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The Fabulous Bitch over at Splintered Life has bestowed upon me … hold your breath now …

Considering she’s never seen me (then again neither have you) – I am flattered that she thinks of my blog and me as beautiful =)  Actually here’s what she said ..

Sporadic Reflection
Love this girl. She is dazzling, gorgeous, fabulous and just one helluva of a hot bitch lovely blogger.

So I’d like to take a bow in one of my sexiest dresses and thank The Fabulous Bitch for honouring me with this award ! If you haven’t already rushed across to check her blog out – then you’re honestly missing out on some super sassy writing !

The rules of this award are:

• Thank the person who nominated you for this award
• Copy the award and place it in your blog
• Link the person who nominated you for this award
• Tell us 7 interesting things about you
• Nominate 7 bloggers and link to their blogs

7 Dazed Facts About The Diva ….

1.  I am a self-proclaimed chocoholic. Give me dessert over a meal any day and I’ll be happy.  It’s definitely one of my guilty pleasures. I love desserts so much so that my signature in one of my email accounts is …

All I really need is chocolate, but a little love now and then doesn't hurt! -- Me

2.  I am a diva on the dance floor.  Ironically – as a kid – I was super shy to get on the floor.  But as I grew older and discovered the joys of nightclubs; I have gone on to daze those who watch me on the dance floor ;) Whether it’s R&B, Hip Hop or House music – I love to dance.  Give me a good dance partner and damn I’ll show you some moves.  One of my very good friends HRH is a wicked dancer – and damn this man can salsa like no tomorrow.

3.  I have a super low boredom threshold .. hence like to learn about anything and everything.  I need constant change.  I don’t like routine.  Maybe for a few things (never mess around with gym / yoga timings)– but generally I don’t routine.  I love to learn – and took up languages (French, German, Arabic) as they came easily to me – next on the list is Spanish & Italian. When I entered the corporate world - I couldn’t handle a  typical 9-5 job.  I tried it and had to leave it.  That’s how I got into event management.  Every project is different.  Perhaps this is also why I could never get a tattoo or pierce random body parts.  It would be a fad for a bit and then I’d want to get rid of them.

4.  I don’t believe in sleeping.  My cousin NC reckons I’m an insomniac – which I’m not.  I just think sleeping is a waste of time.  If I sleep more than 5 hours – I get cranky as hell.  I have never slept in the afternoon till date.   My mom told me that as a baby – I would prefer to play in my crib than go to sleep.  Having said that – I don’t like to sleep alone (who doesn’t) .. I find myself drifting off in to a deep slumber when there’s someone next to me who I can cuddle up to.  My German Shepherd always jumped onto the bed and would cozy up to me – got some of my best sleep then !  At the moment I have neither a dog nor a boyfriend …. hmmm maybe that’s why sleep doesn’t seem to come easily.

5.  My life is digitally captured.  In 2008 I had 19,500 photos; 2009 saw 15,307 photos only because I had broken my ankle and wasn’t allowed to go out for about 2 months.  We’re only 2 months into 2010 and I have 3534 photos already. Oh and did I mention that I have 288 albums up on FB ? Yeah my life is definitely digitally captured.  I’ve got my photos sorted chronologically by the year and by date .. and it feels amazing to know that all I have to do is flip through those pics to see what I was up to at a particular time in my life.  Sure I’ve pissed a few people off with my digital obsession – but it’s okay – at some point they’ve all come back to ask for certain photos; and have more often than not – used my photos for their profile pics on FB hehehe.  Just today my boy Rockstar was bitching me out for taking his photos (he hates my camera / hates his pic being taken) and went on to try to make feel guilty by suggesting that for every picture I click he’ll just spend less time with me :( 

6.  I have way too many diva style personalities.  I kid you not.  My boys treat me like one of the lads (albeit with boobs & a hot ass).  I am constantly partying like a rock star ! NC doesn’t know where I get the energy levels from.  I often come  across as a very cold hearted bitch; I’ve been known to cut people out of my life the minute they breach my trust – and it doesn’t matter if they’ve known me my whole life either.  I am fantastic with kids (ok only with my nieces & nephews) which is a side of me most don’t get.  I am a mush ball when it comes to animals (I even cried in Ice Age when Diego was getting clawed by the other sabers).  In short, I could be your best friend, your lover, your fantasy or if you’re unlucky enough to get the wrong side of me - your worst enemy.  Alanis Morissette said it much better though :

I’m a bitch I’m a lover
I’m a child I’m a mother
I’m a sinner I’m a saint
I do not feel ashamed
I’m your hell I’m your dream
I’m nothin’ in between
You know, you wouldn’t want it any other way

7.  I’m so simple … it’s complicated.  And that’s the truth.  I am who I am. I don’t try to hide it. I am about as honest and upfront as you can get.  If I combine my FB & Blogger profile descriptions – it would read … ‘what you see is what you get .. should you choose to see beyond the obvious then we'll definitely get along :)  Think you can handle that ?    My best mate Nat (aka @britgirlz) put this on her status a few minutes ago …. Be who You are, say what You feel. Those who matter, don't mind. Those who mind, don't matter.  See what I mean – I’m simple, and people complicate it ! Ironically I happened to write a post some time back with the same title.  Just read it and had a laugh to myself.

