tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88482708226516836682024-03-13T18:52:47.565+05:30 Dreams in my heart......Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-45970839450467755612014-10-17T22:19:00.001+05:302014-10-18T00:07:39.778+05:30A letter to my best friend!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>Dear Best Friend,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>You left today…finally! It’s been
precisely three months since you first broke the news. The news that your
husband is being relocated to London and you will move there for good. At first, I didn’t quite believe you…your sporadic
pranks are to be accused. But in due course, as you shared the development and
the ensuing planning, I was sure about the move…Damn! It was true….very much….and
although it took me a while to get attuned to the fact, somewhere I was preparing
myself for this farewell. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>As days passed by, you got busy
with all the formalities, kids’ vaccinations, visas, and so on and so forth.
Gosh! It’s a agony to shift and double of it to shift to an overseas location. But
you handled everything so well and with such great gusto…yeah…yeah! London it
is, after all! And having spent a few months in UK, I know how it feels when
such an opportunity just knocks the doors!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>After all the essential
formalities came very significant task…Yaayyyyyy! The S word…..Shopping. We
shopped and shopped and shopped….everything that we could think of. You name it
and we bought it. I loved carrying those M&S, Zara, Mango shopping bags
around while you walked like a duchess….that’s one business I would never dislike!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>I still reminisce the first time
I met you. Our sons shared the same class last year and we ended up being a
part of the same whatsapp group primarily created to exchange the school
related notes and other communications. Out of 30 odd members, a bunch of
around 5-6 grew awfully closer through the chats and considering the fact that
we had never met, we decided to meet over a coffee. After casual greetings,
just as we were settling down in the coffee shop, I saw you getting out of your
car in a chick salwar suit with high heeled sandals. Your hair were duly done
up and eyes lined up with kohl giving a boost to your personality. Yes, you looked
no less than a royalty as you walked up the stairs. By the end of that meet, I
had formed my opinions about everyone and especially you. I didn’t think that I
could ever be friends with you in spite meeting you couple of more times in the
school. And that’s the whole point……how did I ever reach a point in my life
where you became my besssttteeessssttttt friend ever. It’s been a little over a
year but it feels like we’ve known each other since ages. You can literally
read my mind and vice versa. You can instantaneously guess my reactions to circumstances.
You can lift me up when I am low. You and only you can handle my idiocy and occasional
mood swings and still love me. You turned out to be a major part of my life…literally….or
shall we say a sister from another mother….!!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>And today you’re gone such far
away. I recognize that technology has abridged the distance deeply…but I am
still gonna miss those never-ending chats until wee hours in the morning. Those
shopping trips exploring the bylanes of Pali Hill, Linking Road and Lokhandwala
markets. Those whole-hearted laughs in rains over paani-puris, those little
things you did for my kids, and those kiddies get-togethers we organized to
sneak a chance to spend time together. Huuhhhhhh! (A long sigh) I am gonna miss
all this. I am gonna miss you, BFF! <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>I wish you all the best for this
move and a new chapter in your life…! Loads of love to your chipmunks! I am
going to miss them too! I am ending this letter with a wonderful quote I found on Google....<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><i>Love forever,</i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-44765696051306854332014-08-18T17:17:00.001+05:302014-08-18T20:22:16.534+05:30Life after break....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Seriously, it’s been a heck of a
lifetime since I last updated my blog. Yes, I’ve been busy with my hands full
but that still doesn’t justify the reason for not updating the blog…especially
when I am so passionate and possessive about it. Well, to put it in a nutshell, lots of things happened over the last 4+ odd months. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My son’s Thread Ceremony
was quite an elaborate affair with dear friends and family attending it in
Goa. Me and Chetan tried to play perfect hosts ensuring that everyone is duly
taken care of. It was a fun week meeting all the family and friends under one
roof. New friends were made, new relations formed and I am glad everyone had a
great time. By the time, it all got over, we were so exhausted and that’s when
our quick vacation to Himalayan Village, Sonapani (Yes, we are simply in love
with that place and we WILL continue to go there…over and over….) came to the
rescue. Ashish and Deepa played perfect hosts making sure we totally unwind
before we were ready to face our mundane routine back. This brief vacation was
a much needed rescue to our tired souls and exhausted bodies. Kids had fun too…for
the first time in their lives, they had witnessed something absolutely
breathtaking. Plucking fresh fruits like apricots, peaches, pears straight from
the trees and eating them. Well, honestly, it’s something even me and Chetan
had done for the first time, too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Come mid-June and we were back to
our routine. The kid’s vacation time got over and before I could blink my eyes,
they were already back to school….in Second Grade! That’s another thing I just
can’t bring myself to term with….the rate at which kids are growing. It feels
just yesterday when I dropped and picked them up from their Nursery across the street
and here they are…all grown up…already in their Second Grade. I guess, that’s
something I will have to live for the rest of my life…although they grow
bigger, smarter and better with each day…somewhere deep down, I still wish for
those babies still in the diapers, crawling on the floor just longing for
attention. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The weekends are just fleeting by….they
just don’t exist beyond the normal grocery shopping, a visit to the market for
veggies, the weekly laundry, lunches/dinners out or a movie. Oh! I just realized
that I pretty much covered everything what one is actually supposed (???) to do
over the weekend. Basically, we both like to do almost the similar things so
there’s hardly any debate over the choices as how to spend the weekend.
However, with my growing bundles of joy, it’s more like a juggling happening.
My son is more like a peace lover. If given a choice, he would spend the entire
day at home lying on the couch or on his iPad than stepping out with us. My daughter
is more of an attention seeker. She’s totally me. Fun loving, outgoing, don’t-like-to-be-trapped-at-home
kinda. Hence, juggling between son’s preferences and daughter’s choices is a
bit of a challenge for us these days. But I guess, if we manage tactfully, we
can still steal a few more years to dictate our terms and get the things moving….So,
here’s to parenting….parenting of the Twins…parenting of Twins with different
choices!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And just before I say bye...Here’s
a short incident that happened at a Mall yesterday where we spent our leisurely
Sunday evening. While the boys stood in the line for the movie ticket, daughter
and I decided to just sit and watch people. We happened to grab a seat bang opposite
the store ‘Lifestyle’… After she watched consistently at it, she just popped a
question out of nowhere… “Mamma, why are some people going in that Lifestyle
while some choose not to go?” I was a bit startled at her out-of-nowhere-question and before
I could collect some ideas to answer it to her satisfaction…she just screamed… “Oh!
I know it… The people with Style in their Life, go in the Lifestyle and people
who have no Style in their Life, choose not to go in the Lifestyle…” OMG…I didn’t
know how to react to it….but the lady sitting next to me, certainly did. She
stood up and extended a warm handshake with my daughter and said..”Young Lady,
I don’t know about the people you are referring to…but you certainly will have
lot of Style in your Life…” While she left with her own sweet daughter, I
couldn’t help see my daughter blushing at her remarks….</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Today’s kids…I tell you…..</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-46003814289241444812014-04-12T13:43:00.000+05:302014-04-12T13:44:24.622+05:30Happy Birthday Chipmunks!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Today is my Chipmunks' birthday and I wish them health, wealth, success, loads of love and prosperity! </i></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Love you Akshat & Aashvi...here's a birthday song I found that I am sure you'll enjoy watching....:-)</i></span></h3>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-41712447885546313062014-04-09T16:29:00.003+05:302014-04-11T11:43:22.375+05:30Long time no see!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Yes, it's really been quite a long time! However hard I attempt to stick to my pursuit of updating my
blog regularly, I, one way or another, fail to stick to this commitment! More
than you, I should be seeking my own mercy which doesn't sound that cool!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Things have been stirring at a melodramatically faster pace.
Although, we let go of the plan to shift home for the time being, there are
oodles of other tasks that were nippy enough to brawl for the top slots on the
to-do list. For those who are not aware, we have planned (or rather still
planning) a function in Goa to mark the Thread Ceremony of our son. We
hope to keep it quite a homely and private event as he isn't too comfortable amongst too many unaccustomed faces. And because it’s HIS day, we have
made it obvious to respect HIS feelings. It’s in May, and I am already dreading about how hot and humid Goa will be by then considering I've already had an extreme spat with it just this weekend. With all that holy fire
around, the people and the weather…God help me in dealing with my little man!
Trust me; he’s one hell of a monster when it comes to crowd, heat and rush!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Planning, as I said, is still underway. Just finalized the venue
decorator this weekend and I must say man...it does cost a bomb! However, many things are still in the To-Do list. Hubby is no good when it comes to assisting in all these
matters. I am glad he lent a hand while dealing with the most important
task…the saree shopping! I guess, he feels that it’s the only agenda that takes such a function to its own sweet end. And Hubby, if you are reading this…No, it doesn't…there are million other stuffs that I am single-handedly dealing with and
you have absolutely no idea about…..(Well, I can say, I prefer to keep it that way....remember the old saying? Too many cooks spoil the dish??? Yes, exactly.... :-)</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Kids are back in school with a brand new academic year…a sleek new
classroom, new friends and most prominently new teachers. Daughter is pretty
excited and happy with her new teacher…well, Son takes time to adjust to
anything that’s new and a new teacher is just another human…wish she had a
remote control with her to tickle his ‘interest’ bones!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">One advantage about not moving the home is you get to keep your
old, obedient and honest staff. I was so anxious about the cycle of
finding-trying-liking-changing-maids and I am so happy that I will not have to
go through it all over again! But yes, kids will spend a little more time in
travelling to school which was the foremost motive behind the decision to move.
I guess for every little pleasure, one has to pay the price. For right now, I
am gratified with wherever I am and I hope that any move, if there is at all,
will be for the better!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRc3Jg-uoKA/U0Un3VHi8XI/AAAAAAAAO2o/kAhwItBrdwg/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRc3Jg-uoKA/U0Un3VHi8XI/AAAAAAAAO2o/kAhwItBrdwg/s1600/images.jpg" height="200" width="121" /></a><span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Yyyyaaaaaaayyyyy! Its kids’ birthday this weekend. Can’t believe
they’ll be seven! Seven exquisite years spent with them with most beautiful
memories to cherish! They’ll grow bigger and brighter with each passing year
but for me and Hubby, they’ll always be little bundles of joy that were handed
over to us on 12<sup>th</sup> April, 2007! No one can ever take away that
moment from us! Something that’s too priceless to even share! We have nothing
special planned for them this year but we do want to do whatever they wish on
their special day –even if that means swimming in the beach at 2 o’clock in the
afternoon under sweltering sun! God bless the chipmunks and their weird wishes!</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">See you soon! Have a great week and then the weekend and then
the week again and then the weekend again……! Well, you know what I mean..:-P</span></i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-77837836177758491182014-02-11T12:55:00.000+05:302014-02-11T13:31:13.450+05:30A busy trimester! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">With kids’ final exams, come other
associated undertakings like projects, assignments and loads of other stuffs. I
am surely not grouchy about them as I really enjoy myself being a part of these
activities. When I was a kid myself, I remember spending a lot of time and
efforts in researching, collecting pictures, etc. to complete these projects.
