Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Merry Christmas

Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells,
Jingle all the way!
Oh, what fun it is to ride
In a one-horse open sleigh.



Its Christmas time again. Ahh i can already smell so many things. The air is filled with the aroma of cakes and pastries and it's party time folks... The crammed shopping malls trying to entice the shoppers with the huge discounts, the glittering Christmas trees, the biting cold adding its own touch to this festive season cumulatively makes up for the season. But what really makes my adrenaline groove are the amazing cakes at the shop. Even though not a die hard fan of sweets yet cakes somehow melts my heart. The glitters, the shapes, the various flavors, the cookies and and and what not. My love for cake is eternal even though i am yet to master the art of baking a perfect one.

Apart from my love for cakes what really makes me happy when i see excited people doing shopping for their loved ones. The smile on their faces especially when they are able to purchase some goodies which their beloved ones they think would love it. Perhaps that's the reason they say face is the index of mind!!! Children running after their parents for their favorite toys, little girls clinging to the dolls while their mummy is busy checking the latest cosmetics and the offered discounts and their fathers checking the latest gadgets. Everyone wants the best deal and the best possible gifts. The elderly people helping each other for buying goodies. The families carrying a Christmas tree home. This tree is not merely a tree but a huge tree of happiness which the family members lovingly decorate.The evenings are equally colorful with people having brightly enhanced their houses with lights and other embellishments.

Unlike lots of people across the globe who are waiting for Santa to fulfill their secret wishes even i am waiting for Santa... Hope he is listening to my wish/wishes. Greedy people like me can't have just one wish...ha ha ha. But i promise him i will be happy with whatever he gives me. Lol!!!! Making a wish isn't bad or injurious to health but what we should bear in our mind is that we shouldn't expect that all our wishes will be heard and fulfilled. Limiting our expectations will be helpful for ourselves.

Let's celebrate this wonderful time of the year with the big word 'forgiveness' besides all other things. Lets not carry any grudges to next year. It will just increase our burden. Let's soak ourselves in this festive season and let love and good wishes follow us everywhere.Wishing everyone a HAPPY CHRISTMAS and a wonderful HAPPY NEW YEAR. God bless all.....


Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Cloudburst

The rain is beating hard on my window panes from i am trying to catch a glimpse of the road below. The cars are moving slowly and the car wipers are struggling with their job. Despite the strong rain, the wind is carrying the aroma of the fresh cookies or cakes from the nearby bakery and quite frankly i just love whenever i get a whiff of that. I quickly roll down my window so that the heavy rain drops do not drench my stuff. Am i missing something? Yes, yes, a cup of hot latte or a bowl of my favorite tomato soup. Well, getting the former was easier for me. Even though my heart was yearning for a fresh cookie or a brownie the rain and the wind stopped me.

My next task was to expunge those emails which were inessential.Spams, spams and more spams. Gosh, i must have forgotten them and they were happily residing in my mail box for quite sometime. Now, u will have to leave and give my inbox some breathing space. Outside the rain is getting harder. Among those deleted emails there was one email which was sent perhaps from any children's organization asking for help for those lesser fortunate ones. There was also a site which led me to a series of pictures depicting those malnourished poverty stricken children. A child's face melts anyone's heart but if the face is of a distressed child we feel all the more. The site did not directly ask me for cash but tacitly mentioned about a helping hand. So i was all the more perplexed. I could have promptly deleted the email unlike the others but before deleting i wanted to check its authenticity. I tried and perhaps used my little internet skill of browsing to arrive at a conclusion but without result. Lastly i decided to delete the email.

I have deleted it then why do i think about it and write a blog of two hundred words? Perhaps the images of those children have stuck with me. There will be perhaps very few people in this planet who aren't moved by the plight of distressed children. These children who have the equal rights unlike the others in their neighborhood are often the victims of those situations which we prefer not to discuss with our children at home. We feel discussing these would be hazardous to the tender minds and hearts of our children. But those poor little ones who are trapped in those dark world and yet smiling through their misfortunes? Do we really do or can do for those little ones? I know simply thinking is no solution and these words aren't going to help me either. At the moment all i can do is to pray to God. I think we all can do this if not anything. God bless and protect those...Amen...

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Old age

Someone told me today, "We are born as a child and we die as a child." Seated lackadaisical in moving car, i tried to ponder over the simple line. When we are born our parents apprehensively wait to take us around their arms, snuggle and experience those priceless moments. Those moments they cherish till their last breath. Our parents lovingly witness as each day we grow. Everyday, every moment, they almost breathe through us trying to inculcate all the possible virtues. Some we learn and some we ignore only to retaliate later.

But now the question about our parents gradually shifting back to childhood. Yes, as every bird leaves its nest and in search of food and survival, even we drift to make a living for ourselves.In the process of finding a living or settling down we are away from our sweet home. Our parents are left behind and we do not get to see them as often as possible. With time, with age they need our love and attention just they way we wanted as a child. Our pleas for for toys/dolls or sweets were often answered by our parents and when they grow old its time when we pamper them with all the love and affection that they require. No they do not want toys or sweets but they need our attention our helping hand.

Their wrinkled skins, trembling hands, forgetfulness are all symbolization of an 'old child'. That's how i like to put that. The flourishing old age homes are a silent testimony of the fact that we all are too busy to take care of them who have patiently brought us up. We are happy to be parents but unhappy to take care of our old parents. We fight with our children and forget but altercation with our parents leads to separation. We all happily like to remember our grandparents who used to pamper us with cookies and bed time stories then why deprive our children from that pleasure? I can apprehend a lot of us are victim of unfavorable circumstances wherein we cannot meet them frequently or are bound by some restrictions but we can make sure that we can give them a comfortable old age.Our parents laugh when we laugh and cry when we. So consider them not as family but as a part of 'you'.

As our car comes to halt at a grocery store, i step down quickly to fill my cart. I see an old couple happily coming out discussing about thanksgiving and trying to recollect if they have missed out something which their son loves to have. The old lady adjusting my spectacles wonders if her son's love for dessert has changed since as a child he used to love and she hasn't seen him in last one year. My heart fluttered for a while reminding me of my parents and i call them up only to be convinced by my mom that they had their food on time and they are well.

Its time folks we realize that how helpless our parents feel when we are not around them in their old age. They need a few loving words, a kind helping hand and the warmth of their families....They need 'U'....

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Wintry Winters..........

As a bright sunny day comes to an end and the weather department predicting rains tomorrow and for the upcoming days, i am kinda getting mixed feelings. Winters are all over. A brief stroll to the nearby mall has given me a perfect image that people have indeed pulled out all their wollens and are happily flaunting. The chill in the evening air has added more spirit to wearing those vibrant colors.

Winter season has always fascinated me. I remember my childhood days when my mother used to lovingly make those dishes which she found it difficult to make on summer days. The colorful veggies, the rolls, the deep fried stuff which i still savor and pine for. This particular season always holds a soft corner in my heart which is inexplicable. Sitting on a chair on a bright sunny winter day and peeling and sharing oranges with family is one such memory which is very close to my heart. The family get togethers comprising of family and close relatives, the occasional picnics, the elders of the family playing cards or debating over any current topic, and the kids creating hullabaloo running across are a part of those treasured memories. These are not the sole reasons for my eternal love for this season. There is always a strange magnetism between me and this season.

Lot of people do not appreciate winters. The trees wear a barren look. Your skin feels all the more stretched out and applying layers of moisturizing creams doesn't seem to help either.They coax this weather for curtailing their trips, heightening their allergies, inability to move freely minus any woolens and....and...and...You know it better than me. A kid recently said she hates winters because she has to wake early, wear those blazers and go to school. Well, i second her that in this regard. But all of us have been through these and we all want them to go through the same because until you go through austere circumstances you cannot be strong. If that little kid goes through these lines the next time she would think twice before saying that sweet 'hello' to me.

Well, much to your pleasure or displeasure this season of this year is here and we have to live our lives through this. Even if you have to go back to your old boring office/school/college or are excited about joining a new venture do not forget to wrap yourself properly before the winters hit you hard...Enjoy!!!!!

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Welcome Home Maa


Hurray...As Goddess Durga embarks on her short sojourn for her paternal home, her devotees all over the world are busy preparing for her short stay. Durga/Sati/Jaya/Bhavaani/Bhavya call her by any name but she is popularly known as 'Maa' to everyone. She is the ultimate power, the destroyer of sin and abettor of morality. In Sanskrit the name 'Durga' means 'the invincible' and she exemplifies power, strength, morality and protection. Hence Durga stands as a symbol of all the divine forces and she protects her children form all the negative aspects of life.

As a mother's love for her child is lucid, serene similarly Maa Durga loves all her children and protects them from adversities. As per mythology Goddess Durga is the epitome of energy, force, power and she was created to demolish a demon 'Mahishasura'. Upon conquering the demon she is also known as 'Mahishasurmardini'. Goddess Durga has hundred and eight names and her children can call her by any name, but perhaps 'Maa' is the easiest word for any child to address their mother.

It is also believed that the Goddess comes to her paternal home for three days along with her four children. Her home coming is celebration for her children who wait all throughout the year for her arrival. Celebration begin pretty much in advance. People buy new clothes, exchange gifts worship her for three days and forgetting all sorrows of life, immerse themselves in the three day long celebration. It's that time of the year when people try to forgive each other and worship the power. The fourth day is painful for her children as she leaves for her home which is believed to be 'Kailash'. With tears in eyes her children appeal and pray to her to take away all the evils along with her and leave peace behind. Another year of anticipation begins for her children before they can welcome her again on this earth.

