Tuesday, July 21, 2026

bitter chocolate challenge

Recently we discovered Amul's dark and bitter chocolates. First we tried Dark Chocolate, its strong flavor was bitter-sweet. Both of us liked it but I wished it was bitterer. Then we got Bitter Chocolate. As usual after dinner, we broke off four pieces, two each. Watching 'House of the Dragon' I was enjoying the bitterness. I must admit my surprise at the intensity of bitterness, the bitterest I'd ever tasted. Then I heard Pushpa retching, she ran to the washbasin and spat out the pieces. She couldn't handle the challenge. That's when I felt that bitter food is not for all, only a select few enjoy it.

After chewing Amla we experience a mild sweet taste, right? Same with Bitter 90%.

Years ago, when we lived in Hyderabad, we had had Thai Pad instant noodles for dinner once. That was the first time we had made it and tasted it. Our mouths were on fire, the chilly flavor was really intense.  Sweat broke and eyes teared. After half a bowl, Pushpa gave up. I could handle it, finished all we had cooked. Generally I prefer moderate chilly flavor while Pushpa likes it stronger. However, when it comes to handling extreme taste, I'm the champion between the two of us.

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Tuesday, July 7, 2026

Pigeon

Pigeon captured on 21st Aug 2023 when was Sun was close to the western horizon.

Besides cuckoo, pigeon too seems like a lazy bird. I felt to so after seeing a pigeon's nest, a low heap of twigs positioned to prevent its eggs from rolling away. No privacy, no comfort, no security from predators, nothing. Yet, the bird thrives. Once they move into a certain space they just drive out other birds. They take over the entire space and litter it with their droppings. They appear to be cute with their cooing and grunts however they can be a pain.

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