Travels....and more

Building a home for Mr Fan, Pinghu, China

2011-05-31T06:03:00.000-05:00

This time our mission was to build a home for Mr Fan (pronounced faan). He is an older disabled gentleman who was unable to marry because he was poor. Mr Fan was a jolly old man who was loved by the community. He was being looked after by the neighbors but had no accomodations of his own.

The town is Pinghu is outside Shanghai (About 90 minutes by car). We would travel by bus every morning until drop off point and then walk through the fields to get to the build site. The homes were made of brick and mortar very similar to my build in India. The challenge was using string as a leveling method to make sure the wall line was straight.
I noticed initially that the Chinese folks are very reserved and shy so wasn't sure how to approach them. After a few hours passed, and after we started laying brick, making cement mixture and laying down row after row, Mr Fan and the rest of the community started coming out and making eye contact. As soon as I took a picture and showed it to some of the older ladies, they started giggling and smiling (almost blushing).

This was so cute and so strange to me but then I realized that they were just shy. On day two they were out and waiting to meet us and on day three, I started missing them and feeling bad to leave.

I still wonder how I made such a bond with strangers when I didnt even speak their language, and I think it was in their emotions and gratitude and the look in their eyes.

They were incredibly grateful and this made us all feel a unique sense of attachment that is hard to explain.

My only desire was to stay longer and work on more houses for them. God bless the community of Pinghu and I hope we filled their lives with as much joy as they did ours.

Building a home for Wanida in Chiang Mai, Thailand

2009-12-19T10:41:00.024-05:00

I was so fortunate to be selected to go to Thailand this year for the Habitat Build. It was 66 people traveling to Chiang Mai which is a city North of Thailand. We flew from Atlanta to Narita and then from Narita to Bangkok and then from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Looooong journey but worth every second.

We were tasked with building a total of 6 homes and this was part of an 82 home build with Delta Air Lines and the Jimmy Carter Foundation. Jimmy & Rosalind Carter were both present and I saw Jimmy working in the hot sun, mixing cement. Truly amazing couple and people.

On the first day we had a fun excursion planned to the Elephant Reserve -- very nice and I just loved the elephants! Monday was our first day of hard work and the sun was hot at 90 plus degrees. I was the leader of team "Bandanas" and we were assigned to house number 34!

The home was around 300 square feet, one external sink and one external kitchen. Foundation was laid and our job was to build with concrete blocks. uptil row 26. Then we had to get the roof up and the tiles and finally finish up with doors and windows. In all honesty, the first day was pretty chaotic -- too many chiefs and order givers and not enough teamwork. My house had 8 people from Delta, 4 from native thailand, 1 Habitat contractor, 1 block leader & 5 others from different parts of US and the world. Thats too many people! So at around 11 am, I called a team meeting under the tree and established some rules -- Rule 1: Only the construction lead gives instructions Rule 2: We will each be assigned areas like walls, doors, windows, grouting, mixing cement and we will each stick to our areas. Rule 3: we will keep ourselves hydrated and make sure we help each other out and take care of each other.

Things started getting smooth as we went along. Soon we were gelling and by day 2 we were rocking and rolling. By day 3 our house was ahead of most others. I have to mention that I had a fainting/passing out episode on Day 1 in the afternoon -- I drank a ton of water but I ended up going to the medical tent and then back to the hotel where I slept until the next morning. The doctors called it soem kind of Heat Stroke-Exhaustion. I heard that it was almost 100 degress that first day and I knew I had to be careful. So I decided to rest and after my rest, I was back on day 2 and then good to go. My co-team Cheryl was great and she helped me out a great deal. The rest of my team were rock stars too -- Ed and Alex, the married couple who worked at Delta for 31 years. David Hamm who had great engineering skills and was nick named the "scaffolding cat". CK, my pilot friend who was with me on the Chile build as well. Jane who was Miss congeniality and added humor to every day. Debbie, our lawyer and grouter, Belinda our Red Coat and Francis from Philli. Kirk from China and John from Tampa were also very good. I was very lucky to be working with such awesome people and I will always remember the moments I shared and everything I learned.

The lady in the picture with me is the home owner Wanida. With the help of a translator and learing some Thai myself like Sawa dee ka (hello), Kap kun kha (thank you so much)...I began to start conversations with her. She is 50 and this is the first time in her life that she will have a roof over her head. She is a tailor and also does some landscaping. She wanted her plants planted in certain spots and she was right on in terms of light and shade plants so I knew that gardening was a passion for her. Wanida has been HIV positive for 15 years but has been recieving the medications and is living a happy life. She has one daughter who made me a lovely bookmark that had a beautiful elephant drawing. Wanida was such a nice person -- so greateful and so loving and sweet. She worked hand in hand with us every day. On the last day we gave her the key to her home and she cried and hugged me -- I will never forget the emotion I felt when I hugged her. I cried a lot and again felt grateful and blessed for what I have today.

I wished her many happy years in her new home and told her I would loved come back to visit and have dinner some day. She said she would make me her special chicken curry.

Guide to perfect 2 day weekend in Argentina

2009-10-24T07:58:00.014-05:00

So I was in Buenos Aires Argentina a couple weekends ago and decided that I had to blog the itinerary for the perfect 2 day weekend in Argentina. You will not be dissappointed!! I have to thank Cindy Espinoza for it and Jonathan for indulging my escapades including the obsessive trying on of boots which there are plenty of in Buenos Aires. So go to Argentina for the weekend. Its doable! Follow this itinerary and you will come back happy!

Arrive Saturday morning:

If you work have starwood points, stay at the Sheraton Libratador. Fly in Friday night and you will arrive into Buenos Aires in style and rested by 8:30 am. Ask the hotel to hold your bags and walk down to Florida Street. Shops and restaurants will just be opening. Its your time to explore the area and and grab a coffee or a snack. Walk all the way to Casa Rosada (The Pink House). See the famous balcony that Evita stood on as she sang "Dont cry for me Argentina (ok, that was only in the musical -- but you get the point).

Lunch on Sat: Go to La Boca. Cab rides are cheap. You can spend hours here. Its the street with colorful houses. I have never seen a street more colorful. You will see multiple cafes, bars and Argentine Tango dancers on the street. Get some poses with the dancers!! Walk around and check out the local artists and their works. Try the Empanadas -- yummmmm and Quilmes (local beer). Check out the leather goods. When you have had enough, take a cab to the Recoleta area where the Cemeteries are. These are a must see.

The Recoleta Cemetery includes graves of some of the most influential and important Argentinians, including several presidents, scientists, and wealthy characters. Internationally, Eva Perón is the best-known person buried in this cemetery.
The entrance to the cemetery is through neo-classical gates with tall Greek columns. The cemetery contains many elaborate marble mausoleums, decorated with statues, in a wide variety of architectural styles. The entire cemetery is laid out in sections like city blocks, with wide tree-lined main walkways branching into sidewalks filled with mausoleums.
After exploring this area, its probably time for an evening of rest or refreshment before heading to the best steak restaurant in BA.

