Annual trip

Abi and I woke up darn early last Saturday because in the car park, his brother and boy cousin were waiting for us. At about 4.30 in the morning we all left for the airport and met another two guy cousins over there. During check-in, one of them almost could not make the flight because the airline policy required its passengers to produce passport having six months gap between departure and expiry dates; and his lacked by a few days. However, the kind officer called over to Thailand informing the details of our arrival and stay. Then we had to wait and see what would happen when we arrived. A suspense element, eh? I loved this journey already. So Phuket, here we come!

Guess what; my boss and family were on that same flight we were boarding. My husband was first to spot them at security checkpoint. They had a relative’s wedding reception to attend on the island, which was pretty cool. Our leaving on the same date and carrier was purely coincidental. I could accept same day travel, but same flight? I got to put my holiday mode on hold for a while there. Hmm.

I was greeted by a friendly immigration officer at Phuket International Airport. Our cousin brother who was with the passport issue, made pass Thailand entry counter and we cheered for him, yay! By the way that was the last time I saw my boss and his entourage so once again: Phuket, here we come!

We chartered a pickup-truck passenger vehicle (PPV) to take us for hotel check-in. Well, it was not actually hotel hotel, more like an inn but it was enough for the six of us as the location was strategic for our activities in Patong. After a so-so lunch and rest, we checked out the beach just across the road. And we were glad to have discovered a stall selling hawker food with a Malay speaking waitress. Their delicious soup noodles and pancakes had compensated our lunch. Enough said.

Basically, the first day was spent exploring the area until night fall. We took our time adjusting to the different local time from but similar prayer time with KL; the sweeter drinks but came with thoughtful plain water jug; the spoken English where using grammatically correct language sounded insulting; the spoken Thai (with us) assuming we are locals; to list a few.

On the second day, everybody was excited for the program of the day: Phi Phi island hopping! We traveled to many fascinating places. In one full day we covered discovering Phi Phi Lay and swimming in Maya Bay, snorkeling and fish feeding in Loh Samah Bay, sightseeing Viking Cave; monkey feeding on Monkey Beach as well as having lunch and buying souvenirs on Phi Phi Don.

It was one bumpy ride on the speedboat because the waves were not forgiving at all. Anyway it was a beautiful sunny day; therefore I take pleasure in it regardless the butt thumping experience. By tea time we were swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and feeding fishes at Khai Island. The tour staff served us cookies, drinks and fresh fruits before going back to the pier.

On the third day we were up and ready to start our trip to a National Park in Phang Nga province. After two hours’ drive from Phuket island, we arrived at the place we were to do water rafting. Since it was my first time trying such, I decided to just let the boys paddle in this five kilometer boat ride. I must say the feeling was awesome for all of us first timers. Was that fun or what, huh guys? Then, we dipped in the cold waterfall before having lunch served at the water rafting restaurant and headed back to the inn.

In the evening we went down to see Simon Cabaret. It is an entertainment house famous for offering various styling performances. Sounds fine but here is the catch: we watched an all boys show in which not a single woman was on the stage, literally. Who needs one when them lady-boys could act and dress resembling real women? I actually enjoyed it and the guys were even more excited to snap pictures with those performers after.

We spent that last night on the island by having a really good Malay-Thai style dinner. The driver dropped us at a roadside stall whose owner is Malaysian residing and running a good food business in Phuket. The nice heavy meal had forced us walk along Bangla Road (tongue). The clubbing scene was different from any other places I had been to so far. Visitors should come for a look-see or the experience of it because the night life here is happening, man! Live bands were playing in numerous premises here, not restricted to clubs only. Plus, people watching had never been this amusing (wink). Oh you need to come see for yourself to even comprehend what I was saying.

We checked-out on the fourth day after dipping in the morning seawater of Patong Beach and doing a bit of shopping just outside the inn (yes, it was that convenient). The driver took us to Karon beach, Kata lookout point, cashew nut factory, souvenir store and Premium Outlet before finally sending us to the airport. Funny how we gathered all our Thai baht left because we still want to have our last drinks before departure. It was total chaos at the café (grin). Although the flight was an hour delayed we killed the time by playing cards and striking poses near the departure gate. Talk about fun and enjoying it to the very last minute!

There you have it, another beach getaway that we hope to go over again and make it an annual event. Credits must be given to my investor husband, although your “losing” our accommodation fund did give us a little scare. How ironic but you managed to gain it back at low cost in given time like a respectful fund manager (kiss).

My arms and face were burnt and shiny from too much exposure to the sun. My legs were favorites among giant mosquitoes there. I am hideous now but should be recovering soon. But then again I went to Phuket, you?

New mood

Last Thursday night I flew into Changi Airport where Abi had waited for me so we could have dinner together. He already ordered a takeout prior to my arrival which was thoughtful (kiss). However, I failed to push in that last pizza piece down my throat because it was real cheesy and I was, well, sleepy. So I saved the leftover to continue eating it on the next day.

