A Woman, A Mom, A Lover

There she goes..

2012-01-27T11:00:00.001+08:00

Iqa is now officially a student of MRSM Baling. We sent her off on Wednesday together with her aunt who wants to be with us at this significant moment.

Knowing me, I took so many pictures and I found it will be tiring for you to read this blog if I post them one by one. So, I arranged them in a slide show instead.

Few things to note:

1.Baling is not that far from Ipoh. The distance is just 205 km; about less than 3 hrs drive..but the road there is dead boring!

2.We thought Iqa will be the only student from far away but we thought wrong! We found out there's even students from my hometown down south Melaka and most people we meet were from KL. She turned out to be one of the few who came from nearby places.

3.Iqa had made me promise to buy her favourite K-Pop magazines when she's away every month. She said she wants to read them when she comes home. What can a mom say?

4.During the registration process, we saw a girl carrying a bag with words "I LOVE SUPERJUNIOR"! Another K-Pop fan! That made her grin..she won't be alone.

5. The junior college allows her to bring along her MP3. So, she can still listen to all her Korean songs whenever she has free time!

6.We didn't get the chance to tell her 'Homeroom teacher' about her Lupus condition; but after thinking it may not be a big deal to her we decided to juts let things be. I've trained her to explain her condition if anybody raise the issue and made her promise to look after herself really well...take medicines, use sunblock, take vitamins.

7. She really didn't cry at all when we parted; she smile so wide and that made us not cry too. I believe she's ready for the challenge. And our love and Allah will guide her way.

So, this is the slide show:

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

Iqa's big step

2012-01-24T14:33:00.001+08:00

I've been wanting to hide the big news but well..you know it's not easy. Especially in my blog.

Iqa 's online application to study in Mara Junior Science College (MRSM) in Baling, Kedah was accepted. It's a boarding school yes. She will stay there the whole time except when school holiday arrives.

We had always agreed about NOT sending her to a boarding school; me and the Mister. We are worried about her health. We feel she will get the best attention right here in our arms.

So even though we're happy for her it's not easy to break this news here to the public. What if they change their mind once they know about her Lupus condition. What if she can't adapt.

But it seems as at now this is what she wants. She had passed the medical check-ups and the specialist had written a confirmation letter saying that she's fit for boarding school life.

The junior college offers a new programme called IGCSE collaborating with Cambridge International and this is the reason why Iqa wants so much to be a part of it.

After countless worries and late night talks with my other half, we decided to support her all the way. At 12 she's already making a big step. And she will go further and further from us.

Tomorrow is her first day. All of us will go 400km north from Ipoh to send her.

Good luck baby. Our love will always be with you. I know you'll always be mine.

Today..

2012-01-22T10:53:00.001+08:00

Early in the morning

Najla asked why I married her dad

I replied..

because I loved him

(and actually never stop doing so!)

I'm waiting for my little sis to arrive from almost 500km south

and share some precious sisterly moments

I've prepared all the ingredients for

my first adventure in baking brownies

much to Iqa's delight

I'll start packing and labeling Iqa's belongings

We'll have some Tutti Frutti indulgence

as Iqa wanted

and to celebrate my sis's arrival

As I'm blogging, the kids are hooked to

iPod and Samsung Tab's games

So, what are you doing today?

PS: I wish I can visit this Cave House in Turkey!
Strawberry sorbet has never looked this tempting!
Just sharing some wonderful stuffs I found today..
Happy Sunday sweethearts!

The busiest January. Ever.

2012-01-21T05:27:00.001+08:00

January had never been this busy for me.

It's all about Iqa these few weeks. School procedures. Medical check-ups. Changing appointment dates. Buying truckload of stuffs for her. Some housekeeping training. Endless discussions with The Mister. All about her. Anxiety, worries..huh.

Sales chasing forced to start whether I'm ready or not. But I take it as something associated with fun. Distributing Chinese New Year hampers and exchanging greetings while subtly looking for sales.

Najid joins Boy Scouts..and to our surprise Golf Club!

Najla begins her formal reading lessons; she has homework every day..reading homework. It's amazing that reading technique changes from time to time. The way she learns is so much different from her siblings. She enjoys it anyway!

2012 promises many different stuffs for us so far from what I can see now. They look interesting enough for me. Anticipation is cool.

PS: Now that we'll have a long weekend (Chinese New Year is on Monday and Tuesday) I really feel like baking this brownies!

The Korean influence

2012-01-16T05:40:00.000+08:00

My 12-plus girl sure is crazy about Korean pop culture at the moment..we call it K-pop here!

She listens to their songs in her I-Pod.
She watched Korean programmes (game shows, talk shows, concerts, music..whatever Korean!) on TV..amazingly our TV now has special Korean channel dedicated to all things Korean!
She influenced her siblings to eat noodles with chopsticks the way the Koreans do.
She starts to self-learn Korean language from internet. (She even wrote in Korean for my birthday card!)
She fights with little Najla over some handsome boy of the pop band! (Najla is only 4-plus..just imagine 20 years down the road!)

And this is a peek in her room..

She sleeps with the boys every night...the pillow is a treasured gift by her aunt MakLong Filzah.

She used her own pocket money for this one!

(Did she remember I told her I had a Michael Jackson scrapbook when I was her age?)

She spotted a mag store in town who keeps this special key-chains

This is her must-have item every month!

The free service

2012-01-14T17:35:00.000+08:00

Najla had been nagging about my dirty car for weeks. She offered her 'washing service' many times but always our weekends were occupied with other activities.

Last week I finally said yes. She was so delighted she asked her 'washing gang' to join.

And they clearly had fun!

The rubber hose had holes all over; so they splashed water using pail..the old way!

It was a win-win situation.

They had good times. And I had a clean, shiny car.

I should use the free service more often. Time is hard okay!

Uncomfortable is good..

2012-01-11T21:56:00.000+08:00

Work-wise, looks like 2012 doesn't promise an easy path for me.

We just had our first sales meeting of the year.

The first thing I dread was not having a room mate anymore this time around. All I could imagine was the extreme loneliness and boredom the whole night. My regular room partner and I used to chat and giggle girly stuffs and indulge in cakes at night!

The main thing that add to the sore is the fact that my employer announced a more difficult sales incentive plan this year onwards. The amount promised is much lesser; and furthermore they make it harder to achieve.

But beneath all this somebody's words suddenly came clear in my mind. If you feel uncomfortable, then you're in the right path.

True enough, spending the night alone was not actually that bad. I got to work out, enjoyed few movies and had enough much-needed sleep. I woke up feeling energized and ready for the day the next morning.

As for the sales incentive, I've had deep thoughts about it as I drove the 300km home. I just have to start going out of my comfort zone. Challenges will keep me growing..I just can't imagine being comfortable; the boredom will kill my soul.

So, welcome 2012 and all it's difficulties. I'm here with open arms.

Happy news

2012-01-07T10:59:00.000+08:00

We just got a good news for Iqa yesterday. I'm trying hard not to reveal until the day arrives. We're going to be busy from now on due to the many procedures and preparation needed.

We're so happy for her but at the same time can't help feeling sad.

Okay, okay. Enough. I can't tell yet!

One thing to do this year..

2012-01-06T06:13:00.002+08:00

Sounds like a good resolution eh?

The secondary years begin..

2012-01-04T13:55:00.003+08:00

When we first moved in Ipoh, Iqa was just beginning the first year of her Primary School years. I can still remember how she looked like..the tiny girl with Chinese eyes and 'China doll' hair style in her school uniform of white tunic blouse and dark blue sarong.

Fast forward after 5 years, she is now no longer tiny but as tall as I am. And today she begins her Secondary School years.

Can you read "Mom, seriously! Pictures again?"

The turqoise sarong and shoes with laces she wanted so much (Zap-on ones are no longer cool!)

This means she is entering a new era too. More serious academic years are coming to determine her future!

This year, all my three kids are in different schools..Iqa and Najid used to be in the same one. Three different challenges. Najla will start learning reading seriously in kindergarten. We also have started to send Najid to a home-based teacher for one-to-one coaching twice a week in the evenings to prepare him for harder lessons in school.

First day of 2012 school term begins today. And so tomorrow I'll be back to the rat race again!

Hello 2012

2012-01-01T06:28:00.001+08:00

I haven't got over 2011 yet..still swimming in the river of memories..but I welcome 2012 with open heart. I always have mixed feeling when it comes to opening a new calendar chapter; feeling reluctant to bid farewell to the previous year but still anxious to discover what's in store for me once the new book opens.

Not wanting to let go 2011 easily, I've created a photo scrapbook full of stuffs I won't want to forget so that my kids can enjoy and cherish the memories.

I have to split the book into 2 sections as I added more and more pages and the book gets thicker and thicker. The first half is complete; but the second one have to wait as the local craft store runs out of the 12x12 plastic page protectors.. so I need to wait for the imported stocks to arrive.

And while waiting I've made myself a 2012 work planner by recycling an old leather diary cover. The inserts I printed from various websites that offer free calendar printables. Why didn't I think of that in the previous years? It's so easy to make and I can personalize it as much as I want, adding my favourite patterns papers for the page dividers and making use of beautiful stuffs Zanas sent me earlier.

Now that looks like I'm heading for a much more organized and joyful year already!

Happy new Year darlings!

Good-bye 2011

2011-12-31T06:35:00.000+08:00

You're finally going to be history, 2011. Thank you for an eventful year. For the bittersweet memories. For the love and joy you brought. For the lessons learned. For the mistakes and guilt. We sure will learn form you and move on.

We had two weddings in the family; one at the very early and one at the end of the year. Our family went through them with mixed emotions as we cope with dad's condition. My dad will never be the same but we the kids have to move on with life. New chapters need to open..with new challenges and adventures. Some of the things we did are wrong but I'm sure they are all fated and we'll learn from them.

I hold a new position career-wise this year which will be my last station as I can't see me taking further challenge. As a working mom, it's crucial for me to balance career with family and this is my choice. I won't take more responsibility than I can. Family means more to me.

The mister's career is getting more challenging but also more rewarding. I witnessed him growing and blooming..and that only means better future for us!

2011 also saw the kids growing to a different level. They get more challenges in education. Individually they start developing their own personality too. It's heart-warming and satisfying to see them through. Iqa did well in her UPSR exam; Najid is struggling but we had identified his strength and weakness..Najla is so far up to our expectations. So much more we need to do. But we'll do it with love for sure.

So, 2012 will come and then go. Age will climb. Memories will be made. And history will be created. Thank you Allah for all the blessings.

Year end activities

2011-12-30T03:38:00.000+08:00

Can't believe 2011 is coming to its end!

Right here, we've been having fun at home enjoying all the time we have..not wanting to let the holidays go too fast!

The kids are all about gadgets these days. The TV is always on but none of them seem to care what's on it:
Iqa is crazy about her new IPod..her dad's present for getting good results in the exam
Najid and Najla take turns switching from playing games on either their dad's new Samsung Galaxy Tab or PSP!

