THE GRAND CANYON TRIP -TRIP OF THE LIFE TIME

THE GRAND CANYON TRIP 


God picked up his brush and began to paint a beautiful picture!
The depth of the scene was beyond the reach of my eye!
Can't see the depth where it ends, but could feel the thrill and beauty!
Upon the painting , the eyes would refuse to look away!




ALL ABOARD! 

It was Christmas Holidays. One of the joy of life is visiting the places we love. Four families including us started from San Antonio. We took two rental cars and packed everything we need for the travel. We were ready to travel 2000 miles away to THE GRAND CANYON. Sanjive and Shrinika were excited and so do I. We started our journey on last  Wednesday at 5.00 pm. We reached a motel at 1.30 am and stayed there that night. In the morning at 8.30 we started our journey after finishing our breakfast. We reached Albuquerque, and visited Sandia peak. 
Holly to see the Sandia mountains covered with snow. We took the Tram , One of the world's  largest Tram. There was butterfly flying inside me , not only in my stomach , but all over my body.
Tram car climb 2.7 miles up to the steep. The view was awesome and spectacular. We reached the top of the mountain. 

                                                

          
 
 

        

PLAYING IN SNOW IS SOMETHING BOTH ADULTS AND KIDS LOVE 



Beautiful crystals of snow. We threw ourselves to the soft snow. We felt that we were in the middle of the nature. We had snow ball fights and had a great fun. We spend an hour at the peak. Our hands and legs were freezed in cold though we were wearing winter clothes.
Silvery snow silently slides down the slippery slope. Walking in snow , everything white shining like diamonds. The peak was majestic. The still and silence were secured. Dancing of the snow flakes made me feel like dancing. Houses looked like a iced cakes from far. Snow flakes gently fell like cheers of applause. It was like a white blanket on the earth.

HighHigh! High ! the summit peak !
Boundless the world to sight !
My heart still tied to the enchanted pines !
Mind was bright !
No time to think about the worries!
Gaze and Gaze , But can't see the sky!







DO YOU WANNA BUILD A SNOW MAN ! COME ON LETS GO AND PLAY 



We tried making a small snow man. We took pictures and waited for the Tram to get down.
We got down , finished our lunch  and continued our journey .We reached the next motel at 2.30 am. We started our journey in the morning 8.30 am. Everywhere we go , it was scenic beauty. Snow mountains all the way looked like a beautiful  picture. I started singing Rhymes with kids and also gave some activities to kids just to make the travel interesting. The whole travel was an exciting experience. The scenic beauties were great treat to the eyes. I was never be bored to see the nature again and again. Finally we reached the Grand Canyon.  I realized and knew the real definition of "Awe!" when I saw it. When I was in eighth standard , I remember studying a lesson on "The Grand Canyon". I was so happy that I had the opportunity to visit there. It is one of the  natural wonders of the world. It is a high desert of northern Arizona. Ravishing visual beauty, physical challenges, historic and that is the rarest of my experience. The view was spectacular.  I was really taken back by the creation of god. Everywhere Rocks and snow. 





 


DO LOOK DOWN ! THE SKY WALK



Every part of my body was freezing. We went to the home of Hualapei (the place where the ancient tribes lived) and walked for half an hour to the top of the canyon. The Canyon was huge and threatening. Sanjive made snow  balls and threw it into the Canyon. Snow balls fly in air. We couldn't find where it went. So deep it was.   Next we visited Sky walk , another thrilling experience. There was a metal walkway leads to a glass platform for the spectacular view of mountain peaks and forested valley . Sanjive enjoyed the sky walk. Shrinika was surprised , frightened at first , then she too started enjoying the sky walk. I was wonder struck by both God made and Man made miracles. Standing on the glass platform and starring at a some what terrifying 2000 foot drop was stunning. It was exhilarating and refreshing. I was totally soaked in nature. Seeing the nature itself was a great meditation. It made me really happy. 

It is only our eyes  , and no camera lens could properly  capture the unimaginable vastness of this geographic wonder. 

  The ancient tribes 

CHRISTMAS, ALMOST HERE !

 WE started our journey again. On the way , the full moon accompanied us which helped our drive by driving away the darkness. There were few stars too.  It was really interesting watching the moon while travelling. Shrinika was thrilled and was shouting "Mommy Moon Moon Moon".Sanjive started asking questions about Moon. The Moon made our travel interesting. All the way , it was snow and had a small snow storm and somehow we managed to reach the motel. That night we stayed there  and started again next morning. Next day , We went to horse shoe bend trekking. We walked through the mountains in cold. It was 0.75 miles walk. Sasi carried Shrinika all the way, In some places she also loved to walk alone. Sanju held my hands and we both walked together towards the horse shoe bend. Finally the path lead to the horse shoe bend and a river flowing in between . We took pictures standing at the edge of the canyon. It was scary and we were thrilled. As it was Christmas , Kids received small lovable gifts from their Dad.

At night gazing at stars , Full moon from the top of the mountain!

The White Christmas almost here !

A holiday filled with such a cheer !

All was  silent ! All was still !

I was around to see the thrill !

Born to feel!

