Sick day today for Lil. Well, it happened...no Laura Ingalls today. We started her on the antibiotics and gatorade. Hope she is well tomorrow. I think she was more bummed about missing out on the fun. The staff could not be more helpful and supportive. It was an unfortunate excuse for us to "take rest" as they say here and lay in bed with books and movies...which we have plenty of. Nature spoke to us this afternoon with big thunderstorms and thick rain before clearing to a crystal clear sky and now stars and moon. The cool air is the best medicine...in fact Lily said this afternoon.."I wish there was such thing as a Vermont Air freshener..I miss the smell". Hey, maybe that's a good idea!

I was able to sneak out to the kitchen while Lily napped for my cooking lesson...where I was basically sous chef for Rakesh. We made garlic nan, chicken tikka with vegetables and dal with rice...oh and cilantro mint sauce with green chilies. I was in heaven..tasting the sauces as we went. Of course, Rakesh measures not one thing....so it may take me a few tries to recreate..but I am looking forward to trying when I get home. It amazed me how basic and simple the kitchen was..just two propane burners on the counter, no stove or oven...although we did use the outdoor clay oven to roast the chicken, vegetables and nan. A feast for all senses!

Thank you for posting comments..makes us both feel connected to everyone at home. We love you and miss you.