WEEK THREE IN BASTORA

We have crossed the 21 day mark from the move to our new home in Bastora. 

Week one went in a flurry of putting things in place and carpentry work which went well into week two. Finally, last Sunday the carpenters left and there was an eerie silence. 

My pets, who had been disturbed by this new place with all the strange people, entering and leaving, were now able to explore their territory especially Kitty who refused to show herself and remained deep in the recesses of the cupboard all those noisy days. 

The first day that I was actually alone was when both my boys were away, and I got scared and bolted myself in the master bedroom after securing the front door. 

Living on the ground floor is completely different from living in an ivory tower on the last floor of a building. Here you are exposed and have to be very careful to be properly attired. You also need to keep the gate locked or anyone could just walk in uninvited. 

I have met quite a few of my immediate neighbours - Patsy, Diego, Dominick, Annie, Hema. I also was happy to know that Dr Aparajita, who lives in our wing, is a vet. By sheer coincidence, I also met a family from the other wing who live in Mumbai at the church one day. 

Each morning, I wake up at 5.30 am to prep Aaron's tiffin and breakfast before my alarm reminds me that its time to dress and go for Mass. Its a nice walk to the church, a five minute walk from the building. What a blessing! 

I return home and as I near the building, the Bal Rath bus passes by. Some of the MBBS boys are on that bus and they wave out to me. Its a good feeling seeing them every morning. 

Today morning, Glenn came home to clean the stubborn cement stains from the sections where we had demolished walls. He used acid and a brush, and it was like waving a magic wand over the areas. 

Prior to this, I had tackled the paint and cement stains in the bathroom, a backbreaking task, I must say. But the end results were worth the effort, even though I did get a slight cold in the bargain. 

We are now looking forward to the housewarming day which is on 25 Nov. We have invited a few key persons associated with our groups and Fr Jose Sequeira, SDB, from MBBS Paliem has kindly consented to come to do the blessing. 

The Bank 

I went to the bank today morning via the panchayat road to collect my cheque book, and we took the route back from Balbot side. Dan was with me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the ramble. We picked up some pois from St Roque bakery which is close to the bank.

We saw this Cross decorated on the way through Balbot and stopped for a click. 

In the evening, I persuaded my reluctant TV addicted sons to come with me for a walk. We took the same circuit Dan and I had taken in the morning. I think we will make this a regular every Saturday as it is the only day when Aaron is at home. 

The five stray dogs who are fed by the neighbours followed us upto a certain point. Aaron took a video. Will try to take a screenshot but it won't do justice. However, on our way back, we saw two of them relaxing in the field and took a random shot. 

There were two wedding groups taking scenic pictures at the church and on the road flanked by coconut trees. Bastora does have some great spots for exclusive wedding photography. 

Village life is way different and I am loving it! People here wish you good day even if you are a stranger to them! The bank service is quick which is a big blessing. I have transferred much of my investments over this month to the new bank as it also offers a better percentage. 

My eldest son drops Aaron in the morning to catch the bus to Panjim and picks up things I need on the way back. I was able to get fresh flowers as a result on our special occasions. I just love having fresh flowers around the house! 

So, that's the news so far. Till my next post,