10 Lies most men tell

God, don't we love these surveys! The most recent one has it that men lie more than women, thus affirming what we always knew but didn't have a survey to back up.

While lies come in all sizes and shades, here are the more common fibs that the male of the species is more inclined to dish out--- sometimes to get out of a fix, oftentimes to keep his partner happy, and at other times because it's ever so convenient and hassle-free! Do, please, add your own to this list, and let's have fun making this list as long as his nose is likely to grow if and when caught!

1. "I wasn't checking her out.' They will deny till they turn blue in the face that they were checking out another woman while you were very much in the vicinity. They'll protest how until you accused them, they didn't even register the presence of the sexy, curvaceous woman in the mall, or airport, or wherever it is such women frequent.

2. "I have not had a smoke/I have drastically cut down on cigarettes.' When you get on their case and nag them about smoking, or have caught them almost red and nicotine-handed, they insist the smoke you smell from their hair, clothes, breath, or surroundings are from some far away source; it's certainly not them.

3. 'It's only you I fantasize about.' When fantasizing about someone in their dreamy moments, or when they seek self-pleasure, it's always with you in his mind, or so they'll have you believe. How can, they say, you even think they could have anyone else on their mind. Who are they kidding? Let's face it. Partners are their reality; not fantasy.

4. 'I was way too qualified for that organisation, anyway.' The pink slip he got had nothing to do with his position being made redundant. He was just way too good for them!

5. 'With the GPS, I own the road.' Fact is even with these technology playthings, many men are perfectly lost. Except that his male pride will never let him admit that.

6. 'I can't stay without you more than a day.' What lies! The fact is no sooner you are gone than the party begins, or at least the planning for one does.

7. 'I wasn't sleeping. I was thinking.' They don't like being caught napping while at work or watching a movie, so you have to know it's just their way of putting on their thinking caps.

8. 'I did not forget.' If something slips from their mind like sending that courier or asking the plumber to inspect that leaking tap, it's only because something more important came up, and there were other pressing matters that had to be attended to. Forgetfulness and them? Naah!

9. 'We don't think about that all the time.' This one is a half-lie. What they don't tell you is that they are thinking about it most of the time. In between work happens.

10. 'I haven't lost hair; I have gained face!' How can his male ego deal with hair loss? It's a blow to his vanity. So anything, really, to cling on to his youth and erstwhile crowning glory.

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Barley water, the best beverage

We are in the health-conscious era. So obsessed we are about our health and fitness that we don't mind reading even disputed theories about health benefits for all we want is to somehow be fit and fine.

Slowly, people are waking up to the fact that home remedies are any day better compared to chemical products. So here's something that has existed since our ancestor's times, but we have given it a royal ignore. Wonder what it is? Well, it's the barley seeds. The moment you say barley, the first thing that comes to your mind is beer. But have you ever wondered how healthy barley itself is? The best thing is the seeds are available throughout the year and is the cheapest among all cereals. Here are ways in which you can consume barley.

Yes, you have heard that before. Drinking beer has always made you run to the loo a little more frequently than you generally do. Drinking barley water, on the other hand, also induces increased urination which means it flushes out the toxins in the body.

Barley water is hence the best medicine when you have a Urinary Tract Infection. Boil a table spoon of barley seeds in a litre of water. Bring down the quantity to half and keep consuming barley water through out the day.

Barley water also brings down the heat content in the body. In some countries, people consume barley rice during summer for its cooling properties.

- It also works as an excellent substitute to aerated drinks to quench your thirst.
- Barley water also helps reduce burning sensation in the stomach as it's a cooling agent
- Barley water also prevents urine from stinking. This works in case of pregnant women or patients who are on hormone tablets.
- Regular consumption of barley water cleanses your kidney and keeps it free of toxins.
- If you don't enjoy the bland taste, then you could add a dash of lemon to the drink

A study conducted by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has shown that the fiber that comes from barley water lowers cholesterol. Hence, this is a must-have drink for fitness freaks.

The insoluble fiber is also known to help women prevent formation of gallstones. Barley water also cuts risk of Type-2 diabetes. The antioxidants in barley prevents cancerous growths. Consume a glass of hot barley water everyday for better digestion and fight constipation or feeling of nausea.

Regular consumption of barley water has shown to help weight loss too.

With its many benefits, barley water is definitely the best beverage. The next time you reach for a bottle of aerated drink, you know what's more healthier.

reshmi.archennaitimes@gmail.com

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Think twice before getting a tattoo

Body art or tattoo is a popular trend almost everyone across the world. The colourful and lovely body tattoos and art are believed to add a sense of appeal and a new look to one's personality.

In fact tattoos and body art has turned into a fashion statement. But are they safe?

Dr. Anup Dhir, senior cosmetic surgeon at Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, says, "There are severe repercussions related to tattoo and body art, which you should be aware of before getting inked. Tattoos and piercings break the skin, which can leave you vulnerable to skin infections, STIs, and HIV. It can put you at risk for viruses that are spread through blood, like Hepatitis C, B, or HIV. While some have severe skin reaction through tattoo ink, others may experience allergic reaction." This is because certain coloured inks often contain lead, cadmium, chromium, nickel, titanium and other heavy metals. Especially red, green, yellow and blue dyes cause skin allergy, infections & granulomas.

On the other hand piercing can cause nerve damage, meaning that you may experience numbness or loss of feeling near the piercing. It can also lead to permanent scarring or keloids, which are growths of scar tissue that rise up from the surface of skin. Also, the toxic ink used in tattoos could seep into the body and increase the risk of cancer.

There are some specific organs which must be avoided for tattoo and piercing such as breasts nipples, genital areas and face. Dr Dhir informs, "Tattoos are one the most difficult plastic surgical problems to treat. Most tattoos leave a faint ghost of the image after removal, and older tattoos are more difficult than newer ones to remove. Piercings can leave scars including difficult-to-treat keloids and hypertrophic scars."

Though there are techniques of laser, dermabrasion and skin grafting available to eliminate unwanted tattoo, they often costs a bomb.

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Things you don't find in parenting books

First-time mother and author, Trupti Vyas lists a few essentials parenting books skip out on

The minute most women discover that they are pregnant; they go into an overdrive of trying to acquire as much information as possible on what to do in the months ahead. When Trupti Vyas, a 34-year-old firsttime mother found out she was expecting, she did the same, and hit bookstores with a vengeance. "I was eager to know what I was supposed to do. Almost all the books I picked up told me about dieting, what to eat, what not to eat, how to take care of myself medically, be positive in my attitude, etc. None however, told me how to mentally and emotionally prepare myself for this monumental experience in my life. Nothing on how to keep happy with a hundred doubts and insecurities about being able to handle motherhood." After giving birth, Trupti, a compliance officer with an investment firm, wrote a book Journey of 9ine months.

From Womanhood to Motherhood, based on her personal experience and the information she gathered on how to emotionally and mentally be ready for motherhood. Here are a few key points she notes, that can come handy when you're done reading What To Expect When You're Expecting—

Thought process
We no longer live in a world where babies just happen. It's usually a very planned event, and according to studies, a planned baby is always more welcome than an unplanned preg nancy. Whatever the case may be, it's always good to be prepared for parenthood from the get go. Our lives these days are filled with stress, anxiety and hectic routines. So a new baby that's going to demand a lot of time and attention needs careful evaluation. Nothing is worse than being an irresponsible parent. Plan for it, physically and mentally.

The child's health to a great extent depends on the health of its parents before conception. The man's health is just as important as the woman's. Hence if you're planning for a baby, ensure you both avoid smoking, drinking, eat healthy and exercise at least six months prior to conception.

Right influences
With the internet, all sorts of information is just a click away. While a lot of literature is available on pregnancy, it needn't all necessarily be helpful. One should pick up books that give information on basic dos and don'ts during pregnancy. But people seem to have a strange obsession on scouting for information on child diseases, fatalities during child birth and other health problems. While these are extremely important to know, dwelling on them and preparing for the worst when it hasn't even happened, takes an emotional toll on the mind. By thinking of negative events, we send negative vibrations to the mind and that's counter productive. On the other hand, try reading literature that's encouraging, positive and that helps you look forward to the arrival of your baby with joy and excitement.

Mental makeup
We are all aware about what is going on in our conscious mind but what we attract in our lives, the successes we are likely to achieve, the fulfillment of our dreams, desire, wishes, everything is driven by what is going on in our subconscious minds. The thoughts in our subconscious mind get transferred to the child in the womb. In other words, it influence how the baby is going to be, that is, happy, contended, cranky, sad, moody, loner, friendly, etc. Hence feeding the right emotion to your subconscious mind is crucial for the temperament of your unborn child. It's a myth that one should turn into a couch potato after testing positive. Getting into a pampering mode is going to make you weak. Keep yourself busy with things you enjoy doing such as reading, exercising. An idle mind is a direct invitation for negative thoughts like depression, nervousness and unnecessary tensions.

Stay positive
You can be happy if you decide to. It's that simple. Your mental state of happiness will help you deal with your pregnancy with ease. Think of it this way, countless women do such a wonderful job at raising children. Why won't you be able to do it? Soak in and enjoy all the attention you get at work and at home, especially by your partner. The key here is to celebrate yourself and your body, and this special time in your life. Accept your whole being completely by being aware about what's going on within you. To share a healthy loving relationship with your child, it's essential that you feel in love with yourself. Pregnancy is a time when you are preparing for a lot of things. Don't forget to focus on yourself as well so that you can pass that on to the baby. Be comfortable with yourself and accept your and your partner's imperfections. Be aware of how you're feeling and have complete faith in your capabilities.

