We got to sleep late last night as we watched some wedding video from Lal’s sister, Bobie. Nearly five years ago to the week, when we were visiting in 2004, she got a visa for work in a hospital in Cyprus. She met and recently married a Cypriot man. The video was a bit boring but it did keep us up til midnight. That really was okay as I had an extended nap yesterday afternoon due to a bout with another bottle of arrack.
We sort of packed slowly throughout the day. We arrived with three bags and are leaving with just two. The collapsible third is inside one of the others. Strangely, they feel heavier as they shed their original gifts but are returning with the addition of unusual foodstuffs.
I have been to Sri Lanka at least six times but never drank any toddy. It is the juice of tapped coconut tree flowers. The flower is cut and the juice that runs is already mildly fermented. Agile climbers collect the toddy which must be drunk fairly quickly or it turns to vinegar. It’s well known here and is the basis for the further distilled spirit mentioned two paragraphs back. Jay’s father ordered six-bottles worth which came in a large plastic jug. My verdict is that I can say I’ve had it, but probably won’t request it again. Its taste was interesting but not something that would become my favourite. It might make for an entertaining party though.
Dhamika, Jay’s sister-in-law, lives in a newly built house next door with her daughters. She had a big lunch for us all.
Hours keep moving in a march towards 10:00 pm. Leaving here is always harder than coming. These past four weeks have surely seemed to pass too quickly.