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.

Good Realtor is Important

I have a realtor friend who specializes in the mid- to high-end properties. I have to say that she is really good in what she does. I supposed she understands all the important traits that a good realtor must have in order to provide the best service to her clients. What's more? Most of her clients whether sellers or purchasers, somehow becomes her good friends. With her expertise, efficiency and friendliness, selling or buying a home is stress-free.

Huh? What Earthquake?

Got a call from one of my uncles this morning ..."Are you all alright?"...I was abit surprised as to how come he called me in the morning to ask this kind of question and answered "errr...yeah. Why?"... Well, apparently there was an earthquake last night that measured 7.1 on the Richter scale! The epicenter was in the central region of the island...but the quake was felt in the whole metropolitan area of our city. All four of us sleep until like piggies...really didn't know anything had happened.

My uncle lives in a city apartment, and he said he felt the tremor quite strongly. I asked my driver and he said that they were awoken from slumber, and he saw that the water in the bottle was swishing from one side to another...

I haven't watched the news yet...so donno the extent and developments.

Tuesday, August 07, 2007

BIG Bookshop Warehouse Sale

This one NOT sponsored lah... And also quite back-dated...

Before I forget, The Big Bookshop is having a warehouse sale in Atria, Damansara Jaya (they are actually occupying the whole 1st floor of the old Parkson) till 27th (i think) August. There's really loads of good deals. Some Scholastic Books are only RM 1/-!!!!!! I actually went to Atria to do something else, then saw the sale...bought some FUNFAX for the boys at only RM 15 each!!! Normally, they costs about RM 49!!!! As mom had a prior appointment, she was hurrying me..so didn't get to buy much...BUT BUT BUT... I went with my sisters and the boys later in the afternoon. Kept on telling boys to get something from the RM 1/- pile but they don't want wor... But the other books were also very good. S1 bought Dr.Who series @ RM 15 for each HARDback, Horrible Science @ RM 8. ...and I actually bought a few from MPH prior to this at over RM 30! Luckily, the ones at MPH were purchased using vouchers that I redeemed from my Maybank points...otherwise will "Thamm summ thamm fai" lah... Loads of Book of Knowledge at RM 8 - 9. Very Good Lor.. Even Chic Lit are about RM 12. And Hardbacks at RM 19.90. VERY VERY GOOD DEALS..

Anyway, bought loads of books during this KL trip...so much so that both boys had HAND carry the books.... But of course use trolley bags lah... Will post some pictures of our nice nice books later....

GO CHECK IT OUT BEFORE IT ENDS!!!!

Soooooo Si-tu-pid!

Aiyo...ppl say "yann chooon hai mou york yee" one leh... HOW?? I so si-tu-pid...was wondering for the last one hour as to how come my WIFI signal sooooooo low one? Only one bar and even disappearing wor... So, diconnecting all the time lah! Aiya!!! Go and connect to other ppl's "linksys" network ...instead of my own house one!!! Bodoh or not? Only found out the booo-booo five minute ago... NOW? The signal is full bar lor..

"Heart of Greed"


Waaaaa....just managed to finish watching the HK TVB Series "Heart of Greed'. Have been watching till soooooo late at night. Slept way past two last night...of should I say this morning? H has been watching together with me until the last DVD. He has to go to work and I couldn't wait...so watched the last one myself.

Have to say that I watched until so "yook kann" that I was scolding, cursing, swearing at the characters. H was sniggering beside me, and kept on saying "it's just a show lah"... Anyway, with most shows, of course got HAPPY ending one lah...

Go and watch it! Am sure you also will be scolding, cursing and swearing at some parts! :-)

Which Digital Camera to Buy???