Take it easy
A lot of women get stressed out during their pregnancy trying to keep up with their mental image of the perfect pregnancy, perfect health, sleep, doctor, environment, hospital, etc. While trying to get these in order can be a task, one ends up creating unnecessary anxieties and harmful stress. All you really need to do is take it easy on the stress.

Things will work themselves out. Slow down and don't bother yourself by standards of perfection laid down by others. Take care of yourself most definitely, but don't let things get to you.

mirrorfeedback@indiatimes.com

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Things only women can carry with elan

No matter how hard men try, they can never experiment with fashion and style as much as women.

We are a blessed lot when it comes to having fun dressing up as much as us me girlies. Here are a few things only we can get away with:

Colour me pink: Only women can wear stuff that is pink and fluffy and get away with it. A lot of girls have sported huge bunny fluffy flip-flops (or at least secretly wished they had) at some point of their lives. And, yes, how can we forget our cartoon characters pyjamas. However, wearing feather boas would be taking it a li'l too far. But guys flaunting pink, you're treading on very dangerous waters here.

Poker straight: We love the poker straight look and also manage to look amazing whether its a short crop or long Rapunzel-esque locks. But guys with poker straight fringes and textured layers? Eww. Leave those straighteners to us ladies, guys.

Li'l Miss Lacey: While we can't be a Victoria's Secret model sporting lacey lingerie everyday in Mumbai's sweltering heat, wearing sexy panties and bust boosting bras on occasions transforms us into instant divas! Guys you can stick to your boxers.

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Couch is everything a living room needs

It goes without saying that a living room set up is incomplete without a pleasant seating. An aptly designed couch makes for a complete interior experience. Comfort seating and loads of aesthetic value are big plusses that go with a well chosen sofa. A seating system that complements the decor is truly a must while decorating the living room.

Cane sofas, carved wooden couches, white metal and black iodised sofas, solid wood based sofas with fabric and leather upholstery, textile sofas and leather sofas are commonly in vogue. Spreading across all budgets from a modest, 15,000 to a whopping 3 lakh a set of sofa systems are available as sets in the ready made market and as customised pieces at sofa makers. The patterns available are countless and the combinations, variable. One needs to look into individual needs, space availability, colour of the living room, the decor theme et al while choosing just the right sofa. A hurried decision on buying sofas can at times lead to a frustrating experience. Additional seating like modas, bean bags and Mona Lisa deewans can go well with sofas of all shapes.

Javed Tajjuddin Qazi, a sofa maker from a city suburb, says, "The patterns available with sofa makers are much more than what is available at leading showrooms. Made to order sets are much cheaper, use better material and are at times even sturdier than what might be sold off as branded pieces. Plus, tailored sofas can be matched with any decor as per the need."

Ready made branded versions, however, supposed to add an 'oomph factor' apart from comfort angles for seating. Avers Smita Thite, an interior designer says, "I recommend the use of ready made branded sofas to my customers as they look elegant and are high on style quotient too". Smita feels the Pune customers are an aware lot and have no hang ups on outlaying big budgets for sofas. "The ready made branded market offers a wide range of 'affordable' varieties," she says.

Whether branded, ready made or tailor made, a sofa needs to be taken care of properly for longer life and added value. Small embellishments like contrast cushions, matching matting at the centre, decorative foot rugs at all individual chairs might just be some options elected to make a sofa look more elegant. Maintenance is as important as looks, if not more.

Javed says, "One must never use sofas without maintaining them." This expert further elaborates, "Cane sofas must be dusted with vacuum cleaners from time to time and a polish treatment is given once in five years. These can last forever if taken care of properly. What's more, they go with any kind of decor, modern or traditional. Polishing is a must for wooden sets of all types. Re- cushioning and repairing the loosened seats of sofa are best done before it starts sagging. A small investment of 5000 on reconditioning every four years can go a long way in using the same set forages. In this process, one can change the fabric too".

Javed further informs that leather sofas are best cleaned with a mixture of coconut oil and a mild detergent. He says, "Leather should be cleaned with a mixture of oil and water, never water alone as leather chips and peels off with water. For fabric sofas, the best care comes from periodic vacuuming and an annual sofa shampoo from professional cleaners. Fabric tends to get murky too soon and a regular wash is a complete must." Special conditioners and polishes are available for artificial and pure leather sofas and is an investment worth it.

As for the colours in vogue, Smita adds, "Black is an all time favourite in Italian designs. It goes well on any background. Other colours in rage are beige, off white, light mauve, light crimson, sandy brown and olive green. These go well with any background. People are also trying bold colours like yellow and pink, but they have to be carefully displayed, lest they look gaudy."

Box type sofas, C-shape seating, L-shape sets are all the current favourites. Pine and rubber wood benches are added as an accessory if space demands. Wood goes well with any background and a generous display of this material lends style quotient to any design. Floor pillows, Indian seating that is at a lower level than a sofa and a set of broad chairs can mingle well with any sofa system in a large living room. The right sofa material for individual need, the correct texture of the fabric for every decor and the apt shade for any living room can add magic to an otherwise boring ambience. One has to make a learned decision before buying the right sofa. Otherwise, hurry can lead to worry later.

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A fashionable girl should have these...

Fashion experts list out eight basic, essential wardrobe must-haves to look your best this season

The guy you met the other day has asked you out for dinner. But you realise that you don't have anything good to wear for the occasion. Don't freak out. All you need to do is refresh your wardrobe with a few basic and essential must-haves, from which you can pick and choose in a jiffy.

White shirt
A crisp white button-up shirt is a wardrobe essential. Being a neutral colour, it can instantly help you carry a neat and sophisticated look, irrespective of the occasion. This style staple can be paired with myriad items in your closet. "Team it up with coloured trousers or pencil skirt and blazer for official meetings, with minimum or no accessories," suggests Sushmi Siraj, fashion designer. For parties or evening outings, go for bright hues. You can wear short skirts or jeans with a waist coat or a chunky neckpiece, says Sushmi.

Blue denims
Nothing can replace a well-fitted pair of blue jeans. Fashion stylist Semu Bhatt says, "Be it for a casual outing or a party, you can wear it for style and comfort. All you need to do is team it up with a good T-shirt or a top, according to the occasion, and you're set to go." Today, the market offers a variety of jeans — leggings, skinny, slim, straight, boot cut, and even figure enhancers — to help you sport a look that speaks volumes about your style and attitude.

Black leggings
Black translucent leggings come as a lifesaver when you have a big party and have no time to wax your legs. "This can be teamed up with long or short tops, according to the body type. Black will suit almost everyone," says Shilpa Sivadas, a fashion designer. Wear an ankle-length or knee-length boots to complete the look.

Blazer
It's time to take out that glossy tank top that has been sitting in your closet untouched. A classic black blazer can camouflage any flaws. Qatar-based designer Soumya Sajid says, "Blazers look fabulous on all body types. However, choose one that is well-tailored, which accentuate your shoulders and waist." It can be worn with almost anything from trousers and jeans to dresses or skirts. "Accessorise your look with a long chain and a chunky pendant," suggests Soumya.

Tote
A good handbag is said to be a girl's best friend, especially one that can accommodate almost everything that she would use on a daily-basis. "A nice leather bag, preferably black or white, can go with almost any attire," says Shalini James, a Kochi-based fashion designer. You can also accessorise it with funky or printed scarves or colourful tassels.

Ethnic wear
Indian celebrities like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra have walked the red carpet flaunting a sophisticated desi look at various international festivals, only to grab the limelight. Chennai-based designer Jules Idi Amin says, "A sari is the perfect choice for an evening do, as it gives a woman an elegant look. A georgette or chiffon sari can suit any occasion." A neatly embroidered and designed anarkali, kurti or patiala pants are other ethnic options.

Little black dress
This is one staple outfit that every girl would swear by, no matter how lean or otherwise she is. "A little black dress adds to your glamour quotient. The dark hue conceals the flab and adds a curve to your body," says Sajita Salim, a Dubai-based fashion designer. You can accentuate your look either with an accessory, a waist coat or a shrug.

Stilettos
A pair of glossy black or red stilettos is a must in every woman's closet. Experts insist on buying a branded one though. Fashion consultant Malavika Mohan says, "Heels accentuate your curves and enhance your sex appeal. It can go with any outfit that you choose." Stiletto platform shoes, stiletto pumps, boots or sandals; there is a variety of options to suit your style.

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So what’s an eating designer?

Marije Vogelzang's an eating designer. "Not a food designer," she clarifies, because while a food designer is someone who works with food as a subject, Vogelzang designs from the verb, 'to eat'.

"I think that food is already designed by nature. I am interested in everything around food and especially the value of food, the emotional value, the rituals around it and the history and stories about food, where it comes from, how it's being prepared and transported, what happens in your body when you eat it," the Dutch artiste, who flew down to India recently for a hush-hush project involving an Indian hotel, elaborates.

Lost? So are we, until she whips out her laptop and walks us through her job, her life and her designs:

The white funeral
"My first project was a funeral dinner. Because in Holland, our funeral colour is black and I know your colour is white. And I think white is nicer, because it's much lighter and brighter. Also, I noticed that in many cultures around funerals, you have lots of food as a part of it and in Holland, we don't really have that. We only have a cup of coffee and a slice of sponge cake and that's it. So, I made a dinner only of white food. It was just completely white. I designed the food, but I also designed the crockery and everything around it. These flavours were combined very well together. Because they are very subtle and also, very bitter," she explains.

Marije says she started out wanting to be a product designer. "When I was still a student, that was in 1999, I was trying to find my design material. I went to all the workshops and I couldn't find any material. Because wood really doesn't work for me, and ceramics... I have to be too patient to make all these moulds and stuff. At the end of the day, I would go home and make dinner. And then I saw all my kitchen tools and I thought these are all my workshop tools," she says.