Today, life’s become laid-back with Google at our service. At a click,
you get the information, pictures and everything that you need. Jai
Google Baba ki!!</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CqWRvboHRHI/UvnS-8bB8rI/AAAAAAAAO1c/ep5bNsMo7cg/s1600/final_exam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CqWRvboHRHI/UvnS-8bB8rI/AAAAAAAAO1c/ep5bNsMo7cg/s1600/final_exam.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a><span style="color: purple; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Kids finals are scheduled during the
first week of March and if you are thinking that it would bring some respite to
me…hold that thought right there! There are loads of other activities in
planning stage… shifting into a new place is the first one. And just while we
would be settling down there, approaches their birthday which I have been
‘informed’ would be quite an affair with all their friends from school. Bingo!
After the birthday, it’s time for son’s ‘Thread Ceremony’ which is planned in
Goa in the month of May. So, I’ll be spending a considerate amount of
time in Goa before the function tackling plentiful preparatory
activities. And as Hubby plans to join in just a day prior to the
function, it’ll be a solo show.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S7dKIRpUqEQ/UvnR6r8VOxI/AAAAAAAAO08/MrxQqCSzOV8/s1600/DSC_0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S7dKIRpUqEQ/UvnR6r8VOxI/AAAAAAAAO08/MrxQqCSzOV8/s1600/DSC_0156.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">After the ceremony, we plan to head
straight to the Himalayas to unwind ourselves after all that hustle bustle.
Yes, we’re heading to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/himalayanvillage?fref=ts" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Himalayan Village</span></a> at Sonapani. Yet
again! Kids just love that place and it was their appeal to spend some time
there which we decided to honour. We have been told by the owners that June is
the best time to visit as their orchards will be thriving with fruits like
peaches, apples, oranges and so many others that kids can enjoy! So, we are
highly looking forward towards this trip. I am, particularly, looking forward
to the peaceful atmosphere, the clear blue sky, the enthralling Himalayas that
I can park myself and watch for hours and the home-cooked and absolutely tasty
meals and deserts. Now that I know the surroundings pretty well, an idea of a
lone and peaceful walk cannot be ruled out, too.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Aaah! I hope that by the time we are back to Aamchi Mumbai, we all are super charged up to resume our daily lives!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Will post more updates as soon as I am
ready!</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">See ya!</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 11.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-34562701769867863012014-01-31T20:38:00.003+05:302014-01-31T23:39:21.607+05:30Motherhood:Part II<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Few days back I had a post on my Facebook
page. It read as below:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">“</span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Many a times, I feel totally irritated
sitting with kids and helping them in their studies. My patience is at its peak
when any of them takes a longer time to understand any concept. I get upset
while I am at it but when I tuck them in bed at night, I feel terribly guilty...feel
like a monster mom for not handling the things properly. Gosh...it's like an
emotional turbulence within me. As Moms, are you girls facing the same or it's
just me???</span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">”</span></i><i><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Yes, I meant every word of it. I am feeling that I am losing
out on something. I am feeling that my patience levels are suddenly dropping. I
have a feeling that I am turning into an insane and oblivious human being</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">…</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">.a Monster Mom!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Kids are growing up and so are my duties and accountabilities
as their Mother. They are no longer nappy-happy broods. Their interests are mounting
beyond my judgements. Their hobbies are altering with each fleeting moment.
Their vocabulary is sky scorching every minute. Their reactions, retorts,
jargon, lingo and ever fluctuating moods</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">…</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">their inquisitiveness, their exasperation and their outlook
makes me brood over whether I am sinking in my futile efforts in coping up with
their intensifying sensibilities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">All this strongly makes me believe that I am entering a
second phase of this journey called Motherhood. Kids want to be treated as one of us</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">…</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">more specifically as Adults. They demand
that their opinions be considered while taking any decisions involving them. Their
privacy be respected, their choices be honoured and most importantly they be
treated with lots and lots of esteem. </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Things are really changing</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">…</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">or should I say they're </span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">already changed beyond one</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">’</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">s imagination. Until I was well past my
schooling, I just don</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">’</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">t recall a single thing bought for me
entirely by my choice</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">…</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">well, my mom always had a final say in
what I would wear, which colour would suit my personality the best, what
hairstyle will look good for my face cut or even whether I should participate
in events at school or not. Well, today, I am being </span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">‘</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">informed</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">’</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> that a </span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">‘</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">certain</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">’</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> kind of dress is on the next </span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">‘</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">to-shop</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">’</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> list, a crave for a McD meal over
weekend or even where to go for the vacations. Whoa! All the innovation in the
technology, the remarkable progress man has made over these years and the exposure
these kids have today is finally taking a toll on Mothers</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">…</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">that</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">’</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">s the final word!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">So, here</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">’</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">s to all those brilliant Moms out there
who are screaming their guts out to ensure a childhood their kids will always
be proud of</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">…</span><span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">.you rock, Babe! Nothing and no one can
beat what you do!</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Cambria, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
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<span style="color: #37404e; font-family: Cambria, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><i>Sharing here some wonderful quotes I found on Google..... :-)</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUX-iaGI-Pg/Uuu7vRZ_LuI/AAAAAAAAO0Y/KfjH15H54rw/s1600/mother.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUX-iaGI-Pg/Uuu7vRZ_LuI/AAAAAAAAO0Y/KfjH15H54rw/s1600/mother.jpg" height="147" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJQv-HdY_9o/Uuu7v23tUeI/AAAAAAAAO0k/QnMOnFcZ0uo/s1600/Super-Quote-4-x-6-682x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJQv-HdY_9o/Uuu7v23tUeI/AAAAAAAAO0k/QnMOnFcZ0uo/s1600/Super-Quote-4-x-6-682x1024.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-59428726000408431552014-01-04T18:07:00.000+05:302014-01-04T19:24:46.099+05:30Christmas 2013!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well...this post should have come before the 2013 ended but true to my legacy, I am late with this one...so, please excuse...</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sharing here some snaps of our Christmas celebrations. Some of you must have already seen these through Facebook.</span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3zTmX8J83E/UsfgcsR7xCI/AAAAAAAAOrQ/zVOj1pWi0Qw/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e3zTmX8J83E/UsfgcsR7xCI/AAAAAAAAOrQ/zVOj1pWi0Qw/s400/DSC_0012.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing in the queue for the fun to begin....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xr3wd-5FrW8/UsfgQROHmaI/AAAAAAAAOrI/SwpODsQPERk/s1600/DSC_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xr3wd-5FrW8/UsfgQROHmaI/AAAAAAAAOrI/SwpODsQPERk/s400/DSC_0016.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whoa...I am all for it.. :-)</td></tr>
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<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmvv5gvMDA4/UsfgnQSUcSI/AAAAAAAAOrY/rTYzoawUoTs/s1600/DSC_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xmvv5gvMDA4/UsfgnQSUcSI/AAAAAAAAOrY/rTYzoawUoTs/s400/DSC_0022.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And the fun begins...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QCjqPeXZUw/Usfh3XNKAKI/AAAAAAAAOsI/VECCIFLut24/s1600/DSC_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4QCjqPeXZUw/Usfh3XNKAKI/AAAAAAAAOsI/VECCIFLut24/s400/DSC_0026.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Am I not total Christmassy??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oljFZJD3wQo/UsfkOrAGqQI/AAAAAAAAOtE/oGKZAkIUL6A/s1600/DSC_0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oljFZJD3wQo/UsfkOrAGqQI/AAAAAAAAOtE/oGKZAkIUL6A/s640/DSC_0057.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our favourite!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvg5almhbA8/UsfjGbwSXpI/AAAAAAAAOss/93O9oDYW3N4/s1600/DSC_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvg5almhbA8/UsfjGbwSXpI/AAAAAAAAOss/93O9oDYW3N4/s400/DSC_0054.JPG" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some snacks after the games</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aO-9iSNokhI/UsfijTwWmuI/AAAAAAAAOsk/jOvk85zVzFA/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aO-9iSNokhI/UsfijTwWmuI/AAAAAAAAOsk/jOvk85zVzFA/s400/DSC_0053.JPG" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank God for the Frooti!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0aBSndR_H7s/UsfjIa9nHxI/AAAAAAAAOs0/DOyvogl8RUw/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0aBSndR_H7s/UsfjIa9nHxI/AAAAAAAAOs0/DOyvogl8RUw/s400/DSC_0048.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such discipline I tell you :-P</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jl6idm5lmQw/Usfh12kPsAI/AAAAAAAAOsA/meco4cmYWNI/s1600/DSC_0043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jl6idm5lmQw/Usfh12kPsAI/AAAAAAAAOsA/meco4cmYWNI/s400/DSC_0043.JPG" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What is it that I am missing on?