Me, hubby and bro had the pleasure of visiting Six Flags. Well, one Might wonder why I went since I do not go on Most of the rides but I do so enjoy the games / food / ambiance found on the ground. I enjoyed reading my book, as I waited for the guys to finish their rides. It must have seemed pretty lame, as I can imagine, for I had perfect strangers coming up to me encouraging me to go on the rides which was also kinda fun! It's not that I don't want to go on the rides. It's just that I can't. Many a days, I sit imaginging what the rush feels like. To free fall and feel totaly out of control. But the two times, I tried it, I freaked out as the coaster went higher up and then out of sheer terror of dying with fright shut my eyes and said all the prayers I know so that the ride gets over at the earliest. On the positive side, I got a lot of original reviews as I could hear the yays and nays on the fun o ' meter as people came off each ride.

What really got my goat firstly was the queue. Man oh man !! How we 3 regretted not getting the Flash pass, which allows u to get on the rides SANS the 1.5 hour long queues. In the scorching heat, I don't know what was worse. Me waiting in the sun or the guys actually standing in the queue. Also, it is highly upsetting when you see people cutting the line and getting in the line, making the line longer than it was when you Started. There Should be some sort of restraint that prevents people under the age of 15 or something to get ahead of you. On top of everything the sprinklers on top, at the water rides ( which I DID grace with my presence ) weren't working. And then there was this hilarious ( well, to Me !! ) incident where this white, who we'll call X and african american who we'll call Y got into a never ending fight which lasting 2 hours atleast, to my knowledge. There they stood, fighting at the top of their lungs trying to convince a Six Flags representative. He in turn looked totally lost and for most of the 2 hours just seemed to be enjoying the attention of two lovely ladies. The crowd however was finding the whole thing amusing, which goes to prove how boring it was standing in that queue and finally turned into into a corny racial issue cheering on the african american girl. As I got closer to the head of the line, turns out Y was in her hurry to cut line and get ahead with her friends ( who were also cutting line) pushed X's kids out of the way which ofcourse miffed off the lady. Well, in course a lady came and called security which goes to show only girls can solve problems involving girls <> . The food is astronomically expensive. A guy went to the lemonade counter that goes around the park and was shocked when told the lemonade was for 4 dollars. " Is there anything for 1 ? " was answered with a quirky grin. Well, they are after all a business venture and are going to milk you for every cent you've got !!! Which is true for every product. Carrying food along with you is out of the question if you want to be able to roam around the whole park.

Having gotten the negativities out of the way - what I found really original was the S.F.R's T shirts, which read - No smoking , No litterring. Please keep the park clean. Even My family comes here. Or something to that effect. Which I found pretty cool. Also , the rides were pretty cool. Including the long queues, the number of rides you can pack into a day is "6". The boardwalk and the games are also real good fun. The food is also pretty good considering, you are pretty famished by the time you think about eating. So, here goes the list for your reference, if you like based or personal and public feed back -

The Twister - It's a good beginning. I recorded the whole ride on camera. It's slow but twists you all around off and on. It's even fun to Watch .

Superman : Ultimate Flight - Totally Over rated. It has the longest ride and the ride is Not worth even talking about . ( Hear say )

Kingda Ka - We got stumped at Kingda Ka where the guys stood for 45 mins and then were told the ride has gone " temporarily out of order. And just as we were walking to the next ride, was back in order. Later, we just weren't comfortable going on it Not knowing what had gone wrong in the first place.

Great American Scream Machine - Pretty Cool. Worth going a second time or third time.

El Toro - The ULTIMATE thrill ride. You almost feel like you're head might get chopped off. After this one, it's hard to Think of going on another ride immedidately. Voted the best by everyone who got Off it.

Saw Mill Log Flume - A really good water ride. Really long with 3 drops and good fun for meek people like me. I'm not much into rides but being a water baby, I just Loved it.

Congo Rapids - Another good water ride, which gets you realllly wet. The trick is to keep the craft off balance and being ready to get wet. It's funny how many people stand for a water ride and complain about getting wet. Hello !! It's a water ride...

Back after my hiatus, spent in making many more cherished memories with family, showing them around and having fun in a few new experiences. Now, I'm just at home, alone again with my thoughts and musings. It's funny how time flies, making every moment that has passed by into a dream that may or may not have occurred. It's almost unrealistic that days gone by have turned into sifted through the sands of time and brought me back to where I was, left wanting more.

My family came, saw and conquered. So to speak !! On their first vacation, of a life time for the whole experience, I believe more than the sight seeing and shopping, walking till our feet hurt in unspeakable ways, what they most enjoyed was just being with us. Spending time at length with their son in law, getting to know him better, pampering the two of us in untold ways and sharing funny hilarious stories to times long forgotten is what will make this time unforgettable.

For me, once again I was surprised how I have grown and changed. The differences that have crept up displaying what I was before marriage and after. The contrast is almost vivid in it's starkness, when compared to the family with which I was brought up. My values remain the same of course, but the dissimilarities in tastes and choices have grown to differ. Which brings me to the unsettling thought, that as we all grow with time and change with circumstances, how different will be the world which I miss so. The world which holds all those I hold dear, and memories and places that only glorify themselves in my mind as does old wine. Time has a subtle way of changing things. I'm not so naive as to not know that people grow with time, but do they change so as to change their priorities and the love they have for those they held close? Do circumstances, new loves, new lives change the perspective of what was? Is what was important earlier hold lesser importance now ? If yes, then why is that so ? Is it easy to replace affections for one over the other ? Or does the past become hazy over time and lose significance ? It is necessary to move on and experience new things, but is it essential to change your perspective of Everything ? I wonder ...

In movies, I watch all genres, but movies that truly inspire to better your self and your life , in any small way is what moves it into my favorites slot. In any book or movie , there should be atleast one line or scene which gives me a moral or thought that makes me ponder. Many a times we easiliy miss the bigger picture, and then comes along a moment when you think of what could happen if ...

Saw the movie a second time the other day. And was equally moved as I was the first time I saw this movie that takes us through a part of the life of Chris Gardner. More than the actual person what impresses me most is the actual line ie - Pursuit of Happyness. Knowing that in order to achieve happiness you need to work hard in order to achieve your desired result. And happyness, when actually strides into our lives may not be the way we expected. Perfection is something we can aspire for, but knowing what to work towards to make us happy is a task in itself. Ofcourse, there is the little matter of knowing the different between , what we Think will make us happy and what actually makes us happy.

