... oh my god!!!

I have migrated!

2010-04-16T00:06:00.000+08:00

Dear family and friends,

I physically am still here, where I am at the moment.

Just wanted to let you know that I will no longer be updating this blog. Please proceed to my new simple yet divine blog for my continued blogging escapades!!!

Been great blogging here, thank you for the OMG shrieks and links.

Be sure to update your bookmarks and links in your blogs!!!

See you at my other blog, ciao!

We're sorry, but you have exceeded your photo upload quota!

2010-04-15T09:36:00.000+08:00

OMG!!!! No wonder I have not been able to upload any pictures this week.
I have like tons of pictures back dated because I couldn't get any pictures to upload.
I have actually exhausted 1GB of picture storage capacity. Imagine that...

Need to take some action. Do check in again soon, will try to rectify this issue, I'm starting to have withdrawal symptoms already (for not updating stuff for more than 3 days)!!!

Tag... about me.

2010-04-13T16:34:00.000+08:00

Hi all, this update is actually a tag from Zarin from her lovely blog... Sweet... Sour and Juicy...

The tag is originally in Malay... I somehow will be updating in English, for the benefits of my International Readers... he!he! Assuming, no!no! make that Pretending that I have international readers.

SIAPAKAH ANDA DIRUMAH? literally translated as Who am I at home? Is this correct grammar, I dunno, all this translation business is so confusing.

At home (currently my parents'), I am Eti/Girl (to my parents, yes... still girl to them!!!), Mama (to my kids), Kakak (to the help), Kak Eti (to my bro) and XXX (to my hubby).

SIAPAKAH DIRI ANDA DISAMPING RAKAN? - what do friends think of me (my perception at least... or I hope)

Gosh, this is a tough one! Honestly, I have to say I don't know!
Friends out there... if you are reading this, please comment... it would be interesting to know... :-) hope it's all good tho.

5 BENDA YANG ANDA IDAMKAN TAPI MASIH BELUM TERCAPAI?
- 5 things that are in my wishlist - let me just make it clear here excluding shoes and handbags of course!!! ha!ha!

1. Fabulous flat abs
2. To be a SAHHM (new term I just learnt from my friend Nadd, Stay at Home Hot Mama!) ha!ha! of course no. 1 has to be achieved first right? :-)
3. A huge huge huge kitchen - SMEG cooker and oven & Kitchen Aid Mixer and Food Processor (is this considered more than one, but it's under my dream kitchen, no? )
4. Go to the UK and "return" to my University.
5. To be a blogger with an Income!!! Pathetic, I know but hey this is my wishlist after all.

SIAPAKAH NAMA PASANGAN ANDA? What is your spouse's name?

Wan Jack.

5 PERKARA YANG PALING ANDA SUKA TENTANG PASANGAN ANDA? 5 things you like about your spouse?

Honey if there's only 5 things I like about him, we will not make it this far... Ha!ha!
He's everything I am not -
1) patient
2) even-tempered
3) very realistic
4) don't crack under pressure
5) don't swear much

makes you wonder, how in the world he puts up with me huh? :-D , see point number 1!

BILA TARIKH COUPLE - date we started dating

3rd quarter 1999, I think.

KENANGAN PAHIT ANDA BERSAMA RAKAN ANDA - a bad experience with a friend

hmmm I'm not sure whether this is supposed to be a bad experience shared with a friend or my spouse while dating... I'd stick with friend, easier.

Don't think I have any major traumatic experience, thanks goodness for that. Does that mean my life has been boring??? Mmmm I don't think so, but I don't have any experience that could be severely labeled as "kenangan pahit"! As far as gruesome experience is concerned I would have to say SPM!!! Sitting for the final secondary school exams when I was 17, now that was one "kenangan pahit". I shudder each time I think about it.

LAGU TEMA CINTA ANDA - My love theme song

It isn't ours, but two songs have some significance while we were dating. Come on Eileen by the Dixie Midnight Runners (hardly a love song, but special to me nevertheless), before we were dating I think I mentioned it casually to him that I love this song because it always reminds me of my days in Kent. One day he called me while I was driving and asked me to turn on a particular radio station, the song was playing! Sweet!

Second song... Can't fight this feeling anymore by REO Speedwagon. I only knew about this after we were officially dating. The significance well, if you must know... the lyrics kind of meant something to him at that time... Gosh I think I have revealed a bit much!!! I thought sweet!!! (flutter, flutter of eyelashes! he!he! )

APA PERUBAHAN YANG ANDA INGIN LIHAT PADA PASANGAN ANDA - 1 thing you'd like to change about him

Give up smoking.

Tag 10 other people.

Gosh, I don't know that many bloggers... sorry ladies.. I'm attacking the same people again... but really your choice... to do or not to do!!!

you never know... there may come a time when you got the urge to blog but you got no ideas or like me this very instance, the blogger just isn't uploading any of my pictures right now even though I have days of stories to share... this is the time to pick up those tags!!!

ok, here goes... I hereby tag (read: would love to read your answers to the above):

NZZ - from Just my 3 cents thots

Ermayum - Life, Dessert and Matters

Lady Verde - our life

Marlini - Cinta Ridlis

Simple Scribblings

That's 5 individuals... ok, half is not bad eh?....

Zaim oh Zaim!

2010-04-11T10:48:00.001+08:00

Zaim on Wednesday morning at breakfast by the roadside. After he had enough of his nasi lemak, he wanted to get off the chair to chase birds.

Zaim, cannot stand still long enough for his picture to be taken while running around the room while his father was busy packing for this trip.

Zaim, wanting to jump right out of the bag... though I was hoping to pack him together with his father's clothes! He!he!he!

Zaim, literally fell asleep after 3 times of diaper change within 30 - 40 minutes, due to constipation!!! My poor baby! In the end, he couldn't say a proper good bye to his father...

Quesadilla Explosion Salad

2010-04-10T10:19:00.001+08:00

This was my lunch on Thursday.... Lovely! It's basically grilled chicken with cheese, corn relish, cilantro, tortillas strips and citrus-balsamic dressing. Served with cheese quesadillas. Oh, where? Chillis, KLCC.

Didn't finish the quesadillas though, coz I was heavily chomping on the Bottomless Tostadas Chips that we order on the side!!! Heaven, thanks H for the lunch!!! You Rock!!! Ha!ha!ha! Let's do lunch again when Z comes back to work next week!

Quick fix dinner.

2010-04-09T10:19:00.000+08:00

A few days ago, when I came home from work and looked under the "tudung saji", I saw this spread...

Let's see, there's Sardine fried with chili (sardin masak chili lah tu), Cockels/sea snails gravy (Siput sedut masak lemak) leftover from the day before (still supper yumm though), Vegetables in coconut milk (Sayur Masak Lemak), Fried Cabbage, Carrots and Celery and Salted Fish, Cucumber with crushed anchovies and chillies (timun cicah sambal kering ikan bilis). Pretty much simple dishes, a normal spread for dinner at my mother's. Simple as it may be, if you have 'em with white rice, one plate of rice will not be sufficient. Especially with the two killer dishes that are my favourite - the Sardines and the Siput Sedut! Sigh! In order to stick to my no rice diet I had to act fast and cook something else.

I remembered that I had this made during the weekend but never got around to preparing anything with it. It's red capsicums (red peppers) baked in the oven, and with the skin already peeled ready and waiting in the fridge. I know there's some button mushrooms in the fridge, so I thought I'd make some quick easy spaghetti.

After boiling the spaghetti, I sauteed some white onions in Olive Oil, throw in the mushrooms, add some fresh cut chillies, the baked red peppers, pinch of salt and loads of coarsely grounded black peppers (my fav!), and finally mix together with the al-dante spaghetti... wa lah...

Eti's Quick Fix Spaghetti Dinner!

My plate... of course eventually I had to add some sardines and I also had some siput sedut on the side... slurp! slurp! At least no wretched white rice was consumed that night! Phew! Close call!

A weekend that involved a dragon and a baby.

2010-04-05T16:27:00.001+08:00

Parents if you are wondering if you should take you kids to see the movie " How to train your dragon?", my personal suggestion would be... wonder no further. Go! go! go! If you like Avatar, your kids would like this one. Ha!ha! My personal opinion on the movie is that it's the kid's version of Avatar, not as strikingly beautiful, but beautiful nonetheless. Interesting storyline, an unlikely hero beautiful 3D animation, happy ending, what more can you ask for from an animated movie. Plus point if it matters at all, upon checking the website, I just found out the Gerard Butler played the dad! Wow! That's all I have to say! Ha!ha! Oh ok, America Fererra played the Astrid girl, I think that's what the girl character was. what girl character... well you just have to catch the movie now don't cha? It was just the three of us at the movies last Saturday afternoon, since the father was only due back on Sunday with the likely plan of an extended trip, I went on ahead to purchase the tickets later in the week. Thought, Zarif might not be able to survive another week of not watching the movie. Also I thought it doesn't hurt to spend sometime alone with Nayli and Zarif. My time at home is normally monopolised by little Zaim. So I thought, sometime alone with the elder kids would be good. Of course Zaim was not happy at all. Poor thing cried a little when we left for the movie.

