A day spent in a school with my Dad

 

No matter how old we grow, a part of us always longs to return to our childhood—to the school where we learned, the home where we grew up, and the familiar paths that shaped who we are. Our roots never leave us.

One of my Dad's wishes at 90 was to revisit Veliankode and his high school in Mookkuthala, built on five acres of land donated by my husband's Pakaravoor family to the government for just one rupee. Life has a beautiful way of coming full circle—my husband's grandfather was my Dad's teacher, and years later, his grandson married that teacher's student's daughter. What an incredible connection.

As we drove through the villages, Dad recalled walking miles to school, crossing the river by boat every day before continuing on foot. Watching those roads from the comfort of a car made me realize how much determination education demanded in those days, especially in rural India.

The moment we entered his school, his face lit up. He pointed to the walls and said, "Gandhiji came here during his dandi yatra." Looking at the playground, he smiled and remembered running on that very track during sports day. Instantly, I was transported to my own school days at Kendriya Vidyalaya Khadakwasla, Pune, where I too loved sprinting and winning trophies. Some memories truly bridge generations.

As he quietly looked around, I knew he had gone back to being that little boy again, remembering his teachers, classmates, and simpler times. One curious young boy watched us, and when I told him that my 90-year-old father had once studied there, his eyes widened with amazement.

As we drove away, I couldn't stop thinking about that little boy my Dad once was. Life may have been simple, with very little, but it was rich in resilience, dreams, and joy. Seeing him relive those precious memories was one of the greatest gifts this journey gave me.

O moon !

 

This half-smile of the moon tonight,

Feels like a soul, gently incomplete,

Yet in its silence, it softly speaks,

Whispering truths so tender, so sweet.

Cradled in the arms of the darkened sky,

A glow so pure, so calm, so far,

And still it feels so close to me,

Like a familiar, quiet star.

Just this glimpse of you is enough,

To fill my dreams, to light my way,

O moon—whole or broken in parts,

You make my world shine anyway.

Even your scars feel beautiful to me,

Even your silence sings like a song,

You may not speak, yet every night,

You tell me where I belong.

Perhaps I’m a little like you,

A little unfinished, softly undone,

And maybe in this shared incompleteness,

We become whole—just as one.

~ Dawn

Lessons We Never Learned

 

In school—

we read about wars.

Not games…

not victories…

but blood.

Loss.

Silence

after the screams.

They called it… history.

And our teacher said—

“Learn from it…

so it never happens again.”

But tell me—

If we learned…

then why

is it happening again?

India. Pakistan.

America. Iraq.

Israel. Palestine.

And now—

Russia. Ukraine.

America. Iran.

Different names…

same graves.

So where are they?

The ones who taught us?

The ones who were supposed to learn?

Why is no one—

pulling them by the collar

and saying—

THIS.

IS.

WRONG.

This is not strategy.

This is not politics.

This—

is humanity

bleeding.

Tell me…

why don’t we fight poverty instead?

Why don’t we build homes

instead of graves?

Why don’t we give people

a chance to live—

not just survive?

What have we become?

We know what’s right.

We know what’s wrong.

And still—

we watch.

Wars begin.

Lives end.

And we scroll.

Our ears?

Numb.

Our eyes?

Tired.

No explosion…

no scream…

shocks us anymore.

Are we still human?

Or are we monsters—

hiding behind comfort?

Or worse…

walking corpses?

Why does no one

hold them accountable?

Take them—

not to power,

but to truth.

Make them sit.

Make them listen.

Make them feel—

every loss they signed away.

Because maybe—just maybe—

One day…

In this broken, war-torn world…

Someone will wake up…

And choose peace.

And maybe then—

We will finally learn

the lessons

we were taught as children.

~ Dawn

With love, today and always —

 

Your smile lights every heart,

Your friendship is a beautiful art.

You bring loved ones closer in every way,

Spreading joy wherever you stay.

May your life be filled with cheer,

Blessings, laughter, year after year.

With love, today and always —

Have a truly wonderful birthday !

