However, we are happy. We have our usual ups and downs and with a blended family it is that much more difficult to keep things in order all the time. One thing I am certain about is that I trust my hubby implicitly, this is something I never had before.  When go through a whole lot of trials in life you learn to appreciate all the little things. The things that truly matter. I must admit I am not a materialistic person, happiness means more to me than any amount of diamonds in the world. Our anniversary was special just knowing that I have a man that’s committed to me and our family and I have his unwavering support.  How time flies by, we’ve been married for 13 years. Seems like it was just yesterday that we tied the knot. I have to share our little story. Before I met him I never believed that much in fate. But I am now convinced. So often we wonder if fate really plays a role in bringing people together, I can tell you for sure it is definitely that, fate! 

When I first started my blog I wanted to share my life’s journey (I believe there are so many women that need a little inspiration) together with my favorite recipes but it all became too much. I am no Saint but if I can give someone somewhere a little hope that’s enough for me. I decided to stick to food, I know some of you will agree as not everyone wants to listen to my stories…haha! I am also introducing my hubby to you today. His first picture on my blog, don’t think he’s going to be too chuffed. What he doesn’t know can’t hurt, can it…haha! As a young lady I was somewhat of a rebel, I defied everything my dad said. I felt he was far too overprotective so I always did the opposite of what he wanted me to do. The joys of having kids…Lol! I know all about it now that I am a mom. So I decided to get married at the age of 19. I thought it was love but clearly I was wrong. It was not a great marriage and I was also physically abused. Whilst I was still married to my abusive partner I worked in Corporate. One day I decided I needed a change so I applied for a new job and so did my current husband. He studied law and didn’t want to practice so he decided to also apply for a job at the same company. The irony was that we started work together on the same day and were introduced to all our collegues together. Little did I know that this same man was going to be my husband one day. I have a vivid memory of seeing him the first time and thinking “he really has no dress sense” and he looked somewhat nerdy. As I got to know him over the years I realised it wasn’t at all about his dress sense. It was all about the personality, the kindness, the respect, being humble and caring. When I started my new job I wasn’t given a warm welcome by my female colleagues, apparently I looked like a snob. God knows how they came to that conclusion. If you’re Indian you would know we are the most judgemental people on the planet. Don’t shoot me for this, but we know it’s the truth…Lol! So I was left with no choice but to befriend my 3 male colleagues and we became best of friends. My hubby was part of that clique too. He became my best friend and confidante as we shared the same office and he was easy to talk to.  After years of abuse I one day found the courage to walk away. Trust me I tried many times during the 10 years but walking away is not as easy as people think it is. Only a person subjected to an abusive relationship would know just how challenging it is to walk away. I saw an astrologer after my divorce (I’m just curious like that) and he told me I was going to marry a work colleague, only I didn’t know that it was going to become a reality or who it was going to be.  I honestly thought it was a lie and I assumed if it was the truth there was definitely some new hunk that was going to be recruited…Lol! A year after my divorce my best friend asked me out on a date. Wasn’t something I expected and I had no interest in him whatsoever. However, I trusted him and I knew the kind of character he was. So I agreed. As they say the rest is history. Five years later we got married, after loads of trials and tribulations. Loads of judgement from my Indian work colleagues. Because as Indians we judge. A divorcee is not allowed to marry a single, eligible bachelor because she’s just not good enough. I was called lots of names and probably cursed a lot. But I survived it all. All I can say is that no matter how much people judge do what’s best for you. We are proof that our relationship has survived against all odds. One post is not enough, I could write a book. So if you ever wonder if fate plays a role in our lives, that’s a definite YES. I know so many women write to me telling me that I give them hope when they read my little posts on Facebook and Instagram. They are hopeful that their lives too will improve after their struggles. I do believe it will, I am proof of that! If you loved this, please share!

How Fate Brought Us Together   Tamarind   Thyme - 11