Friday 3 February 2017

Cheers in Kammanahatton
















Conversations brewing and I hear someone quoting a word I had coined in the literary world, terming our locality as Kammanahatton. True to its glocal title, this area seems to be burgeoning every day and sometimes totally unrecognizable. From the days of pot hole ridden roads, bare development, this area has seen exponential growth with the mushrooming of new joints for food, drinks, entertainment and social conversations. It’s almost synonymous with Bangalore, the pub culture is raging and here is one more that is making some noise. While I review selectively, this one is special, as I have grown to be a patron of this place that has seen changing hands, yet has retained its culinary perfection and charm. The owners thrive on warmth, personal service while they keep their research updated to ensure they have the best on offer. This is Firehouse Bar & Kitchen, where conversations peak while your plate of soulful food is served with something to cheer about. So clearly I write this not after my first visit, but after this hotspot has become my choice to unwind. It began as our place to celebrate but now has me a regular visitor even on my Friday dates whenever possible, with just a stone’s throw away from home.
There is blend to this place - it’s a culmination of classic and modern, in not just the drinks or food but also in the warmth of its décor. As you drive up to its entrance, be welcomed by the hospitality of their valet, which is precious given that Bangalore has no space to park and makes going out a planning nightmare. As you enter you choose between a quaint dining at the ground level for those cozy conversations or the thumping music to show your best moves on the dance floor with a vibrant bar and a little openness on the first floor. The team here is casual and experienced, ready to give you a detail to all that is planned on the menu. The unassuming chef, is sure to impress you with the finger licking food that he dishes out. With his international exposure, eye for detail and his magic with his own combinations and secret ingredients, I have never left Firehouse disappointed with the yum in my tum. With the sizeable potions, there will always be a price tag to it, but you will see value in that tag. You get a platter of variety all under one roof from continental to oriental, or the charm of some Coorg specialities which is a hot favorite here. Confused with the variety, well they are good at it all, just take the help of the team and they will help you with all that your taste buds are craving for. I am a teetotaler so not the right one to endorse all that is high and wonderful, but with everyone who has accompanied me, they are have been thrilled with all that is to offer. You will find me happy sipping on that fabulous Fresh Lime Soda, and eating sinfully as I plunge into the depth of cheese in that indulgent Fish bake while my kids binge the French fries and Pizza - yes there is Pizza too, that is very child friendly. The bacon wrapped prawns or the oriental fare is the hubby’s favorite order. While I can go on about the many dishes that keep me tingled, it may consume all my words too.
As mums we often look for quick respites and to be able to let our hair down with a ladies night seemed like the perfect answer. We need that dash of madness and uninterrupted fun to recharge us. With proximity, everyone was thrilled and with the joy of fabulous English and Hindi music, we numbed our feet as we danced to every number that played and sipped on the fabulous cocktails and mocktails on offer. Yes you read me right, Firehouse has these fun nights planned during the week that keeps you looking for more, whether it is ladies nights on Wednesdays (Bollywood nights), Corporate nights on Mondays, Karaoke nights (or Kroke nights) on Fridays, Jive nights on Saturdays, there is always something for everyone to eat, drink, dance, sing or even learn. All these at fabulous prices and offers. While these are the days of the week, keep a look out for festivals, celebrations, when DJ’s visit, spin what they mix and Firehouse works its magic. If you have a game to catch make sure to feel the pulse of the large screen as Firehouse gives you the excitement of it all. With new management steering the reigns I hear value Sunday brunches and all inclusive meals should be on their patrons’ checklist.
I am swooned by all that they have to offer. Like every place, they have their hiccups, but they are willing to learn from patient feedback. They will make their mistakes and that’s what keeps them real. They are giving their might and are shaping what best they can. They have plans to revive, renew, refresh and recreate all that is there, with a vision that has set their minds on hospitality. I am no food critic, nor a restaurant reviewer. I write with my heart, when the stomach is content and the mind is calm. My note here will gather you no discounts, nor will it help if you take my name. But a snapshot of vibrance in that space, will tell you more than I have written here. So check it out yourselves - you may like it or may not, but you will get an idea about what I like. Have fun and write in when you do make your visit there. Make it quick cause I read they are part of the Dineout Great Indian Restaurant festival or just plan that memorable Valentine’s day with food, drinks, luck draws and prizes to be won there, and we might just bump into each other! See you soon!

In sadness we still have to speak..


I stood there looking at him. He wasn’t aware I was there. The sounds of the ICU, the sight of a ventilator made my heart sink as memories came back. In a sorry moment I knew how he felt. The doctors were struggling to keep that monitor ticking. They tried but without much hope. He was calm but tired. He had blessed us with his presence for 80 plus years and now it was time to go to a better place. The family had gathered.. everyone assuring each other with theories of peaceful death and no suffering. As I paced, my eyes glanced my 2 nephews and 1 niece who waited there. They were waiting to say goodbye to their grandfather – their loving thathu. One was old enough to understand and reason, other was too young to comprehend. But the 7 year old gripped my heart as I saw him stand by the window in silence. His mother stood by him, perhaps not sure what were the right words. I was told he was in silence through the day. He is our bundle of sweet energy who has been my best guest too. He dotes with relationships and that was his day of grief. His attachment to his grandpa was visible.. tears silently trickled down his cheeks while he controlled to wipe them off.
The man who left us was an uncle, husband to an aunt, father to his sons, and a doting grandfather to 3 grandkids. Its not his accomplishments that brought those tears, it’s the human being that he is that gathered everyone there with so much respect. A fine gentleman, few words to say, but never to politicize. He was affectionate and had no room to judge anyone. Exemplary health record, an example for many in our generation. But his certificate of character is best endorsed by these grandkids, who are the best judges of good people. They had not just lost a grandfather, but a best friend too. My heart sank, as I watched my nephew. He had to be spoken to, explained and assured, as I believe that silence is often ignored as adults swim in their own emotions of loss. 

