Tanvanga October Issue

TANVANGA October 2017 Issue 4

Onam This is Halloween!

Omg! Burgers Cocktails A Fairy-tale Wedding in Bali

Meet AYUSH KEJRIWAL Using Fashion to Bring About a Social Change

S P E CI AL T H A NK S T O A Y U SH K E J R IWAL , S U C HI TR A M E NON , F O O D & D R I NK S H OWCASE A N D A N O OD J A LEEL F O R T H E IR C O NT RI BUT IONS

TANVANGA Magazine

CREATED BY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF HARSHA MARIAM THOMAS ART DIRECTOR HARSHA MARIAM THOMAS COVER PHOTO CREDIT AYUSH KEJRIWAL PHOTOGRAPHY ¤ SUCHITRA MENON ¤ ANOOD JALEEL ¤ AYUSH KEJRIWAL ¤ FOOD & DRINK SHOWCASE ¤ HARSHA MARIAM THOMAS ¤

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Welcome Readers!

Thank you for coming back to another issue of Tanvanga. The way you have supported, shared and read the issues means the world to me.

Dedicating this issue to my dearest sister-in-law Nisha Roose in the hope that she will take up her passion for writing a bit more serious and wishing her the very best.

The Edition covers all about Onam. The 10 days of beautiful flower arrangements

by Dr.Suchitra Menon leading to the day of Onam. Traditions and origin of Halloween... Meet the U.K based designer Ayush Kejriwal breaking the stereotypes of size, shape and colour as portrayed by the fashion industry. We’ve got some OMG! Burgers for the meat lovers and shake it up with some cocktail. Finally taking you to a whimsical not-so-traditional happily ever wedding in Bali is the one and only wanderlust bitten Anood Jaleel.

So get comfy with a cup of coffee, tea or better yet a glass of wine and have a good read!

Lots of Love

P.S. TANVANGA WOULD LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT OUR WORK. YOU CAN TELL US THROUGH THE SOCIAL MEDIA OR SEND AN EMAIL!

INSIDE A long post about another Un-Onam 8 Presenting: The Ten Days of Onapookkalam 10 Know: Onam in Kerala 23 Meet our Designer Ayush Kejriwal 27 A Fairy-tale Wedding in Bali 61 Know: Halloween 65 You are served: Burgers 73 Happy hours: Cocktail Time 78 Something Sweet 86 Easy Read 88

On the cover: Article on Ayush Kejriwal.

Photograhy/Stylist/Hair/Make-up Ayush Kejriwal.

Model wearing Ayush Kejriwal Design

A Long Post About another Un-Onam Words Nisha Roose

It's night-time and we've just finished eating the leftovers from the afternoon's Onasadya. The Nilavilakku has long flickered out, the flowers of the Athapoo have dulled.

The scene is kind of melancholic as even the movies that were streaming non-stop on TV have all come to an end.

"Mamma, who is the man with the umbrella?" My elder one queries. "He is Pinarayi Vijayan" my younger one obliges with an answer. "Don't be dumb, Pinarayi Vijayan is the Chief Minister of Kerala." pat came the well-informed retort. "See, there are two Pinarayi Vijayans - one old and one new" well, theoretically allowable as the right answer, given that he is only 5. Normally, I butt in and contribute my bit, but today I'm out of it, feeling drab.

My mind wanders to my childhood, my Ammachi's home - the big commotion as all of us cousins reach the place almost simultaneously, the Oonjals already tied on the tree branches by our country cousins, the Pookkalams that are resplendent with fresh flowers from thickets and bushes around and not the kind you buy from the wholesale market, and most of all, Ammachi's gentle voice as she welcomes us.

Today, the pesticide laden flowers lay shrivelled up under the fan in our apartment marble floor. No swings, no Kummatti kali, no atrocious fun when all the brats of the family get together, and no smell of love that emanates only from Ammachi and Appachan's home.

My younger one wanted to dress up as "Kerala People", go to the studio and snap pictures. But by the time my husband came back from the office, it was late. He works for a multinational firm and his bosses definitely don't care much for Onam.

I wish time and circumstances would let us go to Kerala during Onam at least once, so that my kids can soak their five senses in Onam, can breath in Onam, so it will forever run in their veins., before they grow too old to appreciate the simple things in life, the kind of things nostalgia is made of.

It's late in the night, this post is long, and I'm afraid I am ranting. But my mind is like my profile picture, a couple of forlorn “Thumbappookkal" against a gloomy backdrop. I wish I could be like my cover picture, swinging away in the Oonjal, pretending to be the "Onathumbi", flitting among the blooms.

But for now, I must sign out, and go break up the brawl happening on top of the Athappoo, sending the flowers flying and reducing my hardwork of two hours to mulch. The elder one might pull out a tuft of the younger one's hair and the younger one might scratch the elder one's eyes out.

Hmm... who shall I whack first...?

The Ten Days of Onapookkalam

Words and photos by Dr. Suchitra Menon, General Medical Practitioner at The Chantry Health Group, UK

Suchitra, when she is not prescribing and diagnosing her patients, she is all heart and soul in her garden bringing nature to her home. The flower arrangements created by Suchitra has a uniqueness to the otherwise traditional Athapoo with her signature garden florals. Each floral carpet has been arranged over the 10 days of Onam and is a piece of art to treasure. The flower arrangements are a glut of envyinspiring images that look effortless and perfect, to Suchitra this is her stress buster!

Onam falls in the month of Chingam, which is the first month according to the Malayalam Calendar. The celebrations mark the Malayalam New Year, are spread over ten days, and conclude with Thiruvonam. The ten days are sequentially known as Atham, Chithira, Chodhi, Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketa, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradom and Thiruvonam. The first and the last day are particularly important in Kerala and to the Malayalee communities elsewhere.

The Atham day is marked with the start of festivities at Vamanamoorthy Thrikkakara Temples (Kochi). This Vishnu temple is considered as the focal centre of Onam and the abode of Mahabali, with the raising of the festival flag. Parades are held, which are colourful and depict the elements of Kerala culture with floats and tableaux.

Day One - Atham

Atham (August 25, 2017) -- is when mythical King Mahabali is believed to have started preparing to come back and visit his kingdom. People begin the day with an early bath, followed by prayers, and the creation of floral arrangements (pookalam) on the ground in front of homes to welcome him.

