American home logs .. Party with Patti (Grandmother).

"When nothing seems to be going well, call your Grandmother”


So goes an old Italian proverb. In my daughter’s life, she was juggling too many things - a change of job, a relocation, a move to a new city, and resumption of physical workspace. As an immediate solace to still her mind, she called her grandmother (Patti) and hosted her! The USA is my second home. My family stays and is spread from coast to coast in the USA. Thanks to Arvind's long tenure with the airline industry, we are never short of tickets to travel. It was time to visit my daughter Shruthi yet again. What made the visit memorable was I was traveling with my mother.

Welcome to Patti 

My mother is 82 years old and is full of life, energy, and enthusiasm that can be infectious. She has always been a quiet lady who worked tirelessly in the house without complaints. I have rarely heard her whine or express a desire for anything materialistic. Her solace was always cooking, music, and keeping a neat home.

Ice cream treats

Shruthi, my elder child, is her first grandchild, precious to her in every aspect. There is always a quiet understanding and indulgence between my mother and her grandchildren. Patti chiding and correcting the children is always taken in a lighter spirit. 

This year Shruthi wanted to host her grandmother in Philly. My mother did not hesitate. She readily agreed although the trip from coast to coast was six-plus hours.

My mother was excited at the prospect of visiting a new city. She packed her beautiful silk sarees, had a neck pillow for her journey, and with her medicines, she was ready for her adventure.

My Strength at all times 

Vikrant and Shruthi were at the airport to receive us, and within no time, we were at their warm home having Poha and South Indian filter coffee along with my mother's fav Cinnamon Raisin toast. Every morning without fail, Shruthi would toast a slice of bread and spread liberal butter for her grandma.

One for the camera 

The two weeks flew by in Shruthis house. Shruthi indulged her grandmother with love and care that melted me. Despite her busy schedule, she would accompany her for daily walks. Holding her Patti's frail hands to cross the roads, taking her to nearby parks, and showing the city's landmarks were heartwarming. I did occasionally feel that I lacked the patience which my daughter has.

They stride together

Knowing her grandmother's fondness for the kitchen, Shruthi took her to exclusive kitchenware shops and IKEA. Together they inspected the wares and discussed the merits of each item on display. I was a silent bystander.

Kitchen Kapers 

Looking at a new city with her curious bright eyes, the outdoor patio seatings perked Patti's interest. Shruthi insisted her Patti should accompany us to one of the pop-up beer gardens near her house. Ordering a lemonade and fries for her grandmother, Shruthi enthralled her with stories of her fav memories of her childhood days.

One of the many beautiful days 

Evenings were filled with games like 36 questions and Antrakshi of old Hindi songs. It was interesting to see my mother describe the scene of the songs while grappling with the lyrics of the songs.

I wondered at my mother's keen sense of observation and interest in everything around her. Her ability to adapt to new surroundings, mingle with the young, and not turn up her nose are qualities I wish to inherit from her. 

Would you believe.. They are watching fashion shows!

It was two weeks of fantastic memories at Shruthis house. A house filled with warmth and love that transmitted quickly to all of us. Before we knew it was time for us to return to SFO. My mother returned to SFO with happiness, a basket full of memories, and took over the reins of my sister's house. A superwoman that she is.

Philly skylines 

A big warm kudos to Vikrant for cheerfully enjoying our presence in his house.