Tiffin Tales 128

 Hola...

I am back after a small interval.The month of October is usually a busy month owing to multiple festivals and the aura surrounding it...We are Bengali's and we celebrate Durga Puja which mostly falls in the month of October. Hence October just flies in a flash.

This year it was a different experience to celebrate this festival remotely. Durga Puja follows age old customs and it involves quite a few rituals over three day long festivity. It is quite challenging to condense so many rituals and perform taking alternate route. We all are currently living in a strange world right now and gradually we are evolving in this new way of living. 

I am sure the Goddess doesn't distress over the fact as to how we worship her. It can be remotely, publicly, privately or if nothing happily. She needs undivided devotion, faith and would care less how and where we offer her. While rituals binds us together, faith keeps us going. I am sure this year we have prayed extra hard to get rid of this virus surrounding us.

This year, there were restricted temple visits, no new clothes, marginal photos and bounded food menu. Bengali's indulge on food especially sweets during this time of the year but this year it was controlled and contained...We made ourselves and had them all by ourselves. Growing up we always exchanged food amongst our neighbors and even relatives visiting us would carry any food item especially sweets. The aftertaste of sweets weren't sweet this year. Families couldn't reunite which is one of the biggest highlight of any festival. Sweets, sari, food everything wore a forlorn look. 

The end of the coming week marks another festival Diwali. We all like to illuminate our homes and hearts with lights. This festival has so much warmth that it can instantly brighten up anyones mind. While we gear up to light our homes, let pray for the ones who wont be able to celebrate owing difficult times and situations. May the glow and warmth of this festival eradicate the virus from our lives and minds and bring the smile back. Enjoy the festival with sweets and savories without forgetting the world around us. Its a painful world but lets add more smile and sensitivity. Happy Diwali!

Tiffin Tales 127

 Hola...

It's a crispy autumn day. The sun is shining mild and modest and gentle winds are kind of breathing heavily at times. Amidst all the pandemic fears the weather is changing and festive season is also around. It's completely optional if we choose to celebrate or not but nothing stops the cycle of life and culling our options are nothing less than rigorous. We all love our festivals. 

A few days back on social media I stumbled upon my long lost friend whom I feel I had met many moons back. We weren't exactly friends but somehow we were attached. We went to different schools but same grade. We weren't neighbors or friends but knew each other well enough to rescue the other  in case of any emergency. We knew each other houses but never visited. We always smiled and spoke sporadically but there was no deep friendship although we had a few mutual friends. Life was moving at same pace until teenage years threw a couple of friends off the radar.

I remember that evening. After school hours we returned home and followed the same conventional itinerary.When me along with a few of my neighborhood friends went for our playtime or some walking we could see many women talking something in whispers. The discussion seemed intense and intriguing both at same time. A few steps ahead we could gauge the severity of the topic. We raised our bunny ears and after lot of coaxing came to know that my friend had apparently eloped with his boyfriend. We were dumbstruck and found ourselves cold to respond to the news. Her mother was crying and her father seemed upset as he was talking to people around asking for ideas as to how to handle the situation. This was a topic of discussion over the next few days in our neighborhood and in school recess times and any free time we could have. A week later she was traced down by her family and her father convinced her to return to her family. A few of our friends family went to meet her but we didn't. I did see her after that but didn't know how or what to talk or enquire about. People stalked and stared her wherever she went. One could see her eyes and tell that she and her family members were disturbed. She wanted a regular life which seemed preposterous at that moment. 

Society can be both giving and unforgiving at the same time. Perhaps she realized the extent of her mistake and wanted to leave all the baggage behind but people wont let her. Her family was constantly reminded of her deeds and taunts accompanied them everywhere. Her family was her support and they tried to heal her. Her father took a transfer of his job and they moved to a different state. The last time I saw her she was wearing a jeans and lilac top waiting for her father at a bus stop. They moved to a different state and we never heard about them.

Years later in these unprecedented times, social media comes to our rescue every now and then. It was during these lockdown and random looking at friends photo album I saw her name. I never assumed that it would be her but curiosity bites at times. It was her who looked more matured and posing with her children. I remembered her, but my memory scanned only our childhood faces. I wasn't sure if at all I should approach her but it felt inexplicably good to come across the face who were a part of your childhood.

We all grow, move out and continue on with our life. Nothing remains stagnant for ever and this pandemic won't be everlasting either. While we all are edgy and fidgety at this moment, let's keep calm and fight this. We have to fight both internally and calmly to remind ourselves that nothing is impossible for human kind. Yes, while fighting don't forget to show some love to people around you. It's the need of the hour...Stay safe & keep reading...

Tiffin Tales 126

 Hola...

I hope everyone is just sailing through these tough times and amidst the tough waters. The weather has changed and suddenly we miss the summer sun as autumn has kicked in. The days are getting shorter and temperatures have dipped down. The shorts and sleeveless dresses are slowly going for wash to be folded and packed for next summer. We are on the ninth month of the year and I feel the gestation period is getting over. The remedy for this pandemic will be here soon. Hold on! this isn't any information but a strong feeling that things will get better sometime soon. This is hope I feel.

Today I will share some something apart from my story. Not a story though but weaved close enough to be a story. In my childhood years there was a girl in my neighborhood who went by the name 'Seema'. She was as ordinary as you can imagine. Her parents were working and she was mostly taken care by the helper of the house under the vigilance of her grandmother. Seema led a normal life but to many children of the neighborhood she was boring. She was never interested in any games that other children of her age played. She used to sit in one corner, watch others play. In school she mostly kept to herself and was an average student. Sometimes she used to talk to others which was less though compared to the kids who used to scream when they were declared out of the game unjustified. Less talks, no enthusiasm, no hobbies cumulatively labelled her as boring. On her birthdays we all were invited but she used to show very less interest in cakes and balloons. She used to observe the other kids who were ready to pounce on her cake. A few years later they moved to a different town and we kind of forgot Seema.

We all grew up moved out in our separate journeys. In these fast paced we lost a lot of people, relations and most importantly lost track of time. Our children's birthdays forcibly makes us realize that time flow is expedited. We no longer celebrate our birthdays because planning for our children's birthdays has taken over precedence. Just before the pandemic hit us badly I happened to get in touch with of my childhood friends and in a surprisingly twist to our conversation came to know about Seema. She is happily married and her children are growing up fine. She isn't very active on social media which I guess has lot to do with her childhood nature of laziness. During my conversation I was surprised to know from my friend that Seema has grown up to be a smart and really strong woman. She takes no hogwash and ridiculousness from life and people. She stands up for all the inequity and abuse that people and life throw at her.

Seema is a school teacher and on several occasions has been ridiculed by her family members over her inability to cook well. Her mornings are usually busy and by evening her children, their studies accompanied with other chores leaves her little time to make a proper dinner or lunch.The taunts got from bad to worse and her in laws mocked that her children will never know the taste of proper home cooked meal. The fast paced generation will live on fast food because their mother runs on killing pace. When the digs got deeper Seema retorted. According to Seema her children will learn a lot of other things besides seeing their mother sweating in the kitchen trying fiercely to make them the perfect lunch or dinner.

