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...

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.

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.

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!

Birthday again.. in remembrance

My words repeat... so do my sentiments... for a brother I cherish all my life. Celebrating his life on his birthday I speak with joy and sadness but with emotions that teach me everyday...

We smile, we celebrate, we relive moments gone by, we cry, we laugh, we miss, we share, we wish for another chance to have him with us again... Apr 15 is a birthday in our family - my brother s birthday.... Deepak, Deepu or Nany as most of you know him but for me .. my anna. Its been 11 years but for us time stands still ... time is not a healer just gives us enough strength to embrace life with grace and dignity... and under the circumstances I think we did fine...

Today as I look back, I am happy with the time we shared.. our relationship, our bonding had all the perfect ingredients as siblings... I fought - he made peace, I cried - he held me, we shared and cared, we loved and laughed, we were poles apart in our interests but always had a point of mutual comfort, we respected our boundaries yet looked out for each other, agreed to disagree sometimes but the one aspect we always agreed on was to always be mums rock..

With a marginal age difference our growing years seemed like a twin life... we grew with each other, for each other and about each other. We grew in the same patterns of life, entertaining our curiosities, shielding each other, gauging friendships in our parents and respecting boundaries to the parent child relationships.

He was a terrific son, brother, friend with the right persona for the defense services balanced by his passion for golf. He believed sleep was a waste of time so his every second was about 'live life to the fullest'. His love for the wheel and the thrill and ease with which he would clock speeds across long or short distances always had me thrilled. His magnetic personality always had him surrounded by umpteen friends, cousins. .... he was the force that mandate gatherings and reunions during his vacations in Bangalore. He was very generous and always ready to help... so much so we continue to hear from so many folks who share with us the impact he had on their lives and the difference he made...He loved kids and was a natural ice breaker while i used my charm on pets.. so was a pretty winning combination. He believed in excellence, quality and a lifestyle with brands. His love for colors not just in attire also reflected the joy with which he saw life. While stress, tension and getting worked up were my forte's, his mantra for life was calmness and staying stress free.

In this journey, while it was a short life.. it was a life well lived. He is missed more with every passing day as we ponder and imagine him as a husband, father, brother in law and the doting uncle to my daughters who fondly refer to him as mamu.

While destiny has its own choices, we have the joy of seeing so many shades of him in both my kids.

On your birthday... today as you turned 37.. I am thrilled that we have so many memories that we have shared... while the journey was short atleast it was one that mattered and not like so many that lack the true bonding of brothers n sisters. So here s to a perfect brother that made life count in more ways than I can imagine... may I learn to live, love and laugh in as much purity as you did. With love...

We grew like twins, my rock forever. We amused each other and protected endlessly. We cherished and lived like there was no tomorrow and am glad that's what we did. It was short, but fulfilling to think, that you made life count, without regrets and touched hearts in more ways than I can ever imagine. Today, we are surrounded by people whom you cared for and is overwhelming to hear the emotions that string so many stories. In a moment the world changed for us, but time stood still and with every passing day, as we continue to build memories, we are thrilled that you live with us in our hearts to see so many milestones!

A thousand words wont bring you back, I know because I tried,
A thousand tears wont bring you back, I know because I cried!
- Kily Dunbar

Years have passed, you are a memory for many even before Facebook had memory timelines. I have said it before and say it again, you will always be my 'today' everyday! We have grown from black and white to color, but in my heart I want to hold on to the 'endlessness' we shared in black and white.

While I will always be grateful for our time together, I know I am just being human when I say... I wish you were here. I read this somewhere and found it apt. It said "RIP means Rest In Peace" though my heart says "Return If Possible".

Every day we learn something new
We cherish and believe it all to be true
You taught me about hope and cheer
To live happily without fear!
In my heart you shine every day
Every second that's what I pray
So much of you I see in my kids today
Wish you could meet them and play.

So here's to loving, living, losing and believing that with every passing day life teaches us more, but we always find the strength in what and who we are taking along! For a brother, another year gone by, holding your hands and smiling everyday!

The bus stop girls

Day 97… #100daysofhappiness #100happydays

Its 0725 am on a weekday and I find myself repeatedly calling out for Big T to make her way with me down to the bus stop. We want to get there in time, as we both have our agendas. She races there to play with her friends at the stop and luck has it, but the child to reach last is often the den. So that’s our time keeper along with that consistent watsapp message that comes from our route admin from stop 1, which reads our action for the day “The bus just left”. My rush is to make it to avoid the school drop and get my dose of laughter that keeps my day upbeat! Monday blues seems like a passé, with the stop chats.

