"Feel Fine"

A lazy weekend...down by the river...

"Changes"

Disclaimer: I have come to be pretty horrible at this whole updating my blog thing. My sincere apologies for all you Amulya fans out there! I'm only half kidding ;)
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Change is a scary thing. It can be anything from fantastic to devastating or anything in between. Yet, no matter what it is, change is always scary. It forces us to shed the old routine and learn a new one. It opens our minds to tuck away our past perspective and adopt a new one. Sometimes it allows us to find new meaning.

We are creatures of habit. We get up every morning from the same side of the bed. We check our email, check our phones for missed calls, and contemplate what is for dinner everyday. We crawl into the same side of the bed each and every night. What happens when those habits are threatened? What happens when change takes over and our lives take on new shapes?
It's hard to deal with changes to our routine. We never truly know if the change is for the best, but we have to allow ourselves to believe that it is, if only to make the most out of the possibilities. Yet, the challenge that remains is being able to coalesce the new with the old. Sometimes we are forced to not only adapt for ourselves but also foster the change and ease transition for those around us.

Change is a constant in life and we all know it. It's not easy, but we must only remember that it is always, always for the better.

Feel Good List vol. 3

Yes, it has been a while. Yes, I am alive. And yes, I am lazy. Nevertheless, here I am...back to posting. So let's catch up with some of my current "happies".

1) 2 hour workouts and the great, yet sore, feeling that comes afterwards.
2) My guy. Took me a while to realize what a catch he really is...I'm lucky.
3) My sister and her guy coming to visit. It's been a while.
4) Upcoming trips to Northern Michigan (to see Sarah!! and drink Boston Coolers) and then to California.
5) 90 degree weather... and the keys to the pool.
6) El Camino Real: amazing Mexican fare and highly intoxicating margaritas. Seriously, we are basically talking straight up tequila.
7) Making new friends at the gym (of which I don't even belong).
8) Finding a new video gaming buddy, Trooper John. Who has also given me the gift of being able to speed and get away with it. :D

"Circle of Friends"

A little photo collection of my weekend with 3 of my favorite people...

"Graduate"

Introducing...

Amulya R., M.B.A.

☺

"Tripping"

And I'm back!! Forgive me father for it has been many days since my last post.

I had this long, earth shattering post all typed out and then the browser crashed. So sad for you all. ;)

So, I'm finally back on the blog circuit, posting my inner most thoughts for all of you. I'm sitting here in my home away from home, in India. Sweating it out in 100+ degree temps and loving it. My mom and I came here on a surprise visit to my family to celebrate some birthdays and anniversaries. They loved it, so all the heat and stress and money is so worth it. Even through all the family tension, drama, and whatnot it's all worth it. My family is not dysfunctional, it's just full of completely distinct characters...ones that don't always get along very well together. But are always good for some comic relief...just sitting and watching. Good times, good times.

I'll post more later. Just wanted to check back in and let you all know I'm still alive. And don't expect me to answer my phone if you call me...my roaming charges are $3/minute here...YIKES!

"The Long & Winding Road"

Well, still no luck so far on the big job. I'll just say that HR in general is a lazy bunch of individuals, pretty much wherever you go. So, we'll see about this job opp. As long as I've got a job by mid-summer I assume I won't go crazy. Although, I might get close.

So, I'm graduating in two weeks. Granted I still have to pass two final exams and two big projects/case reports, but if all goes well I will officially be a degreed MBA. I also recently earned a nomination to join the International Honor Society, but I'm too busy with group projects to go to the Induction ceremony. Go figure. After all is said and done, it's been a long road. I'm not quite to the end of it as yet, but it's fast approaching. Being in college teaches you more than just your trade or profession. More importantly, it teaches you about people. It opens your mind to so many things, good and bad. It's a struggle sometimes, but it's worth it, professionally and personally. Yet, it's still a long and sometimes frustrating road and I can't wait for the accomplishment to set in. If you want my graduation announcement send me your mailing address ;)

"This Devil's Workday"

The world is a very scary, very unpredictable, very nonsensical place. And it's days like Monday that make you not only thankful for the people you have, but thankful for the time you have had as well. In a world with the possibility of what happened yesterday, every moment seems priceless. There aren't many words to explain this event, so I won't even try. It makes no sense, and I hope it never will.

"Sitting, Waiting, Wishing"

I feel like I'm in some sort of purgatory right now. And no, not because at this moment I'm reluctantly watching American Idol. Sanjaya is just not good by the way. Is he for real?! I digress...
Yesterday, I met with the VP of a major national market research firm here in town. Seriously, the vice president. It was a huge deal. Not everyone gets the chance to sit down and chat about jobs with the corporate second in command. So, it went well, but of course he can't just offer me a job right on the spot. The current status is him sending my resume to HR with his comments and recommendation. That's all well and good, but it leaves me to my current state, which is of sheer anxiety. I feel like I'm stuck in a middle ground, waiting to either be pushed off into rejection or lifted up into total contentment. There is so much riding on this potential job, a position in which I can see myself thriving and growing and simply enjoying, and I can't imagine how I'll feel should it not go through. I can imagine, however, the grin on my face and spring in my step should it go through. So, I'm on shaky ground, so to speak, for the time being. I'm checking my email every 26 seconds and I'm running to the phone every time it rings hoping to hear an HR rep mispronounce my name on the other end. I don't think I will have ever been so happy to hear someone stutter through my name. ;)
Wish me luck...pray...say ten Hail Marys...rub a genie in a bottle! Or just cross your fingers for me!

"Funny How It Fades Away"

Here's a topic:

I don't celebrate Easter, or even Christmas for that matter. So, I don't even pretend to know the true meaning and significance of the holidays. I am, however, quite perplexed as to what the Easter bunny and painting eggs has anything to do with the resurrection of Christ. Kids are often brought up to believe the Easter bunny is real. That, and he comes down the chimney just like Santa Claus?!?! What's that all about? I had a good discussion the other day with a friend, another non-Christian, where we contemplated the meaning of said Easter bunny and his/her place during the Easter holiday. I posed the thought that to most young people, the true significance and depth of a holiday like Easter, while not void of meaning, has no entertaining value. Only with some tangible means of celebration, i.e. sitting on the Easter bunny's lap or going on an egg hunt, can one make a connection and find gratifying meaning to the holiday. Eventually, the notion of that entity's existence fades away, and meaning of the holiday may or may not be found.
While I am not against the idea of the Easter bunny or festivities surrounding the holiday, I just don't quite get the concept. In the culture and religion in which I was raised, there are no conjured up representations of faith or spirituality that come anywhere close to Santa Claus or the Easter bunny. While I admit that the origins of Santa Claus and the Easter bunny are infact there, I suppose I just don't agree with how they have become tried and true representations of much deeper and meaningful spiritual occassions.

