tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86850687829253439502024-02-19T03:38:48.124-08:00Momma Loves KabirMohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.comBlogger19125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-89444288027519710362019-11-27T00:04:00.005-08:002019-11-27T00:05:36.713-08:00Why is a Boarding School Education Beneficial for your Child?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a veteran who manages boarding school preparation in Chandigarh and tricity for various elite borading schools in India, I meet countless year after year who are brimming over with anxieties, hopes and queries regarding entrnace preparation for their kids.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>It is every parent's dream to extend the <em style="box-sizing: inherit;">best education </em><span style="box-sizing: inherit;">to their children</span>. Boarding Schools in India such as Doon, Welham's, St. George, Sanawar, Mayo and others are some of the eminent educational institutions that are a dream come true for parents in this respect.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Courtesy a plethora of good schools countrywide, the parents nowadays are better informed at sending their kids to a better place to learn things and receive <i><b>quality <span style="box-sizing: inherit;">education</span></b></i>. <strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Boarding schools</strong> are now in greater demand. However, a number of questions often arise in parents' mind regarding elite <em style="box-sizing: inherit;">boarding schools</em>. Some of the pertinent questions that may arise in their minds include:</span></div>
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<li><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Are boarding schools better than day schools for their children?</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Do they acquire good or bad company there?</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Shall there be helping & supportive staff?</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Will there be proper equipment, library, science or computer labs?</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Is the curriculum of study CBSE/ICSE/IB or any other?</b></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I've tried answering some of the most frequent queries that come my way:</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The main criteria is of budget, as private schools have high fees, but as compared to the <strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">boarding schools</strong> they not provide the expected state-of-the-art infrastructure, facilities, environment, teaching methodology and well-equipped tools as promised. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is on account of these reasons that parents in the current scenario prefer sending their kids to <strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">best boarding schools</strong> in order to give them a better <em style="box-sizing: inherit;">education</em> in their own comparison. Most importantly, the parents are hopeful that after gaining such exclusive education their children would transform into capable & independent individuals capable of weathering the challenges of life more skillfully and with greater conviction.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Let's have a look at some of the advantages that Boarding Schools offer over Regular Day Boarding Schools</span></h3>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">1. A sense of Independent Living</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><em style="box-sizing: inherit;">Boarding school</em> children are often independent & self-reliant as they learn to solve their problems on their own like managing their school uniform, clothing, and beddings.</span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">2. Becoming Responsible</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Children become more responsible when they live far away from their parents & family. They know that only they have to manage their chores. They live, study & play with the children of their own age group.</span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">3. Better focus on Studies with fewer distractions</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Many <strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">boarding schools</strong> have big classrooms with a smaller ratio of students. This works well for the children as each and every child gets equal attention in class. With this, proper focus on week students also becomes possible.</span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The most important thing is that in residential schools, they are not distracted by social media & cell phones as playing video games, watching too much television is limited in boarding schools. This also helps them in focusing better on studies.</span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">4. Holistic Development</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Students at <em style="box-sizing: inherit;">boarding schools</em> are often exposed to a multitude of activities. This ensures they have full-rounded education with an addition to fine arts, painting, exposure to games & sports, playing instruments, music, dance, drama, etc.</span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Since all these activities are mandatory in the school premises and there’s no issue of a hobby coming in between studies. In this way, students can pursue their passion.</span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">5. Stability</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><em style="box-sizing: inherit;">What all we perform every day, become a part of our daily life.</em></strong> Thus, living & studying in boarding schools ensures the stability of students. </span>Daily routine and structure give boarders around with certainty. This enhances their ability to become stable & to live with the wider world.</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">6. Relationship</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><em style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Relationships are a source of security & confidence.</span></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Living with the students of same age group, children tend to establish new relationships with each other. They form a positive & life-long friendship.</span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">7. Pastoral Care</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit;">When children live away from their families, they lack family love, which is needed for a child. But in boarding schools too, they get care & love of the boarding teams who take care & supervise them every time.</span>This promotes positive learning experiences in and out of the boarding house.</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">8. Opportunity</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><em style="box-sizing: inherit;">Boarding schools</em> offer various academic opportunities to the students living & studying under their school campus. While providing opportunities to try new things, challenge yourself, build character, and make lifelong friendships. This fosters a sense of competition among them. </span><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">There is no better place for the preparation for college, and life beyond.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">9. Diversity</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit;">In<strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"> boarding schools</strong>, children from far-flung areas come & gain an education. This enables them to live in unity. </span>Local students can also benefit themselves by living with students having different culture, traditions, race, and heritage. Boarding schools have a demographic which is much larger than their surroundings.</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">10. New Experiences</span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="box-sizing: inherit;">Students at <em style="box-sizing: inherit;">boarding schools</em> experience new rewarding things which are also essential for overall development of their personality. These include swimming, playing cricket, learning fine arts, painting, tie n die, pottery making river rafting and many more. </span>Academic students can also extend themselves through many advanced courses.</span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Thus,<em style="box-sizing: inherit;"> boarding school</em> can be the right option for your children if you want them to develop their social skills.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #404040;">If you are looking to enroll your child for a Boarding School Entrance Preparation Course, get in touch with </span><b style="color: #404040;">Mohita Ma'am at 9888586545</b><span style="color: #404040;">. With years of experience, 100% results and a team of selflessly dedicated teachers, she is indeed the best mentor that you can get for your child.</span></span></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-25574850791678502632019-02-06T00:23:00.000-08:002019-02-06T00:28:53.728-08:00Happy Parenting with Himalaya BabyCare<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a Mom, I’m careful about keeping the apple of my eye away from harmful skin care products. Since my hubby happens to be a doctor, I often count on him for product recommendations. Who doesn’t want their baby to be healthy and happy? Mothers go the extra mile to ensure their babies’ overall wellness. Therefore, it is of paramount importance that the baby care products we use are safe and effective.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We were recently introduced to Himalaya BabyCare. I have been using Himalaya products since my teenage. Himalaya is a household name and one that is widely trusted by moms and doctors alike. The fact that their research team meticulously works with herbs that do wonders for baby’s skin makes their products more trustworthy. They are pure, gentle, and safe.<br /><br /><br />We have had a great time this winter using Himalaya Baby Lotion for Kabir, my son, who is about to be 2 years old. Free from parabens, mineral oil, and synthetic colors, the Himalaya Baby Lotion is enriched with the goodness of Almond Oil and Olive Oil. It not only nourishes and moisturizes his skin, but also makes it softer and smoother.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My experience with Himalaya BabyCare products made me realize that perhaps, all their products are Ayurvedic formulations. The products are free from ingredients which are harsh on the baby’s skin, such as SLS/SLES/ALES, phthalates, parabens, alcohol, artificial color/dyes, mineral oils, and animal-derived ingredients, etc. Himalaya BabyCare is widely recommended by medical practitioners as a brand providing effective, gentle soothing, and nourishing products for baby’s delicate skin.’’</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The mom in me can’t be happier seeing my baby glow and get nourished. I’m excited, delighted, and thrilled to explore more products from Himalaya.</span><br />
