Star Gazing

My Rant

2011-11-06T19:16:00.003+08:00

It's been said that the truth hurts. Yes, I know and I embrace that, as the truth is supposed to set you free. Truth should not be delivered condescendingly and with arrogance. Every truth told deserves to be told with kindness and respect. There are different layers to every truth. The truth as you understand might be different from my truth. We have different perspectives and different interpretations of the truth. Tell the truth with integrity and honor - not a version of your truth.

I am not enraged by the truth. I can accept the truth and honesty. However, i am very angry at your presumptions of my truth. How dare you!!!!! Anger is not a healthy emotion, I dig that. I have been trying to be philosophical about your truth. At the end of the day, no one can carve my truth. I know the truth. The truth that matters to me. I shall live with my truth, thank you very much. You might not be happy with my truth - so be it. Accept it with humility and grace. Leave me be!

Someone like you

2011-04-27T15:02:00.004+08:00

Sometimes a song says a thousand words. It can also describes a particular moment in our life pefectly. Here's one.

"Someone Like You"
- Adele -

I heard
That you're settled down
That you
Found a girl
And you're
Married now

I heard
That your dreams came true.
Guess she gave you things
I didn't give to you

Old friend
Why are you so shy?
Ain't like you to hold back
Or hide from the light

I hate to turn up out of the blue uninvited
But I couldn't stay away, I couldn't fight it.
I had hoped you'd see my face and that you'd be reminded
That for me it isn't over

Never mind
I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
"Don't forget me," I begged
"I'll remember," you said
"Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead."
Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead,
Yeah.

You know how the time flies
Only yesterday
It was the time of our lives
We were born and raised
In a summer haze
Bound by the surprise
Of our glory days

I hate to turn up out of the blue uninvited
But I couldn't stay away, I couldn't fight it.
I had hoped you'd see my face and that you'd be reminded
That for me it isn't over.

Never mind
I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
"Don't forget me," I begged
"I'll remember," you said
"Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead."

Nothing compares
No worries or cares
Regrets and mistakes
They are memories made.
Who would have known
How bittersweet this would taste?

Never mind
I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
"Don't forget me," I begged
"I'll remember," you said
"Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead"

Never mind
I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
"Don't forget me," I begged
"I'll remember," you said
"Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead"

Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead

Doing The Right Thing

2011-04-23T08:16:00.010+08:00

We have been drilled since young to do the right thing. Doing the right thing can either be easy or hard, depending on the situation. Sometimes, NOT doing the right thing is easy that people do not bother at all and just leave it at that, hoping that everything will work out fine in the end. In other words, doing the right thing is the hardest thing a person can ever do! It takes courage and conviction to do the right thing.

Sometimes I do wonder, what does it mean by 'doing the right thing?'. Do we do it simply because its expected of us, or just because its our duty or its the done thing or simply because you have to conform to society's rule?? However, it has to be said, that by doing the right thing, you do feel great and think that you have done something worthy or even noble. Most importantly, you can sleep at night, conscience clear of any blame or guilt.

Doing the right thing depends on our perspectives and values at the end of the day. If you do the right thing because it feels right and you do it without any pressure or coercion, then you should feel extremely proud. However, doing the right thing is not so straight forward as it seems especially if there are other factors involved. You have to weigh all the variables and come up with an answer that you are happy with. At times, you may not be entirely happy with the decision you make but had to, simply because its the right thing to do! Have you ever done something which was the right decision at that time and now regretted since??

At the end of the day, you have to do what is right for you. Life is short - live your best life!

XX

A Touch Of Kindness

2011-04-22T22:42:00.003+08:00

It has been an interesting few months for me. I have encountered situations which made me realized that the life lessons are there to teach us something about our selves and the people around us.

I have been thinking a lot these past few months over some stuff. Have I become very impatient with people? Have I lost the belief that people can do good and great things? Do I expect too much from people that when my expectations were not met, I tend to be very judgmental?? Have I lost my mojo? Have I become less kinder to self and to other people?

I have come to the realization that kindness is not a special treatment. Kindness is something that we show in our treatment to others and most importantly, I need to be kinder to myself - I am my worst critic and that sometimes hinders me from doing something - its like self-sabotage! Enough already!! I totally deserve kindness from self.

A touch of kindness is a great thing. Be kind in your dealing with self and others. XX

Saturday Blue

2010-10-02T21:16:00.004+08:00

I have been surfing the TV channels for something to watch - but- alas, there's nothing exciting on the box tonight. I am bored, really bored. I have things to do but I can't just sum up the energy to do my chores - don't want to think about work as it just make me sick to the stomach!!

For the past few days, I have been feeling really morose and depressed. I can't seem to shake the darkness. Believe me I tried! However, the feeling of helplessness was really strong. I was simply not in a good place and I really needed an outlet to let it all out!! I don't know why I am feeling like this -- i mean i have a good life and i have nothing to complain and yet why did I feel so down in the dumps?!!!

I suppose everyone goes through a rough patch in their lives, or the time of the month is fast approaching which may explain this moodiness... Whatever it is, I want this heavy feeling to just go away....

It wasn't until this afternoon when the darkness slowly dissipate. I had an A-ha moment when a good friend of mine said in a conversation that 'laughter is the best medicine'. I think she is right, humour and laughter will uplift the soul. I had a hearty belly laugh and it felt damn good.

Call it serendipity, a chance comment by my good friend and a song heard on the radio called 'open your eyes' by Maher Zain that made me pulled myself out of the blues. When you feel so down, look no further, pray to God. God loves us.

The moral of the story is - God is everywhere and will always be by your side.

Furry friends

2010-09-28T11:34:00.003+08:00

For the past few days, I have been bombarded with pictures of cats, tales about cats and offer of a kitten to call my own. My love of felines is well-known amongst those who know me. I have had cats as my loyal companions and they were with me for many, many years. I loved my cats and they loved me unconditionally. I loved it when i called my furry friends by names and they came running to me. I loved petting them. I loved sleeping with my cats. What's not to love - cats are soft, adorable and they purr....

When my cats died, it just broke my heart. I am not saying that I won't ever have a cat to call my own. It's just that I am not ready yet.

I love cats and that's a fact.

I am still here

2010-09-28T11:24:00.003+08:00

Just wanna say I am still here and I will see you soon.

Cheers!

Favourite Poem

2010-06-07T08:51:00.004+08:00

A friend and I recently discussed about our favourite poems. I have several that i really love - some are inspirational, some are sweet, some are sad and some are really dark. I used to write poems when i was younger. I still kept some poems penned from my youth where they will remain hidden until I am ready to show them off to the world. The poems that i wrote are totally deeply personal, dark and painful because they were written when I was feeling down. I don't know why I have the inspiration to pen one when I am at my lowest ebb!!

I am going to share one of my favourites. I read this poem when I was fifteen. I came across it by accident in the library when I was looking for a book to take out. I was intrigued, i peeked inside, read a few lines and was hooked instantly. I must admit that at that age, I did not really fully understood the depth of this poem. However, I always remembered it because I thought it was beautiful. Recently, the title of this poem was made into a movie. Enjoy the poem below. Have a nice day.

Invictus

By

William Ernest Henley

Out of the night that covers me
black as the pif from pole to pole
i thank whatever gods maybe
For my unconquered soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
Nor cried aloud
Under the bludgeoning of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the horror of the shade
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate
How charged with punishments the scroll.

I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

Bad Hair Day

2010-01-26T20:37:00.003+08:00

A bad hair day can actually spoil your day!! I jest not! There are some people who walk around with severely very bad hair -- 2 celebrities come into mind...Tim Burton (Hollywood Film Director) and Mickey Rourke (Hollywood Actor), yes they are men, famous and rich....but no matter how permanently ugly their hair are - they are still seen as desirable objects by some women!! Obviously these women are desperate and need to be in the limelight!!

I digress! Anyway...i have a really bad hair day today. Saw a friend today who thought i looked very sickly!!! urrrgghhhhh!!! I went shopping later in the day and this stranger gave me this weird look and to add insult to injury...a wide berth!! I must really look like a fright! Mrs Frankenstein I was not!! I was just having a very bad hair day!!

I think negativity is bad karma. When you feel negative, you don't feel good and it really shows on the outside and hence...very bad hair day!! I know beauty is skin deep and its on the inside that matters...but positivity makes you feel good and as such everything around you is beautiful. Well, that's my theory and I am sticking by it!

I am going to have a fantastic week. And I know that I will have great hair days too. Be positive people. Be Happy!

Seriously January

2010-01-15T12:40:00.004+08:00

It has been raining for the past few days on and off. I love the rain especially when I am in bed under the cover with a good book. Anyway, rain can make you feel nostalgic and piquant too.

I have been thinking about some stuff recently on and off. Frankly speaking, this matter bothers me and it pains me just by thinking about it. On occasion, i went alternatively sad, then depressed, then angry, then numb and finally sod it off!!!

The thing is, despite the diverse emotions: pain, sadness, anger, hurt pride, sense of injustice and being judged harshy, I understood and accepted it all. I am looking at the bigger picture and as such I am able to accept and be truthful to self. Everyone involved had good intentions. Unfortunately along the way some stuffs were misconstrued and lost in translation.

I think it is empowering, if only we care to look at the bigger picture. This is not a matter of personal vindication or justification. It's simple. I understood! I empathized! Through out it all, I evolved.

I think its important for me to deal with this matter. I think I have found a path to deal with it. It has been said that wherever there's a great dilemma exists is where the greath growth is, too. I can choose to take the high road or the low road. Negativity will bring me nowhere.

It is true that other people and their opinions hold no power in defining our destiny. I am not defined by this situation. I choose the high road. I choose to be happy. I choose not to play victim. I choose to move on! Enough said.

Hello 2010

2010-01-14T11:06:00.005+08:00

It has been 2 weeks since we lived in 2010. I remember the coming of the new year vividly.........I was actually outside the house at midnight to watch the fireworks to mark the coming of 2010. It was a beautiful sight. The sky was lighted with gorgeous display of fireworks.

As I was watching the night sky, I saw a big new moon. It made me smile as it reminded me of the movie 'new moon' which caused a frenzy amongst teens all over the world.

In some cultures, new moon means a new life or beginning. Isn't that interesting? Normally, people make new resolutions to mark the beginning of a new year. To be honest, I haven't made any for many, many years. However, what I do know for sure are the following:

1. Be yourself and remain authentic
2. Live, laugh and relax
3. Don't sweat over small stuff
4. Live graciously and in gratitude
5. Don't take your family and friends for granted
6. It's just a moment and its not for the rest of your life is my favourite mantra
7. Always consider the bigger picture
8. Take charge of your life. You are in the driving seat
9. It's NOT always about YOU. Don't play a victim. It's pathetic!
10. All actions have consequences. You have to learn to submit, accept and take responsibility.

