Bits n Pieces

Music Monday

2011-12-26T21:57:00.002+05:30

You know the kind of day when you have everything you want but still feel lost somehow? Like there's a whole somewhere and even the loveliest things in life feel like not good enough to fill it. Monday can be synonymous to one such day, specially if you have had a busy busy weekend. And no, I haven't found a song for such days yet. And just out of the blue, I'd almost made up my mind to skip the post today but then I realized I just COULDN'T miss it on the last Monday of 2011. So, here's one song that I loved at first listen.

Piano is one instrument I love immensely and when a song begins with piano solo, you can be sure the rest 3 minutes will be worth the listen. This songs has a lovely instrumental start followed by equally good vocals. Its been on my playlist for a few months now even though I don't listen this track quite often. I guess saved, for days like these.

13 Senses - Into The Fire

Hope you have a pretty Last Week of 2011 :)

xoxo

What Needs To Be

2011-12-23T18:34:00.002+05:30

What Needs To Be a photo by Defiant Princess* on Flickr.

The relationship needs us

to have a desire to commit.

Its needs us to be who we are

No pretense, lies and manipulations.

But you can be all the pretty things

except what you are at heart.

We can't be what we dream of

if you don't let out the real you.

The Difference

2011-12-21T18:19:00.000+05:30

Her love,

she said

was meant

For Him.

His love,

He said

was born

For Her.

The difference

between

their definitions

was of persons.

Music Monday : Songs of Christmas

2011-12-19T21:18:00.000+05:30

The thing I like the most about Christmas is that there are so many songs about it. We don't have a hundred songs composed about Diwali or Eid. No one romanticizes these two festivals as they romanticize Christmas. Studying in a catholic school all my life made me fond of Christmas even more.. I miss rehearsing carols every December and then singing them on the stage on a chilly morning right before the celebrations. Now school's over but the love for Christmas and its songs still remain.Since this is the Christmas week, I decided to share some of my favorite songs that should be on your playlist too. You might have heard some before some might be new for you but you must listen them again and feel the love. And oh, just to mention, I have special fondness for Glee which clearly reflects in this playlist. They sing these songs so well, I can't help but play them again and again and ask everyone else to listen too.

1. All I Want For Christmas Is You - Glee
This song gets to be my favorite this season, been listening it since November. And the way they shot it in the episode was even better! Love is the word for this one.

2. Baby Its Cold Outside - Michael Buble

The man with a deeply seductive voice. His beckoning the lover to stay is oh so intimate.

3. Blue Christmas - Glee
Sung by the new guy in the show, the most emotional track in the list. There are maannnyy versions of Blue Christmas and this one is by far the best one i've heard.

4. River - Sarah MacLachlan
" I made my baby cry.." just heard this song and its stuck in my head. Touching vocals and lyrics.

5. Last Christmas - Glee
Rachel sings it to Finn in a year old christmas episode, almost makes you cry. Also the best version of Last Christmas i've heard. Even better than Taylor Swift's.. now you can imagine :)

6. Christmases When You Were Mine - Taylor Swift
How can I miss her on the playlist when she's sung few songs about christmas already?! This one is my most favorite song after Santa Baby from TS's christmas record.

7. Extraordinary Merry Christmas - Glee

Ending the playlist with the happiest song. This one makes you really feel the joys and makes you wanna dance to the beats.

These are the tracks i've been hooked to all december long, shared with you so you can enjoy the holiday spirit with some lovely music. To mention others, I love Santa Baby by Taylor Swift, Jingle Bell Rock in Mean Girls and the carols Silent Night, Joy To The World.. oh I know them all by heart and yes, we sang them best in school so no other singer can sing it any better for me.
:)

Any favorite songs or carols?
Share with me

Letter To Santa : My Mini Christmas Wishlist

2011-12-18T00:40:00.000+05:30

Dear Mr Santa,
Hello, how do you do? I know you had quite a tough time last year searching for all the things I asked you for and don't worry! I'm not angry with you for not checking off my list too. I found some alternatives to my wishes and they fit in pretty well, I must say. But this time again, I ask you for things I desperately need, not want. So please be kind enough and send an elf with the packages and magic wands or whatever you do to make things come true.

1. Few more digits on the weighing scale : dear Santa, please send something miraculous that can help me put on some weight. You know I've been a really good girl and doing the overeating as well, I just want you to save me the trouble of waiting for months and gain those few digits on the weighing scale asap. Trust me, I wont be the only person who'd be happy with this.

2. Books : You know how much I've been craving to read? I'm just loving the smell of new books. I sniff off from them every once in a while and get lost in it. I so badly need to make a mini library and I've been making efforts too. But you see, a girl with limited resources and much overpowering wants can't do it all alone.. you've got to get me a 100 new books or at least 50. A new book a week for one whole year, wouldn't that be fantastic! I'll love you forever if you gift me those. I have many other things to look after as well so you take care of the books ok?

3. Time : I've heard "what do you do all the time that you're so busy?" so many times in 2011 that I feel like I need to find where all my time has gone! To say it simply, I want you to make me punctual. yes, that's what I want to be. No i'm not asking you to tell me to compromise with the sleep hours at all. I want to sleep for the required 8-9 hours and then not miss out on anything important, a person or thing during the day.

4. World Peace : No i'm not contesting for any beauty pageants. There's been so much bloodshed and revolutions in this year that I want a very peaceful 2012, in case it is the last year for all of us. Please make people a little more patient, a little more understanding and a little more supportive. And yes, do solve Anna Hazare's problem too. If you don't fulfill Anna's wish, he'll start the new year in a pretty dramatic way. Please don't make him do that. Its not a good thing carrying previous year's burden into next after all.

5. Not Losing Anymore, Things or People : Dearest Santa, I know its a part of life to lose things along the way. And when one asks for so many things, it should be ok for them to lose some other but you know I don't quite like that law. I got a lot of things this year, all so good and wonderful. But then I lost some utterly precious ones and then the ones that I got didn't matter to me at all. This year, I want you to keep a check on all my stuff. Install some gps or something so that you can alert me when a thing's out of place.

That's it. I don't have a fireplace so i'll hang the stocking by the window. And if you decide to disappoint me, send me your "How To Be Santa For Dummies" guide please, i'll make the most of it myself.

