Ever wonder how some times you are just surrounded by negative feelings about others, about your life, about a lot of things in general... and then something happens and that changes everything; it makes you realize that what you were thinking or were planning to do or not do was not so right?
I am glad to have watched this video today. I wasn't going to because I read here that it would make me cry (I do run away from things that make me cry, be it having an emotional conversation with someone or watching a sad movie or just reading something touchy) so I was putting it off, but I am so glad I watched this video today.
And I have to admit, one of the things that encouraged me to watch this video was Neha's "Its only words..." post. I've learned that what you say matters too and what you don't say does as well.
I have got a ton of thinking to do now... as usual, because believe it or not, who I am makes a difference!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Tagged, yet again!!!
Thanks to Chinmai, these days I'm having too much fun getting tagged... really it is! If you want to know, try it out yourself.
Many others are not interested in getting tagged, I know. :|
I'm still going to tag all those people I've tagged last time along with Jaydip, Prajakta & Swati.
All of these people better start answering the questions or else...!!!!!
- Last movie you saw in a theatre?
Yup, still Taare Zameen Par. Can't believe it's been four months since! - What book are you reading?
Calvin & Hobbes collector's edition book 1. - Favorite board game?
Cranium! I wish they make an Indian version of this game some day. That would be just fantastic. ;) - Favorite magazine?
As a kid, it used to be fulwaaDi (Gujarati), I remember waiting for it outside the house every Wednesday morning. Now I haven't remained such an avid reader... but there's so many that I find interesting. Any magazine with new techno stuff is always a fun read, and of course anything related to Travel/Nature/Geography and not to forget celebrity gossip magazines. LOL! - Favorite smells?
I prefer the fragrance free environment but I think the smell of earthen land showered with cool Indian rains is beautiful... and jasmine, mogara and roses smell quite nice. - Favorite thing to do in weekend?
Go for a long drive, go hiking, or sight seeing in 75 degree F weather. - Worst feeling in the world?
Losing a loved one. - What is the first thing you think of when u wakeup?
I am going to steal Chinmai's answer here - yup, it depends on the dream too ;) - Favorite fast food place?
Burger King - I'd take a veggie whopper with cheese and a Hershey sundae pie please. *yummm* :D - Future child’s name?
It doesn't make sense to decide that all by myself now, does it? :P - Finish this statement --- 'If I had a lot of money'
I'd love to spend it. ;) For people I love and for things I love to do. :) - Do you drive fast?
Two wheelers - yes, used to quite a lot.
Four wheelers - tried it a couple of times, not any more since I realized it's not worth it. - Do you sleep with a stuffed animal?
LOL! that's so funny... ummm no thank you. - Storms -- Cool or Scary?
Scary, mostly. May be romantic, I dunno. ;) - What was your first car?
First one I drove was a Toyota Corolla and first one owned Toyota Camry. - Favorite drink?
Water. Cranberry juice and fresh coconut juice are delicious too! - Finish this statement --- If i had the time i would...
Tag a lot many more people ;) hahaha no just kidding.. that I do otherwise too...
Spend it doing all those things that just sit on my to-do list, which is quite long in fact. - Do you eat the stems on broccoli?
Of course! gladly. - If you could dye your hair any other color, what would be your choice?
Make that blue. - Name all the different cities/towns you have lived in?
In an alphabetical order, Ahmedabad, Bhavnagar, Burlingame, San Diego, and Vallabh Vidyanagar. - Favorite sports to watch?
Cricket - any day. Other than that Hockey (since Chak De India), Football/Soccer, and Olympic sports are also fun watch. - One information about the person who sent this to you?
How do you count one information? ;) haha kidding.. what kind of information? Chinmai reminds me of Mumbai. :) - What’s under your bed?
The book I read last night, which would be Calvin & Hobbes Book 1. - Would you like to be born as yourself again?
Absolutely! - Morning person or night owl?
A complete night owl. - Over easy or sunny side up?
Come again? - Favorite place to relax?
More of a state of mind, so place doesn't matter really. - Favorite pie?
A chilled Hershey sundae pie and a warm apple pie. *big grin* - Favorite ice cream flavor?
Butter scotch - the kind they used to make like in the 80s and 90s, it's not the same any more these days. Other than that I love strawberry, coconut, pineapple, anjeer, mango, (okay you don't want me to make a list of ALL the ice-creams in the world, now do you?) and the list doesn't end really. - Of all the people you have tagged, who is the most likely to respond first?
Bhavesh, but he's already tagged by Chinmai. :)
Many others are not interested in getting tagged, I know. :|
I'm still going to tag all those people I've tagged last time along with Jaydip, Prajakta & Swati.
All of these people better start answering the questions or else...!!!!!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Vaso Azzurro Ristorante
Classy Italian-French dining - that's what I call it. I love this place. If you're going out on a dinner date or for lunch with your colleague, you will love it here.
The food is great and the service is awesome! The staff is very polite and always smiling to help.
It gets a little crazy when they are crowded so the best time to go is in the early hours to avoid waiting for your meals.
My favorite dishes are:
* - my personal favorites
PANINI
Vegetali Panino - On a bun with aioli, grilled marinated eggplant, zucchini, roasted bell peppers, portabella basil, and sun-dried tomatoes, served with mixed baby greens side salad.
