Narcissistic Me.... =P

A strange visitor

2012-01-16T14:38:00.000-08:00

A strange guest appeared at my doorstep last evening.... A Serama chicken, or a Malaysian Serama, a breed of Bantam chicken. It demanded to be allowed into the house and made itself at home much to the delight of my daughter and my visiting nephews....

History

The Malaysian Serama origins and history are unclear. There are legends of it being descent from a chance cross between a pigeon and chicken. Other stories of the birds derived from a gift of some small chickens by the King of Thailand to a local sultan in ancient times. It was almost certainly developed in Kelantan Province in Malaysia (near Thai border). Small chickens have always been popular pets in this area and are often referred to as "ayam katik" (pygmy chickens) and "ayam cantik" (pretty chickens).

The modern breed is attributed to the efforts of Wee Yean Een from Kelantan, who named the breed "Serama" after Raja Sri Rama, a character in the Wayang Kulit (or shadow puppet plays). The breed was first exhibited in 1990. The breed was hit hard by the Asian bird flu epidemic in 2004 when many birds were culled amid government concerns.

There are no written standards for the breed in it's native country. However, they do now have an overall guide on scoring and judging for competitions in Malaysia. Many breeders have a style or type that they breed to, but often breeders keep several "styles". These styles are often names given by breeders to describe a blood line of a champion (e.g. Husin, Mat Awang), but may also be more general shape, characteristics or behaviour (e.g. slim, submarine, and dragon). Hence there is quite a lot of diversity in Malaysia, but an over all theme of a small brave chicken with a persona of fearless warrior or toy soldier. The shape, behaviour, temperament and size of the bird are the most important characteristics. They compete against each other in open table top competitions (often described as "beauty contests") and scored by several judges. The prize for the winning birds can be quite a bit of money.

General characteristics

The Serama are characterized by their upright posture, full breast, vertical tail feathers held upright and tight up to the body and vertical wings held down nearly touching the ground. In Malaysia they are described as brave warriors and archangel chickens, because of their very human like appearance.

They are the smallest breed of chicken in the world. Typically under 500g, but with even smaller birds that are under 250g being bred in its native Malaysia. However, size alone does not define a Serama. A small chicken without the Serama "type" is not a Serama, but just another small bantam.

The following describes the overall characteristics of "Malaysian type." The Americans and Europeans have defined variants thereof.

Carriage & Temperament

Assertive with confident bold stance yet calm and manageable. Should be easily handled and show no aggression. The bird should pose readily and when viewed from the side should create a vase like or wide ‘V’ shape outline. They shake their wings and pose, walk with pride, pull their head back to reveal a large chest, lift the legs, and in some styles have neck/head vibrations similar to that of a pigeon

Body

The body is well muscled with breast carried high, full and well forward. From above the shape is somewhat elliptical, tapering towards the tail. The body should be short.

Wings

Fairly large wings in proportion to the body they should be held in a vertical position just clearing the ground and leaving the feet partially visible. Shoulders should be set high on the bird. Primaries are long of medium width with secondaries moderately long and broad.

Tail

Tail is full and carried high, pointing upwards and held close to the body of the bird with no space between the body and tail. The sickle feathers are relatively straight and spear like. A minimum of one inch longer than the other tail feathers, but ideally no more than a couple of inches above the head is desirable. The remaining tail feathers should ideally be no higher than the top of the comb when the bird is standing to attention. The Main tail feathers should be broad and should over lap neatly. The tail should be open and when viewed from behind should be open to an angle of 45 degrees creating an open ‘V’ shape.

Head

Head should be small and carried well back. Head is required beyond the level of the feet and held in position of more than 90 degrees from the feet. The single comb is small to medium in size with a minimum of five serrations preferred. The comb should be straight smooth, free of folds or any deformities and tending towards flyaway type. Wattles are to compliment the comb, smaller being preferred and free from folds and wrinkles.

Legs and feet

The legs are of medium to long length, straight and set wide apart to allow for full and muscular body. They should be strong and stable. Thighs should be of medium length and well muscled with shanks of good thickness. They should not appear soft and weak.

Feathers & Colour

Like some other Asiatic breeds, they are not colour bred in their native country. Only normal feathered birds are accepted in Malaysia. Feathers held tight against the body and should not be long or flowing.

(Taken off Wikipedia)

Cockroach facts..... errmmm (I hate them... but this is pretty interesting!!!!)

2012-01-12T16:46:00.000-08:00

The word cockroach comes from the Spanish word “cucaracha” which means “crazy bug”.

A cockroach can hold it’s breath for up to 40 minutes.A cockroach can hold it’s breath for up to 40 minutes.

A cockroach can live for 3-4 weeks without its head.

In a nuclear war which would level the Earth, cockroaches would be the only survivors.

Cockroaches have white blood.

Most roaches have the ability to fly, but not all do.

The largest roach in the world is the largest body, Macropanesthia rhinocerus from Australia weighing in at up to 50 grams.

Fried Cockroaches are common snacks in Cambodia, as are spiders and rats.

Try to catch a cockroach and you will see it is almost impossible. On their flanks cockroaches have small hairs that detect the slightest movement of the air caused by approaching animals as well as their direction.

Laboratory female roaches are able to reproduce without aid of a male. They produce all female offspring.

The cockroach world does not exist of dating or romantic warm-up rituals. The female mates only once and is pregnant for the rest of her life.

During the Vietnam War, USA used cockroaches to detect farmers who were doubling as Communist guerrillas.

Cockroaches have teeth in their stomachs.

Crushed cockroaches when applied to a wound, can help ease the sting.

A cockroach can change directions up to 25 times in a second.

If a cockroach breaks a leg it can grow another one.

Cockroaches breathe through their sides, and not through their noses.

Cockroaches are known to spend about 75% of the day just sitting around and doing nothing.

Cockroaches have 6 legs and at least 18 ‘knees’.

Cockroaches can run at the speed of 3 miles per hour.

Grand Theft by a 'lion'

2012-01-08T15:34:00.001-08:00

Note the lion trying to steal the stroller from the unsuspecting mother who was watching the other lion dancing.....

Ahhhhh.... I got away with it!!!!!!

Hey... give it back.. it's mine , you naughty kitty!!!!!

My pet Marimo....

2012-01-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

I somehow ended up adopting or buying myself a new pet today. A Marimo ball. Marimo (a.k.a. moss ball) is an endangered species of filamentous green algae originally founded in its natural habitat in Lake Akan, Hokkaido but it has now become a popular domestic plant that can be purchased at souvenir shops. Legend has it that Marimo can bring love, luck and happiness to those who nourish it with love and patience.

So hopefully, my pet Marimo which I call "Baby Emerald" will bring me love, luck and happiness.... It's small and in a bottle with some tiger eye crystals. I probably might get it a small aquarium to put it in.

LOVE EVERLASTING

There is a fairytale behind marimo balls. About 100 years ago, on the island of Hokkaido, there lived a young girl whose father was the head of a village near Lake Akan. The girl’s marriage had been arranged but unfortunately, she fell in love with a commoner and they ran away together. When the lovers reached Lake Akan, they jumped in. They then metamorphosed into little marimo balls and lived happily ever after

Self Motivation

2012-01-03T03:00:00.000-08:00

let's go NUTS

2012-01-02T14:53:00.000-08:00

Type of Nuts -

1) Almonds : top source of alpha tocopherol. Eat regularly for slow ageing and boost immune system..

Almonds are known to be greatly beneficial for a healthy skin. They help against pimples, premature wrinkles and hair fall. Almond oil massages are known to give the skin a natural glowing complexion. Almonds are used to treat anemia as they are a rich source of copper and iron. Almonds are known to improve bone density. They are also very good for the brain. They are good for the digestive system too as they are natural laxatives.

2) Brazil nuts : source of mineral selenium. Protect against cancers of the prostate, liver and lungs.

Brazil nuts are dry fruits which are similar to macadamia nuts. These nuts are rich in protein, fiber, selenium, magnesium, phosphorous, vitamin E and thiamine. Selenium in these nuts helps ward off the risk of cancer, as this antioxidant helps fight carcinogenic free radicals. These nut also help one maintain weight and help in the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Brazil nuts are helpful for the patients suffering from Acrodermatitis enteropathica which is a rare inherited disease. This is so because Brazil nuts can help alleviate zinc deficiency.

3) Cashews : source of zinc. - helathy visions n immune systems..

Cashew nuts are high in antioxidants, mono-saturated fats, magnesium, copper and calcium. They are an excellent source of vitamin K and are excellent for body building. With high levels of copper, cashews help in absorption of iron in the blood, help improve flexibility of bones, tissues and blood vessels. Eating cashews triggers your energy levels and gives you stronger bones and joints. Their consumption also helps produce melanin for hair and skin pigmentation. (Also go through these cashews nutrition facts.) These small kidney-shaped munchies are very high in energy and calories, and are filling too. They have a good amount of dietary fiber which will help you manage weight when eaten moderately. Cashews health benefits also include giving you healthy gums and teeth. Now that sure is a tasty reason to smile for! Give your diet a bonus with these edible ivory delicacies!

4) Hazelnuts : very rich in heart healthy monounsaturated fats.

Hazelnuts are packed with essential oils and supply a well-balanced mixture of vitamins and minerals. Hazelnuts contain about 75 percent mono-unsaturated fat and less than 4 percent saturated fat.

Filbert properties were first pointed out by the Greek physician Dioscorides 1800 years ago, "It cures chronic coughing if pounded filbert is eaten with honey. Cooked filbert mixed with black pepper cures the cold. If the ointment produced by mashing burnt filbert shells in suet is smeared on the head where hair does not grow due to normal baldness or to some disease, hair will come again."

A study conducted by Italian researchers has confirmed the presence of taxanes in the shells and leaves of hazel plants. The finding of the essential elements in shells and leaves, which are considered discarded material is a good sign for the future availability of paclitaxel 'Taxol'. Here is an overview of the health benefits of hazelnuts.

Hazelnuts are a good source of energy with their 60.5% fat content.

They are rich source of vitamin E which helps prevent oxidation of the polyunsaturated fats.

Hazelnuts are high in oleic acid, a mono-unsaturated fatty acid, which helps to lower cholesterol.

The cardio-protective arginine, an amino acid from hazelnuts helps in the relaxation of blood vessels.

Only a few nuts contain vitamin A, and hazelnuts are among them. Vitamin A is a natural antioxidant and has cancer-preventing properties.

They also provide you proteins but for that, combinations with other nuts, grains or legumes are required so as to avail the maximum benefit.

Hazelnuts rank number one among tree nuts in folate content. Folate is responsible for a decreased risk of neural tube birth defects and it reduces depression.

Hazelnuts are rich in minerals, particularly in manganese, selenium and zinc. The minerals calcium, magnesium and potassium from hazelnuts help to lower cholesterol.

Hazelnuts contain nearly 75 percent mono-unsaturated fat and less than 4 percent saturated fat. This high level of mono-unsaturated fat is credit-worthy for a reduction in both total blood and LDL cholesterol levels, provided hazelnuts are consumed as part of a low saturated fat diet.

Plant compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins are the phytochemicals that play an important role in decreasing the risk of heart diseases, cancer and other chronic diseases. Hazelnuts have the highest proanthocyanidin content of any tree nut. These elements offer astringent flavor to foods and may help reduce the risk of blood clotting and urinary tract infections.

