7 Reasons to Follow Me… or Unfollow Me

Social media is a funny little world. We follow people because something about them catches our attention, makes us smile, inspires us, or simply makes us feel like we are sitting across the table having a conversation.

But sometimes, we also unfollow. And honestly, that’s okay too.

So, if you have ever wondered what you will find if you follow me, here are seven reasons. And if none of these speak to you, well, you have seven perfectly good reasons to unfollow me too!

1. Authenticity

I am not here to pretend that life is perfect.

There are beautiful pictures, happy moments and carefully planned content, but there is also messy hair, unfinished chores, parenting chaos and days when absolutely nothing goes according to plan.

I believe authenticity is about showing up as yourself, even when everything isn't Instagram-perfect. I would rather share something real and imperfect than create a picture-perfect version of a life that doesn't exist.

2. Creativity

I love looking at ordinary things differently.

A simple family moment can become a story. A corner of the house can become a beautiful frame. A product can become part of a fun reel. Creativity, for me, isn't about having expensive equipment or elaborate setups. It is about finding interesting possibilities in everyday life.

If you enjoy content that tries to think a little differently, you might enjoy being here.

3. Aesthetics

I have always been drawn to beautiful things.

Pretty spaces, thoughtful details, good photography, colours that work together and those tiny moments that deserve to be captured. I don't think aesthetics have to mean luxury. Sometimes, the most beautiful things are incredibly simple.

A neatly arranged breakfast. Sunlight falling across a room. A child laughing without knowing the camera is there.

Beauty really is everywhere when we slow down enough to notice it.

4. Sustainability

This is something I genuinely care about.

I try to be more conscious about what I buy, reuse what I can and think twice before throwing something away. I am far from perfect, but I believe sustainable living isn't about making every choice perfectly. It is about making better choices whenever we can.

Small changes count. And when enough of us make them, they can become meaningful.

5. Joy in the Mundane

I have a soft spot for ordinary days.

Morning coffee. A walk with my family. Cooking something simple. Watching my child play. Finding a beautiful sunset on an otherwise completely normal day.

Life isn't made only of vacations, celebrations and milestones. Most of it happens in between those moments. And I think those everyday moments deserve a little more appreciation.

6. Upcycled Fashion

Fashion doesn't always have to mean something new.

I love giving old pieces another chance, styling something differently and finding creative ways to make an outfit feel fresh. Sometimes, the best outfit is already hanging in your wardrobe.

There is something incredibly satisfying about wearing something you already own and making it feel completely new again.

7. Travel on a Budget

And then there is travel!

I love exploring new places, but I don't believe you need an unlimited budget to see the world. Sometimes, the best experiences come from planning smart, finding hidden gems and being willing to step slightly away from the obvious tourist trail.

For me, travel is about experiences, people, food, stories and memories, not just expensive hotels and fancy itineraries.

So, if these seven things sound like your kind of content, welcome!

And if they don't? That's perfectly okay too.

Social media should be a space where we choose what adds something to our lives. Follow for the things that inspire you. Unfollow when something no longer does.

No hard feelings.

I'll simply keep showing up here as myself, finding beauty in the everyday, creating, travelling, rewearing, rethinking and enjoying this wonderfully imperfect life.

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon

Motherhood has a funny way of changing your priorities.

Before having kids, I thought I was a fairly particular person. I liked things organised, I preferred home-cooked food, and I cared about keeping my surroundings clean. But after becoming a mother, these things started feeling less like preferences and more like little responsibilities I carry every day.

Being a doctor adds another layer to it. I have seen enough to know that many everyday habits can have a significant impact on our health. At the same time, being a mom has taught me that you cannot sterilise your children's entire world or control everything they touch, eat or experience. And honestly, you shouldn't.

So, I try to focus on three things that matter to me the most: cleanliness, sustainability and nutritious food for my kids.

1. Cleanliness

I am particular about cleanliness at home. Very particular, actually.

With children around, there are always sticky fingers, muddy shoes, toys on the floor and mysterious crumbs hiding in places I didn't even know existed. But beyond keeping the house looking clean, I am conscious about hygiene because of what I have seen professionally.

