Thursday, August 30, 2007

New Gardener

FINALLY!!!
I managed to hire a new gardener. He is going to start this Saturday, 1st September. His work days will be Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 am to 12 pm. No lah..my garden is not big. He'll also be mopping the terrace floors, the garage and cleaning whatever that needs to be cleaned (external of the house only). Hopefully, this guy will be better than the last one. And I would have a nice garden soon. At the moment, the bamboo by the pool is really "all over the place". The grass is also kinda long. Some plants dying and my rosemary also like gonna go too.

TutorVista

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Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Vomit Blood!

Since I've been on the topic of S2...might as well continue with this naughty fella. Lately, he has been really really getting on my nerves. Kept on doing the opposite of what I tell him to. Ask him to stop, he will purposely do it. Always waiting for me to SCREAM at him!!!

Eat rice also one kind. The chair will be "senget" (crooked) to one side, or balancing on two legs resulting in a LOUD Bang as the chair falls to the floor. And eating all over the place. As it is, I got him a rattan chair to sit so that he would not WIPE his filthy hands on my beige dining chair.

Put him to bed, kiss him goodnight...5 minutes later, will run to my room and announce that he needs to "pang-sai" (sh!t) , or that his butt is itchy, or there is itchy, or that he needs to drink water. Just last night, put him to bed, and then it was "pang sai" lah, and then after that he wants to drink water. Spilled water all over the floor. *GRRRRRRR*

Tell him to do homework. He'll be feeling sick or feeling tired or headache. Again, told him to complete his Mandarin homework yesterday so that he could go to his friend's house for playdate today. He told me DONE already. I wanted to check his work, and he quickly answered "Wait. Wait. I forgotten. I haven't done it". You see lah! This fella is terrible. When we were in Malaysia, he even HID his homework under my car seat so that he don't have to do his homework!!! Mana boleh???

And now, he is in Year 3.. no more brown bags (in the infant school, I used to order and pre-pay Brown Bags for his lunch) so now he'll either have to bring lunch from or PURCHASE lunch at the cafeteria. Gave him about USD 2 yesterday, and he came back...told me he lost USD 1. How? He said "I run run run"... *sigh*


My Head Pain!!!

When S2 was little, he used to have bad headaches. He would scream and cry "my head pain!". Of course, I was really worried that it would be something worse than a normal headache. I took him to our paediatrician over at SJMC, and requested that S2 undergo some tests and scans. However, our paediatrician advised against it, as he felt there was no severity in his symptoms. I came home and scoured the internet for topics on "headaches" and "headache treatment". Read and read, and the info did concur with our paediatrician's diagnosis that S2's headache was nothing more than a regular headache. Yes. Kids do get headaches too!

Dining

Know what would be good in a house?

Two dining areas! A formal and an informal one.

See these two beautiful sets from Powell furniture?

This set would be for informal meals.
Breakfast.
Snacks.
Chats over a cuppa.





And this set would be for proper meals.
Primarily for dinner, ... as it's the meal that we eat together as a family.


"A family that eats together, stays together"

Worst WebPage!

Did you see the comment left by asdfd in my Cbox?

Apparently, my webpage is the worst that he/she has ever seen!!

What do I have to say to asdfd?
  1. Mou yan kiu lei lei touk
  2. Bo lang kio der lai thak
  3. Mei yo ren chio ni lai tu
  4. Mai mi khon riak khun ma arn
  5. Tidak ada orang suruh kamu mari baca
What else? Mmm....

Gives me a topic for my filler post!! kekeekekek....

Christmas Pressies...

When I was a little girl, I absolutely LOVE Christmas time. The wonderful Christmas feeling, the tinsel-decorated tree, yummy roast turkey and chestnut stuffing, Christmas crackers and last but not least, presents for me!!!

These days...the thought of Christmas not only brings the above to mind.....but costs as well. Why? Expenses during the holiday season add up bit-by-bit and can be astronomical. How can we spend and still be prudent? By using online coupons that offer discounts on our purchases.

For the boys, will get them some Playstation things using EToys.com coupons. For H, it'll be books and DVDs from Amazon. There's still presents for my parents, in-laws, siblings, friends... GOSH....It sure is a long list!

Mahjong Lesson...

Now that kids are in school, the mommies are all back to their NORMAL routine, i.e. coffee mornings, brunches, lunches, spa visits, golf lessons, scrapbooking, beading classes and what nots.

So...had our regular Tuesday brunch (I made "ngau-lamm", i.e. braised brisket), and after that, our host offered to teach mahjong to those that don't know how to play. I belong to this category. Have to say that it requires both skill and luck. And also concentration. If you are dreaming, your tile may be gone before you can say "poong". ME? Forever dreaming one..... But since we were all rookies, we didn't play money lah...

Blog Directory

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I have been blogging for almost a year, and I have to say that I am somewhat addicted!! Okay. Maybe not excessively but it has become a routine thing that I do. When I first started blogging, my hubby was rather nonchalant about the whole thing, but once he saw that I was really into it, and earning some money writing sponsored reviews, he was all for it. Even got me a new notebook so that I could blog better! :-)

Initially, blogging helped in providing updates of our life here to my family, friends and relatives. Soon, I was making new friends on the net. It was great! In addition, I have been getting parenting tips, recipes and other useful information. 120

I am so into blogging that I am contemplating in listing my blog on a blog directory. Heard from the grapevine that the new Alive Blog Directory offers a comprehensive selection of blog categories, deep link submission options, and much more. What do you think?

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

Would you steal your friend's Maid???

Would you?