Traditionally, the pookalams are completed with ten rings, each representing a Hindu god. The colors are chosen to please each god, and only yellow flowers are used on Atham for the first layer of the pookalam. However, these days, more importance is given to how elaborate and striking the design is. A grand procession, Athachamyam, marks the start of Onam celebrations near Kochi.

Day Two – Chithira Chithira (August 26, 2017) -- two more layers are added to the pookalams, using mostly orange and creamy yellow flowers. People also visit temples to seek blessings.

Day Three – Chodhi Chodhi (August 27, 2017) -- is a fun-filled day that marks the start of shopping for Onam. People begin buying new clothes, jewelry, and gifts.

Day Five – Anizham Anizham (August 29, 2017) -- snake boat races kick-off across the state.

A mock race is held at Aranmula as a rehearsal for the race that's held there after the main day of Onam.

Photo Suchitra Menon

Day Six - Thriketa Thriketa (August 30, 2017) -- people start visiting their families and fresh flowers continue to be added to pookalams.

Day Seven – Moolam

Moolam (August 31, 2017) -- the state is beautifully decorated.

Day Eight – Pooradam

Pooradam (September 1 and 2, 2017) -- The day starts with the ritual installation of pyramid-style clay statues, known as Onathappan, in the center of pookalams. They represent king Mahabali and Lord Vamana (the fifth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who sent Mahabali to the underworld but allowed him to visit his kingdom once a year during Onam).

By now, the pookalams have greatly grown in size and complexity of design.

Day Nine - Uthradom First Onam/Uthradom (September 3, 2017) -- King Mahabali is believed to arrive in Kerala on this day. It's a jubilant occasion when people rush to complete their Onam shopping and the cleaning of their homes. It's considered to be an auspicious day for buying fresh fruit and vegetables.

Day Ten - Thiruvonam Second Onam/Thiruvonam (September 4, 2017) -- the main Onam celebrations occur on this day, when King Mahabali is said to visit people's homes. Homes are spic and span, finished pookalams are elaborate, new clothes are worn, a gather to enjoy an elaborate vegetarian feast known as Onam Sadya or Onasadya.

Photos Suchitra Menon

ONAM IN KERLAA An ancient Hindu festival celebrating harvest in the Southern part of India is Kerala. Onam is considered a cultural annual event and is celebrated by the Malayali diaspora around the world. Though a Hindu festival, the non-Hindu communities of Kerala also celebrate and participate in the festivities of Onam. The celebrations include Vallam Kali (boat races), Pulikali (tiger dances), Pookkalam (flower arrangement), Onathappan (worship), Onam Kali, Tug of War, Thumbi Thullal (women's dance), Kummati kali (mask dance), Onathallu (martial arts), Onavillu (music), Kazhchakkula (plantain offerings), Onapottan (costumes), Atthachamayam (folk songs and dance), among other celebrations. It is the beginning of the New Year for the Malayali Hindus. The festival has its significance in the legends of the Hindu mythology – the story of a great and most wisest king Mahabali who ruled Kerala.

All photo courtesy Dr.Suchitra Menon

The Legend of Mahabali According to the Hindu mythology Mahabali was the great great grandson of a Brahmin sage named Kashyapa , the great grandson of the demonic dictator, and the grandson of Vishnu devotee, son of the demon dictator Hiranyakashyap. Prahlada, despite being born to a demonic Asura father who hated Lord Vishnu, rebelled against his father's persecution of people and worshipped Lord Vishnu.

Hiranyakashyap tries to kill his son Prahlada, but is slained by Lord Vishnu in his Narasimha avatar, Prahlada is saved.

Prahlada's grandson Mahabali came to power by defeating the gods and taking over the three worlds. The defeated Devas approached Lord Vishnu for help in their battle with Mahabali. Lord Vishnu refused to join

the gods in violence against Mahabali, because Mahabali was a good ruler and his own devotee. He, instead, decided to test Mahabali's devotion at an opportune moment. Mahabali, after his victory over the gods, declared to perform Yajna (homa sacrifices) and grant anyone any request during the Yajna. Lord Vishnu assumes the form of a dwarf boy called Vamana and approached Mahabali.

The king offered that the boy could request anything – gold, cows, elephants, villages, food - he wished.

The boy responds saying the “One must not seek more than one needs, and all he needs is the property right over a piece of land that measures three paces�. Mahabali agreed.

Vamana then grew and grew and grew till he covered everything Mahabali ruled over in just two paces. For the third pace,Mahabali offered himself, an act which the divine deity Vishnu accepted as proof of Mahabali's devotion. In return, Lord Vishnu granted him a boon, to which Mahabali asked that he visit once every year the lands the people he once ruled. This marks the festival of Onam, as a reminder of King Mahabali’s virtuous rule and humility in keeping his promise before the Lord Vishnu.

The last day of Mahabali's stay is remembered with a nine-course vegetarian Onasadya feast.

The Onasadya (feast) is a very indispensable part of Thiruvonam and almost every Keralite attempt to either make or attend one. The Onasadya reflects the spirit of the season and is traditionally made with seasonal vegetables such as yam, cucumber, ash gourd and so on.

The feast is served on plantain leaves and consists of nine courses, but may include over two dozen dishes, including (but not limited to banana chips, Sharkaraveratti (Fried pieces of banana coated with jaggery), Pappadams, various vegetable dishes such as Injipuli,

Thoran, Mezhukkupratti Kalan, Olan, Aviyal, Sambar, Dal served along with a small quantity of ghee, Erisheri, Rasam, Puliseri (also referred to as Velutha curry), Kichadi and Pachadi (its sweet variant), Moru (Curd with water), Pickles both sweet and sour, buttermilk, coconut chutney. The feast ends with a series of dessert called Payasam (a sweet dish made of milk, sugar, jaggery and other traditional Indian savories) eaten either straight or mixed with a ripe small plantain.

The curries are served with rice, usually the 'Kerala Matta' parboiled rice preferred in Kerala.

Meet the Designer ____________________________ AYUSH KEJRIWAL

“ONCE I HAVE AN IMAGE IN MY HEAD I HAVE TO BRING IT TO LIFE” Designer / Creative Stylist / Fashion Curator Ayush Kejriwal challenging stereotypes like dark skinned women can’t wear bright colors, widows can’t wear colors, hiding our imperfections and that is exactly what his Instagram posts strive to tell us. Ayush is using fashion to bring about a social change. A charming story teller through his sarees and designs bring these stories to life which is every piece a work of art and each has an enchanting and whimsical story to tell. Aysuh is believes in his creations and doesn’t care much about opinions. Criticism has no place in his life. Though people were apprehensive and not supportive of his business strategy and vision he chose to ignore them. He pursued in what he believed making him the successful designer he is today.