Love,
xoxo

Picture Quote : Solitude

2011-12-16T19:40:00.001+05:30

Solitude a photo by Defiant Princess* on Flickr.

Yet another blackout experiment :)

created from The Speaking Tree in Times Of India, 15 December 2011.

Music Monday

2011-12-12T18:56:00.001+05:30

You know there is always that one singer whom you love and respect more than anyone else? You might not listen their songs too often but you know them all by heart and when you're listening them, you cant help but sing along? Lady Gaga is one such singer for me. I respect her, I adore her. And even though i've written posts about her before, i'd share her songs whenever I feel the need to. This time, its the song You and I. I don't know the real story behind this song, I don't know what it really means anyway but i'm addicted to this track lately. Maybe because this song is about the mystery that surrounds two people.. There's always something about certain people that we don't understand but its all the more attractive, magnetic. There's always something about that special someone that you just can't ignore. This song's about them, I guess. You & I.
You must listen it, not sure if you would like or love..but you should.
There's always something about Gaga songs. They get stuck in your head after listening a few times, all for a good reason ofcourse.
:)

Lady gaga - You and I

"We got a whole lot of money, but we still pay rent
'Cause you can't buy a house in Heaven"

"Something, something about just knowing when it's right"

Who is your favorite singer/musician?
You like Gaga as much?
Share with me :)

Music Monday : Post Breakup Playlist For Girls

2011-12-05T17:53:00.001+05:30

Love's beautiful. Love is magical. Love is everything wonderful we can imagine of. But when that love turns out to be awful, crazy and consumes all the positivity out of you, you should know its time to break up. Break ups are heartbreaking. Breakups are depressing. Breakups often get ugly too. But eventually, we survive, we learn a lesson and move on. BUT what's the most dreadful part is the mourning period. When you're mourning the loss of your love, first, second or whatever number it be, no amount of words can comfort your sweet little broken heart and you keep wishing to turn it all around. This mourning period is when most girls get emotionally harassed. A single thing the guy does is like a stab in the chest. He flirts with a new girl on twitter, you spend entire night thinking why would he do that to you. He dedicates a song to a girl*SPACE*friend and your heart's broken pieces are further shattered into dust when you reminisce all the times he dedicate you a song.. the list of things HE does wrong during the break up period never ends. At this time, only and only music can help you recover (if temporarily). No, I do not suggest listening those soppy heart break songs no matter how much you can relate to them. They make you feel even worse. I suggest an entirely different, "I'm So Happy I Got Rid of You" playlist. You need to hate him first to reach the level of not feeling anything about whatever he does. You need songs that mocks everything that he does, everything that he's done wrong so far. If he cheated, if he lied, if he's still hurting you, if he's made you choose and even if he's too good to hate..whatever reason it didn't work out for. You've got to listen these songs to get over him. Cuz moving on is much much better than being stuck in the past, no matter how you do it.

Sharing here my top 10 personal favorite songs to get you through a break up, For The Ladies :

1. Adele - Rolling In The Deep

The song of 2011, anthem of every recently broken up girl or the girls still in love-hate relationship with the ex. Adele didnt just fire up the charts but gave us a reason to cherish the song. Awesome music and lyrics, this one's got to be no. 1.

2. Kristinia DeBarge - Cried Me A River

The most frequent activity after a break up is crying. Crying all night and then waking up like a zombie, putting on eye make up to disguise the dark circles and swollen eyes.. its all a part of it. This song says it all. Crying a river and crying a sea and then finally running out of tears!

3. Alison Iraheta - Friday I'll Be over You

It just takes a week to fall in and out of love, or so the song says. Another cool, punch full of attitude song.

4. Paramore - Ignorance

One thing EVERY guy does during a break up is ignore you to the limit it gets on your nerves and get you suicidal ! Its frustrating, annoying and what not! It surprises you how he doesnt notice the 10 missed calls or n number of texts you send him while you're crying over him. Ignorance suddenly becomes his new best friend. That's what Hayley Williams croon in this number.

5. Taylor Swift - Picture To Burn

Rethinking the relationship and all the awful things about it, this song's about it all. Proving it to him that you're not bitter instead better and that you wont miss out on plotting revenge. The best it can do for you is to shatter the guy's ego when you post it up on facebook!

6. Esmee Denters - Outta Here

When you're too tired of crying. This one was suggested by a friend 2 decembers ago and i've loved it ever since! She sings about all the things that have changed about HIM, which eventually happens with all of us.

7. Katy Perry - Hot n Cold

That awful time when the guy gives you mixed signals post break up and you don't even know if you should be hopeful about getting back together or just leave it behind, its for HIM cuz he can't make up his own mind and messes with yours as well. "A Case of Love Bi-Polar"

8. Lily Allen - Smile

After having a bad relationship, a bad break up and surviving through it, you sometimes wish the worst to your ex. You wish upon things that makes him cry, or even better you go ahead and do that. Its always better when you put the halo aside and wear the devil horns cuz well, he did terrible things to you too.

9. Pink - So What

No matter how good a relationship had been, you always need an attitude of a rockstar. Pink is the one who can make you believe so! This is the song that should be stuck in your head, all the time.

10. Orianthi - According To You

When you finally find someone who appreciates you for everything that he hated you for, even if its just a best friend or a friend who's helping to get you through it. The guitar solo and lyrics of this song are fabulous!

And to say the least, All you need to get over a break up is a best friend, loads of chocolate and an ipod with songs like these on repeat. :)

Did you like the playlist?
Got any personal favorites of your own?
Share with me.
xoxo

BB Clicks

2011-11-27T13:59:00.001+05:30

I keep clicking pics from my blackberry no matter how inferior quality pics can be cuz of the 2mp cam.

And, I've had a long pile of unseen pics in my folders. So here's another go. And yes, these pics look extremely unattractive. Blame my laziness for not beautifying them up a little.

From L to R.

1. Hershey's a friend got me on Diwali. ate it ALL ALONE. yep :P

2. Sunset, lady waiting outside doc's clinic.

3. Mehrangarh fort at night, on eid :)

4.My first visit at Jama Masjid, Delhi. Had an awesome time while hogging seekh kebabs at karim's too.

