tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59684749965649887792024-03-13T11:39:38.292-07:00the kitchen windowbig happenings in a little lifeShilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.comBlogger192125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-37205958287696211032014-08-29T23:08:00.002-07:002014-08-29T23:38:09.102-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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it is 17 months since we moved to Kerala, months of constant discoveries of oneself, the family and our environment. nothing is like before. everything is changed.<br />
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rakhi passed by without a murmur in our town in Kerala. if not for the Facebook updates and pictures, i might have forgotten about it completely. we did not celebrate Rakhi. the power of the bond between siblings is as unassuming as it is strong. and, i found that bond grow around me when i hear my son and daughter actually conversing with each other, running with our dog, the teasing banter and the fact that they started sleeping by themselves in their own room - they have each other.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/14883583626" title="DSC_0417 by Shilpa Harish, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0417" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3897/14883583626_8345e57572_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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around this time, we took a long drive in the monsoons to our estates at the foot of the mountains. some pictures from then.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/14719974347" title="DSC_0431 by Shilpa Harish, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0431" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5574/14719974347_fe72bc1fe6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/14989444725" title="DSC_0434 by Shilpa Harish, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0434" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5559/14989444725_e2690ca256_z.jpg" width="427" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/14989436505" title="DSC_0437 by Shilpa Harish, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0437" height="425" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5560/14989436505_69bb5549c0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/14802740579" title="DSC_0439 by Shilpa Harish, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0439" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3865/14802740579_7554fac947_z.jpg" width="425" /></a><br />
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how fast they grow!<br />
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-74496273860865809342013-12-12T18:01:00.000-08:002013-12-13T00:59:57.123-08:00the little things.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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it is true. an attitude of gratitude makes just-enough a feast! in the depth of the lowest of days, there always is a reason to be grateful for. and, more enough than not, I find these moments closely related to my family, my kids especially, and my friends! </div>
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my friends are my guardian angels. and, my daughter and son are little cherubs that can make me forget my splitting headache with their soft kisses and chubby arms around me. they are always so warm and smell so snugly that I just want them to hug me forever!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoYyrNa7LSKpeP_BcB0k0-ZFha64RJ9NweGCfxNuFRLAXV3ZYxtJVUZSxw2Bn8k3zxIWdezWDTCBfUFjfoNrvEd06xeK3rSnYLKMnCAVfm9krfgGrNzslTOsQC8YpZ7T0nYJuDdrsW8I/s1600/xmas+tree+fa+(1+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnoYyrNa7LSKpeP_BcB0k0-ZFha64RJ9NweGCfxNuFRLAXV3ZYxtJVUZSxw2Bn8k3zxIWdezWDTCBfUFjfoNrvEd06xeK3rSnYLKMnCAVfm9krfgGrNzslTOsQC8YpZ7T0nYJuDdrsW8I/s320/xmas+tree+fa+(1+of+1).jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>the little miss holds her creation - snowflakes stickers on bands of green and the golden yellow star</i></div>
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chubby dimpled hands have always fascinated me. and, it's always Ashu, Ashvita, who comes to my mind when i talk of little hands that can be eaten. *cruella laugh* i can safely say i have seen her grow from a baby with a curly mop of hair to this poised and calm five year old, through her pictures.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5AEriVlacscdtQqsooe2_jjGcYjlm965TKp-L1sqcwkWZn63nE8Rqwu9IiwXS1ItHv-4Sd-75fU05kEfhxCZV-ow9JePsfaQL4rLDgD8O0vPprMWdANLjKyoMwNWFGxOS6cNKgDofbI/s1600/ashu+cards+F+a(1+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5AEriVlacscdtQqsooe2_jjGcYjlm965TKp-L1sqcwkWZn63nE8Rqwu9IiwXS1ItHv-4Sd-75fU05kEfhxCZV-ow9JePsfaQL4rLDgD8O0vPprMWdANLjKyoMwNWFGxOS6cNKgDofbI/s320/ashu+cards+F+a(1+of+1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>thumbprint trees. </i> </div>
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her mother, also Shilpa, and i met on flickr and have been friends for over four years. we met once, last year when they had come down to India for diwali. it is, and will be one of my most happy memories for years to come. i can also safely say this, we are more than friends. and, the only part not making us sisters is the name. what parents will give the same name to both their daughters!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUFC6jtfv5vYVLhKubKNbvhqB55_bA1xtq9s2VHZukGgozPCst_Tf_7DRt3ldHYRotxBJQ9VEadL7MszoWbazurJ77NX2aOnMQe_fGaWRoEdrTJTRmLR5w1iRai2MXqZX_VuWotY9YwE/s1600/ashu+xmas+card+thread+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUFC6jtfv5vYVLhKubKNbvhqB55_bA1xtq9s2VHZukGgozPCst_Tf_7DRt3ldHYRotxBJQ9VEadL7MszoWbazurJ77NX2aOnMQe_fGaWRoEdrTJTRmLR5w1iRai2MXqZX_VuWotY9YwE/s320/ashu+xmas+card+thread+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
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<i>with ribbons stuck and baubles drawn.</i><br />
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when i saw this little bundle of creativity in action, it was more than an inspiration. and, i am overwhelmed and grateful that her mother agreed and spent quite some time photographing, for 'the kitchen window.' <b>all pictures in this post are by Shilpa, and all ideas were executed by five-year-old Ashu.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJBxzkmji11gms74YqnuSR1v-qRCGUp8ZCGCyu9ExcuMqCBOzDVLOKISYAxFpIDjQ5mTTNFfdVqngE8YX0eOheadcO2Xj1TK64diGTtoEpwUswCHsuxwlDRaxt6DopCexzdiKaW91vm0/s1600/ashu+xmas+card+twig+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJBxzkmji11gms74YqnuSR1v-qRCGUp8ZCGCyu9ExcuMqCBOzDVLOKISYAxFpIDjQ5mTTNFfdVqngE8YX0eOheadcO2Xj1TK64diGTtoEpwUswCHsuxwlDRaxt6DopCexzdiKaW91vm0/s320/ashu+xmas+card+twig+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>minimal. whimsical. just lovely.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHzRBNEKhBatkjtL0vg8x_phaQybG2PYzVSD7ranqUpyrgFOvJdFOSKPJiOR_dwf_VakLe4n8irfjZN55r0tS6fqLACpJSlv9zbkHfI462XQn3Jwt62Z2EDq5KaXw2unIbTivEo8OH8A/s1600/cards+in+rain+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGHzRBNEKhBatkjtL0vg8x_phaQybG2PYzVSD7ranqUpyrgFOvJdFOSKPJiOR_dwf_VakLe4n8irfjZN55r0tS6fqLACpJSlv9zbkHfI462XQn3Jwt62Z2EDq5KaXw2unIbTivEo8OH8A/s320/cards+in+rain+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>no limits to her creativity.</i><br />
<i>moustache stickers!</i></div>
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here's presenting diy greeting cards that little children can make. can you imagine the happiness such a card would bring grandparents and uncles and aunts and/or parents who cannot make it to the big day. it would feel like the child sent a part of themselves in the mail.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlQvwILruQhy1IBm2ZVJCAv5Qevsd890edn3cb0hybS3SpRnS5Ufjvx2FETSsNezY0nUj2lkbM7kp1JH2da2J4r2j-t4KlWNXfEGNTNCtD9_QWNsj3rXrDOWciTquANGXz0YCdDoJcQk/s1600/making+cards1Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnlQvwILruQhy1IBm2ZVJCAv5Qevsd890edn3cb0hybS3SpRnS5Ufjvx2FETSsNezY0nUj2lkbM7kp1JH2da2J4r2j-t4KlWNXfEGNTNCtD9_QWNsj3rXrDOWciTquANGXz0YCdDoJcQk/s320/making+cards1Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>thumbprint reindeers!</i></div>
