We’re back in business, folks.

Well, not quite.

But we’re back in Chicago.

We got back yesterday. Even though the plan was to originally come back on FRIDAY because Ankur was supposed to work on Saturday. But – last minute – someone swapped shifts with him and covered him for the weekend. So we extended our stay for two extra days!

Which was the best best best.

It’s never easy to say goodbye to family. But, I’ve noticed it’s even harder now that we’ve got Ishu. It’s such a joy to watch him spend time with everyone. And he, equally, brings THEM so much joy.

Luckily, we’ll see them again real soon to celebrate the holidays.

This past week, Ishu got his first haircut, had his first grocery-driving experience, and he got to meet his baby Maya.

It’s been a while since I cooked Thanksgiving food, but we chose really simple, easy side dishes to make and it all came together so nicely!

Ankur made the mashed potatoes and brownies. I made the cornbread, brussels, stuffing, and cheesy corn dish. Dad made the turkey. And mom made the roasted cauliflower with the most amazing chutneys I’ve ever had in my life (probs cause she added 3 cloves of garlic to their suggested ONE clove. More garlic is always better).

And one of our friends brought this salad and it was absolutely delicious and probably the best thing I ate that entire week. So I definitely need to get all the ingredients to recreate it at home soon!

Other than that, I got to spend lots of time with my sissy, loving and smushing her.

While the rest of the family watched over this little guy, loving and smushing him.

Now I’m off to get my life in order. I thought I’d get more work done over the holiday week. But, turns out, it’s much easier to procrastinate when you’ve got your family around.

Here’s hoping I have a more productive week this week!

Hope you all had a great holiday week filled with yummy food and family and friends!