Dadha Speaks...

Flowers

2012-02-12T03:44:00.001+08:00

Wow. After 8 years of marriage, these 3-roses are my FIRST from him. I have thanked the husband. I shall treasure it because the chances of getting them again are odds. Hah.

Women. Im one of them. Hah.

-BlogPress-

Whoa!

2012-02-10T17:18:00.001+08:00

That is an expression in response to whatever that has happened lately. Its like "whoosh... whoosh... KapoW..." I really wanna know if "proper breathing techniques" really work. -BlogPress-

Marriage Package

2011-12-07T07:06:00.001+08:00

You marry a man, you marry the whole family. Good thing he has nice family. Think of him as a WHOLE family. Alhamdulillah, Allah gave me his family as a remedy. -BlogPress-

Backing off... from attacking

2011-12-01T14:28:00.000+08:00

It is not too serious to warrant a separation. I reminded myself today, is a brand new day. My plan today, to put into consistent actions what he accused me of not. Whatever that means. Quite reluctant but winners do not quit, right? -BlogPress-

Vicious Argument via SMS

2011-12-01T03:48:00.000+08:00

Had an ugly ugly quarrel via SMS. He will talk via Sms. Had we do this face to face, I cannot imagine. Im seeking help. Im open-minded. This is the right thing to do. Either some helpline or emotional counselling at IMH. Meanwhile, at 3:52am, i saw this in FB.

How apt. -BlogPress-

Its a brand new day...

2011-11-29T08:20:00.001+08:00

Was tuning in to IKIM FM. A great tazkirah on Maal Hijrah. "New year, new resolution". Another reason to eliminate the spouse grouse?? Perhaps. Why not? . Yet again. Today I left home very early to send #3. VERY early just so that I dont have to see his face. Thats how bad it has gotten. For now. Baiklah ustaz IKIM, saya cuba memperbaiki keadaan. Bismillahirrahmaanirrahim.

Breakfast in the car. -BlogPress-

You got me begging you for Mercy. Why wont u release me...

2011-11-27T22:59:00.001+08:00

I know. Its wrong. It is never a right thing to tell others about your marriage. We were told. The right thing is to have faith in God that everything will be alright. Well, patience has its limit. ........ ..... .... .. I feel like im done with this man. Im hanging on. For the sake of our children and parents. -BlogPress-

Meet Marieah, our No.3.

2010-12-07T00:12:00.001+08:00

More updates when I am "less confined". Right now, its adapting mode.

Mummy passed away peacefully, Oct 30, 2010

2010-11-20T13:54:00.001+08:00

In the name of Allah. Most Gracious Most Merciful

On Saturday, at around 10.40pm; 30th October 2010, Mummy, Hjh Salbiyah Binte Hj Abdul Hamid, has moved on. She passed away, and deeply I hope; peacefully.

No doubt it was a matter of time, but Mum parished earlier than expected.

It was her 20th day in High Dependency Ward 57. As her oncologist and counsellors from National Cancer Centre told me that morning, she is, in all sense of word, a determined fighter. Dr John has clearly explained to me that Mum was experiencing the final stage of endometrial mastitis. How long more? I asked. He said, "TWO months and it could be longer". I was pleased to learned from Dr John that Mummy was one strong patient who listened to her doctors. She also thought highly of the healthcare workers - the nurses, who have cared for her. Mum built good rapport with them. For the 4 years she was developing symptoms (since 2006), Mum had been lucky and diligently turned to Allah and family for comfort and cure.

I guess it was time. We already knew that, yes, she was in final stage. Yes, it will be a matter of months or days. We braced ourselves for this moment, since 2006. Even before the diagnosis of cancer took place (Feb 2010). So when Mum was told she has 4 months to live (that was in April), I was confident she could beat that prediction. She did it again. Mum lived for another two good months.

I feel pain everytime I miss her. But when I think it through, I should be thankful to Him for whatever that has been decided. He is All-Knowing. Mum is relieved from all pain and sufferings in this world.

Rest in peace, my beautiful Mummy. You will always be in my prayers. I am blessed to be your one and only daughter, and I hope Allah will grant my doas for you. Insha Allah.

May we be reunited some day.

Review 2010

2010-10-05T08:28:00.005+08:00

I have been rushing like mad! My time is no longer MY time. The moment I opened my eyes in the morning, its "DO a, b, c, d...". I dedicated my time to my Creator, his creations i.e: husband, parents, children, colleagues; also work and study etc etc etc. WHY am I complaining? I just need some spinach or steroid jabs to keep me going... Astaghfirullah, forgive me, Ya Allah.

Now that I am back writing, I wish to journal back key events that has happened since January 2010.

1) I have been working in NTU since December 2009. It has been a love-HATE HATE HATE feeling for the place and its "culture". Whatever.

2) I should not complain. My superior has backed me in applying for the MCYS scholarship. I was accepted. Currently I am a scholar in Wheelock's College Bachelor of Science in ECE with focus on Literacy. Classes are conducted in "block lectures". The lecturers flew in from Boston and we will have 1-2 weeks of evening classes, 6pm - 10pm.Tiring but fulfilling.

3) Mummy has been diagnosed with final stage of cancer in April. She has asked her oncologist to tell her her chances of living. She said, "its okay. You can tell me." She deteriorated for awhile. I was devastated to see Mummy who has lived her life vibrantly, has succumbed to this deadly disease and is giving up. At one point, she refused chemotherapy. NEVERTHELESS, I am happy to report that she is doing superbly okay! Mummy and I.... we are determined feminists...(feminists -just feel like using that word, but im not sure if we are one :P) Mummy is brushing aside all these I-am-dying attitudes. Alhamdulillah, she has been positive. She is her usual self, ever-diva, ever-beautiful, ever-funny and irritating. Haha. I have made Mum promised that she will be around to welcome her upcoming 9th grandchild.

4)Our family was also hit with another test of patience and vigilance. SIL Anna was unexpectedly warded for more than a month in SGH, with most of the time in ICU. She had pneumonia due to H1N1. What looked like a harmless cough led to complications. She was in and out of critical conditions. At one point of time, we lost hope when Mummy was critical at CGH and Anna at SGH. We shuttled to both when we could. Ayah and Rizal was most affected.

5) Found me pregnant, just before the Phuket vacation. Due December 10th, 2010.

6) It has been a year. We have our own place now; our maiden investment with HDB. Our official residence isBlk 631 Senja Road. That's in Bukit Panjang. Why did we not blow our horns? Will tell you next time.

7) Dear has upgraded Mazda 2 to Mazda 3. Self-explanatory. We are EXPANDING.

Ok. 2010 reviewed.Moving on...

Blog, interrupted

2010-09-08T18:43:00.000+08:00

The last one spoke about my pregnancy. After that, there were 1001 incidents that happened to me, to beloved families and friends. Happy and sad. Sickness and health. It's time to start writing again. :) Alhamdulillah.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Third Time!

2010-05-05T18:19:00.000+08:00

Maternal instinct. I was late by 4 days. On the fourth day, I was nauseatic as I drove to work. I de-toured to a pharmacy at Lot 1, to get the damn test kit. Upon reaching work, I headed to the toilet.

My reaction?

"oh-ohhhh"

it has been a lovely journey so far. Me and the little one... Will be seeing HER in December, with Allah's Grace. I could not wait. She has to go through a lot of trying and turbulent period with me. Baby, studies shown that with a Student-Mummy like me, you might turn out to be like Maria Montessori or Lilian Katz or Vygotsky. We shall see about that.

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

"Meet me at Tan Tock Seng"

2010-02-22T12:17:00.000+08:00

Friday, 19 Feb 2010, around 4.15pm: The actual account On the abovementioned date and time, I received a call from Tamhid. He said he had hit a bike. He was injured. First thought, to rush to his side. I was doing my essay at home, after sending Mum for admission at SGH. The girls were at Haig Road. Shock. Followed by mild daze and uncertainties. We agreed to meet at Newton Flyover. Since it was almost Asar, I decided to wait. Just before leaving, my MIL asked me where was I heading to. I calmly told her I was meeting her son. In town." On the next call to Hid, he said, "can you meet me at Tan Tock Seng? The ambulance will take me there". My heart doubled in beats. Nevertheless, I made my maiden solo drive to TTSH.

Strange, how my mind auto-cruise the car to it's destination. Another part of my mind was replaying what happened on April 21st 2009.

On Saturday, we went to Traffic Police to lodge the accident report. Glad we had Ayah around. He assisted us in many ways. On Sunday, we got a call from one Dr Ong from TTSH, who spoke to Hid about the x-ray. Immediately after the call, we got ready and headed to the hospital. We met Dr Ong who showed us the X-Ray.

He said..... (there were just too many technical terms and layman terms to recall) "It could be due to an old injury", "may consider not to ride forever", "refer you to orthopedic..", "how long have you been married? You looked like NEWLY-WEDS". :) awww thanks, Dr Ong. We blushed.

Tamhid is now on the road to recovery. He needs time. I can tell that he has loads of thoughts and he needs to sort things out. His bike, his SECRET and his future. Allah's Love and Guidance are the sources I prayed for my wonderful husband. I do hope his riding friends will be around for him in time like this. Im especially thankful that he has wonderful friends like Abang Ma'il, Safari, Shah and Mus.

How to React When your Husband is Injured

2010-02-21T13:31:00.000+08:00

...in a road accident.

19 February 2010- Dear Tamhid called me to say : "Dont be shock. I just got into a road accident". I was at home completing The Essay. Then, my mind went whooosh. Next, I was in the car. After that, I was making my way to Tan Tock Seng Hos. Then, I saw him, and...... I shook and trembled silently. In the end, relieved and happy.

1. Stay calm.

2. Listen carefully to whatever information given, for example, if he will be conveyed in an ambulance, please check which hospital he is heading to I.e: TTSH, SGH or KK.

3. Don't ask silly questions like, "why are they taking you to the hospital?", "You got pulse? Heartbeat?"

4. Think carefully on who ought to be the next person you update i.e: brother, father, brother-in-law or Facebook?

5. Bring along your I.C and purse, other than your kewl phone i.e: iPhone, Omnia, Blackberry, etc.

6. Give him your love and express your care verbally and through your actions. Don't Facebook or Blog temporarily.

Posted using BlogPress from TTSH (surprise review).

Morning Pleasures

2010-02-11T09:52:00.001+08:00

I call these pleasures. Sheer and surprising ones!

He filled me up!!!! No. Dearest Tamhid filled the gas late last night so that I can drive ~~up the wall.~~ to work with ease.

Because Im gonna run with Cake tonight, I eat these. What a defeat. I know.

Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone in Mazda 2.

Play-Doh: my latest hobby

2010-02-08T13:08:00.001+08:00

I am into Play-Doh now. Rolling, pressing, pinching, kneading, cutting.... Ahhhh, fingers therapy. Naturally it has Zen me up.

Right now, I have the Barnyard BBQ and the Breakfast Set. Coming up, the pizza set and every Play-Doh must-have: the Ice-Cream Swirl Set!

Kids (and adults alike) have the tendency to mix the dough. So I told Durrah not to. She understood. But adults... Hmmm.... mixed my dough.

Abah in NUH

2010-01-27T20:10:00.001+08:00

We kept vigil and awaits for Abah's return to his bed, Bed 23 Ward 41, NUH. He just had a surgery-a minor one (I suppose) to remove a prostate growth.

Ok, he had just been wheeled in. I just performed Maghrib. Quite a sight to see. In this ward alone, I saw three men with half of their skulls gone. I wanna try and snap a pic of this man near to me. Oh gosh, I just glanced. Yearp. His skull has sunken on the right side!

I just wanna recall what Mak said when we had food at the cafeteria around 6pm today. She brought up the subject of how Abah was never accepted, or shall I rephrase it, never popular among the family due to his boldness. His stubborness.

"Abah kata ada kantung kencing, tak boleh solat. Bolehkan?!...Sebab kencing dia terkawal dalam beg".

"Lagipun darurat", I added. "Abah lagi mahir dlm ilmu fiqh. Solat dgn pergerakkan mata pun boleh". Mak then added, that people said if Orang Alim nak mati, "takes time". That the main caregiver i.e Wife, Children will be tested.

"Mak, Uncle Mansor sakit 7 hari, kemudian dia meninggal. Pada Dadha, Allahyarham pun Alim juga."

To each is his own.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

He dated me.

2010-01-08T18:56:00.001+08:00

I love this guy. Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Rushda turned 5! Party at the beach

2010-01-08T18:53:00.001+08:00

Rushda is now 5. This year we had it at Changi Beach again. Rushda, we hoped you had an unforgettable memory celebrating with your dear friends from Learning Vision @ CBP. Everything was beautiful and to me, it was perfect! More about it.... Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone @ Coffee Bean Holland Village

Gap Gals.

2009-12-03T03:00:00.001+08:00

Were in town to get some BluRay discs at Orchard Central last Saturday. As we walked our way back to Wheelock, we saw Gap. Couldn't resist.

Sunday, the gals wore them to JB.

Rushda : 4 years 10 months. Durrah: 2 years 1 month. - Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

So well-behaved

2009-11-28T21:04:00.000+08:00

@ Sony Style, Orchard Central

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

End of Service after 7 years...

2009-11-28T13:40:00.000+08:00

26 Nov 2009 I have said goodbye to LV@CBP. It was kind of a dramatic decision since early Oct. In the end, Resignation converted to Approved Transfer to LV@NTU. This life-changing experience had affirmed my trust in Allah; on how He had opened the path for me. I had a hard time letting go of my comfort zone. Told myself, "this is an act of sacrifice. Insya Allah, blessings await me". Okay lah Raudha, don't think too much. Move forward and do what I deemed Best for Tamhid, Rushda, Durrah, Mak, Abah, Mummy and Ayah.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Heavy downpour, on the same day, yesterday.

2009-11-20T07:52:00.001+08:00

The view from the Eightrium, Changi Business Park. My bet is, bring the brollies, my friends.

Somewhere from the CTE...

2009-11-18T07:42:00.001+08:00

I caught this at 7am exactly. Like cousin Ed and SIL Erni, I love the sky and what's in it. Masya- Allah.

Scrapbooking on Saturday Morning

2009-11-10T07:33:00.005+08:00

31 October 2009 @ Cards'n'Scraps Mission: To use the kit to create that lovely altered frame.

"HAPPAY!" - one word to describe how I felt being with these people.

EDLEEN - paternal cousin + the Scrapbooking Guru.

CHU - maternal aunt.

MARDHIYAH - maternal cousin.

Our end-products.

Thanks Ed! I went home happy. I want to do this again SOON.

Me iPhone

2009-11-07T07:51:00.003+08:00

Superb. Splendid. A gift from Tamhid on 16 October 2009. It does wonders, this little thing.

Its hard to believe that tech-dodo like me, is now using an iPhone 3GS. So far, so good. However, I am not too sure about how the new plan I signed up (iFlexi) with Singtel would cost me monthly. There's the usage, and the downloads I have to worry about.

I am not sure about some of the things. However, fret not, the closest iPhone niece and sister-in-law are just a mountain away. I hope Sister-in-Law Erni could show me a thing or two today.

Blog Resuscitated!

2009-11-06T09:04:00.000+08:00

"Bila nak update post?! You are still at 'One day I will die'!!" Thanks Ed, for the wake-up call. I clearly remember the reasons why I let it be. Too much concerning matters of the heart. Yeah. Anyway, welcome back Dadha Speaks.. Have a great Jumaat, everyone. I'm on my way to 'make dough and place it on the table for the family'.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

One day, I will die...

2009-07-04T16:50:00.001+08:00

"O my Lord! Thou hast indeed bestowed on me some power, and taught me something of the interpretation of dreams and events,- O Thou Creator of the heavens and the earth! Thou art my Protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Take Thou my soul (at death) as one submitting to Thy will (as a Muslim), and unite me with the righteous."

(Surah Yusuf ayat 101)

Michael Jackson... Gone too soon.

