Home  
Ladies Special

Things in Your Kitchen You Need to Get Rid of Right Now

    Things in Your Kitchen You Need to Get Rid of Right Now     To take the clutter out of your kitchen is something that you always want to do but then keep postponing it for sometime later. But here are a few tips that could help you organize your kitchen in a better way. Check these out.   We often don't realise that we own far more bags than the ones that we need. So, there are cases when you go shopping and end up bringing back home so many bags that we end up saving them up in a rack or somewhere in the kitchen, which in turn occupies space and makes the kitchen look cluttered. Hold on to a maximum of 10 and donate the rest. Or you could also leave some in your car, so that the next time you are out shopping you would not need to buy more bags.Then you won't be that person who gets to the supermarket and realizes your bags are tucked away in a cabinet at home.     A lot of us have a tendency to pick up stuff from the restaurant that we visit for an eat out, or get back home complimentary items from a hotel that we were put up in. These may seem to be really good and the best part is that they come at absolutely no cost. But, you're always going to get more the next time you order, so there's no point in stockpiling them. You would only end up choking your kitchen space.   Most professional chefs tend to manage with just three to five knives, so it is recommended that we also stick to the same number while at home. Chances are, you rarely use more than a knife. So stop stocking up just so that you might need them someday. Which might not arise at all. So, dispose off the knives that you thing are not sharp enough or for any reason you are not able to use them now.   This may be the case with most kitchens. There might be too many reusable and disposable water bottles lying in your cupboard. But the fact of the matter is that you would only need one bottle per person, and maybe one or two extra. So clean the rest of the bottles and donate or recycle them.          If you've been using one towel to do everything, then its time for you to throw it out and get a new one. Towels are the most commonly contaminated surface in the kitchen. It is recommended that you designate one for cleaning dry surfaces and one for wet surfaces and put both in the washing machine daily, especially if you've been doing heavy duty cooking at home.   ..Divya

Women Empowerment, really necessary

    Women Empowerment, Really Necessary?     Is it necessary to ask for a special Empowerment in Women? Why do such situations arise? Who forces such a state? All these and such are questions bombarding the minds of thousands of women across the world..because there still are Husbands, mostly husbands who control the lives of women in their household...Fathers are not so tough as they have love for the daughter at some corner..Husbands are the ones holding the lives and laughters of women, dominating them in various ways, intimidating them during some moments of the everyday life.   Women have a different life until they get married, they are independent, under the shelter of caring parents, in the same 'most-comfortable' atmosphere they grew up in. Everything changes soon as they get married..ofcourse, for some fortunate girls, things become so favorable after marriage, they meet the most-loving person and he takes care of her so wonderfully that she feels marriage is heavenly..and for most of us, marriages are the worst things that could happen..every such woman knows it, still endures for years, looking at the helplessness of the parents or their emotional status, and later at the innocent faces of her children and continues to long suffer...and the husband takes her for granted, the feeling of 'what will she do..nothing!' is his strength.     As someone rightly said 'A woman changes for her husband,becomes a mother to his children, they even carry his surname, not hers, she endures birth pangs and almost dies during labor, she takes care of his household and family too...he doesnot even care to show her some compassion, neither empathy when she is tired. He even has complaints with her cooking, every now and then..he doesnot want her to mingle with others anymore, he is so envious of her social relationships..she is left with no friends and no proper contact with her own family. She is capable of taking up a job but sacrifices for her kids, and stays home doing the dishes, cleaning the house..he never shows any respect for her sacrificial decisions. Finally, he says 'you did nothing for me!, or 'get out of my sight!'. Does she need such a treatment? Where is that most loved daughter of her parents?   Yes, we need Empowerment as long as there are husbands like this, we need a constant voice backing us up that things will be fine, that she is not alone, that there is someone to care for her...if that comes spiritually, then it is the most blessed and fruitful endurance. She needs diversion from the issue but how she finds it is the question...will the husband allow it, how will she even find some relief without any shame from him...this is an article not for the women but for every man to read..and learn not to live a life like the husband in this story..there are similar stories of husband suffering in the hands of a wife..even in this modern era, are such bitter relationships necessary? Can't  there be 'wonderful marriages' and 'amazing couples'. Empowerment, is it necessary?!   ..Prathyusha

Why should we cook to please

  Why should we cook to please ?     Ladies are expected to be good cooks...alright , alright..! I understand, they cook so well that you get impressed...but what about others who maynot be able to cook exactly the same way you expect them to cook..they may have been trained differently, or their cultural roots have different taste preferences that dont match with yours, or they never had an oppurtunity to cook or any need to learn and cook on their own. Why should one judge the other's cooking abilities ? Men dont get evaluated for their cooking skills...however, those Men who are excellent cooks are famous, among friends, relatives, and some at a competitive level.   When women start to judge, they become so fussy..it is no ones business to comment on someone else's abilities, whatever field it be. Others may possess better skills than you in some discipline, and you may fail miserably when compared to them..but, we dont want to keep quiet...comment, comment and comment until the other person realises and feels so helpless and unworthy. Everyone starts at Level 0.. No one is an expert in the first step. When two people meet, it is obvious that they either gossip about others, praise themselves or argue, very rarely, they talk about good things that dont involve negative emotions or others..there are very few people who dont touch others' personal matters and who get offended when others try to meddle with their emotions or personal topics.       Such a discussion tampers ones self esteem, motivation and encouragement.. They tend to feel demotivated, hurt and maynot want to meet others due to the fear of the same insult being repeated. Cooking, especially makes a good cook famous and a bad cook so disappointed. It is the character of the person that is important. If a person doesnot sit and brag about his/her own traits, then it is a harmless, selfless person...if somewhere ornthe other, one brags about her cooking skills or something good about her, then she either wants others to praise her always or she is a dominating personality who is ready to trample others around whenever a chance comes.   This is the same situation between Mother-in-laws and the Daughter-in-laws..mostly the latter group are targeted for their lack of cooking skills..is it mandatory to be trained in cooking to get married, or is it a gentle, good looking girl that thet seek ?! They say, days have changed, Men are friendlier with wives in these modern day life..but there are still quite some Men who compare their Mom's excellent cooking skills to the newly wed wife's rookie skills...between some couples, this torture continues for years. I wonder who made this statement 'the way to a man's heart is through his stomach..feed him well, and he is yours forever...this might be yester years' dream but it is the character of a man..if he is crooked, then even though you feed him well, he will comment on your cooking skills still.   Comparing ones cooking skills need not be important when friends meet...the other person maynot have been keeping healthy, or had an emotional problem that day...that she couldnot cook to impress..how much you write, how much you try to educate others...this cooking comparison game has been there in the families, among acquaintances, at work places, ...everywhere. Pride is so bad. When two praise each other in private, it is better..rather than praise eachother while the third person is around, may trigger issues and you will but loose good friends, the so-called good cooks !! ..Prathyusha