Dinner on Saturday:

Since you are in Argentina, you have to try a fine restaurant for Stealk and Malbec. Take a cab to La Cabrera located in the Palermo area. This came highly recommended by Cindy and by NY Times. Best cut of meat and Malbec I've had yet.

http://travel.nytimes.com/travel/guides/central-and-south-america/argentina/buenos-aires/60725/la-cabrera/restaurant-detail.html

http://thepauperedchef.com/2009/01/la-cabrera.html

Note that there are 2 La Cabrera's across the street from each other. Either is fine. One of them had classy tables set out on the sidewalk and I believe requires a reservation. 8 or 8:30 is the right time for dinner. After 9 it will be very crowded however I hear that they serve champage to all guests that are waiting for tables :-).

Sunday Morning:

After breakfast, head to the San Telmo flea market. Its is very crowded and bustling with activity. Plenty of things ot look at and plenty places to eat and drink. We selected, La Terraza del Balcon which has a Tango performance with brunch plus the option to sit ion the roof deck and sip some chilled beverages. Very nice! When you are done here, head back to Florida street to finish up some last minute shopping.

Sunday Tea or Cafe + Snack before heading to the Airport:

You have to visit Cafe Tortoni to try some churros and cafe. Perhaps a sandwich if you are hungry. The Café Tortoni is a coffeehouse located at #825 of Avenida de Mayo (which is right in fron tof Casa Rosada). Inaugurated on 1858 it is the oldest coffeeshop in the country where the elite of the Parissiense culture gathered in the 19th century. Inspired by Fin de siècle coffee houses it makes the perfect last stop before heading back.

Japanese Vending Machine Products - Fascinating

2009-05-22T22:27:00.006-05:00

Green Tea Latte

Great tea, Many flavors

Beer

Tokyo

2009-05-22T22:09:00.005-05:00

So I landed in NRT (Narita Airport) which is about 1 hour from Tokyo on April 28th. This was a work trip but knowing me, I have to experience the sights, tastes and sounds of the city to rally call it a true travel experience.

Here are the highlights of my trip:

1) Bento box (also called Obento) shown in the picture is a classic Japanese lunch box with everything Japanese

2) Tokyo Tower which is walking distance fromt he Northwest Office located in Kamiyacho.

3) The Trains and Subways -- Really sophisticated. Not many people have cars

4) Tsukiji Fish Market: Have to go at 4 or 5 am when the auction for "tuna" begins. Japan has the worlds largest demand for seafood. Large 100 to 200 lb Tuna are brought in, every morning, graded and auctioned off to hoteliers and restauranteers.

5) Shibuya Crossing: It's like Times Square. Need I say more?

6) Pachinko: Vending Machines with Pinballs. they are everywhere.

7) Akasaka area near New Otani Hotel in tokyo (Walking distance); Lots of restaurants open late. Great for walking around and taking in the Japanese way of life.

Also shown above are pics of a Traditional Japanese Garden -- This one was inside the New Otani.

I picked up some Japanese!!

Arigato Gozaimasu (Thank you Very Much)

Aridato (Thx)

Sumimasen (Excuse me)

Campai (Cheers)

Itagakimas (Let's eat, Lets be thankful for the food we have in fron of us): Said before a meal.

New Years

2009-01-03T12:19:00.006-05:00

I celebrated NYE in a cabin in Chattanooga. I actually had decided that morning to be home this year because it has been so tough and I wanted to be alone, quiet and reflect. At noon, I had already spoken to Nameeta and Dad and they had already had their New Years in India. Then I decided to take Rita up on her offer (Thanks Rita!). She invited me to join her, Mark, Mel, Morgan, Dave and Angela at the cabin. She asked me to pack a bag and be ready by 3 pm. She also said that they would drive me there and back the next day. Thank God for friends. What would have I done this past year without my friends. I did end up thinking about mum the whole day and night and it was nice also to be close to my friends who are always looking out for me.

The log cabin was wonderful with several bedrooms, pool table and hot tub. We cooked and made cocktails and played Jenga, Uno Attack, cards all day. We also took the riverboat cruise for dinner and champagne at midnight. I looked up at the stars from the boat with my champagne glass and gave mum a flying kiss and raised my glass to her love and life. I missed her very much. Soon after, we went back to the cabin (not sure how but I ended up being designated driver so I was not buzzed but it was fun watching everyone else). We got in the hot tub in 20 degrees weather and by then I was very very very tired. Tired of 2008 and ready for 2009.

Thanksgiving 2008

2009-01-03T10:02:00.006-05:00

Thanksgiving was really nice at Mel and Morgans. We each brought a dish and her friend who is a chef cooked the Turkey so it all worked out. Michelle brought her yummy procuitto wrapped dates and green bean casserole, Tori and Marcus brought Mac and Cheese, I brought sweet potatoes and a brocolli salad, Mel took care of the drinks. We also had mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing and desserts. Mel as usual was a great hostess!

Brunch in Atlanta

2008-12-10T21:03:00.008-05:00

Smita's Top 10 Brunch places (Under Construction)
I LOVE Breakfast. Easily my favorite meal. Dad got me into it. Growing up, I ate an eggs a lot. Dad and I love them as runny as possible! (cholesterol is still ok and I just think that eggs got a bad name in the 90's). I also love a Sunday Brunch. So I decided to dedicate a posting to Brunch.

I also submit restaurant reviews to http://www.yelp.com. Great site for foodies.

1) Carol Street Cafe
Descriptors: eclectic, unique, cozy, stylish
Love this place. Went there once with Mel and another time with Jen, Mar mar and Ed.
Recommendations: Start with the Mimosa's and make sure they are made with fresh OJ. I am a big fan of runny eggs so I would go with Eggs Meurette or Eggs Benedict
Details: Neighborhood: Cabbagetown 208 Carroll St SEAtlanta, GA 30312(404) 577-2700

2) Radial cafe
Descriptors: green, local, brick, art, diner
Some unique dishes include buckwheat pancakes, bagel and lox, gouda scramble
Details: Edgewood/Candlerpark neighborhood; 1530 Dekalb ave NE; Atlanta GA 30307

3) Flying Biscuit
Descriptors: good for out of towners, popular, fun
Try the biscuits, shrimp and grits.
Details; Multiple locations; I usually go to the one in Inman park

4) Original Pancake House
Descriptors: Rockin pancakes, crepes, original
Signature Item: Dutch Baby (http://www.originalpancakehouse.com/)
Details: Tara Shopping Ctr.2321 Cheshire Bridge Rd. (Lavista Rd. NE) Atlanta, GA 30324

5) Canton House (Dim sum)
If you are looking for "real dim sum" this is the place. It may not be as good as SanFrancisco and New York, but is the closest thing I have come across to a chinatown in Atlanta. They have everything. If you havent had dim sum before, be prepared to be introduced to dishes that you will never typically see in a regular chinese restaurant (Think Singapore and China).
I liked they typical, steamed pork buns, dumplings, shrimp shu mai. If you are a fan of the red bean paste, they have that too.
Descriptors: Ballrooms, old fashioned, dim sum on carts, families
Details: 4835 buford highway; Chamblee, GA 30341

6) Belly General Store
Descriptors: Cool, hip, modern take on traditional general store
Details: 772 North Highland Ave
Best cupcakes, olive oil bagels made fresh, nutella and banana panini.
Good for a simple breakfast.