Mothers these days juggle amidst lot of things. She can bake a cake and produce a movie. She can fly an aircraft and equally make a nutritious meal. She can share the equal responsibilities along with their father and in return their father can also turn up a nice meal. They can go on vacations because their mother can contribute. Mothers can take a selfie while tying the shoe laces. Mothers need and deserve a mini vacation, if not anywhere at least with her parents. She should not be sulking and craving to meet them. Mothers realize the importance of mental health and a happy mother leads to a happy home. Children learn the basics of life from home, family and most importantly from their mothers.

Seema's children may not be enjoying any delicacies but everyday they see their mother struggling to keep sanity in their home. They see their mother's endeavors, her sacrifices and above all a strong independent lady who knows her mind and doesn't remain captive of other people's words.

I am surprised how Seema has evolved over the years and I am equally happy that she is fighting not only for her but for her children too who loves her and most importantly respects her just like they do their father. Children are certainly learning, perhaps less from text books and more from the world around them...Thoughts????

Tiffin Tales 125

 Hola...

Happy Ganesh festival to everyone. May the Lord keep everyone safe and healthy. This is such a time when everyone celebrating this festival wears a broader smile, dances with joy and prays. This year a lot of things are muted in our lives. There is so much stress and panic all over the world. Most of us are wearing a poised look waiting for a solution to this world wide problem.

The last month for us has been good in terms of weather. Most of the days have been sunny and less rainy. The summer days couldn't have been better. In the current scheme of things we couldn't have asked for more. August is almost about to end and the days are getting shorter. We still go for short walks maintaining the safety measures. 

All schools are starting online next week and I am hoping things will start to look up for the students as of now. Children are getting restless and I am moving around like headless chicken. While it's a new and a challenging way of starting a school year yet the students look excited. My toddler is still clueless though with everyone at home she feels its an unending vacation she is savoring.

This morning I have been majorly missing my home and my parents. There are days when nothing seem to convince you even knowing the situations are unfavorable. I feel like going to them even if its just for a few days. The wait seems ceaseless. Looking at the sky and looking at the cargo plane made feel like flying immediately. I wish I could board that plane and just fly to them. I kept gazing at the plane till it flew out of my vision. My vision isn't great though. I do eat vegetables.....

My elder one drew a plane and gifted me. He said, mom you cannot board it but close your eyes, and you can fly with it. His words cheered me up and I did follow them. I flew far and wide above the mountains and oceans and deserts and reached my home. I saw my parents, hugged them, had food with them. It tasted so delectable. I said a quick hello to my neighbors too. I saw my home, the plants, the neighborhood and perhaps every corner of my home. My mother had a compound expression on her face. She was joyous and equally sad because I was leaving. She wanted to pack some goodies for us but I refused because I was flying with my wings on. There was no luggage with me. My heart was the only space which I tried to fill with memories. The wait time to meet again was reshuffled. A few minutes later I came back to my real world. The world where millions like me are waiting to meet their families. I hugged my child. In these unprecedented time these moments of dream add so much laughter and optimism in life. I thank my child today for giving me these euphoric moments which added a bit more strength to my nerves....

Take care, stay healthy...Much love to all...

Tiffin Tales 124

Hola..

Please tell me you all are doing well, at least sailing through. It's been quite a power packed week for us as we tried to fix quite a few things at home. A few mechanical things broke down, we took turns to fix them. The mixer stopped working, the vacuum cleaner got choked with innumerable lego pieces. The door handle of the bathroom came off adding to the fun. I am not quite a pro at fixing these but not a noob either. But the stress of fixing them because we are so dependent on these machineries added to more stress.

The last week was mechanically challenging and surprising that by the weekend time we almost curled up in our bed or sofa fearing any new fender-bender. The door handle was missing a tiny screw and we tried to search the entire area as though looking for a precious stone. We couldn't succeed but in that process cleaned and brushed the entire area multiple times.

We weren't exactly looking forward to any fun weekend either. We were impatiently waiting for the screw parts to arrive which we ordered online. The vacuum was choked to the maximum. It needed lot of time and patience which we spared and finally cleaned. Cleaning a vacuum cleaner for cleaning the house. Fun, huh! The mixer refused to go in circles and I had no idea why. We tried our best but couldn't figure out. Some heavenly stars might have taken pity and to our rescue we found an old mixer which just had the body without any accompaniments. We exactly needed that. The current jars fitted well and what more could we ask for. Get me some tea please!

All through out our weekend we were home, no food from outside, no movies. We tried to snuggle in one corner are praying silently for the things not to fall out of place. We cooked a bit though. The kids wanted to bake a cake and I insisted on a banana cake in order to capitalize those bananas. They were pretty good but they didn't survive the weekend though. No regrets though! I on my part made some rice dishes with vegetables and chicken.

The week started with rains and its cloudy today as well. A lot of new emotions have been added in our lives these days and putting them into words is an art which I am still learning. Let's see how this journey goes. We all are in this together. Stay safe and stay healthy....

Tiffin Tales 123

Hola...

It's Friday and we are indoors. The sun is blazing outside, the heart is screaming to go somewhere by the waterside but there are demons outside. I wish the demons would have gone on some vacation too. We could have got some respite in summer. Summers are a festival here after long winters and who doesn't want to be a part of the celebration. This year we have this unwanted guest who is spoiling our summers, derailed all our plans and bungled all our year long activities.

Let's not even talk about this guest. This week has been good for us in terms of weather. The temperatures have been on the higher side, the sun was fierce and we could not have been happier. There have been rains but no complaints about that. 

We have been celebrating birthdays of our loved ones with virtual hugs. We smiled, wished, spoke loudly and secretly shed a tear or two. We do not know about our next meet but prayed hard that we meet soon. My kids have been insisting on baking cakes/cupcakes/muffins when people on the other side of the screen hav been cutting and enjoying. Lol, thats what is childhood I feel. So I baked muffins to lift their moods, ran with them in our backyard till I got leg cramps, read with them till I fell asleep. I always look and feel sleepy though.

This weekend again we have no such plans. We might try to soak the sun a bit. No travels for us, simple rule of this summer.

What are your plans for this weekend? Lets share some ideas. 

Tiffin Tales 122

Hola...

I am visiting this space after a gap and feel like the world has changed a lot. Everyday surviving is getting more and more challenging and keeping a healthy mental health is getting all the more brute. I know barely anyone reads my lines but writing here makes me feel like standing in front of an open window. We can see and feel a lot of emotions standing in front a window but at the end it makes us feel fresh and more open to our thoughts. 

With so much going around I feel my mind has been cluttered and standing or sitting next to a window seems to be stress buster for me these days. I want to write about so many things but feel not to write about any negativities of our present world. On some days I find myself overpowered by emotions that I speak less on those days. The weather, the world affairs everything seem so very difficult to comprehend.

I am not one of those whose writings or posts or any photos garner any attention. Still I write, post my updates not to bring any big change in this world but help myself. I find writing or posting pictures therapeutic. A few words creates so much impact. These day I am randomly reading blogs of people. People write about so many incidents, thoughts and ideas leaving me alarmed as to whether my words make any sense at all. But then we all are different with different levels of perceptions. 