___________________________________________________ Words and Photos: Ayush Kejriwal Instagram @designerayushkejriwal Email designerayushkejriwwal@hotmail.com

AYUSH KEJRIWAL ______________________ “I always get asked about where and what I get inspired by? Well this is what inspires me. Beautiful memories of my mum and aunts dancing and laughing at family weddings. I was and always am mesmerized by their stylish sarees and happy faces. It's always at the back of my mind and I constantly try to bring those memories back to live.

Style is happiness!�

MY DESIGN STORY ❤️ Design for me is not merely a decorative act, it's a focused fanaticism to create value. My brand is relevant because my "value proposition "is less reliant on attributes of product and service features, and more on the emotional connections and experiences my customers have through their interactions and associations with my enterprise. Creating these “experiences”, and the value they offer people, is the result of the strategic and creative process of DESIGN that I go through on a day to day basis. In a world of growing complexity and abundant choice, design is the great differentiator. Good design is a value generator. Everywhere one looks in the marketplace there is revolution and disintegration. Wave after wave of technological change and ubiquitous choice comes upon us more rapidly, engulfing us, confusing us more profoundly. Brands struggle to keep pace with disruptive forces that are reshaping the manner in which they innovate new value in this so-called new economy, I do my best to avoid this. I feel good design is not a slave to fashion or trends it's eternal and untouchable. Design is an essential thinking skill that must be mastered as a strategic business imperative throughout the entire enterprise. That's precisely what I aim to do, it's to create pieces with good robust design with a compelling style quotient , fads like fashion and trends have no place in my business. My Brand is about my love affair with design and style.

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THIS IS MY STYLE. MY BODY. MY SKIN. MY WORLD. Style has a much bigger voice than its perhaps recognised. At times it has allowed itself to be trivialised even scandalised to a certain extent though I think it has the power of becoming an incredibly strong voice for change.

Style surpasses colour, size , body type or any prejudices for that matter.

Stylish people are imaginative, they have a love and understanding of design and a desire to see things that are not there. In any culture the perception of beauty is manipulated. Who decided that to be considered beautiful one had to be slim, fair, not be bald or have scanty hair, have no blemishes or scars , be tall, have no bingo wings or stretch marks? Who came up with these notions? We did, each and every one of us is responsible for harnessing these notions and letting them become a part of our DNA. It's time that this comes to a stop. I refuse to adhere to your rules, I refuse to look at beauty in the way you describe it. I refuse to follow your rules, I refuse to be a part of your society and I refuse to not be 'ME'. THIS IS MY STYLE. MY BODY. MY SKIN . MY WORLD

THERE IS BEAUTY IN IMPERFECTIONS! In most cultures beauty is associated with perfection. I wonder why? The obsession with being perfect is quite scary. I see people doing everything they possibly can to look like someone , become something they are not; hoping that is what will ultimately make them look beautiful. However, the fact of the matter is the more they try to be perfect the less natural they will look which will make them even less attractive and ultimately less beautiful. We are all beautiful in our own way, it’s the little imperfections that we have which actually makes us special. For instance a mole on the side of a cheek, a scar on the temple, a bit of fat on the bingo wings, thinning hair on top of the scalp, a birth mark on the collar bone or anything else that is uniquely ours. These quirks are what makes us special and to me they are not imperfections they are our special attributes. I never ever try to hide anything even when I am shooting with models, I always try to work with what's in front of me. We don't need to hide our imperfections, they are a part of us and make us who we are. I want you all to do one thing, please tag a friend in the comment section of this post and share one imperfection that you have which you are proud of.

I have a chicken pox mark right in full view of my forehead and I am proud of it !

Bengal Handloom cottons.

Block printed by hand and finished with a vintage dual shaded silver and gold lumpi border. Contrasting Maharani motif blouses.

I AM QUITE DARK , DO YOU HAVE SOMETHING FOR ME? Many a times I get messages asking me to suggest something for someone who is dark skinned. It breaks my heart when people choose not to wear something they want because they feel they can't due the insecurities they have about their bodies. I feel one can look beautiful in anything as long as they are confident and happy. The most gorgeous coloured flowers of all sorts grow on dark brown soil and they look stunning.

Nature doesn't feel shy from experimenting with colours then why should we? Society, people's opinion or Bollywood celebrities should not dictate what we wear. I am a designer but I have never thought about skin colours when making clothes. I wear all colours , yes I like some more than others but that's not because I feel I can't wear a certain colour because of my skin tone it's simply a matter of preference. I ask all you lovely people to rise above this prejudice and embrace who you are.

Style is about being true to your core, accepting who you are, celebrating all your assets, sticking to your guns, not taking no for an answer and last but not the least loving yourself. Let's celebrate colours together with joy. Be stylish, Be you.

SHE IS A WIDOW SHE CAN'T WEAR THAT! Few weeks ago , a lovely mother ordered a gorgeous blush pink saree to wear for her son's wedding from me. Shortly after she received it she sent me a message thanking me. Not long after that I get a message from her son saying that she should not have bought that considering she is a widow he would prefer her to wear something white! I was heartbroken and livid at the same time. To avoid causing any issues for her I did let them choose another white saree and let her keep the pink one without any cost as did not have the heart to take it back đ&#x;˜˘.

Who said women who have lost their husbands have no right to enjoy colours?

What an awful son! I am disgusted. Every single one of us can wear what we like irrespective of who we are or what this so called society says. My heart goes out to that lovely women who will now be attending a wedding in a white saree because we let her down. I am ashamed and we all should be for letting these baseless cultural rules fester. Please please please let's not take away colour from people and make them more unhappy. Colours can help relieve grief, let's help them heal. This is not a post to make sales , if I can reach out to one more son , daughter or any other wretched soul like that man and get to bring some colour to a woman's life my job is done. Very sad indeed ��. My mum is a widow and I could kill anyone who would stop her from wearing colours!

