Just thought that in the manner of all self-obsessed bloggers, I would allow to enjoy a photo of my breakfast this morning.

It’s Diwali!

Like all Indians living abroad, the festival never fails to open up childhood memories – of new clothes; of waking up early in the morning and having baths with utana – a kind of perfumed scrub – and oil; of dear old Vimal shouting “Heppy Diwali” at 5.30 am to wake us up; of my dad haranguing our family priest to shorten the annual puja; of loads of food that was made days in advance but only released to us on Diwali morning; and loads and loads of mithai gifting. Yes, mithais – the supremely sweet Indian sweets made of milk, ghee, nuts and god knows what else.

Of course, we try and recreate some of these memories for our son – so in between swimming training sessions over yesterday and today we’ve had our baths with oil (Jo Malone obv) and paste; we’ve lit numerous lamps around the house; we’ve presented friends with small lamps and big mithai boxes; we’ve graciously accepted small lamps and big mithai boxes; we’ve watched bonfire night fireworks in Blackheath and pretended they were laid on for us by Lewisham in honour of Diwali – and more importantly we are continuing to gorge ourselves into oblivion till Tuesday when Diwali ends!

Happy Diwali!