Colorful Nepal

The color assortment for Tihar.

The idea of visiting Nepal lingered for a while. I insisted on going during this time of year for two reasons: 1. The weather would be exceptional; 2. Dipawali/Tihar would be incredibly colorful. Luckily, it was just like I remembered it. Plus, everything looked extra bright after coming from dismal Qatar. It was a fanfare of bright flowers, vibrant colored powders, and lively fireworks. It did not disappoint.

Afton just so happened to be reading Eat, Pray, Love while we were in Nepal. I am not really a fan of the book, but the idea of summing up a city with one word really appealed to me. After being to so many countries and so many cities, there really is a vibe to each one. Some speak to me, some don't. Over a Nepali meal we all discussed the word for Qatar. Sadly, 'dry' was the most apropos word to describe Doha (in all its literal meanings). Conversely, I proposed that 'life' describes Kathmandu, and all of Nepal for that matter. It is a place for living. The colors denote life, the land and soil easily creates life, and the spirit of the country inspires rich living. When I returned, I felt alive again.

The dog puja is part of the Tihar celebration. I loved spotting the KTM dogs and the shameful look on each of their faces silently stating, 'I've been puja'ed'.

After enduring the dry Doha summer we all needed a splash of color in our lives. I think we were all thirsting for a little bit more vitality and life. And in Nepal, that was just what we found.