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<i>what did i tell you about edible, sweet hands :)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlHnwV85CoAmdaWsjiireezh8fkdj88ojOKKGKZKckt-mx20sSm1QWd0Gp_wYuzAGPwNPM9Gi2VS3RV6x-R0eWC47vEcAH7OiK8RfNXsa1filEbZbECiNGOfF9vUYJVVaBAGu1F8wShIU/s1600/paperbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlHnwV85CoAmdaWsjiireezh8fkdj88ojOKKGKZKckt-mx20sSm1QWd0Gp_wYuzAGPwNPM9Gi2VS3RV6x-R0eWC47vEcAH7OiK8RfNXsa1filEbZbECiNGOfF9vUYJVVaBAGu1F8wShIU/s320/paperbag.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<i>and, her personalised goodie bag to carry all the cards she made.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FoN0GFpKRBxdsBWzhh35xerbBf0fZsfyFIq-co_mSMIweZ2XT9GM3dcm-0zylr-JRMTu3HrNxvsPPKdDeeBlNSEXiZT4Q3OD4sYUpf2l7ADZSQC1XgghmqJJFpPK1PtfLJLVBAgM_go/s1600/x-mas+tree+ashu+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FoN0GFpKRBxdsBWzhh35xerbBf0fZsfyFIq-co_mSMIweZ2XT9GM3dcm-0zylr-JRMTu3HrNxvsPPKdDeeBlNSEXiZT4Q3OD4sYUpf2l7ADZSQC1XgghmqJJFpPK1PtfLJLVBAgM_go/s320/x-mas+tree+ashu+Fa+(1+of+1).jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
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<i>the colourful bands tree.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/79785031@N00/">this</a> is where Shilpa records her exotic travels and her colourful everyday life. thank you Ashu, you are a rockstar. thank you Shilpa, much love.</div>
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PS<br />
aren't you guys glad that there is something on the blog, other than me :D</div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-58639445406073687742013-12-02T22:46:00.000-08:002013-12-02T22:48:19.287-08:00'tis the season to be jolly<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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i was in the first year of my pre-degree course when my mother's mother, <i>ammachi, </i>had her first cardiac arrest. all phone calls were dotted with the words "heart attack." despite being discharged in a week, she went about her daily routines, always fretting over her husband, his meals, his clothes, his coming, his going. in less than a month she had another near-fatal cardiac arrest.</div>
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the bypass surgery was serious, and hardly heard of in Kerala, more than 15 years ago. it was in a hospital not far from our home, but in the neighbouring state. i didn't see mom for weeks. we had a domestic help brought in immediately from a relative's house who managed the kitchen and housework. i learnt to operate the washing machine. </div>
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<i>ammachi</i> stayed on with us for another couple of months. i learnt and met about most relatives on my mother's side in those two months. mom's cousin had started a business in hand loom saris. she came with five saris. mom could not will herself to buy it. but <i>ammachi, </i>she bought one with a border of deep maroon and golden stripes. this was my introduction to how women held onto hope in unravelling circumstances!</div>
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it is December. when the lagging year suddenly picks up tempo. a new year is not that far away and its like there is a new lease to life. hope surges. and, i bring you another little diy, a zesty and spicy pomander to match the upbeat mood.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/11183572625/" title="trh-Dec by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh-Dec" height="427" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2821/11183572625_a390fb9778_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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once you perforate the sweet limes with toothpicks, to pierce the cloves into it is simply easy-peasy. even the kids can do it. place it in with chocolates in an antique chest to set the mood for long conversations with friends. or hang it on door knobs to add interest and let the holiday waft in every room!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/11183558925/" title="trh-Dec by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh-Dec" height="571" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7451/11183558925_68093f8077_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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happy holidays!</div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-6527733401388539162013-11-24T04:10:00.000-08:002013-11-25T20:33:52.156-08:00spur.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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there is a change in the air. </div>
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a nip in the mornings and fog clouding the tall trees. </div>
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the leaves are falling. </div>
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the birdcalls in the early morning sound different.</div>
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even in the little tropical haven in Kerala, i now live in, there is an unmistakable change in the air. </div>
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enough to shake me out of hibernation.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/11024587546/" title="trh-spur by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh-spur" height="426" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3782/11024587546_b73c1eed77_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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its has been a long monsoons this time. </div>
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one that drenched <i>Onam</i>, Kerala's harvest festival,</div>
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which is meant to be bright and sun-shiny</div>
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and cheered with flowers.</div>
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the rains have continued with almost no break</div>
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into the thunderstorms characteristic of the Malayali month of <i>thulaam.</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8636034029/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8520/8636034029_02657c3478_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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my camera sank in the depths of the damp, </div>
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as did one of my most prized lenses.</div>
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they are both resting in the sick shelf of my room,</div>
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along with my Macbook - my window to the world.</div>
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but, the bursts of sunshine </div>
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has inspired us enough to put our sparkle on. </div>
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and, shimmer in the sunlight.</div>
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literally.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/11024518305/" title="trh-spur by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh-spur" height="426" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2835/11024518305_4bdacf3cc6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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the rains continue,</div>
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sometimes not stopping for hours.</div>
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despite the cloudy gloom</div>
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and the sodden grounds,</div>
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the feeling that better things are yet to come </div>
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manages to reign strong.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/11026779493/" title="trh-spur by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh-spur" height="680" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2834/11026779493_a8a159aff9_b.jpg" width="1024" /></a></div>