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YRW4G9PN4U/Usfhpm5BoPI/AAAAAAAAOr4/vTg-w5EILho/s1600/DSC_0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="321" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YRW4G9PN4U/Usfhpm5BoPI/AAAAAAAAOr4/vTg-w5EILho/s400/DSC_0039.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our favourite pose :-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xtu39wHyG_g/UsfhaUnbKRI/AAAAAAAAOrw/5ESdiWU3RC4/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xtu39wHyG_g/UsfhaUnbKRI/AAAAAAAAOrw/5ESdiWU3RC4/s640/DSC_0037.JPG" width="348" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We decorated this.....!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xSjI-_tadg0/Usfk-NjdQXI/AAAAAAAAOtU/asamBPLGiVY/s1600/DSC_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xSjI-_tadg0/Usfk-NjdQXI/AAAAAAAAOtU/asamBPLGiVY/s400/DSC_0058.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We love this...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcJf_kxjaDg/UsfkwVuwFGI/AAAAAAAAOtM/fCdk0QceLQs/s1600/DSC_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcJf_kxjaDg/UsfkwVuwFGI/AAAAAAAAOtM/fCdk0QceLQs/s400/DSC_0060.JPG" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such pleasure..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfpH-NYLACI/UsfmFw99yNI/AAAAAAAAOuE/DgcP153_cg8/s1600/DSC_0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfpH-NYLACI/UsfmFw99yNI/AAAAAAAAOuE/DgcP153_cg8/s400/DSC_0062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't it cute?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yVGwvZMpXCw/UsfmmkQDldI/AAAAAAAAOuY/uuyY_yRVSNg/s1600/DSC_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yVGwvZMpXCw/UsfmmkQDldI/AAAAAAAAOuY/uuyY_yRVSNg/s400/DSC_0073.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Singing carols...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UOyz3iw6j7g/UsfmHaB-9WI/AAAAAAAAOuM/7vlBHbmtg74/s1600/DSC_0077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UOyz3iw6j7g/UsfmHaB-9WI/AAAAAAAAOuM/7vlBHbmtg74/s400/DSC_0077.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I am at my favourite activity....modelling for Mom!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_OmiNMWzjFA/UsfnFaWg9LI/AAAAAAAAOuw/70Sf-v4zNbU/s1600/DSC_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_OmiNMWzjFA/UsfnFaWg9LI/AAAAAAAAOuw/70Sf-v4zNbU/s400/DSC_0078.JPG" width="342" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this a good pose?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DROhm0xMuus/UsfnkLe_prI/AAAAAAAAOu4/nSC80f4YRLE/s1600/DSC_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DROhm0xMuus/UsfnkLe_prI/AAAAAAAAOu4/nSC80f4YRLE/s400/DSC_0081.JPG" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh! C'on..I am just tired!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YObGjSdLErk/UsfoTmPaXNI/AAAAAAAAOvQ/JEjtzEYU9Yg/s1600/DSC_0099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YObGjSdLErk/UsfoTmPaXNI/AAAAAAAAOvQ/JEjtzEYU9Yg/s400/DSC_0099.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ornaments at our home..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgxsEDmVdvM/Usfoyz5lMoI/AAAAAAAAOvc/zyZ9rKSE6Sg/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgxsEDmVdvM/Usfoyz5lMoI/AAAAAAAAOvc/zyZ9rKSE6Sg/s400/DSC_0100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Merry Christmas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sai5osBpI0/Usfp-oIq_8I/AAAAAAAAOwQ/1mJjkDYeCxg/s1600/DSC_0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1sai5osBpI0/Usfp-oIq_8I/AAAAAAAAOwQ/1mJjkDYeCxg/s400/DSC_0107.JPG" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute Little Fairy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OVBAc86s0gU/UsfppehPhsI/AAAAAAAAOwE/xDCLRlO7BTA/s1600/DSC_0105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OVBAc86s0gU/UsfppehPhsI/AAAAAAAAOwE/xDCLRlO7BTA/s400/DSC_0105.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So nice...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VjOrR2zqxhs/UsfpObMpg9I/AAAAAAAAOv8/vzfU9SsB6aw/s1600/DSC_0102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VjOrR2zqxhs/UsfpObMpg9I/AAAAAAAAOv8/vzfU9SsB6aw/s400/DSC_0102.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't it cute?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">There are loads of other pictures too but I shall resist my temptation of publishing them all here....But I warn you that you'll see a lot more of my pictures in 2014 as I seriously intent to click and publish some of the best shots....!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">On this note....see ya soon!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-15227635890633046982014-01-04T15:06:00.000+05:302014-01-04T15:36:04.438+05:30Happy 2014!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">2014….yet another new
beginning….yet another fresh expedition…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">I would like to start this New
Year with a small appeal…</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "French Script MT"; font-size: 22.0pt;"><span style="color: magenta;">God grant me the
serenity to<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "French Script MT"; font-size: 22.0pt;"><span style="color: magenta;">Accept the things I
cannot change.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "French Script MT"; font-size: 22.0pt;"><span style="color: magenta;">The courage to change
the things I can.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "French Script MT"; font-size: 22.0pt;"><span style="color: magenta;">And the wisdom to know
the difference.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span style="color: magenta;"> -Reinhold
Niebuhr</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;">I am not somebody who stalwartly
believes in making the resolutions at the commencement of each year. It’s not
that I never practiced so…Of course, I did! However, I soon recognized that
most resolutions meet a disastrous finale….some gets just overlooked over the
period while some just gets out of the memory lane and the lingering ones are
just given a clean miss over other urgencies… In all conscience, I have
experienced all of the above and hence I do not make any resolutions and take
life the way it’s thrown upon me. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;">We had a fabulous Christmas
vacation with my Mom joining in from Goa. Kids were exhilarated to be with
their Aaji and so did she. Those 10 days were truly remarkable as both of them
could spend some quality time together. Well, as far as I am concerned, I have outdone
the age of being ecstatic at my Mom’s arrival. It’s not that I don’t like her
being around…I certainly do. However, I like to find pleasure in doing things
which at times she doesn’t favour. And the real awkwardness is born when she
finds it tough to express it. My relations with her now are more like soul
mates than mother-daughter. We discuss the entire world under this moon may it
be from her job to my maids to what-she-should-be-wearing-for-a-function….And I
love it that way. Well, I love her and I
wish her a very healthy and happy life.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;">Now that the schools have
resumed, I am back to the grind….and so are the kids. I am hoping that 2014 will motivate me harder
to keep up to writing and updating my blog in addition to my other assignments.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wf5-j27E1UY/Usfc4Z_-9cI/AAAAAAAAOqk/vNx_A6uNldg/s1600/10012-new-hope-new-beginnings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wf5-j27E1UY/Usfc4Z_-9cI/AAAAAAAAOqk/vNx_A6uNldg/s400/10012-new-hope-new-beginnings.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: blue;">Have a wonderful 2014!</span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-2287716204982361292013-09-28T13:57:00.001+05:302014-04-17T12:16:36.467+05:30एक हितगुज..माझं माझ्याशीच! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>खूप दिवसांपासून एक खतरनाक विचार माझ्या सुपिक डोक्यात घर करून होता...आपण काहीतरी, एकदा तरी मराठीत लिहावं असं खूप खूप मनापासून वाटत होते. पण तसं करायची हिम्मत एकजूट होतंच नव्हती. पण आज म्हटलं काही तरी खरंच लिहून पाहावं...निदान प्रयत्न तरी करावा...नाही जमलं तर द्यावं सोडून..त्याच्यात काय? पण निदान प्रयत्न केल्याचं समाधान आणि सुख तरी अनुभवता येईल. </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>मराठी हा माझा तसा फार काही आवडीचा विषय वैगरे नाही पण शाळेत दहावी पर्यंत ह्या विषयात सर्वात जास्त मार्क मी कधी सोडले नाहीत. त्यामुळे ह्या भाषेशी एक वेगळंच नातं निर्माण झालं होतं. पुढे एका मराठी कुटुंबात लग्न होऊन मुंबईला आल्यापासून तर ह्या भाषेचाच आसरा होता. पूर्वी नवीन लग्न झाल्यावर बऱ्याच जणांनी विचारलं की मला एव्हडं मराठी कसं बोलता येतं! पण बऱ्याच जणांना अजूनही माहित नाही की गोव्याला मराठी हा एक विषय असतो आणि बहुतेच कोंकणी बोलणारे सगळेच मराठी पण फार सफाईदार पणे बोलू शकतात.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>माझी मराठी काही एकदम कुशल पातळीवरची वैगरे नाही पण तरीही चेतन एव्हडी वर्ष माझ्याशी यशस्वीपणे संवाद साधतोय म्हणजे जरा तरी चांगल्या पातळीवरची असली पाहिजे...नाही का? अजूनही बऱ्याच ठिकाणी बोलताना कोंकणीचा अंश जाणवतो... अजूनही माश्या आल्या म्हणायच्या ऐवजी मूस आले हे अगदी सहजपणे तोंडातून बाहेर पडतं. अजूनही घरातल्या कामवालीला मुग भिजत घाल म्हणताना कुठेतरी फुगत घाल म्हणायचा मोह आवरायला बरेच कष्ट घ्यावे लागतात. आणि मग स्वतःवरच चीड येते कि एव्हडी वर्षं झाली तरीही एका भाषेवर आपण प्रभुत्व मिळवू नाही शकलो....पण असो...सगळ्यांनाच सगळंच कुठे जमते, म्हणून तर हे जग चालते....</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>पण आता जेव्हा मुलांना वेगवेगळ्या भाषा खूपच सहज आणि सफाईदार पणे बोलताना पाहते तेव्हा मात्र खूप समाधान वाटते. इंग्रजी भाषा हि आज-काल काळाची एक गरज झाली आहे त्यामुळे मुलं ही भाषा पटकन शिकतात. त्या व्यतिरिक्त त्यांची शाळा इंग्रजी माध्यमाची असल्यामुळे अजून भर पडते. पण घरी जेव्हा ही पलटण माझ्याशी एकदम शुद्ध कोंकणीत आणि बाकीच्यांशी शुद्ध मराठीत बोलते तेव्हा मात्र खूप गर्व वाटतो ह्या मुलांचा. बंगळूरू मधून जर मुंबईला आलो नसतो तर कदाचित दोघे कन्नड पण सराईत पणे बोलले असते. असं म्हणतात कि माणसाला जेव्ह्ड्या जास्त भाषा येतात तेव्हडा तो माणूस विद्वान. त्यामुळे जेव्ह्ड्या भाषा शिकता येतील तेव्ह्ड्या जरूर शिकाव्यात.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>शेवटी मनातली एक इच्छा पूर्ण झाली ह्याचा आनंद आणि अभिमान, दोन्हीही आहे...काहीही झालं तरी मी मरेपर्यंत स्वतःला गोयंकारच म्हणेन पण हा अभिप्राय मराठीतून लिहिताना एक वेगळीच मजा आहे!!! आणि ती मजा मला खूप दिवसांपासून अनुभवायची होती!!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>(ह्या लेखनात अजूनही चुका असू शकतात..कृपया तुम्हाला आढळल्यास खाली कमेंट्स मध्ये त्यांची नोंद करायला विसरू नका.)</b></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-85734462444678716962013-09-26T14:59:00.001+05:302013-09-26T22:49:03.200+05:30The Lunchbox - My first film review!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mTpAfWUT9g0/UkP74M5wFII/AAAAAAAAMSg/a_Lkb2Tnahk/s1600/329411%252Cxcitefun-the-lunchbox-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mTpAfWUT9g0/UkP74M5wFII/AAAAAAAAMSg/a_Lkb2Tnahk/s320/329411%252Cxcitefun-the-lunchbox-poster.jpg" width="224" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Finally watched ‘<b><i>The</i></b> <b><i>Lunchbox’</i></b>. Since I saw
the trailors of the movie, I wanted to catch it anyhow. Besides, the entire cast
of the film was just fuelling up my desire further. I love Irrfan Khan. His
acting has always charmed me right from the <i>Badrinath/Somnath</i>
Twin characters he played in the epic tele-serial ‘<i>Chandrakanta’</i>. Films like <i>Maqbool</i>, <i>Pan Singh Tomar, The Namesake, A Mighty Heart, Slumdog Millionaire, New
York</i> and not to forget <i>Life of Pi</i>
further substantiated his acting abilities and tagged him as one of the hand-picked
actors this industry has to provide. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #274e13;">About the actress Nimrit Kaur, she’s certainly awesome with a very stout
existence on screen. It’s not easy to leave a noteworthy mark especially in the
presence of two biggies, but she’s done a decent job in mitigating her role as <i>Ila</i>. Considering this is her debut film
in a lead role, Nimrit Kaur enticed me with her terrific performance.</span></span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #274e13;">What do I say about Nawazuddin Siddiqui! This man has just wooed me
right from the first time I saw him on screen. He has portrayed strong characters
in films like <i>New York, Dev D, Firaaq,
Black Friday, Gangs of Wasseypur I & II, Kahaani, Peepli Live & Talaash</i>.
