Bright Lights are Needed!

What type of bathroom lights do you have?

Mine looks something like this-->

I'm lucky that my rented home has bright lights for the bathroom. Lighting in the bathroom is very important. I need the bright lights to see every single pore on my face so that I can extract them as part of my weekly ritual. As I don't have a dressing table, I do my minimal make-up under these bright lights too!

Of Dreams and Such...

Every kid has a dream of some sort...

I must be one of the most horrible mom in the world. My constant stance on REALITY may be a little too harsh for my kids???

Well...you see... yesterday (Tuesday) as the boys were getting dressed for school, S2 mentioned that next term, he'll want to choose something other than Tae-Kwon-do as his Wednesday after-school activity. He remarked "my soccer is very bad. I want to improve so that I can play for Manchester (United)". And immediately I answered "Aiya.... even if you play very well also you won't be able to play for Manchester United lah!!!". S1 then interjected with "Mommy! Why you spoil people's dream like that one???"....Oooooops!! Is that a case of my ME & MY BIG MOUTH??

Same thing with S1....says he wants to be a spy with CIA... Well, in reality, he will never be able to work for the CIA. So, it's my job to tell him that, right??? Anyway, he has asked me to check out schools/camps for spy-training.
And search I did!

There are quite a few actually, but most are in the US, with one in NSW, Australia. UK has one that is only 3 hours long, which would not be shiok enough. The one is Australia operates during their summer which the recent schedule shows to be towards end-January 2008. This one, timing is not right for S1 as school starts on the 7th of January. Guessed we'll have to rely on the ones in the States. H said that we can bank S1 into the camp, tour for that one week and then come pick him up. So...perhaps we'll plan for this next Summer. As for S2, either he'll tag along with us, or we'll bank him into a different camp. The spy-camp unfortunately is for kids about 10 years old...so S2 does not qualify....

Telephone Systems for Businesses

Can you run a business without telephones?

The answer is NO.

Correct?

I am sure some would argue that the electronic mail (or more popularly known as email) can be used to communicate with clients and suppliers. But do you think that is enough? I think NOT.

I do not deny that email is a great communication tool. However, some things still needs to be sorted out over the telephone. Yup! The good 'ole communication tool that was invented by Alexander Graham Bell in the late 19th century. The telephone has come a long way since. These days, technology for telephone systems range from conventional Plain Old Telephone System (POTs) to Voice over IP (VoIP) capabilities. 115

To run a successful and seamless business, you want to be assured of an efficient and economical telephone system. You certainly do not want to be bogged-down by complicated systems that are a hassle more than a help, especially if you are just starting out a small business. You want to concentrate on other more important issues. You need a straighforward, user-friendly telephone system that can help you tap on the most economical telephone technology, and in most cases, would be the VoIP technology. Know which maker uses the latest VoIP technology?

Talkswitch! It's a real great phone system for small businesses, and Neobits is having some current great offers! Neobits also offers other brands of phone systems designed for businesses between 2 and 250 users; such asAvaya, Panasonic, NEC, Allworx, Epygi and much more. Their 3,000 customers in the US is proof of their sought-after services.

Importance of Insurance

My girlfriends and I get-together at least once-a-week. During one of our usual chats over coffee, "sudden death" became one of our discussion topics. There was a case whereby a healthy and fit 30-something executive suddenly collapsed and died leaving a stay-at-home wife with two children. Overnight, her life changed forever. Not only she had to deal with the sudden death of her spouse, she had to start fending for herself and her two young children. Fortunately, her spouse did have a term life insurance, that would at least preserve some financial stabilty for some period of time. Otherwise, life would be mighty hard!

H's Pressie

Remember this??

It's S1's purchase from Bali for his dad. :-) As per my previous post, some friends are visiting us for a few days, and so we took them to the Safari Park yesterday. Just as we were about to leave the house, I think S1 asked H why he didn't wear his pressie. H must have said that he didn't want to wear it cause I heard S1 say something like "you are wasting money!". The next thing I knew was that H went up to change into the shirt. When I saw him, I really did burst out laughing. My thick-skinned H remarked "Don't laugh. I am one of those few ones that can carry this kind of look!".... Our guests were like nodding and saying "Yeah. Yeah."!!

Yeah. Right. :-P

P/S Our guests left today (they arrived on Friday), but looks like they won't be visiting again! Not that we were bad hosts but think they just weren't used to the BAD traffic jams in this country.

My Xmas Tree is UP!

We put up our tree last Sunday...waited for S1 to come home from his Bali Trip first. H fixed it up, and when I tested out the lights, they weren't working. Thus, H and I drove out to the mall to buy a new set of lights. Didn't want to wait another day. Put up the lights and then the ribbons. As usual, boys hung the ornaments. Still the same GOLD ornaments that we had since we lived in Singapore...before S2 was born. So, the tree and the ornaments are older than S2!

Looks like I could do with some more ornaments! :-)
Yeah...NO Xmas Pressies under the Tree :-(

Also put up the STAR lights that I bought from IKEA many years back. But this is the first time that I had used them. Nice? Bought some carved wooden snowman from the bazaar. Cute, huh??

Are you ??

......One of those women who spends hours in the bathroom picking on your blackheads? Doing something that you know that you shouldn't but still do. So, are you?? Come on... be honest. Okay. I admit I am one of the guilty ones! *Gulp* My eyes would light up when I see these makeup mirrors in hotel bathrooms. They are really really great! You could extend them to suit your position, and with standard magnification, you can see every single pore on your nose!! What is even better is some models come with in-built lighting!!! Just the very mirror that every woman needs!!

Will cute novelty details work??

I've been told by some of H's coworkers that H can be quite intimidating at work....especially so when he's waiting for month-end reports. And recently, he was advised by the Human Resources Department to be friendlier to staff. I wonder if he is a real OGRE at work!! Perhaps I should get him some cute novelty silver cufflinks such as those illustrated below. Maybe such whimsical designs would tone down H's perceived aggressive and fierce persona. What do you think? Will they work?

Friends Visiting...

Finally! We have another set of friends visiting us after one year. Yup! The last time we had friends over from Malaysia was one year ago. Somehow...nobody wants to visit us in this 3rd World Country. Even my parents are not visiting as often as when we lived in Bangkok.

