5 Mother's Day Gift Basket Ideas

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and you're probably wondering what to do about a gift! It's tempting to just shop for a dress or a new bag, but why not put some effort into a different sort of gift this year? The perfect way to do this is with a gift basket or a gift hamper filled with Mom's favorite things - and watch her smile spread as she unwraps this treasure!

5 Mother's Day Gift Basket Ideas

1. Tickled Pink

A great idea for a gift basket is one based on color. Choose a basket based on your Mom's favorite color and fill in things related to it - sweets, nail color, lip color, beauty accessories etc. Go as crazy as you like!

2. Gift in a Jar

If you can get your hand on a huge big jar like this one, you're in luck! Line the bottom with faux grass and then stuff it with all kinds of goodies that your Mom will like. Choose smaller objects so you can put in more things.

3. Stuffed Slippers

How adorable are these stuffed slippers? Make it a bedtime special with an eye mask, lip balm, night cream and lavender pillow mist. A perfect good night hamper!

4. Self Care Gift Basket

A self care gift basket is something any busy Mom will love! You can make it a spa-theme or a beach-theme, and pack in aromatic candles, loofahs, bath products, lotions and similar items.

5. Baking Gift Basket

Got a Mom who loves to bake? Encourage her hobby with some cute baking accessories in fun colors! Try to find unique styles of baking equipment rather than the usual ones you find in stores. A little digging will be worth it when you end up with a lovely looking basket!

So these are just a few ideas, but we're sure these must inspire many more! Take out some time and hunt for the right stuff and make sure you wrap everything in a pretty container!

5 Ways to Include Greenery in Small Spaces

"Green is the prime color of the world, and that from which its loveliness arises." - Pedro Calderon de la Barca

It's Earth Day today and the focus this year is on planting trees. It has become more than evident that our rampant cutting down of trees and scaling down of forests have resulted in drastic climate change, with disasters like floods and droughts occurring across the world. But besides that, there's something extremely soothing about seeing all that greenery around us, and there is no other color that is more soothing to the soul.

If you live in a house with a yard or a garden, you're lucky to have the space to plant trees and have a nice, lush lawn. However, there's no need to despair if you live in a small space - there are still ways you can include greenery in your home!

5 Ways to Include Greenery in Small Spaces

1. Terrariums and Succulents

 

This is probably the easiest and cheapest way to introduce some greenery in your interiors, even in your workplace. Small cute terrariums are easy to make and maintain, and you can have several different kinds in one place that'll look extremely pretty. Greenery on your desk will also improve your productivity.

2. Artificial Plants

Indoor plants are of course, your best bet to include greenery as well as purify the air around you, but if you can't manage them, artificial plants are your next best option. Get large sized ones for your entry way, living room or home office to give off a nice welcoming feeling.

3. Kitchen Herbs

Large, decorative indoor plants can be hard to maintain, but kitchen herbs are a lot easier. The added plus is that you get fresh, organic herbs to use in your cooking. You save on cost and you also get to avoid all the pesticides on the ones you get in the market.

4. Balcony Garden

However small your space is, it's quite likely that you have at least one balcony with access to sunshine. If so, hang some cute, colorful planters on the ledge, with some easy to maintain flowers. Your local nursery will be able to give you information about which plants suit your current space.

5. Flooring

There's nothing like walking barefoot on fresh grass, but if that's a distant dream, get in some lush green carpeting to recreate the feel. Try keeping it to a small area to avoid overwhelm, like a home office or entry way.

6. Wall Art

And then there's wall art, where you can find a bazillion options to brighten up your space. You can go for posters, paintings, art prints or even wall stickers - whatever suits your theme. If you have a creative side, you can also DIY something and frame it up proudly!

So you see, it's not that hard to bring some greenery indoors, but of course, none of these will come close to planting a real tree! So try to adopt a portion of land in your local park or apartment complex and plant some seeds. Nourish it and watch it grow into a beautiful patch of green - a pleasure for all the senses!

