Where Stories Never End - The New Chapter

7 Years On....

2011-12-02T18:33:00.001+08:00

Anniversaries...Birthdays....Christmas....New Year....It's December AGAIN!!

What's it all to me this year?

Blank Blank Blank

What's it all to me every year?

Blank Blank Blank

I feel numb and that's the way I feel each December. But this year it's complete abyss!

December has disappointed me many years now. It has not brought me wishes. It has not brought me joy. Instead it has brought me rage, anger, sadness and complete abyss.

The moment I have an inkling of hope that perhaps...(just maybe perhaps) this year would be different, I get disappointed again.

So this year, instead of feeling "hopeful" and "dreamy" and "wishful"...I'd rather remain NUMB.

That way, nothing can hurt me. That way, I feel less disappointed and more contented.

That way, I acknowledge that December means nothing to me for the last 5 years!

That way, even ordinary routine on a special day wouldn't seem soooo bad!

That way, even a meal at a mediocre restaurant (that we've been to many many many times before) would be enough to satisfy my tummy!

That way, I don't have to stress myself about buying gifts since I'm reciprocrating what I'm receiving!

That way, we shall come to an understanding that December is now meaningless to me!

That way, nobody needs to stress about what gifts to get, how much they can spend, how much they ought to spend etc.!

That way, I can focus on spending on groceries and marketing and make everyone happy!

That way...is possibly the way this December will end up!

Kudos to December....what shall New Year bring?!!

h.y.p.o.c.r.i.s.y

2011-10-20T16:18:00.000+08:00

"Keep your friends close, and your enemies (competitors) closer"

Somehow you can never trust someone completely. Always have reservations about a person save and except your family members. I usually can sense hypocrites miles away but not this one. I know she's a potential threat and immensely sly when it comes to competition. But didn't think that she would react that way. I suppose survival instincts show that - you must do whatever to survive in this world even if it means losing a friend.

Friend? Is that who I am to her? How do you expect me to be her friend? How do you expect me to keep friends like that?

I thought you were sincere. I thought you were honest. I thought you were honourable.

From what I hear, you are foolish, unwise, and a wrecker. No wonder your life is not peaceful!

It's not 'healthy competition' if you rope your helpers and leave us with none. It's not healthy if you poke your nose into other people's business. It's not healthy if you under-cut or short-changed us.

Then you can advice me to be patient??!!

Thanksss...it was nice knowing you. It was worth knowing you....

Good luck and hope you find happiness in your life!

Proud mother!

2011-10-18T16:17:00.000+08:00

You know when you're doing things right as a parent when......the School Calls with Good News!!

SMART School called.

2 weeks back our dear Aemir sat for a Basic Entrance Test. It was a 1 1/2 hour paper but our boy finished & handed in his paper after 30mins! I'm not sure if he's too confident about it but when the father returned to the exam hall, discovered he was not on his desk, the father told him to check his paper again!!! Check 5 mins & DONE!!!

It was hilarious and worrying at the same time.

Today I received a delightful call and was told that he excelled in all 3 papers (English, BM & Maths). Basically he scored all As for his test! And he has been accepted at the school for next year.....and a letter of offer shall follow suit before the school holidays informing us when to get his uniform and books for next year.

WOW!!! Looks like lots of expenditure before he starts school.

And plenty of white/black shoes to get!!

Whatever it is, I'm so happy for him....and I know he's a smart boy - although playful most of the time!

Congrats my boy!

They are Hitched

2011-10-18T16:01:00.000+08:00

My buddy and I go a loooonnnggg loooonnnngggg way and we do manage to "find" time to catch up with things (twice a year...maybe 3x - which is sad!). Nevertheless we do know what the other has been up to, EXCEPT the moment she got "hitched"

It was good news for me to hear that she got engaged but months later I get an invitation to their reception....hmmmm still thinking that it's their wedding reception, I was honoured to attend. Then after much investigation, I discovered that they got hitched 2 months backs (without telling me!!!!!)

DARN!! DARN!! DARN!!! I have no qualms about it because I'm soooo very happy for her!!!! It's the moment I've been waiting for ....and after (??) boyfriends, finally she met someone but unfortunately I've never met him till this day. I guess he doesn't want to meet me either. Anyways, to be invited for her post-wedding reception is already a 'gift'....EXCEPT that it'll be at a BAR!

If only the invitation came earlier - before my transformation, I wouldn't be scratching my head thinking of how to dress for the occasion and how people would respond to a hijaber entering a BAR!!

I gotta get all the fashion magazines out so that I won't feel out of place for the occasion!

And now they are "hitched"...can't wait for the babies to 'pop' (although they claim they don't want any)...

congratulations buddy!

"H.I.J.A.B.E.R.S"

2011-09-27T17:08:00.000+08:00

As you know, I've just recently started wearing the hijab ...and recently I've learned that my cousin has followed suit....(*smiles* I'm not alone here!)

A few days ago, I just learned of an icon and blogger called Maria Elena and also discovered who Hana Tajima is. (Forgive me....I'm just a late bloomer)

It is interesting to know and compare experiences of first-time 'hijabers' (which is the term used by youngsters these days). Reading Maria's blog, I see similar experiences that I have faced and am facing lately.

1. Unrecognisable
I can walk around in the office unnoticed! Pretty much invincible because people have not gotten used to this new image walking around. Then, when I greet clients, they have a weird look on their face - trying hard to think where they've seen this face before. It won't click until I mention my name.

2. The Treatment
Yup! People treat you differently. I've been called "Puan Sri" "Ustazah" ...bowed at with respect (as though I'm some big shot Menteri)....And then there's the "Alhamdulillah" and "Masya Allah" and "Subhanallah"....(semualah keluar). But how do you respond to such reactions from people around you? I can't say "Enough! It's only a piece of cloth covering my head"
I can't say "Oh shut up! I've heard it before" or even "Gotta problem with it?"

So my response so far has been...smile, nod, giggle, walk away...
Only because I don't know if theire reactions are sincere and complimentary or perhaps in awe and disgust! Who knows rite?

But I do which people would treat me indifferently. Just because I am now a hijaber doesn't me my entire nature HAS to change. I know I can't be showing off too much skin and wearing skin-tight clothes. I know I have to watch my mannerisms....don't offer to shake hands with everybody - must be careful! (This a bit difficult to judge...men usually don't offer to shake you hands if they see you wearing tudung. But I believe to be professional it is ok to greet someone (even a male) by shaking their hands...Nonetheless, there's no strict rule about it!)

3. The Styles

butikpinkku.blogspot.com

I am glad that I have been complimented on the way I wear my hijab (lilit the selendang..). I'm blessed to be lilit-inclined and have learned it through Youtube. Thanks to all the Youtubers for uploading your tutorials especially FaraButikpinkku.

I have also turned to Dara Magazine monthly for various styles and tudung fashion.

At the end of the day, it depends on how creative you are when wearing your tudung. As long as the basics are there, I doubt you can go wrong.

And unlike people that wear the ready-to-wear-tudung or tudung express with the awning, I think I'm better off with the selendangs, bawals and pashmina because I can never get bored. Also it's the only range that I can afford at the moment.

Everyday I get this "How do you lilit your tudung?"

"Starts from here, pin here and you go round & round pin again DONE....selalu ikut citarasa sendiri!!"

To be honest, it doesn't take too long to discover your own style (one that you're comfortable with) for work and weekends you can mengada-ngada try other styles if you want!

With designers like Hana Tajima, you'll definitely be inspired by her creations. Sleek and simple - just like her Japanese descent.

InsyaAllah, I hope to be closer to Allah s.a.w by wearing the hijab & bertutup aurat.

The fashion & styles come secondary....

In fact, I do hope that I can introduce these ladies here about different styles (got some offers already!).

xoxo...Happy Trying!

NEWS FLASH: "Shocking Reasons why Malaysians are Living Beyond their Means"

2011-09-22T12:40:00.001+08:00

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/9/22/nation/9550278&sec=nation

The Star Newspaper today revealed a "shocking" survey about why Malaysians are living beyond their means..

They wronged the people for not managing their finances well.

I find even the Headlines shocking...It has shocked me that they are ONLY JUST discovering this habit from Malaysians. It is the culture in Malaysia to lepak at the malls....ONLY because there are soo many to choose from. Then they complain that students from schools and colleges hang out at the malls, passing their time away doing absolutely nothing except watching passer-bys and causing a social havoc. Can you suggest any other places they can go to for entertainment or socialising?

In Europe you find many many many parks that are big, clean, "green" (especially) and welcoming to hang out. Even to have a picnic under the shady tree. If you complain that it's the weather, then after 3pm is pretty ideal to have a picnic in the park - get some fresh air, read a book, fly a kite, play ball.....But are there any decent parks around for us to do that? If there are, then are Malaysians keen to have a picnic at the park?

I find that Malaysians are too afraid of the sun and heat that they tend to have activities indoors. An afternoon at the park (if you provide) may be the last thing on their minds. And if couples go to parks, they religious departments will create a stirr and accuse them of khalwat. If they are non-Muslims then, there can be no such public display of affection.

Then how about entertainment parks? Theme parks? Berjaya has created an indoor theme park but how well is it patronised? It's a social stigma amongst parents of secondary school children to allow their kids to go there. Simply because they are not behaving well at such places. It's not the same excitement for an indoor theme park and an outdoor one. Even I wouldn't dream of going there.

The next outdoor theme park is either Sunway or Genting. I think most of us have gone there at least once. But you can never go there too many times since it gets boring and costly.

In short, Malls and Supermarkets are the only places that caters to our weekend entertainment especially since there're so many to choose from.

In the article, it addresses the issue of credit card debts. I'm afraid this is on the onus of the card-user. Anyone who does not monitor their expenses using credit cards can be a victim of credit card debts. This I have to blame the banks....for making it too easy to approve credit cards to those who can't really afford it. Perhaps limiting their credit limit to below RM5000 according to their income. Banks allow these financially incapable individuals to fall prey to own too many credit cards.

In my opinion, the moment you swipe your credit card worth more than you can pay, you are on your way to being a bankrupt!!

Another astonishing discovery is:

“In one of our surveys, we were shocked that many children did not even know where money came from,” he said, adding that most replied “the ATM (automated teller machine).

“And, they do not believe that their parents have to work to earn money,” Selvaraj added.

- from The Star

SERIOUSLY?!!! Why aren't children made aware of where money comes from?
They don't grow on trees and they certainly don't just come out of ATMs. I feel sorry for these children and even more so for their parents for not teaching them the essence of financial management at a young age.

Children must be taught that money doesn't come easily. These days parents just throw money like it's nothing....everything buy buy buy!

There comes a point when parents need to step up and tell their children that money spent is hard-earned money from your own sweat and blood.

Last time it was easier to picture a parent working hard to earn a living because they are labourers and you can literally see & smell their sweat when they work or after they return from work. Today, most parents are executives in offices and the only sweat they produce is when they walk to their cars at the carpark. Children don't see how hard you work...it's difficult for them to visualise it these days.

So, Malaysians, let's change the way we entertain ourselves and let's be a little bit more thrifty when it comes to spending. Ask yourself if you really really really need it.....and adopt a 'recycling' attitude from now on!

Good luck..

Transformer

2011-09-14T16:14:00.001+08:00

You'd think it's the effect of Transformers 3: The Dark Moon. Or perhaps it's the effect of all the dramas that I've been following...

I think it is genuine and I believe Allah s.a.w. has 'spoken' and led me to a virtuous path of rightousness (must check dictionary) ....

The Holy Month of Ramadan has led me back to the right path..has answered "someone's" prayers for me to turn over a fresh leaf. (I use the term 'fresh' because there's nothing new about me except the way I look)

I have learned to embrace the idea of wearing a hijab. It has lingered in my head for a while but I have never been brave enough to wear it. I do not want to jump straight into the idea because I need to adjust to a different way of living...a change in lifestyle and habits.

I don't know why it's such a gender-biased notion that one who wears a hijab must act a certain manner. Even I fall prey to such notions and admit that I snigger at the sight of a couple (woman with hijab & a guy) holding hands and cuddling in public, but I seem to allow such events to occur if the woman is hijab-less. WHY?!! WHY?!! WHY?!!!

Also, there are certain places that women with hijabs do not patronise...like lounges or the bars. Fine!!! They sell alcohol but some restaurants sell alcohol there's no stigmas if one patronises such places. I guess hijabs and vices do not get along!

So, there's a whole new world for me to explore and I can only see it through the eyes of a hijab-wearing individual. Even people view and treat me differently. I do not think I've changed as a person - personality-wise. I do not think I am capable of such transformation at that level but people seem to think that just because I wear a hijab now, I am not lively and bubbly like I used to be.

Not only that, people seem to stare at me in awe. Act less wild and erratic...some even question what made me decide to wear a hijab.

I'd just like to clarify that...NOTHING MADE me want to wear a hijab. I did not go through a 'traumatic' experience. I don't think anyone needs to go through such a phase in life. I doubt I am going through an identity crisis or a mid-life crisis. Honestly, it just felt right and the time is right to wear the hijab. It suits me, I'm comfortable and Alhamdulillah I have no complaints (so far hehehhe)

I do hate it when people think I'm now "nice". OH PLEASE!!! Clearing the air again, I am the same person you know a month back....I am loud, crazy, and just the way I am. I don't think wearing a hijab should make me act any different...BUT someone people expect me to.

If only a shawl could do such magic and make the devil into an angel...That Shawl must be the hottest selling item in town!!

It's bullshit if u say "A hijab-wearing person is more well-mannered than a hijab-less person"

I started as a hijab-less person...and a hijab doesn't even make u a better person...it just LEADS u to be a better person because society expects you to potrait yourself as a better person. It's up to the individual to be a better person and it should be what the society expects or determine.

Hijab or NOT I am the same!!

I must say I love it because I don't have to blow-dry my hair every morning...(tiresome)

but I do have to iron my shawl EVERY morning (also tiresome)....NO DIFFERENCE!!!

Surprised? I think I look kurus!!!

My left profile is BEST!

My right profile is SEDUCTIVE?!!

Oooo......

Is it MY CALLiNG?!!

2011-08-08T16:13:00.000+08:00

MIRACLES OF RAMADHAN

One does not realise the "gifts" Allah s.a.w. brings us this Holy Month of Ramadhan until.....

you begin to see a Transformation from 'Uncovered' to 'Covered'!

Same Old Me

Same Me Uncovered

I used to think that it will take a lot of rebelling and persuading before I decide to take a "BIG" step to "Cover" myself. But God works in miracles and I can sense that my transformation or hijrah towards the Hijab will be a smooth transition. I'd like it to be a smooth transition because I think I still fear that I may not be ready for that "BIG Step"...and should I choose to embark on that journey, there's no looking back (even though it's for the best!)

I also fear that my personality will not suit the image that I will potrait. It's always been a gender issue that a 'covered' girl must act a certain way ["..bersopan...ayu...baik ...rajin solat etc.."] In fact I will persevere to be THAT kind of girl but like any transformation it will take time. On the other hand, I have come across many 'covered' people who behave even worse than I. Therefore, I am glad that at least, I am true to myself and am only embarking on this New-found journey because I AM READY!

Anyway, these days, the Muslimah fashion industry has boomed and has created many different styles and designs to suit each individual character. I am glad that I received my 'calling' now....but even more so that I received it before it is too LATE!

I also know that for those people who know me, they will question and wonder what happened? What made me decide to "cover-up"? In short, "Nothing MADE me decide, I just decided it was time."

I know many people who have transitioned and they are still the same person they were before. It's not the appearance or the attire that makes the individual. It's the person himself, all body and soul that makes the person that you are.

I also know that I'll be subjected to lots of criticisms and hope that there's more Good than Bad. I have been called "makcik" whilst wearing a hijab but on the other hand, I have been called "adik". So like a coin, there are 2 sides of the story. You can hate me for 'covering' up or you can respect my decision for covering-up. At the end of the day, only I can decide which way to lead my own life.

Having said that, I am not willing to take a GIANT LEAP...instead, I will take teeny-weeny steps, little baby steps, tip-toes..... before a FULL TRANSFORMATION!!! Wish me luck and May Allah give me strength to face anything that comes in my way. Amin.

Targeted New Look

Still a Yummy Mummy?!