Taking into consideration hazelnut nutrition facts and health benefits, hazelnuts are placed in a 'heart healthy' food group. Natural, roasted and blanched hazelnuts, all are considered as healthy for heart.

5) Macadamia nuts : excellent source of vitamin B n Thiamin.

Fats: Macadamia nuts comprise 84% monounsaturated, 3.5% polyunsaturated and12.5% saturated fatty acids. Being low in cholesterol and high in monounsaturated fatty acids which are 'good' fats, macadamia nuts help in the body's manufacture of essential fatty acids by maintaining the balance between omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids as well as increase the production of protective high density lipoproteins while suppressing the unhealthy low density lipoproteins. Hence, one of the most important macadamia nut health benefits is that being low in saturated fats and cholesterol, these nuts reduce the risks of heart diseases, stroke, anti-inflammatory diseases, anti-aggregatory diseases and immunomodulating diseases.

Protein: Macadamia nuts are also rich in essential and non essential amino acids which play an important role in the body's muscle formation, connective tissues and blood plasma development and overall well-being.

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates, also described as dietary fiber are the most basic source of energy in our body. In their most simplest form, they are present as saccharides (sugar) in the body. Hence, these nutritional nuts are also a good source of sugars, sucrose, fructose, glucose and maltose, and some other starch-based material.

Minerals and Vitamins: Macadamia nuts are loaded with vitamins like vitamin E, thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin, pantothenic acid (B5) and folate, and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and calcium. Hence, the nuts promote healthy bone and teeth formation, as well regulate the body's fluid balance and immune system. Also they enhance our nervous system and promotes healthy skin.

Dietary Fiber: Dietary fibers are nothing but roughage or complex carbohydrates that give a feeling of fullness and reduce appetite. Hence, macadamia nuts are rich in complex carbohydrates like lignans, hemicellulose, amylopectins, mucilage, gums and insoluble cellulose which promote desirable intestinal bacteria, slow digestion, and reduce constipation, hunger pangs, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive problems.

Phytonutrients: Macadamia nuts are good source of phytonutrients or phytochemicals like tocopherols and tocotrienols, (derivatives of Vitamin E), the biologically active components in the body that help remove free radicals which oxidize blood fats and damage healthy cells. Hence, their antioxidant properties reduce the possibilities of certain types of cancer like breast, cervical, gastrointestinal, lung, stomach and prostate cancer. Moreover, regular intake of the macadamia nuts serves in the growth of new tissues, slow down the aging process and also denigrates birth defects.

6) Pecans - high source of antioxidant.

One of the most significant facts of pecans nutrition is that these nuts are the best antioxidants. If you add a handful of pecan nuts to your daily diet, it will help to subdue the blood lipids to get oxidized unnecessarily. This helps in preventing coronary heart diseases. Pecan nut contains vitamin E which is a natural antioxidant that protects blood lipids from getting oxidized. No wonder, pecan nuts are topmost ranked nuts with highest antioxidant capacitance, among all the other nuts.

Another distinct factor of pecans nutrition is that they have cholesterol lowering properties. After an extensive research carried out by Dr. Ronald Eitenmiller from University of Georgia, it has been proved that the plant sterols in pecans have cholesterol-lowering characteristics. Heart patients now have a reason to rejoice, at least when it comes to pecan nuts!

Research has also confirmed that pecan nuts help in weight loss. According to researches consumption of these nuts help in increasing the metabolic rate of the body and improves satiety. More on weight loss.

Pecans are called 'heart-healthy' nuts. The reason behind this is that the unsaturated fat content in pecan is supposed to be the heart-healthy fat. Sixty percent of the fat content in pecans is mono unsaturated and the leftover thirty percent is polyunsaturated. This means that the saturated fat content in pecan nuts is very low and the unsaturated fats are heart-healthy. Besides, pecans contain zero trans fats.

Coming to the real pecans nutrition, let me tell you at the first place that pecan nuts contain 19+ vitamins and minerals. Vitamins from the B group, vitamin A, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, folic acid, phosphorus, zinc and magnesium are also present in pecans. If we look at the daily value of required fiber for our body, pecans provide 10% of the total fiber. Pecans are rich source of proteins and contain less carbohydrates and zero cholesterol. They are best-suited for sodium restricted diet for heart patients and those with high blood pressure, as they are sodium-free nuts.

7) Pine nuts - rich in manganese, zinc n magnesium n cholesterol - lowering phytochemicals.

Pine nuts are actually edible seeds of pine trees. Pine nuts are one of the few sources of pinolenic acid, which acts as natural appetite suppressant. Pine nuts also contain oleic acid which helps the liver function properly. Pine nuts also help prevent the blockage of arteries. These nuts are packed with iron which helps the body maintain the right hemoglobin levels. Magnesium found in pine nuts helps prevent muscle cramps and fatigue.

8) Pistachios - rich in fibre. Good source of potassium which keeps blood pressure normal..

9) Walnuts - rich in heart healthy alpha - linolenic acid - same type of omega 3 found in fish. Rich in gamma tocopherol.

Walnuts are rightly called the food of the gods. Walnuts strengthen the immune system, protect the heart and nourish our brain. Walnuts are a rich source of omega 3 fatty acids which makes them an ideal health snack for people suffering from asthma, arthritis, eczema and psoriasis. Walnuts reduce the cholesterol levels in the body and encourage the production of good cholesterol. They also help people with sleep related illness. Some also say that walnuts reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. They are also known to increase the bone density and prevent gallstones.

10) Peanuts -

Monkey nut, ground nut are some of the many names that peanuts are known by. Munching peanuts is not only a good way to pass time but also an excellent way to nourish your body. Peanuts provide the body with the required vitamins that help maintain a balanced metabolic rate. They nourish and strength muscles and tissues. Peanuts provide the body with good fats that protect the heart. Peanuts also help fight against harmful free radicals

INTAKES of NUTS - stick with a handful. Unsalted, dry roasted..prevention is better than Cure

Wasteful habits from our generation?

2012-01-02T14:50:00.000-08:00

Checking out at the grocery store recently, the young cashier suggested I should bring my own grocery bags because plastic bags weren't good for the environment.
I apologized and explained, "We didn't have this green thing back in my earlier days."
The clerk responded, "That's our problem today. Your generation did not care enough to save our environment for future generations."
She was right about one thing -- our generation didn't have the green thing in “Our” day. So what did we have back then…?

After some reflection and soul-searching on "Our" day here's what I remembered we did have.... Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles and beer bottles to the store. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled, so it could use the same bottles repeatedly. So they really were recycled.
But we didn't have the green thing back in our day. We walked up stairs, because we didn't have an escalator in every store and office building. We walked to the grocery store and didn't climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two blocks. But she was right. We didn't have the green thing in our day.
Back then, we washed the baby's diapers because we didn't have the throw-away kind. We dried clothes on a line, not in an energy gobbling machine burning up 220 volts -- wind and solar power really did dry our clothes back in our early days. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing. But that young lady is right. We didn't have the green thing back in our day.
Back then, we had one TV, or radio, in the house -- not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief (remember them?), not a screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand because we didn't have electric machines to do everything for us. When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded up old newspapers to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.
Back then, we didn't fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working so we didn't need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity. But she's right. We didn't have the green thing back then.
We drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen, and we replaced the razor blades in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull. But we didn't have the green thing back then.
Back then, people took the streetcar or a bus, and kids rode their bikes to school or walked instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. We had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn't need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint.
But isn't it sad the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn't have the green thing back then?

Happy New Year!!!!

2011-12-30T14:28:00.000-08:00

Today is the very last day of 2011. Tomorrow, we greet a whole new year.

There are so many things to decide, behaviors to change, hopefully for the better. Lots of things to learn still and to improve upon. If we were to look back, there are plenty of mistakes and weaknesses in us that can and should be improved on.

To all my dear relatives, friends, pen pals, swap pals, colleagues, clients, and all, please forgive any mistakes I may have done, the things I should have done but did not or any hurtful words as sometimes as humans, we tend to speak without thinking .

May the coming New Year bring more meaning, teach us all to be better people, send us more solutions to any problems or questions we have, more success, love, happiness and good health to everyone of us....

Happy New Year to all...... Happy 2012

A little quest....

2011-12-29T15:14:00.000-08:00

I came across this site on searching for places to visit and do in Bangkok, since I am already heading there for the very first time in July, having bought two tickets much earlier in the month for both my son and me. Just the tickets even on sale plus taxes for 2 people already costed nearly RM500 over Air Asia. (it was my son's turn to do some travelling and I was bringing him to brighten his horizons) My daughters naturally wanted to come along as they wanted to see Bangkok as well but due to limited resources, I postponed them. Then seeing this gave me the idea that maybe I can bring my girls along too or at least go on a different trip with my eldest girl since she was the one who really wanted to come along.

So I am currently on this quest of getting people to help vote for me..... (sorry for the spam and the bother sometimes....) and met/found lots of nice and helpful people who helped, as well as some selfish ones who criticize me as well. Ah well, there are always some nasty people around wherever you go anyway.

So far, like I said, I have had wonderful friends on and off facebook who has helped me vote.

And as of currently, I have about 158 points at rank number 14.... thanks a million to all those of you who made it possible. I truly am blessed to have friends like you who are willing to lend me a helping hand.... you know who you are...

For those who hasn't, please help me (if you can find it in your heart to do so). Still need plenty more votes so every little vote counts really!!! Please click the following link

http://bangkokiswaitingforyou.com/wishlist/992

and please click "like" on step 1 and step 2. . You could help make my daughter's dream come true . Thanks sooooo much in advance.

Maggi mee curry - a quick and delicious meal

2011-12-23T05:14:00.001-08:00

Maggi mee instant noodles is always a welcomed savior when: (pick one, depending on the situation)
a) after a busy day at work, tired and stressed, and in need of a quick meal. . .
b) a quick pick me up supper. . .
c) when one has some financial constraints. . .
d) a quick snack
e) great for whipping up a quick meal for guests. . .
f) etc, etc. . .

The curry flavoured one is especially my favorite, along with a million other Malaysians and other people as well.

I would normally have a simple meal cooked with just water and the noodles,when I am really lazy, or add in garlic, onions, vegetables and an egg.

This one in the picture however is a little bit more elaborate. I have chopped celery, tomatoes, carrot, garlic, onions, birds eye chilli and add in anchovies, a pinch of belacan in the pot and bring to a boil, then add in noodles and soup powder. Once the noodle cake is soft, I added the crab filament sticks. You can add in prawns, or cabbages, broccoli or cauliflower too, if you so desire. And an egg according to taste. . .

And there you have it, a quick nutritious bowl of noodles, though some people might beg to differ as they think the noodles have too much MSG or such. . . But well, it works for me!!!!

Christmas surprise.....

2011-12-22T05:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas, shouldn't just be about gifts, it should be about love, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, to give and be someone's angel when they need it the most.

I may be a Muslim, and have been a Muslim for the past 17 years but I was born a Christian. And Christmas brings nostalgic feelings even if I do NOT really celebrate it. Receiving a gift or to is always enjoyable, but, coming from a small family (very small), usually my gifts are just from my mom, who still celebrates Christmas.