Anyway, family of 4 arrived yesterday... Took them 1 1/4 hours from the airport. I thought that was quite good considering it was peak traffic. When I saw them at the door (I didn't go to the airport. Sent the driver only)...they were lik mega-exhausted from the jams. :-)

Took them to a restaurant named Payon. Went there because it was close to our house, and it was local food. Thought we should always bring our guest to try the local food on the first day. Anyway, food was okay lah... but because it had rained before, the grounds were abit soggy. Otherwise, it would be quite a nice place... The restaurant had a landscaped garden, with koi ponds and was lit with torches around the premises. So, on a normal day...the ambience would be better.

Supposed to bring the kids to watch dolphins and sealions perform today.....but it rained soooooo heavily that I took them shopping instead. The kids complained of course... but what to do? (My boys didn't come as they have school).... Went to Long Beach Seafood Restaurant (Yup! The same one as the one in Singapore) for dinner.... H "kik lau" me, so didn't enjoy my dinner that much. :-( Long story...

Gonna go to the Safari Park again tomorrow. Setting off at 7.30 am, as driver says that it will take 1 1/2 hours to reach the place...and it opens at 9 am. Early start, hopefully, early ending and early return home. The guests want to visit the spa in the evening tomorrow.

Traditional Custom

Did you know that there is a traditional Chinese custom of giving gold chains and other gold jewelry to brides, and one-month old babies? This custom has been practiced in my family for many generations, and is still going on today. Somehow, the Chinese view GOLD as a must, and I received quite a number of gold chains from my relatives when I got married. Unfortunately, the designs were rather old-fashioned, and not something that I would wear. Well, my sister will be tying the knot soon, and I guessed she'll be receiving some gold jewelry too. Luckily for her, there are beautifully crafted and stylish gold chains available these days.

Luxury Homes

Went to a Christmas Party for both parents and teachers of S1's class yesterday. It was hosted by one of the moms, and I have to say that the house is a luxury home that is an envy to all. I especially liked the spacious granite-top designer kitchen, and the beautiful landscaped pool area. The house is located in an enclosed compound surrounded by one of the top golf courses in the city. Houses in this vicinity are definitely categorized as luxury real estate, and are really sought after by many, both locals and expats. If we could afford the rent, I would want to live there too!

Year 6 Xmas Dinner

Went to S1's Year 6 Parent-Teacher dinner at one of the parent's house yesterday. Or should I say mansion?? Anyway, it was a combined dinner of all four classes. Not many parents turned up. From S1's class, only the parent/s of five students came. Quite low ....considering the class has 23 kids. Anyway, it was nice meeting the teachers in an informal way. Didn't realise that S1's teacher was soooooooo tall until yesterday. Even with my 2 1/2 inch heels, I couldn't reach his shoulders! And mind you, I am about 5 feet 6 inches tall!!! Yes.. still think he is a fairly good-looking chap! Hahaaha.. Did get goodbye pecks on both my cheeks! Hahahah... Cheap thrill!!

Anyway, had quite a good chat with T's parents. H didn't go as he was still not well. Don't know how we got to the topic of husbands and minor wives etc etc, and that how local ladies are in abundance to swoon over expat men...blah blah blah.. but then there was a case whereby one of the top-level expat wife of T's dad's company ran away with her personal trainer. Apparently, it was a SHOCK to the men in the company....because they thought it was "their world with all the local gals flocking". So this was a wake-up call for them. Then there was another case, whereby a Belgium lady left her hubby whom she have had four children, to go live with a stall-holder, and she was happy hawking! Yes..more gossips as we gulp more wine! :-)

My New Toy....

Presenting my NEW Toy...... Taaa Daaaaaaaa.....

Yup! A new digital camera...a Canon Ixus 950 IS.

Came home from my brunch at a friend's house, and H was already home (sick maaaa...), and he said "go and bring me my history book .... " So...I be kind and went over to fetch his history book since he is ill. I was like "which one? so many titles".... then he said "and bring your camera over too!". Well...he didn't really want to read...just wanted me to find my Pressie. :-D

"Is it my early Xmas Pressie?", I asked. You know what was his reply? "No. It's a pressie for XXXXX!" Hahahahhahah...and then as I was playing with my new toy, and was taking some random pix, he gave me this really hamsap face!!! hahaha...but NO lah.. I had to go out and buy groceries. Nothing in the fridge already leh!!! NO JOY for H... Hehehehehhe... perhaps tonight????

Great Gift Baskets for Men!!!!

CHRISTMAS is only 3 weeks away!
And I have yet to buy a single Xmas gift. I know. I know. I am a terrible procrastinator. Will really have to start pronto. Otherwise, I am sure to be caught by the massive jams at the malls. To simplify things, perhaps I should just order the gifts online. That way, I don't have to fight with fellow-shoppers over discounted items or for a space in the queue. I've been browsing at Gourmet Gift Baskets, and they sure do have lovely gift baskets for all your loved ones. I especially like their gift baskets for men. Think I would get H the "Hitting The Range™ - Golf Gift Basket". Not only it has the necessary golf tees and practice balls, it comes with yummy gourmet snacks that I know H would enjoy. And for my dad...what else but the delicious "Ice Cream Smorgasbord™ - Ice Cream Gift Basket". Dad absolutely luuuuuurves ice-cream!!!

S1 back from Bali...

S1's flight was to arrive at 1.50 PM on Friday, 30th November... I was in school for S2's Egyptian Day, so had to zooooom off from school to the airport.

