For Old Times Sake

Amit and Arpita sat across from each other, sipping their coffee in comfortable silence. It had been years since they'd last met, but the familiarity was still there. They'd often reminisced about that fateful day in school when Amit, dared by his friends, had proposed to Arpita, only to confess it was a prank. Despite the initial heartbreak, their friendship had endured.

As they caught up on each other's lives, Amit shared stories about his children, and Arpita talked about her family. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and they found themselves lost in the past, reliving memories of their school days. But as the afternoon wore on, their talk turned to the present. Amit's thoughts drifted back to that prank, and he couldn't help but wonder how life would have turned out if he'd been sincere in his proposal. Would they be together now? Would they have built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure?

Arpita, sensing his introspection, reached out and gently touched his hand. "Hey, what's on your mind?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with concern.

Amit smiled wistfully. "Just thinking about that prank I pulled on you back in school. I've always regretted it, Arpita." Arpita's expression softened. "I know, Amit. I've forgiven you long ago. But I have to ask...what made you think of it now?" Amit's gaze locked onto hers, his eyes burning with intensity. "I guess I just can't help but wonder...what if? What if I'd been sincere? What if we'd taken a chance on each other?" Arpita's cheeks flushed, and she looked away, her voice barely above a whisper. "I've wondered that too, Amit." As they sat there, the air thick with unspoken emotions, Amit reached out and took Arpita's hand in his. "I'm so sorry, Arpita. Sorry for the pain I caused you, sorry for not being brave enough to take a chance on us."

Arpita's eyes met his, and she smiled softly. "You don't have to apologize, Amit. We were young, and we didn't know any better. But I do have to say...I'm glad we're friends now."

Amit's fingers intertwined with hers, his touch sending shivers down her spine. As they walked out of the coffee shop, hand in hand, they shared a poignant glance. They knew they couldn't be together, not in the classical sense. But they also knew that their emotional bond was undeniable. Amit turned to Arpita and smiled. "You know, I never thought I'd say this, but I'm glad I took that dare all those years ago." Arpita's eyes sparkled. As they stood there, Arpita reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair behind his ear. "You deserve to be happy, Amit," she said softly. "You should find someone, fall in love again."

Amit's eyes locked onto hers, his gaze burning with intensity. "I've been thinking about that, Arpita. But it's hard to find someone who understands me like you do." Arpita's expression softened, and she took his hand in hers. "That's because you're looking for someone to fill a void, Amit. You need someone to share your life with, to laugh and cry with." As they talked, their hands remained entwined, a gentle reminder of the connection they shared. "I know, Arpita. You're right. I just feel like I've been given a second chance, and I don't want to waste it."

 Arpita's eyes sparkled with tears. "You won't, Amit. I promise. You'll find someone amazing, someone who loves you for who you are." Amit's voice dropped to a whisper. "What if I've already found her, Arpita?" Arpita's gaze faltered, and she looked away, her cheeks flushing. "Amit, don't say that. We can't...we can't go down that path." Amit's fingers intertwined with hers, his touch sending shivers down her spine. "I know, Arpita. I'm sorry. It's just...being with you feels like home." Arpita's eyes met his, and for a moment, they just stared at each other, the air thick with unspoken emotions. Finally, Arpita broke the silence. "Amit, we can't be together, but we can still be friends. We can still support each other." Amit nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "I'd like that, Arpita."

As they parted ways, Amit leaned in and kissed Arpita's forehead, his lips lingering near her head and he muttered a small prayer for her happiness.  Then he moved to the passenger side of her car and opened the door for her.  Arpita blew a kiss, and his heart fluttered as her car sped away.

A Roaring Adventure in Uttarakhand, India : 5 Nights, 6 Days of Madness

Ah, Uttarakhand—a land where the mountains whisper secrets, the jungles roar (but only if you listen carefully), and the roads twist more than your emotions during a soap opera. This 5-night, 6-day escapade was an absolute riot, packed with laughter, adrenaline, and just enough drama to make a Bollywood movie jealous.

Nainital: Picture this: the shimmering Naini Lake, surrounded by hills that look like they’re straight out of a postcard. For two glorious nights, I soaked in the beauty of this lakeside paradise. There were boat rides, cheesy maggi (because what's a hill station without it?), and some very questionable paddle boating skills. Oh, and the mall road? Let’s just say I walked enough to earn the guilt-free consumption of three servings of hot gulab jamuns. But the real MVP? The view from Snow View Point. Imagine standing there, the cool wind teasing your hair, the mountains flaunting their snowy caps, and you, pretending to be in a music video. Classic.

Corbett: The next stop was Corbett, where my inner Mowgli came alive. The jungle safari was the highlight. As the jeep rattled through the wilderness, the guide regaled us with stories of tigers and other wildlife. Did I see a tiger? Well, no, I just missed it as it rushed away from us!! But I heard the majestic roar echo through the trees, which is basically the same, right? (Right?!) I also saw fresh pug marks and a chill ran down my spine just knowing a tiger has passed by. Still, the jungle didn’t disappoint. There were varieties of deer prancing around like they owned the place, mischievous monkeys plotting their next heist, and a peacock doing the cha-cha for its mates. Nature, man—it’s wild. Literally.

Mussoorie: Finally, the queen of hills: Mussoorie. It’s like stepping into a picture-perfect world where the air smells of pine and possibility. But the real showstopper? A New Year’s party at Base Camp George Everest. Picture bonfires crackling, fairy lights twinkling, and everyone dancing like nobody’s judging. There was a live band, some questionable karaoke (not mine, obviously), and enough hot chocolate to fuel a mountain expedition. As the clock struck midnight, the music accelerated and there was love in the air and champagne popped!!!

As the trip wrapped up, I looked back at a week filled with laughter, awe-inspiring views, and a new appreciation for tiger roars. Uttarakhand isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. One that leaves you with stories to tell, memories to treasure, and a serious craving for roadside parathas.

Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. But maybe next time, I’ll convince the tiger to make an appearance. Stay tuned!

My Love Affair with My Job: A Tale of Professional Romance and Humor

Relationships come in many forms, but none is quite as unique as the one we share with our jobs. Be it the first job - or one of the many jobs thereafter. Like any good romance, it has its highs, lows, and moments that make us laugh out loud. Here’s a peek into my love affair with my career, filled with romantic flourishes and humorous twists. 

The Courtship: Just like meeting a potential life partner, the beginning was all about the chase. I remember our first meeting—the interview. Butterflies in my stomach, hands slightly clammy, I dressed up in my best outfit, hoping to make a great impression. It was like a first date, filled with nerves and excitement. I even found myself saying, “I think we have a real connection here.”

The Honeymoon Phase: Those first few months were pure bliss. Everything was new and exciting. I was eager to impress, arriving early, staying late, and always with a smile on my face. We were inseparable; I spoke about my job to anyone who would listen, just like a love-struck individual can’t stop talking about their new partner. Even the coffee tasted better!

Settling into Routine: Like any relationship, the initial excitement began to mellow into a comfortable routine. I knew what to expect each day, and while the passion wasn’t as fiery, there was a deepening respect and understanding. I started wearing my “comfortable” work clothes, just like switching from date-night outfits to cozy pajamas.

The First Fight: No relationship is without its conflicts. Our first disagreement came when I felt overwhelmed with a project’s demands. It was as if my job was asking, “Why don’t you understand me?” There were late nights and a few tears, but we made up, promising to communicate better. I might have even said, “It’s not you, it’s me,” at one point.

Romantic Gestures: There are moments when my job surprises me with thoughtful gestures. Like the time I got an unexpected bonus—equivalent to a surprise bouquet of roses. Or when my boss acknowledged my hard work in front of everyone—it felt like receiving a love letter. These moments reignite the spark and remind me why I fell in love with my career in the first place.