Be a part of this stupendous celebration. Feel the divine power. For those people who are away form their homes, always remeber that you are away from your home and not from 'Maa". She is omnipresent.May Maa Durga bestow you and your family with peace, love and happiness always...Amen!!!!!

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Pangs of Separation

A friend of mine's world recently came crashing when her husband declared that he wanted a divorce form her. This came after a few cases of altercation between them even though she emphatically says that nothing major has happened between them. The couple is blessed with a two and half year old son and this unwanted decision came in the wake of their child's upcoming birthday. Initially my friend persuaded to amicably sort out their differences and even wondered if infidelity could be the cause but her thoughts were proven wrong. This wasn't a case of infidelity.

While many women in the world everyday live with the constant fear of infidelity, and in many cases they are they are true yet a larger community of women can hardly suspect their husbands. We all want 'our' lives and in the clash of a couple its the poor child who bears the brunt. As a corollary to this harsh truth the child often grows up neglecting or disparaging the institution of marriage. The tender mind of a child needs to be shaped with love and respect so that he too can give the same.In my friend's case the child may be too small to annotate his chaotic surrounding yet he deserves the love of both his mother and father.

There are perhaps many children who grow up in a tormented home, dividing their time between their parents. As a reparation to the lost time both the parent and the child want to enjoy every minute of their allotted time. Isn't it a bit unfair on the child's part who deserves all the time and love of his both the parents? Ahh, now you will tell me about your difference of opinion, tales of misunderstanding, career choices, different lifestyle, suspected stories or infidelity. Even though it becomes increasingly difficult to live with your partner who has cheated on you, yet the preferences of a child cannot be put on back burner. A couple makes a home and child completes a family, so how can the interest of a child be neglected when the home comes in a dilapidated state.

My friend's plight has certainly moved and forced me to think about her predicament and my mind is boggling with lots of questions. My heart goes out for her toddler and wish i could provide my shoulder to my friend...My request to all the couples who are considering this austere decision in their lives to contemplate about their children's interest. Join me in my prayer to God to grant my friend and many such couple who are facing this situation, the patience to walk through this crisis of her life....Amen!!!!!!

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Flower Power


As snappy breeze is flowing across my window where i have cuddled up in a chair, the laptop is all the more extending its warmth. It's been a mixed day and strangely i haven't spoken to anyone in the last couple of hours. Too many ideas are getting clogged so thought of channelizing my ideas and energy into something constructive. You may wonder what? I knew!!!!

Women mostly love flowers and i am no exception. So i decided to visit the local florists to check the stock. The mesmerizing fragrances and the blooming flowers caught my imagination. To me perhaps every flower was saying a story. The delicate petals, the velvety roses the soft and supple carnations, orchids and what not. For a few moments i got lost in my virtual paradise...

The weather outside is changing. Leaves are about to fall. In a few days from now the strong winds will ruthlessly wither all the leaves from the tree giving it a barren look. Everything will wear a plastic look and then perhaps flowers will will be the savior to cheer us....My mind was constantly fiddling with the flowers until i decided to buy a bunch of roses and an assorted bouquet. Without a word i paid for my purchases since the lady at the counter too did not utter a single word. As i walked towards my home, i tried hard to protect my tender flowers so that the winds do not rob the delicacy of my pretty flowers.

My next task was to arrange these flowers. What better way to spend my time. I tried a lot of styles as per my mood swings but none could appeal my senses. I let me imagination rule my mind and after a lot of dabbling completed my task. Well this wasn't certainly the first time that i bought flowers, but yes it was the very first time that i made a bouquet of my own rather than just placing the flowers in the vase. I know you might say, this isn't a herculean task but for an amateur it surely is.

Well my job didn't end here. I thought of exercising my photography skills (which according to my husband is nebulous) as a testimony of my hard work. If you ask me about job satisfaction it certainly relaxed my nerves. In life sometimes doing something just to maintain equanimity of life soothes our mind and senses. Trust me!!!!

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Janmasthami....


We all have probably heard about 'Janmasthami' which is widely celebrated in India. 'Janmastami' which is also commonly know as 'Krishnasthami', 'Gokulasthami', 'Sri Krishna Jayanti' and many such names. Its is said in Hindu scriptures that Lord Krishna has one hundred and eight names hence he is known by various names and so is his festival.

Janmasthami marks the birth of Lord Krishna who is said to be another form of Lord Vishnu, at midnight. According to Hindu mythology Lord Krishna was born to Princess Devaki and her husband Vasudeva but grew up at his foster parents Yasoda and Nanda's house. The birth of Lord Krishna marks the end of evil who exclusively took birth to end the evil reign of his maternal uncle and to free the people from his evil deeds. Hence till to date people observe 'Janmasthami' with great pompous.

In India this festival is almost celebrated at all the parts of the country. The people in Mumbai observe the 'Dahi Handi' with great fervor. The people of Mathura and Vrindavan too celebrate with pomp and splendor.

People observe fast on this day and offer their prayers to the lord. Various vegetarian delicacies are prepared and offered to the Almighty. The basic message of all the festivals is to spread love among mankind. Let us all be patient and compassionate towards to each other and let love and forgiveness rule our heats.

Happy Janmasthami to all...........

Monday, August 23, 2010

Maturity

While surfing the internet (which today for us is as normal as eating & sleeping) i came across an article which discussed in length about how mature women tend to behave. Well, it surely left me baffled as to how we change with time, environment and circumstances. I know you will say its obvious. Considering my age may be i found it a bit harsh to accept the comparison that some mature women are like books who need not be read but are like thought which can only be thought about.

The comparison between a man and a woman has been going on from the time immemorial. Now that when both the genders have started going to the moon we have become conscious of the fact that we equally need to respect each other. Respect comes naturally with age and deeds and in this regard maturity grows. Now how do we define a matured women? My answer cannot be a representative of the entire female clan but surely a certain percentage will surely agree with my views.

Maturity comes with handling situations, complications and the various predicaments of life. Problems are brain teasers which leaves us flummoxed and emotionally drained at times. But a mature handling helps us to ease our problems and gain a new perspective which seems invisible while in the midst of problems. At times problems are like quagmire where we easily slip into but a mature thinking can steer us away from drowning. To me maturity is handling your in laws tacitly, lovingly convincing your child to eat what he/she hates the most, assuring your self that you can lose your weight when you know its a Herculean task or keep on smiling even when you are in deep pain. Situations always helps us to grow. A teenager can be far matured than a lady in her late twenties. So depending upon circumstances and person to person can m,aturity be understood not by notion or judgment.

May be my perspective fails to refute you, but then at the end of the day these are my words, my thoughts which i just wanted to share with you. Your thoughts are welcome as well.... Cheers!!!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Web-tangle....

Hello there, off late lots of things in life have been keeping me hooked to the extent that i do not find time to visit my neighbors. Strange, ehhh!!! I know and if by chance you are a warm friendly candid person reading these lines i bet you wont have many good things to say about me. (Chuckles!!!) Such is the tenacity of the web world which almost keeps me glued to the extent that at times i miss my favorite serials which i myself find unbelievable...

Of course, my mother never fails to warn me about the damage that its gonna cause to my already poor eyesight but only to be followed by tumultuous discussion. The web world is such a huge platform where perhaps we all try to rediscover ourselves be it through the social sites where we discover our long lost friends, or floating our resume, portfolios, playing numerous games, blaring our opinion on any issue and what not. Irrespective of all the above mentioned good things, at times we fall prey to this world as well. We are cheated, fooled by fraudulent means and then perhaps we start cursing as to why this invention was made.

I know a lot of people will have their stories to share about how they were tricked to provide their personal details only to regret later. The irritating pop ups at each one of our screens at times deviates our minds from our works thus stepping towards the uncharted territory. Now you will tell me that there are ways to block those pop ups, but please spare a thought for those old aged people who use computers and internet to pay their bills which they find hard to pay standing in the queue or for playing some games. I recently came across an old man who otherwise looked sensible enough to handle internet and computers but made some unintentional error of entering his credit card number at some unreliable site only to receive a long receipt at his home after a few days for the purchase which he wasn't aware. Fortunately for him there were mentors who took some appropriate actions to stop further purchases.

We all have heard these stories from friend's friend or some one further than that, besides, reading about them in the newspaper & of course in the internet, yet at times we tend to get inadvertent.

As George Berkeley said, "It is natural for careless writers to run into faults they never think of". So my friend, look before you leap....

Friday, August 13, 2010

Good Living...

Good places, good food, good music what else one need to spend a weekend? I wouldn't dare say that about life. With the advancement of possibly everything our tastes in every sphere has changed. Weekdays are for neck breaking work whereas weekends are meant for chilling out. Now chilling out differs at different levels.

We have barbecues, pool parties, theme parties but just spare a thought for those unfortunate ones who cannot even manage two square meals a day.In the weekend we go to watch a movie and blare our verdict the next day or the same day at social sites but there are people who cannot even sit under the humble fan to beat the heat owing to shortage of electricity, yet who cares. We teach our children 'sharing is caring' but every time the other child tries to play with our child's ball or toy in the park we give a tight smile. Each one of us are madly running after good life, money, power but do we really care about wisdom? I certainly cannot render an opinion that would be the representative of the common population.