And as for me..I've been on a cooking mission..I try to cook and bake as much as I can..inspired by TV programme Masterchef and the many days of cooking back when we were in my parents house!

Another blog magic

2011-12-26T06:04:00.001+08:00

Blogging had sprinkled its magic again on my sister's wedding early this month.

She struck luck when a kind blog friend of hers (also mine!), Ampivia who operated an online cake house offered to sponsor her wedding cake. I came to know Ampivia (she is based in JB) when she started following my progress after learning about me recovering from a car accident back in 2009 from my sis. She was one of those angels who kept giving me encouraging comments in my recovery path. And I later discover what a truly wonderful person she is..

After online messaging exchange and lots of phone text messages..we finally met on my sister's wedding.

The cake is as sweet as her!

She didn't only drop the cake, she joined me with the after-wedding cleaning too! I kept telling myself, how sweet that was..it was her first time meeting us and she went all out to give a helping hand. I love those moment in the kitchen with her; when we chat and chat and chat like we've known each other for ages!

Blogging to me is really a powerful and magical side of the world. It gives me friendship and inexplicable pleasure. I found wonderful people here through my blog.. and that means all of you who's reading this too!

Ampivia is getting married next year..and guess what..she and her husband will settle down in Perak, the state we're living in now. What a small world..we can be neighbours after this!

I'm blessed and grateful. More magical moments coming I'm sure!

The Aquaria

2011-12-24T06:07:00.000+08:00

We had been wanting to visit many educational places in the KL city for so long but there's so many obstacles. This time we simply chose to go to the Aquaria in KLCC without thinking much.

Cameras are allowed with no flash!

We couldn't explore Petrosains since tickets are sold out on that day..arrrgghhh!!!

This means we're gonna come back again one day!

Just because I'm SOOO stressed at work..

2011-12-21T06:48:00.000+08:00

I start to dream for a family vacation..
somewhere overseas, with cosy hotel room and fun swimmping pool..

I start to create a shopping list in my mind..
I-Phones, handbags, new work wear, new sunglasses..
They're all in!

I start to plan
pages and pages of scrapbooking
waiting for some free time to make them reality

I start to wish for miracle
in term of sales
financial
and kindness.

The train experience

2011-12-20T05:30:00.001+08:00

After my sis's wedding two weeks ago, we managed to steal some time to bring the kids to Aquaria in KLCC and decided to go there by LRT (Light Rail Transit), a public transport medium they have never experienced before.

At first, all of us need to stand. It was a weekday but not the peak hour yet..I can imagine how crowded it will be at those times!

Sarah, my niece joined us for the trip

It had been ages since we had this LRT ride..so there's many changes and the Mister had to ask the officer for clarifications

The sweet young things and the sweet old thing!

Before going back, we tried the monorail

It was less congested and we finally got seats!

Next: The Aquaria!

Beautiful stuffs

2011-12-18T17:30:00.003+08:00

I'm holding some beautiful stuffs in my hand today. They warm my heart. They make me smile. And feel like I'm the luckiest person in the world.

Handmade birthday cards by my kiddos!

Iqa drew our faces on hers

Her wishes included Korean words as she is trying to self-learn the language (she's into K-Pop now!). Najla sketched me..yes, the one with pigtails!

Najid's card with the words from his heart

Zanas , my sweet blog friend from Singapore sent me a package full of sweet scrapbooking stuffs!

Beautiful cardstocks to satisfy my scrapbooking obsession!

A book on scrapbooking that my sister bought for me. She was at a book fair and immediately remember me when she saw this book!

Beautiful inspiration!

Thank you my lovely kids, sweet Zanas and my adorable sister. You made my life beautiful!

The last of the 30s begins..

2011-12-16T21:57:00.000+08:00

Thanks for all your kind birthday wishes. You can imagine how I smiled from ear to ear. Oh yeah. There's a picture of me down there already.

I'm finally reaching the last year before joining the '4 series' club.

Yay. That's a real yay!

I woke up to find two beautiful hand-made cards laid on the shelf by my cute kids..they came with words from their hearts..what a way to wake up.Heaven! I'll show you the pics when I'm done admiring them!

I got over 40 birthday wishes in FB..thanks to FB ways of announcing your birthdays to everyone..something I never got even when I was a sweet young thing!

I bought a Baskin Robins ice-cream cake to celebrate with the family..it's strawberry cheese flavour..at first saying no when the girl asked if I need candles! 3 big candles and 9 small ones sound too many for me..quiet embarassed by the numbers..but changed my mind when I remember how the kids love candle-blowing..

We'll go to the movies tomorrow for Alvin and the Chipmunks 3; to me it's another way of celebrating my new age..hehe.

And after that I'll be going back to my routine...house chores and hopefully some scrapbooking!

Happy weekend guys!

38 was beautiful

2011-12-15T05:55:00.001+08:00

Today is the last day for me being 38. It was a beautiful year.

I had some sort of art explosion this year.

Fell in love with the idea of having art on my house wall after the Vietnam trip..and finally bought my first one from a local home decor store.

Tried my hands on home decorating..with my own style, my own way. Still need to be polished.

Tried venturing into an art called decoupage; only to find that it's not really what I wanted.

Tried to learn sewing, but had to stop after 4 classes since it's interfering with my work hours..and I don't feel like making 'baju kurung' anyway. I may invest on buying a sewing machine and try to sew a curtain instead since I had already know how to operate a sewing machine. There's many tutorials on the internet I can follow. One day I'll make my dream curtain!

Started liking scrapbooks and still crazy about it. I realized that at the age of 12 I actually had already created my own scrapbook on Michael Jackson..so the craze is always inside me. This time I'm more into preserving memories with photos of my family.

I'm also into a little bit of fashion this year..hahahaha..

I started to like wedges and shoes with slight heels.

I keep more bracelets and chunky rings to uplift my spirit at work.

I love prints and long dresses.

I don't exercise as much and keep putting on weight..yikes!

But above all..I'm truly happy being 38. I appreciate myself more..and I'm content with the love ring around me.

Thank you 38. And good-bye!

After one year..

2011-12-14T06:18:00.000+08:00

Dad with his close cousin, Uncle Maarof

It has been a year since dad entered the world of a stroke patient. He had improved tremendously; no longer relying on us for basic stuffs. His left limbs are still not as strong but the rest of his body is fine.

But you can't expect for 100% recovery.

He's no longer himself. His demands are sometimes impossible and his attitude had changed so much. He does things that we can never imagine he will do in his life. I understand now that we need huge amount of patience dealing with him.

We love you dad, no matter what.

All according to mom's dreams

2011-12-07T08:16:00.000+08:00

My sister's wedding is the last one in the family. Mom had dreamed to make it grand and big. Instead of following the current norm to have it in a community hall, she insisted to have it at home with home cooking and no catering service. Traditionally, Malay weddings involved the whole village and relatives to cook and do preparations together. We freaked out as that means huge work to be done and messy household. Nowadays, it's not easy to get neighbours to help out..even relatives live far away from each other.

But mom hears no objection. It's her dream project. She knows what to plan and she finally made it perfect!

Our cousin led the cooking team

My kids are part of the work force to assemble goodie bags

Mom with 'bunga telur'.. thank God she decided these she will buy ready made; not prepare from scratch!

The theme is soft blue

Neigbours came helping out

Cousins preparing special meals for the bride's table

Mom's group of Yassin recital

The throne for the bride and bridegroom..mom got the best wedding planner in town to set it and it wowed everyone!

Mom decided we need a long line of tent for guests so that they won't be crowded

She even added the best chicken roaster in town to serve..the chicken was a hit among guests!

She chose professional photographer to capture my sis in best poses on her special day

There was enough buffet trays..two separate lines so that guests won't jam in at one place only

The bride's lunch area was made special..plus my sis was lucky to have a blogfriend sponsoring her wedding cake!

There's karaoke spot for relatives to hang out and have some fun in between helping. This is my notoriuos little brother!

There..her work is done and she deserves the praise!

We salute you mom..you had done the best!

Those smiles..

2011-12-05T08:05:00.000+08:00

Married in blue..

The tradition..after the guests left, they are tortured into washing the big pots!

Can you feel the love?

For my sis!

2011-12-01T12:06:00.000+08:00

Hi you peeps!

Busy at the moment for my sis's wedding day..Malay weddings are crazily busy and complicated! Taking leave for a week and cooking and cleaning and doing stuffs like never before.

Will keep you posted!

Leaving Boyhood

2011-11-22T22:43:00.000+08:00

Today, Najid had underwent a procedure called circumcision.

We do it for religious reason and for his own good too. This will also mean he's no longer a little boy but on his way to the world of maturity.

We chose the best method we can find; laser surgery by a paediatric surgeon even though it may be costly. He's our only son and we think he's worth it. At the moment he's coping fine; and hopefully recovery will be fast.

PS: We're currently away from Ipoh..all of us are in Melaka together to help him recover in a loving environment; with grandma and cousins around!

Najla's School Concert

2011-11-20T12:17:00.001+08:00

I was a truly busy mom this week. It's the last week of school and the schools had award-giving ceremonies one school after another, plus concerts, UPSR results announcement and Najid's birthday. Pheww... It's a good thing that my work hour is flexible, so I can run here and there and still do some sales in between.

I'm happy that I can be present at all the school events; I know it means a lot to each of my kids.

Najla in a dance act..why did she look so big here?

She bagged some awards too!

Since Najla is just 4, I will have many, many more years of attending stuffs like this...Each time marveling at how fast she had grown and wondering what will be left for me when she's over all these one day!

Leaving you her dance video!

Untitled from hanani liza on Vimeo.

9 already!

2011-11-19T03:34:00.002+08:00

Najid woke up super happy and super fresh yesterday. It was the last day of school for year 2011..and it's also his birthday. He asked me to give him a small celebration with his close friends at the religious school (the secular school doesn't allow cakes and birthday celebration!).

And he insisted on an Angry Bird cake!

Before we left his friends, I asked Najid to shake hands and bid good-bye to them since he won't see them again till next year. He obliged and they even hugged each other.

In the car, I noticed he suddenly became very quiet. When asked he said, "I'm gonna miss my friends. Two months holiday is too long!"

He's got a sensitive heart, my boy. Friendship is something he really treasures.

But he'll discover that two months will pass in just a blink of an eye.And friends will come and go. Only true ones will stay to you as time goes by.

She did it!

2011-11-18T04:51:00.000+08:00

My girl had made it! She scored 5As in her UPSR exam! Woo-hoo!

After all the hard work!

Tears of joy!

With her BFF, Ratu

More BFFs, all with 5As!

I'm so proud and happy for her!

What a 38-year-old loves Part1

2011-11-17T04:28:00.001+08:00

I thought as time moves on to my next birthday, I will slowly post about some funny things about me at the age of 38. Things I had never done before.

This year, I fell in love with chunky rings. It all started with the gorgeous blue snowflake ring I bought from Alison. Never a person of style, I suddenly find it soul-fulfilling to wear something that 'shouts' on my ring finger..especially since I stare at it almost everyday when I'm behind the steering wheel..traveling long distance at work.