Discuss amongst yourselves...

"That's My Story"

If you ever want a glimpse into my life as a first generation Indian American, born to immigrant parents, then go see The Namesake. It's not a true story and while there are many differences in detail between the story and my life, it is still eerily telling of my life and my family. A lot of people I know will see the similarities and even see some differences, but I am convinced that this movie will shed light on where and how I stand in life, here in the United States. Not only my life but the lives of so many others born to immigrant parents. It's a great movie...one that had my eyes welling up with tears at times, and laughing out loud at others. So, if you've ever wondered what life looks like from my point of view, go see this movie. You'll enjoy it.

"Frankie Goes to Hollywood"

My latest TV obsessions, in no particular order…because I HAVE SENIORITIS! I find solace in television during this ulcer-inducing time in my life.


Scrubs - I do believe I could marry Zach Braff someday.

The Black Donnellys - These Irish are hot. Scary, but hot.

What About Brian - Not the best show and they have issues, but I still kinda wish I was one of them.

The Office - No explanation needed.

LOST - What does it all mean?!?!?!

Ugly Betty - Beyond all the hype, it truly is a smart show.

“Did I Shave My Legs For This?”

Don't believe all the hype...boys are stupid!! It's all or nothing, never anything in between. Sometimes you just live and learn the hard way, time and time again. L

“Headed for the Future”

I have senioritis in the worst possible way. It's my last semester of MBA and while my classes are nowhere close to cake, I have absolutely no motivation to put forth an ounce of effort. It's like senior year of high school all over again. Yet, unlike the lazy days of high school, the challenge now lies in securing a future before these school days come to an end. Graduating, or the thought of graduating I should say (I have yet to pass my classes after all), is bittersweet. What would make it easier would be knowing I have somewhere to go after it all, being able to give it some value. Everything will work out, I'm sure, but sometimes the anxiety weighs heavy. I feel almost as if my life is on hold until that day comes...That day when I can say I have arrived, I have reached that goal that I set for myself years ago before all the lectures, seminars, exams, and professors. Hopefully that day comes sooner than later. I have a big meeting with the VP of a dream company in two weeks...wish me luck!C

"Crazy"

So, I think, by no choice of my own, I am part of a slightly crazy and somewhat absurd love triangle. It's by no means a strap on a diaper and drive non-stop to Florida crazy and absurd love triangle, but it's raising eyebrows nonetheless. (If you don't quite get my diaper wearing quip then you are obviously not well versed in the latest ongoing at the mad scientist powerhouse that is NASA).

Well, the guy I am sort of seeing has a growing list of off balance female suitors knocking on his door. Or, in keeping up with the times, shall we say they are texting him day and night. He has apparently told them he is not interested, but they persist, as any off balance suitor would. Last night one of them waited and watched in her car, Magnum P.I. style, my "guy" and I as we talked outside our cars after class. As soon as we got in our cars and drove off, she followed while texting my guy about his time with me in the parking lot. Shall we say....creepy? It gets better...
She pulled out in front of me, I saw her, guessed she was stalking us, and brushed it off as her being nuts. She pulled ahead of me into the right turn lane, I drove forward in the left through lane and sped up. She, this slightly psychotic and apparently quite nosey UNLICENSED driver, proceeded to drive straight through into my lane and run me off the road. Apparently, it being a religious holiday for me that day, God spared me my life and decided Amulya shall beat the odds of being killed by a dangerously jealous woman behind the wheel. Thank God for small favors. And breathe...

“New Year’s Day”

Today's brief Hinduism 101 lecture: Ugadi, or New Year's Day for those who follow the lunar calendar of Southern India. So first off, Happy New Year to me!

Ugadi is not only the start of the new year, it's the start of Spring, new life, and new beginning. It's literal translation is "beginning of new age". The onset of Spring brings a new beginning to plants as they acquire new life, shoots, and leaves. Thus, the start of the year or New Years Day. Flowers and fruits begin to bud signifying growth and prosperity. Entrances of houses are decorated with fresh mango leaves. Different foods are eaten to signify contrast the contrast of life, a mixture of good and bad, joy and sorrow, success and disappointment. The new year brings acceptance of the good and bad as being for one's own good. Ugadi, much like the Roman calendar's New Year's day, inspires resolve to change our way of life and give up bad qualities.

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“For Reasons Unknown”

So, I haven't been a regular fixture in the blogging world for the past few weeks. Lots of stuff going on…ya know classes, busy work, food, free liquor, TV, all the important things in life. I figured I should at least get a post up here and fill you all in on my life as of late.

First off, I think I've successfully avoided the flu bug. Good news there. Apart from a lingering fever and daily headaches I have come out unscathed. I think I am making myself sick over the fact that I am so close to graduating. On the one hand I am so very eager to be done with the stresses of being a student (forever I hope) but on the other hand I'm a bit frightened for what lies ahead. My one fear is that I will have to wake up the day after I graduate and realize I have no where to be, nothing to do. I'd like to have it all figured out right now, but I don't.