Enough about me … DRUM ROLL … and now it’s time for what you all have been waiting for … the Nominees …(catch them on Twitter & check their blogs) …

1. Nando from Nandoism … he’s just oh-so-fab and a damn good writer too ! his video blogs will make you squeal in delight !
2. Jack .. and he’s f*cking in Brooklyn ! .. Ladies rush over to his page right now and be prepared to let your jaws drop .. and once you read his writing; if you’re panties aren’t in a twist, I’ll change my name.
3. Cole over at Pre Middle Age … she’s outrageously funny; her life lessons are great; and she’s got sass ! and she’s an event planner like me :)
4. Cereal Daters over at I Hate The Way You Eat Cereal .. created by 3 very strong and expressive ladies – this is a fab blog if you haven’t read it as yet !
5. KCKool over at KCKools’ Blog … it’s quite a pretty blog; and beautifully maintained.  Lots of interesting subjects on there. Swing by and show some love.
6. Kimmy over at KimmyStyle .. now that’s where classics and style intersect .. she’s got a great blog collection and the pictures will take your breath away.
7. Carol over at Balsam Ponds … one of the first few bloggers I came across; she is extremely artistic and creative and makes some of the loveliest cards that I have seen.  I only know Carol through her writing and once you read her blog – you will understand why she is a Beautiful Blogger.

If you fancy checking out some more uber funky bloggers – do check out the Swank Bloggers who Give Good Blog; The Awesome Girl Bloggers, and The Bitch Fab Bloggers

Hope you enjoy these Beautiful Bloggers as much as I do =) Happy Reading and don’t forget to show some comment lurve whilst dropping by their blogs !

changing lifestyles changing times event management event planning having a party in a budget party planning process tips for planning a party

Planning a party ? I mentioned in my previous post that I’m in the process of organizing my birthday party … being an events planner I’m already fickle as it is when it comes down to the planning process .. so decided to share a few tips with you all on the process. 
It sounds simple – but believe me – it’s effective.  The sad part is that most of us ‘know’ this but ‘don’t apply it’ when we have to get around to planning a party.
1. Location & Site Visit.  Always go and visit the venue for your party.  Doesn’t matter if it’s a 5-star hotel; a banquet hall or your grandmothers country house. 

• The location tends to determine how many people will attend the party.  The closer you are to home – the more people are likely to turn up.  The further out the party – its a more a selected bunch of mates that will show. 
• Sketch out a map if the venue is not well-known.  I drew out a map using the paint program and used it for my party last year.
• Download a map from the venue website and send it to your friends.  Email it, or put it up on a Facebook invite.
• Take note of full address with landmarks (in case people call for directions)
• For venues that are on the outskirts of the city
  • Time the drive so that guests know what to expect.
  • Use a sign board or placard if possible.  I printed 3 signs on t-stands to help my guests with directions.
  • Take pictures of landmarks and post them on  your FB invite; e-vite or email to your friends so that they know what landmarks to watch out for.

2. Invitation. A proper card invite is a No-No unless it’s big occasion i.e. wedding; anniversary; etc If you have the budgets – go for it – if it’s not necessary – skip it.  Make sure you give your guests at least 2 weeks heads-up that you’re having a party.

• E-vites are IN ! There are quite a few websites that one can use to create customized e-vites.  And if you are feeling creative – then use Photoshop (even the basic Paint or Powerpoint program for the novices) to create something of your choice.  Here’s what I’ve made for my party :)
• SMS.  Small or large party – a text message is sufficient for close friends.
• Facebook E-vite.  Almost everyone uses FB and with its ‘create an event’ features – organizing a party becomes very simple as you can get quite a good estimate on a head count.
  • You can post the landmark photos; maps in the event page
  • Guests can post their queries; inform you of what they are bringing etc so makes your life a lot simpler !