Elements
"I used to have two restaurants, and so when I opened the first one I said I am going to invite all my friends, and when they entered I asked them their birthday. When you know someone's date of birth, you also know there zodiac sign. When you know their zodiac sign, you also know their elements. In astrology, you have water, fire, earth and air, but I didn't tell them that I was going to place them in these sections. The earth people got all kinds of earth food — with earth flavours and things that grow under the ground like mushrooms. The fire people would eat spicy things, the water people had seafood and other watery things and so on. I don't really believe in astrology but it is interesting to make people think about what they are eating and why they're eating that," she says.

Veggie bling bling
The one aspect, she admits, where being an eating designer comes handy is while feeding her daughter. "When my daughter was three years old, she wouldn't eat any vegetables. And then I read that you have to eat something seven times before you accept a new flavour. It's just like learning a new language. You just have to repeat and repeat and repeat. Also, when you put kids on a dining table, you know, they don't have much to say about their lives, they can decide to not open their mouths when there's food and realise they have a lot of power when they do that so, if your mummy comes and then you close your mouth, then your mummy will behave really funny, so it is kind of a power. So, I thought I have to take them out of this situation of the dining table and I have to make sure that she tastes things several times. I invited her and her friends from the daycare for a workshop in my studio and I had a table full of vegetables and I told that we were going to do a jewellery-making workshop. The only way they could win the contest was if they used their teeth as a tool. So, they would get some tools to make jewellery but they really needed to use their teeth. So, they were nibbling away and I actually saw a boy, he was making a bracelet, and he was chewing, he thought, where's the bracelet gone? He'd actually eaten it. It's a way of taking them out of this continuous cycles of, 'no, I don't want to eat', 'yes, you have to eat'. And so, my daughter's actually eating vegetables now."

Eat, love, budapest
"In Budapest, gypsies are like the lowest caste in India. Nobody wants to interact with them, they're being discriminated against. Food is a very strong tool you can use to create a bond with people," she says about this particular project, which involved people being fed by gypsies. "To create understanding, to use food is one thing, but then to be fed by someone is another. And I think, that's why it's only women (in the project) because it is the mothers who feed their children. It is this kind of essence of life. I think it is very intimate. A mother feeds the child with food, but also with love. I thought about making this installation where people are getting physically fed with food but also with stories. It is kind of a strange environment and then you sit there and she feeds you her memories of food and she will include you in her life in that way. There's a saying that if you break bread with each other, then you can't break their neck."

Sharing dinner
"Many times people asked me to do Christmas dinners, but I never wanted to do it because in Europe, Christmas is already so full of designs and decorations. Christmas is really about being together and sharing food together and that's really it. Normally, you have a table and a tablecloth hangs down to the floor, but I just took it up into the air, so then you get a new space and it has slits in it so everybody sits in like that. Your head and your hands in the tablecloth (see left above). These were people who didn't really know each other, and they're physically connected, because if I pull here, you can feel it there. If you put people in strange situations, they start to bond and also, if you can only see your heads and not your clothes because your clothes reveal much of your identity and who you want to be, so, it kind of makes everybody equal and connects them in a way. Also, while one person would get a huge piece of rib, the second person would get a whole pumpkin stuffed with seeds and nuts and the third person would get a lettuce. People would start to cut everything up and start to share. So, it's really about a kind of bonding procedure," she says.

I love the Indian chaiwallahs
"This is my fourth time in India. I wanted to come to India many years before I actually came here. It was really on top of my list because I thought I would find a lot of inspiration here. There are many things that I admire about Indian food culture. I think here people have immense respect for rituals and the diverse food culture is much more valued. The awareness about food among people is commendable. I think in the western society, we lack that. We are quite poor when it comes to, you know we might be rich, culture, ritual... giving meaning to things. I really love street food and I like doing things like going to the chaiwallah where the making of tea is no less than a performance. And I feel that it also relates to my work in a sense, that they are already doing that," she says.

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The Lowland: A labyrinth of complicated relationships

Book: The Lowland
Author: Jhumpa Lahiri
Publisher: Random House India
Pages: 339
Price: Rs 499.

Relationships and complications are two sides of a coin and are balanced by a delicate thread of compromise, seeking commitment from everyone. Failing to contribute, if any, causes estrangement for a family whose generations struggle to reconcile for years to come.

The essence of Indian author and Pultizer Prize winner's latest offering, "The Lowland" shortlisted for 2013 Man Booker prize and the US National Book Award, revolves round the simple concepts of bonding and sharing, love and sacrifice, sufferings and misunderstandings spanning around three generations who continue to grapple with void and emptiness throughout their lives.

Brothers Subhash and Udayan have been inseparable since childhood. Udayan, 15-months-younger, is bold, fierce and impulsive. Living in the lowlands of Tollygunge in south Kolkata, they are innocent and mischievous and an extremely intelligent duo. There is nothing that could separate them - till the flames of the Naxalbari movement in the early 1970s create ideological differences between them. Slowly, they embark on their independent journeys.

Subhash, unaffected by the movement, leaves for Rhode Island in the US for his doctorate, while Udayan stays back to support and participate in the movement, strongly believing in its ideology and the changes it could bring to the country. Adapting to a new scenario, Subhash gets consumed in his world and the only mode of communication with his brother are letters informing about the space he is no longer interested in. Through these letters, he is introduced to his sister-in-law Gauri, as Udayan, as per his ways, chooses to marry the girl he loves and not the one approved by his family. As the letters continue, a telegram arrives announcing Udayan's death.

Subhash comes back to Tollygunge and to his home, yet not feeling at home. Moved by many factors, he offers to marry Gauri - a move opposed by his parents. Still, he goes ahead not knowing the decision would later estrange his relationship with all of them.

The narrative from here takes a different course, where Udayan is felt in each and every action of Gauri, who is juggling with the fate she couldn't reconcile with. Married twice in two years, her new life in Tollygunge is met with more silence and nostalgia while she is struggling to keep traces of her first husband out of her life.

Compromising for a few years, she takes a drastic step in the later part of her life, severing all ties with her husband and daughter because she could not make them a part of her existence. Her inability to cope with the unpredictability of life and its courses, and much because a part of Udayan was still alive in her, somewhere, refusing to die, leads to this step.

The author's strength undoubtedly lies in creating a fluid visual imagery that transports the reader into a world she wishes them to live in, breathe in and get completely absorbed by. The reader is given the liberty to sketch these characters, as not much effort has been wasted in describing them, but a great detail of effort has been put into dealing with complexities of situations, human actions and reactions and our irreparable memory that refuses to detach itself from attachments we all have in life.

These are not larger-than life characters but everyday mortals who are driven by emotions and can be weaker, selfish and naive while dealing with circumstances they are not prepared with. Estranged relations are a result of unhappiness but also because of the lack of compromises one refuses to make till one gets into the shoes of others.

It's a your's and mine story. It's our story. It's a simple story fathoming the complexities of relationships.

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6 Signs she is definitely cheating on you

Sometimes suspicion and mistrust can ruin your relationship with your girlfriend. But if the matter is serious and the nagging suspicion is impossible to ignore, here are few steps to figure out if your fears are real:

1. If she turns secretive and tries to guard her conversations on the phone, leaves the room everytime she gets a call on her cell
2. If you call or text her first all the time and she doesn't bother to do so then that is a bad sign

3. If she starts picking fights too often

4. If you catch her lying, it is often a cause for concern giving signal of infidelity
5. If you find a change in the behaviour of close common friends then it is possible that they know something that you don't. Perhaps you are the last to know
6. If your girlfriend suddenly starts worrying a little more about her appearance - new clothes, make-up...she may be trying to look good for someone else. If she gets dressed up for you, that's one thing but if they seem to spend a little more time looking good to go out without you, then that might be a cause to worry.

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Turn your bedroom balcony into a private haven

The balcony of your bedroom can be the best place for a chat with family members or to spend some solitary moments. If you are planning to fill up your empty balcony, here are some tips you should keep in mind.

-Seating arrangement is most important to feel relaxed. The size of the balcony should dictate the size of furniture that you opt for.

-Adding an umbrella or a swing can give a cosy feel.

-Use hanging flower arrangements if the area is small to avoid clutter.

-Proper lighting plays an important role in enhancing the look of your balcony. Choose a lamp that goes well with your theme.

-Sculptures or paintings on walls add to the beauty.

-Last but not the least, ensure that you invest in decor pieces that do not fade with the harsh daylight.

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Budapest: Pearl Of The Danube

Budapest has an old-world charm combined with the modernity of the present era that distinguishes it from many other cities around the world.

From the era of empires and kingdoms (Mongols, Ottomans, Turks, Habsburg) and their invasions, the bygone era of communism, the tragedies of war, Budapest has witnessed several twists and turns of history and yet retained its unique allure. The historic invasions have also left their own distinct cultural stamps on the city and a visit to Budapest offers an opportunity to witness several different cultural influences.

The city of Budapest was officially formed in 1873 and gets its name from its two districts or mini-cities in their own rights: Buda in the West and Pest in the East. Separating the two is the Danube River across which are several bridges built to connect Buda and Pest, the most noteworthy being the chain bridge - pretty as a picture!

General:

Public Transport: Budapest is a really big city and can be fairly hot in spring and summer; hence it is a great relief that the city is very well-connected by Metro, Buses, and Trams. There are three Metro lines (Yellow, red, and blue) that connect most places across the city.

Fun Fact: The Yellow Line Metro, also called the Millennium Subway, is the oldest underground train system in Europe. It was opened in 1896 when Hungary celebrated its 1000th anniversary and it connects the city center with City Park through its eleven stops.