If you haven't read The Namesake, by Jhumpa Lahiri, read it. It's one of the best books I have ever read. And it's not only because many of the thoughts and premises of the book parallel my own life. Creatively written and rich in emotionally genuine detail, I think it's a book anyone could draw parallels from. Then, after you have read it, go see the movie. That is, if you are lucky enough to live near any of its limited releases. I am not so lucky, but I know it has to be great. The reviews are amazing and the director is even better. So, I can't wait to see this one. And if I haven't convinced you so far, just know that the lead is played by Kumar, of Harold and Kumar fame! J

And on a completely unrelated note, is it bad that I can drink 4 grown men under the table?! å

"Read My Mind"

Amulya has a fever :(
Mother nature is teasing Amulya with sun shiny 70 degrees and snow in the coming days' forecast :) --> :(
Amulya did not fail her Corporate Finance exam :) Amulya was quite worried about this ;)
Amulya is loving that she got to drive with the sun roof open for the first time in 6 months :)
Amulya is scared she might have caught the flu :(
Graduation is less than two months away and Amulya thrives on that fact ;)

"Ironic"

So, I was at the grocery store today - my home away from home. By the way, how cool is the international aisle at Meijer?? I'll answer for you: very. I digress.
I was at the grocery store today, stocking up on the essentials, when I found myself contemplating buying a new lottery ticket. From time to time I play a set of numbers I chose based upon family birthdays. Coincidentally, from time to time, those numbers lose. Today, I thought long and hard about playing those numbers again. I was all but standing right at the lotto counter when I told myself that dollar in my pocket could instead buy me a pretty amazing Jamocha shake sometime. So, I didn't get a ticket. I didn't play my numbers tonight. And for that reason, and that reason only, I didn't win $1,500 tonight. All but one of the birthday numbers matched up and I'm not throwing myself through a window right now only because that sixth number didn't match. But hey, at least I can have a Jamocha shake tomorrow...if not 1,500 of them :(

"Eyes Open"

I love to people watch. I think it's my favorite past time, after eating of course. And people watching while eating = good times. Just imagine the entertainment derived from figuring out the relationship between the odd couple sitting next to you. Imagine the possibilities!
One time, at a coffee shop, I had my eyes and ears on a couple in the corner. The guy was crying about how his wife at home doesn't talk to him anymore, while the woman was crying because this same guy was breaking up with her. Oh yeah, just imagine all the analyzing that was going on in my head. Then I love seeing dads out and about with their little kids. It's possibly the cutest thing in the world. And I just can't keep my eyes off it. There are all sorts of little and normally mundane things that I notice...who opens the door for whom, how close people sit and talk to one another, body language, facial expressions.
Of course, nowadays, its fairly easy to learn a lot about a person just by the way they talk on their cell phones in public. The reserved ones won't even answer when the phone rings, or will keep their end of the conversation quiet and brief. The obnoxious ones will let "Sexy Back" play the full loop before answering. The self-concerned ones will continue a cell phone conversation while at the cash register or customer service counter.
Ahh, I just love people watching. You know you love it too...just keep your eyes open.

"Giving Me A Bad Name"

Is it just me or does Kelly from The Office make you a bit uncomfortable? Don't get me wrong, it's hilarious how dumb she is, but man she is oddly obssessed with Ryan. Enough so that I'm embarrased for him. She is like a train wreck that I have to avert my eyes from everytime she pops up on screen.
Sadly, she sort of gives us Hindus a bad name. Case in point:

Kelly: Um, Diwali is awesome. And there's food, and there's gonna be dancing. And, oh, I got the raddest outfit. It has, um, sparkles
Michael: Kelly? Um, why don't you tell us a little bit about the origins of the holiday?
Kelly: Oh, um, I don't know. It's really old, I think.
Angela: How many gods do you have?
Kelly: Like hundreds, I think. Maybe more than that.

Yeah, it's like that.

"Small World"

What's the deal with local news stations? I'm sure whatever city you are in it's all the same. What's the deal with them turning the most mundane story into an earth shattering event? Or then they go and find the local connection to the story out of Topeka where the cat was rescued from a tree.
There was once a fire at a building in NYC. The local news here wasted no time. They rolled up their sleeves, went out and found some local guy whose wife's cousin's dentist's masseuse used to rent an apartment in the building next door. Or something like that. They asked questions like what's it like to have at one time rented an apartment in a building next to the building that is now on fire. Confused? I was. Enlightened? Hardly.
And there's nothing like watching the 11 o'clock news and seeing an exclusive interview with the local native who is now a Laker girl. That's hard hitting journalism right there.

"Educated Guess"

In honor of Oscar night - and because I am the biggest procrastinator in the world - I give you a movie quote quiz. These are some classics in my book. Can you match the movie with the quote? Give it a whirl...or just enjoy the list of a few of my favs

• Life is Beautiful
• Sound of Music
• Rainman
• Shawshank Redemption
• Schindler's List
• Office Space
• Forrest Gump
• Silence of the Lambs
• Field of Dreams
• Pretty Woman

1. "The Von Trapp children don't play. They march."
2. "This is the sacrifice my father made for me."
3. "Good evening, Clarice"
4. "Good evening Sir, my name is Steve. I come from a rough area. I used to be addicted to crack but now I am off it and trying to stay clean. That is why I am selling magazine subscriptions."
5. "Ten minutes to Wapner"
6. "Get busy living, or get busy dying."
7. "In case I forget to tell you later, I had a really good time tonight"
8. "If you build it, he will come"
9. "My mama always said life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get."
10. "The truth, Helen, is always the right answer"

"Heavy"

Yesterday was a grueling day. Enough so that I can feel it in every muscle in my body. I spent the entire day lifting and carrying hundreds of pounds of boxes and furniture up and down staircases. At one point I was even in on an unintended recreation of the "Pivot" scene from the fifth season of Friends. Gotta say, not so fun when not on the viewing end. I was helping a friend move into his new apartment and today my body hates me for it. I woke up today feeling like I had been trampled on by ten thousand NASCAR fans on their way to a free Budweiser tent. At the risk of smelling like a walking nursing home in human form, I might just have to layer myself with Tiger balm.
Not to say that yesterday wasn't time well spent. There is something about overexerting yourself for friends or family that is completely gratifying to oneself...at least the way I see it. When I'm doing things for myself, I complain to no end, but when it comes to helping others out I turn into a machine. What is up with that? Sometimes it drives me crazy, but its like I can't help myself.
Whatever it is I'm a little slow and 'a lot' sore today. It took my a very long time to lift a gallon of milk to make a bowl of cereal this morning. Not good, not good at all.

