It was an early start this morning with alarms ringing at 5:30am. Even though we have enjoyed every minute of our time with the children, today it was time for us to experience this country's beauty, including one of the seven wonders of the world. We set off on our exhausting 4 hour journey with the ASHA team from Royal School Armagh.
(We took advice from your comments about looking after Mr Donnelly and let him get his beauty sleep.)
We were greeted with tea and coffee at the beautiful 5-star Trident hotel. We were also pleased to meet up with another team here, the Saphara team from Northern Ireland, and a few of us got to see some of our friends from back home.
Following this break, it was time to make our way to Agra Fort with our tour guide Sanje, who entertained us with dad jokes about kangaroos and parrots. We were guided around less than 25% of the two and a half kilometre long fort and it still felt like our feet had run a marathon. The breathtaking views from Agra Fort fuelled our excitement for our trip to the Taj Mahal which was to come after lunch.
Back to the wonderful Trident, where we had a buffet of traditional Indian dishes including Dahl, paneer and some other unspecified concoctions. Chats with the Armagh team allowed us to share our experiences of the different slums, however, Adam and Jonny were too preoccupied with the challenge of devouring two green chillies... again.
Now for the highlight of our day, the Taj Mahal. A tight squeeze on a mini bus took us to the Royal Gate. With anticipation, we walked towards the archway which presented us with a postcard perfect image of the Taj. Plenty of photos and long photo shoots with strangers used up the majority of our time, but in the breaks between adjusting to our new found celebrity status, we took time to admire the beauty of this vast, intricate building.
A good aul Micky D's and another four hour journey back to The Legend Inn ended the day. As good as today was, we are all looking forward to returning to Tigri on Monday to see the happy faces of the children in the slums.
Stephanie, Laura, Jessica and Matt
Halfway through our time in India we thought it would be good for everyone to share some of their thoughts to date:
Aimee - India is like nothing I could have ever imagined and I'm having the absolute best time of my life. The Taj Mahal today was so beautiful but I can't wait to get back to the children on Monday to witness their joy and the positive attitude that they have towards life.
Lauren: Delhi has far exceeded my expectations! The colours are brighter; the smells are more... vibrant and the people are far more inspiring than I ever could have imagined!
Erin: My experience so far has been a whirlwind. Despite only seeing the kids for two days I can't wait for Monday to get back to the centre. Every day is filled with joy, love, laughter and excitement!
Jonny: My time in Delhi so far has been life-changing. It has given me memories I will always hold dearly and has shown me how grateful I should be for all that I have. The children in Tigri are a true inspiration and their commitment to their studies and helping others is extraordinary.
Steph: The children in Delhi have completely changed my outlook on life already and I've only been with them for two days. I'm inspired by each and every one of them and I hope I can learn even more from them during my time.
Rachelle - Going to Tigri is such an amazing experience, as seeing people with so little but so much happiness brings a smile to everyone's faces. The Taj Mahal was gorgeous today but did not compare to the amount of satisfaction you receive from being in the slums.
Suzanne: The ASHA children and students in the Tigri centre have been so inspiring and have completely changed my attitude towards life and other people already. Delhi has been everything I expected and so much more, I can't contain my excitement to return to the resource centre on Monday and spend another day with these amazing children. PS Amazing 18th Birthday x
Bethan - India is incredible! I love everything about it (except the smell)! Working in the slum has been nothing like I expected and already I love each and every child who I've met and can't wait to get back to see them for more dancing to Justin Bieber!
Zak: Delhi, WHAT A PLACE!!!! I'm having a blast getting to work with the children in the centre, I'm even teaching a little French and learning some Hindi! Each day makes me think about my outlook on life, and how the work of ASHA has made a real difference to Tigri.
Adam: Delhi is 100 times better than I ever imagined! The people, the sights and the smells have blown my mind. It has truly opened my eyes and made me see a totally different meaning of life!
Katie: I am SO in love with Tigri and all the amazing children! They continue to inspire and challenge me... There is never a dull moment in the Asha Resource centre and I am buzzing to get back on Monday. Excited for what is yet to come...
Laura: I don't think anything could have fully prepared me for India. The children and college students are all full of enthusiasm, joy and determination despite their situations. I have enjoyed teaching and painting for them and can't wait to see them again! P.s. So far I think India is helping my fear of cows...
Matt- Wow! What a first 4 days in India. Tigri was unforgettable on the first 2 days and today was truly mind blowing. Agra Fort and the Taj Mahal were absolutely stunning. I can't wait to go back to Tigri on Monday and continue to support the work of ASHA.
Jessica: The people here are amazing and so driven - each and every one of them have amazing and uplifting stories which have made us all realise how lucky we really are! Their enthusiasm to learn and make a living for themselves has really made me see the importance of giving them an education.
Susanna: India is pretty unreal! The people of Asha's determination is inspiring and has shown me how much I take for granted; I can't wait to go back to Tigri on Monday! Mastering the children and young people's Hindi names is my next goal!
As staff, we couldn't be more pleased with our team and how they have coped with life in a very different culture - both its thrills and challenges. Life in India is never predictable and it has been so encouraging to see these pupils adapt and cope as goalposts have shifted every day. Whether giving impromptu speeches, organising spontaneous games with no equipment, adapting lessons designed for primary school age to share with college students, or wielding paintbrushes inside the lines, this team has done it all cheerfully and without complaining. Looking out for each other has become second nature. From birthday celebrations to award ceremonies, from slept-through alarms to silent raves in taxis, from curry for breakfast to masala crisps, we are making memories and having a wonderful time.