In <b><i>The</i></b>
<b><i>Lunchbox</i></b>,
he plays Irrfan Khan’s assistant in his office doing a delightful job and flawlessly
complimenting Irrfan Khan. The duo efficaciously crafts a total mystic on
screen carrying the audience in a different domain.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bBK_auCcig/UkP9MYleHOI/AAAAAAAAMS0/6kTYPp-zd7Y/s1600/The_Lunchbox_Wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_bBK_auCcig/UkP9MYleHOI/AAAAAAAAMS0/6kTYPp-zd7Y/s320/The_Lunchbox_Wallpaper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><i><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Ila</span></i><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
(Nimrit Kaur) is like any other middle-class Mumbai housewife. Her day starts
early and involves the daily doings like getting her only daughter ready for
school, preparing food for her husband who doesn’t seem to have any interest left
in either <i>Ila</i> or their marriage, laundry, shopping, etc. She’s intensely alone. Call it a blunder, fluke
or sheer fortune, one day the lunchbox is not delivered to her husband but
reaches the desk of <i>Saajan Fernandes</i>
(Irrfan). This lunchbox brings certain passion in this widower’s lonely life. <i>Saajan</i> tastes the flavours of love after
years of depending on the boring mess food. His soul is warmed by this food. <i>Ila</i> realises that the tiffin she so
dearly packs for her husband is had by someone else but is happy to see it all
clean at the end of the day. On the insistence of her neighbouring ‘<i>Aunty’</i> (It’s just the voice that’s
portrayed and I have a strong feeling it’s of Bharti Achrekar, another noted
actress), she decides to write a note to ‘the other man’ and sends it along
with the lunchbox the next day. <i>Saajan</i>
replies this note and thus begins an exchange of notes on regular basis leading
to a vague bond. <i>Ila</i> and <i>Saajan</i> revive themselves with these
handwritten notes. They decide to give life another chance. </span><span style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="text-align: start;">The
film beautifully deals with depression, isolation and unanswered love. <b><i>The</i></b>
<b><i>Lunchbox</i></b>
is also an ode to Mumbai. You peep into the jam-packed local trains, the
over-crowded buses and the busy roads. It displays how gentle relations and ties
are formed amongst the hustle bustle of the city so well-known to us. The film
also takes you in your earlier years while taking a glimpse of certain scenes
from Doordarshan’s <i>Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi</i>
and songs from <i>Saajan</i>.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JSeKx4UMjW4/UkP9KFGcJ8I/AAAAAAAAMSs/KwBodayuhEk/s1600/The-Lunchbox-2013-Film.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JSeKx4UMjW4/UkP9KFGcJ8I/AAAAAAAAMSs/KwBodayuhEk/s320/The-Lunchbox-2013-Film.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Full
marks to debutant director Ritesh Batra for generating a world so current yet
so ancient. It’s a decent variation to see two people involving over love
letters than SMS’s and Whatsapp messaging. Ritesh also has a robust grip over
the storyline of the film. There are few sections in the film which are a bit stretched
but you are so captivated into the film’s expressiveness that you overlook
the lengthy parts. Ritesh is aided by a talented star cast who uplifts the film
to, all in all, a diverse level. Adjectives nose-dive when it comes to unfolding
Irrfan’s enactment. He hardly speaks in the film and just lets his body do the
talking. Nimrit Kaur is a discovery. She’s the lash of fresh air that’s so
required in our cinema today. She demonstrates all feelings; love, desire, grief
and delight with copious ease. Her efforts seem graceful.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #274e13;">All
things considered, <b><i>The</i></b> <b><i>Lunchbox</i></b> is one of the finest films Hindi film industry has created.
It lifts us a notch higher. Do yourself an act of kindness and catch this film.
And you are cautioned… you might be starving for some good home-cooked food and affection
when the end credits roll.</span></span><span style="color: #4f6228; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #4F6228; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: lumm=50000; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: accent3; mso-themecolor: accent3; mso-themeshade: 128;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-3057098758301075232013-08-24T12:37:00.002+05:302013-08-25T00:05:18.243+05:30Old Habits Die Hard.....!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>When kids are around, it appears
that I am constantly in a hurry…. There’s a mysterious earnestness that circles
me when I see my chipmunks around and I thrust things to conclusion when it’s
really not required.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Yesterday, being Friday, I
could have afforded to be in peacetime. To let the day move at its own pace as
it was the beginning of a weekend. Yet, I cherry-picked to ensure that things
are completed right at their usual pace and time. Kids weren't in a great mood
for the completion of homework, and yet I insisted they finish their homework,
worksheets, assignments…all at one go… even their dinner. And though I love the
way my daughter says…"Raav goh Mamma…falya suti aasa goh..” (Mamma, please relax
today…its holiday tomorrow), there’s a sense of urgency that occupies a better
part of my brains.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>In my quest for excellence and flawlessness
in everything, I feel I am turning mechanical in a way. I just read
a lovely article on Facebook written by a Mom whose entire life
revolves around the words ‘Hurry Up’ and shockingly, I could just see myself
fitting in the bill like a jigsaw puzzle. Weekends are supposed to be for
relaxation and freaking out and yet I seem to hurry up to ensure that all the
activities planned are taken to task at stipulated period. What the heck if we
reach 30 mins late for grocery shopping? No one is going to sue me for it or
there isn’t any time slots dedicated to the shoppers…! And before your brains
start working overtime…NO…I am not insane and neither have I allowed my life to
be dictated by the tickling of the watch. It’s just that I am a stickler for commitments…commitments
made to myself…commitments made to others!<o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>In my house, Fridays are
generally dedicated to one’s own impulses. There are no strict sleeping rituals
for kids. They are allowed to sleep as and when they want. They are even allowed to sleep in our
bedroom, if they wish..which they always do! So, as usual, yesterday I and kids
ended up getting into my bed well past midnight. I was so sleepy that I was
struggling with my eyelids. And yet I didn't want to miss out on the small
little gossips and chatters that kids were into. Suddenly Akshat got out of the
bed and went into the adjoining balcony. I moved the curtains to check what he
was up to at 12:30 in the night. To my absolute dismay, he was just sitting out
there tranquilly gazing at the broad horizon and the stars above. I was just
too inquisitive to know what he was perceiving so meticulously and just
casually investigated. He said…'I am looking at my country, Mamma!’… pointing
out to several activities going around at that time. The flights taking off and
descending at the International Airport that has an unblemished visibility from
my balcony, the Metro bridge that’s still under construction, the dancing
lights of the highways and the cars fleeting by, the people walking on the
roads and not to forget few parents and kids still enjoying the serenity and
calmness of the night-time in the children’s’ park below. This 6 yr old chap,
after a tough day (of course, in his own little way), at 12:30 at night chose
to observe the world around him. Such innocence! Touché… For a moment, I let go
of my inhibitions that it was past midnight and we were well into the
other day and appreciatively joined him in his endeavour. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>As adults, we become so enthralled
in ‘doing’ things that we barely care enough to check how we do those things…whether
we enjoy doing them…whether the same can be done in a more creative way and so on! On contrary, kids reflect much more
creativity in an out-of-the-box mode that sometimes put us to complete embarrassment.
Just like the other day, my daughter asked me in an awfully off-the-cuff tone
while driving back home whether there’s a ‘Nail Fairy’, too! While familiarizing
them to the ‘Tooth Fairy’, it hadn’t occurred to me once that there could be
other Fairies too…Such are the joys of childhood!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>And even while I pen this, my eyes carelessly stroll to check the time
on my pc for absolutely no reason….I guess, this is what is called ‘Old habits
die hard’…!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-11984122765675884872013-08-20T18:09:00.001+05:302013-08-24T14:37:11.684+05:30Rakshabandhan!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">Today kids celebrated Rakshabandhan.
This festival is celebrated to mark the strong bond between a brother and his
sister. It's a solemn promise that a brother makes to his sister to stand
by her, in times required in lieu of a Rakhi that the sister ties on his wrist.
My kids are too small to understand the history behind the celebration. All
they look forward to is buying colourful Rakhis and enjoying the fun while
tying it to each other’s wrists. Typically, a Rakhi is tied by the sister on
her brother’s wrist. However, Aashvi insisted that Akshat should tie a Rakhi on
her wrist too, in return. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: blue; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sharing some of the snaps here…</span></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PBP8_wD43Y/UhNi6G18REI/AAAAAAAAMOc/OxqznT2f3GM/s1600/1098510_10151811826459656_113765171_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PBP8_wD43Y/UhNi6G18REI/AAAAAAAAMOc/OxqznT2f3GM/s320/1098510_10151811826459656_113765171_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EOMW728P5vU/UhNi4h5npyI/AAAAAAAAMOM/SaJRs1OkL1I/s1600/1175660_10151811826959656_25052140_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EOMW728P5vU/UhNi4h5npyI/AAAAAAAAMOM/SaJRs1OkL1I/s320/1175660_10151811826959656_25052140_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_N5vwmyZjeI/UhNi5f2lRUI/AAAAAAAAMOU/2vLAq-v57i0/s1600/1184970_10151811827159656_1443334973_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_N5vwmyZjeI/UhNi5f2lRUI/AAAAAAAAMOU/2vLAq-v57i0/s320/1184970_10151811827159656_1443334973_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eH9uta6IBFQ/UhNi6bluraI/AAAAAAAAMOg/Z5AMHC9sLZE/s1600/1185583_10151811827429656_1687847560_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eH9uta6IBFQ/UhNi6bluraI/AAAAAAAAMOg/Z5AMHC9sLZE/s320/1185583_10151811827429656_1687847560_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span></i></span></div>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>So, here's wishing all a very Happy Rakshabandhan and may your bond with your siblings grow strongest and wealthiest with each passing moment!</i></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-12355288126330008622013-08-12T23:28:00.002+05:302013-08-13T16:28:23.842+05:30The Return...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: Freestyle Script;"><span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;">I am not going
to provide any justifications as to why I </span><span style="font-size: 27px; line-height: 31px;">couldn't</span><span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;"> blog as much as I wanted to.
Well, as I expect you to recognize that there have been whys and wherefores and
other primacies that kept me pretty employed, I could not get into the precise disposition
to blog about anything. Well, now that my life is a bit more rationalized, here
I am.</span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Freestyle Script"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Kids schooling
and all related activities keep me quite on toes. Each evening, as I enthusiastically
wait for their appearance from school, I correspondingly fear the projects that
would follow, the home works that would keep us awake until late night and the Handbook
notes that are, on occasion, hard to read and comprehend. On the other hand, the
excitement of spotting the stars and encouraging remarks on their books makes
it all worth for. Sometimes, when we slog
so hard trying to find the right pictures/information on Google, cutting and
pasting in their scrap books, I sense like I am re-living my schooling through
them. And when I see a star comment on that assignment, I feel so thrilled and naïvely
promise self to do better the next time. Such are the joys of parenting. I’ll post some
of our assignments shortly for you to relish our creativity.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Freestyle Script"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gDWibaWFK9I/Ugkg5FvJnJI/AAAAAAAAMNs/J3ZKdEsDSuk/s1600/photo+(16).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gDWibaWFK9I/Ugkg5FvJnJI/AAAAAAAAMNs/J3ZKdEsDSuk/s640/photo+(16).JPG" width="483" /></a><span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: Freestyle Script;"><span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;">For the </span><span style="font-size: 27px; line-height: 31px;">time-being</span><span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;">, sharing a beautiful picture we clicked on our way to Pune. There are these awesome tiny waterfalls along the stretch near Lonavla which we just could not resist.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: Freestyle Script;"><span style="font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0070c0; font-family: "Freestyle Script"; font-size: 20.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Enjoy the monsoons and have fun!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-45511726466133442532013-03-19T14:23:00.004+05:302013-08-13T16:29:05.763+05:30Between me and Ma!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #38761d;">“You better keep them away from
those computers, iPads and iPhones. I just read an article in the newspapers
today how they harm the delicate minds of kids. I am so thankful that none of
these gadgets existed while I was raising you. Didn't you have a pleasurable
childhood without these things? Why don’t you understand how bad they are? They’ll
turn your otherwise smart kids into junkies. I am not going to tell you again.
