Tuesday, October 19, 2010

THE INTERNET'S MOST CAPTIVATING WEB-SITE - MOUTHSHUT.COM

We the members of the famous Mouthshut.Com
Identify ourselves as the MSians, Witty and Warm,
Our Site believes that Consumer is the King,
What Hot, What’s Not, We tell you Everything.

Mouthshut is not just a Social Web-Site,
It is not just a Business Idea Bite,
Mouthshut is a Priceless Insight, A Passion of a kind.
Into the likes and dislikes of the Consumers Mind.

We are the Mouths that Open to Talk,
We are Mouthshut and we sure do Rock.
We help you buy, what is the Best Choice,  
With our ‘Word of Mouth’ Advertising Poise.


Our Mouthshut Site is Wonderful, Intelligent and Witty,
Not many a Site can boast of such, It’s a Pity
Come voice your Opinion on our MS Platform
We Research, Compare and Review like a Brainstorm
 
Mouthshut is the Pulse of the Market,
Mouthshut is the Mind of the Consumer Circuit.
Our Reviews are a Rave and are widely Read,  
Our Diaries Straight from our Hearts, is keyed

Once you enter Mouthshut, Addicted will you get
For our Site is the Best, the Rest you will Forget
Mouthshut has won the Best Web Portal Award
Our CEO, Faisal, he got this Reward
For he is a real Hardworking Tech Freak
A man who, who is a Icon, yet friendly and meek
Our CEO, a Celebrity, yet so Humble,
Forever busy, creating some new Bustle.
Our Caretaker APS, is Wonderful,
She Peps us up and keeps us Cheerful.

Mouthshut is Our Happy Web-Site,
We have tons of Fun and Delight.
We Share and Connect, we Rock Allright,
Constructive Writing is Mouthshut’s Birthright.

We communicate and make Virtual Friends,
We Comment, and Share, we enjoy Weekends,
We Rate each others Posts,
When we win the FP or ROTD, we celebrate with a Toast

So hey you big Corporates, don’t be careless,
Your Product or Service, we inspect with aptness.
So, Beware, we are there, looking everywhere,
Checking and Testing for Our Society Welfare

So you better make your Product be Good, 
We won’t let you give us any Falsehood.
If you are excellent, we rate you 5 Star,
Or else, we’ll paint you with some Tar.

So Come One and All,
Join our MS Family and have a Ball.
Never from Mouthshut will you Quit,
For we are a Large Family Closely-Knit


FROM CATTIE'S HEART
WITH LOVE TO HER MS (MOUTHSHUT.COM)

Thursday, October 14, 2010

DO U KNOW WHY WE HUMANS LIVE TILL ALMOST 80????

CATTIE'S HISTORY MYSTERY STORY

History Mystery

My cousin in Spain sent this to me and I thought I'd share it with you all.
Kinda creepy, but its something I got, to make you go Crazy over the Weekend, Contemplate over it.....................TILL U GO CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

hehehehehehehehehehehe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Have a history teacher explain this----- if they can.

Abraham Lincoln was elected to Congress in 1846.
John F. Kennedy was elected to Congress in 1946.

Abraham Lincoln was elected President in 1860.
John F. Kennedy was elected President in 1960.

Both were particularly concerned with civil rights.
Both wives lost their children while living in the White House.

Both Presidents were shot on a Friday.
Both Presidents were shot in the head

Now it gets really weird.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lincoln 's secretary was named Kennedy.
Kennedy's Secretary was named Lincoln .

Both were assassinated by Southerners.
Both were succeeded by Southerners named Johnson.

Andrew Johnson, who succeeded Lincoln, was born in 1808.
Lyndon Johnson, who succeeded Kennedy, was born in 1908.

John Wilkes Booth, who assassinated Lincoln, was born in 1839.
Lee Harvey Oswald, who assassinated Kennedy, was born in 1939.

Both assassins were known by their three names.
Both names are composed of fifteen letters.

Now hang on to your seat..............................!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lincoln was shot at the theatre named 'Ford'.
Kennedy was shot in a car called ' Lincoln ' made by 'Ford'.

Lincoln was shot in a theatre and his assassin ran and hid in a warehouse.
Kennedy was shot from a warehouse and his assassin ran and hid in a theatre.

Booth and Oswald were assassinated before their trials.


WHO FIGURED THIS OUT?


Can U Believe Cattie with SO MUCH KNOWLEDGE????????

hehehehehehehe!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DON'T USE ANY 4 LETTER WORDS GUYS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JUST FOR FUN..............

A young couple got married and went on their honeymoon. When they got back, the bride immediately called up her mother.


"Well," said her mother,"so how was the honeymoon?"

"Oh, mama," she replied, "the honeymoon was wonderful! So romantic..."

Suddenly she burst out crying. "But, mama, as soon as we returned, Sam started using the most horrible language -- things I'd never heard before! I mean, all these awful 4-letter words! You've got to take me home..., "PLEASE MAMA!"

"Sarah, Sarah," her mother said, "calm down! You need to stay with your husband and work this out. Now, tell me, what could be so awful?

WHAT 4-letter words?"

"Please don't make me tell you, mama," wept the daughter, "I'm so embarrassed, they're just too awful! COME GET ME, PLEASE!!"

"Darling, baby, you must tell me what has you so upset. Tell your mother these horrible 4-letter words!"

Sobbing, the bride said, "Oh, Mama..., he used words like: dust, wash, iron, and cook..."

"I'll pick you up in twenty minutes," said the mother.



Hey Guys!!!!!!!! Did U also use these 4 Letter Words to Ur Wife?????????

Then be careful, UR MOTHER-IN-LAW IS GOING TO TURN UP AT UR HOUSE NOW...........


hehehehehehehehehe!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cattie

MY SWEET LITTLE HEART !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey you little Heart of mine,
You are my body’s mainline,
But why do you always cry,
Today u better give me a reply.

See my head, always full of things,
Never it is empty with Nothing.
See my brain how much they work,
They are always full of art and fireworks,

See my hands, how much do,
The amount of work they do, you have no clue.
See my legs how much they walk,
On any road, they willing stalk,

See my eyes, how well they see,
Who is sad and who is happy,
See my ears, how willing they hear,
Whatever anyone says, they listen sincere.