2009-06-30T22:18:00.000+08:00

He is gone. This is it.

Once again, I felt shattered. It does not matter that I dont know him personally but what he have done through his music; making an impact through millions of people who have listened and watched him.

I was only 4 when I first heard Thriller, and maybe 5 when I watched all his music videos and the unforgettable American Music Award. I discovered rhyming words from his songs.

Rumours were going around that he had embraced Islam in November 2008 - 7 months ago. Whether it is (or not), I hope he would Rest in Peace and be Rewarded. I recalled a passage from the Quran...

Lo! those who believe (in that which is revealed unto thee, Muhammad), and those who are Jews, and Christians, and Sabaeans whoever believeth in Allah and the Last Day and doeth right surely their reward is with their Lord, and there shall no fear come upon them neither shall they grieve. (Al-Baqarah - ayat 16)

For all you know, he will be Rewarded for Healing the World. InsyaAllah. Thank you, Michael Jackson.

Alfateha - Mansor Bin Ibrahim

2009-04-30T07:41:00.001+08:00

That last entree was posted at 4am.

Uncle Mansor passed away surrounded by family members who loved him very very much on the same day, at 1.46pm; Tan Tock Seng Hospital.Allah loves him more. AlFateha.

This event has reaffirmed my Iman that death happens; death in the family happens; to anyone, anytime.Could be me next, could be my children, my husband, no one knows but Him.

Seven days. That was all it took - seven days from the onset of illness.

Painful. It's really painful for us family to acknowledge the fact that this good man has left. He was like the anchor man in my family, aside from Ayah. Sharing knowledge on religion matters; current affairs, for example, if he was around now, Uncle would probably say that the H1N1 pandemic is Allah's reminder to us, His creations, that He is Almighty. And that this is a reason why we must always DOA. Uncle would remind us, "after giving your salam (after prayers), why rush to watch American Idol, news (etc. etc)? take about 1 or 2 minutes, to thank Allah. Bershukur. Ask from Allah health and protection from bala". His way of talking appeals to us youngsters. He also has a good sense of humour we all enjoy. He likes to tease Mum....... I really miss him so much.

Who is Uncle Mansor?

Born 16 July 1951. Mum's Brother-In-Law; Andak's husband. He is the eldest of five siblings; whom we are very very close to. Part of us, and we are part of them. Family friendship dated more than 35 years.

Describe Uncle Mansor...

Friendly; Approachable; Understanding; HELPFUL; dedicated to family and friends of Masjid Kassim; always seeking religious knowledge (going for classes three times a week); Generous! Yes, very generous. Dependable; a good Husband; a good Dad; a humble Comfort cabby; a humble man who likes to share stories and advices....

Uncle Mansor as part of my daily life...

Rushda's arrival in 2005 only strengthens the strong togetherness we had. When Rushda was just a few days olds, Andak and Uncle Mansor comes to Pasir Ris daily to assist me in showering her, patting her, carrying her, cook for me, etc. Rushda grew and showed a resemblance of Mardhiyah, my cousin. All the more they loved her, as back then, Mardhiyah was away studying. When I was back to work, the arrangement was, Andak & uncle comes in the morning,DAILY WEEKDAYS, pick us up, drop me at work, and bring Rushda back to Haig Road. There, she was showered with ALL the attention and love. I felt blessed. This routine repeated again when Durrah arrived and I need to work, December 2007 till Durrah was enrolled in Infant Care, earlier this year. Every single weekdays morning, we see him.

Our final events with him...

12 March 2009 - Brunch at Tekka market. He brought us there for Alaudeen's biryani.

29 March 2009 - Came over to Pasir Ris, to visit us, as Rushda and I were down with gastric flu.

6 April 2009 - The girls and I went to Haig Road, as they were missing the little ones, and they have reserved some Briyani they cooked for a wedding the day before. The way they abided to Durrah's requests, I was envious. I remembered uncle telling me which route to take to avoid the evening peak traffic. And that night, there was a huge butterfly flew in, we had fun snapping away pics.

10 April 2009 - Good Friday holiday. Mardhiyah spent the day here. In the evening, we had Andak and uncle Mansor came to surprise us with dinner! They bought Mee Upeh and nasi Ayam from Bedok Corner. That night, Tamhid noticed Uncle was breathless when they did their Maghrib together. Rushda snapped away pics, got one of Uncle, sitting and watching the news.

12 April 2009 - He was weak at home. For the first time, he missed attending majlis diba'i of his own group, Nurul Jadid. He was the founder and coordinator of the group. So when Ayah called to say that Uncle Mansor was not well, I cried. I was so worried, that I accidentally sent a text to Uncle's phone. It was meant for Tamhid. The text says: "Uncle Mansor not well. He can't breathe." Anyway, that night, we went to Haig Road. Uncle gained some energy to walk to the hall to welcome his guests - his mother and siblings.

15 April 2009 - Received call that he was taken to the hospital by ambulance. He was sent to ICU. That was the last time I saw him conscious, with a respiratory support machine, just like Mum last time. I kissed his hand, strapped with the call-button remote. He was gasping, trying to coordinate his breathing. Before I left, I told him I was going back. I recited Selawat Azamiyah, trying to tell him to do the same. He nodded. I saw Tamhid putting his hand on uncle's forehead. I couldn't let uncle see me cry, so I made a quick exit.

16 Apr to 19 Apr 2009 - We visited him at TTSH' ICU. He was sedated. Updates of his conditions fluctuated; mixed of good and not good.

20 April 2009 - I could not visit. Only for today.

21 April 2009 - Upon reaching work around 9.30am, got a call from Ayah. The doctors have called Andak and Mardhiyah to come to the hospital immediately. Uncle was not responding to the most expensive antibiotics administered. The moment of truth, doctor has informed that Uncle Mansor has weakened. To get all the family to come. I left work at 10am, clueless, aimless. Somehow, got myself to the hospital, there I saw Uncle's last moment. Then, he was gone. For REAL, he was gone.

Uncle Mansor will be remembered...

For his working charms on babies and young children; as Guru Mengaji; for his beautiful voice reciting the Quran or Qasidah; for the Biryani he cooked with Andak at weddings and events at masjid Kassim; for the month-long project he has during Ramadhan, at Masjid Kassim; as the friendly and helpful Comfort taxi driver. SHA 4323.

Ya Allah, I truly miss my uncle. He was a good man, and you are Most Knowing. Forgive his sins, and shower his space with light and beautiful things. Ya Allah, you are Most Merciful. Amin Ya Rabbal Aalamin.

Allah, please heal my uncle's pain.

2009-04-21T04:17:00.003+08:00

Allah, please take away the pain from him, but not his Life. Not yet. Give us another chance to live our lives the way we used to. We miss Uncle Mansor so much, especially Rushda and Durrah. He is their only Tok Janggot. 15.4.2009 - TTSH ICU; lung infection.

2D 1N at Cameron Highland

2009-03-12T07:52:00.006+08:00

Unexpected Access

2009-03-09T23:46:00.001+08:00

It has been awhile since I catch something good on TV, especially reality shows. But something made me sit up and paid attention lately. I just happened to tuned in to this local show on channel 5 on weekends, Unlimited Access, hosted by the pretty and intelligent Wong Li-Lin. I love her.

The on-site of first episode was at an embalming parlour. And there was a real dead body that one embalmer was embalming, and Wong was there to uncover and share with viewers and what went on behind-the-scene for the funeral planners.

The episode I watched recently was also eye-opening. Wong was on-site at KKH surgery rooms.

The camera was rolling as a team of surgeons worked on the head of a 4-mths-old baby.

Uncut. Something we rarely see from local TV.

Im looking forward to the next episode. I hope it will be something that make me squirms.

M. Nasir.... just this once.

2009-02-23T00:05:00.001+08:00

I wish to remember this. On HOW I went through the hassles to surprise dear husband to watch Konsert Alam M. Nasir in Kuala Lumpur. I thought, since he has been singing that Mentera song so frequently than ever, he should go see M. Nasir live. So I cooked up the plan of surprising him. Im not sure if he is a so-called fan, but he may appreciate the music.

Now, no one goes to a concert alone. So, got to be a pair of tickets. Now, to make him go, he must bring someone. First option was Safari, his good ol' kaki; Second was Shah, last Busa's kaki or worst case scenario, ME, his long-time ~~kaki complain~~ wife. But for now, I shall not count myself in.

After the tickets were presented, it was a question of who is going with him.

Q:You are due to go for a family holiday, so why plan this?

The facts that: 1. Its our 5th year wedding anniversary. 2. I love to surprise him. 3. Dates coincide. We are due to be in KL anyway. 4. There was Kak Erni, who were buying tics for herself, Abg Uda & Friends. If it isnt for them, I wouldnt even think about the whole thing.

Q: How did you surprise him?

It was exciting!!! I watched Kpak Bing Bing and heed Pak Lebai's tips on ways you can surprise your spouse. So...

I placed the tickets in the fridge along with the chocolate muffin. They were left there from Saturday evening TILL he discovered it the following day, afternoon.

So that made them a pair of freaking "cool" tickets.

NOW, the question is, Who's Going with Him? I don't think I can. Who would care for the children then? It will be in KL!! A little bit messy here.... And the weekend is coming.

A Reason to BLOG again

2009-01-09T23:26:00.002+08:00

Hehe hehe hehe he he sigh.......

Ah, shall not say it. Year after year, same excuses, Raudha.

December has been a very busy month for me at work. We've moved on, to a bigger, better place at The Eightrium, Changi.

Breaking-news became a daily affair in that month. There were the sad, the shocking, and happy ones nontheless. But to journal about them, would take a helluva post.

I'll save them in my 1GB brain (limited. Very limited. Especially after having kids). Perhaps, I'll just share bits as and when. Yeah, that would be good.

MOVING FORWARD....

Marriage will be our 5th year this Feb.

Rushda is now 4!

Durrah is attending Infant Care starting 15 Jan!!

Tamhid will be 36. And me, 31.

Work has been good so far. albeit the killing demands. My mother role, the usual lah. So it has been working and parenting. Socialising?!! Huh. A think of the past.

2009, looking forward to you, baybeh. Hey!! Its Daryl Hall & John Oates' Private Eyes on Class 95 now.

Your Birthday, Rushda!

2009-01-03T00:47:00.006+08:00

Getting Ready for the Cake-Cutting Ceremony.

Rushda's teacher, Miss Yani, lighting up the candles.

Cake and cupcakes made by Cik Alin.

The first to celebrate her birthday, in the new school.

"For you, Miss Siti"

A hug from Teacher Ema.

Miss Apple presented a mini bear for the birthday girl.

A gift from her teacher. So sweet of her.

From her mate, Syadeeya.

Baby, we love you. Such a big lovely girl you are. May you grow to be a good daughter, sister, grandaughter, cousin, friend to the people whose acts affect your upbringing in becoming a useful Muslimah.

Sunshine! The sun is shining bright

2008-11-07T00:32:00.002+08:00

Cant really think of a suitable title for this post other than the above.

Alhamdulillah, Mr Sun is showing up again, after the looming clouds have cleared. Blue skies ahead!

And just who-what am I referring to?

1. A change in my work environment, for the better. We are moving out soon, to a bigger and better place. Goodbye to a good 6-years at TP and my good pal, Mey. We went through it together, man. My decision is to stay on because i have confidence in LV. Tawakkal and gotta work hard to live my dream. Im looking forward to new challenges and changes ahead. Hello to CBP!

2. Barack Obama became the first black president for America! Live the dream! Nothing is impossible.I share the joys of the Americans who had been waiting for this moment. So, are we ready for a malay President or Prime Minister, Singapore?

3. Preps for Tamhid's road trip is about done. Im glad he's got most of his stuffs ready, and quite excited for this roadtrip. Not so excited by the expenses gone to improving the Busa's performance though.

When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. ~Victor Frankl

-0p

I love sunshines. Dont you?

"Looming dark clouds ahead"

2008-10-23T13:06:00.006+08:00

I saw in the papers, many times, especially of late, about "looming dark clouds ahead". Obviously, they were referring to the terrible terrible world economic recession.

I saw those clouds alright. Looooooming....

A view from where I work. I was standing at the window, hoping to snap a pic of lightning. (Too much Discovery Channel!!)

Looking at that staircase, it reminded me of a dream I had two nights ago. I was driving our Mazda 2 tailing behind another car, apparently driven by Tamhid. He was with the little ones and we were on some village roads in Malaysia. From the main road, he made a left turn into a one-lane street. I turned too, BUT he's gone. So I kept on driving and told myself, "Couldn't be. How could I lose him?" I continued driving and at the same time, looking at the scenic kampung houses, padi field, a small mosque and then suddenly I reached a dead end. Well, not really dead lah. There was a staircase, something like the one in the picture above, except that it was wider and shorter.

Here's the funny part of the dream - I got out of the car, somewhat searching for network, and called him,

Me: "Eh where are you?? I'm lost. Which way did you go?"

Tamhid: "Huh? Lost? How can you be lost, you were right behind me, what."

Me: "I kat tangga. I ask you eh, this car can go down staircase or not?"

Tamhid: MANA BOLEH?!?!?! (how can?!?!) Mana ada TANGGA?! (Where got staircase?)

Me: Hah?! Cannot eh? Then how? No gear for staircase eh? (began to panic)

I started to walk around aimlessly looking for him, and when I came back, (this was the saddest part) the car was gone. Stolen. Panic again. Gotta find the car before Tamhid finds out.

Before I found the car, I found Tamhid and the girls. They were eating in a "PWD Kallang airport canteen" together with..... Abang Ijal and family. What were they doing there?!?! Apparently they were presenting a car-plate to Tamhid with the word "OHLINS" with lots of heart shapes around it. By the way, OHLINS is a branded part/accesories for bikes, like the one on Hid's Hayabusa.

Weird. But funny.

Anyway, back to the looming dark cloud. Something happened this morning that has caused my heart to be looming too. The person who is supposed to be my role-model "played" me out. He still needs to learn to prioritize things. I wonder what he thinks of me; Super Woman? Well this Super Woman also needs time out.

The One when I Turned 30.

2008-09-22T05:34:00.000+08:00

I've turned T-H-I-R-T-Y and Alhamdulillah, it feels good. I don't feel "old" a bit. Same as I was 16, 18, 21, 25, 28..... yurp, same. Still got the Disney in me. Hehe.

But true! As you get older, it gets quieter. Perhaps, its Ramadhan. Loved ones are occupied with ibadah and chores. Once again, Mum & Ayah has forgotten. As Ayah put it: "16 or 21-years-old, itu baru birthday. After that, jangan sibuk".

Whatever Ayah. I half-agree with you. 30 IS a "Happy Birthday" birthday and I still want that present I asked for. (",)Speaking about birthday present, Tamhid got me a Sony Ericsson G900 from Starhub! Ka-ching*ching Hehehe. Which reminds me, I want to tease him and tell him that I'll take that as my pre-birthday gift.There's still post-birthday. On actual day, early morning, the gift I received was unforgettable and priceless. That physical touch I had.... Most-deserving. It will forever be edged in my memory. Thanks for the Group Hug, Loved Ones.Durrah was squashed in the middle.

What I did on September 18, 2008:

- Rushed to Pergam to get Mum's medicine prescriptions, then rushed to SGH's pharmacy to get what she needed. Mum was slurring again. Signs of Stroke. Rushed back to Pergam as one of the items was her set of jabs, ice-packed. Mummy was being stubborn, insisting that she was fine. She, assuring me, to go ahead with my plans today, as rest is all she needed. With a heavy heart, I went.

- Go Johor and explored Kampung Pandan Bazaar. Too hot and tired to enjoy, but managed to get kain samping and butang-baju-abang-mana-Pah? Couldn't find the right Orange BK for Tamhid. We headed to Tebrau City Jusco to solat and window-shop and ding-ding-ding, we saw the PERFECT Orange BK. $RM100+... cant bargain. Departmental Store oiii.