Over the past few weeks we together have watched or so to say binge watched, tried new recipes and tried to laugh a bit more. Laughing is one of life's blessings and in the current scenario we are too stressed for that. In my home we try to crack a joke or remember any funny incident from past which brings smile or makes us laugh. Apart from lightening the environment it adds well to the family time.

I have no idea where this virus is driving us but each day I pray for more positivity and immunity. Lol! We need both of them in equal proportions now. Its's a hot day here today and we are so happy. Nothing we do but go for walks, run till I can. I am a bad runner by the way. Once home exhausted have dinner and pray. Pray for a better tomorrow, pray for freedom and pray that we are never deprived of basic necessities. Are you praying too? Let me know incase you go through these lines...Stay safe and stay positive...

Tiffin Tales 121

Hola...

It's the sixth month of the year and by now we all have undergone and experienced so many varied levels of emotions. While another six months of the year remains most of us are yawning and waiting for this year to get over. Some of us are stressed and some are scared to the core as to what awaits us next.

Scared? But why? Is it fear of unknown or the fear of how to process that abrogating that piece of news? We all are different when it comes to facing negativity or any other complex emotion. Most of the people must have read about the news of the actor who took his life because of depression. Since yesterday I was feeling disturbed too. The actor wasn't related to me or my family in any possible way but his untimely departure has left many open ended questions. I am sure many like me are looking for answers. He looked well, acted well, earned decently, was well-informed and perceptive then why did he take such a drastic step? We all are weighted with our 'why's'. His set of questions left the earth along with him but our minds are simply drowned with so many questions. It seems he wasn't given due credit, acknowledged for his work, was sidelined and so many things that are surfacing now. He was avoided by many when he started visiting doctor for depression. Nobody to hold his hand firmly and assure him that whatever be the situation it always changes. Only if he knew, understood and hadn't succumbed. My wish along the wish of thousand other people's wish.

We all want to be loved, listened and encouraged from time to time. Feeling loved by people is a basic instinct I guess and he was no different. In this over populous world we find hard to find a trustworthy person to share our feelings. I am sure just like him there are millions out there who really want someone should calmly listen to their stories. Listening is so important and in parenting it's one of the top most. We argue, we scream, we cry, we advise but rarely listen. Having someone listen to our story is so therapeutic. 

In this world of gadgets most of our feelings are expressed through emoticons, smileys, abbreviations and you name it. Machines sense most of our needs, help us with finding the perfect gift for our loved ones. I wonder can they gauge our love for them too? The funniest thing I find people do not trust their family members with their phones. Phones keep their trusted secrets which human beings cannot. My brain still spins while I am writing this. We have replaced human touch with lots of other disposable things.

As I pray for the soul of the departed actor I am hoping that someday we all will have answers to our questions, at least of some. We all can play a little part that nobody falls prey of taking their own lives. It's a one time gift for ourselves and our parents. A parent(s) contribution in raising a child cannot be jotted down in a few lines but when people succumb to the worldly pressures parents die almost instantly too. The actor had many heights to scale, many rocky roads to walk, many milestones to celebrate but he chose a different path. Let's all respect his chosen path but synchronously chose to be more patient with the people around us. Often we ignore people who try to reach us but later regret it. I hope we all try, the least we can do... 

Tiffin Tales120

Hola...

I hope everyone is doing fine amidst all the things in life. The universe seem to be in quite a chaos now. We are all slowly getting back to our pre corona lives. Even though we are trying to make changes and emphasizing a lot on hygiene, yet there is some amount of fear in our minds. The virus has dug deep into our lives and minds.

I really don't know how to feel these days. Each day feels like a mixed bag of emotions. Its June and the only day when everyone at my home felt happy and excited was on May 31st 2020, when two humans went to International Space station first time from a private company. The feeling was so good. It felt that human beings achieved a new scale, set a new benchmark and years of hard work was meeting success. Not for a minute the virus bugged our thoughts, only kept fingers crossed and wished success. Those few moments are so far the most enjoyable and memorable for us.

Within a couple of days I was deeply saddened when I read the news of pregnant elephant who died after consuming pineapple with firecrackers. My head is still spinning thinking how low can we stoop down as humans. This pregnant elephant was just looking for food and trusted the humans. The elephant should have trusted the nature perhaps the baby elephant would have arrived by now. It's so shameful and derogatory just thinking about it. 

We all living beings have equal rights over this planet and resources provided by nature. Our skin color, race, religion should never be a hindrance in getting respect and dignity that we all deserve. The recent killing has opened up all the bottled up oppression that people have to face today and everyday. Protests have sparked off far and wide and its time we change our approach. The universe is trying to change everything or man made beliefs. The century old norms are about to change and we all have to learn to coexist.

I don't know how this weekend looks like but I have to shop a bit. My pantry needs a bit of restocking. So with masks and gloves I will have to run a bit of errands and settle for the next week. Let's just hope the coming days are peaceful so that we all can sit under the sun. Our summers are pretty short and losing one sunny day is a precious loss. All we hope is that the coming days are less stressful and more peaceful. Much love to all...

Tiffin Tales 119

Hola...

It's Memorial day weekend and we are thinking of the fallen heroes all over the world for the service of mankind and humanity. I feel we have warriors all around us. They are unsung and unheard but silently serving the community around them. The brave men and women who defy all societal norms to help others are just more than courageous.

In these corona times we have lots of warriors around us. People who are fighting for our lives and health, people who are keeping us connected, people who are working to deliver the deliverables, people who are teaching and many many others who trying to help in whatever big or small capacity. 

I like to call my kids warriors too. They are helping themselves and me at times to keep everything flowing. These little ones are oblivious to many facts of life yet they are trying in their best possible ways to keep themselves occupied, sometimes without being asked.

Back in my small home town is one such 'Pishi' (aunt) who is doing amazing things in these trying times. She is a widow and her children live in different states. She advised them not to come to her in these strenuous times. Her children regularly call her and try to take care of her. She is fully aware of the current situation yet she decided to make food packets and asked a trusted neighbor to drop them at hospitals or any government organizations where people work in shifts. She never refuses anyone whoever comes at her door step asking for any kind of help. She has been doing this for the past two months and wants to maintain that. While her children are almost freaked out thinking about the consequences she assures them that she is doing fine. Pishi wears gloves for most part of the day, wears masks when she cooks and drops the neatly packed food packet at her patio before someone comes to collect them. She has a maid who also happens to be her renter who helps her in her household but when it comes to cooking she insists on doing everything herself. She takes immense pride in cooking herself and satisfies her soul thinking that someone has eaten the food without going hungry to bed. She makes very simple food probably what she eats but she feels home cooked has extra nutrition because its cooked with love. Those of us know her have simply been amazed by her thoughts and her zeal to do something in these arduous times. Pishi is exemplary for people around us. Some of her neighbors have been motivated by her energy and devotion that they do groceries for her and drop at her door step and she helps others with those food items. Circle of life I say.

There are perhaps thousands of 'Pishi's'  around us who are trying and are contributing. Not everyone can be like her but everyone can smile, pray and share some load and together we can make a difference.