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Christmas is not far away.</div>
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things will look up.<br />
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ps</div>
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i do love leaves!</div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-69340048080209314762013-09-10T04:25:00.002-07:002013-09-11T22:50:47.037-07:00mangoes, memories... and more.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
it really is not possible to cut into a mango without being usurped by memories. a carton of them, hand-picked from the hundreds plucked, had been put in the kitchen by my brother, early in the afternoon. as i bustled in to make tea for the family, that sweet smell of more than a fifty mangoes, some ripening - others just right - hit me strongly. i was reduced to the ten-year-old trying to pluck low lying mangoes on my grandfather's farm.<br />
<br />
less than ten years later, i found myself sitting at the mica-topped dining table in our ancestral house drinking tea with grandpa, whom everyone calls pappa, and my dad's eldest brother. as with most houses in Kerala surrounded by tall trees, the afternoon is ringing with birdsongs and squirrels chirping as the walls come alive with flitting light through the leaves.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8626979096/" title="summer sun and mangoes. by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="summer sun and mangoes." height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8626979096_c7863ff99b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
the first big exams of my first semester in law college had got over before the holidays. i was sure i would flunk at least three subjects. i was scared to go back, wondering if opting for legal studies had been the right option. and, teenager that i was, i kept ranting to my uncle, whose most favourite niece i am, by the way. he listened patiently, not making the mistake of uttering a word lest i have a meltdown.<br />
<br />
that is when my grandpa said softly, in his strong professor voice, "courage does not mean you stop. courage means you go on, despite whatever makes you afraid!" he went back to sipping his tea, made just the way he likes it. the birds kept calling, the sunlight kept dancing on the walls.<br />
<br />
but, in those two seconds, i knew my life had changed forever.<br />
<br />
it does not mean that i haven't cowered or made for the nearest escape route when i could. but, whenever i have been cornered, when the only way out has been the hardest way, these words have lent me dignity to find value in my life in the lowest of times and held me in good stead in times of joy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
ps<br />
this post has been sitting on my mind and my drafts folder since summer. but, this is when i could will myself to post it.<br />
<br />
'the reluctant homemaker' has shifted base to Kerala, a rather lush and wet state in southernmost India. i felt the need for a new name. 'the kitchen window' was the name of my blog when i freelanced for the Times Of India web portal, iDiva. since Kerala is the home of my ancestors, where my roots are, i thought, why not etch my first blog's name into history as well.<br />
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-75011700794961558022013-01-19T21:50:00.001-08:002013-01-19T21:50:53.779-08:00spur of the moment.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
impulsive acts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the shocking start </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
that makes you jump out of your skin,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
is best to cure hiccups.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or, this morning,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
it helped me put behind </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the absent domestic help, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the very lived in living room.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
an impromptu DIY ~</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
two used mint packs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sparkly scotch tape.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and, you have a little box </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to stow your change,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or, carry a change of earrings</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for weekend trip.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8396396815/" title="trh by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8497/8396396815_423a665ac7.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8396460725/" title="trh by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8496/8396460725_e02f18f247_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
it is sunny and cool at the same time here.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
light and shadow together.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sorrow, never far from joy,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
laughter with tears.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
night and day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but, it is innate in the universe,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
it is the rule of life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for every yes, your stand you take,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you leave in darkness other options.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the shadows swallow the NOs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8396507319/" title="trh by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8192/8396507319_79446b7dea.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-86834953412873622852012-12-13T22:05:00.002-08:002012-12-13T22:05:56.816-08:00its christmassy.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
its hectic.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
slowly starting to gather,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
organize the stuff </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
i have been picking up</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
from places, for months,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to put under the tree...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...where we will all gather,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
on Christmas morning.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
married for almost nine years now, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
i kind of know</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
exactly how each one of us will look </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
that morning.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
acceptance. kindness. tolerance.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
bound by love.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and, you have a family :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8271874732/" title="DSC_0234 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0234" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8344/8271874732_bb7f8aec2a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8271875268/" title="DSC_0228 2 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0228 2" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8350/8271875268_0d163b8faf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8271874520/" title="DSC_0237 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0237" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8081/8271874520_48413829d6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
ps</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
yesterday.</div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-19487498188526858282012-12-10T04:33:00.000-08:002012-12-10T04:33:57.898-08:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Christmas</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
waves a magic wand over this world,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and behold, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
