I thank everyone for their countless blessings, powerful love, and healing energy..... and of course, where would I be without Nintendo's Wii! I am doing far better, feeling far healthier and more energetic than before. All in all, notwithstanding all the possibilities and risks of my treatment, things are looking great. And although I do know this person, and may never meet him, I cannot be anything but grateful and appreciative of his generosity and large-heartedness in sharing his healthy stem-cells with me. It resolves the ever present doubt that strangers can care for one another and makes me humble enough to know that I live well at the sacrifice of others.
The world can just as quickly become familiar and intimate as it can become distant and obscure. The past few days have been more than heart-wrenching only because the stories and images real or imagined of what is happening in Haiti are viscerally torturous to hear and think about. We have a close friend and brother, Herns, who is there right now working with others searching for survivors and helping people emerge from this tragedy. He says that state resources are absent but people are working tirelessly to do what little they can.
A few days into the new year I feel a breeze of compassion in the air. Yet, I don't know if its discernible enough today.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
From the Desk of Sushma Sheth....
From the Cambridge Kitchen Table:
It is minutes after midnight and activity at 101 Trowbridge has settled into a low hum...the warming toil of heaters and the playful trickle of raindrops on the roof. Anyone who walks into this home of Rahul & Palak feels compelled to stay. Each corner is an inviting nook. Each room reverberates from the laughter and delight of the evening before. This house breathes love.
What a fitting place for our brother to focus on his rejuvenation. And what a blessed place for us to commune, dine live & laugh as we walk this journey with him.
In the last week a number of loving hands and cheerful faces have filled this home. Last Saturday, Haren Mama (in from Pune, India) and Keyur (cuz from NYC) made the journey to Boston. Haren Mama's quick wit and constant laughs are the best kind of healing love for Alpen. Thankfully, Haren Mama returned safely to India only a few days later and could report to Bhabi (our grandmother), Jyoti Mami, Mahendra Mama, Ila Mami, Nilay Bhai & Dhruvi Bhabhi in Pune how well Alpen & the family are doing.
Later a delegation of the Chicago family appeared on the scene--hands full of quick fix desi khana, board games and puzzles. Many of our bellies have delighted from fanciful flavors of Kailas Mami's cooking--and she pulled out all stops in creating healthy, germ free & finger licking meals for Alpen & all. Bipin Mama came chock full of stories and interesting political and economic debates---enjoying the company of Alpen, Rahul & friends that come home during their time here. When Puja wasn't playing hard to get with Harvard(!) she was getting Alpen hooked on a very dangerous habit....puzzle making! She brought home a 1000 piece puzzle that kept Alpen & Vivek up many many nights during the course of the week. Needless to say, these industrious (and slightly obsessed) men conquered the task. See below:
one of the mad scientists
I arrived to Boston on Nov 20th and in my few eventful days here, this is what has transpired:
Alpen is doing very well. Sometimes he needs to preserve his energy and sleep, but his appetite is increasing and he is taking up more tasks and projects during the course of the day. He is spending the day reading, watching programs, and listening, playing and singing music. He also peands a lot of his day hearing from each of you, catching up on what is going on in your lives and gaining strength from your love and attention.
1) Alpen was visited by an old friend visiting from abroad. Ashraf Casseim is traveling the US, speaking in various cities about his work for poor people's human rights in South Africa. He insisted on coming to see Alpen and, as we all know, felt so welcomed by Palak & the crew that he felt compelled to stay, talk and be together right up until his flight out of Boston.
Alpen's Dear Friend Ashraf all the way from South Africa
2) Dear friends in Providence, RI Srilakshmi & Nitin Mitta (acclaimed tabla player in the US and India) lent a pair of tablas to Alpen. They heard that Alpen likes to play and were so kind to help ease Alpen's longing for the tabla by sharing theirs.
3) Our loving Mami's (aunts) in India (Ila & Jyoti) have been seeking the blessings of our Jain temples as well as Sai Baba to protect and bless our family. We are grateful that their travel & commutes to these sacred spaces were completed safely and we know we are enriched and fortunate for the good vibrations they are sending our way.