There are also thirteen Trams/Trolley-buses that connect Northeast and Central Pest and offer majestic views of the city.

Fun Fact: The trolley line 70 was opened on Dec. 21, 1949, the 70th birthday of the soviet dictator Stalin - hence the number 70!

There is also an extensive bus network connecting main areas of the city as well as the suburbs.

Caution: When traveling through any means of public transport, be sure to buy a ticket. Sometimes you may find the ticket machines on the metro stations may not work, in which case, try to find a Metro/Rail employee to help you. There are many, many ticket inspectors and they really swarm the exits of main tourist destinations, and if found without a ticket (for any reason) the fines are hefty (anywhere from 10,000HUF onwards). Most inspectors do not speak English and will not accept any excuse (even broken ticket machines) so ensure to keep your ticket with you until you exit the mode of transport you have chosen.

How to get there

By Air

You can reach Budapest through several international carriers, as well as low cost European airlines (if flying from Europe itself). The Budapest Franz Liszt International Airport is situated about 15 km from the city center.

The airport is well-connected to the city by train, tax, and minibus (shared cabs). The train station near the airport is called Ferihegy and there are regular bus connections from this station to the terminals. The train to the city center will cost about 375 Hungarian forint (HUF). The taxis cost anywhere between 8500to 10,000 HUF. The minibus fare ranges from 4000 HUF to 6000 HUF.

By Rail

Budapest is very well-connected with most countries in Eastern and Central Europe. Majority of the international trains arrive at the Budapest Keleti station.

By Bus

If you are traveling within Hungary, there are several buses from different cities and often offer discounted prices. If traveling from other European countries, Eurolines offers some connections.

By Boat

To arrive in Budapest by boat over the Danube River can be a beautiful experience. However, it depends on weather and boat services are offered only from Vienna and Bratislava. Usually the services run between April and early November (depending on seasonal weather).

Climate

Budapest has a continental climate with humid and hot summers. Snowfall is common between December and January. The summers are hot and last until September. There are frequent showers in the month of June. The best months in terms of weather are in spring (March-April).

Where to stay

The city of Budapest offers a wide range of accommodation for all kinds of budgets. Although Budapest is comparatively cheaper than many other European capitals, the hotels in the city center, particularly close to Castle Hill cost a great deal more than several others in the city.

The ideal thing to do would be to search for best deals online before making your reservations.

Food

Vegetarians rejoice! Budapest offers several vegan and vegetarian restaurants. For those with a sweet-tooth (like the writer), Budapest is a delight. There are several bakeries offering wonderful pastries and baked goodies and the Marzipan chocolatesare a must-try.

There are also several cafes across the city, where you must just sit down and enjoy a relaxed cup of coffee or chai and watch the world go by. A truly Hungarian experience. Fun Fact: Tea is called chai in Hungarian!

For a truly memorable meal, head to the riverside in Pest where there are several Boat-Restaurants by the riverbank. They not only offer great traditional Hungarian cuisine but also a breath-taking panoramic view of the Danube River and the Castle. A meal with an unforgettable view!

Shopping

There are many local products and goods to choose from, such as the Hungarian paprika, hand-made Hungarian dolls, and the famous Herend porcelain. For quick souvenir purchases, head to Vaci Utca, the pedestrian-only promenade in Budapest. If there is only thing you would purchase, you should take home some of the marzipan sweets.

Expenses

Although Hungary joined the European Union (EU) back in 2004, but the Hungarian Forint (HUF) is still the currency in use. There are ATMs across Budapest that you can use to withdraw HUF. You can also exchange Euros or Dollars for HUFs. Many shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but to get better deals it is advisable to carry cash.

Places of Interest

If you have read so far, you would already know that Budapest has the oldest underground train system in Europe (the Yellow line!).

But that's not the only list where Budapest would figure in the top 10. The city boasts of one of the oldest zoos in the world, the second largest synagogue in the world, the European Union's longest river - Danube, and the third largest Parliament building in the world! And if that's not enough, the city plays host to some amazing music festivals around the year and offers many cultural extravaganzas such as Operas, festivals, and other events.

Some of the must see attractions of Budapest are:

The Budapest Zoo: The Budapest Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world. It opened in 1865 and it features not only animals but also a number of Art Nouveau buildings, such as the Elephant House, the Palm House, and the main entrance. It has over 800 animals and you can easily spend an entire day here. Most of the information signs are posted in Hungarian but that won't take away from your day at the zoo. Avoid it on weekends as the ticket lines can be long and slow.

The Chain Bridge: The first bridge to connect Buda and Pest, across the Danube is a sight to behold, both in daytime and at sunset when it comes alive with the evening lightings. A walk across the Chain Bridge is a must for anyone visiting Budapest. This walk will have you agreeing with the epithet bestowed on Budapest - 'Pearl of the Danube'.

Parliament: It is the third largest Parliament building in the world and is counted among Europe's most beautiful buildings. It is situated by the Danube River and is one of the most photographed monuments of Hungary.

Try to visit it when you are traveling light as the security here is even more stringent than those of some airports. You can take an organized tour if the building is open to visitors (when the Parliament is not in session, of course!). During the tour you can also visit the crown room where you can see the crowns of all the kings of Hungary.

Castle Hill: Castle Hill overlooks the river Danube. It is a nice walk up the hill from the Chain Bridge. If you do not feel like walking, or if it is a hot day, you can take the funicular to the top. There is a beautiful church ( Matthias Church) at the top and some coffee shops and of course spell-binding views of the city. There are also several attractions such as the Royal Palace, Vienna Gate, National Gallery, and Fisherman's Bastion etc. in the Castle district.

Gellert Hill: This hill offers some of the best views of Budapest and the Danube River. At the top of the hill stands the impressive Gellert Statue. A great sunset view point, as the sun sets and the bridges of Budapest start to light; it is a moment you will not forget easily.

Hungarian State Opera House: The Opera House houses both the State Opera and the State Ballet and is designed like the Vienna Opera House.
If you do not intend to catch a show at the Opera House then you can still visit the place with a guided tour and com away impressed by the grandeur of this magnificent building.

Heroes' Square: It is a large square that was built as a tribute to the Heroes of Hungary and to commemorate the Magyar Conquest of Hungary. There is Millennial Monument in the center of the square. The Fine Arts Museum and the Mucsarnok Art Gallery are at a stone's throw away from the square.

Fun Fact: A fun fact that is my personal favorite is as per local belief if you touch the Anonymous statue in the park near the Heroes' Square you will become a better writer.

Thermal Baths: A reminiscent of the Turkish era in Hungary, Budapest has more than 100 thermal springs - more than any other capital city in the world. The city has dozens of medicinal baths, Bath therapies and steam baths.

Safety: Budapest is a safe city in general. Pick pocketing is among the most common crime that tourists face. So be careful when traveling on the metros or trams/buses. Do not leave your bags unattended while on public transport, or carry your backpacks in the front where you can always observe them.

Also, be careful where you change your currency as some of the local street money changers lure tourists with attractive rates but actually end up cheating them.

Budapest has great weather; it is packed with museums and cultural attractions, it offers an insight into a complex and fascinating history - so one can say it is nearly impossible to be bored in Budapest.

Closure Line

If you want to experience the nostalgia of Budapest's intriguing history or simply soak in the Danube's scenic beauty and enjoy the local cuisine (do not forget the marzipan), then Budapest should be on your next itinerary.

Source: "Aditi Sharma, www.terrainspotter.com"

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How men can dress their age

The gravest mistake Indian men make is to dress older or younger than they are. A sartorial guide for men in their 20s and 30s

Indian stylists will tell you that the one fashion hurdle most Indian men face is not being able to pick ageappropriate clothes. It turns out that the 20-somethings have their own share of decadal difficulties, while they try to take style clues from dad and make a frail attempt at looking more mature. And, men in 30s manage to misinterpret the daunting challenges of adulthood into a wardrobe full of triple value tees and devoid of flavour.

The 20s experiment: Use trial-and-error in clothing, too. It's too soon to have figured out your personality, or signature style, so keep trying. This is probably the only time you can push the limits, and get away with it. So, go ahead.

Invest in basics: Pick a few key pieces — a pair of snug fitting jeans, a tailored blazer and dress shirts. Gradually, these will be the pieces you'll reach out to when in doubt.

Fit is key: You aren't 18 anymore, so it's no longer necessary to act cool with a silhouette that's two sizes large. The shoulder seams should hit you at the shoulder, and the torso should be trim without being tight.

Drop the logos: You don't have to be a billboard. Why advertise clothing brands on your chest? Pick tees that are plain. Kiddie stuff is for highschoolers.

Keep the interview gear handy: It's now that you are going to bag a job, so be ready. Don't pick up anything that's pretentious or loud (that peach-size dial watch can go). Spend your cash on a pair of wingtip brogues and a coordinated belt. The shirt should be well-tailored. You can't tell but it's what will set you apart from the others who'll borrow daddy's shirt.

Keep it formal: Black is your best friend. A black two-button suit with side vents is perfect. Slip it over a white French-cuffed shirt, patent leather lace-ups and a bow tie, and you go one notch higher on the suave meter.

The 30s
Develop a style: Building a unique identity isn't always about dishing out cash. Figure what you like. Is it monogrammed shirts or suit jackets with bright lining? And then pepper your wardrobe with pieces that incorporate these.

Don't be a mall dad: If you venture out shopping on a Sunday, you'll bump into this type — the men who dress in weathered, oversize dad jeans or frat boy cargo shorts with a tee. Just because you don't go drinking out with the boys six nights a week doesn't mean you lose your coolth. Well-fitting denims in a dark wash is your first step to reclaiming style.