3. Your Guests Will Be Hungry !  Is food going to be served ? How is it being served ? Who is organizing food ?

• Caterer or No Caterer that is the question.  Do you have a budget for food ? That ought to determine what you should do.
• If the party is at home or at a private venue (not a hotel or banquet) then you could make quite a few easy and filling dishes yourself.  My aunt hosted an engagement party for her friends’ daughter – here’s what the buffet was like.
• Or just tell everyone that it’s a pot-luck party and to bring a dish along.  
  • Of course – don’t rely on everyone to do that.  Select a handful of close friends who will definitely be there for the party and assign them some dishes to bring.
  • My party is a BBQ pool party and my close mates are all helping out. NC is hooking up the humus, frankies, and jello shots J Neh is making brownies, potato salad and bringing along Taboo. I’ve got my mum making Mexican and pasta salads.  The last BBQ I went to was a semi-pot luck party.  Check out the dishes on the table.
  • Easy dishes for DIY parties : potato salad; Caesar salad; mixed fruit salad; pasta salad; spaghetti in tomato, cream or pesto sauce; sour cream dips; pita breads; olive & cheese sticks; corn on the cob; grilled chicken;

4. Booze & Drinks. Every party needs drinks and if you mess that part up – you’re going to have some cranky guests on hand.

• Get your close mates together and figure out what the general group that’s being invited drinks.
• Minimum Quantities for a party of 30-50 pax :
  • Vodka x 10-12
  • Whiskey x 5
  • White Rum x 5
  • Dark Rum x 2
  • Gin x 1
  • Red & White Wine x 12; and
  • 3 cases of Beer.
  • If you and your friends like to do shots – hook up some Tequila (x 2) or Sambuca (x 2).
• Mixers & Sodas :
  • 8 x Orange Juice;
  • 8 x Cranberry;
  • 8 x Mixed Juice;
  • 2 x Lychee;
  • 10 x 2 litre Cokes;
  • 5 x 2 litre Sprite;
  • 1 x case Soda (24) ;
  • 12 x tonic water;
  • 1 x case of 1 litre mineral water
• Bartenders. If you have the budget – hire them ! That’s one headache that you can be rid off. They know just how to utilize the booze and can come up with some great cocktails to be served. I’ve got 2 guys booked for my party.
  • Most agencies for bartenders also provide glasses, garnishes, and bring along all the shakers etc.
  • They can also advise you how many bottles you require depending on the number of guests.
• BYOB.  For any private party that you are hosting – there’s no harm in suggesting to your guests to bring a bottle with them. 
• Every bottle counts.  If you have 5 close friends who you can count on to bring a bottle each – that’s 5 less bottles that you need to stress about organizing. 

5. Music. Fancy yourself as a DJ ? Got friends who have killer tunes ? Any friends who DJ? Music is the essence of any good party.

• The problem with DIY music is that you have to make sure you have a basic sound system with good enough speakers; a good selection of music or if you are an i-pod user, then the i-pod speakers and a place to keep it on charge for the duration of the party.
• I always recommend getting a DJ (I’m an events planner what else can you expect) and once again this year – I’ve booked myself a DJ who’s coming down with his sound and speakers as well as lights for the evening part of the party.
• If you’re having a house party – and have surround sound on your TV – cheat a little - hook up a hard drive with music to the TV and play your tunes from there.

6.  The Guest List.  The key to being a great host is to look back on all the invitations you have ever received for a party and make sure to include them on your party list.

• What if it’s too many people ?  It doesn’t matter.  Always reciprocate to the people who have invited you.  They may or may not turn up but at least you’ve covered yourself.
• Business & Pleasure.  Hmmm this one is tricky.  It might be slightly awkward inviting work friends / clients and social friends to the same party.  It really depends on your relationship with them.  General rule of thumb – don’t invite the work mates or clients unless you are already a part of the same general social circle !
• Mix-It-Up.  Make sure you’re calling people who know how to have a good time regardless of the situation.  The last thing you need is a bunch of people complaining.  Call people who can mingle with others even if they don’t know them.

7.  Make lots of Lists.  Chalk down the things that you need – and mull it over with a mate.  Better yet – I swear – ask your mom.  She’ll be able to tell you something that you’ve forgotten.

• Guest list. Names of all guests & potential adder-on’s with them.
• Who’s bringing what.  Nothing wrong with selecting a handful of close friends and assigning them responsibilities.
• Budget Sheet.  Keep track of what you are spending and how much you are spending.  Looking at this sheet will help you either cut down on some expenses or spread the load amongst close friends or at least figure out a few deals. 
• Who can help.  You’d be surprised at the wealth of info & contacts that you have amongst your friends circle.  Someone might know a good caterer; or DJ; or an alcohol supplier.  Don’t be afraid to ask for contacts.  It’s all about saving where you can.