4) Cousins Chintan and Shilpa came by with vegan, homemade, melt in your mouth yellow cake brownies with chocolate fudge icing. They were specially prepared so that Alpen could enjoy them! Seriously guys, how do you do it? We are waiting for the "Chintan & Shilpa Sweet Treats Show" on the Food Network! We know it is coming!
5) Jessica conspired with Amtrak to steal Mom away to Jersey City for a couple of days. Mom, as you can imagine, has been tirelessly devoted to keep Alpen & this house fed, healthy & happy. We are happy that Sir Rohan (our family's youngest fearless toddler) wants to check on her and make sure she is holding up OK.
6) The Shah/Sakhuja Sanitorium is in Full Effect! For those of you who have not been here already, there is a fool-proof operation for keeping Alpen germ and disease free including masks for visitors, strict food preparation guidelines, and careful attention to our hands and mouths. If you have questions before coming to visit, feel free to get in touch.
7) Last night, myself, Alpen, Palak, Rahul enjoyed and Italian/Gujrati fusion dinner with Ravi Uncle & Rohini Aunty (Rahul's parents), Vivek & Aarti including a dessert after-party featuring carrot cake, ice cream sandwiches, and Chintan & Shilpa's left over cupcakes. The eating is in anticipation of the upcoming Thanksgiving/Thankstaking holidays where we hope to cook, feast, and laugh even more!
Food, fun and laughs are what fill Alpen's heart and replenish his reserves for the next day and the next phase of this journey.
Although we do not believe in thanking our family--I have deep appreciation and admiration for each of you. By chance, some of us are related by blood. But it is a much higher power that we are *all* in Alpen's life, and that he is in ours. I give thanks for those unnamed forces for bringin (and KEEPING) us together.
Wishing everyone safe travels and good times in the upcoming holidays. We have much to be thankful for and much to share.
Love from the Cambridge Kitchen Table,
Sushma
It is minutes after midnight and activity at 101 Trowbridge has settled into a low hum...the warming toil of heaters and the playful trickle of raindrops on the roof. Anyone who walks into this home of Rahul & Palak feels compelled to stay. Each corner is an inviting nook. Each room reverberates from the laughter and delight of the evening before. This house breathes love.
What a fitting place for our brother to focus on his rejuvenation. And what a blessed place for us to commune, dine live & laugh as we walk this journey with him.
In the last week a number of loving hands and cheerful faces have filled this home. Last Saturday, Haren Mama (in from Pune, India) and Keyur (cuz from NYC) made the journey to Boston. Haren Mama's quick wit and constant laughs are the best kind of healing love for Alpen. Thankfully, Haren Mama returned safely to India only a few days later and could report to Bhabi (our grandmother), Jyoti Mami, Mahendra Mama, Ila Mami, Nilay Bhai & Dhruvi Bhabhi in Pune how well Alpen & the family are doing.
Later a delegation of the Chicago family appeared on the scene--hands full of quick fix desi khana, board games and puzzles. Many of our bellies have delighted from fanciful flavors of Kailas Mami's cooking--and she pulled out all stops in creating healthy, germ free & finger licking meals for Alpen & all. Bipin Mama came chock full of stories and interesting political and economic debates---enjoying the company of Alpen, Rahul & friends that come home during their time here. When Puja wasn't playing hard to get with Harvard(!) she was getting Alpen hooked on a very dangerous habit....puzzle making! She brought home a 1000 piece puzzle that kept Alpen & Vivek up many many nights during the course of the week. Needless to say, these industrious (and slightly obsessed) men conquered the task. See below:
puzzles are puzzling!
the finished product
one of the mad scientists
I arrived to Boston on Nov 20th and in my few eventful days here, this is what has transpired:
Alpen is doing very well. Sometimes he needs to preserve his energy and sleep, but his appetite is increasing and he is taking up more tasks and projects during the course of the day. He is spending the day reading, watching programs, and listening, playing and singing music. He also peands a lot of his day hearing from each of you, catching up on what is going on in your lives and gaining strength from your love and attention.
1) Alpen was visited by an old friend visiting from abroad. Ashraf Casseim is traveling the US, speaking in various cities about his work for poor people's human rights in South Africa. He insisted on coming to see Alpen and, as we all know, felt so welcomed by Palak & the crew that he felt compelled to stay, talk and be together right up until his flight out of Boston.