ANTIPASTI
Bocconcini Di Mozeralla Lombardy - Fresh mozzarellas, tomato slices, basil, oregano, olive oil & balsamic vinegar.
Aubergines Au Grill Modena - Hot stew of marinated eggplant with olive oil, diced red onions, tomatoes, garlic, roasted sweet red peppers.
Bruschetta Milano * - Freshly baked bread topped with fresh chopped tomato, red onion, garlic, basil & olive oil.
INSALATE
Insalata Della Casa * - Spring baby greens, kalamata olives, red onion, grated parmesan cheese & house dressing.
Insalata Trevisiana * - Fresh spinach, arugula, radicchio, caramelized walnuts & cherry tomatoes, house dressing. (Arugula is a herb)
Insalata Avocadro * - Fresh avocado, romaine lettuce, gorgonzola cheese, walnuts, tomatoes, lemon-herb dressing.
Insalata Arugula * - Fresh baby arugula, hearts of palm, goat cheese, cherry tomatoes, lemon-herb dressing.
ENTREES
Capellini Al Pomodoro Fresco - Angel hair pasta, fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, EVOO, and spinach.
Penne Alla Diavola * - Pasta tubes with chunk of marinated eggplants, garlic, onion, basil, red bell pepper, spicy marinara sauce. If you like a spicy Italian dish, this is the one to order. It's very delicious!
Gnocchi Di Spinaci Al Gorgonzola - Spinach and potato dumplings in rich creamy gorgonzola cheese sauce, splash of chardonnay. Great if you are a cheese lover.
Ravioli Con Spinaci Di Mascarpone * - Pasta, stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese, sauted in a marinara mascarpone cheese sauce.
Risotto Fungi - Imported Arborio rice with Portobello mushroom, peppercorns, sundried tomatoes, and touch of cream.
You can practically order anything else that you see on menu and request them to not include the meat and they are kind enough to make it for you.
They have a fantastic collection of desserts as well, ranging from Italian ones to the Middle Eastern ones, including Flan, Mud Pie, Tiramisu *, Creme Brule, Cheesecake, Chocolate Fudge Cake, Baklava *, Affogata, Zabaglione, Sorbet, Gelato *, Chocolate Sundae, and Helen of Troy.
And btw, if you still didn't know, Vaso Azzurro means blue vase; they do have a whole bunch of them in the restaurant as well.
My rating for Vaso Azzurro: 4/5
Name: Vaso Azzurro Ristorante
Type: Italian-French
Average Price: $10-14/person (Lunch), $12-18/person (Dinner)
Address: 108 Castro St, Mountain View, CA 94041 (At Evelyn Ave)
Phone: (650) 940-1717
Website: http://vasoazzurro.com/
The food is great and the service is awesome! The staff is very polite and always smiling to help.
It gets a little crazy when they are crowded so the best time to go is in the early hours to avoid waiting for your meals.
My favorite dishes are:
* - my personal favorites
PANINI
Vegetali Panino - On a bun with aioli, grilled marinated eggplant, zucchini, roasted bell peppers, portabella basil, and sun-dried tomatoes, served with mixed baby greens side salad.
ANTIPASTI
Bocconcini Di Mozeralla Lombardy - Fresh mozzarellas, tomato slices, basil, oregano, olive oil & balsamic vinegar.
Aubergines Au Grill Modena - Hot stew of marinated eggplant with olive oil, diced red onions, tomatoes, garlic, roasted sweet red peppers.
Bruschetta Milano * - Freshly baked bread topped with fresh chopped tomato, red onion, garlic, basil & olive oil.
INSALATE
Insalata Della Casa * - Spring baby greens, kalamata olives, red onion, grated parmesan cheese & house dressing.
Insalata Trevisiana * - Fresh spinach, arugula, radicchio, caramelized walnuts & cherry tomatoes, house dressing. (Arugula is a herb)
Insalata Avocadro * - Fresh avocado, romaine lettuce, gorgonzola cheese, walnuts, tomatoes, lemon-herb dressing.
Insalata Arugula * - Fresh baby arugula, hearts of palm, goat cheese, cherry tomatoes, lemon-herb dressing.
ENTREES
Capellini Al Pomodoro Fresco - Angel hair pasta, fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, EVOO, and spinach.
Penne Alla Diavola * - Pasta tubes with chunk of marinated eggplants, garlic, onion, basil, red bell pepper, spicy marinara sauce. If you like a spicy Italian dish, this is the one to order. It's very delicious!
Gnocchi Di Spinaci Al Gorgonzola - Spinach and potato dumplings in rich creamy gorgonzola cheese sauce, splash of chardonnay. Great if you are a cheese lover.
Ravioli Con Spinaci Di Mascarpone * - Pasta, stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese, sauted in a marinara mascarpone cheese sauce.
Risotto Fungi - Imported Arborio rice with Portobello mushroom, peppercorns, sundried tomatoes, and touch of cream.
You can practically order anything else that you see on menu and request them to not include the meat and they are kind enough to make it for you.
They have a fantastic collection of desserts as well, ranging from Italian ones to the Middle Eastern ones, including Flan, Mud Pie, Tiramisu *, Creme Brule, Cheesecake, Chocolate Fudge Cake, Baklava *, Affogata, Zabaglione, Sorbet, Gelato *, Chocolate Sundae, and Helen of Troy.
