Love's Holiday

Free Labour

2012-01-16T14:07:00.003+08:00

I brought Razin to the office last Saturday.

As usual, after we had breakfast, we gonna stop by at the stationery shop to buy his drawing/painting set. An hour later, from the cctv, I can see him running around from one end to the other.

Since he has so much energy, might as well I put it to good use.

I asked him to help me arranging things in my new office. What could be better than free labour !

Apparently, he loves his task.

Too much, I would say because this morning he kept on clinging to me to bring him to the office.

"Razin nak keje kat office Mummy".

How I wish we can trade places - I stay at home instead hehe.

Preppy Chic

2012-01-04T19:07:00.006+08:00

The other day during our mini gath, one of the topics we actively discussed was where to send our kids for primary school. It is still a few years more before any of our kids start 'real' school, but we, the overly concerned moms are quite anxious about the available options.

Well, we still have plenty of time to make a pick or strategize on how to enroll to the best schools. In the mean time, before the headache comes, I let myself drool on this new 'it' bag - The Cambridge Satchel.

Photos via http://www.cambridgesatchel.co.uk/

I have no idea how this bag suddenly becomes the talk of the town, or at least among the fashion bloggers community. The design doesn't exude luxury and I'm not sure if the leather does either.

The structured design is neat, which I like. But the most appealing part (for me laaa) is the name- Cambridge. Makes you feel genius instantly.

Hah, I look young enough to carry a 'school bag' around. But I can see Rizqin toting this to school every morning :)

A Quintessential Beginning

2012-01-03T18:22:00.003+08:00

I'm not sure how to describe 2011.

To start with, I've lost four people that year alone. I've been to all of the funerals and noticed there's no substitute for contentment in life than being surrounds with the people that you love and care about you.

I am truly grateful to God for a blessed life but somehow, there's always this evil voice in the head that whispers greed.

Recently, I've spoken casually to a few friends whom I secretly envied. They reside overseas and seem happy working and settling abroad. To my suprise, they envy me instead ! I'm married with a husband to talk to each day and kids to play with. Balenciaga bags can't buy all those love.

So I decided to end 2011 and start the new year, rekindling friendships.

Gosh, it was so nice to catch up with my school friends again and really sit down over lunch and talk for hours. I don't think we ever do this since everyone parted ways after school. We should have this mini gath every month !

All my nephews and niece were around for the first time, I guess. We, the aunts and uncles were the ones overly excited to take their group photos till they were restless sitting still and posing for the camera.

Well, they gonna appreciate it one day.

Cheers to a brand new year !

Friends Forever

2011-12-22T14:15:00.002+08:00

I heard that my former school ranks No 1 in Perak for PMR result.

*beaming in pride*

Though I will never send my kids to boarding schools, I will never deny the great time I had during my 5 years there.

Aahh, I miss my friends !

20112011

2011-12-15T13:57:00.006+08:00

Should blog about this in November , but I kept on thinking if any date is significant enough for me to remember, other than it was my dad's birthday.

I've becoming sloppy in planning lately. We ran out of idea on lunch venue, so we just stick to our favourite place.

Rizqin turned 18 months on 11/11/11, so that is such an important date, right?

I realised I haven't talked much about her here and I felt a bit guilty. She has been such an angel right after birth and all I can talk are moon and stars about her.

She is still very much dependent on me for milk. I am so proud of myself to go this far, though I have to admit, she needs to switch to formula milk very soon. I would love for her to continue as long as we can, but somehow I felt pity for her struggling to get milk from me. My supply has almost reached rock bottom.

Since she doesn't take ebm, she only drinks when I'm at home. She will make sure I feed her before I go to work. She even waited for me when I come back and quickly pulled my hand, "Mummy, nak susu".

Many regard her as 'small' for her age (when compared to Razin, I suppose) and I can't help feeling unpleasant with that remark. I would measure her height and her head circumference every now and then, out of paranoia that she doesn't grow normally. I'm gonna bring her to a routine check-up next month and see what the paed gonna say. I don't quite like when paeds are ignorant of the fact that she is a fully-breastfed baby and her growth can't be compared with formula-milk-fed babies.

Unlike Razin, she loves food. She even takes food from strangers and it seems food always calm her down. The downside of this, she assumes everything is edible, so we really have to watch what she puts in her mouth. One time, we even discovered she tried to chew a tiny pebble (the one you put in the pot for indoor artificial plant) !

Her vocabs are expanding on daily basis. She can construct a short sentence to express her needs. When showed photos in the book, she can recognise what is what. The other day, I pointed at a guitar and asked her what it is. Amazingly, she answered, "guitar". She is also currently learning to count 123.

Such a darling, she is.

Ain't Working Today

2011-12-09T13:23:00.009+08:00

Once in awhile, my other half and I would a take a day off from work and spend the whole day without the kids. We just did the routine goodbye kiss in the morning, like any other working days, and voila, liberty calls our name ! I know we have to be prepared with an explanation once they understand people don't carry a neon pink bag (with dangling tassels, if I may add) to work.

But if I want to check out preview sale or public sale for that matter, I rarely bring my other half along. Well, men don't comprehend all these shopping stuffs, so them tagging along is like, 'what for?', right ?

Here, my mom and my sister come into the picture. Tell them about a special sale with 70% discount, they'll be ready with handbags and matching blazers at the front door almost instantly. But getting out from the house is a bit trickier with the kids. They got the idea of me going to work (with a pink bag !), but going to the office with Nenek and Halida?

M&Ms comes handy at this crucial time.

So yesterday was one of those days when we need retail therapy and tea session in peace.

We dragged my mom everywhere in and out of shops in OU and Bangsar, in return we had to accompany her for grocery shopping. Fair deal.

What is this vegie? Looks like coral reef.

We got back home about the same time that I usually arrived from work. The kids didn't complaint but that won't be long before they will soon realise I don't go to work, but go for shopping instead.

For now, let me enjoy the time when they are still oblivious of how the world works :)

Birdie Land

2011-12-06T13:44:00.007+08:00

I'm crazy about ostrich leather now !

Ted Baker's purse via asos

Furla's wallet via bluefly

Rebecca Minkoff's Mini MAC via saks

Kate Spade

Sasha Rhett

Hungry Bird

2011-11-25T13:20:00.010+08:00

I wrote on my headache finding the right formula milk for Razin back then. I switched to multiple brands to suit his growing needs and discarded so much along the way. When he hit 3 years old, I decided to switch again. This time not mainly for dietary purposes, but more towards convenience.

I remember when we traveled overseas, I had to make a rough calculation on how many bottles he might consume the whole trip. Diapers and cans of milk powder took space of a one big bag. Imagine carrying kids and a few heavy bags around - tiring. The only good thing was when the trip came to an end, I had extra space to put my loots.

Since Razin has passed toddlerhood, I want to get rid of the dependency on formula milk. I prefer fresh milk in the small boxes, which are pretty much ubiquitous, but he didn't like it. So the next best thing is powdered milk from the generic brands. So far, he doesn't seem to mind the taste of different brands, as long as it is 'plain'. It is a big relief. At least whenever we plan to travel locally or abroad, I don't have to worry about his milk supply.

Now one dilemma is solved, I thought I can put my legs up and relax a bit.

Boy, here comes another challenge. If having a picky eater is already wearing me out, how about a picky eater who just doesn't want to eat anything? Well, except milk, if that can be considered as food.

I was born with a bad relationship with food. I hate so many things back then - milk, cheese, butter, pizza, basically all the heavy, fattening stuffs. When I entered boarding school, I had no choice but to like some of the things that I used to averse to. I discovered that corn puddings are quite tasty desserts and crispy fried fish are heaven-sent when coupled with hot sambal belacan.

Though I became less picky, I wasn't blessed with big appetite. I easily turned off at the sight of a big bowl of rice. Recently I watched 'What's Eating You' series in #733 about anorexics who are getting professional help in dealing with their eating disorders. I found one similarity with them, I like everything in small portions.

I was selective when it comes to food, but I was never in denial that I am thin. In fact, it was no fun being underweight because you gonna be hit with blatant remarks by insensitive people all the time.

So when Razin shows signs of being picky eater, how could I blame him? It's in the blood.

But what concerned me more that he just doesn't have the interest in food. The paed asked me to be creative. I've squeezed my right brain dry for ideas, but if he refused to open his mouth, what else can I do?

It is a rare occassion that he eats. He usually drinks 7 0z milk (which is diluted because he doesn't like it being too thick) almost every hour. Sometimes, 2 bottles. If he's in a good mood (not because he's hungry), he will ask me for a toast with Nutella/peanut butter.

The only food that he likes, besides chocolates and ice-creams, is the Nyonya Fried Rice at Sri Melaka. Now with Tutty Fruity just a few steps away from that restaurant, it is even harder to cajole him for a few spoonful of rice. Like any mother would do, I normally make a pact with him - he eats rice, he gets ice-cream. Success factor varies anyhow.

Some would convince me it's okay as long as he drinks milk. I would love to think the same, but as the saying goes, 'a hungry man is an angry man'. He loses his temper very quick and vented out his anger by screaming and crying hysterically. Sometime his innocent sister Rizqin would come nearby at the wrong time and get a kick in her face.

Yesterday I bought Pediasure and mixed 1 scoop inside his current milk. He refused a bottle of all-Pediasure, so I guess that is the closest I can get into putting some necessary nutrients in his diet.

I feel like hitting the wall already. Ideas/solutions/stories would probably make feel a little bit better.

Gifts from Above

2011-11-16T17:10:00.009+08:00

Yesterday during dinner with my mom, I complained to her that (I think) I looked fat.

Mirrors don't lie - that multiple folds of fat at the tummy seem to be permanent fixtures.

Of course, like anyone else trying not to be rude to another woman regarding weight issue and fearing I might turn anorexic the next day, my mom and my sister ostensibly denied it.

But then my mom said, "Appetite is also a form of rezeki".

Courteous or not, I felt better instantly. *add another plate of rice*

(If only some of that appetite can be turned into money hehe).

Speaking about rezeki, I come to think that this rainy season is some sort of rezeki for me too. Rezeki that all my blazers are now able to come out from their hidings and be paraded proudly.

My growing collection of casual blazers, mostly from Zara.

Some of blazers that will further deplete my bank account :

sequin blazer to go to Pitbull's concert (kidding !)

I'm sucker for anything bold so this is probably an impulse

tux blazer - have been looking for it like forever (justification)

Anyone else blazer-crazy too (besides my mom and my sister)?

Merely Words

2011-11-14T18:20:00.005+08:00

My other half and I have a very special relationship (well, besides being husband and wife), we only converse in English language. It started that way from the beginning when we met that our own mother tongue is considered a very alien language to us.

Razin picked up English very fast too (thanks to Playhouse Disney channel) and I'm very impressed at his vocabulary, though most of them came from the cartoons obviously.

Since we have been so accustomed to speaking English day in day out, I tend to blurt some non-kids friendly words too, like 'sh*it' (urghhh have to get rid of it) and 'damn'.

So far, it hasn't reached his ears (and the other little one) yet, and I'm trying hard to break the habit of saying those words out of frustration or for whatever reasons.

It gonna be difficult to explain to him once he starts using those ugly words, thus I keep reminding myself to watch what I say.

Nonetheless, it's kinda funny to hear him saying, "Ouh, not again !" when he couldn't find the specific number on the flash cards.

Razin even teased me, "Come on man..." when I had trouble putting on his shoes.

Now, should I laugh or what?

great weekend

2011-11-08T00:32:00.002+08:00

this is how i spent my long weekends - great !

Let's Be Friends

2011-10-24T19:01:00.003+08:00

Philip Bailey (from Earth Wind and Fire), Ashanti and Michael Bolton on one stage with David Foster?

Which hits weren't written/produced by David Foster? I'd be crazy if I didn't go.

I was still disappointed with Westlife concert (do you know that they disbanded right after they finished the Gravity Tour? They announced Greatest Hits Tour at the same time of the announcement, looks like they have planned it all out. Clever). So I thought, don't waste anymore money, just grab the cheapest tickets.

We were late and look where we sat - the last row of the upper deck.

The concert kicked off with Charice and later Russell Watson.

Haaa...who is Russell Watson? Never heard of him.

But his voice was amazing, the tenor/soprano kind of voice that will somehow put you too sleep if too much of it hehe. He sang mostly non-English songs (Italian, I guess) so it was a tad difficult to appreciate.

Ashanti was something to remember too that night. She sang her own songs which brought me back circa 2004, when all I listened to was solely RnB. Nothing else. Thus all her numbers are not aliens to me.

Her voice was mesmerizing. She sang Whitney Houston's songs from The Bodyguard - I Have Nothing and I Will Always Love You. Well, not many can pull that high note for sure. She did it like a breeze.

Then came Philip Bailey. I just can't sit still with EWF's songs. The moment he sang, September, I jump on my feet and danced. The rest (my other half, my mom and my sister) were not sporting. No fun la them.

David Foster certainly saved the best for last. When Michael Bolton appeared, everyone cheered hysterically.

Remember him?

When A Man Loves A Woman, How Am I Supposed To Live Without You, Georgia On My Mind...remember? This man deserves a full blown concert.

happy face at 1 am

Agent Nora

2011-10-17T13:46:00.003+08:00

Have you watched Nora?

Gosh, if you haven't, please do so. It is very entertaining !

They gonna have a few more extended shows so get your tickets quick. Coupon code MAXIS for 50% off, and boy I wish I knew it earlier, we could have bought better seats.

Bookworms

2011-10-16T10:07:00.007+08:00

Malaysians don't read books?

I bet those who claimed that are living under a big rock. They should have gone to the Big Bad Wolf Sale last week and see with their own eyes how Malaysians buy books by the boxes. A bevy of bookworms took the trouble walking under the hot sun from the parking bays (some cheated and took the shuttle bus hehe, we didn't. Exercise maaa !) with luggage bags/trolleys and made a bee line to the entrance.

Once inside, I was stunned seeing so many books stacked up. 1.5 million books, where shall I start?

Good thing, books are segregated by genres, thus people didn't go berserk like trying to find a needle in the haystack. There was also ample space for you to browse and flip each and every book without nudging the next person's elbow. In fact, this must be the most civilised warehouse sale I've ever been to. Nary an announcement reminding you about pickpockets, just occasional ones on 'lost husbands'.