-Iftar at Black Canyon.

-Headed for Angsana to shop more. Tamhid got himself the latest capal design.(The way he shops, as if its his birthday. *eyes-rolling*)

Sweetness on my 30th Birthday:

- Zilah and Baoling got me Dunkin Donuts!! More sweetness was when, Zilah wanted to send them over even when I was at the other end of Singapore. We picked up at her place instead.

- The Amethysts & Sapphires choired a birthday song conducted by Dila, over the phone.

- The SMSes and well-wishes over at Facebook.

- The birthday cards made by sweet Rushda and cousin Nadhrah.(I want something from Edleen!! A card or her fabulous scrapbooking LO. Hmm, I hope she reads this.)

As planned, goodie bags giveaway this Raya for loved ones at work and close to heart. Looking forward to a great year ahead. Insya Allah. Amin.

My siblings and our youngest broods.

Ridzwan, Rizal and Raudha.

Siti Shafura, Elliea Fatin and Durrah.

SMS -Serious Miscommunication Seh!

2008-09-15T11:03:00.000+08:00

This happened over the weekend.

The first piece of news said: Cikgu A's second child passed away in an accident and Cikgu H's son is in ICU in SGH, not sure why.

Several SMS followed between me and F, the informer, talking about Cikgu A, and if we should go and visit. F said, "Don't. Not now. Seems like there is a miscommunication. I'll update".

Second news came soon after: Sorry. Its Cikgu A who is in ICU. Cikgu H's son passed away in an accident.

The following morning, during Sahur, another SMS came in: Alfateha. Cikgu A has passed away.

Final one from F: This is going to be a last update from me. Cikgu A has not "passed away". She is in a critical condition in ICU. Our friend, AZ, just visited her this morning."

Immediately I called F. She felt that it is not necessary of her to update anymore as informations given were confusing. I told F to keep up her good intentions.

This reminds me of P. Ramlee's movie, Do Re Mi. "Siapa yang mati dulu, saya hadiahkan satu ratus ringgit" Do and Wife who were pretending to be dead own up: "Saya mati dulu! Saya mati dulu!"

In touch with the Disney in me

2008-09-07T20:36:00.001+08:00

Consciously or unconsciously, I've been watching Disney channel shows. Believe it or not. Right now, I'm watching Camp Rock, the latest Disney original movie, after Jump In and High School Musical.I was looking forward to this premiere, just like other Disney teens!

I know who are The Jonas Brothers; who is Hannah Montana/ Miley Cyrus; who is Corbin Bleu and the real and on-screen names of almost ALL the cast of High School Musical. All thanks to Rushda; Hid's coolest bunch of nieces and nephew; and the six-going-thirteens mak neneks at work.

Aside from the movies, I do girls-bonding time with Rushda; in front of the TV set weekdays nights for Hannah Montana and The Witch from Waverly Place. Nevermind if it showed the episode we've watched before upteenth time.

The kids in school thought I'm cool. Yah really!! When I break into Best of Both Worlds, they went wide-eyed and "You watch Hannah Montana too?!?!?!" Occasionally, during transition periods, I'll use catchy lines from either one of the shows, and the kids love it.

When I was muccchhhh younger, I remembered watching Mousercise! That aerobic programme for kids. And of course, the classic Mickey Mouse and friends cartoon. My favourites? Donald Duck and Chip'n'Dale. As for Rushda, she is currently into Disney's princesses: Ariel and Cinderella. I don't buy her any dolls. Just loads of pyjamas and panties with pictures of them. :) Adding to her collectibles are storybooks of the princesses which I have read to again and again.

Hid, all of 35, will alert the girls when Yo Gabba Gabba is on (Nick Jr., 8.00am). I was surprised when he let off a, "Hold stiiiiiilllll!! Wiggly wiggly wiggly stop!" That was cute. When the girls are at home, its either Disney or Nick Jr. Once in awhile, when there's something informative and safe-to-watch programmes on Discovery Channel, Kakak will be encouraged to stay tuned and figure out whatever questions we threw to her, "Rushda. look! How did he catch the giant squid? What will they do to it?"

I'm proud to admit that there's still the Disney in me. Its good to be in touch with the child in yourself. Its okay, its safe and its good.

The Question is... Can I Do It?

2008-08-20T21:32:00.000+08:00

Our PM and gang brainstormed on ways to generate the nation. Finally, they offered us...

FOUR months maternity leave;

SIX days childcare leave for every child under-7(heard from a friend. To be confirmed);

increased baby bonus for 1st and 2nd child; up to $4K.

increased subsidy rates for childcare fees; up to $300.

they are seRIOUSly serious about us procreating.

Mr PM spoke about changing the mindsets - of father's roles and responsibilities; parenting cultures and practices; and so on...

"Mr PM, after looking at your offer to child-bearing women like me, I must say it is indeed an advantageous offer. Its getting better by the year. I see hope in the future for my own daughters when they decide to have kids. Personally, Mr PM, I want to have more babies. I do. I wished to have FOUR, just like the people around me. Yet, I have my worries, sir. I share your sentiment about changing of mindets, especially one that involves fathering role. Yes, I agree. Something should be done. If the parenting 'system' works consistently and equally between husband and wife, then it would be a successful and positive child-rearing experience. I watched the news or read somewhere that "the culture of fatherhood (in S'pore) has definitely changed many years back, however its time to look at the practices. Mr PM, I present thee my worries..."

1. Husband & Wife relationship became once-upon-a-time (personal level of emotional needs varies as new member joins in).

2. Lack of time: to relax; quality time with spouse; with own parents; with own hobbies.

3. Managing priorities: I love my family AND my career. I am "growing" along with my career. So many things to explore, yet my young children are slowing my opportunities. On the other hand, I love my family. I want to give the best for them, but with the cost of living very high, I must work, to earn money for basic basic use; which means sacrificing time to be with them.

4. Family Finance (which is a minor setback. Least worried.) Baby Bonus and subsidies make a LOT of difference. Thank you for that initiative. It is what it is - a bonus. With that, I am able to place my child in a preferred school with a good programme. I want quality, so I pay more.

5. Workplace mindset. You give us more days off. We welcome that, but do you think the workforce think likewise?? No. The last time I utilised the 3rd-mth maternity perk, I was arranged to take leave as and when it was deemed "non-peak". At the discretion of my supervisor. It was totally the opposite of the whole main purpose.

"Suggestions, Mr PM? I suppose! Give me months to think about it"

Rewarded

2008-08-18T02:21:00.004+08:00

Rewards bring positive effects on you. Like what I have just recently experienced. And for that, I am Thankful to Him for the blessings bestowed upon me.

1. The company I've been working for rewarded me by acknowledging my loyalty and contributions for the past 5 years. I am one of the few recipients of Long Service Appreciation award on Friday. I was awarded with a Swatch watch. Coincidentally, I have a collection, that brings to a total of 20. Am I happy? Happpppy.

2. Being Nisfu Syaaban on Saturday (where Maghrib is the beginning of the day); I was rewarded with the opportunity to sit jemaah with hubby and parents to recite surah Yaasin, 3 times. Usually we are ALWAYS occupied Saturdays, but not last Saturday. Following that reward, I prayed that my dua granted, and ibadah on that day accepted.

3. I had the niat to Puasa sunat Nisfu Syaaban; but considering it was on a Sunday, I was eerrrr...contemplating. I woke up for Subuh and reached for the Amalan Seharian book, and I turned to this page, where it mentioned about the Rewards promised by Allah for those who observes fasting. I made my niat and Alhamdulillah, continued my fast. I was excited by the Rewards. Like I've said, may Allah reward my ibadah.

4. Rewarded with Hor Fun for iftar; peace and tranquility the whole day, yes! despite having Rushda and Durrah around.

5. Team Singapore's table-tennis duo won themselves Silver at the Olympics. That's their reward for all their perserverence and hard works. Li Jiawei (despite being a China-born) has been wanting to do this for Singapore. We must be happy for her.

My opinion about their winning? Fabulous. Its the fighting spirits. Nevermind that they are not pure Singaporeans. If we want something to be won by 'real' Singaporeans, then nurture your children's talents in sports. Dont be empty-barrels. Personally, I feel that Li Jiawei won. Not Singapore. Good for her, first. Good for country, second.

On that note, believe in Rewards. You'll never know when you'll get one, but you will, if you are committed, have the patience and optimistic. Enjoy what you do and You'll be rewarded.

These Bloody Bladders....

2008-08-14T00:19:00.006+08:00

Its 12.20am, 14th August 2008.

I should be up in 6 hours time; get ready for work. Yet I can't sleep.

If Rushda has constipation problems; I have this.

Its UTI. Urinary Tract Infection.

I've been to the toilet countless time; the "nnnggg" feelings are unbearable.

It's the fear of wetting the bed. Im now kneeling on the floor, facing my sleeping babies, blogging, and waiting for the next urge to go.

I've gulped mugs of water. Im looking forward to this month's utility bill...*flush**flush*

Sidetrack: Michael Phelps...he is talented. His swimming, is superb. I actually wanna say, he is yummy (but of course, Dear. You are yummier lah. But... you can't swim. How?).

It's been BUSY at WORK...

2008-07-01T13:00:00.000+08:00

Just look @ them.... My fellow LV a-list.

We WORKed hard; we must PLAY hard.

Problem-solving: How to untangle ourselves....

Love them to bits. Missing the 3rd and 6th from left... coz they've left. See those 8 rainbow posters at the background? I made them! They depicted the 8 different intelligences from Howard Gardner's theory: Word Smart; Logic Smart; Music Smart; People Smart; Self- Smart; Nature Smart: Body Smart and one more...I cant remember.Proud of them.

Where was I? Behind the camera, getting these "BUSY" people to pose.

Living with my Mother-In-Law...

2008-06-13T22:00:00.001+08:00

Andak not around, went for holiday. Mak came by and stayed over since Sunday night, to care for Durrah during the weekdays, except today. Mak has other commitments. Hanaa was still around, so she accompanied Mak and became Durrah's playmate.

What an unforgettable experience - after a tired day at work, you got home knowing dinner dah cooked (with love) and your baby is happy and smells nice. I felt pampered again.

I am so thankful and blessed that I have a superbly loving and caring Mother-In-Law whom I fondly call Mak. She's old yet she is healthy and is forever with a smile. Come what may, she took it with strides. Very contented with what she has...

I Love Mak, and Mak Loves Us All.

Today- went to Heeren to get his Canterbury polo; then to Parkway for a haircut at Jean Yip. Very short. Annie Lennox kind of short. But the girl screwed the back part of my hair. Nevermind, just wait for it to grow.

The Day I Ruined Dear's Favourite Canterbury

2008-06-08T22:37:00.002+08:00

It has been quite awhile since I was, in the deepest $h!tzii trouble.

I ruined his favourite polo tee. The broad blue and white stripes one. Right. The one that was seen in LOTS of our photos.

MY intention was to get rid of the iron stain on the white collar. It was supposed to be white, so I pinky-dipped CLOROX and rub it on. I underestimated the "effectiveness" and how fast it spread to other non-white parts too. How would I know???? Sigh :/

He was rushing to work. Boy was he reaaaalllly mad. If I could just shrink and join the geckos/ lizards in their hideouts... I would.

So, what kind of damage control done?

After a few hours, I called to say how sorry I was. Really really sorry. He nagged and I listened. Offered to replace the polo tee or get him some kind of vouchers equivalent to the cost of the polo tee or do ANYTHING, WHATEVER that I can do to make it up (not that carbonated drinks la) to him.
Im just so relieved that he was forgiving (that day). So, with Hanaa (aged 11) around, I decided to bring the girls out to The Heeren to get him the same Canterbury polo or vouchers; whichever available.

So we were out on a bus, train and then car! We boycotted the cabs. I double-dared myself just because I had a groovy niece who was around for that weekend. Thanx Hanaa. *Hugzzies* Rushda was very much cooperative the way I wanted her to be. We were at The Heeren, and then Takashimaya's McDonalds for quick bites and Kinokuniya's Children's section; and then Somerset MRT and finally to AMK Hub to meet up with dearest hubba-hubba before heading home.

Saw Kumar at The Heeren. He's cool. Durrah thought otherwise, "Get away, freaky aunty!"

Hanaa Montana - with cousins Durrah and Rushda

Proven - Dadha and babes @ Somerset MRT on a Sunday afternoon.

Never again.

Mother's Day's j.i.n.x for the 2nd time

2008-05-18T20:57:00.004+08:00

That word jinx here is more of defined as "bad befallen" and not that suay kind of "suay" in my context of celebrating Mother's Day, as a mother, a supposedly happy occasion. You see, it happened twice. Once (in '07), I accidentally dislocated Rushda's elbow while trying to move her away from an army of red ants. We were at the beach, then we end up in KK's A&E. This year...

Durrah was not well on Mother's Day (11/5). I noticed her sleeping patterns changed, her moods were so-so, and to think that we actually went out on a rendezvous supposedly "celebrating". She must have felt very very very uncomfortable.

The following Monday night, she had bouts of vomitting. She vomitted on our bed, which bedcovers I've just changed. Nevermind that. I ripped the soiled ones off, and put on a new one. So when Durrah vomitted the second time after midnight, I told myself, "That's it. Must go to the hospital now. Two reasons: 1) She may vomit on the bed and I may need to change the quilt covers again! and 2) Vomitting sucks. Can't bear to see a baby vomit. Kesian. It hurts my gastro-system. With two kids now, we dont panic. At 2.00am, we drove to KK. Only at 5.30am, we get to see the doctor. The A&E sucks. Nevermind that.

We knew Durrah's case was not normal when she needed x-ray, her vomit turned yellowish-greenish and when senior MO was consulted. Eventually, kena warded.

Day 1: Vomitted after every feed. Passed out blood, just blood in her diapers. Weak. Dehydrated. Falls asleep easily. Evening, sent for ultrascan. Report out: Intussuception.

An intussusception (a blockage of the intestine) is a medical condition in which a part of the small intestine that has invaginated into another section of intestine, similar to the way in which the parts of a collapsible telescope slide into one another.[1] The part which prolapses into the other is called the intussusceptum, and the part which receives it is called the intussuscipiens.

An intra-operative view of intussuception.

Day 1 (evening): Durrah had to have drip plug insertion and then go through air-enema procedure. As she was dehydrated, she has to be on drip. Heartbreaking procedures. We were there to see and hear Durrah crying helplessly. That night, Durrah didnt sleep well. I was relieved Dear was around and determined to overnight although ward policy stated only one parent. The nurses at Ward 85 were very understanding. They have their "by-right" rules, and they also shared with me "by-lefts". So that helped me alot.

Day 2: Different doctors - the seniors to the newbies came to check her. Durrah was fine but "NIL BY MOUTH". She was very hungry and grouchy. Drip off! Yes!!!!!

Day 3: Much much better. I will always remember that smile she gave on that morning she woke up. I wanted to go home so badly. She hasnt poop yet. I want to make sure she poops fine and not bloody. Charlotte, a Research Nurse came by and asked for my consent to include Durrah in their study of cases of Intussuception in Singapore. She said its not rare but not common either. Only about 25-30 cases reported a year in Singapore. So far, her statics collected showed that usually it occurs in boys. small percentage of recurrence. Her explanation was clear, I signed the consent form.

Day 4: Drip plug off. Home sweet home. We were thankful it was over. I was secretly in tears whenever Durrah gave me a bright sunshiney smile. I felt useless to see the pain she went through. Credits to Rushda, for her patience and care for adik Durrah. Also to Sufi Khairina, the patient next bed. a 2-yrs-olds girl with bronchitis. We became good neighbours. The day ended with a healthy Durrah, a fevered Rushda and a tired but happy Ummi.

Im still looking forward to next Mother's Day, with the hope of joys and laughters from my girls! Please, no more hospitals.

May Day!! May Day!!

2008-05-04T23:36:00.004+08:00

Just over....

