I just realized that that is not the case anymore.
The other day I drove OVER 700 miles in less than 24 hours to meet my new godchild.
Meet Benicio Niranjan.
I began my journey after 9 in the morning last saturday.
I began my journey after 9 in the morning last saturday.
I was just settling into the "flow" of my drive, deep in thought--when it occurred to me to switch on my navigational system.
The GPS voice practically screeched at me: "You fool! you are going the wrong way!!!!"
Instead of heading WEST,
I was heading NORTH towards my parents' home. (now home to just mom)
Apparently my father, God rest his soul, was sending me a message.
He knows I have been experiencing major approach avoidance about Rochester, NY.
Mom, if you are reading this, I will visit soon.
But I digress.
After the near 40 minute detour, I was finally on my way to Benicio.
It took me over 8 hours to get there because I kept stopping for coffee
and I took a few phone calls to manage the life I left behind.
Julie, having just been released from the hospital after a DRUG FREE delivery--was plowing along as if nothing happened.
I told her she was like a cave woman, resilient and tough. I aim to be like this woman.
Lax, made my favorite curry dish.
He would not serve me Lentils this time as he remembered that during my last visit, I got diarrhea.
I fed and held Benicio but the true bonding during my brief stay there was with 5 yr old Jamie.
The boys parents, Julie and Lax Vaidya--are just such proud parents.
They lead simple, happy and uncomplicated lives as they just take each day as it comes.
Before I left, Lax packed up some curry for me to take home.
He asked me, "Chesca, will you be okay to eat this after your long car ride home? I do not have it packed in ice."
I said: "Please. I am from Manila--I have a strong stomach."
Lax nodded, he said: "I can eat things after three days!"
I said: "Okay--I can only do TWO days. Then I die of salmonella."
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I woke up today realizing that I don't hate driving anymore.
And that although you might think it was really nice of me to make such a long drive to spend some time with the Vaidyas, that was not me being nice.
I got so much from this trip.
Plus, the curry was not bad either.