GREAT SULEKHA BALL WITH JOCKY & DANCE COACH!!!

Everybody is excited about thsi Great Sulekha Ball. Interesting Pair up by Das and I guess a red carpet welcome to all the participates. But there are couple of things missing here.

I don't see a Jocky in place for this great event. So I am going to take the honor of hosting as the Jocky of tonight. I plan to play some excellent numbers and like to music of choice from the floor. Also I see lot of novice dancers on the floor who never even imagined dancing with well dressed men and wonderful beautiful ladies. I am also taking the pleasure of teachings ome dance steps. Tag along with me for fun night.

Its going to be tough for left footed(thats means they can't dance) individuals. Try you best. Lets start with WALTZ which DOC's favorite and its slow and sweet.

WALTZ

Waltz is a smooth progressive dance characterized by long, flowing movements, continuous turns, and rise & fall. Graceful and elegant, Waltz dancers glide around the floor almost effortlessly

Slow Waltz music is sweet, melodic and fluid. It is often orchestral music, mostly lacking in heavy percussion or drums, relying more on the melodic instruments to carry the rhythmic progression.

Men's Part
Left foot forward.
Right foot side & slightly forward.
Left foot closes to left foot.

Lady's Part

Right foot back.
Left foot side & slightly back.
Right foot closes to right foot.

Play the music: Fly me to the Moon

http://www.ballroomdancers.com/Music/info_song.asp?song=108321

Check out the link: http://www.ballroomdancers.com/Media2/Default.asp?ID=560

Hope you all got that steps. Try it out again, again. You don't need a partner to start with, just with hands wide and try the foot steps.

Here is some more music coming on your way,

http://www.ballroomdancers.com/Music/info_song.asp?song=108027

http://www.ballroomdancers.com/Music/info_song.asp?song=109602

Whats do you guys prefer the next dance, Salsa or Rhumba ?!

INDIA TOUR IN ENGLAND - What can we expect?!

Lords, St John's Wood - London - Temperature around 60oC with slight chance of rain tomorrow.

Its a real nice spring like weather in London. Only between July and August, London really warms up to make it very much suitable to play a good and hard cricket. Its also the time of the year, weather get so unpredictable as per weather channel. We have seen it proved many times in Wimbledon opens.

At this great season and cool atmosphere, Team India is touring England after visiting Ireland and pocketing a good series wins over South Africa. They played good team cricket to take away the series 2-1 from Africans. It's India's first outing since 2002 to England. We won the NatWest tri-series by winning the final match 2 wkts under Ganguly's leadership. We were able to squel the 4 match test series 1-1. Its been 40 years since we won the test series in England soil.

Now its time for Dravid's to head the team and own the soul authority of the youngers to take on the Englishmen first time in his captaincy. The first match started off today in the prestigious and historic cricket ground in the world, THE LORD's. India is set to play 3 Tests and 7 ODI's during this tour.

The teams will compete to win the test series and take away the Pataudi Trophy, given by MCC to commemorate the 75th anniversary of India's Test debut.

Team India

It might probably the last English series for the famous batting quartet of captain Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman, and the four great guns will be keen to make an impression to make this contest interesting and thrilling one.

Strength

Bagging some wins on the way to London, Team India is showing good signs and has high level of confidence determined to decimate the Englishmen in full force at their own territory. They already played 2 warm-up match against the local county teams gave enough time to get acclimatised to the conditions.

Dravid better be well equipped with a good game plan and match strategy to go under critical conditions. Also our paper tigers need to show something in the pitch with some sensible and good batting. We do have strong battling lineup as usual including from Jaffer, Dinesh Karthik supported by experienced Dravid, Sachin & Ganguly. Dhoni as the 7th batsman with double duty on wicket keeping to add more depth to batting.

Weakness

Bowling department lacks experience, so it puts pressure on the bastmen to churn out big runs against the home team. Sreeshanth & RP Singh are yet to make their impression in the English Soil. Chawla will be the only spinner this time around taking the lead from Kumble to make english spin around the pitch.

Team England

Its the reciprocal tour of England tour to India in last 2006. England draw the series 1-1 but lost the ODI series to India. They sure do have plans to slump us to take away the test series.

Strength

It's their home ground and they are very well equipped with the same power to take the Indians under Vaughan leadership. The batting order is strong with Strauss and Cook opening the match. Pietersen and Collingwood will be supporting them coming next with Vaughan(captain) showing up in the middle.

Weakness

All-rounder Andrew Flintoff and paceman Steve Harmison are out of this match due to injuries. So England are banking more on their spin sensation Monty Panesar to show the magic. It will be a real test of character for the amiable spinner, the first Sikh to play Test cricket for England.

Also Broad, who has been selected in the England side for the first Test at Lord's.

To conclude, its going to be a good outing to watch and follow. With the weather really unpredictable, we have to wait and see how much cricket they can get to play.

With the strong batting order, we should be able to put chucks of runs on the board and try to bowl line and length to push them to win a match to start with and take on from there. I am hoping see a good show from the new guys Sreeshant and RP Singh. Also waiting to watch tons from Dravid and Laxman's in this series.

Harry Potter Last book Climax Revealed...

One of the big news of today was all about the Harry Potter last and final book spoofing on the climax. A site reportedly posted some 400 photographs of final book revealing some the climax's that every Harry Potter fans longing to know about. This news had churned lot of discussions about the books fate when its set to release by Friday of this week.

Here is the snap shot of the story from MSNBC,

The set of nearly 400 photographs was said by those who posted them to replicate the Potter book in its entirety. The images, viewed by MSNBC.com, purport to be photographs of the new book, painstakingly taken two pages at a time from a copy lying open on the floor.

Good, the Scholastic spokeswoman, would neither confirm nor deny the authenticity of the files.