Most books are priced at RM 5 or RM 8.
So dirt cheap, we bought 23 books altogether - for RM 230 only !

Malaysians do read after all.

Fool Again

2011-10-12T11:26:00.002+08:00

I know I'm kinda stuck in the 80s when it comes to music.

In actual fact, I do listen to the new generation of songs, though I have to admit, I am very selective. My other half always teased me of being 'old' but I just don't know why songs that emerge after the 90s are just not my cup of tea.

Of course, there are a few exceptions. Westlife is one of them.

I am not a fan of boy bands. I just enjoy their songs. I'm not one of those girls who goes ga-ga with pin-up posters in the bedroom. I never had a crush on celebrities, thus I don't comprehend the magnitude of craziness surrounds those who has.

The evening when we (my mom and my sister included) were supposed to be serenaded by Westlife turned out to be a very disappointing one. We expected them to sing songs from the earlier albums. Instead they sang just a few of their own numbers (I Lay My Love On You, Flying Without Wings - that's it?) and the rest are none of theirs.

I don't come here to listen to them singing Bad Romance (Lady Gaga), When I Ruled The World (Coldplay), etc. We paid for Westlife, not anyone else.

One girl behind us kept on screaming aimlessly throughout the concert that we became almost deaf afterwards. We screamed too, "WAAAAAAHHHH", when they got on the stage and when they started to sing a familiar tune. This girl was all "AAAAAAAAAAAAA" all the time. With no apparent reason. It was down right annoying.

One school-age couple in front of us blocked our view all the time, by taking photos non-stop. A few photos are acceptable, for keepsake, I understand. But 500 photos?

This was the only concert I wish they have refund policy.

Not for this lady who was proposed by her boyfriend on stage. She had a truly memorable experience.

The three of us left the concert, unsatisfied. Perhaps, I'm already too old to mingle with schoolkids crowd. Should take a point from my other half - go to adult concert only.

I will, from now on.

R.I.P

2011-10-06T14:27:00.000+08:00

Thank you for the Ipad and Ipod.

So Much Work?

2011-10-04T14:05:00.005+08:00

The only way to get things organized and done is to come out with a To-Do List. Well, that works for me so far.

I'll jot down every single thing to do in my physical organizer (don't believe smartphones are that smart), from office tasks, birthday reminders, hotel reservation code to IC no/Passport no of all my family members and office colleagues.

Once a task accomplished, I'll line it with a yellow highlighter. In fact, it is pure joy to see so many yellow lines.

It has proven to work for me for years, thus I can't live without my organizer. I bring it everywhere, including for balik kampung trip.

It's year 2011 and I thought to bring myself up a notch when it comes to organizing. So I browsed for a freeware that is simple and most importantly, has the elements I required :

* featured at desktop for easy viewing
* standalone, not web-based.
* all to-do tasks are listed and ticked off once done

Found it !

Life at work is so much better.

Download Doomi to see how much work you really have. Make sure your boss get a glimpse of your list too :D

What Matters Most?

2011-10-03T11:46:00.008+08:00

I watched Keeping Up With The Kardashians (apparently, the only reality tv I haven't grown bored yet) last night, up to the episode where Kim lost her diamond studs in the ocean.

She was very upset, but I didn't blame her. The studs worth 75k !

I also lost my diamond studs recently. I brought a couple other earrings to swap with, and I didn't keep my diamond studs in a proper case. The next thing I know, it was gone. I suspected it dropped from the zipped case (with a gap !) while I was busy taking out my clothes from the luggage bag. The housekeeping staff came earlier in the morning to make my hotel room, I immediately knew it is now somewhere in their vacuum cleaner.

That earrings was just a fraction of Kim's, but it held sentimental values. My mom bought it for me many years ago and I've been wearing it ever since. Took it off once in while, switching it with more glamorous earrings, but never for long.

But her now-husband Kris Humphries' words made me ponder, "I would never own anything that would upset myself that much if I lost it. It's material."

That was the exact same thing ran inside my mind the minute I lost the studs. I was at the brink of losing my temper and crying hysterically, when I remembered something that I often asked myself when distinguishing things that matter in life.

If I am stuck under a rumble of a fallen building, does ____________ matters?

Filled up the empty space with Chanel PST, Mulbery Mini Alexa, CC Skye chain bracelet, Vita Fede bracelet, Christian Louboutins' nude pumps, leopard-print French Sole flats, diamond studs.

Does it matter?

NO.

Sometimes we are too caught up in what the media and society want us to be, we forgot who we really are, what we really want and what we really need. But at the end of the day, we are the one who decide what matters most in life.

Yeah, I want a new bag, but that can wait. Morning kisses from my kids are something I won't trade with anything in this world. The people I love and the people who care for me, are what matters most to me.

Where Have I Been?

2011-09-29T17:05:00.002+08:00

I have been very busy of late.

So many meetings which equals to extra works, that I wish I can bring back home. I have no qualm doing office works at home (after the kids fall asleep, that is), even though I have to sacrifice my 'tv time'. But it is getting difficult doing so as Razin and Rizqin tend to extend their waking hours lately. By the time they dozed off, I myself already felt sleepy.

In between, it's nice to catch up with my good friends at our Open House recently. The thing about studying in a boarding school, my friends don't live in the neighborhood. All of them are scattered all over the country and now most are married, it is getting harder to see them anymore.

So when we meet, we can talk till tomorrow. That's why their husbands took them away from me so quick before they are glued to the chairs for good.

I wanted to write so much about my kids, you know, the things that about them growing up. But each time I wanted to turn on my laptop, I thought I rather give myself a bit of rest after a long day at work.

I just figure out it is quite easy to access Blogger via blackberry, so perhaps, I'll be writing more short posts after this.

*continue with office work*

ZigZag

2011-09-12T12:56:00.005+08:00

Now that the launch date is drawing near (Sep 13), I get very excited.

I can't afford to pay full-price, thus collaborations with famous designers/brands are somewhat 'friendly' for my pocket.

Missoni for Target has come out with 400 items in the collection so it's hard not to like something. Here are some of the items that caught my attention. Hope I can beat everyone else in this online shopping madness.

Next is Versace for H&M that will be available early 2012.

A Friend Called Cookies

2011-09-06T23:48:00.004+08:00

You know what I'm looking forward to when visiting during this festive season?

Of course, the food.

But to be more specific, the biskut raya !

I love how people become extra creative with the decoration of the cookies. Since all cookies are made using about the same basic recipe - flour, butter, well you can't run away from the essential ingredients, thus to make it stands out from other cookies in the next glass container is the appearance.

Remember how I often bought chocolate oats cookies from Wondermilk, which I eventually got the recipe online and baked it from scratch? That cookies was so special that I risked my kitchen from burning down to bake it.

How can it not having a soft spot in me when it's like a long lost friend?

I came across that chocolate oats cookies when I was in school, 1995 to be exact (see how special it was?). A friend of mine passed around the dorm that cookies from her hometown after we got back from Hari Raya break.

The first bite, I was stunned. How come biskut raya taste this good? It has the bitter sweet taste from the chocolate, the crunchiness of the baked oats and the sweetness from the white powder coating (later I got to know it was milk powder) combined to make it very distinctively tasty.

She didn't bring much and I was quite embarrassed to ask for more. Her aunt didn't agree to reveal the recipe, claiming it is her 'trademark', errrrr...okayyyy. There I was, carrying the exceptional taste of that cookies in my mind for years.

About 10 years after that, while helping my grandmother to put all her biskut raya in the containers, I saw a familiar face. My jaw dropped and I almost shed tears. So dramatic, I know, but I've been looking for it for so many years !

The next few days after our encounter, I sat at one corner gobbling everything till the last dust. If I were to die the next day, I was glad one of my wishes is fulfilled.

Now that I can have it anytime I want (just turn on the over, voila !), chocolate oat cookies no longer holds that special place in my tummy.

Guess what, I've found a new friend !

A few days before Aidilfitri, I went to Whisk (in Empire) and saw a new cake. I think they called it Lattington - vanilla cake coated with chocolate and coconut.

Remind me of Bounty too

So if you ask me how's my new friend's taste like? She's the cookies version of Lattington and Bounty.

In case I don't see this cookies anymore, Lattington is just 5 minutes drive away :)

New Joy

2011-09-04T01:36:00.004+08:00

I'm still very much kicking and alive, in case you are wondering. The last Ramadhan month had made me so lazy to turn on my laptop, let alone to start typing. That's what happened when you visited Pasar Ramadhan everyday and stuffed yourself to the brim during Iftar.

I have to admit, for the first time I felt sad the holy month has left us. Somehow I'm glad laziness crept in when it comes to blogging because I spent that time to embrace Ramadhan and felt much closer to the Almighty. May God bless our ibadah and lead us to become a better person. Amin.

I missed my Hari Raya days where we would go back to my dad's hometown in Melaka a few days before Aidilfitri. The commotion of the elder relatives cooking for the big day whilst the younger one busy with playing fireworks were not present anymore in my kampung. After my grandma passed away in 1997 and subsequently her sister a few years after that, the aura has never been the same. Then two months before Ramadhan, 2 of my dad's uncles passed away and it created even bigger void in our extended family.

I realized this kind of thing can either divide a family further or make them closer. Being the ones who live, we are responsible to make that call. Being a planner like always, I booked my whole family in the same hotel for this Hari Raya.

Yeah, sounds funny right spending Aidilfitri in a hotel? Isn't Aidilfitri about victory and being together?

Luckily we took this photo before we drove off to my in-law's.

By the time we arrived at my grand's, my two kids just disappeared !

2nd Syawal - we had a heart breakfast at McD with everyone of us. McD made us forgot it's Hari Raya !

2nd Hari Raya without baju kurung and baju melayu (my bro)

family time in the pool

yours truly finishing all the biskut raya at my grand's

Truth is, I envy those who still feel the vibe of Aidilfitri like my younger days - the kampung way. My kids won't even know how it's like and I thought that is such a loss. Then again, time flew and perhaps by the time they understand this celebration, it would be a different kind of ambience altogether. They have cousins who are about the same age, uncles and aunts who watch them grow and grandparents who have been with them almost all year round.

I reckon it would make a great family portrait.

Pre-Raya Cookies

2011-08-11T11:42:00.004+08:00

It's only 11th day of Ramadhan, but I have already received almost all biskut raya that I ordered. Oh boy, I really hope it can last till Hari Raya itself.

Can't stand watching them sit still on the dining table, so I opened one of my favorites.

Almond Flakes

I bought 4 canisters of this alone, just in case other family members adore it as much as I do. Totally not for sharing.

Hungry

2011-08-08T23:14:00.006+08:00

Of late, I've been bugging my other half with world problems.

I don't know about the rest of you peeps, but I feel the famine in East Africa receives very less attention that it should. Or maybe I didn't tune to the right tv channel?

They are now experiencing the worst drought in 60 years and it left estimated 11 million people on the brink of starvation. Today I came across online a photo of 6-month old baby with merely skin and bones. I almost cried at my work station.

I have lots of EBM in the fridge waiting to be discarded anytime soon. If only I can transport to them in need.

If every one in this country spares just RM 30 a day, 5 people over there won't sleep on empty tummy.

Why didn't we help? We are known as generous and assertive people, why not this time? I felt guilty each time I bought stuff from Pasar Ramadhan because I know, on the other part of the world, millions are almost dying of starvation. Here I am with handful of food that can last till the next day.

After some readings, I got to know delivery of aids is very difficult due to the challenges faces from the Islamic militants. I was baffled. How can a Muslim can do injustice to another fellow Muslim?

I tried to search for a body where I can donate within my means, but most of them are US religious organisations. I don't want to fund for missionary works, but I wonder why there is no help from the Islamic nation? So far, I didn't hear any.

I felt so bad thinking I am so blessed right here and do nothing to ease their predicament.

My other half think we should focus on the root of this problem before tackling how to help them indefinitely. He shed some light on the political scenario there but still, I do feel we can't wait for bigger problems to be solved, to lend a helping hand.

I hardly understand why this time around, I can't brush it off as none of my problems. Maybe because I'm fasting, thus I know better how it's like to be hungry.

Home Buffet

2011-08-04T13:56:00.002+08:00

With the endless choices of food at Pasar Ramadhan (Stadium Shah Alam), I think I'm gonna gain weight instead.

My weakness - Laksa Johor

My other half tried Nasi Ambeng - looks good right?

The dining table at my mom's has become quite crowded with everyone of us around. We don't mind squeezing extra chairs, but it is difficult to pass food from one end to the other.

Since we don't have space to cater for bigger one than the current table-for-8, my dad suggested we should have buffet style when breaking fast.

We have 2 dining tables at home, so one for dining and another to put all those palatable food.

Just hope my mom won't charge us RM 25 per pax :P

Serendipity

2011-08-01T23:28:00.006+08:00

What a long silence.

I wanted to write, but this laptop with missing keys (haven't fixed it yet, urghhh) really discouraged me from doing so. I'm thinking of getting a new one, save the hassle of transporting it back and fro to the repair shop. But not easy on the wallet though. *sigh*

Speaking about shop, what's up with KL people last weekends?

The road to Mid Valley was so jammed up till no one can enter the parking. My brother warned me as they were forced to go to One Utama instead. When I got to One Utama, we even had to park at the open carpark !

Is everyone thinking the malls are closing for one whole month for Ramadhan? Looks like everyone is on good vibes and shop like there's no tomorrow.

Well, I know some people hate crowd, but sometimes, the more the merrier, right?

Seriously, with that kind of crowd, I don't know what's left in the shops anymore. If you truly believe in last-minute shopping for better deals, you gonna end up with nothing at all this time.

I don't think I will make any courtesy visit to shopping malls during fasting month. Chasing 2 high-energy kids on an empty tummy is not something I can even imagine. Thus, like everyone else who think they will abstain from shopping this whole month, I (almost) spent every single penny last weekend. Nearly fainted when I see my bank balance this morning.

But there's nothing cheer you up on Monday blues than a spanking (new) shoes, right?

I just found a 'gem' in the shoes department. Super comfy (just like my Easy Spirit shoes) and high enough for shorty like me.

Shoeberry at Isetan.

Even my little girl can't so no to my 4-inch high wedges.

The best part is the price. It's either the manufacturer messed up with unit cost pricing or they don't know the value of a good pair of shoes.

Hopefully they will stay in the dark forever hehe.

Wishing you peeps 'Selamat Berpuasa'.

