Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continuation....

Annie felt lighter enjoying his company.
He was romantic, skillfully chatting with her a wide range of topics.
Somehow she felt comfortable with the attractive man.

The whole group decide to leave when Emma and David returned to the table. David led Emma to his car leaving Annie with Gregory who offered a ride in his car to her home.

She accepted and soon found herself sitting beside him in his luxurious car.As they glided along the road beside the beach Gregory continued with his charming conversation and Annie taking part actively.

She felt so happy that evening.
As he turned the vehicle towards the hills Annie looked at him confused.

"Well....Miss...just relax...I would like to show you the scenery from the top of the hill. You will definitely love it".

Annie didn't object.
Instead she felt thrilled.

The car slowly climbed the winding road leading to the top of the hill overlooking the beach. Annie had seen this hill while traveling alongside the beach several times but was told it is private residential area. The whole place looked magnificent in the moonlight. Finally Gregory stopped the car in front of a huge iron gate.

Annie became nervous. A security guard approached the vehicle and he waved them through as Gregory lowered the glass window.
Annie saw a huge castle brightly lit that looked like an old palace.

Gregory stopped the car in the porch directly in front of the castle's elegant front door. Within no time two uniformed men opened the door for both of them and politely offered them warm welcome.
As they were ushered in Annie presumed Gregory owns this place by observing the way he conducted himself there and the dealings with his staff.

She felt embarrassed and nervous.
"Again...Miss...I must tell you sorry...well...I own this castle.
I bought it two years ago and since then I come here as much as I can because this is the place I love most".

He took Annie all around shows her the huge chandeliers century old and other antiques. The whole place was kept wonderfully clean with luxury everywhere.

He led her to a huge room that looked like a private room with king sized beds. He took Annie to a beautifully carved mural art on a wall and slowly pulled aside the velvet curtain covering a painting.

Annie was surprised looking at her own old painting done by her former friend David. "I bought it 2 years ago, Annie.... from him. I met him in Paris, he is now well-known in the art circle as a successful painter. At first he was reluctant to sell this but finally he agreed.
He didn't tell me who his muse was but I found out, now."

He came near and hugged her looking deeply into her eyes. Slowly he kissed her passionately, Annie thought she was dreaming as she responded to his intimacy.

With one hand embracing her Gregory opened the box on the nearby table. The blue diamond necklace sparkled brightly under the chandelier light!


The End




Thursday, November 6, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continuation....

The post show dinner was just another extravaganza for them with lot of pleasantries. They enjoyed it very much. The party ended very late and they just fell tired and exhausted into their beds reaching home after returning the borrowed attire to the model agency.

Annie just slept hard till the cellphone began playing the ringtone of the latest popular melody by the Rock group in the city at 10 AM the next day. She reached for the phone still half asleep and listened to the shrilling voice of Mary her colleague in the shop at the other end.

"Ba...Ba...Annie...this was your secret"...she giggled.

"You and Emma were playing this game, you never told anyone...hmmmm.... And both of you are looking stunning"... she continued.

"Oh...what...what...." Annie didn't get a thing about what she was talking. "Please Mary...tell me...What's it?"

"Hmmm....Annie...wonderful...you didn't see today's newspaper?..you and Emma are there on today's newspaper supplement. You were there at the ballet and your pictures are there on the supplement in the City's party circuit newspage. I didn't know you both were going to the ballet, and ohhh...gosh...You both are now elite class..." Mary was talking breathlessly.

Annie was shocked to hear all these. She jumped out of the bed and dashed for the newspaper bunch lying on the floor just close to the main door pushed inside by the delivery man without bothering to close the conversation politely with Mary. She frantically opened the supplement and was surprised to see both hers and Emma's picture beautifully printed on the City's Party circuit newspage. The newspaper every Sunday will publish pictures of important functions and some corporate get-together colorfully and there she was with Emma mingling along with elites and important people.

With the newspaper in hand she opened the door and rushed to Emma's room and knocked on her door.
It took some time for Emma to open the door.
"Good morning Annie..what's the matter...well... come inside"...she rubbed her eyes half asleep. Annie dashed the supplement in front of her.
"Oh....My God....what's this". Emma's eyes opened out with surprise.

Annie slowly stepped inside her room and sat on her bed. Both of them didn't speak out for sometime sitting still.
"Annie...we have become famous. Now this has become high profile. We are in the limelight. I don't know what to do"... Emma sighed.

Suddenly Emma's cellphone been ringing. Another friend. Excited talks, giggles..Again another call...followed by another.
Annie slowly get up and walked to her room. She could hear her cellphone ringing...calls...again and again...

The whole day both of them received so many excited calls from friends acquaintances, relatives, siblings and parents and many text messages as well.

At the end of the day they realized that their adventure has become public and now they just cannot hide themselves.
They finally decided to face it squarely.While they were eating dinner Emma's cellphone began ringing.

It was David again. The conversation lasted long with lots of giggles from Emma's side.
Well...Annie David has invited us for a dinner next Monday just the two of us, ok? I agreed....ok?
Annie became irritated.
No.... I am not coming...you and David will make a perfect company not me..I am already fed up with all these..Emma...."
"Ohhhh...Annie come on..."
Emma persuaded her again.

The next day they were showered praises by their friends and colleagues while at work but contrary to their expectation they could handle things well.
Emma persuaded Annie again to attend the dinner.

