I am looking forward to getting back into fieldwork after the past week of extreme relaxation.  But it was nice to get to take a break.  Bombay is definitely a city that takes a lot out of you, and although I've only been here about 2 months, I already needed a rest!

Before I left for Kerala, I got a taste of what it feels like to navigate this city during the monsoon.  Its a bit more difficult.  Which is one reason I am quite happy with my change of schedule.

Because of the new Fulbright IIE research grant (which I found out last week that I received), I am cutting my current trip to India short-- I will be back in the US by mid-July.  Before I return, I want to get a feel for Calcutta, so I will be there for 2-3 weeks, starting June 24.  Once I return to the US, I'll write up my current research, apply for a research visa (which is quite a long process) and plan to return on the Fulbright for about six more months.  Not sure exactly when, but sometime early next year, I hope.  During the dry season :)

On one hand, its a great opportunity to refine/ expand my research, and especially to get a chance to step back and analyze things and figure out exactly what gaps I need to fill through my interviews and fact-finding.  On the other hand... I will take _even longer_ to finish my dissertation.  <sigh>

Thank you all very much for the congratulations, nice words and the birthday wishes!  I appreciate it :)