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  • If We Were Having Coffee… 7th July

    If We Were Having Coffee… 7th July

    If we were having coffee, I’d hand you a mug and say, “It’s still warm, don’t wait too long.” The weather’s been all over the place lately. Heavy skies, moody clouds, and that in-between kind of light that makes you want to stay in your pajamas a little longer than necessary. Perfect weather for a long chat and a little introspection.

    If we were having coffee, I’d tell you my to-do list is starting to look like a bad novel. Endless pages, no plot, and the main character (me) is constantly overwhelmed. I keep writing things down, hoping it’ll clear some space in my head, but honestly? It just adds more noise. Some days, I tick off one thing and feel victorious. Other days, I do everything except what’s on the list. And sometimes, I add things I’ve already done just for that satisfying little tick. You’ve done that too, right?

    If we were having coffee, I’d admit that my screen time is ridiculous. I used to watch full movies and binge-watch entire series in one day/night, now I can barely sit through a 40-minute episode. Everything feels like too much. I scroll through Instagram reels with zero context and even less attention span. Some of it is fun, sure. But at the end of it, I feel… cluttered. Mentally overstimulated and emotionally underwhelmed. I’m trying to cut back, trying to swap the mindless with something a little more mindful.

    Which brings me to baking….

    If we were having coffee, I’d offer you a cookie—slightly wonky but warm and fresh. I baked a small batch last evening and it reminded me why I love it so much. The process slows me down. There’s a rhythm to it. Measuring, mixing, waiting. It feels like meditation disguised as dessert. I want to bake more often, and try new recipes too. Not just the usual muffins and cakes, but maybe a tart, or something with lemon zest and …. We’ll see.

    And before you leave, I’d promise to show up here more often. Not with grand ideas or polished posts, but just as I am. With a story, a thought, maybe a question.

    So tell me… if we were having coffee today, what would you tell me?

  • Whispers in the Woods

    Whispers in the Woods

    Today was a relatively free day, so I thought, why not dust off the blog and shake out the cobwebs?

    Writing has quietly slipped into the background lately. Life’s been moving fast, and somehow, the one thing that brings me calm kept getting pushed aside. But it’s always there, nudging me now and then. I miss the days when blogging was part of my rhythm, when sharing a story felt like a conversation with myself.

    So when I came across this Creative Writing Challenge by Tolentino Teaching, I took it as a sign. The task was to use eight verbs… sparkle, dash, plop, jostle, lurk, rush, yank and zap. I added my own twist and wove them into a 55-word story.

    Felt good to write again.

    Fireflies sparkle as dusk falls.

    Kids dash through the woods, laughing.

    A frog plops into the pond.

    Shadows jostle between trees.

    Something seems to lurk nearby.

    They rush ahead, breath quickening.

    One yanks another’s sleeve…. look!

    A sharp zap of wings, an owl takes flight.

    Silence.

    Then giggles.

    Just a grumpy owl.

    Childhood wins again.

  • Whole Again

    Whole Again

    Mira traced the rim of her coffee cup, staring at the rain-streaked window. The café was warm, filled with the comforting hum of quiet conversations, but inside her, there was only silence. A silence that had settled ever since Aarav left.

    She had once believed love made people whole, that relationships were about two halves completing each other. But when Aarav walked away, she realized how dangerous that thought had been. He hadn’t taken a part of her when he left, he had only shattered the illusion that she needed someone else to feel complete.

    “Still lost in thought?” a familiar voice broke through her reverie. Riya, her best friend, slid into the seat across from her.

    Mira smiled faintly. “Just thinking… about how we expect love to fix everything.”

    Riya sighed. “You don’t need someone to fix you, Mira. You were never broken.”

    Mira looked at her friend, the one person who had stood by her even when she was drowning in heartbreak. The one who reminded her, time and again, that love wasn’t just about romantic relationships. It was in friendship, in late-night conversations, in the way her mother still called to check if she had eaten.

    “I think, I believed that love should fill the empty spaces,” Mira admitted.

    Riya shook her head. “Love isn’t about filling gaps. It’s about being whole on your own and still choosing to share yourself with someone.”

    Mira let those words sink in. Maybe love wasn’t meant to complete her, but to add to the person she already was.

    As the rain slowed, she felt a shift inside her—small but significant. She wasn’t waiting to be whole anymore. She already was.