Oh....Oh... Before I continue about my S1... I want to tell you about Ms. Boobies. Remember her in my previous post? Well...she was in school on Friday too. Well, I saw her coming in but I ignored her and con tinue talking to some other moms. If she can snub me. I can too! Well, Ms. Boobies this time, did expose her boobies and thighs again. Her cleavage was about 3 inches exposed. Not that sort of faint lined ones...but the deep deep type of cleavage. I was talking to another mom, J...and she said that she doesn't like her either. Neither does her husband. Funnily, J said that this Ms.Boobies somehow wears quite "normal" outside of school. She'll be in a simple T-shirt or whatever, but in school...her tops are waaaaaay down, and the skirts are waaaaay up, with high high heels. Met another local mom who didn't like her too... Looks like she doesn't really have that many friends at school. Naturally, she continued to be the topic at our coffee session later. One joke that came up about why S2's teacher didn't turn up for the Xmas Dinner was because his wife didn't allow it....shouting "You are NOT going to the dinner with Ms. Boobies!!!! Hahahah...Yes. Us women can be quite terrible b!t@hes!!!! kekekekek

Anyway.... initially, my driver said that it'll take 1 hour and 45 minutes from school to the airport...but after my coffee with the gals, he said that he had discussed with the other drivers, and there is a shorter and more direct route. So..it actually took us only about an hour. Just as well, as the plane arrived about 20 minutes earlier. But ...this nomadicmom was busy chatting with another mom at the WRONG gate... By the time we realised, most of the kids already gone. hehhehe... But we did pick up our precious sons. :-)

S1 of course had a whale of a time. He looked sooooooo grown-up as he told me his days in Bali. And he is really really sweet too. He bought gifts for me, his dad and brother with the shopping money I gave him. When I asked him what he bought for himself..he said he didn't have enough money. I should really give him a lot of credit to actually buy stuff for us rather than himself.

What he bought...

Necklace for me..

(okay..this one I think I could wear with my green top lah...I think)

Necklace and Bracelet

(Errrr...this one,... I don't know. Think I will look like siow char boh(mad woman) if I wear... Before I saw it, S1 asked "do you have any orange dress? I bought you necklace and bracelet to go with your orange dress"... When I told him I don't know when I can wear this set, he just said "Aiya.... wear it when you go to Bali lah")

Very Canggih Shirt for his Dad

(When H saw it, he was like "Wah-lau !!!!"....hahahahahahah)

Equally Shocking Shirt and Shorts for S2

Okay...not the nicest of stuff..BUT BUT... IT is the

THOUGHT THAT COUNTS!!!!

My sweet and wonderful S1....

:-D

Market Research a Must

Few friends of mine have been saying that we should start a small business here....rather than idling our lives away. The idea sounds great. But what business can we embark on? One that is interesting enough to keep us motivated, can earn us the moolah, as well as allow us to work on a part-time basis? On top of that, effective and extensive market research needs to be conducted for our business to be successful. For example, initially...I had an idea of starting up a local English Language magazine for kids here. But market research shows that the fluency of this language is rather low in the general population, and such a magazine would not be viable at all. So that idea was scrapped. Yeah. I know...what a bummer!

Year 3 Egyptian Day

Friday, 30th November - Egyptian Day for the Year 3s.

The kids in Year 3 have been learning about Ancient Egypt for Humanities this term. They learnt how ancient Egypt is, how they live, etc. Kids also learnt to write their names in hieroglyphics. So to finish off the term, they had an Egyptian Day at school, and kids are supposed to wear their Egyptian costume and bring in party food.

I knew about the costumes, as we were given illustrations of the costumes about a month back. Boys' costumes are basically just a white skirt which my friend got a tailor to sew up a bunch. Cost about USD 3.50 each. Kidsmade their own jewelled collars at school. What I didn't know about was the Party Food part...as lately, S2 has been quite bad in giving me messages from school.

So, as I woke him up at 6.10 am to get ready for school, he bleary-eyed said "Mom. I have to bring sandwiches to school today!". "NOW only you tell your mother??" said H. And then I added "yeah... where am I going to find bread and stuff to make sandwiches at this hour?". "Mom. No need sandwiches. Any savoury"..... Geezzzzzz. Certainly didn't give me alot of time. What do I do? I was gonna go to school to see how cute he looked in his costume...so, I popped by into a bakery to buy some buns on my way to school as the Party Food.

When I got into school, the kids were all changed into their Egyptian costumes...and getting their make-up done. S2 had blue and black eye-shadow for his eyes. He looked really cute. The teachers were also all dressed in their Egyptian garb, with the dark-drawn eyes too.

Some kids having their make-up done.

Skinny S2 getting up from the chair after doing his make-up.

See his skinny ribs?????

Kids in their Classroom.

They actually addressed their teacher as "Pharoah" on this day. Hahahah..so cute!

Ancient Egypt Board in the Year 3 Area

Jars for the Pharoah's Organs?

Another Life-Size Egyptian Prop...

The Cartoonist (alamak...cannot remember his name) - the Scandinavian guy who has a program on Nicklelodean Channel.... was in school on this day too.... to demo his cartoon-drawing skills, and to promote his books. Naturally, all the kids wanted to buy his books. S2 had been bugging me for the last couple of days for USD 8 to buy one of his books. But since I was in school, I bought three... bought the one on Monsters, Wild Animals and Robots. Didn't buy the one on cows though. This kiasu mom also joined the queue to get him to autograph the books lah.

Yes...that is my skinny S2 again...

Shopper Discounts & Rewards

Being a parent to two school-going children, there is the yearly ritual of purchasing back-to-school items. I am sure many parents out there can relate to the stress of scurrying from one retailer to another to stock-up on the necessary supplies, not to mention the $$$ that is involved. Perhaps I should be more techno-savvy and shop online. That would certainly save lots of time. Great savings can be had too.....with Shopper Discounts & Rewards provided by webloyalty. It is a subscription service that gives back online rebates and discounts at more than 500 online sites. Don't you think it would be a real help to busy mommies like you and I?

Oasis in A Desert...

This polluted and traffic-locked city never fails to amaze me!


Perhaps that is why I have not gone GILA (insane) :-D


I mean in the middle of all the noise, rubbish, chaos in the city, you will find a haven that takes you away from all the mess. Really like an oasis in the middle of a desert.


I went to a restaurant in town together with two friends . You can hardly SEE the little entrance to this restaurant, called Huize Trivelli. But once you enter the simple entryway....lo and behold, it's a different place altogether. It's a "heritage" restaurant...thus the antique-qy decor.

View out of the Window

(that's not rain...it's part of the water feature)

There's also an outdoor sitting area...but we sat inside the air-conditioned space, Of course!

Real Antiques?

