paws&whiskers

Haidan's chocolate drama

2012-01-18T01:27:00.001Z

At about 9pm last night, I was telling Haidan off to bed and being a cheeky monkey he was, he sneaked into his Nenek's room and took a bite on one of the posh chocs we had left. 5 mins after that, his lips started to swell:

Not too long after that his lips was swollen and his eyes starts watery and itchy.

10 mins later, Haidan's face was swollen including the white eye. Obviously, by then we rushed him off to hospital.

Turned out he got an allergic reaction to the posh chocs he had..... Sigh, looks like you just have to settle with cheap chocs.

Tiger Crossing

2012-01-11T04:51:00.001Z

Mama: Haidan, this is called a 'Zebra crossing' because of the black and white stripes.Haidan: Oh....(Moments later, with full excitement on his face)Haidan: Mama, look! That's called a 'Tiger Crossing' because of the black and yellow stripes!!!!

Brasserie Vacherin

2011-11-16T05:59:00.001Z

Yummy!!!

Busy Me

2011-11-12T01:59:00.000Z

Since I got back from KL, it has been busy ever since. I start work full time and by the time balik, sure terbabas tidur with Haidan and Hairee- most of the time si Mama yang berdengkur dulu while trying to get the boys to sleep lah kannnn... eheh.

I meant to blog sooner as lots of things have happened and it's such a shame if I don't record it somewhere.

Well, hopefully will be able to catch up. It's going to be a bit busier this coming weeks with Haidan's party preparations- yes, my Haidan is turning 4 next week. How time flies is beyond me. My little baby is a big boy now, no longer a toddler.... Sigh.

It just seems like yesterday I held him like a baby (with his e-ting and all).

Haidan & Hairee

2011-11-12T01:35:00.001Z

..... On 11.11.11

Testing....

2011-11-11T21:53:00.001Z

.... Testing.

Blogging with my new app on my mobile.

Ok ke ni??!!

Wordless Wednesday #1

2011-08-17T18:10:00.001+01:00

12 days to go....

2011-08-16T14:16:00.002+01:00

.... till I'm back in KL!!! So can't wait!

I have been so busy doing all the shopping for people at home (well, mostly for my best friend Vas and god-daughter Aleeshya lah kannn) and preparing for visa and ILR applications.

I have yet to sort out our family holiday photos and especially cleaning up my mac memory! Must sort this out lah!

OK, got to go....

Karma

2011-08-12T16:36:00.002+01:00

I always believe that what goes around, comes back around. If you do good things, then good things will come to you.... and vice versa. Hence, it reminds me to treat people the way I want to be treated.

GLEE!!!!!!

2011-06-26T13:56:00.002+01:00

Live in London, tonight at 8pm at O2 arena. See you there!

Supermom Saturday

2011-06-25T21:03:00.003+01:00

Today I had to put my supermom cape on as Hubby had his weekend class. Haidan, Hairee and I were rushing everywhere, poor Hairee had to be fed in the car most of the day!

Started off since 7.30am, getting the boys ready and breakfast and by 9.30am, we were off! I sent Haidan for his tennis lesson at 10am and soon after we headed straight to the nursery for their 25th anniversary celebration. Haidan was so in his "zone" - ignoring me completely and went off playing with his friends. He only came back for food! Among the chaos, I managed to take a picture of him and one of his good mates, Manas.

From then, we rushed off for Haidan's swim class at 1pm and made it on time. I managed to catch a breather and changed Hairee's nappy in the changing room. After swimming, we went to Toys R Us in Purley to get a special Cars 2 treat for Haidan (since he behaved really well at swimming).

It was here that I almost lost him! I was looking at some baby dummies and didn't realised Haidan went off my sight. A couple of minutes later, I called him out but Haidan didn't answer. In a panic, I spent the next 5-10minutes looking for him! I told the staff and the store manager and they shut the main doors. Luckily one of the staff pointed out Haidan, who was happily playing at the slides - which was quite close to where I was originally. But the fact that he didn't answer my call, I couldn't notice him. Albeit being angry at Haidan, I was so relieved!!! He got a time-out and vowed not to run off ever again.

We finally got home around 6pm. But the day didn't end as yet - Hairee suddenly decided to be very cranky and unsettled. He was crying all evening and I was so helpless. At 10pm, everyone finally settled down!

Hairee meets Zulaikha

2011-06-22T23:33:00.001+01:00

Cars 2

2011-06-15T15:18:00.003+01:00

The UK premiere of Cars 2 is July 22nd.

I so can't wait - not because I am a huge fan, but I just want to get it over and done with as Haidan is so obsessed with it now.

Every single day he will ask me, "Mama, are we watching Cars 2 today???" and everytime I will answer "Not yet".

Everything is about Lightning McQueen now. Haidan eats and sleeps with his Cars toys and insists he wears only 'LightQueen' spentots (underpants)! It's driving me crazy!!!

Tho... saying that, one thing good I noticed was that because of his obsession with Cars, Haidan can now managed to put his Cars puzzle together all by himself! Well done Haidan!

Bye Papa (again)

2011-06-15T10:27:00.004+01:00

It's gonna be a hectic week (again).

Hubby left for Dubai, last minute as usual, and I have to put on my supermom cape (again).

Thank you

2011-06-14T09:52:00.000+01:00

Last Saturday we had a BBQ party at my place to catch up with dear old friends in the UK. They all came to visit Hairee and it was really good to see them again. The last time we ALL got together (minus Kak Zihan lah) was when Haidan was born, so it was good coincidence that this time around it was for Hairee.

I am so thankful to have them- some I've known for years (Hawari dah 12 tahun kenal!) and it's good that until now our friendship is still strong. It shows me that it doesn't matter if we don't call or see each other everyday, but the respect and care is still there. It's so good to know that we were celebrating good news of Kak Aznim, Lee and Peyruh moving into their new home, Zura's engagement and Hawari's new job. Meeting them again reminds me of good sincere friendships, which I know will last for a lifetime.

And with that, I am so thankful.

Alhamdulillah.

My Spice Babies

2011-06-06T16:06:00.004+01:00

I was going through our storage closet to get Haidan's old baby clothes for Hairee when I found something special from my memorable Spice Girls concert - the Spice Baby bib!

Here's an old picture of Haidan in Jan 2008, wearing the bib when he was about 7 weeks old.

And here's Hairee in Jun 2011, wearing the same bib!

Hehehehe, can you spot the difference?

Get ready to Wiggle!!!

2011-06-04T13:09:00.000+01:00

Due to last year's success concert, Haidan and I booked ourselves to watch the Wiggles Live 2011 in HMV London Apollo in Hammersmith. Although Hubby left (last minute as usual) for Dubai, it did not deter me to cancel the trip. For me, Haidan deserves a treat, especially with Hairee's arrival and all... I had not spend as much time as I wanted with Haidan. So, we called Sarah our trusted babysitter to look after Hairee for the day and off we went.

Haidan was all excited since the night before. He insisted to wear his Wiggles t-shirt and hat for the day. We also made a paper guitar to pass to Murray - Haidan's favourite Wiggle member.

A Percy (train) and Thomas (tube) ride later, we arrived at London's HMV Apollo.

Hot potatoes, it's The Wiggles!!!! They performed some of their greatest hits (though I was expecting a bit more)... lots of new songs, which Haidan wasn't familiar with though. But all of them were still wiggling despite them all in their late 40s/ early 50s!

A surprise appearance from Jeff Wiggles who fell asleep amidst it all. Haidan and the kids then shouted "Wake Up Jeff!!!" and he was back greeting the kids hello.

The highlight of the day was when Murray Wiggles personally accepted Haidan's guitar! We were very lucky and Haidan was so star-struck, he was just left speechless when he met his guitar idol in real life!

Thank you Wiggles!!!!

Bye Papa

2011-06-03T15:37:00.000+01:00

Hubby is off to his monthly business trip to Dubai and Brunei from today till next Tuesday.

So, time to put my Supermom cape on coz I'm anticipating long hours of restless nights, toddler tantrums and baby tempers! Bring on the caffeine and iron tablets - I need all the energy I can get!

Time is flying too fast....

2011-06-01T15:36:00.003+01:00

... and my boys are growing up too fast.

Hairee can now respond with a smile if I call him.... (awwww)

and Haidan no longer wants to respond if I call him..... (sigh)

Mumbai Memories

2011-05-26T13:52:00.007+01:00

It is about a year today that I was in Mumbai visiting my best friend, Vasantha and my god-daughter Aleeshya. I was flicking through the photos and remembered the trip so well.

The week I was there, Vasantha took really good care of me - making sure I take in as much as Mumbai could offer. We went on a city tour to sample Mumbai's rich history (Ghandi), magnificent architectures (gateway to India), diversity (palaces and slums) and of course the yummy curries.

And speaking of curries, it was here in Mumbai that I have tasted my favourite type of curry - The Mumbai Green Masala. I loved it so much that I made Aida (Vasantha's helper) to cook it again before I left Mumbai and of course, noted down the recipe. So, to celebrate my one year Mumbai memories, I decided to cook it today:

1) First blend coriander leaves, mint leaves, cinnamon, cumin, green chillies and pepper corns with some water. This is the masala paste and is left to set.

2) Also, marinate chicken pieces with chopped garlic, onion, ginger and salt and set aside.

3) Heat oil in pan. When ready, fry sliced onions and some curry leaves until 'naik bau'.

3) Then add in chopped tomatoes and potatoes and fry till potatoes are cooked.

4) Then mix in the masala paste in (1) and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

5) Last but not least, add in the chicken pieces and mix well. Simmer till 'naik minyak'.

6) Finish off with salt and sugar to taste and our Mumbai Green Masala is ready, hoorrraayyyyy!!! (clap, clap, clap).

Desperate Housewife

2011-05-26T00:06:00.003+01:00

Since my last post, I was kept on my toes juggling Haidan, Hairee and Hubby.

On good days, Hubby comes home early and we all sat down together for dinner. Haidan gives a big kiss before bed and Hairee slept through the night.

But on bad days, Hubby comes home late and missed dinner. Haidan throws a tantrum before bed and Hairee decides to play through the night.

Yes, it has been a roller-coaster month. I did a daily schedule just to get myself organised and it did helped quite a bit. Most of the things I wanted to achieve has been done:

1) Breastfeeding is going well, Alhamdulillah. I think I managed to compile about 80 packs of frozen milk stored from my daily morning expressing.

2) I have lost weight and inches since I gave birth. Though I know I can do much better without the Doritos and Oreos... and start on my Wii Fit as soon as possible. Yes, Hubby gave me a Wii Fit for my 34th birthday and it is still in the box, ooops!

3) Caught up with the latest episodes of Vampire Diaries and Desperate Housewives.

4) We managed to squeeze in a short family trip to Liverpool. Although we just stayed one night as hubby was working and it was tiring (4 hours drive to Liverpool and back), but it was really nice. It was just good to get away from home and I was really happy to see Hubby and Haidan enjoying themselves together- it has been a while since we all just spent quality time out.

5) I have braved the town with Haidan and Hairee in tow all by myself. Hard work but the fresh air was worth it.

All in all in the past month, I was really living the desperate housewife life- keeping myself busy trying to be the perfect mom and wife. There were days when I knew I did a good job but most days feeling overwhelmed by it all. I enjoyed the moments of laughter with my 2 boys and also the tears when it got a bit too much, especially from the exhaustion of it all. But I will cherish this coz I may not get this chance again to spend as much time with my boys. Also nothing beats a big thank you hug from your loved ones after a long day... knowing that hey, I might not be the perfect housewife... but at least I'm appreciated.

Busy busy busy

2011-05-03T21:43:00.003+01:00

Today marks the first day I'm left on my own as a full time mom. Got up for Hairee's morning feed at 8am and then got Haidan ready for nursery. While Haidan has his breakfast, I expressed my daily breastmilk for storage. Then Hubby sends Haidan off to nursery and I'm off to bed again.

At 11am, Hairee's awake for his next feed. This is when I'll officially get up for breakfast and then mandi and get ready. I then mandikan Hairee and from 2-5pm, I have the whole 3 hours to catch up with housework and prepare for dinner.

