Rice Sensory play for toddlers

RICE SENSORY PLAY

I decided to start with rice sensory play for my little bunny .

We can use food colouring to colour the rice and make it look more attractive for the child , however I decided to try it out without the colour. 

There are several benefits of playing with rice The sensory play  builds stronger neural pathways, assists motor development and language development, increases attention span, helps to calm anxious children, and is beneficial for children with Sensory Processing Disorder.

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Sensory play can be achieved with non-food items as well but what I really love about using taste-safe items such as uncooked rice, grains or pasta, is that I don't have to worry if my bunny puts a few grains in his mouth . All children do this and I have nothing to worry when he tries a few grains of rice and tries to bite the uncooked pasta. That's the reason why I avoided food colour on the rice. 

Food items are biodegradable and they provide loads of engaged play.

Selecting the rice - With a wide variety of rice in the Indian market, we are literally spoilt with choices. I avoided the expensive basmati rice, the broken rice and the ready packet rice. I selected a relatively fat grain rice which costs ₹40 kg . So I picked up 3 kgs for ₹120 only.

I love the fact that it lasts for a long time. Simply store the rice in an airtight container till the next use. It can last for approximately a year if well taken care of. 

I know that everyone has a different opinion about food as play and I respect that and don't intend to hurt anyone's feelings and sentiments.

#earlylearners #teachermum  #playathomemummy #stayathomemum #diymum #diykidstoys #toddleractivities  

pom pom play for toddlers

Pom pom Play 🥰🌐🔴

 My bunny 🤩 really enjoys playing with pom poms.  Pompoms are super fun! They are fluffy and come in different sizes and colours. They are awesome for the sensory play for toddlers , Today we had  this simple setup with different measuring cups and spoons and we transfered them using the different spoons or by hand to feel, touch and develop the fine motor skills. Bunny is learning just the 3 basic colors till now. He is learning to scoop and use a spoon is also a #practicallifeskill that all children need a bit later. 

Its safe to keep a watch on your bunny if he still puts everything in his mouth, since they are fluffy, soft and colorful its tempting to try out, hence never leave your child unattended. 

Pom pom play helps 👣Hand eye coordination

👣Development of fine motor skill.

👣Color recognition

👣Sensory play .Pom poms are available on @amazondotin or from a stationery shop. Its good to buy a variety of sizes and colours.

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#earlychildhoodeducation #earlylearning #learningisfun #learningthroughplay #playbased #momblog #onceuponatymee #earlychildhoodfun101 #playingislearning #earlychildhood #playmatters #playathome #invitationtoplay #teachersofinstagram #sensoryplay #pompomplay #bunnysdayout

#bunnyenjoyinghimself

Importance of outdoor play for toddlers

OUTDOOR PLAY FOR TODDLERS 🎠⛳ 

It goes without saying that every child should have ample outdoor play time. The whole-body movement, gross motor development, risk-taking, opportunity for cooperative play, loads of sunshine (natural vitamin D), and sound sleep at night which is most important for active toddlers—the benefits are endless. I take some time to gather the energy , but when we are out my bunny simply  L.O.V.E.S it.  Today was a bright sunny day and we went to the park to enjoy the sometime on the swing, slide and merry go round. 

 Toddlers under the age of 5 years need at least one hour per day of moderate to vigorously physical activity for proper physical and mental growth and development. So avoid being a couch potato and step outside with your toddler and burn those calories with a smile. 

Toddlers and birds

A simple fun activity like observing birds are actually building their brains, bodies, and characters for later life.

Simply activities like climbing trees, exploring rocks and butterflies, or even just playing games outdoors with friends help benefit children intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically as well. 

Being outside and surrounded by nature, children experience an ever-changing and free-flowing environment that stimulates all their senses.

Bunny really enjoys being outdoors and I enjoy taking him out too where he can explore and learn.

Summer outfit - @firstcryindia

Black shoes - @firstcryindia

Milk and rose water bath for toddlers

MILK AND ROSE WATER BATH

My bunny is obsessed with water play and his father calls him an exotic frog, for all the time he enjoys being in the bathtub splashing with water.

All you do is introduce a rose and pour some warm milk on your bunny while in the bath tub . I always give him few containers and animals to extend the play and make some fine motor work while bathing too.

Why this combination....

