It's ALL about ME

So late into 2011

2011-02-21T16:13:00.003+08:00

It has been simply ages since I even touched my blog. Not so much as I lost interest but time was not so kind to me. There were just so many things to do and see to.

The first month of the year was dedicated to moving house and settling in. In fact, we are still moving furniture about and rearranging carpets and what not. Trying to find the most suitable place and thing for every room. My living room is still not complete and I guess we will get to that room eventually.

As far as events go, my maid of 2 years also just left over the weekend. It was a rather sad and tearful week the last week. The two younger kids are taking it the hardest of course. Khadijah takes such a long time to warm up to people which means I dont get much rest, She just clings to me. I am sure over time it will be much better with the new maid.

I have also started Ali at school. he seems to be enjoying it although he has not named any friends yet. Will see how this first week at school goes, he has gone 3 days in total. No tantrums in the morning and goes willingly but to get him dressed and ready does take some time lah.

The weather is just so extremely hot these days. Humid and sticky. Feel like having a shower the whole day. Makes you extremely lazy too.

Next post will try to put up some pixs of the new house!

Home from Italy

2010-10-19T13:23:00.006+08:00

Our flight home was from Rome. We had planned to spend 2 nights in Rome but in the end we never even made it to the city. We only had a night and we decided to stay near the airport. Which means we have to go to Rome another time.

We stayed at Fumicino, it is a fishing village and very quiet despite the fact that the airport was just 10 minutes away. The hotel we stayed at was very nice for Euro85. The rooms were big, 2 rooms actually!

Our last dinner that night was seafood of course but it was not as good as the one we had in Cavalier or Bologna.

We had clams ....

Fish, mussels and pasta

Risotto and mussels

The flight home was good and we were dying to see the kids. Khadijah was well behaved on the plane. We can definitely take her again.

Firenze

2010-10-19T12:32:00.006+08:00

Bologna is a very serene and peaceful city being a university town and all. There are attractions there but mostly historical buildings and churches with several great artworks found here and there. Only when we there we found out there is an international airport but airlines like France Air would take you direct to Kuala Lumpur. Something to consider seriously as I would love to go back there again and really explore the city.

After 2 nights in Bologna we took a drive to Florence or known to the locals as Firenze. Don't understand why they don't just call it Firenze. We thought it would be a long drive but not so. We took less than 2 hours. Once we got into the outskirts of the town it took us longer to get to the hotel because we arrived just after 5 or so and got caught in after office traffic.

Driving around the city I actually saw a sign pointing out to a sex shop. hmmmmmm .... Anyways, the drive from Bologna to Firenze was mostly on the highway but even then we could still catch glimpses of scenic views like this:

What is my take on Firenze? I love it. The old architecture, the cobbled streets, the historical buildings. The air. Everything. We spent 3 nights there and you know what? Not enough. I didn't get to go into the Uffizi, I didn't get to see the Gardens, I didn't get to go on that famous street on the bridge where there are jewellers, I didn't get to see the Duomo up close. I know! We had 3 nights. Day 1 we arrived late already and just walked around a bit, looked for dinner and retired. Got up Day 2 and Bob decided he wanted to drive back to Bologna to get more "stuff" from his bike shops. So I wondered around Firenze and saved it all to do with him. Day 3 we only managed to do the Michael Angelo Square to catch the gorgeous view.

We had time to see the Salvatore Ferragamo museum, something I have always wanted to do but was disappointed though. There was a tribute to Greta Garbo on so I could not see all of Ferragamo's work of art like I wanted to. The boutique was very nice though.

This was our last chance to shop so we shopped lah. And we discovered everything on foot. We only walked along the Tombuoni Street and some streets off of it which is hardly an inch of the city. But isn't it gorgeous?!

This is the hotel where we stayed. Club Plaza. It belongs to a chain of hotel BH Group. They own a whole group of hotels along the street. Good business this hotels!

However, when we left Florence to head to Rome we stopped at The Mall. Its a factory outlet place and really some good buys there. You get brands like Gucci, Ferragamo, Zegna, Bottega and Dior. Next time I will just head straight for these outlets to shop. Really good bargains!

When we were at The Mall, Bob made a beeline for Zegna and I waited at the cafe and had a really good cup of hot chocolate Italian style which might as well have been chocolate mousse! Whatever it is, it was delicious. Writing this now makes me wish I had a cup infront of me. Looking at the machine, I really believe it is just melted chocolate.

This is a beautiful postcard of Firenze from the top of Michael Angelo Square. You can see the whole city and most major sights from here. It really helped that the sky was good that day.

Oh ya! In Firenze we stayed at 2 hotels. This is the first hotel we stayed at. It also belongs to the BH Group. I just loved the courtyard. Could imagine having scones and hot chocolate accompanied with cannolas here everyday. Sigh .... a dream but a good dream eh!

This overpowering door was along the street where we stayed. It was night and we were looking for food but I was so taken by this door: its size, built and strength! Not sure what is inside actually. If I researched the guidebooks enough I am sure I could find out what it is.

HAH! I found a pasta vending machine. Can you beat that?!? You could have olio, carbonaro or just tomato sauce. Imaginative eh!

Shopping on the streets of Firenze ..... love the cobbled lanes and side streets. I could live there for sure!

That's the Ferragamo building. Yup, a whole building. Offices, boutique and the museum. Was very nice indeed!

A breath taking view of the city. There was so many angles to take from ....

I find the city very romantic. So between Paris and Firenze and Bologna? It is a hard choice. Oh ya ... and Besancon, another romantic city.

We only saw glimpses of two countries and already undecided or where we would consider staying. Yup, you read right. Consider staying. I love Europe ....Maybe I should not be too hasty in consider staying as we were only there for a 2 week holiday. I can see us there, that's all. And there is nothing wrong with a dream is there.

See how they keep trees from hundreds of years ago and not chop everything down. If we were in Malaysia the trees would be taken away to make way for what? More buildings which will be empty anyway.

And this is a jail. More than a hundred years old. It is still there and there is NO INTENTION of TAKING IT DOWN. IT IS A HISTORICAL SITE.

Ahhhh .... The Uffizi. Wait .... I will be back to visit you! All around the Uffizi there are vendors selling knick knacks and Florentine leather. The best quality and some of the designs are really fantastic. Wearing it no one would actually know what a bargain you got it for. Did I buy some? Need you ask!

I love the windows and doors in Europe. I think I took tonnes of pictures of these. Windows, doors, walls, bricks.

We took the hop on hop off bus and even then we didn't finish seeing the entire city. What a waste but seriously folks, we have to go there again. I feel there was not enough time on our hands and it does not help that places close early. Even if we start early in the day. If you want to take a walking tour you have to stay longer. At least a week.

My plans now is to find a way to go back there!!!

Bologna, Italy

2010-10-13T11:38:00.002+08:00

Our first stop in Italy was Bologna. Smack in the middle of Florence and Milan. The only reason we made Bologna on our list was because we were going to watch the SBK (Superbike) race in Imola that weekend. I am glad we made this a stop and spent 2 nights there. Bologna is a fantastic city. It is old and has many historical sights.

It is more of a university town and houses the oldest University in Europe. We didn't have time to sightsee in Bologna but driving around it was good enough. It has those typical cobbled streets which I love, small roads which makes driving a big car impossible.

There are not many cafes littered all over like in France or Florence but peace and tranquility you can easily find. It has its own international airport which means in future we can avoid the busy Rome airport.

Khadijah was probably wondering all the while where am I and what am I doing at this bike race. The noise for the lower cc race was bearable but I had to sit out the final race. Little did we know that the tickets we chose which was for a covered grandstand was the Ducati grandstand. Such high adrenaline rushing through me during the race. This is the first bike race I attended and definitely would love doing it again.

Bob said watching the race there was something to remember because for one the crowd was not rowdy and after the race there was no rush or traffic jam to go out like in Sepang. Despite the massive crowd and also one exit and one entrance, people were calm and walked out orderly. The weather did help of course.

In Bologna we stayed at a hotel I found through the internet. It was a little street but we were so glad to find that the room which we paid Euro85 for had a kitchenette and a washing machine! The room was spacious which gave me chance to repack and of course do laundry.

What I liked best about the hotel was the courtyard below us. We were on the first floor so opening the windows you can look down into a green courtyard. If you knew the neighbour there would be no problems talking to them across the window.

Sightseeing in Bologna meant churches and the possibility of seeing some early works of artists like MichaelAngelo. I enjoyed driving through the streets though and watching students mull about. There is a street for die hard shoppers and you can find brands like Gucci and Prada. So not such a small city after all.

The other reason we were in Bologna was because of the Ducati factory. Bologna was the home of Ducati and Modena the home for Ferrari which was about 30mins away. We went there too. Worth the trip of course. Bob enjoyed it and so did I actually.

After Bologna we made our way to Florence. Ahhhh .... another beautiful city of course. Tne museums, the small and cobbled streets and walkways. Getting lost in Florence was just as nice as getting lost in Paris.

France At its Best

2010-10-07T11:21:00.008+08:00

When we first decided to holiday in Europe we wanted to do four countries: France, Switzerland, Italy and Spain. But it was impossible to drive around these four countries in two weeks. We wanted to enjoy the sights and sounds as much as we could so in the end we brought it down to France and Italy.

Am glad we did that and even then, we didn't have the time to see the whole country. We had to map our route carefully and highlight what we wanted to see the most. We arrived in Paris and spent four glorious days which of course was not enough. That gives us a reason to go back.

We made our way to Besancon from Paris, drove into Geneva for dinner and stayed in Anncey, a small little town almost South of France. We then went to Marseilles, Monaco, into Italy -- Bologna, Florence and off to Rome. We didn't even go into the city of Rome as we spent an extra night in Florence. Another reason to go to Rome in future.

Many of my friends are asking me which destination I lke best and its a tough one to answer. I like them all. But I think France most of all. This picture above is of Monaco from a Menton town, the last town in France before crossing the border to Italy. Am glad ir was a clear day when we were there so we managed to get some nice shots.

The main reason we wanted to see Monaco, besides it being scenic and all, was of course because of F1. To see the city of Monte Carlo, its loops, winds and bends, really makes you take your hat off to those F1 drivers because it is a challenge indeed to do those roads.

This is part of the F1 race track. Bob wanted to get a shot of that famous tunnel but it is impossible to stop and take a shot there when the roads are not closed cause it is busy.

The marina itself is littered with yatchs of all sizes. Just so happens that when we were there, there was a Yatch Show going on. There was a lot for us to google and oogle at when we were there. Just the day before when we were in St Tropez we were imagining owning a yatch and parking at the prestigious bay. Now in Monaco, we relive the dream again but added living in Monaco to the list!

France is really pretty in Autumn and by far my favourite season. The houses and buildings look extra nice and the cool crisp air makes walking a breeze. Don't ask me to walk that some mileage here in Malaysia though, as it is just too unbearable to go outside. Living in a four season country would not be so bad now eh ...

Many people also asked what it was like travelling with a baby and my answer is simple, babies are the easiest to travel with, especiaqlly breastfeeding babies. As long as they have their mom nothing else matters. But honestly, she was easy to travel with and did not give us a hard time. Also bringing a baby makes it possible for us to leave the hotel in the morning and don't come back till late at night.

Driving into Monaco from Nice there us just so many tunnels. Even after you cross Italy to go to Genova there are just tunnels. I started counting them but gave up halfway. Just too many lah. But all along you could still see that scenic coast. We drove off the highway at some point to take a shot of the beach and France on the other end. Just beautiful!

No matter which part of the beach we stopped at you could get this kinda view with building or houses peeping out through the hills. I wonder if they have to an EIA before they build but then again not being in the tropics would make it different. I doubt they have landslide problems from what I could see and their cities are old, much much older than ours. Goes to show that even hundreds of years ago they have thought out well and good how to build their city as well as plan for future developments. Such forsight. Monaco also has public lifts due to its heights and bearing in mind the elderly and also folk who just don't see themselves going up steep hills.

As we were walking around the Monte Carlo bay as well as other stops like St Maxime and Cavalier along the coast, I found myself asking would it be better to own a yatch or a private jet. hmmmmmmm .....

Gorgeous view isn't it?!?

Now that I am back I can't help but miss all those gorgeous pastries, croissants and desserts. The fruit tarts had such fresh fruits on them, the hot chocolate that was just sinful. Ahhhh ...... In Italy the pastries were not so good but I dit get to eat my fair share of cannolas (sorry I forgot to take pictures of these) and regret not eating more! I don't know where to find them here and the closest I have seen is Nigella showing you how to make them. Oh ya ... Italians love Nutella and I even tried Nutella gelato. Memang sedap!

Most patisseries in South of France and Italy are big into meringues. They come in really huge sizes and variations. Dipped in chocolate, in berry sauces and comes with fillings or fruits. Of course I didn't have the chance to try any. Where lah to put everything. If I was a bottomless pit would be different

This is a picture of ... guess? Venice? Hahaha ... looks like it but it isn't. This is Annecy where we stopped for a night after dinner in Geneva. We wanted to stay along this canal but the hotels located there were full. It is a very romantic little town, and cost of living much cheaper too, with its cobbled streets, quaint shops, little streets and canals everywhere. Believe it or not a small town like this has some 2 million tourists a year!

There were a lot of elderly folk walking around. Safe to assume that the younger generation would prefer thebig bright lights of more fast paced cities like Paris or Marseilles. Along the drive through France, through the countryside to be specific, we noticed that the little towns were almost like ghost towns. Not a soul walking around and no children either playing in the streets or the fields. When I asked Wani, Bob's cousin in bBesancon, she said most people in France keep country homes and worked in the city. Ahhhhhh ....

There are more stories to tell. Will unwrap them slowly. Are we planning our next trip? Yes. of course. So much more of Europe we have not seen. Do we have the time to do it all. God willing ....

Morocco in Paris

2010-10-07T07:51:00.004+08:00

We had four nights in Paris and initially we thought it may have been too much time to spend in one place but you know what? It was not enough! There were so many things we could not do due to lack of time.

Opening hours of attractions and outlets are usually from 10am to 7pm. This may seem long but it really isn't. Especially when you want to take in everything. What more with long waiting lines to enter the Lourve or Notre Dame. We had to be very selective in where we entered but at least we got to see everything even if it was from the outside.

We found the Mosque de Paris, a Moroccon styled mosque. The design is simple and basic but the architectural design and details is what makes it unique. It is hardly used during the day and we spent a good hour there taking in the details and enjoying the peace.

It didn't feel like being in a mosque, felt more like being in a garden with all the greenery surrounding us. Malaysia should design mosques like this, better than hard concrete. Try and see how everything is in symmetry too.

This is the front of the mosque. We took the Metro from the hotel to get here but got out at the wrong side of the street. We also missed it but luckily saw the minaret peeping from between the buildings as we walked the streets. This is located in the Latin Quarters which is known for being a student area with cheap bookstores and bargain buys.

I loved the tiles in the mosque. Wonder if its too late to design a mural like this in our house ....

Almost every corner of the mosque was a good pictorial. The greens really make a difference. Despite the chill in the air, the garden atmosphere adds to the tranquility of the mosque.

If you look beyond, you can see door after door after door. Really breath taking! Of course by the time we finished walking through the mosque we were starving and it was almost 1pm. Since we were in a mosque, we were sure we could easily find halal food. We asked and were told to go around the corner behind the mosque and behold, we found a Moroccon restaurant. There was no English menu so we ordered as best we could with our minimal understanding and ability to read French.

The restaurant itseld is a tourist attraction. I assume it is as old as the mosque. It was huge and had room after room for dining. It looked small from the outside therefore we were pleasantly surprised to see all the space. The picture below is the ceiling of the restaurant.

When our order arrived, we enjoyed couscous, lamb, grilled chicken, eaten with some vegetable soup. There was also bread to dip it with. SEDAP. By far it was our best meal yet in Paris.

The restaurant looked like cafe from the outside with many people enjoying the cool air, a cup of coffee and smokes.

A really nice find for us in Paris. A place I would recommend to all to eat and visit.

Arrival in Paris

2010-10-07T07:34:00.004+08:00

Hi!! We are back from a beautiful two weeks in Europe. It was a great trip and we enjoyed ourselves immensely. We arrived on a beautiful Friday morning and got caught in morning traffic to the hotel but that gave us time to digest a little.

When we got to the hotel we had booked online we were a bit disappointed we could not check in as the room was not ready. So we left our bags, went to look for breakfast and wandered the streets of Paris.

We walked down the street and came face to face with Champs Ellysee ... with cars buzzing around it. This is me and Khadijah trying to get our bearings to see where we were ...

I enjoyed walking along the streets of Paris. It is so pretty in Fall with the leaves turning a beautiful orange yellow. What I like most about Paris? The old buildings and the feel of the city. There are vibes of the city I don't really know how to explain but I like it and easily I would vote this as a favourite destination.

We walked and we walked that morning and found the Eiffel Tower. It was not warm although the sun was up. The air was nice and crisp and the sky was oh so clear. In fact all the time we were in Europe the sky is absolutely gorgeous!

Check out this picture and just how beautiful it is. I think I could definitely live in this city!

Bob -- KL Thailand Cambodia Laos pixs 2

2010-08-11T15:34:00.003+08:00

In Siem Reap, Bob managed to see smaller wats and didn't have time to see the ultimate Angkor Wat. They had planned to leave Siem Reap that day itself but unfortunately when they got back to the hotel it started raining so hard they had to cancel their plans to leave.

The streets of Siem Reap at night looks rather empty doesn't it ... hmmm

More of the Angkor Wat area ...

I guess its scenery like this that makes the ride all that worth while ...

Bob preparing for another long riding day ...or perhaps they just stopped. All the way it rained and they were wet and dry, dry and wet. Also the reason why they cancelled going up to Loas. Saving it for a more suitable time as fas as the weather is concerned.

There are more pictures but I honestly am not sure where or what. But take it from me, all the pictures have beautiful scenes of beaches to dream of and bikes to ride on *LOL*

Bob -- KL Thailand Cambodia Laos pixs

2010-08-11T13:47:00.003+08:00

This is Pattaya, and I was right about it looking like Batu Feringghi! Bob said there were buildings everywhere.

