Happiness is...

       In today's world, we all are so busy running after big things in order to achieve happiness that we forget the most basic truth - Happiness is not to be searched for; instead it should be felt. Happiness is not running after big things but often happiness can be found in little things; things we forget to notice due to our busy schedule!

       Last year when I started doing 100HappyDays Challenge on this blog, I realized how small things that happen in our day to day life can contribute in making us happy. From then on, I have made it a habit to write at least one thing that made me happy everyday. Every time I go through that list, it never fails to make me smile.

       Happiness is being surrounded by people who love you. Happiness is family and friends who cherish you and love you for who you are. Happiness is having people who can look past your imperfections and see the real you; people who can even understand your silence and people who can go out of their way just to make you smile.

       Happiness is looking at your book shelf and realizing there are still books waiting to be read. Happiness is falling in love with the characters of the books and living their life along with them. Happiness is reading to quench your thirst!

       Happiness is following your heart. Having a clear goal in life and working towards achieving it. Happiness is when people appreciate your work.

       Happiness is cooking. It is when something you experimented with turns out really tasty and everyone starts asking for more.

       Happiness is enjoying the final semester of college. Participating in different activities because you know it is the last time you will be having fun with your friends. Happiness is giving your best and seeing your efforts getting rewarded.

        Happiness is having that one friend whose level of craziness matches exactly with yours. Having such a friend is the best gift you can ever receive. The world becomes a laughing zone when with them because you cannot stop finding things that make you laugh!

       Happiness is clicking pictures. I have developed a new craze for clicking photos all thanks to Instagram! Happiness is clicking pictures to preserve a memory and revisiting it again and again, reminiscing the happy times. 

       Happiness is forgetting the world and being yourself, not caring what others might think about you! Happiness is letting go of people who hurt you and moving on with your life with renewed enthusiasm.

      Happiness is travelling; visiting places that you love. Happiness is listening to music. Happiness is getting window seat while travelling. The feel of air playing with your hair as you sit by the window listening to the music, I just have one word for it - Heavenly!

       The list goes on. There really is no end to this list of happiness; because happiness is all about the little things and little moments of our life.

PS: This post is written for http://cokeurl.com/96jnc.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

Lesson Learnt from a Kid

       It was vacation time and I was excited. I had planned a trip to my cousin's place and I was looking forward to it. It had been a long time since I visited her and it made the trip all more exciting. We had so much to catch up on and so many secrets to share. So many shopping trips to make and so many places to visit. Barely containing my excitement, I packed my bags and set out for her place.

       To say she was happy would be an understatement. She literally ran and hugged me when she saw me standing in the doorway and pulled me inside her home. We started chatting right away and made plans. The next evening, we decided to go to the beach near her place. I was looking forward to it a lot but due to the rain, we had to stay indoors. With nothing much to do, we decided to play chess to pass time.

       Let me tell you, she is a champion in the game. She has won many national level competitions and can give even the best players a complex. And there I was, just an average player. Though I could play well, in front of her skills, I knew I stood no match! But still, with nothing better to do, I agreed to her pleadings and thus started the game.

       One, three, five! I lost all the games in succession. Well, I had expected as much but still when I couldn't win even a single match, it hurt. Suddenly, I didn't feel like playing anymore. I was tired of losing the game. Still, mustering the little hope left inside me, I played once more and needless to say, I lost; again! Frustrated, I stood up and left saying I want some fresh air. I could hear her mocking laughter following me all the way.

       I stood in the veranda feeling stupid. It was stupid to react the way I did when I knew this would happen. But still, it was difficult to accept defeat. I stood staring at nothing in particular. The rain had subsided into a faint drizzle and I stood there lost in thoughts. A cackle made me aware of someone's presence. It was the kid from the neighborhood. He was barely two years old. She was playing in the garden. I stood there watching her, a smile on my face. There is something adoring with the kids. They can make you forget your bad mood and smile even when you are at your worst. 

       This kid was running behind a butterfly, trying to catch it. I could see she was mesmerized by it and was determined to catch it. But that never happened. She would run towards the flower on which the butterfly was sitting and as soon as she extended her hand, it would fly away. And when it did, she started chasing it again. The chase went on and on. I thought she would get tired of it but nothing of that sort happened. If anything, she looked happy. She didn't know the meaning of losing or giving up. All she knew was doing what made her happy.