"There are multiple conflicting versions of what is alleged to be the book," she said. "I am not going to say what's real and what's not real. Nobody is going to be able to tell until they read the real book."

The highly anticipated final book in J.K. Rowling's seven-part series goes on sale Friday night. As is common with the release of highly publicized books and movies, pirates have posted several files online that they claim were obtained from advance copies.

Dueling endings

Last month, a hacker who identified himself as “Gabriel” claimed to have broken into the computer system of British publisher Bloomsbury PLC and posted what he claimed were key plot points, including the deaths of two central characters in the series.

Another version that surfaced this week said that no fewer than five characters die in a violent climax.The version that surfaced Tuesday had a very different outcome, with three characters dying.

I am guessing, it might have well planned drama of the publisher to increase the publicity and invoke interest among the readers.

Free publicity, who don't want that huh!!

DON'T DARE TO KNOW ME - I AM TAGGED TOO

Alright, I am on the roll play to join the bandwagon by getting Tagged today. Balls are at my court thrown by four of my favy bloggers Pakhi, sanghouston, mottogucci & Ally. Thank you for thinking of me guys!!

I was little concerned yesterday about not getting picked for tagging. Now I got tagged, I feel why the heck I got tagged. Its not tough job to find few good, bad & ugly things about you. But its very good exercise to divulge about yourself and reinvent for the world. Its a fun game.

Before anybody gets me again, here is my list of 8 testaments as of today.

1. I am a good person.

2. I am a social & fun loving guy.

3. I am a kind gentleman.

OK! OK!! Don't look at me like that. I know its too good to be true. Enough of bragging about myself. Lets cut to the chase and share a small part of my original face.

Real list of 8 things about me,

GOOD

1. I had a wonderful middle class type childhood learning life lessons in hard way. My mom taught me the mantra, "Hard work with Confidence and Commitment never fails" which has been my core asset since my teen. I am happy to have great parents who always supported my efforts. I am grateful to live the All American Dream life with my lovely wife and cute little boy.

2. I am a never give up, never quit persistence fanatic. I am follower of the famous saying from Swami Vivekanada, "Arise Awake and Stop not till the goal is reached" and keeper of Ghazni Mohammed Never Quit story. Its been working well all these years rendering great success so far. To name one, I ran my first ever Boston Marathon in just 3:41 mins. I never imagined to run that long in my life. I have valise full of never give up stories but its not the time.

3. I am Social service passionate. I love to help out others and contribute to the country & society in whatever way I can whether its India or USA. I believe in JFK's words, "Ask not what the country can do for you, ask what you can do for the country". I always find ways to help and also involve others into it. I been trying to create a Helping Angel Forum in Sulekha by bloggers to help each other when in need. Hope one day, I will gain all your trust to make it happen.

4. I am not a King of a trades but I like to say Jack(ass) of all arts. I like to do things myself whether its plumbing job or computer repair. I always keep tabs on most of the latest happenings around the world from Politics to music, sports to technology and whatever it begs my interest. I am a goal oriented person. Try to set goals in my everything I do and go for it.

I believe in healthy living. I don't hesitate to spend hours and hours in Gym working out and experimenting different. I am a decent cook, like to cook for a change and give my wife break. I am not vivid reader but read readers digest and Toastmaster magazines which shows up at my door step every month. I love watching movies. I won't hear a thing when I am fully immersed into it.

5. I am a music addict. It doesn't just limit to particular genre, its all over the map. I would die without any music tonic every day. Right now, I am adventuring on western Drums and also trying to learn Mirudangam(southern percussion instrument). So I can play both together, thats on of my ambition. I love to freak out and go for dancing especially Ballroom & Latin. I spent lot of time learning them professionaly. I love nature walks and adventurous trips. I am avid traveller and have a dream to travel all states of US by road one day.

Coin collecting and key chains gathering is some of my other hobbies. Right now, I am in hunt for american State Quarter (25 cents) coins. Every year since 2000, US Mint releases 5 coins of different states commemorating their entry to the Union to form United states. I am a die hard cricket fan. I am follow other sports like Tennis and trying to get hands on it too.

BAD

6. I am a short tempered guy but not a petulant person. Anything can set my anger alarm off when I am on a some serious job. That what I hate about myself and trying to work on it. But basically I am a soft & kind hearted.

7. I am easy to be pleased and made to believe anything. I was never an hard nut case. Anybody can easily gain access to my inner feelings and take advantage of it.

8. Last but not least, I long for attention. I feel its bad some way. But I always like to be noticed in whatever I do. Sulekha is been a savior on that side my life. I always want to be showcased in the featured list. I know that too much of greed. But I been getting some reasonable attention lately thru your valuable and kind comments fueling to push myself hard to strive and deliver good blogs.

UGLY - I couldn't find anything so bad about me.

~ Sigh ~ Its finally done. I hope it didn't take you all to the boredom space.

I am going to tag some new comers to Sulekha who is been trying to make impression in this blog world.

Density Matrix

R-Sharma

madysandy

Silvycorner

Ether

meenakshinm

Vidya Rajagopalan

venkysunshine.sulekha.com

The rules of the game:

1. Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves.
2. People who are tagged, write a blog post about their own 8 random things, and post these rules.
3. At the end of your post you need to tag 8 people and include their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment and tell them they’re tagged, and to read your blog.

Tag on and join the fun game...

THE DEPARTED Movie Review

The movie that fetched Best Director Award to Martin Scorsese(last Oscar 2007), a well known, top rated director in Hollywood vicinity. Its been a long due for this 64 year old creator since 1981 when his movie "Raging Bull" was first nominated. His other nominations include "The Last Temptation of Christ," "Goodfellas", "Gangs of New York and "The Aviator". Its worth a wait and "THE DEPARTED" proved it from its box of his hit.