Mean business: You are probably someone's boss now, and should ideally have a pay cheque that can sponsor an upgrade, so ditch the chunky shoes and belt. Invest in a dress watch, a slim reversible black-brown belt (Italian made is best), a pair of simple silver cufflinks and a made-to-measure suit.

Be discerning: Teach yourself the art of identifying class from crass. It's high time. For instance, you can tell a mediocre suit by looking for clumsy-looking edge stitches. Is it indented down the edge of the lapel? That's a sign. Look at how the collar fits and the way the sleeve is inserted. Does the sleeve have top stitching? Steer clear.

Don't be last season: Printed ties spell the 1980s. It's the textured ones in wool or linen that are big right now. A crisp handmade shirt always, always works. Remember, making a subtle statement is about the simple things that are crafted well.

Keep a don't-touch list: Remember there are some things you don't consider sporting in this decade. Ed Hardy shirts, jeans that sag below your underwear line, leather wristbands, Crocs — throw them out. Evolve!

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Sport vintage military look the right way

Men can try military and utility-influenced outfits for the autumn-winter season.

Streetwear brand Breakbounce's team has drawn inspiration from the vintage military gear, heritage work wear and industrial cuts to create new classics for men's wardrobe.

The collection consists of trousers, tees, shirts and much more.

"The attention to detail, the high street fashion quotient, the craftsmanship, the fabric and finish giving the product a distinct touch and feel is what goes into Breakbounce streetwear design philosophy," Nitisha Kapur, director - Marketing, Breakbounce, said in a statement.

The collection also features a range of washed light and heavy weight denim shirts and Breakbounce's trademark streetwear version of the 'Shacket,' a hybird shirt and jacket that can easily be worn over, or under.

Cotton has been extensively used along with knits, denim and more. The colours are mostly bright and bold like yellow, purple, green and red.

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Meet Navi Mumbai’s Bard

Award-winning poet and translator and a Navi Mumbai resident since the last 20 years, Mustansir Dalvi talks about the city that he calls home

Professor Mustansir Dalvi, who has been a resident of Navi Mumbai since past 20 years, says the satellite city has a heritage far richer than Mumbai and pre-dates the island city by centuries. In his book of poems titled brouhahas of cocks, Dalvi traces the history of the Konkan plateau as a whole all the way back to the jurassic period as a fitting reply to whoever thought the city didn't have a heritage

In your book, there is a section of poems about Navi Mumbai that you have titled 'Urbs Secunda'. How did you come to decide on this title?
Urbs, in Latin, means town. After the British settled Bombay, they built most of their monumental public buildings that gave the city its first urban image. Once the Empire was established, India was the jewel in its crown and Bombay the first city of Empire, which they glowingly called Urbs Prima Indis. New Bombay or Navi Mumbai, for me, is therefore Urb Secunda, which literally means second city.

You have written one about specific areas in Navi Mumbai, like 'Terna Circle'. It's not that special a landmark. What made you do that?
Well, it is a landmark for rickshaw-wallahs if you want to come visit me. Terna circle a small roundabout at the edge of New Panvel. The development of spaces within Navi Mumbai over the last 20 years has been slow, and fitful. Not everything is in place. While good streetlights and proper paving took their time to arrive, people were already there and had occupied spaces. So, 'Terna Circle' is about a city in the making. Another poem, 'Friday Mosque in Navi Mumbai' talks about an incomplete building that becomes the larger metaphor for an incomplete city. Urb Secunda, such as it is, is located somewhere in the middle ground between incompleteness and occupation, even today. I hope that sense emerges from these poems.

In the book, you imply that in Navi Mumbai much of the past still remains from before the time that the city was planned and built in the 1970's.
Navi Mumbai was never a blank slate. Even before development started here, the mainland across the harbor from Bombay was variously inhabited. Navi Mumbai is superimposed on that which preceded it. Some poems do make the past emerge in the present. For example, the aamrahi or mango orchards are ubiquitous all over the Konkan, of which Navi Mumbai is a part. 'Pushing Fruit' talks about one such mango orchard close to my own house, which is now a public garden maintained by CIDCO. Now, you can find jogging tracks and benches and park-equipment, things like that, but a few mango trees still stand. These trees pre-date Navi Mumbai. They still blossom in season and still give fruits of sorts. In more than a few poems I have tried to show how history keeps making its presence felt by poking its way through all things contemporary.

What is a good place to find out the history of Navi Mumbai?
That is a very broad question. If one really wants answers, one has to work towards it. There is no museum of Navi Mumbai, no central location for resources of information.

What are your immediate concerns about the city?
I am concerned about the loss of a lot of our built heritage, which is largely unknown and unlamented, because of the impression that Navi Mumbai is a completely new city built on completely open ground. Several beautiful wadas that were almost 200 years old have now been replaced by housing societies, and man-made lakes or talavs, which were the highlight of these areas, are now being filled up. Research on Navi Mumbai has shown that buildings that pre-dated the 70's include some very interesting examples of religious and domestic architecture. Places of worship in Navi Mumbai were largely domestic in scale. In the past, they all looked self-similar. Today, mainly as a consequence of rising affluence and aspiration these buildings are being transformed with modern materials and construction to highlight religious affiliations and separate identities. This, in a sense, is a sign of the age old cosmopolitanism breaking down.

Is there an underlying theme of your book besides the poems about Navi Mumbai?
In any book of poems, unless there is a project like Arun Kolatkar's 'Jejuri', for instance, themes are more implied than obvious. Most books are collections of poems, written at various times, talking about different things. The implied theme of 'Brouhaha of Cocks' is 'location'. Most of the poems locate you in a specific place. These are poems of geography and the people that inhabit these environments.

What is it that you love about Navi Mumbai?
Navi Mumbai has an urban heritage, which is even older than Bombay. As an architect, that knowledge gives me a certain delight. What I mostly love is its spectacular geography. I stay in Panvel and all around me there are some of the most beautiful hill-scapes you can find anywhere in India. From my house I can see, on the one side the Karnala funnel followed by Prabal and Vishalgadh and Matheran. On the other side, in the distance is Haji Malang. Each one has an iconic shape and Panvel is sited right in the middle. The Konkan is very rich in all types of landscapes. I have tried to talk about this in my poem 'The Last Dinosaur walks Matheran'. Even island Mumbai is a part of Konkan. I have always looked at Mumbai and Navi Mumbai as a continuum, and I am very lucky to call both home.

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3 ways tea helps you to get gorgeous

From soothing tired eyes to adding lustre to your hair, tea is a beauty pick-me-up

1. Moisturises skin: If you have dry skin, simply spray the face with some cold, green tea. It hydrates the skin and removes impurities.

2. Removes under eye puffiness: Place a used tea bag in the frdge and then place it under the eyes. The caffeine in tea shrinks blood vessels and reduces puffiness/dark circles.

3. Shine to hair: Rinse your hair using black tea or green tea. It can reduce breakage, stimulate hair growth.

4. Removes foot odour: Using a black tea foot soak is said to help smelly feet. The tannic acid present in it is what tackles the problem.

5. Calms skin post shaving: If your legs turn red and itch post shaving, place a cool teabag on the area. It soothes razor burns on the skin.

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Top 12 foods to improve sex drive

It's commonly perceived that foods that look like body parts can boost your sex drive. Dr Vijay Singhal, Sexologist with Delhi based Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute lists out the truth behind foods and fruit that can improve your libido.

Sexologist, Dr Vijay Singhal explains the concept of foods for sex and how they can improve the libido. "Any healthy food is good for sex. However, there are certain items that are particularly beneficial- Walnuts, strawberry, avocados, watermelons and almonds. One must note that alcohol is bad for a healthy sex life - it increases the desire but decreases the performance."

Walnuts
Walnuts improve the quality of sperm. It is known to improve the shape, movement and vitality of the sperm. Include walnuts in your diet to improve fertility.

Strawberries and raspberries
The seeds of these fruits are loaded with zinc which is essential for sex for both, men and women. If women have high levels of zinc their bodies find it easier to prepare for sex. In men, zinc controls the testosterone level which is responsible for producing sperm. It is important that men load up on zinc as their zinc levels reduces during intercourse.

Avocados
Folic acid and vitamin B6 are both necessary for a healthy sex drive. Folic acid pumps the body with energy, while vitamin B6 stabilises the hormones.

Watermelon
Watermelon improves your erection and increases your libido. They also contain citrulline which releases amino acids and arginine in the body. Arginine is responsible for vascular health.

Almonds
Almonds contain arginine which improves circulation and relaxes blood vessels. This amino acid found in almonds helps you maintain an erection.

Chocolate
Dark chocolate releases serotonin and endorphins that improves your mood. It doesn't improve libido but you will not be a grouch.

Eggs
Consume eggs for healthy erection. Eggs contain amino acid L-arginine that can improve erectile dysfunction.

Peaches
Vitamin C present in peaches improves sperm count and the quality of the sperm. Peaches contain high levels of vitamin C that is great for reducing infertility.

Coffee
Coffee is a stimulant, hence spikes your sex drive. Coffee can stimulate the brain to heighten arousal.

Saffron
Saffron is a natural aphrodisiac and should be consumed to improve your sex drive and your performance in bed. Saffron can also boost stamina and energy.

Steak
Steak is a great ingredient to boost your sex drive-it contains zinc, vitamin B, iron and protein. These compounds are essential for both men and women as they help improve the libido.

Read more Personal Health, Diet & Fitness stories on www.healthmeup.com

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What's keeping Gen Y sleepless?