Have a happy 2010 everyone and stay positive! :)

Live, Laugh and Relax

2009-12-31T16:09:00.007+08:00

There are some good and sad moments in 2009. I am not going to rehash all the details here..... Suffice to tell, I thought I knew it all about life and self. Obviously, my life journey is still an ongoing process. This humbles me and it makes me appreciate all the life lessons i have learnt so far.

I became myself through a lot of processes: setbacks, heartbreaks, intense sadness, bitter mistakes, disappointments, failures, limbos, wild, angry, prayers, patience, peace, support, extensive readings, loss of people I cannot live without, loss of my pets that left me reeling, endless conversations with family and friends about life, friendship and relationship, loyalty, understanding and acceptance. I understand that you have to make mistakes to find out who you aren't. I think, its true that we always tend to think that we are right in all matters however it is important to understand the bigger picture. By being holistic, i have come out to the other side, more evolved and more compassionate. In a sense its very empowering. I accepted it all in my strides...faults, foibles, mistakes, truth, consequences, accountability and responsibility.

We will be leaving 2009 soon. May 2010 be more peaceful and joyful to all. As Oprah famously said " Live your best life" and why sweat over the small stuff....Live, Laugh and Relax.

Sayonara 2009 and Selamat Datang 2010. May this year brings us good things in life.

Just Because

2009-12-27T16:28:00.002+08:00

These are some of my favourite pictures. Just because its the end of 2009, i am sharing them with you. Nature is eternally beautiful, however it has many faces -- beauty, serenity, life force, survival, savage, raging tempest, angry earth, inferno fire and water disaster. When nature is in one of its moods -- one one can stop it!!! Nature is our greatest gift -- enjoy and appreciate it.

A day at the Beach

2009-12-17T09:32:00.003+08:00

It has been ages since I went to the beach. Our beaches are beautiful. Adopt a beach in Brunei and make sure it stays clean and beautiful. Our beaches are the best gifts we can give to selves and future generations. Enjoy the pictures below.

Bali-O-Bali (Part 2)

2009-11-20T21:25:00.005+08:00

I love Bali and I think I will be back! Enjoy the pictures folks :-)

Frangipani -- favourite flora amongst locals

Beautiful Balinese carving

Trying to entice visitors to buy souvenirs

Majestic Mount Batur

Traditional village Panglipura

Beautiful Beach

Soaking my feet

That says it all

Bali-O-Bali (Part 1)

2009-11-20T19:27:00.011+08:00

I went to Bali recently with one of my closest friends. We had a blast. Bali is an enchanting island and visitors are spoiled with beautiful landscapes, cultural products and friendly locals. These are some of my favourite snapshots of Bali -- enjoy folks.

My hotel room

A Balinese lady making a basket

The finished products

Traditional Balinese village

Balinese idol

Kopi Luwak for coffee connoisseur

The lighter side of Bali

Reflection

2009-11-03T22:17:00.014+08:00

For the past two days, I followed Oprah's interview with Whitney Houston on the Hallmark channel. I thought Whitney Houston was very patient to stay in a bad, bad marriage for such a long, long, time simply because she took her marriage vows seriously. The holy matrimony should be taken seriously however the two people in it must take each other with love and respect. In the end, after so many emotional hard knocks, she took the plunge and got herself out of a very toxic relationship. It was a beautiful day when Whitney Houston finally found her real authentic self. She realises that respect is crucial in a relationship and she deserves someone who respects her. Whitney Houston has found her groove back - yeah!!

Wow!!! I had that light bulb moment after watching that interview. We have the potential to survive hard knocks in our lives if we have the faith in God and selves. I thought Whitney Houston is one amazing woman. She has come a long way and has come out of the tunnel stronger and wiser. However, upon reflection, I don't have to look very far for such a woman. I can name a few good women in my life whom I think are truly amazing.

B.B.F is such a woman. I am always amazed by her largesse. She is truly authentic and one beautiful spirit. Thank you B.B.F for being real and for sharing your wisdom with me. I will write about other amazing females in my future blog. So, watch this space.

Stay Tuned

I Am Here

2009-11-02T13:50:00.007+08:00

In case you are wondering, yes...I am still standing. I know that it has been a long hiatus since I last put words onto print. I have been busy with work and other stuff. I shall try to write more regularly, after all when I decided to blog, my intentions were to write on the good, the bad and the ugly stuffs that affect me personally.

I was talking to Rx earlier about the possibility of a 'collaboration with a past' but upon reflection, i think she is right. To stir up a hornets' nest is not recommended. I shall bow to her wisdom, after all, she has my best interest at heart. 'The wise will always stay the course' is a good adage for this particular situation. Thanks Rx for your honesty.

There are many interesting moments that I want to share with you dear readers, but they can wait. I am Here, enough said.

Watch this space

Bangkok, Thailand

2009-07-06T12:55:00.006+08:00

I went to Bangkok, Thailand with Best, Best Friend after a wonderful trip to Vietnam. We were well-equipped (face masks, different arrays of vitamins) in the face of the spread of H1N1 pandemic. Despite the H1N1 hoopla, we had a wonderful time there. We stayed at Baiyoke Sky which is the tallest building in Thailand. These are some of my favourite pictures from Thailand.

Our favourite - tea with milk

Bird's eye view of Bangkok

Thailand galore

The hustle bustle of Bangkok

That says it all!

Ho Chi Minh: Part 3

2009-06-29T17:23:00.006+08:00

The lighter sides of Ho Chi Minh can be seen in the following snapshots. Enjoy! :)

Motor cycles are the usual mode of transportation in Ho Chi Minh

Beautiful handicrafts

Shopping at Ben Thanh market

Variety of grains sold at the market

Something to make you smile

Ho Chi Minh: Part 2

2009-06-29T17:14:00.006+08:00

Ho Chi Minh City formerly known as Saigon has a very colourful past. The Chinese, the French and the American played various roles in shaping its history. We have heard about the 1,000 year of the Chinese domination, the French colonialism and the American and Vietnam war.
We all knew how the war ended!! The Vietnamese won the war. We went to Cu Chi tunnel which was one of the most complicated and sophisticated underground tunnels for the Viet Cong Red Armies and one of the fiercest battlegrounds during the war.

We went to the Reunification palace - beautiful architecture. We also visited the post office which is also one of the most majestic buildings in Vietnam. A snapshot of Mr. Ho Chi Minh's statue located in Saigon square completes my collection of photos.

Cu Chi Tunnel

The Post Office

Reunification Palace

Government Building

The statue of the man himself-Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City: Part 1

2009-06-28T19:50:00.010+08:00

I went to Ho Chi Minh City recently with my best,best friend. I visited the city in the late 1990s. When I was last there, almost every women on the street were wearing the traditional "ao dais" and conical hats, even when riding their motor-bikes. I found the sight very charming. In 2009, the traditional clothes are replaced by western clothes....I can count a number of women in their beautiful traditional costumes. I am really amazed by Vietnam's rapid development and the impact of globalisation!!!

Despite the impact of development, I find Ho Chi Minh still charming. It was lovely to soak the beautiful Vietnamese's cultures, colours and sights. The people are very friendly. I think i will come back and visit Ho Chi Minh City again, definitely.

A woman in her conical hat

The water puppet show - not to be missed

The famous Vietnamese Pho noodle soup

Dragon fruit

Art is the pulse of the Vietnamese culture

Simple Things In Life

2009-06-12T21:45:00.004+08:00

I have been enjoying my break away from work, work, work. I am so stress freeeeeeeeee. It's nice to feel at peace, have the time and space to just chill. The simple things in life are these - a nice hot cup of teh tarik, the time to enjoy my reading and to smell the flowers. Bliss!!

Teh Tarik

Ultimate indulgence - reading

Beautiful flora

A New Beginning

2009-05-21T07:05:00.006+08:00

Unbeknown to anyone, I have been feeling all sorts for the past week or so. I have indulged and have been enjoying my disenchantment all by myself....is it so worth it???

Well, it was 'fun' for a while but i am so not into self-knocking myself. There are other important things that could occupy my thoughts, positive things that can make me happy. I have always teased a good friend of mine, Rx whenever she is talking about depressing stuff to stop it and instead of dwelling on it to just wonder why a particular stand of tree by the roadside is dropping its leaves...it always made her laugh...bless her!!

I have learned a valuable lesson this week. It's so lonely feeling depressed. Its not a good feeling especially if you kept it to yourself...i think it can be dangerous and it can bring self-harm in the long run if it's not brought out into the open. The worst thing about it is no-one knew how you are feeling inside!!! I realise that talking to someone helps. You have to deal with your anger or depression in a positive way. I did....i spoke to my cat about it!!!! I think, the cat understood and it was extra loving to me. Ohhh, the love of this gentle creature is so unconditional...i am so honoured and humbled by it.

Anyway, it is a beautiful day....the sun is bright and the sky is blue. I am healthy and i have the means to indulge my guilty pleasures (see my entry-Oct 2007). I am grateful for the blessings i have in my life. I am here. I am blessed.

Random

2009-05-19T20:34:00.007+08:00

Have you ever feel a sense of disaffection?. And yet you can't talk to anyone about it?!!! There are definitely some issues that disturb me, maybe its my fault and for what it's worth, I am sorry. Anyway, let me deal with this 'thing' in my own time, it will pass and i will move on. I have been telling those nearest and dearest to me that, anything that make you feel good is always going to be drawing in more. However, i can't seem to shake these feelings of inertia, alienation and dare i say it depression!! I seem to be ok on the outside, but on the inside..its such a mess!!!

Anyway, I have the right to feel disenchanted and angry if I want to! It's not a crime and I am not affecting those i love with my foul mood. I must say that i have been very controlled. I should pat myself on the shoulders for hiding this thing well from others.

Don't worry people...I shall be ok. This feeling will soon pass.

My List

2009-04-13T23:21:00.007+08:00

One true fact about me is that i love to make a list. It belies of an organised planner but in reality however, I make the lists but rarely complete them. However, I must say that there's nothing satisfying as finishing something when I'm done. Just check the item and the 'to do' is crossed off. Now, my best, best friend (BBF) is one of those people who writes her lists and she can actually complete her lists - yes, she is super, duper efficient but I am prettier!! :-p har!har!har!!!

Why do i keep making a list? well, lists are necessary for the times my memory decides to take the day off. BBF, Ns and Rx will smile when they read that particular sentence...hey gals, its not an admission to aging ok!!!

I make many lists. I will share some of them.

Countries I want to visit
Things to pack for a trip
Hair products to check out
Recipients of my home-baked scones
Possible nicknames (BBF, Ns & Rx know of this!!)
Collection of books
Things to buy when i am mrs. multi-billionaire

I write my lists everywhere: in the car, in the bathroom, even whilst shopping and once at the vet while the cat was being vaccinated! Each month, i make a life-lesson list and i will highlight the best life-lesson for that month. Recently, i have a light bulb moment, i decided to do something that i have listed as to-do for years. I wrote, I finished and I conquered. Will write about that one of these days.

Watch this space.