This year however, I am so lucky to have a few 'angels' around me who truly surprised me and made this Christmas the very best of all, in my entire life.

I had a few pen pals send me beautiful gifts and surprises, things I truly love and appreciate from the bottom of my heart. This month had been also kind of hard on me as I had a lot of bills to pay, a parking ticket, and guests in my house (my adopted sister and my mother), and a few other things , besides buying Christmas gifts too , for some people.

Then I recall having to buy items for the children because the new school year was soon starting, and all, and my elder daughter will be coming back from her holidays in Penang with her father's side of the family. All these are quite taxing on me. I was kind of stressed and asked someone for a small loan, but instead of a loan, she gave me X amount of money in my account and told me it as a gift for my children and me!!! OMG. It was a real surprise, and a welcomed one, but I was truly overwhelmed as with everything, I have to admit and say that this Christmas is definitely the best of the best.... and thanks so much to all my "angels", YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE. You all make my life, this month , so meaningful, blessed and happy. I love you all and truly appreciate it.

Joy resounds in the hearts of those who believe in the miracle of Christmas!
Wishing you all the peace, joy, and love of the season!

New is the year, new are the hopes and the aspirations, new is the resolution, new are the spirits and forever my warm wishes are for u.Have a promising and fulfilling new year.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all....

A funny story with a lesson!!!

2011-12-11T15:51:00.000-08:00

A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold the bird froze and she fell to the ground into a large field.

While she was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on her.

As the frozen bird laid there in the pile of cow dung, she began to realize how warm it was.

The dung was actually thawing her out!

She lays there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy.

A passing cat hears the bird singing and comes to investigate.

Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug her out and ate her.

Morals of the story:
[1] Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy.
[2] Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend.
[3] And when you are in deep shit, keep your mouth shut!

the Zen of Kung Fu Panda

2011-12-09T15:46:00.003-08:00

The Zen of Kung Fu Panda | Kung Fu Panda 2 Movie Quotes

“Now… The most important time is now…” Soothsayer

“Your story may not have such a happy beginning, but that doesn’t make you who you are, it is the rest of your story, who you choose to be… …So who are you Panda?” Soothsayer

“Anything is possible when you have inner peace.” Shifu

“Once I realized the problem was not you but within me. I found inner peace and was able to harness the flow of the universe.” Shifu – Kung Fu Panda 2 quote

Lord Shen: “How did you find peace? I took away your parents, everything, I scarred you for life.”

Kung Fu Panda: See that’s the thing Shen, scars heal,

Shen: No they don’t… wounds heal.

Kung Fu Panda: Oh yah… what do scars do? They fade I guess.

Lord Shen: I don’t care what scars do…

Kung Fu Panda: “You should Shen. You got to let go of the stuff from past – because it just doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is what you choose to be now.”

Kung Fu Panda 1 Movie Quotes:

Po: “Maybe I should just quit and go back to making noodles.”

Oogway: “Quit, don’t quit? Noodles, don’t noodles? You are too concerned about what was and what will be. There is a saying: yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the “present.”

Oogway: My friend, the panda will never fulfill his destiny, nor you yours until you let go of the illusion of control.

Shifu: Illusion?

Oogway: Yes.

[points at peach tree]

Oogway: Look at this tree, Shifu: I cannot make it blossom when it suits me nor make it bear fruit before its time.

Shifu: But there are things we *can* control: I can control when the fruit will fall, I can control where to plant the seed: that is no illusion, Master!

Oogway: Ah, yes. But no matter what you do, that seed will grow to be a peach tree. You may wish for an apple or an orange, but you will get a peach.

Shifu: But a peach cannot defeat Tai Lung!

Oogway: Maybe it can, if you are willing to guide, to nurture it, to believe in it.

Shifu: But how? How? I need your help, master.

Oogway: No, you just need to believe. Promise me, Shifu, promise me you will believe.”

Mr. Ping: “The secret ingredient is… nothing!

Po: Huh?

Mr. Ping: You heard me. Nothing! There is no secret ingredient.

Po: Wait, wait… it’s just plain old noodle soup? You don’t add some kind of special sauce or something?

Mr. Ping: Don’t have to. To make something special you just have to believe it’s special.

[Po looks at the scroll again, and sees his reflection in it]

Po: There is no secret ingredient.”

the Zen of Kung Fu Panda

2011-12-09T15:46:00.001-08:00

The Zen of Kung Fu Panda | Kung Fu Panda 2 Movie Quotes

“Now… The most important time is now…” Soothsayer

“Your story may not have such a happy beginning, but that doesn’t make you who you are, it is the rest of your story, who you choose to be… …So who are you Panda?” Soothsayer

“Anything is possible when you have inner peace.” Shifu

“Once I realized the problem was not you but within me. I found inner peace and was able to harness the flow of the universe.” Shifu – Kung Fu Panda 2 quote

Lord Shen: “How did you find peace? I took away your parents, everything, I scarred you for life.”

Kung Fu Panda: See that’s the thing Shen, scars heal,

Shen: No they don’t… wounds heal.

Kung Fu Panda: Oh yah… what do scars do? They fade I guess.

Lord Shen: I don’t care what scars do…

Kung Fu Panda: “You should Shen. You got to let go of the stuff from past – because it just doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is what you choose to be now.”

Kung Fu Panda 1 Movie Quotes:

Po: “Maybe I should just quit and go back to making noodles.”

Oogway: My friend, the panda will never fulfill his destiny, nor you yours until you let go of the illusion of control.

Shifu: Illusion?

Oogway: Yes.

[points at peach tree]

Oogway: Look at this tree, Shifu: I cannot make it blossom when it suits me nor make it bear fruit before its time.

Shifu: But there are things we *can* control: I can control when the fruit will fall, I can control where to plant the seed: that is no illusion, Master!

Oogway: Ah, yes. But no matter what you do, that seed will grow to be a peach tree. You may wish for an apple or an orange, but you will get a peach.

Shifu: But a peach cannot defeat Tai Lung!

Oogway: Maybe it can, if you are willing to guide, to nurture it, to believe in it.

Shifu: But how? How? I need your help, master.

Oogway: No, you just need to believe. Promise me, Shifu, promise me you will believe.”

Mr. Ping: “The secret ingredient is… nothing!

Po: Huh?

Mr. Ping: You heard me. Nothing! There is no secret ingredient.

Po: Wait, wait… it’s just plain old noodle soup? You don’t add some kind of special sauce or something?

Mr. Ping: Don’t have to. To make something special you just have to believe it’s special.

[Po looks at the scroll again, and sees his reflection in it]

Po: There is no secret ingredient.”

world's most expensive cities 2011

2011-12-05T00:50:00.000-08:00

World's Most Expensive Cities 2011

No. 1: Tokyo

Quick lunch: $20.80
Beer at a bar: $10.56
Kilogram of rice: $9.80
Dozen eggs: $4.50
Movie theater ticket: $23.80

Although the consumer price index in the Tokyo area has been falling since 2009, according to data from Japan's statistics bureau, the city remains the world's most expensive. While housing costs are not included in this survey, ECA International estimates that the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Tokyo stood at $4,352 in September.

No. 2: Oslo

Quick lunch: $45.20
Beer at a bar: $13.18
Kilogram of rice: $6.10
Dozen eggs: $8.50
Movie theater ticket: $18.80

Norway's capital is a major hub for trade, shipping, and finance and is home to the Oslo Stock Exchange. Oslo has ranked among the world's most expensive cities for years, which is not surprising when a quick lunch costs about $45 and a dozen eggs, $8.50.

No. 3: Nagoya, Japan

Quick lunch: $19
Beer at a bar: $11.37
Kilogram of rice: $8.50
Dozen eggs: $3.60
Movie theater ticket: $21.80

Nagoya is one of Japan's premier industrial and technological centers and is well known for its high quality of life and competitive business costs,according to the U.S. Commercial Service. Unlike Japan's other major cities, Nagoya was not significantly harmed by the global economic downturn and has maintained its growth.

No. 4: Stavanger, Norway

Quick lunch: $32.30
Beer at a bar: $12.83
Kilogram of rice: $5.70
Dozen eggs: $6.80
Movie theater ticket: $17.30

Stavanger was mainly a fishing community until oil was found in the North Sea in the 1960s, transforming it into a major Norwegian city. Today, Norway is a leading oil exporter, with Statoil as the largest oil company in the Stavanger region. The industry has become central to the local economy and has attracted many residents from other countries.

No. 5: Yokohama, Japan

Quick lunch: $16.90
Beer at a bar: $6.59
Kilogram of rice: $4.20
Dozen eggs: $2.50
Movie theater ticket: $21.70

Japan's second-largest city after Tokyo, Yokohama is easily reached from Tokyo by train. The port city is home to over 300 IT firms and has a growing biotechnology base, according to the city. Yokohama has nine main business districts and exports many cars and auto parts.

No. 6: Zurich

Quick lunch: $32.90
Beer at a bar: $10.54
Kilogram of rice: $3.70
Dozen eggs: $7.90
Movie theater ticket: $19.60

The financial sector is an important part of Zurich's economy and the city is home to the Swiss Stock Exchange and companies such as Credit Suisse and Swiss Re. Zurich is also a major transportation hub. Mercer ranked the city second in the world for quality of life in 2010, but such a high standard of living does not come cheap: Zurich jumped to No. 6, from being the 10th most expensive city last year.

No. 7: Luanda, Angola

Quick lunch: $52.40
Beer at a bar: $6.62
Kilogram of rice: $4.60
Dozen eggs: $5.20
Movie theater ticket: $13.90

Luanda was the most expensive city in the world in ECA International's 2009 ranking. Last year it slipped to third place, due to the depreciation of the kwanza, and this year it fell again, to No. 7. While the city has a high poverty rate, it remains one of the most expensive places for expatriates to maintain standards of living comparable to those in their home countries.

No. 8: Geneva

Quick lunch: $33.70
Beer at a bar: $9.12
Kilogram of rice: $4.70
Dozen eggs: $8.60
Movie theater ticket: $19.20

Truly a global city, Geneva is home to such international organizations as the United Nations (which has an office in the city) and the International Committee of the Red Cross. An important center for banking, government, and technology, Geneva attracts many professional visitors, as well as tourists. It ranked as the third-best city in the world for quality of life in Mercer's 2010 report.

No. 9: Kobe, Japan

Quick lunch: $15.60
Beer at a bar: $8.69
Kilogram of rice: $9.30
Dozen eggs: $3.10
Movie theater ticket: $20.80

Kobe is one of Japan's busiest ports and a manufacturing center for appliances, food, and transportation equipment. The city offers many types of cuisine, though it's known best for high grade and pricey Kobe beef.

No. 10: Bern, Switzerland

Quick lunch: $28.80
Beer at a bar: $7.46
Kilogram of rice: $4.70
Dozen eggs: $8.40
Movie theater ticket: $19.10

Switzerland's capital, Bern is the center of Swiss government, the engineering industry, and the precision industry, as well as a manufacturing center for watches and other technology used in the medical, IT, and automotive sectors, according to the Bern Economic Development Agency. Branded watches such as Rolex, Longines, Swatch, and Rado are manufactured in the Canton of Bern.

On seeing that and on the thought of heading to Tokyo next year .... I guess I won't be shopping, LOL.... =(

Be Happy

2011-12-02T00:37:00.000-08:00

I'll be happy when...

