We leave in a few hours to start our 10-day “medical trek” during which we’ll help set-up and conduct clinics in some of the harder to reach villages in the Himalayan mountains around Kathmandu, Nepal. No, we did not pull a “Doogie Howser” and obtain our MD’s in a frighteningly short period of time (but how great was his friend Vinny who would climb through his bedroom window? “DOOG!”).
Although we’ll be with doctors and medical students, Cyn and I are among the smaller “non-medical” portion of the team that is assisting the group by carrying out other supporting functions. More specifically, Cyn and I will be serving as pharmacists for the next ten days–a role we’re a bit wary of since it seems a bit more “medical” than “non-”, but one that we hope to carry out to the best of our abilities.
Again, I must apologize on the fewer blog posts lately. Africa and India didn’t leave much time for writing, and internet was rarely reliable (although I was able to get another essay published over at Ohio Authority). But just because I’ve been slacking doesn’t mean we can’t share Cyn’s amazing photos! You can find pics from our latest stops below.
In the weeks after our trek, we’ll be here in Kathmandu volunteering at a school (and staying at a house with reliable internet!). So we should have time to fill in the blanks on all that has happened in the past few months–all great things, we assure you.
Until then, we’ll be out of touch, but missing you no less! To the mountains…
With love,
Ryan and Cyn
Welcome to Exploring the Gap! We just got engaged and quit our jobs in New York to travel for a year on a tight budget. This blog includes short stories and pictures that we hope keeps us connected to home. Please explore for yourself and enjoy! 
Now you are in places that Laurie and I have not been. We still think this is a great way to spend a year. Keep up the work and happy travels.
The funny thing is that we’ve joked about being pharmacists before. Ya just take pills from the big jar, and put them in smaller ones. BOOM. PHARMACIST.
You’ll kill it!
Fabulous photos!!! You are truly having the trip of a lifetime. Can’t wait to hear more about the all of the color on everyone. What a great way to participate in the culture!!!
Love,
Aunt Elizabeth
Dear Ryan and Cynthia,
These photographs have left me speechless. Spectacular photography!!!
They are so vivid. India looks like such an amazing country. Oh how I love Indian food. Your photos were causing my stomach to growl and all I could do to satisfy my appetite, was to nibble on tamari almonds and a hand full of Newman Speltz pretzels. It didn’t do the trick. I’m craving my favorite Indian restaurant, Saffron Patch, as we speak….Please explain Happy Holi. I so enjoyed reading about Shankar and your drum lesson, Ryan. How cool was that?
Morocco brought back wonderful memories of my honeymoon, 25 years ago; however, we didn’t experience the breathtaking dessert, mountains and the picturesque town nestled in the mountains. Gorgeous sunsets. I loved the photos of the artisans, rug makers etc….How was sleeping in the tent, in the desert? It looked chilly, but very comfy.
The African safari looked like something out of National Geographic or the Discovery Channel. Those animals were so beautiful and amazing. Did you ever feel like you were in danger? How did Matt and Sarah meeting up with you, come to be?
You both look as darling as ever….thin but healthy.
Love you!
The pics are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing!
Dear Ryan and Cynthia,
Finally spent some time on your site. Hard to describe all the adventures and beautiful parts of the world.
My good friend from Marquette, Dr. Peter Hackett mirrored your Himalayan visit, but spending a couple years in Nepal with the natives and studying mountain sickness. H e is now one of the world’s experts and
climbed to the summit of Everest while there; don’t try it.
Enjoy the rest of the trip.
Looking forward to the main event,
Tom and Sue