This is Bangkok, Bob said they got lost and matters were made worst with the rain.

Can't remember where this is, they were preparing to go off lah ...

Typical kampung in Thailand ...

The road ahead awaits guys ... vroooom vrooommm

Bob -- KL Thailand Cambodia Laos Part 5

2010-08-11T12:53:00.004+08:00

Bob came back last Friday. He made it home from Siem Reap in three days. What a ride it must have been, I can only imagine how much their butts hurt!! *LOL* Those last 3 days saw 700 to 900kms of travel daily.

They left Siem Reap and travelled some 700 km (or more) to Hua Hin, the next day was Huan Hin to Krabi and the last day was direct to KL from Krabi.

I have downloaded their pictures but can't caption all of them cause am not too sure where all the places were. He narrated some of it but I can't remember now.

This picture was early in their journey and I think they stopped somewhere on the way to Hua Hin for a break. I may be wrong but whatever it is, nice beach!

They stopped for makan here ....

Ahhhhh .... untouched pristine white sandy beach. What a beauty! I am pretty sure this is Hua Hin.

The bikes all look so clean here and even their faces are all still so fresh. These are Bob's friends, Shahrul and Azmi. They seemed to have enjoyed the trip too. Bet if it wasn't for the Ramadhan just around the corner they would probably be in China by now. :D

Bob -- KL Thailand Cambodia Laos Part 4

2010-08-04T10:11:00.003+08:00

Bob arrived safely in Siem Reap on Monday. They were stuck in Sihanoukville another day on Sunday due to the bad weather. He said it was raining so hard and they couldnt't even go out. Which means they did not see much of the place. He described it as a cowboy town!

The decided to ride the whole 700km to Siem Reap and not stop in Phnom Penh as planned. They spent two nights in Siem Reap and today will be crossing the border back to Thailand. From the map it would be logical for them to take the Poi Pet border.

Not much description has been given to me about Siem Reap except food wise. Bob said they can only eat Indian vegetarian food as everything else contains pork. He took the chance to visit Angkor Wat yesterday but didn't go in. They just took a look at the smaller Wats. He says he is keeping it for another visit with the family. Imagine going all the way there and not seeing one of the seven wonders of the world!

His plan today is to ride from Siem Reap, cross the border and take a 800km ride all the way down to Huan Hin. Loooooong way that is, perhaps they will stop when tired. Can't wait to see his pictures and will post them here.

Bob -- KL Thailand Cambodia Laos Part 3

2010-07-31T22:42:00.002+08:00

Bob is safely in Cambodia as I write this in a seaside town of Sihanoukville. The ride there took him about half a day from Pattaya. The border crossing was not that smooth but there was not much protocol either or enquiries about bringing the motorbikes across the border.

He arrived late in Sihanoukville so I am unable to give you a description of the place. From what I gather, I think it is how Krabi was 10 years ago. Only one big 5 star hotel, Sokha Resort, but many little quaint guesthouses and "hotels" that operate from shop lots.

When I asked Bob what Pattaya was like, he said pubs and drinking holes everywhere. Just as I expected looking at the map and the way development took place there. It is probably another Phuket but maybe on a larger scale.

Bob will spend another night in Sihanoukville tomorrow and will leave for Phnom Penh on Monday. He hopes to be in Siem Reap on Tuesday and back in Bangkok by Thursday. He seems to be enjoying his adventure. Something he has always wanted to do. Some things you just have to get out of your system!

Lionel Richie "Penny Lover"

2010-07-31T01:26:00.001+08:00

This song has a very special place in my heart.

Lionel Richie - Truly

2010-07-31T01:21:00.000+08:00

Bob -- KL Thailand Cambodia Laos Part 2

2010-07-30T10:42:00.002+08:00

Yesterday Bob arrived in Hua Hin at about 4pm. He did not report about weather forecasts but was still in high spirits! Also he did not report much about the scenery which I take it as nothing much to say?

Today he is departing Hua Hin and will go around Bangkok to Pattaya. This is to avoid toll roads and some motorways do not allow motorbikes on them. After Pattaya he will be off to Sihanoukville tomorrow through the border of Hat Lek and Kah Kong.

Pattaya from my search on the internet seems like a very much commercial place and looks somewhat like Batu Ferringi in Penang: littered with hotels and high rise buildings. You find the likes of Marriot and Sheraton along the beach so that will give you an inkling of what to expect. Another Phuket or more perhaps?

Latest pictures

2010-07-29T11:20:00.002+08:00

Now that I have four, it is even harder to get them all to smile. There will surely be one who does not want to cooperate!

This is Ali and Khadijah. They look so adorable together and I know they will grow up to be the best and worst of friends. As it is, Ali is so lonely and needs a playmate. oh well! Just hope one won't be liking cars more than the other and Barbie dolls either!

This is the most recent shot of Khadijah ...

Bob -- KL Thailand Cambodia Laos Part 1

2010-07-29T11:05:00.002+08:00

Bob left on a much awaited for motorbiking trip up North yesterday. His planned route was to drive to Thailand and visit Cambodia. He hopes to make his way to Laow too and really hope that time permits it. The time constraint is because of the Ramadhan which is on Aug 10.

Over the past 2 weeks since the trip was decided, there have been numerous trips to get the BMW ready -- serviced, checked and equipped with GPS (which he said has gone kaput after only a day. I think it was due to the rain). Motorbike gear has been littered around the house the past 2 weeks too -- helmets, jackets, riding pants, gloves and other safety gear.

Come yesterday morning, the house is cleared of all the miscellaneous items. He left at about 7am. Excited of course, he smiled and waved goodbye. The only worry he had was the severe thunderstorm and rain which was predicted all along his journey. Not a good time to go but well, if he didn't go now he might never go!

He arrived in Khanom, about 60 kilometers south of SurathThani. A beautiful place he said it was with gorgeous white beaches. It rained all the way and he was drenched. They found a nice looking hotel and happily checked in but as soon as they got into the room, the electricity supply went kaput. What a day he said it was! (Can't wait to see the pixs and will update it here once he returns)

Today he is off to Hua Hin, which is about 450km from Khanom. The weather forecast is not too good but in the name of adventure, so what huh! He expects to be in Bangkok on Saturday. Have to look up the map to see where he will most likely stop on Friday.

Which I was with him, but am sure there will be other biking trips in future. Besides, can my bottom really handle being on the bike for that many hours????

Today's Thots

2010-07-29T10:57:00.003+08:00

It has been a rather busy few months with me -- expected with the little baby and with toddler Ali. There are not many free moments for myself especially when I want to sit down and put my thoughts down. This is a rare moment for me (to be able to sit down and pen a few words here) and most likely this post would only be complete hours later!

It is funny how being a mum has changed me. Not only me personally but also my outlook in life and views on relevant issues. I don't think I am entirely a different person but as your priorities change it is hard for everything else not to follow suit.

Khadijah is 2 and half months and such a beautiful baby. She definitely has a mind of her own and it is funny that at such a young age she can dictate what you should be doing! She has refused to taking the bottle. We have been tryin for almost a month now but it is still a no-no for her. She just refuses to suckle the teat and the maid has resorted to spoon feeding her the milk lest she goes hungry.

You know what that means rite? Yup! We have to take her to Europe with us come September. In a way this makes me feel much better too as I can't really bear the thought of leaving her behind. I know I would probably not enjoy the holiday as much worrying about how she is doing at home and how the maid is coping. So best to bring my little baby along and put all my worries at bay.

Am sure there will be a time when Bob and I can enjoy a holiday just the two of us. See what I mean about priorities and outlook in life? Hahahaha .... InsyaAllah, we will have a long life together and will be able to live out our fantasies of travelling every inch of this great earth together.

Latest!

2010-07-04T23:13:00.004+08:00

This is the latest picture of me and my girlfriends, taken just after I finished confinement with Khadijah. Hope our friendship lasts a lifetime. Thank you babes for being here!

Khadijah and her Mama

2010-07-04T22:53:00.001+08:00

Finally! A nice picture of Khadijah and her mother. Courtesy of my good friend Ebi!

Ali is Three

2010-07-04T22:35:00.002+08:00

My son Ali turned 3 years old today and it was nice to see him so excited when he set his eyes on his birthday cake. It was a simple day we had and an even simpler birthday event. We had tea at my mom's house.

He is absolutely crazy about Ligthning McQueen so of course that was the picture on his cake. He went WOW when I opened the cake box. His nenek got him a cake too with a 3D car in red on top. He was estatic to get two cakes with cars written all over it!

Looking at Ali, I can't believe how fast time has flown by. These past few months have been quite eventful for me, with the new baby and all. Still can't believe I have four kids now. Najihah turned 10 this year. Now that really got to me how fast time has flown by.

Ali was so adamant about eating the whole portion of Lightning McQueen which of course he has not but no one could have that portion of the cake. The slice is still on the table and I wonder how long it will be left untouched. It was really a beauty of a cake and the red and black colours really stood out. The colour didn't come out too well in the picture here though.

Well, there will be more pictures later! Happy Birthday my dear son ...

Khadijah -- 48 days old

2010-06-27T18:17:00.002+08:00

Khadijah is 48 days old today and she seems to have adjusted well to her surroundings. She seems older than she is if you ask me which can be a little scary depending on which way you look at it.

For one when she was born she immediately opened her eyes and had them open for quite awhile too. This is somewhat unusual because generally babies have them close for a few days or hours. Ali didn't open his eyes immediately.

I also think she can see quite a distance already as she gargles baby talk when you look at her. This is also her favourite position. She doesn't really like being held the usual way with her head in the crook of your hand. I want to see the world is her favourite position.

Khadijah can stay on her own for a few minutes as she amuses herself with the surroundings. She saw me walking past her in this pix and started oooing and aahhing away. Her eyes followed me steadily too.
She can smile when you talk to her sometimes. I think she has a dimple on her left cheek but am not too sure yet. Hope can tell soon when she cam smile more.

Babies can be such a joy. I can spend hours just looking at her. My bundle of joy. She looks a little like Ali here and also like her father. The face is still changing, guess we just have to wait and see who she will take after.

This was her eyes following me when I walked past. After this the cries got a little louder probably saying pick me up lah, been down here long enough. The kids love her and even Ali although there are times the streaks of jealousy comes out and he starts lashing out to try to hurt her. Probably just his way of seeking your attention cause he knows he is not supposed to "touch" her. Oh well! Sibling rivalry lasts a long time.

I Am 38

2010-06-15T10:06:00.006+08:00

Another year has come and I just celebrated my 38th birthday. My ... time sure does fly by and before I know it I will be telling you about my 39th birthday. Wish I could say I don't feel a day over 16!

It was a relatively quiet birthday. Bob and the two girls are away. Bob took them to Thailand, this time to Sikao/Pak Meng though, not Krabi. It was just Ali, Khadijah, me and two maids. It was also a rather solemn celebration as I am still in confinement and not able to go out. Aishah came over of course and so did my girlfriends. Guess that was the highlight of the birthday for me!

We had a little tea party upstairs (being in confinement I have not ventured going up and down the stairs) The picture is a little dark, taken from my phone. But the objective is to show you the spread of food. Nikki was a little late and she brought rojak buah. I couldn't eat any but everyone claimed it was delicious. Guess I must try it next time lah.

This was my only birthday wish, chocolate mud cake, from my favourite cake lady. It was YUMMY!

Ali was the centre of attraction that day, and Syahnaz too (Shake's daughter). He seemed to have the most fun seeing all the aunties around, the food and the cake of course! I got beautiful presents from my girlfriends but really, their company was present enough.
I suppose as we get older a birthday loses its novelty like when we were young(er). I have always treated a birthday as a special day. It is your day afterall, something special to you and so should be enjoyed to the max. When I was working, I would make it a point to take the day off and do all the things I liked. Be it watch a movie, most of the time go shopping, and eat what your heart desires. When the girls were past toddler stage I would take them along with me and we would do some fun things.

Last year's birthday was rather sad though for my family as we lost my aunty (my mom's sister ) to cancer. She died on my birthday in the early morning. I was in Krabi at the time and didn't make it back for the funeral. It was in JB by the way. Her name was Khadijah, and I named our 4th bundle of joy after her.

This year's birthday was also special as we celebrated it together with Aida's (June 17). Aida will be celebrating her special day in Maldives, the lucky girl! Hope she has fun diving!
All in all, it was a good 38th and the year looks good so far. My birthday wish? Allah will continue to grant us his blessings, give us good health and a long happy life and always keep us in his light. Amin.

Confinement Days

2010-06-11T11:00:00.003+08:00

Many friends and women I know hate going through confinement. It is probably the thought of not being able to go out and being well, confined to the house, that gets to you. A bad streak of cabin fever you can say. For those who do not practice confinement, they may retort and say than why do it!

There are many reasons that women who have just given birth, and even those who had miscarriages, go through a confinement period that generally lasts between 40 to 44 days. Mainly practiced in the Malay society but I think some Chinese and Indian ladies practice it too.

After being pregnant for 9 months and delivering a baby, your body has gone through many hormonal and physical changes. For one, you have expanded to sizes beyond your control. That is what you can see. What you can't see are the changes to your internal especially your womb. It is during the confinement period that your body and womb will recover from the "trauma" and get back into shape.

That is why it is very important for you to take extra good care of your health and your body during these 40 odd days. There are certain restrictions to what you can eat, drink and what you can do to your self and body. Many modern women may poo-pooh all these old wives tales but I for one believe in it. My mom always told me it is something that you won't feel now but in your old age, how you took care of yourself after childbrith will take its toll during your old age. Like effects on your knees, womb is weak, back and spine.

Take for example the rule of not having cold drinks and ice cream during confinement. Why? Cause it is cold and not good for your nerves and veins. You need warmth to ensure all the nerves and veins shrink back to size. Cold will cause them to be swollen. Also if you are breastfeeding, it is not good for the baby as it may cause colic. Cold stuff is also not advisable if wanting to lose weight.

Eating cold food, meaning food or vegies that cause wind, is also not advisable. Such as cabbage, pumpkin, some people carrots etc. Always best to stick to green leafs. Even lamb is not good as it is cold. Despite people thinking lamb is heaty but during confinement apparently it is the opposite.

Your confinement is also the time for you and baby to adjust to each other. If there are other family members it is for them to adjust too. The baby is still young and "new" and sometimes bringing them outside too early is not advisable cause of germs and "other disturbances".

As much as I hate it, I listen to these old wives tales cause I am sure they know what they are talking about and some of the tales do make sense. I even confine myself upstairs as they say going up and down the stairs not good for your womb. It is still recovering.

Today is my 30th day of confinement. How do I feel? Gets a bit boring of course especially not being able to go out (shopping!) but there are certain joys to it. Always best to make the best of it lah, look on the bright side. This month has gone by pretty fast too. It also helps I have a great confinement lady who takes good care of me when she comes with the massages, hot stone, scrubs and steam baths!

Once my 44 days are up, world! Here I come ... !

My Babies

2010-06-08T14:56:00.003+08:00

I tried my best to get a snap of all the four babies together but it was not easy especially with little Khadijag wriggling around. At the same time you have to make sure that the others are ready with smiles. That is another challenge!

So this is the best that I can do for now. More or less you have them all looking at the camera one way or another lah.

And here Khadijah is getting ever so restless!

Well, guess we have to wait to try again another time.

A Prayer

2010-06-08T14:35:00.003+08:00

There is something so magical and awesome about holding your baby. Especially when they are just a few months old. I guess it is always overwhelming to hold your child but when they are babies like this the feeling is different.

For one it is hard to imagine that this baby, this tiny person, was inside you for nine whole months, feeding from you and breathing with you. Such a miracle God has created that the baby can breathe in your womb while swimming in all that water. The miracle of life!

Holding my little Khadijah now, I can't help but have tears in my eyes. Seeing her look at you with those big brown eyes, so helpless and completely at your mercy. Then I think of the pain I went through to bring her into this world. Owwww, words alone can't describe that feeling. Only another mother would understand what it is like to go through labour, the pain mothers have to endure, the agony mothers go through. In fact, even now, when I think about what it was like giving birth to the 2 girls and Ali, I can't help but have tears in my eyes.

Writing this makes me think about all those mothers, wives or not, who abandon their babies and throw them like they were a piece of used tissue. Where is the heart in them! Did they not carry that baby in them for 9 months, did they not go through the same pain as I did to bring that baby into the world. And yet, they can dispose the baby just like that, some with umbilical cord intact and all. I just don't understand what kind of humans these are. Monsters and devils in a human body. Either that or they are really SICK in the head and heart.

The worst thing is, the problem seems to persist and the number of cases seems to be increasing everyday. At least that is the official number we know, how about cases that are not reported or babies that are not found. Like everything else, we need not find the cure for it but instead we need to eliminate the problem entirely. Malaysians always find ways to tackle the problem by finding remedies. In reality we should prevent it from happening entirely. After all, prevention is better than cure. The rising number of abandoned and dead babies goes to show the mindset of the society we live in now. Which makes me very sad. This is the world that we are raising our children in. Isn't this a scary thought.

God bless this women, or girls, who have the heart to dump their babies. Let us give them the benefit of the doubt that they are not in the right state of mind. Crazy loonies perhaps.

God bless me as a mother and please help me raise my children as best I can to become good and sane people in future. God bless my children and always keep our faith in you dear God, always bless us with your love and guidance. Amin.

Khadijah -- 25 days old

2010-06-05T12:31:00.000+08:00

What's New

2010-06-05T12:07:00.002+08:00

It has been awhile since my last posting. Yup! Have been qite busy with the new baby and adjusting to the changes. What kind of changes you say? Changes in temperament of all the three kids, especially little Ali.

He is very loving with Khadijah no doubt and he even says I love you to her. He hugs her and loves kissing her. But never ever leave her alone cause you never know when he is going to "attack"!

I also have a new project on the way. A very exciting project too. Bob and I will be going to Europe after Raya in September and am so looking forward to it. Why? Cause we are doing an "Ebi and Shu". Huh? What is that? That is where Ebi and Shu take holidays all the time, at least twice a year, just the two of them. Without the kids! So yes, finally Bob and I are going on a holiday together. Just the two of us. Can't wait.

