Christmas tree is here...

One of my close friends hosts a tree decorating party at her place every year. Its a sweet tradition, all the friends get together to kick off the Christmas spirit and join in the festivities. 

The highlight of this weekend was the tree decorating for sure! I love the reds and the greens of Christmas and the numerous candles that add to the charm.

There was lots of mouth watering food- ofcourse, no party without the food. It was a snacks potluck. We started with corn and black bean dip with tortilla chips & paneer pinwheels followed by gol gappe & aloo badas, and finally the pav bhaji. For dessert, we had sacher torte cake which was totally delicious! ( Sorry, I have no photos of the food, as I was too busy eating it!)

I'm linking to the Xmas Decor & Delights carnival at The KeyBunch and the Weekend wrap-up at Colours Dekor. 

Escape to tranquility

Wouldn't you just love to go and stay in one of these rooms for a few days?

And spend some time relaxing here....

All images via here

All these places are in Rajasthan, India- forts & havelis converted into hotels. The charming interiors of the rooms, the gorgeous walls, the delightful rajasthani furnishings and artwork, the serene exteriors, the stunning views, all seem extremely inviting.  Even though my stay in India is packed- with two weddings in the family- I'm so tempted to stay in one of these places even for just a couple of days.

India on my mind

I am going for my annual India trip beginning of next month and these days all I can think of is all the shopping that I have plans for once I'm there. I'm super excited!!!

I have browsed the web and so many blogs for all possible shopping resources. I have a long list of places to shop- some of them are my all time favorites (read dilli haat & fabindia) and some newer stores.

As I'll be in and around Delhi for most part of the stay, here's a list of all the the stores and places that I'll be going to-

1. Mora Taara
2. Varya
3. MaxiMum store
4. Fabindia
5. Good Earth
6. Santushti complex
7. Crafts museum
8. Janpath
9. Cottage Emporium
10. Dilli haat
11. Renovation Factory (Khan Market)
12. People Tree near Janpath  

I am thankful to all the bloggers out there who have helped me in finding about all the wonderful shopping places for Indian handicrafts.

Anyone who lives in Delhi or knows about the place, please, please can you suggest any other interesting place that I could add to my list?