The Ouija Board: It will Haunt You!! – Part 1

There was nothing special about that Friday morning. Emil, Sarah and Keith were on their way to college on their bicycles. Sarah was exceptionally silent that day. Keith as usual was busy cracking some poor jokes which neither Sarah listened nor Emil responded to. Emil was silently observing Sarah, as he rode beside her. Her unusual silence disturbed him. He suddenly overtook her and stopped her, “Sarah, hope everything’s fine or can I help you in some way?” Sarah did not reply. Her face had an exceptional charm which always amazed him to the core. Sarah looked towards the bushes nearby and mumbled, “Holy spirit…”

Emil and Keith looked at each other. Keith realized that his PJs would be of no use in the situation and asked Sarah, “Girlie, what’s the matter? Are you hiding something from us?” Sarah turned to Keith as if she met him for the first time. Her eyes were sharp yet beautiful, her dark hair splattered in disarray over her shoulders. “Hey, what happened guys,” she asked. Emil couldn’t believe how casual she sounded, as if everything was just normal. Emil and Keith looked at each other in disbelief again. Emil asked, “Sarah, what’s this nonsense, what are you chanting?” Sarah bent over, firmly grasped the cycle handle and said, “Oh it’s nothing, it’s just the board, the Ouija board”, she suddenly bit her tongue as if she had said something she shouldn’t have and continued, “Hey we are getting late for Prof. Tim’s classes, I think we should hurry”, she moved ahead leaving the other two baffled. “Now, what is this Ouija board business Emil?” Keith couldn’t hide his anxiety. Emil kept quiet and followed Sarah. Keith stood there for about a minute, but a strange noise from the bush shook him up. A deep chill ran through his mind. He couldn’t stand there for long…

To be Continued

 

People Watching is Fun!

Today one of my colleagues complained, ” its sooo boring to watch people chitchatting when you have nothing to do, but watch them!” Ehem, Is it so? Well, if asked me I would say “Nooo”, because that is one thing I love to do – Watching people! And just for that, I love my way back home in the VOLVO I get to see soo much interesting faces, get to (over)hear soo much interesting discussions, and get to understand soo much about the small world around me.

Yesterday, three cute little girls (probably in 9th or 10th standard) boarded the bus. There were two other boys with them. One among the girls took the ticket. She said, “5 Bridge”, and once she grabbed her ticket, she started blaming the two boys (who were standing at peace far behind them). She was quite loud when she said, ” I dont understand, why should we take their tickets. Well, this is not the first time this is happening. I absolutely hate this…shameless morons!!!” she sighed. The other two agreed with her. Now, after this small gossip session, their talks went on about the ones who were standing next to them, about planning a trip together, about their new boyfriends and on and on…I was enjoying their cutie conversations a lot, and at times couldn’t hold back my laughter. I have also come through the same age, travelling in bus with friends. We never really bothered about the ones standing around us. We used to talk loudly, pass secrets and laugh madly as if we were in a different world, enjoying life. I can still recollect some angry frowning faces who looked at us as if we had done a murder:) Now,  with these lil girls, I knew I too was enjoying…

After they got down, another bunch of 3 girls got in. Collegians…stylish, naughty and again carefree!!! Two Bongs and one Tamilian. Will call them Inky, Pinky and Shreya.  These gals seemed to be totally switched off from the rest of the world.  The sleepy driver was playing a Kannada fast number, thinking he would suck some motivation to concentrate on his job. But I think, the effect was on Inky,  as she instantly started dancing to  the Kannada tune! Shreya was finding it hard to control her.

Inky was too restless after the dance session and wanted some more fun. She asked Shreya to teach her some bad words in Tamil. And there started a great flow of %^&$*(*)_&^words in Bengali and Tamil..Well I too mugged up some:)

The bus was moving in a sluggish pace, and now Pinky started, “Know guys,  I think this bus is gonna topple, then Inky will die, followed by Shreya and all others in the bus except me… She started laughing. Jeez,  till then I was enjoying their blabbering but then suddenly an unknown fear passed through me. I knew I was being stupid for taking their talks seriously, but still when it comes to Death….