Where we going? We are going to Paris and Italy. It is so exciting cause we are driving from Paris to Rome. We leave back for KL from Rome. I have been busy planning our route and stops as well as looking at other details.

Of course I have been wanting to go to Paris with Bob for the longest time and am really looking forward to it. It has been my dream/wish for it since we got married. And finally 12 years later, InsyaAllah, it will become a reality.

And the drive to Italy will be a real experience too. We have planned several stops along the way including must stops like Bologna (Bob wants to make a beeline for Ducati) and we plan to watch the SBK bike race in Imola), Florence (Prada factory outlet) and Rome (have to get some historical sights in this trip too lah).

Aahhhh .....

Hehehehe ....

Oh yes ... do I hear you ask what about Khadijah? Well, hate it as I must, I will have to leave her. Let's just hope I don't chicken out or cry everynight whilst I am away.

Will update you more. Khadijah is doing great by the way. We are 26 days old today.

Introducing .... Baby No 4

2010-05-14T12:15:00.002+08:00

My fourth bundle of joy arrived on May 10 2010 at 7.51pm. Her name is Khadijah and she weighed 3.47kg. Alhamdulillah it was an easy birth although the induction process caused some pretty strong (and painful) contractions.

The whole first week of May I was experiencing light contractions or some doctors call it Braxton Hicks so I waited patiently for the labour process to begin but it never did. Najihah was the only baby where I experienced a natural labour process and so I thot' it could be the same for this baby. But after a week it still did not take place and I knew at my next check the doctor would ask me to take the baby out.

Therefore might as well choose a date and we chose May 10, a day after Mother's Day and a nice number too. 10/5/10. Besides, I was ready than ever to have her born.

Introducing ..... Khadijah:

She is today 4 days old and what is she like so far? She has quite a temper, rather impatient little baby. I have not seen her smile only cry. And when she cries she does not start slow like babies usually do but hits the max level immediately.

She finally fell asleep here after a fitful of crying for milk. She is hungry most of the time for milk. How are the kids taking her? They love her, even Ali, who starts well with kissing and stroking her head lovingly befor he goes for the prodding and pressing. NOTE: DO NOT LEAVE ALI ALONE WITH KHADIJAH.

I have not taken many pictures of Khadijah yet. We are still setlling in and getting used to a rather topsy turvy sleep pattern. As my friends say, sleepless in Ara has begun.

My friends dropped by the hospital and this is Zaidah who last held her own baby 7 years ago. In this picture Khadijah looks so much like Ali. She looks different everyday and guess we have to wait and see who she looks after but she has a bit of each of her siblings in her.

These are all her godmothers! Zaidah, Hazleen, Shikin, Sherie and Jami. I think there are more godmothers.

Please stay tuned for more pictures.

AUTOGRAPH --- You Got???

2010-04-16T16:13:00.004+08:00

Look what I got!!! My friend Anis was at the recent F1 race early this month and she met him. Yes the great King himself, SHAH RUKH KHAN!!!

She got a picture of him and a signed autograph for herself. And one for me as well!!!!

It is not very big here lah but I have it. Well too bad I didn't get to physically see him in the flesh but oh well, a signed autograph is more than I could hope for. Thank you so much Anis!

I am sure a day will come when I get to see him in the flesh .....

My Aishah

2010-04-16T15:38:00.002+08:00

This is a story about my younger sister Aishah. She is 10 years younger than me, yes a very wide age gap indeed but she is my best friend and very, very dear to me. We don't live in the same house anymore since I got married but we are still as close as ever.

She is a sound engineer with Hot FM and works very hard I must say. I don't get to see her everyday like when she was studying but knowing that she is just a phone call or an SMS away is always a comfort.

Aishah is a very independent person and very strong headed too. After she returned from her studies in Melbourne she got an idea in her head that wants to live there. With this idea she saved money (she is quite good at that I must add), and has been working towards that goal.

About a month ago, she got news that she finally got her PR which she applied for some few years back. She did not get it for Melbourne but for Adelaide which suits her just fine.

Of course I am happy for her as this is what she wants for herself and what she has been working for since she started work. But honestly, I hate to see her go. I feel like I will lose a very very big part of me. I know, it is not like I will never see her again or we can't go visit or she won't come back for a holiday. I also know there is such sophisticated technology these days -- the internet, Skype, YM and what not.

But it is not the same. It is knowing that she is far away and it is not as easy as saying Please come over and she will be at my doorstep. Sigh! I wonder how my mother feels. Sad too I guess. Of course we will worry, that is what people who love each other do right? Worry ....

These photos were from my recent Baby Shower. Aishah brought me to the secret location and as you can see I was overwhelmed with feelings. She has been here with me through many moments in my life, and I know she will be here for many more to come. But when you are far away how much can you actually physically share. I am sorry if I am being too emotional here (my friends say it's the hormones) but this is my little sister we are talking about. My shoulder to cry on and my shoulder for laughter too. Not only that, she is my little miss fix it round the house too (hehehehe).

I wish you well Aishah, in all your future undertakings. And you know that I will be here for you no matter what. I will miss you terribly and only you know how I feel without having you near me. You are my friend, my confidante, my all and of course my little sister...

My Baby Shower

2010-03-29T08:31:00.007+08:00

I am now well into my 35th week. Of course am anxiously counting the days and weeks for when the baby wants to come out. Only because am getting rather heavy. I guess being at this stage of pregnancy is the best time for a baby shower.

I have never experienced a baby shower before. Have only read about it in books and magazines, as well as seen it on Hollywood movies. My friends and I had organised one for the first time last year for our good friend Elona who lives in Jakarta.

This time it was my turn for a baby shower and what a wonderful surprise it was indeed. First of all, you can probably guess the sex of the baby from all the pictures so there is no hiding that anymore! I was only told to keep the day free and roughly the time I was required to be available.

Shake, the mastermind, had planned all the details with her committee (whoever you are, good job!!) and with Aishah as she was designated driver for me. Aishah said before going to Hazleen's house (I was informed the event would be held there) she had to go see her agent in KL first.

The best part is when we got there to the Hotel, I told Aishah I would wait in the car. She insisted I come down and we went up to the poolside. Just as I was about to ask her what is your agent doing at the pool side, I was greeted by SURPRISE from my friends!!! As I hugged and kised my friends, of course lah tears popped from my eyes. Such an emo I am!

They dressed me up in a banner that said "Mom To Be" and pinned a corsage on me made up of a cute baby shoe and pacifier. Really Shake .... the details you go into. I officically appoint you EVENT MANAGER for all occasions!

Everyone was just as excited as me I think! We had a good laugh at how surprised I was and quickly got into the groove of things.

Beautiful pink and purple cupcakes. It looked so pretty nobody really wanted to touch them but when we finally did, it was delicious.

This is me with all my hostess'. Apparently not all invited could come. Sorry I missed all my other good friends including my two BFF's who could not make it. It was a really memorable occasion and I want to take this opportunity to say thank you from the very bottom of my heart. I really appreciate it.

This is the main table. Love the details taken. Even the pink and white fork and spooons did not go unnoticed. Like a little girl's dream come true.

The theme was pink and white so everyone was dressed to it too. This is Sherie and Elo ...

Jami and Hazleen ....

Sophie and Suzana ...

Zaidah and Rafiza ....

Oh ya! We had champagne too .... it was HALAL ok! And tasted fuzzy. A cross between apple and grape juice.

We had games. This was fun. They were blindfolded and had to guess where my tummy was.

There were more games it seems but we got tired faster than expected so we cut out the last 2 games.

This is them guessing where my tummy was. Some even pointed at my face and shoulders. What a laugh!

The main table ... pretty isn't it!

The winners of the first game.

Another one for the album! Love the theme colour. Guess it is also no secret my favourite colour is pink.

They showered me and the baby with presents. Thank you for all the lovely gifts!

This is a nice shot. The poolside is an open area and when we took this shot the sun decided to come out. The ceiling had bamboo sticks lined up thus the reflection.

They made me give a speech which I did not want to cause I knew I would end up in tears. I managed to say thank you, wipe my eyes and try bestest to go on. I don't know what I said now, can't remember. But I hope you all know how much I appreciate the surprise and efforts you all took. It will be an occasion I will remember fondly always.

Can you imagine, there were even doorgifts! It was coin banks with pacifiers stuck to it!

And we went home with a photo frame on a giraffe stuff toy!

Pretty in Pink!

All in all, I had a great and wonderful time. Thank you to everyone of you for such a memorable occasion. I hope to one day do something as nice, if not nicer, for anyone of you in future. Love you all ...

My name is Khan

2010-03-23T09:53:00.004+08:00

I watched the movie and enjoyed it. It was a much awaited movie for me as it has been a whole year since the King came out with a new movie and it was good. A very different kind of Hindi movie and didn't have the usual love sequels. It was also nice to see him acting along side Kajol. Always thought they worked well together.

A movie that takes viewers on a journey of love: Rizwan Khan's journey.Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh Khan) suufers from a kind of Autism, which makes him very different from other people. While some find him endearing, others think he is rude. He meets a single mom, Mandira (Kajol) and ...

Sounds like the usual plot but now. It was like a cross between Forrest Gump and Rain Man. It did have the expected elements of rain but no tree dancing and no train also. So that does not make it a regular Hindi movie rite!

And of course SRK is as good looking as ever, even in his 40s. Oh yes! Aishah was in New Delhi recently and she bought me the coffee table book ... SRK pages after pages of him. Ahhhhhh ......

Kok Lanta During Dusk

2010-03-23T08:02:00.003+08:00

We found this really nice restaurant at the tip of Kok Lanta. It was ideally called Beautiful Restaurant and the sign claimed you will enjoy the most scenic view ever. True enough it was beautiful and the breeze was excellent.

Some of the dining tables had their own little secluded spots, good for private dining! I avoided those spaces though cause they were too near the sea and knowing little Ali, he would be climbing over to see what's on the other side.

Thie walkway from the entrance to the back where the dining area was is littered with trees and paper lanterns. Quite a distance but gives you a sense of anticipation of what is ahead.

The trees dotting the walkway is so typical of Thailand where no tree is chopped down. Why can't Malaysians cherish trees this way? There was an architecture and landscape course in Krabi which my friend attended and he said they taught them how to replant a tree. No tools or machines required. If Thai's can do that, why can't we?!?!?

This is the entrance to the restaurant ... looked really quaint from the outside. Most interesting was the drive to this part of Kok Lanta actually. It was a little fishing village with wooden street lights. Instead of normal street lights as we know it, these street lights had little lanterns.

Reminds me a lot of China town but from what we saw it seemed to have a good mix of Muslims and Chinese in the area. There were a few tourists mingling about at the fishing village and we learnt later they were staying there under a homestay holiday. Even in this remote part of Kok Lanta, the locals know and understand fully the benefits and concepts of a homestay programme.

The more I see of Thailand the more I like it. And this is only some parts of it. Even our drive to Chieng Mai in 2008did not take me to all parts of Thailand. There is still so much of it I haven't seen. Can't wait!

Kok Lanta in March

2010-03-21T13:07:00.004+08:00

We just returned from a week in Thailand. It was hot and humid but the kids had a ball of a time going in and out of the pool and running on the beach. In addition to nights spent in Aonang, Krabi, we stayed a night in Kok Lanta.

Kok Lanta is about an hours drive from Krabi and an hour from the Krabi airport. There are three parts to Kok Lanta: the mainland, Kok Lanta Noi and Kok Lanta Yai (hope I got that right). To get to the other two parts you have to take a short ferry ride which the kids enjoyed tremendously. Tried to upload some of the pixs here but it seems to be failing all the time and I am tired of trying.

We stayed at Twin Bay Resort, there are many resorts, small hotels and huge 7 or 8 star resorts to choose from but we didn't want to waste time looking so we chose the most decent looking and priced one we could find straight away.

The kids of course were pretty much the judges of where we should stay and they said yes to the first pool they saw. The beach was pretty awesome too, clean, pristine and pretty much untouched. Actually pretty much of Kok Lanta is untouched but before long it will be as busy as Aonang. Just a matter of time. As it is, the place was simply crawling with tourists it being trge high season and all. During the high season, rates of places to stay are pretty steep too.

This is a picture of sandy white beaches and clear crystal waters of a beach stretch in Kok Lanta. Pretty much all of the beaches look this serene. Such a pretty picture isn't it.

In the evening we took a drive to the very end of Kok Lanta and this was what we found, a fishing village that was as remote and untouched as possible. Looking at the villagers and the simple life they lead simply melts your own problems away. Being there made your problems look so minute! Literally at the edge of the world ...

We found a Beautiful Restaurant which served fresh seafood (but of course). The ambience was pretty cool too with paper lanterns and the sea breeze lulling you to sleep. We ordered black pepper and garlice squid (delicious!) and sea salt prawns. I forgot to take pictures of the dishes, was to busy eating and when I remembered plates were cleared.

Satiated stomachs here and too bad we had a rather long drive back to the hotel cause the sea breeze of Andaman was making it difficult for us to open our eyes!

This is the beach front from the place we stayed. The sky was clear that night and you could see almost every star in the sky. At night, the restaurant lets you dine on the beach, very romantic!

The chalets .....

There are more pictures of course and will get to them soon....

BEEN AGES

2010-03-09T10:09:00.003+08:00

My goodness! I just realised that my last post was written in January. What have I been doing since then? Getting sucked into the routine of everyday life I guess. Once school started I just became plain lazy to do much.

An update for those who are interested: I am 32 weeks into my pregnancy. Yea ... not long more to go some would say but it still seems so far off somehow. When you see the figure 32 weeks, you know its only 8 weeks aways but when you say that's 2 more months, oh no! Now that sounds like so far off.

The girls are having their first exam for the term this week. It actually started last week and continues this week. Of course we are waiting for the end of the week cause it will be a week's off from school, Kafa, tuition and what not.

Where are we going for the school holidays? Afraid to say, we are planning to go to Krabi. AGAIN? Did I hear you say that. Oh well. It is a nice place to do nothing and just chill. Besides, Bob has had a very hectic 5 months and I know he wants to do absolutely nothing. Which I hope he can considering he can't even enjoy his Sunday cause he is so used to being busy and on the go.

I don't think I can withstand a longer journey and I know I can still get on board an airplane but there will be too much to pack and prepare for 5 of us. Getting in a car is so much easier as you can dump in it as much as you can. Milk bottles and thermos and pull up pants and what not for Ali. And at least going to Krabi I am allowed to stop as much as I want.

Am very much looking forward to the glorious food. Delicious tom yam and superlicious manggo with sticky rice. Awesome!! I will definitely bring back some upon request just hope it will withstand the journey.

Hope all of you are doing well!

Windows of the World in Shenzhen

2010-01-24T07:29:00.003+08:00

Check out these pictures and tell me if it doesn't look like the real thing! If I told you I went to see these great sights, without a doubt I know you would believe me.

Below is the great Taj Mahal of India ...

This is Borobodur. Look at the efforts that went into the detailing of this exquisite building ....

Oh yes .... I was in Paris too at the Champs Elysee.... Hahahahaha! These are some of the few sights and Shenzhen's Window of the World. Magnificent isn't it. Such efforts the Chinese have gone through to give you a piece of the world and every possible sight of that country in their huge country.

Shenzhen's Window of the World is a fantastic replica park situated at the Overseas Chinese Town. Here you can see vivid replicas of the world's wonders, historical heritages and famous scenic sites. The entire masterpiece is built at ratios of 1:1, 1:5 or 1:15.

Within one day, you can visit many reproductions of famous sites from different countries. For example you can find the Mahamuni Pagoda of Mandalay and the Angkor Wat of Cambodia here. European architectural splendors, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Ancient Athens, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Tower of London will carry you back to the cradle of classical European culture. When you tour the miniature Roman Colosseum, you might notice a cruel and bloody scene. Enjoy the picturesque scenery as you take a gondola along the canals of Venice. Mysterious Africa is always full of life and vigor. Here, the Pyramids and the Sphinx are quietly waiting for your visit. After traveling through typical African hamlets, you come to the Oceania. Sydney Opera House, which boasts a unique style, is a landmark not only of Australia but also the whole Oceania. Looking from a distance, it looks like a luminous pearl on the vast expanse of blue sea water. The rumbles of Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon lead you
For the Beer Fetival to the America, a young continent. These two natural wonders are awe-inspiring. Moving on to modern civilization, in the replica of Manhattan you will see rows of towering skyscrapers. No wonder they say the rhythm of life speeds up here.

Visiting during a festival time is another way to experience this replica park. Annually the park holds the Cherry Festival and the Indian Cultural Week. During the Cherry Festival, wandering in the cherry garden of Japan and taking a cup of tea will refresh you. Window of the World runs many programs during holiday periods too. In the summer holiday, the International Beer Festival is a big tourist attraction. Probably, the Pop Music Festival is the favorite of young people. This is held on China's National Day. In December, Santa Claus welcomes New Year's approach. Following this the World Dance and Singing Gala is held during the Spring Festival.

Taking part in the entertainment activities complements your travel plan.
Niagara Waterfall in WOWThere are a number of adventure trips for you to choose from. For example, test your courage by navigating the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. In the Archery Field, tourists may follow the ways of North American Indians and learn to hunt prey in the lush woods. Even more exciting is to traverse the primitive tropical forest in a cable car. Skiing in a subtropical city might sound strange, but the Indoor Alpine Ski Run in Shenzhen Window of the World offers you four thousand square meters (about 6,200,012 square feet) of indoor piste to ski.

This is the sight I would love to visit most, the top of my list you might say, the Eiffel Tower in Paris. No one would know any better just looking at this picture. Around the area of Paris, the theme park has also copied the Galleries Lafayette and the surrounding gardens. They have little shops you can browse through and cafes to enjoy a cup of coffee. I was there during winter which is considered off peak season so the shops were all close. Therefore I can't vouch for the croissonts or hot chocolate!