~ Dawn

A Birthday of Gratitude: Giving Back at Salinas Strawberry Farm

November 7th was my birthday — and like a child still at heart, I was eagerly waiting to celebrate with my family, which I did with joy and laughter. As the evening came to a close around 11 p.m., my thoughts shifted from cake and candles to something deeper — our next morning’s visit to Salinas Strawberry Farm to donate food and clothes to the hardworking farmers who bring fresh produce to our tables.

The plan was to drive early to San Jose, meet my friends, and head together to Salinas. We’ve been volunteering with Hands that Care, a local organization led by Hector — a kind, humble soul whose story itself is an inspiration. Having endured hardship in his childhood, Hector once prayed, “If I survive this, I will return to serve my community.” He kept that promise. Today, despite managing his own cleaning business and facing financial challenges, he continues to give — consistently and quietly. Listening to him speak about his daughters pursuing master’s degrees in medical fields filled me with hope. Stories like his remind us how privileged many of us truly are.

This initiative was organized through Vanitha Charity Organization, where a few of us friends collected food cans, rice, winter clothes, socks, and other essentials — simple items that can mean so much. I missed the trip last year, so this time, I was eager to be there in person.

I reached my friend Priya’s home around 7:15 a.m. in San Jose. Since the farmers wouldn’t be arriving until later, Hector suggested we start around 9:30 a.m. In the meantime, Priya made us a warm, delicious breakfast and tea. There’s something special about people like her — kind, grounded, and genuine. I instantly felt a connection. Thank you, Priya, for your hospitality, and to Vanitha’s President Manju Abraham and Chairperson Geeta George, whose leadership continues to inspire me to stay involved.

The 60-mile drive from San Jose to Salinas was long but filled with laughter and conversation. I got to know Dr. Manju from Minneapolis and Priya’s husband Sree, who drove us and helped carry heavy boxes of food and clothes. His quiet strength and helpful nature made our trip smooth and cheerful.

We met Hector at La Patisserie Bakery — and even though we had already eaten, the aroma of pastries was hard to resist. When Hector arrived, his smile said it all — full of gratitude and warmth. He had also coordinated with another group bringing donations that day.

Following him to the Foothill Estate Strawberry Farm, we began setting up tables, sorting cans of soups, beans, noodles, rice, tomato sauce, and other staples. As the farmers came during their breaks, we handed out supplies. What struck me most was their dignity. No one grabbed or rushed. They took only what they needed, often saying “Gracias” and encouraging us to give to others.

There was such quiet grace in their actions — humility in the face of hardship, patience amid long days under the sun. One woman held a donated winter jacket close to her chest, as if embracing warmth itself. In that moment, I realized: the true worth of that jacket wasn’t when I owned it, but when she did.

The day was hot, and I was grateful to Priya for packing hats for us. But looking around, I thought of the farmers — toiling in that same heat, day after day. It was humbling. As we talked more with Hector, we learned about the farmers’ living conditions — some relying on tents as makeshift homes through the winter. We made notes on what they needed most so that we can bring more useful items next time.

Life has a way of teaching us quietly. That day, I learned more about gratitude, patience, and compassion than any book could teach. On the drive back, my heart was full and heavy all at once.

We stopped for lunch, and by the time we reached back, Priya invited us for evening tea. We ended the day with laughter and reflection — a beautiful contrast to the silence of the fields earlier that morning.

As I write this, I can still see the faces of the farmers — their tired smiles, their eyes filled with both fatigue and resilience. These moments are etched in my heart.

Once in a while, we must pause and look around us — beyond our routines, beyond our comfort zones — to truly see the people who make our lives possible. Many around us are struggling: farmers, cleaners, those affected by layoffs, or anyone trying to make ends meet with quiet dignity.

This planet belongs to all of us, and basic human needs should never be a privilege. The disparity we see is not just economic — it’s a reminder of our shared responsibility.

My deepest gratitude to the Vanitha Charity donors and every volunteer who made this effort possible. Your support brought food, warmth, and smiles to those who deserve it most.

Sometimes, the best way to celebrate a birthday is not with gifts we receive, but with the joy we give. ~ Dawn

~ Dawn

A Monday to remember 🥰

It’s Monday, and I’m on summer shutdown at work this week — a rare day with nothing on my calendar. “Since you’re free, why don’t you come to my office?” Rhea suggested. And just like that, I had my plans for today. 