Wrong Date #2

2011-07-24T00:32:00.004+08:00

My camera is finally back in my possession after a week with my sister. Hah, they (my brothers and sister) eventually realized how handy this camera is, compared to lugging around a heavy DSLR in and out the stadiums for the football matches. For the first time I got compliments over my choice of gadget :P

Remember about my wrong date syndrome?

The second one was an advertising expo in KL, which I was invited 2 weeks prior to that event. When we reached the hotel, there was no signage about the event and I couldn't see anyone dressed up in office attires. People around us were all tourist with luggage waiting for cabs.

My brother checked the event board at the lobby, "Are you sure it's today?"

"Errr...yeah...it's today...but wait, let me check the invitation".

"Damn, not today. Next week !!!!"

I have always been the perfect person who keeps track of everything, thus when I screwed up once in a blue moon, they just made fun of it for days.

Looking at the bright side, our wallets got to see the sunshine.

It's not everyday you are lucky enough to watch a shooting of a Tamil drama :D

Though Pavilion is like my 5th home, I have never been to their newly renovated neighbour KL Plaza, now called Fahrenheit 88.

KL Plaza do hold some memories of my younger days - the era when the 'it' place was the Golden Triangle. On the ground floor, almost hidden was the Bally boutique where you can get a leather bag with chain straps at merely 2k. That was 15 years ago. *sigh*

The Coffee Bean for my cup of decaf coffee after a long walk from Sg Wang Plaza to Starhill (The selection of shoes at Tangs at that time was awesome).

The Tower Records, where I exchanged smiles with 98 Degrees' Nick Lachey.

The changes are prominent. Most of the old shops are no longer there. But thank God, the changes are for the better. By that I mean, 3-storey Uniqlo !

I've been looking for a bra tank top for a looooong time. I mean, a comfy one.

I don't wear very sheer tops, but for semi-sheer, I found it quite a hassle to wear bra and a tank top at the same time. In our weather where daytime can hit 33 C, layering only breaks you into a pool of sweats.

I cringed to buy one in each colour when I saw them hanging prettily. Soft, lightweight, not too long, great fit, reasonably-priced. Then it hit me that I only need them as innerwear, so what's the point buying the floral ones?

Can't take wallets for fresh air like this.

But seriously, if you also hate the double layer thing with sheer clothes, head to Uniqlo. You'll thank me later.

Old?

2011-07-18T00:38:00.006+08:00

My sister has been pestering me to get a Blackberry.

Obviously, so that I am on bbm.

On the other hand, I don't understand why should I be on bbm. Aren't sms and mms effective enough? I can send message to multi-networks instead of just confined to those on bbm. Isn't that efficient? Well, in my opinion bbm is just a redundant service (which you have to pay for !).

But I'm on the fence right now. Like my other electronic items, my handphone also received the same fate (of dying soon) due to the rough treatment from my kids. The touchscreen has gone haywire and it is pain in the neck just to scroll for menus.

Initially I thought of getting a very basic phone. As long as it can make/receive calls, sms & mms, I am a happy camper . But the thought of updating facebook status right there and then is somewhat fun too. Though I'm not the kind of person of telling the whole world my whereabouts every minute, but sharing precious moment when it happens is way exciting than telling the story a few hours later (upload photos to laptop, what a hassle).

I don't like generalizing people, but I can't help it with people with Blackberry. As much as they thought they are connected to everybody else with that small black thing in their palm, I see them as a selfish bunch.

They text away in the meeting, while everybody else debating on a serious issue. They don't make eye contact when talking because they are busy typing. Worse, they don't even know what they are talking about because they are engaged in another conversation, online.

Gosh, we are living with many non-humans these days.

Ten years ago, these kind of people were labeled as rude. But in 2011, etiquettes? Never heard about it. Let alone, courtesy.

Seriously, that is my main reason not to get a Blackberry earlier. I'm so scared I'll end up losing touch of the real world.

I'm still deliberating.

Or perhaps, I am officially OLD?

Wrong Date #1

2011-07-05T00:03:00.003+08:00

I don't know what got into me lately.

I had read 2 invitation dates WRONGLY.

If it was not for my sister who checked the invitation herself, we would have waited in front of the store for a special sale that happen the day before.

I couldn't believe I queued just to get the goodies bag (for the first 300). I thought I am already too old for this. Just imagine how many else took leave just to get the 20% discount for Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Miss Selfridge merchandises..

They always came out with genius ideas on how to lure you to spend more. Look who fell into the trap this time hehe. Luckily, she got a clutch (rather than a pen !)

Shopping 101 : Don't bring companions (who loves to shop) shopping with you.

Though my mom equally loves shopping, she tagged us along so that we won't spend so much ! We, on the other hand, brought her so she can pay some of OUR stuffs hehe.

Will blog on #2 soon.

Milky Way

2011-07-04T22:53:00.005+08:00

Earlier this year, I wrote about my struggle on breastfeeding.

Despite all sorts of milk booster supplements, my supply still couldn't cope with her demand. She consumed 3 bottles of 3.5 oz EBM daily but I hardly produced that much during day-time pumping sessions.

Instead, I had to add up another pumping session at night. But my body was so funny, once at home, getting even 1 oz was almost impossible. To make matters worse, she often woke up for milk when I just about to start pumping. There went my precious supply for tomorrow.

So just imagine how I felt going to work the next day knowing I left not enough milk for her.

With no frozen EBM left, I made a point to go to the office slightly late to cater for her morning feeding. I even had to rush back home because she cried helplessly - hungry. It was so difficult for me especially when I have meetings very early in the morning or meetings that extend beyond office hours.

I tried to supplement with formula milk, but she threw up instantly. I was at my wit's end trying to figure out the best for her. I cut her milk intake from 3 to 2 bottles as that was what I able to produce. This thing went on for a few months until one day in April, while nursing, I caressed her hair and whispered to her, "Rizqin, Mummy's milk is not enough. Mummy is so tired and don't know what else to do....can you please drink formula..."

I couldn't remember the exact date but I was pretty sure, a few days after that she turned to 'reverse cycling'. She refused milk during the day. However, she never missed breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breads and rice became her favourite food.

I was perplexed by this development. But at the same time, I was relieved. I no longer had the anxiety during working hours whether she was starving at home. I can concentrate on my work more, and boy, I realized I was like a zombie all these while in the office. My mind just couldn't focus because I had my priority on my milk supply 24/7.

It has been more than 3 months now. She still doesn't take EBM during the day. Back then I was all worried about my diminishing freezer stash, today I whine about how small my fridge is. Since she only breastfeeds, now I have surplus frozen EBM. Soon, I even have to discard some to make room for new milk.

Every morning before I go to work, she will pat my chest to remind me of her morning nursing session. Right after I come back from work, she will run to me and do the same thing - for the evening session. In between, she's happy with food and plain water.

At night, she wakes up at least 3 times for milk, I guess, to make up for day time. Sometimes, it's a wonder how we, mothers, survive with so little sleep.

With this new cycle of no-EBM-required-during-the-day, I became complacent and skipped pumping sessions altogether numerous times already. It's a big no-no for fully breastfeeding mothers, but I can't help being lazy. But with Ramadhan is just a month away, I know I have to be back on track on pumping, otherwise I may face the worst situation ever - milk dry up.

The little girl who devised a way to help Mummy continue nursing

Living On A Prayer

2011-06-24T00:40:00.000+08:00

The other day on the way back from lunch at De Chieng Mai (which I ate 2 1/2 plates of rice. Monster !), my mom asked me to stop at a nursery. I already expected it as the road heading in and out from that restaurants are lined with nothing else but trees.

She looked for one particular plant - pokok doa.

I had no idea so I was very curious, especially on how it got its name.

Do these trees looked like berdoa?

The price escalates as the trees get taller. Thus we didn't want to take chances. We are no green- fingers. We settled for one about my height and that alone cost almost 200 bulks !

Wow, supporting mother nature is not cheap.

Fathers, Sons and Daughters

2011-06-21T00:13:00.001+08:00

My brother texted me a day earlier reminding me about Father's Day and whether I have made any lunch plan. Truth was, I didn't even think about it !

So mean a daughter I am haha.

When it comes to Mother's Day, moms around the world are celebrated with fanfare, because women generally love to be treated like a queen. Nevertheless, dads' responsibilities are equally heavy (even greater if they are sole breadwinners) but often overlooked. Have you heard any song dedicated to fathers?

Okay I know a few numbers - Dance With My Father (by Luther Vandross), Father and Son (by Cat Stevens) and My Father's Eyes (by Eric Clapton). But I've never heard these songs played on Father's Day. So unfair, right?

It was a bit on the 11th hour but luckily we managed to get a quiet place to dine and chill with almost everyone of us, except my SIL and her newborn who are still in her hometown.

Since my dad is quite a carnivore, no better place for us to gather than a restaurant that sprawls pages of menu on merely meat dishes - MeatWorks at Solaris Mont Kiara.

I chose Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich which was very filling, especially after a bowl of wild mushroom soup. I just can't resist seeing cheese in the menu.

Move aside Australian and NZ cows, here they are proud to serve meat from our own backyards in Gemas, Negeri Sembilan. I didn't know we produce our own quality meat.

To all dads - Though you don't wake up at night when the baby cries (we know you pretend to be asleep), your other contributions to the family (often in the forms of $$$, moral support and advice), are just as significant.

Happy Father's Day !

Good School

2011-06-18T22:42:00.005+08:00

Call me crazy. I'm already thinking about Razin's primary school. He's not even 4 years old !!!

I guess looking for a good kindy makes more sense at this moment, but that is not my primary concern for his education. We only spend 2 years the most in kindy and around 5 years in uni (a few more years of torture if study medicine), but primary + secondary schools take 11 years of our life !

I didn't realize that until I came across an article in a newspaper's opinion column recently. The writer wrote on how we heard endless complains from employers about the quality of our local fresh graduates, especially on the English language proficiency, and guess what, universities got the blame !

Yeah, typical case where at the end of the day, someone needs to point fingers at somebody. Pity those professors. They are supposed to deliver knowledge on subject matters, not on grammar and punctuations.

But what we fail to understand, we need to change our education system, because that is where the bulk of our early years goes to. Man, I was one of the many parents who felt devastated when the government swapped Science and Maths back to our mother tongue.

I am the product of the 'stolen' generation. I know some of my peers are still struggling in distinguishing whether to use 'we are' or we is'. I feel deeply sorry for them, but in fact, I also feel handicapped (in English, not golf, pffft) especially when working with the older generation. I envy their vast vocabs and almost perfect grammar.

(Okay, I blame myself first. I admit I don't read many books of late).

The things I realize about schools have made me apprehensive about the school I'm going to send my kids to. I've heard comments like, "Belajar kat mana-mana pun sama" or "Kalau tak pandai tu, tak pandai jugak". Well, I don't quite agree with that.

As parents, we need to strive to provide the best we can to our children.

I can testify to that as my dad transferred us to a top school when I was in Standard 6. In the previous school, I didn't even know what the word 'compete' really means. I got 1st in class every year and that was without much effort. I was often called to represent the school (with my brother) in each and every talent competition, including drawing, though I can't even draw a tree (nice one, I mean) !

But the new school was completely a stark contrast as everyone was more active, outspoken and of course, more brilliant. Instead of being the only one who knew everything, I encountered 3 classes full of them . It was a whole different world of competition there.

On the other hand, that was also the same school where almost everyone strapped POP Swatch on their wrist and hummed to the latest tune in UK pop chart.

There are a few criteria I look in a school. I have already narrowed down to 2 schools but it hit me hard that these schools always give priorities to those who live in the vicinity.

We are not even in the neighborhood !

That fact alone had given me panic attack. So, painfully, I have to venture on other schools for options, you know, just in case they are adamant on address.

Last Saturday, I went to an Open Day of a school, which is located very near to my office. One plus point there !

We were brought around to see the the school facilities by these two prefects. Hah, by the time I saw a huge swimming pool, I felt giddy already ! What, salt-water pool? Is it better? Whatever. I'm already sold !

Computer lab with Macs? Our kids are so lucky.

The class is limited to 28 students only. What my other half like most is the presence of an Assistant Teacher in the class, in addition to the real Teacher. Two points there !

The school also includes music lessons (guitar, piano, percussion, etc), third language (Arabic, Mandarin, Spanish and soon French), swimming class, gymnastic/taekwando, KAFA and Quran recital class.

How many points? I've already lose count.

I'm selling a few of my limbs and a kidney for this.

No kidding :P

Movie Date

2011-06-16T22:48:00.005+08:00

Hah, finally another movie date with my other half after such a loooooog wait ! Our last visit to the cinema was last year and I can't even remember what movie we watched. Time flies so fast when we have so many things to do, right?

It's very difficult to get one particular date when both of us are free from meetings and deadlines. Well, I'm pretty sure every working parent face the same thing too. But I feel once in a while, we parents need the time-out. Family time is not just about the kids, it's also about time with your other half too, agree?

I truly enjoyed my liberty. We had late breakfast and took our time to finish our meals over talks. I got to spend quality time in my fav clothing stores, picking up and putting down each and every neon-coloured tops. We strolled in the mall rather than the usual running around chasing the kids.

It was bliss !

I didn't know why I took a photo here as we didn't watch this movie. I didn't follow the Pirate's thus hate to be clueless about the storylines. We went to GSC Signature for the first time and I was taken aback by the ticket price - triple the normal tickets ! But the service all the way was superior, which I guess is not made available at the normal cinemas. We were pleasantly greeted with smiles upon checking-in and even ushered by polite staff to our twin seats.

Indeed I paid for top-notch service, or rather hospitality, and privacy as the twin seats are located quite far apart from other twin seats. This is definitely not the right place to go with the whole family or a bunch of friends, unless you come in pair.

I heard the Gold Class even comes with pillow and blanket. Looks like you either gonna enjoy the comfort or be in deep sleep !

Perhaps, we should try it the next time.

Wedding

2011-06-14T23:39:00.002+08:00

How many weddings did you manage to attend last school holidays?

I felt bad I couldn't attend all 5 invitations. The ones that I turned down were all outside KL. Long distance travel is a bit hassle with small kids. School holidays just make it even worse with extra hours on the road due to heavy traffic on highways and most hotels room are fully occupied. The thought of spending one whole day in the car traveling back and forth does not spell F-U-N.

