Taking a Pause

More than a few of my posts over the decade of blogging have been around the "missing hour", "not enough time", "always running around" and of course the "mysterious balance of work and home"

As we all charter through these turbulent waters of "Covid-19" which for all intensive purposes feels like a "pause on life", I sit on my couch which has become my work from home table and ponder on what this means to me.

Firstly, THANK YOU to all the professions deemed 'essential' and risking the unrelenting virus to keep us safe, pantries stocked and above all as I sit and complain on "slow internet" these people help patients every minute to go back home. Their dedication, stories and perseverance is inspirational! So THANK YOU

Secondly, touch wood, we are blessed. We have stayed self isolated, connecting with friends and family over video calls, play board games with the family, cleaning some closets, cooking a lot more and above all in the midst of this realizing what a wonderful and supportive network of friends, family and co-workers I have. 

Work has been busy but no commute has helped the productivity, more check-in calls with teams and definitely getting to know the co-workers and their families since invariably we have some much needed background levity with the group. 

We are all staying paused and positive. Its been an experience! We stocked up on groceries some out of pure fright, some out of peer pressure and some out of "what if". A friend reminded me I love being around people and this must be weird for me. In a lot of ways it has been and in some ways, its been a breath of fresh air also. I am connecting more to myself also in the process also. Something that in my now not so recent Pitt trip I was chided for! It's also been more hair oil days, PJ days, home made face masks, reading, zoom virtual meet ups, video calls and above all just being "chilled". 

Kids have been AMAZING. My gosh, I cant say that enough. Luckily their spring break coincided with this self isolation order, so they have sort of gone with the flow. Of course they miss their friends, there are occasional outbursts of "what now" but they have built puzzles, learned cross stitch, caught up on their worksheets, learning new "computer" skills and picking up chores as much as possible! Our cousins universities shut down abruptly and the two of them are over adding fun to the stay-at-home party. They are such amazing influences on the kids. Above all the 6 of us are definitely making most of this. Coming  week "e-school" begins and we will have to establish "new schedules" again!

Life is "Paused" and we continue to keep it "Positive". I miss my massage place, my eyebrow place, my lazy evening with friends, the 'normal' schedule, the endless chatter with friends, the dinners, the normalcy of life. But I HONESTLY am making the most of the newly filled peace and quiet, the LAUGHTER and relaxed smiles of those around me!

How is your "Pause" been?

Food & Loosing in family game night does bring me Joy!

I had predicted that what brings me joy will be food related!

And it was.

A regular Monday night, I came home, the kids were away with Sumit for some errands. I had the home to myself! (Insert Grin Cheek to Cheek)

After changing into my 'home uniform aka PJ's ', I started Rafi station on Alexa and got into the rhythm of the music and cooking dinner. Visualize this, music is on at a higher than normal volume and there is clanking and chopping and beautiful aroma's emanating from the kitchen. There was rhythm in the house, not just with the music even with the food. By the kids came home, dinner was served!

They all changed, laid out the dinner table and we sat down for a family dinner. The relaxing atmosphere whilst I was cooking made me ambitious and I was happy to make a favorite item for everyone: Bhindi for the little lady, Lauki for me, Green Daal-palak for hubby and paratha for Miss Chatterbox. And of course topped with Raw onions and chilli's!

We enjoyed our dinner together, chatted about the day, complained a little, high fived a little and played a game called "Don’t say No or any negative like not, don’t etc etc" My gosh, was it hard! I lost miserably, even simple statements like "Lets not waste food" has a negative, an alternative way would be "Lets clear up our plates" We giggled, we chuckled, they tricked me into saying 'no' way more times than I would have (I think).

Of course the evening ended with the mundane chores like clean up time, homework time and other regular evening to do's

But as I sit and type this, those 2.5 hours that Monday evening " Brought me complete and utter joy"!

Now think about what those moments were when you were just in the moment and really be 'Joyful'. Be thankful for them!

Culinary Expansion

So who knew this round of myfitnesspal and hubby's crazy low carb diet will become a culinary expansion for the family! A dear friend of mine who is also on the crazy low carb diet messaged me to say "I was waiting for you to start to get creative with food" Nice, I like that compliment!

To support hubby's diet and stick to my adherence to the balanced "MyFitnessPals" intake, I have trying to think beyond the stir fry's and the mix vegetable soups!

