Taken a break from the blog for a week or so. Came back from Goa and had food poisoning again followed by hives so have been laid a little low. Nothing much happened, just everyday life which is the same no matter where in the World you happen to be. The weather has been dreadful too, heavy (very) day after day so not good to be out as you get soaked in seconds. I'm not worried about the water falling out of the sky it is more the water on the ground that you have to be careful of!
Bank holiday weekend was a typical 'British' affair with heavy rain all weekend and Monday and a Bond film. Conversely, the UK had a mini heat wave and friends reported trips to the beach and minimal traffic problems!!
This morning on the way to work I saw a broken down truck displaying a red triangle on the road behind! A minibus driver was so surprised that when he took avoiding action to stop running it over the knocked a motorcyclist of his bike - phew normallity restored!
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
Wednesday, 25 August 2010
26th August 2010 - Hives
The Thompy medical woes continues - having got over food poisoning from eating a dodgy prawn, yesterday I broke out in Hives all over my arms, legs, stomach and bottom! Incredibly uncomfortable. A trip to the Doc didn't really reveal much other than Hives, which I'd figured out with the help of Teri and a quick squiz at Wikipedia. Still real Doc prescribed 3 different types of tablet which has already made a good start at clearing up the rash. Side effects are that I'm feeling sick which might related I guess.
Got a new driver to replace Vikas, this one at least has some paperwork to ID who he is! Vikas has been round to the flat already asking if we have a job for him, difficult to deal with as he was really good and is a young father with no other means of support. We'll see how this one plays out but can't get too involved as it is not our fight.
Keep seeing cars with signs in the back window which says 'if this vehicle is not being driven within the driving norms then please call XYZ helpline'. Are they having a laugh? In a Country where you can buy your driving licence, people regularly drive the wrong way up streets and generally ignore traffic signs, signals and officials maybe it is the person who indicates, is considerate of other road users and acknowledges road signs that gets reported?!
Got a new driver to replace Vikas, this one at least has some paperwork to ID who he is! Vikas has been round to the flat already asking if we have a job for him, difficult to deal with as he was really good and is a young father with no other means of support. We'll see how this one plays out but can't get too involved as it is not our fight.
Keep seeing cars with signs in the back window which says 'if this vehicle is not being driven within the driving norms then please call XYZ helpline'. Are they having a laugh? In a Country where you can buy your driving licence, people regularly drive the wrong way up streets and generally ignore traffic signs, signals and officials maybe it is the person who indicates, is considerate of other road users and acknowledges road signs that gets reported?!
25th August 2010 - Back to the madness
Funny how normal it feels to be back in Mumbai, familiar and dare I say it but it feels a bit like home now!
Most of the ODC management team are sick at present, including me as I have developed an all over rash which is probably some allergic reaction to something but getting it checked out all the same.
I'd forgotten to mention Max's school report which I picked up last week. It truely was a massive achievement to have adapted and come out with such a good assessment, Susie and I are really proud of him.
Most of the ODC management team are sick at present, including me as I have developed an all over rash which is probably some allergic reaction to something but getting it checked out all the same.
I'd forgotten to mention Max's school report which I picked up last week. It truely was a massive achievement to have adapted and come out with such a good assessment, Susie and I are really proud of him.
Tuesday, 24 August 2010
24th August 2010 - Goan restbite
Just on our way back from Goa, has a 4 day break in a great little cottage just off Candolim Beach. It is about as far away from the heat, dirt, noise and smell of Mumbai as you can imagine!
To be able to step out of the front door and all you can hear as you walk through the gardens is the roar of the wave breaking on the beach. Batteries were being nicely recharged until I picked up food poisoning from some dodgy prawns and spent all last night doubled up in pain. I've never wished so much that I could be sick to relive the pain but alas the offending prawns had made their way too far. Not a great end to a fab few days. We visited a spice plantation, rode on an elephant called Babu, eaten wonderful seafood, walked along empty Goan beaches in the sunshine and swum in a lovely outdoor pool. We will definately be back!
Has been raining hard here in Goa since very early morning which makes the outside toilets interesting. Max, Darcy and I had a shower in the rain this morning which was good fun.
Happy memories to take back to Mumbai and keep us going when Mumbai life gets you down!
To be able to step out of the front door and all you can hear as you walk through the gardens is the roar of the wave breaking on the beach. Batteries were being nicely recharged until I picked up food poisoning from some dodgy prawns and spent all last night doubled up in pain. I've never wished so much that I could be sick to relive the pain but alas the offending prawns had made their way too far. Not a great end to a fab few days. We visited a spice plantation, rode on an elephant called Babu, eaten wonderful seafood, walked along empty Goan beaches in the sunshine and swum in a lovely outdoor pool. We will definately be back!