I woke up when my husband was getting ready for work on Friday morning. He handed me some cash for grocery and other stuffs (read: shopping, honey!) and kissed me goodbye. As much as I hated seeing him off, I know that my man is not only passionate about his job (okay you cannot deny this fact, Abi) but also doing his best to provide for the family. Meanwhile, I admit to be his exact opposite. Opposite attracts, get it? If he works, I sleep. If he earns, I spend. So when he gave, I took; a simple display of give and take. Tee hee.

I got back to sleep, then woke up to doing laundry because the sun was out. The weather was so fine and before I knew it, I left the apartment making my way downtown. My first destination was Wisma Atria. I had a voucher which would expire soon so must make use of it. A dinner purse caught my eyes so I cashed it on that. After much hunting around, I managed to get jeggings and a shirtdress too, at ION Orchard so, yay!

My last stop was White Sands where I bought the necessary ingredients for cooking my famous gulai lemak. I went back to the house by midday; all smiling with the purchases. Remember the leftover pizza? I had that for lunch (tongue) and still breathing, thank God. And dinner was prepared as Abi came home from the office. Ah what a perfect wife’s day I had.

It was Saturday and we decided to start our day with a big breakfast of hash brown, sausage muffin, scrambled egg and coffee. Then I dragged Abi to IKEA to look for a few household items. My husband got himself a chair cushion and massage sandals from this outing. Hmm we must be getting old that you now need supporting aids for your cute butts and tired feet. Whatever, I love you regardless; you good looking old man (grin)!

You know what else made me realize that we are getting old? The fact we could no longer consume that much food like we used to. That evening I was excited about eating at a restaurant serving Korean barbeque and steamboat buffet. Half way enjoying dinner, I felt like giving up already. Sure it was delicious and we finished everything we ordered but after that Abi and I had to walk it off in the park behind our apartment. I promised myself not to indulge in such lavish feast anymore. Well, at least not in the next two years or so.

On Sunday evening my husband sent me to Harbourfront Centre terminal where I would depart back to KL. We had a drink before scouring for stuffs to bring on our holiday. Abi bought (finally, something!) two t-shirts for himself and capri pants for me. He also got me flip-flops last week and called from VivoCity about two boardshorts he purchased today; so I think we are pretty much set for the trip this coming weekend.

Hardly, I cannot wait to travel again. The truth is I have lost focus at work. I am beginning to feel the warm breeze as opposed to this cold harsh office air conditioner trying to match the weather in Tokyo. Come on, who are we kidding?

All that playing in my mind is images of a beautiful island and mouthwatering Thai food! Gaining holiday weight due to excessive and frequent munching is inevitable but I shall not care about it for now and it will be dealt with once we safely touch down in KL where I can start panicking (sigh).

If you are unable to reach me on the phone, I may be busy packing up our bag. Later if you do not see me online, perhaps there is not any Wi-Fi on the beach! I will be visible again next year, God willing. Alright kindly be safe, drive safe and play safe, people. Let the year end celebration begin!

Playing chef

Last month when I cooked lunch one weekend in our Pasir Ris home, Abi invited his guy cousin working in JB to come over and join us for the so-called feast. On one hand, he really enjoyed my gulai lemak tenggiri, thank God. On the other hand, he could not believe that I learnt preparing it from the Internet. Well, being married to a Negri Sembilan folk (Hobin jang, hobin! Sorry i cannot help it), he thought my beloved mother-in-law must have taught me the recipe. Truth to the matter is she had not. And I thought the whole skepticism thingy was funny.

So, because he still did not buy both my husband’s and my words for it, all that I could think of is another relevant reason for my unbelievable cuisine talent (tongue). Although I did not even came from that state famous for the dish, I am in fact half Minang, whose ancestors hailed from Padang, Indonesia and opened a piece of land and resided in Gombak, KL. Now that I revealed you my secret, so I say blame it on the blood running in my veins, dear cousin. But I think Abi rather sees it as a blessing because this means that I do not totally suck at cooking (wink).

It got funnier last two weeks; when one of girls from the office who was getting married would like to learn cooking from me (grin). I told her the same thing I did our guy cousin; the internet is my teacher. I just cannot believe that people are seeking my advice nowadays. Or I must be getting older that I gained such aura called wisdom. Hmm. You ought to be one with the network, my child (read in an echoic mode). Anyway congratulations on your wedding, babe! It was a grand reception last Saturday and you were right about the food being tasty. Yeah of course you can come to me anytime for those cooking tips (kiss).

Mumble no. 57

Ah the end of the year. It is almost here again. Know what this means? Shopping, baby! As sale event will take place in all retail outlets in conjunction with a public holiday in the month of December. My mom and half brothers are planning to come staying with us in Pasir Ris. It is also the holiday season for college and university brats so they have the perfect excuse to travel and see the world. Yeah, right.

Hopefully Abi and I can take them all out dining, shopping; tourist style. Actually we ourselves have never really explored explored the Lion City so I think the time is just right for us all to find out what is so unique about the country. Hmm.

Year end is also the time for my husband and me to have that beach holiday, again! Of course a bunch of other boys are coming along, too. Remember Krabi, guys? I hope it is going to be as crazy as last year’s trip with a lot of drinking taking place (tongue). I already miss those sleepless card playing nights. Body massage; one must never forget that. And I cannot wait to taste lots of different but scrumptious food!

