Feb 18 2024

I came down to the city of Thiruvananthapuram via the Trivandrum airport. I arrived about 6pm. I didn’t check luggage so I was on my way to the prepaid taxi. They seemed to know exactly where my hotel was. I don’t think I have ever been on a worse taxi trip. I knew it was going to be about an hour but I didn’t know that he would nearly miss two humans and actually try to hit a dog. More later. Too tired. Headed to Jaipur tomorrow via airplane. Staying at the Sunday Hotel.

Arrived safely at the hotel. And he finally found it. Check in was easy. I hung out and waited for Shirley. She would arrive around 2am. It was so great to see her after so many years. I will post her beautifully written account of our history later. She is a dear friend of so many years.

This is Varkala beach. It is a Holy place. So many people come for the sunset and sunrise. We did both. Luckily her driver could drive us very close and pick us up. During the day we went to a beautiful beach area with the Arabian Sea on one side and backwaters on the other. After sunset we had a very good dinner surrounded by expats.

“In April 2008, I had the pleasure of meeting the warm and caring Suzanne (Dr. Suzanne Popp) in San Diego during a Rotary GSE visit. Instantly drawn to her kindness, a beautiful friendship blossomed. What initially started as a week-long stay at her house became a cherished tradition, with Suzanne reciprocating the warmth by visiting me in 2010 and me visiting her in 2012 in Coronado, San Diego. Despite the vast distance between our continents, our connection has thrived for over 11 years.

Our recent reunion in Varkala, Kerala, was a testament to Suzanne’s warm spirit. Filled with heartfelt conversations, walks along the beach during sunrise and sunset, and tranquil moments by the backwater banks, our time together, though short, was deeply meaningful. The memories created during this visit are treasures I hold dear.

Suzanne’s welcoming home and her caring nature transcend borders, exemplifying the enduring beauty of connections that withstand both time and distance. Grateful for the simple joys shared with such a beautiful soul, I reflect on the profound impact of a friendship nurtured by warmth and genuine care.”

Shirley is the warmest, nicest person. She was and is a perfect example of a welcoming, accepting, adventurous, infectiously beautiful woman. She has two children at University and a kind husband that lets her be independent.

Our time together was too short. We have many more pictures!!

Shirley had to leave Sunday afternoon to drive 8 hours back home! Who does that? My dear friend, that’s who!

I decided to do the backwater trip I had wanted to spend a few days on a boat, but I didn’t have time and the reviews were not great, besides it’s hot, muggy and buggy so an hour was perfect!