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-15885310862684958082018-09-06T02:40:00.003-07:002019-02-06T00:24:20.764-08:00Why am I Proud to be a New Johnson's Mom?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am often asked by friends, family and peers in the blogging
world about my unending and over-brimming love for all things Johnson’s. Well,
I end up letting them know that I share an almost <b>umbilical relationship with Johnson’s
products</b> that have been in my vicinity ever since I first opened my eyes to
this beautiful world about three decades ago!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">A lot has transpired in these three long decades. Throughout
my childhood, I lapped up a lot of gentle love and care courtesy my mom’s
fetish for all things Johnsons for me. Right from being dipped into the tub
with Johnson’s baby soap to making soap bubbles or being dusted with the
signature Johnson’s powder after bath to emanating that sweet Johnson’s
fragrance throughout the day, I came to develop quite a strong equation with
the brand. So much so, that when I happened to encounter a Mathematics teacher
called Miss Johnson in class tenth, I couldn’t be happier and at ease. The word
became synonymous for all things trustworthy and motherly. Not to forget, I saw
my mom using Johnson’s baby lotion to remove her make-up and moisturise her
skin every night almost all my life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Likewise, when I reached the threshold of motherhood, I again
turned to Johnsons to nurture and pamper my child the same way my parents had
nurtured me many many moons ago. But of course, by then, my favourite brand had
been subjected to the perils of digital marketing that thrives on cheap
publicity, fabricated news and influenced articles. I had a tough time
convincing everyone around about the purity of a brand that had stood the testimony
of time for over 125 years. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It’s definitely impossible for a brand that has a massive
global outreach to have been doing something wrong and still going strong for
over 125 years! None of those sleazy media gimmicks could shake up my faith in
Johnsons. Now that its new and improved range is out, I couldn’t be more happier.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWAoL4X_3dfHnaTp34EtMsEQMhyphenhyphenq0AQYGfudkjNwE25BvHsSxAbPJgJ7veeD4jhaY63TR7kRh_IXd5sYt3isNWeHV9fiD-ObqgqIXy_w4iHcDr7DHdzJfZ4tcgW2hO_7SFexL-Y3SJ7c/s1600/39339937_244245746231510_888888067962699776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWAoL4X_3dfHnaTp34EtMsEQMhyphenhyphenq0AQYGfudkjNwE25BvHsSxAbPJgJ7veeD4jhaY63TR7kRh_IXd5sYt3isNWeHV9fiD-ObqgqIXy_w4iHcDr7DHdzJfZ4tcgW2hO_7SFexL-Y3SJ7c/s640/39339937_244245746231510_888888067962699776_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">But the sands of time have once again subjected me to the same
prying eyes & nosy questions – <b>Why Johnsons? Let me try quelling all
apprehensions and queries to rest by counter-asking</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>WHY NOT JOHNSONS?</b></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Used my most doctors for their own babies</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Undergo 4 lakh allergy tests</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Clinically proven mild</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Tested with 5.5 lakh people globally</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Undergo 8000 clinical assessments globally</b></span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-9Q7-npsc4D-F3C6YxDxUcSeh_yzq_3d9kZQZu974Zf1oP02CUt5EcOwGxFZGesc9QiPLYMHCWGmS3HZiJ4rFY4LXa0UDbgttBAJAbhAxcg-H7-CrbvZ4lxzHRJB-cVl9A4fG7vmXE8/s1600/40962658_276935392920324_1066478922633314304_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-9Q7-npsc4D-F3C6YxDxUcSeh_yzq_3d9kZQZu974Zf1oP02CUt5EcOwGxFZGesc9QiPLYMHCWGmS3HZiJ4rFY4LXa0UDbgttBAJAbhAxcg-H7-CrbvZ4lxzHRJB-cVl9A4fG7vmXE8/s400/40962658_276935392920324_1066478922633314304_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Not to forget,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">All Johnson’s Baby products are:</span></div>
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<li><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-indent: -18pt;">Transparent and visibly pure</span></b></li>
<li><b>·<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-indent: -18pt;">Free from dyes</span></b></li>
<li><b>·<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-indent: -18pt;">Do not contain parabens, sulphates or phthalates</span></b></li>
<li><b>·<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-indent: -18pt;">Conform to highest IFRA Fragrance standard</span></b></li>
<li><b>·<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; text-indent: -18pt;">Contain ingredients that are tested for 12
months</span></b></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">My joy knew no bounds when like a ray of sunshine, I was selected
among the few fortunate mom bloggers to be a part of the launch of New Johnson’s
in Mumbai this August. I am sharing a few pictures of the wonderful event. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZ4OyNHC4f2trwO9T7vx8XOPp1d5eSKP46npUZx8FIPERkfjAObEaRkpHymya7N-u8YaN63YYatD0v0IN0HAOoIrVHITQ4D8DkieR5DCsaTSgFVwdNx-PQ27mKUdDNZtQkI4RF1GH2is/s1600/40875903_307361986695979_2949227825959272448_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMZ4OyNHC4f2trwO9T7vx8XOPp1d5eSKP46npUZx8FIPERkfjAObEaRkpHymya7N-u8YaN63YYatD0v0IN0HAOoIrVHITQ4D8DkieR5DCsaTSgFVwdNx-PQ27mKUdDNZtQkI4RF1GH2is/s400/40875903_307361986695979_2949227825959272448_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-18979214755038267612018-08-14T23:00:00.002-07:002018-08-22T01:47:23.465-07:00DIY Popsicle Counting Sticks for Early Learning<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keeping toddlers engaged is a Herculean task! A toddler's mind is like a <i>tabula rasa</i>, or a clean slate - impressionable and eager to know. It therefore, becomes imperative for parents to ensure that they are doing their best to channelize their toddler's energy in the right direction.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Being an <b>Early Leaning Expert</b>, I get to encounter a lot many children at work and otherwise. The most common volley of questions that make my way include suggestions on helping children get interested in learning, improving their focus, building their vocabulary, familiarizing them with English language and helping them inculcate decent communication skills.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Quite often, my responses include a carefully planned introduction of colors, toys, everyday household objects and things that perhaps, make children believe that they are being involved in a fun activity rather than formal instruction or learning.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyYUG3bgZxJL7729pcqLFa8nqV_JD2jcJx3eBwmQp7d6T1m9WEORrK36iinXgvy43jrXxo7zVHaj3Zv9xslXcZelAVWeaE_wpvxrh44_hStpg6pPdrmnh6PTRRs8l8GWq22rJvVwpko8/s1600/39165896_1005672909593402_8386972223050612736_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyYUG3bgZxJL7729pcqLFa8nqV_JD2jcJx3eBwmQp7d6T1m9WEORrK36iinXgvy43jrXxo7zVHaj3Zv9xslXcZelAVWeaE_wpvxrh44_hStpg6pPdrmnh6PTRRs8l8GWq22rJvVwpko8/s400/39165896_1005672909593402_8386972223050612736_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>The DIY Popsicle Counting Sticks for Early Learnin</b>g are a perfect exemplification of this methodology. They may come in handy for helping children learn or revise the concept of counting number from 1 to 10.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Materials Needed:</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">10 popsicle sticks (colorful ones would be better) and a sticker sheet.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Procedure:</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is easier than you could've imagined. Simply choose and stick the selected stickers on to the popsicle sticks in simple mathematical progression.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For instance, you may select a large sticker for 1st stick since it would have just one sticker signifying the quantity- 1. Go on, creating more sticks likewise. Remember to keep the smaller stickers for bigger numbers such as 8, 9 or 10 since there might not be enough room on the pospsicle stick to accomodate so many stickers.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Once the sticks are ready, enocurage your child to identify the number spoken by you by choosing the corresponding popsicle stick. On the other hand, you may even reverse this activity by asking your child to prepare a counting stick by sticking on the said number of stickers on to the popscile stick.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MoDLBaVy6OFh7t5lO2NxF-WstbeoW3Bi9HyACgYX0lm16lXKo2bRZLYZPCPzfUJkCuR5_C-XjyznGCK6sfgbsFLHcRubjbKlauamk9g_PUDshniM9dfHkh-nhqN38TvENbuu1fmeVaM/s1600/37500472_2349920645025683_1186216116855242752_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MoDLBaVy6OFh7t5lO2NxF-WstbeoW3Bi9HyACgYX0lm16lXKo2bRZLYZPCPzfUJkCuR5_C-XjyznGCK6sfgbsFLHcRubjbKlauamk9g_PUDshniM9dfHkh-nhqN38TvENbuu1fmeVaM/s400/37500472_2349920645025683_1186216116855242752_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">For more DIYs and fun learning actvities, visit my Insta Profile, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/being_mommie/" target="_blank">being_mommie</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This blog is a part of The DIY blog train hosted by <a href="http://www.myoneupbaby.com/" target="_blank">Oneupbaby</a>, <a href="http://momzdiary.com/diy-for-toddlers/" target="_blank">momzdiary</a> , <a href="https://cheniadukia.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Mama musings</a>, <a href="http://www.lovethatyoucanbuy.com/" target="_blank">Lovethatyoucanbuy</a> . Here we Moms have united to share different DIYs that you can easily do to keep your little one’s engaged. So hop on this train and save lots of fun ideas for your infants and toddlers.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-fO_W_Kh1_T_Wy4pCSA0biurnGTiu0Q1CSRho5nwcEjVP6wN7mjsqcqB5XabuEcdPYItK5MMdohbLtD8vVsewhgxJQgNgBSxDMuvQQixWVgtRj753pdrk5uNeD7D_3wvatVOEmNxTKo/s1600/WhatsApp-Image-2018-08-13-at-11.35.44-PM-300x300.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-fO_W_Kh1_T_Wy4pCSA0biurnGTiu0Q1CSRho5nwcEjVP6wN7mjsqcqB5XabuEcdPYItK5MMdohbLtD8vVsewhgxJQgNgBSxDMuvQQixWVgtRj753pdrk5uNeD7D_3wvatVOEmNxTKo/s1600/WhatsApp-Image-2018-08-13-at-11.35.44-PM-300x300.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Please head over to any one of the hosts and join the fun! :)</span><br />