Salary ( with "generous" extras from company and government). Syukur.
A short getaway to Sunway Lagoon. Really short.
The Man U-Chelsea match with the latter winning 2-1. Chelsea kayu! Linesman potek! May they meet again for the finals. This i gotta see.
The HFMD cluster at work. All eight are well. Syukur. May there'll be no future outbreaks.
Mummy's stay at the hospital for heart attack. Mum is due for a heart bypass end of May. Mummy and I.... another separate story, another day.
Shocking news of divorce and marriages. Allah knows best.
Good news - The Udas got their unit at Raintree, Bukit Timah. We are happy for them!!Very close to nature. May the monkeys get to hang around.
Durrah turned 7 months. She's a pie.

Coming Up...

My "non-profit" project at work: Project Multiple Intelligence. This is unlike business projects raking in millions of dollars, but still this is my baby. Im overall in charge, and I truly hope the ladies at work are in this with me. Are you with me gals???
Mother's Day.
Mummy's bypass.
ME time. May I get a ME time, please.

May is not only a month. It is a polite [term] used in English. When you wished for someone something, you say "May you....". And when in a hope for a yes, you say, "May I...". So make May a month of prayer and well-wishes. Yes, I prayed daily in a hope for my prayers to be answered. Im just gonna do more in May.

May you have a good week / month ahead.

Gone (March 2008)

2008-03-25T22:44:00.001+08:00

Alfateha to:

1. Uncle Hasan. Haji Hasanuddin Darsani.... (Got to see a clip of jenazah dikafankan from his brother-in-law's hp. Two opinions: Insaf when you watched; Record your loved one's funeral???? Hmmm, no one should record me on MY funeral. Thats a simple request. This is not TV3).

2. Abang Din. Haji Saifuddin. Nice chap. Good neighbour. Dear, we've lost a humble friend. You've been a good friend. Im proud of you.

3. On waiting list: You, me, loved ones, friends, colleagues, neighbours...... Today? Tomorrow? No one knows.

Our lovable Abi turns 35!

2008-03-24T00:00:00.001+08:00

Dear turned 35! The same ol' him. We celebrated way ahead.... at the chalet. A cluster of birthdays: Mak's, Hadi's, Abang Uda's and Zik's too. I got everyone to sing the birthday song FIVE TIMES. Which reminds me.... My 30 is coming!

Front Row: Dear, Mak and Hadi.

Back Row: Zik and Abang Uda.

I see ME!! Good thing the polo and cap were in the bag. Got flour all over me after the game. Clueless over what happened. Anyway, they are saviours.

All I did was to hold up my camera... They cant help it.

Bouquet of Gerberas for Mak. Not for me :/

The midnight bowling tournaments....

Happy Birthday, Dear. Im getting him the Garmin GPS he is eyeing for his ultimate ride!

Durrah featured in a U.S magazine

2008-03-07T07:09:00.005+08:00

I'm excited to find out from cousin Ed (Javascrapper) that her layout of Durrah has been picked to appear on an online magazine called Scrapstreet.

This doesn't happen all the time, so, yes I'm excited and I am proud and envious of Ed's creative juices in scrapbooking. Read all about it here.

Thanx Ed!Thanx for making my day!

Who Moved My Ice-Creams?

2008-02-25T00:59:00.002+08:00

See?

Something amiss. What ehhhhh??? Oh I know! Chubby Hubby!!!

Going to catch the culprit soon. CCTV.

Describe R.A.U.D.H.A...

2008-02-18T08:34:00.003+08:00

Realistic

Awesome

Unusual desire of doing something different

Deadly practical & Divinely romantic at the same time

Honour others

Anak perempuan to Sal & Bert

Got to know about this tag from cousin Javascrapper blog. This was what it says: " You must list one fact about yourself for each letter of your middle name. Each fact must begin with that letter. If you don't have a middle name, just use your maiden name. After you've been tagged, you need to up-date your blog with your middle name and answers. At the end of your post, you need to tag one person for each letter of your middle name. (Be sure to leave them a comment telling them they've been tagged and need to read your blog for details)."

Its hard to think of a name starting with each of the letter. Hmmmm.... Lets try... Rizal; Ann; Uda(??)(perhaps Kak Erni who has a blog!); Dilah; Hoo-ever you are; Anybody.

What I DIDN'T do on Chinese New Year...

2008-02-10T22:24:00.007+08:00

1. Travel across the Causeway.

2. Spend the day or night at East Coast Beach or Changi Beach.

3. Go to the malls.

What I DID on CNY days...

1. Spend the first two mornings watching a CNY specials on TV1. I now know more about the culture. Check out famous fengshui expert, Lilian Too. Also, there's more to just reunion and Lo Hei and Hongbaos.

2. Made breakfast for Mummy who spent the first morning here. Treat Mummy for breakfast on the second day.

3. Better than Seoul Garden was, dinner at Cik Alin's. The best was- gathering the families and just chill out.

4. Celebrate Faatin's actual birthday at Pergam yesterday. The highlights was Chu's cheesecake and Toey's treat of Ben&Jerry's !!!! Late night dinner at Simpang Bedok - tom yum yummm.

5. Today, chill out day at Chu's. She made a salmon platter. Surf YouTube and take lots of photos.

Durrah the Red Dragon!

CNY Dinner @ Cik Alin & Cik Yan's

Sunday @ Chu's

Ode to My Husband

2008-02-06T22:38:00.000+08:00

Dear, It has been 10 years. Good, enjoyable, priceless 10 years. Today marks the 4th year of marriage. Not bad lah. We sailed thru well. I cant deny that I can be quite an arse sometimes. That is because, you have been one too. Heeheheh... I love you, love your family, love your originality. Thanks for your patience and great listening ears - your advice and motivation, especially lately. Thanks for your effort to make this family works. You're a good daddy, husband and son-in-law.

I Empathize...

2008-02-06T21:15:00.000+08:00

I emphatize easily. More so recently. One incident involves a fast-foeod delivery call. In the midst of taking my order, suddenly she shouted "I know! I know! Aiyah... Im taking call now right? I knowwww I knowww", responding irritably to another person at the background. Further details:

She: Sorry ah. Some people ah.. aiyah.. they just dont understand. You see ah Im the only Chinese here, the rest are Malays. So when got Chinese calls, they all push to me.

Me:(emphatize)...Oh, iszit? Then why dont you push my call to a Malay?

She: Cannot lah, cannot. We cannot do that. Aiyah.. nevermind. "Some people". So what you want to order?

She took down my order with repeated mistakes but I can understand how frustated she was. She continued to speak in a friendly tone. I patiently corrected her. She was kind. She ended the call with the must-say line. I liked the effort she put in.

I also emphatize with this trainee at work who has committed a shocking crime - she pee(ed) while 4 little girls watched her. The children's toilet was out of bound. So all were instructed to use the one and only adult toilet. She was supposed to supervise their visit to the loo. My guess was, she couldnt hold on any longer, and thought, what-the-heck, "wait for me. I need to pee".

To her horror, Lady Marmalade herself opened the door only to see her (the trainee) with her pants down and everything else. Thank goodness I didnt see anything, but boy, was I speechless and shocked. I was so fused up, I started to question her in my broken Mandarin. She denied what she has done. I told her in Mandarin, that she can deny all she wants, but that 4 innocent girls are witnesses. And that, they will tell.

But then, i started to EMPATHIZE with her during the counselling session with Lady Marmalade. Anyway, she admitted eventually. She didnt realized what she was doing. To her, its a norm because she does it at home with her little girl looking. They still bathe together. She apologized. I pity her. Not easy for her, as she needs to get used to our culture in Singapore. She's not local. I hope things are fine, and I wanna be sure to act as normal when I see her on Monday.

My Babes

2008-02-04T22:53:00.000+08:00

A Surprise Visitor in Dear's Mug!

2008-01-31T03:06:00.000+08:00

Now,I'll be telling people: The next time BEFORE you drink, just to be safe, rinse your mug/cup well.

I discovered a LIZARD half drowned in Dear's mug of MILO!!!!! It was left overnight. I screamed in deafening decibels, he didnt bother to wake up and see. Because of his beady eyes (the LIZARD, not Dear's), I really can't tell if its dead or alive.

Disgusted, I screamed to make him move (Dear. Not the LIZARD). No effect, so I amuse myself by testing my level of bravery - to take a second look. Cant tell if it's making his way out of the mug or dead. I left it there and went to shower.

The mug and the lizard are now gone. Decided to throw both. I wont throw Dear away (I would if I could- for not standing by his woman. Gurr-ram). So sayang, that man-ly Coffee Bean mug was my gift for Dear on his first Father's Day. I'm getting him a new mug, with a lid, of course. I wonder... how long was the lizard in there? Could Dear be another CICAKMAN? I hope not.

I wont forget this conversation between Dear and Rushda: Dear: Rushda, ini mug Abi. Rushda:(Thinking he said, "mak") Mana dia punya bapak?

Of New Year....

2008-01-26T01:11:00.000+08:00

We are into the 25th day of 2008 and 17th day of 1429 Hijriah.

Theoretically speaking, I'll be 30 this year. Yearp, I'll be 30-years-old.

The big Three-Zero!

Am I looking forward to it? Of course! So many things in mind when you are hitting 30.

I day-dreamed of travelling alone, far far away; away from the husband, parents, children, work; just be away from Singapore/Asia - to reflect on what have I achieved in life; what is pending for my attention/ immediate actions especially spiritually; what have I failed; how do I re-shaped my dream in life, etc.

At the same time, I've been thinking about death too. Yes, dying...

Recently, I lost a grand-uncle whom I will fondly remembered as Tok Chu. His wife (my Nek Chu) also battled with colon cancer for about 4 years. (Nek Chu-May 2007; Tok Chu- Jan 2008). Rest In Peace.

Its only natural that this is coming to me. Today, during an outing with Dear and babes, I was looking at him while he was reading his magazine. That indescribable feeling crept in me, "which one of us will die first?... Dear, if I die tomorrow, I want u to know I love you; love love love you. Will there ever be someone to replace me? Will you raise the girls the way we wanted them to be...." That was my inner voice. Imagine how Dear will react if I were to tell him those; he'd probably tell me its my wisdom tooth, which is so aching right now. Hah.

Death aside, Im writing down a will. I am listing down names of people who will inherit my priceless "fortunes" - my books. My textbooks, children storybooks, teaching ideas books, fiction, non-fiction books, parenting magazines, DVDs/CDs. They are so precious to me, do not donate them away! In my will, I will nominate the important people in my life to inherit my Swatch collection; frame collection; paperbags (branded) collection,etc. I cant remember who I nominated to inherit my untouched CPF savings. I shall get my will ready and signed soonest. Thirty is coming.

Dear is gearing up for his "ultimate ride" in November. Destination: Golden Triangle.

We were talking the other day, I told him this (and only Allah knows how I tried to hold back my tears): "I want you to promise me that you will come back riding your bike. I do not want to be the one to fetch you or... God forbids...collect you". To which he answered, "Insya- Allah".

Very taboo right? Lets give it a rest.

Rushda - 1 year ago.

Last 2 weeks of December

2007-12-19T11:01:00.000+08:00

I am so looking forward to the last 2 weeks of December. Superb-ly shiokz from how I look at it.

First and foremost, Im looking forward to Mummy's discharge. It should be before Christmas. Her coughing is managable. She had two rounds of blood transfusion and had this large bruise on her right arm. Dr Jason Chua said she had lung infection. Her sugar level is unstable, so she probably would have to take insulin jabs daily, and longer dialysis cycles. I pray for her speedy recovery. Mum had been strong and a bit manja. Aside from that...

#1: Hari Raya Haji (Thurs, 20/12)
#2: Centre Closure (Fri, 21/12): Although we need to report to work, it is work minus the kids and toddies. Time for handover of duties and other stuffs. My agenda for that day is to check on the Math aids, update Inventory and pass to Tess. Then there is meeting, the brainstorming session and tinge of gossiping and kniving. In the itinerary would be, Lady Marmalade trying to boost the team's morale by making us complete one of those free take-one postcards with catchy positive time-to-reflect taglines (which reminds me of Zilah's wish she wrote in one of the cards. She was out of point, so she wrote: "To win the Subaru Challenge"... hilarious).
#3: No Work Day (Sat, 22/12): Persuading Dear to send me to Jusco Permas Jaya to get those retro wrappers for my class borders. Its neat and funky. The girls at work love it. Im running low with it. Lesson learnt- borders can be wrappers from SINGAPORE.
#4: Christmas Eve (Mon 24/12): Work half-day!!!!!!!!
#5: Christmas Holiday (Tue 25/12): No working. House working. Probably Mummy will be discharged.
#6: New Year's Eve (mon 31/12): Work half-day!!!!!!
#7: Rushda turns 3 (Tues 1/1): To party or not to party??? The next day is a school day! 2008 sees Firdaus and Sarah in P1! Safiyah in morning session, and Hadi in Sports Sc hool. I share their parents' excitement and anxiety. Ok, as for the party, need to think abt it.

How does it feel?... Your loved one is dying

2007-12-15T23:16:00.000+08:00

Lately, I am saddened by news that people I know, are either suffering or has perished from cancer.

Aunty Rabiah, a very very very kind and generous neighbour and a family friend, died from stomach cancer a week before Ramadhan. She was in her 40s and was diagonosed about 3 years back. Her wish to see her eldest girl Alia to be married was fulfilled. Alia was 24. The wedding for Alia was "expected", because Aunty Rabiah has a sister who died just a few years back; this sister didnt live long enough to witness her own one-and-only daughter's wedding.

How did Alia feel? Knowing mum has cancer and was uncertain then, but went on getting married?

---------------------------------

Last Sunday, made my way to Mahkota Medical Centre in Malacca to visit Uncle Hasanuddin. During Ramadhan, we got a call from Aunty Minah, telling us that Uncle Hasan's right knee has swollen double the size, it was so bad that he couldn't walk. How did that happened? "He knocked onto the edge of a table". On 2nd of December, they transit at Pergam, planning for one night stay. By then, his condition has worsened, he was coughing out blood. Ayah drove them to MMC that very same night. Imagine that- just a knock on the table, and can't walk for more than a month.

With all that suffering comes this news: Uncle Hasan was diagnosed third stage of lung cancer - hence, the coughs; doctor 'gave' him 4 to 5 months to live. He has a slim chance to recover. As for the leg, the cancer has spread down to his leg. The latest update I had was, he undergone a surgery to correct the joints on his right leg. He can now walk, and will be discharged today. From Malacca, they are staying for a night at Pergam, before taking a ferry back to Kuala Tungkal. Indonesia.

Oh, and he is not aware he has cancer and was 'given' 4-5 months to live.

Aunty Minah has requested that Uncle Hasan not know about this.

How does it feel? Knowing your husband has 4 to 5 months to live?

-----------------------------------------------------------

Aunty Norbi, passed away on Friday, 14/12/2007, with husband, children and grandchildren present. She was 61. A nice lady too. I see her during Hari Raya and at relatives' weddings. I remembered Aunty Norbi helping out in packing my wedding berkats days before my wedding.

I was told that hers was liver cancer.

I was also told that doctor has informed the family to keep vigil as in her case, it was "anytime".

Mummy went to visit on Wednesday and shared with us that, she was just "waiting for time". Ayah went on Thursday, and told me that the family is arranging to move her to a single-bed ward. Eventually, they brought her home on Thursday night. She passed away Friday night.

How does it feel? When you have to sit by your mother's death bed? Knowing that it is "anytime"?

--------------------------------------------------------

Mummy has been having cough for the past one week. When she coughs, it sounded "bronchitis" to me. Two days ago, she started to cough out blood too. She is breathless, her ankles are bigger probably due to water retention. She insisted on going to the hospital tomorrow, as she has appointment at the Peritoneal Dylasis clinic. In Mummy's case, clearly no issues on life-span. She is suffering from diabetes and failing kidneys. Is she dying too? Like Uncle Hasan?

