Java Joy Plus One

New Address

2011-04-02T21:33:00.002+08:00

leftyleftover.wordpress.com

I have moved, because:
1. Blogspot doesn't allow easy blogging from my smartphone
2. I still love writing
3. I don't like airing thoughts on facebook
4. I miss blogging!

See you there if I see you.

Goodbye everyone. I have moved to another website.

2011-03-25T22:54:00.000+08:00

Wow

2011-03-16T18:10:00.000+08:00

I haven't been here for a long time.

Does it count that I blog in my head everyday?

Horrified

2010-12-26T13:28:00.001+08:00

...he can unlock my phone now.

How fast they learn.

That Thing Called Love

2010-12-01T16:55:00.003+08:00

Know the feeling when you get butterflies in your stomach when you meet the guy of your dreams?

The high you get when you finally say, 'I'm getting married!' one day,

The thril of doing something good and fun and new,

The scared and excited feeling when you sit for the last ever exam paper,

The smile on your face that radiates from your heart when someone does something truly sweet for you,

The overflowing joy in your heart when life is good and the sun is shining,

All of the above times infinity.

A mother's love.

Neverending!

Wants and Needs

2010-11-28T21:24:00.002+08:00

Whenever I have a conversation about kids it's usually about their whiny-ness.

It doesn't always start off that way, but it kinda ends up talking about how much 'suffering' it takes the parent to bring up a little child.

So I went on a quest to equip myself better on this topic, since it seems to get to just about anybody- from children themselves to single people, childless couples, and couples with kids.

And here's what I found.

Children/babies/everyone are born as nothingness. There is really nothing in a baby's mind, take it as a blank, empty sheet. (This is why babies cry. Because they have nothing and come with nothing, everything seems scary).

And then we have parents. And this is what parents are for- to fill up the empty spaces and pages in a child's heart and mind with love and guidance, and hopefully happy, fulfilling memories.

Babies can't talk, or at least they can't verbalize their needs in a language we understand.

So they end up making irritating noises.

Some believe they were designed to irritate the parent because it actually acts as a way to grab the parent's attention. Imagine if everyone was ok with whining. Needs will not be met, because how would you know if a baby was hungry if it didn't cry? Or how would you know the right way to guide a child that throws unacceptable tantrums if they didn't do so in the first place? How would you show a child to distinguish between right and wrong behaviour if they didn't misbehave in the first place?

There is always a reason a child whines and cries. There is always a need to be met, if all needs are met you have a happy, fulfilled child who can be on their own for a little while. But the world is a scary place, imagine having never seen something and suddenly it all comes on you at once. Like as if someone took you from where you are at the very moment and placed you in a whole new country, with a different language, culture, and way of life. A clingy child is an insecure child, there are some emotional needs that have not been met, either for the day, or for the week, or never have been. And I think this because all babies are whiny in one way or another, and it is nearly impossible to meet all their needs all the time. (phew, gimme a break!)

Put an adult in that position and you'd know what I mean. Imagine if all your needs were met. You feel loved, have someone to talk to, something to love, something to entertain you, and your stomach is happy, you will at least feel a little satisfied. Or if you have an understanding parent who spends a lot of quality time with you, constantly telling you how much you've grown and how they are so proud of what you've achieved. An encouraging dad, a mother who gives lots of hugs and listens when you need her to. Now won't you feel happy and loved?

The same goes with babies, they're human too!

The main difference being children need to be guided with much care as the empty pages of their lives fill up with memories, different emotions, like love, joy, grief, sadness. Yes, it includes sadness and bad memories.

A child needs to be taught how to experience bad memories and how to grieve. For example, someone fell from the stairs when they were learning to walk. Mom leaves the child to cry as she believes this would make the child stronger and more independent. In the short term it seemed so but as the child grew up, he became terrified of heights. This fear of heights turned into something so severe it interfered with his social life, and so on and so forth. This is a child that has not been taught how to handle negative emotions. On the other hand, a child who loves dogs and got bitten badly by a big dog, carefully consoled and situation explained may probably grow up to continue her love for dogs- knowing that one bite from one particular dog does not mean all dogs will bite her.

Having said that, I believe the way a child is brought up also depends on his/her personality. God is fair, so he only gives us personalities of our kids that are of ours and our partners. Hooray! (not!) Hard enough to tolerate each other, right? :P Some children need more care and guidance, some need more time spent and some are just born naturally 'independent'. However a personality of a child should never stand in the way of discipline and loving guidance.

Parenting is complex...I never expected it to be this complex.

It's not about how much you 'suffer' for a few years and then it will be over, as I've heard too many times, but it's a lifetime of love, care, guidance and discipline. The first four years of a child's life builds the foundations for the rest of their lives, the rest of the years just add to the experiences that shape them into the person they would be when they grow up.

Having read all this from various resources, I tell myself to work harder and be more loving.

I hope it will pay off one day, every mother only tries her best and wants the best for her babies.

My quest to find out more continues...the complexity of relationships is baffling.

LTNS!

2010-11-13T09:36:00.004+08:00

Hello everybody!

Yeap...long time no update!

Been totally busy with family and homestuff, it's been great!

There's so much to type I have run out of ideas.

I'm in love with silicone products at the moment. Not breast fillers or anything like that, but kitchen products.

So much that I've replaced ALL cooking utensils with silicone ones!

Here's my fav- the spatula spoon. I use it for frying, mixing, baking- just about anything and everything! It's marvelous, heat resistant and comes in different colours. It looks as good as the day I bought it though I've had it for almost a year now.

Goodbye wooden spoons and ladels.

I'm waiting for the soup ladel to be released (I haven't seen one so far).

And gone are the days of washing oven mitts!

Next step is to upgrade my poor little can opener and the garlic press that saps all the energy out of me.

But not so soon. They still work, just that they require more care and time to use, which I have been having less of these days...and it will slowly decrease even more.

So from hating cooking to loving it and appreciating good kitchen products I think I am now 100% domesticated.

And happy.

I Look to You

2010-10-23T21:18:00.001+08:00

I love music. And I absolutely love singing.

But I haven't had much time to actually critically listen to music these days.

Here's one that really touches me, I had to listen to it over and over again, it's that powerful.

One day I wish I could sing this too.

Well...I'm no diva so it may be a long time coming...

Who do you look to?

I Wonder

2010-10-01T20:45:00.002+08:00

Sometimes I wonder if everyone has a conscience.

Or how some people live without one, a hazy one, or a completely shattered conscience.

I was watching Dr Phil today and it was about (probably a replay) neighbour disputes between two ladies. One who was a corrections officer (obviously lost her job after this) kidnapped the neighbour's cute dog and dropped it of 15miles away. Yet she says she was the victim as her neighbour had intentionally trained the dog to bark at her and pee on her new lamp post, though the neighbour with the dog had actually set up an electric fence between their houses just to prevent her dog from going over. That was only part of the story, but it was obvious which one had a clear conscience.

And how do you live without a clear conscience anyway?

Don't you have niggling thoughts, the 'good' and 'bad' voice in your head, the tendency to want peace and quiet up there?

What about the things you do to other people?

The wars you unknowingly created?

The hate games you played and thought you were the victim?

I don't understand these people.

And I wish I didn't know any.

Pregnancy Taboo

2010-09-28T15:25:00.002+08:00

I was at a friend's wedding the other day.

Met the most gorgeous girl, she's with twins at 17weeks now.

So we got talking.

Found out we have similar experiences with our first pregnancies, only she has double of what I had.

We both craved beer and watermelon. We both had no idea what to expect. And we both were the first in our group of friends to get pregnant. And we both felt deceived of what we had known about pregnancy up to the time we experienced it ourselves.

Most of all, we both felt lonely.

She said that as if it was like taboo and no one seems to share about their sufferings during pregnancy. I totally agree. It kinda makes you feel like a bad mother to be.

Some people don't connect with the baby in them. There's no obvious love, it's a constant suffering especially when they have no energy and are throwing up and can't go out anywhere.

I didn't fall in love with my baby at the first instant. But I love him to bits now. When he first came out the subconscious couldn't deliver, and it wasn't all rosy and pretty like what is described by most people you ask.

I suffered immensely during the pregnancy, and thought to myself "I'll never do this again," But now I think otherwise.

Some say you gotta be thankful for being able to be pregnant and just swallow the negative thoughts. But I think every woman is different, every pregnancy is different. You can't be like everyone else sometimes.

It's ok to be you, and to feel how you feel. That's a start. Accepting your feelings, acknowledge you own them and take it slowly from there.

God bless all the mothers.

Person of Few Words

2010-09-07T20:04:00.002+08:00

I have read a few books on relationships and gender differences.

One understanding I have come to achieve is that men have a speech quota. Well, if not most all men have at least some sort of quota. And it works for the better.

I am not a man, but I don't like talking too much. I think that if something needs to be said, it has to be said properly, with meaning and without beating around the bush because I shouldn't have anything to hide. This is a bit idealistic though. Towards the end of each day my words lessen and so does my brain function these days. But having a baby- it changes. You have to be fun and lively up until an hour before their bedtime. Singing, dancing, praising, encouraging, guiding, and being silly.

So I was having lunch with the in laws and their friend, a very lively, lovely burly man.

The lunch experience would have been excruciatingly terrible if not for this funny man.

Baby was irritable from the 3 jabs he had earlier in the morning, and it didn't help when the waitress told us we had to wait half an hour. In the end, we had to wait 60 minutes and poor baby couldn't sit still anymore, insisted grandad carry him around the whole place and outside.

Family friend: Whoahhh this grandad so devoted one ah, can carry the baby the whole time!

Me: Yeah, no choice. *smiles

Family friend: Eh you very lucky you know! ( doesn't know what else to say at this point)

MIL: oh..er I think he likes it also lah.

Me: ??? (huhh??)

And I only just realised what my 3 words could have meant instead of what I intended them to mean!

It could have meant I have no choice but to have such a FIL looking after my baby, therefore Ff said what he did above and why MIL seemed to be defending FIL.

But what I really meant was FIL had no choice but to carry Baby around the whole hour while waiting for our food because Baby had demanded him to do so. And agreeing with Ff that he is indeed a wonderful grandad.

Oopsies!! Or maybe I am thinking too much because this brain is all jumbled up. Lego, poo, potty, nappy, pharmacy...oh whateva!

So sometimes, I think it's better to stick to being talkative. But I really don't have the energy to do so.

Another lesson I have learnt from this is, before you choose to get offended or shocked by what someone of little words has to say, think about what they may have really meant when they said what they did at the time.

Make sense?

Busy.

2010-09-03T20:22:00.002+08:00

Busy
That's the theme of my life at the moment. Just. Busy.
And the busyness isn't going to go away, in fact it's going to increase! *gasp*

Love
I love my friends, it's difficult to describe. Love is not a feeling, it is a choice, an action, a prayer.

Tired
Is me everyday. Thanks to waking up at 5am or before, carrying 12kgs of human almost half the day, and trying to do more than 2 things at once or nothing will get done.

Wishing
I wish I had more time. To smell the roses, to blog, to upload photos, to strengthen relationships, to care for others, and to pray. But I know I need to make time for all that. Suddenly it ain't all that easy.

Ministry
Motherhood is a ministry. What better way to live in God's light than to bring up a child in his promises. Amen! It's a tough one though.

Knowing
I know when someone's lying, there's a hidden agenda, or they're flirting. Or if they're sincere, have a heart of gold or are highly intelligent. Hmm...!

New
Along the way I have discovered a lot of things about myself. I have never liked to talk about me or think about me, but a lot of situations have changed that. I am not perfect and cannot be perfect.

Full
Is how to live your life. It's short, it's tainted, it's full of challenges. The beauty of it is that God is the center of it all. And we have the full assurance that one day we will meet Him. I believe.

Make Way

2010-08-20T22:25:00.002+08:00

These past few days have been exhausting.

On top of being down with one of the worst colds I've ever had and nursing an irritable but recovering baby, we have been moving furniture around in the house. It feels like we've just moved to another house!

So goodbye to the TV in the living room. There are more important things in life than watching TV, so the precious space is going to be occupied by things that really matter.

Now to cancel Foxtel. Hmm. I am very tempted to!

And goodbye old Mr Ericson. You have served me well, and I'll miss how small and simple you were. Hello Miss iphone 4!

I only ordered it a week ago, was told by customer service it will take up to 4 weeks. So...I took my time looking for a case. I thought I'd be very prepared by ordering a $5 from ebay while I wait for cooler cases to be released for the iphone 4. Needless to say, the phone arrived first!

In all sickness I had to rush to the shops to get a temporary one, which cost me $24. It's called 'iLuv' by the way- and it's pretty damn ugly! Not to mention poor quality! It looked very decent in its box. In hindsight I should've got an expensive Speck or Belkin one. Ugh! Now I have the ugliest looking iPhone 4 on the street. But at least a got one :P !

Will be looking at dealextreme.com for deals on iphone 4 cases. Check it out!!

A very sad realization

2010-08-08T17:17:00.003+08:00

Welcome back.

I have been flat out lately!

Just the other day I was thinking about our place of worship. Now this can be a very controversial issue and not to mention sensitive.

I admire how temples and shrines are always looked after with pristine tidiness and careful planning. They clean it, paint it regularly, and respect their place of worship. It seems sacred, beautiful, and very acceptable. They adorn their places of worship with gold, jewels, and expensive materials.
Sadly I have not seen many Christian places of worship being as respected as those of other faiths.

We think it's someone else's job to pick up the piece of rubbish we think we saw at the corner of our eye but actually it's not really there because we just wished it away the minute we think we saw it.

How many times do we clean our toilets, throw out the rubbish, mop the floor, and make sure we have enough supplies for the week?

And how does not the same standards apply to our place of worship?

It's a sad, sad realization.

Let's do something about it!

Psalm 34

2010-07-27T21:29:00.004+08:00

I was reading Psalm 34 last night.

A question close to my heart surfaced, and really got me thinking.

A young woman, riddled with a rare form of cancer.
She praises God, believes Him to be her healer.
She brings people to Christ in the meantime.
She encourages others through her own suffering.
She falls, but gets back up again, stronger than before.
She hangs on, though it doesn't look very good.

Even tears cannot express how I feel sometimes.

Psalm 34

I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.

My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.

Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.

I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.

This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.

The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.

Taste and see that the LORD is good;
blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.

Fear the LORD, you his saints,
for those who fear him lack nothing.

The lions may grow weak and hungry,
but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.

Come, my children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the LORD.

Whoever of you loves life
and desires to see many good days,

keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from speaking lies.

Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.

The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous
and his ears are attentive to their cry;

the face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
to cut off the memory of them from the earth.

The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;
he delivers them from all their troubles.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

A righteous man may have many troubles,
but the LORD delivers him from them all;

he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.

Evil will slay the wicked;
the foes of the righteous will be condemned.

The LORD redeems his servants;
no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.

God's love must be so great that even something encouraging comes out of suffering.

The power of faith. The love of a creator. Nothing short of amazing.

Hang in there, dear cuz.

I love you and am praying for you.

How to wash dishes efficiently

2010-07-27T16:05:00.003+08:00

Ok. I can't believe I'm actually writing this post. Well, having reached 'aunty' status I think it shouldn't be any surprise though I still get mistaken for a 17yr old and get pity stares from strangers as they look at me, the baby in the stroller I am pushing, and back at me again. Or get asked 'AGE?' each time I make a face to face query that requires the applicant to be over 18 years of age.

Anyway, here is:

By using this method, I have found it to:
1. Save water
2. Save energy
3. Save detergent
4. Prolong the life of my dish sponge
5. Prevent the sink from clogging up- my pet hate!

This is how to wash dishes efficiently according to the Asian method. (detergent on a sponge, sponge the dishes, then wash detergent off and put on a dish rack to drip dry or wipe.)