A silent applause for no one to hear !

The heart always goes what the eyes always shows!

I never give up that feeling I hold!

When the silence speaks , Listen to it !

On the way , we find an Indian Restaurant to have dinner. It was crowded. We waited for 45 minutes there and finally had our dinner.




The lower antelope

THE INCREDIBLE LOWER ANTELOPE.

Next we visited Lower Antelope, One of the best place there. I enjoyed to the core. My excitement , surprise about nature went on increasing.  There was a guide who took 15 people in each batch inside the rocks. So Beautiful!! . Glad ! I had the opportunity to see those. The way was little adventurous , but we enjoyed a lot. The path was narrow , we took pictures standing between rocks.

It was just amazing. There are metal stairs all the way through the canyon. It is pretty scenic. We walked through a very narrow underground Canyon. Sanju felt very adventurous and even Shrinka refused to hold my hands. We enjoyed each and every moment out there. From there , we started our journey to the Canyon Village to view the scenic beauty and the sun set. The drive was adventurous and we were thrilled.  On the way ,We saw the sunset playing hide and seek between the trees. We couldn't reach the sunset spot at the right time, but we still enjoyed the prickling cold and the  scenic beauty spots . I never experienced this much cold in my lifetime. 

The beauty of the sunset and sunrise tell me something each day

The wind blowing on the face ,

Made me feel it's pace and grace,

Get inspired by each day 

To make our way !

Going into the nature is the best way to get in touch  with the spirit!

The mountains at the distance sit still in yellow  light !

The sun ahead constantly coloring every sight!

The experience of nature is one of Awe !

This is where the mind is content !

This is where the soul find its happiness and Harmony !

Whether it is majestic mountain range  or Roars of waterfalls or  Calm woods,

These are the places get to know oneself and build bonds with family and friends !


Cold Cold everywhere Cold 

THE TERRIFIC NIGHT !

We started to our motel. The next day , we started at 11.00 am  to our place. On the way , 400 miles before San Antonio (near El paso ). We stuck in a heavy traffic whole night. It was an unimaginable traffic. The cars and trucks were waiting like a chain around 50 miles. We waited in the car for whole night for 15 hours. We struggled for rest rooms. It was damn cold covered with snow and we stayed in the car . As there was a shortage of gas in the car , every one hour we switched on the heater to stay warm. The whole night was terrible. The whole body became sore. Shrinika was lying on me  half of the night. We slept for some time. Sanju became restless and keep on asking when we would reach home. At 8.00 in the morning , we finally find a way through a truck to pass to the opposite road. In between the land was covered with snow till our knee. Sasi and his friend Karthik checked the snow level and finally found a place which is little better. We took a great risk  to cross the road which is completely covered with snow. It was windy too. We prayed all the gods to get out of that place. WE all put our seat belts and closed our eyes. The car started to move inside the snow. We all shouted "Jai Anjaneya". The car somehow managed to get on the road. WE all shouted " Yayyyyyyyyy , We made it" and thanked God. We hurried to the near by gas station which was 20 miles away and rushed to the rest room. There was a big queue. We patiently waited and did our all morning duties. We had breakfast there and took a deep breath and then found an alternate route. The way we decided to go was adventurous too. But we had no choice. We somehow reached our place(San Antonio) at 11. pm.

There was a cold dark situation!

Because of the God's creation !

We stuck in the car !

My eyes were closed hoping and wishing for some miracles !

My soul starts to burn and so did my body out of cold!

Bright sun shined through thick fog!

We find a way !

Miracle happened !God is great !

We are safe ! All is well!

However we struggled , We stayed together.

Everything was great and Beautiful!

I learnt "No matter what comes to our way 

Our challenge was not sent to defeat us , 

It was just sent to increase you "

This winter worth Remembering !

Let it snow !

Important note : I am grateful to Sasi for taking me  to such wonderful places. 

SHE'S ONE OF US - CHAPTER 30

                                        
                                                   

                                                  

 
                                            


Synopsis :

Sai convinced Shree and felt sorry about his mother's question. Shree joined back to work after her recovery. She struggled a lot to understand the concepts. When she was about to lose her hope , Sridharan , a new trainer gave her hope ad confidence. She also became one of his team member along with Swarna (ex room mate of Akhila). Shree went to meet Sai's Father , without the knowledge of Akhila. But Akhila came to know through Swarna that Shree was on leave. Akhila was extremely upset and decided to call her parents .

Telling a lie is  not hard for you right ?