So there you go … straight from the event planner herself ..  my 7 must-do’s for a great DIY party !
p.s. as an update … I’ve already managed to get more than enough food coming in for my party between 6 friends !

almost year end changing changing lifestyles changing times half a year gone by leaving jobs

I can’t believe it’s the start of December already ! This year has really flown by … Well maybe not all parts of it – but majority of the year has for sure.  It just feels like a few weeks ago I was talking about having a half a year go by …

Today is the start of my last week at work … I’ve gone ahead and resigned from the company I have worked with for the last two years as an events and wedding planner.  I wouldn’t have minded staying on but my immediate boss who I reported to for two years, HA, resigned about a month and a bit ago.  And just prior to that in September, another colleague whom I had worked with directly for 2 years, also resigned =(

I filled out all my exit forms and have started packing my things … damn it’s going to be a task ! It was in early May that I had shifted offices and had managed to pack my things into 4 large cartons and shift them to the other branch office down the road.  Now I have to pack all over again.  I hate packing !

As I lay on my bed writing this post, I’m wondering how to get rid of this dull throbbing headache and the ache in my left ankle … Looks like I might have to go back for physiotherapy … My foot hasn’t hurt like this in a while now and I’m guessing all the walking around (and some dancing too .. heck and some driving as well) is taking its toll again … but seriously how the hell is one supposed to go about day-to-day things without the use of their damn feet ??  I’m just grateful that I have feet and legs ! and the rest of my body parts intact too !

 

arranged marriages changing lifestyles changing times people's experiences people's perceptions perceptions ranting relationships

There is turbulence lurking under the calm surface exterior.

It turned out to be a late night on Saturday as I was finishing off the final master interviews for the documentary that I have been taking part in.

Just so that you don’t feel completely confused and in-over your head .. The documentary gives you an insight into the lives and perceptions of an NRI living in India (me); an Indian girl – NB - who is born and raised in India and an NRI guy – AC - living overseas.  The documentary goes on to look at each character’s perspectives on relationships and thoughts on arranged and love marriage.

In some of my previous posts, I have discussed the type of person you are attracted to as well as the importance of mental and physical chemistry between people. 

As some of you know, I’ve also set myself up as a guinea pig whilst exploring the route to marriage by way of the typical Indian matchmaker / priest as well as a matrimonial website (and I’ve done this because in 2 years of being here – it just seems more complicated when it comes to meeting men who know what they want !) 

I came to realise a few things …

1. No one is what they appear to be
2. I cannot and will not compromise my personality and who I am for ANYONE
3. I am not arranged marriage material

I already knew these things but now after taking part in the documentary – I just ‘know’ those things. 

I got to hear a few things said by the male protagonist and somehow I just wasn’t surprised that a good looking, smart, educated male would go on to ‘talk down’ on the modern woman and her ways of life .. specifically – he was talking about ME !

This man – who has known me for all of a week perhaps – has spoken out about how he felt I was ‘clingy’, ‘could not take a hint that he was not interested’, ‘overly flirtatious’ and apparently ‘disrespectful to my mother’ ! 

This description is in the context of me being someone who is considering ‘an arranged marriage’ (and by arranged I don’t mean that I would just jump at whoever my parents point me at but in the sense that I’m at least open to the idea of meeting men who are interested in a serious LTR via my family / relatives etc)

That’s just a load of f**king crock mate !  At some point whilst I was being interviewed I eventually lashed out and pretty much cussed this man out.

Why ?? Because in his entire description of me – he failed to mention that HE made a MOVE ON ME - we kissed and fooled around a bit (and really it was just a bit!) and of course he totally forgot about that ! So I told it like it was ! The irony behind all of this was that I dropped him to the airport a few days later and even hung out with him for an hour in the waiting lounge where he pecked me good bye … Some people are just twisted in their thoughts.  Maybe he should have thought about the fact that perhaps his actions led to me flirting more with him than I would normally do so.

This is why I’m not made for an arranged marriage scenario … there are too many ‘do’s & don’ts’ that one has to follow – especially the women … there’s way too much protocol on how one should behave, and what is considered acceptable in the company of a man who is looking to get married.  That’s just rubbish as far as I go … who is the man trying to marry – ME or the FAKE ME who has to pretend to be someone that the guy would ‘want to’ marry ??

In one of my previous posts I wrote “You can be assured  that the other person is never actually going to understand your view point because they are mentally just not ready to accept anything beyond their personal experiences and understanding”

In another post, I wrote about Actions & Interpretations – and I honestly believe it holds true especially with the newfound knowledge I have of this man – who I thought was a pretty cool guy.   His actions – intentional or not (and he’d have to be pretty thick not to realise that everything he says is going to be shown on TV and people will make assumptions and my family will also watch this!) – have condoned any future of even a friendship between us. 