1. Don't put all your dishes into the sink at once. Throw away any food scraps.
2. Wash the non-oily dishes first.
3. As you're nearing the end of washing the non-oily dishes, put the more dirty ones and let the water from the washing rinse through the dirty dishes.
4. That starts the cleaning process and helps lighten your load + it saves water.
5. Wash the dirty ones.

By washing the non oily ones first, it helps save detergent as less is required, and your sponge remains clean. So you have a nice clean sponge ready to combat the dirty dishes.

If you wash them all at once, your sponge may become oily, your hands oily, and it blocks the kitchen sink.

Tip: If you're washing VERY dirty/oily dishes eg. a bowl of butter, wipe off excess oil with a good paper towel (eg. Viva wipes) first. It helps tremendously.

True Friendship

2010-07-24T07:51:00.002+08:00

Friends...

...love you no matter what you are.

...share good and bad times together.

...see you through better or worse, even when you feel like the worstest person on earth they still stick by you.

...are there for you when you need someone just to listen to and be there.

....don't judge you.

....forgive.

...helps you see the other side of things when you don't even know there's another side.

The feeling is mutual.

...are honest and open with each other.

...point out each other's faults carefully and with tact.

...have fights, but get back again after realizing it was all just a silly misunderstanding.

... are so comfortable around each other you are not afraid to be who you really are.

....love you for who you are,

....bring out the better in you.

And I have found these type of friend/s.

I hope they know how much I appreciate and love them.

BIG SLOPPY KISS and BIG HUGS to you!!

One Thing Leads to Another

2010-07-07T10:38:00.003+08:00

Yesterday I rode of waves of emotions.

A couple of months ago, I remembered my passport was about to expire end of this month.

So I rang the *super duper efficient and reliable* Malaysian Embassy here in WA.

The woman on the other line confirmed and reconfirmed 'you have 6months after you passport expires to apply for a new one'. And, to supply 'pre certified copies of your IC. That's all you need'.

Ok, so I took my time. This is great. I am busy.

Yesterday, I decided to ring them again just to see if I needed to make an appointment.

And got told I had to renew it 6months BEFORE it expires.

Huh?

And I need to produce my original IC (Mykad) to apply for a new one.

But I haven't seen my original IC in yonks. So I went to the Embassy anyway, hoping I'd get told that seeing the original IC was just a formality and wasn't needed.

It wasn't so. The girl at the desk wouldn't budge. She told me I had to go back to Malaysia and it takes a few weeks to make a new IC. I was tempted to ask her how much it would be to just supply them with my photocopied IC. (ie. RASUAH)

That started a frenzy of emotions- that means I have to jump on the next plane to Malaysia to get my IC done, wait for it for god knows how long and try to get my passport done. Would I get it done in 3 weeks before my current one expires? If I don't, I won't be able to see my family here again in a long long time. What about my PR? Does an expired passport make my PR lapse? Maybe I should just apply for citizenship since I can. Forsake Malaysian citizenship forever.

I contacted my friend in KL and asked if I could stay. Lucky for me, her house is empty as her family is on holiday. What would I do with Ethan? And then I started worrying. What if I can't go back for my friends wedding? What if this..and what if that...

When I got home, I suddenly remembered I had a stack of Asian cards somewhere in my room.

I checked and- wholah! (not who lah but walah) I FOUND MYSELF STARING ME RIGHT IN THE FACE.

So everything was back to normal just in a split second I found me.

And all this while I thought I had lost it.

One thing leads to another, sometimes we need to step out of the box for a little while, take a little breather and analyze the situation from a different perspective. Easy said, not so easily done.

And just for your info, here's what to do to renew your Malaysian passport
- It can be done at the Malaysian Embassy in Perth. No need to fly to Canberra.
- Photocopies of pg1-3 and PR page of your current passport, your original birth cert + photocopies, 3 passport photos with blue background
- Take passport photos at Perfect Photos, along Hay Street. The only one in WA that takes Malaysian passport photos with stupid blue background that costs $20 for 6 photos. What a ripoff!
- Go to the Malaysian Embassy, fill in forms and feel like you're in Malaysia.
- Wait for half a year. (They said it takes a month, but we all know it doesn't)

And just for the record, your Australian PR does not lapse if your non-Australian passport expires.

PHEW.

Disgusted

2010-07-03T17:27:00.002+08:00

Can you help?

A family cat is fighting for his life in Sydney after apparently being set alight in an incident described by the RSPCA as a callous act of animal cruelty.

Snowy, a 19-month-old domestic longhair, crawled back to his Bankstown home about 4am (AEST) on Saturday suffering severe burns to most of his body.

He was found by his distraught owners with cut ears and evidence of tape on his legs as well as the horrific burn injuries.

"... It's hard to believe that he could have accidentally sustained those sort of injuries, so it looks like a more deliberate and callous attack," RSPCA Chief Inspector David Oshannessy told AAP.

"There is a suggestion that he may have been held down with tape while the attack was committed."

Mr Oshannessy said Snowy had been sedated and was on pain relief while undergoing treatment at the RSPCA's Sydney Veterinary Hospital.

Vets are unsure if he will survive.

"We are significantly worried about him at the moment because he has burns to a large majority of his body," Mr Oshannessy said.

"Vets are just cleaning his wounds and are hopeful that he will respond to treatment."

If he pulls through, the recovery process could take months.

Mr Oshannessy said the attack on Snowy had particularly affected RSPCA staff.

"He would have suffered significant pain as a result of the injuries sustained," he said.

"And if he is to recover, he is going to have a long and difficult road to recovery."

The maximum offence for serious animal cruelty is five years' imprisonment under the Crimes Act.

Mr Oshannessy is calling for anyone with information to contact the RSPCA on 02 9770-7555 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

"We are talking about a young animal who is essentially defenceless, who has endured significant suffering as a consequence of the offender's actions," he said.

Source: http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/breaking/7508672/burnt-cat-fighting-for-life-rspca/

It really saddens me that there is nothing I can do about stories like this. Animals made for our pleasure and company don't have a voice. Sometimes I really feel like saying, 'it's just not fair'.

Solitude

2010-07-01T21:02:00.002+08:00

The occasional whirring sound of my fridge.

The stillness of the messy toys that lay on my living room floor.

The breaths of my beautiful smelly dog Java, curled up at my feet.

The shadows cast by the only moving thing in the room- moi'.

I'm rapt.

Ahhhh...while it lasts.

Overdrive

2010-06-30T08:30:00.004+08:00

Little E is getting reallll active.
He is into everything, he MUST touch everything he sees, he MUST know everything and MUST point to everything and ask 'buabah?' (what's that?)
It seems as if his mind is constantly ticking, nothing makes it stop except the warmth of his bed.

But I don't blame him.

My mind has gone back to what it was before the birthing process. Which isn't very pretty, because it is constantly in overdrive.

For example, when I finally get a chance to sneak off and have a long, hot shower- I just can't leave it alone. It starts ticking again. I start to wonder about everything within my sight. Hmm..I wonder how they came about to make a Strawberry shower gel? Do they use real ones to start off with, oh I bet they had lots of fresh strawberries in the lab to compare it to. Was it fun? Mmm...strawberries and cream..What type of labcoats were they wearing? And what did the lab look like? Is it like Abby's lab in NCIS? Or maybe they didn't have a lab, it is just a makeshift tent in the middle of nowhere in Africa. Wait-do they have strawberries in Africa? I wonder what the process is like. What about this bottle...I wonder what the expiry date is? I don't see it anywhere. Let me see if I can read the tiniest font on this bottle. Oh I can't, it's too dark. Oh isn't this shower just so dirty. Let me just scrub it with this brush...

Sometimes, I feel like Sylar. Tick tock tick tock...

The need to wonder about everything.

I need a brake!

:)

What Birthdays are Really About

2010-06-25T08:59:00.002+08:00

What makes a birthday? First of all, the birth of the person whose birthday is being celebrated.
And then what?
Fairy floss? Ponies? Expensive presents? Consoles?

As a child I used to get butterflies in my stomach even a few days before my birthday. It was an exciting time, to get spoilt, treated nicely and rewarded just for making another year. Effortless reward!

As an adult I looked forward to meaningful gifts and fun with friends- there were so many- thank you really!

In the past, it was looking forward to putting my feet up, relaxing, treating myself to something, not doing housework for a day, eating out, going to expensive dinners.

But just the other day, looking at my young baby, (I was going to write 'little' but he ain't that small!) it got me thinking.

What are birthdays really about?

The fact that this time round, I still had to wake up before 5am, I still had to change pooey nappies, and I still had to make baby food and tidy up the house on my birthday,

that I still sang kiddy songs and did funny faces just to make him laugh,

that I nearly bought myself a bouquet of flowers just to brighten up the house, then realised it may not be so good an idea unless I don't mind cleaning pollen off the whole house and increasing the number of times the word 'N-O' is said in a day,

that I still went out and did groceries and banking,

and that my day was still packed with all the things I usually do. Just like any-other-day.

So I came to realization that birthdays, in all its glory, is not just about me or the person having the birthday.

Because I am still who I am, on my birthday, or any other day. I don't suddenly become wise, clever, beautiful, or special.

Birthdays are about the people who love you. The time spent with them un-buyable, the things done together cannot be done again, their smiles and laughter priceless. Every birthday wish, every present, every smile and every conversation is only possible on the day of your birth if love is present.

So now my eyes are open to what birthdays are truly about.

LOVE is truly the greatest gift of all.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3 ESV If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. (2) And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. (3) If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Journey of Hope

2010-06-21T08:34:00.003+08:00

I remember the fun times we had as little kids, innocent, and not knowing what the future holds for us.

I remember having holidays together, and having a total blast.

I remember having sleepovers when the family met, and having some heart to heart talk.

I remember having a sisterly figure to look up to.

Here's a Journey of Hope :

You're in my prayers.

Dead Serious

2010-06-17T20:54:00.002+08:00

The other day my husband and I were talking about med school.

It seems the days of cadavers are long gone.

As we all know, I suffer some sort of memory loss and some level of stupidity since the birth of little E.

I still remember the face of the cadaver we worked on in pharmacy school and the smell of preserved organs. A few of my coursemates nearly puked, some fiddled with it's (his?) intestines like it was just rags. I stayed a good distance away but close enough to get a glimpse of his face. They usually keep the head of the cadaver covered in black cloth, but that day the tutor was feeling adventurous and asked if we wanted to see all his organs. Poor man, I thought. And how generous he was to be on this operating table. Maybe he didn't have anyone else...but the thoughts stopped there. I shouldn't judge. Maybe he loved medicine and wanted to make a difference in this world.

"Hmm...I wonder why they don't have many cadavers these days. Maybe they're expensive?"

"I don't know, Rach (sarcastic). I think people need to be willing to donate their body to the good of medicine. I don't think you can buy cadavers. Or you may get people literally sacrificing themselves for their families!"

"Oh yea! Duhh...or it may encourage murder too."

Stupidity knows no end.

:(

Dreams of Faith

2010-06-13T23:07:00.002+08:00

There are times when I wish I was in my dreams forever.

Anyone else feel like that?

I believe God is ever seeing and ever knowing, and never changing.

He speaks through happenings, people, and even email or facebook.

All you need is a little faith, as simple as that. Faith is simple.

Then all will be revealed, night will seem like day.

There are no promises life will be a bed of roses but there is a promise that will stand forever.

And that promise is waiting to be discovered by you.

Because of this promise, that wish is just a temporary floating desire that dissipates as I drift back into reality.

God is good, all the time.

World Cup- Soccer Watching from a Girl's Eye

2010-06-13T15:57:00.002+08:00

The World Cup is on!

World Cup fever!!

Hmm. Am I into World Cup? Something I haven't decided yet, though it seems even most girls are this time.

Having said that, last night I did manage to forcibly but enjoyably watch Argentina vs. Nigeria. By the 72nd minute I was ready for bed. My eyes could hardly open but I felt like it was such a good game, to not watch it till the end would do them injustice!

I liked their red and yellow boots, that was actually what caught my attention in the first place! Yep, to see how many red boots and how many yellow boots there were!

I liked how I knew 2players (ex-Manchester United) Tevez and Veron (don't really know this dude) though I still find Tevez rather irritating because he takes his untidy hair around with him. But last night it was not as bad, because he had one of the most tidy hair in the whole Arg team.

I don't know how you could run with ponytails and hair in your face, it slows even me down and I don't even run. How do these players do it?

Poor husband had to put up with girly comments and sillyness throughout the game.

I thought Messi didn't play his best and no one plays like Christiano Ronaldo!

Getting quite sick of my ever protruding rabbitness of teeth. Yuck!

A Big Confession

2010-06-12T13:43:00.004+08:00

I love junkfood.

I love fried food, and I love chocolate.

But I didn't realise until the other day that it was my FIRST Big Mac. Ever.

Oh yum!

However I couldn't help but think I might just drop dead from clogged arteries at the end of the burger. So I didn't finish it, instead I had some McChips. Like that helps!

After a few bites of a Big Mac suddenly McChicken burger tastes real yuck.

And all that just to get a World Cup glass.

It was worth it!

Where the Love Lasts Forever

2010-06-07T09:06:00.002+08:00

Where the Love Lasts Forever.
A song that speaks to my heart.

I Still Wish

2010-06-06T22:40:00.005+08:00

I still wish I had a sister.

When I was a little girl, I would beg my mother to have another baby- a girl- just for me!

It was such fun growing up with two wonderful brothers, we had so much fun in the sun and dirt. We love each other to bits. There's nothing I wouldn't do for them.

If I had a sister,
- we could talk for hours till morning and not even realize it's morning.
- we could sleep in each other's rooms and decorate them.
- we could share clothes and shoes and talk about guys
- we could braid each others hair
- we could do the silliest things together
- we could like the same guy! *gasp
- we could be the best of friends

On the other hand,
If I had a sister,
- we could fight all day long
- we may not be the same size
- we may be total opposites
- we may like different things
- we may fight for the same guy *GASP!
- we may think we're hotter than the other
- we may find ourselves being compared in a 'not so nice' way

Hmm. So do I still wish I had a sister?

I Still Wish I could say, I love you sis.

A Piece of Me

2010-06-02T20:54:00.002+08:00

Love is a funny thing.

Sometimes there's not enough to go around, sometimes there's too much to give but no one to receive it. Sometimes, it makes the world a better place. But there is never enough, never too much.

So,

to the child who lost their mother, I love you;

to the person who feels like no one cares, I love you;

to the student who is feeling overwhelmed by it all, I love you;

to the worker who needs some encouragement, I love you;

to the good samaritan that no one notices, I love you;

to the person who is trying to find their feet, I love you;

to the one who feels insignificant, I love you;

to the employee who feels like they hadn't done their best that day, I love you;

to the dog who lost its owner, I love you;

to the owner who lost its dog, I love you;

to the person who needs to hear it, I love you.

I John 4:19 We love because He first loved us.

Hidden Truths

2010-05-30T21:25:00.002+08:00

We all have secrets.

Sometimes, however well we try to hide them, they shout out loud.

For the world to see. And we don't even realise it.

Recently, I have been really bad at making myself non transparent.

In the past I hid behind a facade of smiles, humour, and quietness.

Days out were spent on how to better shield myself from the judging minds of the natural human behaviour.

These days, I can't perform anymore.

What you see is what you get, though I am not someone who would make it seem like the whole world has to stop because of something involving me.

It's a funny feeling, not hiding away.

I am free.

If the Son has set you free, you are free indeed. John 8:36

Sweet sweet Words

2010-05-16T21:25:00.004+08:00

Over here Down Under, we don't like it if you're successful. We criticize, we pull you down so you can be as 'normal' as we are. We don't like it if you're being praised and have lots of money. The moment you make the headlines for something big, the next moment you'd be all over gossip magazines, scrunitized and drilled to no end. And when your life comes crashing down, we cash in on your misery, we follow your story and we feel sorry for you.

Yet it is common culture for us to go for the underdogs.