    Linking this to Fiction Monday – 241 – Prompt – WHOLE

    Fiction Monday

  • The Shadow’s Whisper

    The Shadow’s Whisper

    I decided to take up this Creative Writing Challenge shared by Tulika, originally created by Tolentino Teaching. It instantly piqued my interest, nudging me to don my creative hat and rekindle my love for writing flash fiction. The structured challenge, with its specific sentence rules, made the process even more exciting. So, here’s my attempt at writing a thrilling short story within the given constraints.

    Below is the image of the Creative Writing Challenge prompt with all the guidelines—give it a try if you’re up for a creative challenge!

    Here’s a story following the given prompt…

    1. The moonlight shimmered on the restless waves.

    2. A deep sense of dread settled in.

    3. The shadow loomed closer, stretching ominously.

    4. The wind howled fiercely tonight.

    5. Suddenly, a whisper brushed against my ear.

    6. The air was cold like a ghost’s breath.

    7. My fear was a locked door with no key.

    8. Why did I take this path alone?

    9. A figure stepped forward, eyes glowing red.

    10. The last thing I heard was my own scream.

     

  • A Letter to My Future Self

    A Letter to My Future Self

    Dear Future Me,

    First off, congratulations! You made it this far without turning into a complete grump (I hope). If you’re reading this, it means you survived all those plot twists life threw at you… and hopefully, you did so with your humour and a well-stocked stash of cake. So, grab a coffee (I assume that hasn’t changed) and let’s chat.

    How’s life treating you? Have you finally mastered the art of waking up early without setting five alarms? Do you still find joy in books, baking cakes and overanalysing life’s smallest moments for inspiration? I really hope you do because those things make you, well, YOU.

    Let’s do a quick check-in. Have you remained the optimistic, list-making, people-watching, coffee-loving person I know you to be? Or have you turned into one of those people who walks into a room and forgets why they’re there? (Actually, you already do that, so never mind.)

    A Letter to My Future Self

    I hope you still laugh at silly jokes and find joy in little things. Remember how much fun it was to observe people especially during those bus and train journeys and make up imaginary backstories for them? Or how satisfying it felt to cross things off your to-do list, even if you added an item just to check it off? (Yes, I know your tricks.)

    Tell me, has life been kind? Have you continued embracing challenges with curiosity and grace, turning them into stories worth telling? If things got tough, I hope you handled them the way you always have—with resilience, humour and maybe an extra slice of cake (because some things require more than just deep breathing).

    And what about the people in your life? Have you continued making time for those who truly matter? Do your boys still roll their eyes at your life lessons and unsolicited wisdom? Keep annoying them. That’s what love is all about.

    Oh and speaking of the boys, how’s Aaryan doing? Is he still dodging your advice or has he finally realized that moms do know everything? Whatever phase he’s in, just keep being his constant. He’ll always need you, even if he pretends otherwise.

    And what about blogging? Do you still share your musings, reflections and observations, or has life kept you too busy to type them out? I hope you never stopped writing. You always found magic in words and the world could always use more of your storytelling (even if it’s just your rants about mundane things around you).

    Have you turned baking into a business, or are you still collecting recipes, saving them in neatly categorized folders and buying more baking tools than you actually use? (Be honest, the baking dish collection must be getting out of hand by now.)

    Hope you have understood that it’s okay to not have it all figured out. Younger-you used to stress about having a plan for everything, but by now, I hope you’ve embraced the chaos. No one really has life figured out—that’s the fun part. Just when you think you do, life throws you a curveball and you’re back at square one. The key is to roll with it, laugh when you can and trust that things will fall into place.

    Before I wrap this up, let me leave you with a tiny reminder: Don’t sweat the small stuff. Let go of things that aren’t worth your energy. Keep smiling, keep learning and for heaven’s sake, don’t let anyone tell you you’re too old to dream big.

    Take care, future me. You’re doing great. (And if you ever need a little boost, just reread this letter and remind yourself—you’ve always had what it takes.)

    With love and a wink,
    Your slightly younger, slightly wiser self

    Linking this to Dear Her… Letters from Women to Women by Blog-A-Rhythm

    Dear Her... Letters from Women to Women by Blog-A-Rhythm

  • If We Were Having Coffee… 29th January

    If We Were Having Coffee… 29th January

    If we were having coffee, I’d greet you with a warm and cheerful “Hello!” How have you been? I hope everything is going wonderfully your way. It’s so good to have you here in my space—it’s been a while since it was last open, but now it’s up and running again! So, make yourself at home and grab a beverage of your choice—I’m so glad you’re here!

