Shilpi's Blog, page 2

Book Review : From Regular to Remarkable

Title: From Regular to Remarkable : 365 motivational quotes for a positive life
Author: Dr. Roopleen
Published by: Notion Press
Pages: 216
Genre: Motivational Quotes

My Ratings:
Cover: ****
Content: ****
Language: ***
My Review:
The lemony yellow book cover of this book potrays various shades of light and seasons. The sole power of energy to Earth is Sun, and the book provides 365 motivational quote, a quote for each day, a quote for each shade of your life, which I feel is perfect color selected by the author. The author has covered almost every emotion and aspect in the form of chapters, with her motivational quotes.
Some of my favourite are:
"Happiness is not something to be discovered. You weave your own happiness, one knot at a time, when you start accepting, understanding, embracing, and valuing yourself."
"You cannot becomr a remarkable success with a mediocre mindset and a laidback attitude."

There are 365 of them, whatever your mood is, the book has the quote for you. Each quote shows that in depth understanding of the author of all the patterns and emotions we face in life. So I recommend this book, to read it chapter wise, and selection of the chapter should be decided by your mood.

Over all Rating: ***1/2*

Weddings Diary: Episode 4

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Nikhil weds Diksha

Weddings Diary : Episode 3

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Episode 3: Nikhil Weds Diksha

First of all, a very happy new year to all of u.. So naye saal ka first episode hai ye.. sorry for the delay in publishing the 3rd one. Hope you guys have missed me in these couple of days. So. let's continue with the story..Do you think.. everything got settled, family agreed, bride n groom are happy, so it's the end?No! spices are still waiting for you in next turn...and abhi to story shuru honi baaki hai....
In the last episode Diksha met Nikhil's mom, in Singapore. Everything was set. Now, the families wanted them to get married, and even Nikhil wanted too, but who didnt wanted was, Diksha. Yeah! Diksha was ready for this relationship but marriage... mmmm???
Over call:Diksha: No, dear.. am very confused. Yeah I love him, but marriage... You just come to my place.. I need you badly.And she was eagerly waiting for her best friend... and he was at her sight...
Vinayak, Diksha's childhood bestfriend, her problem solver. Chubby fellow, who loves eating, but has solution to every problem.He loves eating, eating and eating. Still a bachelor..
Diksha: Where were you Motu? Why are you always lost when I need you the most. Vinayak: Dont you remember you ditched me in the last dinner for your boy friend.. so I was in an angry modeDiksha: Arey! you very well know I was in Singapore, and it was a sudden planVinayak: I know nothing... I just know, that you spoiled my dinner...grrr and see my generosity I am still here in front of you, in talking terms...Diksha: Now, will you plz stop your melodrama and help me...i am in messVinayak: Pata hai mujhe (i know)..rather I was aware that this situation will arise, and in fact i coudnt understand how you were so late in reacting. Shaadi waadi, tere bass ki cheez nai hai.. but ab haa karke aa gayi hai, to kar le.Diksha: Kya kar le... Is it so much fun... KAR Le... Marr bhi sakti hu... Vinayak: hahahahaha LOL Yeah true.. u can die.. but explain howDiksha: I dont know... help me !.. Should I..How will I manage... Scared yaarVinayak: First get me some snacks n a coffee with full milk... kaali peeli mat pilanaDiksha: Ofcourse Motu...Tu thuss le pehle...Ghar se kha kar kyu nai aaya... (Diksha got irritated)Vinayak was munching and talking..Vinayak: Boss, I still coudnt understand what's the paroblem? Itna stress le kyu rakha hai tune, Aunty is also upset. She called me before you called up...D: Shauk hai mera... nai pata tujhe... V: What?D: stress lenaV: Stop kidding, I dont have spare time... answer my questions so that a solution could be drawnD: AskV: What's is scaring you?D: Yaar, His mom is too particular about everything. Too many responsibilities, have to settle in Singapore etc etc.V: Matlab uski Mom problem hai, ???or her over particular nature... but one sec if you havent fogotten, you are also one of a psycho particular, isnt it?.. D: yeah, might be... i mean, Mom is not a problem, but adjusting in a new environment, acting on her instructions, I dont know how much would be able to take, and later if issues would arise, then? Isnt it better, Shaadi hi naa karu....V: Hahahah (LOL)... wow what a solution! Expected hi hai via your swollen brain... Now, twist the situation.D: how?V: Arent you doing this all your life? What's new in this?D: U mean, shaadi.. pagal ho gaya haiV: No, am not so dumb like you! By the way, when was the last time you took leave without informing your boss. and when was the last you made a plan without informing auty, except that ditching me on my special dinner flying to Singapore...? Yaad kar D: How can I bunk office, I am responsible for my duties, and Mom ko batana, because she cares...V: Exactly dumb lady... the same is what you'll be doing in marriage. There's nothing new, am telling you there's nothing adventurous. Job, relations all demands some time... thoda adjustment and trust, khud par and thoda on others. Trust your partner baby.. everything will be set.D: Yeah, you are right...may beV: see I am always.. but ye may be kyu ????D: (sad face) and leaving Mumbai and U ..my motuV: Achaa badaa dukh ho ra hai mujhe chodhne ka... to ek kaam kar mujhse shaadi kar le... saari tension khatam...D: chiiiii.... eyaak... itna vulgur idea... I'll puke... agreed...was joking...Better ki bhaag jau Mumbai se..Motu......tu best hai yaar... Thank you..V: Chal chal now, give me a hug... and chal lunch karaa baahar.. bill tu pay karegiD: Kitna khaata hai... marr jayegi teri would be wife, kitchen mei hi... chalV: chal chal... tu apni fikar kar Miss particular...
(they both leaves for lunch in their favorite restaurant)
By the way what is happening in Singapore... How is Mr. Nikhil... Udhar bhi kuch syaapa hai kya...Let's see...uhh uh... Are you planning to read the whole story today itself.. Naa ji, thoda to wait karo...abhi boht drama baki hai...Singapore in the next read, till then stay happy, and keep smiling.And if you are liking my stories, then dont forget to like, comment, share and most importantly subscribe my blog...expressions..Let's express.