See my lips, how well they smile,
Even if it is not worthwhile.
See my tongue, forever it speaks,
Of Love and Laughter, even though everything is bleak.

Then why my poor little heart,
Do you feel pain and tear urself apart,
Why can’t you be, like others, Strong?
Why can’t you not bear anything Wrong?

Dear little heart, On you my life depends,
If you stop for even a minute, everything ends.
Life is so short, so people say, Make it Sweet,
So when you are in pain, be a little discreet,

Don’t upset my mood, Don’t be so rude,
Don’t make those painful Tears,
Wipe out all my Cheers.

I want to Smile, I want to Laugh,
I don’t want to enjoy life only half,
I don’t want you to hurt, whatever it may be,
You have to be Rough and Tough, you see.

This world is full of so many troubles and pains,
But just brush it all aside and happy you should remain,
I’m warning you now, My Dear little Heart,
SO JUST "SHUT UP" AND BE A 'SWEETHEART'

TIME FOR SOME MALE BASHING.....



Q: What is the difference between Men and Puppies?

A: Puppies grow up…………………………..
*************
Q: Why do Men always have a Stupid Look on their Faces?
A: Because they are..............!!!!!
*************
Q: What do Men have in common with Ceramic Tiles?
A: Fix them properly once and you can walk all over them forever.



*************
Q: If you drop a Man and a Brick out of a Plane, which one would hit the
ground first?

A: Who cares?????.. ... ????
*************
Q: What did God say after he created Man?
A: I can do better than this!
And then he created WOMAN!!!.
*************
Q: What's the difference between an Intelligent Man & a UFO ?
A: I don't know, I've never seen either.
*************
Q: What are two reasons why Men Don't Mind Their Own Business?
A: i) Either they have no Nind
ii) Or they have No Business



*************

Q: Why did Moses wander in the desert for 40 years?
A: Because even back then Men wouldn't ask for Directions .



*************
Q: What is the difference between Men and Pigs?
A: Pigs don't turn into Men when they ‘Drink’…....



*************
Q: What makes Men chase Women they have No intention of Marrying?
A: The same Urge that makes Dogs chase Vehicles they have no Intention
of Driving.




*************
Q: What do you do with a Man who thinks He is God's Gift?
A: Exchange him !!
*************
Q: Why do Men like Smart Women? (like Cattie)
A: Opposites Attract.



*************



Hope U All Loved this ????????? hehehehehehehehehehe!!!!!!!!!!!

Cattie

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

THE THRILL OF GRILLED FOOD IN BARBEQUE NATION

For all you Kebab and Barbeque Food Lovers, here’s a place where you can enjoy your heart’s delight of Authentic Barbeque Food.

Imagine, good old Thane which was once written off as a village, or suburbs, is now becoming a Foodie’s Paradise. I really never knew Thane had such a grand joint, Barbeque Nation which I believe is was started in Mumbai in 2006 and owned by ‘Sayaji Hotel Ltd’.

Barbeque Nation an Exclusive vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian Restaurant is drawn from Mediterranean, American, Oriental and Asian origin. Barbeque Nation brings the concept of a live grill to India for the first time. An International Concept, the restaurant offers an option where customers can make their food on their personal grills, which are embedded in each table.

My family and me went out this Saturday to have a little party and someone suggested we go to this Exotic place. The first thing my ‘Designing’ eyes noticed was their beautiful Logo and Slogan. “BARBEQUE NATION”. “The World on a Grill”. What a totally Fantastic Slogan. I love Logo Designing and appreciate a Good One when I see it. Further they go on to make it more Authentic by adding that it is “Live Barbeque on the Table”.

I was amazed at this concept. Trully it was a extraordinary assessment and experience. The Cuisine is a combination of Chinese, Continental and North-Indian. The music makes the place real Lively with a mix of Bollywood, Hip-Hop and Pop. You enter the lobby and booking table on the ground level and if your table is ready, you are ushered to the 2nd level where the feast is laid out. Level 1 is the kitchen and washroom area. The décor is modeled after a European country dining experience, with a lot of wood and exposed brick walls.

The restaurant cum bar can space around 130 people as well as provides valet parking, take away and reservation services for the convenience of the customers. You better do your reservations, if you don’t want to sit and wait. The rate per head is Rs. 500/-, a ‘Steal’ if you ask me!! Their address is Sun Magnetica Service Road Eastern Express Highway Thane – 400 601 Phone: 932110114 / 022-32162444 Landline - 022- 32162333 Timings 12.00 p.m to 12.00 a.m . (That’s what I call ‘The Typical Mumbaikar Lifesytle’).

Since we reached there by 12.30 p.m., we were lucky to get the best table, which was right at the end, and which overlooked the entire restaurant. Each table has its own personal Grills, embedded on their table, which when not used it covered with a lovely wooden slab. There is a high degree of hygiene level and no odors of food and barbecues. The kitchen area is well separated from the seating area and so prevents that stuffy food smell from flurrying the area. The first thing, that is done, by their Efficient, time-perfect waiters are to get your table ready for the starters. So they put in the grills into your table and get your ‘Starters’ plate ready. There is little flag pole on your table which says (hold your breath!!!!!!!!!!) “Please turn down, to Stop Starters Service”.

Yes, guys, there a bountiful Unlimited Starters for you to Hog on. My advice to you is make sure, you don’t eat anything 6 hours before going here, or you will be doing ‘Injustice to the Menu’. The Buffet menu as I was informed by the waiters are prefixed having ‘5 Veg and 5 Non-Veg Starters. I Veg and 1 Non-Veg Soup. 4 Non-Veg and 6 Veg in Main Course with rice, roti and naan. 3 Non-Veg and 5 Veg Salads.  And (Again hold your breath!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) 7 Divine Desserts.’. Hearing this, my taste buds started working and we got ready for the most exciting Food Experience of our Lives!! The waiters promptly arrived with Skewers, having cooked Starters which they wud place on your table grill. Is there any word better than ‘Mouth Watering’?? Well then you better use that word here, for along came the Non-Veg Starters, Coastal Barbeque Fish, Tiger Sized Tandoori Prawns, Shami Kebabs, Grilled Chicken with mustard glaze. You hardly finish one ‘skewer’ and the next is promptly placed on your grill, so while you are happily munching on the starters, your other starters are being kept warm and nice heating slowly on your table grill.

