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I took a shine to boots when I studied in London, and the weather did help me embrace the new shoe variant whole-heartedly. I picked boots in a variety of summer-spring-winter friendly styles and even mixed colours that added magic to my outfits. I soon realised that styling boots could sometimes be very tricky, either it can amp the style three-fold or drop the look into the ditch to win a Razzie Award in fashion. Of course, I experimented and smoothly sailed through my boot looks while hitting the jackpot quite a few times. And since I don’t want any of you gorgeous girlies to go wrong, especially with styling boots in India, here is a quick boot guide to inspire you to wear boots throughout the year without looking overdressed or trying too hard. 

So let's get onto a cheat sheet about the types of boots:
Ankle Boots: 
I started my boots journey with a pair of ankle boots, which are a must style. They are classic and timeless and can be styled for a date night or when hanging out with friends or even at work. My first ankle boots were Chelsea boots that were slim and simple neutral boots.
Mid-Calf Boots: 
Just as the name suggests, these boots end mid-calf and are actually the least favourite style for me as they make me look frumpy. However, if you do want to get a pair, the best bet would be cowboy boots in a fun colour with some stylish accent. 
Knee Boots: 
My favourite boots are a pair of knee-high boots that are stylish and sexy at the same time. They are easy to style, accentuate any outfit and are easy to go from day-to-night. I have a pair, each in low and sky-high classic heels and also a fun pair in block heels. 

Next up are the best outfit permutations for your boots: 
With Jeans: 
The easiest way to style boots is skinny jeans tucked into them. Go casual with an oversized tee, or go formal with a blazer, or party-ready with a blouse. 
With Dresses: 
The trick to styling boots with a dress is to contrast the lengths. Pair ankle-length boots with a maxi or midi dress, mid-calf boots with a midi dress and knee boots with a mini dress. 
With Shorts or Skirts: 
Again the trick that works for a dress works for shorts and skirts. However, if you want to experiment, try pairing knee-high boots with a midi skirt or a wrap skirt. 

And finally, simple yet crucial tips for picking your boots:
⟡ Just like any shoes, the fit is the most important, choose comfort over style
⟡ For the first pair, buy offline so you can walk in 2-3 sizes, before deciding
⟡ Pick leather or fabric depending upon the climate and prevailing weather
⟡ Don’t forget the socks to match your boots, preferably in the same colour

Now you know most of all that you should about boots, so quick go and get yours today. Also, let me know in the comments, which are your favourite styles and why. 

Until next time,
~ Heena
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When parenthood comes knocking at your door, you think you are prepared, but trust me no one is. When I was expecting Heer, I listened to a lot of advice; imagined, and organized, what I thought I would need. But as soon as she arrived, not only did a period of trial and error start, but also a huge learning curve ensured. One thing I learned very quickly was that a baby goes through numerous diapers daily, and a new mom needs more than just the diapers for all the diapering that happens. 

While diapers remain at the center of this activity :), the other essentials for healthy and safe diapering sessions include natural water wipes, diaper rash cream, and most importantly, a changing mat. Most first-time moms may not realize how a dedicated hygiene kit for diapering makes their lives so much easier. But over a few weeks when they do realize it, they find that it's quite difficult to choose the right products for their quintessential baby hygiene kit. It happened to me too. When I was diapering Heer, I experimented with a lot of products, and found the whole process of searching, using, and experimenting to be quite overwhelming. 

However, today, being a seasoned mom, I was quite well-prepared when Rajveer arrived and knew exactly what to pick. The catch for me was to choose between reusable and disposable products. Because I knew that my little man would need a minimum of 10 diaper changes a day, and I needed to give myself time to recover from a second C-section delivery, I decided to use disposable diapers and disposable changing mats that would make my diaper duty a little less smelly, shitty, and tedious.


And with a zillion brands on the market, I continued to use my personal #MomUsedAndApproved #SuperMatsForSuperMoms disposable Teddyy Changing Mats because of its 3 product features and I want to share them with you. Here they are: 

Waterproof Protection
Nothing is more uncomfortable for a baby than a wet surface. So the Teddyy Changing Mats make sure that they remain dry and give the utmost comfort to my baby with their super absorbent top layer, which is soft and spongy and has a criss-cross design which stops leakages. It also has a waterproof back sheet which prevents the mats from getting wet. And it also keeps allergies and infection at bay with its anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic core. Using this mat assured me that the baby will always remain dry and clean, allergy-free and happy. 

Multiuse Function 
The general perception is that changing mats are used for diapering only. But, Teddyy Changing Mats can be used as an additional protective cushioning on the seat while laying the baby or while travelling, as a wrap while holding the baby and even while massaging the baby. 

