Umang; The Joy of Living

Lucks!

2012-02-24T23:09:00.000+05:30

A friend, a sister, a teacher, a student always loving andrarely irritating is LUCKS. Her name is not LUCKS actually; it is given name toher by me. Today is her birthday and I thought of wishing her in a differentway. Here comes a big warm hug and a very special birthday wish for my specialLucks. Happy Birthday darling. You were always so close to heart and willremain so. The only difference is that I am not able to spend as much time asbefore with you. I had great time being with you for more than two years. Youwere always there for me in my ups and downs. You always had been my strength. Weshared secrets and had same opinion about life, love, family and friends. Itamuses me even today that how my sayings, feeling and opinions inspired youalways. I must agree that you were a good student and at the same time you weremy teacher. I learnt many lessons about life from you. Lucks I am getting tooemotional now, do not know what to write more about you. Even now, while I amtyping this I am smiling, thinking about you.

I always loved your oversmartness 'malai pahilai taha thiyo, khali tapailai jacheko' J you were too funnyLucks. And your stupid jokes, I enjoyed them a lot. When I had no reason tolaugh, you made me laugh. Your birdie voices always consoled me in need. I haveso many reasons to thank you Lucks. Thanks a lot. You had always been an angelin my life. Once again wish you a very happy birthday and all the happiness inyour life. Love you. I miss my Dairymilk.

God Bless!

Gardening in Winter

2012-02-13T16:28:00.002+05:30

In the hustle and bustle of urban life, your garden is the place where you have contact with nature and enjoy some quiet and peaceful time. Therefore, it deserves special attention in terms of dedication and constant maintenance, to make it a welcoming sanctuary in every season including winter.

Keeping the freshness and greenness of one’s garden in foggy, frosty,cold winter is a big challenge for anybody. Plants are also living things: they suffer the winter like any of us do. In the absence of proper care and nourishment, the gardens would be lifeless in winter. Many people ignore their garden in the winter. The feeling is that, once the flowers fade and the leaves die, there is nothing of interest in the garden. Nothing could be further from the truth. With all the work you do to keep your garden beautiful and attractive from spring to autumn, why let your garden die down in winter? Against the harsh backdrop of dew, fog and earth, you can plant a variety of plants that will add dimension to your garden. By selecting proper winter

plants (which are listed below) that produce flowers when most other plants are dormant, you can bring colour and interest into your garden even when the days are cold and gloomy. Winter is actually time to rake up all the leaves and make a compost bin so that they can be recycled into an excellent soil conditioner. It is also time to prune shrubs, trees and rose bushes which prepares plants to bloom and grow for next spring. It is about protecting your plants from the changes in the weather, cleaning up from the summer’s reward and winterizing gardening tools to ensure that they stay in good working condition. In winter, it is obvious that the cold temperature makes it very difficult to maintain and grow plants and flowers. But, this is not impossible if you prepare ahead of time during the previous seasons. With the first fall of temperature, it is necessary to begin the pruning of plants and new plantations have to be done before cold winter arrives.

Garden of Dreams, Kehsar Mahal, kathmandu

Plants and flowers for winter gardens

1. Foxglove flourishes in shade. Grow foxglove plant in partial shade in a well drained, acidic soil, rich in humus.

2. Snapdragon (baghmukhe) needs rich, well drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Grow it in full sun.

3. Nasturtium has showy, often intensely bright flowers and rounded leaves. Grow it in full sun to partial shade.

4. Pansy (putali phool) is one of the most popular and recognizable cool weather annuals. Pansy tolerates a variety of soils. General purpose fertilizer works well with it. Grow in partial shade.

5. Calendula (asarfi) is commonly called “Pot Marigold”. It blooms throughout the season. Grow in full sun or partial shade.

6. Sweet Alyssum flourishes in a loamy, well drained soil. It requires very little attention. Grow in full sun to partial sun.

7. English Ivy needs a well drained soil. It can act as ground cover and also can climb heights. Grow in part shade to full shade.

8. Weeping Winter Jasmine (jaii) is a fast grower. It tolerates almost any well drained soil and suffers no serious disease or insect pests. Grow it in sun or shade, but it flowers more heavily in sun.

9. Bulbs are also good for winter gardening. Among the most popular of the winter-flowering bulbs are the Daffodil, Crocus, Hyacinth and Tulip.

Tools and their uses in gardening

Sickle (hasiya)—it is used for many purposes. In gardening, it is used to cut grasses, branches, etc.

Pruning saw (karauti)—very useful for removing branches which are too thick for secateurs or loppers and when working in confined spaces.

Rakes (chande)—a leaf rake is the most efficient tool for clearing up a heavy drop of leaves.

Hoe (khurpi, kuto)—hoes are tools used to create furrows in the garden for planting; to break up hard, clumpy soil; and to remove weeds. Hoes come in many different sizes and weights; they also come in a wide variety of blade shapes.

Grass shear (kainchi)—grass shears are used to prune and give shape to shrubs.
Lawn mower—lawn mower is used to trim lawn grass. Secateurs (Pruner) (kainchi)—secateurs are used to spruce roses, shrubs, etc. for cleaner cut with less crushing of the stem.

Leaves collector (doko)—this can be of bamboo or plastic and is used to carry dried leaves.

Watering can (jhari)—watering cans in metal and plastics are available in the market. Their purpose is to water plants.

How to take care of gardening tools

1. Remove soil from tools after use.

2. Never store tools wet. Make sure they are dried completely before storing to prevent rusting and wood handle rot.

3. After use, wipe the metal parts of pruners, shears and saw with oil.

4. During the off season, sharpen your tools. You can use a whetstone for sharpening cutting tools. Also, a file can be used to remove nicks and smoothen the edges of your tools.

Things to do in garden in winter

1. Pull up all weeds and dried leaves and begin a compost bin. Composting enables you to recycle garden debris and provides excellent soil conditioners for the next planting season.

2. Cut back dry stems, remove diseased leaves from evergreen plants and discard into the trash. Do not use diseased leaves for composting; it may transfer disease to plants. Prune roses and remove stems that cross each other.

3. Shape other bushes and trees to desirable shapes to ensure blooming next spring. Cut off all dead wood from vines, trees, bamboos and shrubs. Check support for vines and strengthen them.