Au revoir my love

2009-02-26T14:14:00.003+08:00

My baby Cha Cha passed on 16 February. Her death was totally unexpected. I was absolutely in shock -- it didn't register that she died until two days later. Huge, fat tears rolled down my cheeks and it didn't stop for ages....

Cha Cha was 8 years old when she died. She brought a lot of love and joy to me. She was independent, strong, fearless and the so-called 'terror of the neighbourhood'!! Cha Cha - you will always be remembered. I loved you baby and I missed you always. Au revoir sweetheart.

Hello 2009, Goodbye 2008

2009-01-04T10:36:00.002+08:00

The following ten items are my most memorable & unforgettable for 2008...

1. My trip to Singapore with H & A at the beginning of january 2008;

2. Closure - a blast from the past;

3. Maldives -- a beautiful country;

4. My holidays with Best,Best Friend in Dubai and Singapore;

5. Adam and Aidan made their debut;

6. My saddest day - my baby Carrot the cat died;

7. Moments and good conversations with my close friends;

8. Bonding session with the family;

9. R & L flew on a plane for the very first time. It was wonderful to see them so excited;

10. A trip to KL with the family & kids - fun, exhausting and yet memorable

A Tribute to my baby

2008-12-24T16:36:00.005+08:00

Carrot the cat died yesterday, 23 December 2008. He was 17 years old. Carrot was born in Yorkshire, England. He came to live with me when he was just a month old. He was this tiny, playful, orange furry kitty. He was absolutely adorable. He got me at first sight.

He had an interesting personality and attitude. He got spunk. He was a top cat. He adored me to bits and he never bit nor scratched me even when i teased him. Others were afraid of his mighty claws. He was a tough warrior. He was a law unto himself. Carrot did not take teasing very lightly from others. He would find ways to get even. He would put his sick in his enemies' shoes, scratched their precious possessions to bits or the tormentors would find their properties in his litter box. Towards the end, he mellowed a bit and sleeping was his favourite past time. However, he would show his teeth from time to time. Ask the vet, he had scars to prove it. hehehe

Carrot was with me through the good, the bad and the ugly. He taught me about friendship, companionship, unwavering loyalty and unconditional love. There will always be one Carrot the cat. He will be sadly missed. Good bye my darling baby. You were a great cat. I loved you Carrot and I always will.

Carrot - my baby

Are you Ready?

2008-11-26T10:52:00.003+08:00

This post is a continuation of my last entry. I have been thinking a lot about this one particular word. What does it mean to me personally??? This word has been used and abused in different context, depending on whatever way you look at it.

C.H.A.N.G.E.

In my opinion each letter of the word represent something. Note: This is just a personal reflection.

C = Communicate; Community; Clarity; Collaborate; Cooperative; Connection; Choice

The above denote positive things. When a change is created, there has to be chord among all. It has to be in concert. There should not be any conflict, confusion or chaos. Most importantly, it should not create chasm in any form or another. Change must be a celebration!!

H = Hope; Holistic; Heard; Honour; Honest; Harmonious

Change will happen whether you like or not!!! We are not living in a bubble. Change is all about hope. It must be heartfelt and as such opinions of everyone must be heard. When this is achieved then there is harmony.

A = Adaptable; Alignment; Acceptable

To create positive change, it must be acceptable. It has to be aligned with the common good.

N = Need; Negotiate; Network

There must be a need for change. We can not live be in a rut!! However, to create a positive new reality, it has to be nice. Negotiation and networking are key ingredients

G = good; governance; grow; goal; guidance

Solid groundwork is essential for change. There has to be a goal that is good for everyone. Change that give room for growth. Change should not be just glossies!

E = Empowerment; Ensure; Enable; Engage

To ensure effective change, we must empower through enabling environment. Rule of engagement is part and parcel of effective change. If done correctly, change can bring enlightenment.

Change

2008-11-25T15:50:00.004+08:00

Change! We have been bombarded with this particular word for the past few months. Change seems to be the new mantra. Frankly speaking, i am getting sick of hearing that word. What the **** does it mean?

Change means different things to different people. It can have positive and negative impact. We all know that. Getting out of the box is good if it bring us out of the rut or limbo. Change also means new things, excitement, for the better and all that jazz. I mean if you, yourself personally take charge of any change in your life, that's your prerogative. Good for you and it's a personal choice! You are in the driving seat.

However, it's a different ball when change is forced down your throat. In a situation when change is initiated by a group of people for a good of a critical mass -- then change is one very over-use word!! Change will be accepted and embraced fully when it follow a certain formula. To institute change, it must come with communication; facilitation; education and participation.

Someone said to create change, you have to be brutal. Is that so? Is that necessary? Will this kind of change not create resentment, resistance and apathy?

What do you think???? Stay tuned.

Scent of a Cat

2008-11-14T18:33:00.010+08:00

I really like blogging. I think i have a talent for it. Today i want to blog about smell. As a member of the animal kingdom, i am very proud to say that we all produce pheromones that sort of influence our behaviours. This is very cool indeed...oh...la..la...

I must say that I have a strong sense of smell. I can identify a baddie by my superior sense of smell. I can detect mutts by their bad odour!! Note to dog owners, dogs smell!!! I also use my keen smell to mark my territories. The best thing about it, i get pleasure out of rubbing my face against something -- may it be the furniture or the doorway...hehehehe. When i rub myself against my mummy, i am rubbing off some of my scent to her and to say she's mine-o-mine and only other cats can smell this scent!!! How cool is that! Also, to mark her as my property, i like to sit on her lap, enjoying the cuddles and the warmth. purr...purrr Other pretenders, beware - i protect my property!!! hisssss

Sometimes, i like to scratch a baddie's leather handbag and i am never caught...ever!! hehhehehe.....the trick is, leave the scene of the crime and play cute.,... purr...purr.....no one will pin the deed to you....hyuk!hyuk! meow...

I notice that humans can be very unreasonable about their furniture!! There are times when i use my claws to scratch a furniture and they scream at me or throw a hissy tantrum!!! The cheek of it!!! Don't they know that its a way for us cats to exercise our paws and claws and for scent marking???? Scratching relaxes me and I am simply showing the humans that i am comfortable with my surrounding! It's nothing to do with destructive behaviour!!! I scratched that young vet for saying that...snicker...snicker.... i read somewhere that a person who mistreat a cat will die in a storm. Note to humans -- Be kind to us felines.

I can smell fresh biscuits -- time for dinner!!!

You want a cuddle? Take a page out of this handsome cat -- greet your human by rolling on your back, stretch your legs as far as possible, yawn and exercise your claws. Humans think its cute!!

All About Me

2008-11-13T14:36:00.004+08:00

These are the 10 things you should know about me....

This is Mr.C

1. I have a big purrsonality

2. My claws are weapons of mass destruction (WMD)

3. I can't get a tan - what do you expect, I am a ginger cat!!!

4. I love chocolate

5. My vet was a small time TV purrsonality back in Yorkshire

6. I exact revenge very well - I get sick in my enemy's shoes, scratch or bite them or hide their stuff in my litter box -- hehehehe

7. I do cat-yoga in my spare time

8. I love Oprah Winfrey, despite her being a dog person...

9. I am lovable and cuddly. I am a purr machine. No one can resist me

10. I am opinionated and I show you my claws if i'm not happy....

A Day in the life of Mr. C

2008-11-13T11:14:00.005+08:00

hELlooo meowkins.....the ginger, beautiful, handsome cat you are seeing is moi! Purr..purr...I think its about time i share my life with my adoring public. :-y I digress...I have seen a lot of exciting things in my life -- some will make your whiskers curl. There was a time when I chased this ugly mutt out of my territory...yup, blood was definitely shed (the mutt) and few pots of plants were broken....(mummy was p****d off but she was glad that i won the skirmish.!! What are a few broken pots when moi emerged the victor. ;-) har..har...har...I quite like the sound of that.

I was born in Yorkshire, England in 1994. That makes me 14 years old and 72 human years. I have the best of both worlds -- I am a teenager in feline world and a wise senior citizen in human's world. The best thing is I can act any age i want and nobody can do anything about it....hehehehehe... This is just the beginning....watch this space

Picture 1. Reminiscing

Picture 2. Writing my blog

Picture 3. Me and my buddy

Picture 4. A good book - a ticket to cat-nap (pun intended)

Life lesson from a book

2008-11-10T10:48:00.003+08:00

Now, who haven't heard of this book by Mitch Albom - Five People You Meet in Heaven? I bought a copy when it first came out, but I only read it recently. I was totally hooked. I devoured the book in just two hours. This book recounts the life and death of an old man, Eddie who maintains the rides at Ruby Pier. After dying in a freak accident, Eddie finds himself in heaven where he encounters five people who have significantly affected his life, whether he realized it at the time or not. Each imparts a piece of wisdom unto him, instilling a deeper comprehension regarding the most intimate facets of life.

1. True love is never lost with death, but instead it simply takes a new form – memory – which lives eternally;

2. We should not view ourselves as individuals, but as part of the whole;

3. For every beginning there is an end, and for every end there is a beginning;

4. Life and death are intertwined, and to understand either we must understand both; and

5. Regret, anger and apathy are not acceptable. When we love, we show, we tell and we appreciate. Life is short -- be positive, be happy and be kind to self and others.

A day at the beach

2008-09-11T08:16:00.005+08:00

Location: Meragang Beach, Brunei Darussalam

Enjoy the pictures folks.

B.e.t.r.a.y.a.l.

2008-09-10T16:17:00.008+08:00

Someone recently asks me to write a topic on betrayal. An act of betrayal is the most vilest and bitchiest thing a person can do to another person. I am sure that we all have been betrayed in some form or another, at some point in our lives. I have been betrayed by deceitful and disloyal co-workers and bosses, my so-called friends and old flames. Their betrayals come in different forms. Shattered, hurt, angry, numb and heartbroken are some of the emotions that we all experience when we have been betrayed so cruelly and in our hearts we cried for justice and revenge. Read on!!

On the other side of the coin, an act of betrayal on us can make us stronger and wiser. In others, it makes them more cynical about people and the issue of trust. I was betrayed by my so-called friends a long time ago. Since that time, I have been very careful about whom I befriended. I have very close friends who are loyal to a fault and will never ever betray me. They love me to bits!

However, despite our caution against 'traitors', betrayal is everywhere. I mean, it helps to know that we are not alone when it comes to betrayal. Broken trust is a universal experience. Generally speaking, the more we trust a person, the greater the impact their betrayal has on you, then the greater the distress you will feel. Obviously, the most immediate effect of the betrayal of trust is in the emotional impact on the person betrayed. We are all vulnerable to these painful emotions.