And btw, if you still didn't know, Vaso Azzurro means blue vase; they do have a whole bunch of them in the restaurant as well.
My rating for Vaso Azzurro: 4/5
Name: Vaso Azzurro Ristorante
Type: Italian-French
Average Price: $10-14/person (Lunch), $12-18/person (Dinner)
Address: 108 Castro St, Mountain View, CA 94041 (At Evelyn Ave)
Phone: (650) 940-1717
Website: http://vasoazzurro.com/
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Firehouse Grill & Brewery
Pretty good for a brewery to have at least one vegetarian item in each category. I like this place and have been there numerous times. You don't get too much of a choice as a vegetarian but the food is quite good and so is the service.
Starters: Bruschetta - Tomato, Basil, Garlic, Sourdough Crostini
Mozzarella Sticks. They also have Fire House Garlic Fries for dinner.
Soups & Salads: Fire 'House' Salad - Seasonal Greens, Carrot, Cucumber, Red Onion.
Pizzas: Margherita - Tomato, Basil, Mozzarella.
Pastas: Roasted Vegetable Ravioli - Tomato Basil Sauce, Parmesan Cheese.
Sandwiches: Fire Roasted Portabello - Fontina Cheese, Spinach, Eggplant, Roasted Peppers, Pesto, Served Open Faced.
Surprisingly enough, I still haven't gotten a chance to try out any desserts at Firehouse. They have Blackberry Parfait (includes alcohol I believe), Chocolate Mousse, Crème Brûlée Cheese Cake, Mud Pie, Apple Pie, and assorted Gelatos & Sorbets.
My rating for Firehouse Grill: 3/5.
Name: Firehouse Grill & Brewery
Type: Brewery
Average Price: $10-14/person (Lunch), $12-18/person (Dinner)
Address: 111 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (At Evelyn Ave)
Phone: (408) 773-9500
Website: http://www.firehousegrill.com/
Starters: Bruschetta - Tomato, Basil, Garlic, Sourdough Crostini
Mozzarella Sticks. They also have Fire House Garlic Fries for dinner.
Soups & Salads: Fire 'House' Salad - Seasonal Greens, Carrot, Cucumber, Red Onion.
Pizzas: Margherita - Tomato, Basil, Mozzarella.
Pastas: Roasted Vegetable Ravioli - Tomato Basil Sauce, Parmesan Cheese.
Sandwiches: Fire Roasted Portabello - Fontina Cheese, Spinach, Eggplant, Roasted Peppers, Pesto, Served Open Faced.
Surprisingly enough, I still haven't gotten a chance to try out any desserts at Firehouse. They have Blackberry Parfait (includes alcohol I believe), Chocolate Mousse, Crème Brûlée Cheese Cake, Mud Pie, Apple Pie, and assorted Gelatos & Sorbets.
My rating for Firehouse Grill: 3/5.
Name: Firehouse Grill & Brewery
Type: Brewery
Average Price: $10-14/person (Lunch), $12-18/person (Dinner)
Address: 111 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (At Evelyn Ave)
Phone: (408) 773-9500
Website: http://www.firehousegrill.com/
Friday, April 18, 2008
Tired of those "Please Click Here" comments?
I am too!
Since Kumar brought it up, I'm going to put up some tips for fellow readers.
Please don't click on any links in comments/posts unless you know the poster. That's the first safety rule.
Moreover, do not click on their blog pages. When you hover the mouse over their blog pages, it might read something genuine like my-cool-blog.blogspot.com but in reality it redirects to their spam sites, so don't be tempted to click on it.
Other than that, here's what you can do to stop them:
(1) Go to Settings -> Comments -> Show word verification for comments? Set it to Yes. This way if it is a machine doing it, it will stop right there.
(2) If the comments don't stop after you put in the word verification, then on that same page, Enable comment moderation? Set it to Yes.
Three spammers I have spotted are: Guhn, Grogal, and JoJosho. Their profiles are going to be reported to whom it may concern. Cheers!
Since Kumar brought it up, I'm going to put up some tips for fellow readers.
Please don't click on any links in comments/posts unless you know the poster. That's the first safety rule.
Moreover, do not click on their blog pages. When you hover the mouse over their blog pages, it might read something genuine like my-cool-blog.blogspot.com but in reality it redirects to their spam sites, so don't be tempted to click on it.
Other than that, here's what you can do to stop them:
(1) Go to Settings -> Comments -> Show word verification for comments? Set it to Yes. This way if it is a machine doing it, it will stop right there.
(2) If the comments don't stop after you put in the word verification, then on that same page, Enable comment moderation? Set it to Yes.
Three spammers I have spotted are: Guhn, Grogal, and JoJosho. Their profiles are going to be reported to whom it may concern. Cheers!
10 things that make my day!
This is what I love about blogging: you read other blogs and get inspired by them and hopefully they strike that chord in your mind to make you think, and may be to make write your own.
Inspiration post: 10 things that make my day! by Neha
I believe that happiness has nothing to do with people we interact with so mine are all boring ones; they don't include people. In any case, here I go -
The day starts with morning, so will I.
I hope you are getting some inspiration.
Inspiration post: 10 things that make my day! by Neha
I believe that happiness has nothing to do with people we interact with so mine are all boring ones; they don't include people. In any case, here I go -
The day starts with morning, so will I.
- Waking up full of energy and motivation to take whatever may come your way.