Today Hubby comes home early but from tomorrow onwards, I will have to get ready at 5pm to go and pick up Haidan from nursery. It will then be crazy after as I will have to juggle with getting a stubborn toddler for his bath+dinner and a clingy baby who can't be left alone for more than 5 minutes!

It will be a bit of an experiment on how I can cope in the next couple of days but hopefully I can establish a routine good enough to sort out Haidan, Hairee, the housework and fit in some well deserved 'me' time in a day.

Another year older...

2011-05-02T22:28:00.002+01:00

... and another year wiser.

My 34th birthday is my official (self declared) pantang off-day. So the first thing we did was to go enjoy my long awaited Oreo milkshake! Horrraaayyyyyy!

Today is also my self-declared official independence day - the day where Papa and Mummy are no longer here to help around leaving Hubby and I to manage 2 kids all on our own! The thought was quite scary as we have taken them for granted for the past month.

Anyways, this year's birthday celebration is just me with my family. It was a simple lunch meal with the ones that matter most to me and it was lovely. I learnt from the past that to enjoy the present I must not worry too much about the future - just take one day at a time and enjoy every moment of it.

Happy birthday me :)

Hairee's got acne...

2011-04-28T17:01:00.003+01:00

... and lots of it! They just sprout on his face all of a sudden, kesian sangat tengok dia. There's even some crusty yellow bits on his eyebrows!!

But with all of that Hairee doesn't seem to mind at all, sigh... bless!

Hairee's first visitors

2011-04-23T18:35:00.004+01:00

The past week, the weather has been glorious! Unfortunately, I don't really get to enjoy it much since I'm still sticking to my pantang commitment. Hairee's doing really well - he's now 3.5kg and we can see his legs and arms getting 'plumpier'. His feeding is also more regular and predictable and breastfeeding has improved much for me too.

Although I didn't get to go out, we were lucky to have guests coming to visit Hairee and me. A big thank you shout-out to them for the lovely gifts for Hairee (and for Haidan too!).

Kate & Lorraine:

Mel, John, Ian and baby Bella:

Carolina:

Devina:

Also, visits from Abi & Asha, Safina & Karen and Surindran & Deviga.

My pantang so far

2011-04-10T17:32:00.003+01:00

It has been just after 10 days since I gave birth to Hairee and Alhamdulillah, I am recovering really well. As compared to the pantang I had with Haidan (which was really stressful!), I felt like I'm 80% normal. Mostly is just the tiredness of getting up at 12am and 3am for Hairee's feed and nappy change but other than that I'm feeling allright. I do need more time to heal (especially for my stitches) and I think my urut session did me wonders.

Breastfeeding is better, no more engorgement pain... though I am beginning to worry already if I will have enough milk. I have started manual expressing yesterday just to relieve my engorgement when Hairee decides to have a longer nap than usual but I am not ready for the electric breast pump yet... well at least not till Hairee is 2 weeks old.

Weight? I was 75kg at the heaviest during my pregnancy and am now 66kg. So not too bad actually. I need to lose 10kg more to get back to normal and I'm so happy to report that I can still fit my first PB set. So will try and wear it from day 14 onwards.

Now that I'm physically more stable, I'm already lining up my activities to accomplish this month. I plan to:
1) Move my contacts from BB to Mac (ready for Iphone)
2) Start mobilising my important notes from my old Moleskin to the new one
3) Learn to use the electric breastpump
4) Start wearing my PB

Don't want the list to be too long because I want the goals to be achievable by 30th April.

Project Potty Update

2011-04-07T17:11:00.002+01:00

Hari ini dalam sejarah.

A great milestone - Haidan managed to use the potty to do his first ever yak-yak all by himself!

My final phase of labour

2011-03-30T16:33:00.004+01:00

2am: Checked in St Helier's Labour Ward. I was 2cm dilated. Midwife advised us to get some rest as the next check will be at 6am.

6am: The morning shift midwives arrived- Lorraine and Amanda. My contractions are now more regular, I was 4cm dilated. The midwives had to strap me in with the fetal monitor but the reading was unstable as I moved a lot.

9am: The consultants came to visit and advised to put a proper hearbeat monitor clipped on baby's head for better monitoring. At this stage I started to use my gas&air.

From then onwards, I did not remember what time it was or who came by. All I can recollect was being very high on my gas&air and how I squeezed Hubby's hand every time a contractyion came. I also remembered Hubby giving me sips of water and lucozade in between contractions.

I remembered asking permission to have something to eat since I haven't had breakfast, but got refused just in case I needed a C-section (which made me more determined to tahan the pain). I also remembered getting into upright positions which helped ease my back pain and I kept remembering Haidan's face to ease the contraction pains.

11am: Consultant came in to check on me and I was already 6cm dilated. My water broke. Consultant found that my waters contained meconium.

12pm: I feel very strong urges to push but I wasn't fully dilated. I was begging them why am I not allowed to push but Hubby told me to just take in deep breaths. I think I did make loud noises and probably swore a bit - not sure coz too high on gas&air.

12.30pm: I was getting really irritated to push baby out. The consultant came in and gave the midwives a go ahead to proceed. Hubby saw baby's head crowning and I remembered pressing down and pushing as much as I can. I was so determined not to let the baby get stuck (and lead to distress and lead to forceps or emergency c-sect), that I just pushed without even waiting for the contractions.

12.53pm: Baby Hairee was born!

From then on, I was totally numbed out and high and could barely remember the placenta being out and had stitches coz I did tear. But it didn't matter coz I did it - I finally get to give birth naturally!!! I got my VBAC wish!!!

And Alhamdulillah, baby Hairee was given the all clear after his meconium scare and I could hear his sweet cries as I cuddled him. Baby Hairee Alief Hasli was born at 2.76kg, 50cm on 30.03.11 at 12.53pm at St Heliers Hospital, Sutton.

My first phase of labour

2011-03-29T09:24:00.004+01:00

7am: Started to feel the early mild contractions. Felt like period cramps. Timed it - it lasts 35-40s and is 5-10minutes apart. Coping with breathing. Had a 'show'.

9am: Had breakfast and said goodbye to Haidan as he was whisked off to nursery by Atuk & Nenek. Gave him the longest morning cuddle, just in case I won't get to see him later :(

12pm: After a short nap, had a shower and had Mee Bandung with root-beer float for lunch. Can still feel the mild contractions but not as consistent as this morning. Could it be false alarm? Still have my 'show', so am wearing a pad now.

2pm: Off to St Heliers for my consultant appointment for a membrane sweep. The consultant decided to NOT give me a sweep since I am progressing (yeayyy!!!).

7pm: Contractions seems to be more regular during dinner time, each lasting 40s every 5-10 minutes. So I scoffed down as much A&W root beer float as I can just in case, eheh...

12am: Contractions still 40s every 5-10 minutes but intensity is getting stronger. Managed to watch the whole episode of CSI with Hubby before Hubby called in the hospital to say we're coming.

My hope for a VBAC

2011-03-26T18:59:00.002Z

My official due date was yesterday, 25th March 2011.

Unfortunately, baby was too comfortable to even give me the slightest sign that it's ready to come out. Unlike with Haidan, who came 2 weeks early I am quite surprised I'm still pregnant.... (especially when I have announced to every person I know that most likely baby is coming earlier than my due date!).

Hubby and I went to see the Consultant at St Heliers yesterday for a check-up. I was quite disappointed that Dr Croucher was not free and a junior doctor, Dr Anne saw me instead. She said baby is in perfect position and baby's heart rate is active and good. She also did an internal examination, giving me a slight sweep which released my 'show'.

Dr Anne is quite confident that labour should commence within the next couple of days, but if it hasn't then I'm due to come back on Tues 29th for another internal sweep. If all else fail, I have a C-section booked for Tues 5 April 2011 - (41w + 4d).

On one hand, I'm getting quite fed-up being pregnant as it is getting more difficult to rest and sleep. My backache is getting worst and I'm irritated with my sudden stuffy nose. I'm also worried that the longer the baby arrives, the less time I have with Papa & Mummy helping me out.

But on the other hand, pushing my C-sect date to 10 days could give me the chance to experience the natural birth I have always wanted. The chance to give birth the way nature intends to without medical intervention and hopefully letting my body recover naturally. I am really praying that my wish for a successful VBAC will come true. I have done more research now on VBACs and am ready mentally (and hopefully physically) to face natural birth with minimum intervention. I plan to just use gas and air at the very end of labour (>7cm). My hope is that I can dilate and progress OK within the next 10 days to avoid having another miserable C-sect experience.

Sigh... come on baby, let's work together now OK.... Mama so can't wait to see you sayang.

Can we fix it? Yes, we can!!!!

2011-03-24T15:08:00.002Z

Haidan, the mat-kepoh-chi, insisted to help his Atuk out with the DIYs using his Thomas screw driver.

Time is near and help is here....

2011-03-20T22:28:00.002Z

Papa and Mummy arrived yesterday, Alhamdulillah. Haidan was so excited his Atuk and Nenek is around, it was a struggle trying to put him to bed last night!

To be honest, I'm so relieved that they are around coz it makes staying home juggling a cheeky toddler while carrying a huge bump a lot easier.

I have 5 days to go to due date and am already feeling the slight twitches of contractions a.k.a Braxton-Hicks and sleeping has proven to be really uncomfy. I get cramps and feel so kebas on my leg and hips every night and my back aches every morning I wake up from bed.

I really hope that I get to give birth naturally this time around coz I want to at least experience it. I know it will take a lot of pain bearing, but I'm willing to give it a go without epidural this time. Hopefully just with gas and air. I am watching One Born Every Minute religiously to get myself mentally and physically prepared for labour.

Insyallah I pray all will go well.... amin.

ooooohhhhh.... me like this

2011-03-18T09:40:00.003Z

As an incentive to 1 of my 5 2011 resolutions, this little gadget here has caught my eye. It would be perfect to materialise my Projek-Celik-IT goal wherever I go:

The Ipad 2 with 3G

Me like....

Me want....

Me need....

Project Bathroom Completed!

2011-03-16T16:35:00.007Z

Since the last update, my bathroom project has progressed in full steam! Here are the updates...

Main wall tiling continued:

Mosaic tiling completed:

Heater installed and tested:

Shower wall tiling:

Power shower installed:

Laminate flooring completed, new sink and WC installed:

Shower screen glass installed:

And finally, adding the finishing touches... I present to you our new guest bathroom a.k.a family shower room:

Hip Hip Hooorrrraaaaaayyyyyyy!!!! (Clap Clap Clap)

Happy Birthday Papa

2011-03-12T10:13:00.000Z

Happy times

2011-03-08T22:12:00.003Z

Was going through some old photos and can't help not posting these pics - we took it when Sutton was hit by heavy snow on the second week of Dec 2010.

It was such a fun day playing in the snow as a family, siap dengan gayung semua (hehehe Melayu tak???)

I remembered Haidan was so excited and loved the snow so much, his fingers were all numb from the cold coz he didn't want to stop playing.

Sigh.... not sure we'll ever see such heavy snow again. Happy times.....

You know It's not too long now...

2011-03-08T21:26:00.003Z

.... when it's a struggle wearing socks in the morning to rush to work!

OMG, time passes so fast. I'm gonna be 38 weeks this Friday - which means baby can come anytime now!

Yes I do feel a lot heavier and definitely more restricted when I move about. Though to be honest, I think I did quite OK with my weight gain this time around as compared with when I was carrying Haidan.

Firstly, I am all bump. Yup, my tummy seems to extend forward as the weeks go by... as compared to being 'wide' sideways when I carried Haidan.

Secondly, my weight gain is steady. I started of at 62kg and now I'm 70kg after 9 months.... as compared to baloon-ing from 54kg to 74kg when I carried Haidan.

Thirdly, I have virtually no stretchmarks on my tummy.... as compared to horrible red 'kena-cakar harimau' all over my tummy, hips and arms when I carried Haidan.