Alpen's Dear Friend Ashraf all the way from South Africa
2) Dear friends in Providence, RI Srilakshmi & Nitin Mitta (acclaimed tabla player in the US and India) lent a pair of tablas to Alpen. They heard that Alpen likes to play and were so kind to help ease Alpen's longing for the tabla by sharing theirs.
3) Our loving Mami's (aunts) in India (Ila & Jyoti) have been seeking the blessings of our Jain temples as well as Sai Baba to protect and bless our family. We are grateful that their travel & commutes to these sacred spaces were completed safely and we know we are enriched and fortunate for the good vibrations they are sending our way.
4) Cousins Chintan and Shilpa came by with vegan, homemade, melt in your mouth yellow cake brownies with chocolate fudge icing. They were specially prepared so that Alpen could enjoy them! Seriously guys, how do you do it? We are waiting for the "Chintan & Shilpa Sweet Treats Show" on the Food Network! We know it is coming!
5) Jessica conspired with Amtrak to steal Mom away to Jersey City for a couple of days. Mom, as you can imagine, has been tirelessly devoted to keep Alpen & this house fed, healthy & happy. We are happy that Sir Rohan (our family's youngest fearless toddler) wants to check on her and make sure she is holding up OK.
6) The Shah/Sakhuja Sanitorium is in Full Effect! For those of you who have not been here already, there is a fool-proof operation for keeping Alpen germ and disease free including masks for visitors, strict food preparation guidelines, and careful attention to our hands and mouths. If you have questions before coming to visit, feel free to get in touch.
7) Last night, myself, Alpen, Palak, Rahul enjoyed and Italian/Gujrati fusion dinner with Ravi Uncle & Rohini Aunty (Rahul's parents), Vivek & Aarti including a dessert after-party featuring carrot cake, ice cream sandwiches, and Chintan & Shilpa's left over cupcakes. The eating is in anticipation of the upcoming Thanksgiving/Thankstaking holidays where we hope to cook, feast, and laugh even more!
Food, fun and laughs are what fill Alpen's heart and replenish his reserves for the next day and the next phase of this journey.
Although we do not believe in thanking our family--I have deep appreciation and admiration for each of you. By chance, some of us are related by blood. But it is a much higher power that we are *all* in Alpen's life, and that he is in ours. I give thanks for those unnamed forces for bringin (and KEEPING) us together.
Wishing everyone safe travels and good times in the upcoming holidays. We have much to be thankful for and much to share.
Love from the Cambridge Kitchen Table,
Sushma
Monday, November 16, 2009
Video Messages for Alpen from the Hollon Family in Texas!
Many of you have met Alpen's close friend Ryan from college. Here are some absolutely lovely videos from Ryan and his family...enjoy!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Alpen's Out! The Transplant was a Success!
Hey Everyone:
Great news! Alpen's transplant went very well and proceeded without any glitches or challenges. After a few days of chemo, a day of much-needed rest, the donor's and (now Alpen's) cells were inserted in the wee hours of Friday night/Saturday morning. After a quick day of monitoring, Alpen was released from the hospital on Sunday and is resting and recovering at Palak & Rahul's house.
While Alpen is a little tired, he is in great spirits and looking forward to getting some fresh air and playing his tablas. As Alpen himself reported by text message to many of you the morning after his transplant: "Woke up refreshed. I feel good about the days ahead and am happy with what I have now. Thank you for keeping me on track and keeping track of me."
So with the grace of God and with your continued love and support, Alpen enters the recovery phase of this treatment.
Thanks to Niru Aunty and Harsha Aunty for faithfully sitting by Alpen's side every single day in the hospital and for showering him with love and the most powerful of blessings: a mother's wish to protect her child. Thanks also to Palak & Rahul and Vivek who depsite their insanely busy schedules and their 13-hour workdays, were always around to lift Alpen's spirits and keep him upbeat while he was cooped up in the hospital.
Alpen-ites---thanks also to each of you for the outpouring of love and support and positive vibrations over the last week. We were certainly re-energized and uplifted by the scores of e-mails, phone calls, and prayers that we received.
While we have much to celebrate today, let us remember that the road ahead requires each of us to stay positive, hopeful, dedicated, and determined! Alpen needs your continued support as his body adjusts to his new cells and the new cells go to work fighting cancer.
