Back in Bangalore

Our trip to Hyderabad was very enjoyable. Even with a few glitches in the pre-arranged tours, Amy and the kids saw just about all the essentials, and my conference was reasonably productive and useful. I was able to spend the last day (Saturday) touring Golconda Fort and the Tombs (see blogs from the boys below). Coincidentally, some of my family (paternal) lived in Golconda (Illinois, that is, click here). I assume that the Illinois town was named after the Indian one (which was very famous for its diamonds and overall wealth).

Most importantly to me, our family remains healthy and happy. The children are playing together for hours on end without significant conflict (despite the recent and sizeable shift in the balance of power brought about by Thomas' growth spurt). We've had a few incidents of 'bad water' and its after-effects, but they were short and manageable. The kids seem to like the food and are not pining for junk food (see picture of Thomas in the sleeper car eating vegetable rice for breakfast today). I feel very blessed. The next big event happens tomorrow--the beginning of school for the kids.