Thursday, 14 June 2007
Thanks for the tag, Lion City Girl. I have been thinking what is my favourite dish since you tagged me on the 4 June and until today couldn't come up with one to share yet. When I do I will update this blog.
Meanwhile, I am tagging:
(1) Lyanne
(2) Anthony
(3) Ivy
(4) Iain
Instructions:
**Start Copy**
Proposition: What is your favorite food in your state or country?
Requirements: Find some info about the food and show delicious pictures of it
Quantity: FIVE PEOPLE.
Tag Mode: You leave their blog and post link and add to the list below.
Mybabybay loves Asam Laksa from Penang, Malaysia
JustMyThoughts loves Penang Char Koay Teow
My Lil Venture loves Laksa Sarawak
Montessorimum loves Teluk Intan Chee Cheong Fun
Health Freak Mommy loves Dim Sum from KL, Malaysia
Mama's Bag of Tricks loves Hakka Mee from Serem
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Grandmother
Sunday, 3 June 2007
It felt funny being called "Grandma Irene". That was what 6 years old Sheridan addressed me. 9 days ago, on the 25 May, I was emotional and homesick. Except for my precious Lian, this was the first time I have another little girl, under my roof,
to take care full time. It has been a long time ago. I was then not a grandma yet but a mother. It brought back memories - the things that I do with Lian - getting her to eat, drink, bath, dress, sleep. The conversations, the outings, the playing time, etc. The list is endless. It was then that I felt I missed Lian so much that words could not express it. I wish then that she would always stay close to me forever and ever, so that I could watch over her.
to take care full time. It has been a long time ago. I was then not a grandma yet but a mother. It brought back memories - the things that I do with Lian - getting her to eat, drink, bath, dress, sleep. The conversations, the outings, the playing time, etc. The list is endless. It was then that I felt I missed Lian so much that words could not express it. I wish then that she would always stay close to me forever and ever, so that I could watch over her.Today, I was emotional and homesick again. It was the end of Sheridan's stay and she was going back to her mother. It was today that I really understood what my own mother felt as a grandmother. Why my mother did what she did, for her grandchildren. I didn't understand before. I had asked her over and over why she didn't scold them when I thought they were not reasonable, why she prefered to be looking after them instead of enjoying herself. She never tried to explain because she knew I would understand when I become a 'grandmother' myself.
I finally understood and I can't help my tears dropping. Was it my hormones playing on me again? I was really emotional when I recalled how my mother unselfishlessly and lovingly looked after her youngest grandchild during the past 2 years, whenever his parents were out.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Mother's Day
Sunday, 13 May 2007
Back home, in our families, we don't celebrate Mother's Day. Where Mum and Dad comes from they don't celebrate that or the Father's Day, Valentine's Day. Not that I know of.
According to Wikipedia, one school of thought claims this day emerged from a custom of mother worship in ancient Greece. And it is celebrated on different days by different countries.
In a way, setting it apart, is good. It serves a purpose, especially for people who are so bogged down with their busy routines that they do not have the time to phone their mothers, to visit them, to talk to them, to write to them, to accompany them for walks, to take them for rides, holidays, dinners, etc. etc.
Definitely the opportunity for the business people to advertise their products, be it breakfast, lunches, dinners, flowers, cookwares, furnitures, computers, etc. etc. - that you could buy for your mother to express your appreciation and love, etc. etc. According to a survey, Mother's Day is now the most popular day of the year to dine out at a restaurant. I was thinking how do some of the less fortunate and lonely single mothers feel when their friends relate to them what their children gave to them on this day, while they were struggling with their own livelihood.
As I listened to the talks given by a young lady and a young 'grandmother' at sacrament this morning, my thoughts went to my mother, her life, her strengths, her struggles, her sacrifices and the time we spent together before she was afflicted by the terrible brainstem infarct. I know and I shouldn't, but I wish Heavenly Father would just bring her home to Him because for me she is gone, gone gone, gone, even though her mortal body is still alive. I am not angry with Him but I really pity my mother and Caroline who takes care of her so well.
Mum, I am sorry, I am hopeless when it comes to taking care of you now. I am good in sitting together with you watching the television, listening to you while you talk, accompanying you at home or taking you to places, etc. I pray that you will not be angry with me and I pray that I will stay faithful to the covenants that I have made with Heavenly Father that I would stay faithful to the end so that I would be worthy to be reunited with you when the Lord comes.
Back home, in our families, we don't celebrate Mother's Day. Where Mum and Dad comes from they don't celebrate that or the Father's Day, Valentine's Day. Not that I know of.
According to Wikipedia, one school of thought claims this day emerged from a custom of mother worship in ancient Greece. And it is celebrated on different days by different countries.
In a way, setting it apart, is good. It serves a purpose, especially for people who are so bogged down with their busy routines that they do not have the time to phone their mothers, to visit them, to talk to them, to write to them, to accompany them for walks, to take them for rides, holidays, dinners, etc. etc.
Definitely the opportunity for the business people to advertise their products, be it breakfast, lunches, dinners, flowers, cookwares, furnitures, computers, etc. etc. - that you could buy for your mother to express your appreciation and love, etc. etc. According to a survey, Mother's Day is now the most popular day of the year to dine out at a restaurant. I was thinking how do some of the less fortunate and lonely single mothers feel when their friends relate to them what their children gave to them on this day, while they were struggling with their own livelihood.
As I listened to the talks given by a young lady and a young 'grandmother' at sacrament this morning, my thoughts went to my mother, her life, her strengths, her struggles, her sacrifices and the time we spent together before she was afflicted by the terrible brainstem infarct. I know and I shouldn't, but I wish Heavenly Father would just bring her home to Him because for me she is gone, gone gone, gone, even though her mortal body is still alive. I am not angry with Him but I really pity my mother and Caroline who takes care of her so well.