- A great satisfactory dump. Now nothing compares to that.
- Sleeping for another couple of hours after that.
- A nice long shower.
- Driving to work with no traffic jams.
- A great calorie-burning-sweat-dripping workout before lunch.
- Finishing up more chores/tasks in a day than you expected.
- Driving back home listening your favorite old Hindi songs, with car windows rolled down in warm breezy weather.
- Reading your favorite book while you lie in bed before falling asleep.
- An 8-10-hour restful sleep at night.
I hope you are getting some inspiration.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Life today
So this morning while leaving for work, she said irritatingly: "What am I coming home for? Just to eat my dinner and sleep and then to wake up and go to work again? I hate this routine. Do you call this life?"
He said: "And I didn't even get to sleep enough!"
And they laughed for half an hour...
He said: "And I didn't even get to sleep enough!"
And they laughed for half an hour...
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Would you give up on your family?
Given
- they don't care to call, or return phone calls.
- they don't care to respond to your emails or write to you.
- they don't come visit you.
- they don't initiate any contact with you what so ever.
- they don't keep in touch.
- they do go out of their way for others to make things nicer for them, but not you.
- you are on their messenger, but just an ID.
- you are in their phone-book, but just an entry.
- you are in their address-book, but just an email.
- (list continues)
Would you?
Why? Or why not?
- they don't care to call, or return phone calls.
- they don't care to respond to your emails or write to you.
- they don't come visit you.
- they don't initiate any contact with you what so ever.
- they don't keep in touch.
- they do go out of their way for others to make things nicer for them, but not you.
- you are on their messenger, but just an ID.
- you are in their phone-book, but just an entry.
- you are in their address-book, but just an email.
- (list continues)
Would you?
Why? Or why not?
untitled
He has gone now and that is the reality
But still it seems like he has not
My mind refuses to accept the fact
Why does it affect me so? I sit and think
As the tears roll down my cheeks
My throat chokes, full of emotions
If this is how it is for me, then
What must it be like for them?
I can't imagine...
He says life is transient and
This is how it goes
You can refuse to accept the facts
But can not run away from reality
If you feel like letting it out
Do so and then move on
The only thing constant is change
So I try to move on
With the day
With this life
Without him being there
For all of us.
He once wrote in his diary: zindagi ek safar hai suhaana yahaan kal kya ho kisne jaana...
April 16, 2008
But still it seems like he has not
My mind refuses to accept the fact
Why does it affect me so? I sit and think
As the tears roll down my cheeks
My throat chokes, full of emotions
If this is how it is for me, then
What must it be like for them?
I can't imagine...
He says life is transient and
This is how it goes
You can refuse to accept the facts
But can not run away from reality
If you feel like letting it out
Do so and then move on
The only thing constant is change
So I try to move on
With the day
With this life
Without him being there
For all of us.
He once wrote in his diary: zindagi ek safar hai suhaana yahaan kal kya ho kisne jaana...
April 16, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Hakuna Matata
That's what the status reads for this person on my messenger list. It means "there are no worries here". Such a wonderful thought! Just those two words seem to take away the worries, at least for me they do. It so happens that when we are actually worrying about things, we don't realize that we are doing it until we are told or reminded of it. So this is a reminder to let go of worries and make a fresh start to whatever that our heart and mind desires to accomplish!
Monday, April 14, 2008
The Bay Bridge
The San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge is a double-decker bridge - you drive at the lower level to go towards the East into Oakland and on top if you're coming West towards San Francisco. This is also Interstate-80 (aka I-80), which goes cross-country, all the way up to New Jersey!
The bridge has two spans that are connected at the Treasure island.
This is the same bridge that got damanged during the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989.
The Bay Bridge on a bright clear day.
The bridge and Treasure island (on left) on a cloudy day.
Art work on the Embarcadero and the bridge and Treasure island in the background.
Driving on the upper level of the bridge. San Francisco skyline is seen on the right hand side.
The Western span (between San Francisco and Treasure island) of the bridge has higher towers than the Eastern span.
San Francisco skyline at sunset from the bridge.
The bridge at night.
The bridge has two spans that are connected at the Treasure island.
This is the same bridge that got damanged during the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989.
The Bay Bridge on a bright clear day.
The bridge and Treasure island (on left) on a cloudy day.
Art work on the Embarcadero and the bridge and Treasure island in the background.
Driving on the upper level of the bridge. San Francisco skyline is seen on the right hand side.
The Western span (between San Francisco and Treasure island) of the bridge has higher towers than the Eastern span.
San Francisco skyline at sunset from the bridge.
The bridge at night.
Cupid's Span
The Cupid's Span is located in Rincon Park in San Francisco on the Embarcadero.
While strolling Northwards towards the Port of San Francisco and the Ferry building on the Embarcadero, we can see the tall SF skyscrappers on the left and bay bridge to the right.
The sidewalk at the Embarcadero.
The Bay Bridge
The Ferry Building on the far right and the skyscrapers.
The sign
Cupid's Span
Yet another view of Cupid's Span with the Ferry Building in background.
The top of the arrow
The sculpture symbolizes the place where Tony Bennett "left his heart".
More photos of Cupid's Span
While strolling Northwards towards the Port of San Francisco and the Ferry building on the Embarcadero, we can see the tall SF skyscrappers on the left and bay bridge to the right.
The sidewalk at the Embarcadero.
