Dec 31, 2012

New year !


Kid stuff


My Kid Just Said… 

[Christmas morning]

“Whu’s dat? A pwesent? Fo MEEE??? Whu’s in it?”

[1 minute later]

“I can’t open da wapping. It keeps wipping. Oh WOOK! TWAINS!!!”

[.0001 seconds later]

“I wead da ‘stwuctions and you buiwd it, okay, Daddy?”

[100 minutes or so later]

“It’s not wook wight, Daddy. Hewe ya go. You can have da ‘stwuctions but juuuuust fo one minute!”

[10 minutes later]

“Watch da twain go down, Daddy! YAAAYYYYY!!!”
There’s always that first Christmas for your kid. Not the actual offical First Christmas that we all know “doesn’t count,” where you the parent spent most of your time on drool management and trying to prop their little bobble-heads up long enough for a family photo. I mean the one where your kid first GETS it, where they first fling out their little arms and YAY at the top of their lungs.
–Andy
 

[1 minute later]

“Daddy, I bwoke da twain twacks again. You pwease fix it?”


My Kid Just Interrupted… #13

Posted by  on November 22nd, 2012, under "MY KID JUST SAID..."

[Talking at dinner, our 3yo interrupts]

Lucas: “Mouskerdee MOUSKERDOOOOOO!!!”
Lizzie: “Lucas, we’re talki—”
Lucas: “Wus DAT!?!”
Me: “It’s turkey, man. C’mon, we’re talkin—”
Lucas: “I do NOT wike it!”
Lizzie: “Yes, it’s a different kind, but it’s still turk—”
Lucas: “I pooping in my underwear.”
Lizzie: “Come here, let me check.”

[She pulls open his waistband and, as if she pulled a string on his back, he rips a thunder fart]

Lucas: “See. Das poop.”

[She changes the unlucky underwear and returns]

Lizzie: “What were we talking about?”

[I shake my head in wonder, as well as to say that I have absolutely no idea what we were talking about]


My Kid Just Said… #7

Posted by  on August 21st, 2012, under "MY KID JUST SAID..."
[Sigh] “I feel so relaxed. Like I just peed.” [Everyone bursts out laughing] What!?!It makes you feel relaxed!” -Max (2010, 10 years old)
 
Max fallen asleep in the carRelaxation Level: Max.


We all voiced our agreement by laughing even harder.
He was right! It’s true. It’s not something you talk about over tea and crumpets. Or ever really. Still, it’s true. The harder the need to go pee, the more relieving and relaxing the release.





My Kid Just Said… #6

Posted by  on July 24th, 2012, under "MY KID JUST SAID..."
[Lucas (3yo) looking at a picture of himself]“Da’s Wucas!”
Me: “No, you’re supposed to say ‘that’s me.’”
[long pause accompanied by scrunchy nose of disapproval] “No, Daddy! It not yooOooOooOU! It WUCAS!” -Lucas

Dec 22, 2012

Professional Photographs



How to Take Professional 


Photographs - Without the

 

Expensive Equipment


Shaun Emerson

Oct 30, 2012

Beauty secrets : Multani Mitti

I was 20 when during my monthly eye brow shaping,my beautician was like you should try a facial.But I refused As my skin has been always too sensitive and the marks of anything and everything from simple burns to blemishes takes years to fade off.That's when she told me about multani mitti.As usual I didn't pay any attention initially but she was like,you can clean your face weekly with this mud pack made with rose water and your skin would be simply clean.I tried it whenever my eyes caught hold of the pack in my cupboard.Then 10 years later,it again became a staple in my cupboard but now I use it every week.

What is Multani mitti?

Its a type of mud,smells like clean mud and feels like mud on your skin.I reckon if one uses chemicals like bleach on the face,this would be a lovely soothing alternative in your beauty regimen.

I buy this chunk of of this rock like thing and sit at home and break them into small pieces and grind them in a mortar and pestle.I was scared to use my grinder,so I thought why not do it the old fashioned way.A small chunk makes quite a lot of powder and can come of use for months.

Multani Mitti is also called Fuller's earth.Now quality may differ if you are buying brands.I don't know of any brand,like I said I buy the chunk and powder it.

Benefits of Multani mitti aka Fuller's earth:

1. Improve health of the skin


Facial mask are very effective and not only make your skin glow, but also improve its health as well. Multani mitti will help to make you skin radiant and appealing by getting rid of blemishes and acne's. On the other hand, it also hydrates the skin, clear up black heads and whiteheads, and flush out toxins. Deep cleansing multani mitti will remove all the impurities and dead skin cells so that that the cream you use is absorbed more easily into the skin, leaving you feeling glowing and refreshed than ever before!