It’s the wait for the bus every morning at our bus stop. It’s monotonous but fun, relaxed yet alert and hilarious yet chat worthy. While I love the excitement of landing up ‘dressed up’, the presence of mums in clothes of immense comfort makes the whole ambiance so comfortable. Don’t let my note, misguide you. We are not just mums, but some dads too, who either observe, discuss the world issues or stay amused with the uproar of laughter that erupts as we mums chat away, if not, a target to bullying by all the mums. 

We are the mums who contemplated if the photos pose should reflect ‘Mums with Tums’ or ‘Mums with Bums’. After much deliberation and thought, this was our best pose to safeguard all our interests. The photo was my insistence so the reminder for these moments was true persistence.  The rush of the morning routine gets its much deserved break at the school bus stop with giggles and stories that make the heart charged for the day. There is an abundance of madness, concern, warmth and fun that brightens the gloominess of the morning. We meet every day and so their admittance in my 100 days just seemed natural.

We are not there to judge each other. Our get up in the morning is hardly a concern. The attires in this picture were specifically planned to ensure our best foot forward for the photograph. We are eager to share, and hold no hesitation groaning about motherhood. For many, we may appear to be imperfect mums, but we have the blessing of not being obsessive about our kids. We believe in normalcy and are ok with our kids combining a bit of junk and healthy in their day. We are not here aspiring to race toppers; instead we are here to nurture well rounded self respecting individuals, with a humor that will ride them through life. We are eager about routines that can keep them busy and learn from organizational perfection that mums relate to. We love our school days and dread the long drawn holidays. We look forward to summer camps, clocked by the hour if possible. We are mums who can balance the love for our homes and work all in one breath, without being embarrassed about wanting that ‘time out’ now and then. We have our lunch meets that probably disturb the neighboring tables but our unconventional conversations always has me teary eyed.

We have all not known each other too long, but time has not limited our openness. I just realized I never mentioned their names through the post, so here it is. So the next time you are looking for the streak of Jamie’s madness, Smitha’s sweetness, Pavitha’s jokes, Gunjan’s exceptional organizational skills,  and my love for these crazy ladies, then drop by at our bus stop in the morning and be cheered up! Describing them separately I will not do justice, so its best I capture our mornings at the stop.

An Easter challenge

I was looking forward to another run.. so puma urban stampede it was! The ambience was a lot different than the other runs. More serious.. It was a competition and to be specific the national finale with runners from all across India. It was inspiring and heart gripping at the same time. Time seemed to be the essence. Scores were checked by better timings.

The visual of the ticking clock, the struggling participants some of whom were carried out in stretchers, the warning on a poor terrain and the aspirational timing for a 5k being 18 mins.. awarding the winner with a trip and run at Athens.. All were perfect ingredients to making me an anxious runner.

But as it began it was me, my music and the road. I may have been outpaced at few stretches but when you run for yourself nothing bothers you. The terrain did deter my timing unfortunately as the dug up roads with uneven stones scattered made it a dangerous path to tread. It was a learning for better runs ahead. The last 300 mtrs had me tempted to just pace it and stop at the last refill point but instead I decided to make that final run. I was over the moon to reach the finish point and see mum Nimmi Belliappa Arya Ganapathy my enthusiastic kids .. the T's and Aditya Nanjappa cheering with such enthusiasm as though I had actually topped the race. Having completed with an almost satisfactory timing I am content yet ambitious to do better next time. The photo ops, the medal and the heartfelt breakfast by nature s basket at the venue.. (part of our registration) was a lovely touch.

With minor aches to remind me of the lovely run... I look forward to my next run.
Happy Easter everyone!

Phenomenal Woman on Women's Day

Happy Women's Day to all women there whose strength never ceases to amaze me, whose heart's always impress and whose intelligence can fascinate. We are not here to be judged, we are here to speak the unspoken. We have the voice and the passion that believes in our philosophies. We can dare to dream and make them lasting memories. We can shadow and lead with grace yet feel on top of the world. We can see perfection in confusion. We can multitask roles in sheer brilliance. We choose to be part of relationships that complete our heart. We make homes. We set new benchmarks for our peers in careers cause we know the meaning of healthy competition. We can speak endlessly but all in sense. We can shop in calmness and feel rejuvenated. We have tears that keep us real in happy and sad times. We have the wings to circle the world and always have something new to learn at any stage of life. We have fears, phobias but we do our might to face it with confidence.

Put your hand up in the air
Whether you standing or sitting on a chair.
The brilliance of women is radiant like the sun,
Our perfection is never a pun.
So clap your hands and cheer away
As you celebrate Women’s Day.