I wrote a poem – Actions -  quite a few years ago which I reckon summarizes the situation. 

Apologies to all for the rant – but I was really annoyed about this !  I don’t judge you – you don’t judge me  - is it that hard a concept to grasp ??

changing lifestyles changing times classic moments captured just for fun motorbiker series motorbikes in India mumbai traffic people's experiences real life

Further to my last post about how Al Pitcher uses photography of day to day things found in whichever city he is in … I reckon that I too have quite a few ad hoc images that I feel can only be seen in Mumbai (and around India) …

Drum Rolls …. Raising Curtains ….

The Motorbiker Series

It’s quite rare to see ‘just’ two (yes the number 2) people on a motorbike in India … I’ve travelled to Bangalore, Delhi, Calcutta, Kerala, and Goa .. and everywhere – it’s the same ! You get more than 2 people on a motorbike !

Here’s a classic that I captured with not 1 or 2 or 3 but FIVE passengers – of which only ONE was wearing a helmet !

Talk about recklessness !  The traffic out here alone is enough to worry me from ‘inside’ a car !

I can’t even imagine how people on motorbikes feel !

If that’s not bad enough – traffic in Mumbai especially - is so haphazard – no one believes in indicating; the horns are used as naturally as we breathe – it’s deafening ! 

Whilst driving to Pune one weekend .. but before that I will digress as there’s a fab joke that Al Pitcher did on this .. Pune a city about 180 kms away from Bombay is pronounced Poo-neh, also be known as Puna.  Al was talking to one of the reporters and said how he was looking forward to coming and performing in ‘PUNE’ – pronounced ‘pyoon’ but meaning ‘peon’ as in attendant / messenger in India …

So anyway going back to my drive in Pune – I came across the rare sight of just two people on a motorbike …

Seems alright doesn’t it … two people, both WITH helmets as well … quite an smooth looking road and quite empty as well from this angle … Now take a closer look at them ….

yup … that’s right … She is READING a BOOK whilst sitting as a pillion passenger !!!  Damn and I had thought WOW – I have found the model motor biker couple who could inspire and influence others to wear helmets and ride around safely !  But seriously – hats off to this woman for being brave enough to read whilst on the back of a motorbike ! Don’t get me wrong, I love reading but not at the risk of my life !

And on that note – if you don’t find multiple riders on a motorbike … you will always find the solitary hero riding around like there’s no care in the world …

… and it’s because he knows that he’s going to be safe on the roads leading to Chandigarh because he’s got his HELMET tucked into his ARM !

That’s all from me on the Motorbiker Series … I do have many more funny moments captured and will share it with you all over the next few weeks … After all can’t give you all the photographic evidence I have managed to acquire in one shot now – I got to make sure you come back for more … =)

changing lifestyles changing times chemistry of love conversation topics cupid's love arrow deepak chopra desire dream of you heart and arrow hearts with arrows looking for love

Imagine a Heart.  A Heart with an arrow going through it.  Not a horrible bloody arrow but a nice arrow.  How do you feel when you see that image ?  What is that image trying to evoke from us ?

 

I sat down a few minutes ago and sort of got lost in a ramble of thoughts when this image flickered in my minds’ eye and just remained there.

Growing up – I remember seeing hearts drawn across note books in school; on dirty car windows where someone would smear that across; as graffiti on some walls; even I have drawn that image a few times … There was an unsaid acceptance that the hearts represented people’s feelings of love – you know – like if they didn’t know how to express themselves – a heart just says it all … well something like that anyway …

Cupid – the God of Erotic Love & Beauty is normally associated with a heart and arrow.  Cupid is meant to induce desire and lust between people … and nothing says ‘Desire’ better than this !

The heart being a love interest and the arrow is Cupid’s arrow signifying that one has found love in that heart. It is believed that Cupid can induce love with a single shot from his arrow.  Hence the saying ‘hit by Cupid’

Whilst laying on my bed, focusing on this image – I thought … how could that possibly represent something ‘nice’ … look at it really …

An arrow … cutting into your heart …. that just sounds painful ! I reckon that arrow and heart are an accurate representation of how someone would feel after a break-up with a loved one …. the sheer pain of it all could be pretty excruciating !

This is what I’m feeling and thinking of when I think of that image … There’s an arrow lodged into your heart … it’s just pierced right through you and it’s stuck there … and the only way to get it out is to pull it out … when you do, that’s when the blood spills out … all over you … and that’s how your heart breaks … that’s how heart ache came about I suppose … It makes sense doesn’t it ?