Don’t worry you vegetarians, the Veg Starters took looked very tempting, on the side table where we had a vegetarian couple sinking their teeth into the sumptuous Aloo mint Kebab, Barbeque Paneer, Beetroot sticks, Gobi aachari, chili garlic baby potatoes and barbeque mushrooms. I must advice you, if you are a Non-Veg, concentrate on the Fish and Tiger Prawns skewers. And with the starters you are served 1 Beer free or 1 Mock tail drink free, as complimentary. I choose the strawberry mock tail and it was ‘heavenly’. You can also order more drinks from their bounteous bar, which most of the men were doing!

We were all so full with the starters, but I was curious to see what the main menu had in store, so I forcibly cut down on the Starters and went with mum to the Main Course Buffet Table. There was Smoked Chicken Soup and Tomato Basil Soup. Me and mum decided to skip that and get on to the main dishes, consisting of Chicken Dum Biryani, Roasted Lamb in Pepper Sauce, Mutton Keema, Fish Yellow Thai Curry, baked Cheese Pasta. Then we choose the raw papaya and peanut salad, the sesame potato salad and corn and spinach salad and Yogurt apple salad. My plate was full and mum had to literally pull me away from the food spread !!!

There was so much of variety and if you ask me, I will vote the Roasted Lamb, Keema, Corn and Spinach Salad and Yogurt Apple Salad, as my favorites. We sunk into the food sumptuously. Mum and me were the first to finish and both of us being the Sweet Tooth specialists went for the Final Grand Dessert Spread. The first thing that caught my eye here was My Favorite ‘Kiwi Soufflé’ and Kiwi Sauce, then fruit cake, angoori gulab jamuns, Crunchy dry-fruits Halwa, Mmmmmmm!!!!!!!!!!, Ice Cream with hot chocolate sauce. Again that plate of mine got full and I was forced to return back to my seat.

But honestly, after you ate the last spoon of your Desserts, your stomach actually ‘Thanks You’ and you know that this is the limit. I call it ‘ A Happily Saturated Stomach’. The waiters clear up your table, remove the grills and replace the wooden slabs and a cleared table with water glasses and your favorite ‘saunf’ is placed before you. The bill is simple, Rs 500 multiplied by the number of people !!! Wow!!! What a Spread, What an Ambience, What Service !!!

One of the waiters came up and gave me the ‘Feed-back / Suggestion Form’ to fill up. I looked at him and simply said “Hey, Barbeque Nation ROCKS!!! And definitely does not need anybody’s suggestions, It’s Just PERFECT”. So, I bet u guys must be already making plans to raid Barbeque Nation, this weekend.

And its CATTIE’S GUARANTEE – IT’S A PERFECT GRILL WITH A THRILL.
Enjoy Yourselves!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cattie

ARE U MAN ENOUGH TO HANDLE YOUR DIVA ?

The Woman" of today's generation has ‘Changed’! She has her own Individuality & its high time for her Man to Accept it !!! Today, we have so many Divas (Beautiful & Successful Women) in our society. Power dressing, Firm handshakes & Big Pay Packets, are not ‘Only’, a Man’s Domain, anymore. Some Men feel ‘Over-Shadowed’ by their partner’s success?They view their woman’s success, as a threat? They feel Insecure, just because their partner is not fully dependant on them? Why? I have seen many families break, due to this cold war between the husband & wife.

This is the story of a cousin of mine, who was my childhood buddy. After school days, we shifted to different colleges & houses & places & till just recently, just 3 years back, I happened to meet her at a Seminar. I could not believe my eyes, my timid shy cousin, on the stage, in a swanky orange suit, looking totally elegant & stunning & answering intellectual questions from the participants in such a confident voice. I was zapped & excited & could not wait for the coffee break to meet her. When finally we met, we were making so much of noise, that the entire horde of participants & panel members were looking at us !!, U know, as if they were all seeing a movie, where the twin sisters were separated at Birth & Re-United at Youth !! hehe!!.

After that, we met up one weekend & went to Café Coffee & divulged in our college to marriage stories. She told me that she was a G.Mgr with a MNC, earning a 6-digit package. Her face was so cute & kid-like, but she carried herself so well, she sure was an Eye-Catcher. I was sure, she was one lucky Gal !! She told me, she used to travel a lot on tours by her Company, to attend conferences etc.. At the end, I said “WOW ! Shruti, U R one Lucky Chick !!!”. She looked at me with a sudden sadness in her eyes & said “Cattie Darling, don’t judge a book by its cover.”

Then we parted & I went back with that ‘Curious as a Cat’, mood. I wondered, what could she possible not have? Luckily after a few weeks, she called me, inviting me to stay over at her place, as her hubby was going on a Conference Tour. We were jumping with joy, like two school kids & had such fun in the kitchen trying some fun snacks & mocktails. After dinner, we got chatting on the bed. I saw the prominent snap of she & her handsome hubby, on her bedroom table. She told me that he was a Hi-Fi Professional & how they met at a party & married. Then I decided to let out my Curious Catty question……so I asked her “Shruti, why do you still say, that U are not Lucky?. You’ve got everything in life, that a girl wants?”. She looked at me with a distraught face & just burst into tears!!! I was taken aback, & immediately hugged her close & soothed her. Then she slowly opened up & told me, why she was in pain & I was Aghast with what her story!!.

Yes ! My Sweet Friend was a Diva! A Successful, Popular & Admired Woman. She had the Looks, the Money, the Success, the Family, everything in her lap….except that she was not happy with her hubby…& they were on the verge of Divorce !!!! The Reason, you ask me?? Go back to the top of this write-up & read the Heading. “Are You Man Enough to handle a Diva?”.

So what, if the woman is more popular, successful or earns more money than her man? Is that a reason to take it as a Threat to their Egos & get Jealous & Fight with her and Intimidate her ? Many woman today, have to constantly downplay their success to please their Man,Why?? Can’t the man view his partner’s Success with Pride & be happy that it helps in sharing the burden of running a family ?
If the man is not able to accept his partner’s success & popularity, then let her be a house-wife & cook & clean like in the olden days…But No !!, the Cost of Living is going up & he can’t foot the bills alone. So is the woman supposed to go to work, put her head down & do back office jobs, don’t go on tours, don’t have friends, don’t socialize...Don’t do This & Don’t Do That ???