I feel it's quite a terrible thing to do!!! Although my maid is not perfect, I would be very upset if my friend tries to do that! Who wouldn't???

This topic came about because a friend, whom I shall call A, attempted to LURE friend B's maid by offering to pay the maid about 50% extra. A also told the maid to quit, and only go to her house after two weeks, and not to tell B. Think the maid did contemplated to leave B's household, but decided against it, and told her ma'am.

Is this what a friend would do??

Positive Thinking!

Back in Malaysia, I used to attend a Yoga class every Saturday. The yoga instructor was very different from the others, as he would always end the class with an inspiring quote. Many times, he successfully lifted my spirits and I would leave the class with a more positive outlook on life. Now, living in a different country, I no longer can attend his classes. Nor listen to the inspirational quotes. Although many of these quotes are "common sense" and we all know the merits; somehow we have "forgotten" about them in our busy 21st century lives. I believe we need a little reminder now and then. Karl Moore, a best-selling author and entrepreneur, has been kind enough to post inspirational messages on his blog daily . It can serve as our little reminder. His recent posting entitled "Life Attitude Toward Us" is a good one, as it reminds us that having a positive attitude can create positive experiences. Do read more at Karl's blog. You will definitely agree with his words.
<---------This is Karl! *wink* *wink*

Monday, August 27, 2007

Banoffi Pie...

Made Banoffi Pie last Saturday (yeah...abit back-dated). Got the recipe for this easy-to-make pie from Judy. It's a tad too sweet for us so think next time must reduce the amount of the condense milk :-). Looks okay lah... I know it don't look too good. My sons say "give mom a 6 for looks, 8 for smell and 10 for the taste!" ...H said "taste is good. But the presentation not good enough to bring to office lah..". Anyway, the dark brown stuff is not "sai" okay??? :-P It's chocolate shavings!!!

The State of Arizona

Did you know that recent census figures indicate that Arizona is the fastest growing state in the United States of America? This population growth is primarily from migration from other US states. Are you keen to be one of the many new "Arizonans"? To seek forth in Arizona's "Five C's" economy? If YES. You probably are looking for quality Arizona real estate to set up your new home. Do seek out expert assistance from Sonoran Properties!

All the Boys are Off ....

YUP!.. Boys off to school starting today... S1 in Year 6 (he says they are the "king" of Primary School wor... next year will be Secondary School. So fast like that!!) and S2 in Year 3.

Even my BIG boy, i.e. H also gone off today. At the moment, still en-route to London Heathrow. If he can worm his way out, then he'll be back by end of this week...otherwise, he'll have to fly to Dallas from LHR and then back...completing one circle round the globe. Heard him talking to his boss, negotiating his way out from the Dallas trip.... donno the outcome yet..

H not around, I have the car all to myself lah....So, took kids to school this morning.. Waaaa ..traffic was horrendous. Left the house at about 7 am, and only reached the school at 8.15 am. Sent them to their respective classes, then had a cup of coffee whilst chatting with some other moms (the school had set up tents for coffee morning for the parents to meet and chat etc), and then went to my friend's house for morning coffee... Then we both went to do our nails at the Nail Bar, had lunch at Penang Bistro... Only got home at about 3. 15 pm. In time to greet the boys' school bus. :-) Then at 4.00 pm..left the house again. Drop boys at their Mandarin class, and I went to the gym... Came back home also 6.30 pm...

Tomorrow.. also another Coffee Morning/Brunch at a Malaysian lady's house.. Pot Luck lah.. so will make a braised beef stew (chinese style lah) ... Maybe want to go colour my hair if got time.. :-)

Saturday, August 25, 2007

Maine, USA

Maine, ....the northernmost state of continental USA. It is well known for it's beautiful scenery of jagged coastline, seaport towns, rolling mountains and flowing rivers. Their world famous MAINE LOBSTER is absolutely divine when freshly cooked and served with melted butter!!! For a true and unique experience, stay in rustic Maine bed and breakfast inns that are located off the beaten track. You'll absolutely love it!

School Starts This Monday!!

FINALLY!!!
I can get the boys out of my hair for at least half a day !!
This morning, while helping both boys organize their stationery for school, I was continuosly nagging at them. These boys ALWAYS seem to misplace their pens, pencils, erasers etc etc. *sigh* Think I have to start purchasing custom pens that has their full name and class imprinted! That way, the missing items will eventually be returned!

More Stuff...

Went out grocery shopping this morning.....But bought these too...

Huge Flat Pan
To make what?
Roti Canai, Popiah Skin, Large Crepes, Fry 4 Eggs at One time, etc etc..
(It was 50% Off lah....)

Two Sizzling Plates
To Make Sizzling Steak for Dinner tonight!!

Friday, August 24, 2007

Life in the Sun....

Do you dream of retiring in the warmth of the sun?
The tropics seem too far away?
How about a great Mediterranean island that basks year round in the sun?
Where?

CYPRUS, of course!

It's a modern country rich with ancient history, fragrant citrus groves, wonderful beaches, friendly people and much much more.

Tempted? Check out on the cyprus property available. Whether you are looking for a villa, an apartment or a grand mansion, there is a dream home for you!


Reading Material...

This will be what I will be reading for the next few days. Actually, I already know who died or didn't die, and the ending, BUT I still wanna read it. After all, I did read all the other 6 books. So, of course must read the last, right?

I didn't Q to buy the discounted version of this book, and neither do I want to pay the real retail price. So, I wait until I could borrow from someone.