2. Reduces hair loss

Hair loss is normally temporary and is often triggered by hormonal problems, stress and post hormonal changes during delivery. Also, a deficiency in essential nutrients like iron, zinc and protein can cause falling of hair. Regularly wash you hair with multani mitti to prevent hair loss.


3. Removes acne and other blemishes

The removal of skin blemishes and acne scars sounds less painful as opposed to trying to achieve the same thing through skin peels and lasers don’t you think? There is a variety of ways you can use to treat blemishes, but you need to be consistent with the preferred treatment. Facial mask or multani mitti is a popular remedy that you can use to reduce swelling and redness of the skin.


Girls now take so much care in their appearance as early as 12 yrs of age.But I was from the old fashioned flock.I knew I wasn't that pretty,so i didn't tense up myself over caring for my appearance at all.A tomboy and 11 yrs after being married,my husband says I still have a lot of tom boyishness in me.Frankly I love it.
I couldn't be like," Ooooueee....I cannot go out in public coz I have 2mm hair growth on my arms and legs." or
 " No way is any human being laying eyes on me when I have this not that visible mustache on my upper lip."

Just remember a few simple rules,use a good quality herbal soap,wash your face after travelling anywhere,don't drape your face with cosmetics,let your skin breathe,try to keep your skin care regimen chemical free as much as possible.Invest in good quality moisturisers and cosmetics and use as little as you can.   Now how I use multani mitti is,mix half a tsp of mitti with rose water.Mix well and apply on face.Keep it on for 15 mins and wash off with warm water.That's it. But there are many other ways which I will list below :   1. Multani mitti is an excellent cleanser for your skin. Blend fuller’s earth, sandalwood powder and rose water together to make a fine paste. Dab this wonderful preparation on your face and neck. This face mask helps to lighten and brighten your skin on continuous use.   2. Take 1 spoon of multani mitti, 1 spoon of mint powder and 1 spoon of curd each. Soak up the multani mitti in curd for half an hour,next add the mint powder to it. Apply this mask on your face and neck; wash off after 20 minutes. This home remedy is opt for eliminating dark patches.


3. Take carrot pulp, multani mitti and 2 spoons of olive oil to make a fine paste; apply on the scar -affected areas.



4.You can mix multani mitti /fuller’s earth with orange peel powder and milk to apply on your skin. This mask gives sparkling fresh and fair skin without any trace of greasiness on your skin.



5.. Apply 2 spoons of multani mitti with 1.5 spoons of coconut water and ¼ spoon of sugar on the face. Leave it on for 15 minutes. This remedy cures suntan and soothes the skin.



6.Take multani mitti with egg and water to apply on face for 15 minutes.Use this mask to tighten your sagging and aged skin.








Oct 9, 2012

Gratefulness



The weather has gotten a bit better today.Until now for a fortnight,it has been extremely humid and hot.Who says weather doesn't affect your mood and well being ! With the slight change in weather came the seasonal flu and cough and that cannot make anything feel no better,no matter how much you are jacked up on antibiotics.

One is just not happy with life isn't it.You would think that a housewife who "doesn't do anything" should be the one who should be happiest,no,it isn't.I'm a housewife with no kids.Not that I hate my life.I always dreamed of being a housewife with a bunch of kids.But I didn't get the latter,so I'm unhappy.Then I have friends,who work and have kids and they hate their life coz they cannot spend quality or quantity of any time for their kids.The very reason they work their asses off.They dream of being there and see them grow.Then you have housewife with kids and they are going crazy watching their kids,spending every waking second listening to the same fights and nagging and they wish they had an alternative life.

In the end human being,being the emotional intelligent being,is just not happy with anything in their life.They always think and dream,things could have been better and more dramatic.

People out there think they never make enough money.But in the realization of "not making making much",one realises they are actually still poor according to the standard norms of which they want to achieve.So they feel depressed and incomplete coz they haven't got there yet.Again no happiness there. then you have people who make buckets of money,but they have rearranged their priorities and lifestyles to such an extent,that they again feel ...it just ain't enough.If only....!

One who is ill feels,if only they were healthier they would change this or that about their life and lead great lives.But people don't.One who healthy will live the laziest ungrateful life coz they feel they are lucky to be so.
We humans are ungrateful,complaining beings.We compete for everything and yet when you achieve something,you feel inadequate.We are so stupid at times to be just be happy for just being.

When I wake up in the morning or before I sleep ,I pray.I pray through all my aches,pains,sadness in my heart and illnesses....I pray actually to God to have mercy on me for making an effort to be grateful for my health and life coz sometimes,I detest everything.I ask him to pardon me for hating everything but even then,I feel I should be grateful.Its actually a conscious effort coz being thankful for life as it is,comes with so much doubt.I assume if Iam grateful everyday in my thoughts,eventually I will be grateful for everything from my heart.