An increasing number of youngsters find technology and television more enticing than sound sleep.

Bindi Mehta, a student of business studies from Bangalore, says her day picks up pace once she returns home late in the evening. Glued to her laptop and smart phone, with the TV tuned in to a music channel, she spends almost the entire night talking to her boyfriend, watching movies on the net or catching up with friends on social media networks. In fact, sleep is hardly on her mind before 3 am. Bindi is no exception. Technology and television are keeping an increasing number of Gen Yers sleepless.

Tech-addicts?
Hina Khan, a writer in her 20s, says, "I don't sleep till 1.30 am on weekdays. During weekends, it can stretch till 3 am. Even if I sleep early, I wake up late. So, I don't see any point in sleeping early. I have a boyfriend now, but even when I was single, I used to spend time chatting with friends. The best part is, my parents don't monitor my phone calls."

Doesn't it make her drowsy? Hina says she makes up for it by taking a short nap at work, after lunch. And if she is to be believed, it works for her.

According to psychiatrists and counsellors, video games and texting are next to TV and laptops when it comes to disrupting sleep. The more you interact with people at night, the more awake and alert you will be.

Actor Darsheel Safary of the Taare Zameen Par fame says one can't escape the lure of technology. But, says the teenager, his parents ensure that he sleeps on time. "It's not just about texting friends. I enjoy exploring technology in the evenings as I have more free time. Occasionally, I also play video games."

The flip side
Dr Anjali Chhabria, psychiatrist, says she often comes across parents who complain about their children not sleeping enough. "This is a generation that wants too much too soon, so 24 hours are not enough for them. Gen Yers are not worried about sleeping, they mostly catch up on their sleep during the weekends. They may get away with it now, but will pay a heavy price later," she informs.

Stress-buster?
Actor Divyendu Sharma says erratic working hours are also to be blamed. "Many youngsters work in the entertainment and software industries and their office hours are erratic. Even entrepreneurs work till late, so to expect them to sleep on time is not practical. As far as I am concerned, I enjoy watching movies on my laptop till late," he explains.

Siddhraj Sarvaiya, a software programmer, is hooked to his games. His father did object, but Siddhraj says it takes his mind off work-related stress. "Chatting, texting and playing video games take my mind off constant worries and insecurities. It also helps me enjoy the present without thinking too much about future plans and ambitions."

Boney S, a writer, is a news junkie. He can't sleep without checking the latest news updates on internet. He says, "I also make it a point to watch movies or catch up on the latest e-book. I usually also go to sleep listening to songs on my mp3 player. If I don't do these things, I feel that the day has been incomplete. On week days, I go to sleep around 4 am."

However, Dr Chhabria cautions that such a lifestyle can have major repercussions. Many youngsters end up making endless cups of coffee and sleeping pills a habit. She says, "Many youngsters in the age bracket of 16-20 insist on taking sleeping pills."

While a technology deprived life may be inconceivable to most youngsters — we are not even suggesting it — the trick is to know where to draw the line. Wake up. Before it's too late.

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Benefits of Suryanamaskar

The Suryanmaskar has many benefits and if done regularly can not only help you lose flab but can also help you combat diseases

The Suryanmaskar has many benefits and if done regularly can not only help you lose flab but can also help you combat diseases. Here are a few benefits of this asana...

- Suryanamaskar, or Sun Salutations, ideally done facing the early morning sun, helps our body to soak in its benefits — sun rays are a rich source of vitamin D and helps to strengthen our bones and also helps to clear our vision.

- This asana, apart from improving one's posture, also gives a proper workout to the body and so helps in losing unwanted flab.

- Regular practice of this asana can also help you loose the excess belly fat.

- The postures in Suryanamaskar stretches our muscles and makes our body very flexible.

- The moves and postures of the asana help all our internal organs function better — the various poses regulates our blood flow, benefits the digestive system and makes it more efficient.

- It helps combat insomnia as it relaxes the body and calms the mind.

- It helps regulate menstrual cycles and makes childbirth easier.

- This asana is known to facilitate blood circulation and thereby help hair growth and prevent hair problems.

- It reduces anxiety and restlessness and enhances our strength and vitality.

- Suryanamaskar benefits not just adults, but kids as well.

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Habits every woman must ditch

While most of us make it a point to eat healthy and exercise as often as possible, we tend to ignore other simple things that actually take a toll on our well-being.

Find out if you are compromising on your health everyday by indulging in these habits that you must say goodbye to pronto...

Wearing heels often
Do your back and feet a favour and keep the high heels only for special occasions. Victoria Beckham and Kim Kardashian may swear by their towering stilettos but they also have a battery of help to cater to their every need. An alarming number of women have started wearing heels on a daily basis, or every other day. And experts say that wearing high heels affects posture, puts a lot of pressure on joints, and at times even lead to conditions like painful bunions, hammer toes, back pain and arthritis. Not to mention the risk of twisting your leg and falling down.
Damage control: Ensure that if you have to wear heels often, they aren't more than 1.5 inches. Alternatively, carry a pair of flats while you travel and wear heels only for some time. Rest your feet after wearing heels by soaking feet in warm water.

Lugging around a heavy handbag
Most womens hangbags weigh an average two to five kilos. Shocked? You should be. The sheer number of things women keep and carry in their handbags can scare most men off.
But carrying around such heavy bags put your health at risk — you're inviting a health problems like back, neck and shoulder pain. Your posture also goes for a toss — lugging around a heavy bag will make you slouch sooner or later.
Damage control: Make it a habit to empty your bag every week or two and carry only absolutely necessary items. Or even better — switch to a smaller bag to avoid the temptation of putting more things in your handbag.

Not removing your makeup at night
Sometimes even the most meticulous women give in and don't remove their makeup before turning in at night. While this cardinal sin is a strict no-no, what you should know is that leaving makeup on all night is inviting skin problems. Your face needs to be cleaned of the makeup, dirt and oil at the end of the day or you will face problems like clogged pores, tired looking skin and pimples. Wearing eye makeup overnight can cause eye irritation or even infection.
Damage control: Keep a bottle makeup remover and cotton swabs right next to your bed so that no matter how tired you are, you can just reach out and remove the makeup.

Trying to outdo men at drinking
Among those women who feel they can drink as much as men if not more? Do yourself a favour and stay away from such drinking competitions. On an average, women not only weigh lesser than men, they also have lesser body water to dilute the alcohol, meaning they get drunk faster. Not to mention the damage you do to your liver by these binge drinking sessions.
Damage control: Let the men drink themselves silly. Recognise your limits and stick to them.

Wearing ill-fitting bras
Over a whopping 65% of women are thought to wear the wrong sized bra. And wearing an ill-fitting bra can have repurcussions like neck, back and breast pain, bad posture, skin irritation and even breathing problems. Not only will your clothes sit badly on you but you will also slouch a bit.
Damage control: Go to a lingerie store and get yourself measured by an expert so that you know your exact size. And since womens bodies tend to change, get yourself measured once a year.

Dwelling over the past
When you refuse to let go or stop thinking of your past or worrying incessantly about the future, you are damaging your present as well your future. Mental stress can drain you of energy and affect you in more ways than you realise. And according to studies, women have a higher chance of suffering from stress-related disorders than men.
Damage control: If you find yourself depressed or anxious, ask yourself what is causing it. Is it a broken relationship or health woes? Address the problem at the root and don't be afraid of asking for help.

Worrying about looks
Vanity affects both the sexes but it affects a far larger number of women than men. And women have a range of body issues, which can take a toll on them mentally. Going on numerous diets, having eating disorders and undergoing excessive cosmetic surgery can cause you physical harm.
Damage control: Toss those beauty magazines in the trash and improve your body image by making a conscious effort. Be happy with what you've been given.

Emotional eating
When was the last time you reached out for that comfort food and guiltily ate it? Women are genetically more emotional than men while comfort eating affects both sexes, it is said that men tend to eat emotionally when they're happy and women when they are upset. And women tend to satiate their cravings with sweet, high calorie foods instead of healthier options.
Damage control: Next time instead of allowing the carvings to get the better of you (and your waistline), distract yourself with something other than food.

Not sleeping enough
Do you get your eight hours of sleep every night? Or do you scrimp and then sleep all weekend? Don't blame a hectic lifestyle or stress on not getting enough sleep. Not only can inadequate sleep make you feel lethargic, it can also make you look like hell, apart from causing accidents, overeating and an increased heart disease risk. Sleep affects your blood pressure and mood more than it affects men.
Damage control: Go to sleep early as often as you can and wake up at the same time everyday.

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Try slow cooking in a tagine!

For moist and nutrient-rich food, the Moroccan one-pot style of slow cooking meat or vegetables with spices, works perfectly

The next time you have dinner guests over, prepare a tagine. These eye-catching ceramic pots are used to make moist and delicious vegetables, chicken, lamb and fish in a rich stew, slow cooked to perfection. A staple in kitchens in Morocco, tagines also present one of the healthiest ways to make food.

Drama in presentation
The handmade tagine scores with table presentation. The round dish with a conical lid comes in a variety of colours and patterns. Traditionally, it is made of heavy clay and consists of two parts: a flat slightly lifted base and a tall, cone-shaped lid that covers the base. Since the pot makes for both, the cooking and serving vessel, it's important to layer ingredients inside correctly. Traditionally, diners gather around the glazed dish and eat the meat and veggies with couscous and bread.

Secret to its taste
The tagine is either baked in the oven or cooked on the stove (if it has a metal bottom). The conical lid has a special purpose. As the food cooks, steam rises into the conical lid, condenses, and slowly drips back onto the meat, fish or vegetables, resulting in extremely moist, succulent fare. Thus, there is no evaporation and the food gets stewed evenly over duration of two to three hours, without drying. A tip to cut down on cooking time is to brown the meat and onions with spices in the pan and then finish cooking the same in the tagine.