{Sponsored Post}

I am currently using a Fujifilm FinePix Z1 digital camera. Think it needs to be repaired as I find that sometimes the flash doesn't come on at the right instance, resulting in dark gloomy photos. Also, I kinda like cameras that can zooooooooom really far, which my current has limited ability. So am thinking of upgrading my current camera to another newer, better make and model. BUT, which digital camera to buy? There are many brands and models in the market now ranging from Canon, Casio , Kodak, Leica, Nikon, Olympus, Sony, and not forgetting Fujifilm FinePix. Where do I start? I chanced upon TestFreaks online, which can help in finding the best digital camera available. There are write-ups on features and helpful reviews too! Need to purchase gadgets other than digital cameras? Fret not! TestFreaks have write-ups and reviews on camcorders, MP3 players, cellphones and TVs too. Don't be shy! Hop over to TestFreaks if you need help in purchasing the best gadgets!

Sunday, August 05, 2007

TAG - What do you do with a million bucks?

I've been tagged by Dancing Queen! This tag is "What do you do with a million bucks?"

As one million in the local currency is only approximately RM 400/-, it's nothing to shout about leh.... As most people also use US Dollars over here, I will base this Tag on USD.
$1,000,000.00

Okay... First, I must go to bed... Of course lah! Otherwise how to DREAM that I have $ 1,000,000.00 leh???????

....ZZZZZZZZZZZZ.....

If I have $1,000,000, first I will pay off some of my housing and investment property debt, and then invest some. Set up some kind of trust fund for my boys. Give some to my parents. Take my whole family to a FUN holiday. Give a bit to worthy charities. And finally, maybe start my own business.

Can $1,000,000.00 achieve all these tasks???? Since only DREAM, can lah!!

Now, who do I give the honor to start dreaming about how they are going to spend their million dollar bucks??

WMD
Very Vera
SAHM
Mommy of Two Angels


Please leave your links in the copy so that it's all connected.

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

Instructions :

**Start Copy**

Proposition: If you Have $1,000,000.00…………………………………

Requirements: continue above sentences

Tag Mode: 5 blogger
1st - You leave their blog and post link and add to the list below.
2nd - Let the blogger you want to tag know they been tagged by comment in their blog or etc.

What They Do With Their $1 Million

1. SYH will spend for Family.

2. Miche will give to the needy.

3. Montessorimum will keepsake.

4. Mumsgather will secure her kids' financial future.

5. Bkworm will be debt free.

6. Dancing Queen will go on a lifelong holiday.

7. Nomadic Mom will do a multitude of things....



Sale! Sale! Sale!

Everywhere you look in the malls, the SALE sign is UP! Shoes, clothes, toiletries, household goods, sports items etc etc. It is mega tempting to go into these shops to snap up on these deals. But I've just come back from a holiday and have spent loads of money already. So, am trying to refrain from buying. But will I miss out on GREAT deals? But I guess I shouldn't worry too much as I can always get great discount coupons on CouponChief!

As school will be starting soon, I should stock up on gear for the boys. I could get a pair of goggles for S1 from Speedo at 50% off! Also need black leather shoes for the boys. I did get a pair for S2 during the holidays. But S1 didn't buy one. So, perhaps I could use a discount coupon for Payless ShoeSource. There's a 30% off "Back to School" deal.

And as for school bags, there's also a FREE Shipping offer on eBags as part of their "Back to School" deals too!


Rocking Blogger Award cum Charity Meme


Waaaa....Another Rocking' Girl Blogger Award!!! This time from Stay-at-home-Mum.

Thank Q! Thank Q!

Mmmmm.. I MUST really really ROCK! Everybody Rock! Let's Rock! Rock around the Clock, tonight!!!!!! YAY...babe...

But this award is not only for fun...it comes with a charity tag.... in aid of an orphanage called Darul Izzah Orphanage.

For each of this meme completed (at least 17 out of the 27 sentences below), generous Idham will donate RM127.00 to the Orphanage, provided it's done by 26 Aug.