You may be wondering what exactly on earth am i referring to? Well, recently an advertisement to remove malnutrition and fight hunger triggered my interest to think about it. Even i am also aware of the fact that simply writing 1500 words isn't going help either but sharing my thoughts can surely help spread the message. The photographs of the malnourished children prompted to think twice each time i wanted to throw any food items. My childhood was spent listening to my parents who always advised not to waste any thing but i always let the wind carry those words along. Now when i have one or two gray strands i do realize what they exactly meant!!!!

Leading a good life is every person's dream but we can always in some way contribute for those unfortunate ones who aren't blessed with the things which we take for granted. Let no child ever go hungry to bed, let no child ever cry for some milk, let every child understand the importance and appreciate what he or she gets. Comparison leads to nowhere and contentment is like sustenance.

Well without getting didactic let me watch or read some more heart melting issues so that i too can learn some invaluable lessons from life. Till then enjoy your weekend!!!!

Monday, July 26, 2010

Memories....

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. Wow, what an excellent piece of thought. We all have memories some which we we love to cling and hold on to our heart and perhaps some which we bury them. With time even memories fade away yet there are memories which can never be deleted. Marriage, childbirth, our first job or salary which are life time experiences are those wonderful ones which always remain special and enriches our memories.

I miss my childhood days, my fun & frolic with my sibling and friends and those memories which makes me smile whenever i think of them. Not all memories are wonderful yet it is always better to eschew the sadistic ones. Bad memories in some cases leads to revenge, jealousy, resentment turning a person into covetous. We deliberately keep those memories fresh so that the pain caused by them reminds us to beat them & move ahead in life. Well condonation doesn't come easily. We terminate our relationships when bad memories adds fuel to the unwanted happenings in our life. Ask any mother about her childbirth and her eyes will sparkle but ask any couple who have been through tumultuous relationship the difference need not be stated.

As a wise man said always wear a smile who ever crosses your way because that may be the only smile he sees in the entire day. A smile serenades and adds to your good memories. Analyze yourself and ask how much good and bad memories you have about any given circumstances of life. The answer will perhaps help you to erase those unwanted ones and embrace life more gleefully...

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Foood for Thought

Ok, ok so a lot of people all over the world keep on emphasizing about health, fitness, diet food and doling out what to eat and what not. Now that the World Cup is over and you have accumulated a flab around your tummy munching those popcorn laced with butter and the so called diet sodas (which in fact do contain calories). You are coaxing yourself why did you let yourself have those sinful pastries at the recent party at your friends place. The wedding you recently attended must have surely allured you to dig at the lavish spreads. And now.....Of course u find your jeans a bit uncomfortable or your tummy tucked out a bit or your envious cheekbones camouflaged by some ounces.

Well, we all think so much about our diet these days. We want to eat but want to remain fit. Do they always go simultaneously? Only the lucky ones can afford to agree. The internet is flooded with articles and journals about diets, dietary food, crash diets and what not. The calorie conscious people perhaps scan every item they pick from the shelves of the grocery before they buy or have it. Not all of us have the will power to control our tongue. Our tongues are constantly tantalized by the butter cookies, pastries that we see or the juicy chicken that we find hard to resist. We have them without any panic only to crib later on. Lets not forget the vegetarian who like their share of veggie rolls, fries and dips loaded with fat and calories.

To possess good health is a blessing and to maintain that is our dedication. But lets not deprive ourselves from eating, munching which is also a joy in itself. Of course calorie conscious will frown if by chance they go through these lines. At times food acts a stress buster but in that process we tend to eat more which is unhealthy as well. I do not want to divulge deep regarding what should be consumed or what not but what i want to share is if you really love food never deprive yourself. Sometimes the real taste of life lies in food.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

I-ce-cream

Its been a while that i have really thought of writing something really concrete other than any plain vanilla topic. Vanilla, hmm it really used to be favorite amongst a lot of our friends. The concept of hot fudge wasn't really in so we always used to play safe either vanilla or strawberry. Once i was quite amused when in an ice cream parlor i saw in the menu card it was written 'ice cream brick'. My eyes began to roll wondering what possibly it could be and without even consulting anyone i ordered for it. My cousins were amused with my choice & waited with bated breath for my order to arrive.

Well, yes my order did arrive and as the waiter proceeded with my order everybody passed a sheepish smile and it caught the attention just like when our sizzlers arrive in a restaurant. Now brick was something i really i hadn't expected. It has a huge bar or a slab whatever you call it was enough to feed an army considering my age. I surreptitiously tried to hide my foolishness and my cousins tried all the possible ways to make me feel all the more miserable.

To mitigate the situation i asked all my cousins to bail me out of the situation who funnily suggested to get the remaining packed for home. Poor soul, i didn't even realise that by the time i reached home it would melt and it would be no better than a flavored milk shake. But their eccentric jokes on me & my ice cream didn't end and till to date it becomes a hot topic of discussion when ever we meet.

Days gone by, well some memories are so sweet that even we do not want part away with. But i confess i have certainly become more prudent while i order for my ice creams fearing the fact that history always repeats itself....

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Questionarrie

How often i feel i have so many questions suppressed in my heart? Perhaps a lot. Some whose answers i know but i do not want to acknowledge, some i fear to face & some i want to ask but do not the right people whom to ask. Am i being judgmental? Questions questions and so many.

Walking through this journey of life there have been numerous occasions when life asked me questions to which i perhaps answered efficiently & got awarded & some which i couldn't and still lagging behind in that arena. Its ironical that when we want something desperately it goes beyond our reach. You might be feeling i am talking about something virtual but not the case. When as a student our parents coaxed and cajoled us for doing something out of syllabus we never paid heed, now that i can manage some decent time for my own i do not get the opportunity to go ahead with my desires. Funny, i know. People do not the realize the difference between interest and necessity and poor fellows like us are the suffering end.

Every cloud has a silver lining and without sounding despondent i want to welcome every single moment of my life with equal fervor so that in the next decade my mind isn't flooded with so many questions.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Click Click...

I am quite amused by the photography passion which is slowly gripping everyone. All of a sudden people seem to be bitten the love for taking perfect clicks. We like to capture every moment, every movement and every little detail which our eyes can grab of. When we were younger even we saw beautiful flowers, mountains but never felt the necessity to share with the world. Our memories were enough to narrate to our friends and families. They could perhaps instantly read in our eyes and gauge our happiness.Thanks to the digital world, now even if a shot isn't perfect we keep on clicking till we get our desired picture & delete the rest. We are more cautious before the camera, posing for the perfect click before we garner adulation's from our friends. Funny, Huh!!!!! Hundreds of people share their captured moments of their families, trips, children and what not. Of course i am not an exception in this regard. There are people who do not even mind posing at parking lot, near the restrooms and such other places which seems whimsical to me.

Of course not to forget about the kind friends and relatives who dole out all their expressive words in praising the sense of photographer, the perfect timing, the dress or costume worn or the backdrop (forget about the person). Not all of us have aesthetic of taking a perfect picture but we never fight shy with our word.

Even though it is quite appreciable that the development of modern technology has made helped us to share our treasured moments yet it also gives us an opportunity to sneak peak into each others lives. I ma not talking about those exceptions who do not provide rights to share their photographs. But nevertheless living far from home when one can see the photographs of their loved ones it definitely brings inexplicable joy to the heart. Let all of us learn to share so that we all can be equal participants in each others happiness.....

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Father's Day

It has been a hot summer week and yes everyone's loving it. Not to mention the occasional showers which helped us to keep cool. This week has been a choc-a-bloc with many things. I had to walk some extra miles to get my things done. The pending stuff which both me & my husband have been ignoring over a few months have finally been taken care of. How happy i feel!!! My tender shoulders don't feel over burdened anymore and yes i need an invigorating foot massage to take care of my dehydrated feet. My husband always teases that we women just need an excuse to go for shopping or visit the local parlor. True, i agree and if by any chance any girl or women is going through these lines will perhaps smilingly agree with me.

Let me share an anecdote which took place while i was running between the errands to get my job done. On father's day when all the children tried to shower their affection towards their respective fathers through some flowers or cards to some expensive gifts there was one father son duo who taught me some valuable lesson in life.

The teenage son was physically challenged and was moving around the shopping center with his father seated on a wheel chair. His words were indistinct and somehow he persuaded his father to take him inside a shop which was selling good shirts at very affordable prices. His father took him but the teenager had some other plans. With babbling words he expressed that he wanted his father to try some shirts which his father smilingly refused but had to give in to his son's demand.

After an hour of trial they were unable to find the correct size. The son started to throw tantrums and yell. The embarrassed father tried hard to mellow his son but failed to do so. The irritated father started to walk fast pushing his chair, but his son stopped holding his hands. This time in a much soft voice & tears in his eyes he started to say something. The father went near his son & tried hard to interpret. Tears stated to flow through his cheeks when he found out what he said. It was Father's day & the son wanted to buy his father a shirt with his hard saved money. He said since he could not move freely so he asked for his assistance & the unavailability led him loose his temper. The father hugged his son tightly & in choked voice said this was the greatest gift he received- loving thoughts. People standing around couldn't stop their tears and applauded both of them.

In life we blindly take care of so many mundane things but we should never forget to share our truest emotions for the people we sincerely we love & care & this son has surely taught me this.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Football Mania

While half of the world is gripped with world cup fever, it seems like a festival where everyone is in a celebration mood. Dressed in their favorite jerseys everybody tries to squeeze in their time to devote to this game. The world seems to be unitedly participating in the game, watching every move, biting the flesh around their nails perhaps without even battering their eyelids.