A woman is warm & loving & caring & hence she tends to be more Sociable & Bonds better with people. If she has guys as her Best Friends, how can He consider it as Flirting or having an Affair ?? Isn’t it a shame for a man to brawl at his wife, just to ‘Put her Down’? Why not, he look at his woman’s success, as a stepping stone, to make Home & Family life, more Comfortable & Enjoyable??
Shruti is sad & lonely, even though she has the Best. She loves her job, her friends, her family. She does her duties as a Wife, a Daughter-in-law & also successfully handles her job. She is beautiful in her Looks & in her Heart & that has got her tons of friends cum fans.



Is it her fault, if she became more Successful & Popular than her Man??

How many of our Divas of Today’s Generation are there standing on top, being acclaimed & much-admired by all, woman & men, but yet back at home, they are silent tormented women, trying to tackle their Man’s rebellion towards their Diva Status, trying to please their Man & keep him happy, but get only rebuked & dealt with skepticism in their lives, till they can take it no more & either commit suicide or divorce !!

The Key to a Healthy Relationship is that both, the Man & the Woman, Support & Encourage each other rather than Compete & be Jealous of each other.

A Man needs to be confident in his ‘Masculinity’ & feel good about his Woman’s Popularity. It is important to treat your partner as An Equal & Understand & Support each other’s needs as Individuals.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

A TRIP TO HEAVEN AND BACK...............!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Last week of July, I was invited for a Business IT Seminar at the Leela Kempinski Hotel at Goa. The invite came from a Company called “Saltmarch Media”. It reminded me of the lesson we had learnt in history about Gandhiji’s Salt March.

I normally avoid accepting invitations to Seminars because they are sometimes so boring & talk talk, talk, this “Saltmarch Media” invitee seemed to captivate me, into accepting the Invitation. & the keenness with which the ‘Saltmarch media’ staff did the co-ordination & followed up with me at every stage, really made me feel quite elated.

A special mention of one Mr. Roman & Ms. Alice, they two were constantly in touch with me, & speak in such a soft & respectful voice & helped me fill up the forms etc, making everything easy for me.
So came the day, I flew down to Goa to attend this seminar with another 50 to 100 more delegates. Little did I know, that the place I was going to was actually ‘Heaven’.
As soon as we landed, we were all welcomed by the Hotel Staff with a kum kum on our heads & a garland on our necks & a nice wicker basket with a sweet coconut in it. As we savored the sweet coconut ‘amrut jal’, we were warmly escorted into the Seminar Hall for registration & then whisked away into cute little buggies driven by the Bell Boys to our own individual cottages. I was surprised to note that they had taken the trouble of even removing all those Flight Stickers & tapes from the bags.
I skipped the High Tea on the Agenda, as I was curious to explore my room & the view from my balcony. The furniture was so majestic & arranged so well. My cottage had a large comfy Sitting room, a Cozy bedroom, two balconies & two bathrooms. There were two TV’s, Recorders, DVD Players, Fridge & the room was equipped with Everything you could possibly need ! And I think, Leela’s bathrooms are made for Kings & Queens, with such beautiful accessories all around, a large marble cabinet filled with sweet smelling soaps, shampoos, creams & all the toiletries. And added to it, there was a separate Shower Room, maybe, for those, who don’t like lying down in the tub, like me. Inside the cupboards were everything you could possible need, right from Bathrobes, Nightgowns, Soft Cushion Slippers, Iron, Ironing Table, Umbrella, it was like a treasure ! There were phones all over in every room. Art statues adorned the hall. The sofa sets were rich made of Wicker & soft cushioning. Cabinets were made of solid teak wood & artistically carved. Every piece of furniture was a work of Art by itself.
The thing I liked most was, that there were no Drapes, like in other hotels. Instead all windows had wooden venetian blinds, which you could easily open & close by just moving it up or down. The French Doors, also had the same wooden blinds. As I moved out into the balcony, I was astonished to see that there was a Stream outside both the balconies. & flowers & plants all over. The view of nature here was Breathtaking!!!!
I then got dressed in my tasteful outfit & went for the Opening Gala Dinner at the Aparanta Hall. There was a nice little ‘Illusion Magic show’ before dinner & it all had us laughing. I was surprised to note that we were only 3 girls in the whole crowd of nearly 100 odd delegates. By this time, I was real hungry & though I normally skip dinner’s (to maintain my figure), I just could not resist the delectable dinner awaiting us. There was such a huge variety of Soups, Salads, Main Course & Desserts, that people were actually standing & wondering which to take in their plates….Hehehehehe!!!! It was past 9.30 p.m., by the time we finished, & we were all driven to our respective cottages, in the cute little buggies. It was pitch dark, but the weather was so cool & the palm trees & thick greenery everywhere, was so enchanting, I felt like Cinderella, riding home in her horse stagecoach.
This was ‘Just’ the place for me, Nature, Art & Serenity with a Class of its own. Ah! What a Pleasure it was to sink into that big huge soft bed, clean & pristine white, & 4 huge soft pillows. & what a great difficulty it was getting out of bed the next morning with the Wake Up Call !!
This day was the main day of the Seminar, I was thinking of escaping back to my room, thinking that the seminar would be boring, but to my pleasant surprise, it was so interesting & so lively & the topics discussed was so fascinating, ‘Cloud Technology’. We hardly knew how time flew by and it was time again for a sumptuous meal, Lunch. Then there were one to one Discussions and surprisingly I found myself (my company) the most sought after for discussion with the sponsors / vendors. So well managed, each sponsor with his own table space & his small team, each having a lovely reception girls, waiting to escort you to the discussion table of each sponsor. I thought that this session of one to one discussions would hardly take much time, but I ended up being the last person leaving the Discussion room ! (Cattie was in Great Demand! hehehehe !!). All the others had very coolly gone to the exquisite Dinner Hall & the men were at the bar, enjoying themselves.
Really, Leela Kempenski, just does not fail to keep you enthralled, with their hospitability & perfection in everything they do. A Lovely Goan Band was bought in during dinner, & they had two wonderful female singers & the Drummer was too just good with his beats. The ladies sang old Portuguese & goan songs, some Jazz & some classic sentimental. I am a Music buff & the music was mesmerizing me. I ended up making friends with the two lady singers, who surprisingly complimented my outfit & asked me if it was from a designer!. No wonder that Conference photographer was following me all over & clicking away happily … hehehehe!!!
The next half day, we were given freedom to do what we wanted, till our flights in the evening. I seized the opportunity to do explore the entire grounds, alone, & savor each & every beauty of this Heavenly Hotel. I got up early, & was the first at breakfast buffet. Then, I went off on a walk across the lawns & little wooden bridges, all over, as there was a small stream running through the resort. The greenery was so thick, so lush & flowers blooming all over. Tall Palm trees & endless number of Coconut trees. Little cane shacks at each & every spot of beauty, to serve you drinks & coconut water. A Spa near a small neat swimming pool.