Shree exclaimed "No, No,  Please , Don't do that. It will become a big problem". Akhila shouted in anger and said "If you are here , you are under my custody , if something is going to happen to you , I am the one who is responsible. I am so afraid of you now. I want our parents to know about this. You cheated me  and I never accept this". Meanwhile she dialed their parent's  number. Their dad picked the phone. Akhila told her dad to put the phone on speaker mode. She explained everything to her parents. Shree's mom got furious and shouted "You both are coming in next train to the town". As Akhila's phone was also in speaker mode. Shree replied in a low tone "That will not be possible , I can't take leave". Mom shouted  at Shree "Oh ! You can take leave for Sai's parents  and why not for us. I want to end this. Inform your office that I am not well and telling a lie is not hard for you right ?".  Shree stood silent. Akhila packed all the things and got ready. Shree felt terrible and called Sridharan. Shree in a trembled tone "Sridharan ! I need leave tomorrow as my mom is not well. I am starting to the town tonight". Sridharan asked for further explanations. Shree started crying in phone and said "I will let you know once I reached the town". Srdharan said "Fine ! Do not worry! Mom will be fine. Do not cry". Shree said "Thanks" and disconnected the phone. Mean while ,Akhila was busy outside the room calling her friends . Shree texted to Sai in her phone about the situation and switched off the phone.  They went to the railway station and boarded the train. Shree didn't sleep the whole night. She was much worried about her mom who was very angry. Time paced in high speed. As the train moves , She felt as if she is heading towards the volcano. At  four in the morning , she slept.

Eat good and Cheat ! If you cheat us , Sai will cheat you !

Suddenly she woke up with the jerk . Akhila said "Next station , we need to get down , Get ready". Shree washed her face and got ready to get down. They reached the station. Both of them got down from the train. Shree walked slowly. Akhila shouted at her to walk fast. Shree with the gloomy face walked with her. They took an auto and reached their home. Though , Shree was afraid of her mom , She made up her mind  that whatever happens she was not going to change her mind for anyone. She entered the home with lot of hesitation. Nobody talked and there was a pin drop silence. Mom called for morning breakfast. Everyone including Shree came to have breakfast. Shree sat with a plate  in front of her. Shree's mom served her last, but Shree patiently waited. Finally, Mom served her with food . Shree could feel the anger when she served the food. Shree silently started eating the food. After. two bites, Shree's mom said  in tears" Eat good and cheat us". Shree was keep on eating. Mom was furious as Shree acted as if she was not listening to her . Dad said "Let her have her breakfast  first".  Mom shouted at Shree "Don't you have any shame, How dare you go to their place. If you cheat us ,  Sai will cheat you. God is watching everything". Shree stopped having food and got up. She kept the plate in the  kitchen and washed her hands. Dad said "Finish the breakfast in your plate". Shree said "I am full" and went to the bed room. She felt awful and desperate. She heard mom continuously scolding and threatening her. But , Shree stayed calm. Mom can't tolerate Shree being calm and out of anger she threw a container which was sharp edged  at Shree. It hit on her forehead and she started bleeding. Shree's dad hurried to give her a first aid and he scolded Shree's mom for her action.

Neither lie or truth is a problem , Sai is the problem!

Shree's dad said to her "Shree! . Please tell her  that you will forget Sai and never behave like this". Blood oozed from her forehead and tears oozed from her eyes. She said "I am not angry at mom, If you don't like me , I better go to an orphanage" and sobbed. She continued "When I told truth about him , Mom told that I am dared to speak like that, When I told a lie about him , I heard the same words. Dad said " Neither lie nor truth is the problem. Sai is the problem" . Shree said " Whatever you do , I can't forget Sai ". Dad convinced her but he failed. Finally Dad came to the conclusion that Shree can't be changed. Dad said "Whatever I say to mom , Just nod your head". He said to mom "Shree told me that she will forget him soon , but we need to give her some time. You should wait patiently. Is that right Shree ?".  Shree blinked. Dad continued "Shree said these words to  me , do not talk to her about this anymore". Dad convinced mom and booked tickets for both of them to Chennai. Mom said to Akhila "With in two months, we all will move to Chennai. I need to be with Shree , Otherwise everything will go out of our hand. You make necessary arrangements". Akhila nodded. Meanwhile Sai saw Shree's message and was stunned. He prayed to god that everything should be fine and expected call from Shree. Sai informed a friend about this in the town and asked to watch Shree's home closely. The friend informed that Shree and Akhila have taken a bus to Chennai. Hearing the news , Sai realized that everything was fine and was less worried that Shree somehow tackled the situation.

I thought you are too innocent to fall in love !

Shree and Akhila reached Chennai. She started to office. In office , Sridharan asked about her mom.  Sridharan said "I called you many times but you didn't pick the call. What happened to your forehead ? Why are you wearing band aid". Shree somehow managed to answer his question. Later , Sridharan asked looking at her face "Shree , Are you alright ? Is something wrong with you ? ". Shree don't want to lie to Sridharan anymore. She said every thing that had happened. Sridharan was shocked to hear the story. Though the story was the serious one , Sridharan giggled and said  "I can't believe  that you fell in love with a person. I thought you are too innocent to fall in love". Shree smiled and said "Is the people who fall in love are not innocent? ". Sridharan smiled and said "I didn't mean that , But I got surprised". Shree took a deep breath and said "You are right! I started telling lot of lies which is definitely opposite of innocence". Though Sridharan smiled and made fun, his inner heart didn't like Shree fell in love with a guy who belongs to other caste. Sridharan said "Consider your parents too.. Shree !!,  as they don't want you to get married to a guy who belongs to a different community". Shree heard silently and didn't talk back. Days passed. Shree's parents decide to move to Chennai. They packed their things. Meanwhile Akhila and Shree made necessary arrangements for a rented house. After lots  of struggle , they gave advance money and booked a home for rent. Akhila took Shree to show the home. The home was in the main road and it was always busy. It had a  big lawn in front of the home. An old lady and an old man , the owner of the home came with the bunch of keys to show the home. The home was old one , but looked good and situated in the main area. It had another  home  in upstairs. The old lady said "We are staying upstairs with my son , daughter-in law and my grand daughter  and she is working in an IT company". Shree and Akhila smiled.