To be continued....

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Blossoming roses of love


Continuation....

Hearing the love between the hero and heroine Emma started giggling. Annie could see the developing chemistry between the man and Emma.

Suddenly the lights dimmed and the stage curtain parted slowly while melodious music floated in the hall.

The whole stage was bathed in soft sky blue light. Slowly they could see glittering stars in the blue sky and beautiful flowers everywhere.

As the whole scene got dimmed another spectacle of snow covered mountains were seen in the background and two dancers made their appearance accompanied by sweet music.

The well synchronized moves, twists and turns were beautiful and as they glided all over the stage and people just sat mesmerized at the beauty of all of it.

Slowly the characters began their appearance one by one and the beautiful love story slowly unfolded in front of them as a dance theme.
Annie was amazed at the perfection of the synchronized moves made by all of those dancers and the skills they exhibited simply was superb.

The audience were simply spellbound so that none noticed one hour has passed when the ten minute intermission was announced.

When the lights glowed they could hear excited talks all around them and both of them expressed their appreciation to David. He acknowledged them politely all the more pleased.

Annie noted he and Emma are sitting closer and she came to the conclusion that the chemistry is getting deeper between them.

Some people were going out for the break and David offered them a drink which they accepted. Three of them went out to the reception hall and the waitress promptly served them fresh juices.

As David headed for the restroom Annie naughtily teased Emma.


"Wake up...wake up....Cinderella".

Emma giggled...."What do you think of him Annie, Isn't he charming?"

"Well...well..he is just average"....Annie smiled mischievously.

"You...." Emma nudged her.

They laughed together.

From the admiring glances they received it was quite clear to them that they were looking good well suited to the gathering. So they decide to play their part to perfection.

The next half was better than the previous one. The dancers exhibited more and more skills and people applauded them heartily.
The light and sound captivated the entire audience.

The love story ended happily and everybody got on their feet giving a standing ovation when the dancers assembled on the stage.

It was a great performance!

"Well...ladies....how was it?" David inquired.

Both of them showered praise.

"Well. I presume you both have been invited to the post show dinner tonight"....

"Yes...of course..we have been invited and it is our pleasure to attend and we feel honored".

"Good...I also will be there and sure you will be meeting some important people".

David said goodbye after looking into the eyes of Emma a little longer.

After he left Annie teased her again.

Both of them felt really on top of the world enjoying the whole circus.

To be continued....


Monday, September 15, 2008

Blossoming roses of love


Continuation.....

The man signalled a waitress who was carrying a tray full of drinks.

Annie opted for a cocktail fruit juice and Emma accepted a glass of tomato juice from the waitress.

"Enjoy your drinks, please...15 more minutes for the doors to open and we will be back to take you to your seats...Allow us to take leave of you, temporarily..."

They bowed and hurried their way through the guests to welcome other dignitaries.

Annie and Emma felt comfortable among the gathering of the elites. As they sipped their drinks they exchanged pleasantries with some people around. The rich, famous, elite and powerful in the country were there.

Some high profile people made their appearance and they saw the welcome team approaching them again just as the bell sounded indicating the opening of the doors. They checked their tickets and was taken to the VIP chamber and were shown the comfortable, reclining seats. The man showed them the buttons on the chairs to call the butler service during the show, the exit and the way to the restroom politely. Annie noted with admiration the luxury and efficiency everywhere.

The VIP box was very spacious with a wide walkway in between the seats at different levels. Annie occupied the side seat and Emma sat just next to her. All the rows were having three seats each and they wondered who will occupy the third one next to Emma. By this time the dignitaries were getting seated and Annie could sense the excitement on the air about the wonderful event they all are going to watch.

They could feel the excitement of the elite people assembled in the VIP chamber anticipating a wonderful show ahead. Then the entry door opened and they saw the whole welcometeam ushering in a handsome man in a well tailored suit towards their row of seats. He seemed to be a very important person being escorted by the officials in that way.

Finally they came near them and in the midst of... Excuse me...ladies let me squeeze in here..etc....but there was plenty of space there being a luxurious VIP chamber and he finally got himself seated next to Emma on the the third seat in that row. There was a flurry of thank you's from both sides and the welcome team slowly retreated politely.

"Hello ladies..allow me to introduce myself...I am David...David Markell...Production control of this ballet".

The man smiled at them and handed over them his business card . Annie and Emma felt little nervous introducing themselves but they judged him as an easy going guy, well groomed and nice while he talked to them putting them at ease.

He narrated them the story of the show they are going to watch, the myths surrounding the theme, something about the costumes, the music, the cast among many other things. Both of them were amazed listening to his vocabulary while he portrayed the history of the ballet troupe.

Soon they both found themselves asking questions to him as though they were great friends for a longtime.
The way he conducted the conversation skillfully without in any way disturbing others at the same time making it interesting was
remarkable. In between he became humorous telling them about the love story.

To be continued.....

Friday, September 5, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continuation...

"You look like a model, Annie"...Emma smiled.

"You too"...Annie replied as she watched the beautiful lights on either side of the road as the car glided along the street. They felt comfortable and satisfied at this sudden transformation and mentally rehearsed what they had practiced the preceding weeks to act sophisticated and high class.