"You to Thank"

Thanks to everyone who wished me a happy birthday. I'm definitely well passed the age where I would lose sleep over the thought of what gifts would be showered upon me on my big day. From now on my birthday is all about realizing I'm a year older, a little greyer on top, possibly a little wiser, and expecting to hear from all the important people in my life. And when it happens, it's a good feeling...a great gift...even better than any amount of presents. So thanks, you're all the best. ♥ And of course since you can't all be the best just consider yourselves better than those that don't read this blog.☻

'Why Do I Keep Counting?"

Celebrating this Kodak moment...26 years ago today ☺

I think I was voted best looking newborn in the state of Missouri, 1981. Just kidding...

...it's a Polaroid.

"American Idiot"

Is there a reason that breaking news in this country, and sadly across the globe, features the likes of Britney Spears sans hair? What is up with that?!
I don't quite get how or why our societies are so caught up with celebrity breakups, hookups, rehab stints, pregnancies, custody battles... I mean seriously, it is necessary to precede news of higher gas prices with Anna Nicole's baby daddy?! Ok, gas prices rising isn't necessarily news but I really don't care if Britney Spears popped out a 9th child or if Tom Cruise jumped on a couch then drank the blood of ten goats.
Why is that news? Why do people care? Maybe we want to hear about celebrity lives because we can live vicariously glamorous lives. Or maybe we want to hear about celebrity stupidity so we can feel better about our own lives.
Whatever it is ...I don't really care. It doesn't matter to me how skinny or creepy looking the Olsen twins are or how many foxes Donald Trump skins for a new hair piece. I'll just be sitting here drinking my tea and blogging about more important things...

...starting....NOW ;)

"You Only Live Once"

...and then you come back again. At least according to Hinduism. Maybe we don't all share the belief of reincarnation, but at least we can all laugh about it...



He gets a bad rap, but I love that Appu. And apparently he doesn't think Jesus is so bad either ;)

"You can't kill a Hindu"....I love it!

"My Funny Valentine"

Happy Hallmark holiday everyone! ;)

On a more festive note, it's day two of a city-wide panic induced shutdown. So I'm just enjoying at home, watching all the snow blow around. Anything is fun when all the universities shut down for consecutive days!

"Holiday"

Well, according to the Telugu calendar (based upon phases of the moon and appearance of the stars -- and as opposed to the Roman calendar) today is my birthday. And since every school district in the tri-state area, along with some big businesses, are closed in anticipation of the snowstorm of the year I think I'll take the day off as well ;)

"If I Had A Million Dollars"

What if I won the lottery? What if I suddenly became privy to millions of dollars? What if I had the means to feed thousands, millions of starving children? What if I was able to fund research for the cure for cancer? What if I could wipe away the debts upon not only myself but my family and friends? What if I could pack up and settle somewhere warm in the winter and cool in the summer? What if I was able to provide for education for the world's children? What if I could afford sleek shiny wheels and Dom Perignon? What if I could spend my life working for society instead of working for "the man"?



...would I be happy?

Feel Good List vol. 2

So it's a fairly stressful time for me these days, but along the way there are always reasons to smile. Here are a few of those reasons...

1) Eating dinner with my mom last night for the first time in a very long while.
2) Cancelled class tonight
3) Cherry Coke Zero. If somehow Coke Zero could have been improved upon, Coca Cola found a way.
4) Bright sun and temperatures above 10 degrees. Seriously, this one is HUGE. It's like a heat wave!
5) LOST tonight and The Office and Grey's Anatomy tomorrow night.
6) Spreading the joy of Chipotle to international students at the university.
7) New Hindi movies arriving in my mailbox today.
8) Srikar (there's your shout out bro!)
9) Finding a new 'diamond in the rough' Lebanese restaurant in Toledo.
10) Being invited to a book club...and being recommended great new books.

"54321 [Count Down]"

3 lonnnng months....and LOST is back. This makes Amulya very happy...for at least one hour on Wednesday night ;)

P.S. I want Spring. Badly.

"You Know My Name"

Amelia - Amolea - Ahmullaya - Ammonia - Bob

I've been called all of those things. And not necessarily because the person attempting to pronounce my name thought it was funny...just because they didn't care enough to really try. I used to think it was no big deal when people would fumble over my name. Infact, I still don't really care so much, but it does get a bit annoying at times.

At least I no longer have to sit through roll call on the first day of class when the instructor pauses, crinkles his forehead, and stares straight down at the class list in sheer fright when he sees my name. More often than not I could place myself alphabetically in the list so I would know when to scream out loud "here" before he/she started to sweat.

There are some people who actually take the time out to learn the pronounciation. Then there are others who just decide to call it a day and slap a sticker reading "Hello My Name is Bob" on my shirt. I have to say I like the former. While I wasn't the one who chose my name, I have to say I've grown quite fond of it. Just as how most everyone else has taken a liking to their own name. So, I think it of it as not so much to ask for anyone meeting me to at least try to greet me properly.

Of course there are nicknames and pet names I have acquired over the course of my life from friends and family. Am, Amu, Ammers, Amulu...to name a few of my more endearing names. Those are all well and good. At least I know they have all tried and could very well say my name regardless...and well hearing my pet names is somehow even better than hearing my real name. Hearing it gives the relationship some history and depth. It's the people who don't take the minute to try that bothers me.

So I don't quite remember what my point was in writing this post. I think it might have been simply that your name is something that you carry with you for your entire life. Everyone has one, and everyone deserves to be known by it. And no it's not cool if you call me Bob.

"Call and Answer"

Whatever happened to customer service in this country? Almost every company will say they have "great customer service" but that's such an oxymoron these days. It's rare to talk to two people from the same company who will give you the same answer or solution to your problem. And the notion of "the customer is always right" is buried well beyond six feet under ground. I can't even remember how many times in the past year I have called a customer service line to report a problem or get support only to be thoroughly frustrated by their total lack of knowledge, understanding, and helpfulness. In the end I always hang up and fix the problem myself. So I guess that either means they are worthless or I am smart. Hopefully both.

"Take It Easy"

Ahhh, Thursdays...

Thursday is totally the new Friday. Remember how excited we used to be for TGIF every Friday night? Well maybe not all of us were so excited by that, but I think I was. Even I can't really recall. I do know, however, that Friday used to mean no getting on the bus tomorrow morning and Uncle Jesse is on tv tonight.

