I really enjoyed biking around Lumbini today.  The place, as a whole, is pretty fascinating.  There were clearly grand plans at one point that fell a little short.

I rented a bike this morning and started to bike to the temples I didn’t get to visit yesterday.  There are some really impressive, beautiful temples.  There are also some that either aren’t as impressive and beautiful, or are still in the process of being completed.  Some of them look like they’ve been under construction for a very long time and that they’ll stay under construction (perhaps forever).

It was very hot today – like above 90 degress F.  It rained in the morning, but the afternoon sun was scorching.  I wore a hat, applied lots of sunscreen and drank plenty of water, but I’m still exhausted from the day.  I did really enjoy Lumbini.  It’s quite spread out and definitely rough around the edges.  It’s beautiful, though.  And the swamps and cattails reminded me of home in Minnesota.  I love how there are these opulent temples right next to other ones that look derelict.

I’m really glad I decided to come here.  I also got lots of time to think and reflect today.  It’s been wonderful.

I’m getting up early in the morning to catch the bus which means it’s going to be a very early night.

Gratitude List:

Discovering that chicken chilly is really wonderful

Being in such a magnificent place

Riding a bike for the first time in a while