My brother-in-law and family had to travel out of Bengaluru for a few weeks. That would have meant my mother-in-law, who stays with them, would be alone at home. She asked us if it was okay for us to move in with her so that she would have company. We said yes, and moved in on Aug 19.
It's about 15 km from our home. But being here is a wholly different feeling altogether. Different locality; different surroundings; different routes for my morning/evening walks; different work-from-home settings ... It's not necessary to travel far away for a change!
Coincidentally, last week, my sister-in-law and family traveled down to Bengaluru from Bhopal on some work. They too joined us for a few days. It's been quite a few years since we met them. So, it was a good family time.
How much ever video calls have succeeded in "reducing the distance" between people staying miles apart, nothing like being in the same room and talking to one another.
After the short sojourn, we are returning home tomorrow.
Change of location is always a good relief. Remember doctors always tell a patient to go on vacation. Change of location will rejuvenate them. I am glad you had a good family reunion.
ReplyDeleteHi Rajan - Well, I haven't heard about doctors asking patients to go on vacation. But I know many wellness experts nowadays encourage employees to take a break from work and go on leave, so that they don't suffer any ill effects of office-related stress.
DeleteYeah, there is something different about just being in the same room. On the phone, you need to fill the empty air. Together, you can just be in the silences.
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteWell, first, let me say how good it is to see a post - I quite literally said aloud to myself last night "Wonder how Pradeep is doing?"!!!
Now you have told us and, it seems, you are doing well. That is a joy to read. Change as good as a rest, it is said. And your new banner is also rather fine! YAM xx
Hi Yamini - Thank you so much for your kind thoughts :-)
DeleteEven though I was having a good family time, I could feel that I was missing the small, but often comforting, world of my blog pals. Glad to be back.
I've been thinking of you, too, and so glad you enjoyed some quality family time. My own blogging has been derailed but in good ways. Best wishes to you and yours.
DeleteHi Pradeep - yes I too was wondering ... but now you've told us. It sounds as though it was a valuable break and you were able to have a special family time with both your mother and your sister-in-law's family at the same time ...
ReplyDeleteYes - Yam confirms your banner ... me too - love the shadows in it ... enjoy being home! Cheers Hilary
Hi Pradeep - how lovely to be able to spend some quality time with the extended family....and to have such a lovely change of scenery. I think covid has made us appreciate the little things so much more these days. Returning home will be another change and refreshing after being away.
ReplyDeleteHi Leanne - It was a much-needed break. You are right, these days we are so much longing for that change that relaxes and energizes us. Thanks.
DeleteYa, in-person meetings has its own charm. Let's hope for better times ahead.
ReplyDeleteDestination Infinity
Hi Rajesh - True, these days we have learned to appreciate many things that we had taken for granted. Thanks.
DeleteYou're so right Pradeep. Nothing beats the meeting-in- person feeling.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I met his sister's family (first family meet after 2 years) in July this year and it felt so good. So, I understand how you must've felt.
Love your blog's new look.
The photo is so apt for "Time and Tide".
Safe travels.
Hi Arti - Thank you.
DeleteYou are absolutely correct, Pradeep, there is no substitute for personal contact. I miss things as simple as body language, or a sidelong wink intended for my eyes only. The internet is wonderful but it's no fun hugging a lap top!
ReplyDeleteIt's been a tough time all around – all around the world. Good for you for helping with care. I was a hospive volunteer before COVID.
ReplyDeleteI think or I know it would be harder to go though the pandemic with out all this fancy techie stuff.
ReplyDeleteCoffee is on and stay safe
Glad you had a change and some good times with family. PS: I'm feeling foolish because for some reason I thought you lived in Pune!
ReplyDelete