everything is softer</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and more beautiful.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
- Norman Vincent Peale</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8260126539/" title="o christmas tree, by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="o christmas tree," height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8210/8260126539_d161ae01bc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
</div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-7883580818375088402012-12-07T22:09:00.000-08:002012-12-07T22:12:05.197-08:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Saturday mornings come with misgivings. more so, when you have left too many things left undone over the week. so, you try and escape more from the grind of routine. any thing that does not make you want to see things the way they are.</div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-88191343240054313432012-12-03T20:47:00.000-08:002012-12-03T20:47:02.675-08:00stray. thoughts.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
morning light is the cosiest. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
warms the deep insides of my being. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
assures.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
re assures.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
so much so that with a warm cup </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
of steaming goodness in my hands,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
i don't feel like getting up</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or, moving.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
savoring the moment is so good</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
every chore of mine remains undone!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/6346568878/" title="sweet somethings by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="sweet somethings" height="426" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6100/6346568878_8da3b7ef8f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and, the countdown has begun.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
it is time. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
am ditching the tree this time. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
something else. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
too many ideas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
little time, and, littler skills to execute.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but, hello excitement!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/3129630320/" title="it is time by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="it is time" height="427" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3113/3129630320_74a157f026_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
cannot. stop. obsessing. about. mornings.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/3364029235/" title="aglow by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="aglow" height="599" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3443/3364029235_453f64bb8a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-67010636382666962542012-12-01T02:28:00.000-08:002012-12-01T02:28:59.702-08:00this<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Saturday morning, the first day of the last month of the year. my cousins and friends abroad have put up their christmas trees and hung up their stockings! i have not begun to think of 2013, but, if there were three wishes i got as a gift, i would first ask for me to be a neat freak. if only!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
and, the second wish would be for me to wake up (a tad smoothly) early in the mornings. i can jump out of bed on school days, but otherwise it is right next to impossible for me. </div>
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i think, no, i feel, quite strongly, that if i could master the two habits of waking up earlier and putting things back in their place, properly, 40% of my problems would disappear. my mind would feel as open as my clutter-free surroundings. and, the rest of my problems... oh well! nothing is in my hands is it?</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8233418579/" title="DSC_0278 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0278" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8201/8233418579_aea0075946_z.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8233418713/" title="DSC_0272 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0272" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8064/8233418713_32716480a7.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8234480784/" title="DSC_0279 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0279" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8208/8234480784_38768b0398.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="500" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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PS</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
anyone know who can grant me these wishes?</div>
</div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-71631728823941370572012-11-17T05:06:00.002-08:002012-11-17T05:06:53.430-08:00framed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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living in a 980 sq ft apartment with two children, a german shepherd, an african grey and the darling husband who tries to keep out of the way puts things in perspective. you simply come to terms with the fact that however longingly you stare at all the pretty rooms, in all the beautiful houses, in the many design blogs, it cannot be for you, at least not for a long time. maybe never.</div>
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it was in the midst of demolishing the piles in my cupboards kept exclusively for junk, aka stuff i can't decide whether to keep or throw away for good, i found a cute little frame. it had been a going away gift from a friend an neighbor in Chennai, just before we moved cities. basking warm in the memories of our fist house together, the birth of our daughter... there formed in my mind a plan. </div>
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the daughter punched butterflies from the yellowed pages of an old Oxford dictionary. all i did was stick it randomly on the frame. took less than ten minutes, that too, because little madam talks way too much.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7411309708/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="427" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5456/7411309708_6086ee167c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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also, discovered in the pile that i had saved for posterity, was a frame bought on holiday years ago with a picture of us clicked on that same holiday. mush overload. i had tried to remove the picture and cracked the glass with my, how to say it, two left hands. </div>