As I walked into her workplace, memories flooded back — the times I’d take all three of my little ones, Rahi, Rhea, and our beloved cocker spaniel Reyna, to the VMware campus for visits. How the roles have shifted.

Today, it was my daughter showing me around — giving me a tour of the Nvidia campus, the cafeteria, and sharing lunch together. A quiet moment of pride.

Before I left, I added my signature doodle on the whiteboard by her desk — a little tradition that continues.

Mondays like this? I’ll take them any day 🥰.

~ Dawn

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure !

 

What we have once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us ~ Helen Keller

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Amma (Parvathy Pakaravoor), on Oct 23rd, at the age of 74 (to be 74 on Dec 28). She was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, who touched the lives of all who knew her with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. Amma was more than just a mother-in-law; she was a true friend and confidante. She welcomed me into the family with open arms and a warm heart, always offering support and guidance. She had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel loved and valued, and her home was always open to friends and family. I will always cherish the memories of our long talks at every meet, her infectious smile, and her wise advice. She was a passionate gardener, and her organic vegetables in the garden were a testament to her love of life. Amma will be deeply missed by her children and their partners, grandchildren and all those who have met her in this life. Her memory will forever be a source of inspiration and comfort. Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find solace in knowing that she lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness.

~ Dawn

We are all different. Don’t judge, understand instead!!!

This year, right from its inception, has unfolded with a profound sense of intrigue. My surroundings are bustling with noteworthy events – tech companies initiating layoffs, a palpable reluctance among individuals to return to the office leading to protests, the ongoing Israel-Palestinian conflict, and the heart-wrenching atrocities, particularly the senseless killing of innocent children. These occurrences compel me to reflect on the state of humanity. It seems as though despite the passage of time, our species has not evolved much from the days when small nations engaged in destructive wars, questioning what fundamental changes have truly taken place.

We appear to be creatures losing touch with our dignity and humanity with each passing day. It's disheartening to note that animals, often overlooked, exhibit a kindness that we, as a society, seem to disregard. In the face of these challenges, I strongly feel that this year should be a turning point where we assertively declare 'STOP' to what needs to be halted. We must find the courage to say 'No' when we sense that enough is enough.

As we navigate through life, gaining new perspectives, we realize that our existence revolves around the people in our circle – family, friends, colleagues, and teammates. It's imperative that we express love and support to one another, sharing happiness, peace, and a compassionate ear. My personal journey in people management has reinforced the significance of personalization in business, emphasizing the need for a personal touch within the team.

I recall a valuable lesson from my childhood – my father's advice to hold onto good people rather than wealth, as money is transient, but genuine individuals endure. Embracing this wisdom, I am gratified to witness its fruition in my life.

Love for our neighbors, people, and teams forms the foundation for a harmonious existence. By embodying the qualities of empathy and understanding, we can create positive change. In my role, I find fulfillment in allowing others to lead, as true leadership lies in empowering those around us. It's a gratifying journey of learning and growth.

Let us be the advocates for the voiceless, elevating our concerns to a global understanding. If we, as humans, do not stand up for what is right, then who will? The key to overall well-being lies in spreading happiness, and as we move forward, let's make a sincere promise to be authentic and cultivate love among ourselves.

"Compassion required only one thing...To step outside ourselves long enough to embrace another."

~ Dawn

Chaos!

There are people, 

there are houses, 

buildings and chaos!

There are temples,

Mosques, Churches,

and then there is more chaos!

Wish people spoke to each other,

And not hide behind the walls

in these buildings and houses,

Not fight for the buildings.

Which they call house of God,

Yet all the drama is about that,

Peace! Let live and Let other live!!!

~ Dawn

 

Love!

 While roaming around the streets of Tel Aviv,

Noticed some arts and crafts exhibition,

The street was dazzling with creativity,

And I saw this bench with full of hearts,

Someone said, there's a man who connects the hearts,

Who would follow that?, when there is tinder and dating sites?

Well, in Tel Aviv there is a man who connects

people's heart and there are enough hearts to connect too!

Spreading love in the middle of all the chaos,

is what life is about - Love!!

~ Dawn

Rare as is true love, true friendship is rarer..!