Safety and Certification
I believe that safety and quality are of the utmost importance when picking a baby care product and this holds true for diapering products too. Since I use Teddyy Changing Mats practically 24/7, I did check if the product met the mandatory disposable hygiene products certification. I’m glad that the brand meets both the ISO 9001:2015 and CE Certifications that not only make the product healthy and environmentally safe but also make me secure about my choice.


Since the time I started using Teddyy Changing Mats, I’ve also started giving RV diaper-free hours, and it has worked wonders for him. Of course, I dispose the mats I use during the diaper-free hours immediately, while I use the mats in his bed and stroller for a few days.

As a second-time mom, I have used products from Teddyy with renewed gusto and would recommend all new moms to give it a shot too.

Until next time, 
~ Heena
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We’ve noticed that most people tend to stick to one place when they plan their holidays, almost cramping to do a lot of things in a single place, one that they are to visit, not wanting to venture out. This is especially true if there are kids and parents in the travelling troupe. Yes, we are guilty of this since most of our holidays are with our parents and our kids. But, soon we realised that we were missing out on a lot of surrounding places that are travel-worthy as we never made multiple-location itineraries. However, it all is going to change for our upcoming holiday to Shimla.


For the uninitiated, Shimla - the Queen of Hills, is fondly known for its gorgeous landscape, colonial architecture and historical sites. The weather throughout the year is enjoyable enough to draw in numerous tourists, and more so during the winters when the city is covered in gorgeous layers of snow. A stay in the city isn’t complete without a stroll down the Mall road, a trek to the Ridge, and ride on the Toy Train. 

However, in Shimla don't get stuck in the rut within the city, and venture out to visit some of the best weekend getaways from Shimla to add more dimension to your trip. We have been researching over the last few days and come up with numerous destination around Shimla within a distance of 10 to 25 kilometres that can be easily accessed by a local taxi. We have zeroed in on these must-visit places and added them to our itinerary.
Mashobra
At 13 kilometres from Shimla, Mashobra is a huge expanse of lush pine, oak and apple orchards covering beautiful hills which is accentuated with a picturesque stream gushing through the valley. It is a relatively untouched place, with very few tourists but flocked with travellers who love fresh natural surroundings in the lap of serenity. When in Mashobra do not leave without a visit to the Mahasu Peak and the Reserve Forest Sanctuary.
Kufri
At a mere 18 kilometres from Shimla, is Kufri - the most scintillating ‘lake’ place that is like a soothing breeze in the summers and an iced blanket in the winters. Kufri boasts of majestic panoramic views apart from the world-famous trekking and hiking trails. Though one would see many adventure-seekers interested in skiing especially in the winters, Kufri is a much sought-after family place for its Himalayan Nature Park and Fun World.
Fagu
The best surprise, just 21 kilometres from Shimla is Fagu, a quaint little town laden with refreshing green fields that offer a perfect sanctuary for peace and quiet. The picturesque countryside is dotted with a cluster of villages, fruit gardens and terraced fields, making it the perfect escape for a romantic day. Fagu, literally translated as ‘fog’ offers amazing experiences within the Reserve Forest Sanctuary, the Water Catchment Sanctuary and the Old Gurkha Fort.

Do you know of any other places that would interest us around Shimla, without having too much distance to be covered to reach it? If so do recommend in the comments below and should we happen to add that destination to our trip, be sure we shall bring back a local souvenir for you. 

Until next time,
~ Heena
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As a mother, my most natural instinct is to nurture and protect my little Rajveer against anything and everything. But sometimes to protect him I have to endure some pain, the pain of seeing him being vaccinated. At each of his vaccination appointments for the last eight months, my heart has been torn apart at his little cries, but I’m strong enough to endure it for his healthy growth and development.



Rajveer is due for his next vaccination; the MMR vaccine in two weeks, as per the immunisation schedule set by Government of India. The MMR vaccine is a crucial vaccine in the immunisation calendar, which protects children against three diseases namely measles, mumps, and rubella. The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) recommends the MMR vaccine in two doses, starting with the first dose at 9 months of age, and the second dose at 4 years of age. As I booked the next appointment for Rajveer, his paediatrician recommended the Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine, the first vaccine approved for primary and booster vaccination for meningococcal or bacterial meningitis.

As I wasn’t aware of meningitis, I asked quite a few questions about the condition and the vaccination. The first thing that shocked me about meningitis is that it is a rare but potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. 

The conversation left me wondering, and so I spoke to a few healthcare professionals and decided to share some relevant information, and arm parents to make informed decisions about the vaccination. 

About the Disease
Meningitis is either a bacterial or viral infection, which may seem pretty straightforward, however, in spite of significant medical advancement, the infection is difficult to detect. Though viral meningitis is usually mild and often clears by itself without the need for medical intervention, it is bacterial meningitis which is riskier and worsens within hours causing long term disabilities and sometimes death.

Risk Profile
The condition does not affect any particular person, it can affect anyone of any age, at any time and at any place. However, children below the age of 2 years are most at risk.