We don't need a special day to celebrate womanhood.. so let's make today about love, safety, aspirations, values, accomplishments and honor. It's the life of a 'Phenomenal Woman' as reflected by Maya Angelou which I am quoting once again. Happy Women's Day!

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

I walk into a room,
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Now you understand,
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing,
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need for my care.
’Cause I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

The Maya Angelou birthday tribute!

Day 96…‪#‎100daysofhappiness‬ ‪#‎100happydays‬

“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” - Maya Angelou

Such fitting lines to capture the reason I write this post today on your birthday Munni. You gave me reason to smile, when darkness loomed, you gave me my quiet, when everyone believed that sound would be my best companion, you gave me your ears, for the times I chose to speak, you taught me with example, what it means to be believe in ourselves. Thank you and everyone at home in Pune for being my reason to always cherish Pune. Most of you know her, but if you don’t, a snapshot of what I have seen invaluable in her.

Her eyes smile and her heart rejoices. There is laughter, tears, anger but there is patience, calm and cheer too. She is a doting mother, loving daughter, adored sister; fun sister in law, dependable friend and somehow perfects all these roles. Not to forget these folks do justice to the relationship too.. so here's a huge shout with lots of love to Uncle, Pushpa Hegde aunty, Katya Balasubramanian, Bunty, Bungu and Sangeetha. I have known her forever, and gets better with every time I get to spend my time with her. It’s easy to chat, yet not be judged, we can laugh till late night and ponder over time gone by. She is a strong mother, yet emotional in the same breath. She is a role model to 2 wonderful angels and a friend to them too – a rare combination parents struggle to balance with. She balances her work and charities with such passion. She is vibrant, health conscious and the reason I took to running. It could be a party, art exhibition, shopping, or just fun travels, but her heart is happiest when Inika and Ahana are by her side.

She deeply admires my favorite writer too Maya Angelou, so today here’ s an excerpt from my favorite poem, to the ‘phenomenal woman’ I have seen in our very dear Rakhi, whom we fondly call Munni. With Women’s day round the corner, this couldn’t be quoted at a better time! Cheers to you Munni for a fabulous birthday and a wonderful life ahead. May you build memories to laugh, have moments to shed a tear and keep life real and yet be strong to look at life in the face with confidence! May you always have everyone who only loves you..to be by your side and may each day always count.

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I’m telling lies.
I say,
It’s in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

I walk into a room,
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It’s the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can’t touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can’t see.
I say,
It’s in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.
Now you understand,
Just why my head’s not bowed.
I don’t shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing,
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It’s in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need for my care.
’Cause I’m a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That’s me.

Run for Women's Day

Day 95.. ‪#‎100daysofhappiness‬ ‪#‎100happydays‬

Another day to remember in my 100 days...

Perfect Women's Day celebration..
With the woman who truly inspires n encourages me in every way.. my mommy Nimmi Belliappa...an early rewarding and thrilling 5k in 38 mins..followed by a hearty my kind of breakfast at Bet You Will Like It. Celebration indeed! Cheers completed with the excited welcome by the very supportive hubby Arya Ganapathy and my bundles of rejoice.. The Lil munchkins Tamara and Tanaaya who couldn't stop raving! Timing needs to improve but gradually smile emoticon
Don't let the pose fool you... I did not place no 1.. In the crowd that participated... but in my heart I felt like no 1.. so that counted more! So striking the pose was just a heart's response smile emoticon

This was my 3rd run and the feeling remains unchanged. .. A check on my health and it's progress is always on agenda. There is confidence yet there is nervousness, there is thrill yet there is painful exhaustion, there is determination yet there is caution.. guess that's the difference you experience in life pacing the journey from young and fearless to growing older with surprising woes. The heart believes in the passion, which often worries our loved ones. Nevertheless I am thrilled it's been a fantastic day.

Just like the placard says.. I ran for my world ...truly!

Hope you have a day as exciting as mine!

The Leap Year proposal

Day 94…#100daysofhappiness #100happydays

An ode to ‘Leap Day’ - to live and celebrate!

It’s fascinating to be able to cherish a leap day and have your 100 days in this leap year. What I write now, will be revisited 4 years later, so this makes this memory far more exciting. A tradition of the past, one that not many people know about, but a leap day was a day attributed to women once in 4 years (the last day of the shortest month in a leap year), to have the liberty to propose to a man they choose to woo. Marking my 10th anniversary this year, I find this tradition thrilling and hence choose to revive this tradition of proposing to the man who makes my heart dance with every little beat! Fairy tales are unreal and am, glad mine is not one. So on this day, February 29, 2016, cheers to ‘real marriages’ that are far more fun with adventure and learning, surprises that can make you teary eyed, moments that hold you for life, seeming imperfections that become romantic and acceptance to love in any shape or size.

