Interesting dichotomy, this. That 2024 is coming to an end, and this journal of mine has sprung back to life.

After the multi-punch knockout that life dealt me in 2023, must say, 2024 was much a relief that I am super grateful for. Vidya had recovered very well, and Dad was doing ok for the most part. Things started to look up on my personal front too. I joined AMD back again for my second stint.

A few highlights from the year:

  • The total solar eclipse in April was an amazing experience. The darkness around at the peak of the eclipse, the perfect ring in the sky, yard lights coming on, pets in the neighborhood getting all confused - it was all extraordinary.
  • Our college 25 year reunion in May in SantaCruz was quite rejuvenating. Friends in California pulled a superbly organized three day event. It would have been even more amazing if we had it in our college.
  • The Satyanarayana Puja we performed in may was a very satisfying experience, for us an all our visitors as well.
  • Our trip to Sandiego was spectacular. Meeting Puru’s and Bhanu’s families is always fun, but as a bonus, we were blown away with the landscape and the ocean views. This was our first trip to Sandiego and we ended up wondering why we didn’t consider Sandiego when we were looking to move out of bay area.
  • The cruise trip to Alaska with the extended family - in July was the highlight of the year. A fun filled 7 night - 8 day trip with some spectacular views from the ocean, I loved every bit of the trip.
  • Went to India end of Sep to bring Dad along with me to stay with us. Was initially worried about how Dad would take to the long trip and the stay in Austin, but Dad actually settled in pretty well. My mind definitely is lighter - the constant thread of worry about how Dad is in India, is paused, atleast till he is with us.

We had enough challenges in the year too. But through them, I’ve only realized how blessed we are to have an amazing circle of family and friends who kept checking on us often - some timed right when we needed them the most - to survive through those tough times.

As the year ends and I reflect upon his year, I only feel grateful. For all the good times, and for all the kindness that friends and family showered on us in the not so good times.

As 2025 is about to step in, I can’t help but notice the difference in how I am looking forward to the new year this time. I definitely don’t have a combative “Bring it on” attitude. I definitely don’t want to be in the ring with life now. Don’t want to any more punches, let alone knockouts. I just hope the new year is kind on Vidya, me and our dear ones.

Looking forward!

- Me.

p.s: Ages since I’ve used ‘Me.’ as my signoff. Nostalgic!