Considering my current state of mind and how my thought process has come about – if it were me with that arrow piercing through my heart – I’d feel sort of pinned down almost I think … As if that arrow was stuck and it was hard to get out …

In today’s society – we are all looking for love … and we’d be liars if we claimed that we are not.  Have you not dreamed of finding the one to call your other half ? (aaaaaaah now I know why they make those half heart pendants hehe) .. I suppose I have dreamed about you

Nonetheless, over the years, we would have learned that to love, could also mean to lose love .. and hence we ought to be prepared to get hurt if we are going to love someone … and be prepared to love again …

However when you look at that heart image in front of you – it doesn’t appear to give off any negative sort of vibe .. nor does it really make you think that deeply into something which is meant to be a happy and cheerful image !

I just Googled ‘heart with arrow’ and all the pictures that came off – seemed to  come off quite nicely. 

Some images were really ‘cute’ and ‘feminine’ … others were stronger, with ribbons,  had more shadows playing on them … or you get a romantic heart drawn out in sand on the beach …. It’s nice to look at right ?

……

………

…………

But really … look at it … how can you feel nice when you have a damn arrow going through your heart ??? 

I have nothing against the whole Cupid hitting you with love arrows – but realistically … doesn’t make a whole lot of sense does it .. or maybe I’ve just had a really long day !  Would love to know your thoughts on this …

blog awards blogger friends celebrating changing lifestyles changing times mixed emotions multiple realities people's perceptions random thoughts

I’ve barely been gone a few days and have been overwhelmed with a few statistics that have hit me straight in the face !

Edit Made @ 23:38

Okay I stand corrected – and am embarrassed as well … My first award was in fact given to me on 25th August by the Mysterious Kaddu !!  Unfortunately I didn’t see this award and might have really upset Kaddu which obviously I do not want to do – so am trying to make amends here … please forgive me !

Kaddu has given me the Zombie Chicken Award !  Wherein the recipient believes in the Tao of the zombie chicken – excellence, grace and persistence in all situations, even in the midst of a zombie apocalypse.

I am now fearful of the zombie chickens who might come after me in my sleep since I missed out on this but hopefully I have redeemed myself !

The Fabulous Bitch over at The Joys of My Splintered Life In Small Town has bestowed upon me …. my very first blog (actually my 2nd but I didn’t realize this) award on 27th August 2009 ! 

And this isn’t even the Bloggers Choice Awards that I am still in the running for – which I had done for a bit of a laugh !

The Fabulous one has decided that My Blog is So Swank !

Before I could even prepare my thank you and acceptance speech, I got caught up with the documentary I mentioned earlier and some intense physiotherapy sessions … The point is as I sat down to write up my lovely speech … wait for it … hold your breath … the Fabulous One has moseyed over to my blog just yesterday with … I Give Good Blog Award !!!

I’m so damn gobsmacked I have no idea what to say or do and how to react ! I’m overwhelmed that I have received not one but three awards in a space of one week ! and that too, from two very amazing bloggers !

I’d like to take a minute to thank you all for dropping by my Sporadic Reflections – whether you meant to go through my blog; came across me via Twitter; perhaps I’m part of your drop list for Entre Card ; maybe you happened to come by as part of your 30 link visits on Link Referral … or if you were just coerced into reading it because I wanted your opinion … but really because you dropped by and took a few minutes to read what was going on in my mind at the time and perhaps even commented on my thoughts.

I started writing years ago – in school actually – it all started with some short stories and huge descriptive essays as part of my course work and then ironically because I didn’t enjoy the poetry as part of my literature course – I took to randomly writing some of my own poetry ! Which was a surprise to me and even bigger one for my professor of the time !

I kept up with the small pieces of poetry but never really collected it anywhere – they would be scribbled on pieces of paper – and one fine day – I picked all the scraps up and compiled them into a notebook …. I’ve since moved 3 countries and my notebook is sitting in a storage unit somewhere in London *sigh*

I made this blog account in 2007 but didn’t actually post anything until June / July of 2008 … those were my very old poetry pieces which also happened to be published on Poetry.com ! It’s been an evolving process since then … Being the planner that I am – I thought I would keep separate blogs about separate topics but then realised ‘yeah right !!!’

So it’s all out here at Dazed Reflection a.k.a Sporadic Reflections and I officially have 2 awards to my name … not bad I’d say =)

Now what do I do with these awards – the Swank Blog award has no rules except to pass it on and was developed by Atomic Lola  whilst the rules of the I Make Good Blog come about from Jenny Mac over at Let’s Have a Cocktail and are quite simple – make a cocktail, pick out 4 of your favourite bloggers and tell them why you think they give good blog. 