Restaurants, pubs and even some offices have set up giant screens so that no action is missed by their ardent lovers. Wow, isn't that surprising? Wish we could stand up unanimously against thousands of social issues that is crushing peace, spreading hatred and what not. It is so strange how a game keeps us united irrespective of any geographical differences.

Well, game will end and one country will emerge as the winner and perhaps life somehow for the winning team will surely change but for people like us its back to normalcy. It acts as an escapade and forgetting all other strains of life we all love to enjoy. Let the surrounding sound grip us and may the best team win. Happy viewing friends!!!!!

Friday, June 11, 2010

Its all in words...

Some petty things in the morning just seem to make your day. These may be so trivial to us yet we experience some untold happiness and we possibly try to spread this happiness through our work. This morning i spoke with one of my aunts with whom i am yet to meet. I have seen her photographs and of her family yet never really had any chance to meet them.

When i spoke to her i could feel the warmth of her loving words, her enticing voice. It wasn't as if spoke to her at length but our short conversation has undoubtedly left an impression in my mind. The feel good factor certainly made its presence felt.

Our elders have always advised us to use words judiciously. Words which works wonder at very place needs some careful placement. But the flip side is if used unnecessary or in excess brings unwanted sorrow. In this mechanical world where we all are rushing a few loving words gives great consequences. An enthusiastic pat, a loving kiss, a warm hug, a benevolent smile indeed does make a difference. Mellowing down even the harshest words helps any fragile relationship turn into rock solid.

A famous band sang, "its only words and words are all i have to take your heart away". Try it...

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Apology......

I have updated my status at a social site about as apology being the strongest adhesive which soothes, heals and mends any broken relation and i seriously mean it. Recently i came to know about a friend whose family had severed their ties with their uncle. This friend being my childhood pal used to share all her stories, grudges and possibly everything until marriage separated us. The geographical boundaries have been too much for us to share our daily life especially when the clocks do not show the same time. Huh!!! Yet, we make some genuine efforts to offer a virtual shoulder to each other in times of distress or madness.

On a recent chat she disclosed that her uncle whom her grandfather disowned and later her father severed their ties had once again been included in the family. All these years he was untraceable until he made his appearance. Her uncle whom my friend remembers to have seen a couple of times during our school days at some function seemed to have lost weight and perhaps a changed person. He came to her father and rest of the family members to apologize for whatever he had done over the last few years. Tears rolled down through everyone's cheeks when he apologised to everyone for his misconduct and wanted to be included in the family once again. After lot of emotional turmoil my friends father finally gave in and he was overjoyed. Later there was a family gathering and my friend flew down to be a part of the celebration. This was something she just could not afford to miss. For the very first time she spoke to her uncle as a family member rather than a guest.

Later when she narrated i could feel her choking voice and the underlying happiness as she could not stop praising her fathers decision. Forgiving is an art and not many people excel in that. We waste so much time brooding over other people's happiness. Lets not waste any time in forgiving our near ones whom we are yet to forget and fill our lives with some more happiness...

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Tongue Tantaliser

I am done with my favorite breakfast which is a parfait and of course its an occasional indulgence. The weather outside has also aggravated my craving. My kitchen is choc a bloc with groceries and how i wish someone could help me with unpacking the stuff and setting them.

My recent passion has been to be fit and husband almost jumped out of sofa when he came to know about this. He has been coaxing me for some quite sometime to pay some heed to my extra flab's but somehow i wasn't convinced. On a recent visit to a retail store i got hooked when i saw a pair of jeans. Well, nothing unusual you would say, right. But this unusual lovely color caught my fancy & i hit the trial room. To my dismay it seemed i have put on...Oh no, please. I had to keep it back from i got it. Perhaps it looked better there or would look better on a slender waist. I returned home feeling really low and my husband really seemed to enjoy the entire anecdote.

It's time i really shed off those extra ounces before i become a valetudinarian both in health and mind. I know my tongue and taste buds will both be tantalized and perhaps sacrifice all my favorites. I just hope the efficacy of my sacrifices will be rewarding.

Monday, June 7, 2010

Enchanting Beauty......

I welcome myself after a short hiatus to this blogging world....Packing, trip, journey, drives, mountains, beach, hiking, ferry ride & on & on...The mad schedule was enough to keep me on toes but nevertheless enjoyable.

We all love vacations, isn't it? But how how many of us really enthusiastically unpack the stuff. I really wonder. I enjoyed both mountains and the beach. Both being ambiguous have so much to share that one would love to get lost in their arms. The majestic oceans spread far and wide with the waves furling and unfurling is enticing.
Same was the case with mountains. The enchanting beauty seemed to welcome everyone with its wide arm open. The uneasiness of the body due to the journey evaporated once i went near the mountains.... Felt God was somewhere very near, very close and both God and sun playing peekaboo. The caress of the wind , the sun kissing the cheeks, the unadulterated air all just added to its glory. The vibrant wild flowers who seemed like smiling gleefully also added to the scenic beauty and have made lasting impression in my mind.

I would love to revisit the place, but the very thought of packing unnerves me. I want to throw caution to the wind, let loose my hair, get lost and let my thoughts and imagination travel without any periphery, without any jurisdiction and perhaps most importantly without getting hurt. Let mother nature be my sole guide to the enchanting journey where i can rediscover myself long before i get lost amidst this crowd.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

In a soup...

The roaring of the clouds, the lightning in the skies and the sound of the pouring rain. A great band it seems even though i do not enjoy it. Rain kinda makes me feel depressed. It gives me a sense of helplessness and captivity but back in my native place its the other way around. Mother Nature always startles us....

I am particularly happy with a friend of mine who encouraged my free spirit to write. Even though i remain skeptical how people react if by any chance they go through my lines, he tried to conciliate my mind. Even he is hooked to this love for writing and perhaps understands the nuances better then me thus helping me..Got a good feeling...Thank you my friend.

The rain isn't showing any stop sign. I am yawning and wondering if any soup can lift my mood. Well then i have to dig in my refrigerator shelves hoping to find some veggies for my soup. I am not planning any elaborate soup since my stock is limited yet let me try. If by chance you feel hungry and want a bowl of soup please feel free to let me know. (Grins.......)

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Tuning In......

Watching a musical show on television where the singers are singing all my favorites...How cool isn't it? Some songs which are really close to my heart while some are foot tapping. Songs which brings so many thoughts across the mind. Some which goes back to the college days when we would check with our friends whether they have the CD of the same or they liked the composition. Man, good old days. It was so damn fun!!!

I remember a particular song which one of the singers is currently singing used to be a hot favorite one of my closest friends. She used to keep on humming the lines much to the annoyance of others in the circle. We used beg her to sing some other song and even her boyfriend did not fight shy to gift her a copy of some other song so that so that she could outgrow the particular song. How funny!!! A batch mate who used to wear a forlorn look due to his untimely break up used to to sing some broken hearted songs. Boys hardly spared him from pulling his leg. Poor fella!!!

Songs, such a wonderful creation which reaches straight to the heart and comes from the heart as well is replete with all the emotions of life. I love songs of all genre and wish more audible songs comes up so that we can keep loving and falling in love with wonderful compositions!!!

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Unsaid words...

My current favorite song has been playing for then past few days and now my husband isn't really happy. I have been playing it at an unwanted volume and somehow he has developed a distaste for this song. But sorry, i can't help. To top it i have been humming the lyrics much to his displeasure...grins......

No two people think alike so how can we have a similar taste!!! Hopefully you will agree with me. The last weekend can perhaps provide a silent testimony to this fact. Differing is perhaps not harmful, on the contrary if we do not grow keeping aside our differences that might prove to be abysmal.

I am no preacher and neither do i want to be ostentatious with my thoughts. But i really want to divulge deep into my mind in order to get answers to lot of unsaid thoughts and queries. Can anyone read between the lines????

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Dark tunnel....

Just when i thought that i have managed to hold myself from walking through some dark tunnels in my life i have once again been diverted to that same route. This route is perhaps everyone meets while walking through the path of life. All wise men have said that we are on a sojourn on this earth and God has sent us with a purpose. This journey starts form our mothers womb to the funeral and throughout this journey we cross several paths. While a toddler parents help in navigating our ways but as we step in our adolescence we decide our ways. How many of us can boast of choosing all the scrupulously ways? There have been many moments when we have been tempted to chose a path where people accompany us only to a certain distance and perhaps leave us in the lurch. We cry, we sob but can only hear our voices echo from some corner of that lonely path. Huh!!! Again its those benevolent people whom we never payed any heed or our affectionate friends who bring us back to see the sunshine.

Walking alone in the journey of life is painful. We need to be surrounded by scrupulous people who can stand by us through any predicament. Those people can be friends, family, spouse or at times children. I know i might be sounding a bit low while writing this but i have closely seen some people who could never return to normalcy after taking a way which wasn't their destination. Life never gave them a second chance and they lost whatever they took pride in. Good family, friends, love...How i wish they could have read or felt those silent insinuations that life tried to provide. Their torpid state of mind only sends doleful vibes.

We always do not need magnanimous people to be with us but let us try and appreciate those people who think for us care for us and above all want us always to be happy in life. Life and relationship is bound to be beautiful, trust me!!!!

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Pain of cooking...

