Holidays

It is a lovely word that gets an instant smile on our face whether we are students, teachers, professionals or homemakers. Holidays imply a freedom from the usual routine, a time to enjoy and relax, a time to catch up on all things we are passionate about-reading, horse riding, swimming, travelling or just sleeping.

The best thing about holidays is that for once, no one is after you with the proverbial stick! It might not be complete freedom but it is a welcome break from a hectic lifestyle. The best years of my life were when I was in school and those holidays were by far the best. I would wake up an hour late (for my father, that was a huge sacrifice!) and after ablutions eat a wholesome breakfast during which I would leisurely plan the day. I would spend time with my friends and on one odd day eat with her or get her home. We even had occasional sleepovers that were a lot of fun. The afternoons were spent reading and listening to music on my walkman (I- pods were unheard of then) or watching TV. At four, our mother used to give us delightful cold coffee and cake or biscuits. This was followed by long walks with friends, maybe a movie. In fact, we were into scary movies which we managed to watch with special permission! The holidays would pass thus, till the last two days when the worries of the holiday homework would set in. On some holidays, we would go to my grandparents in Kerala which was unadulterated fun.

The best thing about holidays is that it brightens up the poor and the rich, the young and the old, the working and the non-working alike. A big Hurrah for the holidays!