This is the Great Athens .... they even did landscaping just like the real thing. Many people say, who else but the Chinese will give you exact replicas! Hahaha .... A must see place if ever you are in Shenzhen!

Shenzhen and Hong Kong in Dec 2009

2010-01-22T05:16:00.004+08:00

I had the opportunity to go to Hong Kong last December with my sis in law, Ayu. She had some work to do and I was invited to tag along. It was just me of course no kiddies. We were in Shenzhen, China first for 3 nights and spent a night in Hong Kong. I don't have any pictures of Hong Kong because I only managed to get a memory card for my pocket camera later. All the pixs are with Ayu and I will downloand them once, if, I get them from her.

Shenzhen is about a 45 min drive from Hong Kong. It was definitely not what I expected. It reminds me of New York and also Singapore. There are nothing but high rise buildings there. It is just building after building and busy streets. Just like New York. Despite the cold winter wind, people were everywhere rushing here and there.

We managed to get some shopping done there ( I would probably only go back for the material, bought all the Chinese silk I could) and the food. They took us to this Muslim restaurant and the lamb was fantastic! Cooked several ways Mongolian style but all tasty as ever. In fact, that was all I seemed to want to eat anyways. With the lamb dishes on the table I didn't even look at the oher dishes.

We also managed some sightseeing and saw Windows of the World and some cultural shows. Very interesting ... it was like the whole of China in an hour. Windows of the World was really awesome, they had a replica of every possible world landmark in a huge theme park like area. Takes about 3 hours for you to walk the whole park. You have the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, even Jesus Christ on top of that hill in Brazil, Mount Rushmore, pyramids, windmills in Holland, Taj Mahal and even the entire Borrobodur, in greatest detail too. I have some great pixs from there and will share them with you soonest!

What was Hong Kong like? Dirtier compared to Shenzhen for one and congested. It's like being in Bukit Bintang on a larger scale. We were taken to Harbour City, the largest and longest mall, it is like 4 malls in one entire stretch. Of course I didn't and couldn't walk the entire stretch but managed to get some retail therapy done. We were also taken to the Ladies Market which is Petaling Street for us. An experience no doubt.

This is me with Bruce Lee on the Avenue of Stars. We stayed at the Royal Garden Hotel in Kowloon Hong Kong which is right opposite this walk. So lucky we caugh the Star Cruise ship at the back too!

That is the skyline of Hong Kong and that tower, forgot its name, is the tallest in Hong Kong. It was extremely foggy when we were there. In fact so was Shenzhen. Must be because it is winter. Reminded me of the gloomy days in winterland Kalamazoo when I was studying.

That is me at the Ladies Market. We got a whole load of souvenirs here. The fake handbags and shoes were in abundance here, you actually have catalogues to choose from!

For dinner in Hong Kong they took us to this Kebab place. I had this really fantastic Lamb Pizza, it was extremely delicious!

When we arrived in Hong Kong we took some time to walk the streets and it was very much like Singapore. This picture was taken from the mosque where we stopped for Zohor. Can't remember the street but it was comforting to see a fairly big sized mosque on such a busy street. Traffic of cars, buses and people did not seem to stop at all. We passed by the same way at about 10pm and it was the same scene.

I would not mind going to Hong Kong again as I did not get to see all the sights. As for shopping, yes there are more choices there and all you need is money! Lots of it too!!!!

Khalif and Ali at Play

2010-01-22T05:04:00.002+08:00

My nephew Khalif celebrated his first birthday mid of Dec 2009. He is growing so well and is oh so cute. The girls love him and simple dote on him. Ali seems to like the idea of having him around too but I think it won't be long till they start having boy squabbles together. As it is they already fight for the same toys.

Khalif came over for a romp with the kids some time ago and Ali was trying to be the big brother, showing Khalif how to play. Ya, by trying to take everything away from him!

At this time Khalif is a fast crawler and can take baby steps holding on to his parents' hands. I have not seen him since ( ya, everyone has a busy parenting schedule) but I hope he can walk now.

He looks so much Like Murni, my sis in law, but has my brother's dimpled smile. That feature makes Ali and Khalif look so much alike. Guess it will only be the dimples to say they are cousins.

I also can't wait to hear Khaif speak. His first words are deep grunts, all that baby sound! He seems to have a rather deep voice unlike Ali's high pitches. I think if Khalif spent more time with the girls he will be talking in no time. I noticed that Ali's speech has improved tremendously and I am sure being around with his sisters helps very much with his development. Of course he has also picked up words I don't really like for example "silly" and it is so much trouble to kick him off the habit. And they fight, especially Nadiah and Ali. I thought the six year age gap would automatically cease that activity but I was wrong. Guess siblings will be siblings. Wait till No 4 comes, then we can see some different action.

2010 Update

2010-01-22T04:47:00.002+08:00

It has been ages since I have "visited" my own blog! Honestly, I have been just lazy. And there also has been a bad bout of "I don't feel like writing anything". However, all of a sudden there was a need to pen a few words down and I will try to keep you up to speed with what has been going on.

It has been a rather "diferent" past few months. I am well into my 6th month of pregnancy and I wish it could say it has been a breeze but hardly. As expected, things should have gotten better after the first trimester but NOT. Many of my friends blame it on the age, it gets harder and there are more uncomfortable moments when you decide to get pregnant late in your 30s.

I admit I have not been as comfortable as I was at this stage of my pregnancy, unlike the other 3. The worst, or is ot good part, is that I don't eat as well as I should be. There are times where I just don't feel like eating and I am quite happy to just go hungry. Not that there is no food in the house, far be it from that. I just don't feel like it! Nothing seems palatable.

My last check up was just after the New Year and thank God, baby is doing well. Doctor did say that the baby is normal sized, not too big and not too small but I myself sense that it will be the smallest of the three. As long as the baby is well and healthy, that is all that matters. In the meantime, I promise myself that I will try my bestest to eat as well as I can.

Other than the pregnancy, other good things that have been happening is school of course. Najihah is in Standard 4 and Nadiah is in Standard 3 this year. The good thing, both are in the morning session and I don't do that crazy running around with two sessions as I did last year. It is definitely not as tiring and actually leaves me time to think about even going out for lunch with my friends.

Initially I worried about Nadiah risi ng early, she is generally a late riser, she just loves to sleep. But she has adjusted very well, and I think she welcomes the sense of having more hours in the day. Both of their tuition classes are in the afternoon and so are their extra agama classes KAFA.

However, I am in a dilemma if I should continue with their piano classes. Advancement seems rather slow and they themselves have said time and again they are not interested and have asked to stopped. I remember how my mom used to force me to take piano classes and I lasted until Grade 5. I always promised myself I would try hardest not to turn out like my mom so should I let them keep at it or let them quit? I just worry that they have no avenue to vent out at and always felt that music is a good way to express one self. If there was an alternative I would not mind but they have not shown any interest to pursue other things.

Ah well ... the dilemma of trying to be a good parent! It has been a few months of not working and I am enjoying this domestic engineer stint! It can get a little taxing and stressful with the kids alone but there are always opportunities for a mom's time out albeit facial, friends or other recreational activities. All in all, I have enjoyed it and will continue to enjoy it. No complaints whatsoever. And when Baby comes, insyaAllah, there will definitely not be any time to spare.

Safe to safe we are looking forward to Baby no 4. The doctor gave me May 8 by the way. God Speed ....

Latest on Baby Blues

2009-11-18T12:20:00.002+08:00

Alhamdullillah I have passed the first trimester and am going into my 4th month. The morning sickness which starts in the morning and ends when I lay my head down at night has subsided and I only suffer in the late afternoons to nights now.

Of course that is on a good day! On other days, it just stays bad the whole day. But Sherie commented that I don't look as sickly as before and generally I do feel a bit better. I am also up for travelling now I guess and it will start with the exodus balik kampung next week.

School holidays start next week althought there are already days "but we do nothing in school all day so we would rather stay home". Suits me just fine cause I don't have to worry about shuttling them back and forth.

This is the last scan of the baby at 12 weeks and 6 days. The good doctor pointed out the head, a nose and arms and legs.
My next check up is just around the corner, before we balik kampung. Oh ya! We are also going to Krabi after Raya Haji. Can't wait ... just for a change of scenery and I can taste the sweet chocolate and banana pancakes!

The Coming of the End

2009-11-11T15:00:00.002+08:00

Good to know the school holidays are just around the corner. Honestly, I cannot wait. I like waking up in the mornings, it's good gto be up and about early but I don't like having to rush. As in, get breakfast, get your homework, do your hair, get your socks and what not. And having to make sure they get to school on time. Throughout the day having to look at the clock to make sure I am not late to pick them up or to send the second one to school.

With the start of these holidays also means the end of the two session school year for me. Right now I have one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Next year both will be in the morning session. Which would be less strenuous on me but more agonising in the mornings as Nadiah is a late riser.

Whatever it is, I am looking forward to the end of this term. I feel very drained and I guess going through my first trimester was not very easy either. I am going into my fourth month now but don't feel much better than I did last month. When I was expecting Ali, I was like this too, sick most of the time. Maybe its a boy then, is the easy conclusion!

I should actually write a journal about going through a pregnancy. Thought about it a few times but as you can see nothing has materialised out of it. Will keep toying with the idea and see how it goes. Sometimes I just don't feel like doing anything!

1st Scan

2009-10-22T14:31:00.002+08:00

It has been a long time since I have opened this site .. bit too long I think but simply because I have been feeling so out of it. It would be simple if it was just morning sickness but alas I am sick throughout the day. Not sick like vomitting but sick like mouth taste terrible etc.

I have been meaning to put this scan pix up and finally have got around to doing it today. This scan was taken when the baby was about 9 weeks old which was about 3 to 4 weeks ago which mans I should be about my 12th week now.

My next check up will be in 2 weeks time and hopefully all will be well. I am eating as best I can and trying to get as much rest as I can. The truth is all I wanna do is sleep anyways ...have to push myself to get out of bed and to do much of anything else either.

I don't remember being this bad when I was carrying Ali but maybe because I was working and had to go to work. I also had to do the kids going to school thing. Now I am lucky cause Bob has a driver and he is able to do the transporting to school whenever he is free. That helps a lot especially since am so out of it.

Well, will keep you posted on the next check up!

Tooth Fairy Got Caught

2009-10-01T08:07:00.002+08:00

The tooth fairy has been found out! I don't know what Nadiah was doing in my room but she found a tooth which means I have been busted!! She asked me what is this tooth doing here and I said ...maybe it dropped but huh .... not good enough an explanation so I just laughed.

They didn't seem that surprised but maybe just a little disappointed that their fairy tale was busted so soon. Well, it was good while it lasted .....

Khalif Sucks his Thumb!

2009-09-28T14:33:00.002+08:00

My nephew Khalif is nine months and oh so cute ... he has taken to jumping up and down and loves it! Very much like his father at that age. He has such soft brown hair and soft white skin and his legs .... oooo ... little drumsticks!

This is Khalif and Murni, and he is such an attention seeker, always looking for his mommy now. He can sit up pretty steadily and he has even taken to rushing for the same toys Ali is holding. I can't wait to see him moving around on his tiny feet.

And the nost shocking thing is, he sucks his thumb just like Nadiah! After every feed, he will stick his thumb in his mouth and suckle a little before he starts jumping again! Makes me wonder where all this thumb sucking started in the first place.

The dilemma I am faced with now is how to get her to stop! She will be 8 in a few weeks time and still loves her thumb so much! Murni even scared me with a story of her sis who sucked until her teen years. Yikes!

Najihah couldn't get enough of Khalif, she finds him so adorable and cute. Bet she can't wait till he is a little bigger and she can play with him. By that time, she will have her little own baby brother or sister too. Hmmmm ...

In Life and Death

2009-09-27T13:11:00.002+08:00

Today is the 8th day of Syawal and many things have happened this week. First and foremost, it has been a very hot week! Ramadhan was much cooler with lotsa rain and cloudy skies.

The saddest news is that my uncle passed away yesterday morning. He had a cardiac arrest about one half months ago and was recovering in IJN before they moved him to GH. After awhile, the doctors said there was no more hope and he was taken off the life support machine. Yesterday he went away peacefully and I think the pace was good as all family members were prepared. But prepared as you are there is no way to express the loss felt.

When I was carrying Ali, 3 years ago, my youngest uncle died of cancer. My aunty also passed away on my birthday this year with cancer. This time that my uncle passed away I am carrying another child. There is the relation between life and death. God giveth some and he taketh some.

It was a sad occasion at the graveyard yesterday. All the relatives were wishing each other Selamat Hari Raya amidst tears and looks of sorrow. Everyone was gathered to pay their last respects to my uncle and bid his family well but in the end, the man is left all alone in that grave, waiting for the angels to come.

Death is a very sad thing ... but it is inevitable. It comes no matter what, it is just a matter of when. Only God knows that. They say we must celebrate life when we have it and at the same time religion teaches us to work for the hereafter as that is permanent. It is up to each of us to find that balance and make sure that our life here does not forget what comes after, which is the ultimate.

Even in death we celebrate the living, We visit and attend tahlils to extend our prayers to the dead and to extend our hands to the living in hopes that their burden of losing that loved one is eased. I have suffered losses although not of immediate family but of uncles and aunties and of course grandparents.

I cannot imagine what it would be like to lose my mother or father or anyone else closer to me. I cannot imagine how I would take it and accept it. Life deals us the cards and it is up to us to take those cards and play them. To make them work the best for us. God has given us this life and it is up to us to play it the best way we have been taught. I hope and pray we are playing our cards right.

Hari Raya is here ....

2009-09-18T12:50:00.002+08:00

The Hari Raya balik kampung exodus began last night for many. Today will be more hectic I assume since they closed schools today to allow parents ample time to bring their families home for the Eid holidays. I expect that Saturday will be even more terrible on the highways with families rushing home at the last minute.

What about me then? Which part of the crazy team am I? Well, I am here in my room in Ara Damansara. I confirmed that I was expecting early this week then a few days later had some light spots. Told my gynae about it and she suggested bed rest. We cancelled our balik kampung plans and will most likely spend Hari Raya here. This will be a first for me as I have never ever spent it here. Before I got married it was always in Taiping and after marriage it was in Bukit Mertajam.

I have always wanted to spend it here, cause I heard that the city is really nice and quiet so I guess this is my chance. Of course my mom and mom-in-law are sad that we can't come back. They want to see their grandkids more than anything of course. Well, some things will just have to wait!

In a way, it would be good to be here. For a change and don't have to go through that stress of making everyone happy by being at so many places at one time. Hahahaa ... know what I mean. This way, no party can get upset with you. Bob was saying that he may take the kids back just for a day to Bukit Mertajam. Oh well ... now that means I will be here all alone. Wonder what that would be like! GULP!

I know some of my friends will be spending Raya here. I even have cousins who spend Raya here if I am up for bed rest how do I get around then. Hmmmm ....

Anyways, Selamat Hari Raya to all my friends. Minta maaf zahir dan batin....

Cookies for Fun

2009-09-14T13:30:00.002+08:00

I finally found the energy to make cookies with the kids and what an experience it was with little Ali. He was literally all over the place. But amidst shouts of "Ali, NO!" we managed to bake 3 types of cookies. The first 2 taste mych better than the last one I baked. The last one I baked was taken from a Malay recipe book ... you know how every cookie just taste the same with only a small variation in between ...well, that's how it tasted I guess.

The girsl had a fantastic fun time though and I am glad. After all, it was an activity for the kids too. Bob took some great shots of Ali making a mess but have not had time to download it yet. He was eating all the chocolate chips instead of putting it as decor for the cookies! And he insisted the pump to cream out the cookies was a gun of some sort. It was quite funny to see him threatening us with it.

Exactly 5 days left of the Ramadhan and it is taking its toll on me. Am tired but for a reason (shhhhh..., will tell at another time). The two girls have not missed a day yet except for Nadiah today. She was getting ready for school and insisted that she was hungry. So of course I let her break fast and off she went to school happily.

Let's see how the remainder of the days go ...

Masks

2009-09-09T22:13:00.002+08:00

It has been a good week with the kids being away from school. At least I don't have to worry about H1N1 all the time and making sure they have those surgical masks on their faces all the time.

This evening I saw the Health Minister on TV during the news hour and he was speaking about H1N1 but you know what! I just could not concentrate on what he was saying. He was talking so slowly and his droning on and on was ... well, boring! Which is sad because I am sure he had important points to get across. Not sure if it was him or what but maybe reporters, TV ones especially, should take more effort when they are editing. Instead of showing every word the man is saying, what is wrong with giving key words or shorter excerpts. Like a rap! hahahaha ....*wink*

Am just wondering what is the best way to make it more appealing to listeners thats all. This may also count as ranting. Guess I will just have to read the papers about what he said tomorrow.

This morning's newspapers was even more sad, there was an article on H1N1 and I haven't seen one of importance in awhile. This was quoting our DPM and he was saying it is up to schools if they want to ask kids to wear masks or not. Is that really the news??? DUH! I am sorry if the reporter and the editor who thought that was the news feel offended. But honestly, is that really what parents want to hear!

WHO has called this a world pandemic and they worry about wearing masks or not. I mean I know that is an important deterrent (some doctors say otherwise) but isn't there more earth shattering news to share!

Cest La Vie ...

Holiday Again ...

2009-09-04T10:34:00.002+08:00

I had a pleasant surprise yesterday when the girls told me there will be no school next week except for Friday because of the UPSR exams. Monday is a public holiday cause of Nuzul Quran and it will continue to Thursday until after the exams. They only go back to school on Friday. And that would only be for a week as the week after that would be the Hari Raya break already.

Which means these past few weeks and the whole of September is filled with holidays. Yeaaahhhh! Just too bad we can't go off for a holiday because it's the fasting month. But at least the girls won't be too tired cause they are fasting and they have no school. The other question is, how do I fill up their time when they have those few days break!

It would be a good time to get started on the cookies for one. The girls can be quite helpful in the kitchen until of course they get bored and start making a mess. Ali will be of help too as he loves messing around in the kitchen. Don't know how much of the cookies I can actually get going with all these extra "help" but it's worth a try. Besides, it's the fun in it all!

