As February draws to a close , I realise I have a lot to be grateful for .

Milestone birthday

This month has always been special for me because it is my birthday month . And this year was special because I turned 60. Now in today’s day and age 60 is the new 40 so it is no big deal but somehow something seems different . Many of my friends who had active careers are thinking of retiring and those of us who did ‘nothing’ are changing gears and still doing nothing at a slower pace.

But this birthday was special because Anna Shetty actually took it upon herself to organise a surprise party. So secret was this party that I actually felt my birthday would go unsung and I indulged in a bout of extreme self pity. This finally led her to divulge her plan . But I was thrilled to have so many people make a fuss over me and am grateful for that.

My birthday was more than just the chocolate cake – it was a quiet celebration of a milestone with my near and dear ones. I am grateful that I could enjoy their company.

Travel

While I enjoy seeing the world, I’m queasy when it comes to long flights . And with the strange weather patterns these days , I was apprehensive about my journey to New Jersey . Luckily the weather held and I could enjoy the 7 movies that I watched during the flight .

While the plane was flying into Newark, with only a minute to touchdown, all I could see was a white nothingness and my heart literally froze . Where was the terminal? Was it hiding behind haze? Smog ? Snow? Luckily it wasn’t any of them and I was super excited to have little Ms Papaya come running like a bolt of pink sweetness to welcome me with her heart shaped balloons. What a blessing it is to have grandchildren at both ends – one to bid you a teary farewell and the other to welcome you with love .

In this cold weather it’s wonderful to meet warm, loving people and I am grateful for the company of friends who’ve opened up their homes and their hearts .

But February like the end of winter is a mix of good and sad experiences . Illness has reared its ugly head back in my home in Mumbai. I worry about those left behind but am grateful that they have each other and can manage without me. This gives me the opportunity to be there for Ms Papaya.

For many of my readers today is already the First of March but for me , the last few hours of February are still ticking by.

I hope March has more pleasant memories to look forward to .

Linking up with #Gratitude Circle hosted by Vidya Sury

And also linking with Shirley Corder .