London Memories

H came back from London a week ago, and he has been indicating that we should visit London together during the Raya Holidays. I haven't been to London for ages. The last time was in September 2002. London does bring back lots of memories....weekend walks in Hyde Park...feeding the ducks, West End musicals, shopping on Oxford Street, Oodles of Noodles in Chinatown, the V&A and Natural History Museums within walking distance from my old Uni...

What would I do in London this time? Visit the London Eye, cruise down the River Thames, be entertained by musicals such as "The Lion King" and "Mamma Mia", and to visit my dear little sister and her beloved, of course!

Can't stay at my sister's love nest, so...we'll have to book into a London hotel. Where in London? Most likely a hotel along the Picadilly Line as the access to London Heathrow and Leicester Square is easy. How about the 5-Star Covent Garden Hotel? Okay... maybe 5-Star is way out of our budget. How about the 4-Star Radisson Edwardian Mountbatten Hotel?

Update on Kids...

House Captain??
"I am going to run for House Captain", S1 announced as he came down from the bus on Thursday afternoon. I have to say that I was a little bit surprised that my scardy-kat was gonna run for House Captain. He worked on his speech for quite some time that night. The next day, S2 came home and announced that his brother (S1 went straight to T's house for sleepover) didn't win but managed to be the Vice-Captain.
And then he added "B won because he is better looking". Of course I was shocked, and remarked with a "Huh?? Where got such thing one?".
Then, S2 replied "No. Actually. He is not better looking. But he sound good".
I asked "Do you mean that B has a better speech?"
"Yeaaaaaa!!!", was S2's reply.
So...there, my S1 is the Vice-Captain for the RED House.

On the same note... S1 commented "T didn't want me to run for House Captain because he said then he won't be able to see me during lunch time". When I heard this, I actually laughed, and told H that it sounded like a girlfriend whining to the boyfriend! BTW, T is a boy too.

Musical Instruments
It is now compulsory to learn at least one musical instrument at school. And S1 has chosen the guitar. I wonder if he can really pick it up. Somehow, I have the idea that kids need to learn to read notes at a much younger age. As for S2, he'll be learning to play the Alto Saxophone. Hopefully, all the BLOWING will reduce his TALKING AIR! hahahahaa....

High School Musical 2

Both my boys are really crazy over High School Musical 2. They will sing and gyrate with the tunes. Now, their room is filled with posters of the guy and the gal and donno who else.... To watch the show this evening, they gladly did their Maths and clean their room!

What is Important?

My mom just SMS-ed me to inform that Pavarotti has succumbed to cancer today. *Sigh* Am overwhelmed with quite a lot of news about friends and relatives getting cancer. My cousin-in-law passed away last week, from lung cancer that has metathesized to her bones. She was only 42. And yesterday, I received an email from my friend in Bangkok. Her ex-husband has just been diagnosed with 3rd-stage liver cancer. He undergoes extensive check-ups for his pilot's license renewal every year; thus the discovery that the cancer is in its late stage was quite a shock. I informed my mom on this, and she reverted with the news that her best friend's (also a breast cancer patient) husband has also been diagnosed with cancer. It brings to light that despite of all the wealth and power, health would still be the most important aspect of life. We should also lead life to the fullest, worry less and be happy always.

Mommy and Son

Yesterday, S2 had a playdate over at a friend's house (err...on a weekday as his friend is moving to Cambodia at the end of this month...so cincai lah). So what do I do? Took S1 out for a mommy and son bonding session. At first, he didn't want to lah... But then agreed when I said OKAY to his request for a Cappucino!! And that fella wanted to go to a fancy place some more! So, we went to a place called Huize van Wely, a Pattissier, Chocolatier, Glacier and Salon de Thè. Yes. S2 had his own personal cup of Cappucino. He was very pleased! Think he felt kinda grown-up. Previously, he's had sips from mine but never his own. But our friend, perhaps tried too hard..he dribbled Cappucino all over his shirt. Anyway, S1 did have a pasta dish, and as for me, had the Afternoon Tea for One....finished with 3 pieces of handmade chocolate. WAH!!!!! The bill came and was about USD 45/-....Almost fainted! Even whole family have a satisfying crab meal also not so expensive. And then S1 said "Let's come again!" and I was quick to answer with a "NO-lah...errr...maybe just for the coffees, Okay?" Perhaps I should look on the bright side that mother and son bonded over a cuppa??? Instead of the $$$ flying away....