Maybe I need a vacation ...a change of pace of life...a little of enjoying and relaxing.But nothing changes the fact that we as human being are actually very ungrateful.

Sep 25, 2012

Woman

I heard this poem in a movie long back.It was a movie about a couple of African American  women but the rest is sort of vague.

In a world where everyone is becoming finicky or are being taught to do so,we sometimes forget the essence of a woman is not whats on her but rather in her.Outward appearances are given so much of a priority in these times and men being men....at least most of them,they seek their appeal on how a woman makes them feel down there..than what actually is really admirable about her.Anyways,

Its "Phenomenal Woman " by Maya Angelou.



Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.

I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.


I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.


Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them
They say they still can't see.
I say,
It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.


Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.





Looks I adore......

Sep 3, 2012

Arthritis

This topic will interest a whole lot of people as rheumatism and arthritis are one of the many diseases people have today and it can range among kids as well as young and old.

I have been suffering from RA (rheumatoid arthritis) for around 4 years now.It started when I crossed 30 and as usual I have inherited this from my family.Rheumatism according to modern science is a kind of a blood disorder and those who suffer from it know its something that changes your life altogether.Some don't have so much pain while some find it difficult to do even the simple daily chores of life.I know the hard way.I know the value of doing something as simple as holding a spoon or a brush or using the toilet and even walking.I remember screaming in pain as I couldn't get up from my bed or chair and needed help to even sit up straight ad having no help whatsoever other than my husband who could assist me when he came back from work.I remember all those nights when I cried in my sleep,wetting my pillow and asking God to just grant me death.Even thinking about the pain wells my eyes up.

But......this disease made me see things and approach life in a totally different way.I learnt my strengths and my  weaknesses.I learnt how to use my other hand if one wasn't functioning,I learnt how to hop or drag myself to the toilet,I learnt of ways to get up from my bed....it was painstaking but I learnt and I'm proud of myself.I guess I became deeper friends with God in such times of horror in my life.Anyways,for those who don't get it,people it is horrible and lets Praise Allah for giving us good health and alive today.

The purpose here is not to describe the disease or share my scary times.I'm just going to write a few natural things I have come to know and use to help alleviate my pain and help me lead a better life.

Firstly,I take a whole range of western medications for my RA.That includes calcium tablets initially,vitamin D tablets,Sulphasalazine for RA,Methotrexate as well both in the form of tablets or injections( they are chemotherapy drugs used in autoimmune diseases,cancer,etc).Now these medications have sort of improved my condition but it being antifolate and antimetabolite,has decreased my haemoglobin count and and as it weakens the immune system,I started losing my hair slowly,have major dark circles but in the end,I would anything to just live a day with no pain.I also take prednisolone regularly and actually cannot survive a weak without it.Its no picnic having such strong medications but I don't want to land on a wheelchair or on a bed for months ever again.

Anyways,some alternate things to help out.

1) My doctor says I should avoid eating meat but I have read eating camel's meat once in a while is okay as it is lean and healthy.

2) Camel Milk traditionally has been suggested for auto immune disease sufferers.Also Camel Urine.Don't go yuck but I guess when you have gone through bad pain episodes,you would gulp down in a jiffy.I put up an article on Camel on my blog in detail,read it if its of any interest to you.

3)My husband brought me Ostrich oil recently and I must say it is a wondrous oil.When I applied them on my aching joints,It went numb after a few minutes.I mean it gave me instant relief.Better than taking Tramadol right.Yeah I take those when I cant bear it anymore.

SO  I will jot down a few things about Ostrich oil so you can read a few benefits of this oil.

Ostrich oil has long been used in ancient Egyptian, Roman and African cultures for both medicinal and cosmetic benefits. Ostrich oil is a wonderful moisturizer and diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and is said to have been used by Cleopatra as a part of her skin care routine.


Today, scientists are re-discovering the benefits of ostrich oil. This oil is very high in essential fatty acids, omega 3, 6 and 9 and is completely non-comedogenic (will not clog pores). Because the molecules are almost identical to human skin and are even smaller than the molecules in human skin, the oil is quickly absorbed and does not sit on top of the skin as do so many moisturizers.
Emu oil also has been long touted as beneficial to the skin, but ostrich oil is found to have an even higher content of omega 3,6 and 9. These fatty acids are essential for cell growth, division and recovery. Ostrich oil is said to be great to use on burns, bedsores, eczema, insect bites, skin rashes and dry skin. Ostrich oil has been found to be both anti-inflammatory anti-fungal. Because ostrich oil is anti-inflammatory, it can be used for such conditions as rosacea, eczema, psoriasis and even gouty arthritic joints.