Casablanca, Chile -- Habitat for Humanity House Build

2008-11-23T22:53:00.007-05:00

We arrived in Santiago on Friday November 8. 60 people, 12 houses, 3 days. I was assigned to house number 4 and house number 9. We took a bus to Casablance, Chile which was the town where we built the homes. I was very fortunate to be selected to go on this build through Delta's partneship with Habitat for Humanity. It is my second one -- the first was india last year. I would say that these experiences have been one of my best ever -- I will carry the memories with me and smile everytime I think of them.

I actually built a home for someone. It is an unbelievable feeling. Especially knowing that it was was someone who would be given hope for a new life. My home owner had 2 kids and she was a single mother. She was 19. The house was only 2 rooms but to her it was everything.

On Death

2008-09-29T22:30:00.004-05:00

Khalil Gibran

You would know the secret of death.
But how shall you find it unless you seek it in the heart of life?
The owl whose night-bound eyes are blind unto the day cannot unveil the mystery of light.
If you would indeed behold the spirit of death, open your heart wide unto the body of life.
For life and death are one, even as the river and the sea are one.

In the depth of your hopes and desires lies your silent knowledge of the beyond;
And like seeds dreaming beneath the snow your heart dreams of spring.
Trust the dreams, for in them is hidden the gate to eternity.
Your fear of death is but the trembling of the shepherd when he stands before the king whose hand is to be laid upon him in honour.
Is the shepherd not joyful beneath his trembling, that he shall wear the mark of the king?
Yet is he not more mindful of his trembling?

For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun?
And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered?

Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.

Stairway of Tears

2008-09-28T20:39:00.005-05:00

Author Unknown

If tears could build a stairway

And memories were a lane

We would walk right up to Heaven

And bring you back again

No farewell words were spoken

No time to say goodbye

You were gone before we knew it

And only God knows why

Our hearts still ache in sadness

And secret tears still flow

What it meant to lose you

No on will ever know

But know we know you want us

To mourn for you no more

To remember all the happy times

Life still has much in store

Since you’ll never be forgotten

We pledge to you today

A hallowed place within our hearts

Is where you’ll always stay

Text Messages from Mum

2008-09-07T13:10:00.008-05:00

How to begin? Today is the day that mum passed away. I find that very difficult to write and yet I feel compelled to write something. When I went running yesterday morning, I knew something was wrong. I stopped at a shady stop because I was choking and i couldnt breathe and I knew it wasnt because of the heat.

The call came at 3:45 am and it was my sister who said "mum is no more". I felt like I didnt hear it and perhaps I was dreaming so I asked her again "what" "what was that?" and she said over and over while crying "mum is gone, she is no more". It is ironic that mum said those exact words to Dad when I last spoke to him 2 days ago -- she wrote on his arm while he was sitting on the bed "I am no more".

I had asked God a few days ago to either giver her back to me just as she was a year ago or else take her. The cancer was eating her away and it was time for some fairness. Such a good person cannot deserve this, I thought last week. She had become so frail that she could not lift herself to sit up.

The tumor lodged at the back of her tongue despite all the medicines, radiation and chemotherapy was taking over her body. And inspite of her mental strength, the vitality of other organs, will to live and determination, it was time. I think mum knew she was going and I believe she is in a better place. I think angels came to get her several times but she was not ready until today. When my sister called me last night and talked about mum trying to take off her hospital gown and asking for a "Saree", it was because she was getting ready to go. I know this now because today she is in a pink and gold saree looking very peaceful. She was just trying to tell us it was time.

She is truly and always will be an inspiration.
She dedicated her life to us.
She was a person of great character, unbelievable strength, tireless love and affection.
Her personalty was contagious. Every one loved her.
People flocked to her at gatherings and even for the last 7 months that she was in the hospital, she brought the family closer and closer.
She taught me to be patient and to forgive.
She taught me the importance of being neat and clean and to always look presentable. "wear some jewellery and lipstick" she would say. "you should always look nice".
She taught me to enjoy life and food.
She taught me to be strong and endure.
She taught me the importance of good friends.
She taught me to have faith.
She tought me to be positive, always.

I will miss her text messages. Here are some that I have saved:

"Smallie (my sister is small and i am big so she called us smallie and biggie) said you were worried and confused. Pray for strength. You will be shown the right way"

"Stress is a destroyer. I have told Smallie also -- quality of life, work, and emotions will suffer with stress luv so keep it down" (Sept, 2006)

"Pray for Health first, then Peace, then Happiness luv".

"Dont ever be the underdog, ok? baby; dictate your terms" Dec, 2006

"Get the movers to help you move baby. You must be dog tired. Get rest. Never mind if its late. Take it slowly but get the the move finished. Nite nite and god bless"

"Morning baby, Are you having tea? I am having evening tea" (11/17/2006)

"Baby, we must find peace within us by facing reality, living in the present and seeing positive. Harness positive thoughts; don't let them run away" (1/11/2007)

"Don't underestimate yourself"

"Hi Darling, how are you. Have a good day at work luv." 2/8/2007

"Worry is an insult to the Gods wisdom. Problems arise to humble not tumble you. Purpose of life is to do good and be happy" 3/5/2007

"An hour of exposure to sunlight will do you good" 4/3/2007

"You are my efficient biggie; remember, something great is in store for you" 4/6/2007

"How is your cold and cough. Take care luv" 5/16/2007

"Darling, have a good day. I'm also shopping for milk and veg. June is almost here and God will lead us to a new phase of life for the better (day my divorce was final) " 5/21/2007

"Best of luck and talk with confidence, luv" 8/7/2007
"How was the meeting. Did you steal the show? I'm sure you looked like my big fairy (she called us her fairy princesses)" 8/8/2007

"Bon voyage, have a wonderful trip luv"

God bless her and may she be in peace.