My parenting technique is not perfect, but I have just one theory. My girls and I speak our hearts out on anything. My belief is that, they can be a part of birth and death to experience all emotions attached to it. That will keep them real and make them better rounded people. Kids these days understand more than a lot of adults so discounting their emotions is pure ignorance. On matters of death I wish upon a star to guide them always..the way they understand that my father, brother have all become stars to me and watch me every night. They understand me, and every matter brings more questions, but they learn as they go. Elders opine I give too much information, but this clarity has given me a relationship of equals and for life.
Talking to my daughters about relationships and loss of people they have not been entirely attached to, was mighty easy. But today, I was silenced with the confusion of talking to a heartbroken grandson, who needed some answer for where his ‘thathu’ was going and why. As I held him tight, and explained how his thathu was becoming a star and how he had to write to God to look after him. I cited my losses, through my life and gave my reasons to it. I spoke of memories that I remember and how I channel them. He listened intently and nodded with every question and then I suddenly felt a loud outburst as he broke down in a true childlike cry. Watching him, it was hard to hold that tear back, but I was relieved he did not hold on any longer. We spoke a while and I realized as I struggled to say anything convincing, I had already said what mattered to him. After a while, he went home – hopefully to make that card that will go with his thathu for God.
I write this today, to remind my friends who are fabulous parents and grand parents. Our biggest accomplishments will be in the eyes of our kids and grand kids. So make it count. While losses are inevitable, speak to them like there is no tomorrow. They have confusion, sadness, anger all at once. They never know how to deal with that. They might play and spike in naughtiness the next minute but don’t imagine their heart was not touched. They are impressionable, so make the right impression, cause that’s the honest one.
So here's to my cousins who will continue to give the kids the best memories and keep the thathu happiness always alive. Here's to my aunt, who will feel the loss the most, but will find ways to understand it and smile in comfort. With all my love, strength and wishes of optimism.

Thoughts on Republic Day!






One nation. One vision. One identity.
No nation is perfect. It needs to be made perfect.
- MK Gandhi
Its one day for independence and other to mark a document. Well, the way I see this, it’s all year round marking India’s democracy and what we must actually stand for – integrity, respect, safety, progress, value system, culture, thought leaders and more. Generations have seen different variations of India shining and with every passing year we hope for a better tomorrow.
While progress has been remarkable, mindsets are yet to be impacted. The never ending debate over safety continues, but still the pride with which we stand for the national anthem gleaming at the tri colors of our national flag is remarkable. There is simplicity yet there is advancement. There is modern yet there is tradition. There are western influences yet there is culture. There are complaints, yet there is pride. There is interest, yet there is initiative. We are made for India, so let’s make more in India. We make our own benchmarks, so let’s be true aspirations. We have our shortfalls, but we are willing to learn. We make corrections slowly, but there is humility to do that. We are building a tomorrow for our kids, but we love the today we are basking in. We continue to point fingers, but we also pat in admiration. We are defined strongly with corruption, but we are admired for our warmth and hospitality.
Our generation has seen the blend of modern and tradition – the weave that we string with dedication. We have a history that keeps us grateful and grounded. We have a future that keeps us hopeful. We have a culture of togetherness, traditions that speak a 1000 words and the creativity that brings passion to life.
On this republic day, may we continue to shine in India, for India, like India, hope for India and cheer for India! So let’s fearlessly make the change, in the words of MK Gandhi, “This nation will remain the land of the free, only so long as it is the home of the brave.”
Happy Republic Day!

Wednesday 25 January 2017

Welcome 2017

Here’s wishing you all that is better and more…in 2017
The year passed me by, not in silence, but with a mix of emotions. While everything is just normal, felt blessed to experience the calm that I have always yearned for. With health coming back to track and gaining gradual clarity on my words, it’s a cherished time. Like everyone around me, I have aspirations, but I dote on contentment. I yearn for memories, with a record of my choices. I will share with all my heart, and hope not to demand anything in return. It’s a huge task to hope for selflessness, so that’s not for me.
I am a year older and wiser but thrilled with my madness and willingness to get excited. With every passing year, my kids become their own beings and friends in little sizes. Let their size not fool you, because they do more justice to that equation than many I know. And for that, I am truly blessed to have begun this experience, in such an unconditional relationship. As a daughter I continue to be blessed with a role model, whose experience and advise guides me every day. My bond in marriage, gives me reason every day to be grateful for this relationship. I had new experiences, new travels and milestones that mattered. My closest bonds have given me more reason to care, worry, love and cherish. Some relationships are just not defined by distance, time, frequency or definition. Its just there, and here to stay. If you have even one like this, count yourself lucky.
 Travel will always give me my wings and I state that without any hesitation. My struggle to create two confident caring individuals will sometimes be too apparent, but only because I am human. I will continue to value friendships that have become family, not by blood or being relatives, but just the strength of the bond! I will continue to be protective and sometimes possessive about the people who matter, and have nothing to feel sorry about. Detachment is a guided philosophy in several religious practices, but that is definitely not my mantra - I am thankful to be attached, emotional and often sensitive.
Excellence, competition and ambition will always tickle you for more, but embracing our priorities makes the change so welcoming. I continue to learn that we are served in equal platter all shades of life – either we take it or leave it! Time will not heal all our losses, so neither has this year done much in that regard. But it has taught us the strength of optimism and hope. Every day new challenges pushes retirement even further, but it doesn’t pull our willingness to try.
I will continue to explore hobbies that will speak my creativity. I will share with all my heart, as much as I can. I will dream for greater aspirations that can professionally make a difference. I have responsibilities towards all my relationships, but I owe myself the most...the faster I accept that, the better it is for everyone! I have philosophies and beliefs that will be of pivotal importance and will continue to guide my existence. While optimism is my guardian angel, reality will always be my friend. I will make many mistakes in all my roles, but have no regrets to make them. I hope to dare professionally and believe that being cautious should be packed with some risks.
So here’s wishing you and your families a wonderful year ahead with many reasons to rejoice, create and be thankful. May every day be more meaningful and be filled with gratitude. Thank you for making a difference in my life. With much love and words that inspire by C.S Lewis, “You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream”.