Nowadays, Thursdays mean the weekend is so close I can taste it and Michael Scott and George O'Malley are on tv tonight. It's that 1.5 hours of solid tv watching that I actually look forward to every week. And it's so relaxing just because I know that any new tasks that get put on my desk the next day can be put off until Monday. That never really happens but at least I don't feel guilty about it.

So bring on the Scranton branch and Seattle Grace 'cause I'm ready for the weekend.

"Yesterday"

Things that I miss:

• Eating mangos from India (because they are SO much better than these Mexican ones)
• Having a cell phone signal in my house
• McDonald's birthday parties
• Having 'deep thoughts' with my friend and college roommate Sarah...then pulling pranks with her (most often on Jana)
• Wearing flip flops outside
• Old fashioned letters (stamped envelopes and everything)
• Family dinners
• Having the time to read good books
• After school snacks and Degrassi Junior High (the old school version)
• My self-proclaimed Delhi house...and the people who lived in it
• 99 cents/gallon gasoline
• Watching original airings of the Golden Girls with my mom
• Team bus rides to games/meets
• Having a head without recurring gray hairs (yeah, seriously)
• Not having to think about what I eat (not that I really care so much now anyways)
• Back to school shopping sprees

"Snow (Hey Oh)" part two

This is the view from my room this morning. And there is more to come. All this and no snow day...which doesn't surprise me. Since the road crews around here are pretty worthless I'm not looking forward to cruising to school at 35mph tonight. My boss gave me about 10 days worth of work to finish in 3, but I'm feeling very demotivated by looking outside right now. Perhaps I should shut all the blinds, eat pineapple, and have beach movies playing in the background all day. Any suggestions?

"Snow (Hey Oh)"

I used to love winter. Up until maybe last year I would get so excited just to see snowflakes lightly fall from the sky. Now...I kinda hate it. Maybe it's just too cold outside for me to think straight but I really feel like I have lost my love for winter. It doesn't help when a mere 1 inch of snow overwhelms county road crews and practically debilitates a city.
At the risk of making it seem as if I have come down with a form of SAD (seasonal affective disorder), I'll just say that I no longer like winter and I am eagerly awaiting above freezing temps.

See right about now a power cut in the middle of a Delhi summer sounds pretty damn good.

"With a Little Help From My Friends"

So lately, if you haven't noticed, I've been labeling my posts with song titles (or album titles). Call it my ode to Grey's or just blame it on my ever-growing music/lyrics fetish. So far I haven't had a problem recalling a song to compliment my post, but I suspect I might draw a blank the day I write about marsupials in Africa. For fear of not being able to think of a title perhaps I just won't write about that.

However, this post posed no problem in thinking of a title. It's my tribute to my multi-talented cousin. He's more than just family, he's one of my best friends. And I gotta say he's not so bad with the flash animations either. Props to him for the header and flash animations on this page.
He's my go-to-guy whenever I have a tech question...or when I need a much sought after album ;)...or just when I feel like laughing. Much thanks to him for helping me pimp this blog space. Thanks, bro...what would I do without you.

"Waiting on the World to Change"

This song by John Mayer is so great. It was not until recently that I realized this guy has amazing lyrics. And this song is just one example.

Me and all my friends
We're all misunderstood
They say we stand for nothing and
There's no way we ever could
Now we see everything is going wrong
With the world and those who lead it
We just feel like we don't have the means
To rise above and beat it

So we keep waiting (waiting)
Waiting on the world to change
We keep on waiting (waiting)
Waiting on the world to change
It’s hard to beat the system
When we're standing at a distance
So we keep waiting (waiting)
Waiting on the world to change

Now if we had the power
To bring our neighbors home from war
They would have never missed a Christmas
No more ribbons on their door
When you trust your television
What you get is what you got
‘Cuz’ when they own the information ooohhh,
They can bend it all they want

It's not that we don't care
We just know that the fight ain't fair
So we keep waiting (waiting)
Waiting on the world to change

One day our generation
Is gonna rule the population
So we keep on waiting (waiting)
Waiting on the world to change

Do you ever feel like the world's leaders are just taking us backwards? There is all this talk about the main goal of wars and conflicts being to make the world a better place for our children. Is it? ...Or is this post just way beyond casual conversation? I think the latter.

"The Great Burrito Extortion Case"

It's FREE BURRITO DAY!!

"Good Times, Bad Times"

This past Sunday I took my mom to a one-time showing of the Hindi film "Guru" in Toledo. Screenings of Hindi films in the United States are hard to come by so I jumped at the chance to catch this one.
The movie is a "fictional" account of a young man from a village in India who sets off to work and prosper in Turkey. Slowly but surely he progresses from selling petrol cans from the back of a truck to being offered a supervisor position at a petrochemical plant. Rather than taking the job he tells his brother, "I'm good enough that they like my work...so why should I keep working for the 'white' man." So he packs up and heads back to India to build his own textile empire, from the ground up.
The path he takes from that point on is not always tried and true, but it evetually gets him to where he wants to be. Along the way feelings are hurt, lives are seemingly shattered, and hearts are broken. Yet, at the same time, love is had, friendships are strengthened, and futures are sealed. The film depicts many of the good times, and also many of the bad. The dynamic lies in realizing who and what is real in the both the good times and the bad.

It's so easy for friends, family, and even acquaintances to be there for us in the good times. Who wouldn't want to be? When the sun is shining, the wine is flowing, and business is good, its easy to find someone to share it with. The true test is to see who comes knocking on the door when the skies are cloudy and business is bad. The true 'friend' wants even more to be there in the bad times than in the good.

"Let the Music Play"

Here are my thoughts on music:

I love it. I love it all. Well not so much the rap and the country and the heavy metal, but just about everything else I can manage to get into.

The great thing about the music I like is that it's so diverse. I have two mp3 players and on both of them I can find a song to perfectly compliment any mood or character.
If I'm feeling sad I might cue up "Hallelujah" by Jeff Buckley or "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton.
If I'm working out it might just be something from Linkin Park's Reanimation album.
When I'm driving I'll listen to anything from "Stolen Away on 55th & 3rd" by DMB to "You Know My Name" by Chris Cornell to maybe even a little "66" by Afghan Whigs. ;)

Whatever I'm doing, wherever I am, life seems so much better with that perfect song accompanying me along.