Is the home really a good home ?

Akhila asked Shree if she liked the home. Shree nodded and said "I never seen owner staying in upstairs and leaving the ground floor for rent. They usually stay in ground floor and rent the first floor . Is anything wrong ?". Akhila convinced her and said "I struggled to get a home like this in the main road in this price. I feel the people here are good. So do not think much".  Shree nodded. Akhila continued "Tomorrow , we are vacating the hostel and coming here . Next week , Mom and Dad will reach here". Akhila also called her parents about the home been ready. Dad said "We will put all the things in a truck from here to Chennai. It will take a week to reach Chennai, By the time we would reach there". Akhila said "Ok fine , Take care" and disconnected the call. Both packed  their things and reached home. They were alone in the home for three days. Shree was not fine in that home. Something was bothering her mind all the time. Akhila's bank account had zero balance and she  was struggling for money. Shree gave her money to Akhila to pay the truck. It is somehow been spent and they don't had money for the truck. Akhila said "What is happening , I have never been like this after I joined a job. I need to borrow some money from my friend for the truck". That three days ,Akhila was also not happy in that home and said "Being here , Lot of problems. Is the home is  really a good one ?.  I really doubt that". Shree saw some water leakage in the wall. When they started to live in that home , they found so many faults. After three days , their parents arrived. Shree and Akhila was happy to see their parents. Akhila introduced the house owner to her parents. The old lady asked "When are your things are arriving from the town". Dad replied "In a couple of days". The house owner praised their home to the core. Akhila and Shree blinked at each other. They bad bye to them and left the place.

                     

                 

Her heart missed a beat !

That night , everyone finished their dinner and went to sleep. Everybody was sleeping in the living room which is the very first room of the home. The house had no balcony. The living room had a small window , through which they can see the road and the lawn. Shree's mom didn't get sleep. Whenever there is a bad omen or bad things happen , Shree's mom have some instincts before it happens. She felt cold tingling feeling and darkness feeling. As she was a person who does pooja and prayers all the time, she had the  power to feel the paranormal as well.  Suddenly her arms  were freezing and were unable to move. She could feel something was terribly wrong. But others in the home were sleeping. She didn't disturb anyone and was thinking deeply about her  feeling. Suddenly she heard a weird sound of cry from outside the living room. She managed herself to get up slowly without noise. She opened the window door slightly and looked at the lawn. She couldn't believe what she was seeing and paralysed with fear. She felt , she couldn't move and also couldn't drag her eyes away from that thing. She found a shadowy figure which looks like a lady with loose hair sobbing heavily. The cry became louder and louder. Shree's mom silently chanted prayers. The shadow figure seemed to re- position itself strangely as if it was turning to look at her. Mom realized it was looking at her and kept a step back and hurried to the bed. She closed her eyes tightly chanting vedic slogams. Her heart was beating at a high pace. After few minutes , she again went near the window. She was  terribly shocked now and her heart missed a beat.

And now , I can hear you saying "Ghost suspense ??..What is the shock? What did she see ? , Is that the women ghost  or anything else ? ". And I say "Wait for the next episode .. I may not be able to release the chapter on next Friday , as I am planning  my vacation next week. Probably in the middle of the week , I will publish the next episode and keep you updated in face book. Thanks for the continuous support and encouragement. Keep Reading !!"

SHE'S ONE OF US - CHAPTER 29

                                                         

                                        

Synopsis:

Shree got appendix. So,  she and Akhila moves to their home town and Shree was operated . Sai was too worried about Shree and went to the hospital to see Shree. Shree went to the graduation day. There she met Sai's mother. His mother's question , "Can you able to have kids after your marriage?" made Shree dumbstruck

Even If you are an angel, You are a waste

 She was shocked to the core and didn't expect such a question from Sai's mother, Shree smiled in shock, though  she don't want to. Sai's mother keenly watched Shree's reactions and stressed the question again as there was no verbal response from Shree. Shree decided to give the same shock to her back, So Shree smiled and asked "What if , I say , I can't have a child".  Sai's mother was so shocked and said "If that is the case , you can't  marry my son". Shree again gave a wide smile and said "There is nothing to say on this . Let's stop here.  Go to your son and tell him that she can't have child after marriage and try to forget her". Sai's mother was furious and said "Even if you are an angel , if you are unable to give birth to a kid , you are a waste". Shree smiled and said "Hmm Hhhmmm". Shree said "Okay fine. Go and talk to Sai about this and take a decision". Sai's mother said "Yes , I'll take care". Shree smiled and said "You have any other questions to ask me?". Sai's mother starred at her. Shree said "Thank you . It's getting late for my graduation function". Sai's mother in frustration said "I heard that you got University first rank, but what is the use. I pity you". Shree giggled and said "Thanks". Shree moved forward near the stage. Her name been called. She stepped into the stage with pride.  Every hair at her back stood up . That was the precious day ,  which Shree dreamed. She took the award and passed Sai's mother. Sai's mother thought shree was coming to her to show the award. She by passed her and went straight to her mom and dad and showed the certificate. She happily got their blessings.  Kalpana noticed this and added fuel to Sai's mother thoughts. Kaplana said "I said to you , that she is prideful, but you never listened to me". Sai's mother bite her teeth in anger and left the place.

