“That was the first time I had taken her out. Life got busy with the farm and after the children were born, we really didn’t have any time for ourselves. All the time went into working to make a living and to send the children to school. So one day I decided to take her out. After all she was my life partner. She was very happy that day because we were going to a new place and doing something fun. I remember she put on a nice dress and we went to the carnival in Kathmandu. That day I saw a different side of her. She laughed with complete abandonment. And that day I remember I felt really happy. Because she was happy. But everything, our time together was short-lived. The earthquake had no mercy. I know I have to be strong for my children, but sometimes I can’t. And I run to the corner to wipe my tears. I still can hear her laughing just like she had laughed at the carnival.” (Bhakta Bahadur Magar, Ghumthang 7, Sindhupalchowk)