That was all of 15 folks who were creating enough of chaos and din in my uncle’s house. Of all the living relatives I have left, he was -without an iota of doubt – the most influential when I was growing up and deeply revered by all in our family even today. Also, Sharmila’s most favorite person from the Roy side.

His three kids, two of their spouses, two grandkids, one great grandkid and then, from his sister’s side (that would be my mom), there were my siblings and two of the spouses, my aunt and myself!

We simply had a blast. A houseful of it, in fact!

And then after everybody left, I hung back to talk for an hour more with him one on one getting caught up on some of our old memories and some family details.

For all the lack of interest I have developed in visiting India, every time I think of him, I do a double quick. I have no idea how many more times I will be able to see him. I miss him a lot.