The Top 5 Main Characters of The Jungle Book

It's unlikely to find an adult Indian today who hasn't read the Jungle Book or at least watched it on TV. This book was written by Rudyard Kipling in 1894, but the fact that a movie based on it is releasing today in 2016 is proof of the book's timeless essence. Set in India and featuring animals of the Indian forest, this story is particularly close to our hearts, which is why we're more than excited about Disney's latest venture. So before you plan to watch the movie, we thought we'd give you a little refresher on all the main characters, as well as a little peek into how they look today!

1. Mowgli

Mowgli is the main character in the Jungle Book, a feral child lost and found in the forest. Mowgli is separated from his parents during a tiger attack in the village and he is found and raised by a pack of wolves as their own. He even ends up crawling on all fours with his wolf-brothers! It takes a while for Mowgli to realize that he isn't really a wolf, but his difference does come in handy, especially when it comes to pulling out splinters from his brothers' paws!

Mowgli is played by Neel Sethi, a newcomer in the movie.

2. Bagheera

Bagheera is a black panther who like Mowgli, has grown up among members of another species. He was a cub who lived with the Udaipur royals, and hence has much more insight into the ways of humans than Mowgli himself! He is a smooth talker and quite cunning, but sincere and loyal. It is Bagheera, along with Baloo, who vouches for Mowgli when he's discovered by the wolves and the two become fast friends from then, sharing several adventures together.

In the movie, Bagheera is voiced by none other than the impressive Ben Kingsley.

3. Baloo

Besides Bagheera, Baloo is another one of Mowgli's close friends, although his nature is quite different from that of Bagheera's! Baloo is a big brown bear, who is entrusted with the job of teaching Mowgli the Law of the Jungle. Unfortunately, Baloo is rather a fan of the good life, and he loves sleeping and eating fruit and honey! Nevertheless, he's always by Mowgli's side when he's needed and is a great friend.

Baloo's voice is provided by the inimitable Bill Murray, which indicates a good fun-fest!

4. Kaa

Kaa is a rather interesting character in the Jungle Book. He is a really, really long snake, more than a hundred years old and has special hypnotic skills. He has a slithery, slimy quality about him, making you always suspect his intentions even though he speaks in the softest tones possible. Kaa has a more pronounced positive role in the original story, but the Disney version has cast him in shades of grey.

This interesting character is voiced by the beautiful and talented Scarlett Johansson.

5. Shere Khan

Shere Khan is the main villain of the story, and is after Mowgli from the start. Mowgli's protection by the wolves only makes Shere Khan more determined to get him, and much of the story is about Bhageera and Baloo trying to save Mowgli from the evil tiger's clutches. Shere Khan is lame from birth, but extremely arrogant and cunning. The only thing that he fears is fire, a fact that Mowgli realizes later and puts to good use!

A villain like Shere Khan needs a grand voice, ably provided by Idris Elba.

We're pretty sure you're itching to watch the movie now! There's something nostalgic and exciting about watching an old childhood favorite on the big screen, that too in 3D! Do come back and let us know how you liked the movie!

(All images from IMDB)

7 Traditional Cooling Drinks for Summer

The weather is quite hot in many parts of the country and is all set to get hotter! It's time to get the air conditioners serviced and the sweaters packed away. But most of all, it's the time to eat light and sip on some refreshing coolers throughout the day. And if you want to stay healthy, you'll stay away from those aerated drinks and packaged juices - so try out our list of traditional cooling drinks instead!

7 Traditional Cooling Drinks for Summer

1. Jal Jeera

The very traditional jal jeera isn't just a cooler, it's also a great appetizer! This recipe at Flavors of Mumbai uses an assortment of spices including black pepper, cumin and fennel to create a lovely drink that gives a true kick to the tastebuds!

2. Piyush

Piyush is a yogurt based drink, similar to lassi, but creamier!! This recipe from Veg Recipes of India is a spiced piyush that makes use of cardamom, nutmeg and saffron for a delightfully sweet n spicy drink!

3. Shikanji

Lemonade is one of the most refreshing drinks you can have during summer, and this recipe from Saffron Trail takes it a notch higher by including mint, tulsi and ginger - it doesn't get any more Indian than this!