Milk has skin nourishing properties for the babys gentle and delicate skin. It softens and cleanses the baby's skin while encouraging skin regeneration. A rose petal milk bath is a luxurious bath for the child that combines the skincare benefits of rose petals and milk.

The rose 🌹 petals also help the child improve its fine motor skills since breaking the petals is a good activity for the toddler and my bunny really enjoyed his bath and was very calm and felt relaxed after this bath.

Always remember you need to supervise children in all water  activities, and if you’ve got a toddler then be careful as rose petals are a choking hazard!

Happy splashing

Teaching toddlers the importance of trees

The best way to teach kids about the importance of trees is to demonstrate eco-friendliness by example. If they see you planting trees and caring for the environment, they will value the idea. Make it a point to plant trees and take care of plants, this will get your child involved in caring for plants, trees and our environment.

I've introduced my bunny to collecting seeds that have fallen down from the trees 🌲🌳🌴 and we will plant them into saplings.

Research suggests that lasting attitudes towards nature and the environment form in the first few years of a child’s life; hence instilling environmental awareness in very young children is a challenge and an exciting opportunity for parents.  Experiences in nature in early childhood have  shown to contribute to environmental awareness.

Trees are an important part of our world. They provide wood for building and pulp for making paper. They provide homes for insects, birds and other animals. Trees breathe in carbon dioxide and breathe out oxygen purifying the air we breathe.
Teaching the importance of trees at an early age helps them to understand the importance of trees right from the very start.

Benefits of eating pomegranate

Pomegranate is one of the healthiest fruits on earth. Pomegranate has many incredible health benefits for your body. It is called as a divine fruit because it is the most mentioned fruit in theological books. Pomegranate has anti-oxidant, anti-viral and anti-tumor properties and is said to be a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, as well as folic acid. This amazing fruit consists three times as many antioxidants as both wine or green tea. Consuming pomegranate also lowers the risk of all sorts of diseases. Following are the benefits of pomegranate:

1. Protects us from free radicals
Pomegranate is rich in anti-oxidants and thus protects our body from free radicals, which are responsible for premature ageing. Free radicals are formed by exposure to sun and due to harmful toxins in the environment.

2. It thins your blood
Antioxidants present in pomegranate act as a ‘thinner for your blood’. The seeds of pomegranate prevent your blood platelets from forming clots and coagulating.

3.Battles coronary illness and prostate malignant growth

Two examinations guarantee that pomegranate juice can battle prostate malignant growth. An examination demonstrated that pomegranate juice eased back the development and even executed refined malignant growth cells. What's more, as we have just referenced in the subsequent point, pomegranate juice diminishes the blood and therefore improves its condition which thusly forestalls cardiovascular infections.

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Ganpati decoration ideas for home

Ganesh Chaturthi 2019

 Ganesh Chaturthi or 'Ganeshotsav' is celebrated to respect the introduction of elephant-headed Lord Ganesha, otherwise called the God of astuteness, as per Hindu folklore. This year, the festivals of the stupendous celebration which is most mainstream in Maharashtra will start on 2 September. Consistently the nation apparatuses up for this fabulous celebration and considers imaginative approaches to adorn houses, lanes and pandals (tents where Ganesh symbols are housed) to invite Lord Ganesha. With the celebration practically around the bend, here are a couple of inventive and creative stylistic layout thoughts that can illuminate your Ganpati pandal and decorate your home.

Window hangings and brilliant drapes -

Hang some extravagant and wonderful sarees or dupattas vertically behind the Ganpati icon to make the appearance of scalloped blinds. To make it look progressively energetic, embellish your pandal with series of lights and blooms. Ensure the shades of the window hangings and drapes you are utilizing go with the subject and make the setting of the icon far and away superior.

Beautiful Rangolis

Rangolis' are the delightful examples drawn on the floor particularly during celebrations. Make delightful 'rangolis' utilizing hues accessible in the market or use rice flour blended with various hues to go the eco-accommodating way. You can likewise utilize flower petals or any bloom petals to make embellish the floor infront of your pandal.

Plants

Hippies celebrate! You can consider practice environmental awareness genuinely and enhance your home with live plants and their leaves for Ganpati. You can likewise finish your pandal by including bamboos, sticks, blooms and so forth. An additional advantage of the practice environmental safety topic is that it improves your home under spending plan as well as adds freshness to the general look.

