An Epic Adventure: Surviving a Family Trip with a Baby and a Toddler

29th May 2023

Ah, family trips—a perfect recipe for chaos, laughter, and a little bit of madness. Our recent expedition to Champhai, Khawbung, and Lungdar with our 4-month-old baby girl and her mischievous 2.7-year-old big brother was nothing short of an unforgettable adventure. Buckle up and prepare for a rollercoaster ride through the hilarity that ensued!

First things first, packing for the trip felt like a mission impossible. Diapers, bottles, toys, strollers, snacks—our luggage resembled a traveling circus. We packed enough supplies to sustain a small army, but little did we know that our energetic toddler had secret plans to unpack everything as soon as we arrived.

As we hit the road, it didn't take long for the crying chorus to commence. Our baby girl had a knack for timing her meltdowns perfectly, ensuring that they coincided with the most inconvenient moments. Whether it was during our much-needed coffee break or when we finally found a picturesque spot for a family photo, she made her presence known.

The cries ranged from tiny whimpers to full-blown wails that could wake up the entire neighborhood. We became experts in deciphering the different cries—a hungry cry, a tired cry, a "why did you take away my brother's toy" cry—the list seemed endless. It was as if she had a secret baby code, communicating her every need through tears, leaving us scratching our heads in confusion.

Our toddler, bless his little heart, tried to console his baby sister with his own unique tactics. He'd sing his favorite nursery rhymes at the top of his lungs, attempting to drown out her cries with his enthusiastic rendition of "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star." It was a battle of decibels—a crying baby versus an aspiring opera singer in training.

The baby's cries became the soundtrack of our journey, serenading us with her ever-changing symphony of emotions. We found ourselves resorting to desperate measures to soothe her—singing lullabies, making funny faces, and even attempting questionable dance moves in the car. Oh, the things we do to bring a smile to our little one's face!

But amidst the chaos, there were moments of pure hilarity. Our baby girl had impeccable comedic timing, saving her biggest cries for the most unexpected situations. Picture this: a serene countryside scene, birds chirping, and suddenly, our baby girl unleashes a cry so loud it could rival a fire alarm. It was as if she wanted to ensure that the entire town knew of her presence.

The usual chorus of "Are we there yet?" and the sweet symphony of baby cries in the backseat. But amidst the chaos, we discovered that car rides could be transformed into karaoke sessions. Our toddler showcased his impressive vocal range, singing everything from nursery rhymes to TBC Zaithanpuia's song. Who knew a road trip could rival a concert?

The road to our destination was paved with anticipation and a healthy dose of toddler impatience. Our little explorer-in-chief couldn't contain his excitement, constantly pointing out every construction site we passed. But there was one thing that truly stole his heart—a JCB. Yes, that bright yellow excavator captured his attention like a moth to a flame.

Every time we spotted a JCB on the way, it was as if a magnetic force pulled us towards it. Our carefully planned itinerary took a backseat as we embarked on spontaneous pit stops to admire these construction marvels. Our toddler's eyes lit up with joy as we parked alongside these giants of the construction world.

One might wonder, what's so fascinating about a JCB? Well, for our little one, it was a larger-than-life toy come to life. He watched with awe as the excavator's mechanical arm gracefully lifted dirt and maneuvered with precision. It was as if he had discovered a real-life superhero, capable of digging holes and moving mountains. His admiration for JCBs became the soundtrack of our journey, with endless chants of "JCB, JCB!" echoing through the car.

Our toddler had a keen eye for spotting these magnificent machines from miles away. He'd excitedly point in the distance, yelling, "JCB ahead!" and we'd eagerly follow his lead, embarking on another unplanned detour.

As we arrived in Champhai, our little explorers couldn't contain their excitement. Our 2.7-year-old unleashed his inner adventurer, determined to conquer every playground in sight. From slides to swings, he fearlessly navigated the jungle gyms, leaving no stone unturned—literally, as he collected a pocketful of pebbles as souvenirs.

The journey continued to Khawbung, where we discovered the true meaning of multitasking. Again,  picture this: attempting to change a diaper while simultaneously chasing a toddler who was convinced he could outsmart us in a game of hide-and-seek. We found ourselves engaged in a never-ending race against time, as our toddler's mischievous grin led us on a wild goose chase through Khawbung's charming streets.

In Lungdar, nature's beauty unfolded before our eyes. Our baby girl, experiencing her first encounter with breathtaking landscapes, couldn't help but express her awe in the most adorable ways—through gurgles, squeals, and a constant state of wide-eyed wonder. It was as if she had discovered a whole new world, filled with endless possibilities.

