18

I totally spazzed and forgot to post yesterday :( I'm supposed to post everyday thank God I'm one entry ahead. Yesterday was a slow day. I pretty much read all day because I got behind on Monday with other things.

 This new book I'm reading is even more addictive than the last one. I'm learning the sad truth about India's caste system. In fact, James and I were discussing how one of the guys in training is from India, and the caste system is still in effect. He is one of the upper castes of India so he doesn't get mistreated too often. He told James about how things are over there, positive and negative. On the positive side, weddings in India are celebrated a whole week. If you're of a higher caste you can expect things like lavish gifts at your wedding from the wife's family. He said that at his he will at least get a new Mercedes. (Again, this is the least he will get). Women in India still get married off with a dowry which can consist of money, property, land, etc.  In marriage a certain caste is only allowed to marry someone of the same caste.He told James that labor in his country is so cheap he has a man (of a lower caste) wash his car every day for cents a day. Here I thought that racism really existed between different races. :( I learned that the "untouchables" or lowest caste are, of course, the ones with the dirtiest jobs. For example, if a farm animal dies on upper castes land an "untouchable" is called to remove the animals carcass. Anyone else doing so brings disgrace upon their family. He told James that if he were to ever go to India to visit he would be treated like a king because of his education. Education in India apparently is hard to obtain and rare. Most don't go to college. I'll be honest I've had Indian friends (female) but upon meeting some of the native men I was a little afraid to speak. I know we're not in their country but I was not sure if they would talk to me being as women with strong opinions as myself are usually not allowed to voice them. I was a little intimidated so I let James do the talking (amazing, I know). I think the more I learn about the culture the less I will be intimidated. I just didn't want to offend.

The Indian Caste System :(

In other news, I added something to my tuna patty recipes that became MAN APPROVED. Last night I got the bright idea of adding avocado to my tuna patties (recipe coming soon) because I thought if I fried it in bread crumbs it would taste similar to the fried avocado they sell at La Playa. I was right! It tastes eerily similar and James loved it! You learn something new everyday or  in my case somethings!

Arlee Jenson, I adore your artwork!!

Gogogadgetgirl