And since I took S1's friend T for ice-skating today, he has graciously lent me his book (according to his dad, I must be someone SPECIAL, as he is very particular about his books, and would NOT lend any of his books to anyone.....hehehehe...perhaps it's all the junk food that I've fed him today. He had KFC, 2x Pepsi, McDonald's ice-cream and 3 donuts!!!)

Will post a video of the boys skating later...

Orlando, Florida

That is our ultimate holiday destination for the kids!

Where else would you find 52 theme parks?? There's Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens and the list just goes on and on.....Boys will have a ball with all the adrenalin-pumping roller coasters. Especially S1. He just gets so charged up!!

Plus, Kennedy Space Center is less than an hour's drive away. The last time I was in Orlando, H and I witnessed the launch of a space shuttle. It was awesome! I would love to plan our vacation such that the boys can witness a shuttle launch. It would be a unique experience for them. Don't you think?

As flying to Orlando would be quite expensive, we'll have to hunt for Cheap Disney World Vacation Packages that would include our accommodation, car rental, park entry tickets.

"Yau Mou Kau Chor"!!!!

This H and the boss arr... "kau woo loong" (blur blur?!?!?) and went to wish CONDOLENCES to a colleague. Don't know where these silly guys got the news that the colleague's father passed away.

WRONG INFO!!!!!

The colleague had to inform them "errr...actually my father is still alive".

ALAMAK!!!....duh....

G'Day, Mate!!

Australia has long been a favorite holiday destination for my family and I. Though we have been to Australia countless times, we still find new and exciting things to do Down Under.

One of the things that I want to do in Sydney is to climb up the Harbour Bridge. The last time I was in Sydney, I had S1 toddling about with me! As the minimum age for the climb is 10; this time, S1 can actually accompany me for the climb. :-) We'll scale over ladders, catwalks and arches all the way up to the summit. It would be a real exhilarating experience! Which Hotels in Sydney will we be booking? This time, I would like to stay at The Rocks.

And....we are going to Melbourne for a Wedding! Whose wedding? My youngest sister's wedding! My little baby sister is getting married!!! ....And since it will be a whole BIG gang of us, we'll have to find suitable Hotels in Melbourne that would accommodate the whole clan that would be flying in from the UK, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia!

And we might hop over to Brisbane. Though I've flew into Brisbane a couple of times, I've yet to really explore Brisbane. We had always driven straight down south to the Gold Coast. It would be nice to stay a day or two to explore Brisbane. Know any great Hotels in Brisbane?


The Sad Thing...

..........about being an expat is that your friends start to leave when you are just getting to know them better.

It's the same for the kids as well as for the adults. As it is, almost a third of S2's classmates left...
- 1 girl went back to Australia in Dec '06
- 1 girl moved to Dubai, also in Dec '06
- 1 girl moved to Hong Kong in March '07
- 1 boy moved back to Canada in July '07
- 1 boy moved to Miami in July '07
- 1 boy moved to the American School in Aug '07

And just today, I heard that another girl will leave in Dec '07 to go back to Malaysia, and another boy might leave to go back to Singapore at the same time.

As for me... most of the kids' moms are also my friends...and it is quite depressing to continually "lose" friends. Even friends outside the school realm are also leaving.... found out a friend is leaving for Surabaya, and another for Australia, and another for Malaysia in Dec '07.

That's GLOBALIZATION for you!!!

And us? H said that the most he'll stay here is another year..... so, that means we'll be leaving in one year's time. Where to? I don't know..... it'll be up to wherever the job takes H. And we'll try to retain H's expat package...for boys' education sake. It will be rather difficult for them to revert back to the Malaysian education system. Go to international school in Malaysia? No Way! As we absolutely cannot afford the school fees ourselves!

Anyway, we'll see in one year's time...

One day at a time, right?

With globalization, really don't know what would happen one....

Thursday, August 23, 2007

My Birthday is Coming!

Okay...NOT this month. But it is in September. Time to crack your heads to decide what to buy for me. Or maybe I should help you out a little bit...

You know how I just love to EAT and spend my time at the SPA, right? How about sending me gift baskets? This Bath and Snack Basket has all the necessary ingredients for a luxury home-spa treatment. I could soak myself in the bubble bath while savoring the rich, scrumptious chocolate truffles.... Mmmm...Pure indulgence.

And maybe this Ice-Cream Toppings gift basket, as well? Okay. Okay. I am rather greedy. But it does have all they yummy gourmet toppings that's hard to come by! Please....Pretty Please... Get these gift baskets for me, okay??

Badminton Sessions...

We were LATE for Badminton today. H barged into the room while I was still ZZZZZ and asked "Boys have badminton today?"

... " Yeah", I replied groggily.

"Well. It's already 8.15 . Hurry Up and get your butt up then!"... RUSH RUSH RUSH. I did!

We managed to get out of the door at 8.30 am, and jam all the way to H's office to drop him off, and then to the Badminton Courts. We arrived at about 9.15 am. Not too bad...only 15 minutes late. The coach was already there...

Wanted to post a video on YouTube. But there's some sort of a maintenance going on. So can't upload.

See my S2.... doing nonsense while the coach is coaching the older brother. He was sitting under the net, poking the shuttlecocks into the net, and all sorts... This fella cannot do things long one.

At least here, both boys are diligently playing the game!

So far, they've had four coaching sessions with this coach. He (the coach) says he USED to be the assistant coach to the National team wor.... but of course I can't verify it as I don't really understand him. Boys DEFINITELY cannot understand him! HAHAHA.

How does he train them? Using hand and feet actions lor.. S1, who has played longer somehow CANNOT or DO NOT want to change his style of playing. But S2, who is just starting is QUITE GOOD in following his instructions.