 Today I am going to talk about friendship. How many of you talk to people once or twice at work or school/college and say I have a friend? Or how many of you have friends that you meet and greet, eat and go merry and say we are best friends ?

If you think seriously are they really your best friends? Who is your true friend? I know this is something only comes with experience because when you meet anyone and have good times, you assume you two are good friends and can hang out for life but then when you see certain wavelengths where you don't match and then you think oh, I don't think we can be together as friends. Life is so tough at times when you see that you have lot of people whom you know and who also know you but there is something missing. Sometimes, it's the experience that you get and you will you were not understood well, or you were cheated in friendship.

Many times it's those experiences that you realize you have a friend actually. I have such realization where I found a friend and I can talk anything with this friend and yet we can laugh at ourselves and be happy. 

Today, was such day where I had the chance to be with my friend. Sometimes, when you meet in a crowd you hardly get a chance to talk or should I say you only talk what everyone likes to hear.

"Things are never quiet as scary when you have got a best friend." Bill Waterson

There is a big difference in that as what you like to talk versus what everyone likes to hear from you. I agree when everyone has something or the other going in their life, no one wants to hear any more anyone else's issues. But when you meet you best friend with whom you can be open and share whatever you want to say and in this one on one meet, both of them opens their heart and share about good, bad, and ugly that's happening in their life. 

When I say good, bad, ugly, it could be about health, or about one's stress and yet how everything is under control. It's someone to have a listening ear to you and just listen and not judge you in anyway or any manner.

Friendship is not about just meeting, for the sake of meeting and taking pictures for social media, it's much more than that.

Having a talk about how things are going in life? Hows things at work? How about health of each other or family? If you're a good friend you will always be happy to listen and nothing much is needed, that is friendship! 

If you have such a friend then preserve it and make sure you're there for each other for life long.

"The language of friendship is not words but meaning." ~ Henry David Thoreau 

~ Dawn

Note: Now you can listen to the audio version of my blogs in Hindi on the UshaDawn Hindi Podcast on Google, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Check it out and new episodes uploaded every day 3 AM Pacific Standard Time

If animals spoke, humanity would cry!

 continue...

Time was like on a flight as I got busy with my studies and my sports commitments. We had helpers at home for dishes, laundry and cleaning. It was a mother and daughter who used to visit us. Sometimes, they are together or sometimes the daughter would come alone and what I heard was that she is twenty six and need to find a suitable boy for marriage. Ranju bai we used to call her though her name was Ranjana. 

In Maharashtra, Bai is like calling Madam - its called out of respect. One day Ranju bai's Mom told us there's this dog where I go for work and they really torture that dog and don't give anything to eat. I was thinking if that dog comes to your house he will live like a king. 

"If you pick up a starving dog and making him prosperous he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and a man." ~ Mark Twain

The moment we heard Dog, me and my Mom we both said please bring it we will take care. Our Bai brings this dog who is skinny with bones and a thread like tail which had some coal tar on it dried. He was smart, he just won our hearts with his twinkling eyes. Me and my brother decided to name him Tony. Those days we were fans of Tony Greig, the English Test Cricket Captain who later turned to be a Commentator.

I am known for being self-starter, so I took the charge in my hands and took Tony for a quick shower. He was scared for a shower but with my wittiness and care he made things easy for me. After a nice shower, we gave him some food, mind it those days there's no dog food or so. Tony ate whatever we ate, and I made sure that he gets whatever me and my brother eats be it a chocolate or a candy or a laddoo. Sundays when Dad used to go to the market to buy vegetables and fish or meat, he would bring for Tony as well. In the mutton market they sell you for 25 paise pieces of meat, and things that we don't eat and my Mom used to cook that in the rice with little bit of turmeric powder and its his feast on that day.

In a week's time Tony completely changed into a handsome boy. He was confident, happy and proud to be with us. I remember, one of the family when they visited our neighbor's house they started calling Tony with a different name and said this is our dog. Guess what, even before we react to that question, Tony barked and jumped on them and that was the end of that discussion.

Tony, I can say grew up with me. He was there everywhere, only when I am going to school, he knew he cannot accompany me but otherwise he will never miss any chance to be with me. I was also naughty and playful and so was Tony, many times while playing he would bite and later feel sorry for it and will put his hand on my hand as if saying I am sorry.