Has been raining hard here in Goa since very early morning which makes the outside toilets interesting. Max, Darcy and I had a shower in the rain this morning which was good fun.
Happy memories to take back to Mumbai and keep us going when Mumbai life gets you down!
Friday, 20 August 2010
21st August 2010 - Goa here we come!
If we discount our trip to Lonavala Hill Station (the memory of which will never be erased eh Teri!) then our trip to Goa is our first trip out of Mumbai for nearly 3 months. Boy are we ready to get away, even though it is Monsoon, wet and beautiful wins everytime!
So 4 days in Goa, staying off Candolim Beach, the cottage we are renting has its own garden which leads onto the beach, getting very excited. The weather here has been very wet for the past few days so hopefully it has done its worst and we get a small spell of settled weather.
Just passed the rubbish truck with the men at the back emptying the wheelie bins by hand (
No gloves!) They were removing the plastic bottles and throwing them into the road - for a Country that recycles so much it amazes me that they aren't better prepared to recycle. I think there maybe a reason. If the rubbish was sorted and collected by type the rubbish pickers would have a job and a way to make money. This is not me being condesending but I have a feeling it is reality.
Headlines yesterday said that the India Government have stepped in to run the CWG - not sure if this was planned part of the project or a last ditch attempt to save the Games. I have never seen so much bad press for a single event, cor
uption, poor workmanship, delays and general confusion reign - poor India!
So 4 days in Goa, staying off Candolim Beach, the cottage we are renting has its own garden which leads onto the beach, getting very excited. The weather here has been very wet for the past few days so hopefully it has done its worst and we get a small spell of settled weather.
Just passed the rubbish truck with the men at the back emptying the wheelie bins by hand (
No gloves!) They were removing the plastic bottles and throwing them into the road - for a Country that recycles so much it amazes me that they aren't better prepared to recycle. I think there maybe a reason. If the rubbish was sorted and collected by type the rubbish pickers would have a job and a way to make money. This is not me being condesending but I have a feeling it is reality.
Headlines yesterday said that the India Government have stepped in to run the CWG - not sure if this was planned part of the project or a last ditch attempt to save the Games. I have never seen so much bad press for a single event, cor
uption, poor workmanship, delays and general confusion reign - poor India!
Thursday, 19 August 2010
20th August 2010 - Missing history
Second day off and getting ready for our trip to Goa, can't wait! Currently sitting in Thomas Cooke trying to sort travel insurance with a premium of Rs 640 or about £9. So far they taken copies of our passports, Residency certificates and so far 1 hour of the persons time plus all written up in a book with the blue duplicate paper....how on earth does anyone make any money on this deal?!
Went into a larhe book shop earlier to get a map of Mumbai and also a book on the history of India - surprisingly they didn't stock either!
Went into a larhe book shop earlier to get a map of Mumbai and also a book on the history of India - surprisingly they didn't stock either!
Tuesday, 17 August 2010
18th Aiugust 2010 - School report
Whilst Susie battled to get Darcy into her school uniform, I went to Max's school to see his teacher for the term school report. He has done brilliantly well and the school report was a joy to read. Just the usual suspect areas of spelling and writing, although he is trying hard in these areas too.
On my convoluted drive from the school to work we got stuck in traffic going past some road works. Massive number of labourer's shacks, no labourers save for two men with whistles trying to sort out the huge tailbacks and noone taking any notice! Even
the earth mover had plants growing up by its blade just to emphasise how little work has progressed since we came here 10 weeks ago! Sixty three years of progress since the tyranical British were kicked out (poster at Max's school proclaimed) and this is what they are left with! Surprised at the warm welcome we get considering lessons being taught like this!
On my convoluted drive from the school to work we got stuck in traffic going past some road works. Massive number of labourer's shacks, no labourers save for two men with whistles trying to sort out the huge tailbacks and noone taking any notice! Even
the earth mover had plants growing up by its blade just to emphasise how little work has progressed since we came here 10 weeks ago! Sixty three years of progress since the tyranical British were kicked out (poster at Max's school proclaimed) and this is what they are left with! Surprised at the warm welcome we get considering lessons being taught like this!