These days the schools are closed and all focus is on the lunch. My fridge has very limited vegetables but surprisingly there were a few chicken drumsticks in my freezer. Rice, chicken drumsticks and some diced carrots and peas, onions, with some minimal spices and all in a cooker. What would you call? He named it 'surprise biryani'. I couldn't be more happy. Now he is resting and let me watch something...Take rest and take care everyone...

Tiffin Tales 118

Hola...

 I was so elated about the sun shining yesterday that today we don't see the sun at all. Ironical! All last night I was apprehensive about the storm that has affected the lives in West Bengal and other adjoining areas. The storm which has been named 'Aamphan' has been really destructive and most people say that they haven't witnessed so strong and calamitous previously. The coastal areas have been the most hard hitters. Huge tress have uprooted, birds and animals have died and lot of places are presently without electricity or water. Nature is really furious, it seems.

The year of 2020 is a year of nature and the disasters that we are witnessing . It started with horrific fire emergency in Australia. Millions of animals and scores of land had been destroyed and wildlife was the worst hit. Even before the wildfire started there were news of volcano spouting lava displacing almost putting 500,000 lives of people in danger in Philippines. The Australian wildfire hadn't even settled yet when the world was gripped and still by the corona virus. The virus has been described as pandemic and the world wide spread has forced the world to close everything and sit inside our homes.

The first five months of the year has been investigating in terms of patience and survival. Each and every day we all are struggling to keep ourselves safe from the virus and yet trying to lead a 'normal' life. I don't know the new normal because we were so used to previous normal that settling with the new normal will certainly take lot of time and tons of effort.

A few of my friends and families live in and around West Bengal and since morning I have been texting them to check about their safety, the least that I can do. Nature has its own way of teaching the mankind and perhaps it's a subtle way to indicate to obey the laws of nature in order to avoid any future catastrophes.

I so want to go out for a walk now but feel too lazy to put on a pullover. I think I should and return for a cup of tea. The dinner will be late for sure...

Tiffin Tales 117

Hola...

The clouds are slowly giving way to sun. The sun is visiting us after a gap of five days and we are hoping to see him everyday. It isn't a bright sunny day yet feels good to catch a glimpse of sun every now and then.

This morning my elder one was struggling a bit to play a simple song on his guitar. It hasn't been long that he started to learn this instrument. We cannot completely say he loves it but he shows interest to play it. He is short tempered and very emotional by nature. He cannot hide his frustration or anger. I could see his frustration at his inability to master that tune. Patience still doesn't come close to him, perhaps fearing his temperament. Well, I always joke about that. He struggled for sometime and then he 'almost' gave up. I suddenly murmured that, 'you are trying your best, and success follows soon." I don't know how much he listens to me but this morning he did. He did and he triumphed. 

Words have so much magical effect on our minds and hearts especially on the kids. A simple line or a few encouraging words makes a day and perhaps frames a mind. When it comes to kids they take parents words very seriously and sometimes they get imprinted in their minds. I encourage my kids to try everything in life and think less about consequences. Trying new things opens a lot of opportunities compared to guarding them against everything. Now when I say this it doesn't mean I advise them them to do anything unhealthy, unlawful or anything abhorrent in nature. I want them to try, fail, learn and then set on a new adventure. Trying new things takes a broader horizon to look at challenges and some encouragement. I cannot say about other kids but mine are restless and are constantly looking for a change of activities. It is highly challenging and exhausting on my part but yet I feel in the process we all might end up learning something unknown.

We all need perhaps one perhaps who will never give up on us irrespective of the circumstances. One person could be just anyone who will encourage us to swim even if the tides are high. We all need one and we should try to be that one. Trying to be that one will be a bit harder because at some point we will have to let go off our ego and put some else on the priority list. To overlook their faults and happily embracing them just the way they are. 

My mind is clouded when i think how I will be able to navigate their thoughts and lives but no matter what we as parents will love them unconditionally for just the way they are and the way they want to be....

Tiffin Tales 116

Hola...

It's been pouring and pouring incessantly for the last twenty four hours. The clouds seem to get heavier with each passing hour. Looking out of the window seems to be more painful. We have been taking turns to watch the TV but somehow get spiritless after an hour or so. We all try to stretch perhaps every two 

hours to prevent the tailbone from curling. Sigh...

This weekend we tried to socialize a bit more. When the lockdown had started we all made apprehensive calls, then the calls were more about asking about well being and I feel we make calls to kill time at times. Of course the working calls aren't counted in them though. We made video calls to add extra more minutes because when we see faces it adds many more things to discuss apart from the virus and groceries.

This morning my elder one refused to have any kind of breakfast that was offered. He gently dissented that he was quite exhausted of cereals, breads, 'poha', 'upma'. I could feel his anger but I was confused too. I am also running out of options but refused to revel that to him. I tried to make something for him which eventually cheered him and thus my morning was salvaged. Okay, if you ask me, let me tell you it was nothing but my own version of pancakes. It had good amount of eggs and butter. Now promise me if you go through these lines you won't tell him. Secret! Mothers are so good with hacks you see.

After the morning storm at the table we moved to lunch. Nobody asked me anything but I was feeling lackadaisical too. The weather outside was enough to make anyone feel passive. I just pulled out some chicken from freezer, marinated it and cooked it with minimal spices but made sure it was a bit spicy. There was no complaints from anyone instead everyone went for a second round and secretly I smiled. Lunch sorted too. Sigh!

I won't be writing about dinner to bore you but yes dinner went off peacefully too. This is one of the many days when rains have been like a comatose to our lives. We have ordered our books from the library and this is the highlight of the day. My elder ones was waiting when he could get hold of a few books but surfing himself through the library books in person has to wait for a while. As of now we can just order and patiently wait for pick up notification. We aren't aware of the new rules yet. Let wait. Life is going to start in a new way soon. New set of challenges and new rules of living it. Let's hope we all adjust to it....

Tiffin Tales115

Hola...

It's another day of mixed weather and emotions here. The sun wants to shine bright but the clouds seem to over shadow the sun. The quarantine days now seem to be never ending. While we understand the significance of staying indoors, yet now we are praying hard for the hard times to end soon. We certainly have no idea but we are trying to hold on to hope as hard as we can.

Hope is just a four letter word yet gives so much strength. But it should not be confused with expectations. Expectations gives birth to many unwanted emotions in life. The most feeling it gives back is 'disappointment'. We keep expectations from so many people, situations and from the universe but more often than not we do not receive the same and run into other negative emotions. Let's try to understand (from my view point) expectations in a bit detailed manner.

1. Expectation can be like a linear equation. We dream, we plan and expect things to follow a certain route but things can follow its path resulting in pain and disappointment. We plan to go on a vacation, wear the dress we wanted or go to meet family and friends after a gap and make tons of memories. Things may or may not happen and these situations there could be subset of another set of emotions. One, we are constantly stressed to make every moment perfect or planning something with everyone that we completely miss out on the present  situation or second where things do not turn out the plan we had planned. Either ways something seems to be missing. But why? The situations didn't turn out as per our expectations.

2. We expect from everyday life too. We expect our spouses to be back home on time, expect the kids to excel in whatever they do, the dishes to turn out excellent everyday and perhaps the selfies too. These can be hard at times. There are both good and bad hair days so does everything else. We have to master the art of being kind to ourselves.