Outdoor Lighting Needed!

Everytime I look out to my garden and pool, I think to myself "looks good...but would be better with some lighting to enhance certain features of the garden". But there is a problem with adding additional lighting; as there is no electrical power supply out there. It would be great if I could get my hands on some solar-powered light fixtures. This way, I could have the look I want without worrying about electrical cabling nor safety issues.

Colon Cleansing?

It has been a few years since I first heard of the term colon cleansing, and it does bring a thought of horror. The colon cleansing that I know of involved inserting a tube through the anal cavity, and pumping the colon with a huge amount of water to flush out stubborn waste that have been clinging onto the colon walls. It is a means of detoxifying the body. Thank goodness that there are alternative ways of colon cleansing these days. Did you know that an effective colon cleanse can be achieved by way of herbal supplements? This is certainly a better option for me than sticking tubes up my you-know-what!!

New York Movers

I wonder if there is anyone out there who loves moving from one place to another...be it within the same city or beyond. I for one, don't. The main headache for me is sorting out all the wants and want-nots, and then packing certain personal items myself. Some would say that I asked for it. The stress, I mean. I could easily leave ALL the packing to the professional movers. But somehow, I just can't keep my hands off. Take my advice. Don't be like me. Let the professional movers do all the hard work for you. And if you are in New York, I just know the right New York movers that can help you heaps.

Really Scary!!

This is a real incident that involved H's colleague.....an American guy. He went out partying with another friend...and this friend left first. And then he somehow got drugged to the max. He was soooooooo zonked out that H had to get the hotel fellas to open his room door, and shook him up. He doesn't even know how he got back to the hotel.

This Americano was supposed to meet up with a client of Saturday night, together with H. He didn't turn up. Later, H got a call from Americano's driver who was rather worried about his boss. Apparently, the driver had been over in the hotel since the night before and have not heard from his boss. Repeated calls to Americano's handphone was not possible, and to the room was unanswered. H then went to the hotel, and got the front desk to open the door. Americano was found sprawled on his bed.... shook him up, and he was still groggy and dazed. He couldn't even walk properly! Then found out that his wallet, wedding ring and passport were all stolen. He wasn't sure whether he got back to the hotel himself or the "thief" brought him back? It's all a blurr.

I was saying that he was lucky that he woke up with his kidneys still inside him! I mean, you've heard about people getting drugged, and then wake-up in a bathtub of ice, with their kidneys sliced out of their body!

Of course, H also got an earful from me lah... These men...all go out partying at god knows where!!! And his remark was "I am a good boy!". Yeah, right!! As if I believe.... And somemore you know what H's boss told H? "You are good at coming up with stories. You better come up with one for him to tell his wife". See lah.... Even the boss tell H to come up with a story for Americano. Well, his wife flew in on Sunday from Singapore...and apparently, he is in BIG TROUBLE. Sure lah....

Family Fun in Orlando!

Orlando is just the RIGHT place for a family vacation!

Why?

Orlando's theme parks such as Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, Busch Gardens etc etc have all the unique and exciting adventures for kids of all ages...including the big kid in you too! Orlando is not all about theme parks. There's extreme fun such as hand-glidng and sky-diving. If that is too much to stomach, how about a round of golf or a relaxing spa treatment? Orlando has so much to offer that you want to bring grandma and grandpa too! And for maximum family fun, we should all bunk-in together in a 3-bedroom Orlando vacation home, rather than get separated in different wings of a hotel..... Sounds great, huh? I just can't wait for a family fun-filled vacation in Orlando!

Christmas Round the Corner...

Christmas is just round the corner...and that means that most of us will be frantically scouring the malls for the perfect gift for our loved ones. I know that it is the thought that counts, but some brain work still needs to be done. Don't you think? I find that buying gifts for men in my life to be the most challenging. It is just so darn difficult! Perhaps I will get a personalized engraved pen this year. What do you reckon? A good idea?

S1 in Bali liow...

As I am posting this... S1 must be having a whole lot of fun on the beach of Sanur!!

Well...the day had finally arrived for the Year 6 Trip to Bali (wrote a little bit about this some time back). The kids had to meet at 7 am at the airport this morning... so we targetted that we leave our house at about 5.45 am. Had three alarm clocks set to wake us up... hahahaha.. yeah. Abit kiasu there.... :-) But when my first alarm rang at 5.15 am, I was already quite wide awake (slept at 9 pm last night, you see...). Both S1 and S2 were already awake, and bouncing off the walls!!! Told S2 to go back to bed as the school bus would only be here at about 6.45 am. But he insisted on staying up.

S1 will be sharing rooms with 2 of his pals...T and R. Though they get along great, 5 days and 4 nights might make them get on their nerves at the end of the trip! I won't hear from my big baby till I pick him up from the airport on Friday! Nope! Phones are not allowed to be brought along the trip. The teachers felt that the phones would affect the kids. No contact allowed unless it is a REAL EMERGENCY! They have a whole of of activities packed into their trip.... tree-top rope walking, white-water rafting, fun at WaterBom Park, cultural show etc... and yes, the creature comforts in the 5*hotel RIGHT ON the sun-drenched sandy beaches of Sanur! I also want to go...heheheh...BUT NO Parents allowed!!!

Initially, I was to send S1 off at the airport. But H said that he would do it. So...off they went at about 5.50 am. S2 and I had a chat on my bed while waiting for the school bus. Asked him why he didn't sleep-in. And he answered that he wanted to say bye to his brother. Despite their arguments and their fights, he loves his kor-kor very much, and would still miss his kor-kor lah.

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OOOOPPPPSSSS!!!!

*Ring* *Ring*

My phone rang and awoken me at about 8.30 AM.... I picked it up. It was H...

H - Err... I ran into some trouble...

Me - What trouble? (still sort of half asleep)

H - Err.. I came out to buy eggs for the boys' breakfast, and the car went into the drain.

Instantly, I sprang up from the bed!!

Well... we had given the driver the day off... and H drove the car out to the supermarket to get some eggs. As there was a road closure, he took a detour. The road was really really narrow, and somehow the right wheels of the car went into the drain! Had to call the Car Leasing company to sort it out. Tried calling our driver...but that fella turned his phone off!! Geram or not?? Poor H had to wait out in the sun for the car leasing guy, whom eventually turned up about 45 minutes later. He then walked home lor...

