Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Christmas at Orchard Road

The smiling server at the fast food chain says "Merry Christmas".
There are red coffee mugs at the neighbouring Starbucks.
Bright flashy lights that come with a "high voltage" warning.
Tall Christmas trees with their glitzy ornaments & some caroling.
Special deals; discounts; and queues for the free gift wrapping.
The "Sale" signs on the display windows are prominent & strapping.
Spend $100 on your bill and you get vouchers to shop some more.
With lucky draws you could win a car, phone, or shop even more.
Christmas on Orchard Road is not at all a subtle seducer;
Nevertheless he pulls another girl from the heartland into that Louis Vuitton store.

Friday, December 10, 2010

2010 in retrospect

It's that time of the year again! 2010 flew by; it was probably the fastest and busiest year of my life. The little toddler at home was definitely the highlight of the year. I don't think I ever consciously chose it, but work, friends and rest of the family took a backseat in my life this year - I was too busy being a mum; it consumed all my energy and heart and soul. There's positive growth to report on that front - While in 2009 I was an anxious, apprehensive mum; in 2010 I was a more confident mum and happier for it. So K may be a sugar-junkie and late on his potty-training milestones; but he is perfect & I am unfussed.

While H adapted easily to being a banker by day & a dad by evening; I had difficulty taking off my mother-hat that easily and was caught wearing it at work many times! Fortunately, I have a hugely supportive bunch of people at work.

I watched more TV in 2010 than ever before. And used the 'pause' button on the tv remote more frequently then ever before. Dining-in was always prefered to going out; and there was never enough incentive to wear that pretty black dress. But off-late, I am getting myself out of the rut. I dropped a size this year; yay! That got me motivated to pay some attention to personal grooming. I have a love-hate relationship with my new hairstyle (I love it the day its blow-dried & styled in the salon; hate it the following day). And as soon as I finish writing this post, I'm going to get an appointment for a pedicure.

That brings me to my resolution for the next year - I want 2011 to be more about me. I think I'll always be a mother first (as if I have a choice about that!) but I know I can be other things too. It takes energy & time, and I will work towards finding that.