3. Expectation from people around can be certainly the most killing of all. These days the social media adds lot of belabor in our lives. The perfect dress, the perfect pose, the perfect lines and million people liking them. There is nothing perfect in this world. We expect people to discern us, love us exactly the way we want and this is a HUGE cause of disappointment in us. We trust people with our secrets, feelings and with money too and when they aren't reciprocated we feel crushed. The society expects us to grow in a certain way, achieve something, get married, have kids within a certain age bracket and raise them dynamically. Whatever big or small act we do, try to reduce the level of expectation, it certainly saves the heart.

4. As you try to curb your own expectations, try to give the same vibe to others too. Don't let people expect perfection from you. We all are fallible to circumstances so try to have a realistic approach that things can go wrong at your end too. We can have genuine reasons for not turning up at social functions, or missing the deadline at work or missing to call someone as promised. Give people the chance to figure out that things aren't smooth at your end too. 

5. Learn to prioritize your work. Works aren't just restricted within the office cubicles. We all work at different places and paces but good organizing skills helps to streamline at least a few of the things. If you feel you are overwhelmed with work, it's always prudent to seek help. Ask help from spouses, children, friends and neighbors. There will be someone who can help you to straighten things when they don't seem to.

6. Always take into consideration that plans fail, strategies mess up and life throws that curve ball. Be prepared for rains even on a sunny day and when it rains it pours too. Problems can pour from all corners hence try to keep calm.

7. Life is a journey of possibilities and expectations and emotions. While there are no specifications or any theorem to follow the basic formula remains same. Live it, face it and keep a check on our emotions and expectations.

My long post will be incomplete if I don't mention it here...My older one is expecting me to bake something and I will try now. I hope he doesn't keep his expectation too high here ;)

Tiffin Tales 114

Hola Friends...

Wishing all the mothers all over the world a very Happy Mother's Day. May you all be blessed with good health, positivity and more strength to endure all the battles that come your way. I am sure this year is a unique way to celebrate this day amidst such a world crisis. No one on this planet had perhaps ever dreamt that we would all be singing, dancing, cooking, baking, clicking, crying or missing our mothers  sitting right inside our homes.

We all have our ways to celebrate our mothers love in different ways and in different forms. I am sure most of the mothers would agree that everyday is a children's day for the mothers and many celebrate their mothers almost everyday in whatever they do. A mothers love is from heart and not from womb and it reflects in every sphere of life. A woman can be a mother to her biological child, her adopted child or even to strangers child. There is a mother in every woman and its just the circumstances which brings out the feature to the fullest.

Some are very lucky to get their mothers love till a greater part of their lives while some just yearn for that. Some live with their mothers till they depart while others count every second till they go to meet them. We are all united when it comes to missing our mothers. Such is the power of mothers in our lives that we never stop missing them and no amount of time spent with them seems enough. I feel at times life starts with mother and never ceases to end even if it be with her memories.

People like who stay away miles away from their families perhaps feel it everyday and every moment. But I count my blessings because I can still see them or talk to them. I dread that day when I will be just left with memories. The womb nurtures but mothers touch and words always soothe and heal. Only one person who will always listen to my complaints and rants without judging much and provide me with options and solutions. So how can it be just one day?

I am not into celebrating these days because I always need an excuse to get some time for myself every single. I always call my mother and try to make sure she is feeling loved and remembered every moment of the day. My kids try to make me feel special though by making a card or baking a cake with their father. We all like to be loved and understood.

There are so many things to write here but I will sign off now. May all the mothers never go through the pain of putting their children hungry to sleep. It almost burns my heart when kids cry for food and mothers feel helpless. May all mothers enjoy motherhood amidst all struggles, hardships, stigmas and shine bright in the lives of her children. May love and gratitude surround her always. My wish and my prayer as I go to sleep now. Enjoy...

Tiffin Tales 113

Hola...

The rains, the clouds, the small appearances of the sun is marking our spring as we look from our window. Today is almost 45th day of staying indoors. While we keep less track of the date but we try to hold on positivity more firmly with each passing day. The world never envisioned of something outlandish situation like this. Human beings are advised to be inside while other species can comfortably enjoy the nature. Such is the anathema of mankind on earth that peacocks are dancing again on a busy road and rivers are flowing minus the dumpsters.

This is all about corona stories. This morning I was reading about a story of a girl. It's random story about a girl through her eyes and her journey. I do not remember her name or may be it could be her pseudonym too. She says a poor girl without much talent and money cannot have real friends in life. She grew up in a very ordinary family and by luck's stroke went to a school which was high by their standards. The other kids who went to that school mostly came from financially strong families. She wasn't academically bright either. The other kids socialized and celebrated birthdays while she never really celebrated her's. She was rarely invited to those parties and no one remembered her birthday too. However she had two friends who used to check with her from time to time. Her house never had too many visits from her friends too. School days passed while she wished for some many things which was so normal for her peers. She walked from her school while other kids waved her from their vehicles. They enjoyed ice cream on summer days but she used to politely put down request when offered. She never threw tantrums at home fearing that her parents would be hurt. She was mostly cornered in discussions because she was not cool in any sense. But she never protested, hid tears and sailed through her school life.

Luck chased wherever she went. All along her educational life she came across many students who liked her, spoke to her but never got too close to her. She couldn't throw any ice cream or pizza party or carry any personal phones to stay in touch either. Affording makeups was bulky on the pockets for her and visiting salons was restricted only for special occasions because her parents asked her so. So her life style choices was funneled down and so was her topic of talks with her peers. When you do not have too many common choices its unmistakeable that people will be just courteous to you. She never complained to anyone. Oh yes, she says she never had any male attention either. Perhaps there were but no one thought of dating her, may be...

Years later when all of her peers have settled in their lives she still reminisces them. These days, courtesy social media it's possible to catch a glimpse of her peer's lives but most of them do not respond to her wishes and pleasantries. She feels again cornered too. They hold important job titles while she is happily settled in her life minus a job. They still ignore her and she is hurt but feels they all were a part of her childhood. Her level of excitement to talk or stay in touch is never matched by her batch mates.

This girl has questioned about friendship rules. Now that when her daughter is growing up she wants to advise her. It is indisputable that some people will always hurt but that should not be a sign of not forming friendship. She has made peace with her life and circumstances. She doesn't feel attached to her friends anymore barring one or two. She juggles between her childhood and her daughter's childhood. She can afford a lot more materialistic things for her daughter which were amiss from her childhood but things are never any parameters for making friends. She repeatedly questions "is having wealth a sign of being a happy friend?'

We all know or have a few friends in our lives that have stood by us through all seasons and weathers and some are fortunate to have them life long. In this fast paced life we all get tied up by various circumstances and it's those few friends who silently walk with us even though we cannot talk or meet frequently.

This story has forced me to think from many levels. How will I manage my kids or explain the consequences if left with not too many friends? Are all friends real? How to distinguish or will time teach them? I am scratching my mind...If you have any pointers, feel free to share.

Till then stay indoors and stay safe....