18th Aiugust 2010 - School report
Whilst Susie battled to get Darcy into her school uniform, I went to Max's school to see his teacher for the term school report. He has done brilliantly well and the school report was a joy to read. Just the usual suspect areas of spelling and writing, although he is trying hard in these areas too.
On my convoluted drive from the school to work we got stuck in traffic going past some road works. Massive number of labourer's shacks, no labourers save for two men with whistles trying to sort out the huge tailbacks and noone taking any notice! Even
the earth mover had plants growing up by its blade just to emphasise how little work has progressed since we came here 10 weeks ago! Sixty three years of progress since the tyranical British were kicked out (poster at Max's school proclaimed) and this is what they are left with! Surprised at the warm welcome we get considering lessons being taught like this!
On my convoluted drive from the school to work we got stuck in traffic going past some road works. Massive number of labourer's shacks, no labourers save for two men with whistles trying to sort out the huge tailbacks and noone taking any notice! Even
the earth mover had plants growing up by its blade just to emphasise how little work has progressed since we came here 10 weeks ago! Sixty three years of progress since the tyranical British were kicked out (poster at Max's school proclaimed) and this is what they are left with! Surprised at the warm welcome we get considering lessons being taught like this!
Monday, 16 August 2010
17th August 2010 - Big girl school effect
Think this could be just what Darcy needed, big girl school has already worked wonders although I hope I don't speak too soon!
Darcy is eating well, slept well and has got up this morning ready for the next installment!
The sun is out this morning, the sky is blue in places and it feels uplifting- feels like another turning point.
17th August - leave home at 7.50am drop Max at school 8.10am apartment 8
.40am, Darcy school 8.50am, Work by 9.15am Total journey time 1h 25m, total distance 26 Km!
Mum and Dad arrive in approx 9 weeks which is great and none of us can wait!
Darcy is eating well, slept well and has got up this morning ready for the next installment!
The sun is out this morning, the sky is blue in places and it feels uplifting- feels like another turning point.
17th August - leave home at 7.50am drop Max at school 8.10am apartment 8
.40am, Darcy school 8.50am, Work by 9.15am Total journey time 1h 25m, total distance 26 Km!
Mum and Dad arrive in approx 9 weeks which is great and none of us can wait!
Sunday, 15 August 2010
16th August 2010 - Sleepless in Mumbai
Had a dreadful night, couldn't get to sleep and when I eventually did kept waking up cause of the dogs fighting and my mind racing. For the past 2 months I have put my families lives in the hand of a Company supplied driver. It turns out that this driver has not been checked out at all, nonoe is even sure of his address and he has no paperwork, hence why when we get stopped by the police he always gets fined. Max would travel alone with him and try as I might although nothing ever happened my mind kept me awake with horrible thoughts of what could have happened. We have a new driver now, he can't speak English and I have no idea what his background is. Today is the day to get to the bottom of this I am not prepared to risk any of my family for anyone.
Darcy's first day at big girl school. Susie and I took her in and then I left for work which made the situation worse as she screamed and cried when I left. She'll get over it pretty soon as the class looks nice and there were plenty of fun looking things to do.
Darcy's first day at big girl school. Susie and I took her in and then I left for work which made the situation worse as she screamed and cried when I left. She'll get over it pretty soon as the class looks nice and there were plenty of fun looking things to do.
15th August 2010 - Indian Independence Day
Feels a bit strange being in a Country celebrating its independence from British rule. I watched a program on the way India was carved up before the British left, rather hurriedly in the end. The chaos that led upto independence, the unrest, blood shed and pain suffered, reminds me of the efforts in Afganistan - not our country, not our battle and ultimately once you stop fighting a loosing battle the Country will quickly regain the level it is capable to run at. If that means war and bloodshed or peace and democracy them this is how it will be, what can actually be achieved?
Had lunch with friends at the JW Marriott on Juhu beach. Lovely food, just far too much choice prompting you to eat to much! Afterwards we went for a short walk on Juhu Beach, so lovely to be by the sea again. We soon got completely surrounded and very uncomfortable, people staring at us mutely and taking pictures - rather like being surrounded by a herd of cows (minus the picture taking!)
Had lunch with friends at the JW Marriott on Juhu beach. Lovely food, just far too much choice prompting you to eat to much! Afterwards we went for a short walk on Juhu Beach, so lovely to be by the sea again. We soon got completely surrounded and very uncomfortable, people staring at us mutely and taking pictures - rather like being surrounded by a herd of cows (minus the picture taking!)