So, without further ado, here's my contribution of all 27 sentences:

1. A person is only as good as...he wants to be.
2. Friendship is always... listening and being there for them.
3. To love is to....forgive.
4. Money makes me... want to pay all my loans.
5. I miss...working (a little bit).
6. My way of saying I care is... doing things even if I don't feel like it.
7. I try to spread love and happiness...whenever I am conscious of their importance.
8. Pick the flowers when... the guests are coming!
9. To love someone is... give without expecting to receive.
10. Beauty is... in the eyes of the beholder.
11. When I was thirteen, what I remember the most was...the "hair" jokes that were going around in school.
12. When I was twenty one, I remember... nothing much.
13. I am most happy... when I see my loved ones happy.
14. Nothing makes me happier than... seeing things going according to plan.
15. If I can change one thing... I would have listened more and talked less.
16. If smiles were...medicine, life would be great!
17. Wouldn't it be nice if we could... have peace, happiness and contentment all the time.
18. If you want to have... success, you must work hard.
19. Money is not everything but... without money, many things would not be possible.
20. The most touching moments I have experienced is...when a kind word or a hug is expressed when needed but not asked.
21. I smile when...I am happy.
22. When I am happy...I smile :-).
23. If only I don't have... any negative thoughts, I would be a better person.
24. The best thing I did yesterday was... enjoying baby back ribs with my family at Tony Roma's.
25. If I ever write a book, I will give it this title..."Chinese Wedding Customs" or something like that.
26. One thing I must do before I die... parachute down from a plane.
27. Doing this meme, I feel like... having to use a bit of my brain :-).

So what I am doing now is to pass on the tag and charity meme to the real rockers:
Very Vera
WMD

Digital Framez

{Sponsored Post}

My mom's house has a grand piano in the living room. Two of my younger sisters used to play, but now one is living in the UK and the other in Australia. What has the grand piano become?? Well, it has become a stand for framed photographs of all the grandsons! Soon, the whole grand piano will be filled with photo frames! How can proud grandma display all the various pictures of her grandsons without taking up more space on the piano? By using a few digital photo frames, of course! We could have a range of sizes to create a more dramatic effect. All that needs to be done is to insert the memory card into the digital frame, and the LCD will display all the cute digital photos of the grandsons! And I know DigitalFramez Australia is offering a FREE 256 MB Memory card with every 10 inch frame order. That's a great deal! Don't you think? Other sizes available are 7", 8" and 9" frames. Think I will also get one for my own home!

Terrrible...Terrible..

It's Noon time on Sunday... Just had Bak Pau with Tau Yue Bak (Hokkien Delicacy..could have taken a photo but H was like "I am very hungry lah..." so we makan all liow)..and what are we doing after a heavy lunch??? H and I are going to continue with pou-tai (direct translation is 'boil tape' but these days mana ada tapes? All DVDs liow... ), S1 is playing his PS2 and S2 is at the PC playing some online Dragon game. We are one TERRIBLE LAZY Family. Just now when H asked the kids to come down for lunch, S1 was like "err...where are we going to eat? I don't want to go!" and then H told him that we are just eating at home...and you know what he said "Phew!!! I thought we were going out!!"

Anyway, H and I are watching this HK TVB series titled "Heart of Greed"...or as my mom calls the show "mai pau-yue" show...hehehe.. This show started out to be quite funny... and now the plot thickens and everybody is getting more more and "hakk yann chang"... We sooo gila that we watched till 3.30 am the night before, and 1.30 am last night... So, naturally woke up at 11 am in the morning...HEHEHHE...

Friday, August 03, 2007

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, S1!

TODAY is S1's actual birthday. He turns 10!!!

Wa.... my little baby sooooo big boy liow! Where did we go for dinner?? Supposed to pick H up from office and then go to Planet Hollywood. But H called about 4 pm and said that there was a demo in town and the traffic was really really bad...blah blah blah. So, we (as in boys and I) ended up having dinner at Pizza Hut (what to do?? S1 enjoys Pizza at Pizza Hut!) and tapau-ing KFC for H. He took a taxi home instead of having the driver jam all the way to town to pick him up. Wanted to get a cake for S1 and he said "No need"! So...no cake blowing wor.. But I supposed that's okay lah...since he's had a party here and back in KL...so, had two birthday cakes liow...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, S1!!!