The oil is becoming more popular today and is being added to numerous skin care products. It contains numerous essential fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 and is also almost completely non-comedogenic. This means that it doesn’t block the pores because the molecules in the oil are almost identical to human skin, except they are even smaller. The oil can sink into the skin with ease compared to other moisturizers, making it perfect for all skin types.


It has also been used to lessen the appearance of stretch marks, cellulite and scars, by promoting cell renewal and by hydrating the problem areas of skin.


Ostrich oil has helped a large number of people with a large number of skin ailments, but unfortunately, all data is at this point anecdotal, so we don’t really know the long-term effects of ostrich oil. That being said, you could try using ostrich oil products for your skin complaint – just make sure that you have regular check-ups with a doctor to ensure that if you have any adverse side effects, you can get immediate medical attention.


Arthritis Herbal Remedies


Turmeric Eases Joint Pain

Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial against rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and is able to neutralize free radicals that cause havoc on the joints. Regular usage of turmeric can shorten the duration of morning stiffness, longer walking time and reduced joint swelling. Turmeric is also effective with Osteoarthritis in its ability to reduce pain and disability.
Ginger Remedy For Arthritis

Ginger contains a chemical called Zingibain which is analgesic in nature and reduces pain caused by muscle aches, arthritis, headache, migraine, etc. Ginger oil or ginger paste can be added to the massaging oil to soothe the aching muscles. A decoction of dry ginger and castor roots can be taken every morning for lubrication of the joints and relief from pain.

Ashwagandha Acts Against Joint Pain

Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory and tonic properties and is a wonderful supplement for rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical studies have shown that naturally occurring steroid like compounds in Ashwaganda are as effective in the management of inflammation as the synthetically manufactured hydrocortisone. The pain relieving ability is comparable to aspirin and phenybutazone without the unsavory side-effects.


Garlic Reduces Joint Pain

Consume a crushed garlic decoction daily to soothe those aching joints. In clinical studies, garlic has shown to reduce pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It also inhibits the formation of free radicals that accelerate joint damage.

Guggulu Arthritis Remedy

Guggulu is an anti-inflammatory and a pain reducing herb. You could consume 250 mg capsules twice daily with warm milk

Capsaicin Application For Arthritis

To ease the pain of arthritis, apply a cream containing capsaicin, an active ingredient in cayenne pepper to the painful areas.

Devil's Claw Treats Arthritis

Devil's claw is a popular treatment for osteoarthritis as it can improve pain, range of motion and the time needed to recover from stiffness.

Camphor Stimulation For Arthritis

Camphor is a detoxifier and a stimulant on the circulatory system and as such it excites the blood circulation and gives relief in rheumatism, arthritis, gout, etc. It is also anti phlogistic - it reduces swelling of body parts. Pieces of camphor can be added to sesame or mustard oil and used for this application.

  • Kalonji oil/onion seed oil/Nigella sativa seed oil :
Take one spoon of vinegar, add half tea spoon of Kalonji oil and mix two spoons honey, use twice a day (In the morning before the breakfast and in the night after dinner)





Dos and don'ts


Following is the diet suggested for the patients suffering form arthritis:

• Vegetable juices and soups

• Coconut water

• Coconut milk

• Carrot juice

• Beet root juice

• Cucumber juice

• Cooked vegetables like squash, zucchini and pumpkin

• Spices like cumin, coriander, ginger, asafetida, garlic, fennel and turmeric Green salad with a dressing of lemon juice and a little salt

• Khichadi (recipe made by cooking rice and mung dal )

• Regular physical exercise and massage with oil should form an important part of the routine.



The patient of arthritis must avoid the following:

• Eating hot, spicy and fried foods, sweets, wind forming foods like cabbage, Cauliflower, spinach, broccoli, okra and potatoes.

• Too much tea, coffee, alcohol, white sugar, yogurt, chocolate, cocoa.

• Antibiotics, painkillers, steroids and nicotine

• Sleeping during the day

• Staying up late at night

• Mental tensions like worry, anxiety, fear, stress and grief.














Sep 2, 2012

Dal Kulfa recipe

Lets clear these Indian names first. 

Dal means Lentils and there are so many varieties of them.Most of them are cooked in almost the same manner,but a few of them are cooked with Milk,few of them are added in combination with other dals.A few of these can be combined with mutton or chicken ( cooking these differ a bit).Also they can be cooked with a variety of vegetables and green leaves like spinach,purslane or saag.In the end dal is a wholesome meal on its own,eaten either with rice or rotis or in the form of soup.If you learn to cook it well,then good for you.They say the simplest things are sometimes the tricky ones to cook.Too much blabbering....okay lets move on.