“HAPPY PEOPLE ARE MY INSPIRATION�

Indian weddings are such fun! Not only because they are full of life and colours, but also because they bring out the best and the worst in people. Whenever I go to a wedding I simply place myself in a quiet corner with shit loads of food and a small sketchbook and pen. The fun of seeing ladies walking in their finest clothing and jewellery is unbeatable. You can always divide them into the following categories - the ones who only wear very well known, sought after, expensive, Bollywood endorsed designers ; then you have those ladies who love what the well-known designers do but are very frugal and resourceful and somehow manage to replicate the designer pieces all be it they look really bad and are very distasteful, but hey it floats their boat and they are delusional. And then you have the third category of ladies who don't give a damn about who is wearing what and walk in wearing something that is special to them. What they wear could be from a known designer or it could be from a small shop in Chandani Chowk, you just can't tell . It's because what they wear does not define them, it's their grace and confidence with which they carry themselves makes them look a million dollars and it is this third group that I get most inspired by! It's so easy to spot such wonderful, confident , independent, beautiful women. They inspire me! I always think about them when I am designing and styling. Every piece that I bring to you is rather special, to me they are all very beautiful and priceless. No matter how expensive the garment is if you do not feel good in it , it can never make you look beautiful. That is what exactly I do, unless something really brightens me up I do not bring it to life. That is why I cannot stick to trends as everything that is sought out in the fake world of fashion does not appeal to me. It does not make me happy, and anything that does not make me happy will not feature in my collection. I have said it before stylish people are happy and happy people are my inspiration, just like the ladies in this picture.

I DON'T DO FASHION , IT'S NOT MY STYLE! If I speak honestly then I have to say I do struggle in this industry at times. It's very fast paced, fickle, ruthless and at times I find it completely soulless. For me to survive here I have to completely detach myself, and when I do that the magic happens. Not having any formal qualification and training in the world of design can be a blessing in disguise, at least in my case I am certain it is! I have always worked with visions, I see something , anything that I like and I start dreaming about it , and once I have an image in my head I have to bring it to life. I really do enjoy that, it's quite liberating as I am working to bring something that exists in my head to reality. There are no rules when it comes to that, I can do whatever I want and that can only be fun, wouldn’t you agree? I get loads of criticism from some who think my work has no uniqueness, some think it's quite old school and boring other even accused me of copying well known big A listed designers and some think what I do is repetitive. I always have a wee chuckle to myself, the fact that you are noticing my work to make a comparison or critique it must mean that something in what I am doing is worth observing and that tells me I must be doing something right.

The thing is when we do things to please our soul and for our own happiness , criticism does not play any part in how we feel - and that is precisely what happens with me. For instance the Mem - Sahib blouse you see in this picture was ridiculed by a few of you, and that is ok, not everything has to be liked by everyone.

I personally love this look, I have an old coffee table book which is about Palaces in India , and in that book there is particular picture which shows a Maharani from the early 1900 s sitting on a chair in a similar set up, that's where I got the vision from. I love this picture very much, in my eye its perfect! And the Mem - Sahib blouse is extremely stylish and only the very confident amongst you can pull it off.

My style is not a slave to fashion, and yours' shouldn’t be either!

“I LOVE ME MORE” There is one thing that I have never done and that is to be something that I am not only to be liked and that translates in my design style and business too. I am customer facing and that involves in me coming in contact with a lot of people every day. I am always very direct, the reason being I don't know any another way to be. I try my best to provide all the necessary information that is requested in the most succinct way that is possible and in a simple language without any unnecessary jargon.

I have always believed I am not doing anyone a favour by selling something and no one is doing me a favour by buying something from me - it's economics , it's simple barter and there is no reason for either parties to think as if they are doing anyone a favour, no one is in indispensable and everyone has options! Yes I am direct; yes I am straight forward; yes I give short answers; yes I don’t offer any discounts; yes I am extremely proud of what I do; yes I do not grovel to close a sale; yes I refuse to sell to people who I think are disrespectful to me or are wasting my time; yes I challenge anyone who is malicious; yes I fight for what I believe is right ; yes I do things my way and break the norm and finally yes I am bold enough to voice my opinions ! If that's arrogance well so be it! I am arrogant and I will continue to be so. I am not here to be liked or make friends. I am here to tell a story, if that story is appreciated and liked I will be very pleased if not that's ok too! I am not here to quench anyone else's passion but my own. I love what I do and put my heart and soul into it, as a human being there are times when I will make mistakes and when I do I will hold my hands up and apologise but one thing I will never do is change who I am just to fit in or to increase my sales revenue. What you think of me is not relevant , how my works make you feel is more important. I am here to empower people, challenge prejudices, change mind-sets and fulfil my passion. I love you all and appreciate your custom but I love me more❤️

Sarees that touch your soul ❤️ A gorgeous candy pink embroidered Benarsi Patola!

STYLING DIARIES I love experimenting with things, it's one of my most favourite things to do. I have a lot of clients who wear head scarves and often ask me about styling it with a saree. While planning my recent shoot I thought why don't I try using a headscarf for one my looks and this is the result. Now please remember I have never worked with an headscarf and there might be a lot of technical errors in the way I have used it, but that is not the point. This is just my take on styling , nothing more nothing less - so please refrain from giving this any religious connotations what so ever. The saree you see here are both in muted shades with a touch of gold, it benarsi spun silk with zari motifs and border. I have teamed them with my embroidered pre-stitched Mem- Sahib blouses and I have matched the scarves with the blouses to give it some consistency. I have used a small bindi and a nose pin to bring the whole look together. The challenge was to not let the head scarf over power everything else and I think to a certain extent I have managed to overcome that. I like this harmony, it's enchanting and has a whimsical charm to it. It almost takes me back in time, like an old film developed in colour.