As the vehicle approached the well decorated entrance of the huge theater Annie opened her handbag and checked the tickets and was ready with the citizen identification. They could see a number of security guards everywhere.

At the entrance the chauffer handed over the tickets and their identification to the security and they were waved through the fast lane to the VIP entrance swiftly. The chauffer stopped the vehicle at the porch denoting VIP entrance and courteously opened the car doors.

Just like what they had seen in the movies both of them slid out of their seats smiling, clutching their handbags.

"Hello ladies....welcome....welcome"
We are honored to have you both attend this event and sure it will be a very memorable one for you two...
Thanks so much."

A very handsome man impecably dressed flanked by two beautiful ladies welcomed them.They murmured thanks and were escorted inside the huge theater complex, well carpeted and illuminated by huge chandeliers. Soft music floated in the arrival hall and everything looked fantastic and wonderful. Both of them smiled at everyone and appreciated the admiring glances thrown by the people around. Annie saw many prominent faces in the social and political circles in the country that fill the newspapers and tabloid everyday and felt little nervous. They congratulated themselves for making a grand appearance like this for looking wonderful and felt justified in spending a considerable sum of money. Not bad...!

The welcome team took them to the main arrival hall.

"Well...I am sure you are aware of the laurels this ballet troupe has achieved all over the world. This troupe is about 10 years old and has visited almost every country in the world. This was started by a couple and now their grand children are running the show and all of themjust breath ballet.
The story they are going to play here is of the White Swan in the blue lake, a love story.
We began the preparation for this unique event 2 months ago and the machinery took a month to install.
Well....you can imagine the technical side of it. Almost 300 artists are going to entertain you displaying a wonderful performance laced with all sorts of modern wonders of light and sound.

The man's speech was impressive with occasional inputs from the hostesses.

To be continued...




Monday, September 1, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continuation......

Both of them couldn't cope up with the excitement when the important day approached.

They didn't sleep well that night and decided to take half-day casual leave in the evening to catch up a little nap before they go to the ballet. Because they decided to keep this important thing between themselves only, friends, colleagues and relatives were kept in the dark. They never uttered a word to anyone about their adventure.But friends and colleagues secretly noted the glow on their faces and the new- found vigour which they attributed to new boyfriends and that's quite natural for them to assume - common sense !

After a light lunch both of them retired to their rooms and tried to relax in bed hoping for a light afternoon nap.

They still could not contain their excitement but they were able to relax somewhat.

Finally at 4PM both were ready and headed to the Spa in the mall to get some makeup done and hairdo.

Both of them had coughed up a good sum to buy expensive handbags and footwear to match the expensive attire they rented at the modeling agency and bought imitation diamond jewellery. Emma was in high spirits, was giggling and talking uninterrupted all the time; she was enjoying the whole thing. Annie was just wavering at times and thrilled with pauses of doubting in between. As the tempo of the preparation caught on she also was in jubilant mood and decided to threw herself fully into the circus.

From the Spa they went directly to the modelling agency to complete the rest of the preparation.

The technical staff collected the balance of their fee including a refundable deposit and ushered them inside their studio.

Both of them were ordered to undress fully except the undies inside the studio, brightly lit by lights, walls covered with full length mirrors. They felt only little embarrasment and thanked God because the staff also were ladies.

Annie was given a pink, crystal studded satin and velvet attire and Emma a blue one. Some adjustments were made and they got into their attire with the help of the staff who gave them tips about handling the garment carefully reminding them its' high cost. During the process they turned the spotlights at different angles and adjusted the laces, belt and straps highlighting their body curves. Annie and Emma were truly impressed and from the admiring looks the staff gave them they were sure that they looked wonderfully good.
As for the finishing touches the staff gave them some lessons for a graceful style of walking and finally some more makeup, lipstick and hairdo and they were ready. Their hair curls were reinforced once again and the staff checked their garments once more and said good-bye to them as they got into their hired chauffer driven luxury car.

To be continued....




Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Blossoming roses of love



Continuation.....

Like this discussing they spend a little longer than usual time that night discussing the issue but could not reach an agreement .


After Emma left for sleep to her room Annie browsed the internet searching for some details about the ballet troupe and also about the show in their metro. She had browsed these casually sometime ago when the show was announced but didn't go into the details because she knew she won't be able to go.

The website with streaming audio and video content was excellent and she enjoyed browsing it. The video was superb. The performance looked life-like and the more she viewed it, the more she got interested in attending the programme. Before it was more negative against positives but slowly she understood that positives are filling her mind.

She wanted to call upon Emma then and there and announce her decision to go to the ballet but thought later it would be better tell her tomorrow because it would disturb Emma's sleep.

Happily Annie went to sleep switching off the lights and shutting the laptop down.

For next few days they both were on cloud nine fantasizing. They discussed about their attire, the accessories to be worn, make-up, etc, etc. Emma began dieting to lose some more flab from her waist to look better. Annie signed up for a rejuvenation package in a nearby spa for a week. She wanted to add more glow to her already flawless skin.