Our new year blessing




Tanaaya ... her big 6 today....
Our Lil precious one has everyone doting on her. Tamara 's favorite and one she is clearly possessive about, she manages to boss and friend her sister all in one breath. Six years gone by and there is always something entertaining every day. In the most stressful situation she is able to lighten our minds. She has seen my best and my worst... yet she will not judge. I learn about unconditional from my girls who place family at such a pedastal.
Clear to speak as is her thoughts, open direct responses, loves with all her heart, quick to decide, bold with dance, singing and some drama, asks questions that has us perplexed and happy to share especially with Tamara. She is confident and caring, evaluates every situation and will not accept everyone blindly. Her energy, games and ideas in role play balance between what both boys and girls would like, so her friends are a fun mixed group. She can be a leader and follower all in a passing moment. She is cautious and will not get excited by activities with tremendous adventure. Her humor is amusing to anyone in the room. A bundle of energy in familiar surrounding and a calm, gentle quiet child in a formal scenario - she is both sides of a coin!
I do hope she gets all that she deserves and dreams of with all her hardwork. May there be happiness and innocence in every Lil time of your life.
She is our New Year blessing since 2011 and continues to sparkle in our home! Our New Year's cant get more festive, I hope yours is too!

Its a wonderful life!




We all dawned roles in the parody of Ramayana. We all had to act and embrace our parts with a lot of practice. But there was our ‘Suparnaka’ who glamorized a Helen and stole hearts as she kept the beats and created a character who no one would want to forget. While that was her role, in life too she has made the impressions that matter. She lives in hearts and showers joy. In sadness I write, as I know I will miss her, its been a privilege to have a friend in you – Kanchan. She is the birthday star today!
The room sparks up as she walks in. She radiates humor and calmness that gives an everyday boost. She has an understated glamor that she carries with so much poise. Western or Indian, she has a smart elegance. She is not the one who pretends, she keeps every moment real. She has her battles, yet she smiles her worries away. A friend to all, she keeps no sides, it’s ‘true character’ that makes her admirable. In her heart and her home, there is a system to her madness. A sportive person, ready to embrace, she makes jokes or is willing to be the joke, all in dignity and grace. She shares the same culinary imperfections as me and that makes me love her more. With mounting pressures and quick changes, she has shown optimism in every mode. Challenges are many, tasks are never ending, but she holds the fort like no one I know. Amidst all this chaos, as she ticks of her check list, she is ready to give you a helping hand without any hesitation. Her deepest love has been the monk, oh don’t be fooled, the Old Monk is what I meant! I love her zest for life, and willingness to change and see change. She sees people but doesn’t judge them. She stays grounded and defines humility. She has a remarkable husband who balances with utmost charm. Her affectionate daughter, spreads her warmth to one and all.
There is always that one friend, whose spontaneity and cool attitude teaches you more in life than the deepest philosophies. She has been the heart of our apartment complex and now she gets ready to embrace a new chapter in her life, where she has grown to be someone so remarkable. On her birthday, here’s wishing you all that is happy and more, and to let you know how much you would be missed at Harmony Homes. May you always keep your madness alive and remember the charm you are leaving behind here in Bangalore. Do make your visits to Bangalore atleast an annual agenda. Much love and hugs on your birthday!

Happy Republic Day




One nation. One vision. One identity.
No nation is perfect. It needs to be made perfect.
- MK Gandhi

Its one day for independence and other to mark a document. Well, the way I see this, it’s all year round marking India’s democracy and what we must actually stand for – integrity, respect, safety, progress, value system, culture, thought leaders and more. Generations have seen different variations of India shining and with every passing year we hope for a better tomorrow.

While progress has been remarkable, mindsets are yet to be impacted. The never ending debate over safety continues, but still the pride with which we stand for the national anthem gleaming at the tri colors of our national flag is remarkable. There is simplicity yet there is advancement. There is modern yet there is tradition. There are western influences yet there is culture. There are complaints, yet there is pride. There is interest, yet there is initiative. We are made for India, so let’s make more in India. We make our own benchmarks, so let’s be true aspirations. We have our shortfalls, but we are willing to learn. We make corrections slowly, but there is humility to do that. We are building a tomorrow for our kids, but we love the today we are basking in. We continue to point fingers, but we also pat in admiration. We are defined strongly with corruption, but we are admired for our warmth and hospitality.

Our generation has seen the blend of modern and tradition – the weave that we string with dedication. We have a history that keeps us grateful and grounded. We have a future that keeps us hopeful. We have a culture of togetherness, traditions that speak a 1000 words and the creativity that brings passion to life.

On this republic day, may we continue to shine in India, for India, like India, hope for India and cheer for India! So let’s fearlessly make the change, in the words of MK Gandhi, “This nation will remain the land of the free, only so long as it is the home of the brave.”

Happy Republic Day!

Monday 29 August 2016

10 years of us..and counting!

