3/22/2016
Today’s the day. I’m nervous. What if I don’t find the
colorful streets I’m looking for? What if the stories and pictures are cropped
to force the perspective? I hope I feel better after this glass of wine. – 5:00a
The Germans got rowdy around 5:30a so I managed an early
exit. The way they were packed I’d say base camp. Do they really have the
porters carry that much? Jesus Christ.
Did a few loops from Thamel to Basantapur. Was heartened to
see a few dye bags for sale. Bought six lal mohan (fried dough balls) for 10
NSR from a lady cooking outside on of the temples while her son making the
ringed sel rotis. Such practiced maneuvers. Probably the most delicious
breakfast I’ve had so far. Still snagged some quiche and was back in my room
eating it and filtering water by 7:30a. Out again by 8:00a.
Headed to Basantapur Durbar Sq, back alleys and begin to see
long streaks of color on the faces of northbound pedestrians.
Arrival at the square, paid my entrance, and was greeted
with yellow and purple smudges. Proceeded to the Shiva-Pravati temple where a
crowd was forming. The old gathering had been Maju Deval on the square in
previous years before the quake. So this is the eccentric, jovial Nepali
spirit.
Staggered my way back, kids caking on more and more pigemtns to my face along the way. Evidently the tall, white, bald, bearded dudes make a good canvas. Hotel receptionist looked up from her phone as I walked in. “Oh my God” she said. So it’s true what’s been said, foreigners are good targets. Took a 30 minute breather. Headed back out. Wandering groups seems to be the trend. Notice a bit more of the gender roles as they play out through the opposing crowds. They get a bit more aggressive with their painting.
Snag two beers. Down one, try to take a cold shower and wash
off my adornments. May schedule an appointment for a rash, just to fuck with
the medical staff. Opened second beer. Make a smoke run. Nap.
This was exactly what I hoped it would be. – 3:20p
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