The Bay Bridge
The Ferry Building on the far right and the skyscrapers.
The sign
Cupid's Span
Yet another view of Cupid's Span with the Ferry Building in background.
The top of the arrowThe sculpture symbolizes the place where Tony Bennett "left his heart".
More photos of Cupid's Span
Friday, April 11, 2008
Funny Language Translations
Hasmukh just sent these in a forward and I can't stop laughing... can you?
And then after reading this I remembered this real life incident (heard it from dad) that happened somewhere in Saurashtra (Gujarat) years ago.
A Sanskrit teacher asked to his students "Sita kasya suta?" [Whose daughter was Sita?]
A student: "Saheb, Sita chatta soota" [Sita sleeps on her back]
[Correct answer should have been "Sita Janakasya suta" means Sita was Janak's daughter]
Some dialogs said by teachers and professors who are not so good 'at' ENGLISH.
"pick up the paper and fall in the dustbin!!!"
once our hindi teacher said...."i'm going out of the world to america..".. ..lol...
dont..laugh at the back benches...otherwise teeth and all will be fallen down.....
it was very hot in the afternoon when the teacher entered.. tried to switch the fan on but there was sum problem. and then she said " why is fan not oning" (ing form of on)
teacher in a furious mood... write down ur name and father of ur name!!
"shhh... quiet... the principal is revolving around college"
Teacher intro: "Hi, I am Madhu, Married with two kids"
"I'll illustrate what i have in my mind" said the professor and erased the board
"will u hang that calender or else i'll HANG MYSELF"
tomorrow call ur parents especially mother and father
"why are you looking at the monkeys outside when i am in the class?!"
A computer lab assistant on wrong code.. "i understand. u understand. computer how understand??
Be a master of mind rather than mastered by mind !!
And then after reading this I remembered this real life incident (heard it from dad) that happened somewhere in Saurashtra (Gujarat) years ago.
A Sanskrit teacher asked to his students "Sita kasya suta?" [Whose daughter was Sita?]
A student: "Saheb, Sita chatta soota" [Sita sleeps on her back]
[Correct answer should have been "Sita Janakasya suta" means Sita was Janak's daughter]
Camlin Permanent Markers
This is THE most ridiculous ad I have ever seen. Yup, it truly is!
Caught it when they used to show it almost every 10 minutes during those cricket matches in February. Actually, when I think about it again, it is actually ridiculously funny! jeez! unbelievable.. those guys who made the ad... sheesh!
Camlin Permanent Markers
Caught it when they used to show it almost every 10 minutes during those cricket matches in February. Actually, when I think about it again, it is actually ridiculously funny! jeez! unbelievable.. those guys who made the ad... sheesh!
Camlin Permanent Markers
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Tagged!
Chinmai had tagged me more than a month back, but since I was away I didn't get a chance to get to it until now... so here goes:
Instructions: Remove 1 question from below, and add in your personal question. Make it a total of 20 questions, and then tag 8 people in your list. List them out at the end of this post. Notify them in their chat box that he/she has been tagged.
(Btw, where in the world is that chat box? If you can find it, please let me know.)
1) Who are the most & most important persons you like to meet in your life?
I’d love to meet Lata Mangeshkar and Amitabh Bachchan. Politicians don't impress me much.
2) Name Three Most Valuable Assets?
As per this shloka I learned as a teenager, it would be the character, education, and our duties:
videsheshu dhanam vidya vyasaneshu dhanam matihi
parloke dhanam dharmana sheelam sarvatra vaidhanam
More on it here.
3) If you have the chance, what would you probably say to your beloved one?
I don't think it's worth waiting for anything or anyone to say something to the beloved ones, just do it now. :)
4) What has been the happiest moment?
There's been many of those.
5) Where is the place that you want to go the most?
Right now, Morro Bay in Central California.
6) If you can have 1 dream to come true, what would it be?
For all the people to be more forgiving and less egotist, including and starting with myself.
7) Till now, what is the moment that you regret the most?
Delaying that India trip by two weeks, but then again, all that happens happens for a reason, so it's all good.
8) Two things which you always wanted to learn but never did till date?
(I) American Sign Language (II) Roller-skating
9) What would you do if you found a briefcase full of money?
Turn it in at lost and found. (yeah rite! :P) I seriously would. ;) I prefer sona (sleeping peacefully) over the other sona (gold) any day.
10) If you meet someone that you love, would you confess to him/her?
Depends. ;)
11) List out 3 good points of the person who tagged you.
That's Chinmai - I haven't met her yet but would love to. :) I know that she's one level headed woman, a great photographer, and a fabulous writer.
12) What are the requirements that you wish from your other half?
Nothing more or less than what I am, a perfect imperfection. haha!
13) Which type of person do you like the most?
Can I rather answer the kind I don't like instead? I'll pass this one. :D
14) What is your ambition?
To make this life as a human being worthy of it. They say you don't get too many births as a human being.
15) What is the thing that will make you think someone is a bad person?
Those self-centered people who always believe in *take* and never *give*.
16) If you could do one thing different in life, what would it be?
Bhavesh is going to throw things at me for stealing his answer but I'd have to say the same - exercise/workout daily is what I'd like to do.
17) Something that made u laugh today?
This blog post and all of the comments underneath it. OMG! it is outrageous.. I have been laughing hysterically every time I visit that page.