Their friends and colleagues began teasing them about a romantic date.They didn't tell them the real reason for such elaborate preparations because in case their plans fail they didn't want to be made fun of by others; still they could not believe the exciting things that were happening in their lives that elevated them to cloud nine.
Both of them combed the entire city after searching the yellowpages and spending countless hours browsing google for the special dress and other accessories. This search took them to a fashion designer who conducts small time catwalk shows with models. She agreed to dress them up for the event and the cost burned a black hole in their pockets.
But this was the only alternative they had since they could not afford to buy an expensive glittering dress and they never owned a real piece of diamond. However, they enjoyed the whole of exciting, adrenaline-filled process of getting ready for the grand event.
Both of them began looking better and were smiling more often than before.

The glows on their faces and their vibrant attitude caught more attention and turned more heads than before.

They secretly enjoyed the whole show.

To be continued.....

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Blossoming roses of love




Continued.....

Precisely at 8:00 PM, as usual on most of the days, they assembled in Annie's apartment for supper. Annie by this time has cooked a light meal with the vegetables and fish they bought from the grocery. Sometimes they cook together especially if they are trying a new recipe and assemble in Emma's room because her kitchen adjoining the main room
was bigger than Annie's.
Both being health conscious weight and figure watchers only rarely ordered junk foods from outside and enjoyed pastries and ice creams. While eating they will gossip, watch TV together and by 10 o' clock wil go to sleep routinely.
Annie will sometimes browse the internet in her laptop for sometimes and Emma listen to music in her Ipod before sleep. This was their routine daily.
"So let's go, anyway Annie..." Emma opened the topic enjoying the tomato soup.
"It's not ordinary gathering, you know Emma..the place will be full of glittering diamonds, botox faces and suit clad rich men. And we are not used to such types of get together yet, moreover we don't wear diamonds nor do we wear even fake" Annie sighed.
Emma's face fell.
It was obvious Emma didn't think of such problems highlighted by Annie. She was very much excited.
"OH...Annie...this is a lovely thing, may be once in a life time, the ballet is really great."
"But Emma... what I wonder is who arranged for those tickets. Is someone trying to fool us or to make fun of us while we attend the event?
We will be the laughing stock of the rich people over there."
"Oh...Annie...don't make me nervous. Let's just look at the glamorous side of it, we will just wear some low cost fake diamonds and will borrow elegant looking attire from the boutique. Let's spend some money anyway. We'll just take it as an adventure and if something goes wrong we'll just escape fun there. This is free country and we already confirmed our tickets are genuine, so why worry?"
She argued.
Annie didn't reply her.
"By going there we may come to know who is this generous person who sponsored us. Who knows, may be some rich handsome man..." she giggled.
Emma has some suitors but she hasn't decided about them. Annie knew she had gone for some dates recently but there is none at present i serious relationship wit her. Like Annie she was also ambitious and has plans to start her own business someday.
Her chosen field is fashion and Annie had no doubt she will open her own boutique after taking up some course in fashion designing.

To be continued....


Sunday, August 17, 2008

Blossoming roses of love





Continued....

Annie watched silently Emma talking excitedly to the Event co-ordinator checking the details on the tickets.

She read out the ticket number, the unique identification code on the tickets, Annie's full name and address.

Her cellphone's loudspeaker was on so Annie could hear the co-ordinator confirming the authenticity of the tickets.

When he asked about the guest details Annie nodded and Emma proudly announced her name and other details.

Annie was astonished when the coordinator mentioned that being privileged guests they will get a chance to meet the artists and other dignitaries during the post-show get-together and assured that their tickets are confirmed for the VIP zone.

She could see Emma also now confused like her as she disconnected the call.

Both of them sat dazed there trying to get their thoughts together.
It was Annie who broke the silence.

"So what should we do now?"

"It is genuine, this is not joke" Emma sighed.

"Ok...let's talk about this later,now back to work".

Annie jumped to her feet and both of them walked fast to their shop.

They struggled to keep their poise the whole noon at work. The events on that day were very strange and their minds raced fast around the mystery. Both were very much eager to finish work and get back to their apartments so that they could discuss in detail about the future plans.

Both Annie and Emma stayed in one of the modest looking building in the city facing sea.

The view outside the window was magnificent and the cool breeze a boon during summer. On the other side was a beautiful park, the tulips and orchids were simply wonderful! From their place of stay it was hardly twenty minutes walk to the mall where they worked. There were good, wide, well connected roads around the mall so the traffic never caused problem in that newly developed area of the city.

When the bell rang indicating the end of the day's work Emma and Annie hurriedly got out of the shop and after buying some grocery items rushed back home.

Both were eager to chart out a plan of action about the ballet show.

They felt a wave of excitement engulf them as they took shower before before meeting in Annie's room for their supper and discussion.

To be continued.....


Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Blossoming roses of love



Continued....

Her heart missed a beat when she locked-in her eyes on the paper.
She felt curious at the same time excited as well. It was a beautifully printed pamphlet with exquisite pictures of the world famous ballet that announced just a single show in the city before embarking upon a North American tour. The tickets were priced in the ranges only super-rich and the elite class could afford to purchase and the whole lot sold out months in advance of the show.
The technical preparations were going on for months now because of the complexity and size of the event involving a large number of artists and technicians.

She became surprised looking at the two upper class tickets neatly clipped on the pamphlet and began wondering who has arranged this delivery without her knowledge.