You know old folks always warn about not attending weddings that when it's your turn, no one gonna show up? I guess it's a way to scare young people who often take it easy when it comes to gatherings. I used to be one of them who often came up with excuses from hot weather to no nice baju kurung to wear. But as I get older, especially after went through my own wedding preps, I realized how much effort (and $$$) is put for just a few hours occasion.

Last weekend I joined my other family members to my SIL's younger sister's wedding. I love how we the guests were entertained with a number of videos and slide shows about the couple, also live band performance WHILE enjoying the food. I've been to a few weddings where these multimedia stuffs are presented BEFORE dinner, thus starving all the guests.

Pretty dais

This must be one of my fav door gifts ! I can eat the cupcakes on the way back and keep the ceramic bowl for my next dessert table projects. Edible and functional doorgift -truly a gift from the heart.

There will be another wedding in my family next year. Insya Allah. In fact, I hardly wait to get involved hehe.

Slides

2011-06-12T23:23:00.003+08:00

We often wish we had time and the motivation to exercise, right? I always find excuses not to exercise, by which my definition of it is to put on the sneakers and walk around the lake or at least a few kilometers on the treadmill.

I keep telling myself that I don't have much fat to burn (well, except the stubborn part around the tummy), hence the non-existence of exercise routines. Like everybody else, I'm plain LAZY.

But now I've found a good way to burn calories - join Razin at the indoor playground !

Initially, Razin was reluctant to try all those high, swirl slides and climb to the top. He was quite content playing on the lower level which is less challenging. My other half suggested I help Razin to break the ice, well, since I'm small enough to go through all the tunnels and such.

This place is meant for kids and though I'm petite, I still have to bend and twist to move around. Razin kept saying, "Be careful Mummy..." while following me climbing.

It took a few rounds for him to feel at ease and not long, he found a seven-year-old friend, and I immediately know my job is done.

I didn't expect to join Razin, so wearing a palazzo pants was very inappropriate. The whole time, I was worried the pants gonna stuck in the enclosed slide and I arrive on the ground bottom-less !

She was having a blast too on her first visit

Though she hates with socks on !

Two solid hours and with the amount of sweats, I must have shed a kilo or two. Seriously.

Lose weight and quality time with the kids? No better combo.

Of course, they dozed off right after. Err, including the Mummy actually :P

Picture Pefect

2011-06-07T11:44:00.004+08:00

Say hi to my new toy !

Will write about it soon.

Thre Last Polka

2011-05-31T00:24:00.001+08:00

The other day when my mom suggested ice-cream cake for the gathering, I totally objected. I don't know why I can't find joy eating both cake and ice-cream at the same time. Perhaps I was not born with a sweet tooth in the first place. I hate food with excessive sugar (except macarons) ! Thus I am very selective when it comes to dessert.

Another thing, I don't like combination of food, which in this case - cake and ice-cream. Just like banana fritters and ice cream, waffle and ice-cream and root beer drink with ice-cream (the drink you call float...erghhh).

Why everything has to be coupled with ice-cream? Why ice-creams can't be enjoyed by itself? And why oh why it has to be vanilla ice-cream most of the time?

Well, God creates everything for a reason, right? So when God created this fussy me, He also created someone who thinks out of the box and invents non-conventional flavoured ice-cream.

The Last Polka...home-made ice-cream with local flavours which include Nutella, Teh Tarik, Coconut Kaffir Lime and Salted Gula Melaka (tried this one last week and it tasted just like caramel)

One small cup of Horlick ice-cream shared by one picky mummy and two little vicious tummy.

Two cups and I'm already a fan. I'll try the Nutella sometime this week.

Birthday Party

2011-05-29T22:59:00.004+08:00

All my life, I lost count on how many events I organized, or heavily involved. From family, friends, school stuffs, office occassions, you name it, I was there running around like a headless chicken. I guess, I like to get things done than watch things being done, if you get what I mean.

I was so involved with my own wedding preps up to a point my dad asked me to take a back seat. I remembered I was all worried about the guests list, seating arrangement, timing and so forth that it hit me hard I won't be around hands-on with all the tasks on the actual day. Still, I thought I have time to check things out, making sure everything goes smoothly while doing my make-up.

I just wanted things to be perfect, or at least done according to my way. But over the years, I learnt about delegation (though I still found it tough to trust other people) and there is no perfect event, we just do our best.

So when we decided to sum mother's day gathering, housewarming and my daughter's birthday, I was the first one to jump in excitement. In fact, I have been waiting for a long time for the right occasion to try to emulate Amy Atlas's dessert table.

I know I drove them (my sister especially) nuts talking endlessly about creating a dessert table. I can be an annoying perfectionist, but I guess they know me well enough, thus explained the support I got. My sister sacrificed her beauty sleep the night before to prepare the goodies bags and such since the kids became cranky (12 midnight for God's sake) and we have to go back home.

There is no perfect event right? I forgot how lousy my camera is (with tiny fingerprints all over the lense) and didn't even engage anyone to take photos officially !

Now all I got are blurry photos to remind me of my hard work. Dang.

Rizqin was a tad bit clueless on the commotion and attention she received that day. I had hard time keeping her awake till the celebration because it coincided with her nap time, thus no suprise she fell asleep not long after that.

Happiness is still playing around this tempayan !

A House Is Indeed A Home

2011-05-24T22:09:00.004+08:00

The early part of my life, we lived in apartments. I remember the joy when my family moved to a landed property when I was 8 years old. We tried to find all reasons to go upstairs and run downstairs the next minute. I felt the house is too big with so much space unoccupied. You know, things that we kids imagined back then, ghost and such.

A few months after we moved, my dad put on the carpet grass at the lawn and built an underground sprinkler system himself (my dad and my brothers are handymen !). We loved to turn it on and lay down on the grass, waiting for the water to shower us.

But I don't know why when I all grown up, I gravitate towards living in a high-rise. It's not about privacy issue or what, but I guess, only living in apartments/condos I can have a house with a city view. Some people found tranquility in house with trees all around, I on the other hand like being surrounded with the sounds and sights of life - cars, people, etc.

Sometimes when I have so much to worry about (you know how women love to think about the world problems), the views from my balcony (and also a window from my room) are a constant reminder that I'm not alone in this world.

Nonetheless, sooner or later when my family members multiple, I certainly need a bigger house. And, my wish is to get a duplex !

Speaking about bigger house, my parents' house has done with all the renovation works. With 10 rooms, this house has become so huge that we have to scream to call each other for dinner.

Intercom is desperately needed !

The new gardener

She pissed off the gardener by throwing stones all over

She even threw stones inside the fish pond

Watering plants was not fun enough. Playing with fountain was way better !

My dad did indirectly ask whether we want to move here but this time around, it is really about privacy. But who knows, one day I might I care less about it.

Working On Holiday

2011-05-18T00:01:00.000+08:00

I'm not sure which I like more - public holiday that falls midweek, or the day before/after weekend.

Long holidays are nice if you have plans (shopping malls are not part of the plan. Duh, I sounded like Special Agent Oso !), but break in the middle of the week does make the whole week shorter, hence great too.

Felt bad that I couldn't take the kids somewhere today as I was occupied with work the whole day. I just handed my work to my mom just now, who stopped over en route to pick my dad at the airport. My dad has to verify it tonight and I have to standby around 3 am just in case there are changes, as documents have to be sent by lunch tomorrow. Arrrghhhhh.

I don't know how some moms can do office works from home because I found it to be very challenging, tending to office stuffs and kids simultaneously. They will come every few minutes to check out on me and when I ignore, then they will start to press buttons on the keyboard and all sorts of things to get me out from the chair. Both Razin and Rizqin don't take long nap during the day (lucky me if they do), but they rarely sleep at the same time. So if one sleeps, I still have another one messing around for attention. That's why doing office work at home takes longer time to complete.

Looking at the computer screen and cracking the brain can be very taxing. Today I asked my other half to put on a cork board near my so-called vanity table, so I can offload my mind while working by looking at my accessories (and start dreaming on what to wear with it !)

My beauty nook

I still have more to put, some bangles and earings. I hope I can cut time dressing up by putting my fav accessories on display. But I think I need one more board...

Mini Celebration

2011-05-17T00:36:00.000+08:00

I'm not so into celebrating my own birthday. Not that it reminds me of getting a year older, but I feel very vain in doing so. I am content just spending some time alone, digging my memory on the foolish things and embarrassing moments I've encountered the last 365 days, over a pop of my fav cupcake and iced tea.

Well, when you already hit big numbers in age, birth day is just another day.

What 31? Whatever :P

But 1st birthday, it is just something.

I thought to wait for end of this month for the big party, but my mom felt so pity for Rizqin that she asked everyone to gather for dinner to commemorate Rizqin's special day.

The birthday girl who loves to eat. That's why she was seated in between 2 tables, so she can grab food from both sides. It was her special day, no rules applied to food :)

See...she even has no interest to take photos when food is around !

With Mummy and Nenek

I am sucker for heart-shaped food and this pizza was so romantic ! It was in fact special edition pizza in conjunction with Mother's Day.

So what's my girl up to at 1 year old?

* She still can't walk unaided. She often pissed everyone off by asking someone to hold her hand to help her walk around. I guess, she just loves the attention !
* She's bored with porridge and cereal, thus eats adult food in small portion. Problem is, she got constipated easily.
* Still fully relies on Mommy's Milk. I just don't know how to wean her because my milk output just couldn't catch up with her needs. Tried a few brands of formula milk, she vomited immediately. When milk is just not enough for that day, she have to wait for me to come back home from work. Several times I reached home as soon as I can and found her asleep, tired and hungry.
* Her separation anxiety is getting stronger. I can't even leave her at the rear seat when driving to my mom's house in the morning and same thing when going back home. I have to bear listening to her crying and weeping the whole journey.

Rizqin is 1 y.o.

2011-05-11T00:15:00.002+08:00

Happy 1st Birthday, princess !

Will throw you a party when Atuk gets back from Manila.

The M day

2011-05-09T22:18:00.002+08:00

You know Mother's Day is around the corner when the radio keeps playing Mama by Boyz II Men all day long. I don't know about you peeps, that song somehow always makes my eyes gleamed with tears. Being a mom myself now, I can relate the power of unconditional mother's love.

Unlike the previous years when we often celebrated this special day with our grandmother, uncles, aunts and cousins, this year due to other commitments, we had the lunch within our family.

It was good to have everyone (my dad in Manila and my second brother with my SIL at her hometown though) sitting at a long table and exchanged stories. These are my brothers whom 20 years ago, I couldn't see eye-to-eye for more than 5 seconds without getting into a fight. Funny thing now, we seem can't get enough of each others' jokes. We didn't have the chance to quarrel with Halida though, as by the time she was born, most of us already grown out of that gaduh-gaduh phase. I think she missed the whole loads of fun !

Yeah, my mom had the time of her life back then with the 6 of us.

People say money can't buy happiness (crazy shopaholics say those who quoted that don't know where to shop, hah, I can't agree more hehe), in some ways it's true.

A kiss from my little boy enough to light up my day...

"...sayang Mummy...you're the best"

Tech Kids

2011-05-02T22:35:00.004+08:00

I haven't sent my laptop for repair just yet. (I leave to your creative imagination on how I'm typing this). I was told that the whole keyboard has to be replaced and it gonna cost me less than 100 bulks. Thank God !

I came back home during lunch hour, and Razin greeted me at the door with, "Mummy, dah pecah !" I was shocked to see what he did to my laptop.

But I didn't scold him terribly. He is just one curious boy who just loves to dismantle things. Give him a ballpen, and the next minute you will find the parts are all over the place. But I wonder if he has the knack to put it all back together.

How can I be mad to someone who is born with a technical mind?

The laptop is not the first one. My phone, which I just bought end of last year also suffered the same fate - the touch screen panel has gone haywire.

Last week, the Ipad couldn't turn on, I went berserk. Laptop, phone....now the new Ipad?

My other half advised me not to give my electronic items to the kids. But Razin and Ipad are inseparable now. Rizqin too loves my phone to watch videos.

I know it is difficult to retract something that they are so used to, so currently I'm educating them on how to use these (expensive) toys in proper manners. In so far, Razin rarely left the Ipad on the floor anymore. I hope his sister will learn by example.

Speaking of example, I'm very certain Rizqin is learning everything from Razin....

With all the scattered roses, are these two preparing a suprise party for Mother's Day? We shall wait and see :P

Bestfriends :)

Fan

2011-04-25T10:58:00.024+08:00

For friends in my facebook list, you surely had read about the accident involving Razin and a table fan. To feed his curiosity, he put not one, but 4 fingers inside a high-speed rotating fan !

I was at the Subang Airport when my mom called that they are on their way to SJMC ER and asked me to rush there too. I didn't get much info on what had happened. I guess, they don't want me to fall into panic mode, so the only words from them were jari, tangan and patah.

I rolled my eyes intead. I was very compose, perhaps I know Razin is in safe hands with my family member to the hospital. But quickly, I called my other half to come back home too.

I reached the hospital and saw Razin sat on my brother's lap. He has stopped crying and kept showing me his fingers. Physically, only one tiny cut was visible, but my mom insisted on x-ray just in case there are fractured bones.

He was in my brother's room when it all happened. My brother was busy playing with Rizqin and his newborn baby, but very aware that Razin was playing close to fan. He warned Razin numerously as Razin kept switching the speed from the lowest to highest. He shoved Razin away from the fan and the moment he turned back to Rizqin, he heard a loud vibrating sound from the rotating blades.

He saw Razin slowly pulling his fingers from the fan's cage. He didn't made a sound until he went downstairs. He jumped around, screaming in pain.

Knowing Razin is full of drama (also a good actor when it comes to seeking attention), my brother carried Razin to my other brother's room, where Razin often go to play shadows (focus the spotlight on a wall and make animal shapes using the fingers).

Apparently, that didn't calm him down. He still cried hysterically and that prompted them to bring him to ER for treatment.

The x-ray result came out I was relieved Razin didn't suffer any fractures. Just a minor cut which a plaster would suffice, but I requested the nurse to put a bandage on his finger just to let him know, it is serious.

These days, whenever he sees a fan, he will show his fingers and say, "ni sakit..."

Yeah, he learnt it the hard way.

Dino Alive

2011-04-18T22:09:00.005+08:00

Ever since we mentioned to bring Razin to see dinosaurs, he kept asking about it every single day. He will storm his feet on the bed and roar like one.