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-86602872195588281372018-05-16T06:45:00.000-07:002018-05-16T06:45:18.139-07:00Looking for Printables for Your Children or Students?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Being an<b> Early Childhood Education Expert</b>, I love classroom teaching - not the formal instructional part of it, but the finer nuances of ensuring that the children pick up the specific language learning intricacies and weave them around their everyday communicative competences. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My love for teaching and the fact that I was trained by the wonderful and encouraging <b>U.S. Department of State in the United States</b> to imbibe the finer nuances of English language teaching-learning process and Leadership Qualities, gave way to the foundation of my baby venture called <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/theenglishlanguagestudio/">The English Language Studio</a></b>. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/theenglishlanguagestudio/" target="_blank">The English Language Studio</a> is my haven in this big, bright and beautiful world - a tiny oasis of enthusiastic English language learners of all ages. We start from Kindergarten & Toddlers and go up to IELTS. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKj98Ti6-Zn5oPtkaLSc9B_U418gHjAEF-Nd843pYyViq3hruDHPqd1bTLMfsNYRq2QQrizd3dESOX01zThTyRcX31h9H3hhCUJFr6zKnB9IfhrAjG5mxkkw0yPwySdBLnaUSfdhQXK8w/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKj98Ti6-Zn5oPtkaLSc9B_U418gHjAEF-Nd843pYyViq3hruDHPqd1bTLMfsNYRq2QQrizd3dESOX01zThTyRcX31h9H3hhCUJFr6zKnB9IfhrAjG5mxkkw0yPwySdBLnaUSfdhQXK8w/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With children from the Very Young Learners Group (Grades 1 & 2)</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As an educator, I always make it a point that my learners receive but the best - an engaging classroom session followed by equally engrossing activities, exercises and handouts/worksheets.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">My favorite go-to website for most of my worksheet based requirements is <a href="http://education.com/">education.com</a></span> </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF8GgeJtZkR_jITUFN2KEJxu04wzUb-m6EWcyhxbnX-VduBC2vDgm7biTg2sMgZemheAh4iUoJsEfWHksS_uwJ_OikNrOzdKkw8a6S4Ak7tn2D12FiGLPC1RmqYJ-343kFqtDFzntOpts/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF8GgeJtZkR_jITUFN2KEJxu04wzUb-m6EWcyhxbnX-VduBC2vDgm7biTg2sMgZemheAh4iUoJsEfWHksS_uwJ_OikNrOzdKkw8a6S4Ak7tn2D12FiGLPC1RmqYJ-343kFqtDFzntOpts/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Learning English in a fun way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYy0OcM8yP6dhq0E8NaqHpBljEwM3BTkY_xSa16lj16h1OCNrA3EXajp-qViv5xEcKudDdW-yQPcZ83qdU-k-I_1JkAJshzmfSciwhmenw42xACOBxkPkiX2OBiINFZjDTqEeJ_v3_tc/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigYy0OcM8yP6dhq0E8NaqHpBljEwM3BTkY_xSa16lj16h1OCNrA3EXajp-qViv5xEcKudDdW-yQPcZ83qdU-k-I_1JkAJshzmfSciwhmenw42xACOBxkPkiX2OBiINFZjDTqEeJ_v3_tc/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My wonderful learners</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I am often asked by teachers, parents and other learners about the sources of the wonderful concepts and worksheets that I use in my classroom. I would happily like to share that it is none other than Education.com. With a wide array of printables, games, and resources, it is a one-stop destination for all our language learning needs. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Head over to <a href="http://education.com/">education.com</a> now and explore for yourself! :)</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div>
Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-17653075732574227402018-05-15T10:49:00.002-07:002018-05-15T10:49:41.423-07:0010 Confessions of a First Time Mother<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Motherhood is an experience that is beyond the array of even
the floweriest of words. It is a state of mind that is eternally euphoric,
challenging and overwhelmingly precious. As a young girl, I often looked up to
my mother as an epitome of compassion, selflessness and love. I used to be over
the moon about the fact that perhaps, there was one person in the whole, wide
world who would always put me before herself and wish nothing but the best for
me. In a world reeling with selfish ad competitive people around, I thought
this was something way too valuable! Little did I realize at that vulnerable
age that this was a blessing that perhaps, every child in the world is bestowed
upon with. Right from the cradle to the grave, every baby that arrives in this
world tags along a guardian angel in the form of a mother.</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nN-eSAqUzIVC6Hu85qIFwdNjOAPm3i7-vSfDd7YkfP5pZZp-17SZFNsPDcajU3iuUWbDxpirpjhHXBYVpIY9wJSfipoziZ5ufhO3N9EkdHV4nqI98CeJvCcYl9OwJ26ehbNz0eNUKO0/s1600/KABIR+789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7nN-eSAqUzIVC6Hu85qIFwdNjOAPm3i7-vSfDd7YkfP5pZZp-17SZFNsPDcajU3iuUWbDxpirpjhHXBYVpIY9wJSfipoziZ5ufhO3N9EkdHV4nqI98CeJvCcYl9OwJ26ehbNz0eNUKO0/s320/KABIR+789.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little bundle of joy</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The masters of wisdom have waxed eloquent about the purity,
selflessness and undiluted affection that mothers effortlessly ooze and are
cherished for, since times immemorial. <b>Motherhood is undoubtedly, a
life-changing experience. It transforms a woman in ways that are truly
miraculous and unfathomable.</b> I remember how overjoyed I was when I found out
that we were going to be parents! My husband was thrilled but slightly nervous
with the thought of bringing a new life into this world but I was on cloud
nine. I knew this was the next big thing that life had planned for me and I was
more than happy to take on the responsibility that we were about to be blessed
with.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpnmWfFXTgGXWhvnFgfnXUgQMZcfBxc2yDqffIJo15Uv5lvvQgApyz0j4c9VFYvnQASAkOxJqPhYNSaLACyiAAO3OsDtfRlqfiWD-E2Ml3BdEXH1xWsXHOIAyYi0qkcEQ6iQLt5roxY0/s1600/KABIR+945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpnmWfFXTgGXWhvnFgfnXUgQMZcfBxc2yDqffIJo15Uv5lvvQgApyz0j4c9VFYvnQASAkOxJqPhYNSaLACyiAAO3OsDtfRlqfiWD-E2Ml3BdEXH1xWsXHOIAyYi0qkcEQ6iQLt5roxY0/s320/KABIR+945.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The largest piece of Momma's heart</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I can’t even begin to share my excitement when I saw my baby
boy being taken out of my uterus in the operation theatre. Despite the nausea
of the anaesthesia, I clearly remember every single detail of the birth of my
first-born. My family was beaming with joy with the arrival of a grandchild and
celebrations were in the air. Everyone wanted to join in the mirth and
celebrate his much-awaited presence. However, I was equally enthralled with the
dawn of a new role in my life – the day my son arrived in this world, I was
reborn as a mother! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It’s been a year of wonderful motherhood – we’ve already
made countless memories together, filled in a thousand photo albums, relived my
childhood all over again. My baby is the best thing that has ever happened to
me! He has now made me realize what it feels to have your heart beat outside
your body. His thoughts consume every waking moment of my life and I can’t
begin to thank the Almighty for blessing me with a gift so special!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">However, no matter how much I adore this new life, I would
not hesitate to confess that it wasn’t particularly an easy ride! The joys of
motherhood are also accompanied by numbing struggles, everyday transformations
and unprecedented circumstances that may trigger a host of newfound emotions,
hormonal changes and unpredictable mood swings.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Here are some of the
confessions and recommendations that I would love to share as a first time
mother.</span><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Life isn’t going to be the same anymore! The
fact that you’ve just taken on the responsibility of bringing up a tiny version
of yourself could be quite daunting in itself. The reality may knock you off
your senses in the early days.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Motherhood is going to be difficult, demanding
and exhaustive. It may tire your bones to the hilt and topsy-turvy your life
completely in the initial few days bit it’s all going to be worth it. You are
about to usher into the golden phase of your life. So just sit back and relax.
Eventually, everything is going to fall into place. Do not allow the teething
troubles to dampen your mommyhood spirit!</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Learn to get over the ‘Mommy Guilt’! Your baby
is going to be fine and might take some time to adjust in the new world that
he/she has just arrived in. Remember you and your family are doing your best,
and you alone are in no way responsible for your baby’s discomfort during the
early days. By and by, everything is going to fall into a rhythm. Let time
spell its magic! Be patient.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Be prepared to witness your body undergoing a
frenzied mayhem of hormonal changes. It’s inevitable and there’s nothing that
you could do about it. Reach out to your husband to get some much needed
warmth, encouragement and pampering!</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Embrace yourself to be swept away by a wide
array of overwhelming emotions. Being a mother is an instinctive journey and it
definitely doesn’t come with a manual. You will learn on-the-go and be a pro at
it, as time rolls by.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEqNy-uSh0Vs1IK58Xd-ek0JcNh9VwMY96TvKMMrW9yEzdL1khfcpgKVVJ-BfSeXCzSKGAf3ud42lNRhTjVXXWphXP43c6t4dNA4wDZkthJlxhVsyWf37WYsG5-f_ugZX586xt2qHLSw/s1600/KABIR+820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEqNy-uSh0Vs1IK58Xd-ek0JcNh9VwMY96TvKMMrW9yEzdL1khfcpgKVVJ-BfSeXCzSKGAf3ud42lNRhTjVXXWphXP43c6t4dNA4wDZkthJlxhVsyWf37WYsG5-f_ugZX586xt2qHLSw/s320/KABIR+820.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Post-partum depression is a reality! Eventually
the exhaustion of child birth and hormonal disharmony are going to take their
toll on you. Remember it’s perfectly natural to feel low and not appreciate the
‘new you’ for the initial few days.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Perhaps, nothing would gross you out anymore!