I love her so much 

The moment Sai's mother reached home , she saw Sai sitting and reading a newspaper. She was restless and angry. She said to Sai "I need to talk to you". Sai lethargically said "About what ?". She said "About Shree". Sai kept the newspaper and said "How was the graduation function. Did you see Shree getting the rank?. She struggled a lot to get that rank. God didn't give me that opportunity to see her happiness at that moment". Sai's mother said "Will you please stop it. She got operated in her abdomen and she can't have child. She is saying that to me  without any hurts. I won't allow her to come to this house as my daughter in law. Moreover she insulted me without showing the award". Sai said furiously  "What did you ask her ? ". Sai's mother said "I asked directly if she can have child after the marriage and she accepted that". And now Sai understood everything. Sai said " First of all , why did you ask such a stupid question to her and what she would have thought about you. How cheap ...That's completely fine , I want to make one thing very clear. I love her so much, even if she can't have kids. She lied to you because she got frustrated of your stupid question. Even she can't have kids , It is up to me to decide my life. I will never leave her for any reason. By the by Shree is completely fine to have kids".  Sai's mother was  furious and said  "How can she lie like this? Is she not ashamed to lie and it is her future". Sai said "She already would have come to a conclusion that she don't need such a future. I really don't know how to convince her on this". Sai's mother was about to continue to talk. Sai said "Nothing to talk any more. You are testing my patience. I am leaving town today". Sai didn't spoke a word to his mother and left the place. Though Sai's mother don't like Shree , but relaxed hearing from Sai that she could have a kid.

There came a light

Shree recovered completely and started to Chennai. She joined back to her work. She was in her probation period. She got great help from colleagues. As she was in the training period, She and her batch were called to the seminar room. Everybody was in the seminar room. A lady came and took the training . She didn't understand a single concept. Being a science student , It was so difficult to understand some banking concepts without accountancy and business background. Her mind became dark and fear came out because of lack of confidence in subjects. She felt like she was a stupid. She don't like the job. Even she concentrated in the training she couldn't hope up with that. When she was about to lose her hope, there came a light. That day , when everyone was assembled in the training room , a gentle man with full determination came inside the room and introduced himself as the new trainer. He said "I am Sridharan, your new trainer. You have no other option to bare with me".  Everyone including Shree introduced themselves to Sridharan. He was too talkative , but good at heart. On the first day of his training , Shree felt some bonding between them. Shree was so happy because , he taught the concepts well. Whenever Shree had doubt , Sridharan understood by her face and explained again. They became good friends. Sridharan liked Shree very much and pulled her into his team. Shree was so happy to work with Sridharan.  Swarna (The ex room mate of Akhila) also belonged to the same team. Sridharan supported her so much technically and personally. Shree started growing day by day.

Cool down!

That evening, In the hostel, Shree called Sai. Sai was eagerly awaiting her call. Sai said "Hello Shree , I am so sorry , that my mother asked such a question to you. I really felt miserable now. I again ask you million sorry on her behalf". Shree smiled and said "Sai . Cool down. I know you. Though , I was irritated of her question , I know you never leave me at any cost. Only one thing which makes me sad is that she is least worried about my health. Definitely , The relationship with her won't be much good if she continue the same in future. I am sorry to say this". Sai said "Hmm..I understand. I will try to talk to her". Shree smiled and said "You can try ... but we can't change people that easily ". Sai said "Okay, Are you not angry with me ?". Shree said "No , not at all, But please remember I will not be polite to this kind of questions all the time". Sai said "No worries , I' ll take care". Shree talked about his office and her new team.  Suddenly Shree heard a knock at the door. She hurried and hide the phone in her bag and opened the door. It was Akhila. Akhila got fresh up and said , This week , I m going to our town. Shree said "I have office in weekends , so I can't come with you". Akhila said "Fine , I will go alone and you just take care". Shree nodded. That weekend Shree decided to go to Sai's home.

You did all these ?