Also in this entry I have to say what I should have said a long time ago, since the middle of this year to be exact. I am afraid that if I do not do this, very soon, I am going to lose my mind. So here goes:

I have been coming to work, day in day out without having any specific job to do. No matter is either important or urgent. I am tired of doing it but have no intention to leave the company I work with so far. However recently, and I feel it the strongest today; I am beginning to not see the point of repeating this everyday anymore. You may think I am weak but that is how it has been all this while. Help?

Looking on the bright side of this so-called issue, I enjoy going to work for being with colleagues, drinking and eating three times during the day on breaks. As if socializing at the office is not enough, I meet the girls for more drinks outside or for dinner especially when we all fast on that day. In addition, my paycheck is on time at every end of the month, without fail. And just to make things clear, the company is doing well and there is no sign of it going to be shut down despite the slow economy nowadays. Hey on second thought, I may get through this because I am a cat that is patient and love to be spoilt with free money from a great company (grin).

So there I said it. It is a battle for me getting up to work on weekdays. I actually look forward to weekends because my life is much better and fun with Abi around. Although it is also a fight opening my eyes in the morning these last two days but I was glad to have done it with him (kiss), waking up that is. After all, we could use a beauty sleep having traveled back and fourth between the two countries.

Busy bee

It is impossible for me to detail out all happenings for the past one month. So here is my life in recap:

Last weekend, I drove down to Singapore with brother-in-law, his guy cousin and mom-in-law. We met Abi’s kid sister and her boy cousins at Pasir Ris home.

Mom-in-law cooked her famous “mee mama” on Saturday much to everybody’s delight. Although eight hungry kids had to wait for their turns as we were short on plates (sigh).

However, Sunday meal was even better not only because there was stingray asam pedas, omelet, fried prawn and vegetable prepared by mom-in-law; but number of people had also reduced (grin) when three had left prior to lunchtime. More food for the rest of us, yay!

By the way I grabbed a UNIQLO t-shirt and sweat parka from the Tampines outlet, when in fact I needed were the leggings! Maybe sweet husband does not mind buying them for me at ION Orchard, pretty please?

Last two weekends, my husband and I flew to Langkawi. Well, we kind of needed some rest after Raya, without any specific plans. However, we did go to places we missed the last time we visited for example the Cable Car and Underwater World.

Riding our way up to Gunung Mat Chincang was an unbelievable experience. Of course I was scared but it was also a good way of embracing my fear of height. You did enjoy that too, right Abi (kiss)? Meanwhile, the many species at the renowned marine park did not failed to fascinate us. We both especially loved the penguins; they were darn cute and funny!

We stayed at perhaps the only 4-star hotel in Kuah town, which meant duty-free shopping was just walking distance away. We could get to the shops as soon as they were opened in a matter of minutes! And the hotel's buffet breakfast was not disappointing at all and I had eaten a lot before we began our so-called adventure.

We had char koay teow dinner for the first night and sup tulang northern style on the second. For lunch on day one it was grilled kembong, terubuk, a beef dish, fried veggie with rice and drinks at just RM20! We took it easy on our last day as we had northern laksa, mee rebus and cendol for late lunch by the beach.

I got to love everything about this island; the breathtaking landscape, the northern dialect (loud but entertaining) and the flavorful food. Even the RM1 nasi lemak was tasty, unlike in KL. And to a real shopaholic (read: yours truly), shopping became a small part of the agenda when discovering Langkawi was a lot more fun. There are always more things to see, which is why we are coming back for sure.

Abi and I did not have much to do in the last five weekends sadly due to I had to work on Saturdays. Except that a girlfriend forced another school friend to cook pasta for us so we could pay her a Raya visit. Yeah we enjoyed torturing our girlfriend like that but we had fun, right girls? Anyhow, the spaghetti was delicious and so did your so-called serunding (wink).

A university girlfriend got married on last three Fridays. I attended her marriage solemnization that night without Abi but had to skip her wedding reception on Saturday. She was one of my apartment mates back then. All of us were reunited again celebrating her blissful day. After all I had been attending all these girls’ wedding except one.

I almost skipped the after dinner if not for sup tulang they served there. The truth is, I was supposed to fetch my husband later that same night but I had to call brother-in-law for back up. Surprising Abi with his new lift (thanks, bro) I stayed a bit longer to catch up with the girls.

Hey congratulations, dear. May he take really good care of you and take you wherever you need to be. Still not confident to drive, are we? Anyway, cheers!

My AUSMAT friend invited my husband and me to his open house on Sunday. Actually he just bought a new home not very far from my office so we went there to check it out. We arrived rather late but thank God there was still food! The guys had a nice chat while I shoved whatever I could down my throat (burp), before we said good night to our hosts.

So that was it, all my Raya weekends in an entry. It was cool although tiring but that was because of the office moving thingy. Oh my workplace was relocated and it had only been eight days today. I am still inhaling the fresh paint odor which is making me uneasy. Well, life or work has to go on, I guess. It is survival of the fetus, anyway. I hope I am strong enough to face same old at-new-office politics but let us pray I do not have to step on other people’s heads to pave my path here. So are you like, scared now?