18) How do you deal with a friend who has wronged you?
Bhavesh? I hope he isn't reading this. I'd go with Gandhigiri as well.
19) Name one favorite song of yours.
I too have a lot, like Chinmai does, but "aanewala pal jaanewala hai" still remains an all-time-favorite!
20)If you are about to lose all your memory and you have an option to remember just one person, who will it be? (OK that's the one I crossed out)
20) Imagine you could be in any profession you wish. What profession is that? (This must be a profession! Stay-at-home-dad or House-wife are not acceptable answers. :P)
For me, it would have to be a musician. LOL! hahahahaha!
Now the most fun part, you all get to answer these same questions and entertain yourself!! ;)
I wish all of these kind & sweet people would oblige: (in alphabetical order) Ami, Hasmukh, Jigar, Jwalant, Kumar, Maulik, Neha, Rakeshbhai and anyone else who also thinks they are kind & sweet and want to tag themselves, please be my guest. :D
Hey, don't forget to share the link to your answers on here!! Thx.
Instructions: Remove 1 question from below, and add in your personal question. Make it a total of 20 questions, and then tag 8 people in your list. List them out at the end of this post. Notify them in their chat box that he/she has been tagged.
(Btw, where in the world is that chat box? If you can find it, please let me know.)
1) Who are the most & most important persons you like to meet in your life?
I’d love to meet Lata Mangeshkar and Amitabh Bachchan. Politicians don't impress me much.
2) Name Three Most Valuable Assets?
As per this shloka I learned as a teenager, it would be the character, education, and our duties:
videsheshu dhanam vidya vyasaneshu dhanam matihi
parloke dhanam dharmana sheelam sarvatra vaidhanam
More on it here.
3) If you have the chance, what would you probably say to your beloved one?
I don't think it's worth waiting for anything or anyone to say something to the beloved ones, just do it now. :)
4) What has been the happiest moment?
There's been many of those.
5) Where is the place that you want to go the most?
Right now, Morro Bay in Central California.
6) If you can have 1 dream to come true, what would it be?
For all the people to be more forgiving and less egotist, including and starting with myself.
7) Till now, what is the moment that you regret the most?
Delaying that India trip by two weeks, but then again, all that happens happens for a reason, so it's all good.
8) Two things which you always wanted to learn but never did till date?
(I) American Sign Language (II) Roller-skating
9) What would you do if you found a briefcase full of money?
Turn it in at lost and found. (yeah rite! :P) I seriously would. ;) I prefer sona (sleeping peacefully) over the other sona (gold) any day.
10) If you meet someone that you love, would you confess to him/her?
Depends. ;)
11) List out 3 good points of the person who tagged you.
That's Chinmai - I haven't met her yet but would love to. :) I know that she's one level headed woman, a great photographer, and a fabulous writer.
12) What are the requirements that you wish from your other half?
Nothing more or less than what I am, a perfect imperfection. haha!
13) Which type of person do you like the most?
Can I rather answer the kind I don't like instead? I'll pass this one. :D
14) What is your ambition?
To make this life as a human being worthy of it. They say you don't get too many births as a human being.
15) What is the thing that will make you think someone is a bad person?
Those self-centered people who always believe in *take* and never *give*.
16) If you could do one thing different in life, what would it be?
Bhavesh is going to throw things at me for stealing his answer but I'd have to say the same - exercise/workout daily is what I'd like to do.
17) Something that made u laugh today?
This blog post and all of the comments underneath it. OMG! it is outrageous.. I have been laughing hysterically every time I visit that page.
18) How do you deal with a friend who has wronged you?
Bhavesh? I hope he isn't reading this. I'd go with Gandhigiri as well.
19) Name one favorite song of yours.
I too have a lot, like Chinmai does, but "aanewala pal jaanewala hai" still remains an all-time-favorite!
20)
20) Imagine you could be in any profession you wish. What profession is that? (This must be a profession! Stay-at-home-dad or House-wife are not acceptable answers. :P)
For me, it would have to be a musician. LOL! hahahahaha!
Now the most fun part, you all get to answer these same questions and entertain yourself!! ;)
I wish all of these kind & sweet people would oblige: (in alphabetical order) Ami, Hasmukh, Jigar, Jwalant, Kumar, Maulik, Neha, Rakeshbhai and anyone else who also thinks they are kind & sweet and want to tag themselves, please be my guest. :D
Hey, don't forget to share the link to your answers on here!! Thx.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Backpains? Achy shoulders? Are you sitting/standing in balance?
A few years back I got a chance to discover and try out some fabulous technics to sit and stand in balance. Just made me realize how badly I used to sit until then (I still do sometimes, but then as soon as I realize it, I change my position to balanced). It has helped me great deal and so wanted to spread the word around. Hope the fellow readers will find this bit of info helpful.If you live in the bay area or are visiting, don't forget to check out one of these free classes at The Balance Center.
Image Copyright © Balance Center
Friday, April 04, 2008
Movie Quirks Meme
So there's this interesting chain of thoughts going around the block and I came across it at Nova's so said to myself, why not try it out? It sounds an awful lot of fun!!!
It's about movies, movies and more movies... here comes my extra-long version: (Jeez I can't believe I have 18 of them listed!! phew)
I love watching Hindi movies (specially the old ones and b&w) and most of the time I end up watching the movie over and over again on DVD once I know I like it a lot.
