Lisha's WHITE TULIP

Miscarriage-It was over before it started

2019-05-28T15:06:00.002+05:30

My 1 year old boy is a hands full baby. Extremely naughty and hyper active. Sleep is his distant friend. 24/7 is just not enough for play. I’m a full time mom and I also have help during the day to take care of my boy. In spite of that I’m exhausted every single day. Being at work would be easy and in fact have been looking out for opportunities.

I have always had elders advising me to have another baby soon, so the difficulties of upbringing my babies would pass soon and I can get back to work. But I being me have always been adamant that I will not have another baby until my little man turns 3. My reason, I don’t want my first born to be deprived of any attention because of another little one. My reasons are fair and I stuck to it until this day.

2 months after my son turned one I found out I was pregnant. This was the last thing I expected. I was petrified. Freaked out a little. And then suddenly I was excited. I felt guilty and was happy at the same time. I was going to be a mom again. Baby 2 was coming soon.

It was going to be beautiful. I don’t have to feel guilty. Its destiny maybe and that’s how things work. Pregnancy was the best phase of my life and I had an easy breezy pregnancy with my first born. I have loved every single day of those 40 weeks. And guess what! I was going to have the best phase again. My husband freaked out a little too, but was happy. The feeling of being a mom again sunk in so soon this time. I was prepared and started planning for my baby’s arrival. I had started thinking of how my baby movements would feel , how my little boy would react and how it would feel to hold a new born again and so much more. Things were just perfect. Until...

I was 6 weeks pregnant and started noticing spotting. I had it during my first pregnancy and kept a watch of my discharge. Things turned a little messy when I started bleeding. I had just negative thoughts gushing into my head, I knew something was wrong. It was midnight and we rushed to the ER. My gynecologist prescribed Progesterone injection and some tablets to sustain. She said I would be Okay the baby was gonna be OK too. We were relieved, there was hope.

The next 2 days were not great as I was sick and the bleeding had not stopped. We went back to the ER and were advised to get an early Pregnancy Scan and that’s when we realized there was no heart beat.

My heart sank. I was disappointed in myself. I tried to be strong but I did break down. The thought of my baby (though a size of a pepper bead) with no sign of life in my womb, hurt. I had my husband on my side just saying positive things and put up a strong face.

It still hurts. I was guilty. Was it because I was petrified when I found out I was pregnant, did I do something wrong. Was I not careful? I was just 6 weeks pregnant.

My doctor did explain it was quite common. A natural process where my body decides to not go forward with the pregnancy as it does not support. But I couldn’t stop feeling guilty and kept blaming myself. I wanted my baby. I was sad, angry and irritated. How could this happen to me!.

I calmed myself and thought it over. It was the chromosomes who decided to end my pregnancy, not me. I don’t have to be guilty and I don’t have to blame myself. It’s over. I need to get over it and move on. I need to take care of myself so I can have another baby. I had to let it go.

I have no clue when I grew to be a mother. It just happens, the feelings you have for your baby is something we just cannot explain. The strength we have is unbelievable. To all the mothers who have had a miscarriage, it’s OK. Do not blame yourself. Instead take care and prepare your body for another healthy pregnancy. We do not deserve to be blamed, by us or by anybody else.

I may not completely get over this. I lost of tiny part of me. But it’s ok. I have a bigger better part of me, right here. Running around me and making me run errands.

”You will know one day when you become a mother yourself” Now, maybe I understand what this means. Losing a baby is never easy not even when it’s over before it started.

Traditional Kodava Food: The warrior race

2019-05-25T09:52:00.001+05:30

The Kodavas, a small race of tribes who inherit rich culture and tradition, belong to the district called Kodagu or Coorg of South India. Coorg is a beautiful hill station, surrounded by greenery in the Western Ghats of south India, also known as the “Scotland of India”. The Coffee plantation and paddy fields gives us an even better picturesque of Coorg.

Manicured Coffee Plantation

The Kodava’s are warm and hospitable folks. They are known as warriors and the only community in India that’s allowed to carry guns without permits. They are as much known for their love for good food.

Like the people, they also have a unique cuisine. Nooputtu (steamed rice noodles), Paputtu (steamed rice cake with grated coconut), Kadambuttu (steamed rice balls), Akki Otti (rice flat bread), Pandhi Curry (Pork Curry), Koli Curry (Chicken Curry), Kembu Curry (Kembu is a species of edible colocasia and belongs to the family of ALOCASIA MACRORRHIZA. The fresh shoots of Kembu are cooked to make a curry), Kumme Curry( wild mushrooms), Baimbale Curry(bamboo shoots), Kumbala curry(Pumpkin Curry),Chekke Curry( raw jackfruit curry) Kaade Mange curry( wild mango curry), Koile Meene Curry( Tiny Fish curry)and many more wild and locally available greens and vegetables. Koovaleputtu (savoury item made from ripe jackfruit, steamed in banana leaves) is among the favorites.

The best part, these delicacies are always eaten with their favorite combinations. For example Kadambuttu & Pandhi curry Otti & Kumme Curry / Kembu Curry, Nooputtu & koli Curry etc…

Nooputtu & Koli Curry

Kadambuttu & Pandhi Curry

Most food cooked by the Kodavas is steamed as it is healthy and requires no use of oil. Rice is a staple and is grown locally; hence you see most food made with steamed rice. The food that Kodavas eat is grown by them or is the ones that are naturally available. The pattern of food eaten by the Kodavas is mostly to suit the cold climate and the availability in the region. Season dictates what the Kodavas eat. Bamboo shoots are out in the rainy season and that’s when we get fresh shoots which are chopped and soaked in water for 2 days before it is cooked. Mushroom sprout out after the first rains with thunder storms. Wild Mangos are plucked during May, the peak mango season and is also preserved in barrels of salt water for the rest of the year.