Hmmmm.... maybe I didn't eat as much as before and obviously Haidan kept me on my toes most of the time. Of course i'm grateful that this preganancy is going well, Insyallah.... but I'm also sad because I'm really gonna miss being pregnant.

I told Hubby that most likely we'll stop at 2 kids given the financial & support limitations we have in the UK. So, it will be sad when the time will come for me to pack-up all my maternity stuff. I did regret not taking more pictures this time around though.

Project Bathroom Update

2011-03-01T22:55:00.007Z

My bathroom suite from Bathstore has arrived (hoorrraaayyyyy!!! clap! clap! clap!). Kesian gak lah the delivery men had to go up 2 flight of stairs to carry everything up to Mama's room. The shower screen itself was 60kg hokkayy... Hubby and I checked the orders and all complete! Well done, Bathstore - we were very happy with the service overall :)
The same week, Steve, our electrician came over to wire the new supply for the electric shower. We then found out that our house's wiring was a mess and posed a fire hazard waiting to happen. So, we ended up re-wiring the whole house! Anyways, it's all sorted now and I'm happy - at least i know the house is now safe.

On 21st Feb 2011, Natig officially started our bathroom construction work. After 1 week, this has been the progress so far:

Before:

Wall tiles removed:

Bath-tub & sink removed and piping work started:

Cabling and water supply for electric shower fitted:

Wall re-plastered & base for shower tray fitted:

WC removed, shower tray fitted and tiling work has started:

Progress is so far so good. We're half way there :)

Happy Birthday Vasantha

2011-02-26T13:13:00.000Z

A very special Happy Birthday shout-out to the best-est friend any girl could ever wished for.

Vas, you have been with me through thick and thin and I am so blessed to have you as my best friend. As you celebrate your 34th birthday, may your life be filled with joy, good health and good wealth. I pray that all your wishes come true and so can't wait to see you later this year.

Happy Birthday my dear. I love you so much!

My Valentine

2011-02-14T20:52:00.002Z

Last year's Valentine's Day, our much awaited new bed from Dreams arrived.

This year's Valentine's Day, our bathroom from Bathstore will arrive.... me so excited!!!

A perfect Sunday....

2011-02-13T21:12:00.003Z

... is when I wake up with a big sloppy "Good Morning Mama" kiss from Haidan.

... is when I have my favourite english breakfast with Haidan without any fuss.

... is when all Haidan wants to do is cuddle on the sofa and watch TV with me.

... is when Haidan and I play with a new jigsaw puzzle in peace.

... is when Hubby, Haidan and I went to the local cinema to watch a movie. We went to see Tangled today and Haidan can't stop laughing and talking about Maximus the funny horsey ;)

... is when we have yummy curry and Mango Lassi at Mirch Masala.

... would be more perfect if tomorrow is not a working day... sigh....

I'm dreaming of my maternity leave....

2011-01-31T16:13:00.003Z

Ya, saya sungguh tidak bersemangat untuk berkerja lagi.

Badan saya semakin berat dan belakang saya semakin sakit.

Walaupun saya banyak kerja di ofis yang memerlukan perhatian, saya sudah tidak kisah lagi. Saya sedang mengambil masa untuk menyiapkan kerja yang semakin bertimbun.

Hari ini saya duduk di rumah dengan alasan menunggu posmen, dengan harapan dapat menghabiskan kerja yang tertunggak. Namun begitu, kerja tetap tidak tersentuh dan saya menghabiskan masa menonton televisyen dan internet.

Masalahnya saya kagum, kerana biasanya saya akan panik. Tetapi kali ini, saya tidak kisah lagi.

Kerana saya tidak sabar untuk bercuti dan duduk dirumah berehat sambil menunggu ketibaan bayi saya.

Ya, saya sungguh tidak bersemangat untuk bekerja lagi.

Sekian.

Dear Papa -Day 6

2011-01-30T10:36:00.004Z

Dear Papa,

To Mama's surprise I woke up really early today on my own (at 7am!) because today is my "Thomas Show Day" - horrraaayyyyyy!!! (clap, clap clap!). I even helped Mama with breakfast, making sure I ate all my Coco Pops and mandi quickly without my blue gayung because we don't want to be late and miss the train!

I walked all the way to Sutton station singing my Thomas song with Mama. We managed to catch the 9.25am train to London Victoria in time and throughout the whole train journey I behaved really well. Here's a picture of me in the train, munching on my Gingerbread Man biscuit, being careful not to get my new Thomas & Friends t-shirt messy:

We then got a taxi to HMV Apollo theatre in Hammersmith and I was so excited to see big posters of Thomas and his friends all over!!! Uncle Marc greeted us there (not that I really noticed though coz I was more excited to get into the hall as soon as possible!).

When the show started, I was so happy and excited, especially when Thomas came out!!!

Look Papa! It's Thomas!.. and Gordon!... and Percy tooo!!!!

Wow look!!! Here comes James too!!!

I was singing and dancing and clapping my hands all the way.

Here's a short video Mama managed to take while I was watching my Thomas!!!....
(Note from Mama: "Ayang, check out the kiasu mother seating in front of us yang sengaja angkat baby dia tinggi-tinggi throughout the show. I was so crossed! For goodness sake, they are 3 seats from the stage already and her baby is too small to understand a single thing anyways!").

Overall it was a really good show and I enjoyed it very much. I told Mama that I promise to be a good boy so that I can go and watch more Thomas shows and also go to Thomas Land again!!

Later, we had yummy duck rice lunch with Uncle Marc at Bayswater and by 3pm we left for Wimbledon to catch the train home to Sutton.

I had so much fun today and was all excited to tell you all bout it... but I suddenly realised again that you were not home and started to get sad..... especially tonight during bed time. I kept telling Mama I was sad and I missed you very much.... and I missed your cuddles before bed time and how you like to 'eat' my ear.

Papa, please come home soon OK. I love you.

Dear Papa -Day 5

2011-01-29T21:21:00.000Z

Dear Papa,

Yeayyyy!!! It's Saturday! That means it's gonna be a busy day. This morning, Mama made me my favourite breakfast - beans, toast and turkey, yummy!

I then had my shower and we were off to my tennis class. I insisted that I want to carry my tennis racket on my own down the stairs.

At tennis, I had a little accident where I ran straight into the net and hurt my upper lip. It's a bit sore and slightly swollen, but Mama kissed it better now...

We then went to Sutton because Mama had to collect her shopping from Mothercare. Mama said because I was a good boy, she bought me a brand new Thomas & Friends t-shirt which I chose myself to wear for the Thomas show tomorrow- hoorrraayyyy!!! I also saw some really nice Thomas underpants and a big Thomas potty that looks like a chair. I tried to convince Mama that the Thomas potty is a good buy but but she wasn't convinced... she said I was err... what's that word.. oh yes.. 'poyo'.. ??? (whatever that means!)....

After that Mama also let me play at my favourite toystore in Sutton. I made sure I shared the train and toys there with the other kids in the store. Soon it was time to leave for my swimming lesson.

At swimming class, Mama was being naughty - she made me wear my rubber cap but she put it on too tightly on my forehead and managed to pull some of my hair out! OUCHHHH!!! (I think I lost some of my eyebrows too!). Anyways, swimming was OK - I was a bit tired to be honest and this week there were no jumping in (which was quite disappointing because I was looking forward to it!).

When we got home, Mama was really excited because her shopping parcels arrived..... (hmmm, since you were gone Mama has been doing quite a lot of shopping lately, so you might wanna check your credit card balance, just in case ok). One of the goodies that caught my eye was my new Trunki booster pack:

It's convenient enough to carry around like a back-pack:

It converts into a portable car seat, as well as a booster seat for my future cinema and theatre trips!:

And there's a zip here...I show you arrriiittteeee....:

Which opens up with lots of space for my Thomas and Friends trains when we are out and about!!!! I love it!

Dear Papa - Day 4

2011-01-28T21:06:00.000Z

Dear Papa,

Mama was craving some beef and cheese fajitas so we made some - she didn't take any pictures because I was busy irritating her in the kitchen. I kinda gave her a hard time today because I made a mess in nenek's room and I had quite a lot of accidents at the nursery for Mama to sort out the laundry. She broke down and cry because she was too tired and I felt really guilty.... so I went straight to bed when Mama told me so.

I'm starting to miss you now, especially during bed time. I missed your wrestling cuddles and your irritating ear nibbles. I also miss staying up late watching Thomas on the con-tem-puter with you. Since you were gone, the study room seemed to be too quiet, dark and cold.

Dear Papa - Day 3

2011-01-27T17:03:00.000Z

Dear Papa,

Today was an exciting day because we hosted Aunty Carolina's and Aunty Maria's birthday party at our home. All my favourite Aunties from Mama's workplace came and I was especially excited because Diya and Santi came too! We had yummy pizzas and we played Thomas tracks, blocks and watched Wiggles together.

Although Mama was tired, I can see she was really happy that her friends were there to cheer us up while you were away. We also had chocolate and carrot cake and I helped blow the candles!

Dear Papa - Day 2

2011-01-26T16:55:00.000Z

Dear Papa,

There's not much to write about today except that Mama was really late picking me up from the nursery. We then had to rush to Morrison's to get some stuff for the party we will be hosting for Mama's friends tomorrow. I'm excited coz Mama said Diya and Santi will be coming too!

When we got home, I surprised Mama by going to the potty on my own - hoorrraaaayyyyyy!!!! So, Mama gave me the thumbs up to have a colour bath. I picked GREEN just like Percy!

Dear Papa - Day 1

2011-01-25T22:46:00.004Z

Dear Papa,

It's the first day you are gone and I'm already missing you very much. I had a bad day - I didn't do too well with my potty training today and had 4 accidents, which includes soiling my suede shoes. Mama had to pick me up wearing a girl's pants I had to borrow from the nursery and my welly boots.

When we reached home, I had tummy ache but as soon as Mama put me on the potty, I don't feel like going. So Mama decided to leave me on my own to give me some peace and privacy. Five minutes later, Mama caught me squeezing out all my lotion into my potty and Mama punished me with the dreadful rotan!!!

So I had to go to bed early - no colour bath (just a quick shower) and no TV for the night :(

Dear Papa - Day 0

2011-01-24T22:46:00.000Z

Dear Papa,

To support Mama's attempt to keep this blog alive and active, we have decided to make a diary of all the things you missed while you are away in Dubai.

Last night after you left, Mama made me chips for dinner and let me watched Thomas with my new Gordon because I was a really good boy - I used my potty for my first ever 'real' wee - hoorrraaaayyyy!!!

Then Mama disappeared in the kitchen. Apparently she was indulging on the de-frosted durian we bought and I could hear (and smell!) her busy away making pengat durian in the kitchen.

By 8.30pm, Mama told me to go to sleep (she seemed very nice and contented after her pengat durian for some reason....). Anyways, here's some pictures we took before you left. We miss you very much Papa!

My big boy.... (and big bump!)

2011-01-22T07:22:00.003Z

Last Wednesday, Haidan survived his first day with no nappies at the nursery and did very well. Colin (his carer) said that he went to the toilet himself twice and no accidents! Well done Haidan!!!.... (though macam sabor je lah kannn coz kat rumah meraung tak nak use the potty and accident memanjang!).

That evening Haidan also had his first independent swimming lesson without Hubby/me in the pool. Yes, he was the youngest and we could see he was very nervous at first... but he soon warmed up and did not cry at all throughout the lesson.

The fact that Haidan's now in underpants and us observing at the sidelines while he swims, hit us that my son is a big boy now..... he's no longer the little baby who I cuddled constantly in my arms while humming 'Negara ku' to sleep..... It feels just like yesterday we went home from the hospital with baby Haidan for the first time and admiring how amazing he was.

Speaking of hospitals, I have been recording this series on tv - One Born Every Minute. It's a documentary of the daily 'adventures' of a labour ward in Southampton. It's good coz it will help me with the expectation of giving birth to my second baby now that I am better prepared mentally this time around.