Also, further to my Vomit Blood post on S2, and subsequent enlightenment that it's due to hormones, I am striving to laugh at their Off-and-On antics of sorts, instead of tearing my hair out. I mean, soon...they will be so grown up....So, what do I do?

- Listen to S2 burp his ABCs....
- Listen to the boys sing amended songs.. Like? You know the song that begins with "I believe I could fly...I believe I could touch the sky...". Well, it has been amended to "I believe I could die...I've been shot by the FBI..." And the Barney song? It used to have an ending "won't you say you love me too..." and now it becomes "sorry kids but Barney's dead!".
....and the list goes on...

HP Ink Cartridges

{Sponsored Post}

Ever since S2 knows how to use the computer to print out webpages, my printer cartridges get empty pretty quick. We have a HP All-in-One Printer that sits in the study room. For a long time, the kids were using the computer all over the house, except the study room. I thought that the kids, especially S2 would not know how to connect the USB cable from the printer to the laptop. How wrong I was! One day, I wanted to print some documents, and discovered that the ink cartridge that I've replaced NOT too long ago has depleted all the ink! And by the side of the printer, were discarded COLOURFUL pages of Pokemon monsters, Harry Potter and Eragon!! Some Sherlock Holmes investigation revealed that S2 was the culprit. I was surprised that he is more computer-savvy than I thought...which is good. But the downside is that I would have to replace the HP Ink Cartridges, which costs a small fortune!!! It would be great if there's a store that sells original HP Ink Cartridges at a discount over here. But if you are in the UK, look no further than InkCartridgesDirect.

Thirty Five Questions TAG

This TAG is courtesy of Shern's Mom.

Where is your cell phone? Still in my handbag
Relationship? Friendship 22 Years. Marriage almost 11 years
Your hair? Just got it highlighted today
Work? Shopping, Spa-ing, Golfing, ..
Your sister/s? DKSL, MKYM, MKSY, GKSN and VKSS
Your favorite thing? SLEEP!!!!!
Your dream last night? SCARY!! Dreamt that I was preggers with No.3
Your favorite drink? Think would be Watermelon
Your dream car? One that will go VROOOM VROOOM and allows me to ZOOOOOM off in a jiff!!!!
The room you’re in? Study Room
Your shoes? See my two new pairs???? Heee heee
Your fears? Too many. Don't wanna think!!!
What do you want to be in 10 years? One cool svelte momma with ZERO worries!!!
Who did you hang out with this weekend? Aiyo... with my boys wor...
What are you not good at? Managing my worries
Muffin? Haven't had one in ages! But think banana ones would be yummy.
One of your wish list items? Too many. Cannot decide!!
Where you grew up? Petaling Jaya
Last thing you did? Picked S2 up from his friend's house
What are you wearing? Still my Kai-kai clothes... (think I should go shower now!!)
What aren’t you wearing? Now? Shoes lah...inside the house ma..
Your pet? NONE. Or do my two monyets count??
Your computer? IMac and Dell
Your life? Can't complain lah..
Your mood? Quite good except for S2 driving me NUTS~
Missing? My family back home in PJ
What are you thinking about right now? That I must shower soon...*scratch* *Scratch*
Your car? Fortuner ...7 seater so can ferry visiting guests....
Your kitchen? Alright lah.. but needs an island
Last time you laughed?Over latte with S1
Last time you cried? When I watch Ratatouille. Yeah. I know. SEOW!!!
School? Assunta, Princess Helena College, Swansea College, Imperial College...
TAG: WMD, VeryVera, SAHM, Misha's Mum, Dancing Queen

Adaptor Required??

I'm rather appalled at the water quality in this country. The water from our taps are actually groundwater pumped out to a storage tank, that's located up on the roof of my house. I have a ceramic water filter which I want to have fixed onto my kitchen tap. But the fittings somehow does not match. I would have to purchase a suitable adaptor, or in the worst case purchase a totally new tap. I will hop over to Delta faucets to check out on their wide product range.

Sea Gull Lighting

Our expat Ladies Group was having our regular gathering in the penthouse apartment of one of the members. The apartment was tastefully furnished befitting of a penthouse. The pièce de résistance was the lighting over the dining table. It absolutely enhances the dining space exquisitely. I wished I could have a stylish chandelier like the one from seagull lighting over my dining table!