We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we are frustrated that the kids aren't old enough and we'll be more content when they are. After that, we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We will certainly be happy when they are out of that stage. We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, when we are able to go on a nice vacation or when we retire. The truth is there's no better time to be happy than right now. If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges.

It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway. Happiness is the way. So, treasure every moment that you have and treasure it more because you shared it with someone special, special enough to spend your time with ... and remember that time waits for no one.

So, stop waiting ...
Until your car or home is paid off.
Until you get a new car or home.
Until your kids leave the house.
Until you go back to school.
Until you finish school.
Until you lose 10 lbs.
Until you gain 10 lbs.
Until you get married.
Until you get a divorce.
Until you have kids.
Until you retire.
Until summer..
Until spring.
Until winter.
Until fall.
Until you die.

There is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey, not a destination. So work like you don't need money, love like you've never been hurt, and, dance like no one's watching.

One of those awkward oh dear moments. . .

2011-11-14T07:50:00.000-08:00

This is actually, I guess one of those oh dear awkward moments in life where my husband must be feeling so frazzled and worried and not being able to be everywhere at the same time. All his children are unwell and his wife is also feeling poorly.
It started with his elder daughter who had been feeling pretty unwell a few days ago. She had fever and guess what, her SPM exams are on as well.
To my foreign friends reading this, SPM is practically the most important exams in school. It detrrmine where you head next in life or which college or not.
Then I woke up with the mother of all sore throats and an aching body today. Then noon came and my husband's eldest son called to say he has appendicitis and is going to need a surgery. So both my husband and his ex wife rushed east to Kuantan, some 150 or so kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur.
Then our youngest daughter came back and when she heard I had sore throat, insisted she had one too. At first I thought she was playing at it but obviously it was real when she started crying in pain on having to swallow her noodles soup.
Now at 11.30pm, she is kinda sleeping restlessly as she has a fever to go along with it. I gave her some ibuprofen medication and tucked her back to bed but.now I can't sleep, because my throat hurts like hell too and I have not eaten anything since breakfast.
And I am thinking of my husband who loves his family so much but is now with his eldest son who just finished his surgery while the rest of us also need his presence but have to contend ourselves with other comfort for the present. He must be so worried and stressed.
He is a wonderful husband and father and can be more protective of his brood at times then a mother hen and her chicks. Much more then me even. I adore him and treasure our life together, the ups and downs and all. Thanks so much for being in my life, Dzul Rashidi.

It's a material world......

2011-11-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

Excerpts from various media... reports

*(The Star): Despite the rising cost of living, Malaysian consumers identify strongly with expensive branded products, said the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca).Its chief executive officer Datuk Paul Selvaraj said instead of buying cheaper in-house brands, consumers opt for branded items that are usually more expensive.“This shows we have become a materialistic society,” he said during The Star's “Protect Our Pockets” roundtable on the rising cost of living on Tuesday.He said Malaysians have become obsessed with brands until they overlook cheaper price items which they think have less quality.“Appearances have become more important than substance. They buy a car not because it could bring them from one place to another but to make them feel better.“It is about our value system. One example is buying a Honda City when they can only afford a Perodua Kancil,” said Selvaraj (taken off The Star Newspaper.)*

*A man who doesn't have a stable job and money is neither beautiful nor intelligent. A man who has money is beautiful as well as intelligent.

A son who doesn't do a job and give money to his mother after one month is not a son. A son who earns and gives it to his mother is actually a son.

A husband who works 18 hours a day but can't give a handsome amount of money to his wife is not her husband despite of the fact that he works for 18 hours and tries his best. A husband who takes bribes and gives handsome money to his wife is a good husband.

A society built upon the ideology of Greed. And where people don't appreciate one's effort but the product which the other person is providing, no matter it is from legal ways or illegal ways, is a society I call a failed society full of Pimps.(taken off http://www.defence.pk*

*The impact of materialism in society is a complex subject. Materialism can be defined as a dominating sense of desire to pursue wealth and other tangible things that can provide physical comforts that ignores the importance of spiritual values. The characteristics of such materialistic people are greed for money, tendency to become rich quickly even if it involves a lot of risk. It also involves the desire to live in plush houses, wearing highly expensive clothes and jewelry and driving flashy cars. In short, the urge to lead an extravagant life.Personal satisfaction and greed are the most important aspects of life of the society driven by materialism. Many people echo the sentiment that the real cause of the economic problems that has hit the world is the greed caused by materialism. The real problem may not be so simple but it could be one of the reasons. Here the greed is not only confined to acquisition of money but also power. Where there is power, corruption is bound to happen.

Materialism promotes many other negative feelings as well like lust, selfishness, jealousy, sense of hopelessness, etc. People are forgetting their moral values and often fail to understand the distinction between right choices and the wrong ones. The only thing that matters is good quality life and false comforts. They think that everything around them is dictated by need of humans and is being provided by the environment. All their beliefs are based on scientific inference only. The worst of all they have lost faith in God as they refuse to believe in anything that we cannot see or hear or touch. As a result, they remain unrepentant after committing sin. Thus materialism has adversely affected the entire framework of our society.*

*(part of the lyrics to "Material Girl" by Madonna. )
Some boys kiss me, some boys hug me I think they're O.K.
If they don't give me proper credit I just walk away

They can beg and they can plead But they can't see the light, that's right
'Cause the boy with the cold hard cash Is always Mister Right,

'cause we are living in a material world and I am a material girl
You know that we are living in a material world and I am a material girl .....*

“Money can’t buy happiness.” True, money can’t buy happiness, but spent wisely, it can contribute mightily to a happy life. Some people are too materialistic – meaning that some people place too much value on owning things and showing them off to others in order to make an impression. Some, even go to the extent of competing with their rivals, friends or neighbours. (example: Neighbour 'A ' bought a new car because he or she had a bonus. Neighbour 'B' sees it, and hurries off to get one of equal or more value because he or she is 'kiasu'.

(Note: Kiasu (kee-ah-soo) = Kiasu describes being (or a person who is) greedy, unwilling to share, or competitive in order to advance one's self. Examples of Kiasu include driving aggressively to get to the front of a traffic line or registering young children early at top schools, prior even to knowing the child's aptitude. Kiasu describes the idea that one must outdo and outshine all others, have more of any given thing, pay the least amount for items (thereby getting the best deal) and always be the first or best. )

However, if you are the guy who always buys the latest tech gadget – not from a desire to show that he can afford the most expensive new device, but to feed his fascination with technology, and perhaps also to maintain his reputation as an expert in technology and the person to whom everyone can go for advice, or if you are part of the couple who constantly renovate their house by adding a deck, adding a garden, putting in a new kitchen – not to show off to the neighbors, but as a way to get some satisfaction in their lives, it is ok, as after working hard for it, you do deserve some form of satisfaction and self reward.

However, in society today, and even just amongst ourselves, our children, people are too 'kiasu' or afraid to lose out to the peers and buy the latest gadgets, latest and most expensive items they can afford, just to let others know they can and to show off among their peers.

I have seen even young children with the latest technology, PSP, PS3, the latest iPhone, iPad and they keep changing it, because they parents can afford to. I have seen and know people who just stroll along to their neighbours house to check out what their neighbour has acquired so they can do the same or to tell their neighbour that, 'Oh, I just bought this LV bag for RM5,000' without being asked....

It is ok if you want to reward yourself with a nice branded bag, that nice dress, or a nice car. I am not saying that you can't. Just remember to live within your means, and buy it because you really want it, not for showing it off to other people and also that nothing in this life lasts forever. Material things can be stolen, can be spoiled, and cannot be taken to the afterlife after one dies.

Besides, another point to ponder is that having all the branded stuff and expensive items does not make you rich!! Maybe you can pretend to be rich for a few days, but the truly rich people often scrimp and save as much money as they can. I know a few very rich people who just move around in their daily lives in plain clothing, some even wear torn clothing, driving normal everyday cars, like a Toyota or a Proton Saga, even motorcycles and eating at roadside hawker stalls. One of them is in the top 50 richest men list in Malaysia, but when you meet him, you almost can't believe it. They probably have a very nice home or bungalows, but they wear normal brand clothes you can buy below RM100, and they drive normal cars, and behave normally.

(A very good example is Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of Ikea ...

Ingvar Kamprad may not be a household name, but the company that has perhaps made him the world's richest man certainly is. Statistics analysed by the Swedish business magazine Veckans Affarer suggest that the founder of Ikea is now richer than Bill Gates of Microsoft, being worth nearly £29bn. The most recent Forbes magazine rich list put Mr Gates at £25.5bn. Mr Kamprad, a reclusive 77-year-old known for his frugal habits, lives in Switzerland and no longer takes part in the daily running of the privately-owned company. The company Mr Kamprad founded has 180 stores in more than 30 countries and sells a lifestyle as much as its trademark cheery and functional goods. Mr Kamprad's thrift is as legendary as his wealth: he drives an old Volvo, lives discreetly near Lausanne, travels second-class by train, and looks for a good deal wherever he can find one.When he was upgraded to the penthouse at a New York hotel which he did not realise he owned, he had himself downgraded back to the small single room he had originally booked. His idea of fun is cycling across rural Sweden.)

Fried carrot cake aka char koay kak

2011-10-31T23:03:00.001-07:00

Ok. I know the English name really sounds strange and even misleading as it is actually just rice cake fried with egg, bean sprouts, soy sauce, chilli, garlic and preserved bitty radishes. But somehow, someone started the trend calling it carrot cake and it stuck.
I was confused the first time I realised the English name for this dish was fried carrot cake as it barely resembled the traditional or original carrot cake I sometimes have for tea.
This dish was one of my favourite dishes when I was growing up at the Pulau Tikus market. It is still there. I think.
You can now find it in various Chinese nightmarkets all around Klang Valley, but they are not halal as sometines they are fried with lard to make it more fragrant.
The halal ones, you can probably find in food courts like in Avenue K, where this pic was taken, and other food courts like KLCC, Mid Valley, etc.