I chosed the 12 o'clock show. Zarif decided to start trying on Nayli's passed down Heely's. Since we arrived about an hour earlier before the show, he had some time to practice. We spent quite a long time at Pavvy, which means that he had plenty of time Heelying around the mall, that by the end of the day he complained of leg cramps. He!he! Poor thing! No pain no gain honey!

Here's Zarif trying out the Heely's.

Ready for some 3D experience plus major popcorn and soda fest!

After the movies, we went to the bookstore to pick up a book for each of them, Nayli picked up another of her Wimpy Kid series and Zarif, his 7th Captain Underpants (yes, you read it right) book. He spotted another Book Series, Beast Quest, so he is in super hurry to complete the Captain Underpants Series to start on the Beast Quest. In case you are wondering what am I on about and why am I encouraging my 6 year old to read such a horrendous titled book... do check it out for yourself the next time you are at a bookshop. It is a really hilarious book by Dav Pilkey, great sense of humour and imagination, makes a 6 year old boy actually forgets his playstation and glued to reading! How can I say no to it.

After getting their books, we dropped by Toys R Us to get Zaim something, yes, his mom is super guilty for leaving him behind. Ha!ha! Then it was time for lunch, a rather belated one. Their favourite is the hot plate at the food court. Then, the three of us headed home back to our little Zaim.

In the evening, we went to visit Zaim's new little cousin. My SIL gave birth on 25th Mar to little Sara Fahmy, her baby number 5. Adorable little baby, that weighs probably as much as Zaim's left leg. Ha!ha!ha!

Zaim loves babies, even though it's way past his bedtime. He stayed up to see baby Sara.

Only Zaim was fascinated with Sarah, Nayli and Zarif already disappeared to play with Sarah's brother and sisters.

Fast asleep even with the commotion around her.

I could not resist picking her up even though she was fast asleep.

Zaim giving her one of many many smooches... mmmmua baby so cute!!!

Ok, bye bye baby see you again real soon, Abang Zaim would love to see you again soon.

Brow Raising Experience.

2010-03-25T14:52:00.001+08:00

Ladies, where do you tame your wild unruly eyebrows? I normally get it done when I have my monthly facials at 128... , my theraphist there does a pretty good waxing job, fast and painless. One fine evening when I had some time to kill while waiting for hubby I ventured to KLCC's Benefit's brow bar. I missed my last facial appointment and my eyebrows were in a really bad shape. I have known about this service for quite sometime, so I thought this would be a great opportunity to check it out. Took some photos to share...

Brow bar.

Apparatus all laid out

The instruments of torture... he!he!he! well, not really.

The wax, which apparently is Pearl Wax unlike supposedly the common Honey Wax.

Testing on my hand.

Zap... sorry it may be a bit icky. I forgot to take the before picture, and I was to "shy" to take the after picture. Suffice to say that I was quite impressed with the service, I didn't even need to take off my headscarf. Verdict : in case of brow emergency I will go back.

Michelle, the lovely Brow specialist who tended to me.

*** an update:

I forgot to include the Service Menu, since I have it available with me and since there's a request... :-) here it is...

Brow Arching RM38

Facial Waxing
Brow & lip    RM55
Chin & lip     RM45
Chin             RM30
Lip               RM25

Brow Arch Packages
Buy 3 get 1 free    RM115
Buy 5 get 2 free    RM190

Brow & Lip Packages
Buy 3 get 1 free    RM165
Buy 5 get 2 free    RM275

Gosh this is super duper promotion isn't it???
Well, be sure to mention my name yah! He!He!

2nd Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2010.

2010-03-24T10:54:00.001+08:00

Last weekend was the 2nd Putraya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Did you guys make it there? I did, and yes for the 2nd time. I guess it is would be an annual event for us. Love it. The hot air balloons are just beautiful don't you think. Pity I've still not been on one yet, still. Anyhow, it's still lovely to see all these giant balloons doting the Putrajaya skyline.

We arrived at the Fiesta Square at about 7:45 a.m yes A.M! That's the best time as all the balloons are scheduled to lift off by 8:00a.m. Once the balloons are inflated and lifted off, it will fly over to the other side of the lake and gets deflated there, and that's it, another chance of seeing it is only at 5p.m later in the afternoon. Making your way there anytime after 9 ish would be just pointless, if you wish to see all these balloons "up and away".

This balloon was here last year too! Cute don't you think?

Yes, it's a bit gloomy. Throughout the early part of the morning, the cloud remained overcast. Great that it wasn't blinding hot, but quite a pity for amature photographers like me!!! Even armed with DSLR and an extended lens... :-(

Up and away...

We were looking forward to one particular balloon that we saw in the papers. It wasn't around last year. When we have seen quite a number of balloons went up we were wondering what happened to that particular balloon when suddenly we spotted these people inflating something large and very very black. Then we knew! Wohoo!!!, and right in front of us too, talk about luck!

We waited patiently... (proceed to scroll down while humming the

soundtrack... deng deng deng deng deng deng.....)

Ok, break... there was this cute liony balloon inflating at the side that

caught our attention too.

Proceed with soundtrack... deng deng deng deng deng....

OMG, I am soooo excited!!!

And on the right side... Cool!

OMG, inflate already!

Hold you breath...

Huuuh!

Steady...

Finally, side profile of the Dark Lord.

Isn't that a beauty???

Lord Vader has finally lifted off!!! Wohoo!!!

How cool is that?

Cannot get enough.

(Lord Vader that is, not to be mistaken with my other "passion" :-D ).

Darth Vader reigning the sky... pity I don't have photoshop!

Nayli called this one, Bunch of Balloons.

We came with the grandp/ms. Zaim joined us this year too.

Now who in the world left their pair of Levi's floating around?

Zaim was blown away...

There were the paramotors show too, I think they were called.

Nice show, but still no sun.

Their 2nd time, braved the early morning inspite of high fever the

night before (yes, both of them!).

Once all the balloons have lifted off, we went in search of some food.

There were more food and beverage booths than last year.

Got some hot dogs for the kids and some Laksa Assam.

While we ate, the paramotor show was still going on over our heads, really cool.

Enjoying their shared bowl of Assam Laksa, after the hot dogs!

Zaim's milk time.

Yup, fed him right in the middle of the pathway.

It was pretty clear of people really.

He wasn't squinting because of the bright sun, he was merely smilling for the camera. This shot was taken by Nayli (either Nayli or Zarif. They took turns taking pictures from my DSLR, totally not satisfied with the compact, tsk!tsk! Might have to consider getting them one soon!). Yeah, right!

More paramotors about.

Nayli got these shots.

After our meal break, we walked on nearer to The Millennieum Monument area in search of cleaner public toilets for my parents, instead of the porta-loos provided.

They had more balloons here too. Apparently tickets were sold at RM10 per person for a "mini-ride" - which means, you get up as high as I don't know 50ft maybe then you are tugged back down again. B.O.R.I.N.G!!!! I want the real thing!!! Ha!ha!ha!

Still makes a beautiful back drop though.

There were this lie-back bikes too. Didn't check the price though.

There was also this Inflated Ball - strap yourself and roll down the hill thingy!

See the tent at the back with masses of people in it. That's the queue for the mini balloon ride. U-huh! for no lift off even... would you wait that long, plus no children allowed, bummer!

Im-Im and Me!

We gave the inflatables a miss this year. The day was

getting hotter by the minute so we left at about 11'ish.

For last year's pictures check out my update: 1st Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2009.

Exams and Underwaterworld all in a day.

2010-03-23T10:53:00.000+08:00

Last week was the 1st term school holidays. We didn't go anywhere since Jack wasn't around the whole week. I took the Monday off nevertheless because it was a big day for Nayli. It was her first Music Theory Exams - Grade 1. It was held at a nearby school. I totally forgot how it was for me. This time having my own daughter sitting for it, well I must say that it was a nerve-wrecking experience, perhaps more so for me than her. I sent her to the school, made sure she had everything she needed, made sure she got to the designated desk ok and wished her bucket loads of luck.

At her desk.

As ready as she can be, only the mother has problem leaving her, until it was announced that all parents are to leave the hall and wait in the canteen. Pfffft!!! The exam started at 9:00a.m and was scheduled to finish at 10:30a.m. I went home to fetch her brothers because I had plan a surprise trip for them all to Acquaria KLCC right after fetching Nayli from the exam centre. I timed myself to arrive about 5 - 10 minutes from the schedule end time, however I found her already waiting outside the hall. Apparently she left the exam hall at 10:00 and she finished 20 minutes earlier!!! OMG, Nayli are you sure you finished answering all the questions??? Girl, how was it??? Did you check your work at all??? 40 minutes to finish everything??? I know it's 1st Grade but 40 minutes??? OMG!!! Mama, it was easy peasy!!! I'm like... hmmm. Ok then, if you say so. ( Deep inside, I am super worried ok!)