You would find yourself having a brush with poop, puke and other not-so-pleasant
experiences on a very frequent basis. The worldly filth wouldn’t really bother
you much henceforth. It would also bring out the humane side in you and teach
you a thing or two about compassion and empathy.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You may miss indulging in the simple pleasures
of life. A midnight coffee,a solitary walk on a quiet evening, a clandestine
dinner date with hubby or a reading spree on a rainy day may now be a thing of
the past. You are now going to be surrounded with responsibility 24X7 and would
need to be around for your little one all the time, sacrificing your much
needed rest or recreation.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You may not appreciate or swallow all the
mommyhood advice coming your way! It’s going to rain a plethora of unsolicited
suggestions, recommendations and warnings. Don’t get bogged down by their
overwhelming volume. Be a patient listener but a picky follower! Follow your instincts
and you are anyways going to learn-on-the-go. No one’s born as a perfect
mother!</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It’s natural to be hit by pangs of nostalgia as
you struggle to settle into your new role! You may definitely want to go back
in the sands of time and relive the carefree, reckless and unfettered days of
independence but these are just ephemeral emotions and would gradually fade
away. You’ll find yourself being increasingly consumed with thoughts of your
little bundle of joy!</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Life is a beautiful collection of memories and motherhood is
the most perfect album to preserve and nurture those memories for all times to
come. A little patience, perseverance and optimism is all it takes to be a
healthy, happy and exuberant mother. <b>Happy mothers raise happy children! </b></span></div>
<br /></div>
Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-69961703071087599882018-04-16T11:53:00.000-07:002018-05-15T03:17:41.976-07:0015 Remarkable Things from My Childhood that My Baby Won’t be Able to Enjoy Anymore<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Being a parent is a wonderful feeling – one that gives us a
chance to take a trip down our unforgettable childhood all over again. Reliving
one’s childhood memories and nuances with one’s baby can be immensely joyful
and thrilling!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a new mom, I love every single moment that I get to spend
with my baby. Watching him grow and evolve is a feeling that is beyond words.
Perhaps, it’s the most gratifying experience that I’ve ever had. As I witness
my year old baby boy grow, explore and experience things in a world that is
replete with technology, internet and everything ready-made and super-quick, I
am often reminded of my own childhood back in the 1990s which might not have
been immensely technocratic, fast-paced or spent in the lap of uber luxury, but
it was certainly worth remembering through a lifetime.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am sure all parents, moms and dads alike, who spent their
childhood during the 1990s would agree that ours was an era of satisfying
complacency, steeped in traditional homely values and spent among the protected
four-walls of trustworthy peers, neighbours and acquaintances who brought us up
like flowers in a garden. We may not have been bestowed upon with an individual
tablet or ipad each, might not have been stuffed with the most updated burgers
or tacos every second day, may not have been to the coolest foreign
destinations on the face of this earth every summer or might not have had our
personal Facebook, Snapchat or Whatsapp accounts, but we were definitely way
ahead of the current generation when it came to being knowledgeable,
utilitarian or worldly-wise. Not to forget, we were definitely more complacent
and gratified when it came to possessions, rewards or demands and enjoyed a
blissful childhood brimming over with innocence, experiences and love in its
purest form. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am sure that the children born in the current era are
definitely smarter, confident and much more articulate than we were but I just
wish that in a world that is constantly battling with the perils of
consumerism, hoarding and flamboyance, there could be some respite. When I see
children of today decked up in their flashy G.A.P and U.C.B outfits, sipping
out water from their expensive Chiccos and MeeMee tumblers and holding
ostentatious learning tablets or Augmented Reality toys in their hands, I often
look at them with pity and wish they could enjoy the pangs of undiluted fun and
merriment that we had through small, pocket-friendly or sometimes even free
things and opportunities. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Some of the most
prominent features of my childhood that I wish I could share with the children
of today would be the following in no particular order:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Painting and repainting our
difficult-to-maintain but adorable <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">white
Batas</b>. I remember spending many a Friday evenings trying to make them look
spotless white the next day.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->When <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Ladki ki Kaathi</i></b> used to be our
childhood anthem and no Annual Function would be complete without at least one
class dancing on it to its fullest while the parents joined in as the
supporting chorus.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->When rainy days were reason enough to quickly
tear away the last page of our school notebooks and create <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">paper-boats</b>. There used to be very many adept boat makers in every
class and they would happily demonstrate their adroitness to the eager amateurs
like me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Much before Annabelle entered the world of
horror and sent shiver down young spines, we had our very own <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">desi </i>bone-chilling versions in the form
of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Aahat</i></b>
and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Zee
Horror Show</i></b> episodes that were absolutely not to be missed and
painstakingly watched hiding under a duvet each week. Who cared about the
reeling after-effects though? I spent many a Saturday nights sleeping clutched
to my Mom’s bosoms unable to get over the intensely frightening scenes that I
would dare to watch week after week.</span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHGiaufUqPAMFUX7ymuJLbACI25eodfNJXo9cR_U8GQ14C5E16noa8TmQMos8xchrfM2WdZkgkTTWrigbjjwcjq77yhiYIyxLPWPjaQ_8W2_w_5wPSzpS7vgGFBWdUi23WG-Y27X5TXk/s1600/Parenting+Blogs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHGiaufUqPAMFUX7ymuJLbACI25eodfNJXo9cR_U8GQ14C5E16noa8TmQMos8xchrfM2WdZkgkTTWrigbjjwcjq77yhiYIyxLPWPjaQ_8W2_w_5wPSzpS7vgGFBWdUi23WG-Y27X5TXk/s640/Parenting+Blogs1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Much before Taarak Mehta and Bhabhi Ji forayed
into our lives, we had our uber cool uncle and aunty icons in the form of the
cast-and-crew members of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shriman-Shrimati</i></b> and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hum
Paanch</i></b>. Yes, we loved singing out loud while opening the doors because
we wanted to look as cool as Sweety!</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->When we devoured packets of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Lays and Cheetos</b> not for their taste, but for their <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">free tazos.</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Our first brush with tattoos din’t take place in
a high-end tattoo-artist’s den but through our 1 Rupee <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Big Babol</b> that tagged along a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">free
tattoo</b> with every purchase. Kids would blow up their entire earnings accrued
on <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Kanjaks</i></b>
on these tattoos way back then.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Kanjanks</i></b> meant VIP treatment at the
neighbour’s house with respected Uncle Ji washing our feet with water followed
by the application of dark pink paints (alta) while Aunty Ji served us with delicious
food that had a carefully folded <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">10
rupee note</b> placed on top of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">halwa</i></b> over an expertly puffed <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">poori</i></b>.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The only television ad that made sense and
enticed us was <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Washing Powder Nirma, Nirma!</i></b> We bet one could never remember it
without singing it out loud involuntarily.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->We din’t have to look for youth icons in Justin
Bieber or Lady Gaga, we had our very own <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Utterly
Butterly Delicious Amul Girl</b> to guide us through the way. Who din’t want to
have that cutesy high ponytail and polka-dotted frock and roam around for
compliments?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz95UzywGci-qt3Xb9IeY3TVCirgCyd5eHaeU_Gb4mlL8vvzT45FYEOZQh2HWwLQ31-NbD43npZmCLG7XRJzoVwGSJCrq0FSygYs6tybua4ZBJHPY6YTfp8oTUQp4_-IgoxLck_z5bwP0/s1600/Parenting+Blogs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz95UzywGci-qt3Xb9IeY3TVCirgCyd5eHaeU_Gb4mlL8vvzT45FYEOZQh2HWwLQ31-NbD43npZmCLG7XRJzoVwGSJCrq0FSygYs6tybua4ZBJHPY6YTfp8oTUQp4_-IgoxLck_z5bwP0/s640/Parenting+Blogs2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->For quenching one’s thirst, one din’t had to
open cans of Pepsi or Mountain Dew, we had our all-times favourites that
included <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Frooti, Rasna, Jumpin</b> and
the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sada-bahaar</i>
Rooh Afza</b>. Nothing aerated, just pure fun!</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Who knew about Halooween’s back then? We enjoyed
our <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Fancy Dress</b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Shows</b> and rocked them like a pro. Be it a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">doctor, teacher, tree, fairy,</b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shatkimaan, Chandrakaanta</i></b> or <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cindrella </b>– we’ve been there and done
it all! Some of us even dressed as Madhuri Dixit, Indira Gandhi and Gangu Bai.
