The Skeleton Twins (2014)

The 'Skeleton Twins' is a story about twins, Milo (Bill Hader) and Maggie (Kristen Wigg). While Milo lives in LA, where he hoped to make it in the movies, Maggie stayed close to home. Living in Nyack, New York, Maggie has been married to Lance for about two years and they are trying to start a family. Having lost touch with each other the Fates finally intervene to bring the estranged siblings together. A suicidal Maggie is just about to pop a fistful of pills, when a phone call interrupts her. The call is from a hospital in LA informing her about Milo's suicide attempt. After a brief visit Maggie is able to convince Milo to head back to NY and live with her till he's stable.
After 10 long years the twins finally catch up with each other's lives .. a gay Milo admits to having failed to make it in the movies and is still single. Maggie admits to using birth control to avoid having a baby with Lance, while she sleeps around with the instructors for the numerous courses she is signed up for. What a mess!
But blood runs thicker than water and after putting aside their differences , the 'Skeleton Twins' are now stronger than ever.
The name conjured up images of a thriller of some sort. Surprise, surprise it turned out to be a great family movie. Now that's my kind of movie.

Paper Town (2015)

'Paper Town' got me thinking! So here I am, sharing my thoughts with you.
If I were not living where I do, having sessions with a shrink would be the norm. But where I come from, visits to one would be frowned upon. You would definitely be asked, 'something wrong with your head?' 😳 However, after a self-analysis I've come to a conclusion. The fact that I seem to love movies on journeys definitely says something. Am I searching for? or fleeing from? ... Mmm ... The truth! I feel I'm seeking answers to questions that are buried deep in my subconscious mind; all in an attempt to find my true and a better self. Wow! That's quite a mouthful, I tell ya! So let's see then - I've written about "About Schmidt", "The Darjeeling Limited", "Chef", "Up", "Eat Pray Love", "Little Miss Sunshine", "Jab We Met" ....
I know one thing - and it's way simpler, "I'm an explorer and totally dig finding new places". And that is so true! 😀

Anyway, over to the movie. Quentin has always been in love with his neighbor, Margo ever since the family moved in next door to his. While Quentin forsees his future as an oncologist, Margo isn't as sure of herself. She is an absolute mystery! Margo disappears on a whim leaving clues in her wake and appears when it suits her. But with graduation round the corner, one would think that Margo would think twice. So when she does the disappearing act, her parents aren't too bothered and know that she will make her way home when she's ready. However, Quentin is not as sure and he is soon seeking the clues that Margo has left behind. Quentin's search takes him to Algoe, Upstate New York. Algoe, is a small abandoned town with a population of only 1. What is Margo hoping to accomplish this time around?
The movie is Okay, at best! The term 'Paper Town' is intriguing and is what got me to the couch. And watch I did ... That's when I asked myself the questions I did! With 'a pinch of salt' this movie is digestible! 

About Schmidt (2002)

All through school and into our growing years, we are geared towards securing a sound future. As per the cycle of life school is followed by college, a job, marriage, kids ... But it doesn't end there now, does it? Then it's on to their education and when they fly the coop, you hope to take a breather. But the excitement is back. It's now their turn for marriage, grand kids ... Hopefully you've been there and done it all and you wisely chose your path. Because time is fragile and it skips by real quick. Before you know it, retirement will be upon you and time will slow down, enough for you to question your choices in life. Fingers crossed, you are happy with the ones you've made.
This is the story of Warren Schmidt's (Jack Nicholson) life. Warren showed great promise right from school and it followed him all through to college. He hoped to start a business of his own but with marriage and fatherhood came responsibility. So he chose to play it safe and worked as an Actuary for Woodmen of the World instead, a life insurance company. But like anyone else, Warren is now retired and boy, is it hard! He is getting himself aquainted with day-time television and through a commercial seeking sponsors for under-privileged children, Warren senses a new purpose. He finds himself a foster-father to Ndugu, a 6 year-old Tanzanian. However, Warren's life takes another twist when his wife passes on. After a period of moaning, Warren is on a mission. He embarks on a road trip from Nebraska to Colorado to visit his only daughter, Jeannie (Hope Davis) and hopefully convince her not to marry the water-bed salesman she is engaged to.
Take a journey with Warren in his RV as he sets out to find his purpose in life. Hilarious but deeply moving, this is Jack Nicholson at his best, I would say. 