And speaking of baby, my bump is growing (s)well! Although I feel heavier, but I noticed the bump is growing at a better rate than I was carrying Haidan. Maybe because I did not indulge in food as much this time around. I remembered at 30 weeks with Haidan, I had loads of stretch marks already (my bump macam kena cakar harimau!). But this time, no stretch marks at all (well, yet!).... although I have to admit, badan dah ter-stretch (gemuk!) dah pun, so tak ada apa nak stretch sangat dah lah.... sigh...

Anyways, here's our latest pic, taken on my 30th week of pregnancy:

Haidan excited mode with me & bump:

Haidan jiwang mode with me & bump:

It's gonna be a busy day today - Haidan's tennis class, followed by swimming, and then grocery stock-ups and later to Amy's for dinner. Tomorrow hopefully we'll be at home coz I really need to catch up with the laundry and spend time with Hubby, as he's leaving for Dubai for 2 weeks on Monday (which I so NOT look forward to!)... sigh...

Project Bathroom Update

2011-01-15T16:24:00.021Z

Me so excited!

We have decided to renovate the guest bathroom coz it's in a really bad shape. This gave me the opportunity to design a new layout and give the bathroom a new facelift! I have made sketches for my design, ensuring all measurements are correct and did some research on where to get most of our shopping done. In the end, we went to Bathstore for all our bathroom needs... it is slightly more expensive than other DIY stores or websites, but the quality is better and I knew the customer support is above par.

So here's the plan:

1) Both the old sink and WC really needs to go.

Firstly the sink is so damn irritating coz I hate 2 separate taps! It's just so leceh to wash your hands or face trying to balance the extremes of scorching hot with freezing cold water! So, I'm replacing the sink with a desktop basin, which I had long fancied having if I had my own home :)

The old WC's flush dah longgar giler and when I asked Natig (my builder) to fix it, he can't coz they don't make my flush fixing type anymore (that's how nazak this bathroom is hokkayyyyy...). The wooden toilet seat pun dah nak hampir patah and kalau silap duduk, bon-bon can tersepit! So, it's not only uzur but hazardous too! For the new WC, I chose nothing special - just a standard white modern look WC.

2) From bath tub to walk-in shower
Yes, the old bath tub is made of plastic and sempit and the panel height is quite high. So it is a struggle to 'climb in' the bath especially for my mom and my inlaws who are using this bathroom the most. Plus, we already have a nice bath tub in our ensuite bathroom, so we don't really need this.
So we decided to put in a new walk-in shower instead, big enough to fit 2 people so senang nak mandikan si Haidan kemetot! I've also designed it to have the new shower to be placed in the opposite wall so there's plenty of ceiling space for the new shower head.

3) Goodbye sprinkles, hello waterfall!
Have you ever experience having a bad hair day and when you step in a shower and turn the tap on, the water keluar se-ciput jer or the water pressure is so lame that rasa macam tak puas sangat mandi?? Well, this is exactly what my old shower head can offer. Because it was originally built as a bath, the pipes runnning to the bath taps are installed low, hence no complain on water pressure if nak takung air in a bath.... but when the previous owner added a shower head to the tap system, the water pressure was not enough to give a satisfying shower output!
Hence, introducing our most anticipated newbie in the bathroom of all - our new Mira Divisa electrical shower system. Unlike the conventional electric shower, this 10kW machine has a wide rain drop overhead shower and a separate handheld shower. More importantly, it's got a built-in pump to ensure the pressure is always perfect..... bliss!

4) Heating with style
I cannot complain much about the existing bathroom heater at the moment.... although it does look bulky and old-fashioned, it works perfectly fine and it's actually heaven-sent if I need to dry something fast! But, because we needed the extra space for the walk-in shower, we terpaksa relocate the old heater. And relocating an old heater (along with the running pipes etc) seems more expensive than just installing a new electric heater, which looks more chic and modern.
5) Colour theme
Choosing the theme was the most difficult task for my project bathroom - coz the tile and flooring selection can make a difference: an expensive bathroom looking cheap or a cheap bathroom looking expensive. Obviously my objective is the latter. I have always preferred a modern look than a traditional country feel... so I was more inclined to choose a white/dark grey/silver theme than the existing theme, which was more neutral (beige with brown). It was a toss between a 'cool and crisp' or a 'warm and cosy' look.

In the end, I have decided to go for a 'modern but classy'- combining white and dark brown large tiles with marble & glass mosaic border/ feature wall as below.... I'm so loving it!!!

My next task now is to choose the matching flooring- either wooden or tile floor laminate. From the reviews, the tile flooring is the way to go... but I can't decide on the colour theme. Should I have a dark floor to match the mosaics or a white slate look to give a better contrast between the walls and floor???

Hmmmm.... I kinda narrowed down the following flooring choices already... but which one yek goes best with the above tile scheme???

My Boboy is 10 years old today

2011-01-12T17:42:00.007Z

Happy Birthday my darling Boboy.

I can still remember 10 years ago, on the night of 12 Jan, Mate came down to Kg Baru and brought you in a little red basket. As soon as you set foot in our house, you settled straight in, as if you knew that it was meant to be called home. The first time I saw your big eyes and pink nose, I knew you were the one - my Boboy si ngong-ngong.

So here's to you Boboy to celebrate the smiles you bring and the love you share. I miss you so much and can't wait to see you soon with lots and lots of kisses and cuddles.

I love you!

Project 2011

2011-01-03T05:47:00.006Z

Ushering in the New Year will not be complete without listing down my New year's resolution. Yes, it might just be a list of 'talk-cocks' or 'poyo-ness' but at least "niat" tu ada... ehehhe. So here is my 2011 wishes and goals, which I hope to keep me busy for the year.

1) Project UK Residency
This is my main to-do-list as my work permit visa expires this year. I have to sort out the necessary application papers and find out about the residency test and procedures. I bet there will be changes (as usual!) come April, so need to be aware and be prepared.

2) Project Bathroom
Following the huge success of my Project Dapur in 2009 (albeit being over-budget, ehehe!), I have now self appoint myself again as the official Project Manager to refurbish our guest bathroom. Based on his excellent experience and exceptional good looks, I have also self declared Mr Hubby as the official finance minister and fund manager to ensure the project runs smoothly this time. I am hoping the guest bathroom will be fully completed by end February 2011.... in time before Papa & Mummy arrives.

3) Project Potty
The most challenging project of 2011. After numerous failed attempts in 2010, I am hoping to get Haidan fully potty trained this year. To be honest, it's not just Haidan that needs to be brainwashed out of his nappies, but both Hubby and I have to accept the fact that we need to let go of the convenience of nappies (that we so take for granted!) and move on to the challenging demands of Haidan needing to go at the most inconvenient time and location, underpants and bed-wetting..... sigh.

4) Project Yummy Mummy
I am compiling all my notes from my last pregnancy and have decided that this time around I will try to do my best to breastfeed exclusively till baby is 6 months, hoping to hire a hospital grade breast pump this time. I also will try to stick to a better pantang routine (my MIL will be with me this time around, so I doubt she's gonna let me off easily!). I decided to not go for the traditional Melayu jamu/ pilis/ barut etc, but resort to my trusted Chinese red dates and hopefully engage the help of a professional urut lady to sort my self out. I will try to lose all the weight and get back to my cikgu-aerobics days (warning: talk-cock mode) by taking up gym classes, wearing my PB corset and sticking to my Herbalife diet vigorously.

5) Projek Celik IT
Finally, this is my most poyo project ever - a mission that I have been putting off a lot and have yet to materialise. Since I anticipate that this year I will be spending more time at home than at the office due to my maternity leave, I will vow to learn how to finally use iPhoto, iTunes, iMovie and iWeb properly and hopefully re-organise all my photo albums, movies and calendars. And when it's all perfect I will then create a website where I can update my blogs and photos directly from either my future iPhone or trusted old Macbook.... ala-ala IT Queen lah konon....Muahahahahahahhaa!!!! (notice the evil poyo laugh.... sabor je la kannn, nak update blog ni pun setahun sekali!).

So, that's it - I'm hoping these 5 projects will keep me on my toes for 2011, in addition to the excitement of organising our trip home to Malaysia in July. It is definitely not the best year career wise, but hopefully the year I can focus on my family, which I think I have taken for granted a bit for the past year.

Wish me luck!!!!

Bye 2010, Hello 2011

2011-01-01T16:50:00.010Z

Alhamdulillah, the year 2010 has been a very memorable one for me.

Call it Feng-shui or coincidence, but my lucky number has always been the number 3, so ala-ala 2+0+1+0 = 3 and in 2010, I celebrated my 33rd birthday and Haidan turned 3.

I also visited 3 countries in 2010: Helsinki to meet Kak Zihan (and my handbag, heheh), Zurich to stay with my Auntie Kodel and Mumbai to visit my best friend Vasantha.

But I guess the highlight of it all is that I achieved 3 great achievements in my life in 2010:
1) I passed my UK driving test first time and got a UK driving licence (special thanks go out to Alan for his time and patience!)
2) Alhamdulillah, I have achieved my engineering chartership from IET and am now an official Chartered Engineer. It has always been my dream to get my Chartership for as long as I can remember and Alhamdulillah, syukur my dream has come true!!!
3) I found out I am pregnant with my second baby and am now about 28 weeks.

I count my blessings every day because 2010 I have been really blessed. I had the best time with family and friends, especially those who came a long way whom I have missed dearly -Elina and Vasantha came to visit as well as visits from Uncle Nasir, Uncle Yusuff and Zoran my brother. Papa & Mummy came early February and Mama was in the UK with no hassles on her visa this time.

It has also been a year that I learnt a lot about friendship. I learnt that there is always 2 sides of a story and that I have to be fair.... and sometimes being fair and standing up for what I think is right may prove unpopular. Miscommunications happen and burning a bridge unnecessarily is something that I cannot do or commit- I'm sorry. I always believe that good friends do not hurt each other intentionally and it is all right to agree to disagree. Yes, it hurts (especially if sometimes I think some public comments are made to attack me), but I'll just take it with a pinch of salt that maybe it is their nature to be that way when they are angry. I'm not the first and definitely won't be the last... and I have accepted that it is who they are and being themselves is what made them special.

2010 has also been a year of challenges - I have been mostly on my own this year as Hubby is travelling more to Dubai for work, sometimes gone as long as 2 weeks at a time. It is also the year when Haidan had his pneumonia- it was the worst week of 2010 for me! But looking back, i am grateful because these challenges have made me stronger and more patient as a person and it made me appreciate those who are dear to me.

I don't know what 2011 will bring but I'll embrace it with what I have learnt from 2010. I hope 2011 will be a year of good health (hopefully stop smoking for good) and get back in shape... I also hope Insyaallah with the arrival of my baby in March, 2011 will bring me much closer to my family - to learn to not take them for granted and try to be the best mom and wife as I can be and not stress myself out to be perfect!

In 2010, my best friend taught me that true friends will tell me when there's shit on my face, instead of smearing it behind my back.... (thank you Vas for being there for me and telling me off when I needed it!)... and that's the best advice ever, which I will carry through 2011. I know I cannot please everyone but I will try my best to be there for my friends and family when they need me, as I have appreciated how much they had been there for me too.

So Happy New Year everyone and may 2011 brings joy, happiness and prosperity to you and family. May all your wishes for 2011 come true :)

Cough, cough, snort, croak

2010-12-24T05:42:00.008Z

Yes.

This is exactly how I sound right now.

Been down with the winter bug since Tuesday and have been awful- my nose is completely blocked, I croak when I talk and when I cough I sound like a mining site (kong, kong, kong)... just awful!

One more day to go and I'm officially on holiday for Xmas and the New Year.

The weather has been crap as it has been snowing and everything in UK just halts when it snows.... (except work deadlines funnily enough!).

I have loads to do at work, loads to do at home and I haven't packed for our annual shopping getaway this Saturday.

Sigh.....

The green one....

2010-10-18T21:19:00.003+01:00

We were driving home from Westfields in Central London when suddenly:

Haidan (all excited): Mama! Mama! Look! That's you Mama!

Me: Huh?? Where?

Haidan: Over there! Look..... The green one

Haidan (beaming with pride): That's you Mama!

Me: Errr... ok then.... thank you, Haidan.

Haidan (smiling): Your welcome.

