The Menons in 2025

And then there were three! For many years, family for us meant Bambi, Yash, Chitra and me. We planned everything around the four of us, food, vacations, time away from home, birthdays, gifts, well you get the point…everything! So, on July 11th, when we said goodbye to Bambi, it altered all our lives. This letter is going to focus on Bambi and other moments from 2025.

Bambi

Before my family begins to share their year, I want to start with my last annual note. I was fortunate to live life like a king, say goodbye like a king and I continue to live like a king. Socks, Snickers, and MJ are here with me and there is freedom like you cannot imagine. We have squirrels, birds, lush meadows and no cars! I continue to chase squirrels but it is all fun and games. No one discriminates, no politics to divide us, no social media to distract and fewer humans who only share love.

Dad, mom and Yash…I would like you to only remember me at my best. Ok now, I need to rush, my friends are calling me for a game of tag. See ya later, earthling suckers!

Yash

Still remember the first day Bambi came home as a “guest”, I got to sit next to him and pet him. When he had to go back home, my mom asked me if I wanted to walk him around our cul-de-sac. That moment stays with me, because it sparked the feeling of being a big brother. I lived 12 years of my life with him and I miss my little brother.

This year has been dotted with many firsts…got my car driving license, successfully completed my motorcycle safety training, witnessed bureaucracy in the DMV for getting my motorcycle riding license, earned my first paycheck, bought my first car, bought my first motorcycle, had my first motorcycle accident, took my first ride in an ambulance, and recently got my first black eye!! Now, that seems like an exciting year. My parents insist I mention, that academically I am doing well and was the JV2 divisional wrestling champ for 165 pounds. Alright, now to more exciting stuff!

Chitra

When both the trouble makers were away from the house, it was just Bambi and me. I used to sit in the sunroom or in the patio planning my yoga class. Bambi, next to my feet, used to rest his body by my feet or on my lap. He would be at peace and would take a deep sigh with his entire body just easing into the moment. I miss his deep sighs, but feel his presence all around.

It has been my turn to watch my mom’s health deteriorate and all I can offer is comfort, visits to India and a patient ear. I have been determined to complete my 500 hour teacher training and made good progress. My yoga community has grown and I thrive in that energy. Hosting an annual yoga gathering is getting to be a tradition that I stress about but also love. We celebrated Suresh’s 50th birthday and I was happy to host some of his dearest people. I think the best gift I gave him, was nudging him into a Vipassana course. Many may think and few say, it was a gift for me…nooooo, never!!?? 😉

Suresh

Rain, snow, polar vortex, or late night out, there was always discipline in my morning routine to walk Bambi. His collar tags would jingle and he would shake his entire body. “Come on dad, let’s go!” That discipline is gone and I miss my boy!

Sitting in the same motorcycle training class with Yash and beating him in both the road and written test is a flex I will never let go. When both Chitra and I had cold feet about our decision to say good bye to Bambi, watching Yash lead us to the right decision was an eye opener. It was an equally revealing moment when Yash treated us to the movies with his own money…only to realize he was buying the tickets and I still had to shell out for the popcorn, which just happened to be double what he spent. Lastly from not being able to meditate or sit quiet for 10 minutes, to then successfully completing the 10-day Vipassana course is something I am proud of. 

Sharing the Menon family love

2025 was bitter sweet and a reflection of life. Here’s wishing you and your loved ones, many memorable ‘firsts’, ‘determination’ for your goals and ‘people’ who wish you the best. Have a healthy and memorable 2026!

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PAST ANNUAL LETTERS

2024

2023

2022

2021