Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We walked past a rather intriguing facade several times, but failed to realize the magic inside. After several days and building curiosity, we finally found ourselves inside the Gilamar Carpet Museum. While the aging structure showed signs of generational restoration; as we looked up towards the cupola, evidence of the former mosque was apparent. While I have a rather profound love of carpets, I was drawn to the reinvented geometry adorning the ceiling.

India (December 2016) – I had the privilege of celebrating the right of passage for a "youngster into manhood". Brahmin men go through a ceremony for which they enter into priesthood permitting them to perform socio-religious rituals; including prayers, weddings, birth and death rites. We gathered together for both the religious declarations and to party late into the night.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – We drove through the desert of Karakalpakstan; from Muynak to Nukus. We saw a number of monumental sites including Chilpyk Kala, a 2200 year-old Zoroastrian Tower of Silence. While no longer in use as burial tomb, the site had a interesting feeling about it. I climbed up the rocky outcrop alone to find a 14 year old boy drawing in baking sun. Using pantomime and his notebook, he described the architecture of the structure we were standing on.

Uzbekistan (November, 2019) – Security is abundant at Registan square; each portal has a uniform guard or two. We hurried around as the light diminished, cascading light reflection on the exterior facade. Our last evening in Samarkand; we engaged in a little side hustle and gained late passage into the historical site. It was a lovely starry night.

India (December, 2016) – On our last day in Varanasi, we went for a walk along the ghats for our last gaze at the auspicious activity happening in and around mother ganga. We could hear the music from around the bend; instead of finding a musician, we discovered a snake charmer and his collection of cobras.

India (May, 2017) – It was super hot and sticky, but the family piled into the car and drove to meet a boat. For several hours under the scorching sun we drifted around the mangroves of the Sundarbunds in search of flora and fauna; deers, monkey's, alligators and course the bengal tiger. It was more of a fantasy; most of the squad spent the afternoon sleeping in shaded spots. Likely due to the fevered temperatures the animal sightings were sparse, the tigers far more elusive.

India (December, 2016) – Meandering through archaeological ruins of Sarnat was a welcome relief after several days in Varanasi. The gardens surrounding the Dharmek stupa imparted expressions of philosophy, theology, anthropology and a little romance.