HEALTHY FOODS FOR WOMEN

  HEALTHY FOODS FOR WOMEN     Nuts   Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts and peanuts can certainly contribute to the well health of women. Every nut mentioned above have their own benefits. While Almonds are rich in Vitamin E, Walnuts are loaded with Omega 3 fatty acids that keep your heart healthy. Peanuts are abundant with fibre and protein. Hazelnuts contain arginine, an amino acid that controls blood pressure. So, in a nutshell! Nuts are certainly useful for you unless you have a troubled record with diabetes or cholesterol in which case your doctor would suggest the limitations on the intake of nuts.   Milk   Modern way of living has left us with less time and space to be under sun. This would certainly deprive us from the benefits of acquiring Vitamin D naturally from the sunlight. Fortified milk would be the best way to gain much needed Vitamin D. Vitamin D not only helps the body to absorb calcium that’s present in the milk but has its own benefits. Vitamin D along with Calcium is said to reduce the occurrence and severity of osteoporosis- a malfunction of bones that affects most of the women in their middle age. Vitamin D is also thought to have the chances of working against tumours in breast and colon.   Eggs   It might be true that egg yolk contains huge levels of cholesterol. But it’s a rich source of nutrients as well. The ‘choline’ present in egg yolk has the chances of preventing breast cancer. Lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants that were present in yolk were believed to prevent Macular degeneration. A degeneration of vision as you get old. Having your breakfast with an egg would let your stomach feel fulfilled and thereby decrease the craving for more food. But beware of the yolk if your cholesterol levels are on rise.   Beans   We normally ignore beans though every health journal portrays them as perfect foods. Beans are known to be rich in fibre which would be the best antidote for cholesterol. They also contain ‘protease inhibitors’, which may help protect against breast cancer. Beans are rich in nutrients and their regular intake is thought to have positive affect in controlling type 2 diabetes and blood pressure.   Spinach   It’s not just Popeye who gets energy from Spinach! It contains huge amount of Lutein, which keeps your artery walls clear from cholesterol. Vitamin K and Magnesium present in Spinach is known to be helpful in case of osteoporosis. Particular mention should be made about the presence of iron in Spinach. Most women suffer from anaemia which could be cured through sufficient intake of iron that’s present in Spinach. Spinach is known to contain cancer-fighting agents called methylene dioxyflavonol glucuronides. The intake of Spinach is highly recommended during pregnancy as it contains folete... an essential part of folic acid. These are just a few mentionable foods that are known to do good for women. However the list is not all inclusive and you can add foods such as Flaxseeds, Yogurt, Oats etc. A bit of research could certainly lead you to foods that are worthy to be included in your daily cuisine. - Nirjara.

Side effects of pregnancy-Swollen feet and Vericose veins

  Side effects of pregnancy-Swollen feet and Vericose veins     Swollen feet are not a big concern when they happen during pregnancy...Edema, as it is called, Swollen feet, occurs due to increased fluids and increased pressure on the uterus, those fluids tend to create swelling in the feet, thanks to the law of gravity ! Mostly starting to occur between week 21-27 and goes on until the day of delivery...for some, the swelling continues and raises concerns to the medical staff too, as it happened in my case...they had to apply tens to my highly swollen feet, but the next day of delivery, swelling reduced and left.     A matter of concern is when swelling keeps increasing and creates restless feet, it is when the Gyneacologist has to be informed and met if asked to. During every prenatal visit, they check the blood pressure rate and urine levels too, but if the levels are high compared to the normal range, then it is considered as Preeclampsia and needs immediate attention as it is harmful for both Mother and Child. Otherwise, in a normal situation, a sudden weight gain during pregnancy may lead swelling in the feet, and that is the reason why, along with purchasing maternity clothes, women need to consider buying new 'maternity' footwear as the feet are usually swollen or swell atleast once for many. If they still neglect and try to fit those tired feet in their old footwear, they tend to create a burning sensation or tired feet.   Certain good habits inculcated during pregnancy help avoid swollen feet, or atleast offer relief... Keep feet elevated mostly Donot stand or sit for long hours Never sit in a crossed-legs position Drink lots of water Use the right kind of footwear to fit those swollen feet/purchase new pair during pregnancy Follow prenatal exercise routines that are safe, regularly Avoid tight fit dresses, leggings or stockings Sleep, turning towards the left side Keep a control on the salt intake, based on the Doctor's recommendations Soak those swollen feet in hot water tub for soothing   Vericose veins are the not-so-desired side-effects of pregnancy...again, not happening to many women. The increased production of blood necessary for two beings, The excess pressure the uterus puts on pelvic blood vessels are the two conditions that come together to create a vericose veins situation. They are perfectly harmless for the Mother and child but Mom is left with these undesired veins on her legs and feet even after delivery as a memory. They may itch and swell after long periods of standing and donot allow Mom to wear her old shorts or Dresses without her permanent stockings ! Not matter what, these ugly veins and swollen feet...nothing can stop her from bringing her dream child to life, safely !   ..Prathyusha