We were spoilt for choices back then.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Most of us lost our hearts to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Suppandi</i></b>
as the most favourite cartoon character. The Doremon, Pinnochio and Pokemon
came much later on the scene. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Suppandi </i></b>was and shall always remain
a legend!</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->We din’t need Facebook or Instagram to know our
friends better. We had our very own powerful tools called <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Slam Books</b> that laid bare everything down to basics. We made many a
trips to the nearest <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Archies </b>or <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hallmark Store</b> and always kept our
collection updated.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">Ø<span style="font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Packing a school bag meant spending at least 10
minutes filling and re-filling our dearmost <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ink or fountain pens</b> with <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">signature
camel blue ink</b> and painting our fingers indigo blue. Interestingly, the ink
always found its way to our faces and school uniforms much to our ignorance and
amusement. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Din’t you just go through an overwhelming pang of nostalgia
remembering all these wonderful nuances of your childhood? Tag a friend and
remind them of the wonderful childhood that you were undoubtedly blessed, to be
a part of.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-29306692957749754242018-03-31T01:07:00.003-07:002018-03-31T03:06:54.477-07:00A Quick Check-List for Baby-Proofing Your House<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Many common household items can be potentially dangerous for babies. <b>Baby-proofing a house can be challenging and exhausting. </b>The best way to go about it is by trying to think on the lines of a curious, excited toddler who loves to crawl, climb and explore spaces in his/her own way.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijO6RbXb5UIw4UzHhZClpht6c4s_iSdTy8cwNk38ll35Oa_t-JeVUTdkHakynkz1wZDgtnnW7NVuGvGwPbNCxgsia4M2yrwQS01CcwdYonWaBkJA6DCWDQub2Uh3Dm1stxaF1nUKVxgoQ/s1600/childproofing-home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="615" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijO6RbXb5UIw4UzHhZClpht6c4s_iSdTy8cwNk38ll35Oa_t-JeVUTdkHakynkz1wZDgtnnW7NVuGvGwPbNCxgsia4M2yrwQS01CcwdYonWaBkJA6DCWDQub2Uh3Dm1stxaF1nUKVxgoQ/s400/childproofing-home.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It could be a streneous job identifying objects that can be put into mouth, cause choking or even strangulation, be knocked over, cause poisoning or may even result in accidental drowning.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keeping a house baby safe is an important parenting goal. Necessary care must be taken to ensure that all major hazards inside the home must be done away with. Don't forget that it only takes a matter of seconds for a child to fall prey to an injury.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Toddlers love to challenge their newly-acquired skills and are therefore, all over the place - jumping, crawling and putting things into their mouth. However, a little planning and some careful execution can ensure that babies remain injury-free within the four walls of their homes.</span><br />
<b><br /></b>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0uUikeBv-LW87AGRkmOg38BARxWaXJeErY4j5wo-2v-5qPq-eBuDyxIRGDrpnjqsXnnLSJ-oi5OXNEAD3OwHHovNP5_Al4LQUstqIZknKMO_2FPw2aN_IeOe-FKayuMEbqTD9sEWXGQ/s1600/Child-Proofing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="890" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0uUikeBv-LW87AGRkmOg38BARxWaXJeErY4j5wo-2v-5qPq-eBuDyxIRGDrpnjqsXnnLSJ-oi5OXNEAD3OwHHovNP5_Al4LQUstqIZknKMO_2FPw2aN_IeOe-FKayuMEbqTD9sEWXGQ/s640/Child-Proofing.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Following are a few pointers to babyproof your house and allow your baby to explore his/her surroundings in a safe, unfettered and rest assured manner.</span></b></h3>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><ul><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Safeguard your washroom entrance, basins and other frequently wet areas with non-slip mats. Chasing a naked, wet baby through the house can be dangerous.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Don't forget to replace all electronic sockets within baby's reach with childproof sockets.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Never leave insect or mouse traps in places accessible to your baby. God forbid!</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keep cosmetics and medicines away from your baby's reach.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Make sure your bathroom and kitchen cleaning supplies are safely tucked away on a high shelf or locked in a cupboard. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Take measures to ensure that there's no way the baby might end up locking himself/herself in the restroom. Installing a lock at its entrance might be a good idea.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keep plants out of a baby's reach. They may cause allergies, choking or turn out to be poisonous.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keep your dustbins or recycling-bins away from a toddler's reach. Babies consider them to be toy boxes full of alluring stuff that is colorful, quirky and attractive.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Keep remotes away from toddlers. Their soft and colorful buttons emitting flash-lights entice the kids to pounce on them. However, the coin-size lithium batteries could be potentially fatal and may cause choking hazards. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Put up safety gates in front of any stairs in the house.</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Follow this checklist and sit back with ease as your child learns to explore the world in a zealous, unconfined, and ecstatic manner. Let the baby take on the world with a new-found confidence and unbridled enthusiasm!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Happy Parenting! :) </b></span></div>
Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-42752342096929882002018-02-09T11:10:00.002-08:002018-03-31T03:03:22.280-07:00To Hubby, With Love! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I am thrilled to be participating in a five day “LOL-a-thon” organized by “The Momsteins”. Join us to read some wonderful letters written by 25 cool bloggers. Stay around to read some amazing letters coming up. Today’s prompt is writing a letter to the beloved! </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dear Hubby, </span></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Born on the same day just a year apart, it wasn’t easy for two hot-headed Taurians like us to make peace during the initial times. But I believe, every relationship goes through a similar trajectory. Like a rocket launcher, it takes a hell lot of energy and agitation to launch a successful married life devoid of misunderstandings, miscommunications and mistrusts. I am sure we fought so much in the formative months of our marriage that if we wish, we could stay peacefully for the rest of our lives now.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We had been madly in love when we got married, but there were a myriad emotions that eventually took birth as we spent more together. With time I have realised how much you have influenced the course of my life. I admire you so much. You are not just my partner in crime, but my 4AM friend, confidante, co-conspirer, punching bag and worst critic. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I love you for the way you guide and encourage me to move ahead in life. You are the backbone of my professional accomplishments. Had it not been for you and support, I wouldn’t have been able to make a mark and establish myself as one of the most successful ELT experts in this part of the country. You are the wind beneath my wings. You made a simple girl like me into an entrepreneur and now a happy mompreneur. Striking a balance between work life and home wouldn’t have been possible had it not been for your support, motivation and encouragement. There have been times when you have supported me, stood up for me even against the wishes of our near and dear ones. You’ve been a braveheart and weathered all the storms directed towards me. Your charisma and poise still spell a charm on me!</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Of course, I feel proud to be your wife but more than that, I feel happy, content and blessed in the mini universe that we’ve created for ourselves. Thank you, for being the son, that my parents never had. Also, thank you for pampering me and taking care of my little needs.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">You weren’t particularly sentsitive towards my ideas or innovations when we got married but the way you have warmed up towards my needs and aspirations is commendable! There may be many things that I love but you may not be interested in. Believe it or not,it doesn’t even matter now because the things that we enjoy doing together are the only one that seem significant now.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You’ve been the best decision of my life and I am not going to let you go, for the rest of my life. You’ve been captured and imprisoned for life now.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Thank you for coming in my life and making me realise that after all, fairy-tales do come true. Ours has been a roller-ride replete with bumps, speed-breakers and road tickets but in the end, it was worth the destination that we’ve finally arrived at.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Love,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Wifey</span></span></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-17619720938776441752018-02-08T09:53:00.002-08:002018-02-08T09:54:49.560-08:00Letter to Older Self<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am thrilled to be participating in a five day “LOL-a-thon” organized by “The Momsteins”. Join us to read some wonderful letters written by 25 cool bloggers. Stay around to read some amazing letters coming up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Today’s prompt is “letters of love- to your older or younger self”.</span><br />
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<b>Dear Older Self,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It feels extremely bizzare yet gratifying as I pen down this letter. Listening to one's inner calling and retrospecting from time to time are indispensible ingredients for an enriching and satiated life. I have often taken time out to reflect, retrospect and replenish life with new zeal and enthusiasm, learn from lessons and prepare for future. This letter is another step forward towards the same - a process of self evaluation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I hope that you are proud of the life that you've lead so far - a lifetime replete with professional, emotional, familial and spiritual roller coaster, bumpy at times but truly memorable to the core. I hope you've lived a life <i>sans</i> any regrets. There must have been times when you would've felt hurt, betrayed and weak but I am sure you would have bounced back with double vigour and vivacity.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I hope you thank Almighty every day for bestowing a life, so grand and blissful on you. You should know that you have always been God's favorite child and would continue to remain so for the best of your life. With Kunal and Kabir by your side, I am sure you have lived the best life that you could have asked for! Also, don't forget to thank your stars for having such loving and doting parents around who have always been the guiding force behind all that you have achieved or aspire to do so.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I believe you would have accomplished most of your travel goals by now. If not, continue to embark on the journey. The world has countless spaces that demand to be explored and documented. I hope the writer in you has quenched at least some of its thirst after being a best-seller for very many years. Now its time to pass on the baton to perhaps, Kabir. I believe he's already given you enough reasons to be proud of. Isn't he the best child that one could have asked for?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Your house looks as charming as a vintage art gallery. Let it breathe in some much needed respite. What about your dream of building a cottage up the hills? Have you been venturing out for more conceptual photography walks? Don't leave any of your desired unfulfilled! Do you still take some time out for star-gazing or talking to the moon? Has Kunal stopped taking you out on secret dates or does he still like to venture out at night with you by his side? I hope that he's finally started enjoying the Italian cuisine. Do you still find yourself on a bistro hunting spree in your city or have you settled for some permanent favorites?