Tony taught me what is love? and how to be responsible. He also taught me how to be expressive whether it is love, anger or frustration he had his way. I almost felt like I have a little sibling in the house and we lived happily. Tony was like a shield to us. One day a dog bit my brother as he was picking the cricket bat, the dog got scared and in self-defense barked and tried to come and bite. Nothing much happened but since then he was Tony's biggest enemy. It would be difficult for us to control him but later when we scold he would listen with his head down. During that fight, the dog bit Tony's ear and hence he got wounded. As I was taking care of him, everyone else started giving my parents advise that the dog is wounded in the ear, it might impact its brain and he will have rabies and we all will get infected and die. 

"The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog." ~ M.K. Clinton

To all this, one even suggested to call the dog shooter next day and put down Tony. The moment I heard that, I freaked out and I was the voice for my Tony that time. I said I will take care of him and he will be fine in no time so I begged my Dad to give time until then. He agreed but he said, the dog is not going to be in the house. He will have to stay outside in the backyard in our scooter shed. It was literally like a Bollywood movie scene where I am in tears, and taking care of Tony, every day and night I will wash  the wounds with dettol (anti-septic) water and put some ointment that was from the Vet. Someone told me if you put Camphor powder it will extract all the worms in case he has one. Those days, everything was tried so that he can get cured fast and during my ten days Dashera holidays, I put all my effort and took care of him and guess what Tony was back in action except that he lost some piece of his ear but that didn't take away his charm a bit.

After that day everyone came to hug Tony and I had to remind them how they treated Tony. I think by now everyone felt it was a mistake to do such a thing and Tony became more close to me as he knew I am there for him no matter what.

As old age came in when he was thirteen, he was not well and while I was helping my Mom with chores, I was sitting with him, talking to him and asking if he is in pain. He would look at me and did say goodbye to me before closing his eyes.

That bond was something very strong in my heart with Tony that I could never forget him, his love and his every incident with me and at home. Tony was so stubborn that if it was not me to give shower then he will not let anyone else give him shower. He was such a human!

Tony's death made all of suffer a lot specially me and my Mom. We didn't eat for couple days and were sad and Dad was more worried for us so he showed his love through his anger asking us to eat and now on no dog will come in this house.

As they say time heals and now we see a Cat started coming to our house since Tony is not there to guard the territory. My Mom started giving this stray cat food since it was pregnant and I was kind of trying to avoid any closeness with anyone as I have had the taste of losing them.

The cat would come home to eat food and one day the Cat brought a baby cat with it and that one was so beautiful with dark features that I immediately took it and claimed this is mine and the Mother is Mom's. Since then we had cats - Mother and Daughter (Kalyani and Sundari respectively).

"Pets have more love and compassion in them than most humans." ~ Robert Wagner

Life was back again as here I didn't have to do much, Sundari would just come whenever she sees me or she will be on our roof lying down with her mother Kalyani. One day Sundari came home crying we didn't understand why she is so much meowing but later came to know her Mother died. It was sad but I hugged Sundari and made sure she is taken care of. 

One day we came to know that we are moving from this place to another and I had to leave Sundari as she was not our pet, and never lived with us. But she visited us before we leaving and that was it. I once came to see Sundari when I was visiting my neighbors and that time she had started to look like her mother Kalyani, the charm was gone, she looked like a matured one with a baby in her tummy. We both looked at each other from far, and said goodbye.

"Every stray deserves a chance at love, a home and a warm bed to sleep at night." ~ Penny Reid

The journey from there to my home was in deep thoughts as learning about food chain in science class was terrifying that now I see how life revolves, a small pretty kitten turned out to be a grown, matured one to be a mother and life goes on.

We moved in this new house and everything was new, the neighbors, the surroundings and I was in college  and guess what, one of my Mom's colleague visits home saying our Pomeranian dog gave babies and now we have one left - no one is taking because she is a girl. I thought of your daughter because she would love to have her. My Mom said, no we will not have it and more over her Dad will not allow to keep any dog so please take back.