Do whatever you want. You are a mother now and it’s your obligation towards it
that you raise your kids in the best possible way……,” Ma shrieked on the phone
and before I could open my mouth to say something, she banged it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">This is not the first time she
has called especially to lecture me about how I am spoiling my kids by allowing
them the access of iPad and computer. While I understand and appreciate her
heartfelt concerns, I expect her to realize that time has changed drastically
since she brought me up and it’s important to be in pace to grow and nurture. I
grew up in a different atmosphere. Although, I didn't have any gadgets to my
fancy, there were a number of other activities/things that never made me look
for anything else. I was growing up in the safe and secure zone without having
to worry about the child molesters and perverts around. In vacations, I would
roam around my entire colony freely without Ma having to worry about my safety.
And those busy days full of outdoor activities never made me realise the absence
of gadgets or even a computer at home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Hf2WrIpBtk/UUgmUL_vxDI/AAAAAAAAMHg/8QFYDc4VHto/s1600/kids-numbers-and-math-collage.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Hf2WrIpBtk/UUgmUL_vxDI/AAAAAAAAMHg/8QFYDc4VHto/s320/kids-numbers-and-math-collage.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Times have changed today. I
freaking worry each day about the safe return of my kids back home from school.
It really embarrasses me beyond your imagination when I ask my kids if anyone
had touched them ‘badly’ during their stay out of the home. I die a guilt-death
each day when I literally take names to bring out things like <i>‘Did Mr Cleaner touch you anywhere apart
from your hand while helping you get in the bus????’ <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">While I agree with Ma that the
time kids spend on these gadgets should be limited, I am totally against not
using them entirely. Technology has advanced in leaps and bounds and what’s the
use if we don’t exploit it in our favour! There are some wonderful apps
available that teach kids to solve Maths or Language puzzles in the friendliest
ways that sometimes even we fail to. So, where’s the harm if they are learning something new
along with some recreation? Yes, I do not allow downloading those car-crashing
games or similar ones but I never stop them from indulging into something that
has an educational or creative value linked to it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d;">I understand that Ma’s concerns
are mostly because she isn't much aware about these apps and all she can relate
an iPad or a computer to is games and more games. With due respect to her, I
think I am going to spend a good part of my stay in her home, during upcoming
vacations, explaining her how great the tool is. And she being a teacher
herself, I am sure, will finally succumb to its heavens. Touché! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-38402691028024930442013-03-15T22:53:00.004+05:302013-08-13T16:29:05.761+05:30Love...too difficult to scout and too busy to note!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<h4>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;">OK... I am going to start with
the same old line....</span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="background: white;">It's been a long since I blogged…. :-)</span></span></i></span></div>
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</span></div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u1:p></u1:p>
</span></span><div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;">Life suddenly seems to have
become extremely busy and rather tedious. As usual, managing 5 yr old set of
Twins pretty much occupies my patience, time, energy, efforts and more
importantly my entire being. And to top it up, I am assigned with an extra task
of hunting a new home that we soon plan to buy and move in. Although I love
doing whatever it takes to fetch me that golden catch (the home of my dreams)
it does keep me on my toes almost all the day. Consistent browsing of the
property sites, listing out and then comparing various properties as per our
prerequisites and budget and not to mention the innumerable phone calls to
agents, brokers, builders to set up appointments for the visit, really has
turned me into pretty much a nerd actually.</span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><span style="background: white;">Amidst this entire hustle bustle, managing to find
some me-time is actually a never ending challenge. Nurturing a hobby, taking a
stroll by the park, going swimming, or even an elaborate and soothing shower
are few among the many luxuries I really look forward to. Sometimes, although
it may sound cliché, I wonder if it’s really that difficult to live a life I am
currently living! How did our mothers and grandmothers survived more than one
motherhoods without compromising much on their sanity, patience and an undying
enthusiasm to manage their jobs, kids and the kitchen. So what, if they
weren’t upset about their cushions not being up right and tight at all times,
didn’t even notice that the toys (whatever little there were) were scattered
around the house and remained pretty much the entire day and sometimes
overnight, didn’t realise the importance of spending quality time with the kids
reading stories or just having some meaningful conversations, didn’t feel the
need to adjust those every (or most) evening visits to the park in an already
busy schedule, didn’t bother about bringing in the variations in the menu each
day, didn’t need to haggle around the house helps (mostly because there were
none…) or worry about making some creative and exciting weekend plans! But hey!
What the heck? All that mattered then was their husbands and in-laws being
happy about the delicious meals that were being cooked, kids were gladly
allowed to blow their noses in the ‘pallu’ of their sarees and most
interestingly their willingness to live and operate out of the secure walls of
the joint families more out of love and passion than compulsion. They certainly
didn’t have to rely on some social gatherings like kitty parties to vent out
their emotions and relieve their thoughts especially when there were other
ladies in the house not just to share the mundane routine and day-to-day chores
but also to share the feelings, joys, happiness and most significantly the
sorrows!</span></span></i></span></div>
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</span></div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u1:p></u1:p>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;">Families have scattered. The
concept of nuclear living has taken over the modern and so called sophisticated
life. The thought of sharing the home with someone as close as your own in-laws
feels and looks like a challenge. I guess some of the disadvantages of
modernised and civilised living…! Well, I can’t expect myself to have a life
that my grandmother did…I rather enjoy some perks that she didn't.</span></i></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnnju9Npoho/UUNY0ArWw6I/AAAAAAAAMHQ/6I3lIhcFV5Y/s1600/81f88695a42459b4f97bfe9c6947e039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnnju9Npoho/UUNY0ArWw6I/AAAAAAAAMHQ/6I3lIhcFV5Y/s320/81f88695a42459b4f97bfe9c6947e039.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;">And in this busy and gutsy
world, we have unknowingly let go some of the basic virtues of our being like
the joy of giving, kindness, empathy, love! Just a day back, one of my Facebook
friends wrote a wonderful note on Kindness. She is a great writer and I truly
appreciate a certain sense in her writing that keeps her readers glued. She
wrote about how little acts of kindness create a remarkable influence of our
lives, in some or the other way. Her note made me wonder how much we have
compromised to be in the space we are currently in. When my kids greet our
neighbours in the lobby or in the lift, I feel so ridiculously proud of them.
Such incidents compel me to value and respect the depth of relationship my
parents and our then neighbours shared when me and my siblings spent the better
part of our days at their home rushing to our own home only for those short
lunch breaks which we would readily give up if opportunities struck. When
my daughter today gifted one of her most beloved, recently bought toy ball to
her friend at the park just because she was moving abroad, I felt very thrilled
about her generosity. But what about those countless occasions when I, as
a child, have done something similar and shared things that were dear to me,
with my friends back then! No one even realised that it’s something worth
noting. Yes, the world is, indeed, changing and whatever repercussions it may
have on our lives, one thing for sure is that we have learnt to value the
things that were once taken for granted. And I believe, that’s not too bad as
it sounds.</span><u1:p></u1:p></i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;">And on that note, I am so glad
that I could finally manage to do what I love doing the most. Blogging. If
nothing else, it better be a hard kick on my butt to ensure that I find some
time to do what I really enjoy.</span><u1:p></u1:p></i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;">Cheers to this boost and the
weekend! Have fun and enjoy!</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="color: #674ea7;"><br /></span></i></span></span></div>
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</h4>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-21593835902009656622013-03-01T22:48:00.001+05:302013-03-01T22:51:57.638+05:30March, here you are!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">And here it arises! I am referring to a brand new month that’s
just begun today – March! </i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>In all conscience, I shouldn't be writing about it but I am
really nervous about this month. It makes me edgy. It’s the amalgamation of two events; my kids annual day and my Pa’s death. Last year, on
March 30<sup>th</sup>, when we were just getting ready to leave for kids annual
day at their kindergarten, I received that awful call informing me about the demise
of my father. I know it’s really injudicious of me to link the two episodes but
can’t help; after all a mother and a daughter that I am!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Well, it’s my kids annual day this Tuesday, March 5<sup>th</sup>
and I really, really plead that all goes well as they are truly enthusiastic
about the event. March, please be decent to me this time! Just read it somewhere that March is the herald of spring, a month of promises and new beginnings. Amen! <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>And for the rest of you, may you have a great month. Some of
you may be busy preparing your own exams or helping your broods with theirs.