Is this gal mad or was she trying to mock the Sammy guy (Final Destination)…my thought process  went on. I  was disturbed from the same when the driver stopped the bus suddenly, as there was an accident just ahead. Now now, a lil bit of nervousness swept over me. Though her prediction was different, the little devil succeded in passing on what she really wanted to.  My stop was nearing and I was more than in a hurry to get down, thanks to Pinky!

Hey TidBits, am back again!

Ive not touched this space for long now. My laziness is to be blamed. Today was just going through some interesting posts on writer Preeti Shenoy’s blog. I immediately got connected with her blog. The posts were so refreshing, so true and straight from the heart. She talks about happiness, sorrow, fun, relationships, beauty and moreover feelings and thoughts which people rarely speak about, or even if some do,  they wear a mask!

So what am I trying to say here? Nothing. Just wanted to thank Preeti for reminding me that I too have my TidBits , still alive in some corner of the online space!

Im a pet lover now!!!

   And yes, as lechu (my new puppy) entered our lives, my pet hatredness took this strange U turn and it was so sudden!! Two weeks she was with us…playing, sleeping, walking, running, loving and then we decided to take her to Kerala and hand her over to Soo’s parents. The reason…she was a female and she had to be given proper care:( It was a real pain to leave her behind… We have now placed an order for a male GSD puppy (Lechus brother) and hope it will bring the smile back to our faces.:)

After a Breakkk!!!!

  Ts been long time since ive posted anything in my blog. Can someone gimme pills to recover from my lazinesss…btw my cula is doin fine. Shes got a new pot now, a bigger one, as we thought its time for her to spread in a bigger space shes got a new neighbour too. I call her kingini, and thats my new fenugreek (uluva) plant!!

and the bigger news is that a new member will arrive in the family today and thats soo’s friend a German Shepherd pup. Hes so excited, but i somehow as u know have this aversion towards pets! But u know there are times when you have to respect ur partner’s likings too hmmm But hope it doesnt break my holiday plans! 

Blogadda

Cula is Back :)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And finally my kutty cula is back to life – smiling, glowing and spreading a quaint charm… All you well-wishers, thanking you again!!

She got three good rains and finally even without letting me know, she turned green again!

I still remember the days when she was  defiant against any kind of life sustaining methods. I even thought about mercy killing. But she was silently telling me, ” I will be back”. Hmmm.. shes teaching me new things everyday and yes one great lesson she has imparted through her life is that,
“When you really want something to happen, the whole universe conspires so that your wish comes true”

Happy for Cula!!

Happy Women’s Day!

“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams Live the life you’ve imagined…” -Henry David Thoreau

 Happy Women’s Day!!!!!!!!!!

Worried about Cula :(

Cula is showing no signs of improvement. Am deeply worried

Holiday Weightloss: Things to Remember!

Hurray! It’s a holi holiday. Enjoy your days playing, partying, picnicing, sleeping, drinking or cooking! But, amidst all fun and frolic, don’t ignore one important thing – your body weight! A smart planning can help you stay in shape despite all the merriment!

Check your food & drinks

Eat healthy, drink healthy and be healthy! It sums up everything you need to do for a healthy body. It is very natural that during holidays you enjoy more and forget your diet plan or exercise regimen. But if you are very keen on your fitness, follow a strict routine that keeps you away from bloating.

• Say ‘no’ to foods rich in calories
• Never skip your breakfast, as this may force you to have heavy meals
• Include a good amount of fresh fruits and veggies to your diet
• Do not over eat or skip your meals before attending any function
• At functions or hotels, give more preference to soups and salads
• No red meat, no alcohol
• Holidays without some ‘spirit’ will be as bitter as chocolate without sugar, but as the calorie content in alcohol is high; you have to limit it or avoid it
• Prepare some healthy and nutritious dishes at home instead of eating out.

A few low calorie foods you can try are baby corn delight, strawberry pancakes, roasted veggies, vermicelli and so on.

Work it out

Exercise is the cheapest and easiest way to lose weight. What you need is just a few minutes. So even if you have food carelessly, exercising may help you burn down the excess fat. Remember the more you eat, the more you should work out. In case you find it difficult to stretch your body, go for a walk. Enjoy some music while walking, as this will keep you relaxed. During holidays, you can make exercising more pleasurable by involving your family or friends. Yoga or meditation can also help you stay fit.