As the movie progresses, the simplicity awes me as I imagine how easy life comes to those of us who have the basic necessities and comforts. The scene where " Chris " figures out the way out of the pit of his problems, is amazing. And as he tries and works towards making a reality out of the mirage set before him, brings forth new respect for all those who may have been the same scenario. As I said earlier, respect for an achiever aside, the simple theme of the movie is what moves me each time.

Having met people who are never satisfied or feel that happiness eludes them at every point, I find it essential for the knowledge of pursuing happiness to be spread all around. No one finds bliss lying at their doorstep, but then there are quite a few people out there, who unaware of the little happiness they have, are reluctant to admit that there is something else out there that could make them happy. Their illusion of happiness leads them down the maze of life, onto roads that make no sense. They are neither willing nor capable of accepting life's cards and playing the game to their own benefit. All for the simple reason of being stubborn and blind to the realities before them.

Here I'm getting sleepy and losing my thought process and so I lamely, sign off with the parting thought that happiness like all else in our lives like friendship, relations, marriage, career is an on going process. Each day we need to find moments that bring smiles on our faces and those that we love. Each night we need to remember all the happy moments that made the last day special. For believe it or not, tomorrow will be a new day, with more or less of those moments that sum up to what we call Our Life. Memories good or bad, that will none the less bring a smile to our face as we reminisce about them , telling tales of our experiences and the lessons we learnt to those who are willing to learn. So decide to be happy coz you deserve it, just like everyone else ...

Firstly, I'm no big fan of Shahrukh or Aamir. I love movies, and characters they play but not the people. After all, no person is perfect. And they are in the industry get ahead making huge amounts of money, get fame and all the glory that comes with it. No matter what they might claim. Read the " sensational " news today of Aamir naming a dog after Shahrukh and I just Had to go and read it for myself. As the blog goes, it's Aamir talking about a dog that his Caretakers have, whose name is Shahrukh. As he justifies this jab, by saying that though he had nothing to do with naming the dog, he's just plain lucky to have bought a house which had a dog named Shahrukh. In the comments given to the post there were people lauding his sense of humor besides his description of Panchgani ( where the house is ). And there were a few who called it what it was. Tasteless.

I for one am appalled at His choice of words. I mean, cmon ! He's a man of vast means, interests, educated. And this is what he finds funny? Taking potshots at a rival ? What is the world coming to when such a big name in the industry, an idol to many, creates such an example for the people around who look up to him? No one can convince me that he had no idea what he was saying or what impression he was creating. Shahrukh me laugh it off all he wants, but in the end, it is what it is. Demeaning. Sure, people name their pets whatever they feel like. And many might even consider it a compliment to be made such a part of people's life. But then, the various comments made by Aamir are nothing, but hints of taming Shahrukh ( the dog ).

It's not a big deal in the bigger scheme of things, of course. More than anything, I think it disturbs me so much for no other reason other than the way many people have picked up the habit on commenting on anything and everything. Physical attributes, love lives, work, studies,salary, marriage, achievements - everything is fair game. Sarcastic comments are flying all across the globe. A person might not think twice before asking a question or passing a remark that makes another highly uncomfortable. Is it that they don't realize what they are saying or is it just that people prefer trying to make a point, no matter how insensitive they may come across as. Most days I find it highly amusing to what levels people can try to pry and poke. And some days, I find myself tightening my fists in balls of red, preventing myself punching them in the face. It's these kind of people, who invite people to hit back with whatever ammunition they can muster that the time. When thoroughly provoked anyone and everyone is bound to cross their threshold and retaliate one way or another.

The best part is that most of these people do it behind the curtain of humor or inquisitiveness. They'll usually come back with " I was just kidding. Didn't mean to make you feel bad. " I admit, there is humor in sarcasm but Only when used productively or playfully. Not like a barbed wire that hurts. I don't think it's anyone's business criticize any other person's life or choices in any way. Unless of course actively involved. And then also, words should be chosen prudently and in a way to achieve best results. No one in their right minds, can do anything right when disturbed. For that you need to love and cherish what is already in them and nourish that. And it's never funny to calling someone ugly or fat or too thin. I think we all already have our own demons to battle, let alone to be bothered about someone else's. I think it has more to do with people not Knowing the difference between humor and vulgarity. Somehow enjoying the feeling of morbid relief in pointing a finger at another, in the process diminishing the size of their own shortcomings.

Our society just might be a better place if we all took care of what we said. Praising rather than criticizing and cherishing rather than pointing. For all that's encouraged is what makes us what we are. Humor does have it's own place and playfully used, leads to laughter that can heal many a broken souls. Between friends, with a mutual understanding and respect, smiles can be brought about with ease. But crass, cheap, bad mannered jest finds indulgence only in the minds of the impervious.

Earlier we didn't have days. Mother's day, Father's day, Friendship day and all the other kinda days that make us wanna celebrate for the silliest reasons. I don't agree with most of the mundane reasons. Who in the world came up festivals like Frog Jumping day, Dance like a chicken day or Butterfly day ? What is one even supposed to do on these days ? Still I do believe then Life is a celebration. A celebration of every breath, memory and smile that's granted to us. And I'm glad that some how in recent times, this tradition has gradually come across that requires us to start expressing ourselves and appreciate life's wonderful gifts. Specially, people that we genuinely care for. It's important in life to let the people we love know what we feel for them, one way or another. It's not just actions and gifts, but words that come straight from the heart. To know how proud we are of their achievements and how wonderful it is that they are a part of our lives. A chance to reflect on our relationships and rejoice for all they bring into our lives.

