A year older. And, hopefully, wiser.

Greetings from Shalu.

First, and foremost - thank you, from the very bottom of my heart, to everyone, for the birthday wishes. The one which came, some days after the mid of November 2014. Thank you for the blessings, the love, and the care.

Birthdays are very personal, to me. No. Not because of the getting old issue. 

But, because, I truly believe, it is a day you celebrate with loved ones. The family and friends that you genuinely hold close to heart. And, I did, exactly that. 

God and Appa. Thank you for continuing to watch over me. And for blessing me, from up above. 

Amma, my Goddess. The one who makes me realise that heaven will always be a place on earth, as long as I have her, with me. Thank you for the midnight, surprise party. 

Akka. My best friend. My second mom. We share a 13 year gap. But, we are allies. Compatriots. Shopping buddies. Gossip gang. Partners in craziness. 

And, she is my favourite Whatsapp contact. Yes, such a favourite, that we share secret messages, even when in the same room. Thank you for the side dishes for party. Thank you for ensuring a good attendance. 

My brother, Segar. Who remembered. For once. Hahaha.....

Guys rarely keep track of dates and all. So, when he actually called to wish, I found it a little weird and funny. Brothers. They can drive you crazy. He does, too. But, he cares just as much. And, I continue to count on him, anytime of the day. 

Mogan. For one of the earliest wishes. For making me smile from ear to ear. For continuing to be a part of my life. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 

Inpan and Devaki. My besties in London. For the phone call across the miles. For the messages. For just being there, in my life. You've put our friendship on a pedestal. You're family, guys. And, I love you both as well as the two little ones, so very, very much.

Sivaram. My blog reader. Years have transformed us into Facebook and email friends. Thank you, too, for that surprise phone call, from India. I was truly taken by surprise because you remembered. And not to mention, that sweeter than sweet poem via mail. May God bless you in your new journey of life. And, yes, thanks. Very much appreciated. 

To my besties, who compromise of 5 crazy girls, from my uni days - Thanks. You guys rock. 

To everyone else who is aware of my EXACT birth date, and dropped by to wish, thank you, too.

Yes, I am blessed. Thanks.

Take a piece of the cake. Virtually. That's all that is possible for now.

Signing off,

~Shalu~