My friend has arrived from Australia and the sight of a friendly face brings peace to my fretful soul. She came to Kathmandu about five years ago and even though I was starting to make peace with my surroundings, I was still interested to see it through her eyes. Also there was the added benefit of being one of a pair, having someone watch your back as you watch theirs. I felt a whole new level of confidence as we strolled into the streets browsing in shop windows admiring the pashminas and jewelry. She is so much better than I am about keeping merchants at arms length. When I see one coming, I bolt because I know that I am such a soft touch, but she makes it very clear that “I’m just looking today, thank you”. It’s brilliant. I’m so glad that she is here. This trip is looking better already.