Baby Driver (2017)

If scars could only speak and share their story of how they came to be, then Baby's would have a few to say. Young and innocent-looking, Miles (Ansel Elgort) a.k.a 'Baby', could pass off for just another college going, earphone donning student. But don't let looks fool you! Baby, though a man of few words, is a Maverick behind the wheel! He makes a living as a driver, but not just any driver mind you. He is the one to call if you want to make a clean and quick get-away. Baby isn't too happy doing what he does but for the debt that he can't wait to repay. And soon he has additional motivation to walk away when he finds love with Debora (Lily James), someone who shares his dream of taking off on the highway, with nothing but music for company. However, when you mix in tough circles the situation turns sticky and is a little like chewing gum, becoming hard to shake off.
The great musical with excellent soundtrack and some crazy driving sequences is the perfect cocktail in this action thriller. So if you are an adrenaline junkie, this movie is just for you.

Oh yeah! Move over Transporter, Baby Driver is in town. 

Something to listen to ...

Gharonda ~ "The Nest" (1977)

This story unfolds in Bombay, the land that draws people to it like a magnet. And our protagonists are this couple, Sudip (Amol Palekar ) and Chhaya (Zareena Wahab). Both come from middle-class families and make their acquaintance at the private firm where they work. After a brief courtship, Sudip and Chhaya hope to get married. However with Sudip living in a lodge with friends and Chhaya in a little tenement with two brothers and one of whom is married, the possibility seems distant. Her younger brother hopes to pursue his education in America someday, a wish that Chhaya aims to fulfil. Despite their responsibilities, their plans to settle down soon makes getting a home of their own a priority. Their dream seems a reality when Sudip hears of a friend who has booked an affordable flat which is still work-in-progress. In all hopes and throwing caution to the wind, the couple go to great lengths and gather the asking amount for a down payment. With stars in their eyes, they eagerly await the completion of their home. Unfortunately, Sudip gets the news that the owner has made off with the money, in the process crushing the hopes of many. With mounting frustration and during an argument Sudeep recommends Chhaya marries the aged but rich Mr. Modi, the owner of the firm they work in. Mr. Modi, a widower, has a sweet spot for Chhaya and she decides to take Sudip's advice and move on with her life. Can Bombay stand by it's reputation of being a place that fulfills dreams? Or could it be the opposite here!
A beautiful story of life as a middle-class citizen and it's struggles. The film is so rustic and real; and the songs ... great 👌! 

Butterflies are free (1972)

Gorgeous, vivacious and free-spirited Jill Tanner (Goldie Hawn) has just moved to San Francisco hoping to make it as an actress in the theatre. She is pleasantly surprised to see she has a good looking neighbor at her new apartment. So Jill invites herself over for coffee and makes her aquatintance. As Don Baker's (Edward Albert) story goes, he is a song writer and guitarist in search of prospects and is new to the city like Jill. He has lived a privileged and protected life thus far being the only son of authoress Florence Baker and hopes to make a place for himself in the world. He has one condition for his overly protective mother that she is not to pay her son a visit for a couple of months. Doesn't that seen odd? Well it is, but not once you are privy to the fact that Don is blind. This is an eye-opener for Jill who had never before encountered a blind person. She is charmed with how happy, independent and smart Don comes across despite all odds.
All is well till Florence drops in for a surprise visit to find both Don and Jill in their underwear. Soon Jill takes immense pleasure in shocking the condescending Florence and spills scandalous facts about herself, like for one how she was married and divorced after only 6 days at 19. Horrified and even more determined to lookout for her son's best interests, Florence is convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that Don would be safer back home with her. Will he ever be free to spread his wings like the butterflies he sings about? Let's hope so.
Goldie Hawn has delivered a witty performance. This fun movie is engaging and screams brilliant. A cast of three has brilliantly carried this film, leaving you delighted without a single bored moment. A new favorite.

The way I see it, if you want the rainbow 🌈 you gotta put up with the rain ⛈ ~ Dolly Parton

India is known for its monsoons and the pre-monsoons are a sight to behold. For most it could be intimidating, but if you take a step back and grab some seats, I can guarantee you the show is epic. It's one you wouldn't want to miss and this is Nature at it's very best. You'll just have to take my word for it.

So the summer has been surprisingly bearable, the temperature always hovering in the high 30 degree celcius (and that is bearable by Indian standards). I've been observing the varying angles of the sun's rays and you know earth is most assuredly spinning. Here we, the minions, are praying for a respite from the heat (Justin Beiber, who was performing in India last week, found it all too much and wrapped up ahead of schedule). As the time draws close for the seasons to change from the hot to the wet, nature must pass the baton. 