Israk & Mikraj - 27 Rejab : A Wake-Up Call

2011-06-29T10:36:00.000+08:00

Today is a very important day for all Muslims since it represents the calling of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w to meet Allah s.w.t and the beginnings of umat-umat Rasulullah.

I have learned of this historical day from my own Ustaz when I was younger but due to the influence of Western culture..I admit ...that I have forgotten what this day meant for all Muslims. Therefore, it is a wake-up call for me. Alhamdulillah I hope I am not too late to realise that I must be a good Muslim.

Also as a mother, I must adopt a good Muslim culture at home and educate and raise my children to be good Muslims as well. I have limited knowledge of Islamic teachings and I only know what I learned at school, from my parents and teachers. I hope I can impart whatever knowledge I have to my children - at least they learn something from me. If I err in some areas, I hope that someone can correct me.

I should read to my children about the historical events of Islam - like my grandma used to read to me. I found interest in it then because I wasn't so influenced by the west.

I hope to leave my western lifestyle and lead life as a good Muslim - even dress like one.

Insya Allah, I hope this Wake Up Call will be taken seriously as I do not want it to be too late and regret it later on.

Amin

When it ALL comes Crashing Down!!

2011-06-27T12:31:00.000+08:00

LIFE .... One cannot predict what Life brings us. A moment of happiness and lifetime of togetherness can come crashing down in an instant. But we cannot allow ourselves to be swept away in "the darkness" because there's always tomorrow as long as the sun shines in the morning. We cannot allow anyone to blame us for "the darkness"...the dark clouds that hangs above us...We must always rise and shine again - just like the sun - and hope for a better tomorrow, a new beginning and a clearer future.

When a child has been taken, it cannot be your fault

When a child has been taken, do not be sad

On the other side, someone is joyously waiting

Allah s.a.w sees the BIGGER picture - and must truly love that child!

How is it your fault when one looses a child?

Did you cause the accident? Did you bring bad luck?

Did someone make it look like you caused the accident?

Did someone make sure you do not enjoy the happiness you deserve?

Did someone wish for this to happen?

Did you wish for this to happen?

...MANY questions linger in your mind but Who can tell you the correct answer?

NOBODY!!

You can spend the rest of your life regretting and blaming yourself for what happened but you will never find peace with yourself that way. You can always say this Life was not meant for you...and you will never find harmony.

At this hour of remorse, nobody can find the right words to say...Fear to make another step will leave you in regret forever. If LOVE is what you're looking for and if LOVE is what you've found, never be afraid to LEAP - regardless of the people around you.

But TO LEAP requires the correct MOMENT! LEAPING forward without LOOKING, without DIRECTION, lands you in Abyss...

Some things cannot be Rushed...Some things take time to Nurture and Grow...just like a seedling requiring Tender Loving Care. Show your support, emphatise and be patient...even at the expense of yourself ....Try not to look back....Consider your 'reverse' mode irreparable...Ensure you also have support to keep you thriving...And when it has Matured...you know THE TIME IS RIGHT!

Embarrassment always comes together in situations like this. However, it is not time for you to surrender...People talk People assume People exaggerate and...People also FORGET! Just like you, they need time to see the bigger picture....soon they will forget and that's when we start Forgiving.

Today may be the Worst day in Your Life...
But as each day passes by
Today will seem petty

Be Strong. Be Patient. Be Wise. BE-LIEVE!!

p/s: To All that have faced being Jilted & Grieving. You have not run out of time!

End of Nora Saga

2011-06-23T10:40:00.001+08:00

No more Nora Elena......THE END!!

If I hadn't watched the last episode before watching the entire series from the beginning, I think I would have cried buckets of water!!

Nonetheless, everyone agreed that it was a very good series and I think if I ever need reminding of how to appreciate my Man more.....I don't have to read that book my Man bought for me, I need to just watch the middle bits of NE!!

Sometimes we take people for granted but we should never deliberately take our loved ones for granted. They are the pillars of our strengths and success. They are there when we are in need - whether in health or in wealth. Without them, we are just rubbles on a construction site - waiting to be crushed some more, dumped somewhere or re-used.

I have learned and this series has proved to me that - No matter what, No matter where, It's also home if Love is there!!

Just perservere for something/ someone that you LOVE.....

Time will tell whether they've earned your LOVE

And soon....they will LOVE you in return!

The Nora Addiction

2011-06-20T14:26:00.000+08:00

Have you stayed at home one weekday and watched one of the housewives drama telecast on our local tv channels? Usually it comes on from 2.30pm to 6-7pm...and they run consecutively.

When I was a "temp-housewife", I was hooked to an Indonesian Sinetron called Intan. I even got round to getting my husband hooked to it because they have re-runs at 11pm at night too. Unlike the Sinetrons, our locally produced drama only has at the most 40episodes!! hehehhe....

Of course now that I'm working, there's no chance of following these dramas religiously! ....until one day when I was home on leave, I happened to be sitting down at around 7pm doing nothing and tuned in to TV3....and watch Episode 1 of Nora Elena - starring Siti Saleha & Aaron Aziz.

I like her acting from Ustaz Amirul and his acting from the Singaporean production Triple9. Nonetheless they make such a sweet couple even though in reality, there's a vast difference in age!

This drama tells the story of a village girl who was raped when she was 15 by one of the kampung boys. She befriended a Malay-Chinese girl who had a brother (Seth) and when she moved away from the village, they all lost touch. Fate brought them back together and after 10 years of searching Seth found Nora (the love of his life). It wasn't as easy as that because it's also a story of unrequited love, the love triangle & jealousy exes.

Thank god for TontonTV (http://www.tonton.com.my/ ), I can view all episodes during my free time. Unfortunately, I am hooked to it and can't wait to finish the series.

Watching Nora Elena, I wonder to myself:

Is there such a man who loves this woman like Seth?
Seth's love for Nora is beyond this world without the "guilt factor" which comes with it. Right?
Would any woman sacrifice her happiness for her family's dignity?
Would I marry a man I didn't love?
Do I treat my man like he ought to be treated?
Does my man treat me like I ought to be treated?
How long can one maintain the passion in a marriage?
Does or Can the passion fade away?
Is it possible to be in "honeymoon mode" forever?

Hahahahhaha...Call it my La-La Land when I watch NE....but it also brings tears to anyone who can relate to the story line.

Perhaps my next task is to find the novel it's been adapted from entitled "Kasih Yang Suci".

Till my next entry on NE....

When the Shoe was More Important...

2011-04-06T18:17:00.000+08:00

Tired after a day's work I received a call....

"I brought the wrong shoe. Can you send the correct one to me?"

It sounded important and despite being tired, I rounded the kids and we all got in the car to send the shoe. I roughly knew where it was...but at night, dark & tired....when I got to the place, I just couldn't seem to find it. Nevertheless, we went round the block 3-4 times...in and out dark alleys...and when I reached out for my BB....

Damn...Low Battery...Can't call out/ Receive calls!!

That's the problem with BB. When you battery is a certain %, you can't call out or receive any calls. Not even SMS anyone!!! Pretty dangerous is you ask me. And this is not the first time that I HAD to make an IMPORTANT call and my BB died on me!!!

After about 1 hour of making our rounds, I decided to call it quits. The kids too were disappointed but I can't help it. The longer we wait, the more frustrated we'll get.

When I got back - pretty exhausted...I was told that I received a call about the shoe not arriving after 1 hour of waiting. That's exactly what I thought would happen.

I told my son to return the call and I don't know what transpired in the conversation but I received a call within minutes on my handphone screaming...

"Why you so stupid? If you dunno the place, why didn't bring your handphone..."

"Stupid?!! You're the stupid one!!" and I hung up!

I refused to be yelled at simply because I tried to do a good deed but ended up being called "stupid" without even hearing my explanation out first!

Seriously....he's more worried about the shoe arriving on time that his family. After 1 hour not arriving with (or without) the shoe, naturally one would wonder whether anything could have happened (i.e. accident or mugged or punctured tyres) but the God-damned shoe was more important !

Too important that I got yelled at for making him wait 1 hour and the game was over by then. I bet it's only because he was embarrassed amongst his colleagues that showed his own stupidity!

Seriously...now I can the Silent Treatment...for doing a good deed , getting lost with kids, making 3-4 rounds of the place, distressed because I can't call out......

Well I,too, can play that game!! We'll see who lasts longer!

Movie Review - The King's Speech

2011-02-21T18:07:00.000+08:00

Cast: Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Geoffrey Rush

I didn't expect anything much from this movie - looking at its dull title, with an overwhelmingly good cast - I thought I'd give this movie a try.

Surprisingly, it wasn't as dull as its title and not as boring as I was warned. I suppose you MUST watch it when you're fresh and ready to "eat" lots of words!

I sat there watching it with my son and we were both enthused by the movie and Colin's spectacular performance mimicking the stuttering King George.

It was a moving story that went beyond words since you don't realise that a King needs to give many speeches during his reign as King and one needs to be authoritative to show POWER!

Colin certainly did that.

Recommend: **** A film to watch and well deserved Oscar nomination

Where has the Weekend gone??

2011-02-21T14:28:00.000+08:00

Some weekends you plan to do many things, get soooo many things done and then Monday appears and you wonder "Where has the Weekend gone?"

This weekend I did have many things planned - like waking up early and taking the kids for pancakes at McDonalds. Do some grocery shopping and make sure we hit some balls at the driving range....but ended up doing.....?????

Woke up late (the whole household), planned to go for late pancakes but diverted to showrooms at Cheras. No pancakes for lunch but HK Kuey Teow instead. Went to sis-in-laws' - kids played with each other while adults sat down and chit-chat. Bid farewell to Lil Sis-in-law before her return to her new country. And got home, felt ill & took a nap!

Next morning, got up and went grocery shopping, went for lunch + shopping w kids. Hubby ended up shopping and kids got themselves a book each. Myself personally, I didn't shop (again!!! no surprise) At night, sat down to watch a HBO movie with kids until their bedtime (in between entertaining Daughter with her new sticker storybook) Then put on "Burlesque" in my room....until half-way Hubby wanted to watch Arsenal match!

Now I'm wondering - where has my weekend gone? I certainly didn't feel anything I did was productive / therapeutic.

We'll see the next weekend

THE NEW CHAPTER - Ep 1

2011-02-21T14:10:00.000+08:00

End of 2010: December

It's been 2 months since we returned from UK. Hello Malaysia!! And already you can sense the pressure that is expected of us.

Dealing with Traffic:

It was horrifying on my first drive on Malaysian roads - yet AGAIN! Well....compared to the courteous, law-abidding drivers in UK - it is the complete opposite here. It was stressful from the moment you put your gear into D!

Somewhat like the cartoons you watch on Cartoon Network...cars swerving left right and center...everyone's in a rush....and NOT signalling! Overtaking left and right....NOT signalling!! Beating the lights....motorcyclists included!! And pedestrians J-walking everywhere!!! Of course we have an abundance of motorcyclists around compared to UK....and they are the most hazardous of the lot! I probably have to double check (triple check) everytime I want to switch lanes...JUST IN CASE...some unknown motorcyclist decides to overtake me, or squeeze in between cars. Next comes owners in 'little cars' like our Peroduas (the Kancil, the MyVi, the Kelisa....u name it!!) Any God forsaken 'little car' on the road is a sign of DANGER!!! Just like the motorcyclists, they loving squeezing between us big cars....and drive onto any road they can go through. Leave a space and u find a 'little car'!!!

Not forgetting our pedestrians who think that they can cross any road as they please....You wonder if they intentionally want to get HIT! Don't they love their lives? Are they on a mission to TEST us drivers?

It used to be that moving cars are PEST!! But now the scene has moved on into the parking lots. Again the culprits are 'little cars' and motorcyclists!!! Drive into a secured parking lot and you think people park decently in the yellow boxes???? INSTEAD...it's like a wholesale market of car parking indiscriminately anywhere they can fit their can into a space. THANK GOD...for some common sense they try not to obstruct oncoming traffic!!

Between beams of parking lots....(often not a designated parking space) at the curbside, ON the curbside......under ramps, along the ramps....u name it ...u find it!!! No matter how many CLAMPING ZONE signboards around, these drivers do not fear their vehicles being clamped for parking indiscriminately!!! Even signboards saying CLAMPING operational for 24 hours do not scare them....perhaps RM100 is not a high enough FINE?!!! Or they know the authorities do not REALLY operate for 24 hours...and they don't REALLY have enough clamps to go around!!!

Arrrggghhhh.....What's the use of all these LAWS when everyone breaks them and no one enforces them?

Responsibilities:

The moment we got back....we got a whole load more responsibilities to carry on our shoulders. Now it's no longer JUST THE 4 of US!!! It is the WHOLE FAMILY (plus extended generations)!!!

The marketing for household back to me. The cleaning and washing and cooking...back to me. I'm not talking about our 3 bedroom house.....small enough for 1 person to look after....the rooms have tripled and the people to feed have tripled as well!! The mess has probably quadrapled (if not more)!!!

That's only 1/4 of the story & responsibilities!!! Let's not start about those outside the house proper. Relatives, parents, in-laws, siblings, grandparents, nieces, nephews, aunties, uncles.......Is that why the Europeans move out at 18-21? Once married they only worry about their own family? I once despised that attitude but sometimes there is some logic in that. However, as Asians, we have been raised into an integrated family ...and everything we do is AS A FAMILY!!! (inclusive of all extended family members) It's more FUN!!!

Don't get me wrong! I LOVE MY FAMILY & all its EXTENSIONS! But please, lift some of our burden and spread "the love"!

Nonetheless, the responsibilities are in abundance and shared amongst us!!!

Could just be too much to handle at the moment?

End of February 2011:

We've celebrated New Years' and have just welcomed the Year of the Rabbit!

Work has started for everyone - including the children. Hubby has secured a job (of which - into his 2nd month, he's still unsure if he wants to stay but boasts about his boss and clients). I have started my pupillage - which has its ups & downs - depending on the workload that I get.

Kids started school and enjoying the company of their friends. Son has developed and caught up with all his friends very fast. His schedule is ultra-busy every week and yet he leaves no time for rest over the weekend. I fear that he may not enjoy his childhood as he should. Daughter is picking up the Malay language fast. I'm sure she can soon form a sentence without an English word in it. She already understands Malay pretty well so we can't speak of her in Malay anymore.

Back to the question - Are we happy?

The start was a bit rough for everyone but we've overcomed it and gotten used to our routine...and I dare say we're happy (the Asian Family-kinda-way)

By that I mean, non-stop parenting and dedication. We struggle when it comes to dealing with the unexpected but at the end of the day, we continue doing what we do best - Being a Family! Weekends are now strictly for us to spend time with the Kids! If it means taking them out for a meal, I'll do it....if it means just taking them out (even if it is to the Car Wash) i'll do it because I know they need time with me!

So no matter what, I reserve my weekends with my Kids!

The Beginning of THE NEW CHAPTER

2011-02-21T13:55:00.000+08:00

Obviously it's been ages since I wrote in this blog....which simply means that I have lots of stories to tell.

Going by the Blog title "Where stories Never End"......This New Chapter embarks upon a journey filled with joy, laughter, ambition, stress, worries....and much more! Life itself will have no meaning without all the jumbled-up emotions that we face, experience and overcome each day.

Taking baby steps out into the urban jungle... I brave myself to face the challenges that lie ahead! With many unexpected events, it will not only make me stronger, but definitely make me WISER!

2009-2010: My Disappearance

It was a very BIG decision to move to UK. The family, the kids, the husband - the sacrifice that each of us had to make. Leaving the loved ones behind, we embarked on an adventure to the other side of the world - The United Kingdom!

Off we went to relocate at Bristol. We based ourselves about 10mins away from the university...and 30mins from the Florence of England - BATH. We settled in pretty quickly...scouted for nurseries around the area and found 2 ideal ones for each kid. Even though they were separated during the day, they still remained the closest of buddies at other times. Despite their rows and disputes, they still look for each other in times of need. That's how we raised them - the great sibling bonding!

Nonetheless, they settled in the fastest. IT was all a great adventure for them - new experience, culture, friends and routine. No doubt it was toughest for us parents and even tougher for their father. Mother feels blessed to have such an understanding person for a partner. (Aren't I fortunate?)