5. The usual breakfasts at McDonalds. You know you're blessed when you dont have to eat alone :)

Another collection coming up soon.

xoxo

Wishing Upon Time

2011-11-23T12:58:00.001+05:30

Juggling between tutions, homework and sleep, there's hardly any time left for me to do what I love..

To read, write and the most important one, spend time with the people I love. I'm just 21. I don't work.. I just study. I don't tweet as much as I used to, I dont blog as much as I used to.. I don't read enough blogs and always forget to think of something to comment on the ones that I read regularly. I'm always running out of time.. there are soo many things piled up that I wish to do, I wanna find time to go for a walk each morning, I wannna find time to study more and study better, I wanna find time to sleep the needed 10 hours sleep ( yes, I NEED that much sleep..) I wanna watch all the great movies I've downloaded, I wanna listen more good music each day..But there's never enough time to do it all.

Briefing up here the things I would love to do if only I had two more hours a day..

Being the one who gets tired very easy and quick (blame Anemia!), I've always avoided visiting my grandparents who live far away from home. After moving out from the paternal house 10 years ago, I could barely ever find time to visit my grandparents. The only time I'd meet them would be either when they'd come home or on festivals and special occasions. First it was school and the pressure of doing well in the exams that kept me hooked with books all day long. After school got over, the long college hours replaced the former reason of not visiting the grandparents very often. The weekends would be spent either taking a break from the tiring week or catching up on movies and tv shows. and even before I'd realize, it'd be Monday again..! After college got over, the sudden pressure of "what now" had me so much engrossed in myself and other things that I rarely noticed I had a family to meet.

Last month my grandfather expired, and being the eldest grand daughter I was expected to stay there for a few days. Losing a person I was so close to during my childhood was sure enough heartbreaking for me.. but I was so stunned that I couldn't even let out the pain and cry. My eyes went dry. I kept on thinking "What was missing?" ..Later I found the answer to the question that kept me up all night. Over these 10 years, I somehow lost the bond between me and pa. I had almost forgotten all the little things about him..I'd forgotten how he would take me for a walk every evening and treat me with ice cream, how he would scold anyone who made me cry, how he would listen to me reciting the poems I learnt in school.. I only have faint memories now.. and that hurts me like a knife! I blame myself for not finding enough time to keep in touch with the people I care for. After pa was gone I realized how extremely brief this life is.. and what am I doing if I can't even find time to do what I love! I know I can't turn back time.. But if I get something extra of it, I'd surely know how to spend it. I made a schedule for myself last month, thinking I would work to make it work..(and sadly its in a bad status..)

I would visit my paternal family, my grandmother and the uncles and their families every Saturday. Staying at the paternal house for a few days I realized I don't even know much things about my cousins! I don't even remember how adorable my grandmother is.. I'm no longer my aunt's favorite niece to spend time with.. I must visit them often and feel like a family again. Why shouldn't I when there's not a single thing that's wrong or doesn't fit?! Similarly the Sundays are to be spent with the maternal cousins.. I hate the fact how i'm the only one who's missing all the hangout sessions with the kids who're pretty much grown up now, however young they might be to me ;)

I got back to reading this October. I'd been an avid reader till 12th grade, then college squeezed out all my time and I sailed far away from the literary world. After getting free from all the customary rituals post grandpa's funeral, I ordered 10 books from flipkart. The ones I've always wanted to read but kept on putting off for later. I suddenly realized the later never comes. But the problem comes when I start reading.. I lose the track of time which puts a lot of other things off track! Either I forget to revise the notes or I miss on a chunk of sleep which results in getting up late the next morning and a continued disrupted cycle.

Talking about writing, I get the most brilliant ideas either while i'm driving or when i'm in the shower. Since I tend to be a last minute person, I forget the wonderful thoughts right after I step out of the shower or get home! I sometimes remember a bit and do note points that strike my head in the middle of an ongoing lecture but then, I can never find enough time to sit back and just write and that gets so annoying, I start to hate myself for it!

AND, four years ago, I started with Urdu lessons after my mom insisted although I wanted to learn Spanish first. The classes were fine during the summer break but when the school session began, I started taking it as a burden and then eventually discontinued. I loved learning Urdu and I loved how my writing was getting better each day.. but being out of practice made me forget all the important things. Thus, I can only read the easy peasy words or just write names. I want to go back to learning Urdu and after that, I wanna start learning Spanish.. but DAMN! No Time.

I know I whine much and I could find some fractions of spare time if only I had an uber systematic schedule.. but

1. I'm weak and lazy.

2. Schedules are boring!

3. I don't have time to make a schedule on how to spend all my time :P

When thinking about two extra hours during bed time.. I was so lost in the Land of Thoughts that it started to seem almost real! I've already made out the plans. Now I just need those precious 120 minutes in my life that would stand out in the entire day. In a week, I would spend one hour on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for Language Lessons, One hour on Tuesday and Thursday for writing. The other One Hour goes into reading every day.. the two hours of saturday would be for visiting the paternal family and the two on sunday for the maternals! Perfect plan.. ta-da! half problem solved. Now managing the rest 24 hours.. uh well, i'd rather let them pass just like usual. They're too much to manage at once :P

I wish I can always..

And oh! there's this one song I usually listen in the mornings.. helps me get rid of guilt since i'm Always Running Out Of Time !

Thanks to Indiblogger and Surf Excel Matic #GetSmart Contest for making me dream a weird dream..getting two extra hours a day!

I would really wanna know if you're a reader, a writer or just another curious creature who wants to learn new languages but can never manage to find the time! And if you're the unique super punctual person who live a very systematic life then please share your secret time management tricks with me ;)

xoxo

Music Monday : Top 10

2011-11-21T21:35:00.001+05:30

At some point of time, all of us fall in love with Pop songs, just because they're cool and catchy. But when it comes to Rihanna's tracks, they have something more than the cool and catchy combo.. her a seductive and melodious voice. I love how she can sing songs roughly, sugar coat words or simply rap and make me love her in all versions! She's one singer i've never ever hated cuz she never fails to get us good music regularly :)

Today, her 6th record Talk That Talk released. While I played the new tracks all day long trying to "get used to" and find the next fav song, I realised I must share her top 10 songs that can be found in my playlists anytime.
In these ten songs, you can see how she evolved from an R&B singer to become a pop diva! This list a variation of love tracks, breakup tracks and dance tracks. Basically, songs to suit every mood. ;)

Here's the list :

1. Love The Way You Lie part 2
She surprised up all with this song. After the cameo in Eminem's first part of the song which was great, Rihanna went ahead and sang a "girl" version which turned out to be even better! No doubt it was a such a huge hit.. this one's got a permanent place in my playlist.