It's late in the evening and the clouds begin to roll in. At first it's a little inconspicuous, till you notice the strange orange hue to the sky. Then comes the strong winds, more like a dust storm that bathes everyone and everything in it's path. The trees are bent over and swaying, as though paying homage. All the while it's getting darker and I might add it' s a tad bit scary. As the sun sets, the sky is soon raven black, with no sign of the moon and not even a tiny bit of sparkle from the stars. But the darkness is soon broken by lightning streaking it's way across the dark canvas bringing along with it the rumble and tumble of thunder. The omnious growl which is distant at first is soon crashing and shaking the Earth in a ear splitting and teeth chattering symphony. The lighting is as bright as day and with the thunder together, it's mesmerizing. I would like to imagine, the Gods are in Vegas, rolling their dice and laughing at a private joke. And finally the rain drops fall, humongous drops, washing the earth. This sound and light show lasts for a good couple of hours. Then the lightning drops in it's intensity and the thunder begins to recede as both take a bow holding hands and make their backstage exit.

Just to reiterate, the show is free and worth every bone quaking moment. I'm actually holding my breath and praying, ''Oh God have mercy" and "Boy this is good!" But do I want an encore? 

The Hills and the rain - clicked on one of my holidays

Wild (2004)

For a change I have the video playing in the beginning. It's one of the sweetest songs in the film and I am playing a rendition of the one in the movie.

'Wild' and that is how one would describe Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon). When Cheryl loses her mother to cancer she is shoved down a deep spiral of naked depression. She rebelled and took drugs, had sex with numerous partners and when Cheryl finds out she is pregnant she makes the decision to abort her baby. And in this way a married Cheryl jeopardizes her marriage and she finds herself divorced. Knowing that things have gotten out of hand she must confront her issues to right the wrong. So an emotionally battered Cheryl takes on a massive challenge in a search for redemption, self-discovery​ and healing. She undertakes the project of hiking a daunting 1100 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail in the Mojave desert. For a tenderfoot that's a huge learning experience and the journey that took her 94 days was one of self-introspection, inner healing and forgiveness.
The movie is based on the life of Cheryl Strayed and it's a journey that opened up a beautiful life for her. She went on to get married and have children and find the road to happiness and self fulfilment. The hike Cheryl undertook was a means of catharsis for her. This movie is a huge hit with me and when I first watched it I cried buckets. I laud Cheryl who bravely embarked on a journey that would have deterred most. She succeeded in her search for the key that unlocked the shackles that had enslaved her, setting her free to live the life she was meant to live.

"Her Smile was like armor & everyday she went to war ..." - r.h. Sin

And this makes me smile and I hope you do too

Chet Baker Quartet - Polka Dots and Moonbeams

Guardians of the Galaxy 2 (2017)

The weekend at the cinemas had a dismal selection of movies to choose from. So hubby decided to book tickets for, drum rolls please, Guardians of the Galaxy - Volume 2. A fair warning to the male population of my readers that you may not like my version of the movie. In fact, I can guarantee you that. So here is the movie as seen from my eyes ...

Let's begin with the good. The 3D and special effects are awesome and the soundtracks beautiful. However, for me, it ends right there .... ✋. That was a short list eh 😕. As you're catapulted through the galaxies, there is an interesting parade of golden colored people, blue men and a green woman, a 'triangle faced monkey' and what not. However, I found baby Groot (a walking, talking, dancing sapling) cute. Let me correct that, Super cute. In a room full of testosterone, I was so lost. Guys somehow get the weird stuff unlike us romance seekers. But in all fairness the movie did have romance, mixed in with humor and topped with a generous dollop of sci-fi. 😂
I couldn't help my yawning which began quietly at first to only get progressively noisy (you would think I was sleep deprived). But I was wide awake munching caramel popcorn after the interval... Was that a ploy on hubby's behalf? Guess I'll never know. Towards the end of the movie, in the midst of all the tear shedding, I was scratching my head trying to figure out if I was meant to shed a tear or two myself.
A pat on my back for pulling on my game face and 'kind' of being on my best behavior, since hubby was so into his film. It was a little too much when after the movie I was asked if I was going to write about it.
Say what again 🙇 ... Really now??!!!🙅
Anyways, that's that on that ... Ta da ... 

Stolen moments

As you must already know, I am not a fan of the proverbial Indian SUMMER!!!