To each of the parents of the Asha 2017 team, you should be very proud of your children - we certainly are. To all of you reading this blog, thank you for your interest and your prayers - they are much appreciated and mean so much to each of us, pupils and staff.
John, Toni and Catherine
Update: We finally got some more photos up now that the wifi isn't playing up - enjoy!
It is fantastic to hear all your comments. What an experience you are all having. We love hearing about each of your days but especially today when you were each sharing a little of your own personal feelings.
ReplyDeleteGranny Jean says sends her love as does Granda Hammie
Hope you have another great day tomorrow.love mum, dad and Scott xo
Sounds like you are having a fantastic time. I loved reading all your individual thoughts on the trip. So proud of you Matt!
ReplyDeleteAmazing! You all look superb in your traditional dress. I’m sure today was quite an experience. Zak - Ulster are three points down as I type this. We’ll let you know how the NFL game goes tomorrow- we all miss you but are so pleased to see you looking so very happy.
ReplyDeleteYou all look fab in your saris its gr8 to hear that even though you all had an exciting day today you cant want to get back to those luvly kids missing you lots from your proud parents
ReplyDeleteZak - Ulster 10 Leinster 25, Hamilton on third behind Vettel and Verstappen. SecondLiverpool 3, Huddersfield 0- Jim Neilly has nothing on me!!
ReplyDeleteNever looked up a football score in my life....
Mum xo
What a day you have all had. You look brilliant too. I'm so pleased you are all enjoying yourselves but I am also proud that you are all looking forward to going back to work with the children - the main reason for your trip. However don't feel guilty about enjoying the sights as well. You all deserve it. Thanks to your three brilliant teachers. Sometimes we forget they are human too.!! Your comments about all our children were lovely, so thanks again for making it possible for them to have such a trip. Get some rest now, and can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Love The mclaughlins, granny granda and wee Gizzy.
ReplyDeleteReally envious of you having been to the Taj Mahal. It is on my bucket list but I doubtif it will be answered but your photos and comments Steffi will help to satisfy my wish. The children have obviously made you all realise how much we take for granted and expect and not always appreciate. It is great to be able to keep in touch and follow your adventure. Missing you Steffi Love from Gran Mo xxxx
ReplyDeleteCan’t believe you went all the way to India and met shealyn from Ballymena ... aimee we are all at the Halloween party at the caravan park and I’ve been inundated with plfriends asking about you - enjoy the rest of your stay x
ReplyDeleteDon’t you all look fab in your Indian outfits! Great to hear how well you are getting on. Loving the fact that you could only upload 3 pics but you still included the one of Mr Donnelly sleeping?! Sounds like you’re making staff and parents proud. Well done everyone. Mrs McFarland
ReplyDeleteReally loved the photograph taken at the Taj Mahal. Great to hear all your thoughts on India and how this trip has impacted your lives.
ReplyDeleteTime changes here tonight. We get an extra hour in bed.... but we image you don't! Never mind you can catch up on your sleep on Sat 4th November.
Dad wants to know if you have seen any sacred cows?
Love the photos but it's been great reading your comments. Wonderful to hear that as a team you are placing more importance on the people you are meeting than the fantastic places you are seeing. Feel very proud of you all.
ReplyDeleteMorning! Amazing blog about your day yesterday and great to hear each of your thoughts on your experience so far. What really struck us what that, despite having a wonderful sightseeing day, you all can’t wait to get back to the children – what a great wee team you all are. Really special words from the teachers too, means so much, thank you. Please don't worry about the photos - the one of Mr Donnelly was the best anyway!! And Matt, Man Utd won, phew! But you were missed when they scored to do your usual celebrations 😊 Hope you all have a relaxing Sunday. Love you lots xoxo
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteA Saturday to remember 🇮🇳 Looks amazing!
ReplyDeleteFeeling moved by the love you have developed for the children of Tigri and impressed by Catherine,Toni and John's appraisal of how you all are managing the opportunity and it's challenges 👍🏼
Praying you all continue to learn and experience even more over the coming days as you see the sights of India and serve in the polyclinic.
PS hooked on the daily Asha blog fix...
Absolutely inspiring to read about how you saw one of the wonders of the world but it didn't compare to the wonders of tigri! Hard to believe you're half way through your trip!! Hope you get your batteries recharged today and enjoy more time together before you head out to tigri again tomorrow. You're doing a great job and it sounds like everyone is embracing all India has to offer. Have a great Sunday! Mrs L and Joshua xx
ReplyDeleteAll hair still looking good!
ReplyDeleteWhat a brilliant experience- the photos are amazing- even the one of Mr Donnelly! Can't wait to hear more when you arrive home but there is so much more to come.... Granny is keeping an eye on you Suzanne- she's reading the blog daily too. Looking forward to your reflections on the trip at the end of the week if these comments are anything to go by.
ReplyDeleteGot lovely photo from your Mum this morning .All my friends in St Patrick's had to see it and like me were impressed how like you were to Leanne . Looking forward to next news and pictures with the children Granda & gran Moxxxxx
ReplyDeleteHi everyone, absolutely loving the blog and all the photos- bringing back all the memories. The Taj is so beautiful- all your pictures are amazing! Im sure you are starting to hit a tired stage but seriously those kids keep you on your toes and give you all this energy you didn't know you had. Cherish every minute out there, all the sights and smells, it really is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Im so glad you are all getting on well out there and I wish I was there with you all. Send all my love to the kids and I am praying for you all.. Lots of love, Julz Kernohan xx
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear you're all having fun! Pictures look great. Wish I was there with you lot :) hope you're all having fun with the kids as well :)
ReplyDeletebtw this is Katie Moorehead :)