Why? It's just what everyone else does, so we follow.
When we go to a store we expect top notch service and if we don't get it we think they're racist and lazy.

But have we ever thought otherwise?

What IS the otherwise?

Sometimes we are so caught up with 'the culture' that we don't even know how to think otherwise or how to think for ourselves.
How do I know this?

A while back, when I was still a panicky, young student I had to sit a supplementary exam for an important unit. I sought help from a much feared lecturer who turned out to be the sweetest lady. She patiently went through my errors and pointed it out casually, she didn't judge me and she didn't make me feel dumb. I went on an passed the exam, and felt really grateful for her time and advice. I wanted to get her something, flowers maybe? But it just wasn't what people do. It wasn't cool. Fellow students disliked her and had nothing good to say. So in the end, I got her nothing. It stayed with me for months until finally I sent her an email. A reply of gratitude came a few days later. "Thank you. It is nice to hear such words, you don't get it very often."

That made me realize two things- that we can be more verbally grateful, and words mean almost everything. It usually tears down, but it can build up too.

We're so quick to pick on errors and negative things about people- gossip, calamities, and illnesses but why are we not quick to encourage, praise, and smile?

I am working on a habit to praise and encourage people for their time and effort. There are so many things to be grateful for- but it only counts when it is said.

Sweet words are like honey to the soul, it leaves a delightful waft of sunshine that carries us to a higher place-a place where everyone wants to be for a long, long time.

Join me?
Love you all. xoxo!

Weekend Encounter

2010-05-14T12:35:00.004+08:00

I subscribe to the Weekend Encounter by ACTS International, which sends emails to me every weekend.

Often there are uplifting stories of faith, courage, honesty and love.

There is also a section of humour called 'The Lighter Side'- it is my favourite. I must admit sometimes that is all I read, but I am making an effort to read everything else.

Here is this week's Lighter Side:

Paul Newman founded the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp for children stricken with cancer, AIDS and blood diseases. One afternoon he and his wife, Joanne Woodward, stopped by to have lunch with the kids. A counselor at a nearby table, suspecting the young patients wouldn't know that Newman was a famous movie star, explained, "That's the man who made this camp possible. Maybe you've seen his picture on his salad dressing bottle?" Blank stares. "Well, you've probably seen his face on his lemonade carton." An eight-year-old girl perked up, "How long was he missing?"

God Bless Paul Newman.

Crockpot Cooking

2010-05-10T21:15:00.003+08:00

I am very inspired and excited about my slow cooker at the moment.

I've been trying to cook healthier food for the family.

Soy sauce, MSG, oyster sauce- all out the window on most days.
Hello to grilling, steaming and blanching- and boiling! It IS possible to cook yummy food without using much oil.

But I do admit cooking the odd kampua or or fried chicken. (yumm!!)

I came across this website and am getting all fired up about cooking almost everything on there!

Actually the idea only came out of a broken oven. I have been waiting for months (since Christmas) for my oven to be fixed (the grill bit works) but really, really felt like cooking lamb one day, and thought: 'hmm, how else can I cook a leg of lamb?'

So I put my thinking hat on and in went the 1.12kg lamb leg with a large potato, some leftover carrots, fresh rosemary and crushed garlic with a pinch of salt, plus half a cup of red wine and a third of a cup of water.

We'll know how it tastes tomorrow!

Next on the menu: Crockpot Pound Cake!

Looking forward to befriending the slow cooker!

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T16:26:00.005+08:00

It's Mother's Day!

Just as well little E has been napping for the past hour and a half, so my mother's day treat was an undisturbed latest episode of Gossip Girl. Ahhh....bliss!

However, I feel a little old for Gossip Girl these days. Desperate Housewives seems more relevant somehow, which makes me even older.

But last night I got asked the best question I have ever been asked before. I didn't even know there was such a thing as the best question ever. Before going into that, here is what my mother sent me:

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby
I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a screaming child so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got so gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew that I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I never knew the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and a child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10minutes to make sure all was ok.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.

I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

......
and before I was a Mom, I didn't know being asked 'are you a teenager?' by a nine year old would bring so much amusement.

It was hilarious and she corrected herself by saying, 'oh, actually I mean: are you an adult?'

Innocence is to be celebrated!

Happy Mother's Day all mommies out there especially to my mommy :)

Baby on Board!

2010-05-06T14:34:00.003+08:00

Have you seen one of these recently?

What goes through your mind?

Or is it 'just another sign' like the animals crossing sign most people ignore?

Well. There is a REASON why people put this sign up on their cars.

And it is not just to tell the whole world that you have a baby.

Being an occupant of such, I have come to a realisation- nobody cares whether you have this sign on your car or not. Not in WA, anyway.

So here are some things to think about the next time you see this sign.
1. There is a baby in the car. This means the driver is being extra careful and driving ACCORDING TO THE LAW.

2. It is not polite to tailgate a car with a baby in it.

3. The baby may be screaming, crying, pooing or whatever-ing that is probably making the driver uncomfortable and stressed. Imagine driving with a screaming baby in your backseat and not being able to soosh it and at the same time trying to concentrate on the road and getting to where you need to get to.

4. There may be more than one baby. In that case, double the above.

5. There may be a sleeping baby in the car and the driver may have not had much sleep for weeks, and is trying their best to stick to the law and this is the first time they've had some peace and quiet. Honking is not considered peace and quiet.

6. They may be rushing somewhere. Someone close to me once saw a four wheel drive on the freeway frantically honking the cars in front of it. And in that FWD was a child that lay unconscious.
7. Be patient. Be thankful that you have all the time in the world when others may just not.

8. Be selfless. Think when you drive. Driving is not just starting a car engine, it is about being courteous and helpful on the road.

There may be other reasons too, and it not only applies to the cars with the babyonboard sign.

Sometimes, I seriously think I should get something like this:

So, the next time before you start your car, think.

Your actions may just be the only act of kindness someone receives that day.

Looking Up

2010-05-04T18:40:00.003+08:00

There is a burning need to look up to someone 'older' or 'better'.

And everyone has that implanted in the deepest realms of their souls.

Subconsciously or consciously, we are constantly looking to shadow someone.

We are on the look out to make someone the example how our lives should turn out to be.

What if that someone isn't who they seem to be?

Or what are the possibilities our lives would turn out to be what we want it to be?

How are we going to handle situations that come out of nowhere?

Que Sera Sera.

Sometimes, hair isn't all that important.

Trapped! 2

2010-04-29T20:11:00.002+08:00

...continued...

The same army of strong men was sent to get me back. I ran and ran and ran, but I didn't make it. I was caught and the usual needle injected. But somehow I was beginning to become immune to it. For weeks I pretended that I was in the program but I knew I had to get out of there somehow.

I came to know this nerdy looking man in his forties who seemed like a trustworthy person. He had been there for a while, and was one of the 'senior' ranks. There were a few main game players, he said. Mrs Lang the leader, and her two faithful followers who were the disciplinarians. No one could disobey but if they did they would be disciplined.

One could only disobey if the effects of the drug was wearing off. But the consequences of disobedience was torturous or fatal.

The day came when I got to use a huge sewing machine. One of Mrs Lang's many creations. We were in a room full of built in ceiling high machines. The walls were soft, like stressball material. And once again just like robots, we followed instructions and began weaving.

But as I was almost fully aware of things as the drug had slowly worn off, I was beginning to see what we were doing for real.

You see, on the other side of the walls were bedrooms. Rooms with one single bed and one follower tied onto the bed with their feet hammered to the wall. We were weaving their feet. You could only guess what the red fluid was. Muffled screams sounded like relaxing beautiful music to those who were not immune against their jabs- everyone. So this was the fate of my friends who had tried to speak up when the drug had worn off and they realised where they really were.

"You listen to me, precious. You take baby and run, ok. Run and don't look back, run to the trains, you hear? Now go!"

Michel had discovered a secret exit from the place. Turns out that forty something nerdy looking man was once a urologist and Mrs Lang's obstetrician. He was talking to his little girl. The drugs didn't work on him too, and just like me, he knew the consequences and was just playing along. He said that children were not administered this special drug because he lied and told Mrs Lang it wouldn't work.

Mrs Lang was a famous science researcher back in the day. Success was her middle name, and she excelled in her field. But success also brought her downfall. Two failed marriages and the disability to bear children ticked her off. But it was not until she realised it was all her own doing that Mrs Lang reached breaking point. Michel was her unfortunate obstetrician that had to break the news- she had passed the age of child-bearing.

I took little Tori who clutched the baby in her arms and we ran like no tomorrow. We did reach the trains but a train had just departed! I wanted to be with Tori, to escape. Out of that crazy warehouse all my senses were coming back.

"Come back!" I spotted Michel in the distance, shouting as if his life depended on it.

"No, " I said. "I want out too!"

"Listen to me! If you leave now, this wouldn't end the way it's supposed to!"

Was I being selfish? Tori and the baby or the hundreds of victims who were also my friends- the choice was difficult, but clear.

So I turned around and followed Michel back.

I couldn't wait to restore my life to what it once was.

When I woke up, I felt like an adventurer. Boy am I glad it was all just another lame, crazy dream.

Trapped!

2010-04-24T09:25:00.002+08:00

I felt a sting on my right arm.

"Sorry I have to do this to you,"

A heavy weight pulled my body down into the arms of a person I trusted. Carefully he carried me to an unknown location, it couldn't have been far from where we met because I was only on the brink of losing consciousness. The last thing I saw, was four tiled walls and faeces in the small cramped room I was put in. Perhaps a few flies too, and lots of dirt. Filthy.

A while later, a beautiful smell woke me up. I opened my eyes and I lay in a neat and tidy room on a simple single bed with fresh clean white linen and a desk. It felt like I had had a deep, satisfying rest - but where was I?

I went to the wooden door which seemed not to match the rest of the tidiness of the room. It was obviously man-made, painted green and had was complete with an old fashioned latch.

"Yawn..hi!" a familiar voice greeted me. Shannon! She was my bestest of best friends of all time. She was here too. Phew. Some relief at last. It so happened we opened our room doors at the same time.

"Let's go! Get your bag and let's go! Classes are starting soon,"

Just like a robot, I went and grabbed my blue backpack sitting on the wooden chair in my room and followed her.

It was a huge warehouse-like building, with rooms on all sides of the structure and a huge dining hall in the middle which would also be our gathering place. The atmosphere was dark- but surprisingly trim and neat. We attended classes that taught us life skills. Things like sewing, cleaning, and even looking after the sick in makeshift hospital beds. Or so I thought.

After classes, my newfound friends, Shannon and I decided we would go out to the fields nearby to grab some fresh air. I was feeling more energetic but somewhat untypically colourblind. As soon as we stepped out of the building an army of heavily armed guards chased and surrounded us! "Put down your weapons!" One shouted. Weapons? Me? Us? Who?

Shani produced a watergun and started squirting it around. What was she thinking! Immediately one soldier pulled out his machine gun and aimed it at her head. Chugchugchug! Shani fell to the ground screaming in angst. She was gone.

Without a word, they whisked us into a big darkened room and there was a woman in there. Mrs Lang was her name. She had short white curly hair and freckles. She wasn't old but probably old enough to be someone's grandmother. My mind was racing. This wasn't right. I thought everything was normal even the shooting of my newfriend Shani. We all looked to Mrs Lang like a goddess, a king, our leader.

Months passed and everyday we each had a daily needle. Everyone seemed ok with it and happy to oblige.

But there was one day when I didn't get my needle. Or didn't get a full dose of it. I was looking at my backpack and it was blue. Or was it pink? No, definitely blue. A few blinks later it looked pink.

"Is something the matter here?" Mrs Lang boomed as she noticed I wasn't acting normally.
"I ...my bag...it's pink. I hate pink, and my bag is blue." Mrs Lang then took me to the principal's office which turned out to be a hospital ward.

"Now that you've discovered me, I will tell you everything but I will give you your daily shot and you will remember nothing. I am Mrs Devina Lang, your master. Everyday you get a shot of my secret drug just to keep you in line. The things you see and perceive are not what they are. You and all your other friends live in old toilet blocks which have been abandoned and not cleaned for years. After injection of the drug you perceive it as a clean room. You also attend my school where you follow a program to make you a worthy homemaker. You think your bag is blue, but it actually is pink. The drug makes you see things very differently. There is no escape out of here. All the people in here have been injected and I have carefully collected them from their daily lives. We have doctors, musicians, engineers, rubbish collectors, all sorts, and you are all equal."

I listened. Oh boy. Beside her was a baby on a hospital bed. It was well and truly alive and healthy but it was just lying there.

She had more to say but I gathered all my energy and darted.

A New language

2010-04-23T17:15:00.006+08:00

I am learning the art of baby language.Unfortunately I am not getting very far.

Daddy = dada/baba/papa
Mummy = dada/dayday
Hungry= UAAAA!!
Random comments = teiteiteiteiteitieiteidadadada

Little E is growing real fast. The only other word he can say besides daydaydayteitei adadaa! is 'ava' (Java!)

He is also a real charmer. Too much of one! I do say 'no' to him and give him a stern look when needed but sometimes he looks back up at me, stares at me as if he understood the word and then puts on his cutest smile. Oh the cheek! So I have no choice, but to quickly turn my head the other way when I feel a smile coming on myself.

Then I put on my stern face again, and look at him as if nothing changed.

Sometime he is just too funny, so I have to keep reminding myself, 'discipline! boundaries! right and wrong!'

Poor dog.

Ideas

2010-04-17T22:27:00.002+08:00

Just the other day I had so much I was going to blog about.

Today, now, I am all alone and have the perfect opportunity to put it into 'typing'.

But I have no idea what my idea was the other day.

Great post on ideas.

Here's what my head is filled with these days:

A horse and a flea and three blind mice
Sat on a curbstone shooting dice
The horse he slipped and fell on the flea
"Whoops," said the flea, "There's a horse on me!"

Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?
Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?
Giddy and foolish the whole day through
Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?

Way down South where bananas grow
A flea stepped on an elephant's toe
The elephant cried, with tears in his eyes
"Why don't you pick on someone your own size?"

Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?
Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?
Giddy and foolish the whole day through
Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?

Way up North where there's ice and snow
There lived a penguin and his name was Joe
He got so tired of black and white
He wore pink slacks to the dance last night!

Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?
Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?
Giddy and foolish the whole day through
Boom, boom, ain't it great to be crazy?

Eli, Eli had some socks
A dollar a pair and a nickel a box
The more you wear 'em the better they get
And you put 'em in the water and they don't get wet!

Stirs up the crazy in me.

Who Am I?

2010-03-29T17:09:00.003+08:00

My eyes droop with heaviness;
but my heart is filled with happiness.

Body aches become the norm;
but just a smile keeps me warm.

A million things to do;
A million places to go.
A million things to buy;
And a million questions why.

There is a special place,

A special privilege, a unique belonging, and a joyful blessing;

A place I go when I forget why, who, or what.
A quiet little corner where I surrender;
To the One who is the Greater;

And then I remember- I am now a mother.

Feeling Hairy

2010-03-24T11:29:00.002+08:00

Found some amazing videos by buzbeauty.

Enjoy!

Why You Can't Stay Mad for Long

2010-03-23T21:18:00.005+08:00

I love my dog. No matter how naughty she is or has been, she's still my little Java.

Today little E has been very demanding, irritable, and restless.

He keeps wanting me to pick him up, as soon as I put him down his tiny arms reach out and he thrusts his little body towards me.

ok-today a Rusk did the babysitting for 5 minutes.Look at Mr Grumpy.

11kilos is not light I tell ya- my poor back has paid the price.

By nightfall, my brain is fried. Spiced with infant whining and swimming in housechores.
Two attempts to put the tired baby down to bed failed. So I decided to put him in the living room, on his trusty playmat and let the dog babysit him for a while.

She is pretty reluctant- anyone would be in this situation.

Java: Get me outta here!!
Ethan: Bouncing up and down thrilled to touch a big furry, moving toy!