Back Home

Yup! Yup! Yup!

Got home this Wednesday...after 3 weeks + 1 day in Malaysia. Basically, have been sleeping, eating and bumming around during this time. Would my routine of sleeping, eating and bumming around change since I am back home??? Errrrr.... I don't think so lor... Heheheh... with boys still on their Summer Holidays, I don't really have to wake up early...so SLEEP till "dit thau chio kar cherng" (sleep until sun shines on the butt)!!! Hahaha...

Monday, July 30, 2007

EAT! EAT! EAT!

Waa.....These few days like EAT non-stop!!! Let me recall... Friday Nite, we had seafood at Pantai Seafood (think that's what's it's called) in the area near Sungai Ara (Near BU 11). Had crabs in chilli sauce, soft shell crabs in salted egg yolk, prawns, fish, mantis prawn...Saturday Nite, we went to Loong Foong Seafood in Paramount, and TOday, we went to Oriental Pavillion at Jaya 33 for Dim Sum, and then to Mizi Steamboat in Puchong for Dinner. Really ciak ciak ciak NON-stop! Looked at myself in the mirror this morning...wah...my face like sooooooooo PUI already. Really need to "kiam ciak" lah... :-(

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Innovative Tutor

{Sponsored Post}

Had coffee with two girlfriends today (I know that I seem to eat and drink alot lately! ) and the hot topic of discussion was our boys' education. Yes, between the three of us, we have 8 boys! Anyway, my girlfriend was concerned about the spoon-feeding, rote-learning of the local system; whether such a system would stifle the children's development in a global society. Stopping short of transferring the kids to an international school, perhaps the next best thing would be to supplement the current syllabus with something more exciting from an innovative tutor. One that would be able to entice the natural curiosity of children, allowing them to explore, experiment and ask questions whenever they wished.



Drying Up...

Have to say that the opps for blogging for money are getting less these days...for me that is. Most of the opps on PPP exclude Blogspot. Sometimes, I see that there are a total of 110 opps, but the qualified ones are only like 10 or less. And most of these opps are on "looking for romance" etc... Aiya... So sad leh... And then the PayU2Blog also these days only like 1 assignment per week, as compared to the initial 10 in the first week. Smorty also NO opps... So, guessed no pocket money for me!!!! *SIGH* Some more come back to KL only spend spend spend!!!! Hopefully the consultancy thingy will bear some fruit!!!

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Misha's Mummy Very Clever!!!

I have to write this!!! Misha's Mummy is very clever leh.... We have NEVER met, and I don't know how....she could identify me and my boys at 1Utama on Friday. Took boys there to use up our MPH vouchers....and there was an exhibition on Janome Sewing Machines, just outside of MPH. There was a demo, and I was explaining to my boys about the programmable sewing machines. I don't think I was that LOUD or screaming at my kids.... How did she know that it was me leh?????? I am soooooo easily identifiable meh?? SO, I think this Misha's Mummy got six sense lah!!!!! How come never come and ask me "Are You Nomadic Mom?"....We could have gone to DELICIOUS and eat some scones with cream and jam!!! Aiya...what could be worst?? If it's not me, then the woman would just say "chee sin" only ma...haaaahehheeehhhee

So...want to meet at 1Utama next week???? DELICIOUS it must!

Adult Diapers!

Most people would think that they would be in the ripe old age of ninety before they require incontinence supplies. On the contrary, you would be surprised how handy these would be when your belly acts up after the hot curry meal that you had for dinner! I mean life still goes on, even if you are suffering from diarrhea! Kids still need to be picked up from school, bills to be paid, groceries to be bought etc etc. You wouldn't want to be caught dead with a yucky smelly stain on your pants. Would you?

