Preeti Shenoy's Blog, page 67
December 31, 2013
A new year wish !
There is a tradition that we follow on new years eve. We usher in the new year by lighting the lamp,at 12.00 AM, together as a family and expressing gratitude for all our blessings. It wasn't any different last night.
We lit the antique brass hanging lamp, which hangs from the ceiling in my pooja room, as well as the second lamp that rests on a brass pedestal. We also performed the Arti with camphor and lit incense, to the chant of Sanskrit mantras. And we prayed.
I believe that it is important to express gratitude to the Universe/Higher power/Destiny/God or whatever you want to call it. We have to be grateful for the things that are right in our lives. There is scientific proof and several psychological studies have recorded the impact that expressing gratitude and journaling the things that one is happy about, has on one's over all well-being.
This morning, we woke up early and went to a Venkateshwara temple. I liked what the 'Kolam' said :)
I also liked the way the entire temple was decorated with floral garlands.
Thus began my new year.
And this is my wish for you today . (snap clicked just a little while ago)
Wishing you wisdom, wishing you have a special person to hold your hand through the tough times, wishing you strength to smile when things don't go as you desire and above all the hope that everything is going to work out just fine! A happy new year from The One You Cannot Have as well as from the ones you already have!
____________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
We lit the antique brass hanging lamp, which hangs from the ceiling in my pooja room, as well as the second lamp that rests on a brass pedestal. We also performed the Arti with camphor and lit incense, to the chant of Sanskrit mantras. And we prayed.
I believe that it is important to express gratitude to the Universe/Higher power/Destiny/God or whatever you want to call it. We have to be grateful for the things that are right in our lives. There is scientific proof and several psychological studies have recorded the impact that expressing gratitude and journaling the things that one is happy about, has on one's over all well-being.
This morning, we woke up early and went to a Venkateshwara temple. I liked what the 'Kolam' said :)
I also liked the way the entire temple was decorated with floral garlands.
Thus began my new year.
And this is my wish for you today . (snap clicked just a little while ago)
Wishing you wisdom, wishing you have a special person to hold your hand through the tough times, wishing you strength to smile when things don't go as you desire and above all the hope that everything is going to work out just fine! A happy new year from The One You Cannot Have as well as from the ones you already have!
____________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
December 20, 2013
A festive note from me with some juicy tidbits thrown in :)
Hi there,
How have you been? Has the festive season brought cheer? It has for me--there is such a lot happening in my life! (which is a good thing I suppose even though I miss my own company which I enjoy a lot)
I have just got back from a WONDERFUL family vacation at Singapore. My mother loved it.
That is my favourite snap from the vacation. Clicked at Orchid Garden, where my mom transformed into a little girl, seeing the orchids in full bloom. I think she is more beautiful than the orchids that she admired.
I haven't forgotten that the results of TOUCH Thursday no.4 had to be announced. It is just that I managed to touch base with Westland (my publishers) only yesterday.
And the winner of TOUCH Thursday No.4 is
Anoptimistic whose winning entry is
http://anoptimistic.wordpress.com/2013/10/25/a-lonely-evening-on-beach-a-perfect-date-250-words/
Congratulations! (please mail me your postal address on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and Westland will send you the TOUCH mug.
This morning when I was walking my dog, a lady who had moved in recently into a house at the end of the lane started chatting with me.
"Are you working?" she asked.
"I am a writer," I replied.
"What do you write about?" was her next question.
"I write novels," I said.
"Oh, writers are creative folks aren't they?" she continued.
"I guess", I said and smiled.
She wanted to know the names of my books and I told her to google my name and she would get all details. I find it tiresome to explain to people what I write about.
I find it easier to talk to you all, through my blog.
Does that make me a writer? I guess it does :)
Reminds me of the quote from the movie Indie Game.
"It's why a writer writes---because they can. It's the most effective way they can express themselves."
One of my resolutions for the new year is to write more in this blog. I will try and post more often, than I do now.
What has been happening in your lives? Any exciting plans for hols? Any resolutions? What is the thing that you want to change about yourself? Thought about it?
Do think.
And ACT.
And may the festive season bring tonnes of happiness to you!
Love
Preeti
ps: We set up a Christmas tree even though we do not celebrate Christmas, because I had a lovely tree and it seemed such a shame to do nothing. My mother and my kids decorated it. And I think it looks fabulous! Will post a pic sometime.