Mother's day ! A day when I am thankful for the kind of mother GOD graced me with. My friend, confidante, supporter, and among a List of other things, the one person I could turn to no matter what the problem or situation. More than a mother, she's been my friend. A fact she loes to dispute ever so often. She's given me a lot of swell memories. Laughing together, crying together, discussing everything under the sun, sleeping late, eating together late in the nights once she broke her fasts, catching a movie together, being a rapt audience while I gleefully talked a mile a mute or displayed my talents. She's held me when I've broken down and tried to protect me in whatever ways she could. Always standing behind me, no matter what road I decided to take in life or ended up on, praying for what's best for me. Fighting her own battles, holding the house together with her love, working hard at everything she did, at the same time making sure my bro and I got raised right. We have always been too hot to handle, but she molded us into what we are today with all the strength she could muster. Always giving, sacrificing and never taking anything in return as reward. I remember a number of times when I've had to fight her just to get her to accept a small gift, which she's later quietly put back into my bag. She's a woman bar none I've ever seen. No one I've known has the innocence and love she holds within her. Till date I wonder when the day will come when she'll become wise to the world's intricacies. Whether she knows it or not, she's the best thing that could have happened to us. She's always been my guiding star, keeping me good and down to earth. I can only hope to one day be able to become one tenth of the human being she is, let alone the kind of mother she has been.

I thank you mom for the kind of person you are and all the kindness you have showered upon us. I can only hope to make you proud. Now, I'm taking on the roles you have had and learn every day how much harder every step must have been for you. Though, now I have the love of another mother and as I get to know her, I find myself being showered with more love than I could have imagined. And am amazed at how lucky I've gotten. So , today, I give a salute to all mothers out there who sacrifice a bit of themselves every day for the growth of their family ....

Though I try to make it a point to make my special someone's feel exceptionally important on these days, wouldn't it be better to be thankful and expressive as often as we can. One day can Never be enough to show the love you have for someone. After all, a relationship is made up of more than One day in the year right ???

I was wondering the other day. Usually, it's my hubby giving me then news of the day. But these days I try to make it a point to go through all the google-d news I can. As I go through article after article, I wonder where the world is headed. Morally, financially, emotionally, and socially ...

What do I want from life? Get a good job, earn well, raise a family I can be proud of and along the way try as many things I've ever wanted to experience. End of the day, most of us want to just do our best in the roles that have be handed to us by Life. In the end, I just want to be able to have said that I lived a full life, in which I achieved whatever I could have, given the circumstances. Be successful, get richer monetarily and in all the other senses possible. Be able to buy all the things I've wanted to, read all the books I've ever wanted, be versatile in the arts I like. I live each day in the anticipation of realizing the little dreams I have for myself.

And yet, there are people out there who are barely surviving. Not just the poor or unprivileged, but those who somehow develop a warped sense of how life should be compared to the Normal viewpoint. Who are stuck in a quagmire of someone else's making. I'm of course referring to the weirdness around us like in the sects. One man's desire to start a humongous village referring to himself as God and then what ? Imagine the children who grow up in such situations. Most of them probably don't even realize there is a whole other world out there, out of the clutches of this morbid upbringing. Where they could be a lot more than they are Now. And then there is the man, who keeps a girl imprisoned in his grip. She's given birth to children in that dark place who have never even seen the light of day. Through no fault of hers, she and those born of her are destined to suffer, till through some sweet twist of fate they are freed into the real world. The person quietly walking to or from a place they frequent and having their lives turned upside down by a passing act of violence. The societies stuck in war ravaged countries, with no better way of living thanks to people they have never heard of or seen. Daily scrounging for food, fighting sickness, darting bullets. Then there are other people who don't have the courage to stand up for themselves. They are all doomed to spend a life, living day to day just trying to survive and reach to the end of life or their rope, which ever comes first. It's bad enough when people like us don't stand up for what's wrong and try to do our bit in doing what's right , giving stronger, harder people a chance to do as their unwholesome will desires. But imagine the people, who CANNOT get away from this macabre world created for them. Will they ever be granted a smile or know what true happiness is? Experience life as we know it? I wonder. I can only empathize and hope that they find some one to guide them to the warmth in the core of their own hearts bringing them into the sunshine.

The world is getting smaller yet somehow more disconnected. It's in these cracks that we let seep into our lives unknowingly that give a chance for such seeds to be planted and grow exponentially. We can't weed out all the bad and hurt. There will always be suffering and hurt and colossal pain, such that we can't even imagine. Such pain that we avoid our whole lives, being careful in every way so as not to be touched by any sort of aggression. But what about those out there who need a hand, a shoulder, or just a smile. That isn't too much to give back to the world, right ? We can try to do our bit in returning Some thing , any thing to the world which has given us the simple pleasures of Our own lives. Maybe it's just by voicing our concerns or being there for someone who needs us, or just smiling at someone who seems to be having a bad day. Be nice, be kind, be courteous. Pass it on. Who knows? Your smile might be the breathe of fresh air that someone needs.

It's might be a little early for me to be saying what is right for a relationship. But then, I believe the basics are always the same and who are we kidding ?? It's Never just perfect. But we can always try. And for perfection one needs practice and patience. And Lots of work on both sides. There is no short cut and certainly no free lessons to a happy life but from my experience I've learnt that the below few pointers do help us all. Not just in marriage but any relation. Of course, it's not applicable to everyone because some people are just built different but it's worked for me and the few that I've seen around me !!! So, here goes -



1. Laugh a lot .
1. Respect each other .
1. Have fun together - always be willing to try new things .
1. Be willing to compromise .
1. Share every thing and thought .
1. Talk your heart out .
1. Learn to let the small things go ; we all have our quirks .
1. When in doubt - ask .
1. Bury each hatchet , after having used it in a momentary war .
1. Never dig up old graves ; they are old, useless, painful, and stink big time !!
1. Resolve each issue and find a suitable solution - one at a time .
1. If you stray from a topic always find the essence of the discussion .
1. Value each other's opinions .
1. Sometimes more than anything , just listening and venting are needed ; after that move on .
1. Be willing to be silly .
1. Have fun with surprises.
1. Make every moment count .
1. TRY enjoying each other's worlds .
1. Give each other space to be themselves .
1. Compliment each other a lot .
1. Say I love you a lot .
1. Think about how the other person would feel before taking any action .
1. Remember - Intention is what matters in the end. It's the thought that counts.
1. To solve any problem, you have to believe you can make it work .
1. Don't be scared to speak your mind ; specially if it's important to you .
1. Always try choose your words carefully .
1. Keep your expectations in check .
1. Listen and pay attention to each other - the said And the unsaid .
1. In the heat of the moment ; sometimes it's Ok to keep quiet and let things fizzle out .
1. Don't put up a show. The real you comes out eventually . Be yourself .
1. Pamper each other to the fullest .
1. Be supportive and always have your shoulder handy .
1. Care about people the other cares for .
1. Always take a stand for what you believe in And for the one you LOVE.
1. Say loving words often .
1. Always let them know in every way that they are special to you .
1. Never take each other for granted .
1. Always keep aside special alone time .
1. Appreciate every small or big effort taken for you .