Apart from this, every Kodava is a coffee lover and freshly brewed filter coffee is a staple in every household. Black coffee with jaggery is also loved and has been a favorite traditionally. Coffee is widely grown in Coorg and is a major source of income and that proves their love for Coffee.

Kachampuli, black vinegar made from the kokum fruit is used to cook Pork curry and other non vegetarian delicacies as a substitute for Vinegar or Lime. Kachampuli and green chilies are used as it cuts fat in the body.

Kodavas are also known to make their own wine at home, be it rice, gooseberry, grapes or chikku. Most Kodavas make the best wine.

Ancient Kodava men went hunting for wild Boars. The meat would be sun dried and stored for the rest of the year. Wanke Pandi yarchi(dried pork meat) is one of the most savored dish among the Coorgs. Serve it with a glass of good wine or Whisky, and you wouldn’t see a happier face. Coorg men and women enjoy their drink as much as their food.

Born to a Kodava family, I couldn’t be more proud. One of the best cuisines’s; today, not just the Kodavas, but their food as well is popular.

Yercaud: Tamil Nadu

2019-05-24T12:43:00.003+05:30

After months of toiling we desperately needed a getaway. I looked for places close to Bangalore and found Yercaud is just about 5 hours drive. A hill station with Coffee & spice plantation and slight chilly climate is exactly what I was looking for to get away from this scorching Bangalore heat.
Yercaud is a beautiful hill station in Salem District of Tamilnadu state in South India. It is about an hour drive uphill from Salem City .The Drive up hill through the hairpin bends was quite dry as it was summer and the temperature was over 35 degree Celsius. But, surprisingly as we reached the top we were surrounded with greenery and there was a sudden dip in the temperature.
We stayed at the Sterling Resorts, which is on the western slope of the Shevaroy hills and the property serves you with the best view of greenery and the hairpin bends. As you watch the breathtaking view of the sun set, you feel the cool breeze hit on your face and that’s exactly what you need. You just cannot get enough of the cozy weather. We were glad we did not need a fan or Air conditioner. All we did was spend some quality time and enjoyed the weather. The resort served some delicious food too.
Yercaud Lake is beautiful, calm and clean and a nice place to spend some time. There are a couple of view points around the town and they offer great views too.
Just the right place for a weekend romantic getaway and the right climate to escape from the summer heat. We were pretty pleased we experienced Yercaud.

Sun Set

Sterling Resorts

The View

View

Sunrise shadow

Now is the time…Maybe!!

2019-05-08T09:56:00.002+05:30

Years have passed! I have been married for over 5 years, mother of a baby boy, went on a couple of vacations, changed jobs, moved cities and went through a lot of drama in life.

These ups and downs of life are what that teaches us to be better people. In fact, one thing I have learnt is to stop worrying and let go off people who don’t value you, easily said than done. But if practiced gives us a lot of peace of mind.

About 3 years back we moved to Bangalore. That was the time we were just settling down with our lives in Mysore .My job, though I didn’t like it much, was going well. My husband wasn’t very happy with his and we took a call to move to Bangalore and look for better career opportunities.

This was new for both of us. Bangalore was new, He had just landed in a job and I did not have one. We moved in to an extra room in one of the rented apartments of his uncles. We just had started looking for a house of our own. I stayed there for about 15 days; but those 15 days a lot changed in my life. From living in a 3BHK duplex to a 1 room, having a decent job to not being employed and struggling to find a job , having the facilities to cook and eat whatever I want to being dependent on a small restaurant and most of all worried about being able to manage our finances for the next couple of months. The Rent, the deposit, etc etc..

It wasn’t long, but I was scared every minute. I was scared if we would find a decent house, a job for me and so many things going on in my mind. But, very soon within those 15 days, I landed a good job, we found a beautiful home and moved in and our life just sprang back to normal; before we realized…

It was then I realized that destiny has its own plan. Worrying doesn’t help. And a feeling of how people manage their struggles sunk in a little. And most of all, the 15 days bought me closer to my husband.

When I think back now, it wasn’t real struggle…But being in that moment of worry it did feel like and having experienced that changed a lot of things for me. I have always believed that it’s the unexpected that changes our lives, Trust me, It so does!...So if we want to do something and we feel , now is the time…then so be it…

First sunset from my home in Bangalore

Time: never waits

2015-06-13T14:31:00.002+05:30

We all are in the fast phased life, where we don’t even realize time has flown by. Sometimes I just stop and think back of all the times I have enjoyed and cherished and then I think; where are those days gone!!… What am I doing to myself now?

I have been married for almost two years now.

For a lot of reasons I chose to get back into the fast phased life again though I had an option to relax and enjoy being lazy, read as many books as possible, bake a lot and so on...But, I wanted to get back to working. I like it this way, and of course it’s costing me big time.

I really don’t get time for myself, leave alone reading a book… I already feel I’m missing so much in life …I almost forgot my Dad’s birthday this year. When my sister reminded me I pretended like I remembered…I never used to forget birthdays… and now I’m like, it’s ok…let it be…I just forgot a Birthday!

Last night I was talking to my husband and suddenly realized that, it’s been really long since I laughed till my stomach aches … And guess what; I’m craving for that,…Oh Yes!...there was a time I hated to laugh so much, I was embarrassed all the time while I went all teary while I laughed…And now I want it…

As I write this I can think of so many other things I’m missed because of my fast phased life... the list will never end

I couldn’t even spend some good time with friends when they were in town!

Priorities have changed… Friends can wait! ... That’s the scene today.

And yes. We are only waiting for the next wedding to happen to meet up.

So what after the last wedding? We never meet? I don’t know about that;

Whatever it is, we all can wait…but time will never do so. Cribbing doesn’t help.

I think its high time we stop; think about what we want; do what we want; spend money like millionaires; dance away to glory; read books; eat as much without being weight conscious; get a manicure; color your hair (Who cares if you look like a peacock); plan a holiday… And just laugh out loud… till your stomach aches and tears roll down and whatever…..