On the oscar night, when he finally received the much awaited award, he shared his joy bringing out smiles around the audiences & viewers by saying "Can you please check the envelope again?! He has a great presence among the Hollywood celebrities and everybody gave him a standing ovation for his accomplishment. Some of other good ones which I like from his catalogue that might have helped him to get his fame were Taxi Driver, Cape Fear & Casino.

Lets segway to talk about "THE DEPARTED", another wonderful number adding one more feather to his crown. Its featured by a great and flawless performance from the good old Jack Nicholas and his company.

An excellent, improved showcase by Matt Damon and class acting from new cameo Leo DiCaprio made this one a must to watch. The setting's is from Boston instead of Newyork and the gangsters may be Irish rather than Italian-Americans, but the brutal, straight to the face violence with raw dialogues makes it an amazing piece of work.

The story of the movie, goes off in thirteen to a dozen different directions to confuse viewers who aren't really well versed in watching mob movies with different accent. It actually threw my wife off with all the Boston slangs and the "F" word used in every dialogue spoken. Actually counting the number of "F" work used in this movie would be a great competition.

The main plotline that matters more: the race to uncover the moles hidden inside the mob and the Massachusetts State Police.

Here is the small version of the story. Massachusetts state police force is waging war on organized crime ran by a mob, headed by gangland chief Costello (Jack Nicholson). Young undercover cop Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) is assigned to infiltrate the mob syndicate. While Billy is quickly gaining Costello's confidence, Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), a hard nut young criminal brought up by Costello especially to join the police force.

As a bright young man who wants to show his true respect to Costello and pay off his debt, he promised to do his best to infiltrate the police department and work as an informer for the syndicate. He immediately raised to a position of power in the Special Investigation Unit thru his excellent and dedicated work getting hands on the case.

Both the men becomes deeply involved by his double life, gathering information about the plans and counter-plans of the operations he has penetrated. But when it becomes clear to both the gangsters and the police that there's a mole in their midst, Billy and Colin are suddenly in danger of being caught in a dead trap and exposed to the enemy and each must race to uncover the identity of the other man in time to save himself.

Its also has a love triangle bringing these two men, sorting shelter for pleasure. The climax was tragic with an unexpected turn folding at the end, bringing a stop to all rat & mole story.

Overall, its movie which has all sorts of substance, and sure to entertain people who look out for a thriller feast. It doesn't fail to surprise at times and reveals the vulgarity of a mob movie all time with its dialogue and action.

Here is the snippet from about.com to say about this movie,

"The Departed is a star-studded gangster thriller loaded with profanity, dark humor, graphic violence, and stunning performances. It’s wild and edgy and everything we’ve come to love about Scorsese"

Plus Points: Good story, excellent direction, good actions from Jack, Matt & Dicaprio

Minus Points: Editing and flow at times lag

Movie Rating:

Music Rating:

My Son is Toddling and Talking...

My one year old sweet little son just stepped into another adventurous year one month ago and he is starting to toddle to prove he has become a true toddler.

He is toddling like a DUCK and talking like a PARROT

We watched him walk a full stretch of 10 feet going back and forth touching the TV. We were so happy to see him toddle like a duck and trying to balance with his hands.

For Parents, every stage of kids life is special and different with interesting things to look out and watch for all the time. Every kid is unique on its own and very special for their parents. They progress differently. As adults, we tend to enjoy their innocent smile, duck walks, crawling, peculiar sounds they make and every little things they do. I guess its because we see ourselves in them. We see a little version of us in their naughty, no-worry life and try to cheer it. That's what I feel when I see my son.

We been waiting to see him walk all this time from the day he turned one. We have the cameras ready to tape this finest moments. He showed some signs of walking with bit of support, so we hoped he would be walking in no time on his own. Since he is a fast crawler, my wife kept saying he won't walk soon because he crawls fast.

Kids who crawls fast doesn't tend to walk or toddle soon is her myth since they can crawl soon enough to reach places and they don't put special effort to walk to reach places. That may be actually true in my son's case.

When we tried to make him walk, he don't want to walk. He just want to crawl to go any places. He can crawl and reach upstairs in 5 secs. He is so finicky to not to walk rather choose to crawl. I have seen some kids don't crawl well but they start to walk soon. I know it all depends and varies from kid to kid. So we just have to wait a little long with patience.

He suddenly started walking one day and trying to walk continusly without any support now. We were so thrilled to see him walk more often and taking trips to his favorite places in his cute duck's walk steps.

He also started responding to our chats thru his cute little childish speeches, trying to convey something. He repeat words like a Parrot when my wife teaches him.

She would says, "VIJAI". He would say, EEEJAY.

I say, "APPA", he would try to say, "IPPPA".

When we try to stress on it, he wouldn't do it. Kids have it own way of doing things and have their own mood cycle. We have to wait to get on to their cycle to go along them. That's what we learnt so far and every day is a new learning for us. He is starting to get good at repeating numbers too. He is a fast learner(like me, I suppose)

He say, "theedreee" for "Three" and "TTooo" for "Two".

When he repeats them, he is blushing with mouth full of teeth's.

We are totally enjoying every bit of our son's childhood. Kids are so adorable and their funny activities make us feel like we are reliving our child life. Don't you agree?!

I know the days are not too far out when he is going to get on my nerve's and make me mad.I hope I can handle that time.

FRIDAY THE 13th AND HORRIFICATION!!

Today is Friday the 13th!!

Only couple of times a year, day 13th falls on the friday of the week. This year, it already fell one time in April and today is the last one for this year. Whenever that happens, you hear lot of superstitions, urban legends, phobia's and lot of other horror stories. Last year we heared about 6-6-2006(666) phobia created around the world. We were worried about my wife giving birth on that day but fortunately not.