2011-10-28T05:57:00.001-07:00

why I choose to be a Unit Trust Consultant

2011-10-26T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am a Unit Trust consultant and I have been one for the past 9 years.. yup, since 2002!!! I may not be your so called successful agent who's driving a Mercedes or a BMW, earning 5 to 6 figure incomes, but nevertheless, I am successful in my own way.
I have been a National Sales Convention qualifier year after year since 2006 and a Million Ringgit Producer every year for the same number of years.
I came from a broken home, had a miserable childhood, struggled to make ends meet, was a single mom, and just finished school with a grade 2 in SPM. I did not know where I was going and what I was doing. Oh, I had dreams to marry a rich man but even though there were rich or very well to do men wanting to fulfill my dreams, I just couldn't go through with it because I did not love them.
I was bored easily, hated going to work from 9 to 5 and staring at the same 4 walls or people for too long, and I never worked in a place for more then 3 years. I have worked in Sunway Lagoon, Penang Parkroyal, The Ritz Carlton, Warner Music Malaysia , just to name a few...
It as by sheer chance , upon coming back from overseas, after a holiday upon quitting my last job that I happened on an advertisement in the Star newspaper looking for unit trust consultants with Public Mutual Bhd. It seemed interesting for me, and I went for the Business Opportunity Meeting and was signed up by my upline, Hamidah.
I was hopeless at meeting people and balked at the thought of making cold calls. And when following my upline and some colleagues on roadshows and such, froze when my upline urged me to approach someone to solicit sales. My upline all but gave up on me.
I was lucky though I manage some nerve to talk to a few slightly higher nett worth people and they invested their EPF funds with me and that kept me going. I had some income but it as not much.
Finally with my upline and side lines (colleagues under the same group) urging, tutorial and all, I finally broke out from my shell and did more or less what was expected of me.
I fell in love with one of my colleagues who helped me a lot and guided me a lot. He was a divorcee just like me, and after about a year of seeing each other, we got married.
It was he who encouraged me a lot, pointing out what would happen if I give up (I have to back to work and earn pittance and stare at the same four walls etc... no time to myself and such)
and it was for my children I decided to work harder.
That is how I got to where I am today. The other beautiful part of being a unit trust consultant like me is I have no boss, and I go to work whenever I like. There are times I work just 2 or 3 days a week, there are times I go to work late or come back early. There are times I just skip work altogether just to spend time with my children, especially when they are unwell. It's the freedom of not having to report to anyone and just taking time off whenever I like. There are times, I just see a client a day and run off to go shopping or watch a movie on my own.
And oh... every year, I get to go on free trips... all paid for... I sold of tickets to Kunming and Ho Chih Minh trips to my colleagues as I was dumb in the beginning, and went to Bali, Phuket (as you can see in the pictures here)... all in 5 star hotels and 5 star tours and meals... we don't have to pay a single cent except for your shopping.... and next year??? I am heading to Tokyo, Japan....... anyone coming????
And the best thing? I earn so much more then I would earn working for someone in the office. I earn 2-3 times more and sometimes on a hardworking month, even 4-5 times what I would earn getting scolded or having to clock into the office from 9 to 5.
Well, I know I can earn so much more if I want to and if I am willing to put in more effort, but hey, I want to enjoy my life, my husband and my children's growing years as well, instead of being just a workaholic and thinking about dollars and cents. Thus I choose to be a simple, average unit trust consultant instead earning enough to give my family a comfortable life... and managing my clients the best I can. To any of my clients (if you are reading this) Thanks for all the support you have give me.... I will endeavor to do my best.
To anyone interested in joining me or exploring a career in unit trust like me, and enjoying your time, feel free to contact me : Miera at 012 3386033 or Dzul at 017 6830333

2011-10-21T16:57:00.001-07:00

The price of procrastination

2011-10-20T00:12:00.001-07:00

When you want to do something, just do it!!! Look what the price of procrastination has caused me.. I was browing through the Kinokuniya bookshop here and an ad really drew my attention. Buy the magazine and a chance to win a free Brics Milano bag worth RM399 or a Laura Mercier toiletries set, and also a chance to win a watch worth RM3000! !!!
I mulled it over, wanting to buy it or not. . And went home. Today, I was at the book shop again and I saw a woman bought 3 of the magazines and came walking out , smug and proud owner of 3 of those bags I so coveted. I rushed in and bought one of the magazines and yup, I won a prize, but unfortunately for me, the lady had just walked off with the last bag available and I had to make do with a box of Laura Mercier toiletries.
Indeed, I should be grateful I got a prize, but if I had not procrastinate , I would have been a proud owner of one of those bags!!!! Hmmm. . That should teach me.to.procrastinate more!!!

Javanese Royal Wedding in Yogyakarta 18/10/11

2011-10-19T15:13:00.000-07:00

Thousands greet Javanese royal couple

Slamet Susanto and Sri Wahyuni, The Jakarta Post, Yogyakarta | Wed, 10/19/2011 7:08 AM

Fairy tale wedding: Gusti Kanjeng Ratu Bendara (center) is held aloft by her new husband, Kanjeng Pangeran Haryo Yudanegara (right), and his uncle, Gusti Bendoro Pangeran Haryo Suryodiningrat (left) at Yogyakarta Palace on Tuesday. Reuters/Beawiharta Yogyakarta’s iconic street, Jl. Malioboro, was flooded by some 40,000 onlookers hoping to catch a glimpse of Yogyakarta’s new royal couple during their parade for the wedding reception on Tuesday.

Using five royal carts, the entourage of Sultan Hamengkubuwono X’s youngest daughter, Gusti Kanjeng Raden Bendara, and her husband, Kanjeng Pangeran Haryo Yudanegara, left the palace’s Keben gate at 4 p.m.

Riding the Kyai Jong Wiyat cart, the royal couple paraded along Jl. Malioboro to the Bangsal Kepatihan at the gubernatorial office compound located on the same street.

“It’s a relief that I finally saw the royal couple,” said Hartini, 55, of Patalan village in Bantul regency.

“I really wanted to see the couple riding on the sacred cart,” said Martinah, 65, who took her two daughters and grandchild to the parade.

The enthusiasm was evident along Jl. Malioboro since early Tuesday, as celebrants held a so-called “people’s party” to be part of the royal wedding. The street party offered various traditional performances, not only from Yogyakarta, but also from other regions such as East Java and East Nusa Tenggara.

The palace prepared over 150 angkringan carts serving various drinks, snacks and foods for free along the street, which was decorated with janur (young coconut leaves).

The wedding ceremony (ijab qobul) took place at 7 a.m. at the palace’s Panepen Mosque, led by the Sultan himself using honorific Javanese language. Yudanegara — whose original name was Achmad Ubaidillah and who is from Lampung — also said his wedding vows in Javanese. The procession ended with the signing of the prenuptial certificate.

Yudanegara, in a traditional white suit, offered sungkeman (kneeling down to present his respect) to the sultan.

His greeting was followed with the panggih (the meeting of the bride and the groom) ritual at the palace’s Bangsal Kencana verandah at about 10 a.m. Some 2,000 guests — including President Susilo Bambang Yu-dhoyono, First Lady Ani Yudhoyono, Vice President Boediono and other VIPs — witnessed the ritual.

Also in attendance were former vice presidents Jusuf Kalla and Hamzah Haz. Former president Megawati Soekarnoputri also came to the palace, but arrived only after Yudhoyono had left.

The panggih ritual included throwing betel leaves, stepping on an egg and the bride washing the groom’s feet. It ended with a pon-dhongan (carrying the bride on top of the groom’s and the bride’s uncle’s arms) ritual to symbolize the husband’s obligation of respecting and protecting his wife.

“I am happy that everything has run smoothly so far as expected,” Sultana GKR Hemas said.

Her eldest daughter, GKR Pembayun agreed. “I also want to extend our gratitude to all Yogyakartans for their participation.”

King of Bhutan marries.... 14th October 2011

2011-10-19T14:54:00.000-07:00

Thimphu : The “Dragon King” of Bhutan married the 21-year-old daughter of an airline pilot Thursday in a ceremony at which there was a notable lack of bizarre hats (like those seen earlier this year at the British royal wedding), but a great deal of color and stately beauty.

The new queen, Jetsun Pema, a student at London’s Regents College, had ordered several elaborate traditional national dresses, or kiras, from Bhutanese weavers. The one she wore was handwoven of raw silk. The crown that was perched on her head at the ceremony also was embroidered with silk. At one point, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck donned a crown adorned with a raven’s head.

The wedding took place in a 17th-century fortress-monastery in ancient Punakha, and Pema was led into the courtyard for the ceremony by a procession of flag-bearers and scarlet-robed monks.

The king, 31 and a graduate of Oxford, was as brightly dressed as his bride, with an eye-grabbing yellow sash. If his hair and sideburns carried hints of latter-day Elvis Presley, there’s a good reason: Apparently, the king is a big fan of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

MSN India called the event a “watershed event for the Dragon Kingdom.” The tiny Himalayan nation has been transfixed by the wedding. As Reuters reports, TV was introduced there only in 1999, and the ceremony was broadcast live.

The royal couple apparently met when aged 17 and 7 respectively at a family picnic in Thimphu. The then-prince got down on his knees and said “when you grow up, if I am single and not married and if you are single and not married, I would like you to be my wife, provided we still feel the same,” he told students in August.

Despite the romantic tale, residents had come to view the king, who came to power in 2008 with the start of democracy in Bhutan, as a foot-dragger when it came to finding a wife. According to Al Jazeera, the nation had grown increasingly “impatient with its king’s lack of urgency to tie the knot.”

And like Britain and Kate Middleton, Bhutan fell in love with Pema, whose “international looks” have been praised widely.

LEARN CHINESE IN 5 MINUTES :

2011-10-19T01:01:00.000-07:00

(You MUST READ THEM OUT LOUD or it doesnt make as much sense):p

1. Thats not right ~~ Sum Ting Wong
2. Are you harboring a fugitive ~~ Hu Yu Hai Ding
3. See me ASAP ~~ Kum Hia Nao
4. Stupid Man ~~ Dum Fuk
5. Small horse ~~ Tai Ni Po Ni
6. Did you go to the beach? ~~ Wai Yu So Tan
7. I bumped in to a coffee table ~~ Ai Bang Mai Fa Kin Ni
8. I think you need a face lift ~~ Chin Tu Fat
9. It's very dark in here ~~ Wao So Dim
10.I thought you were on a diet ~~ Wai Yu Mun Ching
11.This is a tow away zone ~~ No Pah King
12.Staying out of sight ~~ Lei Ying Lo
13.He's cleaning his automobile ~~ Wa Shing Ka
14.Your body odor is offensive ~~ Yu Stin Ki Pu
15.Great ~~ Fa Kin Su Pah

**For the losers who didn't get it..... You are dumb !!!!!**

A traditional Javanese Royal wedding by the royal family in Yogyakarta on the 18th October

2011-10-19T00:50:00.001-07:00

These pictures were taken by a facebook friend who were lucky to attend in person. Thanks for allowing me to share, Yuanita.

2011-10-18T23:06:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween. . .or preparing for it. . . Hahahaah. . .

A weird happening. . .

2011-10-18T18:30:00.001-07:00

My husband and I were driving around our housing area with the windows open. I was in the passenger seat when all of a sudden, something slammed into me. It was a small thing and I thought someone threw something at me.
To my surprise, the 'thing' ended up on the car's dashboard. It was a bird and a very pretty one. The body was blue in colour, and it had a russet coloured head. It was flapping around in a panic, trapped in it's fear on the dashboard. Finally I caught it, examined it for fear of any injury to the little critter, but upon seeing nothing amiss, released it.
It flew away with no harm but perhaps a shock of it's life and a bruised ego.

some helpful tips

2011-10-18T03:57:00.000-07:00

Cure urinary tract infections with Alka-Seltzer. Just dissolve two tablets in a glass of water and drink it at the onset of the symptoms. Alka-Seltzer begins eliminating urinary tract infections almost instantly-even though the product was never advertised for this use.

Honey remedy for skin blemishes... cover the blemish with a dab of honey and place a Band-Aid over it. Honey kills the bacteria, keeps the skin sterile, and speeds hea lin g. Works overnight.

Listerine therapy for toenail fungus: Get rid of unsightly toenail fungus by soaking your toes in Listerine Mouthwash. The powerful antiseptic leaves your toenails looking healthy again.

Easy eyeglass protection... to prevent the screws in eyeglasses from loosening, apply a small drop of Maybellin e Crystal Clear Nail Polish to the threads of the screws before tightening them.