"In this tug of war, you'll always win
Even when I'm right
'Cause you feed me fables from your hand
With violent words and empty threats"

2. Rehab
When you're broken up and tryna get over, you tend to reevaluate the entire relationship.. this song somehow talks about it all. Maybe it is Thinking out loud and singing it. My Ever Fav track by RiRi. Once dedicated to someone and was on my Vh1 playlist 2010 as well :)

"Damn, ain't it crazy when you're love swept
You'd do anything for the one you love
Cause anytime that you needed me, I'd be there

Its like you were my favorite drug "

3. Umbrella ft Chris Brown
Yes, I loved that moment when the top two R&B artists collaborated and made an epic song. I just love it when Chris Brown says " Baby Girl You can be my Cinderella-ella-ella-ella-eh". This song is one of those instant types that get stuck in your head in just a few listens.

"You becoming a dream to me, a fairy tale fantasy,
nothin can ever compare an image to my memory.
Gurl I've asked u to be my queen, a vison on a magazine,
thats when I'll be there its something we both share."

4. P.S. (I'm Still In love With You)
This is the pleasantly melancholy song, when you have a lot of feelings but are past all the hurt and bitter emotions. Like you're so used to thinkin about them.. and you must let it know somehow. So, write a letter. oh, this one IS a letter sung out ;)

"guess you thought that I would put it all behind me
But it seems there's always somethin right there to remind me
Like a silly joke, or somethin on the t.v.

Boy it aint easy

When I hear our song

I get that same old feeling"

5. Te Amo
For a girl singing this song to another girl, this one's surely a dramatic song. The latin beats makes it pleasurable to listen, but its sad. Its her, telling her that she doesn't feel the same way.

"Te amo, te amo
she says to me
I hear the pain in her voice.."

6. Hate That I Love You ft Ne-Yo
One of my favorite duets, Ne-yo and Riri really get me in a lovey dovey mood with this song. Can't say much about it, you must listen!
"and I hate that I love you so.."

"no one in this world knows me the way you know me
So you'll probably always have a spell on me..."

7. Take a Bow
Broken hearted and Bitter : DEADLIEST combination to be. Perhaps the meanest a girl can ever get. Rihanna, shares OUR emotions out verrry well ;) Yes, calling him ugly when he cries, those jerkos deserves to be called so.. Its like a brand new attitude, tellin you not to cry over him, instead kick him back :D
Another Permanent Fav.

" And the award for
The best liar goes to you (goes to you)
For making me believe (that you)
That you could be faithful to me
Let's hear your speech, Oh"

8. Russian Roulette
A Heartbreakingly Sad Song. It feels like Rihanna has a subtle way of narrating a tale through her songs.. this one stands as the one best narrated! * it is actually scary when the trigger is pulled when the track ends*

"Say a prayer to yourself
He says 'close your eyes, sometimes it helps'
And then I get a scary thought
That he's here - means he's never lost "

9. Unfaithful
Good girls often find a great guy..and then they go ahead and cheat on him! What could be worse that he knows but loves her too much to let her go.. and she loves him as much to not keep on hurting him and tryna break up. This is yet another sad song you'd love listening to.

"Cause I know that he knows I'm unfaithful
And it kills him inside
To know that I am happy with some other guy
I can see him dying"

10. Please Don't Stop The Music
A Dance number without any doubts! Please dont stop the music..
:)

"Baby are you ready cause it's getting close
Don't you feel the passion ready to explode
What goes on between us no one has to know

This is a private show, oh "

If you've liked the songs mentioned then you can download THIS playlist HERE.
P.S. this list doesn't have the song " hate that I love you ", if you want the song no 6 then drop your email id, I would send :)

Music Monday

2011-11-14T23:25:00.001+05:30

Ola!

The worst thing that could ever happen to anyone on a Monday is a bad start followed by an awfully busy day. I had one hellova busy monday but at the end, lovely day. :)

Although I was about to skip this week's Music Monday post until half an hour ago cuz I had a "playlist" plan for today.. which couldn't really take a final form, blame procrastination; while listening the regular songs that I listen everyday, I just came across two songs that I felt like sharing with everyone else. These are the songs you would want your lover to dedicate to you.. cuz Ed Sheeran sings the words all us girls wanna hear ! Without saying much ( since i'm out of words already ).. listen the two songs and cherish the love.

Ed Sheeran - Lego House

I'm out of sight, I'm out of mind
I'll do it all for you in time
And out of all these things I've done I think I love you better now

Ed Sheeran - Kiss Me

Yeah I've been feeling everything
From hate to love
From love to lust
From lust to truth
I guess that's how I know you

Let me know if you like these two :)
xoxo

P.S. Oh. My. God. I didnt know Rupert Grint is in the music video of Lego House! you must must check it out, for the love of Ron Weasley and how cute that guy used to be!!!

The Eleventh Minute

2011-11-10T14:21:00.001+05:30

Its true, the things that bring change have a very insignificant beginning.. Here's my very ordinary 11:11 story.

The Number One has always played a great role in my life.. the least I can say about it is that it's twice in my birth date ! Somewhere in early 2009, I guess January.. I started noticing the 11th minute of every hour. It was weird to me.. how could it be possible that I was checking time exactly after AN HOUR all day long?! 7:11 , 8:11 , 9:11... and then 11:11. I liked the sight of that number.. 11:11 .. four ones. They looked so perfect. At first, I smiled at having noticed this minute. One has always been my favorite digit after all. It happened a few more times so I discussed this with my best friend who was amused at such a coincidence.. It didn't happen with her at all !

Then, it started becoming a regular occasion.. I'd check the time and it would be The Eleventh Minute. I'd heard about the Paulo Coelho novel with a similar name..it made wonder if it was something more than just time.. So I googled it and what I found out, changed a lot of things!