    If we were having coffee, I’d share that my blog has been sitting in a quiet, forgotten corner of the internet for far too long. It’s not like I don’t want to write—I do. But every time I sit down to type, my brain decides to stage a protest. Words refuse to flow and I find myself staring at the blinking cursor, feeling utterly uninspired. And so, I close my laptop and move on to something else. I work, I laze around, I scroll through endless reels (more on that later!), but the guilt of not writing lingers. It nags at me, like a to-do list item I keep ignoring. What is it, really? Writer’s block? A phase? Or am I simply out of the habit? Whatever it is, I knew I had to break the cycle.

    Thankfully, a fellow blogger friend, Tulika gave me the nudge I needed and here I am, finally tapping away at my keyboard. Sometimes, a little push is all it takes, right?

    If we were having coffee, I’d also tell you that my binge-watching skills are on a decline. I used to take pride in finishing an entire series in one sitting, but now? It takes me a week, sometimes more! Is my attention span shrinking? Maybe, just maybe, reels are to blame. Those quick, dopamine-packed clips have reprogrammed my brain to consume content in bite-sized bursts.

    That being said, I finally managed to watch Paatal Lok Season 3 after seeing countless reels featuring short clips from it—watched it all in about 4-5 days, and it’s an absolute masterpiece! Jaideep Ahlawat is just phenomenal in it—what a class actor! His expressions, body language, and the way he brings the character to life are just incredible. I was heartbroken when a young cop died (no spoilers, don’t worry!). I’ve also just started Squid Game Season 2, and it’s already got me hooked! The intensity and the stakes are even higher this time. Have you watched it yet?

    If we were having coffee, I’d share how I’m feeling a tiny bit victorious today because I’ve started writing again. It’s a start and I truly hope I can keep going. There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing your words take shape on a screen, don’t you think? It’s like stretching muscles you haven’t used in a while—slightly stiff at first but oh-so-rewarding once you find your flow. I’ve missed this feeling, the quiet joy of putting thoughts into words, of capturing fleeting ideas before they disappear into the abyss of everyday life.

    If we were having coffee, what would you share with me? I’m all ears!

    And before we part ways, let me make a little promise—to show up here more often, to keep this space alive and to never let the words stay locked up for too long.

     

  • Gowns of Romance: Elevate Your Date Night Style

    Gowns of Romance: Elevate Your Date Night Style

    Picture this: a moonlit evening, a candlelit table set for two, and you, radiant in the perfect gown. In the realm of romance, every detail matters, and your choice of attire sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. A beautifully crafted gown isn’t just fabric and thread; it’s a conduit for elegance, confidence, and allure—a symbol of the magic that awaits. Whether you’re indulging in a candlelit dinner at home, strolling hand in hand along the beach, or stepping into the enchanting ambiance of a fine restaurant, the right gown elevates the moment, transforming you into the epitome of grace and sophistication. Join us as we curate six enchanting styles of gowns, each poised to captivate your date’s attention and make you feel like the belle of the ball. From timeless classics to whimsical delights, let’s explore the art of romance, one gown at a time.

    The Classic Little Black Dress (LBD)

    Imagine yourself effortlessly chic in the timeless allure of a Little Black Dress (LBD). It’s that fail-safe choice that never fails to impress. With a form-fitting silhouette accentuating your curves just right, delicate lace details add a hint of allure. Whether you’re dining at a fancy restaurant or taking a moonlit stroll, this versatile piece adapts flawlessly to any setting. Pair it with your favorite statement jewelry and those strappy heels that make you feel unstoppable. It’s not just a dress; it’s confidence, elegance, and a touch of mystery all wrapped in one.

    The Elegant Evening Gown

    Indulge in a touch of glamour with an elegant evening gown for women that whispers luxury with every step. Envision yourself in sumptuous fabrics like silk or satin, draped in sophistication from head to toe. Sparkling sequins or intricate embroidery catch the light, ensuring all eyes are on you as you make your grand entrance. Style it simply with sleek hair and minimal jewelry, allowing the gown to steal the spotlight. This isn’t just a dress; it’s a statement—a declaration of your undeniable grace and charm.

    The Romantic Floral Maxi Dress

    Immerse yourself in the whimsical charm of a romantic floral maxi dress, tailor-made for sunset strolls and beachside rendezvous. Picture soft pastel hues and delicate blooms dancing around you, creating an aura of effortless romance. The gentle breeze plays with the flowing fabric as you revel in the magic of the moment. Opt for an off-the-shoulder design to showcase your natural beauty, paired with carefree accessories like a floppy hat and woven tote bag. It’s more than just a dress; it’s a celebration of love, nature, and the beauty of simplicity.