Growing Together: Over time, I’ve realized that, much like with a life partner, growing together is key. My job and I have learned to adapt, evolve, and support each other’s growth. I’ve taken on new roles, and my responsibilities have expanded, keeping the relationship dynamic and fulfilling.

The Commitment: At the end of the day, my relationship with my job is built on commitment, much like a marriage. Through thick and thin, late nights and early mornings, we stick together. And just like in any good relationship, we celebrate the victories, big and small, and face the challenges head-on.

So here’s to my professional romance—filled with passion, laughter, and a commitment that keeps us going. And just like any great love story, it’s the journey, with all its ups and downs, that makes it truly worthwhile.

Between Ambition and Lullabies: A Mother’s Balancing Act

 

Three-year-old Nathan was bawling—again. His little face scrunched up, tears streaming down his cheeks as he watched his mom cradle his baby brother, Jonas. “Up! Mama, up!” he demanded, arms outstretched. His mother sighed, her body aching from exhaustion but managed a tired smile. She lifted him onto her hip, balancing both boys like a circus act.

It had been a long day—one of many. The sleepless nights had blurred into endless days of changing diapers, soothing cries, and trying to catch even a moment to herself. But her heart, despite the weariness, found strength in the love she had for her sons.

Nathan adored Jonas; he truly did. He’d pat his baby brother’s head with chubby fingers and bring him toys—until he realized that Mom was holding Jonas again. Then the protests would start. One particularly exhausting afternoon, Nathan decided to "solve" the problem. In his toddler wisdom, he tied a small toy truck to Jonas’s onesie, his face lighting up with anticipation, hoping it would make Mom laugh—and it did! Her tired laughter bubbled up, but it was directed at Jonas. Nathan’s little heart sank; he had wanted that laugh for himself. His lower lip quivered, and he tugged at her skirt, needing reassurance.

Without a word, she knelt down, drawing Nathan close, her arms wrapping around both boys. “I see you, my love,” she whispered gently into his hair, pressing a soft kiss to his temple. “Mama always sees you.”

One evening, as her husband walked in after a long day at work, he found her slumped in the rocking chair, eyes half-closed, cradling a dozing Jonas while Nathan curled at her feet, playing quietly with his toy cars. Silently, he took Jonas from her arms, pressing a soft kiss on her forehead. “You rest tonight,” he murmured, his voice steady and reassuring. “I’ve got Jonas.”

Relieved but too tired to say much, she smiled gratefully, her heart full as she watched her husband gently rock their youngest son. For the first time that day, she felt like she could breathe again. She knew she wasn’t alone.

Nathan, meanwhile, wasn’t done with his mischief. One evening, in a burst of excitement, he hid under the laundry basket and popped out with a loud “Boo!” just as she was changing Jonas. The surprise made Jonas giggle, but Mom nearly dropped the baby in shock. “Oh, Nathan!” she gasped, exasperated but unable to hold back a grin. Nathan’s eyes sparkled, finally earning the reaction he’d been looking for.

Though her body was weary, her heart swelled with love as she watched Nathan’s wide smile. “You’re my little rascals,” she whispered, pulling both boys into a squishy hug. In that embrace, the tiredness faded away, replaced by a warm glow in her chest. Nathan nestled against her, content, finally satisfied in the arms of the woman who loved him more than anything in the world.

And though each day came with new challenges, her heart found strength again and again in these small moments—moments when love outweighed the exhaustion, when their laughter drowned out her fatigue.

At night, after the boys were finally asleep, she would often sit on the edge of the bed, sipping tea as her husband wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “You’re amazing,” he’d say softly. “I don’t know how you do it.”

She’d lean into him, feeling the weight of the day slowly lift. “I don’t either,” she’d chuckle. But deep down, she knew. It was because every moment with Nathan and Jonas, every smile, every hug—it was all worth it.

The Tight Rope Walk - Finding Love

Diana, now in her late forties, found herself stepping into a new chapter of life. After a long and tumultuous 28-year marriage, she made the brave decision to end it when she finally felt financially independent.

