Giveaways are Awesome-st! ;)

Hiii Pehpul :D
I had a reeally nice morning today when I received a lovely gift from Fashion Quotient ! :)
I had won a giveaway on this lovely blog and got my parcel today, properly wrapped in a bubble sheet!
Well this was my first ever parcel from Chattisgarh :D

My Sister wearing the Pink Glass Statement Ring

my gift! :)

Giveaways are real fun...and they are Awesome too. I am just waiting for my blog to be at that stage when I can host giveaways. Its good to give such pretty gifts, isn't it? :)

Its time for me to do some work, so why not you guys go and check out this giveaway on Sadee Style? well here is the link, rush for it, NOW :D

Click on the link http://www.sadeestyle.net/2012/05/giveaway-by-harvey-prince.html ..  
and you can win an awesome perfume :)

I will be back to catch up with you all, real soon :)

Tadaaa!

Rain, Rain come again :D

The season is of Interviews, admissions and THE arrival of Rainy Season!

When I got up this morning, sky was studded with grey-ish clouds and cool breeze touched my bare hands. I felt a curve on my face and a delighted one; that monsoon are not far now :)

My younger brother and I have a bet now. He says Rains will hit Mumbai on 21st June and I say its gonna be 10th June. I hope I win; because:
1) I want Monsoon to come real soon
2) I don't want to play cricket cards if I lose! :P

Rainy Season has always been my favorite. There is some kind of happiness by getting drenched in the first rain; sit by the window, sip Masala tea with hot yummy Pakodas and listen to the soothing droplets! :) It makes me feel as if every rain drop washes away the gloominess all around us. It would be time to bring out my raincoat or looks like I am going to buy a new one. I don't remember where I kept the old one.

Oh wait! Is that sun hurling out of a cloud? No ways! :(
I am going out to check this, till then share with me your favorite Rain-Movie Sequence (Bollywood/Hollywood)! :)
Mine, is the evergreen romantic dance of Kajol-SRK from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai <3
(I have seen this movie 78 times till now :D)

Its always fun to participate in lovely giveaways, how about this one today? >  Giveaway by Beauty and the Cheap 
click here > http://beautyandthecheap.blogspot.in/2012/05/beauty-and-cheaps-100-follower-giveaway.html

Tell me about yourself !

Tell me about your 'Strengths'

Yes, I do have a life other than participating in Giveaways! :D
Few days back I happened to travel with a lady in her mid 30's. She was returning from an interview with an MNC and I was going for one. We got chatting and she told me how we have a "Personal Interview" at every stage of life! Soon her station came, I bid her adieu and got thinking about my personal experiences of
"Tell me about yourself"...

Stage.1. School Admission
So, first comes the time when a School Principal or teacher calls you for a chat before granting you admission.
I remember my first interview in school for admission in 1st std. The Principal asked me the color of a tiffin box (lunch box), lying on his table and then I remember myself reciting a poem. Well this was 1997, 15years back. Changed two schools after that and came in college.

Stage.2.College Admission
There was no Personal Interview (admission on the basis of merit). Generally, colleges do have Interviews. But for me, other than the famous Personal interview with the principal or a college faculty, the tete-a-tete was with the seniors. Oh Boy! That was fun. No Ragging, but a simple "Tell us about yourself" (and- sing, dance or act) ;)

Stage.3. Summer Internship
There came 2nd year and the mandatory Internship. I gave 3 Interviews including the place I finally landed up with. I got to know that when you go for your first Internship Interview, they are not very much concerned about what you do in your college and how much marks you scored but what you will do in college after completing the Internship. You should know how to convince them that you are the right candidate and their internship won't be just a work for you but a learning experience. Show them your college term projects, discuss your subjects and tell them how your knowledge can help their company.
Before getting the internship I was interviewed by the HR Manager, then the department head and then the boss of the department head, phew! Many questions, a presentation by me; the Interview was Fun!

