Well we started packing this weekend. Holy clothes!
I was fortunate that I was able to borrow all my traditional clothes from Hima’s family — mom, sister, grandma — I’m so thankful they are so sweet.
I recently met Hima’s extended family, and they all allowed me to borrow clothes from their closets so that I would be appropriately dressed for all the ceremonies. It started with Hima’s mom allowing me to borrow some of her clothes, and the second time I came over to pick up more (cause, you know, I needed more), Hima’s sister sent clothes up for me to try from Atlanta and Hima’s grandma let me use one that she brought with her from India.
I’ve been so lucky that Hima’s family has accepted me and allowed me to be a part of so many things already. My favorite memory? The second time I went to Garba. During one of the prayers, everyone grabbed their plates… kind of like offering plates holding candles, fruit and flowers (loosely described!). Each family member held the plate and waved it around in a certain pattern, and then passed it to the next family member. The first year I attended Navratri I was a spectator…soaking everything in, but the second year, Hima’s mom passed me the plate. I was so honored to be included in such an important family event, and from then on, always felt so at home with her family.
I’m now set with 30 pounds of clothes (did I mention I needed to pack regular clothes too?) And a ton of jewelry and makeup and shoes.
We’ve never traveled with so much stuff requiring so many suitcases. This is a far cry from when we were backpacking in Europe last year. But that’s okay… it’s going to be worth it 🙂
Four work days are standing between us and our flight!