Anyhow, let's try to lessen Mama's worry by going to Acquaria...

We arrived right on time for the Piranha Feeding Show.

They didn't quite comprehend what the big deal about watching this PIRAN.HA (initially pronounced as peeranha...) eating. Kids if the diver dive in to fetch them, the diver him/herself will become their brunch!!! Scary!

Electric ~~Youth~~ (remember Debbie Gibson anyone?) oops Eel I mean.

Zaim's first time here. Zarif and Nayli came about 4 years ago I think!

This tall tank is still here.

Happy to come back.

Then it was time for the fish feeding "show" at the main acquarium.

Just look at the crowd... it was the school holidays after all!!!

The divers are out or rather in the tank.

The diver gracefully swimming behing a giant stringray.

Photo session with the diver, sorry about the picture quality,

since flashes were prohibited in Acquaria.

Zaim was just blown away by all the fishes around him.

He had his meal while watching the fish in the main tank.

Just before we left, a picture with this skeleton this time with Zaim.

Same spot as at 25th August, 2006 with Pat and Shania.

We took this pictures at the souvenir shop. Went back there to look

for these lovely hats for Zaim but they were no longer available :-( .

Weekend Wedding - the Finale.

2010-03-16T15:43:00.124+08:00

Iki & Wanie - their wedding reception continues... last Saturday in Klang, this is the groom's side. Since this is Jack's aunty's house, we played host.

The lovely dias, the chairs looked like they came out of

the Beauty and the Beast set to me.

As hosts, we get to eat first, before the other guests arrive.

Zaim loves rice!

Zarif and Papa.

Going green y'all.

The main table and tables for the bride's family.

I was clad in green too! Like my new outfit? Bought it especially. Love it.

The girls having only fruits as starters. All seemed to be full still.

What I hoped to be a creative shot.

Jack, mom and aunty. Can you guess which is which?

Yeah, ok Jack's in the middle ha!ha!

Playing hosts, taking our positions at one end of the tent.

What's happening at the back of the house is a different story altogether.

Happy happy happy in his own world! Weee!!!

My very pregnant sis-in law! 8 months already and

she weighs exactly as much as me NOW!!! And I'm not telling you my weight!

Hunny Madu...

Testing the dias.

Group picture!!!

Nayli with Isha/Ika.

Full ~~House~~ Tent

The couple just arrived, I am ready initially armed with my camera, then someone shoved me the bowl of rice and fragrant leaves to be thrown at the couple as a way of welcoming them. Didn't the aunties were the ones who's supposed to be doing this. I'm not even in my forties ok!! Come on!!! I obliged though, even though at the back of my mind I was going... I feel so old!!! This is not right!

Ooops, watch it honey, careful!!

Don't step on the dress now!

That is actually a nervous laugh I'm putting on, I was actually pretty nervous at being given a such an "important" task! Way beyond my years!!!

He!he!he! So do I throw now???

Ok, all ready, but wait, where's the groom's umbrella?

There you go, nice and easy.

Told you the chairs are huge, just look at that!!!

Awww....

Wey hey... rock star wanna be is here to grace the reception?

Nayli happy snappy!

Ateh, Iki's mom blessing the couple.

Jack's aunt, the answer to the trivia earlier.

At the main table now.

Everybody feasting away.

Nayli and the twins finally decided they are ready for the main meal.

Green themed cake too!

Family picture... compulsory!

Our family picture... another compulsory.

Karaoke session - family time, starting with Asyraf (nephew to the groom).

Looked upon by his cousins and sisters.

Nie - Iki's Sis-in-law. (another twin sisters in the family, don't worry

I don't need to put a picture of Na the sis, she looks just like Nie!)

R&R time, after sending off the bride's parents.

Not so for the bride, more photo sessions. Lovely dress again Wanie!

Gosh, it's tiring being a host!

Told you the photo session isn't over yet.

Meanwhile, check out what's happening in the house. Total mayhem!!!

Somebody is making himself comfortable.

Remember baby Ali Zulkarnain from the previous updates. I took him to see what kind of reaction I'd be getting from Zaim. Totally didn't expect this!!!

He absolutely adores Ali Zul.

More kisses!

I'm happy!

I am king!

OMG! Zaim, that's part of the deco!!

Creative huh! He is kicking it around like a ball. OMG!

Who's paying for the rental of this thing, hope they won't come looking for me!

Totally into this "shrub-ball".

Taking a break with a box of raisins.

Smile for the camera Zaim!

More pictures with the bride.

Long afternoon, we are all tired but still smiling.
Until the next family wedding....

I was tagged and awarded...

2010-03-16T08:16:00.001+08:00

Beautiful Blogger Award by one of my favourite blogger Superheroes' Mom.

Thanks so much SHM, this means so much, you have no idea! :-D

Right, now I shall get on with the rules of accepting the award...

1) Thank & link the person that gave you the award. Yup, done.

2) Pass this award on to 15 bloggers you've recently discovered and think are fantastic.

Right, this is a bit tricky... not the 15 part but the recently discovered part. I will go with 15 and think that the blogs are fantastic... must be, since I have bookmarked them. Some of them may even have been awarded already... so consider yourself a multiple award recipient then! Continue your great blogging yah!

3) 7 things about me:

chocoholic
shopaholic
mad about chic lits
loves travelling
loves paisley patterns to death (on anything)
health & weight conscious and yet cannot say no to food!
cannot carry a tune at all!!!

Weekend Wedding Part 3 - from the kids' "point of view".

2010-03-12T11:30:00.000+08:00

Nayli, Zarif and cousins were given free reign of the compact camera last weekend. So here are some shots taken by them.

woops!

OMG! this is just "acting for the camera" ok!! :-D

Zaim, giving his special smile for the camera.

Weekend Wedding Part 2

2010-03-09T09:30:00.002+08:00

The wedding reception was held on Saturday afternoon. Wonderful bright hot day, no sign of any rain until the end of the reception. Perfect day to have a wedding.

As usual, no Malay wedding is complete without the kompang procession to start the march to the bride's house, signalling that the groom has arrived.

Guests at the bride's house were all waiting by then.

Iki's beloved sister wiping sweat off his face.

Nervous Iki? Yesterday would have been more nervewrecking I would think.

Just plain hot huh? He!he!

Big Bro's giving his advice was he??? Hmmm wonder what it was???

Here comes the bride, all dressed in white...

Meeting halfway...

And together they... braced the sweltering heat??? He!he!

They were quickly ushered into the tent by well meaning relatives,

cause the temperature was extreme!!! Good thing they chose white!

Not before they sated the photographers' needs.

Me included!

Nice bouquet!

More kompang while the couple headed to the dias.

Zaim holding on tight, the kompang was wee bit loud!

The main table.

Our table.

I brought to the wedding, my brother's potrait lens, so I tested it out on a few willing/non-willing subjects. I didn't switch lens when it was time to take pictures of the couple on the dias! Big mistake! Therefore, there are not many pictures available of the couple on the dias.

Zarif

Nayli

Zaim

Ali Zulkarnain

Hmmm chicken!

The couple.

Jack's aunty, blessing the couple.

Jack's turn.

Their big moment.

L to R: Timmy (Iki's brother), Jack, Ayong (Iki's B-I-L), Fahmy (Cousin)

Alisha & Tisha

Me and kids.

At the main table.

Cake cutting ceremony.

Here's me trying to capture the happy couple at a different angle.

The kids and the couple.

The beautiful cakes.

All of us with Iki and Wanie.

Congratulations to you both. May you have a wonderful life ahead. God bless.

Weekend Wedding Part 1

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

Last weekend, we witnessed the momentous

& joyous wedding of Fikri and Syazwanie.

Fikri or fondly known as Iki is Jack's cousin. On Friday was the akad nikah, which was held in Cheras, at the Masjid Alam Damai. Let's start from the beginning. We arrived in the nick of time, about half an hour later than the scheduled time.

Luckily, when we arrived, the groom was just about to take his place, in the mosque before the akad nikah ceremony.

Settling down.

The bride's turn to take her place.

All settled and ready, waiting for the big moment.

Wonder what's going on in her mind at the moment.

Practise, steady Iki!

The father of the bride, hmm good luck Iki, he looks pretty fierce to me!

Ha!ha! Sorry uncle, just joking!

The real thing! Akad nikah vows being exchanged between the

father of the bride and the groom.

Witnessing from the side.

The doa, after everything was over.

Iki reciting the his vows to his new bride.

Relatives from both sides, looking on.

Lovely mosque.

Performing solat before putting on the rings.

Kids in attendance.

Ali Zulkarnain and dad.

Zaim and Ashraf.

Putting on the wedding ring.

Awww, sweet...

First pose as a married couple.

Meeting the in-laws.

While everybody else were engrossed watching the celebrated couple,

Zaim was happy doing his own thing.

Wanie - had to ask her for a full length shot in her lovely dress.

Isn't it a beauty??