I reckon now would be a good time for the drum roll and trumpets whilst I hand out the THREE above awards to some very deserving blogs.  I will try to do this every month – because I can’t very well award ALL my favourite blogs !  So here goes …

The Joys of My Splintered Life in Small Town by the Fabulous Bitch :)  She is one of my favourite bloggers with a distinct style of writing that ranges from being sarcastically hilarious to down right bitchy ! And since I got my first award from her – I feel that I must share it back with her whether its part of the rules or not :)

Sex Lies & Dating In the City by Simone Grant … I have already mentioned Simone in a few of my earlier posts, and her blog is about as Honest as you can get ! It’s a fantastic insight into the mind of a single woman living in New York ! Her writing style is not only addictive but it’s practical too :)  It leaves you coming back for more !

Nigerian Interrupted by Jollof  … This is definitely the blog of one crazy Nigerian ! He’s witty, eloquent, well versed and down right funny ! I found his blog via Link Referral and am always back for some more – after all I have to make a trip to Nigeria sometime soon and what better way to enjoy a new place than with a local :)

Is This Really Happening ? by Chris Mollo … I only recently discovered this blog but feel it deserves the awards.  This is straight up – in your face – no holds barred type of blog.  The language can be a bit explicit and the content is not always for the faint hearted but all that stuff he’s writing about is really happening ! Someone has to voice an opinion and Chris is doing a wicked job of it !

Gay Arab Boy by Wilmaryad O’Scallas, love child of Oscar Wilde and Marie Callas … I came across this blog months ago, and got back to it a few weeks ago … I am awed by his writing style and the simplicity behind each sentence that leads to profound thoughts.  I’ve grown up in an Arab country, although more modern than others, but I can understand where he is coming from.  Check this Blog out – there are some fab posts in here.

I’m saving the best for last – who was in fact going to be my first nomination for next month but since I’m on a redemption trip …

Miss-teerious by Kaddu … there is lots to be said about this enigmatic personality that shows up all over her blog ! There is a free spirit behind the blog that delves into a range of thoughts from healing chakras to minute noodles; blogging tips & tricks to tagging conspiracies ! I’m quite glad to have come across her via the Indi Blogger site :)

And now my dear Kaddu – can you please tell me how I can put up my awards in my side bar ??

 

changing lifestyles changing times filming my life multiple realities real life documentary shoe shopping

A couple of weeks ago, my mom’s best friend, SK, rang me up and asked me if I would be a part of a project of hers.

A bit of background on SK – she is a film maker … and has won awards at Cannes Film Festival … and she had just asked me to be a part of a documentary !

Not just any documentary – but a ‘real’ life documentary that would follow me around and highlight the life of an NRI (non-resident Indian) who has recently come to India.

I won’t give away all the details but it’s been a really fun few days – not to mention absolutely exhausting !!!

Between having a camera crew turn up at my house and being ‘miked’ so that they can hear everything I say – I have also gone out for ‘dress fittings!’ ….

Yup you read that correctly … one of the perks is that I get to keep the outfits =) So last week Friday, I got to go over to a designers store and pick out 6 outfits ranging from evening formal wear, an afternoon sun dress as well as some formal Indian outfits.

If that’s not enough – I get to go shoe shopping this weekend along with a spa treatment !!

changing lifestyles changing times computer tips electro pollution electronic waste technology technology flu technology related health issues tips to prevent computer vision syndrome

I came across this title in a magazine called ‘Dignity’ whilst undergoing a funky electro-shock treatment at the physiotherapist this morning.  Don’t worry it’s not as painful as it sounds.

It got me thinking and I made a quick note on my phone on the main topics the article highlighted.

So what is Technology Flu ?  Basically, it can be described as ailments that can afflict mankind due to changing lifestyle, computerization, and hi-tech living.

 

Computer Syndrome

In today’s day and age, computers are almost indispensible in most office environments.  According to Wendy Strousse Watt (O.D), people who spend more than two hours on a computer each day will experience symptoms of CVS or Computer Vision Syndrome.

The most common symptoms include headaches, focusing difficulties, burning eyes, tired eyes, general eyestrain, aching eyes, dry eyes, double vision, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and neck and shoulder pain.

The best ways to avoid this is to remember the 3 R’s : Refocus; Readjust; and Remove !

Refocus - give your eyes a break from the computer screen whenever possible using the 20-20-20 rule, meaning that roughly every twenty minutes you should pick a point about twenty feet away and focus on it for twenty seconds.

Readjust your sitting position so as to avoid strain on the back, hip and hands.

Remove yourself from your desk every few hours – go for a walk; take a coffee break – go wash your face – but don’t sit in front of the screen for hours on end.