So this is what I of each of you: please send e-mails, pictures, poems, videos, etc. of support for Alpen. Feel free to be creative--to make him laugh, to make him feel silly, to inspire him! To start us off, a few special people in Miami wanted to send Alpen some video messages....check them out!
From Suresh Uncle (pre-transplant--sorry for the late posting!)
From Cindy, Tony & Joseph - friends of Alpen
Also, the Miami Crew also had a pani puri/bhel celebration feast in honor of Alpen getting out of the hospital. Thanks to Dad, Suresh Uncle, Baa, Mukesh Uncle & Daksha Aunty, Murthy Uncle & Myetraie Aunty (forgive my bad spelling), Antim, Aarambh, Rashmi for the hearty celebration last night. Here are some pictures...enjoy!
Nayan Uncle hard a work peeling a pomegranate!
I'm demonstrating my surprise that he is getting his hands dirty!
Um. Yeah.
Thanks for all the love Alpenites.
We hear you loud and clear and are sending it right back at you.
Great news! Alpen's transplant went very well and proceeded without any glitches or challenges. After a few days of chemo, a day of much-needed rest, the donor's and (now Alpen's) cells were inserted in the wee hours of Friday night/Saturday morning. After a quick day of monitoring, Alpen was released from the hospital on Sunday and is resting and recovering at Palak & Rahul's house.
While Alpen is a little tired, he is in great spirits and looking forward to getting some fresh air and playing his tablas. As Alpen himself reported by text message to many of you the morning after his transplant: "Woke up refreshed. I feel good about the days ahead and am happy with what I have now. Thank you for keeping me on track and keeping track of me."
So with the grace of God and with your continued love and support, Alpen enters the recovery phase of this treatment.
Thanks to Niru Aunty and Harsha Aunty for faithfully sitting by Alpen's side every single day in the hospital and for showering him with love and the most powerful of blessings: a mother's wish to protect her child. Thanks also to Palak & Rahul and Vivek who depsite their insanely busy schedules and their 13-hour workdays, were always around to lift Alpen's spirits and keep him upbeat while he was cooped up in the hospital.
Alpen-ites---thanks also to each of you for the outpouring of love and support and positive vibrations over the last week. We were certainly re-energized and uplifted by the scores of e-mails, phone calls, and prayers that we received.
While we have much to celebrate today, let us remember that the road ahead requires each of us to stay positive, hopeful, dedicated, and determined! Alpen needs your continued support as his body adjusts to his new cells and the new cells go to work fighting cancer.
So this is what I of each of you: please send e-mails, pictures, poems, videos, etc. of support for Alpen. Feel free to be creative--to make him laugh, to make him feel silly, to inspire him! To start us off, a few special people in Miami wanted to send Alpen some video messages....check them out!
From Suresh Uncle (pre-transplant--sorry for the late posting!)
From Cindy, Tony & Joseph - friends of Alpen
Also, the Miami Crew also had a pani puri/bhel celebration feast in honor of Alpen getting out of the hospital. Thanks to Dad, Suresh Uncle, Baa, Mukesh Uncle & Daksha Aunty, Murthy Uncle & Myetraie Aunty (forgive my bad spelling), Antim, Aarambh, Rashmi for the hearty celebration last night. Here are some pictures...enjoy!
Yum! Check out the spread!
Check out the smile on Uncle!
MuKaka (the photographer) & Daksha Aunty
MuKaka (the photographer) & Daksha Aunty
Nayan Uncle & the kids!
Nayan Uncle hard a work peeling a pomegranate!
I'm demonstrating my surprise that he is getting his hands dirty!
Um. Yeah.
Thanks for all the love Alpenites.
We hear you loud and clear and are sending it right back at you.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Day 2 in Hospital
Alpen-ites:
A quick update: After a fun-filled few days enjoying the sights, sounds and culinary treats of Boston Alpen was admitted to the hospital at 9pm on Saturday, October 31st to begin his bone-marrow transplant.
Thanks to the Boston crew--Palak, Rahul, Mom, Niru Aunty, Jessica & Rohan, Vivek, Michelle, Aarti & Rohit for making sure Alpen's first few days in Boston were lovely and for sending him off to the hospital with love.