The pretty bride, a little closer.

Nayli and her twin cousins, Isya and Ika.

(Nope, still cannot tell which is which, sorry girls).

Wanie.

Iki & Wanie.

Group Picture.

After everything was over at the mosque, we moved on to the bride's house for

a lovely chicken rice meal at 4 p.m in a really heavy downpour!!!

Hanny (Jack's cousin) and Sheila (Hanny's sis in-law).

Can you just see the heavy rain at the end of the tent?

Zaim, happy and full I guess after his meal.

Me and mynamesake, and adorable little Ali Zul

(well perhaps not so little, at 3 months!).

Iki's parents and his father in law.

Iki, Atehs & Wanie.

Bride and groom, Groom's parents and their grandchildren.

Counting on the both of you(Iki and Wanie that is) to add to these lot!

See ya tomorrow for the reception, same place...

Missing home!

2010-03-03T10:49:00.000+08:00

Most of you may already know that I am currently staying at my parents'. Eversince, I went back to work 3 months after Zaim's delivery, we decided to pack up and set up "home" there for the interest of Zaim really, until he is about 2 (that will be in a few months time, but that's another story altogether). We rarely go back to our own house, not even on weekends. During those rare moments, we'd go, it would be to do a major spring cleaning or to pick up some (more) stuff. A few weekends back, we went back to pick up my cheque book for an account that I wanted to close. It was a plan free Saturday, so after breakfast, it was straight to our condo, and we stayed a little longer since the kids missed the place and whatever toys that they have left there.

Jack checking out his closet.

Zarif too checking out his shared (with sis) closet.

Nayli checking out the bookshelf in the "whatever that doesn't belong in the bedroom goes here" room.

Me, looking for the check book took all of 2 seconds, since the kids didn't want to leave immediately, I have some wonderful time catching up with my reading. At that time, I was still in the midst of Eclispe. Just for the record, I am done with the Twilight Saga. 2 weeks to complete the whole 4 books, plus minus work, missed reading time at nights etc etc.

Zarif found a long forgotten snake.

Jack even found some old uni photos... going down memory lane.

Zaim discovered new stuff, obviously he was too young to be aware of his surroundings before we moved.

A fuzzy picture of Zaim with a helmet on backward enjoying

himself in a different environment.

Nayli missed her Chefy stuff, she even discovered that she has outgrown her apron!

Zaim is just happy trying out this and that.

She started playing restaurants and starting asking orders!

Zarif couldn't stay away from the computer for long.

Since the internet line was cut off, he settled for Encarta kids in the PC.

Zaim just love the tent. Yes, you may say, a tent in your living room Eti???

Yes!!! Sigh! I do sacrifice my home deco for now and perhaps a few more years down the road for the kids... I can close one eye, and pretend it's not there! I can.

I forgot to take pictures of my kitchen - my favourite spot in the house. Missed cooking there. I was that engrossed with my reading. :-D

Visiting a newborn and mommy at lunchtime.

2010-02-18T16:23:00.001+08:00

Our colleague Z just had a baby last Monday the 8th. Her 3rd child, a baby girl weighing a whopping 3.71 kg!!! OMG!!! A huge baby by my standards, I mean if she were to be compared with my kids, even the boys. Pregnancy... was long, delivery... was not easy but when this cutey popped out, surely Z must have gone... awwww but that was all worth it, the whole 40 weeks! Yup, full term baby this one is, just refused to come out any earlier. We all think that's due to the fact that she is having too much fun enjoying all the food that Z was consuming throughout her pregnancy especially 2nd trimester onwards. Ha!ha!ha! Anyhow, Alhamdulillah, congrats Z for your latest addition to your family, so your hubby has got his complete "Angel's" now huh? Planning for more??? He!he! only time will tell... Here are some pictures when we went to visit at lunchtime today at her mom's.

Yasmin Saqina

Blissfully sleeping, oblivious to our loud chatters.

A little closer look. Adorable isn't she?

This is Z and her number 2, Yasmin Arissa.

Us, comfy cosy updating Z on gossips, well not me obviously.

Another shot, the photographer thinks he's being super creative,

taking a shot at knee level, WITH ours knees in the foreground!!!

Zailan looking bored listening to our gory details of delivery!!!

Madam Norlina, our boss having a go at carrying Baby Qina. I'll update my picture holding her a little later, hopefully someone brings his camera cable tmrw!!

Lunch was also served!!! OMG!!!

Fish curry, squid, fried fish, chicken, sambal belacan and mixed veges!Way too much Z! Please tell your mom, we really appreciate it. Hafiz said especially the sambal belacan! :-D

Dessert too!

I simply love this Puding Sagu Gula Melaka, don't you?

Fida - rep from Finance, and Hafiz - Planning dept wannabe!!!

ha!ha!ha! OK, Mr R.E from Subsurface, no less y'all!!!

Feeding time!

This is Tasha (Yasmin Natasha) the big sis.

Tasha & Sophia (Tasha's cousin), they can pass off as sisters though right?

By the time, we finally were leaving, Saqina went back to sleep... awwww!!!

Weekend of Twenties Girl and Twilight.

2010-02-17T13:10:00.001+08:00

I just love long weekends, even though without any travel plans sometimes they're not so bad at all. Last Chinese New Year weekend for instance, I finally managed to finish my Twenties Girl that I have bought two weeks ago, I think! Finally! It's a great book, Sophie K, is just a brilliant writer. I bet it would be a great movie too! I am so hoping, it'll be turned into a movie. Though, I really hope that they would keep to the story line to the letter, unlike the Shopaholic, it was a great movie, but it steered too far from the original storyline in the book, I found that a wee bit disappointing!

I actually had a great motivation to finish Twenties Girl fast. I sometimes like to take my time reading a book, either because it's a great read and I just want to take my time with it, or (I know that doesn't make sense... but sometimes I can take my time reading even if it's a good book), but usually, I would take my time if I don't have any book waiting to be read. Unlike last weekend, I had Twilight, waiting on my side table. Ooooh, I just cannot wait to see what is all the fuss about Twilight that compels some people to go on and on about it!!! Now I know! Hmmm I am simply stumped! It is really a good book, I may have spoilt the effect a little bit, cause I actually caught the movie on Astro already. I was pretty impressed that the movie was an almost perfect adaptation of the book, though if I would have replaced the Edward character with Collin Farrell in a split second (though it is quite difficult for Collin Farrell to pass as a 17 year old), sigh! Anyhow, the book yes I finished it in less than 2 days! It was superb!!! Very good writing I must say!!! Really made me "hungry" for more! Love it, love it.

If you wish to read about how Stephenie Meyer came up with the book. Well there is actually a story behind Twilight... read here. Here's a short excerpt...

The Writing: I know the exact date that I began writing Twilight, because it was also the first day of swim lessons for my kids. So I can say with certainty that it all started on June 2, 2003. Up to this point, I had not written anything besides a few chapters (of other stories) that I never got very far on, and nothing at all since the birth of my first son, six years earlier.

I woke up (on that June 2nd) from a very vivid dream. In my dream, two people were having an intense conversation in a meadow in the woods. One of these people was just your average girl. The other person was fantastically beautiful, sparkly, and a vampire. They were discussing the difficulties inherent in the facts that A) they were falling in love with each other while B) the vampire was particularly attracted to the scent of her blood, and was having a difficult time restraining himself from killing her immediately. For what is essentially a transcript of my dream, please see Chapter 13 ("Confessions") of the book.

Though I had a million things to do (i.e. making breakfast for hungry children, dressing and changing the diapers of said children, finding the swimsuits that no one ever puts away in the right place, etc.), I stayed in bed, thinking about the dream. I was so intrigued by the nameless couple's story that I hated the idea of forgetting it; it was the kind of dream that makes you want to call your friend and bore her with a detailed description. (Also, the vampire was just so darned good-looking, that I didn't want to lose the mental image.) Unwillingly, I eventually got up and did the immediate necessities, and then put everything that I possibly could on the back burner and sat down at the computer to write—something I hadn't done in so long that I wondered why I was bothering. But I didn't want to lose the dream, so I typed out as much as I could remember, calling the characters "he" and "she."

From that point on, not one day passed that I did not write something. .... Well, all I can say is that I'm really glad that Stephenie Meyer continued writing.

I am so ready for New Moon! Well, I actually just got the book this morning, so there is a tiny possibility that I might sleep late tonight!

Yesterday was Zarif's 6th birthday!

2010-02-16T22:57:00.007+08:00

Zarif turned 6 yesterday!!! Awww, he's a big boy now, next year he will be going to school. He is pretty excited about the fact that he will be "graduating" this year (at his kindy, that is). No birthday party was planned, but he had a pretty busy day, yesterday starting with a huge breakfast and a surprise gift.

Zarif's favourite breakfast - scrambled eggs, sausages, baked beans & sauteed mushrooms.

Tadaaa!!!! What could this be??

Woooo!!!

Ben 10's alien shirt - for those without boys in the family, this particular one is called Heatblast.