Sigh.....sabor je lah!

Home Alone

2010-10-04T09:40:00.002+01:00

Six months have passed (time flies!) and it was time for Mama to leave us again. This year's departure was particularly sad because Haidan is a little bit bigger, hence he can interact with his Nenek. In fact they have formed such a close bond, Haidan was always excited to go home from nursery to tell Nenek what he had been up to. They spent so much time together - Mama being the one yang layan whatever Haidan wants to play. They cooked, they did gardening, getting wet washing the balcony and even mandikan Haidan's toys! Things that I rarely have time to layan Haidan with, to be honest.

I could see Mama left with a heavy heart at the airport, as soon as it was time to go. I'm sure she will miss him very much - she didn't want to talk about it when I asked her... that's Mama. She won't show emotions.

Hubby has been gone travelling for work (yet again) since last week. So, after Haidan and I sent Mama to the airport - it was just the 2 of us left. I wasn't worried being on my own to take care of Haidan - I was far more concerned on how Haidan was feeling when suddenly Papa & Nenek are no longer around.

But Alhamdulillah, he was OK. Yes he did ask about Nenek and Papa now and then but he didn't dwell too much on it. The best part was last night:

Haidan: Mama, where's Papa?
Me: Papa gone to work.
Haidan: Oooh.... Mama, where's Nenek?
Me: Nenek gone home.
Haidan: Oooh... everybody's gone now. Mama, dont be sad okkaaayyy. Haidan's not gone....

And he gave me a big hug.

Err... hello?

2010-08-27T07:04:00.005+01:00

Errr... yes. This blog has been dead for exactly 1 year.

I blame it on the restricted access to update it - in the office blogspot is banned and at home with Haidan clinging on my leg most of the time. Oh and yes of course, it has everything to do with my ke'malas'an tahap tertinggi..... so I do apologise.

Mostly the apology is to myself (coz I don't think anyone reads my blog anyways!) - there were so many things that had happened within this one year, feel so rugi that I didn't blog about it. Ye-lah mana tahu, one day when Haidan grows up and gets married and have children and he wanted to share all the crazy things Nenek has been up to 20 years ago, he could have this blog to view......

In the meantime, I shall try my best to pick-up where I left off and try to update as much as I can.

It's Ramadhan now and Mama is here. Soon it will be Hari Raya Aidilfitri. So here's a message to everyone:

Selamat Berpuasa & Salam Aidilfitri 2010. Maaf Zahir Batin.

Hypocrisy at its best!

2009-08-28T07:22:00.000+01:00

Its everywhere in the papers here.
A girl will get caned because she was having a pint in public. But it was perfectly fine when royals were toasting their glasses of wine in the local Tatler Magazines.
The muslims will not be allowed to go to the Black Eyed Peas concert. But it was perfectly fine when Siti Nurhaliza had her sold out concert.
It makes me really sad.

Updates

2009-07-10T11:16:00.002+01:00

I haven't been blogging as much coz I was so busy at work. My boss was due for a holiday and so she needed all deliverables done and dusted before she leaves. So, it was very hectic.

Thankfully all is done! I'm also happy that my Chartered form is completed (well draft for review lah) and phew it felt good! Now waiting for my manager's review and comments and then I can get it tweaked and edited and then finally submitted!

I'm on AWW today and for the first time ever, tried the morning gym session. It was so difficult to drag my fat ass out of bed that's for sure, but once dah habis I feel so good and energetic now. Today I plan to go to town and returned some of my shopping splurges which was mostly my gatal-mengada buys! Then it's picking Haidan up from nursery and finally a well deserved facial treat for myself. Today is my official reward day!

Haidan is growing up so fast it's unbelievable. He is now talking jibberish non-stop and has a mind on his own. So, he might look like his dad but he definitely talks like his mom, eheh....

Our camera finally went kaput (after all the abuse) and we are shopping for a new one either in Dubai or KL. Hubby will be travelling for more than 2 weeks soon and I'm sure Haidan's gonna miss him loads.

Sniff, Sniff, Cough, Cough

2009-06-29T14:58:00.002+01:00

This is exactly how I sound like in the office today.

The weather has been really crazy - one minute it is so boiling hot, the next raining ice.

Plus, I haven't really had a good rest lately.

Aaahhhccchhhoooooooooooo!

GONE TOO SOON

2009-06-26T11:12:00.002+01:00

I'm devastated that MJ has passed away. We were all so excited to go and see him live this 1st Aug in London O2. But I guess, it was not meant to be. Rest in peace MJ.

Like A Comet
Blazing 'Cross The Evening Sky
Gone Too Soon

Like A Rainbow
Fading In The Twinkling Of An Eye
Gone Too Soon

Shiny And Sparkly
And Splendidly Bright
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like The Loss Of Sunlight
On A Cloudy Afternoon
Gone Too Soon

Like A Castle
Built Upon A Sandy Beach
Gone Too Soon

Like A Perfect Flower
That Is Just Beyond Your Reach
Gone Too Soon

Born To Amuse, To Inspire, To Delight
Here One Day
Gone One Night

Like A Sunset
Dying With The Rising Of The Moon
Gone Too Soon

You'll never walk alone....

2009-06-21T18:55:00.005+01:00

Walk on through the wind

Walk on through the rain

Tho' your dreams be tossed and blown

Walk on, walk on

With hope in your heart

And you'll never walk alone

You'll never walk alone

(if you think the above is so poyo, wait till you see the picture below)...

Mmmuauhahahahahaaa.....
I guess if Hubby & Haidan can withstand my SpiceGirls obsession, I think it's fair I'll tolerate theirs. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em!

Our Hamley's Trip

2009-06-21T18:17:00.004+01:00

Yes, as promised we brought Haidan to the oldest toy store in London - Hamley's.

Hamley's was organised - each floor serves its own function. There was gadgets and computer stuff (LG), teddy bears and cuddly toys (GF), games & puzzles (1F), babies & toddlers (2F), all-about-girls (3F) and all-about-boys(4F). So, it was easy for us to navigate through.

Haidan was a bit scared on the GF coz there were so many teddies and animal cuddlies. He was not fond of the big tigers and lions (which Mama was all crazy about!). But he loved the deco - he can't stop pointing out the colourful stars on the floor and the scattered demo toys around.

His favourite area was obviously where all the In The Night Garden toys were. He spent the majority of his time looking at the In The Night Garden books.

It was not overly crowded as expected, though we did go quite late and there wasn't any sales or anything. I must admit I was a teeny bit disappointed probably because I was expecting it to be so huge and full of toys and live characters and music and... (yes, I imagined it to be like Disneyworld!). But that aside, Hamley's was what it is, a toy store which the kids would love to go. Although it is not as big as ToysRUs, but there's something about the atmosphere in Hamley's that makes you wanna be a kid again.

A wonderful weekend

2009-06-15T12:42:00.003+01:00

I have vowed to lock myself up last weekend in order to get my Chartered form over and done with. However, I have failed miserably because the weather was so nice and we did not want to miss a good opportunity for Haidan to get some well-deserved fresh air in the park. We went to Hyde Park in London and Haidan had a blast with his Ummi running around chasing the pigeons, admiring the trees and flowers and telling the dogs off at the park.

Although I don't have any regrets as we had so much fun as a family last weekend, I can't help feeling so anxious the moment I woke up this morning - knowing that my CEng form has yet to be completed. I have so little left to do but my procrastinating is taking over me. I promised my boss and manager that I'll get it submitted in Mid June. Today marks the middle of June and I'm still struggling...

Oh God please give me the strength and focus for me to complete this as soon as possible. To tell you the truth, I'm getting so fed-up with it already! The sooner I get this out of the way, the sooner I can enjoy being free to go anywhere and do anything without feeling guilty.

TGIF

2009-06-12T09:23:00.002+01:00

7 hours to go....

Tick tock tick tock....

Yes, I'm bored and can't wait to go home. Sure, there's still loads more work to do in the office but suddenly I just miss being home, with my Haidan kemetot.

Am counting the hours till I catch the train back to Sutton and pick him up from the nursery. Aside from the long tiring walk and horrible weather ahead, I'm so looking forward to Haidan's cheeky smile, serabut hair and twinkling eyes.... ahhhh.. priceless!

Haidan's Kidney Scan Drama

2009-06-01T18:12:00.005+01:00

We woke up really early as the appointment at St Helier is at 8am. When we got there, we had to wait an extra hour coz the nurse told us the doctor's on leave so they are trying to find an available doctor. Hmmmm..... sabor je lah.

The procedure was to stick a tube on Haidan's veins and then inject a radioactive liquid into him. 3 hours later, he has to return and will then have to be sedated and put through an X-ray machine to check his kidneys.

So, while waiting for the doctors, the nurse put a numbing cold cream on the top of his hands and also in the crease of his elbows. She said he will have to wait for 30mins before they can cucuk a tube on the numb areas. While she was preparing the cream and tape on his arms, Haidan behaved really well. While waiting he played in the play room, waving hellos to the other girls in the ward and was walking all along the hospital corridors macam pak jaga doing his rounds, hehehe. All the nurses made way and gave him a bow as he passed them by! hehehe.. quite over lah jugak kannn...

45 minutes later, the doctor arrived and he was taken into another room. Haidan was OK when suddenly the doctor decided to cucuk him on his wrists instead! He said he could not see a proper vein line where the numb cream was and so dengan tanpa segan silu Haidan obviously brought the whole ward down by screeching his head off!!! Can you imagine how painful it must have been! My poor darling was crying and screaming in pain. They placed the tube in and gave time for Haidan to settle. Not long after that, Haidan was whisked away to the radioactive unit for the injection. I was not allowed in the room but I (and the whole hospital, I think) could hear Haidan crying. Siap makcik tua waiting with me outside for her turn, macam dah takut dah!

After that ordeal, we had to wait for 2 hours. The nurse told us NOT to let him sleep coz he needs to take his sedatation medicine before the x-ray. My poor baby dah letih giler and Hubby and I had to dance, sing and prance silly to keep him stay awake... he wasn't amused at all though....

3 hours past and the nurse came with a syringe full of purple liquid which she claimed to be very drowsy and that Haidan might get a "little tipsy" before he will doze off. Unfortunately, Haidan was on a real high!!! He was swinging and turning like a drunken master all over the ward and could not stop talking ala-ala bahasa Mandarin "ooohhh... cheih...ahhhh..chieeee... pu cer tauuuu... cher tauuuu....". Drama gak lah. 5 mins later terus terbongkang berdengkur OK! Power gila the ubat!

They then whisked him off to the radioactive unit again and strapped little Haidan in those MRI-look-alike machine. It was like a scene from Superman when they had to put baby Superman in a space ship with a rotating circular entrance! Me and hubby seperti biasa macam jakun were busy snapping photos lah kannn!

Half an hour later, the much sedated Haidan was brought back to his ward. The nurse told us to try to wake him up so that they could check he's eating and drinking OK before letting us go. Hmmmm... after all the trauma he had to go through plus the potent liquid in his body, obviously it took him 2 hours before he actually wakes up mamai-mamai. Hubby and I sampai dah tertidur kat kerusi waiting for him to wake up. When he finally woke up, he was treated with yummy toffee apple muffin and milk and we were allowed to go home.

Phew! What an adventure! Mama and Papa are so sorry that you had to go through all these today, sayang. But because you were such a brave boy, Papa promised that he will treat you to Hamley's OK. You were a super trooper and we're very proud of you. We hope the results of the kidney scan will be OK, Insyaallah...

DIVERSITY wins!!!!

2009-05-31T10:03:00.004+01:00

Diversity won Britain's Got Talent 2009, beating the nation's favourite, Susan Boyle!!!!!

OMG!!! I'm so happy!!!!! They were brilliant. I was screaming my head-off, with my tears flowing non-stop (yes.... I get very emo with this type of shows.. eheh...) and even little Haidan was stomping his feet! Congrats, Diversity :)

HHHooorrraaayyyyyyy!!!!!

OK, next!

2009-05-24T12:02:00.003+01:00

Life goes on.. yes, American Idol is way past behind me. Now I'm into me new obsession - Britain's Got Talent!!!!

