or so there and came back to the retreat to get ready for the Christmas party. We were surprised by a band, bonfire, fireworks and a special meal with a CAKE! Very exciting for all after eating no sugar for some time. Everyone danced around the bonfire before our dinner, very festive. After dinner 2 guests from Finland came into the dining room wearing traditional wreaths and singing Finnish songs...they encouraged all to sing along to Silent Night in their native language. Beautiful and strange...