Children touch everything. Door handles, floors, playground equipment, shopping carts, pets, their shoes and then, inevitably, their faces and food. Germs are simply a part of everyday life.

So I am quite finicky about sanitizing everything on a regular basis, things which can't be washed. Like gadgets, upholstery, closets and cabinets etc. We don't wear outside clothes inside the house and if any guest sits on the bed, I wash the sheets before lying on it. Similarly, we wash every exposed body part after coming back from outside and of course shoes are an absolute NO inside the house.

I want my kids to understand simple habits like washing their hands before eating, after using the washroom and after coming home from outside. I make sure fruits and vegetables are washed properly, kitchen surfaces are cleaned regularly, and their water bottles, lunch boxes and frequently used items don't get neglected.

At the same time, I let them play outdoors, get their hands dirty, explore and be kids.

Because the goal isn't to protect them from every single germ. It is to teach them healthy habits that will stay with them as they grow.

2. Sustainability because their future matters too

The second thing I am particular about is sustainability.

Having children has made me think about the world in a completely different way.

When I look at my kids, I don't just think about the kind of childhood I want them to have today. I think about the kind of world they will grow up in.

That makes me more conscious about the little choices we make at home.

We try to avoid unnecessary plastic whenever possible. I prefer reusable water bottles and bags, and I try not to buy things simply because they are convenient for a few minutes but create waste that stays around for years.

I also try to teach my children not to waste food, water or electricity.

Sometimes these lessons are incredibly simple.

Turn off the tap while brushing.

Switch off the lights when you leave a room.

Take only as much food as you can finish.

Use both sides of a sheet of paper.

Carry a reusable bottle.

None of these things is going to save the planet overnight. But I believe children learn more from what they see us doing than from what we tell them.

If sustainability becomes a normal part of everyday life rather than a big, complicated concept, hopefully they will carry those habits into adulthood.

3. Healthy food because nutrition is not optional

And then comes the one I am probably most particular about: what my kids eat.

As a doctor, I know how important nutrition is during childhood. As a mother, I also know how incredibly difficult it can be to convince a child that vegetables are more exciting than a packet of chips!

I don't believe in making food stressful. I don't want every meal to become a negotiation, and I certainly don't want my children to grow up believing that some foods are "bad" and others are "good."

Instead, I try to focus on balance.

Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, nuts and seeds, dairy or suitable alternatives, and good sources of protein form an important part of what we eat at home. I try to make sure their meals are colourful, varied and as close to wholesome, minimally processed food as possible.

And yes, they have treats too.

Because childhood should include birthday cake, ice cream, the occasional pizza and those completely unnecessary snacks that somehow taste better when eaten at a friend's house!

For me, healthy eating isn't about perfection. It is about building a foundation.

I want my children to understand what hunger feels like, enjoy different foods, try new flavours and develop a natural appreciation for nutritious meals.

I also try not to force them to finish everything on their plate. Learning to listen to their own hunger and fullness cues is just as important as knowing that vegetables are good for them. Of course, I gobble up all their leftovers.

Raising healthy children is about the everyday things

When I think about these three things, I realise they are all connected.

Cleanliness is about taking care of their health today. Sustainability is about taking care of their tomorrow. And nutritious food is about giving their growing bodies the fuel they need.

None of this means I am a perfect mother. Far from it.

There are days when the house is a mess, vegetables come back untouched in the lunch box, someone forgets to switch off the bathroom light, and the kids come home with soiled uniforms.

And that's okay.

Motherhood isn't about getting everything right every single day. It is about consistently trying to make thoughtful choices.

As a medico, I understand the science behind health. As a mother, I understand the reality of trying to put that knowledge into practice with two little people who have minds, preferences and opinions of their own!

So, I don't aim for perfection.

I aim to give my children a clean and healthy environment, nutritious food without fear or pressure, and an understanding that the planet they inherit is also their responsibility.

Hopefully, these small habits will become a natural part of who they are.

Because ultimately, I don't just want to raise healthy children.

I want to raise children who know how to take care of themselves, each other and the world around them.