Visible Symptoms
The symptoms are similar to that of flu; like high temperature, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. But, if these symptoms are accompanied by severe headaches, discomfort in bright lights, joint pain, and a stiff neck; a diagnosis is imperative.

Scientific Diagnosis
The condition is most commonly diagnosed by a blood test, an X-ray or a CT scan to gauge the severity, however, in some cases, a spinal tap or lumbar puncture is done to check the cerebrospinal fluid for the Neisseria bacteria.

Treatment Path
If detected, the condition is treated immediately with multiple intravenous antibiotics and sometimes corticosteroids to help reduce the risk of complications, like brain swelling and seizures until the exact cause of meningitis is diagnosed. Once the cause is determined, a pre-set line of treatment is followed.

Preventive Measures
Since the root cause of meningitis is a viral or bacterial infection, practising good hygiene and care is the first step to prevention. Another crucial step is immunisation, which ensures inoculation against various types of acute bacterial meningitis. In India, the meningococcal conjugate vaccine ‘Menactra by Sanofi Pasteur’ is advised to be administered first at 9 months and next at 2 years. Menactra protects against three types of acute bacterial meningitis, ensuring protection and prevention at the same time. 

Most parents may say, oh, it's just another vaccine, but here are some fast facts about Meningitis that will help make your decision:

⟡ Children and adults are both likely to develop bacterial meningitis
⟡ 1 in 5 cases of bacterial meningitis end with serious complications
⟡ Bacterial meningitis causes around 170,000 deaths globally every year
⟡ In spite of prompt diagnosis and treatment, 10% of patients die within 24-48 hours
⟡ Even after treatment, survivors live with permanent damage and need ongoing treatment 
⟡ Most people have no knowledge about the condition, the causes, the symptoms, and the prevention

Knowing about meningitis helped me be a proactive parent who won’t take the tiniest risk.  You too can be that parent, the one who makes an informed choice between life, death and life-long disability. 

Stay Healthy, Stay Happy,
~ Heena

Disclaimer: 
The views expressed in the blog content are independent and unbiased views of solely the blogger. This is a part of the public awareness initiative on meningitis supported by Sanofi Pasteur India. Sanofi Pasteur bears no responsibility for the content of the blog. One should consult their healthcare provider for any health-related information.
This article is meant to help create awareness and spread knowledge. Any decision regarding your health and child's health should be done after consultation with your doctor. Read my full disclosure here. While all efforts are made to keep articles updated, the speed of research in these fields mean the information often may change when more research knowledge is available. iCynosure Lifestyles or the authors should be in no way held responsible in that case.
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Every woman shares a very unique relationship with her handbag and that includes me as well. Dearest husband remains astonished every time I walk into a store and head straight for the bag section, and even sometimes after a considerable time I return with absolutely nothing. I can say for sure that men do not understand the bond between a girl and her handbag. 

However now with two kids, I no longer have the luxury of strolling through retail stores for my handbags and so my next best friend is an online store called Baginning that defines itself as: 

One Shop, A Group of Dreamers.
On the Way to Lastest Trending,
On the Way to Best Lady bags Shopping Experience,
And on the way to Be Ourselves.
It's for fashion lovers, It's Baginning! 

Tha'ts so me, my handbags are an extension of my personality, my world on the move and so I’m very choosy about picking my handbags because I look for quality, refinement and understated elegance. Here are a few pieces I've just ordered to celebrate my birthday month!
Tote Bag 
I've first picked this super spacious rose genuine leather tote bag for the amount of room it will have to stuff things that I need when travelling with the kids. Also if one of the very few tote bags that I've seen with a zipper, making it perfect.
Laptop Bag
My next pick is a perfect compliment to all my work needs, a green chic laptop bag with a structured body that is as wide at the base, as the top. A perfect companion, absolutely complimentary to my formal wear yet a colour that stands out on its own.
Backpack
My last pick is one of the amazing fashion backpacks that is perfect for a night out with my girls. Sparkly and shiny this is a must have to rock every party look, be it a night club, a beach or a house party. And it can easily be a bag Heer and I can share. 

And now for some important features of Baginning: 
⟡ Online Payments, including Paypal, credit card
⟡ Free Worldwide Shipping with express 2-4 days shipping time
⟡ Hassle Free Returns if you are not satisfied with our product.
⟡ Dedicated Support for any inquiry, order issue, quality complain and more

Have you heard about this online shop? Seen the amazing pieces? Let me know in a comment below which is the one handbag you must-have from them.

Until next time,
~ Heena
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About Me

About Me

Hey, my name is Heena and I'm a Mumbai based blogger, influencer and content creator.

iCynosure.in is my cozy corner on the internet, where I've chronicled things that fascinate and inspire me.

Enjoy browsing and feel free to get in touch at icynosureblog@gmail.com

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