Hari Raya 2

Abi and I celebrated our first day of Hari Raya in Penang. In fact, we were already on our way over there two days prior to the big day. I had also promised myself to break the fasting with grandmother; and dad in Sungai Petani. I managed to fulfill them all, thank God.

We performed our Raya prayer at the Al-Jamiul Badawi Mosque in which the former Prime Minister and family were also present. Tun was not able to be around during such festive day like this for more than ten years due to his duty but now he was back in his hometown to join the celebration.

After that my husband and I visited a couple of my relatives’ houses and we were off to his grandmother’s. We hit the road about one in the afternoon and arrived in Kuala Pilah in one piece before sundown. Brother-in-law was planning a barbeque party so we did not want to miss that!

On the third day I was already in Pasir Ris to accompany Abi who got just a day leave from his office (poor baby). For your information the official public holiday for Hari Raya in Singapore is one day only. Here in Malaysia we get two days but my office would be shutting down for five days so, yay!

Anyhow, this only means that I could follow my husband (been there), would do a bit of post Raya shopping (done that) and might try (I repeat, try) to visit my relatives or his relatives over there. If they are already back in town that is.

By the sixth Hari Raya we both will be back in KL. Only then I get to see my mother and her side of family. I am crossing my fingers though. Plans can still change depending on the energy we have left for attending all those invitations. Traveling south-north-south-then-north-again can be exhausting even for diehard travelers like us.

I am praying for a quick but safe journey home. We are all set for it and going to make this trip happen. The truth I do not really mind about going everywhere in times of celebration but I only care if Abi is going to be around. However, I am looking forward to cooking and eating festive foods with no regrets! And most importantly, we will try to be there for our families even if it means we are going to be on the highway a lot.

The reason I am telling all this is because you can know our whereabouts. If we are not at your open house party, we may be at someone else’s farther from yours. I know it is tough being us but a couple’s got to do what a couple’s got to do. Although kindly find it in your heart to not make this a big deal and pardon our lack of appearance, literally.

So may you enjoy your festive holidays. Please do not drive but stay home during Hari Raya so we can hog the road!

p/s: Happy birthday mom-in-law! I hope our duit raya was enough for you to buy a nice gift for yourself (wink). It is your special day so I wish you have a good time today.

More eats

On Monday I went out with the girls from office for breaking the fast. This time our choice of venue was a restaurant that carried an American name but served all kinds of Italian food.Ironic? Sarcastic? Tongue in cheek? Well I am not sure, you be the judge.

Anyhow, restaurant’s concept apart, it was a cozy eating place and near to both our office and the highway toll so we could go straight home after dinner. And the food was not bad at all. The dish was infused with local flavor a bit (cili padi on a pizza, anyone?) thus well suited any Malaysian palate. Besides, the portion was huge!

A girl friend and I had to ask them to pack our pizzas because there was insufficient space in our tummies. And I had been eating it for two days now. Surprisingly it tasted normal and hey, I am still breathing. Living proof, right here.

Last night there was a department break fasting do. It was considered our final feast together during fasting month this year. A department member was kind enough to sponsor about 70 percent of the buffet dinner price that we all needed to pay. I am praying that God bless him with longer life on earth and much more wealth for his deed!

It was held at one of the cafés inside UKM. And dinner was delicious despite of the extra hot flavor in some dishes. I am guessing the Chef hailed from Negri Sembilan. So I braved myself finishing every single dish I put on my plates. After all the sweat and tear I invested in them, I pulled through in the end. Good job, girl!

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In order of appearance:

(1) Break fasting with mom in Gombak Setia. Check.
(2) Break fasting with parents-in-law in Paroi Jaya. Check. Twice.
(3) Break fasting with the girls from office. Check. Twice.
(4) Break fasting with brother-in-law and boy cousins. Check.
(5) Break fasting with Abi’s grandmother in Kuala Pilah. Check.
(6) Break fasting at the airport. Check. Twice.
(7) Break fasting with gossip buddies. Check. Twice.
(8) Break fasting with division colleagues. Check.
(9) Break fasting with the boys to skip reunion dinner. Check.
(10) Break fasting with investment dealers. Check
(11) Break fasting with fellow staff and volunteers at a certain NGO office. Check.
(12) Break fasting with Abi in the quiet of our own home. Check. Once.
(13) Break fasting with department members. Check.
(14) Break fasting with big sister. Check.
(15) Break fasting with my grandmother in Kepala Batas. In progress.
(16) Break fasting with dad in Sungai Petani. In progress.

Alright looks like my fasting month routine is almost complete. And best of all, I managed to do it with or without you, Abi. Of course it was more fun dragging you around and tagging along with you (wink). I sure hope to repeat all of this next year. God’s willing.

Beauty mark

The car got into its first accident. Well, not exactly traffic accident. On Monday evening, Abi and I just arrived at the executive suite where we were staying during his training. At the parking lot, my husband was a bit distrustful about the car next to us would bang into ours if the driver opened the door.

So he tried very hard to adjust it further away from that car. He squeezed it really close to the pillar and there you have it: a scarred side mirror on the driver’s right.