Kulfa is Purslane leaves.My hubby says they are cooling things..in the sense...you can eat them in the summers.Spinach is a heaty thing I've heard.Anyone wants to correct me anywhere,please go ahead.

I used red lentils as they are my favourite,they cook faster and I love to eat it with rice,matta rice or basmati rice,your choice.

2 bunches of kulfas.The leaves have to be plucked and washed and kept aside.For 2 people or 3,
2 cups of red lentils,washed well and kept aside.

I use a pressure cooker coz its faster but if you have a normal vessel with a good lid,that's perfect too.Add the lentils,add 4 cups of water or the water level should be at least an inch and half above the lentils.Now add the leaves directly,add half a tsp of turmeric powder,salt to taste,red chilly powder and a few green chillies.( you know your spice limit,so adjust,we Indians love our chillies and that's what makes us hot ;>)

Close the lid.If its a pressure cooker,then I think a mere 8 minutes will do,if its not a cooker,then close the lid and keep checking.The dal will cook and so will the leaves.You don't want a paste or you don't want the contents to stick to the bottom of the pan.Keep stirring if not using a cooker.

Now the main thing.Its called the tadka( don't remember what its called in English right now),I guess tempering.

Using clarified butter or ghee is the perfect thing here but you can use sunflower or any vegetable oil you like.Olive oil will render a different taste.I normally use sunflower oil and rarely ghee.
3/4ths of a cup of oil in a small shallow frying pan.To it,add an inch of finely chopped ginger,half an onion finely sliced,2 tsp of garlic chopped fine,half a tsp of mustard seeds,half a tsp of jeera or cumin seeds,a pinch of hing or asafoetida and 2 dried red chillies and curry leaves.When the garlic gets golden Brown,switch the gas off ( shouldn't be on high heat anyways) and directly add it to the Dal-leaf mixture.

Close the lid after mixing it in well and let it sit on simmer for at least 15 minutes on slow heat.If the Dal is thick,add water to make it a little watery like consistency.

That's Dal kulfa for you my way.

Aug 13, 2012

Common Dreams And Their Meanings

Everyone dreams (even if we don’t always remember them after the fact) and researchers have found that the majority of us have dreams with similar themes. For years people have tried to interpret the fleeting images that we see when we go to sleep – some interpretations are outright bizarre, while others are pretty understandable.

Car Troubles

In these types of dreams you are usually in or near a car or some other type of vehicle which is out of control or has other problems that seem insurmountable. For example, the brakes may have failed, you may have lost control of the steering, or be heading over a cliff or crashing. You can either be the driver or the passenger. This is a very common type of nightmare and it occurs in all people – not just those who can drive. This dream usually means that you are feeling powerless over something in your life – or that you are heading for a crash (metaphorically speaking).


Faulty Machinery

In the faulty machinery dream you are trying to operate mechanical equipment which either fails to work, or fails to work in the way that you expect it to. The vast majority of these dreams involve a telephone – either trouble dialing, losing a connection, or dialing a wrong number. It can involve a lost Internet connection, or something manual like a jammed or broken machine. This dream often means that you feel you are losing touch with reality, or that a part of your body or mind is not functioning as it should. It can also occur when you are feeling anxious about making a connection with another person in real life.


Lost or Trapped

Dreaming about being lost is very common and will usually occur when you are having conflict in deciding how to react in a situation in real life. In the dream you are trying to find your way out of an area – such as a forest, city streets, a large building, or other maze-like structure. Another way this dream plays out involves you being trapped, buried alive, caught in a web, or unable to move for some other reason. This is often accompanied by a feeling of terror. This dream usually means that you are trapped in real life – unable to make the right choice.


Missed a Boat or Plane

In this type of dream you are rushing to catch a bus, train, plane, or other type of public transport – but you miss it – usually by a fraction of a second. Rather than feeling fear in this dream, you usually feel frustration. This dream can also occur in a different form, in which you arrive late for an important performance or sporting event that you are supposed to participate in, only to find that the event has already begun. This dream usually means that you feel that you have missed out on an important opportunity in your real life. It will often occur when you are struggling over an important decision.


Failing a Test

This dream usually manifests itself in people who have been out of school for a long time. In the dream you are prevented from passing a test in a variety of different possible scenarios. In one scenario you find that you are unable to make it to the test on time, often through being unable to find the test room. In other versions you are unprepared (either through lack of study) or you are missing equipment. This dream usually means that you are feeling tested in some way in your real life. You may feel that you are unprepared for something or playing the wrong part in life.


