Summer Vacations: Sunlight, Wind and Tracks

By Dr. Mamatha Suthar

Excitement stirred the night before,

wide-eyed, I couldn’t sleep, I swore.

Thoughts flew fast, they’d never stay,

“how soon will I reach my home away?”

Grandma waiting with a loving smile,

packing my bags, I felt worthwhile.

Henna on my hands, a cheerful art,

a smile so big, it warmed my heart.

Morning came, the moment near,

to catch the train, my joy sincere.

A window seat, my heaven on tracks,

the wind danced freely through my bangs and back.

Trees and mountains whizzed in sight,

dark tunnels vanished into night.

For hours it felt, the world was mine,

a little girl, in a scene divine.

Then came the call, so sweet, so bold,

“amul doodh, tandaa tandaa” sold.

Vada pav, its smell so near,

every craving met with cheer.

Full and happy, I climbed up high,

upper berth, to let time fly.

Gentle rocking, like mom’s embrace,

sleep arrived, soft and full of grace.

Evening broke, the train did slow,

a station wide, lights all aglow.

Food stalls calling, savory and sweet,

a journey of joy, no one could beat.

By Dr. Mamatha Suthar