Raised There, Growing Here.

Nine months ago, I left one home to build another.

India is where I grew up surrounded by family, friends, and the sweet little rituals that made every moment special. One of those rituals was dessert. Whether it was hunting for the perfect chocolate pastry or finding a new café, desserts were always a shared experience especially with my sister. We’d explore dessert spots, try new flavors, and always end with our favorite: paan. That post-meal bite, whether classic or chocolate-coated, was more than just a taste it was tradition, comfort, joy.

Now, in Philadelphia, I'm creating new rituals. Here, dessert is still my happy place but the experience is different. Sometimes I explore the city alone, soaking in the charm of each cozy café or dessert counter. Other times, I go out with the few close friends I've made here people who now know that my absolute favorite treat in this city is Kiwi Yogurt.

I don’t even know how to explain what Kiwi Yogurt means to me. Maybe it’s the freedom to build your own bowl exactly how you want. Maybe it’s the thrill of creating a new combination each time. Or maybe, it’s just the comfort of something sweet after a long day. Whatever it is, I’m completely in love with it.Just like paan was a little celebration back home, Kiwi Yogurt has become my little celebration here.

There’s something really special about finding that kind of joy again even in a different place, even when you're far from home. And the people close to me here know: if I ever look a little tired or overwhelmed, just say "Let’s go to Kiwi," and I’m already smiling.

🍧 My Signature Kiwi Yogurt Bowl

Ingredients:

• A swirl of vanilla and fudge chocolate frozen yogurt

• Fresh strawberries

• Crushed Oreos

• A warm drizzle of hot fudge

• Brownie bites (optional but highly recommended!)

• Sometimes blueberries and cheesecake cubes

• How I do it: Grab a cup, start swirling, pile on the toppings, drizzle that hot fudge, and take the first bite with a full heart.

  
  

Back in India, I never thought I could enjoy dessert without sharing it with someone. It was always me and my sister or friends, laughing, talking, and deciding who would try what. But here in Philly, I’ve started doing that for myself taking myself out, discovering little cafés and sweet spots, finding comfort in solo time.

Sometimes it’s lonely. But sometimes… it feels like growth. Like I’m becoming someone I’m proud of someone who still loves paan, who now loves Kiwi Yogurt, and who’s finding joy in new places and new people while still carrying the flavors of home.

If you’ve never had paan before I’m attaching a photo! It’s beautiful, just like the feeling it gives.And here in Philly, Kiwi Yogurt is my paan a little piece of happiness I keep coming back to.

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