PS: Iqa's exam results will be announced after 11am today. Now you know why I'm up at 3am..I can't sleep thinking of what may happen..(while she is sleeping like a baby in her room!)

What I'm feeling now..

2011-11-16T06:08:00.000+08:00

In just a month time..I will end my 38th year of life and move to the last year of the 30. When I was in my teens, I thought being 30s sounds so old. But seriously, I don't feel that old. In age maybe, but in my heart I'm always 25..LOL.

Currently, I'm starting to exercise again after not doing so for months. This self-awareness; to be healthy and fit... it comes and go. And sometimes it's always there but no action taken about it. So, realising that I'm the master of my own destiny, I start it all over again. With the hope that I can lose 5 kgs..in a month's time..no..just kidding. I won't be that silly..I'll give myself maybe half a year for that. I know what I should and should not do to be fit..and it's about time I work on it.

Today I saw somebody wearing a T-shirt with these words on it:

IT'S NOT HOW LONG YOU LIVE, IT'S HOW WELL.

I will no doubt turn 40 and 50 and so on when the time comes, so I might as well make the best of it..in style.

The Ipoh Mali Girl and Rambutan

2011-11-13T06:24:00.000+08:00

Najla, our 'Ipoh Mali' girl has real crush for rambutans. She waits for the fruits to turn red almost every day. She counted the red ones. And begged mummy to pick them for her yesterday.

So, mummy climbed up the ladder and fought the fierce black ants to bring the red, juicy rambutans to Her Majesty.

A bowl of water is needed to get rid of the ants

Yay, rambutans!

Oh so yummy!

She will get more..

She actually ate almost all and left only two for the sister!

She got brain, that girl..

2011-11-09T05:27:00.000+08:00

One day I was explaining to Iqa about the secondary level education during my time. She was curious since she will be entering a secondary school herself come January.

I told her back then, when we reached Form Four, we had to choose to study in certain streams. During my time, there were three: Pure Science, Social Science and Art. She asked me what each stream means. Pure Science basically emphasized on Additional Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Social Science had Accounts and Commerce as their main priorities. Art stream was about Literature and History.

Iqa quickly said, "Art stream is so you,"

Huh.

Yeah, that girl has brains. Even she can tell that. Why not everybody else once upon a time?

I hated Science but those days only Pure Science students were deemed the good ones; with Art students perceived as the lowest level. I'm definitely an Art stream material..but never got to follow my guts. Following the mainstream (and my parents' hope for me to be a doctor), I went on to Science stream..which I didn't do very well..just so-so..enough to qualify to a university entrance..but not to fulfill my heart desire.

I did had friends who follow their hearts..and with full support of their parents..chose the stream they wanted based on their interest. That is defying the norm those days..but they succeeded.

My time had past. No regrets; I won't be what I am today had I followed my heart anyway. But I'm determined to listen to my kids' choices now that I'm a parent.

Forget what society wants and think. I'll make sure this girl of mine will do what she's good at.

A bad thing called 'Tendonitis'

2011-11-08T16:14:00.001+08:00

I've been having this pain and stiff feeling every time I use my right thumb for usual things for the last two weeks. It worsen each time I wake up in the morning. I can't lift things with my right hands; using scissors is always hard. I tried taking Panadol Extend tablets; thinking I'm having joint problem..but they don't seem to help.

As usual, in the end I sought the help of the nice lady doctor I used to see. She quickly pointed that it's 'tendonitis'; and even sketched to me what tendon looks like; and differentiate it with muscles and joints.

The first question I asked, "How did it happen? Is it ageing?"

She laughed and said anybody can get it (but a website said it mostly happens to people above 40! Grrr..).

I'm a bit relieved that it's not cancer or arthritis or something worse anyway. It doesn't sound that bad; the treatment normally includes the usual painkillers or sometimes steroid injection. The worst is a kind of surgery where the problem tendon is opened and corrected. Talk about scary.

I went back with a package of painkiller tablets; she asked me to see for a week and if it persists, she''ll send me to an orthopedic. She advised me to rest and take a break from strenuous house work. (Did she say rest from house work? I wish..)

Okay, Mr Tendon. Please be good. Cause I need this hands. Serious.

More than a colleague

2011-11-05T06:47:00.001+08:00

A colleague called me up today to announce that she's leaving the company. She wanted me to be the first to know before boss made a formal announcement next week. She's going to another multinational company which offers managerial position and it all sounds like a good package.

This colleague to me is more than just a colleague. She's like a sister. We share hotel rooms together whenever there's meetings for the last six years. We do a lot of stuffs together during overseas trips. We share problems, gripes of life and happy moments.

I'm happy for her. Deep down, I wish her all the good things in life. And thank her for all the good moments we share and for the friendship. I will miss her hearty laugh and 'well-groomed' ways. She said this is not good-bye. We'll stay in touch and we'll meet again.

Good luck, dear friend. I know we'll always be friends.

November already?

2011-11-03T05:23:00.000+08:00

Rainy season is coming. Will the flowers still bloom?

2011 ending soon? Time seems to be leaping so fast, don't you think?

This month my only relief is that there's only two months more ..about less that 60 days for me to end the craziness of chasing my sales quota at work. 10 down, two to go. How bad can the two be?

Najid will be ending his 'boyhood' once school holiday starts on the final week. A big milestone for all of us!

We'll know the result of Iqa's big exam this month too. I told her already, whatever it is..our love will always be with her.

Najla will be participating in performances for her kindergarten event. She practised and sings them to us every day!

Now I'm excited and can't wait for December already!

What I'm Crazy about these Days..

2011-10-31T12:31:00.002+08:00

1.Back in 2009, few months after a car accident, I lived my life showered with so much love and strength from people around me and also from blog friends. Zanas, a Singaporean friend made an artsy notebook for me. I wrote about it here.

After keeping it for so long in my 'treasure box', now I decided to make it my 2011 journal; and put my favourite pictures for my own pleasure. The last time I wrote journals was in my primary school years..I stopped because my mom seems to read it behind me and criticize! I'm writing backwards now..trying to recall things from January till now.

2.Inspired by this post, I decided to create postcard saver books. I collect postcards from places I go; but they in the end go to the shoe boxes..only seeing the sunlight when I have time to look at them. So, by using the book rings from Tesco I'm giving them life again!

This one from an art postcard series sold by World Association of Breasfeeding Action (WABA) I bought back in 2007 when I was struggling with breastfeeding Najla.

The pictures are cuttings from a brochure on breastfeeding campaign I got in a hospital.

Postcards bought by the Mister and his colleague, Zu on their separate trips to Singapore

From Bangkok trip

I can't explain the love!

Vietnam last February

Najla got infected by my journaling bug too!

She added stickers on her school album pages

3.I also worked on a 'scrap board' where I put up all the meaningful pictures of moments we had in 2011. The kids love it! There's 2 more spaces left unoccupied for November and December..and I will transfer all these in another album or journal book when 2011 closes its curtain.

Our 'scrap board'

Sorry if you feel this blog had become a craft blog or something like it..I can't help it! I'm still new at this..they're not perfect but they mean a lot to me. BTW, things don't have to be perfect to be beautiful right?

Nowadays..I just love sitting in a corner, looking at every pages, touching every pictures and feeling the deep satisfaction..and waves of love flowing inside me.

Around here..

2011-10-30T10:40:00.001+08:00

I've been in mixed mood lately..that explains not updating the blog. Today I took some pics of things I was up to (for show and tell, after all it's my blog okay!)..but couldn't upload them here..blahh..the Mister brought the memory card adaptor to work! Next time I guess.

So, this pics of the little Miss Najla playing around will do to get the space occupied..

This week..

I'm busy journaling..stealing a few hours every day ..finding ways to utilize our beautiful pictures
knowing that 2011 is just 2 months left..I just need to cherish all the moments that way.

Managing Najid's eczema..
the flares that had shown its ugliest episodes this week
costs us a bomb too since we need to bring him to a dermatologist.

Accidentally killed a kitten at our own entry way..
and had to rely on two Year 3 boys to help me bury it..
(I'm already scared of live cats, so don't expect me to be brave to dead cats!)
Najid's friend, Meor was kind enough to help with Najid crying endlessly next to him..

Dealing with some family issues through long distance phone calls
is not something fun too..
Sometimes you wonder what the worst that can happen..

If only we can see the future..

2011-10-26T05:53:00.000+08:00

I wish I know what will happen next.

My sister is going through a critical phase in her life. The wedding invitations are out. The outfits are being tailored. The plans are made.

The only thing still left uncertain is her heart.

Movie Magic

2011-10-23T06:55:00.000+08:00

1. We decided it's time to go to the movies again as a family since the Mister gets off days this weekend..it's not often you find him at home on weekends with a job like that! My sis highly recommended Real Steel starred by Hugh Jackman. I didn't know much about this movie; unsure if it's good for a family movie outing..we normally choose animated ones so that the kids will enjoy. We went on to see it anyway because it feels like ages we've not done this. I really need a break after the rough week..that's another reason.

The movie is good..I laughed and cried at some scenes; everybody seemed to be enjoying it too. Except Najla. As expected, she's not attracted since the movie looks more like 'grown-ups' movie..no animation, no princesses, no funny characters. She quickly lost focus and turned her attention to me instead. In the semi-darkness of the theatre, she started hugging me, kissing my cheeks, my lips endlessly! It's irritating..I admit it..since I'm trying to follow the story..but it felt beautiful too.

In my busy schedule, I hardly sit and spend time hugging and kissing her anymore. It feels like I haven't really touch her as much as I did when she was a cuddly baby. I won't have much time left since she's getting bigger and bigger..something I cannot stop. Her cheeks are less chubby, the cheek bones are finding their way to be more visible. Soon there will be a time when she will be upset if I kiss her. With that thought, I let her shower me with her kisses. Our little magical moment in the theatre.

2. Back at home I had to face the huge pile of clothes waiting to be folded and kept. I decided to do it while enjoying the DVD I had bought so long. I chose the award winning "The King's Speech" starred by Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush. If you know me, I hardly have entertainment time at home. Hardly watch TV as there's always house chores to do..there's always school homework to teach. So, this is the only time I can indulge in movies I like. Epics, love stories, movies that the kids and the Mister won't watch. My kind of movie.

Not long after the movie started, in came the Mister. Oh man, I'm scared he may not like this movie. He's not into English royals..he's more into comedy and war. But the amazing thing is..he just sat there next to me (I assume he wanted to accompany me with the clothes!) and watched along. I explained a little bit to give him some understanding. This is a true story; hoping he'll be interested. And the movie gave its magic. He's hooked to the end. He actually watched my kind of movie. Wow.

And the feeling just sitting next to him..the two of us in front of the box..it's priceless.

Those hands..

2011-10-22T06:21:00.001+08:00

There's a reason why Allah gives you those hands..
Do something with it..make something..
Draw, colour!
Create!

Iqa's Manga sketches copied from image of her mobile phone. Iqa is now crazy over all stuffs Korean, Japanese..the pop culture, the drawings..