And along with all that you love to do, hug your loved one so tight every day, like it’s your last time… Someday, only thinking of it will put a smile on your face

I'm back...In a B-School!!!!!:):):)

2014-12-04T18:03:00.000+05:30

It’s been over a year since I put up my last blog.(not that I’m great with it)..I wanted to write ever since, just that I wasn’t in a very good space of mind. Now that I’m back in mood to write, I have a job and a computer in front of me full time, Its high time I get back into blogging…and today I’m in a very good mood to write…Aanndd I have a lot to catch up.:)..Lots to write down about my past one year and a lot more of what’s happening right now:D

It’s been two months since I have taken up my new job at a B-School. Oh Yes!!.. I’m back in school. It feel good and reminds me so much about my college days .My first few days felt like my first few days back in college. Was a little nervous in the beginning when I saw students:p, almost wanted to hide my face...Shy!. Always felt like I was the fresher in college than an employee here. Now that I’m 2 months old here, I have made a few student friends, getting to know about the college and people here and most important of all we are working on organizing a college fest.

Yeah! A lot more interested in organizing a fest here than I was in college. I was least interested in participating in fests at college now I want to do it here. Maybe I just want to be a part of the missed out fun or maybe I’m having fun doing the job..Whatever it is, its new and its fun…Will keep posting more on this ..Happy to be blogging again JJJ

Last few days at work!

2013-10-22T15:08:00.001+05:30

It’s been Over 2 years since I’m working with my present employer. And now it’s my last few days at work. It’s my farewell at office today and I hear my friends sitting across the cubical planning out stuff. I’m happy and sad at the same time. I know I’m gonna miss working here and I’m surely gonna miss my friends here.

The past 2 years has been so wonderful for me .I couldn’t ask for more from my first Job. This was a job of my Dreams. But neither did I dream of visiting foundries and learning stuff what I missed out in college nor did I dream I would be travelling across the globe. It’s been a journey of learning, making new friends, travelling across the world, experiencing luxury and having loads of fun.

I have always loved my job and I always feel lucky I worked here...In fact I was always proud of so many things about my employer. And with a bunch of amazing friends to work with I had no reason to crib what so ever.

I’m busy trying to convince myself that ‘All good things come to an end” and I have something better to look forward to. Life changes for sure, new people come in to our lives and we leave behind a few peopleJ. But a few people and some memories are always very close to you. So will my first job, friends I made here and my memories from my work place.

I will miss working here in Honeywell. I’m glad I got be a part of it.

Europe Memories :)

2013-10-11T11:42:00.000+05:30

I desperately waited for my chance to visit Europe and when I did I was mesmerized. I’m loaded with memories. With time I might just forget a few of them but some memories and a few People I met will always remain afresh in my heart.

Quite a few people I met in Europe asked me what the weirdest thing about Europe was?...My answer always was ‘nothing is really weird’…Now I do have something to say, Which I have been thinking almost every day from the time I came back.

I haven’t found anything weird, but there are a lot of things which will never go of my mind and which I will cherish all my life.

Each time I think of my tour what first comes to my mind was my Landing in Pairs .It couldn’t have been better. I can still see the picture perfect shade of green carpet like farms. It makes me smile and feel amazing.

When my Colleague Zoltan Virag offered to drive me all over Slovania, Went out of the schedule and took me shopping it made me feel happy.

When my colleagues Arthur and Zoltan crossed the borders of Slovenia only to make sure I had a glimpse of Italy and took me to Sistiana, happiness flushed in me. Driving down the cliffs to see that blue ocean in Sistiana was a treat to my eyes. It was one of the moments in my life where I couldn’t stop smiling and couldn’t stop admiring the ocean. It was one of the moments where I wanted to jump, scream and laugh all together. I was overwhelmed. It was what I never dreamt off.

When Strangers offered to click my photograph while I struggled with my camera for a self photography I would literally beam.

When I was suggested to eat the local cuisine and I was told it was the best, I felt lucky and savored it.

When my Colleague Sabor offered to walk me around the town of strakoniche,Czech Republic I felt like he read my mind. I wanted to do just that. I was smilingJJ(it makes me smile even nowJ).

When my friend Annabella invited me for a picnic with her friends at the Eiffel, I happily said yes, without thinking for another second...I knew this was going to be once in a life time. I was introduced not just to her lovely friends but also to some lovely French Wine and Some Yummy French food. Every effort they took to make me feel one of them and when they spoke in English (and not French) to make sure I was involved in their conversation made me smile again. This was one of the sweetest gestures.

When Annabella offered to climb the Eiffel at midnight even after a very long day and with those sleepy droopy eyes, I felt guilty that I was asking for too much. I did feel lucky too, not everyone gets to see the midnight beauty of Paris.

When the cab driver in Paris dropped me around the corner of the hotel and said he would wait until I get into the hotel lobby just to make sure I was safe, all my fear was gone. A stranger who was concerned about my safety was a blessing in disguise. I never ever felt a genuine care of a stranger before. For a moment I just stood and smiled at him. This was one of those kindest gestures. I might never meet him again but the smile on his face as he waved me back from a distance as I entered the hotel is like a captured picture in my mind which will never be erased.

When a stranger offered to guide me just looking at my confused look made me breathe a sigh of relief. I feel guilty I doubted him first but that was a “scared me” struggling for directions in a whole new world. Again a blessing in disguise.

I have all of this fresh in my mind. I have been thanking all of them in my mind each time I think of my experience.

These people made me feel blessed, tried not to make me feel lonely and gave me so many reasons to cherish my Europe tour. All I can do is thank them for all my Europe memories and never forget themJJ.