4. Mango Lassi

Speaking of summer drinks, we can't exclude the lassi, can we? The Wanderlust Kitchen takes the king of fruits and the regular lassi to come up with the most delectable looking Mango Lassi. Add some saffron for extra deliciousness!

5. Pudina Chaas

Sometimes you don't feel like anything sweet and you want something to really tickle your taste buds. That's where this Pudina Chaas recipe from Veg Recipes of India comes in - tangy buttermilk piped up with the minty flavor of pudina.

6. Kesar Badam Milk

We all love recipes that can multitask, and this Kesar badam milk from Rachna's Kitchen works perfectly well hot or chilled! With the lovely aroma of saffron and the nuttiness of almonds, this is one drink that'll relax you instantly on a hot day!

7. Thandai

Don't you love a drink that has 'cooling' in it's very name? And that's Thandai for you! Cook with Manali features a recipe that's loaded with spices (pepper, cardamom), dry fruit (almonds, pistachios) and seeds (watermelon, poppy) - it's an all in one drink!

With hearty and refreshing drinks like these, who wants packaged sodas? Stay healthy and refreshed all summer - traditionally!

7 Stunning Strawberry Recipes

"One must ask children and birds how cherries and strawberries taste." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

There's something very special about strawberries. They look like little hearts, are bright and cheery, and have that perfect combination of sweetness and tartness when you bite into one! They are pretty versatile too, and go well in a variety of dishes. Since strawberries are in season nowadays, we've decided to put together a collection of strawberry recipes that'll have you drooling in no time!

7 Stunning Strawberry Recipes

 

1. Simple Strawberry Smoothie

Let's start with a simple smoothie from The Summery Umbrella. This is a very easy recipe with ingredients that you already have at home. The best part is that it uses honey as a sweetener, a healthier option than white sugar!

2. Strawberry and Cream Oatmeal

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so why not make it taste like dessert? This yummy strawberry and cream oatmeal recipe from Spoonful of Flavor checks all the right boxes! Just add some nuts for healthy fats, and you're all set!

3. Strawberry Roll-Ups

Strawberries are great to eat as they are for a snack, but when you have picky eaters at home, you'll need to be a little more innovative! These strawberry roll-ups from Shutterbean are the perfect solution and they're easier than they look!

4. Strawberry Salsa

If you're trying to eat healthier, by no means does it mean that you have to restrict yourself to bland food! This 5-ingredient strawberry salsa from Gimme Some Oven is full of healthy ingredients and will tickle your tastebuds!

5. Grilled Chicken and Strawberry Wrap

You probably don't think of chicken and strawberry doing well together, but this wrap from The Pioneer Woman will prove you wrong! Get the perfect mix of flavors in this healthy lunchbox recipe for yourself or your kids.

6. Strawberry Panacotta

For a light, no-bake cooling dessert, this strawberry panacotta from The Gold Lining Girl is the perfect pick. You can substitute the gelatin with china grass if you like, with no change in the final result.

7. Strawberry Brownie Cheesecake

Sometimes, you just want to make a nice, big impressive dessert that'll just knock everyone's socks off! For such days, this delicious strawberry brownie cheesecake from Life, Love and Sugar is sure to have everyone coming back for seconds and thirds!

Which of these recipes did you like the most? Which one will you be trying before strawberry season runs out?

7 Different and Healthy Versions of Popular Indian Breakfast Recipes

February has many special days and observances, and one among them is Hot Breakfast Month. Indian breakfasts have traditionally been hot breakfasts, and most of us remember our childhoods having piping hot idlis, crispy dosas or fluffy puris every morning! Even with the advent of breakfast cereals and cold milk, traditional Indian breakfasts are still popular, and people are innovating with healthier versions of the same. So today, we bring you innovative versions of 7 of the most popular Indian breakfast recipes that'll have you feeling hungry in no time!