4. A brick paved path on the lawn adds charm and ambiance to the home garden. Be sure to scrub green algae off the bricks. And, keep the edges weed free and clean.

5. Aerate your soil well, pull weeds and improve your soil texture. Add organic matter such as leaf mold or compost to your soil. Adding ash from firewood is an excellent way to provide nutrients to your garden soil.

6. Clean your garden tools. Be sure to sharpen the edges, oil the necessary parts of the tools. If you keep your tools in good condition, your work in the spring will be easier. Make sure blades are wiped off and clean before storing them in a dry place.

Happy gardening and may you and your family enjoy long leisurely sun soaked days in your thriving winter garden!

originally published on healthy life

A letter to Black Rose

2012-01-19T16:37:00.004+05:30

A year come and goes by. We make friends, we apart from themwith passage of time, with changes in preferences. And I believe every friendwho comes to be part in our life, builds a special compartment for them in ourheart that nor it is collapsible neither replaceable. They stay there foreverin the form of sweet memories and remembrances. Sometimes they might be overshadowedbut not detached. Today I would like to confess that you were always in myheart also in all those days when I was not with you, when you were not therewith me, when I was happy and sad. I am trying to resume our custom of ‘expressionthrough letter’ your 16^th birthday onwards. :) Wish you wonderfuldays ahead and all the success and achievements you deserve. Happy Birthdaydarling.

As you know how poor I am in case of expressing my emotionsand feelings, I lack words as I have to say my feelings to people. Same thingis happening to me right now. I do not know how to say you that you have alwaysbrought so much fun, life and laughter in my life. You were my secret diary inmy college days, a single person to whom I used to pour all my sorrow,curiosity, laughter, life and happiness. You were the single person who used tomake me laugh every day. You are the one who knew my first crush. Yourstupidity and your intelligence both used to amused me. I still remember a daywhen you tore your newly stitched Salwar Suit slipping on the road in the mainmarket, I was worried thinking you might have got injured and was willing to laughseeing the big hole in your cloth. Hehehe…………..wow! I simply loved those days.We had such a beautiful days together. They always brings smile on my face.Thanks you for everything. Love you mydear. Take care.

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday dear ……..

Happy birthday to you………….

Goa Fun!

2011-12-30T19:44:00.001+05:30

Day 6 (2^nd October2011) Sunday

Early Morning Train to Goa

We had great days in Mumbai. Itwas a lifetime experience for me. And the next chapter was about to begin, Goa.Had heard a lot but never had chance to visit Goa earlier. I was excited a lot.We took early morning train to Goa from CST, Mumbai. I had thought that we would be able to seethe sea all day long to Goa because as per the map Goa is just at another endof Arabian Sea from Mumbai. Contrary to this we happened to see the mountainsand our train passed through numerous tunnels until we reached Goa. Trulysaying my excitement was slowly going down as the train was passing throughthose dark, dusty tunnels. I was

Colva Beach

not liking the tunnel experience, dark, dusty and smellytunnels. I must have felt such because we were travelling in Sleeper Class thistime. Windows remained open all the time. Here I would like to request onething to all passengers who travel by Train, not to throw waste and rubbishfrom the window. All of them were throwing the wastage, plastics, and leftoversfrom the windows. I think only two of us were putting everything in a plasticbag so that we could bin it afterwards. The railway tracks looked so polluteddue to all those plastic bags, wrappers and styrofoam plates.

Sand Cathedral

Finally we reached Madgaon, Goaat about 8:30 PM. It took us about 14 hours to reach there. We experienced thesame as in Kurla Railway Station in Madgaon, Railway Station, as we stepped outof the train, taxi drivers, auto drivers and bike taxi drivers swarmed uparound us. It was dark already and op of it was a completely unknown place, I was reluctant to trustanybody. We took some time to know about the rates and I was much concernedabout safety. Taxi Drivers had an office outside Railway Station, we paid for a taxiand took a bill from them. We finally got into a taxi and the taxi driver,Babban, promised us to take to some budget hotels with good services and room.We took his mobile number too, in case of any chaos that would be helpful tous.
He drove us to the South Goa,which was nearer to the station and brought us to Hotel Vhailenkuti. Room looked okay and the rate was reasonable, so we decided to stay there as it wasalready 10:00 PM by then. We changed and went out for food. Surprisingly most of theRestaurants were open in Goa, I felt as if people all over India sleep onlyafter midnight. We had good food in Panjabi Dhaba. Fish Curry and Rice werebest among all.

Day 7 (3^rd October2011) Monday

Colva Beach

We woke up early morning, headeddirectly to Beach, Colva Beach which was just 2 minutes walk from our hotel. Iwas spellbound as I saw the sea. It was a breathtaking view for me. I was in agreat hurry to get into the water. I jumped into it and was screaming everytime as tides push me back towards beach. We spent the whole day without caringsunburn. We built sand house, played hide and seek in water, collected stonesand shells, took photographs as much as we could, in total we enjoyed a lot. Itwas a lifetime experience for me. We returned back to hotel only after thebeach was closed. What I liked the most on the beach in Goa was that, there waslife guard looking after everyone on the beach, they were warning people ontime to time when the tides are high or if anyone enters the water beyond theterritory they had marked. We took shower, changed and wentfor dinner. This time a new restaurant, there were many restaurants nearbyColva Beach but the common food in all those restaurants was Fish Curry andRice. I liked it the most. They cooked the fish with coconut in it; it wasreally an awesome recipe. Each day Fish and Rice was made sure on our menu. ‘Fenny’is another thing you must not forget to taste in Goa. It is a local madealcohol either from Cashew Nuts or Coconut. Our Tour Guide told us that Fennyactually is also a medicine if taken in proper quantity each day. He also toldus that we were allowed take maximum three bottles of Fenny without paying taxto other states or Country. So we decide to take at least a bottle of Fenny withus.

Vagator Beach

Our Hotel Manager, a Nepali Guy,knocked at our door late night to ask us if we were interested to gosightseeing the other day on Hotel Bus with other customers in hotel. We agreedimmediately and paid 750 IC each which included visits to- Anjuna Beach,Vagator Beach, Callangute Beach, deep sea Dolphin watch in Sequrim Beach andfinally a cruise on Mandovi River. We were staying in South Goa, very peacefuland very beautiful colva beach with less people, and next day we were going toNorth Goa.