       Suddenly, I felt optimistic. That kid had taught me a valuable lesson that day. With renewed hope, I went inside where my cousin was and said "How about we play one more game?"

PS: This story is written for housing.com in association with Indiblogger.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

Mom and Facebook!!

       Facebook is a fun place when you have right kind of friends. The socializing, sharing, getting to know what is happening in each other's life, chatting; everything seems good. Sometimes, it is the best option to pass time. Everything looks good and happening. But what happens when your parents join Facebook? Well, that is when the real trouble begins!

       It all started when mom started learning computer few months ago. In the beginning, she used to say "These computers are not for me. I can never learn it. Leave it, it's a waste of time" My brother and I used to have a difficult time convincing her to learn. To make learning fun, my brother taught her how to use Facebook, so that there will be something interesting and motivating. After all, the thought of getting to know what her friends and family is up to, ought to pique some interest.

       Now, fast forward a few months.

Me: Mom, I want to use system.

Mom: Can't you see I am using it now? You go and read.

       After a few minutes,

Mom: Swathi!! Didn't I tell you to read?

Me: Mom! I am reading!

Mom: Don't lie to me! If you are reading, then who is liking pictures on Facebook?

       Oops!! Now I can't use Facebook as and when I want when reading. Were we wrong in teaching her? I wasn't sure.

       Few more days and she knew how to use Facebook perfectly. And started the endless questions.

• Why are you online all the time?
• Who is that who liked you status?
• Why did he like your picture?
• Why does he comment on everything you post?
• Who is this friend of yours?
• Why are you tagged in this post?
• (When a friend posted a Thank you video on my timeline, which was so popular few months back) Why is he thanking you? Why video?
• (When she saw me liking a post of  a blogger friend, which said she was selected for an anthology) Why don't you put status like this? If you don't tell anyone about your achievements, who will?
• (And the best/worst - when/if I put a new DP) Don't you read the posts? It's not good for girls to put pictures on Facebook. How many times should I tell you this?

       When mom first started using Facebook, I thought it was so cool. But now? I feel like smacking my brother for teaching her! He told me few minutes ago that he is planning now to teach her how to use Whatsapp!! What? Why? How? I couldn't even think of a proper response for that! If my occasional Facebook usage can cause so much trouble, what will happen when she starts using Whatsapp? Well, I just know one thing for sure. I will never be able to fake sleep and chat with friends till late! God save me!

PS: I do love my mom. But sometimes, just sometimes, the questions are difficult to answer.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

A Magical Reality!

       She sat in the corner, cursing her son. All she wanted was him to spend time with her. But he was busy typing away something fervently on that 'thing' he loved. She never really understood what the big deal was about it. Everyone these days were becoming its devotee. Even her grandson, who was five, loved playing with it. She sighed remembering her good old days where playing meant going out and mingling with friends. "It feels like a different life time altogether" she thought. Whatever it was, she would never go near that, what was it, ah 'laptop' she said suddenly remembering the name of that 'thing'!

       "Ma, Spoorthi says it is a baby girl" she hears her son Aditya calling out and her anger melts away instantly at the mention of the good news. She had been waiting for this day ever since her daughter had informed her that she was expecting. She had been restless that whole day as she still hadn't heard from Spoorthi and had been to talk with Aditya about the same. When she had found him busy, her temper had flared. But now, the sweet news of a granddaughter had made her forget everything. Her face broke into a toothless smile. "Shall I start packing? I so want to see her" she said, already getting up and rushing towards her room, as fast as old age allowed her. There was no reply. She turned to see Aditya standing in the hallway with his head hanging. It was a look she recognized well. She knew from experience what he would say next and without missing a beat he said "Sorry ma. I have an important meeting tomorrow. We can't go for another two days" Her face fell. The smile adorning her face slowly vanished and she left without a word.

       That night she sat alone, wishing that she could go see her daughter and her little one. But without Aditya, she couldn't make the journey alone. Her health was uncertain and the doctor had forbidden her to travel alone. She knew Aditya was busy but still her heart refused to come in terms with that. "Ma?" Aditya came and sat near her holding his laptop. "Take that away from me. That is what keeps you busy all the time" she said, pain evident in her voice. "I will Ma. Before that, look at this just once" he said and placed the laptop in front of her. She was about to scold him when the most beautiful sight caught her eyes.