According to the first result, the 11:11 prompt was growing worldwide. Everyone had been noticing this minute, and not just once or twice but every day! It also said this was a sign from the spirits who wanted to communicate and get your attention by making you notice this time *since they can't just make themselves visible and talk like us humans*.. Some other sites reported it was a sign from the devil.. it freaked me out like crazy ! Numerous questions seemed to fill all the empty space in my head at night.. Why would the spirits want to communicate with ME!? Did I do something insanely wrong that disturbed the balance of nature!? Was I The Chosen One for something special?? and many more stupid, senseless questions that didn't let me sleep, out of fear. Somewhere around the dawn I realized, If these were the signs from devil, then I would turn to God for help. In that insignificant moment before the sunrise, I decided to make a wish and say a prayer ( The Durood ) whenever I noticed the digits 11:11 in the clock. I didn't fail to see them again next day, and just as I had decided, I said a prayer and made a wish. It just made me feel better! I felt like there was nothing wrong about it if I was saying god's name and making a wish.. even if it was considered as the Devilish minute.Later, I started tweeting "11:11" whenever I could. Not a single day would go without me noticing the minute.. and the only reason i'd miss would be sleep. At times, I would even wake up in the middle of deep slumber, I wonder why and check the time only to see the clock display 11:11. (Deep slumber, cuz I had a habit of waking post noon during vacations).

This minute gave me an excuse to make a wish, twice a day. Like any other crazy girl, I first started wishing for petty things ( that I wouldn't mention, not even if you lure me with a million dollars) but then I realized this was something special! I'd heard about girls setting up a reminder in their phones at 11:10 just so they could wish at 11:11.. I was the one noticing it effortlessly, I shouldn't waste those wishes just like that.. So I started wishing for better things. Things that weren't really the materialistic things, things not just for myself but for the people I cared for.. I started being unselfish. This minute made me a better person cuz I just wasn't praying or wishing for my own good but for the better of everyone else around me.. I never told anyone anything about my wishes. Some of them came true too soon and some took a long time, months perhaps. Some needs a lot more wishing to be true. but i'm hopeful that they eventually will.

AND while everyone on twitter kept asking me why was I tweeting at that minute, I would just say "making wishes" cuz explaining it in 140 characters wouldn't be possible..

This year, 2011.. everyone started getting insanely obsessive about 11/11/11. Yes it might just be a huge deal for those who believe in astrology.. but for me, it will just be another date with my favorite digit. Yes, the two minutes on this day will be incredibly special to me. But people around are really acting crazy .. to say it politely, "come one folks, its just another date!" I don't understand why would they be so smitten by a date that repeats one digit six times. And the thing about it being the "once in a lifetime day" is just as stupid.. isn't EVERY DAY of our lives once in a life time? Isn't every minute so? I don't intentionally notice 11:11, it happens naturally to me.. and I make the most of it by asking god for something beautiful. All I would say is, lets not make such a big deal out of it cuz it wouldn't matter to you if you don't know how it feels like seeing those numbers every single day of your life. If you see 11:11 tomorrow, make a wish. Else let it go by just like you always do.

P.S. :

Do you notice *the minute* too? have you got an interesting story about the time? Share With Me :)

Music Monday

2011-11-07T00:30:00.000+05:30

There are songs that talk about new found love, songs that talks about all the things we love about being in love and then there are songs that talk about drifting away from the one we love. The best ones are the heartbreak songs out of all.. cuz the way they sing those words, it makes you feel like each word has been written for you. They'r singing cuz you couldnt say it. They're singing cuz you can only cry about it..
Such songs are sweetly brutal.. cuz when we're down and lonely, it is the songs that can change everything!
I believe music has always had the power to make or break us.. there can be songs that'll make us feel fabulous about lovin someone and then there'll be songs that will make us feel glorious about being alone. .
One break up song is quite special to me.. cuz it's a duet.. nothing gets better than that. A Duet by two most amazing country singers.. There, it just gets more awesome.
If you're a fan of Faith Hill & Tim McGraw , you'll love this one.. however heartbreaking this song is, however sorrowful this might be.. this song is on repeat in my playlist from last 3 days even though i haven't had a break up. This song is just too sad and beautiful.. listen up.

Like We Never Loved At All.

There, walking with your friend

Laughing at the moon

I swear you looked right through me

But I'm still livin' with your goodbye

And you're just goin' on with your life

Which other Country Duets do you like?
Share with me.

The "Oh My Hair.." Days

2011-11-05T18:23:00.000+05:30

I'm just an average girl. I tie my hair up in ponytail almost every day. I braid my locks when the hair is a little messy. I wear a headband more often. I buy loads of fancy clips that only adorn the dressing table, not my hair. I brush my hair as carefully as someone from the movies tries to diffuse a time bomb. I can't stop playing with my hair the day I shampoo and I would turn into a ninja when someone else touches my hair! I hide away when mom says "come, let me braid your hair.." even though i'm 21. My mom got my hair curled when I was 6 and everyone in class called me Medusa, cuz she had a curly haired picture in our book. I've got my hair colored jet black, cuz it was brown black before.. and the two colors are a lot different, in case you didnt know. I try the many easy-5 min- hairstyles found on youtube and make my mind that "I'm going to wear my hair like that the next time I go on a date" but end up with just a headband and an untamed mane.I desperately want to get red or green highlights like Avril Lavigne but will have to wait for the day my mom is convinced. I've had some extreme hair cuts, good and bad. Some that made me look like a chicken and then some that made me look like a cute little butterfly. I don't dare to step out of the house when I oil my hair and I prefer to stay inside when my hair's still wet after the shower. Every morning, I try to make a "perfect ponytail" for at least 5 times even when i'm late for class.. but then after regular disappointment, I switch to braid. I've had the sudden urge to chop off my hair on the days of deep depression and then there have been days when I just couldn't stop looking at my hair in the mirror. I've had "Damn my hair's so thick It breaks all my combs" days to "Where the hell is all the hair on my scalp going!?" days. If counted, my good hair days are much much less than the number of national holidays in India. But, on some days, God is gracious to me.. and he gives me moments where my hair looks WOW. It surprises me and I savor the moment. I click a picture to make a memory.. and those pictures make me feel good on the awful hair days.

Here's a glimpse of my Glorious Hair Days. '90s onward...

There's a Hair Song that I listen almost every day.. and I'm gonna share so you would listen too, if you love your hair.

I just wanna be myself

And I want you to know, I am my hair.

Gaga's right.. Your Hair Can Change Your Identity.