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Styling Diaries

I am always totally consumed by what I do and it's no different when working on a shoot. Since I have never studied designing or worked in the industry half the time I have no clue, I just do what pleases me. I have a vision in my head and all I do is try to bring that to life. It's never about perfection when I am shooting, I don't fret about the small things like creases in the saree, scars on the body, a bit of smudged lipstick, safety pins in view etc., I mean why should I, the clothes I make are real , they are to be worn by real people and in reality nothing is perfect so why shouldn't my shoots portray reality. In the latest shoot I have pushed the boundaries a tad bit more, I have attempted to show common women having fun , she could be a mother, a breadwinner, a home maker, an artist or she could simplly be a socialite but most importantly she is happy with her being and is confident. And that is what I have aimed to showcase. There is no gimmicks it just showcases my perception of beauty. It's how I look at women and not everyone has to like what I am showing but I do hope people will try to look at things differently and be a bit more forgiving. It has taken over 6 months of intense planning to bring this to life. It was a very tiring day but we all had so much of fun and I absolutely love the result , if I may say so! Here is a wee sneak peek from behind the scene, I do hope you like what you see so far.��

MY DESIGN ETHOS The fashion industry maybe on a continual search for the shock of the new in the quest for something romantic, empowering or simply more breathtakingly beautiful than what has gone before, but it is not immune to the vagaries to the outside world. Hence I have always stuck to what has been long gone and forgotten. I find beauty in what is discarded, there is poetry in old vintage styling and so much of love and nostalgia that I think it is a heinous crime to look for inspiration elsewhere. I think the style business has to be logical, rational and most importantly wearable! Most times I do not allow myself the luxury of waiting for inspiration, the birth of a new collection is fascinating but at the end it always is about sitting with tons of fabric, prints, cut pieces, embellishments, a white sheet of paper and design. I like to make clothes that are quiet, clean and spare. Understated clothes that needs no concepts or gimmicks to sell it. I design for love with love.

I feel good design is always based on solid principles and an uncompromising vision. Self -belief is important because if one ever wants to do anything new or innovative one has to bring those ideas to life against a lot of opposition, you almost have to be borderline crazy with an unquenchable radical dedication to getting your ideas to life without compromising your vision. It can be disheartening at times when people don't share my vision but in some ways it makes me more determined to make my ideas work. I constantly seek out and share innovative ideas, viewpoints, processes and technologies so that I never stop learning; I constantly ask ‘why’ to understand the purpose, cause and belief behind every decision; I immerse myself in my customer's world so I can create thoughtful, human and elegant experiences that affect everyone.

A STYLISH STATEMENT MAKING

Taking about styling boldly, I immensely enjoy playing with clashing colours and bold prints. When I was in India earlier this year I picked up 10 vintage benarsi sarees from a few shops which I made into readymade blouses ( as in the pic ). There is something about these blouses that I really like, I wanted them to stand their ground without being compromised. The most ideal thing to do would be to pair these striking blouses with an understated non - over powering saree, but I did not want to do that. So I decided to pair them with contrasting Kanjiverams and I am so glad I did as the effect this creates is rather beautiful. It goes beyond all reasoning to have two bold statements pieces in one look but for some reason I like it and I would not change a thing. Even though both the blouse and the saree are very bold they somehow co-exist beautifully, the effect that it creates is spell bounding. I love the black against the dark peach and the gold that runs through both the saree and blouse bringing the whole look together. Also, I guess this is great value for money , as the blouse can be used with so many other styles to create numerous looks and the saree can be worn with a different blouse to make it look completely different so technically you get around 5 outfits for the price of one and that can only be good! These two together are a match made in heaven, sometimes you need to just do what you feel is right and styling is all about experimenting with what works for you, I think them two together create an alluring magic with a vintage charm!

Patan's Patola is a Labour of Love Patola sari is a lifetime investment that endures for over 100 years! Besides the unique feature of the double ikat weave, the finished cloth is identical on the obverse and reverse. #Patan is only one of three regions in the world that produce double #Ikat fabric, the most complicated of all textile designs, Tenganan village in Bali and Okinawa in Japan being the other two. Amongst these, Patan alone enjoys the pride of weaving the longest measure of the material – a divinely beautiful 6 yards of unyielding labour! Textile connoisseurs consider patola as reflective of perfection in weaving because if even a single thread is displaced, the resulting design would be warped. The process of producing a patola piece is extremely complex and time-consuming, requiring a blend of mathematical precision and creativity. The design to be woven is first drawn on graph paper and then copied onto the yarn. Narikunjar, ratanchawk, phul bhat, butta bhat, navaratna are some of the most popular patola patterns but changing times bring with them contemporary flavours. Historically speaking the art of double ikat patola weaving goes back several centuries as evidenced by paintings in Ajanta caves. Patola weavers known by the surname Salvi were patronised by Kumarpal the Solanki ruler who would offer daily worship at the temple, sporting a new patola outfit each day.

While patola, undoubtedly enjoys a niche market and every piece is a made-to-order gorgeous splendour, it is equally true that the art is struggling for survival! The art which takes 8-10 years to learn and perfect, is laborious and time-consuming, has a restricted market, and involves an inordinately long payback time. These factors deter the younger generation from pursuing it. I love Patola sarees to the moon and back, they are absolutely beautiful!

'Kalavati', a quintessential black and gold benarsi saree with a vintage charm.

Anandi

Pink and gold organza kanjiveram .

Pure ��

For purchases email me at designerayushkejriwal@hotmail.com or what's app me on 00447840384707 đ&#x;™?đ&#x;˜Š We ship WORLDWIDE.

‘Komolika’ Every woman needs a black and gold saree, and Komolkia is a sure contender. A luxurious black and gold kanjiveram with a striking liquid gold border. I have styled in here with my ' Gherua ' pre-stitched embroidered blouse but you can pair it with anything. There is something magical about the blank and gold saree with the orange and white embroidered blouse, it's like a match made in heaven! When I look at Komolika she steals my heart and refuses to return it â?¤ď¸?

For purchases email : designerayushkejriwal@hotmail.com or what's app me on 00447840384707 đ&#x;™?đ&#x;˜Š We ship WORLDWIDE.

‘Chia’ A muted mauve and gold spun silk benarsi saree teamed with the ever so gorgeous pre-stitched embellished Mem - Sahib blouse, Chia is a class apart. I love how the muted colours all come together singing along a song of love. Chia has stolen my heart!

For purchases email me at designerayushkejriwal@hotmail.com or what's app me on 00447840384707 đ&#x;™?đ&#x;˜Š We ship WORLDWIDE.

'Mishti' My take on a quintessential lal paar (red border) Bengal handloom saree. These are handblock printed and finished with antique lumpi borders. I have teamed them with navy 'Maharani' motif blouses and Afghani jewellery. Mishti stops me in my tracks, does she have the same impact on you ?

For purchases email me at designerayushkejriwal@hotmail.com or what's app me on 00447840384707 đ&#x;™?đ&#x;˜Š We ship WORLDWIDE.