Throughout the trip, all of our rooms transformed into obstacle courses. Toys, diapers, and bottles scattered across the floor, creating a minefield of chaos. Our 2.7-year-old demonstrated his extraordinary talent for transforming any space into a playground, while our baby girl mastered the art of crying at the most inconvenient times.

But amid the craziness, there were moments of pure joy. Watching our children interact and create their own little adventures reminded us of the magic of family bonds. Whether it was our toddler teaching his baby sister how to crawl or the contagious laughter that filled the air, these fleeting moments made every chaotic second worth it.

As we bid farewell to Champhai, Khawbung, and Lungdar, we reflected on the ups and downs of our family trip. It was a journey filled with unexpected surprises, endless laughter, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of chaos. And even though we returned home slightly sleep-deprived and in dire need of a vacation from our vacation, we wouldn't trade those precious memories for anything in the world.

So, to all the brave souls embarking on a family trip

The Choice

Dated Aizawl, the 19th of April, 2020

"I don't have a choice" is a phrase that has been repeatedly used by countless individuals, but I firmly believe it's nothing more than a convenient excuse. The truth is, we always have choices available to us. Sometimes, however, we hesitate to make a decision because we are fully aware of the potential consequences.

Life can be perceived as remarkably simple when we realize that everything is ultimately a choice. Let's take a simple example: you're feeling hungry, and there's food on your table. In that moment, you can't genuinely claim that you have no choice but to eat. The reality is, you have the choice to not eat if you so desire. However, you also understand that if you opt not to eat, you'll remain hungry and may encounter stomach problems that would necessitate medication. The chain of consequences can continue. It is this understanding that leads you to the simple and logical choice of eating.

Consider another scenario where you know the food on the table is poisoned. In this case, you wouldn't even be tempted to take a bite. Your common sense guides you, clearly indicating which choice is the right one.

Life's essence lies in making decisions. It's a matter of choosing between options that align with our desires, values, and overall well-being. When we make the right choice, it brings a sense of fulfillment and contentment. Conversely, making the wrong choice often leaves us feeling regretful or facing undesirable consequences. This is the fundamental reality of existence.

There are instances where we desperately yearn for something, even when we are fully aware of the potential negativity and consequences associated with obtaining it. Take the example of meeting someone you're infatuated with. Despite numerous warnings from well-meaning individuals who caution that this person may not be the ideal match for you, you not only choose to disregard their advice but even rebuff them, insisting that they mind their own business. Regardless of the warnings, you still pursue the connection. Yet, sooner or later, a moment arrives when you realize the wisdom in those cautionary words, and you find yourself uttering, "I should have listened to them."

Nevertheless, there are moments when common sense alone is insufficient to make a decision. Opting for happiness doesn't automatically ensure a happier existence. It requires action and effort. Choosing happiness means actively engaging in activities and pursuits that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives. It means taking responsibility for our own well-being and actively seeking out the things that genuinely bring us happiness.

In conclusion, the notion of "I don't have a choice" is a fallacy we often convince ourselves of when we are hesitant to face the potential consequences of our decisions. Life is a series of choices, and the outcomes we experience are directly influenced by the choices we make. While common sense can guide us to some extent, true happiness and fulfillment require proactive engagement and deliberate actions. Remember, you always have a choice, and the path you choose shapes the course of your life.

Lungvando: The Mysterious Stone That Held Up the Sky

 28/8/23

Time: 2001
Place: Aizawl

Nestled between the quaint villages of E.Lungdar and Biate lies an extraordinary relic steeped in ancient legend and wonder. Known as Lungvando, this fabled stone has mesmerized the inhabitants of the region for centuries. Believed to have once reached the sky and acted as a safeguard against a falling firmament, the base of Lungvando continues to be an intriguing sight, visible between the two villages to this day.

 

According to the rich tapestry of folklore woven by generations past, Lungvando emerged as a celestial protector in a time when fear of impending catastrophe loomed over the land. The ancient inhabitants firmly believed that the sky, the very roof of their world, was in danger of collapsing upon them. It was in this climate of trepidation that Lungvando appeared as a symbol of hope and salvation.

 

Described as an immense stone of awe-inspiring stature, Lungvando was said to have extended towards the heavens, anchoring the celestial realm to the earth below. Its colossal base, still visible between E.Lungdar and Biate villages, served as a testament to its once lofty reach. The locals revered Lungvando as a divine artifact, attributing their safety and harmony to its mythical power.