Mum, I am sorry, I am hopeless when it comes to taking care of you now. I am good in sitting together with you watching the television, listening to you while you talk, accompanying you at home or taking you to places, etc. I pray that you will not be angry with me and I pray that I will stay faithful to the covenants that I have made with Heavenly Father that I would stay faithful to the end so that I would be worthy to be reunited with you when the Lord comes.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Happy Birthday to Me
Wednesday, 9 May 2007
Happy Birthday to me! Today marks the start of my 10th year in the church. Yup - I was baptised on the 9 May 1998 in the Miri branch by Elder Witcomb. He and Elder Redd were the first missionaries that I met. Less than 2 weeks of acquaintance, Elder Redd was transferred and Elder Quinn came. First couple missionaries that I got to admire and love were Elder and Sister Folsom from Canada, who were fondly addressed and remembered as Grandpa and Grandma by the then small number of members.
I am thankful for my membership. Staying on the strait and narrow path isn't easy but nevertheless a blessing of discovery, experience and growth in the gospel and oneself. I am grateful that Lian and Yean were receptive to the gospel as well. It feels wonderful to go to church together.
Happy Birthday to me! Today marks the start of my 10th year in the church. Yup - I was baptised on the 9 May 1998 in the Miri branch by Elder Witcomb. He and Elder Redd were the first missionaries that I met. Less than 2 weeks of acquaintance, Elder Redd was transferred and Elder Quinn came. First couple missionaries that I got to admire and love were Elder and Sister Folsom from Canada, who were fondly addressed and remembered as Grandpa and Grandma by the then small number of members.
I am thankful for my membership. Staying on the strait and narrow path isn't easy but nevertheless a blessing of discovery, experience and growth in the gospel and oneself. I am grateful that Lian and Yean were receptive to the gospel as well. It feels wonderful to go to church together.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
The On/Off Modem Button
Wednesday, 25 April 2007
Here I go again! Lift ignorance and now computer operations ignorance!
Exclamation mark on the computers icon said "local network - unlimited or no connectivity". I tried in a different room, it is still the same. All the wiring connections were checked. I heeded the computer prompting to "repair" but it couldn't repair and next prompted me to contact network provider. I called the network provider. A recorded message said there was service interruption in another state. I wondered whether that has affected the network connection in this area. A female staff, answering my call to the technical services, said it does, without asking me any questions.
Services was not "restored" in the afternoon so I gave up using the internet for the day.
This morning, I checked all my wiring connections - electrical, telephone again. I pull them out and insert them again! I phoned the network provider again. No recorded message of service interruption anywhere. This time, a male technician answered my call. He asked a few questions and guided me as to what to type on the computer so as to find out what exactly was wrong. He told me that the modem is not working. I agreed with him. There was not a single light on the modem. He said I could buy a new one at any computer shop.
Few minutes later, I remembered what I was told before and done before, probably a month or so ago. A network technician had told me about a button on the modem and had ask me to reset. It has worked before, with my own personal modem. But with this modem, I could see a 'reset' hole but there was nothing to reset.
There is a button on the side of this modem. What do I see? The push button was out. And of course there is no connection! I pushed in the button. The PWR, DSL and the LAN lights came on. Stupid me. There was nothing wrong with the network, nothing wrong with the system, nothing wrong with the wiring. It is stupid me again - didn't use my head again!
I phoned the network technician and we had a good laugh. He also learnt a lesson from there - to ask the customer to check all her connections and switches.
Here I go again! Lift ignorance and now computer operations ignorance!
Exclamation mark on the computers icon said "local network - unlimited or no connectivity". I tried in a different room, it is still the same. All the wiring connections were checked. I heeded the computer prompting to "repair" but it couldn't repair and next prompted me to contact network provider. I called the network provider. A recorded message said there was service interruption in another state. I wondered whether that has affected the network connection in this area. A female staff, answering my call to the technical services, said it does, without asking me any questions.
Services was not "restored" in the afternoon so I gave up using the internet for the day.
This morning, I checked all my wiring connections - electrical, telephone again. I pull them out and insert them again! I phoned the network provider again. No recorded message of service interruption anywhere. This time, a male technician answered my call. He asked a few questions and guided me as to what to type on the computer so as to find out what exactly was wrong. He told me that the modem is not working. I agreed with him. There was not a single light on the modem. He said I could buy a new one at any computer shop.
Few minutes later, I remembered what I was told before and done before, probably a month or so ago. A network technician had told me about a button on the modem and had ask me to reset. It has worked before, with my own personal modem. But with this modem, I could see a 'reset' hole but there was nothing to reset.
There is a button on the side of this modem. What do I see? The push button was out. And of course there is no connection! I pushed in the button. The PWR, DSL and the LAN lights came on. Stupid me. There was nothing wrong with the network, nothing wrong with the system, nothing wrong with the wiring. It is stupid me again - didn't use my head again!I phoned the network technician and we had a good laugh. He also learnt a lesson from there - to ask the customer to check all her connections and switches.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Lift Ignorance
In July 2005, I wrote about a lift confusion. This time it is lift ignorance.
It was the first time I visited the
Being alone in the lift, I was getting panicky. What is wrong? Before I got to press the ‘Emergency’ button. I heard ladies voices inside the lift. Looked up the walls on my right, my left and in front, but there wasn't any video cameras. Where are the voices from? I could not make out what they were saying until a few minutes have passed when I realised that they were saying “behind, behind”.
It was then I turned around to the back and realised that I was supposed to go out of the doors opposite to the doors I came in. Nobody was using the lift, except for me, for that few minutes and the doors had remained wide open, waiting for me to get out! I noticed there were no control panel board on this side of the wall.