____________________________________________________________________
Buy 'The One You Cannot Have' : http://is.gd/TouchAmazonhttp://preetishenoy.com/
How have you been? Has the festive season brought cheer? It has for me--there is such a lot happening in my life! (which is a good thing I suppose even though I miss my own company which I enjoy a lot)
I have just got back from a WONDERFUL family vacation at Singapore. My mother loved it.
That is my favourite snap from the vacation. Clicked at Orchid Garden, where my mom transformed into a little girl, seeing the orchids in full bloom. I think she is more beautiful than the orchids that she admired.
I haven't forgotten that the results of TOUCH Thursday no.4 had to be announced. It is just that I managed to touch base with Westland (my publishers) only yesterday.
And the winner of TOUCH Thursday No.4 is
Anoptimistic whose winning entry is
http://anoptimistic.wordpress.com/2013/10/25/a-lonely-evening-on-beach-a-perfect-date-250-words/
Congratulations! (please mail me your postal address on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and Westland will send you the TOUCH mug.
This morning when I was walking my dog, a lady who had moved in recently into a house at the end of the lane started chatting with me.
"Are you working?" she asked.
"I am a writer," I replied.
"What do you write about?" was her next question.
"I write novels," I said.
"Oh, writers are creative folks aren't they?" she continued.
"I guess", I said and smiled.
She wanted to know the names of my books and I told her to google my name and she would get all details. I find it tiresome to explain to people what I write about.
I find it easier to talk to you all, through my blog.
Does that make me a writer? I guess it does :)
Reminds me of the quote from the movie Indie Game.
"It's why a writer writes---because they can. It's the most effective way they can express themselves."
One of my resolutions for the new year is to write more in this blog. I will try and post more often, than I do now.
What has been happening in your lives? Any exciting plans for hols? Any resolutions? What is the thing that you want to change about yourself? Thought about it?
Do think.
And ACT.
And may the festive season bring tonnes of happiness to you!
Love
Preeti
ps: We set up a Christmas tree even though we do not celebrate Christmas, because I had a lovely tree and it seemed such a shame to do nothing. My mother and my kids decorated it. And I think it looks fabulous! Will post a pic sometime.
____________________________________________________________________
Buy 'The One You Cannot Have' : http://is.gd/TouchAmazonhttp://preetishenoy.com/
A festive note from me with some juicy tidbits thrown in :)
Hi there,
How have you been? Has the festive season brought cheer? It has for me--there is such a lot happening in my life! (which is a good thing I suppose even though I miss my own company which I enjoy a lot)
I have just got back from a WONDERFUL family vacation at Singapore. My mother loved it.
That is my favourite snap from the vacation. Clicked at Orchid Garden, where my mom transformed into a little girl, seeing the orchids in full bloom. I think she is more beautiful than the orchids that she admired.
I haven't forgotten that the results of TOUCH Thursday no.4 had to be announced. It is just that I managed to touch base with Westland (my publishers) only yesterday.
And the winner of TOUCH Thursday No.4 is
Anoptimistic whose winning entry is
http://anoptimistic.wordpress.com/2013/10/25/a-lonely-evening-on-beach-a-perfect-date-250-words/
Congratulations! (please mail me your postal address on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and Westland will send you the TOUCH mug.
This morning when I was walking my dog, a lady who had moved in recently into a house at the end of the lane started chatting with me.
"Are you working?" she asked.
"I am a writer," I replied.
"What do you write about?" was her next question.
"I write novels," I said.
"Oh, writers are creative folks aren't they?" she continued.
"I guess", I said and smiled.
She wanted to know the names of my books and I told her to google my name and she would get all details. I find it tiresome to explain to people what I write about.
I find it easier to talk to you all, through my blog.
Does that make me a writer? I guess it does :)
Reminds me of the quote from the movie Indie Game.
"It's why a writer writes---because they can. It's the most effective way they can express themselves."
One of my resolutions for the new year is to write more in this blog. I will try and post more often, than I do now.
What has been happening in your lives? Any exciting plans for hols? Any resolutions? What is the thing that you want to change about yourself? Thought about it?
Do think.
And ACT.
And may the festive season bring tonnes of happiness to you!