I am never without my trusted and 'ugly' Tweety fan

😭 I decided a haircut was the need of the hour. I promptly arrived at my hairdressers and waited patiently to be called while flipping through a magazine. To many of us, our hairdresser is a confidant and friend, someone who will listen, mostly impassively, as you download .... And as I waited I couldn't help but eavesdrop on a telephone conversation. Oops 😮 ... But in my defense, it was a little loud, on the other side i.e. After the conversation was over I snuck a glance and knew straight away that this time around I had to don the 'listener hat' for a change.
So the problem here was the lack of any personal space. My friend here had to be home on time and account for every minute spent. Oh God how I felt! My empathy stemmed from the fact that I grew up in a matriachal household - I rebelled in my own way and this was creating unhappiness deep within me. I longed for the freedom my friends took for granted, like catching​ a movie at will, going out shopping​ or for a meal, visiting friends.... all of this without being made to feel guilty. It's just emotionally exhausting and overwhelming. And in a marriage, a relationship that defines your future, this is unacceptable. Bottom line - it's the product of a deep-rooted insecurity, of an emotionally handicapped person and to me this person is nothing short of a bully. There is an inhererent need to control and trying to live life through those of others. This in my book, my friends, is unhealthy!!!!

One needs to understand and respect the fact that we all need our personal space and the excuses for this sickness may be varied but it boils down to a personal issue, and again, excuses notwithstanding.
I liken this situation to a bird trapped in a gilded cage, fluttering and just waiting to spread it's wings and soar into the blue skies .. to freedom.

I feel for my poor Tweety bird

I hope this is not the reason for a marriage to bite the dust, a relationship so sacred! I hope not ....

Thank you for listening/reading 🙏

And women will be women ... 👼

It's a hot Sunday morning and the dead of summer. Sunday is one day in the week that I refuse to do anything and I was getting a pedi done. Hubby was off running some errands and he comes back with the Sunday newspaper. The following was our conversation, not verbatim though.

Hubby - I bought the newspaper today and there is something here you would like.

Me - Okay. I will take a look at it later

A little later -

Hubby - Did you see the paper

Me - No.

Hubby - Quit whatever it is your doing and take a look

Me - Oh alright!

After a little silence =

Me - It's nice. I like it.

Hubby - I knew you would

Me - But how many are there

Hubby - How many what?

Me - Diamonds!!! 💎  DUH ...😑

Hubby - What diamonds?

Me - the Forevermark ad, right? 💍

Hubby - (in complete panic) NO! NO! I was talking about the write up! Not the ad.

Me - Oh! 😫 Or like Homer Simpson would say, "Doh"!

I can assure you that in the ensuing silence😣 you could hear the crickets, probably imaginary, but (just FYI) I've given my imagination free rein.

Now a question for my readers - ladies let's be honest here. Tell me what really caught your eye?

Heaven is for real (2014)

And yes that is the name of the movie starring Greg Kinnear.
Easter was great, the blessed season that symbolizes hope - an essential human lifeline.
A year has flown by and I'm missing a loved one. I seek a sign just to know all is well. Anything! I've had them before and they've always calmed my restless spirit. So here I was looking for them again.
And then last Sunday happened to be Divine Mercy Sunday. The sermon talked about doubt and the infamous "Doubting Thomas". And that, my friends, is my middle name. My mind is riddled with doubts that creep in at the most inopportune time to only take residence refusing to leave. And once again my faith, like every other mortal, wavers. I tell myself "Woe me of weak faith", here is a glimpse of my love for Shakespeare. Anyway, imagine my surprise when I watched 'Heaven is for real'. Here were the messages subtly coming my way and it was up to me to read them. Do I believe in Signs? After this, I most definitely do.
Now a little about the movie -

Todd is a man who wears many hats! He is a pastor, voluntary fireman, handyman and coach who lives with his beautiful family in Imperial, Nebraska. A gifted preacher, he has drawn the masses and the parish has only grown. However, Todd's faith is put to the test when his 4 year old son, Colton, has to be rushed to the hospital for an emergency surgery. All prayers are answered and Colton is back home. But something has changed! Colton is talking of singing angels, rainbow colored horses, of seeing Jesus and even sitting on his lap. He talks of seeing his great-grandfather and even his late, unborn sister who he knew nothing about. The whole town is laughing at the family, the kids in school resort to bullying and there is a dip in the footfalls at the parish. It's now up to Todd to wholly believe and be convinced in what Colton has experienced to then be a convincing preacher.
Such an incredibly beautiful movie based on true events.
I feel blessed 😇 and continue to pray and hope that all is well on the other side.

As I journey on ... 🚗

And when the road goes on and on ...