Here is where the experimentation has resulted in so far

1. Zucchini Boats: Loaded with vegetables and topped with cheese and home made sauce
2. Lettuce Taco Wraps: Instead of beans, a concoction of vegetable stir fly, but having the taco shell as the lettuce: So Lettuce, layered with guacamole, then vegetables, topped with red, green salsa and always topped with more Jalapeno's

3. Modified Vietnamese Pho: And instead of the noodles, using julienned crisp vegetables and then all the fun toppings to mimic a "pho"

4. For Soups: Carrot, tomato, ginger soup. I am telling you dearies, as weird as this sound it was one of the best soups for the winter I have made so far!

5. Beet Salad: Ok this is not the adventurer one, but is my friends tried and tested recipe: Beets tossed with onion, cucumber, ginger, chilli and guacamole as the salad dressing

Here I what I want to experiment with and am perplexed with if it will work

1. Vegetable cutlets/ patty and I am still at loss for a low carb binding agent, I can think of chickpea flour, but since hubby is doing no nuts/ grains this is also out.
2. Vegetable lasagna with Zucchini sheets instead of the pasta sheets! Sounds interesting to me and may work
3. Spinach or Broccoli soup: It really sounds boring to me but I have been told its crazy healthy

What other ideas do you have for this culinary expansion?

On a progress point: Well honestly with weekend travels, milestone parties and general life, every weekend our plan goes out for a toss. But I have been honest enough to track in the tool even if I was 3 times my calorie intake for the day! Giving me a good continuous day streak! Hubby has been also going back every Monday to his healthier food choices and eating all green vegetables as needed.

Can we both improve: Hell yes! Are we both doing okay: Yes! and Is there directional progress: Maybe!

What brings me joy!

Year after year, my resolution every year is keep the calendar as open as possible and just go with the flow. And then the weeks start rolling and kids events, our events and general planning nature kicks in and calendar starts filling up. And here goes the first resolution out the window!

But then there are some times, when we consciously keep the weekends free for "just in case trips" especially the long weekends. This time around, the strategy worked. Except I missed a dear friends birthday and I need to celebrate with her! We could make a short trip on the long weekend and really reminisce with our friends, get amazing parenting tid-bits from a couple I think have gotten it figured out this parenting thing. And of course we called friends who were en route the road trip to see if we could pop in to say Hi! It worked out beautifully for this short trip!

Whilst in Pitt a cozy afternoon, Our friend had volunteered to take the kids to D&B, till this point I am not sure if it was for him or for the kids. But thank him for that since his wife, Sumit and me spend a wonderful afternoon admiring the Warhol Museum and then just sitting in a coffee shop for over 2 hours! (Sans Kids!) Of course Sumit found this amazing board game made in 1970's and that provided the right fodder to just truly "be in the moment"

There was no farce, no judgement, no pretenses, just the three of us bonding over this game and enjoying ourselves immensely! We had no clue how the time flew. During a conversation we asked a friend just hitting her milestone birthday. What's important to her to 2020? She being a highly self aware individual said "Do more of this(referring to the afternoon in the coffee shop), simple things but things that bring me more Joy" and as we continued the conversations over dinner with the rest of the family what she said resonated in my mind!! "Do things that bring more Joy"

Do I know what those things are? Definitely Not yet! But I will learn from her and Sumit's wisdom and may be do things and figure it out along the way.  If I could predict, a lot of them will be around food! But I am excited to learn over the course of 2020 and start a new tag "Bring me Joy".

And before you think we had an epiphany moment over that coffee, no, we made enough jokes over the 'Mary Kondo' philosophical viewpoint as well!

So you think about it: What brings you joy?

I failed and still won (I Think)

A long time ago I had decided I WILL NEVER DIET again. I have nightmares from my college days and been through that "body hating or shaming phase". I am definitely NOT proud of that. My grown up and more mature mantra for over the last decade has been: NO Diet. NO focus on weight loss but the focus should be on eating healthier, getting fit and overall upping the energy levels. It's made me happier!

As a mother of two young, highly impressionable kids this seems to be working well.  My husband and I "try not to" talk about weight but feeling healthy. We "try not to" talk about being fat/short/stubby etc. But more around feeling confident about yourself and taking care of yourself.

And mind you- WE ARE NOT THE FITTEST/ HEALTHIEST or even close in the vicinity of "Fit Person". But still, I very strongly believe in Being confident of your body the way it is, being aware of your food choices and above all enjoying food since it's a very important part of your gatherings, your family time. For me, it is the way to a happier self.