Day100..#100daysofhappiness #100happydays


There is an unseen pressure in putting my words for this day 100. Apart from the fact that it’s a milestone and a conclusion to my 100 happy days journey, it also marks a significant moment in my ‘happily ever after’ story! It’s our 10th wedding anniversary today and I am elated and grateful!
Initially I thought it would be lovely to get married once again but then I realized we have exchanged our vows for a lifetime, so do we really need a reminder? Didn’t seem like it after having reflected on the decade gone by. Like every perfect marriage, we are just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other. So while most love stories are beautiful, ours is always my favorite! I read this line “Marriage is when a man looses his bachelor’s degree and a woman gets her master’s degree” and though cited in humor, I was forced to introspect if this was our picture too, then realized that ours is a friendship of equals and a partnership of love, so no one loses a degree, our strengths help us both gain. We have loved, cared, shared, cried, and laughed, fought, complained, obligated, reasoned, accepted, supported and so much more. We have memories that keep us real yet have us smiling with our hearts. We have dreams that keep us working for more. We may disagree on matters but we know what it means to come half way and sometimes more! We support each other on our parenting styles..With Hitler shifting roles! We are willing to smile in the name of obligations that take time to settle in our individual belief system. We don’t count our victories, instead we count our blessings. If there is calm, there is also excitement. If there is gratefulness there is also celebration.
It’s been a testing journey not as a relationship but from life and its unpredictability.  Not to sound like a mood dampener but after being under a medical trauma, every waking day is a gift to be grateful about irrespective of any limitations. This is perhaps the reason, over the years my prayers have changed from an ambitious career to being there for my family. So even when there are new challenges I am not angered any more, I am just more embracing. While it’s been nerve wrecking for me, I have seen family come together like no other and be the pillar that very few are blessed to have. At a time when I was at my worst, I have seen them smile, cry, be courageous, work hard at being optimistic, combine duty with love and are willing to do ‘just about anything’ to be my hope! We have children who teach me everyday the value of innocence, unconditional love and living the moment. We are their parents and perhaps not perfect, but we have the willingness to make the mistakes and correct them too. We have a style of parenting that brings a parent and friend on the same platter and that’s what makes our relationship precious. So when you actually land a milestone like your 10th wedding anniversary, all you want to say is a big thank you with all my love.
Celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary means remembering the years gone by, making us stronger as a family. This marriage began with a celebration of grandeur that mum planned to the last detail, as we embarked on a new phase. Just when our family headcount was receding, we were blessed with more fullness through so many new relationships and stronger old ones too. This marriage renewed my faith in relationships and all that is emotional. Charles Dickens once said, “Family not only need to consist of merely those whom we share blood, but also for whom we would give blood”. Glad we have more such people!
With celebration almost being my second name, doing something memorable that makes my heart dance was a given. Napoleon once said “If the earth were a single state, then Istanbul would be its capital”. So for our anniversary celebration, Istanbul had to be the chosen destination, though we were repeatedly informed about the destination being red flagged. But everything about Istanbul, sounded just about right… at the confluence of Europe and Asia, where cultures meet and synergize into something rather magical. There is a blend of modern and ancient, legends echo its greatness, the captivating Bosphorous that calms your soul and the warmth of locals that redefines welcome. There is trouble in this destination for all its external dangers, but no one has been able to disturb its charm amidst so much chaos. So much buzz around that city that visiting there was definitely on our bucket list.
There is something about Istanbul that draws parallels to marriage for me. It has everything that matters, yet it yearns for more. It blends the best of both cultures in such harmony. There is chaos and calm. There is grandeur and simplicity. There is passion and hard work. There is warmth and decency. There is history yet the mind to embrace change. There is maturity and experience. There is a willingness to move on positively. There is fun and boundaries. There is faith and openness. So being in Istanbul for our 10th anniversary was a lot more meaningful that just a ‘perfect getaway’.
So today on our 10th anniversary for you Arya, here’s a facebook wish from me to you!
Ten years together is what we share,
With you and me as a pair!
Memories made, milestones are many,
With family and friends, it is worth every penny.
Show you my love with words is all I can,
Cause I am no kitchen fan.
No promises for a fancy meal or a beer mug,
Instead planned holidays by this travel bug!
Thank you for all the laughter, madness and care,
So ten more decades would only be fair!
I love you for all that you are,
With me, you’re shining star!
Promises made, now and then
Its always ‘I do’ at every ten!

Smitten yet saddened...

The news read... bomblast at Istanbul close to Grand Bazaar. My heart sank knowing that I was there just yesterday soaking in everything that went past the last 10 years and thankful for a journey gone by. They welcomed in excitement and celebrated our happiness.

I was smitten by the charm of a city so fascinating that has the strength to see and show beauty in the midst of chaos. We laughed and explored as though we were almost young and carefree yet saw new meaning in every moment we spent there. We discovered vibrancy as a local would. The city did not rush us and that gave us a new lease of life.

I am glad our big 10 was at Istanbul with a fabulous celebration to conclude here back home with so much love. Everything that mattered got me smiling. As I thank Istanbul for giving me a memory for a lifetime.. I pray for the spirit of the wonderful people there who make that city as beautiful as it is!  In admiration and gratitude. . With love!

The girls who keep me giggling

I may not have known a lot of you for the longest time, but you have given me reason enough to say thank you for spreading cheer every now and then.

There's nothing like the pain in your stomach with tears rolling down the cheeks when you have laughed with all your heart and most often for not a real reason! With some, its the deepest conversations while with others its infectious laughter or just the cheerful hello everyday! These girls seem to make life happy and crazy every now and then, so here's a thank you for giving me everything that matters - laughter!

(Ps: Included the lil kids who teach me pure fun every day and our apartment monkey - my lil Basanti whom I seem to have grown fond of, whenever she is around - even though from a distance!)

Thank you once again for celebrating life every now and then even without an occasion! So here's to girls who know that joy has no definition!