I love discussions about the movie while watching it, specially with someone who also loves to do the same. I'd pause the movie and discuss it for like 15-20 minutes about what we just saw or noticed. There are so many details we usually miss out on, it's mind-blowing when you realize and start paying attention to those little things. I truly enjoy doing that.
I love watching movies in theater as well but I would rather read a few reviews about it before I finally buy the tickets.
I have never walked out of a movie in my life, may be because I haven't really watched any extra lousy movie in a theater.
I, too, don't like having crying kids in a movie theater, but hey, those parents need a break too, right? :P
I have never been to a movie (in a theater) alone and I wouldn't want to.
I hate watching a movie sitting in the first few rows, so close to the screen. (I had to watch Mr. & Mrs. Smith from second row and absolutely hated the position.)
I have never watched same movie twice in a theater (may be because they don't do reruns of those golden oldies in theaters).
I watch the movie until the very end, even after the credits are displayed and all the audience has gone out. I love to find out about who worked on what and the locations and other movie making info.
I love comedy movies and laugh out loud while watching them, regardless of where I'm watching them - theater or DVD.
I am not a fan of too-much-rona-dhona kind of movies and don't like to watch movies that make adults cry. (I guess films like Taare Zameen Par, Veer Zaara would be exceptions)
I wish all of my favorite movies were made in IMAX! ;)
I am not a carbonated soda fan and don't like eating junk food while I watch a movie, but I have to admit once I pigged out on popcorn and jalapeño peppers with my cousins. Boy! do they taste out of this world or what! *drool*
I don't like it when those extra tall people sit up straight in front seats and block my view.
I can't fall asleep in the movie theater.
I don't like it when people litter in a movie theater or leave their mess behind.
I can't stand the close captioning in movies when in movie theater (they've been doing this in the US at least, not sure about India or other places). The non-Hindi speaking junta can rent a DVD at home.
I have requested a theater to have one additional show of a movie because I was too late in finding out how fantastic that movie was! It's too bad they didn't run one extra show for me since the movie was out on DVD already.
And if you're reading this, you're tagged!!! so get those thinking caps on and do share your likes & dislikes about watching movies. Let the fun begin...
It's about movies, movies and more movies... here comes my extra-long version: (Jeez I can't believe I have 18 of them listed!! phew)
And if you're reading this, you're tagged!!! so get those thinking caps on and do share your likes & dislikes about watching movies. Let the fun begin...
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Wife taller than you? Go for 'a 2-inch head implant'
Those guys at Yahoo! must have read my blog post. LOL!
It's getting scarier; In todays world, if you can think it, people can almost certainly make it happen!
Source: Wife taller than you? Go for 'a 2-inch head implant'
As an aside, these bits of news, again related to height, were quite interesting too:
Smoking doesn't make girls skinny but does make boys short
Short people are 'most prone to jealousy'
They got me thinking... once the boys know about it, it will hopefully make them do the same before they light up again, eh!
It's getting scarier; In todays world, if you can think it, people can almost certainly make it happen!
Sun, Mar 30 05:10 PM
Is your wife or girlfriend taller than you? Forget shoe lift. Instead you can try out a two-inch head implant.
A cosmetic surgeon in Spain has developed a new way of adding up to two inches to a person's height by inserting a silicone head implant, leading British newspaper the Daily Mail reported.
According to Dr Luis de la Cruz of the Clinica La Luz hospital in Madrid, the operation takes 90 minutes during which an incision is made in one side of the head and then the implant is squeezed in between the skull and the scalp.
The cost of the operation is 4,000 pounds and it is usually performed by applying a local anaesthetic. Patients are released from the hospital the subsequent day.
Dr de la Cruz, who has already carried out the operation on 17 patients, said: "It is a relatively simple procedure that can have a wonderfully positive effect on the patient's life. Like most good ideas it came to me in a flash.
"I was approached by a young woman who always dreamt of becoming an air stewardess. She was rejected for being half an inch too small and asked if there was any technique to add to her height.
"At the time the only way was through lengthening the leg bones, which is an extreme and traumatic option. It got me thinking.
"I carry out many chin implant operations and suddenly I thought, 'Why not an implant between the skull and the scalp?'. She is very happy with the result and is now an air stewardess."
Source: Wife taller than you? Go for 'a 2-inch head implant'
As an aside, these bits of news, again related to height, were quite interesting too:
They got me thinking... once the boys know about it, it will hopefully make them do the same before they light up again, eh!
SF Bay Area Bike to Work Day
Thursday, May 15, 2008, is the 14th annual Bike to Work Day!
On Thursday May 15, 2008, tens of thousands of residents from all corners of the Bay Area will put aside their car keys, don their helmets and bike to work. They will be seen on two wheels, big wheels, tandems and hybrids.
Ride your bike to work, to class, to errands or to play. Pedaling can take you there! Throughout the Bay Area, dozens of local events taking place during the month of May will get people excited about bicycling and the benefits it provides for public health, traffic reduction and our environment.
Join the thousands from all around the Bay Area on Thursday, May 15! Hop on your bike and bike to work! Stop by one of the over 190 Energizer Stations strategically located throughout the Bay Area where you will be greeted and cheered by volunteers handing out complimentary treats and tote bags and bicycle commute-related information.