MY BRAND ETHOS I believe my brand promotes the importance of being both real and realistic. Brands normally categorise themselves by provenance and use design to project their own interpretation. My brand however, presents an eclectic mix of different styles and influences from an array of subjects. I believe that it's possible to appropriate other stuff and make it your own and that is precisely what I try to do. The effect this creates is compelling, it feels familiar but fresh, not something sanitised and bland. I recognize that people are more design literate and have a growing sensibility to how things look and feel and hence I have taken the liberty to add richness and depth through design along with a bit of soul. I hope my brand appeals to real people who appreciate art, craft and design. I do believe I cater to a niche audience who are very stylish not fashionable. I offer high end rustic style with a bit of twist and lots and lots of love.

My brand is not about perfection, my clothes are not made for fashion models , I get inspired by real people and reality is never perfect, I am not perfect and my pictures will never be perfect.

They are imperfect and there is a lot of beauty in imperfection that can only be appreciated by a beautiful soul.

I would like to believe that my brand offers you the holy grain of timeless classics and uncomplicated clothes that embodies the modern uncongenial women. The idea is to set a standard for the exercise of retrain. My clothes always have the same focal point, and that is the person who is wearing it. They are never designed to overpower the person wearing them. For me reductivism has been a means to progress and innovate. I have tried blurring the line between couture and high-end ready -to-wear and that is where I think the future is. In my head my brand delivers clothes that are theatrical, spectacular and designed for optimum visual effect.

Mind you, this is how I feel about it, I am sure some of you may disagree!

'Laboni' : Ek Prem Katha She has been waiting for ' Prashant Babu' for 8 years. When Laboni got married to Prashant she thought they would live happily until the day she died. Little did she know that Prashant would leave her and go to London to pursue his dream job. Laboni, was not a realist, whilst everyone around her believed Prashant would never come back home, Laboni continued to wait. Every year on 20th June she would dress up in the same red saree that she wore on her wedding day; she would leave her long hair open , that's how Prashant liked her and wear a red bindi to personify her love for Prashant.

Laboni would be full of hope on this day every year, she would dance in hope and joy patiently look out of the window hoping that the love of her life might just turn up this year. She has been wiating for 8 long years. Will her wait end this year?

Chotirani and Maharani : Ek Adhuri Kahani Maharani had been married to Raja Puran Singh for 8 years when one day suddenly he walked in the palace with Chotirani as his second wife. Maharani was a bit shaken but not surprised she had known about Raja Puran Singh's affair for a few years now but had chosen to ignore it and had never spoken about it. Maharani was unable to give the kingdom a Prince that the Raja so badly wanted, they both had tried but somethings were never meant to be. Raja loved Mharani nonetheless, but when he met Chotrani at the Royal Club for a charity gala 3 yrs ago it was love at first sight. Chotirani and the Raja started spending a lot of time together in the Raja's outhouse at the end of the kingdom. Now since Chotirani was pregnant he decided to mover her into the main Palace as his second wife, though he made it clear to Chotirani that no one could ever take Maharani's place as she was his first love. Maharani accepted Chotirani with utmost grace, she took Chotirani under her wing and taught her the ways of aristocratic living. To the naked eye it appeared as if Maharani was the kindest soul and very accepting of Chotirani, little did anyone know the plans Mahrani had in place for Chotirani and her unborn child. ' Bhagirati ' the sevika Maharani trusted the most was tasked to ensure Chotirani's unborn child would never make it into this World.

Mharani had awarded Bhagirati with a precious ranihaar encrusted with diamonds and Bhagirati knew she would get all the riches in the world if she executed Mahrani's order with precision. Little did Raja Puran Sigh know what his first love was capable of!

Will Chotirani be able to save her child and herself from Maharani's evil intention?

DREAMS TO REALITY It takes months of work to bring a piece to life.

It all starts with a drawing followed by colour sampling, fabric dying and testing. It takes months to bring a piece to life. I am nothing without my family of these very skilled and highly talented artists that I work with .

Hamaz Bhai, Mulla Bhai, Neera ‌. They put up with my unrealistic demands and I am ever so grateful to them.

For purchases email me at designerayushkejriwal@hotmail.com or what's app me on 00447840384707 đ&#x;™?đ&#x;˜Š We ship WORLDWIDE.

AYUSH KEJRIWAL

A Fairy-tale Wedding in Bali

Sanjay & Prema

by Anood Jaleel /Photograph Anood Jaleel

If there ever was a fairytale wedding , this was it .

Sanjay and Prema exchanged wedding vows in the magical island of Bali ...

44 of their closest people were witness to the simple ceremony blessed by a Balinese priest in the midst of a serene forest. The whole setting was adorned with orange chrysanthemums, traditional Balinese music adding to the reverie . The bride n groom, dressed in simple yellow cottons could not have looked more resplendent in gold n diamonds !

The official ceremony was preceded the previous night by a long table dinner for all the guests .The setting was straight out of a fairytale, with a star lit night, candles and roses to add to the magic. The after beach party with a gorgeous sunset as a backdrop, dream catchers and wish lanterns reminded one of a classic romantic movie.

What more can I say of this magical wedding?

Yes...it sure was one experience to cherish...for now n forever more.

H appy children pranking, A pples bobbing, too, L ively little brownies L ooking straight at you.

O wls with mournful hooting, W itches riding sticks, E lves and cats and goblins, E ach one up to tricks.

N ow it can be plainly seen

That at last it’s Halloween!

HALLOWE’EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEN! Halloween or Hallowe’en (a contraction of All Hallows’ Evening) or All Saints’ Eve which is a celebration observed in many countries on the 31st October, the eve of the feast of All Hallows’ Day. It is believed that the Halloween traditions originated from the ancient Celtic harvest festival of Samhain (pronounced SAH-win or SOW-in) where people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts going door-to-door reciting verses in exchange for food. Today Halloween has evolved into a day of activities with trick or treating, carving pumpkins into jack O’ lanterns, attending Halloween costume parties, lighting bonfires, bobbing apples, watching horror movies to name a few and the celebrations follow into the month of December with further gatherings, parties, exchanging gifts and sweet treats. Though in many parts of the world the Christian observances of All Hallows’ Even including attending church services and lighting candles on the graves of the dead remain popular, elsewhere it is a more commercial and secular celebration.

Origins of Halloween Traditionally Samhain was celebrated from 31 October to 1 November, as the Celtic day began and ended at sunset which is about halfway between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice.