I'm the spirit of my hair, it's all the glory that I bare.

I Spill the Beans for Dove's Love is a Two Way Street : Love Your Hair it Loves You Back contest on Indiblogger.

My Other Post : Even Hair Has Life.

Even Hair Has Life

2011-11-04T18:48:00.000+05:30

Hair care techniques are passed on to us indian girls like heritage. As soon as we start maturing, our moms make us do several things to tend the tresses, some even makes us wonder 'why the hell would I need to put that thing on my hair!?' But in front of moms, No Questions Entertained! I grew up just the same..

I had a really short crop till I was 16 thus it needed no extra attention..sometimes I wouldn't even comb my hair, it fell so perfectly in place :P But after the teen fads started making me conscious about my looks, my mom decided 'no more haircuts' till my hair would be shoulder length..This goal didn't take too long to accomplish since my hair was naturally blessed with speedy growth, unlike me. So by the time I reached college, I had lovely thick black mane that would reach just below the shoulders! That was then I decided that I needed to pay attention to it.. I started believing my hair had a life and it wouldn't be fair if I didn't 'feed' and 'nurse' it properly!

Thus began the hair care routines.. I would often spend the weekend staying at home, following my 'routine'. Missing hangout plans wouldn't ache my heart cuz oh well, I loved my hair ! It'd take me the entire sunday (probably cuz my day would begin at noon) just following the ritual but at the end of the day, the feeling my hair would give me cannot be expressed in N* amount of words.. My friends would often talk about the hair spa certain saloons in the town offered and how good they were..and I would secretly smile knowing even though those spa's would be classy and all.. but they couldn't be just AS good as my own Spa Ritual was. I learnt it from my mom after all.. There were days when my hair would break combs and clips! The Beautiful Thick Black Straight Hair Days. *sigh* Right now, my hair is in the weakest condition than it has ever been, the amount of hair on my head is lesser than half than what it used to be just 6 months ago, blame it all on Anaemia, post college change of schedule, stress and not the least, NEGLIGENCE. I haven't had the right frame of mind to give my hair a spa treatment and now its suffering.. But here, for the first time ever I'll share my ENTIRE Hair Spa Procedure that once had my lovely long tresses in their most beautiful form. It isn't expensive, but takes a few hours from your day.. the hours that’d make you feel “It was so worth it!”

The Hair SPA Procedure

1. All hair care procedures begin with moisturising and Oil Champi is the best way to go ! I use a mixture of some rich, heavy oils. The best one I recommend is Olive Oil and Bhringraj Tail ( easily available atthe ayurvedic stores). Once you mix these two oils proportionately, heat a little amount, depending on your hair length ( 3-4 tsps for shoulder length). Massage the scalp for 3 to 5 mins with lukewarm oil. Even better, ask mom or best friend to massage your scalp, its so de-stressing! Leave the oil in hair for 2-3 hours.

Separate the YOLK.

2. The mask : Rinse the oiled hair with a glass of cold milk. The logic behind this? Well, hair needs nutrition too, milk provides that very well. I won't go into science now :D before hand; take an egg n separate its yolk, you don't need to put it on your head. It is the egg yolk that stinks like crap in your head even after the wash..the egg white doesn't stink at all. After the milk rinse, mix the egg white with lemon juice and apply evenly on your hair and let it stay for 10-15 mins. They say egg and lemon are awesome conditioners..well guess what, they say it absolutely right! 10 mins later, rinse your hair with COLD WATER. Remember the cold water part VERY well. I once cooked an omlette in my head cuz I rinsed my hair with hot water. TRUE STORY. So, be careful about that!

3. Now wash your hair with your regular shampoo. When it comes to shampooing, I usually mix a little bit of shampoo with water and then put it on the hair. Think about all the chemicals that go into that liquid..mixing water dilutes the shampoo and makes you use less of it. You might have use shampoo twice since there's so much oil in it..

4. Once the hair's squeaky clean, condition. About conditioning, let the conditioner stay for 3 mins and then rinse with cold water. Towel Dry & Comb with a wide tooth comb, Apply SERUM. Style as you please.

Following this procedure makes your hair feel ALIVE. Like a young girl in the best of her youth.. like, REALLY!

Since this routine takes a lot of time, its best to be repeated twice a month.

The Herbal RINSE

My aunt who has gorgeous long black hair uses this herbal rinse twice every week. It helps keeping the hair black and shiny (as she puts it). Take half a cup of coffee beans, 250 grams amla, 200 grams shikakai, 3 tsps tea leaves, take two litres water and boil all these ingredients in it. Once the water's boiled ( you can smell the aroma of all those things in it..) Turn off the stove,cool the water and then Using a sieve ( Chhalni ) separate the leftovers (that aren't useful anymore for us) from the solution.. Store it in a bottle and rinse your hair with it before you shampoo. This is THE herbal formula for lustrous locks.

None of these has side effects unless you’re allergic to something.

Additional tips : when stepping out of the house, make it a routine to wear a scarf! The dust, pollution and sun might even cause hair problems like dandruff, itchy scalp or just greasy hair. Comb with a wide tooth comb, swear by it religiously.

Talking about MY Hair now.. As I said, I haven't had much time and mood lately to nourish my locks. I’ve been suffering Excessive Hair Loss cuz of low blood level. Such Severe hair loss, it got me in depression!! I cried every time I shampooed in October cuz the amount of hair that I had in my hands and around the drain was frightening!

Then, I started using the Dove Therapy I received, and HONESTLY, it makes my hair feel lovely! Like a sick person is given a new dose that seems to work.. Thanks to Dove, I cant keep my hands off from my tresses... the smoothness makes me wanna caress them again n again.. And the scent.. its heavenly!

Although it’ll take time to gain inner strength via medicines and a healthier diet, Dove gives me hope that there will be better days. And as someone said ( Andy in Shawshank Redemption if you might know) ..

Hope is a good thing; maybe the best of things and no good thing ever dies. I’m Hopeful about my hair being healthy and beautiful yet again! And I hope you take well care of yours while they already are.

Every Girl's Dream is to have Hair like a Disney Princess <3

I Spill the Beans for Dove's Love is a Two Way Street : Love Your Hair it Loves You Back contest on Indiblogger.

