Disclaimer: I am not sure that I am fully eligible to comment on this topic as I have only 2 kids. However I follow a lot of European and American moms, who have multiple (read 4 and more) kids and I have found them sharing this common thought. So here I am, sharing how I am a different mother to my two daughters.

The impetus for this post comes from the fact that my little one just turned 6. I still can't believe as she's the baby of the family even now, and I am unsure how long this will continue. I am almost a completely different person to both of them, and here's how.

I am way more lenient with her than I am with my elder one. Mohi, my first born's primary complaint with me is that I am not strict with her sister enough. I agree totally as I bend my rules to my fullest capacity for the little one while for Mohi, it's never that way. 

I am more patient. I had been an angry mom with Mohi, not just because she drives me crazy but because I have always had less patience for her. The fact is that motherhood teaches you patience like nothing else. It's being mom to her taught me to be immensely patient, and that is being milked by Mishi. 

I have less energy. Maybe because I had Mohi at 25 and Mishi at 30. 5 years is a considerable amount of time to get drained, especially as a mom. The amount of efforts I have spent (and still do) on Mohi, is nothing that I do for Mishi. I had parents of older kids teasing me on the same, when I used to make out of the box crafts and other stuff for school for Mohi.

I have lower expectations. Maybe because I don't put so much effort on her. Whether it's creating worksheets or excelling in school projects, cooking special meals or buying top things, I have done nothing for my little one. My entire reserve of time and energy gets spent on my elder one. Mishi thrives on hand me downs of her sister, modest school projects and is an average performer. And I am not bothered by it.

She's more like a cuddly toy for me while my elder one is a project. One can't have a favourite child but sometimes I feel that I love Mishi more. Maybe because I am constantly guilty that I don't do enough for her. Or maybe she's too cute and irresistible. I look at her tiny face (even at 6 years) and feel that she deserves so much more from me. And that engulfs me with accountability and I coddle her even more. This really angers Mohi and she starts behaving madly, which in turn angers me and it's a vicious cycle. While Mishi watches us fighting from a corner and then runs to me and hugs me and says I love you mumma.

Motherhood baffles me every single day!

As you all must have guessed by now, it was a Paw Patrol party. My kids have been obsessed with these pups forever and this year we decided on embracing them. The theme was red and blue and we all were endorsing either Chase or Marshall. IYKYK. 😀

For the first time, Mishi had so many of her classmates joining her party. The previous years, mostly had our family friends.

The party was a huge success (sigh of relief). We played Tambola and many other games, there were stellar performances and I cooked a storm (which everyone loved thankfully.)

The first function of the year checked off from the list, next would be Mohi's birthday party. Wish me luck!

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.

 20 Foreign Getaways from India That Won’t Break the Bank!

Traveling internationally doesn’t have to be pricey. For those who enjoy traveling on a budget, several countries give an enriching experience without making a hole in your pocket. So from cultural pursuits to natural wonders, here’s a curated list of affordable overseas spots to consider for your next trip from India.

1. Thailand

It is among the most preferred destinations for Indian travellers as it is economical and has numerous attractions. Whether you are drawn to the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the beautiful beaches of Phuket, or the rich culture of Chiang Mai, Thailand truly has it all. You also get street food and public transport at lower costs.

2. Sri Lanka

A quick flight from India, Sri Lanka is a land of rolling tea plantations, golden beaches and ancient temples. Colombo is urban, Kandy is cultural and Galle is colonial. Communal buses and low-cost cabs keep travel affordable.

3. Nepal

Nepal is a paradise for adventure lovers and seekers, making it the ultimate vacation destination. The best of such experiences include trekking in the Himalayas, visiting temples in Kathmandu and boating in Pokhara. No visa requirements and a low cost of living work in favour of Indian travellers.

4. Vietnam

Historical monuments, colorful urban life, and picturesque scenery, all await in Vietnam. Highlights include Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ha Long Bay cruises and Ho Chi Minh’s war museums. Street food and hostels put it among the cheapest places in the world.