My first low-budget scrapbook as a birthday gift to Iqa

Made by mom..with mom's bare hands..and recycled, anything-I-can-grab stuffs!

Scrapbooking stuffs in the craft shop are sooo expensive..so I buy fancy hard papers from ordinary book shop, some stickers for embellishment and use plastic sheet protectors so that the photos will stay long. (My HP printer cartridge dries up fast..boo-hoo!)

Najla with her colouring passion..and Angry Bird obsession!

Living with Eczema

2011-10-20T06:19:00.000+08:00

Eczema has been part of Najid's life since he was little. He always scratches all over, the skin is always reddish and patches of flare-ups are evident in his various body parts from time to time. It can be triggered by certain food like prawn and calamari and sometimes even fried chicken. Too bad these are all his favourite food. Few years back these food don't bother him much. Lately they make his life more miserable than ever. Just a sip or a bite can make him suffer with itchiness for days.

Knowing that eczema doesn't feel nice, he voluntarily abstain from those food. He religiously uses special ph 5.5 bath cream and applies moisturizer upon drying his body. And antihistamine pills are his constant companion now. To avoid the flares, he needs to take them before enjoying his food.

I told him that he has to live with eczema all his life. He must know how to manage it all by himself since mommy will not be around forever.

I feel a little sad when I said that..did I sound too harsh? But little sweetie, that's the truth. I hope he will accept this as one little weakness in his system and lives to find and concentrates in his strength for the bigger part of his life.

We all have one little weakness in our system. Some have more. I need to show him it's no big deal.

New Coat

2011-10-11T14:48:00.000+08:00

Our landlord suddenly decided to paint the outer part of the house new...after 5 years. Gone are all the moss and boring look at the entrance..even the porch and house walls are given fresh new faces.

The kids are delighted that the house now looks new..

Najid said it will be nicer in green. Najla wanted pink. Iqa preferred blue.

But you know, the house is not ours. Deep down there's a tinge of worry inside me. It can be taken away from us anytime.

Celebrating 12

2011-10-09T05:29:00.000+08:00

The birthday girl

The cake

The friends

It was everything Iqa wanted for a memorable birthday party..her close friends' to celebrate with, the fresh cream American chocolate cake (she can't take butter cream!), the simple games for not-so-small kids. I'm glad we managed to do it well..though I learned my lesson that with KFC chicken, you don't need to cook so much of other things. Kids love finger food that they are familiar with for a birthday party..

The women behind the party:

Sisters' act

The birthday girl and us...look how tall she is now!

Taller than the aunt!

Sorry for taking so long to come up with this post. With her being 12, my girl will be an identity card holder soon. We have applied and it will be ready by next month. Ahh..another historical moment in life!

My crafty adventure this week..

2011-10-07T20:20:00.001+08:00

I really don't understand what's got into me.

Iqa said I suddenly act weird. Unlike her usual mom, I'm so much into crafty stuffs.

Actually, some art blogs inspired me to start doing many things with the photos I take. I realised digital cameras helped me produce so much meaningful photos which I haven't preserved well..it is a shame as those moments need to be cherished. So I decided to work on some sort of scrapbooking or photo journal; things that can be touched and enjoyed without having to go online. One project at a time.

I had just finished Najla's last year's school book:

And currently working on a journal on Iqa's recent birthday party:

And the most shocking part (even my mom doesn't know this yet!)..I signed up for a sewing class this week! I just had my second lesson today..it was tough; I am the slowest to grab things about the sewing machine (I'm the second oldest student okay, so please excuse me!) . But I'm lucky my teacher seems to be a patient one..

Today I learned to sew straight lines..which took me two hours and still not that good at it..

The teacher said normally a new student can make a piece of 'baju kurung' in 3 months.

I think I will need one year. I hope she stays patient!

Najid's Crazy over Angry Birds

2011-10-05T10:49:00.000+08:00

He's actually not the only one. The house is full of them..the birds; and the birds' fans. Will take photos later. I owe you some pics from Iqa's party.

Just wait.

Stop growing!

2011-10-01T05:01:00.001+08:00

Tomorow that tiny bundle in my arms is turning 12. The last year before she officially becomes a teenager. Preparations are on the way for her birthday party at the moment.

She's nearly as tall as I am now.
She wears shirts that I can no longer fit in. Hate to say she looks beautiful in them!
She's crazy about Facebook games, the boy band Big Times Rush and word search puzzle.
She's so good with the laptop..she even thought me few things about it!
(And said.."Mom! Don't tell me you don't know simple things like this!")
She is on her way to maturity..and independence.

Can I say please stop growing?

The multiplying power

2011-09-26T11:42:00.000+08:00

The two younger kids are crazy about Boboi Boy, the new local-made superhero cartoon on TV. It's Boboi Boy this and Boboi Boy that.This Boboi Boy has a power that enables him to multiply into three; so his evil-fighting jobs are easier.

I was complaining about the house chores yesterday. Since I was too concentrated on cleaning and re-decorating Iqa's room, I didn't have enough time to clean up the rest of the house and cooking was delayed. I blamed the kids too for not being helpful at all.

Najid said, "Won't it great you can have Boboi Boy's multiplying power, mom? All your works will be completed in no time!"

Yah right..and they don't even have to lift a finger. Clever.

Some green (and splash of colours) therapy from home

2011-09-25T04:36:00.000+08:00

Things I love this week

2011-09-24T08:13:00.001+08:00

It has been quiet a tough week for me at work. New products are coming..so massive promotions and deals had to be worked out..and sometimes what you get is not what you want. I come across very difficult people this week. At times I really feel like giving up..but other times I feel grateful that I still have a job, a way to feed and educate my kids and make myself useful.

They say..look at things positively. On top of the battle I'm in now, I do stop and smell some flowers..well, not literally though. I managed to look at some things that give me pleasures and happiness..

Taking some time off with the Mister to go for Thai massage. They are merciless people I say..but they do my body good!

Looking at the rock insects by the amazing Alison over her blog. Isn't she talented?

Joining my kids with their obsession for the internet game Angry Birds. They play the game, I collect the toys: stuffed toys, key-chains. I even have the Blue bird theme for my car!

Hooked to magazines like this now..no longer the usual woman magazine as I feel they only talk about gossips and fashion that doesn't suit me. I love imported decor magazine as they also give tips for practical storage and housekeeping! Such an inspiring read!

So, how was your week?

Teacher

2011-09-22T06:14:00.000+08:00

Me: What do you want to be when you're big?

Najla: I want to be a teacher!

Me: Why?

Najla: When the kids get naughty, I get to scold and hit them!

About mothers

2011-09-19T11:49:00.000+08:00

This weekend I spent some time with my mom and my MIL..the two amazing mothers in my life. They're different in some ways but similar too in certain ways. There are times when I misunderstand them, misjudge and misinterpret a lot of things they do. But the magic thing is..now that I'm a mother myself, at the end of the day I can relate to why they do things they did.

And forgive them for it. Secretly wishing I can tell them how I'm sorry for those negative thinking. But I don't have the courage.

We've managed to find a live-in domestic helper for MIL as she has weak knees and living alone. I'm so relieved that as at now, the helper seems to be a capable one. And the best thing is her presence makes my MIL happier. She doesn't only need a house cleaner, she needs company..that's obvious.

Seeing how things went smoothly with this helper, I offered to look for one for my own mom. She hesitated at first, worrying about how it may cost and how she is not comfortable having a stranger in the house. But we made her look at things on the bright side; and she's opened for it now. Even though she has dad with her, she needs somebody to do house chores as she is weak too..and sadly none of her kids are available all the time.

I've arranged for an extra hand for her..now hoping that this one soul we're waiting for is kind, helpful and compassionate enough to be in our family. I know a helper can never replace the children..I just hope she will ease the burden.

Proud to be Malaysian

2011-09-16T08:40:00.000+08:00

Malaysia celebrated Merdeka Day, it's 54th anniversary of independence last 31st August. The celebration for this year is made today to combine with Malaysia Day; the day both East and west Malaysia united.

I remember back in 2000 on my first company trip to Mannheim, Germany I met a colleague from Belarus who frowned when I mentioned where I was from. She honestly had never heard of it (actually I've never heard of Belarus too!) and asked me to explain which part of the world it is. I had to say it is the peninsular slightly above Singapore (which appears to be more famous) and southern of Thailand. She was surprised that Malaysian delegates speak English well too.

I believe Malaysia is more popular now thanks to the progress and peace that we have after getting our independence for 54 years now. I'm always proud of it whenever I go overseas; especially in the Asian region where we're famous for being a stable and well-to-do nation! I'm grateful too that here in Malaysia, people of different ethnic background live in harmony. This is the place where I'm loved, accepted and appreciated the most.

Every year the TV commercials here will air Merdeka commercials that are both touching and patriotic. But this one directed by my favourite director, the late and beloved Yasmin Ahmad lingers in my mind even after so many years. It depicted friendship, inter-racial harmony and unity. Reminds me of my primary school years with my Indian and Chinese best friends..

Enjoy!

Happy Malaysia Day!

The first battle

2011-09-13T09:08:00.000+08:00

Dear Iqa,

Today is the day. You'll be sitting for the first big national-level exam in your life. Just remember it's just like any other exams you've had before. And there'll be many, many more after this dear.

Don't be afraid, don't panic. Be calm. Be positive. Be confident. Do what you do best. Trust your gut. Remember Allah and your loved ones are always by your side.

Whatever may happens, we will face it together. As long as you've tried, that's okay dear. We love you still!

She's a big girl!

2011-09-10T06:33:00.000+08:00

It's always refreshing to see the world from your child's eyes. Every thing is exciting, adventurous and full of colours!

Around Raya celebration this year, I can't help to notice how Najla wanted so much to show the world that she has grown up..she kept saying "I'm a big girl, no more a baby!". She turned 4 last April and to her 4 is like 21 for teenagers!

She chose her own outfit..we wanted to have blue theme this year..but she wanted to be different! And she insisted on colourful jewellery..

For the first time, she ate all grown-up stuffs: spicy meals she had never tried before like rendang!

She also played sparklers like her brother..not only the no-fire Pop-pop! She said she's big enough to handle them on her own!

And she proved it to me!

So, big bro..keep away from me!

At the graveyard, she was able to read out Al-fatihah, one of the basic Quranic verses to dedicate to her late grandpa

Thinking about the ones she had never seen before: her grandpa and aunt

With the cousin she loves the most; they're inseparable for 4 days!

Showing the 'peace' sign whenever the camera is focused on her..she must have thought that's a cool thing to do for a big girl!

Raya in the golden age

2011-09-08T09:58:00.001+08:00

Raya this year certainly was not the best that we had; especially when I look at my parents and MIL. They're all above 60 and not at their best health.

1.Dad still complains of his stiff left fingers and how he brings a foldable chair along with 'OKU' (Disabled Person) sign written boldly on it every time he goes to the mosque as he can't sit on the floor; so he wants people to emphatize and give way to him. This Raya we didn't visit his folks at the village as there's so many hurtful things that happened since he suffered from stroke last year. He had to sell his beloved land and house; and to make it worse he was betrayed by his siblings. He tried to put up a happy face but deep inside I know it must have hurt him when none of his siblings turned up to visit him for Raya celebrations.