To the father of my kids

Our steps are getting bigger and our height taller. We seem heavier to lift though sharper in mind. We have our tricks and test you often. Every stride you take is sometimes too big for us to pace hand in hand but we look forward to taking many smaller steps just to be by your side. But we love more than you can imagine and that does not change with time. Holding us close.. you smile with pride. We are two sides of the same coin and we are glad that coin is yours. We love how we play, laugh and have fun with you. We know we can fuss and look forward to every meal prepped to be special by you. The news filled baths, mind numbing massages, yoga all seem to be a ritual of our own. We laugh and cry, with you to hold us. We fall and rise with your finger to hold. Our equation has a little bit of everything and thats what makes it perfect!

Happy Father's Day Dada... with all our love Tamara and Tanaaya.. Arya Ganapathy

Happy Father 's day again!

It was Father's Day on June 20, 1999... so looking back I will always smile in sadness as I bid farewell to a man who lived on his terms. He was undeniably a big influence to me in my 18 years after which Nimmi Belliappa mum held the mantle of being my mum, dad and best friend... not an easy task but she did it with perfection and today is my forever idol.

A scroll of words drafted and gifted to my dad...there was a strange gleam of recovery he showed that morning.. a hope I wished came true.. but destiny had other plans and it was time to bid adeau to my dad.. not our relationship, not our memories and always have promises made in my heart.. that I had been entrusted with.. ... There was deep sadness in the heart but unwillingness to lose my strength for fear of not being able to support the family I have with me. There will always be a question... have I cried enough but always the comforting thought that I hold him in my heart every day....

Every year Father's day is on the 3rd sunday of June..which will be the day my kids will cherish with memories of fondness with the father of my children.. but for me father 's day will always be June 20... if ever the day coincides again.. I will not smile in sadness but rejoice the morning that was on June 20, 1999.

happy father's day Daddy... you are loved everyday! Mommy happy father's day to you for perfecting a dual role as we continue to learn the nuances of our parenting sagas.

With love...

Monday 23 May 2016

Coorg with love!




It's been 10 years and every summer we have our holidays planned with my in laws.. with each time more to learn, unwind, more memories and days well spent. There is charm and warmth with open conversations .. that are heartfelt and joyous.. often the best. There are definitely the occasional debates which just broaden my thought process every time. With an abundance of lush green, clear air, plenty of walks, lip smacking food, sleep indulgence, soul conversations, entertained kids with childhood treasures like tree climbing, some rustic kung fu, running games, skating, going wild with massages, ducks, dogs and cats, preview of culture and tradition, visits that keep you real and that carefully planned fun family picnic that adds to my memory book... I think I just described a fabulous vacation which we just came back from.... with perfect weather too! Hope you had as much fun as we did! While I have some weight to shed now.. it seemed a worthy gain!
Tip: our picnic to Irupu falls was magical as we soaked under the falls.. the water was just enough for our family playtime and what made it perfect is it was such a private time with the whole crowd clearing out in anticipation of the rain. We definitely got lucky.. but definitely recommend visiting this plc when water is less too.. it has a different charm. Also if you do pack an elaborate picnic lunch like we did look for that awesome banyan tree away from the entrance amidst the fields to bask under and indulge in true picnic style away from the crazy crowd. If your family is as loving, dependable, non fuss and full of madnesss as mine then an awesome time is guaranteed.
Thank you Aditya Nanjappa Appanna Adengada Deepak Poovaiah for all your patience and fun. We are definitely not an easy gang but you guys make it always so simple.. we missed you Karthik Kuttappa. The 3 ladies always surprise me with their zest for fun and laughter. Lets begin our plan for Oct 😉

Day 99 and counting!


Day 99...‪#‎100daysofhappiness‬ ‪#‎100happydays‬
Long post alert - do read till the end! A thank you!