Alpen reports that his room in ward 6D is roughly the same size as his room last time and that the nurse are just as nice. Check out the picture below of him enjoying hospital "cuisine" which turns out is actually pretty decent when it comes to french fries & pizza.
Treatment wise, Alpen is currently undergoing chemo which should continue through Wednesday. He reports that the chemo is "not that bad" and has been staying busy by watching The Office, stretching, and of course listening to lots of music.
IMPORTANT: For those of you that plan to visit Alpen at any point during his treatment and recovery---it is imperative that you get a flu vaccination before coming into contact with him.
As you know, Alpen's immune system will be comprimised throughout this process and we all must take as many precuations as neccesary to ensure he is not infected with illnesses that his body cannot defend against.
Finally, a brief summary of the road ahead:
11/1 - 11/4 - Chemo
11/5 - Rest
11/6 - Stem Cell Transplant (Day 0)
11/7 - 11/17 - Immunosupressants (Day 1, 3, 4, 6, 7 and 11)
11/19 - DFCI WBC Count Check (expect initial increase of WBC count in bloodstream)
12/1 - 12/4 - Chimerism test (quantifies ratio of donor blood cell count to my original cell count in blood stream aka "engraftment")
Complimentary care can begin from Late November/Early December. Exercise is encouraged, and the doctor encourages outdoor activity including walking, running, biking, and skiing. From December onwards, there will be 2 weekly visits to DFCI for the first 3 months. Thereafter, clinic visits will taper to once every two week and eventually to once a month till the sixth month. Close monitoring will continue up to one year from Day 0, but frequency is negotiable depending on schedule preferences.
More from me later. Feel free to email/Skype Alpen--he will respond as he is available and up to it.
A quick update: After a fun-filled few days enjoying the sights, sounds and culinary treats of Boston Alpen was admitted to the hospital at 9pm on Saturday, October 31st to begin his bone-marrow transplant.
Thanks to the Boston crew--Palak, Rahul, Mom, Niru Aunty, Jessica & Rohan, Vivek, Michelle, Aarti & Rohit for making sure Alpen's first few days in Boston were lovely and for sending him off to the hospital with love.
Alpen reports that his room in ward 6D is roughly the same size as his room last time and that the nurse are just as nice. Check out the picture below of him enjoying hospital "cuisine" which turns out is actually pretty decent when it comes to french fries & pizza.
Treatment wise, Alpen is currently undergoing chemo which should continue through Wednesday. He reports that the chemo is "not that bad" and has been staying busy by watching The Office, stretching, and of course listening to lots of music.
IMPORTANT: For those of you that plan to visit Alpen at any point during his treatment and recovery---it is imperative that you get a flu vaccination before coming into contact with him.
As you know, Alpen's immune system will be comprimised throughout this process and we all must take as many precuations as neccesary to ensure he is not infected with illnesses that his body cannot defend against.
Finally, a brief summary of the road ahead:
11/1 - 11/4 - Chemo
11/5 - Rest
11/6 - Stem Cell Transplant (Day 0)
11/7 - 11/17 - Immunosupressants (Day 1, 3, 4, 6, 7 and 11)
11/19 - DFCI WBC Count Check (expect initial increase of WBC count in bloodstream)
12/1 - 12/4 - Chimerism test (quantifies ratio of donor blood cell count to my original cell count in blood stream aka "engraftment")
Complimentary care can begin from Late November/Early December. Exercise is encouraged, and the doctor encourages outdoor activity including walking, running, biking, and skiing. From December onwards, there will be 2 weekly visits to DFCI for the first 3 months. Thereafter, clinic visits will taper to once every two week and eventually to once a month till the sixth month. Close monitoring will continue up to one year from Day 0, but frequency is negotiable depending on schedule preferences.
More from me later. Feel free to email/Skype Alpen--he will respond as he is available and up to it.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Setting Intentions....
Alpen-ites. Tomorrow it begins! Yes, tomorrow, Alpen will be admitted to the hospital to begin the inpatient portion of his bone-marrow transplant.
As such, Alpen-ites, I ask each of you to spend a little time tonight gathering your thoughts, prayers, intentions, and wishes that this bone-marrow transplant will heal, protect, and ultimately free Alpen from disease.