Love
Preeti
ps: We set up a Christmas tree even though we do not celebrate Christmas, because I had a lovely tree and it seemed such a shame to do nothing. My mother and my kids decorated it. And I think it looks fabulous! Will post a pic sometime.
____________________________________________________________________
Buy 'The One You Cannot Have' : http://is.gd/TouchAmazonhttp://preetishenoy.com/
How have you been? Has the festive season brought cheer? It has for me--there is such a lot happening in my life! (which is a good thing I suppose even though I miss my own company which I enjoy a lot)
I have just got back from a WONDERFUL family vacation at Singapore. My mother loved it.
That is my favourite snap from the vacation. Clicked at Orchid Garden, where my mom transformed into a little girl, seeing the orchids in full bloom. I think she is more beautiful than the orchids that she admired.
I haven't forgotten that the results of TOUCH Thursday no.4 had to be announced. It is just that I managed to touch base with Westland (my publishers) only yesterday.
And the winner of TOUCH Thursday No.4 is
Anoptimistic whose winning entry is
http://anoptimistic.wordpress.com/2013/10/25/a-lonely-evening-on-beach-a-perfect-date-250-words/
Congratulations! (please mail me your postal address on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and Westland will send you the TOUCH mug.
This morning when I was walking my dog, a lady who had moved in recently into a house at the end of the lane started chatting with me.
"Are you working?" she asked.
"I am a writer," I replied.
"What do you write about?" was her next question.
"I write novels," I said.
"Oh, writers are creative folks aren't they?" she continued.
"I guess", I said and smiled.
She wanted to know the names of my books and I told her to google my name and she would get all details. I find it tiresome to explain to people what I write about.
I find it easier to talk to you all, through my blog.
Does that make me a writer? I guess it does :)
Reminds me of the quote from the movie Indie Game.
"It's why a writer writes---because they can. It's the most effective way they can express themselves."
One of my resolutions for the new year is to write more in this blog. I will try and post more often, than I do now.
What has been happening in your lives? Any exciting plans for hols? Any resolutions? What is the thing that you want to change about yourself? Thought about it?
Do think.
And ACT.
And may the festive season bring tonnes of happiness to you!
Love
Preeti
ps: We set up a Christmas tree even though we do not celebrate Christmas, because I had a lovely tree and it seemed such a shame to do nothing. My mother and my kids decorated it. And I think it looks fabulous! Will post a pic sometime.
____________________________________________________________________
Buy 'The One You Cannot Have' : http://is.gd/TouchAmazonhttp://preetishenoy.com/
December 11, 2013
A book launch and a note from Singapore.
Hi there.
This is a quick post typed in under ten minutes from Singapore (where I am currently on vacation) using the complimentary hotel wi-fi with a speed so good, you would think you are in a GTA game, driving a Mc.Laren F1, the scenery whizzing past in a blur, zooming from 0 to 180 in 8 seconds flat, adrenaline coursing through your veins with heart pounding madly. I could shift to Singapore, just for the Internet speeds.
The Book launch of 'The One You Cannot have' (on 6th December at Royal orchid Bangalore) went off marvelously. It was a memorable event--easily one of the best book launches I have ever had. Every single person who attended it, would agree. There was warmth, camaraderie and a spirit of celebration.
Dr.Shyam Bhat (Psychiatrist and Integrative Medicine specialist) and Vani Mahesh (founder of Easylib) were in conversation with me, about the book. They were both splendid and gracious.
A few readers, who attended the launch blogged about it. You can read two of the posts about the launch, in the links below:
http://ayusheeghoshal.blogspot.in/2013/12/the-one-you-cannot-have-book-launch-to_8.html
http://justbeingsiji.blogspot.in/2013/12/preeti-shenoys-book-launch.html
This is a picture of me, clicked just before I left home, for the launch.
And here are a few more pictures from the launch
Umesh and Vimala Malhotra (Founders of Hippocampus, Bangalore )
Signing the books, after the event
Shinie Antony (an amazing author. I totally love her writing style and her books) and Vani Mahesh. We had a GREAT time.
For more pictures from the launch go here
The launch was covered by Bangalore times as well as Deccan Chronicle.
The book has been getting some amazing reviews (you can check them out here and here ) , and I was thrilled to see it on number 10 in the Amazon bestseller list.