When the boys heard the news... one of the boys remarked "daddy tried to avoid a cat?"... I couldn't help laughing and told H that perhaps that he should tell people that he was a hero as he tried to avoid a cute little cat on the road, and that was why the car ended up in the drain! Hahahhaha...

Anyway, we have got a temporary replacement car for our use now.. So no big hiccup...other than leaving daddy with a RED face! heheheheh...

I wonder if the Car Leasing Company is going to BEG both of us NOT to drive anymore!!! Kekekek... Why? With me hitting a motorcyclist last November, and now with the car in the drain!!!

Looking Oh So Refined!

My H would usually put on a set of cufflinks when he dons on a suit for formal functions and meetings with important clients. I have to say that he does look sophisticated and refined when all dressed-up....as opposed to his comfy holey T-shirts worn when at home! He did have a set of beautifully-crafted cufflinks until our driver threw them away by mistake! Well, you see...H took them off in the car, and left them in the 'drinks holder' together with some used-tissues. The driver, thinking that they were 'rubbish', took out the 'drinks holder' and tipped the contents into the garbage bin!!

I don't like her...

Yes. I don't like the BIG Boobs woman!
(See my previous post about this booby woman)

No...not because I am jealous of her big boobs lah.

Well....I told myself that I should be open-minded and not have any preconceived opinions about her...despite of her "inappropriate dressing" at school, and things that I've heard from a friend about her.

H and I went earlier to have our own pre-dinner drinks at the very posh hotel (yeah lah.. these ppl arranged for the Xmas Dinner here...what to do??), and as I walked towards the Ladies, I saw her in the Lounge waiting for us parents. She was dressed 'normally'...in a simple black dress. NO pushed-up NOR exposed Boobies. I thought "okay...she's decent"... We joined her and another set of parents for drinks... and then more parents came. Then she started talking.....

First, she started saying things about how she would have to leave at 9.30 pm as she would need to go to a 'Governor's Dinner' on behalf of her husband who is away... and then she went on about "cheap hotels in Perth at only AUD 290 per night"... and then onto how her daughter is great pals with the franchiser of J.Co Donuts (Yes. The owners of J.Co Donuts sends their daughter to the same school...). I still kept an open mind. Yes I did.

Then we went out to the gardens for our BBQ dinner. I had the 'privilege' to be seated next to her. First thing she asked me was where I was from... and when I said "Malaysia", you could see that her face changed to like "oh.. that's not a fancy place" kind of look. Then asked me if THIS was my FIRST posting. And then she went on to tell me that she has got a house in BALI blah blah blah. And I tried to be courteous and just listened. I donno what she said, and I replied with a simple "perhaps it's the lifestyle" and she just went on with "I've got a 4 million dollar house in Australia, why would I want to make this place my permanent home? And where my house is in Australia, everybody has maids and I don't need the maid/driver lifestyle here"... She told me all this in the first 2 minutes of our conversation! I think that's quite inappropriate in our first meeting, don't you think? I don't know what she blardy wants to achieve by telling me all this. The only thing that she has achieved, is my dislike for her, and being a subject of discussion over coffee with my girlfriends (who are also parents in the class. They didn't attend the dinner last night). And this rude, boastful woman.... in a quick second, ignored me and turned to speak to the other woman on her right. WHAT A BIT@H!!!! The rest of the night..I didn't bother to talk to her, nor she with me.

I wanted to tell her, "if you has a blardy 4 million dollar house in Australia with maids and what-nots, and hate the life here, why the H@ll are you still doing here???" ..

Needless to say, I already called and told one of my girlfriends this morning... and am gonna email one of moms (email because she has moved back to the US) who also thinks that she is a BiT@h with a capital B!!!!

Flat Panel Television...

These days, there is such a wide selection of flat panel television brands and models in the market. Though this is great for consumers, selecting the right TV at the right price from the myriad of choices, may pose a challenge. This is where an online internet research on the various products and prices will come in handy. For example, you are interested in purchasing a mitsubishi HDTV but you don't know which model or size. Just get onto www.krillion.com; look at the different models and specifications. Ponder. Compare prices. And when you are ready to make the purchase, Krillion Localization Engine can provide the location of the nearest store for you to pop by, to see for yourself before you make the final purchase.

I Lose Hands Down la!

THIS is NOT Me!!!
Don't misunderstand!!!!

But how to fight with this kind of cleavage????

You see... I was at a Farewell Brunch this morning (yes...another friend leaving to return to Malaysia...) and the button on my top kept popping out, and my gal pals said that I want to get ready to "fight" with the Class Mom (Class representative) tonight at the Class Xmas Dinner!

Well... the Class Mom of S2's class has really really distinct ASSETS, and she is definitely NOT afraid to flaunt them at School. Yup! You heard me right. She would be wearing tops which would enhance her ASSETS and draw attention to them. No joke..hers are like the picture above, and she would wear tops this LOW in school. Otherwise, how would we know leh?? Also, she would also wear skirts that are really really short to show-off her shapely legs. I agree with "if you got it, flaunt it"...BUT in school??????? Somehow, that doesn't seem to be appropriate lor...

Back to the issue of ASSETS..... I LOSE HANDS DOWN LAH!!!! Am nooooo where near!!!!!

But as some say...."anything more than a handful is a WASTE!" kekekekekekeek (Am I just saying that because I am jealous???) kekekekek

Oops....Forgot Liow...

So taii-thau-har (big prawn head??) ....totally forgot about our 11th Wedding Anniversary! Hee hee... I only remembered yesterday and then texted H with a "I am soooooo upset! Where is my bouquet of flowers? Where is my romantic dinner for two? How could you forget our anniversary?"
And then of course he immediately called me back lah... and said "you also forgot lah....otherwise you would have given me h@ll last night!"...kekeke...he was right! I would have given him h@ll earlier if I had remembered! :-)
Anyway, told him that we'll go to Ritz Carlton this Sunday for the Jazz Brunch with the boys instead lah.
Did you know that 11th Wedding Anniversary is known as the "Steel Anniversary"? So not nice leh... At least next year, will be "Silk" which sounds so much nicer than "Steel"! The following year would be "Lace"....followed by "Ivory" and "Crystal"...