There was a Bountiful Nature Treasure here to explore. I walked & walked, clicking away with my mobile camera, every lush tree, flower beds, river bridge, shacks & cottages. There was a road leading to the Mobor beach, which was happily dancing with huge white waves & foam & soft white sand beneath your feet.
This was Paradise personified ! While walking back from the beach, I saw a unique thing, a tree with a ‘tap’ & a ‘shower’. I was so flabbergasted, that I stood there nearly for 10 minutes, trying to figure out, how they made the tap, coming out of the tree bark and a shower on one of its branches, for the people who went swimming, to shower before going back. You must see this photo of that tree, which I am posting in this review.
WOW ! What a enchanting walk I had, I was saturated with the Beauty of this Heaven ‘Leela Kempinski – Goa’. I then walked to the lounge to rest a bit, after all the walking. Here again I could not just sit & relax. The Splendor of the lobby was so immense, that I found myself walking all around the colossal lobby, again clicking away with my mobile. Everything here was ART, the ceiling was so artistically done up, with paintings, the rock stone statues all over, the wicker chairs & tables, the striking fans overhead, the little grottos with small waterfalls & streams below with gold fish swimming in it, was the best of all, in the lobby.

There were huge broad divans, where one could sit & put up your legs & stretch & relax against the plush cushions, & enjoy the soothing breeze from all the open sides. I must have dozed off there for 10 minutes, my body not used to this Luxurious place of Relaxation. A steward came up & gave me a cool sweet coconut water & it seemed as if I was floating in the cool waves of a lavish ambiance.
It was time for us to leave this ‘Heaven’. The Hotel Coach came & we were all escorted into the Coach, our baggage, tied neatly with bag labels with your name & cottage number, so very well disciplined, & loaded into the bus dicky. All of us were given souvenirs from ‘Saltmarch Media’ , besides gifts from all the sponsors of the event. And some special people, like me (hehe!!!) were gifted a neat little golf set.
My heart ached to leave this Heaven, but then life must go on. Everything must come to an end & at every end is another new beginning. So comforting myself with these words, I boarded the flight back to ‘Aamchi Mumbai’. Truly Nature is the Art of GOD. And Leela Kempenski Hotel, Goa is the Heaven made my Man.

I most ardently recommend ‘The Leela Kempinski, Goa, Hotel to all you Nature Lovers, all you Hard Working Executives, wanting a take a break and relax and forget everything, just pack your little bag, and sashay away to Goa, to the Lovely ‘Leela Kempenski’ and enjoy the legendary elegance and breathtaking beauty of this Heavenly Beach Hotel, set against the backdrop of an intriguing fusion of colonial Portugal and Classical India.

I compliment ‘SALTMARCH MEDIA’ for organizing such a beautiful event and ‘ The Leela Kempinski’ for the extravagant time, I had in their Heaven in Goa

Cattie

FASTRACK – INDIA’S MOST LOVED FASHION BRAND.

Oh My GOD, this Company is sure going a Long Long Way……………….

I have always been a Bag Lover (besides Shoes). The new Fastrack Bags simply astound you. The colors, the super cool designs, the backpacks, its mind-blowing. So Guys, Gals, all of you who are Bag-Crazy like me, rush out there and get yourself a Cool bag to match your style.

For those of you who are new to this Brand, a little info from Cattie’s Diary… Fastrack was launched in 1998 as a sub-brand of Titan. Within a few years, I think by 2005, it has become an independent brand for the urban youth. Fastrack today has gear compromising of bags, belts, wallets and wrist-bands. Its got all the style statements, that today’s youth need to be Coool!!!!!!!!!.

I remember when they had first started their Ad campaign with their Slogan ‘MOVE ON’……………Superb Cool Theme!! Basically since I am myself a specialist in ad designing, I just loved their Theme. Its like an Inspiration to the Youth..telling them not to be stuck in the same rathole but to get up and Move On in Life. Whoever has done this advertising concept for Fastrack is really a Genius. I believe if a product is well advertised, it can mint millions for the Company.

Fastrack has a Fresh sense of style and has become an instant rage with our youths today. They started with Watches and today it has added onto its booty Watches, sunglasses, bags, belts, wallets, wristbands. And each category has got so much to choose from !! Their watches collection itself has Women’s Watches, Campus Watches, XY Watches and Neon Disc Watches.

Their bags are so fashionable and chic, ranging from Shoulder bags, Messenger bags, Hand bags, Duffle bags, Backpacks, Wallets all in Nylon Polyester and for the Unisex.
Fastrack, is truly India's most popular fashion accessories brand. And I just love its new Ambassador Genelia D'souza, our sweet & bubbly Genelia. She came out first in the Hot campaign of Girl’s sunglasses in the "Sweet No More" Sunglasses Campaign, with a complete make-over from her sweeter self to the spunky, naughty, bold and sexy girl.

I like that slogan “Girls…………..Sweet No More!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”. It was like a threat thrown to the guys saying “Watch it You Dude, don’t take us Girls for granted anymore…………..”
The Fastrack ‘Girl line’ introduced current fashion trends like larger frames, bug-eyes, colored and shell frames along with bright gradient lenses. What makes the products even more unique is the innovative play on the Fastrack logo on the temples
The Fastrack ‘Neon Disc Collection’ is an ideal choice for regular night clubbers. It’s a fun watch, handsome and rugged and I wish all the guys in my office would wear them…instead of the dreadful boring white and black dial watches !!!