This Friday 13th and 666(triple six) phobia whirls around among the people is really weird if you think in the practical sense. They talk about being careful as it unlucky day or bad luck haunts on you at that day and so forth. I don't know whether its true to believe or not but whenever I hear about friday 13th, it reminds me of the movie "Friday the 13th".

It brings back memories of good old days when I used to be so scared especially after watching the horror movies. Getting scared voluntarily, never stopped me watching those evil, horror movies. I got so addicted at times watching these horror movies whether or not I can sleep that night or go to the bathroom in the pitch dark. I don't know why?! May be I like to be horrified!!

I guess I am cursed to watch horror movies after my first exposure to the all time favorite movie, "THE EVIL DEATH". I watched when I was like 10-11 years old. When you are that young, the horrification totally get on to you. It was horror cum suspense movie which freezes your bone to chill and slithers every one of it in the body every time a shocking scene rolls around. I can still remember it so fresh.

The movie was a total hit. I can vaguely remember the story. There were like 5 friends takes trip to woods and stays at an abandoned house. They encounter all sorts of horror things in that the place one at time and get killed one by one. The movies rolls very slowly revolving around that house fully with some shocking and exhilarating scenes, starting the horrification process first time inside me.

Life changed after that movie. I got immersed into the horror factor and I couldn't able to go alone anywhere especially in the dark. Fear of darkness just glued on to me creating a mental block. I can still feel that block at times to this day. It just hangs in there in my closet. There are lots of sequel to that movie, none of 'em really made a great impact to the audience except Part I and II.

Next one which took on the horror height was "The Omen", another great horror & suspense movie. The story plot is like a kid who has the birthmark "666" (the sign for child of Satan) tries to make the presence in this world opposing Christianity by killing every body who gets to know about his Satanic character. This movie was accolades for its originality and vulgarity to the characters. It had a good story line and nice direction.

"The Exorcist" is another famous and more talked about horror movie at that time. But it failed to impress me as one. With some horror devil characters, its just not really my type of horror movie I guess. I heard some weird stories about the filming of this movie in local theater at chennai. They advertised like whoever watches this movie alone in the theatre can win prizes. Few seems to have taken that risk watching it alone to experience the thrill. Some couldn't take it and close to get an heart attack. Also there are news that many had died watching that movie in a heart attack in other countries.

After that, there were series of movies on evil and horror plot with different versions of vampire and Satan's. Recently like 3years back, I watched a movie named "THE RING". Its was a remake of a Japanese movie. I should say it revitalized the horrification and totally gave a different outlook of the horror movies. Its a movie about taking revenge in a evil way coming out of the TV sets thru the video tape. It gets spread by the video tape. Its a totally wierd one. You should watch it to feel it.

I went to see this movie, the day before my half marathon race and my roommates where out of station. That night, I couldn't sleep along after watching the movie. I tried to sleep with lights and nothing worked. I might got only 2-3 hours of sleep. With little amount of rest, I couldn't run the race effectively and I failed to meet my expected time limit. It always reminds of that horrific day.

Last but not least, Friday the 13th which is not exactly an evil horror but an entertaining slasher/thriller. There were lots of parts to this movie. I don't remember exactly which part I happened to watch. It had a good plot to about taking a revenge against people and lot of them getting killed in the camp ground. It started off the race of many more thrillers like Valentine, Silence of the Lambs etc.,

Evil and Horror goes together and they are meant to scare you!! I don't think there is anything wrong to get scared. So I feel its ok to be scared at this age too.

After all humans are frone to horrification!!

HOW TO PRESENT A GOOD BLOG?

Thank you fellow Suls, Sulekhans or Sulekhites whatever you like to be called. I am amazed by the overwhelming response received and felt the pleasant vibe through all your comments for my previous post, What's a blog all about?(BE A TRUE BLOGGER AND NOT STEALER). Flury of comments & notes kept coming both from newbies and old timers.

I am glad you all agree some way or other that there is a need for a write-up/blog like that one to encourage every bloggers by invoking creativity and help them to deliver something better and strive for the best instead of duplicating articles by replicating from other sites.

Like every good first part, there is always a second part waiting to come. Whether its movie or books, that's the unofficial rule of thumb!! Don't you agree?! I think blog is not an exception. This is going to be a sequel or Part II of the previous one responding to some requests from newbies as well as old timers to give some clear pointers on how to start and present a blog?

I assure you, I won't bore you with the usual crap you read all the time, its fresh as Amma(mom's) idli from the cooker with chutney and sambar(side dishes) to make it interesting to all.

How-to start a blog?

If you are already here and asking that question, you should know that you just boarded the train taking the first step towards an exciting journey of blogging with lot of adventure waiting for you to foresee(only for true bloggers). But you might wonder and feel like lost in a big jungle without any milestones or markers to get to the place which you don't know yet. That's what makes this journey more interesting and thrilling which is the right ticket to get you out of the boredom.

Quite frankly, when I started I really didn't know where I am going. But after a while, it just became an habit and path became so clear. Just do the right thing, by writing what I know the best.

I am neither an English pundit or a legitimate authority to instruct or lecture you anything. I am just like any of you, internet savvy with a background of computer science engg. That doesn't make me qualified to be a good blogger. It just helps me know things better and clear, thats all. I still need to know good or reasonable English to present a good write up. To tell you the truth, I never scored good marks in English grammar in my public schooling where grammar was never a favorite topic.

Why I am telling you all this?! If I can do it, you can do it too and do better than me. All you need is Confidence, Content and Commitment(3 C's) to get good at it.

“There's a difference between interest and commitment. When you're interested in doing something, you do it only when circumstance permit. When you're committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.”

- By an unknown Author (thinkexists.com)

I learnt a terminology/method called CODE in my Toastmaster (A International club for public speaking) exposure.

What is CODE method?

