We have just completed three days in the mid hills of Nepal under the shadow or the Annapurna range. Breathtaking views in the early morning, but there many forest fires that have been burning for a while. This is because of the six-month drought. We are in Pokra in a lovely Hotel in the middle of the lake. We have lost a few pounds after taking a showering off all the dust we which we collected from not having running water for three days. It is a lovely spot. We were witness to a remote eye camp in Gulmi where we were treated like royals. Our arrival stirred celebrations in the town and we were greeted with flower garlands, tea and our own security. The whole town was out for this event. There were hundreds of people, young and old, who had travelled for miles to have their eyes checked. We also had the opportunity to witness a cataract surgery performed by Dr Salma, who will be coming to Vancouver in June for her fellowship at UBC. All the equipment was powered by generators as there are severe power cuts all day. Our trip to Lumbini was changed due to 11 days of strikes in the southern part on the Indian border. There many political issues and it was felt that it would safer to avoid this part of the trip, as we may get stuck with no road or air access out. The people of Nepal have been wonderful, kind and really friendly. In the morning, we will head back on a flight to Kathmandu for a cultural tour of some of the historic sites and some culture. So far we have loved every moment of our experience of this trip. Nagib