Ten years ago when I came to the U.S. maa packed me a pot, a pan, a pressure cooker and spices for my adopted home. My roommate Esther, marvelled and chuckled at the stuff that came out of the two elephant- size suitcases.
Today, as I take Ahan for his first visit home I am carrying a pot, spices and a food processor along with clothes, teething biscuits, puffs, Tylenol and diaper rash creams in two elephant-sized suitcases. I am excited and anxious about my son meeting his extended family, also a tad sad about leaving Iku here. While there, we will attend a cousin's wedding, another's engagement, but we will miss all of Ahan's friends first birthdays here. My American mom Joyce suggested I pay the extra fee and return earlier if I get too homesick.
Our flight leaves in less than 12 hours. I hope I crammed enough toys, books and energy to entertain Ahan for the 14.5 hour trek to the other hemisphere. I hope to frequently document our adventure for friends and our adopted families here. Keep us in your thoughts, we will miss you all.