The aftermath of misplaced loyalties - disbelief, hurt, rage and perhaps revenge. When a person feels that s/he has been betrayed, s/he may seek some form of justice, putting right into what s/he feels has been wronged, including her/his sensibilities. Confession time -- I once helped a friend dished revenge on her cheating boyfriend. Details must be brief to protect the innocent and the not-so-innocent. hehehehe. Lets just say that, when my friend's cheating, loser of a boyfriend came home from his jaunt overseas, he discovered plants growing all over his carpet. hehehehe. The how and the when will remain strictly confidential. Well, to my friend, revenge is a dish best served cold and justice had prevailed especially when her former boyfriend is extremely house proud. For more stories on revenge, Padian is the best source. For the most part, I have been really, really good. Revenge is a dish best not served. Anger is not a good companion and it will always cloud our judgment. How do I deal with traitors? Well, I just kill the disloyal and toxic rodents in my head. I give them names to suit their deceitful personalities and to amuse me. hehehehe. Anyway, God is fair. What goes around comes around. Selamat Berpuasa everyone. Be good. See no evil, hear no evil and speak no evil.

BigGirl -- this entry is especially for you.

More Felines

2008-09-09T09:07:00.005+08:00

These are some of my favourite pictures of the cats. They are so cute!!

This is Cha Cha - the undisputed Empress of the cats

This is Carrot the cat - my big baby

Kebab - the mischievous

Introducing Blackberry - the baby of the lot

September Babies

2008-09-01T11:26:00.004+08:00

Hello! It's that time of the month again. Birthdays!!! I love birthdays especially other people's. So, to family members and friends, happy, happy birthday. As this is a special month for muslims, lets hope that this month will be filled with peace, love and lots of blessings.

4 Sept
L--u Tu--n

Famous People
Beyonce Knowles
Damon Wayans

5 Sept
R-i-a-a

Famous People
Freddie Mercury
Jesse James

13 Sept
M---s

Famous People
Ben Savage
Roald Dahl

16 Sept
A--s

Famous People
Marc Anthony
Lauren Bacall

17 Sept
J-c--i

Famous People
John Ritter
Roddy McDowall

18 Sept
R--n-h

Famous People
Lance Armstrong
Jada Pinkett Smith

21 Sept
N-z--n

Famous People
Nicole Richie
H.G.Wells

Happy Birthday September babies. HugsXXX

August Babies

2008-08-04T23:50:00.005+08:00

It's time for birthday cakes and celebrations once again. To the August babies, happy birthday...., enjoy and enjoy. Hugs and mwah!!

5 August
JP who hails from Leeds and Birmingham

Famous People
Neil Armstrong - astronaut
John Huston - actor

11 August
F--z--

Famous People
Hulk Hogan - who doesn't know him???
Alex Haley - author

12 August
M--g-M--g

Famous People
Mark Knopfler - musical artist
Pete Sampras - athlete

14 August
W-n--e

Famous People
Julia Child - chef
Halle Berry - actor

16 August
N-t-

Famous People
James Cameron -film director
Madonna - singer/actor

22 August
N-d-y-h

Famous People
Macaulay Caulkin - actor
James Franck - physicist

August Birth stones

Modern Birthstone: Peridot

Ancient Roman Birthstone: Carnelian

Ancient Arabic Birthstone: Sardonyx

Ancient Hindu Birthstone: Ruby

August Flower
Gladiolis

August herb
Cumin and Indian gooseberry

August fruit and vegetable
Plum and lettuce

August colour
Brown and Orange

Motivation For August
Remember, happiness doesn't depend upon who you are or what you have, it depends solely upon what you think. (Dale Carnegie)

To all the August babies - Have a really wonderful day and year. You are only this age once. Live and let live. Hugs. :)

Shadow

2008-07-31T16:03:00.006+08:00

I have always wanted to write something on shadow. At uni, I had the opportunity to write an essay on it but I decided to write on some other topic. Long story, anyway, the definition of shad·ow according to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary are:

1: partial darkness or obscurity within a part of space from which rays from a source of light are cut off by an interposed opaque body
2: a reflected image
3: shelter from danger or observation
4 a: an imperfect and faint representation b: an imitation of something : copy
5: the dark figure cast upon a surface by a body intercepting the rays from a source of light
6: phantom
7: shadows: plural - dark
8: a shaded or darker portion of a picture
9: an attenuated form or a vestigial remnant
10 a: an inseparable companion or follower b: one (as a spy or detective) that shadows
11: a small degree or portion : trace
12: a source of gloom or unhappiness
13 a: an area near an object : vicinity b: pervasive and dominant influence
14: a state of ignominy or obscurity

Pix 1. L--a & I

One of Carl Gustav Jung's (1875-1961) compelling ideas is the shadow. He considers the shadow as part of the unconscious mind consisting of repressed weaknesses, shortcomings, and instincts.

We can use the word shadow in a variety of ways (refer to the above definition). I am sure you have heard of the term shadow government. Job shadowing is a useful experience for an apprentice. What about moving shadow??...getting interesting, huh?!!. Mmmm....indisputably beyond a shadow of a doubt!!! Shadow has an eerie connotation too -- shadowy figure = evil person. In some genre, shadowy person = master/mistress of darkness. The word shadow definitely has a wide usage. Unhappiness, hostility and grief can also cast a shadow on a person or a group of people. However, shadow is not all bad press -- we can get shade from shadow....there is always a shadow of hope for all of us!! Let us all live in peace, love, purity and honour.

Ode to Best, Best Friend (BBF)

2008-07-23T10:27:00.007+08:00

It's BBF's birthday today. I have known BBF for a very long time!! I like to think that I know her very, very well indeed and vice-versa. We have gone through so much and I am very proud that we are still friends after all these years. Maybe it's me -- I am very cool, calm and collected and I put up with all her majesty's mood swings and diva demands!!! Hahahaha...just joking!!!

BBF and I have different personalities and quirks. She's generous, extrovert, fun and very people person while I am more shy and can be very anti-social. Despite the obvious differences (me= shy and BBF = loud, har har har), we click and we connect at all levels. BBF understands me and she knows when to leave me alone -- she digs my craving for time and space. When we were abroad recently, she was a real sport -- she went to book shops with me and she even tagged along to the Museum -- not her favourite place, just to make me happy. How sweet is that!!!

BBF and I share a love for tea. She makes the best teh tarik ever. It's my favourite time when we can sit together and enjoy a very, hot cuppa. I have been racking my brain on the perfect gift for my bosom buddy on her birthday -- I want it to be special and thus, this entry is an ode to my beloved BBF. I love you BBF. Happy Birthday, God bless you and family with good health, good fortune and loads of happiness. HUGS. Mwah!!

Pix 1. Introducing BBF

Happiness is........

2008-07-22T09:04:00.005+08:00

Happiness or 'being happy' is such an abstract term. What does it mean to you? Different people will have different take on what happy means to them. I have thought long and hard about things that make me happy. I will share 10 items that make me beam like a search light!!! Some on the lists are merely wishes, but they will definitely make me v.v.v. happy!!!

1. Having the time and space to myself

2. Enjoying a nice cup of tea with BBF (just the two of us!!!)

3. No worries, no responsibilities and no regrets

4. Be Spontaneous and having someone who's willing to drop anything at a drop of a hat and shares my impromptu madcap plans!! Sayang will know what i mean. Cinta!!

5. Reading all the good books (already published or just out)

6. Having long lunches and cosy conversations with my closest friends

7. Be with the kids especially when they are behaving like perfect angels!!! (impossible feat but a girl can wish!!!)

8. Be with my fun, chaotic, noisy, lovable family whom at times can be such busybodies (you know who you are... (har har har).

9. Be with my furry friends

10. Having the means to go on a long and extended exotic vacations -- all paid for!!!

This entry is dedicated to Rx. Thanks for the inspiration!!!

Kids at Jerudong Park

2008-07-21T15:22:00.005+08:00

We promised the kids "a trip to Jerudong Park (JP)". It was raining heavily on the day of the trip and when we informed the kids that we might not be going if it kept raining - the looks on their faces -- sheer frustration and disappointment (poor kids!!). They have been looking forward to the JP trip for the last two weeks!! Fortunately, the rain stopped and they got their wishes after all!! The kids were so happy and excited. As can be seen from the pictures, they have had a great time!! I chose my favourite pictures which were taken by M--g-M--g.

A day at the Beach

2008-07-15T19:58:00.004+08:00

We took the kids to the Berakas Forest Recreation Park and its beach today. As you can see from the glossies, the kids were so excited. I have seen beautiful beaches overseas and I must admit that Brunei's beach has its own charms too. Enjoy the pictures folks!!

Cloud Appreciation

2008-07-12T13:40:00.006+08:00

I think it must run in the family. Padian loves rainbow whilst moi have always been fascinated by clouds. In some culture, the term “cloudy” is a negative. We talk about a dark cloud being over our heads. Dark, rainy days are known to be depressing. As the old adage goes, “Every cloud has its silver lining.” We can find hope in knowing that the dark clouds always pass and there’s a refreshing after the rain. There is also head in the clouds to indicate dreaminess induced by inspiration or dare I say it intoxication (hehehe) or simply 'idyllic happiness'. There are some members of the family who are currently on cloud 9. You know who you are!! Cinta!! Pebbles told me a joke about cloud yesterday. "What does cloud A say to cloud B?" Answer: Hi Cloudy!!

Enjoy the pictures folks.

Magnificent Dubai

2008-07-03T10:22:00.007+08:00

Dubai is a city of fascinating contrasts. It's where East meets West. The Dubaian government has successfully transformed this once small fishing village into a modern, sprawling and bustling city. The built environment = feast to the eyes - there were so many kodak moments. The pictures shown below are some of my favourites. BBF and I had a really good time. We would like to convey our deepest thanks and appreciation to our friend, R--- & his family for hosting our stay in Dubai. Hugs.

Pix 1. Beautiful Dubai

Pix 2. Fine speciments at Jumeirah beach

Pix 3. Burj Al Arab

Pix 4. Ibn Battuta shopping mall

Pix 5. Shopping - can you find BBF?

Pix 6. Enjoying tea whilst BBF shops!!

Pix 7. Jumeirah Mosque

Sunny Dubai

2008-07-03T09:40:00.004+08:00

Best, best friend (BBF) and I recently went to Dubai for a holiday. It has been ages since we went on a holiday together. As a holiday companion, she as always is great!! I want to take her somewhere exotic and more adventurous next time!! Anyway, Dubai was great. As seen in the pictures below, we went on a desert safari. It was an awesome experience. Highly recommended people! Despite the heat, the desert is very majestic and beautiful. Enjoy the pictures folks.

Picture 1. Majestic landscape of the desert

Picture 2. Moi and BBF (in jeans)

Picture 3. Grainy and fine 'saffronny' sand

Picture 4. Sunset at the desert

Picture 5. Wish you were here

Patch - the New Yummy Mummy

2008-07-02T14:53:00.007+08:00

Our kitty - Patch became a first time yummy mummy on the 1st July 2008. She gave birth to three kittens - they are so adorable. 2 white furs and 1 black. Mummy and kittens are doing o.k. Enjoy the pictures folks.

Picture 1. Patch - the new yummy mummy

Picture 2. Patch and her kittens

Picture 3. Adorable kittens

Picture 4. Altogether now...oohhh, so cute!!!

Picture 5. Are you looking at me?