We follow the red bus ...

And I do stop to forage for fresh, juicy cashew fruit

And take in the scenery

While breathing in some fresh mountain air

And after a good 9 hours on the road, cold beer, jackfruit chips and a classic on the telly. Bliss!

On the sands ... 👒

The setting sun as it bids adieu for the day. 

Something we all like to .... Playing in the sand ..😊

As the footprints are washed away by  moving waters, here is a poem that comes to mind ~

So until the next time ...

As I do some Soul Searching​ 🔭 ....

I was listening to Joyce Meyer the other day. I absolutely love her simple and honest to goodness messages that apply to an ordinary, mortal life like mine. This particular message stood out for me where she spoke about growing up in turmoil. For that instant she was a kindred spirit. Broken homes, there I've finally said it, tend to create broken lives leaving behind indelible scars. So the decision to get married is a crucial one and a life partner who promises to stand by you even when the whole world walks out, is huge.

 Marriage is a turning point that changes everything. Its paramount to build a strong foundation that will determine the core values for your family life. This is what you will be handing down with worldly inheritances.

I was fortunate to have found someone who refused to give up on

me even when I was ready to quit. So look for your buoy 🚨 or lighthouse, swim hard and don't fear to reach out. There are different avenues like prayer or social circles, good friends ... Make the conscious choice to surround yourself with all things positive and good, like sugar and spice and all things nice. ☺
Do see the following link -
Learning to be vulnerable healed my trauma

The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

Aboard the luxurious Darjeeling Limited travelling through India, are three brothers who had last met at their father's funeral over a year ago. They have now reunited in a bid to get reaquainted with each other and are on a quest to find spirituality.

Francis (Owen Wilson) is the oldest and the controlling one who still insists on ordering food for his brothers and even making their sleeping arrangements. He decides to keep all three passports to ensure that no one can cut their journey short.
Then you have Peter (Adrian Brody) the only one of the three who is married and is an expectant father. However he doubts his ability to be a good husband and parent.
And the youngest is Jack (Jason Schwartzman) who is unable to get over his break up with his girlfriend.
Their mother has left it all behind and is now a nun residing at the foothills

of the Himalayas and the brothers hope to catch up with her while there. The three of them brave insane rickshaw rides amid wandering cows and the chaos of Indian streets and even get their shoes stolen. But undettered and armed with an itinerary and a Cobra the three are thrown off the train. But they must each bear his own baggage and work at building their relationships.
Hilarious and fun, enjoy the journey with the three amid the melodic strains of the sitar in Incredible India with monkeys gazing down from rooftops.

We are only as strong as we are united as weak as we are divided ~ J K Rowling

Going back some years, we didn't have too many choices when it came to watching television. Since satellite TV and on demand had not made their appearance then we had but one channel. So life, I believe, was less complicated. All we had was a half hour of television viewing everyday. That would also explain the oaters I had mentioned about previously 😐. So this meant more time on our hands to spend on meaningful and constructive activities like "family-time" i.e. dinner together, catching up on each others day, reading books to better your knowledge 😋 and so on and so forth. Not to mention the time on my hands to bully my little sister. 😗 Oooops... However that half hour was precious time and something we looked forward to. The reason I got to writing this was to mention the documentaries that were aired on TV just before our shows began. These were simple social messages that focused on varied topics, Unity being one of them.
To me, a sense of being United is what overlooks cultural and racial barriers, encouraging fraternization across all humanity. In other words - Unity in Diversity. A recent share of this beautiful video on social media made me want to watch it again so many years later.

The above video can't boast of high-tech animation or fancy story telling but it can do it's job and get the message across.

Be Happy For this Moment. This moment is your life! ~ Omar Khayyam

On world happiness day I would like to wish my readers much happiness and joy.

How do you define happiness? That's a word, the definition of which, would mean different things to different people. And rightfully so! For some it could be emotional, for others material, then for some spiritual ....

We go through so much each day right from the moment we wake up, that in the whirl of all the busyness and the flurry of activities it's easy to forget the good moments. Most times it is the unpleasant ones that stays with us long after the day is over. So what can be done? Do what I do - be an accountant and keep a ledger/diary of happiness. Mostly as the day draws to an end out comes my book where I jot down the things that made me happy or simply smile. The end of the day works best - just as I'm winding down seems like the perfect time to acknowledge how lucky I am. Most times memory fades. My little journal helps to remind me of all the happy, silly and fun memories of moments passed. This is so therapeutic and a perfect reminder of how blessed we are in so many ways.