But I know they love each other (despite the annoyed look on her face!) just as much as I love them.

Yep, you can't stay mad at a baby for long. What more to say your own!

My Eyes are Open. Mouth, not so. Until now.

2010-03-21T19:25:00.006+08:00

Motherhood is a blessing.

It is also an eye-opener for me. I know now what my own mother went through, and that makes me appreciate her all the more. I grew up always knowing she had sacrificed so much for us and made us feel ever so loved.

So now I have a much better sense of appreciation for my mother.

For one, she doesn't nag. She doesn't impose her ideas on us and she doesn't force us to do anything. She only encourages and I have never heard a 'you're not good enough'. She trusts us completely. She may not be the best cook in the world, but she educated her children very well with healthy eating and some table manners. She supplied/s all our emotional needs and treats us with respect and care. She talks to us only with love and in love. She doesn't shout at us for no reason. She let us run our own lives.

Over the past twelve months I have been observing all sorts of mothers. And learning from them. (or not.)

ChristArt.com

Sometimes, to the Asian parents who are a generation or two older than I am and who seem to know it all, I wish I could tell them what I truly thought of their forceful opinions and superstitious techniques. But no, being Asian you're not supposed to 'answer back'! So my mouth is sealed most times. Bottom line is, people these days are more educated than 30 to 50 years ago, so please hold your tongue when you feel the need to say 'oh MY kids never did that,' or 'I NEVER did this,' or 'you MUST do this,' or 'this is better for the baby,'. It doesn't necessarily have to be in verbal form, sometimes a dirty look is all that is needed. Here I am referring to silly traditional superstitious things people used to do because they were not as educated as today.

I once brought little 3month old E out for dinner at a Chinese restaurant. He was screaming and crying because it was past his bedtime and he was hungry, and tired. So I took him outside. An Asian man was standing at the entrance having a smoke. He frowned and looked at me as if I were dumb, saying, 'hoi hoi! Baby bely cole la better yu bring in! Don be out here! Haiyah! ' Hmm. Need I say more? A smoking Asian dude telling me off thinking he knows everything about my baby- when he is trying to kill us all.
Don't get me wrong. There are a lot of good points about Asians. One thing I don't understand is, their need to constantly nag and judge others. Well ok, not all. Only some of the ones I've met.

Maybe this is what they call 'generation gap' , or maybe it is a serious clash of culture and beliefs. And I only say 'Asians' because these are the group of people I am perhaps most familiar with. Perhaps other ethnic groups do the same, or maybe this is how the world works.
Whatever it is, it's driving me totally nuts.Conclusion:
Lack of sleep + constant nagging + extreme busyness = flustered, irritated, nutty person.

So now, my mouth is once again shut for the better of mankind.

It's been a while

2010-03-14T21:10:00.003+08:00

I haven't done it in a while.

Each time I do, it makes me feel more like a woman than it did the last time.

Should I even be doing it?

Is it bad for the body?

So I haven't done it for almost a year.

It makes the world a little more colourful, a little brighter.

I used to do it when I was dead bored.

But now it seems like a luxury and I will savour every moment of it.

So, I'm off to paint my nails. (Toenails, that is, because I can't paint fingernails in case some paint gets into bub's food!)

Good night, and good week!

The Red Stripey...

2010-03-12T20:50:00.004+08:00

I did it!

I finally did it.

I thought I would never ever ever be able to do it especially after having my skin stretched and pulled and stretched beyond its limits.

It lived in my cupboard for three whole years and never said a word.

I tried it on over and over but put it back over and over. "Too skinny," "Not enough tone," "Too fair," "Too unsexy," I used to say to it as I stood in front of the mirror.

I wished over and over to wear it but wishes they only were.

Yesterday, I did it.

I wore my red stripey bikini!

And we went swimming!

And I looked like this!

(so NOT!)

Yup, I did it. I overcame my fears and low body image and wore my long lost friend...

...as we 'swam' in my humongous pool of a bathtub- just baby and me.

And we had a blast!

So there.

I did it.

Hello? Anybody Home?

2010-03-07T20:50:00.003+08:00

Hello again!

It's been far too long that the writer in me has nearly died. Or maybe it has, and now it is trying to resurrect. :P

Life as sweet as it is, has changed. Drastically. It's a whole new world now- new challenges, new situations. Feels as though I have just walked out of my previous life and popped into a new one- just like that.

Motherhood is different! It's new! It's tough! It's full of ochipalas! Delightful surprises! Questions! Lots of I-dont know-hows! Trial and error(s)! Hope-I-get-it-rights! What ifs! Who do I asks! What do I do nows! What if he's abnormals! I am so bloody tireds! This is amazings! WOWs! So cutes! Oh looooks!

And at times it does get rather overwhelming.

But everyday is a gift from God, so what is there to whinge about? Life is short. And it certainly is worth every bit of toil and effort when you get to see this everyday:

He's seven months old now. Time flies, and soon, he will be pacing around the house and then running. I can SO wait for that. (But Java can't!)

The Sum of Dim Sum

2009-11-11T21:07:00.003+08:00

A couple of weeks ago we managed to have a nice relaxing dim sum lunch as a family. Well not that little E could eat any of it but he did have a ball looking up at the red Chinese lanterns and old Christmas decorations hanging from the wall.

It was my turn to pay, so up I went.

There was a queue. A tall middle-aged Aussie man in front of me holding a wine bottle in a paper bag, and in front of him two non Asian women.

When waiting my turn took unusually long, I naturally decided to eavesdrop a little and check out what was taking so long.

The boss who operates the cash register himself was ringing up the bill for the women.

Woman: ....so....how much was the veges?

Boss: Nine dollar.

Woman: Oooo wow, NINE dollars for a plate of veges?

Boss: Yea, because it's not a lunch special.

Woman: How much was the fried squid then? I'm just asking.

Boss: Ten dollar. (gloomyface)

Woman: Oooo I see. I'm just askin' ya know? Just askin'.

Boss: (not impressed look or maybe that's his natural self)

Woman: So, when is lunch special then?

Boss: Lunchtime.

Woman: Oh.

By then, her card had been accepted. Without a word, she grabs her card and walks out with her blonde friend.

Man in front of me: So, is that price (referring to his bill) lunch special?

The serious looking boss and his wife cracked up a rare laugh. "That bottle you're holding is the last special, after that no more," she exclaimed cheekily.

The man laughed and paid.

Then he turned around, shook his head and flashed a grin before putting his sunnies back on and leaving.

That was the weirdest paying experience ever.

What's happened?

2009-10-31T20:52:00.004+08:00

Ok. Before anything- I just changed my background. Things were getting a little too pink for me!

I have been so busy bonding with bub and getting my life in order that I haven't been blogging much. Finally, today bub is pretty settled at the moment and I have some time to myself.

So what's been happening? Well two main things besides the obvious.

Firstly, life is really short, you never know when you'd be next. Or who would be next. Recent experiences constantly remind me of this. Love those around you, live everyday to the fullest! No regrets.

Secondly, I am revamping the kitchen. Or should I say my Cooking Style!

Most sauces are in the bin now as I move towards a healthier lifestyle. I'm eliminating certain foods in my diet or trying to keep them to a minimum at least. Like canned food, and preserved stuff. And soy sauce and oyster sauce. And Chinese sauces and things.

So, the pantry is overflowing with spices! And the garden with herbs! Here's whats in my garden:

Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme, Lemon thyme, coriander, mint, chilli plant, spring onion, chives, and more recently marjoram and dill. Welcome to the family!

Here's what's in my kitchen in place of all the packet sauces and supermarket sauces:
Tumeric ground
Fennel ground
Cumin ground
Cloves
Star anise
Cinnamon quils
Cinnamon ground
Nutmeg ground
Paprika ground
Red Hot Chili Powder
Coriander seeds

I still want to add:
Vanilla pods
Some nuts
and..lots of other spices but I haven't had time to think of them!

Spices are good for you. Even one spice, for example tumeric, has 20 benefits already (see http://www.healthdiaries.com/eatthis/20-health-benefits-of-turmeric.html ). I'd rather have that than preservatives and boric acid!

And raw sugar instead of sugar. Sea salt instead of processed salt. And freshly thermomixed juice instead of sugary supermarket 'juices'.

And boiling chicken frames and putting the stock in the freezer rather than buying cubes or readymade supermarket chicken stock.

And buying less snacks although they're on special (very tempting)!

But I wouldn't go as far as substituting TimTams for carob sticks! Or eat lots of seeds and nuts for brekkie.

I still love my chocolate, chips and fried foods.

Some things just cannot be substituted.

Yummmm.....!

A New Concept

2009-10-16T15:38:00.006+08:00

I came across a very unique photographer the other day.

Joshua Hoffine is his name. Ever heard of it? Probably not, unless you're into re-living your childhood fears and nightmares.

This is why I do not wish to employ a babysitter.

But I think his scariest work of art yet is of Lady Bathory, a real 16th century evilwoman. Sends shivers down my spine. Watch out, virgins! (phew I am safe)

And how about this for jewelery?

His website and blog http://joshuahoffine.wordpress.com/

Not your usual photographer eh!

A Cutting Experience

2009-10-14T12:54:00.005+08:00

I had to wear something 'nice'. This was the first time I could get out of the house to do something pampering for myself. Unfortunately in this modern world, to be treated with a little respect you need to dress up a little.

So I put on my heels, tights and a tunic dress (actually I think it is meant to be a flowy top) and some makeup and off I went.

I couldn't help but feel a little intimidated as a creative-looking man lady opened the front doors with pride. The girls were just starting work and one had trouble turning on the ipod which would later fill the whole place with chic music.

"Hello, is your name Rachel? Here have a seat and fill in these forms and I will be right with you," I was suddenly noticed.

"Ok, come through here with me," the black-haired woman in her 30's showed me to a spacious, brightly lit room full of big mirrors. Then she put a fuscha pink cloth and a bright orange one around my neck before we both decided what would be best.

A cuppa and three fashion mags later, I found myself at the equivalent of a dentist's chair, only comfortable and pleasant, much to my delight. It was then my head received the biggest treat of its life!

Then I was politely ushered to the other side of the room for the final cut.

"Sorry about the wait," she said. A thin, tall dark skinned lady whom I met earlier came around with a big smile on her face. "There, I found the picture I was talking about earlier. See, a bit like Gwyneth Paltrow's?"

So we agreed.

"So did you say you just had a baby?" She muttered in disbelief. "Yeah," I replied. "Two months ago,"

And with that, the conversation ended. She must have thought I was some little girl having babies out of wedlock and somehow made her uncomfortable. But she did concentrate on the cut, and looked pretty passionate about what she was doing. So I went on and read more beauty mags. How surprising to see a very detailed story about Bernie Maddoff in a beauty mag! Do girls read this stuff?

And the end of it all I came out refreshed, pampered, and as if a weight had lifted off my shoulders (literally).

Was it worth it? Would I do it all over again? It was well worth my $100 voucher. And worth the $95 hole in my pocket. All up it was $195 but it was the best haircut experience I've had. It included tea, coffee, politeness (which you don't usually get at a hairdressers unless it's Edmund), a head massage to die for, and the latest beauty and fashion mags. It also included a free lipstick, some free food and nightclub vouchers, not that I would be able to use them
anyway.

Maurice Meade does live up to its name after all.

Now back to reality...

Priceless

2009-09-24T08:29:00.001+08:00

My favourite pic at the moment. He's so happy after a bath!

Change.

2009-09-23T20:56:00.002+08:00

Some people pray for change.

Some people need change.

Some can't take it.

Some would give up just anything for it.

Others are afraid of it while some can't wait for it.

Everybody changes over time.

Situations change.

Some people don't.

God never changes.

And changed forever is a life after birth.

Change makes life interesting, and life is made up of changes.

I like change.

Ok so I've been 'bored'...

2009-09-17T16:43:00.005+08:00

Not exactly bored, but 'bored'.

Facebook has been the only source of communication and 'socializing' for me, until now.

I have been so busy I'd forgotten there was such a thing as Youtube!

Watch this:

How long can you last?
These women look like they're in their early thirties but talking like they are American teenagers.

It's like, so like, funny you know, that like, I just laughed my head off although like, I think what they say maybe is a bit real but maybe like, exagerative?

I love Taylor Swift music. And that thing Kanye West did during the awards actually made her even more famous I reckon.

Having said that, I came across this Youtube parody of the song that won her an award: "You Belong With Me".

I love Taylor Swift but I also love Parodys.

That brings us to Little Britain USA!

My most favourite receptionist of all time. Enjoy!

Parodys remind me not to take life too seriously - have a bit of a laugh at yourself and chill.

A New Understanding

2009-09-11T14:35:00.002+08:00

I used to wonder what it would be like to look after a baby.

Why do mothers with young babies carry such huge bags?

Why are they usually almost always not on time for appointments and functions?

Why do people 'mellow down' once they have babies?

So I found my answers.

What's in a baby bag?

Extra diapers
Extra baby and mummy's clothing
Towels and bibs
Baby wipes
Tissues
Change mat
Baby bottles/formula
Small toy/s
Water for poor mummy
Hand sanitizer
Powder and lotion for particular mummys

...and then the bag ends up heavier than your baby.

Is it that difficult to keep an appointment?
Well!! Depends on the baby!! It's not easy to go out these days anymore. Gone are the days of spontaneity and randomness. No more, 'hey, i feel like going shopping now!' or 'lets go out for dinner tonight,'

Instead it's 'Shall we aim to go out for a meal next Wednesday around 5-6pm depending on baby's feeding times and how settled he is and the weather and how much sleep I get and oh ya we need to go somewhere child-friendly with parking and good toilets...and of course good food too...'

And what about shopping?! How to lug a baby around and go clothes shopping, it beats me. Have yet to try that, I doubt very much I would anytime soon. New mothers don't really go clothes shopping anyway, due to fatness and tiredness and priorities.

And the mellowing down?
If one doesn't mellow down after a 24/7 marathon of feeding, burping, washing, sterilising, nappy changing, bathing, cuddling, playing, and on top of that looking after oneself and the house and the rest of the family- then I don't know what One is made of.

And with baby in my other arm and on my lap sucking away at his bottle, I have a newfound respect for mothers with multiple kids and single mums.

Happy Father's Day

2009-09-07T20:02:00.002+08:00

HFD for yesterday!

This is a belated post as yesterday was too tiring and busy a day for us.

So it's DH's first Father's Day! I was so disappointed I wasn't able to get him anything although I did make an effort to drive (not supposed to drive yet...oops) to one baby shop with bub only to find they had sold out of all father's day things...

Since little E is too young to blog, I'll tell you a tiny bit about DH instead.

DH is truly the best husband a husband can be. He never fails to amaze me. Which husband stays with you 24/7, does all the dishes, cooks, throws out the rubbish, changes nappies, feeds baby, mops the floor, vacuums the rugs, cleans the dog, serves you tea, and then ask: "Is there anything else you'd like me to do?"

He even wakes up in the wee hours of the morning and feeds bub every 2 hours just so I can have some rest.

Everyday, I thank God for his wonderful gift of marriage and love.

I love you my DH! Happy First Father's Day. You'll get your present next year :P

(ps: DH = Dear Husband)

A New Word

2009-09-06T19:56:00.006+08:00

Chinese tea.

Chinese love it, the older generation especially (maybe?)

DH loves chinese tea, so I prepare it for him on many occasions. Today I decided to try some too.

I have never really taken to chinese tea as I didn't grow up on it (or anything Chinese much), but somehow today it was refreshing and invigorating.

I have been Chineseyfied.

James Johnston for Idol!

Butt-less chicken in the oven is now ready for consumption.

And tiredness creates randomness.

...needs some entertaining.

2009-08-31T19:57:00.003+08:00

So does!