Then there's always that extra mile you can and should go for someone you love and care about. Remember, happiness shared is doubled and sorrow shared is halved. So, goes to reason, when the other person is happy , you'll find happiness too. It's a circle ; it all comes back. And yes, they are all number 1 for a reason !!!

Water, water every where and the beauty of it all. I went to the beach recently and once there, I was just over come with the desire to plunge into the waters and let them wash all the heat and troubles off me. I've been brought up in a place where going to the beach was a part of every weekend outing. Once I grew up, going to a water body, sitting along the water front, walking along the water's side, was a part of living. There's just something magical and purifying about letting the wind blow over you as you look out at the vast oceans pondering about the unknown. Picnics, outings, long drives or walks, no matter what the reason it's always a pleasure to spend some time near a water body. Thoughts grow clearer, as your eyes get refreshed by the sights of the endless horizon before you. And if there is a sunset or sunrise, it adds all the more meaning to the moment. The sheer beauty of the clean, shining, blue waters is enough to take your breath away. The way the skies change colors, almost reflects onto your mood uplifting you to a higher plane. The serenity that one finds beside these water fronts guarantee to support the wide range of emotions that flow through you. The way the skies meet the sea, is a perfect example of irony where nothing is exactly as it seems.


Many sweet memories were made by the sea side of games played with friends imagining us living in a sand caslte , picnics with families and uncles and aunts, refreshing swims, endless talks with friends, playing around at waterfalls with family and my brother, long walks during times of turmoil and silently looking across at the endless blues while deep in thought are all a part of the life I've loved. Even now, sitting along the sea or any water front, mysteriously guides me into a blissful state. Nothing gives me more joy, than going back to the waters anywhere; that have been friends longer than I have been alive and given me many happy memories to cherish. I'm not blind to the loss that can come from them becoming the enemy but that's a law of nature and nothing can be done except try our best under that circumstances. Yet disasters aside, it is amazing how being in the presence of such beauty and luscious sounds is totally calming.


Though, when we went to this beach, I was sorely disappointed to see the state of the waters which seemed dangerously toxic. I could only refrain myself by dipping my feet into the waves to feel the soothing cool in the blistering day. Maybe this beach wasn't meant to be go swimming in, but then being that it was placed beside a water park, I think the clean waters might have added a financial benefit to the park as well. I for one, would have loved to go into the park, if only I could have taken a small dip into the cool waters. This is my one call to direct us all to the sad state in which the un recycled waters are in presently. Let us all do our small bit in taking care to keep our waters clean and make efficient use of our available resources. And for those of you out there who haven't yet taking a walk along the river side, go ahead, take someone you care about or just take a random stroll and experience the love of the deep blue waters ...

Yesterday, I did something I've never done before. Diligently tried to rally troupes forward, making them dance and sing on the rhythm of the drums and horns, making sure my growing army conquers one and all. You might be wondering how I managed to do all that, and all in one day. Well, I made the use of one of the latest technologies tool that allow you to have fun anytime, anywhere. The PSP. It allows you to store your data, listen to your music, updated news, view photos and among other Fun functions allows you to play the current game of your choice.

I for one, am not much of a gamer, which anyone who knows me will vouch for. Sure, I will dabble in this and that at the arcades or the laptop or PSP. I'm just as good as the next person, who enjoys fooling around with virtual cars, bikes, motor boats or guns. A once in a while playful visitor to the gaming zone. But a new "fever" overtook me yesterday. The joy of banging drums that "talked" to the " tribe" . Any gamer worth their salt is sure to have heard of this newest addition to the world of PSP games. Recently, having gifted it to my hubby, I wondered what it was that got that gleeful look in his eyes after he came home from work, having played the game during the commute. I mean, cars and guns, sure, thats anyone's piece of cake. It's a guy thing. But having seen the reviews and the trailer of the game, I wasn't quite convinced how much fun, game based on maintaining Rhythm would be.



So, yesterday, after gentle coaxing of my hubby to try it, I entered the world of tiny tribal miniature creatures in this wondrous game - PATAPON. And was hooked ! To my hubby's extreme delight and bewildered amusement, making use of his patient explanations that encouraged me play a bit longer after I got exasperated in the first try, I ended up playing for almost three hours running. The tiny voices, the snide remarks when you are unsuccessful, the funny one eye patapons, the dancing trees, the weird animals and birds, pulled me into their midst. Taking on the role of the deity, the challenges to build my army with various kinds of patapon looking for food, figuring out what items to use to maximum advantage to give birth to new soldiers, making the Itchy tree dance and last but on the least fighting the evil Zigaton tribe made me wrack my brain for the optimum way of achieving the best result.

The magic of this game is in it's simplicity. Just when it lets you fall into a sense of security of having figured out the rhythm of the various beats so that you can move your army forward or launch an attack, it throws you a nasty curve which leaves you scrabbling to once again try to get back into the Groove and try to reach the FEVER pitch. The Fever allows you to gain an advantage over your current challenge, which can only be attained if you are being consistent in playing the PATA, PON, CHAKA or DON. Many a times you get so involved in what's going on in the video that you momentarily get thrown off track and forget the song that you thought you knew by heart a moment ago. The slightest distraction becomes unwelcome, for the fear of losing the grip you have so pain painstakingly achieved.