Today, rather than focus on the possible risks, uncomfortable side effects, or frustrating restrictions that come with this treatment---let us instead focus on the possibility, blessings, and opportunity that lay within this treatment.
Today, let us feel deep gratitude for the kind and generous stranger that traveled across continents to donate their marrow to Alpen.
Today, lets us revel in our good fortune that Alpen being treated at the best hospital with the best doctors---with our family's most trusted and brilliant doctors close by.
Today, let us count our blessings that unlike thousands of others in this country, Alpen has health insurance and that finances have never decided whether he has access to the best and most advanced treatments.
Finally, today, let our hearts expand with joy and our mindseye linger on the possibility of a cure within this treatment.
Now this is not to say that we should place any unnecessary expectations on this treatment. Though we most certainly will hope for the best, we must be sure to maintain a certain agility, openness, and grace for whatever terrain lies ahead.
However, today, we set forth our intention and determination that this treatment will begin auspicously without obstacle and will yield the highest benefit possible to Alpen.
Onward! To a cancer-free existence!
As such, Alpen-ites, I ask each of you to spend a little time tonight gathering your thoughts, prayers, intentions, and wishes that this bone-marrow transplant will heal, protect, and ultimately free Alpen from disease.
Today, rather than focus on the possible risks, uncomfortable side effects, or frustrating restrictions that come with this treatment---let us instead focus on the possibility, blessings, and opportunity that lay within this treatment.
Today, let us feel deep gratitude for the kind and generous stranger that traveled across continents to donate their marrow to Alpen.
Today, lets us revel in our good fortune that Alpen being treated at the best hospital with the best doctors---with our family's most trusted and brilliant doctors close by.
Today, let us count our blessings that unlike thousands of others in this country, Alpen has health insurance and that finances have never decided whether he has access to the best and most advanced treatments.
Finally, today, let our hearts expand with joy and our mindseye linger on the possibility of a cure within this treatment.
Now this is not to say that we should place any unnecessary expectations on this treatment. Though we most certainly will hope for the best, we must be sure to maintain a certain agility, openness, and grace for whatever terrain lies ahead.
However, today, we set forth our intention and determination that this treatment will begin auspicously without obstacle and will yield the highest benefit possible to Alpen.
Onward! To a cancer-free existence!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Alpen Has Left the Building!!
Alpen-ites:
Yes. It is true. Alpen has left the building! Suresh Uncle and I just got back from the airport. Whew! It was a hectic morning to say the least--complete with a trip back to the house for a forgotten coat, luggage/trunk puzzles, short-term parking hassles, nail-bittingly stressful bag weigh-in---all while we were running late! BUT we made it. And after a special airport breakfast (and love) delivery from Nayan & Harsha....Niru Aunty & Alpen are safely on their way to Boston!
Boston Team....you are up!
Now let me just tell you Boston, I'm not trying to brag, but Miami has sent Alpen off with his heart, pockets, socks, luggage, ears--everything---filled to the brim with love. For the last 10 days, Alpen has been literally been surrounded, engulfed, smothered by support, love and laughter. There have been planned and improptu lunches, dinners, concerts, hang-outs sessions, beach excursions, car rides, and all around good times.
Alpen has flown kites, talked politics, changed tires at midnight, packed (and re-packed) his bags, Bahama-Breezed, both appreciated/critiqued live music (classic Alpen), gone swimming on the coldest day of the year, enjoyed homemade arepas, treated Suresh Uncle to lunch at his favorite Italian restaurant, made suprise visits to the DDA, stayed up till the wee hours of the morning, and of course laughed laughed laughed so heartily with many of you.
Big ups to Mazen, Monique, Hearns & Louise & the kids, Gi & Marcia, Nas/Xandino, Tony, Joseph, Emerson & Carolina, Subhash & Nilu, and of course Rashmi, Murthy Uncle, Maytri Aunty, Nayan, Harsha, Baa, and Suresh Uncle for fortifying Alpen's spirit and soul with so much love and protection!
And so Day 1 of this journey begins.
With each other's support we are all ready to face what lies ahead with determination, optimism and joy.