 

The story of Lungvando soon spread beyond the borders of the region, drawing visitors from far and wide who were eager to witness this extraordinary stone that defied the laws of nature. Pilgrims, historians, and explorers embarked on journeys to catch a glimpse of the fabled relic, fascinated by its alleged role in holding up the sky itself.

 

As time passed, the legend of Lungvando intertwined with the cultural fabric of the region, becoming an inseparable part of its identity. The stone's enduring presence between E.Lungdar and Biate villages has captivated countless generations, inspiring wonder and igniting the human imagination.

 

Today, visitors and locals alike can gaze upon the base of Lungvando, a tangible connection to a bygone era of myth and marvel. The stone's prominent position continues to stir curiosity, inviting contemplation about the origins and purpose of such an extraordinary artifact.

 

While the true nature of Lungvando remains a topic of speculation and intrigue, its legend persists, reminding us of the profound power of human storytelling and the unyielding human spirit's yearning for protection and meaning. Lungvando stands as a testament to our collective imagination and the capacity of legends to shape our perceptions of the world.

 

As travelers traverse the area between E.Lungdar and Biate villages, they pause to marvel at the ancient stone that allegedly held up the sky, pondering the mysteries and marvels that still abound in our ever-changing world. Lungvando's enduring presence serves as a reminder that sometimes the greatest wonders can be found in the legends that bridge the gap between the extraordinary and the ordinary.

Beetle

When you try your best but you don't succeed
When you get what you want but not what you need
When you feel so tired but you can't sleep
Stuck in reverse

Have you ever found yourself muttering, "Life's not fair"? I bet you have. It's a sentiment that has crossed all of our minds at least once. But the real question is, "Do you give up?" Hold on a minute, don't misunderstand me—I'm not here to discuss motivational topics. You know me, I'm not that kind of person, well, not that intellectually astute individual. I tend to sprinkle "LOL" into conversations, whether it's fitting or not. So, LOL.

Lately, life has thrown a lot at me. There have been countless moments where I've felt like throwing in the towel. Things haven't been running smoothly for quite some time now, and I've given up on many people. That's true—I'm the type of person who knows when to call it quits. I believe that recognizing when to quit is a smart approach to dealing with life's challenges. But don't get me wrong, I never give up without putting up a fight.

A couple of months ago, against the advice of loved ones who cautioned against it, I adopted a dog from someone. He's an incredibly lovable pet. I've grown so fond of him that despite the mistakes I've made as a pet owner, I want to keep him forever. I named him "Beetle."

I adore him, but unlike my previous pets, Beetle has many bad habits. I discovered that his previous owner never provided any kind of discipline. They simply let him do as he pleased. He refuses to eat in the morning and prefers sleeping during the day instead of at night. He makes noise throughout the night but snoozes away during the day. What a peculiar dog. When I take him for a walk, he leaves me stranded in a crowd and constantly worries me. I've tried teaching him, but he never seems to listen. I've given him everything he needs—food, a chewing bone, a special couch—everything I could think of that he might require. I've cared for him as if he were my own child. Wherever I go, I keep an eye out for things I think he'd enjoy. And I never hesitate to spend money on him.

However, I need to change all his bad behavior. I love him just the way he is, but that doesn't mean I should let him remain unchanged. His behavior could annoy people, and they might end up disliking him, and by extension, me. I've tried training him extensively. I've read books, watched YouTube videos, and read countless articles on how to train dogs. I've used every method I could gather. Many things have improved, so I haven't been a complete failure. But he continues to make the same mistakes again and again, despite my efforts. It's been almost three months, and I find myself dealing with the same issues repeatedly.

So, I think to myself, I love him, but if he continues to engage in behaviors like peeing under the bed or chewing my pillow, it will hurt me and make me angry as long as he's with me. This makes me feel like giving up on him. However, when I consider giving him up, I have no idea what the next owner might do to him given these unchangeable behaviors. They might end up causing him harm. Yet, the fact that he's shown even a slight amount of improvement gives me a glimmer of hope. Every morning, I wake up pondering whether I should give up or give it another shot. I've reached a point where I don't know when to quit because of my love for this dog.

So, there are moments when you might believe you're investing time in something that appears impossible. I'm not saying "don't give up," but rather, when hope seems fleeting, go for it even if you genuinely think you'll eventually surrender. The outcome may not always align with your initial hopes, but you can take solace in knowing that you made the effort. Ultimately, love is the only thing that truly matters.