Day 8 (4^th October2011) Tuesday

Callangute Beach

We woke up early morning, hadbreakfast and reserve the best seat on the bus on which we were supposed tovisit North Goa. Slowly other people came and occupied other seats. The driverof the bus was also the travel guide for that day. He introduced himself asAnil and was also instructing us about the rules and regulations to follow inGoa as a tourist as he was driving bus. He told us that police in Goa were verystrict, unlike police from other states. North Goa was crowded in comparison toSouth Goa, though very clean and tidy. They had fine roads and we saw manyindustries on the way to Goa. Goa is not just a tourist area but also there aremany big industries. It is the smallest and richest state in India. It isfamous for beaches, mixed custom of Hinduism and Christianity, Cashew Nuts andFenny.

Anjuna Beach

At first we were taken to AnjunaBeach, this beach was different than the Colva Beach in South Goa. It was rockyand had red sand. After Anjuna we went to Vagator Beach. Vagator beach had manyattractions like motor boat, parachute, water skiing etc. But we were warned byAnil not to participate in card game where those people use black magic to loottourists. Then we headed towards Callangute Beach. We came to know that thisbeach was said to be the queen among all the beaches in Goa. It was much morecrowded than any other beach and I found waves much more notorious there. Iloved Colva Beach among all other beaches I had been to in Goa.

Deep Sea Dolphin Visit

We then headed Sequrim for deepsea sailing to see Dolphins. We took our seat into the motor boat whichaccommodated other 8 people along with us. We put on life jacket and thejourney began. We happened to see a mansion of a diamond merchant from the sea,which faced the huge Arabian Sea to the front. It was elongated from the bottomof the hill to the top and could be accessed into the house on a motor boatunder the hill. After about 1 hour sailing we happened to see a family ofDolphin.
We hurriedly took some snaps. Then the last destination of that daywas a river cruise. The cruise was on the Mondavi River in Panjim. We spentthat evening on the top of the ship enjoying the sunset and Portuguesemusic. It was really fun when I dancedupon a call of MC of the cultural program in the cruise. We returned back tohotel by 8:30 PM. We changed and went out for dinner. Goa looked beautiful atnight with all those lights and shops targeted for tourists, somehow similar toThamel of Kathmandu.

Day 9 (5^th October2011) Wednesday

Cruise on Mandovi River

Mahalaxmi Temple

Next day we decided to spent dayon Colva Beach and Madgoan. We also wanted to visit some churches nearby onthat day. Actually I wanted to see Shanta Durga Temple on that day, which wasbuilt much before Portuguese invaded Goa and was destroyed by them and wasrenovated when they left Goa. But our hotel manager discouraged us to go therealone. So we decided to visit nearby Mahalaxmi Temple in the evening. First wedecided to go Madgoan. We took local bus from Colva, which is the most usedvehicle by Goan People for day to day up and down. We roamed for some hours aswe did not know where to go and what to do in Madgoan. Then we returned Colvaand went to beach. We returned to hotel after the beach was closed and thenwent to the Mahalaxmi Temple after shower. We bowed our head and bought twosarees for our mothers from Mahalaxmi Temples. Actually those sarees areoffered to Mata Laxmi by devotees and then the trust taking care of templewould sell them in very cheap price, the money went to the trust eventually. As it was Mahanawami it was worth visitingMahalaxmi Temple on that day. We had to catch the early morning train next day.So we packed our languages and went for sleep early.

Day 10 (6^th October2011) Thursday

We standing on Sea Shells

Auto Driver came to pick up usfrom the hotel to the railway station at 5:00 AM. We had to catch train at 6:30am and it was about 35 minutes ride from our hotel to the station. Auto took IC Rs. 250 from us. We reached therebefore time. We were worried since last night thinking that if the trainarrived late in Madgoan Station we could miss train to Gorakhpur from KurlaStation which was timed for 11:30 PM the same day. Luckily the train was just15 minutes late. We were very happy that the train was not that late. We wentin and took our seats. We reached Kurla Station on time. We had 4 hours time tospend before our train would arrive on the station. This time our train wasKushinagar Express. We waited in the waiting room and enjoyed tea and otherfood available in the station. At 11:30 PM we boarded train. Our travel agent Mr.Mahesh had booked really nice seats for us. Each time we had first birthticket, which allowed us to enjoy the sceneries from window. This time a Muslimfamily accompanied us, an old lady and her two grand daughter and son. We haddinner and slept on our berth.

Day 11, 12 (7^th &8^th October 2011) Friday & Saturday

Classical Portuguese Dance

Early morning we wake up withsound ‘garam garam chaye‘of railwaystaff. We were in nearby Bhopal when we opened our eyes. We had alaichi teafrom him and ordered for breakfast, bread and omelet. We had to spend a wholeday and night in same compartment then. We reached Lucknow at around 8 PM. Agentleman entered our compartment, we had introductions and he told us that healso had been to Nepal many times for business. He knew about many places inKathmandu. From him we came to know that a place called Orai on the way toGorakhpur was very famous for its Gulabjamun. It was so famous that even trainsstopped there for 2 minutes each time so that passengers could enjoy the taste.
We decided to purchase some. Orai arrived, we hurriedly got off the train andbought some and got into the train. It was hot and served in mud bowl; it wasgiving out a very pure and delicious scent. We could not resist long and testedone each, it was amazingly tasty. Ournext stop was Kanpur, the train reached Kanpur around 12 AM, and the gentlemangot off the train. He had told before bed that every Saturday night he wouldtake train to Kanpur to meet his wife who worked in Kanpur as a lecturer in acollege. Actually railway in India is a boon left to them by British. It is thebiggest organization employing largest number of people in the world. Finally wereached Gorakhpur, our destination at 8:30 AM. We took car to Nepal border anda direct bus to Hetauda, to get tika and blessings from our elders as Dashainwas not over yet.