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i had spent enough hours on Pinterest for my heart to jump at breathing new life into it. it now holds a rather eroded and drab shell from Alibaug who just got its sparkle on. my kids' best DIY with me so far, may i add.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7731794102/" title="shimmer n shell by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="shimmer n shell" height="428" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8433/7731794102_4788b45a3d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and, last, my star frames. a set i had found at bargain prices. the little one holds ferns from my teeny balcony garden. i had wanted to paint or print 'keep calm and carry on' for the momma frame as my children put it...</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7607586954/" title="fern by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="fern" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7263/7607586954_687fa488b4_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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... but, the daughter had a surge of creative impulse and here it is. all of us, under a pretty rainbow, the epitome of happily ever after.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7656310948/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7656310948_ec85aa73ac_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-51455604653038066852012-11-13T07:42:00.000-08:002012-11-13T07:42:55.149-08:00the festival buzz.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8182234542/" title="the kitchen window sill. by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="the kitchen window sill." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8486/8182234542_8748d7f856.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8182196841/" title="spreading good cheer. by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="spreading good cheer." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8182196841_07fc750ea3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8182151322/" title="happy Diwali :) by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="happy Diwali :)" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8343/8182151322_612680ceca.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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happy diwali :)</div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-22807180869598795582012-10-19T05:47:00.000-07:002012-10-19T05:47:56.232-07:00saying it with flowers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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i was <a href="http://shilpaharish.blogspot.in/2011/08/flowers.html">never</a> big on flowers. they took their time finding a place in my heart. even now, i have not entirely succumbed to their charm and beauty. the two or three that bloom every two three weeks find their place in the living room, in my daily pictures, in conversations that must bore the heck out of the other mothers at the bus stop and since the cover photos started on facebook, updated immediately with glee. </div>
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on my Friday jaunts through the fresh farm produce, i pass through men and women weaving garlands in time for the morning prayers in the temple. flowers by the roadside increase during the festival season. this morning i found these ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8102426633/" title="trh - saying it with flowers by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh - saying it with flowers" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8194/8102426633_718691d292.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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last week, the son had to make rangoli in school. what was left of the flowers i hurriedly bought ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8069476103/" title="marigold by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="marigold" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8451/8069476103_3cf3b160d6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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when i bought some yellow roses to cheer my sunny house ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8102426413/" title="trh - saying it with flowers by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh - saying it with flowers" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8045/8102426413_a39d7813d0.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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it being the month of the Holy Rosary, this little statuette of her stayed with me for a day before moving onto the next house ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8078966462/" title="at thy feet. by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="at thy feet." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8469/8078966462_57110c32fc.jpg" width="334" /></a></div>
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the orange gerberas bloomed together in my teeny balcony garden ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/6248608572/" title="once your mind is calm by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="once your mind is calm" height="500" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6106/6248608572_40e7755b68.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
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in the company of the fragrant frangipani from my now dead plant ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/4677925404/" title="no more Monday blues by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="no more Monday blues" height="398" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4064/4677925404_6226924995.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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plucked from the pathway downstairs ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/3902142621/" title="kindness by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="kindness" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3575/3902142621_15a7c5f95d.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
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weeds from the roadside are VIPs in my house ~</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7702793664/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8007/7702793664_ba7e7f9351.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-78904836961731897412012-09-30T20:52:00.000-07:002012-09-30T21:21:18.600-07:00the frieze story<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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mom hardly knew how to design the
first years of her wedded life. she kept a clean home, utterly spick and
span. after my brother and i had started school, she had lots of time
on her hands, well, because of her efficient ways. as her Hindi
improved, she made more friends and as our manners improved they called
on a lot of people.</div>
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she
told me, she realised that despite the more or less same furniture in
all the Army accommodations in the various cantonments, the
personalities of the owners shone through in little nuances. of course,
in the end, there was not much difference, or money, but, there were
still ways the sitting room differed.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/5028976711/" title="cozy corner by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="cozy corner" height="334" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4088/5028976711_39970ba803.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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i
still remember the yak skin carpet and the Naga spears in one home, the
colourful cushions in another and round paper hanging lamps in one
dining room. my mother always, always turned furniture around. i seem to
have inherited that trait.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/4812277710/" title="in pursuit of peace by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="in pursuit of peace" height="485" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4122/4812277710_bc313aa082.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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but,
for some months now, i have resorted to arranging and re-arranging the
top of the chest of drawers. its like my mantel, if you may. the frieze are proof of
the passing seasons, collection of memories and sometimes, a window to
my mood. here, are some snapshots in chronological order!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/3198943643/" title="happily pink by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="happily pink" height="357" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3424/3198943643_9e808f2911.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i>the first time. the candle stands, planter, candles all were bought from our Muscat holiday.</i></span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/5970245662/" title="trh 28july'11 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh 28july'11" height="500" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6140/5970245662_d6a727d41e.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">a little </span><a href="http://shilpaharish.blogspot.in/2011/07/keeping-me-warm.html" style="color: #666666;">diy</a><span style="color: #666666;"> to cosy things up a bit.</span></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/6001443310/" title="trh aug2'll by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh aug2'll" height="333" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6011/6001443310_93b176a063.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">the majestic leather case, also from Muscat.</span></i><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/6184275068/" title="put-things-back- by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="put-things-back-" height="333" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6153/6184275068_da0ff68000.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i>a little bit of colour to offset the teakwood.</i></span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/6885743499/" title="day 16 ~ something new by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="day 16 ~ something new" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6885743499_aed384eba9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<i><span style="color: #666666;">when the three bloomed together, they deserved pride of place.</span></i> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7423189774/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8023/7423189774_85c0f42f6c.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i>for the son's fifth birthday.</i></span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7540531630/" title="the ever-changing frieze by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="the ever-changing frieze" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8153/7540531630_d3d1e5571a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<i>when i started enjoying the permutation combinations, cliched that i am.</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7656310948/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7656310948_ec85aa73ac.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i>the daughter's version of our family under the pretty rainbow.</i></span> <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7738023310/" title="to be alive by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="to be alive" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8424/7738023310_fb12510593.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i>when a friend brought me flowers and i prolonged the goodness for almost another week.</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/8042163101/" title="DSC_0236 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0236" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8322/8042163101_fb08be9946.jpg" width="500" /></a></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><i>how it looks these days :) </i></span></div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-5789210977547206362012-09-29T00:14:00.001-07:002012-09-29T00:17:18.941-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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there is a reason for every season. one of the many reasons of the long monsoons, for me, is to read, i just discovered. bright sunny days leave me restless and dull my mind. but, the cool rains are invigorating. you feel like you can get a lot done, after all, there's not much you can do outside!<br />
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finding a lit corner in the cloudy darkness of a rainy morning after the kids have been bundled in raincoats and wet socks to school, settling down with the largest cup of coffee or tea with the dog at your feet making up for the blanket that you are lazy to bring down is easier than finding a shady spot in summer in our house.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/4102773452/" title="as it rained outside by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="as it rained outside" height="339" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2792/4102773452_685f423d79.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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'Barefoot in Baghdad' was a book i took immediately to in the Coimbatore Airport book store. it was pink and lilac with a striking portrait of a woman with beautiful eyes. in addition to telling stories of Iraqi women with dignity and strength, Manal M Omar brought fortha picture of Iraq different from the one in my mind, which was of a desert country over-ridden with tanks and marines sporting rifles with little US flags attched. *sigh*</div>
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This book introduced me to the rich culture of this war-torn misused country, the banks of the Tigris and Iraqis of different communities, not unlike my country. Mutanabi street stays in my mind, pictured vibrant and busy by her words, where there was this market lined with only book stores, stacks of books overflowing into the streets and narrow alleys. according to the author, it fulfills the Arabic proverb, "Cairo writes, Beirut publishes, Baghdad reads."</div>
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Manal M Omar is rooted in her values. her frustrations are relatable, especially at not being taken seriously for being younger than expected, and being a woman. how many times has that happened to us!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7445937682/" title=".barefoot in baghdad. by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt=".barefoot in baghdad." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/7445937682_a461e70301.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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for all that i have read, i have never perused or be led by reviews. the blurb excites me, the cover calls to me or a friend recommends it to me. 'Em and the big Hoom,' was one such instance where all i had was the words of a twitter contact clear and quiet in my ears when i spotted the title in a busy display window.</div>
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the book was un-put-down-able from the first paragraph. it sucked you right into the eye of the heart rendering story, words taking hold and its like you are watching it in 3D. during the difficult teenage years, i used to hurl big words at mom and revel in explaining them to her. Jerry Pinto took me back to those years, when the mother, miserable with her mental illness tells her son, you must be smart, if you know a word like that.<br />
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the darkness, unapologetic and stark, envelopes us, entangles us... we want to stop reading, but, we also want to know. Pinto's words form images that float like clouds on a windless, humid day, stifling us, yet making us wonder about their beauty and lightness!<br />
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i told a friend, i wanted to kiss mr Pinto's hands. i still do.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7353128482/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8023/7353128482_93d53c376d.jpg" width="355" /></a></div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-24156183400567169792012-09-13T07:00:00.000-07:002012-09-13T07:00:10.385-07:00reaching out.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Chalkboard;">Was it Tony? Johnny? I don’t remember his name.
He was the first wedding proposal. You know! You see photo. He sees photo.
Families talk. When almost everything is finalized or to both the family’s
liking, you actually get to meet in the neatest room in your home, with almost
entire families of both sides right outside the half shut door.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Chalkboard;">So, Tony or Johnny had his photo sent to my excited
family by eager parents. And, we were supposed to start a conversation across
continents through e-mail. Except, I could not find a start. I am good to barge
in, interrupt, debate… but, start with an introduction. Now, there I fail.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Chalkboard;">So, I asked my mother to let me hear his voice.
