Diwali in India is unlike any holiday or celebration in the western world. An entire country’s population (Unlike Christmas in the States, everyone participates in Diwali.) lights up their houses inside and outside; some use little candles to create bright outlines around their homes. Everyone gives each other gifts; new clothes are worn; fantastic dinners are eaten.

And fireworks. Oh, the fireworks. They go all day – and all night. Don’t even try sleeping. Just join your family on the rooftop and enjoy the show.

As much as I enjoyed the company of Swati, Soni, and Sumeet, I would be remiss if I didn’t dedicate an entire entry to this captivating boy of unlimited energy, wisdom, and mischief.

I met a lot of my extended family in India – some for the first time. One person who I had met before and was looking forward to seeing again was Swati – my interesting, wise, and charming cousin.

Watching my cousins just be was one of my favorite activities. It became a challenge to answer them when they would ask what I wanted to do; their day-to-day activities were a source of such fascination.