As life gets more complex and decisions that may make us frown, I want to cherish and learn with every passing day, the meaning of companionship and friendship in marriage. I know there is no one else who can exemplify this better than you. We have our dreams, and we support each other. We take risks knowing that we are by each other’s side. We may get judged by everyone around us, but we know that our hearts are in the right place for the right reasons. As husband and wife, we stand united, for decades to come and in my silent prayer, for several lifetimes too. We may seem equally impossible to be around in one second, but difficult to be without too.

To our relationship, I bring madness, while you balance it with stability. I bring the vibrance, while you coat it with calmness. I bring the celebration, while you bring the meaning. I bring the words to express, while your hugs seem to impress. I dream of holidays and you are the wind beneath my wings. I bring smiles which you convert to endless happiness. After 10 years, we have grown together to love, respect and cherish. We didn’t make any vows on paper, but our prayers have inscribed them to eternity. We have redefined romance and quality time, and have found our minds opening the same pages of the book. We attempt surprises knowing the other has guessed our plan. We are a couple, but we know our space as individuals. We are parents, but we are friends first. We are not experts, and learning the ropes together with heaps of laughter. We have philosophies together and apart, which makes our journey exceptional and adventurous. We have had our share of challenges and testing times, but together it seemed like a breeze. I am sure we will have many more hardships in the future too, but in anticipation I look forward to making memories that will matter. I am glad we are not a perfect couple, but a couple that loves, accepts, cherishes, honors, jokes, annoys, makes mistakes and learns.

I have had my experiences, loved and laughed, hurt and cried, but with every moment I learnt more about what my perfect relationship would be. At a time when friends chose their own companions, I believed in the blessing of my family and the rationale of my mentor – my mother, who perfected my dreams of my ideal man! Grateful and with love, I smile in gratitude and pride, that the father to my kids, understands the worthiness of our entire family.

I can spin more words in perfecting this proposal, but I thought it was best captured in the words of Robert Bowning,
“Growing old with me!
The best is yet to be.
The last of life, for which the first was made.”
Till Eternity!

Neerja Bhanot.. bravery in the air!

Day 93.. #100daysofhappiness #100happydays

Tears were flowing uncontrollably and I almost thought that I would bawl. People around me were choking on emotion and I was sure that everyone was grateful it was dark and no one was visible. It was not just tears, but smiles too. It was not the filmy bollywood entertainment from any angle, but had a story that had to be told. Thankfully, it was a story that was narrated in perfection, had the impact that it deserved and left the audience, heart broken and motivated all in those couple of hours. While it inspired many even for a couple of seconds, it was a meaningful cinematic experience and a biopic that is lasting. My 100 days has tributes of people or experiences that are meaningful in my lifetime, so this definitely fits the criteria... a true story from my lifetime, when I was 6 years old. So here’s to Neerja – the brave heart who ruled hearts in silence.

This true story took place in 1986. At that time, I definitely have no recollection of this episode and perhaps wouldn’t have known about her, if not for this film. She is an award winner, recognized at her time, but seemingly had faded away. Unfortunately in our society, film stars, actors, sportspersons and such celebrities have a lifetime of recognition that many perhaps hardly deserve. Truth be told, I am a bollywood buff, so I look for drama, emotion, humor, love stories and more. There are perhaps many stories that have impressed me, but this story had the reflection of truth that was acknowledged, thought processes that was respected and courage that is mostly only spoken about. With the essence intact, the film has its share of stretches with subtle romance, the Rajesh Khanna dialogue saga and more. But even these stretches had more meaning that made the film noteworthy.  This film got me to read further on the real Neerja and her life. A lot of the story is narrated in accuracy which makes the true Neerja more intriguing. She was a model and an airhostess whose life could have been about fun, glamour and the charms of the world. But one instance of destiny, without thinking of herself, she chose to be the ‘light in the darkness.’ Battling terrorism has been a saga that has given rise to many heroes, that I can admire, but Neerja did it with a way that strung the right chord in my heart. Her act did not stop terrorism or start a revolution, but the lives she saved have left generations grateful for saving their legacies.