Niche Market

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What happened to my Golf Kakis???

Supposed to go to the Golf course tomorrow for another round of game. 8.00 AM Tee-Off booked for a full flight of four....and then what happened?

• Kaki No. 1 decided to fly off to Singapore...because afraid of ??? possible violence against her family, whilst hubby away?????!?!?! Donno... some long story...but think fear is UNFOUNDED lah. When I told H..he said "Kiasu Singaporeans". (Sorry to Singaporeans out there...but it is kinda true lor...) When I told another of my Golf Kaki No.3 (a local), she was major confused as why Golf Kaki No. 1 had to leave so abrubtly! So...two kids also ponteng sekolah (skipped school).
• Kaki No. 2 decided not to play because her hand still aching from the last round, which was about two weeks back.
• And then it was just me and Golf Kaki No. 3. Then she said she is coughing like NO tomorrow and getting worse, so also want to cancel...

So...That's the story of how all my golf kakis jilted me!!!! *Bleah...*

An Equipped Cave!

Do you have a CAVE in your house? One that your caveman of a hubby can retreat to when he comes home from a hard day's work? Well, I do. It is quite well-equipped for the modern day caveman. Other than the necessary air-conditioning and sofa, there's a TV, DVD player and complete stereo system. The only thing that is missing is a stereo cabinet! Yup! You heard me right. My caveman made-do with using filled-up removal boxes. Guessed it is time to shop for one.

Contemporary-Styled Home

The other day, we were invited to H's colleague's home for after-dinner drinks. From the exterior, the house looks quite drab...but once through the front doors,...WOW! It was one of the nicest, and most tastefully furnished homes that I've seen. The open-concept living/dining area is about thrice the size of my living room! The furniture and lighting were a contemporary style, and the focal point in the huge room, was of course her 42 inch LCD TV which suited the decor to a T! H was naturally gawking at the TV, while I was admiring her tropical terrace by the swimming pool. That night, H kept asking...do you want to move???

Please don't steal....

.......Okay STEAL is maybe tooooo strong a word. BUT.....BUT......don't you just hate it when the kids help themselves to your pencils, pens, ruler, eraser, scissors, glue stick, highlighter etc etc etc?? I have made sure that both boys have their own stash of stationery in their bedroom, and also downstairs near the dining table (where they do their homework)... BUT...BUT......They still always NICK by stuff! I just can't seem to get them to STOP! I just bought myself 2 mechanical pencils and they are GONE! Plus the 3 old ones that's in the holder...GONE TOO!

*SIGH*...Very Kik-Simm

Gas REBATES!!!!

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With the current high crude oil prices at above USD 90 per barrel, many consumers are feeling the pinch as they fill their gas tanks. With the increase in pump prices, some would try to minimize the use of their vehicle to a certain extent, by car-pooling, taking public transport, cycling or even walking! Nevertheless, the gas tanks would still need to be filled at times. In order to lessen the "pinch on the wallet", it is a good idea to use Gas Rebate Credit Cards at the pump. Why? Firstly, it is mighty convenient. Secondly, you get cash rebates whenever you fill your tank. Thirdly, you may get reward points that allows gift exchanges! What's more? Many of these credit cards have no subscription fees and are interest-free for 6 months. To see which Gas Rebate Credit Card suits you best, go to CreditCardSearchEngine.com for a comprehensive comparison.

Mandarin...

中文

Met a lady from Beijing some time back, and never did managed to speak to her long, as my Mandarin sucks! Then the other day, after last Tuesday's farewell lunch , I offered to drop her home as she lives about 2 streets away from me. So "terpaksa" converse to her in the car. Although her hubby is caucasian, her English is still not very good. Our conversation was in a mixture of English and Mandarin. Don't know why, but whenever I speak mandarin, my Thai seems to spring out smoothly replacing certain Mandarin words. For example, I like to use "IF" in alot of my sentences, and in Mandarin, it is "lu kuo", right? But I kept on saying "tha", which is Thai. "Tha" comes out so effortlessly that I do not even realise that I've used my words incorrectly. Another example is "ALWAYS". I do not know what is the Mandarin word for this. Again, I used Thai in its place, which is "sem-mer".

Well, she offered to teach me Mandarin. My mandarin must be soooo atrocious that she felt compelled to educate this LEMON! But she nicely put it that I have potential. What was the word she used "piow choon". In my heart, I was thinking.."NO need to teach me lah. Teach my sons, can ar??". Although boys have been going for their mandarin classes at a center twice a week for 1 1/2 hours each time, don't think it is enough. Plus, they absolutely do NOT speak it at home nor at the school. So how like that?? S1 is progressing very sssssloooooowly but S2 is like not progressing at all. *SIGH* Some more, NOT cheap sending them to these classes. But I am adamant that these classes must NOT STOP. This S2's mandarin is really really bad. I screamed at him the other day over his lack of interest in mandarin. Made him cry.... So, how do I encourage more interest in the language?

Penang Bistro

Had a craving for Penang Prawn Mee.... So what do I do? After picking up the boys from T's house, I headed to a restaurant called PENANG BISTRO, that's located about 15 minute's drive (no traffic today...since Sunday! :-P ) from our home. Where is H? Gone golfing with his buddies - that idi@t!

While waiting for our order, boys made Spaceships from the paper placemats....

Our Drinks... The Teh Ping is like 4 times more expensive than in our normal coffee shop. This glass costs about USD 2/-

The expensive Roti Tissue ...@ USD 2/-. Much smaller than the ones you get at Paandi's!!!

My Prawn Mee... Asked for yellow noodle only, they go and bring me beehoon only. Vomit blood or not? But I was sooo "gian ciak" that I didn't bother to ask them to change.

Rare Coins!