Tiffin Tales 112

I want to sleep but cannot sleep. I want my dreams to be pleasant but they are not. I want to plan a lot of things but unable to do. I want to write but my words are curling up. I am confused but do not know the exact reason(s). I want to order stuff online but do not get any delivery window open.

As I write these lines I am simultaneously surfing through the websites as to who can deliver my groceries. I do not want to go shopping but don't know how long can I manage without stepping out. I am not sure what these feelings mean but it always feels good to toss the words and dish out to complete strangers.

The weather has been deceitful too. It looks sunny outside but out there its windy and cold. The sunny day still stops me from stepping outside even I though all I want is to take a simple stroll.

It's so easy to complain as I did now but the frontline workers at this moment do not even have time to sit think and complain perhaps. They are working and perhaps overworking and do not get adequate time with their families either. How selfish of me to think of my problems when they are thinking about the masses!

I try to keep my mind at peace by constantly thinking that its's also a phase and we have to sail through. We have to engage our minds which gets challenging at times. So many thoughts keep creeping up time and again and keeping them at bay is a protest in itself.

This morning I tried to meditate. Please trust me when I say it really helps. The thoughts of the welfare of my loved ones who are so far from me disturbs a lot. Meditation didn't answer my fears but calmed my senses to an extent. The day seemed a bit productive too. I chatted with some old friends, cleaned some of the mess which the kids make and I was ignoring from the last few days.

So I am hoping that going forward I will try to meditate everyday for sometime. It will be 'me' time which will lull my thoughts to an extent and answer the unanswered. Try it if you haven't so far. They will be the best moments when you are home and can dedicate time guilt free.

Tiffin Tales 111

Hola,

Okay, so this is the second time that it snowed this week and we are a bit upset about that. Even though we cannot complain because we all have to be indoors yet we said a small prayer for everyone who have to go outside given their nature of jobs.

As most of us are all inside our homes we are spending a major part on the internet precisely in front of any kinds of screen. These screens are our windows to the world. A part of us like to watch news and keep a tab on everything going around. I am assuming a percentage of people like me do keep a track but find it stressful to hear about the virus all throughout the day. As for me, I watch once in the morning and once during dinner time. I follow closely but rest of the time its more online grocery shopping hunt and some binge watching.

This afternoon I read about a story which compelled me to think from some many corners. A lady was travelling by bus when the bus stopped at a stop. The bus was occupied and there was just one spot by the lady seated next to the window. When the bus stopped another old lady got into the bus with lots of shopping bags. The bus driver helped to get in and she took the vacant spot. The old lady was well built and with all her bags it was almost getting difficult for two ladies to share the seats. The other lady could barely move. Seeing the discomfort of the situation an old man stood up and offered his seat to the old lady because he felt that way all three would be able to sit comfortably. The lady by the window seat with a smile politely refused. She said, "Its a small journey, let's all accommodate." The old man understood and smiled. He understood the profundity of the words and went back to his seat. A few stops later the lady by the window got down. Throughout her travel she didn't express any inconvenience towards the old lady thus leaving some memories with the people around her.

Now as I sip my tea and write these lines I try to think about so many things. We cannot accept so many situations in our lives. SO many of us are struggling to sit at our homes. People who are used to race with the clocks are now coping with the new set of environment. There are lots of uncertainties over the present and future and I guess its all a part of our journey. This part of our journey is just to sit back because we have no control over what is going around us. Let us all be considerate and generous which can help us in this journey. We all can do our part and we know the best way to do them. Our ways of helping may be different but the goal is to be of help to someone. If there is no way we can help some, think again. We can help others simply by staying home and reduce the chances of spreading.

Okay, time to finish my tea and plan for my dinner. Its very important part of the day because planning the groceries is highly strategic. If you are working, take rest on the weekends. Most importantly stay safe.

Tiffin Tales 110

Hola...

It's almost a month that we are at home now with everyone getting restless. We all are trying to lift each other's spirit from time and again to escape the flatness of the situation. Reading, baking, watching umpteen cartoons, movies, documentaries and not to forget the news we are trying our best to make our stay at home more colorful. The kids try doing crafts and living area is strewn with papers but I am not complaining because its the result of their productive time...

The world is so mysterious now. The busiest roads and airports of the world are all wearing deserted look. We all are indoors scared, confused and praying hard for these dark days to end soon. The busiest of the restaurants are all wearing forlorn looks. There are no table reservations, no looking forward to the weekend special items. On the contrary most people like me are wearing their heads down to manage with limited options and prepare nutritious meals. With everyone at people it's an added challenge to prepare soulful food with a toned down pantry.

Today is last day of Bengali calendar. This month of Chaitra is supposedly to have vegetarian food. Bengali's do not include onions and garlic in their vegetarian section. Previously people used to consume vegetarian food all throughout this month and on the first day feast with non vegetarian items. Well, we have all crossed those centuries long back and the only day that travelled with us is perhaps the last day of Chaitra. Now people just have strict vegetarian food on the last day and look for benediction. The next day which is the first calendar day is for gorging on sumptuous food items. I remember on the vegetarian day (that's how I say) my mother used to specially make an item with raw jackfruit. I miss it so badly. The memories are still so fresh just like the spring outside now.

Now when the world is such in a disruptive state I miss my parents all the more. I am all the time anxious for their health. I long to go to my home and I do not see that happening soon. I understand there are millions of people all around who right now need many basic amenities like food and medical help. Many people are already without job and money. We all are trying and praying. We are trying to help someone in need in whatever we can. We are praying not just for us but as an entire world. We need prayers and compassion to walk through this crisis.

Tomorrow is the first day of Bengali calendar. We are not preparing anything special. Instead we will be calling people to convey our wishes and pray a little longer. If all goes well, we will collectively celebrate this day with laughter and good food. Till then let's keep praying and sharing whatever little we can. Yes, stay indoors and stay safe.

Tiffin Tales 109

Hola,

Hope this blog finds you in the best of health. We all are anxious now with what is going around and we all are affected in some way or the other. We can express through our words but through the web world mostly.

A lot has changed around us in the past few weeks. People who run to catch the trains are sitting at home to work from their home stations to people losing their jobs in this economic turmoil. People are queuing at the grocery stories at the earliest possible time. We all are apprehensive, stressed and choked with emotions. The market is flooded with information and directives and we are just trying to sail through all of them.

Children at home are confused while the elderly people look blankly outside the windows. We all are restless and scared. The fear has gripped our minds and souls and perhaps taught some valuable pieces of human nature.

Let me share something that I felt this week. Every year my daughter goes to my neighbors house on the eighth or ninth day of Navratri for "kanjak" celebrations. On this day young girls are worshipped in the form of Goddess Durga. They are given something as an offering to the Goddess and a small token of gift. My daughter is too young to finish her plate but we enjoy her plate whole heartedly. This year due to the pandemic I was a bit upset that we wont be able to get the offerings. On the ninth day there was a knock on my door. I was extremely surprised as I wasn't expecting any deliveries or anyone during this time. I was a bit skeptical but by the time i reached for the door my phone rang. My neighbor called to inform me that she kept a plate of the offerings for my daughter. I opened the door and so touched to see that. She had neatly packed it and kept it there and to maintain the distance she left and called me to inform.