Ill or Dying

In this dream, you (or a loved one) are ill, injured, or dying. It is a moderately common dream and, not surprisingly, occurs often at the onset of an illness. Aside from becoming ill, this dream can mean that you are emotionally hurt or are afraid of becoming hurt. The dream may also be warning you of an upcoming physical risk to yourself or a loved one. When it is someone else in the dream that dies, it can mean that you feel that part of yourself (that you see represented by that person) is dead. It may also mean that you wish the person would go away, or that you fear losing them.


Being Chased

Dreaming of being chased can be a truly horrifying experience. Most often the chaser is a monster or some person that is frightening, and occasionally it may be an animal. You may be surprised to know that this is the most commonly experienced nightmare theme. The meaning of these dreams is that someone, something (possibly something as obscure as an emotion) is making you feel threatened. One way to determine the root of the threat is to ask yourself who or what in your real life most closely resembles the “creature” or circumstance in your dream. It is also worth noting that sometimes this dream is a replay of an actual event in your life.


Bad or Missing Teeth

Teeth dreams are fairly common and they usually involve the discovery of extremely decayed or missing teeth in your own mouth. Sometimes you will dream that you open your mouth and your teeth begin to fall out. The fact that the majority of people today have reasonable teeth (perhaps with the exception of the British), it is not surprising that we feel so emotionally disturbed by these dreams. So, what does it mean when we dream about missing teeth? At the most basic level it means that we are afraid of being found unattractive. At a deeper level, it can signify a fear of embarrassment or a loss of power in real life. Oh – I was just kidding about the “British” thing!


Dream Nudity

In this type of dream you are in a state of undress, partial undress, or inappropriate dress (for example wearing pajamas to work). Occasionally you are the witness of another person who is naked while you are clothed. This is often accompanied by feelings of embarrassment and shame, but occasionally with the feeling of pride or freedom. The meaning of this dream is that you are feeling exposed, awkward, or vulnerable, or you are afraid that you have revealed too much of yourself (such as a secret or a very personal feeling) in a real life situation. An interesting fact about this type of dream is that it occurs much more frequently in people who are involved in a wedding ceremony in their real life.


Falling or Sinking

We have all had falling dreams – it is such a common dream, in fact, that myths have arisen over them; the most common myth is, of course, that you will die if you hit the ground in the dream. I can assure you, having hit the ground in more than one falling dream, that this is not true at all. In the falling dream we are usually falling through the air and frightened. Occasionally we may be sinking in water (and in danger of drowning). Typically a person having this dream is feeling insecure or lacking in support in their waking life. These dreams often occur when you are overwhelmed in life and feel ready to give up. If you have this dream you should evaluate your current situation and try to locate the problem that is overwhelming you. Deal with it and this dream should go away.


School

Discipline. Instruction. You have the skills to resolve a problem. This type of dream relates to your current "lesson in life," and if you learn how to interpret it, you'll find out how you are progressing. If the people you used to know in your school are friendly toward you (especially people of the opposite sex), it can show you have a healthy self-esteem. This type of dream relates to your current "lesson in life," and if you learn how to interpret it, you'll find out how you are progressing. If the people you used to know in your school are friendly toward you (especially people of the opposite sex), it can show you have a healthy self-esteem. To dream of attending school, indicates distinction in literary work. If you think you are young and at school as in your youth, you will find that sorrow and reverses will make you sincerely long for the simple trusts and pleasures of days of yore. To dream of teaching a school, foretells that you will strive for literary attainments, but the bare necessities of life must first be forthcoming. To visit the schoolhouse of your childhood days, portends that discontent and discouraging incidents overshadows the present.

Sexual
Sexual dreams are usually very common for young individuals, and they are mainly straight forward. The need for sexual, love and care is in the root of every living creature.

Baby
Happiness. Rebirth. Trust. Happiness. Rebirth. Trust. As an object in dreams, a baby or child represents something that requires great care and attention. The meaning can change depending on whether it is your original responsibility or one that has been passed off on you by someone else. These dreams may also have wish-fulfilment content for women who are in their childbearing years. For men, the dreams may be anxiety-related, especially if you are sexually active without wanting to experience the consequences of fathering a child. As an object in dreams, a baby or child represents something that requires great care and attention. The meaning can change depending on whether it is your original responsibility or one that has been passed off on you by someone else. These dreams may also have wish-fulfilment content for women who are in their childbearing years. For men, the dreams may be anxiety-related, especially if you are sexually active without wanting to experience the consequences of fathering a child. To dream of crying babies, is indicative of ill health and disappointments. A bright, clean baby, denotes love requited, and many warm friends. Walking alone, it is a sure sign of independence and a total ignoring of smaller spirits. If a woman dream she is nursing a baby, she will be deceived by the one she trusts most. It is a bad sign to dream that you take your baby if sick with fever. You will have many sorrows of mind.

Food is knowledge. The saying “food for thought” comes from the idea that knowledge feeds the mind and soul just as physical food feeds and nourishes the physical body. Pay attention to what you are “feeding” yourself.