Crisp or plastic blooms

There could most likely be nothing superior to blooms to design your home for this promising event. Browse an assortment of new and unadulterated blooms of various hues and organize them in wonderful examples. You can likewise mastermind them as bunches or on the highest point of the mandap. In the event that you are looking for a progressively customary look pick marigold blossoms. Get long strands of wreaths made of yellow marigolds and balance them behind the icon of Lord Ganesha just as on the different sides of the mandap.

Shaded Paper and torans

Another subject for Ganpati design is that you can put some beautiful papers to great use making torans. Feel free to make some sterling bloom designs with dynamic hued outline papers to add excellence to your imagination this Ganesh Chaturthi. You can likewise make shapes like fans, round and half roundabout pinwheels and so forth in brilliant hues and glue them on the back-mass of the pandal.

The Amazon is burning

The Amazon is burning and Furthermore, how awful is it contrasted with the past?

So far in 2019, the quantity of flames consuming over the Amazon is higher than anytime since 2010, which was an especially terrible year of dry spell. By a week ago, around 7,000 square miles of the woods were on fire, a region only littler than the size of New Jersey.

Most flames saw in the district are brought about by people. Many are set in recently cleared terrains so as to rapidly evacuate any abundance vegetation that has sprung up. Others are set in land that is still during the time spent being cleared, so as to make progressively open land for yields or steers.
Ranchers and farmers down woodland prior in the year and leave the felled trees to dry out. When the fallen trees have dried up, they set them ablaze, deserting an open swath of land prepared for farming activity now?

So far in 2019, the quantity of flames consuming over the Amazon is higher than anytime since 2010, which was an especially awful year of dry spell. By a week ago, around 7,000 square miles of the woods were on fire, a territory only littler than the size of New Jersey.
Most flames saw in the locale are brought about by people. Many are set in recently cleared terrains so as to rapidly expel any overabundance vegetation that has sprung up. Others are set in land that is still during the time spent being cleared, so as to make increasingly open land for harvests or dairy cattle.

Ranchers and farmers down woods prior in the year and leave the felled trees to dry out. When the fallen trees have parched, they set them ablaze, deserting an open swath of land prepared for farming movement.

Flames brought about by people and deforestation appear to be unique. Scientists can likewise distinguish deforestation-related flames by the thick tufts of smoke that surge high into the air. Those sorts of crest rise high since they are powered by immense quantities of dried-out trees, which consume hot and long, warming up the air section above them and filling the climate with overwhelming heaps of consumed material.

Both of those pointers are unmistakable in huge numbers of the flames consuming over the Amazon today, showing that they are filled by deforestation.
Earlier years, as 2005 and 2010, were likewise incredibly dynamic flame years, with tallies much higher than the current year's at this point in the season. The distinction, says Morton, is that those were a very long time with genuine dry spell, preparing to consume. Up until now, however, this year hasn't been especially dry, which makes the officially remarkable number of flames much all the more disturbing.

Photo credit- The internet

Six Home Remedies for Weight Loss

Six simple Home Remedies for Weight Loss

Do you want to lose weight and look slim then here in this is just the right page for some helpful tips that would be great for losing some weight and looking good too.you. Just have a look on these home remedies for weight loose easily.

1. Drink plenty of water:
As per the study water is very effective in order to lose weight. You must drink 7-8 glasses of water daily.

2. Use coconut oil:
While cooking you can use coconut oil instead of mustered or refined oil because it will reduce appetite. Actually coconut contains fats and triglycerides that helps to reduce appetite.

3. Add spicy food in your diet:
Yes, although it may sound quite weird but it is true that spicy food reduce appetite due to capsaicin presence.

4. Develop a good habit of exercise:
Whether, you choose aerobic or simple exercise but do on regular basis. Well aerobic helps to reduces weight fast due to calorie burn.

5. Eat healthy food:
In case you feel hunger, avoid to take junk foods, eat healthy and stay healthy. Add nuts, baby carrot, eggs in your diet to avoid excessive fat in your body.
In general it's good to prepare your goal to stay healthy not skinny.

6. Avoid aireated drinks and soft drinks:
Cold drinks and other liquid diet may trigger weight gain because liquid diet contain heavy amount of calories. So, avoid drinking cold drinks, energy drinks or other sugar containing liquids.

Hope this post would be helpful for you to achieve your goal to reduce weight and stay healthy.