My Time Line !!Tick Tick!!...:-0

2013-10-08T17:15:00.000+05:30

Since I’m moving out of Pune in a month’s time I resigned from my job after I got back from home in September. Though I’m still serving my notice period I feel like I have no responsibility over anything at work even though things are the same and my work got a little hectic than usual.

All I can think of is ‘when will I get back home?’ and ‘when will I stop working!’...My mind is literally blank and now I’m counting days for my BIG day…I’m all excited, but being a control freak I try not to show it out too much. There is too much of anxiety and sometimes I do freak out.

The fact that I’m quitting my job and moving back to Coorg makes me feel like my last day at work is my last day of this part of “My world”. Actually it is true!!! The minute I leave Pune It’s all gonna be different for me. I feel I’m falling short of days, mostly short of weekends. And having this in mind I’m in a rush to do everything. I wanna visit places, meet friends, eat in new restaurants, go shopping and everything possible. Yes!!...I realized I have ended up spending hell lot of money, and put on oodles of weight. It bothers me at times, but my “one month” timeline comes into picture and I feel it’s ok to be spending too much/over eating for once!!...And I go back to my spending and hogging mood. I don’t understand why I fell I’m never gonna get all of this ever.

I’m not very sure if this is normal; I’m getting married to no stranger. I have waited all my life to get married and now when its happening it feels crazy at times. One moment I’m very happy suddenly I’m freaking out. I’m not sure if its nervousness or the Pre Marriage Syndromes!!! :-p…What do you call this!!!…Does this happen to every bride to be!...

Whatever it is, I feel happy about the excitement, and I’m even happier as the day is getting closer…(And a little weird about the freaking out):-0

To Friends:)

2013-10-03T16:05:00.000+05:30

I was the happiest of people during the last few days of my engineering college, it’s not just because the 4 years of engineering came to an end, but also because, like I always mention I was out with a good bunch of friends… Having spent amazing time with them, and carry with me some lovely memories, I couldn’t be happier.

The past 4 years haven’t been very different too…Though all of us in different cities, we still managed to have a few maddest of times, and Yes added lot more memories…We are all just a phone call away.

Life’s not gonna be the same forever you see…We still are gonna be a phone call away...With all of us married/to be married, things change. It is bound to happen. We are moving places and a few out of country and then managing work, home, family, additional responsibilities, etc etc. We hardly have time to spare for ourselves, and obviously Friends need to be side lined a little...Though just a phone call away maybe at times it might get impossible to keep in touch……Deep inside each one of us would be sulking about this, wishing we had more of “Me time” and more of the maddest times with friends…But we have just the memories left with us to catch up with…

When I fell low, or I’m lonely or I’m very excited I always think of calling up my friends, sometimes one of them and sometimes all in a row….This works for me;It makes me feel better and I’m smiling at the end of the conversation.

Now that I really notice things changing, I get a little worried. No matter how much the change happens, I would still want to call up friends for All the cribbing and other stupid silly reasons any time I want, I would still want all of us to plan for a vacation, would still want all of us to go shopping and act mad on the street, Would still want to walk into your houses at any point of time and I would always want to meet up as often as possible

And Just for you all to know, I’m still gonna plan vacations, pick up all your calls no matter how busy I’m and would be the happiest when you all walk in home JJJJ

Happiest Vacation Ever!!!!!

2013-09-11T17:13:00.000+05:30

I feel like it’s been ages since I have opened my Blog. It’s been long for sure. I was on vacation and now back to Pune. With so much happening around I dint really feel like switching on my computer. I did have a lot in mind which I wanted to write, but dint have the time to spare for my blogging. I have to say this was my happiest vacation ever and has put a never ending smile on my face.:-D

My vacation started off with my very long weekend in Bangalore. Being in Bangalore never left better and meeting friends as always was the best. I really really am the happiest when I’m around with my besties. Its like”want to jump and scream” kind of happiness. This time was no different compared to our usual college days, we were cribbing, teasing each other, gossips, blah blah blah and we had “NEWS” as well. Rachna announces her engagement in the middle of the crowded shopping street. And for a few minutes we acted like there was no one else around us, hugging each other, talking at the top of our voice, shooting questions at her( And yeah!,..The very obvious answer we got from her was “I don’t know”), me making a fuss over her engagement dates (how silly!!) and all of us genuinely feeling happy for her:-D…Congratulations on your Engagement rach, we are sooper happy for you.

Since the wedding day is just a few months away I finish off my trousseau shopping in Kanchipuram. I was super excited ,but Trust me buying sarees in a lot is so not easy.

I finally arrive at coorg for the most awaited part of my vacation, my engagement. Days fly, 8 years did, so did the next few daysJJ…It felt like just another day, there was no different feeing until I had the ring in my finger. Looking at it, Put up a everlasting smile on my face...I’m engaged to the love of my life. I was happy then and I’m happy now. A glance at my ring puts a smile on my face even now (maybe sounds a little silly, but that’s how it is!!! ) .

Europe: Epinal to Paris (Last three days)

2013-08-05T11:18:00.000+05:30

It was Friday. I had already made plans for the evening at Paris. After a pretty good day at work I leave to Paris from Epinal. As I reach the Hotel in Paris I see Annabella waiting for me at the receptionJ…

I quickly dump my luggage and off we go for our evening plan. We were going to have a picnic at the Eiffel with a few friends of AnnaJ… Anna says it’s the favorite Picnic spot for the Parisians in summer. It definitely looked like their favorite spot. It was crowded. I loved to see the crowd.