Games are the dreamer’s perspective of life. “Game of Life” or we can say the “games people play” and how they play them. Games have to do with learning skills, rules, talents, showmanship, training, practice, winning or losing, teamwork or solo performance.

Killing indicates change. Killing of yourself indicates a part of yourself and is a good thing when it is an undesirable trait, but a warning if the trait is a good quality. Killing of an animal is the killing of a habit that that animal or its qualities may represent to you. Killing can also be viewed as an expression, such as the death of a relationship or job.

Money symbolizes exchange value and worth. Things of value would be a new talent you weren’t aware you had, a new quality or gift within you. It could also represent a new vision or new understanding of something. Look at how you are receiving money/valuables to interpret how you feel about yourself.

Mountain is a challenge or obstacle. Depending on your mind set, you may see a mountain representation of something that you feel is an overwhelming obstacle, or you may view it positively as a great challenge you are ready to take on. A mountain can represent your life, your job and task you’re involved in, a project or a goal.

People. All people represent aspects or personality of the Self. These are characters in the dream – parts of you, some you know and some you don’t know. Some you don’t like and some you love. The successful businessman, the glamour girl, the bag lady, the playboy, the thief, the idiot, the comic, friends, relatives are all parts of our Self.

We are made up of many people. As in Shakespeare’s words, “All the world’s a stage and we are merely the players.”Our dreams are our inner stage and we are everything and every character.

Roads symbolize your direction in life. The direction of your life is determined by your desires and goals. There are highways, streets, roads, dead-end streets, bumpy roads, smooth roads, etc. You can make a right turn, a U-turn or a left turn (not right or unpredictable).

Teacher/Guide is your higher Self. This is your source of knowledge. The soul holds the complete plan for its maturity and its desires and goals here in this lifetime and all others before and after this lifetime.

Water is the source of all life. It represents conscious life experiences. These are our everyday, physical, waking interactions, situations, and circumstances that arise and bring opportunity for growth and enrichment. Water can also represent emotions and feelings overall.

Missing an important event because you are late.
This can indicate regret over a missed opportunity, inability to make a connection, or desire to pull oneself together. In Dream Power: How to Use Your Night Dreams to Change Your Life, Cynthia Richmond suggests asking questions of dreams in order to understand what this common symbol means to you. For example: What are you missing? Who is disappointed by the missed event? Is it only you or are there others involved?

Flying.
Interestingly, Grant and Emptage interpret flying dreams as boasting about sexual powers. The important part of the dream is how you are flying; since the flying itself represents your ambitions, are you flying successfully, or trying and failing to fly as high as possible? From there, they make the leap to feelings of sexual inadequacy, but such feelings of low self-esteem could cover inadequacy of any kind, not just sexual.

Snakes.
Snakes have been a fear in dreams for quite some time. The ancient Egyptians used to make snakes out of clay and place them at the doors of their homes to frighten away nightmares, believing that snakes were bringers of bad dreams and that the clay snake would keep real ones away. Dreammoods, an online encyclopedia of dream meanings, reports that snakes signify some hidden threat. This makes sense, as most of us fear the “snake in the grass.” Like most other symbols, though, this one has many meanings that depend on context. Snakes shed their skin, so they may signify renewal and transformation. This may be a frightening experience, as most people are uncomfortable with change, or it may be very positive.

Dream: I am being guided by a spirit

Description: You encounter a deceased person who was significant in your life and a message is conveyed. There are several variations on this theme that may leave you with a feeling of wonderment, bittersweet joy or exaltation. They may also inspire you to change your life path or give you a belief in an afterlife. They feel real.

Frequency: Many of the motifs are common; others are rare. These dreams typically occur during active grief, which may last years.

Usual meanings: "I'm okay", "I'll always love you", "Go ahead", "Congratulations", "Here's a gift", "Please forgive me" and others.

Dream: I am discovering new spaces

Description: You discover a marvelous new space. There are several variations to this theme. You may open a door in your ordinary house to discover a whole new room or section of the house that you had no idea was there. You may be walking in a familiar neighborhood and come across an area or a vista that you have never seen before. These new spaces are invariably beautiful, spectacular or special in some positive way. This dream often contains a door or window.

Frequency: Discovering new spaces is a fairly unusual them. This dream typically occurs when you feel that a new aspect of your personality is opening up, a potential you had not anticipated.

Usual meanings: You feel as though you've found something wonderful and amazing that you didn't know was there before. This may be just what you want, or something that you want to explore. You may feel as though things are opening up, that you feel free.