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am sure you are still as energetic and chirpy as ever without a trace of age or fatigue catching up on you! Just keep yourself ready for all the adventures that life brings along. Don't let anything bog you down - sunshine or rain - keep shining on like a crazy diamond and continue spreading love, laughet and cheer around!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">May the Force be with you! Amen!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I would like to thank Sripriti Somasundaram for introducing me. You can read her post here <a href="https://sriprithi.wordpress.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #007acc; text-decoration-line: none;">https://sriprithi.wordpress.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I would also like to introduce my fellow blogger Aritra. You can read her wonderful post on the prompt here <a href="http://thelattemom.com/" style="background-color: transparent; box-shadow: currentcolor 0px 1px 0px 0px; box-sizing: inherit; color: #007acc; text-decoration-line: none;">http://thelattemom.com/</a></span></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-54179778726430148552018-02-07T09:22:00.002-08:002018-02-08T09:59:55.228-08:00Letter to My Bestie<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Dear Anshita,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Words cannot suffice the joy and relief that is rushing through my veins at this juncture. Finally after a hiatus of many moons, I am fufilling a promise long overdue. An important part of our childhood was spent in exchanging letters - letters of longing, affection, nostalgia, anger, excitement and fun. Today when I look back at the sands of time, I realize that our friendship that blossomed way back while we were in Grade 4 is one of the most priceless blessings of my life.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You've not just been a bestie but a soul-sister, mentor, confidante, guide and trouble-shooter. I have had the privilege of counting on you through my childhood, teens and even now. I can't even begin to tell you how much I value you. I know I have hardly ever reciprocated the warmth, affection and love that you've been showering on me so effortlessly all these years. I've been a slipshod, for most part. While you always stood by me through thick and thin, I always remained elusive and yet I always found you embracing me, my rants and ruminations with open arms. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I remember how you were over the moon while I was getting married. Your incessant calls, messages, images and suggestions din't make it seem that we were continents apart. You were always around. I wish you were there in person but even in your absence, you were always around seeking minute to minute updates from others bridesmaids. Kunal was equally worried about making sure that you were being provided with the latest updates because even he could sense the special & unfathomable bond that we share. He was zapped witnessing all the affection we shared despite staying apart for close to two decades. Distances might have separated us physically, but the wonderful bond that we shared since we bacame childhood transcended all barriers and stimulated us to stay in touch through letters, emails, phone calls, chats, skype, social media accounts and many other ways. You were that one friend whom I could count on, even at the dead of night when I had no one else to share my dilemma or excitement with.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The last meeting that we had was perhaps, in the year 2000, a day before I moved to another city. I can recall those moments so clearly as if they happened just yesterday. You had come to bid us goodbye with aunty and Maasi. Mumma had served ice-creams. We were looking around my house one last time together. While the elders were busy discussing their things, we had been feeling nostalgic and thinking of ways to stay connected. That's when my mom popped the idea of writing letters. Honestly, I had thought that we would write to each other once or twice and then get over it. Back then, I din't know that this was a relation that was bound to stand the testimony of time. Your first letter reached me barely weeks after we settled into our new life in Patna. I wrote back describing my new life extensively. You reciprocated my new found fears with great warmth and encouragement. Perhaps, this was the time we realized what we meant to each other.The distance made us realize the value of our timeless friendship.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">There are countless memories that keep flashing through my mind when I think of us. But some of the most special ones include the quiet lunch that both of us used to enjoy sitting on the windows (yes, you got that right!) of the assembly hall, stealthy visits to the senior wing's garden area, plucking tamarinds from a tree near our school stop, sitting together hand-in-hand in the tiny tempo that used to ferry us to school, paying visits to each other's house for collecting notes, playing with kitchen set and barbie houses in my beautiful room upstairs, buying things from <i>Mangal bhaiya </i>during lunch hours, exchanging friendship bands and relishing the lovely times in our trio - Aesha, you and me. Back then, I always thought that Aesha was a friend who was meant to be retained and that, you & I, would forget each other too soon and easily. But fate had other plans. I din't know that the girl from Sinker House was meant to befriend a girl from Darling House for all times to come.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I wish I could meet you soon and engulf you into a tight bear hug. I have imagined a scene so many times in my mind wherein we are meeting crazily like two long lost soul sisters at the Heathrow Airport and leaving the onlookers stunned with the hullabullo. I am sure there shall soon be a day when either you would be soaking the Chandigarh sun or I would be enjoying the Birmingham rains. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I hope I shall receive a reply to this letter like the countless others that preceeded it. From inland letters to postcards, couriers to greeting cards, orkut, yahoo messenger, skype, viber, facebook, whatsapp, email to blogs - we've definitely come a long way!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">May the force be with you!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Loads of love, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Aena</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444340; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I’m thrilled to be participating in a five day ‘LOL-a-thon’ aka Letters of Love Blogathon organised by ‘The Momsteins’. Join us to read some wonderful letters written by 26 cool bloggers. Stay around to read some amazing letters coming up. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444340; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444340; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hop on to read an exciting letter penned down by versatile bloggers, <a href="http://thelattemom.com/">Aritra </a>and <a href="https://toyingwithbaby2017.wordpress.com/">Aparna J Raj</a>, and show them some love.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;">This post is based on the </span></span><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">second prompt which was to write a letter to an inanimate object.</span></span><br />
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-67459546925778129342018-02-05T22:07:00.002-08:002018-02-07T09:26:38.093-08:00Letter to a Feeding Bottle<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Dear Feeding Bottle,</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In a world full of stay-at-home breast-feeding mothers, I consider you as a bosom friend. While these mothers have the privilege of nurturing their little ones with their feed throughout the day, working mothers like me have to resort to you for ensuring that our babies get nursed and remain well fed as and when required. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It is an open truth that you serve as a surrogate mother and look after our babies in our absence, tending to their dietary demands like a natural mother. I remember how envious I used to be when I would see Baby K longing for you during times when he should have ideally been exclusively breast-fed. But I was equally thankful to you for filling in for my absence and providing him with the much needed relief during times when he suffered from severe hunger pangs during my absence.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I vividly remember how you were my only ray of hope during times when Baby K's weight was a matter of concern. The memory of my pediatrician recommending me to increase Baby K's bottle feeds still remains etched in my mind. She had clearly suggested me to keep my motherly aspirations and ego aside, and introduce bottle-feeds as a remedial option for curbing my little one's weight loss during his initial months. However, she had also forewarned me about the perils of bottle feeding. Baby K easily took to bottle-feeding and thankfully, reached his body weight milestones. However, the comfort and ease that the bottle feeding brought along clearly declined his inclination for being breast-fed. It almost shattered my heart to pieces but I somehow kept my calm and allowed my grief to bottle-up. But as fate would have it, I came across many other moms who had similar stories of not being able to bring up their babies as exclusively breast-fed and with time, I decided to let go - the <b><i>grief, guilt </i>and</b><i><b> dilemma.</b> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Today, Baby is a happy and healthy baby who loves to eat practically everything edible under the sun. From fruits and pureed veggies to cereals and sweets, he loves to gulp it all. I shall eternally remain indebted to you, for having taken care of my baby during his crucial formative months. I may have failed as a mother to cater to his growing needs but you stepped in as a god-mother and nurtured him in more ways than one.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Even today you remain his closest confidante in times of excruciating hunger and sleepless pangs. Thank you, for filling for my shortcomings and letting me bring up a charming boy that he is. I am sure you have left no stone unturned in helping him become the finest version of what he could have been. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Forever indebted,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Baby K's Momma</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444340; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I’m thrilled to be participating in a five day ‘LOL-a-thon’ aka Letters of Love Blogathon organised by ‘The Momsteins’. Join us to read some wonderful letters written by 26 cool bloggers. Stay around to read some amazing letters coming up. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444340; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444340; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hop on to read an exciting letter penned down by a versatile blogger, <a href="https://theindianparentingblog.wordpress.com/2018/02/06/mirror-mirror-on-the-wall/" target="_blank">Pavneet</a>, who has written a wonderful letter to a mirror. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;"><br /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;">This post is based on the </span></span><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">second prompt which was to write a letter to an inanimate object.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;"><b>Hosted by:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;">MyLittleMuffin</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;">TheMomSagas</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #929292; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529;">Mummasaurus</span></span></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-78301865581069697362018-02-05T04:13:00.002-08:002018-02-06T04:38:56.799-08:00A Letter to Late Mom & Dad In Law<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>A Letter to Late Mom & Dad In-Law</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444340;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I’m thrilled to be participating in a five day ‘LOL-a-thon’ aka Letters of Love Blogathon organised by ‘The Momsteins’. Join us to read some wonderful letters written by 26 cool bloggers. Stay around to read some amazing letters coming up.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: #fafafa; color: #212529; font-size: large;">This post is based on the first prompt which was to write a letter to parents/in-laws/kids. Hop on to read the letters of love being penned down by fellow-bloggers, <a href="https://thebanterinmyhead.wordpress.com/2018/02/05/letters-of-love-to-my-parents/" target="_blank">Dr. Pooja Kapoor</a> and <a href="https://thebanterinmyhead.wordpress.com/2018/02/05/letters-of-love-to-my-parents/" target="_blank">Pavneet</a> and show them some love! :)</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Dear Mom & Dad,</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I wish I could see you, if only for once. Destiny has joined us through an umbilical cord that transcends generations as well as sands of time. As bizzare as it may seem, but we are all now a part of common history. I am connected to you not just by way of a biological family tree but through a countless memories, objects and emotions that lie strewn all over your house which I now call 'home'.