Cleaning liquid that doubles as bug killer... if menacing bees, wasps, hornets, or yellow jackets get in your home and you can't find the insecticide, try a spray of Formula 409. Insects drop to the ground

Hunt's Tomato Paste boil cure... cover the boil with Hunt's Tomato Paste as a compress. The acids from the tomatoes soothe the pain and bring the boil to a head.

Thought of the day. . .

2011-10-17T18:26:00.001-07:00

Bitch

2011-10-17T13:57:00.001-07:00

funny pic

2011-10-17T05:48:00.001-07:00

Mana mak? (SHARING)

2011-10-17T04:15:00.001-07:00

Jam 6.30 petang....

Mak berdiri di depan pintu. Wajah Mak kelihatan resah. Mak tunggu adik bungsu balik dari sekolah agama.

Ayah baru balik dari sawah.

Ayah tanya Mak, “Along mana?’

Mak jawab, “Ada di dapur tolong siapkan makan.”

Ayah tanya Mak lagi,” Angah mana?”

Mak jawab, “Angah mandi, baru balik main bola.”

Ayah tanya Mak, “Ateh mana?”

Mak jawab, “Ateh, Kak Cik tengok tv dengan Alang di dalam?”

Ayah tanya lagi, “Adik dah balik?”

Mak jawab, “Belum. Patutnya dah balik. Basikal adik rosak kot. Kejap lagi kalau tak balik juga jom kita pergi cari Adik.”

Mak jawab soalan ayah penuh yakin. Tiap-tiap hari ayah tanya soalan yang sama. Mak jawab penuh perhatian. Mak ambil berat di mana anak-anak Mak dan bagaimana keadaan anak-anak Mak setiap masa dan setiap ketika.

Dua puluh tahun kemudian

Jam 6.30 petang

Ayah balik ke rumah. Baju ayah basah. Hujan turun sejak tengahari.

Ayah tanya Along, “Mana Mak?”

Along sedang membelek-belek baju barunya. Along jawab, “Tak tahu.”

Ayah tanya Angah, “Mana Mak?”

Angah menonton tv. Angah jawab, “Mana Angah tahu.”

Ayah tanya Ateh, “Mana Mak?”

Ayah menunggu lama jawapan dari Ateh yang asyik membaca majalah.

Ayah tanya Ateh lagi, "Mana Mak?"

Ateh menjawab, “Entah.”

Ateh terus membaca majalah tanpa menoleh kepada Ayah.

Ayah tanya Alang, “Mana Mak?”

Alang tidak jawab. Alang hanya mengoncang bahu tanda tidak tahu.

Ayah tidak mahu tanya Kak Cik dan Adik yang sedang melayan facebook. Ayah tahu yang Ayah tidak akan dapat jawapan yang ayah mahu.

Tidak ada siapa tahu di mana Mak. Tidak ada siapa merasa ingin tahu di mana Mak. Mata dan hati anak-anak Mak tidak pada Mak. Hanya mata dan hati Ayah yang mencari-cari di mana Mak.

Tidak ada anak-anak Mak yang tahu setiap kali ayah bertanya, "Mana Mak?"

Tiba-tiba adik bungsu bersuara, “Mak ni dah senja-senja pun merayap lagi. Tak reti nak balik!!”

Tersentap hati Ayah mendengar kata-kata Adik.

Dulu anak-anak Mak akan berlari mendakap Mak apabila balik dari sekolah. Mereka akan tanya "Mana Mak?" apabila Mak tidak menunggu mereka di depan pintu.

Mereka akan tanya, "Mana Mak." Apabila dapat nombor 1 atau kaki melecet main bola di padang sekolah. Mak resah apabila anak-anak Mak lambat balik. Mak mahu tahu di mana semua anak-anaknya berada setiap waktu dan setiap ketika.

Sekarang anak-anak sudah besar. Sudah lama anak-anak Mak tidak bertanya 'Mana Mak?"

Semakin anak-anak Mak besar, soalan "Mana Mak?" semakin hilang dari bibir anak-anak Mak .

Ayah berdiri di depan pintu menunggu Mak. Ayah resah menunggu Mak kerana sudah senja sebegini Mak masih belum balik. Ayah risau kerana sejak akhir-akhir ini Mak selalu mengadu sakit lutut.

Dari jauh kelihatan sosok Mak berjalan memakai payung yang sudah uzur. Besi-besi payung tercacak keluar dari kainnya. Hujan masih belum berhenti. Mak menjinjit dua bungkusan plastik. Sudah kebiasaan bagi Mak, Mak akan bawa sesuatu untuk anak-anak Mak apabila pulang dari berjalan.

Sampai di halaman rumah Mak berhenti di depan deretan kereta anak-anak Mak. Mak buangkan daun-daun yang mengotori kereta anak-anak Mak. Mak usap bahagian depan kereta Ateh perlahan-lahan. Mak rasakan seperti mengusap kepala Ateh waktu Ateh kecil. Mak senyum. Kedua bibir Mak diketap repat. Senyum tertahan, hanya Ayah yang faham. Sekarang Mak tidak dapat lagi merasa mengusap kepala anak-anak seperti masa anak-anak Mak kecil dulu. Mereka sudah besar. Mak takut anak Mak akan menepis tangan Mak kalau Mak lakukannya.

Lima buah kereta milik anak-anak Mak berdiri megah. Kereta Ateh paling gah. Mak tidak tahu pun apa kehebatan kereta Ateh itu. Mak cuma suka warnanya. Kereta warna merah bata, warna kesukaan Mak. Mak belum merasa naik kereta anak Mak yang ini.

Baju mak basah kena hujan. Ayah tutupkan payung mak. Mak bagi salam. Salam Mak tidak berjawab. Terketar-ketar lutut Mak melangkah anak tangga. Ayah pimpin Mak masuk ke rumah. Lutut Mak sakit lagi.

Mak letakkan bungkusan di atas meja. Sebungkus rebung dan sebungkus kueh koci pemberian Mak Uda untuk anak-anak Mak. Mak Uda tahu anak-anak Mak suka makan kueh koci dan Mak malu untuk meminta untuk bawa balik. Namun raut wajah Mak sudah cukup membuat Mak Uda faham.

Semasa menerima bungkusan kueh koci dari Mak Uda tadi, Mak sempat berkata kepada Mak Uda, "Wah berebutlah budak-budak tu nanti nampak kueh koci kamu ni."

Sekurang-kurangnya itulah bayangan Mak. Mak bayangkan anak-anak Mak sedang gembira menikmati kueh koci sebagimana masa anak-anak Mak kecil dulu. Mereka berebut dan Mak jadi hakim pembuat keputusan muktamat. Sering kali Mak akan beri bahagian Mak supaya anak-anak Mak puas makan. Bayangan itu sering singgah di kepala Mak.

Ayah suruh Mak tukar baju yang basah itu. Mak akur.

Selepas Mak tukar baju, Ayah iring Mak ke dapur. Mak ajak anak-anak Mak makan kueh koci. Tidak seorang pun yang menoleh kepada Mak. Mata dan hati anak-anak Mak sudah bukan pada Mak lagi.

Mak hanya tunduk, akur dengan keadaan.

Ayah tahu Mak sudah tidak boleh mengharapkan anak-anak melompat-lompat gembira dan berlari mendakapnya seperti dulu.

Ayah temankan Mak makan. Mak menyuap nasi perlahan-lahan, masih mengharapkan anak-anak Mak akan makan bersama. Setiap hari Mak berharap begitu. Hanya Ayah yang duduk bersama Mak di meja makan setiap malam.

Ayah tahu Mak penat sebab berjalan jauh. Siang tadi Mak pergi ke rumah Mak Uda di kampung seberang untuk mencari rebung. Mak hendak masak rebung masak lemak cili api dengan ikan masin kesukaan anak-anak Mak.

Ayah tanya Mak kenapa Mak tidak telepon suruh anak-anak jemput. Mak jawab, "Saya dah suruh Uda telepon budak-budak ni tadi. Tapi Uda kata semua tak berangkat."

Mak minta Mak Uda telepon anak-anak yang Mak tidak boleh berjalan balik sebab hujan. Lutut Mak akan sakit kalau sejuk. Ada sedikit harapan di hati Mak agar salah seorang anak Mak akan menjemput Mak dengan kereta. Mak teringin kalau Ateh yang datang menjemput Mak dengan kereta barunya. Tidak ada siapa yang datang jemput Mak.

Mak tahu anak-anak mak tidak sedar telepon berbunyi. Mak ingat kata-kata ayah, “Kita tak usah susahkan anak-anak. Selagi kita mampu kita buat saja sendiri apa-apa pun. Mereka ada kehidupan masing-masing. Tak payah sedih-sedih. Maafkan sajalah anak-anak kita. Tak apalah kalau tak merasa menaiki kereta mereka sekarang. Nanti kalau kita mati kita masih ada peluang merasa anak-anak mengangkat kita kat bahu mereka.”

Mak faham buah hati Mak semua sudah besar. Along dan Angah sudah beristeri. Ateh, Alang, Kak Cik dan Adik masing-masing sudah punya buah hati sendiri yang sudah mengambil tempat Mak di hati anak-anak Mak.

Pada suapan terakhir, setitik air mata Mak jatuh ke pinggan.

Kueh koci masih belum diusik oleh anak-anak Mak.

Beberapa tahun kemudian

Mak Uda tanya Along, Angah, Ateh, Alang, Kak Cik dan Adik, “Mana mak?”.

Hanya Adik yang jawab, “Mak dah tak ada.”

Along, Angah, Ateh, Alang, Kak Cik dan Adik tidak sempat melihat Mak waktu Mak sakit.

Kini Mak sudah berada di sisi Tuhannya bukan di sisi anak-anak Mak lagi.

Dalam isakan tangis, Along, Angah, Ateh, Alang, Kak Cik dan Adik menerpa kubur Mak. Hanya batu nisan yang berdiri terpacak. Batu nisan Mak tidak boleh bersuara. Batu nisan tidak ada tangan macam tangan Mak yang selalu memeluk erat anak-anaknya apabila anak-anak datang menerpa Mak semasa anak-anak Mak kecil dulu.

Mak pergi semasa Along, Angah, Ateh, Alang, Kak Cik dan Adik berada jauh di bandar. Kata Along, Angah, Ateh, Alang, Kak Cik dan Adik mereka tidak dengar handphone berbunyi semasa ayah telepon untuk beritahu mak sakit tenat.

Mak faham, mata dan telinga anak-anak Mak adalah untuk orang lain bukan untuk Mak.

Hati anak-anak Mak bukan milik Mak lagi. Hanya hati Mak yang tidak pernah diberikan kepada sesiapa, hanya untuk anak-anak Mak..

Mak tidak sempat merasa diangkat di atas bahu anak-anak Mak. Hanya bahu ayah yang sempat mengangkat jenazah Mak dalam hujan renyai.

Ayah sedih sebab tiada lagi suara Mak yang akan menjawab soalan Ayah,

"Mana Along?" , "Mana Angah?", "Mana Ateh?", "Mana Alang?", "Mana Kak Cik?" atau "Mana Adik?". Hanya Mak saja yang rajin menjawab soalan ayah itu dan jawapan Mak memang tidak pernah silap. Mak sentiasa yakin dengan jawapannya sebab mak ambil tahu di mana anak-anaknya berada pada setiap waktu dan setiap ketika. Anak-anak Mak sentiasa di hati Mak tetapi hati anak-anak Mak ada orang lain yang mengisinya.