Moral of the story - do not give promises to kids.

Last Sunday, after done some wet market shopping, we headed to Pusat Sains Negara for Dino Alive tour. We almost turned back when we see the queue for cars to enter Bukit Kiara and started to blame our poor time management that day - we should skip market and go very early in the morning, not afternoon.

However, I didn't see any kids in the cars around us.

Then I saw a huge billboard with "Golf Tournament" on it. Hah, no wonder !

Traffic was clear right after the golf club and we were lucky enough to find a parking spot under the shade.

I kept talking to Razin about dinosaurs and Razin walked happily, smelled each flower in his way. Then a security guard waved to me from 200m away and asked aloud where I am heading to.

"Pusat Sains Negara !" Dang, as it was not obvious enough with the kids and all.

Then, he quickly pointed to the opposite direction. I turned to look and blushed.

Smart mummy, taking us round the world first :P

Entrance fee is only RM 10 per pax and free for kids below 4 years old.

As expected, Razin was terrified of the loud sounds and the gigantic dinosaurs !

She's a cool girl (or maybe because she just doesn't understand all this havoc yet).

He picked a dinosaur t-shirt to wear that day, but the closest he can be with one is at the poster.

We spent slight over an hour there. But I was quite disappointed for the lack of exhibits and the poor organisation/management/marketing. They should learn from Datuk Shahrum Yub when he headed Muzium Negara those days. I still remember the many visits I had there, including the much-hyped Khazanah Dari Kubur exhibition.

You need to think outside the box to attract people.

Speaking about creativity, I am currently typing with severe handicap.

Hope that explains of the absence of my post for the past 2 weeks.

Engineers are not made, they are born.

I have one, so far, following my footsteps.

11th Months

2011-04-11T21:55:00.004+08:00

Happy 11th month old sweetheart !

My Body Is A Wonderland

2011-03-30T22:47:00.004+08:00

My parents' house is currently under major renovation, thus it is almost impossible for my kids to stay there the whole day without suffocating with dust.

I have no choice but to leave them at home with my maid. I hate to do that, but seriously I have no other options. I just wish I can bring them to the office each day while waiting for the house to be completed.

Razin is so used to companions (my brothers and sister) and he looks kinda bored with this new routine. He ended up spent every waking hour during the day either in front of my laptop or Ipad (which he claimed as his !).

Since there was no meeting yesterday, I took Razin to the office. Before I get engrossed with works, I bought magic pens and water colour painting set to keep him occupied.

I had hard time explaining to him not to mix all the colours together. After some time I let him be, if that will make him entertained.

I did check him out once in awhile, just to make sure he only paints on the plastic frame or on the rough papers. My dad has hid all the marker pens because once, Razin extended his drawings from the white board to the wall. We had to ask the staff to paint it back.

Razin never stayed at the office the whole day. Not that he's not allowed to, or he refused to, but I'm the one who can't stand him running around. Though yesterday started smoothly with the painting activity, as expected, he got bored after a few hours.

He started to run aimlessly, pull my hand while talking to visitors, throw his shoes up in the air, take off his diaper and all sorts of annoying things just to get my attention. This was when I wish he stayed at home instead.

I called my sister to join us (my brothers and I) for lunch and asked her to take Razin back home. On the way back, my sister posted a photo on facebook...

This happened when she was driving and Razin sat on the back seat, happily drawing away !

This morning Razin woke up and said, "Mummy, nak pegi office lagi.....nak painting"

Beef It Up

2011-03-28T08:48:00.001+08:00

Last week, my brothers brought me to a meat shop (yup, you heard me right !) for lunch. My sister went there a few days earlier (which I couldn't make it that day) and has been raving about the juicy and tender steak - no gravy needed. I don't remember the last time I had meat, mainly because I hate to chew for so long. But since my dad said the meat was way better than Victoria Station (my dad goes there for steak almost every week), I had to take his words.

Located at Kelana Jaya

Steaks are sold per 100g and the minimum is 300g. Well, if you are cheapskate and plan to order the cheapest on the menu like my brother (who has been here 3 times), you might think twice when you gotta know which part of cow Rump is ! But we were told Rump has a distinctive taste and has its own fans.

Hungry = garang face

It is a meat shop so if you plan to cook rendang, you can get the best beef here

My brother didn't expect me to be a monster, so he suggested for the Beef Wrap - asparagus and cheddar cheese wrapped in thin slices of beef. OMG, I've never eaten any meat so tender that I finished everything in a jiffy. This is like a starter ! I think it would be more filling if baked potato and garden salad are served together.

They had rib eye steak and gigantic beef burger, and took forever to finish it haha

I was still hungry so I ordered (the smallest/lightest) lamb chops. This is my main course !

I'm gonna try the Angus or Wagyu beef on the next visit. If you have small appetite, try the beef wrap, seriously delicious !

Rizqin at 10 m.o

2011-03-26T01:48:00.005+08:00

Everyone is spoiled with food on a buffet breakfast and I have to eat mashed banana? No way, Mummy. Get me a croissant, please !

Mummy, when do you think I can walk without someone holding my hands?

Mummy, sorry for the mess !

She's turning into a very garang girl every day. Well, I think she has to be defensive otherwise Razin will keep taking her toys whenever she plays, will pull her legs whenever someone is carrying her and slaps her face out of nothing. Basically, Razin just enjoys making her cry.

She also realizes 'tears' can be use as a weapon and bait for someone to save her. Often she will cry with tears rolling down her cheek just because I went inside the bedroom to get something. The moment I picked her up, she flashed a cheeky smile. Clever girl !

She is still solely on Mommy's Milk. But I have to admit, it is getting very challenging to fit her demand. Though only 3.5 oz x 3 bottles (during the day), I just can't produce that much anymore. I drink by the gallons, take multivits and other milk booster supplements, pump frequently (including in the middle of the night), but still not enough.

With no frozen EBM, I know she will be fed with formula milk anytime now. I'm pushing myself until she hits 1 year old. Not long, only less than 2 months from now, which from there, we'll see how it goes.

For now, let me enjoy the extra $$$ (for not buying her formula milk).

Desa Paku

2011-03-22T02:09:00.005+08:00

I rarely writes about food here as you know, I'm very fussy. I love the combo of good food and nice place but that doesn't come easy. But if I like one particular place, I will come over and over again. Same with food, I will order it all the time until I can't take it anymore and eventually got sick of it.

So when people recommend great places to eat, I hardly take it seriously. Well, I was never a kaki makan in the first place, except when I was pregnant and now, looks like the gigantic appetite is still with me throughout breastfeeding.

There are a few people that their judgements I trust when it comes to food. One of them is my dad. Obviously, because he is picky too. But unlike me, my dad is crazy about food, and that left many people amaze on how he manages to stay slim.

Back to food, we always left with the same options of eateries for lunch. But 10 minutes away from my office, there is one restaurant that boasts delectable array of Malay lauk, prepared in small quantity (thus ensure the quality, I supposed) and most importantly, cozy enough for you to sit long and have a pleasant lunch.

Situated in Ara Damansara. I heard the owner is an aviation guy too (my dad's friend) and no suprise, you will bound to meet someone you know in the industry here.

This place is air-conditioned...that makes it comfortable in a hot, sunny day. Also the plus points, exceptionally clean and tidy.

You can opt to sit outdoor if you can brace the heat. Smokers can !

I noticed that they have different types of kerabu.

Local kuih, bubur and lai chi kang to complete your meal. Very thoughful !

Dishes are served in small bowls, just like in any Nasi Padang restaurants. Most of them are hot too, I love :)

This place has a soft spot maybe because it reminds my dad of his hometown. I'm not sure where the owner/cooks are from, but I suspect from the southern. Well, not from the picture, but from the food, of course.

This was my first time here (my colleagues have been here a couple of times) but I will definitely come again. Gotta be early though, as this place has gained popularity among the locals and I heard, often the dishes are gone by 1.30 pm.

Life

2011-03-21T00:30:00.002+08:00

Enjoying life !

Re-connections at Kota Kinabalu

2011-03-15T15:22:00.000+08:00

How do you sum up 12 years of stories in 2 hours?

Yup, that's all the time we had last week with my cousin, whom I have not met since 1998. He went back to the US when he was 8 years old (with his mom and his sisters) and never came back. Long story there...

It was supposed to be 2 solid days with him, but due to some problems with the local port authority, his ship (US Navy) can't moor on time. He rushed to our hotel just in time when we checked out from the hotel, ready to go to the airport, flying back to KL.

His dad, who never met him as long as we do, extended his stay to be with my cousin. But the tsunami in Japan required all of them (the US marines) to board the ship back to Okinawa the same day for humanitarian relief effort.

He still remembers a word or two of Malay Language, but I don't think he quite remembers all of us. Funny thing, he wanted to taste durians again !

Somehow, it made me feel so grateful that I have all my family members here. I can't even live sanely a day without my kids, just imagine 12 years !

Melancholia aside, I took the opportunity to explore Kota Kinabalu again.

I thought we have to go to Jesselton jetty for the speed boat ride to the islands, but the travel operator at our hotel arranged the boat from a private jetty in Tg Aru Resort, which is only 5 minutes drive from the hotel. The boat ride to 1 island costs RM 30 per person.

We chose Manukan Island (one of the islands in Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park). It took only 20 minutes on a speed boat.

Crystal clear water, you can see the colourful fishes ! This picture doesn't do justice on how beautiful and serene the view of the island. Aaah...need a new camera !

Not much can be done with 2 kids tagging along. So after enjoying the view for a few hours, we took a boat ride back to the shore.

We had dinner at Ocean Seafood Restaurant, just next to our hotel. The selection of sea creatures are amazing. Pick from the aquarium and inform the restaurant staff how you want it to be cooked. I didn't have the heart to pick and eat them later, so I leave that task to my dad hehe

Remember last year how I crave for chilli crabs? It's worth the wait :)

I will definitely come to BKI again.

Thirty1

2011-03-07T00:30:00.003+08:00

Since suprise party is not in our family dictionary (boring clan), I bought myself a slice of millie crepes to commemorate turning a year older.

I had a number of memorable bad experience when it comes to adventure with food. On the way to Jakarta a few years back, we stopped at a nasi padang restaurant in Bogor for lunch. Of course, my colleagues and I ordered the famous jus alpukat (avacado juice). Sipped till the last drop and even teased my mom for being plain since she chose orange juice.

Little that I know we gonna take a ride round the hills to the top of Puncak. It was misty and I, on the back of the MPV, terribly dizzy. Just when they stopped for durians (my dad insisted to taste local ones grrr), I made a dash to the nearest public toilet. Diarrhea, on the spot.

Should put a 'sorry' note there though. No flush. Yup, very common in Indonesia.

Gross haha.

Two years ago at a floating seafood restaurant in Kuala Terengganu, I ordered one of their specialty drinks. I was very certain I read watermelon and pineapple - my fav fruits, no big deal. My mom being cautions, chose orange juice, again.

But what I got was a literally fatal concoction of honey dew, water melon, bits of pineaple and chocolate syrup. I curled myself in pain to sleep till morning. That durian we had near the market after that dinner surely made it even worse. I kept quiet the whole journey back to KL the next day, worried a single word would trigger a bout of unwanted stomach activites.

Back to my millie crepes, it tasted horrible ! Who is the genius who deceives people with the intricate layers of thin crepes with cream in between? I took three bites and out it went inside the trash. Kek Lapis Sarawak tasted whole lot better.

Phew, at least something to remember hitting 31.

Anyone want to buy cakes for my future birthdays or any occasions that involve me, just buy the chocolate muffins at Kenny Rogers. I appreciate that more :)

Decided to try jumpsuit on the last day being 30 y.o. Had to suppress my thirst because it was troublesome to go to the toilets. Why I didn't think about it then? Dang.

Finally, I bought myself Vita Fede bangles (since everyone doesn't comprehend why it costs so much).
24k gold + lamb leather + Made In Italy + worn by Eva Longoria, duh.
Cheapskate people I have around me hehe.

Nahhh...materials are insignificant compared to love I received :)

I'm so blessed, Alhamdulillah.

Going Nude

2011-03-01T13:47:00.006+08:00

A picture speaks a thousand words.

Thus, it goes without saying, I need a nude-/beige-coloured shoes.

The Geox suede pump has received so much abuse from me, I'm scared it won't last that long. The thing about comfy shoes, you tend to wear them everywhere, even to Giant.

Saw this one at Rockport. Chock full of insole cushion, 3 1/2" heels - I like ! But the square toe box is major a turn-off.

Cole Haan didn't fail me in the past. This sling peep-toe is simply divine, agree?

No introduction needed. I wonder if it is comfy to be worn all day long. Okay, half day is good enough.

I'm not willing to pay for something that hurts.

Ants In The Pants

2011-02-27T23:38:00.005+08:00

This morning, before heading for grocery shopping, I asked my other half if I am overdressed. I wore bold-coloured, prints tops with tapered pants and matching purple bangle.

(Well, we were supposed to go to The Curve in the morning)

The Other Half : No ! They (the people at the supermarket) are the one who are under-dressed.

Me : You know, it's grocery shopping. People don't dress up for that.

The Other Half : That is wrong. We are supposed to dress up nicely every time. Isn't it a lovely sight to see everyone wears nicely to the market?

Me : Who wants to dress up buying fish?

The Other Half : You still gonna wash that clothes anyway !

Me : So I look okay?

The Other Half : You look fine !

He is my fashion advisor -free consultation each time. One of the reasons I marry him.

Because of his sartorial advice, I had to return the cream-coloured cropped pants I bought last Friday. I always want a light-coloured casual pants, so I can wear some bright tops (so you can see me from 500m away), but with child-bearing thighs, it is tricky to find the right fit.

During fitting, my mom said I look good in it.

In actual fact, I looked hideous. Primarily, too much flesh around the bottom - main problem with most women with kids. The pants, so sheer you don't have to make wild guess of the colour of my underwear that day, by any chance you still play that game.

Either my mom was being sincere that day, or she didn't want to wait much longer inside the shop or simply said something pleasing so I pay for her pants. Should bring Halida next time. I'm sure she will say NO at first glance.

The return policy says I can't get refund, but exchange. Well, good enough.

Still tried if I can pull a light-coloured trousers. Forget about it.

I chose a textured, dark grey trousers instead. Dark colours hide imperfections, so true.