We tried to make him see that there's a bright side of everything. We're still intact as a family, his condition has improved so much he can even do his morning walk around the residential area without assistance and I believe he's going to be stronger and stronger.

One for keepsake: mom, yours truly with Najla and my dad.

Dad and my kids

2.As for mom, Raya means massive cooking. She has large number of relatives who are fond of her cookings; they come in big groups the whole week of Raya. In spite of being uncontrolled diabetes with some early complications showing, she is always determined to serve them the best meals. It breaks my heart every time when I see her lying flat on the bed; exhausted and worn out after the day is the done. But that's her passion; Raya without cooking is meaningless for her. We try to help out as much as we can; knowing that there's no way we can get her to take things easy.

Mom still searches for new recipes to serve when there's no guests around!

3. My MIL had just undergone a knee surgery this time. She's not too strong but just like my mom, the spirit of Raya masked it all. She's a bit sad this year since not all her children could make it for the first day family reunion. It's a normal thing; husbands and wives usually take turns to be with each other's folks for the first day. But she put up a brave smile anyway.

But during the forgiving and forgiven session, she couldn't help it!

This year, we spent more time with my MIL. I see a lot of things from her eyes; the drive to serve the best meals to your kids, the anticipation..waiting for the children to be by your side, the feeling of hopeless knowing that you don't have the strength to do things you like anymore.

Being with the aged made me do a lot of thinking. Our time will come one day. We can never be prepared for it; no matter how.

A slice of Raya in the village

2011-09-05T11:53:00.000+08:00

One of the tradition we have every Raya is to visit relatives near or far. It's a once-a-year thing; so this is the only opportunity to re-bond and strengthen ties.

One of the compulsory visits for the Mister's family is to a very good family friend in Pondoi , Negeri Sembilan. It has been told that the late old man of this family once was a close friend to my late father-in-law; they vowed to be brothers even though there's no blood ties. So, the younger generation honours the vow till today.

The house is located deep in the heart of a rubber plantation estate. Houses are not very close to each other and most owners own big areas for farming and poultry rearing. One thing that touches us every time is that this friend lives in simplicity; they don't own big cars or high-tech house facilities but the house is always open for guests..they will serve us with a big feast every time we arrive!

The entrance with family members name listed. The family build everything themselves here; even the gate. They don't hire anybody to do it.

A part of the comfortable house with benches available for guests to sit and chat.

The rubber-flattening machine; not sure if it's still in use.

The living room

We were served rice cubes (ketupat) with rendang maman, a type of rare grass cooked in spicy rendang. You won't find this elsewhere!

The shy woman of the house; trying to avoid showing her face!

Popia simpul, one of the nibbles she prepared for the guests. She baked all her biscuits and snacks; none bought (in contrast with us: we bought, none prepared ourselves!).

The kids' favourite swing

A walk around the village didn't go far as the roads were full of cow dung!

One of the fish pond found near the house

Outdoor dining; this time enjoying sup gearbox, hot clear beef soup

Isn't that special?

Raya and Family faces

2011-09-04T03:52:00.000+08:00

Family faces are magic mirrors. Looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present and future. We make discoveries about ourselves.
Gail Lumet Buckley

What will Raya be without family?Raya came with 1001 stories that can never be told one by one. When many relatives reunite, its a mixed bag of many feelings. We have crisis, conflicts, hope, relieve, happiness, love and sadness all together. But that's what being together is about.

This year's Raya was never like the ones before. With ageing parents and family dilemmas, we had many challenges. But sweet moments were never short.

Raya smiles

2011-08-30T14:11:00.000+08:00

Today is the first day of Syawal. Ramadan had ended. Najid proudly brags about how he didn't miss a day; he completed fasting the whole 29 days of Ramadan. Raya means family reunion, endless cooking, endless eating and photos. Since connection is a bit slow, I'll just put up this pic of the kids when asked to pose. This is just one of many!

The journey back for Raya starts!

2011-08-26T22:04:00.004+08:00

Bye, Selamat hari raya aidil Fitri and see you again!

Might update if connection and time permits from hometown...

Sweet Ramadan Sunday

2011-08-22T09:02:00.000+08:00

Making cornflakes honey cup with Iqa and my sis..
Iqa is yearning to learn more about cookie-making
(which is a mystery to her mom too actually)
So, this is a start..and she's good in it already!

Playing sparklers at night
to celebrate the last 10 remaining days of Ramadan
looks like Najla enjoyed her heart out
and Iqa found this is not her thing anymore..

When lil sis comes to town..

2011-08-21T07:16:00.000+08:00

Since dad had stroke last year, most of her time is occupied with looking after him together with mom. This weekend she managed to 'escape' duty and steal some time to join us in Ipoh for a taste of Ramadan and hugs and kisses and bullying from the kids.

She craves for the halal Dim Sum, a Chinese cuisine she can't find in Melaka. So,around 4pm both of us walked in the midst of the friendly Ramadan drizzle at the Medan Gopeng Ramadan Bazaar yesterday in our quest for Dim Sum.

And my sis snapped few pics using her mobile phone to capture the moments:

Me choosing stuffs for Rojak Singapore

The much-sought-after dim sum. The steam tray is nearly empty by 5!

The two of us in the middle of Ramadan Baazar

Our catch

It's lovely just spending some time with her (and the food completes the sweetness!)...it's like the missing part in your heart had finally found its way back. She'll take the bus home today when we still long for her company, but we know we'll be reunited again when Raya comes.

PS: I need to invest in a phone with good camera too..can't imagine bringing my DSLR to places like Ramadan Baazar!

Now a Tablet is a different kind of supplement..

2011-08-19T07:33:00.000+08:00

I feel like a dinosaur nowadays.
I still have no idea what is I-Pad, I-Pod or I-Phone..
and now they are talking about Tablets.

The only thing that I try to keep up with time
is the ever-changing music tunes..
I try to keep up with the latest songs people like
so that I don't sound too old!

But wait..
I still look for CDs, when somebody told me you don't need CDs anymore now
people just download and listen to music using MP3 in the car or everywhere..

Blah..I am a dinosaur then.

What the Kids Want..

2011-08-14T07:02:00.000+08:00

I've been instilling the habit of saving money in coin banks to my kids since many years ago. Each of them has their own coin banks with their name written on it.

Now that Ramadan reaches it's 14th day, Najid pointed out that the coin banks will surely explode once Raya comes. It's a norm for adults to present green money packets to kids when we celebrate Raya. The amount of money inside varies. Normally relatives will give bigger amount; and bigger kids get bigger sums too..we feel uneasy giving teenagers coins..they appreciate money notes with bigger numbers! Last year each of them collected about $100 plus each just from the Raya collection.

So I asked all of them..once you get so much money, what will you do with it?

And this is what I got!

Iqa wants all the pop magazines she can get in the world that feature her favourite boy group Big Time Rush! I had forbid her from buying entertainment magazines before she finishes her big exam in September.. Okay, she said with her own money I have no say!

Najid wants to buy us all tickets to his favourite theme park: the Lost World. The last time we went was on his 7th birthday; 2 years ago. The tickets are a bit pricely and the park is always a full-house!

And wait till you see what little Miss Najla wants!

Yes, this bike!

She saw it on TV and persuaded me to buy one for her! Gulp..this one I don't know..

Middle Age Crisis: Decoupage

2011-08-13T07:28:00.000+08:00

Am I having a middle-age crisis (or in Malay 'buang tabiat' ) ?

Recently I was going through a phase I find difficult to understand. I was googling here and there about stitching, hand-quilting and all sorts of crafty handworks to the extent of I think I was going nuts. After being a very non-crafty person for almost all my life, suddenly I feel the urge to grab something artsy. And that's when I suddenly saw the word 'decoupage' on the glass wall of a craft shop.

This is what Wikipedia says about Decoupage:

Decoupage (or découpage) is the art of decorating an object by gluing colored paper cutouts onto it in combination with special paint effects, gold leaf and so on. Commonly an object like a small box or an item of furniture is covered by cutouts from magazines or from purpose-manufactured papers. Each layer is sealed with varnishes (often multiple coats) until the "stuck on" appearance disappears and the result looks like painting or inlay work.

It sounds very easy, isn't it? If you know cutting and pasting papers, you can try decoupage. So, my mind was filled with so much imagination. I have lots of paper stuffs I collected without purpose: magazines, postcards, photos, stamps, leaflets..maybe I can put them to good use with this art. I went back to the craft shop and asked the owner to recommend me the simplest and cheapest tools to start off with the budget of $50. The sweet understanding lady offered me plain white glue, a bottle of decoupage varnish and a free sponge-brush. I insisted that I'm not into any of her class at this moment (no budget!) but will try my hands on it first.

And so my first project started. I tried pasting some magazine cut-out onto the round tin can I use as sewing kit container.

Handbag cut-outs for a start

Najla's favourite cartoon icons on an old round cake board. She loves this and uses it as place mat!

As you can see, I'm still struggling to make perfect finishes.. but I want to do more to get the hang of it. These are some inspirations I found here:

Mickey Mouse side table by Bombus

Decoupage Kitchen by Jonathan Fong – via The Wave Magazine

Postage Stamp side table – via Apartment Therapy

Monochrome decoupage by Swampdragon via Apartment Therapy

Decoupage Bookshelf via Curbly

Definitely My Style!

2011-08-10T09:43:00.000+08:00

I stumbled upon this amazing interior decor magazine; Fresh Cottage yesterday and was mesmerized by it instantly! The style screams to me: English country, vintage, colourful, bold, tribal and seaside all in one. I can't bring down the magazine..and if I do the images still plays in my mind wherever I go! This is what I really like for my home; the colours are shouting and vibrant, the decorations are cute yet functional. The furniture and decor items are mostly refurbished old ones or found in budget stores.

There's no online version of it and the magazine has no official website; so I'm putting someof the images here I found in Facebook for you to drool and ooh and aah with me!

Preteen Insecurity

2011-08-08T14:25:00.000+08:00

The kids and I were checking old photo albums the other day, and we were thrilled to walk back the memory lane..the cute baby faces, the embarrassing moments, the funny expressions. Those days we developed films; it was before we got a digital camera or even the DSLR.

It's obvious that in those photos when Iqa was about 5 to 8 years old, she smiled freely and widely; compared to now. She hardly refused to be photographed and even love to make funny faces. But she's no longer like that nowadays. This preteen of mine always avoids being in front of cameras; and seems unsure how to pose every time she does. How time changes her.

I asked why. She said it's because she looks ugly in most pictures nowadays. She feels her skin colour has darken; which is slightly true but only because she's exposed to much sunlight due to her marching band practise these days. Other than that, I still see her as beautiful as the first time I laid my eyes on her. Besides, skin colour will turn back to it's natural tone as time goes by.