Being very much interested in ballet dance shows she actually wanted to watch this unique event but the heavy cost of the tickets suppressed her desire. She always cherished the memories of watching a not so famous ballet with Daniel, her ex-boyfriend, when
they visited Europe during one of their holidays some years ago.
It was a beautiful show indeed ! A great love story was unveiled in front of them by those beautiful girls and handsome men on stage, made magnificent by glittering attire, sparkling lights and melodious music. The well chisselled bodied handsome men dancing, the wave of emotions each one of them depicted, all these thrilled her.

Those were some of the happiest moments in her life.
In spite of the busy work schedule she and Emma attend ballet classes given by Romanian lady regularly and there were talks about a small time ballet performance by their group if they get sufficient number of dancers but very few could stick on with the rigorous workouts and people used to come and go, only she and Emma stayed long just because of their interest and passion.

"Wow....what I see here....My God....Jackpot it is....my dear Annie....this is jackpot". Emma snatched the tickets from her hand and began dancing some steps which turned some passers-by turn their heads. Annie didn't see Emma approaching because she was too much engrossed in the event because of the sudden excitement.

"Great..why didn't you tell me before....yeah...you were keeping it as a surprise isn't it..you naughty !...How thoughtful of you, you bought two tickets, spent a lot....hmmm...Lucky..."
She hugged Annie.

Annie couldn't see an opening to explain the mysteries to her,so she waited till her tantrums subsided. So when Emma came back to her senses she slowly led her to a nearby chair and explained she didn't know how she was delivered the two expensive tickets.

They began working out what should be the next step and checked thoroughly the envelope. It seemed everything is in order and it was addressed to her, no doubt ! They could see her name printed on one of the tickets probably being the event a high profile one. So sure it was meant for her only. The other ticket was named for a guest.

Finally they decided to inquire with the Event Co-ordination Office contact member they found on the pamphlet.

Emma hurriedly dialled the number using her cellphone.

To be continued....



Thursday, July 31, 2008

Blossoming roses of love




Continued....

Like this she spent the morning hours dealing with customers and finally the bell sounded indicating the time for their two hour afternoon break. She rushed to the toilet, changed clothes and walked to the nearby joint for a vegetable salad and sandwich along with Emma not forgetting to take her bag.

Normally she will take her wallet and mobile phone only with her during lunch hours but today she wanted to read that letter in private. It was a big square shaped thick envelope so she didn't try to fold it and keep inside her pocket.

She checked her mobile phone for the missed calls and text messages while walking to the cafe. There were two text messages from her parents and one from her brother who is studying economics in Europe. All just routine family messages and nothing special.

They entered a small cafe that was busy filled with people mostly employees in the other shops in the mall.
Some of them waved at her and Emma. They also waved them back.
Being weight-watchers, conscious of their figure, Emma and Annie were very much particular about their diet. Both of them were fond of dancing and they go to dance and ballet classes twice in a week.
In addition they regularly attended aerobic exercise sessions at the nearby gymnasium.

While eating vegetable sandwich Annie was wondering how to read the mysterious letter in privacy.

Of course she never hesitated in telling Emma about anything but she didn't want to tell her about this letter, she didn't know why.
She wanted to read it before anyone else.

They finished their meal and got out of the no-smoking section in the cafe. Usually they will window-shop after lunch and will return to the shop together sometimes after enjoying little time in front of the musical fountain in the beautiful garden adjoining the mall.

Annie was thinking of some excuse to leave Emma for sometime to open the envelope.
She felt guilty telling her lie but.....

Suddenly Emma began waving at somebody.

"Annie....excuse me....just give me a minute. Look at that guy, he was my colleague at the restaurant where I worked before. Let me just say hi to him".
She hurried to a curly haired guy standing a little farther.

Annie sighed with relief and opened her handbag turning and walking away from them.

To be continued....

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continuation....

She studied them and decided about the stuff she was going to offer. Her assumptions were right because the lady indicated her desire for men's perfume for her partner. Annie took three of the erotic perfumes widely advertised all over the world with pictures of very masculine models decorated with juicy almonds.

She withdrew a little from them to give the couple enough space to go through the testers and enjoy them before taking the decision which one to buy. All the three she showed them were really good, popular brands and were expensive too. But couples like them won't care about the price as they consider fragrances as something romantically linked, well...that was her experience !

She could very well see they have decided on a particular brand and then she approached them again with another set of perfumes. out of sales courtesy. The man looked very happy and the lady seems contented pleasing her partner.

The fragrances might have elevated their mood, they were sitting closer than before with more eye contact, more whispers and giggles !

They began testing the new set she brought but she could very well see that they have already decided upon the previous one they already liked. Still it's her duty to bring on more variety to the customers.

Finally they signaled her to pack the one already selected.

"What about something for you as well Mam....? We have some of the finest fragrances recently launched. Try this Mam...you will surely like it" .She smiled at them and liberally sprayed two tissue wicks from the tester container and handed each to them. That is sales etiquette, must serve everyone in the group and she could very will see it's the man who will be taking the decision this time even though the lady is the one who is going to pay.

"Oh...no... I don't think I need to buy a new one this time. Just last week I bought the...."

"Well...well...but this one smells good, great !.Try this darling". The man interrupted and brought the wick closer to her nose.

Again Annie discreetly withdrew a little and the couple began discussing their selection process that was not in their shopping agenda before.

Finally the happy couple left the outlet, clutching romantically their newly bought fragrances, hand in hand, smiling.

Well...good for them.

To be continued...

Monday, July 21, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continued....