Socialize

When you attend a function or party, utilize most of your time mingling with people. This may keep you away from the tempting delights for a while. If you eat alone, the temptation to eat more may increase. So have food along with your friends! You will also get to hear comments on your body when you socialize. You can also invite friends to your home by throwing a nutritious party! Make low calorie food items and create a difference.

Sleep Tight

Sleep is an essential factor for a healthy body. Most of them spend holidays partying, watching movies or playing games. Everything is fine as long as it is not stretched till late night. Deprivation of sleep may make you dull. You may not feel like doing anything the next day. So, sleep tight!

Have confidence

Always believe in yourself. Just say ‘I can do’ and you can achieve anything. Remember, you are the only person who can help you.

Follow these simple rules during your holidays and be happy about your body!

A New Experience!

I have a habit of writing diary when Im really pissed off. But I have never written a blog before. I know I cant use this as a personal diary as you will be reading it. Nor am I as audacious as Meenakshi.

Today was a day that inspired me to write a poem. But I didn’t! While telling this I remember how I wrote a poem for the first time. While I was doing my Masters in English, the university fest approached. I never participated in any competitions. But that day, the poet of our college was absent and somebody had to fill the space. So thats how I became the filler poet!

The topic was given-Open Windows. I seriously didn’t know what to write. I had several butterflies in my stomach when I realised that I was competing with 50 others! I simply looked at my blank paper. After 30 minutes, I scribbled something. 

 The previous day, Prof D told us a story, where the female protagonist gets ditched by her lover. She gives birth to his baby but eventually kills it. After a year, she re-marries but she is unable to open the windows for her new husband. Well, there lies the theme for my poem. I just gave it a try…scribbled the story in a very ‘poetic’ way with a naughty smile I was the first to leave the hall.

The next day, one of my friends woke me up saying I ‘ve bagged the first prize! I was shocked. Just shocked! I  opened my room windows and smiled… So am I a poet now…hehhehehehe

Shimla: It takes your breath away!

You may feel I am a bit exaggerating when my headline goes after the colon saying ‘It takes your breath away!’ Seriously No. May be that’s what I too felt (exaggeration) when some of my friends told me about Shimla. But after having been there, if  somebody asks me to describe the place, I would say, “One of the most beautiful, enchanting, romantic and indeed breath taking destination.” If I keep on describing the beauty of this place, I am sure I can’t provide any other info about the place. So here I go…

 

From Bangalore to Delhi:

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Me and my husband were a bit confused regarding our honeymoon spot. Suggestions came from various circles – Munnar, Ooty, Thailand, Lakshwadeep, Manali etc. Finally we decided: Shimla

 

As it was an early morning flight from Bangalore – Delhi, we had to cut short our sleep. We reached the airport on time, boarded the flight and within a few hours reached Delhi.

Stepping down at Delhi was like going near a boiling bowl. We booked a hotel room near the airport. Though we wanted to roam around, the hot weather forced us to stay back in the AC room.

 

Our next step was to book tickets to Shimla. We found our way to Delhi ISBT (Kashmere Gate), booked two Volvo bus tickets to Shimla and went back to the hotel. To be frank, we had no proper planning before our visit as we had decided to plan on-the-go. The bus to Shimla started the next day evening from Delhi.

 

 

At Nature’s lap: Shimla

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Early morning we reached Shimla. We did not book any hotels there, but had done a random research from a café when we were at Delhi. Based on that knowledge, we hired a cab and reached our hotel – East Bourne Resort. I would say it was one of the best hotels I have ever been to. The hotel manager gave us a paper which included some sightseeing spots and routes. It was a package trip with the cab arranged by the hotel. Out of the 5 options provided in the sight seeing notice, we selected the first option-

Shimla-Hassan Valley-Kufri-Indira holiday home-Fagu-Mashobra-Naldehra.

 

After our breakfast the next day morning, we began our trip in the cab. Here are the details (distance from Shimla given in kms):

 

 Hassan Valley: 13 kms. Offers ideal walks amidst oak and pine trees. Superb view of thick deodar forest.

 

Kufri: 16 kms. Famous for skiing (provided you go during the peak season)

 

Indira holiday home: 18 kms and near to Kufri, Deodar forests at an altitude of 2,623 mts. You can also enjoy Yak, pony riding and visit the mini zoo.

