So we are about to fly across the Atlantic Ocean, through 12 time zones, halfway across the world to Bangladesh. This is a bittersweet trip. We were originally supposed to visit in winter, with my parents. My dad was as excited as a kid going to a circus. He'd appointed himself tourguide for my kids' first trip to the first country I had ever known. Instead, my cowboy husband and I are leading the trip.
Part of me keeps thinking of all the people and things that won't be there: my dad, my maternal grandmother (the one who told me my first djinn stories), my favorite teacher, the house I grew up in. But another part of me is determined to do my best as substitute tour guide. So here are some things I'm hoping will get done:
1. Visit with my dad's extended family, many of whom will be meeting the kids for the first time.
2. Tasting my way through all my dad's favorite foods. He loved grocery shopping and I hope to visit one or two of the markets while I'm there.
3. Visiting my old school and haunts with the kids in tow. Show them the trees I grew up with.
4. Visit my mom's village where we spent many wonderful summer holidays.
5. Go on some crazy, bone-jolting, fun rickshaw rides.
And on a personal note, I hope to be taking many pictures, collecting stories, and learning to see Bangadesh through my kids' point of view.
I'm going to help my kids know the country like their grandfather used to, I'm going to make Bengali memories for my family. I'm going to embrace this trip as a joyous adventure and know that my dad is along for the ride in spirit.
I don't know when I'll be able to post again...so may your summer too be fun, safe & full of happy adventures!
Bangladesh Biman, the official airlines of Bangladesh
How exciting! I'm sure it will feel different visiting Bangaldesh without your father, but hopefully you'll find many ways to connect to the legacy he left behind. Safe travels!
ReplyDelete