THE QUEEN’S HEALTH SECRETS

      Newspapers across the world have been mentioning the 90th birthday celebrations of Elizabeth II, the queen of United Kingdom. What could be her health secret that has given a rare opportunity to be healthy even in her 90’s? Watch out!   Though queen always had a choice to smoke, she had never gone too close to the habit. She might have certainly been affected by the fact that her father is a big smoker and has died in his young age due to the habit. Queen of course has the habit of drinking, but with a limit. Even a second peg is said to be rare for her.   Queen would either have to be a guest or host for a dinner party quite often. But she is known to eat less. She is also keen to avoid too many carbohydrates in her food. She is against processed foods and wishes to include salads in her dinner course.   Queen is said to have brought up in a playful environment. Dancing and horse riding used to be a part of her daily life. Even today, she is said to prefer walking and horse riding, which lets her to deal with strenuous journeys that were to be made. The queen is known to maintain good sleeping habits throughout her life. She is careful to have at least 7 hours of sleep at night, and would wake up early in the morning. There isn’t any need to reiterate the importance of good sleep in one’s life!   Elizabeth is the queen of United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. She obviously has to be in symphony with all those governments. Apart from the political issues, queen has faced a lot of trauma in her life such as the death of Diana. She did master the art of coping with stress that led her through every such agony.   Experts might be saying that pets are the best stress busters, and the queen was probably aware of the saying. She is fond of dogs and known to love a particular breed of dogs named ` Pembroke Welsh Corgis.’ She would spend much time with them and often walk around the palace with them.   Queen Elizabeth fell in love with Prince Philip (Duke of Edinburgh) in her early teens. They both got married in 1947 and believe it or not... they lived happily thereafter! Prince Philip is now 94 years old. In a culture where divorce and separation isn’t rare, it’s interesting to note that the couple has kept their marriage vows alive. A steady marriage is said to have added up to her health.   Queen is a member of church and has often declared her faith in Christianity. `I, like so many of you, have drawn great comfort in difficult times from Christ's words and example’ said Elizabeth in one of her Christmas message. She is also a patron to over 600 organisations and charities. She has even helped a few foundations to raise charities. Her charity and devotion might have certainly helped her to be in solace. ..Nirjara

Ten things to know about Dipa Karamkar

  Ten things to know about Dipa Karamkar     Dipa, the ultimate gymnast hails from the North Eastern state of India Tripura, which is far behind development. But that didn’t stop her from reaching the skies. She started practising gymnastics when she was just 6 years old. Dipa and her father knew that they had a goal to achieve in life.   Dipa had flat foot, which was thought to be unsuitable for gymnastic movements. She along with her coach Bisbeshwar Nandi had to work hard to get a curve in her feet.Dipa has immense confidence in her coach Bisbeshwar Nandi and thus he is her only coach till now. She knew that he is her best guide.   In 2007, she won the Junior Nationals in Jalpaiguri, when she was just 14 years old, and that was just the beginning. Since 2007, Dipa has won 77 medals at various levels. 67 of them are gold!   Dipa was one of the five women in gymnastic history who has achieved a feat called PRODUNOVA. This feat consists of a front handspring and two front somersaults. Produnova is so dangerous that some people were even demanding to ban it. Because one can always land on his neck and break his spine while trying to achieve Produnova. But Dipa just wanted to achieve the feat.   In 2014, Dipa became first Indian women to grab a medal in Commonwealth Games, by winning a bronze at Glasgow, and she was second Indian after Ashish Kumar to achieve the task.   After her victory in Commonwealth Games, people began to recognise the ability of Dipa. Even the sports icon Sachin Tendulkar lauded her for her achievement, and said that he was proud of her.   In 2015 Dipa became the first ever Indian to qualify for the final stage of World Artistic Gymnastics Championship. She missed the bronze by a feather by remaining at the fifth position.   Dipa now creates another page in the history of Indian sports by getting qualified for the upcoming Olympics in Brazil. She would now be the first Indian women to enter a gymnastics competition in Olympics and would also be the first Indian to achieve the feet after a gap of 52 years. It was only in 1964 that Indian gymnasts were qualified to enter Olympics. ..Nirjara.

Start a Blog for your talent !

  Start a Blog for your talent !   Spending the whole day running errands, behind kids, serving family...then you realise you havenot even sat for few minutes at a stretch the whole day !! Wondering if we are getting enough time for ourselves..ladies ?! Same thoughts come to me too..writing this article at close to 1'o clock in the midnight..if feel why cant we join hands with close friends or just single handed to start a blog..mostly to share our talents..of cooking, crafts, family welfare and childcare...sometimes to vent out our frustration after a long 'every'day. Some of the talented lot started a few groups on a famous social website but i wonder if such networking websites allow these on longterm basis.     Blog space is a wonderful platform to even start earning with just our talent in writing and sharing expertise and experiences. If you dont think you have any such specialities, then just gather up all those ladies and make videos or ask them to share their talents in your blog. Starting a blog is pretty inexpensive, but ends up fetching you some income through advertisements and useful marketing links. The web has tons of helpful notes on how to start a blog of your own...be it one with your own and independent title or one that has a domain attached to it.   Some write about the movies they have watched, reviewing their opinions..some on music releases and some on community services, pet care, nature and safeguarding it for future generations, eco-farming, ....just browse the web and you will be surprised to see the variety of blogs people across the globe have created with their own interests and passions.  This is a perfect medium to shout out to everyone around that you also have a talent of your own and find people with similar interests responding to your blog, posting their comments and compliments, you can share your daily thoughts and feelings too with them for a great support from outside the home and family. Blog and you will rock !! ...Prathyusha