       There on the screen, she saw Spoorthi holding her little one, who was fast asleep. Her tiny fingers were closed tightly in a tiny fist and her face was angelic. The child’s little frame moved steadily with each breath it took. She didn't understand how it was that she was seeing all this but she cherished it. Her eyes welled up with tears of joy. "Bless you my child" she said extending her hand, which were slightly trembling, as if to touch the child and saw her daughter smile in response. And as for Aditya, he knew he would be forgiven. He said a silent thanks to Skype for making it possible!

PS: I had written this story as a part of my internship where I had to write a story based on the positive impact of technology. 

Linking this post to the Ultimate Blog Challenge July 2014 and NaBloPoMo.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

An Impossible Place!

Take me there,
Where only hope prevails,
Disappointments always fails!

Take me there,
Where happiness is dominant,
Only smiles are prominent.

Take me there,
Where tears are temporary,
And failures are unheard of!

Take me there,
Where fears don't exist,
And quitting is not an option!

Take me back,
To the days of innocence,
To the childhood that was carefree!

Oh I wish so much,
That I could go back,
And re-live those days again!

PS: Linking this post to Poetry Jam, the Ultimate Blog Challenge July 2014 and NaBloPoMo.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,
Swathi :)

Earning Respect

         There is a saying which we all might have heard - ‘If you give respect, then you will earn respect!’ Though I had understood it (or rather thought I did!) I witnessed it recently, which made me believe it is true indeed.

       Few weeks back I and my dad were going to market. I was enjoying the time alone with him, chatting and sharing thoughts as I rarely get such time with him due to his constant travelling. In the middle of our conversation, he received a call and I stood listening to the conversation. I didn't know who was on the other side but dad kept addressing him ‘Sir’ and so I figured it must be his boss, calling as dad was on leave. When the conversation ended, I casually asked him who it was. I was told it was his colleague and friend. I recognized him when dad mentioned his name. I felt quite strange and I kept quiet for the rest of the time, lost in my own thoughts.

       “Why are you quiet all of a sudden?” dad asked and I couldn't hold back voicing my thoughts. “Why did you call him Sir?” I asked. “Is there something wrong with that?” he asked surprised. I didn't know how to say exactly what was bothering me but I made an attempt to describe it as best as I could. “You mention every one as ‘Sir’ and I don’t really understand why you do so. I mean its good you are respecting them but why that word? Isn't being polite enough? I am not against respecting others but dad I hate it when you bow in front of others. It’s fine during office hours but why all the time? You address everyone like that” I said, feeling totally like an idiot but still wishing to convey what I was feeling.

       A smile crossed his face as he understood my emotions. He chose his words carefully when he answered. “Every person has his own self respect. We usually recognize people based on their designation but that is not a right thing to do. Even maids and servants have as much right to be respected as we do. Have you ever thought how much important each of their work is? And about the addressing, calling someone Sir/Madam doesn't make you inferior to them. It just means you are good enough to respect them as individuals. It will only earn you respect in return, not disgrace” he said.

       I was still silent processing what he had said in my mind when one of the Shop Keeper waved at him saying “Sir, how are you? Long time, no see!” he said smiling. I had come to this shop many times and from experience, I knew that he was one of the grumpiest person in the locality. He is short tempered and is known to snap at his customers all the time. If I had any doubt about what my dad had said earlier, seeing this person smile and chat friendly with him, had cleared it all. I finally understood his message.

PS: I am writing about #MyRoleModel as a part of the activity by Gillette India in association with BlogAdda.com.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

Captured Moments - Bits and Bytes #3

       There are some moments which we remember forever; some because of the smile they brought and some because of the pain they caused! Though we all wish to forget the latter, happy moments are something which we wish to re-live again and again. And what's a better way to re-live them than going through old pictures! I have quite a few collection in my laptop and I absolutely love going through them whenever I am free, recalling the memories associated with each one of them.