H's Trip

Do you know what is the WORST thing about a hubby who has flown around the world and back????

His JET-LAG!!!!!

Aiyo...3 AM in the morning, and he is AWAKE. Awake nevermind.... some more will wake you up to KACAU you wor... How like that???

Aiya...since he brought back so many goodies for the boys and I, cin-chai lah.... Let him KACAU lah...hahahaha..

p/s Didn't manage to take a photo of the secretary's Coach Wallet. But...have to say, not very nice lah... heheheheh...

City of Edinburgh

Looking for a job?

But don't know which city is best?

Have you ever thought about working in the City of Edinburgh, Scotland's capital?
Located only about 45 miles from the largest Scottish city of Glasgow, Edinburgh has the largest economy of any city in the United Kingdom outside London. Jobs in Edinburgh are plentiful, primarily in the service sector, i.e. education, health, finance and tourism. What's more is that Edinburgh is a city vibrant with festivities, top-class restaurants and wonderful museums and galleries. After a hard day's work, there's loads of after-hours activities to help you unwind. So, what are you waiting for? There's bound to be an Edinburgh job that suits you best!

"Foot-Lou"

H is on his way back from the airport now, and he called to have a chat. And he mentioned that he bought a COACH wallet for his secretary for her birthday.... WAHHHH!!!!! So "foot-lou"!!!!!! What can I say??? Just keep quiet while he talks lah. This fella ar... talk to secretary so nice one...talk to me, like want to eat me up!!! I told him so, and he said "secretary will run away , but you won't". @sshole, or not? Hanky-Panky? No lah.... It's the women that he don't tell or mention then I would be worried....Will see if I can manage to take a photo of the wallet....Later..

Computer Table...

This one NOT Sponsored... Funnily, I actually did buy a computer table yesterday.... But of course mine NOT STYLO-MYLO as the ones from FurnitureFromHome lah. (I WISH!!!) Mine is the conventional type lah. Bought my set from Ace Hardware. It was ON SALE. I mana will buy non-sale stuff one. The table and swivel chair only costs RM 130/-. Quite good deal, huh? Yes. Our computers are all laptops...but like I said, at least the boys are GLUED to one place rather than moving the laptop here there, everywhere....which resulted in very loose hinges between the screen and the body!!

Home Office

{Sponsored Post}

These days, every home would have a computer. Be it for the home office, or for the kids to complete their school work. A home computer desk would come in real handy, even if you own a laptop. Why? Because "IT" is the designated area for the computer, and the kids would then at least be rooted down to that spot, rather than carrying the fragile laptop to wherever they wish! You would think that computer desks are ugly looking pieces of furniture. But check out the stylish ones from FurnitureFromHome!

Rush Hour 3

Took boys to watch RUSH HOUR 3 at the cineplex this afternoon. They enjoyed it tremendously with all the action-packed stunts, and simple humour. I thought it was okay...except for the ending. Felt it ended too abruptly and with no real logical explanation (i.e. how come they don't have to prove that the Head of the International Court is the bad guy, and they are the good???). But as my mom would say "choe hee siow, khwa hee gong" (Best translation I can think of is "acting is mad, watching is silly" or something like that. Anyone can help with a better translation???)

Refrigerators Wanted!

{Sponsored Post}

Imagine... You've just returned from the supermarket with bagfuls of groceries. You load the grub into the refrigerator. And you discover the worst...... the refrigerator has spoilt! But you think "It can't be! My trusted 'ole refrigerator has been working faithfully for more than ten years!!" You call the repairman, and he says "Sorry ma'am. I don't have the part. I can order it, though. But it will take 4 weeks and costs $$$$.". What do you do? Wait for weeks or purchase a newer, more energy-saving model? Many people would choose the latter. But which brand to buy? There are so many brands in the market these days, from KitchenAid Refrigerators to Maytag, to Samsung. And where to buy? This is where Krillion can assist with its unique Krillion Localization Engine™, which would deliver relevant search results that are specific to your town or city of residence. Do check the site at www.krillion.com!

Pink Ladies?

No lah. Am not trying to be like Michelle Pheiffer in Grease.

