A unique opportunity

For the last couple of days, David, along with our other two male co-workers, has been attending a conference. Actually, David and our co-workers were invited to attend the conference as guests, since they wanted more foreigners to be a part of it. :) It is actually turning out to be a great opportunity for us, as the conference focuses on learning about and preserving the Tuvan culture. Not only are the guys able to hear teachings on different aspects of the Tuvan culture (such as why horses are so important to them), but they are also being able to observe several different cultural events. For instance, last evening, a Shamanistic ritual was performed for those attending the conference to observe. (Shamanism, which is practiced throughout the world, is very important to the Tuvans. Actually, T-land is considered to have some of the most well-known and powerful Shamans in the world, and many want to learn from them.) David said it wasn't easy or pleasant to watch the ritual being performed, but, as we need to learn as much about the Tuvan culture as we can, it was important for us to see. David got quite a bit of it on video, but here are just a few photos that our co-worker took as well.

Early this morning, David left for the last two days of the conference, which will be taking place at the well-known Salt Lake, not too far from the city. The kids and I miss him, but are glad he has this opportunity to learn more about the culture. Hopefully he'll be able to get more pictures and videos!