Oprah Winfrey once said “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more in life there is to celebrate”. As most of you know the girl’s birthdays were celebrated together with our theme galas in January and in May we do something more meaningful yet memorable, that will always make them understand that celebrations are of many variants.
As Tamara turned 8 yesterday, we saw the day unfold in so many ways that we could not help being thrilled and blessed. As a family we did the morning routines of cake, balloons, hand made cards, small gifts, new clothes and more blessings. Thereafter, I was pleasantly surprised seeing the initiative of Tamara’s 5 best buddies in the apartment, who had planned to the last T- a creative and fun surprise party for her by the pool side…In case you are wondering what are the ingredients to a fun surprise birthday party, we can learn a few pointers from these 7 to 10 year old’s – blind folding the birthday girl, setting up a picnic spot with handmade crafty decorative, hand made cards, home made cake decorated and designed, chocolates, water to sip, tissues for the tidy up and keepsake novelty hand made gifts all energized by the roaring and enthusiastic surprise scream as the birthday girl arrived at the spot. She definitely did not expect it and had her heart melting. There was simplicity yet magic and a moment of feeling blessed.
Mother Teresa once said, “We cannot all do great things but we can do small things with great love and together we can do something wonderful”. While all this cheer had our hearts dancing, we were getting ready to celebrate and hope to do a small thing with great love. In all honesty, I was nervous and perhaps an overly concerned mother. While I had planned for the girls to celebrate this occasion in an orphanage, I honestly hoped to find a place that would leave a happy taste for both the T’s as this was their first experience and I wanted to ensure they found reason enough to want to go back for more such interactions. With this thought, my concern as a citizen aiming to do social good does not justify but as a mother I think it does. Thankfully with a after various recommendations, we opted for Home of Faith (Thank you Revathy Krishna Kumar) in Kothanur. Its home to 40 kids (both girls and boys) from 4 years to 18 years. It’s a registered trust but not a home which places the kids up for adoption. They are not the kinds who receive funds from all over the world or any missionaries. They thrive on themselves or close well wishers. It’s not a large establishment. It’s a house that facilitates responsibility and humanity, a large family bonding, love, and joys in small things. It’s a happy place that makes you want to come back for more! So here’s the grandest part. It’s run by a couple (he was a chemistry/ biology teacher in a reputed school previously), who bring up all the kids along with their own 3 and seem to just not differentiate. They are all educated, taken care of, loved and shown greater values. While education is one aspect, they also strive to give them more meaning and reason to aspire for greater things. Hobbies, instruments, summer school, special schooling for slow learners are all inclusions that each child gets exposure to here reminding us that no one is less privileged. The education institution gives this couple a marginal deduction to the fees of each child, but still seems like an expensive proposition in my eyes. The power of language with ‘the right English’ has not been left behind here, with each child speaking accurately, an area that both T’s initially thought would be a hindrance for them to interact owing to their limitations with kannada. There is just talent and hard work, channelising the effort is upto us!
We were welcomed with such openness, balloons of festivity, smiles and warm hello’s. The cakes were cut, cheered by the birthday song. As the kids all parted their responsibilities and shared the cake with everyone, I sensed an odd feeling of being treated as ‘VIP guests’. Clearly, I did not want my kids to get an isolated experience feeling more privileged there. Realizing that we just needed an ice breaker, I decided to conduct games with all the kids… games that made noise, had madness and loud laughter. Sure enough, before I knew it, the kids had blended in, there was excitement and they did not want to leave. Delicious lunch was served and all kids sat together and ate. It was time to leave and we definitely want to go back again, but what made it more convincing were the words of a young girl Divya. “Do visit us again”, is what she says that rings in my heart. With an experience this positive, I am now ready to introduce them to many other areas that probably will require more compassion from both my girls, but in time I know they will build that too!
As army kids, we have grown up learning our P’s and Q’s, wishing all our elders, acknowledging passing aunts and uncles’ and more. So much is missing in this generation, that in-spite of promising schools that soak more fees than worthy, or repeated reminders by parents, so many aspects are just not considered important to most kids these days. On the same note, the kids from slums who come for education support to our apartment or these children at the orphanages show more decorum and manners. It’s a small thing, but large enough to make well rounded individuals. Tomorrow the uber cool ‘highly educated’ kids will probably be successful in their careers but not so much as ‘human beings’ as compared to the others who have understood these life lessons in close proximity and value relationships more! This is something, we as parents need to understand a lot more and not pass it off as a ‘parental challenge joke’, cause when the time comes, and we will not be laughing!
After a fruitful celebration, we had an impromptu ‘cake in the park’ time with all the park kids and some parents singing as we cut and shared a cake. Even with a cake over dose, the day was lined with people who cared with all their heart and that made it special. Abraham Lincoln quoted “Its not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years”. With days like this, we are definitely seeing only life in our years. Tamara and Tanaaya had a truly memorable day and we thank you all for making it special with all your blessings and wishes. I am glad we have established this new family tradition of 2 part celebrations (in January and May). Mom and Arya have supported this tradition with so much gratitude and now the kids are excited to embrace it too! So here’s to new beginnings, milestones that matter, making a difference and appreciating lives beyond our hectic schedules!
With the big 100 round the corner, I want to thank the people who have given me all the reason to embark on this journey of relationships, moments and everything happy in my 100 days. Thank you Nimmi Belliappa for being the 'perfect mum and best friend, making this journey of 100 days with me at every step, sometimes showing me the impossible and most times teaching me all the way. I have learnt being unconditional, strong and independent from her, and that has been my biggest life lesson. In so many ways we are similar and different, but she is the force that keeps me together. Thank you Arya Ganapathy for making every day of 10 years count and as we look forward to many decades ahead. We can drive each other nuts yet hold each other like no one else can. We have a life to build and time is always going to be an issue, but am happy, we know what matters to both of us! Lastly my two T's who are everything my world is about, who make me look good on my worst days and love me no matter how horrifying I might get. They teach me innocence and true value every day!
Thank you all the folks, who have been part of my 100 days, either featured or as readers, who have not opposed my thought of acknowledging people who matter to me on a social platform and for describing my observations on them. As readers, you all have been very supportive and encouraging without whom I would not have been able to come this far. Thank you! The big 100 will be up soon and thereafter I have to gather a new literary journey! Until the next post!
So here's to people who can make a difference, just the way they have made in mine!

Everything Mother's Day is about!

Everything Mother's Day is about. . With love 


Woke up this morning to so much love hugs and uncontrollable kisses by both my munchkins as they jumped and hugged to wish me on this mother's day. As i sat and held them both my mind raced a flashback to the last 8 years and ever since I smiled at what has transpired.

The news came positive on my birthday in 2007... we were all ecstatic. A baby was coming.. and a new mom was to be born in May 2008. While I enjoyed my pregnancy I had not attained any level of selflessness, though in time I had to perfect that. It was a scary thought. The day had arrived and the exhausting labor gave us a beautiful baby girl .. who everyone exclaimed didn't look like a monkey baby like most new born. I held that Lil baby thinking the toughest is over with the labour pain now comes the easy part. I looked at her long enough hoping to get an instant connection and tear down in emotion just the way the movies have shown this moment. But to my horror I had no connection. .. I was the milk machine and she was the receiver. As troubling as that sounds.. after 2 months of struggling and crying for lack of emotion.. the day arrived when she held my finger looked at my eyes and I knew there was no looking back. My heart skipped a beat and chose to shadow the baby from there on. I had become a mother..late for many but attached for life. That journey began in 2008 and got stronger as I battled a crisis to become a 2nd time mum ... this time I yearned for my baby from her first second but destiny had a different pattern and the wait was testing but worth it . Second time again... but a stronger mum this time I was prepared to have my heart running with both the angels. We have had our limitations but our love has been unending. We have seen joy, celebration, sadness, pain, anger, struggle and hope and has built each of us as rounded human beings. 