Then there is the art of making the perfect mix. Making a great mix or playlist, a compilation of songs that can hit every nerve yet completely encompass your current state of mind, is not an easy task. Yeah, its easy to drag a bunch of songs onto a window and click the burn tab, but selection is key. That playlist is no good unless each and every song is out loud singable word for word. Each of those songs has to...evoke a feeling, a memory...inspire you, exhilirate you...or just artfully assuage you.

For me, the best songs are the ones that distinctly remind me of people in my life and the specific times in our lives that we shared listening to those songs. Who says the term "our song" is reserved for only romantic couples? When a song creates a memory between you and me, it's "our song." And when a song becomes a memory, it's music to my ears.

So, the next time you find yourself making a new playlist in iTunes or a new mix for the car, take a few minutes to find those songs that incite vivid emotion in you. Choose the ones that remind you of good times, or maybe even some bad times. Conjure up those memories of where you've been and who you have been there with...and use them to propel you to wherever you are headed.

Feel Good List vol.1

Today's Piscean horoscope tells me to try something new. So I'm catching on to a spark of ambition and bringing you the first installment of Amulya's Feel Good List. I say I'm being ambitious just because who knows if I'll remember to write even vol.2!

Nevertheless, here begins a periodic list of some of the things that are making me feel good, happy, or just plain content right about now.

Amulya's Feel Good List - Volume 1:

1) The space heater in my room. I tend to stick my feet right under it and there might not be a better comfort feeling than that.
2) My iPod playlist entitled "doppleganger". It's cued up with an eclectic mix of tunes that takes me through lots of thoughts, feelings, and memories (which is a blog post for another day).
3) Coke Zero. Quite possibly the greatest beverage invention since...well...water.
4) Free Grey's Anatomy on ABC.com. Seriously...I love that I can watch Grey's any day, any time.
5) The fact that in the past 5 days I have had such great conversations with so many friends and family. Whether its on the phone, online, or in person, it always ends with me having a smile on my face.
6) Chipotle. Needs no explanation. Expect this to be in every volume.
7) Little Miss Sunshine. It's dark, but so funny. It's crude, but so touching. Great film.
8) Filling out my application for graduation. And deciding not to walk at graduation.
9) Running on the new treadmill my sister and Ludger bought for us. I give it my best Prefontaine.
10) Getting comments on my blog posts. ;)

Happy Harvest

I find it only fitting on this blog so often visited by those of varying faiths to enlighten you all about the holiday or festival of sorts being celebrated in my family and in my house this weekend.

I am not an expert by any means on the meanings or customs associated with this holiday, but here is just a short recap of how I recall my uncle explaining it to me:

Every January 14th marks the start of the three day Hindu festival known as Makara Sankranthi in parts of South India. "Kranthi" stands for 'change' and "Sankrathi" thus takes the meaning 'secured change' or 'change for good'. It signifies the day that brings us from darkness to light as the sun begins on its northward journey signaling the approaching summer. On this day, the sun enters into Makara (Capricorn).

Along with the mark of the sun, Sankrathi, in Southern India, represents the reaping of the harvest for farmers and sets off the biggest harvest festival in India, spread over three days of celebration. The advent of the holiday is associated with the removal of any rubbish or unused materials in life, symbolizing the destruction of evil.

Sankrathi, taking on many meanings, also reminds us to continue on our journey of intellectual illumination. We must have the ability to discriminate between right and wrong, just and unjust, virtue and vice. Light, on this holiday, symbolizes virtues of the heart - love, affection, and warmth.

So this is my attempt to give a little back to my favorite Jesus fans out there... Just to give you a little glimpse into one small part of my faith.

need for speed

Nowadays I have no patience for slow drivers. I take that back. I have no patience for all drivers. Every night after class I find myself weaving in and out of whatever line of cars is in front of me, no matter how big or small the passing space may be. I'm riding bumpers like I am training to be Jana. The needle rarely drops below 50 on city roads. I feel as if the guy in front of me will get out of his car at a stop light and serve me a summons to People's Court.

I don't know what it is that has gotten into me lately. I just have this need for speed on the roads. Any car in front of me better be ready for some intense a**-riding. I've always been a speeder, but now it's just ridiculous!

the gadget era - a rebuttal

I object to my own opening statements...

I WANT IT!

the gadget era

Soon to be released Apple iPhone...

Now is this really necessary??

When will it end Apple? When will it end?!?

best part of the day

What is the best part of your day?

Lately I have seen all hours of the day. In the past 5 days I have been awake to face the world at least once for every hour of the day and night. And in the past 5 days I've been trying to determine what is the best part of the day for me.
Different times of day (or night) bring up different feelings in me. Of course there is nothing fun about being awake at 4am in total silence and solitude. That time of the day is almost depressing for the sole reason that there is no one to whom I could turn. With the rise of the sun, around 8am, comes an almost rejuvenated spirit in the prospects of the day. There is a full agenda and much to be done. Whether or not it all gets done is another matter, but I am mentally equipped to do it all. Yet, I think it is not until after sunset, those first few hours of the night that bring out the best in me. Primetime is in fact my prime time. It is one of the only times of the day where I am so awake and so ready to take on what lies before me. It is the time when I can say I have accomplished all that I had intended to today and now is my time to enjoy. It is that time when I get to interact with the people in my daily life that matter. I'll get a phone call from family or friends. I will go to the den and joke with my mom. I will go to dinner or just hang out with my closest friends. Each of these things gives me the feeling that I'm not alone in the world...and I can tackle anything. So for that reason, it is the best part of my day.