Since school starting next week, don't know when the next session would be... we'll see lah.

Ville de Paris

Musée du Louvre, was featured in the start of Dan Brown's "Da Vinci Code". When I saw the movie, it brought back memories of my visit to the Louvre many many years ago. It also instilled a great desire to visit Paris again.

The last time I visited Paris, I was a student with a tight budget. I stayed in one of the budget Paris Hotels located near the Basilica of the Sacré Cœur. Although the room was not great, the view of the basilica was fantastic.

This time, when I travel to Paris, I would want to stay in ze best
H
ôtels en Paris! Okay. That was an exaggeration. But I do want to stay in a nicer and more exclusive hotel. One with a view towards the Eiffel Tower, or maybe the Champs-Elysées. Ahhh... That would be nice, wouldn't it?

Paris does have a lot to offer to visitors of all ages, interests, tastes and walks of life. Otherwise, it wouldn't be the most popular destination in the world, would it? Correspondingly, Hotels in Paris caters to all segments of visitors.

Cannot Go Out...

In my previous post, I said CANNOT GO OUT cause once go out, sure will spend money one....

Even GOING OUT for a meal is dangerous!! We went out for Dim Sum lunch the other day...It was to be straightforward family brunch at Crystal Jade. ... Unfortunately, Crystal Jade is located in a shopping center, and to get there, I had to pass NEXT and PRINCIPLES and what nots, which are ALL HAVING SALES!!!! What happened? Alamak! Bought this wrinkle-style top from Principles..... So cheap wor.... only USD 7.80!

Garage

{Sponsored Post}

Our lease of our current rented home is coming to an end at the end of August. H asked if I wanted to move to a new home. As I am quite happy here, I said NO. The only problem is that the concrete on the garage floor has some stubborn stains, and its roof has signs of leaks. I wonder if I can get the landlord to install garage floor tiles, as well as to repair the roof when we are negotiating for the new lease contract.

Wolverine!

Check out the real Wolverine's Claws.....

VS.

My son's version!!!!


HAHHAHA..

p/s Was laughing... so camera shaking lah...YES. That's McDonald's french fries!!

Shi Huang-Ti

Watched a very interesting program on Shi Huang-Ti the other day. Who is Shi Huang-Ti? He was the first emperor of China and founder of the Qin dynasty. And it was he, who was buried in his mausoleum together with the famous life-sized terracotta army of six thousand men and horses at Xian.
The entire site measures some three miles across! Although the terracotta army was first discovered in the 70's, Chinese archaeologist are still conducting studies to verify ancient records on the description of the marvels of the emperor's main tomb, which is still unopened to this day. I was hoping the program was going to depict the "opening of the tomb", which was not to be.

Nevertheless, the terracotta army would still be a great attraction. I do intend to bring the boys to China to soak up some Chinese culture! But as traveling with kids is sometimes quite stressful, I would have to find kids-friendly Xian hotels that would at least have a swimming pool and a games room to keep them entertained. I'm sure that would not be too difficult, as these days, there are many good quality cheap asia hotels available that would cater to all my family's vacation requirements such as at:

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

War while I am Gone??

.........between S1 and S2, that is.

Was out tonight, and when I came back at 11 pm. Boys were still up and I was told that there was a glue fight while I was gone. Apparently, S2 put glue on S1, and in retaliation, S1 poured glue on S2's head and he had to have his hair washed again. *sigh* Boys!! Quickly shooed them to bed and then washed up. H just checked on them, and S1 is already asleep, but S2 is still awake. So H asked S2 "Why are you soooo naughty ar?". Know what is my naughty little fella's answer?

" I was BORN Naughty!" ...came the reply! See how cheeky he is!!

Anyway, went out to be a cheerleader today for H. Heee Heee... He is taking part in a pool league and they have tournaments against other bars every Wednesday nights. This is the first time that I've gone to cheer him on...and think will be my last. Think my presence made him a bit under pressure...as he lost both of his games. :-( So...better just let him CHILL OUT with his pals after a hard day's work! :-)

Had dinner at their homeground, a bar and restaurant called Aphrodite. Yup! The Greek Goddess.... I had pork schnitzel, which I have to say was quite GOOD!! Did I say Pork? Yes. I did. Contrary to popular belief. Pork dishes are quite easy to find here.....

Better go to bed now... Boys have badminton coaching tomorrow..so have to be up early!
NITE NITE

Our Ocean Park Outing...

Took the boys to the LOCAL Ocean Park today. Reached there about 11.15 am and stayed till about 3.00 pm. As it is a SCHOOL DAY for the local kids as well as students at the American Schools, we had the place ALL TO OURSELVES..... See the photos... the place is so empty, right?

The place just opened NOT long, so the trees are all still BABIES....not providing any shade at all. So it was kinda hot. Luckily there was a little bit of breeze...

But anyways...BOYS had a whole LOT of FUN, of course! There were some friends who were there with us. And then the boys found quite a number of their school mates in the park too.



Tuesday, August 21, 2007

My Dell Laptop

As I am using my new Apple MacBook now, my two boys are now using my old Dell laptop for playing games as well as for their school projects. Although the laptop is only a year old, with the current rapid changes in software development, I reckoned that in no time, the Dell Memory would need to be upgraded in addition to other hardware.

South Beach...

What comes to your mind when you hear the word MIAMI?

For me...., various things pops into my mind. The popular TV show "Miami Vice" starring Don Johnson. Supermodel-looking bikini-clad girls frolicking in the sun, sea and sand. Art Deco Buildings on Ocean Drive. Al-fresco Cafes..... All these somehow refers to South Beach, which incidently has become one of the prime Miami real estate locations.