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon

 My home is my heaven. When people address a certain 'someone' as their 'home', I am unable to relate to them. Because for me, my home doesn't travel with me anywhere, it's my abode, my residence, my safe haven..It can't change with the people I am or I am not residing, because my home is my steady rock.

I haven't changed many homes so far. It might be a handful for some, but given the nomadic nature of people and their jobs these days, this number may be insignificant.

I was born in Haldia, and few months after my birth, we shifted to another, then another and the final apartment, till we moved to Lord Krishna's birthplace Mathura and left Haldia, at the age of seven. For the uninitiated, Haldia is a port town in West Bengal. A really beautiful place, both the river and the sea at an arm's length.

In Mathura, we lived in only two apartments, before we moved to our forever home in Noida. I was in high school that time. Interior decoration had been a long passion of mine, from very early years. I became invested in decorating my home since our Mathura days. My mom wasn't very keen in styling interiors as such, she still is a stark minimalist. And I was slowly immersing myself in the tonnes of design spreads in the magazines and coffee table books. Till date, this is my favourite genre to indulge in. I clearly remember the tiffs I used to have with my minimalist mom, when I used to demand for bits and bobs.

After we shifted to Noida, my mom had pretty much surrendered. The layout of the house was my responsibility , and I took full pride when the guests raved about the details.

Then I got married during the final year of my medical degree; and for the first time in my life, I was 'solely in charge' of our first home. It was a modest 2 BHK in Mayur Vihar, Delhi and those 11 months of our 1st lease were truly the consequence of my sweat. We couldn't afford house help as we both were students, so I spent every free minute of my day scrubbing. All our guests who dropped by were pretty impressed as to how cute a rented apartment could look.

Since our landlord increased the rent too much, we had no choice but to hunt for another place, preferably in the NCR. The location of our Mayur Vihar flat was magnificent, it was literally 5 minutes walking from the metro station. So we started searching places near the metro, so that I could have access to public transport, when the car was with my husband.

We landed a good deal in Kaushambi, Ghaziabad and it was a newly constructed 3 BHK, 15 minutes walking from the metro station. That extra bedroom became my closet and it was the home where I did my post graduation, started my first job, brought my first born home and ultimately became self employed. We stayed there for 5 and a half years and I cherish every moment spent in that home.

In the spring of 2017, we shifted to Noida, in our own home, three societies away from my parents', the home where I spent my high school, graduation and ultimately got married. Life has literally been a full circle for me.

I have been decorating and redecorating our home time and again. My style has drastically changed, tiny bits and bobs don't fascinate me anymore, unless they hold some serious sentimental value. Because the dust load is too much, and I have a tonne on my hands to spend my precious time dusting everyday.

So yeah, if my home could speak to me, it would say: I am your rock, your haven and your safe space. After exploring 33 countries so far, yes , I can confidently say that my home is my most favourite place to be. 

This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon

 Title: Reflections through the Windscreen 

Author: Gaurav Khattar 

Publisher: White Falcon Publishing 

Genre: Biography 

Pages: 114

It's not the destination that matters. It's always the journey, and this book is a reflection of that. This is a very different type of book. The author narrates his road trip experiences. He drives 5 cars throughout the course of his life, which he names them, affectionately: Bison, Chamko, Ustaad, Haathi and Owl. Each vehicle is special, as the journeys undertaken by them is immemorial. 

Millenials would particularly be able to relate with his anecdotes, like how he reminisices Premier Padmini as his first car. Even my Dad had it and I could easily relate the smooth transition to Maruti 800 and Santro.

From various points in the Himalayas like Chopta to Chanshal Pass to Chakrata, to cities like Amritsar and then way down to the South, like Bengaluru, through the Golden Quadrilateral, the author has fathomed the length and breadth of the country on his various machines. What I have inferred is that he has a special place in his heart for the mountains. Well, for any North Indian ( Delhi NCR resident to be precise), driving to the Himalayas is definitely the easiest form of escape.

His SUV like Haathi (what an apt name) has been a witness of the uncertainty of the hilly roads, which can't be even called roads after all. He has gotten stuck at various instances, but his machines especially Haathi has drove him through dark forests, and had almost given up while on the way to Kullu, but the author had full faith in him.

