Family visit!

In mid-December 2008 Jonathan's parents, Neil & Janet Lovitt, came (literally) half-way around the world to spend some time with us. Having them here was a great reason to do some touristy things and see some of India's rich cultural heritage. We met them in Delhi and hit the ground running to see as much as we could in two short days. First stop in Delhi was the Red Fort, or La Qila. Shah Jahan (same guy who built the Taj Mahal) built this of red sandstone; it was completed in 1648.



The marble inlay work on the columns was amazing and beautiful!



The next day we took the train to Agra to see the (need it be said) famous Taj Mahal. It was truly impressive! Jonathan had a great time shooting photos. Here's a classic "post-card" shot he took.



Looking touristy...



Admiring the craftsmanship...



A huge cow (the one with horns) on the grounds of the Taj. Seriously, it was immense, very tall.



You've seen the front a million times but have you ever wondered what it looks like behind the Taj? Now you know...



Our last stop was Fatehpur Sikri - a city near Agra built by Emperor Akbar; it was his capital from 1571-1585 and pretty much abandoned after that. Here we are in front of the Buland Gate there.



During the time we had together in Darjeeling we spent a relaxing day at the Barnesbeg Tea Estate where our friend is the manager. It was a beautiful place with flowers, gardens, fruit trees, amazing food, and great hospitality.



My friend Rita taught Mom Janet how to make momos - steamed veggie-filled dumplings. Yum!



The visit was far too short but it was great to be able to share a bit of our lives with our loved-ones.