My mate AS put this up on his FB account and it got me cracking up ! He’s found some really funny signs and I’ll be sharing them over the next few #WW’s.
Don’t forget to share your link if you are participating in #WW
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 1 Picture
Today’s post marks the end of the 10 Day YOU Challenge, and probably the most awaited one as well. Today’s post is the easiest post – I have to put up a picture of myself !
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And this is what the Diva looks like (on a mad night out) ….
Admit it – you thought I was going to put up a proper picture of myself didn’t you ? Hey, the rules never said that I actually had to reveal my face – it just said a picture of me hehe and here’s a picture of moi in my element on a mad night out with my boys when Pete Tong was playing in Dubai.
To know more about the challenge and a bit more about me – check out the following posts that reveal my secrets; things I love; my deepest fears, and the things I desperately want. I’ve still got lots of places I want to visit; lots of foods that I need to experiment with; and one can never get enough of movies, books and songs !
And there you have it – the Diva has successfully completed the 10 Day YOU Challenge. Hopefully it may inspire you to participate in the same (and just as I say this I see an alert that my friend The Crazy Nigerian has just put up his latest post for the challenge)
If you are participating – don’t forget to share your links below so that we all get to know each other a bit better.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 2 Songs
I knew there was a reason I started the #MusicMonday meme – so that if I ever had to short list my favourite songs then I could ! That’s how I came about with The Diva’s Top 40 Tunes !
Since I have to pick 2 songs, they would be:
David Guetta – The World Is Mine
A must have tune for any CD / playlist that I make. Something about the beat and tune just make me ‘feel it’
Michael Jackson – Bad
The man is a truly the KING of POP ! I couldn’t pick between Bad, Beat It or Thriller so I’ve just gone with Bad. (and ‘cos I used to have this particular poster – 6ft x 3ft - in my room back in the day!)
Now it’s your turn folks – what are the 2 songs that immediately come to mind as you read this ? Leave them in the comments so we can all expand our musical tastes.
Monday, August 29, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 3 Films
My heart sank a little when I saw what todays’ challenge was. 3 Films. Is that 3 films I’ve really liked, or that have inspired me or that I’d never watch again ?
I’ve come to conclude that I’m really crap at names of songs, books and movies ! But for the sake of this challenge – let’s get this list going ..
Films that were a total waste of my time
- Black Swan. WTF ! I wanted to smack the woman ! I don’t know why but I just did not like this movie at all. It made me want to leave the cinema !
- From Paris With Love. Avoid. Poor story line and some scenes made me wonder what the director & producer were thinking when they shot the scene !
- Inglorious Bastards. Long, drawn out, and sketchy / weird ending. I think I even fell asleep for 20 mins during the movie. Definitely something dodgy about this film.
Films that I can watch over & over again
- Ice Age. Diego is my favourite character !
- Pulp Fiction. Tarantino at his best !
- Face Off. John Travolta and Nicolas Cage – need I say more ?
The first thing that came to mind were movies that I did not like – hence the top list; then I just jotted down what I did like to balance it out.
What are your favourite movies ? Which movie could you watch over and over again ? Have you seen any of the movies on my list – thoughts about them ?
Don’t forget to share your 3 films in the comments below (think of it as doing me a favour and allowing me to expand my horizons when its comes to movies). If you are taking part in the challenge, make sure you share your link below !
MM #55 Chromeo - Bonafied Loving
I can only think of two of my expat friends DL & MG when I hear this song. We had gone over to this gorgeous villa which was beautiful beyond belief and the two of them sang this song over the hammocks whilst the rest of us cheered them on !
I know I want some bonafide loving this week ! So if any nice older guy with a bit of life experience, the right clothes and the right appearance please step up ! (that’s right – it’s part of the lyrics from the track)
I don’t know what it is about this track – but I really love it. It’s very peppy, upbeat and instantly gets your groove on. It’s also very ‘real’ in terms of the lyrics (I feel).
Happy #MusicMonday folks ! and don’t forget to share your linky below !
Sunday, August 28, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 4 Books
I don’t even know how to start shortlisting books that I enjoy reading ! I’ve read so many over the years. The problem is that my entire book collection is now gathering dust in storage as I have no space for them in the house – so I can’t even go through the lot of them to pick out my faves !
So here goes my list (which is whatever comes to mind first – including authors I like) and I’m hopefully going to avoid the ones I already have listed in a previous post ‘Books & Beyond’
1/ Jack Reacher series by Lee Child. I love the authors’ writing style and the main character. I’ve read about 15 or so books by this author and its great to follow the main character through his adventures.