Flip Flop Slippers and Crafts

  Flip Flop Slippers and Crafts     Its Spring already and Summer is soon arriving in India..temperatures getting hotter by the day and all the shoes bid goodbye, atleast for the casual looks. Flip flops peek out of the shoe closet and they are quite affordable to buy two pairs each...in that case, why not do something interesting with them. Slippers come so handy..(i mean so footy!!) to run errands, some are for the rough use and some for the bike rides and catching up with friends types ! Giving a makeover to those simple flip flop slippers might be worth it if you like flauting your pedicured feet. Decorating flip flops and decorating with flip flos is what we are going to see today.. Decorating a simple looking flip flop pair is so easy, if you have some artificial flowers at home..bigger or smaller..all we need is     A pair of slippers Strong permanent glue like Fevicol or Elmers Glue All, one that is water-resistant Few plastic flowers in the colors of your choice Pair of scissors     If you want to spruce up a currently using pair of slippers, then wash and brush the straps (band) thoroughly to remove dust. A new pair is easier to decorate, as we can just start off glueing the flowers. Before that, with Scissors, cut the stems of the flowers completely and line up the flowers on another surface to decide the pattern you want. Once ready, start applying dots of glue on the rubber straps of one slipper. Paste the flowers carefully, pressing each one clasping them to the strap, repeating the same with the other strap..make sure to use the glue that is made for rubber-plastic-fabric surfaces, as the straps are rubber, flower buds are plastic and flowers are usually made with satin or other fabric. When dry, your decorated slippers are ready to flaunt !! See what some DIY Experts have done with their creativity...taken simple Flip flops to the wall..using them as Cup-Plant Holders and Towel Hooks ! Can Flip Flops become a piece of art too !! ..Prathyusha

Canopy Beds for The Princesses

  Canopy Beds for The Princesses   Decorating bedrooms for girls is one interesting part of home design. Girls come as color packages...right from Day 1 of Birth..everything can be colorful, with great patterns and designs..can Boys have this pleasure too ?! no chance ! And thats the reason buying gifts or dresses for girls is easier, with lots of options..similarly decorating their bedrooms can be fun filled. There are so many color options, design choices..mostly ofcourse, will be Pinks and Purples ! Still, we can setup colorful Window curtains , even the furniture can be colorful and stylish. One such are the Canopy beds, to give it a Princess-Royal feel...such is their forever passion for Princesses.    Got a canopy-four poster bed or not, you can buy a hoola hoop or a circular curtain fixture and setup a canopy easily, just gotta have some carpentry skills or a skilled companion. Buy some long netted fabric or sheer curtains, and hang them from the ceiling height, there it is, that Royal...dreamy Canopy bed !! If you dont want it for a bed, them just create a corner to read books, with few pillows and hang the canopy above...or set up a canopy in the playing zone as a cozy spot....any space or any purpose for the kids, canopy theme is lots of fun...even grown-ups feel like crawling into one cozy canopy and start to read a story book or simply dose off !!     - Prathyusha Talluri