You also ought to see the book at all the leading book-stores in India. (if you don't find it, please let me know :) ) Some select Cafe Coffee Days too are selling my book!
Pic by Saffin Mathew
All in all, I am glad that my 5th baby, has got a grand welcome into this world.
So a large thank you to every single one who made an effort to attend my launch! And also a big thank you to each and every one who bought my book.
And with that I sign off. I am heading towards all the fabulous malls in Singapore, planning to shop till I drop!
Ciao! Will write again soon.
Till then--keep that sunny smile.
Preeti
____________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
This is a quick post typed in under ten minutes from Singapore (where I am currently on vacation) using the complimentary hotel wi-fi with a speed so good, you would think you are in a GTA game, driving a Mc.Laren F1, the scenery whizzing past in a blur, zooming from 0 to 180 in 8 seconds flat, adrenaline coursing through your veins with heart pounding madly. I could shift to Singapore, just for the Internet speeds.
The Book launch of 'The One You Cannot have' (on 6th December at Royal orchid Bangalore) went off marvelously. It was a memorable event--easily one of the best book launches I have ever had. Every single person who attended it, would agree. There was warmth, camaraderie and a spirit of celebration.
Dr.Shyam Bhat (Psychiatrist and Integrative Medicine specialist) and Vani Mahesh (founder of Easylib) were in conversation with me, about the book. They were both splendid and gracious.
A few readers, who attended the launch blogged about it. You can read two of the posts about the launch, in the links below:
http://ayusheeghoshal.blogspot.in/2013/12/the-one-you-cannot-have-book-launch-to_8.html
http://justbeingsiji.blogspot.in/2013/12/preeti-shenoys-book-launch.html
This is a picture of me, clicked just before I left home, for the launch.
And here are a few more pictures from the launch
Umesh and Vimala Malhotra (Founders of Hippocampus, Bangalore ) 
Signing the books, after the event
Shinie Antony (an amazing author. I totally love her writing style and her books) and Vani Mahesh. We had a GREAT time.For more pictures from the launch go here
The launch was covered by Bangalore times as well as Deccan Chronicle.
The book has been getting some amazing reviews (you can check them out here and here ) , and I was thrilled to see it on number 10 in the Amazon bestseller list.
You also ought to see the book at all the leading book-stores in India. (if you don't find it, please let me know :) ) Some select Cafe Coffee Days too are selling my book!
Pic by Saffin MathewAll in all, I am glad that my 5th baby, has got a grand welcome into this world.
So a large thank you to every single one who made an effort to attend my launch! And also a big thank you to each and every one who bought my book.
And with that I sign off. I am heading towards all the fabulous malls in Singapore, planning to shop till I drop!
Ciao! Will write again soon.
Till then--keep that sunny smile.
Preeti
____________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
December 4, 2013
Updates from my end, including Bangalore Launch of 'The One You Cannot Have'
So, the Forbes India Celebrity 100 Nominees List for 2013 is just out.
Only 10 authors have made it to the longlist including, yours truly.
A question I keep getting asked is 'How does it feel'?
I do feel proud and happy and also very grateful to all who read me. I also feel a sense of achievement .That's about it! How else am I supposed to feel ? :)
In the other news, TWO of my titles were in the Nielsen Top ten. The One You Cannot Have opened at No.2 !
The reviews have been fabulous (also read the reviews on goodreads ) and the mails praising the book have been pouring in. Many people are telling me that it is a 'must-read' for anyone who has broken up. They tell me that it feels like their story. I am delighted that it has struck a chord.
My publishers came up with this poster!
Indigo 91.9 fm which is Bangalore's only English radio station (I listen to it a lot--they play some awesome music) are putting me on air tomrrow between 11 and 2. I will be in conversation with RJ Shagufta. If you are in bangalore, tune in. You could even win signed copies of the book. :)
To celebrate the success of the book, we are having a grand launch at The Royal Orchid, Bangalore, tomorrow. (6th december 2013). If you are in Bangalore, I would love it if you join me. Kindly mail me on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and I would be happy to send you an invite with all details!
I am looking forward to it--it is going to be fab! :)
_________________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
Only 10 authors have made it to the longlist including, yours truly.
A question I keep getting asked is 'How does it feel'?