He took out his Haathi only, after a full year of being inside during the pandemic. The way he describes freedom when he reaches Mukteshwar can only be felt, not articulated.

Some of his journeys are very emotional too. He was in his Haathi only, when his father was on his death bed. He didn't drive for a week, after his father passed away. But when he finally turned the engine on, he rediscovered himself.

 There are many lessons in this book, that demand introspection. The author has expressed them beautifully. Also his declaration that parking is personality, is something I fully resonate with.

His latest machine is the Toyota Hycross, whom he has named 'Owl'. So starting with the classic Premier Padmini 'Bison' to gradually conquering the roads on his Owl through the decades, it's been a profoundly eventful journey.

Overall it's a very easy read, big font and short tales. It's a really enjoyable book, especially if you are fond of road trips.

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’​ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Ratna Prabha.

Hair trends are formed when a hairstyle solves a problem for women, and they can’t help but fall in love with the solution. In the case of feather crochet hair, women love that it delivers a full hairstyle without needing to wear a heavy wig, and for many that lightweight feeling is a game-changer. 

If you have been hearing a lot about feather crochet hair and wondered what is all the hype about then you are in for a nice surprise. This hairstyle is based on extensions that give you a polished look without feeling bulky, and it’s so comfortable and versatile that it is hard not to fall in love with it. So if you were not sure why so many women are choosing this lightweight hairstyle this season then here are all the reasons for its popularity. 

What is Feather Crochet?

Feather crochet hair is a crochet extension method that uses hair joined at the middle with thin string. During installation the hair is pulled through natural braided hair using a special hook tool, so no bulky attachments are required for this hairdo. 

The simple design of these extensions helps them fall flat against the scalp instead of staying raised creating a smoother and natural looking finish that you just can’t get in any of the alternatives. But if you want the true natural look, then we recommend using only human hair feather crochet hair extensions for the authentic seamless feel. 

So to sum it all up these extensions are easily identifiable by their string center design and a complete lack of bulky knots. There is no tying the extension to the hair just a balanced two strands that move and flow effortlessly. 

Why is Everyone Talking About Feather Crochet Hair?

Hairstyles become popular because of one of two reasons: first is when everyone is wearing them, and the second is when women really enjoy wearing them. Feather Crochet hair falls in the second category combining a lightweight feel with an ease of installation making it perfect for everyday styling. 

Comfort is a major selling point here since the attachment point is so small, the finished style sits close to the scalp, and you barely feel you are wearing any extensions. You can work, go shopping, travel, or spend time with your family and friends while being completely carefree and that level of comfort is hard to find. Ladies love that these extensions create a more blended look especially near the roots of your hair. So no matter what angle someone is looking from the hairstyle looks flat and clean. 

And finally, the convenience these extensions offer supersedes all other reasons for their popularity. Once you install them there is little daily upkeep needed, so your busy mornings feel a lot easier with crochet hair, and this is the biggest reason why these extensions are being discussed everywhere. 

A Protective Style That is Actually Enjoyable

Wearing protective hairstyles is a double-edged sword; while they expand your styling options, most protective styles are uncomfortable and often involve complicated removal processes. These extensions offer protection while still being enjoyable. 

The installation involves braiding the hair into neat cornrows before attaching the crochet hair extensions over the braids. Once your natural hair is tucked away, you can enjoy a polished hairstyle without the daily manipulation. Not to mention the lightweight installation helps reduce bulk around the scalp region since the attachment point is so small it feels more comfortable while giving women the fullness they want. 

The breathable foundation created by braided hair underneath allows you to enjoy the breathability of this hairstyle, which is a blessing during hot summer days. In short this option is a perfect blend of protection and everyday wearability. 

Wearable on Every Occasion 

One of the nicest things about feather crochet hair is how easily they fit into every lifestyle. You don’t have to reserve it for a particular event because it works on both casual and dressy occasions. 

Whether you are heading to work, attending school, planning a vacation, celebrating a wedding, or simply getting ready for a night out, these lightweight extensions let you enjoy the occasion without requiring constant touch-ups. 

