The Summer They Grew Up A Little - By Anisha Bhojwani

by Klick Founder July 13, 2025

by Klick Founder Published on July 13, 2025Updated on September 14, 2026

– By Anisha Bhojwani

What I saw when I slowed down and really watched them.

Two weeks, two countries, two kids - and a summer I’ll never forget.

We started in Bali, celebrating my dad’s 70th with sunshine, long dinners, and the kind of family time that fills your cup. With my brother and sister living far away, it felt so special to all be in one place - sharing stories, meals, and those rare, quiet moments when everyone’s just there.

The family on an evening walk — mum, dad, their daughter and their little boy on dad's arm.

Packing for Bali & Greece was its own adventure - because how do two tiny humans need this much stuff? Nappies, swim diapers, snacks, three changes of clothes a day (minimum), and a whole toy collection for Zayn. Needless to say, we have arrived back 3 toy cars lighter & 2 pacifiers down.

The family in the pool together, flowers and greenery behind them.

A birthday moment at the table — the two children on their mum's lap, dad leaning in behind.

A chocolate birthday cake with cherries, iced “Happy Birthday Anisha”.

Brother and sister playing together in a shallow pool with a toy float.

Dad lifting the little one high out of the pool, water splashing everywhere.

Zayn, now 1, reminded me just how different this stage is. He’s been more clingy, needed more attention, and barely ate some days. Somehow the guy found his love for Asian food on the last day and started devouring ramen & dumplings, to my relief! Oh another Zayn moment was landing in Bali, when he peed on me. Of course. Pro mama tip: always pack a change of clothes - for you, not just the baby.

Then came Greece, and things softened. Routines relaxed. I started noticing the shifts - Ziya becoming more independent, Zayn settling into the rhythm. I’ll never forget watching them giggle in the splash pool, chase cats, or seeing Ziya gently place a sunhat on her baby brother’s head.

I’ve been so proud of how at ease they’ve both become in the water. Ziya dove in with fearless joy, while Zayn, cautious but curious, slowly splashed his way to confidence. We gave them small responsibilities - carrying their own bags, keeping track of their things—and they truly rose to it.

Watching these moments unfold reminded me to slow down too. We stepped away from screens and let the days stretch - watching waves, collecting shells, building castles.
We came home with sandy shoes, sun-kissed skin, and a mountain of laundry—but also, a summer of memories I’ll never stop holding onto.