Stage.4.Interview for Masters
I gave my first interview for masters last year. A memorable one. Now they are very much interested in what you did when you were in college; your projects, cultural activities, participation in College Festivals and your academic performance. Why do you want to do masters? Why our college? What are your future plans? etc. etc. Preserve all your projects, best of assignments and research work. Yes, take them with you in Interview. If there is a soft copy, put it on a CD. Pen-drives won't work here for the sheer fact that they don't have the whole day for your interview, other candidates are waiting outside for their chance. In that case, a CD works. I passed in the interview I gave for the exam which happened last year. The other Interview is next month. Wish me luck! :)

Stage.5.Interview for Job

Just for Laughs! ;)

Since I am done with graduation, other than applying for masters I am giving Interview for Jobs. 3, so far. Follow the terms what I mentioned for Internship. Beware, Do not mention about your interest in masters. To add, try and be more convincing.
(P.S- I have stopped giving Job Interview for the sheer doubt that what if I get admission in my dream college + get a job = what to do situation)

Moving on, I feel no one passes an interview. For that matter, no one fails it either.
The scissor gets a look at the paper and the paper get a feel of the scissor!
They already have your resume, know about your marks, achievements/awards. But still each one of them asks, "tell us about yourself"... you should be ready for this. Keep yourself in their place, think why they must have called you? what is there in you that you are sitting here?
For that, you must KNOW yourself. Your resume tells all but who you really are *wonders*

Tell them what makes you special (pl, no cliche answers), What is your USP; after all you are selling yourself.
Remember, do NOT bluff. An experienced Interviewer can easily spot a lie. They don't expect you to be an Albert Einstein, Kiran Bedi, Bill Gates or Rupert Murdoch; but they do expect you to be Honest :)

Never be NERVOUS! It shows on your face, go with a smile :)

Hold on, the lady I met in train told me about one more stage;
Stage.6.Interview with your prospective In-laws!
I am yet to experience this. Will get to know in a few years(s)(s) down the line :P Then, will share for sure :)

P.S-  "Tell me about yourself" and your stages! :D
do leave-in your comments! I would love them. :)

Lin Handmade Greeting Cards: Giveaway time

I have always had this secret sweet corner for art and craft. I log-in on you tube almost daily for new techniques on making greeting cards or surprise gifts. Today I came across this; Lin Handmade Greeting Cards (http://azlina-lin.blogspot.in/), fabulous blog. This Malaysian blogger, well her life is all about Craft. She has a awesome giveaway running on her blog until the end of this month. All you have to do is follow few simple steps and if you win you can have a Greeting Card Making Tool Box, which is quite beautiful in itself.

Picture speaks, indeed ;)

If you ever get stuck with the art of making Greeting Cards, the blog has loads of links to make you learn how to craft with paper and the results are indeed awesome. So, what are you waiting for? Click on this link, follow few simple steps and be a part of this giveaway.

The Link: http://azlina-lin.blogspot.in/2012/05/may-2012-blog-giveaway.html

My next post is coming up real soon! :)
Tab tak ke liye, Adios!

Giveaway by 'The Ugly Moments'

Have been enjoying my lazy vacations and doing what I love; Reading and writing!
I ran across The Ugly Moments, a lifestyle blog! The blog is beautiful, crossed 400 GFC Fans recently and is here with a beautiful giveaway. Do click on the link below and participate :)

Giveaway consists of a clutch, accessories and some beauty products.

Simple easy steps can make you win loads :D
Here is the link: http://theuglymoments.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/giveaway-to-celebrate.html

Check out the blog too :)

Mother's Day Gift - with an Astro-Twist

She is the earth I have been standing on for so long! <3

Happy Mother's Day :)

Mother's Day is tomorrow and there are 'n' number of gifts to make your mother feel 'special'. Instead of the usual lunch and a card why not gift her something which appeals to her astrological sign?

If you know what goes best with her zodiac sign;
it is easier to make her 13th May, awesome! :)

Aries (March 21st - April 19)

Buy gifts that appeal to the adventurously-playful side of an Aries, such as skydiving lessons, auto-racing lessons or tickets to a sporting event. The Arian likes an experience rather than something tangible. Most Arians love new hobbies and learning new tasks. Hair accessories, earrings, sunglasses and stylish organizers are also popular if your Mom is an Aries. Gifts which revolve around physical and competitive pursuits, vehicles, gadgets, and hands-on activities will bring a big smile to your Aries face. If you'd like to do something special for her, take her to the golf range or plan a vigorous hike.
Red is their governing colour as it's the colour of life and energy excitement, risk and danger. Bright red flowers are therefore a great gift for the fiery Aries Mom.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20) 