We were very happy - just the 4 of us - without all the complications of extended families & intrusions into our personal lives. All we had to do was take care of ourselves ; our family (the 4 of us). Then there was a 5th person - the youngest grandma in the family - that joined us for 6 mths. How blessed Mother feels again that she has help at home....and especially to mind her kids. (Aren't I fortunate?) Upon reflection, I couldn't have done it without them!!

So now it was the 5 of us ...and still things are no complicated. Life was SIMPLE!! No great expectations and overburdens ...and stressing about other people...All we had to do was take care of 5 of us!! WE WERE HAPPY!

Indeed we had less quarrels and more comprising....the communication was better....the kids even had time to see Father and PLAY with him. There was plenty of laughter at home...Life was SIMPLE! No doubt we felt like newlyweds AGAIN!

Every moment spent in UK will always be cherished forever. Indeed....we also owe it to our favourite person - Nanny. Nanny made us feel at home abroad. Nanny made us feel welcomed...fed us with all the English food she could cook. Sonny's fav was her Roast Lamb! Nanny's visits to us - though a few - put smiles across the kids' face!!! They entertained her to their heart's content; and Nanny never failed to disappoint them!! Nanny exposed them to British culture...their 1st Xmas, their 1st snowfall, their 1st Roast!!! We love Nanny!

Of course there were times when we struggled...it wasn't just Mother or Father...everyone faced their dull moments. But we overcomed it with Love and Support from each other.

It was sad to leave our Britannia Crescent (No.13) = where the kids cycled around the neighbourhood, where we had snowball fights & rode on sledges, where we mowed the garden together, where we shovelled the snow together, where we cooked, bathed, ate and froze together......Goodbye Bristol!

Hello Malaysia! And how has it been? What has changed? Are we happy?

Mummy Diaries #6

2008-11-10T14:53:00.004+08:00

PHOTOS THAT YOU'VE BEEN WAITING FOR

Mummy Diaries #5

2008-10-27T15:59:00.002+08:00

Aemir is now 3 years old.
Ameera is now 6mths old.

Both adore each other - the brother being very protective of the little sister and the little sister learning new things from the big brother.

All is fair and well in our household except that we're saying good-bye to the old helper and welcoming a new one into the house. This means there will be a lot of adjusting especially with the kids getting used a new face around the house.

As for me, motherhood is really taking a toll on my health. I forget to eat (which is quite good because I've lost 10lbs since September) and I lack sleep....although I try taking short naps in the afternoon.

I'm glad there's another pair of hands to help around the house so that I can concentrate on my EU Law.

Perhaps I shall drop a line soon - since I have my own laptop now.

Have fun......Happy Hari Raya & Happy Deepavali to all!

Mummy Diaries #4

2008-08-15T11:01:00.003+08:00

Abang Aemir

"Abang Aemir" ...he's gotten used to being called Abang now since his teacher calls him the same. I guess it's the sign of being all grown-up.

Aemir's now potty training and the first week was TOUGH. At school, at home - all we did was clean up after him UNTIL I got really MAD and threatened to send him to the police station if he pees in his pants again.

I was very sure that he knows when he needs the loo but just can't be bothered to run and pee in his potty. So like a dog he pees anywhere and everywhere. What a pain! Then I made a deal with him that if he doesn't pee in his pants again, I'll get him whatever he wants at ToysRUs.

Finally he had enough scolding and he got better and better. Even the teacher praised him because he knows how to pulls down and put on his pants as well. Now during the day he only wears BRIEFS! (That saves me a lot of money on pampers!! That was the whole idea - with all the inflation & stuff)

Sometimes when we go out he promised that he'll be a "good boy" and puts on his briefs instead of his pampers. And he did it! We went to the supermarket with him wearing only his briefs and he only peed when we got home (in the toilet)!! I hope he didn't hold it that entire time.....i fear he'll get kidney stones or something.

Besides that Aemir has learned how to surf the internet. Even though he doesn't know how to read yet but pictures on the Yahoo! websites that he recognises he'll click on them. I now have to watch what he clicks on. Oh!! He knows how to switch on the computer on his own as well and turn off. Close page, open page, minimise and maximise page. He learns all that through observing us use the computer. AND HE'S NOT EVEN 3 YEARS OLD YET!!!!

Last Saturday 9 August, Aemir had Sports Day at school in conjunction with the Olympics 2008. Of course every child received a medal and they only had 1 event for every class. But overall, he did very well!!

This Saturday 16 August, Aemir has Holiday Camp. They'll visit Putrajaya and then pitch up tents at school, start a camp fire and sleep overnight. He seems excited about it but I dunno if he'll be able to sleep in school with his friends without us. It'll be the first time he's away from parents, grandparents and caregiver alike!! It should be fun to see......my lil boy being Independent!!

Anyway....all's good in Motherland but I sure hate cooking EVERYDAY for the family. I'm such a bad cook because nobody eats! :P

Mummy Diaries #3

2008-07-29T10:05:00.004+08:00

Our Little Ameera Qistina

Ameera turned 3mths old on 1st August and already her clothes are getting smaller. We think it's because she drinks a lot of milk. Her head is already very sturdy but of course she's not steady enough to sit on her bum. She loves it when you make her stand and get to stretch her legs.

She hates it when Big Brother comes along to smother her with lots of wet kisses.

She loves being carried (which baby doesn't?)

She found her hand and has been constantly playing and sucking it.

She just noticed her feet and keeps staring at them.

She hates it when you feed her late. She's HUNGRY!! (who wouldn't be cranky!)

She recognises people and when she's hungry...only Mummy can carry her!!

She's very smiley especially in the mornings.

She hates her triangular teether because she can never hang on to it for long.

She might be teething because she's drooling A LOT!

She loves being "supergirl" and thrown in the air!! (pretty brave for a lil girl!)

She just had her first hair cut at the saloon last week. Wasn't too difficult because she was sleeping on my shoulder. (Sshhh....I think it's a crooked haircut)

She mimics you when you eat infront of her - as though she's hungry for your food!

She stares at new faces and studies them.

She loves her bunny and butterflies and bees!

But we think she doesn't get enough sleep. Her nap times are short and many. NOt long at 1 stretch. She'd rather explore the world and sleep at night (like orang tua pulak!)

Mummy Diaries #2

2008-07-22T00:01:00.004+08:00

Our Latest Arrival

With the arrival of our second - Ameera Qistina - on 1 May 2008, life as a mother seems different compared to having just ONE child around. Now there's Aemir who's almost 3 years old and Ameera who's almost 3 months. A parent's attention has to be divided between these two. Any parent would say that they pay equal attention to all their kids and you know they would be lying because somehow, you'd be more than likely to pay more attention to one more than the other. Sometimes it's because they know how to attract your attention and not feel neglected. Sometimes it's just because they are less trouble.

In our case.....since Ameera is still small and doesn't know how to ask for things, naturally my attention is more towards her than big brother Aemir - who's become more & more talkative! So I think now Aemir feels somewhat left out and his behaviour shows that he lacks the attention that he used to receive from EVERYONE (extended family & friends included)!!!

Aemir's becoming a handful and it takes a lot of patience to "deal" with him nowadays. He's also getting smarter and you can't use your old tricks on him anymore. Also he's learned how to provide you with solutions and ideas so there's no way of "tricking" him. As a result, he gets more scolding from us for his bad behaviours and tantrums.

It must be wrong to scold your child but how else can I make him listen to me and discipline him. But I am thankful that Aemir understands when you explain to him from A to Z the reason why we scold him. He knows that he was in the wrong and somehow he'll feel really bad and manages to say "Sorry".

I'm also thankful that this sibling rivalry is not too EXTREME. I'm sure you've heard cases where the elder sibling will pinch and hit the younger one when no one is watching. With Aemir, he never does that. Instead he keeps kissing his lil sis and asking permission whether he can carry her. Despite all that you know he can get a little jealous too; especially when Ameera gets more attention than him in the crowd - he was watch and gaze at everyone's reaction.

With Aemir it is "Jealous Tapi Sayang"!!!

I hate myself for saying that I don't mind bein

Mummy Diaries #1

2008-07-15T23:19:00.002+08:00

Welcome to Mummy Diaries

This is the first time after a loooonnnggg time that I'm able to sit comfortably and blog. Ever since my first trimester I've been unable to blog as much as I'd like to because if I wasn't vomitting, I was tired. If I wasn't tired, I was spending time with Aemir. If I'm not spending time with Aemir, I'm sleeping. Yes!! That was basically my routine throughout my first trimester.

Then the 2nd trimester came.....feeling much better and tummy is more noticeable. Face got more round, so did the whole body!!Arrrggghhhh...I was gaining more energy compared to my 1st trimester and was going out & about running errands. It was like that until the 3rd trimester.

I was heavier but I had more energy than anyone could imagine (ONLY DURING THE DAY) At night, don't even try to wake me up. I'm fast asleep and dead tired! Imagine running around with twice your original weight. My feet would get so tired - then it's just another excuse for me to go for a pedicure. Aaahhhhh!!!!

Up until LABOUR DAY I was running around and DRIVING!! No! I Didn't have the luxury of hubby driving me everywhere because I was back in JB in preparation for the delivery. Aptly, my little girl, Ameera Qistina, was born on 1st May (Labour Day) weighing in approx. 3.175kg at 10:22pm. It was a "funny" birth experience.

At 1am 1st May, I discovered that I had a show. I pre-warned Aim(hubby) that the baby is due soon. 11am 1st May, I had another show and informed every uncle & aunties that I know because my parents were in USA at that time. Soon sms-es were coming in from US and Singapore telling me to go to the hospital. I was as cool as a cat because I thought that I'd wait for my water to break. I was too relaxed thinking that it'll be late in the evening before there's any sign of pain.

Finally, I check-into the hospital and the nurse found that I was 3-5cm dilated. This means that I had to be admitted immediately. Haha...this was about 4pm. At 6pm, Aim wanted to go back and freshen up and return with Aemir.

As soon as he left, the stronger contractions began. Initially I could tolerate the pain but after 30mins, it was intolerable and I called Aim to get him to return immediately because I needed someone to rub my back HARD! Pain was intensed and it comes and goes!!!Luckily, Aim brought my Aunt who performed rei-ki on my back to ease the pain.

Finally about 8pm, I told Aim to send Aemir & my Aunt back and return immediately thereafter because the baby is coming. I was sent to the labour room for the injection and the ethanox. It was PAINFUL & almost unbearable!

I was waiting for my water to break but it didn't and the midwife kept checking how much I've dilated. Up till about 7cm, I was pushing and pushing. Apparently I don't know how to push and that's delaying the entire birthing process. The midwife was relaxing until suddenly when she checked the baby's head was crowning. She called the doctor but doctor was breastfeeding her kid. I remember that I couldn't help pushing. There's was this constant urge to PUSH AND PUSH! All I wanted to do was push but the midwife told me to relax and breathe and pant while waiting for the doctor to come. If I pushed I would have torn my vagina...I panicked a bit because I knew I couldn't control my pushing any longer.

Finally when the doctor arrived, I was very relieved and before you knew it, within 5 mins of the doctor's arrival, out popped my little princess! She was crying and crying and crying (in anger). Thank God it wasn't too long unlike Aemir.

Phew!! What a relief.....

Now handling 2 kids.....how does it feel?

Expanding Our Horizons

2008-07-15T23:02:00.004+08:00

To Fans of Where Stories Never End:

Instead of creating another blog I've decided to post a new column called Mummy Diaries which will focus entirely on bringing up children - in particular my TWO adorable kids - Aemir & Ameera.

Children are the apple of their parents' eyes and you can definitely say bringing up a kid is not an easy task; especially that I have 2 of my very own. How do we cope? How best to discipline your children? Which type of care is preferred? I'm sure all mothers can relate to what I face each day with my kids. Looking forward to sharing stories and hearing comments from mothers, mothers-to-be and mothers-wannabe alike.

XOXOXO

NEWS FLASH

2008-07-10T11:42:00.002+08:00

NEWS FLASH

Coming Soon to you directly from the Land of Smiles

"Where Stories Never End" will be Updated Soon

Stay Tuned for the following:

1. Our New Arrival

2. Being Mother of TWO

3. Jealousy & Sibling Rivalry:

How Soon can You Detect?

4. Back to Business as Usual!

XOXOXO

Sab

Renovations, Deliveries & Anxieties

2008-04-07T10:41:00.002+08:00

Indeed, my due date is coming soon and suddenly so many things are happening!

Renovations:
We're in the midst of renovating the apartment below and there's definitely plenty of knocking, drilling and NOISE during the day!! It's pointless to even switch on the TV because you can hardly hear anything.

But I'm amazed that as soon as Aemir returns from school (ard 12noon), he plays a bit and then he's off to sleep - even with the drilling and knocking going on!!! I guess when you're tired, you don't care!

When you ask Aemir who's house it is on the 6th floor. His answer would be: "Rumah rosak"
He saw the state of the apartment and I think he got a shock of his life when he saw bags of bricks lying around, a hole in the wall, no tiles etc..... And of course saw the bathtub in the middle of the room and said "Mama...Bathtub. Dirty Eeeiiiii...."

Yes...he's picked up so many words since he started school. Teacher says he learns very fast and he's very smart. But there's also a naughty side of him who loves to kacau his friends when class is going on. He'll be talking away with his friends while teacher is telling a story or he'll play on his own and divert the class's attention to him! Mind you....he's been punished a few times already....Had to be sent to the Thinking Chair and I guess they have to think about what wrong they've done to deserve such punishment.

Well....it is a healthy way of reasoning with the child...instead of the corporal punishment way we're used to during our time at school.

So with the renovations going smoothly, soon I'd have to pack to leave for JB in preparation for my delivery!

Delivery & Anxieties:
It's the time of the trimester when I get really anxious to meet my lil bun. I think Aemir's feeling it as well because some mornings he just totally refused to attend school! It takes us at least 30mins to reason with him, get him to bathe before school and send him off. At the school gates, he'll take his time SLLLOOOWWWLLLY taking off his shoes and with a sad face he says goodbye and walks in.

At times Aemir's accepting that he'll have an adik soon but at times he just refuses to acknowledge. Yesterday, when papa told him to kiss and wish adik goodnight, he came up to me and kissed my tummy and said "goodnight Adik"

Then when you say adik will have to sleep in the cot while he gets a bigger bed, he sulks and cries NO!! I hope he'll be able to share with his adik.

Anyway, it's Aemir's last week of school before we leave for JB and then he'll be home-schoolled with my aunt (Nenek Ru). I just hate the idea of packing so much stuff!!!

I better get on with it....so wish me a safe delivery!

First Day @ Kinddy

2008-02-01T13:35:00.000+08:00

1 Feb 2008 : Aemir's First Day at Kindergarten

We decided that it was about time Aemir gets some outside ("proper") education especially before the 2nd one comes along. So we enrolled him into a nearby kindergarten that is fully Montessori.

Getting up by 7.30am (latest) is tough for him since he usually sleeps until 8am or 9am! This morning, when I woke him up and mentioned school, he was ready and bursting to go. Forget the milk, forget the bath, forget brushing his teeth and forget breakfast - he wants to go to school now!

He's been looking forward to school ever since his 'observation day' and I don't blame him. He's at a stage where he loves mingling with kids around his age. You should see him and all his cousins.

So I had to force the breakfast and the bath before taking him to school - which is 5mins away. As soon as he arrived, you can see the gleeful delight on his face. Forget Mummy, Forget Kakak (the maid had to come along) ...."Aemir's at school and I shall do whatever I want."

The teacher gave him some Play-Doh to mess with but that didn't interest him until it was time for outside play. They were gathered in a circle while the teacher distributed their sunscreen around. Then they'd line-up [make a choo-choo train] while another teacher puts on their hats and off they went. Put on the shoes outside and to the playground it is!!!

Aemir attacked the slide first, then he headed for the sandpit and then he spotted several other kids watering the plants and so he joined in. It was sheer joy to be playing with water! This is because he's not allowed to do so at home except during bathtime. That's only because we dont have a garden for him to water any plants. Our balcony is plant-free...too small to fit any garden or potted plants since it's usually taken up by the laundry line.

After play, it was time for their snack. First, they must wash their hands and thereafter a plate and cup will be distributed to each kid. With their plates and cups, they find a place to sit down while waiting for the biscuits and juices to be served. You can always tell the obedient ones from the fresh ones!!