Mom

2008-07-12T09:16:00.009-05:00

January 23, 2008 was the toughest day of our lives. It was the day we found out that mom was diagnosed with a Stage 3 Cancer. We had been through 2 years, sugeries and radiation but in December when she went to the wedding, it was all going to be ok. We didnt know at that time that the real fight was just about to begin. The real fight started on January 24th. And mum has inspired us all. She has been battling this disease in a manner that I never could. She has been through surgeries, radiation and 12 round sof chemo. I will never forget the night that she was put in an ambulance and rushed ot the intensive care because of the continuous bleeding. I was in Frankfurt on my way and was praying every second. She made it through. That is the first time I have been in an ambulance with someone so close to me lying in front of me, hooked up to tubes. I was listening to the sirens and it all started sinking in. I have cried at odd times. Not in the face of the disease or in front of mom but more when I watch a movie, walk out of the grocery store or listen to a song that for some reason strikes a chord so deep that it becomes impossible to hold myself together.
I am not sure why I am writing this. I was inspired to write after I read something that my sister wrote on a blog about oral cancer. After I read that, I decided to write too.
Mom has tremendous faith. That is what gives her strength. She is more concerned about us and herself. She makes us smile any chance she gets.
Mom came home in June. We were so happy -- she was watering her plants, ordering the cooks around and walking to the garden to pick flowers for her prayers in the morning. She was back!! When I flew back here in April, I was hopeful. Hope -- its a dangerous word. It can make things ok in seconds. It is so powerful.
When I saw mom over the July 4th weekend, I cant help say that I was very sad. I saw that she had declined severely since 8 weeks ago. She was still her usual self. She couldnt speak so she wrote some things in her book. "How is work?" she said. So I talked ot her for a while and told her how things are going really well. A lot better than last year. I have a new boss and a new job that I really like. I am so lucky to have a great team of people who are brilliant and hard working and they make me look good. Then she asked me what I was going to eat for lunch. In her book she wrote "Tell the cook to make Dosa, Coconut chutney for you". So I did. At dinner time, she wanted the book again. She wrote "Tell the cook to make you chinese food -- she can make fried rice and why dont you have some shrimp and fish?" she wrote. It broke my heart to see her in such spirits. She said " Dont worry, God is with me. God will take care of me"

Today is July 12, 2008 and we are praying again. Mom is back in the hospital. She was admitted the day after I came back here. Since the cancer is in her throat, she has difficulty eating, speaking and breathing. The 3 things I cannont imagine myself without. The cancer is showing signs of coming back. This is the worst disease anyone can get. Why does my precious mother have to suffer?

Mum is fighting Oral Cancer. We are praying. Oral cancer is the largest group of those cancers which fall into the head and neck cancer category. Common names for it include such things as mouth cancer, tongue cancer, and throat cancer. Approximately 35,000 people in the US will be newly diagnosed with oral cancer in 2008.

http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org/

Nameeta's blog

http://www.nameetanair.blogspot.com/

Binod Bhabi

2008-07-10T16:55:00.004-05:00

This is Binod Bhabi. She was found on a Railway Station platform. She knows her name but has no knowledge of where she came from. She was lost in a crowd situation at a Railway Station. For some months she just got on and off trains, begging. One of the social workers found her when she was begging and took her to a Shelter and then to MEG Community Centre. Binod came when she was 7, now she is 10 and very happy in M.E.G. Home.

I am her sponsor. It is only $420 to sponsor her for a full year. You can share with that child your affection and a chance to feel special by keeping in touch with him or her. Then you'll receive their photographs, their drawings and thougts in return.

It is more personal than donating money and not knowing what happens with your money which is often the case.

She is from the Visakhapattnam MEG Home. MEG has 2 villages -- one in Puri and the other in Vizag or Visakhapattnam.

If you are interesated in sponsoring a child, just click here

http://www.megfoundation.org/

Cairo, Egypt

2008-06-02T21:54:00.012-05:00

Things to do in CAIRO:

1) El Fishawy, one of the most popular traditional cafés in Egypt, has been run by the El-Fishawy family 24 hours a day since 1773. If Egypt is the heart of the Arab world, Islamic Cairo is the heart of Egypt, and El Fishawy one of its key arteries. El Fishawy itself is at the heart of the Khan al-Khalili - a souk originally built in the late 14th century and today a gargantuan labyrinth of markets and shops, one of the great bazaars of the whole Middle East.

2) The Pyramids of Giza are what you go to Egypt for. Make sure you ride the camels through the Sahara dessert around the pyramids. If possible, visit the queen mothers tomb. Its 200 degrees inside and climbing into and out of the tomb is quite a feat, so make sure you have walking shoes (although I did it with flip flops).

One of the best kept secrets is the Pizza Hut behind the pyramids. You can eat a deep dish pan pizza with pepperoni on the rooftop while watching the sound and light show (starts around 8:30 so get there by 7:30 if you can). Pyramids are breathtaking at sunset.

3) Tutankhamun (King Tut) Exhibit, Tomb, Artifacts and Mummies at the Egyptian Museum

This is amazing if you are a history buff (or not) and want to spend a day learning about the King, Egyptian civilization and mummies. Over 3,000 treasures were placed in the tomb to help Tutankhamun in his afterlife, and the walls of the burial chamber were painted with scenes of his voyage to the afterworld. Tutankhamun's mummy is made of solid gold and weighs approximately 240 lbs. His body was wrapped in linen and over his face was placed an exquisite gold mask.

Go early. The museum gets crowded by 1 pm. Pay the 100 LE extra to see the mummies exhibit.

4) The Nile: A dinner cruise on the Nile is highly recommended.

Beware of the airport. It is a mess. Get there 2 or 3 hours before your flight and carry a printed itinerary.

Alaska

2008-05-31T16:23:00.006-05:00

Seward, Alaska. Simply beautiful. We did this over Memorial day weekend. Left at 2 pm from Atlanta for Anchorage. Got in around 6 pm and ate dinner at Humpys (www.humpy's .com). Excellent Alaskan King Crab and lot's of Salmon choices. Highly recommend it. Next morning we drove to Seward (3 hour drive absolutely breathtaking). There are several cruises that leave from Seward every day. We took the Marine Line Tour's. Saw Porpoises, Humpback whale, Puffins, mountain Goats, Sea Lions and a Sea Otter. We also passed Bear Glacier. Great Salmon lunch was served onboard. I recommend staying overnight in Seward. This is a nice town with several bars and restaurants and quaint shops and churches. Seward has several breakfast joints and Reindeer sausage is a must -- very tasty. The next morning we stopped at Portage Glacier on the way back. Also hiked the "Trail of Blue Ice" -- Around 3 miles, very scenic. Exit Glacier, closer to Seward was closed off due to snow but I hear that is a must see also. We arrived back into Anchorage on Sunday and took the 6:40 pm redeye back to Atlanta.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

2008-05-17T09:34:00.016-05:00

2nd Annual Girls Trip to All Inclusive, Dreams Resort, Punta Cana. If you work for the airline they have a sweet deal of $78 all inclusive. If you dont work for an airline, its $150 all inclusive and this includes food, drinks, hotel. You can't beat this deal. The ocean is great, the pool is enormous and serpentine with swim up bar (the Hut in the picture). They have activities planned all day from Pallea making, aerobics, yoga, volleyball, salsa, Merengue and Bacahta classes by the pool. At night we Salsa and Merengued in their Disco which is open until 2 am so you really dont need to leave the resort. They have a casino too. The restaurants were good. Mexican, Japanese, breakfast buffet and such. We also played 'name that tune' and won a ton of dreams dollars (that you see in one of the pictures). This was by far one of the best "all-inclusives" and one of the most memorable girls weekends!!!! Clearly I owe it to my awesomest girlfriends Cindy and her sister Jenny. Cindy moves to Costa Rica in a week so this was our last fun travel soiree before her departure.