Weddings Diary

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Nikhil Weds Dikhsha -- Part II ❤❣
Dear readers without any recap, I am quickly going to the second episode of the story. If you want to know what has happened till now, plz refer the part I in the blog, which is the introduction chapter.So after Aditya's suggestion, Nikhil thought its better to directly consult Diksha for the issues behind her disapproval.Nikhil, went straight towards her cabin. With glass walls on all sides it was a see through cabin, decorated very elegantly. She was busy discussing the project with her team. He knocked.Diksha: Ya Nikhil, please come in.Nikhil: HeyDiksha: Please have a seat, and kindly give me 2 minutes.Nikhil: Sure, take your timeAfter clarifying the roles she asked the team to proceed.Diksha: Hi Nikhil, what you like to have: tea or coffee/Nikhil: Black coffee..Diksha calls the pune and ask him for two black coffeesDiksha: so, what made you turn towards my cabin?Nikhil: you really dont know! its your beauty ofcourse(and they both laughed)Jokes apart, but wanted to know why...Diksha: Hmm, you really dont know why..!Nikhil: Am i supposed to know this before handDiksha: Ofcourse Nikhil! How have not noticed the sharp loophole in your project. With that loophole existing, I cannot approve my company to go ahead with this idea.(and she showed him the flaws in his project)Nikhil: Oh Shit! how the damn I have not noticed this. Completely agree with you. So can we together remove this flaw and go ahead with the work.Diksha: Sure we can, but some crucial changes would be needed.Pune knocks at the door.Diksha: Here comes our coffee.Nikhil: Ya... (after a sip) so shall I consider this as a green signal.Diksha: Offcource... but changes to be implemented  (and she smiled)Nikhil: (smiles)..thanks. By the way, take me to dinner tonight. I am not liking the food of the guest house.Diksha: What! ok. See you at 8 pm. Come and pick me .They both had similar tastes, similar mind sets, too much of similarities.
Evening, Nikhil wore a his cool T-shirt and jeans, and Diksha was in the similar attire. Nikhil: Heyy, its cool to see you in casual outfit.Diksha: 5 days in formal dressing, gives me urghh feeling to get dressed again in formals. Lets go casual.They had beautiful chilled out evening, like two buddies meeting after a long time, though it was their first unofficial meeting. Diksha enjoyed Nikhil's company and same was with Nikhil
They started their project after removing all the flaws and issues that were pointed out by her. The project turned out to be a huge success for the company. They both were applauded for their hardwork and teamspirit. While working together, they used to have casual dinners and outing quiet frequently. They were habituated of each other's company, but they never realised that, Cupid has already made them the target.Now, it was the time for Nikhil to leave for Singapore as the assignment was over now. He was happy to be back to his home after 2 long years, but there was something he would miss. On the other hand, Diksha was also upset to know, that Nikhil would leave in a few days.She was  in her cabin. He went to meet her.Nikhil: Heyy! Whats up.. whats your plan for the dayDiksha: Hello NRI! nothing much, just some pending files to be updated. You say, just a few days left, done with your packing etc.Nikhil: Yaar! idhar udhar ki sab baat bol le, jo pucha hai wo bolegi...Dikhsa: KyaaaNikhil: Your plan for the dayDiksha: Bola to nothing muchNikhil: I have a piece of news...Diksha: And ...??Nikhil: I am leaving tomorrow, not after few daysDiksha: Oh! ok....(long pause) but why all of a sudden... i mean u were suppose to go next week. I mean, ok must be some work.. anyways, what should i sayNikhil: Halt! halt! Halt!... kya kya boley ja rahi hai. Ruk ja meri express train...Mom, called up. She warned to come at the earliest, health issues hai Mom koDiksha: Oh, thats sad... Tab to jana hi padega. Happy journey, take care...Nikhil: Ho gaya tera... chal ab apna system off kar... and come with me..Diksha: Kahaa?Nikhil: Aj nasha karke aayi hai, kitne questions puch rahi hai... You r kidnapped for the day sweetheart..Diksha: Acha chal