There were 2 female nurses & 2 other female hospital assistants behind & in front of the reception counter all looking at me and smiling. I can’t help laughing at myself for being so naive to lifts!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
It is okay
I know! If I brought the watch to the shop, they would have dried up any moisture trapped inside with a blower or something. It was just not my luck that the technician was out when I visited and still out when I returned a while later. Anyway I am happy it is still working. Even if it is not working, that is okay too because it is not lost. Thanks to the heat from the sun and the car. I think leaving it inside the car under the cover on the front panel, for the past days, had done the job.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Surprise Hug
Sunday, 18 March 2007
How would you feel if a 5 year old boy rush to you, put his arms around your legs and bury his head there for a minute or so? If it is your son, your grandson, your nephew or someone you played with often, maybe you wouldn't be taken by surprise.
I have been away for 5 Sundays and it was indeed a pleasant surprise, coming from him, a boy that I occasionally sent home, together with his elder sister, after the block meetings.
Have he mistaken me for someone? Or he just has a liking to me and missed me?
How would you feel if a 5 year old boy rush to you, put his arms around your legs and bury his head there for a minute or so? If it is your son, your grandson, your nephew or someone you played with often, maybe you wouldn't be taken by surprise.
I have been away for 5 Sundays and it was indeed a pleasant surprise, coming from him, a boy that I occasionally sent home, together with his elder sister, after the block meetings.
Have he mistaken me for someone? Or he just has a liking to me and missed me?
Friday, March 16, 2007
My 'Camy' Watch
Saturday, 17 March 2007
Forgetful me! Where was my wrist watch? It was not on the shelf - that was where I would home it! Gosh! Thursday night I had removed it from my wrist and slipped it into the pocket of my skirt! Friday (yesterday) morning the skirt was soaked for 2 hours, then machine washed and spun. I didn't checked the pocket before I soaked it in the pail neither did I checked it when I hanged it up to dry! As I feared, it was in the pocket.
It is an old mechanical/automatic watch. It wouldn't sell in the market. There is no monetary value in it, but it is of sentimental value to me because my mother gave it to me.
I pulled out the winding knob and turned the minute hand to when it should read, pushed back the knob and winded it. The second hand moved! It was still working!
As time passed, water vapours appeared on the inside of the face glass. As advised I buried it in the raw rice grains and left it buried overnight. There were no water vapours when I retrieved it this morning but they appeared again when I wore it on my wrist. I dried it under the sun. I placed it near my gas burner while food was cooking on the stove. I wonder when it would be dry completely and I hoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooope and pray that it will continue to function.
Forgetful me! Where was my wrist watch? It was not on the shelf - that was where I would home it! Gosh! Thursday night I had removed it from my wrist and slipped it into the pocket of my skirt! Friday (yesterday) morning the skirt was soaked for 2 hours, then machine washed and spun. I didn't checked the pocket before I soaked it in the pail neither did I checked it when I hanged it up to dry! As I feared, it was in the pocket.
It is an old mechanical/automatic watch. It wouldn't sell in the market. There is no monetary value in it, but it is of sentimental value to me because my mother gave it to me.
I pulled out the winding knob and turned the minute hand to when it should read, pushed back the knob and winded it. The second hand moved! It was still working!
As time passed, water vapours appeared on the inside of the face glass. As advised I buried it in the raw rice grains and left it buried overnight. There were no water vapours when I retrieved it this morning but they appeared again when I wore it on my wrist. I dried it under the sun. I placed it near my gas burner while food was cooking on the stove. I wonder when it would be dry completely and I hoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooope and pray that it will continue to function.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Kumquat Tree
Tuesday, 13 March 2007
What a beautiful kumquat tree! So many fruits! I saw that at the patio of my friend's house in Kota Kinabalu.
People like to buy these plants to decorate their house during the Chinese New Year.
The fruits look like small oranges. They can be eaten but I don't really like the taste.
What a beautiful kumquat tree! So many fruits! I saw that at the patio of my friend's house in Kota Kinabalu.
People like to buy these plants to decorate their house during the Chinese New Year.
The fruits look like small oranges. They can be eaten but I don't really like the taste.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Exhausting Intercity Bus Rides
Monday, 5 March 2007
What a weekend, starting from Thursday midnight to Sunday midnight! Travelling by train, express bus, ferry, car, shuttle bus, cable car and boat. I went with Lian, Yean and Aisah to Langkawi. I have created a different blog on the visit. You can read them also in Lian's and Yean's blog.
The bus ride from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Perlis and vice-versa was an experience indeed. It was cheap fare-wise but it was tiring time-wise.
It didn't take as long as the bus ride that I took last May from Miri to Kuching. That was 14 hours while these weekend bus rides was 7-8 hours. We got to stop at various bus terminals along the way and stretch ourselves during the 14-hour ride while yesterday night's 8-hour ride stopped only at 2 bus stations and 1 rest station. I sure felt very exhausted, and by the time I arrived back to the condo, I felt like I was floating.
I didn't dare to drink too much either whenever I use the express buses because there were no toilet in the bus, so that is my problem.
I am not sure I would like to go on the bus ride again to Langkawi. Maybe after a few years, I may be in the sport to do that again.
What a weekend, starting from Thursday midnight to Sunday midnight! Travelling by train, express bus, ferry, car, shuttle bus, cable car and boat. I went with Lian, Yean and Aisah to Langkawi. I have created a different blog on the visit. You can read them also in Lian's and Yean's blog.
The bus ride from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Perlis and vice-versa was an experience indeed. It was cheap fare-wise but it was tiring time-wise.
It didn't take as long as the bus ride that I took last May from Miri to Kuching. That was 14 hours while these weekend bus rides was 7-8 hours. We got to stop at various bus terminals along the way and stretch ourselves during the 14-hour ride while yesterday night's 8-hour ride stopped only at 2 bus stations and 1 rest station. I sure felt very exhausted, and by the time I arrived back to the condo, I felt like I was floating.