Monday, August 20, 2007

Two Moons on 27 August! - YUP! HOAX!

UPDATED: Yup! It's a HOAX! Went to search on some astronomy sites and there's a whole string of explanation on why it's a hoax. So.. I won't go into details.

Not sure how true this is...but got it from a friend today.... But the problem is that we don't know the time indicated is for which time zone!!!

Two moons on 27 August
Planet Mars will be the brightest in the night sky starting August. It will look as large as the full moon to the naked eye. This will cultivate on Aug. 27 when Mars comes within 34.65M miles of earth. Be sure to watch the sky on Aug. 27 12:30 am . It will look like the earth has 2 moons. The next time Mars may come this close is in 2287.

Factory Construction

When I was working NOT too long ago, I did travel to this country to evaluate the conditions to build a factory for my then employer. I had to do site visits, interview potential building contractors and our local partners. One of the issue that came up was whether the factory would comprise of steel buildings or brick and mortar. Each type of construction material would have their own merits. However, before we had the final decision, the partnership between my then employer and the local partners faltered. It was quite a disappointment as I was looking forward to managing this project here.

Professional Service???

Don't you hate it when people who are supposed to provide professional service turn up at your door without all the necessary tools? And then they'll ask to borrow this and that?????? Kacau saja.

We just signed up for ASTRO service for our bedroom. Actually, not just. Signed up last Wednesday. The technicians only came today. When he couldn't find the cable outlet, he asked me "how". How I know how? I want it in the bedroom. He has to figure out how, right? Then, he stepped all over the ceiling and S1 was screaming "My ceiling is cracking! My ceiling is cracking!". Ask them to just paint over the cracks...he said he couldn't understand me. Don't know real or not. Then ask to borrow telephone to call their office. Shouldn't they have their own phones to communicate with their office? Then ask to borrow ladder. Shouldn't they bring everything that they need to complete their jobs without disturbing the customer???

And some time back, I engaged a professional garden center, and they came and ask me for cangkul and ladder and all sorts. What the heck? That time, I had my own gardener...and I was mega p!ssed off. If I had the tall ladder to reach the top of Jack's beanstalk, I would have asked my gardener to cut the bamboo rather than paying extra for professional service, right?? I was ngam-ngam-chamm like no tomorrow lah.

Anyway, think I should calm down lah.. No good for my health... Can go watch Wah Lai Toi now.... hahahha

Sunday, August 19, 2007

Dinner...

Yesterday (Saturday), we had some "important" guests over for dinner ... "Important" because they were H's customers. We had two families over....4 adults, 2 young adults and 3 kids. Had to set up a separate table for the 5 kids (3 + my 2 monsters). Actually, I didn't have any spare tables, so went out to buy a foldable one in the morning. I was quite pleased that it didn't cost a bomb. Only USD 18/-.

Menu
French Onion Soup
Roast Leg of Lamb
Roast Potatoes
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Blanched Carrots and Green Beans
Spinach Au Gratin
Vanilla Ice-Cream

Kids' Menu
Fried Chicken and Chips
Raspberry Jelly

At first, wanted to make Banoffi Pie for dessert. But one of the customer's wife said she'll make Chilled Cheesecake, so I didn't make any dessert. Unfortunately, the cheesecake didn't set. Luckily, I had a new tub of vanilla ice-cream in the freezer, plus chocolate fudge and caramel topping in the fridge... So had that for dessert instead.

Sorry..NO photos..as I was so busy.. Had to go buy the table in the morning, then to the supermarket, then in the kitchen preparing all the foodstuff. Then off to buy a flower arrangement and wine, shower, check on food, entertain guests, make and serve drinks, serve the kids etc etc... H was like "ask the maid to do. Come and entertain the guests". Aiyo... the maid not superwoman what.. how can she be serving drinks when she is frying the chicken?

Anyway, think the dinner was quite a success... So I took opportunity to whine abit at bedtime...with the "I don't feel appreciated blah blah blah"... H was then trying to cajole me lah...and then? He fell asleep PULAK... Bleah!

Big Boys' Game

Saturday nights are the big boys' POKER night. The big boys would have the customary family dinner, dispatch their wives and kids home, and hurry on to one of the player's house. As most of the players do not own any poker tables, the dining tables usually becomes a makeshift game table, much to the chagrin of their wives! Why? Because the big boys would be drinking cold beer (urgh! water stain on the table...) and smoking (ashes everywhere....why can't they aim??)!!!

Friday, August 17, 2007

"RAT" Show..

Took boys to watch the "RAT" show today.....Okay! Okay! Ratatouille... Somehow, "RAT" show is easier to say.
Have to say the show was quite entertaining... Errr.. I abit siow lah, I cried abit towards the latter part of the show. Heheheh.. I know lah...GILA lah. Boys definitely enjoyed the show...

Sleeping??????

Not us. The driver was!!!

Driver dropped all four of us at Carrefour this afternoon. Bought our necessary stuff and proceeded down to the lobby. H called him. Voicemail. I called too. Voicemail. H tried another few times. I did too. All to voicemail. I then went to the Car Call counter to have him PAGED over the PA. Sooooo many times. Still nowhere in sight. I called many more times. Voicemail. H tried walking about the HUGE carpark. Finally, we got fed-up and took a cab home. In the cab, I called him. Still Voicemail, then sent him an SMS. Then H called him...finally GOT through.

STUPID fella turned OFF his phone, and went to sleep!!!!!!!