Ayah sedih. Di tepi kubur Mak, Ayah bermonolog sendiri, "Mulai hari ini tidak perlu bertanya lagi kepada Along, Angah, Ateh, Alang, Kak Cik dan Adik , "Mana mak?" "

Kereta merah Ateh bergerak perlahan membawa Ayah pulang. Along, Angah, Alang dan Adik mengikut dari belakang. Hati ayah hancur teringat hajat Mak untuk naik kereta merah Ateh tidak kesampaian. Ayah terbayang kata-kata Mak malam itu, "Cantiknya kereta Ateh, kan Bang? Besok-besok Ateh bawalah kita jalan-jalan kat Kuala Lumpur tu. Saya akan buat kueh koci buat bekal."

"Ayah, ayah....bangun." Suara Ateh memanggil ayah. Ayah pengsan sewaktu turun dari kereta Ateh..

Terketar-ketar ayah bersuara, "Mana Mak?"

Ayah tidak mampu berhenti menanya soalan itu. Sudah 10 tahun Mak pergi namun soalan "Mana Mak?" masih sering keluar dari mulut Ayah sehingga ke akhir usia.

Sebuah cerita pendek buat tatapan anak-anak. Kata orang hidup seorang ibu waktu muda dilambung resah, apabila tua dilambung rasa. Kata Rasulullah saw. ibu 3 kali lebih utama dari ayah. Bayangkanlah berapa kali ibu lebih utama dari isteri, pekerjaan dan anak-anak sebenarnya. Solat sunat pun Allah suruh berhenti apabila ibu memanggil. Berapa kerapkah kita membiarkan deringan telepon panggilan dari ibu tanpa berjawab?

Help. Someone shrank my jeans!!!!

2011-10-15T22:26:00.001-07:00

My two cents on this. I have been wearing practically the same pair of jeans for the past 10 years. And actually the same size for more then 15 years.
Granted, it is one of my favourite pair of jeans, having bought my FCUK jeans on a sale in UK back in 2000.
Like all women, I face weight gain and thus, my jeans shrinking, but I just refuse to give into the impulse to get a pair of jeans one size bigger as that would just encourage me to get lazy and get fatter.
I went through the torture and pain of forcibly squeezing myself into my old pair of jeans within 2 weeks of giving birth until I fit them again.
It is a motivation for me to fit into my old pair of FCUK jeans. When I feel my jeans shrink , it is time for me to cut back on excesses and start dieting a bit until my jeans is a comfortable fit again. It's a neverending cycle, but a small price to pay to more or less maintain my size and shape, though admittedly I am still a bit more flabby then I would have like and a little overweight as well by about 5-10 kg.
Until I loose the excess weight. . . Let's do it all over again. . .

Fear

2011-10-15T20:40:00.001-07:00

"I am fear. I am the menace that lurks in the path of life, never visible to the eye but sharply felt in the heart. I am the father of despair, the brother of procrastination, the enemy of progress, the tool of tyranny. Born of ignorance and nursed on misguided thought, I have darkened more hopes, stifled more ambitions, shattered more ideals and prevented more accomplishments than history could ever record.

"Like the changing chameleon, I assume many disguises. I masquerade as caution. I am sometimes known as doubt or worry. But whatever I'm called, am still fear, the obstacle of achievement.

"I know no master but one. It's name is understanding. I have no power but what the human mind gives me, and I vanish completely when the light of understanding reveals the facts as they really are, for I am really nothing."

"You see, if you have the courage to acknowledge your fears, you will be taking the first step toward controlling them instead of them controlling you. And if you take the next step toward understanding, you will be able to move past them to compassion,... perhaps even to love."

My would be new bag. . .

2011-10-14T06:01:00.001-07:00

Am seriously thinking of buying this bag. . . What do you think?

Char koay teow - The Malay version.

2011-10-06T08:52:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of a Malay style Char Koay Teow, usually cooked with prawns, cockle shells, flat rice noodles, beansprouts and egg. This is one of my favourite dishes I can rarely say 'no' to. It might seem unappetizing here in the picture to some, but it is somewhat quite delicious.
This one came home delivered , LOL, as the hawker who sold this lived near our house. He has a stall at the Taman Seri Gombak lake gardens.

2011-10-06T08:37:00.001-07:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful Friday and happy weekend!!!!! May you all have lots of fun, love and happiness with your loved ones.

Discipline or abuse?

2011-10-05T08:02:00.001-07:00

The saying goes. . . "spare the rod and spoil the child", but nowadays, even a teacher slapping a student is liable for child abuse when they use to condone public caning in school. As a result, quite a number of children are nowadays big bullies and hoodlums, where peers and even teachers fear them. Heck, even their parents fear them. Shockingly, they begin as early as even year 1 (standard 1) as I continuously have to comfort or counsel my little girl as her friends would threaten not to 'friend' her if she did not give or loan them, without much possibility of getting the money back, some money.
So, where is the fine line that seperates discipline and abuse? Having gone through some very tough childhood and having two teenagers and a precocious little diva, I think we have to discipline our children. But not with corporeal punishment all the time. Only when it is really serious and they really need to be taught a real lesson.
I went through a tough childhood. Every little mistake, including eating too slow, getting poor grades, or even events which has nothing to do with me, would warrant a pinch, a slap or being screamed at with a foul language. I was beaten plenty of times until I had blood clogged cane marks for a couple of days, or blue black bruises on my thighs. I cried, screamed and begged to no avail. When I tried running or evading, my punisher had even tied me up like a dog and caned me.
If I were to think on it, I think I only deserved being beaten thusly maybe 5% or less of the time.
I've lost my temper with my children many a times. And I whacked my eldest daughter less then 10 times in her entire life and that was only when she went far overboard on the rules we set out. Did things and said things that would embarrased and also hurt family.reputation, and it was never as terrible as I got it.
Now that I am older and somewhat wiser, I use a lot of other sly methods to keep my daughter in check, using rewards system and by threatening yucky but basically harmless stuff, like threatening to lick her ears or letting her sleep alone in the room, cutting off her tv access and so on. . . However, when she goes too far,then she gets whacked as well, but only after she has been warned.
So my opinion is, children need to be disciplined for their own good, but leave the harsh caning or spanking to when they really continue to flout the warnings you gave them and go over board too much. For other smaller 'crimes', just get creative and invent a punishment the child finds eecky or deprive her or him with his favourite toy, program or such. The results are almost the same, except, you'll get to raise a happier,and more confident child.
On a personal front, as a result of being abused, I grew up wary, scared, alone and I was even suicidal and took to self harming, that was all me before. . ., I met my husband. He was the one who made me the stronger and more complete person I am today. Every thing I am, is thanks to him, but that's a different story.
For you selfish people who just want to pick on the weaker ones, shame on you. Remember, what goes around can and will come around. If you just need a punching bag and are taking it out on your child, stepchild or a weaker one, you are such a loser and a damn coward. Discipline is NOT all about beatings. It is about love, and wanting to guide someone weaker down the right path to betterment. Corporeal punishment should be used sparingly.
That's my two cents input for today. . . .

Anne's wishlist

2011-10-05T01:09:00.001-07:00

This is the little dolly my little girl has her eyes on and has set her heart on. A "Baby Alive" doll. The more expensive version is quite freaky , I think, as it brings to mind Chucky of "Child's Play". . .

Brunch at The Loaf

2011-10-05T01:04:00.001-07:00

After being so ill and suddenly weak for more then 36 hours. I think I slept at least 26 hours away. . . I decided to force myself back to activity and well. . . Seeing my beloved husband had some appointment in Bangsar, I went to Bangsar Village to kill time and so call strengthen myself.
I popped into The Loaf Bistro there. Gorgeous ambience. Delightful choices of exquisite bread and pastries. I sat down and ordered a grilled mushroom served with some tomato salsa and cheddar cheese on a soft toast and a glass of apple, carrot and ginger juice.
The sandwich dressing and cheddar cheese was perhaps too rich for my weak stomach, but I loved the mushrooms and the salad. The juice was good too. Not too gingery.
However, after nearly 6 hours in my stomach, my stomach suddenly rebelled and I had to throw up the remains in my toilet.
Ok. Guess point taken. No more attempting to eat rich food for another couple of days at least. Sighhhhh

A Malay translated break up letter. . .

2011-10-02T04:39:00.001-07:00

(Tijah ingin memutuskan perhubungan dengan boyfriend Mat Salleh nya. .
Dia tak sanggup bertemu muka, lalu dia pun mengutus surat. Surat tu macam ni bunyinya. . . )

Tijah is a Malay girl who wanted to break up her relationship with her European boyfriend. . She couldn't bring herself to face him, so she decided to send him a letter using the dictionary. This is the letter

Hi, my motive write this letter is to give you know something.
I want to cut connection us. I have to think about this very cook cook.
I know I clap one hand only. Correctly, I have seen you and she together in town with eyes myself. You always ask for apology back back. I don't trust you again!!! You are really crocodile land.
My friend speak you play wood three. . Now I know you correct correct play wood three. So I break connection to pull my body from this love triangle. I know this result I pick is very correct, because you love she high from me. So, I break off to go far from here. I don't want you to play play with my liver. I have been crying until no more eye water thinking about you. I don't want banana to fruit two times. . Safe walk. .

Lunch at Tony Roma's

2011-10-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

My girls and I caught up with my cousin, and we went for lunch at Tony Roma's in Sunway Pyramid.
The ambience was really beautiful and soothing , and we got a nice view of Sunway Lagoon.
Knowing the portioning was probably huge as per American servings, we opted to share.
We ordered the beef ribs and beef medallions which came smothered with barbeque sauce, brocolli and mash potatoes, half a barbeced roast chicken with fries and coleslaw. And Anne took the opportunity to order the kids meal which was complimentary, fish and chips (which was in a surprisingly large portion and served with a sundae conprising of a vanilla ice cream and crushed oreo biscuits).
The verdict? The meat was all really scrumptious and melt in your mouth soft!!!!! I really loved it, it exceeded my expectations.
And yes, the waiting staff was just as good. Thumbs up for the waiting staff. They were really great!!! Energetic, friendly and personal.

Lunch. . .

2011-09-26T22:47:00.001-07:00

A simple homecooked lunch for me today. A simple tuna spaghetti I do so truly enjoy to pieces but my eldest daughter shy away from it because it's tuna and my beloved hubby declare it unappetizing to look at.
Just cooked with garlic, canned tuna with olive oil, olive oil, anchovy stock. . . And the taste is heavenly to my palate. Healthy too. .