It was a nice Picnic. A lot of chatting with a lot of French food and some French wine. It was a perfect evening for the picnic and the crowd there proved how much Parisians loved a picnic at the Eiffel. What I loved was the sparkling Eiffel. As the Clock strikes 10 P.M Eiffel is lit with Sparkling lights and it’s beautiful. It continues to sparkle after every one hour. It’s amazing. I wouldn’t have witnessed this if it was not for the Picnic plans. Anna Thanks for this. I wanted to go up to the Eiffel and Anna offers to join me. Since the elevator was down we had to climb up the stairs. Yes!! I was climbing the Eiffel only to reach the second floor at mid night. Paris looks its best from the top. Lit up Bright and colorful. I was on top of the Eiffel and very excited. JJ A Dream come true for me JJJ…

I was alone the next day. It was a bright sunny day. Weather was at its best. Had a lot of site seeing to do. Was hoping I could do some Shopping too. I Start off early with my maps; pick up some yummy pastries from the street and I was going to the Eiffel again. I reach the other end of the Eiffel, did a lot of Photography take a boat ride along the river from the Eiffel and then ride in the metro to a few places, walked along the streets and did quite a lot of shopping too. My day just flew. Thankfully I could see all the places I had in my list.

Paris does mesmerize you. The Crowded streets, the beautiful souvenir shops, Paintings on the street, the monuments, the food, the best of pastries, the people around felt so new .And all the amazing memories and experience Paris gave me was what I had never expected.

Paris has its own charm, but it reminds you a lot of places back home. It made me feel India is beautiful too; Like ParisJJJ

All I could think when told about Paris was the Eiffel. But now with all the memories it’s not just the Eiffel that I know. I’m glad I know so much more of ParisJJJ

It was the end of my euro trip. I was happy. When you know you are going to be with your own people in a few hours time, you feel even better.

the picnic

Europe: Vienna to Epinal (Day 11 and 12)

2013-07-26T11:21:00.002+05:30

It was my last few days in Europe. I was going to France. My excitement was all about going to Paris. I leave to the airport at about 5A.M from my hotel in Vienna. This was my worst travel plan. I was on the plane or travelling by train the whole day. Running around with my luggage Changing airports in Paris and then train stations in Strasbourg and Nancy. All I wanted to make sure I don’t miss my flight or the train. I couldn’t afford to wait more…I was exhausted.

I finally manage to reach Epinal at 7 in the evening only to find empty streets. All I knew was my Hotel was a 5 minutes’ walk from the train station. Not knowing which direction I walk and with just a few people around I go to almost every person asking for directions only to realize none of them are from Epinal and a few just nodding their heads to whatever I asked. It was irritating, my back ached and I longed for some food and a bed. And more over I wanted to see people, I wanted to see a crowded street. I just start walking not even having the strength to drag my luggage, I found a lady who told me the direction and in the next 5 minutes I was in the hotel. What a relief!!!...French food never tasted better and crawling into bed never felt so good.

The next day I was going to Clerval and Santhose for work. These are two small twin villages in France between the mountains. The people here are so warm and welcoming. I haven’t seen more polite people all my life. The landscape looks like in the posters. Mountains, Crystal clear River flowing down, a bridge full of flowers on its railings connecting the village. As the cool breeze hit my face, every person walking on the street greets me even after knowing I’m a total stranger. This place is a total different world. Totally disconnected from the rest of the world. It’s a happy world there. You see happy faces everywhere. Nothing looked fake, nothing looked strange, and nothing looked bad. I wanted to stand and stare at all of this and I was happy here. The restaurant looked like your dining room at home with your people sitting around and talking to you. I haven’t seen a happier world. I was left wondering why we don’t live like this. I was left with a smile on my face and I was laughing at their stupid jokes. They took every effort to make me feel happy. I haven’t felt happier being with strangers who dint feel like strangers.

Driving back home I still had smile on my face. A happy day at Work. I was Feeling different. I was happy.

Europe: Strakonice,Czech Republic (Day 9 and day 10)

2013-07-24T14:09:00.000+05:30

It was my second week in Europe. Time just flies. I was ready early in the morning waiting for my colleague Gabor at the hotel in Vienna. We were going to Strakonice in Czech Republic. It was a long drive on the country side roads between the fields ready to be harvested. The landscape was beautiful reminding me of the fields back in India. We reach Czech by noon, spend a little time at a super market buying some food, eat in the car and then go to work.

It was a short day at work too. We were at the hotel early and plan up to tour the city. Strakonice is quite a small industrial city of Czech Republic, on the banks of the river Otava. It’s also famous for its locally brewed beer which the people there love. It is so scarcely populated. You see a lot of Chinese living there too and of course quite a lot of Chinese restaurants in every corner of the street. We explore the city by walking around.

The down town looked lovely with the pink pitonia flowers all over. We hardly see people in the street; the market place is also a very small area. We spotted a castle on the other side of the river. The river bank has a small park and that seemed like the favorite spot of the people there. It was a perfect place to spend an evening. They were people getting a sun bath, men swimming in the river, kids cycling around, moms walking around with their babies, ladies catching up for a chat and me enjoying all of it JJ…You know it always feels good to see happy people around you, For a moment I stood staring all of it. All you could hear was happy cheerful people, the fresh breeze and the river flowing smoothly .I had my colleague with me, I still felt lonely ,but my thoughts still went back home, I would love to sit in a place like that and spend an evening with loved ones. That place looked all happyJ.

Crossed the river and went into the castle. It’s a beautiful place too. This place has too many pubs around. We were counting pubs there. And I heard people of Czech love drinking beer. The local cuisine is delicious.

The next day was a total work day for me. We drove back to Vienna that evening since I had a flight to France the next day.

Though my stay in Czech was short, Strakonice gave me the nicest feel good memories.

Landscape on the country side roads

pitonia

the river side

Inside the Castle

****************************************************************************

Europe: Vienna (Day 8)

2013-07-19T18:38:00.001+05:30

My legs still hurt as I wake up in the morning. But I wasn’t going to miss the site seeing because of that. Like the Previous day I started off with my maps to the metro. By now I was quite familiar with the names and metro stations and did not need help to go about.