It was Saturday morning , Shree went to office and finished her work .She  went to the railway station. There she saw Sai , waiting for her. She happily held his hands and took a train. They walked home from the station and both reached his place. She said "I am so hungry, we should have got something to eat from restaurant". It was a descent home with a single bed room . Though , it is a little old house, Shree liked the home so much. There was a garden in front of the home. Sai said " You like the home ? The next home where  the house owner resides. Come on , I will introduce them to you". They both went to their home and Sai introduced Shree  to them and said that they were going to be married soon. The house owner congratulated them. They both bade bye to them and came to his home. Shree went to the kitchen to make something for them to eat. In the rack , she saw something been hided by news papers. She just took the news paper slowly and was shocked. She saw the whole south Indian meals. Rice , Sambhar , Rasam , Vegetable curry, ,Pappad ,Pickles , curd , and Payasam (dessert). She shouted "Sai , come here". He heard Shree and came to the kitchen. Shree said "You did all these?". Sai smiled and said "Yes. You are coming here for the first time. I need to give you a  treat. You have no other choice . You need to eat all". Shree smiled and smelled every yummy dish. They both started having their lunch. She exclaimed "Oh my god .. Very tasty, You are a great cook". Sai smiled and said "I am so happy that you liked it". After having lunch ,  they talked for an hour. Shree said "It is getting late , I am leaving to hostel". Sai dropped her in the hostel. Akhila called the hostel and confirmed that Shree reached the hostel.

The  Guest Friend 

The weekend got over. Akhila reached the hostel from the town. Akhila brought a guest to their room. When Akhila arrived, Shree was already left to office. Akhila said to the guest friend "I am also starting to office now. you take rest. Shree will come early in the evening. She is definitely going to be shocked and surprised by seeing you. I mean in a good way.  We will talk in the evening about jobs". The guest friend smiled and nodded. Akhila left her and started to office. The guest friend cleaned the room. Everything in the room sparkled. She arranged the closet and arranged the books. She even cleaned the toilets. Finally she soaked all the clothes of Shree and washed . She went to upstairs , dried everything, ironed and arranged them in the closet. She watched TV for sometime and prepared for interviews. When the clock stroke five , she remembered Akhila saying about the arrival of Shree. So , She ran down with the flask, filled with tea  and came to the room. Shree reached the hostel and tried to open the door with her key and was surprised that door was locked from inside. She thought Akhila would have come early from her office. Shree knocked the door. When the guest opened the door , Shree didn't expect her and both of them shouted in joy. They hugged each other. Shree shouted "Priya ! How come you are here ?". Priya said "That's a big story. My mom and dad met you parents. We were not financially too good now a days , so i decided to go for work. That time as sister Akhila was in Chennai . With no thought , she asked me to come with her". Shree smiled and said "I am so happy that you are here". 

What girl are you ?

Shree said "I saw the tea pot was empty , Can we go out and have some tea ?". Priya said "No, I have already taken some tea for you and me. Akhila sister said that she will be late and she only needs dinner". Shree smiled and said "Very good , come on , we'll have tea" and she saw the room neat and tidy. She opened the closet to take a night dress. She was surprised to see her clothes were ironed and neatly arranged. Shree said "Oh my god , Why did you do these ? ". She went to the toilet and it was sparkling. Shree took a deep breathe "You didn't leave even the toilet ? What girl are you? ". Priya smiled and said "What is your problem ? I am doing this for my lovable friend". Shree said "I am happy that you love me so much .  But , please beware that some one take advantage of your sweetness. I am so worried about that". Priya said "I am so happy when I think I am doing for this". Shree again hugged her tight and said "I'll take care my work. Don't stress yourself  please". Priya said "If I can do , I will definitely do all these at least till I get a job. Understood!!!!  and no body can stop me". Shree said "OH my god ... God  please give her

a job soon". Priya was with Shree and Akhila and searched job. The whole week , Shree and Priya shared a lot with each other.  But after a week , Priya's dad called her back to the town. Priya got a bank loan to continue her studies. So, she bade bye to Shree and Akhila and went to the town. Shree missed Priya very badly. 
Every Saturday, Shree and Sai met in the railway station and  sometimes Sai also took her to his home. Shree was so happy and she made friends with Sai's neighbors. Days went by ...

Will you ignore your parents?

One Saturday , Sai and Shree met each other in railway station. He said "Coming Thursday , Kalapana is getting married in Chennai. My father and my brother is coming from abroad. My mother and sister are also coming as well. They were leaving on Friday night.  I want you to come home this Friday to meet him. I want to introduce you to him". Shree said "Yes , sure. I will inform leave to office and I will come there. Akhila will think that I will be in office. Evening as usual I'll go to hostel before she comes". Sai nodded. It was friday morning , Shree pretended as if she was going to office , but she went to the railway station. She reached his home. Sai introduced her to his father and brother. Shree greeted them and Sai's mother as well. Sai's mother pretended to be happy. Sai's father liked Shree very much. He talked to Shree for hours. He asked "What if your parents don't accept? Will you come to us  ignoring them?". Shree said "I am sure that they would accept. If not ,  I won't come to your home ignoring them. I can't do that at any cost".  Sai's dad thought for while and smiled. Sai's mom said "What will my son do , if your parents didn't accept?". Shree said "I am confident that my parents will accept , but as you doubt that, you have always another choice that you can find another girl and make Sai get married. But I know that won't happen". Sai's father was little worried that Shree's parents won't accept their son as their son in law , but he had no choice to accept Sai's wish.  In the evening Sai dropped her in the hostel. She went to her room and saw the door was opened. She was shocked to see Akhila sitting in the room. Shree felt something was wrong and she was furious. Shree pretended that she was casual. She asked "You came early from office today ?". Akhila starred and asked "Where do you went ?". Shree swallowed and said " To office". Akhila shouted "Do not lie to me. From the morning , I am searching you. I thought of getting a personal loan in your name and tried to contact you through Swarna. But Swarna said that you are on leave. Now tell me where you went?". Shree thought , it is no point in hiding anything. She said the truth. Akhila was furious "Do you know , how I am worried about you. From the morning , I am restless thinking where you have gone. I am not going to leave this". She took the phone and called her parents.