So here is to a great weekend and a better week ahead. See if we could actually go off for a holiday we would have 6 whole days. DAMN!

Good luck to my nephew and others sitting for the UPSR. All the best ...!

Doing Well

2009-09-03T07:59:00.002+08:00

It has been a rather hectic week since school started but am glad for the busy schedule cause time flies by faster. From the time I get up for sahur till it's time for break fast, time is like a whirlwind.

Am very proud of my two girls cause they have not missed a day yet of the Ramadhan. Of course the first few days were harder but by the 13th day today, they have more or less gotten used to it. I suppose this is made easier by the fact they had the school holidays to start fasting.

I was a bit worried when school started on Tuesday that they would not be able to take it but so far so good. Of course there are desperate cries of I am so hungry and oh so thirsty but they have not broken half day or anything.

The school week these past two months is short too! A week before the school holidays last month, school closed for a week due to cases of H1N1 which means the girls had 2 weeks off. This Monday is a public holiday and it will continue to Thursday because of the UPSR exams.
Than it would be a week of school only before the one week Hari Raya Aidil Fitri break.

The good thing about all these breaks is that the girls can fast easily without too many cries of hunger and thirst as they will not be too tired from school. Must also say that God has blessed us with cool weather so far this Ramadhan, making it easier on his Ummah!

Desserts Galore ...

2009-08-28T13:47:00.004+08:00

I had break fast with my mom last night and came back very full, as usual lah when you eat at your mom's place! Last night's event was made more memorable cause two of my aunties and two of my cousins came too.

We had Mak Itam and her daughter Sarah as well as her grandkids Ameera and Kristen. We had Mak Ngah and her second child Kak Hani. Kak Hani stays in London but is here cause her father had a cardiac arrest two weeks ago and is still in hospital. That's a different story.

She gave us some good news yesterday: she is coming back for good next year. She says she has had enough of living in England and wants to be with family. Infact, since her brother (who was staying in London too) got married last year and moved here, all her siblings are here.

My kids playing with their cousins after their stomachs were all full ...

This was dessert ... my aunty bought them from a place called Baker's in Ampang ... simply delicious! Aishah and I helped my mom with the bread and butter pudding. Now that I am writing this I am thinking non-stop about it! Sigh ... the falls of fasting..

It was nice to just sit and chat and eat ... share old stories and tell what's going on in our lives. It is not easy to get the whole clan together but this little dose is good enough. On the table in the big jar is the trifle my mom made, also very delicious. You are probably saying this is all dessert, what did we eat for break fast. Hahahaha ... break fast was good lah but never as good as the desserts!

From left: Mak Itam, Mak Ngah and Kak Hani. They were full but waiting for desserts!

A closer look at the desserts my aunty brought with her. The eclairs were to die for. The chocolate one used dark chocolate and I love dark chocolate so it was a real treat! Just look at the fresh cream .... yummy ...

It is very seldom that we get to buka puasa with aunts or uncles and cousins so this was a real treat eventhough the invite list was small. I hope to organise a buka puasa with the cousins but not sure if its a good time with an uncle being in hospital and all. Let us all pray for his speedy recovery.

Hope everyone is having a good Ramadhan ...

Happy Ramadhan

2009-08-24T08:52:00.002+08:00

Happy School Holidays Moms and Happy Fasting to everyone. I started last week and the fasting month in Bukit Mertajam. Just came back last night, or early this morning. Internet access is not very good at my mom-in-laws place so was not able to enter any postings.

We went back there last Wednesday and ushered the Ramadhan with her. My two daughters succesfully got through the first and second days and I look forward to many more days before the school session begins next week.

Najihah and Nadiah surprised me by being ever so RAJIN in the kitchen. Growing up young girls that I hope I can count on in the kitchen when I get older. They helped their grandmother do everything ... from chopping garlic, to tauhu to frying roti arab.

Yesterday we broke fast at my sis-in-laws place also in Bukit Mertajam and they helped out too. Infact I had to go back to mom-in-laws place to pack our stuff and they wanted to stay there to help with the buka spread. What a proud mom I was!

As this week is still the school holidays, I will definitely spur on their interest by being in the kitchen today and making sure they are there to help me. I think by the end of the school holidays fasting would be a breeze for them and insyaallah they can get through the whole month.

I picked up our raya clothes during my stay in BM. Looks like we are all ready for Raya then. hahahaha ....

Plan to make some cookies this year, more for us than for guests as our cookies never look presentable enough for guests. Have too many helpers including little Ali.

Hope everyone has a good week ahead!

No School

2009-08-17T00:13:00.002+08:00

I have declared next week a holiday for the girls from school which means they get a two week break only. This is a fluke too cause Nadiah who is in the afternoon session doesn't have school. An annoucement was made last Thursday they would close a week due to a case of H1N1.

Question: Why close only on Saturday onwards and not Friday which was the next day. Why was that Fridau so important for them to be in school.

Question: Why does the morning session still have to go to school. Even if it is a different session, isn't it the same building, same classroom etc.

I am sure many parent will not send their kids who are in the morning session either. As it is last week there were hardly many pupils in class and I suspect this week will be just as bad. Exams are over and there won't be much to miss I assume. I know it being a Chinese school there will be much the girls will miss but I doubt that is more important than their health.

My sister was telling me that in Australia, the number of cases for H1N1 was so high that they couldn't be bothered anymore about taking precautions so it is business as usual for them. In Mexico, it was just the opposite. Death numbers was rising so the Government closed down everything which resulted in a major decline in the economy. Wonder where we are ...

Ali in Hospital

2009-08-16T23:48:00.004+08:00

What a weekend I have had indeed. When I got back from Bandung last Monday my son Ali was down with the flu and a fever. I took him to our family GP on Tuesday and was given flu/cough and fever medication. His fever subsided by wednesday but on Friday his fever was back and he was so lifeless.

Of course worried I took him back to the clinic and the Dr was also worried so he asked me to take him to the hospital. Reasons being because the fever came back and Ali was weak. Ali was also in the risk group so he didn't want to take any chances.

Immediately we left for SJMC, sorry SDMC now, and that was about 7pm. The doctor here ran a blood test and results came back showing a viral fever and low blood count. Oh no .... dengue??? Yikes, Ali was admitted and I have been here since.

Tonight would be the third night at the hospital. His fever subsided already on the second day we stayed here so I was confident we could go home today but alas, doctor wanted him to stay one more day just to be sure he returns home fully recovered.

It's not dengue and I doubt its the H1N1. It is just a viral fever thank god. He was extremely active today and I think the other patients are probably cursing this noisy little boy on their floor. Today he was all over the hospital room. Silly me I didn't know there was a fridge here and Ali found it for me. Hahahaha...
Ali here is crawling the walls with boredom. He was feeling better and active!

Today was extremely funny too. My mom came back and brought Ali this little aeroplane not realising that the noise it made was really loud. Am sure the entire 3rd floor could hear it so we had to take the batteries out. We had to tell Ali it was spoilt and the little boy was really upset.

He is dying to get out of this room, everytime Bob comes by and is about to leave he would climb up and ask for a car ride. Must be dying of cabin fever my little Ali.

Hopefully the doctor will say it is okay for us to go home tomorrow. I don't think I can take another day here either. It is kinda restful being away from home, treat it like a little holiday eh ...

Scare ...

2009-08-12T16:04:00.002+08:00

I should write about this flu bug but I think all has been said about it by other bloggers. My kids school is not yet affected by it and so far there seem to be no cases of H1N1, thank god but of course you worry about it all the time. School is supposed to be a safe place not a place where you have to wear masks and worry about the kid next to you.

Try explaining it to your kids, it is not that simple to tell them why you should be extra careful and chances are they won't remember anyway cause they have been with their friends for the whole school year so how do they differentiate when it is safe and hazardous. I gave them each a mask and told them to put it on which they do for awhile and then they get hot and bothered under it. Of course the mask comes off.

Everyday I tell them to put it on especially if there is someone sick in class but you know what!?! It wouldn't make a difference lah, the mask doesn't really help. You would need to wear an authentic gas mask if you want to prevent disease. The best way is to just make sure your immune system is at its best.

We have had all kinds of disease scares but this is a pandemic which means we need to be real careful. People are dropping like flies ... ebola style. Hmmmmm ....the world is coming to an end they say. A very negative way to say it and seems like an easy way out but all the signs are there. This is God's way of saying look out perhaps.

Shopping in Bandung

2009-08-12T15:47:00.002+08:00

I had a great weekend. A weekend that is different from other weekends. I spent it doing what I love ... Shopping! In Bandung too. Went there with 2 girlfriends and my princess Najihah. We left Saturday afternoon and came home Monday night.

From the minute we walked out of the airport, we shopped the afternoon, evening and night away. Sunday we got up really early to be at the Pasar Baru at 8am and we stayed there until about 1pm I think. Even the driver was surprised that we asked him to pick us up from the hotel at 8am, we told him we wanted to be early before the crowd. That was a very wise decision indeed. The shops were just opening when we arrived and we had a the kind attention of all shopkeepers being early and all. Our stomachs told us it was time to leave about 1pm. By that hour we were at the few topmost floors and the crowd was thin there. Making our way down was a real feat, it being Sunday the market was packed like sardines.

Lunch on Sunday was at a nice place, Kedai Nyonya. The ambience was really nice. Where are the pictures you say? I didn't bring my camera, only because I didn't want to. My intention was to SHOP not to take pictures. Hahahaha ... I left it to my girlfriends to do all that touristy stuff so if I get their pictures I will post them here. Anyway, I had this satay kambing. It was delicious. Meat, fat and meat ... cooked terriyaki style. Must have it again next time.

Some of my friends asked me why I like Bandung as they prefer shopping in Jakarta. Jakarta is bigger and the comparison would be Tanah Abang for Pasar Baru. Tanah Abang is HUGE and I think very much for the business people who intend to buy in bulk. There are more clothes at Tanah Abang wherelese I feel there are more textile shops in Bandung's Pasar Baru. That is what I bought most anyway. Other shops are the same like telekung and t shirts. There are textile shops in Tanah Abang too but the variety doesn't seem as much as in Bandung. Besides, Pasar Baru is smaller and you don't need to walk around as much.

There are many facttory outlets scattered all over Bandung and you can get some really sweet deals for kids' clothes. For adults, I haven't really looked cause not really to my taste but I know t shirts are a steal there. I had a chance to visit the Paris Van Java Mall and it's so so lah. I prefer the Bandung Supermall but it is a bit too far out.

We only had 2 nights in Bandung which means that doesn't give you time to sight see. Shopping alone took up most of the time. Which is a blessing in disguise I guess cause than we would need to phone home for money!

Bandung is not as congested as Jakarta, no traffic jams everywhere, at least not the few times I have been there. Jakarta is a city, like Kuala Lumpur so of course the lifestyle is different and the "activities" would be city driven - movies, karoake, clubs and fancy restaurants. Bandung is a small city -- somewhat like Ipoh so the activities are simpler. Althought my sister did say she went clubbing there and it was not that bad. Bandung has a pretty interesting art scene too and you can see artistes putting up their work along the roadside.

The weather is the best in Bandung ... cool and crisp. Not much humidity so you get less tired. It seems to have been any annual event for me the past three years. Which means I must go again next year!

MISSING

2009-08-07T18:36:00.002+08:00

I realise I have not written much this week. What happened was I fell sick. Felt the flu bug creeping up on me and went to the doctor right away. He gave me this really strong stuff that knocked me out cold. All I needed was rest I guess and now I feel much better. I will be off to Bandung tomorrow till Monday. Going with some girlies for some pre raya shopping. This means that I don't get anymore raya shopping money for hubby so better spend well there. hehehehe ...

Take care babes ...

A Part to Play

2009-08-03T16:52:00.002+08:00

Have you ever taken some time to wonder what is happening to our country, to our world and to our lives in the long run. Have you ever taken the time to think how we can help make this world and this place we call home a better place. I am sure we all (at least I hope you do) cringe and sigh in disbelief at half if not all of the things that take place these days. You name it and it is happening. All too scary for me.

Crime. Black magic. Dirty money. Irresponsible civil servants. Corrupt corporate sector. Hate. Distrust. Pollution. Disease. Am sure there is much more but that is all I can think of for starters.

Of course we all want a better place for ourselves, for our kids, for our families and for our loved ones. I am also very sure all of us is doing a part to keep these things from affecting our quality of life. But how much do we do is enough! I ask myself that all the time, if I am doing my part to help my earth, to help my people and to help my country.

Sometimes it seems futile and whatever we try to do gets lost and drowns in the sea of good deeds cause there is so much bad and evil out there already. It is not like Hollywood movies where the good wins over the evil in the end of the day. It seems like however much good we do to try to make things better, it gets even more lost. For our good to fight the evil we have to join forces and be united. But it ain't that easy ... I can see that.

But I really hope that this little bit that I am doing will eventually pay off. Ya, it might not mean much when I am the only household along my street that recycles everything but I pray that it will eventually and others will play their part. I assume one person doing it is better than none.

That is only the tip of the iceberg of what we have to do to make this place a better home. Michael Jackson sang about these things before ... Man In The Mirror I think says a lot.

Let's all look in the mirror and ask ourselves these questions.

Friends

2009-07-30T09:46:00.003+08:00

What would you do if I sang out a tune da di da la di da We could try with a little help from our friends, yes we could try with a little help from our friends ....

Can't remember all the lyrics but that is the song going through my mind this morning. I believe with friends you can achieve so many things and do so many more things. What would life be without friends? Lonely of course ... and sad don't you think. All you would have are your family. I am not saying that family is not good enough but you still need friends.

Family are always there and there may be times you take them for granted. Chances are they also have their lives to deal with. For instance once a sibling gets married and has kids, they would probably spend more time with their spouse and their kids. Which means less time for brother or sister which they used to be rather close with.

Yet it is important to maintain that closeness and you could do this through phone calls or smses. And perhaps catch up once in awhile.

I forgot the point I was going to make when I started this story so ... I think I will stop here!

Baby Shower Pixs

2009-07-27T15:11:00.001+08:00

Here are some more pictures from the baby shower, courtesy of my friends on my facebook!
This bottle is the door gift. If you take the baby bear out you can use it for a piggy bank but I have put mine up on the shelf ..

An occasion would not be the same if we do not take group photos, this one reminds me of school days and how we loved to pose for the camera. Guess some things just don't change!

This is the jelly cake I told you about ... isn't that baby so cute!

We were all so anxious waiting for Elo to arrive so of course we passed the time by taking picture after picture after picture ....

We had real fun playing games, I think we played 5 games and we were all so tired out after them!

Will get you more pictures later!

Baby Shower Anyone?

2009-07-27T14:40:00.004+08:00

It has been a rather hectic week for me which explains why I did not write anything last week. But I must share with you what happened to me (and my girlfriends) last Saturday. A good friend of ours, Raja Elona, is expecting her 2nd child and the baby is due Aug 8. Elo, as we call her, stays in Jakarta but she has come back here to deliver her baby.

The beautifully set table .... the theme colour was blue and white

The beaming mother to be, my friend Elo ...

Shake ordered these really pretty cupcakes that looked too good to eat. Check out how Elo, Zurni and I are drooling over them. They had this very intricate handword done , amazing how art farty a person can be! And they were delicious too

One for the album ...

Two of my friends, Shake and Jami, had decided we surprise her with a baby shower. When we first heard the idea we were wondering what it was all about as it was a totally new concept to us. But these two friends convinced us it woukd be a hit and we went along with it.

Infact, these two friends planned everything and what planners they were. We held it at Oleen's house in Kelana Jaya and Shake and Jami did the place up so nicely it looked oh so cool! And as sweet as ever, it was like walking into a nursery. From the balloons to the decor, such as confetti, and the table setting ... it was all so pretty. I am sure all of us were wishing we could have one for ourselves next!

We had to tell Elo we had an AGM for SISTA and she was prompt as always. She opened the door and we all yelled SURPRISE!!! I loved the look on her face, she was so shocked she didn't really know how to react. Then she finally got a look around the room to see the balloons (which said BABY SHOWER on them), the decor and the presents. But I think it onyl finally sinked it a few minutes later.

We had so much fun cause there were games ( imagine us 37 year olds playing games) but it was oh so much fun. Shake and Jami even hired a pro photographer and I can't wait to see the pictures.

The best surprise of all was that Shake told us to wear white tops and blue jeans so that the mom-to-be (who she assumed would be wearing a colourful blouse) would stand out. What a surprise for us cause Elo came in a white top and blue jeans too. It looked like we were all in uniform!

There were cupcakse (SO PRETTY!!!) and lots of other food that we could not finish eating even we stayed there the whole night. A jelly cake with a baby on top, nasi dagang, spaghetti and I can't remember what else.

Shake and Jami even had door gifts for us. And each game we played we received presents too. So nice ... like being a kid again.

I had a blast and I am glad Elo did too. And happy she liked all our presents too! All the best Elo and good luck come Aug 8!

There are Blogs ....

2009-07-27T14:22:00.002+08:00

I guess blogs are a good way to wish your friends and relatives Happy Birthday. They are also a good way to express yourself especially when you can't say it anywhere else or any other way. I am trying to think back why I started this blog and it was due to a friend, a very good friend, who insisted I do it as a way to document my life. This friend always insisted that I was a good writer and I had churned out some good thoughts on paper in the past. Hmmm, I dunno about that but what I can say is, since I started the blog it has been an avenue for me to say things that otherwise would never be heard, what more written.

There are people who write utter nonsense in their blog, there are also people who use it to sell whatever merchandise they might want and there are also people who use their blog to exercise that freedom of speech. I like the latter as it is fun, entertaining and highly educational (?) to read their blogs. It is always interesting to see and read what people have to say and how they say it. I don't really like blogs that put anyone or any organisation down, that can get a little wee bit too personal and even harsh. It is however comforting to know there is such a thing as freedom of speech then. Then again, didn't I read somewhere that the Government was monitoring certain unruly blogs. AHAKS! Freedom of speech, does it exist then!

In view of all this, I guess I must once again say thank you to this friend for pushing me to start this blog. You know who you are ... thanks babe!