Advantages of drinking coconut water

Advantages of drinking coconut water 

It's scrumptious, invigorating and furthermore happens to be beneficial for you. 

You can purchase fresh coconut water from here

In addition, it's stacked with a few significant supplements, including minerals that the vast majority don't get enough of.

Coconuts develop on enormous palm trees referred to experimentally as Cocos nucifera. In spite of the name, the coconut is naturally viewed as an organic product as opposed to a nut.

Coconut water is the juice found in the focal point of a youthful, green coconut. It sustains the natural product.

As the coconut develops, a portion of the juice stays in fluid structure while the rest matures into the strong white tissue known as coconut meat (1Trusted Source).

Coconut water shapes normally in the and contains 94% water.

Coconuts take 10 a year to completely develop. Coconut water regularly originates from youthful coconuts around 6–7 months of age, however it's additionally found in developed organic product.

One cup contains 44 calories.

Research has demonstrated that coconut water can lower glucose levels and improve other wellbeing markers in diabetic creatures (8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source).

In one investigation, diabetic rodents treated with coconut water kept up preferred glucose levels over the control gathering

A similar report likewise discovered that the rodents given coconut water had lower dimensions of hemoglobin A1c, demonstrating great long haul glucose control.

Another investigation saw that furnishing coconut water to rodents with diabetes prompted enhancements in glucose levels and decreases in markers of oxidative pressure.

Drinking enough liquids is significant for kidney stone aversion.

Albeit plain water is an incredible decision, one examination proposes that coconut water might be stunningly better.

Kidney stones structure when calcium, oxalate and different mixes join to shape precious stones in your pee.

These would then be able to shape stones. In any case, a few people are more helpless to creating them than others.


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Getaways near Mumbai in June

End of the week Getaways from Mumbai

On the off chance that you long to make tracks in an opposite direction from the buzzing about of Mumbai for some time, at that point there are an assortment of alternatives to browse. The mainstream visitor spots to visit close Mumbai incorporate the excellent slope stations of Western Ghats and beguiling shorelines along the Arabian Sea. Verifiable destinations, otherworldly places, experience center points and loosening up retreats are additionally on the rundown. To make tracks in an opposite direction from the warmth and bustle of regular day to day existence, there are alternatives of Khandala, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar and Saputara, to give some examples. The salubrious climate, astonishing activities, excellent spots to visit and the happiness of unadulterated air makes it include on the rundown of well known slope stations to visit close Mumbai. Go trekking, outdoors or basically relaxing in characteristic magnificence. Of the many, Goa is among the most prevalent vacation destinations from Mumbai. The shoreline state gives you a chance to get away from the urban areas and revel in the shores, watersports, parties and another rush. Alibaug, Daman, Ratnagiri and others are likewise a portion of the shorelines to visit close Mumbai. The picturesque environs along the Arabian Sea are restful, unwinding and furthermore give exciting fervors.

The plenty of profound goals around Mumbai offers the chance to look for the awesome. Shirdi, Nashik, Sangli, Omkareshwar, Trimbakeshwar, Jalgaon and Bhimashankar are known for sacred sanctuaries. These holy goals additionally are named among the greatest end of the week escapes from Mumbai. For legacy and social worth, there is no deficiency of spots to visit around Mumbai. Pune, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, Ganapatipule and Bijapur can be considered. The different fortifications, royal residences, recorded structures and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora Caves at these spots make them impeccable to return an outing to the past days. Wonder about engineering, the abilities of skilled workers and the sheer splendor of the draftsmen. Peruse through our rundown of spots to visit close Mumbai and select the goals which you locate the most alluring. Travel with companions, family or on a sentimental occasion, there are a serious number of short occasions from Mumbai. We additionally offer staggering bundles for visiting any of these goals. Simply plan an outing and set off for visiting these well known vacation destinations close Mumbai.

JWLA

Recently visited this gem of a place in Bandra Linking road 'JLWA' and had an amazing time dining here.

The place has everything going right for them, from a lavish layout to a complete jazzy bar, plush interiors and some real good music playing.

They boast of an extensive drinks menu comprising of classsic cocktails to in-house innovating cocktails to Bottle pour & Beers.

Cocktails that we Ordered : 

Maple Whiskey : Served in a long neck bottle and advised to drink straight up from the bottle, i prefered to pour it in a glass and enjoy this concotion. Whiskey & Kahlua mixed with maple syrus and assam tea with added cinnamon, this one is a pleasant surprise with every sip.

