In Folds Of Smile

Reflecting upon the year gone by, my heart swells with gratitude. It’s been a tapestry of moments, each woven with threads of adventure, love, and growth.

January welcomed me with the visit of a dear friend, igniting my love for road trips as we ventured to the serene North shore of Minnesota. We landed at a countryside folk class at a cafe which was the best part. An unexpected Instagram find led me to my first snow hike with a group of adventurous women.

February, always a cherished month, showered me with birthday joys and a journey back to India after a hiatus of three years. From the bustling streets of Delhi and the spiritual aura of Amritsar to the coffee-scented trails of Chikmagalur to the western ghats beauty, my soul feasted on experiences. This month also heralded the arrival of Snoopy, a furry ball of joy. Thanks to Shreya, who brought this bundle of high energy who was named Snoopy, with whom I crafted countless memories.

May brought familial warmth with Shreya’s parents joining us for her graduation. Together, we painted memories against the backdrop of Las Vegas and the enchanting Red Rocky Canyon Mountain. An I got pampered with amazing home cooked food and lots of warmth and love.

June gifted me with unexpected travels: a work stint in New Jersey and a nostalgic reunion in Florida with childhood friends. Standing at the Kennedy Center, I felt humbled to meet an astronaut and hear his experiences, a dream come true.

July, a month of celebrations, saw me dancing under the stars at my cousin’s wedding, surrounded by loved ones from near and far.

August and September whispered tales of San Jose and the tranquil beauty of Lake Tahoe. A road trip with my mother was punctuated with laughter, memories, and countless photographs.

October was rhythmic, filled with the beats of Dussehra and Garba. I danced, losing myself in the melodies of tradition.

November marked a poignant chapter as I bid adieu to Minnesota after seven memorable years. New Jersey beckoned, promising new horizons. The road trip with my mother, spanning cities and emotions, remains etched in my heart.

December ushered in solitude, a newfound independence. The days ahead shimmer with possibilities, dreams yet to be realized.

As I pen down these memories, I’m reminded that life often surpasses our plans in the most beautiful ways. Aspirations for the coming year are many, but at its core, I hope for growth, dance, health, and cherished opportunities. Here’s to the journey, with gratitude and hope.