My WOW Hair Moments post gonna be up soon too, be sure you don't miss that one too!

(Cuz when talking about hair, you just can't shut ME out. )

P.S. In case you find this boring, its probably cuz this might be. No Routines are fun unless we make them. :)

The Spark

2011-10-27T16:53:00.000+05:30

I hope God keeps the spark in you alive

The spark to achieve something significant in life..

I hope you'll carry the spark where ever you may go.

Cuz someday, somewhere new

someone around you would be feeling lonely & sad.

and I hope then, you'll use the spark in your heart

to lighten up their life.

I hope your spark will be my northern star.

Happy Diwali

Style Lust

2011-10-26T00:27:00.001+05:30

Whoever said money can't buy happiness didn't know where to shop!

Everytime I go browsing a high end online store, I make a mental wishlist of the gorgeous pieces i'd like to add to my wardrobe.. regardless of the fact that i'd not be able to ACTUALLY afford those pieces in a lifetime without donating a kidney or stealing my dad's credit card !

But, come QVENDO and the dream of owning brands like Armani, Gucci & Hugo Boss seems within reach.. And why wouldn't it be, the very generous bunch of people working behind the site offer the designer pieces at almost HALF the price! You know how elating that is?! Investing those last 5K that you saved after 3 months on an Armani Jeans Dress feels like guilty pleasure..

Although, I earn NOTHING of myself, i'm shameful enough to make a list of things I'd want from the site. Some Classy & Fabulous pieces that would make adorable outfits when combine with the existing wardrobe.

Here's my Style Wish List from the QVENDO Diwali Sale Store..

The Armani Jeans Dress; Feels like Summer! But if paired up with some hot shot pumps and a chic blazer, it becomes a perfect Fall outfit. And oh, the Owl pendant adds a hint of coolness to it .

This one very well qualifies as a Date Outfit ;)

Yet another summer outfit, cute CK tank top with a floral mini, ballet flats ( lets confess, we all love em!) and an expensive handbag. All set for the day out with Girlfriends!

This one's my most favorite of the three. A White Denim paired with plaid shirt never fails to spell CASUAL in capital. Plus that CK duffle bag ( from QVENDO store too) makes you step out of the house for no good reason but to show that you're awesome like that. ;)

These are just four out of the many amazing items available on the site for everyone, man, woman and kids. I wish a miraculous multiplication of digits in my bank account so I can shop all of them :P

---------------------------------------------------

Thanks to IndiBlogger I got a membership in this shopper's haven! If you want exclusive access too then

Go Hit This Link : http://qvendo.com/vip/indianbloggers

P.S. I cant describe how much efforts it took to create those outfits in photoshop for a digitally challenged person like me but then I cant even explain how much pleasurable it is to go through all those fabulous fashion pieces out in the Google search results, picking the one that fits your outfit the best and then imagining yourself wearing it!

THIS post has been fun for me.

Written for the DISCOVER QVENDO contest on Indiblogger.

Share your Style Wish List with me.

xoxo

Music Monday

2011-10-17T23:53:00.002+05:30

Although I am a crazy music fan, identifying a musical instrument while an instrumental solo in a song is a tough task for me. I get confused with guitars specially!

But today, I heard some new tracks that were purely instrumental and I recognized as soon as I heard!

To be honest, I've always been fond of the music a piano creates. Its magical.. as beautiful and mesmerizing as the nature.

I discovered ( for myself) a piano artist who creates beautiful melodies.. Yiruma, a south korean musician who's apparently world famous for his compositions. I heard one, and it was so peaceful that I went ahead and downloaded each and every track he ever composed for the public.

You must listen this one with headphones on and eyes closed.

Yiruma - River Flows Into You

If Love had a voice of its own, it would probably sound like this.

:)
Share your favorite instrumental tracks with me!
xoxo

Of BlackBerry and Apple

2011-10-13T18:45:00.001+05:30

Three days of BlackBerry Blackout were enough to make few people really insecure about their devices. So much that they actually started to believe every crazy message that ended with * Officially released by RIM* . Honestly, if they used the tiny little thing in their head called brain , they would know that any Tom Dick & Harry can send a message and add "Official Release" at the end of it. So dear people with an IQ that's so shameless its unmentionable, Keep calm and STOP BROADCASTING any damn thing you receive. You're the one in charge of your contact list, dont be the one responsible for people like us abandoning it .

In other News, paying a late homage to the Genius who lived his life in such an inspiring way.

RIP Steve Jobs.

P.S. Those BlackBerry-iPhone jokes are ridiculous too. Lets not forget a technical error is a human fault in some way or the other!

I love my BlackBerry. Always Have, Always Will.

xoxo

Music Monday

2011-10-10T23:09:00.000+05:30

Pain is a thing you can hide from your face but cannot keep away from what your pen scribes on paper. Even more, you can't hide the pain from your voice if you are one of the singing kinds. And that is the most fascinating thing ever about Jagjit Singh.. His voice and his compositions have so much sorrow in them and he portrays them so beautifully that you can't help but shed a smiling tear and say 'how I feel the very same way..'

I have never been a fan of his.. The only ghazal I ever heard by him was 'Hosh Walon Ko Khabar Kya' from the movie Sarfarosh. It used to be one of the 'tracks I'm never gonna delete even if I don't listen them often' in my ipod. Sadly the ipod lived its term and I forgot to add it in my new playlist, never heard it again and forgot that the genre 'Ghazals' existed in the world of music. Then he did a concert in my city earlier this year and even though my dad asked me to accompany him there, I didn't go. My reason : 'ghazals are not my kinda music' ! Without any offense to such a great meastro or anyone else, I really don't think I can bear listening gazals often or for a set number of hours just at once!

But you know how something different can sound so sublime once in a while? That's how it is when it comes to Jagjit Singh for me. Today, this musical legend left the world forever and I couldn't help grieving about it.. I don't know if what he wrote were pieces exclusively talking about his emotions, but it feels like he express the aching wishes a lot of us cannot dare to verbalize.. And then, combining those magical words with soft paced music and a sweetly melancholy voice is like the best thing an artist could give to the world!

He was indeed an amazing person.. Today, I dedicate this Music Monday post to Mr Jagjit Singh. Respect. May His Soul Rest In Peace.