'బ్యాగుం'డాలి బాగుండాలి

  'బ్యాగుం'డాలి బాగుండాలి                     ఆడవాళ్ళకి ఎని బ్యాగులున్నా ఎక్కడికైనా బయలుదేరాలి అంటే వెంటనే ఏది పట్టికెళ్లాలో అని బ్యాగ్ కోసం వెతుకుంటారు. ఉన్న బ్యాగుల్లో ఏది సెలెక్ట్ చేసుకోవాలో అనేది మరో సందేహం. సందర్భానికి తగ్గట్టుగా బ్యాగు లేకపోతె కాస్త ఇబ్బందిగానే ఉంటుంది కదా. ఇప్పుడు మార్కెట్లోకి ఎన్నో కొత్త బ్యాగులు వచ్చాయి. అవేంటో చూసి ఎలాంటి బ్యాగులు ఎప్పుడు వాడాలో తెలుసుకుందాం.     హోబో బ్యాగ్స్ : ఇవి పొడుగ్గా ఉంటాయి. ఫ్రెండ్స్ తో షాపింగ్ కి వెళ్ళేటప్పుడు ఇలాంటివి ఎంతగానో ఉపయోగపతాయి. వెడల్పు పట్టితో చూడటానికి స్టైల్ గా కనిపించే ఈ బ్యాగ్ లో ఒకేసారి  చాలా  వస్తువులు పడతాయి. భుజానికి తగిలించుకోవటం వల్ల పెద్ద బరువుగా కూడా అనిపించదు.రేటు కాస్త ఎక్కువగా అనిపించినా అవి వేసుకుని బయటకి వెళితే అందరి కళ్ళు ఆ బ్యాగ్ ల మీదే ఉంటాయి.       టోటే బ్యాగ్స్: ఉద్యోగానికి  వెళ్ళే ఆడవాళ్ళూ వేసుకోటానికి అనువుగా ఉండి  స్టైలిష్ గా కనపడతాయి ఈ బ్యాగ్ లు. లెథర్ తయారయ్యే ఈ బ్యాగ్ అఫిషియల్ లుక్ తీసుకొస్తుంది.     సాట్చెల్ బ్యాగ్స్ : చదువుకునే అమ్మాయిలకి, ఉద్యోగం చేసే ఆడవారికి అందుబాటులో ఉన్న మరో ఆప్షన్ ఈ సాట్ చెల్ బ్యాగ్. ఒకే పట్టి ఉండి కొంచెం  పొడుగ్గా ఉండే ఈ రకం బ్యాగ్ ఇంపార్టెంట్ పేపర్స్, ఇంకా ఫైల్స్ పెట్టుకోవటానికి బాగా ఉపయోగపడుతుంది. దీనిని బండి మీద వెళ్ళేటప్పుడు అడ్డుగా కూడా తగిలించుకునే వీలుంటుంది.     బకెట్ బ్యాగ్స్: చూడటానికి బకెట్ లాగా కింద వెడల్పుగా పైకి వచ్చేసరికి సన్నగా ఉండే ఈ రకం బ్యాగులు ఫాషన్ కి పెట్టింది పేరుగా కనిపిస్తాయి. కాలేజీ లో ఫంక్షన్ టైములో మేకప్ సామగ్రిని తీసుకెళ్ళటానికి బాగుంటుంది. ఎక్కడైనా పిక్నిక్ కి వెళ్ళేటప్పుడు కూడా తీసుకెళ్లచ్చు.     క్లచ్ బ్యాగ్స్: హేండిల్ లేకుండా క్లచ్ ఉండే ఈ బ్యాగ్స్ ఈవెనింగ్ టైములో పార్టీలకి వేసుకుని వెళ్ళచ్చు. వెడల్పుగా, అందంగా కనిపించే ఇలాంటి బ్యాగులు మీకు మరింత అందాన్ని తెచ్చిపెడతాయి.     బ్యాక్ ప్యాక్ బ్యాగ్స్: ఇవి ముఖ్యంగా కాలేజీ స్టూడెంట్స్ కి చక్కగా సరిపోయే బ్యాగ్ లు. రెండు భుజాలకి తగిలించుకోవచ్చు  లేదా ఒక వైపు వేలాడతీసుకోవచ్చు. ఎన్ని వస్తువులు లేదా పుస్తకాలు పెట్టిన ఎలాంటి ఇబ్బంది లేకుండా హాయిగా హేండిల్ చెయచ్చు.     స్లింగ్ బ్యాగ్స్: తాడులు పొడుగ్గా వేలాడుతూ చిన్నగా ముద్దుగా కనిపించే ఈ టైప్ బ్యాగ్ లు ఎలాంటి సందర్భంలో అయినా వేసుకోటానికి బాగుంటాయి. హోటల్స్ కి వెళ్ళేటప్పుడు పెద్దగా తీసుకెళ్ళాల్సినవి ఉండవు కాబట్టి ఇలాంటి బ్యాగ్ లు వాడుకోవచ్చు.     రిస్ట్లేట్ బ్యాగ్స్: వీటి పేరులోనే ఉంది ఇవి మడమకి తగిలించుకునే బ్యాగ్స్ అని. హేండిల్ గాని క్లచ్ గాని కాకుండా ఎక్కువశాతం జిప్ మూమెంట్ తో సౌకర్యంగా ఉంటాయి. కేవలం డబ్బులు కార్డ్స్ పెట్టుకోవచ్చు.        ఇలా మార్కెట్ లో దొరికే ఎన్నో రకాల బ్యాగుల్లో  మన స్టైల్ కి తగ్గట్టుగా మనకి సరిపోయేవి చూసి మనం ఎంచుకోవచ్చు.                                                                                                             ...కళ్యాణి

Brass Vase into a Jute Side Table

  Brass Vase into a Jute Side Table     Some of us still have atleast one or two brass vases at home, either lying in the attic or standing in a corner, not matching the decor in an old fashioned style. I brought home this huge tall vase from my Mom's, thinking it would match my decor but to my surprise, it ddnt match atall, sametime, it started looking so odd...i watched it every day thinking of a reason to get rid of it...and you know, one day i thought of giving it a new avatar! I had a big fat roll of jute twine lying at home..and Lo, this was the final outcome, a side table cum pot stand for my indoor plants !!     We need: An old metal vase A big roll of jute or any natural finer twine Hot glue gun 15-20 Glue sticks based on the size of the vase Acrylic color in desired shade A wide painting brush and a Sponge dabber Wooden plate m-Seal Procedure: Wipe clean the surface of the vase. Let dry of any dampness. With streaks of hot glue, start pasting the jute twine layer above layer. I made circular design patterns with jute twine and pasted them at the bottom and center of the vase to give it an interesting look. You can just keep the simple line-by-line look if making separate circular patterns is time taking for you.     This takes few hours or coupele of days time to finish covering the vase with the twine completely. If you want to keep it jute color as-is, then you don't have to color it. I wanted a dark wooden finish to match the other corner tables i already have, so i bought a Terracota Brown shade Acrylic color and painted it completely brown. Using m-Seal, attach the Wooden plate to the top of the vase, as a table top. Give it a day, for the paint and the wooden plate to fix and dry. The most awaited, side table cum pot stand is finally ready for display and use, Mine flaunted itselves with a cute plant on top... ..Prathyusha