Crazy Love : Loved the presentation on this one, Whiskey mixed with bitters and ginger ale and topped with a smoked rosemary for the aromatic effect. Hit all the right notes for me.

Kala Kawa : On a sweeter side as it is a mix of Kaluha, Irish cream & vodka. Relishable in each sip!

JLWA kitchen does have some mouth watering dishes to match up with the dazzling cocktails we were sipping on.

These are some of the appetizers we  Ordered

Smoked Chicken Argula Salad : Always a preferred choice and JLWA makes it perfect. Smoked chili chicken and boiled eggs (Oodles of both) mixed with arugula leaves, beetroot and french beans sprinkled with balsamic vinegar.

Nimboo Kalimirch Chicken : As tender and juicy as they come, this was lemony flavored and succulent pieces of chicken waiting to be popped in our mouths.

Mutton Galouti Vol-AU-Vent : Mutton lovers standard choice but this one came on a puff rather than a traditional paratha disc , however it was really flavorful.

Greek Style Chicken Kebab : This is the complete package and can be eaten as an appetizer or a main course as well. Chicken seekh kebab served with pita bread & hummus with a side of salad and house pickles.

Jack Daniel Prawns : Star appetizer of the night, prefectly cooked prawns in a creamy garlic whiskey sauce. Your taste buds are in for a real treat with this one.

Desserts - It's always good to end something so good on a sweet note.

Classic Brownie : Rich chocolate brownie with side scoop of Hazelnut mousse, Caramel Cream with marshmellows. A spoonful of each of them together and it does not get better than this.

Summarizing in a simple yet bold statement - Tauba tera Jalwa Tauba tera Khana Tauba tera Daaru,  hain chamatkaar. 

Heavenly Hitchki

Hitchki has opened their newest and the 4th outlet in R City Mall Ghatkopar a month back and we have one more reason to rejoice, having visited the other 3 outlets and being a fan of their brand we ended up in their Ghatkopar outlet.Seating capacity is almost the same as all their outlets and the ambience makes you feel welcomed as always, glass panel as a wall on one side it gives an open view of the outside area and they have their own smoking room which is a plus for me.We were a group of 4 and decided to party out on the occasion of Children’s day.

Cocktails ordered (5/5) : If there is something I love; that is cocktails and when at Hitchki this cocktail love is very strong and it comes in big glasses!

Madeira Ki Matki : True to its name 1 litre of Sangria (Red/White) option to choose from mixed with vodka and loaded with fruits. A Wine lovers ultimate drink!
Scorpion Bowl : A strong combination of Rum (Dark & White) with Gin and Vodka mixed with grenadine for the tart & sweet flavor poured in with Pineapple & Orange juice.

Bubbly LIIT : A perfect blend of Tequila, Gin, Vodka & White Rum mixed with mango & pineapple juice with jalapeno gives it the sour & spicy flavor.

Foot Long : Rum (Dark, White & Spiced) mixed with Amaretto and a pint of Heineken dipped upside down. Love the taste - Love the presentation

Hum Saath Saath Hai : Gin, Vodka, White Rum &Tequila mixed with Apple punch; this deadly combination will hit you back. Potency Level 200%

Hail Mogambo : A version of Whiskey Sour with the extra ingredient being wine, this one comes in a skull shaped glass & is quite colorful to look at and tastes well too.

Whiskey Sour : A classic cocktail and Hitchki makes it the way I like it, with a little extra egg white in it.

LIIT Straight form Bihar : Hitchki’s take on your traditional Thandai mixed with Vodka, Rum & Gin, loved the taste on this one.

Appetizers & Mains ordered (5/5) : With their quirky names of dishes which brings a smile to your face, it also tickles your taste buds in the right way.

Mere Tandoori Momo Aayenge : A personal favorite and I always order it at Hitchki. Your regular Momos but tandoored and spiced perfectly.

Naan Achi Tang : Chicken Leg with Paratha, Chicken here is tandoored to perfection and served along with a Naan. 

Kakori Mail : Mutton Seekh served with your green chutney.

Calamiri Kalimiri : Fried squids, a perfect finger food to go along with your cocktails, don’t forget the accompanying dip.

Prawns Jaye Par : Your classic butter garlic prawns, flavorful & well presented.