If you are planning to attend an event where you don’t want to worry about your hairstyle and want to focus on living in the moment and enjoying your day then this hairstyle ticks all the boxes. It offers a versatile style that works for so many different situations and it is another big reason why women keep coming back to this hairstyle. 

One of the Easiest Hair Extensions to Install

If you have experience installing basic crochet, then you will find the feather crochet hair extensions very beginner friendly. Here are some simple steps to get a perfect and lasting install:

Step 1. Separate the extensions into sections so they are easy to pick up one by one.

Step 2. Braid your natural hair into neat cornrows and use a crochet hook to gently pull one side of the extension through the braid so that the center string sits inside the braid with both sides hanging evenly. 

Step 3. Feather crochet hair extensions are also called knotless because they rely solely on friction between the braid and center string, so once you pull the extension through the braid, repeat the process until you have achieved the desired volume. No knots needed. 

Why Women Choose Only Human Hair Feather Crochet?

The quality of hair in feather crochet extensions matters the most when it comes to final results. That’s where Hermosa Hair 100% human hair feather crochet shine they offer a natural texture and shine not to mention a realistic finish that many women are after.

The lightweight construction is another standout feature. Hermosa Hair human hair crochet has ultra thin strings that help reduce bulk at the roots so you can enjoy a voluminous hairstyle without putting any weight on your scalp. So if you are investing in protective hairstyle then investing in high quality Hermosa Hair crochet is a wise choice. 

Conclusion

It’s easy to understand why feather crochet hair extensions have become one of the season’s most loved protective styles. The natural look and everyday wearability of these extensions is unmatched and if you were waiting to refresh your hairstyle then this is the style you were waiting for. 

This blog post is part of ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’
hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla
in collaboration with​ Tanvi Agarwal.

Buying a new wig can be somewhat daunting. In one simple Google search, you'll be presented with a slew of lace front, full lace, glueless, synthetic, human hair, and all of these other terms.

All those options can be daunting if you're new to wigs. The positive side is that knowing the various kinds of wigs isn't as difficult as it sounds.

With a basic understanding, it is easier to select the right wig. Here, we will explain the most commonly used wig types in simple terms so you can shop with confidence.

Why You Need to Know the Different Types Of Wigs

All wigs are not created equal.

Different types of wigs offer varying degrees of comfort, realism, styling options, and maintenance requirements. Understanding these differences can aid you in making the right selection when it comes to a wig and help you decide what kind of lifestyle you are looking to have.

There is a wig for everyone's needs, from everyday use to protective styling to the dramatic effect.

Human Hair Wigs

What are Human Hair Wigs?

Human hair wigs are created from authentic hair from a donor. They are constructed from natural hair and move and look like your hair.

Benefits Of Human Hair Wigs

Versatility is one of the greatest benefits.

They can be straightened, curled, blow-dried and styled as per your requirements. Also, they have a very natural texture and appearance.

Things To Consider

Human hair wigs are typically more expensive than synthetic wigs.

They also need to be maintained, like natural hair, including washing, conditioning and styling.

Synthetic Wigs

Synthetic Wigs – What Are They?

Synthetic wigs are wigs that are created using man-made fibers that mimic natural hair.

The wigs available today are much better and can look incredibly real.

The advantages of synthetic wigs are well worth the price.

Lace Front Wigs

What Is A Lace Front Wig?

Lace front wigs have a thin lace panel at the hairline. Each individual hair is connected to the lace and looks like hair growing straight from the scalp.

Why They're Popular

One of the most natural-looking hairlines that you can get is a lace front wig.

They also enable you to create a hairstyle that will look authentic even though it is pulled away from the face.

Best For

These wigs are perfect for those who value a natural appearance and styling flexibility.

Full Lace Wigs

How They Differ from Other Wigs

The difference between full lace wigs and lace front wigs is that full lace wigs are made up of a lace cap.

This means the hair is tied in each individual part of the wig.

Things To Consider

Full lace wigs can be more costly due to their construction technique. They also could need a bit of extra training to set up and sustain.

Glueless Wigs

A Best Friend For Beginners

One of the most popular wigs is a glueless wig.

They are specially engineered to be secure without any adhesive.