Annie became the professional sales personnel when she began arranging the work-station packed with exotic fragrances from the most famous brands in the world. She kept the testers on the rack neatly and replenished the stocks of tissue paper wicks on which they spray the testers for the customers.

The reflecting, cool lamps were adjusted and she made sure all the exhibits were getting adequate visibility.
She checked the chairs for the customers, thanks to the cleaning staff, the whole place was spotlessly clean.

She looked herself at the mirror panelling between the product racks, adjusted her spectacles....good....and smiled at her reflection.

She felt cheerful and was ready to welcome another day at the shop.

By this time the whole place has become lively and she greeted all her co - workers who also were ready for the day's work ahead.

Emma has already got her first customer, a lady in her forties she guessed, who was interested in the newly launched, much hyped anti - wrinkle face cream. She looked like a tourist from South America.

"Hi Annie...morning..., How are you today" It was Steve, the manager.

"Hi Steve, me fine," Thank you, Frank gave me the envelope you handed him the other day."

"Yes, yes..it was delivered by a messenger but you were on leave that day so I couldn't give it to you."

"Oh..very kind of you, Thank you Steve."

"It's all right, have a nice day."

He walked to his cabin.

Wow...so it was delivered by a messenger !! This is really intriguing.

She wanted to go to the changing room and see what is inside that envelope immediately, but decided against it because it will be unprofessional to leave the work - station except during break - time unless it is emergency.

The outlet was run professionally, the paypackage excellent and the work place is very good. She never wanted to make a black mark. Never has she heard anyone of her colleagues complaining about the job. Of course some of the employees left for other better greener pastures but never anyone had left because of ill - treatment or unprofessional attitude from the Employer's side.

So employees were also loyal.

Just then, an elegant looking, formally dressed, diamond clad lady and her companion approached her.
The companion looked younger to her - boyfriend? Hubby?
She greeted them politely and ushered them to the plush chairs.

To be continued...



Sunday, July 20, 2008

Zoo


What to do? Where to go?
See the animals, go to zoo.
How many are going? How to go?
We all are going. We go by van.
What to do in van? What to eat?
We sing in van. We eat cookies.
Have we reached Zoo? Did we buy tickets?
We reached Zoo, we bought tickets.
What is that? Where are lions?
That is Zebra. Lions are there.
What is that? Where are monkeys?
That is panda. Monkeys are there.
What is that? Where are tigers?
That is squirrel. Tigers are there.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continued....

She was able to regain her normal cool composure when she reached the shop at the mall. Frank, the security guard has just opened the shop, was switching on the lamps and adjusting the security settings in the shop when she made her appearance.

"Hi...good morning ! Miss Annie, how are you today"?

He looked cheerful, happy and was smiling brightly.
Recently he has been off-color because of his break-up with his Mexican girlfriend of one year who he found out just a month later after divorcing his second wife of two years. This second wife eloped with one of his friends. The first wife filed for divorce because of his illicit affairs.

"Hello Frank....me good...how about you? You look so happy today..."

"Well, thanks mam...the weather is wonderful, you know"...He smiled broadly.

"Yeah... right..!" She agreed. Some girl might have fallen for him,who knows !

She glanced at the clock while walking towards the changing room to change into her work attire and apply a light makeup before commencing the day's work.

Twenty more minutes to start work. She entered the room and was about to close the door when someone began knocking on it.

She opened the door.

It was Frank. He was holding an envelope in his hand.

"Sorry to disturb you mam...yesterday the manager gave me this to hand over to you when come today. He couldn't give this to you yesterday because you were on leave."

He slowly handed her over the blue envelope.

"It's ok...Frank, thank you."

She examined the envelope carefully after closing the door.
She saw her name and address typed clearly but couldn't find any sender's address on the envelope.
So it's not anything official. What's in it ? Who is the sender ?

She was about to open it when she heard a soft knock on the door.

"Hi Annie..it's me..." Emma, her close friend and colleague.

She opened her handbag and deposited carefully the envelope inside it and then opened the door.

"Good morning dear...how did your shopping go yesterday"?

"Good Emma,...it was wonderful". And she told her briefly about the lipsticks and clothes she purchased while both them changed into their work attire.

Soon they were out into the shop and began arranging their work stations, Annie the perfume section and Emma the cosmetics section.

To be continued...

Friday, July 11, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Continued....

"Hello....Nice, isn't it?"

The voice was deep, very much masculine with a perfect accent. She blushed while looking up at the handsome smiling face of the man standing beside her. He was tall and looked athletic in his high-end casual attire.


The cologne was definitely expensive, she decided, noting the fragrance.

"Well...really beautiful, the craftsmanship is excellent, the price doesn't matter if the right person wears it."

Again that beautiful smile showing spotless white teeth - natural !? or chemical or laser whitening of teeth ?!
Well...here is a well-groomed smart gentleman....

"Yes, yes..er....good"...She felt nervous acknowledging his comments.

She straightened up, smiled at him and again adjusted her spectacles. This has become a habit adjusting the spectacles over her nose mostly during periods of pauses during activities of life. She uses contact lenses only during parties and important functions to look better during photo shootouts to avoid the flash reflection on the spectacles glasses.

The man stood there smiling watching her as she slowly started walking towards the mall. She resisted the urge to look back at him and was still blushing but she could not figure why she felt so nervous.