I cannot express how I felt. The universe must have heard my babbles that how I missed this. I was so happy and just said a heartfelt prayer. With the situation around us, I considered it to be a sign that all will be fine soon. It's gloomy outside and inside our hearts but let's have the positivity in our hearts that the dark nights will end.

With this thought I am trying to hold my mind and keep my children cheerful. We all can try a bit and help each other walk through this dark times.

Catch you all soon.. Take care

Tiffin Tales 108

Hola...

I hope you are staying safe indoors and trying to help the universe in the best possible way. People who have to step out for serving the country and the mankind in this demanding time have all our respect and gratitude.

It's a new month but with almost with the same set of situation. The world is crippling with virus, debilitated economy, medical emergencies and presenter of gobs of problems. Each new day is challenging our patience, understanding and our compassion.

A major part of the world is in a lockdown mode. The daily wage workers are the hardest to be affected by this lockdown. Their earnings have suddenly halted, their rooftops seems to have vanished and managing for basic food seems to be a herculean task for them. They have suddenly been pushed in darkness without any answers on how to survive. There are people who are affected by this pandemic and waiting to get treatment. At present it's a huge challenge for any government of any country to provide all the amenities to the affected people in such large numbers. No wonder the lockdown is a just step to flatten the steep curve that is rising everyday. New makeshift hospitals are introduced every other day. An army of doctors, nurses and many health care officials are working overtime to help each and every affected person. There are lot of people who are working in the frontline to keep the daily lives of people working smoothly. In my memory they are doctors, nurses, all people in medical fields, people working in sectors like police, fire departments, grocery store workers, mailing departments, transport departments, home delivery people. Please pardon me if I am missing out anyone and don't forget to drop in at the comment section. The services of each and everyone at this critical juncture of crisis is perhaps helping all of us to sail through all the constraints

We all want to rise from this pandemic, enter a new day in our lives free from virus. At home meal planning is akin to annual budget planning. Most of us scared to run to the grocery stores fearing to bump into the virus. Each visit is well planned and the cleaning process following the visit is immense. Hence, all the meals have to be meticulously planned  which includes nutrition and saving for the future days too.

I can go on and on about my series but not at this moment. This lockdown has taught us in more than one ways. My kids have started to be more responsive towards food and expressing gratitude. I am grateful for that too.

Let's all just join hands together, to fight this, to emerge winner and enjoy this beautiful planet. Together we can, we have to win and in this journey spread love, compassion for others to heal and pray for all. Much love to all

Tiffin Tales 107

Hola….

Hurray, for us because these days we are awakened by the chirping of the birds. The days are getting longer and the migratory birds are flying back to us. The high winds do bother us yet we celebrate the fact that the temperatures are slightly higher where we do not shiver.

We all are currently gripped by fear, fear of a virus and the world has named it ‘corona virus’. The virus is rapidly spreading and has shaken the entire world from its core. Everyday, every minute this pandemic is constantly reminding how strong our nature is. We are home confined, we are maintaining social distances and taking every possible precautionary step to ward this virus away.

As we slowly crawl into our third week of social isolation, a lot of things cut across my mind. How a small virus has entirely disrupted our entire lives, stopped many industries, paralyzed a lot of daily activities and to an extent has frozen our thoughts too.

We human beings have thought and considered ourselves to be the finest creation of nature and now nature teaches us back to ponder over this again and again. The gamut of nature is so strong and authoritative and makes us feel so minuscule in this hour of global crisis.

All of a sudden we all have become global citizens and can somewhat feel the pain of fellow human beings. We are taking this pandemic to be a universal problem and trying to deal. Our thoughts and perceptions slowly move towards gloom and despair. We have no idea what the future holds. The clouds of tension is getting thicker and we are waiting for the sun to shine brightly.

Change is such a concept. It always sticks true to its nature. Now nature is the brilliant master and together their compositions have to be followed by all the living beings. With time the change for better situation will be here. Till then we have to build mental strength, lean on to our loved ones, understand and respect the laws of nature and hold on to the faith that ‘every cloud has a silver lining.’

Please follow your local government directives, stay calm and stay indoors. Let’s silently stay by each other’s side by doing our bit and unanimously we will triumph over it.

Tiffin Tales 106

Hola…

Hope the weather and your life is treating you fair enough. If by any chance you follow my blog you would know I mostly write about random things of life. There are many phases of life and a person like me with minimalistic guidance learns every single day. Not everything can be found on internet but life’s lessons has taught me manifold which I am not diving into. 

Today I am not going discuss about my life or my challenges or my perspective about life. It’s been quite some time that I have been living offshore and in these years I have come across many people with reams of emotions and personalities. Almost everyone has had left some impression on my mind which I browse through periodically. This time I am going to discuss about a lady who in my mind is an ‘iron lady’. 

Okay, so it goes like this…..When we moved to this new place and I was a complete out-of-stater, things were onerous. I thought so, perhaps. I was a bit skeptical because my child was going to start full day school and sending by bus was a new concept for me too. Previously I was at his service. Now all the school buses are yellow and it was mystifying for me to an extent. Just like my child my apprehensions settled down too within a week. Now there was yellow bus which used to stop next to my building and only child used to get down and before I could see properly she would enter the building with ‘help’ from her mother. This continued for weeks rolling into months. Gradually I got familiar with other families and realized that she was a specially abled child who was ‘extremely sensitive’ to her surroundings. She is so sensitive that her room has no toys, very dim lights, rarely any visitors and her anger frustration all over the place. 

With time I became more curious to talk to her mother. I wanted to talk not to lend any sympathy but my simple curiosity made me approach her. I could sense that the mother was avoiding me. She overlooked my smile or simply refused to make any eye contact even though there wouldn’t be anyone else on the road. I tried a bit more and on one fine sunny day we exchanged smiles followed by small talks and discussing random things like weather and ticket prices. Hey eyes would show signs of stress and pain. I took time and didn’t want to dive into discussing about her daughter. She surprised me when she said that she was expecting a second child. My mind could not process a lot of questions and emotions together at the same time. I congratulated her and left. A few days followed and I kept enquiring about her health and one fine day she broke down. I tried to pacify her thinking these could have been just hormones playing games. I offered her to come to my home and surprisingly she obliged. I was extra cautious to avoid talking about her daughter but she completely broke down. She confessed her fears. Her daughter who seemed different within a few days of birth. The anxious parents sensed and tried all possible medical help within their limitations. The doctors declared that her growth would be really slow and very different. She would have different pattern of eating, sleeping, socializing (there isn’t any yet) and most of her life she would have assisted living. Even though I had heard about her daughter but coming from a mom who is expecting another almost swept me off my feet. This mother didn’t care for anything else and she lived every moment for her daughter. Her only aim was to make her daughter independent where she is in a position to take care of herself. Her daughter speaks a few words and her mother works tirelessly on her vocabulary building as well. The exhausted pregnant mother never requested her husband to make any delicacy or bring any food from outside. She feared if her daughter demanded and if that food worsened her health. The neighbors have been admissibly good enough to share food and offer help. Her in laws have maintained distance when they discovered the situation. The lady has lost her parents too. I almost went numb….Her daughter used to go to special school and when she reached third trimester she slowed down her school too. We couldn’t go to her home fearing not to disturb her daughter. Soon she gave birth to another daughter. The anxious parents ran a series of tests to ease their minds. It was indeed a test of their perseverance and after a few moths the baby was declared fine. I can add more lines to this story but I am keeping it short.