We all eagerly wait for the weekends and even before we realize it flies out..phew!!!! Gosh, my poor back...its hurting from entire day's of cleaning and dusting. I am a cleanliness freak and at times the results are painful, trust me. My husband's abysmal sense of maintaining his wardrobe also adds some work to my cart. He also says i babble when i have a hard day's of work. So i decided to write. Earlier i loved to scribble but now the modern inventory items have given way.

A friend of mine recently wrote a superb blog about his cooking experiences.I thoroughly enjoyed when he narrated his heroic experiences in the kitchen. The vegetable cocktails, the salad dressings (some of the wackiest) the choice of meat with some unusual herbs and spices, i couldn't help stop laughing. He was very candid in declaring the fact that not all of these turned out to be savory but nevertheless he had to gulp them them down. Downside of a bachelor life i guess. A lot of friends who can safely say they know cooking provided him their contact numbers so that he can visit them over the weekends to have a proper meal. My friend's nightmare was when he had some chicken which wasn't thoroughly cooked and ended up suffering from stomach disorders.

Cooking is both a pleasure and a pain. While some people who have mastered the art love to dole out dishes for their loved ones while there are others like this poor friend of mine who keep on experimenting and landing in a soup. While there are others like us who cook but have a desire to cook to cook something memorable. Good luck to all the people with their recipes. Hope you win everyone's heart!!!

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Wandering Mind...

Immediately after our marriage my husband passed a very useful tip. Please don't let your minds wander!!! He said never in life try to please everyone, u will end up making yourself sad. People will overlook your effort and pounce upon you for your mistakes. I can vehemently say he was just too correct. Today i exactly experienced the same feeling. People around me were happy but somewhere in my heart i couldn't persuade myself because in my opinion i couldn't cater to everyone's wishes!!!

May be these are just some frivolous thoughts but it takes a while to coax and cajole to come in tandem with rationality. Mind and heart just wanders and i do not seem to have their reins in my hands. At every step life just opens a package full of surprises which at times i find too hard to react. I wonder at times why can't our parents stay with us forever to guide us to provide solace whenever our minds wander? I know they can't..huh..

The oddity of my husband's statement is that it is true and i have to abide by it if do not want further heart aches. So what if somebody doesn't like me, my face, my home, my family and on and on. I cannot stop living my life. I have to live my life fruitfully so that on one winter afternoon when i sit idly on my recliner i can rejoice in the fact that i have lived life to the hilt. I will pass my tears and tensions so that wrinkles and crinkles stay at bay...lol..But my last and emphatic word will be 'thanks' to all those people who have made me realize`this facet of life. Cheers!!!

Leniency and Clemency

The drizzle outside has added chill to the weather and i am savoring my tomato cream soup. yum yum!!! The aromatic herbs have added a distinct flavor to its taste. Though my salad plate isn't looking cheerful yet i have managed to have a few morsels.

In my last blog i wished for a bright sunny day but the weather today is depressing. I called up my parents this morning only to be saddened by some unwanted news. These news even though they aren't connected to me yet makes its impact felt. The repercussions are always deep. Let me end this topic here.

I have learnt one very important lesson from life--clemency. Even though i am still at an infantile stage when it comes to discuss life yet in my short span, life has taught me the art of clemency even though my memory never wipes them off...i wonder at times how i grew with my every mistake. At times these seem so funny, yet every mistake in the kitchen taught me the proportion of the condiments. I remember the first time i cooked my father encouraged to cook more but my brother laughed his lungs out. Not to mention about the food.

Leaving aside the funny side the`stoical part of me has definitely emerged. I think i should wind up for the day as too many adjectives isn't good for my mind..lol!!!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Simplicity

This weekend i was surrounded by a few close family friends whom i would like to term them as jovial. It's always nice to be surrounded by people who radiate positivity and fun. Their simple outlook towards life and their uncomplicated nature persuaded me to meet them sometime very soon. I admire their simplicity and their gentle hearts.

There are umpteen moments in our lives when we yearn for some light moments, a kind smile, a shoulder to rest or rather places where we can seek some solace. But difficult times drifts us away from those things. We all go through lean phases in our lives and these light moments gives us the strength to walk through.

Well, today's writing is perhaps reflecting the dull weather outside. It's a gloomy day and laziness is creeping upon me. Wanted to go for a siesta but some queer thoughts is irking me which i cannot fathom. I want to put them at rest. Often i ask myself, why cant we always be happy? I will answer myself. Mood is just like weather, though the key to happiness lies within us. If there is no winter we cannot appreciate the summer or welcome the rains. Back in my hometown after a day of scorching heat we pray for rains so that we get some unperturbed sleep. This is life perhaps. We crib for other people's possession rather than being happy with whatever we have. We fail to appreciate when we have those moments and shed tears when those moments pass away.

But peeping outside the window i am feeling that the evening should pass early so that another bright sunny day ushers in...Have a great evening or good night my friends...

Friday, May 7, 2010

It's weekend folks

Awww Friday...when most of the people rejoice that its time for another weekend and hit the pubs and restaurants, we choose to have vegetarian food on this day. No compulsion albeit voluntary !!! Lots of veggies, lentils and desserts minus eggs...The tradition has almost been passed on to me by my mother-in-law without any obligations and i gleefully agreed to it.

When it comes to mothers every string of our hearts are attached. Epitome of love, compassion and i can go on and on yet i will fall short of adjectives describing mother. As an old saying which says that God cannot be everywhere so he created mothers. How true!!!! I cannot pinpoint any occasion when i miss her the most but whenever i fall sick i miss her gentle touch, her presence. No medicine perhaps cannot perhaps meet her healing touch. This is one stop place where i can shed tears, find solace, comfort and inner strength to carry on.

Life is so strange, i believe!!! When i used to be at 'my' home with my mother i always fought over food insisting on that wasn't made as per my requirements. Now years after when i cook for my family, i realize how inconsiderate i have been towards her at times. But she is my mother. She forgave all and happily rustled up something else to satisfy my taste buds!!! I miss her so much.. Wish i had listened to all her wise words. lol!!!

As mentioned earlier its friday i cannot pamper myself or indulge in my favorite pizza. Yet i am planning to make something invigorating. Hmm, i am thinking and before my thoughts take me to some other planet here's wishing everyone a happy weekend!!!

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Treasured thoughts.......

My school friend after quite some time called me up and we had a long chat. Old memories brought back. Memories are such a wonderful thing only if it doesn't haunt. Lol!!! We discussed our school days, crushes and infatuation our present lives, and brooding over the fact that we do not get to meet. We laughed and enjoyed our conversation thoroughly....

I can describe from my own experiences how memories at times become ailment nurturing our sad heart. There are times when i miss my home and parents and that is when i remind myself of the time when we shared so many wondrous years. Those days will never be back but those memories shall ever remain green in my garden of memories....They say, experience is the best teacher, but in my opinion parents are the best guide. The untold words, the suppressed emotions, the perplexed or bewildered thoughts can be easily fathomed by them. These memories i can safely say we all love to cherish.

Not all memories are pleasant. As mentioned earlier some memories can be haunting as well. There are memories we really want to bury in some corner of our heart but some how some circumstances makes those memories creep. Let our determination be the shield which can protect our present from any unwanted memories. My brother-in-law says he wants to forget an epoch of his life or say as to say a few chapters of his life. I wonder will running away from those memories help? I have never been coy rather i have been a very docile person who doesn't want all memories to pent up in my heart. They can safely be stored in some part of my brain and can be used as reference as and only when need arises!!!

A lot of things are popping in my mind now. Some treasured memories i can share whereas some (u guessed it right) i can't!!! Till i make up mind what i can share here i end now a bit abruptly!!!!

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Heart Pangs.....

I woke up to a bright sunny day and this really makes me happy. The splendid day allured me to venture out. But before making further plans i sat in front of my machine to send an email to my cousin wishing him all the good luck for his upcoming exam. While i was about to log out someone pinged me at one of the social sites. The name appeared unfamiliar to me and most importantly it was evident it was pseudonym. While i was unwilling to divulge any details i recognised once when she introduced me to herself...Of course she could sense my insecurity and she made some extra efforts to convince me. Her name was almost chucked out from my memory (grins!!!!)

Well, she used to be one of our batch mates but due to her fathers posting she didn't continue with us. The epoch was too short for sure. She launched an avalanche of questions and i patiently answered them giving too less time to ask her something. The biggest question was when she saw my marital status!! She didn't forget to congratulate though our chatting continued.....

Last heard a few years ago, courtesy all the social networking sites, she got married to the person she was in love with. I remember a few of her uninvited acquaintances raised a toast wishing her a prosperous married life. Somehow i managed to tilt the set of questions towards her. I asked her about her post marital life. Unfortunately i could not read between the lines. It was only when i tried to pull her leg inquiring if she had started her own family, i could gauge her silence. I realized that the couple broke up sometime after their marriage. I cursed my imbecility. I apologized and she was quick to forgive me.. After some revelations of her personal life i could feel her void tone. I tried to provide her some comfort with my words and promised to be in touch...

Later in the day i went to the delicatessen to get some veggies but somehow her words lingered in my mind. The pain of separation can never be explained but only be felt. As they say, 'only the wearer knows where the shoe pinches.'

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Dinner Time...