It was that time when I entered the house from college, and the moment I saw this tiny puppy who looked like a snowball I took in my arms and started playing and that was it. I said Mom. please let's keep her and I gave the name Jimmy.

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." ~ Anatole France

My Mom didn't want to be part of this hence she said I don't know let your Dad decide. When Dad came home, I requested and pleaded to keep her but Dad wasn't ready and I being his daughter was not ready to give up either. Finally, the guys left but Jimmy was home. Dad wouldn't look at her or pet her because he said we don't want any more dogs.

Jimmy was smart, she would slowly go to my Dad and play with him, lick him and slowly Dad couldn't turn his back to her and that was it, reunion of all.

Jimmy being a female dog, people didn't want her because she will give babies and as those days neutering was not a common thing and hence my parents sent me and my brother to take the dog to Vet and get her neutered. We both were going with Jimmy on a two wheeler bike. As we were in the city, I asked my brother, how good is it to take away her right from her? Just because she can't speak her mind, can we really do this? We both decided we will not be part of this sin and hence we turned back from there and came home, said the Vet was not there.

Jimmy was never neutered but we made sure she was on a leash whenever we took her out. She was a beautiful loving girl. When I left home after my marriage, I used to visit weekends and she would recognize the scooter far from home and would start jumping, wagging her tail, and Mom would tell seems she is here that's why Jimmy is happy. 

I know by that time Jimmy was my parents responsibility as I was not home as I had moved to Canada, but then this restricted them from traveling and hence they decided to give Jimmy and it was one loving family who always loved Jimmy at our place took Jimmy with them. 

"Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies." ~ Gene Hill

As far as I remember, she was a happy kid and remembered us till her last breath - no news is always good news and so we stopped checking about Jimmy as this would cause us also feel sad. I am sure she understands!

After that, I decided not to have any pets. When kids insisted I bought them fish but ended up cleaning the tank etc. But now, we have Reyna an English cocker spaniel whom we rescued when she was five and today she is eleven living a life like a queen.

"Rescue does not mean damaged .. it means they have been let down by humans."

~ Dawn

Note: Now you can listen to the audio version of my blogs in Hindi on the UshaDawn Hindi Podcast on Google, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Check it out and new episodes uploaded every day 3 AM Pacific Standard Time

Cooking is love made visible ...!

Today I am going to talk about food. I am sure we all have our favorite food and I have many favorite ones as I am a foodie and love to cook and eat and make others eat as well.

I was raised as a vegetarian but my Dad made sure we eat meat too so every Sunday he would go to the market and get fresh meat  which could be a chicken or goat or fish. But I always loved vegetarian food and hence I tried to cook those at home so that my kids also eat healthy home cooked food.

"People who love to eat are always the best people." ~ Julia Child

Last when I went to an Indian grocery store I brought few vegetables that usually you don't get in Whole Foods or other stores.

I brought Ceylon spinach or water leaf as it grows in wet area and this shrub is dark in color. This is highly rich in dietary magnesium which is beneficial for lot of things in our body. I usually make it very simple.

After plucking the leaves making sure they are clean and not eaten by worms or so wash it and cut it nice and thin. Then in a grinder add grated coconut, cumin seeds, garlic and green chilly and make a fine paste and then heat a pan with little oil where you splutter some mustard seeds, red chilly and curry leaves and as soon they splutter add the water leaf that you cleaned and chopped nice and thin along with the coconut paste that you made add everything and add turmeric powder and salt to taste. Put a lid and cover it to cook for ten minutes and then mix it overall and let it cook for five more minutes and its ready to eat.

"The people who give you their food give you their heart." ~ Cesar Chavez

The coconut taste along with garlic and green chilly it gives a different taste to it overall. Usually, people eat this as a side on their main course meal but I eat this with bread too. Its a vegan dish, those who are healthy conscious should try out this vegan dish and others too ;) .

Next time, I should talk about the pumpkin curry :D !

"Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate." ~ Aland D. Wolfelt

~ Dawn

His charm is something that keeps it all

No matter what happens in the world

His charm is something that keeps it all

The world is mourning over the virus

Carona the star of this year all around

There is only one who keeps me humble

And yes he often plays hide and seek

He visits me when am thinking of him

The world is suffering and healing too

When I am looking at you in this color

You're more romancing to me with that glow!