I have seen this lady all these years. She took care of a special child, still happily doing, swimmed through her pregnancy, gave birth and now raising both of them now. They cannot travel far, go for movies. Parks are the only indulgences for them. This lady has almost forgotten how to put on make up, attend social functions, visit her relatives or go for shopping. She begs for extra time from the universe. Her tears have dried up long time back and she bravely holds on to her smile. Her husband has been her back bone all throughout. Her husband salutes her almost every other day and considers her to be a blessing in his life.

Not just this women’s day but every day I look up to her and consider to be women’s day. My everyday problems fall flat in front of her challenges. With folded hands I pray for her and me. Strength for her and patience for me :)

Tiffin Tales 105

Hello everyone,

We are all towards the mid of February and I am sure the winters have toned down a bit. The days have started to get longer a bit. The sun rays appear a few minutes earlier and stays longer. These days I smell a bit of spring too.

Tomorrow is Valentine's day and no this post isn't about to how to celebrate the day. I am sure by now most of them have planned a bit to celebrate in their own small way. Now what makes me ponder is the fact why do we need a day to express and celebrate. Most of us have that special one in our lives with whom we plan to celebrate. Of course there are ones who have't met or going through a lean phase or do not believe in this concept at all. But to set one day to celebrate love still fills my mind with tons of questions.

Love is a very generic word and it doesn't define just one relation. Love comes form in many forms and all we need just a heart to feel it. We love our families, friends, movie characters and many people who touch our lives in some way.

I remember in my growing years, I was so fond of an actor that I refused to believe that his character in a movie passed away. I loved him a lot, and still do but at that point the tears just refused to stop. Ha ha. I still watch his movies but now with lots of love and warmth. While love can give strength sometimes it makes debilitated too. Many many moons back when I used to go to school there was a grandpa who lived close to our neighborhood. He wasn't in our line of houses but somewhat close by and we had to cross his house when I started going to college. During my school days we didn't meet that often but the route during college used to make me meet him often. He lived with his family of son, daughter-in-law and grand children. Most of the time he used to be seen sitting on his easy chair in the front of his house and talking to passer by. As I became regular, he used to wave at me and soon it became a regular thing. I used to purposely look at the direction of their home to wave at him. A few months I started to talk a few words too. I used to enquire about his health and his medicines. I remember he had the broadest smile. I never saw my grandfather and I grew fond of him. He saw me through my graduation too and soon I had to take a different route of life and destination. A year later I got the news that he passed away and the more surprising fact that I came to know that he couldn't hear well. He used to wave, smile and always say that 'I am fine, all is well'. Somehow that day I cried a lot too. We had no blood relation still I adored him and perhaps loved him too.

Love is both the most delicate and strongest of all feelings ever felt. It gives so much fortitude to the mind and heart that we ourselves get stupefied of our capabilities. Celebrate love in whatever form it may come. Do not restrict your love to human beings only. Animals understand the language of love too. Shower them with love too. They may not give you any flowers but they will give their hearts for sure.

I have no plans of celebrating this day but I am planning to bake a cake that goes well with tea. Now let me find some easy peasy cake recipe while you guys enjoy the day.

Spread love

Tiffin Tales 104

Hola...

I hope you all are doing great in the second month of the year. The first month just whisked by. Most of the people in living in warmer climates like winters so December January are their most loved months. We all different reasons to like or not like the winters. The ones who face the extreme wind chill wait for the warmer days while the ones who get almost roasted in summers wait to chill in the winters. Irony right?

Wedding seasons mostly take place in winters. The bride in her heavy attire can keep her sanity mostly during the winters. The warmth of the weather and the freshness of makeup are all adored by the bride who looks forward to the special day of her life. We all associate our weddings with a certain color. As I am Bengali we opt for red, maroon or any deep color of that matter. Even if we are the invitees we opt for radiant colors.

Sheila is a woman of mid thirties living her life with her husband and children. She has cordial relationship with her in laws and visits them frequently. Last weekend they had a marriage reception to attend and the kids were excited that their grandparents would join them too. Sheila had saved a saree for quite sometime to be worn at any special occasion. Even though there was no famine of invitations all round the year yet the saree somehow got pushed away amidst the pile. Sheila missed it from her memory and the saree forgot her buyer. As she was trying to dig out something for her daughter this saree popped out. She was both surprised and excited for different reasons. First she found something ready to wear without rasping her brain and secondly this was her favorite color. The saree was a white chikankari with other embellishments which truly was a beauty to be worn at any function.

As normally as it happens, they all got decked up but her mother in law was irked by her choice of color. She sternly said married women should have some color in their dress and not wear plain white. Although Sheila was complemented by her maid who was trying to wrap up the newspaper on the floor and the lady who had come to pick up clothes for laundry Sheila was a bit taken back. Does color define your marital status? Does wearing white bring bad omen? She was confused but the hurried husband man declared that there was no time to change. Sheila was looking gorgeous, her husband whispered too but her smile or glow was robbed off before attending the party.

I am thinking the same. White signifies peace, white signifies purity, white calms the mind and white in my community is associated with mournings too. White lilies are gorgeous but any family wearing wearing white signals death in the family. We worship with white flowers but widows used to wear white too. What exactly does white signify? Still thinking purity? White protects from summer rays and white soothes too. Just like Sheila I too understand that any color added with white gives a more balanced look but simply wearing white is elegant too.

I hope someday like Sheila, I too, find more reasons of wearing white. It will calm not only my mind but others thoughts too.

Since this is a tiffin tale its customary to add a line about my kids lunch boxes too. This morning I packed vegetable pasta  in simple marinara sauce with a dash of grated cheese. I am sure that was gobbled soon. Enjoy your day..Catch you soon

2020 first post

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2020


Folks, hope all have been doing tremendously well. I went into hibernation since a lot has happened in the last six months. I became aunt to twins, my laptop crashed, my parents stayed for a few days with me and what not. There have been fillers with illness, festivals, birthdays. I always missed writing here but my laptop went into denial mode and denied to help me. I lost quite a bit of data for which I almost went into depression. I am glad that finally I get to jot down a few lines here once again.

I became aunt to twin babies and the joy is unparalleled. The experience is so unique seeing two tiny human beings growing together. The madness of the festive season, the excitement of birthday parties, school projects together made me run like a headless chicken all around.

My children have been taking turns to fall prey to the cold weather and this time they took a step forward to get viral germs and spread it to us too.

In the midst of all the precipitance we all grow, we all evolve, we all learn, cry and enjoy through the times, weather and the moments. When my parents left I almost felt a part of me went with them too. Once again I long to meet them and spend some more time and breath a new life into memories.

I will be more regular in writing now that some complicated situations seem to get uncoiled. I hope i will get enough time to pen down a few lines whether or not someone reads it...

Enjoy the moment....