As I write this here in Kathmandu, Nepal, it is the afternoon.

Reuniting with my cousin sister was a great experience. Her nam is Yangi. I call her “Nanu Yangi”.

Nanu Yangi and I had spent time together in our garden when we were toddlers.

However, we went our separate ways when I was just 18 months old.

I to the U.S. and her in Nepal.

But embracing my sister after 34 years and 6 months it was a special feeling.

As for my cousin brother, Tsering, meeting him for the first time was very overwhelming.

Tsering had greeted me at the airport and embracing each other with a huge warm hug felt like we had known each other our whole lives.

The feeling of love and brotherhood was something I will never forget.

Tsering is 32 and I am 36. I had heard many fun stories about him growing up. And to finally meet him and embrace him was something I am forever grateful for.

Nanu Yangi and Tsering’s wedding was amazing.

They were special in their own way.

What was memorable for me was seeing all of our family together for the first time in 35 years and seeing my sister Nanu Yangi marrying into a Hindu culture.

Also, very memorable for me was seeing my cousin Tsering marrying into a Magar Hindu culture and dancing joyfully with our family.

Laughing, dancing, and living life freely is a memory that will be forever in my heart and mind.

Fortunately, our journey has just begun.

The next chapter is Junbesi, Solu Khumbu. My home land.

I’ll see you guys there.

Love from Kathmandu,
Sonam