Though she had been married for so long, Diana had always craved a deeper, more genuine kind of love—something she never quite found with her ex-husband. They were childhood sweethearts who had grown into adults with different values and dreams. While family and friends adored them both, they had little in common. The spark that had once connected them was long gone. 

To break the monotony of her newfound single life, Diana decided to give online dating a try. She met a series of men who claimed to be single but were clearly just looking for some fun. She quickly learned to brush these encounters aside, knowing that what she wanted was something real. Then, one day, she met someone different—a man who seemed to check all the boxes on her list. He was kind, genuine, and fun to be around. However, he was also a decade younger than her, which gave her pause. Could she really open her heart to someone so much younger?

Despite her doubts, Diana found herself enjoying his company immensely. He was easygoing and sincere; with him, she could go to a movie and actually enjoy it, or have a simple lunch or dinner without any pretense. There were no grand gestures or showiness—just a refreshing simplicity that made her feel at ease. As they spent more time together, Diana felt a connection growing—a band forming around her heart.

The man, however, still hoped to find the woman of his dreams. He had marriage on his mind, but he cherished the friendship that was blossoming between them. One day, he proposed an idea to Diana: a friendship that would last a lifetime, one that would bridge the gap until he found his life partner. No dramas, no fuss—just companionship and support.

Diana smiled at his sincerity. It wasn’t what she had initially been searching for, but maybe it was what she needed—a heartfelt connection, free from the pressure of labels and expectations. She agreed to his proposal, content in knowing that for now, they could simply be two souls finding solace in each other’s company. And as they walked this path together, Diana realized that sometimes, the love you crave doesn’t always come in the form you expect. Sometimes, it comes softly, in the form of a deep and meaningful friendship.

And more importantly - Oscar Wilde said that to Love Oneself Is the Beginning of a Lifelong Romance

Finding Love and Staying Loved

Once upon a time, in a small, quaint village nestled among rolling hills, there lived an elderly woman named Miriam. Miriam had devoted her entire life to raising her only child, a son named Jacob. From the moment Jacob was born, he was the center of her world. Miriam worked tirelessly to provide for him, ensuring he had everything he needed and more. Her love for him was boundless, and their bond was unbreakable.

As Jacob grew, he flourished into a kind and handsome young man. Miriam's heart swelled with pride and joy as she watched him achieve his dreams and become the man she always knew he could be. She dreamed of the day when Jacob would marry and they would live together as a big, happy family. Her dream seemed to come true when Jacob fell in love with a beautiful woman named Emily. They married in a grand ceremony, and soon after, a precious grandson, Ethan, was born. 

For a short time, Miriam's life was complete. She spent her days doting on her grandson, sharing stories and teaching him the ways of the world. She believed her dreams had come to fruition. However, her joy was short-lived. Emily, Jacob's wife, did not accept Miriam as part of their family. She felt threatened by Miriam's presence and sought to distance Jacob and Ethan from her.

Miriam's heart ached as she was slowly pushed out of their lives. She tried to win Emily over with kindness, but her efforts were in vain. The day came when Jacob, torn between his love for his mother and his desire to keep peace in his home, made the difficult decision to ask Miriam to live apart from them. Miriam's world crumbled as she packed her belongings and left the home filled with the laughter and love of her grandson.

In her small, quiet cottage on the outskirts of the village, Miriam found herself alone. The once vibrant and warm house now felt cold and empty. She missed the sound of Ethan's laughter, the feel of his tiny hand in hers, and the sight of Jacob's smiling face. She spent her days in a haze of sorrow, her heart heavy with grief.

Yet, amidst the loneliness, Miriam knew she needed to find a way to carry on. She began to explore new hobbies, finding solace in the garden she tended with care. She planted flowers that burst into brilliant colors, each bloom a small reminder of the beauty that still existed in the world. She joined a local knitting circle, where she met other women who shared their stories and became her friends. They laughed together, knitted together, and slowly, the emptiness in her heart began to fill. 