A novice like me can't really comment much on the technicalities of the game. Yet, for the first time, I got a tiny insight into the world of the gamers, where no goal is too far to achieve or no level too high to climb. A a sense of respect and admiration has now replaced the wonder I earlier felt for those who are willing to sit patiently for hours together sharpening their tactics. And least to say, Patapon has got a new admirer. This brings to memory my sheer enjoyment in playing the game in which a Big yellow dot repeated the words " pac man pac man" while eating power bites and running away from ghosts. Now, I just can't wait to put the headphones back on and groove to the music giving the calvary and myself another chance to embark on the journey to the Earthend. I'm also looking forward to giving my brother, an avid gamer himself, a taste of this two dimensional, beat loving world. But first, I need to find a way to pry the PSP out of my hubby's hands ...

It's raining today and I'm in another one of my philosophical moods. You have to excuse the wanderings of a volatile mind. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of visiting the Durga Temple, on RT 27, Princeton. And I'm pleased to say it brought on one of those rare moments in which I feel truly proud of being a Hindu. Though I was feeling more blessed since the trip to that temple was seemingly fated. We seldom visit temples and yet this trip turned a regular day into an almost magical one with all the signs that seems to be flying around. I'm being cryptic here but it's just a feeling without any sound basis. The temple though just a building from the outside as one could imagine in a foreign country, is the epitome of human faith in the Gods, in all forms as we know them. The Idols ( murtis ) are incredibly beautiful in all their splendor having been dressed up to perfection. In all gold and silver and bright pinks and yellows that refresh the eyes and soul. The feeling around the temple is one of calm and awe that comes from strong faith. All around me was the dignified silence of people in prayer, even though I could see the continuous upkeep being done to maintain the Idols. I have seen enough temples to recognize that This one was unique and impressive in more ways than one where the presence of God could be felt, sans the sounds of the people who are vocal in prayer.

These days, specially in India, it's hard to feel blessed in a temple without having to stand in a long line and pray loud enough so that you can be heard above the babel of the crowd. And then there is the sad state of the actual temple that makes you wonder where exactly all those donations end up. Recently, relatives of mine desired to donate some ornaments for the statue of Lord Shiva and were stopped by the temple authorities from adorning the God. On asking for an explanation, there mere answer was that They should have been consulted before, as to what needs to be donated to the temple. I may not be learned in the scriptures but I do know that one's faith is one's own and what they desire to do in the name of God is their choice. Why then, would anyone want to stop you, when you were donating something and Not taking away ?! Such events tend to disillusion one as to what actually people do, in the name of God, when they are adamant on having donations in exactly the means they desire. Yesterday, I was pleased to see there are people out there who even in far off lands, try to keep up the traditions in all their splendor and more. For in only such a place could One actually feel completely enthralled by the presence of God.

Specially, someone like me, who isn't really religious in the traditional sense, though I'd like to be but lack the necessary faith to make it a part of my routine. It was a unique experience to have my faith re instituted by the mere sight of beauty of the Idols present. It was almost like they could look at me and their perfection defied me to contradict Their existence. Never have I been so moved to the point of total belief. Except maybe at Sidhivinayak in Mumbai , Mahim church also in Mumbai and a church I'd visited when I was quite young in Goa. For me, Hinduism has always been a way of life, and I have always enjoyed the freedom it allows me to practice my faith in Any way that I please. Be it in a temple, on the road or lying in my bed having a one to one with the Big Guy knowing that He's always around to lend a ear with all His understanding. I have a close friend to thank for re assuring me of the fact that God is all forgiving as He understands best who you are and what you're going through at every point of your life. In time, I came to understand too, that though He might not answer me right away and magically solve my difficulties, things to have a way of working out in the long run. I'm sure He has his reasons for all that happens, after all it's our choices that affect our life in the end. He can only guide the way or give us a nudge in the right direction. Being honest and kind to all and trying your best to follow a righteous path is the essence at the end of the day. All that's meant to happen will happen in it's own good time, provided we Try to make the best decisions we can whenever a fork comes on the path we're walking on and keep walking in good faith.

I'm not sure, but that's how I'd like to believe things work. Having lost my faith in every sense of the word and having had it restored in due time, I've come to believe that there is a reason for all that happens provided we keep our eyes open and try to learn from every experience. My belief in God and his ways is still a work in progress, growing stronger slowly and surely. Though it still haunts me why some people who are truly faithful and religious never get their just dues despite being loyal and true in life as well. And find some others, who are religious in every way, though not exactly honest to anyone else, are amply rewarded ( or so it feels ). I'm well aware that everyone has their own demons to tackle but then why is it that some of higher faith seem to be tested more than others ?! Maybe it's just God's way of telling them that they have yet more to learn ?! Sometimes I wish that life came with a set of instructions at birth with consequences attached. That certainly would make things easier for all of us. Oh wait ! We do have those instructions, passed on from generation to generation in the form of teachings of the Bible, Quran, Gita, mythological stories or just words from elders. It would do us good to keep in mind the meanings behind tales of mythology or others' experience.

Maybe as years go by and I learn more in life, I'll have a better understanding of how the power of faith actually works, but for now, I'm just thankful for all that's come my way and pray for a more prosperous future for myself and all that I hold dear. Hopefully, a day will come when all our questions will get answered, one way or another. Till then I guess all we can do is hold onto our own set of beliefs and have faith for in the end, without Hope there would be no Life.

There's something about coming back home from a long time spent away. The comfort of knowing that is your domain to do as you may. And for me, this was a revelation as till Now, I was missing my own home, the one that I spent days before my marriage in. Where all my friends are, wondering when I would be making the trip back.

I guess, having put together furniture and tit-bits to make a home that's comfortable and to our exact taste is what makes is My Own. They say home is where the heart is, and it makes perfect sense that a person reminisces about their own comfort zone when in another land. I'm sure it may have more to do with the personality we give the place as per our designs rather than the actual place but it was incredible that even though I was having the time of my life and enjoying the leisures provided, I had a nagging sensation that I was missing something. Something essential to my being.


I was just ecstatic imagining being back in My bed with the comforter and my table lamp, books and things just the way I like them. Watching my favorite TV shows and enjoying my favorite meals. What struck me as I entered was the smell. Closed houses all might invariably get enveloped in the same musty, closed smell. But This reminded me of the apartment I spent the first decade of my life in, and it was amazing as it brought back memories i hadn't thought of in ages. Those old days spent jumping around on the bed. My parents picking me up and hauling me around. Splashing around in the bath. Running around the house creating a ruckus with the neighborhood kids. Being fed after school, while watching Popeye, Tom and Jerry or Betty Bo Beep. Playing with my Barbies in the doll house my dad put together. Dancing around in my clothes tailored by mommy dearest. Playing with toys collected over the lavish birthday parties. Good times indeed.