Here is 'Happy' sung by none other than my favorite singer. A young, innocent voice, 

So heart wrenchingly melancholic and haunting!

An Education! (2009)

Jenny (Carey Mulligan) has everything going for her - all of 16 years, she is pretty and clever.

Having been an A level student all the way she has her life charted out for herself, with plans to attend Oxford University. She comes from a middle class family with parents who are focused on making sure she gets the best in life.
All  this changes when Jenny meets flashy and rich David (Peter Sarsgaard), a man who is twice her age. David is charismatic and quite persuasive! He charms his way with her gullible parents and he is soon courting a naive Jenny. Beyond the protective confines of a secure home and school life there awaits a world that spells adventure and danger. She is drawn into a life of dinners at fancy restaurants, the auctions, attending the races, weekends away in Paris and the sort. It couldn't get any better when David proposes marriage. With her parents consent, giddy with happiness, Jenny says yes. In the bargain she must kiss her dream of attending University goodbye, which, at that time, seems a small price to pay.
But all of this sparkle and glamour comes at a cost and Jenny is soon privy to the darker side of David's life. Has she risked too much to play the role of the devoted wife? Gosh! For her sake I hope not.
A great film on life and it's various shades. A perfect education on life's complexities and of the 🐺 who comes dressed in sheep's clothing. This movie was nominated for three academy awards including Carey Mulligan for Best Actress who beautifully portrays a girl who is wise but not worldly wise enough.

Communication is 🔑 to a great relationship!

So to further my personal opinion on relationships .. Watch out for where you bare your soul. 🙊 🙈 🙉 Not everyone you consider to be a friend will have your best interest at heart and your story could be just the gossip they've been looking for .. How could anyone be trusted to give any advice when they haven't walked a day in your shoes to know your journey and where you're coming from? So trust your instincts implicitly.
And leave the lines of communication always open. It's easy to get all righteous during an argument. But try to remove yourself from the given situation, view it abstractly and the matter at hand will probably take on a whole different meaning. Give yourselves a break.
With digitization growing in leaps and bounds it is definitely invading personal space, whether we like it or not. But life is racing by super fast and the chasms created by busyness/business will only keep growing. So here's the perfect excuse to create some 'couple me time', something akin to a date-night. It doesn't​ have to get fancy - a delicious home-cooked meal even, some flowers to brighten things up, a scented candle wafting your favorite fragrance and with no interruptions from  the telly or telephones, mind you. This must be your time to unwind with each other, to talk and catch-up.
I can swear by this 👍. Again, communication is sooo important. I cannot say that enough. 😉

The following link is one I found extremely helpful and I thought it would be a great one to share.
7 ways to prepare for a lifelong relationship! Courtesy - MBG

The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)

Mr. Kadam (Om Puri), fondly called Papa, believes that "if the brakes break, it's for a reason." So as the almost broken down van 🚐  carrying the Kadam family smashes to a halt in the village of Saint Antonin, in rural France, Mr. Kadam is convinced this is home. Here is where the family would open the Indian restaurant they'd always dreamed of. However this idea is not welcomed by  the locals, especially Madame Mallory (Helen Mirren), the owner of a Michelin Star restaurant in the village. Madame Mallory is aspiring to achieve her second Michelin star and her restaurant boasts of feeding a delicious fare to the elite of French society, including the French President himself. And like any chef who takes immense pride in their culinary creations, soon war breaks out between the Indian murg mussallam 🐔  and the French pigeon 🐦 and truffles. However Hasan Haji (Manish Dayal), Papa's beloved son and cook who has immense potential, is able to win over the enemy with the perfect omelette. But Hasan must take a hundred foot walk that will change his life and future prospects - all for the best.
Watch the tale as it unfolds to tell you a story of brave beginnings, the power of negotiations and of standing by your convictions.
This is to my lovely friends who now live in France 🇫🇷 👊 😘.

On love and relationships!