One last thing: as you know, Suresh Uncle will be working very long hours for the next few months at the Indo-American Store. Please remember to pick up the phone every now and then to give Uncle some extra love & check on him (305-382-7570). Or if you are local, stop by sometime and see him---bring him some tea, or a snack, set up Skype for him---just let him know that we are here with him!
Alpen's first doctor appointment is tomorrow. More from me after that.
Much love Alpen-ites. Much love.
Yes. It is true. Alpen has left the building! Suresh Uncle and I just got back from the airport. Whew! It was a hectic morning to say the least--complete with a trip back to the house for a forgotten coat, luggage/trunk puzzles, short-term parking hassles, nail-bittingly stressful bag weigh-in---all while we were running late! BUT we made it. And after a special airport breakfast (and love) delivery from Nayan & Harsha....Niru Aunty & Alpen are safely on their way to Boston!
Boston Team....you are up!
Now let me just tell you Boston, I'm not trying to brag, but Miami has sent Alpen off with his heart, pockets, socks, luggage, ears--everything---filled to the brim with love. For the last 10 days, Alpen has been literally been surrounded, engulfed, smothered by support, love and laughter. There have been planned and improptu lunches, dinners, concerts, hang-outs sessions, beach excursions, car rides, and all around good times.
Alpen has flown kites, talked politics, changed tires at midnight, packed (and re-packed) his bags, Bahama-Breezed, both appreciated/critiqued live music (classic Alpen), gone swimming on the coldest day of the year, enjoyed homemade arepas, treated Suresh Uncle to lunch at his favorite Italian restaurant, made suprise visits to the DDA, stayed up till the wee hours of the morning, and of course laughed laughed laughed so heartily with many of you.
Big ups to Mazen, Monique, Hearns & Louise & the kids, Gi & Marcia, Nas/Xandino, Tony, Joseph, Emerson & Carolina, Subhash & Nilu, and of course Rashmi, Murthy Uncle, Maytri Aunty, Nayan, Harsha, Baa, and Suresh Uncle for fortifying Alpen's spirit and soul with so much love and protection!
And so Day 1 of this journey begins.
With each other's support we are all ready to face what lies ahead with determination, optimism and joy.
One last thing: as you know, Suresh Uncle will be working very long hours for the next few months at the Indo-American Store. Please remember to pick up the phone every now and then to give Uncle some extra love & check on him (305-382-7570). Or if you are local, stop by sometime and see him---bring him some tea, or a snack, set up Skype for him---just let him know that we are here with him!
Alpen's first doctor appointment is tomorrow. More from me after that.
Much love Alpen-ites. Much love.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Were BAAACK!!
Alpenites!!
We are back in session. As most of you know Alpen is heading off to Boston on October 25th for a Bone Marrow Transplant. So the time is ripe to re-ignite this blog....here are some recent pics of Alpen and the family for your viewing pleasure while you stay tuned for more posts.....
Love,
The Alpen Repor(t)
Raksha Bandan with Rashmi, Purvi & Sush
Family Pizza Night before Sush moved to Chicago
Alpen's Three Moms
We are back in session. As most of you know Alpen is heading off to Boston on October 25th for a Bone Marrow Transplant. So the time is ripe to re-ignite this blog....here are some recent pics of Alpen and the family for your viewing pleasure while you stay tuned for more posts.....
Love,
The Alpen Repor(t)
Alpen at Krupal & Mira's Wedding
Raksha Bandan with Rashmi, Purvi & Sush
Family Pizza Night before Sush moved to Chicago
Alpen's Three Moms
Suresh Uncle enjoying(?) pizza...
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Papa Got an Award!