Having said all that, I have gone way off the path of getting fit or even being fit! All good, but just crazy busy with work, family visiting, kids and wonderful "work life balance" which was thrown out the window. Yes I know, the lamest excuse of them all: Life is busy and being fit was prioritized lower, way lower. But oh well, that's what happened.

Recently, over one of our fun filled dinner's, a girlfriend mentioned her diet plan which has worked for her the effects showed beautifully on her: In Short, No Carb, no Sugar, and just vegetables and fruits with protein's. I was so far away from 'my fit self' I said, I will try this diet breaking my decade old promise to myself.

After recovering from the flu, I went right in and Failed Miserably on Day 3!

It was too hard for me to be on that diet, my carb craving kicked in and my crankiness was insane. I kept thinking of food! And above all I just felt guilty on not practicing what I preach "Focus on healthy eating and not Weight Loss"

So after failing miserably at this, here is where I am: I am glad over that fun dinner, my friend told me about this no Sugar, No Carb  diet. Since two things happened.

One, I realized how far I had digressed from healthy eating and fitness overall.

Two, I am chatting with my friends , exchanging fun recipes and above all BITCHING ABOUT IT. Since Getting Fit' is hard!

My previous journey of "Getting Fit" had been the most successful ever, I was eating everything (Thanks to MyFitnessPal in keeping me honest), I was working out (Thanks to wonderful workout buddy) and most importantly I was giving the kids a run for their money in the family soccer days (Thanks to the kids vs adult games and our competitive selves)

Here is where I am:  My friends and hubby are continuing the original diet plan "no sugar, no carb, no white food etc etc". They continue to support me in my 'modified' version and I continue to support the three of them for their journey!

Isnt that what Getting Fit is all about: Getting the support, encouragement and making a move in the right direction.

Food Frenzy and Fun!

This is a story of when the excitement of making a "side dish/ a dip" decided the entire main course menu.

Miss V is currently on a rotation class at her school for Home Economics. A part of her curriculum was focused on fun recipes. She has been excitedly sharing this with us.  So on a nice Saturday Morning, as we chat what to make for lunch.?She chimes in, "I want to make Hummus" Hmm, so we changed the menu and being the(awesome) supportive parents decided to make a Mediterranean Meal instead!

What a feat.

I have made falafel before and I did want to try the Air Fryer! For hummus however I leaned in on Miss V. She looks up the recipe, on a cold snowy morning we head to the stores, get what we need and ta-da!!!

Our platter was quiet significant

4 types of Hummus

1. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

2. Roasted Serrano Pepper Hummus

3. Original Hummus

4. Olive Hummus

Falafel: Pan baked and also made using Air Fryer

Pita

Salad

Yogurt Dip

A picture just to make you salivate a bit! And yes, it was delish!!!

Cooking with Chatter Box and Little Lady  is always fun. But of course, She lost her temper more than a few times since "I was not following instructions", I was on the edge a few times since "The kitchen looked like a war zone".

In the middle we called truce and decided to experiment! And hence the 4 different types of hummus!

The recipe should come from her, so I will have a guest post sometime soon!

But all in all, a delish meal and a wonderful experience.
The girls and I try to cook together (mainly in winters!), we have baked cakes,made crumbles, assembled onion rings, executed a "homemade restaurant" and above all we bond over food, over the mess, over the laughter and enjoy the experience. 

Open up your recipe book, have the kids bookmark what they want to eat and go for it! Just be prepared for the mess, eye rolls and lots of deliciousness coming your way!

I highly recommend it!

A Dozen Years Old!

The days is etched in my memory, a dozen years ago driving in the snow for delivering my first born. I was amazed, dazed and elated!

And now here, 12 years later as Miss V turns 12, I am still amazed, dazed and elated.

She has truly been an easy breezy baby, toddler, kid, tween and now a wonderful 12 year old!

Miss V, Happy 12th Birthday!

Considering you have found my blog and continue to read my posts, I will still be honest but this year instead of my annual letter to you, I will highlight 12 things that make you super special!

1. You are wise and mature way above your years. I can talk to you like a friend sometimes, an adviser sometimes and sometimes like a mom and interestingly you know what role I am playing!
2. You can perceive others feelings with ease. It amazes me how sometimes in a gathering, you will just look at me and smile.

3. Your face is transparent at least to me, yes a mom just knows sometimes!

4. Your emotions run high and deep. But you are guarded for the world, and read point 3, yes to me you are transparent! Though as you get older, I wish there was a mind reader that I could use from time to time.

5. You are analytical, more practical than emotional. Which again goes back to point number, you are way wiser than a 12 year old!