While penning down my synopsis for 'Baby baby baby' I didn't feel like I had said all there was to say on my thoughts on relationships.
I adore the following verse from the Bible on LOVE ~ 'Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." 1 Corinthian 13:4-5

Can you really compete with that?
I may get a little candid here with my thoughts and believe me, it's not something I'm comfortable doing. As I see it, we seek the best deals in most things - like when buying a car, a home, furniture, clothes and even groceries for that matter. So why stop when it comes to something as huge as a relationship? Sow the seeds of your time and nurture with love and patience and reap the bounty of a fulfilled relationship. Dishonesty is the weed that could choke a beautiful bond and so as difficult as it may be being honest is paramount for every relationship to work.
Growing up I haven't been lucky to witness strong marriages and it's a heavy burden to carry for a young, impressionable mind. That would explain why, for the longest time, I carried a clouded opinion on the institution of marriage and what it stood for. To find someone to trust and for that someone to understand where I came from was extremely difficult. From my standpoint I had much to prove to myself and it was important to be open to learning, considering I was stepping in with a disadvantage. There is no reason to turn bitter but only better ( Oh the cliches .. 😐 please work with me here). But like I said, it takes a long time to settle in, like a good, mature and full-bodied wine ... I know, I know me glass of red again! 😃
                   ....... More to come 

Her Fearful Symmetry ~ Audrey Niffenegger

It was pure coincidence that I read two books on twins and both, extremely interesting.

Now about Julia and Valentina who are identical twins from Illinois. Intriguing is the fact that they are mirror images of each other, and in the literal sense too- in their appearance, anatomy and personalities as well. The twins are surprised by a letter that arrives in the post one day all the way from London. This letter is from an aunt they had no knowledge of, informing them of an inheritance bequeathed to the girls. Aunt Elspeth is the estranged twin sister of their mother Edwina. To their delight they learn that they are now owners of a flat with all its effects. There is but one condition, just that they must live there for a year before they decide to sell it, if at all. The news of their windfall and the possibility of striking it out on their own has the twins excited and they are soon on their way to London. The flat is gorgeous and it  faces the historic London Highgate Cemetery. Their neighbors - Martin who lives in the flat above theirs is a writer who hasn't left his flat in two years and suffers from an OCD; Robert who Iives in the flat on the lower level works as a tour guide in the cemetery and was their aunts' lover.
It gets interesting when Elspeth's spirit that is trapped in the flat gets friendly with her niece, Valentina. But there are motives deep and dark.
 A tale of self-discovery, of breaking free and about love in all its forms both dark and pure. The suspense and unpredictability will keep you on edge and will not let you put the book down, not till it's done atleast.
This is the second book by Audrey Niffenegger, after ''The Time Travellers Wife', another personal favorite.

Smile Women - This day is yours! 💝

I was wondering what words of wisdom I would impart this Women's Day! Inspiration strikes anytime ..
I haven't been doing too well lately - the flu bug paid me a visit and the past week has been nothing short of hell! But the work must go on and with all my grumbling, hubby decided to help out with the cooking. Now that is not always a good idea, but beggars can't be choosers. So hubby dearest decided to go native and make fish curry .... It was an interesting cooking experience and this is what my immaculate kitchen looked like after the ordeal ... 👇

Turmeric is not pretty on the floors 😕

I'm sure you can hear me groan as I write this! And this is only part of the mess, mind you. Art lovers forgive me, but the walls had something that resembled contemporary art on it (an art style I could never understand). But I only thought of taking pictures much later so I have none to prove my point. So that's that!

My messed and stressed up blender, now clean and doing some yoga 😉

I was ready to scream blue murder .. but if the end result was really good, must I complain?😇

Deliciousness in my curry pot 👌

And now on my plate ... 😃. Do forgive my weak presentation

So, happy cleaning 😒 and Happy Women's Day 💆 🍹 (in advance)

A Good Year (2006)

When your memories are of a 12 year old you and are of spending vacations by the pool playing chess, stealing a smoke and sipping vintage with your uncle on a balmy day in Provence, France ... what would you have to say? I would say that is darn marvellous. So when the years fly by and Max has lost touch with his uncle, the news of Uncle Henry's (Albert Finney) death and the knowledge that he is now the sole heir to the estate and vineyard, could come as quite a shock.
Max (Russell Crowe) has built a successful life in London and Provence is a distant memory. So when he makes a trip back to take assessments and sign papers with the intent to sell, Max finds himself jogging down memory lane reminiscing about a time gone by. The whisper of a voice he once loved, the faint ruffle of the curtain by the window, the radio blaring in some corner of the house, the inviting hammock nestled in the green depths of a luscious garden ... There is a hesitancy as the memories visit and a voice calling to reason.
As Max zips by on the narrow and unknown roads in a little rental and accidentally runs Fanny (Marion Cotillard) off the road, here begins a new chapter in his life.
Will Max sell his inheritance, the old vineyard and along with it the memories? A movie about the good things in life and about making personal choices that could change the course of your life and of the generations to come.

What's with me and vineyards of late. That's two movies in a row.
Guess I love my red after all! Cheers! 