"Kau nak percaya pada doctor atau percaya pada Allah"?

How do I feel? How do I feel? Allah, please give me strengths

Its School Holiday!

2007-11-19T09:11:00.000+08:00

School is OUT. Singapore will be congested with human traffic. I heard there were weddings around the island yesterday; judging from the number of invitation cards at Pergam, as well as, "complains" from nenek-neneks. Was at the wedding of Mardhiyah's cousin yesterday. The weather was a teaser. Scorching hot in the morning, then heavy downpours in the late afternoon. Seeing the ladies wearing baju kurung makes my hair stands. It was just sooo hot, how long can they tahan the heat in those songket/linen/satin baju? Blah. It's over anyway. If they have worn the baju for the subsequent time since Hari Raya, then, its time for dry-cleaning.

Last Week...

Connie, Randall and their K2 son, Clement, came by to visit us. Connie just got back from a Paris flight the night before. They got us Carter's baby rompers from L.A. I love Carter's. Noticed her left earring missing. We searched high and low, but managed to find only the backing (the screw thing), but not the earring. So geram. So anyway, Connie has left her flying career. As at today, she would be at her new working place. A sacrifice. For the sake of Clement, who is going to P1. Need to spend more time together. Randall is also flying. I guess can still get free tickets to travel. Connie promised to pass me her SIA green kebaya for school's activities, etc.Went to work to sit in for Planning 2008 meeting. No choice but to bring Durrah along. Obviously, she became the centre of attention. Liping must have been annoyed coz it was hard for them to pay attention. Hehehe.

Edleen suggested to meet up at Plaza S'pura for some shopping and dinner. Ajak Chu along. I know what they will be shopping for- scrap stuffs from Made With Love. I dont mind. Promised myself to use up all the scrap stuffs I bought earlier, and to complete my unfinished projects, before buying more. So i was good. The kids and me, we sat around for large cookies and shakes. We then had dinner at Swensens. Uncle Faizal bo. Dear was convinced that all of us can squeezed in the car. We sent Edleen and Chu home. Hard to believe there were 10 various-sizes people in the little Mazda 2. Boleh tahan.

Durrah is crying. Journalling has to wait.

Take It Easy. There Are Only Two!!

2007-11-14T15:42:00.000+08:00

Two. The number of children living in the house now. Two. It sounds and looks crowded. I'm coming to term that I am now a mother of two children- an infant and a toddler.

*u-know-what-I-mean look*

Four can be a crowd; but the more is definitely the merrier. I can't have the best of everything(read: an infant, a toddler, a spruced up house plus a good night sleep and uninterrupted routines) all the time.

Having said that, dearest husband and the two girls are the best things for me now.

Rushda doing a puppet act with her socks she dug out from her drawer filled with perfectly folded pile of clothes.

Below: Conspiracy Whisperies...

Rushda caught: Unfastening Durrah's diapers while I was away to get something. When probed, she explained that she was trying to help.

I'm okay. I'm fine. I'm cool.

Our Second Newborn- Durrah

2007-10-30T08:09:00.000+08:00

Earlier this month, on 2nd October 2007; 1203hr; this little one was lifted out of the cozy warm womb of mine. We celebrated the birth of numero dos. We named her Durrah- Precious Pearl (arabic origin). Here she is...Durrah weighs 3.7kg and was 50cm in length. Yet again, it was another episode of tightly-shut cervix albeit the contractions. Dr Chandra advised us to call off our birthplan and proceed with cesarean surgery. That decision was made two days before October 1st, which was originally the EDD. I was dissapointed.

What a Deja vu. Plot sama macam Rushda in 2005.

Anyway, knowing that my cervix was not in a "favourable" condition to be induced, I was given two options; either I wait and wait till labour comes naturally OR get baby out (cesarean) before any complications arises. I chose the second option simply because after all the false contractions and extra weight, all I was thinking of is to get it over and done with.

First heard of epidural cesar from Kak Erni. Im convinced that the chances of coughing/sneezing are very low, so I opt for regional anasthesia this time. Because from the first experience, I was unconscious; on GA. The coughings aftermath were unforgettable horror ! To prepare myself emotionally and visually, i watched videoclips of epid-cesar at YouTube. The first few times made me squirmed and weak. I rolled on the floor to gain strength lah! Then, TV was airing In The Womb at that time, and there was a mother who had quadruplets, thru epidural cesarean section. Mother gets to 'greet' each of them. Then, there was THE STITCHING... and there was the HUSBAND! Husband in the operation theatre?????? Yes. The night before the surgery was an emotional one. I sobbed uncontrollably as I listened to the azan and iftar with Dear. Nervous breakdown and the first stage of fear sunk in. Real one. The next day...

Somehow macam more relaxed and anticipated the procedures. Unforgettable moments:

After being given the enema shot via anal, I wanted to poop so badly, seconds after the cleaner went in the private loo to do routine cleaning. Imagine the LONG 5 minutes wait. Fooh. Bagus jugak lah, as I poop, I inhale the freshly pine-scented toilet. So clean.
Being wheeled to the elevator and seeing the attendant pressed the Level 2 button. (Thats where the Ops Theatre is).
Seeing Dr Chandra and his wife, Dr Tiwari in their scrub suits and white pasar boots; waiting for my arrival.
Dr Loo, the anesthetist explaining to me what he will do and how "we prepare you 'cantik-cantik' before your husband see you."
"Cantik-cantik" includes inserting the IV tube to my hand. OK. Sit up and crouching forward like a prawn. OK. Feeling the shocking sharp pain of the epid-jab. Not OK. Getting the 3 immediate side-effects: feels like vomitting, shivering and itch on the face. OK. Feeling the catheter inserted even before I am fully numb. Not OK. Ugh. I hated that.
Seeing Dear walked into the OT wearing full scrub suit with head-cover, facial mask... how I wished we could take photo together. Macam Grey's Anatomy. We were so matched.
Both Dr Loo and Dr Chandra asked if I can feel a pinch. I asked them, "which one of you are pinching me???" Dr Loo answered, "it doesn't matter. We will proceed now".
The smell of something burning. The sound of liquid suctions.
Asking Dear if he could see whats happening. He chose not to look.
When Dr Tiwari said: "Ok. Get ready. The baby is coming out now" and when Dr Loo assisted by pushing out baby from the top of my tummy. "1..2..3..."
The baby's cries, and Dear's gentle and assuring strokes on my forehead.
Seeing Durrah for the first time.
The shivers turned to sweat......HOT!
When seeing a familiar nurse, I greet'em: "I remember you. Remember me?..."
Dear, Rushda, Durrah and me had our private moment in the ward.

Im no longer pregnant!

2007-10-05T20:52:00.000+08:00

Im not pregnant anymore! The baby has been safely delivered on Tuesday, 2nd Oct 2007, 1203hr @ Eastshore Hospital. We just got home today, with LOTS of freebies and gifts from my dearest colleagues at LV. More details in my next post. Meanwhile, I'll be busy dealing with major engorgements, night feeds, changing diapers, keeping the house clean, taking medicines, entertaining Rushda and Dear at the same time, and countless more chores not mentioned here. Providing family's basic needs, basically. *Breathing in* Keeping my sane hat on. Praying hard i will not drop dead.

Not Yet...

2007-09-26T16:23:00.000+08:00

Been through many contractions.
Been talking to friends who related their birth experiences; latest being Inah (7.45pm reached East Shore, 8.10pm, safely delivered Ammar Al-Hakeem. Masya-Allah!). Inah went through Cesarean birth for No.1, but normal delivery for No.2 (with epidural) and No.3 (no time for epidural!). SHE's the one I'm going to listen to.
Been fasting.
Been staying at home since Monday, 24/09/07.
Been busy trying to keep Rushda's temperature down. She's got the viral fever since Thursday, and it reached 39.8 on Saturday. We scooted off to KK and got the "Red Door" attention. As at today, she is better. No more bloodied nose.
Been moving about.... including heavy stuffs at home. This is what I call "self-induce". Still, no sign yet.

I go see what other things I can do now. Meanwhile, you take care. My next update would probably be about the birth of junior.

A Year Older

2007-09-18T23:05:00.000+08:00

Today WAS my birthday.

No big celebration this year. More of a quiet one. It should be that way, as everyone should be staying focus with their fasting. May Allah bless us all in this sacred Ramadhan.

The first birthday wishes came through SMS. The message tones were ringing even at 2am. A big thanks to my friends and cousin who remembered. Then got my special birthday kiss from Dear during Sahur. We didnt talk much, just eat. Rushda woke up, and told her its my birthday. Got her to sing for me- with that smelly breath!

Ayah sent us to school today, and he has forgotten about it. Mum called, asking me to come over for iftar, but she too, forgotten all about it. Just now, after iftar, as Ayah was about to leave for terawih, I declared, "Ayah, Mummy, today is my birthday". Mummy went, "Iyyerrr???? Astaghfirullahal azim, keNapa tak cakap?! Kesian lah".

Told her I want her to bake me Puteri Salat. I'm getting it tomorrow!

Ramadhan Reminders

2007-09-14T13:14:00.000+08:00

"From: Nisha Omar Date: 09/12/07 19:59:37 To: Recipients

Subject: Happy Ramadhan.. Selamat Menyambut Ramadhan

To my dearest ones

Wish you and family Happy Ramadhan..

Ensure that you abide by the instructions as per attached image.

Lots of Luv..

Muni Omar

Naughty naughty Muni.Wonder how is it like puasa in London?

In Singapore currently. whether is cooling. Its pouring heavily now.

Random thoughts @ current: pedicure (yes, so my toes look good during my stay in hospital); doughnuts (Ann and brother Toey mentioned yest during iftar. Cet); my 2 friends who have just given birth (how you nak payback puasa later haaa? One month leh)

Sahur:Imsak:Iftar:Terawih:

2007-09-13T05:36:00.000+08:00

1 Ramadhan 1428 Hear that? Azan Subuh. "Assolatu khairun minannaum"

Woke up around 4am. The urge to go to the loo was strong. As I balance to stand, I felt discomfort. After 15 minutes of self-observation, I strongly believes its REAL contractions. As to whether I AM in labour first-stage, I cant tell. I have informed Dear (who felt the tremor at his work place yesterday. When he called me minutes after Maghrib, background was filled with laughters and noises. Evacuation is fun, I guess). Told him about my dilemma of to-work-or-not-to-work. Im due in 2 weeks...

Not now, can???? Hang in there, baby. Let Mummy puasa at least a week, clean up the house, and pack my hospital bag.

Ini saya dan makanan iftar. Dalam kandungan waktu itu ialah Rushda.

Selamat menjalani ibadah puasa.

Ending A Call

2007-09-10T20:23:00.000+08:00

Rushda and my cousin talked on the phone last night.

After about 10 minutes of chat, Rushda said, "Okay Khuwailah. Bye".

Over and over again, she will get back to the conversation. Finally...

(on loudspeaker)

Khuwailah: Ok, good night. Rushda put down the phone.

Rushda: Ok, bye. Khuwailah put down the phone.

(putting the phone away from her ears, but still looking at it... listen again)

Rushda: Khuwailah put down the phone. THE END. Ok, put down.

How old is Rushda again????

A Night of Elegance....

2007-09-04T14:16:00.001+08:00

Semua Cantik....

Some are Mummies and some are SINGLES!!!!

Sweet September Ahead....

2007-09-02T08:14:00.001+08:00

A few things to remember in this sweet September...

The Birth of Junior #2/ Other Births!

I am 36 weeks now. Junior has been REALLY active; giving me sleepless nights including last night. I finally slept at 4am+, realised it was 6.30am, but was just too exhausted to get up and do my Subuh. By the next blink, it was already 7.3oam. Rushda wanted milk.
Need to do up the bedroom for Rushda and Junior, soon. Waiting for Dear to drive us down to IKEA or something.
Birthdays coming up!! Intan (4/9); Syaza (11/9); Chu (24/9). Will Junior pop out before 1/10? My bet is 30/9.
I really want to get some shots of myself with my belly. Patrick has agreed to it. Im excited! It'll be his first 'belly' assignment.

Being Pretty/ Dolling Up

Last night was my company's dinner. The theme this year is "Elegant Black & Red". I just cant fit into Mummy's black & red 2-pc Baju Panjang, so I wore the red chiffon dress Uncle Haron made 2 yrs back. Yesterday was more special for me as I had 'hired' Sharifah to do my make-up! It was kind of her to agree to my forever last-minute 50/50 request. She did GREAT! This year, I had fake eyelashes on. Hahaha. It went well with the colours she had on my eyes. She said they are called Smoky technique. Whatever that is, I know I was 'sssssmoking~~~'. Not only that, she lent me her self-made brooch. My beloved Ayah sent us all the way to Grand Hyatt. Met up with the others. Everyone was elegant yes. The most outstanding was Tess! I almost couldnt recognize her. Pheeewit.
Today is Aza's wedding. Will be attending it later. Wish I could find that heart-shaped couple coffee cups from Starbucks, to present her. Unlikely. But will try. Should I wear what I wore yesterday, minus the make-up? What if I bump into yesterday's ppl?

Ramadhan/ Planning

Ramadhan falls on 13/9. Im DONE with bayar puasa. Alhamdulillah. Will try to fast with others before I pop. I may only get the first half to fast. Its okay- belum try, belum tahu.
This time round, everyone will be busy. With the ibadah of fasting going on during my confinement, I cant imagine having Mummy or MIL to cook for me. Malu seh. Recently, MIL suggested to Dear that I stay over at their place for confinement. With FIL around? Errrrr.....
More work to submit before I pop. Dateline BIG TIME tomorrow. Wish me luck.

A Teacher...

2007-08-31T21:01:00.000+08:00

1st September 2007

Students all over Singapore will be commemorating this day dedicated to teachers.... Happy Teacher's Day to all the teachers who have taught me once before. Hope I am remembered as the good student. :)

I still remember my kindergarten teachers. They were ever so sweet, gentle and kind. Still remember my asatizahs during my 10 years stint in Alsagoff. Not forgetting the lecturers at all the institutions I've been in, as a student. Their teachings have touched my life, in many ways. No wonders I'm enjoying what I'm doing now. More meaningful when I receive thank you messages, flowers and gifts from parents and students. I feel blessed.

A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell, where his influence stops.

Henry B. Adams

29 weeks pregnant!

2007-07-14T19:29:00.000+08:00

29 weeks; thats equivalent to 7 months and 1 week pregnant. Alhamdulillah. This shot was taken a week ago in KLCC. Rushda is loving towards her unborn sibling. Hope she stays so AFTER the arrival.

Today, I went for my ante-natal check up. Everything is fine. The baby is around 1.5kg and growing. This is the time I have to watch my diet. I can be diabetic again like the previous pregnancy. Already as it is, they discovered a similar fibroid-like growth in me again this time. So does that mean cesar procedure again? Or could it be VBAC?

Hhmmm, both are still painful. I have been thinking about the whole birth thing. It is still a scary thought. Reading up related articles helps. I do flipped back past issues of parenting magz. Short effect. The fear is still there.

Tawakkal Alallah.

I'm not sure how many others experience this- but do husbands usually are less-sensitive towards subsequent pregnancy? Today, I reminded Dear that he hasnt been talking to No.2 nor stroke my bump as frequent as the first time. To me, touch and communication are essential. It is PROVEN. Okay, Im just encouraging. If Dear doesnt want to make the efforts... well, we'll just see if No.2 responds to his voice.

10 Reasons Why I Married This Man

2007-06-19T22:12:00.000+08:00

I was TAGGED by Blossom. Actually, I read about it days before. Told myself to pen down 101 reasons, and later on choose the best 10. Told myself to grab a pen and scribble it somewhere in my notebook before sleeping. It never happened. Nevertheless, the thoughts were always there. So, here are the 10 Reasons WHY I Married This Man... UNPLUGGED.

#1 Destiny. Jodoh.