MC: As a community service professional I know that my mission is to make the community a better place to live for all. I also know that certain people of the community are the eyes for many professionals like me who cannot function without active help and assistance from these concerned and sensitive members of our community. Our next recipient is one such member of the family who has astute observation, keen eyes and sensitive ears. He is never hesitant to stop somone who appeared distressed or down to ask "what is the problem, how can I help you," and then is able to turn the challenge over to those who appear best equipped to deal with the problem. Ladies and Gentlemen, our next honoree and unsung hero is Suresh Sheth. As I invite him to the stage, I also want to make another observation that Universal Heritage Institute deserves your applause for dicovering and recognizing community gems like Suresh. Thank you.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Finishing Painting
My mom recently finished one of her paintings. Unfortunately, this one is already taken.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Day/Night out in Miami
We begin at the succulents section of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. It was the annual Chocolate Festival, where they explain how chocolate is made, feed it to you in various forms, and sell cacao trees as well as the rare Oncidium "Sharry Baby" Chocolate Orchid. As you can see, we met up with Marcia and her two sons, Nasir and Ramesh Sandino (Sushma's Godson). The whole crew also included: Purvi, Jospeh, Tony, Rashmi, and special guests Krupal and Mira from Durham. The evening before we took a trip to Miami Beach and took pictures of Downtown Miami from the Bridge to Key Biscayne.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
january flowers
These just bloomed in our backyard. I guess worrying and taking care of plants pays off after a while.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Recipes from this past week that you may have missed
Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins3 c. cornbread mix
2 1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. salad oil
3 beaten eggs
1 lg. onion, grated
1 c. canned cream style corn
1 1/2 c. Colby cheese,
grated1/2 c. jalapeno peppers
Combine all ingredients; mix well. Pour into a greased 13 x 9 inch pan. Bake at 400 degrees for about 45 minutes, or longer. This is a very moist bread. Serve with any soup. Serves 6 to 8.
Veg. Vietnamese Pho
for the broth ...
1 onion, quartered
2 shallots halved
8 garlic cloves halved
2" piece of ginger, coarsely sliced
2 whole star anise
1 cinnimon stick
4 cloves
8 cups clear veg. stock
3 tablespoons soy sauce
salt
To make the broth, heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion, shallots, garlic, ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves and dry-roast or "char", stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to char. Add the stock and soy sauce and bring to a boil over high heat. Turn the heat down to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes. Strain into a clean pot and discard the solids. Taste the broth and add salt if necessary. Keep warm over low heat.
for the soup ...1 pound rice noodles
8 ounces seitan or fried tofu, sliced
6 scallions, thinly sliced (both green and white parts)
2 carrots -julienned
1-1/2 cups bean sprouts
handful of basil/cilantro leaves, whole 1 lime, cut into wedges
hoisin sauce
sriracha chili paste
While the broth is simmering, prepare the rice noodles. Place the noodles in a large bowl. Pour boiling water over the noodles to cover and soak for 20 minutes.
When you are ready to assemble the soup, add the seitan or tofu, carrots to the warm broth and allow to heat through. Drain the soaked rice noodles and divide evenly among 4 to 6 large bowls. Using a slotted spoon, scoop the seitan or tofu out of the broth and distribute among the bowls. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles. Serve the bowls of pho with the scallions, bean sprouts, herbs, lime wedges, hoisin sauce and chili sauce on a seperate platter so that everyone can season their own soup as they wish.
Makes 4 to 6 servings
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Breakfast with Rohan
My sister and I spent last week in Jersey City, NJ. We got to celebrate the holidays with our beloved nephew Rohan. Here he is eating breakfast with us and explaining his thoughts on life.
Friday, December 26, 2008
The Guest House
-
The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
- Rumi
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
A short poem for the snow flake
The snow falls. It rest with little resistence to the earth even as the powerful wind drives it from its path.
It glows in the light.
Connects earth with the sky.
It is unique but indistinguishable.
And it has little time.
Or perhaps, not enough time.
If only it had more time and less pressure from the rest of the weather.
And possibly less self-doubt, less concern for its brittle stature.
Soft and thorough, it eventually lays down all its strength and remakes the contours of the earth until the earth is no more.
No longer distant and distinguishable.
Just one wide ocean of white stillness.
The snow is falling
The snow is falling in Boston. In case anyone is jealous or curious, we have pictures of all the snow-related action as documented from the doorstep of the house.
Palak looking pretty after a hectic week of examinations. Watching along as her hubby clears the path of scary snow flakes.
A rare sighting of Super-Rahul in action taking on the snow one flake at a time with his lethal snow-fighting weapons.
Palak looking pretty after a hectic week of examinations. Watching along as her hubby clears the path of scary snow flakes.
A rare sighting of Super-Rahul in action taking on the snow one flake at a time with his lethal snow-fighting weapons.
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