2/ Any book by John Grisham. I grew up reading his books and really enjoy his writing style. The criminal cases, the court systems, learning bits & bobs about the law. My favourites include A Time To Kill, The Client and The Chamber.
3/ Harry Potter series by JK Rowling. I love love love the series. I want to go to Hogwarts. I want a magic wand, a time turner; but most of all I want the invisible cloak (it would be so much fun!). Oooh how I wish the magical world of Hogwarts really existed !
4/ Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice. Damn it took me a few minutes to recollect that, not to mention some help from NB and Google !
It’s actually criminal (not to mention super hard!) to just have to list just 4 books !! Now I feel crappy because I don’t have all my books nor do I remember all the authors I have enjoyed in the past.
Oh well – guess this is the motivation I need to build up the book collection again !
What are your favourite books ? Or authors ? Are you reading anything at the moment ? What was the last book you read ? Don’t forget to share your answers in the comments and if you are taking part in the Blog Challenge then make sure you share your link.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 5 Foods
Now this is going to be hard considering I’m a self-proclaimed dessert lover and not even remotely close to being a foodie ! Oh and I’m a vegetarian as well !
I’m going to try to go with cuisine here just so that it sounds like I have a more exotic food palate – although I’m tempted just to write dessert for all items on my list !
1/ Italian. Pizza, pastas and risottos. I’m a huge fan of Italian food and more so ‘cos my boy Luci (pronounced Lu-chi) really spoiled me on my trips to Italy. I like my pizza as a plain margarita (extra cheese if you will); a nice mix sauce (or pink sauce) pasta (spaghetti, fettuccini, penne) is always comforting; and a mushroom risotto is the best meal when you want to fill-up the tummy ! Oh, and lets not mozzarella & tomato salad (especially fresh Buffalo mozzarella) ! yum yum yum !
2/ Middle Eastern. I grew up in Dubai – need I say more ? From falafel wraps, humus & pita bread, tabouleh, lebneh, couscous, rice wrapped in vine leaves – I could live off Middle Eastern cuisine. My absolute favourite item of food to eat is the Cheese Manaeesh from Al Reef Bakery in Dubai. It’s a must have every time I visit there. My bestie Nat introduced me to Burekas when visiting Israel and I find them to be divine !
3/ Japanese. Ok as a vegetarian it’s a bit hard to really enjoy Japanese food but I love all things ‘maki’ (which is the veg sushi rolls) and Golden Tofu with peanut sauce ! I became a fan after eating at Bento Cafe in London – I just checked the menu out and now craving some Japanese food ! Ohhh bring on the Avocado & Cucumber maki rolls, and some Gyoza whilst we are on the subject ! Oh God I want to move back to London right now !
4/ Indian. The Punjabi in me loves authentic parathas with yogurt, dal makhani, paneer makhani (only during the day ‘cos I get migraines if I eat it at night). I do quite South Indian food such as dosas (confession I eat ‘cheese dosas’), idli and curd rice – and I really enjoyed eating off a banana leaf !! Then I like eating some really specific Rajesthani dishes courtesy of my maternal grandma. But I can’t eat Indian food on a daily basis – it’s just way too heavy for my system !
5/ I don’t know what the 5th type of food would be. Would any type of eggs be considered valid ? Or can I just put ‘breakfast foods’ ? That could pass for a type of cuisine right ? Or maybe if I have to pick a cuisine I’ll go with Chinese (specifically veg fried rice, dim sums, crispy seaweed with plum sauce)
Like I’ve mentioned before I’m really not much of a foodie at all – so it’s actually quite hard to pin point foods that I like to eat (and having said that – it has to be as authentic as possible otherwise I’m not eating it!)
If I had to pick 5 foods I couldn’t live without then it would have to be :
- Potato
- Eggs
- Bread
- Pasta
- Fruit
Finally this challenge is done – probably the hardest for me to actually do ! Why isn’t there a dessert list on this challenge ?? (note to self – must change that!)
What about you guys ? What' are your favourite foods / cuisine ? Have you got any preferences or are you a foodie by nature ? What are your top 5 foods that you couldn’t do without ? and your top 5 favourite cuisines to eat ? Share your thoughts in the comments or put up your link to your own post !
Sexy Saturday : Marilyn Monroe
Who doesn’t know Marilyn Monroe ? She was one of the most popular movie stars of the 1950s and early 1960s and considered to be the ultimate sex symbol at the time.
The woman oozed sex appeal ! So much so that she was often cast in movie roles as the hot and sexy blond. In December of 1953 Marilyn Monroe was featured in the first issue of Playboy Magazine.
