“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” — John Fitzgerald Kennedy

It’s been an amazing 10 days capped off with a great Thanksgiving dinner with family. Amaya experienced her first Thanksgiving with the cousins, aunts and uncles. She also got to meet new relatives and spend quality time with each.

This morning we had a cultural ceremony where we tied black strings on Amaya’s ankles, waist and wrists signifying to keep the evil spirits away. Both sides of the family joined in on the festivites and Amaya was a trooper during the entire event.

Last night was a little rough with Amaya. I think she was having the equivalent of nightmares because she didn’t sleep well on her own. She fell asleep in our arms but once we settled her into her crib, she was very restless. Some family members say that until she eats the equivalent of solid foods, she not fully pure. That being said, they say that she is remembering her past life during those simulated nightmares. I suppose that is an interesting take on it but she did feel more comfortable in our arms versus the crib.

Our family shared some insights and tips to get Amaya to sleep comfortably. We rolled up some towels and made some barriers in the crib to comfort Amaya as if still in someone’s arms. We also put a rolled towel around her head to snug her into place. That seemed to work pretty good. Fingers crossed for tonight.

Capturing Amaya’s smile on camera is so difficult. The shutter time on the iPhone takes too long before that precious smile disappears. But luckily I was able to catch a really good one yesterday. It warms my heart every time I see it.

I’m thankful for…

I’m thankful for a healthy baby.
I’m thankful for a healthy mommy.
I’m thankful for my health.
I’m thankful for my sister and family coming from Portland to visit.
I’m thankful for my niece and nephew being loving kids with big personalities.
I’m thankful for yummy Indian food.
I’m thankful for my awesome wife who is an extreme rock star and great mom.
I’m thankful for great sister-in laws for their support.
I’m thankful for my parents raising me with love, patience and understanding.
I’m thankful for parents and in-laws knowing when to step in to teach and when to let us learn how to be parents.
I’m thankful for friends who text/email randomly to check-in.
I’m thankful for the gorgeous L.A. weather.
I’m thankful for non-profits that work strategically to do good including but not limited to Kiva, Manav Sadhna and Wherever The Need.
I’m thankful for all those that do good and find themselves saying “You Are Welcome.”

Teaching Amaya on how to use the Macbook

Going over with Amaya on how to use the remote and find ESPN.

Paternal Great Grandmother

Hari Dada aka Hari Cha Cha.

Surprise visit by Darshana; sister-in-law/Amaya's aunt.

Smiley Face.

cracking a smirk.

This is my favorite smile pic.

Both of my girls taking in some Z's.

More visitors. Sarina Aunty.

Just chillin in grandpa's arms.

Just chillin in grandpa's arms.