    The Sophisticated Mermaid Gown

    Make a statement in a sophisticated mermaid gown that hugs your curves in all the right places, exuding confidence and allure with every step. Envision yourself in rich jewel tones, commanding attention with every swish of the dramatic skirt. The fitted bodice accentuates your silhouette, while the flared skirt adds a touch of drama to your ensemble. Complete the look with statement earrings and a sleek updo, embodying elegance and sophistication from head to toe. This isn’t just a dress; it’s a masterpiece—a reflection of your undeniable grace and poise.

    The Bohemian Lace Gown

    Channel your inner free spirit with bohemian lace gowns that radiates charm and enchantment wherever you go. Imagine intricate lace detailing against soft, earthy tones, creating a look that’s as whimsical as it is romantic. Picture yourself with loose waves cascading down your shoulders, adorned with a flower crown that captures the essence of natural beauty. This isn’t just a dress; it’s a journey—a celebration of love, freedom, and the magic of the moment.

    The Glamorous Sequin Gown

    Step into the spotlight with a glamorous sequin gown that dazzles and delights, reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour at its finest. Picture yourself bathed in shimmering sequins, commanding attention with every glimmer and sparkle. Opt for classic colors like gold or silver, exuding timeless elegance and sophistication. Complete the look with bold red lips and statement jewelry, embodying the epitome of glamour and style. This isn’t just a dress; it’s a showstopper—an ode to your undeniable presence and star-worthy allure.

    No matter which gown speaks to your heart, remember this: Confidence is your best accessory. So slip into your chosen ensemble, wear it with pride, and let your inner radiance shine bright. With each step, you’re not just wearing a dress; you’re embracing a moment—a memory in the making. So go ahead, seize the night, and let love be your guiding light.

  • Lost in Pages

    Lost in Pages

    I have been an avid reader for as long as I can remember.

    Since childhood, books have been my constant companions. I’ve cherished the thrill of solving mysteries with Nancy Drew or getting lost in the romance of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy or laughing out loud with Jeeves and Bertie.  Reading was more than a hobby; it was a sanctuary where I could escape into exciting worlds, learn, explore, and find inspiration.

    As the years passed, my love affair with books deepened into a more intense and passionate connection. I read a lot. I read everything—thrillers, romance, humor, memoirs/biographies, self-help, YA, sci-fi, horror, historical fiction, to name a few.

    I read everywhere… a few pages here, a few pages there—on a bus, on a train, in a waiting area, in a queue, in bed, while eating alone, and sometimes even in the loo. There were days (I wish I had more such days!) when I read from morn to night and left the bed just for bare necessities.

    I read all the time and loved it.

    I participated in numerous book reading challenges over the years and truly loved how they made me read and explore out of my comfort zone.

    But that was a long time ago.

    Things have changed.

    In the whirlwind of the pandemic, my reading habit took a backseat. Initially, the chaos of adjusting to work from home, learning new skills, and managing household chores (ok, the last part not so much, as my boys did most of that) left little room for my beloved books.

    I thought, “Once things settle, I’ll have plenty of time to read.” Yet, that moment never arrived. Reading was always on my mind, but I never got the time. It was especially frustrating because books are, well, my thing.

    Despite friends reassuring me that it was just a phase, I found myself trapped. I bought books and added titles to my Goodreads list, hoping to reignite the flame.

    But the non-reading phase persisted.

    Now, after months of attempting to revive my reading habit, I find myself battling against distractions like my phone, post-work fatigue, and a weakened attention span.

    Even with a book open in front of me, my focus fades after a chapter or two.

    But I’m determined to change that. I’m revisiting the strategies I laid out in 2020 to read more:

    1. Read what I love

    Thrillers and humor are my go-to genres, and I’ll embrace them wholeheartedly.

    2. Follow the cat rule

    Like a cat carrying her kittens, I’ll carry my Kindle or book wherever I go.

    3. Prioritize reading

    I’ll make reading a non-negotiable part of my daily routine.

    4. Reading sprints

    When motivation wanes, I’ll set a timer for 15 minutes, read, take a short break, and repeat. These sprints should help me regain my reading focus.

    Yes, it’s time to rekindle the joy I once found in books and make reading an integral part of my life again.

    In the past, I was truly lost in the pages, immersed in worlds of mystery, romance, laughter… Today, as I navigate the distractions and challenges, I am determined to rediscover that sense of being ‘lost in pages.’ With each word, I am forging a path back to the joy I once knew, and in the future, I envision a story where every chapter is an adventure, and the journey is once again defined by being utterly and blissfully lost in the pages.

    This post is part of the Bookish League blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile