Ties that bind...

Labor Day marks the the end of summer, and with it, the end of my time with Nirmala, my nanny since I was ten months old. For a year and a half, she has massaged and bathed me, sung me to sleep, fed me khichiri and homemade meals, danced with me, watched me crawl, then walk, then run. I've learned so much from her calm, mindful care. We've grown to love her entire family: husband Ramesh (my boyfriend!) and sons, Ishan, and Yayati (the gentlest boys on the planet.) In her warm home, redolent with Nepalese spice, I'm showered with attention and kisses. We'll still visit, of course! Still, there's sadness in ending this chapter of such an intimate bond. Nirmala is my nanny no longer - but we'll forever be friends.

In thanks, we made special shirts: tie-dyed, then Xela-stamped, crafted with love. Nirmala, however far apart our journeys take us, you can put on this shirt and feel my (messy) hands reaching out in a hug. xoxox

Smoosh! lots of love poured in these prints

yes, I'm wearing a garbage bag,
you got a problem with that?

I can't believe Mama's letting me do this in the house

piggies and paint drying

feel the love?

one more cuddle with Ramesh
love my Nirmala

Peekaboo!

yep, it's a new year, fall has been falling for weeks, and finally... we're back!

Not that life in Sodenland feels remotely under control: the Bumble is in the shop. Our brand new babysitter who was starting today instead is getting IV fluids in the hospital (gracias, Tata, for the last-minute rescue!) Childcare for tomorrow? who knows?! We're winging it, stumbling along one day at a time. Somehow, we'll figure things out. Or not.

But nothing's gonna stop this blog. Stay tuned for my latest milestones and (mis)adventures, plus flash-backs and catch-ups so you won't miss a thing.

big kisses
xoxo xela