Yup, that's it- the coming weeks we're going to make every single effort to balik awal to catch the live semi-finals. We'll definitely be glued to the TV!

My favourites? Aidan and Diversity! I love these 2 acts! Though I feel Diversity might have a tough competition with Susan Boyle up with them tonight.

On another note, the weather has been brilliant this weekend! Looking forward for the good long weekend rest :)

I'm so sad...

2009-05-22T23:17:00.002+01:00

... that Adam didn't win American Idol.

When the results were announced, I was dumbstruck speechless.

"Nnnooooooooooo!!!!!!!!" was my response 15s later.

Maybe because I'm tired, or my period's due, but definitely I'm gonna be so emo tonight.

Mr Incredible Part 2

2009-05-16T00:36:00.000+01:00

Hmmm... everytime Haidan wears his Mr Incredible pyjamas, he'll be a bit hyper....

Haidan's Drama Minggu Ini

2009-05-12T22:26:00.006+01:00

It was a normal boring day at the headquarters. I was getting fed-up of the video games and nothing good was on TV.

When suddenly, the phone rang. "Hello? Yes!... A damsel in distress??? Oh no! OK, I'll get help!"

"Oh no! The girl is in trouble! Someone needs to rescue her. Someone whose brave, someone whose strong....

Someone whose.. Taaarrraaaaaaaa!

Mr Incredible!!!!!!

Day 26 - Progress

2009-05-12T20:18:00.003+01:00

Got on the weighing scale and I am now 58.9kg, I lost 3.2kg already since I started. Horrayyyyy! (clap, clap, clap!).

Measurements wise, I lost 9cm this week. So total cm lost so far = 26cm! (waaaah, tu dah besar pinggang posh spice tuh!)... Hoorrayyy! (clap, clap, clap!)

According to Angela, I've done quite well, losing the weight steadily as planned. So, I'm very happy it's working!

Day 24 - Update

2009-05-10T09:46:00.003+01:00

I have been very bad at updating my blog! But I have kept my food diary in check though. I am now on Day 24.

The past 2 weeks was an up & down roller-coaster ride for me. Last weekend was my birthday and I had great fun with friends and family. Diet wise, I kinda blew it that long weekend (Day 16-18) - skipping my shakes for yummy nasi minyak and lamb chops! Though Hubby re-assured me that I needed the treat coz birthdays come once a year and i should celebrate. Problem was I kinda over-indulge myself and by Tuesday (Day 19), I felt so guilty I got depressed. Angela called me up and advised that it was alright to indulge as long as I am aware and have the determination to get up and go on. So I did.

The following days (Days 20 till now) I got myself in the routine again - shakes for breakfast, yummy lunch, shakes for dinner and 8 glasses of water with my exercise twice a week. Next week I will go to the gym 3x a week pulak and try that out.

Yesterday I met up with my girlfriends for a yummy lunch at Vinneapolis - it was lovely! The food was extra yummy and the company was great as usual. Though I'm quite sad I couldn't join them for their slumber party. I'm sure they had a blast. I just had to say no coz I have my report to finish.

Yes... my overdue report. I have now managed to finish the overall draft and now it's all typing and 'cosmetically improve' it to make it sound good! It's a challenge coz the sun is shining ever so nicely and my birthday gift cards are like calling my name to bring them to the shops and spend.... sigh.... But I realised that if I don't finish this bloody report soon, I will always carry this guilt in me and I can never enjoy my weekends as much as I want to. I have come to a point where I'm just sick and tired of it not being finished!

OK, enough whining. Got to get back to work!

Day 9 - Result and Reward

2009-04-26T12:04:00.002+01:00

This morning, I nervously stepped on the scale. After 1 week of following the diet (with a bit of oopsy here and there) I have lost 2 kilos!!! Yes, My weight dropped from 62.1kg to 60kg!!!! Hooorrrraaayyyyy!!! (Clap, Clap,Clap!) I also took my body measurements and lost a total of 13cm!!! Double Hoorrraaayyyy!!! (Clap, Clap, Clap!)

So, I decided to reward myself and dragged Hubby to drive to London and I splurged to stock up on my facial stuff!!!! Hooorrrayyyy!!!.. Aish, ni baru seminggu dah over gak lah... but tak kisah mmmuuahahahahaa... (err though when the credit card bill arrives, I'll have the last laugh lah kannnn... eheh..).

We also met the Atanmayas for a lovely Sausage&Mash dinner at Portobello. We missed them dearly so it was a really good night out!

Day 6, 7 & 8 - Settling in

2009-04-26T11:42:00.002+01:00

These 3 days I have noticed an improvement. I am not as hungry as the first few days. In fact I don't feel the urge to snack anymore. I guess my body is settling into the diet routine. I realised I'm more comfortable of having the shake in the morning, then a good normal meal for lunch and have the shake for dinner instead. This works better for me because the normal meal at lunch keeps my hunger at bay till dinner and I have more energy at work. Also, a shake for dinner works well as I don't do much at home anyways and Haidan keeps me occupied to not think about the lovely dinner Mama cooks. Since I don't want to miss out on Mama's cooking, I'll pack dinner for next day's lunch! Thus, I still have Mama's lovely cooking and save lunch money as well :)

Exercise wise, I have made the commitment to walk from my office to Leatherhead station instead of taking the coach - well it was easier this week coz the weather was lovely! Went to the gym on Friday (Day 8) and noticed I had more energy, compared to the first few times last week - I could barely survive 3 squats and was huffing & puffing when doing the bicep curls!!!

On my charteredship progress, Hubby was very kind to help type out my draft notes... (thank you sayang!!), since I type very slowly - I'm still those people who just can't hafal the keyboard and pauses every 3 seconds to check the screen for every word I type hehe...

Day 4 & 5

2009-04-21T23:46:00.005+01:00

Day 4 - tried breakfast and lunch with shakes and a good meal (salad with chicken kiev) for dinner. Was struggling during the day sebab lapar giler!! Tu-lah dia kannn, dah biasa makan banyak for lunch and munching bebagai! Anyways, went to gym so felt quite good :)

Day 5 - Effects of the gym has kicked in :( Feet were numb and my tummy felt sore.... Had shakes for breakfast in train, then decided to have lunch instead in the office. Semangat berkobar to replace my dinner with a shake was greatly dampened when Mama surprised me with her Nasi Ayam + Sago Gula Melaka dish on the dinner table. The hearty meal is to celebrate my inlaws last night here in the UK before they leave for KL tomorrow. So, errr.. so decided to skip shake and had a small portion of Mama's yummy nasi ayam with a teeny spoonful of sago. Aiiisshshhhh... camner nie????

Anyways, Hubby uploaded the pictures taken from the past couple of weeks while inlaws are around. Here's some of Haidan's best moments:

"Can someone please move this thing out of my way??? Taaa...."

"Jalan-jalan cari makan...."

"Step by step...- me doing a Joey NKOTB impression with Nenek Yah as my errr...background prop"

"My cheeky chicken poxy facey"

Day 3 - Lazy Sunday

2009-04-19T17:15:00.004+01:00

I decided to stay home today coz dah menggelabah lah kann report tak siap lagi!

Morning I had my shake while everyone else had toast for breakfast. Haidan was so sweet- he noticed I wasn't eating like everyone else, and so he kept on offering me some of his peanut butter toast! Thank you sayang!... I did nip a bit sebab nak jaga hati dia kannn... don't want to expose him to rejection at this tender young age you see... eheh..

Lunch I was a bit stronger to resist the temptation of a whole bowl of mee bandung my family was having. I did have 3 spoonfuls just to taste from Hubby's portion and carried on sipping my shake. I didn't feel guilty because I think it's quite important that I don't be too strict on myself, but at the same time not to overindulge and break the diet. I think change should be done slowly and steadily... at the end of the day I am looking for a long-term result.

All I want to do is to be able to fit in my old clothes again. Technically, this means that my goal is to achieve my ideal weight of 50kg (I'm now 62kg) by 30 Sept 2009. So I have 5 months to lose 12kg, hoping to never gain it back!

Career wise, my aim is to get my Charteredship submitted by end of June. Don't want to delay this further... OK, guess I have to go and start work again. I still have a report to finish and submit tomorrow!

Day 2 - Portabello Market

2009-04-18T22:41:00.001+01:00

My Day 2 was an ad-hoc chaotic disaster!

I have to say that the Tea Mix really kept me awake- I slept quite late last night and ended up waking late this morning! So, had my first shake at 11am and rasa tak puas sangat sebab lapar lagi! So I had a few cucur udang for brunch as well! Hmmm... not a good start lah kannnn...

Then, Hubby announced that he wants to go to Portabello Market. Since I have not been to it before I decided to tag along too. Portabello was lovely - its just their version of our pasar malam. Though they have more antiques and we have more food je lah! Managed to tempis godaan Hummingbird and crepes dengan sukses! Hey, it was not easy OK munching on tasteless protein bars while Hubby, my inlaws and Haidan gobbled on Paela, chips, pastries etc in front of my face! Everytime Hubby lovingly goes "Mmmm Yummmmy" on his next bite of food he bought, I gave him my ultraman pose and reached my handbag for my bottle of water - hoping that every tasteless gulp will protect me from his devilish attack!

After 3.5 hours of walking down Portabello road (yup, it took that long coz I had to stop to wee-wee every 3 minutes.. eheh), we then went to Pottersfield to enjoy the fantastic view of Tower Bridge amidst the wonderful weather. Haidan was enjoying himself walking through the water fountains and playing peek-a-boo with the art-statues around. Dinner was at Malaysia Hall and we left home & caught up with Britain's Got talent :)

My progress:
* Charteredship - errr.. none!
* Diet:
Mid-morning: Formula 1 shake & Formula 2 with cucur udang at 11am
Day: Protein Bar at 1pm & 3pm. Formula 1 shake & Formula 2 at 5pm
Evening: Yummy Yong Tau Foo at 9pm.
Water: Lost count, so say approximately 3x750ml lah. (Though the amount of times I went to the toilet seems like I drank the whole of river Thames!)

Day 1 - Sutton Library

2009-04-17T22:15:00.002+01:00

I woke up early this morning dengan penuh semangat, had my first Herbalife shake (Strawberry with Soya Milk) and my usual Berrocca and vitamins. Packed all my stuff and got Haidan ready for the day. I left home around 11am and went straight to the library.

This was my first ever visit to Sutton Library - wow! I didn't expect it was quite good. The library had the normal books and all but also a media centre with loads of cds, audio books and the latest dvds as well. The best part of the library was the children's section - it was a secluded area with loads of books and play centre - I was already imagining bringing Haidan there once in 2 weekends! The only setback was that there were loads of college kids around coz I think exam period is coming. So, it was quite difficult to find a kiasu spot for me to do my work. I ended up sharing a long table with some college kids. I settled in quickly and kept telling myself "Stop procrastinating, stop procrastinating...". I could sense the minah college beside me was rather uneasy at times.. hehehe.

Progress wise for my IET report was not excellent, but good enough. I managed to finally sit through all my past PPA forms from PETRONAS and highlighted the projects I want to include. I also finished writing the draft Gap Report for Kate to proceed to sign me off on some tasks that I've done in PETRONAS so that I won't be expecting to do in KBR for my Chartered application process.

Before this I get so overwhelmed by the amount of work that needs to be done, that I kept procrastinating on finding the perfect day/ time/ mood to finish ALL at once. So far, that brought me a step back instead of a step forward. So I am going to divide and conquer and achieve small tasks one by one to make it easier for me. Here's my plan:
* By this weekend 19/4/09 - complete Gap Report and fill in IET form with PETRONAS experience list and competencies. Submit to Kate on Monday 20/4.
* By next weekend 26/4/09 - complete Jan-March quarterly report and go through KBR list of work. Submit to Kate on Monday 27/4.
* By 3/5/09 - complete IET form with KBR experience list and competencies. Submit to Kate on Tuesday 5/5/09.
* By end of May - Finalise draft for IET submission.

