Each card is a small celebration of our family’s creativity and a reminder that the most meaningful gifts are often the ones made by hand, with love—and a little bit of glitter.

Lancaster, with its rolling fields and welcoming spirit, became the perfect backdrop for a weekend that was all about family, shared stories, and simple joys.

After eight years of marriage, two children, and a global pandemic, I finally visited my husband’s hometown—Calcutta in West Bengal. Until then, my knowledge of the state was limited to stories, family anecdotes, and, embarrassingly, a stack of library books I checked out before our trip. My husband laughed at my enthusiasm—“Who needs a travel guide for their own hometown?”—but I was determined to see Bengal with fresh eyes.

When I reflect on the women in my family, I see a living tapestry woven from hardiness, grit, culture, and humility—qualities that have quietly shaped three generations of Bansal women.

Spring has a way of nudging us to open the windows, shake off the dust, and take a closer look at the spaces we live in. For many, spring cleaning isn’t just about scrubbing floors or rearranging shelves—it’s about hitting the reset button. In a way, it’s a lot like giving your body a detox: clearing out what’s no longer serving you, making room for what matters, and setting yourself up for a healthier, lighter season ahead.

Since 2022, I've had the privilege of volunteering with Remote Area Medical (RAM) at their eye clinics across rural Virginia. From the rolling hills of Fisherville to the quaint towns of Emporia, Luray, and Cumberland, these experiences have been incredibly rewarding.

Spring break in Panama was nothing short of magical. Traveling with family, we embarked on an unforgettable journey that blended modern marvels with historic charm, all while basking in the vibrant culture and natural beauty of this Central American gem.

Gardening is more than just a hobby; it’s a journey of nurturing life, connecting with nature, and creating cherished memories. For me, it’s a partnership with Mother Nature, where she lends her quiet guidance as I dig, plant, and grow.

My interest in gardening has been shaped by reading blogs, exploring websites, and learning from family and friends who have cultivated their own backyard patches and vegetable gardens. There’s something magical about the process—imagining plump tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant herbs as you plant seeds in the soil. The aroma of scallions and the sight of tiny green shoots breaking through the earth bring a sense of accomplishment and joy.

Holi, the festival of colors, is a celebration of joy, togetherness, and the arrival of spring. Traditionally celebrated in India, Holi has found its way into backyards across North America, where families recreate the vibrant festivities on a smaller scale.

As an author and an ophthalmologist, I often find myself reflecting on the parallels between these two seemingly different worlds. At their core, both professions are about vision—whether it’s the literal vision of a patient or the imaginative vision of an author crafting a story.

Gatherings are an intrinsic part of human nature. Whether it’s a family reunion, a celebration, a success party, or a professional conference, these moments bring us together to share, learn, and grow.

The masala dabba, or spice box, is a quintessential part of every Indian kitchen - a symbol of tradition, creativity, and the flavors that define our meals. My masala dabba, however, tells two stories: one rooted in tradition and the other embracing modernity.