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You left this place for your heavenly abode many many years ago, perhaps around the time I was in my teens unaware about the loss of two precious people who were to going to be such important pillars of my life. As fate willed, we never met. <b>I never had the honour of being blessed by you but I have imagined how good life would have been and how lively our home would have been had you two been around. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am reminded of your painful absence every single day when I look at your picture that adorns and blesses our living room, a silent testimony to all the joys and sorrows that dwell in the house. The masters of wisdom have perhaps, rightly suggested, that a picture speaks a thousand words. Yours speaks out much more. <b>I have looked at this picture ever since the day I entered your home decked up as a bride. I remember looking at it during all the highs & lows of life - during my first moments in your house as a <i>bahu</i>, on my first <i>Karwachauth</i> longing for an affectionate <i>sargi</i> (from mom), on our first wedding anniversary, on your birthdays & death anniversaries and most importantly, on the day we discovered that we were going to be parents. </b>I wish you were around to see the love, joy and companionship that Baby Kabir has brought in our lives now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">How do I write to you about the vacuum that we feel in our lives? I wish you knew how much we miss having you around. Every morning before Kunal steps out of home, he looks at your picture, nods down and then leaves. Every night when I turn the lights off, I bid a silent goodnight to you, contemplating almost every day how life would have been with you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Ever since a child, I remember telling my friends that I would be my mother-in-law's favorite once I got married. I wish this dream could come true. Mom, I have often missed having your around dearly. Your jewelry, utensils and other material remanents often speak volumes about your enthusiasm towards life in general. I wish we could go for a shopping spree together some day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Dad, I wish I could cajole you into siding with me and making fun of Kunal over trivial things. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Words cannot portray the loss and emptiness that I feel without both of you. This house would have been a home had life not taken this ugly turn. I am sure Kabir would have had a much more blessed and playful childhood had you been around to mentor him and lead him ahead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Time is a healer. The family and your son, have moved on with your loss but your memories are still as fresh. They come oozing out in the form of tears of longing and inexplicable silences. I have always felt my stomach churn at the very mention of the word 'in-laws'. To me, you both shall always be the parents that I so long for. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I hope that you know how much we love, respect and value you both. You are my pole star in times of happiness and sorrow, silently blessing me and showing the way around. Miss you!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Love & Regards,</span></b></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Bahu</span></b></i></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Hosted by </span></b></i></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">#Mummasaurus</span></b></i></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-91739459823654868332018-01-30T11:39:00.003-08:002018-01-30T11:39:47.434-08:00Sourcing Books for Early & Young Readers? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Raising literature friendly kids is no child's play! Helping children inculcate a genuine appreciation for books is every mother's cherished dream. I was fortunate enough to be raised to be a mother who loved to read and encouraged my own love for reading. Therefore, it's only natural when it comes to my inclination towards helping Baby K become an eager and enthusiastic reader. As an ELT Expert, I get to witness the multifarious benefits of reading among children and adults, on a daily basis.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It is an open truth that children who are well-read happen to be better learners, great at communication skills and are far better conversationalists than others of their age who lack good reading habits. It goes without saying, that book lovers are more confident, vocabulary enriched, quick-witted, well-informed, creative and quick to innovate. I have already waxed eloquent about the benefits of introducing children to reading habits at an early age in an earlier post <a href="https://mommaloveskabir.blogspot.in/2018/01/the-right-age-for-introducing-babies-to.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sourcing the right kind of books for a baby can be quite overwhelming for working moms or mommypreneurs like me who somehow always suffer from paucity of time. It was while on a lookout for child-friendly online book stores that I discovered <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1965629583684645/" target="_blank">Young Readers Den</a>, a closed Facebook Group run by a mommypreneur, Snehal Bhaswath. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1965629583684645/" target="_blank">Young Readers Den</a> is a haven for parents like me who wish to accrue the right kind of child-friendly books for their little ones but are hard-pressed for time or options. The books on sale include pre-loved. pre-loved as new and fresh. Snehal is a perfect combination of wisdom and patience, and is all ears for parents' queries, confusions or recommendations. Unlike other materialistic vendors and websites that are merely interested in the commercial aspect of books selection and endorsement, Snehal is a gem of a facilitator who is quick to respond to a parent's need and inquires with the warmth of a fellow mom. Not only this, she gives one the liberty to take one's own sweet time in selecting, filling and getting the cart shipped.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Book postings happen four days a week between 2-3 PM and members are allowed to get their desired books blocked. She even provides an elaborate preview of the books on request. The blocked books are shipped over the weekend. The cherry on the cake remains free shipping, on orders exceeding Rs.750. Recently, she has come up with a Whatsapp Group too that can be joined through an invitation request.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I am so glad to have discovered her through a destined serendipity and can hardly resist placing orders for books that Baby K would eventually read through his growing months. If you too have discovered a books facilitator or vendor who's favourite, kindly share their details. I would love to swing by their store. If not, try <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1965629583684645/" target="_blank">Young Readers Den</a> and let me know if you had an experience as good as mine! </span><br />
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-72657328251854677712018-01-26T01:34:00.003-08:002018-01-26T01:39:30.313-08:00The Right Age for Introducing Babies to Books<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Raising well-read and linguistically impressive kids is every mom's dream! Who doesn't love a child who loves books? It gives me immense happiness when I see my 10 month old baby boy affectionately turning the pages of his board books and smiling away to glory! God knows, what he deciphers as he browses through the pages, but I am sure that the practice makes him book friendly, to say the least.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Helping children warm up to books at an early age offers a plethora of benefits. Not only it paves way to nurture an appreciation towards books and literature, it also opens up avenues that are non-violent, parent-administered and child-friendly. Very young children or toddlers who enjoy flipping through board books or sound books are usually more likely to develop into serious or voracious readers as they grow up. The fact that a toddler is happy around books gives a mother an exciting hope that he might soon want to be able to understand the written word and pictures with some help, or on his own.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Science recommends exposing children to books at the age of 4 months.</b> Since times immemorial, babies have shown a keen interest in books. Their interest in exploring books is often conveyed by way of touching, chewing, grabbing, shaking or throwing them around. It therefore, needs to be kept in mind that the kind of books they are exposed to are safe. Cloth books, board books or vinyl books are some of the most popular options when it comes to infant books.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Usually by the age of 6 months, children try to observe the content of books instead of merely mouthing or toying with them. At this milestone, they must be encouraged to turn over or flip through the pages and glance at the content. Using board books at this stage is a good option since the little ones are able to keep their small fingers between their thick pages and flip through easily. Such individual and autonomous exploration gives their curiosity a much-needed boost and momentum.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Following are a few of the benefits that introducing books to children at an early age offers:</b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Language acquisition skills are at their most optimum during the early years. Therefore, continuous exposure to written or spoken word helps children imbibe the language skills naturally.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It helps them warm up to sounds, words and speaking abilities at large.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Exposure to books also assist children in understanding the difference between real and imaginary. It also gives an insight into the world around them.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Persistent exposure to written word helps babies warm up to languages more easily. Reading skills are also better developed when a child is provided with frequent exposure to the written word. Repetition and intuition help them acquire reading skills faster.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Reading aloud to the kids from a book helps children develop early literacy skills like listening, comprehension and understanding. It also renders them a chance to try and learn intuitively.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Books help stimulate children's creativity, imagination, curiosity and have a positive cumulative effect on their cognitive development</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Books or stories based on specific places or cultures also help children develop a sense of understanding about their society, culture, norms, etc. It assists them in imbibing the expected cultural norms and practices.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Gives children a chance to have a better understanding of doing familiar things such as eating, sleeping, playing by looking at the illustrations.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Books help children inculcate an understanding and appreciation for pictures, colors or art in general.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It helps them explore more about themselves or others around their own age.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">It stimulates a plethora of cognitive skills that include recognizing, imitating, understanding and sharing.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Doctors and pediatricians often share that <b>by the time a child reaches his first birthday, he would have naturally acquired or learnt all the sounds needed to communicate in his mother tongue.</b>Therefore, the more books that he is exposed to or the more stories that he is read aloud, the greater would be his exposure to the language and therefore, better would be his stint at mouthing words and learning to speak correctly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a Mom, I am trying my best to help Baby K become book friendly and inculcate an appreciation for literature, stories, written word and art. What about you? :)</span></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-76573441658207075392018-01-23T03:20:00.000-08:002018-01-23T03:20:44.664-08:00Mine is a Hopscotch Baby! What about Yours?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space: pre-wrap;">For an over-zealous and unconventional Mommy like me who always wants something unique and different for her child, it’s quite a task when it comes to selecting baby clothes. I always try making Baby K wear something that's neither cliche nor common. I am sure all mothers love to dress up their little ones in clothes that fetch them overwhelming attention and compliments. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Baby K was lucky enough to be gifted (literally) tonnes of clothes by his Bua & Nani. Both of them had painstakingly stocked up a huge collection of summer and winter clothing items from Thailand & Canada. For a few more, there was <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hmindiahm/" target="_blank">H&M Kids</a>. However, our tiny bundle of joy was quick to outgrow many of his clothes in the blink of an eye!