Rawas Mall : Succulent chunks of Indian Salmon made in tikka style and served. 

Cheese mala Chitakli : Hitchki’s version of Chicken Malai tikka with melted cheese on top, soft and juicy. 

Savji Mutton : Tender boneless mutton pieces cooked in a flavorful gravy and served along with Roti. 

Ja Surmai Ja : 2 large pieces of Surmai fish cooked in red gravy and served along with rice. This is simply soul satisfying food. 

Dal Khicdi : Comfort food and Hitchki’s version will give you the satisfaction of a complete meal.

Desserts : Again quirky names, beautiful presentation & high on sweetness – Hitchki has a lot of desserts to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Chocolate Lava Kulfi : Best of 2 worlds come together here! Choco Lava Cake with Kulfi, the hot & cold combination will definitely confuse your taste buds into thinking what should it enjoy more.

Jungle Mein Mangal : Hitchki’s take on Black forest pastry with some beautiful chocolate petal dressing.

Hitchki has maintained the standard & the quality of food they serve in their newest outlet and as always we had a gala of a time at Hitchki and waiting to go back for more!

Fantastic Farzi Cafe

Farzi cafe is a well-known Bistro with a modern twist presenting global cuisine with an added Indian influence. Molecular gastronomy at its best without digging a hole in your pocket. It has opened a year back in Oberoi Mall Goregaon;and this 3^rd outlet in Mumbai is really spacious as it can accommodate 90 people and the seating is quite comfy, the high ceiling and a hanging life size boat adds to the finesse touch.

Started off with these refreshing Mocktails – “Farzi OK’ & “Litchi Aam Panna” Both were light on flavors and well made; had no trace of excess sugar or syrup used in them. Really refreshing , just what you will want to sip on , on a hot summer day,

Appetizers : Clearly can see the culinary skill & style in play here for each dish being served!

-       Black Sesame Chicken Tikka with Sesame Ash & Mayo Dip : Welcome change to the palates from the traditional Red N Greens; succulent and juicy chicken chunks with a distinct flavor to it. Ideal way to enjoy this is to dip it with accompanying mayo and brush it over with the edible Ash. A hint of crunchy delight awaits! (Highly Recommended)

-       Tempura Fried Prawns Nimbbo Mirch Air : Deep fried battered Prawns with a crisp coating and a foaming of Lime & Chili; flavorful in each bite!

-       Tandoor Mutton Chops, Garlic Toum & Coriander Sponge : Tender mutton chops marinated to perfection and tandoored just right and served along with green chutney; easy to peel off the bone using your fork but truly relishing once you get your hands dirty on this one.  (Highly Recommended)

-       Dal Chawal Arancini served with Achar, Papad & Chutney : Presentation 10/10!! Our homely Dal & Rice styled into Arancini balls topped with mild Achar & Chutney and a roasted papad on top looking like a crown. Definitely worth trying out!

-       Guntur Chili Chicken : Oriental influence on this one; fried chicken & veggies tossed in.

Main Course : Simply spoiled for choices here!

-       Slow cooked Baby Lamb Shanks in Desi ghee served with Khasta Kulcha : The name says it all except the flavors in this were like a celebration of spices coming together. Simply put a well-cooked flavorful & tender Nalli Nihari version from the kitchen of Farzi Café for you to gorge upon.

Desserts : Things got Creative & Innovative here!

-       Parle G Cheesecake : 2 portions served; Cheesecake sandwiched between Parle-G biscuits served in a bed of milk custard with an essence of cookie dough for the additional taste. An ardent fan of unadulterated Cheesecake but kudos to Farzi Café to experiment with this one.

-       Ras Malai Tres Leches with Rose Petal Net : Hands down the best version of Ras Malai I’ve ever had and also a signature dessert of Farzi Café. From the presentation to the taste this will bowl you over. (Definitely Recommended)

Farzi translated from Persian language simply means Illusion; except Farzi Café creates a real impression on your mind with a memorable dining experience that goes far beyond great food and great service!

Overall its a fantastic dining experience and the service is prompt. I simply loved the innovation of dishes here and would surely visit again. A must visit if you like to try out something different.

Dazzling Deolali - Holiday time with Family

Deolali is a place that's always been and will be close to my heart.  For the simple reason, it connects me with my family. We get together and spend quality time together here.  Get the time to talk,  share our experiences,  play cards,  eat good food,  go for a midnight walk just to eat ice cream,  just be ourselves with no limitations whatsoever. 