Her career spanned approximately 30 movies. She received three Golden Globe Awards; 'World Film Favourite' 1953, Best Actress in a Comedy 'Some Like It Hot' 1960, 'World Film Favourite' again in 1962. The Postal Service featured her on a 32 cent commemorative postage stamp in 1995
She definitely gets my #SexySaturday vote ! What about yours ?
Friday, August 26, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 6 Places
As you all know, I'm taking part in this blog challenge, where I am going to write 10 posts in 10 days. It’s Day 5 and I’m pretty chuffed that I got through the last few days without any delays.
Now that you already know my secrets, my loves & list of fears (don’t hold it against me) and my wants, it’s time to spill the beans on the 6 places I want to visit (I’m assuming they mean places I want to visit)
1/ Hawaii … beautiful beaches, beautiful people, volcanoes and sharks – who doesn’t want to go there ?
2/ South America … Hot men, hot women, salsa dancing, the rain forests, the parties ! oh and I know this might sound nuts – but I’m kinda hoping when I do visit – I get to spot an anaconda !
3/ Africa … given my fascination with wildlife, Africa is definitely a place on my bucket list. Two friends recently went out there and the photographs they have are just unbelievable ! I would love to be able to watch the migration in Masai Mara (and I really want to just be able to spend time getting close to the big cats !)
4/ Leh & Ladakh … Ever since I moved to India, I have wanted to go and visit this picturesque mountain region – but alas opportunity seems to pass me by. I’m hoping that before I leave the country I get to visit here.
5/ Central & Eastern Europe … I’ve done most of Southern Europe but there are still so many more places to explore ! My cousin moved to Russia for a year but unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to go and visit her – so I’m hoping maybe in the next few years I get to go.
6/ Actually I want to visit every country on the map. I love to travel, and love exploring new locations – so perhaps a world tour would be perfect for me.
Have you been to any of the above places ? Do you have any suggestions of what other locations I should add to my ‘Places to Visit’ list ? What about you – what are the Top 6 places (countries / cities) that you would want to visit ?
Thursday, August 25, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 7 Wants
I’ve decided to take part in a blog challenge as mentioned previously, where I am going to write 10 posts in 10 days. Today is Day 4 and I’m about to share all the things that top my ‘want’ list !
1/ My own dream home. Who doesn’t want this right ? I’ve always thought of having a house on the beach since I love the water. My aunt has a gorgeous place on the Palms in Dubai – I’d kill to have a place over there ! If not a house, then a very modern apartment in a high rise with great views; lots of rooms so all my friends & family have a place to crash; a swimming pool and a walk-in wardrobe to put all my clothes, sandals & bags !
2/ Luxury Sports Car. I love Mercedes as a brand. My first car was a CLK 230 and I can’t wait to own another Merc – the new AMG has caught my fancy ! Otherwise a Porche, Lamborghini or Maserati would do just fine.
3/ My own night club. I don’t know where it’s going to be but I want it and I’m going to get it ! (in an ideal world – I’d own a few night clubs actually in different parts of the world)
4/ A puppy. I absolutely love dogs especially German Shepherds & Dobermans ! I haven’t gotten a puppy over the last 4 years as I wasn’t sure how long I was going to sooner than later, it doesn’t make sense to get one here. I’m definitely gonna get one once I find a city / country to settle down in.
5/ To travel the World. I love traveling, and there are so many places that I have yet to discover. I would love to be able to take a year or two off and just go traveling around !
6/ To be successful in whatever I do. I’ve been an entrepreneur for years now and whilst everything is great – there’s always scope for improvement. I know my hard work and dedication will pay off – so there’s nothing wrong in wanting it right.
7/ I want a magic lamp with my own personal genie who grants me 3 wishes every day for the rest of my life ! Hell I might as well throw it out in the universe and hope for the best right ?
That’s my ‘want list’ – now it’s time to share yours. Feel free to list them out in the comments or share the link to your own blog post on the subject.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 8 Fears.
I’ve decided to take part in a blog challenge as mentioned previously, where I am going to write 10 posts in 10 days. Today is Day 3 and I’m about to share my worst fears with you !
1/ Losing my parents. The thought alone makes me tear up and I don’t even know how to imagine a life without them. It doesn’t matter I’ve lived away from them for years – but to not be able to speak to them or see them again – the thought kills me.
2/ Losing my Memory. I’ve always prided myself on being able to keep track of things far and beyond; my Mum says I have this uncanny ability to remember the randomest of dates and comes to me when she can’t recall something.
3/ A slow painful death. We are all going to die one day and I’m cool with that. I just want it to be quick and done with ! The idea of a slow and drawn out death is not only painful but it would hurt my loved ones and I rather not see that happen. I’ve actually said to a friend of mine & my mom, if that were the case – just pull the plug on me.
4/ Not being able to give my children the life that I have had. Everyone wants to give their kids a better life if not the same life they have had. It would eat me up if I wasn’t able to give my kids (when I have them) the life I’ve had (and thinking about it makes me realize I really should save more for that to be able to happen !)
5/ Being a burden to my loved ones. I know one day I might not be able to do all the things I do for myself on a regular basis. I’m gonna hope that never happens. I’d hate to be dependent on someone for my day-to-day needs. This also holds true for being incapacitated. The thought of not having any functioning body parts (hands, legs, brain) gives me the shivers and would pose to be a burden for those around me.
6/ Losing all my teeth. I know it’s gonna happen someday but I actually get nightmares of my teeth falling (actually crumbling) in my mouth !! It’s given me many sleepless nights.
7/ Cockroaches. I’m a chicken shit when it comes to cockroaches. I know they can’t do much to me but just looking at them gives me the creeps. Anything that can live without its head for 9 days needs to be feared !
8/ Losing everything stored on my various Hard Drives. That is enough to give me a nervous break down !! I have everything from my school work, university papers, photographs (this is the most important of them all), work related documents, music, fav TV shows, fav movies etc stored on my HDs. It would drive me nuts if I lost any of this – especially the photographs. We live in a technology driven world and I have no hard copies of anything anymore !
That’s my list of fears for you – now it’s time to share yours. Feel free to list them out in the comments or share the link to your own blog post on the subject.
WW #34 Thinking About A Tattoo ?
Found this on FoundShit.com, and original photo via Steven Humour
I’ve never had a tattoo before so wouldn’t know about the pain threshold one might require to get one done … but I’d be a little concerned if I saw this sign outside a tattoo parlour !
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 9 Loves
I’ve decided to take part in a blog challenge as mentioned previously, where I am going to write 10 posts in 10 days. Today is Day 2 and I’m about to share all the things that top my love list !
1/ Dessert. To say I have a sweet tooth is an understatement. I would rather have dessert all day than have an actual meal. I would pick chocolate mousse over a cheesy pizza (and then eat the pizza after but you get my drift). It’s definitely one of my guilty pleasures !
2/ Photography. I am a self proclaimed cameraholic. I’m permanently attached to my camera. My friends get often get fed up of my constant need to capture all moments; but afterwards they end up appreciating it. We only live once, and if I want to capture all the things I want to look back – then so be it. I already have 8000 pictures from January till present date. My record high has been 18,000 in 2009.
3/ Water. Doesn’t matter if it is in the pool, sea, river, a lake, a small creek or even a waterfall - I am an out and out water baby, true to my sign – Aquarian. Water in any form fascinates me. I can spend hours floating on my back in the pool, watching the sky and losing myself in my thoughts. There’s something so soothing about listening to water flow. For those of you who haven’t been to Rishikesh then you must go and camp out by the river !
4/ Massages & Spa Treatments. I absolutely love getting massages. Who doesn’t right ? Alas, it appears that I end up giving more massages than I am getting in return. I must change that. Having said that I’ve just booked a chocolate massage for myself (see I really can’t resist dessert in any form) and can’t wait for that divine experience !
5/ Nature. From lush green landscapes, to desert terrains, sunsets and night skies. I love to watch the sunset whenever I can, especially over water or between mountains. I love watching clouds and discovering a pattern, object or animal in cloud formations.
6/ Wildlife. I’m an animal person, and have always been enamoured by wildlife. Something about them draws me to them and their natural beauty (especially the big cat family) takes my breath away. I would love to spend 6 months or a year out in the wild just being around the various wildlife and have my camera on hand to capture moments that I might never be able to see again (without the help of Nat Geo or Animal Planet). This particular advert gives me goose bumps ‘It’s In Our Nature’ – so do check it out when you get a chance.
7/ Dogs. I grew up with a German Shepherd & a Doberman. At university I got myself another Shepherd. I’ve always been surrounded by dogs. After my dogs passed away, I haven’t had any pets and feel like something is missing. I can’t wait to get a dog again !
8/ My Family & Friends. Admit it – you were wondering when this would show up on my list of loves hehe Mine is a small house – parents, younger sis & bro and only about 30 odd cousins (including their spouses) and 20 nieces & nephews (and that’s just my Dads’ side of the family!) My Friends are my lifeline and support system. Without them life would be dull and predictable. I know of women who envy me on seeing just how dashingly suave my boys are ! And my girls – Dee, Nomiswamii, Nat, NC, Vixen, Goldie, NB – they deserve a whole post dedicated to them if not more !
9/ My Life. Yes, I love my life. Everything about it. I’ve had the opportunity to travel the world – growing up, university, work, and for pleasure; a family that cares about me; friends that mean the world to me; a flourishing business of my own. I’ve had my ups and downs like any other person, and fortunately I’ve kept my feet firmly planted in the ground to stop me from sinking into a bottomless pit-hole or from getting to far above myself. Damn right I love my life !
That’s my list of loves for you – now it’s time to share yours. Feel free to list them out in the comments or share the link to your own blog post on the subject.
Monday, August 22, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 10 Secrets.
I’ve decided to take part in a blog challenge as mentioned previously, where I am going to write 10 posts in 10 days. Today is Day 1 and I’m going to reveal 10 Secrets.
10 Secrets About Me.
1/ I am a social butterfly; who is just as happy to stay in the cocoon. I can quite reserved, stay-to-myself when left outside of a social ambiance. My mother says I’m the most anti-social social person she has ever met (or social yet asocial person as my mate PK puts it)
2/ It kills me that I don’t have a better relationship with my father. I try to talk to him but there’s really nothing to talk about. Maybe that’s the problem. We’ve spent so long not talking – neither knows how to actually start talking.
3/ Sometimes I feel like I have disappointed my father. He doesn’t need to say it. It comes off in his approach to me. He would have been happier if I was a banker or worked the conventional corporate role.
4/ I used to be super shy to dance in front of a crowd / group until the age of 17. Now I’m a true diva on the dance floor.
5/ I used to sing in the school choir and did a lot of solo stuff too. Then I graduated high school and went to university. Now I almost get stage-fright if you ask me to crank on the karaoke. A few Vodka Redbulls help the anxiety.
6/ I never attended my university graduation. I had flown from London to Montreal to attend; but I got snowed in due to a storm. I hung out with my boys Kimo & JA the whole day at Kimo’s flat. (they were gonna attend the ceremony with me)
7/ I’m scared of Fish. Yup lil’ fishes. I would probably fly out of the water if a fish swam near me. I banged my head against a catamaran in Mauritius when my mate HA threw breadcrumbs over me whilst I was snorkelling. I was practically attacked by a school of yellow & black striped fish ! And don’t even get me started on my reaction to the fish spa treatment I had in Thailand !
8/ I want to go diving with sharks and whales. Yes I know I just said I am scared of fish (the little ones) – not the cool ones like sharks and whales. I almost swam with a humpback whale in Mauritius but since my clients were on board – I had to be responsible and sit back.
9/ I can be an extremely emotionally detached from people; especially if they have f*cked me off. I am able to shut everything out and go on as if ‘this new way’ is the norm. Are you the type that can forgive ? forget ? or just f*ck it ?
10/ It’s really hard to share secrets ! There are still some things which I could have shared but I couldn’t do it. I know you guys won’t think much of it – but its still difficult for me. I keep a lot of things to myself; I even have conversations in my mind if I think it’s too much to do with someone else.
There you have it folks – 10 of my secrets. Now it’s YOUR turn ! What’s your secret ? Feel free to share your secrets in the comments or share the link to your secret post.
MM #54 Laidback Luke - Till Tonight
This is such a sweeeeeeeeeeeet tune !!! I heard it the first time on a mix set by Dj Adi (part of the Submerge crew) and I can’t get the lyrics out of my head !! Here’s another version which is as close as to what I’ve heard …
The lyrics are so simple and that’s what I really like (and makes it easier for me to remember them too !)
Put this track on LOUD and listen to it … I can guarantee that you will be grooving away and you’ll come out feeling pretty damn good about everything once the track is done. Now you can understand why this song has been (literally) playing on repeat in my head !
You kept me pinned down
Kept me locked underground but
Now I finally found the way to freedom
I've been saving up all my strength for this very day
And now that I'm standing at the gate
Open up your arms
And spread them wide
Nothing's gonna hold me back this time
I've been waiting for you all my life
Counting down the minutes till tonight
Open up you heart
And let me in
Let the love finally begin
Cause I've been waiting for you all my life
Counting down every minute until tonight
Sunday, August 21, 2011
10 Day YOU Challenge. 10 Posts. 10 Days.
I found this on a blog called Bits n Pieces and it caught my fancy. It’s a 10-day challenge where I have to disclose the following on my blog to share with all of my neighbours in Blogosphere.
That’s right. 10 Posts in 10 Days. Ever since I started blogging, I’ve always strived to put together at least 2 posts each week / 8 posts a month; which I have maintained (and many a times, exceeded).
I wouldn’t have been able to do that if it hadn’t been for some of my fave bloggers pushing me along the way. Sometimes they ‘tagged’ me in posts and we’d nudge each other to complete those posts; and you know what – it got me a whole lot closer to my blogger friends. It also helped quite a few of this blogs readers to de-lurk.
So I’m going to take on the 10-Day Challenge and ‘tag’ some of you who I’d like to know more about ! Consider yourself warned ! And if you feel like you want to take part in the challenge, just keep sharing your links =)
This should be fun !
Further Reading :
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Tantrums
He shook his head impatiently, “No, it’s not working.”
She didn’t utter a word. It only irritated him.
“Dam woman, you’re after my blood now? Look what you have done.” He showed her a scar.
“I’m going to get you.”
He swayed his jittery hand. She was too fast for him.
“You think will get away with this?
You made my life miserable. It’s no fun to sleep on this bed anymore.”
She blinked.
He snarled.
And then he thumped hard on the bed, held her in his fist and grinned, “Gotcha!”
Another bed bug looked on from the corner.
Abhra Pal is a software engineer based in Kolkata. He loves to write fiction, and some of his works in Bengali have been published. His blog ‘The First Book … I Ever Started Writing’ features pieces of flash fiction, poetry, and some great sketches. Follow Abhra on Twitter.
Sexy Saturday : Gina Lollobrigida
This Sexy Saturday we’re going back to the 50’s courtesy of my Twitter friend @Ravi_Sarkar
Gina Lollobrigida is an Italian actress and was one of the most popular European actresses of the 1950’s and early 1960s. She was also an iconic sex symbol of the 1950’s.
She is now more known for her work in photo journalism and has made a name for herself as a successful sculptress.
Lollobrigida earned the nickname 'The World's Most Beautiful Woman' and has won 6 David di Donatello, 2 Nastro d'Argento, 6 Bambi Awards; and was also nominated three times for the Golden Globe and once for a Bafta.
She gets my Sexy Saturday vote ! What about yours ? If you are featuring a #SexySaturday on your blog, don’t forget to share the link below !
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Are You Happy ?
Sounds like a simple question right ? Yes or No answer ? What about ‘Yes but …’ or ‘Yes, maybe’ ?
I’ve had this info-graphic for a while now and been meaning to post it, but was never meant to really ‘add’ any thoughts to it .. I was just going to leave it as it is … And just as I decided to hit the publish button, I thought to myself ‘it’s not as simple as a yes or a no’ …
Overall I’m happy .. as happy as I can be given the current circumstances that I am in. I’d like to change a few things to be ‘happier’ but that’s where the dilemma comes about. Some of the things I’d like to change involve drastic steps – which I don’t have a problem doing but the pros and cons are balancing out thus making it harder to make a decision on how to go forward with things.
Whilst I ponder over that – let me ask you – are you happy ? Or have you ever found yourself at that cross road where you are happy but could be heading for ‘happier’ ? I’d love to know what kind of thoughts / images went through your mind when you first saw the info-graphic.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
WW #33 Let's Go In This Direction
Found this and had to share it ! I wonder what is found in that direction LOL (if only huh?)
Don’t forget to leave your linky if you are participating in #WW
Thursday, August 11, 2011
My 4th Century ! 400 Blog Posts !
I can’t help but feel super excited as I write this .. This post is my 400th blog post ! That’s right – I said Four Hundred !
Just a few days ago I noticed that whilst I had hit 300 posts earlier this year; I was already close to 400 posts ! And it hasn’t even been a full 6 months !
It feels great looking back at all the sporadic reflections I’ve had over the last 2.5 years. It seems like forever since my I hit my first century i.e 100 posts way back in July 2009.
It’s been an exciting few months on my blog; not only have I been writing more ..
- I lost my guest post cherry a few months ago when I was invited to write guest posts for MetAnotherFrog.com and TheSingleFilez.com !
- and The Diva’s Guests are now sharing their sporadic thoughts directly on my blog- so do check out what my neighbours in Bloggerville have to say
- but the most exciting and yet nerve wrecking part is that this lil’ Diva ‘may’ soon be blogging for 2 well-known online magazines ! do keep your fingers crossed for me !
I’m hoping to spice things up here, and since a few known tweeps on Twitterverse have classified me as a relationship blogger (looks like my blogger voice is growing) – I’m going to be putting together some of my dating (or lack of) escapades.
A huge shout out going out to all of you out there in Blogosphere for taking the time to read up on my very dazed & sporadic reflections; for sharing a piece of you via your comments – it really means a lot to me !
I’ve gotten to know some of my favourite bloggers a lot better; and even have an offline rapport with some of them. So, for those of you who are still lurking – it’s about time you de-lurk and reveal yourselves.