I tried to convince her that but she doesn't buy it. I guess it's part of the growing up process. Who doesn't hate her look at that age? I remember I was 'heavy' and 'big' at the age of 12. Some pictures of me from that era is still kept properly and it's a big NO to be exposed to anybody until now!

It takes me many decades after that to feel comfortable with myself, my skin and my looks. I believe I am enough right now..only when I'm reaching the end of my 30s..

I'm sure she will find her way to self-appreciation. I just need to keep guiding and reminding her that she IS beautiful.

One Saturday in the month of Ramadan..

2011-08-07T07:24:00.000+08:00

After the crazy weekdays, it's time to play with the camera again. Today it's all-in-a-day photos..the ordinary stuffs we do on Saturdays.

When the sun started shining, Najla is the only one not fasting..and she needs this every morning; the iced Milo.

Oh wait..somebody else is not fasting too obviously! And his name is Milo..coincidentally.

Few minutes spent to have a clearer look at the potted flowers..I think they've started to act wild..

Najla started digging the old books that attract her..

And left the usual mess..

The brother with a sticker on his butt!

Some of the many batches of laundry done! Good thing is these days our life doesn't revolve around food..so more time for house works!

Some of the huge piles of cloth-folding done..

Another Najla's obsession - solving jigsaw puzzles

He said if he feels too hungry, he'll sleep. But today he didn't, he spent time reading instead.

The fast-breaking food I got from the Ramadan Bazaar. The beauty of Ramadan is; we normally buy..we hardly cook. Everybody wants to eat different things. That can be the ugliness of Ramadan too..we spend!

When the Mister came back from work, he added more food!

Iqa's favourite: the Batik no-bake cake

Najid's pick: grilled chicken (Ayam Percik)

My favourite: Popiah - the spring rolls, fresh or fried.

After the hearty meal, Najid indulged in his favourite dessert...yum!

End of another fasting day. 3 weeks more to go!

The best daughter

2011-08-05T15:35:00.006+08:00

Too bad my sister is the only child staying close with my parents. Since dad fell into the world of stroke last December, her life changes drastically forever. She's no longer the carefree teacher who can brag of her movie marathon days or the computer games the SIMS she loves every time we meet. Nowadays, she almost has no time for herself.

Dad has recovered quite a lot. He can manage walking alone to the shops now. The adult diapers are long thrown away. His brain works okay; he knows about all the world news from TV. His left limbs are still not up to his expectation anyway but he's showing progress. He regrets not being able to ride motorbike, manoeuvre the steering wheel or perform a proper prayer though. The only problem now is he acts like a child; his demands must be met without delay..and his demands are many. If his demands are not met, he gets frustrated and cries openly.

We're in the fasting month now, the Ramadan. Dad can perform the fasting well but he wants to eat so many different things at night; be it home-cooked or outside. My sis has to bring him out at least two times every night depending on what he feels like eating. Then when the sun is up, she needs to bring him for physiotherapy and medical appointments. Mom, who's a poorly-controlled diabetic nowadays need more clinical attention too. By noon, my sis will have to start working..., she teaches the afternoon session. I can imagine how she's already exhausted before she reaches the school. Before she comes home, she will have to look for fast-breaking food that dad wants for the day. The cycle goes on and on.

I listened to her heart-pouring over the phone with a heavy heart every time. I can't help feeling hopeless, words and encouragement are the only things I can offer..that's the only thing I can do being this far from her. She sometimes feel angry that all this is up on her shoulder now. An anger I can understand. But cannot do much about.

She's getting married this December. Yet she is convinced that her life will remain the same. As a good daughter, she vows she will never leave my parents even after the marriage takes place.

Deep in my heart, I can only pray that things will get better when the time comes. I wish that the man of her life will bring her happiness.

Because I think as the best daughter to my parents, she deserves it.

This video clip was made by her on our dad's birthday last month (ironically dad and my sis has their birthdays in the same month!)..I can feel how deep her love is for him in this..it made my heart swell!

Back to Where She Belongs

2011-08-04T11:27:00.000+08:00

After staying for week in the school hostel, Iqa decided that hostel life is not conducive to her studies. It's hard to focus; and she has problems with the schedule. So, we were more than happy to pull her out from the program. She still follows the day program, but by night she's tucked safely at home..circled by all her loved ones.

The younger siblings may be annoying at times, but it's clear that they miss her a lot. They are not ready to part with her. I noticed that Najla will automatically behave whenever she threatens to go back to the hostel!

The big exam will happen about a month from now. Even though we want her to do well, we're not into forcing her to study all day and all night. She needs to unwind, enjoy life (and that means letting her dive into her Facebook visits too!) as she prepares for it. After all, exams are not everything. I don't want to put too much pressure on her. She's not even 12!

The mister and I have experienced staying in boarding schools before. We have more bad experience than good ones. So, we plan not to let her get into the same thing. We will try to keep her with us as long as she can bear it..LOL..

Short, short July!

2011-07-30T15:42:00.000+08:00

Najla with her 'Halle Berry' hairstyle!

July is about to end..seriously this month I blogged the least! There was the business trip, the never-ending work chaos, some big problem in between..and life; life just got in the way! I managed to squeeze some time for a quiet movie date with the Mister though; I bet you can guess it was Harry Potter..(I failed to hide this from Iqa when she accidentally found the movie tickets, thanks to the dad who loves to keep whatever used tickets on the side table..haha..and she was furious!)

We're about to start fasting month this 1st August here in Malaysia, Iqa is home for the weekend and right now we're waiting for our beloved relatives from KL who promised to spend the days with us. Durians are bought; waiting for them to open them up (coz I don't know how to..the Mister is at work!), chicken rendang, fish sambal, fried 'tempe' and beef soup are all ready to be served..

Happy weekend you guys..see you when August comes!

Thinking of mom..

2011-07-28T06:42:00.000+08:00

I had made her cry many times
during good and bad times
I wish I hadn't..

They take her away from us..

2011-07-24T21:47:00.000+08:00

I'm short of one child now.

Iqa's school had a programme where all the top 50 students has to stay in their hostel for a month so that they will get the best preparation for the upcoming UPSR exam in September. She will be staying there on week days and only will be home on weekends.

They take her for a month!

We sent her today.

She packed as if she's moving out forever!

The moment the car left her school, Najla got teary eyes. She missed her big sis already.

Najid was in no mood to finish up his homework tonight. And he wants to sleep in Iqa's bed. he nodded when I asked if he misses Iqa.

And somebody else will sure misses Iqa too..there'll be no more lunch for Milo as the rest will only feed him dinner!

Busy + Fun Weekend

2011-07-19T17:37:00.000+08:00

We had a busy weekend recently; with family reunions, beach play and a newborn. And I'm in a busy week now. So, I'll just present some pictures to sum up it all..

Some beautiful stuffs from Manila

2011-07-13T10:09:00.001+08:00

I said earlier how I was not given the luxury of time to shop in Manila right?

But that didn't mean I didn't shop! hahaha..

I stumbled upon an amazing Indonesian colleague who's quite familiar with Manila's shopping mall and she grabbed my hand and brought me to shop super-fast ( we looked just like The Amazing Race participants!) in half an hour for souvenirs. She empathised when she heard how i was complaining about not able to buy even fridge magnets or key-chains for Iqa! I was surprised at her kindness and spontaneous way..we just knew each other for few hours at that time!

She brought me to this cool art shop called Papelmeroti. It doesn't sell normal souvenirs but it made my heart explode the moment I walked in..all those artsy home decoration and jewellery..wow! I bought some cool handmade magnets at PhP 45 (about MYR3.50) each..now I regret not buying more..

Those wooden magnets are now on my fridge..the other Filipino magnets I grabbed at the airport before flying home.

And how could I resist this wall decor..it's so screaming me to buy it! Price was about PhP 200..around our MYR 16!

This one is now greeting guests near our front door..

The stuffs I love..old Marcos-time stamps, postcard of Jose Rizal..the legendary independence fighter I adore in Asia History class and more Papelmeroti magnets..

To make a girl happy is not hard you know..give her some art and all the things nice..that's all!

Manila and the most special thing

2011-07-12T09:39:00.002+08:00

Last week I was in manila, the Philippines for a 3-day meeting. Since the scheduled is so packed, my world was confined by the walls of Shangri-La Hotel of Makati..which ironically was surrounded by all types of shopping malls! Can you imagine..I could only see those big malls through my room window and not able to explore! The shops here closed at 9pm and our dinner events ended at 10pm..boo-hoo..

Most pics I took were from the bus and airplanes..I was determined to freeze whatever things that I fancied even though they're just normal stuffs because that was my first time ever in Manila..and who knows it could be the last!

As the plane was nearing the land..

Some roofs from the overhead bridge..I wish I can really walk around this place and capture some faces..uh-oh.. And look at those angry clouds..Manila was in rainy season this time!

We were warned by our Filipino colleagues that the city had just imposed strict no-smoking campaign..

This guy brought a tray of little wiggly toys from one vehicle to another when the light shows red

Our room before we messed it up..

The view from the room at 5.30am..I kid you not! I see Hard Rock Cafe and some famous restaurant franchise too..

I won't be myself if I don't snap pics like this..hahaha..love the fresh purple orchids..

If any of you who had started blogging about the same time like me 5 years ago and had been in my circle, you would remember Lady Lux or Luxie or then Lady Prism..a sweet artsy blogger from Manila. She had shared quite significant moments of her life with us..and made a very memorable experience in my life too..we e-mailed each other and later evolved to become Facebook friends where her true identity appeared as Roselle Quin.

In this Manila trip of mine, the sweetest thing happened..I met her finally after that 5 years online friendship!

The most special moment ..meeting Roselle Quin aka Lady Prism..

It's a pure magical thing..I was not sure we even can meet with that crazy schedule of mine; but I prayed hard enough..Allah may had pitied me! Roselle is as sweet as what I've imagined..and we kicked off as natural as two friends can be..talking about jobs, family and blogworld (and the pleasure it has given us!)

A lot of time people say cyber friends are not real and just a game of feel-good imagination..but we proved the world that is not true. We hope we can meet again one day..and for those of you out there..I hope to meet you all too!

What's in store for July

2011-07-04T20:59:00.000+08:00

July promises a lot of 'happening' stuffs for me..

..The final Harry Potter movie will be here!
..Iqa's UPSR (the BIG exam for primary school here) trial exam..
..An oversea meeting just around the corner..(will update you!)
..The trees around the house starting to fruit rambutans and mangoes..

The Colours of Home

2011-07-03T12:46:00.001+08:00

I used to draft so many plans in my mind about our own house.
I want the rooms to be painted in the shades I like..so that entries to different rooms evoke different moods!
I want the kitchen to be inspiring and inviting enough for me to stay long in there..cooking of course and not munching or nibbling..
I want the walls to be full of art and close-to-heart photos of the people I love; printed on canvas.
I want a beautiful garden complete with pond of koi fish and mini fountains
I want the house to be our personal heaven..

but as a friend said it..
you don't always get what you want
but always get what you don't want!