Content - Organization - Delivery - Effectiveness

I use this method pretty much to evaluate any of own my speech or the speeches given by my fellow toastmasters. Its like a guideline to evaluate a speech. The same method very well suits to create and present a good article or blog. Lets deep dive into the specifics of them.

Content

First and foremost, you need a content/topic to make a blog. Don't jump right out immediately looking for one in Google or Internet. Hold on!! Just take a moment to look inside you, around you. Watch closely about the happenings in the world or city or in the neighborhood. You will sure to find hordes of topics like your childhood memories, your hobbies, your habits, your interest, eateria, get-together's, speciality about hometown, your feelings towards the current happenings, your career, your expertise and so forth.

Try to derive a short list, picking only those topics which you are very much passion about. I blogged more about cricket during world cup, my marathon experience, posted about the current city Houston and Texas state. If you think you can tell good stories, go for it. Are you a good thinker and work with words, create short poems and blast it out.

Once you have the ideas or list, jot it down or put it in a notepad. Since Sulekha doesn't have an option to save the draft of the post. You can create an account in blogspot.com and save your topics and put small note under each one of the topic and add-on each time you get material on those topics and save it for later. Once you are ready, just post it in Sulekha.

Organization

Every article/blog should start with a good opening to attract the audience or reader, support the topic with informative body and close with a take way points.

For example, you can open with a positive note or something which everybody is look out to read and learn more. You can add a quote borrowing it from http://www.quotationspage.com or http://www.thinkexist.com/. You can also add some practical jokes or stories which you find it interesting to support your content. You can try putting current news related to your topic as the open and drive the attention. Its nothing wrong to be finicky on choosing the right opening.

Avoid using technical jorgans and acronyms since it won't interest lot of readers.Add-on the blog with facts and factoids in the body to make it more interesting and Close the blog with a summary and call for action or welcoming comments for discussion.

Delivery

This an yet another important aspect in blogging. You should choose the right background and font color combination to make it readable. I remember a blogger(now one of my favorite) when she first started had green background with green letter font. It was really hard to read. People just don't go further after it and nobody bothered to tell you to change it. So watch out and don't send away the readers at the first attempt.

Make it look good by adding para breaks, bold main points or use different colors, underlining important facts all of it makes more interesting to read. One of my pet peeve is grammatical mistakes which I am still working on to fix it. So I am very careful to do the spell check and usage of words before I post it. Try to use different words picking from the sites like http://dictionary.reference.com/wordoftheday/ and try give different feel to your writing instead of being monotonous.

Effectiveness

You might have a good interesting and informative blog but if you don't have good title then nobody is going to knock the door to check it out. Choose a attractive title to create attention of readers tempeting to read your blog. Add pictures accordingly and relatively. Pictures speak way better than the text. Try to use your own pics if not you can get it from internet and don't forget to give credit for the site. Also you can video or audio files to make it more attractive and interesting. I will save the more technical part for the next blog.

This is just yet another way/method to create a blog and its not the only way. I hope I didn't scare you with any technical aspect. You are not compulled to follow this method. CODE method is just the guiding factor for good write-up or a blog. I always try to evaluate my blog to see whether it passes the code method before posting it. Its a good test to improve and deliver good blogs.

To conclude, just don't hesitate to throw out any interesting items you think will intrigue people to read. There are veteran bloggers who talk about various different topics which aren't so informative but they still fun read. Blogging doesn't have to be serious deal but I am sure it should atleast be merriment and interesting for both you and readers.

Blog on. Prepare and present a proper blog, to make your presence a best one in this new paradigm.

INDIA & TENNIS - A quick & interesting analysis...

We just witnessed a blasting performance by Roger Federer, top one seed and current king of grass courts went on a roller coaster ride and decimated his opponent Nadal with his winners and serve's to take away the 5th Wimbledon title in a row adding one more to his belt. Also Venus williams, elder of williams sisters made another mark in the history books by claiming her 4th Wimbledon title coming out from hibernation mode being seeded as 23rd in the world.

After watching these matches for many years, one question keeps boggling my mind. Why don't we see not many tennis players from India or China which are the highest populous nations in the world?!

Tennis, yet another energetic sport that pulls attention and attracts many around the world and glues them to television during grand slams titles. With 4 major championships happening every year to entertain the fans, tennis is one of few sport which brings out real talent from an individual to spotlight the best. There are other leagues, opens or tournaments which takes place around the world and also in our metro cities.

But it doesn't seems to be one of the popular sport with die hard fans like cricket in our country. In fact, its been creating some good impulses around youngsters especially past couple of years. A new generation of fanfare starting to whirl around and follow this sport closely after Sania's Mirza came on board taking the center stage winning some open titles and adding to her crown.

It's getting more visibility and attention nowadays because of the new fan-fare. But its always been a familiar and well known paradigm way before Sania's time. It was way back when I was doing my schooling. I hear lot about Vijay Amirtaraj & Ramesh Krishna who shinned as limelight of Indian Tennis. During those times, doordharshan used to report about their feat in tennis in the news.

Then came, Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi. New generation tennis players adding synergy with their young blood. They been on the center stage since then for quite some time with some victories in Davis cup and other opens playing as singles and partners. But they never had any luck to get the Grand slam titles and taste the essence. Its always been a unreachable feat for our Indians.

With only few people who can be finger numbered to come out of the country to be successful in this sport. It puts us on a uncomfortable spot comparing to other small countries. I even had tough time answering questions by my american collegues. They ask "Why don't I see not many indians in tennis being a populous country?"

If you look at the other side like USA or France, Tennis is a very well known sport and its been taught and trained in almost all the schools. There are tennis courts all around the neighborhood and cities which has easy access to anybody. I even got my hands on the racket and tennis balls, partnered with my colleagues, trying to learn this solo act which has more technical aspect to it.