I do feel proud and happy and also very grateful to all who read me. I also feel a sense of achievement .That's about it! How else am I supposed to feel ? :)
In the other news, TWO of my titles were in the Nielsen Top ten. The One You Cannot Have opened at No.2 !
The reviews have been fabulous (also read the reviews on goodreads ) and the mails praising the book have been pouring in. Many people are telling me that it is a 'must-read' for anyone who has broken up. They tell me that it feels like their story. I am delighted that it has struck a chord.
My publishers came up with this poster!
Indigo 91.9 fm which is Bangalore's only English radio station (I listen to it a lot--they play some awesome music) are putting me on air tomrrow between 11 and 2. I will be in conversation with RJ Shagufta. If you are in bangalore, tune in. You could even win signed copies of the book. :)
To celebrate the success of the book, we are having a grand launch at The Royal Orchid, Bangalore, tomorrow. (6th december 2013). If you are in Bangalore, I would love it if you join me. Kindly mail me on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and I would be happy to send you an invite with all details!
I am looking forward to it--it is going to be fab! :)
_________________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
Updates from my end, including Bangalore Launch of 'The One You Cannot Have'
So, the Forbes India Celebrity 100 Nominees List for 2013 is just out.
Only 10 authors have made it to the longlist including, yours truly.
A question I keep getting asked is 'How does it feel'?
I do feel proud and happy and also very grateful to all who read me. I also feel a sense of achievement .That's about it! How else am I supposed to feel ? :)
In the other news, TWO of my titles were in the Nielsen Top ten. The One You Cannot Have opened at No.2 !
The reviews have been fabulous (also read the reviews on goodreads ) and the mails praising the book have been pouring in. Many people are telling me that it is a 'must-read' for anyone who has broken up. They tell me that it feels like their story. I am delighted that it has struck a chord.
My publishers came up with this poster!
Indigo 91.9 fm which is Bangalore's only English radio station (I listen to it a lot--they play some awesome music) are putting me on air tomrrow between 11 and 2. I will be in conversation with RJ Shagufta. If you are in bangalore, tune in. You could even win signed copies of the book. :)
To celebrate the success of the book, we are having a grand launch at The Royal Orchid, Bangalore, tomorrow. (6th december 2013). If you are in Bangalore, I would love it if you join me. Kindly mail me on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and I would be happy to send you an invite with all details!
I am looking forward to it--it is going to be fab! :)
_________________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
Only 10 authors have made it to the longlist including, yours truly.
A question I keep getting asked is 'How does it feel'?
I do feel proud and happy and also very grateful to all who read me. I also feel a sense of achievement .That's about it! How else am I supposed to feel ? :)
In the other news, TWO of my titles were in the Nielsen Top ten. The One You Cannot Have opened at No.2 !
The reviews have been fabulous (also read the reviews on goodreads ) and the mails praising the book have been pouring in. Many people are telling me that it is a 'must-read' for anyone who has broken up. They tell me that it feels like their story. I am delighted that it has struck a chord.
My publishers came up with this poster!
Indigo 91.9 fm which is Bangalore's only English radio station (I listen to it a lot--they play some awesome music) are putting me on air tomrrow between 11 and 2. I will be in conversation with RJ Shagufta. If you are in bangalore, tune in. You could even win signed copies of the book. :)
To celebrate the success of the book, we are having a grand launch at The Royal Orchid, Bangalore, tomorrow. (6th december 2013). If you are in Bangalore, I would love it if you join me. Kindly mail me on ps(at)preetishenoy(dot)com and I would be happy to send you an invite with all details!
I am looking forward to it--it is going to be fab! :)
_________________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
Amazon: http://is.gd/AmazonTouch
http://preetishenoy.com/
November 27, 2013
From a father to his son.
A Guest Post by Satish
Been a long time since I wrote on Preeti’s blog so thought I would give it a go. I could not have chosen a better day.
It was on this day sixteen years back that he arrived in this world. The Doctor said he would arrive the previous day, but he did not feel like it. Guess it was nice, warm and cozy inside, and our man was in no hurry to exert himself. When he did pop out he was so outraged to have been disturbed that he let out a bellow so loud that the hospital shook. The first couple of months were a nightmare. He would not sleep in the night and wanted attention all the time. He just would not sleep for more than a few minutes. Preeti and I would grab a few minutes of sleep when we could and it was tiring. He would make some of the most horrible faces but when he smiled or gurgled, it was plain beautiful.