Different people different taste. You may be wondering what on earth am i exactly talking about? I had a family as guests over dinner at my home a few days back. Since this was the first time i was meeting them i made sure and ensured that everything was just the perfect. The food, the table, cleanliness of my petite sitting area. I enjoy cooking but rustling up something for novice is sure a hard hitting task. Since i wasn't too familiar with their taste buds i decided to play safe with my tried and tested recipes. Nevertheless it involved same amount of time and effort.

Once they arrived, we all spent some time to prattle about showbiz, to weather, to culture, to sports and whatever our minds could possibly discuss. The couple looking dapper in their respective dresses along with their four year old son, shared their parenthood experiences and the pang and anxiety that goes in bringing up a child. The kid kept his parents on toes as well as entertaining us with his facetious activities. Then came the dinner time and i just pressed my fingers with the hope that they like the food which i later realized made indentations.

Well, most of my items really went off well with them and i could gauge that looking at their plates. But my poor salmon dish suffered. Somehow they unanimously do not like salmon and it just lay at one corner of the table. Even they were generous with their apologetic words yet my effort in that dish went waste. Poor me!!!!! Somehow i relieved my mind from brooding and asked my husband to help them with the sweet dish. My husband has perhaps more that one sweet tooth and he always emphasizes on sweet dishes. The kid of course had more food on the wooden surface and the carpet rather than on his plate. He was probably interested in chocolate ice cream which i offered him as bribe on the condition if he had a few morsel. After the dinner we spent some more time before they left.

The next day was spent cleaning the floor. I also realized that it is impossible in life to keep up to everyone's expectations. But that should not deter us from trying it. We can fail but hard work in any arena never fails.......

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Freedom....

My entire body is crippled with pain from my roller coaster experience at an adventure island yesterday. Some sheer moments of fun and body wrecking.This wasn't the first time i went for some joy rides. Even in my childhood me with my family and later on with my friends would go to the local fair held once in a year. The rides used to allure me. Later in my growing years we visited places where i have been exposed to various rides. I have never been an adrenaline junkie in this regard but my yesterday's experience perhaps has changed all my notion!!!

Well i of course didn't sit on those merry-go-rounds or the usual stuff. On the contrary i was convinced by my husband and friends to sit on rides which shoots up at the height of 180 feet. Phew!!!!! It not only pops up in the air but twists and turns, throws down and takes up and then mercifully takes us down. Some unadulterated moments of thrill....

I can never jot down in words how i felt at those moments but anyone who can read my eyes will come to know at a glance. I am also aware of the fact that this isn't a huge feat considering the truth that children in their early teens were also enjoying these. Those inexplicable moments will perhaps always be moral boosters for me whenever i feel low. I can safely convince myself that if can almost kiss the sky, no work is impossible. I can soar, i can fly!!! The brains who created these rides also perhaps didn't set any limits. For them the sky was just the limit.

I wish my sense of freedom and rationality just soars higher and higher. I want to cry, i want to fly. I want to be seen, i want to sing...I want and want..Well our 'wants' never stop. So, let me stop!!!!!!

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Junkie.....

I received a long forwarded email from a friend of mine earlier this morning dilating about junk food and its adversities. We all belong to an era where fitness regime is of utmost importance. Suffice it to say we all love to have piece of our favorite burger or fries.

A valetudinarian will perhaps think before consuming some stuff which he should avoid at all cost but for a section of the society junk food has become staple diet. We all have heard of dieting and crash dieting and such weighty words but when it strictly comes to abhor those we just throw caution to the wind. An impeccable body is hard to attain but we can give our best to remain healthy. Its quite ironical as well as ludicrous that the friend of mine who has sent or rather forwarded me the email is a victim of obesity. I do not know how he looks now but a recent look at the pictures which he has`uploaded at the social sites indicates that he hasn't changed much. Thanks to all the fast food joints that have recently opened at his neighborhood his fitness regime has gone for a toss. His parents must be growing berserk with his growing age as well as his health. His love for junk food is almost legendary amongst friends. Of course i too want to see my friend happy but more than happiness i want my friend to be healthy.

Well, i am not certainly not the best person to define a diet chart but i can surely dole out a friendly message to take care of our respective health. We do not need to detest our favorite delicacies just keeping eye on what we eat and working out will surely pay off in the long run. Cheers!!!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Sojourn

I am currently reading a novel which is about relationships and its various facets. Even though i have just completed a few chapters of this wordy novel, yet i just find myself gravitating towards this book. Every line or rather every word has left a lasting impression on my mind...

There are perhaps so many layers in any relationship. Even though the book primarily discusses the entanglement of relationships shared between the family members, yet i could probably relate to them. We all live in family where we get close to either our parents or our siblings. Our affection for them just deepens and we start to take them for granted. Now that i stay away from them i pine for their presence.

A friend of mine who recently lost her father could not stop sobbing when i called her up to offer my condolences. She seemed to be inconsolable and i could feel the hard corners of the absolute truth of life-- death. What troubled me more was the fact that she considered her father to be her best friend and guide of her life. Without him she seemed pretty lost. My attempts to pacify her ended in a fiasco and i ended my conversation praying to God to take good care of my friend!!!!

We all mortal creatures have to leave this world someday. The only difference we can perhaps make on this sojourn to this world is to spread some smile and peace wherever we go so that when we live people crave for our company and when we leave people cry over us.......

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Surprisingly surprised

Umm...what do i write today..hmm..hmmm...After two days of rain, its a beautiful day and i want to spend a lovely afternoon but something stopped me. What? A knock at the door....I rushed towards the door wondering as i wasn't expecting anyone at that time...A tall man was standing at my doorsteps with a packet. Wrapped with a colorful gift paper and a bunch of flowers that could woo any teenager for the man who would gift her, the man smilingly handed me the same. "For me?" I asked. "Yes", he said politely. He wasn't aware of the thoughts that were swimming across my mind....Who could have sent me a gift? or why would someone send me a gift without any occasion.I tried to tax my brain whether i ordered to gift someone. No, came the answer form my brain..."You have a great day, Mam!" the man said. "Thanks & wish you the same", i said rather confusingly.

As i hastily kept the packet and the bunch of flowers on the table, i tried to curb my excitement so that i didn't tear the lovely wrapping paper in an amorphous manner. Taking a knife i tried to cut the tape that was covering the gift in a prudent manner.As my knife smoothly detached the tape questions at the back of my mind also increased.

Ahh...my eyes couldn't believe what i saw...It was the same watch which i saw at the departmental store a few months back...My smile widened at the same time the question regarding the identity of the sender began to torment my mind. I tried the watch on my wrist even though it seemed a li'l big and required some adjustments. I ran my fingers across the lustrous flowers..Suddenly the phone rang and i went to attend. "How is it? Did you like those especially the flowers?" I went dumb and flabbergast for a moment...

Goodness it was my dear husband. Much to my astonishment, it was he who ordered it seeing my deep interest in that watch at the respective store. The flowers were its soft accompaniment. I was almost at loss of words as to how could i express my happiness along with expressing my gratitude. After a brief conversation we hung up.

I was am still touched by his little surprise and i am wondering how to surprise him in the near future.

Anyone with any suggestions????

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Attitude...Ahhhhhhh

I had a small tiff with my mother this morning over the phone over a (perhaps) trivial issue. While she was politely trying to make me aware of a dietary fact i on the contrary had something else to say....I guess the difference of thoughts due to the generation gap was coming in between. Later on we arrived at an amicable decision where i agreed to follow her advice though with some amendments.

I have a cache of memories when both me and my mother differed on various subjects. While she advised mostly from own her experiences, i chose to differ!!!! Well, we all are blessed with different mindsets even though trying to be different at every subject can make us termed as 'rebellious'. I know i might sound a bit whimsical in describing these, but when my cousin described her six year old son who is gradually turning rebellious, i could feel what she was trying to explain. Her son who paints when he is told to sleep or eats when he is asked to paint has become a concern for his parents. The situation isn't very unusual but why not look through his eyes. May be he paints when his tender mind is filled with ideas and colors and he wants to put them in his canvas without deferring . The creative things which makes his mind restless cannot be expressed in words, perhaps his chooses this medium even though his timimg may be wrong.

As elders we fail to identify a child's moods and temperament on various occasions but we can certainly channelize their 'different' attitude in a positive manner. Throughout their growing years they can choose to be different but on emphatically scrupulous thoughts. Their thoughts should be moulded in such a manner so that their 'different' attitude towards life and its various aspects do not become a cause of concern for their family and society........

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Attachment.....

My ring is missing, my ring is missing & i am sobbing.....Yes, my cute little ring which used to sit on my ring finger with pride is longer with me...I bought that with my hard earned money and it was very special to me. There are some things with which we share special bonding or attachment and my ring was one of those.

Attachment is a sort of infectious. We are attached to so many things of life and many of us get obsessed to a certain extent. One of our neighbors back in my home town was so attached to her pet that she could never imagine her life beyond her dog. The dog used to follow her wherever she went, share the same room. There were numerous occasions when she refused to attend any social functions or marriages of her relatives because she feared her dog would feel isolated. Her cousins decreased the frequency of their visits due to lack of attention.

The day her poor pet died she was inconsolable. Neighbors called the doctor and she had to be put on sedatives so that she could sleep for a while. Her tears moved everyone especially the kids who were equally fond of her dog!!!! The last time i visited her i saw a huge photograph neatly framed where she shared the space with her adorable dog. Her words still fumble at the very mention of the photograph. She can never forget.