~ Dawn

O mangiar questa minestra o saltar questa finestra

There's no word that can express the feeling when our train reached at the shore. It's amazing how one can travel via road, rail and through water.
We reached and took the tickets for the ferry to come so we can reach our hotel in Venice.
It was happiness across as I have this childhood connection with Venice through this bollywood song from the movie The Great Gambler, where there are lyrics in Italian expresses love for his lover and very beautifully this song is composed and in my mind every minute this song was playing.

Don't they say always keep a song in heart? I was happy in my own way inside me.
Going around places, and watching every bit of it as everything has a connection... And the Venice Grand Canal was the one which took my heart, the bridge of sighs, St. Mark's square, Doges palace... If I don't share that song here then this post is incomplete.
Listen to this song and feel what's Venice is about through my eyes...

And for those who don't understand the lyrics, believe me love doesn't need a language, you will get it...!

We were guided by Andre who received us from the port and walked us to the hotel room, explained everything but we were not listening to him completely as we just got distracted with our room, the windows showing the narrow streets and the close neighborhood, all this brought happiness and we just said addio to Andre as he left.

Everyone took a shower and changed to go for a dinner. We realized it was 8 pm and some of the shops closes at 10 or 11 and so we started going around to see where we can eat. It was interesting as one wants to eat but at the same time look for more options of restaurants and time was something that was running too.
We finally decided to check in to one which was going to be closed in 30 minutes and when we checked they welcomed us. We all were really feeling very comfortable and happy at Venice. You really don't need much to be happy it's all in your mind.
After a delicious dinner we started walking around... My Moon was blooming with love and I couldn't stop gazing at him until we decided it's late, let's go to our room.
The interesting part was that these streets are like a maze, you get lost easily and what I heard from others also is that they all had experienced once getting lost in this maze.
Finally we figured out but learnt a lesson, specially me who made sure the address is well captured on Google maps and thanks to my phone that helped all the time to reach places no matter what.

Next day we planned for the gandola ride and we had decided we will take in the evening when the sun is calmer and still up. During the day we went around the palace, and it was so hot that we didn't feel any guilt in having gelatos every now and then.
And when in the evening we sat on the boat which you might have seen in the song above, exactly those moments were lived and mesmerized!

I think no matter how many pictures we took and how many times I looked around, I always felt it's less! I also sang that movie song, because that's how much it's in my system. You only need music, and love that too if people can appreciate and enjoy in that moment. 

Sailing in the boat, the boatman gave us the tour of places and showed us the house where Marco Polo lived and how that later got converted to an auditorium... And the market place where entire town comes to purchase their daily groceries... I talked to him about the bollywood movie and before I could say much he said I know that movie and have watched 300 times because that's the only movie that has Venice for so long... I am sure the song shows the Venice and the boatman which he always relates to himself probably and he said he loved the jazz music... There you go another one who got connected due to music even though he doesn't understand the language... We reached the shore as we were ending our ride and with a group picture we said addio to him!

As we were walking by at the St. Mark square my 12 year old felt like giving me a rose. It's amazing how kids as they are growing what all goes into their mind which tells that they are growing and how they are coping with the changes...! It was a sweet gesture and I will remember this life long. Don't they say a boy's first lover, friend and mentor is his mother 💕! Anyway I cherished that moment and captured in my heart and camera 😊.
We had our dinner at Marco Polo restaurant, it was interesting and cozy small place and what caught my eye was that people visited from all around and they left a currency with their names on it with them which was displayed on the ceiling...

I kinda liked that gesture... With a satisfying dinner we came back to room and packed as next morning we were supposed to leave though our flight from Marco Polo airport to Frankfurt was around 7:30 pm. 

We woke up easy and had late breakfast and went to see the bridges of sighs and spent little time and planned to catch the ferry to Marco Polo airport. It was an hour to reach but the ride was like a roller coaster ride with bumpy ride ..

but at the same time leaving this place was  somewhere making me a bit sad, I guess it's always a bitter sweet experience when you love a place and you're leaving because you were only a visitor here!

Senza tentazioni, senza onore!

~ Dawn