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IT would be just wonderful if I stumble upon a stash of rare coins that would make me rich....rich beyond believe! I could be debt-free and have everything my heart desires. But I guessed that this can only be experienced in fantasyland, while I am ZZZZZ. Although in reality I can't have a stash of rare coins, I could still invest in a singular rare coin that would appreciate in value by the time it reaches my grandchildren! Now, where can I find a rare coin that is genuine? At Monaco Rare Coin! It is part of the Monex family of companies, a trusted leader in precious metals investments for nearly 40 years. Monaco's has a wide range of investment-grade coins of the finest quality.

Old Liow...

.... as V used to say.."cheh is part of the over-the-hill gang"..... *sigh* So have to stock up on vitamins and supplements from the pharmacy...plus "Age Defying" Skin cream. :-(
Have to get V to buy Evening Primrose Oil from Down Under...definitely cheaper over there. What's the price in Malaysia? Over here, am paying about RM 1 per 1000mg capsule. Think the "Blood and Skin Cleanser" supplement is doing my horrible problematic feet some justice. It's still not totally healed, but it is more presentable than before. Maybe my STAR TREK allergy treatment is also helping.

Lazy Saturday....

Both boys have just gone over to T's house for afternoon play and sleepover. I have to say that I was really glad to drop them off. Aiyooo...they were driving me nuts in the car! We went to Ah Yat Abalone Restaurant for brunch. Errr...NO. Not to eat sharksfin and abalone...but dim sum only. As today is a Saturday, they open at 11.30 am and we were there at 10.30 am. So where do we kill 1 hour? Can't exactly sit outside for 1 hour, right? So, we went to a new huge mall. Bleah...what a disappointment. Inside sell all sorts of cheapo pasar malam stuff. Even S1 commented "this place looks so nice outside, but inside not so nice!" ....walked few rounds and we left to go back to Ah Yat. Had Char Leong, Fried Loh Pak Kou, Siew Mai, Siew Loong Pau, Wong Suey Kok, Woo Kok, Steam Pai-Kuat, Porridge with Chicken and Pei-tan and Fried Beef Hor-Fun. Boys had Tann tart too. Alamak...after we finished, and paid, we saw a dish of lovely roast pork (siew yoke) being served to the next table. Aiya...too late to order lah. Soooo full already. Today's foods is more of the run-of-the-mill. Next time must only go on Sundays, where there are more specialties that are displayed and cooked out front...just like in Oriental Restaurant in Jaya. As usual, after a full meal - don't want to do anything else liow. But we did drop by to stock-up on our Prison Break, Desperate Housewives, The Unit and House.... :-D
Hee heee... the rest of the day will be spent growing worms in front of the telly...

Liposuction Surgery for Me???

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The other day, I went to a beauty salon for my regular Purifying Facial. As I changed, and got ready to lie down, the beauty therapist piped up with "There's a new liposuction consultation clinic that opened next door. Do you want to go?". My first thing that I wanted to do was to SLAP her! What does she mean by that? Am I THAT overweight? Do I need liposuction, whereby a canula is inserted into by body, breaks my bodily fat apart and then "sucks" it out into a glass jar? I've seen videos of this surgery, and it certainly AIN'T pleasant. If I need any surgery for weight reduction, I would much prefer lap band surgery whereby an adjustable gastric band is positioned on the upper portion of the stomach. This creates a small passageway into the lower part of the stomach. The stomach feels full and satisfied with less intake of food. Thus, one can lose the excess weight. This weight-loss surgery is the least invasive, and does not require cutting, stapling or rerouting of the stomach or intestines. For more information, visit Journey Lite - Specialist in this LAP-BAND® System procedure.

Whinigitis!

This term was coined by LaundryAmah some years back. Or was it LaundryApah?? Anyway, it is a non-curable disease which causes severe Whining. It is thus a chronic condition whereby sufferers whine and whine non-stop! The condition may reduce in severity as sufferer grows-up, but as-mentioned, it is incurable.

Well, as it seems...the intensity of S2's whinigitis have not diminished with time......

Again, this morning over breakfast, he started with his "NOT FAIR. Kor-kor get 5 days of fun..blah blah blah"...same as what he said last night lah. I also lazy to type it out here. I got so fed-up and just snapped back at him "Aiya...It is a school trip. I didn't plan it. The school plan it. If you want to complain, or want an explanation, then go to the primary school office and ask to speak to your principal. Ask him why it is so unfair that Year 6 kids get to go to Bali for 5 days/4 nights. Blah blah blah.." I was quite sien already, then he just answered with a simple "OKAY".

Alamak! Why didn't I think about that yesterday??

And this H also very bad lah... He came home and purposely say "How come it is so unfair that your kor-kor gets to go to a 5 day/4 night Bali Trip, and he can have all the fun and no school work?". This of course started the whole ritual of "Yeah. Sooooo NOT FAIR. Blah blah blah".

*Sigh*

Anyway, S2 WILL get to go on a school trip next term, albeit for only 2 days/1 night. I think if it was any longer, the teachers and chaperone will go crazy taking care of about 100 kids of 7/8 years of age! The school starts off with Sleepover in the school for Years 1 and 2, and then proceed with an overnight trip to a nearby resort for Year 3. Year 4 and Year 5 would both be a 3 days/2 night trip. And for Year 6 - a 5 days/4 night trip to Bali.

Will post more about S1's trip later... (by the way, the photos posted previously is the actual hotel that they would be staying.)

Excited S1, Angry S2

With S1's impending school trip to Bali in less than two weeks, naturally, the fella is REALLY EXCITED. In addition to frolicking in the hotel pool, lazing on the beaches, and enjoying the customary Balinese performances, he will be going high-rope walking and white-water rafting too! Mind you...these 10/11 year olds will NOT be roughing it out. They will be staying in a FIVE. Yes.... FIVE Star Hotel that's located RIGHT ON the beach.

Envious?

S2 DEFINITELY IS!

He had been droning out "NOT FAIR" repetitively....that it really got on my nerves. So much so that I just want to slap him. What else did he say? "NOT FAIR. Kor-Kor always have fun. Now he is going to have sooooooo much fun. Five days of fun fun fun, and NO work! NOT FAIR. Mom....when Kor-Kor comes back, you MUST give him lots and lots of Maths to do!! Blah blah blah.."

Plus, he has been EXTRA unreasonable and nasty to S1. What can I do other than scream at him????