For most of us, our days are so routine and possibly even quite monotonous. What part of your day brings out the best in you? What part of your day makes you the happiest?

cha cha cha changes

I'm slowly getting back to reality. My last semester of education ever started yesterday and my new internship kicks off today. I'm still not totally adjusted to EST but I'm improving in that department day by day (well kind of). At least this morning I only got up at 4:45am...that's progress folks!
So I only have two courses to finish up this semester. I thought it would be a cake walk, but after sitting through the first one I'm a little doubtful. This guy is a little intimidating. Funny, but a little intimidating. Or maybe I'm just still not mentally prepared for returning to all the stresses of school.
While at Miami I used to have the most difficult time dealing with the change of coming back to school after a break. After three weeks of winter vacation I suddenly found myself thrown back into the swing of campus life, textbooks, and lectures. I was around new people for the first time in three weeks and even though I loved them and thought they were great I just could not deal with being back at school. It always took at least a week for me to get the feel back and live in the moment.
All in all I guess I don't deal well with change. I welcome change if it's ultimately for the better, but that doesn't mean its easy for me to deal with. Wherever I am, whatever I am doing, I try to make the most of it. So I tend to make myself as comfortable as I can be in the situation and environment I am in. Pulling me out of that situation then throws me for a loop, and it takes a little time for me to find my comfort again.
Life is constant change though, right? We will be forced into new environments, new situations for the rest of our lives, whether it be temporary or permanent. I wonder if the ability to deal with change ever gets stronger, or if it is a personality trait that sticks with you all your life. I personally hope my ability gets stronger so that I can easily find my comfort and start to live my life to the fullest faster.

addictions

My life is full of addictions. Addictions to nothing that threatens my life or threatens the life of others, but addictions nonetheless. When I find something or someone new that just makes me happy or gives me even a little enjoyment I get hooked. Some foods get me physically addicted, while there are people and things that simply have me hooked emotionally.

A recent addition to my list...Chipotle. Though I'm sure most of you would agree with me on this one also. All in all, I am just addicted to good food, whether that be Chipotle or home cooking.

India: In the end it is my motherland. Had you asked me even 5 years ago if I would ever be as hooked on it as I am now I would have said no and written you off as crazy. Yet, here we are in 2007 and I have just wrapped up my 7th trip there in 3.5 years. I may never settle there, in fact I don't plan on it, but I would have serious withdrawal without visiting often. It's vastly different from anywhere I was raised, yet I don't imagine ever losing this feeling I have for India.

Blogspot: jana, and Annie, and Liz made me do it. Thanks for supporting this addiction ;) It's soothing when I need to vent, and its just fun when I want to kid.

My favorite person...my cousin Srikar: I didn't really get to know this guy until a few years ago, but I'm so glad I did. He's got a great head on his shoulders and I know he's going places. I may not talk to him everyday and sometimes that's tough. Yet, when we do talk I am simply so happy and can't help but smile.

My family: my mom and all her siblings and their families are a dynamic group of individuals. Life is not always roses with this family but the good far outweighs the bad. Through it all I am obssessed with every facet of their lives and I would not give them up for anything in the world. Much like I am with my cousin, when I get up in the morning and all throughout the day I will automatically calculate the time difference in my head and wonder what they are doing at that moment. My daily thoughts are caught up in them, no matter where I am and what I may be doing. That's an addiction.

The Internet: I really don't know how I ever lived without it. It all started with AOL back in 7th grade and look where I've come. I'm blogging about it. I now check my email maybe 20 times a day. I am such a slave to cyberspace.

Photos: If you've been in my room (or an my blog) you know about this one. There is hardly wall space remaining and absolutely no table space left without frames on it. There are photos of family and friends in my car, all over the house, on my iPod, on every computer in the house, and on every possible photo hosting site I am registered with. Photos capture memories for me and I love having visible memories all around me.

As long as I'm alive and for as long as I have a heart I'll be forming new addictions...to people and places and things. Most of them will come and go, but only a few will remain engraved in me. These are the addictions that I don't mind having, that the world doesn't mind me having. I'm in a way grateful to all of these things, because in some way or another they shape me and make me what I am. These addictions are at the foundation of what drives me. So isn't that what an addiction does? What are your addictions?

wasting time and finding meaning

The past few days I have felt like I am just going through the motions. I won't say I'm in a funk or depression of any sort, I have just been in a daze. I haven't really done much. Today the most exciting and energy exerting thing I did was go to Meijer to buy vegetables. My sleeping patterns are totally off and when I am not sleeping I am in such a daze that I don't even feel like talking. Words just come out jumbled. Today I said something to the cashier that sort of resembled early Aramaic. I think she might have thought I was high.
And I feel like all I have been doing is complaining. Well I know all I have been doing is complaining...on this blog at least for the past few days. So my apologies for that. However, for some reason its a little therapeutic. Especially when there is no one else to communicate with at 3am.
Lately, I have been making myself a little sick over what I am doing, where I am going. Coming home has forced me to get reacquainted with the trials and tribulations of life. Being away on vacation and in India put a complete stop to any worry in my life. Somewhere in my mind I thought, before leaving on my trip, that once I returned everything would be better. All the problems, all the worry would have somehow been washed away. Of course, they are still here. And coupled with a healthy dose of jetlag its put me in quite a daze. I don't know what to try and wrap my head around first.
I am starting this new internship on Monday, along with starting my final semester of MBA. It's that weird time when I am so eager to be done with my education but I am so nervous about securing that great job after it ends. This internship is not paid, but it presents me with unmatched experience in a field I could really excel in. But me having an unpaid internship makes me feel a little useless at this point in time.
Then some astrologer guy told my family in India that the stars say my time to marry is within the next 2-3 years. After that window, it may be very difficult for me to settle down. Hah, well thats great news. Tack on another to the list of worries. ;) Not that it is a worry, but it is just one more thing in troubling times. The last thing on my mind right now is getting married.
All I can think about is getting some security for myself and my family. I just hope that I can land some incredible job for after graduation. The anticipation kills me, and until it happens I know it will be a continuing struggle of sorts. For me, the hardest thing in life is dealing with the unknown. I am fine with whatever comes my way...I will find a way to handle it and deal with it. The problem is that I have trouble dealing with the anticipation. I want to know that everything is going to be ok or that there will some bump in the road in the future.
So for me, in the past few days, I have mostly been lying around turning my stomach over the anticipation, the unknown. I want so badly for everything to be ok and to be ok fast. I want to know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I have this undying wish for my entire family to be together, spend their lives all together. Enjoy the ups and see each other through the downs. It's a big wish. I don't know if its totally unrealistic, but I know its a big wish. And I know the road to it is very long.

