I sat in the aircraft with mixed emotions, as I was travelling alone to the US of A. It was not my first time, nine years ago I had travelled with my two kids to be with my brother’s family. But still this time it’s not the same. It was four months pretty long, leaving behind my loved ones.
From the plane I texted, “I miss you I am gonna fly far away I wish you were here “
Then came an instant beep -“ I am there with you “.
That text brought smiles to my face and I got back my excitement.
As the plane descended over the vast expanse of America, my heart quickened with anticipation. I was embarking on a journey that would not only take me across continents but also deep into the heart of family ties. For the next four months, it’s Amma, Appa, Kuttan, Rachita, Bommi, and Drish (my niece & nephew), a journey that promised to be filled with new experiences and most importantly moments of togetherness.
Amma, Appa, Bommi, and my brother were there to receive me and I was enveloped in the warmth of their hugs. As we drove through, I marvelled at the sights and sounds around me, Bommi’s chirpy talks in the US slang easing the weariness of the twenty hours of travel.
During my stay, I had the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of America, majestic mountains, beaches, Finger Lake, Niagara Falls, the bustling city of New York, its skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and a lot more. Every weekend was a new adventure whether it was hiking through National Parks, libraries, kids' school, Karaoke nights, backyard parties, Chat parties, Grill parties, or picnics to New York. I met Hershey, a member of our family, a pet dog and I spent most of the time with him. Taking him for walks, playing with him, and cuddling beside him became part of my daily routine. After lunch Amma Appa and I would retire to our room for a movie time and a quick siesta, Hershey knew it and would follow us. Movie time with some snacks and he definitely wanted his share. I knew it was a love “short-lived”, for just four months.
Festive time started and we all geared up. Inviting guests home, planning for dinners, visiting other friends, and engaging in the Pooja. It was time for us to deck up with all jewellery and sarees. Krishna Jayanti, Ganesh Chathurthi, Onam, Navratri, Diwali, and an array of festivities followed. For the Onam festival, I taught dance to kids and ladies online and we had a cultural show as well.
Diwali parties filled the month of October, and November and it was full of fun, delicious food to enhance our palette, sweets, and savouries, over and above all these, the most significant aspect was bringing families together.
My brother and sis in law asked me about the long trip, and whether I had any specific place in my bucket list. I said, “ I came to live here with all still as you are asking I want to see the fall season “. Thus the plan to visit Niagara, Finger Lakes, and the Corning Glass Museum was in action plan. It was a delightful blend of natural wonders and artistic treasures. From the serene beauty of Finger Lakes to the roaring cascades of Niagara, captivating exhibits at the Corning Glass Museum were a unique experience.
Finger Lakes region, is a picturesque place known for its natural beauty and world-class wineries. We cooked together and had a grill party with family and friends over there. A lot of photo sessions added a zing and we soaked in the tranquil atmosphere.
Breathtaking it was to see the milky white waterfalls enveloping us, Horseshoe falls greeted us with a thunderous roar and misty spray. Awestruck by the sheer power and majesty of nature. The boat ride Maid of the Mist took us even closer, offering us a spectacular view that will forever ingrained in my memory. I felt I was in the Divine abode Vaikundam!!
The Corning Museum left us spellbound. From delicate glass sculptures to intricate stained glass windows, each exhibit showcased the beauty and versatility of glass as an art form. We attended a workshop where they showed us how the exhibits were made with care and precision. Bommi and Dhrish were so thrilled as they were watching all about the artwork in a Netflix Series Blown Away. This was their dream come true moment!
To me experiencing the fall with its vibrant colours that painted the landscape in hues of red, orange and gold was truly magical! As a kindergarten teacher, I have written rhymes about the autumn season and taught them the characteristics of different seasons but never experienced autumn as in India, as the summer fades as a memory and the rainy season takes over and it extends to winter. Fall season, we feel like the windy season, where leaves fall off the trees.
Driving through the countryside, the hillsides were ablaze with fiery reds of maple trees contrasted by the golden yellows and the deep oranges. It was as if nature had taken a paintbrush and transformed the world into a masterpiece of colour.
I played with the dried leaves, took videos for my little ones (my kindergarten kids), singing autumn songs. My official photographer was Appa who took a keen interest in clicking snaps of me and video graphing the songs. I truly felt it to be a once-in-a-lifetime moment here.
I enjoyed every second of inhaling all the hues capturing through my eye’s lens, as I knew I wouldn’t get these moments back. The symphony of colours touched my heart and soul and had been a sight to behold. As we journeyed back home we carried with us not just memories of places we visited, but also a deeper appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the world around us.
Another unforgettable event was my birthday in the US, it was nothing short of magical, thanks to a week-long celebration filled with surprises and parties that left me feeling cherished and loved. Each day had a gift box of surprise, making it a birthday to remember for years to come.
A surprise party was planned by Kuttan, Rachita, Amma, Appa, and the kids calling my dance buddies with whom I danced for the Diwali celebration. I was brought down to the basement and lo! Saw all of them come out of their hideouts and they showered me with gifts, more than anything else, their presence was a gift in itself. We had dinner together, cakes, sweets, photo sessions, and had loads of fun!
A day outing to New York, METmuseum visit, and lunch out happened on day two. The lunch was at a specialty restaurant where the cook did some tricks for us.
As the week progressed, each day brought more and more surprises! On Dec 2, Bommi, Rachita, and Drish baked a yummy cake and a surprise cake cutting happened. My family had gone above and beyond to make me feel special, and their efforts were truly appreciated.
The next day they took me to a street to see the Christmas lights and the city was lit up with dazzling lights, each house had a unique way of lighting and we were awestruck! Dinner was at a Thai restaurant with exquisite delicacies.
My loved ones back home, my husband, my sons, and my elder brother all wished me. A special birthday song was sung by my Anna. He made it a point to call me often just to wish me “Happy Birthday “.
As I reflect on my birthday celebration in the US, I am filled with gratitude for the love and kindness shown to me by my friends and family.
My four months in the US with my parents and brother’s family were more than just a travel experience, they were a journey of the hearts! We discovered the joy of togetherness and the beauty of our bond, and I can write this as my cherished chapter in my life’s book. The day came when we left Livingston for India with my parents, I felt an ache of separation. I know I cannot see my Hershey baby again. Our short-lived love is going to be a fond memory. Tears trickled down my cheeks as I hugged all of them and waved goodbye. From the plane as it took off I , once again peeped through the window at the fading lights of the US.
Where the road goes, does anyone know?
The captivating sceneries, I deeply adore
The charming landscape holds my breath
I wish for a walk amidst the jungle’s depth
A Tree standing tall wearing a gown crimson-red
A canopy above, where the dreams are spread
Path unknown, Wish you were beside me here
Along the winding road, witness the vibrant cheer
Leaves red, orange, yellow, and golden brown
Welcome us to a red carpet, so beautifully worn
Each leaf falling whispers a secret, life’s wisdom
Walk light and free now, it's our divine kingdom.
Author Bio
Sowmya is a dedicated educator and Academic Head at PKD Matric Hr Sec School, specializing in creative teaching methods and Applied Psychology. With certifications as a Dyslexic trainer and Dance Movement Therapist, she focuses on fostering holistic student development. Beyond education, she explores classical dance, Mural Arts, Kathak, Mohiniyattom, and singing. Inspired by a mentor, Sowmya has authored 'My Own Scribbles' and contributes poetic works to anthologies and online magazines.
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