My first destination was the famous Schönbrunn Palace. This place is every bit of luxury. You really have to envy the people who lived here. It has a well maintained beautiful Garden. Did a lot of Photography here. (Except for the entry tickets at the palaces and museums everything pretty much impressed me in Vienna).

Europe’s best zoo is in Vienna and right besides the Schönbrunn Palace. I kept thinking if I had to enter the zoo or no; finally decided to go in there:-D. It was a good experience. Not very different from the Zoo I visited earlier, but I must say it’s really well maintained.

I then go to the Belvedere Palace which is again beautiful, have lunch at the famous Turkish food joint, visit Vienna´s Prater with Giant Ferris Wheel, the Uno city and the Donautrum park. I had covered almost every street in Vienna with my two days of sightseeing.

Vienna is every bit amazing and beautiful. Given a chance don’t miss to visit Vienna. If you have a choice ,do visit.

A few pictures from my Vienna tour.

at the museum

schonbrunn palace

interiors

Europe: Back in Vienna (Day 7)

2013-07-19T17:33:00.002+05:30

I have been waiting for this weekend from days. On the D ‘day I felt lonely, wished I could have someone around. None of these feelings was going to help and bring someone to see me. L…I decide to start early for my Vienna tour. I wasn’t going to take a bus tour, I had decided I would do it on my own with a few maps in hand, walking around the streets and taking the metro.

I had done a little bit of homework on the places to visit in Vienna. So I did have faint idea on a few things. With the previous weekend’s street exploring I had spotted the nearest metro station. A little discussion with the hotel receptionist I got to know where to go and how to use the metro etc.

I started off for my adventure. I took the Metro and reached the center. I was a little early, the streets were almost empty, and with some help I reach the main street. I landed right at the main “Mariahilfer Straße” shopping street in Vienna. Restaurants on one side of the foot path and shopping streets with “SALE” boards on the other side. I love streets like this. How tempting!!! I couldn’t resist shopping; I knew it’s going to be bad for my pocket. Spending in Euro’s is scary; I had to ignore the thoughts if had had to do my bit of shopping. Decided not to worry until I get to pay the credit card bills. Did a bit of shopping, some self photography and I was at the end street near the most famous MuseumQuartier.

Vienna's Kunsthistorisches Museum is absolutely incredible. The architecture the furniture, the paintings and every bit of this place is awesome. Since it was a Saturday I got to witness the band which plays in the Opera house. The music was awesome too. Walked down the streets to see the parliament house the Stephansdom church, Volksgarten and a few more places in my list and took the metro to the Nasch Market.

Nasch market is a famous open street market in Vienna which sells amazing sea food. As I reached the metro close to Nasch market I asked a few people for direction and landed in the wrong place. This happened quite a lot of times for me in Vienna. I was always given the wrong directions. But a few wrong directions did good to me as well. I landed in places with was worth going and was not in my listJJ and one of it was the Church of St. Charles Borromeo. This place so calm and has a beautiful fountain in front.

Finally I decide to ask quite a few people and go with the most common direction. After a lot of walking I finally reached the Market. It was worth every bit of walking.

Crowded street with variety of shops and some amazing food. I stopped at a few places only to admire the stuff around. Couldn’t resist myself for long. Grabbed a piece of salmon with some shrimps for lunch and quickly explore the place.

It was past noon and had a bit of shopping to do. So I go back to Mariahilfer Straße shopping street and continued with my unfinished shopping. I couldn’t do much though. But it wasn’t bad either. I could at least manage to pick up a few stuff in my list.

End of the day my legs felt dead. It was too much of walking for me and I so badly wanted to get back to the hotel.

Had a lot of places to visit for the next days as well.

Europe: Slovenia (Day 4 to Day 6)

2013-07-19T16:24:00.000+05:30

Drove down from Maribor to Vuzenica for work. The 3 hrs drive went just like that. My Journey felt like I saw in the movies. It was a Drive along the Valley of Drava: the Steep Mountains, the crystal clear river and the country side roads. The nature is breath taking. Beautiful flowers all around and the farming on one side.

Vuzenica is located just at the banks of River Drava. With just very few people living there. It’s a small place indeed .The local food is good too. The people there are very warm and friendly.It couldn’t get better for me in Vuzinica. Of course I did not get to stay there for long. We had our evening planned in a small place called Sezana close to Senozece where we had our work the next day. We drove along the Drava again.

Sezana is a small place again situated in the border of Slovania and Italy. I couldn’t go out as we were really exhausted after the long day but I was promised by my colleagues that we would go to Italy the next evening.

After work the next day we drive to Sistiana in Itay. It was a half an hour drive and we were at the beach in Sistiana, Italy.

I was thrilled. This was not in my plan. And I have landed in Italy.Of course its not one of the noted places, but it has one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. We had to drive down to cliff to reach the beach.I love beaches, and this one was beautiful and different. It was a no sand beach with huge rock mountains around. My evening was with amazing Italian food at the beach side with an amazing view. It was super awesomeJJ

The next day was at Buzet and Roc in Croatia. Crossing the border to Croatia was a bid of a mess. Had to be really quick with my work as well as we had last minute change of plans to leave to Vienna the same day.

It was Friday already and I landed at my hotel in Vienna.

The weekend was going to be in Vienna; All by myself.

Beach in sistiana,Italy

Europe Day 2 & 3: Vienna to Maribor,Slovania

2013-07-10T02:04:00.000+05:30

At Vienna

View From My Hotel In Vienna

way to Maribor

At Maribor

MAribor

Had an early start at Vienna, with good breakfast and a leisure walk at the hotel park. I was waiting for my Colleague to join me so we could drive to Maribor.

My colleagues Zoltan from Hungary and Arthur from France arrive and we drive down to Maribor. Drive to Maribor was absolutely beautiful. Europe country side was at its best. The green farms and the grazing cows were picture perfect.