I rephrase, it was Abi who did it. I almost died when I heard the screeching sound of the side mirror against the pillar. My other half was of course, crazily traumatized. Enough said.

It had only been three months since he bought the car. My husband tried to calm himself by saying, “There is always a first time for everything.” Hmm. Why did it not sound right to me somehow?

I must admit the scar just breaks my heart every time I look at it. And I refuse to comment on your driving skill, Abi. Anyhow, it is in fact your car and you scratched it on your own, thank God. Although it is a universally known truth that I always have issues with tyres but now we know you have a so-called relationship with side mirrors (wink).

Well, we could not turn back time and undo the unfortunate event now, could we? Therefore, I say we try to forget everything and put things behind us because it was not a good memory after all. But I will tell you what was, despite all this.

The fact that we still get to rest our tired bodies and relax our minds at the hotel was the best part of the day! Allow me to bring you on a tour.

I did not want to get up from that bed. I swear. Ever. However, instead of staying in with my husband (one could only wish), he must attend some training and I need to come to work. Darn. I will miss you bed, I promise.

Of eating, again

It was that time of year again. Abi was invited to his school batch’s breaking the fast event. This year it took place at one of the golf clubs in Shah Alam. I, on the other hand had made plan to dine with his brother-in-law and boy cousins on the same weekend.

Because my husband would need a ride to his reunion dinner venue, I had to think of a nearby location to eat. I asked around in the office but nothing seemed intriguing enough for me or the five us for that matter. It was kind of stressing since I had not been to Shah Alam for quite a while now that I did not know if the cafés or restaurants I used to frequent during my pre-university years would still be there today.

Finally at about five in the evening, a girl friend who stays in Shah Alam recommended I go to a kedai kopi. She tried the shop’s ala carte dish before and it was good. In addition, she said the shop was serving a buffet during fasting month but had not experienced it. I took her word about the food’s taste so I went on a search for a kopitiam by the lakeside with the guys.


Hey how come you did not tell me there were two kedai kopis, Auk?

Yes there were two of them but the one we found was without the buffet. Sigh. Now we never knew how it would taste like, huh? However my girl friend was right about most of the ala carte food. Every time I checked with the cousins about their food they say it was fine.

The service was great though. The waitress spoke softly and most dishes arrived before it was time to break fasting. By the way we placed our order at 7pm and we are talking about seven different items from the menu here, so we could not really blame them for the late arrival. Anyhow we enjoyed the feast except for poor brother-in-law due to his unusual prawn mee taste.

It was an exciting dinner despite my husband was not around. We also did not skip dessert in which my husband would if he were to be with us (tongue). Would you look at that melting ice-cream? It was lip smacking I almost could not stop. Oh do not be mad, Abi. I am pretty sure you had a lot to eat from your buffet spread. And I hope you had loads of fun over there too because I did!


Yesterday my husband and I did a bit of Raya shopping. Moreover, there was a dinner we were attending so need to look for something to wear. We left the house before noon for Bukit Bintang area, again. Abi bought me a plain white shirt for dinner. He would be wearing the same that night (wink). Then he got black jeans for the both of us and my Raya shoes were an impulse buy. It was not in our shopping list but he paid for it anyway. Thank you my sweet hope-you-did-not-regret-marrying-me husband (kiss). Alright I promise this would be the last shoes for me. This year that is!

So I wore my glamorous sexy shoes to dinner just break them in for Hari Raya, you know. The host who invited us was already waiting at the entrance to greet us. Well, no offence guys, but I must agree when he said Abi “is the most handsome fund manager in town.” Okay, so I am biased, so?

And breaking the fast at a certain FELDA grand hall, buffet style; was heavenly! Need I say more? The renowned food caterer prepared the best briyani chicken rice, macaroni and cheese, much variety of delicacies, grilled meat, noodles and salad. I knew I missed many other food there but I could not stuffed them all anyway. There were 88 items on the night’s menu, people! We went home tired from digesting all those stuff, darn.

No, I was not done for the weekend yet. My husband is still here in KL for training, again. You know what it means. Life is great, that is all. Oh God, thank you so very much!

Simply living

On Saturday evening, Abi and I fetched his brother and cousin and all of us drove down to KL hoping we could still get a table at our favorite chicken rice shop in Bukit Bintang area. Sadly though, it was fully booked so we hung out at a mamak’s place first. The plan was to eat lightly before having an actual dinner later.

While waiting for breaking the fast, I did some people watching and boy was I surprised. I thought I just renewed my wardrobe’s collection a few months earlier but now it did not seem to come close with what those girls were wearing. They dressed really differently that I wonder how long had the trend been like this. I felt the need to catch up but I did not know where to find the energy to.

Just like I did not have the energy to wait for breaking the fast. I was darn hungry but managed to busy myself with a couple of magazines. After having some drinks and curry puffs, we moved on to chicken rice (now we are talking). And I was not sure if it is the food or the fact that we were seated in front of a pedestrian crossing’s traffic light right next to the Jalan Bukit Bintang that caused the heat. I was sweating as if I was running while eating. Anyway the food was as expected: it tasted better in other months and slightly poor in fasting month but overall, it was still good.