So what exactly his holding others back to try and triumph this world class tennis ?! It even has good prize money, lot of media coverage and much more. Here are few things which I feel might be

1. Cost

Cost to buy a Racket is not expensive at all. It might cost Rs.1000 or Rs.2000 equal to a cricket bat for one time to get started. Tennis balls are all over the place nowadays. We started playing cricket instead of tennis. So that won't be problem to get hold few. I feel the only problem is hiring a trainer or getting on to a training regiment/facility which might cost fortune sometimes. There is no place to start or practice since not many public schools have tennis courts too. There comes the first hurdle.

2. Training

I do know that there are one or two tennis academies exists in metro-cities but they still are expensive for the middle class family. Only few people could afford to get in there. Hiring trainer is not possible since we don't have big pool of trainers to do personal training. Also there are not many training facilities or tennis court in and around cities to atleast just get started. Only few exists in luxury areas which have limited access to public. So there is a scarcity of training courts and trainers.

3. We tend to relay on the team effort

I feel, this one plays a major role in our mental aspect. I didn't want to speak for all. But I always felt that we tend to lean on others for support especially in sports. We like team sports better than individual sport. We don't want to face the failure alone. We don't want to push hard and challenge ourselves to work alone for successful except its for money. We tend avoid stretching our limits when it comes to sport. We are more comfortable contributing as a team member than be a team itself.

4. More technical than any other sport.

Tennis is one of the most technical sport I ever seen. You have all kinds of returns. You gotta use both backend and forehand to really play a good match. Its too technical for most of us and tough to master unless you have a good trainer to guide it. You have to build your adherline to play for 3-5 hrs. You have to have good physique to run around and beat the hell out of the opponent.

5. Importance to Individual Sports

I don't think, we are trained to give importance to sport acitivities. I think its mainly because of the school system we are acustomted too. We have PT classes twice a week and we do nothing but play team sport or just pass on the time. I ever seen schools giving more importance to Individual sports like they do it here. Also there is not a lot of after school programs to encourage kids to learn things.

Taking above reasons into account, I surely see the reason why we don't see too many players from our country. Its the basic nesseccites which we are missing for us to perform well in the sports department. It should start changing in every schools in every state to give importance to sports activities and make it a compulsory act for a student to take on specialized sport and excel it.

I know we all have the WILL to do it, but just finding the WAY is just isn't that easy.

BE A TRUE CREATIVE BLOGGER NOT A STEALER

This blog came out on the wake of finding few bloggers who is trying to mimic as experts and present blogs by stealing/robbing contents from the Internet. I thought, its about time to put together a blog to create awareness among vivid bloggers in this lively sulekha community to help them identify why they are here and also give them a chance to bring their own talents to the table.

If you been here for long, you already know that there are already "n" number of how-to blogs which came out enumerating steps on how to become a top blogger, how to create blogs, why is somebody blogging, make money in blogging and so forth. But they all missed out on an important point, what is blogging all about?!

What is a blog and why?!

Blog is a weblog. Its a web diary of oneself. It can be about yourself or about the way you feel about the world you encounter. Its can show and share the life you experience. It can portray your thoughts and reflect your feelings in different works like stories, experience essays, travelogues, news or reports.

Its an euphemism to personal notes. Its the place where you come out of the closet without worrying about others and the outcomes. Its all yours and yours only. Its not a cut and paste from others life or work. Its your online personal diary open to public.

Do you prefer, your place taken from the world and replaced by others? Do you like to see your personal diary with a work from others that's copied and pasted?

How do you like somebody stole your Kidney and sell it out without your permission?! Don't you feel that missing part and cry for it. That's how it should be. Its should have own your stamp and impression on the writing whether is a 2 para or junk of information. You should use the knowledge you gathered and gained in the interest to make your own creation.

How do I get recognized as a good blogger?!

"A journey of thousand miles always starts with a single step"
- Lao Tuz

Its my favorite quote. You have to start somewhere with a single step if you want to go place. You have to start scratching the pad first to create your own signature. True creations catch the experts eyesn one day or other. Your work will get recognition, if its worth it. It only needs your heart felt dedication and commitment. Its not an Adam's apple which you can't never able taste. Its an ordinary orange which has easy access door thru your commitment.

1. Pick topics related to you

You can easily find endless number of topics to talk about. If you are well versed in certain area, try to think of ways to present to educate others. For example, if you are nurse, you talk about first aid, CPR etc., You can talk about you, your nostalgia experience, about your work culture, things you like, your surroundings, things you find peculiar, things you find it interesting. Keep your eyes and ears open for news which you learn from TV or online, create your thoughts around it and develop a story.

Once you start building the rapport as a writer/blogger, you automatically find your niche to deliver better blogs. Develop your own trend by expressing views in your own way and experience a magic wand around you via comments from bloggers. If you are using content for other sources like sites or mails, give them credit by mentioned their name or source. Its not your work, don't take credit for it.

2. Set goals and Milestones

You need a goal to take you someplace. With out a beacon, its tough for the boat to get to the shore.

You can try goals like,

a. I should reach the top 250 blogger.

b. Get recognized as a Top blogger in Sulekha.

Goals are long winded at times and might fade away the purpose. Milestones guides a person to reach their Goals successfully.

Set Milestones like

a. Create and deliver atleast a one blog a day.

b. Reach Rank 1000 in 30 days or 500 in 10 days.

c. Get the blog featured in featured list at front page.

3. Track your performance

In Sulekha, you can easily track the performance by the ranks and Points. I would recommend you to follow just the ranks and don't worry about points. Ranks mostly gets calculated for your contribution in certain ways. Make note of the ranks everyday and see it progress every day. You will see it going down every day which really boost your momentum to go further.

4. Learn from other bloggers


Blog has lot to do with learning. Learning from others help you to develop and nurture you in lot of ways to create your own pattern. Basically people learn from their mistakes and more from others so you don't have to reinvent the wheel.