After the initial few months he became a model baby. Would eat on time, sleep on time and shower everyone with wide smiles which would simply charm them. I remember once we went to the nearby grocery store and some of the store boys kept staring at us and giggling. When I looked up I realised he was raising his eyebrows repeatedly at them and flashing smiles. He was such a cute baby.
Atul as a babyTotal strangers came to talk to him, including once when a pretty lady crossed the road to feed him a marshmallow and grab his cheeks saying ‘what a sweetheart’. Note here that Dad was standing there, in fact carrying him, waiting for someone to offer him a marshmallow but no one even thought of offering let alone feeding me. Imagine! It’s such a cruel world.
Over the years I remember most incidents in his life. Like when he had a fever or when he fell and hurt himself (and needed six stitches on his head) or when he participated in a school play. My heart always swelled with pride when I saw him and I pushed him harder to get him to excel.
Atul as a child, in his dad's shoesI also worried for him and wanted to protect him from any pain not realizing that I may not have been letting him spread his wings and fly. Maybe a part of me subconsciously did not want him to fly away and I wanted to keep him close to my heart. Hindsight is a great thing and I can think of a million ways in which I could have been a better father. He knows that I love him but at times I realise he gets frustrated with me for being over protective. I have felt the same way with my Dad. Whether fear and protectiveness is the generation gap or a part of growing up, I cannot say.
Atul had won the first prize at school for clay modelling. This is what he had made.He is one of the most intelligent kids I have ever seen and his brilliant questions since he was a little boy have often stumped me. Like when watching TV he asked me why a channel was called Star Plus (and not just Star) or why shadows are black and not in colour! A number of times when Preeti and I have been stuck with how to do something with a new gadget, this kid would sort it out in two seconds. Every teacher of his till date has said that he has a razor sharp mind, is charismatic, witty and to boot charms all the ladies.
He has always been so mature for his age. Like on his 9thbirthday when he said he did not want any presents but instead wanted us to sponsor a meal and some gifts for the children at an orphanage. Many people have even called us up and said our kids were extremely well behaved and that he in particular took care of his sister so well during a party. He is also so generous by heart, including as a child giving his school jacket to his sister to avoid her getting punished and taking the punishment on himself (Preeti wrote about this incident in 34 B&C). He is very protective about his sister and my heart swelled with pride when he bashed a bigger kid for picking on her and hitting her. Out aloud I said he should not have hit the other child, but in my mind I did a few high fives and cartwheels with supreme parental pride.
Atul and Lostris whom he adores.Years flew and he grew. He’s now taller than me. Earlier my baby used to stand on his toes to be taller than me and still fall short. Suddenly one day he was taller.
Atul and SatishAm sure he will grow even more than he is not only in height but also in stature. He is dedicated at what he does. On topics that interest him he does a huge amount of research and knows his stuff inside out. During his boards there were days when he studied late in the night and was up again early morning even though he was exhausted.
Working out has been his passion and he is on the way to six packs very soon. His latest fancy (and I get nightmares about him driving on the unsafe Bangalore roads) is getting a motor bike. He has been relentlessly pestering Preeti and me and it’s currently been postponed till he turns 18.
I am his father and he will always remain my baby but there are so many things I learn from him. Like how to love unconditionally, being self-confident, how not to be selfish and above all pursuing your interests with passion. Happy 16th Birthday, my Darling Atul.
Atul--clicked today (27th November 2013)You have turned out to be such a fine young man. My heart bursts with such pride and love for you. I may not express it very often but Son, I adore you. You are my world. As your name suggests may you always be incomparable and continue to be a fantastic human being. Proud of you my darling son.
Love, Dad_________________________________________________________________
http://preetishenoy.com/
November 13, 2013
Signing of 'The One You Cannot Have.'
'Preeti, the books have arrived. Around 3000 copies will reach your home at 5.30 pm. It's a request--could you please sign 1500 copies by tomorrow morning? Because they have to be dispatched to places all across India.'
This was the regional manager of Westland speaking to me, on Monday afternoon.
I was flabbergasted. How in the world would I be able to sign 1500 copies by next morning?
It was excessive pressure on me. It seemed like an inexecutable task.