After breakfast, it was a trip out to look for his much

anticipated gift - his choice of Bionicle Lego.

While Zarif was searching at another aisle, Zaim was helping himself to his choice of toys!

Hey Zaim! Where do you think you are going with those??

In case you are wondering, we did manage to ask him to put it back at the shelf. Pheeww!!!

Much to Zarif's dismay, we couldn't find what he was looking for, so we went to get something to eat first. We decided to try this Mexican Restaurant that we have never been to before, Carlos Mexican Canteena at Pavvy. We had the Mexican Platter and the Nachos. Yummm!!!

The Taco Chips with really good salsa.

The nachos were full of meat! Really good!

Mexican Rice and some sauces to go with the tacos.

Somebody is enjoying his meal!

This huge platter consists of some enchiladas, tacos and loaded potatoes. Lovely!

Nayli enjoying her taco chips to the max.

Biting into his tacos.

His chocolate smoothie, a special treat for the birthday boy.

Me and my 6 year old boy!

Just couldn't decide still, so we went to another shop to look for some more.We did get one finally, but I forgot to take a pic!

Later that evening after dinner, it was finally time to blow his

6 candles and cut his Four-Arms Ben10 cake!

Happy Birthday to you!!! Happy Birthday to you!!!!

Enjoying his cake, oh, and in the foreground is his Stronius - Bionicle birthday gift!

Zarif was still playing with his gift right until bedtime,

whilst Zaim gets the box only! :-)

Happy Birthday Zarif!!! May you grow to be strong, healthy and happy.

And be a good boy too ok! We all love you!!!

Oh, by the way, by the time I am writing this, he has already managed to add another two more to his collection of Bionicles, thanks to his grandfather!!!

Zaim my little "everything"!

2010-02-11T08:53:00.003+08:00

My little - Ustaz.

Ustaz is normally what Islamic/Religious Teachers are called. Sometimes it is also a name often called to one who potrays himself as being a pious person or often seen performing pious activities. So take a look at this pictures of Zaim ... is there any doubt why he should not be called my little Ustaz???

My little - Handy Manny.

Our bathroom's bidet broke a month back or so, my husband bought a new one to replace. When he took out his toolbox, to fix it, my little handy manny was super excited to help.

Ready with tools in his hand.

Bang! Bang! Hey, I can recycle this Ma!!!

My little - Green Finger.

My father always works in his garden on weekends, and Zaim always watch his grandfather at work. Nowadays, he too wants to join his grandfather while he tends to his garden. If the weather permits ehem and when Zaim's mother permits, Zaim is allowed to get dirty and play with the sand and shovel. On one particular weekend when I was feeling rather indulgent and was really clueless as to how to amuse Zaim one long boring afternoon, I allowed him out in the garden even when his grandfather wasn't gardening. I even created a mini sand pit for him to play with. Boy was he happy!

Picking out his tools.

Hmmm slowly touching his grandfather's tools and looking at me, sorta asking for permission.

Oh mom! I am ready to get to work, why do I have to smile at the camera???

Busy! busy! busy!

Must keep my hands clean...!

My little - Cat Lover.

Zaim loves cats. Cannot get enough of 'em. If only he knew that these furry beasts could be kept at home, he would surely be asking me to get him one. For now he settles for any cats that crosses his path, like at this favourite Nasi Ayam Shop near our place. While waiting for our take-away orders, Zaim occupies himself chasing after the cat and pulling it's tail.

One smile with his favourite animal.

But of course he is none other than my little - cutey pie, busyuk-busyuk good boy mama!
I love seeing toddlers in their sleepsuits, they look so adorable, huggable and you just feel like crushing them for being so cute. Here's a series of pictures before he wakes up in the morning ...

Loves his chubby fingers... looks so yummy!

In the morning if I'm lucky he will wake up after I have taken my bath and performed my prayers, otherwise... havoc!!!

The cushion is his favourite thing on earth! He calls it Po! The big sis had "hankies" (handkerchiefs), his brother had napkins, he has his po. (don't worry, the covers can be changed, he is not particular about the designs either, thank goodness!).

My littlest everything... sigh!!! Dear Dik-Dik, Mama, Papa, Kakak and Abang love you very much!!! Mmmmuaaa!!!

Sunday breakfast with Pat.

2010-02-07T16:33:00.003+08:00

My special "me time" is really just a two-hour facial in Bangsar area basically. Ever since Pat moved to Bangsar a few years back, this two-hour escape has been slightly extended. This is because I would normally meet up with her either before or after to catch up. Since I am not much of a "chatting on the phone kinda person" (Pat can attest to this), these regular breakfast or lunch dates is really the best or rather only time for us to catch up. Last Sunday was breakfast at d'lish. Heaven!!!

Pat with her Big Breakkie.

My lovely waffles.

The two of us. Notice the brown bag? I got surprise gifts too! Love em'.

Thanks so much woman!

All wiped out! Ha!ha! She ended up finishing mine while I watched! Yeah sure! While I whacked hers, obviously!!! Lovely Jubileee, Pat will let you know when my next appointment is ok, how about introducing me to La Bodega? Haven't tried their breakfast yet. You said it's not bad right? Hmm, cannot wait.

Can you help me tie my tie?

2010-02-07T09:39:00.002+08:00

Two weeks back or so, Nayli finally got her Prefect's Tie. She was pretty excited since she has been going tie-less since school started this year, prefect's uniform without a tie hmmm quite funny huh? So finally her prefectorial ensemble is complete. But oh oh! One tiny problem, how do I tie it Ma? Hmm, yes Mama used to wear one of these to school too, but let's wait till Papa comes home ok?

Tieing a tie 101 in progress!

Loop it like so...

Notice Zaim's arm on the side? Yeah, I noticed it after I uploaded it here. Just goes to show, while the lesson was in progress I was in the midst of changing Zaim into his PJs.

Papa had to put on a tie on himself to get the knots and twist right.But woooo what a tie you got there! Hmmm where in the world did you get that from? Good thing I have not seen you wearing it!

Tighten it a little like this.

U-huh!

All done!

If my guess is correct, the tie has not be undone ever since... he!he! The loop is just loosen when she needs to take it off, hung on a hanger until it is needed to be worn again. Gosh, how long is that going to last? Maybe I should insist that it should be washed often, so at least she gets to practice tieing it often.

Finally I'm reading Sophie Kinsella again.

2010-02-06T10:14:00.000+08:00

I was at my favourite bookstore last weekend, and was browsing the chick lit section (but of course), trying to decide on a book, when my eyes fell on the display. Oh, Twenties Girl!! Finally on paper back!!! Yeay!!! So I'm reading it now, so far so good. I a big fan obviously... I have read all her books to date.

Zaim managed to get away with a book for himself too.

Zaim and Atuk (grandpa).

2010-02-05T11:43:00.001+08:00

They say a picture is worth more than a thousand words. So take a look at this shot, Zaim "performing" the solat with his grandfather.

A story worth sharing.

2010-02-03T11:36:00.000+08:00

Just got this in my email. I honestly cried! This is a sad but beautiful story... Even if it's fiction, there's lessons to be learnt here. Do take the time to read till the end.

4 years ago, an accident took my beloved away and very often I wonder, how does my wife, who is now in the heavenly realm, feel right now? She must be feeling extremely sad for leaving a husband who is incapable to taking care of the house and the kid. 'cos that is the exact feeling that I have, as I feel that I have failed to provide for the physical and emotional needs of my child, and failed to be the dad and mum for my child.
There was one particular day, when I had an emergency at work. Hence, I had to leave home whilst my child was still sleeping. So thinking that there was still rice leftovers, I hastily cooked an egg and left after informing my sleepy child. With the double roles, I am often exhausted at work as well as when I am home. So after a long day, I came home, totally drained of all energy. So with just a brief hug and kiss for my child, I went straight into the room, skipping dinner. However, when I jumped into my bed with intention of just having a well-deserved sleep, all I heard and felt was broken porcelain and warm liquid! I flipped open my blanket, and there lies the source of the 'problem'... a broken bowl with instant noodles and a mess on the bedsheet and blanket!

Boy, was I mad! I was so furious that I took a clothes hanger, charged straight at my child who was happily playing with his toy, and give him a good spanking! He merely cried but not asking for mercy, except a short explanation:

"Dad, I was hungry and there wasn't anymore leftover rice. But you were not back yet, hence I wanted to cook some instant noodles. But I remembered you reminding me not to touch or use the gas stove without any adults around, hence I turned on the shower and used the hot water from the bathroom to cook the noodles. One is for you and the other is for me. However, I was afraid that the noodles will turn cold, so I hid it under the blanket to keep it warm till you return. But I forgot to remind you 'cos I was playing with my toys....I am sorry Dad..."

At that moment, tears were starting to run down my cheeks...but I didn't want my son to see his dad crying so I dashed into the bathroom and cried with the shower head on to mask my cries. After that episode, I went towards my son to give him a tight hug and applied medication on him, while coaxing him to sleep. Then, it was time to clear up the mess on the bed. When everything was done and well past midnight, I passed my son's
room, and saw that he was still crying, not from the pain on his little buttock, but from looking at the photograph of his beloved mummy.