How They Work

The majority of glueless wigs have elastic bands, combs, clips or straps inside the cap that are adjustable.

These features can help keep the wig in place for the whole day.

Why Beginners Love Them

Glueless wigs are easily wearable and removable.

They save valuable time, preserve the hairline, and do not leave a mess like the glues that are used on wigs.

Closure Wigs

So What Is A Closure Wig?

A closure wig features a small lace part that is typically located at the crown or parting area.

The rest of the cap is made following the usual wig-making process.

The Advantages of Closure Wigs

Closure wigs are easy to install and are good for beginners.

They offer a natural-looking piece with reduced customizations for lace.

Whom Is It Ideal For?

They're perfect for those who prefer the look of lace but don't want the hassle of blending it.

360  Lace Frontal Wigs

Understanding 360 Frontal Wigs

360 frontal wigs have a larger lace area that covers the entire hairline, include front and back.

Styling Flexibility

Middle parts, side parts, updo and ponytail hairstyles with a frontal wig are possible.

Things You Should Be Aware Of 

Closure wigs are easier to take care of and may not need as much customization as frontal wigs.

But many people think the added versatility is worth the additional weight.

U-Part Wigs

What Is A U-Part Wig?

U-part wigs are wigs that feature a U-shaped part at the top.

This will enable you to still have some natural hair visible and blend with the wig.

Natural-Looking Results

The finished look may be very realistic as you use your own hair in the style.

The seamless blend is appreciated by many.

Perfect For

Those who prefer to show a bit of their natural hair will find the U-part wig a perfect fit.

Headband Wigs

Effortless And Convenient

The popularity of headband wigs is due to their ease of wear. The front is not laced but covered by a fashionable headband.

Beginner-Friendly Features

No lace cutting, glue or customization is necessary. Simply put it on and go.

Ideal for busy days!

Headband wigs are perfect for going to work, running errands, going for a casual night out, exercising, and traveling.

Monofilament Wigs

What Is A Monofilament Wig?

Monofilament wigs have a special cap material that creates the impression of a natural scalp.

Each hair will be individually hand-placed in the cap.

Realistic Appearance

This means the hair can flow as it would in real hair and gives realistic part lines.

Many individuals find them comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Ideal For Everyday Use

People who want a comfortable, realistic-looking wig for everyday use may opt for a monofilament wig.

Machine-Made Wigs

Budget-Friendly Option

Machine-made wigs are one of the most economical wig options offered.

Hair is not hand-sewn but rather machine-sewn onto the cap. In additon, there is no lace on the wig cap.

Why It’s Trendy

They are strong, simple to care for, and can be found in so many styles to choose from.

They are a wonderful choice for those who are new to wigs or have an interest in obtaining one.

Things To Consider

However convenient, they may not be as natural as lace wigs.

Hand-Tied Wigs

Premium Construction

Hand-tied wigs are made by hand, with one hair added at a time.

This results in exceptional movement and realism.

Lightweight Touch

Due to the meticulous craftsmanship, these wigs are likely to feel lighter and more comfortable.

The hair flows in all directions.

Worth The Investment?

The comfort and realism are worth the extra cost for many wearers.

Consideration for Your Right Wig

Consider Your Lifestyle

Consider how often you'll wear your wig.

For those who wear wigs every day, a comfortable and easy-to-care-for choice, such as glueless or monofilament wigs, can be advantageous.

Think About Maintenance

Some wigs are more stylish yet call for more care than other wigs.

Decide which wig you want to put the effort into maintaining.

Set A Budget

Quality wigs are offered at pretty much all price ranges.

Establishing a budget in advance will help you determine the options and make shopping easier.

Final Thoughts

While picking the first wig can seem like a daunting task, it's not difficult at all. With a knowledge of the various types of wigs, you can be better equipped to choose the one that fits your lifestyle, budget and your style to the best of your ability.

Whatever your choice of wig is, whether it's a glueless human hair wig, a lace front wig or a closure wig, you should feel comfortable and confident in your choice.

Begin with your requirements, consider comfort, and don't be afraid to experiment. There are so many wigs out there today that there's a wig for everyone.