More Autumn celebrations

I'm afraid I've fallen a bit behind in keeping the blog updated.  We've had some great celebrations this Fall and had the chance to take a trip to Thailand during the kids' Fall break.

Mid-October was the Deepavali celebration.....or some say Diwali or Dipavali.  Nonetheless, its a worldwide celebration in Indian (Hindu) culture that marks the New Year based on the Indian Lunar calendar.  Diwali means Festival of Lights and like many celebrations, this holiday is celebrated by gathering with friends, giving gifts and eating delicious treats.

Parrish and Sabrina celebrated at school with some festival treats and dress up.  In the pictures above Sabrina is admiring her kid-size bangles and perhaps you can see the bindi on her forehead.  The second is our friend Ruchita with her adorable and energetic daughter, Navya, giving her a kiss.

The bindi is a decoration item of any shape or color and no longer signifies age, marital status, religion or ethnic affilication .  I was able to join Sabrina's class this day and help them make laddu (sweet coconut balls) and try my talents in applying henna on the small hands of very still 2 year olds.  *grin*