For the first time, I see Aemir obedient sit down at the table to finish his biscuit and drink before he comes out proudly to see me. And then, they had to sit in a circle for a Chinese New Year talk!

Aemir had to be told several times to sit on the RED LINE because he loves sitting in the middle of the circle instead. It was the hardest chore for him since he had to sit down for at least 15mins before the teacher announced it was playtime.

When playtime came, he grabbed a puzzle and sat down before he got distracted with the colouring session going on the next table. It was not long before the teacher gathered all the children again for an art-time demonstration. They each had to paste Chinese New Year pictures in a booklet. I saw Aemir eagerly waited for his turn but unfortunately they didn't have enough booklets to go around and he's stuck with sticking coloured tissue balls. The teacher informed me but I didn't mind since it wasn't an important celebration for him. But he insisted and tried to get to do whatever the rest of the children were doing. Rest assured, he did end up pasting some cut flowers and butterflies on a piece of paper and very proud of it!!

I suppose not having the same thing like his other friends taught him his FIRST LESSON: It's ok to be different!!!

Before you know it, it was time for LUNCH!!!! Wash hands first then sit down with hands on your lap while the food is being served. Obediently he sat down and as soon as the noodles got on his plate, he was so eager to eat and had a bite before the teacher caught him. They usually have a small singing session (something like saying a prayer - 'doa makan') before they eat. Aemir just went Bismillah and gobbled his food!!

Eating is always a task for Aemir but this time he did most of the feeding himself and I'm very proud of him! Then the kids waited for Jared's birthday cake to be served! (yes!! lucky for him it was another kid's birthday) All of them ate the chocolate cake before they were asked to wash their hands and face and brush their teeth after their lunch.

Next just before going home, they had some time for Phonics Zoo. Aemir was very interested for the first 5 letters and then it became boring. By then I know he was ready to go home as he was very very tired and sleepy already!

They completed the Phonics Zoo and Jared's Goodie-bags were given out....and off they went. School dismissed!!!

In the car, Aemir hurriedly opened the goodie-bag, had a sip of the Nutrigen before we reached home. At home, it was diaper change time and he was so sleepy that within the next 20mins he's fast asleep on his bed.

I bet he can't wait to tell Papa about school and can't wait till Monday comes for his 2nd Day at school.

Embracing 2 0 0 8

2008-01-11T22:02:00.000+08:00

H a p p y N e w Y e a r!!!

Only 11 days into 2008 and already there is a public holiday [ Awal Muharam ]. So to all Muslims out there - Selamat Maal Hijrah 1429!

Just a recap of the few days before ushering in 2008 - Yes....Thank you to all your Kind Wishes!

2 Dec: Our 3rd Anniversary

How time flies .... and we've been married for THREE Years already! Seems like just last year (and...sometimes it feels like we've been married for DECADES!) Since we share this special day with my parent's 30th Anniversary, we thought we'd make it a "FANCY" affair but unfortunately work calls for my darling father and we couldn't be together on this special day! [ We were in KL and they were in Malacca!!!]

But to make it a memorable affair for the two of us, my darling hubby sent me the most touching card that I've ever received from him. And without his knowledge, I shed a tear or two when I read the card!!! hehehehheeh.......

And to make it even more special, he took me out for dinner at Prime @ Le Meridien. It is this classy restaurant at the hotel and it is known for good steaks from Argentina, Australia and even their Kobe Beef from Korea. I was warned that it would be a hefty meal and so I saved some room for my tummy. When my lamb chops came.....yummmm.....it was lovely! Too bad we couldn't top it up with a glass of bubbly (or something similar) - just to festi-fy the evening!

Certainly I had a shock when the bill came. I must say, be prepared to pay a hefty sum for that hefty meal 'cause it was certainly THE MOST EXPENSIVE lamb chops and salad I've ever had!

Thank you Darling...Love you!

12 Dec: I turned 29!

hmmmm...not long before I hit the 3-0. But in the meantime, I shall enjoy the last year of my twenties! On that note, I don't feel any bit older than I was last year. I guess after I hit 25 I stopped counting how old I am and stop worrying about ageing and concentrating on living a youthful life!

It was a small affair with the family (the 3 of us). Hmmmm....we didn't exactly go out for dinner - nor did I have a birthday cake on that day - only because we celebrated my birthday a few days earlier with my nieces and nephews! But I didn't mind as to me, it was just another birthday! Again , the card my darling hubby sent me made me CRY! He either picked the Perfect Card that Touched my Heart or the Pregnancy hormones are running WILD! Nonetheless, it was certainly a card to be treasured!

Then he started pestering me on what I wanted for my birthday. Honestly , it used to be an easy question for me to answer - since I usually plan ahead and scout around for what I'd like to receive as my birthday present. But this time around, I honestly didn't have a clue what I wanted! I guess this put dear hubby on the spot - not knowing what to get for me on my birthday!

He came up with:

a new pair of glasses [ 1 for each day of the week]
Kenwood Chef Mixing Bowl ( so I can bake him some cream puffs)
RM600 worth of anything
SK-II products (I hope he doesn't think I'm getting uglier!)
etc.

And I didn't think I need any of those except a new pair of glasses (NOT 7 pairs!). In the end, we came across a lovely ruby red leather box which came with the SK-II Facial set and he got me that on the spot! Yippeee.....And he promised me the glasses (which I still haven't gotten till today - my fault really!)

That's why I Love My Husband!!!!!

15 Dec: No Maid

My caregiver (maid) decided to return to her hometown for Hari Raya Haji. So I'm left with taking care of my boisterous son Aemir for approximately 2weeks.

Initially, I was worried since I really don't have much energy to chase him around in the 5th month of my pregnancy. But with a lot of organisation and help from my hubby and the cook, I manage to do what most mothers-without-help does. And I certainly enjoyed it...though it would have been more enjoyable if I wasn't carrying the extra "baggage"

Although enjoyable, I do hate mealtimes. Aemir has a bad habit of running around during meal times and it's very difficult for him to sit down unless his fav programme is on TV or there's no distraction around him! The maid usually chases him around and I can't be bothered to do that. Therefore out came the "disciplinarian" in me.....screaming and shouting and begging for him to sit and finish his meal!

Then 2 weeks turned into 3 weeks...thank God by then my mum arrived with some help!

20 Dec: Hari Raya Haji

Nothing much....we went to my sister-in-law's and stayed there the whole day to EAT EAT & EAT somemore!

24 Dec: Xmas Eve

We went to Singapore to fetch my uncles at Changi - who've just returned from performing the Hajj and later that evening my brother who's back for a 2-week break from Melbourne.

We also went down to Orchard Road to do some Christmas shopping....and show Aemir the Chirstmas decorations. It was lovely and thought of returning at night to see the lights lit up. In the end we bought another stroller - this time it's the Peg Prego Pliko P3 in RED! It was cheaper than in KL and a good bargain indeed.

Afterwards we headed to Beach Road to buy Sup Tulang and Mee Mamak Goreng.....for dinner.

And by the time we were heading for Orchard Road to see the Christmas ligths at night, Aemir was already fast asleep in the car and we detoured and headed back to JB instead.

25 Dec: Xmas

In honour of my darling cousin, Ana, we decided to have Christmas BBQ. My aunt prepared so much and we ate out hearts out. And the whole day was spent eating and eating except that my sister missed it all as she's not back from UK yet.

31 Dec: New Year's Eve

For once, my family is COMPLETE! Each of my siblings are back and I thought we could plan a Family New YEar's Eve Party...but to my surprise, my brothers and sister already have plans, and so does my parents. So it just the 3 of us again ..... hubby thought we could take a drive out to the highway to see the fireworks at The Curve. I was all game for it provided Aemir's still awake!

At the stroke of midnight - you find us 3 sleeping on the bed only to be awoken by the smell of Aemir's wet pampers around 1am. And both hubby and I decided to watch "I am Legend" on DVD while waiting for everyone to come back! Hahahhahahah

What a wonderful way to celebrate 2008 !!

Our Second Bump

2007-11-29T11:38:00.000+08:00

My bump is showing and we can no longer keep it a secret! This time it was no accident since we certainly planned for it. There was this yearn to become a mother to a second one and all I needed was a GREENLIGHT from my donor husband! Viola.....didn't take us long!

Alhamdulillah....the 1st trimester is over and I'm able to eat, drink, move, travel & do other things than sit infront of a toilet bowl, dustbin or any container that can hold the contents of my stomach! I can say it was the worst 2-3 months of my life. On the bright side, I lost so much weight so fast and even got below 70kg! I was happy about that. Of course it didn't last long and now I'm back to 70kg & above!! [sob sob sob]

We're now 4 months and my gynae says it looks like a GIRL but we can never be too sure! But of course we're praying hard for a GIRL - although if it's another Boy, we're still fine with it! At least Aemir has a sibling to play with.

2007-11-22T14:37:00.000+08:00

5 September 2007: Aemir's 2nd Birthday Party @ A&W

October 2007: Our Family Hari Raya Photos

I apologise for the delay. Hope you enjoy the pics as much as I do!

Unfortunately we couldn't take many photos as Aemir keeps hogging the camera. We definitely need to get him one "almost" real one to prevent our Ixus from getting spoiled.

To all Friends and Families all over the World :

A Very Belated Eid Mubarak!!

Friday Live Music

2007-09-07T17:49:00.000+08:00

Fridays are unbelievable here at the office....Somehow many things can happen on fridays and I do look forward to Fridays - not only because the weekend is here, but because the Live Band I can hear for Free whic performs at Westin's Poolside every Friday!!

By 5pm you can hear the band setting up their instruments and doing a sound-check for the evening's event! It's incredibly loud and you can definitely hear it clearly from my office room!

I have to saw that it can be quite annoying when you're trying to wrap-up the week's work - only to be bothered by the sound of 'loud' music coming from Westin.

However, when times are slow at the office and the only thing you keep your eye on is the clock on the computer....then hearing the sound of the band practising and making sound-checks can be quite comforting and relaxing at the same time.

Well...to all those reading this blog...Hope you have a great weekend and I shall return with more stories from the party!

T W O

2007-09-04T19:00:00.000+08:00

I'm sure "The Terrible Twos" sound familiar to most families and indeed it is the most challenging part of bringing up a toddler into this world. It is when they insist they are ALWAYS Correct and they are extremely adventurous (I guess for some!!) and willing to try every little thing they see you do!

Somehow it's no longer the "Terrible Twos" but the "Terrible One-and-a-halves"!!! yup yup...they are indeed getting smarter and smarter..

At this age, Aemir finds a camera fascinating....not only does he love posing for the camera, but he loves taking shots of himself with the camera! Hmmm...in the end it's the flash that gets in his eyes. But to no avail he's persistent and keeps on trying!!! Is that a sign of a vain-pot?

Then comes the switching on and off the switches! Even the safety gadgets are useless since he can take them off, try and find an electrical appliance or a handphone charger and "probe" the switch. It's highly dangerous and it's very difficult since we always have to keep a close eye on him.

And even if he knows he cannot do something, he shall attempt to do it....err...it has a sequence:

1. Go near the object of his fascination

2. Get your attention by calling "Mama" or "Papa"

3. Grin his cheeky grin while hand reaching out for the object

4. When you spot him, he retrieves his hand off the object

5. And when you're not looking again, he giggles and try his luck AGAIN!!

Just imagine....

That's only one of his long list of mischievous activities......I lost count!

But no matter how much he's testing our patience, at the end of the day, we still love him no matter how naughty he can be.

Do tell you stories and worries...Would love to hear from your experience of bringing up a Toddler!

Happy Birthday , Dear Aemir!

We love you

Mama & Papa

HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY MALAYSIA!!

2007-09-04T17:30:00.000+08:00

Indeed it was 50 years ago when we first heard the words "MERDEKA! MERDEKA! MERDEKA!"

Even though I wasn't around then, I can imagine how sentimental everyone felt at that time achieving and experiencing Independence for the first-time!!

In celebration of Malaysia's 50th Independence Day, organisers went full force to re-enact the account of that day 50 years ago at Dataran Merdeka. From what we observed on TV, the crowd was spectacular and everyone was anxiously waiting for the stroke of midnight (precisely 12.01am) the Union Jack was lowered and the Malaysian flag was hoisted by UMNO Youth Leader followed by the PM's shout of "MERDEKA!!" (7 times).....hehehhe....he's only human because I saw him keep count with his other hand.

I must congratulate the organisers and the Ministry of Culture and Heritage headed by YAB Dato Seri Rais Yatim - with his powerful and patriotic opening speech!

So what did we do on the eve of Merdeka? We were invited to the American Express Merdeka Event at Putrajaya International Convention Center (PICC). Honestly we were excited to attend the event since it's been a while since I last got glamourously dressed......(ok it's a girly thing!!)

When we arrived at PICC, we had to walk a bit to get to this balcony where we saw everyone helping themselves to food at the buffet table......BUT unfortunately, these organisers were so kelam-kabut that there were not enough seats for everyone!! Also taking into consideration the typical Malaysian attitude where "Heck! I got this seat first and I shall remain seated until the event is over!"

Yup!! With such a Malaysian attitude displayed by most of these American Express Card holders, I was ashamed to be associated with them....Nobody got off their A$$ and offerred their seats to us even though they've finished eating!

Such crappy attitude......and to think these people were of a mid-to-upper class and highly likely well educated, you would expect them to give up their seats for those standing and eating!!

So we all stood up and had our dinner - which wasn't THAT great to begin with!!

Another typical Malaysia attitude - everytime another tray of chicken wings came out of the kitchen, you can see these scroundrels rushing for a hand in it. And before you know it, the tray is EMPTY again! Yes...perhaps the chicken wings are the most delicious amongst the spread but must you rush?!!! So embarrassing....

Next, the fashion shows and the dance shows were almost no visible from the balcony we're at. I guess the organisers thought we'd wait around, mingle and chat while waiting for the stroke of Midnight and the fireworks to begin!

It was sheer luck that we all came to an understanding that the event was a total failure and decided to go home instead!! So at 1030pm we left PICC happily and headed home to play with our little Aemir!

On our way home, we thanked God that we made the right decision because on the opposite side of the road, heading towards Putrajaya, the traffic was horrendous!!! There was an unbelievable queue of cars on the highway and it's all because everyone wanted to experience the Nation's 50th Birthday!

Oh well, I was told we didn't miss much....and in fact, opposite our place, we can see the fireworks from afar and Aemir did in fact experience his first Merdeka (of which he understands). He was happily waving his mini Malaysian flag while grandpa was singing the patriotic songs to him (of which I don't think he enjoyed!!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MALAYSIA!

Funny Headline in The Star

2007-08-08T18:07:00.000+08:00

"Breastfeeding Wave in Putrajaya" - The Star, 8.8.07

'23 women breastfed for a FULL Minute to enter into the Guiness Book of World Records.....'

Doesn't reading this make you burst out laughing? Imagine....mothers breastfeeding their child for ONE FULL MINUTE can enter the Guiness Book of World Records. How about us mothers who, at one-sitting, breastfeeds their hungry baby for a full 30 mins or more?!!! Aren't we more entitled/deserving to be in the Guiness Book?

This shows how catchy headlines can attract readers and be ridiculous at the same time. When I first read the headline and the first 2 lines, I thought 23 mothers were in protest and breastfed their babies in public (just to make a point). I was relieved that this was only part of promoting breastfeeding to mothers and its beneficial effects to their children.

Now picturing this, if it should happen in public, I think there'll be dozens of men oogg-ling at the sight of breastfeeding women......you know - men, can get rather "excited" at the tiniest-itsy-bitsy thing!

Well, well.....Happy Global Breastfeeding Day to All the Mummies!!

Thanks Ma for breastfeeding me...kekekekekk

Back to Work

2007-08-06T11:00:00.000+08:00

Monday Morning Mad Rush --- The alarm was set for 6.40am but I only managed to get my butt outta bed at 7.15am, which leaves me 30mins to get ready!!!

The sudden rush of adrenaline after 5 mths off work was overwhelming. Back to the "morning routine" - get up, get showered, get dressed, put on make-up, jump into car with breakfast on-the-go....just to:

1. Beat the morning traffic
2. Get to work on time; and
3. Leave house before Aemir wakes up!

I almost didn't leave before Aemir got up because as I was fussing with my hair, he tossed and turned - almost getting up...and then I heard him call out for me....so I grabbed my bag and coffee and hurriedly left!