Reached Maribor, Finished work as scheduled and moved to our Hotel. We planned to go around the City Center at dinner time. The good Part is it doesn’t get dark, so we had the whole evening all for our self. We hit the old city of Maribor and walked around every possible street. Maribor is a very small place; all you need is half a day to finish looking around the city. It’s beautiful.

I had the next day as well in Maribor to explore. Tried out the local Slovenian cuisine and some Mexican with a European touch. I’m living on loads of Cheese and Cream. Wouldn’t be surprised if I get back home with a few extra kilos .the food here is a treat to my taste buds. The Chocolate Soufflé and the Cherry ice cream is the yummiest of desserts I have ever had. Love it!!...Loving Europe…Can’t wait for more of it..Missing People back home too.

Europe Day 1: Mumbai to Vienna:)

2013-07-08T16:25:00.001+05:30

Took off from Mumbai to Paris as scheduled and my Flight was smooth...Landing in Paris was my most amazing landing so far. Paris looks beautiful from above. It looks like a carpet with shades of green with building blocks placed in a row. I’m here in Europe at a perfect time. Weather is awesome; slightly chill, sunny and bright. Everything looked just perfect.

Took a transit to Austria and reached as scheduled. I have never been on a plane for this long and never ever did I feel a jet lag this bad. I was exhausted and starving. Had a good lunch at the Hotel and crashed into bed .Had planned to go on a city tour, but that did not happen as I was in no shape for that.

Spent the evening exploring the neighboring streets, eating street food, at the hotel garden (it is amazing) and for the first time witnessed sunset at 9.P.M…All of this all alone. Frankly I was lonely, no people on the streets and no one with me. I started missing everyone, wished someone was with me.

Hoping for a good week at work and I’m glad I will have people join me at work. Waiting for more of Vienna JJ

Will post a few pictures soon.

Travel Time:)

2013-07-05T15:35:00.001+05:30

Its travel time for me. Europe it is, for a good 2 weeks timeJJ. My most awaited trip and it’s surely gonna be the most interesting one. My scheduled is jam packed yes, but I do have some time during weekends to explore places.

I’m so full of mixed feeling. Sometimes I’m so happy thinking of it and get very excited and the next moment I feel a little low thinking I’m gonna be alone. I’m not really in mood for the “Me time” you see. Anyways, that’s not really gonna stop me from all the fun for sure. One thing I can’t stop thinking of is the food; I’m very excited about trying the European cuisineJJ

Fingers crossed and hoping for the best time of my life. This is new and different and of course a lot of things are gonna be different for me when I’m backJJ Wish me luck againJ

Ovarian Cyst rupture...Another Alarm for Women!!

2013-07-01T17:02:00.001+05:30

A bit of havoc happened during my recent visit to Coorg. My cousin gets a stomach cramp and collapses. She is moved into the hospital and doctors recommend her to go in for surgery immediately…She had an ovarian cyst rupture!!...

It took us to surprise. With no prior issues regarding ovaries or menstrual cycle, out of the blue she has a cyst rupture. My cousin was lucky she got the right symptoms on time and she got out of it with the surgery.

But it’s not the same always. Not always a cyst rupture shows symptoms. If a cyst rupture is neglected or not detected on time it leads to cancer. I did a little bit of research on it,and found a few things which should be taken care of by women.

Here it goes:

Ovarian Cysts are fluid-filled sacs which are similar to blisters. Ovarian cysts are common among women during their reproductive years and are growths that form on the two almond sized organs on each side of the uterus. Most types of ovarian cysts are harmless and go away without any treatment otherwise one must be aware of How to Cure Ovarian Cysts Naturally.

Ovarian cysts are very common, particularly in women between the ages of 30 and 60. They may be single or multiple, and can occur in one or both ovaries. Most are benign (non-cancerous), but approximately 15 percent are malignant (cancerous).

The normal function of the ovaries is to produce an egg each month. During the process of ovulation, a cyst-like structure called a follicle is formed inside the ovary. The mature follicle ruptures when an egg is released during ovulation. The corpus leteum forms from the empty follicle and if pregnancy does not occur, the corpus leteum dissolves. Sometimes this process does not conclude appropriately causing the most common type of ovarian cyst -- functional ovarian cysts.

The following are possible risk factors for developing Ovarian Cysts:

1. History of previous ovarian cysts

2. Irregular menstrual cycles

3. Increased upper body fat distribution

4. Early menstruation (11 years or younger)

5. Infertility

6. Hypothyroidism or hormonal imbalance

7. Tamoxifen therapy for breast cancer

If you have an Ovarian Cyst, Symptoms are:

· Menstrual irregularities.

· Pelvic pain- a constant or intermittent dull ache that may radiate to your lower back and thighs. Pelvic pain shortly before your period begins or just before it ends. Pelvic pain during intercourse

· Nausea, vomiting or breast tenderness similar to that experienced during pregnancy

· Fullness or heaviness in abdomen.

· Pressure on bladder - difficulty emptying your bladder completely.

· Sudden, severe abdominal or pelvic pain

· Pain accompanied by fever or vomiting

· painful sex

· weight gain.

Ayurvedic cures for Ovarian Cysts: Safe Remedies:

Natural herbs such as Kachnaar Guggul, Pradrantak Churna and Chandraprabha Vati prove to be effective ayurvedic remedies for ovarian cyst as they not only balance the hormones but also alleviate pain and regulate irregular menstruation.
Another ayurvedic home remedy for ovarian cyst is red clover that cures hormonal imbalance and maintains the right equilibrium between estrogen and testosterone hormones in women.
Chaste berry, dandelion and black cohosh are also widely used as ayurvedic cures for ovarian cyst. These herbs are known to normalise irregular menstrual periods and hormonal disorders.
Bee pollen is a powerhouse of nutrition and therefore is a competent ayurvedic cure for ovarian cyst. It also makes the reproductive system stronger.
Walnuts, red chestnuts, milk of thistles, wild yam and wild oats are also well-known ayurvedic home remedies for ovarian cyst as they are proven to cure all types of ovarian problems.
Herbs such as ginseng, fennel and sage help with hormone imbalances and prevent the formation of cysts.
Fomentation with castor oil is also an effective ayurvedic cure for ovarian cyst.
Dong quai, a popular Chinese herb helps to balance the hormones in the body, thereby promoting a healthy menstrual cycle and preventing cyst formation.
Liquorice has the ability to affect the adrenal glands which regulate the production of hormones in the body. Due to its hormone regulating action, liquorice has the power to dissolve ovarian cysts naturally in the body.
Foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, garlic and whole grains help ease the pain and discomfort caused by ovarian cysts. Moreover, refrain from foods containing caffeine, alcohol, eggs, red meat, fats, white sugar and refined foods to prevent the recurrence of this problem.

