Hi Namgay,

I purchased a pair of traditional Bhutanese boots in Thimphu because Pema was wonderful enough to call the owner of the shop where they make them in Thimphu after he had closed, and have him open up his shop so that I could buy a pair.  That was so very special of him—just another one of the thoughtful things he did for us on the trip.

I wore them to our staff Christmas party at the Symphony yesterday, and everybody fell in love with them.  I thought you might get a kick out of seeing the boots “American style”  I will love wearing them, and they are such a very special reminder of my trip.

I was also wondering—if I call a cell phone in Bhutan, do you know if I just dial your country code, which is 975, or do I have to add a special number before I dial the cell phone number in order to get a cell phone?  I can’t seem to get that information from an operator here in the states.

I want to wish you and Namgay a very happy Christmas holiday.  I understand from Pema and other guides that I met that you do celebrate Christmas in Bhutan.  My heart is still in Bhutan, and everyday I think of my wonderful trip, and all the special people that I met.

I know Rinzin doesn’t have e mail, but if he is in Thimphu at any time, I would like you to share these photos with him, as of course he was with us when I bought the boots.

Again, my best wishes for the holiday, and I hope the New Year will bring many tourists to Bhutan and you will have a successful year.

Best regards,
Joani