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Janam Din

I complete 2 scores today :) It was wonderful to receive so many wishes, and, also wish the other three 'same b'day' people I know.

My day began with a phone call from my 4 year old nephew, Milind, and I couldn't have asked for a more entertaining start....

Milind (very chirpy & cheerful) : Happy, b'day, Soumya doddamma!

Me (equally chirpy & cheerful) : Thank you, Milind.

Milind (very musically) : What sweet?

Me (equally musically) : No sweet.

Milind (very musically) : What cake?

Me (equally musically) : No cake.

A very panicky & alarmed Milind to those around him : She's saying 'No sweet, no cake', She's saying 'No sweet, no cake',....(about 4-5 times)

At this point, his big sister pulled the phone from him and asked me: Not even Jamoon?

Me (trying not to laugh): No

Niece (without much cheer): Okay..happy b'day...Milind wants to talk to you.

Milind (hopefully): Do you have chips?

Me: Yes.

Milind (relieved): What chips?

Me: Banana chips.

Milind (very relieved): Hahn! Have a nice day!

Maybe, he liked the thought of me eating chips thro' the day :D :D

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It's also 'Republic Day'. Kids & teachers of all the local schools, officials, interested public,.. gather at a common venue for the celebrations. The kids of about 4-5 schools have to pass in front of home to reach the main parade ground. I like to see the marchers, slogan-shouters, school bands,.... In fact, their enthusiasm inspite of the morning chill, is quite contagious! I always rush out to see them, and, I even know the regular slogans...

'India... Zindabad' , 'Bharat Maata ki...Jai', 'Twinkle, twinkle, little star.... India is my sooper star', 'Ene barali (come what may) ...... oggattirali (let's stay united)', 'Shaanti (peace) .... Shistu (discipline)'.

While all the above are quite sober, this one never fails to tickle me.. three times an year... 'Namma, nimma taatha (grandpa to you & me).... Gaandhee taatha (Grandpa Gandhi) :D ... Looking forward to I-day, now!

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Well...the day didn't progress as cheerfully...

We had innumerable power cuts - prompting me to work (yes!!) for some time.

A speeding bus killed a young cow right in front of the gate :(

To cap it all, the plumber who was supposed to come 2 days ago, called up to say that he would come in the evening. He didn't specify the time and, I spent my evening waiting for him...

Well! I decided to write this while waiting for the plumber.

And, oh! I also ate chips while writing :D
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