All the best to you, whichever category you fall in!</i></span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-65138887051365248002013-02-27T15:47:00.002+05:302013-03-01T22:52:45.651+05:30Women - Burden or Backbone? My reflections....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #595959;">The
below is my entry to the<a href="http://www.indusladies.com/forums/blogs/induslady/8412-indusladies-4th-annual-international-women-page24.html#comments" target="_blank"><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #595959; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #595959; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: "lumm=65000 lumo=35000"; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 166;"> </span></span><span style="color: #595959; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #595959; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: "lumm=65000 lumo=35000"; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 166;">Indusladies
4th Annual International Women’s Day Blog Contest</span></a><span style="color: #595959; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #595959; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: "lumm=65000 lumo=35000"; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 166;"><a href="http://www.indusladies.com/forums/blogs/induslady/8412-indusladies-4th-annual-international-women-page24.html#comments" target="_blank">!</a></span></span></i><br />
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<i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Enough is said and written
about the women liberation and empowerment in this era. Are we really? This isn't directed to a few amongst us who are so-called cultured, classy and
sophisticated; who shops for groceries on-line, splurges on branded stuff,
sends their kids to high-end schools and delights in either a kitty-party or a
day out. Honestly, I don’t mean to humiliate those who are fortunate enough to
indulge into these extravagances but what about those, whom we face each day,
observe them suffering, die a horrifying death each night only to face the
morning with much gusto and yet their feet firmly into the ground of realism
through an abstract power to survive. Yes, I am referring to our maids, those
abandoned mothers at some shady old-age homes, some homeless women roaming on
the streets seeking compassion and benevolence, those little daughters
physically abused each hour and those incalculable girls and women raped every
fleeting second.</span></i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fNEzXl5gQqo/US3PkCYmvWI/AAAAAAAAMFE/TC4h8NDqBUc/s1600/45875d4a806a2e0c6f106379fc925540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fNEzXl5gQqo/US3PkCYmvWI/AAAAAAAAMFE/TC4h8NDqBUc/s320/45875d4a806a2e0c6f106379fc925540.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">A
woman has the greatest supremacy – the power to give birth, the power to take
this human race frontward. And while we may claim that this is her prevalent
forte, there are cases where the same woman is tortured and enforced to abort
the foetus just because it’s a girl - another woman, in a sense! I am a born
optimist. I do believe that women are undoubtedly the backbone of not just
their own families but the entire human race. However, when I read about the
female foetus being dumped in the trash, it irritates me; when I hear about
another woman raped, it enrages me and it’s absolutely sickening when I hear
cases about fathers molesting and abusing their own daughters.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Just
barring a few examples, I believe we have to go far afield in accomplishing
that much warranted deliverance, respect and affection for the womankind. I and
you are perhaps just fortunate to have been born in the non-toxic and
comfy zone we spent our childhood in, to have been married to the man who
respects and cares and to have been blessed with a father, brother or a son who
would lay their own lives to protect us from any odds. But each morning, when I
welcome my maid along with those fresh bruises on her body (courtesy her
drunkard, good-for-nothing husband) and watch her struggle for survival to meet the needs
of her two useless grown-up sons and yet live a life that’s dedicated to
everyone else except herself, my faith in our Goddesses Durga and Kaali shakes
a bit.</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Not
every woman is likely to be Indra Nooyi or Sonia Gandhi or Angelina Jolie but
should that stop her from being respected, valued, appreciated and loved and
cared for? And when each among us is conferred with these basic moralities,
just then we can proudly say that the human race has truly shed that extra
burden and women are without a doubt, the backbone! </span></i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";">Touché …</span></i><span style="color: #595959; font-family: "Georgia","serif";"> </span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-25856213140722657052013-02-25T17:11:00.000+05:302013-03-01T22:52:54.374+05:30A Birth of a New Hobby!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Last week
just zoomed past. The usual kiddies’ stuff, a couple of article
deliverables and more prominently a melancholy of turning 35 pretty much occupied
me wholly. I know, I know. I have already written a <a href="http://celestiallassie.blogspot.in/2013/02/turning-35-happy-birthday-to-yours-truly.html" target="_blank">post </a>and expressed myself about
the same which ultimately helped me overcome its blues. Thank God the
birthday was on Saturday and that gave me a couple of days to recuperate and
face the Monday.</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #990000;">Apart from the
birthday thing, there’s another purpose for this weekend being an extra special
for me. Of late, I've been thinking of investing in a good,
worth-a-while sewing machine. Blame it on the various sewing blogs, Pinterest
and the numerous YouTube videos on DIY Sewing Projects. Sewing is not a
new thing for me as I have grown up watching my Mom sew everything right from
our dresses to her saree-blouses all by herself. Obviously,
she didn't have a high-class-loaded sewing machine so she did whatever
she could with her basic Merritt model, supposed to be quite a legendary brand
35 years back. She had the one that looked similar to the Singer one shown
below:</span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b4Kg4u0_Mnk/UStPSX_gsQI/AAAAAAAAMEY/AAxMGDT0dx4/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b4Kg4u0_Mnk/UStPSX_gsQI/AAAAAAAAMEY/AAxMGDT0dx4/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #990000;">So, coming back to
me, we decided to go hunting for an appropriate model for my personal use.
After a brief research on the internet, I had pretty much made up my mind about
the brand I needed and didn't take long to pick one up. The one I
settled on is Usha Janome Allure. It looks like this…</span></i></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-veLL3m38ObI/UStPWl9a_3I/AAAAAAAAMEg/ti8JMjD9e0I/s1600/usha_janome_allure.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-veLL3m38ObI/UStPWl9a_3I/AAAAAAAAMEg/ti8JMjD9e0I/s320/usha_janome_allure.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #990000;">This
machine is an automatic zig zag sewing machine with two dials for pattern and
stitch length selection and a free arm for circular stitching. It also has four
step button holing and stretch stitching. It has 14 built–in-stitches and 7
applications of which the main ones are - stretch stitching, four step button
holing, button fixing, rolled hemming, blind stitch hemming, zip fixing. Now,
all this sounds a bit too technical but I am waiting for the technician to turn
up and give me a demo before I get into that hobby-mode.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #990000;">So, while I am
trying my hands on something I never thought I would, you guys have a great
week ahead!</span></i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-79854507388660219262013-02-23T23:27:00.000+05:302013-03-01T22:53:00.360+05:30Turning 35! Happy Birthday to your's truly....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">35
feels like a bit. An onset. A new beginning, maybe!</span></i><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>I am turning 35 this weekend and for some
reason it seems to be a bit of a breakthrough. Thirty-five. Five
years since Thirty; Five years from Forty. When I turned Thirty, I barely noticed.
I was yawning in the troughs of nurturing my new-borns. A “milk production,
constant diaper changing, ever baby cuddling, never resting and sleeping” device!
I barely noticed what season it was, leave alone that I had turned thirty. It
seems that ever since I have had kids, my ageing my evolution, my progression
in some way has sort of come to a shrieking standstill. And that’s been tolerable
actually. I have been gifted to pretend I am still 29, the age I was when kids
were born. I have virtually allowed myself believe that everything is just at a
halt, waiting for me to be back into the spectacle when things are much clearer
and the kids are a bit more self-reliant.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>But here it is – I’ll soon turn 35. Age is banging
hard on my door, whether I like it or not. Body mass has redeployed itself – stuffs
around the back have appeared to have slurped through my body and settled down
on the front. I've got some grey hairs, sun burns have become more superficial,
and I can’t concentrate up close while reading quite well as I used to.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>The other factual symptom that my life is
really not at halt waiting for my reappearance is the fact that my kiddos are
growing up. Nothing validates the fleeting time more obviously than children growing
in front of your very eyes. Almost six years have passed by since I have entered
motherhood and also turned thirty, and my growing children have ensured I don’t
live in denial about that realism.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Voilà</i></span></span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>!
As so many do, I am on my way to crank into the-big-thirty-five, reacting
with a squeak when I am reminded about that. Obviously, I am not too happy
about it and do feel sorry for myself. But, what the heck! This defeatism and
self-pity crap is surely irritating, and you know I am not the lone who does
it. Why can’t we just accept this unavoidable ageing progression and the
milestones that compliment it?<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>So to turn it up, and smack some wisdom into
myself, I consider this might be a decent time to take stock. I think to cheer
myself up and truly rejoice this mark of 35 years; I must list all that is worthy
about this phase. So read along as I attempt really hard to get into
the mood and comment on what a marvellous half full glass 35 in reality is.</i></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I
can eventually just be comfortable into my own body. It is what it is! The
genes have already worked their magic and the baby-making is over and done with.
Well, I just can’t jump into that bikini straight away but I don’t need to give
a damn to anyone while picking that maxi-dress at a store.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">By
this time, I have to recognize something. I have to have adequate life
experience that I can be confident about the way the world goes round. And if someone
asks for my advice on anything that I can, it better hold some water.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It wasn't too long ago when I was in a different set of clouds; engagement,
marriage and then the babies before my child-bearing age was over. And now, I've done it! I got that wrapped up. Now it’s time to work out the next steps devoid
of that crazy burden over my head.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Years
ago, before kids were born; I despised to be on my own. It looked senseless and
lonesome and too discreet. Now, I relish some time alone in my own company. To recollect
myself from the past, reflect my own feelings, craft my own outlooks. OK! I
still don’t enjoy flying unaccompanied for too long, but mind you, whatever
little time I get to myself, I savour and treasure.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">At
35, all radio stations are my melodic companions. I enjoy the latest Top 10s as
much as some oldies that I hum since my childhood. These melodies make me feel
that I am still unaffected and when I unknowingly start swaying to the tune of
‘Pehlaa Nasha…’ I know it’s not over yet!</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Grey
hairs on me can be given up for lost as “highlights”. At least I’d like to believe
so. And while we're on the subject, I know a lady who has ‘coloured’ her hair
grey, so you know what I mean!</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I
give a damn to “What Not to Wear…” recommendations! At 35, I still feel like I
can buy those t-shirts with all those funny little messages printed on them and
get off scot-free.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Laugh
lines just proves you've been happy and joyful. And those laugh lines just enhances
your beauty when you smile.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">As
I nurture and raise my adorable Twins, in any case I know that one day, I have departed
from this world with something really worthy and precious. That undeniably
negates any alleged bitching and nit-picking about my age.</i></li>
<li><i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">35
is MERELY 35 and I look forward to more milestones and more achievements.</i></li>
</ul>
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<i style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So, now that I have acknowledged I am at the
refined, intelligent and gratified age, perhaps I can stand my ground and truly
display how I have acquired a clue in future years. Every year onward, I am
going to try very hard not to dwell (“try” being the keyword) on the “ageing”
bit. Surely, enough already, it’s just frustrating. I want to live through it
and keep taking stock and having a good time celebrating those achievements –
big or small. And moreover, I need to get enthusiastic about what I still need
to tackle, learn, rejoice and relish. My chipmunks are growing up and a little
more independent – let’s deal with it, there is so much to accomplish!</i></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>And to conclude, in a casual conversation,
one of my friend mentioned that the day we are born isn't intended for regretting
about our grey hairs and worn-out body parts! Remember, this day is special
because someone heck had a hard time herself to make your entry into this
beautiful world all worth for. Yes! It’s none other than your mother. What else
could be a more earnest occasion than this day to offer her a kind gratitude
for her indeed incredible deed? <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Whoa! We have blessed this world with our
gracious presence, done some really cool things, added value in whatever big or
small way and people have respected and loved us for it. And for those who want
to cheer us on, we have a duty to accept that love, blow some birthday candles
and get on with the party. So, a very very Happy Birthday to yours truly! Happy
birthday to another stage of my life…. A bit more mellowed yet lot more
mischievous!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Cheers to a new beginning!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>(Many thanks to <a href="http://www.womensweb.in/" target="_blank">Women's Web</a> for publishing this <a href="http://www.womensweb.in/2013/02/indian-mom-turning-35/" target="_blank">article </a>on my birthday today! You guys just rock...:-)</i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-24664796870706541602013-02-20T16:05:00.003+05:302013-03-01T22:53:11.028+05:30Advice for stressed out moms!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">As I have nothing substantial to deliver in
near future, all I do is reading some noteworthy blogs, especially written by
those who have been there…done that! I've realised that this has hugely facilitated
in overcoming some of my own deficiencies as a person, a friend, a wife and
more importantly a mother. One such, I could hardly ignore and hence sharing it here word-by-word. The original post can be found at:</span></i><br />
<i style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></i>
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<a href="http://iambaker.net/advice-for-stressed-out-moms/" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;" target="_blank">http://iambaker.net/advice-for-stressed-out-moms/</a></div>
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<span style="color: #767676; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">And if you are a busy mom too, you'll certainly co-relate...enjoy!</span><br />
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Advice for Stressed Out Moms</h1>
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<span style="color: #767676; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 23px;">I don't know about you, but I am at my wits end.</span></span></div>
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The never ending pile of laundry, the constant meal planning and preparation, driving kids from here to there, a home that is never clean, a car that is never clean, children that are never clean, and then whiny, disobedient kids to top it off.</div>
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On top of everything mom related, there is work issues, wanting to be a good wife and all that entails, wanting to keep in touch with and be a good friend to others, to volunteer and give back in the community, as well as meet personal goals.</div>
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<a href="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/stressedout.jpg" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;"><img alt="stressed out" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-40257" height="120" src="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/stressedout.jpg" style="border: none; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 10px !important; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" width="600" /></a></div>
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I am stressed out.</div>
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The second I even let my head get in a place where I think about the stress and annoyance, the mom guilt slips in.</div>
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<em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">“But Jane is suffering from cancer and she still has a spotless home.”</em></div>
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<em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">“Lucy has five more kids than me and always looks flawless and calm.”</em></div>
