It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

photo credit - festivechristmasdecorations.com

It's official - Christmas is in the air! I went to Movietowne tonight to the European Film Festival and I can definitely feel a little something extra in the air. West Mall is also beautifully decorated. What a wonderous sight! Today being Divali, on the drive home, I also saw some lit deyas and it was equally appealing to the eye. Tis' the season for giving and sharing and this time of year, everything seems so magical and bright. I know you must not get sucked into the commercial aspect but it really adds to the feeling of joy and laughter. The Christmas music also plays a part to make everyone feel like humming a happy tune. Let's not get caught up and remember the reason for the celebration. Why not share our blessings and do something selfless for a good cause? This can make the world of difference for someone not as fortunate as us and it will surely make us feel better too. It does not have to be something monetary but it could be our time or talent. Whatever it is, give with a free heart and it all comes back to you in one form or another. You might even find yourself pleasantly surprised  one day, when suddenly everything in your life falls effortlessly into place. This Christmas I pray for life, health, strength, peace, joy, love  and wonderful people to share it with. I wish the same for each and everyone of you! Hope the season is shaping up nicely for you! Make it special, make it unique AND Make it count!

Peace

New Developments taking shape...

photo credit - everythingtrini.com

Aren't co-workers the best sometimes? Let's face it: apart from school, you meet the most diverse bunch of people at your workplace. I was talking to a colleague about my soon to be published book and he had the most insightful ideas and inspiration. So I am wavering about the venue for this launch right about now. Let's  backtrack...so far I've moved from the bookstore to the library and now to  a more intimate setting and gone from having two launches to maybe just one - a private one. If my venue works out, it will just be spectacular and out of this world...small and cosy just the way I like it. I'm getting really excited...can you tell?! I did my budget tonight and things are looking up. I have the menu down - inclusive of some nice festive treats with a local twist since it looks like it's going to be a December launch. Christmas is always good to build the excitement. I asked my friends whose forte is photography and decorating and they're in as well. So you will be the first to see it unfold here complete with photos and videos! I even compiled the guest list. Invitations are going to be a dream...It's just to visit the venue and see where that leads! * fingers and toes crossed*. Can't wait:-) Maybe I can do that tomorrow since it's a public holiday here. Wish me luck! I might even have to time to check out the European film festival while I'm at it...

photo credit - phd2published.com

Wherever you are and whatever you're doing...soak it all in and make it count! The future awaits!

photo credit - gooddeals.com

Festival of Lights

photo credit -indiafun.net

Various countries all over the world at this time celebrate the Festival of Lights known as Divali. It symbolizes light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. Many Hindus commemorate the holiday by the lighting of little clay lamps known as "deyas" and the cooking and sharing of meatless curry dishes before which time they engage in fasting and prayer. Candied sweets such as Kurma, Ladoo, Gulab Jamun, Jalebi, Peera and Barfie make many people with a sweet tooth happy. Persons can be seen in traditional East Indian garb such as saris and shalwars during the season and many people can be seen visiting various displays of lit deyas strategically placed over bended bamboo poles. However the most prominent display in our country can  probably be be seen at the Divali Nagar site in Chaguanas, which is transformed into a big flea market and cultural information hub the week leading up to the festival and culminating with fireworks on the last night. It's a nice precursor to Christmas and many persons from all religious denominations look forward to the celebration and bonding experience it brings, especially in a multicultural nation such as ours.

Let's join the Hindu community around the world to wish all a Shubh Divali.

photo credit -caribbeantravelmag.com