#2 Attraction to his following characters: shy, soft-spoken, down-to-earth, respectful towards others, honest, caring, easy-going, loving... :) NOT a show-off, loud, flirtatious, yaya-papaya nor empty barrel.

#3 Performs his religious obligations eg: If there is a need for us to meet, and it is time to pray, there's no issue of going to the mosque(s) and perform solat on time; bulan puasa tak jumpa pun tak apa, "terawih more important". I am very sure he was sincere about it, because, post-marriage, still consistent on religious obligations.

#4 His goals in life then, were the same as mine eg: strived for higher education; be married to someone who has the basic-intermediate knowledge about Islam and most importantly, practising it.

#5 We were put through the TEST. The endurance and patience test between 1998-2004. He endured and was patient throughout. He didn't give up. I did. Many times. (Im a woman, mah~~)

#6 Attracted to his physical traits: Tall, dark, sweet smile, medium-built, clean/neat look, to sum it up- Handsome. (Handsome konon).

#7 His cues and hints that he wants to spend the rest of his life with me eg: shared about his parents expectations; devastated at the thought of 'breaking-up'.

#8 The day he came to my place alone and talked to my parents, like a MAN. Very the GUTSY. My tears were flowing freely. Plus, my dad, he was like, the BEST DAD in the universe. Very UNDERSTANDING.

#9 Got the GREEN light from our parents.

#10 Allah is The Most Loving and Merciful. He created the LOVE. I felt it even before we met. I felt the LOVE impact/chemistry between us when we were corresponding on mIRC, ICQ and then later on, over the phone.

There you are, 10 reasons why I married my husband- UNPLUGGED. There's more to it lah.

Dear, I know you will be reading this post.... I want the world to know I love you. I LOVE YOU.

Eh? Are you blushing? Shy eh?

Thank you for the wonderful years together. More to come, baby!

To Blossom, thank you very much for this TAG opportunity. I'm lucky to get your husband's brother. And you are lucky too, to get my husband's brother. Hahahhaha...

Sawadeekaaaap @ Phuket, Thailand

2007-06-02T11:31:00.000+08:00

Sawadeekaaaaap!

[Better late than never. Oh geez, what else is new. Procrastinate.]

So this is it- cerita kita cuti-cuti Thailand.

The very first important fact- we travelled by car, not plane. Yes, car, ALL the way to Phuket. The second key fact here- our little Rushda, 2.3 years old, survived the journey. The third essential fact- her little sister/brother, 16weeks in-womb, survived too. Alhamdulillah. Highly recommended for adventurous family.

Departure- April 6, 2007. (1.30am) After the emotional goodbyes with the neneks and toks, we moved off via Tuas Link. Around 5.30am, we were at Rawang R&R for Subuh and short break. It was a smooth drive. Obviously, I was asleep all the way. It was Dear driving solo. 3pm- Reach Langkawi Yes. We stopover for 2 nights in Langkawi. Mutiara Burau Bay was our choice. A dissapointing discovery to the room at first. However, we got used to the chalet. Hmm, pictures tell a thousand lie. I believed we were the only "local" melayu there. The rest were bikini-clad mat salehs and families. We were this close to Pak Lah and the Malaysia's Agong, as they officiated the Water Festival @ Kuah, Langkawi. Pantai Cenang, Pantai Kok are names of beaches there, and there were happenings at the former. Parties and exhibitions everywhere. Highlights: 1. Cable Car ride @ Bukit Mat Cincang. We dare not walk at the bridge, suspended 1000m+. Reaching the peak was GOOD enough for me.

2. Visit to Makam Mahsuri. We watched an in-house play about how she was framed, and sentenced to death. Mahsuri prayed that if she is innocent, let her blood be white as she bleeds, to prove her innocence. All she did was- sparing a cup of water for the thirsty warrior who happened to pass by. What a drama. I cried. The play is staged 3pm daily. If you are there, dont miss it. 3. Sunset @ Kuah Jetty (the one that we were 'this' close to the VIPs).

Of course, there are many other things we did like, visiting the Underwater World, feasting on seafood at Pantai Cenang, drive around to look for Minyak Gamat. They are famous for that. Then... Monday, April 9th, 2007 2pm- We were at Sadao Malaysia-Thai Border! 7.15pm- We arrived at Sarasin Bridge, linking Phuket to mainland. LOOOONG DRIVE. We watched Happy Feet countless runs. We safely arrived at our 5-Star Blue Marine Resort & Spa, Patong Beach. We were so tired, we slept with the door ajar (until we got a call from reception. Security is good there).

Highlights of Phuket:

Drive up to one of the highest peak in Phuket, Kata Viewpoint.

Patong Beach, post-tsunami 2004.

Rushda had her hair braided. For a toddler to sit still for more than 10 minutes... amazing. Dear got his feet massage here too. I was busy shopping at Bangla Street.

Elephant Ride!!! Rushda tidur!!!

Thursday, April 12th, 2007

Depart for Hatyai. We were there for the annual Songkran Festival. Dear seems to know this place so well. He usually rides up to Hatyai for this occasion.

Basically, you get wet, and floors get slippery as people throw water at you. Sometimes, powder too. On Friday, April 13th, 2007, people gathered on the streets with imitation Super-Soakers, pails, ice, what-have-yous; and you just need to be on guard. Unfortunately for me, I slipped and fell on wet ceramic tiles. Hit my head on the floor, causing excruciating pain, that made people rushed me to the hospital. Head is fine, foetus is fine, despite the killing pain the next morning.

That's the story of our holiday. Go. Its holiday season, all season in Thailand. Kaphun kaap, that's thank you in Thai, for reading my post.

Supernatural and Me- last episode

2007-05-02T21:18:00.000+08:00

Today is already May 2nd- exactly a month after my last post.

My intention wasn't to share-n-scare really! But I had concern calls even from long-lost pals; and I met a friend, Mariati, who told me about her dream. More TATUT then what I encountered...

Mariati, I just have to record that here too.

We met last Saturday, the first thing she greeted me with was, "I had a dream about you and your daughter. Seram seh"...

"In your kitchen ada baby, tapi baby ni is a hantu. She can't leave your kitchen as you have these grills at the window (probably Mummy Hantu is waiting outside the grill). You call the baby BONYOT. She will crawl and hang around in your kitchen... We were scared to enter the kitchen. Rushda took one pacifier and showed it to you, and you just threw it to the baby hantu in the kitchen. It is invisible. Kalau langgar, we will feel pain- semut2".

More scary than experiencing the actual thing. I actually imagined the baby has the "Ju-On" look, not Casper.

Thanks Mary for sharing. On that note, I sincerely would like to thank those who have left comments (nasihat, tips, concerns, etc)on my posting. I take note of the amalans recommended by you. Nowadays, ayatul-kursi is read whenever I can. Since the langgar incident, I sent Rushda away for 4 nights. While Dear worked night shift, I decided to play Yaya-Papaya, and Alhamdulillah, peaceful nights.

At least go kitchen,kaki tak semut2. Terpijak an army of semut2 lagi ada.

My next post would be about our drive up to Langkawi, Phuket and then Hatyai. It was our Holiday Of The Year!

"Supernatural" in my very own home

2007-04-02T13:09:00.000+08:00

I just have to come back to record these events which has happened to me recently.

I am modern yet conservative. I believe in the Oneness of Allah, and I also know about the existence of 'supernatural' in many kinds. In Islam, there are jinns and satans. They can appear in many forms regardless of gender, race or religion.

My encounter with some of them recently.

February 9th, Friday, around 2am:

Around 11pm, Rushda woke up, Rushda: "Ummie, sakit peyut. I nak 'yak'" (Got down from bed). "Okay you yak first, then we wash ok" I said half-asleep. Rushda woke me again, "Mi~ wash" (we washed and put on diaper...back to bed) "Ummie, I nak Hi-5".

I switched on her favourite Hi-5 cd, and she watched it with hubb sleeping next to her in the living room. I went back to the room. Obviously enough, Im half-dead. Tak kuasa. Just layankan. At around 2am, she came in with hubb, "Ummie, I nak susu". Arrrggghhh, annoyed, I went to the kitchen to make milk, went back to bed.

This was what I said to her: "Rushda must sleep ok. We are going to school early morning" and I turned away from her, and the moment I closed my eyes, I heard a female voice repeatedly saying this: "Rushda Rushda; Rushda Rushda".

It was so clear, I couldnt be dreaming, I know Im not dreaming because I JUST closed my eyes. I turned to look at hubb, whose back was facing me. I looked at Rushda. She paused from drinking and looked at me too. I wonder if she had heard it....I closed my eyes again... the voice came again, this time softer.

And so I was told, the softer it is, the nearer it is too. Ok. Takut Time. I recited whatever I can recite. That night, I dreamt, a hand from the window, holding on to the blinds in our living room, violently shook them. The person seemed angry and trying to get into the house. That person wanted Rushda. I told Dear, "nothing will happen. She cant get in because we solat and ngaji".

March 31st, Saturday, midnight:

We just came back from Pergam (fond name for my parents' place), got Rushda in bed, wiped and changed her. Dear watched tv, I was surfing - both in the living room. Unexpectedly, I heard Rushda crying tersedu-sedu WITH an unusual sound. I turned to the TV, and to my laptop, and was certain the sound is not from there. Told Dear to check on Rushda. He got up, stand at the door, turned to me , "Nothing lah, Rushda is sleeping. Why? What is it?"

I turned back to my laptop, and there, that sound came around again. That's it. I got up to take my wudhu'. I asked Dear to stand guard at the door. Lights on. I just got the feeling that I need to be with Rushda. I went back to the room, and as I wanted to reach to her, I felt..... I was competing with something to reach to her. I felt like I collided with something. As quickly as I can, I hugged Rushda. She started to cry and pointed to something behind me.

I hugged her tight. My little one was perspiring despite the fan and the aircon on. At this point, I had goose-bumps and I started to cry. Takut punya pasal.

Dear was standing, somehow knew something was wrong. He brought the laptop in. Switched off the tv and everything else, and came into the room. I think he was scared too. Both of us remained calm, and tried to divert away by surfing the Net, and while doing that, we had qori Syed AbdurRashid AzZarqawi's quran recitation played on the laptop, and eventually lullabied me to sleep.

I told Ayah about it. He gave me advices like, recite surah Yaasin 3 times after maghrib; recite doas before you step into the house and so on.

Why am I vulnerable to this now?

Dadha & Erni Day Out

2007-02-11T12:54:00.000+08:00

5th February 2007

It's a Monday- we applied for leave. We dont want to work. We have planned this many many days back. Originally, wanted to spend the day at JB with Blossom's study-mates. Apparently,it turned out, just us. So... No JB.

I took a cab down to Arab Street instead, and got myself 3 scarves and a blouse.

Then, we met- Dadha & Erni: 2 quirky, "last-minutes" professional working wives and mums, married to the boys of Abdul Ghaffar.

Anyway...

Here are the chronological events that took place, that eventful Monday, 5th February 2007.

FIRST, Kak Erni brought me to this little cozy mini eatery just at the corner of Arab Street, facing The Concourse. Forgot the name of the shop.

She had Mee Soup, I had... KARI AYAM (chicken curry) SERVED WITH ROTI (bread).

Punya lah BEST, terhantuk-benjol. I was excited, and when I do, I tend to let out this train-steams sound effects involuntarily, which reminded Kak Erni of her Japanese colleagues. She imitated these exaggerating sounds Japanese would make when they see something new or delightful. (i.e: Watch Japan Hour). Should've catch it in camera. Its unforgettable.

SECOND, For Zohor, we went to Masjid Sultan. Alhamdulillah, on that day, I had the opportunity to join the jemaah to perform SOLAT JENAZAH. May she be blessed with peace and rahmat.

My next task- understanding and finding out cara-cara mendirikan solat Jenazah.

THIRD, on the way back to the car, we were snapping us away... alot of funny ones, ; some of them:

FOURTH, Kak Erni bought a basket for Blossmobile.

FIFTH, I suggested Plaza Singapura with only a plan in mind- to visit Made WIth Love, and entice her with the beautiful stuffs there. Coincidentally, there was a class, to start at 2.30pm. Managed to convince her, at the very very last minute, to join that scrapbooking class. Erni agreed!

(Perhaps, cant be bothered with my whining)...

Anyway, we made this special album, supposedly for our coming wedding anniversary. Mine happens to be tomorrow, 6th Feb 07. I was happy that Kak Erni agreed to participate. Sista, I really hope you sincerely enjoy the class, not forced to (but then again, Kak Erni macam no choice, I was begging, "U want? U dont want takpe, tapi kenapa? Want ah")

SIXTH, we had dinner at Secret Recipe.

SEVENTH, I went home happy.

Today's de-stressing day... Halal! Wondering when will the next one be. =)

Her teacher's note to me

2007-01-28T09:27:00.000+08:00

"Dear Mdm Raudha,

Rushda enjoyed the story "What do you like?" today. When I asked her what did she likes, she replied, "Books". :) "

Alhamdulillah... I dont mind spending money on books. Reading is everything. Iqra' - Read!

The one with.........Again?!?!?!

2007-01-20T09:54:00.000+08:00

Again!!!!!!???? Not again. But then again, it has happened, and might happen yet again. Eh, sounds like a riddle. Okaylah, try if you like; make some guesses whats the "Again" there... I'm talking about...

Again! Has not been consistently updating the blog? Actually I did, on New Year's Day. After typing a chapter on Hari Raya Haji, etc, complete with gambar kambing and links, it went....*_ _ _ _* missing!
Again! Procrastinating at work now, when I have just made a list of to-dos. But then eh, it has been quite awhile since I procrastinate. Tau takpe.
Again! Been hurt by a best friend. Does he know I'm hurt? Yes. Did he ask? No.
Again! Wanted to buy some stuffs, but ended up buying stuffs I dont want.
Again! Sakit perut.
Again! I had unusual dreams. Was telling Shikin about hugging a fat round pillar at a carpark, because there was a lion. Yesterday's dream, was about me giving birth to triplets - two boys and a girl.
Again! I need the loo now.
Again! I'm SURE... after formatting this post swee-swee, cantik-canti, it will turn out the way I see it NOT. No spaces between point 1 to this point. Betul kan?

The One with Mummy

2006-12-31T15:05:00.000+08:00

Whoa... once again, lagging. Nevertheless, I'm BaaaaaaCK! Wish to bid goodbye to 2006. The reason I have been away from Blogspot... Dearest Mummy.... long story. I dont know where to start... Here are the events in chronological order: 8 Nov 06 - Diagnosed mild stroke. Sent to hospital by Ayah. Symptoms: slur speech, and slow response. 14 Nov- Discharge from CGH. 22 Nov- Rushed to CGH. Breathing difficulty. Admitted to ICU. Diagnosed Pneumonia. 28 Nov- Discharged from CGH. 1 Dec - Rushed to CGH again. Breathing difficulty again. Admitted to ICU. Diagnosed Mild Heart Attack. 9 Dec - Referred to SGH Renal Ward. 12 Dec - Discharged. 18 Dec - Rushed to SGH. Breathing difficulty. Diagnosed: Kidney failure. Heamodialysis required. 23 Dec - Discharged. Recovering and getting well each day... Ooops, the tears are coming... will write again later...

Thank you Allah for...

