durian challenge!

a dirty diaper burning on a pile of hair.  the worst B.O. mixed with wafting sewage.  a perfume of rotting flowers in toxic gas.  these are all descriptions i've heard for durian, a big, smelly fruit that is often well-loved in this part of the world.  it's usually issued with a warning, however; many places have signs: no durian allowed inside!  it's certainly a daunting fruit--one that most visitors are not eager to try. 

both katie and i had it growing up.  neither of us were fans.  ray had never experienced the incredible mix of slimy and chewy, silky and pungent.  i know so many people, however, who LOVE durian.  i've always wondered if it's a taste i would grow into one day.  a few months ago we had dinner with a man who grew up in indonesia and now lives in thailand.  he introduced us to his theory: if one will eat durian at least three times within a two week period, one would be changed to a durian-lover!  so the three of us (katie, ray and i) set out to be converted!  here are the pictures:

 durian!

 unsure about where this smelly journey will take us.

 ready, set, eat!

 ray finds himself pleasantly surprised and rates his first tasting a 7.

 katie is less impressed and designates a 3 to this try.

 i am unable to conceal my disgust.  a 2 is generous.  

 a few days later we were back for more!

 sadly, this round was not as good for anyone.  ray came down to a 5.

 katie holds steady at a 3. 

 yet again, i am impolite in my response.

 i barely manage to hold up a 1.

 last chance to turn us into believers!  and, yes!  katie gives it a 6!

 ray jumps back up to a smile and a 7!

 it was improved for me at a 3, but i'm still not happy about it!

a 3 with a smile, since i felt badly about all my faces....