Staying in Deolali or Nashik - There are many hotels and resorts in Nashik,  however few in Deolali. We stay at the Naterwala sanitorium ( guest house)  that is exclusively first parsis.  Just opposite is the Bahadurji Sanitorium which is spread over wide acres of land and also has an old age home for the parsis. 

Things to do - There is a lot to do while in Deolali however let me share with you what we usually do. We usually cover both places,  namely Nashik and Deolali. 

There are many places of worship to visit and the temples are beautiful and have a history behind it. 

We visit the vineyard,  sometimes it's a local one or we drive down to Sula vineyards where we can enjoy the wine tasting followed by lunch in their restaurant. 

Pandavlena caves - Please dont leave this place without visiting these caves that are on a mountain. You can read my blog for more information. 

Weather - It's a dry and cold climate and nights are really pleasant. Remember to carry one woolen wear for the nights. 

Food - We enjoy the food served to us at Ratis kitchen.  It's prepared with love and that's what makes it easier even more delicious.  This is the traditional parsi chicken dhansak,  brown rice and mutton kebabs with vegetable salad.  Enjoy it while its hot with a beer.  The best mewl combination.  Cheers and Nusejun as my mother says.  

Traveling to Deolali - You can either travel by train that stops at Deolali for 2 minutes or drive down which takes approximately 3 and a half hours to reach. 

Lush greenery, tall trees,  colorful flowers and fresh air all around.  It's like a walk in the forest.  We couldn't help taking pictures and my signature selfie with the Bogenvilia flowers started here. How I love this place and the feel of this place.  This is our fire temple which has a fire burning inside continuously. Its located inside the sanitarium. 

We always cluck loads of pictures here and this puxture with the boganvillea flowers is my signature selfie. 

Charming Calangute Beach - Goa

#onceuponatymee  Everytime I visit Goa I must visit the calm and cozy Calangute beach that's situated in North Goa. There is something magical about this beach,  not sure what exactly it is, is it the white sands. Is it the water sports,  the waves,  the clean beach ,  the food in the shacks,  or just watching the sunset into the sea.  Really can't give one reason,  but all of them add up to make this my favorite memorable and most treasurable beach in Goa. 

When I am the right time of the year to visit and explore the beaches of Goa - We need to keep in mind that there is a season and off season on the beach,  visiting the beach is allowed throughout the year,  however if you specifically want to enjoy the water sports ,sit and unwind in the shacks ans enjoy the activities I've mentioned below, you must ensure you are visiting during the season time. Off season is during the monsoons. I have visited Goa during the season and off season both and enjoyed more during the off season. Its a matter of choice and differs from person to person. There is something magical about letting the raindrops hit your face and the waves hitting your feet at the same time. Really can't be a better feeling.  It's literally like having the cake and eating it too. 

What are the things you can do while you're on the beach. 

There is really so much to do and we are literally spoilt with choices here. 

Water sports - First there was a lot of bargaining for water-sports and foreigners were fleeced,  however now it's a standard rate for everyone,  there is no bargaining involved.  The rates are standard and put up on the board.  There are flags up for us to identify the high tide and lifeguards are there time warn people enter the water as well. 

Unwinding in a shack - So pick a shack and settle down. Enjoy the sea breeze and listening to the sound of the waves while you sip on some drinks and enjoy the starters. At night its even better since the shacks have a candle lit on the table and the tables and comfortable chairs are placed right on the beach for you to dig your feet in the sand.

Foot massage - There are men and women roaming with a variety of oil and offer to give a foot or back massage while you are at the shack. Some even have special seating near the sea for a massage .They charge around 200 rupees for a foot massage and their rates are negotiable. Its okay to tip them, but remember don't get fleeced.

Tattoos and hair braiding - There are women who will beautifully braid your hair with different colour ribbons. Yes, they do it really well and charge around 100 rupees for a single hair braid. Temporary tattoos are offered by boys , however I know of people who have got an allergic reaction to the black ink used , since its not of good quality. I strongly recommend not to make a temporary tattoo on the beach. 

Making sand castles and collecting shells - We love to settle down on the sand and get digging to make a beautiful sand castle. We decorate it with shells and write our names on it. This is a fun activity and m favourite too. 

