twinks in bloom

Mentally already on vacation, physically still in chaos

It’s only been seven months since we last met. Just seven. But why does it feel like a lifetime away? I miss my idiot friends so much. Life’s been on full speed—deadlines, work emails, calls at odd hours, pretending to be adults who have everything under control. We were all so caught up in our professional lives, until one random text from across the ocean changed everything.

The one friend who moved abroad messaged saying she’s coming home and wanted to spend time with all of us. She wasn’t expecting much—maybe a casual meet-up, some catching up if we happened to be free. What she didn’t expect? That all of us would agree. No questions asked. Different cities, crazy schedules, overworked souls… and yet, we made it happen. Maybe that’s what real friendship looks like. A spontaneous plan made in a group chat that, against all odds, actually becomes reality.

Destination? Bangalore. Ironically, the city where most of them actually work. But this time, we’re going to vacation there. No laptops, no meetings. Just vibes.

We’ve got it all sorted—sunrise at Nandi Hills, a little detour to Hogenakkal Falls, one chaotic clubbing night (that we’ll likely regret the morning after), some dreamy brunches at aesthetic cafés, and, of course, hundreds of photos in between. It all sounds perfect.

Until I remember the real challenge: the wardrobe.

Packing for a trip is the actual boss battle. The internal crisis of “what if it rains” versus “what if we spontaneously decide to dress like K-drama characters.” The anxiety of planning outfits for every mood, every location, every unexpected photo op. Overthinking every top, every dress, every accessory. Carrying five extra outfits “just in case” and still feeling like you have nothing to wear.

The countdown is on—two weeks to go—and I am already sweating just thinking about what I might need. Hair appointments are getting booked. Nail extensions, spa treatments, that one emergency shopping trip that was totally “just for essentials” but turned into a mini fashion haul. Pinterest boards are open. Screenshots are being saved at 2 a.m. I’m spiraling… but also kind of loving it.

Because in all this madness—every overthought outfit, every tiny panic attack over a missing earring—there’s a quiet joy. The joy of anticipation. Of knowing I’ll be with the people who know me best. That the stories we’ll create are going to live in our group chat forever. That maybe we’ll cry, maybe we’ll dance too hard, maybe we’ll forget to click enough pictures… but we’ll be together.

And really, the chaos before the trip? That’s half the fun.

I’m not packed yet. But in my heart? I’m already there.