Times passed by and couple of years down the line our daughter made her entry in our lives. We parents began leaning on each other for advice and support while the children grew alongside. Our daughter is now almost seventeen and my ‘little neighbor’ in his late twenties, is a newly married guy as of 19th January 2013.
Over the years, we have bonded so well that, his wedding was almost like my son’s wedding in the neighbors’ house. We were part of all the prenuptial ceremonies that began a week before the actual wedding.
The couple was engaged for eight months, so preparations were on since then. Their relatives living abroad and out of town took leave from work and their kids’ schools to witness the occasion. The wedding house and ours was closed only at night. Can you imagine the fun and camaraderie?
Being Hindus, their rituals and ceremonies were a unique experience for us. We felt a part of their family. In one of the ceremonies, a particular ritual was performed on seven especially chosen women and I was one of the privileged seven. After the ceremony, I joked with my husband that, never in my life was I ever honored as on that day. I just couldn’t get over the fact that as a part of that ritual, my feet were bathed in milk. Ah! Now I don’t feel like washing my feet with water. LOL.
I have a picture of this design on our palm. Such intricate work!
I’m looking forward to many more good years of neighborly love especially with the new daughter-in-law on the floor.
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I’ve become conscious about my ‘perfect moments’ since I came across Lori’s site lavenderluz.com in December 2012. I’m finding more perfect moments now than ever before.
Thanks Lori, for this great opportunity to share our perfect moments.
Everybody is welcome to join!
Oh! These designs are so beautiful. How long did it take to have them done?
ReplyDeleteMy daughter and I have had henna tatts done on ourselves, but nothing quite so elaborate.
Congratulations to the new bride and groom. Sounds like a fun celebration for your families.
Yes Lori, we are still reeling over the occasion viewing the photo albums, CDs and DVDs. So many memories....
ReplyDeleteBy the way, these designs are manually done with the henna paste in a plastic cone. Exactly like piping designs on a cake through a cone. This design lasts between one or two weeks.
Thanks for your wishes to the bridal couple, I have conveyed to them.
What an honor! I can imagine how happy you were. The henna artists did an amazing job, such beauty. I love that you are close to your neighbors who became like family. I am sad to say it isn't like there where I live. I have a few neighbors who are special to me, but not like you. Very lucky lady indeed. Many happy years to the happy couple.
ReplyDeleteThanks Winnie, the couple is quite tickled about the international wishes.
DeleteYes, I was indeed elated with this preferential treatment.
Here, I must admit that times are changing in India too. I can tell the difference between my childhood neighborhood and now. I suppose, with hectic & competitive lifestyles, it's bound to happen.
Let's enjoy while it lasts.