Novemeber has come and gone, I can't beleive it. I'm so sorry that this blog hasn't been updated in forever. This is partly my fault and also a genuine lack of time. It's fair to say I've been keeping busy. Diwali was on the 9th of this month and was an experience and a half. India, for three nights, becomes a war zone. Its slightly dangerous to say the least.

(urgh Internet cafes in india!! I just lost everything I typed in the last half hour. it was a lot. i'll start again then.)

To celebrate Diwali I went to a fun day at one of the orphanages I work at. The evening involved lots of eating, dancing, playing games and unfortunatley letting of fireworks with 40 over excited children. Indian's haven't really grasped the concept of health and safety. I threw and burning firework out of a childs hand and pulled a three year old away from lighting a fire cracker (which are like little bombs) with a sparkler. You had to be there to understand my horror.

For the last week or so I have been taking Creative Art sessions by myself which has been challenging but at the same time a whole lot of fun. The session are becoming more successful. Last week I had two great sessions. One, i made jewellery with them and the other we made photo frames and put pictures of the children with their best friends in them. This was great because these children were orpahans and don't really have many personal possessions. They were all very grateful.

As well as the day to day volunteering I have been taking all the opportunities I can to travel. I have been to Hyderababd and Goa this month. Its great to get away from Bangalore for the weekends, as i've done most of what there is to do in Bangalore. Hyderabad is an old historic town in the neighbouring state of Andra Pradesh. It really pretty and a good weekend as there was lots too do. This weekend I went to Goa, which is a westerners paradise. But not really India at all, Indian's there are a different breed. lol they are highly more relaxed. Both times we went by train, which is and experience in itself. The trains are cold, busy, smelly, noisey and have mice crawling around on the floor. However from the window there are the most fantastic views of India. From the vast mud fields to lush plam trees and rice paddies. It's funny to be in the middle of nowhere and suddenly see a random person walking along the side of the railway lines, I wonder where on earth he is going.

By the way, there aren't really elephants In Bangalore as my profile picture would insinuate its just the only option it gives me, unless I upload my own pictures. Which I am trying hard to do. I seem to encounter a problem everytime I try. I will find a way soon, promise.

I can't believe it's nearly December. Nearly Christmas, which I'm slightly too excited about. I'm really looking forward to seeing mum, dad and Adam and going to Goa again. :P Actually very near to where i just was. Anyways. hope everyone is well. If you have any questions ask me and i'll talk about it all in my next blogs.

lots of love, Holly xxxx