And now , I can hear you saying "What happened? Did Akhila informed her parents ? Did they punish Shree for that ? ". And I say "Be Patient till next Friday" 

SHE'S ONE OF US - CHAPTER 28

                                   

It is in the rupturing stage! 

In the clinic , Shree was crying in pain. The doctor checked her and said Akhila  "When I checked , She says pain in her lower abdomen. I doubt there might be some kidney stones or appendicitis.  Take her to a big hospital". Akhila was terrified. Both of them went to the hostel and started to the hospital. All time Shree was crying in pain. Both took an auto and reached the hospital. There were lot of patients waiting for their turns. Shree couldn't bare the pain. Seeing her pain , Akhila went inside and informed about her condition. The receptionist said "We are having lot of patients like you , You have to wait please". That time the doctor came out of his room and went to the scanning room. By the time , he noticed Shree crying in pain. He asked Shree "What happened". Akhila answered the question. The doctor said to the receptionist "A patient is crying in pain , you should have informed me" and continued looking at Akhila "Ask her to drink more water, We'll see the scan in 10 minutes". Akhila thanked the doctor. Shree struggled to drink water , but she couldn't drink much. When she tried to drink more water. She vomited everything. After a while , she drank water again and controlled her vomiting. Shree was called inside. Akhila seated outside and started praying. The doctor came out of the scanning room and informed Akhila about Shree's  status.  He said "It is appendicitis. It is in the rupture stage and need to be operated quickly. Otherwise it is very dangerous". Akhila was shocked and was about to cry , however she controlled her tears and said "Thank you , Doctor , I'll take her to the hostel now , I'll discuss with my parents and will come tomorrow". The doctor said "Come as soon as possible. I have prescribed some medicine for the pain , get it from our pharmacy".  Akhila said "Yes, Thank you". Shree took that tablets and both of them started from the hospital , but still Shree was not relieved from the pain.

As we are new to the city , We don't know about the doctors here!

After reaching the hostel , Shree was lying on the bed. Akhila was calling her parents and informed everything. They were so shocked. Shree's dad contacted Sarathy (The gentle man who helped Shree with her cycle and the school donation). Sarathy became a best family friend in these years. Sarathy said to Shree's parents "Do not worry ,  As we are new to the city, We don't know about the doctors there . Luckily, one of my friend is practicing in Chennai , I 'll call him and inform him about that and will call you in ten minutes". Shree's Dad said "Yes" and disconnected the phone. After ten minutes Sarathy called and said "Do not worry , My friend will go to her hostel and give a nerve injection to control her pain and I booked two tickets in the evening train for both of your girls to our town. Let them come tomorrow morning and get admitted in the hospital here". Shree's dad said "Thank you so much". Sarathy said "It's okay , Never mention it. As it is a health issue , we need to hurry . Inform this to your girls". Shree's dad said "Yes, I'll inform them". and disconnected the phone. Shree's dad called Akhila and said everything about Sarathy's plan. By the time , Sarathy's doctor friend was in the hostel. Akhila and Shree were so happy even in this tough situation that there are good people were around  to help them. They both thanked the doctor friend and Sarathy .

It was worse than her appendix pain!

After sometime ,The pain subsided. Shree called Sai when Akhila was not around and passed the information. Sai was so shocked and  said "I'll come in the evening to the railway station to meet you". Akhila and Shree packed their clothes and started to the railway station. Four friends of Akhila helped them to reach the station. In the station , Akhila saw Sai. Akhila starred at Shree and said "Why is he here ?". Shree said "I called him in your phone when you were in the toilet ".  Akhila got furious , but didn't express it. Sai came near Akhila and said "I came to know Shree was not well. I just want to see her". Akhila kept mum and went inside the train. Shree spoke to Sai for 2 minutes. Sai bought some fruits , food ,water and gave it to Akhila's friend and asked them to give those to Akhila. Shree smiled at Sai . Akhila's friend knew Sai . He understood him and hand over them to Akhila. Sai tapped on Shree's head and said "Get well soon, Nothing to worry, I am starting to our town tomorrow. Take care". Shree nodded. Sai had tears in his eyes and said "Is it paining now ?". Shree said "Why are you weeping like a kid. No , No , I am okay now" and held his hands. The train was about to start. Shree went inside. Akhila's friends said to Akhila "Inform the status of Shree , then and there. We are much worried". Akhila nodded and said "Yes and thank you so much".  Everyone including Sai bade bye to Akhila and Shree. Shree couldn't see the sad face of Sai as it was worse than her appendicitis pain. In the train , they had the dinner. Akhila made Shree to rest comfortably in the seat. The whole night , Akhila was watching Shree without sleeping. Shree said "Do not worry about me. I am fine . Get some sleep please". Akhila said "Yes , But if you don't feel fine , please wake me up". Shree said "Yes , sure". Both of them slept for a while.