Sauces and flavours
The two key flavours that arise out of a tagine are sweet or spicy. And certain ingredients are best paired with certain meats. Chicken goes well with preserved lemon and olives and lamb with dried fruit and garlic. Honey, cumin, and herbed butter also give tagines the main flavours. You can make a chickpea tagine with apricots and harissa sauce, but the most popular of all recipes is the baked fish tagine which is made in chermoula sauce, a marinade of garlic, cumin, chilli, lemon, olive oil and cilantro or parsley. If you like it spicy, go with the fiery, red chilli harissa paste or the popular ras-el-hanout, which is a pungent blend of spices.

Points to remember

-Ceramic or clay tagines should only be used over low to medium-low heat to avoid damaging it.
-To cook, cover the meat/veggies with water (since the tagine creates steam as it cooks, you don't need to add too much liquid to the dish). Add honey and lemon juice and cover with lid. Reduce heat to a very gentle simmer.
-After about 30 minutes, remove the lid, turn the ingredients carefully, add dried fruit or olives and cover and cook for another 30 minutes.
-Olive oil is mostly used for tagine cooking. Usually about three tablespoons will do in a recipe for four people.
-You need time for this style of cooking. While chicken takes about two hours to cook, lamb will need up to four hours' cooking time.

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Bollywood girls go backless

From the scooped back to the cutout and going backless, actresses get oomphy this season...

Go ahead, let everyone stare at your back! The season's darling is the back cutout dress. Seductive in style, the fad can flatter the shape like no other and lend a sensuality to the look. At a music awards function in Hollywood this year, the red carpet showed off this backless trend the most! Taylor Swift and Kelly Osbourne wore the cutout. Actress Jennifer Lawrence wore a full-length version and Zoe Saldanha went sexy in her mini. Back home too, B-Town gals went peek-a-boo in the 'IT' trend du jour. Check it out...

How to wear it

-This dress spells elegance and can go for both the day and a night out with friends.
-Try a colourblock look, too much pattern and design might kill it!
-To accessorise, go with simple nude sandals or even a small clutch. Avoid the big purse with it.
-You can have a cutout in places like the collarbone area, shoulders, lower back and hips.
-Heels or peep-toes are recommended.

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Maternal smoking linked to poor infant immunity

A new study has revealed that smoking during pregnancy is associated with both respiratory and non-respiratory infections in infants, resulting in increased risk for hospitalization and death.

"We've known for a long time that babies born to mothers who smoke during pregnancy are at high risk for serious medical problems relating to low birth weight, premature delivery and poor lung development," lead study author Abigail Halperin, MD, MPH said.

Halperin said that while respiratory infections have been recognized as a common cause of these sometimes life-threatening illnesses, this study shows that babies exposed to smoke in utero also have increased risk for hospitalization and death from a much broader range of infections- both respiratory and non-respiratory- than we knew before.

The researcher said that the findings were largely independent of birth weight and gestational age, thus even full-term babies with normal weight are at increased risk for hospitalization or death from multiple types of infections if their mother smoked.

The results suggest that exposure to smoke during pregnancy harms infants' immune responses more generally, not just within the respiratory system, she said.

The study also found that when mothers cut back on their cigarette smoking or quit part way through their pregnancy, it seems to lower their child's risk of infection, Halperin said.

The study is to be presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference and Exhibition in Orlando.

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A revealing story on Kashmir

Title: Our Moon has Blood Clots

Author: Rahul Pandita
Publisher: Random House India
Pages: 258
Price: Rs.499

Only one who has undergone pain and witnessed it first hand could have written this moving account of how the Kashmir Valley forced the Pandits to flee -- and then sowed the seeds of fiction that Governor Jagmohan authored the exodus so that he could 'take care' of the Muslims.

And since in secular India it is a political sin to say anything negative about Muslims and Islam, the fiction gained currency. Even the Indian media was largely apathetic to the suffering of the Pandits. The Indian state would be accused of brutalising the Valley's Muslim people but what was ignored was "that the same people also victimised another people".

This is the story that Rahul Pandita, born in Kashmir Valley and forced to quit Srinagar during the troubled 1990s, exposes with an evident sincerity, with a tortured heart but one which hasn't bid goodbye to human values. Unlike many from his community, he has no hatred for Kashmiri Muslims, not even to those who grabbed his ancestral house (after it had been ravaged by Islamists) and quietly made it their own.

This is a powerful story, one that can't be ignored even as the Pakistan-backed separatist movement rages on, turning large parts of what was once a Sufi land into an Islamist hub. This is as much a personal account as it is a surgery of the politics of hatred whose face is the drive for the so-called 'azadi'.

Unlike those who would want to sweep the ugly truth under a (Kashmiri) carpet, Rahul is not shy; he tells you how ordinary Kashmir Muslims too, at times, assisted thugs mouthing 'azadi' slogans to kill fellow Kashmiris in cold blood, only because they belonged to another religion.

The author and his family, like innumerable Pandits, were forced to live as refugees in Jammu before finally settling down in Delhi, changing houses as many as 22 times. "I have reduced my life to names and numbers, I have memorised the names of every Pandit killed during those dark days, and the circumstances in which he or she was killed. I have memorised the number of people killed in each district."

If you need to understand the Kashmir story, this book cannot be ignored. It is powerful, painful and revealing.

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12 non-beauty uses for nail polish

They are commonly applied to beautify your talons, but nail varnish can serve other purposes as well. Take a look...

1. Colour code your keys
So, you have a 'key' concern. All your keys — those of your house, drawer and closet look similar. Just colour each key with a different-hued nail polish. Easy-peasy!

2. Labelling your spices
Powdered cumin seeds, coriander seeds and garam masala look the same to an amateur cook. Why not label your spice bottles? Waterproof those labels with a swipe of clear polish to protect them from dampness.

3. Seal an envelope
Just when you need to seal an envelope, did the glue stick decide to pull a vanishing act? Try dabbing some clear nail polish on the corners of the envelope.

4. A thread-and-needle situation
Don't we all struggle to get the thread through the eye of the needle? Lightly dip the end of your thread in nail polish. This will make it harder and easier to pull through the needle.

5. Safeguard jewellery
Most of us love junk jewellery, but not everyone's skin takes to it well. Have you observed how often your skin turns green after wearing that fancy ring or chunky necklace? Prevent it by painting a clear coat of polish on the side that comes into contact with your skin. Stone embellishments on dresses are delicate, so apply a coat of clear nail varnish to prevent them from falling. You can also do this for your costume jewellery.

6. Stick shoe laces
The ends of shoelaces have an uncanny knack of unraveling, rendering them useless in no time. You can either burn the ends or better still, coat them with nail polish. For a fun twist, give clear nail polish a miss and go for coloured ends.

7. Tighten loose screws
Remember that screw on the handle of your toolbox that loosens up all the time? Well, apply a coat of nail polish after tightening the screws. They won't come off for a long time.

8. Paint your shoe soles
Give your plain, old soles a fresh lease of life by painting them in vibrant hues. Try turquoise blue and neon orange or go for red soles.

9. Smooth splinters
Sometimes, your clothes get stuck in those annoying bits of wood jutting out of furniture or wardrobe. Just smooth them down and apply a coat or two of clear nail polish. This should help until the handyman fixes the problem.

10. Avoid tears
You noticed a teeny-tiny hole in your leggings after you have left from home. Now, what do you do? Grab a bottle of clear nail varnish and apply a little on the edges of the tear. This will prevent the frayed edges from widening further.

11. Prevent tarnish
Apply a coat of clear nail polish to your belt buckles to prevent them from tarnishing.

12. Secure buttons
It is extremely embarrassing when buttons come off your blouse at unexpected moments. Here's what to do — secure them with a coat of nail polish.

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4 Types of tea leaf symbols

Find out what those patterns at the bottom of your cup signify.

The Four Types of Symbols
Tea leaf symbols are broken down into four main categories. They are:

People
This can be divided into two parts: people and body parts. It could be an indication of the role of a certain person in your life.

Animals
The types of animals which appear in a tea-leaf reading often mirror our hopes, fears, or dreams. They can also reveal personal qualities that we are expressing or show us the inner truth of how we are feeling.

Objects
Objects reflect what we create and generate, be it positive energy or chaos.

(Compiled by Melissa D'costa)

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Working parents failing to give children time

Parents are increasingly struggling to adjust as they get entangled between the pressures of full-time employment and the demands of caring for their children, according to new research.

The authors examined how the introduction of ROWE (Results Only Work Environment) has impacted parents' perceptions of their time.

Under this scheme employees are paid for results, rather than their time.

The data showed that both parents saw changes in working hours such as ROWE as a major factor to their time, yet only mothers reported increased schedule control and improved time adequacy.

However, this change was shown to be in perception only, as little change was reported in the actual time spent with children beyond evening meals.

The study is published in the Journal of Marriage and Family.

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Interiors of your workplace matter most

Is your workplace high on aesthetics? Or does your workstation intimidate you? Anishaa Sahijwala throws light on th importance of a modern, well designed workspace

In a day and age when professionals spend most of their time at work, it is important for organisations to design their workplace to suit the needs of employees. Workplace interiors speak of the organisation. And with an increasing number of companies cost-cutting, this potential branding tool is being sidetracked. Abhinav Shetty, MD, Saga Infrasol, an interior design studio explains, "The designing of a workplace should be planned with the occupants in mind. Basic design elements include access to daylight, exterior views, and open design concepts that encourage multipurpose meeting areas. A well designed workplace can help make the most of available space, yet motivate employees to give their best. When a potential client walks into your space, they should immediately understand your business focus and philosophy."