Here’s a toast to my 400th post – and hoping that you will stick around for another 100 reflections (or more).
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
WW #32 Chicken Strips Anyone ?
I can’t recall where I saw this picture (but I will find it and give it due credit) but this was just classic !!
Who wants some free chicken strips ?
Don’t forget to share your linky if you are participating in #WW
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
The Diva's Dating Diary
I’ve been meaning to do this for a while – but haven’t quite gotten around to it .. but now that I’ve done it, might as well share it.
Ever since I moved to Bombay, it just feels like my dating mojo has gone down the drain. All the guys I meet have some sort of issues and I don’t think I have ever been single for so long in a city ! When I mention the word ‘dating’ – people look at me funny with an expression that says ‘dating ? what’s that ?’
The planner in me has put together a little table comprising of all the dates / non-date dates that I have been on over the past 4 years (and honestly this kind of depresses me because if I was anywhere else in the world, I’d probably be in some sort of relationship by now)
As you can see – I’ve had a few men come my way during my stint here in the city but seriously, dating is not easy especially in Bombay ! There are layers of complexity behind any ‘relationships’ but the concept behind dating here is harder than trying to learn an alien language !
Dating is hard enough as it is – but then to have people SMS / BBM you for a date ? Jeeeeeez grow up already ! Have we lost our nerves to technology ? (that’s a whole different post altogether).
The list about pretty much covers all sorts of guys that have approached me or attempted to pursue something but somewhere along the line their game was totally off !
Anyway, you can read more about my dating escapades over the coming weeks. I’m pretty sure you will crack up over some of the stories and also might want to smack some of the guys .. Luckily these ‘dates’ haven’t really put me off dating (as yet), and as my girl TheSingleFilez says, ‘You Gotta Be In It To Win, Right ?’
Monday, August 8, 2011
MM #53 Musiq Soulchild - Just Friends
I woke up this morning, and thought about what tune to share for #MusicMonday and I found myself selecting this track.
A guy I knew at university sent me this track, and told me to listen to it (and anyone who knows me knows I don’t really do music with ‘lyrics’) so I heard it and told him so. He then asked me what I thought about it – ‘erm yea it’s chill, mellow’ …. So NOT the answer he was looking for !
I only clocked on when he sent the lyrics over to me that it was his way of telling me he was into me. No pressure – just wanted me to know. THAT was nice ! (what happened to all of those guys in my life?)
So in honour of Friendship Day .. this one is for all of you out there ! Don’t forget to share your name and your blog so you can find a few more bloggy friends !
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Tickets Please !
It seems like all my FB friends who live in Dubai, California and New York are all traveling and their itineraries make me want to join them too ! (or at least wish there were some proper concert stadiums in Bombay)
One of my newly married couple friends’ have purchased Shania Twain Tickets in Vegas and will be spending their Xmas holidays between slot machines, and Black Jack. Throw in the concert and they are pretty set for a week long holiday. If only my ex who offered to hook me up with a flight to Vegas wants to go during Xmas and not next month ! (and no, I wouldn’t be going for the Shania concert – I just want to go to Vegas!)
Another married couple based in California have scored Pepe Aguilar Tickets for this weekend! They did ask me if I wanted to join them, and whilst the thought is great – the flight to Cali would cost me an arm & a leg. I guess I’ll just have to work in Goa with my client this weekend and attempt to be there in spirit with my friends. If you don’t know of Pepe Aguilar, then do check him out. He’s a 9 time Grammy nominee.
If that’s not enough – my younger cousins are all off to the US for a holiday and have got Allstate Arena tickets for the Katy Perry show next week. (Fine it’s not like I would go to watch Katy Perry but the point is it’s the Allstate Arena!)
Over the weekend I had a chat with a sports-addict buddy of mine who lives in Toronto – he’s headed over to NY in October because he won New York Rangers Tickets at Madison Square Garden ! (ironically he’s going to be watching Toronto Maple Leafs vs New York Rangers). He also mentioned to me that his crew has already purchased SEC Football Championship tickets for December and a group of 25 of them would all be heading out there !
I used to love going for live sports when I lived in London and Montreal – I quite miss that ! The only ‘live’ sport in Bombay is cricket and I’m not really a fan. Been here 4 years now (actually 3 years 11 months) and still not gone to see live match at any of the stadiums; despite one of the big ones being within 7 minutes from my house !
What was the last concert or live sporting event that you attended ? Where was it ? Do share your experiences – at least it’ll help me plan and add to my future vacations !
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Sexy Saturday : Jared Leto
This hottie has appeared in films such as Fight Club; Girl, Interrupted; Panic Room; American Psycho; Alexander; Requiem for a Dream; Lord of War.