I told him that I will do as many as is humanly possible.
The boxes arrived. There were about 50 of them.
I called up Satish at work and told him my predicament.
"Don't worry baby. You can do it. I will come and help you,' he said.
He was true to his word. He came early from work to help me unpack the boxes.
"How will I sign so many by tomorrow morning?" I asked, still skeptical.
"If it has to be done, it has to be done. Just think, so many people are waiting to read this. Let's just do it," he said.
We cleared six seater rectangular dining table .
This is how it looked before we began.
Then Satish started piling up the books in neat piles of 15 books stacked on top of each other, in a pile.
I began signing.
And signing
And signing.
It was back-breaking work. After a while my hands hurt, my neck hurt and my vision started blurring.
I took a short break.
Each time I felt down and out, and felt that i could not go on any more, I recalled a post that I had written-- "Why i sign my books with love."
Satish was with me for a huge part of it. As soon as I finished signing he would pack them away and say something encouraging. He was my strength. I couldn't have done it without him.
This is what he said on facebook:
By 10.30 PM, I began running a fever. I took a Combiflam and I continued signing. I had given my word that I would complete it.
By 1.00 AM, I asked Satish to go and sleep. The next day was a working day. He left reluctantly.
By 1.30 am, I positively wanted to curl up and go to sleep and never wake up.
I think my dog realised what I was feeling. She kept me company through out.
She put her head on my arms. She could sense what I was feeling. She knew I was down.
I signed till 2.45 am and then I went out like a light--utterly exhausted.
I had finished about 18 boxes.
I woke up in the morning at 5..45 am. And began signing again.
By 11.30 am, I had signed the required number. They were promptly picked up by Westland.
I woke up this morning at 4.45 am. There were still 1500 more copies to be signed. This was my view.
I continued signing upto about 11.00 am, this morning, and now I am finally done, signing the pre-orders.
My hands are numb, my neck hurts, my whole body is sore and I am still running a fever.
It is such a mixed feeling--triumph, happiness, pain, exhaustion, a sense of achievement and awe of how much the human spirit is really capable of achieving, even when the odds are against you.
A big thanks to all of you who pre-ordered. You shall be getting your signed copies soon.
Signed with a lot of care and love.
From my home to yours.
I sincerely hope you enjoy the book.
With love
Preeti
____________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
http://preetishenoy.com/
This was the regional manager of Westland speaking to me, on Monday afternoon.
I was flabbergasted. How in the world would I be able to sign 1500 copies by next morning?
It was excessive pressure on me. It seemed like an inexecutable task.
I told him that I will do as many as is humanly possible.
The boxes arrived. There were about 50 of them.
I called up Satish at work and told him my predicament.
"Don't worry baby. You can do it. I will come and help you,' he said.
He was true to his word. He came early from work to help me unpack the boxes.
"How will I sign so many by tomorrow morning?" I asked, still skeptical.
"If it has to be done, it has to be done. Just think, so many people are waiting to read this. Let's just do it," he said.
We cleared six seater rectangular dining table .
This is how it looked before we began.
Then Satish started piling up the books in neat piles of 15 books stacked on top of each other, in a pile.
I began signing.
And signing
And signing.
It was back-breaking work. After a while my hands hurt, my neck hurt and my vision started blurring.
I took a short break.
Each time I felt down and out, and felt that i could not go on any more, I recalled a post that I had written-- "Why i sign my books with love."
Satish was with me for a huge part of it. As soon as I finished signing he would pack them away and say something encouraging. He was my strength. I couldn't have done it without him.
This is what he said on facebook:
By 10.30 PM, I began running a fever. I took a Combiflam and I continued signing. I had given my word that I would complete it.
By 1.00 AM, I asked Satish to go and sleep. The next day was a working day. He left reluctantly.
By 1.30 am, I positively wanted to curl up and go to sleep and never wake up.
I think my dog realised what I was feeling. She kept me company through out.
She put her head on my arms. She could sense what I was feeling. She knew I was down.
I signed till 2.45 am and then I went out like a light--utterly exhausted.
I had finished about 18 boxes.
I woke up in the morning at 5..45 am. And began signing again.
By 11.30 am, I had signed the required number. They were promptly picked up by Westland.
I woke up this morning at 4.45 am. There were still 1500 more copies to be signed. This was my view.