Medical Supplies for the Home

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Very Packed Day Indeed!

Today...I left the house at 9.30 AM and only stepped back in at 6.30 PM. That's a total of NINE hours!! Just like going to work, huh?? My maid could have had a bash in my house, clean-up and still have time to spare! Hahaha...

Now...let me see...

First, I went to the driving range... Hit about 130 balls. My irons are okay now. Was quite pleased with my No. 7 and No. 8 clubs. But donno why, my woods No.1 and No. 3 was terrible lah. Used to be good with my woods...but today hor, my ball fly to the left and to the right, except going straight! *sigh* Need more practice!

Then had lunch at Duck King....errr.. NO lah.. we didn't eat all this. Got this picture from Google Images. We had a yummy "Mun Ifu Noodle with Dried Scallop and Enoki Mushroom", Fried Seafood Noodle in Oyster Sauce, Fried Loh Pak Kou, Seafood/Chicken Crystal Dumpling and Prawn Cheong Fun.

After lunch, it was off to the boys' school for a Briefing on S1's Trip to BALI!!! Yeap! S2 will be going on a 5 days/4 nights trip to Bali. NO parents are ALLOWED! More about this in the next post.

After the talk, collected the boys from the library and then we were headed for their mandarin class. Dropped them off, and then I was very hardworking. Proceeded to....Spent about an hour there... picked boys up from mandarin and headed back home...

Vehicle Insurance a MUST!

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When I first moved here, I received advice from many people "NOT to drive, and to just utilise the driver". However, not heeding their advice, I went behind the wheel. The first time, I drove to the supermarket nearby. It was uneventful. The following week, I attempted to drive H to the office. It was a long weekend, and the roads were pretty clear. Not far from my home, I proceeded to emerge cautiously from a junction when the light turned GREEN. However, a reckless motorcylist dashed through and emerged right in front of my car.

BANG!

The guy fell from his bike and was wedged just under the front of my car. It was a terrible terrible experience. We sent the guy to the hospital, waited and shuttled between the hospital and the Police Station. Luckily, everything was sorted smoothly. I was told that because I was a foreigner, I could have been locked-up or attacked by a mob at the scene of the accident.

On hindsight, when the accident happened, I should have contacted the car leasing company immediately, as they had a dedicated personnel that dealt with all the Automobile Insurance Policies. The personnel did handle all the insurance claims, including the medical claims from the accident victim.

I hope this accident will not make insurance companies categorize me a POOR DRIVER, as I believe it was the reckless motorcyclist's fault. But I supposed I can still find a company that will provide competitive Poor Driver Auto Insurance Rates if it comes to that!

Another Day.....

.........Another Farewell Lunch.

Farewells in the expat community is a frequent thing. You make friends and with the blink of an eye, they are ready to move on to a different posting. (Wrote about this some time back)

This farewell lunch is for two ladies...one is moving to Melbourne and the other to Surabaya. We had Japanese/Korean at a restaurant called Chung Hae. I

INITIALLY - Nice clean tidy table setting
Starter - Octopus Salad
Starter - Salmon Salad

Then I started EATING....and then was too greedy to stop and whip out my camera to take the rest of the photos. There were Mixed Sashimi of all sorts, Fried Prawns in Spicy Sauce, Grilled Creamy Giant Clams, Seafood Kimchi, Spicy Soup, Clear Tofu Soup, Grilled Sanma...

*LOUD BURP*
(see the messy plate??)

Difficult Question...

S1 came home yesterday (Tuesday, 13th) , and presented me with these four books from the School Book Sale.
Where did he get the money to buy these books? Which costs about USD 20 ? I didn't give him any money for the Book Sale.....as I was in school on Monday, and already purchased USD 70 worth of books from the Book Sale.

So ??????

He said that he found the money on the ground. Yes. USD 20 on the school grounds... and so he used the money to purchased the books.

Of course I queried... It sounded too good to be true, right? Went through the whole series of "Did you take the money from some one? I won't scold you. Please tell the truth. Blah blah blah".

He swore. Said he really really found it on the ground. Then he asked me what I would have done if I found money on the ground.

Well, if it was me, I definitely will *FAST* *FAST* put it in my pocket lah. 'Choong sai mann ah kwai meh??'.....but of course didn't answer my son like that lah.

I said ... "Mmmm...that is quite a difficult question. If I keep the money, the owner would have lost quite a lot of money, and definitely would be sad. But if I give the money to the office, the clerk may just take it. And also will not know who lost the money. You can't exactly announce "WHO LOST US 20? as everyone will be coming to claim it. So how? It's not like a tupperware or bag where there would be some kind of distinct identification. Mmmm...very difficult indeed".

S1 then said "See? You also said Difficult. So, I keep and use it to buy books lah".

HOW WOULD YOU HAVE ANSWERED YOUR KID???

p/s Actually arr... my two boys always find money or food vouchers on the school ground one. But normally not much lah.. like about US 50 cents...enough to buy a Capri-Sonne or Powerade sort of drinks. The vouchers I know they really find on the ground, as many RICH kids buy the USD 2.50 voucher booklet, use USD 2 and then feel the 50 cents in the booklet is too troublesome to keep and they just discard it.

What Pressie will I Get?

Next week, H and I will be celebrating our 11th Wedding Anniversary. What pressie will I get? Will I get a great big bouquet of flowers, diamond rings or some kitchen equipment like a food processor??? I actually told H that it doesn't matter what it is, as long as it is NICELY wrapped with beautiful wrapping paper and tied with ribbons and bows! I just lurve the thrill of opening presents. Don't you?

Hidden Luxury!

In this traffic-choked city of narrow streets and alleyways, you'll be amazed to find an abundance of architecturally beautiful luxury homes hidden behind some nondescript gate. Many a times, when visiting friends, the roads leading to their homes would be terribly uneven and narrow, not to mention unpleasant. Then once you enter those gates,....WOW! It's like you are in a different world! Tropical landscaped gardens with manicured lawns and stone sculptures. The main house would normally have an underground garage, and an adjoining maids' quarters. And, of course there would be a swimming pool with an equally stunning terrace where we ladies sit and have morning coffee. Would you like a luxury home like this?