Next, we went to Lot 10 Shopping Centre (who goes there anymore?) and brother-in-law got himself a Mac bag. I purchased uncooked pasta for Hari Raya. They looked nice I could not wait to mess with them! In about an hour we were done there but not for the night, yet. We continued to hang out at a kopitiam. Each had a couple of drinks and updated our online accounts while we were at it. We had so much fun although we kind of did this almost every weekend! It was already 1am by the time my husband and I arrived home.

Yesterday, Abi granted another break fasting wish of mine. We rushed to the Mines Shopping Fair and there was unbelievably massive crowd over there probably due to public holiday. We decided to park outside the building and got in straight to buy that famous foot long toasted sandwich with beef steaks. I asked for all veggies except onion and all but teriyaki sauce to be stuffed in. That was how I would order it, every single time. No complain from him so far (tongue).

Done paying, my husband and I hurried out and off to the airport. Yeah we had to have dinner at the airport because his flight was at 8.50pm so must check-in before 7.50pm and boarding time was at 8.10pm. Therefore, we needed to squeeze everything in that limited time: eat, pray and run to the departure gate. Alright the word run was pretty overstated. Okay we did not run just walked very fast. Anyhow, all was worth it once you break fasting on a healthy but huge creamy spicy sour sweet messy sandwich with potato chips! Yummy.

Once again I felt blissful, contented and entertained by indulging in life’s simple pleasures. From street eatery to the airport’s food garden, I enjoyed them all. It does not take much to make my day (wink). I am plain boring like that but then again he is a simple person too. So I guess we complement each other in that way. I wonder what is in store this weekend. Hmm.

And again

Yesterday was the first day I fasted alone. This year that is. What is wrong with that, you say.

I came in late to the office so when I go back, it would be a matter of minutes before breaking fast. Well, what do you know? Everybody left the office so darn early. They kept saying goodbye and wished me excitedly “Selamat berbuka!” on their way out. Some asked if I planned to eat at the office. Some even instructed me to just go home already. Thanks for the concern, guys! So what could be worse than that, you say.

I thought I had a great plan there. I bought a few delicacies so I could eat them when it was time to break the fasting along my way home. Of course I anticipated the eating-in-the-car-while-driving part. However, what I did not see was, just as the azan was playing on the radio, I recited my prayer in almost (I rephrase, almost) shedding a tear.

Suddenly it felt so hard this time around. I was surprised and laughed at myself for being such a wimp. I got all sensitive not able to break the fasting with Abi when in fact, I really enjoyed dinner with him and my family on Saturday; and his family on Sunday. Maybe I was not that macho anymore (was I ever?). Probably it was one of the effects of getting old.

I hated that feeling. Until I got home. I finished the rest of the food purchased from the canteen at my workplace. I prayed and then watched the Oprah Winfrey Show. Yeah I am that lame, tell me something else.

You know how this program always talks about individuals are beaten down in life but get up to put up a fight for theirs? Well, it was that kind of show last night. And we are talking of people who lost body parts and almost their minds here! They somehow survive and move on with what is left of their lives.

That was when I realized I should not be. Miserable, sad and having all those ungrateful feelings. God has given enough for me. For the both of us for that matter. Weak is for losers and I am not one for sure. Come on, breakdown? Over breaking fast alone?

To my beautiful wonderful husband, you know I love you. As rigid as I may sound, I can take care of myself. You have absolutely nothing to worry about (kiss). If you choose to complete your twenty months of service, bring it on! If I need to wait for you another hundred years, so be it. Whatever that does not kill me, it only makes me stronger.

However, there are two things that I want to ask of you, Abi. This weekend I plan to have these foods on the dinner table. And most importantly, I hope to share them with you (wink). I can hardly wait!

Hectic weekend

Last Friday evening, I waited at the office for my brother-in-law as we were driving down to Singapore to see his brother, my husband, who else? Their mother was also coming with us so we got to fetch her in Seremban, on our way there. The three of us had a good time traveling as the journey was smooth sailing.

We picked Abi up at his apartment and head out to Changi Village. We arrived at this food court to eat dinner where they served probably the best Penyet chicken rice in Singapore. To me it was because the taste adjusted well to our Malaysian palate so we experienced just a mild cultural shock. Besides, they opened until late at night to ensure that we would not sleep on an empty stomach (burp).

We went out on Saturday night for a chili crab dinner at Bedok. Although we ordered four dishes in small size, we had a hard time finishing everything. The chili crab, mix veggie, sweet and sour soup plus tofu were undoubtedly scrumptious but the word small on the menu fooled us all. It was small alright, for a giant! But we tried our best (yawn).

Mustafa Centre was our next stop. As I was sitting down from an aching foot while waiting for mom-in-law doing her shopping, I saw them. A pair of KicKers® canvas pumps! They were dark brown in color that would match my sling bag. Perfect, I thought. So I got up and tried the available sizes and found a pair that fit. And guess what? I paid only SGD14.90 for them! If the word perfect has a superlative, I would say that these shoes are the most perfect buy ever!