I didn't dare to drink too much either whenever I use the express buses because there were no toilet in the bus, so that is my problem.
I am not sure I would like to go on the bus ride again to Langkawi. Maybe after a few years, I may be in the sport to do that again.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Tanjung Golden Village Cineplex
Thursday, 28 February 2007
I have written about watching movies on the big screen on the 9 January 2007. And here I go rambling again!
My daughter has been wanting to see '"Dreamgirls" for the past week and we finally saw it tonight at the TGV (Tanjung Golden Village) Cineplex.
I am so glad that Lian's friend got us tickets to watch the movie at TGV (Tanjung Golden Village) Cineplex because this would be my first time watching movie at TGV Cineplex. And interestingly, the cinema is the largest TGV cineplex in Malaysia. It is located on the 3rd floor of the Suria KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) shopping complex.
I have watched 3 movies at the Golden Screen Cinemas (in Kota Kinabalu - Sabah, Leisure Mall - Cheras, Kuala Lumpur and Berjaya Times Square - Kuala Lumpur). And interestingly, the GSC in Kota Kinabalu is the first GSC to operate in Malaysia. It was opened on the 14 July 1981.
'Dreamgirls" is a Broadway musical film, released on the 22 February 2007 on the GSC. I enjoyed it. Thanks to Lian. "Sound of Music" - my favourite musical film happened to be from Broadway too!
I have written about watching movies on the big screen on the 9 January 2007. And here I go rambling again!
My daughter has been wanting to see '"Dreamgirls" for the past week and we finally saw it tonight at the TGV (Tanjung Golden Village) Cineplex.
I am so glad that Lian's friend got us tickets to watch the movie at TGV (Tanjung Golden Village) Cineplex because this would be my first time watching movie at TGV Cineplex. And interestingly, the cinema is the largest TGV cineplex in Malaysia. It is located on the 3rd floor of the Suria KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) shopping complex.
I have watched 3 movies at the Golden Screen Cinemas (in Kota Kinabalu - Sabah, Leisure Mall - Cheras, Kuala Lumpur and Berjaya Times Square - Kuala Lumpur). And interestingly, the GSC in Kota Kinabalu is the first GSC to operate in Malaysia. It was opened on the 14 July 1981.
'Dreamgirls" is a Broadway musical film, released on the 22 February 2007 on the GSC. I enjoyed it. Thanks to Lian. "Sound of Music" - my favourite musical film happened to be from Broadway too!
Friday, February 23, 2007
Ang Pow
Saturday, 24 February 2007
*Ang* in the Hokkien dialect means "Red colour". *Pow* in the Hokkien dialect means
"Wrap". The world knows that *Ang Pow* means "Red Packets". It means $$$.
If it is a white coloured envelope with donation inside it, it is not called *Ang Pow*. it is called *Pek Kim*. *Pek* in the Hokkien dialect means "White" and *Kim* in the Hokkien dialect means "gold". That is only given to bereaved families, who have lost a loved one to death.
For the Chinese, the colour Red is associated with happiness, power and triumph, while the colour white is associated with saddness, defeat. That is why we don't use red (and yellow) during a funeral ceremony.
Anyway, talking about *Ang Pow*. In my last visit to Kota Kinabalu last month, Chee Yun casually told me that she collects Ang Pows. I asked her why? Isn't that a stupid question? Just
because I don't have the interest to collect doesn't mean nobody else collects!! She also casually told me that if I get back to Miri, bring whatever I can spare to her.
I search through and kept 1 of each design. I did the same here in Kuala Lumpur, with what the children already have and what they were given during this festive season. I am going to give them all to her in less than 2 weeks' time! I know she would be very pleased.
I know what I have done and give will definitely bring a glow to her face because it is her interest and it makes her happy.
*Ang* in the Hokkien dialect means "Red colour". *Pow* in the Hokkien dialect means
"Wrap". The world knows that *Ang Pow* means "Red Packets". It means $$$. If it is a white coloured envelope with donation inside it, it is not called *Ang Pow*. it is called *Pek Kim*. *Pek* in the Hokkien dialect means "White" and *Kim* in the Hokkien dialect means "gold". That is only given to bereaved families, who have lost a loved one to death.
For the Chinese, the colour Red is associated with happiness, power and triumph, while the colour white is associated with saddness, defeat. That is why we don't use red (and yellow) during a funeral ceremony.
Anyway, talking about *Ang Pow*. In my last visit to Kota Kinabalu last month, Chee Yun casually told me that she collects Ang Pows. I asked her why? Isn't that a stupid question? Just
because I don't have the interest to collect doesn't mean nobody else collects!! She also casually told me that if I get back to Miri, bring whatever I can spare to her.I search through and kept 1 of each design. I did the same here in Kuala Lumpur, with what the children already have and what they were given during this festive season. I am going to give them all to her in less than 2 weeks' time! I know she would be very pleased.
I know what I have done and give will definitely bring a glow to her face because it is her interest and it makes her happy.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Valentine's Day - 2007
Wednesday, 14 February 2007
A good friend sent this to me last week. I asked whether I could copy this interesting story to my blog. What other day is more appropriate than posting it today, since it is Valentine's Day here in Malaysia.
his place. They found an appropriate choice in Valentine, who, in AD 270 had been beheaded by Emperor Claudius.
Happy Valentine's Day!!
A good friend sent this to me last week. I asked whether I could copy this interesting story to my blog. What other day is more appropriate than posting it today, since it is Valentine's Day here in Malaysia.
February 14 is Valentine's Day. Although it is celebrated as a lovers' holiday today, with the giving of candy, flowers, or other gifts between couples in love, it originated in 5th Century
Rome as a tribute to St. Valentine, a Catholic bishop.