Where can like that??? How would he know how long we would spend at Carrefour if he turns OFF the blardy phone?? And some more go to sleep!! How STUPID can he be?? Duh!!

Anyway, am glad that H was with me...then he could be the one reprimanding the driver...rather than me doing it... Now...everytime he drops me, I will have to tell him to NOT turn his phone off and to LISTEN to the CarCall Announcements..

Same Race? Or Not?

{Sponsored Post}

During the summer holidays at my mom's, it was the good 'ole days of having chats with my mom whilst in the car, on the couch, lying in bed... One of the topics that came up was that one my cousin sister had married a Caucasian. My aunt, a modern trendy Chinese woman, surprisingly opposed the marriage as the groom was of a different race, and refused to attend the wedding. Thankfully, my mom, though in the same generation as my aunt does not share the same kind of old-fashioned, narrow mind as her! As long as two people truly love, trust, commit to each other, race is not an issue at all. Besides, your soul mate out there may not be of the same race as yourself! If you are single and still waiting for your soul mate, why not widen your horizons by using interracial personals? It's real easy. SignUp FREE to this interracial dating community, and start looking for your soul mate. You can search for specific profiles and location of your potential mate. It's only takes a few minutes, tops! What is there to lose? Even if you don't find your soul mate, you might still find a few good mates!


LOST!

Not the popular series...

Am talking about my LOST ATM card.

I've searched everywhere but it is no where in sight. Think I might have left it at the ATM machine on Wednesday when I took boys to the mall for ice-skating. Didn't have any cash with me, so went to take some cash. Must have forgotten about retrieving the card after taking the dosh. I didn't know that the card was gone until H asked me for it the next day.

Luckily, there's no money in there... otherwise, I will feel mega bad.

Memory also failing... becoming a "satt wann woo kwai"!!

Thursday, August 16, 2007

Worse than Poor!!!

Went for my 2nd FREE personal training at Celebrity Fitness today. The Personal Trainer (PT) took my body measurements and calculated my % body fat.
The results? Worse than Poor!
I know my BMI index is within range, but the PT kept saying that the % body fat is the one that is important.
What is the %? Aiya...Shy to say lah... So better just shaddap.

So how like that? Got to exercise regularly lor.

Finding the Right Lighting

The primary function of lighting is of course illumination. But more importantly, lighting is a key part of interior design, and can also be an intrinsic component of landscaping. The right light fixtures can really enhance any living or working spaces.

When we were decorating our 2-1/2 storey home, we were rather selective of our light fixtures for the different areas in our home. We had to visit multiple lighting showrooms in multiple locations to source for just the right home lighting that would create the decor and ambiance that we want.

We traveled northwards for
bathroom light fixtures, southwards for kitchen light fixtures and westwards for other light fixtures. It was MEGA exhausting and stressful! It would be a great help to have all sorts of lighting from different manufacturers all under one roof!


Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Yeeeeeee Haaaaar!!!

Saddle Up, Girl!!!!

This is a MAJOR Giddy Yup Session sponsored by a very popular Exercise/Massage Equipment company. When I took this picture in the mall today, these Yeeeeeeee Haaaaaar machines were actually MOVING one, okay!!! Aiyo...I was just imagining the many shopper-volunteers testing out these machines en-masse. Already whenever I see a person galloping on these in FULL public view, I already GELI lah (yes... I velly notti-minded)... Can you imagine 35 ladies Yeeeee Haaaaar-ing?????

Chinese Zodiac

When I was a little girl, I remember my mom would get us animal jewelry that corresponds to our Chinese Zodiac signs. As you know, the Chinese Zodiac signs are depicted by twelve animals. The first sign is the Rat, followed by the Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and finally, the Pig. Me? I am the ever famous Miss Piggy, of course!!!

Power Outage!

Living in a Third World Country, power outages are sometimes expected. Thus many homes and buildings are equipped with diesel generators for emergency power. Although the diesel requirement for small diesel generators is low, the fuel requirement for generators supplying emergency power to larger buildings can be quite excessive. Ever wondered how the diesel fuel is delivered to these large generators? Well, it generally depends on the fuel consumption rate and storage facilities on-site. If the quantity is very large, a bulk tanker can be used. Otherwise, a transfer tank is used. The transfer tank can also serve as temporary storage on-site.

Potong Steam!

We were supposed to go off to the islands tomorrow for our Open Water Diving Certification cum holiday with the boys. Then about 2 pm today, H called me and said "errrr... we can't go tomorrow. I have to work". Soooooooo POTONG STEAM!

This trip has already been postponed twice before... so counting this time, it's the third! I told H that at the rate that we are going, by the time that we are to take the REAL certification, I would have FORGOTTEN everything that I've learnt!

Some more I had to cajole S2 yesterday...Our convo:
S2: How are we going to the island?
Me: By Boat
S2: Why? Why can't we take the plane?
Me: Because the boat is the only way to get there.
S2: I don't want to go! What if the boat hit a BIG rock? How if there are sharks?

At this point, S1 piped in.
S1: Yeah. What if the boat hits a rock, and there are sharks?
Me: *Frustrated* Aiya....there are no sharks lah...Besides. Not all Sharks are dangerous.
S1: Wait. Let me go check

S1 proceeded to open up his "DISCOVERY SHARK BOOK" to read.

S2: *Whining grumpily* I'm sure got sharks lah.. After the sharks eat us all...
Me: *Fed-up* Aiya...If got sharks, I will ask the shark to eat me first lah.