In the last few days, since the release of the film, I have come across many reviews raving the story, speaking on life lessons and its greatness. There have been parallels about the lessons we need to teach our daughters too. In agreement with all views, I am compelled to believe that teaching my daughters about honesty, bravery, selfless acts and respect, will probably be thebest philosophy I can hand down. In a society where, people hardly are willing to be selfless for their own family and friends, creating an expectation of selflessness for the country, makes it a hard bargain. It is a Defense oath, which is executed in sincerity, but when will it reach the masses. The mass ideology is centered on the same philosophy that Shabana Azmi advises her daughter, “When in a situation of trouble, run for your life and save it!” Neerja’s father imparted lessons that if practiced in our society, we will have more unity than what we credit our country for.

At just 23 years, Neerja reflected so many aspects that every woman should epitomize. Standing true to one’s belief and not bearing injustice in the name of society’s expectation of marriage is such a large lesson. Bravery in the most trying times without foregoing duty is crucial, which perhaps not everyone gets the opportunity to excel at such a large level but must be carried out in their own small ways. Lastly the ability to calm the mind even when the heart flutters in fear, will give you the confidence to look at trouble in the eyes and face it with assurance. It reinstates the importance of living a large life than a long one. It’s a strength that cannot be taught or preached, but a practice that will lead to perfection.

Sonam Kapoor did a great job as Neerja Bhanot and introduced me to this ‘woman of substance’, but I am in awe of the actual hero, as there is something in her eyes that can tell you a full story! I am privileged to have been told about Neerja Bhanot. I do hope you find your woman of valor who can inspire you in more ways than can be penned down!

So much to love.. Valentines Day!

Day 91…#100daysofhappiness #100happydays

The best words I have read have been by her, so starting my Valentines Day post is justified if I quote her. Maya Angelou, the American Author and Poet once said, “If you have only one smile to give, give it to the people you love.”  So on this day, I smile at the ones who love friendship, innocence, care, respect and honesty. I smile at the family I am born to, married to and friends who became family. So here’s to celebrations that matter for hearts that care!

With my history of celebration, naturally Valentines Day has always been a high. From the longest time I remember celebrating and wishing mom, because my honest belief is, since it’s the day of love, then wish everyone you love! After meeting Arya, I remember our first Valentines’ was before we got married. He had sensed my ‘paw’fection being so strong that he had gifted me our loving Fawn – a heartwarming basset hound. The concerned mum and in laws smiled, cherished and supported this gesture. Her eyes had everything her heart meant. To this day, it’s been 10 years and she lives in our hearts. I know for a fact that pets were not strongly voted for at that point of time, but the love they all showed in caring for that little wonder was an assurance of my perfect Valentines Day!

Every year its celebrations galore with the fancy meals, gifts, flowers and perhaps holidays. With every passing year, definitions have changed but sentiments remain the same. Over the years I would have probably raved about the diamond ring that was gifted to me or the words of assurance that keep my spirits high everyday. But ten years later and with two kids, we probably don’t believe that loving our loved ones is dependant on one day. Inspite of this sentiment, we will still find means to create an occasion and build up to this celebration. We will have priorities that may need us to be in different locations on this particular day, but our hearts ring the same music and we dance the same tunes. It is one of the best feelings in the world, knowing that your presence and absence both mean something to someone.

So reeling in this excitement to this date, we celebrate in simplicity but with little joys, the wonderful surprises through gifts that now reflect our personality than the value of your wallet, which makes it more valuable, knowing that you are understood. The meals are perhaps not elaborate but stolen moments from the hectic routine in that new restaurant that is perhaps a few feet away from home, making it precious with conversations that are real. In my philosophy of celebrations with all, our visits to the mall have as much thrill as any other. So for me its been a wonderful Valentines Week with Arya, Mum, cousins and friends!

On this day, when everyone is out planning their romantic do, I was thrilled to be sitting in a restaurant with my kids and see tables surrounding us with fathers and kids or mums and kids and no couples looking for any quiet time. In case you wondering, this is not a Mc Donald’s or a KFC, it’s a wonderful Chinese family restaurant where the celebrations were unanimous and the theme almost seemed planned. Each table smiled at the other in understanding and no one quirked with kids playing their own games or having a mad moment with their mums or dads at the table. In all its coincidence it seemed perfect! What made it extra special was me spending the Valentines lunch with my two lovely kids, who have a little of everyone I love – and that’s what made our celebration complete – It was an almost perfect family moment!

Over the years, my family circle always seems to grow, not just by blood or relatives but by the depth of friendships. It’s known that family is not always blood. It’s the people in your life, who want you in theirs, the ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile and who love you no matter what. So it’s a perfect day to wish everyone in this wonderful circle a fabulous Valentines Day and may every day be as memorable and loving as it’s meant to be on Feb 14.