Just once. Ask him to call. Anyways, things didn’t go further. I was naïve
enough to hold onto something as tangible as it is intangible… the sound of
someone’s voice, the vibes of a meeting, the feel of a hand.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Chalkboard;">With all the wisdom I’ve gained in the ten or so
years, I have realized that I was a fool. I have made three best friends. And,
we are so close. They have been lucky to get to meet each other. I have not
seen them except in pictures. But, when we are in our element and in the mood
to chat, you should see how words strung as chatter posing as mail fly across
states and countries!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1CxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span style="font-family: Chalkboard;">Last week, I got hold of the phone numbers of
two of them. Talked to them. Now, I have voices to the words I read. A lilt to
the laugher icons, intonations here and there. Reaching out is all it takes to
make a bond. Holding on to it is all it takes to make it last.</span></div>
</div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-65278211308443995752012-09-06T06:45:00.000-07:002012-09-06T06:45:19.033-07:00it is time <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
for the annual rain post. usually, by this time my spirit is damp and sunken. every inch of my being is moronish. not this time, not this year. there has been as many bright interludes with the sun shining bright as the bursts of paltry rain.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
the monsoons came without showers of blessings for the farmers. there has not been enough rain. i worry about the framers, their produce. but, then i remember the warehouses with rotting grain. i think how it will be with more power outages in the warmer months. it strikes me of the times i rushed to answer the doorbell without turning off the lights and fan and stood there talking with my neighbour for almost an hour. oh the rising prices of everything! oh the times i bought stuff mighty unnecessarily just because it was on sale!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
wilful waste brings woeful want, i read in college somewhere. enough is a feast. the words have stayed in my mind longer than i expected them to. time to practice them more than i do now. to do my little bit. maybe the kids will imbibe it somewhere along the way.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
and, i almost forgot the pictures from my little balcony this afternoon!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7943223650/" title="DSC_0277 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0277" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8457/7943223650_8c115d80e3.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7943223380/" title="DSC_0280 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0280" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8446/7943223380_72174ac8d4.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7943224718/" title="DSC_0269 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0269" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8440/7943224718_2031f169e6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7943225528/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8034/7943225528_d73aec98bc.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7943224044/" title="DSC_0274 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0274" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8038/7943224044_5c7f859633.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-70543196323027760452012-09-02T21:14:00.000-07:002012-09-02T21:14:12.338-07:00the love knot<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
a love story. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
two little girls.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sisters and friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the younger wanted to *paint rainbows in different shapes and put it together like a quilt.* </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the momma had already bought the gift.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
so, we improvised </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and wrapped the presents for the 11 year old birthday girl in hand-painted paper</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
that the little one also crushed to add texture!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7898115730/" title="DSC_0235 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0235" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8306/7898115730_a9c91c51f8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7898117016/" title="DSC_0230 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0230" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8033/7898117016_a3bbd6c350_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7918702822/" title="a love knot by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="a love knot" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8178/7918702822_eeea9b8ea7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-21443671421535470122012-08-07T21:48:00.001-07:002012-08-07T21:51:06.357-07:00a crossing over of sorts.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
till a few months ago, i was this girl refusing to grow up. everyone else had to take responsibility for my abundance of or lack of things, my sadness and happiness, my shortcomings all the while i preened under the spotlight at the little successes. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
then, life threw me bitter gourds. literally. and, i was taking care of more than i ever had. talking and hustling, smiling and managing, meeting deadlines and keeping my sanity. things i have seen grandmothers and mothers doing!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
my fate, or, is it the universe, or the much cliched 'life,' is taking me in another direction. one i did not ever want to take. so, i am going to say it very fast. *deep breath* to be creative and content within the confines of my home. there. i said it.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
its funny how the graph of my life is going backward in my head. not downward, not really. but, backward. i feel i am returning to my roots. no, deeper. into the depths of my being. a way to start again. but, this time with the right attitude and a graceful frame of mind.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
no. things have not completely changed. but, i am realizing that if i want to, i can channelise my thoughts and plans, despite limited resources into serious action. and, all i can think is what have i been doing my entire life!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
my priorities are open before my eyes. no. am not letting go of my dreams, just tweaked them so they are not always out of reach. because, that is not the way i want to live, hankering over things lost. and, it would be a total waste of me. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
like the quote, 'it takes courage to grow up and become who you really are. - E E Cummings</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuNlX0S7AkT37_H1tWCNcUbh1Sk1QZy_c63LTdWWtYN8mvQl6d3TKftfBV5I03rsTmki9Rdx52K-opY6uaGAGQXUY7U9tyM0mOoQ9zin59R1pUK3l9PzAc5HjzKAkJqYKOvaNmqbWBSc/s1600/DSC_0227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuNlX0S7AkT37_H1tWCNcUbh1Sk1QZy_c63LTdWWtYN8mvQl6d3TKftfBV5I03rsTmki9Rdx52K-opY6uaGAGQXUY7U9tyM0mOoQ9zin59R1pUK3l9PzAc5HjzKAkJqYKOvaNmqbWBSc/s320/DSC_0227.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
PS</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
had been missing. as you can see above, it was a realization of 'route re-calculation,' as that lady with the nice accent in our GPS says.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-47008108510550394942012-07-21T07:08:00.001-07:002012-07-21T07:13:14.577-07:00somedays,<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
i am my own eeyore. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you know, sighing. moping. drooping. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
sighing again.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
raining on my own parade,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
like the rains i heard were not enough!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
can't bear to hear myself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
so, i took it upon myself</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to inhale in the pleasant</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and comforting aroma of some tea.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
add to that, the uplifting tang </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
of some lemongrass i bought </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
on my Friday jaunt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to the roadside farmer's market.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7615306204/" title="DSC_0179 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0179" height="338" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7268/7615306204_0205c39663.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
this is called <i>gauti chai masala</i>,<br />
or, literally, village chai masala,<br />
said the lady selling them,<br />
crushing a bit with her fingers<br />
and bringing it to her nose,<br />
nodding at me to do the same.<br />
she told me to make tea as follows...<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7615222764/" title="DSC_0166 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0166" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7257/7615222764_c0e6481a28_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7615222046/" title="DSC_0170 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0170" height="428" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7615222046_271ac9f593_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7615221672/" title="DSC_0171 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0171" height="428" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8013/7615221672_ae101f4763_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
.. and, as i inhale deeply, </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
my fingers let the warmth</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