Everything Comes in Threes ...

2009-07-17T15:01:00.004+08:00

What a day it has been, guess all I can see Thank God It's Friday (?????) Then again not sure if there is any significance to that.

My morning started as usual, I sent Najihah to school and came home to get Nadiah ready for KAFA. Nadiah has been sick for the past few days -- a fever and tonsils. The fever has been infectious, of course, and Ali was feverish last night and this morning. After I sent Nadiah for KAFA, Ali and went about the usual routine -- making the beds etc. Oh wait! Forgot to say I found our kitten dead on the street, hit by a car. Poor Ali, he did seems a bit traumatised, or disturbed is a better word I think. He has been repeating it the whole day : "Ngeow Dead Car" Hmmmmm ...

Anyways, when I opened the doors to let Ali play outside on the verandah this morning, he stepped on a bee and was stung: "Owww Bug Mama" Tried to take the sting out but couldn't find any. The maid taught me a trick, to take any flower and smother the sting with it. It seems to have worked.

Halfway through the morning my handphone rang. "It was Najihah crying, Mama I have a headache it's very bad, please come and get me" Of course I rushed to school cause it must have been really bad for her to call. It's the first for her. Took her to the clinic and yup, she has a fever.

So here I am at home with Najihah who is sick and Ali who is bordering a fever and had a bee sting. Nadiah has gone to school after being absent for 3 days. Her tonsils are still a little swollen but her fever has subsided.

We found a big bee hive outside the house and the pest control people are coming to take it down tonight at 8pm. It has to be done at night so they can't find their prey. Which means we have to everyone out at 8pm later. My mother in law is on her way here as I write so I have called my sis-in-law to say we will have dinner at her house while the pest control folks do their work!

Let's see what the weekend has in store! How much more exciting can it get ...

Kids in Janda Baik

2009-07-15T10:02:00.004+08:00

When I went up to Fraser's Hill with my friends last weekend, Bob took the kids to Janda Baik. We have a friend who owns a beautiful sprawling bungalow there. It is by the river and a really nice place to chill. He has a homemade lake where you can go boat paddling too.

The kids love the river and we have even camped out there a few times. It is really cool at night and almost freezing in the morning. I remember one time we were camping out but we had to run into the house in the middle of the night cause it started raining too hard.

Ali as usual, loved being there as the pictures show. He loves the water now and also the camera!

This is our neighbour, Cikgu Rahman, obviously trying to catch some fish into his net. Not sure if he was succesful though ..

I like this picture best, Ali chilling with Bob up at the house. I like the way their positions are about the same. Ali follows everything his father does these days. Must be careful what Bob does I guess!

The water must have not been so cold cause the girls don't look like they are freezing here. But then again, they don't look so wet either!

Ali all decked out in his swimsuit ... looks a bit forlon though. Maybe missing his Mama?!?

I love these pictures and the happy faces of the kids. Even kids need some time out and a chill break huh!

What's With the Haze

2009-07-14T11:52:00.002+08:00

The haze is like Hari Raya and puasa, it is an annual event. We have been living this way for years now. Instead of waiting anxiously for the festive season, we now wait anxiously for the haze.

Where is it? Shouldn't it be here by now? It is late isn't it this year. Hahahaha ... We know it is an annual happening and yet nothing can be done about it by our Government or the Indonesian Government. If I remember, there were bilateral talks about this to curb it last year, or was it the previous year. Wonder what happened. For that matter, I can't even remember the conclusions of that meeting.

We can discuss so effectively about maid issues, why can't we discuss about this haze problem and reach a definite conclusion. Doesn't the Indonesian Government realise the impact on the world. Not their community but Asean countries as a whole.

It was just one day exposed to the haze yesterday and my throat feels itchy already. Nadiah has also developed a fever today so she is off from school which is not good as their exams are just around the corner.

Let's hope the haze clears up soon. Makes me miss the clean and crisp air of Fraser's very much. Such a luxury being up there.

Fraser's Hill Anyone?

2009-07-13T16:07:00.006+08:00

Friends are the best thing ever aren't they. Especially those that we have known all our lives. I have friends from all moments of my life. School, college, uni, work and family friends. But it is with my school friends that I always feel most comfortable with, probably because I have known them all my life.

Guess that is the best thing about having the great opportunity to go to one school your whole life. My school friends and I have been together since we were seven. Not many people will understand the bond we share but imagine, being together since we were seven to 17! The things we went through together, the things we shared and did together (good and bad lah!!). Of course Assunta's class of 1989 is much bigger than the circle we mix with but it is normal that we end up sticking to the same friends isn't it. It was about a year and a half ago that this certain group rekindled our friendship and since that time, we have been almost inseparable.

There were ups and downs of course, fights and laughs, but we are still together and that's the best thing ever. The thing about regrouping now at the age of 37 is that we are more tolerant of each other. We know and understand that each has their own character and we respect that. The best thing is we love each other all the same, and we can even laugh together about a certain friend's bad habits! What else are friends for right? We are here for each other and no one understands each other better.

Don't get me wrong, there is a closeness with me and friends from other circles too but growing up together makes a big difference. Am sure you know what I mean. There are times we don't even have to explain anything to each other. Even when we piss the other off, the other will understand because we know each other too well.

Before this I had never gone anywhere with just my friends but since this crazy group of Assuntarians came together, there have been food outings, get togethers for no reason, and trips without the family. Something I have come to enjoy and look forward to as time to myself.

We went up Fraser's Hill over the weekend. The last time I was there was with my folks when I was in school. Of course things looked bigger than (hahahahaha) but really it was a blast of a time from the moment we left until we sit at our computers looking at the pictures.

This is where we stayed ... it is a very nice place and the view is fantastic. Jami's hubby works at NST so we got the opportunity to book the old bungalow and enjoy its facilities. Which includes an excellent Chinese chef! Some of you may ask what do 10 girls do all that time together .... aha...read on!

We went up Saturday morning and spent the night there. Early Sundat morning, about 6.30am, we heard a loud crash and behold, a tree had fallen right across the road. Which meant we were stuck there. Cars couldn't get past. Such excitement for all of us! But of course it was cleared eventually by the caretaker and this troopers!

This is the fallen tree that also took down a powerline and telephone cables. Luckily the electricity supply was not affected. The wind that morning was really strong and this tree did not have such a thin bark.

Some of the pretty flowers in Fraser's ...

Back to the question of what we did there. From the time we left till the time we got back, all we did was EAT. We were munching and munching and munching ...

This was our last lunch there before we took the drive down the hill. Noodles and fried sotong ... and the lemon chicken was fantastic! There was Chinese style assam peda too ...

We designated a table for all our snacks which included Red Velvet Cake (in the basket), chocolates, chocolates, chocolates and junk food such as twisties (which we didn't have time to eat0 and kuaci.

This is a map showing Fraser's Hill. I think the population is really small ....but really a nice place to stay and retire too. The air is fresh and clean, and you feel healthy!

Ah ... this was the lunch that greeted us when we first arrived. Sambal prawns, sweet and sour fish, fresh vegies grown right in the garden ...

Before we went up the hill, we stopped at the famous Yik Mun restaurant in Tanjung Malim to have breakfast which consisted of noodles in every style possible and paus in all flavours ...

We passed the time up Fraser's chatting and talking (besides eating lah) and watched movies together, something we always wanted to do togethere but somehow in KL you just can't find the time. Won't tell you what movie we finished watching here but its an all time favourite of mine!

This is the 1o of us who went up there and had a really good break ...

On Sunday morning we took a morning walk and attempted going down one of the trails but were scared when we remembered the story of someone who was lost for quite some time taking one of the trails.

We also took the chance to play some Scrabble. But only two games as "chill" was the word for the weekend ... And note how the Tim Tam is right next to the Scrabble board ..

The other stuff we like doing is taking pictures ... this is a tribute to a great man, Mr Michael Jackson may he rest in peace.

A beautiful picture of my friend Hazleen ...

My friend Shake is an arty farty with the camera. Check out the spectacular view from Muar Cottage.

We took a drive down to the town on Saturday evening and walked around the town a bit. This picture was taken an the golf course ...

This is called Big Ben. If you go straight it will take you downhill back to Kuala Kubu Baru. It is the center of attraction for visitors to Fraser's

Earlier, we had tea at the Olde Smokehouse. The building is 85 years old and still well maintained.

What did we do at the Olde Smokehouse you say? EAT Scones of course. It was the best scones I have ever tasted with home made jam and the clotted cream was divine ...

We also had this Earl Grey cake which there seems to be no picture of but it was delicious!!

The scones are really a treat to have and from the satisfied look on our faces, you can only imagine what it tasted like.

In this picture is Suzana, Nikki, Shake and Sherie. The weather was really great when we were up there except for the morning when the wind was so strong that the tree fell.

I crammed 10 of us in the Alphard which is now known as Optimus Prime. We drove to town and around the hills back to Muar Cottage ...

It was a great trip, a great get-away. Something we can't very often but I know something we will always look back at with fondess. Thank you GGG for a great weekend.

Gifts for Hari Raya

2009-07-10T08:49:00.003+08:00

Hari Raya is coming soon, not so soon you will say but time flies by so fast these days. It will creep up on you before you know it.

I will be selling hampers this festive season and here are some samples for you to consider. The concept this year is traditional as well as modern and there are many variations you can choose from.

Sample 1:

One big tin of biscuits: choice of traditional Kuih Bakar or any modern cookies
One small tin of Kek Lapis
Handmade Syawal card
Price: RM180.00

Terms and condition:
* 50 percent deposit upon order
* Delivery charges: RM30.00 per item (50% discount for orders more than ten)

Sample 2:

This basket is simple and yet packed with goodies:
One box of Patchi Biscuits
One medium size jar of Acar Buah
One medium size jar of Muruku or Almond
One Sejadah or one Small Plant
Handmade Syawal/Ramadhan card
Price: RM380

Sample 3:

Let them know you’re thinking of them with one of our finest collections of home cook delicacies:
One medium jar of Acar Buah
One medium jar of Muruku
One medium of Almond Nuts or Chocolates
4 different design of Classic Serviettes
Handmade Ramadhan/Syawal card
Price: RM260

Sample 4:

This is a perfect choice for the traditional look. A wooden box cover with intricate carvings tops a mengkuang box. It comes in two sizes.

Big box contains:
Telekung & Sejadah
Handmade Ramadhan card
Price: RM380

Small box contains:
Dates or Chocolate covered dates
Handmade Ramadhan card
Price: RM180

Sample 5:

There’s no such thing as too much chocolate!

Double tier Patchi Chocolates and/or Bateel Dates.
Handmade Syawal card
Price: RM790.00

Terms and condition:
* 50 percent deposit upon order
* Free delivery

Feel free to give me a buzz if you would like to purchase these hampers. Thank you

Hmmmm

2009-07-08T10:36:00.001+08:00

I just realised that most of my postings are about Ali these past few weeks. Hmmmm ... Not that there is nothing going on in my life but lately I have been feeling a little lull. Not too sure what that lull means but it has almost left me blank of emotions.

July 4 in Gold

2009-07-08T10:18:00.000+08:00

July 4 was a very exciting day for us. It was SJK (C) Lick Hung's sports day and the first time either one of the girls participated. Nadiah's class participated in a race. She was excited about it for almost a month and that last week towards it was totally unbearable for her.

It is not surpising that Nadiah was the one selected to participate because of the two girls, she is obviously the more sporty one. Najihah secretly told me that when her class teacher was selecting who would take part in sports, she purposely ran slower cause she didn't want to be involved. I don't know good or bad or how to react to it other than some people have different interests.

We woke up the usual time like on a school day as we had to be at the MPSJ field by 7.15am. The event started sharp at 8am and it was a procession of the students first. Very colourful field indeed.After the national anthem, we were entertained with student's activities such as tae kwan do, diablo, dance, fan dance, martial arts display by one lone student and chinese drums. That lasted for a good hour and finally the sporting events began.

Not a very good picture as we sat up in the bleachers so we could see Nadiah. If we sat lower, we would not be able to see anything as there were also many parents lined up along the track to see their children. Nadiah is in the yellow house and she was the last to run for her team.

She was partnered with a friend and together they had to run hand in hand halfway where they next put a ball between them and ran to the finishing line. Not bad for a first time sports participant cause they won the gold medal. I was so surprised and Nadiah was beaming with pride.

That's the score board after Nadiah's victory. Note that at this juncture, the yellow house is leading.

The gold medal hangs proudly on her bed. She was excited but tried to maintain her cool.

The good thing about their sports day, they were given their medals immediately after their event and they were free to leave. We were home by about 10am. In time to spend the rest of the day with Ali.

Ali turned 2 on July 4. We didn't have any special celebrations, he is only 2 anyways and no point lah cause it would be a celebration for the parents. I even forgot to take a picture of him on his second birthday. Bad huh!

Anyways, he is talking a bit more now and picks up words a little easier. He says "mimming" for swimming! So cute ... he can also say kemas, roti boom and a few other words I can't remember now. But I also realised that he has become more mischievous... is this the terrible two's people are always mentioning?!?

All in all, it was a good independence day!

Slow Week

2009-07-03T13:41:00.002+08:00

I have been going through a writer's block and blank thoughts phase this whole week. Nothing has been coming out of the I-must-express-this corner of my brain. Even my FB status's has been rather ... boring. In fact this whole week I have felt that ... bored. Actually I believe it's part of the PMS. Been totally out of it this entire week.

Tomorrow is a big day for all of us. One because Nadiah is taking part for the first time in sports day. Even Najihah has not done so before. So my first child to take part on sports day. Sports day for the girls' school is not like what it was during my school days where everyone participated. For Lick Hung only selected kids take part. Maybe they feel its better time management or something. It will build school spirit and camaraderie no? Guess no lah ...

It is also Ali's 2nd birthday tomorrow. We thought of bringing Ali for a bus ride but now since we have sports day, maybe no need lah. No big event or anything tomorrow, he is only 2 and what does he know anyway about birthdays. Besides, he's a boy rite, they don't need big party dos. I think ...

So hope you had a good week and have a great weekend.

Ali Makes Noise

2009-07-01T09:19:00.004+08:00

Ali will be 2 years old on Sat, July 4. Yup ... he was born on America's Independence Day. A national holiday but only for Americans. There will be firework shows and jamming parties but not for Ali lah. He will be sound asleep at about 8pm!

This is Ali trying out his father's electric drum set. He is quite a natural with the sticks and such a fast learner too. He was trying very hard to play with the peddles as well as hit all the right spots on the drum set.

He is also a natural (noise maker that is) at the keyboard. Hope he will be musically inclined!

His grandmother just bought him this new toy for his birthday. It is one of those battery operated cars which go round on a loop. It is really fun and he has been playing it non stop since he got it yesterday. But the song that goes with it is a real killer! It is drving me up the wall. Why oh why can't that make these kinda toys have more peaceful and soothing music!

Ali and his singlet!

2009-06-25T11:13:00.002+08:00

Ali has these two pairs of singlet sets, one in orange and one in green. I bought it for him some time back from a pasar malam in Bukit Mertajam. He likes this outfit very much, a little too much if you ask me.

So much that he does not want to wear anything else. Likes it so much that he has even threw tantrums because of it. Likes it so much that there are times he just wants to hold on to it and fall asleep!

Crazy singlet set!

This is the orange set. Don't have any picture of the green suit.

It dries and he wears it. Considering how many times a day he changes clothes, the suit gets a wash twice a day and he wears it immediately as it dries. It gets very difficult when we want to go out as he wants to wear only this singlet suit.

I have to show him his shoes first, nice ones I must add, then only will he wear something else. What I have done now is hidden it. If he doesn't see it he won't cry for it so much. So far no fever lah from not being able to wear it.

He has tonnes of other singlets but no ... it has to be this one!

To All the Dads ....

2009-06-21T09:18:00.003+08:00

Today is Father's Day. Happy Father's Day! But dad's are not like mom's are they. They don't seem to make a big deal of it and have expectations if you know what I mean!! They don't expect presents and lunch and cakes and what not. Not to mean that we don't appreciate them but they just don't expect this frivilous things. Or are they frivilous? Hmmmm...

Najihah got her dad a mug that says I love Father while Nadiah didn't get him anything. She couldn't find anything she liked. Well, Bob isn't even home this morning, he went out riding the Ducati, dressed in his leather suit and all. I asked the girls if they want to take him out for lunch or some special treat and they just shrugged their shoulders and said I don't know.

So from that I don't know I just cooked lunch lah and let's just eat at home then. Maybe tea can be spent outside or even an early dinner then.

Happy Father's Day!

Ali's Big Sneeze

2009-06-21T09:00:00.002+08:00

Ali was down with the flu when we were in Krabi last two weeks and Bob took this great series of pictures that I have to share with you. A bit disgusting perhaps but I think a great trail of pixs.

He starts here with a sneeze coming ...
Then the sneeze comes ...

Along with all the phlegm .... (Arrrggghhhh!)

And Ali wonders what to do with it!

After the sneeze ... trying to recover!

Maybe I can compiled this into a wall series, or what is it called? Hahaha ...

Back to School

2009-06-16T11:29:00.002+08:00

It's back to school and time to get the juices pumping! I was quite surprised how much I looked forward to the 2 week school break and enjoyed it to the max. There was no need to rush around all day looking at my watch all the time. There was no need to stress myself out about getting them ready on time. So why do we have to send them to school then right! (HAHAHAHA)

Yesterday was a good first day though. I felt very relaxed and not stressed at all. The two week break and the getaway to Krabi really help rejuvenate and revitalize the senses. It also helped yesterday that Nadiah decided she was not feeling well so she skipped school lah.

Ali who was sick during our holiday in Krabi is all better now and back to his usual tricks. He was very cranky the whole of yesteray but today he looks like he is feeling better and is busy moving furniture as I write.

I am already planning for the next school holidays but alas it will be during the fasting month. Darn!