July Babies

2008-07-02T14:19:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday to all the July babies. Have a really wonderful day. Hugs XXX

2nd July

A--ie

Famous People

Lindsay Lohan
Ashley Tisdale

7th July

M-l-na
E-w-n

Famous People

Ringo Starr
Michelle Kwan

11 July

I--t
M-k-

Famous People

Giorgio Armani
Lisa Rinna

13 July

D-d-

Famous People

Harrison Ford
Patrick Stewart

14 July

M--l-

Famous People

Ingmar Bergman
William Hanna

23 July

BBF
I-z-n

Famous People

Daniel Radcliffe
Woody Harrelson

JULY Flower : DELPHINIUM

With its lush, dolphin-shaped flowers, the aptly named delphinium – or larkspur – symbolizes an open heart and ardent attachment. Also signifying a feeling of lightness and levity, the gentle hues and refreshing fragrance of this summer birth flower give it a refreshing and distinctive natural beauty.

JULY Birthstone: RUBY

The Ruby's rich colour speaks of love and passion. Rubies were thought to represent heat and power. It has been said that the Ruby's red glow comes from an internal flame that cannot be extinguished, making a gift of this stone symbolic of ever lasting love.

Maldives picture gallery

2008-06-12T09:50:00.006+08:00

A picture paints a thousand words. What else can I say. Enjoy folks!!!

Picture 1. Bandos Island

Picture 2. The chalets @ Bandos.

Picture 3. Sunrise at Bandos

Picture 4. Clear blue water -- fish glory fish!!

Picture 5. Glorious Maldives

Sun, Sea, Sand and the MALDIVES

2008-06-12T08:16:00.008+08:00

I went to the Maldives recently. Maldives is made up of 1,190 low-lying coral islands in groups of 26 naturally occurring atolls which are divided into 20 for administrative purposes. (I even met an atoll chief!!). Maldives Islands are characterized by a unique coral nature islands, lagoons and reefs and the sea is so crystal, clear, blue water. This country is absolutely gorgeous and its worth a visit!! I totally recommend it. Sun, sea, sand and fresh fish everyday = one very content visitor!!! I think i can live in this country happily!!

I stayed at Bandos Island. Its a tiny island and you can explore the whole island in half an hour. I woke up early in the morning everyday to enjoy my swim and just to see sunrise. In the evening, i went for a walk, swim and enjoy the sunset. This is what I called paradise on earth. This is definitely the place to relax and enjoy yourself!! Bliss! Enjoy the pictures folks!

Picture 1. Bandos Island.

Picture 2. Male, the capital of Maldives

Picture 3. Picturesque Maldives, Bandos Island.

Picture 4. Powdery white sand and clear blue water

Picture 5. Wish you were here

June Babies

2008-06-01T07:59:00.002+08:00

It's time to celebrate, blow the candles and sing happy hatchday to my June babies. Have a wonderful day and enjoy the day to the fullest. Yes, you will be one day older but it's ok because you are as old as you feel! hehe. Happy birthday June babies, all my love and hugs to you!

9 June

N---a

Famous People

Michael J. Fox (Actor)
Johnny Depp (Actor)

22 June

N-n-

Famous People

Meryl Streep (Actress)
Cyndi Lauper (Singer)

Quotes Just For You

"The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate." Oprah

"With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come" William Shakespeare

Birthday Flower : Rose

The rose is the June birthday flower and it is a symbol of beauty and love. The hidden message of this flower varied according to the color. Here are the messages based on the color.

The red rose signified I love you.
The white rose stood for I am worthy of you.
The orange rose stood for you are my secret love.
The yellow rose meant I am not worthy of your love.
The pink rose signified please believe me.
The white and red signified we are inseparable.

Birth Stone: Pearl. It represents purity

Happy hatch day June babies. Hugs XX

All About Me

2008-05-31T12:20:00.005+08:00

My birthday was eight days ago. Life in general is good and I feel that I have truly come into my own. Do I have everything that I have always wanted?? Do I have all the material trappings that I always dreamed of? To be honest, No. And yet when I sleep at night, I am content because in general I have been blessed with good fortune.

The greatest gift that I have ever given myself is by being me, myself and I. By accepting my foibles and imperfections and yet still be grateful. I am comfortable in my own skin. I have a lot to be thankful for - I am here - I am healthy and I am finally at peace with my self.

I might occasionally suffer from insomnia, but when I eventually drop off into exhausted sleep, I find myself smiling in the dark of my great good fortune. My BBF tells me that I am the best thing since slice bread!!! Everytime we have a conversation, she tells me how much I mean to her and we share a sisterhood that biology never granted us. My other close friends share their hearts & lives and those of their children in such a beautiful and loving way that it makes me feel that I will never be alone. My family are not perfect and yet we all make sense. Idiosyncrasies aside, we genuinely love and support each other through thick or thin.

Have you heard of the "Last Lecture" by this dying cancer patient called Randy Pausch?? Truly inspirational and highly recommended. His lecture resonate with a lot of people - including moi, but there's something about what Pausch had to say that really touched a nerve. His advice; be real;if you lead your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself; the dreams will come to you."

Live your best life people. You are in the driving seat.

1. Be positive -- good things will come to people who are positive

2. Take negativity with a pinch of salt

3. Dare to dream....I shall let myself love, hope and wish for the best.

Above all, be thankful - be genuinely, bone-deep grateful for all that we have.

Life Lessons

2008-05-28T07:52:00.003+08:00

A friend sent me this interesting email on life lessons. The insights gained from the life lessons are valuable to everyone. Do take note as there are a bunch of life lessons to be learned here.

Life lesson 1

Evaluating Relationships: Our relationship is very important and yet it’s surprising we receive so little instruction on how to evaluate, prune, and nurture them. Start by asking yourself whether each of your relationships drags you down or lifts you up. Surrounding yourself with positive relationships is half the battle.

Positive Thinking: Attitude determines altitude. If you believe you can do it, most of the time, you really can.

Personal Accountability: Most success boils down to perseverance, determination, tenacity, and other products of personal accountability.

Life lesson 2

It takes years to build up trust and only seconds to destroy it.

It's not what you have in your life, but whom you have in your life that counts.

You have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give you the right to be cruel.

Life Lesson 3

When I finished reading life lesson 3, I was laughing so hard. Jokes aside, there are things we all can learn from life lesson 3. Happy reading people.

A priest offered a lift to a Nun. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. The nun said,”Father, remember Psalm 129?” The priest removed his hand. But,changing gears, he let his hand slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, “Father, remember Psalm 129?” The priest apologized “Sorry sister but the flesh is weak.” Arriving at the convent, the nun went on her way. On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, “Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory.”

Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.

A turkey was chatting with a bull “I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree,” sighed the turkey, but I haven’t got the energy.” “Well, why don’t you nibble on my droppings?” replied the bull. “They’re packed with nutrients.” The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fourth night, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree. Soon he was spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.

Moral of the story: Bullshit might get you to the top, but it wont keep you there.

This entry is dedicated to I---- who collects life lessons anecdotes and words of wisdom. Hugs

Good Day

2008-05-23T08:37:00.004+08:00

A very good morning people. Its a beautiful and sunny day!! What more can I ask for! Woke up afreshed and in an extremely good mood. :) I have had a very good night sleep -- reading dictionary helps!!

It's my hatch day today. Yipeeee!! I am one year wiser and one year younger. Its not a cliche or false modesty people. Tee hee hee. I do look years younger than my real age. (my secret -- good gene; being positive and drink lots of liquid). Rx will know what i mean -- i drink lots of water!!! :) har!har!har! As they say, age is just a number and mine is definitely unlisted!! hehehehe. I have been receiving well-wishes from my loved ones from all over the place. It's nice to be remembered!! Thanks people for your calls, text messages and emails.

It will be a wonderful day. BBF and I will be spending the day together. Its a day of being spoilt and pampered. It's my kind of day. I so love being induldged!!! Bliss!!

Have a wonderful day to you all. Enjoy the day folks -- its a beautiful day!

Stay tuned!

Are you afraid of F.E.A.R.?

2008-05-22T19:29:00.006+08:00

Every one of us is afraid of 'something'. Fear can be described by different terms in accordance with its relative degrees. Fear comes in many shapes and forms. Fear = horror, paranoia, dread, anxiety, fright, panic and phobia. Fear is a very intense emotion. It is an extremely unpleasant feeling of perceived risk or danger, real or not. Fear can also be used and abused. Fear can motivate a person to achieve greatness. Fear can also cripple a person from doing something too. Some people enjoy fear because it gives them an adrenaline-rush. Example: I enjoy watching horror movies and riding on a roller-coaster. It's fun and such cheap thrill!!

Despite its bad press, fear plays a very important function in our life. We need fear because it can alert us and make us more cautious. We can't simply ignore fear. We have to have healthy respect for fear. Fear is a survival mechanism and this is one of our basic instincts. "The oldest and strongest emotion of mankind is fear." --- H.P. Lovecraft

The following are my list of personal fear;

Aerophobia, aviatophobia, aviophobia: Fear of flying
Astraphobia: Fear of thunder and lightning
Belonephobia: Fear of needles
Claustrophobia: Fear of confined spaces

I am not going to discuss about my fear of thunder & lightning; needles and of being claustrophobic. The stories themselves will make you roll on the floor with laughter!!! I am not going to make myself the object of ridicule!! hee hee. Rx, D and moi suffer from intense aerophobia, aviatophobia or aviophobia. It's a very horrible feeling because on certain occasion we have to travel by air for professional reasons. Well, we discussed this phobia amongst ourselves. For the three of us, air craft + flying = very sweaty palms, panic attacks and vomitting. Rx and yours truly will be flying very soon and the following mantra will be extremely useful....

Mantra-o-mantra

"I must not fear. The only thing we have to fear is fear itself"

This blog is dedicated with love to Rx and D.

Pillow Talk

2008-05-21T23:17:00.005+08:00

It is a fact universally acknowledged, that we all need 7 or 8 hours of sleep in order to keep our minds and bodies healthy. Sleeping is just a part of life that we all take for granted. It can be a real problem if we can't get a decent good night sleep. There's a word for it - insomnia. I am one of those unlucky few who find it hard to sleep or simply just can't seem to sleep very well. When I am sleep-deprived, the people around me start to notice the effects. Well-known for being sweet as pie :) when I don't have enough of shut eyes, i am one very cranky, grouchy and stroppy woman!! Hide at all costs. I can eat you on sight!! har!har!har!

Family members, BBF and friends theorize that i suffer from insomnia because I think too much!!! That I must be worried or excited about something. Duh!!! As if!!! I am not worried nor am i excited about stuff -- i just find sleep elusive!!

What do you associate with the word 'sleep'? Well, I always conjure up restful images of fluffy pillows, comfortable blankets and depending on your preference a very cuddly and warm 'companion'. I sleep with my furry friends (Mr. C, Silver Tabby and occasionally Kebab). Do I sleep better with the felines around?? Well...., I just love having them in my room and they are ever so cute.... do look at the pictures below....

