So, the other day, Chhora asked me how old he would be tomorrow. I said, “Four.” Then he asked, “What about the day after tomorrow?” Again, I said, “Four.” He was relentless—”What about next week?” I replied, “Still four, until June 14.”
He was visibly upset, wondering why he’s always four years old and not five like his friends. This led to a mini tantrum about the unfairness of being perpetually four.
It reminded me of a similar conversation I had with Chhori when she was his age. She too went through this phase of wanting to grow up as quickly as possible, and it made me realize that all kids seem to go through this at some point.
Isn’t it funny how kids are in such a hurry to grow up? They don’t understand that we parents would sometimes love to pause time and keep them small for just a little longer.
Have you ever experienced this with your little ones, them wanting to grow up so fast? How do you handle it? I’d love to hear your stories!
Ever found yourself caught between two worlds, not quite sure where you truly belong? I think many of us can relate to that feeling, especially if you’ve been born in one country, spent part of your life there, and then moved to another to settle down. The sense of belonging can be incredibly confusing.
When I first came to Australia, I felt like I would go back home to Nepal one day. At that time, Nepal was home. But now, when I think about home, it’s Australia. You know that feeling you get when you reach home? It’s definitely Australia for me.
Nepali flag
I’ve touched on this topic before, but as I grow older and add kids to the mix, the complexity of it all only deepens. I’ve been living in Australia for over two decades now, which means I’ve spent more time here than in Nepal, where I was born. So, when people ask me if I’ll ever go back to Nepal to live, my answer is a straightforward “No.” This response often surprises people, as it comes out so easily and without hesitation. But it’s the truth.
My emotions and feelings about this are usually pretty black and white, and in this situation, “No” seemed like the obvious answer. There’s no need to be diplomatic or politically correct about it. Some people might get offended by my answer, while others are simply surprised. But how can I be true to myself if I say “Yes” when I know in my heart that it’s “No”?
Australian Flag
Yet, there are moments when I question if I truly belong in Australia. Sometimes due to some people’s reaction to the the colour of my skin I feel a pinch in my heart. I occasionally find myself not getting the humour, which can make me feel like an outsider.
If you ask my Chhori (daughter), she’ll say I’m Nepali and she’s Australian. That’s the general perception people have of us. But then, when I visit Nepal, everyone tells me I’m more Aussie than Nepali because of the way I think, talk, and view life. This contrast only adds to the confusion as I grow older.
The concept of belonging is complex and personal. For me, Australia is home now. It’s where I’ve built my life, my family, and my future. That doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten Nepal or that it doesn’t hold a special place in my heart. It always will. But when it comes to where I belong, where I feel most at home, it’s undeniably Australia. And that’s okay. Each of us has our own journey and our own definition of home.
I think one of the main reasons for starting this blog was because of this same feeling. I want to connect with people in similar situations. As the world gets smaller and we travel and migrate more, sharing how we feel will help us stay grounded and feel like we are not alone in this complicated world.
If you’re in a similar situation, tell me how you feel. How do you manage your emotions? How do you find contentment amidst the confusion? Sharing our experiences might help us all feel a little more at ease in our chosen homes.
Can I start by saying I’ve really missed writing and sharing my life here with you all…
It’s been 1916 days since I last posted, but I’m thrilled to see that over the past five years, many of you have continued to visit my blog, reading, commenting, and liking my old posts. Thank you so much ♥️♥️♥️
In this age of TikTok and Instagram, I sometimes wonder how people perceive reading blogs. But I’ve got so many thoughts and experiences to share that I can’t keep them to myself.
So, here I am, continuing what I started so long ago. I plan to share stories of my life filled with chaos and happiness, my journey as a mum, and my life as a Nepali Australian.
I’ll also be updating you all on what’s happened in my life over the last five years. There has been so much change and growth, and I can’t wait to let you all in on it.
I hope some of you will continue to love and support my blog as you have in the past.
By any miracle if you’re reading this, please say hello to encourage me.
Another year has gone by so quickly and our dear Chhori is turning 4 today.
Dear Chhori,
The day you were born was the greatest moment of our life. We never knew we could love something so tiny so much, but the day you came into our life we were overwhelmed by all the love we had for you.
Watching you grow up has been such a joy, and we know that only greatness lies ahead for you. May your birthday be just as spectacular as you are.
nepaliaustralian 