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<em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">“Jill works a full time job, has two kids and four pets, volunteers at church, and has never complained once.”</em></div>
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<em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">“I love my kids, being constantly upset with them is wrong.”</em></div>
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My friend <a href="http://www.ladybugsbutterfliesandboxing.com/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Sonya</a> shared a great quote:</div>
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<a href="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/highlight-reel.jpg" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;"><img alt="Highlight Reel" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-40255" height="321" src="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/highlight-reel.jpg" style="border: none; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 10px !important; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" width="600" /></a></div>
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Which reminded me of this quote: </div>
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<a href="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/comparison-is-thief.jpg" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;"><img alt="comparison is thief" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-40256" height="572" src="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/comparison-is-thief.jpg" style="border: none; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 10px !important; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" width="561" /></a></div>
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Go Theodore! He is exactly right. I have found certain satisfaction in accomplishments only to turn around, see someone else “do it better” and immediately assume mine are awful.</div>
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And as a mom, wife, daughter, etc. I know that even when I am <em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">not</em> comparing myself to others I can be overwhelmed with life’s daily tasks.</div>
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Sometimes its just hard.</div>
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I wanted to put together a list of things that can help! So here are a few things I do to ease my daily burdens and frustrations.</div>
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1. <strong style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Embrace paper plates</strong>. Seriously. Get all natural organic recycled if you have to, but just try it. At least once a week.</div>
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2. <strong style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Try saying yes to a child</strong>. I find myself saying NO all day long. No candy, no TV, no jumping, no screaming, etc. If I allow moments of “yes” I am finding that there is less fighting, less headaches for me, and less backtalk when I ask them to fulfill a different task. Its good to be consistent on important issues (like no running in the street and no hitting) but the occasional piece of candy is not worth me losing my mind over!</div>
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3. <strong style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Hop onto your computer and laugh</strong>. I have this <a href="http://pinterest.com/iambaker/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Pinterest Board</a> called <a href="http://pinterest.com/iambaker/quotes/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Quotes</a> and it makes me smile every.single. time. All it takes is a good belly laugh for me to change my mood, perspective, and ability to respond to life like a normal, sane person. (Try reading this pin about<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/24488391695862290/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">Random Acts of Kindness</a> if you need some inspiration and joy!)</div>
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<a href="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Funny-Quote.jpg" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;"><img alt="Funny Quote" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-40334" height="294" src="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Funny-Quote.jpg" style="border: none; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 10px !important; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" width="420" /></a></div>
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4. <strong style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Make time to pursue your passion.</strong> I happen to love baking. I bake <a href="http://iambaker.net/from-scratch-strawberry-ruffle-ombre-cake/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">cakes</a> and <a href="http://iambaker.net/category/cupcakes/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">cupcakes</a>and <a href="http://iambaker.net/cookie-dough-brownies/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">brownies</a> and <a href="http://iambaker.net/triple-chocolate-sugar-cookies/" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" target="_blank">cookies</a>. I get a sense of satisfaction in creating something beautiful.</div>
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<a href="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/cake.jpg" style="color: #f8c62c; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;"><img alt="Neapolitan Rose Cake by iambaker.net" class="aligncenter wp-image-40335" height="420" src="http://iambaker.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/cake.jpg" style="border: none; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto 10px !important; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" width="420" /></a></div>
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Maybe yours is scrapbooking or needlepoint or karate or cooking or garage saleing. Just make sure you set aside some time for you.</div>
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Most have heard this before… but I had to hear it a 1,000 times before actually listening. I always felt like I was being selfish or unreasonable to take time away from my family to do what <em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">I</em> felt like doing. The truth is that nurturing your self and soul is not selfish, it is our God given duty. He wants us healthy and calm and able to love as He calls us to!</div>
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5. <strong style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Check one thing off your “list” everyday.</strong> Now, this one was painful for me to learn. I am talking excruciating. Being exhausted at night hardly lends itself to the extra motivation you sometimes need to complete tasks, and in those weak moments I would much rather leave things for the morning!</div>
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Know why that is a BAD bad idea? Then you start out your day in a negative. <em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">Having</em> to clean to kitchen before you can make breakfast or <em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;">having</em> to start laundry so kids have clothes that day. Making the (sometimes hard) choice to do it that night allows a peaceful morning, and allows you to “fresh” state of mind when looking forward.</div>
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All that being said… one of the best things I can recommend is having a trusted sounding board. Maybe its heartfelt prayer time with God, venting while cuddling with hubby at night, or getting together with friends to compare notes.</div>
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No matter what you do, know that you are NOT alone! <img alt=":)" class="wp-smiley" src="http://iambaker.net/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" style="border: none; float: none; height: auto; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;" /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-76446334671269868102013-02-20T14:49:00.003+05:302013-03-01T22:53:18.180+05:3012 ways to beat the blues!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span style="color: red;">Everyone has a doomed day when your ‘oomph’ goes missing, nothing enthrals you and your motivation is playing peek-a-boo with you. It’s as though there is a lead weight on your ‘charming self’. What can you do to get your zing back and feel happier again?</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">With demanding jobs, a zillion things on our ‘to-do’ list and the constant effort in living an ambitious life; it’s only human to get down in the dumps occasionally. To add to it there are other factors that aggravate; traffic in gridlock mode, kids that won’t stop sulking, maids in a huff or the economy. If this wasn't enough, many of our cheerful mornings are wiped out with just one look at the newspapers. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">We aren't always fortunate to make a trip to the spa or invite our friends or family over to de-stress and cheer us up. In this article, I will share twelve sure-fire techniques to guarantee a ‘no-prescription-required’ breeze of cheer.</span></span></div>
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1. Carve your thoughts</h4>
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It’s been proven that writing down the inner thoughts can immediately benefit in feeling free and relieved. Are you peeved about a bad day at work? Write about it. Blogging is another great way of an emotional ‘pick-me-up’, since a simple act of transferring the thoughts from your head onto another medium will give you spirits of resolution.</div>
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2. Get into workout mode</h4>
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Isometrics, whether hard core Pilates or even a casual stroll releases endorphins which are otherwise known as ‘happiness chemicals’. Hence, it’s a good idea to take a brisk walk whenever your mood drops. You are sure to feel the difference.</div>
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3. Organise yourself</h4>
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Cluttered drawers and desks can sometimes be really alarming. Your head will be much clearer just as your working area if you take some time in organising your surroundings. You don’t have to totally empty your closets to get such an effect, however simply sorting out things in a drawer or even in your kitchen will instantly boost your morale and thus productivity.</div>
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4. Jam-jam-jamming</h4>
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Music is a great source to release those ‘feel-good’ chemicals in your brain. Next time you feel low, tune in to ‘your-kind-of-music’ to blast away those dejections. Your all-time-favourite melody can transform your sulk into euphoria instantly.</div>
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5. Soul searching</h4>
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None amongst us is alien to the technique of relaxation – meditation. Studies have shown that it can defend the psyche against gloomy thoughts and anguish. Try taking slow yet deep breaths just for about five minutes and you’ll be amazed to notice how light you actually feel.</div>
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6. Be rainbow bright</h4>
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Get dressed in your most favourite colour, so what if it’s bright yellow. It’s been proven that colours have a reflective influence on how we feel and compose ourselves as certain shades have been associated with particular emotional states, for e.g. blue can stimulate creativity while red can aid in accuracy.</div>
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7. Relaxing scents</h4>
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When you’re emotionally low, essential oils can make you feel more optimistic, calmer and blissful. A cup of tea with two teaspoons of the whole Lavender can help you unwind and feel more enriched. A few drops of the essential oil added to a warm bath at the close of a taxing day helps to battle exhaustion and ease your qualms.</div>
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8. Give me some sunshine</h4>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">The sun plays a dynamic role in our fitness and well-being and not getting enough of it can make us feel pretty gloomy. So, if your morning didn't really turn out the way you envisaged, don’t fret over it with the curtains closed feeling pathetic about yourself. Instead, open the windows and blinds and enjoy that sunlight flooding in. If nothing else, this will certainly lift your mood in a tick.</span></span></div>
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9. Watch a funny video</h4>
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Internet is the greatest source of funniest videos – right from the Gangnam style dancing babies to dogs on the skateboards to the re-run of your favourite comedy TV shows. It’s worth noting that laughter releases endorphin which is awesome in boosting the mood promptly. Hence, next time you feel blue, try catching up with ‘Comedy Circus’ or ‘Friends’ or even an all-time-favourite movie ‘Padosan’ which will definitely release some giggles and guffaws.</div>
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10. Flip through old photos</h4>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Who wouldn't be exultant and content looking at the photographs of good old times and our loved ones? That feeling of ease and joy is a sure remedy to revitalize your day. We seldom tend to reach for our old photo albums and what else can be a better motive than to chase off our solitude and anxiety!</span></span></div>
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11. Sex</h4>
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Great sex may be one of the ultimate mood boosters, if it is within a mutually committed relationship. In fact, semen contains dominant and potentially addictive mood-altering chemicals that may enhance your mood if some of them are absorbed through the walls of the vagina.</div>
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12. Stock on snacks</h4>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We've</span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> all had our days when we’re totally dragging and instead of reaching for that pack of chips, there’s a smarter way to beat that crash. Stashing some or all of the below snacks in your fridge can be a great saver for that insta-energy.</span></span></div>
<h5 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans Condensed', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; width: 620px;">
Dark chocolate</h5>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Yep, I know I've just typed those two ridiculously sinful words. Besides having special antioxidants in it, dark chocolate keeps blood vessels in fine fettle. It also causes our body to release endorphins which enhances our mood.</span></span></div>
<h5 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans Condensed', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; width: 620px;">
Nuts, like almonds or walnuts</h5>
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Nuts are confirmed to contribute an additional vigour helping you stay attentive due to the presence of Omega-3s, a well-known mood booster. So, it makes perfect sense in having a handful for munching on or adding some to your salads. Delish!</div>
<h5 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans Condensed', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; width: 620px;">
Fruits and veggies</h5>
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As veggies are full of H2O, your body will promptly respond to them. And more water means energy boost. Certain vegetables like tomatoes have outrageous amounts of antioxidants, which again bless your system with happiness and good health. Fruits like oranges and grapefruits are rich in Vitamin C and hence are immediate energy promoters battling fatigue instantly.</div>
<h5 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans Condensed', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; width: 620px;">
Seafood</h5>
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Seafood and shellfish contains Selenium that is accountable for the contentment that you feel, and can support you to ease anxiety and enrich you with the ‘get-up-and-go’ attitude.</div>
<h5 style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: 'Open Sans Condensed', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; margin: 10px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline; width: 620px;">
Plenty of water</h5>
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Sticking to that “8 glasses of water a day” rule is one of the most treasured things you can do for your physical and mental health. Revitalizing your body with more water is proved to have instantaneous energy effects adding a happy boost.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px; margin-bottom: 15px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #444444;">(The above article was published at </span><a href="http://www.saffronsunshine.com/index.php/body-mind/12-ways-to-beat-the-blues/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Saffron Sunshine</b></span></a><span style="color: #444444;">, a leading e-publication)</span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-3803394048103809702013-02-14T23:23:00.001+05:302013-03-01T22:53:22.939+05:30Valentine's Day...what is it?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
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<i><span style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">I am pissed…I am frustrated….I am upset…I am distressed…I am
disappointed… and if this is really not enough, I AM irritated, angry,
exasperated….and tired, too!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">NO, I wasn't scrutinizing my vocabulary on the adjectives; I
was fairly sharing my emotional state of being ALONE…well-nigh all by yourself,
with kids hitting the sack and no one to talk to. Well, this is the typical
scene at my home day after day but today? Wasn't today
exceptional? Wasn't it meant to be for all those who're bound by
affection, love and care? Wasn't it doomed to be spent together; with
someone close to you?</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Each year, I make a puerile wish and desire for something different. I
hope for a variation in the monotony. I hope for something that will really
sweep me off my feet. No, I am not a college kid and I am very conscious of the
fact that I shall soon be turning 35, the big breakthrough in womanhood when
the clock is meant to be ticking the reverse way! Well, I am someone who’s been
married for the last Twelve years with an adorable set of Twins.