Diet wise, here's my progress:
Morning: Formula 1 shake & Formula 2 at 8.30am, Protein Bar at 10.30am (lapar dah!)
Day: Formula 1 shake & Formula 2 at 1.30pm, Protein Bar at 4.30pm
Evening: Chicken kiev, loads of salad and 1/2 cup nasi goreng at 7.30pm.
Water: I managed to gulp the 3x750ml water bottle (tea mix & plain)! Hooorrraaayyyy (Clap, clap, clap)

My verdict: I found I wasn't tired at all (which was really good), I had so much energy throughout the day... akan tetapi I noticed I get hungry by 10am and 4pm. By dinner tu perut dah berbunyi siap!

Family Support

2009-04-16T22:29:00.008+01:00

I got my Herbalife products today!!! Hoorrraaaayyyy!!!! (Clap, clap, clap)

Angela briefed me on which is which, what I need to do and what I have to avoid. She passed me a 30-day diary for me to track in my progress. She promised she'll call often to check on me as well.

So this is it.... I am going on a diet journey. Today is officially Day Zero.

In a bid to show her supportive spirit, Mama has kindly volunteered to help taking my "before" measurements. As she was struggling to pull the measurement tape across my tummy, I told her that I was quite worried to start this, you know.. whether I was ready to let go 2 hearty meals a day for a glass of milkshake instead... she bluntly replied, "Oh my God with this measurements- you are so damn ready!!!". Apparently, she insisted that by giving a reverse psycho support, I will be all fired up and geared to go.... (errr... thanks Ma...).

Hubby on the other hand decided to celebrate by surprising me with a gift. I was quite shocked coz he usually sucks at surprises, I didn't see this one coming at all (Ni mesti case lega lepas ni dah tak yah nak layan my crazy-last-minute-lunch-cravings). Nope, it wasn't a weighing machine nor an exercise DVD but the heavenly 1gazillion-caloried-Red-Velvet-Cupcake!!!... Apparently, he insisted that it is the ultimate Day Zero treat to show his support....(errr.. thanks Ayang..).

And Haidan?? Oh not wanting to miss his part, Haidan surprised us all the most by deciding to crawl to me and for the first time ever - stood up all on his own and gave me a big round of applause!! Hooorrrayyyyy!!!!

So, as I munch my last Red Velvet cupcake with Haidan still clapping in the background, I hereby declare that "This Is It- Bring it Onnnn!!!!"

The first steps...

2009-04-15T10:22:00.002+01:00

... is definitely the hardest, or should I say the most expensive!

To report my progress on my Chartered application, yesterday I officially submitted for 1 day leave this Friday. I plan to go to the library in Sutton, sit down and start completing my IET reports. So if I don't do it, I have wasted one good day- which could be spent with Haidan or at work compiling overtime hours!

To report my progress on my weight loss programme, Angela from Herbalife called me last night and introduced herself and the products. She seems like a really nice lady. She's been with the product for 5 years now and have done personal diet coaching ever since. I chose Herbalife because I'm counting on Angela to give me the support I need. I think I work better with a mentor guiding me because I am the Queen of Procrastination (and obviously Hubby's my King). So, yesterday I dashed out £1** for the whole starter set and she's coming in this evening to brief and get my measurements. Plus I have paid my gym fees to start on my personal training 3-4x a week at TWIST. So kalau tak kurus jugak, can someone please TWIST my ear and bite me!

Cucur Udang...

2009-04-13T18:05:00.002+01:00

... Tak sampai 2 minit I talked myself to start on a diet, Mama presented me with a plate of freshly fried Cucur Udang with Lingham chilli sauce and Kopi-O on the table.

She said it's her Thank You treat for me helping to colour her hair this afternoon.

So in view that I don't want to offend my mom for not accepting her gesture of appreciation, I shall devour the Cucur Udang out of respect and start my diet tomorrow.

Wake Up Call

2009-04-13T17:27:00.002+01:00

I haven't been blogging because I was lazy.... tho to defend myself, I have been busy too, both at work and at home. Unlike Hubby who has access to the net 24hrs on his fingertips, I can only browse the net when I'm at home. Which is highly unlikely since Haidan is growing up too fast that I'm on my toes most of the time till he's in bed. And highly likely that I will terbabas with him in bed till morning.

Mama has arrived safely in the UK since last month. So, she has been a great help at home. I am so happy and thankful she's here! At least kurang lah sikit beban nak masak and do the laundry kat umah.

Anyways, the reason I made an entry today is that the last couple of days have been an eye-opening experience for me, which I think deserves a post so that I am constantly reminded to wake up and stop procrastinating.

You see, I have always procrastinated that I will complete my Charteredship. My boss have been patiently reminding me that I need to get it done as soon as possible. Most of the time I will nod in approval and 10 minutes later I am back being lazy. So last Thursday on the way home from work, I bumped into Carolina - a colleague of mine. She is a year younger and attained her Charteredship late last year. I asked her how she's doing since I have not met her for quite some time. Well, turned out she is now a Senior Engineer in a project I so wanted to be in... but didn't qualify because the minimum requirement is to have a CEng. It then dawned on me that if Carolina (with 1 year less experience) can do it, why can't I?? - Wake Up Adita!

Also, since I gave birth to Haidan I have not been exercising nor watching my diet. I remembered the last time I went home to KL with Haidan (at 3 months) in tow, and my aunties can't stop commenting on how much weight I have gained. I didn't care at that time coz I know that I will strive to lose the weight anyways once Haidan's a year old. Now, he's nearly 2 and I still wear 2 dress sizes larger than I used to. Yesterday evening while munching a bag of biskut bantal followed closely by a bag of Hershey chocs, I suddenly feel so heavy and dizzy. The wake up call came when Hubby was downloading the pictures we took into the laptop when I just saw myself! I looked so big! I have been eating more than normal the past few weeks and I realised I don't have the energy and dread waking up in the morning coz I feel so heavy. So, this overweight business needs to stop coz now it's effecting my health dah - Wake Up Adita!

So, from now on I will try to update myself with my progress. So here goes:
What have I done today for my Charteredship progress?
1) Found my Petronas PPR folder containing all my previous experience list
2) Downloaded the IET form on my laptop

What have I done today for my 'get back in shape' progress?
1) Made an appointment tomorrow to sign up at TWIST gym
2) Made a query for someone from Herbalife to contact me

I know the above does not make a difference but at least I'm moving an inch, rather than procrastinating and not moving at all.

Haidan's Handphone

2009-03-21T08:36:00.000Z

Haidan's Breakfast

2009-03-21T08:34:00.001Z

I'm waiting...

2008-12-15T22:34:00.002Z

for Mummy Vas and Mummy Mate to arrive...

Oh, please let the days go quick... I so can't wait!

Ooops I did it again!

2008-12-11T15:27:00.002Z

Britney, here I come!!!

After NKOTB in January, I'll be off to Britney's concert pulak. Hoorrraaayyyyy!!! Marisa & I managed to get really good seats.

I love Britney, despite what she went through. For her to come back after all that is something I tabik boing-boing.

I so cant wait!!!!

Happy Birthday Haidan!

2008-11-21T23:54:00.002Z

Look who turns 1 today!!!

Me!!!

In the morning, Mama & Papa took me to the nursery to celebrate my birthday with my friends. They prepared a small cake for me with a big no '1' candle, and sang Happy Birthday.

Unfortunately I wasn't too well the night before. I had tummy ache and a temperature, so I couldn't stay long at the nursery with my friends. Mama & Papa had to bring me home. Since it's my birthday, Mama & Papa let me play whatever I want and I am allowed to watch as much tv too... Hoorrraaayyyy!!!

In the evening, we headed off to Kakak Azmarea's house. On the way, we were supposed to pick up my birthday cake, but as usual, Papa got lost. We were stuck in traffic and the shop was closing soon! Thank God, Uncle Alan was nearby and he managed to pick up the cake for us on time! Hoorrayyy for Uncle Alan who saved the day!

When we got there, we were so happy to see all the food and decorations ready for my party, all thanks to Aunty Marisa!! Everything was red and everyone was in red too! The food was yummy. We had potato&minced pie with chicken nuggets. The adults had nasi with ayam masak lemak, beefballs, sweet sour fish, fruit salad and cheesecake. Well done Aunty Marisa, thank you!!!

The best part of the day was when they surprised me with my birthday cake. It was lovely! A big chocolate number '1' with red deco and a teddy bear. It was really yummy too! I loved it!

Next, Mama helped me open my birthday presents. Kakak Azmarea and Brother Yusuff helped me out too. I love the presents and can't wait to play with them. Thank you everyone!!!

Wow, birthdays are so much fun!!! I can't wait for my next one!

A year ago today...

2008-11-14T13:19:00.002Z

I was in a happy mood celebrating my last day of work before I leave for my maternity leave. Then, Haidan was due to arrive on the 1st Dec- so I had plenty of time to go shop for baby stuff (yup, we weren't ready at all then). I remembered bringing big tupperwares of nasi goreng to jamu my colleagues who planned a lunch party for me. We didn't do much work that day coz everyone was in a relaxing mood since it was a Friday and they all couldn't wait for the weekend.

This year is so different. Well, obviously I'm no more pregnant (tho I still do look like it! Darn... too much Mochachino lah nie!). And work has been piling up for us this past few months- so colleagues were not as jolly as they were last year. Weather has been horrible too- raining and cold. I rarely get time off at home as well with Haidan now crawling and cruising. He's definitely into the "Now you see him, now you don't!" stage. Plus, with the winter and all, he gets sleepy earlier nowadays, so whatever free time I have are all spent with my (not-so) little baby. Therefore, my favourite pastimes of blog-hopping and facebooking have to be put on hold.

I'm also so excited and can't wait till we move into our new home. I wanted to post the pictures up but Hubby won't let me coz he knows I'll be too excited and get myself too into it, so if anything happens nanti- I will be depressed and disappointed. So, until all the paperwork is confirmed and done, I shall not jinx it (yet!). Tho, I really can't help myself looking at furniture and kitchen appliances dah... suddenly Mama's Home&Garden magazine seems to be more appealing than my usual doses of celeb chronicles.

Oh, how time passes by so fast. Haidan's going to be 1 next week already! He's no more a baby :( So much has changed and my best friends have moved on too - Mate's so happy working in Amsterdam with Michal and they'll will be moving to their new home soon, Vas will be a tai-tai and are moving to Mumbai, Devina's in a plane somewhere around the world, Nina is expecting her 2nd baby... thank you God for blessing us all this past year.

Giggly blonde??

2008-11-08T08:22:00.005Z

I had my performance appraisal yesterday. Due to some changes in the office, I was assessed by my mentor and lead instead of my manager. I knew it was going to be a bit uncomfortable because we were quite close.

As soon as we entered the room, I had to explain all my current year objectives and justify myself how I have achieved the expectations given to me. Compared to the previous year, this year was very challenging as I have been given the responsibility to do power system studies - a task usually done with people having more than 20 years experience. Therefore, I had to work extra hard this year meeting the requirements set in the office, with becoming a new mom and trying to learn the system as much as I can with the little time I have. Although I was happy that my mentor acknowledged that I performed well in my task, I was taken a back that she mentioned that the only thing that bothers her is that I portray a "giggly blonde" personality - which, by the first impression people may not take me seriously, and doubts my leadership skills. I might not have the confidence to give out presentations and might find it difficult should I be sent out to site on my own.

Hmmm.... me "giggly blonde"??? Can't talk in front of people?? Can't survive independence at site??? At first I was quite surprised because when I was back in Malaysia, my previous feedbacks have always highlighted that I am confident when it comes to work, and never timid. I have spoken and giving presentations numerous times - at work, being an emcee and giving career talks - heck, I conducted my own aerobics class 3x a week! I love going to site and get all excited (most of the time I didn't want to come home) because I knew I learnt a whole lot more at site than being in the office! Thus, I was quite unhappy on the way back home last night, thinking that I do not deserve such comments- I was on defensive mode. I was angry and frustrated.