Dream: I experience natural beauty or miracles

Description: You are strolling through overwhelming natural or man-made beauty. The dream may involve abundant, lush flowers or vegetation and grand trees. You may bathe or swim in healing waters or be kissed by soft rain. Caressing winds may cool your face. You may be touched by warming sun rays or watch a spectacular sunset. Perhaps you will glide down ski slopes or across the ice, feeling invigorated and happy. All the glories of the natural world offer delight, often with musical background. Beautiful structures, including cathedrals, temples and marble halls, are sometimes the settings of these dreams. Classic courtyards with splashing fountains may invite you, feathered fans cool your brow. You may gaze into a glowing hearth or follow the light of a candle. You may engage in mystic dances or rituals or witness miracles.

Frequency: Dreams of beauty are rare. You may have them when you follow a spiritual practice, or you may be gifted with one during a crisis.

Usual meanings: You feel transported by the incredible scene before you. You may feel that life is amazing and that you are part of something exalted.

Dream: I am traveling happily

Description: You are traveling happily by bus, train, ship, airplane or other public transport. Your dream may involve various preparations to travel or other activities en route to the transport.

Frequency: Very infrequent. Most dreams about travel deal with complications. Pleasant travel dreams may arise when you feel content with how life is going at the time of the dream.

Usual meanings: Things are going smoothly; you're making the connections you want; you're pleased with this opportunity; you have what you need.

Dream: I am flying, swimming or dancing joyfully

Description: You are flying, feeling free. Your flight may evolve as an escape from some bad situation. In an alternate version, you may be moving freely through water or dancing with abandon.

Frequency: Although the frequency of this dream varies widely, those who have experienced it often remember it as a favorite dream.

Usual meanings: You feel great, able to soar as high as you wish, you feel as though your possibilities are limitless and that you can transcend anything. Flying dreams can also be tied to spiritual aspirations. Swimming may suggest the feeling that you can explore your depths confidently, and dancing may reflect joy in your body, an increasing sensuality.

Dream: I am well dressed

Description: You are particularly well dressed and are feeling pleased about it. You may be responding to the harmony, style, cut, texture, comfort or attractive color of the outfit that you are wearing. The attractive dream clothing may be a special costume, such as a wedding gown or a ball gown. This dream often arises out of satisfaction with your body or life role at the time of the dream. It may also emerge from a desire for a special outfit, or a wish to look good on a certain occasion. In all the variations of this theme, you feel good about the way you look in the clothing, or you admire how good someone else looks.

Frequency: A fairly common pleasant dream among all people and ages.

Usual meanings: You feel good about yourself; you feel attractive; you feel as though your body is in good shape; you feel warm, cozy and protected; you feel stylish; you look fit, sexy; you want to look like you do in your dream. May relate to a recovery from an illness.

Dream: I excel on a test or in performance

Description: You do extremely well on a test in school or perform superbly in some other situation. In other versions, you perform outstandingly in a play or a musical, sporting or other event. Famous colleagues may praise you.

Frequency: Occasional. It usually occurs when you feel confident about your abilities in waking life.

Usual meanings: You feel confident of your abilities or preparation.

Dream: I am having a pleasurable experience with a vehicle

Description: You are in or near a car that is in some way delightful, often through giving you the freedom to move in the direction you want with ease and complete control, or driven by someone you find attractive.

Frequency: An occasional dream among both drivers and nondrivers.

Usual meanings: You feel as though things are going well for you, that you feel powerful and energetic and able to control your movement through life and transform difficulties. A car in a dream may simply fulfill your wish to own that car, but its physical appearance may reflect your attitude toward your own body.

Dream: I am being menaced by a spirit

Description: You are being berated by someone who is deceased. You may feel terrified, guilty, resentful or abandoned. There are a number of variations to this jarring but rare dream theme. It may range from mild admonishment to an outright curse, or a sense of being haunted.

Frequency: Dreams of being menaced by a sprit are unusual. Some people have them occasionally, others only in dire conditions. They typically occur when you feel guilty, responsible for a death, ambivalent about the deceased, or extremely anxious about an impending or recent death.

Usual meanings: You feel alarmed, questioning whether you have done all that you could. You may question whether you are responsible for what occurred or could have done more to help. You may be questioning whether you did the right thing, feeling guilty or that you are being punished for something.

Dream: I am injured, ill or dying

Description: You or a loved one is injured, ill or dying, usually accidentally.

Frequency: Moderately common and frequent, it sometimes occurs at the onset of a fever or illness.

Usual meanings: You feel emotionally hurt, damaged or fear becoming so. You feel like you're coming apart. The dream may be warning you of an oncoming physical risk to yourself or a loved one. When another dies in a dream, it may mean that you feel that a part of yourself represented by that person feels as if it were dead. It may also express your wish that the person would go away or a fear of losing them.