The gaps between posts are getting longer and longer. I could blame this delay on myriad things but the truth is that life in our home is approaching normalcy and the urgency to reach out for support is getting less intense. I have debated and rejected the idea of closing the site. This connection has become more important and far-reaching than any of us could have imagined. We have used it to bridge the physical and emotional chasm of modern life. Sachi and I have drawn tremendous strength from it during a very vulnerable time in our life. It has come to be a chronicle of our wide spread extended family. Let us continue to wield its realm for the purpose of sharing the happenings in our minds and in our lives. There is nothing more noble and generous than opening of oneself for scrutiny by others. I am sure all of us have also benefited from its cathartic value. Today this blog graduates to The Family Journal. Babi has given voice to all our feelings at the passing away of Gana Mousa. Naren has shared a slice of his recent life with us. Here is what has been happening in our home.
Ravi has moved into his dorm. This year they have been given a two bedroom apartment meant for four boys (two in a room). It is a vast improvement over last year's cramped quarters. This week they are concentrating on football practice. He requested and got a home stitched bandanna in the colors of the Indian flag. He wears this on his head during practice and under the helmet during games. Now many of his other friends want to design and get their bandannas made too. Next week classes will start. Hopefully he will show similar enthusiasm for studies too.
Suraj, true to his word, is doing very well in his geography class. For his class paper he is going to write about the physical geography of India. Right now he is in California, vacationing with friends. He comes home tomorrow. The house is silent without the boys.
Jyoti and Jeff just came back from a week in California. Every time we talked to them they seemed to be at the beach soaking up the scenery. They cannot come to Lincoln for a week because they have to make up for the time they took off for this vacation. Jeff has painted the nursery room in beautiful colors and designs. Jyoti is adding her own special touches. They are both glowing during this waiting period before the advent of the baby. Our close friends ( Carmini and Asha ) are giving a baby shower to Jyoti next month. Sarbani and Sudesh (who have been like mothers to Jyoti) are doing the 'Godh Bharni' ceremony in our home for her. Bijoy mamu. Janet mai, Sangram mamu and my cousin Gurjeet (from New Jersey) will join us at this time. Naren will be coming over for few days towards the end of this month. We are looking forward to these family reunions.
Sachi has decided to keep working half time until October when he retires. His recovery seems to have plateaued for now. He continues to take Ensure as his main sustenance. He tries other foods but is not having very good luck. Mango Icecream is one exception. I guess it is not for nothing that mango is called the king of fruits.
This picture was taken last week when the kids celebrated Rakhi. They were all busy this week so they celebrated early. Sachi put on last year's rakhis to join in the picture. He put on his new rakhis yesterday. Torrey loved this festival and joined in wholeheartedly. I put my brother Kuku's picture in the prayer room among other family members who have gone ahead. Hope you all had a wonderful Rakhi.
Looking forward to reading about you. . . . . Ambi.