A year has passed since the episode, I have tried, in this period, to focus on giving him both the love of his dad and mum, and to attend to most of his needs. And soon, he is turning seven, and will be graduating from kindergarten. Fortunately, the incident did not leave a lasting impression on his childhood memories and he is still happily growing up.

However, not so long ago, I hit my boy again, with much regret. This time, his kindergarten teacher called, informing me of my son's absence from school. I took off early from work and went home, expecting him to explain. But he wasn't to be found, so I went around our house, calling out his name and eventually found him outside a stationery shop, happily playing computer games. I was fuming, brought him home and whack the hell out of him. He did not retaliate, except to say, 'I am sorry, Dad'. But after much probing, I realized that it was a 'Talent Show' organized by his school and the invite is for every student's mummy. And that was the reason for his absence as he has no mummy.....

Few days after the caning, my son came home to tell me, the kindergarten has recently taught him how to read and write. Since then, he has kept to himself and stayed in his room to practise his writing, which I am sure, would make my wife proud, if she was still around. 'cos he makes me proud too!

Time passes by very quickly, and soon another year has passed. It's winter, and its Christmas time. Everywhere the christmas spirit is in every passer-by... Christmas carols and frantic shoppers.... but alas, my son got into another trouble. When I was about to knock off from the day's work, the post office called. Due to the peak season, the post master was also on an edgy mood. He called to tell me that my son has attempted to
post several letters with no addressee. Although I did make a promise never to hit my son again, I couldn't help but to hit him as I feel that this child of mine is really beyond control. Once again, as before, he apologized, ' I'm sorry, Dad' and no additional reason to explain. I pushed him towards a corner, went to the post office to collect the letters with no addressee and came home, and angrily questioned my son on his prank, during this time of the year. His answer, amidst his sobbing, was : The letters were for Mummy. My eyes grew teary, but I tried to control my emotions and continued to ask him: " But why did u post so many letters, at one time?" My son's reply was: " I have been writing to mummy for a long time, but each time I reach out for the post box, it was too high for me, hence I was not able to post the letters. But recently, when I went back to the postbox, I could reach it and I sent it all at once..."

Dear Mummy,
I miss you so much! Today, there was a 'Talent Show' in school, and the school invited all mothers for the show. But you are not around, so I did not want to participate as well. I did not tell Dad about it as I was afraid that Dad would start to cry and miss you all over again. Dad went around looking for me, but in order to hide my sadness, I sat in front of > the computer and started playing games at one of the shops. Dad was furious, and he couldnt help it but scolded and hit me, but I did not tell him the real reason. Mummy, everyday I see Dad missing you and whenever he think of you, he is so sad and often hide and cry in his room. I think we both miss you very very much. Too much for our own good I think. But Mummy, I am starting to forget your face. Can you please appear in my dreams so that I can see your face and remember you? I heard that if you fall asleep with the photograph of the person whom you miss, you will see the person in your dreams. But mummy, why havent you appear?

After reading the letter, I cant stop sobbing. 'cos I can never replace the irreplaceable gap left behind by my wife....

* For the females with children:

Don't do so much overtime. If you cannot finish the work, it must be some kind of problems within the company, and it is not your sole problem. Feedback to your boss. Endless overtime may not necessary be the answer to the problem. Take care of your health so that you can treasure and take care of your little precious.

* For the married men:

Drink less, smoke less, cos nothing can replace your good health, not even business nor clients. Try thinking this way, are you able to work till your clients are totally dependent on you? or your boss is totally dependent on you? In this society, no one is indispensable.
Take care of your health, so that you can take care of your little precious and your loved ones.

*For those singles out there:

Beauty lies in loving yourself first. With confidence and loving yourself, you will see the beauty in other things around you. You will be able to work better and happier. Don't let
your health be affected by your work or your boss, so nothing matters more than your well being.

Catching up with Dela at lunch time.

2010-02-02T13:32:00.000+08:00

Last Wednesday, we met up with an old school mate whom we have not met since we left school, some 5 years ago! Yeah, sure!!! Ok, I give... since 1991! I need a calculator just to calculate how many years it has been. We "met" her again via FB! I know, sometimes, this FB thingy is really amazing. Sometimes!

Lunch venue: California Pizza Kitchen, KLCC

Food devoured: Portobello Mushroom Ravioli, Chipotle Chicken Pizza, Humus, Thai Salad.

Food : 5 star as always.

Company: Eva was an Accounting Major but left the Accounting line (for obvious reasons), known her since I was 12, Azlyn also was an Accounting Major but now a happy SAHM, known her since I was 10, Me (please read on) and Adela the guest of honour.

Anyway, Dela is now a doctor in Ireland. She was in my class 5 Sc 2. Has always been dead set on being a doctor, and was always the one in full concentration in Science Lessons and full of questions, when as for me... my two horrific years in Full Science Stream, was just because I couldn't decide on what I wish to be later in life other than a rich man's wife, and was told that being in Full Science Stream, will allow full flexibility later on to switch major when deciding on university applications. Blah! blah! blah!

Almost twenty years down the road, here I am with an Accounting major, having never done accounting at school ever, and Dela a full fledge doctor. I did see a tinge of disbelief in her eyes, when I said... my SPM Chemistry, Biology and Physics certification did not amount to much as in I did not pursue my studies in the "Science" line but switched to Accountancy instead. Having said that, I no longer practice accountancy because I find monthly closings and balancing of accounts became such a bore after you've done it a couple of years. Hence, the reason why I am now in Planning but that's a different story altogether.

It was lovely meeting Dela, whom I always regarded a tomboy, complete with a cap everywhere she goes. Now settled down in Ireland with 2 children and a hubby doctor. Don't know whether the Irish weather has mellowed her down or family life, I found that Dela was so mild mannered and sweet, yes truly ha!ha!ha! ol' CS girls out there reading... if you have the ol' Dela in your mind right now, well you better erase that. That girl is now a Mummy of two and no longer breaks out into Michael Jackson's number in the middle of a conversation. I guess, someone would a complete outrageous comment about me after meeting again after 20 odd years huh!

Dela, if you are reading this, I meant it in the very best sense, hope I do not offend you. It was lovely meeting you again. Do keep in touch often if only via FB, and let us know when you are down in KL again.

Eva, Me, Dr. Adela and Azlyn.

A pro-shot with Azlyn's lovely 500D.

p/s note to Alyn: we have to meet more often, so that you can take more close up pictures of me (so that I can use em for my profile pics) :) .

Wednesdays are now Glee day!!!!

2010-01-22T16:29:00.019+08:00

Did you all manage to catch the Pilot episode of Glee on Star World last Wednesday? Well, I did, and now it's in my calendar for the next few months. OMG! It's just fantastic. If you thought High School Musical was good, you've gotta to check this out. It's really good! Better than HSM (not that I love HSM but I have a 9 year old daughter, come on...).

For the 1st episode's short synopsis...

Will Schuester, an optimistic high school teacher, tries to reinvent the McKinley High School's glee club, while reinventing himself. He challenges a group of outcasts to realize their true star potential, while facing harsh criticism from everyone in the school.

Full blown synopsis... let me warn you it's unbelievably detail.

The show opens with a cheerleading squad performing a routine, it flashes to their coach who is timing them and asking if they think what they are doing is hard.

The Title flashes on the screen for a second and then a rundown blue car is seen driving through the parking lot, Mr. Schuester steps out and sees a bunch of football students harassing Kurt. He doesn't do anything, but tells Finn that his report on his summer activities is still late. As Kurt is being thrown into the trash can he complains that it will ruin his new collection Mark Jacob's jacket. Finn says "Wait," and instead of helping him holds his jacket as his teammates toss Kurt into the dumpster.

Mr. Schuester then admires the 1993 trophy for National Championship in Show Choir and is seen teaching a Spanish while Finn sits repeating the words and looking bored.

The school bell rings and Sandy Ryerson and a student are practicing "Where is Love?" Sandy begins to touch the stomach of the student as Rachel watches through a crack in the door.

A sign that says Coffee points at an ending machine as Coach Tanaka and Mr. Schuester talk about budget cuts. Then Sue walks in with lattes, Emma then takes gloves and clean wipes out with her lunch as her and Sue banter about cheerleaders going over budget with a nutritionist. Sue then leaves the room as Coach Tanaka questions Emma about a Singles Mixer. Emma cleans the table as she talks and complains that her number two fireman hasn't called. She looks adoringly upon Mr. Schuester as she talks about how Sandy Ryerson was fired. Mr. Schuester asks who will take over Glee Club.

The scene then goes to Mr. Figgins office, Mr. Schuester wishes to take over Glee Club, but the principal is complaining about the budget. Figgins says it can stay as long as Mr. Schuester pays $60 a month and uses the costumes that they already have. Figgins says that when Glee Club brings as much prestige as the Cheerio's (the cheerleading squad) he can have all the money he wants.