In reality, we're not even close to owning our own house
but I decided..life has to go on beyond owning a house

Now I've started toying with home decoration..
mini gardening and filling my house with things I fancy
start looking at flower arrangements
curtain selection
learning and making silly mistakes as I go on
playing with the stuffs I have
not bothering at all that the house is not mine

Also because life is too short
what if I die before seeing my dream house comes true
what if by that time I'm too old, too weak or already a disabled?

This weekend, I look at my home through my camera lens and through my bare eyes..
at all its flaws and colours
with a heart heavy with love!

The second half begins..

2011-07-02T12:00:00.000+08:00

Oh my, it's July already?

June just left us with so many memories...ironically June has always been the most happening month for me these few years.
This year we had a heart-warming vacation..
The mister's birthday..(but he's never old to me!)
The 2nd anniversary of the car accident that changed my life..I can't lie, I still remember it strongly!
Kids' sports day..with Iqa's last marching band this year.

The kampung house..that year was the last time we went here..2008!

Now that dad is not himself, he agreed on selling off his much-loved piece of land in the village where he used to live alone while looking after his palm oil plantation. It's a decision he made with a heart heavier than a massive boulder..I know. He had worked on the land since decades ago; on part-time basis first and full time once he retired from government service. The house is like a personal museum to him..he has all the service plaques, academic certificates and photographs hanged on the wall. He even keeps our school books there as he is against throwing away books..one day we might find them useful, he said.

Now the house will be brought down as the land belongs to a stranger.

The sad thing is; due to a complex reason none of us has the opportunity to save whatever we want from the house..not even dad. He told mom that his heart crushed with the fall of the house.

But I guess that's life. Things change whether you like it or not. We just have to move on.

And July comes. The second half of the year starts. Whether we like it or not. And oh...my sis turned 31 with the arrival of July.

Hello sis, you're clearly not a baby sister anymore! So behave!!

Najid the Head Gear Designer

2011-06-26T06:04:00.000+08:00

Few years back Najid would ask me to make face masks for him out of paper plates..which I willingly did with very little creativity. I'll just cut out two oblong shapes for the eyes..tie rubber bands at the two ends for his ear lobes..good enough for him and then he'll wear it to satisfy his world of imagination.

But those days are clearly gone. Maybe he realised how shallow his mom's creativity is nowadays. Now he makes his own masks. And headgear!

He has a fan too. His little sister loves his creation!

Not perfectly cut out, but perfect for her!

I'm sure this is influenced by his current craze for anything related to Roman wars: online games, movies like Troy and Merong!

Now they can play Roman war! (Tsk..but mommy forced them to pose first!)

It's Dad's day

2011-06-25T09:35:00.002+08:00

The mister turned one year older yesterday.

You can always count on Najid to come up with self-made greeting cards with his own unique touch!

As their dad is not a man of many words..the kids are clueless on what to give him on his special day. Iqa said; we better buy things he can eat as we can never go wrong with food (and she knows she can have it too!). Cakes are compulsory for the birthdays in our family, but this time she suggested a different type of cake: ice-cream cake.

Two cakes for dad!

The Chocolate Oreo cake

The coffee cake

One candle only as too many makes it crowded..the mister said!

Guess who was more excited to blow the candles!

Happy birthday darling; the best hubby and the best dad, we love you!

Hope sweetness lingers in our life forever and ever!

I Googled Myself

2011-06-23T07:35:00.001+08:00

Lucy, a sweet regular blogfriend who has rich poetry experience, came up with this post and she was inspired by this clever post.

It's all about googling yourself and discover the side that's not you. I do google myself sometimes and gets a little worried that it actually brings people to this blog..it shouldn't actually as I don't put my full name here..but anyway, I'm not too shaken as I'm not that popular compared to Pippa Middleton or Justin Bieber...you can't do me any harm by stalking me..LOL!

So here's some little things I discover...and I did told Lucy that I'm not a poet like her..so I just will say my words as they come out from my brain..

I'm not a professional wedding photographer
though I have to admit I'm pleasantly surprised if fate turnes me into one!

I'm not another talented high school girl who posted her rendition of songs on YouTube
though if YouTube exists 20 years ago, I might be tempted too!

I'm not on Friendster, Twitter or Myspace..
though I do have an active Facebook account; which suffers love-hate relationship with me..

I've never signed up for American Idol,
I've never imagined my first name is an English surname,
and I can never imagine it as an English first name too.

I'm not a teacher,
I'm not the fourth child of seven siblings,
I don't live in Penang or the UK,
I'm not a father to a cute newborn,
I'm not a pianist,
I'm not a professor of cello.

Have you tried googling yourself?

So Sorry!

2011-06-21T07:38:00.000+08:00

Dear Wordpress friends,

I regret to say that at the moment the nasty laptop I'm using won't allow me to read any of your blogs. My countless attempts to open them come to no avail. I'm so sorry.

I still remember you guys and appreciate your comments. Thank you for dropping by to mine and putting your marks even though I can't do the same to you. How I miss your colourful blogs!

Waiting for the other laptop to come back to end this misery of mine..

Seaside=Playside

2011-06-20T06:59:00.000+08:00

The seaside is meant for play..for old and youngs..and young-at-hearts..

Some last notes about the Pulau kapas trip:

1. Pulau Kapas is one of Malaysia's Marine Reserve Park; so we're probihited from bringing back sea shells or corals..thus I only took pictures of them. We could always ignore the rules..nobody checks our bags; but with all my heart I let the magical rocks back to where they belong..

2. The island is not one of the best islands Terengganu can offer..it lacks of safety precautions and good tourism management, but maybe things are meant to be kept that way. As natural as an island can be.

3. The mister was nearly drowned when he was too carried away with his attempt to snorkel alone. We're so lucky that my brothers are swimmers and they were around. I couldn't imagine what could have happened if it was only the five of us. I can't swim and it's impossible for me to rescue anybody in the sea.

4. Dad and mom spent almost all the time resting in the chalet. They were too exhausted by the journey. Sometimes I wonder why dad insists on trips like this. But when he's all fresh from the rest, his eyes sparkled again watching the grandchildren laughing and playing at the beach!

5. Believe it or not..the last time all of us four siblings went for a vacation like this was when none of us were married. We took this opportunity to rebond and rekindle our love. We quarrel, we condemned each other, we purposely farted at each other (we're BAD bunch!), we laughed..that's what we did. That's so natural of us the four Abdul Jalil's children!

Heroes are Human Being after all..

2011-06-19T06:38:00.001+08:00

Not very long time ago, we used to rely on him for things. The faulty pipes, car break down, electricity hiccups..we can count on dad to find a solution. I was not good at cutting open pineapples and peeling mangoes because those jobs used to be his; he always made sure everything is ready for his kids to indulge! He's also the hero who got rid of any waste..garbage disposal is his 'department'..so mom never has to worry a thing about that.

But six months ago, we finally realised that our hero is human after all. His sudden fall into the world of stroke changed everything. Now our hero relies on us for the simplest thing. And tears are his constant companion.

When we're kids, we used to count days when holidays and weekends will arrive..for we know dad will always bring us out for sight-seeing and the world of adventures. We've toured zoos and Melaka's attractions...the road trips to northern states when there was no highways..the beach side picnic during birthdays...they are all sweet childhood memories that can never be erased from our mind. Dad was responsible to plan them all. He had that adventurous spirit that says the fun is all out there!

The dad I see now waits for every Saturday to come and asked who will be coming home. He sometimes claims every day as Saturdays..much to mom's dismay and keeps on asking why none of his children comes back and visits him. And when answers don't satisfy him, he'll cry like a child..The only things that can make his eyes sparkle is when any of us reach home. He wants us to bring him out, bring him to see the world; the sea is his favourite.

After the memorable Pulau Kapas trip, his mind wanders wildly for other tourist spots. He wants to feel it again..the wonders of being with his grandchildren, the happiness of being taken care of by his much-missed children, the joy of getting away from the boring home environment.

Yesterday, dad called me again and asked me to set a date in July for another family vacation in Port Dickson, a beach attraction 2 hours from our Melaka home..he said this time it's a short one. I can read between the line. He just want us all to be there; even though just for a night.

It made me cry inside to see how our hero has to plea for us to set some time for him.

And how can we say no. To a man who had made us..us.

Yes, dad. Yes, my hero. We'll be there for you.

And yeah, Happy Father's Day, dad!

Their First Flight

2011-06-17T09:20:00.000+08:00

The recent trip to Terengganu marked a history to our kids. We decided to travel from KL by air; the first flight ever for the kids. They were so super-duper excited!

Watching the aircrafts from the viewing area at the airport..Najla insisted she wants the orange plane!

Najla surprisingly was at ease and good with the saftey belt

Najid was cool too

All went smoothly except for Iqa. I had prepared ear plugs and chewing gums for the kids on board; just in case they experience ear pain due to the air pressure. Najid and Najla didn't have any problems at all. Iqa on the other hand suffered throughout the flight. The ear plug and the gums didn't work for her. She even cried when the pain was too unbearable.

I told her we'll find for some more solutions after this.

I don't want this to her last flight experience; she will go far of course!

I found this site: Ear problems

Do you have any tips?

Our Snorkelling Story

2011-06-15T10:04:00.000+08:00

"Snorkeling (British spelling: snorkelling) is the practice of swimming on or through a body of water while equipped with a diving mask, a shaped tube called a snorkel, and usually swimfins. In cooler waters, a wetsuit may also be worn. Use of this equipment allows the snorkeler to observe underwater attractions for extended periods of time with relatively little effort."

I've heard a lot about it..especially since Malaysia is surrounded by heavenly underwater paradise; so it's a popular activity around here but never before dreamed of trying it myself (especially as I can't even swim!).

In Pulau Kapas, our vacation package came with snorkelling activity included. So, minus our parents, all of us plus the little kiddos went on the speed boat one fine afternoon for the snorkelling session.Except for my brother, none of us had tried this before. But the little kids were super-excited about it!

I was told by my brother that normally a licensed instructor will teach first-timers all the necessities and how-abouts of snorkelling before letting them into the big blue sea. But our guide was no licensed instructor. And he simply passed us the life-jackets, the snorkels and the goggles. And asked us to jump straight.

No swimfins, no briefing.

As Najla was not comfortable with large goggles and snorkels, I decided to stay on the boat with her. And determined not to try either. I'll just take pictures. I can't swim, remember?

Just the two of us..plus the guides.

The ones who jumped in had to discover themselves what was it like. Najid's life-jacket was oversized; but the rest managed to make sure it's tight enough for him. One kid suffered cramps initially but he recovered later. Most of them were puzzled with the correct way to deal with the snorkel and the life jackets but eventually found their way.

And really enjoyed witnessing beautiful life under the sea!

After snorkelling around for what seems like forever to me, my siblings yelled to me to join them. One of them will take care of Najla while I have a try, they said.

So that was it.

I struggled with the snorkel at first; not knowing which part to bite..feeling weird wearing big, funny, restricting goggles..but upon persuasion from many parties..I finally jumped..not knowing if I'll be back safely in one piece!