I reached the boundaries of KL just in time - before the long queue built up. After all that, I still arrived 20 mins LATE!!!

What a rush of emotions within a span on 1 1/2 hours from the moment I got up!!

The excitement of returning to work and the sadness of leaving my dear Aemir in the hands of the caretakers added on to the mixed emotions on a Monday Morning!

My whole day has progressed well so far....the "boss" is not in. I have time to acclimatise myself AGAIN at work.....and office hours is coming to an end soon!

However, my "Almost-Perfect" Day is never without any drama. My sister just called and informed me that Aemir fell off his toy car at the park and has a cut on his forehead and his palm. I'm worried that he needs to go to the doctor but according to my sis, he's ok and she's dressed the wound already!

Now hubby sounds more panic than me.....since it does involve the forehead. So I must leave now....to address this drama and see how bad it is!

Let's hope his forehead is as tough as his personality!

Mother's Day OFF

2007-05-15T14:33:00.000+08:00

To ALL Mothers - Happy Mother's Day (13 May)

Hope that all of you had a wonderful Mother's Day as did I.

I simply told Aim, "Yang, I'm on leave today" That meant, he had to take over every motherly duties for the day; including taking care of Aemir. And you should've seen how kalam kabut he went about chasing Aemir all over the shopping mall!!! Even at Gymboree, he did the running around at all the obstacle stations.....while I stood and watched my 2 boys playing with each other. It was a memorable sight until ....Aemir made a huge fuss during lunch!!!

Yess....we had Mother's Day lunch at La Bodega with my Mummy Dearest! Thank God it was tapas...and fast because Aemir was cranky half-way through lunch and torturing his grandpa ("atuk") to take him for a drive!

By the time lunch ended and we got in the car, 5 sec later, Aemir was fast asleep in his car seat!!

Next, we went around KL property hunting! Hmmm.....I was taken from Bangsar, to Bukit Damansara, to PJ for 2 hours....and by the time we arrived home, Aemir's up from his sleep!

In attempting to "torture" the hubby, I insisted we go Carrefour to get Aemir's formula since we're running out. So, despite being tired, we both went and finally called it a day!!!

It was a good and relaxing ONE DAY! Now back to all the Mother-ly duties.....hmmm...but do share "What does Motherhood mean to you?"

Stay tune for my version of the aforesaid topic.....Cheers Mothers!

Our Vacation: Phuket

2007-05-09T16:12:00.000+08:00

As promised, I will give you an account of your vacation in Phuket, Thailand.

We stayed at Holiday Inn Phuket, Busakorn Wing.

(on the right) The view of the Pool Bar at night.

Behind it is the reception area and on the right is the restaurant (breakfast area)

We decided to stay here because this hotel recently re-opened in November 2005. It has 2 wings: the Main Wing and the Busakorn Wing.

The Main Wing is the typical block buildings unlike the Busakorn where the entire wing reflect the Thai architecture; together with the animal masterpieces placed strategically around the pool, the lifts and the corridors.

Yes...if you study the Thai culture, their most respected animal is The Elephant. It is the most sacred of the animals in their Buddha practice. After that is the Monkeys. Hmmm...so you will find elephant statues sprouting water around the pool. Luckily they don't look too scary and we swam during the day (although I must say Aemir had a little fright when he saw them)

another pic of the Busakorn pool from another angle

villa pools - where you room door opens to the pool

(ideal for Honeymooners who want to "skinny-dip")

The Main Wing is just a walk away and it faces Patong Beach compared to Busakorn Wing. Another thing I love about Holiday Inn, it is stroller-friendly. There's no need to carry your stroller up and down staircases. Ramps are located strategically at main walk-ways for easy access between the Wings and around the Hotel.

Main Lobby @ Main Wing -
Relaxing, Breezy and Comfy Waiting Area because they have many, many, many comfy cushions on the sofas

Pool 2 at the Main Wing

Of course while walking around the Main Wing, we passed the highlight of every Child staying at Holiday Inn

Kid's Club

Many activities are organised each day children 5 above but you can definitely send kids there hassle-free and with ease of mind for the entire day without worrying if they get fed or not. I'm sure staff there will keep them entertained the entire day!

But unfortunately for us, Aemir is too small to be left there on his own while we go painting the town RED!!! hahahahahah...... Can you believe that we didn't even bring him to swim there because by then, our dear Aemir SAKIT!!!!! (demam & batuk)

So all we did was showed him there was a kiddie pool, a games room and activity room at the Hotel. Kesian..... [He didn't care pun!]

Then one of the nights, we had dinner at Sam's Steaks & Grill, a restaurant located at the Main Wing. We all pandai2 didn't study the restaurant properly and only thought about what to feed our tummies.....and the brochures only said : Attire - Smart Casual, No Shorts, No Slippers!

We all got dressed for dinner (like the Mat-Sallehs) and our main concern was Aemir's choice of attire - Smart Batek Shirt and BILLABONG SHORTS!!! He insisted that he put on that shorts or we won't go out for dinner. He refused to put on the white linen pants I prepared for him....siap gosok lagi!!! So off we went and as we entered, all eyes were on the stroller!!

OK NOBODY TOLD US IT IS FINE-DINING!!! And usually kids don't fine-dine at such restaurants!!!!

So we tried to keep Aemir quiet by taking him out for walks and walks until all of us finished eating and this GAY Couple beside us LEFT!!! You should have seen the stares they gave us the moment Aemir opened his mouth! Ishhh....Sorry dude....spoiled your romantic dinner...Heck who cares!!!

Anyway, even though I had a difficult time enjoying and savouring my Roasted Lamb on the Rack with Balsamic Jus (yummy, yummy) because I had to change "shift" with Aim to take care of feverish Aemir, I did finish it!

With all that drama on the table, there was drama outside as well. It was storming outside during our dinner that night and suddenly there was a "power cut" (black out)!!! Imagine that!!! But luckily the generators kicked in and soon we had some light.....became very very candlelighty!!!

And on the way back, Patong was flooded at the main roads. Hmmm...imagine that? And a few cars and tuk-tuks got stranded and tourists are everywhere hopping onto 1 tuk-tuk to another. Lucky for us, our rented car managed to breeze through the flood and also owing to the smart driving of my beloved husband. So the rest of the night we stayed in our rooms ....cannot shop because the shops are flooded as well!!! hahahahhahaha

Our Villa Room facing the pool

Been "VACATION-ING"

2007-05-07T14:08:00.000+08:00

Many of you may question why the LONG Absence from my Blogging. It's mainly because my computer at home just restricted me from accessing this website and since the last time I wrote.....many many things have happened.

So let me start by saying, "It Feels Good to Be Back!!"

March

I started my study leave then with the intention of starting my revision early but due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. being Mummy to Aemir, laziness, afternoon Sinetrons etc) my revision timetable went hay-wire. I guess I was being too ambitious and a part of me was scared to embark on another revision spree......Takut Duduk Exam Again!!!

April

April came and went by soooooo FAST! I didn't even realise it until I had to submit my Examination Registration Form and pay a wholesome RM1000 to re-sit the exams. They didn't even take into account that I was absent from the last exam due to medical reasons (I'm still BITCHING about that!!!) and counted that attempt as my 2nd attempt!!!

I was so annoyed with the system but that made me more determined to sit and PASS these exams for the LAST time!!! Insya Allah....

Thank God with my previous enthusiasm I'm already 3/4 through my 1st round of revision. I only have 1 more subject to complete and I'm finished with the whole 5 subjects. Of course I'll have to go through it the 2nd time, and 3rd and 4th.......hehehhehe Insya Allah if there's time!

My great ambitions came to a scrreching halt when 28 April came. We're off to Phuket!!!!

Been so excited about it since I made the bookings and the day has finally come. Packed many things since we're bringining Aemir, and I just can't wait to see Holiday Inn's new Busakorn Wing.

When we arrived at Phuket we hired a car and drove ourselves to Patong Beach. Although I've been there before, I don't remember Phuket to be what it is now. Well it was a refreshing sight.....but we were too tired and hungry to head to the beach upon arrival so we just visit JungCeylon (a new Shopping mall in Patong)!!

I like Patong - although messy with sign boards and electrical cables everywhere......the area is soooo touristy and friendly. Oh I've not gotten to the BEST part.....

Holiday Inn Busakorn is one of the most loveliest hotel since errmmmm......(ok it's been a while since I last stayed at a very luxurious resort/hotel) And it's also very kid-friendly as it's got it's own Kid's Club and facilities!!

The rooms are fantastic and the beds are cosy - even Aemir had a blast exploring every inch of the room!

(If I have time I shall paste some photos for you to view)

I do recommend families to stay at the Holiday Inn Phuket. It's convenient and even Room Service food is CHEAP!!!

(Stay tune for more Phuket Stories in my next Blog)

Overall it was a good holiday (with a little mishap)......

May

Yes I do realise that it's now May!!1 And exams are in July so counting the days excluding the weekends, I really do not have much time left to revise. Thus I am now panicking a little and secluding myself at hubby's office for some time-out from Aemir.

Yes you do realise how difficult it is to study at home with a kid running around and fussing at home? I know now that when it comes to 100% concentration, you can't get it at home. It's not just impossible is TRULY IMPOSSIBLE!!!

So let's see how "parking" myself at Aim's office would help me secure the concentration that I require to revise for my exams.

Wish me luck and pray for my success in these coming exams...........

Weekend Bulletin

2007-02-26T15:23:00.000+08:00

Friday Night

Hubby took us out for JAPANESE!!! It's been a while since I had Jap with hubby (since he totally hates Jap food!) and he was nice enough to take us out - after much pleading & whining!

Next, was deciding which Jap food outlet we should go to. Of course, if you ask me - I'd say "Equatorial Kampachi" ANYTIME!!! But that would be beyond our budget for this month. So we decided to try out "Sakae Sushi" @ Subang Parade!

This place is quite hi-tech...it has a monitor at each table where you can click on the mouse to order your food. Then they also have a Hot Water Tap for you to re-fill as much green tea as you want.

Seriously if you really want to be stingy or on a highly tight budget you order 1 Green Tea and refill until your drink doesn't turn GREEN anymore!!! hahahhaha

So I was content with the sushi selection on the conveyor belt (Just like Sushi King but tastier) while Hubby and my bro ordered their portions. I would have enjoyed and eaten more (especially since I was HUNGRY and CRAVING! >>Ladies you'd know that this is a very BAD combination!!) but I had to be the dutiful mother to Aemir and keep watch that he doesn't slide underneath the table (no baby chair!!sob sob) or his fingers don't get stuck at the conveyor belt or that he's not picking every plastic cover on each plate and poking at the contents, and he wasn't pouring soy sauce on himself, or playing with the wooden chopsticks and throwing them on the floor!!

AARRRGGHHH....that was exactly what I was struggling to prevent but FAILED!! AS you know kids are to quick with their hands.....so the tempura sauce spilled, the ice for Hubby's drink spilled, my tea cup almost broke and chopsticks were flying all over the table! At the same time I was trying to eat my sushi peacefully ...... but you can IMAGINE!!!

One hand holding Aemir (who's struggling to get free), and the other hand eating with chopsticks, mouth chewing, leg pressing against the diaper bag so that it won't fall, etc. ALL MY ABLE LIMBS WAS ON ALERT!!

In the end I gave up and waited for Hubby and bro to finish eating so SOMEONE can takeover from me. I think both were incredibly tired and gobbling away...while I watched (SIGH)!! To say the least I was finishing up the leftovers......POOR ME!!! :)

Then, my bro was kind enough to take the bill while Hubby & Aemir wandered off - either to MPH or ToysRUs!!

Saturday

It was a very very NORMAL day for us! Sat at home and struggled to solve the RUBIK'S CUBE!

Yeah you know that 6 sided cube with different colours on each side? I'm sure every household had them at 1 stage when it was THE CRAZE!!!! If you didn't own one, you'd have either held one or played with someone else's.....

This was all inspired by Will Smith's latest Movie "The Pursuit of HappyNess".

There we sat and tried and tried but when we were almost done, the next move will cause us to JUMBLE up the colours again!! It's quite frustrating.

Hubby said that when he was little he managed to solve the puzzle and so he was trying to prove his point. I recalled that I tried colouring the squares to look as though I did solve it or peeling the coloured stickers and placing them where I wanted it to be - AT THE CORRECT SIDE WITH THE CORRECT COLOURS!!!!

I gave up UNTIL I saw Hubby with a print out of the SoLution! Yeah....that's the wonders of the Internet. He printed out the methods of changing the cubes in order and so we tried AGAIN!!!!

The instructions weren't EASY.....very comprehensive....but we kept trying anyway!

At 5pm we visited the RYAN TWINS! So small still and Aemir was absolutely curious who these tiny beings were. But he also tried to play Big Brother to them - trying to give them their pacifiers when they cried and helped out Liz when she was changing their pampers!!

Sunday

Aemir had Gymboree!! He was very excited from the moment he got up and his favourite word is now "Pampers" (pronounced as : pam-pursh). I love listening to him say that word and everything is "Pampers" now - even if you ask him his name he'll reply "Pampers" (with a grin)!!!

So off we sped to Gymboree and that's the beginning of Mama's Exercise Session. It's very tiring running after him, singing and then encouraging him to do all the tasks, then carrying him and flinging him about. Thank God this time Papa was around!!!

It was Hubby's first time attending Gymboree and he was a bit BLUR!!! But soon came in sync with the programme! HE WAS SWEATING!!!

Aemir kept climbing here and there and even attempted sliding down HEAD FIRST!! Hmmm....a bit too brave!!! But all in all he always enjoyed 'Parachute Time' and "Bubble Time"!!! I love it too because I get to sit down!

By the time PLaytime was over, we were all knackered and THIRSTY!!! Had a drink and Starbucks and went back!

Aemir was fast asleep when we arrived home......and both hubby and I continued with our Rubik's. When Aemir got up at 3.30pm, had his Late Lunch and thereafter we went to TESCO Shah Alam. IT WAS CROWDED!!!!

We took whatever we wanted, paid and left!!

On the way back we detoured to the carwash. This would be Aemir's first time in the car while it was being SNOW WASHED!!! IT was a great experience for him and you can tell that he was totally amazed from the expression on his face! Everytime the guy sprayed water on the window, Aemir will squint his eyes - as though the water hit him!!! hahahhaha...

After dinner, we sat down to solve our Rubik's again and Hubby finally solved it (2nd time round)! So I got some tutorials from him and tried doing it myself. It took me about 2hrs to solve it and I WAS HAPPY!!!

By then the Carling Cup Final was on....Arsenal v Chelsea......Results speak for itself on espnstar.com!!

That was our weekend....very fulfilling one and I wish there were more of such meaningful and useful weekends to come!!!

QUALITY TIME IS VERY IMPORTANT WITHIN FAMILY

SPEND TIME WITH LOVED ONES EVERY TIME YOU CAN!!!

Legalising FireWorks

2007-02-23T16:13:00.000+08:00

For the benefit of those who had no time to read yesterday's papers, the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Association (FOMCA) pleads to the Government to legalise fireworks and fire crackers only during the festive periods!

His reason being:- it's a mockery of the legislation because there is no such enforcement in place!

I personally feel that this is an attempt to increase the death tolls during the festive periods. Already, the Police are doing the best to catch roadusers that are breaking the laws with Ops Sikap, in an attempt to reduce the number of road accidents during the festive periods. Now one fella decides to legalise burning of firecrackers.....might as well legalise drunk-driving during the festive periods too!

Indeed firecrackers are symbolic during festive seasons and to celebrate a joyful year ahead and it creates a better festive mood, especially during Chinese New Year. But has this fella thought about the consequences of burning fireworks and firecrackers?

Aren't the reports about children losing their fingers and toes and scarring their faces, and even houses flaring up in flames as a result of irresponsible use of fireworks, a deterrent to legalise such activities?

Honestly, what is he thinking? Even labels to warn adults/parents of responsible burning of these fireworks are not enough. Sometimes even through no fault of the parents/users of fireworks, the item itself can self-explode (due to unforeseen circumstances). In a word - Fireworks are HAZARDOUS!!!