We packed up our things as we were going home on Sunday evening. Abi followed us back for he had a training to attend at his KL office. We both checked-in to an accommodation near my husband’s training venue. And the Executive Suite was just what the doctor ordered. It is the kind that I want to live in for the longest time. So I am not going to explain more but let these photos say for the gorgeous room itself. Enjoy!

I sent Abi to KLIA on Tuesday night. By the way, did you know KLIA has a designated parking space for four-wheel drive vehicles only? Well I did not, until that night. How cool is that, huh? Anyhow I must say it was one hectic weekend, and weekdays too! Being mainly on the road for these past few days really wore me out. Lucky my husband’s car has an intelligent mind of its own. Driving around was more fun if you let it do all the work (grin). Love that fine-looking robot. Hmm.

And last night there was a farewell do for a guy from work. We went to Palma Café to have dinner and I chose to eat the chili spaghetti, again. I had it on my last visit but apparently it was not enough, I supposed. Once more, the dish did not fail me because of the mystical power of it has. Okay highly exaggerated, sorry I cannot help it (tongue).

The thing is, it might look simple and harmless but the taste was absolutely heart stopping, in a good way. I actually checked with a girlfriend who ordered the same dish if she was still breathing. Hey just go there and order yourself one serving already. I said enough here.

Rock on, babe!

Last Sunday evening, Abi and I went to his brother’s apartment. Yeah we hang out there like, a lot! His house is kind of a one-stop centre. We would drop by to book bus seats, flight tickets or merely update blog. It is also a pick up point for futsal practice, going back to Seremban or any

cousinly outing.

As for me, I would play with his semi acoustic guitar and annoy everybody with my so-called skill (grin). I could also irritate Abi with my karaoke singing besides watching DVDs he would not buy because he downloads them from the internet. Cheapskate, and I wonder who taught him that. Hmm.It is the place to crash if my husband and I are too tired to drive back to our own apartment. Although our house is just about 10 kilometers away, but to continue our journey home on a full stomach or when Abi drives with his eyes completely shut; is out of the question. However most of the time we crash over there because every night we pay a visit, I would doze off early so Abi just let me sleep.

We would plan a sleepover if my husband feels like watching football or playing PS3 with the boys. Or if we want to eat the best nasi lemak in the world from a stall near my brother-in-law’s place. We have to get up and be there early for breakfast to catch the sambal prawns!

So anyway, last Sunday evening, Abi and I went to his brother’s apartment.
The latest attraction is a new game called Rock Band®! The truth, I pretty much suck at it. Hey, I am just a beginner so you might want to give me more time, huh?

My better half though, was hooked up with the game. I had a hard time making him quit playing so we could have some cake. His birthday cake, for God’s sake! Take a look at him, all smiling trying out the instruments, a drum set and a guitar. By the way, his brother and cousin were kind enough to secretly buy Secret Recipe’s chocolate walnut cake for us to enjoy before Abi caught his flight back to Singapore. Thanks, boys!

Did you like this surprise, Abi?

Well, here is a toast to a funny, gentle, handsome, patient and wise (yeah he is all that, I promise) husband:

Welcome to the Club 30s and believe me, at this point you have already earned everything we need. Just take some time to appreciate it. I trust your every judgment and investment, you freakonomist! Remember that you brought us both here. You know, God has always answered my prayer and you are the best I have ever asked for.

Happy birthday, Abi. May we endure the tests of time and weather in years to come. To health, love, money and many more. Salute!

Read me if you can

Alright I really hope you could figure this out, Abi. I am crossing my fingers.

So, did you like the surprise (wink)?

Birthday redo

On my birthday, I went out for dinner with my buddies who fetched me up at the apartment. In one car, there was my male chauvinist friend who got engaged recently. Yes, he is back! Tagging along was a girl friend and myself. We were to meet another friend at Mid Valley Megamall that night.

Since it was my birthday, I got to choose where we were eating out. I decided to dine at the Little Penang Café. It was also a favorite place for Abi and me, especially during our university years.

The food tasted remarkably good even after nine years! And dinner was alright despite some loud-phone-conversation interruptions. Anyway, I did not let that ruin my excitement because it was the night when everything was supposed to be about me, right guys?

However due to the inevitable incident, last night, I went out again with them for yet another birthday dinner. This time, it took place at a Secret Recipe outlet. And it was more relaxed and fun compared to the night before.

My friends decided to redo my birthday celebration. I did not even know if there is such a thing (confused). Well, I enjoyed it anyway! We shared curry laksa, gourmet pie and meatball spaghetti. And you should look at us go, because we sure can eat!

My friends ordered a sliced cake of the month for dessert. And I did not see a candle coming with the cake (aawww). You guys are so sweet. And just so you know, I wished something good for the three of us. You guys will thank me later.

Is birthday great or what? Not only I got to pick my celebration venues, I also did not have to pay for anything. Thank you, gorgeous people. I had real grown up fun!

Happy birthday, ol' gal!

I must admit, I was a bit nervous waking up this morning. It was the day, finally. The day I turned the big three zero. My dad was the first to call and asked my age. Real funny, dad.