Bought a pair of Mizuno PINK golf shoes that was on sale few weeks back. Am not really into pink, but thought the pink golf shoes look kinda cute, and matches my pink gloves. I bought my gloves first...actually wanted to have a black or grey pair. But the choices for ladies were limited, so was somewhat "forced" to purchase a pink pair. But after using it for a couple of months, pink is quite becoming.

Anyway, wore PROPER golf shoes for the first time on Friday, and hit a 130 yard. I was pretty PLEASED! And you know what my instructor said? He said it's because I am wearing proper shoes now and NOT SHOPPING SHOES! Heheeh.. Previously, I kept on wearing my Timberland walking shoes lah..which he took a look and poo-pooed it. Aiya.. I have to wait for SALE ma.....

Anyway, this is the view from Bay No. 50 at the Driving Range...

Reino de España

Better known as Spain, to you and I.

It has been more than ten years since I last stepped onto Spanish soil, in Barcelona to be exact. Ahhh... Glorious tapas, fragrant paella, Flamenco dancers, Picasso Museum, Gaudi architecture (famous Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila etc), La Ramblas... I should have gone to Barcelona with H, when he was there in February. As it's for work, he stayed in one of the fancier, more luxurious Hoteles en Barcelona. If we were to go by ourselves, we will definitely look for affordable Hotels in Barcelona.

I've not been to Madrid, Spain's capital city. So we'll have to add this city into my list of "Places to Visit". We'll have to visit the Royal Palace, watch a bullfight, and as a treat for H, go to a Real Madrid football match. Any good, clean and affordable Hotels in Madrid you would recommend?

Hormones are the Culprit!

As mentioned in my last post, took boys to a birthday party today. Had little chats with some of the moms, and one of them mentioned how her son (S2's classmate) was "testing" and "teasing" the teacher, and ultimately got punished for not following instructions. And of course the topic veered to how S2 has been making me "Vomit Blood". Apparently, she said that it's due to testosterone that are being released into their system at this age, i.e. 7 - 8. They would be TESTING and exerting their "power" on things when this gush of hormones happens. The next gush would happen when they are about 14 years old. She was also tearing her hair out with her son, until someone advised her to read the book entitled "Raising Happy Boys" which is written by a man. It hopes to give mothers an insight into the growing minds of boys. :-) I'll have to go borrow it from the school library.

Actually, am halfway reading a book called "Sibling without Rivalry". When I was just into the first chapter, I was laughing away because the screaming lady in the book sounded so much like me, the the fighting kids sound just exactly like my two monsters. It made me feel soooo NORMAL. Haahahahaa...

Party by the Lake

S2's Friend had his birthday party today at a club. It was held on a shady garden by the lakeside. It was quite pleasant. Boys had great fun on the bouncy castle. There was also face painting, kite painting, T-shirt painting, magic show, balloon sculpting. Kids could also make their own personalized cups. The party ended with a "SpiderMan" piñata. As usual, all the kids CHARGED like bulls the moment the piñata broke and revealed the sweets within! The birthday boy then gave out the party bags to the guests. I have to say that quite alot of money must have been spent on the party. The party planner, the food, drinks, cake, piñata, materials for the activities and the party bags. Each party bag is filled with a box of "Spiderman 3" Stationery, "Spiderman 3" DVD Pocket Storage, "Spiderman 3" Badge, Sports Water Bottle, Box of Colour Pencils and a matchbox-sized car. My party bags for my boys' birthday parties pale by comparison!

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

Do you have kids?

Are they struggling with school or need Homework Help?

Are you looking for a Tutor?

Is the Tutoring cost exorbitant, and out of your reach?

If your answer to the above four questions are all YES, you may want to check out TutorVista.com. It is a leading company providing Online Tutoring to students from Kindergarten through to Grade 12, and college too. The tutoring package is only at USD 99.99 per month, with unlimited access at anytime of the day. The package includes tutoring in all subjects ranging from English, Math, Science, Economics, History and so on and so forth. More importantly, the tutoring programs are customized to the individual student. For example, a student weak in Quadratic Equations can have this Algebra topic be prioritize over others. Do check it out to find out more!

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

{Sponsored Post}

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?

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*

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.. :-)

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!!

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....

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
Hôtels 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:

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.

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.

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

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??)!!!

"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"!!

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!

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.