In fact, the entire month of May is National Bike Month! Celebrate throughout the month by participating in fun-filled events such as the Team Bike Challenge, a friendly competition that challenges folks to ride for the entire month of May to earn points and win prizes! Nominate someone you know who epitomizes the spirit of Bike to Work Day 2008 for the Bike Commuter of the Year Award. Visit your local bike coalition or bicycle advocacy website for local events hosted in your community so you can join in on the fun and win prizes!
Why Bike to Work?
It’s Healthy! Did you know that on average, a person weighing 175lb, burns 1160 calories pedaling 20 miles at a speed of 15 mph? Check out our Bike Calculator to find out you can improve your health, burning calories biking!
It’s Economical! Did you know that if you drove an SUV and lived 5 miles from work, you would save $346.32 a year by biking to work one day a week? Check out our Bike Calculator to find out how much you can save by biking to work!
It’s Environmentally Friendly! Did you know that if you drove a Toyota Camry and lived 9 miles from work, you would reduce emissions pollutants by 908 lbs year by biking one day a week? Check out our Bike Calculator to find out how much you can save the environment by riding your bike to work!
See photos of exciting Bike to Work Day activities from 2007 here.
Fina Estampa
Got to eat lunch at this place back in September of last year. I didn't really have a choice to decide because I was there with a group and majority of the people wanted to eat Mexican so we decided to go to this place. The place does not look very impressive from the outside. It is located right at the corner of Van Ness and Geary in SF downtown. Once we were inside, the atmosphere was quite authentic. The place has a Spanish/Peruvian decorations and the looks quite nice, not too fancy but makes you feel at home.
The menu has two lists of items - one Peruvian and the other Spanish/Mexican. A lot of Spanish names sound very original and you can tell it's not American-Mexican but authentic Mexican food.
They have THE BEST salsa ever. The chips and salsa are served as soon as you are seated. They also serve warm fluffy white bread (looks and tastes mostly like the French bread) slices with butter. There are four different kinds of sauces/condiments served as well.
After trying to make up my mind between the two kinds of ethnic foods, I decided to go with Peruvian. They have separate section on the menu for veg. items. This dish I tried (I forget the name) has sauted vegetables with French fries and is served with steamed rice. It was very delicious and has become my favorite now. I can't wait to go there again and try out other veg dishes that they serve along with the dessert.
There is parking available on the street as well as across the street under the Cathedral Hill Hotel where public can park for reasonable hourly rates.
For the fans of Mexican/Peruvian food, this is a must-eat place.
My rating for Fina Estampa: 4/5
Name: Fina Estampa
Type: Peruvian & Spanish/Mexican
Average Price: $8-14/person (Lunch), $11-16/person (Dinner)
Address: 1100 Van Ness, San Francisco, CA 94109 (At Geary Street)
Phone: (415) 440-6343
Website: http://www.finaestampasf.com/
The menu has two lists of items - one Peruvian and the other Spanish/Mexican. A lot of Spanish names sound very original and you can tell it's not American-Mexican but authentic Mexican food.
They have THE BEST salsa ever. The chips and salsa are served as soon as you are seated. They also serve warm fluffy white bread (looks and tastes mostly like the French bread) slices with butter. There are four different kinds of sauces/condiments served as well.
After trying to make up my mind between the two kinds of ethnic foods, I decided to go with Peruvian. They have separate section on the menu for veg. items. This dish I tried (I forget the name) has sauted vegetables with French fries and is served with steamed rice. It was very delicious and has become my favorite now. I can't wait to go there again and try out other veg dishes that they serve along with the dessert.
There is parking available on the street as well as across the street under the Cathedral Hill Hotel where public can park for reasonable hourly rates.
For the fans of Mexican/Peruvian food, this is a must-eat place.
My rating for Fina Estampa: 4/5
Name: Fina Estampa
Type: Peruvian & Spanish/Mexican
Average Price: $8-14/person (Lunch), $11-16/person (Dinner)
Address: 1100 Van Ness, San Francisco, CA 94109 (At Geary Street)
Phone: (415) 440-6343
Website: http://www.finaestampasf.com/
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Bored
What do you do when you are super bored? How do you go about getting those brain cells recharged?
Blog about it
Get a crazy hair cut
Clean your room
Listen to songs
Go watch a movie
Arrange old photographs
What's on your list?
What's on your list?
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Blast from the Past!
Do you know the feeling you get when you run into someone you have never expected to run into in your scariest dreams or even fondest dreams? I mean it doesn't have to be someone you dated, went out with or had crush on, it could be just a kid living next door or a friend you are catching up with after years and find out that you're also friends with their relative(s) but just didn't know they were related! Until this moment!!!
Question is whether you tell them? Not tell them? Are they going to think you know their secrets, if you do let it slip? ;) :P It's the kind of feeling that is called dharma-sankat, well, may be not exactly but that's how you feel. It's like the volcano of feelings inside is waiting to just explode and you can't contain it any more!!! How do you get rid of that urge to tell? ;) Not that I'm feeling any but just was curious to know.
Question is whether you tell them? Not tell them? Are they going to think you know their secrets, if you do let it slip? ;) :P It's the kind of feeling that is called dharma-sankat, well, may be not exactly but that's how you feel. It's like the volcano of feelings inside is waiting to just explode and you can't contain it any more!!! How do you get rid of that urge to tell? ;) Not that I'm feeling any but just was curious to know.
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