6. You know which buttons to press to either get what you want or annoy when you want and above all you keep testing the boundaries. It keeps me on edge, but your sense of responsibility shines even when at times when I am exasperated!

7. You are a true foodie! You will try everything and are showing increased interest in whipping up elaborate meals! I am excited for the years to come to have a foodie buddy.

8. Your friendships run really deep. You will know a  lot of people, but you stick to your core of evolving young friendships. It is truly amazing.

9. Your ability to grasp complex scenarios or concepts is outstanding. It is really fun explaining you how things work and learn new things with you. You make me want to stay "current"

10. Your passion for anything sporty is awesome. This middle school year, with all your commitments, I know it has been lesser than you'd like, but I love that you are passionate about your passion (Yes, cheesy!)

11. You are not afraid to voice your opinions. Be it a dinner party, a BBQ gathering, a Dance party. You do however take time to listen to another's point of view and then slowly will adapt!

12. You are a beautiful kid, inside out! The kindness in your eyes reflect your heart. Your smile is naughty, thoughtful and always charming.

It is no surprise that a lot of the kids (young and same age) hang out with you. You become their pied piper! You love to engage with the adults and are cool to hang out with them, immerse them in your world and be adorable. 

I do understand you are at a tricky age- too old for young kids and too young for old kids. It will be a learning experience for all of us. You do love that big sister role and yes you annoy each other and me as a result! (Eye Roll Insert!).

Happiest 12th Birthday to you!

Life is good and beautiful and it will be filled with crazy ups and downs! But remember we are always there in your corner. Be yourself and continue to evolve in this beautiful person you are becoming!

My First born, you are a dozen years old and NO, I don’t feel old (yet!)

A good Year 2019

If there are two words I can use to describe the year that went by it will be "Busy" and quite possibly "Satisfying"

2019 = Busy & Satisfying

The year started nice and easy, as always Chicago gets cold but good friends and chatty evenings make it  warm and cozy. Spring through fall, this year was a blur for me! We had family visiting from India for most of it which meant endless beach trips, shopping trips, foodie excursions and of course lots of laughter and endless laundry!

Work was equally busy to the point, I don’t remember having a single night off for 7 continuous months. (Read: Self Pity!) I remember tucking the girls in and then just logging on till the wee hours of the morning. Sumit and I were trading our long work nights so the other one could be with the kids.

But still very satisfying, since kids thoroughly enjoyed the pampering of the grand parents, I did enjoy the professional high and developed an increased gratitude for a simple life. It is a great feeling!

This year is dotted with great highlights: The girls are now finally in the same school which makes life, schedule and discussions so much easier. Touch wood, they both are thriving. The older one planned a Birthday Surprise for me which was completely out of the blue and really well thought of. It still makes me smile, my 11 year old coordinating and executing along with Sumit. And of course, how can i miss: Miss V got her phone (flip phone, much to her angst! But a phone none the less)

The girls got involved with a non-profit this year which they participated in, led and tracked the progress of the work. This was such a fulfilling experience for us a family and as we continue this into the coming years, the life's lessons will be unparalleled.

We continue our travels and adventures. A few weeks in summer across Europe. 8 countries travelled, traversed and ending at a friends wedding were brilliant. We managed a few quick weekend getaways to Lake Syracuse and then of course a much needed Mini Re-Union trip to NYC. Of course the end of the year is marked by 2 weeks uninterrupted time  with my family while enjoying everything Dubai!

Travelling as a family comes naturally to us. The kiddos are such amazing explorers and adventure seekers. Next year, I would like to get more national parks and some fun hikes under our belt!

As the years go by, I get more and more relaxed about my friendships, more secure in some relationships and definitely I am continuously working to reduce the FOMO. As a family, we met some wonderful people this year whom we look forward to get to know better. Friendships have deepened, which in my definition is showing up with a 10 min warning in PJ's and just chilling! Knowingly or Unknowingly I have not been able to keep up with some people and have realized "That's okay.  Life is busy and with kids, work, BAU and just simple silly things, I feel content." 

2019 was a Good Year. I am glad to hit the new decade with renewed energy, more smiles and above all more peace within myself. My belief of "If I am happy people around me will be happier" continues to deepen. I am grateful for a wonderful year and I look forward to the New Year and the New Decade!
And of course more jumping shots!

Hope you rung in your new decade with smiles and surrounded by family and friends and endless hugs and silliness!

Wishing you all a Very Happy New Year