Dear Younger Me, You knew on some level that life was magical. Mystical. Enchanting. Unbearably new. You were all full of possibilities and dreams, always too headstrong to follow on cue. That was always a part of your charm, that absolute certainty that all life…

Dear Anshu, 2001, Life is a box full of Surprises Every moment is a Present You gotto open it with a Smile Embrace even the Fragile Walk another Mile Define your own Style And Never settle in being just Fine

Okay, we have to talk Every few years you try to save yourself time or effort by taking shortcuts You know what I’m talking about— don’t even lie Let me remind you: That time at the Graham Hill playground when your bicycle chain fell off?…

Have to make the note simple; Can’t make too many mistakes. She already embarrassed Her clothes ain’t clean. Maybe I should have argued harder To get the landlord to let us in, But I’m so tired, her brother and sister So hungry, I just didn’t…

Neighbor’s mischief monster is at it again Big wet nose on my lap Muddy paws on my toes Must move soon or i’ll be trapped I cannot bear the thought His breath on my face; so smelly and hot The drool on my skin His…

Faithful companion, loyal friend, Warm weight at the foot of the bed. Clattering claws across the floor, Rushing to greeting at the door. Eager for daily exercise, Snatching the ball out of the sky Bounding full-tilt across the park, Playing outside ’til after dark. Proud to…

Marry me for my bad jokes. The ones that our dad would probably make. And that sometimes you know… you find them funny. Or make them to yourself. Marry me for the way we watch sad movies together. As I cringe and cry with you…

Your laughter always sparkles. You make every place, no matter how humble, feel like the most welcoming and comforting home. How charm just naturally flows out of you; mesmerizing entire rooms. Creating magical gardens on simple balconies with wildflowers, roses, jasmine, and fragrant culinary herbs….