Last but not the least,  just settle down on the sand and watch the sunset into the beautiful ocean. Every evening the colour of the sky, sea and clouds are different.  Just like our different moods,  nature also talks in mysterious way. Watching the sunset is one of the best experience of my life right from childhood and this connects me to my childhood memories of me watching the sunset into the sea from my balcony.  

Its the perfect place to unwind. I'm so in love with this beach that I'm free and I'm myself here. I can literally live here.

#BlogchatterA2Z

Bayroute - Middle Eastern Dining experience

B is for BAYROUTE - My first time dining in a Middle Eastern Specialty cuisine restaurant and now Im simply loving the food and wonderful experience. #BlogChatterA2Z

Visited Bayroute in Powai on a late afternoon and the place had a good occupancy, as soon we entered we were shown to our table and menu handed over to us, which we need to read from the end to start, thats backwards like they do in the middle Eastern countries.The smallest of the detail has been taken into consideration; from the décor which reminds you of the palatial interiors with a hue of Pink all over to the soft traditional folklore music which plays in the background. 

We started off with few drinks and enjoyed the beautiful presentation here.

Dessert Storm - Its an In-house cocktail; Whiskey based and comes along with edible soil in a box filled with smoke; the presentation alone will mind blow your imagination here. First sip and you realize the thickness level of the concoction with a hint of Clove & Gulkhand with a flowery design on top. This is a must have if you are a fan of  Whiskey based cocktails.

Old Fashioned- The Old Fashioned had the right amount of sugar & bitters. A neat drink to sip on while feasting on all the lip smacking appetizers!

Coming to the food; each dish is an experience in itself and prepared authentically!

Appetizers :

Dukkah Lamb : A complete meal in itself, comes with shredded lamb in the middle of thick parsley sauce with a light sprinkle of pomegranate and accompanied by some sauteed veggies and hot rotis.

Salmon Kebab - Norwegian Salmon used in this preparation; perfectly grilled chunks of Salmon served with harissa spiked broccoli with a side of Cucumber & fresh coconut salad.

Kataifi Rubyan : Phyllo dough strings wrapped around Prawns and deep fried served on a bed Chive Pesto sauce. Give it a try if you haven’t had it.

Kebab Istanbul : Skewered minced lamb - Really well marinated and cooked to perfection served along with a side of fries and Tahini sauce. Dip the minced lamb in the Tahini sauce and you can experience flavors at a new high! 

Cumin Lamb Kebab : A version of Mutton Galouti but flavored a bit different. Minced Lamb patties placed on thick sesame crusts and served along with a dressing of yoghurt & mint. Its something different , yet worth trying if you are a fan of Galauti kebabs. 

Mains  Course- I was really impressed with the presentation and taste. Its an all new level of food.

Salmon Chermoula : Norwegian Salmon steak fire roasted to perfection served with Potato pancakes (Latkes) topped with finely cut paste of Tomato, Coriander & Basil and a side of Green Beans. This dish was perfect in all the ways and a celebration of flavors; must have if you are visiting Bayroute. (Compulsorily Recommended)

Rubyan Meshwi : Presentation will get you WOW & Taste will take you a level Higher! Tiger Prawns are charcoal grilled and served on a thin bed of mashed sweet potato & finely cut paste of Tomato, Coriander & Basil with grilled Asparagus on the side. The Prawns is simply bursting with flavors and once mixed with the add-ons turns it into something at a different level for Prawn lovers.

Desserts : Coming to the last but one of the best part of our dining experience at Bayroute!

Baklava : A dessert with too much drama but surpasses the expectation. A real Rose dipped in liquid nitrogen and crushed in front of you and sprinkled on a generous slice of Baklava; this slice comes with a layer of gulkhand Ice cream along with a generous dosage of Almond & Pistachios neatly places between layers of Phyllo sheets. Baklava at Bayroute is not just a dessert but an experience to be had! 

Fluffy Cheesecake : A Cheesecake slice topped with a scoop of ice-cream with White chocolate and some crushed cookies,  I think this would be a lot better without the Chocolate & Cookies since the cheesecake itself is so delicious , it really doesnt need any ad on flavours.

Bayroute is truly the epitome of tribute to the Middle Eastern & Mediterranean cuisine and will keep you calling back for more of their culinary magic.Its truly one of the best dining experience I have had in a while. 

#onceuponatymee