Naughty and Nice By: Lilly Randall

 

 

Time in India has flown by! But at the same time so much has happened that I feel like I’ve been here for longer. It’s so sad to think that I only have one more day at the school with the kids. They get cuter (and naughtier) every day. Their personalities are really starting to come out. I honestly don’t think words can do justice how happy and adorable they are. I asked Ashley if I could just use pictures for my blog because technically a picture is worth a thousand words but she said no so I will try my best haha. Their little smiles are so cute and their eyes light up as soon as you look at them. This little girl named Kanika is the tiniest (and most shy) thing you’ve ever seen but as soon as I look at her the cutest smile spreads across her face. Then I hold out my arms and she runs to me and jumps in my arms. It is my favorite thing in the world! But once she wraps her arms around me she doesn’t let go. Another little boy named Aditiya is probably my favorite… I probably shouldn’t have a favorite but I did haha. Don’t get me wrong though, I love them all more than I ever thought I could. The reason why I love him so much is because on the first day he was SO stubborn and would not listen to anybody. He would just sit in the corner, fold his arms and pout (he honestly looked like me in that picture from when I was like 4 and I’m just pouting on the grass). As the days have gone by he slowly starts to interact more and more. First, he would only join in for the games, then he started listening to the lessons, and now he answers questions and is super responsive and always wants to be by my side. He walked down with the group to the place where our bus picks us up the other day and he held my hand the whole time it was too cute! It is so rewarding to know that I have been able to teach these kids and build a relationships with them. I joined YMAD because I wanted to be able to make a difference in these kids lives, but they have honestly made a way bigger difference in mine.

On another note we have had so many fun adventures here! On the way home from school one day we got to crash an Indian wedding which was sooooo cool! We got to see a little part of the ceremony and participate in some of the dancing which was a very unique and exciting experience. Today we walked through the market and did a little treasure hunting haha. I took a picture of all the produce for you mom so here it is haha. The food here is SO good! I love it all. I am so sad there is only a week left but I am so thankful for all of the amazing experiences I’ve had.