7 Unique Versions of Popular Indian Breakfast Recipes

1. Ragi Idli

Idlis are one of the healthiest Indian breakfast foods out there, and there are so many ways to customize it!  One variety of idli is Ragi Idli from Sailu's Food. Substituting plain rice with ragi (finger millet) flour and cream of rice, this recipe is a breeze to make!

2. Moong Sprouts Poha

Poha is a well-loved Maharashtrian breakfast, and is a perfect option for when you're really strapped for time! This recipe from Indian Khana makes use of moong sprouts and a variety of healing spices to make a dish that's healthy and satisfying!

3. Stuffed Egg Paratha

Making kids eat breakfast can be challenging, especially when everyone's in a hurry. However, this stuffed egg paratha from Anto's Kitchen is the perfect combination of health and taste! It's full of protein and will keep kids full till lunch.

4. Spinach, Coriander and Curry Leaves Dosa

We're often advised to eat our greens, but we tend to forget! This spinach, coriander and curry leaves dosa from Kurry Leaves is the perfect way to get greens into your diet, while giving your plain ol' dosa a lovely color!

5. Instant Oats Rava Dhokla

Soft spongy dhokla is a yummy recipe in itself, but this oats rava version from The Saffron Trail is a must-try! With a cooking time of about 15 minutes, this is one breakfast you'll be making on busy mornings!

6. Methi Moong Masala Puri

Puris are very popular, but not often experimented with. However, these methi moong masala puris from Cubes and Juliennes will wonder why no one made them before! Packed with flavor, these are great for a Sunday brunch!

7. Breakfast Dudh Muri

The Bengali version of Rice Krispies, Dudh Muri is pretty popular with kids! Try out this breakfast version by Mallika Basu at the Standard, spiced up and made healthier with the addition of fruit. You can also add some nuts to this quick and easy breakfast option!

Most of these recipes are not just healthy, but don't require much effort to make! Pair it with a cup of authentic green tea for the perfect healthy breakfast. Which of these are you going to try next?

6 Tea Recipes for Common Ailments

So many of us associate a hot steaming cup of tea with comfort and relaxation, but did you know that your beloved cuppa can also cure common ailments? Yes, you don't need to pop a pill for all those niggling health worries - just put a pot of tea on the boil! Here are 6 tea recipes for common ailments that are quick and easy - and 100% natural!

6 Tea Recipes for Common Ailments

1. Bloating & Indigestion

Tummy troubles are quite common, and are easily soothed with some lovely ginger tea. Boil 2 cups water and add 1/2 tsp green tea, 1 tsp grated ginger, and 1/2 tsp squeezed lime. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes depending upon the strength you want, and slowly sip through the day.

2. Sore Throat

Lemon tea is a simple but effective remedy for many cold and flu-related symptoms like sore throat. Boil a cup of water with a 1/4 tsp of black tea. Squeeze in a quarter wedge of lime and strain. Add honey or sugar to sweeten and drink while still hot.

3. Insomnia

Chamomile has many benefits, including the ability to promote relaxation and sleep. Just boil a cup of water, add a teaspoon of chamomile and let it steep for five minutes. You can also add a teaspoon of lavender if you like. Drink it 30-45 minutes before your bedtime for good sleep.

4. Headache

For that annoying headache, forget medicine and try this tea. Place a teaspoon of your regular black tea and a teaspoon of rosemary in a cup. Pour boiling water over it and let steep for five minutes. Sweeten as desired and drink.

5. Dry Cough

Turmeric is known for its medicinal benefits, but few people think of it in tea! For persistent dry cough, boil a cup of water and add 1/2 tsp of black tea, 1 tsp turmeric and 1 tsp black pepper. Let it boil for a couple of minutes. Strain, add a sweetener of your choice and drink it right away.

6. Puffy Eyes

Puffy eyes can occur because of many reasons, but the end result is a tired looking, aged face! Perk up your eyes with tea bags. Chill used tea bags (black or green) and place the cold bags on your eyes for 15 minutes. If the puffiness does not subside, repeat a few times through the day.

For these remedies to be truly effective, it is important to get the best quality teas, preferably authentic versions from their place of origin. So the next time you have a bugging health problem, you know what to do!