        My mom says I was an extremely naughty kid! Oh well, I am still naughty but since I don't spend all my energy troubling her now, maybe she thinks I am decent enough! So when I was a kid, I used to create fuss all the time and if there wasn't anyone to keep an eye on me, then God save my mom that day! She especially enjoys narrating the part of the baby walker. She says, so that I don't crawl out of bed or fall somewhere and hurt myself, she used to put me in the baby walker while she finished all her work. I had been quiet for first two days but once I got the hang of it, then there was no stopping me! I dragged the baby walker with me and started going round and round through out the house, shouting loudly with joy at the same time. She says though I was difficult to stop, it was a fun sight for her to watch but in the end, the punch line remained the same - that I was a hyper active and naughty kid!

      This is the picture proof of my naughtiness. This one is my favorite and it always makes me smile whenever I see it. Oh how I wish I could go back and live in that moment again!

       The next is a recent one. This was captured by me a year back from the Perampalli railway bridge, a place near Manipal.

       The place was so serene that I wished I lived there on the shores, so that I can enjoy this beauty everyday. I had been there in the evening. If I thought this was beautiful, then I was wrong. There was more than this perfection. The sunset! I witnessed the sky grow more and more beautiful as the sun started bidding good bye, painting the sky with its last rays, just like a master piece of a renowned artist, each strokes perfected over time! It was marvellous.

        But that wasn't it. The best part was yet to come! That was a railway bridge we were standing upon. So where's the fun if there is no train? After waiting for hours the train finally arrived. My brother had told me it will be an awesome experience but nothing had prepared me for what was yet to come! The place where we stood on the bridge is not more than 2-3 meters away from the track. It was dark; around 7 pm when the train finally arrived. It was moving at a speed of 100 km/hr or more and the whole bridge beneath us started shaking due to the speed. The air blew on my face with such an intensity that the rush was maddening. I held the rails of the bridges tightly as it felt like the bridge would fall off any moment! I shouted with joy, adrenaline racing through my veins, but my voice wasn't audible to my own ears under the roar of the engine! It felt like eternity till the train finally passed us and left but I stood there motionless for minutes wondering what had just happened! That was such an exhilarating experience, nothing like I had ever experienced! That is something I will always remember.

       I feel like I am experiencing those moments all over again whenever I see these photographs. That's the power of pictures. They can bring a smile on your face anytime. So what is your favorite memory?

PS: Linking this post to Write Tribe's Wednesday Prompt 2014 #19 

Until the next post,
Keep Smiling :)

Love,
Swathi :)

My Role Model

       I often hear in news about female foeticide and abandoning of the new born baby if it turns out to be a girl! There still are many places in India where this act happens but thankfully I live in a slightly developed town where these things occur less. Even so, I have been told that when I was born, there was certain disappointment among some people; they were expecting a boy, who would take ahead the glory of family to new heights. As if a girl couldn't do it!

      And there even were some people who pitied and blamed my maternal grandfather for his luck! He had 4 daughters and no son and I have heard my mom telling me stories of her childhood; how they were bullied by their cousins and how people would look down on him and pity him. Some even said that he might have committed some sin in his previous birth for which he was being punished now! Nonsense!! But he never paid heed to them; not then and certainly not now! He was happy and indeed counted us as blessings.

       I was his first and only granddaughter, the rest being grandsons; so I obviously was pampered a lot. I remember awaiting summer holidays so that I could visit him. He has inspired me in several ways ever since then. He is a man of divine patience and he believes in finding good in everything and everyone. He had a provision store until few years back and that was pretty famous in the whole town. He is respected by everyone and I feel proud saying I am his granddaughter. From narrating stories to me amidst his busy schedule to teaching me coping up with different situations, he did it all.

       I clearly remember an incident from my childhood. When I had been to Bhadravati (his place), I badly wanted to buy a sweet from the shop in front of our home. But I was sure that would earn me a little lecture about how that shop is not good and how he would get me something good later! No, I didn't want something good but I wanted the same thing I was eyeing, the white sweet which promised delight! So I slowly sneaked into my grandpa’s shop and took a rupee from the cash counter slowly. Right then he turned! I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw his eyes narrowing; there were a lot of people and I was becoming red in face thinking of the scene that would continue. But within a fraction of second, the smile returned and I was let go. I had rejoiced that I was successful in fooling him but I was wrong. Later that night I was chided for stealth. He had seen it but he had let me go for he didn't want to put me to shame in front of everyone.

