Abi:original - If you aren't original, what are you?

There is usually a crowd in here. But it is exceptionally busy on Christmas eve. Women of all ages rush in to look their best barely a few hours before Christmas. You've probably witnessed the trend, the world over. She sits behind me. I cannot see her face. I can only hear the nagging voice arguing with the hair stylist. "No, I want it shorter. I have a four month old baby. You know I wanted to shave my head off. I, I, I." No kidding. This is actually what I hear.  It is a real blessing that the women from the Phillipines who run the beauty parlour I am in, have the patience that they do. Miles away from their own families, they have to work every day plus a half day on Christmas day as well. To add to their woes there's an unending sea of women who believe that it is their right to argue and bicker about every Dirham spent. I sit and wait patiently. For my hair to transform itself. I feel lucky that I could cross the road and attempt to look decent for Chris...

Train travel has always inspired me. Sure the Mumbai suburban train service has its flaws. It packed like hell on most days. But it also provides solace and a chance for one to find your own little corner to catch a breath and think. Some of my best ideas have come on a 50-minute train ride to college or work. And that’s been no different 20 years later on the Dubai Metro. Here is one piece that came up recently. On motivating, passionate women at any age. Danica's free hand drawing, December 2015.  I don’t have to look far when it comes to women who are passionate at any age. My daughter provides sufficient inspiration. At the age of five she wants to be a mother above all else. I tell her I would simply love to be her age again but there's no going back. No adult logic that works with a five year old and for now she says she can’t wait to be a mother as I’m gathering she believes it’s a fun job. Noted poet, author and my English Literature professor is another ...

Most often I avoid shopping malls on the weekend. The crowds, the traffic and the mayhem is something I'd rather do without. I made an exception for the reopening of OshKosh B’gosh in Dubai Mall as this time it was all about the kids.   The American children’s wear brand, re-opened its retail store to customers. The newly refurbished store was abuzz with sales people in Santa hats and a collection of comfortable winter wear for toddlers and children. Known for making the World’s Best Overalls and denim for children, the brand’s clothing is designed to make kids feel comfortable throughout their fun adventures.  Always wondered what the name means? OshKosh B’gosh was founded in 1895 in Oshkosh, Wisconsin as a manufacturer of hickory-striped denim bib overalls for railroad workers and farmers. Customers were invited to take pictures with their children and pose for a possible feature in the brand’s next catalogue. For us it was a chance to buy some new w...