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It was then, after going through hundreds of online websites, that I found my forever favourite, <a href="https://www.hopscotch.in/" target="_blank">Hopscotch</a>. These guys are amazing! Their collection is uber cute and is always brimming over with new and contemporary designs at super affordable prices. Not only this, they take pains in ensuring that the deliveries are on time and are super quick to respond. Baby K has worn <a href="http://hopscotch.in/" target="_blank">Hopscotch</a> outfits for most of his special occasions including his maiden Lohri earlier this month. .</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As you can see, this dashing Check Print Gray Romper with Cap for him like a glove and earned him oodles of compliments and blessings. .</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ever since the pictures were up, I have had several moms writing to me to know about his outfit whereabouts. Well, here it is. If you are also looking for chic, contemporary and unique collection of Baby clothes and other baby stuff, head to Hopscotch India and be spoilt for choices!</span></span></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-24628344347107415922018-01-19T00:42:00.003-08:002018-01-20T04:06:35.960-08:00Why I Decided to Go for Gender Neutral Parenting for my Baby?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">In a world replete with binaries, have you ever heard about the concept of <b>Gender Neutral Parenting? </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Though it's a phenomenon still in its incipient stages, but it comes as a sigh of much needed relief in a world plagued with 'pink for girls & blue for boys' beliefs. I had several bitter-sweet experiences while I was planning for my baby shower last year. Much to my and my husband's amazement, the so-called spoilt-for-choices pregnancy and child-care stores din't have much to offer beyond the boundaries of pinks and blues. For overzealous parents like us, who had no inkling of our baby-to-be's gender, and were just looking forward to the experience of parenthood and some light baby-shower fun, it was quite a disappointing stint. While we were looking for neutral picks in terms of colors and themes, we were constantly cajoled into either finding the gender of the baby or picking a combination of blue and pink. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It was then that I had made up my mind of not exposing my child to gender-based compartmentalization in terms of upbringing, habits, clothes, literature or toys. I remember how careful I was while giving my brief for the cake to maverick cake-artist and connoisseur of desserts, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/knijhowne" target="_blank">Master Chef Kandla Nijhowne</a>. I was determined to have a gender neutral cake brimming over with baby cutesies. I had spent many nights looking for the most unconventional options and had put together a list of props that I wanted to be included such as booties, bibs, clothesline, onesies and many others. I can't even begin to tell you how nicely were my ideas put to execution by Mrs Kandla. Much to my delight, she came up with the cutest caption that read, <b><span style="color: red;">'Pink or Blue, We Love You!'</span></b>. Our family and friends quite appreciated the gender-neutral choice of babyshower theme and cake, and that encouraged us as parents to continue with this parenting style.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a matter of fact, we were recently covered by Chandigarh's leading newspaper, The Tribune, for being among a few adventurous parents who have adopted this parenting style and decided to raise our children <i>sans</i> the confines of gender stereotypes. As you can see in the picture, we love dressing Baby K in pinks, purples and peaches. Not only this, he loves to play with my dolls and doll houses too. When he was even younger, my Mom and nieces loved dressing him up in my baby clothes. So, we have had memories with him wearing my frocks, tunics and even sarees.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You may read the entire article here, <a href="http://epaper.tribuneindia.com/c/24679004" target="_blank">http://epaper.tribuneindia.com/c/24679004</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Choosing to raise my child gender neutral is a decision that I am truly elated and proud of. It comes as a great breather in times when everything is being compartmentalized and labelled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">How Can You Raise your Child Gender Neutrally?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Parenting your child this way is easy and enjoyable. All you need to do is to allow and motivate your little ones to explore, express, dress, play or socialize <i>unfettered</i>, without the baggage of expected societal norms and aspirations. Encourage them to seek out choices for themselves in all spheres of life without labeling things, ideas or activities as <span style="color: blue;"><b>'for you'</b></span> or <span style="color: magenta;"><b>'not for you' </b></span>based on their biological sex. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As a parent, you can let your child interact and grow up gender-neutrally in countless little ways. Letting little girls play with cars and robots, allowing boys to play with teddies and dolls, not reminding young boys to 'stop crying and Man up', giving young girls the freedom to opt for pixie hair-cuts, allowing children to pick play dates irrespective of their gender, encouraging boys to read classic tales of Cindrella, Snow White and others, offering children to choose their own clothes without any color biases are a few of the parenting practices that may help you transform your parenting style. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">You will be pleasantly surprised to know that as a way forward, Sweden has already embarked on this trend and realized its magnanimity in improving the lifestyle and overall prestige of its citizens by adding a gender-neutral personal pronoun 'hen' to the country's vocabulary. Many of the clothing brands have followed suit and launched gender neutral outlets for toys, gifts and clothes. It looks to good to see some sanity spreading in the world. Isn't it? :)</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">We have happily adopted the Gender Neutral Parenting Style. What about you? :)</span></b></div>
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Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-61623037375968898682018-01-18T00:12:00.000-08:002018-01-18T01:54:22.503-08:00Worried about Introducing Solids to your Baby?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Introducing solids to your baby can be an overwhelming notion for some, especially for exclusively breast-feeding mothers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Usually all pediatricians recommend waiting for six months at least, before introducing the babies to solid foods. However, for some babies who find it difficult to catch up with the recommended weight milestones, parents may be advised to initiate some solid foods with general precautions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The very notion of introducing solids to babies is quite exciting and delightful, and should be taken in the same stride. Some mothers often get swayed under the deluge of advice they receive from family and friends around, and hence, look upon this journey as a tedious challenge that needs to be tread carefully. A good way of embracing yourself for the upcoming journey could be thinking of all the delectable foods that you can finally share with your little one and make memories along.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: large;">I remember how excited I was when it was finally time to introduce Baby K to solids. I couldn't help thinking of the cute little spoons,bowls and plates that we would use for feeding him. I also rummaged through his wardrobe and clothes-baskets looking for the super cute bibs and trays that had been lying to be used at an opportune time, which was finally approaching after a long wait of almost half a year. Also, the fact that my baby could finally sit and eat was a treat in itself. I could already imagine him relishing fresh and juicy fruits such as grapes, oranges, plums and apples.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I would therefore, recommend all other fellow mothers to go easy while introducing solids to babies. It's a joyride. Just conserve all your energies towards raising an adventurous eater! All you may need to do is to make sure you have a blender, food processor or a baby-food grinder around.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Some of the simple foods that you may begin with include:</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">pureed single ingredient foods without sugar or salt. These may include pureed bananas, papayas, peaches, pears, apples, sweet potatoes among others.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Porridge made of sooji or semolina, ragi, sabudana, or oats. (You may add a pinch of powdered cardomam to make it taste better)</span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">upma</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">potato rice with some butter</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">cheese slices</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">biscuits or rusks dipped in formula milk</span></li>
</ul>
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<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">puffed rice </span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">tomato soup with some beetroot or carrot</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">So now, let go off your apprehensions and get set to conquer new eating milestones with the apple of your eyes. Don't forget to share your pictures with me as you go ahead and bask in the glory of wonderful parenting memories ahead. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This list is by no means exhaustive, but a mere harbinger to help you embark on a wonderful culinary journey ahead with your little one. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
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</div>
Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8685068782925343950.post-88028873351526252142018-01-16T04:05:00.004-08:002018-01-18T00:45:42.949-08:00Here's to New Beginnings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Writing has always been therapeutic for me. It has always been my closest confidante, be in the pages of a long cherished diary, in a hidden folder in my phone or the many blogs that I have had so far. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">For a single child who always missed the exciting company of a sibling around, I always yearned for companionship during my growing years. Thankfully, instead of letting me fall prey to the squandering company of neighborhood friends and T.V., my mother introduced me to the wonderful world of literature through child-friendly books, comics, and oral folk tales at a very early age. I grew up spending most of my leisure time in the enriching company of books and literary characters. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">The early and adequate exposure to English language transformed me into enchanted literature lover. As I grew up, my love for reading increased by leaps and bounds and, transformed me into a writer. By the age of eight or nine, while other students in my class were struggling to barely learn the nuances of sentence formation, I was a loner penning down short stories and poetic verses. I remember having a dedicated diary by my bedside while I was in grade 6. By grade 7, I was writing about 7-8 poems every month and the editor of my school magazine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">As years rolled by, I started getting featured in local newspapers and magazines. The appreciation that I received by my teachers, friends and peers boosted my confidence and inculcated in me an unsatiating urge to learn and explore more. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">While I was in college, I started my first ever blog and maintained it meticulously for about 4-5 years. Then the trials and tribulations of everyday life swept away most of my leisure time and blogging relegated to the backdrop. Although I was constantly reminded of writing sojourns by friends, relatives, peers and colleagues who liked frequenting my blogs during their hey days, the urge to finally make a comeback dint creep in. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">And then, many many moons later, today, I have come back to tread on the same path - this time with a new zeal and a new mission - the idea is to make the most of motherhood and document it in the sands of time, before my little bundle of joy is not so little any more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This blog would be solely dedicated to my son(shine) - Kabir and my journey as a Mom. I am really looking forward to a memorable writing spree ahead! </span></span></div>
Mohita Saxenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10440374834140564968noreply@blogger.com0