Speaking of pants, I'm so much into tapered pants now. Roomy at the butts area (designed that way) and slightly cropped. It's the perfect choice for us mommies.

Bye bye skinny jeans. See you in 2015 :P

We ended our Sunday with quick dinner at Killeneys. I say 'quick' because we left the kids in the car while they were sleeping. My maid was in the car, of course.

Curry mee.

Laksa katong. Forgot to try it in Singapore when we were there last December. My mom said the one in Killeneys was nothing like the one she had in Katong, which I assumed the original one. Anyone knows any other place in KL?

Walk and Ice Cream

2011-02-23T00:02:00.006+08:00

Last weekend we took Razin and Rizqin to the park. Though we have a playground at our apartment, I thought it would be nice to walk around (sweat and shed some stubborn fats), watch the tortoises swimming in the lake and let Razin play on the swing with other kids.

It was not the first time we brought him here, but the last time when he was barely 1 year old. The slides didn't spark his interest, moreover with so many kids younger than him around. I know he socialise better with older kids and being a reflection of my own self, took longer time to acquaint himself with new environment.

Not to kill his already jolly good mood, we took a stroll around the lake instead.

On the way, we saw a couple of squirrels stealing some bread from the visitors and running back to the top of the tree. Of course, Razin was so excited !

I wanted to take snap some photos, but I'm terrified of animals (even cats) and had this imagination of those squirrels falling on Rizqin's stroller (and bite her nose) while I'm busy with the camera.

My brain is amazing when it comes to creative thinking ! So no photos with squirrels.

Thousands of calories burned, i supposed, thus my body deserved some treats. Drove to Section 13 for a cup of ice-cream. In fact, the yogurt was so damn good, I ate 2 cups ! Felt guilty later because it was pretty expensive.

Have you tried Death by Chocolate? I'm crazy over it. Even though I only eat Chocolate ice-cream, I am very selective. Too sweet. Too creamy. Too chocolate-y.

Me, too fussy. I know.

But Death by Chocolate is just perfect.

I'm thinking to make this a weekly event.

Walk and ice cream.

It's A Wrap

2011-02-20T22:06:00.007+08:00

I've been lusting over La Mer wrap watches ever since I came across it in late 2009.

What a genius idea to double a watch as a wrap bracelet. It's like buying 2 things for the price of one ! *women and justifications*

You should check out their website. Man, it's a pain to decide, especially for the first one.

Light blue. Navy Blue. Bright pink. Coral

Patent leather wrap. Matte leather.

Gold watch case. Silver watch case.

Python print. Leopard print. Snake print.

With chains. With charms

Okay, okay. Hope you get it - how tough it is to decide. *women*

Of all the hours I spent on their website, I chose white from the Bali stud collection ! Yeah, I'm so boring.

I loved it the instance I wrapped this watch on my skinny hand. It may look tricky to put it on, but I swear I can do it with my eyes closed hehe. Check out their facebook page if you are still clueless.

I always want a pink wrap watch (last year birthday wishlist), so when this magenta (snake-print some more !) watch popped up online, I simply can't resist. Bought this less than 2 months after the white. So tamak, I know.

I don't know about you, but I just can't stand looking at those colourful watches without justifying to buy another one. The watches are so reasonable I feel like buying all ! *women, again*

Really. Italian leather. Nickel-free (I have sensitive skin). So much for less.

I certainly won't stop at two. Their spring collections are too tempting not to have it. Damn, these guys really know their ways to my wallet...

Electric blue, that's my third.

p/s Slate and Burgundy are made from pig leather. The other colours from lamb and cow leather.

Keeping It Pink

2011-02-19T00:01:00.011+08:00

I think we are blessed born in the tropical part of the world.

No need to have 4 wardrobes of clothes for different seasons. Can't imagine how my small apartment gonna look like with coats and all sorts of boots all over the place. Even now, I have boxes of old clothes, which either don't suit me quite well anymore, or simply outdated (vests are over now !).

Have you heard the karma of being generous?

The more you give, the more you get back.

Funny thing, the more clothes I sent to welfare, (of course the more I buy), more clothes I piled again for donation. Some I even forgot about putting it up for charity that often left me digging for it, and later told by my maid that I've put it in the big 'paper bag' a few months back.

Dang !

No wonder I keep screaming, "I have nothing to wear !" every weekend. I am so generous !

You know when I will be searching back my old clothes?

End of the year.

When every store carries Fall/Winter collections, oh my, the dull colours ! Whoever makes the rule about wearing black and the shades of grey for this season must be punished - because I'm sartorially suffering during this time of the year.

You have no idea how much I anticipate for this season to be over. I want rainbows back in my wardrobe.

It's coming to March now and I know I won't be waiting that long anymore. Furthermore, did you know Honeysuckle (pink) is the colour of 2011?

Love is in the air.

ZARA Spring/Summer 2011 Lookbook

Ah, look who's been keeping up with the trend...

G is for Good Food

2011-02-15T01:48:00.006+08:00

We celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary last month and I didn't even make a special post on it.

Blame it on the workloads !

Initially, I thought about having a short beach getaway to PD or stay a night in KL overlooking the Twin Towers. But both of us were too busy for even planning for it.

Next time, we should be spontaneous, then I guess it would materialise.

Yeah that's the thing about being married a few years. The kids' birthdays are more important.

I think my sister heard my cry for a romantic dinner and treated us at Social KL, G Hotel. My mom was kind enough to babysit the kids and wished, "Have a good time !" to us. Looks like everyone thought we are in dire need of a break. So sweet of them.

Both of us were beyond excitement for our few hours of liberty. We arrived just on time for our reservation at 8.30 pm and ushered to the LG floor. This floor was a dimly-litted compared to the floor above, which makes a perfect spot for intimate dinner.

We were seated under an artificial tree, on a high long bench with bar-looked table. Then heard the band on the floor above sang Sinatra's I Left My Heart In San Francisco. So cool !

Kicked off our dinner with Korean-Style Beef Bulgogi.

It was 14 Feb...so everything came in heart shapes including the wild mushroom soup !

While waiting for our entrees, my other half talked about his dream of opening a restaurant. I've heard it many times and I just love listening to his ideas.

The Other Half : Nice right have something like this? I'm gonna play lots of rnb...

Me : Maybe you need to play some jazz too...dedicate a day for it. What about jazz weekends?

The Other Half : Yeah laaa.

Me : You need to play the old rnb too ! Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder...

The Other Half : Yikes, I'm not attracting old people here !

Me : You need to cater for all sorts of people....the old people are the rich ones !

Not adventurous that night so I had Baked Atlantic Cod Fish

Squid Ink Linguini with Tiger King Prawn.
Black spagetti...and super hot...lucky I didn't choose this one !

The Other Half : I still want to have bar, but instead of alcoholic drinks, I want to serve drinks from all over the world. Nice right...when we open the menu....Juice x, from Spain....Juice Y, from Mexico...

Me : That's why you have to play old rnb....because the old people can afford to pay your expensive drinks...

The Other Half : I also want to have a cigar section, even a dedicated person to roll it out. Pick your tobacco...Cuban? We roll it for you !

Me : Niceeeee !

By the time for dessert, I was already almost full. Not many options for desserts. I chose tiramisu as I thought it would come in a form of cake. Instead, a bowl of cream + mascapone cheese + coffee powder. The original stuff !

My other half ordered Vanilla creme brulee. Not my stuff either.

After 4-course meals, we can't talk much anymore. Need another romantic dinner to remind about his dream restaurant :P

So thoughtful of them to print out our photo and put it in the V-day card !

I don't wear black but this snake-print top is an exception. I'm crazy about exotic stuffs, from tops, shoes, watch to accessories - I have it all !

9 Months

2011-02-11T00:18:00.003+08:00

Mommy said I'm her sunshine....because I smile a lot

I've been trying to pull myself up since 7 months old and now I can do it effortlessly. Mommy always put pillows around me to catch me if I fall (which I often did). Being the only person in the house who can't walk is no fun. The next time you see me, trust me, I'll be walking like a big girl.

See my big bro's face? He always makes me cry but Mommy said he is a small kid just like me. So, forgiven.

The good thing about having a mom who loves to shop is I can shop too (and Mommy pays) !

I like hanging around whenever Mommy organizes her wardrobe. I get to play with the accessories.

Happy 9 m.o. Rizqin !

Holiday Is To Gather

2011-02-08T00:48:00.003+08:00

Enough shopping malls.

Long weekends is to gather and catch up on the latest family gossip.

We drove down south and upon arrival, we were greeted with the smell of mee bandung, bbq chicken (which I missed !), sup tulang (I love !) and home-cooked lunch which include my fav salted fish in chilli (yummmy).

When it comes to unpaid assistance, you can count on Razin. He willingly helped out for the bbq. I'm a proud mom :)

This girl doesn't need fancy things to please her. Throw some old toys, she's happy playing on her own :P

I wish to have this big a land for my home (if I ever buy a landed property, because I love living in high rise). We'd been coaxing my grandma to turn some portion into basketball court/swimming pool, but to no avail. With all the plants, she's on anti global warming campaign, I guess.

My grandma who turned 80 years old last January, celebrated her birthday with her grandsons and also great grandson (Razin). Three cakes in one party....so jimat :D

My brother forgot about his birthday that day. So we decided to have another dinner sometime this week. Thinking of G Hotel, KL...anyone has been there?

Wishing For Longer Holidays

2011-02-04T11:15:00.005+08:00

I don't think there are any other public holidays in Malaysia most celebrated than CNY.

By that I mean, the major roads are jam-free, parking lots at the malls are abundant (you can park in front of the entrance !) BUT.....many shops are closed !

When we arrived almost 1 pm, the digital parking indicator signboard showed 800 vacant parking space. You will never get this convenience on other public holidays, even normal weekends.

Razin had this table all for himself - for the first time

We were the only people at the toys section. Heaven. Ouh yeah, Rizqin was on protest !

Even a pair of new shoes didn't cheer her up.

Until we let her join the big kids league !

I miss the sizzling butter prawn

Being an adventurous person when it comes to food, my other half never fails to order something out-of-ordinary. Prawn donuts for today !

Of course, the good thing about closed shops, you gonna spent less !

Longer CNY holidays pleaseee...

Puzzled

2011-02-01T00:22:00.005+08:00

It's getting difficult to blog these days. Not only the time-constraint, but the laptop is now dominated by my little boy.

The first thing in the morning...laptop.

Before take shower...laptop.

After take shower...laptop.

While eating...laptop.

The last thing before sleep...laptop.

He loves the online games so much, I have to drag him off the chair. Most of the time, he'll be back glued to the screen the next minute, especially when he sees me turning off his game site.

"Raziiiiiiiin....don't watch too close !!!!!"

It's the same thing at my mom's but he spent lesser time online as the pc is upstairs (They hide their laptops from Razin !). Plus, I guess, there are much more interesting stuffs to do with my brothers and sister.

Addiction, or obsession is one thing. My primary concern is his eyesight. I've seen too many kids wearing glasses even before they enter primary schools. I know some cases are hereditary, but if it can be prevented, I'm all out for it.

Wearing glasses, or even contact lenses are no fun. I just can't imagine the many things he gonna miss with poor eyesight. Swimming. Sports. Pilot.

Urghhh.

But since he likes to play with the laptop so much, I'm also using it as a bait to make him eat. Just tell him we gonna take the laptop away, he'll be running for a spoonful of rice in no time.

It's always the good and bad of everything right?

In the mean time, I need to put a limit for his 'laptop time' and chuck it away.

Besides laptop, he's also crazy about jigsaw puzzles. I think he had enough of playing it online, he picked up the real thing at Toys R Us recently and has been carrying it almost everywhere.

At the office

At home

At KL Convention Centre

We bought him another jigsaw puzzle last week.

I'm pretty sure he can assemble those puzzles with eyes closed.

My American Twin Sister

2011-01-25T12:55:00.006+08:00

I was browsing the internet this morning, updating myself on the (fashion) world events, when I came across this photo of Miley....

Have you heard the saying, "Great minds think alike?"

Pffft.

Maybe should dye my hair blonde after this.

And...for heaven's sake, get THAT Vita Fede's bangle. Gosh, I had sleepless nights thinking about it (the bangle).

I don't know what Miley worn, but I definitely had everything on cheaper scale : peacock-print blouse from H&M and gold necklace from Diva.

The Magazine

2011-01-23T00:05:00.006+08:00

I wanted to write down about my milk supply issue after the last post, but everyone at home was under the weather since the education fair.

My house has turned into a little clinic

It was such a stressful fortnight for me. Right after the fair, consolidating all applications, we had to prepare for the assessment. We conducted it each time but still, it needs coordination to be professional. Being me, whom I supposed perform better under pressure and at the 11th hour, somehow felt relived after it was all over and done.

The following day, I could feel huge burden lifted. My milk came back as normal (where I can get minimum 3oz per session, yeah I know not much !). At that time, I've already on 4th day on Himalaya's Shatavari. I'm quite sure that supplement helps in getting my hormones balanced. So if you have the same issue, give it a try okay !

Then, everyone fell sick with cold, cough, fever. (I blame the durian season !)

I know it is very inconsiderate to walk in public places when you are not well. But stuck at home with cranky kids and a digital thermometer in my hand are making me crazy !

But when we arrived at Empire, almost everyone I passed, either sneezing or coughing. I even saw one little boy threw up !

I felt better knowing I am not the only one spreading the virus here, so instead of just 30 minutes of fresh air (out from the house), we even had lunch.

My other half was not too happy with the service of the restaurant. The home-made bread was hard and cold. His drink arrived after he finished eating (that was after he asked for it again !). So he thought the management should be aware of this drawback.

He wrote it pretty sarcastic on the feedback card, I rolled my eyes reading it

We didn't bring her stroller, so had to buy something for her (free) ride !

I am currently crazy over Magazine (from The Loaf) - croissants with Belgium chocolate filling. I always thought croissants are best eaten with Nutella, so someone surely had read my mind.

I just couldn't miss getting my hands on Lucky with Nicole Richie on the cover. I do think they superimposed her waist...too tiny for a human....shhhhhh

I am always gravitated towards bold-coloured shoes and this one is to-die-for.

.....and....exotic leather !

Don't think can buy any more shoes, I've made the doctors a couple hundreds richer this month.

Milk S.O.S

2011-01-12T00:58:00.007+08:00

It has been more than 2 weeks now.