S1: Yeah. Yeah. There are NO great white sharks in these parts of the world. They are found in ..blah blah blah (proceeded to name the places where Great White Shark is found)

And then I saw S2 hugging his pillow very quietly. Thought he fell asleep. Took his pillow away, and this fella was sort of frowning crying but not really crying kind.

Me: What's wrong with you?
S2: *Dramatic expression* You lah! You said you gonna get the shark to eat you!
Me: Aiya.... No sharks lah. Your brother already said NO great white shark in these waters
S2: What if got sting ray? Pierce our hearts??

ALAMAK!!! That fella remembered about Steve Irvin pulak!!!

.... Then I had to cajole. Explain. All sorts lah...before he finally calmed down.

And when he heard that the trip has been cancelled this afternoon, that siow-kia shouted "Yay! We don't have to die!"

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Belisi Fashion

{Sponsored Post}

As with every woman, I sometimes do indulge in some designer items on myself. I know I do deserve these indulgence once in a while, but I do feel a wee bit guilty. But with Belisi, "Luxury with Meaning" is their tag line. What does it mean? Basically, the company strives to unite customers with similar ideas of loving fashion and helping others! Belisi donates a minimum of 10% of their pre-tax profits! That's FASHION with a CAUSE! What's even better is that you can even choose which charity you want to benefit. Now, we can LOVE luxury fashion without the guilt. Belisi does have a GREAT range of products such as silk scarves, ties, pocket squares and a soon-to-be launched line of luxury handbags. Actually, what I like are the matching Pocket Squares and ties. I think H would look absolutely smart and dashing in his black suit and these accessories!


My Reebok Shoes


*SIGH*

Why am I sighing???

When I went to the mall last week to buy a pair of training shoes for gym (had to have a pair of shoes for my free personal training...), the sales in all the sports shops have ended. So, what to do? I bought the cheapest pair of Reebok I could find.....which costs about USD 45.

Then ALAMAK!!! Today, when I went to the BIG Departmental store for the Quicksilver SALE, the sports section still had a SALE on. And Reebok is having a SALE of 40% OFF!!! My shoes were going for about USD 25/-!!!!! You say FRUSTRATING or not????

That's why I am sighing sooooooo LOUDLY! *SIGH*

Blinds or Curtains?

If you asked me whether I preferred blinds or curtains, I would definitely go for blinds anytime! WHY? I don't really know. Perhaps I have lived with curtains dressing up windows all my life, that blinds make an attractive alternative. If I have my way, I would like to have wooden blinds for the bedroom, roman blinds for the living, and roller blinds for the kitchen.

T-Shirts Galore!

That's why I always say cannot go out lah... Once go out, sure will spend money one....

Quicksilver stuff... S1 likes Quicksilver ma... And in there, they have NEXT which is also having aAfter lunch today, dropped by into a BIG departmental store which is having a BIG sale on BIG sale... So, ended up buying some T-shirts for the boys... Didn't buy much for myself except for two workout pants. How to JALAN with these 2 monsters?? I have to be a MonsterMom and screamed at them every other minute if not every minute!

S1' white T-Shirt from Quicksilver







Ditto from Quicksilver









S1's NEXT T-Shirt








S2's NEXT T-Shirt








Nomadic Mom's ROXY Workout Pants


The total costs of all these 6 pieces? About RM 200. Quite a good deal, huh?

Insurance

My beloved grandpa was a non-believer of insurance. So much so that he had somehow ingrained into my dad the ideology that insurance is a waste of money. On the contrary, my sisters and I are true advocates in insurance, for we understand the importance of protection from unlikely events or illnesses. Not only we have insurance for ourselves, we have also purchased children insurance for our offspring.

Give me Jewelry Instead!

Recently, H asked me again if I wanted a NEW handbag. My answer to that was a "NO". (I know Laundryamah is going to scream "You crazy or what? Your husband wants to buy you a new handbag, of course you should say YES. YES. YES"... ) We were at the Tods Boutique the other day to use up some vouchers that he got from Citibank, and he wanted to buy a white Tods bag for me (don't know the model) and I refused! Yes. You heard me right. I did refuse the bag. Told H to get a wallet for himself instead. I told H that if he really wants to buy me a gift, how about jewelry ? I definitely do not mind another pair of earrings or maybe a bracelet!

Sunday, August 12, 2007

FRENCH Fine Dining

This post is a wee bit back-dated...

H has always raved about the yummy steaks at The Four Seasons Hotel's steakhouse. And of course, I would reply with "tok tok so much. Why never bring me one?" to which he would answer with a "wah...too expensive lah. Cannot afford to bring you there!". Well, apparently the steaks start from at least USD 55 and will starters, main and wine, the average bill would be about USD 170 or so for two diners.

Well, last Friday (10th Aug), H said that both of us should go "yaang thoi kiok" and suggest we go to The Four Seasons... I was like "waaaaaaa. Sure or not?" and he answered with "yeah lah...am not that poor lah"... so, off we went. But the traffic jam on Friday nites is MEGA terrible, and Four Seasons is not exactly round the corner. I've just read a review on a French Restaurant called "Emilie" in the current issue of the Expat magazine, and suggested we go there instead. Called the restaurant to make a reservation for 2. We reached the restaurant rather quickly... at about 5 past 7.

The restaurant's decor is simple. The food? Have to say it was DELICIOUS.

MENU
Escargots with Garlic Butter (Him)
Pan-Seared Foie Gras with Caramelized Apples and Grapes (Me)
Roasted Rack of Lamb with Scalloped Potatoes (2 to share)
Lime Sorbet (Him)
Mille Feuille with Rum Flambed Bananas & Chocolate Mousse (Me)

Wine - Australian Chardonnay

Okay, H's Escargots is okay lah... probably because we are more used to the RICHER Malaysian version. BUT, my pan-seared foie gras was really excellent. Once popped in, the foie gras melts in the mouth. Reaaaalllllly exquisite!!!!