It was a wonderful stay in Goa.Fun fun and fun……………. Just loved it. :-)

Useful household cleaning tips

2011-12-28T14:16:00.001+05:30

To Remove:

1. Red wine stains from cloth

a. Gently squeeze it in good club soda water

b. Wash as normal with soap and water

2. Candle wax from carpet or tablecloth

a. Scrape as much wax off as possible

b. Place the blotting paper on top of the hardened wax

c. Place the hot iron on top of it

d. Move the blotting paper around to absorb the melting wax

e. Carry on until it all has been removed, but be careful notto burn the fabric underneath

3. Chewing gum

a. Put ice cubes into a plastic bag

b. Place it on top the chewing gum to harden it

c. Slowly scrape the gum off

4. Rust stain from cloth

a. Rub lemon juice into fabric

b. Sprinkle salt on top

c. Leave to rest for at least an hour

d. Rinse and wash in normal way

5. Coffee stain from cloth

a. Dab the stain with glycerin

b. Rinse in cold water

c. Wash the normal way

6. Ketchup from carpet

a. Wipe up the excess ketchup

b. Rub glycerin into the stain

c. Sponge with warm water

d. Use tissue paper to remove excess water from carpet

7. Stains from copper utensils

a. Add lime juice to salt

b. Rub the mixture on the stain

c. Wash with clean water

d. Dry the utensils with cotton cloth, copper will shine likenew

8. Bad smell from room

a. Soak a cotton ball with few drops of good smelling oil oryour favourite scent

b. Put it into vacuum bag before you vacuum

c. When you are done with vacuum a beautiful scent has beenadded to your room

9. Dust from artificial flowers

a. Pour somesalt into a paper bag

b. Put theflowers upside down the bag

c. Hold tight inthe opening of the bag and shake energetically

d. Salt willabsorb all the dust and dirt and leave your artificial flowers looking like new

10. Burnt on foodfrom skillet

a. Add a drop ortwo of dish soap and enough water to cover bottom of pan

b. Bring to boilon stovetop

c. Burnt will beeasily peeled off

11. Water stains and dirt from clay candle of water filter

a. Take some salt in your hand

b. Scrub it for some minutes

c. Wash the candle with clean water

12. Stains and add shine to windows pane or mirror

a. Add a drop of vinegar in to warm water

b. Wash the glass or mirror with the solution

c. Wipe with crunched up newspaper until dry and shiny. Theywill sparkle like new

13. Hair dye stains from skin

a. Soak cotton with dettol-antiseptic liquid

b. Gently rub it on the stain

14. Turmeric stains from cloth

a. Put talcum powder as soon as you get the stain

b. Wash normal with soap and water

My Birthday

2011-11-26T10:43:00.000+05:30

Birthday Cake

It is my birthday today. 26^th November, 2011 counted on my fingers how old is I now? And observed myself on themirror if I looked old. No! not even a trace of oldage. I felt happy. Last night myhusband did not let me sleep, he wanted me to wake up till 12 AM so that hebecomes the first one to wish me on my birthday. I was on half sleep when hewoke me up and wished ‘happy birthday’. He had brought Cadbury Gift Packet anda beautiful swal for me. A surprise gift, Wow!

I wake up early morning and signinto my FB, my friends had already started posting om my timeline. This makesme very happy to receive birthday wishes from all my friends and dear ones. Iwent to Pashupati Nath Temple with my husband to thank him for his gracetowards me and my family. Whenever I go to temple I always thank God for hisblessings, grace and kindness, he has given happiness in my life withoutasking, strength whenever needed and wisdom to tackle difficult situations.

Some people were donating bloodunder a shade outside temple. I thought of donating too, but my husband told methat they does not seemed that organized and did not allow me to. But hepromised me that he will let me some other time.

Many old women were sittingoutside on the sun; they all were from pashupati Biddharshram. I thought to distributesweets among them. I bought Jerry from nearby shop and distributed among them.They were so happy to get it that each of them blessed me. May be that was whatI looking for. I felt so satisfied and happy to talk to them and receive theirblessings.

Then we went to Sankata Temple. I litbutter lamp there and went Putalisadak to meet some of my dear ones. After anhour we were back to our home. My husband made rice pudding for dinner.

Here I would like to thank all myfamily and friends for their wishes for me. Each word is precious for me. Thankyou for your love and care towards me. Love you all.

It was a perfect birthdaycelebration for me.

God Bless!

Mumbai Diary

2011-11-09T21:18:00.001+05:30

Day 1 (27-9-2011), Tuesday

It was 4:30 PM; hurriedly I left office and headed towards home with my husband, where we had our back pack ready by last night. Me and my husband ate something took our back pack and left for Bhairahawa, from where we were supposed to take rikshaw upto Sunaulai then 3 hours car ride and finally to Gorakhpur Station. Though it was a hectic schedule, I was excited about the train journey which I was about to experience the following day for the first time in my life. We boarded the bus from Gongabu bus station at about 8:30PM; it took about 12 hours to reach Bhairahawa bus station.

Day 2 (28-9-2011), Wednesday

It was Ghatasthapana day, which did not lure us much, which would have if we were back at home. We took rikshaw up to Sunauli and crossed the NEPAL-INDIA border on foot. Had thought many evils about border security guards but I did not experience any such incidents nor I saw any traces of fear and insecurity.

We hired a TATA Indica upto Gorakhpur Railway Station. It took us about 3 and ½ an hour to reach Gorakhpur. We happened to meet two interesting characters on the way to Gorakhpur. A man and his wife, man worked for Nepal Police and was sending his wife on working visa to Saudi Arabia through illegal way from India.

Gorakhpur Junction

Finally we were in Gorakhpur Railway Station; it is about 2:30 PM, Indian Time. Since we had tickets of AC compartments, we were entitled to enjoy facilities of AC waiting rooms. We took shower, changed clothes and waited for our train which would leave station on 9:30 PM. As we waited for the train we found that many Nepalese actually visit India in holiday season. We felt good to see Nepali faces in foreign land.