Samhain is believed to have Celtic pagan origins and there is evidence it has been an important date since ancient times. It was seen as a liminal time when the boundary between this world and the ‘Other world’ could more easily be crossed. This meant the ‘spirits’ could more easily come into our world. At Samhain, it was believed that the spirits needed to be propitiated to ensure that the people and their livestock survived the winter. Offerings of food and drink were left outside for them. The souls of the dead were also thought to revisit their homes seeking hospitality. Feasts were had, at which the souls of dead kin were beckoned to attend and a place set at the table for them. Mumming and guising were part of the festival, and involved people going door-to-door in costumes often reciting verses in exchange for food. The costumes may have been a way of imitating, and disguising oneself from the spirits.

ALL SAINTS’ DAY During early Christianity as back as A.D. 347, All Saints' Day was assigned by St. Chrysostom as the first Sunday after Pentecost and in 609, Pope Boniface IV consecrated the Pantheon in Rome to the Virgin Mary and all the martyrs on May 13. This was the same date as Lemuria an ancient Roman festival of the dead, and the same date as the commemoration of all saints in Edessa in the time of Ephrem. The day was observed as All Saints' Day until Pope Gregory III dedicated a chapel in the Basilica of St. Peter to All the Saints on November 1st. Pope Gregory IV and Sixtus IV further ordered its universal observation and liturgical vigil during their pontification. All Hallows' Day also known as All Saints' or Hallowmas is observed as the Christian feast day till date on the 1st of November, All Souls' Day on 2nd November (a day of commemoration on which special intercession is made for the souls of the dead in the belief that those not yet purified will be aided by the prayers of the living) and the evening before All Hallows' Day is Halloween or All Hallows' Even on the 31st of October. Since the time of the early Church, major feasts in Christianity such as Christmas, Easter and Pentecost had vigils that began the night before, as the feast of All Hallows'. These three days are collectively 31 October to 2 November - called All Hallowtide and a time for honouring the saints and praying for the recently departed souls who have yet to reach Heaven.

All Saints' Day has been celebrated all over the world for hundreds of years now and nearly every country which celebrates it has developed unique customs. In some All Saints' Day custom children light Bonfires, some decorate the graves of the deceased loved ones with flowers and offer prayers, and some during the medieval times celebrated with a procession around the church with the parishioners dressed as angels and saints which today has become Trick or Treat.

References from The Halloween Encyclopedia by Lisa Morten and Wikipedia.

JACK O’ LANTERNS It is believed that the custom of making jack-o'-lanterns at Halloween began in Ireland. In the19th century turnips or mangel wurzels, hollowed out to act as lanterns and often carved with grotesque faces, were used at Halloween in parts of Ireland and the Scottish Highlands. In these regions, Halloween was seen as a time when supernatural beings, the Aos Si and the souls of the dead, roamed the earth. The lanterns represented the spirits or the supernatural beings or were used to ward of evil spirits. It has also been written that the jack o' lanterns originally represented Christian souls in purgatory, as Halloween is the eve of All Saints' Day (1st November) and All Souls Day (2nd November).

In a jack-o'-lantern, the top of the pumpkin or turnip is cut off to form a lid, the inside flesh is scooped out, and an image — usually a monstrous or comical face – is carved out of the rind to expose the hollow interior. To create the lantern effect, a light source is placed within before the lid is closed. The light source is traditionally a flame such as a candle or tea light. It is common to see jack-o'-lanterns on doorsteps and otherwise used as decorations prior to and on Halloween.

Folklores

Taken from Wikipedia

An old Irish folk tale from the mid 19th century tells of Stingy Jack, a lazy shrewd blacksmith who uses a cross to trap Satan. One story says that Jack tricked Satan into climbing an apple tree and once he was up there, Jack quickly placed crosses around the trunk or carved a cross into the bark, so that Satan could not get down.

Another version of this story says that Jack was getting chased by some villagers from whom he had stolen, when he met Satan, who claimed it was time for him to die. However, the thief stalled his death by tempting Satan with a chance to bedevil the church-going villagers chasing him. Jack told Satan to turn into a coin with which he would pay for the stolen goods (Satan could take on any shape he wanted); later, when the coin (Satan) disappeared, the Christian villagers would fight over who had stolen it. The Devil agreed to this plan. He turned himself into a silver coin and jumped into Jack's wallet, only to find himself next to a cross Jack had also picked up in the village. Jack had closed the wallet tight, and the cross stripped the Devil of his powers; and so he was trapped.

In both folktales, Jack lets Satan go only after he agrees to never take his soul. Many years later, the thief died, as all living things do. Of course, Jack's life had been too sinful for him to go to heaven; however, Satan had promised not to take his soul, and so he was barred from hell as well. Jack now had nowhere to go. He asked how he would see where to go, as he had no light, and Satan mockingly tossed him an ember from the flames of Hades, that would never burn out. Jack carved out one of his turnips (his favorite food), put the ember inside it, and began endlessly wandering the Earth for a resting place. He became known as "Jack of the Lantern", or jack-o'-lantern.

TRICK OR TREATING The tradition of mumming and guising dates back to the Middle Ages which involved going door-to-door in costumes, performing short scenes or parts of plays in exchange for food or drink. It may have originated from the Celtic festival of Samhain observed in certain parts of Europe held on 31 October – 1 November marking the beginning of winter. It was believed among the Celtic-speaking people that the spirits or Aos Si and the souls of the dead, came into our world and were appeased with offerings of food and drink. Trick or treating evolved from the tradition where people impersonated the spirits or the souls of the dead and received offerings on their behalf. Impersonating these spirits or souls was also believed to protect oneself from them.

The practice of souling dates to the medieval period in England and was continued there until the 1930s by both Protestant and Catholic Christians. This practice of giving and eating soul cakes continues in some countries today such as Portugal and in other countries it is seen as the origin of the practice of trick or treating. A soul cake is a small round cake which is traditionally made during the days of All Hallowtide to commemorate the dead in the Christian tradition. The cakes, often simply referred to as souls, are given to soulers (mainly are children and the poor) who go from door to door during the day of All Hallowtide singing and saying prayers for the souls of the givers and their friends. The cakes are usually filled with allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger or other sweet spices, raisins or currants, and before baking were topped with the mark of a cross to signify that these were alms.