Among the various facets of life, attachment is perhaps one such facet which is strongly in each one us. The feeling just needs to be tamed so that excessive use of this do not make us go weak in our knees. I just wish i too can detach this attachment for my ring, but i would not like to part away with the memories.........

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Tidbits...

Just completed a movie which i was planning to see for quite sometime. Feeling refreshed. The resplendent sun has given way to clouds and i guess there will be afternoon showers . Well, guessing game...Its a dry day outside and my humidifier is pumping hard to maintain the moisture in my room. Poor it!!!

My recent experiment of making a snack went off really well the people who had it and i promised my husband to make it again. Well its 'golguppas'. It almost salivates every tongue and i bet any girl of my land would find it irresistible. This street side delicacy over the years has just attained acceptance and popularity without losing its sheen. The crisp puffed flour balls dipped in mint tamarind water makes us beg for more. After paying obeisance to hygiene, people keep on popping one after the other. Some prefer spicy while others keep it low yet the love for this snack is perhaps irrepressible.

I did not venture much with my experiment. I had stuck to the tried and tested method of making it. The road side taste can never be substituted yet the joy in making a dish for your loved ones gives immense pleasure. It can't be substituted as well. Some one aptly said there are some things money cant buy and for everything else we need our family. To share sorrow or pain, pleasure or gain or possible everything.......Well, i can say about me......

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Beauty and the Bride

Its a wonderful spring afternoon. Green leaves have embraced the branches of the tress and the chirping of the birds just adds to its beauty. My neighborhood park looks like a green carpet. Sipping my can of soda i am going through the pictures of the engagement of one of my sister-in-laws. Ahh, i missed the occasion. I had to pester her to get those photographs as these days she is busy shopping for trousseau. I spoke to her in order to make her realise that i am craving to see those wonderful captured moments.

In her perspicacious nature she explained her choc-a-block schedule. These days she frequently visits her neighborhood parlor, cooks atleast one square meal for the family, entertain guests at home who drop at regular intervals to congratulate them. Well, she is also busy designing her dress as she is a bit fastidious about colors, cuts and designs. No girl on this earth would like to compromise with her wedding dress and she is no exception. In between our conversation which was on a social site she sent me a pics of her proposed dresses. The amazingly rich colors, the embellishments almost made my jaws drop. She must have spent a fortune on these dresses, i thought. She went on explaining her recent purchases about her make up kit, accessories and frankly speaking i enjoyed every minute of our conversation. Guess these topics kindles any conversation!!!!!

We, women like to dress up for any occasion except for circumstances which do not call for. For ages women have tried to beautify themselves irrespective of their natural beauty. But true beauty is on our heart. If we feel beautiful we indeed are. No synthetic product can camouflage our unrest mind or heart.

As i winded up my conversation with my sister-in-law i could silently feel her choking heart. Wedding day nerves must have hit and i tried my best to comfort her. I wished her all the good wishes and prayed to the Lord so that the two innocent souls may always live an unending happy life.....

Monday, April 19, 2010

Chit Chat

Chatting at the social sites are the easiest ways to talk to people these days.. Within a fraction of second minutes we discuss almost everything that can be discussed (mostly) under the sun. But all conversations aren't hearty. The flip side of chatting is, i feel, we do not know or gauge the other person's mental state of mind. We start our conversation with the people we feel or in the manner how our mind reacts at that moment. Our chat list is full of people with half of the people we never chat or perhaps never bother to do so. There are a section of courteous people who ping whenever we are available but we never respond or later apologize due to our inability to respond at that very moment. We politely drop an email or perhaps in our next conversation we explain that we were occupied with some other work which took our notice off the screen. The fact is a different story altogether.

I admit my observations may be befitting or totally irrelevant. Of course we have every right to ignore a person but is it wise to ignore them socially? Yes, for those situations we can update our status as 'busy' albeit true or not. This is perhaps a silent insinuation of our avoidance to chat. There are poeple who provide access to their friend list simply because they find it harsh to decline, ignore or disapprove the friend request. If they allow they will restrict their movements in their profile. Why then include them and give them such an in different feeling? Their birthday wishes, their queries are never answered or perhaps happily forgotten due to lack of time or loss of memory. The most common justification we provide is our rare visit at those sites where we have included them.

Saying 'no' doesn't come easily to everyone, but being honest doesn't harm either. Instead of fooling people with kind words, or a big hug, its wise along with being prudent to politely decline. I dont know how much this will help but it will surely save our time we waste on those nincompoops!!!!!!

Friday, April 16, 2010

Attitude......

Goodness, this is weird...i am upset...i was about to wind up my write up when a call diverted my attention. Instead of hitting the 'save now button' i clicked.....I hope you can make out that i made a mistake by hitting the wrong button and all the contents are gone..phew!!!!!!!! The blank page is almost smiling at me and perhaps asking me to scribble over it again.

I wrote at length about an amusing story which unfortunately i am not in a position to share again but promise to do so next time. How i wish i hadn't done that foolish act, on a second thought that nincompoop hadn't called up. Ahh, no use of regretting...

Similarly in life i wish we could move on so easily. We efficiently use the words 'no problem' but how many times do we heartily accept any ugly fact, untold truth, foolish mistakes? How many times we have made a buffoon of ourselves by saying what isn't expected at that moment? Yet, we say 'no problem'. The 'no problem' attitude is perhaps like a zero calorie caffeine which promises only to satisfy our tongue but rather leaves many of it accompaniments in our body. We still move on for another glass or can.

Many of us are blessed with this attitude. They are a providential section of people who remain gratified with all the circumstances of life. For those morose people who find themselves in pain at the slightest pretext, this attitude will surely help them to an extent. Well, i certainly do not favor this attitude all the time, but feel at times this can help in controlling the upheaval of emotions raising from various facets of life..............

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Words.......

In between running and preparing breakfast for my husband in the morning, i got a surprise call. It was my 7 year old nephew who lovingly called me up to convey his regards to his dear aunt and uncle. I was so touched by his stammering loving words which almost brought tears in my eyes. He tried hard to repeat what his parents prompted him. All i wished if i could give him a big tight hug. He gradually lowered his voice and in a softly told me, "Come back soon, i miss you....". Ahhh, my heart almost skipped a beat.

After my husband left for his office, i slide down in my chair and empty the contents of my tumbler which had my favorite orangeade. The words of my nephew made an impact on my mind. His innocent words compelled me to make a blueprint of my next plan to my native place. While i was comfortably seated on my chair and let my mind wander, calls from my few relatives made me discontinue my plan.

I am happy and delighted that they called me up. In this frenzy world, its perhaps these few precious moments which helps us to stay connected, to share our thoughts and of course say a few loving words which in times of mental distress or strained relations provides sustenance to carry on. Words are the worlds best healers, it can kill or heal any situation, any relationship or rather do wonders if only used judiciously.

As a wise man had aptly said, "Little deeds of kindness, little words of love help to make the world like the Eden above." I wish we can inculcate these simple 'words' to simplify our respective lives........

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Happy New Year.........

It's time for another celebration at every Bengali household. Yes, its time for a new year celebration. According to the Bengali calendar which starts on third week of April it marks the dawn of a new year. Lord Ganesha is worshiped on this day. There are certain communities who have only vegetarian food throughout the month of march till mid of April. On this day mostly people wear new clothes, offer their prayers and yes, have lot of food.

As a child we heard a lot of stories form our elders regarding the observation of this day. They say on this day people who are in to business close their current accounts book and start a new one. . In earlier times, people used to have only vegetarian food during the month of March since they believed that many air or water borne diseases could be avoided. The tradition still continues in certain households. Children of the household seek blessings from the elders of the family. i can proudly say this tradition still continues.

As a child we used to pine for this day. New clothes along with mouth watering delicacies made at home were awaited for. I miss the sound of conch shells, the incense sticks, the aroma of the food and the love and adulation showered by our elders.

Well i certainly cannot the recreate the environment but yea i can prepare some cuisine. I can call up near and dear ones and wish them a happy and a fruitful year ahead. While i plan some dishes i would like to wish all the people a very 'Happy New Year'. Enjoy!!!!!!!

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Silence and Solitude

Yet another gloomy day and the sun is playing peekaboo. But i am certainly not feeling melancholic. Instead, i see my neighbor who i guess must be in her seventies is busy in her small garden. An idea strikes my mind. I change for some better clothes and go downstairs to say a gentle hello.

Dressed in a light purple lilac frock and her glossy golden hair which in itself is radiating light she responds to my greetings with a bright smile. "Hello, young lady, how are doing?". I explain my interest in her blooming garden and also give her my identity. My keen interest in her flowers, especially the daffodils and my compliments paves my way to her garden and with pride she explains each of the plant she has planted over the years. Along with the plants, i could see lot of decor items which were spread all over the garden. The mention of the decor brings a twinkle in her eyes....

"I am a proud granny of two grandsons and they gave them ", she explains. As words flew i could see the pain of solitude in her eyes. She knew every single detail of her grandchildren, their taste and preferences. She was aware of their school, vacation and perhaps everything her memory could prompt at that moment yet the underlying pain of living apart was clearly visible in her eyes. Her only son who works in DC lives with his family there and in holidays comes down to meet them. She misses them and perhaps silently wished if she could see them more often. I realized that solitude is perhaps not always enjoyable.

"Oh, its 1 o'clock and we need to have some lunch", she said. "My grandsons are going to call us after they reach home from school", she said with a smile.
As i slowly stepped towards my home, i smiled in my heart and wished that she gets to meet her grandsons at the earliest!!!!!!!!

