By Spriha Pandey
Winter blues can be melted away with mashed potatoes and mouth-melting cheese! Winter vacations have always been special for me, bringing lots of love, joy, and laughter. Each winter break gives me several memories to cherish for a very long time. Every time, I have ample plans for this refreshing break, eagerly anticipating the holidays as I indulge in a lot of fun during these days.
This year, we planned a visit to Nashik. Road trips are the best way to explore our Incredible India. On the way, we were greeted by the scenic beauty of local villages, lush green mountains, calm rivers – Godavari and Kaveri, and different varieties of trees. They were just right to refresh our minds and remind us of the bounties of nature. Such beautiful and relaxing trips help us take a break from our daily busy routine. Once we reached our destination, we explored the nearby locations, including the famous Trimbakeshwar temple – one of the twelve jyotirlingas as per Vedas. The temple, carved beautifully from a single rock, left me astonished. The idol of Lord Shiva was the main attraction, displayed on LED screens so that each devotee could see it clearly. Despite the wait, seeing the marvelous idol was worth it.
On the way back, we stopped to visit the famous vineyards, as grapes and vineyards are specialties of Nashik city. Despite the tiny and unripe grapes, we enjoyed the beauty of Nashik, making loads of memories together as a family.
Returning home, we had a wonderful surprise waiting for us – close cousins and grandparents were about to visit. After a long wait, they were finally at our place. We spent quality family time, watched a movie, and had unforgettable fun. The next day, we visited the dog park nearby, enjoying time with the dogs and the sunset with our grandparents. Their unconditional love and the homegrown guavas from our farm made the time special. Saying goodbye was tough, but they left with a promise to meet soon.
Feeling a bit low after their departure, I engaged myself with music, fulfilling my desire to learn new things by joining a guitar class. Music proved to be refreshing, and soon I learned to play a few songs. Alongside the fun, I also focused on preparing for the upcoming exams.
The most awaited festival of the year, Christmas, arrived. Preparations began with decorating the Christmas tree and making plum cakes. The entire building lit up with excitement as we awaited Santa and exchanged presents. This year, my father was my Santa, giving me memorable moments in the form of photos from Nashik and our family gatherings. In return, I offered the sweet dishes I had prepared for him.
As the New Year approached, my school reopening loomed, marking the end of these winter holidays, filled with great surprises and unforgettable moments.