Try to learn the word usage and learn the meanings. Go to www.dictionary.com to find out the new words you never seen used. Find your own new words from sites like http://wordsmith.org/ and try to use it in your creation. This helps to develop your vocabulary and make you a mature blogger.

5. Appreciate fellow bloggers

Its the one other important aspect of blog community. Its a community not a self service forum. You can be a part of the community by belonging to one. You immerse yourself by reading others blog and appreciate their contribution through comments and notes. Encourage to bring out more from them and also thank people who comment your blog, after all we are all humans aspire for appreciations.

By patting others, you are in turn expressing your point on that topic. It helps you to build your own knowledge on that area. Blogging is a give and take media. There is only a thin line between Selfish and Self confidence. Don't be selfish by just expecting comments from others. Build your self confidence and challenge yourself to deliver your best.

What is in it for me?(WIIFM)

We always tend to look for the outcome in whatever we do. That's human nature.Some materialistic and others in differently. No harm in it.

There is a lot in blogging than just writing and commenting. You tend to attract people in your own way. People try to create a picture of you putting together your character and adding face to it. It also helps to relieve your stress by sharing thoughts to others who are virtual indeed.

You meet like minded people and make friends out of them. It also helps to met highly educated people and meet them in person if you get a chance. There are high level of probability to meet a person whom you always looked out in your life as friend or fiance. Who knows?!

There is also the money magic involved in almost all blogging nowadays. If you are in it for just money, I wouldn't recommend its a good way to earn but its reward for your contribution. Blogging should be hobby and not a shabby job.

Be a True blogger by contributing healthy and innovative creations.

Make a difference not just your Presence!!

WIMBLEDON ENDS WITH GRAND FINALE

A Sunday well spent in front of the TV watching one of the great matches in the Wimbledon open. Wimbledon, a camp ground for most of the tennis lovers during this time of the year and euphemism to tennis grass court heaven never fails to impress with its own class and classical atmosphere and some great entertaining tennis.

This year inspite of some heavy down pours which tested patience of certain player.They could able to squeeze in all the matches and get both Men and Women finals on schedule to deliver a good showcase for the tennis audience all over the world.

After a great run and some astonishing tennis for 2 weeks, only 2 players get to ahead to play the grand finale, the championship match for an head-on collision to decide the taker of the grand title. This year first seed Roger Federer faced his upcoming rival second seed Rafel Nadal once again 4th time in last 13 months in the grand slams.

The stage is set for a grand finale for these 2 world class players to deliver great tennis at this finisher. Its going to be a match marked in history whoever wins. If Nadal wins the title, he will be 2nd to win French and Wimbledon in the same year. If Federer takes the cup, it will his 5th continuous Wimbledon equaling the record of Bjon borg(1976-1980).

Federer beat Gasquet in his semi's straight setter to reserve his place in the finals. Nadal who had a restless 7 days run moving forward and Djoknovic injury in the semifinal match got him the ticket to play in the final one. Federer was on a role winning every match comfortably with his powerful backend and precise serve's. On the other hand, Nadal took every match to an extend on his own style winning his opponent with hard work and commitment.

Two best tennis players on the earth, met in this center court for the Grand Finale once again for a decider, just like last year.

First set was a tight as usual both players retaining their game. It went to tie-breaker and federer who has a champion edge took away from Nadal. Nadal came back with great vigor and got the second set for 6-4 equaling the set. Third set, a set which again shows the tough competition with twister went on to another tie breaker. Federer took his advantage winning again and taking a set lead 2-1.

This match really got to into its great moments during the 4set when Nadal came back with force and fierce ameliorating his level to take 4-0 lead in the set. Federer who was never pushed in to this situation before felt the pressure and wasn't happy with the camera decisions at times. He made lot of unforced errors and got finicky on his short by visualizing the fact the match is going on the 5 setter. Nadal really got the game in his grip and held the upper hand at this stage with aggressive returns and phenomenal play. He won the set from Federer 6-2.

Fifth set, the deciding set of the match. It went on tight 2-2 for 4 sets. Suddenly Federer did some errors to gave a slight chance to Nadal with a 2 break points. But Nadal didn't materialize properly and federer got back his game to lead 3-2. Next game Federer seems to win the points over the Nadal serves. He got his first break point since the 3rd set and the second only in this match. Federer took that break point by backend winners and put 4-2 lead by breaking Nadal.

Next set he won it ease with some great serve's to retain the lead 5-2. Nadal served on the last game to stop Federer. But federer played some great winners to force Nadal to deuce. On the 2nd deuce of the 6th game federer broke Nadal and captured his 5th title to kiss his cup.

The match lasted for apx. 3:45 mins to bring out yet another memorable match by thriving rivalry between Federer and Nadal. Its the 3rd longest mens single finals in Wimbledon history and thrilling climax after 2001 mens singles.

Earlier this saturday, Venus williams one of the energtic william sisters made to the finals inspite of being the 23rd seed to fight for her 4th wimbledon title against French young emerging tennis player Bartoli. It was straight setter match.

Venus thrashed Bartoli with her well diversified game plan with good returns and serves. Bartoli who was inspired by Pierce Brosnan presence sent the No1. seed Henin to home in the semi finals. She didn't have enough weapons to stop Venus. She did play great tennis and has enough time left to come back next year for yet another try for the title. This is the first year wimbledon is matched the price money for womens with mens singles champions.

Wimbledon as ever, undoubtedly entertained tennis fans all over world with some great tennis embracing tradition and creating history every year.

The Interpreter - A Good Political Thriller

I happen to watch this movie last week when my friend lended it to me. I like suspense and thriller one's and have my days for political oriented too. This one is a Political Thriller.

Sean Penn(Secret Service Agent) & Nicole Kidman (Interpreter) taking up the lead roles, giving their best as usual.