Though the concept of trick or treating originated from the Scots and the Irish in the form of guising and souling, the North American way of using the term 'trick or treat' has become common and is practised worldwide today.

you are served.

Photos and Recipes from the BBM Channel ‘Food & Drink Showcase’ Channel Pin C00367E57

Prime Rib Hash. Latke-like crispy potatoes. Scallions. Ribeye. Sunny Egg. Slab Bacon

The Dirty Elvis Burger Breakdown ___________________________ -Juicy Beef Pattie -Melted Cheddar -Deep-fried Pickles -Secret Sauce -Smothered with crunchy Peanut Butter

The Ribba Burger Breakdown

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BBQ Pork Ribs

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Deep-fried Mac ‘n’ Cheese

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Onion rings

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Pickles

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Bacon

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BBQ slaw, onion

The Three Little Pigs Burger Breakdown -Pork belly -Bacon -Pulled pork -Cheese sauce -Fried egg -Apple tequila jam

Tanko Chick Burger Breakdown - Panko Crumbed Chicken - Poured down with Tonkatsu Sauce - Topped with Togarashi Mayo

- Lettuce - Super fluffy milk buns

Sydney Stack Burger Breakdown - Grilled beef - Five spice bacon

- BBQ sauce - Rice wine pickle - Prawn crackers - Melted cheese - Aioli - Lettuce

Cocktail Time

Banana Delightfulness Blend _________________ Crème de banana Banana popsicles Vanilla ice cream Finished with sweet swirl suckers and a shot bottle of VODKA

Sour Power Trio Red 1 1/2 oz. Smirnoff Fruit Punch Vodka Splash of Lemonade Top with Sprite Pink 1 1/2 oz. Smirnoff Sour Watermelon Vodka Splash of Lemonade Top with Sprite Blue 1 1/2 oz. Smirnoff Berry Lemon Vodka Splash of Blue Raspberry Juice Top with Sprite

Blackberry Long Island - 2 oz Vodka - 2 oz Rum - 2 oz Tequila - 2 oz Gin - 1.5 oz Sweet and Sour - 1 oz Simple Syrup - 1.5 oz Triple Sec Muddle 4or5 blackberries with a spoon full of sugar Top it off with a hit of lemon juice

Apple Drop Shooters __________________ 1 oz. AlizĂŠ Apple Liqueur 1 oz. Green Apple Vodka Splash of Sprite Stir with spoon in a cup with ice.

Strain into Shot Glasses Vidal Sour Apple Gummies

Lemon Blueberry Gin Fizz Ingredients 5-10 blueberries Slice of lemon Sprig of mint 1.5 oz gin 1 oz lemon juice 1 oz agave

The White Russian Cocktail Ingredients -

2 oz Vodka

- 1 oz Kahlúa - Heavy cream Instructions

Add the vodka and Kahlúa to an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice.

Top with a large splash of heavy cream and stir.

Classic Strawberry Mojito • 2 Barspoons of sugar • Juice of half a lime • 8 Strawberry halfs Muddel • 6 mint leafs • 5cl Rum • Bit of crushed ice Stir • Top up with soda

Coconut Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

Photo courtesy ‘Food and Drink Showcase’ BBM Channel. Channel PIN C00367E57

Ingredients ¼ cup virgin coconut oil, solid & slightly softened ⅓ cup nut butter or tahini ⅔ cup coconut sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt ⅓ cup coconut flour ⅔ cup (4 oz.) chopped dark chocolate Sprinkle flaky sea salt(Optional)

Directions Preheat oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a bowl whisk together the coconut flour, coconut oil, vanilla, salt and eggs until a uniform batter is created. The batter will be a bit runny but will thicken as the coconut flour starts to absorb the moisture. Add chocolate chips. Stir to distribute them evenly.

Drop the cookie dough on to the lined baking sheet using a tablespoon and flatten the dough out with your hands shaping them how you would like them to turn out.

Bake at 350 F for 15 mins or the edges are golden brown.

Allow to cool and serve.

Hide a little So we just had lunch and I am putting away the dishes. My beautiful blue eyed canine watches me while I do that. I finish up and walk to the living room get my laptop to try and write something for my magazine or just scroll through Facebook maybe. Petra follows me to the living room. She is pacing forth and back and finally finds her comfy corner in the room for a nap. Oh well.... time for some peace and quiet I carry on. A few minutes into quiet Petra is up and pawing me on my arm.

When she does that it really hurts and sometimes even scratches the skin. Earlier in the day I watched a video saying if a pet a pet paws you look her straight in the eye and push the paw away showing her you are in charge which I've been eagerly waiting to do and finally get the chance to show her I am BOSS! I push her paw away once she stares back at me paws again I push again but she paws again. This continues a couple more times, I give up eyes rolling at her Yes Ma'am you are the BOSS. I leave the laptop and get my ass up to the kitchen. She follows me all tail wagging and tongue all lopsided. I give her a Jumbone and now she's the happiest puppy on this planet. She is licking and chewing the Jumbone out on her mat. I get back to my work and then Petra is back to the pacing act only this time with the treat in her mouth. I'm wondering 'what is she up to now?' As I watch she jumps onto the sofa next to me and starts digging profusely into a corner of the single seater. My first impulse is to yell NO but then out of curiosity I decide to wait and find out the intention behind all this. This should be fun. Turns out she is digging a hole in my sofa to hide her Jumbone. Since she couldn't dig a hole she pushes it into the corner using her nose and mouth. Oh that nose the things she does with that shiny black little nose.... that's another story for another day haha! Still not satisfied that it is hid well enough she pulls my white crochet throw to cover it up. The amazing nose does that job of gathering the material together with a little tuck in here a tuck in there and Voila! All done! She gets down and looks back at the cover up and very pleased with a job done to perfection Madam Petra walks away proud. I chuckle! She turns around to look at me if I saw anything and I give her my 'Me Oh no I didn't see a thing' look. My husband and I had a good laugh at dinner later that night. So now we find food hidden in all corners of our sofa every now and then. We just leave it there like we saw nothing! Woof!

Shhh…. It’s a piece of bread!

Petra is our puppy we adopted when she was six months old. I love watching what she does and all the little mischiefs she gets into. Sharing a few funnies some amusing and some … well not so amusing and funny. I hope you enjoy them!

Thank you !!

Thank you.

Maybe the princess could save herself.

That sounds like a pretty good story too.

Marissa Meyer

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