For eight hundred years prior to the establishment of Valentine's Day, the Romans had practiced a pagan celebration in mid-February commemorating young men's rite of passage to the god Lupercus. The celebration featured a lottery in which young men would draw the names of teenage girls from a box. The girl assigned to each young man in that manner would be his sexual companion during the remaining year.
In an effort to do away with the pagan festival, Pope Gelasius ordered a slight change in the lottery. Instead of the names of young women, the box would contain the names of saints. Both men and women were allowed to draw from the box, and the game was to emulate the ways of the saint they drew during the rest of the year. Needless to say, many of the young Roman men were not too pleased with the rule changes.
Instead of the pagan god Lupercus, the Church looked for a suitable patron saint of love to take
his place. They found an appropriate choice in Valentine, who, in AD 270 had been beheaded by Emperor Claudius.Claudius had determined that married men made poor soldiers. So he banned marriage from his empire. But Valentine would secretly marry young men that came to him. When Claudius found out about Valentine, he first tried to convert him to paganism. But Valentine reversed the strategy, trying instead to convert Claudius. When he failed, he was stoned and beheaded.
During the days that Valentine was imprisoned, he fell in love with the blind daughter of his jailer. His love for her, and his great faith, managed to miraculously heal her from her blindness before his death. Before he was taken to his death, he signed a farewell message to her, "From your Valentine." The phrase has been used on his day ever since.
Although the lottery for women had been banned by the church, the mid-February holiday in commemoration of St. Valentine was still used by Roman men to seek the affection of women. It became a tradition for the men to give the ones they admired handwritten messages of affection, containing Valentine's name.
Cupid, another symbol of the holiday, became associated with it because he was the son of Venus, the Roman god of love and beauty. Cupid often appears on Valentine cards.
Happy Valentine's Day!!
Monday, February 05, 2007
Gosh! I am 250 years old!
Finally I switched to the New Blogger, using the Google account. Didn't dare to switch before because I was scare that it would affect the postings that were already in place. It wasn't a choice because I don't know what I did yesterday and I was prompted to switch before I could continue. And I did!
I like the New Blogger!! I am glad it didn't affect the template, layouts, etc. The only thing that caught my eyes was I have an age in my profile. I didn't reveal my year of birth. I don't want my age to be shown. But it said: Age: 250
Gosh! You might think that I did that on purpose! I didn't! It must be the switching bug - In the year box was the number 1757!! Hey! I don't remember anyone in this dispensation of time to live that long. I would be 6 feet underground.
I like the New Blogger!! I am glad it didn't affect the template, layouts, etc. The only thing that caught my eyes was I have an age in my profile. I didn't reveal my year of birth. I don't want my age to be shown. But it said: Age: 250
Gosh! You might think that I did that on purpose! I didn't! It must be the switching bug - In the year box was the number 1757!! Hey! I don't remember anyone in this dispensation of time to live that long. I would be 6 feet underground.
Car Hopping
This is a once-off incident, that I have not gotten out of my system, and I thought I better write it down before my aging mind forgets. It is nothing near to a fear factor but it is one of the most daring things that I have done, on the spur of a moment!
Saturday, 14 September 2002
I can't imagine myself doing that ever again!!
Saturday, 14 September 2002
Time to treat ourselves after a week’s of physical and mental work. Physical because we danced practically from morning to night to master the steps and mentally because we had to remember the sequence and the steps to the extent that we could dance on our own, before the teacher leaves.
From Monday to Friday, we have been busy learning 9 dances. Teacher Maria had flown in from Miri to teach us how to use fans, scarfs & umbrella to dance and it was time for us to let our hair down and relax.
We were going to a High Tea at the Promenade Hotel, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah.
There were 5 of us in one car and driving slowly towards the traffic lights. We were excited when we realised that the car that drove up alongside was driven by one of our friends, who we knew was also heading for the High Tea. She was alone in the car.
I can't imagine myself doing that ever again!!
Monday, January 29, 2007
Know Yourself
Saturday, 27 January 2007
This is fun. You will know yourself better after the exercise. I thought I post it in my blog. Try it and pass it on if you like. Just replace your own answers.
1. FIRST NAME: Irene
2. WERE YOU NAME AFTER ANYONE? No
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Yesterday, on my way back from mum's place. Thinking about mum - not being able to communicate, can't see, can't talk, can't move, can't response when I asked her to, trapped in a body that she has been active for the last 80 years, don't know how long she will be in this state of helplessness and when God will relieve her of her affliction - breaks my heart.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes, it is readable.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE LUNCH MEAT? Lunch meat? Meat for lunch? I don't care for lunch meat. Don't care about lunch either.
6. KIDS? No kids now. I have 2 beautiful grown up children, one girl and one boy.
7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes, I like me. I am a child of God. Everyone is unique and special.
8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? I have a diary, though I don't have the good habit of writing every night.
9. DO YOU USE SARCASM? I am no good in this. I guess not.
10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? I don't remember havng my tonsils taken out. Can't ask Dad. He has gone over the veil. Can't ask Mum. She can't response to me now.
11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No, thanks. I am afraid of heights. I will die of heart attack on the jumping platform before I even try.
12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? I hardly take cereal. I eat rice or bread.
13. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Physically, I am not. I think I am strong in certain characteristics.
14. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Don't know. When I have to make a choice, I don't know which one to choose.
15. SHOE SIZE? I don't know. If they fit and I like them, I buy them. They say different countries have different sizes. I have a pair of shoes that is 6 and a half, another 6, another pair that is 38, and another that is 36. I have a pair that is 5 and a half. They all fit!
16. RED OR PINK? I like red when I was younger but I prefer pink now.
17. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My eyes. I wish I have better vision. Have been using spectacles since I was 7 years old. Anyway, it is a blessing in disguise because I think I would be so preoccupied with sweeping the floors all the time because I am very particular about my floors being clean.
18. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Mum.
19. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Only those I emailed or tagged.
20. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOUR WEARING? Right now? Flora pants. Indoor slippers.
21. LAST THING YOU ATE? Captain's instant oats with Anlene low fat milk.
22. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The fan blowing and the computer.
23. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Depends what I am going to be used for.
24. FAVORITE SMELL? Rose. Babies, just bathed, lotioned/powdered.
25. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Janet.
26. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? Friendliness.
27. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SEND THIS TO YOU? Yes, I do. Very much. I admire her very much.
28. FAVORITE SPORT? Swimming as recreational, though I have participated in competition. Because of my spectacles, I was scare of taking part in sports when I was in school. I played softball once, participated in tug-of-wars. I think that it is all I did on the field. I like to watch though.
29. EYE COLOR? Brown
30. HAT SIZE? I don't know.
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Once, when I thought they would make me beautiful. I didn't like it. The thought of placing the soft lens onto my eye balls day after day, and other procedures associated with it, is not my cup of tea. I am too clumpsy. I am happy with the ordinary type of spectacles.
32. FAVORITE FOOD? Fresh green leafy vegetables stir-fried with garlic.
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Depends on my mood.
34. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Green, v-shaped blouse.
35. SUMMER OR WINTER? I am scare of the cold. Do I have any other choices beside Summer?
36. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs and plenty of it.
37. FAVORITE DESSERT? Agar Agar
38. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Lyanne, Anthony, Iain and Michael.
39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? ?????
40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Haven't read much lately, except for the standard works of the church.
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Watched a Shaolin movie at mum's place yeterday afternoon.
42. FAVORITE SOUND? I said "a child singing" - I take it back. When I read this again. I am not sure what my favorite sound is. I like the sound of soft music in the air. I like the sound of a little child saying "mummy". I like the sound of my daughter practising her guitar.
43. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES? Beatles.
44. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? United Kingdom (1994).
45. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? You guess when - I am a Leo. Born on the 25 July, in an island of Borneo (don't worry, I am not born on the tree and I don't live on the trees. My parents are not headhunters!)
46. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Sister Marsha.
47. NAME ONE PLACE YOU WANT TO GO THAT YOU NEVER HAVE BEEN? USA
This is fun. You will know yourself better after the exercise. I thought I post it in my blog. Try it and pass it on if you like. Just replace your own answers.
1. FIRST NAME: Irene
2. WERE YOU NAME AFTER ANYONE? No
3. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Yesterday, on my way back from mum's place. Thinking about mum - not being able to communicate, can't see, can't talk, can't move, can't response when I asked her to, trapped in a body that she has been active for the last 80 years, don't know how long she will be in this state of helplessness and when God will relieve her of her affliction - breaks my heart.
4. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Yes, it is readable.
5. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE LUNCH MEAT? Lunch meat? Meat for lunch? I don't care for lunch meat. Don't care about lunch either.
6. KIDS? No kids now. I have 2 beautiful grown up children, one girl and one boy.
7. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes, I like me. I am a child of God. Everyone is unique and special.
8. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? I have a diary, though I don't have the good habit of writing every night.
9. DO YOU USE SARCASM? I am no good in this. I guess not.
10. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? I don't remember havng my tonsils taken out. Can't ask Dad. He has gone over the veil. Can't ask Mum. She can't response to me now.
11. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No, thanks. I am afraid of heights. I will die of heart attack on the jumping platform before I even try.
12. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? I hardly take cereal. I eat rice or bread.
13. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Physically, I am not. I think I am strong in certain characteristics.
14. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Don't know. When I have to make a choice, I don't know which one to choose.
15. SHOE SIZE? I don't know. If they fit and I like them, I buy them. They say different countries have different sizes. I have a pair of shoes that is 6 and a half, another 6, another pair that is 38, and another that is 36. I have a pair that is 5 and a half. They all fit!
16. RED OR PINK? I like red when I was younger but I prefer pink now.
17. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My eyes. I wish I have better vision. Have been using spectacles since I was 7 years old. Anyway, it is a blessing in disguise because I think I would be so preoccupied with sweeping the floors all the time because I am very particular about my floors being clean.
18. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Mum.
19. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Only those I emailed or tagged.
20. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOUR WEARING? Right now? Flora pants. Indoor slippers.
21. LAST THING YOU ATE? Captain's instant oats with Anlene low fat milk.
22. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The fan blowing and the computer.
23. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Depends what I am going to be used for.
24. FAVORITE SMELL? Rose. Babies, just bathed, lotioned/powdered.
25. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? Janet.
26. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE YOU ARE ATTRACTED TO? Friendliness.
27. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SEND THIS TO YOU? Yes, I do. Very much. I admire her very much.
28. FAVORITE SPORT? Swimming as recreational, though I have participated in competition. Because of my spectacles, I was scare of taking part in sports when I was in school. I played softball once, participated in tug-of-wars. I think that it is all I did on the field. I like to watch though.
29. EYE COLOR? Brown
30. HAT SIZE? I don't know.
31. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Once, when I thought they would make me beautiful. I didn't like it. The thought of placing the soft lens onto my eye balls day after day, and other procedures associated with it, is not my cup of tea. I am too clumpsy. I am happy with the ordinary type of spectacles.
32. FAVORITE FOOD? Fresh green leafy vegetables stir-fried with garlic.
33. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Depends on my mood.
34. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Green, v-shaped blouse.
35. SUMMER OR WINTER? I am scare of the cold. Do I have any other choices beside Summer?
36. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs and plenty of it.
37. FAVORITE DESSERT? Agar Agar
38. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Lyanne, Anthony, Iain and Michael.
39. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? ?????
40. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? Haven't read much lately, except for the standard works of the church.
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Watched a Shaolin movie at mum's place yeterday afternoon.