Pix 1. Mr. C is in slumberland

Pix 2. Silver tabby is having a catnap

Pix 3. Sleeping beauty - K.e.b.a.b

The pictures are so adorable, aren't they? I do envy the cats simply because they can just go to snooze at any time of the day or night. For my own sanity, I have to find a cure for my insomnia before I go really mental!! Sleep deprivation is a serious problem - it can wreak havoc on your health and general well-being.

The following are some simple tips on how to sleep better.

Drink chamomile tea half an hour before shut eye
Wear your most comfortable nightie
Soak your feet in warm soapy water. Clean feet will ward off nightmares...so they say!!
Have a mini massage
Count sheep

If counting sheep doesn't work, read the same page of a book over and over again. It will put you to sleep in no time. Highly recommended, a dictionary!!!

Good Night Every one. Lights off now.

Temptations

2008-05-07T17:31:00.006+08:00

temp·ta·tion:

The act of tempting or the condition of being tempted.
Something tempting or enticing.

Temptation is something that allures, excites and seduces someone to do something in spite of her/his better judgement. This 'forbidden fruit' (whatever it is) can be thrilling or appealing to an individual for various reasons. We can all be tempted/induced to commit an act out of curiousity, desire, enjoyment or simply for the thrill of it!!!

If you ask me, what make moi succumb to temptation, do see the following lists below;

books
shoes
chocolate
cats
massage

Some temptation can not be put in the same bracket as sinful behaviours. The above listed are merely guilty pleasures. In some form or another, they can be very decadent, hedonistic or pure self-indulgence. I can definitely enjoy the enticements of guilty pleasure without any guilt or harm to self or other people ....may be some damage to my bank balance. heee heee

Temptation has negative connotations attached to it too. The following temptations are definitely total no-no and are not recommended;

Having an affair
Murdering your frenemies with your Jimmy Choo shoes!!
Backbiting
Stealing
Non ethical behaviours

When we commit the above temptation, we will feel very guilty and we will regret the very action that brought us excitement/satisfaction in the first place. By the way, I vow not to soil my precious jimmy choo shoes for the likes of insignificant rodents as frenemies!!! However, its easy to say that we will never succumb to temptation because of our strong values. We all know that the spirit may be willing but the flesh is weak and we all can succumb to devil's enticement.

Temptation is a very interesting concept. Some people think that temptation is not the same as sin. Example: having an emotional affair with other person who is not your partner. Regardless whether its sinful or not, we all agree strongly that this is not right and morally wrong. This behavior becomes a type of game - seeing how much titillation one can 'enjoy' without falling into overt sin. The word temptation is rearing its ugly head again. Can we say in all fairness that we all will never succumb to temptation? Only time or right situation/condition can tell!

Plastic Bags

2008-05-05T21:06:00.010+08:00

Plastic bags are widely used around the globe. They are cheap to produce, sturdy and easily available. They can be considered as convenient "vessels" to carry our purchases from a shop to a home. I don't know exactly how much we are using world-wide but i'm sure the number must be huge!!! We use plastic bags for a lot of things. They are so multi-purpose; for storage, to line our dustbins, carry our stuff etc. The sight of plastic bags is so common that it does raise questions about the impact they have on the environment. It has been suggested that plastic bags take hundreds of years to biodegrade. Their impacts on the environment have also inspired and sparked heated debates amongst scientists and environmentalists. Plastic bags thrown away as litter, dirty our public places and may even clog up drains. They are said to clutter landfills. They can be seen flapping from trees! They float in the breeze. It's official people,the totes are everywhere and plastic bags are here to stay!!! We can even see them drift on the high seas. Hello!!! I don't think any other product can beat the common plastic bags!!!

Plate 1. Colourful plastic bags

Plate 2. Totes-o-totes

Why the big concern??? I believe strongly that we use plastic bags in Brunei Darussalam indiscriminately and at a drop of a hat. They are everywhere and are so easily available. Their usage can be very wasteful too. There is this particular supermarket chain that will wrap your purchase in brown paper (don't let me start on paper wastage!!!) before inserting the item into a plastic bag. No matter how hard you protest over this waste -- the tellers always said its the shop's policy!!! What!!! :@ There's also this big retail company that will wrap your purchase into a small plastic bag before inserting them into another plastic bag!!! How daft is that!!! How wasteful!!!???

However, there's light at the end of the tunnel. I notice that there are now reusable bags made available for sale at some supermarket outlets. You know what would be great....aside from the sale of these biodegradable bags, retailers should train their cashiers to ask shoppers in a polite manner if they need a plastic bag for small purchases. However, at the end of the day... it comes down to us. We have the choice!! What can we do to reduce wastage on plastic bags usage??? As a start begin to limit and eventually stop consumption of plastic bags. Bring your own bag when you go shopping! Say ‘No’ to plastic bags when buying only a few small items. Do not throw away excess plastic bags as a waste item. Reuse or recycle them.

Mantra-o-mantra "Reduce, Reuse and Recycle"

SnapShots

2008-05-03T19:55:00.010+08:00

I was looking at some of the pictures that I took of the kids when I came across these glossies. They say "a picture paints a thousand words" -- these photos definitely illustrate kids, nature, enjoyment and serenity. Although, I must admit that I would never put kids and serenity in the same bracket!! har!har! :)

Plate 1. R & L at Tasek Lama.

Plate 2. L, R, A, Pkn & Pbs at Bukit Shahbandar.

Enjoyment of outdoor spaces has always been important to us. As such, Tasek Lama and Bukit Shahbandar are popular recreation parks in Brunei Darussalam. People visit the parks for various reasons -- leisure; to jog, hike, repose and so on. The relevant government agencies provide a range of activities and facilities for visitors to enjoy at the parks. However, I cannot help but notice that some of these visitors do not seem to appreciate the parks. A few minority litter, vandal and even deface the parks facilities. These are definitely appalling behaviours. This minority are a few too many!!!

That brings me back to the topic of this very post -- kids and nature. You might ask...is there a need to 'manage' people's leisure? Why the concern??? Nature provides us, in the natural environment with abundant resources for leisure and recreation. I think it is our utmost duty to protect, conserve and and manage our parks for our common future. Do join me in the following park codes in order to help protect our natural heritage;

keep our parks clean
respect nature
keep wildlife wild - do not feed or disturb animals; or remove native plants
keep to defined paths and trails
be considerate of other park users

I think these guidelines are very simple to follow. If everyone abides by this code, then our children's children will be able to enjoy our recreation parks in their splendour.

10 Things We Waste

2008-05-02T00:04:00.007+08:00

I was blog-hopping when I came across this very interesting entry -- "10 things we waste". The title definitely caught my interest. Now, the 10 items listed below may have religious connotations, however, I think we should take stock and benefit, of not only reading this but also reflect on its content.

10 Things We Waste

1. Our Knowledge

Wasted by not taking action with it.

2. Our Actions

Wasted by committing them without sincerity.

3. Our Wealth

Wasted by using on things that will not bring us ajr (reward from Allah). We waste our money, our status, our authority, on things which have no benefit in this life or in the akhirah (hereafter).

4. Our Hearts

Wasted because they are empty from the love of Allah (swt) and his Messenger (sallallahu ‘alahi wasallam), and a feeling of peace and contentment. In it’s place, our hearts are filled with something or someone else.

5. Our Bodies

Wasted because we don’t use them in ibadah (worship) and service of Allah.

6. Our Love

Our emotional love is misdirected, not towards Allah, but towards something/someone else.

7. Our Time

Wasted, not used properly, to compensate for that which has passed, by doing what is righteous to make up for past deeds.

8. Our Intellect

Wasted on things that are not beneficial, that are detrimental to society and the individual, not in contemplation or reflection.

9. Our Service

Wasted in service of someone who will not bring us closer to Allah, more on something that will benefit us in dunya.

10. Our Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)

Wasted, because it does not affect us or our hearts.

Source: Living Islam

Personally, the 10 items are relevant regardless of your religious belief or ideology (apply it to fit your particular interest) because unfortunately waste is so much part of our lives.

WATCH THIS SPACE

May Babies

2008-05-01T09:24:00.007+08:00

Here's wishing the May Babies a very, very happy birthday. It is said that this month is named for the Greek Goddess, Maia. In some culture, May is considered to be the month of regeneration and growth. It also symbolises flowers and crops -- harvest time and it's time to party!!!

2 May
S--g

Famous People
David Beckham

4 May
L---a

Famous People
Audrey Hepburn

8 May
Favourite Aunty -- BFF's mum

Famous People
Enrique Iglesias

9 May
W--a

Famous People
Billy Joel

10 May
S--r--a

Famous People
Fred Astaire

11 May
S-f-a

Famous People
Salvador Dali

16 May
Y----n

Famous People
Janet Jackson

18 May
G--r--e

Famous People
Chow Yun Fat

21 May
N--s

Famous People
Mr. T

22 May
Z--a

Famous People
Arthur Conan Doyle

23 May
Me, Myself & I

Famous People
Mitch Albom
Jewel

26 May
H---i

Famous People
John Wayne

May symbol: The hawthorn and lily of the valley are considered the flowers of May
May birthstone: Emerald
May fruit or vegetable: Rhubarb or Gooseberries
May herb: Dandelion
May colour: Green

Motivation for the Month: Humility is not thinking less of yourself, rather thinking of yourself less.

Then came fair May, the fairest maid on ground,
Deck'd all with dainties of the season's pride,
And throwing flowers out of her lap around.
~Edmund Spenser~

Happy Birthday to all the May babies. May this month brings us good things in life: good health, happiness and peace. Hugs and kisses to all of my May babies. XXXX

Perfect Mates

2008-04-30T10:56:00.004+08:00

This blog is inspired by Padian's latest entry. How to find the perfect mate, stay in love and be faithful with the same person for the rest of your life and yet be a person in your own right, with separate identity from your spouse. Wow, i feel exhausted just thinking about that!!!

We all acknowledged that mate selection is a highly complex processs and it is the most crucial decision of our lives. We spend a huge amount of time and energy trying to find that special someone. Yet we are often not satisfied. We seem as much in the dark as ever about who is a suitable match for us.

What made us fall in love with that special someone? I know of people with list of exacting attributes for that perfect someone. These are the typical items on the list;

Attractive
Stable job
Good family background
Brainy
Good body
Age between ??? to ???
Personality

Preferences for these qualities - beauty, brains and resources - are universal. If you ask me, what do i look for in a mate..., i know for sure what i do not want;

workaholic
commitment phobic
stingy git
possessive loser
feline hater
insensitive & chauvinistic lout
ultra-needy
unfaithful jerk
negative personality

There you got it!! My list of don'ts. However, at the end of the day -- always trust your instincts. My advice is : You are in the driving seat; its your life and you have to choose what is RIGHT or the BEST for you and yours.

