Driver’s Ed in India

This morning we rose at 4:30am to take Pratap out to teach him to drive. We had to get up early to beat some of the traffic. He has been driving for a couple months, but lacks confidence and a patient teacher. I shared that I certainly would not want the experience of learning to drive in India and that my learning experience couldn’t have been more different from learning to drive here. Pratap drove us to a hotel near his work for breakfast. I appreciated the slow trip because I could see everything we passed and take a few photos that aren’t a complete blur. Philip suggests that Pratap drive to work instead of taking the motorcycle because he’d be better protected. I suggest he practice more with being assertive and maneuvering amongst the other cars, bikes, etc.We visited the Amazon office in Madras today. Philip met several of his co-workers who he has only spoken with on the phone. Pratap and I hung out in the food court of the office building while he went up to say hi. They were shocked to see him here and even more shocked to hear that he actually drove to the office. I was introduced to an unfamiliar kind of citrus fruit—kambili narangya. It is the largest citrus fruit I’ve ever seen—practically the size of a human head. Philip’s uncle sent it back with his parents from Kerala so that we could try it. It was HORRIBLE. It was not juicy at all and felt and tasted like grapefruit covered toothpicks. I’ve also tried about 11 different kinds of bananas and plantains. All the shops have bananas and coconuts for sale.Two of Philip’s aunts live very close by. They sort of breeze in and out of here at their leisure. I’m sure they are harmless, but seem to have a rough exterior. It is understandable, though, as they raised Philip and have a very maternal attachment to him. They just don’t get my jokes. Maybe I talk too fast when I make a joke. Philip’s mom had to warn his aunt in Malayalam this morning that I can understand their conversations and to not talk about me when I’m in the room. I find that amusing.