Later that night, Mr. Schuester lies in bed next to his wife and worries (through a voice over)about how to hide the money from his wife as well as getting the kids interested. He comes up with the name "New Directions."

The bell rings the next day and the audition process begins. Mercedes Jones, a heavy set black girl performs "Respect". This is followed by Kurt Hummel, the same kid being beat up in an earlier scene does "Mr. Cellophane". Tina C (a punk Asian), and Artie (who is in a wheelchair) then sign up as well. Tina performs "I Kissed a Girl" after introducing herself with a stutter.

... there's more but for the rest of the spoiler please check the link I've included below.

The songs performed were:

Can't fight this feeling - Original by REO Speedwagon

Don't stop believing - Original by Journey

On my own - Original from Les Miserables

Leaving on a Jet Plane - Original by John Denver

Rehab - Original by Amy Winehouse

To listen to these songs as performed in the show click here.

You gotta watch it to believe it.

(Yes, there are actually sites dedicated to this show with all episodes spoilers and songs!!!)

Episode Spoilers : http://www.tw.com/glee

Songs featured in the episodes : http://www.gleesongs.com

Stresa... stresses me!!!

2010-01-21T13:45:00.001+08:00

Just when I thought I'm done with my "fascination" with LV handbags, and looking out to other brands to salivate and dream about... I had to check on the LV's official website to check out someone's wishlist and discovered STRESA!!! OMG!!!

I have not checked out the website for months and also have not entered the LV boutique for ages, this afternoon at lunchtime, I happened to come face to face with Stresa (that I only discovered early last week) as I came out of the ladies on my office floor. This lady thank goodness, wasn't staff, or else I risk bumping into "Stresa" everyday in the lift, in the corridors... imagine the agony! She must have just finished a meeting here at our office. Didn't see her face, or even noticed her company tag, cause my eyes fell first on what she was carrying on her lucky shoulder. Sigh! My stresa... well no, technically it's her stresa but you know what I'm saying.

My first reaction was eeerkkkk!!! What's she carrying??? Already??? But I just knew about it last week!!!! Nooooo! But it's so pretty!!!!!! OMG!OMG! I am in love! That's it, there's no turning back. If I thought I was off LV, I'm back on!!!

Stresa PM

Stresa GM

Some facts about my latest... "if I have some $$$ to burn on a new handbag it'll be on this".

Premiered in New York several months ago on Louis Vuitton 2010 Cruise Line, Louis Vuitton Stresa is made in Damier Azur canvas. But the Monogram Canvas version has hit the market much earlier than predicted.

The new line is name after Stresa, a small town on the bank of Lake Maggiore in Italy and a peaceful resort for the wealthy. Designers manage to bring out tranquility and leisure from the graceful yet practical look as a long holiday in Stresa. I’m just crazy for its elegancy and sophistication.

With a convenient zip opening, the Louis Vuitton Handbag features two interior patch pockets and an interior D-ring. There are metal studs on the bottom for more protection and two flat handles to carry or shoulder. It comes in two sizes PM and GM with measurements at 15.7″ x 8.6″ x 8.3″ and 17.3″ x 9.4″ x 8.6″ respectively, which is enough to hold a A4 document. Louis Vuitton Handbags are great accessories for almost any ensembles, but The LV Stresa line is more suitable for business occasions considering the large space and durable material.

Source : http://www.louis-vuitton-review.com/

Oh if you are wondering, it's just a fraction of the 40K handbag, perhaps 1/8 th! Ha!ha!ha!

Tag from Lady L

2010-01-20T12:01:00.000+08:00

I'm finally taking up this tag challenge from my visit at "Little Parlour". Oh dear I hope I get some right!

Dear hubby, this is what I think I know about you, whadya reckon?

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen?

Golf Channel, Discovery Channel, Movie Channels

2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad?

Whatever that I'm getting - probably Italian or French.

3. What's one food he doesn't like?

Other types of fancy pasta, he can only stomach the spaghetti.

4. You go out to eat and have a drink. What does he order?

Warm water or Kopi O' Kaw (2X) Kosong

5. Where did he go to high school?

RMC

6. What size shoe does he wear?

Errr dunno! What size huh yang?

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be?

Err... Golf Clubs?

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich?

Eggs in the morning, Beefy ones for other mealtimes.

9. What would this person eat every day if he could?

Local Dish - Plain white ric, Spicy Oxtail Soup, Omelette (Telur Dadar with onions a tinge of Blended Chili), with cucumber and Sambal Belacan.

Western Dish - Lamb Shank / Ribs/ Steak

10. What is his favorite cereal?

Fruit Loops.

11. What would he never wear?

"Bojan" sandals.

12. What is his favorite sports team?

The All Blacks.

13. Who did he vote for?

I know but I'm not saying it here.

14. Who is his best friend?

Me - ha!ha!ha!

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do?

Shop too much.

16. What is his heritage?

Just Malay I guess.

17. What is his favourite colour?

Black.

18. What is his habit?

Loves coffee with his fag, and loves snacking.

19. What is he proud of?

Me?? ha!ha!ha! ok seriously his highschool background and his sporting achivements.

20. Lastly, do you think he will read this?

Yes!

Here's a chance to see how well you really know your husband. Cut, paste and fill in the answers, then shoot, you know what to do. The real challenge is to send it to your husband to see how right you really are. All of you reading are tag... with or without a blog!

The E.N.D ( Energy Never Dies)

2010-01-19T13:47:00.000+08:00

This is the album that we are currently listening to right now in the car. Over and over again! We just got the album, took us a few full spin of the CD to get accustomed to their style, and now we absolutely love it!

Don't get me wrong, we (as in my hubby and I) are not those yuppies with i-pods stuck at the waist and earphones while we exercise, since:
#1 we are not yuppies
#2 we don't own any i-pods
#3 we don't exercise much ha!ha!

We are not even followers of the music industry. We don't listen to radio much, even more so lately as we find that the radio announcers are getting a bit too irritating, one with particularly irritating voice, and we listen to mostly Fly FM and lately more of Capital FM since there is hardly any DJs.

We some old CDs from yonder years, we rarely buy new CDs now. My choice of CDs have evolved through the years, though I simply cannot stop listening to George Michael no matter what his extra-curricular activities may be.

Anyway, I bought the E.N.D album based on single after single from The B.E.P that we've heard on the radio that is just so catchy and great to listen to. We figured the rest of the album must be good... so I bought it.

Song list:

1. Boom Boom Pow - 1st single of course this goes without saying, this is just awesome, and even till now, you'd never get bored of hearing it

2. Rock That Body - nice

3. Meet Me Halfway - love it

4. Imma Be - catchy

5. I Gotta Feeling - nice

6. Alive - love it

7. Missing You - love it

8. Ring-A-Ling - catchy

9. Party All The Time - catchy

10. Out Of My Head - nice

11. Electric City - nice

12. Showdown - love it

13. Now Generation - love it

14. One Tribe - nice

15. Rockin To The Beat - nice

16: Mare - a song in Tagalog - really catchy!! - love it

Sorry for not being able to give other reviews other than nice, catchy and love it, the point is none of the song in the album is forgettable. Honestly, I am not exaggerating one bit.

You gotta have this album if unlike us, you have had this for ages already!

If your hubby is getting you a RM40,000 bag would it be this one?

2010-01-15T12:11:00.003+08:00

No, my hubby is not getting me a 40K(RM) handbag,... just yet! Though someone else's hubby did! If you have not received the heavily circulated emails just yet, then check out which 40K handbag this lady got from her beloved.

The bag and the lady, yes who else but the well known LV lover herself Siti Nurhaliza was even featured in this LVlover's website.

Source : In LVoe with Louis Vuitton

A quick search at the official LV website: this arm candy costs a whopping ￡7 ,450!

Product description as follows:

Richly decorated with silk and metallic threads – infused with bracing pink to really catch the eye – and crowned by its resin pearl chain, the Calliope makes a striking, colourful statement.

Size: 10.2" x 6.3" x 2.9"

-Innovative shimmering textile fusing metallic and silk threads
-Signature decorative engraved locks and studs
-Satin lined interior
-Pearl chain handle (though my friend commented that it is not unlike a bike chain! sshhh!!!)
-Flat zipped pocket

If you are planning to burn RM40K would you be "investing" it on this? Me personally, I don't think so, if I absolutely have to buy a (a- being the operative word here) handbag with all that money, I might go for something more classic and sober like a blag Hermes or Chanel. But then again if you are in Siti's position where you can afford to go, another black handbag? Then... why not?