Here is a link to the dreams dancing staff.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VwKXn5sgo1g We ended up meeting some very friendly dominicans Pedro, Clive, Alehandro, JZ. They entertained us, taught us dancing, phrases like mama ki, mama ya, patii pamii and introduced us to one yummy beach drink - the sammy sosa made with pina colada, blue curaceau and strawberry daiquiri. We had a blast! Michael Jackson, the MC or entertainer checked in with us every few hours reminding us of the next show or the next dance class. For more details you can always check out cindy's blog

http://www.vivacindy.com/

or the website

http://www.dreamsresorts.com/drepc/destination-info.html

Grandma

2008-05-16T06:05:00.003-05:00

Amuma lived a long life of 98 years. May her soul rest in peace.

Interview with God

2008-05-16T05:58:00.001-05:00

Inspirational Quotes

Mia Familia

2008-05-16T05:46:00.010-05:00

Sea kayaking, Carolina coast

2008-04-12T13:13:00.007-05:00

We are near north of Myrtle beach South Carolina at Francis and Junesca's house on the beach on Pawley's island. Today is by far the most beautiful day this year. It is 76 degrees, not too warm, cool breeze off the ocean. This is our first team offsite. We went to the shrimp dock yesterday and picked up 5 pounds of shrimp. We boiled them with old bay seasoning and lemons(just 3 mins after the water boils and they are perfect. more than that they get mushy). We also played Apples to Apples which I think is a really fun group late night drinking game like 'pass the ace'.
This is my first time sea kayaking and I think I am addicted. I plan to go back out again later but this time on the creek rather than the ocean since the tide is getting high and rough. The sun sets on the creek side so it's going to be awesome.

Atlanta Braves

2008-04-06T13:53:00.003-05:00

Living in Atlanta its really easy to become a fan of the Braves. The season has just begun and I've been to 2 games. Lucky for me, Delta has a suite and sometimes we get tickets to the suite. This is a team building event and the game is verus the Mets. It was a great game and the Braves won it!

Spring in Atlanta

2008-04-01T18:03:00.001-05:00

Spring time is my favorite time in Atlanta. All the flowers are in bloom. These tulips are right in front of my apartment and I love to look at them every morning when I walk to the car.

Spice Market comes to Atlanta at the new W, Midtown

2008-03-27T20:58:00.005-05:00

Spice Market, Atlanta
Jean George's Spice Market features cuisine inspired from the street food of South Eastern Asia.
www.culinaryconcepts.com
http://www.jeangeorges.blogspot.com/

My favorite dishes:
black pepper shrimp with sundried pineapple
spices chicken samosas with cilantro yogurt
shanghai noodles (in pic)
pork vindaloo
thai jewels

Green beer on St Paddy's day

2008-03-17T22:05:00.000-05:00

St. Patricks day is celebrated annually on March 17 in honor of Ireland's patron saint. St. Patrick was born between 370 and 390 C. E. in the Roman Empire in Britain. The day is celebrated with green beer, the wearing of green clothing, and parades.

San Jose, Costa Rica

2008-03-15T19:46:00.004-05:00

Costa Rican colones are 490 to a dollar. We were in San Jose for the weekend. Cindy and Ernesto will be moving there in June for a year. I will miss them very much but will fly often to visit. This trip was more about getting a feel for the neighborhood than about rainforests or volcanoes. It was fun. Some thinngs that we covered on this trip...

1) Escazu and Santa Ana neighborhoods

2) El Pueblo nightlife, bar areas downtown

3) The park that runs in the middle of downtown and along sabana sur neighborhood

4) Hotel Grana de Oro -- Situated on a shady street just off Paseo Colón, Hotel Grano de Oro is a true oasis, a sanctuary in the heart of the city. Converted from a Tropical Victorian mansion, the 35-room hotel has the warmth and comfort of a private home. Hallways lined with period photographs and original art meander through the building and present lush tropical flower arrangements and luxuriant plants at every turn. Italian tile fountains that grace the intimate atrium are a must. The breakfast is great as is the bar/cafe area.

Cancun, Mexico

2008-03-01T06:13:00.001-05:00

This is one of the most inspirational books I have read. It is the story of Lance Armstrong who battles cancer, defies his odds for survival and wins Tour De France making the idea of a medical miracles a reality. I hear a miracle happens everyday. This, like mum's case is one of them.

My favorite lines:

"The truth is that cancer is the best thing that ever happened to me. Why would I want to change, even for a day, the most important and shaping event of my life?"

"I don't check my mother at the door"

"i want to die at a hundred years old after screaming down an Alpine descent on a bycycle at 75 miles per hour"

A prayer for mum, for life

2008-02-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

Om Trayambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pusti - vardhanam /Urva - rukamiva BandhananMrtyor - muksheeya Ma - amritat

The Maha Mrityunjay is a mantra that is said to rejuvenate, bestow health, wealth, a long life, peace, propsperity and contentment. The Mantra is a centuries old technique of connecting one to pure consciousness and bliss.The prayer is addressed to LORD SHIVA.

By chanting this Mantra, Divine vibrations are generated which ward off all the negative and evil forces and create a powerful protective shield. And it is said to protect the one who chants against accidents and misfortunes of every kind. It is a vibration that pulsates through every cell, every molecule of our body and tears away the veil of ignorance.

It ignites a fire within us that consumes all our negativity and purifies our entire system. It is also said to have a powerful healing of diseases declared uncurable even by the doctors. It is a Mantra to conquer death and connects us to our own inner divinity.Known as the Moksha Mantra of Lord Shiva, Maha Mrityunjay evokes the Shiva within and removes the fear of death, liberating one from the cycle of death and rebirth.

Sundance Film Festival 2008

2008-01-21T20:58:00.000-05:00

I was lucky to go to Sundance this year to do some interviews with the press for Delta. The Delta Sky 360 lounge is located across from the post office (Address was 449 main Street I think). In here we have displayed our wines, Chef Michelle Bernstein menus and appetizers, Samples form Todd English and wines from Andrea Robinson. Also in here is our lie flat 777 LR seat and our refurbished BE seat with our seat back In-Flight Entertainment. The lounge is frequented by customers, employees, partners, travel agents, media and execs. Hope we get some hits with the media. This is such a cool space. I stayed with Tina Wilmore who has an amazing place on Mahre Drive about 15 minutes form the main drag. Tina and Bill are awesome hosts.