The lamb rack was roasted to just right...Succulent. Tender. Juicy. With just the right amount of gravy. The Scalloped potatoes were also good!!!

My dessert? Heavenly!!

Why NO Photos? I sort of mentioned that I wanted to take photos, and H immediately said "PUH-LEASE! Sooooo sua-koo" and quickly kept his camera phone which was sitting on the table ....

The damage? Errrr.... quite pai-seh to say lah.... Felt bad that I said "errr..let's pretend the dinner is for my soon-to-come birthday dinner!!"

Signs

After getting myself sooooo geram, I must cool down lah.... So, read some funny email that my friend sent to me...This one is about various signs... Quite funny..

Sign over a Gynecologist's Office:

"Dr. Jones, at your cervix."

**************************

In a Podiatrist's office:

"Time wounds all heels."

**************************

On a Septic Tank Truck :

Yesterday's Meals on Wheels

**************************

At a Proctologist's door:

"To expedite your visit, please back in."

**************************

On a Plumber's truck:

"We repair what your husband fixed."

**************************

On another Plumber's truck:

"Don't sleep with a drip. Call your plumber.."

**************************

On a Church's Billboard:

"7 days without God makes one weak."

**************************

At a Tire Shop in Milwaukee :

"Invite us to your next blowout."

**************************

At a Towing company:

"We don't charge an arm and a leg. We want tows."

**************************

On an Electrician's truck:

"Let us remove your shorts."

**************************

In a Nonsmoking Area:

"If we see smoke, we will assume you are on fire and take appropriate action."

**************************

On a Maternity Room door:

"Push. Push. Push."

**************************


At an Optometrist's Office :

"If you don't see what you're looking for, you've come to the right place."

**************************

On a Taxidermist's window:

"We really know our stuff."

**************************

On a Fence:

"Salesmen welcome! Dog food is expensive!"

**************************


At a Car Dealership:

"The best way to get back on your feet - miss a car payment."

**************************

Outside a Muffler Shop:

"No appointment necessary. We hear you coming."

**************************

In a Veterinarian's waiting room:

"Be back in 5 minutes. Sit! Stay!"

**************************

At the Electric Company :

"We would be delighted if you send in your payment.

However, if you don't, you will be."

**************************

In a Restaurant window:

"Don't stand there and be hungry, Come on in and get fed up."

**************************

In the front yard of a Funeral Home:

"Drive carefully. We'll wait."

**************************


At a Propane Filling Station,
"Thank heaven for little grills."

**************************

And don't forget the sign at a Chicago Radiator Shop:

"Best place in town to take a leak."



I am sooooo Mad!!

Absolutely fuming!!! Ada steam coming out from my head even!!!

First, S2 poured water on himself on purpose, and then sat on S1's duvet. In retaliation, S1 poured almost a whole bottle of water on S2's bed. The water seeped through 3 layers of sheet, mite protector, mattress protector into the mattress!!!! You say I go ballistic or not??????

Of course, S1 kena tongue-lashing more than S2. He is 10 years old already and should blardy well know that I would go mad. Why did he do it????

Punishment?
NO TV. NO Games. NO PC.

p/s Can't wait for school to start in two weeks!!!!

Friday, August 10, 2007

Snow for the Summer Holidays!

{Sponsored Post}

What did I just say?
You heard me right!


I did say "Snow for the Summer Holidays"! During this time of the year, although it's sweltering heat in the Northern Hemisphere, it's WINTER in the Southern Hemisphere! That means SNOW in some places! In fact, S2's friend and her entire family has gone to New Zealand for some winter fun. Skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, skating and sledding too!... How envious we all are! I guessed all we can contend with is the new, fun and exciting SledTV - the all new Snowmobile Television that is available right now! Well, we can still have WINTER FUN on our comfy couches!!!



I Grew Taller, meh???

I went for my first FREE personal training at Celebrity Fitness today. And the personal trainer (PT) took my height measurements. I always thought that I was 165 cm BUT it was 169 cm wor!!

Errr..couldn't find another image to depict the number 169, so have to use the Interstate sign lah... SO. Think all the stretching and lengthening of spine during my YOGA class over the last two years made me taller????? Got such thing or not????

Anyway, intially...I wanted to do a little more after the personal training, but I have to say my stamina is absolutely ZILCH!!!! After the threadmill, I was a bit kepala pusing liow. Hahahah.. I know! I know! A bit "boh lor iong". Aiya...give me chance lah....must slowly build up stamina ma...

Thursday, August 09, 2007

Celebrity Fitness


No! No! No! Ini bukan SPONSORED lah... Actually there was an opp on PPP on Psoriasis which I missed.... The dermatologist in KL diagnosed my skin condition as "psoriasis". Don't worry! It's NOT contagious as it is somewhat hereditary. Anyway, read it up on various medical sites and the type that I have MAY PRECEDE arthritis by about ten years... So HAVE to strengthen my Joints NOW by doing some exercise. Told H about me wanting to go to the gym. That fella of course very gladly pay the registration and monthly fees lah.... since I put on quite a lot of weight the last month. Go to gym can lose a few pounds wor... But of course primary objective is to strengthen strengthen strengthen. Well, joined Celebrity Fitness because it's quite close to boys' chinese tuition class. Can pop in after dropping boys off.
Lilypie 6th to 18th Ticker
Lilypie 6th to 18th Ticker