Saturday, 14 August 2010
14th August 2010 - Monsoon clothing
Dropped Max of at school for his field trip to a local science museum. Slightly reluctant to go but in the end went without fuss - good lad. On the way back from dropping him off I managed to find a little local bike shop as Susie and I had decided to get Max a bike.
On the way back to Powai it started rain very hard indeed, just right for my shopping trip. As usual Vikas did a great job of getting his car as close to the front door of the shop under the canopy. However this means driving onto the pavement, beeping at pedestrians - just right to help us white people blend in with locals! So anyway he pulls up under the canopy although I only realise to late that it is right on the edge and as I open the door all of the cascading rain water from the roof drenches me in seconds. Noone laughed at least not outwardly.
When I got back home I realised that I had forgotten some things. So off out again, this time with Darcy in tow. Might have mentioned that it can get a bit wet out here - never fear Darcy has the solution, go shopping in your swimming costume. If I thought we attracted attention normally walking about with Darcy in a stripy swimsuit carrying a little red and white brella, the locals went into overdrive. Took us 10 minutes to get back into HSBC from the car!
Picked Max up from school and his report on the trip was that it was 80% good! Round to the bike shop and he is the proud owner of a 'Hero' BMX. Cost a huge Rs3000 about £42 and included a bell, even though the bike already had one and Max didn't want a second bell and a bike lock. Max delighted, Vikas asked how much - on the basis that I had just spent the equivalent of half Vikas' monthly salary on a bike I was inclined to state a lower price.
Going to Teri's flat warning tonight with the others, Jason issued a challenge to find the most tacky gift - challenge accepted, we located a shop selling religious artifacts. I managed to get a gold plated plastic, plastic jewel encrusted, model of Ganisha mounted in a plastic container with a red umbrella ontop. It really was a beauty and came gift wrapped in bright pink paper for Rs300. Jason beat me though with a beautiful model Buda, sitting astride what looked a big frog who in turn was on a big pile of money. Teri hid her horror well and placed them on display, we will check to ensure they remain in pride of place!
On the way back to Powai it started rain very hard indeed, just right for my shopping trip. As usual Vikas did a great job of getting his car as close to the front door of the shop under the canopy. However this means driving onto the pavement, beeping at pedestrians - just right to help us white people blend in with locals! So anyway he pulls up under the canopy although I only realise to late that it is right on the edge and as I open the door all of the cascading rain water from the roof drenches me in seconds. Noone laughed at least not outwardly.
When I got back home I realised that I had forgotten some things. So off out again, this time with Darcy in tow. Might have mentioned that it can get a bit wet out here - never fear Darcy has the solution, go shopping in your swimming costume. If I thought we attracted attention normally walking about with Darcy in a stripy swimsuit carrying a little red and white brella, the locals went into overdrive. Took us 10 minutes to get back into HSBC from the car!
Picked Max up from school and his report on the trip was that it was 80% good! Round to the bike shop and he is the proud owner of a 'Hero' BMX. Cost a huge Rs3000 about £42 and included a bell, even though the bike already had one and Max didn't want a second bell and a bike lock. Max delighted, Vikas asked how much - on the basis that I had just spent the equivalent of half Vikas' monthly salary on a bike I was inclined to state a lower price.
Going to Teri's flat warning tonight with the others, Jason issued a challenge to find the most tacky gift - challenge accepted, we located a shop selling religious artifacts. I managed to get a gold plated plastic, plastic jewel encrusted, model of Ganisha mounted in a plastic container with a red umbrella ontop. It really was a beauty and came gift wrapped in bright pink paper for Rs300. Jason beat me though with a beautiful model Buda, sitting astride what looked a big frog who in turn was on a big pile of money. Teri hid her horror well and placed them on display, we will check to ensure they remain in pride of place!
Thursday, 12 August 2010
13th August 2010 - Thank crunchie it's Friday
Struggled a bit this week to be fair, very tired after last weeks illness it really took it out of me.
Independence day celebrations at work today, I have suggested that to keep a sense of realisim that the British management team clear off at about 4pm today and leave the Indian managers to it, although so far my suggestion hasn't been taken up.
Max has school this weekend, a trip on Saturday and Independence day celebrations on Sunday - poor lad nothing quite like being the only British boy in the school and having to celebrate the British being kicked out!
Independence day celebrations at work today, I have suggested that to keep a sense of realisim that the British management team clear off at about 4pm today and leave the Indian managers to it, although so far my suggestion hasn't been taken up.
Max has school this weekend, a trip on Saturday and Independence day celebrations on Sunday - poor lad nothing quite like being the only British boy in the school and having to celebrate the British being kicked out!