Almost everyday she encounters guys who flirt, rich men trying to impress upon and so on. Being professionally trained in sales she knew where to draw a line clearly and at what time to do it precisely in such encounters. She never wanted to be labelled as a flirt girl and was ambitious in life. Moreover, she considered the present job just to improve her finances to take up a Masters course in Sales and Marketing and she has already signed up for the next semester opening the coming year. She knew she will fly high upon completion of her course in the prestigeous, world renowed University nearby.

She could not understand why she felt strange in the presence of this stranger. Such a feeling never occurred even during the two dates she had in her life. Both of them almost became her boyfriends. But the relationship never deepened though she became intimate with both the men. She never felt any nervousness with them or with anyone so far for that matter.

The second guy David was really smart. She used to laugh hearing him crack jokes. He was a filthy rich romantic guy and fell head over heels for her.

The first one was a very handsome painter. He was the most handsome man she has ever seen. She modelled for him so many times and the guy never got tired painting her.

Why they two drifted apart is still a big mystery for her and sometimes she laughs thinking about it. Maybe the love was immature, or was there any love in the real sense !?

It was not love - was her friend's conclusion when she one day told about her relationships during a girlish chat.
There was no formal breakup or anything, they just drifted apart, that was simply it. She never had any bad feelings nor was she heartbroken. Probably them too !

Where are they now, God only knows, she never bothered actively to search for them.

To be continued...

Monday, July 7, 2008

Blossoming roses of love

Today's post is a wonderful story written by one of my friends who has kindly allowed me to post it in my blog. I hope all my readers also will like it. The story is not a 'short' story, so I will be posting the continuation in the coming days.

Enjoy reading !



Month of May...and its spring time !


It was a beautiful morning. The cool air felt fresh, it was lovely to see the beautiful flowers and hear the birds chirping. Annie looked at her wrist watch as she walked along the pavement, adjusting her spectacles.

It's only 8:10 AM.

Still very early and she has more than enough time to reach her work place.

Annie has a habit of not rushing through anything and is always early everywhere. She gets up early, starts early for work and is regarded as the best employee in the world famous perfumes outlet at the biggest shopping mall in the city.

As she walked past the jewellery shop on the way she noticed the beautiful necklace exhibited inside a small window protected by hard glass. The morning Sun's rays were getting reflected lightly from the small rows of precious stones studded on the golden chain. The design of the chain was unique giving it a smooth finish.

There were two rows of precious stones.
What attracted her more was the beautiful color of the stones,it was blue,her favorite color and everyday she made sure to wear something blue or carry a bluish accessory. Blue brings luck was her firm belief. Another luck thing she followed was growing her left ring finger nail little longer than the rest as advised by fortune teller - a Chinese woman.
She met during one of her visits to China town, a place little far away from the city.
The fortune teller told her some more things but she has kept all those as her secrets and never told anyone even to her close friend Emma. These 'silly' things make her smile sometimes.

Apart from such things she is regarded as a cool and level headed, responsible lady. She prided herself as a no-nonsense lady.

As she began admiring the necklace closely she noticed a pair of earrings alongside it placed over the beautiful, soft, velvety lining. This also was studded with very small bluish stones ! Well...there was one more cute thing...a beautiful ring with a perfectly cut stone. She decided it was a reflection the blue color because of the bluish color the jeweller painted at the base of the golden ring.
Marvellous !

The whole glittering spectacle mesmerized her and she began daydreaming wearing the jewellery not caring for the fact that the jewellery was well out of her reach being very expensive.

To be continued.....




Sunday, June 29, 2008

Boiled fish with vegetables or Tinolang isda

Every time I miss my mum's expertise in cooking I love to try this recipe....She's very resourceful and creative especially in cooking vegetables.
She cooks whatever vegetables she gets from the farm and what we already have in the kitchen.

When I had my vacation in the Philippines everybody in the house was surprised because I wanted to eat more vegetables instead of those meaty food. I told them that I'm already some kinda bored eating meat and I cook my own food here.

They couldn't believe that I'm already an expert cook here in the land of smiles hehehe...
Kidding aside I learned to love cooking, love to experiment whatever my taste buds like.

For everybody who likes to eat vegetables, I wanted to share this tasty, easy to prepare and healthy food, Tinolang isda. But eating vegetables alone is little difficult I know but this dish is prepared along with fish so you surely will enjoy this !



Ingredients

Fresh fish - 652 grams (any fish as preferred)
Shallot - 1 medium size
Ginger - 1 medium size
Tomato - 2 medium size
Pumpkin - 1 cup sliced
String beans - 1 cup sliced
Onion green leaves - 1 tablespoon sliced
Soya bean soy sauce - 1 1/2 table spoon
Salt - (as preferred)
Clean water - 2 cups

Preparation Time

25 - 30 minutes

Serves

3 - 5 people

Utensils Required

Cooking pot
Ladle
Cups
Spoon
Serving bowl

Preparation

  • Wash the fish very well 3 to 4 times
  • Boil 2 cups of clean water in a pot, first boil add sliced ginger, sliced shallot, sliced tomatoes, soya soy sauce and a little drop of iodized salt, cover the pot and let it cooked well
  • Add the fish and slightly boil it, then add vegetables and let it cook, avoid stirring so that the fish will not get pulverized
  • Finally add sliced onion green leaves and serve