That Friendly Ladies Nite

  That Friendly Ladies Nite   We all have friends and like spending time with a good group of them. Even one single odd person spoils the fun. In this quest to find the right friend with whom our mentality and frequency matches, we come across quite a few and select one or two. Luckily, if you friends happen to be in the same city or the same community, we tend to feel we can meet up anytime or anyday but with our busy personal schedules, it is so difficult to meet eachother atleast once a month. I wonder how some ladies keep inviting and hosting kitty parties, get-togethers and such every month. If you are in that loop, it gets easier but once you come out of that group due to jobs, schools and life, 'Sorry, can't make it to the party, i am caught up' is one frequent answer we hear, even from ourselves. Too much of running behind life makes us so frustrated that we want to spend lone time or some time with good friends, atleast an hour of not having to run behind kids or feed them if they are younger, etc. during such times a Ladies Nite is the best. Arrange one at ones place or a good not so crowdy restaurant. At home, there is no time limit, but restaurants might offer all the service without having to serve food or clean dishes.     Inviting new girls to make friends with them depends on your reason to meet. If you are in a very light mood to spend joyous moments chatting and catching up on general matters, each person can invite a new friend into the group..but if you want to meet your bestie or a group of close ones to discuss a personal or common matter, then having new friends may not be a good idea. You would not be able to discuss private matters with them around and they might feel left out if you all sit together or gather up in twos to chat. With old friends, there need not be any activities, specially....chat, chat , chat and chat...hours would be enough..depends on everyone in the group. If inviting new friends, it is always good to have one, two games and some ladies crafts for fun, or a potluck. A common dress code or a theme for dressing up makes it more interesting and exciting. Coordinating the event is important...someone who is good with communicating, social media follow ups can do it better. Making sure everyone is informed, and coordially invited is the key. However, close friends dont need such formalities. Some invite a friend who just started her home-based jewellery or Costume business or someone who markets Tupperware..these parties are a good platform to introduce such oppurtunities..yet, they are a success only when everyone in the group is informed of the agenda and they all like to attend..let it not be a strange surprise. And if you are meeting after a long time, make sure to take atleast few pictures for a great memory..send the photos to others in the group in few days using creative photoframes or make crafty frames while you all chat and use them for sharing photographs. A 'Ladies Only' party is the best...you can talk without having to bother about kids or husbands !! ..Prathyusha

Wishes on Women's ( special article )

Wishes on Women's ( special article )   A soul in grief, cries. Why am i a woman ?! When i speak, why does the society comment and raise an eyebrow? When i want to be independent, why do people think i am rebellious? Can't i be given a little more importance? Can't i dream of a happy life? My life was worryfree until marriage happened, why did it change completely? What harm did i do, that they dominate me? How can my parents who loved me so much give me away in marriage ? So many questions bombarding. Just touch a sorrowful soul of a hurt woman and her tears tell you a tale. On the other hand, there are others who are happier with a caring husband, a helpful family, their dreams come true and they achieve alot in life...some are very successful in careers and some are content with wonderful families on both sides.   They say in this modern society, super fast times, women have become smarter and bolder, yet there are still those who have no support from parents, who are emotionally sensitive and think of both sides being affected by their drastic decisions and hence, settle to be dominated and suffer with no individuality. Only way things can change and be better is when those husbands realise to treat their respectible wife just the way they treat their Mothers or Sisters and give them the much needed affection and attention. Ladies: Be more responsible and dont try to dominate too...probably, these Men are just very cautious of not being over ridden by a wife,...we have tried to be nice and gentle, just be the same. You are on the right path!! Marriage cannot be in harmony with the slightest diversion..both husband and wife should be good to eachother. However, there are wives who have made their respectible husband's life miserable...they donot let them live their life happily...when there is no trust in marriage, it fails. Self-realisation and  correction should be the Manthra followed..if not, God is to be feared the most and if He ever punished the wrong one instantly, thats the only way people would learn to be good !! On this International Womens Day, i wish Women who are still crying silently behind closed doors and in the closets, not being able to change a rude and chauvinistic husband, get redemption quickly and to them those sorrowful days would be a dream of the past and that they see brighter and happier days...how it happens is all in the hands of God Almighty!! I wish for a miracle for all women on this Women's Day !!     ...Pratyusha Talluri

Changing Lives... Forever

Changing Lives... Forever   1)“Teaching is more than imparting knowledge, it is inspiring change.”- William Arthur Ward This holds true in the case of Vimla Kaul, an 80 yr old teacher from Delhi.   2) Staying home doing nothing was never an option for Vimla post her retirement, she started changing the lives of underprivileged children of Madanpur Khadar in Delhi, for better.   3)A visit to the village around 1995 motivated Vimla and her husband to do their bit for the betterment of people living there. there was no looking back as she went from strength to strength, starting from 5 students it grew to 110 students.   4)Faced many hurdles to initially get a place to teach kids As she could not afford to build a school she moved from one park to another teaching the kids in the open lawns.she finally moved to MGD park where we taught for 15 years.     5)Thanks to Malviya Trust’s support, Vimla now has a school building with four rooms where she teaches students up to Class2, Vimla, now gets financila help from friends and family in the form of donations.   6)After all her struggle Vimla proudly confides that, “These children are very talented. They just need support and guidance. If they are given the same opportunities and facilities like mainstream kids, they too can do wonders, Kudos to her Spirited thought  

Bouncing back to life- Prabhasini Pradhan

Bouncing back to life- Prabhasini Pradhan     1)Prabhasinipradhan ,President of the Kalinga Network for People Living with HIV?Adis   2)Prabhasini Pradhan, the president of the KNP+ has been to hell and back. She can never forget the fateful day on which her husband of three years, who was working in a factory in Mumbai, was tested HIV positive.   3)But in spite of all this she Never has any regrets about reveling her identity for the sake of spreading awareness on the disease and fighting the stigma attached to it.   4) Over a decade ago a time where, In the rural heartlands, stigma and rumors ensured that HIV positive people were disgraced and driven out of their homes and communities, Pradhan’s in-laws forced her to leave their home . She tried to find work to make ends meet and ensure a decent childhood for her daughter.   5) Met a counselor at an Integrated Counseling and Testing Centre (ICTC) and she helped Prabhasi deal with the trauma she was going through. That encounter led to the formation of the KNP+ that was formally registered in 2006. “Initially, due to the stigma there were only seven members who came forward and enrolled and Prabhasi was the only woman. Now there are over 5,000 members, including thousands of women.   6) The Kalinga Network’s main agenda has been to create awareness about the disease, especially among positive people, by sharing with them essential information regarding government schemes, health and education facilities and other benefits. 7) Pradhan, who lives in Bhubaneswar with her daughter, admits that though initially she was depressed at being HIV positive, she doesn’t feel that any more. In fact, she thinks her condition has proved to be a boon. “God has given me an opportunity to help and understand other positive women and fight for their rights,” she observes with a smile. According to her, there are many busy days and months ahead of the Kalinga Network as a lot needs to be done by way of creating awareness and building platforms for positive people.  