Man, I am already half his age! And in the next years, I will be more than that. Life has its mathematical way of teasing us, has it not?

Both my dad and step mom wished me happy birthday right before I went out for work and my spirit was high already. Abi, let us just visit them before fasting month and steal makcik’s Raya cookie samples (yummy) back to KL!

Of course Abi had sent me birthday message when I was sleeping last night. There were wishes from colleagues, too. I am always amazed by people who actually stay up to make sure their SMS is sent exactly after 12 midnight. What an effort! Truth be told, timing aside, I already know you people love me!

Anyhow, my so-called birthday get-together at the office was a peaceful one. It was held in a room booked for a rehearsal of a conference we are holding next week. And that is my destined coincidence. God loves me too, there is no denying that!

I knew my colleagues were all busy this time around. However, 15 people made an appearance. We enjoyed Secret Recipe’s hazel cheesecake complimentary of the coolest husband in the whole wide world! It was creamy and nutty and some people had more than a slice, you know who you are (wink). Besides the dessert, I prepared spaghetti with cheese and herbs, chips, chocolate, sweets and drinks. The usual. And Abi, please have some cake (kiss).

Yeah, I like to joke about my life like that. Most people I know are so confident and witty. That is why I hang out with them a lot. Only some people I meet are too bitter with no sense of humor, which is why I choose to avoid them. I mean, why so serious? Nobody gets out alive from this short life.

I could not sulk at those who did not make it (to the party, not in life). Because their well wishes kept pouring in my email inbox so they were more than enough to make my day (grin). Well, from the bottom of my young heart I thank you all so much. You guys were the best. Air kiss on both your cheeks!

Hey life, think you got on my nerves? Not yet, babe. Today, I scored three and sorry man, you zero.

Woo hoo! Try again, like, next decade?

p/s: This birthday though, I wish not (I pledge to be different, tongue) to be:

* the bigger man; even you and I both are on the wrong sides of an argument, I will not apologize first. No, not anymore.

* the human glue; so if you guys are not in talking term, suit yourselves. Leave me out of your selfish feud. Do not call me to complain about each other, again.

* the superwoman; because I never want to be anybody’s hero. Never before, never ever. I am tired of saving others with their so-called problems. They just forget to call when they are doing fine.

Pre-birthday

Abi is arriving in KL about at 10 tonight. I know Aeroline serves dinner on board so I will have to eat on my own. Therefore, I told him that I am making dinner plan with the girls from the office.

We are going to one of my favorite eating places, the Palma Café. A colleague has been craving for a chili pasta. She would go on and on and on about how delicious the dish is for so long now. I never tried that one before so I might just order that. Hmm. Darn, girl!

I am looking forward to dinner and doing you know, girl talk. For me, any activity outside the office is just as good. And hanging out with people who could relate to you is even better! Furthermore, this way I could kill some time while waiting for Abi.Speaking of which, later tonight, my husband and I will be checking-in into Eastin Hotel. Actually the room is booked earlier courtesy of my brother-in-law. It is his pre-birthday gift for me. Cool, huh?

So Abi and I will be spending two nights at the hotel, free of charge. I just cannot wait. We are going to sleep in, laze in and do absolutely nothing. Oh maybe we will need to order room service for that matter. I know it is going to be great (grin).

Hey bro, thank you so much for the thoughtful present. I will try to snap a few pictures. If I ever get up from the comfortable bed that is (tongue)! And kindly have a fun but safe trip to Gunung Tahan. I am telling you, your brother sure envies you for that.

Here are some of the photos, as promised.

Eating out

Last Thursday, I went out with a friend who was getting engaged over the weekend. He and a girl friend fetched me at my apartment after seven in the evening. We took him out for his last meal as a single male.

The three of us headed to Chili’s Grill and Bar at Mid Valley where we dined as if there is not going to be another outing like this. Well, we girls were not taking chances on this one. Because if even a male chauvinist pig (and proud of it) like him decided to get married, he could (I repeat, could) submit to his fiancée’s command to not hang out with us anymore. Who knows, right? So if it was our last night together, we had to be prepared. Weep.

Anyway, I had been craving for nachos for quite some time now. So I ordered just that and enjoyed to the last piece. Apart from that we also had chicken tenders and drummets, fries, sandwiches, spring rolls and veggies. Oh Abi, kindly do not hate me (kiss) for eating so much sin food. Without you. At least the celery sticks were healthy. Tee hee.

It was a relaxing night out, though. It felt like I had not seen these guys for weeks! We had a lot to catch up on especially about our respective lives. And about future nation building and the world’s problem. As if! No, we talked about other people instead. Wink. We are human being, we do that.

Abi called in the middle of dinner. He actually wished our celebrated friend, “There goes your freedom.” Yeah I guess so, too. Your time is up, dude. Anyway, congratulations! I hope for only the finest things on your engagement and wedding days. And may we always stay the good bunch sharing drinks and gossips. Hear, hear.

We left Chili’s when it was getting late. And realized that tomorrow was still working day. And remembered that my girl friend and I needed to pack up stuffs for our trip to Singapore after work. Uhuh, we were driving down to see my husband on Friday evening.

Hey roomie, here we come!