 

Fagu: 22kms. Commands a beautiful view of Giri valley surrounded by Apple orchards.

 

Mashobra: 13 kms. Ideal picnic spot with lawns and gardens.

 

Naldehra: Among giant deodar and undulating mounds, lies a nine hole golf course, one of the oldest in India.

 

By the time we reached the hotel we were tired of the pony rides and long walks. Just into the bed was the only aim.

 

Apart from the places mentioned above other worth seeing spots in Shimla are Jakhoo hill, which is Shimla’s highest peak. It offers a panoramic view of the town. The Sankat Mochan temple on the national highway is a must see. This hanuman temple offers an excellent view of Shimla. Narkanda – this sleepy hamlet provides you a breath taking view of snow clad Himalayas. Last but not the least is the Tara Devi temple and Tattapani, which is famous for its hot sulphur springs.

 

 

On a shopping spree

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Right from day one, I had been planning for some shopping. I had heard that good quality metal work shawls, handicraft items and Tibetan carpets are available in Shimla. I also had plans to buy some Kashmiri churidars. One day was exclusively set for shopping. The Mall road is a busy shopping area with branded and local showrooms. I was searching for something which could be purely attributed to Shimla and which kept the memories of the place ever green in our thoughts. At last I found some handmade dolls which were remarkably beautiful. And now, I have them placed in my drawing room, so that every time I look at it, I can go back to Shimla!

India and Obama!

Obama is the next US president. But how does it matter to India? 
Well, when my husband asked me about it, I was a bit baffled. I have been reading many reports about Obama in the newspaper. Even daily reports on Indians praying for his victory! Whats so special about him? I agree on his international appeal and its good to know that he is the first US prez of an African-American descent !

But how does his victory matter to India?  I did a small research and here are the few things I have found out. The points mentioned here are taken from the article written by YPFP member Dhruva Jaishankar. It was first published in The Indian Express on April 23, 2008 (www.ypfp.org), also from www.merinews.com.

There may be missing points. Contibutions are welcome!

 
With a civilian nuclear deal hanging in the balance, a depressing forecast for the global economy and the spectre of Islamic extremism continuing to haunt the subcontinent, the US presidential elections are of special interest in India.

- Obama voted for the Hyde Act in 2006, but famously introduced an amendment that threatened fuel supply assurances to India.

- He also voted in favour of so-called ‘killer amendments’ which would have made the deal impossible from India’s vantage point.

- Obama does not take kindly to the American jobs being shipped overseas and may resort to tough measures against it, which could hurt the booming outsourcing industry in India.

- The US position on Kashmir under Obama administration is expected to remain unchanged with emphasis on dialogue and plebiscite.

- A number of radical changes can be expected from an Obama foreign policy, some of which will directly affect India. Obama and his foreign policy advisers will almost certainly emphasise a renewal of the non-proliferation agenda. It may also mean altering or amending aspects of the civilian nuclear deal with India.

- “The Democrats are much more likely to want to revisit the nuclear proliferation implications [of the nuclear deal],” says Bruce Riedel, who is among Obama’s advisers. “That would complicate the relationship with New Delhi.”

- Regardless of the nuclear dimensions of the relationship, there is a feeling that an Obama presidency would continue emphasising the importance of a growing India. “There’s talk of a strategic partnership with India. The Obama campaign buys into that,” says Riedel. “As president, he will place the same priority on India as Bush did, and Clinton did before him.” Philip Gordon, another Obama adviser who was Director for European Affairs in Clinton’s National Security Council, agrees. “India is an increasingly important country,” he says. “It’s a recognition of reality.”

- The widespread speculation that Obama will include leading Republicans in his administration may also assuage fears in New Delhi of a significant break from Bush’s policies towards India.

- Obama sees Afghanistan and Pakistan as “the central front of the war against al Qaeda and the war against extremism.”

- “Obama looks at the world a different way from a typical American president,” says Gordon. Obama, whose father was from Kenya, lived for four years as a child in Indonesia. His campaign also recently revealed that he had visited Karachi and Hyderabad as a college student, although they did not specify whether the latter was the Indian or Pakistani city.

 

Some Good Reads: http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/nov/04look3.htm

http://www.time.com/time/politics/article/0,8599,1856560,00.html?iid=tsmodule

Horror Movies: Get ready for it!