I am a friend and disciplinarian. I hold them close and probably can over protect but I also know where they need less of me. They might test me many times but motherhood has also given me the power of patience in the same note. The endless demands may exhaust me out but I also know they will never be this way again. My temper is at its peak at one moment and am in splits the next... which is possible only with their innocence, unconditional love and softness. Selflessness was not just a term anymore it was a relationship. I am a doting mom who doesn't get embarrassed to hope for me time along the way cause i know my rejuvenation will keep our relationships intact. Someone close today happened to cite an astrological trivia about how names ending with a tend to be more successful while names ending with I or any other are not as successful. While I disagree with this theory .. it is still safe to say that my mum n me both with names ending with I are definitely successful mums.. now that is a true accomplishment to share with anyone who brings such a blind theory to an educated audience.

Through all my years I had been privileged to have a best friend and mother in one person... my mom.. and now it was time I reflected on everything she perfected and learnt everyday. While routines and schedules repeat there is so much to learn everyday that I may never be an expert parent. Trust, care, share, encourage, smile endlessly, hope, dream, pray, letting go are more philosophies I learnt along the way. So as a mother I have had an enriching experience as I become a teacher and student every day. I have seen my mum unconditionally love and be our pillar of strength no matter what. She has seen the worst but not let anyone or anything dampen her hope for life and that is something I want to hold on to. She has patiently helped me through every little battle including my first brush to motherhood. She has embraced grand motherhood in the same zest, love and enthusiasm as she did with motherhood and that makes me wonder how she does that. She teaches me the glory in having madness and sanity in every relationship. We laugh, cry, share, care, hope, remember and explore. We are similar and apart and that's how we complete each other.

On this mothers day, mom I want to thank you with all my love for giving me the best learning's moments of laughter, deepest philosophies and showing me reasons to care. Your bigheartedness is such an inspiration that generosity should be a mantra everywhere. I look forward to being your shadow the way you have been mine. I can never perfect motherhood like you but I can make my own version too with some mistakes along the way. I look forward to 'our time' together and shaping new memories. The kids are lucky to have you by their side giving them lessons that I may never be able to impart in such a fun way.

As Maya Angelou quoted..'to describe my mother would be like to write about a hurricane in its perfect power or the climbing, falling of rainbow colors.'.. hence describing my perfect mum cannot be aptly worded but in gist you get the sentiment. My mum is everything I would like to be.. much luv n hugs mom on mother's day.

Monday 2 May 2016

Everything I hoped for!

She is the reason I was privileged with the title of motherhood. Its been 8 years and such a memorable journey.  She is all I hoped for.. though has grown faster than I wanted.

Tamara.. our first princess turns 8. In so many ways she teaches me and keeps me real. I tend to be protective with her as her softness can often be misunderstood. A curt remark at her or anyone she cares about and tears are bound to flow...While I worry at times, I am happy she will remain real, true and hearty in every relationship. She is sensitive but life will make this her biggest strength. She knows the meaning of bonds and loves with all her heart. She knows diplomacy.

She races with passion in sport and dance. She has her reservations and is conservative in some facets.... an area I am often confused about. She has her own sense of fashion.. probably not everything i agree with but i respect her choice as an individual even if she is young... she is entitled to her views and opinions. She has seen me at my worst but does everything to keep my best. She holds in assurance and with meaning. She grows in mind and body with  the purity and innocence that I hope to always nurture.

She is a protective daughter, loving grand daughter and a doting sister. She blends with ease with older kids and a responsible playmate to younger ones. With her mind ready to explore new games... age is of no consequence in the company of kids. Books have not really lured her yet...but dance and music has her heart beating. She writes with warmth and beauty. She is impressionable but also adaptable. She grows gracefully and always reminds me of how miracles happen. She has had the maximum injuries but I love the strength she builds with each fall. She is patient and loves to be treated with patience. She sees my eyes and knows if my heart smiles. She has a ready hand yearning to help.

Today on her birthday... I am beaming with pride about a daughter who teaches me everyday. I do hope I can always be her mother and friend walking by her side, even as she may opt for the road less travelled too. I hope she always has the strength to be beautiful at heart and the passion to fearlessly follow her dreams.

Wednesday 27 April 2016

The family holiday

Day 98...#100daysofhappiness #100happydays

Travel, photographs, writing are my strong de-stress weapons. Sitting on my computer, I travel the world and often find new itineraries that give me wings any time. So vacations means - holiday time! Everyone said, so did Facebook stories - going with kids - Hong Kong is the place! Photographs do tell stories, but is it always the real picture! Quoting an Asian proverb, "Better to see something once than to hear about it a thousand times". So the destination was finalized!

Come summer, travel plans had to be etched, and in my mind, I knew that before I embark my kids on an India travel experience for the next 5 years, I wanted them to experience the Disneyland for young ones that we had heard so much about. As much as it meant to be a story for them to explore, I was more keen on visiting a dream that I had grown up with... taking that iconic picture with Mickey Mouse! The ease of access and proximity to a country in Asia itself, made it a lot more inviting knowing that royal hospitality was a given. Given our experience in all other Asian countries, we had our expectations set! If you are a travel and photo buff as much as I am then here is a small travel recommendation: please use a selfie stick -  the ease to capture our family time all in one frame was possible only with this selfie stick without seemingly harassing people around for taking those clicks

As we embarked on this journey long enough to soak in the sights, sounds and smell of Hong Kong and Macau, while short enough to not get home sick, we had packed and planned our itinerary to almost perfection! The flights are always entertaining for kids with the movies galore that keep them up and charged, while the food and drinks makes it a perfect 'no veggie' moment.