Here are tips that will help you design your workplace:

Space counts
Since professionals spend most of their time at work, it is important for them to enjoy their workspace. Most organisations, to save resources, tend to over use the office place. "Every employee must be given their space. The space between my desk and the neighbouring desk is less than a foot. While we make sure we put in our best, we need our privacy too. With so many employees made to work in a limited space, the office looks cluttered as well. Besides these, I believe that the design and look of your workplace," says IT professional Sanaya Dhar.

Storage matters
Every workstation in an office must have a dedicated storage unit. While most companies believe that documents can now be stored online, many employees yet vouch for the importance of a dedicated storage unit. Explains Sumit Bhatia, a CA by profession, "Storage space is absolutely essential - irrespective of the work profile. Our company makes sure most we make the best of technology as well as the infrastructure to keep our official documents secure. Apart from storing documents, these storage units are used to keep certain personal necessities handy."

"Storage space is important since it cuts the cost of leasing a space. Ample workstation storage also helps keep a tab on your work profile. A dedicated storage space also improves efficiency," shares Shetty.

Cabin cut
Thanks to innovative designs and revised HR policies, most companies today, have done away with cabins. Except for senior management personnel, most offices now encourage open work stations to save space, and encourage interactivity. Elaborates Shetty, "With property prices increasing, providing cabins to most professionals is expensive. Multiple cabins require larger work space, extra expenses, made to order furniture, cost of installation of ventilation, electric, acoustic systems, etc. Besides these, open workstations encourage team building and employee - boss rapport."

Theme thought
Workplace interiors speak a lot about the organisation, the brands, its products and what its focus is. And the most recent trend is to have a themed workplace. For example, a website designing firm will have their office designed keeping their work profile and company product in mind. There are countless examples of organisations doing innovative things with their office interiors, to better tie-in with the organisational and brand
personality.

Themes based interiors catch the client's attention as well as motivate employees to work. Planning themed workplace interiors not only motivates employees, but also encourages brand loyalty. Though a little cost oriented, themed workplace interiors prove efficient in the long run," ends Shetty.

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How to deal with your pet's mood swings

Have you ever observed unexplained crying, excessive lethargy, depression, anxiety etc. in your pet? If yes, then your pet could actually be suffering from mood swings. Shocked that even pets could suffer from these difficult-to-deal-with syndrome?

Tanya Kane, pet behaviourist, feels that mood swings happen either due to hormonal imbalance or physiological reasons. She says, "When they enter a new environment, or there's a new pet on board or a new baby or they get separated with the owner they are attached to, or there's a shift of residence, a change in family dynamics etc, they start sulking, grieving or get destructive and disinterested in food. In a state of such mood swings, the pet needs to get active again to build back his/her confidence."

Dogs are the most fascinating animals in the world. With them around, it's tough to feel lonely or depressed. But on their days of emotional upturn, more often than not because of the lack of the power to voice, they start feeling lonely and behaving in a weird way. Pet owner Medha Iyer says, "My dog is very sociable. But, suddenly one day she stopped eating. Then she started biting and acting moody with us. She wouldn't even play with her favourite toys. When we took her to the vet, we realised it was because I'd just delivered. Obviously, my attention had shifted from her to the baby. She couldn't accept that."

Just like humans, animals have extreme days and unexplainable emotions. When this happens, owners should get more involved with them, communicate with them and, if required go for alternative treatments. Dr Vinay Gore, owner of pet care centre, says, "Generally puppies are not affected by mood swings too much since they are very playful and their needs are fulfiled. When they react weirdly if unwell, I don't call them mood swings. During mating or when the male sees a female passing by, they might get aggressive. But just like humans, even pets have mood alleviators like anti-psychotics and ayurvedic medicines called behaviour modifiers for their hormone related mood swings."

The reasons of mood swings could be gender related. If it's a female, it could be when she's going through her monthly cycle. If it is male, this could happen if there's a female in the periphery and they want to copulate. But another huge reason for mood swings is Diwali as they have high sensitivity to noise. Trainer and dog owner Vicky Sharma says, "Dogs get very sensitive, anxious and destructive during Diwali. They curl up under their beds or have mood swings. I know of many people who communicate amazingly with their pets. When this happens, the pets feel more secure and confident. Medication is not the solution always." Dr Jeya Bharath, a veterinarian, says, "Diwali is the time when most pets go through mood swings as they are not used to crackers. We need to understand that dogs are very adaptive, but take time to come out of a bad phase. Also, pets understand our moods very well. We need to understand them too. I always encourage my clients to speak to pets looking directly into their eyes. This way they understand things better. Be patient and try to understand they they they need your time."

If a dog owner, remember that male dogs are more aggressive than females and the female ones are experts at that dirty look! Though it does not make them any less lovable, try to communicate well, understand them and love your pet when s/he acts weird. As they say, love breaks all boundaries and has the power to heal.

misha.paul@timesgroup.com

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Are you taking online chatting too seriously?

While meeting new people and even flirting online is fun and harmless, it's important not to go overboard in the virtual world

When Medha Kumar (name changed) started chatting with one 'Harry 68' from the United Kingdom, apparently, whom she met on a popular chatroom some years ago, she had no idea about who he really was, as opposed to who he claimed to be. The pictures he sent her of himself were of a suave-looking attractive man. Medha, an impressionable 23-year-old, was smitten by Harry.

"I had just emerged from an abusive relationship and, looking back, I guess I was ready to fall for anyone at that time. I withdrew from contact with my friends and the real world and turned to chatting on the internet instead. After almost a year, I got serious with this guy. It was later I found out that he was not what he claimed to be. I actually visited England to meet him. When I realized that he was someone with a shady past who had been taken to court in the past for running an illegal business, I backed off and vowed never to go the online route again," recalls Medha, whose parents are looking for a partner — a real-life one — for her.

But it's not only in one-to-one internet chatting sessions that people get burned. Ashish Verma is the moderator of his school internet bulletin board. He recalls how the group chat sessions between members would turn into arguments over petty issues. "I had started a message board for alumni of my school. For the first few weeks came messages aplenty. But then, people started bickering over off-topic discussions and soon, old animosities and grudges from school days started playing out. After a while, there was so much negative vibes flying around, that messages slowed to a trickle and soon stopped altogether. It's now dead for all practical purposes," says Ashish who still tries to rekindle interest in the message board.

Emotions do run high when chatting online, due to the very nature of internet chatting itself. It's just you and your computer and it's pretty easy to shut out the real world. Vishal Daswani, the moderator of another web board says that nothing kills an online discussion as much as flying tempers. He adds, "People tend to get too involved in the internet and misuse it. They might have had a bad day or whatever, but they end up taking out their frustrations online from behind the safety barrier of the internet."

It's important to remember, no matter how involved you get in a chat and however many hours you spend in front of the PC, that there's a difference between the real and the virtual. There are also people online who prey on single and lonely people and get them to reveal their credit card information or worse still, persuade them to send pictures of themselves. The World Wide Web is a vast place, and you never know where these might land up. So as the old adage goes, unless it's face-to-face, take it with a pinch of salt.

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Make 'pizzettes' and other mini foods

They say 'good things come in small packages' and this might hold true best for this one!

Little foods, which are mini versions of the usual, are fast-growing in popularity in terms of portion size and variety. And appetisers, entrees and desserts are fitting into the trend. In fact, mini gourmet doughnuts were recently being hailed as the new cupcake. Also, think sliders or mini burgers, micro cupcakes, pizzettes (which are mini pizzas), tiny donuts and more. If you're watching your weight, this may be just what you need. So far if you have had to turn away at the sight of your favourite food for fear of devouring the whole this little version can be just right. It allows indulgence minus the guilt. Nutritionists are in favour of the fad as it can be an effective tool to trick the mind into feeling satiated.

What people are trying
While the shrinking of food hasn't happened overnight, it's definitely soaring in popularity. Now, everything from tarts to larger pot pies and lasagna meals too, have gone smaller. The cute mini foods are popular in the West at weddings too, as people feel that guests like to feel that they are having a big meal in smaller bites. It also adds an unexpected fun twist to an event or party, feel planners. 'Mini' is also big on dessert menus in the way of little cookies, cupcakes and more.

Petite ideas for your next party
Mini quiches
Sliders
Mini frittatas
Lasagna cupcake
Baked waffles
Mini brownies
Cakepops (small ball of cake on a stick)

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Are you click happy? Read these books

Investing in a high-end camera isn't the only way to capture great clicks. We share four titles that teach basic photography techniques.

The Art of Photography: This classic by Bruce Barnbaum has been described as one of the most readable and understandable textbooks on photography. It is a compilation of numerous charts, graphs and tables and also has over 100 beautiful photographic illustrations in blackand-white and colour. Understanding Exposure, 3rd Edition: In an easy-tounderstand style, Bryan Peterson has demystified the complex concepts of exposure in his book and explained the relationship between aperture and shutter speed.

Updated with current technologies, more than 100 new images, and an all-new chapter, this edition will inspire you to take control of your settings for better photos. The Photographer's Eye: Published in 16 languages, author Michael Freeman's book teaches amateur photographers how to develop the ability to see and shoot great digital photographs. The book explores all the traditional approaches to composition and design, but it mainly addresses the new digital technique of shooting.

BetterPhoto Basics: In this title, Jim Miotke shares tips and tricks on how to improve photos immediately, no matter what camera you're using. You can learn how to compose knockout shots, make the most of indoor and outdoor lighting, and photograph popular subjects, from sunsets and flowers to complex family portraits.

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