The kids... last Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

2010-01-14T14:41:00.005+08:00

Last Friday, being the 1st (working) Friday of the New Year, music lesson for Nayli resumed. However, this time I would have to refer Friday nights as the kids' music lessons night as Zarif has decided on an instrument and started lessons. The choices were between piano (for an obvious reason) and guitar. He chose the latter. He was a ball of nerves that day. He kept saying he is excited and yet nevous because he is feeling really shy. All of us encouraged him as best as we could managed. The teacher (a young guy himself) was quite surprised to Zarif, his new student as he was his youngest student ever!Lesson was held in a tiny room, with a window. He!he! So I managed to take a picture or two. Poor boy, he was nervous as hell, I wasn't really helping by standing outside and taking pictures eh? He!he! I didn't stay long, snap! snap! and I left him on his own.

Zarif and Teacher Wan.

Full of concentration, or was it confusion?

Since I was in the music rooms area, I thought I'd take a picture of Nayli too, but unfortunately she's blogged by the teacher. Anyway, you can take my word for it that Nayli is there.

After lessons, while waiting for his sis to finish her lesson.

Isn't that a cute guitar? Fits him just right.

The next morning after swimming, as usual the kids would spend sometime at the children's library to exchange their books and read a book or two before we are able to tear them away and leave.

Zaim loving the pictures.

Feeling the bunny's tail that's made of a fluffy material.

Still reading.

Sunday morning, I heard a commotion outside, and I was called out. I ran out to find Zaim being wheeled about in my father's marketing trolley! So I ran back in to get my phone to take a picture. So here, Zaim getting a ride of his life with his Atuk.

MAXIS oh MAXIS!

2010-01-14T12:08:00.000+08:00

I have been keeping quite because I am deeply stressed out but my current situation of no data connectivity for my Blackberry Tour.

I'm super depressed.

I have been rather busy at work and all, but usually I would find sometime to squeeze a wee bit of blog update at least about the past weekend.

Ever since last Saturday suddenly, my emails, BB messenger and FB mobile stopped working.

When I called MAXIS, the answer was that they currently are not supporting my model and two other BB models! Funny, since I have been using it since October!

Perhaps they are updating their system, but WHAT IS TAKING SO LONG!!!!!!

Lunchtime today

2010-01-07T13:56:00.001+08:00

I didn't go out for lunch today. So I thought I'd get two pending things out of my system:

1) My Performance Review - for 2009 yup... compensation is on the way!!! giddyup! time to butter up the lady boss!!! (not that it'll work, ha!ha!ha! hope you are not reading this mam)

2) Ethics Awareness Training - an online thingy that has to be completed annually. OMG!

The second one is done. I am say 70% finished with the item one.

Now I am checking whether my posting via BB works. He!he! Multi-tasking y'all!!

p/s 1

Ok, so the update via BB email was successful. Though I am not quite happy as to how the two pictures above came out. So the above update has been edited via pc. Looks like, I still have to set it as Save as Draft only instead of immediate posting. Am I right to assume that posting via iPhone is easier??? hmmm no fair, how about us who are not "touch screen user"?, come on blogger.com do something... puhleesss!!!!!!

p/s 2

in one of the scenarios during my online ethics awareness programme, I was asked this question:

A couple of times a day, not more than a few minutes at a time, you log on to Facebook on your office computer, and occasionally visit other Web sites to check local weather, the stock market, news and other information. Is this in violation of XXXXXXXX’s computer resources policies?

Yes

No

What do you think I chose? and what do you think the correct answer was?
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.

Yeay!!! I chose YES! and that was CORRECT! Thank God!!! He!he!he! Pathetic isn't it? By the way, I have nevvver checked the local weather and the stock markets ok? He!he!he!

Are you sure there's only 24 hours in a day?

2010-01-06T18:04:00.000+08:00

This is already the 7th day of the New Year. One week has gone by, 3 days of work week. Things accomplished at work? Let's see perhaps 2/10 or am I being semi-honest and have not been listing everything in my daily to-do list this week. Perhaps it's actually 2/15? Sigh!!! So many things to do and yet so little time. I haven't even manage to go to the gym at all this week. OMG!!! This is so not a good way to start what was supposed to be a productive, prosperous and fulfilling year (or rather what I hope it would be)!!!

Where did all the hours go? 8 - 5 p.m at work seems to be a breeze now??? How come? When I was heavily pregnant, 8 - 5p.m seems to take FOREVER!!! I just need more time!!

Or perhaps I need more hands?

(ok, get real people! focus on the hands in the picture ok, that's not how I dress for work.

That's not how I dress full stop.)

Help!

No more 4 days weekend for me!

2010-01-05T10:17:00.000+08:00

Hurro there!!! It is my 1st day at work this year!So mummies and daddies out there??? Everything went well yesterday?? I saw some lists of to do(s) on FB before the big day yesterday. Did everything go well then? Heard some horror stories on the big day itself too? Hope by today it will be better for all. I haven't heard from home yet, so my kindy going son should be ok today, inspite being the 3rd year in kindy already.

So what happened with me yesterday? Took the day off to see the kids at school on the first day. There was no problem with Nayli my first one, since she is already in Year 3. We just dropped her off at the school gate, I'm sure with regards to fees and such, the teacher would be able to communicate with her and she can relay everything back to us no problem.

Came back home from sending Nayli with hubby, after having breakfast at this Nasi Lemak stall that we have never been to before! All because there was a minor traffic at the junction to go into our housing area, and we thought of taking another route when we passed this Nasi Lemak Kukus stall, it was then that the shoplady chose to lift the top of the steamer cover that had the sinful nasi lemak. We saw this smoke wafting up, I swear that did it for us, we made a quick decision to say yes go, a quick u-turn saw us at the stall choosing our sambal to accompany our plate of piping hot steaming nasi lemak kukus! Yes, I blame the traffic for breaking my New Year Resolution, i.e to not have local dishes for breakfast. Sigh!

So, after the breakfast getaway with hubby, we reached home to find that Zarif our Ben10 was in this screaming fits confronted by an overwhelmed maid and a really upset grandmother!! Issue : his colour pencils were all messed up, because it wasn't packed the day before! (ok, my bad there, but I didn't think he'd be needing any colour pencils on the 1st day of school, plus we paid for colour pencils to be provided for in class!) Anyhow, lesson learnt for me to make sure he is prepared the day before or else...

His class was suppose to start at 8:30 a.m. Managed to pacify him, shall spare you the dialogue here. No problem in the car and at school. Found the class and met his new class teacher. Left him in class, looking like this... (see picture below). I'm like, oh! oh! hope he'll see one or two familiar faces in this class cause I couldn't recognize any of the kids' faces nor their names on the list from his class last year.

When I fetched him 2 hours later, he stepped into the car with a big smile, saying, "Mama, I like my new class because I have 2 new friends! One from Orchid class last year, and another new friend whom I have not learnt his name yet!" I'm like, "Good!" (in my heart, THANK YOU GOD!!!)

But, 10 minutes later... Zzzzzzzzzz!!! Was that past 2 hours really that stressful??? I didn't want to go home only to come out again to fetch the sis, so we had a little mini picnic in the car while waiting for the sister to finish school.

Now he's awake, but still at reclined position! ha!ha!

In the afternoon, I had to go to Nayli's Sekolah Agama to handle her registration and all. Quite a full day for me. When I was not in their school, I am at home, handling the little pocoyo, because he is a bit under the weather. So he's like a little koala, hanging on to me everytime he sees me, just wouldn't let go. Even up till last night he was still up at odd hours screaming to be held and comforted. Don't think being a stay at home mom would be any easier eh! Hats of to full time mummies!!!

1st 2010 Update

2010-01-02T23:01:00.000+08:00

2nd day into 2010 already. How was your New Year Celebration? As usual, we'd try to stay awake till the stroke of midnight, but the kids gave up around 11:10 p.m and we gave up around 5-10 minutes before midnight. So, New Year was celebrated in bed all tucked in, comfy cosy even though, we actually can see KLCC and KL Tower from the balcony. He!he! Yeah, we're not really party animals. Ha!ha! perhaps when the little one is a little older, we'd do something together somewhere a little farther away from our bedroom & balcony.

What's your New Year Resolution? I don't have any simply because I haven't actually sat down and think about it. Ok, one thing that keeps popping in my head is to eat less. Not less meal times, but eating less at each meal time. I do need to stop having our local dishes for breakfast. Sticking to cereals and toasts. Must bring cereals and bread to work! Must! must! must! Easier said than done, I'm sure. Sigh! That's it. One major 2010 Resolution.

The kids are going back to school on Monday. Everything is ready for the new school year for both schooling kids. Nayli is in Year 3 and Zarif will be in his final year at kindy, 6 years old already. How time flies.

Added something new to my blog too, for this New Year. Can you spot it? Like it? Hope you do. Till later. Have a good Sunday tomorrow!!!!

Happy New Year!!!!

2009-12-31T22:40:00.000+08:00

Good-bye 2009!

Hello 2010!!!

Dear family & friends, thank you for visiting my blog the past year.

Do drop by often and leave an OMG shriek ok.

Looking forward to the new chapter of blogging in 2010.

Happy New Year from me and my family.

May we have a wonderful and prosperous year ahead.

God Willing, insya allah!

God Bless!