Our train arrived the station, we walked up to our compartment i.e., AC Tire 3, B2-25, 28. I must say Train was so neat and clean. I liked it inside train. Luckily two Nepali faces entered our compartment. Two ladies-I felt nice to have companion from my country. So did him. But contrary to our expectation, the taller looking lady was rude and from her telephone conversation I doubt if she was taking the other lady, Kanchi (she screamed at her saying this name) to Mumbai to the red light area. I was not sure but I sensed smell of human-trafficking there. She did not allow Kanchi to interact with us, nor did she allow her to stay in her berth without curtain on. So we could not find much about them.

The railway staff brought dinner for us, which we ordered for half an hour earlier, we ate dinner and slept. As we woke up early morning at 5 AM, we were on a bridge over the GANGA, in Kanpur. We bowed our head to Ganga.

Day 3 (29-9-2011), Thursday

Bhel Puri

The two people, who boarded last night on our compartment, got off in Kanpur. Now we were only two in the whole compartment. I liked it very much. We put the curtain on; it felt that only two of us were in the whole world. There was nothing to worry about we kept on trying each and every food the train staff would bring- Bhel Puri, Bada Paun, Dal Bada, Biryani, Tea, Coffee, Sweet Corn, Cucumber everything. Since we were only in our compartment, we tried different poses for photo shoot there. We tried sleeping on each berth. We danced and sang, we played Baghchal, Marriage (card). Most of the time, we enjoyed outside views while other passengers were sleeping or reading newspapers. After all it was our first time in a train.

Enjoying outside view from Train

Day 4 (30-9-2011), Friday

Mumbai in early morning

Our Train arrived Lokmanya Tilak Station, Kurla, Mumbai at early morning 4:30 AM. It was still dark. As we took our luggage and got off the train, the taxi drivers/auto drivers swarmed up around us. This was what I did not like the most. We tried to ignore them and head towards the station enquiry room. But they were determined not to leave us like that; one of them followed us for about an hour. Finally we found some Nepalese Guys-Amit and his friends queuing up to get ticket of Local train up to CST. We requested him to buy two tickets for us as well, he was really a great help for us. I found Mumbai Local train so punctual and disciplined unlike what I used to see in Bollywood movies. I also found people in Mumbai friendly and helpful. And was compelled to think that we always had been misinterpreted about India and Indian People, not all of them are bad. And I believe Bollywood movies are also partly credited to develop such feelings on us. We reached CST along with them.

Gateway of India, Mumbai

Mumbai- I found it huge, rich and lavish. It was early morning about 6:30AM; Mumbai had not waked up yet, when we reached Central Mumbai. We decided to go to see the Gateway of India directly. The walking distance from CST to the Gateway of India was just 30 minutes. The Gateway of India and The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel face each other on the bank of the huge Arabian Sea. The Gateway of India was built on 1911 and The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel was built 21 years before the Gateway of India. Colourful ferries in Arabian Sea in the early morning looked beautiful.

Hotel Taj and Gateway of India

We stayed about three hours there and set out in search of the hotel. Though we had already booked a hotel in Grand Road, someone suggested us not to stay in that area. So we tried to find out a budget hotel in Colaba. We roamed for about an hour and finally found a hotel behind The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. And luckily the manager was Nepali. I was very happy to found a hotel in such a lovely place. Sea on two minutes walking distance, it was simply wow!

Street which took to our hotel

We got in to our room. It was old British styled room. We did not waste time, took shower, changed cloth and hurriedly went out; again we went to The Gateway and took ferry (INR 130 each) to Elephanta Cave. It was about one hour ride; we reached a small Island with Rock Mountains. Those mountains are carved into huge Hindu Gods and Goddesses. It was also registered into UNESCO’s World heritage Site. To enter the heritage site, visitors need to take ticket, INR 10 for Indian and INR 250 for Foreigners. Since we could speak Hindi fluently, I asked for two tickets in Hindi and paid just INR 20. We saved INR 480 in this way. The photography was prohibited by Indian Navy on the way to Elephanta Cave, but we stealthily took some photos from the ferry.

Elephanta Cave

As we got back from Elephanta Cave, we walked around the city. Nariwal Paani did wonders in such a hot day. We went MC Donald’s for lunch. I must say it was so crowded by teen Mubiakars. We walked around the city, did some shopping, had dinner in a fine restaurant. Overall it was a great experience in Mumbai. Mumbai added a very memorable day in my life. I loved the Mumbai must at night. I must say ‘Mumbai never sleeps’. It is so lively at night, people meet friends, go for shopping, get together, they walk on street so care freely at night, which is very contrary to our Kathmandu. One more day on Mumbai was yet to come.

Mumbai @ night

Day 5 (01-10-2011), Saturday

'Jalsa', Mr. Bachchan's house

My only wish in Mumbai was to see “Jalsa” and “Mannat”. So early morning we took a Local Train from CST to Juhu. We were not sure about the distance from railway station to Juhu Beach, because we decided to go to Juhu Beach first and then to Mr. Bachchan’s House. We reached Juhu Beach after 1 hour walk. Juhu Beach could not attract me much, it was polluted and the water was stinking. I entered the sea reluctantly. We took a photo from a local photographer who carry camera and printers and provide you photo instantly. We tried some Indian dishes in Juhu Beach. And not to forget a rash-gola, which I will never try in my life again. We asked the direction of ‘Jalsa’ with a vendor and again kept on walking. We found it, two guards were there, I thought I need to take permission before a take a snap in-front of Mr. Bachchan’s House. We took permission and took some quick snaps infront of ‘Jalsa’. I was expecting if I could see just a glance of Bachhans.

'Mannat' King Khan's House

My next wish was ‘Mannat’. So we took a bus to Bandra from Juhu Bus Stand. We reached Bandra, and then we took another bus to Bandra Stand from Bandra. Bus fare in India is cheap and very systematic. And there are reserved seats for ladies, elderly and disables. There are certain rules to follow while you travel in bus and Mubiakars follow that. I liked such a disciplined way of bus and passengers.

We reached Bandra Stand, and Mr. King Khan’s House stood just infront of us as I got off the bus. Written ‘Mannat, Lands End’ on the wall. Many fans were already there. They were taking snaps infront of the house. I thought to talk to SRK’s guard first. I peek inside from the window of Guard’s House. There were SRK’s posters all over the wall. I talked to his guard and told him to convey my message to SRK. The guard was very friendly, he suggested me to write a letter to him and he would give that to SRK. I was very happy just to think that SRK would read my letter, I wrote a letter and gave it to him. We found that nearby there was a Bandra Fort. We went there; found that it might be the most popular dating spot in Mumbai. We saw couple everywhere. Busy and lost in their world. We enjoyed the scenery and the sea.