Use eye drops to reduce irritation and dry eyes.  If you wear glasses – there are special computer glasses that you can ask your optician about. 

CVS can affect people of all ages but it is of growing concern in children as their eyes are not developed as yet.  Ensure that children have good lighting where the computer is; the work station is properly arranged; the screen should be an arms’ length away or 30 inches away from your face and lower than eye level.

Music Blues

How many of you have an ipod or mp3 player ? Do you use headphones or headsets when using your mobile phone ?  Nowadays, even young kids are using headphones !

Earphones are generally placed directly outside of the ear canal however they are not capable of delivering the same dynamic range that a full-sized headphone can offer for a given level of volume.

The result of this, is that we often use headphones at higher volumes to drown out noise – which in turn increases the risk of hearing-loss.

To avoid such damage, it’s better to use the full size head sets and to keep the volume at a reduced level.  If you like listening to loud music, then you should invest in noise cancelling head phones.

Electro Pollution

I read this term for the first time today and it’s scary !

Do you listen to the radio, watch TV, use your mobile phone  or use a microwave oven? All these devices make use of electromagnetic waves and in turn give off electro pollution and electromagnetic radiation (EMR).

Radio waves, microwaves, visible light, and x rays are all examples of electromagnetic waves that differ from each other in wavelength.

Dictionary.com defines electro pollution as

“nonionizing electromagnetic radiation propagated through the atmosphere by broadcast towers, radar installations, and microwave appliances, and the magnetic fields surrounding electrical appliances and power lines, which is believed to have polluting effects on people and the environment; also called electromagnetic smog”

So what can we do about it ?  Prudent Avoidance according to the Feng Shui Network.  In essence, wherever possible, we must try to reduce the use of electrical equipment; more-so in our bedrooms as our immune systems are more vulnerable whilst we sleep.

Gadget Disposal

With the advent of technology and society wanting to keep up-to-date with the latest gadgets, we are constantly 'disposing’ our old computers, mobile phones, TV sets, refrigerators etc.

So where does this waste go ? It ends up creating mountains of electronic waste or e-waste which includes electronics which are destined for reuse, resale, salvage, recycling or  disposal.

According to Wikipedia, the processing of electronic waste in developing countries causes serious health and pollution problems.  E-waste contains both valuable materials (such as lead, copper & gold which is suitable for reclamation) as well as hazardous materials which require special handling and recycling methods. 

We can help reducing e-waste by donating our old gadgets & equipment directly to organizations in need; sending devices directly back to original manufacturers or dropping them to a convenient recycler.

Lifestyle Disorders

This basically boils down to the fact that due to the comforts that technology has brought to us – an increasing number of people from the current generation are no longer going out and enjoying the natural beauty around them.

As a society – we are happy being indoors in the comforts of air conditioning, satellite TV, the Internet, video games – that there doesn’t appear to be a need to go out anymore for the basics.

Almost everything is available via the Internet.  When I was living in London and Montreal – after checking out the grocery stores initially to see what I liked best, I did all my shopping online.

Now that I’m in India – I’ve noticed that I spend almost all of my free time ‘indoors’.  Bombay as a city doesn’t offer me perks such as parks or beaches (the public beaches here is NOT where you want to be – that’s what Goa is for) to go and hang out. 

When was the last time you went for a bike ride ? Or a walk in the park ? I know I haven’t in a while – but it boils down to the fact that I’m living in a city where parks close by 8 p.m and I don’t get home from work before that. 

Other lifestyle disorders include suffering from back pain and developing blood clots from sitting at a desk too long.  Obesity is a growing concern in some countries as people are no longer ‘active’.  One can also suffer from increased blood pressure and stress levels from being in an environment that is sending out EMR’s.

Conclusion : In our attempt to create a more convenient world, we are unwittingly paying the highest price – our health.  I have put down a few pointers on how to prevent these problems – however we must be ‘aware’ of the problems in the first place.  The old saying goes ‘prevention is better than cure’ – please spread the word !

I would love to know your thoughts on this subject as it really had an effect on me after reading the magazine article.  What do you think we can do to avoid the ‘technology flu’ ?  Are there any other symptoms we should look out for ?  What else is out there that can affect us ?

Additional & Reference Links

1. Electro pollution : Be Aware, Be Healthy
2. Electro pollution – A Feng Shui Network article
3. Say Goodbye to Radiation Waves
4. E-Waste : Start Thinking About the Future
5. Recycle Your E-Waste
6. How Can I Prevent Computer Vision Syndrome ?
7. Tips for Preventing Computer Vision Syndrome
8. Are your Gadgets making you Sick ?
9. Top 5 Health Problems Relating to Computers