42. FAVORITE SOUND? I said "a child singing" - I take it back. When I read this again. I am not sure what my favorite sound is. I like the sound of soft music in the air. I like the sound of a little child saying "mummy". I like the sound of my daughter practising her guitar.
43. ROLLING STONE OR BEATLES? Beatles.
44. THE FURTHEST YOU'VE BEEN FROM HOME? United Kingdom (1994).
45. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? You guess when - I am a Leo. Born on the 25 July, in an island of Borneo (don't worry, I am not born on the tree and I don't live on the trees. My parents are not headhunters!)
46. WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Sister Marsha.
47. NAME ONE PLACE YOU WANT TO GO THAT YOU NEVER HAVE BEEN? USA
Monday, January 08, 2007
Watching Movies on the Big Screen
Tuesday, 9 January 2007
Happy New Year! My first posting for 2007. I was thinking what it is like watching movies back in the past and the present millennium.
Before I turned into a teenager, my 2 younger brothers and me often go into the Lutong Cinema on Saturday afternoons and watched movies, free of charge. The cinema was only a few minutes walk from our home. We saw all kinds of movies and luckily at that time, there were no obscene acts!
There were 3 entrances into the hall, which led to 3 different priced seats. We are bless with a fatherly figure, who was familiar with the 3 of us, who knew our parents, who checked tickets at the entrance leading to the cheapest price seats, would let the 3 of us in, once the light inside the hall were off. We would then look for empty seats. Sometimes we sit in the front rows because they were the only rows that were the least popular therefore less occupied being too close to the screen. Most times we could find seats further away from the screen and also among the highest priced seats!!
Watching movies on the big screen is fun. There were no television then so there was nothing to compared with. I enjoyed the "Sound of Music" (1965, starring Julie Andrews) very much. Went to see with my brothers, went with my classmates and went with Dad in the Lutong and the Miri cinemas. It was shown in the cinema for a number of weeks. I can't remember how long. We now have DVDs of the movie, at home. It has remain my favourite film. But I think I would enjoy better on the big screen!
Technology increased - the quality and sound of the movies improved as the time passed. Watching "Jurassic Park" (1993) in a cinema in Melbourne was indeed an experience for me. It was the first time Lian and Yean, who were only 12 and 7 years old respectively have their first experience of watching a movie on the big screen. It was as if we were inside the Jurassic Park!! The animals looked so real!
Likewise, we enjoyed "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000, starring Chow Yun Fatt) at a Golden Screen cinema in Kota Kinabalu.
Recently I got the opportunity to watch movies at the Golden Screen cinemas again!
Wednesday, 3 January 2007
I should thank Brother Nelson for this. We had the tickets, he couldn't attend the show because he had to work, so I jumped in. Friday's show was sad but today's was sheer hilarious. Released 28 December 2006, "Night at the Museum" to me is a very good show for the whole family. I don't mind watching it again!! Also, this is my first time at the Golden Screen cinema in Mid Valley Megamall - Kuala Lumpur.
Friday, 29 December 2006
Thanks to Yean, I got to watch "Curse of the Golden Flower" at the Golden Screen cinema in Leisure Mall in Cheras-Kuala Lumpur.
Released 21 December 2006, it is deemed as the most expensive Chinese film to date (budget $45 million), chosen as China's entry for the academy award for best foreign language film for the year 2006.
It is a tragic story that we see happening everywhere - the result of betrayal of trust and love in a family unit. What I don't like in the film is the clothes that the maids of the palace wore - the necklines are so low, which looked to me stopped just above their nipples with half of their breasts showing. I am sure that the ladies during that period do not dress like that!!! I hope that viewers do not get the impression that the Chinese girls are dressed that way in those times!
Happy New Year! My first posting for 2007. I was thinking what it is like watching movies back in the past and the present millennium.
Before I turned into a teenager, my 2 younger brothers and me often go into the Lutong Cinema on Saturday afternoons and watched movies, free of charge. The cinema was only a few minutes walk from our home. We saw all kinds of movies and luckily at that time, there were no obscene acts!
There were 3 entrances into the hall, which led to 3 different priced seats. We are bless with a fatherly figure, who was familiar with the 3 of us, who knew our parents, who checked tickets at the entrance leading to the cheapest price seats, would let the 3 of us in, once the light inside the hall were off. We would then look for empty seats. Sometimes we sit in the front rows because they were the only rows that were the least popular therefore less occupied being too close to the screen. Most times we could find seats further away from the screen and also among the highest priced seats!!
Watching movies on the big screen is fun. There were no television then so there was nothing to compared with. I enjoyed the "Sound of Music" (1965, starring Julie Andrews) very much. Went to see with my brothers, went with my classmates and went with Dad in the Lutong and the Miri cinemas. It was shown in the cinema for a number of weeks. I can't remember how long. We now have DVDs of the movie, at home. It has remain my favourite film. But I think I would enjoy better on the big screen!
Technology increased - the quality and sound of the movies improved as the time passed. Watching "Jurassic Park" (1993) in a cinema in Melbourne was indeed an experience for me. It was the first time Lian and Yean, who were only 12 and 7 years old respectively have their first experience of watching a movie on the big screen. It was as if we were inside the Jurassic Park!! The animals looked so real!
Likewise, we enjoyed "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" (2000, starring Chow Yun Fatt) at a Golden Screen cinema in Kota Kinabalu.
Recently I got the opportunity to watch movies at the Golden Screen cinemas again!
Wednesday, 3 January 2007
I should thank Brother Nelson for this. We had the tickets, he couldn't attend the show because he had to work, so I jumped in. Friday's show was sad but today's was sheer hilarious. Released 28 December 2006, "Night at the Museum" to me is a very good show for the whole family. I don't mind watching it again!! Also, this is my first time at the Golden Screen cinema in Mid Valley Megamall - Kuala Lumpur.