Taurus is ruled by Venus, the plant of decorative arts, therefore they are great lovers of all things beautiful. Season tickets to the theatre or opera, a sculpture or a piece of fine art should be on your list. A food hamper with delicious and comforting food such as chocolates, cakes and cookies is definitely going to appeal your Taurean Mom. Sumptuous clothing will always get a smile. A soft dressing gown or plush slippers will make them feel pampered and special. A soft luxury cashmere sweater is a good choice as is anything made of touchable luxury fabrics.
Gift wrapping is very important. The packaging should be as grand and as luxury as the gift itself. Especially for her, the tissue paper, ribbon and pattern of gift paper is a very important part of the gift.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

Hmm… when it comes to finding the perfect gift for a Gemini it could prove to be a bit tricky to say the least. Gemini is always on the go so travel accessories would be popular. Gemini moms are information mongers -- they want to know the who, what and why of everything. A fancy new cell phone will keep her connected to her nearest and dearest.

A leather-bound journal may also appeal to this wordy mom, as would a hot new 

best-seller. Looking for an activity? Try a trip downtown to window shop or a visit to a museum. Gemini's also love photos (especially of themselves) and they are in their element either behind the camera or in front of it. Give them a sterling silver photo frame or a fun photo frame and let them show off either their artwork or themselves! A bespoke gift hamper is absolutely ideal. Or maybe a gift such as an interesting book or Vouchers to splurge.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
The Cancerian is the most sentimental and emotional sign of the zodiac therefore would really appreciate a hand-made and personal gift that shows that you really have gone out of your way to pick something just for them.  For sentimental Cancer the gift wrap may be more important than the gift itself and he or she may hold on to the card forever. Cancerians love nostalgic gifts, they adore antique shops  – everything that’s linked to family or the past.  Look out for collectibles, old family photos, heirlooms and things that were available during their childhood but are hard to find these days. Cancerian are warm and home-loving. Give them something that can be used to decorate their home or make it feel warm and welcoming.  Things like colourful silk cushions, a warm quilt, a luxury Persian rug, table runners, table mats, a Chinese jar and so on. You can also give your Cancerian Mom something that will allow them to collect some wonderful memories like a digital camera or a video camera. They will also be excited with gifts like a travel memory book, a scrap book or a photo album. Breakfast in bed is another great way to pay tribute to this born nurturer.

Leo ( July 23 - August 22)

Gift giving for a Leo needs to be truly an occasion. When you give any gift to a Leo it needs to be gift-wrapped beautifully and it needs to be presented dramatically!The female Leo is not one to wear rhinestones or plastic pearls, but glittering golds and crimsons fit for royalty. Gift her a high quality make-up, perfumes, and other cosmetics, and she will glow with joy at the chance to be pampered. Many Leos have artistic and culinary talents, so gifts that support an artistic hobby or are related to cooking and baking are often good choices. Take her for a theatrical show or to a spa or saloon, something that appeals to her inner diva!

Virgo (August 24 - September 22)

Virgo Moms are practical, possessing inquiring and logical minds. And so, once it comes to giving gifts, you'll want to present her with useful things that make their everyday life that much easier. Let it be a food processor, vacuum cleaner of latest model, or kitchen equipped with next year technology. 

Virgos rule the house of health, so a health-conscience gift would always be appropriate.  Practical crafts, reading and research books regarding intellectual pursuits, learning new things, sewing, taking care of domestic pets, walking and other forms of solitary exercise, woodworking, writing (usually non-fiction) are all great gift ideas for the Virgo. Organizers, personal planners, a new bookshelf, any sort of container or gadget that will help the Virgo to tidy up things will be a pleasure to receive. Also, because Virgos tend to worry about more than they need to, relaxing gifts work well such yogo or meditation gifts. The best of all, turn the tables and cook a meal for your Mom! :)

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

Gifts associated with the astrological sign of Libra will revolve around anything luxury, aesthetics, intellectual and sociable pursuits, and mind-body arts such as yoga. Libra Moms enjoy dancing, anything to do with design and decoration (buildings, interiors, or fashions). Quite the intellect Librans love a dispute but will equally enjoy quiet mediation. never limit yourself with just one gift. Let the curiosity heat up.
Start the day tomorrow with waking your Libra Mom with aroma of her favourite coffee or tea and freshest cake. Present the flowers and sweets, maybe one or two other small gifts to keep the interest going... postpone the main gift - later, later... Take her to a restaurant, take a walk with her in the park, give them a ride on the boat - and rest assured your effort would be fruitful or even cook the dinner yourself. And then hand over the main gift, or better yet - gifts. The mission accomplished, your Libra Mother will remember this day all her life.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
Gifts associated with the astrological sign of Scorpio revolve around high-intensity sports, in-depth study of favourite topics, and anything that requires strategy. Scorpio likes getting gifts so much that from time to time gives gifts to themselves. If your Mom is a Scorpio, she'l prefers quality over quantity, so make sure your choice is elegant and upscale no matter what. Perfumes, fine leather bag, purse, novels (especially mystery; crime; espionage; and non-fiction topics such as sexuality, business strategy, and psychology). A pair of designer sunglasses will appeal to this mom's love of intrigue.A heartfelt letter of thanks will also be welcome.