Bandra Fort

We took bus back to Bandra and a train to Mahalaxmi Station. We were now heading towards Haji Ali Darga and Mahalaxmi Temple. It was about 1 hour walk from railway station to Haji Ali. We bowed our head from outside to Haji Ali Darga and move towards Mahalaxmi Temple. It was 7 PM when we took back bus to Colaba, where our hotel was. We went to hotel, freshened up and came out for dinner. As I explained earlier, Mumbai was glittering at night. I simply loved it. I almost fell in love with Mumbai. Mumbai is best for street shoppers. You can find everything on the street, clothes, shoes, bags, jewelleries and accessories, souvenirs etc.

Street Market in Colaba

I found Chinese products were easily available as in Kathmandu. We had dinner and for the last time we went to watch the Gateway of India, The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. They seemed beautiful at night on the electric light.

This was the last evening in Mumbai, next day we had early morning train to GOA. We talked to ourselves that the two days and two nights were not enough to explore this beautiful city. We missed many things, but also were happy because we lived two beautiful days in Mumbai. Thanks Mumbai for such a memorable days in our lives.

Made for Each Other

2011-09-13T10:33:00.001+05:30

umang & kamal

As our second marriage anniversary is approaching, I am thinking if my life has been changed after marriage. Not much I must say. I used to be independent, care free, spontaneous girl and I feel same after 2 years of marriage. I married the same guy whom I loved so much. We got married after three years of our love affair. It was adventurous and most beautiful part of my life.

Though we were class mates, I never happened to care about him when we were in school. I hardly noticed him or care for him in class. He was like other 70 students for me in my class. But he always tells me that he was in love with me since school days, though he never tried to reveal it then. We appeared SLC, school life ended. We moved ahead in life. I joined +2 in Hetauda, made new friends. Never cared where is he, what college and faculty he joined? I did my +2 and Bachelors from same college. I heard from some of my school friends that he was then a Journalist and worked for Communication Corner and he read news every morning and evening. Since he was my class mate, I had some kind of hidden desire to listen to him reading news. After several days I happened to listen to him. I found his voice so matured, so clear and perfect for a news reader. I must say I loved his voice.

I came to Kathmandu for my further studies. I joined college. Many good and bad things happened to me in between but the best ever thing happened to me was our meeting. We met after 6 years in New Year’s EVE, 2006. He was a changed man than what he used to be in school days. And I think so was I. We started meeting quite often. I just loved to be with him and listen to him. I do not know who proposed first but we were in love already. God made us for each other. Otherwise I would not have met him after 6 years suddenly in a new year’s eve.

It was difficult but we convinced our parents and got married after 3 years of affair. And see now it is already 2 years and we are so happy together. I do not know how but my love for him increases day by day. I feel he is the one who is there for me to protect me, to support me, my hero and my macho man. I feel so secure and so protected. And sometimes he is like my baby, who makes me laugh with funny things and childish behaviour. I am experiencing a life of two people at the same time: wife and mother.

Thank you god for blessing me with such a beautiful life.

Happy Friendship Day

2011-08-07T14:48:00.002+05:30

August 7, first Sunday of August, Friendship Day. As I am aware that UN has declared July 30 as an International Freindship Day, but also there is strong attachment with August as a Friendship Month, 1^st week as Friendship Week and First Sunday as Friendship Day. I do not want to replace this day with any other date.

Today I am being little bit nostalgic. I am getting flashback of my school and college days frequently. I had many friends then, it’s not that they are all gone but also we hardly happened to see each other. And top of it I find it rather awkward to share everything with them as I used to do back in college days. May be it’s because I have found a bestest among the best friend in my husband itself.

Today I posted a status in my FB addressing all my friends, the post was- Some friends are very far away, some are still in touch. Some pretends that they do not care for me anymore and some always make sure that I am being informed that how much they love me. Today is the day I must let my friends know that I love you all as usual; I care for you and it hurts when you try to ignore me. Happy Friendship day to all my friends. Surprisingly I got many ‘likes’ and some comments. And also a long mail from one of my very close friend. I am feeling good and also felt like to browse through all those old mails in my inbox. I did check some, started from the oldest one. As I was going through the texts I recalled all those moments which I lived through. I smiled somewhere and I was sad somewhere. It is a very good experience. I would suggest you to try it once. You will feel awesome.

Stay happy…………. Keep smiling……………

God Bless

How well do you know animals?

2011-07-31T16:09:00.001+05:30

1. Which is the only animal born with horns?
a. Cow
b. Rhino
c. Giraffe

2. Which is the only bird that can also fly backwards?
a. Kingfisher
b. Sparrow
c. Hummingbird

3. Which is the only mammal with hair on the soles of its feet?
a. Ape
b. Gorilla
c. Polar bear

4. Which is the only mammal that cannot walk backward?
a. Elephant
b. Donkey
c. Kangaroo

5. Which are the only 2 animals that can see behind it without turning its head?
a. Rabbit & pigeon
b. Rat & parrot
c. Rabbit & parrot

6. Which is the world's most destructive mammal, other than man?
a. Squirrel
b. Rat
c. Monkey

7. Which fish has the shortest memory span?
a. Sailfish
b. Goldfish
c. Starfish

8. Which animal has no vocal chord?
a. Zebra
b. Giraffe
c. Horse

9. Which of these has its eye bigger than its brain?
a. Owl
b. Ostrich
c. Frog

10. Which of these has four noses?
a. Butterfly
b. Snail
c. Leech

11. How many teeth does a mosquito have?
a. 47
b. 1
c. None

12. What is a rhinoceros's horn made of?
a. Hair
b. Bone
c. Muscle

13. How many eyelids does a camel have?
a. 3
b. 2
c. 0

14. Which domestic animal's eyes have rectangular pupils?
a. Goat

b. Cow

c. Horse

15. Milk of which mammal does not curdle?
a. Camel
b. Yak
c. Goat

16. Which bird lays egg only in the morning?
a. Cuckoo
b. Hen
c. Duck

17. Which animal laughs like a human being?
a. Horse
b. Donkey
c. Hyena

18. Which animal cries like a human being?
a. Elephant
b. Cat
c. Bear

19. Which is the largest flesh eating mammal on land?
a. Siberian tiger
b. African lion
c. Polar bear

20. What animal cannot stick out its tongue?
a. Hippo
b. Rhino
c. Crocodile

Answers:
1 - 5 all c
6 - 10 all b
11 - 15 all a
16 - 20 all c

Food Quiz

2011-07-12T20:33:00.001+05:30

Eating is perhaps the most popular pastime in the world among all races of the world. Yet, there are some things about food that many might not be aware of. This quiz could surprise you besides of course, giving you new enlightenment.