I sit here with my laptop on my lap (no pun intended) wishing I had some form of entertainment. Well it is really very satisfying and entertaining just watching Little E fall asleep- he pulls all sorts of funny faces as he drifts off into the land of nod. But after that I need some other form of sanity. This is when my world begins. For a little while at least, until the Beast awakens. (ok, he's not really a beast.)

It's barely 8:00pm and I am so so ready for bed. Bub sleeps early, you see. Much earlier than 8:00 pm, in fact so early that I don't want to talk about it here!

I remember playing this game growing up:
Need at least 2 players.
Take a piece of paper and a pencil.
Draw as many columns as you can think of.
Take turns to shout out any alphabet and category (eg: letter A, fruits).
Compete to see who can come up with the most fruits starting with letter A in English or Malay.
Write them as quickly as you can in the columns, while shouting them out. The first to shout out a word and writes it down and has the most wins.

That's what we did when we were so bored. I am not bored now, so I came up with something else. It's a one person player since there is only me here. I doubt Little E can play. It's pretty lame, but it's keeping me slightly entertained and working my brain a little.

Foonglish (Foochow English)
Lettuce = let use
Spagetthi = SPAG- eti
Don't want = dong wang
Like that = lie det
Usher = archer
Blanket = blang cake
Make = met
Is it = issik
Racket = ruck cake
cake = ket
cat = kek
Glory = gory
Why = Y
The = de
For = fo
To = tu
An example of a sentence:
Y you dong wang tu met ket fo de kek?

Being in Australia has surprisingly taught me so much about Foochows. From ex-housemates to friends to family, I have learnt some things of my own culture which I was oblivious to in the past. They are pretty neutral, I don't think they're good or bad. It's a cultural thing. For example,
- When ringing someone's home, always ask if they've had their meal yet. Even if it's 3pm, ask if they have had their lunch. I wonder what the cut off time is? If it's 4pm, do you ask if they've had their dinner, or lunch?
- Have dinner real early, 5:oopm?
- To celebrate something, always have food involved. Must always have fish.
- Eat lots of pork and cook with lots of oil.
- All parts of the pig is edible.
- Talk very loudly and laugh even louder.
- Have a beer gut- it looks prosperous.
- Believe in some form of superstition- it's tradition so it's good for you.
- Talk about how much you miss the local Sibu dishes, especially kampua (yummoss!)
- Give back what you get from others. (Hmm I don't understand this one)
- Red is good
- Black is bad
- Don't stir your Milo. You will get dizzy.

There is so much more to discover about Foochows.

And just to be VERY extremely lame, does anyone know why Foochows love food?
This just came to my mind:

Food = chow, right?

So what is that in Foonglish?

Foo-chow ie. FOOCHOW.

I think your brain is overloaded with lameness now, so it's time to stop.

And then, I am entertained...

Of Excrements and Superstitions

2009-08-27T10:31:00.003+08:00

What's new?

I got some sleep! My DH kindly took the whole night shift and finally, I managed some sleep. Where would I be without DH! Just wonderful... :)

Little E doesn't B.O everyday. Yep, B.O means poo. I like to call it B.O.

It's normal for babies to B.O once a day or even once every two days. Fortunately for us, Little E does his once every two days. That means less soiled nappies to change.

But it also means MASSIVE shit nappies!

Yeah, I can't believe I'm actually talking about my kid's shit. But what other way to release the tension of the smell of the buildup of gas in my nasal passages...

How does it all happen?

First, we feed him. Then, we cradle him and settle him. It goes something like this:

Me: Oooh look, he's falling asleep! Phew...wait...wait...his eyes are half opening now...

Brrkkk...! brrkkk!!

I feel vibrations, gently, quietly he does it.

A strong stench slowly takes the place of oxygen in the room.

DH: Euw yuck!! Was that him? Me: Duh of course it was...who do you think it is, me? DH: Oh man, you got a stinker there!! Me: Help me! Quick!

So we place him on his change station (btw, a change station is a MUST HAVE for new babies. It's a a Godsend!) and proceed to open up the little bundle of mess.

The stench gets stronger as each layer of his clothing is unwrapped...

DH: Pwhooohh! Yuck! What did you do to him!! Me: Yuckss euww...nothing...he did it himself la!

It's 2a.m.

Me: Quick! quick! Get me a plastic bag and a bin! Oh my goodness! (Sorry bub, I couldn't help but burst out into laughter at this point)

I unwrap his nappy to be greeted by sticky, slimy, green B.O. And oh MY GOODNESS the smell. If anyone ever wondered what baby shit smelt like, it's just like yours. No different.

So I remove his nappy with the intentions of changing it ASAP. But this boy had other intentions.

With his tiny butt exposed to cold air, the B.O kept comin'. Yep, it sure did. Lots more liquidy, sticky, smelly poo oozing out of the LFM.

Me: Help!! EEEKK!!

The rest is up to your imagination. The room had to be aired, the change table disinfected, and the rubbish thrown out immediately.

Poohhh...now breathe in...breathe out...

Just to end this entry on a not so shitty note...

I couldn't help but burst into laughter when relatives came over and said,

"I want to rub egg on your baby"

I laughed till I cried, I have never ever, heard something so funny and random. Apparently it is good to dispel wind in the baby.

What is it like...?

2009-08-23T17:02:00.002+08:00

Just a few months ago, when life wasn't that complicated (in a good way), I was asked 'what's it like to have a baby in your body?'

Now, when life is oh-so-dramatic and much more complicated than complicated can be, friends start wondering, 'what's it like to be a mother?' Or should they perhaps be asking, 'What's it like to be a new, clueless, young mother?'

With my hands nearly drying out from washing and diaper-changing and my brain deep fried in bub's cries, I snatch a minute to ponder upon how life has changed.

Too bad I can't write any longer than I intend to, in a minute the house will be filled with melodious sounds from a tiny set of lungs- so powerful it saps all the energy off two grown adults. Oh wait- here he goes...

(15minutes later)

After a whole morning of being unsettled and crying his lungs out, we decide to bathe him to see if it helps settle him. But this time, we are both at our wits' end and I could feel a headache coming on. The bath helped but then by the time he finished his bath, it was time to be hungry again so he starts belting out his hunger cries. Then comes the cries for burping, this guy eats so fast he swallows a lot of air.

Half an hour later he is more settled so we place him in a baby rocker on the floor. It's only as high as four or five inches above the ground, so it is easliy accessible to the dog.

Curious Java comes up to bub to have a peek.

"Hi Java, look at baby but don't disturb him," I try to be as loving to Java as possible to avoid jealousy. She didn't seem to have a problem. The tail wagged a little and she sniffed his tiny head.

And then...

"Achooo!!!"

Java sneezed all over bub.

Noooooo.....

We looked at each other's exhausted faces and panda eyes then at the dog and the baby on the floor.

Sigh.

No one dared say anything!

So with Java's sneeze droplets on him and two adults flat out on the couch, bub slips away into a world of sweet dreams as if nothing ever happened...

G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S

2009-08-17T16:13:00.003+08:00

It's a cold Monday afternoon and I'm trying to take a much needed nap.

Soon enough....

"Waaaaaa! Eeeiuuuaaaakkkk!!!"

Oh no. Little Farting Machine is at it again. I turn over wishing I could sleep just a few seconds more. No luck. The cries get louder, to the point where LFM's face becomes all red and looks as if his nose was about to pop out of his face.

It's feeding time.

Even Java gets a little worried- she tosses and turns in her daybed outside- then as LFM's cries get louder, her ears perk up and she does her little "I have to check this out!" worried dance at the door, wanting to be let in. So I let her in to show her it's all O.K.

After a hearty milk meal, he settles a little better and I put him back down onto the sofa where we were once peacefully napping before his sudden burst of hunger.

As soon as I sit down to 'relax' - a foreign, faraway luxury these days and probably for a long time after...

"Ding..Dong..!"

Relatives appear at my doorstep with the best of intentions.

So I hurry to shoo the dog out before attending to the door- scruffy hair, ugly home clothes and all.

"Hi! Is he awake?"

"No, he's just had his feed so he's sleeping,"

"Oooo we just wanna have a peep! Do you want your laundry done at the same time?"

So they step in and look at him in anticipation of the Great Awakening. Nothing. He is lost in dreamland.

"Wow he is so good, he is so peaceful and so quiet, look at him! So calm and collected..."

Yeah. If only they had been here just two minutes earlier they would get the full LFM experience.

Welcome to Motherhood, a glamorous round-the-clock job.

Actually, it's more of a 24/7 privilege and a lifetime of blessings.

Depends how you look at it...

Every Smile Counts

2009-08-16T14:00:00.001+08:00

He's a happy chappy!!

Ethan

2009-08-10T13:26:00.001+08:00

I'm a week old!

The Fruit is Ripe

2009-08-01T17:45:00.001+08:00

But we're still waiting for it to fall.

Don't keep us waiting too long!

Unleashing the Mat Preston in Me

2009-07-20T16:01:00.005+08:00

I don't often blog about something not very pleasant to the eye and mind, but today it's going to be different.

Now I am going to spill the beans on the various real-life complaints and experiences I've had and heard with a few popular hawker places and Chinese restaurants all around Perth.

The following hawker places and restaurant(s) will be 'critisized':
Ten Ten Kitchen, Vic Park
Bamboo Hawker place (previously Taurus Hawker), Collins Rd Willetton
Aquarium Chinese Restaurant, Great Eastern Highway
Golden BBQ, Market City Canningvale
Hawker's Cuisine, Northbridge
Easyway Bubble tea, Northbridge
Yummy BBQ, Myaree
Golden Palace, Northbridge (new posh dim sum place)
Ipoh Ho Fun Restaurant, Myaree

On Sunday, F and I had lunch at Ten Ten Restaurant in Vic Park. I must admit I have only been going back to that place recently as rumour has it they have changed hands. Unfortunately, it looked like they really haven't- they perhaps only placed a better mannered woman at the front counter the last time I went.

Foodwise: Ok to average. But one of my friends found flies and insects in her noodles a few years go. I haven't had any mishaps yet.
Service: It's so bad, it put me off going there for nearly a year. The fat woman at the counter who takes your money and shows you to your seats is off-putting, with her grumpy mannerisms and 'I don't care' attitude. Yesterday, we were shooed out of Ten Ten as they were closing: "Nah I give you receipt here bekos we klosing soon" - the woman chucked a piece of paper at our table before I even realised what was going on. No eye contact, no 'excuse me', no 'sorry to interrupt'. And when I had sort of finished my meal, there was still HALF the plate left of food on my plate, a waitress came and snatched my plate away from the table without a word. We were stunned as I could have wanted to eat more or ta pau the rest!

Some places the service is much better although food hygeine is questionable. Bamboo Hawker Restaurant previously Taurus Hawker, has great service to my surprise. All the times I've been there, they were courteous, on time, and very polite for an Asian hawker place. The only let down was I recently heard my friend found a fly in her noodles. I've also seen a few roaches running up and down my table and the walls when they were running Taurus Hawker in the old building. Nevertheless, that place is and was always packed. They have the best ice kacang in Perth so far.

Aquarium Chinese Restaurant, Great Eastern Highway is a shocker. Despite the raving reviews and it's warm ambience, the service just isn't up to scratch. A few weeks ago, 8 of us had dinner there for the first time. We ordered Peking Duck with San Choy Bao. It took the waitress a good 10minutes to individually plate out the 8 serves, and her hands were shaking the whole time. We waited 45minutes for the first dish to come out and it was nearly 9pm before we started on the mains. Then came the San Choy Bao. There was only 6 serves. When asked if there was more coming, the waiter said, "One odar only hafe sisx. Is lie that." Hmm. I think he didn't get the message. And the person who took our orders didn't inform us or ask if we actually wanted 8 serves (obviously did). Then came the sizzling Japanese bean curd which the waitress poured a bowl of bean curd into a sizzling plate on the table. She didn't leave the lid on long enough so the whole dish splattered everywhere and burnt a few of us. I think that sort of sealed the deal on whether we would be back a second time.

Some places are temperamental. Golden BBQ, Market City Canningvale is the closest roast duck place around, so we used to go there often until they increased the price and the service went down the drain. The man who chops the roast duck doesn't know English so Asian-looking people who don't speak his language get treated real bad. We went there for dinner once and had decided we would have roast duck rice x 2, so we ordered upon entering the restaurant. His response was "NO." Shook his head, looked down at the floor and walked away. Then the woman beside him explained it was no longer an option for dinner. And I'm sure they even recognized us as regulars. A year ago, I went there with a friend during a busy time and we stood there for 15minutes being ignored. Then my friend decided to belt out her Canto speaking skills, and the ice-cold duck chopper became Mr Warm and Friendly. He replied in Canto, "haiyah, you only stand there how do I know what you want!" Luckily my frirend is patient and played along as a joke. Oh dear! Is that any way of treating your customers?

Hawker's Cuisine, Northbridge has great food but is pretty expensive. Sometimes the service is good, sometimes it is nothing less than shocking especially if they are under a lot of pressure later into the night. Go early and you will have a very enjoyable meal. One of my fav places so far although I am not a big fan of hawker dinners.

Easyway Bubble tea, Northbridge- I never go there for two reasons: F found a clearly visible cockroach in her bubble tea a few years ago, and the fat man there has zero manners. I was in Northbridge with a group of friends, half of them decided on Utopia (just round the corner) and two of us wanted Easyway for a change. Bad decision. We had trouble deciding what to have as it was all new to us, so we let the couple behind us go first. It was near closing time, but still about 20minutes away. By the time the other couple had ordered, it was our turn. Or so we thought. "We don't take anymore orders now." The fat man switched off the till and walked away. Enough said! He even witnessed us walking into his shop and giving our place to the people behind us. I have never been back since.

Yummy BBQ, Myaree. Food is average, service is good depending on who you get. The trolley woman is usually very moody but if you don't mind it then it's probably worth a trip.

Golden Palace, Northbridge (new posh dim sum place). I've been there once, and noticed really bad behaviour among staff. I think it's probably only the girl (or is it a guy?) that served us. She/he also made no eye contact, didn't say a word when we ordered some dim sum dishes from the kitchen (she/he just disappeared and our dishes arrived late) and didn't understand what Chrysanthemum tea meant. On top of that, she/he was fooling around with all the other waiters even to the extent of screaming. Having said that, the food is super, ambience excellent, and I love the setup of the whole place including the cool unconventional chopsticks.

Ipoh Ho Fun Restaurant, Myaree. The best hawker restaurant in my books so far. Although the waiters and waitresses are not clad in uniforms or aren't exactly the most refined sometimes, they are sincere, polite, and the lady boss has all the manners in the world. We are always greeted with a warm aunty-smile and the food is always a delight. Besides, I can always sneak in to get some bubble tea next door after a meal! Only disappointment is that I heard they will be moving to the Eastern States in September if all goes well for them.

Have you had any 'fun' experiences at these places?

Baking! Cooking!

2009-07-17T17:48:00.003+08:00

Oh my gosh I just found this recipe website with so many recipes of yummy food!!

These are by Marianne 49, she looks like someone who really knows how to cook.

Wish I could try them all!!

The 650 pound virgin

2009-07-13T15:39:00.003+08:00

Here's David Smith. He lost 410 pounds in 26months under a personal trainer. No surgery, no fad diets. Just hard work!

They Do Know

2009-07-10T17:44:00.004+08:00

Sure they do.

They know when something's about to happen, they sense it better than anyone else.

Just the little things, from following you everywhere you go, being extra sticky and sensitive to everything you say,

to the more obvious like checking on you because you're taking a longer than usual shower or coming in every few minutes to the computer room when the house seems a little to quiet.

Somehow a new sensitivity develops, the doe-eyed loving look they give you says it all.

All of a sudden out of no where, they come up and sit right in front of you and look at you as if to say, " Are you alright?" They sit for minutes just staring at you lovingly as you continue doing what you do best at this stage- sit on the couch and watch television. And then your heart melts.