I am struggling to keep up with my girl's daily milk consumption.

She only drinks 3.5 oz x 3 bottles during my working hours, but lately I hardly produced that much when I pumped in the office.

Instead of getting 3 oz easily per session, 2 oz is now a challenge.

I could sense it's all hormones (from the break-outs).

Oh my, how come I didn't see it coming :(

My freezer stash was nothing to boast about, but I was proud to keep about 20 packs at one time. Now, all left is 4 packs, waiting to be defrost anytime :(

I'm not thinking of quitting. At least not until I've tried all means possible. It's just too emotional to let go, especially when seeing her looking for milk at night, even with eyes closed.

I'm giving it a try today, hoping to see positive result very soon.

Maybe I need a double pump? But I love my avent manual. In the mean time, I have no choice but to increase my pumping sessions up to 6 times a day..

Maybe I need some quality rest. I think I've been working so hard these past few weeks, even stood up the whole 2 days at education fair despite fever and painful sore throats.

Yeah, maybe rest is all I need after all.

When I Grow Up, I Want To Be...

2011-01-11T00:15:00.006+08:00

High school students these days are just lucky. Local universities/colleges are mushrooming with courses I wish I heard of before I set my mind to study engineering back in 1999.

With myriads of courses now, I am sure making the right decision for tertiary education is tough. Well, less options is somewhat good then :p

After declining to become a doctor (I think I'm just not born for it), engineering is the next best thing. After 4 years, I am no longer curious on how a microprocessor works.

When my sister finished her SPM, my dad persuaded her to take up medicine (after failing with me) in New Zealand. My sister smirked at the suggestion. Then my dad came up with another kinda bright idea - dentistry That was after my sister showed her interests to study Fashion Marketing.

Of course, my dad, a technical person, was all out against it. My sister has never been seen with needles and threads - my dad sole reason. As much as I want her to pursue what she wants, I am quite sceptical of the prospects. In Malaysia, the fashion industry revolves among certain people and is all about technical-know-who. We don't know anyone.

Finally, she decided to take up Psychology. Well, even that sparked a debate, but then it was much better than Fashion :P

Last week she told me she was in limbo again. She has a few months left to decide and now more inclined towards business studies.

Dang !

I told her that she doesn't has to go to Melbourne to undergo that common course. No offence, but seriously, don't you agree?

Anyway, I'm gonna do everything to ensure she sticks to Psychology.

Speaking of which, we participated at The Star Education Fair last weekend.

I didn't expect to be swamped till at one point, we even ran out of flyers !

Again, we don't train pilots. We train aircraft engineers !

Rocking harem pants again, this time paired it with Zara blazer.

My moral support

I ended up with sore throat and to make things worse, the whole family is currently down with fever. I blame it on the weather. (Doctors do make so much money around this time hehe)

If you want info on this program, do drop me an email...I will mail you the flyer :)

Almost 3

2011-01-04T00:12:00.004+08:00

Razin will turn 3 years old next month. I'm not sure whether to throw a birthday party for him or not. Perhaps, a small cake will do, right? :P

My baby is growing to be a young boy - I think he just grows too fast ! He is now become quite independent with his own wants, needs and preference. One fussy little boy, just like his Mummy :P

Candies and chocolates shy crankiness away (but Mummy's wallet bleed).

I'm happy that he is billigual, with English vocabs mainly from Mickey Mouse Club House.

"Mummy, where it goes?"

"Nenek, what's inside the baldi?"

"Hello, Nenek. I want one more. Okay, thank you. Bye bye"

You can go broke with this boy when it comes to shopping. Another notable trait inherited from Mummy :D

Rare moments of genuine affection towards his sister :)

Upsize Me

2011-01-02T22:49:00.003+08:00

I was hoping to continue the no-rice-for-dinner diet because I love feeling lighter. Being thin since small, having lots of extra flesh is somehow weird and not natural to me.

However, despite being over the moon with 1000g slimmer, I noticed my milk supply dropped drastically. My freezer stash is now declared as a state of emergency.

The last thing in my mind is not to breastfeed my baby. I'm all fine if she weans naturally, whenever that is, but I never consider to stop nursing before she is ready.

With that, no more yo-yo dieting, at least until she's off Mommy's Milk, naturally. I, on the other hand is on race against time to build up my frozen EBM and at the same time will find ways and means to keep my supply on track.

To make matter a bit tough, she now drinks 0.5 oz more each time. Yeah, doesn't sound much, but for a breasfeeding mom, every single drops count. To get extra ounce is not that easy !

I hate to introduce her with formula milk when she is very comfortable with Mommy's Milk for almost 8 months already.

Looks like I'm back to the old no-diet menu - rice for morning, lunch and dinner.

Just in case I balloon, this photo will be a reminder of what happiness is to fit UK 8.

I walked the last few hours of 2010, back to 45 kg, in drape jacket by River Island, tank top by Matthew Williamson for H&M, harem pants by Dorothy Perkins, black suede pump from Geox and bag from Longchamp.

Bye 2010

2010-12-31T23:59:00.000+08:00

How relieved I am when Friday is declared a public holiday. Kudos Malaysian team (though I don't dig football) !

I am always busy like a bee whenever comes to the end of year. This year is no exception, especially when we just advertised our program in major newspapers and received overwhelming response. I was like a call centre with the phone glued to my ears. Just when the calls stop coming for a few minutes, I had to entertain walk-ins. I really had to find time to do my work, in between meetings and all that.

I even forgot to buy refills for my organizer. With smartphones that sync with your lappy and whatsnot, I still rely heavily on a physical planner. Call me old fashion !

Then I realised how dilapidated my organizer is. I couldn't believe I have been using this one for more than 4 years !

Got the cheap version of Filofax (Alligator) on 31 Dec 2010

Year 2010 is dearly remembered for :

1) Rizqin was born on 11 May.
2) New car in Nov.
3) Babyface, Lionel Richie and Air Supply (arrived late and only watched them performed 3 songs - all thanks to my sister !) concerts.
4) Universal Studio family trip.

I know it sounds lame and bimbo-ish, but I miss buying handbags ! I didn't buy any in 2010, so that is a valid excuse right?

Women and justifications :)

Buckled Up

2010-12-29T23:10:00.004+08:00

Rizqin is slowly accepting her new car seat. She did make a fuss each time we put her in but this time, I am adamant in making sure she's all buckled up behind the wheels. To calm her down, I have to bring different toys to keep her occupied.

I was very disappointed with myself for giving in with Razin when he was smaller. As a result, he is resistant to car seats, but after sweet talks from us, he rarely declines to put seat belts on.

I bought Chicco Proxima, which is a convertible car seat, can be used from birth till 3 years old. It looks comfortable with paddings all over, unlike my Peg Perego car seat (the new model is better though). I also noticed this car seat is slightly less bulky than Britax, the one I bought for Razin. At least with this one, Rizqin has a better 180 degree view.

My investment towards child safety :)

Christmas Weekend

2010-12-27T02:16:00.006+08:00

We were supposed to have lunch together last weekend to post-celebrate my sister's birthday, but being my brothers and sister (read : a bunch of always-late people), the plan was canceled. Furthermore, by the time I arrived around 11 am at The Gardens, there was already a bee line to enter carpark. Just imagine if they arrive a few hours later.

Looks like I'm not the only one who spend Christmas at the shopping malls.

I didn't know she already can sit, with support that is !

Sizzling butter tiger prawns at Flying Chilis - the best butter prawns I've tasted so far, hands down !

There was huge crowd almost every corner, so shopping was a pain. So we left early after purchasing Rizqin's new car seat.

What A Difference 1 kg Makes

2010-12-25T01:57:00.007+08:00

I ended my no-rice-for-dinner challenge yesterday. It was supposed to be a 14-day challenge but I was starving after I got back from work last night (only had heavy breakfast at 11 am and forgot to have lunch due to workloads).

I got mixed response about my weight. Many noticed my weight gain (even my wedding photographer whom I engaged again recently for an event) and expressed it verbally in a subtle way, of course. The fact that I gained due to pregnancy does not register in anyone's mind.

Somehow I didn't really feel pressured by it, but this photo was the actual motivation to shed those fats away.

Nov 2010

OMG. What have I done to myself?

My weight stucked at 45 kg for a few months and I didn't do anything about it.

Except to indulge in food like there's no tomorrow. *Sigh*

Chicken olio, garlic bread, wild mushroom soup and mango yogurt drink - all for myself.

My mom has been on strict no-rice-for-dinner diet for as long as I remember. I hate to weigh more than my mom. She has 6 kids, I only have 2 (for now). I don't want to compete in the next Biggest Loser Asia :(

It was not easy the first day. I am so used to rice for dinner, anything less is considered snacks. My other half too needs the motivation (and lose weight too) thus having a companion makes things less stressful. In fact he is one of the culprits to my eating habit.

Yogurt drink/milk shake with nasi lemak? Yummy. *Sigh*

In 5 days alone, I lost 1 kg !

I knew if I make through the end, I would eventually lose another kilo. 43 kg is just nice.

I was so thrilled today (Friday), I decided to wear something casual, instead of baju kurung.

Guess what?

I chanced upon my colleague's wife, "Wahhh...you look so slim....like no kids !"

My mom and sister too said I looked slimmer.

Wow, 1 kg does make a difference on me.

Thank you skinny belt :P

Something I remember from my gym days, "Motivation is what gets you started, habit is what keeps you going".

Rizqin at 7 Months Old

2010-12-21T23:33:00.004+08:00

I didn't realise how chubby she is until I saw this photo.

Suprisingly, she only gained 200 g when we visited the paed last month. I was expecting the usual 1 kg/month gain. But the paed informed me it's common for babies to lose some weight/gain less weight starting 6 months old.

I've started her with solids and tried as much not to skip her meals. Morning will be 1 piece of Farley's biscuit, lunch will be rice cereal and evening (around 8pm) 1/3 of Heinz bottled food.

She is still on exclusive Mommy's Milk. But I just don't know how to increase her milk intake. She's on 3 oz/per bottle every 3 hours interval since birth. But whenever I'm around, she clings on me almost every hour !

Obviously, with her, no persuasion needed when it comes to food

She's been trying hard to crawl and is seen with this position many times a day. She is yet to figure out how to move both hands and legs at the same time, hence prefers to drag herself to move around. But she can move so fast and often, it looks like a baby alligator. Babies are just simply adorable !

My mom said she's maybe one of the babies that move straight to walking phase, sans crawling and sitting. I thought so since she's more interested to stand up.

Looks like she's following his Uncle Hairi.

The Office

2010-12-20T23:43:00.007+08:00

Two weeks ago we had our annual company event. This year two of my colleagues received the Long Service Awards. They have worked for the company for 10 years ! And, I don't think they ever thought of leaving.

I wondered what to buy them as presents. My mom suggested briefcases and I thought that is a brilliant idea. Seriously, when it comes to men and gifts, there are limited options. Tell me what else besides watches, pens, cuff links, wallets, belts?

Besides, both are in the 50s, so they probably don't favor Ipad as much as I do...

Speaking of service, the next in line will be ME !

But I don't think it's fair for me to receive the award. First, both the directors (my dad and my mom) work way longer than me, obviously. In all fairness, they should receive the award too right? Secondly, receiving an award from mom and dad? So not cool. It will become a family affair instead of employees celebration.

Nonetheless, my brothers did tease me on buying a Chanel bag for myself (since I'm the one who's responsible to buy presents) !

Well, looks like that won't happen. Sigh.

My mom and Halida sometimes come on Saturday to see me at the office (as if we don't see each other at home often enough). We always ended up talking things other than work. There goes my productivity.

Double chin is also not cool :(

Beware of what you do in the office. This little boss watches you like a hawk from cctv !

Back From The Land Of Far Far Away

2010-12-16T22:07:00.006+08:00

The only thing bad about holidays is getting back the rhythm.

Going back to work the next day is a dread.

Urghhhhh.

All parts of the body started playing games, the muscles ached at every move and the eyelids were just too heavy to lift.

Crispy cotton sateen sheets. Big rain shower. Hearty breakfast at nearby McDonald cafe with family. Underground shopping at Orchard Road.

Today I got back with tonnes of emails to reply, calls to return, meetings to attend and tasks to be done.

How I wish Shrek can kidnap me to the Land of Far Far Away, again....

I was quite anxious about Universal Studio, Singapore (USS). I've been to Disneyland HK and Paris, theme parks require lots of land. Singapore obviously has the least of it.

I went to Sentosa Island with my mom and Halida 3 years ago for the first time (my dad just refused to bring us there all these while) and ouh my, it was no bigger than Sunway Lagoon ! With all the hypes and advertisements, I didn't expect it to be that small and errrr....boring.

But how could Universal Studio theme park be less interesting right?

If you plan to go to USS, buy your ticket online, in advance. I don't think you can purchase the tickets there and then. Entry fees vary, we bought on peak season (school holidays, weekday) which is SGD 66 per person. Free entry for kids below 3 y.o.

First thing when going to a theme park, get the Guide Book at the entrance.

When we arrived around 10.30 am, there was already big crowd at every ride. But later after lunch, the crowd subsided (to the casino I supposed haha) and waiting time was cut from 1 hour to only 5 minutes !

I didn't go for the Jurassic Park water ride as the waiting time was 80 minutes.

But here's a trick - queue at the single rider lane. Unless you don't mind riding (screaming) alone, single rider lane saves lots of time. But when it comes to scary rides, I need a companion. I just need to call out someone's name, in my case, it's Halida's :P

Speaking of which, I would recommend Revenge of the Mummy's rollercoaster. Both Halida and I were fooled as we didn't see any queue at the entrance. We went inside the pyramid and walked quite far in the dimly-lit tunnel. Along the way we passed quite a number of people who decided this ride is too much to handle. We encountered countless signage warns about this high speed rollercoaster, basically, not for the faint-hearted. In fact, both of us almost turned back.

But we proceed. I always love rollercoasters !

Don't bother to dress up with jackets/blazers here as you will end up sweating profusely in our tropical weather. We were lucky it was drizzling in the morning thus made the whole day slightly cooler.

One whole day is enough to cover USS. Don't fret, halal food is available. Just bring extra money as you'll go loony over the soevenirs. Or maybe it's just me :)

The whole 3 days we stayed at Royal Plaza On Scotts. I chose this hotel mainly it is located right at Orchard Road (isn't it nice to be surrounded with shopping malls) and the F&B is halal certified. The service was superb, right from the concierge to the sales director (who was kind enough to deliver a box of macarons to my rooms).

