Getting Closer

Slow days. Today was supposed to be one, yet it seems like in Bhutan no day can be a slow day, when there is so much to soak in. From the four hour drive from the Punakha Valley, through Thimphu to Paro, to a peaceful moment sitting in the Himalayan mountains surrounded by prayer flags flapping in the wind, this day was packed with reflective thoughts, good food (pizza for lunch) and lots of laughter. 

Our “slow” days here really mean a long drive with a couple of really meaningful activities throughout the day. Our first stop was Dochula Pass, 108 chortens, built by the eldest Queen Mother. After that we were off to the post office in Thimphu. Here we got the chance to create personalized stamps with pictures of our loved ones. It allowed us to reminisce about those we left at home.  It also gave us the chance to send postcards of our new learnings back home. We have realized that sometimes it’s all about the people you are with, good views and the food you are eating.

Today we got to experience moments where sharing meals brought us closer together. We took a pit stop at Karma‘s daughter‘s wonderful bakery in Paro. A bakery where she makes each and every donut alone by hand. Can you believe you have to order the donuts at least a day in advance? She starts her baking at 6am! We were so lucky to have a chance to indulge in these precious treats. With each bite, we could feel the love and attention she put into her baking. Usually, something like grabbing donuts in the middle of a road trip would be dismissed, but this country somehow makes you stop and truly appreciate the little things.

We ended up at a beautiful hotel on the river in Paro. We are off to hike to Tiger’s Nest early in the morning. We can’t wait to embark on both the slow days and the busy ones with the little time we have left. We are trying our best to appreciate every minuscule moment.