Fastrack ‘Bikers is another special collection by Fastrack, which draws its inspiration from the spirit of biking and freedom. The prices also have been kept very affordable. Similarly, the theme of ‘Army’ in the Fastrack sunglasses has been expressed through colour and finish associations with the army. Like watches, all frames come with a form of gun metal finish giving the styles a rugged and raw look, which is very army.
I am just crazy over Ad designing and if you have seen their ads, they are simply novel. They have included handsome rugged Virat Kohli along with Genelia.ooooHHHHH!!!! Saw that ATM Ad??? Where Genelia covers the ATM camera with her Fastrack bag, while they romance…Tooo Coooollllllllll. I was laughing so much when I saw this Ad, its like giving tips to the college goers, where to go when there is no place to kiss or hug !!!!!!!!!!! hehehehehehehe!!!!!!!!!! The recent Fastrack bags Ad with Genelia at the airport, romancing the Airport staffer with ‘Just Her Beautiful Eyes’ is simply incredible.
The best thing I like about the Entire Fastrack Thing is their fabulous Web-Site. Have you seen it?? Please do, if you haven’t as yet……….Its Worth a Visit. Hats Off to the Agency who designed it. Its http://www.fastrack.in/Products/Products.aspx?pt &&coll .
Its so Unique, so Cool, so Innovative. How well they display their products. They have their little ‘Green Room’ which houses the chilled out Fastrackers like Daljeet, the Musci DJ, Bryan the Dance Maestro, Katrina, the Diva (Have you’ll read my DP ‘Are you Man Enough to Handle your Diva???. If you haven’t, just head back to my DP’s after reading this and read it….)…Ooops went off-track, hehehehehe!!!!. Okay then Fastrack Green room has also Aarti, the Love Struck Girl, Zeeshan the Sporty Dude and R. Abhimanyu the Gizmo Wiz.
They also have a ‘Wall’, ‘Comic Strips, ‘The Movie Time’, ‘Chill Zone’ Page, a ‘Bunker Page’. They have ‘Games’, Downloads of Wallpapers and Screensavers, and would u believe !!!!!!!!!!!!! ‘A Flirt Box’ !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Coming back………..……..Friends, Cattie Recommends Fastrack Gear for this Festive Season. Go out and hit the nearest Fastrack Store and get yourself some Cool Eye Gears, A Watch that speaks of your Attitude and a Bag to go Rocking!!!!!!!!!!!
CATTIE

REVIEW ON RIVERDALE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL - PUNE

RIVERDALE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL
The Best Background School

RiverDale International School is a New Age school for Boys and Girls.  It is affiliated to ‘The University of Cambridge’. The School stands for the Motto “TRUTH ALWAYS, KNOWLEDGE FOREVER”.
Situated on the top of a beautiful hill and from far, it is truly picturestic,  spread over 50 picturesque acres, RiverDale is the most sought after Residential School in India today. For those of you, who would like to visit the place, its just 3 kilometers from Mulshi Dam, only approx 3 hours away from Mumbai and half an hour from Pune, connected by the Mumbai Pune expressway.
The school is located in picturesque surroundings, atop a hill. The school aims to provide stress free education to the child.
Address – Riverdale International Residential School
                 Village Rawade, Taluka Mulshi,
                 District – Pune – 412 108,
                 Maharashtra,
                 India.
                      admission@rispune.com
riverdaleintl@hotmail.com,
                 Tel Nos : 91 020 -  3254 4965  / 3294 0442.
           
The School is adjacent to the Mahindra United World College and is in close proximity to other reputed educational institutions such as the Symbiosis Institutes and the Mercedes Benz School.

The School located in the midst of lush green hills, flora and overlooking the river, makes it so Beautiful and Splendid that the Child is Nourished by a confluence of Learning and  Nature making it a Perfect Environment to Nurture a Youth into a Mature, Dynamic Adult of tomorrow.
Curriculum / Board
ICSE, IGCSE. Students can choose between the two boards when they enter Grade 9.

RIS  is an English – medium school offering the ICSE and ISC curriculum. Admissions are open to qualified students at all grade levels from Standards 1 to 12. The school academic calendar commences from May and the school year ends in April. However admission enrollments begin from November.
RIVERDALE’S MISSION

·         To Train a New Generation of Youth who will excel Morally and Academically.
·         To Create a Generation of World Citizens dedicated to serving Humanity.
·         To Emphasize Understanding over mere accumulation of Information.

The School’s focus is on “Student Learning” and efforts are geared towards building a strong learning community of staff and students. It seeks to provide quality education to its students and instill into its Students the Spirit to Compete and the Capacity to excel.

The School has brilliantly incorporated Community Service in their Curriculum through regular Visits to villages, orphanages etc, with the endeavor to build Citizens who are committed to Serving Humanity.

RiverDale International School is well known for its Strong Academic Program, Excellent Sports and Residential Facilities and Well Qualified Faculty.

EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
The approach at RIS, is to Encourage Student Initiative in the learning process  so that the student becomes an Independent and Life Long Learner. The Teaching Methods in the school are structured to foster a Love for Learning.  The approach to Education is thus participative and enquiry-based and promotes a Healthy Interaction between the teachers and their students. 
The development and progress of each student is reported to parents regularly at the regular PTA meetings. The education of students is largely founded on Indian values, with awareness and appreciation for western progress and development.
Co-Curricular activities include Debates, Public-Speaking, Elocution, Quiz, Theatre Arts, Music and Vocational Training along with participation in Inter-School Competitions and associating with other schools in the region.
Annual Day Functions, Sports Day activities and other periodic school events ensure student participation at all levels. The following facilities have been provided for achieving All Round Excellence in Education;
1.      Spacious Classrooms
2.      Multi-Media Computer Laboratories
3.      Well equipped science laboratories for Physics, Chemistry and Biology
4.      Arts and Crafts Studio
5.      Large Library
6.      Music Hall with practice rooms
7.      Audio-Visual Room for computer aided classroom Instructions.
8.      Auditorium 
9.      Amphitheatre