And now, I make a home of my own. To build my own memories in with my own family. Memories that make up our whole lives. Those precious moments always willing to be relived over and over again bringing a smile to our faces each time. Like our trip to Memphis. That seems like a distant dream now. As soon as our feet hit the Newark airport, it was hard to believe those wonderful days had actually been spent in another place. As days go by and I look at the pictures over and over again, I think of how blissful those days were and how wondrous it is to be able to come back to a place that we together call Home.

Memphis is definitely growing on me. The warm, balmy weather, the mighty Mississippi, the long walks around the town, the cute trams on the road, the colorful places, the friendly people and above all the total relaxation one finds in just being on vacation from the usual. BEALE street with it's colorful bars and great music is just tantalizing. And the food I've been enjoying, is just to die for. Specially, since it's not me doing the cooking.



Just yesterday, I had the pleasure of wonderful company and a cozy evening. Thunder, lightning and rain aside, it was just pleasant being shown around the pretty sights. Their cats and beautiful home, all in the midst of a pretty little village were just a sight to behold. And the watercolors that adorned their home, my oh my ! It totally amazed me that someone I knew had such a vast collection, brought together over the years from all over the world. I never get to see much of art or paintings that I'd like to but to be able to feast my eyes on such works of art in a single evening really made my day.



















The way colors in a picture jump out at you, and to only imagine how wondrously the artist put together a picture with their own hands conveying to us the colors they see. To see a place through the eyes and art of another only goes a long way in educating one of the vast amount of talent and beauty hidden in every crevice of the world. It is astounding how any person can so vividly to able to put their expression onto a canvas and in turn capture the admiration and respect of another.




















I had visited MOMA ( Museum of Modern Art) recently and though I'm sure people much more articulated and cultured than me would disagree, I failed to understand how lines crossed to intersect at a point or a crumpled paper could in any way be conceived as art ?! It was incredible how even a Blank canvas with red paint splashed across it in different shades, discovered many years ago in a house was considered art by concocting a detailed explanation of what the artist Might have thought. Who's to say that wasn't someone testing what shade would suit their walls? The visit to the museum was interesting, entertaining and at quiet a few places totally incredible, albeit questionable to the common mind as to why and how certain pieces come to be declared as outputs of talent. How Does one compare crayon like markings to a Monet ?! I'm at a loss to comprehend such a vast difference. Maybe at a later point in time, being more educated on the same, I might understand but I can't at this point of time help being amused and baffled.





















Once again, I only bring this up in contrast to the instant in which you look at a painting filled with vibrant colors, of a scene in a far off land and it simply takes your breath away. A watercolor that is so detailed in it's finesse and so vivid in it's tones that you can almost imagine yourself in another time and place. A vision that holds you in it's clasp so tightly that you find yourself being lost in each stroke and marvel at the talent that created the masterpiece. Call me a orthodox but That's what I call art. I only hope to get more chances to be thrilled by such marvelous works of art, allowing me to humbly play the part of the raptured audience.

In complete contrast to the discomfort and frustration was the beauty of the flight taking off over the clouds. Going higher over the cotton balls and looking at the sun set far below was a sight for sore eyes, pun intended. Once again I found myself, marvelling at the magic of aviation that allows us not only to reduce the time spent in travelling but in being able to see the beauty of the sky so high in all it's glory. Seeing the houses below and how man has constructed houses, roads, pools, cities is just incredible. To fathom the vastness of the earth below and then to imagine the unexplored universe, seems practically impossible till you are high above looking down at everything that nature and man has created. Good or bad, it's all right here. As the night set in, the cities lit up in all colors like the sky does with it's millions of starts. At one point, it was hard to conceive where the earth ended and the stars began. On the other hand, letting my imagination go wild for one moment, I even imagined earth to be similar to Star Ship Enterprise floating around, hoping to find someone else out there one day. The magic of electricity, my friends ! I know science is the actual root of all that allows us to ponder over such things, but Magic is just a better word.

Well, finally I'm down here, in a new city now. Our luggage miraculously made it and with my tales to friends I learnt that such horrors are common place in the lives of passengers flying in any US airlines. Either the flight is delayed, the seats are cramped, the luggage arrives late or is misplaced or you just might get onto the wrong flight with all the confusion. Travel by air in the US hardly seems worth it. But now that I'm sitting on the 12th floor, overlooking the Mighty Mississippi it I'm just glad to be here now and hope I make it back home in one piece.

" The Only thing constant is life is Change. "

Evey second of our life brings about an chance to make a decision. To take that moment and make what you wish out of it. To turn your life around or to keep going the way you are. To smile, drop a tear or just blow it away in a whistle of worry. Mold it like clay into what we would like to see it. Seconds become days and days make the life we desire.

As days pass by and we look back, there might be some decisions we wish we had taken differently. But what's more important is to learn from them and make sure the next path we take is a better one that that.

Live life fully in the moment. Laugh, love, make the best of what you have and what you are at that time. Never regret that you didn't at least try to be the best version of you, you can become.

No matter what happens in days gone by, it's all a big part of what we are today. Good or bad, it might not be much but it's important. That's what led us to the roads that we are walking on today. The past is used in the past tense for one reason and one reason only. It's gone by. Holding onto it holds no value as long as you don't imbibe the lesson that comes with the smiles or tears gone by. More that what happened is important to know what part of us led to that moment and needed to be changed.

In each one of us there is a something special hidden deep within, just struggling to come to the surface and shine through. We just need to be able to be willing to keep trying. In any small way to attain the possibilities we dream for ourselves. It might not be easy to turn all our dreams into realities but if we try hard enough some may. Life keeps on changing. While we are unaware, our stories take turns we could never have imagined. But we can at least try to choose the ending we would like. Our own happy endings ...