Money. . Money. . Money

2011-09-22T15:14:00.001-07:00

I love money and I want money, don't get me wrong. And I'd love to be a millionaire if God will let me. I can pay off my debts, and create a wonderful life for my family and myself. Go for trips and all, buy anything I like and not worry about debtors chasing me. Put my kids in college and have enough to comfortably by.
But the chase for money can be frightfully scary as I see friends, peers, colleagues, clients and others sacrifice too much, their own health, their loved ones, their faith, their own dignity and self respect, and all just for money.
I have seen marriages break; colleagues overworking until they collapse, die or get sick; peers sleeping or having sex with potential clients for accounts, losing their dignity and self respect; colleagues forgetting they have children or spouses; and so much more. To them it becones a case of eat money, sleep money, live money and their motto is just money. Nothing else stands in their way and sadly, in my line of business, where clients investment is of utmost importance, it is not so with them. They put money as their most important factor, but oh no, not the clients money but their own. All these to achieve that brand new BMW in 6 months, or that Tod's or Louis Vuitton handbag.
They dress provocatively, go to work from as early as 5am and home only at 1 or 2am. And oh, back stab each other and also others, steal other people's agents or clients with no guilt at all. . . Children and spouse are neglected.
Oh dear God, please do not let me be like them. I pray for the strenght to continue as I am, hopefully to be even more successful then I already am, but never losing sight of what is most important in life, my family, my own health and God. May I live a moderate but comfortable life. . . amen

Over 50 million people in Asia are getting the latest updates from #ChurpChurp! Don't miss out on the fun here!

2011-09-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

Over 50 million people in Asia are getting the latest updates from #ChurpChurp! Don't miss out on the fun here!

Couple who sponsored maid's studies awarded.

2011-09-15T03:15:00.001-07:00

A Malaysian couple fully sponsored the tuition fees for their Indonesian maid to get a diploma to improve her living standards back on Indonesia . The maid got her diploma in the Open University Malaysia and is now holding a top post in a private company back in Indonesia.
The couple are now also winners of the F&N Outdo yourself Awards, which I whole heartedly agree they deserve. It takes a rare person to really have the heart to do something like this for a maid.
Sadly, too many people around believe that maids are meant to be treated as maids or even worse, slaves. Too many people do not think that these maids have feelings too, and dreams.
The Indonesian maid Sarmini was really lucky to have met wonderful people like Mr Tan Choo Tang and his wife, Mdm Wee Phooi Kuan who really went out of their way to help make their maid's life more better.
Kudos and thumbs up to Mr Tan and Mdm Wee.

Graduation from EnPro

2011-09-12T16:42:00.001-07:00

I joined the enhanced productivity class to refresh my skills and also get new ideas to.improve myself and to provide a better service to my existing clients , back in July and well, in the process , got to know fabulous people . . Aini , Zara, Ruzi, Safiah, Wan, Kenny, Diana and Fauzi , all who are a part of my team, the Mighty eagles. . . including a lot of other friends.
Today is our graduation and we say goodbye to all and maintain friendship with most.
To all EnPro 9 friends reading this, thanks for your support all this while. Couldn't have done it or enjoy it that much without you. To all facilitators, Fauzi, Faizal, Leon, Sean, Siva and all, especially our ' headmaster' En Jamal. We'll never forget you. Hugs and thanks ever so much.

Me on graduation day!!! It was suppose to be a 70s theme. I am not sure if I got it right, but, well. . .

Of eBooks and other applications for your android phone

2011-09-12T07:04:00.001-07:00

If you own an android phone, or tablet , like me, let me tell you about a wonderful site I found on cyberspace.
I am a book worm and I do so love my novels. Now I found this amazing site where I can download all the novels I want, and the latest ones for free!!!
I get amazing epub book downloads as well as other applications etc.
http://www.mobiles24.com

Enjoy. . .

Crocodile's teeth

2011-09-12T00:58:00.001-07:00

Crocodile and their teeth

2011-09-11T23:48:00.001-07:00

We visited the crocodile farm recently and came back with a hard to get and unique souvenir, crocodile's tooth. Or teeth, because we got three of them. One for my eldest daughter, one for my husband and one for me.
According to some old wives tales, there is a medicinal property in the tooth where if you have a toothache, you can get the crocodile tooth and grind it against a stone or something to get the powder. This powder, you can rub on your tooth ache and then, it is believe the pain will go away!!!
Not sure if we will try that out, but we are keeping the teeth as souvenirs , a locket or a charm.. .

Conquering my fear of snakes. . .

2011-09-11T23:12:00.001-07:00

Yummy hawker's seafood

2011-09-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I, we had a break from the kids, my girls, as one went back to her grandmother's place in Penang and one followed my sister in law, her aunty off for a few days to spent some time with her favourite cousin.
So he took me to one of the best hawker centres in KL or PJ, which was the Damansara Uptown Hawkers Centre. We ordered and shared a plate of oyster omelete, a plate of spicy bamboo lala/ shellfish and a plate of grilled stingray. It was scrumptious. And I definitely enjoyed having my husband to just myself for these few days, just like when it was just the two of us, during the early years of marriage.
Wonderful company and great food for very reasonable.prices. What else can a woman ask for? Ermm . . .

Beautiful children

2011-08-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of my adopted sister, Rose's children. They are juat so adorable. The boy's name is Adam and the girl's name is Orchid. They are Dutch.
Today is Adam's birthday, so I'd love to wish him a very happy birthday and may good health, love, happiness and success always be with him.

Hungry Ghosts versus Ramadhan

2011-08-03T04:54:00.001-07:00

This year, the Chinese Hungry Ghost month begins from the end of July – running between 31st July to the 28th August 2011. The Night of the Hungry Ghost (where the Chinese believes the gates of the underworld completely open) falls on the 15th night of the 7th lunar month; on the western calendar this is on the
14th August 2011.
On the other hand, it is also the month of Ramadhan.. And according to the Muslims, the gates of hell are closed for this duration and heaven beckons...
..... ..... So how?
Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone

42-42-42, the simple secret of keeping fit, without going to the gym.

2011-07-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

According to both Jack La Lanne and also Joe Girard (the world's greatest salesman), the very simple secret of keeping fit is just cutting down starch, eating more protein and fruit , eating bran for breakfast, fasting once a week and well, doing the following:-
42 situps every morning and every night,
42 pushups every morning and every night from a position on your knees,
42 bicycle kicks every morning and every night from a position on your back.

I just started that regime with the hope of toning down the extra flab in my body.. So wish me luck.. :-p
Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Happy Anniversary my beloved husband...

2011-07-30T07:20:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow marks my husband and my 8th anniversary. We've weathered all storms, sunny days and so on together. Our 7th year old daughter is a bonus that makes our life richer.
To my beloved husband, words are never enough to express how much you mean to me and how much your presence in my life made me stronger and more independent then I ever was.
You are my everything and I love you dearly. Thanks for sharing all these 8 years with me and I hope and pray we will share many more wondrous years together, raising our children and growing old together....
Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Sate Lilit

2011-07-18T23:31:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with Sate Lilit in Bali back last year and out of curiosity, I saw this restaurant, aptly named "Ole-ole Bali" and found the menu here!!!
It was yummy.. Like otak2.. And the deco and ambience was typical Balinese. Definitely will come back for more Balinese fix in the future... :-p
Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone

A silly story... :-p

2011-07-03T00:15:00.001-07:00

Bruno Mars had a Grenade and Taio Cruz had a Dynamite, so they both threw it at Avril Lavigne and Katy Perry, Avril Lavigne Fall Into Pieces, whilst Katy Perry exploded like Fireworks. The bang was so loud that the Black Eyed Peas forgot The Time and Rihanna suffered a memory loss, running around asking,"What's My Name?" Eminem shrugged it off announcing,"I'm Not Afraid", then Willow Smith started to Whip her Hair, which shocked Far East Movement who flew like a G6. Nelly then work up sighing that it was Just A Dream.
Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone

The two Angels...

2011-06-29T21:45:00.001-07:00

Two travelling angels stopped to spend the night in the home of a wealthy family. The family was rude and refused to let the angels stay in the mansion's guest room.

Instead the angels were given a small space in the cold basement. As they made their bed on the hard floor, the older angel saw a hole in the wall and repaired it.

When the younger angel asked why, the older angel replied, "Things aren't always what they seem."

The next night the pair came to rest at the house of a very poor, but very hospitable farmer and his wife.

After sharing what little food they had the couple let the angels sleep in their bed where they could have a good night's rest.

When the sun came up the next morning the angels found the farmer and his wife in tears. Their only cow, whose milk had been their sole income, lay dead in the field.

The younger angel was infuriated and asked the older angel how could you have let this happen?
The first man had everything, yet you helped him, she accused.

The second family had little but was willing to share everything, and you let the cow die.

"Things aren't always what they seem," the older angel replied. "When we stayed in the basement of the mansion, I noticed there was gold stored in that hole in the wall. Since the owner was so obsessed with greed and unwilling to share his good fortune, I sealed the wall so he wouldn't find it."

"Then last night as we slept in the farmer's bed, the angel of death came for his wife. I gave him the cow instead. Things aren't always what they seem."

Sometimes that is exactly what happens when things don't turn out the way they should. If you have faith, you just need to trust that every outcome is always to your advantage. You just might not know it until some time later..

Yesterday is history. Tomorrow a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why it's called the present!

SOMEBODY NEEDS YOU TO SEND THIS TO HIM/HER ===

Never take away anyone's hope
Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone

OMG... The things youngsters do for material / branded things!!!

2011-06-24T01:19:00.000-07:00

I read in the Sun and also the Star about how a secondary schoolgirl had sex with 9 men over a weekend for RM1800 to buy an iPhone!! And they use Facebook, online sex forums and sex sites to do it.
As a mother and stepmother of 2 teenage girls, it is so scary!!! But what makes me wonder is how their parents don't bother where their children is?! I mean, they can ever offer overnight sex and such? What kind of parents never wonder or query and ask where their daughter is or do a spot check on them? Do they just take whatever stories their daughter or son cooks up at face value and never check?
As a parent, I do spot checks from time to time, and trying to be a cool mom at the same time, I allow my daughter a little freedom, but always check to make sure she is where she says she is. I allow my daughter her "boyfriend" too, with a strict warning that they should NOT cross the line. But fortunately, my daughter has a kind of long distance relationship with the current boy she claims as her boyfriend and he seems responsible and a good influence to her. They hardly meet but keep in touch via facebook and sms but I do check from time to time... Parents, please, for heaven's sake, check on what or where your kids are, not just let them do all they want without any monitoring !!!
All for the sake of some branded item or gadget they can show off to their friends, these kids lose all their morals and pride. Is it really worth it?

Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Memorable quotes taken off #TheNoteboook

2011-06-23T21:40:00.001-07:00

There's a 'lie' in believe. 'over' in lover. 'end' in friend. 'us' in trust. 'if' in life... Maybe that's what makes us all human.

If people don't like me, it's mind over matter. I really don't mind, and they really don't matter.

Stop worrying so much, it will all be okay in the end. If it's not okay, then it's not the end.

I LOVE YOU; 3 seconds to say, 3 hours to explain, and a lifetime to prove.

Don't worry! You may think you'll "never" get over it, but you also thought it would last "forever".

A person who is emotionally free has no desire to convince, insist, beg, seduce, manipulate or control.; they are free to love.

Trust that everything has a reason. Look for that reason rather than focusing on the chaos. Keep your mind open to the bigger picture.

Happy relationships don't mean everything's perfect, it just means you've decided to look beyond the imperfections

It's hard to explain something to a person who doesn't want to understand.

Real men don't love the most beautiful girl in the world, they love the girl who can make their world the most beautiful

The person who has truly loved you is the only one who has the strength to accept your mistakes and forgive you.
Sent by Maxis from my BlackBerry® smartphone