Being in the big blue sea was nice but my main problem was..how to move? I barely know what to do with my hands and feet..like what the rest did; they paddled and swam naturally. My brother laughed at me as I looked like I was running in the water! I had to grab anyone near me so that they can drag me along when they move..

The site where I jumped no longer bear fishes or heavenly sea creatures; so I didn't enjoy much under water secenery.

Enough said, I didn't stay long in the water..but glad I've tried. Maybe next time we'll get a proper instructor with complete equipments so that snorkelling will be more fun. The mister and the kids enjoyed it..already talking about other snorkelling paradise in the country!

And next time Najla will sure have to jump in!

The Blue Therapy

2011-06-14T05:15:00.001+08:00

There's something about the sea...the waves, the shades of blue and its pure calmness that binds my heart to it every time I'm there. The sea fills up my soul like nothing else could ever does.

If you know what I mean.

Not Your Normal Vacation!

2011-06-12T07:17:00.000+08:00

To fulfill dad's wish, all of us went as a big group for a vacation in Pulau Kapas, a humble island outside Terengganu few days ago.

So much to share..so much to show..but I'll start with these faces first..

Dad finally smiled! (Though it did not seem so clear here..)

Some gripes and surprise

2011-06-05T06:33:00.000+08:00

I have been having issues with my computers at home actually. Our home laptop had crashed; thus we risk losing all the picture files I've painfully taken and kept in the hard disk. Yes, I had been procrastinating to keep them in safer place..so you can say serve me right..boo-hoo! I had lost a big chunk of my recent photos too when my work laptop (the one my employer loaned to me) crashed a month ago..so that's triple boo-hoo for me here!

Now I'm using the work laptop which is very much hated in the family. When I got it back from the 'laptop clinic', most files are wiped out..there's no way of retrieving them. Everybody in the house complains of it..even Iqa who now starts to frequent Facebook. I can't see some blogs I like, sometimes even Flickr site can't be opened. Some settings had been changed here by the laptop doctors; we just have to find out what.

But to my surprise this laptop mysteriously keeps very, very old photos which if I'm not mistaken was long deleted more than 5 years ago. They are photos of Iqa and Najid when there was only two of them. With digital photography, you tend to ignore photos since you don't print all of them..and these ones are clearly forgotten until we found them recently!

Okay, please bear with me as only moms do this..I know.

But I think they were way too cute here!

Saturday ramblings..

2011-06-04T12:06:00.000+08:00

Saw this powerful quote here

Know how to satisfy yourself with what you have

instead

of always running after what you would like to have.

Oh I must always remember that!

What I will do today:

1.Massive cleaning project again (just like every weekend!). The house might not boast of high-end furnitures or interior decoration but as our palace, it must be clean first.

2.Start creating check-list for things to pack. We'll be on a trip come Tuesday. So the responsibility is on me to make sure nothing important is left out. Can you feel my anxiety?

Not so-usual family weekend

2011-06-01T15:29:00.001+08:00

Last weekend my siblings and I were reunited under the roof where we were raised in Melaka. So many things happened, so many stories shared...quite impossible to spill them all here. I'm just putting some pics here..the house had undergone some renovation recently and the walls are freshly painted; some furnitures are brand new.

From left mys new SIL, little bro and my little sis..all engrossed with watching movie on laptop.

The house entrance..mom had done some makeover; some stuffs are still not sorted out.

Najla in her aunt's arms

Mom's favourite new couch

A picture of us once, when there's only 3 of us, (I was 10; see how tall!)..waiting to be hanged again.

Mom and dad both had shrunk; they weigh 63kgs only..compared to the parents I still see in my mind (and from this last pic)..bubbly, lively, fleshy and happy. We utilized the short time together to bond and especially for me to listen to much-kept feelings they have inside. My dad cried..a normal sight nowadays according to my sis; stroke patients has problem holding their tears I heard. It's heart-wrenching listening to his weep..but I pretended to be strong.

I wish I can snap some pictures of the two of them..but I did not have the heart..I just want to be there by their side and listen.

Maybe next time..in a happier mode.

Sisters

2011-05-30T09:56:00.001+08:00

Sisters. The ones who stick together whenever and,
for whatever reason.
Sisters. The ones who takes care of your heart,
when you can't.
Sisters. The ones you run to when in need
Sisters. The ones who guides you to make,
the right decisions
Sisters. The ones who help you with your pain,
when your mother isn't there.
Sisters. The ones who loves their little sister for who she is.

Bria Darj'ai Abbott

These few days my world revolves around my little sister..and also currently waiting to meet my elder sister. So, this poem says a lot.

Award

2011-05-26T05:09:00.001+08:00

It has been quite a while since I was made to play 'tag' in blogworld..I remember in the early years almost every blogs did it; maybe now bloggers are over that phase already!

Alia, the sweet young lady who's good at cooking (and bullying her siblings!) recently tagged me and honoured me with this award:

Thank you so much, Alia. I love you!

Upon receiving this award, I need to list 7 things about me..tsk tsk..as if I haven't exposed enough about myself. But okay, that's not difficult as you know well how I can bore you on and on about me..hehe. Here it goes..

1.I love purple, brown and pink. And currently in love with turqoise..thanks to this blog!

2. Don't ask me about any TV programmes. I don't watch Glee, American Idol, Korean dramas, Raja Lawak or Akademi Fantasia. I simply use TV for watching DVDs in my leisure time only. Don't have the time to be hooked on any TV series.

3. I hate smoking and smokers. I feel like hitting the car of people who smoke while driving!

4. I was already 1.62m tall and weighed 65kg when I was 12; which made me 'The Big Head Girl' in that school. I had fought the weight successfully since then. Ironically I am now at the same height and weight at 38!

5. I am currently staying away from rice, beef, mutton and shellfish. I hope to be a semi-vegetarian by the age of 60...hehe giving myself ample time first.

6. I'm currently hooked on interior decoration magazines and blogs.

7. I wonder when Justin Bieber can sound more like a man!

I also need to tag 7 other bloggers for this game; but I really can't do that..sorry Alia; please feel free to take up this tag if any of you feel like it.

Okay, task done.

I'm where I'm meant to be

2011-05-24T13:53:00.000+08:00

During a casual talk with a sales representative from a different company, I was stunned to hear that she openly admitted she hated her job. She hates driving from one place to another mainly; and she hates the fact that we're constantly chasing targets in this line.

Her words remind me of my complains in my earlier years. But I stayed for 11 years now. And I had not regretted it one bit.

I'm lucky.
I love meeting people of all sort.
I love it that I get to see different places each day.
I love it that I get to exchange views with people and learn new ideas.
I love it that I made friends as time goes by.
I love it that people love me.
I love it that people needs to purchase the products I carry.
I guess I'm lucky that I'm handling products that sell.

This job allows me to be a flexible working mom.
Enjoy freedom yet always be there for my family.

Like other aspects of life, it's no bed of roses actually.
But I've learned to accept everything as challenges and move forward.

I love my job.
I'm where I'm meant to be.

Mom's First Art

2011-05-23T05:32:00.001+08:00

if you can call that art..

The world today doesn't make sense, so why should I paint pictures that do?

Pablo Picasso

Najla insists she paints better picture..

Today..

2011-05-21T15:31:00.001+08:00

Some unwanted beauties before they were removed to give way for better plants

We're left with the only littlest kid at home..
The elder two join a school trip to fascinating places in KL

I started gardening again
after allowing the pots to be colonized by grass and weeds
for almost a year!

This time I chose mostly flower plants
of many different colours
much to Najla's delight;
and hope that they cope with me well!

So, how's your Saturday so far?

Surfing..while watching TV

2011-05-19T09:37:00.000+08:00

The Wet, wet Taiping

2011-05-18T10:02:00.002+08:00

A colleague told me that Taiping is the wettest town in Peninsular Malaysia. (for the record; the average annual rainfall is about 4,000mm in Taiping while the peninsula’s average is 2,000mm – 2,500mm). He even complained that it rains every time he comes to Taiping!

We're currently experiencing very hot weather in Ipoh; temperature ranges from 24 to 36 degrees Celcius and it hardly rains. So I thought how different can Taiping be; it's just 45 minutes away from Ipoh anyway.

With high hopes to venture new activities with the kids (I planned to bring them to museum and horse-riding) , we went last Sunday.

But our hopes were shattered. Into pieces.

Just after we walked out of the museum, it rained monsters and dragons!

But I snapped pictures anyway..(I stopped the car to shoot okay, I snapped when there's redlight..in case you're asking..hehe)

Taiping is one of those old town that boasts of many old, unique building..like the shophouses. I come here often for work purpose; so I don't bring camera on workdays.

This one is now a government office..cool.

The main signature of Taiping; the lake garden..also the first big one in Malaysia created by the British officials

And this is the school where I spent my one-year Matriculation course..the most memorable one year! Right in the heart of the lake garden..

I promised the kids we'll definitely coming back. We'll beat the rain!

The First Museum

2011-05-16T16:50:00.000+08:00

When I was little, I lived in the historical city of Melaka. So, visiting museums is as easy as going to the neighbourhood grocery shops; my dad brought us there often..there was no entrance fee too those days.

As for my kids, I haven't really exposed them to museums so far. Until Iqa requested me to. She had reached a stage when she's information-hungry; especially about culture and history. And realising that Najid and Najla are not that young either, I decided to bring them to Perak Museum in Taiping last Sunday; the first museum ever built in Malaysia in 1883 by the British officials. So ironic that it's their first museum tour and the first one I've been to in Perak.

And we were all amazed.

I fell in love with the building with its colonial architecture

Located just across the road from Taiping Prison, admission is FREE!

I just love the historical feeling of it!

Malay kings throne (they allow cameras inside!)


One of hundreds of pic of my three cuties taken that day! You know my weakness right..

We didn't know that apart from historical artifacts, the museum also offers wide collections of zoology too. The kids were shocked to know that you can kill animals, preserve them and put them in glasses. They asked if the mannequins are real people too..scary if they really were, don't you think?

More to bore you..sorry can't help it!

We enjoyed the educational trip. There's 6 more museums to see in Perak itself and many, many more to explore if you count the whole Malaysia. We'll take our time..

Free Soccer Session

2011-05-15T05:42:00.000+08:00

When Najid broke the news that a kindergarten owner had conducted free soccer training for the kids in our community; I thought.. no way. I had heard of so many sports training here before like badminton; and they all came with fees. But when I checked, it turned out to be true. Every Saturday and Sunday mornings, his friends attend this session and he begged me to send him. So I did yesterday.

Kids of all ages. Najid fourth from left.

Isn't that cute?

Najid in his MU jersey.

Najla in her PJs still and sunglasses.. it was sunny! She simply loves running around the field.

And get 'Kemuncup' from the tall grass stuck in her pants..

Some of Najid's 'biking gang' waiting for him

Cooling down

Paying respect and thanking the coaches

Free drinks for everybody!

That was tiring, mom!

But he said, he's coming again tomorrow!