Let me explain to you why I chose this topic.

I love watching thrillers. But when I searched the net hoping to find the names of some horror flicks, I was disappointed. Though there were some info about the same, overall it was a failure. So I decided to give a list of some horror movies that I have watched. Maybe someone like me (who surfs the net for some chilling experience) may find it useful. I have also rated it according to my descretion.

 So get ready to slip under your blankets on FRIDAYS!!!!!!!

English:

The Marsh (2006)

A young beautiful but stressed out children’s writer seeks out a holiday in the country but becomes the lead character in a supernatural mystery she must solve to save her life.

Cast: Gabrielle Anwarm, Justin Louis, Forest Whitaker, Peter MacNeill.

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦♦

Beneath (2007)

Christy (Zehetner) returns to her hometown years after a car accident that disfigured her older sister. Haunted by the accident in which she was the driver, she learns that her worst nightmares have either come true … or are about to.

Cast: Nora Zehetner, Carly Pope,  Don S. Davis

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦

The Others (2001)

A woman who lives in a darkened old house with her two photosensitive children becomes convinced that her family home is haunted.

Cast: Nicole Kidman, Fionnula Flanagan Christopher Eccleston, Alakina Mann

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦♦♦

Shutter (2008)

A newly married couple discovers disturbing, ghostly images in photographs they develop after a tragic accident. Fearing the manifestations may be connected, they investigate and learn that some mysteries are better left unsolved.

Cast: Joshua Jackson, Rachael Taylor, Megumi Okina, David Denman

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦

 

The Morgue (2008)

About six strangers who find themselves stranded overnight at a rural morgue.

Cast: Bill Cobbs. Lisa Crilley, Chris Devlin, Heather Donahue

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦♦

 

An American Haunting (2005)

Based on the true events of the only case in US History where a spirit caused the death of a man.

Cast: Donald Sutherland, Sissy Spacek, James D’Arcy,  Rachel Hurd

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦

 

The Exorcist (1973)

Something beyond comprehension is happening to a little girl on this street, in this house. A man has been called for as a last resort to try and save her. That man is The Exorcist.

Cast: Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Lee J. Cobb, Kitty Winn

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦♦♦

Also watch:

The Omen

The Ring

The Shining

 Silence of the Lambs

Frankenstein

The Devil’s Rejects

Wait Until Dark

Friday the 13th

Hindi:

1920

The year is 1920 and the house is isolated in the wilderness has a secret. It is waiting for the curse to come true. For years everyone who has bought the house and tried to pull it down has died under strange circumstances

Cast: Rajneesh Duggal, Adha Shrma

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦♦♦

 

Phoonk

 The story of a confirmed atheist whose beliefs are shaken up when his loved ones are subjected to forces whose very existence his rational mind.

Cast: Sudeep, Amrita Khanvilkar, Ahsaas Chana

 I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦

Krishna Cottage

The movie is set in motion with the launch of a book by an eminent author [Raj Zutshi]. This book is different in the sense that it presents nine-and-a-half stories – the final story has been left incomplete by the author since he couldn’t think of an appropriate ending. The book has a secret to tell

Cast: Sohail Khan, Isha Koppikar

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦

Raaz

Sanjana and Aditya retreat to Ooty to give a last chance to their crumbling marriage. But the break turns into a nightmare when Sanjana starts hearing screams. A spirit is haunting Sanjana, while Aditya is hiding a secret that could steer him from life to death.

Cast: Bipasha Basu, Dino Morea

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦♦

Bhoot

Vishal, a stock analyst, and his wife Swati are in search for a flat in Mumbai. Vishal finds the perfect place on the 12th floor of a high-rise apartment building. However, the apartment has a horrifying past. The previous occupant of the flat, a young woman had killed her child and jumped from the balcony and died. Swati learns about this incident shortly after moving in and becomes oddly fixated with the story. Then, a series of inexplicable experiences drive Swati to near madness.

Cast: Ajay Devgan, Urmila Matondkar

I would rate it (Out of 5 diamonds): ♦♦♦♦

Old stocks: Gehrayee, Jaadu Tona, Dahshat (1980), Purana Mandir (1984), Haveli (1985), Saamri (1985), Veerana (1985), Tahkhana (1986), Dak Bangla (1987), Purani Haveli (1989), Shaitani Ilaaka (1990).