Here's one of the ghazals I recently heard and liked, titled Kabhi Yun Bhi Toh Ho. Talking about a full moon night, the desires he has and the chance of the beloved's arrival.. this is no less than any classic love ballad.

I especially love it when he says

"sooni har mahfil ho, koi naa mere saath ho

aur tum aao"

Being lonely isn't the best thing to be, yet he wishes he's left alone.. just in case there's a chance that she might break through.

I'm not sure if you'd like this ghazal but drop a comment if you do.
Also, suggest me few more if you're already a fan.
xoxo

Music Monday v.1

2011-10-03T20:07:00.001+05:30

Sometimes we're just too disappointed with someone we care for. Even though the reason might seem distant, the thought of quitting and being alone is not weakening. It gives us the thought of telling them "just so you know, I can be better off without you."regardless of how depressing that thought alone can be.
And at such point of life, we're more than lucky to find a song that sings what the heart wants to scream with a beautiful melody. Hey Monday sang a song that says this by taking 'Lights' as a metaphor.
This song was also on Glee and however much I love the series, they couldn't sing it as good as the original version. This song aint a classic neither it is something uber hit but the emotion captured in the original version can't be compared!

Here, one sad yet beautiful song for you.

Hey Monday - Candles

One day
You will wake up
With nothing but you’re sorries
And someday
You will get back
Everything you gave me
Blow the candles out
Looks like a solo tonight
I'm beginning to see the light

Did you like Hey Monday on Music Monday?

Share a sad song with me, it might just make me feel better.

xoxo

When I Blow The Candles..

2011-09-29T22:19:00.001+05:30

I'm turning 21 in 2 days.*yayyy*

Been awaiting this day for so long for so many reasons!

Although I don't hope to be loaded with gifts this bday, I've got a list of things that'll be on my mind when I blow the candles. And since this list is little too long to think of each thing individually, Dear God I'll just say, "fulfill my Wishlist" :D

Now instead of wasting much words, here I present the list.

P.S. All my friends, fans *blush blush* and secret admirers (if there are any) can take a cue from this list and get me the thing that suits you well as a present, please dont hesitate AT ALL. ;)

1. A Cat. Not just any cat. I want a Black Cat.

2. The Harry Potter Hardcover Boxed Set. The love for Harry shall never fade.

3. The ability to paint my own nails. I'm 21 and still handicapped when it comes to painting nails!

God, grant me the magical ability to decorate my fragile nails with the most beautiful shades and styles.

3. That Awesome Thing will be even more awesome when i'll click some awesome pictures with it!

I want THIS!

4. So this is a little list within the list of things that I NEED. Black Pumps, ✔ . Envelope Clutch, ✔ . A new chic handbag, ✔. Three Dresses, ✔. YES YES YES! *all the items in the picture below are handpicked from the web and made into a style wishlist all by myself*

5. I once held this miraculous device in my hands and since then, I've fallen in love. I Dream about the iPad.

*sigh* it was probably love at first sight..

6. Shoes. Lots & Lots of Shoes. A closet full of shoes, in every color and pattern. Pumps, Gladiators, Ballet Flats, 6 inch heel, 3 inch heel, wedges, platforms, moccasins, open toe, tie up shoes. EVERY kind!

....

That's It!

I cant afford ALL these things at once until I get another freakin' degree and get a job. Till then I can only rely on my lovable ones being generous :P

You know I'd be more than happy and grateful if I get all those things.

Don't wait long enough, Christmas list following sooon ;)

*giggles & butterflies*

xoxo

P.S. I don't care if it seems shameless to list the things that I want, I've learnt to speak my mind.

♥

Music Monday

2011-09-26T16:39:00.002+05:30

Discovering new bands that create awesome music is a bliss!

One such band I recently found out about was Cary Brothers. One of their songs featured in a tv show I watch and it was too good to not listen again. So I youtube-ed it and there among the suggestions was another beautiful track by them. As usual i gave a listen, downloaded and added in my playlist and forgot about it. I didn't realize how sweet this track was until I heard it when I wasn't feeling too good. It was one of those lonely moments and the song came up in shuffle. It instantly pepped up my mood!

Give it a listen, its a fresh AlternRock track.

Cary Brothers - Someday

Someday we will become one, find our own way
Someday will be forever
One day it could be so
You and I and nothing

Like it?

Share songs by a not so famous band with me :)

The First Choices

2011-09-24T01:17:00.001+05:30

You are always someone's first choice.

Ethan looked into her eyes as he said this and Rachel stood there stunned.. Being rejected by Dex who chose Darcy over her, she felt terrible that she wasn't chosen by her first choice but couldnt be with Ethan who had always loved her secretly..

I cried when this scene came up in the movie Something Borrowed. The line Ethan said was stuck in my head for days. I reminisced the time when I was someone's first choice.. It was someone I didn't choose to be with. Yes, I didn't choose the person who chose me above everyone else.. It somehow felt wrong then but I was too young and naïve to commit. Back in high school, I was happy enough with the temporary crushes. The idea of a real relationship was frightening to me! No wonder when (let's say) X proposed me in 10th grade, instead of being happy about it I felt terrible..I couldn't be 'with him' !

After that, like every other girl I was proposed to by guys many times but I kept on nodding a 'no' to them politely. (Rejection sounds brutal!) Then in college, I felt like I fell in love. The crazy-stupid-head-over-heels-like-an-idiot love. I was so obsessed with every little thing and the idea was so fierce in my head that I went ahead and proposed to someone for the first time. Call it fate, I was rejected by my first choice. That was the first real heartbreak caused by love.. And then, there remained no first choices. It was just second choices on both parts after that. The thrill and fascination of being someone's first choice felt like a distant dream.. I wasn't hopeless about it, I just didn't have any hope. If I say it technically, I could never be in a real love affair..it was always a lot more than crush but a little less than love..

This July, I became someone's first choice to marry! It surprised me so much that I didn't feel anything at all for days..! After the numbness faded, the excitement was insane like..and the feeling of being THE First Choice was so exquisite! It makes sense to me now..you reject someone for not being right for you, someone rejects you for not being right for them while your greatest love story is being scripted somewhere. God pairs you up with the best one for you and the one you can be best for. He has his own ways of giving you things when you don't even hope to have them..

And then in the movie, Ethan says 'you are always someone's first choice.'
I cry because I know, I AM.