It has been suggested that falling in love with that special someone has been attributed to ineffable chemistry. Who we fall for is determined by a mix of factors, some of which we are aware of, some of which we experience indirectly. Happenstance can play a major role too. For, what its worth, be with someone because s/he values you not because you have to have someone by your side!!!! Remember, you hoped to be with that person for the rest of your life and as such you have to be together for the right reasons in the first place.

Cats Gallery

2008-04-11T15:58:00.011+08:00

The pictures of my four legged friends are so adorable that I simply have to share them.

Plate 1. Mr. C is having a catnap

Plate 2. Silver tabby owns the bed

Plate 3. Oyster and Kebab

Plate 4. Patch and her books.

It's a battle zone every day between the felines. Kebab is a tease. His favourite past time is baiting the silver tabby. Despite losing the battle, Kebab wore his battle wounds with pride!! Oyster and Patch keep a very watchful and careful distance from the grouchy silver tabby. Mr. C has more or else accepted the "interlopers" (Kebab and Oyster) but he keeps an eye on Patch. As for the silver tabby, she loves Mr. C and she will hiss or claw whenever she sees the other cats. My take on this.....the four cats will have to learn to get along. They usually will in the end.

April Babies

2008-04-03T09:01:00.002+08:00

It's my wall of fame for April celebrants. I like to wish "april hatchers" a very, very, happy, happy birthdays. Enjoy the day people!! Mantra of the month - "age is just a number"

1 April
N--k

Famous People
Ali MacGraw (actress)
Debbie Reynolds (actress)

5 April
L--a

Famous People
Colin Powell (military leader/politician)
Arthur Hailey (author)

21 April
K-k-
J---y P--s

Famous People
Sarah Michelle Geller (actress)
Tony danza (actor)

22 April
L--g L--g
H--i A--r

Famous People
Jack Nicholson (actor)
Immanuel Kant (philosopher)

25 April
N--a
S----a R--

Famous People
Rene Zellweger (actress)
Al Pacino (actor)

29 April
F---h

Famous People
Andre Agassi (tennis player)
Uma Thurman (actress)

30 April
K-----l

Famous People
kirsten Dunst (actress)
Gary Collins (actor)

Birthday Flower
The month of April is represented by the daisy. Daisies have long been associated with innocence.

Birthstone
Diamond; Sapphire.

Happy Birthday. May all of your birthday wishes come true.

Contemplation

2008-03-26T00:07:00.007+08:00

The past two weeks have been interesting to say the least. Work-wise, it has been buzzing more than usual and on the personal front -- a blast from my past came knocking on the door - it was a total shock to the system. One thing for sure, something profoundly significant had happened to me. I have my A-Ha! moment. I learned to face my fear and to catch a tiger by its tail. I am blessed that I have people who love and support me. And for what it's worth, I am deeply grateful for that experience. A very wise man and a spiritual guru, Eckhart Tolle writes "don't dwell in past hurts. Realize deeply that the the present moment is all you ever have. Make Now the primary focus of your life." I think this is a very good advice. Positive thinking and lightness of being are prerequisites to happiness.

Eerily enough, I had this kind of conversation on "the meaning of life - relationship kind of stuff thing" with R-- some months ago. That was when she suggested me to write on first love. I did, part 1 & 2. Recently Tuuu E was telling me that "i needed to get out of the box." I responded positively by writing about stepping out of my comfort zone. Bubu and I were also talking about serendipity and how God works in a strange and mysterious ways. Anyway, you must be wondering where I am heading with this......do bear with me as it will be very clear soon.

Looking through my posts I was suddenly hit by a feeling of déjà vu!! My last entry was on closure. Before this very subject, my posts revolved on the following topics: sole connection (sole and soul sound sort of similar!!); out of the box (i literally broke out of my comfort zone, took the plunge and said farewell to my past); cats (the closure guy has a thing about cats); dial L for love (a meeting with a blast from the past) and intentions (closure). Can you see the connection here??

I think subconsciously I have been ready for this moment. To family members and other scoffers....this is the evidence you all have been waiting for. I have psychic power!!!!! I know this for sure and now you know it too. hee hee hee. On a serious note though, life is full of surprises. We have to take the good, the bad and the ugly life has to offer in equal measure and most importantly to learn from each encounter.

C.L.O.S.U.R.E.

2008-03-17T23:24:00.012+08:00

I nearly had a heart attack two days ago. An ex-boyfriend came to visit the country and expressed an interest to meet up with moi. My first reaction was OH MY GOD!!! NEVER!!! NO!!! NO WAY!! Isn't it suppose to be when it's over, it's over and we are never to look back????!!! So when he came calling in the name of 'closure', I thought to myself, "no way matey, you are so out of luck because I'm so not interested in entertaining past hurts"!!!

But I asked myself...."am I doing myself a disservice? Do i entertain his request and just meet the man"!!!! These thoughts were running through my mind....eenie meenie miny moe: "meet him" or "leave it"???? I texted my circle for opinions. All said a big resounding YES!!!!

Let me just revisit the past. According to him, I broke his heart (in my defense, he broke mine too!!). It was an on-off relationship, on again and off again for many years. It's like riding on a roller coaster!!! I didn't know whether I was coming or going!!! We definitely had issues. In fact, I ended the relationship a couple of times during our time together. He was a nice guy, witty, intelligent, not too bad in the looks department, but in the end, he simply didn't deserve me (the goddess - har!har!har!).

Anyway, enter BBF who had a thing or two to say about my closure-phobia. She insisted that I must see the guy because we (the guy & I) have "unfinished business" and we need to resolve our issues!!! According to BBF, closure is essential for growth. It is also about self discovery, inner peace, learning and development. BBF said closure will allow me to move forward into a new stage. Lack of closure can impede my growth. BBF can be such a smart aleck at times!!! To cut a long story short, I bought her logic and took the plunge.....

Meeting an ex after a long time was scary to say the least. I was fraught with nerves and anxiety.......couldn't slept the night before, had butterflies in my stomach and all that jazz. We met at long last over breakfast. To be honest, it was good to see him. We had a good time. What i know for sure is that dealing with a break up is hard but closure is definitely highly recommended....and when we (ex & I) said our final goodbye....we morhped into a new stage in our relationship -- friendship. I am done and I have moved on with my life. Yes, I will still think of him because if i am honest deep down there is still something there. According to my Guru a.k.a BFF.... it's normal and it's to be expected. I know closure is a good thing for me personally. This is the greatest gift that I have ever given me, myself and i. Closure is an invitation for growth, wisdom and regeneration. I am totally in a good place right now.

This entry is dedicated to BBF, Ns, Rx and family members near and far who gave me the courage and support to 'catch a tiger by its tail'. Thank you. I love you all.

p.s. I am asking Fate....anymore coming out of the woodwork????. bring them on baby!! I am ever so ready!! hehehe

Sole Connection

2008-03-04T08:58:00.014+08:00

I come from a family that loves shoes. I mean, all the girls in the family are very well-heeled. Dare I say that some of us in the family are TRULY shoe addicts. I CAN NAME YOU!! tee hee hee. What is it about shoes that make us weak at the knees??? Why are they so addictive?? One thing for sure is, shoes give you instant uplift. It's surgery without the knife. Heels transform the way you walk and carry yourself.

Plate 1. shoes-o-shoes

It has been said that shoes are sex in a box!!! hehehe. When I put on a beautiful and expensive pair, its so pure decadent, such wicked pleasure, its hedonistic at best!!! har!har!har! You may ask, what constitutes a true shoe habit? Let me see.....it's when you experience shortness of breath at the sight of a shoe sale and beautiful soles? I-joke-not. The shoe doesn't even have to be for moi. It can be for someone else, I get the same rush of adrenalin and excitement! It's also when I see a perfect pair and they definitely speak to me. They are like lorelei, a siren who lures sailors to their deaths. In my case, temptation; empty wallet and shoes to die for!! hehehehe. When soles beckon, my common sense just evaporated and i come up with just the perfect mantra every time, shoes are an investment!!!!

BBF doesn't understand this obsession to shoes. But she indulges me and tries to be a sport when I spend a little too long in a shoe shop. Over time, she wise up and to let me do my own shoe browsing/shopping. I think women understand each other. After all, don't we all go a little overboard with the shopping from time to time? Isn't it part of being the complicated, mysterious, moody, adorable, multitasking females that we are?

What I know for sure is my love for shoes is hereditary. Sole connection enables us to stick together as a family. We have something in common beside our name -- our passion for shoes!!. On a personal note, I love shoes. I like them a lot more than going barefoot. I rest my case!!!

March Babies

2008-03-02T12:25:00.006+08:00

This is my hall of fame for March birthday babies. To all celebrants, "happy hatch day, enjoy your birthday and mantra-o-mantra -- be like tigger (loves fun!) and celebrate the day to the fullest!!! Hugs and kisses to my March birthday babies.

March's birthstone is Aquamarine.
March's birth flower is the Daffodil.

2nd March
L-u-

Famous People
Chris Martin (Cold Play - Lead singer)
Dr. Seuss (Writer - The cat in the hat; How the Grinch stole Christmas)

8th March
N-r--i

Famous People
Lynn Redgrave (Actress)
Freddie Prinze Jr. (Actor)

11th March
P-b-l-s

Famous People
Robert Murdoch (Tycoon, Publisher)
Thora Birch (Actress)

19th March
Abg A--
K---l

Famous People
Bruce Willis (Actor)
Wyatt Earp (Iconic figure in American folk history)

22th March
D---a

Famous People
Reese Witherspoon(Actress)
Chico Marx (Actor; Comedian)

Out of the box

2008-02-29T14:30:00.009+08:00

I have always pride myself as being different from the herd. False modesty aside, I think me, myself & I = totally unique; i.e. without an equal. Tee hee hee. However, to my consternation and absolute shock plus horror --- my so called loved ones (you know who you are!) said that I have become very predictable. Moi?!!!! :@ This is surreal!!!!

I must insist that the core that is distinctively moi is still unparalleled. hehehe. I admit, perhaps, maybe, I have been predictable in the following areas;

Favourite colours -- i have been told that i only wear certain colours. Yup, this I agree...its timely to look at other hues;
Dietary requirement -- this i can't change much due to medical restrictions!! Perhaps, i can experiment in different ways of cooking my food;
Toiletries: I have been using Dove for donkey years and I love it so much!!!!....mantra-o-mantra -- chant to self:possibilities are endless!! Scream out loud: out of the box! out of the box!
Anti-social behaviour -- To loved ones: I am sleeping over this matter. ONE DAY AT A TIME. This has to be handled with extreme caution in order to avoid major meltdown!!!!!
Hair styles -- I might surprise you one of these days!!!
Favourite hang out: I am open to suggestions...

It has been said that change can be very challenging and liberating. It's definitely hard to step out of our comfort zones. However, change can be a good thing if it means, it's for the better. I don't mind getting out of the box over superficial and inconsequential stuff but i remain and will still hold dear and true of myself. What I know for sure is that no one ever made an impact on the world without standing out from the crowd -- note to self: embrace my unique qualities. Mmmm...does that include being anti-social??? har!har!har!

