My "home" in Kolkata

 So I've arrived in Calcutta, and have moved into a host family's home, for the next four months. My host family, the Chakraborty's, are extremely welcoming and helpful. As awkward as it was to take pictures of them and their home so early in our relationship, I bit the bullet, took one for the team, got it done, took care of business, or whatever other masculine accomplishment phrase you prefer that I'd use. The home is one floor, with a kitchen, living room, three bedrooms, and some hallways. Its extremely nice; very well decorated and delicate. Sometimes I catch myself juking around like Adrian Peterson (as I often do), and then I have to stop myself, because there is a glass figurine of a Hindu God or Eiffel Tower around every corner.

As you can see, quite nice. The couch is where I spend much of my time, drinking tea constantly and trying to make awkward small talk. 

A couple of Ganeshs playing chess. How humorous.

"ummm...yes, ok, thank you."

This is my host mother Shyamali. She's very nice. A few seconds ago she came into my room and said, "dinner at 7:30, yes? You hungry? Yes?" and then lovingly ruffled my hair. She enjoys playing cards, and teaching children how to read.

"You are...taking picture of me? Heuh heuh heuh." (however you spell deep manly chuckling)

This is my host father Ranjit. He's the man. He has this deep manly voice and is always chuckling in the funniest way. I can't find someone to compare it to...so this isn't helpful. 

He was at work, so I took a picture of this. Its in the kitchen.

This is my host brother Antarin. He's 30-something and lives with us (not uncommon for Indian families). He's the best. Super cool, very funny, and always helpful. Reminds me of an older Indian version of my real brother Kevin. Very nice to have him around. 

".........."

This is my roommate Erik. He's currently napping, after a long day of riding in a car through terrible terrible streets. 

This is where I sleep. -Shadow for artistic significance*

I don't have pictures of Calcutta, just at some point I will. Its a labyrinth of alleys and markets and cars and things. There are zero street signs, and zero pattern to any of the roads. The city has sidewalks (first time seeing those in India) and is for the most part safe. I am extremely excited to get out there and start exploring. There's too much to see, even in four months. Although school is starting too, and as we all know, school is for dweebs.

If you feel so inclined to send me a greeting card (birthday, president's day, or otherwise), package (more clothes would be nice), or just a blank envelope, please send correspondence to:

Adam Kunkel

AD 57 - Sector 1 - Salt Lake City

Kolkata

700064

India

Thank you. Please tell me about your life sometime as well, so I don't feel so damn selfish.