2006-11-21T07:47:00.000+08:00

... bringing hubbiest Dear back home safely. Hope the Hot Milo I made helped to keep you warm after the long cold journey. What a blissful morning, despite the back-pain I'm having now. At current, I have 6 koyoks on my back. I'm surprised, not so ooomph this time. This pain is prompting me to visit any OSIM outlets to try out their gedabak massage chair... I thank Allah for having such wonderful superb parents. Ayah just dropped by, sending breakfast and today's Straits Times. He must be running late, otherwise he would water the plants too. Oh, just now he went to check the mailbox... I wanna sleep in awhile more. Work starts at 10 today. what to wear? What to wear? ~~~~

The One with November Rain

2006-11-17T19:11:00.000+08:00

Once again, I have to ask this: How many people out there are consistent and disciplined? You there, are you consistent and disciplined? In which area do you score the most? Aren't you ashamed about not being consistent? Well, I do! What made me thought about it was the fact that - I didnt blog for about a whole of a month now. Not that it is COMPULSORY. Not that i'm answerable to a higher authority, STILL, its a matter of consistency and disciplined. You will then be respected. Geeez, I just felt guilty. ----------------------------------------------------- The usual me, at this point, I will just update what I am experiencing or just experienced. 1. The DREAM I HAD LAST NIGHT

Last night's dream was really UNEXPECTED. I dreamt that Salman Khan and Sunjay Dutt were my working colleagues!?!?!?!?! Yes, MY working colleagues. There, in the dream, I was sitting on a low coffee table with the others, having our curriculum meeting, when suddenly both Salman and Sunjay came and sat next to me (with their meeting files!) They were shirt-less!! Thank heaven they were wearing pants. In the dream, I was shocked. I asked, "What are you doing here?" (feeling nervous) Salman answered, " Kenapa Raudha? Kita sama-sama kerja Learning Vision kan?" WHHHHHAAATTTTTTTT?????!!!!!! What nonsense... The dream continued, one of them, Salman I think, keep on resting his cheek on mine. I recalled having to move my head away, and I looked pissed. One of my real LV colleague appeared in the dream and said, "Let them be lah. Please stay focus in this meeting. And I heard Sunjay asking this, "Which class am I taking next year?" ... I must have been realllllly tired, that work anxiety is affecting me that I have nightmare, but why Sanjay and Salman? Beats me. 2. DEAR's MISSION THAILAND: Ride to Phuket 15th November 06 Dearest hubby is away on a mission in Thailand. He's been away since last Wednesday evening. From the joy of being left alone with Rushda, it has turned to the sorrow of missing him. Yet to shed a tear, but cried a bucket when I prayed to Him for Dear's safety. Feeling lah. Miss him so much, that I have forgiven his wrongdoings, that I planned to surprise him with a spick-n-span home, that I tell myself to treasure him and love him more. Its true what they said- "absence made the heart grows fonder".

I found one of our best couple pic. The night before Rushda was born. Makes me wanna try for No.2!

3. The graduation concert was GRAND! - 12th November 06

Finally, after all the hard work we have put in, it pays off. My students did well in their stage play of The Swordfish Story aka S'pura Dilanggar Todak. With all the last-minute cluster rehearsals, full-dress rehearsals, centre rehearsals, I have one word to say: HALAL!

The cast of S'pura Dilanggar Todak... Thats Khairina and her "pink" Sultan's dayangs, and that is Mariati and her "yellow" laundrettes. Funny that, after everything is over, I miss the hard times we had together. Another highlight of the day was...

Meeting Aries and Tini - fellow bloggers and survivors of LV.

4. Mummy Mild Stroke 8th November 06/ Ayah & his brand-new Edix

Mummy had mild stroke again, this time more severe, nevertheless, she is optimistic and fight to get back on her two feet and to go back to her kitchen to see the senduk and periuk.

I have been telling myself to be strong and brace what lies ahead. The doc has updated us about Mummy's condition, and this time round, I wished to foot the medical bill, and I did just that. Alhamdulillah, my Medisave helps.

At the same time, ayah just got us a brand-new pearl-white Honda Edix. 6-seaters. I drove... Best. While Dear's Haya plate is AF 242, Ayah's car is SGN 545. Cool numbers! Cannot tikam one. Short of a digit.

5. Reunion with ol' schoolmates

Suryati, Rosdiana, Leila and me.

1. Yati just had her second boy. 2. Diana is expecting (7wks). 3. Leila just came back from Manchester.

Candid-moment, all three of them owns an Olympus camera, but NONE knows how to find/use the timer function on their camera. Pekak badak lah. Lucky thing I'm a natural fast-learner (ahem ahem), I assisted them while they just sit pretty.

Okay, time to solat maghrib. This, we must be consistent!

1 Syawal 1427H - Hari Raya Aidilfitri...

2006-10-25T08:13:00.000+08:00

Berlalu lah sudah Ramadhan Sebulan berpuasa Tiba Syawal kita raya kan Dengan rasa gembira
Selamat Hari Raya to all, maaf zahir dan batin. Here are some quick facts and snapshots of first day. 1) Rushda refused to put on the gorgeous pink shantung baju kurung specially designed by Uncle Haron. "Less is more. Diaper and bib is good enuff for me." No one can convince Rushda to wear anything.

2) Abang Ridzwan & family (10.23am) , were the first to arrive. Close at second place, was us (10.25am) , and last in the family to come were the Sengkangs. I mean, The Toeys (11.30am!)

3) This year, new addition to the family, joined us for Hari Raya - Siti Safura Ridzwan.

4) Dearest Sister-In-Law, Erni aka Blossom, and myself got ourself a two-piece suit designed and tailored exclusively from Haron.

5) This is the BEST family photo I took... Sigh, gotta try harder today. Rushda? Thats her, sleeping on mum's bed.

Sooooooo Tired... Gotta go for more visitings today.

Bring it On, Baby!

2006-10-22T05:27:00.000+08:00

"I think it boils down to time management, u bring home a lot of your sch work. Then u are pressurised to complete n @ same time, do housework. U have to sacrifice something"

That was an SMS advice I got about two weeks ago. If it was verbal plus real-time, I would have reacted negatively. If I could remember clearly, I did reply defensively. I wasn't too keen to pursue a discussion with my fingers manouvering with madness on the keypads, and with my students around asking me questions. Very annoying and concentration denied.

Two weeks gone, and today, after giving it lots and lots of thoughts, I can't deny but agree that the statement is true and it needed an action plan immediately.

"If only u can separate sch work n try not to bring it home, i'm sure u hv time to rest @ home."

If only... I rattled on saying that I need more moral support and i was tired and was listing down the things I have to do during my, konon, "rest time" - taking care of husband's and child's needs; complete chores like (do I have to mention???) Cinderella do.

At least, SHE concentrates just on chores. Me? I was juggling, man. Like The Great Jojo the Juggler from one of the children's storybooks I've read.

I was at my lowest point then. At work, I wasnt spared either. Lady Marmalade has been giving me a hard time. With prodigies who happens to be "efficient" and "consistent", she highlighted those, time and again during staff meetings. At and around the same time in-between meetings, tasks are given to me continuously as I am the "senior" person at work.

Emotionally, I had to deal with:

1. The SMS comments, which to me was like a slap on the face. A wake-up call from someone who usually reserves such comments.

2. Lady Marmalade's strategy- "Pukul anak, sindir menantu" kind.

She praises the new girl till cloud 9. She praises the other one for consistency, etc. Last Thursday's meeting, she announced: "There are 5 recipients for the top 20% performers in our centre, but one is awarded the STAR award, and she is......... ain't me. Never mind that, I was the STAR teacher in 2004. On that meeting, everyone gets a $50 QIM for best lesson plan; best classroom environment; most consistent; best innovation - class website; etc etc; except for, myself and two new girls.

I know about Best Lesson Plan and Best Classroom Env awards, but Most Consistent? Most Effective? Best Innovation? I know nuts.

To rub it in further, she Cc-ed to ME - a copy of her email to our Ops Mgr about the new girl's peformance, and whats her % in salary adjustment after 6-mths working.

What was THAT all about??? I have yet to acknowledge her email. I mean, what... "Noted with thanks"????

I know why she started this personal attack(s) on me. Yes I do.

It must be the PRIVATE confrontation I had with her, for embarrassing me with her remarks in front of a parent. She just slurred out answers, just to please the parent, WITHOUT doing some thinking.

For that one, she was even trying to come out with non-sense rebutts, trying to prove herself as NOT GUILTY. Alhamdulillah , I was strong emotionally, my memory was intact, and I continued to correct her as she tried to escape moving backwards on her butts and hands.

Eventually, the truth prevails - she went against her policy of "Walk with me. Stand up for your friends". She apologized - "Ma'af" she said.

Honestly, I felt good that she finally admit. Its not easy to get Lady Marmalade to APOLOGIZE.

I want to thank my husband for those slap-on-the-face SMSes.

Dear, I thought it was over between us - the give & take part.

After thinking and thinking and crying and thinking and crying....

your words were the cure!! It wasnt easy to switch off from work when I'm home, waiting for you to ask me "Whats wrong?" so that I can cry and tell you my problem.

Then, the plot had a twist. I thought that was your dialogue, rupanya editted. U made my character a helpless damsel. Hrrrffff....

I apologized for being such an ass-wife. I should learn from your forgive-and-forget attitude.

With all the pies on my face earlier this Ramadhan, I have learnt to wipe it off gracefully and take it with a pinch of humour. Thanks. You are so right - Men, they have to be told what to do.

As for Lady Marmalade, I say she was being bitchy. But another friend said, "no. more like anal kind". Ouch.

A Night Of Power by MY uncle Kamal!!!

2006-10-21T06:16:00.000+08:00

This is the poem I've been wanting to post since early Ramadhan. Im just so proud of my young (and single) uncle K., producing such beautiful poem. May Allah grant you a wife SOON. As it is, Rushda is considered your cucu, oi!! Cepat kahwin! Read out the poem aloud... it makes a LOT of difference.

The Night of Power by Kamal Ishnin Every day and month each day of the year

Peace to you my dear brothers and sisters

Ramadan comes close let us not falter

Remembering Allah and his prophet is all that matters

For we muslims are so blessed in life and in love

How can one not be when constantly showered from above

A month full of blessings and the 'Night of power'

A night so special unlike any other

Where angels line the stairs of heaven

In praise of Allah they line in procession

A night equivalent to a thousand nights

Bestowed to man by Allah in his might

This special month, a bit different than the rest

A time to behave and be at your best

Recite more Quran and read less of others

Sing praises of Allah Lets Sing it Together

For truth and knowledge is contained in Quran

Not in one surah but in each and everyone

Let us practise restraint and kindness each day

And practise the Prophets teachings in the true Muslim way

Love and Courage stand side by side

Islam is truth with nothing to hide

Equality and peace throughout the divide

So lets welcome our prophet with hands open wide

Should the prophet come visit you one of these days

So blessed will you be to look upon his face

Should the prophet come visit you one of these days

Do give him my love and guide him my way

Nothing in my mailbox :(

2006-10-13T05:51:00.000+08:00

We are halfway through before Eid, and no KAD RAYA in my mailbox. LAGU RAYA has been playing on the radio and still no sight of KAD RAYA from any friends. :( Post-Internet days, by now, I would have received at least 10 cards. I treasure every single one of them. The anticipation of seeing an envelope with my name written (not printed - itu phone bills, insurance, etc) is that of a 6-yrs-olds getting Roald Dahl book as a gift. The last card I received was Raya 2003. It was from a special friend. He doesnt look the sort who will post kad raya, I was shocked to receive one from him. What an honour. In the card, he uses his name, instead of omitting it with 'I'. The message was HANDWRITTEN. "xxxxx mohon ampun dan maaf sekiranya xxxxx selama ini ada terkasar bahasa......" And we are mutual friends, and met less than 5 times. Maybe he likes me. Well, it shall remain unknown. Hahahhaha... Even if its true, I was madly in love with my then-fiance who is my now-husband, WHOM have never sent me a KAD RAYA. Another friend who never failed to post me cards is my Alsagoff's mate, Faridah. Now, she is an examplary friend. Since that last day we all parted in 94, I have been receiving consistently from her, every year. Maybe hers will arrive next week. I cant wait. Yippeedee! *clutching hands together* Perhaps, I should just place my address here. Who knows, some ol' friends would just be bloghopping and came here. Dear Friends, Hi. Just to be sure you have my address :)

Raudha Robu

Blk 757, Pasir Ris St 71

#01-164

Singapore 510757

Mummy~~~ I'm tired!!!

2006-10-01T22:58:00.000+08:00

EXHAUSTED...........

TIRED...............

PENAT.........................

No other words can describe how lethargic I am. Ya Allah, please give me the STRENGTH of a good (if not goof) WIFE, a good MUM, a good DAUGHTER and a good TEACHER. Insya-Allah... For those who happened to dropped by this post, Amen to my prayers, please.

Ramadhan Well-Wishes SMS & Email

2006-09-24T10:56:00.000+08:00

Marhaban, Yaa Ramadhan

"O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed upon those before you in order that you may attain taqwaa."Surah al-Baqarah 2:183

Okay, quick facts. 1. Dear was enthusiastic about waking up early for Sahuur. Set mine and his alarm at 4.30am. One alarm beep, and he is up. That's the spirit, Dear. Do it everyday, please. The food: Meatball kicap from Mummy; Fried Vege from Mak; and one Sunny Side Up for dear. Eat eat eat; clean clean clean....ZzzzzZZZ... wake up again for Subuh....Zzzz again. Now, Dear out to work; Rushda out to see Mummy cooking bubur at Kassim Mosque. 2. I received no less than 15 sms & email about welcoming Ramadhan. There were hadiths, poems, a joke and tips shared. All the more semangat to do the ibadah of fasting. The joke I got via sms was ok, funny... but I wonder if one should be forwarding here and there. It goes like this: "Doa Tahan Puasa- Allahumma baringsana baringsini- wa sudahlapar wamaumati- walihatjam masihlama lagi- takda caralagi- wakena baring lagi - sampai senjananti." The ending note 'just for a smile'. Hmmmm, its funny, but its making FUN of doas which are aunthentic words to reach to Allah. Allahu'a alam. Furthermore, I learned that it is discouraged to write doa Romanised as it may cause misconception in the meaning. Na'uzubillah. I'm proud of the poem The Night of Power written by my very one and only uncle, Kamal. Its in my email account at work. Will definitely share it here. 3. Last night, I decided that its time to wean Rushda of breastmilk.

I did the traditional rub-lemon-juice-on-both-breasts. I felt so wrong doing that, I continued to doa, asking for blessings and help. Now, with the stingy feel on the nips, I was waiting for Rushda to ask. I kissed her, cuddled her and explained to her that it is time to move on. I apologised to her. All that time, she gazed me in the eyes and kept nodding. As if. Next, Rushda released. She beckoned to me her mouth; 'it's sourish, Ummi'. I cried a bucket. Last night, Rushda fell asleep on her own. :( I am so sorry sayang. Ummi still loves you.

Rushda 2mths old. Took this photo to submit for World Breastfeeding Week.

4) Today is Chu's birthday. She is 40, and I got something special from Far East Flora to be delivered to her; Kak Erni sent me a song file- It's M Nasir's song titled Bahtera Raudah, presented as birthday song (konon). Thank you , sis.

5) Tonight S'pore Idol. Are you (yes you, not me) watching or going for terawih???????

Alive and Kickin'

2006-09-17T10:28:00.000+08:00

Hmmmmm... it has been OVER a month here. I have successfully put my priorities straight. I have been able to do the wajibs and sunnats, and leave out the makruhs, hypothetically speaking. Like updating this blog- at a point, I asked myself, whats my objective of having this blog again? Oh right, to keep in touch with friends out there. And when this blog went silent for a month, no one asked. AHAH! So blogging slides down to number 10 in this month's Top of The Chart. So like what for wajibs and sunnats? The usual things mothers i.e no maid-and-working kind of mum: prepare kid's stuffs to school; clean the house; complete datelines at work; scrub it all out, for the policy of NO DUST NO STAIN NO CLUTTER is the policy we adhere to at work nowadays; prepare teaching aids way in advance. Updating the class' website. Now this one is 'sunnat'. The parents look forward to view the latest pics of their kids in actions. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Okay, so what to look forward to, now that we are into the 4th quarter of 2006? 1. My Birthday, which is tomorrow. 2. Ramadhan! 3. Salary. 4. The birthday discount treats from Aussino, Times, etc (all that I have signed up for membership!) 5. Sabrina and Sharifah's babies. 6. My LP evaluations done *yawnnnn* 7. The opening of IKEA, which is so ooooo ohhh soooo near to me. 8. Dear's 3-Nation Ride trip. He promised to fund my scrapbooking classes. 9. Some reunions with old colleagues/schoolmates. 10. Hear more words from Rushda. She can now say: Bubbles; May (her teacher's name); Nenek and tetek *slap head*

Sleepy Sunday & I Love A.Y.A.H.