Her World is Much Beautiful

Story of a visionary Woman   1)She was told she needs help, and that she cant handle her own life and walk with out support .But she rose to a place where she can not only take care of her own self but, but helps others too. Meet Tiffany, the woman with visual disability who is visionary all by herself.. Meet Tiffany.. a 26-year-old teacher, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and she is blind. Being blind is the last piece of information you need to know about her because she has created many more powerful identities for herself than just being blind   2) Tiffany was all of 12 years when her mother passed away who was like a back bone in her life. Those were tough times and Tiffany had to gather her courage and learn to live life by herself.   3) Neither the regular schools, nor the blind schools that Tiffany went to, had bothered to teach her how to handle these basic needs. She recalls that sometimes she and other blind children even wore their clothes inside out. They cared little about their physical appearance. When Vinita Akka began to take an interest in Tiffany, the seeds for change were sown. Tiffany started dressing well and began to learn to manage her day-to-day activities on her own.   4) Tiffany was so dependent on others.. She was always escorted by someone. The words “impossible” and “you can’t do it” continually echoed from the people around her. But Tiffany was determined that this would not continue. By the time she got a chance to break free and discover herself, she had spent 18 years of her life   5) After completing her schooling at Wellington, Tiffany moved to Thiruvananthapuram to pursue her Bachelors in English, It was here that her life changed. Tiffany held her father’s hand and started walking towards the Kanthari office. Its an organization that provides leadership training for individuals who are inclined to bring about social change.. That’s when Sabriye Tenberken, the co-founder of Kanthari, handed a white cane to Tiffany and urged her to walk on her own. And she neither stumbled nor looked back again     6) she decided to pursue a B.Ed. in Special Education from Sri Ramakrishna Mission Vidyalaya in Coimbatore. in 2012, well equipped with her education she started her project ‘Jyothirgamaya.’ The thought was if blind children cant come to school ,let the school reach them .   7) Through Jyothirgamaya, Tiffany and her team visit the homes of many blind people in Thiruvananthapuram. They teach them Braille, computers, personal grooming, and other life skills. They are taught to use the white cane and become mobile. Jyothirgamaya organizes camps across Kerala to mobilize the blind. It also organises outdoor activities, city tours and introduces new and unfamiliar activities.     8) She is just 26 but She is a woman with a vision beyond the ordinary. Kudos to her efforts and determination

మనకో..డే అవసరమా

మనకో ..".డే " అవసరమా   అసలు ఆడవాళ్ళకి సంవత్సరం లో తమని తాము గురిక్తించుకోవడానికి ఒక" డే "అవసరమా అని ఆలోచించా? అవసరమే అని తేలింధి..ఎంధుకంటారా ? మహిళల్లో ఉన్న (పెద్ద బలహీనతో బలమో తెలీధు కానీ ) ఒక ఆలోచనా విధానం ధీనికి కారణం. పిల్లలు ,భర్త...వీరే ప్రపంచం గా బ్రతికేస్తుంటారు  చాలా మంధి ఆడవాళ్ళు.(అత్తమామల గురించి మీరు అడక్కండి నేను చెప్పను) ఈ హడావిడిలో  తమని తాము తరచి చూసుకోవడం చాలా అరుదుగా చేస్తుంటారు. అంధుకే ఆడవాళ్ళు తమని తాము ప్రతి లిస్ట్ లో చివర పెట్టుకుంటూ వుంటారు.. "త్యాగమూర్తివమ్మా మహిళా..." అని పొగిడించుకోవడానికి కాకపోయినా అదో తృప్తి వారికి. అయితే ఇలా కొన్ని రోజులు పరవాలేధు ,జీవితమంతా ఉంటేనే ఇబ్బంధి  .. ఆలా ఉండిపోవడం వల్ల వారి ఆలోచన లో స్తబ్దత ,,ఆచరణలో నిర్లిప్తత , చోటుచేసుకుంటాయి. చివరికి అదే విసుగు, చిరాకు గా మారి బయటపడతాయి. అప్పటిదాక చేసింధి గుర్తించకపోయినా  ఈ విసుగుని చిరాకుని మాత్రం తెగ పట్టేస్తారు  బంధుజనమ్ . "ఏవిటి ఎప్పుడూ   నీకంత కోపం ?" అనేవారే కానీ "ఎంధుకు అంత కోపం వస్తోంధా? అని ఆరాతీసే నాధుడే ఉండడు..మీ బాధకి మిమ్మల్ని వదిలేస్తారు తప్ప ,బాధ అడిగి తెలుసుకునే ప్రయత్నం చెయ్యరు. ఇందులో  వారి తప్పు లేధు . వారు మిమ్మల్ని అడిగి చేయించుకోలేధు ,మీరే ప్రేమ ఎక్కువై  చేశారు . ఈ విసుగుని కోపాన్ని ఇలానే వదిలేస్తే చిలికి, చిలికి గాలి వానవుతుంది.మరి ఈ సమస్యనుంచి బయటపడటం ఎలా .? ధీనికో మార్గం ఉంధి... * ముంధు అందరి తో పాటు మీ ఉనికిని ఇష్టాన్ని కూడా గుర్తు పెట్టుకోండి * అందరి పనులు అడిగి మరి చేయండి,కానీ  వద్దంటే వదిలేయ్యడం  కూడా నేర్చుకోండి   * మీకంటూ ఒక జీవిత ధ్యేయం పెట్టుకోండి,ధాన్ని చేరుకోవడానికి దారులు మీరే వెతుక్కోండి. * రోజులో మీకంటూ కాస్త సమయాన్ని కేటాయించండి తప్పేం లేధు స్వార్ధం అంతకన్నా కాధు * మీ ఆరోగ్యాన్ని మీరే పట్టించుకోండి మీరు ఆరోగ్యం గా ఉంటేనే మీ ఇంట్లో అందరూ సంతోషం గా ఉంటారు అని గుర్తు పెట్టుకోండి * ఏదన్నా సాధించాం అనిపించగానే అందరూ సెహబాష్ అనాలని  కోరుకోకండి మెల్లిగా వారే నేర్చుకుంటారు * జీవితం మీధి ధాని పగ్గాలు మీ చేతిలోనే ఉండనివ్వండి . ఇంతే .. ఈ కాస్త గుర్తు పెట్టుకుంటే....చాలు ...ఉమెన్స్ డే కి మీరు ఎలాంటి నిర్ణయాలు తీసుకున్నా , అవన్నీ పాటించి తీరుతారు .