Nikhil took her for a long drive. There was silence in the car, so Nikhil switched on the music... She was seeing outside her window. She was upset for the news, that Nikhil will be leaving tomorrow and probably she will never see him again.The silence was broken...Nikhil: Boht chup hai tu aaj (you are so silent today). What happened. I think someone is upset after knowing that am leaving early.Diksha: No, not at all. In fact am happy that i dont have to bear your sudden plans. By the way, where are you taking me, Mr. Kidnapper. Am I suppose to shout ...Nikhil: Chilla le... awaz to nikal nai rahi, chillayegi. Dekh apni shakal, seems you'll cry.Diksha turns her face...and wiped her tearsDikhsha: Shut up Nikhil... and obviously I ll feel bad, yaar 2 years you were my best buddy.. Ab kya karungi... :(and he stops the car...Diksha: What happened.... Kaha hai hum?Nikhil: Come out.. we have reached.She was amazed to see the beauty.. they were close to a beautiful lake, surrounded by beautiful mountains.Nikhil then shouted... hey Diksha.. come here and help me... and together they arranged the table and lunch on that. It was all very mesmering for her. Tears rolled from her eyes... Why Nikhil? Why have you done all this? Why are you giving me so many memories, to leave me all alone forever. I cannot handle more.Nikhil: sitting on his knees.. wipe your tears sweetheart, I am not leaving you alone. I am not giving you memories, rather making making memories with you to cherish, when we both will grow old. Diksha ....I want to grow old with you. I want you to give me medicines when I ll cough whole night in my 60s or 70s.Diksha couldnt stop her tears... You r crazy Nikhil. This is the worst words to propose, idiot.Nikhil: and a surprise for youDiksha: Whats that...Nikhil: hhhh no darling, not like this... first say yes and my kiss, then I ll reveal the surprise...Diksha: Yess.. I do love you... and they kissed each otherNikhil: Am not going alone. Mom wants to meet you. and here's your ticket. You are coming along with meDiksha: (couldnt believe) On my God, what are you saying. You planned this when, How, so soon, packing,....Nikhil: shhhhh..... puts his finger on her lips. shhh.. I am there. Just hold my hands, and be with me forever.....And the next day the flew together to Singapore. And this is how there love story began and reached to their weddingBut my dear readers, real story will start in their wedding. So dont forget to attend the wedding of Nikhil and Diksha..If you are liking the story, plz subscribe, like and comment on my blog, to give me more enthu to write for you all. Am signing off now, arrangements karne hai wedding ke... keep reading Weddings Diary, and be safe...

Wedding Diaries

Wedding Diaries  ❤❣


The memories are made in every Indian Wedding. It is not just bond between two souls, but the blend of different cultures. Every Indian wedding, we attend is full of surprises and stories of various people, and not only of the bride and groom. Though it gives a shape to their love story but also opens up the space for other stories to bloom.

I truly felt that every year I attend so many weddings, and observe stories being made in these weddings, so why not capture them and produce it for the world to cherish...I thought to make it a book, but observing the dishoom dishoom in the publishing industry, i thought why not to go with my blog and be available to my readers.
Consider this as the introduction chapter of my Wedding Diaries, and keep scrolling my page #Expressions to know about different stories and characters in different weddings. You can also share your magical experience in any wedding and I will try to include your story in my blog.