This should be thought of thoroughly before allow Legalisation of Fireworks!! The Government must have had a very good reason for the ban of Fireworks (PUBLIC SAFETY!!!)

Introducing "The LOVE Bear"

2007-02-14T12:27:00.000+08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

If you haven't noticed, this whole month has been about "Love" and "Prosperity" - all in conjunction with Chinese New Year (which is around the corner)!

But TODAY, it is of course, due to crude over-commercialisation of 14th February, is indeed Valentine's Day! I dare say that many people have been brain-washed by the Valentine's Day commercials that they think that they must go out for romantic dinners & romantic getaways, be showered with hundreds of red roses, receive boxes of chocolates, have champagne/wine with strawberries dipped in chocolate (I wonder who'll have THAT today.....) etc...just to show their love and affection for their partners/spouse!!!

Every since I got married, I can fully vouch that our lives, love and commitment are no longer measured by any of the above. For those hopeless romantics (let's not deny there aren't any out there) who still thinks that receiving 100 red roses from your partner on this ONE DAY means he will love, honour and cherish you through bad hair days, mood swings, stretchmarks, babies, toddler tantrums, horrendous traffic, pimples, sagging boobs and demanding careers is sadly mistaken!!

Honestly, don't you think that it would be a pretty sad state of affairs if we only took ONE day out of 365 days in a year to declare our love and commitment?!! So what happened to the rest of 364 days? Just be content with what you have and any declaration of love need not happen because you think you partner can read your mind? I'm afraid NOT!!!

In reality, we ALWAYS want some declaration of love and gratitude for every act we perform - be it - cooking for your partner, filling up petrol, doing the laundry, putting your child to sleep, doing the household chores, taking out the garbage......It doesn't matter what you do, I bet you need some encouragement from your partner for doing such a thing. A "Thank You so Much, Darling" or "That's very kind of you!" or "Oh how wonderful..." would be enough as a sign of love and gratitude from your partner, wouldn't it?

But, unfortunately, we sometimes FORGET that people, our loved ones, need such exclaimations once in a while for them to feel that they have a purpose on Earth! And that what they do have not been taken for granted and all that they have done have been appreciated by all receivers. Certainly, the issue of sincere and insincere exclaimations ought to be considered. Let's save that for another BLOG!

Today We Celebrate Our Love.......(rings in my ears)

This morning I was humming to the tunes of "Now and Forever", "I Will Always Love You", "End of the Road", "Saving all My Love for You", "Because I Love You"........

and to be Greeted by Tatty Teddy on my Desktop!

Tatty Bear from the "Me to You" Collection has always been about LOVE. I've always thought this cute grey-coloured and adorable-looking bear has all the expression, mood, emotion and pose for every occassion. And its figurines, cards and products are almost always very personal......Too bad I hardly find Tatty Teddies around Malaysia (except maybe Hallmark) unlike in UK where every Carlton Cards or H.M. Samuel Shops would have a section dedicated for this "Love Bear".

So for those thinking of expressing their declaration of Love to their partners/spouse, do so with a Tatty Teddy!

Click on http://www.tatty-teddy.net/index.php to find more Me To You products.

Have a Wonderful Valentine's Day!!

To my Dear Hubby,

See You Tonight!!

House-Husbands

2007-02-07T16:01:00.000+08:00

In Today's conversation, we sat and had a women's forum on House Husbands. Do you mind that your Husband stays at home minding the household chores and the kids? Do you think that in a traditional Muslim home with traditional Muslim values this is achieveable?

Does this picture seem wrong to you?

How about this?

And this??

Coming from a family with everything TRADITIONAL, I certainly would find it strange if my husband were to be seen doing the chores that I (as a wife) should be doing.

Certainly, we do sit down and complain about our husbands not lending a helping hand in the kitchen, or with the household chores, or changing the nappies, or minding the kids; but when they start controlling everything that we're so used to doing, wouldn't you feel out of place?

I definitely wouldn't mind my husband helping out at home with the chores....ONCE IN A WHILE and I certainly would be THE HAPPIEST WOMAN if he decides to do EVERYTHING! BUT I wouldn't feel the same way after 1 month of that happening. To me, it just seems wrong!

Stereotypically, the MAN is THE PROVIDER of the Family and the WOMAN is HOUSE MANAGER for the entire part of the marriage. Now women have gone out into the corporate world and have decided to be at par with the men. Most women would think that: Why can't I do what the Man can do?

Yes. I am one of them. Although I do complain and I'd love to taste some GENDER EQUALITY in my life, but in reality, this can NEVER HAPPEN! WHY?

Well, women are born with maternal instincts for a reason. Women are made to have own assets as huge as mountain and to have wombs to hold a 3-4kg foetus and to have genitals which look like 2 pieces of squashed bun put together (just use your imagination) - all these for a reason. And for that same reason, men were born with paternal instincts (if they have any), to have hairy chests and legs (err....perhaps this may apply to some women), to have facial hair as thick as the Amazon forest, and genitals the shape of pisang emas!

God made us DIFFERENT and we have different roles to play in our lives as well!

You certainly cannot expect your Man to work during the day and come back to do the household chores (cook, clean, iron and take care of the kids). Although women have a knack for doing all these chores after work, Men (sad to say) just do not have that capability!! They may in fact "Work Smart" in the corporate world but Women (proud to say) are the Champions at dividing their roles and responsibilities both at work and at home! Thus, wouldn't it suffice to say that Women should get better privileges and benefits from their employees for being excellent at their Jobs!!

Anyway, back to the issue - expecting your Man to do the household chores after work is really asking for too much from the fella. It's enough if both of you do the chores together but you cannot expect him to be doing it everyday - especially if only the husband works!

You'd be amazed at how many women these days who are stay-at-home wives/mothers and they do NOTHING except take care of themselves (i.e. go for spas, facials, salons, manicures and pedis). I call them Tai-Tais!!

Tai-Tais are women of leisure. They spend on their husband's hard-earned cash and all day long they'll spend their time beautifying themselves, having hi-teas with their friends, shopping, or perhaps just sitting at home and gossiping with their friends (over tea or on the phone)! But usually these ladies are about 40 and above (where their husbands are CEOs of multinationals and millionaires or billionaires already). However, these days we have the Wannabe Tai-Tais!!! These are the 20 somethings wannabes.....who go around spending, spending, spending without a care in this world!

So wat happens to the household chores and the kids? Errrmmmm....MAIDS!!! Yes they are God's (being their husbands) Gift to these Tai-Tais!! Some demand for Maids so that they can go through their daily routines without having to care about cooking, cleaning, ironing and (to a certain extent) the kids! They'll DIE without the Maid!

Who'll do the dishes? Who'll do the cooking, the ironing, the cleaning? And for those extremists, who's changing the diapers?

AAARRRGGGHHH.... Just frustrates me that these women gets away with ordering their husbands to PROVIDE PROVIDE PROVIDE! And what do they give their husbands in return? For most, they'll devote their attention to the husband when he's around (attending to his EVERY NEEDS)...but for some, this is their answer:

"I'm tired. All day I've been stuck at home - Take me out!"

"I've already given you kids"

"I want more...I want this and that ..."

(amongst the ones I can think of)

Just notice how ungrateful these women can be. Don't they understand that they too have a role to play while the husbands at work?

Oh well....All I can say is that husbands with such wives should voice out their concerns. Do not be afraid to say "No" to your wives (I can THAT ALL THE TIME!!hehehhe...) Lay all your problems on the table, give her the full picture of how hard it is to PROVIDE these days....Not everything is about HER!

Hmmm..........have I gone on a diversion and swayed away from the TOPIC?

Home Alone

2007-02-02T12:32:00.000+08:00

Day by day I'm beginning to realise that Aemir's getting naughtier and more mischeivious and NOBODY CAN CONTROL HIM!!!!

I know what you're going to say - "We pamper him too much" - Perhaps we're partly to blame for his attitude at the moment but I'd rather blame it on Latch-Key Syndrome.

I do envy parents (mothers) who do not have to work and become a stay-at-home mother to their children. At least they get to spend more quality time with their kids and monitor the kid's progress. They also get to instil some discipline at home, teaching them right from wrong, and to listen to instructions (orders). Mothering is indeed a full-time job for some mothers and I do wish I get to spend more time with Aemir.

At the moment, instilling some discipline at home is tough. We're only home at nights and perhaps 2 hours from the time he wakes up in the morning (or even less). So by the time we return from work, around 7pm, he starts his fussing, crying and tantrums - basically seeking our FULL attention (until his Bedtime)!

To say NO and scold him is kinda UNFAIR. The child wants some quality time and perhaps wants to show-off his new tricks to his parents, but all they can do is sit watch news, read papers and/or sleep. Sometimes all our energy have been used up on work and there's just not enough to go around entertaining him (which means running after him, carry him (12kg now!!), teasing him, playing with him).

I don't blame him for throwing tantrums when we don't give him attention. He's been stuck at home the whole day with 2 maids (whom he sees EVERYDAY - perhaps he's gotten TIRED of looking at them), no where to go except downstairs (to the playground or around the park - if the weather permits), limited space in the condo for him to explore and this goes on 5 days in a week!

If I was him, I'd be throwing tantrums as well!

But you'd be amazed at what sort of tricks he can show you every day. Once it was somersaulting from the back of our Japanese chair, head first and rolling up front. Next it was switching on and off the computer, the TV and the light switch. Another day it will be "I'm a Doctor" Day, he'll put on his stethescope and check everyone's heartbeat or come out with a cotton bud in his hand to put ointment on your toe (bec he's got a cut on his and that's what we do to him), or he'll take a torch-light and check your ears (just like his doctor would).

Or he'll run around the dining table, hoping you'll notice him and play Catch with him!

It's saddening to see him cry and struggle when you leave for work and when you return home, he'll run to you and give you a BIG BIG HUG, salam and kiss! Awww....

These are the times when I wish I'm a stay-at-home Mother!

Marriage Counsellor

2007-01-31T14:17:00.000+08:00

Have you ever been a victim of cheating spouse?
Have you ever cheated on your spouse?
Have you ever counselled someone who's cheated their spouse?
Have you ever counselled someone who's been cheated by their spouse?
Have you ever counselled someone who's cheating on their spouse?
Have you ever been pursuaded to cheat on your spouse?
Has someone ever urged you to cheat on your spouse?
Have you ever pursuaded or urged someone to cheat on their spouse?

As Allah s.a.w is my witness, I have never done any of the above.
I've only heard stories/ real experiences from a third party of the Cheating/Cheated Spouses. This is a Story of "What if" that should happen to me:

SCENE 1: The Victim
If I were to find out that my spouse was cheating on me with someone woman, the first thing I'd do is to confront him with the situation. Before that I shall do my own personal investigation about "the other woman" - who, where she lives, what she does, how they met, when it started.

With that information I can cross-check on whether my spouse is telling the truth during the confrontation. I'd like to find out the reason behind this sudden change of heart. Doesn't he care about the family anymore? Doesn't he love me anymore? Doesn't he realise the consequences of his actions?

Throughout all this, I hope that both parties can sit down and talk about it like humans. Let's hope there weren't be too much shouting and name-calling.

Next, it's decision time.
1. For the Cheater to leave his current family, get better and return to his family after that; or
2. Seek marriage counsellors/Attend counselling sessions.

If the Cheater choose "the other woman" than me,
1. either give permission to marry 2nd wife and keep me as the 1st; or
2. divorce.

I suppose the decision-time is the hardest especially when there are children involved. It's hardest for them than it is for the adults. In the first place, the spouse didn't think about such consequences faced by the children before he acted/decided to cheat on his wife. If it's hurting the wife, it's hurting the children even more.

Scene 2: The Cheater
Usually when one cheats on their spouse, they tend to be very selfish and only think narrowly - their own satisfaction (if it's purely sexual), their well-being and instant happiness (if "the other man" provides better) etc.

They forget whom their cheating on - not only the husband, but also the children. They would have neglected their family and not playing their role as a wife and/or mother. That's why we hardly ever hear about wives cheating on their husbands.....just because women tend to realise the consequences of their actions first before pursuing another relationship. When men cheats, it's usually purely sexual and physical.

But in this case, if I were The Cheater. I'll try not to get caught! Hiding numbers and msgs in the handphones are just too common. I'll hide it in my head! "The other man" must have the following qualities:
1. Handsome, Kind, Caring, Sexy
2. Graduate, Career Man, Loves Children
3. Tolerant, Faithful, Happy-go-lucky
4. Diligent, Street-wise, Patient, Honest, Smart
5. Earns a handsome salary (to provide for my lavish lifestyle)
6. Good religious background
7. Listens to me (most of the time)
8. Good enterprenuerial skills (good soft and hard skills)
(oppss....that all sounds like my husband! Why should I cheat then?)

With "the other man" I must have some 'chemistry' with him and the relationship will not only be sexual or physical. He must have the intellectual capacity for me to interact with him. I can't possibly go out with a "moron", then I'll be one if that happens!

Scene 3: The Counsellor
Counselling "The Cheater":
First, you should never cheat on the spouse!
Find out reasons why that person needed to cheat on their spouse.

In this case, would any reason be valid? Perhaps if the husband was not providing financially, emotionally, physically for the wife, then perhaps it might be a good reason to find another man who can. But in the first place, why marry that 'loser'?

Advice The Cheater to stop seeing or having any contact with "the other man/woman". Reconcile matters with the spouse. Seek counselling if they're encountering problems at home. If The Cheater still loves the spouse, then The Cheater should be willing to do this.

Don't confess to cheating yet. Let the marriage counsellors do their job. Otherwise, more problems will crop up.

Counselling "The Victim":
This is a little bit tricky.
If The Victim has not done his/her personal investigation on "the other man/woman", you must do it for them. If you have proof that a particular number has been called many times from The Cheater's phone, then call that number. Disguise yourself to find out about the person on the other line. This should instill some fear in "the other man/woman" and it's sure indication that someone has found out about the affair!

If the Victim has done his/her homework, then get then to confront and talk about the situation together. Yelling, screaming and throwing things is not necessary - at the expense of the children (if any). Try to do it when the children are not around (if you still feel the need to scream and shout) - just be considerate when you live in flats/condominiums .....walls can be thin!

Next get them to visit a marriage counsellor.
Your job should stop there.

If they decide the marriage is over, then get them a good divorce lawyer! (hahahhah....)

Counselling "The Cheating":
Hmmm.....if you're "the other man/woman" and you find out the person you're with is already married, you can play a role and advice them to stop this vice.

If they have a sob story - i.e. their husband/wife is not treating them right, doesn't love them anymore, can't talk to them - they're most probably LYING!
Do your own homework before pursuing a relationship with this person. Find out who they are, what they do etc...don't just believer everything that comes out of their mouths.

Do you want to be a Home-Wrecker?
No matter how rich that Cheater is and how well he/she treats you and how tempting the 'gifts', sex, attraction etc...may be....it's just WRONG to ruin someone else's life at the expense of your happiness. Most likely you will find another person like that but UNMARRIED!

Scene 4: "The Pursuasee" (one who's been pursuaded)
You call that person you pursuaded you to cheat YOUR FRIEND?

No true friend would come up to you and ask you: "Haven't you ever thought of cheating on your spouse?"

Even if that friend is a Cheater, he should never pursuade you to do the same. As a good friend, he should advice you NOT to cheat and instead work out the problems you have in your marriage before thinking of cheating.
Lay out all the CONS of Cheating....Sorry but there's nothing "PRO" about cheating.

In the first place, why are you so naive to believe that Cheating is OK? Think about it....how many people will get hurt as a result of your selfish actions. Do you really want to hurt the ones you love?

Even if you've LOVED (in the past tense) that person before, I'm sure a good reasonable person would not intentionally hurt that person you've loved before.

Think before you Act!

Scene 5: "The Pursuader"
Why do you have to get other people involved in your vice?
Do you think that everyone needs to Cheat on their spouse?
Do you think you're setting a good precedent/example for others to follow?

If you Cheat, do it at your own time. Brag about it all you want with your friends but NEVER pursuade them to do the same. That's just wrong!!

Don't sway them with the wrong reasons! They might have had a good family relationship going but for your pursuasiveness to cheat on their spouse.