Wednesday, 11 August 2010
11th August 2010 - One of those days
Some days you sring out of bed and nothing in the world can dent your resolve to have a good day. Today is not one of those days. Having just spent the last 30 minutes fruitlessly looking for a shop, as a range of people and even texting/Mitra to help we pull up outside a school and 4 security guards do their best to help and only succeed in pissing me off still further. Now sitting in silence as I sulk on the way to work, whilst my driver alternates between cracking his knuckles, scratching his balls and burping (Vikas is sick so I have a replacement who doesn't speak English and doesn't know where he is going)
India independence day on Sunday which will make us feel special as it celebrates the British leaving India - if only.
India independence day on Sunday which will make us feel special as it celebrates the British leaving India - if only.
Tuesday, 10 August 2010
Combined post to catch up! 11 August 2010
Got a bit behind for a number of reasons. I was sick last week with stomach problems and had to lay low for a few days. Still not feeling great but back at work and trying to get stuck into everything that needs doing all at once.
Dad flew over on Friday 6th and I went with Vikas to pick him up. I was brilliant to see him and was an excellent way to end the week. We then went to pick up Max from school as a big surprise which went down very well - such a happy Max to have his Parf here. Met up with Susie and Darcy and went to the Renaissance for afternoon tea, a ride on the pimped Tuk Tuk and to say Hi to our friends. In the evening Dad and I went to the Beatle hotel for a beer or two. Saturday we went to visit a few Bollywood film sudios which was a laugh, especially as Dar was pretending to be a monster so keeping her quiet was a challenge during filming and Max ran through a shot to get out of the rain! Think we are welcome back!
Sunday we went to South Mumbai, got pulled by the Police as usual and had lunch in the Taj hotel, up in the Seaview resturant which was very smart.
Dad flew over on Friday 6th and I went with Vikas to pick him up. I was brilliant to see him and was an excellent way to end the week. We then went to pick up Max from school as a big surprise which went down very well - such a happy Max to have his Parf here. Met up with Susie and Darcy and went to the Renaissance for afternoon tea, a ride on the pimped Tuk Tuk and to say Hi to our friends. In the evening Dad and I went to the Beatle hotel for a beer or two. Saturday we went to visit a few Bollywood film sudios which was a laugh, especially as Dar was pretending to be a monster so keeping her quiet was a challenge during filming and Max ran through a shot to get out of the rain! Think we are welcome back!
Sunday we went to South Mumbai, got pulled by the Police as usual and had lunch in the Taj hotel, up in the Seaview resturant which was very smart.
Monday, 2 August 2010
3rd August 2010 - Dr L H Hiranandani
This is the name of the hospital as opposed to the actual Dr I'm seeing today. My Dr is AWOL at present so not clear when I'll actually get to see anyone, spoke too soon, she has just turned up, bet the weather or traffice is to blame!
Sunday, 1 August 2010
2nd August 2010 - Back to work
Feeling more human today so off to work.
Issues continue with Max not wanting to go to school, wanting to go home etc etc. Poor lad, it is a tough time for him and I hope we manage to get through it with him, in the long run it will be worth it just tough going at present.
Watched the F1 last night, great now that we have cable TV so we at least can enjoy some normality.
On my way to work I saw a traffic signal showing solid red and alternate flashing amber and green - think the monsoon has affected it!
Vikas complimented me on my shaving this morning, appears that he is 'trainning' to shave himself having always gone to a barber to get a shave. He proudly showed me his clean shaven face (apart from the mustach) and the nicks from his trainning shave!
Issues continue with Max not wanting to go to school, wanting to go home etc etc. Poor lad, it is a tough time for him and I hope we manage to get through it with him, in the long run it will be worth it just tough going at present.
Watched the F1 last night, great now that we have cable TV so we at least can enjoy some normality.
On my way to work I saw a traffic signal showing solid red and alternate flashing amber and green - think the monsoon has affected it!
Vikas complimented me on my shaving this morning, appears that he is 'trainning' to shave himself having always gone to a barber to get a shave. He proudly showed me his clean shaven face (apart from the mustach) and the nicks from his trainning shave!
1st August 2010 - Off sick
Few days off the radar due to sickness - god only knows what I'd eaten but my body obviously wasn't happy, all I'm going to say is that I am grateful I only have two orifaces as this was more than enough to cope with!
First day to try some food, just bought some chicken and I'm going to have it with noodles, can't wait.
First day to try some food, just bought some chicken and I'm going to have it with noodles, can't wait.
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