"What do you want to have for the breakfast, children?" I asked from the verandah of the kitchen.

My grandchildren were playing in the courtyard under the mango tree.

"Pesarattu with Allam Pachchadi!" shouted Karthikeya.

I quickly opened the refrigerator to see if the batter was available. Left a sigh of relief when I realised it was there - I make it a point to be ready with all the batters when children come down for holidays. You never know when their expectations change!

"Done!" I said in a loud voice as if I was equally excited. Karthikeya was visibly happy. Gargi was happy too. It was Shruti and Maitreyi who wanted something else.

"No, let us try something else" mumbled Shruti. But that was audible to me.

"So, what else then?" I asked.

After a little murmur, the two girls decided to have Idly and Wada. Gargi was happy with this choice too! Realising that his only 'big' support is slipping, Karthikeya began to plead with Gargi. But in a short while, he realised that it was going to be a lost battle, so said "I would agree for Idly and Wada only if you serve with Allam Pachchadi".

The girls agreed and everyone went back to their fun while I walked back to the Kitchen, Gargi followed me. I said to her, "See how versatile Allam Pachchadi is, You could have it with literally any South Indian breakfast and any dal item".

"I can have it with sandwiches too!" Gargi said with a gleeful smile.

"Yes, dear you can have it with anything", I gave her a peck and began my work.