       That day I had learnt the biggest lesson of my life – "If you are praising someone, then do it in front of everyone and if you have to scold someone, make sure you do it alone!" I have seen so many people shouting at others but my grandpa was a man of patience. And more over, just a disapproving from him look was enough to make you realize your mistake; there was no need for him to raise his voice. Whenever I visited him, I used to sit in his shop all the time, so I got a pretty good chance of knowing him. People used to call him ‘Anna’ (meaning brother) fondly. They loved talking to him and he always used to give chocolates to their kids. Oh they adored him!  I had seen him giving away goods to some people on credits and when I voiced my thoughts about how it’s a bad idea, he had said “Trusting is my choice. Proving me right or wrong is in their hands. Moreover, what goes around comes around. If you were meant to lose something, you will lose it anyhow”

       Now that all his daughters are married, he and my grandmother stay by themselves. I often see my mom worrying about it and I am worried too but he just brushes off any pleas of coming down to stay with us saying it isn't a big deal! Even at the age of 75, he gets up early at 4, does yoga, walks for 6 kms, completes daily chores at home and then runs his shop! Yes, he runs a steel shop on his own. He never sits idle; he says sitting idle is the only thing he hates! We even at this young age complain about work load being too much or days going bad but seeing him, I feel inspired. He always is enthusiastic when it comes to learning new things and never thinks twice before helping some one in need. 

       He was there for me all along; right from my first cycle to my first mobile, he was the one bought them for me and the one who shared my joys. Some people give you free advice for every problem of yours without even knowing half of the things but he is a man of knowledge and he practices what he preaches. Whenever I used to complain about the unfairness of life when something bad happened, he used to assure me everything had a purpose and good and bad are indeed two faces of a coin! So many of my life’s lessons I have learnt from him and I still continue to look up to him whenever I need guidance. He truly is a role model for me. His patience, his ease with which he handles things and the kindness are something which I wish I can learn.

       I so wanted to take a selfie for this activity but couldn't as we live in different places! Still I didn't want to miss adding his photo here.

My lovely grandfather - Sheshgiri Bhat

PS: I am writing about #MyRoleModel as a part of the activity by Gillette India in association with BlogAdda.com.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

The Truth

    He was tensed from morning, searching for the document throughout the house! He was sure he had kept it in his study room but they were nowhere to be seen. 

       As she watched her dad tensed, she realized that she could no longer hide the truth. She went forward slowly and held out the paper.

       Anger surged through him as he saw the clumsy drawings across the sheet. He chided her for spoiling his document.

image source: www.buzzle.com

       A tear escaped his eyes later when he saw the picture of father with “love you dad” written for him by his five year old!

PS: Linking this post to 100 Words on Saturday #13 by Write Tribe.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

My Mom - My Best Friend

       I sat for a long time wondering what I could possibly write about this topic - mother's day! People are setting up status all over Whatsapp and FB to wish their mom's as I struggle to find words to express my thoughts about it. And finally I decide to scribble everything that comes to my mind when I think of my angel!

       People usually say, daughters are close to their dads and son to mother. But it was reverse in my case; mommy has always been my favorite (I love you too dad, but this one is for mom!) and I don't mind the slightest being called mommy's daughter. Mother is that person sent to us by God as he can't be present everywhere and not even for a single split second do I doubt that saying! She loves us right from the time she hadn't set her eyes on us and no length of time can ever shimmer her love even for a tiny bit! It was always the same bright and brilliant light that has enveloped me with love and care, gently guiding me towards the right path.

       When I was in primary, I had been a hyper active kid and I used to participate in everything - every single event and competition announced had my name in it! It required someone to drop and pick me from various places they were conducted. Unfortunately, dad was working in some other town and he used to leave as early as 5 am and return late at midnight. This left my mom with no other choice but to do it herself. While this doesn't seem like that big task to anyone, it was, for her! The environment she was brought up in, she had never set a foot out alone and she never had been anywhere on her own! She never had the courage to do it, as she says. But for me, and for the fulfillment of my dreams, she did it. She came everywhere with me as situation demanded and stood there as my pillar of support, finding solace in my happiness.