However as I slept through it, I woke up this morning suddenly thinking that my Mentor might just be right. I realised I wasn't as proactive as when I was in Malaysia. I realised that I do feel intimidated sometimes with my western colleagues, especially knowing that you're not native. There were times when I rather be quiet than voicing out, too worried if I might just ask a stupid question. There were times when I still have the mentality that "I am new here - don't wanna show off too much", (which is definitely a safe net if you're in Malaysia). There were times when I rather be comfortable as a follower than a leader because I don't want people to talk behind my back. So maybe she's right after all? Maybe I have turned myself into a "giggly blonde" who lacks confidence and independence??!!!

After all that thinking (with numerous sticks of M7Lites later!), I have now decided that I shall take it all in my stride and instead of wasting time being angry (the traditional Melayu defensive route), I shall improve myself and show my Mentor (and everyone else!) that I am NOT a giggly blonde anymore. I am so fired up and I will complete my Chartered application and prove that I am a competent, assertive, proactive and qualified Engineer!

So, first things first... I have to go colour my hair - it shall be back to black now!

Moving Mama

2008-10-22T17:41:00.003+01:00

We have to move out from our current flat. Our landlord wants the house back due to unforeseen circumstances. Hubby and I have been busy since the last month trying to find for a suitable place to live in by December 6th. That means when Vas comes to visit, she'll be busy babysitting Haidan while we pack and move.

On the other hand, we got news yesterday that Mama cannot come to the UK this December as planned. Apparently, they've changed the visa rules (again!) and she cannot apply for a 6 months visa in the same calendar year. Thus, Mama's visit must be postponed to January next year instead. Poor Mama, she was really looking forward to celebrating Haidan's 1st birthday and hanging out with Vas & Mate for Xmas. But she said, if it meant waiting for another month to spend more time with her family, then it's for the better.

I'm off work today and staying at home because Haidan is not feeling too well. He's been coughing the whole night last night and this morning he's got a temperature. Went to the GP, and she said Haidan caught the common winter flu and prescribed antibiotics. Phew, thank God it's the flu coz we were hoping that it wasn't his UTI! He's recovering well with the medicine and constant hugs and kisses now...

My emo moment

2008-10-16T22:37:00.004+01:00

I haven't been blogging for quite a while. That's because a lot of things (both good and bad) has happened since my last post.

Since my last post, I was bogged down by work. I now have to leave very early in the morning to make sure I finish as much as I can before 5pm. Our report is due next week and I have to give a presentation to the client the following week.. eeeek! And of course, me having the best of luck- masa nak rush to print an urgent document tu lah printer paper jam lah, fire alarm bunyi lah, kopi tumpah lah... (sigh!)

Since my last post, Mate was here!!! We went for a short tour around London and then to the zoo and then jalan-jalan cari makan (note to self: must songlap pictures from her blog. Michal is so adorable...(you're so lucky Mate!)... though I think he might be scared of me now, knowing how garang I am with Hasli & Haidan.. eheh.... Though it's a short visit, I'm already missing her dearly... so can't wait for Xmas when she comes to visit again!

Since my last post, I realise how lucky I am to have good friends who are there to have a good laugh with and who are there to support when things go wrong. To my best friends Vas, Mate & Nina- thank you for your long distance calls. To my sisters Marisa, Mimi, Fay & Amy- thank you for putting a smile back to my face. I love you all so much!

Since my last post, Haidan has grown far too fast. He can now stand and cruise a bit, roll over (finally!) and shuffles. He mimics my laugh and loves to grab my hair for a kiss. He's beginning to be clingy as well, getting all emo when I leave the room. I will try and post his latest pictures once we.... errr... hmmm... find the camera.... (hmmm... ya lah, where's our camera ah??...)

Since my last post, an unexpected left me so stressed and insecure. What can you do when you really want something so bad, when that something is so perfect, it ticks all the boxes but it is not within your reach? Money you can always find.. but the perfect home is not easy to come by.... It brought tears to my eyes everytime I think of it, how beautiful it is and how close we were to achieving it. But alas, it's not me who makes the final decision...

Sigh.....

SELAMAT HARI RAYA!!!

2008-09-29T20:43:00.002+01:00

Yeaayyyyy!!! Besok raya :)

Though, I'll be working and it's just a normal day at work. Hubby is blasting the radio with raya songs at the moment and suddenly I miss being home with Mama and Boboy in Kg Baru. By this time, Mama would be in panic mode trying to finish cooking the rendang and kuah kacang for tomorrow and Boboy would be hidden somewhere under the cupboard because takut bunyi mercun! I would be in the room sorting out the duit raya angpows.

Well, at least we will try to celebrate as much as we can this coming weekend- it will be Haidan's first ever Raya. I'm sure he'll be excited to see his Ummi Zihan on Saturday and then meeting his favourite aunties again at Marisa's later.

Oh, oh... Also, Mate will be coming from Amsterdam in 2 days- hooorrraayyyy!! I so miss her and am looking forward to spend raya with her and meet Michal.

So, Salam Aidilfitri to all my family and friends. Maaf Zahir Batin!

"Step by step...

2008-09-17T23:15:00.005+01:00

..gonna get to you girl"

Yes my darlings, I hear you...

soon OK, very soon..... ;)

Happy 4 years Anniversary

2008-09-11T13:00:00.004+01:00

"When the stormy past is put behind us,
The sunny future will shine brightly before us"

Dear Hubby,

This year is a special year as we celebrate our first anniversary as parents. Haidan's arrival in our life completes us as a family and it's the best thing that has ever happened to me. Thank you for your love, support and understanding and I promise I will try to be a better wife and mother. Let's give Haidan the best that he deserves.

Love always,
Wifey

The dream home

2008-09-05T00:08:00.013+01:00

We went out for dinner in town and while walking back to the car, we passed by a real estate agent office. And there it was... like a shining light, an advert for a 3 bed townhouse on sale. It's situated at the most sought after area of my borough, with the easiest access to town and bus & rail stations, but still amidst the beautiful greenery and calmness surrounding I so desire.

Then, suddenly I imagined myself and Haidan arrived at our "home". Our little rose bush along the private driveway welcomed us. As soon as I opened the door, Hubby arrives home from work.

While Hubby parked the car in our private garage (just next to the entrance door), Haidan and I went straight to our favourite part of our home - the kitchen.

While I boil the kettle, I went through our lovely organised kitchen cabinets for some HaroonAli teabags and biscuits for tea. By this time Haidan was already running to open our garden door to cari Boboy the cat, whose enjoying the early evening breeze in our mini garden.

While I serve tea at our garden patio, Hubby went straight up to the 1st floor to his small office- his retreat, his private little library. As usual, he'll check his letters and bills, made a few notes and then head to the living room. He opened the door of our private Julliette balcony to let some fresh air in. He settled in his comfy couch and turned on the TV.

About half an hour later, Haidan ran up the stairs to the living room to join his daddy while I started the bath running in our big family bathroom on the 1st floor.

A good bath, dinner and some DVD movie watching together- it was time to go to bed, and up we go on the 2nd floor. While I washed my face in our ensuite shower room, Hubby tucked Haidan to bed with a storybook in Haidan's room. Soon after, we all retired for the night, all happy happy and looking forward for the next day again.....

..... (sigh)

... what a good dream, Adita.... dream on....

Salam Ramadhan :)

2008-09-01T04:55:00.003+01:00

I am so sorry that I have abandoned my blog. I have no one to blame except myself. It has been a whirlwind roller coaster ride since I last wrote, with the inlaws' visit to crazy workload to our short city breaks and to the lovely time-outs with my girlfriends.

Tup, tup dah September! Haidan is already 9months old and can stand up on his own while holding on to everything and everyone! He still have to take his antibiotics every night and go for follow up checks and treatments in St Heliers, but other than that he's totally fine and lepaks.

Puasa time in September is a tiny bit longer than in KL. Tak lama lagi nak raya, then not long after Mama & Vas arrives. I so can't wait!!!!

Anyways, to all my friends, hope all is well. Salam Ramadhan and selamat berpuasa!

Kitchen Tag!

2008-07-25T10:00:00.000+01:00

Tagged by Marisa:

Five things I want in my kitchen:

Mama - we missed her cooking so much :(
A new light bulb for the cooker hood- kept forgetting to get one!
Proper teh tarik tapis/ sieve
More space! (well, actually more time lah, coz if we spend time to organise the crap in our kitchen, there should be abundant space available)
Errr... Nintendo Wiii... can ah???

Five things I plan on cooking pretty soon:

Nasi
Tandoori chicken wings (guna perencah jer.. and then grill in the oven)
Vegetable curry
Haidan's chicken pasta
Haidan's cinnamon apple / sweet potato dessert puree

Five things I have to get from the grocery store / supermarket:

A new light bulb for the cooker hood
Chicken
Ginger
Kailan
Fish fillet for Haidan

And since this is a tag of five... I'm tagging:
Izreen, Faiez (Mate), Dian, Ezah (Ibdil), Zura (Chikong)

Busy bee no more....

2008-07-21T23:07:00.000+01:00

... well until next week at least!

I was super busy at work, trying to meet the project deadline for a report. With Haidan not well (tummy upset due to Hubby accidentally giving an overdose of antibiotics), I had to take days off at home while finishing work till early hours in the morning. Didn't have much sleep either. Anyways, I managed to submit the report last Friday and successfully celebrated it with a big bash last Saturday. We had a small party for Hubby and had a great time with our friends till 5am! Pictures coming up (note to self: must beg from Marisa soon..).

Anyways, must respond to Mimi now coz I got tagged!

Tagged!

1. When you buy a greetings card, are the words or the picture more important to you?
:: Words definitely- I get all jiwang with it.

2. What's your favorite kind of cake?
:: I miss Secret Recipe's chocolate banana cake back home. But I can't refuse any warm and moist chocolate sponge cake with its dark chocolate oozing out... mmmmm, bliss!

3. Do you ever make gifts for people, if so what, or do you buy them?
:: I used to prefer making gifts- from cards, cross-stitch to CDs. But now, due to time constraints, I try to personalise gifts I bought as much as possible.

4. What's your favorite holiday?
:: Oh no, I can't decide! - There's the one in Penang with me & Vas lost as tourists, our all-over-USA stint back in 2000 with my uni mates and the time when I swam with dolphins in Gold Coast in 2004.

5.Are you going on holiday this year? If so, where?
:: I so want to go to Zurich during the Christmas holidays, hopefully with Mama and Vasantha joining us.

6. What was the best party you've ever been to?
:: UniS foam parties during my zaman-zaman kegemilangan... (sigh). But this year, I'd say it would be Azmarea's 3rd birthday party- not only it was Haidan's first party, but it is from there that I met all the good friends that I can always party with... anytime, anyday! :)

7. If you are married, describe your wedding. If not, what would your ideal wedding be like?
:: We had a 'Puteri Gunung Ledang' themed wedding. It was more like a concert with dancers, hulubalangs and performances (silat, montage, singers and nasyid by the Ilham boys). We basically wore costumes from the PGL movie- from the baju to the gold earpiece (ala-ala macam Tiara) and my bridesmaids (dayang-dayang) wearing batik jawa. We didn't do the traditional kompang entrance- we entered to the song "Asmaradana" instead, being carried to the stage on a pedestal. Yes, it's a bit drama... but it was my dream wedding came true....

8. What's the most romantic thing that's ever happened to you?
:: With Hubby? None - he's a hopeless non romantic and I got used to learning to live without it. (With my past relationships? Got-lah, but we shall not go there shall we...)

9. What's your favorite girl's name?
:: Arieana

10. What's your favorite boy's name?
:: Hayden... but we melayu-nised it to Haidan instead ;)

11. Which celebrity would you like a dream date with?
:: David & Victoria Beckham. But if I'm still single, then just David will do.

12. Which female celebrity do you find beautiful?
:: Ashwarya Rai (correct spelling ah??)

13. Which male celebrity do you think is attractive?
:: David Beckham. Full stop.

14. What is your best character trait?
:: Patient and loyal

15. What is your worst habit?
:: Mild Seven Lights

Tagging time. I would like to TAG (5 people):
Mate (Faeiz), Fabmama (Loly), Izreen, Dian, Ghaz.