up all night

I'M HAVING TROUBLE SLEEPING... and that is an understatement. I woke up at 2:30am, but I guess in all fairness I have to admit that I went to sleep at 4pm. Woke up in between at 9pm, thought heavily about going downstairs to eat something, but decided bed sounded like a better deal.
It's so strange being wide awake when the world around you is sleeping. First of all, there is absolutely nothing in TV. Second of all, there is next to no one online. At least no sane person in my time zone. So the next best thing to wile away the time - until the world wakes up - is to blog. So here I am.
I'm feeling a little bad because I really wanted to see my friends tonight but I just couldn't stay awake past 4pm. It would be really nice to see them and just hang out, get my mind back into "home" mode and get caught up on their lives from the past 3 weeks. But hopefully there will be time for that this weekend.
I have been living my life for the past 36 hours mainly out of my bed. Either sleeping or wasting time on the laptop. There is even a load of laundry that has been sitting in the washing machine for the past 16 hours. How lazy am I.
So back to this being awake when the world around me isn't thing... It really feels quite strange. I look out the window and I can hardly see a thing, only distant outdoor houselights. Its pin drop silence and one would think the world is so quiet, so safe. We could only wish. In just a few hours life outside will be bustling again. Engines will start, phones will ring, TVs and stereos will blare. You see, it is one of the biggest differences between India and here. Well in particular India and Ohio... Here it is silent at night, not a thing can be heard apart from the occassional faint horn of a train or the heat switching on or off. In India it is a completely different story. At all hours sirens blare, motorcycle engines rev, drunk men scream and shout, and of course during the Christmas holidays carolers get into prime time around 3am. There is never a dull moment.

burritos in space

I am afraid a new obssession has been created in one single act of impulsion. There is a burrito in my stomach, and I do not believe for one second that it will be the last one today. I think I may have unleased a beast within myself. God help me. For I can't resist something so bad, yet so so good.

here we go again...

I am home. I mean I am back from my home away from home.
One might think I am some sort of emotional masochist in the way I go and come from India so often. I leave fully well knowing that once I get back I'll be jetlagged, depressed, possibly sick, and yearning to go back. It happens each and every time, without fail. This time is no exception. I'm back to my living in the past phase...and I can't tell what the future will bring.

Coming home after being in India feels so strange. It is so hard to describe and I'm not sure I can do my feelings just by describing them here. But for some reason, writing always help to "heal" so I'll do my best here.
First of all, goodbyes are never easy, but they are especially difficult for me when it comes to leaving my family. I spent my entire last day sulking, feeling emotionally and physically sick to get on a plane home. The problem is not so much the leaving part, it is the "when will I see them again" part. When the time comes to say goodbye its like its unreal and I'm wishing the hugs will last just a few seconds longer...just a few minutes or hours longer. I'm wishing in the back of my mind that the pilots will strike and I'm forced to postpone my return for 2 days. I'm wishing I could get just a little more time to be with my fav person...
I get to Frankfurt, my transit airport, and I get the sudden feeling of loneliness. The airport is chaotic, people all around, the sounds of different languages are streaming from each direction. And I am on my own, stuck somewhere in between two homes. The travel is grueling and lacks any sort of enjoyment but I would gladly turn around and go back if I could. But then I know that the day would eventually come for me to say goodbye once again...and the circle would just continue.
Each time I come back I know that my ill feelings won't last forever. A day will come when it won't be so hard. Until that time I have to immerse myself as best I can in my life back home. Get myself caught up on all the things I have missed out on while I was gone. The trouble is that while I am with my family, I am not "missing out" on anything else anywhere.
What I need is some sort on intravenous dose of home. I need something to get my mind off of the fact that I am missing my family and their lives in India. I need to prevent myself from getting deeper into this funk. I want to be able to enjoy all the things I enjoy about home and my friends and family here. But that will take time. And it most probably won't come when my body and mind are still stuck on Indian Standard Time. Right now, my stomach turns and my heart aches a little bit. It may take a few weeks to get over, but whenever that is I welcome it.
Perhaps, the feeling won't end until I determine..."when will I see them again"?

my past, present, and future

Do you live in the past, present, or for the future?
I feel like I do it all. There are times when I am wishing my life away, waiting for some future event. The time comes and I sit and soak up every square inch of the present. Afterwards I will feel myself reaching back for the past, doing anything it takes to get back those feelings.
It happens all the time with me. I am constantly living day by day for one thing. In most cases that thing is coming here to my family. For the past three or four years it has been the one thing that motivates me, that serves as my "light at the end of the tunnel" each day as I go through life. All the stress, all the work, all the pleasure, and all the pain are justified when I look at the calendar and see my future travel date. Until the I get some kind of booking to come back here I feel lost for motive and a little empty. It may sound strange but it's just the way it is with me. I don't know why. I don't know what it is that makes it so hard for me to adjust to being back home after being here in India. I'm leaving for home in less than 24 hours and it's already starting make my stomach roll. While I am here, no matter how long or short the duration, I feel so at home. It's as if I have been here all my life. I can't describe the loneliness felt as I sit down on the plane to fly home. Each time I get home and its like home is foreign to me. I'm no longer brushing my teeth with bottled water, I'm eating comparably bland food, and even tv programming seems awful. Throw in a massive dose of jet lag and I'm looking at at least 2 weeks of adjustment time. To be honest, it takes making a plan for my next trip to get me going. Until that time I am just going through the motions, reaching back for the past in any way I can.

So, today I have to live to the utmost in the present. Tomorrow I'll live a little in the past.

helllllooooo 2007

FROHES NEUEU JAHR 2007!! I hope that means happy new year and not "your mother is fat".

I just had two of the best nights with my family ever. Sadly the focus was on alcohol, but it was great nonetheless. As we all know, alcohol brings out the truth...and these past two nights have been no exception. We spent New Years eve at my uncles place eating, drinking, and being merry. Last night we had dinner at my aunt's place doing the same. My family is a little nuts. Nuts much in the same way that most families are...but mostly for the fact that there are so many of us and each of us is so distinct. There is never a dull moment, but I wouldn't have it any other way. There is just something about laughing with my family that I would never give up for anything in the world.