DORMITORY FACILITIES
Students’ Well-Being and sense of Comfort are Top Priorities at RiverDale International Residential School. The Dormitories where the students stay, is like a ‘Home Away from a Home’ where there is Cleanliness, Relaxing, Socializing and Studying facilities.
Each dormitory is headed by a House-Parent living within the Dormitory Premises. They are responsible for creating a Family Environment with Loving Supervision and Guidance, to the students. There are presently 5 Dormitories, which are uniquely named after an Individual Virtue; Fellowship, Unity, Harmony, Peace and Wisdom.
Each floor of the Dormitory has a Lounge and a Recreation room. The toilet block of the Dormitories has western-style toilets and bathroom with hot water facilities. Dorm-Parents take Personal Interest to oversee the Academic progress and Overall development of the students. 
FOOD & CATERING FACILITIES
A Modern and Spacious Kitchen serves both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Food starting from the ethnic Indian cuisine of rice, dal, roti, and vegetables to typical Punjabi favorites like tandoori chicken, mutton, etc. Seasonal fruits, variety of salad, sweet dishes and ice-creams, along with cool milk shakes makes up a healthy school diet. Riverdale Food Services caters a well balanced meal for everyone.
The Fortnightly Menu is comprehensive and provides a variety of delicious food. Emphasis is laid on keeping the Kitchen area Clean. The Vegetarian cooking area is entirely Separated from the Non-Vegetarian. Chinese and Western meals are served twice a week. The food served is Healthy, Wholesome and Nutritious. 
All students take their meals in a separate Dining Hall. Utmost care is taken to maintain an immaculately Clean and Hygienic Food preparation area. Here also, the students are monitored by their respective Dorm Parents to each every type of vegetable and fruit, avoid wastage of food and carry their own plates to the wash trays after they finish eating.
On Saturdays and Sundays, the students are allowed to avail of a well stocked Tuck Shop where they get an outlet for spending on fast Food Items, quick Bites, Snacks, Beverages, Personal Items, etc. The Cafeteria serves as a meeting point for parents and children, whenever permitted by the School Management.

MEDICAL FACILITIES

RiverDale International Residential School has an Infirmary which provides for the immediate medical needs of the students. An experienced, round the clock Medical Nurse closely monitors all the Health Issues. The School has a visiting Doctor, coming in thrice a week, to attend to ailing students and to assist the Nurse in Routine Medical Checks.  In case of emergencies, students are taken in the school ambulance to a Pune City hospital and the parents or guardians are immediately intimated.

INFRASTRUCTURE/FACILITIES
Ø  Spacious Classrooms
Ø  2 Multi-Media Computer Laboratories
Ø  Well equipped science laboratories for Physics, Chemistry and Biology
Ø  Arts and Crafts Studio
Ø  Large Library
Ø  Music Hall with practice rooms
Ø  Audio-Visual Room for computer aided classroom Instructions
Ø  Auditorium
Ø  Amphitheatre
Ø  Ambulance Service
Ø  Dispensary
Ø  Dormitory
Ø  Cricket Academy
Ø  Two Tennis Courts
Ø  Two Basket Ball Courts
Ø  Volley Ball Court
Ø  Rrecreation room
Ø  A fully furnished gym
Ø  FootBall Ground
Ø  Horseback Riding Paddock and Trail
Ø  Swimming Pool

CAMPSITE

RiverDale International Residential School own a campsite at Khopoli spread over 6 acres of land. Nestled among the hills of the Sahyadri Range, the campsite is fully equipped to cater to 60 people at a time.
The site has an area allocated for tents with attached toilets and hot water. The large covered gazebo is a favourite among the youngsters for evening entertainment and dancing.  With a spacious dining hall, a huge guest house and swimming pool, the campsite blends luxury with adventure appealing to every taste. The heavy duty generator also guarantees electricity and water at all times.
Activities like Burma Bridge Crossing, Rappelling, Archery, Rain dance and Rifle shooting make this experience a memorable one for all who have come here.   A huge natural lake in the wooded vicinity allows swimming and the hills are a trekker’s paradise.   Experts are called in to provide the necessary guidance and teach students various skills involved in each of the activities. Students are taken on Camps once every semester.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES


Music, as a soothing art form, is encouraged at RiverDale.  It has a fully equipped large music hall with 8 sound-proof individual practice rooms attached to it. Students are also encouraged to form their own band groups.  A good number of students sit for the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music Examinations (UK) every year.

FOUNDER OF THE SCHOOL
Mr. Farhang Azar is the Founder  of this Wonderful School. With a Heart of Gold, he has built his Dream School into a Truly Incredible Residential School with his Warmth and Affection. The School is not only known for its Beauty and Quality Education, but also for its All Round Balanced Education. Farhang Sir, studied in a boarding school, and since then he has envisioned to build his own School and thus came into existence Riverdale International Residential School, a School which is an Institute of his dreams.

THE PRINCIPAL  

The Current Principal of the School is Mr. Payam Shoghi. He is a very learned person with a past experience of 20 years in the education field. He is constantly Motivating the students towards achieving higher and higher grades in their Results. He has introduced so many reforms in the Education System at Riverdale, with Weekly Tests, Surprise Tests, Appraisal Tests, Counseling. Due to his constant endeavor to encourage the students to study and excel in their results, the average grades of the students have now crossed 80%.

His specialty has been the ability to inspire Innovation and Creativity among his teachers to help the students realize their diverse talents and improve on their potentialities. According to Mr. Payam Shoghi, the advantage of Riverdale being a Residential School, enables the staff to have a full–time access to students.  He always advises his students and tells them that “Each and Every Experience at RiverDale whether big and small is a Learning Moment for them”.
The students are strongly influenced by his invaluable teachings and directions and his gentle and friendly approach towards them, the results of which are being seen in the higher grades and the competitive and participating spirit of each and every student in Riverdale.
One of the Principal’s most Successful Motivation endeavors has been the creation of a ‘PRINCIPAL'S ROLL OF HONOUR’ Award. This award encourage the students to excel in their Academics. Students who fulfill the following criteria have the privilege to be listed in the Principal's Roll of Honour after every Terminal Examination:
  • An aggregate of 85% which includes all assessments during the course of the year.
  • The student should not be involved in any case of academic dishonesty.
  • The student should not have less than 60% in any subject.
The winning students enjoy certain Privileges which includes Dinners with the Principal, Special Outings, Self-Study Privileges, etc. The names of these students are also put up on the 'Merit Board' for the duration of the whole academic year. This gives a Mammoth Boost to the Morale of the student.