The First story in my wedding diary is from Delhi. Nikhil Weds Diksha ❤❣
(Abstract: Nikhil and Diksha met while Diksha was working in a MNC in Mumbai, and Nikhil came for a project from Singapore, and the ice broke between them, love ho gaya. But But but.. we are not discussing the story of bride and groom, just an introduction is needed about them. So that you'll know, aana kidhar hai, shadi kiski hai, and GUESTs kaun hai.... ☺Itna introduction kaafi hai ya you want to know more. Ok I'll give some more details, but baki story in the next blog.So Nikhil and Diksha, met in the board meeting of the company in Mumbai. Love at first sight to bilkul nahi tha, actually kuch tha hi nai. Both of them attended the meeting, it got over. Then both them left for their cabins. But then aisa kya hua ki love ho gaya and now they are getting married. That day it was all normal, there was no thunder, no rain, everything was normal. Now u must be thinking, when did cupid played his role. So my dear cupid had his own plan, when, how, where, everything is planned by him.Mr. Nikhil is a handsome guy, who never go unnoticed by any female. But Madame Dikhsha ambitious and boring, but a perfectionist with work. Attitude itna that she dont count any one else. Now when two similar personalities will clash, crash to banta hai. Everyone else in the meeting approved Nikhil's proposal, except, her and her approval was mandatory. Nikhil on the other hand carries the same high-end attitude. "problem kya hai iss bandi ki, sab ne proposal accept kiya but only she has issues" Nikhil said to Aditya, the GM of the company. Aditya: So why dont you clear your views. Afterall you both have to work on this project, so it is essential that there shouldnt be any scope for misunderstanding, coz otherwise, this would benefit the competitors, which we cannot afford. You very well understand the outcome, so better make her understand.
So.. what will happen, Will Diksha understand? What will Nikhil do? how did the ice between them broke? What has happened that they came in the angle of Cupid's arrows?If you wanna know all these, keep following my blog and see you soon with the next chapter of Nikhil and Diksha ki wedding par...
Till then, stay safe, and have a great day...

Book Review: Blahman Series...Attack of the Zombies

Title: Blahman and the attack of the Zombies
Published by: Notion Press
Avaible: Kindle Edition and Paperback

Cover: Bright and colourful to attract young readers
Approach in the book: is interesting with colourful cartoons that are explained well by the author.
Interestingly at the end of the book, the author gives step by step lessons to draw his cartoons.

A brilliant work by a young author, the kind of clarity and excitement he portrayed in his work is difficult to believe that the author is a school boy. Srijan Kabra is inspiration for all the children for shaping their creativity in right manner. I gave this book to my 11 year old son, and he loved, as it has all the child plus boyish elements present in the story that a child of his age would love to read. And it becomes a treat when it comes with colourful illustrations.
The book is wonderful treat for budding readers. While reading you enter into the amazing world of imagination of a child which inludes, school, friends, Home work,superhero,  robot, zombies, cricket, primcipal, teachers, milk... almost everything. The author introduced a new super hero called Blahman, and his struggle to save school from zombies.

Overall its an interesting read, and recommended for yong readers.
My Rating: ****
Cover: ****
Language: ***
Story: ***
Characters: *****
Kudos to the efforts

Book Review: One Step at a Time

Book: One Step at a Time
Author:Venkat Iyer
Published by: Notion Press
Pages: 150

Blurb of the book

For him, life was replete with tragic incidents one following the other - as if they were rehearsing for the next macabre dance. Even before he could speak up and call out for his mother, life had dealt its first cruel blow. And then, at every stage of his life, whenever he tried to stand up, he was knocked down.

But he refused to surrender.

It took months of pain, years of struggle and decades of determination to regain control of his life, and his body. 

And then, tragedy struck once again...

One Step at a Time is an inspiring narrative of Visu - a man who stood all his life for others, though he himself couldn't stand without support. This is a story of a man who helped many find purpose and meaning in life, though he himself had been wronged by the quirk of fate. 

Let's count Visu's steps along the way. One Step at a Time.