Love emits from every molecule of your soul, leaving you to wonder: "What did I do to deserve such treatment?" The answer is incomprehensible: Nothing. Nothing at all.

It is a special loving bond only the generosity of a dog's heart can give.

An animal capable of so much from the heart has taught mankind more than they ever imagined. Love, respect, loyalty, and ultimate companionship above all the other little funny moments and tough ones too.

I love my Java. I don't know where I'd be without her.

At 38 weeks, I am still pretty mobile despite the breathlessness and aches. Sometimes I get told off by family and friends for being too active! Anytime now, anytime!

Java has promised to babysit.

Favourite Children's Shows

2009-07-07T10:05:00.007+08:00

There aren't many children's shows that appeal to me these days. Probably because I am no longer a little child (obviously)or the quality of children's shows and cartoons have drastically decreased. Teletubbies annoy me to no end, the Wiggles are a little too weird and rather lame for my liking, and Fat Cat reminds me too much of the Malaysian copycat ALONG (I couldn't even find a picture of Si Along).

The best memories of childhood tv lies with Sesame Street, Lamb Chop, and a storyteller called Shirley Duvall or something. Not many people have heard of Shirley Duvall, and I don't even know if I have her surname right. All I remember is this woman on tv with long hair saying 'Hi. I'm Shirley Duvall." and she strokes a horse or something like that before or after every show.

I loved Kermit the Frog, Bert and Ernie, but I thought Cookie Monster and Oscar were a little bit disgusting. That was when I was a little tot, but now I love 'em all! Except maybe Elmo who is a little bit over-commercialised.

Kermit the Frog and Lamp Chop (taken from Lamb Chop's website)

Now to the not-so-innocent programs I used to watch:
Transformers, Blue, the Earth Child (which was just so wrong) - a blue boy robot on a surf board or something..., Thundercats, Conan the Barbarian, He-Man (which I thought was so too male- like in other words chauvanistic) and Dinosaucers!! And who could forget Inspector Gadget?

Saber Rider and the Star Sheriffs

Thunder thunder thunder...thundercatss!! This is exactly how I remember it...!

And who can forget- Bravestarr!! Oh my this video brings back sooo many memories!

GI Joe is there...! I wasn't very happy when a GI Jane surfaced.

He-Man! I used to make fun of this one because it was just so funny!

And what about Gaban....dear old Gaban

And Baja Hitam at 4pm every Monday? I used to watch it before going to Brownies!

You'd think a little girl would have grown up watching My Little Pony, CareBears and other girly cartoons which I don't recall any- but this is the result of having two wonderful brothers and a love for action. I must admit I didnt' have any ponies or carebears growing up- but we did have lots of transformer toys and the whole set of Thundercats!

And just for laughs, here is the Malaysian version of batman. One cartoon we made fun and laughed till we had stitches:

Enjoy!

Juno

2009-07-01T18:44:00.003+08:00

I went window shopping today. Oh all the sales! WHY!! It felt weird walking into my usual fav stores and browsing through the latest styles and fashion, wondering what size I'd fit into after I get back into shape. It's as if I didn't belong in the store or sections of the store, sort of the feeling you get when you walk into perhaps a hardware shop or a computer shop (for non-literates like me).

After having some 'me' time coffee I headed to the Diva store. Just to see if there was something I really liked so then I would have some excuse to 'shop'. But to my disappointment I didn't feel worthy enough yet to buy any fake jewelery. I caught one of the salesgirls looking towards my direction- you know how sometimes you just feel someone is looking at you and when you look towards their direction they are actually really looking at you? Yeah, it was one of those. She quickly pretended she was minding the shop instead.

Then as I approached the counter to check out the discounts nearby, I overheard her say to the other girl (I was out of sight as their their backs were facing me):

" Have you watched Juno?"

Enough said! I switched off and smiled to myself before coyly walking out of the store.

Sensitivity has reached a whole new level. It was a huge compliment!!

This is so not young looking. But I really love and appreciate F, who came up with the idea of taking photos together in her brother's home made studio.

Big muaks to you!

I Want To Make

2009-06-27T19:54:00.004+08:00

These!!

Just found a website with a recipe for these mooncakes!

It includes 'you tiau' or Deep fried Chinese Donut recipes too!

It's called Angie's Recipes.

Can You Wear ONE Dress in 365 Days?

2009-06-25T19:09:00.004+08:00

I stumbled upon this very interesting website today.

Given the state of my mental capacity, I can't remember how I came to view this blog.

It's called the Uniform Project, inspired by school uniforms and for a good cause- to fund education in Mumbai and Pune in India.

Two examples of the versatility of her 'uniform':

New Discovery

2009-06-23T17:16:00.002+08:00

Roast Almonds are heavenly.

A touch of olive oil and a few sprinkles of salt, in a pre-heated oven at 180C for ~10mins or until they darken slightly.

Enough to convert this nut-hater or should I say ex-nut-hater!

Yummos.

Daily Conversations

2009-06-19T15:50:00.003+08:00

They're getting harder.

As in more effort is needed, without me realising it. At all.

Here's an example of a lovely conversation yesterday.

Me: Hey! Transformers comes out next week right?
H : Yea it does too! *smiles happily, knowing he'll be seeing Megan Fox again in action*
Me: So are we watching it? Let's go watch next Tuesday!
H : Ermm it comes out Wednesday.
Me: Oh, I see.
One minute pause, in which the memory of the conversation gets wiped out completely.

Me: Hey Transformers comes out next week right?
H : Huh?! I don't want to talk to you anymore!

I honestly didn't remember that we just talked about Transformers, and I swear I didn't realise what I had just asked then!

Brain cells are depleting. Big time! This is a serious case of preg brain.

Lesson: Don't take preg women seriously. We don't know what we're saying most of the time!

Shopping

2009-06-11T09:53:00.003+08:00

I love shopping. I love looking at pretty things, I love matching this with that, and coming up with an outfit. I love looking at online catalogs and drooling over them, I love observing what other people wear.

But at the moment there is just one main problem- me.

I have been out 'shopping' the past two weeks and checking out the EOFYS and guess what I got for me? Nothing at first, but then I decided to get 2 black cardigans on sale from Portmans. One had a tie in the front, so it would be ideal for this moment. The other was just another expensive cardi down to $20 from $70. There are sales everywhere, and that hand is itching to spend the well-preserved money that is nearly worthy of framing up in the living room. In the end, H got a wardrobe makeover much to his delight. At least he got to spend the money that seemed so rightfully mine.

I'm getting more used to it now. It used to be "wow! Look at that top! I could wear it with my skinny jeans, or a high-waisted shorter skirt and some pumps," or " Ooh! Let me just try this one on for fun," or "Wow look at those heels! Does it come in my size?"

Then, it was more like "I'll just go into this shop anyway, and see what I can fit into!" and "Oh oh! That looks awesome! Let me just try it...wait..I CAN'T try it on because it's too small, too tight, and doesn't fit around the right places anymore..."

NOW, it's "Nope I can't buy that. By the time I am able to wear it, it may have gone out of style,"
or "Oh."

Girls, get ready to shop like a man. Or a boy. You will no longer be able to afford (not moneywise) going into a fashion shop. No more Forever New, Sportsgirl, Miss Shop. And Target, Kmart and BigW is set to be your best friend for a year. When you go in, all you want is some thing that fits. Or if you're like me, you want something that fits and doesn't make you look like a watermelon although there isn't such a thing. And you won't even be bothered to wear accessories because you don't fancy having to take the extra trouble to remove them at the end of the day when all you want to do is put your feet up and sip hot tea.

This will last until the day you get your body back. Which, I have heard, takes a minimum of six months after the baby is out. And then, you can't wear a bikini anymore so girls please wear them now. I can tell you I secretly have a stripey red one carefully tucked away in my wardrobe- because I'll never ever get to wear it.

And to imagine how much our mothers had to give up just to bring us into this world. Not being able to shop as they please is only one of the tiniest sacrifices, there is much much more to it and for that I am eternally grateful. Can't wait for the day a high heeled shoe finds its way to my feet!

Nursery Rhymes- a Crime?

2009-06-10T09:26:00.005+08:00

Anyone remember their nursery rhymes?

Like Hey Diddle Diddle, Pussycat pussycat, Jack and Jill, Rock a bye baby...

Ever wondered what they really mean and where they originated from?

I did some reading and found this many controversial opinions on how the rhymes first came about. However I don't necessarily believe them as there is no evidence on the internet...

London Bridge
Some have related it to the destruction of London Bridge in 1014 by Olaf II of Norway.
Others have speculated that it relates to the burying of live children in the foundations of the bridge!

Rock a bye baby

Enough said! I wouldn't wish that on anyone.

Mary Mary quite contrary
Mary, Mary, quite contrary,
How does your garden grow?
With silver bells, and cockle shells,
And pretty maids all in a row

There are several religious interpretations, I can't really be bothered to type them all out.

My most favourite children's stories of all time are/is Aesop's fables. The guy's a genius.
Read and find out why!

Another genius is Charles Dickens. I didn't know he was mostly self-educated!

Having said all that, I probably wouldn't go out of my way to stop my children from nursery rhymes. There are much more disturbing games out there these days especially ones on the computer that are dedicated to killing innocent bystanders (I won't mention what the game is called). And I guess there has never been reports of crime due to nursery rhymes.

Things my Grandfather Taught Me

2009-06-07T22:37:00.003+08:00

Grandad has been watching us from above for nearly a decade now.

I wish I got to know him better, but his health didn't allow any of that.

So memories I have of him are vague and old, and probably only from early childhood.

I loved grandad although he was very strict. His home office smelled of old paper, and he had a huge collection of Reader's Digest from the 50's and I don't know if they went earlier than that.

He had a whole collection of the originals of Archie's comics from way back and we used to love reading them when we went to visit him and grandma. He was a collector of vintage (now they seem vintage) items and we used to love going through all his things, of course, with his permission.

Grandad was strict alright. And you couldn't find a man who valued manners more than grandad. I only remember a few, but as a young child I was a little afraid of grandad when he put on his stern face.

No elbows on the table.
Butter your bread in one direction.
Read the newspaper properly, put it back the way you found it (which is most likely perfectly placed on an appropriate table)
No talking when your mouth is full.
Hold your eating utensils correctly.
No shouting and running around (although we did lots of this)

The first time we were exposed to monopoly as kids was in the 80's, although I have a feeling grandad's monopoly set was from the 60's or 70's. I clearly remember loving the iron and the soctty dog! No one wanted to be the thimble as we thought it was just for grandmas.

All I know about grandad is that he worked for the British during the war and he always wore well-tailored suits in photographs of him from the early 1900s ( I think). He even had a cigar or two in his office drawer! He spoke perfect English so it was easy to talk to us as kids. He was a leftie and I'm glad I inherit one of his traits. He was probably a perfectionist too, judging by his home office and family portraits. He loved the glutinous rice + raisins pudding my grandma used to make, and that was my favourite too!

He had a dog that bit people, only because it was so protective of its owners and didn't like us kids running and shouting about. He also had a cat, Bambino, who scratched my eye when I tried to disturb it (serve me right!). I swear it was the evilest cat I'd ever known! However I still love cats to bits probably because it reminds me of grandad and grandma. Actually ALL my cousins are cat-crazy! Hmm now there's a thought.

I so wish I knew more about grandad and wish his early health problems didn't take him away from us so early.

So from here, I know the importance of grandparents to grandchildren- it's a beautiful blessing each child needs to experience. Nothing else can ever fill that void, that little space in our hearts filled with love and a yearning to love and be loved by a grandparent.

The Class

2009-06-07T09:21:00.002+08:00

Panicking, I drove round and round the hospital looking for parking. Street parking was max 2 hours, and hospital parking was on the other side of the hospital which was further away from the House. And I was running late! I then thought of a clever idea- to park at the Obstetrician's office. Aha! Free, safe, and there was no one there! yipee!

Everyone was greeted by a young lady at the door, whom I thought would be a receptionist of some sort. She was young, pleasant, sweet, and thin (not that that matters), and greeted us with a chirpy smile and ticked off our names from her chart.

I entered the room feeling a little awkward. Everyone else was with their partners/husbands, except me. H had come down with a last minute cold and didn't want to infect all the other preg women in the room (yeah right!). Scanning the room for a good place to nestle in for the day, I felt like a new student who tried to fit in with the rest of the class. Then I spotted the perfect place- right at the back in a quiet little corner. There were three empty seats between two couples, so I had the choice of sitting next to one couple or the other or right in the middle of the three seats.

"Is anyone here?" I pointed to the seat next to a pleasant looking young woman, S.
"Oh, no, oops I better move my bags!"
"Hi, I'm R."
" Hi! I'm S. Nice to meet you," she said with a lovely, welcoming smile. "And this is C," her husband.
"Now is your partner really down with the flu?" C's head popped out of nowhere and he gave me a wink.
"Well, yea he does....we've paid and everything but he didn't want to infect everyone else here," I tried to keep straight face although he could probably tell I was a little disappointed.
"Damn! I should've used that excuse, " C said cheekily. We both laughed and then waited for the class to start.

S and C were from country WA, they lived 2 hours away from the hospital. Absolutely lovely, S was only my size- I was SO glad someone was at last as big/small as me!! And no, she's no where near Asian.

"Hello everybody, my name is Z, and this is J. We're midwives, and we will be taking this class today," the bubbly, smiley, happy 'receptionist' started the class as if she was bursting into song. Oh! I didn't know midwives could be so young. And she had been one for about a decade! She looked in her early thirties at the most. Hmm...this would be an interesting day.

"Alright. Now, this is what your baby looks like at 29weeks. It's only 1kg, I just weighed this doll, but it feels pretty heavy," She passed a replica of a 29week old baby around the class. It was really heavy for a small thing indeed! We were all surprised. Then she went on the talk about the positions of the baby eg. breech, or whatever other positions the baby can be in. It was quite graphic, the descriptions, but the tone of her voice and her smiley face evened it all out.

Then she went on to explain the comfortable positions to be in for the labouring mother. They provide beanbags and fitballs in the labour wards! I never knew a beanbag or a fitball would come in this handy. And we were also told on when to call the hospital to come in to deliver, and how the midwives could tell what stage of labour we were in just by the sound of our voices over the phone.

"Lets move on to....the PLACENTA!" she exclaimed with such excitement and joy I nearly fell for it and got excited myself. She pulled out a model of a placenta made from cloth (it almost looked like a cushion) which had an 'umbilical chord' attached to it.

"So, this is the baby's lifeline. If they find the chord sticking out before the baby is born, it's a Caeser. If the chord is cut, the baby's lifeline is gone. But it's ok once the baby is out because it can breathe on it's own and support it's own life. ok?"

"Sometimes, the guys faint because when the midwives say 'push!' or 'breathe in and out now' to the women, the guys end up holding their breaths for too long and breathing in and out for too long so they fall over. Make sure you know you're not the one pushing, its your partner!"

Then I noticed some tension at the far end of the room. Two couples were sending out stress signals but no one seemed to notice. Z continued chirping on with her placenta model and didn't see what was going on. A husband was slumped over in his chair, his wife trying to wake him up by tapping him on the shoulder. Then she shoved him. But no response. He was still slumped over. Pale and slumped. For a moment I thought we might have lost the guy, he seemed so lifeless and a sick feeling passed through my bones.

"Err...excuse me excuse me..." the wife tried to sound calm as she called out to Z to pause the class.
" Are you okay?" Z came around next to him.
No response.
A minute or so later, he took in two big, heavy breaths as if life had just found its way back into his soul.
"Huh...wha..? Oh..sorry.." it seemed he didn't know what just happened.
Phew! Everyone in the class could breathe again. The other couple sitting right next to him looked like they just saw a ghost. I was glad and thanking God that he was alright for now. So off he went, to rest and later home. His wife of course, continued the class. So that made two of us.