If you don't Cheat but just love to sway them into it....ARE U SICK? I think you need counselling. Do you like seeing your friends suffer in relationship problems while you laugh behind the scene? I definitely think you're SICK to even think about doing that - no matter what your reasons are - e.g. for revenge - ruining people's lives is VERY WRONG!

There are other ways to "get back" at people.....(but of course no way is the correct way!)

Ladies & Gentlemen,

Please do not Cheat or be pursuaded to Cheat on your spouse!
Think carefully before doing so.
Think of all the people you're going to hurt in the process.

Think think think...God gave you BRAINS for a REASON!

SEEK HELP if you fall in any of the categories (Professional Help is ADviced!

888888888888888888

LOVE YOUR SPOUSE

REKINDLE THE 'OLD' FEELINGS

TAKE TIME OFF TO BE WITH LOVED ONES

LOVE YOUR CHILDREN

SAVE YOUR MARRIAGE

**Disclaimer: All advice is of personal opinion only and should not be followed strictly. I have not experienced any of the above. You should seek professional counselling or professional medical help if symptoms persist.

Ladies, How often do you change?

2007-01-25T16:21:00.000+08:00

Greetings all.....I've decided to take a few minutes to pen down my thoughts and "get back to writing" [I quote]! Time flies and it's already 25 days into the New Year. I do hope that 2007 has been kind to you as it has been to me (so far)!! I recently read my Chinese Horoscope and it said that 2007 will bring me Wealth (hmmm...I wonder how much?) but Health-wise, I have to watch out for unexpected bugs. Surprisingly enough, I am in the midst of recovering from an asthma attack, cough, and cold....very very bad combination! So I suppose these Astrology readings can be quite true - or just mere coincidence!!

Enough said.....I know the Title of this Blog can strike as "Gruesome" but Fear not...I'm not touching on that aspect (Oh you 'dirty' scoundrels!! Is that all u can think of?!!)

Ladies, How Often Do You Change YOUR HANDBAG?!

It is a well-known fact that Ladies (in general) can't LIVE WITHOUT A HANDBAG. And their collection grows every week, month or even day (depending on your level of shopaholic-ness and $$$). Handbags come in various shapes, sizes, designs, and functions. So I find it a bit strange if a lady comes up to me and says she only need ONE HANDBAG!

That's ridiculous....if you follow the etiquette and dress-code rules strictly, you will find that you need particular bag for every occassion. You can't go to the market with an evening bag, nor can you attend a formal function with a casual tote bag.

That's why there's brands like COACH,BOTTEGGA VENETTA, TOD's, CHANEL, GUCCI, FENDI, MIU MIU, PRADA, MARC JACOBS, DIOR, BRAUN BUFFEL ( just name it...there's plenty)...even the likes of STUART WIEZTMAN and FERRAGAMO. Thanks to them we have a selection of handbag designs, shapes and sizes for EVERY FUNCTION!

Having said that even SAMSONITE and DELSEY are improving their designs to cater for different tastes and needs. You'd be surprise how functional and cute these bags can be; especially their Make-up Bags!

Anyway, back to my question...I'm sure with many kinds of bags to suit different occassions one would have to change their handbag ever so often, BUT HOW OFTEN DO YOU CHANGE YOUR BAG?

Have you gone through ONLY ONE BAG throughout your daily routine for ONE WEEK, ONE MONTH?

I've only just discovered today that I've been using my Miu Miu bag for more than 3 weeks and it has done me justice EXCEPT that I can hardly find my things with ease anymore.

Are you in a habit of dumping many things in your bag and upon carrying it, it feel like a "gold sack" (hahahah that's what you'd like to think!)

I certainly am one of those people. It starts out with barely nothing but the usual - 1 wallet, 1 handphone, 1 coin purse (depending on the wallet) and 1 packet of tissue (always). Day by day there'll be a bunch of receipts from my purchases, my diary, my namecard holder, my lipstick/lipgloss, my MAC, my sanitary pad, my inhaler, my camera, my discount vouchers, sweet wrappers, biscuit crumbs from my son's Baby Bites, wet wipes.....(PHEW!!!)

So you can imagine my handbag literally 'growing' from all "My Collections"!!!

Through my busy schedule I just can't find time to clean up the mess...It's been Pick-up-N-Go routine for 3 weeks and I think it's about time I sort out what I need from my handbag before I find a RAT in it!!! YIKES!!!

This is also because I haven't been invited to any Formal Function and there has been no need to change my bag. My Miu Miu also suits daily/casual/office attire so I haven't been breaking any of the dress-code rules. I've taken it to the market, the clinic, the office, the mall etc....

But now I think it's TIME TO CHANGE!!

Let me know if you've experienced this and are you in a habit of changing bags often? Do share your stories with me.

p/s: my husband exaggerates that I've so many bags and change it so often and now we have to find MORE SPACE to STORE my bags! hmmmmm.......He hasn't seen the Contents of my Miu Miu!

Oink Oink 2007

2007-01-24T14:54:00.000+08:00

HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Thanks for those who highlighted the fact that I haven't been blogging in a while!!

I didn't realise it has been THAT long

and....I haven't even submitted an entry for 2007!!

Shame on me (i know I know)

My most humble apologies....I've just been incredibly busy but I promise that I shall write longer and update you with all the NEWS, GOSSIPS, and HAPPENINGS on MY Side of the World!!!

STAY TUNED FOR MORE STORIES

COMING SOON

Dark Clouds Begone

2006-12-22T15:27:00.000+08:00

If you've been following my blog, you would know of a 'particular' person whom I have a personal grudge against - not because she's done anything to me, but because her actions and attitudes towards others(i.e. belittling her subordinates, status conscious etc.) have an impending effect on me that I just cannot accept such foul attitude from a person!

Ever since she joined us, there's been a "dark cloud" hanging over us (pardon me for the obvious innuendo). The working environment has been rather uptight, stressful, hypocritical, politically-divided etc. In short, not a very friendly place when you walk in - especially when you walk in on her 'screaming' at her staff!

Giving her the benefit of the doubt, as a friend, she can be a nice, loyal and good friend. As a colleague, she is intolerable. She's just not a Team Player - and she can never be one. She always wants to RULE and does not give anyone else the opportunity to SHINE!!! Anyone under her has to listen to her every needs and worries...and has to report directly to her and will be at fault if anything goes wrong (she won't claim liability for anything even though it might be her fault!)

From my perspective, I could never find a good-side to her no matter how hard I looked. Everything she did or said comes out WRONG and critical of anyone she hates! When she hates a person, she tries and infect others to do the same. Such vengence she has for that person can be so great that the entire firm is affected. How can one person have such a dual character and personality (I dunno)?!!! I do know that wherever she goes, whatever she does tak diberkati.

It's been 2 days since she left and you can tell the office mood has changed dramatically! Her staff are smiling and they don't look so stressed anymore. It is more 'peaceful' without her shouting her lungs out. No more sneaking around to chat with other staff....etc..

I do hope that her absence will have a tremendous effect on the firm and everyone will work better in the coming New Year and our shortcomings will be lesser.

--She has LEFT the Building--

reactions

2006-12-22T14:56:00.000+08:00

I think I've been getting this a lot lately! Hmmm...have you ever received a call from an unknown number or a number that you've not installed in your handphone.....and when you pick up it is someone you never thought you'd hear from again?!!!

I received such a call today. Like any other annonymous calls this one caught me by surprise. Although I have a very good memory of people I've come across in my life, I pretended as though I didn't have a clue who this person was. So I probed and asked further until her identity was revealed.

This was a girl whom I went for religious classes with. Our houses used to be infront of each other and we went to each others' houses after school to play almost every day. We lost touch the moment I started boarding school. I never heard from her or heard of her until a few years back....

I thought I saw her go into OE (a jewellery shop) but I wasn't too sure until her friend called out her name. She looks the same, as skinny as ever (how I hate that)except that she's grown somewhat more beautiful and well-groomed than I remembered her. And sexy too!! Of course I didn't bother introducing myself then as I heavily pregnant and looking somewhat disshevelled.

Now she's got my number and finally decided to call on me to catch up. Few years back there were rumours that she was dating the prince....and I wasn't too sure if they got married or not, but I got confirmation from my sources that they did and the princess wasn't too happy about it!!!

So my questions to her in our short conversation was kind of weird:

I asked, "So are you married? Any kids?"

As though I was 'fishing' for information that I didn't already know. In fact I am a doo-doo in a sense because I don't bother intruding into other peoples' affairs. It's their perogative of whatever they choose to do. I shall not interfere!

So we decided to meet up end of the week since I'll be back in JB. I bet she looks ever-so gorgeous and different compared to me....but I do want to know the truth of whether she did end up marrying him or not!

===> just wanted to hear from the horses mouth!!

Although being myself, I am quite suspicious when someone calls me up out of the blue intending to meet up. I always fear that they want a favour out of me or they need some assistance in something. To me, it can NEVER be a casual meeting up or catching up with friends (with the exception of a few of my dearest and closest friends!!!)

So, we'll see how things go and I shall definitely update you!

---CHEERIOS---

disrespect

2006-12-14T15:00:00.000+08:00

Once upon a time I had a profound respect and admiration for a particular "MENTOR" (let's call this person "M"). For obvious reasons, he had stature and wherever he goes people will look up to him. Nobody dares says "No". Nobody dares question his decisions - whether it was correct, wrong or not the very best decision he's made. In short, people were afraid of him. And to to lose respect for M is considered sinful because not only was he wise, most of the time he is correct!

It was glaringly obvious that my respect for M was tremendous. Everything he asked me to do I did. Everything I did as instructions/advise from him, has been for my own benefit and I did them out of love and respect for him. Through that I have succeeded till today. I wouldn't dare question him nor correct his decisions because they are usually good decisions and ever since I could remember he has been my No.1 MENTOR...UNTIL....I found his mentoring skills a bit too harsh and forceful.

The whole idea of mentoring is to "guide" the mentee to make good decisions and abide by good examples set by the mentor. It is a relationship that should have mutual respect for each other (be it the mentee respecting the mentor or vice versa). Thus, at the end of the day the mentee himself should decide on his own whether to embark on that job or not. So mentoring should be about guiding and not forcing a decision on the mentee nor is it about deciding for the mentee!!

In this case, I find that M was being selfish because he took 2 mentees overseas out of pretence that the whole purpose of their trip was to have meetings with clients and secure jobs in that country. Neither of the mentees thought that they would be gone for more than 2 weeks because after all, families, friends and loved ones were left behind just for M.

M didn't think about the needs of his mentees or those of his dependants before deciding to overstay his business visit. Out of the blue, M disclosed to his mentees that their trip will be extended for another month!

Although frustrated and surprised by M's decision, the 2 menteess didn't dare question him nor did they rebel. They kept silent but behind M's back, they quietly poured out their anger to each other and (some) to their dependants. Neither of them could voice out their displeasure and bail out on M (also because M had their air tickets with him).

I find this very disconcerting and a very selfish act on M's part. Mentees may have had plans with loved ones for the coming New Year, Birthday, or Chirstmas but none of these mattered to M.

When they tried to discuss this with M, M gave an ultimatum they can't refuse. This was very unfair since the mentees too have their own careers, job and life to handle. One of the mentees faced a problem of unhappy clients and unpaid job if he follows M's decision. The other will face a problem with his loved ones for 'abandoning' them in their time of need.

It didn't occur to M that many many people are relying on his mentees' return and mentees will face hardships in every aspect of their lives - just to please M.

Having said that, M's reasons for extending their stay is very valid and such an opportunity will may never crop-up again. It's a matter of devotion to God Almighty if they stay and embark on a pilgrimage they'll never forget.

I, for one, do not object to embark on that pilgrimage but the timing is just not proper. The arrangements, the preparations, the circumstances and priorities just do not suit the occassion.

So do you think these mentees will ever speak up?

Do you think they'll discuss this inside out?

Do you think they'll keep silent or protest?

I suppose I'm in no position to decide for them but I still do not agree to M's method of mentoring!

Lucky Lucky Lucky

2006-12-08T14:23:00.000+08:00

Lunch Today was the odd wandering around town routine instead of stuffing my face with FOOD FOOD FOOD!!!

I didn't know what to have for lunch so I went to the bakery next door to grab a sandwich and wandered off to F.O.S!!! I thought I'd get Aemir more track pants for his park outings (to prevent him from grazing his knees again!) and at the same time I found myself 2 simple Tees to wear for my weekends at home.

I was happily scouting around the store...even decided to get my dear niece a nice frilly top and a matching frilly skirt for her birthday.

As I was queuing at the cashier, a tourist infront of me was paying for his purchase and his total bill entitled him 3 flasks. He immediately refused saying that "I have plenty of them at home. No thank you."

The cashier looked at him in awe....I just smiled. Then he turned to me and said " Unless you want them"

I hesitated for a while but looking at the shiny flasks before me I thought "WHY NOT!!!" So I thanked him profusely and shyly said " Ok I'll take one!"

The cashier looked at me in awe (pulak)..."Why don't you take all 3?" (in Bahasa)."Erm...bolehlah"

Actually I didn't want to seem greedy or show that I'm such an opportunist. But that is such a great opportunity and I'd be silly to turn down something like that!

So today, I feel like I'm the luckiest person in the world to be queuing infront of that tall blonde-haired guy. All I could think of was, "Thank you thank you thank you...."

It's such a rare incident and I happily walked out with 3 flasks (black, orange and red)

But I'm just as generous as that guy that I gave 2 away to the staff. Hmmmm....actually why did I open my big mouth?! (come to think of it...)

Well I did it out of sincerity and hopefully my sincerity will be paid off one day. May the flasks be taken care and appreciated by their new owners......

So I'm now a new owner of a black F.O.S flask!!

NOW... That got me thinking - Would a local/Malaysian do something similar?

Would a local/Malaysian refuse the free gifts?

I think NOT! I do not blame our locals for acting that way because it is instilled in us to accept whatever that comes along our way. I, certainly, am not ashamed to say that I would not have declined the 3 flasks even though I have 3 more at home - Just because I can always present it as a gift to someone or I can give it to my nieces/nephews for them to bring to school. In fact, before I accepted the flasks I didn't think I needed it but when offered I immediately thought that I may need it in the future - perhaps for my own use or for my son.

Would you call that being greedy or making use of a rare opportunity?

Whatever it is, I came out of F.O.S benefiting from my own purchases because my purchase certainly didn't entitle me to even one meezly flask!!!

Back to my question, Why can't Malaysians be not so kiasu? Why do we think we need everything in the world when we actually have enough?

Perhaps that should be a New Year's Resolution for 2007 - DO NOT BE SOOOOOO KIASU!!

This resolution should definitely applies to me because I'm a self-proclaimed "treasure-keeper" (for lack of a better word; which simply means I LOVE keeping unnecessary JUNK!!!) Truly I find that somethings (in my case, usually ALL THINGS) are worth keeping for memories-sake. I feel that to give it up,to part with it would cause me to lose that part of the memory that I wish to remember forever.

But of course, everyone knows truly well that one's memory fails you as you grow....so why the heck am I still keeping JUNK?!!!

Only God knows....now I have to find a place to keep my new Junk!!

STOP

2006-11-23T15:36:00.000+08:00

This is one of those days that I feel I should be entitled to declare today a public holiday for myself!! The body's aching, the mind's gone totally numb, the clock is ticking wayyyy too slow, I'm dreaming, caffeine doesn't work anymore, keep looking out the window every few minutes, keep looking at the clock every few seconds ....blah blah blah...

All I can think of right now is:

"Wouldn't it be nice.......?"

And guess what jingle comes to mind.....Not sure if you've heard it but when I was in Australia last it was such a catchy tune that my sis and I were singing it everywhere we went.

Heard of the Cadbury jingle which goes like ...."wouldn't it be nice if the world was cadbury, dada dadda lalala.....wouldn't it be nice ...."

Admittedly I don't actually know the full lyrics of the ad but we love the tune and we'll keep humming it or adding our own lyrics to the melody! Hmmmm....

Wouldn't it be nice to just stay at home and relax?

Wouldn't it be nice to watch TV all day long?

Wouldn't it be nice to lay in bed after 7.30am?

Even after 10am?

Wouldn't it be nice to have breakfast at 10am in your jammies?

Wouldn't it be nice to take a bath whenever you feel like it?

