Sweet Homecoming

We are back in Los Angeles. Mona, Aanish and Ayaana have been away for nearly two and a half years and it was an exciting homecoming for all of us. Ayaana was giddy with excitement for a few days prior to our arrival and I could sense the excitement in Aanish. We knew we were in Los Angeles when we were greeted by an immigration officer of Indian descent!

It was exciting for all of us to be back together in our home. I have been traveling to LA several times during the past couple of years. I have lived out of a suitcase during these visits and the place never felt like home. Having everybody together, changed all of that. Of course, with Mona's intense focus on getting the house "operational" in a couple of days caused me to work harder than I have ever worked in my life. We spent a couple of days cleaning the place, unpacking, making minor repairs, shopping for groceries and essentials, getting the car fixed etc. But it was all well worth it! We were back in business within 3 days.

It has been a lot of fun reconnecting with family and friends since our arrival. We did not realize how much we missed everybody until we started seeing everybody again. All the children have grown up and it was exciting to catch up with everyone. Most of Aanish's friends are now taller than their respective dads and I believe one of them has started shaving. All the fifteen and sixteen year olds are now talking about college prospects, preparing for their SATs etc.

Food has always played an important role in our family and we came with a list of must-haves. We miss good Mexican food in Bangalore and have already been to several Mexican restaurants. You can't help it but love Armenian food if you live in Glendale and that has been checked off. Aanish and Ayaana are getting their fill of bagels, croissants, muffins, pies etc. We still have a way to go and hopefully we will get to everything on our list in the next few weeks.

We have a packed social calendar ahead of us and are looking forward to seeing all our friends - which has been the highlight of our homecoming.