అసలు సిసలైన నాయకి

అసలు సిసలైన ‘ నాయకి ’   " ఆడవారు కే అసలు సిసలు నాయకత్వ లక్షణాలు వున్నాయి . "అందుకే మీ సంస్థల కి అధిపతులు గా ఆడవారిని పెట్టుకోండి ...ఇక ఆ తర్వాత మీ సంస్థ ఎదుగుదల ఎలా వుంటుందో చూడండి అంటున్నారు చెన్నై కి చెందిన ర్యాండ్ స్తాడ్ ఇండియా సంస్థ వారు . ఇప్పటికే ఆడవారి కి సారధ్య అధ్యతలు అపగిస్తే ఆ సంస్థలు విజయపధం లో దూసుకుపోతాయి అని ప్రపంచ వ్యాప్తం గా ఎన్నో అధ్యయనాలు నిరూపించాయి.  అయితే మన భారత దేశం లో మాత్రం ఇంకా ఆడవారికి కీలక బాధ్యతలు అప్పగించటం విషయం లో కొంత అలసత్వం కనిపిస్తోంది . ఈ నేపద్యం లో ర్యాండ్ స్తాడ్ సంస్థ వారు చేసిన అధ్యయనం మహిళలకు ఆనందాన్ని ఇస్తోంది . వీరు వివిధ సంస్థల ను పరిశీలించి , ఎందరితోనో మాట్లాడి , వారి అభిప్రాయలు తీసుకుని , వాటన్నిటిని క్రోడీకరించి ఆ  నిర్ణయానికి వచ్చారు . ఆడవారికి కీలక బాధ్యతలు అప్పగించిన సంస్థలు విజయపదం లో దూసుకెల్లటం వీరి అధ్యయనం లో గమనించారుట. సో.. నీ వల్ల  అవుతుందా ? అన్న ప్రశ్న ఎదురైతే నావల్ల  మాత్రమే అవుతుంది అని గట్టిగా చెప్పాలి .

Kegel Exercises for good

Kegel Exercises for good     Kegel exercises are Pelvic floor exercises. Mostly Doctors recommend them to Pregnant women, however, Kegels are absolutely beneficial for Women before and after Pregnancy too. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles around Uterus and Bladder. During pregnancy, these exercises are suggested for easy delivery and for easy recovery after childbirth, they can be done just by standing or sitting in a chair. Otherwise also, Kegels can be done in sitting, standing, walking and lying down position.   Kegels can control Urinary dysfunction or incontinence and bowel problems, and as these issues are common during pregnancy, they can offer relief. Generally too, women who face such problems due to Menopause or other health reasons, can start Kegel exercises for relief, after consulting and taking an advice from their Gynecologists. Kegels are also referred to as Pelvic floor exercises, as they target the Pelvic floor muscles mainly, which play a major role in the Excretory and Reproductive functions of the human body. Pelvic floor muscles are about 11 different kinds and their dynfunction is caused due to Delivery, Menopause, Pelvic surjery, severe Backaches, Asthma and chronic sneezing, over and under use of pelvic muscles, constipation, prostate gland surjery or even heavy-weight lifting or gymnastic activities and can be resolved with Kegels.   Kegel exercises are very simple, infact even Men can follow them for good health. For pregnant women, kegels can be easy done while sitting in a chair or in a standing position. Initially, a gynecologist or physical therapist can provide instructions on how to do these exercises. Sometimes, a device to calculate the number of occurances and time between each exercise is necessary till we get proficient with these exercises.   A simple kegel is to 1. Take a deep breath and exhale while you relax the abdomen, chest, thighs and buttocks 2. Contract the pelvic floor muscles as if you are controlling to urinate, hold the muscles for 5-10 seconds. 3. If you can feel the muscles in the pelvic region tight enough, it means you are doing it right. 4. Repeat it thrice, each time. Ten times a day. Practise inorder to tighten the muscles for 10seconds at a stretch, as you progress. 5. Dont do this kegel exercise while urinating, it stops the emptying of the bladder and can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction and urinary infections. 6. Make sure to not overdo these, beyond ten times a day and three times every attempt. Overdoing may lead to Muscle fatigue. 7. Positive effects start to show after a month of following kegels, helping one get rid of the pelvic floor issues. ...Prathyusha