Spent another lovely evening with friends yesterday. It's so relaxing just hanging around with a couple of like minded people, laughing over the silliest things, talking about older times, philosophy or the latest gossip. Having a heart to heart with those close to us. Resolving silly problems that seem Huge when mulled over alone. Sorting out differences that may have arisen from a silly misunderstanding and growing closer in the process. Teasing, taunting each other over our fabled or true blemishes. Sharing a meal or delighting over a a game well played. Cheating and then justifying our actions on top of our voices, laughing like crazy knowing we will get caught eventually.

There is surely nothing that can compare to the spice that comes from just the right people in your life. To make you laugh, share your experiences, give a shoulder to times when you need a little support or a badly needed shove in the right direction. It's true that sharing our joys multiply them and our worries get halved. Subconsciously, we always search for the kind of people with whom we can be at the same level of view points. Someone who shares our likes, dislikes or cares for the same values in life. That's where the ever important First Impression Click comes from. And once in place, the path that the friendship is to take starts taking shape. A path that can lead us to new horizons and help us grow.

Even in marriage, it's of vital importance to be friends with the person you'd like to spend your life with. It's important to find someone who can do all the above and also be willing to stand by you through everything life throws at you. It's just as important to be able to just Talk to your partner as it is for the person to fulfill your set criteria. Someone who meets your values in life and with whom you can just have fun. Feel safe, even in silence knowing that you are there for each other.

Yet, even in marriage time comes when you feel the need for a vibrant interaction with peers. To enjoy outings with a group, sharing colorful cuisines, or just debate over mundane topics and being able to exchange parts of our lives giving us windows into each others worlds. To be able to see and understand ourselves better having looked through the eyes of another. Having a life apart is as important to spending time together. I heard somewhere, in a marriage two halves can not make One ie if you are dependent on your spouse to build a life together, it's going to be an uphill climb. So make sure to open the gates every once in a while and let others' tales and experiences enrich your lives.

Do not mistake me. I do not claim friendship is without fault and dangers. It's essential to find people who will be healthy for you and whom you can depend on. Someone who truly wishes the best for you and opens a world different from yours, with a light hand that lets go when your ways do not meet. Yet be willing to say the right thing even if it hurts you, if it shows you the mirror to your wrong doings. That said, it's essential to have set limits to expectations that may arise from a a false sense of closeness.

Not everyone is as giving, truthful or caring as they say or desire to be. It's vital that we differentiate the priorities of people we are in contact with so as not to get hurt by their actions in the long run. Many a times, people mistake words to equate to actions. That rarely happens. And we need to be fully aware of the signs that help define the lines between us. In this I believe, you should have the 100- 50 % principal. Assuming you are willing to give 10o % , it's valid only when you have only the expectation of 50 % from the other person. Any less and the relation is not worth investing in. Equal or more at Any given point, and that relation should be nurtured and cared for.

There are also people who are so self involved that they even forget basic courtesies and many times don't even realize that they are offending those they hold close. And yet, they claim to care for and be concerned about your welfare. Be wary of such people who are oblivious of their own actions and the subsequent impressions created. Friendship is based on mutual respect and trust on the fact that one cares for another. If these words are not seen to be interpreted into actions then it's advantageous to limit one's affections.

All in all, a healthy friendship is a big part of any relation in life, making every moment worth twice the enthusiasm and half the sorrow. It's the elixir of life, which enriches your being in every way, specially when enjoyed in moderation.

I was wondering today of how there is a story behind every person. Imagine if you could somehow see snatches of the colorful lives of people you come across. Often standing at a market or sitting in a restaurant I look at the people around me. I wonder who they are and how they came about to be in this place and what would come of their life. Whether in some way, having noticed them I may have affected some part of my own life. I've heard it many a times and it IS fun, to just make up a story for each person's life and come up with what they would say or do given any situation.

Each of us passes through a number of rainbows or puddles. Each of us leave an impression, however small on the people whose life we pass through. Sometimes, I hear a story about a person I've never even met and when I repeat it to someone else in fascination I wonder whatever might have happened to the person concerned. I know it might make me sound very gossipy but then who isn't ?! We all love a juicy tit bit now and then. Imagine a world where there was no human interaction, and we didn't have any stories to tell.

Even the mythology, legends of myths we all relish are sure to have Some basis in fact. I'd like to believe that. What is life without a little faith in magic or mystery? After all, it IS human nature to hear a story that May be based in facts and multiply it exponentially to the fascination level one would like to achieve when the time comes to repeat it. The multiplying is wrong, admittedly. Then again its to such diligent story tellers we may be in gratitude, for our history lessons. Once in while, when I'm arguing with someone over a myth or event from history, I must over the number of things that probably were Never mentioned or recorded or even destroyed in time. I wish a lot more people felt safe enough to maintain diaries so that we had accurate accounts of how life used to be concisely.

I guess it's this wishful thinking that disturbs me at the liberties people take with the truth or the number of fascinating stories we may be missing out on. Thankfully there are a number of fiction writers around, so that we can learn something about life from peoples' experiences assuming their stories have some basis in truth...

The more we try to grasp at the butterfly that they call Happiness, the more it seems to go out of our reach. The more we try to bring reason to someone, to have Them try to grasp it, the more they plead ignorance. We are defeated either way, when we chase it for ourselves or for someone we love. The only way one might have hope for That elusive eternal smile, is to just bid our time and wait. Hoping that as the moments fly by everything in our life culminates into one moment of reason where everything makes sense. Every memory, incident, or worry that we carry deep within us, will have some logic to it when the big picture comes into view.

Happiness may be found in the Now. In the words exchanged with a loved one, in a smile that touches our heart, in a walk around the market, in a gift received with love, in a game played with laughter, in a delicate meal that enriches the palate, any one moment in which we smile or are at peace. Every moment we lived, thats a sweet memory now or will become a fond thought soon. Just a moment.

Yet many a times, we lose sight of the present in what we could have, need more of, or thought we deserved and didn't get. We dream of the lost time in which we could have become something else, something more, that we think would have make us happy forever. We brood over the lost, the gone, the failures, the tears, the anguish and forget about living today and making a tomorrow. Working on making something of what we have today so that we can worth something in our eyes, if no one else's. No one might appreciate us, no one might care, but we do know what we did, what we are, what we can be. Besides, I'm fairly sure that at any given time, there is always at least one person who touches your life, values your actions and the smile in your eyes. Isn't that cause enough to be happy in the thought that there are possibilities? That there is hope at the end of this seemingly endless tunnel?