Monday, April 12, 2010

Friends....

Happy Birthday!!!!!! i never failed to wish this friend of mine ever since our friendship hit off. After years, the tables seems to have turned. No, we haven't become foes but the spark of our impeccable friendship is no longer. A simple 'hello' or perhaps any formal word helps to maintain our minimalistic realtion. Gone are the days when we shared our day to day anecdotes and now these thoughts almost pin prick my mind. Time changes and along with time and situations people also change. My thoughts have surely been solidified.

Well the irreversible cannot be changed for sure. But what about the memories? How can these be deleted? I brain storm my mind in the obvious hope of finding an answer. But i wonder as well if deletion takes place wont the good memories get swiped away as well? I certainly don't want that. i want those lucid memories to stay in my mind forever so that happiness and time can blunt the edge of my perturb mind. I do not have any bad thoughts for my dear friend and i wish all the luck!!!!!!!!

As i do not want to brood over those thoughts, let me go out and enjoy the sunshine which is happily smiling. Chocolates perks up any mood so lemme try that as well...

Friday, April 9, 2010

Gratitude

I am currently going through a novel based on the life of a model and frankly speaking i am feeling sleepy...As i move towards my kitchen to get some tea or coffee to get rid of this untimely sleep, someone knocks my door. Ah, my neighbor. She has tried some new dish and has come to share with me. A few minutes of discussion about today's gloomy weather and about our respective plans about weekend, she leaves. I keep aside the glass bowl which she gave me and plan to have it at dinner.

Silence falls over once again...I return to my book with a handful of chips. My neighbors gesture really made me happy. The quality or the quantity of the food doesn't matter, to me what matters is how lovingly you give. Once in my teenage years, one of my uncles presented me a dress on my birthday which didn't go well with me and he wanted my honest confession. My mother gave me a stern look which was a silent insinuation that i should be generous with my words. Later on she gently explained me the fact that somebody's loving gift should always be appreciated irrespective of its size, price or quality. The sense of gratitude should always be higher than the individual's choice. Those words have remained with me till today.

In today's materialistic world, we need to pass these values so that nobody feels offended when their gift isn't met with same warmth, smile which was expected or no mother is put into shame by her children. Mothers have the greatest responsibility in framing the mind of her child and her teachings definitely builds up a rational family thus contributing to the society...

Am i getting preachy????? Hmm may be... Let me better finish my book...

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Story Telling

"Baking a perfect cake is an art", not me, but my husband says...While carefully placing the cake into the oven and setting the timer, i take a short break to write whats on my mind.

We bake a cake on several occasions even when we have nothing to celebrate as i am baking today. Out of the window i can see the sun illuminating the fronts of the building across the street and feel pity for the old woman, who is carrying her groceries and hurriedly crossing the road. Well no strings of my heart are attached to her, but, she reminds me of my own grandmother who passed away a few years back.. Elder of the two siblings, it was me who enjoyed most of her attention.Even though she never sang lullabies yet her bed time stories were almost gratis to me.

Stories, now which are almost like a joke to me were certainly not so those days. I used to listen every word with undisturbed attention and at times used to go berserk if the characters resembled me or the story didn't end the way i wanted. But every story ended with a moral which now i feel is so important to shape a child's thought. Most of the stories taught to abhor all the negative things in life.

Those bygone days were perhaps the best days of life. Storytelling is also perhaps an art, which creates a nexus between the mind and the heart. Well nowadays, we read novels, magazines if nothing then newspaper, watch television and we try to imbibe those in children as well. But how many of us patiently sit with children to tell them a story about some Utopian land and at the end which teaches and not preaches?

Ohh, my cake is almost ready and it needs some decoration. While i go ahead with my work, i suggest u too can bake a cake and enjoy without any reason...Cheers!!!!!!!!

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Sultry Summer

Well nobody in my native place is convinced when i explain them its summer here. 'Summers, unbelievable', that's what they tell me. While my homeland is almost boiling in the sweltering heat and praying for rains, I am happy with the bright sun that shining up my head. The chirping birds, the humid climate is just a perfect day for me.

As my wind chime, which i have recently bought, is making some gentle tapping at the window i find its sound very soothing to my ears. I remember once me and my brother had a row over a wind chime whose color was pink and he vehemently objected to the color. Needless to say i won.

Pink is perhaps one such color which finds its place in every woman's wardrobe or home. The color itself brings a sense of smile or warmth which is inexplicable. Of course i have a pair of pink sandals which i lovingly bought them but never managed to wear them. There are perhaps a lot of stuff in every girls wardrobe which we buy, but never muster enough courage to wear them thinking that they would make us look like a buffoon. The impulsive shopper in us makes its way i guess....

My mother never approved pink curtains, pink crockery, pink door mats albeit i used to die for. Even though she too had a soft corner for the color yet she kept in mind the likes and dislikes of others in the family. Now when i go for shopping i understand how true she was. We women always think of our family before thinking about ourselves. Except for our look which cannot always be dictated by others and we need to give it a priority, rest everything comes secondary. Right form the doormat to the table linen everyone's choice needs to be taken into consideration.

Every single mistake reminds me of my mother and her teachings which perhaps had i learnt at that time would not have been a mistake now.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

Wedding Bells

While flipping through the pages of the newspaper this morning, i got a cranky call from a friend of mine whom i met on my recent visit to India. Cranky call, yes that's right, i prefer to call it that way since she never rather hardly gives me a chance to talk. The one sided conversation always lasts for a few minutes since she doesn't want the network service provider to make money out of her number.

She was in high spirits when she said "hello". I could instantaneously make out that she happy or excited or whatever. Even though she is quite susceptible to all the emotions of life yet her voice made my thoughts stronger. Blessed with a sweet voice, she shared the news that she is getting married. "Getting married, wow"--I exclaimed! What better news then this early in the morning that someday is getting married.
As i mentioned about one sided conversation,she gave me a quick synopsis about her fiancee. I wish i could see her blushing, that would have surely added some more fun to this conversation. How i wish i could have given her a hug to express my happiness, my joy and my best wishes to this dear friend of mine whom i always want to be happy.

As we hung up the phone, my mind got flooded with memories of my dear friend, the days we spent discussing the big word 'marriage'. It certainly seemed ambiguous to us then and now when she is on the threshold of this uncharted territory i want to relive those moments!!!

Marriage epitomizes a lot of things. She will step into a new world full of responsibilities, liabilities, challenges. She will have to juggle between home and work and most painfully leave behind her parents and home. It's a moment she will experience soon and my heart cries for her.

Leaving so many memories and thoughts aside, i have decided to call her up this weekend so that i can pacify my mind about my curiosity of her new trousseau, her honeymoon plans and etc etc. Oh yes, i need to know about her new fetish as well, so that i can gift her something memorable. The last time i asked her it was her love for earrings, and i am sure it has changed. I seriously hope she will give me a chance to ask these questions.

Monday, April 5, 2010

It a humid spring afternoon and i am lazily seated on my favorite chair where i spend several hours of the day reading, gazing through the window or simply sharing simple anecdotes.

Summer here is splendent. Bright, humid & of course the vivacious Cherry Blossom. I simply find them mesmerizing. On a recent visit to Washington via Baltimore where we stopped to visit at the National Aquarium i realised how much happiness these aquatic creatures can give by their sheer look. Even though they are almost a captive yet one cannot stop but wonder how delicate these creatures help us in several ways. Even a cursory glance at them made me fall in love with some of the fishes whose names i have happily forgotten. I was so enamored by their color & movements that the names written below each of them almost escaped my eyes.

All through the way i was pretty excited about the seeing Dolphins. Yes, i saw them on television especially on the wild life channel & always dreamt of watching them live someday. My heart fluttered with happiness when i saw them dancing and diving in front of me. They dived, splashed water, played with the ball that was provided to them. These creatures danced & for a moment made me realize how beautifully they have been tamed. They carried out all the instructions and perhaps provided me with some unforgettable moments.

While writing this blog, another thought that is creeping in my mind is that wish we could tame our mind!!! Wish we could tame to it be happy when ever our hurt instructed or vice a versa.Wish no irksome words or thoughts could ruin our thought process. Well perhaps and perhaps.....

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Happy Easter

As another week comes to a close, people including me are overjoyed since its a long weekend. Long weekend, did i say that? Yeah.....Lots of planning how to spend the three days, which when comes disappears quite surreptitiously. It's a bright sunny day and i see a lot of people moving doing some quick shopping. Shopping, itself is an addictive word according to me. Most of them are perhaps buying eatables to munch while driving albeit there are some who are preparing for the Easter. Leaving aside the shopping part well, every festival on this earth spreads a silent message. To live in peace and to spread cheer and joy wherever you go.

I can go on length describing our various festivals and how they are celebrated but given the fact that we both have to hit the road early morning stops me from doing so. Packing is the worst part of any trip and in my opinion unpacking is all the more chaotic. I remember on our last trip i forgot to take my box of cosmetics. Needless to say about my pain and my skin which was almost getting dehydrated due to lack of moisturizers!!! Well, my husband was pretty amused with that since i didn't take long time to get ready.. Thankfully that was a two day trip else i would have gone berserk.

Memories, the only thing that stays with us forever and ever. So, go out my friends and make your this holiday or trip a memorable one because these memories at times become the sustenance of life...

Happy Easter and Happy Holidays!!!!!!!