My views on the book

This is the debut book of Venkat Iyer, which he penned down to give a tribute to his parents. The book is one of the sadest book I have ever read, but at the same time gives a strong motivating message to never give up. The story starts from a pre-independent, South Indian village, narrating the lives of three motherless kids and struggles of their father.
The father then moves to Mumbai. Whole of India was struggling for freedom ,this family was also hoping to see good days soon. The eldest son cleared the witten examination of ICS, and soon have to sit for interview. His father had lots of hope attached with his clearing of ICS. The boy was confident but under the pressure of the family needs. After the interview he got high fever and could not sustain for long, and more depreciating was the telegram that said that he cleared the ICS interview. The news was heartbreaking for the father and he also could not survive for long. The youngest of all Visu, was now completely lost and heartbroken. After the performing the rituals of his father he was sitting lost in the dark room, when his brother in law took him outside for a walk. He was so lost that he could judge the tram coming towards him. He lost his leg in this accident...
This was not the end, he continued seeing ups and downs in life. The moment things appeared to be good, an arrow of sorrow was pointed towards him. But Visu, never gave up. He became a proud father of six children and gave a good life to all of them ,and Venkat Iyer is the youngest of all.

I could not stop my tears while turning each page. I was surprised that how someone could face so much of the heartbreaking problems in life and still could fight like a warrior. I consider Visu, a real warrior. 
The book is a short read, which I completed in not more than two hours, but in these two hours, you will grab lot motivation to fight through this book.
Overall, its a good book.
Coverpage: *** I will give 3 stars to the cover page as it could have been much better...
Title: One step at a time... is a good title for the book as it conveys how Visu took each step after the tragedies happened in his life.
Content: ****



Keep reading and keep liking my blogs and reviews. For more book reviews and other exciting articles, keep following my blog.
Dont forget to check my book Innocent Wings, and learn to let your child fly....

https://amzn.to/2I9wNSO

Book Review : The Unexpected Son

Name of the book: The Unexpected  Son
Author: Shobhan Bantwal
Publisher: Finger Print
No. of pages: 328
Genre: Fiction

 Blurb of the book

On a sunny April morning in West Windsor, New Jersey, Vinita Patil wakes up to find an envelope from Mumbai in her mail. The anonymous missive inside it claims that her son is dying of leukaemia and that his survival may depend on her. This confounds Vinita. She has been living with her husband and daughter for twenty-five years in America. She has no son. or does she

Once upon a time, in a small town in India, a middle-class girl fell in love with an upper-class playboy from her college. The torrid affair inevitably ended in a catastrophe that turned her world upside down.

Now, as transgressions from her past threaten to rattle her cozy suburban dream, Vinita must leave behind a family whose faith in her has been shaken and return to her hometown in India that's on the brink of bedlam.

Amidst this turmoil, will Vinita be able to salvage her marriage? or will secrets from the past wreck her world forever? Find out in this riveting tale of one woman's emotional journey back home to make amends for blunders made in her youth. 

About the Author
Shobhan Bantwal is the author of six novels and two anthologies. Her books combine contemporary women's issues with romantic elements. Her articles have appeared in The Writer, Romantic Times, India Abroad, Little India, New Woman and India Currents. Her short fiction has won honours and awards in contests sponsored by Writer's Digest, New York Stories and New Woman magazines. Her debut book, The Dowry Bride, won the 2008 Golden Leaf Award. The Unexpected Son won the 2012 National Indie Excellence Award. Shobhan lives in Arizona, USA.
Review (my view)Cover page: **** The cover page of the book is lovely with a lady engrossed in her thoughts gives a clear picture of the protagonist of the story, Vinita. I found the cover page of the book, quite interesting, apt for the story.
 Narration: ***** the narration of this book is its strongest point. The story has nothing so novel but the way it has been narrated by the author will make you hooked to the book, till it ends. I truly enjoyed the ups and downs faced by Vinita, and life gives her twists and turens. It was beautifully narrated. I recommend this book to all the fiction lovers. I am sure the reader will enjoy the story and roller coaster ride of Vinita's life. Overall rating is **** . 
If you are a fiction lover, then do check this book.

Book Review: Lokpriya Balgeet

Name of the book : Lokpriya Balgeet
Genre: Hindi Rhymes
Published by: Wonder House
Ratings: *****

Abouthe book:
Lokpriya Balgeet is not just a book but a an experience for child. Its padded cover is soft to handle for tiny tots. The embrossed cover gives the feel of characters in the book. It is collection of 12 hindi rhymes with related pictures on the left page of the book. It is colourful, attractive, large font size, and padded cover. The padded cover of the book is what I loved the most. More than me, my little chap who is 5years loved this book. Though he is unable to read the poems, but he is able to relate them with the pictures and reciting on his own.
Overall, it is a good book for primary school children, as they would love the feel and content of this book. The hard pages of the book and padded cover are resistant for manhandling of tiny tots.
I recommend this to the parents of primary schoolers.
Ratings:
Cover: *****
Content: *****

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