There is a light that guides us through every path of light. A flicker, if you may, that tells us that we can make it through the darkest moment, with all the strength we can muster. Let that light, whatever or who ever that might be in this moment, be your reason to smile.

Last weekend, among shopping, bowling and tv, I had the pleasure of enjoying authenti chinese food. Being a spicy freak, I was suitably surprised to learn that I do enjoy this cuisine as well( thankfully, it was not completely bland ). I had always wanted to try out this kind of food, not just for a new experience but to see how they gave the take out in those cute rice cartons like we see on tv. And I was Not dissappointed in the least. The service was very friendly ( i believe the shop is run by a family) and I loved the ambience, which led me and my hubby to get to talking about how few of such "mom and pop stores" are left.

The big chains of restraunts have got the food service industry down to a science. They have helped the economy and the working lot and made sure we are all fed after the long bouts of shopping in the mall. Yet, I can't help but feel sorry about the slow loss of the charm of the small restraunts and shops, which make you feel practically at home and where the customer is king. To be treated with respect, courtesy and above all be glad to see a personal touch to everything, from the menu to the service.

I for one, am appalled at the lack of customer service there is in malls and chain stores. It is rare to find someone around to help you and if you do, you're lucky if you can find someone who Knows what you are talking about. Or for the matter, be aware of what they Should be talking bout. On the off chance, I find someone who does Any of the above, my heart glows in appreciation. Anyway, my point is not to complain about the big stores but rather to explain by contrast how important and comforting it is to go into a small shop or cafe or restraunt and be welcomed and be charmed and be educated about a product or a recipe. To be able to cringe and laugh over the price said of an item and later enjoy the haggling over the said price knowing you would be able to get it for less than half. And how I enjoy getting something thrown in free, or for much lesser price so that that sales person knows that he's earned yet another loyal custormer.

All in all, though the big chains are essential for the convenience they provide, I believe one should also begin to fully appreciate the charm and ambience that can only come for the shops that are down the street.

Lot of people read books, and lot of people don't. Yet, many a times I'm seen with my current interest, I hear the comment similar to," How is it that you can read so much? "or the more common, " I could never read that way." Honestly, sometimes I wonder why people forget that going through newspapers, and surfing the net also involves a lot of reading as well.

These days I have the luxury of going to the library and picking up a huge pile to keep myself occupied throughout the month. I think my husband is still amazed at the number of books I make him carry home. Never been into serious literature (though I try it once a while) , I read a Lot of fiction and love disappearing into the make believe. Love the smell of old and new books, though Some books plain stink these days :). And I love the feel of each page passing through my fingers. Don't get me wrong. I surf the net as much as the next person, yet the thought of cozying up into a blanket on my bed under my bedside lamp or a wrapped up sitting on chair leafing through pages gives me immense pleasure.

I started when I was young. Where I was, there was little for kid to do, other than stay at home, watch movies or read. Started with Archies, Richie Rich, Tinkle, Amar Chitra Katha ( that gave me all the knowledge of our mythology ). Moving onto Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew, Famous Five, Secret Seven. And then I went onto fiction, murder mysteries like Agatha Cristie, Perry Mason. Then came the Danielle Steeles and Sydney Sheldons. How can I not mention, the evergreen Readers Digest as a source of information on most walks of life ( though, they and all other magazines have gotten monotonous in their list of articles with time ). And then, being a girl, I was of course drawn to the Mills and Boons types of books. One day after picking up a book my elder bro got from college [ As the crow flies ] , I was hooked on Jeffry Archer. Am one book away from completing my collection but then his writing seems to be getting dissappointing. Then there was the tide of Harry Potter series, Bourne and Dan Brown. I still say movies can't live up to the charm of the book. Currently, on my nightstand I have the company of different authors including Ayn Rand, Wilbur Smith, James Patterson, Jackie Collins and Elizabeth Gage... After all these years, I have realized I have not outgrown Any of these books... The characters, their life, their statements

My bro and I used to love going to my aunt's house in Goa every year, specially to sit in the balcony by the sea and go through the comics and as we grew older novels. My uncle, and His sisters were avid readers when they were young and had a library to die for. My bro and I would run for That room as soon as we could, to go through as many books as we could get our greedy eyes on. Come to think of it, it was like candy to us. Even if it meant reading slyly, at the cost of our studies or getting scolded. If given an option, we always asked for books as gifts. Books gave us soothing company through long journeys, boring moments, lonely times or when seeking alone time. Till date, even though he's 10 years younger to me, we discuss all sorts of books we've read. By the way, He's heavily into Manga these days, and I just don't get it ( generation gap ??? ) . I've even developed a habit of always having a book close to my pillow to help calm me to sleep, on restless days.

There is never a dull moment, when I have a book close at hand. I believe, most books influence the way we think and in some or the other way affect our lives by touching a part of us, we never knew existed. Though I try to widen my net of authors and subjects, often I find myself wishing I could be as diligent a student. To date, there tons of books lying at my parent's place , lying in a cupboard untouched. I hope some day I can get my hands back on then or the legacy passes on.

I'd like to know of there are others out there, for whom books are a way of life or how certain books have influenced them. Maybe I could try them next... :)

The perspective of every person is subject to the situation they are in. Everyone knows that. But do they know that it is easier to get a handle on the true situation were they to take a step back and look at the full picture? Though sensible, it's practically impossible to do that. If we took each of memories - good or bad and turn them around in our hands looking through the eyes of each person, we would find that every sight is different from another's angle.

I'm sure many of us have all wished other's to put themselves in our shoes and try understanding our viewpoint. But it's only when we put ourselves in their shoes can we grasp the actual scenario. It's funny how when I look back on events in my life now, i sometimes realize what/how things must have seemed to another. Though, at the time, the flow of the moment never gives you the time to think before acting.

Many times, having put myself in another's shoes I realized that it can be shocking how little thought people put into their actions but later come to the conclusion, it's not yourself you should put in the shoes but the person you're thinking of. Only then can sense be made of any experience.

Only that doesn't cut it either coz in the end every person is allowed the justification - That's the way I am... which is no excuse !!!! And the cycle continues .