Charlotte, North Carolina

The July 4^th, (American Independence Day) brought with it a long weekend, when a sudden plan made us hit the road to head towards Charlotte, North Carolina.

The city is the second largest financial center following New York and home to the Nascar Hall of Fame, and before you think the paragraphs coming forth is a chronicle on the tourist spots we visited, I shall have you informed that no it isn’t, but it is surely rated as my best escapade in the USA.

This trip brought us to meet a wonderful couple, Smitha & Sanjeev, with their little bundle of joy, Ayush. A warm smile from them instantly had us bonded with them. After an year and a half I met a person who mirrored me. It was a fun filled weekend as we enjoyed lunch at the Blue Taj, where Smithchechi and I gulped more than a many paani puris (the best ones in USA so far). Mural painting was something that always had me gawked and appreciative of and there was nothing more I can ask when she offered to teach me the nuances of Mural painting. Beautiful artwork by Smithchechi adorned their home. Opps! Did I miss little Ayush’s artwork on the walls that brought life to their home. Evenings were dedicated to swimming, where Smithchech’s pep talk had me enter the 3.5ft deep pool and with my hubby’s patience and encouragement I waded my way into the pool and now atleast know how to paddle my feet in water. Sunday dinner was a treat by the men; Ranju and Sanjuettan cooked a simple but truly a yummy dinner.  The dinner was thoroughly enjoyed by us all when we sat together and watched a Malayalam movie. Little Ayush’s mischief and restlessness had us all on our toes. His chuckles and wobbly talk(ninee noush - minnie mouse, bak car - black car, apo jush - apple juice, babush - bubbles) made sure we always had smiles on our faces, a 2 year old complete entertainment channel is all that I can call him. Watching him and Ranju play together, made it difficult to fathom who amongst the two is the youngest!

 The relaxing time we spent at their home made me reaffirm that just being practical is not what life is all about. The beauty of their relationship and the love they share helps them sail the toughest time with a smile on their face. Touchwood! Touchwod!

After an year and half in the USA, I was on a verge to accept that being practical and independent is the essence of survival here, until I met this adorable couple who reaffirmed my belief in the principles I abided all these years, of simplicity, empathy and understanding.  

Thus, this traveller is not returning empty handed, even if I did not study the building blocks of the Mint Museum of Art or the NASCAR Hall of Fame, I am glad of the rendezvous with the most adorable couple.

A big thank you to my hubby, who kept his overload, pending office work aside just to see that smile gleam on my face and decided to head for this small vacation. Dear, hope you had a good day at work, today?