 

Mumbai attacks: A heartfelt tribute to the departed souls!

       Blood, attacks, bombs, deaths…everyday you turn the newspaper to see atleast one report on the same. Where are we heading to? What is the future? When will this stop? How are we going to tackle it? Questions are many! Any clear answers? I don’t think so.

The recent Taj encounter in Mumbai kept the entire nation worried! Brave commandos fought relentlessly to bring down the curtains. They succeeded at last, but many lost their lives…Valuable lives, I should say.

One thing you can never escape(even though you would have escaped from the gunpoint of the terrorist) from is hearing the blame game: The Wall Street Journal blamed India’s political leadership for the terror attacks, the BJP blamed the UPA govt, UPA says BJP is making it their poll agenda, Mumbai CM is almost on the verge of quitting…So, will it help?

One thing is true, Mumabi is angry and the days are not far ahead when someone like the protagonist in the film ‘A Wednesday’ will come forward and do the needful. Atleast hope so!

There is no guarantee for tomorrow. Why tomorrow, you cant say what happens to you the next hour, minute or even second. The next time you blink your eyes, it may be just dust, smoke, blood or even eternity! Just reminds me of Tom and Jerry! Strange though! But we have no other way out. We have to live knowing that we may be the next victims!

What are they aiming at? To send terror waves across the states in India? Or to tell others that “Yes we are pretty much strong”?

 Just read a report on the Taj encounter in rediff, where an NSG commando explains the level of brutality of the terrorists. Though he did not give a detailed report, he confirmed that the hostages were denied food and water for 3 days. “Some of the guards and the guests were tortured and some of them were bled to death. A guard and a guest were found dead in a room. They were stripped, beaten, their legs chained and were bled to death. The hostages who were with the terrorists were kept in a room and were made to kneel down on the floor at all times. It looks like they killed at least five hostages every day. However, most of the hostages were killed on the last day of the operation when they realized that the battle was coming to an end. ”

“The terrorists achieved what they wanted to and have managed to send out panic waves across the country though they were defeated at the end.” (Rediff)

How did terrorists find an easy way into one of the finest and highly guarded 5 star hotels in Mumbai? Reports also say that some time in August, the IB told the Taj Group to be careful about an attack on the hotel. It did not specify that it may come from the sea, but said it could be around September 11, and foreigners could be prime targets. Since no attacks happened on the day, had the security measures lapsed after that?

Well why am I moving on to the same nasty ‘blame game’. Instead let me offer a bunch of flowers on the graves and say ‘RIP’

A day trip to Cagayan de Oro!

Cagayan de Oro, the capital of Misamis Oriental, exudes a special warmth and charm that it’s rightly known as the ‘City of Golden Friendship’. Mesmerizing landscapes, excellent transportation facilities, interesting water sports and most importantly the admirable hospitality that you enjoy in Cagayan de Oro makes it a much preferred holiday destination. If you are in Cagayan, there are a few fantastic sites nearby the city that are worth visiting.
Catanico Falls
A small and narrow fall located around 10 kilometers away from the city limits, the Catanico falls is nature’s gift to mankind. Surrounded by stone boulders, the falls gush down to a natural swimming pool. The spot is ideal for trekkers and adventure lovers as the area is a bit isolated one. Parking facility is also limited. Picnic huts are available for rent, if required.
Huluga Cave
Around eight kilometers south of the city is the Huluga Cave which is more than 80 feet high. The Heritage Conservation Advocates claim that the cave is the home of the native people of Cagayan. Many native tools such as beads, stone tools, spoons, pots, pendants, axe tip and iron pieces have been found inside the cave. So, people who are interested in exploration and archeology should never miss the cave.
Mawapa Nature Park
Head towards the north and you are out of the city’s chaos. Mawapa Nature Park invites you to the lap of Mother Nature. Horse riding, nature trails, zip lines and a trek to the eco centre adds thrill to the experience. You need to rent a vehicle to visit the place. The roads are rough, so try to make the trip during day time. There is an entrance fee of 40 Pesos per head. The Mawapa National Park is open to public from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am to 5pm on weekdays and 7:30am to 5pm on weekends.
Historical sites located a few kilometers away from the city such as Museo de Oro, La Castilla Museum, waterfalls such as Migtugsok Falls, water sports such as kayaking, whitewater rafting, Pinoy water tubing will enrich the Cagayan experience.
For moving around the city and outside the city, air-conditioned taxis and buses are readily available. If you want to go the Camiguin Island, a pear shaped volcanic island, approximately 90 kilometers north of the City of Cagayan de Oro, you can get a ferry from either Cagayan de Oro harbor or Balingonan town. Flights are also available to the island from Cebu.