New Years 2008

2008-01-02T22:18:00.001-05:00

I was in New York and it was awesome! Started off in Time Square, followed by a great party (Thanks Annika!) at Delta's Sky 360 Lounge located at 101 West 57th street and finally ended up at Wyclef's house (I'm not kidding....yes, that's him in the red hat). I wished him a Happy New Year! Annika knew his manager so we got invited. He was cool and most people there were his family and friends.

Tom Brady and the New England Patriots

2007-12-30T00:17:00.000-05:00

16 and 0 woohoo!

I am a New England Patriots fan. More than that, I am a Tom Brady fan. How could you not be? Living in Boston for 6 years will do that.

It was a record-setting night for the Patriots. Brady set an NFL single-season record for touchdown passes (49) and Randy Moss broke the single-season mark for touchdown receptions held by Jerry Rice with his 23rd of the season when the two teamed up on a 65-yard score in the fourth quarter. The Patriots also set the NFL single-season record for points scored (589) on Brady's 4-yard touchdown pass to Moss in the second quarter, breaking the 1998 Minnesota Vikings' mark of 556.

Habitat for Humanity

2007-12-02T22:32:00.000-05:00

This was an incredible experience. The village of Nagewadi is in a remote area north of the commercial center of Karjat about 3 hours from Mumbai. Delta and Habitat helped build 8 homes for tribal farmers and their families. The village has a mix of kucha and pukka houses. The pukka houses belong to people that can afford a home; the kucha houses are made from reed and cow dung paste. I was assigned to build a home for Chebi and Vithal Thorad, and their three girls, Ashwini, Sadhna and Manda.
We worked all day from 8 am to 4:30 pm in 95 degree heat. The home was built from bricks and mud. Following a brief learning curve, I soon got the hang of it. The last day of the build we decorated the houses for a dedication ceremony that was very emotional. We presented the families with steel cooking utensils for cooking. The children had created Rangoli's (colorful designs on the floor to signify celebration/a happy occasion). We took several Polaroid pictures of the kids and families and left them behind for them. The joy on their faces was precious. This rewarding feeling and the smiles on the children's faces makes it all worthwhile. To me it was a life-changing experience. There is no doubt in my mind that we got more out of this than they will.

We got a lot of media coverage which was unexpected but great for Delta

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/perry-garfinkel/may-deltas-force-be-wi_b_74814.html

http://www.merinews.com/catFull.jsp?articleID=127371

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2007/11/13/stories/2007111350440300.htm

http://in.news.yahoo.com/071115/43/6namp.html

http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Dreams-make-a-smooth-landing-for-these-tribal-families/239569/

Thanksgiving in Dubai

2007-11-23T11:30:00.000-05:00

The 5 key things you should do if you go there:

1) Dune Bashing: We went to Hatta dessert not far from the city. We rented 4 Runners and a crazy driver. Driving on the dunes is something to experience.

Best memory: The video of us in the 4 runner, free henna and belly dancers under a moonlit sky

2) Burj Al Arab I have blooged about this building before. This time we ate lunch at the restaurant. Probably the most expensive lunch I will ever eat but totally worth it for the experience. The food and wine was excellent too. Best memory: Ajay chugging wine in a 7 star hotel leading to Smita driving his Mercedes home.

3) Gold Sukh: I have never seen so much gold lining a single street. Everything you can imagine in gold.

Best memory: Cindy trying on several gold rings (like she was going to buy something?) and telling the shop owner how he should have used more expensive and precious stones or something like that.

4) Jumeriah Beach

Best memory: While we decided to lay out in our bathing suits, we noticed that most others were in full Arab gowns while people in the water were wearing regular underwear (and I mean cotton boxers, briefs and such. do they not sell bathing suits in Dubai?)

5) Bab-el-shams

If you can afford it, do it. This is a Dessert Retreat complete with luxury, dunes, pools, camel rides, spas, awesome food and so on. We just went there for dinner.

Diwali in Mumbai

2007-11-10T00:11:00.000-05:00

We landed on Diwalin night. The city was awake with firecrackers, music, lights and people everywhere. Nameeta was leaving to go to a puja(prayer) at midnight so we decided to join her. Didn't go to bed until 4 am and even at this hour the city was alive! Diwali is the festival of lights.

Girls weekend in NYC

2007-11-04T21:23:00.000-05:00

Hotspot #1: Dream Hotel 210 W 55th Street between Broadway and 7th; sexy and stylish lounge and rooms

Hotspot #2: Sky 360, Delta's new lounge on 55th and 7th

Hotspot #3: Eva lounge on the penthouse of Dream hotel; excellent DJ Friday nights

Hotspot #4: Bayleaf Indian buffet 49 W 56th Street between 5th and 6th; Lunch buffet was very good with lamb vindaloo, shrimp curry, methi malai mutter, pumkin and such dishes.

Halloween 2007

2007-11-04T20:47:00.000-05:00

Counting Crows in Sky 360 (NYC)

2007-11-04T20:38:00.000-05:00

Smita with Adam Duritz - lead singer of Couting Crows at Sky 360 (corner of 57th and 6th) in NYC on October 21, 2007. The Delta lounge is a cafe by day and a club by night. Stop by if you are ever in Manhattan -- we have free internet, coffee, wine tastings, ipod and phone charging stations, cool music and nightly events.

Cancer

2007-09-23T20:55:00.000-05:00

I want to write about cancer but I don't know just what to write. It came into our family 2 years ago when mom unexpectedly found an unusual occurance on her tongue. Now, a few years, miracles, prayer, radiation, doctors, tears, fights, victories, drugs, hopes and days later we face it again. Mom is a survivor and I know she will fight this but it makes me so mad that we cannot kill the cancer completely and any time it can creep back into our lives like an ugly nightmare. Mom, I love you so much and I am so proud of you. We are by your side but it is your strength, spirit, attitude, courage and happy smile that will win this fight :-)

I know how much you love bougenvilla bonsia so here is my gift to you :-)

US Open

2007-09-23T20:19:00.000-05:00

I was fortunate to watch the mens quater finals and mixed double finals for the US Open this year. I saw Chela, Ferrer and Paes on center court at Arthur Ashe stadium in NYC. Watching Leander Paes was exciting since he is from India and I was very familiar with his game and past. My dad is an avid Tennis fan so I grew up watching Tennis religiously.

Luke and Maureen

2007-09-03T20:58:00.000-05:00

Luke is my godson. He lives in Boston with his mom Maureen. We share the same birthday and it feels like yesterday when I was in the hospital waiting for him to be born. I can't believe he is 7 now. Maureen and I have been friends for 11 years. We met in Boston when I lived there between 1996 and 2003. I love Boston and I love going back there to see my friends. Just can't do the cold and the high cost of living anymore. Luke, Maureen Alana and I goofed off this weekend and played in malls. I think the shopping is much better there than in Atlanta. It was awesome to see them. Maureen and Luke just lost their apartment to a fire. The reality of the fire really hit me when we went inside and saw the destruction. They are doing really well though and have the prayers and support of friends and family.