Macau's grandeur is not under stated and probably worth it to soak in the enthusiasm with which folks throng there to visit the world's largest casino - The Venetian or for that pulsating bungee jump, again the world's highest bungee point, which has left me wanting to come back again to take that plunge. Its not so much for children but hotels like where we stayed at the Sheraton Grand, they do try little things that hope to keep the curious minds engaged with a Madagascar parade or Shrekfast!

Hong Kong - a projected party destination and perhaps shoppers paradise, has skyscrapers that are unimpressive during the day. The glitz of lights conceals the ugliness of the buildings. Unlike other Asian countries, the buildings here are unimpressive and perhaps reveal the age of the structure with its poor exteriors. Having said that, the people here are charming and welcoming compared to their Chinese counterparts, which I was personally miffed about the last time I went to China. They understand the sense of space, boundaries and respect. Each to their own, yet happy to help when asked. The system has a clear and reliable administration, which people are so proud of. Police is there as a problem solver and not to penalize that even kids know that the touch of 999 will help them when no one else can. People work hard all their lives to make ends meet and dreams come true with the owning of a small piece of real estate, which accordingly to the locals, if you have a house, girls will be ready to marry. So as late as 40 or 45, people are tying the knot and embracing a new phase of life. With real estate prices skyrocketing, owning a shop will make you rich for life, with high rentals. They hate corruption, cheating and counterfeiting hence Chinese and Indians are not perhaps their favorite, but they don't make it obvious. While some Indian's there have established their presence, there are others not worthy a mention, who seem to tarnish the image of a country that should have been held in high esteem with sale of fake items, robbery and extortion in the most surprising way.

If one has to be thrilled about sights of Hong Kong, there is nothing that might be fitting enough to be entered in a travelogue, apart from the harbor, the tram ride up Victoria peak, the SamBan ride in the fishing village, the beaches, and the method in the madness of night markets. While it misses a glorious history, so the stories are made by the people who thrive. We had a comfortable ride, so the public transport could not be tested, but we did hear great things about it! With no manufacturing credits, and mostly import driven, hoping for a price advantage to shop would be an unfair deal. Nevertheless the negotiations at the night markets are fun and gets you back for more. As we were in the midst of all the action in TST at Holiday Inn Golden Mile, food options are plenty. A note here, that even the McD, KFC and Pizza Hut have their specialties prepared by their chef's which were lip smacking. The weather is sporadic so a perfectly planned holiday can get dampened with rains and thunder showers. But nothing seems to slow anyone down.. they move on with the opening of an umbrella... two days later, we learnt to expect the unexpected and with handy's guidance on sights, maps and must do's (the smartphone - a compliment of our hotel for our use) and an umbrella, we moved on! Our plan to visit Stanley and the 3D museum had to be shelved due to the weather unfortunately.
Disneyland was perhaps not everything we hoped for and that was a bit disappointing for me, though kids were mighty thrilled. With my resolve to meet Micky Mouse, I along with the many hundreds queued up for hours together, for that photograph while the kids were trying for opportunities with other character meet and greets which were available on a limited basis, hence many missed moments or no shows perhaps. While they were saddened to miss meeting Judy Hopps of Zootopia after 4 attempts, they were thrilled to meet Princess Sofia. The search for Anna and Elsa of Frozen was never ending, and as we were prepared to 'Let it go' we finally spotted  them along with all the characters of Disney books in a stage performance in the Wonderous book show! The rides here are enjoyable for little kids, so makes it fun. The shows, the jungle safari were fabulous and made us visit as many shows as we could, with each one fascinating in a new way - futuristic, concepts, entertaining and perfect. We got to see the celebrations of HK Disneyland's 10th anniversary, so the grandeur and charm with held its image. Food options are limited and perhaps not worthy a mention apart from the use of mickey shaped food options for kids. Travelling with kids and hoping to bypass that pricey Disney gift shop is an impossible task, so we had to make that regretful stop. The deed was done and the plug out just got tougher. The queues for all character meets, rides and shows demands tremendous patience, which we thankfully had braced with. While a full park tour can be done with the train, the zone exploration has to be on foot and with 2 children of 7 and 5 years, they did not seem happy to bask the sun and sudden rain. My pedometer turned handy and tracked our steps, turning out we clocked 13 kms doing the rounds here in Disneyland... so do use your imagination on the foot massages we dreamt about. The rain was a mood dampener as both the parades were cancelled, but the concluding Disney in the stars fireworks show, made our hearts come alive on the backdrop of the castle. That was truly magical and something I might always remember Disneyland for! We were exhausted yet we smiled, we knew that the child in each of us were thrilled with a dream that came true - we were in Disneyland and that's what mattered!

With chocolates being our last stop, we were ready to come back. Kids were thrilled and waiting to pour out their news back home. Content with their goodies, and attempting a sometimes graphic or worded journal, they knew they had a story to tell. Like they say, of all the books in the world, the best stories are found in the pages of a passport. While its not my recommendation as a holiday destination for the travelling soul, but if you have traveled the rest of the world, then you can consider stopping by here! While Hong Kong did not live upto its hype, it perhaps gave us our 'ideal' family holiday.  Sipping of coffee on top of Victoria Peak, as we overlooked everything Hong Kong was about through the glass walls of the hill top coffee shop, while kids binged on hot chocolate and cookies, we felt a sense of calm! We had our time together, without schedules, joy in little things, learning's of new cultures and an aspiration to see value in our life, which we often take for granted. 10 years as a couple, almost 8 years as parents, we smiled for a journey that tested and rejoiced in so many ways.

After a holiday, I always yearn a recovery holiday, but that would just be wishful!