       It still wasn't as easy! My grandparents are still of the idea that it isn't good for a girl child to go out much. I remember them saying me just to concentrate on studies; these extra curricular activities weren't meant for me, they were just distractions! I had cried hearing those words for my dreams were at the verge of shattering but they didn't; for my mom was there, standing with me, helping me face all the odds and nudging me towards my dream. She never let me realize how difficult it was for her to do this; looking back now, I realize it must have been pretty difficult, with everyone opposing her. But she took it all quietly just so that it doesn't affect me in anyways!

       Growing up, I have had my share of fights with her. The transition to a teenager was when I was very stubborn. I used to throw fits, make a fuss of everything and I never listened to her patient words! I was a real pain to deal with during my high school years. Now when I look back and think about those days, it aches my heart to realize how much pain I might have caused her. But she never complained. She was patient while seeing me go through it all and still she was my guide in every step I took, making sure I never wavered from the right path!

       She is the best of a friend I could ever get! She has seen me at my best and also at my worst. She has rejoiced whenever I won and wiped my tears when I failed. We have laughed and cried together. She listens to me when I wail about my fears, my insecurities and never ceases to help me find hope when everything seems to be going wrong. The person who loves the most when I write, is her. Though she has difficulties reading long posts in English as she read in Kannada medium, she still sits in front of computer and earnestly reads everything I write and beams with happiness.

       She is that one person for whom I would do anything; my teacher, mentor, guide, inspiration, friend and my love. Mother's day isn't enough to thank her! Everyday is mother's day for me. Wishing her smiles and happiness always :) Love you Amma :)
       

Until the next post,
Keep Smiling :)

Love,
Swathi :)

J for Jealousy!!

       The first time ever in my life that I felt jealous, which I have a clear memory of, was when I was five! It wasn't for any toy nor was it about anything that could be bought! It was about sharing love! Yes you read it right! Now you might be thinking why on earth a five year old could possibly worry about sharing love! Don’t be surprised. I will tell you why.

       When I was five, my little brother was born. As much as the whole concept appeared like a miracle to me, I hated him because I clearly wanted a sister! And this guy, as soon as he had appeared, had started taking my place. My mom was at her native place when he was born and so was I along with her till then. But once he was born, I was sent back with my dad to our home. Reason? I would be bothersome and it would be difficult for mom to look after us both at the same time! He had just arrived and was taking all the attention!

       I used to throw tantrums and make fuss till mom finally came back. I had missed her so much! And that guy, I was still a little angry with him. The people who came to visit, instead of saying “What a darling daughter you have!” as before, started to say “Oh you have such a cute baby boy! He looks exactly like you. He has your nose, eyes… Blah blah blah!” He had started to take the lime light as soon as he was born! My grandparents, who always used to play with me, now were his devotees! My aunt, who used to buy toys for me earlier, now bought them for him. And my mom, she used to spend all the time with him. Whenever she took some time to be with me, he used to cry and she had to go. And what about me? I tried to seek attention too, by crying or creating fuss. But I was told to adjust. Why? Because I was the elder one! I was very jealous of him and the way every one used to ogle him.

       I was sent to school but he got to stay home all the time. He slowly started taking control over everything that was mine. My room, my toys, my TV, everything!! But along with all these, he took over something else too, my heart! When a baby that cute, whom everyone used to adore, adored me, the feeling was unexplainable. Slowly I was becoming his captive too. I stopped creating fuss to get noticed. Instead I started to play with him during my free times. I actually waited for those times. And when he first spoke, instead of saying mom like every kid does, he said “akka” (meaning sister) I was on cloud nine. The jealousy, long forgotten, had now turned into a beautiful relation, the one in which there is no place for anything negative as such! The beautiful relation of siblings…

See the honors at Tangy Tuesday Picks - April 15, 2014

PS: Linking this post to the A-Z Challenge 2014 and Ultimate Blog Challenge April 2014.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

A Day To Remember..

Today is the day off from A-Z challenge but I have to write as I am participating in the Ultimate Blog Challenge. And also it happens to be my darling brother's birthday today. Wishing him the best in everything he does, here goes today's post.

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“So it was a trap” he exclaimed when he saw what I was up to.

I had told him we would be going for shopping as I needed to buy some stuff urgently.