Friday, July 27, 2007

Soooooo Ulu, meh???

I had lunch with one of my ex-colleagues yesterday, and then popped into the office to say my Hellos to everyone, and to collect a tax letter from HRD. While waiting for my letter, small talk ensued... I donno why, but people must think that my life must be quite sad and miserable over in the third world country...

....that my kids don't go to school, and are home-schooled! WHY would anyone think that? Would I even go to a country where my kids have NO proper education??? Of course, then I have to say that they go to the BRITISH school lah....

....that I am grounded in my house because I don't drive there! Aiyo..... Again, I have to say I have a driver...

I am soooooo "cham" looking meh??? BLECH....

Reading Tutors

{Sponsored Post}

Boys and I were at the bookshop this afternoon, and S2 was reviewing a "Book of Knowledge" at the counter, and was reading out loud. A lady overheard his reading and commented that he could read rather well for his age. I have to say that the reading tutors had helped to improve his reading tremendously!

Time Flies...

Not to say that I am feeling nostalgic or what... but my little cousin whom I used to accompany to feed the ducks (a favorite pastime of ours when I was living in UK) when she was just a toddler is turning 20 this year! Somehow, in the back of my mind, I still think that she's a little girl... but this little girl has just completed her first year at Oxford University... Waaaaaaa... Very clever girl hor?? But she doesn't want to remain there wor... So, will transfer out to another uni when new term starts.

Anyway, my dad very bad leh... kept asking her to "SPEAK PROPER ENGLISH!". .... Heehee...cause she speaks with the proper British accent.... aiya..of course lah, she's born there and she's been in boarding schools since 12 years old wor... If she speaks our MALAYSIAN English, then something is very very wrong!

Well,...my older son also ten this year.... don't want to say old also cannot!!!

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

20 YEARS!!

20 Years AGO, on this day.. H and I started to "pak-tor".... :-) waaaaa...time flies wor....

I was going through some old photos... we looked sooooooooo young then!!!

Okay lah..better go to bed now.. so sleepy liow...

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Rockin' Girl Blogger


Kekekeke.... Laundryamah voted me wor...Not because I am a cool looking gal, but because she said I always ROCK in the Yeeeeeee Haaaaaaaar sense.. Kekekeke... velly malu ler... Like I some GILA woman like that. No lah.. Seriously, I am a very naive goody-goody girl lah...

Healy
also voted me wor.... heheheh.. I become famous or not?????

Who can I vote? Most blogger I know also already ROCKING!!! WHo else will ROCK?????

DIY Stuff

{Sponsored Post}

I know this sounds strange, but I am into DIY. I'm normally the one that will buy the tool box, screws and stuff! I'm the one that hammers the hooks onto the walls to hang the paintings. I'm the one that actually sand our outdoor teak table, and then oil it. Honest! I'm also quite a neat freak, and I would love to have some RED-colored metallic custom cabinets to store all my DIY stuff! And perhaps a workbench for some craft work too!

Consulting Job??

Got a call from my ex-boss this evening. When I saw the caller ID, I was a bit weary... wondering what could he want? Well, turns out that the company that he part owns may want to use my expertise in wastewater/water treatment in the Third World Country that I am currently residing. Told me to work out some consulting rates, and how they can pay me.... and working permits and such. Rates and payment may be quite easy to work out...but permits may be a little trickier. I cannot be seen OUTRIGHT working as my residence permit prohibits it. And such part-time work somehow doesn't warrant me going through all the RED tape to get a work permit, right? I think have to ask H to find out a little bit on this...

Will see what the job entails....got to wait for the call..... But from I hear from my ex-boss is site survey and basically ask all the right questions, blah blah blah...But the design and actual work will be done by the people over in Singapore. Then I look-see the final proposal/design when they are done. Think it sounds alright... See lah...

Mmm...HOW much should I charge per hour???? Any ideas??
Lilypie 6th to 18th Ticker
Lilypie 6th to 18th Ticker