1. Which is the most popular spice in the world?
a. Black pepper
b. Cumin powder
c. Coriander powder

2. Which is the hottest chilly among these three?
a. Bhut Jolokia
b. Infinity chilly
c. Mexican Naga

3. Which fruit is not good for pregnant women?
a. Papaya
b. Guava
c. Pineapple

4. The only vegetable that contains Vitamin B12 is?
a. Mushroom
b. Broccoli
c. Pumpkin

5. Which is the only non-animal food source of Vitamin D?
a. Mushroom
b. Cauliflower
c. Broccoli

6. Which fruit has a higher quantity of fibre than any other dried or fresh fruit?
a. Avocado
b. Figs
c. Bel

7. Which is the only fruit with seeds on the outside?
a. Blackberry (Kimbu)
b. Strawberry (Bhuin Ainselu)
c. Raspberry (Ainselu)

8. Which was the first vegetable grown in outer space?
a. Onion
b. Potato
c. Turnip

9. Which is the only food that does not spoil?
a. Butter
b. Honey
c. Jam

10. Which is the most expensive cooking spice?
a. Astoefida (Hing)
b. Saffron
c. Vanilla

11. Which spice is known as "the spice of paradise"?

a.Saffron
b. Vanilla
c. Cardamom

12. Which vegetable is also referred as "apple of love"?
a. Sweet Potato
b. Red Cabbage
c. Tomato

13. Which fruit does not gain flavor with cooking?
a. Pear
b. Apple
c. Peach

14. Which of these are buds picked before they bloom into flower?
a. Sesame
b. Pepper
c. Clove

15. Which is the fourth most important non cereal food crop in the world?
a. Cauliflower
b. Onion
c. Potato

Correct answers:
Questions 1 - 5 a
Questions 6 - 10 b
Questions 11 - 15 c

Comforting The Elderly

2011-07-07T21:14:00.002+05:30

If they do not have any source of income (like pension, old age allowances) give them some money on a regular basis, so that they can spend for their day-to-day small needs. Even if the allowance is small, it doesn’t matter because it will mean a lot to them and make them feel more independent.

Last month I went to Briddhashram at Pasupatinath and talked with some octogenarians abandoned by their family. A significant number of elderly people told me that their sons and daughter-in-laws showed them the way to the elderly home just because they had been ‘uncomfortable’ to their children. At the most care and love demanding age, those old folks are spending very lonely, boring and nostalgic days in an old age home. All the beautiful moments shared with their loved ones have been lost.

On the other hand there is a person like Dil Shobha Shrestha who has provided shelter for 28 elderly women in her own residence in Soaltee Mode, Rabi Bhawan. She has been running the old age home for single handedly for about 12 years now. She does everything in her capacity to make her boarders’ life easy and simple. Her daily tasks include feeding, cleaning and clothing them, looking after their basic needs, doctor’s visits etc. Most of the women were rescued by Shrestha herself. They had been in pathetic condition before and have found sanctuary at her ‘Aama ko Ghar’. She is providing shelter and a peaceful life to all those elderly women despite having no blood relationship with them at all.

Are we doing enough?
After talking with Dil Shobha Shrestha, only one question arises in my mind that, are we doing enough for our elderly family members?

They nurtured us when we were kids. They took care of each and every need of ours and made sure that we were always happy and smiling. They helped us evolve. They taught us to differentiate between right and wrong. But, often when they grow old, we forget to care for them. Here, I am talking about the elderly who are the foundations of any family. When they grow old, our roles are reversed as it is time for us to care for them and make them feel happy and needed.

According to psychotherapist Nirakar Man Shrestha, MD, it is very hard for the elderly to accept the feeling that they are no more bread earners of the family. The feeling of guilt and burden slowly drags them towards the darkness of depression. They start feeling lonely and discarded and unlike the youth and the children, they pass through immense psychological changes. For example, they find their children have grown up enough to take decisions on their own. Once living together in a joint family, suddenly the two of them are left alone at home; they have property but no dear ones to look after them. The lack of family, social and financial support is the major cause for anxiety in elderly people. Moreover, dementia is common among the elderly, due to this they forget things more often. They might feel lost and useless. Here emerges our role to make them feel that they are still part of your life. Their advice is necessary in each family matter.

Listed alongside are some things we might be able to implement in our day to day lives to make our elderly loved ones feel gifted.

As we know, each of us has to pass through this age someday, sooner or later, why should we not start the practice of making this phase of life beautiful for everyone? If we start it from now, our children will learn from us. Taking care of your elderly today is preparing a safe elderly passage for yourself. It is actually a cycle of life – ‘you get as good as you give.’

Six must do’s

Treat your elderly with respect and dignity. If he/she is capable, allow them to make decisions about their life. Be diplomatic while talking to them. Don’t hurt them with your words. Do not impose things/rules on them.

Invest in their health. Be proactive, taking them for regular medical exams. Never wait for them to ask you. Book periodic appointments in advance with the doctor for a whole year.

If they do not have any source of income (like pension, old age allowances) give them some money on a regular basis, so that they can spend for their day to day small needs. Even if the allowance is small, it doesn’t matter because it will mean a lot to them and make them feel more independent.

If they are not staying with you, call or visit them on a regular basis. Do not forget to wish them on their birthdays and anniversaries. If possible, organize family gatherings and present them on these occasions.

Always encourage them, praise them for their desire to live and make them feel needed and that they are still an invaluable part of your life.