5. Cambodia

Cambodia is known for its stunning Angkor Wat, busy markets, and tranquil countryside. Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace, Siem Reap temples and Kampot’s riverside charm offers a magical ambiance. Low-cost lodging and inexpensive local fares are additional attractions.

6. Indonesia

From Bali’s beaches to Java’s volcano hikes, Indonesia’s islands are as diverse as its population. Yogyakarta is steeped in history while Jakarta is a big city experience. Indonesia is a haven for budget travelers, offering cheap guesthouses, public transport and street food.

7. Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is home to the dreamy beaches of Langkawi and the culturally rich island of Penang. Public transport runs efficiently, and inexpensive local street food is abundant and delicious. Cheap hotels are available in plenty.

8. Dubai, UAE

While globally Dubai may be known to be luxurious, it does come with budget options as well. It can be cheap, with plenty of free attractions like the Dubai Fountain, souk-hopping and public beaches. There are several travel agents that provide cheap Dubai tour packages from India. 

9. Turkey

In Turkey, you can find rich culture and wonderful views as well as great food. The mosques of Istanbul, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia and thermal pools of Pamukkale help make it a great destination. Cheap places to stay and public transport help keep spending less.

10. Egypt

Then you have Egypt, home of the jaw dropping Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Nile River. Travelers can visit ancient temples, sail the Nile and chill out at Red Sea resorts. It's also a great budget destination, with cheap hostels and street food.

11. Bhutan

Bhutan, full of monasteries and fortresses and trekking routes, is quieter than most and a fine place to retreat. Bhutan culture and traditions are reflected in Paro and Thimphu. As there are no visa requirements, it is an economic and unique destination for Indian travelers.

12. Oman

Known for the desert, forts, and coast the highlights include Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Nizwa’s old market and a Wahiba Sands desert safari. Budget hotels, and local transport, help to keep travel costs down.

13. Kenya

Kenya is a wildlife lover’s paradise with budget safaris in national parks like Maasai Mara. Nairobi’s museums, coastal cities such as Mombasa and the trekking trails below Mount Kenya round out the experience. It is affordable, thanks to budget lodges and public transport.

14. Armenia

It is a hidden gem with ancient monasteries, quaint old towns, and scenic landscapes. With Yerevan’s museums, Lake Sevan’s beauty and Dilijan’s hiking trails, it’s an exciting and affordable budget friendly destinations. Hostels and public transport don’t break the bank.

15. Philippines

With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines has beautiful beaches, adventure sports and colorful cities. Palawan’s beaches, Cebu’s diving sites and Manila’s historic sights draw budget travelers. Local transport and guesthouses are cheap.

16. Laos

Laos is one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia. With a laid-back vibe, scenic Mekong River and historical temples, Luang Prabang is a great foreign destinations to travel from India . Hostels, local buses and street food all help keep costs down.

17. Myanmar

The vibrant capital city offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment that attracts millions each year. Visitors flock to Bagan’s pagodas, Inle Lake’s floating villages, and Yangon’s colonial streets. Myanmar is inexpensive if you stick with local food and guesthouses.

18. Maldives

Though known for luxury resorts, Maldives has guest houses for a budget on local islands. With snorkeling, diving, and walking on white sandy beaches, this country is one for the dream vacation without going into debt. Public ferries are the cheapest way to go.

19. Seychelles

One of the most impressive paradises of the world is Seychelles, with all its clear blue waters and finest islands. Resorts tend to be on the pricier side, but budget travelers can stay at guesthouses and take local buses. Beaches and hiking trails are mostly free.

20. South Africa

South Africa boasts everything from the table mountain of Cape Town and the wildlife of Kruger National Park to the pretty coastal views along the Garden Route. It’s a budget-friendly place, thanks to a favorable exchange rate and budget accommodations.

Conclusion

It’s not always necessary to spend big bucks to go to international destinations. Without going much overboard on the expenditure, Indian travelers can definitely explore plenty of places on the map. The bustling markets of Vietnam, the ancient wonders of Egypt and the beautiful landscapes of Nepal all offer experiences at incredibly affordable prices. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, history or beaches, there’s a destination for every type of traveler who wants to explore the world without emptying your wallet.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.