THE VICE PRINCIPAL  

Mr. Shaikh Murad Sarfraz, formerly Dean of RIS, has now been appointed as the New Vice Principal. Mr. Murad is known for his Disciplinary measures, which has enormously helped in shaping the Personality and Character of the students. He also oversees the Up-keeping of the Dorms where the students reside, their Personal Hygiene and Health and Fitness. The Dorm Parents also report to him and he makes sure that proper attention is given to each student in the Dorm. He is also instrumental in helping the students in preparing for their various contests like Debates, Elocutions etc.


STAFF

RIS is selective with its staff as the Importance of Good Staff cannot be stressed enough.
All Teachers are Qualified, Experienced and receive the benefit of Regular Seminars and     In-House Training Programmes. The teachers and students share a close knit group. The teachers share such a friendly relationship with the students and are always giving them Moral Support, Confidence and help to guide their young and vibrant minds in the Right Direction. Staff are expected to act as ‘Role Models’ in every way, to the students.


RIVERDALE’S PHILOSOPHY

Riverdale is know for its Strong Philosophy of creating an Environment of Mutual Trust, Support and Caring towards each other.
1.      The students are taught that as members of a community they should avoid wasteful or excessive
          spending or use of resources.
2.      The students are encouraged to develop an Attitude of Service to Others.
3.      The school ensures to maintain a Good Moral Conduct and Behavior in their students.
4.      The students are encouraged to go beyond the basic Academic Development and excel in sports
          and social skills also.
5.      The students are taught to create an Environment to Foster Personal Growth and the develop their
         Individual Capacity thus transforming Society through Service.
6.      RiverDale is known for its Healthy Community Feeling that is prevalent amongst their staff and
         students.

EXTRA COACHING
The School constantly evaluates their students and Extra Coaching is given in the form of Tutorials during the Leisure time of the students, to help them strengthen their skills in the subject in which they are lagging behind.
Students with above average performance levels of grades X (ICSE) and XII (ISC) are included in a Special ‘Scholars' Batch’ with an aim of helping these students achieve Higher levels of Academic Performance and Excelling in their Final Board Examinations. Highly Qualified External Faculty visit the school twice a week and work with these students at length, helping them gain deeper understanding of related concepts of the subjects covered.
PREFECT'S BOARD
In order to train the children in developing skills of Leadership, a Prefects' Board is established. This allows students to learn to uphold the School Values and Goals and to encourage their Peers in doing so too. Students learn a lot through this program in terms of Understanding of their class mates, handling Psychological Issues, Maintaining the Décor of the School and learning to Interact with all around in a Responsible Manner.


ADMISSION PROCEDURE:
The admission procedure begins by filling up the Online Application Enquiry Form, on their Web-Site www.riverdaleintl.com.
After filling the Online Application Enquiry Form, you will receive a welcome call to visit the school on an appointed date. On your arrival you shall be taken on a tour around the school campus and briefed about the Literature, Philosophy and Guidelines of the Institution.
The parents are then given an Application Kit which consists of the School Prospectus and a VCD of the school at a glance. You may download the Application Form and the Medical Form from the website.
On receipt of the Application Form and Registration Fee, the following Admission Tests are conducted :
·       For grade 4 to 6 -  English and Mathematics.
·       Grade 7 and 8  - English, Mathematics and Science.  
·       Grade 9 and 11  - English, Mathematics and Science.
The Admission Test is followed by an Individual Interview of the Parents and Students with the Founder / Principal. Once admission is granted, an Acceptance Letter is sent to the candidate. On receipt of all fees with the Accounts Office, that admission to RIS is confirmed.
Health / Medical Requirements:
A student with confirmed admission at RIS is required to submit the following medical documents to the school office :
1.   A complete general physical check up report.
2.   An ENT check up report
3.   Blood check up which includes Haemogram, Blood group, Random DSL, Blood  urea, S.Cholesterol and SG PT.
4.   Confirmation of Hepatitis A and B vaccination
5.   Report on any allergies of the child (if applicable)
Parents are required to mention all Medical History of the child to the School Nurse, to ensure that the student’s health is monitored and taken care of properly.
The approved School fee is different for the Indian and Overseas students. The Fee at the time of admission is non-refundable which includes Registration Fee, Admission Fee and Building Fund.

Annual School Fees includes the following:
Tuition Fee – includes course fees, use of library books, computers, science laboratory and its equipment and classroom.
Lodging Fee – includes dormitory accommodation.
Food services – includes daily school meals, snacks and bed-time milk.
Activity Fee – includes fee for admission to ‘all school sports/extra curricular programs’.
Medical Fee – includes round the clock treatments for everyday ailments. The residential nurse deals with these. Hospitalization and other major illnesses will be charged at actuals and debited to the Imprest Account. A statement will be submitted to the parents at the end of the year.
Music Fee – includes fee for group instruction lessons for one instrument or voice.
Laundry Charges – An additional amount is charged towards the child’s laundry.
Payment of Fees:
Fees for the Academic Year beginning in May is payable by April. Students with arrears in accounts at the end of the RIS Academic year will not be allowed to return to school at the commencement of the New term till all accounts are settled. A Late Fee Penalty of 18% per annum will be charged. School Leaving Certificate would not be issued till all accounts are cleared.

Other Expenses

This includes Field trips which are an essential part of academics and is optional. Students willing to participate in field trips would be charged accordingly. If a student causes damage to school property or other equipment, parents would be charged for repair or replacements. Any deliberate and intentional attempt to damage school property or equipment is breaching the discipline of school. Hence the student will be fined heavily.

ANNOTATION
If you are busy Career parents, and want your children to have the Best Education as well as develop their Personality and Skills and be Properly Cared for, to be safe, to be taught and trained by skilled faculty, to live in a Place which is a Second Home, which is not only Beautiful but also Environmentally Congenial, then RIVERDALE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL, IS THE BEST PLACE TO PUT YOUR PRECIOUS CHILD, WITH TOTAL ASSURANCE, THAT YOUR CHILD WILL BE HAPPY HERE.