She walked bold!

The train reached their town. Shree's parents came to the station to pick them up. They all went in a taxi to the hospital which Sarathy recommended. Shree got admitted in the hospital. Shree's mom stayed in the hospital and asked Akhila to go home to get fresh. They took turns to look after Shree. The doctor checked the reports and arranged for the operation in the evening. Shree changed her costume and got ready for the operation . Though she had no idea about what was going to happen,  She walked with boldness and sat in a stool outside the operation room. After 5 minutes , they called her inside. She was asked to lie down in the bed and was given anesthesia. Though, she felt the giddiness, She was not completely unconscious and could feel each and every thing. She heard a loud motor sound. While she was concentrating on the sound, she could feel three large needles drilling inside her abdomen. She was terrified , but couldn't move her legs and hands as they were tied. The pain was unbearable. She started blabbering the name "Sai" in pain without her knowledge.

This too will pass !

 Suddenly she felt , it was dark everywhere and some one rushing outside the operation theater . She can also hear the doctor shouting to switch on the theater generator. She can feel , everybody was terrified because something got wrong. She prayed and could visualize her Raghavendra swamy. She said "Save me ! Save me !". Suddenly the darkness disappeared and the room was bright. Again the drilling sound started. After half an hour , the sound became weak. But , now she felt a terrible pain of stitching her body. Her heart said "This too will pass ... This too will pass". The operation was over. Shree was moved to another room. She was too delicate. The doctor informed all the instructions to her parents. The doctor said "Who is Sai ?". Shree's mom was furious  and asked "Why ? you know him?".  The doctor smiled and said "No, She was blabbering the name all the time". Shree's mom starred at her  dad . Shree's dad said "This is not the right time to show your anger, Please". Akhila said "Amma ! Whatever we do , we can't change her , she was all the time thinking of him. He even came to the station to see her". Shree's mom was quite and saw Shree with tears.  By the time Sai  was on the way to  the town thinking of Shree.

Can you sit near me and Hold my hands Please !

The next day , Shree got up and struggled to walk. She somehow managed. Shree's dad and mom brought breakfast for her . She had her breakfast and her  parents went outside to meet a person. Suddenly Sai entered the room. Shree started weeping seeing him. Sai in a low tone asked "Is the operation over ?". Shree with tears in her eyes, nodded. Sai said "I can't stay in my home without seeing you. Akhila's friend informed me that you are in this hospital". Shree said "Can you sit near me and hold my hands please". Sai held her hands and said "I am leaving now, If Amma and Appa sees me , It will be a big problem. You get well soon , My thoughts and prayers are always with you". Shree nodded. By the time , Shree 's dad entered the room and was shocked to see Sai sitting by Shree's side. Dad said "How are you ? Akhila said you came to the station". Sai stood up and said "Thank you Appa , Thank god you asked 'How are you?' instead of 'Why are you here?'". Dad smiled and said "Please , leave now , If Amma comes , she will make a big issue". Sai thanked him and left the place. Shree's dad looked at Shree and said "Do not worry , everything will fall in right place". Shree , with tears in her eyes turned her face towards the window. After her Mom came , Shree's dad didn't tell a word about Sai at that moment. And in the right time , he told mom about Sai's arrival to the hospital. Though , Shree's mom was furious , she kept mum.

It is the Graduation day !

After two days, Shree was discharged from the hospital. She continued the tablets and the medicines. She recovered slowly. Shree's dad said "In two days , Graduation day. Can you able to come ?". Shree said "Yes , of course. I am waiting for this auspicious day for a long time . How can I miss that ?". The graduation day arrived. Shree went to the college and met her friends. Everybody congratulated her for her University Rank. Shree was overwhelmed in happiness . Shree made her parents to be seated. She was standing with her friends in the canteen. Suddenly , a hand tapped her from behind. She turned to see who it was and saw  Kalpana and Sai's mother standing. Shree smiled and said "How are you?, Amma". Sai's mother said "Fine ! Sai told me that today is graduation day and I came here to meet you. I heard that you been operated". Shree smiled and nodded. Sai's mother said "Are you okay now ?". Shree said "Yes , thank you. I have little pain , but will be completely fine soon" Sai's mother held her hands and said in a low voice "Can you come that side for a minute. Need to talk to you personally". Shree blinked and said "Yes". Both of them went far from her friends. Shree said "Tell me , What is it?". Sai's mom asked "What is wrong with you ?  Sai is not telling me completely about the operation and I don't understand what he tells. As the operation is related to abdomen, I doubt that you be able to have kids after your marriage". Shree was dumb struck.


And I can hear you saying "What was  Shree's answer  for this question? Is her heart broken or Did she get mad at Sai's mother. What was her reaction to this?". And I say "The same word "Patience! Patience! Till next Friday""