Accordingly to Wikipedia, he lived on the streets of New York in preparation for his heroin addict role in Requiem for a Dream, and after the film, moved to Portugal, shaved his head and lived in a monastery for several months to recover !
In 1996 and 1997, Leto was chosen as one of the 50 Most Beautiful People in the World by People magazine. He is quite beautiful isn’t he ? Just look at this big blue eyes !
Who gets your Sexy Saturday vote ?
Friday, August 5, 2011
It's A Beertastic Day !
Did you know that today, Aug 5th, is International Beer Day ? I’m not talking about an Oktoberfest but a day dedicated to all the breweries & bars out here to let them know that the people appreciate them; and what better way to do so than ‘drinking beer’ !
This is a fairly new and worldwide accepted ‘holiday’ on the calendar which came about in 2007. From what I’ve learned, there are apparently 278 celebrations taking place across 138 cities in 23 countries !!
For the life of me, I’ve never quite understood how people enjoy the taste of beer. I suppose it’s an acquired taste. I’m not a beer drinker. I’ve tried beer (including a strawberry flavoured one) and have never enjoyed it; couldn’t even go past 2-3 sips (and that also grudgingly).
But that’s not gonna stop me from raising a (vodka Red Bull) toast with my beer drinking mates ! If you haven’t already done so – bring out the beer folks !
Cheers !
Raise a Beer To :
- International Beer Day : 8 Social Websites for Brew Lovers on Mashable.com
- Get Ready For International Beer Day 2011! by ForeverGeek.com; there are some wicked info-graphics
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Matching The Bride & Groom's Wedding Attire
Everyone watches with anticipation to see what gown, veil, and wedding jewelry the bride will be wearing when she makes her appearance at the back of the church. The same level of interest is not really there for what the groom is wearing, but that does not mean that his outfit is unimportant.
After all, the bride and groom will be seen together all throughout the wedding and in the photographs for eternity. Get some easy tips on matching the bride and groom's wedding attire to make sure that the newlyweds look picture perfect 
together.
When we talk about matching the bride and groom's attire, what that really means is that their general style is complementary. This is a fairly easy task. Most brides have a strong sense of what image their wedding dress and accessories convey.
One bride might declare that her gown is the ultimate in simple elegance, while another bride has chosen the perfect dress for a romantic garden wedding. Some brides might go for drama in their attire and custom wedding jewelry, while others prefer a retro feeling. When the bride can define the general style of what she plans to wear, that concept can then be applied to the groom's suit or tuxedo.
Let's say for instance that the bride will be wearing
a tailored white silk Mikado wedding dress with a pearl tin cup necklace for an outdoor wedding at yacht club. The ideal attire for the groom at this style of wedding would be a classic navy blue suit. He can pick up the wedding colours with a tie that pulls them into his outfit.
In keeping with the crisp style of the bridal gown and the location, a small nautical motif on the tie like anchors or compasses would be a wonderful little detail. The groom can choose a shirt in a classic colour like pale blue or a pastel pink or yellow to complete his outfit.
1950's inspired wedding dresses have been very popular recently. When the bride's attire is inspired by a particular era, the groom should do his best to tie into that. So if the wedding is formal, he can choose a shawl collar tuxedo or one with a white dinner jacket rather than a modern tux. An easy way to see what the common wedding fashions were from a particular time period is to look at vintage cake toppers from that decade. If the bride is going for more of a funky retro '50s vibe, the groom can opt for a slim fitting suit with a slender tie. Add a tie bar for a great period detail. If your fiancé is up for it, he can even wear a hat.
When the bride's dress is very modern or cutting edge, the groom should follow suit (pun intended!). Any suit can be given a more unique character by choosing a shirt in an unexpected colour like deep aubergine or cobalt blue. Just don't choose 
a colourful suit, or you might bring to mind the dreaded powder blue tuxedos of the 1970s! A sleek cut suit will be the most contemporary looking. Add a modern touch by wearing a creative boutonniere. Instead of a traditional rose, go for something more unusual like a succulent or a whimsical boutonniere made from found objects.
Naturally a theme wedding calls for the groom to match the theme. So if you are having a Goth wedding, he should wear a black suit (and maybe a skull and crossbones tie!), or a linen suit for a beach wedding, and so on. When the bride and groom take care to coordinate their attire, they will look absolutely flawless together.
Bridget Mora is interested in wedding gowns and fashion, wedding jewelry, and wedding etiquette. Get more of her helpful wedding planning tips when you sign up for the free Silverland Jewelry newsletter. You will also receive previews of new wedding jewelry designs and exclusive discounts for members!