Black Heart Blue ~ Louisa Reid

Black Heart Blue is a tale about Hephzibah and Rebecca. The twin daughters of the vicar of the village church couldn't have been more different; while Hephzi had the looks and big plans for her life, Rebecca, the smarter but quieter one of the two, has Treacher Collins syndrome and doesn't hold out much hope for herself.

Hidden behind the smiles and happy facade but lurking inside the vicarage, a place called home, are deep, dark secrets that can never leave the confines of the four walls. The girls are there for each other but the surrounding darkness threatens to imprison and smother them if they are not quick to escape it's evil clutches.
This book is about fears, about facing and conquering them. Though haunting and sad in numerous ways the story sends out ripples of hope and happiness lapping on the shores of a bright future just waiting to be embraced. It's important to remember there is a beautiful life beyond the shackles that bind you and that you have been chosen to live a glorious life.
This is one book that will stay with me for a long time to come.

My prayer for you ... my dear readers!

A Walk In The Clouds (1995)

Paul Sutton (Keanu Reeves), a chocolate salesman, has returned home a changed man. He fought in World War II and survived the perils of war.

These experiences has now changed his perspective towards life and has given him different priorities. But unfortunately the time spent away from his wife has changed things drastically on the home front.
Paul soon heads out in search of work and while on a train journey to Sacramento his life changes forever. It's on this train that he meets Victoria Aragon (Aitana Sanchez-Gijon), a university student who is returning home from school. But this is one visit she is not looking forward to! Victoria is a Catholic from a wealthy but Orthodox family and being unwed she isn't sure how she is going to break the news of her pregnancy. Ever the gentleman, Paul offers to pose as her husband and thus taking on numerous other challenges. While Victoria comes from a large family that is able to trace their roots back many generations an orphaned Paul doesn't stand much chance of winning Alberto's, Victoria's father's, approval. The family wealth comes from their vineyard that's generations old and being harvest time, Paul offers to help. He soon finds all that he has spent a lifetime searching for ...
Take a walk in the clouds, join in the grape stomping, 🍷 and discover love 💖.
This isn't the greatest of films but it's a visual treat. 

Baby Baby Baby (2015)

And just in time for Valentine's day I watched "Baby, Baby, Baby". I'd never heard of this movie but the story definitely intrigued me.
LA, the city of angels and where people come to fulfill their dreams is the stage for this drama. Meet beautiful, tall and "thin" Sunny, a struggling artist by day and a bartender by night and Sydney, a struggling actor who has made it to a few commercials but in not too flattering a role. A chance meeting in a park, a brief conversation and a quick introduction later this story is rolling. Watch the tale unfold as Sydney and Sunny struggle through life and their relationship, riding all it's highs and lows. 
I love that the movie is simple and real and it will strike a cord with almost anyone.

I've been asked before if there is anything as being lucky in love? I don't think so! Finding love is probably destiny but keeping it is pure hard-work and this coming from someone who has been in a relationship for the past 20 years. I am no expert, oh no Sir! 👆But there is one thing I do know - Nothing is easy. Love hurts and heals, it tries and rewards, it breaks and builds.

Remember this - there are no manuals or a super-glue for relationships .. a commitment and your readiness to work your "ass-off" is what will keep your relationship going. There is no place for three in a marriage so you gotta boot that ego out the door, keep an openess for self-improvement and practicing patience would go a long way;  Oh! A little give and take wouldn't hurt anyone and could make you smile a whole lot wider.😊
I found the following link so refreshing - 
When you know you've found the one.

"You are my best friend as well as my lover, and I do not know which side of you I enjoy the most. I treasure each side, just as I have treasured our life together." - Nicholas Sparks

... There is more to come ... Stay tuned ..

Ghost (1990)

And so the story goes .. that's the way many stories end. But not this one and this is the way I like to tell it -

Hot shot New York banker, Sam Wheat (Patrick Swayze) and the beautiful Molly (Demi Moore), a sculptor and avant garde are a couple very much in love. Theirs is a romance we all dream of having but this love story is wrought with tragedy. Sam is killed in what is believed to be a mugging and the only way to prove otherwise isn't as simple as all that. Playing detective is Sam's ghost but not alone. He seeks the help of a much sought after psychic, Oda Mae Brown (Whoopi Goldberg). Here unravels a tale of love, treachery, motivated by greed and then culminates with sweet revenge.
Always a favorite with me and if I need a good boo-hoo, it's on, period!

And with goose-bumps and all The Righteous Brothers (1965) - Unchained Melody