Build-up

I just spoke to my aunt whose son's wedding I will be attending next week. I have been really excited about the prospect, but I know when I get there, it is going to be a little emotional as well, because I am going to see relatives I haven't seen in thirty years or more. Like Ma's cousins on both her father's and mother's side, and their families. I said to Aunty, "Itni dair hui hai sab ko dekhe ko, meiN tau sab ko pehchaan bhi nahiN sakooNgi!" To which Aunty replied, "Koi baat nahiN, hum bata deNge."

This is just exciting beyond words! Being in Pakistan for a wedding would have equaled or topped that, but we are all scattered around the globe now. It makes me really happy, but it makes me a little sad too, cause I wish Ma could see all her cousins.

Maamoo and Aunty have been in Islamabad for a while now. They returned to the US for their eldest son's wedding, and then they will be returning to Isloo. I tried to get her to tell me their impressions of what is happening in the country, but beyond "bohat gaRbaR hai", which is no news, I did not get anything. Perhaps I will learn more when I see them, but I doubt it. And I do not say that to be critical of them. They are in the capital for a particular project, for a particular duration of time. And I seriously doubt that even though politics may impact this project, they will get too involved in the politics of what is happening for obvious and understandable reasons.

I have not packed yet, and the only person not frantic or concerned about this is me! My friendly cab driver and I were laughing about our tendency towards procrastination. I said, "Yeah, like five minutes before I have to leave for the airport or the bus depot, I'll throw everything together!" LOL

In order not to stress my mother out any further though, I obviously cannot do this. Damn! Tomorrow night, on the road - again!