The main theme of the movie revolves around an Interpreter who works on the UN building. She overhears discussion of an assassination plot and she reports that to the UN Security office after clearing her doubts that its about the African Leader who is going to visit UN build in few days.

The case in turn gets assigned to United State Secret Service who assigns Tobin(Sean) to work with Interpreter Silvia(Nicole).

Most of the film surrounds the investigation of the assassination plot: the efforts to secure the UN building before Zuwanie's arrival (and to find any weapons, explosives or the like that may have been smuggled in), the investigation of Zuwanie's enemies and political opponents, and the investigation of Silvia herself.

As the film progresses, we see Silvia has in the past been involved in a Matoba guerrilla group, that her family was killed by land mines laid by Zuwanie, and even that she was girlfriend to one of Zuwanie's political opponents. Despite Keller considering Silvia a prime suspect, the two grow close as events unfold, and Keller ends up protecting her.

With a good story line and movie run up, it expands and takes us to a roller coaster ride but fails to thrill at the end. Climax is really predictable a bit if you watch it closely.

Overall, the movie is well worth watching on any night with your wife as well(if she is all over thrillers!!)

Plus Points: Story, lead roles, direction

Minus Points: climax seems tobe predictable

Movie Rating:

Music Rating:

Fireworks & Fun - Houstonian 4th July

Usually Houston(USA) weather at this time of year is supposed to be Hot and Humid. But for a change, the last few weeks is been totally different. Its been raining a whole lot and wiping out all the plans for the weekends. I thought its going to be a wash out 4th of July this year.

It rained the whole morning and all the Parades around the city were canceled. I was about to giveup on going to the concert and fireworks tonite. After all, mother nature changed her mind and didn't want spoil so thought it differently. Rain slowly stopped by mid morning and starts to see bright sun rays peeping out of the sky with still some cloudy skies floating around the area.

So I revitalized my idea and decided take my chances to go for tonite's show with my wife and son(his first 4th of July). We got their around 8:15pm and its too late to find a good spot. Its an outdoor theater facing an high up hill and people have to sit in the ground. With water still yet not fully dried, people just didn't care and as most of them came with easy chairs.

Big Crowd like hundreds of people already taken all comfortable spots and happily enjoying the music. We also just joined them by scooting inside the crowd with our own foldable chairs.

Concert podium - long shot

Another view, lots of violins and band. A real nice set from Houston Symphony Orchestra.

Fireworks started at 9:20pm with background music... A missle blasting like color stars...

Some more...

Enjoy the fireworks recorded live - 1:32mins (I couldn't download to sulekha because it seems to be little big so put in YouTube)

My own fireworks at my home. In Texas, you can buy firecrakers only during July 4th and Newyear's eve. I got this artillaries, rockets and crackers, the day before 4th of july. You can only fire them in certain area and my house happens to be in that county. So I celebrated 4th of July with some real firecrackers and fun.

Here the Artillary shell blowing in the sky,

My wife firing sparklers and having fun...

Its yet another Fourth of July with loads fun to add to our memory book. Rain couldn't hold any long and it started right back up last nite and poured it out!!

Fourth of July is always SPECIAL

"I believe in America because we have great dreams - and because we have the opportunity to make those dreams come true."
~Wendell L. Wilkie

Above quote clearly says, why many immigrant steps their foot on to this wonderful country?! Every immigrant who became an American resident has a true story to talk about this great country.

America, a great country has enriched millions of life all around the world and continues to pave his path welcoming many more to its future. We Indians have always found this country a home away home.

It has offered us more than we ever can think of. In my life, I should say "I was reborn and rediscovered" here. I am living the "All American Dream". I put my hands on whatever I can and try to make my marks. I had the WILL to do things and I found my WAY's to do it here. I learned how to Swim like a boy. I enjoyed nature by taking hiking and trekking trips. I never knew that I can run 45kms and can do marathons.

I learnt to do snow skiing and Ice Skating. Dancing was never my passion until I came to America. I took dancing lessons for Ballroom and Western dances like Waltz, Swing, Rumbha, Mambo etc., I earned hordes of good American friends who consider me as part of their family which I never imagined in my life.

I also nurtured my habit to never forget to do some charity and give back to community as JFK said, "Ask not, what the country can do for you, but ask what you can for the country".

Life has changed so much for all good reasons. I vouch that every Indian will definetly has a story of his/her own similiar tp me. The main essence from all these, America has everything to offer and American people makes a true difference standing behind this great nation.

Fourth of July is not just another day for people of America. Its a Great American 4th of July. A day to celebrate the country and the people who makes the country. People participate in parades with great enthusiasm, have barbecue parties in their backyard with their friends, take trip to beaches, celebrate watching fireworks all across the country and enjoy with proud and pride of being an American or living in America.

Fourth of July has always been a special day for me. Not just because I am in America, its also my birthday. I always celebrated it. After getting here, I am celebrating with everybody in here. I never missed a July 4th without Fireworks. I saved some great memories of watching fireworks all across America.

I have seen Fireworks on top of Niagara falls(classy one) and eye catching light show of the falls at night. Its real cool to watch. Fireworks on Charles River in Boston mixed with live music was so ravishing like music fountain in Mysore Brindhavan garden.

We just missed the big Parade in main streets of Washington DC but happen to catch the mother of all fireworks. It was extravagancy and spectacular with various different patterns including flags and hearts. It almost lasted for more than half hour. We also seen Columbus City Fireworks, Fireworks in Austin,Texas Capital.

This 4th of July, I am planning to buy some firecrackers since its allowed in our part of city and crack it in the night. Also we are planning be celebrate by watching Symphony in the open theatre with fireworks at the end.

I am a proud INDIAN and a passionate AMERICA resident to breath the air of this wonderful free nation, AMERICA.

Happy 4th of July!!