Jacob never forgot his mother. He visited her as often as he could, bringing Ethan along whenever possible. These visits were bittersweet for Miriam, a reminder of what she had lost and what she still cherished. She held onto these moments, treasuring each hug and kiss from her grandson.

One day, as Miriam sat in her garden, Ethan ran to her with a drawing he had made. It was a picture of their family, with Miriam right in the center. Tears filled her eyes as she realized that, despite the distance and the pain, she was still a vital part of their lives. Jacob knelt beside her and whispered, "I love you, Mom. You'll always be my family."

Miriam knew her dreams of living as a big family had changed, but she found peace in knowing that love could bridge the distance. She embraced the new life she had built, filled with flowers, friends, and the occasional visit from her beloved son and grandson. Though her heart still ached, it also held a quiet strength, a testament to the enduring power of a mother's love.

Enchanting Bali Escapade: A Journey to Tropical Serenity

Embarking on a solo journey to Bali wasn't just a vacation; it was an odyssey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and boundless exploration. As a solo traveler, every moment became an opportunity to delve into the intricacies of this enchanting island. From the vibrant markets of Ubud to the serene beaches of Nusa Penida, each location unfolded its unique story.

Solo travel, contrary to popular belief, is not about solitude; it's a gateway to forging connections that transcend borders. In Bali, I found myself seamlessly woven into the vibrant tapestry of diverse cultures. Engaging with locals and in their daily rituals and celebrations opened my eyes to the richness of Balinese traditions, a depth of understanding I might have missed in a group setting. Talking to global tourists , battling challenges at the ATMs created a feeling of bonding in a new country. 

Navigating the island solo also meant navigating the labyrinth of self-discovery. The quiet moments spent in contemplation amidst the terraced rice fields or during a sunrise view from my hotel room were revelations that resonated deep within. Solo travel is a dialogue with oneself, a chance to confront fears, embrace uncertainties, and emerge stronger.

The beauty of traveling alone lies in the serendipity of human connections. Whether sharing stories with fellow travelers at a cozy warung (roadside stalls) or joining a spontaneous beach bonfire, I discovered the magic of instant friendships. Solo travel is a catalyst for building connections that transcend the transient nature of a holiday, leaving indelible marks on the journey.

Moreover, the autonomy of solo travel fueled a hunger for knowledge. My carefully planned itinerary gave me ample opportunities to savor each moment that i enjoyed and discard another the moment I realized i did not like it.  I am not a trekker and I skipped those that involved steep steps. This meant I got more time to be in spots I loved to be.  Every encounter became an opportunity to expand my cultural lexicon, transforming the trip into an educational odyssey.

The trip transcended beyond a mere holiday; it was a transformative experience. The freedom to explore, connect, and learn not only enriched my understanding of this tropical paradise but also left an indelible imprint on my own journey of self-discovery.

My Itinerary included 3 days in Denpasar, 2 nights in Kuta and 1 night in Ubud. Having experienced this,  I highly recommend 3 nights in Kuta (highly recommend where i stayed... The Kana) and 3 nights in Ubud (Seres Spring Spa).  Both places are a delight. 30 minutes away from main market areas. Best breakfast and easy accessibility of ATMs and GRAB (that's an app which is equivalent to our Uber and swiggy).  I would slip Denpasar for stay and suggest you visit one of the beaches for sunset and lovely vibes. I was at Teba Cafe, their sea food was world class. All links shared below. 

What not to do;

1. Choosing Inna Bali Heritage Hotel for stay... it's really ancient Heritage structure... please avoid 

2. Don't forget an umbrella...helpful in heat as well as rain. Bali is hot throughout the year.. 

3. Don't pack any fancy stuff...shorts n cotton tops

.and BIG tube of Sunscreen is all that you need

4. Take little Indian food like Theplas... you may crave for it. 

Some pictures.....