Absolut Ice Bar Copenhagen

2007-08-26T19:10:00.000-05:00

The bar has a temp of -5 degress and is located in Hotel 27 which is in the heart of Copenhagen very close to Town hall square and Tivoli gardens.

The walls, artwork, chairs and even the glasses are made of ice. They will give you boots, parkas and gloves. The cocktail "Snow Queen" made with Absolut Currant and Mango puree was fantastic!

Biking

2007-08-19T21:48:00.000-05:00

So I bought a kick ass bike this weekend. The freedom park and stone mountain trails are really close by and I finally went on a long and awesome bike ride today. Couldn't figure out what happens after the trail goes over Boulevard so didn't quite get to the zero mile mark at Georgia Tech but will have to figure that one out. The other direction I hear is an 18 mile stretch of buildings, trees, parks all the way to stone mountian.

I bought the bike at Outback in Little 5, only a couple miles from my home. http://www.outback-bikes.com/

Edgemont, my sales guy was so helpful and very knowledgeble and I would highly recommend him if you are in need for a bike and especially if you are a new biker like me. I tested both the Specialized and Bianchi models in my price range and ended up getting a Bianchi Bay City Cross-Terrain® bike. It is lightweight, versatile comfortable with an upright riding position with easy-to-operate shifting and brakes. They have all the gear and accessories like th ebike racks, helmets etc.

Cooking with Smita

2007-08-19T21:32:00.003-05:00

http://www.cookingwithsmita.com/

Since food and wine and cooking are a passion for me, I have decided to start another blog with recipes.

If you like to cook ethnic food, check out my food blog @

http://cookingwithsmita.blogspot.com/

Bon Appetite!

Virgin America

2007-08-11T20:31:00.000-05:00

So I experienced Virgin America on Friday, Aug 10 from JFK to SFO. The inflight experience was really quite amazing. I felt like I was in a night club for the entire flight. What really stood out and impressed me:

- the lighting (makes a huge difference)

- the trio of appetizers (shrimp cocktail, melon w/prociutto, mozarella tomato) and trio desserts (mousse, creme puff or raspberry)

- the thai chicken green curry with bok choy served over rice complete with cilantro garnish (definitely one of the better thai green curries ive had and believe me I know my curries!!)

- powerful brand experience (personally i think Virgin is one of the best brands in the world; tough to say given they are the competition..)

- new white leather seats (massage feature, awesome recline for a FC seat, red pillows)

- the ability to order food and have it delivered to your seat in coach

- very good entertainment system and content -- music, movies, games, large screen, sleek black units (nothing spectacular but just very good)

Bourne Ultimatum

2007-08-04T10:56:00.000-05:00

Saw it last night - opening night and definitely worth it. Talk about action packed. The third in the Bourne series was the best of the 3. It is non-stop action from start to finish and Jason Bourne is perfect as always -- the tough guy with the emotional side that is showcased brilliantly. The close up hand-held style of filming made it tough to see the scenes clearly but it was what made it a thrill ride (car chases and bathroom fight scenes were off the charts and totally insane!!!). Easily best action movie of summer 2007. So, go see it on the big screen!

Smita's top tunes this week

2007-08-02T20:49:00.000-05:00

4 in the morning - Gwen Stephani
Get it Shawty - Lloyd
You know i'm no good - Amy Winehouse
Our time now - Plain White T's
Apologize - Timbaland & One Republic
Umbrella - Rihanna & Jay-Z
Big girls don't cry - Fergie
Makes me wonder - Maroon 5

Smita's top 12 restaurants in Atlanta

2007-07-31T21:07:00.000-05:00

12 Taqueria del sol(Mexican): simple, fish tacos, margheritas, salsa trio, warm chips, 2 buck tacos

11 Six feet under (American): oyster shots, best burgers, upstairs patio

10 Eclipse de luna (Spanish): Tapas, Music, Sangria

9 Fritti (Italian): truffle oil mushroom pizza, atmosphere, unique pizza's

8 Bhojanic (Indian): Thalis, shrimp appetizer, band on fridays, outdoor seating

7 Surin (Thai): Highlands, best nam tok, coconut chicken soup

6 Agave (Southwestern): tuna tartar, civeche, margheritas,

5 Ecco (Eclectic): Meats, cheeses, outdoor patio, club vibe, nice bar,

4 MF (Sushi) : Awesome sushi

3 Top spice (Malaysian): roti canai, spicy burn your mouth shrimp

2 Krog bar (Mediterranean): Wine pairings are beyond good; awesome apps, 3 gelatos, nice bar

1 One Midtown Kitchen (Fusion, Eclectic): Atmosphere, wine bar, baked goatcheese, mussles

Boeing 787 Dreamliner launch on 7-8-07

2007-07-08T17:44:00.000-05:00

Today is a big day in Aviation. It is the launch of the Boeing 787 as planned on 7-8-07. This jet will will transform the civil aviation industry forever. The airplane is 50% composite plastic and the fuselage uses carbon fibre. This makes the plane lighter saving 20% on fuel. The inside is sweet too -- 3 settings for lighting, bigger windows, higher humidity. Price is a cool $150 millionish and they are selling like hotcakes. Range is about 8000 nm -- JFK-BOM, LAX-BKK

2 am

2007-07-03T22:21:00.000-05:00

2 AM and I'm still awake,
writing a song
If I get it all down on paper,
it's no longer inside of me,
Threatening the life it belongs to
And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowd
Cause these words are my diary,
screaming out loud
And I know that you'll use them,
however you want to
But you can't jump the track,
we're like cars on a cable,
And life's like an hourglass,
glued to the table
No one can find the rewind button now
Sing it if you understand.
and breathe,
just breathe

Mumbai Siteseer

2007-07-02T21:25:00.000-05:00

Cindy, Nami and I were responsible for a home made video that went live on delta.com on Delta Siteseer. The theme was "markets of Mumbai" Here is the youtube link. Check it out!Above is the Taj Mahal hotel and the Gateway of India. I took this picture while returning from Elephanta caves by boat. This is a great day trip.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

2007-07-02T20:47:00.000-05:00

The Westin, Resort and Spa is located on Port Royal Plantation which is walking distance from HHH (airport). Alternate airports are Savannah which is about is about 45 minutes away or Charleston which is a 2 hour drive.

Within the Port Royal plantation, there is bicycle and jogging paths, three championship golf courses, and sixteen tennis courts. The hotel can also arrange for kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and horseback riding. Runner's World Maps are available for 3-mile and 5-mile jogging/walking routes from the hotel. We did the 5 mile walk/run around the golf course -- it was awesome. Didn't have time to rent bikes -- maybe next time.
We also found a great Thai restaurant just 5 minutes away called Ruan Thai -- excellent nam tok. There is a really good selection of restaurants pretty close to the hotel.