Friday, 29 December 2006
Thanks to Yean, I got to watch "Curse of the Golden Flower" at the Golden Screen cinema in Leisure Mall in Cheras-Kuala Lumpur.
Released 21 December 2006, it is deemed as the most expensive Chinese film to date (budget $45 million), chosen as China's entry for the academy award for best foreign language film for the year 2006.
It is a tragic story that we see happening everywhere - the result of betrayal of trust and love in a family unit. What I don't like in the film is the clothes that the maids of the palace wore - the necklines are so low, which looked to me stopped just above their nipples with half of their breasts showing. I am sure that the ladies during that period do not dress like that!!! I hope that viewers do not get the impression that the Chinese girls are dressed that way in those times!
Sunday, December 31, 2006
What to do with damaged currency notes?
Friday, 22 December 2006
A torn 50 MRinggit currency note. Don't know what happened to it. We found it among our late father's possession. The rest of the family said it cannot be used anymore. I can't believe my ears! 50 MRinggit may be nothing to the rich but it means a lot to the poor. There must be a system whereby the government would take back damaged currency notes - torn, scratched, scorched, smeared, etc.
Asked my friends, who worked in the banks. One told me maybe the bank that I frequent, might take it from me and give me a new 50 MRinggit note. Another said the only bank that would take it back is Bank Negara Malaysia (Central Bank of Malaysia). An officer in the bank that I frequented told me that only Bank Negara Malaysia would take it back and give me in return an amount, according to the damage.
In the state of Sarawak, the only BNM branch is in the capital city of Kuching - that is 1 hour by Boeing from Miri. In the neighbouring state of Sabah, the only branch is also in the capital city of Kota Kinabalu - that is 45 minutes by Boeing from Miri.
Well, since I am here in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, I had the opportunity to visit the head office at Jalan Dato' Onn. We were lost looking for it, since we have never been there before. Glad we were lost because it gave us the opportunity to discover places of interest that I have not been. And happier still I got 50 MRinggit, not more or less, for the torn currency note.
I met one elderly couple who brought notes that have been torn and worn out, and looked like the cockroaches have their share on them as well. I am glad that BNM will be exchanging them for new notes that they could use.
Now, we know where to go to if any of of our MRinggit notes are damaged. We can also bring any old notes, that are no more in circulation, that we do not wish to keep or collect!!
A torn 50 MRinggit currency note. Don't know what happened to it. We found it among our late father's possession. The rest of the family said it cannot be used anymore. I can't believe my ears! 50 MRinggit may be nothing to the rich but it means a lot to the poor. There must be a system whereby the government would take back damaged currency notes - torn, scratched, scorched, smeared, etc.
Asked my friends, who worked in the banks. One told me maybe the bank that I frequent, might take it from me and give me a new 50 MRinggit note. Another said the only bank that would take it back is Bank Negara Malaysia (Central Bank of Malaysia). An officer in the bank that I frequented told me that only Bank Negara Malaysia would take it back and give me in return an amount, according to the damage.In the state of Sarawak, the only BNM branch is in the capital city of Kuching - that is 1 hour by Boeing from Miri. In the neighbouring state of Sabah, the only branch is also in the capital city of Kota Kinabalu - that is 45 minutes by Boeing from Miri.
Well, since I am here in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, I had the opportunity to visit the head office at Jalan Dato' Onn. We were lost looking for it, since we have never been there before. Glad we were lost because it gave us the opportunity to discover places of interest that I have not been. And happier still I got 50 MRinggit, not more or less, for the torn currency note.
I met one elderly couple who brought notes that have been torn and worn out, and looked like the cockroaches have their share on them as well. I am glad that BNM will be exchanging them for new notes that they could use.
Now, we know where to go to if any of of our MRinggit notes are damaged. We can also bring any old notes, that are no more in circulation, that we do not wish to keep or collect!!
Monday, December 25, 2006
Christmas Presents
Monday, 25 December 2006
There is always a first time in whatever we do. For me, this is first time I spent Christmas in Kuala Lumpur and the first time opening Christmas presents on a Christmas morning! Thanks to Lian again.
The first thing she excitedly said when she sat down in the sitting room was "Let's open the Christmas presents". It was fun, looking at each other's expressions and sharing/feeling each other's joy with the presents we got for each other.
As we feel the love and joy of this special day, my thoughts go to those who are homeless, poor, sick and lonely. For some, this is not a public holiday, life is just another working day so that they could bring food on the table.
Thinking of the less fortunate, who are struggling to earn a honest living, I am reminded that there is no need to spend unncessarily. There is no need to buy anything that catches our eyes even though we could afford to and end up collecting dust! There is no need to throw money to pay expensive branded things and found out later that the less famous and expensive made are as good!
Whatever our circumstances are, and whoever we are, I am grateful for the Christmas present that Heavenly Father has given each and everyone of us, all because He loves us.
There is always a first time in whatever we do. For me, this is first time I spent Christmas in Kuala Lumpur and the first time opening Christmas presents on a Christmas morning! Thanks to Lian again.
The first thing she excitedly said when she sat down in the sitting room was "Let's open the Christmas presents". It was fun, looking at each other's expressions and sharing/feeling each other's joy with the presents we got for each other.
As we feel the love and joy of this special day, my thoughts go to those who are homeless, poor, sick and lonely. For some, this is not a public holiday, life is just another working day so that they could bring food on the table.
Thinking of the less fortunate, who are struggling to earn a honest living, I am reminded that there is no need to spend unncessarily. There is no need to buy anything that catches our eyes even though we could afford to and end up collecting dust! There is no need to throw money to pay expensive branded things and found out later that the less famous and expensive made are as good!
Whatever our circumstances are, and whoever we are, I am grateful for the Christmas present that Heavenly Father has given each and everyone of us, all because He loves us.
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