Krabi June 2009

2009-06-15T16:34:00.005+08:00

These are some pictures taken during the recent holiday in Krabi, Thailand. Some of you might wonder doesn't this family have anywhere else to go. Well, it is a nice place, really. The pace is good and ideal for a holiday mood. And a holiday is always about the food right! If you ask me how many times we have been there, I honestly can't remember. Too many times I think until most of the people know us there, especially the lady who gives Thai Massages on the beach!

Ali all smiles ... he was already down with fever at this time. Kinda spoilt the holiday for him I think but he managed to get some fun in too am sure

I like the mood of this picture. Such a classic! What with the sunset and all ...

The two girls trying hard to catch the waves on Aonang Beach Ali was sick towards the end of the stay. This is him looking so forlorn with a cool pack on his forehead

Najihah and Nadiah got their hair braided this time. They looked so cute, like Bo Derek! It took about an hour to do and cost me RM60 a head. Hmmmm ... holiday okay lah kut!

We took all the braids out a day before going back to school

Ali learnt to blow bubbles. He tried very hard to teach him and after many tries he managed to blow some

My friend Mimi went crazy over the mangga with pulut. It is delicious indeed. The pulut there is different and the santan that goes with it is exquisite

As usual, waiting for food. What is a holiday without food rite! I sincerely believe a holiday is all about food. One of the reasons why we opted for Krabi (again) and not Terengganu. The food there not as good as in Thailand

This is buah kelubi. I have never heard of it until I married Bob so ... and no, I have not tasted them. They don't look very interesting to me lah

On our way to Krabi, we stopped at Kok Lanta where our friend Rath stays. His sister and mom are excellent cooks and as usual we were given a spread fit for a king! Bob trying out fresh coconut with the girls

Was trying to get them to pose for a picture on our way to Krabi. So hard to get them all to smile, or look at the camera at the same time

All in all it was a good holiday and I am now on an official diet by the way. Have eaten way too much and it's so not good. I enjoyed Krabi a lot this time, felt very relaxed despite some sad news and Ali being sick. Can't wait for the next holiday!

June 13

2009-06-14T16:20:00.007+08:00

I celebrated my 37th birthday on June 13. This year was really a different celebration cause we were away on holiday. We took the kids to Krabi, Thailand for the school holidays. Initially we had planned to come back on Friday which was June 12 but the kids were having so much fun we decided to extend another day. But something happened June the 13 which will make my birthday a sad one from now on.

We ushered my birthday with a great dinner of lobster and mussels. DELICIOUS! After all, the reason why we like going to Krabi so much is the excellent food and fresh seafood. This time around two other families went with us and each had 3 kids. The kids made it all more fun with their laughter and cries of happiness at seeing the pool and the beach.

Bob had organised a birthday surprise for me. Did not expect it at all, it was really sweet of him. With the surprise came a bouquet of roses too. Can you imagine ... after all these years .. I got a bouquet of ROSES, red too! We have a Thai friend, Rath, and his daughter's birthday in on June 12. So it was a sorta joint celebration. Melissa's was her sweet 16 and mine sweet 37 (!!!!!). The cake was chocolate (but of course) but it was really rich despits its texture.

My birthday cake with not enough candles! Melissa and I blew them out together and we cut the cake together too. I really was surprised and that will make it memorable.

See all those candles. I guess Bob couldn't decide whether to celebrate a sweet 16 or a not so sweet 37th birthday!

The next day (June 13) we got up really early to start our journey home. Am a little sad we spent my birthday on the road but it was a great day nevertheless, with more great food! We stopped at a beach (forgot its name now) which is about an hour from the Wang Kelian border.

My birthday lunch was:

Tom Yam Seafood ...

Fried sotong ....

Telur Dadar, which I must add is a must have at EVERY meal. The way they fry it there is really different. Oily and delicious ...

Fried Siakap with Thai Sauce. This was my birthday dish for the day and I licked the platter clean ...

The contented birthday girl with her dearest husband ...

Ah! How could I forget to share with you the pre birthday meal of lobster cooked two styles. I had baked with cheese and fried with chilli ...

The mussels with cheese ...

I could have had more but I really had to control it. The seafood there is really fresh and quite cheap too!

While we were enjoying the holidays in Krabi, my aunty Mak Lang ( she is my mom's 3rd sibling) was undergoing an operation to drain out blood and liquid from her lungs which had collapsed from cancer. The operation was not so succesful as they were not able to drain all the liquid out and the chances of it being flooded again was definitely there. She slipped into a coma and passed away on my birthday at 6.31am. I could not make it back on time of course. I was sad of course as I had been close to her, especially growing up. She used to be the headmistress at Tun Fatimah in Johor Baru and we used to go for holidays there a lot. Will definitely miss her.

Now my birthday's will always be tinged with sadness.

Al Fatihah ...

Aishah turns 27

2009-06-14T15:40:00.004+08:00

My little sister Aishah turned 27 years old on June 6. Not so little anymore I guess. We were not able to celebrate it with her on her birthday because she had other plans of course. Well, what do you expect from a 27 year old.

I remember when she was born and growing up with her was really fun. I adored her as a little girl. She was really cute! And very nakal too!! Over the years we have remained friends and she is more than a sister to me. Not forgetting the fact that she is also a very reliable errand girl! She used to be a very good baby sitter too but with her busy work schedule, social life and what not, she doesn't have the time to do anymore.

She is also very good at doing groceries for me too. She did this for me every week, infact sometimes twice a week, when I was in confinement with Najihah and Nadiah. At that time she was still studying so she had all the extra time in the world.

Aishah is planning a move to Australia, a migration. The real deal, with a PR and all. I know she has to lead her own life but it would be oh so sad to see her go.

For her 27the birthday celebration, we had high tea the next day at my mom's place in Shah Alam. My mom cooked a lot of nice yummy food and I had tea and dinner as well.

This is nenek with her two grandsons, Ali and Khalif. They both didn't look very happy that they had to share her. Am so hoping they will be friends but looking at the dagger looks there were giving each other, am not so sure!

Amir and I bought her a chocolate mousse cake. Aishah and I celebrate our birthdays together every year as they are one week apart. It is our ritual to get a chocolate mousse cake fro Shangri-La in KL cause it is THE BEST. This year, we didn't do the usual but we had to get her a cake anyways so I tried the one from the Apartment at the Curve. Their mousse which is served in a cup is really delicious but the cake is not so good lah. Quite a disappointment> Even the two girls were waiting anxiously for that oh so sweet taste.

We were all standing around for the this picture. Not sure what we were waiting for ... but you can tell the girls were getting impatient.

I like this picture .... Another year wiser perhaps my little sister!

Mama cooked up a real storm. This dish is celery sticks stuffed with cream cheese and topped with walnuts. It was delicious!

We also has this beef pie. The crust was the best part. Infact, the two girls only wanted the crust ... hmmmmm!

This is another favourite dish of ours. Its called potato gratin (bottom left) This was the first to go. I think I could just eat this the entire day and be satiated.

Me and my little sister, Aishah. Happy Birthday my dear. Lots of love and hugs....

Hmmmmm ....

2009-06-01T10:58:00.003+08:00

The school holidays are finally here. A time much awaited for. Two weeks of not having to look at the time every hour or so. ABout not having to worry about being late and traffic jams. Better enjoy these two weeks to the max. Never mind that the kids are at home all day shouting, screaming and fighthing. At least you don't have to shuttle them back and forth. Now that I worded it that way, not so sure which is better after all!!!!

Decisions

2009-05-27T07:43:00.003+08:00

Decisions are hard to make especially BIG ones but I made one today. At about 3am to be exact! I have been mulling over this particular decision for more than a year now but decided today to finally go ahead and take the plunge.

My good friends have said that if we have spent so long thinking about it, in the end just follow your heart which is what I have done. I have tried to look at it from all perspectives -- mine and the recipient -- but in the end what I want will have to prevail.

I made the decision to tell my mom that I don't want to work anymore. Not so much work with her but not work at all. I have been working from home since my son was born in July 2007 but as good as a deal it sounds, it isn't working out as much as I would like it to. I still feel that my time is not totally devoted to my children and the home as I still have to worry about work. And honestly I hate it. I have been thinking about this so long and wondering how to go about it. But last night, after dinner with the family, Bob and I were talking and he put it all on the table especially from a third party point of view. It was just as I saw it. I guess I just needed someone to tell me. I knew then that what I have been mulling over all this while is the right decision for me at least.

After all, it is all about me isn't it. I can't go on making other people happy and I can't just go on doing it because I have to for someone's sake. This is what I want. So I am sticking by it. There is something about letting it all out, especially since I have been mulling over it for more than a year.

I feel relieved that I have told my mom, I had to write it out in an email though as I know if I were to talk to her words will not come out right incase she starts getting erm, upset! So she has not responded but whatever it is, I have told her and she will know where I stand on this.

What do I want to do then you ask? Be a mother, isn't that a full time career too? More fulfilling one I might add!

The US of A

2009-05-26T07:31:00.003+08:00

My dear friend just came back from the United States of America last week after a two week holiday in LA. This was her first time there and she had a really great time althought not enough time to do all a tourist should do and see cause she was there partly for work.

Am really glad she enjoyed herself there and seeing as little as she did, I know she can't wait to go there again. There is so much to see in the States. Despite what the Government is, it is a great place. Hearing to all her stories makes me miss it very much.

I studied in the States from 1992 to 1995 and it was the BEST time of my life. If ever I could turn back the clock it would be to that time. Not only was the place great but the time was good too. When I was studying the exchange rate was only 2.5 (what our rate with Singapore is now!) therefore the pinch was not felt so much.

A picture of downtown Kalamazoo. There was a disco/club we used to go to during weekends. Forgot what it's name is

There is something about being a student too. You don't have to worry so much about worldly problems like we do at this age. I studied at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. This is two hours away from Chicago and Detroit. It's situated at the Great Lakes which means it was winter 8 months of the year. Cold!!!! BRRRRRRR ..... But an experience I would never give up.

When you are away from home like that, friends are the most important things as they are the only family you have. I made many friends there and there was a bunh of us that became pretty close knit. I am rather sorry that we are not all in touch with each other but our lives have taken us on a different path. Nevertheless, you are all remembered and will always be dear to me.

I have a whole bunch of pictures but I would have to dig them out of storage. There are so many memories there. The friends. The places we travelled to. The food. The classes. The campus. Ahhhhh ... so many sweet memories. The movies every weekend, the late night donuts, 24 hour grocery shopping, delivery shopping!

We took the opportunity to travel as much as we could when we were there. Of course going to Chicago was like a weekly affair. We loved the sophistication of the windy city and there were several good food outlets there including an Indian shop where we could get tosai! Besides the shopping was good too and there is a factory outlet called Michigan City on the way there which we loved!

When my friend was there, a whole bunch of us who studied and travelled to the States before kept on asking her to eat all kinds of things for us. Ah yes ... the food was good. Even the Chinese food there is different. Hunan and Kong Poa Chicken was my favourite! Yummy ... Not forgetting the chocolate malt, desserts galore, Ruby Tuesday, Denny's and Big Boys (patty melt and country fried steak). There was this steak house we used to like going to and it would be a monthly treat for us as it was rather pricey. Can't remember what its called now. There was this burger broil place too downtown, it was really very good. I remember those burgers very well, even the buns were different!

The shopping was another thing wasn't it! I think I accumulated a lot of junk when I was there. America is great for knick knacks and well, junk! But collector's junk some of us would like to call it. There was this knick knack shop downtown, just next to Jacobson's which I just adored. They had beautiful stationary, and stickers and punchers and what not. My kind of shop!

There are so many memories of the US of A. I remember watching my first football match at one of our home games. And the ice hockey matches were a real adrenalin rush. I remember I took ice skating and my instructor was an ice hockey player before, Scott. Very the can do!!!

Fall was my favourite time of the year. It was always so pretty when the leaves were all changing colour and the air was cool. I loved taking walks in the fall, with the leaves rustling as you walk by. I tried making a snowman several times, and snow angels too!

And yes, somewhere in between I had classes and I did graduate (sadly) with a double major in Journalism and Interpersonal Communications.

Saturday Outing

2009-05-19T11:42:00.001+08:00

Last Saturday was spent with the kids and it was a fun outing. We went to One Utama and made a beeline for Delicious. It was only 11.30am and there is a difference when you go there so early. Service is quick and the food taste better too.

I like the Delicious there cause there is an outdoor sitting area and the kids can run around freely without worrying about banging into tables or creating too much noise for the person next door.

The kids enjoyed a chocolate milkshake but as you can see from this picture, you know which kid enjoyed it most! He finished it all up too ..

I tried to get a picture of all of them sucking their straws from the same glass but it was not that easy. As usual Nadiah doesn't want to cooperate!

What surprised us all was when one of the waitresses touched Ali's cheek and said, "You are so cute, can I take you home?" He brushed his cheek pointed at her and said "NO!" It was so cute we all burst out laughing!

The rest of the afternoon was spent looking for Teacher's Day presents and a present for Bob. His birthday is coming soon and it is not that easy to look for a suitable present. The girls got him quite original presents though.

Ali likes posing for the camera, which explains why I have so many shots of this. Trying to get them to smile is really a hard feat. Oh ya ... school holidays coming soon. Can't wait for a break.

Bye bye Sumi

2009-05-15T11:46:00.003+08:00

Sumi will be leaving back for Perth on Sunday. We met again for tea yesterday at Treats, its a cafe in Taman Tun (next to Muhibbah Restaurant). It belongs to an Assuntarian class of '89 too who happens to be the sister of a fellow classmate too. Small world eh!

Anyways, it's a nice and cosy restaurant which serves yummy desserts and the food is pretty good and competitively priced.

Not all of us could join but the company is good and always nice to catch up with old friends. Always nice to be with the girls and talk about school days and how much our lives have changed. Yesterday we talked mostly about weight. Some of us has less than others!
(From left standing) Shareen Azlina (owner of Treats), Geraldine Ann Jeremiah, Sumi, Indra, Adele. (Seated from left) Fizzi, Suzana, me and Shariah.

Take care Sumi, hope to see you again soon.

May 14

2009-05-15T11:31:00.003+08:00

My wedding anniversay falls on May 14. It was on this day 11 years ago that Bob and I got married. Sometimes I can't believe it has been that long. All the ups and downs of life and marriage. All the tests and challenges we were faced with througout the 11 years. All the good and bad times. Through thick and thin.

I am thankful for the 11 years that we have and God willing there will be more to come.

There are so many things in a marriage that makes life difficult, good, fun (at times) and fulfilling. I have matured over these 11 years or at least I would like to believe so. And despite what my husband thinks, I know that I have grown a lot, especially over the last few years. I can't say there were no problems along the way. If there were no problems it wouldn't be a marriage rite!?! (hahahaha) But alhamdullillah, we got through them and I hope we will continue to go through the rest of them with a level head.

Many a times my girlfriends and I would talk about marriage and husbands (and in-laws) *wink* and we usually conclude the same things: after years of marriage it is not so much about love anymore but the commitment. It is sad when we conclude this. Of course there is still love but the love has evolved into a different phase (hhhmmmm....are you buying this!) On a serious note, marriage is not about that falling head over heels in love feeling when you were in your teens. It is about commitment, responsibility and compromise. Giving and taking (or shall I just say giving!) is mostly what's it about.

Some of my girlfriends take more and some give more. There is a difference betwen being a push over and a go getter. We have all of them in our circle of friends. In the end I believe it is what you want it to be. If we let every little thing get to you, sigh .. you won't have much happiness for yourself.

Know that song, smile when your heart is lonely, smile when your heart is aching? Well, many of us have mastered that art. I have come to point of saying what's the point? Just let it go and live anyway!

So, the secret is carrying the WHATEVER attitude and smiling ...

Happy Anniversary My Dearest Husband

Tim Tam's and Tea with Sumi

2009-05-13T10:57:00.003+08:00

My good friend Sumi Henry stays in Perth, Australia and she came back here for a short and HOT holiday. Sumi loved the heat she says (GILA!) Of course we were all excited at the thought of seeing here again. We had organised tea last week but only a few of us could make it.

Back row from left: My BFF Nazlin, SISTAs Sherie, Oleen and Suzana. Seated is me, Sumi and Sophie.

We met at Grand City in PJ and had a nice spread of tosai, karipap, vadir and roti tissue. Most drinks had ice in them due to the heat.

The best part about this tea was the surprise Sumi brought out from her bag. It was was Tim Tam's and mind you, the one from Australia tastes very different from the one in Indonesia. Sumi showed us how to eat it the Aussie way and let me tell you, try it once and you are hooked!

All you need is a hot drink, coffee is best it seems, and the Tim Tam. Sumi liked the double coated one as it adds to the yumminess. Now this is how you do it. You have to bite off one corner at each end. So the bitten corners are across each other. Then you dip one bitten corner in the hot drink (just dunk the corner in, not the whole biscuit) and suck the hot drink through the other bitten corner. Then you enjoy the Tim Tam. The hot drink will melt the insides of the Tim Tam ... and its all gooey and suckles in your mouth. I can taste it as I speak.

See how satisfied we all look after the food and Tim Tam's. Good to see you again Sumi!

Mother's Day

2009-05-12T22:30:00.005+08:00

Have you ever wondered why Mother's and Father's Day fall on a Sunday? To allow or shall I say ENSURE all the children are free to spend it with them. Why else right? It also gives the children a chance to buy them gifts and what nots on Saturday.

It's funny though, I don't remember Mother's Day being such a big deal for my family when I was younger. I mean we knew of it and occasionally would get mom a present but I don't remember it being so commercialised. Must be another Hallmark created holiday lah.

This year's Mother's Day was really a good one. Last year was good too cause my daughter's actually persuaded their father to take them out to buy me a present. They got me a really sweet ring too. This year my husband bought me a present ... oooooo .... and what a present it was. Something unexpected and it was real surprise too.

My mom wanted dim sum for Mother's Day so we agreed to go to China Treasures at the Sime Darby Convention Centre. She invited Murni's parents too. Murni is my sis-in-law in case you have forgotten. A nice round table with us three siblings and the foud grand kids.

The food was good as usual BUT there was no chicken feet or fried yam that day. AND they ran out of egg tarts so we only got one round of it and I didn't get to eat any. BOO HOO. Oh well, gives me a reason to go there again real soon.