Wouldn't it be nice not to touch the computer for more than 48hrs? (don't think I can make do for longer)

Wouldn't it be nice if I can shop all day long at my own pace?

Wouldn't it be nice to get presents from loved ones (no special occassion attached)?

Wouldn't it be nice to have a long warm bath now?

Wouldn't it be nice take a scenic drive alone?

Wouldn't it be nice to have a picnic lunch in the park?

Wouldn't it be nice to have a water fight?

Wouldn't it be nice to jump on a trampolin?

Wouldn't it be nice to blow bubbles and catch them?

Ahh.....splendid picture perfect of my "Wouldn't-it-be-nice Day"

Faces of 007s

2006-11-17T10:43:00.000+08:00

Was driving towards the cineplex when my hubby received a call. Before you know it, we made a detour to collect some documents from a colleague of his. In the midst of peak hour traffic, I was grumbling to him that we can't make it to the show on time ....afterall it is James Bond!

Honestly, I'm not a crazy fan of James but since there've been re-runs of his movies everyday - from Sean Connery, to George Lazenby, to Roger Moore, to Timothy Dalton, to Pierce Brosnan and now Daniel Craig.

It's a whole month of Bond Galore on Astro with all the Bond girls parading their booties and boobsies on screen, it's no wonder men and women the same are queuing up for the lastest Bond flick "Casino Royale".

James Bond's character has been played by 6 actors and they each gave the character a unique personality, adding spice and originality, and James continues to be ageless, charismatic, sophisticated, unstoppable, witty and in a class of his own.

1. Personally I think the best Bond goes to Sean Connery who potrayed the character superbly with class. Sean made Bond seem absolutely irresistible, charming and mysterious at the same time. With every Bond episode, although he may have aged a little, one couldn't agree with me more when I say he's even more attractive as he ages!! (right ladies?!!!)

He's starred in 6 films: Dr. No (1962), From Russia with Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965), You only Live Twice (1967) and Diamonds are Forever (1971) and unofficially in Never Say Never Again (1983).

isn't he "delicious" to watch?

2. Next was George Lazenby and we know why he only starred as Bond ONCE!! This Australian lad had no previous acting experience before acting as Bond and I find him just to be a mediocre Bond in "On Her Majesty's Secret Service"(1969).

Should trust me when I say "tak steam" langsung!!!!

Watch it and believe it!

3. He was followed by Roger Moore. You'd always picture him as The Saint but never James Bond!!!(at least I would anyway) Although I must say, even though he didn't potray Bond as a character with class and spohistication, Moore did bring about the witty and humourous side of Bond and movie-goers would agree that he was funny as Bond! Needless to say Moore just wasn't as tough as Sean Connery's Bond.

He starred in 7 Films: In Live and Let Die (1973), The Man with the Golden Gun (1974), The Spy Who Loved Me (1977), Moonraker (1979), For Your Eyes Only (1981), Octopussy (1983) and A View to Kill (1985).

He was the un-secret- secret agent, everywhere he goes everyone knows his name!

4. Timothy Dalton was a more controversial Bond. He introduced the "dark", serious and hard-edged type of Bond, which most audiences do not like. This Bond had less time for ladies (weird)!! He was unlike the smooth, suave character Sean and Roger potrayed. Although he was the closest thing to Ian Fleming's Bond in the book!

Timothy only starred in 2 films: In the Living Daylights (1987) and Licence to Kill (1989).

"Fleming's Bond"

5. After 6 years without any Bond films, Pierce Brosnan made an explosive performance in Goldeneye. Pierce Brosnan played a similar Bond like Sean did - smooth, has a way with the ladies, has witty comments for every occassion and showed also the "darker" side of Bond - proving that he's not invincible.

Pierce, who was the closest next best Bond, unfortunately only starred in 4 films: Goldeneye (1995), Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002).

2nd Best Bond - Not too tall, Not too built, yet still Irresistible!

The latest James Bond - Daniel Craig. Many people were surprised by the choice of the next Bond. He got the role from the likes of Hugh Jackman, Clive Owen and Joseph Fiennes. Many critics have doubted his ability to play Bond but indeed in this year's latest Blockbuster "Casino Royale", Daniel has proved to audiences worldwide that he is capable of potraying James Bond including his charm, wit, sophistication, toughness and humour. Indeed we saw also the softer side of Bond....which I must say is not typically Bond.

So Daniel surprised me with his acting and his stunts. I must say he's the "Destructor Bond". I've never seen a Bond so destructive.

All throughout the movie he's destroying a truck, a car, a building and even Venice!! I supposed that complements the softer and lovable side of him.

Craig's the Hot Bond with the Hot Bod! **yummy**

I do not want to delve too much into Casino Royale for the benefit of those who haven't seen the film. Do head down to the movies...It is rather mesmerising and the humour is uncalled for.

Enjoy the movie................folks!

Black + White Uniform and....

2006-11-10T16:05:00.000+08:00

Everyday I see them.

Everyday I wait and wait until they decide to let me go.

Everyday they cause me to hate driving.

Everyday I fear I might hit them.

Everyday their faces change (young, old and new)

But one thing remains....their black and white uniform and that MOUSTACHE!!

Ever noticed that our Malaysian Traffic Police most often than not wears a moustache together with their polished black and white uniforms? What is the deal there? Is that part of their uniform? If it is not mandatory why do they opt to keep moustaches?

In my opinion, perhaps it is their way to look fierce on the roads - which will hopefully keep those tyrants and offenders on their toes while on the roads.

But do you fear these traffic police with or without their moustaches? It doesn't make much of a difference to me because when you're driving at 80-100km/h you hardly notice the moustache or even the face of the traffic police. If not for their noticeable black and white uniforms, waving hands and whistles, perhaps most of them would have been knocked down by many drivers.

It should be mandatory for them to wear their luminous trench coat/rain coat (with or without the rain) which makes them even more noticeable; especially those "brave" traffic police that stands too close to vehicles while directing traffic at T-junctions!!

Not to say that I have no respect for them at all but today's YOUNG traffic police can be quite dumb! I'm not sure whether they know the traffic flow of KL roads for them to be stationed at strategic positions directing traffic in hope of easing traffic congestions. Instead, the traffic flow and congestion worsens because of them!! In that case we'd rather opt not to have a traffic police there to guide traffic and maintain using the traffic lights during peak hours.

They do do their jobs but as a result of lack of traffic flow study, they are the cause of most traffic congestions in KL. For example, the junction at Berjaya Time Square on Jln Hang Tuah. Traffic police usually allows traffic from Puduraya to move along (at least about 15-20 mins) and during that time traffic along Jln Imbi, Jln Sultan Ismail, Jln Bukit Bintang and the rest has build up. So drivers can get stuck in a standstill situation for at least 40 mins before their lanes are allowed to pass. It is quite silly really!!!

Some drivers even have time to drop-by the nearest ice-cream vendor by the roadside and finish off eating that ice-cream in that 40 mins of dull waiting.

What do I do? Inspect buildings around me, watch pedestrians cross the road, keep a look out for strange characters on the road, clean my side compartments, touch-up my make-up or sing a-long to tunes on the radio!

That's why during peak hours it is important to have GOOD Music on the radio - be it classical, jazz, blues, rock, or dondang sayang!!! Something must KEEP ME ENTERTAINED in that 40-60 minutes of standstill!!!!

And that's how I spend my time during my way back home.....observing our traffic police is just one of the things!!

By the way I think they look odd wearing long sleeved uniforms!! Don't they get HOT!!

~~~~Travel Safe Home with.....Patience and Alertness!~~~~

Newfound Passion

2006-10-12T15:18:00.000+08:00

Recently, a friend's been raving about a particular outlet near my office and I thought I'd "check it out"! I've never come across or heard of this place until I found myself at its front doors.

From far, it does not seem like the kind of shop I would enter. The displays of the handbags MAY entice me. I would definitely be intrigued by the flashing sequins, the shiny leather, the soft velvety look of the handbags but I would never picture myself stepping into such a boutique.
I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the range of colourful handbags, in all different shapes, sizes and design. It's handcrafted to the the finest and I can imagine the enormously hole it will make in my wallet!!

And I was CORRECT! I had eyes on this messenger tote handbag called Cameilla Denim - with its beautiful embroidery ....but when I flipped the price tag, *gulp* *gulp*.... it's freaking RM498!!! (i think)

No matter what, anything with a price tag above RM300 is wwwaaaayyyyyy over my budget at the moment. If I were 8 years younger, without any financial commitments, family and son to support, I would have immediately bought that tote. Now that I'm older a wiser, I have learnt to opt for cheaper but similar quality goods. But of course, if someone offered to buy for me, I wouldn't hesitate for a second!!! --->Thanks Darling, you're the BEST!!!

That's not only all I liked from Carmenz. In a particular display cabinet there's a collection of Martine Harraca's jewellery. Just by looking at it, under the yellow light, it's absolutely to die for. The crafted pieces with its unique design, adorned with Swarovski crystals and some with real diamonds!!! The bracelet, the ring, the necklace, the earrings....are just screaming out ---- GLAMOUR!

Then, when you actually touch it, hmmmm.....it's plastic! Ok....not the cheap plastic microwaveable material or the Tupperware kind of material....it's a different sort of expensive plastic. Apparently it's made out of some form of resin which can be hand-sculpted into jewellery, sculptures and big murals. In this case, the jewellery tells it all! Since I don't have any pictures with me, these Harraca's are amazing (from FFFAAAARRRRRR) They look incredibly heavy, real and expensive (in 5-digit figures) but in fact, the bracelet costs about RM800 and the ring costs RM390. So that's not toooooo bad for "plastic" jewellery!

Again, I wouldn't hesitate for a sec if someone offers to get a set for me!!! *hint hint* *wink wink*

Yay!!!! At the end of my short lunch-hour shopping expedition, I came out a happy camper because I purchased 2 cute bracelets costing me RM10 each! Yes yes...indeed I'm a cheapskate! But what the heck.... as long as it looks decent, matches my outfit...I'm good to go!

How old am I?

2006-10-12T15:17:00.000+08:00

You Are 30 Years Old

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe.

13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.

20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.

30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more!

40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

What Age Do You Act?

Does my Sarcasm get to you?

2006-10-12T10:36:00.000+08:00

You Have Your Sarcastic Moments

While you're not sarcastic at all times, you definitely have a cynical edge.
In your opinion, not all people are annoying. Some are dead!
And although you do have your genuine moments, you can't help getting your zingers in.
Some people might be a little hurt by your sarcasm, but it's more likely they think you're hilarious.

How Sarcastic Are You?

Hello Bert!

2006-10-12T10:19:00.000+08:00

You Are Bert

Extremely serious and a little eccentric, people find you loveable - even if you don't love them!

You are usually feeling: Logical - you rarely let your emotions rule you

You are famous for: Being smart, a total neat freak, and maybe just a little evil

How you life your life: With passion, even if your odd passions (like bottle caps and pigeons) are baffling to others

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

My 53% Female & 47% Male Brain

2006-10-12T10:14:00.000+08:00

Your Brain is 53% Female, 47% Male

Your brain is a healthy mix of male and female
You are both sensitive and savvy
Rational and reasonable, you tend to keep level headed
But you also tend to wear your heart on your sleeve

What Gender Is Your Brain?

Me 65%Right Brain, You.....?

2006-10-12T10:01:00.000+08:00

You Are 35% Left Brained, 65% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning.Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others.If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic.Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet.
The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility.Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way.If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art.Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

Huffs and Puffs

2006-10-11T10:51:00.000+08:00

Betty Crocker? Martha Stewart? Jamie Oliver?

I'm sure you've heard or come across these names before. It's a wonder how many recipes there are in the world and how do you pick out the BEST of the lot?!

Recently, I've been on my Baking-Craze Moods and instead of sticking to my late-grandmother's recipe I decided to be tech savvy and search for them on the Net. Surprisingly, I've collected a few (mind u only ones that seem irresistible are selected!) and so far I've tried 3:

1. Agar-agar Marble

2. Cornflakes Biscuit

3. Chocolate Chip (the so-called Famous Amos recipe)

So far, the BEST is still the Cornflakes one! Perhaps I love any cornflakes cookies so I'm quite biased. The other 2 needs a bit of adjustments here and there in order for it to be PERFECT!

Of late, I've been on a hunt for a Custard Cream Puff Recipe. But which one is the BEST and YUMMIEST of them all?!!! So far, I've got 2 recipes. It differs in ingredients and the filling. One has ingredients that I already have or can easily find but the other has ingredients that is difficult to find and its methods are complicated. Then the filling....some say Vanilla Custard, some say Custard Cream....so which one is the one I'm looking for? But some methods/ingredients are easy whereas some are difficult/complicated. Obviously I'm trying to opt for the easiest although I don't think making cream puffs is EASY!!!

It takes hours from start to finish....so no wonder you rarely find cream puffs sold everywhere!

Got a few delicious photos here.....and I didn't realise that cream puffs come in various Looks, Shapes, Sizes, Fillings and of course TASTES!!!!

Perhaps if any of you have a PERFECT recipe for me to try....do let me know!

(ps: esp a Custard Cream Puff recipe)

Unfamiliar Surroundings

2006-10-06T11:53:00.000+08:00

Believe it or not, Moving Blogs is just like Moving House!

You have to 'pack-up' your previous blogs and transfer them to the new site. Don't forget to leaving a forwarding address in case anyone cares to reach you. But obviously, moving blogsites are easier than moving house. The former only requires you to click on the mouse a few times and the computer will do the rest. So while I'm sitting on my ass waiting for files to be transferred, I post you one question:

Between a familiar, serene environment and the noisy, hustle bustle of city living - which one would you choose?

This morning it dawned on me that the condominium we purchased in the city will be completed by April 2007 (hopefully!) That means that we have to leave the lovely resort-like surrounding that we're used to and adapt to the noise, pollution and busy city life. Then I wondered, why did we choose to buy a place in the heart of the city in the first place when the current place is perfectly fine?

Initially, the idea popped up because we wanted to avoid spending most of our time getting caught in the worsening KL traffic congestion - getting to and from work and back to the quiet confinements of our resort. The only sounds we hear at our resort are:

screaming children in the playground/pool
neigbour's elephant footsteps
the lift "ting"
cars honking (rare)
faint sound of motorists on the highway
birds, bees and flies
aeroplanes taking off/landing at weird hours

Those are my familiar surroundings.

So what would it be like when we move to the city? I'm sure besides the noisy & busy streets 24hours a day, there's also the exaggerated levels of air pollution.

Wouldn't it be unhealthy for my son to be running around at the playground or swimming in the pool? Is it a good & healthy environment to bring up kids? Of course one can say that since the new place is strategically located near the KLCC park and a nearby golf course, finding green spots should not be an issue. One can still experience living amongst the green whilst in the city.

Fine...next comes the question of where's the nearest Giant? Hmmm...this is a required necessity. Currently, a 5 mins drive would take us to Kelana Jaya's Giant (choose between the big one n the small one). Upon moving into the city, the nearest supermarket would be Cold Storage at KLCC!!

As most of you would know, CS is the most expensive supermarket to shop at. And even though we cut cost on travelling expenses, we'll spend the same amount if we have to shop at CS. *sigh*

Then the nearest malls would be KLCC, Lot 10, Sungai Wang, BB Plaza, Berjaya Times Square and (if you're pushing it) Ampang Park or City Square (both of which have no shops that interest me much!!)

I'll definitely miss my routine visits almost every weekend to One Utama, The Curve and IKEA. Not forgetting, TTDI wet market, Aunty Jenny's Tau Foo Fa, Uptown Kedai Runcit @ Subang Perdana and Rojak man beside Gazebo - just to name a few!

Sacrifices one has to make in order to satisfy ones needs of better time management and time spent!!

I hope I will be able to adapt easily with new unfamiliar surroundings and be as happy as I am at my current home! Till this move happens, I'll cherish whatever green view I own from my balcony and whatever fresh air I can inhale at the resort.

We've Moved!

2006-10-03T15:15:00.000+08:00

Like everyone else, I've exceeded my quota and decided to call it quits on Friendster and make Blogger my new-found home!

It's a very different environment here and I know that it will take time for me to get used to all the functions on this site.

I also hope that all my blogger fans and friends will visit me here from now on.....

Take a seat...Prepare yourself for an endless journey of stories with me!

AND THE JOURNEY BEGINS.................