Chores chores

Did a lot of physical work. Nothing exciting. Just back breaking household chores that had piled up alarmingly since I moved to the new house. Reminded me of the days in US without a maid. I dusted, swept, mopped, did the dishes, the laundry till my back and my hands started hurting. I feel a certain exhilaration after physical exertion, a sense of triumph. I wish it were something better though - maybe a long run, planting a flower bed, carpentry, maybe etching glass.

Late in the night after finishing up, I unrolled my long forgotten yoga mat on the now spotless floor and did some yoga listening to Jazz. Then reclined on my favourite chair and listened to the rain lashing on the deserted street. Peace.

Dowry

My chauffer's sister was married off recently. He had borrowed an exorbitant amount of money from many of his friends (and his employer, I should add). Apparently the bridegroom's demands grew quite a bit more than what he had saved. After listening to his tale of repayment woes, I gave him a very sensible suggestion. I told him to get married.

Xanadu

Finished reading WD's "In Xanadu". I opened the book with much anticipation, since it was highly recommended and found the beginning somewhat disappointing. It seemed too much of raw history and no personal touch. Then the journey takes them and us to Turkey. After Turkey, the pace improved and I found it more and more enjoyable. I found William Dalrymple funny, curious, erudite and most of all sympathetic to the cultures he crosses. Made me add more stuff to my wish list.

The wide-eyed enthusiast who recommended the book, while recounting, mentioned "they both are almost there, when the authorities catch them. his girl friend bursts out crying. and then..". Turns out she doesn't. Its Dalrymple who feels like bursting into tears. Goes to show.

Politics

Two women have surprised me by their show of political maturity. First is Sonia Gandhi refusing the post of prime minister. Without going into what motivated her - altruism or clever maneuvering, I think this is the best decision she could have made. She has come off stumping BJP and the sangh parivar of their prize issue and the very vocal critics through out the country. Atleast for the moment. It is also the best decision considering whoever is going to become the prime minister has the unpleasant job of keeping the left and the tremulous coalition happy.

Second is Jayalalitha. Amma has managed to completely surprise me by revoking a lot of her acts. Again, shows great political maturity to bow to the electorate and recognize mistakes and repeal acts if necessary. It is pointless to criticize that she has done it after the election rout, especially the one time when she hadnt shown her arrogance.

Flower tree - 2

Found the name. Tabebuia. How ever did I manage before the internet.