But we now stood inside the hotel, to celebrate his birthday.

“Don’t be a baby; just do it” I said as he saw me with an expression which clearly said he loved the surprise.

As I saw him blow the candles, an unexpected visitor made its appearance.

I wiped my tears away as he gave me the first bite.

“Happy Birthday” was all I managed to say!

image source: greetingsnwishes.com

 PS: This post is a part of Write Tribe's Wednesday Prompt #11,  Write Over the Weekend, an initiative for Indian Bloggers by BlogAdda, Write Tribe's 100 Words Saturday #10 and  Ultimate Blog Challenge April 2014.

                  

Until the next post,
Keep Smiling :)

Love,
Swathi :)

  

THE GREATEST LOVE!

She smiles when I’m happy

And cries when I’m sad

Her joys lie with mine,

My success and my smiles!

Gentle as the evening breeze,

When my deeds are good.

But fierce as a storm,

When I do something wrong

I have hurt her million times,

But she never fails to forgive!

She always believes in me,

My constant support all time!

Heart pure as Gold,

And patience so divine!

She can sacrifice her dreams,

Just so I can have mine.

Is there any love

That’s as pure and selfless?

Nothing can beat Mother’s love,

It’s greatest of them all!

PS: This post is a part of 100 Words on Saturday by Write Tribe.

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)

SUNDAY FUN ACTIVITY

        I finally had got the much needed break I longed for from so many days. But that wasn’t free of cost! I had traded this freedom with one of the events I wanted to take part in Techzone (Well what Techzone is, is for another post) I finally got to spend Sunday morning lazing around without having much to do. Well I did have assignments to complete but that was for later. All I wanted was some lazy time. But things seldom go as you wish and soon I got another work to do. To get my voter ID card corrected. I wanted to get it corrected from so many days but didn't have time for it. And today they had come near my home and mom wanted me to get it corrected when I had a chance. There goes my lazy Sunday!!!

        So I started filling form. My grandpa had warned me to pen it down elsewhere first and then to copy to the form. But since I was on the lazy mode, I directly started filling form and being the absent minded girl that I am, I wrote it wrong! Trying not to bring this to my parents’ notice for the fear I might be chided for my over confidence, I slowly tried applying the whitener. But that damn thing had stopped working. I tried, tried and tried but it was of no use! Still not willing to give up I slowly opened the nozzle and turned the whole thing upside down. Since it wasn't working, I had assumed that thing to be empty but for the love of God, it started spitting whole fluid on my hands! I was lucky that there was a waste sheet of paper I was experimenting with earlier to shield the form from this or I dare not imagine what the outcome would have been!

        By this time, my disastrous experiment caught my mom’s attention and she called out my brother to help me out while removing the form and keeping it in a safer place. My brother was very careful not to touch the ink spilled for he didn't want to get his hands stained where as my left hand had totally turned white, like I had got painted my hand with a white paint. I slowly went to the sink and started washing both my hands. I was just thinking how silly I was to have done such a thing when my brother screamed “Are you out of your mind?” At first I didn't understand what he was talking about but when I followed his eyes, I was equally appalled! Both my hands were now White as the snow! And I had a function to attend in the evening where I would be receiving prize! Whitener fluid isn't something that can be washed off easily! I imagined going up the stage with these hands and shuddered at the thought! I thought I was doomed…

        That’s when my brother stared taking action. He brought a bottle of kerosene, an old brush and started to wipe off the marks slowly by frequently dipping the brush in kerosene. He kept saying that he wouldn't have done it if I didn't have a function to attend. It took him nearly 10 minutes to wash off all the stains. When he was done, it was his turn to panic. In the process of helping me, he had completely stained his hands. And I couldn't help but laugh at the expression. But having seen how I had messed up, he was careful not to spread the stain further and washed it off effectively unlike me!

         When both of us were done, we came back inside where I found mom washing her hands. When I asked what happened, she said she was trying to help us by putting the nozzle back and now she too had stains on her hands which refused to go! I and my brother looked at each other for a second and then both burst out laughing. It was a fun filled time, all thanks to the whitener (or probably to my absent mind!) And yes! I am never going to open the nozzle of a whitener ever again in my life!!

Until the next post,

Keep Smiling :)

Love,

Swathi :)