Tuesday, June 24, 2008

Fried mashed banana or Maruya


Ingredients

Ripe banana - 1 bunch / 20 pcs (Saba variety)
Glutinous rice flour - 2 cups
Fresh eggs - 4 pcs
Vegetable cooking oil - 250 ml
Refined sugar (white) - (as preferred)



Preparation Time

45 minutes to 1 hour

Serves

8 - 10 people

Utensils Required

Cooking pan
Ladle
Spoon
Egg beater
Mixer (a big bowl or any container for mixing ingredients)

Preparation

  • Wash and peel off the riped banana and mash very well, then beat the 4 eggs and slowly pour into the mixture of mashed banana already made
  • Gradually add the rice flour and mix it and mash well into above mixture until it become sticky
  • Heat the pan and pour 250 ml vegetable cooking oil
  • Be sure that the vegetable cooking oil is heated very well so that the mashed banana won't stick to the pan
  • Scoop the mashed banana mixture with spoon and fry until the color becomes golden brown
  • Finally, serve it with little drops of refined sugar and a glass of fruit juice
Tasty....yummy....try this....sure you will like this !!!!





Sunday, June 22, 2008

Where are they ?


Sun and Moon
Where are they?
They are there
Up and up, in the sky !

Stars and Clouds
Where are they?
They are there
Up and up, in the sky !

Lightning and Thunder
Where are they?
They are there
Up and up, in the sky !

Angels and Rainbow
Where are they?
They are there
Up and up, in the sky !

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Precious gifts of life !

My dear friends,
After a few days of relaxation (just a sort of unwinding) and get off from computer, I didn't update my blogs for almost 6 days. It doesn't make sense ! You know blogging has already become my passion. Now I'm back.....I'm happy to tell you about my latest blog; http://www.preciousgiftsoflife.blogspot.com
Feel free to visit and let's exchange link.
Enjoy reading !

Friday, June 13, 2008

Chicken adobo - Filipino dish


Ingredients

Chicken meat (preferably thighs) - 652 grams
1 Knorr chicken cube
2 Tablespoons distilled vinegar
3 Tablespoons maggi soy sauce
1 Teaspoon refined sugar (white)
1/2 Teaspoon iodized salt
4 Cloves minced garlic
1 Head sliced onion
A little black pepper

Preparation Time 25 - 30 minutes

Serves

2 - 3 people

Utensils

Chopping board
Kitchen knife
Cooking pan
Ladle
A container for mixing ingredients
Serving ware (plate)

Preparation

  • Clean the meat very well with salt and vinegar and rinse 2 times ( so that it won't be smelly)
  • Drain the water and put into a mixer container
  • Put the ingredients - sliced onion, minced garlic, salt, sugar, black pepper, vinegar, soy sauce and mix everything very well
  • After mixing, put into a cooking pan in medium heat then let it boil
  • First boil, add one knorr chicken cube and let it boil until it become sticky ( there should not be liquid remaining )
  • Finally, be sure that the meat is cooked well and serve hot

Sunday, June 8, 2008

A promise - Pad Thai

Dear Josie,

I kept up my promise, here's the recipe of Pad Thai.
I shared this dish with my friends....they liked it very much....I can't send it to you because you are faraway....but one day we will meet in real and then I will cook a better one for you. Well, my Pad Thai was little overcooked...hehehehe...Enjoy!

Thanks.


Ingredients

Rice noodles - 300 grams
Fresh shrimps in medium size - 60 grams
Egg - 1 pc.
Ground peanuts - 2 tablespoons
Cooking oil - 3 tablespoon
Pad Thai sauce pack (included in rice noodle)
Lemon - 1 pc.
Celery, Onion green leaves (for garnishing)
bean sprouts, banana blossom (as preferred)

Preparation Time

20 - 30 minutes

Serves

2 - 3 people

Utensils Required

Cooking pan
Ladle
Kitchen knife
Chopping board
Serving ware (or large serving plate)


Preparation

* Cook rice noodle in about 4 cups of boiling water for 2 - 3 minutes or until noodle is slightly cooked.
* Drain and take aside.
* Stir-fry 60 grams of shrimps and 1 egg in 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil until cooked.
* Open the sauce pack, and stir-in contents and cooked noodle.
* Add bean sprouts and grounded peanuts as you preferred.
* Garnish with lemon, celery or green onion leaves and banana blossom.


Here it is!
Enjoy!







Saturday, June 7, 2008

Despedida party....Sky buffet

Sky Buffet...experienced the great dinner ! It's in the 33rd floor of Lee Garden Plaza Hotel Hatyai, Songkhla. They are open every night at 17:30 PM - 22:00 PM. It's the best place for gatherings that is affordable and there you can get excellent food, no doubt about it ! Yes....eat all you can ! It's free to choose.... many varieties of food....just for 159 Bath only !

http://www.leeplaza.com/leeplaza_new/skybuffet.html

Here are some of the snaps.....

CHEERS!... Well I don't drink so its not any hard drinks in my glass. It is just water...but cheers!

My plate hehehe....blanched cauliflower, string beans, young corn, chinese pechai, fried chicken and steamed fish...Note the culinary art of Thai cuisine...

Salad

Fruits

Ice cream

Thai sweets

Tea