I continued signing upto about 11.00 am, this morning, and now I am finally done, signing the pre-orders.
My hands are numb, my neck hurts, my whole body is sore and I am still running a fever.
It is such a mixed feeling--triumph, happiness, pain, exhaustion, a sense of achievement and awe of how much the human spirit is really capable of achieving, even when the odds are against you.
A big thanks to all of you who pre-ordered. You shall be getting your signed copies soon.
Signed with a lot of care and love.
From my home to yours.
I sincerely hope you enjoy the book.
With love
Preeti
____________________________________________________________________
Get TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
http://preetishenoy.com/
November 6, 2013
How to get a teenager to clean their room.
"Mom, now that I have finished my studies, can I have the i-pad that you put away?"
"I'll just give it to you."
15 minutes later.
"Mom, can i have the i-pad?"
"Yes. Wait."
10 minutes later.
"Mom , you said I could have the i-pad. Can you at least tell me, where you hid it?"
"I will give it to you."
12 minutes later.
"Mom, please can I have the i-pad?"
"Yes. I will. Will do it in a bit."
10 minutes later.
"MOM--are you even listening to me? Or are you in a zombie mode?"
"Shhh..I am reading. Let me finish this"
5 minutes later
"Mom--are you done? I pad please?"
"I am not yet done. 5 minutes. I promise."
5 minutes later.
"Mom--five minutes are over."
"Oh is it? Just coming."
"MOM- I want the I-pad. PLEASE!"
"Now you know exactly how I feel when I ask you to clean your room."
"AAAAAAAAAARGH."
Round one to preeti shenoy :)
Stay tuned for further updates :)
_________________________________________________________________
Pre order TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have) Out In 10 days!! :)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
http://preetishenoy.com/
November 1, 2013
TOUCH Thursdays. Conclusion
Hi all,
Apologies for being unable to update yesterday. There were a couple of personal emergencies which cropped up and had to be taken care of. (and hopefully all will be well soon)
Meanwhile, we have been getting a lot of requests for moving the contests to Facebook--as many people want a chance to win the TOUCH mugs and they find the writing prompts hard.
Since we have already done four Touch Thursdays, by popular demand, the contests for TOUCH mug are now moved to my Facebook Author page.
(Recently we crossed a 20,000 likes. A milestone of sorts)
The results of TOUCH Thursday number four will be announced soon.
All the winners will get a TOUCH Mug and the winning entries will be showcased on the Westland blog, as well as the links will be tweeted by Westland.
A hearty congrats to not only the winners, but to everyone who took part! I am certain you all had fun. (I sure did, reading all the posts).
I shall write again soon. (The books are to arrive at my home soon! The pre-orders will be signed--and I am getting ready for a lot of signing like the last time!)
Stay tuned--and I shall write again soon!
Love
Preeti.
______________________________________________________
Pre order TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
http://preetishenoy.com/
Apologies for being unable to update yesterday. There were a couple of personal emergencies which cropped up and had to be taken care of. (and hopefully all will be well soon)
Meanwhile, we have been getting a lot of requests for moving the contests to Facebook--as many people want a chance to win the TOUCH mugs and they find the writing prompts hard.
Since we have already done four Touch Thursdays, by popular demand, the contests for TOUCH mug are now moved to my Facebook Author page.
(Recently we crossed a 20,000 likes. A milestone of sorts)
The results of TOUCH Thursday number four will be announced soon.
All the winners will get a TOUCH Mug and the winning entries will be showcased on the Westland blog, as well as the links will be tweeted by Westland.
A hearty congrats to not only the winners, but to everyone who took part! I am certain you all had fun. (I sure did, reading all the posts).
I shall write again soon. (The books are to arrive at my home soon! The pre-orders will be signed--and I am getting ready for a lot of signing like the last time!)
Stay tuned--and I shall write again soon!
Love
Preeti.
______________________________________________________
Pre order TOUCH! (The One You Cannot Have)
Crossword: http://is.gd/Touchcrossword
Flipkart: http://is.gd/TouchFlipkart
Landmark: http://is.gd/TouchLandmark
Infibeam: http://is.gd/TouchInfibeam
Uread: http://is.gd/TouchUread (Uread ships internationally too)
http://preetishenoy.com/