A day trip to the San Blas Islands!

How will it feel when you are in a lovely island surrounded by clear blue waters, white sand and green vegetation? Romantic, isn’t it? This is what San Blas Islands, a few miles away from the Panama City promises. People at all age can find their world of happiness and enjoyment in this magnificent island.

Around the San Blas Islands
Most of the hotels will offer you day trips to other small islands nearby the San Blas Islands. Tourists can also visit the neighboring islands by paddled canoes or motorized boats. If you like, the locals can take you to any island of your choice in their ferries for a very decent rate.

You can find a lot of uninhabited, ready for rent islands in San Blas. Surfing, strolling, beach shopping, houses made of bamboo and thatched roofs, Kuna women in their colorful traditional attires and native food are the main attractions of these islands.

Through the Rainforests
One day at the San Blas can offer you a great treat for the eyes. Explore the dense rainforests on the nearby mainland part of the Kuna territory and enjoy the natural waterfalls, wildlife and dense tropical fauna. A guide can be of great help, while exploring the area.
 
Water Adventures
Dive into the deep blue Caribbean waters for a thrilling aquatic experience. You can also get rental equipments for diving. You can also try snorkeling which is quite popular in San Blas. Another interesting experience in San Blas is cruising in yachts and fishing using boats.

Eat and Drink
If you are in San Blas or nearby islands, don’t expect any western-style food. You can enjoy meals with locally caught lobsters, crabs, shrimp and octopus. As far as drinking water is concerned, the local people pipe water directly from the streams unfiltered. Tourists may not find it healthy, so better carry water bottles.
Activities for you
Once you reach the island, you feel as if you are in a different world altogether. In the morning, you can hike through the dense forests and fruit trees in the nearby islands that are exceptional for birding. In the afternoon, try snorkeling or simply lay down on the white beaches. Shop for the ‘Molas,’ a famous souvenir sold by the Kuna women.
Visiting the islands is not free of cost. Visitors need to pay a registration fee ranging from $3 – $5. Want to take photographs with the Kunas? They will charge you $1! Moving from one island to the next smoothly in the blue water is a great experience. If lucky, you may have dolphins accompanying you.

Magnetic Man

Liew Thow Lin is known as the “Magnetic Man” of Malaysia, because of his incredible ability to stick metal objects to his body.

Strange Laws!

In Vermont, women must obtain written permission from their husbands to wear false teeth.

Strange Laws

In Florida, unmarried women who parachute on Sundays can be jailed.

Ever heard of parrot flower?

The Parrot Flower!

Baby Names!

Until 1984 Belgians were made to choose their children’s names from a list of 1500 drawn up in the days of Napoleon.

Harisree at Guruvayoor!

“Harisree” was the name of the hotel room where we stayed during our trip to Guruvayoor (the abode of Lord Sree Guruvayurappan). Names of each room had something to do with ‘divinity’. Our friend stayed in the room opposite to ours named ‘Mukundam’. It appeared as a good time pass to me strolling through the corridor reading out all the names..Damodaram, Ambadi, Nandanam and so on…

We reached Gokulam Resorts early morning at 4.00 am. The receptioinst was fast asleep, but woke up to receive us. We were guided to our room ‘Harisree’ . The train journey had tired us so much that we slept till 10 am. In Guruvayoor, 4.00 am is the ‘holy’ time when devotees rush to the temple to get a glimpse of  Lord Guruvayoorappan. And here we were busy sleeping under the thick red satin blanket as if we were deprived of a year long rest.

At 10.00 am, we ringed the receptionist for a cup of coffee. We were ready to gulp the traditional Brahmin coffee, which anyone would expect from a holy land as Guruvayoor. As the coffee arrived,  the entire Brahmin clan vanished all of a sudden  from our brain. It was machine coffee -cold, tasteless and flavourless. The receptionist was so proud handing over the two cups of ‘caffee’ to us as if it were two delicious B&R  icecream scoops.