Never complain, or make your elderly loved ones feel what you are doing for them is a burden. Make them feel that you enjoy doing things for them.

Six should do’s

Get your family involved with your elderly ones. Allow your children to visit with them. Keep them involved in your children’s life and education. Ask for their help and give them suitable chores in your home.

Teach your children to behave with the elderly in a respectful and polite way. The courteous behavior of your children makes them overjoyed.

While going out, do not leave them alone at home. If they are not capable of cooking and cleaning, hire a maid who will provide company and help them with their household chores.

The elderly are not liabilities but assets. We can take advantage of the experience and knowledge they have earned in their lifetime (parera janeko kura). This makes them feel that they are contributing to family and society.

Volunteer to do special things for them. Eg: take them shopping or out to dinner or request their help in gardening flowers or vegetables.

Take your elderly loved one to visit other elderly relatives occasionally. They feel good to see and meet people of the same generation.

Six can do’s

Listen to what they have to say. This helps you to find out their state of mind. It is said that a man becomes a child two times in his lifetime, first when he is young and second when he is old. So, treat the elderly like you treat your child; be as tolerant and forgiving of small faults.

Keep them updated about current events. Read to them from newspapers. Let them watch their interesting shows on television. This makes them feel that they are still a part of the world.

Discover a favorite hobby of the elderly and help them fulfill the hobby. Encourage them to cultivate a hobby if they do not have any, like cooking, painting, gardening, playing indoor games, knitting, reading, writing, etc.

Attend holy places with them and advice them to get involved in the satsang or holy company. Arrange pilgrimage trips for them.

Encourage the elderly to participate in social communities organized for senior citizens. This keeps their body and mind active.

Record special moments shared with your elderly loved ones in a camera, tape recorder or just jot notes down. They might have stories of their times, along with cherished memories, which we may find very interesting.

Originally published in Healthy Life

life keeps on moving

2011-06-17T23:09:00.001+05:30

Hi! Friends, I was lost somewhere in some other world for so many months and finally here I m today at 11:26 Pm (17 june 2011) willing to post something in my blog. Hope you have not forgotten me. I really hope so. So many things happened in between, I got married, I changed my job, I joined new faculty etc. etc. In all this I happened to meet many new people and lost some dear ones. Some I cannot get back if also I want to, my grandmother and grandfather (miss you and love you always) and some may be does not like to come back to me  sad is not it? Anyways this is called life. I think I have learned some very useful lessons of life in this part of my life. I feel like I have become mature than before and I can tackle situations as per their demands.
I believe you guys also went through many changes in between. Many good and bad might have happened, but life doesn’t wait or rest for anything. It keeps on moving.
Good night
God bless.

Question, Answers !

2009-09-20T23:00:00.000+05:30

It was last night
I had asked you a cold question,
Though you were already slept
I waited for long,
Your warm breath upon my chest
sparked the answer,
your eyes were closed
still they were saying so much.
your honest and delighted face
scattered the light of devotion
your arms around me
answered everything,
even the question I had not asked.
till the dawn my dear
I watched you completely
i felt you at full
and I got all the answers
sweet, honest and abstract.
since then
we have been lacking questions ,
because we just have answers
sweet, honest and abstract.

Years ago

2008-06-26T07:07:00.000+05:30

by Kay-Kay

Years ago,
a pleasant co-incidence was born
at the middle of nowhere.
Then lost among the crowds,
hidden inside its own beautiful world,
unfurled inside the dreams
and enjoyed alone,
all alone.

After cascades of years
I called the co-incidence again,
On a shinning evening
the stranger was back in the town,
with the gift of blurred memories.
There were two for tea
and tea for two,
drinking up the sky,
counting the stars,
But the moon itself was with me.

we spoke; silence, smile and lust
then we lost.

Paused Dreams

2008-01-22T19:07:00.002+05:30

long long time ago
he was following a thread of way
made by the colorful butterflies,
and he was paused
at a beautiful theatre of flowers.
Then he followed the height
of dad's shoulder,
warmth of mom's lap,
he followed to get teacher's good,
but paused at the end of childhood,
one day he measured the distance
to the moon,
when about to fly, it was mid-noon,
so again it was paused to itself,
in the middle of the eternal space.
Dad's darling and mom's little boy
with best friends happiness and joy,
would stop the cosmic, if he can,
nowdays, he is a gentleman.
walking down the same lane
of Monomandu
he frequently finds the dreams scattered,
over the dusty and narrow streets of life,
the butterfly dream,
the dream of dad
the dream of mom
and the manic dream upon her angel's eyes.
all are paused, and throwing "good bye"s.
Now he wants not to be in top
his dreams are just seeking a full stop!

सपना

2008-01-21T14:49:00.000+05:30

ऊ सपना हो,
तर मैले उसलाई भेटेको छैन,
न त देखेको नै छु,
मस्त निन्द्राबाट एक्कासी बिउंझिदा ,
न त मैले उसलाई घ्वाप्लाक्क अंगालो नै हालेको छु,
उसको शहर सुतिरहंदा,
नियोन लाइटले कौमार्यता छरिदिएको सुनसान सडकमा
न त मैले उसको आंचल नै पक्डेको छु,
न त म उसंग जुनको उचाईमा पुगेको छु,
न त क्षितिजको गहीर्राईमा होम्मिएको छु,
फूलको सुवासको गीत पनि गाएको छैन,
छहराको संगीतमा नाचेको पनि छैन,
न त लेखिएको छ सिंगमरमरको छातीमा उसको र मेरो नाम
न त देखिएको छ, कुनै परी कथाको परिकथा भित्र,
न त कुनै नो म्यान ल्यान्डमा उन्मुक्त भई हराएका छौं, हामीहरु ।
तर ऊ सपना हो मैले नदेखेको सपना मैले नभेटेको सपना ।

seeing Your face

2007-02-28T12:00:00.000+05:30

swear, since seeing Your face,
the whole world is fraud and fantasy
The garden is bewildered as to what is leaf
or blossom. The distracted birds
can't distinguish the birdseed from the snare.
A house of love with no limits,
a presence more beautiful than venus or the moon,
a beauty whose image fills the mirror of the heart.