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

Sagittarius loves motion and freedom and is happy about everything that enables her to get out of the house – a trip, day at a spa, bicycle, rockets and a bus ticket to another city to visit a friend – all equally good choices. If your Mom is a Sagittarius, she loves travel, so travel related gifts are good. A trip to someplace far away with a very different culture would be a Sagittarius dream gift.Travel equipment or books and videos on travel to different exotic places will appeal to this sign. She would also love good quality collector edition books, especially travel guides, photographic panoramic landscapes and of course a good philosophical read.  Sagittarians are also well known for their sense of adventure, so an experience day voucher will be well received as they will love a fun filled day out at a theme park, kayaking, abseiling or parachuting. Alternatively, plan out a surprise party for her! :D
She would also love sentimental pieces that remind her of You. Find a mug, belt buckle or even a t-shirt with a Sagittarius slogan splashed across it. They will absolutely love it! Their favourite Colour is purple and for gift wrapping, the fancier the better!

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

Capricorns like gifts, not gaudy and expensive but practical and useful. A heartfelt message on a card, a bracelet or ring, dinner, an inscription on a bookmark in a book that you give her, or just sharing photos of you both will tell a Capricorn Mom that she is an important part of your life. Buy her a silk scarf or an elegant pearl necklace. Flowers that will wilt, chocolates that will be eaten, and exotic decorations that will be stored neatly in the attic are not good options. Capricorn's favourite colour is green. Like their gifts they prefer conservative and tasteful gift wrapping with absolutely no glitter.

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

People born under the sign of Aquarius are not only charismatic but also the visionaries of the Zodiac therefore they enjoy progress and learning new things, they are true individualists with a unique style.  If your Mother is an Aquarian, she is probably traditionalist, look for something exquisite, that emanates the feelings of another place and another time - anything that can allow her thoughts to drift and everyday life to new and captivating concepts, such as a piece of jewellery that must have been worn by a beautiful woman, fiercely independent, just like the Aquarius woman. The latest piece of technology or gadget, whatever it may be at the time, will fit the her personality.  Everything that has something to do with universe and space, everything that is mysterious, will make your Aquarius Mother happy.

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

People born under the sign of Pisces are usually kind, compassionate, unworldly and selfless.  They love gifts of all kinds but mystical gifts will appeal the most, anything that will help them escape the harsh realities of life. If your Mother is a Pisces, she'll appreciate plenty of pamper gifts such as luxury bath foam, floating bath candles, fine wine and chocolates. Photography also has a special place for Pisces as they are also natural born photographers. Gift her a camera or anything related to photography or give her family photos of treasured moments, framed exquisitely of course or a photo album. Why not delight her by surprising with some special peppermint foot cream and a relaxing foot massage. Anything that's soft and rejuvenating for the feet such as a foot spa is likely to be a good gift choice.  Something that tickles her taste-buds, gives her comfort, is a treat for the eye or helps her to escape would be perfect.
She'll appreciate all beautiful things, from the flowers of nature to handcrafted tapestries. Pisces are children of the ocean, so anything relating to water is welcome. Think scented bath salts, scented oils, candles. A trip to the coast or a lake will make a your Mother really happy.

Happy Mother's Day to my Mommy
and
to all the beautiful mothers! :) 

P.S: Thanks to http://www.gifts.com/birthday/horoscope-gift-guide.html and an old-long-lost email about -Gifts that Women Like in my mail box, for this blog post!and For instant gifts,
Check out  http://www.vouchersmate.com/, they have a contest on Mother's Day running too!

or http://www.gifts-to-india.com/ for 'n' number of choices to choose from!
or http://www.flipkart.com/ 

Do tell me what all you did to make 'her' feel special in the comments section.


Enjoy the 13th May, 2012! See you in next week :)
Saayonara ;)