Inclusion of fibre in the diet along with supplements of vitamins A, C and E is also helpful in dealing with ovarian cyst problems.

However, a regular visit to a gynecologist probably would save us from lots of problems.

Let us live !!!

2013-06-13T10:04:00.000+05:30

What’s with this rape every single day?...Why are babies being raped?... What is so joyful about hurting a baby girl??... Why don’t desperate men go in for prostitution and satisfy themselves!!...

There is so much going around us…awareness on rape is everywhere: yet we are helpless, every second day we read about a girl being raped and half the victims are minors; the fantasy of the culprit is to insert a bottle, an iron rod and what not!!...what kind of people are they!!…I don’t feel them calling animals too; it might just turn out to be an insult to the animal clad.

Why can’t law get strict? Why isn’t law taken seriously? …Why don’t people respect law?...Is India going to live all its life just like this; Knowing the bad and not knowing what to do to avoid the bad??...Why can’t women be treated any better? Do these men believe that women are not worth any better? Or is it because men claim to be superior in this society that they treat women this way! How do you think a 4 year old baby girl can provoke Rape?

Will these questions ever be answered??

The Delhi rape episode was more like a motivational factor for so many culprits; these desperate culprits are just following the same trend and there has been no stop from then.

I fear. I definitely live a secure life, but I still fear. I get restless when my little sister gets late to reach home, I fear every single day!!...It is not just I who fear, every women of this country does

For heaven’s sake Spare the innocent babies, Spare us women. Let us live a normal life…Let us live a life without fear.

JUST LET US LIVE.

Are we Superstitious!!!

2013-06-07T17:07:00.001+05:30

Accept it or not, being an Indian we still have a little bit superstitiousness in us even to this day...We live in this modern era, claim to have a broad thinking, or you say we are more practical. But our culture and our tradition still holds us back to ancient days. Deep inside each one of us still have something very age old we believe in, which maybe very tradition or maybe very superstitious.

We are the people who still believe tying a holy thread around our wrist will protect us; Fasting on “Karvachauth” by women will bless their husbands with long life, offering a pooja is auspicious and so much more.

There is nothing to be ashamed of that. It’s our culture, it’s our belief. To a certain extent being superstitious can do good to us. Like you say wearing a certain ring on your finger can bring you luck. It may be true or maybe not. It’s just one’s belief; however the one thing which will surely improve is the positive energy and our self confidence. The Ring just plays a catalyst to us maybe improve our belief in ourselves, and just the fact that we know we have a luck factor makes us do things better and naturally we end up getting better results. This is Superstitious of course. Why not wear an accessory to boost our confidence and believe in yourself, rather than live a life full of negative thinking.

Our believes are not completely false. A lot of things were made with a scientific thought behind it. Wearing a certain kind of accessory was suggested because it drives positive energy. The term “Drive away the evil” was just another way of saying “avoid negative energy”. But it all changed because of our perceptions and interpretations. And the superstitious believes have changed from doing good and gone into being bad because our perceptions and interpretations did not go in the right way.

Fengshui, Vastu etc are not wrong. Reading them helps us understand the motive behind it. And it makes so much sense.

Like we claim we are the people from the modern era, it’s high time we realize the right motive and use our superstitiousness to do something good.

Coorg Wedding:)

2013-05-24T15:28:00.001+05:30

It’s a joy to attend a Coorg wedding…especially when it’s a family wedding, the fun is unlimited…A few pictures from my cousins wedding…

Bride leaves her home:)

pretty bride

very handsome groom

Wish you both a very happy and love filled married life:)

*****************************************************************************

What’s more important!!!

2013-05-03T14:13:00.000+05:30

I have always been the one who have sorted out my priorities pretty well (at least I think so). In fact things get easier for me. It’s all about what you want right! …And my wants stand out “bright and clear” out of the crowd...Never did it get difficult for me to decide what I want; be it anything!!… Unless I have to choose between two things which I love the most and that’s when I go ask for a piece of mind from someone I feel is the best to talk to…If I get a good piece of advice I would be the happiest of all, of course end of the day I go with my gut feeling.

So naturally I started expecting the same from the people around me…I have always been telling them the same “Think what’s more important”!!…

Maybe it’s not a cake walk, but it’s not rocket science either…All it requires is a strong heart and a feeling of ‘want’.

…But work has conquered the feeling of “Want”; sorting out priorities has taken a back stage, Commitments can’t be kept up, Relationships have to wait and so on. Of course we have it at the back of our head, but we don’t have the time to give it the importance it requires.

All we do is work and slog our life out, forgetting about what’s more important. And maybe by the time we realize it, it will be too late and there is no going back…again we end up regretting.

I have always believed that you need a luck factor when it comes to “work and career”…I don’t think it’s the same when it comes to your relationships and family. You can’t have luck there…all it needs is “Us”.

So it’s rather better we keep our self, our personal commitments and our relationships prior to work and give it the value and importance it requires before it takes a back stage.

Your relationships can be made to increase in value by investing more time in them. - Brian Tracy