from the hot cup seep into my weary muscles.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
my mind is on mute,</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
my legs are numb.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
let me sit here in lemony -gingery solace,</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
bracing myself for a new week</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">
that starts tomorrow.<br />
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<br /></div>
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PS</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
tea. after a long time.</div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-15103201862681317242012-07-17T20:59:00.001-07:002012-07-17T20:59:22.702-07:00light profound, light sublime<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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</div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7353762644/" title="trh - light by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh - light" height="443" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7231/7353762644_351b86e18a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7353772772/" title="trh-light by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh-light" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7075/7353772772_7ef7a6817c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7353773028/" title="trh-light by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh-light" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7074/7353773028_435b2de868_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7168550899/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7226/7168550899_073624bb2f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7168552051/" title="trh - light by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh - light" height="428" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7097/7168552051_a16d539975_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7353762294/" title="trh - light by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="trh - light" height="487" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7241/7353762294_1c6e6e023d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-4128614130235627112012-07-14T22:36:00.002-07:002012-07-14T22:36:28.798-07:00Thursdays<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
are the day of leftovers. find what's edible in the fridge, use it up, wipe and clean if necessary. though, the last phrase is absolutely not compulsory. also, a good time to make inventories about what to buy, and, pointers at what not to buy. *tries to wipe away memories of the rotting things*</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
but, i will not be able to shake away the sinking of my heart at the debates, the outrage and the footage of a seventeen year old being molested, groped, humiliated by a mob! the sneering. the helplessness. the horror of it all. makes me think of all the times i have walked on the streets at night, for pediatric crocin, glitter, sharpener, eggs, anything i needed urgently early next morning and had forgotten to buy. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
could it be that i was not harassed, or molested or raped simply because i was not. it could have happened, but it did not. could that be the explanation for my safety, because there is no guarantee, not from the police, not from the people passing by, faceless, nameless, heartless. and, why should they or anyone else risk being another Keenan and reuben. of course, you remember the brave hearts, don't you?</div>
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<br /></div>
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the media has moved on. how much will i hold on to! so, after a quickie clean up and list making i am set for my weekly dose <a href="http://shilpaharish.blogspot.in/2012/01/sights-this-morning.html">of the streets</a> nearby and the deliciously hot and inviting <a href="http://shilpaharish.blogspot.in/2012/01/friday-mornings.html">breakfast</a> after a robust haggling session and walk. tensions ebb away. the food goes into my stomach, the taste makes me giddy and there i sit for a good hour, maybe more.</div>
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<br /></div>
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last Thursday, if found two lemons in a huge plastic bag in a corner of the fridge and a recipe with just two lemons and six eggs, which was all i had. it was a sign and i take them seriously. it was the first time, i was going about a cake as elaborate as this. i was very mindful. and, it was so worth the effort, time and the decision to make it :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7572439852/" title="DSC_0152 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0152" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8147/7572439852_c071d9e71f.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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PS</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://madteaparty.wordpress.com/2007/06/12/a-piece-of-cake/#more-525">the recipe</a></div>
</div>Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-42097362646189933932012-06-23T22:15:00.001-07:002012-06-23T22:17:43.825-07:00it has bitten me.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">this organization bug.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">but, i can't tell you </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">how much it has helped me.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">and, i found a place to store glass bottles</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">and glass jars,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">and, to use them creatively.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">yeah, that up-cycle razzmatazz.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">am now part of the bandwagon.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">remember, that <a href="http://shilpaharish.blogspot.in/2012/02/day-12-inside-your-closet.html">time</a> i was ashamed </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">to show you the inside of my closet...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">not anymore!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">also, one creative thing per week resolution</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">of mine - check :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7405954564/" title="DSC_0144 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0144" height="426" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7224/7405954564_85b869b517_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7347352418/" title="made with love by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="made with love" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8152/7347352418_b16ee4fd0d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i>eating Nutella is yummy, painted them empty jars with kids is scrumptious, too</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7405955048/" title="DSC_0143 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0143" height="355" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8027/7405955048_93520f71f0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i>easy-peasy to find and match with what you're wearing</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7405954028/" title="DSC_0145 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0145" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7222/7405954028_7a097c06fd_z.jpg" width="426" /></a></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">PS</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">you bet I've earned my coffee :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
</div>Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5968474996564988779.post-51118014481389045652012-06-23T03:03:00.000-07:002012-06-23T03:03:41.155-07:00it was<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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my son's birthday last Friday. there was a small kiddie party planned. and, like always, i was on it. but, in the run up to the party, i amazed myself with the amount of work i got done. it was not just the cleaning part, where unlike the past years, i actually sorted, arranged and organized. not just dumped them out of sight!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7423189774/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8023/7423189774_85c0f42f6c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
i was ready with the prep of the food beforehand. that is a first. usually, it is like i get chef's block or something. i am so worried about how the food will turn out, i keep putting it off till like two hours before the guests are to arrive. and, then brag about how i'm living on the edge and all. *shakes head*</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7417823848/" title="Untitled by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7114/7417823848_83f814f331_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
the fridge is purged, clean, smelling fresh with not a single dish without a cover in it! the fans are wiped clean. all but one cupboard is sorted. no old clothes remain. and, along with all of this, i managed to season some mangoes pickled in brine. found cooling themselves in the far recesses of my fridge, where they have been for more than a few months now, i think. all this in the last four days.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7424693534/" title="DSC_0154 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0154" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8150/7424693534_bfda9d77f3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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PS</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/13258962@N07/7424693794/" title="DSC_0153 2 by silpam, on Flickr"><img alt="DSC_0153 2" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8150/7424693794_59681977e5.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666;"><i>the burdday boy</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>Shilpahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17151196055260434675noreply@blogger.com6