(Disregard my recent <a href="http://celestiallassie.blogspot.in/2013/02/my-kinda-days.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">post </span></a>condemning
Motherhood…that was just momentary thwart)</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Still…..I love being showered with roses, gifted with chocolates,
offered with amazing perfumes and invited over for a lavish, romantic,
candlelit dinner! I recognise that he loves me profoundly but I also know for
definite that he wouldn't do any of the above…no chance, at all!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">Hence, I decided to indulge myself and make me feel special. I got these
beautiful red roses, each dedicated to the most adorable people in my life.
Yes, you read it right! They are dedicated to the man I love the most (after
Pa, of course) and my two beloveds who undoubtedly enhance my insanity
sometimes but make my life all worth for!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aE9r83DUcNQ/UR0k7S_RtRI/AAAAAAAAMCw/PpAz9aFGpSw/s1600/f0fc12ae76c911e2b4ee22000a1fbe6d_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aE9r83DUcNQ/UR0k7S_RtRI/AAAAAAAAMCw/PpAz9aFGpSw/s1600/f0fc12ae76c911e2b4ee22000a1fbe6d_6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="color: #7f7f7f; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-IN;">And although, you don't give me roses and chocolates and
perfumes are perhaps, the least you are thinking, I still love you!</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-78283374043827675482013-02-12T13:50:00.002+05:302013-03-01T22:53:29.039+05:30Book Review: Milan Vohra's Tick-Tock We're 30!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 20px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font: inherit;"><i>‘Interesting, isn’t it, how someone is always utterly attractive to someone else? For every male tree frog, there is a female tree frog whose dry skin and warts and bulging eyes are the most divine. and to you, Lara Bagai, a karela is a thing of beauty,’ Nishad comments.</i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 20px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font: inherit;"><i>So he remembers I love karela. So what?</i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 20px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font: inherit;"><i>‘I take it your interest in frogs is purely academic?’ I snigger.</i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 20px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font: inherit;"><i>‘I promise you I am not in danger of being madly besotted by one anytime soon,’ he half-smiles.</i></span></div>
<span style="color: #666666;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<span style="color: #666666;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Honestly, I am not too much into
reviewing the books. The only reason I agreed for this one is because I could
get a chance to read one...more so, a love story that I am ridiculously addicted to and
because it’s a Milan Vohra book, the <i>Indianised</i>
version of Mills & Boon!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The book takes you through a very
interesting storyline where a bunch of friends decides to celebrate their ‘turning
30’ as they had once decided to do so whenever the last one hits the mark. So,
as Lara Bagai is the youngest one and the last to do so, it’s time for the celebration
through a union they plan. Like Sita names it, the OTWT,' Oh Teri, We're
Thirty!' affair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The gathering has Lara cheerful
and all prepped up. But there's an added deal that, unluckily, concurs with
this one. The one that Lara and Nishad had made one evening agreeing to marry
each other if they were both single and available by the time they both turned
thirty. Lara is pretty sure that this pact was made when she was wasted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As Lara was totally smitten by
Ranndeep, her male biker boyfriend, the last thing she could ever think was the
possibility of the deal turning into reality. But what the heck! She is soon turning
thirty and still single as Ranndeep turned out to be a douchebag and moreover,
Nishad hasn’t forgotten about the pact. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N2ThoumEhjQ/URvOdUJFKCI/AAAAAAAAMBo/p3ntjO63SYI/s1600/ticktock.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N2ThoumEhjQ/URvOdUJFKCI/AAAAAAAAMBo/p3ntjO63SYI/s320/ticktock.png" width="207" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Then comes Perzaan, the Turkish
bartender and Lara’s fake boyfriend for a week until the SN gang is in the
house. Does she pull through this or the smart Nishad sees anything through
this pretence? Well, this is not the only story playing hard at the pajama-wala
uncle’s house and there are few others playing out, too. Old flames are wafted
and relighted, odd couplings materialize, sensual angles get definite, and
sexual dysfunctions get amended! Full of mischiefs and excitement, food carousels
and journeys down memory lane, tricks and fights, Tick-tock, We're 30 ensues at
an incredibly curt speed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There is sufficient melodrama in these 400-odd pages. The
characters are superbly outlined ---from the recurrently constipated Thin Rita
to pleased eye, Sai. Odds are that you'll have a pictorial silhouette of each
one of them in your cognizance while analysing this book. Great on comedy and dialect
idioms, you will somehow not complaint the fact that the book is a bit too extended.
In spite of everything, you'd still need to see who each one will end up with
and in what way. It will also make you wonder how such a dissimilar set of charismas
can be so unified too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Milan Vohra inscribes modestly
and for India's first Mills and Boon novelist, her style is amazingly without overemotional
slush and sugary romanticism, although assumed the topic, it could so effortlessly
have gone down that street.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On the downside, she could have cut down on certain
explanations reducing the number of pages! In all, a good bed-side read!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(This book review is a part of the Promotion conducted by <a href="http://www.womensweb.in/articles/tick-tock-were-30-milan-vohra/" target="_blank">Women's Web</a>, a leading online publication for today's women)</span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-78024585523455461552013-02-07T13:11:00.001+05:302013-03-01T22:54:02.740+05:30My kinda days!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i style="color: #999999; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">It’s
been a real long time I have updated anything on my Blog; and I still pride
myself calling a ‘passionate’ blogger…..Huh! Doesn't go too well down the
throat, isn't it?</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>It’s
not that I wasn't; I really was meaning to be here, write here, vent out my
emotions and trust me, I badly needed doing that over the last few days. Things
have been particularly challenging on the home-front. Since my last full time
maid gave it a quit, I am in a bad shape. Not that I don’t manage home well, I
certainly do. What’s challenging and particularly strenuous is managing home
and two 5 year old simultaneously.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Any
mom to a toddler will sympathise with me and more specifically because I am dealing
with two at a time. Imagine, just while you are dumping the laundry into the
washing machine, you hear the screams and shouts in kids room and you rush leaving that damn thing alone. You finally manage to load it, start it
on and just while you are hanging the freshly laundered clothes on the
dry-line, you make another quick dash to attend ‘I-am-thirsty-need-some-water-right-now-Mamma’
calls. And after you've managed the laundry, other mundane routine, attended those thousand ‘Madam-you-need-a-personal loan/credit card’ and similar
other calls, ensured kids are well fed, you are finally just about to dig into
that bowl of fish curry and BINGO! You hear another loud shriek… "Mamma, Potty!”
Damn the Motherhood! I know I've just won a <a href="http://celestiallassie.blogspot.in/2012/10/motherhood-song-for-life.html" target="_blank">blog-contest</a> on the similar theme
that even featured in 'Mother’s World' magazine but still…Damn the Motherhood at such
insane times!<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>From
all the above, I've learned a hard lesson. I am not perfect and certainly not a super-mom and neither aspire to be one any time sooner. All I am asking for is a little help to support me overcome these
blues and tackle the responsibility I've chosen. Yes, the responsibility of
bringing up my Twins!<o:p></o:p></i></span></span><br />
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Hence,
the last couple of weeks were totally dedicated towards the ‘Maid Hunt”… There’s
a peculiar thing I have to share here. My maid search really turns out to be pitiful and nasty each
time I try; however after a couple of court-martials, I am always fortunate to
nail one of the good ones; although it's a different story that our association doesn't last long enough to cherish. So, when I shooed-away those couple of ‘trial-basis’
maids, I knew somewhere deep down that the ‘good one’ is still to arrive and I
guess I was dead-on there!<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Finally
managed to employ two maids – one exclusively for cooking and the other to take
care of other chores like doing dishes, cleaning the cooking hob, kitchen appliances,
etc. Well, just to mention, in
addition to these new hires, I am lucky to have been blessed with another one
who takes care of cleaning/mopping/dusting/bathrooms/etc. So, that makes my
home disposed to three different maids at three different times. Hubby dear wasn't particularly happy about my choice of employing two maids in addition to
the one we already have. Not to mention, I convinced him…well, honestly, he didn't have another choice than getting convinced and that’s a separate story…need
to blog about that in a separate post!<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>So,
finally, my two new extended family members resumed their respective duties on
the first day of this month which was an apt anniversary gift for me which we
celebrated on 3<sup>rd</sup>. And the fact that, one of them is still working
while I write this, makes me believe that some of our stars have matched well....(until now).<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_CbnesWNHPc/URNbn-hUJqI/AAAAAAAAMBI/sfZQstrZHtQ/s1600/5991.maid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_CbnesWNHPc/URNbn-hUJqI/AAAAAAAAMBI/sfZQstrZHtQ/s320/5991.maid.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Finding
a good maid in Metros is a real pain in the a**. With a number of ‘both-husband-and-wife-working’
families around, they are highly in demand and are easily susceptible to even a
slight salary-raise. Only few actually value the relationship and the bond which gets
eventually built up as the days, months and years pass by. Hence, though
finding a good maid is a hazard, managing to keep one stuck to you after all
that time you've invested in training her is a rather bigger and on-going challenge.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Well,
for the time-being, I am enjoying some ready-made food and more so excited about
the pleasure of dumping a used plate in the sink without having to worry about
cleaning the kitchen and keeping it spick- and- span. <o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span class="MsoSubtleEmphasis"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Voilà</i></span></span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>! I'm finally having ‘my-kind-of’ days and am loving them! Bring it on….:-)<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8848270822651683668.post-11971200279694971932013-02-01T17:30:00.003+05:302013-03-01T22:54:09.689+05:30Boys will always be boys...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A picture says a thousand words....what say???</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4DhQ4pjKPUE/UQuuFhpC9gI/AAAAAAAAMAE/Msq0PIzTfCs/s1600/819321_324690484298138_504928321_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4DhQ4pjKPUE/UQuuFhpC9gI/AAAAAAAAMAE/Msq0PIzTfCs/s640/819321_324690484298138_504928321_o.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">But Boys are fun, too....especially the little ones....I love mine..:-)</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01367104385236325603noreply@blogger.com2