Actually there was three of us. A 48-year old woman showed up late and she was 33 weeks pregnant! Her voice was rough, she had piercings in her ears and gold chains and bangles clanging against each other. She looked rather uncomfortable and unnatural and it turned out she was terrified of giving birth. Who would'nt be at 48?

The day went on smoothly with a tour of the labour rooms, the birthing suite which looked like a hotel room but only for 100% natural smooth labours (which is why it is always empty and we could have a look at it), neonatal ward, and post delivery rooms. A very compact and neat hospital indeed, but I could imagine becoming claustraphobic in no time. We were to stay at least four nights after giving birth, and the midwives explained how emotionally and physically draining it would be for the both of us.

When I think midwife, I used to picture a middle aged post menopausal grumpy woman who was imposing and dominating. But these two midwives changed my perspective completely! Just based on the things they said and how passionate they were about babies, I now have a renewed mindset on what midwives can be like. Even the way Z was holding the baby doll showed she cared for babies although it was only a doll. They didnt' take sides, didn't impose anything on us and gave us both sides of the story for every single question we had.

The Class was definitely worth it, it cleared up some misconceptions and I am now more prepared for the big day. However, I am still terrified of the fact that a human being is supposed to come out from inside of me and the changes that follow. With six weeks to go, the level of discomfort is rising each day. And I still wish babies grew on trees.

Suddenly Old

2009-06-04T17:49:00.006+08:00

All of a sudden, 21 seems so far away.

I love working with students at work and they are getting younger and younger. Actually, I am not getting any younger. Boo hoo. However some 21 year olds are quite mature, but some are just so so young! I remember by 21 I had to do everything myself, from budgeting to paying bills to washing, cleaning and cooking. Hmm that just made me even older. I know how I used to dread it when my mom said things like, 'well, when I was 21, I did this and that...we had no computer...bla bla...'

Now I know what she meant!

However old I am or will be, one thing I will never understand is Chinese superstitions and some traditions. They are insulting, silly, and very unnecessary. Growing up in a family that holds no superstitions and traditions whatsoever, coming to Australia gave me a huge culture shock (yes, believe it) nine years ago. When I moved in with 7 other Chinese girls from Malaysia, some of which were strong believers of superstition. Oh my goodness, I was in for such a huge shock! I had never been exposed to superstitions and the like and I remember being seriously told off for doing something like stirring a hot drink because it will 'make me dizzy'. I remember housemates moving out 3am to avoid bad luck. Oh dear...poor things.

What is the value of Chinese superstitions in our society today? What is the point of superstitions when so logically, sweeping the floor on a specific day (ie. One of the days in CNY- I'm not sure which one/s) will not make any difference? How can dust bring you bad luck, I have no idea. It's just dust. Will having a jade replica of a wombok (Chinese vegetable) bring good luck when placed in an office window in a certain position? Logically, I certainly think not. What would make someone think it would anyway? Would getting in a Feng Shui master to design your house make you any happier or richer? Logically, no. If it did, everybody would be happy and rich and there will be no economic crisis now. Will having someone's little boy pee on your wedding bed make your firstborn a boy? It's so ridiculous it's laughable. God gives you what He wants to give.

Why be bonded by bogus claims and beliefs when life can be much simpler and happier without them? Yep, surprisingly coming to Australia has opened my eyes to Chinese customs and traditions, which has been nearly non-existent in my life until recently. Truth be told, I somehow just can't get my head around some of the beliefs. What drives superstitions and beliefs? I would love to find out one day.

Having said all that, I totally respect the fact that some people choose to believe in superstitions. I am not condemming anyone- I am simply being vocal about what I think :O On the other hand, it's enriching to know of Chinese customs and some traditions- and I have a long way to go in that area.

I remember grandma telling me 'it's unecessary stress' when I was younger. Surprised? I am too. Even grandma doesn't believe them.

However strongly I feel about not believing in bogusness, it's probably a good thing to know of Chinese superstition for some amusement and general knowledge. Other than that, I really cannot come to terms with superstitions. I find it insulting, uneccessary and painstaking. I cant' help it!

Favourite Me Things

2009-06-01T19:22:00.006+08:00

Body Shop Body Butters- especially strawberry and peach. The only type of body butter/cream/lotion that keeps eczema at bay for me. Perfect texture, absolutely marvelous smelling, and it feels so good on. It always makes my day!

If you're like me and don't like the feeling of lots of things on your face (makeupwise), try Rimmel Hydrasense foundation. It gives a slight coverage and a natural radiance and is not oily at all. It feels like there's no foundation on actually.

Estee Lauder long wearing and signature lipsticks -very long wearing, they don't cake up or crack when applied on. I put a layer of Lucas' Paw Paw ointment over the lipstick if my lips are dry. For extra shine at night, I love Estee Lauder's lipgloss when used over the lipsticks. They make an excellent match!

Eyebrow pencil - Rimmel Kohl pencil. Mine has lasted for more than 2 years...time to look for a 'new' one! It has served me marvelously, but I would like to try something else for a change.
Bobby Brown gel eyeliners- the bestest best eyeliner! I've tried so many brands- Maybeline, Rimmel, Almay, Estee Lauder just to name a few-nothing beats Bobby Brown! Remember to buy the brush too, it is well worth it otherwise you may not get to enjoy the full eyeliner experience :P

Body Shop concealers- they seem to be slightly moisturising too. I use it under the Rimmel Foundation. Not a fan of concealers but these ones look so natural I use them occasionally (very).

Best blushers in the world - again, Estee Lauder!

Other brands I've used in the past:
Lancome long wearing lipstick and gloss- not a fan at all. Smells funny and feels like there's something stuck to your lips! This put me off Lancome products altogether. I think it's for older women actually.
Maybeline lipstick, eyeshadow, lipgloss, eyeliner - all I can say is you get what you pay for. Although the juicy lipgloss is actually quite fantastic.
Maybelline cream blush, bronzer - not a great fan of cream blushes
Maybelline Foundation (similar to Rimmel)- comparable!
Estee Lauder cream Foundation - a bit heavier than Rimmel, excellent on but I prefer a lighter foundation ie. Rimmel
BodyShop eyeshadows- a bit too sparkly for my liking, the colours don't come out as strong as Estee Lauders'.
Estee Lauder eye liner - they smudge although it claims not to. Will end up with panda eyes!
Rimmel eyeshadows - Really not a fan. They feel cheap and don't stay on for long.

I've yet to try the other brands such as Clinique, Christian Dior, Kanebo, etc. etc... I may treat myself to one or two items after having done the most difficult thing ever- pushing bub out!

Final Moments of Freedom

2009-05-30T15:04:00.004+08:00

She even came prepared! My mandarin has taken 10 steps back. I have no idea what these mean even with pinyin.

Drinks, one of which managed to spill all over my clothes.

Unattached no-worries night out: you will be sorely missed.

Single am I no more.

Take a Break from Studying!

2009-05-29T21:25:00.002+08:00

Here's a refreshing song by Paul Baloche:

What Can I Do

Paul Baloche, Graham Kendrick

Comments: Capo 1

Intro:
G  C  G  Em7  C  G/B  Dsus  D
Em7  C  G/B  Dsus  D  G

Verse 1:
              Am7                 G/B
When I see the beauty of a sunset's glory,

        C(add9)                     D(add4)
amazing artistry across the evening sky
               Am7                  G/B
When I feel the mystery of a distant galaxy
           Cmaj7             Am   Am7/G
It awes and humbles me to be loved
           D/F#  Em7  D
by a God so high

Chorus:
          G      C     G
What can I do but thank You,
Em7                 C               G
what can I do but give my life to You
      Dsus  D Em7     C
Halle- lu- jah, hallelujah
          G      Am7    G
What can I do but praise You,
Em7            C              G      Dsus D
everyday make everything I do a hallelu - jah
Em7    C    G/B    Dsus D G
A hallelujah, hallelu - jah
(last chorus play: G  C  G  Em7  C  G  Dsus  D  Em7  C  G)


Verse 2:
               Am7               G/B
When I hear the story of a God of mercy
            C(add9)                   D(add4)
Who shared humanity and suffered by our side
                 Am7                           G/B
Of the cross they nailed You to, that could not hold You
                 Cmaj7                 Am   Am7/G
Now You're making all things new by the power
             D/F#  Em7  D
of Your risen life


Other:
Em7  C  G  D  Em7  C  G  Dsus  D
(jah)

Chords from higherpraise.com

Swine has reached WA

2009-05-25T16:49:00.002+08:00

Yes...one case confirmed today.

I received an updated from the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) today too.

Here, it may clear up some questions about Swine flu in Australia.

" The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that as of 23 May 2009, 43 countries had officially reported 12,022 cases of swine influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 86 deaths.

As of noon on Monday 25 May 2009, there were 18 confirmed cases and 40 suspected cases in Australia.

Australia has raised its pandemic response phase from DELAY to CONTAIN, based on the evidence that the infection has spread in Australia.

The Federal Department of Health and Ageing advises that it is likely the development of a pandemic will move through a number of different phases as the virus becomes more adept at infecting humans, and spreads around the globe.

WHO has a set of pandemic phases (the Swine Influenza phase is currently Phase 5 on the six-phase scale) and while Australia uses the same numbering system as WHO to describe each phase, the Australian pandemic phases are designed to describe the situation in Australia and to guide Australia's response.

Thus, the Australian and the WHO phase may not always be the same.
Having an Australian system means that actions can be taken in Australia before a change of phase is declared by the WHO.
The Australian phases are:

ALERT - A novel virus with pandemic potential causes severe disease in humans who have had contact with infected animals.There is no effective transmission between humans.Novel virus has not arrived in Australia.

DELAY - Novel virus has not arrived in Australia.OS4 Small cluster of cases in one country overseas.OS5 Large cluster(s) of cases in only one or two countries overseas.OS6 Large cluster(s) of cases in more than two countries overseas.

CONTAIN - Pandemic virus has arrived in Australia causing small number of cases and/or small number of clusters.

1. SUSTAIN - 2. Pandemic virus is established in Australia and spreading in the community.
CONTROL - Customised pandemic vaccine widely available and is beginning to bring the pandemic under control.
RECOVER - Pandemic controlled in Australia but further waves may occur if the virus drifts and/or is re-imported into Australia.

Despite the heightened status, the effects of swine influenza on those who are infected do not appear to be as severe as was initially feared. The vast majority of those confirmed to have swine influenza are treated at home and only a small percentage require hospitalisation. Evidence of human-to-human transmission usually seems to result in a milder form of flu symptoms than other strains of influenza.

SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of swine influenza are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include: ·
fever
cough
sore throat
body aches
headache
chills
tiredness/fatigue

POTENTIAL RISKS AND SERIOUS COMPLICATIONS OF FLU
bacterial pneumonia
dehydration
worsening of chronic medical conditions
ear infections
sinus problems

PROTECTION AGAINST INFECTION
No vaccine available against swine influenza

Antiviral treatments may be helpful, however consumers should be advised to consult their medical practitioner who is the prescribing authority.

In some cases, medical practitioners may prescribe antiviral treatments as a precautionary measure to people travelling overseas.
The spread of Swine Flu is thought to be happening the way that seasonal flu spreads – mainly person-to-person through coughing, sneezing or coming into contact with an infected person. At present the mortality rate at 2 per cent is similar to that of seasonal influenza.

According to the World Health Organisation, swine influenza “has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and prepared pork (pig meat) or other products derived from pigs. The influenza A(H1N1) virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160°F/70°C, corresponding to the general guidance for the preparation of pork and other meat.”

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE IS ILL WITH FLU
Designate one person as the care giver.
Keep everyone’s personal items separate.
All household members should avoid sharing pens, papers, clothes, towels, sheets, blankets, food or eating utensils unless cleaned between uses.
Disinfect doorknobs, switches, handles, computers, telephones, toys and other surfaces that are commonly touched around the home or workplace.
Wash everyone’s dishes in the dishwasher or by hand using very hot water and soap.
Wash everyone’s clothes in a standard washing machine as you normally would.
Use detergent and very hot water and wash your hands after handling dirty laundry.
Wear disposable gloves when in contact with or cleaning up body fluids."

Hope that helps!

Kuteness Abounds

2009-05-23T09:04:00.006+08:00

Congrats to American Idol Season 8 winner Kris Allen! I am such a huge fan of his voice and his unfathomable cuteness and his humility. One hundred million votes were cast this year, the highest in Idol history. They must really love Kris.

So cute!

And season 7 winner David Cook! Hawwt guy.
I once put 'David Cook!' as my MSN shoutout, and one of my non-english educated friends responded: "Wah so nice, David is cooking for you tonight"
I didn't really know what to say to that but I had to do David justice. So I explained who David Cook really was and that no, he was not cooking for me although the thought was to die for!

Hello there...

David Archuleta is cutesy but a little young for me. hahaha. However, he is just so so super duper talented. Find him on youtube and you'd be like a stunned mullet.

What do these three have in common? A high cute factor, petite stature, and amazing voice talent.

Baby's Things

2009-05-20T17:54:00.003+08:00

Babies are expensive.

But real fun to shop for and to spend on.

Toysrus has the best bargains and has saved us a lot of $$!

Like this Go Safe Terino car seat - we got for around half price:

And this baby rocker down to $54 from $120 or so. It was the last one, and also a sample item, but that wasn't really an issue. So we bought it and I washed it today-it came out brand new, just cleaner, and smelled real good.

Preg brain is really getting the better of me now. Twice I had totally no recollection of where I left my shopping trolley in Woolies...and my grammar, oh dear - don't even start.

A few days ago I wrote an unfinished note to my colleagues and only realised it before I went to bed. And I am 'spaced out' 90% of the time.

Having babies require extra $$, extra bedroom space, extra care, extra food, extra clothes, extra equipment, extra energy, and extra brain space.

But they say nothing can extra prepare you for what's coming next: The extra BABY.

One Fruity Baby

2009-05-18T16:55:00.004+08:00

Cravings have been ok to handle most times, and it's not like

'I have to have this NOW!'
or 'If I don't eat it now, I'll die,'

as some women say.

However, on more than two occasions have I been woken up in the middle of the night by a fruit. A fruit! Of all things. I could just so taste it...that juicy, sweet taste of fruit. The burst of sweet fluid as you bite into it- exhilarating, refreshing, tantalizing...

The worst culprits of sudden midnight-fruit-cravings so far:

I think Baby will be a real fruity One. Better practice some baby fruit recipes!

Times Nearly Up

2009-05-12T22:10:00.005+08:00

At 29weeks, it's all getting heavier.

I feel exactly like this,

Baby is supposed to look like this,

And soon, the only life I knew would be replaced with something bigger and greater.

I was walking my Java with H today, and boy was I finding it so not easy to keep up with their little stroll!

Me: Hey, slow down you guys!

H: Why are you walking so slowly these days...

Me: It's not only me, there's two of us!

H: Doesn't that mean you walk twice as fast? (H said it with a straight face!)

Me: ..... (grrrr!!)

Ok. Imagine walking around with a honeydew tied to your belly. Oh yes, and the honeydew uses your belly as a musical instrument, producing rhythmic drum beats and sudden jerks which startle you anytime of the day or night. And not forgetting the scrapings of your insides, if honeydews can scrape. Or if a honeydew can instruct its seeds to jump around vigorously in your abdomen.

I love my Baby, the 9month mystery.

And I really feel like some honeydew right now.

Who is Christine Teo?

2009-05-10T22:01:00.001+08:00

I was having a lovely lively conversation with a few relatives-in-laws over dinner.

This is why you gotta love the oldies.

"Wahh, you know I getting old already! Skin sagging everywhere. Even got crows feet now ah!"