Aishah picked up a cake from my favourite cake lady. This is the chocolate mud cake and is just to die for. Believe me. She makes this fantastic cheesecake too. Call me if you want her number. You won't regret the calories. HAHAHAHA
The good thing about that Mother's Day is, there was a clown present to entertain the kids. He made balloon structures for them. Ali was the most amused with the clown which he kept on calling Abang! He followed the clown around the whole restaurant. Nadiah and Najihah got flowers and my mom and Murni's mom got big heart balloon structures too, much to their delight Ali got two swords! He went around hitting everybody.

This is my mom (left) and Murni's mom. We made them cut the cake as the whole Mother's Day do was more for them. Then it should have been nenek day. Hmmmm ...Tell Hallmark that and they will definitely creat it!

Mama and her two girls. Ali didn't want to keep still to take a picture together. He was too busy chasing the Abang clown with his balloon swords.

Everyone spent about one half hours of eating and then we just chatted and chatted. Actually we were waiting for the egg tarts but they didn't tell us they had run out until we had our coffee and Mother's Day cake!

My brother Amir and his lovely wife Murni. Khalif? Oh he is around, probably with the nenek lah. Give him another year and he will be like Ali, can't keep still.

It was a good Sunday and now we have to figure out to do something different next year.

Happy Mother's Day! Better start preparing for Fathers Day .. hehehe

The 9th Birthday

2009-05-11T22:00:00.002+08:00

This is my 9-year-old Najihah. She enjoyed a quite birthday. Funny to say that at such an age but seriously. The night before her birthday we cut her cake. In fact I didn't think of ordering the cake until she asked me if she could have one and she was so specific, she wanted an ice cream cake. So ice cream cake it was from Haagan Daaz (it was really good too)

On her birthday itself, she and her sister played the whole day until we went out for dinner that night. I just can't believe how fast time flies!

She is also the easier one to take pictures of compared to Nadiah who never wants to pose or smile for the camera! She also likes to keep her hair long to look like Rapunzel! Urgh ... I hate it especially since she goes to morning school. It is quite a chore just to get the hair ready!

The cake was kinda hard as you can see from the pictures so Ayah had to help. Nadiah was most excited I think.

This is the cake from Haagan Daaz. It has two flavours that is chocolate and strawberry. For the two flavours you have to pay 10 per cent extra by the way. But the good thing about it is, there is no cake in between. It was just ice cream!

In case you are wondering I got her a jewellery/music box. She has been hankering for one. I still can't believe she is nine!

Ali at the Barber

2009-05-06T13:53:00.001+08:00

I took Ali for his third hair cut today and nothing much changed from the last time. He cried and cried and cried. I guess the difference this time is that he thrashed around. Lucky he didn't try to grab for the scissors or the clippers!

Nadiah tried to get the best shot but it was a bit difficult. Bob's driver and Sam our family friend even dropped by at the barber to see Ali get his hair cut. Free show lah for today!

The best part is, when we came home I asked him who cried just now, he said MAMA! and even made a crying face! Funny!!!

But he looks much cooler now but alas he lost that masam smell I like from his sweat. He has very thick hair and sweats so easily sometimes even when he sleeps. What with the heat these days bet he is just as happy to have it all off!

The next trip to the barber he will be older. Wonder what it would be like than.

Khalif is 5 months

2009-05-05T10:22:00.004+08:00

Khalif is growing up so fast and looking oh so handsome! But still can't decide who he looks like, his mom or his dad. He is so fair just like his mom. Hmmm....

His cousins love holding him. Probably reminds them of how Ali was a few months back. Now Ali is so wriggly they can't keep him still! They all seem to have those big wide eyed look though.

And Ali was so jealous of Khalif. The girls kept bringing Khalif toys to play, baby toys like rattles and so on. Ali kept on grabbing them from Khalif and insisted on playing with them.

Khalif has started taking his thumb too. Warned Amir and Murni not to let it become like Nadiah who is still sucking her thumb at 7 and half years old! but they figured better thumb than pacifier.

See how he happily puts his whole fist in his mouth. Can't seem to get enough!

Oh ya ... he calls me Mak Long by the way!

Happy Birthday Najihah0

2009-04-30T10:38:00.003+08:00

My daughter is so excited cause tomorrow she turns 9. Time flies by so fast doesn't it! I look at her and can't believe how she has grown up right before my very eyes. And do you know that she looks different too. She doesn't have that baby face anymore. The look of pure innocence is still there but a growing girl nevertheless.

Being my eldest child, I have given her the best I can afford and I have to admit she is a little spoilt. I got my second child when she was one and half years and till this day she is still engulfed with feelings of jealousy. Initially when I got number 3 she was troubled with jealousy too and I had to comfort her. I always have to assure her that I love all of them the same. She is also the one to always ask me if I love her. A little bout of insecurity perhaps.

Najihah is also very shy, sometimes lack self confidence, doesn't usually talk to strangers and takes a long time to warm up. It is very hard to ever hear her voice and many of my friends have to coax and cajole her for answers to their questions.

Najihah is also the most temperamental and moody one of the lot. It is sometimes so difficult to please her. God forbid when she is one of her moods. Haiyah ... you would not want to be in her way at all! Her growing up years were not very easy for me as she is always throwing tantrums and she can get very, very stubborn. It has ceased a little now that she is older but not completely.

I am sometimes regretful for the way I reprimand her at times but honestly, she is the most trying child of all the 3. I have many times lost my temper and cool with her. Her stubborness and "keras hati" just rubs you the wrong way. I am sorry Najihah if ever I have hurt our feelings but it is not easy being a mother! (hahahaha)

But she is close to me and I dare say we are in many ways each others close friends. We do almost everything together except when she is in school. We almost like doing the same things (much to her father's dismay) and she is in every way a girl. She is soft and feminine. My little princess.

Can't help but remember the labour room and how painful the delivery was. The entire process was painful! Something that everyone has to go through I guess. Anyone who asks me how delivering a baby is I don't hide the truth but tell them it was PAINFUL. But isn't it oh so worth it when you look at their angelic faces.

I don't know if I am being a good mother but I am at all times trying my best. I just hope my best is good enough.

Happy Birthday Najihah. Lots of love from your Mama!

The Week in Passing

2009-04-29T13:43:00.002+08:00

It has been a hectic week for me. And a very humid and hot one too I might add. I have been so busy with life that I have not had time to pen my thoughts down either. Also I have been going through a rather hormomal time. Sounds corny but really been feeling out of it and simply not in the mood. I think it's the weather more than anything.

Last Friday I got on an aeroplane and joined my SISTA's in Jakarta for a buying trip. It was rather last minute but I am happy I joined in. I only stayed 2 nights as opposed to their 3 nights therefore I was not able to do all that I would have liked to. All the same, it was a good break and I did enjoy being away. But as expected Ali was sorely missed.

My friend and SISTA Elona who lives in Jakarta complained that the weather there was getting hot. A little too hot for her liking. I told her what she is experiencing there is nothing compared to what is happening in Malaysia. Just this morning at 7am the temperature showed 27 degrees already. What's up with that! This is a major global warming problem and whatever are we doing about it. You want to save let's try to help and to live without the airconditioning but without it on, we can't do anything else can we!

The weather is making want to have ice cream all the time instead of hot and spicy food. But alas ... such is our diet! Even now I can picture a nice cool cendol. Ahhhh ..... I must find one soon!

The most exciting thing to happen this week is Najihah's birthday. She will be 9 on May 1 and she is definitely growing up. She has asked for an ice cream cake and I will pick that up tomorrow. We will eat the cake a day earlier or even as early as Friday morning cause we will be spending the weekend in Bukit Mertajam. Initially I wanted to ask my sis-in-law in BM to order it from the Haagan Daaz in Juru but then it would be too much trouble for her so I thot' better to just order it here myself and order it early lah.

I have yet to buy her a suitable present. Suitable! Hah! I think I used the wrong word there. Honestly I do not know what to buy for her. I don't really feel like buying her toys and she has books she still hasn't read. Some of my friends suggested a scrap book. Not a bad idea I guess.

It is really too hot to even sit here and write. Oh gosh ... enjoy the heat wherever you are my friends...

All over Mekah

2009-04-23T10:43:00.004+08:00

Check out the view from the top. This was taken from the second floor of Masjidil Haram. Can't hide the cranes from the back. All along that back road construction is going on full swing for new hotels.

Isn't it such a beautiful sight!

This is Nadiah and me taken after Maghrib prayers ...

Najihah and me ...

Ah this is a nice one. That's my sis in law and my friend Siti Zubaidah...

I like this one. Bob and me after Isyak. The mosque is really beautiful at night. All lit up, bet you can see it from space. See all the people ...its busy like this 24/7

The busy shops around Mekah. They sell all kinds of wares. However be wary when shopping because the retailers tend to be a bit pushy. For example, they will force you to take a size or colour they want to sell not what you want to buy. When you don't make the purchase they get upset!

But you can find almost everything ... sejadah, clothes, pots and pans, kettles ...

I take Ali with me during Maghrib until Isyak. Its air conditioned upstairs, more roomy and comfortable. Also many of the mothers bring their kids. He enjoyed playing with the other kids, especially the girls! He even stopped looking for his mama as he was so caught up with his new found admirers

Right infront of our hotel some pigeons and the kids were all excited about feeding them. But they are not as mild as the ones in Perth where they feed from your hand

We didn't take the kids whenever we did out Umrah but we did take them to do tawaf sunat. At least to give them some experience of what it feels like. Ali slept in his carrier after the 4th round!

More pictures

2009-04-23T10:27:00.002+08:00

These are some pictures which we took all over the place during our Umah trip. Have enlarged it following the request of Miss Anis. When I look at the pictures makes me miss being there so much. Even with the chaos and hustle and bustle of Mekah, there is a certain feel when there. Not sure how to explain it but if you have been there you will know what I mean.

This picture was taken just outside our hotel on the way to the mosque. Too bad can't see the mosque ... too much light

This is Najihah at Jabar Rahmah. This is where Nabi Adam found Hawa and they say if you climb to the top, those looking for their "jodoh" can write their names up there. Insyaallah, there is someone for you.

This was taken at Hudaibiyah, the camel farm. I think I posted this earlier but its for Anis. It was so hot, we just went out took picture and sat on the bus again

A picture of my mom in law and sis in law, Ali, Najihah and me at Gua Hiraq

Billu Barber

2009-04-22T13:55:00.002+08:00

I finally watched Billu Barber last week. It was very colourful and oh so glorious! Surprisingly it was not a love story but a very heart warming story about friendship. And of course Shah Rukh Khan is sure to steal your heart away with his doting eyes and dimpled smile.

And he looks ever so cool in shades does he not!

Two childhood friends had lost touch with each other when one of them moved to Mumbai. The one who moved to Mumbai became a movie star (SRK lah) while the other, Billu, became a barber and a poor one at that. SRK decides to shoot his latest movie in Billu's town and word got out that Billu and SRK were good friends so chaos erupted in the village as everyone wanted to meet SRK. Billu was embarrased and insisted he did not want to meet SRK and even denied he knew SRK but the town didn't listen and they showered Billu with presents, gifts and praises. The town realised Billu was lying after awhile and made him an outcast again. Until SRK himself tells the story about friendship to students at a school in the town.

Go watch lah! Quite fun one ...

But I must admit that at 43, he does look his age lah. Time can be seen on his face. He has kept good care of himself, is still a looker with the killer smile. A more matured SRK. Is still and will always be the man!

Food in Saudi

2009-04-21T09:45:00.004+08:00

Any trip would not be the same without good food rite? And of course we had our fair share of good food there such as this ....

Or what is left of it lah! Lamb and chicken. Very nice .... there were two types of rice. Briani like...There are different ways of cooking the lamb either underground or grilled. We had it grilled and it was not so good it seems. A bit on the tough side. But we were filled up so maybe another trip.

They served it with roti naan and these really delicious samosa's! But how can we eat so much rice and have bread too. So we didn't eat the bread. We also didn't have any dessert although the dessert bar looked really enticing.

See how we hungry we were, we all grabbed and ate so fast!

The men had their own tray which I must say is much too huge. The women, there were five or six of us, couldn't finish our share. We kept on piling our rice into their tray.

In this lower picture, we were waiting anxiously for the food. We left the mosque after isyak and waited at the hotel before we went for dinner so by the time we are it was like 10.30pm. And we were all sooo sleepy.

Oh ya! Forgot to start with where this is! Bob has a friend in Mekah and he took us to this restaurant where they serve you on a "talam" (tray). The Sunnah says it is encouraged to eat together to build ties ...mengeratkan silaturahim. I forgot the name of the restaurant but it is still in the tanah haram area, about 15 minutes from the mosque.

Also, not all restaurants have dining areas for women and family. Most restaurants cater to the men only so if you feel like eating out, your husband has to take away lah. Even some of the fast food restaurants have separate lines for men and women to queue.

This was taken on our journey into Mekah. On the way to Mekah from Medina, we stopped at this restaurant where we ate from the tary too. The difference between this restaurant and the one in Mekah is that they served us fried fish.

The fish was really crispy but the bone of the fish was blue! I wonder why ....

They had tables of course but we opted to sit on the floor as it was more comfy and convenient with Ali running all over the place.

No vege is served but instead onions (raw) and green chilli which is really hot. Must be a different species from ours here in Malaysia. The rice is really soft and fluffy. I must say it was a good meal .... out in the dessert.

Another thing you must always have when in Mekah or Medina, the ice cream. The soft serve is especially good. It has numerous flavours and is RM2 for cup or cone. There is also gourmet ice cream MOvenpick. Sedap and creamy!!!! Yummy .....

Ziarah

2009-04-16T08:55:00.002+08:00

In many ways you become a tourist when you for your umrah or Haj but of course the Arabs don't think about how to make facilities and amenities more tourist friendly cause say what you want, you have to go there anyway! Hmmm ... thought to ponder.

During our trip we manage to get quite a bit of the historical sights such as Gua Hiraq and Bukit Uhud etc. We even got to see camels and Najihah even went up on one of them, willingly too!

This was taken in Hudaibiyah just out of Mekah. We had the chance to drink camel's milk and some of the others even brought bottles home. I didn't try it. Didn't feel like it but they say it doesn't taste like anything different. Still! A lot of history behind camel's milk. It was what our good prophet relied on alone when he was in the desert for days on end. Did you know that camels store food in their humps that is how they survive in the heat and the barren land.

This was taken just out of Mekah. You can see Gua Hiraq at the back. That is where the Quran was first sent to our good prophet through the Angel Jibrail. It was very hot here. That is my mom in law, sis in law, Najihah and Ali. Nadiah didn't make it as she was down with a fever. She was put for two days! Poor thing...

This was in Medinah -- Bukit Uhud. A war was fought here but the Muslims lost as there was no unity among them the story goes. This was also where Hamzah's heart was eaten by that woman, forgot her name lah.

From Medinah to Mekah, we stopped at a restaurant along the highway and they served us this rice pilaf kinda dish with chicken and fried fish. It was really delicious. The rice was soft and fluffy. They serve it with onions as salad and big green chillies which is really HOT!

Actually we did a lot of eating there. I put on some around my waist too! More pictures to come ...

Umrah -- First Stop: Medinah

2009-04-14T22:02:00.003+08:00

Alhamdulillah our umrah was rewarding and fulfilling. Our Umrah trip was a 12 day package. We left on March 29 and returned safely home on April 9. Technically it is a 10 day trip as travelling time is included in the 12 day package. We arrived in Jeddah about 8pm and went directly on the bus for a 5 hour bus ride to Medinah.

Checking in at the airport. We went with Andalusia. A very big and reputable travel agency but in my humble opinion, the next time we go (insyaallah) we would opt for a different agency!

The kids were really tired as it was night in Malaysia. We were all jet lagged too so we slept all the way. We couldn't even see much of Jeddah as it was night. We stopped to pray maghrib and isyak then we ate dinner on the bus and fell asleep.

Next thing we knew we were in Medinah and it was time to go for subuh. The first sight of the Nabawi Mosque is indeeda sight to behold! Only after the subuh prayers could I really take a good look at Medinah city and it is beautiful. I don't remember it at all from my trip there some many moons ago.

It is clean, organised, modern and very elegant I must say. The buildings are tall and sprawling. They have a lot of space so I figured that is why they have the luxury of being able to build that way. It reminds me a lot of Putrajaya.

The hotel we stayed at was a five to ten minute walk to the mosque. We can also see the Hilton from there. We stayed at there for three nights and did some sightseeing as well. It was also our first opportunity to shop in Saudi Arabia. The gold and jewellery shops will surely catch your eye even after subuh prayers they are already open and flickering in the morning light.

This is us preparing to leave Medinah and head to Mekah. We had to adorn our "ihram" here. The children were really excited about seeing Mekah. I don't think they completely knew what to expect the Kaabah to be like as they have only watched on TV and seen in books.

This was taken before one of the prayer times at Medinah. Oh ya! The weather was really nice too. Not too hot although sunny. Infact a bit chilly at times. During subuh it gets a little to the bone. Even the crowd was not very big so we didn't always have to fight for space like in Mekah.

We brought the maid too and she wanted as many pictures as I could take as kenangan. I think she was the happiest of all. Hahaha...

Leaving for Umrah

2009-03-28T08:18:00.001+08:00

I will be away for awhile. Not sure if there is an oppprtunity to update my blog but then I assume I would be busy doing other things where I am going.

My family and I will be going to Medina and Mecca to perform our umrah. Our flight leaves tomorrow, March 29, at 3pm and we will return, God willing, on April 9.

I would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any shortcomings on my part. To my dear friends, please forgive me for anything I have said or done. God bless!

Little Zadie

2009-03-28T08:14:00.002+08:00

My cousin Alia has just emailed me latest pictures of her first child, Zadie. I had updated pictures of Zadie at birth. She is growing up to look like such a darling!

Too bad Alia and Zadie live all the way on the other side of the globe in LA, USA if not I would love to cuddle this one.

Zadie and her proud mother. Don't they look lovely!