2006-08-06T13:08:00.000+08:00

Its 1.05pm.... I have yet to take my bath, brush my teeth, cook or do my work stuffs. Instead, I chose to check my mails and blog. Dear is at work. Rushda is at JP (Jalan Pergam); kidnapped by Ayah early in the morning. Today started off with Rushda, waking up at 5am, wanting her diapers to be changed. Next, she was actively looking at the colours chart and pointing to the pictures, wanting me to say out the names. I was sssooooo semi-conscious. I suggested something better, "Rushda, wanna watch Barney?" She headed straight to the living room, and take her position. I have no energy to breastfeed, so I made her formula mix. I got Barney to babysit, while I sleep next to her. I felt like it was just a minute, when she woke me up, beckoning to me the show is over. So FAST?!?!?!? I cajoled her to bed and feed her. Next, Dear kissed us goodbye. I told him I was sorry I couldnt get up. I was just toooo tired. Next, I heard the door alarm (beeped when open and closed). I couldnt open my eyes, but I know it has to be Ayah. True enough. He came to the room , at the same time, Rushda was waking up. Ayah bought her yet another sunglass. Okay, so here's what I really wanna blog about: My dad, my AYAH. I heard the usual clanking noises from the kitchen. Ok, maybe that's a signal for me to get up. He actually, bought us breakfast- soto and mee soto, and he took the trouble to empty the tapau food into the bowls. Then, he threw the garbage out, and then took wet-tissues and cleaned the cobwebs and dust on the doors and windows. Not only that, he ALSO watered the plants. He sat down to read the papers for about 10 minutes, then he brought Rushda to the loo and showered her. Ayah cued: "Rushda follow Tok, ok. We go jalan-jalan ok?" Rushda just nod her head. That noddy girl. So, off Rushda went with Tok. He told me, "you can do your work or take your nap. Later I'll send her back here". I'm such a lucky daughter to have a dad like him. Rushda is such a lucky girl who has a granddad who loves her every bits. Thank you Ayah, for always being there for me. Thank you Ayah, for your love, your understanding, your time. THANNNNK YOU!

Thursday With Raudha

2006-08-03T21:58:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulillah... Daaah Thursday. I can smell the fresh air of weekend. As if. Actually, its more of FireSan scent (!!!) coz Dear just gave me a good back massage with that magic ointment! I dont know what has got into me - I break fast at the newly-renovated Banquet of Parkway Parade today. We chope the table which was directly under the full-blast aircon. With a totally blocked nose, I slurped the Mee Pok Fishball Noodle without really savouring the taste. Its just the hot chilli padi with soy sauce occasionally. The chillis caught me, and so I was panting. So I guess, while I was holding on to the fiery padis, I may have gulped down the cool air thats coming down from the aircon , way too much. On the way back, I broke into cold sweat. You know, the 'anytime' one. "Dear, I need to go to the toilet urgently!" I said while the car has just reached level 2 before reaching the exit gantry. "Huh? You nak pergi toilet sini?!?!" and he continued to drive... And Rushda wants breastmilk. Alamak! It was so uncomfortable. I was sweating and praying. She was cooperative, she fell asleep very quickly and I laid her down on the seat. Once we reached home, I didnt even wait for Dear to stop the car infront of the house. At the junction of Senior Citizen Corner, I asked to alight. Did I make it on time???? Yessssss.... :) Still, Im having stomachache and blocked nose right now.

Nevertheless, I'm happy that Dear came to fetch me at work; we fetched Rushda; and Dear also accomodate to my request that we go visit my favourite boutique at Joo Chiat , just to buy a blouse and scarf to wear for tonight's iftar/dinner outing. The Anglia blouse and scarf bill was $88.00. Errrr, is this what they meant by impulsive?????? ===================================

Rejab is here. I took the opportunity to practise the sunnahs of fasting in Rejab. Besides that, most importantly, we women clear our hutangs and I also recommend that we start practising our fasting now, say, twice a week - Monday and Thursday, to prepare ourselves for Ramadhan (which is just two months away) just so, our body and mind will be more ready for the challenges then. Betul tak betul?

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I remembered back in March, I wrote an entry about setting a trend in birthday celebrations for my K2 class this year. Well, I am so damn right. I said that Ashley has set a trend - I am sure to see more mcDonald's birthday meals in school. To date, we have gone through FOUR Mc'Donald's catered birthday parties. One more coming up on Aug 14th. The peak was last week, 24th was Megan's, and the very next day was Darryl's. Miss Raudha gets a meal too. On Friday, being Ivy's last day of work, Lady Marmalade got me to buy 20 McDonald's milkshakes for the staff. I politely count myself out. Uh uh, no thanks.

Can you imagine how I feel at the sight of McDonald's????

Hello New York Pizza! (Halal ah)

Tag Time!

2006-07-14T14:50:00.000+08:00

Daaah Saturday. Alhamdulillah. The week has been a blissful one. As usual, list of things to be done remains just, a list. I've been tagged for the first time by a fellow LV blogger-buddy, Aries. Been reading others, and it has been, 'excited' or 'fun' to be tagged. Well lets see if I enjoy filling up the fields. Here it goes... Favourite Colour : Hard to single out a colour. It has been black; shades of blue and purple. Favourite Food : Depending on cravings. But it has consistently been Kacang Phool! Favourite Song : If I can pick 2 songs, they are: Bad Day by Daniel Powter (that closing song for American Idol) and one Alleycat song that goes, "Jika kau bercinta lagi..." Favourite Sport : Outdoor sports. Favourite Day of the Week : Saturday. I love saturdays! Even my working ones. Favourite Ice Cream Flavour : Swensen's Banana Crumble (served sizzling hot) Favourite Car Model : Vitara (sporty, playful, youthful - I love jeeps or their lookalikes). Favourite Subject in School :English Favourite Snacks : Anything with cheese; fruits. 9 Current.. Current Mood : amused, by my own antics. Was on the bike with Dear. Started to rain heavily, and was trying to protect by all means and ways my books and documents from getting wet. Current Taste : Simple yet chic Current Clothes : Thyme's black maternity top; 2-tones corduroy. Current Desktop : Window XP theme... Current Toenail Colour : no colours. Current Time : 2.33pm Current Surroundings : Living room, laptop, dark. Current Annoyance(s) : The fats on my upper arms and the post-natal excess too. Current Thoughts : My friend Aries; Tampines Mall and Dear doing laundry. 8 First(s).. First Best Friend : Ilyana from PPIS kindergarten. We have to part as her family moved to Brunei. Heard she was flying with SQ. First Crush :Michael Jackson.... (dont laugh). First Movie : Gremlins First Piercing : Primary 3. First Lie : When I was little, I told my friends I have a twin. First Music : Michael Jackson's Thriller album. First Car : First car I drove since I passed my Class 3 in 1997 was..... Mitsubishi SpaceWagon. First Real Date Venue : NYDC, Suntec City. 7 Last(s) Last Drink : Plain water. Last Car Ride : Yesterday. Went Parkway Parade with Dear and daughter. Last Movie : Tuesdays with Morrie @ NLB. I;m the only one who cried. Last Phone Call : to Dear - "Wanna fetch me?". Last Song Played : Hi-5 song. Last Food Ate : Tim Sum's dimsums. Last Thing I do before I go to sleep : recite doas and surahs; breastfeed Rushda; read - currently Loving Without Spoiling by Nancy Samalin. If there's a dispute between me and Dear, I'll read 5 Love Languages by Dr Gary Chapman. These two books are by the bed at all time.

6 Have You Ever(s) Have you ever dated one of your best friends : no.

Have you ever broken the law : maybe.

Have you ever been arrested : no.

Have you ever skinned dipped : In hotel privacy? yes.

Have you ever been on TV : Several times, but never get to see myself.

Have you ever kissed someone you didn't know : maybe. 5 Things You Are Wearing.

Hairband; my top; my pants; and 2 undergarments. 4 Things You've Done Today

Clean my classroom; Reorganize learning corners; Finish work on time; AND quality time with my ayah.

3 Things You Can Hear Right Now

Rain with thunder; Dear clearing his throat *sexy*; and Rockstart Supernova on Ch 18. 2 Things You Can't Live Without

Advices; Manuals.

1 Thing You Do When You Are Bored - READ. Eh.. really???? After going through the answers, I know myself better. Anyone can do this. But the list can be lenghty eh....

the One with American & Asian GHOSTS

2006-06-26T18:49:00.000+08:00

Today in class... Megan: Miss Raudha, my brother made me VERY VERY upset yesterday. Me: Oh Whats the matter? Megan: He called me a ghost. Ashley to Megan: Ghost is white. You are not white. Megan: I know. Alyssa interrupted: NOoooo!!! Ghost is green. Ash: But I thought ghosts are white? Alyssa: No, thats from America. (This caught my full attention. Then she continued...) Chinese ghosts are green. Ashley: Is it? Really> Alyssa with her eyes wide, looking at Ash confidently: Yesssss. The white ones are from America. The one from China are green ghosts. Me to Alyssa: If white ghosts are American, and the ones from China are green, what about Singaporean ghost? Alyssa answered seriously. confidently, without a second thought..... ................. ................ ................ "Any colour".

What's on my TV nowadays...

2006-06-21T21:10:00.000+08:00

I have a TV at home. In fact, two. The main one is placed in the most prominent place of the house- the living room. There's a mini version of the same brand- Ichiban, in my parent's room. But because Mummy is an ardent viewer of TV3, we were warned not to channel-surf as it may cause us to lose the channel's frequency. Yes, for TV3, we are at the mercy of wind-directions. That is because, to watch TV3, the service of an aerial is needed. So whenever Mummy comes to visit, I wouldn't want to be the one standing with the aerial next to the window where the neighbours can see me, trying to find the 'G-spot'. Once found, she warned us, "don't touch my TV3". So that is just like having ONE tv, right? ... I also have a good husband and an 18-months old adorable toddler. Whenever the TV is switched on, depending on the main viewer of the house, like it or not, you either see:

You know, its a good thing that I don't mind at all. Yes, seriously, I don't mind the football, and I don't mind watching the same Hi-5 series over and over AND over again. Don't I have a favourite programme? Not really.

[But I do love watching Oprah, Discovery Travel & Living and lately, Malcolm In The Middle (Star World)].

In fact, I'm as thrilled that World Cup is here. I'm not like other women who complained that the World Cup is causing their man to- not spend quality time, be ignorant, turning down dates, and blah blah. Be thankful that it happens only for a month, not to mention, once every four years. I do noticed that some matches start at 9pm. Baaagus. I get to be IN the house, do my things while Dear watch the match and minding Rushda at the same time. Hey, that's multi-tasking! For now, he is not complaining.

Hi-5 is in our living room before the starting of any match or when it's sleeping time in Germany or when THE MAN is sleeping or out for work. Then Rushda will be glued, and once again, I get to do my things. Either that, or I will join her in the dancing and singing.

At this point, although I am alone, with Dear at work, and Rushda with Andak, I should treat myself to the TV, right? No. I rather.... sleep. Tomorrow is a long day at Sentosa for LV staff training.

Auf Wiedersehen. Ich Liebe Dich.

Alsagoff Reunion - Class of '94.

2006-06-19T09:57:00.000+08:00

I was ecstatic to receive this sms from Faridah Johari: "A'kum teman2. I miss u all so much.I'm thinkin of having a reunion get-2-gether dlm waktu terdekat ni, maybe july. Whats ur opinion/suggestions?" 08:05. After 'discovering' Sarena and Salinnah in Multiply, and after knowing that most of us are mothers... we should! I've been the long-lost one. But I remember my school-mates dearly. How can I not? Most of us grew up together from P1. One of them is my cousin, Habibah. In fact, Habibah and me started off from PPIS kindergarten. Never been apart since then. Oddly, we never were best of friends. But close though. She is the brainy one. Faridah was the Math Queen. The 78s were: Myself, Habibah, Rosdiana, Faridah, Noreny, Nurussiyam, Mahfudzah, Mazraah The slightly older ones were: Siti Khadijah, Dewi Rahayu, Siti Lailah, Sarena, Salinnah, Nurulhuda. I know there were two more. *30minutes have passed, and Im still thinking* Okay, hope they will agree to it. Need to catch up with the married ones, and the swinging singles.

The One with Shark and Maggots and Hadi

2006-06-16T13:04:00.000+08:00

I had the WEIRDEST dream last Wednesday night. I dont have any recollection of recent dreams. I dream about it, but it will poof off once Im awake and I will forget all about it. But not this time, I was awaken by it, and told Dear about it right away, at 3 am in the morning. Okay, here how it goes: This dream involves Hadi (Dear's nephew), me and a baby of a Great White Shark. Me: Hadi, pernah tengok shark? H: Pernah (nodding his head). Me: Hadi pernah makan shark? H: Makan?!?! (big eyes) Me: Nak try? H: Nak! (excited) Next scene, we were at a kitchen/restaurant; looked like a japanese sushi outlet. Me: Hadi tengok eh. Suddenly, there was a baby shark slammed on the table, fierce snout facing us. Terkejut. We were seated like customers waiting for our sushi and teppanyaki. The shark was placed on a table slightly higher than us. Then, with one great chop, the shark was sliced like a loaf of bread. Its head fell off the table and dropped on Hadi's foot. Next scene, I saw the sole of Hadi's foot red with blisters and like bubbles bursting.... and holey cheese, there were something alive moving inside! Me: Hadi, kenapa dengan kaki Hadi? H: Oh oh....mmmmm....maggots. (While examining his own foot). LO AND BEHOLD.... maggots popped outs. Hundreds of it. Then, two more familar faces came to the picture. Kak Erni (Hadi's mum): I think we need to bring him to the hospital. By now, Abang Uda (Hadi's dad) was also examining and looked verrry very crossed. Me: Sorry eh. I nak ajak Hadi makan shark, tak sangka dia jadi gini. Abang Uda: YOU MEAN YOU DONT KNOW? He is ALLERGIC TO SHARK! End of dream. And by the end of this post, I am laughing uncontrollably. Didnt had a chance to share it with Kak Erni. Oh well, she will know when she reads this post. Hope they have a smooth journey to Port Dickson. :)

<---- That's Hadi.

2006-06-12T17:46:00.000+08:00

06.06.06 1. Mummy & Ayah's Anniversary. Its their 36th. 2. Tok (Haji Abdul Hamid Bin Haron) passed away on this day back in 1986. I was 8 years old. The first time I was present to witness a funeral. Though playful and oblivious of the event, I remembered those who attended said: "Alhamdulillah eh, jenazah meninggal malam 7 lekor..." and "kalau tak silap, semalam malam lailatul-qadar lah"... sounds good enough for me. My Tok is protected and in 'good hands'. 07.06.06 I left work at 7.30pm. A kid was not picked up, due to miscommunication between Ah Kong and Ah Ma. That poor chilld. And the grandparents...must have been blaming each other. 08.06.06 To Pasir Ris Library, then to Swensen's for Apple Crumble. Dear joined me. Couple moment. 09.06.06 Went to the hospital to visit Nek Chu, who is in 4th stage of colon cancer. We were told that the cancer has spread to her liver. Another story of 'it-happened-so-fast'. Will be visiting her again. 10.06.06 Work then house chores then attend Sofie's birthday party then home, then no channel 27. Dear is a terror on the road. Isshh. 11.06.06 Rushda down with fever. At home, nursing her. Everything else has to wait. 12.06.06 6.00pm - Go home lah. Rest.