Oh yeah, if you are crazy about macarons, stay at this hotel. Myriad flavours are available at the hotel restaurant, Carousel, Carnele (just a few steps away) and at Bakerzin, Ion Orchard (opposite this hotel).

Christmas AT OU

2010-12-10T00:26:00.002+08:00

The best Christmas deco I've ever seen !

What could be better than shopping by the river? :p

The only spot sans the crowd

Razin can't wait for Santa so he took a present himself

Razin and his signature pose

If he wears red that day, I don't think I can spot him hihi

Speaking of Christmas, I've heard so much Orchard Road deco. Can't wait to see what's in store in Spore this weekend !

Another Way To Spend

2010-12-02T11:43:00.003+08:00

It seems heavy discount is just not enough to lure me into buying more things (that I want but may not need, isk), now virtual private sales are the new way to deplete the balance in my account.

Here are a few sites that I join :

Already put the purple watch in the cart but then I remembered I just ordered a white one from shopbop and it's on its way via UPS. See how women react to 50% discount?

Kate Spade bags, if only they are not made from pig leather, I would have grab the yellow one.

La Senza is sufficient for me hehe

Singapore-based private sale, where you can save a few hundreds from retail price.

Selected sale sites above require invitation/recommendation, so if you wanna join, drop me an email as I'll be more than happy to have you in my club :)

Picture Perfect

2010-12-01T15:59:00.005+08:00

Coming to the end of the year, I realised there are plenty of items mysteriously appeared in my To-Buy List. I've been keeping this list to minimal and delaying buying anything that doesn't fall between life/death situations (slight exaggeration there).

I wanna grow older and wiser. By that, not falling into every single marketing tactics these luxury brands (I'm talking about bags here) bombard us, women. Please remind me of my own statement when I'm in the newly open Mulberry at The Gardens.

Seriously, I have not purchased anything relatively extravagant for more than a year (I am very proud to announce that), but out of the blue, I have this cringe to buy so many things. Well, I guess that's the thing if you don't treat yourself something nice for so long, you tend to go berserk once you pass the self-limit threshold. All your hard work telling your eyes to stop browsing Bloomingdales goes to the drain. Sigh.

Anyway, we girls always able to come out with reasons to justify right? Mine would be helping global economic recovery. Shopping sounds better that way :p

Sony Nex-5

My answer to compact camera with DSLR quality picture.

I'm thinking to wait till Jan 2011. Perhaps I can save a couple hundreds due to price drop. *Grow-older-and-wiser mode on*

Peace Is...

2010-11-29T00:57:00.003+08:00

When both are sleeping !

It has been a tiring fortnight since my maid went back to her hometown for a short break. Being maid-less, I planned to set up a routine where I will get ready before they are awake, but Razin and Rizqin are very unpredictable when it comes to waking up in the morning.

Definitely never later than 8 am, but many days, they were alive and kicking by 6.30 am ! Instead of routines, I ended up went with the flow, thus everyday was a unique experience.

The days where I was lucky to be up much earlier than them, I managed to do laundry, folding up and ironing clothes. Otherwise, I will be wide awake till 3 am doing house chores.

Fav dinner for the past 14 days

Normally I will carry Rizqin and hold Razin's hand from home to the car and vice versa while my maid carries all our stuffs. Alone, I relied on the stroller to transport Rizqin and asked Razin to walk closely. Being boys, he just couldn't help running ahead of me, especially to jump on puddles of water (if it was raining the night before). There I was, with a handbag and a diaper bag on both shoulders, pushing a stroller and screaming at the top of my lung for my little boy, who found a tad of liberty.

My mom's house is just 8 minutes away and most of the time, Rizqin behaved well in the rear car seat. On good days, I able to coax Razin to seat in the front seat with seat belt on. But when he sat at the back and started to sing happily "lalalalalala", I knew he is up on something. One day I turned my back and saw him brushing the seat with the bottle brush - relieved. I never trust him with Rizqin, thus I am always suspicious when both of them are close to each other.

My SIL came to my mom's everyday to help babysit them. She admitted Razin is the one more difficult to handle. Rizqin on the other hand, easily pleased by just carrying her around.

Frankly, even with piles of clothes to fold, I seem to enjoy living just the 4 of us. Doing every single thing for your family is gratifying, But the thing I like most (being maidless) is the freedom, where I can walk around at the comfort of my own pad, barely dressed.

Halal Grilled Beef

2010-11-22T01:01:00.003+08:00

When it comes to daging salai (grilled beef), the only thing flashes to my mind is this one chinese shop, if not mistaken located at Mid Valley and OU. It is non-halal obviously, but I always curious about it. Well, since there are always bee lines at the outlets.

One day, my other half showed me a packet of marinated grilled chicken and my first question, "Is it halal?"

"Yup, by Jakim !"

After assured by my other half, I tasted the thin slice of chicken and suprisingly, I love it.

From there on, I was hooked.

This has become my fav snack, which I can eat it on its own or sandwich it with bread for light dinner (need to lose weight after all, erk).

Head to Mid Valley (LG floor, tunnel to The Gardens) to kill your curiosity :)

Four Photos and Sixty Five Words

2010-11-21T00:50:00.004+08:00

I'm experiencing writer's block.

Hope some photos are sufficient till the next entry.

Whenever he came across ice-cream parlor, "Mummy....nak ice-cream please....please !"

Can't get enough of their sagu gula melaka, so Sri Melaka is a compulsory pit stop almost every weekend.

Rizqin without her side curls. We trimmed it as she will scratch her ears all the time.

Razin and trolleys are inseparable

Back From Timbuktu

2010-11-12T10:00:00.001+08:00

I couldn't believe I succumb to peer pressure ! Yeah, it still exists even after school days. My whole family has been begging me to get a new phone because I'm always uncontactable. Reason - I often put my phone on silent mode or vibrate to conserve energy. My phone can't go beyond a few minutes call without turning off automatically. Then again, stranded at the roadside with a flat tyre and a dead phone, is not funny.

I did write earlier on my deliberation - iphone or blackberry.

Later I wondered, why I limit myself to these 2 brands?

I'm never a trend follower, let alone on gadgets.

Finally, I settled for SE Vivaz Pro with specs I love most - 5 MP camera (same with BB Torch and Iphone4), HD 720p video recording (bid farewell to camcorder) and slide-on QWERTY keyboard (I'm clumsy at touch-screen when texting).

I almost fell off the chair when the SA offered RM 35 to trade-in this phone ! Are you kidding me? I thought it has no value at all haha. For being a loyal and reliable companion for the last 4 years, I declined that noble offer and choose to keep it.

So now, hello civilization.

Radio Gaga

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

I was invited to attend a radio marketing seminar a few days ago at the newly opened Double Tree by Hilton, KL. When the seminar ended (just half an hour anyway !), the Account Manager asked whether we want to try record our own radio advertisment?

This is the closest to being a DJ (I had the thought to start an online dj-less rnb station a few years back), so why not?

Luckily the scripts already ready-made, thus less headache to think of a spontaneous idea. While waiting for my turn, I read the script over and over again. Oh my, this is not easy as I thought, or perhaps I just took it very seriously !

Told myself to chill !

While waiting for our recordings to be edited profesionally, we took photo with Honeymadu

After editing and sound effects, I did pretty, errrr.....well for an amateur.

Anyone wanna hire me now?

She's Half A Year Old !

2010-11-10T22:42:00.007+08:00

Photo captured by his big brother Razin while Mommy busy in front of the mirror, putting make-up :p

* Able to drag her body in any directions

* Roll over effortlessly, but only to her left side

* Has started taking rice cereal

* Only words for now, "Amma", "Abba"

* Still wake up a few times for night feeding

* Loves to lick and bite everything

* Always woke up from sleep crying if didn't see me next to her

* Sleeps next to me every night

Walking On Air

2010-11-07T23:03:00.004+08:00

I feel bad letting my own blog not updated for so long. It has been several times now, with no new entry more than a week, and I even contemplating whether should I continue writing, especially with facebook. But then I thought, there are nothing gonna cherish me many years from now than reading my kids milestones and what matters most in certain time of my life.

I have to admit, writing takes time and with 2 kids demanding my attention, I have not much left in a day. Normally, I waited for them to sleep around 9 pm, then only I can have my me-time. Luckily I have a reliable maid than takes care of the house chores, otherwise I don't think I can sleep at all.

Speaking of which, my maid will be going back to her hometown (in Indonesia, that is) for a solid 2 weeks, before returning for another 2 years. I pity my mom the most as she will be taking care of Razin and Rizqin during the day without any help ! Seriously, I don't think I can handle it myself. I foresee McDonald Delivery/Dominos/Nando's Delivery/Pizza Hut will be on my mom's speed dials !

Razin is still very clingy and cannot be left alone with his sister. I've seen he stepped on Rizqin's hand several times and even pressed her tummy hard. That little girl is being bullied by her big brother on daily basis. She also had difficulty to sleep during the day as Razin always woke her up. Nevertheless, I could sense Rizqin still looks highly on Razin as a companion, despite all the torture she has to put through. She will laugh whenever Razin jumps on the bed, so I don't know if I should be mad at Razin or not. Hmmm.

Rizqin will turn 6 months old in a few days time. She looks ready to accept solid thus I will try rice cereal tomorrow.

Thrilled to bits in her walker

Hopefully she is not a picky eater like Razin (and yours truly !)

Under Cover

2010-10-27T13:32:00.001+08:00

With more public places equipped with baby rooms, I never thought I ever need a nursing cover until last week. Razin was washed out, walking at The Gardens and Mid Valley sans stroller, thus we made a pit stop at Dome Cafe, Mid Valley for drinks and ice-cream.

I always feed Rizqin in the car, making sure she's all comfortable, or at least not starving, before we go anywhere. Almost 3 months on exclusive Mommy's Milk, I noticed she needs to be fed in 2 hours interval whenever I'm close to her.

Razin fell asleep while having brownie while Rizqin started to show discomfort. From her gestures and sound, I knew right away she's hungry. It is quite far to walk to The Garden's baby room (my fav at Isetan) and I left with no option than to feed her here.

I know some people, or perhaps majority (me included) are not at ease with the idea of nursing in public. Women's breasts are often portrayed as sexual objects, rather than natural source of baby food, thus any exposure is as obscene as mild pornography.

I hate to disrespect and cause discomfort to other patrons, but my baby was begging for milk. There was no secluded spots. I unbuttoned my shirt and tried to be as discreet as possible. I stood a magazine to cover up.

I asked my other half, who appeared nonchalant seeing me baring (part of) my breast, "People can see me (breastfeed) or not?"

"Yeah..can..", he replied.

That moment, I wish I had a nursing cover in hand.

Speaking of which, I decided to get one very soon.

I love Bebe Au Lait nursing cover simply because of the designs. They have so many fashionable patterns, I have a hard time picking one.

They claim, "Don't buy a nursing cover until you've checked out Moboolez breastfeeding hat !" I kinda like this idea but does it really cover?

Do you know some states in US have laws supporting/banning nursing in public?

My Booties

2010-10-25T00:40:00.002+08:00

Say hi to my new booties !

My Easy Spirit shoes? As confirmed by Nine West (the same distributor for Easy Spirit in Msia), all the shoes here are pig-skin free !

So if you intend to buy online from US (because they are way cheaper), do check on the leather used, not only for shoes, but also on other leather products, watches included.

Ever since my discovery, I got to know most shoes in US use pig skin and I'm very sure everywhere else in the world too, except in Muslim countries.

Anyway, I still hope to get my hands on a pair of grey suede booties. Do tell me if you see one :)

Ain't Easy

2010-10-19T14:07:00.007+08:00

I feel good today.

It all started the day I tried to log in to my Hotmail account and subsequently asked to change my password. Despite the festive jolly mood of Aidilfitri, I still thought it is quite strange. I've been using Hotmail since 1999 and never once I was requested to change the password.

The account was still accessible after the password-change, but was blocked a week later as the new password was not recognized by the login system.

Of course, I was in rage. At that time, I was in denial I fell prey to phishing site.

I contacted Window Live Help to assist me in getting my account back. Despite the wealth of information I provided to prove my identity, the first rep turned a blind eye towards my online request. There is no live chat, only private forum which I doubt Microsoft has enough staff to cater for each and every problem. I had no idea how helpless I can be in a virtual world until I came to this point.

In the mean time, I changed everything I can remember to Gmail. I know some people don't bat an eyelid if they are in my spot. It's merely an email address after all. But to me, it's my identity.
The second rep heard my plight and succesfully verified my identity. I was overjoyed, I never thought someone gonna take it seriously as I am.

Ever since that incident, I became extra cautious on every single website I land, especially when it comes to login and payment.

Speaking about online, do you still remember the conspicuos grey booties I eyed on?

Two weeks ago, I was a happy camper when the exact shoes (the one from Easy Spirit) went on sale. Having had 4 pairs from this brand that offers ultimate comfort to the feet, I am not hesitant to buy it online without trying it on. With the substantial saving from the grey booties, I thought of getting another shoes to replace my red loafers.

I was close to payment when it struck me on the leather used. I emailed to enquire and they comfirmed the use of pig skin is common in their shoes but could not identify which one that is not.

I was taken aback, sad and mad at the same time.

After hard-pressed them to identify with the factory, they confirmed all shoes contain pig skin !

All left was my pink Grendha slippars, which is made from plastic :(

For so many years suffering from stylish yet uncomfortable footwear (which often comes cheap), I had enough the moment I got to know Easy Spirit. Furthermore, this brand carries half size and 5.5 fits me like a glove.

I know I had to find alternative brands with equal comfort - Cole Haan, Ecco, Florsheim, Geox, Naturalizer, Rockport came to my mind.

When I went to Florsheim, OU last weekend, the first thing I asked was the leather. The SA (looked more like the shop owner) confirmed all shoes use calf leather. She affirmed all their shoes are specially made for Muslim market sans pig skin and cautioned me on buying Florsheim (or any other shoes brands) online.

True enough. The same day I received a reply from Aerosoles saying all their shoes are made from pig skin.

What happened to all my Easy Spirit shoes?

Guess what I bought at Florsheim, OU?

I reveal in the next post :D