"Look at you (points at me) wah skin so good, even no eyebags! I think I have to go and do surgery to lift the skin on my face you know! I heard my friend said it costs $4000 oh!"
Other aunty:
"What! Haiyah, $4000 so not worth it la, we are so old already, what for want to look so pretty? If RM3000 or RM4000 is ok to go ahead la,"

"Eh! You know my friend ah, she only use cream to put on her face, no makeup, nothing oh! And her husband shares all her cream and he looks so young. Me ah, I use the one from Kuching, you know Christine Teo? That one the creams sooo good oh! Only cost a few hundred AUD from airport. Christine Teo wah..the BEST! You know or not, Christine Teo! Must follow Christine Teo oh, really very very good oh,"

Huh? Who is this famous Christine Teo? Is she the founder of a new revolutionary anti-ageing skin range? I was trying to picture a middle aged to an older woman but I just couldn't recall anyone except the one from Marie France Bodyline...I think she was an actress? I don't know her name but she's the pettite one who lost weight with some program. Have I been in Australia for too long? Am I so out of touch with things back home? Have I been 'Australianized'?

"And then ah, I also use Kanebo all the time. That one also very good but so much more expensive cost like a few thousand per year for all my facial products!"

And then I realised.

She was talking about CHRISTIAN DIOR.

I Finally Did It!!

2009-05-07T12:03:00.004+08:00

Banana cupcakes

I can graduate from baking school now.

Once thought to be useless at domestic chores, I have now mastered the 'art' of baking!

Together with my pharmacist accuracy in measuring and artistic right-brained natural ability (pfft) I now know how to bake!

As a child the best memories we had with mum was when we baked and cooked together. Something I'd want to pass on to my own children. So in my bid to become a 'good mother', I set a goal: to master baking skills by the end of this 9months of 'incubation'.

So far, with success, I have made cheesecake, Pau, siew mai, banana cake, and 2-layered agar-agar. Nothing fancy but a great accomplishment for a non-domesticated cat like me. Of course, it couldn't be done without my expert wrapper and perfectionist Dear H.

Next feat: Pandan chiffon cake!

Some great websites:
http://gregwee.blogspot.com
http://bakingmum.blogspot.com

Love is in the Air

2009-05-04T17:51:00.002+08:00

I love weddings. Still.

Yesterday was the most lavish wedding I've ever been to. I probably haven't been to many (or any) garden weddings, but it has always been my type of dream wedding.

The weather was perfect, the crowd was great, and I met so so many people that I actually know from all different walks of life. People from church, high school, ex housemates, ex uni-mates and ex-colleagues- they were all there! Although it lasted more than eight hours, it was an absolutely beautiful day.

It's amazing the things you can learn at weddings. For example last night, I learnt that this year is the last year of the 'Golden' animals and some people are desparately trying to NOT have children next year because its the year of the Tiger. Something I probably would never comprehend.

Terrors

2009-05-01T09:46:00.004+08:00

Ok. Let's admit it. Every woman is afraid of labour and child birth. Aren't they?

I can't imagine those who want to go al naturale and give birth without pain relief or any 'medical artificial' help.

The past few weeks, months and years I have been trying to psyche myself into believing it ain't that bad after all. But to no avail.

Blame it on the bread. Yep, a loaf of bread.

I was holding a fresh loaf of Tip Top Up Bread the other day and thinking 'SURELY, a newborn wouldn't be as big as this? This is humungous!!'

H is very comforting. Thanks. Know what he said?

'Of course its much bigger than that, that is only the size of half a baby or a 1.5kg baby.'

SHRIEKK!! How?!

Yesterday a colleague told me how easy it was for her to have her baby. She described contractions as intense pressure, as if someone was rolling a rolling pin real hard on your abdomen. She said to ask for an epidural straight away.

But there are so many stories of being too late in labour and not being able to be administered an epi. Or the risks associated with epis. Or ending up having to be cut open. And by the way, how would you know what stage of labour you are in!? My colleague said she didn't even feel a drop of pain and she said it was a lovely experience. Errr...!!

How I wish I was her.

Having said all that, I can't wait to meet the little one. But with just 12 weeks or so to go, terror is inevitably mounting.

And this is the face of comfort.I love Java.

Virus? or Scam?

2009-04-27T17:24:00.002+08:00

Left my computer on the whole day without realising I was logged into Skype.

When I got home I came back to a lengthy surprise message that read:

Dear X
I have been in search of someone with this last name "X", so when I saw your name I was pushed to contact you and see how best we can assist each other. I am mrs.eva addo,head human resources zenith bank plc. here in GHANA. I believe it is the wish of God for me to come across you on skype now. I am having an important business discussion I wish to share with you which I believe will interest you because, it is in connection with your last name and you are going to benefit from it. One Late Shafi X,a citizen of your country had a fixed deposit with my bank in 2004 for 36 calendar months, valued at US$18,400,000.00 (Eighteen Million, Four Hundred Thousand US Dollars) the due date for this deposit contract was this 16 of January 2007. Sadly Shafi was among the death victims in the May 26 2006 Earthquake disaster in Jawa, Indonesia that killed over 5,000 people.

He was in Indonesia on a business trip and that was how he met his end. My bank management is yet to know about his death, I knew about it because he was my friend and I am his account officer. Shafi did not mention any Next of Kin/ Heir when the account was opened, and he Shafi was not married and no children. Last week my Bank Management requested that should give instructions on what to do about his funds, if to renew the contract.

I know this will happen and that is why I have been looking for a means to handle the situation, because if my Bank Directors happens to know that Shafi is dead and do not have any Heir, they will take the funds for their personal use, so I don't want such to happen. That was why when I saw your last name I was happy and I am now seeking your co-operation to present you as Next of Kin/ Heir to the account, since you have the same last name with him and my bank head quarters will release the account to you. There
is no risk involved; the transaction will be executed under a legitimate arrangement that will protect you from any breach of law.

It is better that we claim the money, than allowing the Bank Directors to take it, they are rich already. I am not a greedy person, so I am suggesting we share the funds equal, 50/50% to both parties, my share will assist me to start my own company which has been my dream. Let me know your mind on this and please do treat this information as TOP SECRET. We shall go over the details once I receive your urgent response strictly through my personal email address,(eva_zenit.ghana@rocketmail.com) or telephone number.(+233-245-446-055)

We can as well discuss this on phone; let me know when you will be available to speak with me on Skype. Have a nice day and God bless.

Anticipating your communication.
mrs. eva addo

Anyone interested in becoming the Shafi's relative?

Sling Baby Sling

2009-04-25T14:52:00.003+08:00

So I've been doing more research on baby things.
How am I going to carry Baby?
In a pram, in a sling, a capsule, or just like that...?

At the moment, these look really practical.

Picture from http://bearhugbaby.com.au/shop

Something like this would be so easy to use, but they cost just over $90. And what if baby grows bigger? Maybe some babies don't like the sling after they get to a certain age, or...? I just have no idea...

Hmm...

Java Turns 2!

2009-04-24T10:51:00.004+08:00

Java turned 2 on 14th April, 2009.

This is a belated post since I've only just managed to upload the photos from her special day!

The Birthday Cake with 2 candles
Happy birthday to you...happy birthday to you...
Birthday prayers?
Java is so happy
Can I blow them now?
Please...?
Birthday girl portraitHappy Birthday my Darling!

Baby Stuff!

2009-04-22T10:05:00.006+08:00

Something for the feet

The first sign of me giving in to temptation- this was too cute not to get!

Basic Bonds- no zip, no buttons just pullover. RRP $17-19, I got them for $7 and $9!

Winter baby

No baby wardrobe is complete without some Malaysian attire from grandma :P

Yeah, Anakku!

Baby has 5 'toys'

My favourite cat rattle toy Next- to get other things for baby :)

Cats

2009-04-17T09:22:00.003+08:00

I LOVE cats.

Love them to no end, I love it when they start purring as soon as you walk into the room,

I love it when they stretch and give you that satisfied small-eyed look and loosen their paws,

I love it when they jump on your lap on a cold day and start curling up,

I love it especially when they meow! How melodic :P

I miss my cats, I miss how Meeko used to hide underneath chairs and stairs and when we all went to sleep, he would meow and meow outside my bedroom door wanting some cuddles. So I let him in and he goes straight for the bed, and starts doing his bread kneading thing with his front paws before cleaning himself and curling up on the bed. As the night progresses, I miss how he would slowly and sneakily move from being at my feet, to being right next to my face and sometimes above my head! He loved head pillows.

Then, if he wanted to be let out or if he felt to cold because of the air-cond, he would start gnawing at me. hmmm. Not very pleasant. So I let him out through the window onto the roof.

If he didnt' get his way, ie. wasn't able to sneak into the house before bedtime, one would find melodious mewing outside one's window at 2am. It would not stop, then one would hear attempts of an agile animal jumping up at the window trying to cling onto the window sill (nearly impossible). So one would wake up at 2am, let the little kitty in and cuddle him to sleep.

And when I left for overseas, he still meowed outside my bedroom. He still tried his best to sneak onto my bed and slept there all by himself.

Why do I suddenly think back and miss my dear 12year old cat Meeko?

Harmonious (not!) catty sounds the past 2 weeks outside my window brought back memories of being pleasantly woken up by my precious cat. Except it wasn't my cat and it wasn't exactly pleasant.

You see, the neighbour on the right has a black fluffy cat, the one on the right has a white fluffy cat. I catch them playing in my frontyard (on separate occasions) and some nights I hear cat bells ringing outside my window.

The sounds of "MEOOWWRRR!! RRMEEOWWRRR!!" and "PFFTTT PFFFT!!!" pierce the silence of the night that was so tranquil and perfect for sleeping. Black Fluffy and White Fluffy fighting for territory over my front yard. Then Java starts barking. Which makes the night even less peaceful. She barks and barks ever so loudly, it echoes throughout the house.

Once I heard a "MEOORWRRRWW!!" followed by a loud thud, I think kitty was up on the roof and lost its footing somewhere. That was the last time kitty ever thought of playing on the roof!

Sometimes the catfights would wake me up middle of the night and I find myself laughing so hard I can't get back to sleep.

Did I tell you I nearly really adopted a white cat who was deaf? It had the most beautiful eyes and stunning cute face, and had been in the cat shelter for ages. I would never forget the look it gave me.

Yeah, I LOVE cats but am going a bit insane from lack of quality sleep. Somehow it's excusable, because how would a cat know there was someone in the room right under their noses trying to get some sleep at night?

I love cats.

A Pressing Question

2009-04-16T10:05:00.004+08:00

I've always wondered,

Why Asians typically drive Hondas and Toyotas,

and
Why Aussies drive Fords and Holdens and Utes?

Then it got me thinking;

Does that question fall under the same category as:

why Asians eat rice and Westerners only order sweet and sour with fried rice at Chinese Restaurants?
or does it fall under the category of:

Why do people smoke and know that it will eventually lead to cancer and a slow, painful death and harm those around them doubly much,
and
Why people still drink every weekend knowing it is slowly killing their liver, their reputations and possibly ruining other people's lives plus it eats into their wallets?

Or are all these questions a superficial, unfair judgement on the people who fall under those categories?

I wonder.

Ten Things She likes About You

2009-04-11T08:41:00.008+08:00

Someone once asked me: 'What do girls want in a guy?' ie. what properties of the male kind attract females?

So that got me thinking, observing, and reading.

All girls are different. BUT we all have the same if not very similar subconscious minds.

1. Girls want a guy who can sweep them off their feet. Just like in fairytales. Why do you think Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and Cinderella are children's classics? Ever since young, little girls have been fed with the romance of being swept off their feet by a charming prince on a white horse one day. Every girl wants to be that princess.

2. Girls like bad boys. Define bad? Subconsciously, girls like guys who take risks. It thrills them to no end, and then the guy is perceived as hot. Ever wondered why Bond usually gets all the girls?
3. Girls like physical security. ie. a nice bod. For example (well my example at least... heheh)
Tall, lean, and dresses well. If you are a girl, think about the times when you were near to or talking to a well-build, well-manered tall guy. Do you feel safer compared to when you were around a not-so-tall, not-so-well built guy?

4. Girls are attracted to confidence and optimism. Ehhem. Most girls are easily discouraged and fragile creatures who need a bit of optimism to balance their thoughts. A confident man stirs up maternal instincts and tells the girl 'this is good husband material, he seems like a person who can potentialy be the head of my family.' If you are a girl, although you may not be looking for a lifetime partner at the moment, dig into your subconscious mind. There you will most likely find this statement more than true.

5. Girls are attracted to Godliness. No man shines more than a man of God. It shows that the man is capable of faith and loving a God who created their universe. This fascinates girls and makes them want to give back some love in return. A man who is capable of loving something that he knows is bigger than himself is very attractive. He will be perceived as humble, loving, and worthy of the girls' love.

6. Girls are attracted to the sound of a man. Now what does that mean? His voice- deep, clear, and confident; His posture- confident strides, positive posture; His unspoken words- body language, aura; His speech- clear, confident, and well-spoken. And on top of that, some girls like a man who is good with music.

7. Girls are also attracted to the looks of a man. Girls love to think that its not the looks that attract them, rather, its the heart that did it in the first place. But believe me, if there was a scrawny, sleezy looking guy who looked pretty unkempt but had a heart of gold, he would less likely find a partner compared to Mr. Prince Charming. Somehow, in the minds of girls, a man who knows how to look after himself physically, will definitely be a good candidate to look after her in the future.

What is wrong with Prince Charming here? He has it all- it seems. All the qualities of what girl might be attracted to. All but one. And the most important one- his heart.

8. Girls are attracted to the 'caringness' of a man. A macho looking man who stops by the road to help an injured kitten scores 200% in most girls books. Or a tall, dark and handsome man who stops at the zebra crossing to let a group of girls cross the road just makes their hearts skip a beat if he smiles.

9. Girls are atracted to the hands of a man. Ok this is a weird point, isn't it? Ever heard of the phrase' in good hands'? Hands of a man doesn't mean where the hands of go, but what the hands look like and how he handles things with his hands. A lot of women find that attractive. A man with big hands or hmm 'responsible looking' hands is perceived as capable. Just look at this man. Then try covering his hand and see if you see the same-looking man (if you are a girl). Do you?

10. Most importantly, girls are attracted to the heart of a man. A man who knows his heart and a man after God's heart. A man who knows what he wants and has strong principles. A man who is willing to talk things out and listen, a man who is there to catch them when they fall. Of all the things that attract girls to a man, a man's heart is the definition of the man himself. No girl can hit a bigger jackpot than a girl who has won the heart of a man with a heart.

This is from a girl's point of view, written in 'girls language'.

Good luck, guys, I hope that answered your question!

Disclaimer: Not all girls are the same. Just one property might be the sole importance in looking for a life partner in any one girl. Some may not be stated here. Don't start to worry, and don't doubt yourself. This is purely for entertainment puruposes (sort of) and is not based on any specific material, rather a collection of materials that have somehow made its way into the brain of the writer.

Heroes

2009-04-09T09:17:00.006+08:00

This, is me.

Or this is how I feel like.

Actually I feel like Dr Suresh from Heroes doing his reporting on his body changes in season 2 after he injected himself with 'power'.

Legs: Appear heavier with more difficulty lifting them up even with a simple task such as putting on a pair of jeans.

Arms: Flabbier by the day, probably related to body fluids and not to mention bodyfat.

Back: As though a certain uknown force is pulling you down, reversing all efforts to defy gravity. I call it 'heaving around'. I can no longer move freely once the back lands on a flat surface such as a sofa or a bed.

Lungs: Somehow decreased capacity, resulting in the need to countless sighs.

Overall: No clothes fit any longer. Not a single one. Will be needing to buy more again soon, especially with a few weddings coming up.

Ok. It may not sound as 'scientifically intelligent' as Dr Sureshs' reports.

Only thing, is now I do wish I had his hero strength because that will mean it would be easy for the baby to glide out. But then again, he's a man and men don't give birth and I believe there is a clear reason why. (ask a woman)

But the 'power' that I have that is the source of all these changes is really unlike any.

I would never trade a baby for a flat stomach, a skinny bod or gorgeous locks.

Would anyone?