Counting Crows, June 12, 2007

2007-06-17T10:42:00.000-05:00

Adam Duritz of Counting Crows with Smita at their studio in NYC June 12, 2007 (Looking Glass Studio; corner of Bleaker and Broadway)

Adam Duritz is the lead singer and founding member of the rock band Counting Crows. Duritz has dated actresses Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, who appeared in the music video "Long December", Mary Louise Parker, Monica Potter (the Mrs Potter in "Mrs Potter's Lullaby" from This Desert Life) and Winona Ryder.

ADAM'S BLOG
http://adam.countingcrows.com/dam.countingcrows.com/

Dubai Inaugural, May 31, 2007

2007-06-17T10:40:00.000-05:00

Dubai: We are family....

2007-06-17T09:58:00.000-05:00

"We are family. I've got all my sisters with me."

International family reunion in Dubai at Soukh Jumeriah. So good to hang out, cook, go out together like old times. Mom found some rocking toothpicks for her collection and dad enjoyed his scotch on the rocks. We sisters chose mojitos and martinins as usual. Ajay (not in pic) ordered an unusually fruity mai thai like fruit rum punch.
REVIEW OF SOUKH MEDINAT JUMEIRAH: Trader Vic is in the Souk Jumeirah, a newly built shopping mall/hotel/resort in Arabian Style with a Venetian twist, as there are canals and small gondola-style boats to get you around. Especially in the evening, the terrace at the waterfront is a romantic place, with the "old style" Arabian Souk in the background and the gondolas going by. Of course, you don't have the hustle and bustle of a true Arabian souk, but I guess that a lot of people don't mind that at all. It is a Disneyland style combination of Arabian ehtnic, Venice and expat-wives, however without the kids :-) Inside, there's eating and dancing and that is a lot of fun.

BURJ AL ARAB

This is the tallest operating hotel building in the world (not counting mixed-use buildings like Jin Mao Tower in Shanghai or the unfinished Ryugyong Hotel in Pyongyang, North Korea). "Burj" is Arabic for "Tower". The building's external lighting schemes, from white light to a multicolored one, change from one to another every 30 minutes expressing the evening's progress. The building's design is influenced by the profile of an Arabian sailing ship. The Al Muntaha restaurant is located 200 metres above the Persian Gulf, offering great views of Dubai. It is accessed by a panoramic elevator. The atrium is 180 metres high, one of the tallest in the world.

Goodbye my lover; Goodbye my friend

2007-06-15T22:30:00.000-05:00

Did I disappoint you or let you down?
Should I be feeling guilty or let the judges frown?'
Cause I saw the end before we'd begun,
Yes I saw you were blinded and I knew I had won.
So I took what's mine by eternal right.
Took your soul out into the night.
It may be over but it won't stop there,
I am here for you if you'd only care.
You touched my heart you touched my soul.
You changed my life and all my goals.
And love is blind and that I knew when,
My heart was blinded by you.
I've kissed your lips and held your head.
Shared your dreams and shared your bed.
I know you well, I know your smell.
I've been addicted to you.
Goodbye my lover.Goodbye my friend.
You have been the one.
You have been the one for me.
I am a dreamer but when I wake,
You can't break my spirit - it's my dreams you take.
And as you move on, remember me,
Remember us and all we used to be
I've seen you cry, I've seen you smile.
I've watched you sleeping for a while.
I'd be the mother of your child.
I'd spend a lifetime with you.
I know your fears and you know mine.
We've had our doubts but now we're fine,
And I love you, I swear that's true.
I cannot live without you.Goodbye my lover.
Goodbye my friend.
You have been the one.You have been the one for me.
And I still hold your hand in mine.
In mine when I'm asleep.
And I will bear my soul in time,
When I'm kneeling at your feet.
Goodbye my lover.Goodbye my friend.
You have been the one.You have been the one for me.
I'm so hollow, baby, I'm so hollow.
I'm so, I'm so, I'm so hollow.

My Review of Sandy Reef Sandals

2007-06-15T06:36:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at Island Surf

Love my Reefs

By ski from Atlanta, GA on 6/15/2007

Comfort: Supple, Breathes Well, Broken in

Pros: Cute, Comfortable

Best Uses: Hiking, Beach, Travel, Barbecues

Describe Yourself: Trendy, Stylish, Casual

I waited too long to get them this season. Finally ordered them online -- it was perfect. They got here in 5 days. Reef "Sandy's" are my favourite -- my previous pair lasted me almost 3 years and I just loved them.

(legalese)

Skeezer

2007-03-03T10:52:00.000-05:00

aka

Ski, Skeeze, Ski Ski, Pirate, Meatball, Crazy,

Vada Pao

2007-03-03T10:01:00.000-05:00

The only true fast food in Mumbai. Potatoes boiled and mashed with turmuric, chillies, spices. Then coated in batter and deep fried. Served in a small bun with garlic, red chilli and fried green chilli. yummmm

Saint-Sulpice Paris

2007-03-03T09:40:00.000-05:00

Saint-Sulpice church is located in the Saint Germain neighborhood of Paris in the 6th district metro stop Saint-Sulpice.

The Da Vinci Code states that the Paris Meridian or the Rose Line as the book calls it, runs through Saint-Sulpice church. This is fiction. Yes, Saint-Sulpice has a meridian line but the one in Saint-Sulpice has nothing to do with the once zero-longitude line Paris Meridian. The meridian line in Saint-Sulpice is used to determine the winter solstice and Easter.

Mehandi

2007-03-03T09:29:00.000-05:00

This is at home in Praneet. Cindy, Nami, Mom and I decided to get Mehandi done before we left to go back to the US. It stayed on for about 2 weeks. She was so good. It only took her 15 minutes to do each hand.

Sisters

2007-03-03T09:16:00.000-05:00

Nami and me.
"For there is no friend like a sister, in calm or stormy weather, to cheer one on the tedious way, to fetch one if one goes astray, to lift one if one totters down, to strengthen whilst one stands."
Christina G. Rossetti quotes (English Poet. 1830-1894)

Westin in St Marteen

2007-03-03T09:00:00.000-05:00

Really nice pool. Cindy and I were looking forward to it and we had a great time.

It was loacted on Dawn beach which is in the Dutch side. The island is divided roughly in half between France and the Netherlands

Maho Beach

2007-03-01T22:05:00.000-05:00

Maho Beach is a beach situated in St Maarten in the Netherlands Antilles, on the dutch south side of the island.
Due to the fact that aircraft (including large passenger airliners such as Boeing 747s) fly very close over the beach it is very popular with plane spotters.

The local government warns that becoming too near of departing and arriving aircraft can "result in serious injury or death." It is one of the only places in the world today where you can view aircraft in their flightpath virtually just outside the end of the runway.