He did one good thing ofcourse. He guided us to the nearby ‘Ganapathi Bhavan’ restaurant for breakfast and lunch. This we enjoyed very much with the Brahmin clan once again appearing in front of us.

 With nothing much to do, late afternoon, we headed towards Anakotta (Elephant Sanctuary).  A great spot for pilgrims and tourists with around 61 elephants which are offered to the Lord by His devotees. We entered the sanctuary fixing our gaze on each and every elephant (As if we were planning to do some serious research on the animal). Took some photographs and finally returned to Harisree . Late evening I decided to visit the temple for the holy darshan of the Lord. But believe me, waiting to get near the sanctum sanctoram was more difficult than waiting for a newly applied gas connection! I somehow managed to catch a glimpse of the Lord and quickly returned.

Our friend, a typical orthodox christian along with his wife joined us for the dinner. From herbivorous, we had no difficulty in turning carnivorous and relished our non-veg dinner in the holy land.

We were at Guruvayoor to attend a marriage. The next day morning 7.30 am was the muhoortham. Around 200 marriages were to take place in Guruvayoor on that day – a great business loss to 200 auditoriums!! We reached the temple around 7.00 am. Brides of all categories – rich and poor, tall and short, excited and pale were waiting for their turn for the mega event of their life. Some were found praying profusely, as if they were getting ready to jump from the Himalayas!  

 Once our bride and groom finished their ceremony, we moved to a Hall, where a small reception was organised. We had our breakfast and feast over there and finally retired to Harisree.

In the evening, when our friend was about to leave, an old neighbour of ours from Damodaram, slowly came out. A charming old man in his late 70s,  he stopped our friend and started talking. His depth of knowledge surprised us. He spoke about marriage, horoscope, kids, books, foreign universities he visited, Shakespeare, Art of Living, Harley-Davidson and many other things within half an hour. My husband was deeply impressed by this old man, firstly because of his encyclopaediac nature and secondly because he called my husband a handsome man. And that was enough for him for the day!!

Finally, we said goodbye to him and moved back to our room. Late in the evening, when we were waiting for our train to Bangalore, I just wished if I could drink a Brahmins coffee!!

My Lovely Cula!

I dont know since when have I developed an aversion for pets. Dogs, cats, rabbits, parrots…No animals or birds have attracted me so far to the extent that I own it. My friends know it better. Most of them loved their pets so much that they even forgot others’ existence . The sight of a lovely Chihuahua  would make me say ” I feel like brushing it under my slippers” …..eeks hope PETA doesnt hear this.:)

I dont know if I can call it my pet. But, I would love to call my little ‘cula’ my pet. Now dont frown..as i told you i have still not changed my mentality against birds and animals (I would like to see them free rather:)) Cula is my pet plant, my curry leaf plant….lol.

Don’t think that I got the name Cula from a Will Smith movie. Its just the short for curry leaf.

And I dont know since when have I developed a liking for Cula. Last time when I went home, my mom had to force me to take this plant with me. When I came back, my husband planted it in a pot kept in the balcony of my kitchen. Since day 1 I have been nurturing her like anything. Watering her daily, providing her with kitchen manure and what not!. But my Cula is showing no signs of growth But she hasnt dried out either. Every morning even before I brush, I water Cula and in the evening when Im back home, I think about the poor Cula who might have been really thirsty due to the damn weather in Blore nowadays. I spare no time to water her. But yet shes all the same :/

I can tell her anything, she will listen without making a slightest noise. No complaints, no brickbats…I can just be what I am with Cula

But now Im worried about her health… Lets see how it goes…

Cula gets wellwishers!

First, lemme thank all the well wishers who called me up and pasted wishes  for Cula’s speedy growth. Cula will defenitely do well…atleast, thats what I hope for!. Today I plucked 3 to 4 leaves from Culas dried body. She tastes fine. But No, I wont do this again. It pains a lot, you know

I want to see Cula as a fully grown plant  that spreads its aroma as soon as one steps inside my kitchen.  You know something. Cula, once fully grown has great medicinal value. She is a great antidiabetic,  antioxidant and has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective  and anti-hypercholesterolemic properties. Oh My God! 

Cula, once again wishing you all the best