Personally, it is worthy of being considered in a class by itself and as such it is crucial to embrace the person that I am and to savour the people around me who do enjoy me. I can take that same premise and extend it to so many things in my life. I want to live a life that is my own, pleasing no one else but those who truly matter around me - and most of all, me, myself and I.

It's difficult enough to fit into the mould. Mantra-o-mantra: "Be you; always be true to yourself". A definite cliche but it's TRUE nonetheless. I think by being me, myself & I; its sexy because it's so real and unrehearsed. I Dare to be Different; ♥ ツ.

On a different note -- I take stock of the loved ones suggestions. It's good to break out of my comfort zone, take risks and discover new things. Life is nothing but an adventure...

This entry is dedicated to Tuuuu E, Ns & Rx.

The Silver Tabby

2008-02-26T15:49:00.006+08:00

Here are some of the recent pictures taken of my silver tabby. She is absolutely gorgeous!! She has a temper on her and yet she can be such a doll. Enjoy the pictures!!

Plate 1. This pose definitely screams 'look at me'

Plate 2. Silver tabby and her favourite book

Plate 3. Checking out the competition

Plate 4. Cat nap baby

Amusing Mr.C

2008-02-26T15:14:00.007+08:00

Mr. C loves having his pictures taken. He will be at his most sweetest whenever he sees a camera. He is definitely not shy and retiring like moi!!! He is always camera ready. Mr. C is such a poseur!!!! Look at the pictures though -- Mr. C is soooo cute!!!

Plate 1. Mr. C loves his figures

Plate 2. Mr C knows The Secret

Plate 3. Exhausted with T.M.I. (too much information!!)

Plate 4. Sleeping beauty

Introducing Mr. K-E-B-A-B

2008-02-26T14:15:00.013+08:00

We have a new kitty in the house. He was a stray that we found at our local kebab place. Hence the name Kebab. He is also known as Ivory. Kebab is a Siamese cat and he is extremely mischievous and such a darling. The other TWO felines are jealous of this new addition to the family. Mr. C has more-or-less accepted Kebab but he still gives the occasional hiss or kick whenever he feels stroppy. As for my silver tabby, she absolutely hates Kebab. Hissy tantrums and claws abound whenever kebab is near. Despite the animosity and battle wounds, Kebab adores the silver tabby much to her consternation. Kebab follows the silver tabby every where she goes despite the claws, the injuries and the hisses. Kebab is such a tease!! One of the kids, Pumpkin has a stuff toy that so resembles the Silver tabby and Kebab absolutely loves the look-alike!! Isn't he adorable? Watch this space.

Plate 1. Kebab a.k.a Ivory

Plate 2. Kebab and his "nemesis"

Plate 3. Kebab, silver tabby look-alike and Pumpkin

Plate 4. Gorgeous Kebab

Dial L for Love

2008-02-14T12:04:00.006+08:00

Love is the most well-known word in the English language. This four little word can also be used and abused. It is widely used in all kinds of situations. There are so many varieties of love and so many legitimate objects of love that it's difficult to pin the word "love" to one individual or object!!!

It has been suggested that love has a big following! It has many uses and we use it to describe how we feel towards our family, significant other, friends and furry friends. The thing about love, is that, we can express it in different ways. Some just say the word, some use action to express their love, some cook as a token of love and some write sweet/romantic notes to loved ones.

Valentine's day is celebrated every 14th February. The question is do we need a special day to tell our loved ones we love them??? Each to his/her own.

As for moi, i show my love to my loved ones everyday. I may not say the word as often as I should but I show it in different ways. To those who know me....I don't enjoy cooking and when I do, its lace with love. I can be very anti-social and when I do socialise and attend functions or "do-s" that's love. When I sewed wedding stuff for my nieces' nuptials, all those efforts have love stamped all over them!!! When BBF needs someone to go shopping with or to run errands with, or whatever.... her majesty wants...hee hee, i do it for love. When my close friends, Ns & Rx need a lunch partner or someone to gossip with, etc; etc - hee hee, love is behind my intent. When I go to Limbang with my good buddy, L.T. there's love in it too. In fact, love is all around us if we care to look.

We need to love ourselves before we love others because if we are intact inside, we will treat ourselves with love and respect. When we are surrounded with love, we will have the very best of intentions and we will invite positive and loving energy and environment. Love is such a splendour thing.

To those who celebrate Valentine's Day -- Enjoy the day.

This blog comes with a lot of good intentions and best wishes.

INTENTIONS

2008-02-06T10:59:00.001+08:00

in·ten·tion (in ten′s̸hən): the act or fact of intending; determination to do a specified thing or act in a specified manner

Intent is behind every actions. Intent is an action based on want, need and desire. As I see it, an intention is a deliberate action and therefore a free choice. There are different types of intentions. Intentions can be driven by different feelings depending where you are located spiritually or emotionally. Obviously there are positive intentions which come from a good place (kindness, generousity, benevolence). Negative intentions come from malice, anger, rage, envy and jealousy.

When you have positive intentions, the recipients of your actions will feel good, happy and loved. Your positive action says you choose to honour and respect people. What you receive in return is bountiful and it empowers you spiritually. You will feel good about yourself and you will attract good things. Positive attracts positive.

It's the opposite for negative intentions. This particular intention has the power to hurt, humiliate, belittle and anger the recipients. Negative intentions will not bring you happiness. Instead you will feel alienated, miserable and unhappy. What it says about you is the following adjectives: insecure, bitter and low self-esteem. Negative attract negative.

Life is definitely not a bed of roses. There are ups and downs and we are definitely no angels. There are times when we feel happy, sad, angry, irksome and envious. We wouldn't be humans if we don't have any of those feelings. However, as a human being we know the difference between right and wrong, truth or lies. We are actually in the driving seat. We can choose our actions and intentions for better or for worse.

February Babies

2008-02-04T09:56:00.000+08:00

Here comes February!!! There are a few February babies celebrating their birthdays this month. Here's wishing the February babies a very happy hatch day, May this year brings you good health, success and much happiness.

8 February

Tuuuu E

1828 Jules Verne (author)

On This Day In History:
1587 Mary Queen of Scots is executed.

"We can make mayors and officers every year, but not scholars." - Robert Burton - English scholar, writer, poet & clergyman (1577-1640) born on Feb 08. His "Anatomy of Melancholy" was considered a masterpiece of style and valuable index to philosophers of the time.

24 February

M-n M-n

1966 Billy Zane (actor)

On This Day In History:
1946 Juan Peron elected president of Argentina.

"Come live in my heart and pay no rent". Samuel Lover; novelist, songwriter, painter. (1797-1868) born Feb 24. He wrote "Rosy O'More" which he also developed into a play.

27 February

R-y

272 Constantine the Great (Roman Emperor)

On This Day In History:
1844 Dominican Republic becomes independent from Haiti.

"In character, in manner, in style, in all things, the supreme excellence is simplicity." Henry Wadsworth Longfellow; US poet & educator. (1807-1882) born Feb 27. The first American with a bust in Westminster Abbey, UK.

February is also a very important month for the following celebrations;

7 February Chinese New Year: Gong Xi Fa Cai. It's the year of the Rat.

23 February Brunei National Day. May our country continue to have peace & prosperity

Last note: To all the birthday babies, enjoy your day to the fullest. Hugs & Mwahh!!; To Chinese New Year celebrants, Gong Xi Fa Cai & enjoy the festivity; and to all Bruneians - be proud to be one - remember this is our country and we must love and protect this nation of us!!

A week in Memorandum

2008-01-27T09:59:00.001+08:00

I am going to review my week and share my ups and downs with you (Monday: 21 January to Sunday: 27 January ). It had been a very interesting week. As per usual, I started the week with positive vibes. Alhamdulilah. The blessings & law of attraction came in bountiful. Rx, my gorgeous good friend presented me with a beautiful and personalised diary with pictures of my furry friends. Ahhhhh....thanks Rx, you are the greatest...a true star!! Unexpected gifts were also received from three kind friends (Big kudos to BBF (mwahhh!!!), Myanmar & S---r--). The blessings didn't stop there, Ns, a sweet and lovely good friend, gave her time to help a friend of the family. Ns, you are the best babe! I think I am the luckiest and the most blessed because I have friends who are truly genuine, generous and beautiful inside and outside. Thanks people, I love you guys!. I am all choked up now!! hee hee hee

I also got to spend time with the kids. We had Japanese food for dinner at one of the restaurants in Gadong. For those who know me, i am a bit strict when it come to table manners and kids. However, when you are with kids..... age 2, 5 & 6, come again, what is table manners??. It was a bit chaotic at the dinner table!! Nevertheless, we had a wonderful dinner and a good bonding session.

Other good news of the week, S-l-n- R-o got her MA result. She got a Merit!! Congratulations!!!

During the week, I was in the cooking mood. Tuuu E and R-o were the lucky recipients of my talent. Har!har!har! Thanks MM, Tuuuu E & R-o for sleeping over. I know you enjoyed my company tremendously!!! Well, you can't help yourselves!! hehehehehehe. I must say that it was a really wonderful girls nite in. Lovely session -- we slept at 4:30am. Poor girls...they had to rise early for work whilst moi was able to sleep in and catch up with my beauty sleep. hehehehe. Big kudos to Bubu for giving me a lift to S-b-i--'s place. Lovely food at S-b-i--'s, the rest of the clan were there too. Had an interesting time with Tuuu I--t; J-n-y P--s and other members of the family.

Work-in-progress: A family project which will be unveiled when its ready. I am so excited about this!!

At work, it had been fruitful. I was able to meet all my deadlines...hurrah!!. Yes, I had run ins with my frenemies but it didn't affect my whole week. I refused to let it so. Note to self; the power of visualization is extremely handy. The usage is highly recommended.

BBF is the icing on the cake. What can I say, she is my kindred spirit.

A special dedication to F-o who is tremendously beautiful, get well soon and will pray for your speedy recovery.

Today is R-s's birthday. Happy birthday to you. May your today starts with good things in life!! Otherwise, it has been a lazy sunday, watching Tv with Tuuu E and later we are off for some Indian food. As I write this, Tuuu E is still on the couch (she was up briefly to make toasts for us). Yup, she hasn't taken her shower yet!!! Hehehehehe. Smell-good-moi has been up and busy since this morning!!!

In summary, it has been a good week. I am blessed with loving family and good friends. Note to self: Remain positive and be grateful for each blessing.

Picture Perfect

2008-01-24T17:02:00.001+08:00

I was looking at my collection of pictures. I thought these are beautiful....hmmmm, of course moi took the pictures!!! Hee hee hee, false modesty or not, I am sharing the snapshots with my adoring public!! har!har!har! These wildlife are our treasures and it is our duty to protect these beautiful creatures for our common future.

Plate 1. Orang Utan

Plate 2. White Tiger

Plate 3. Ring-tailed Lemur

Plate 4. Two Sharks

Plate 5. Isn't she lovely???

Frenemies II

2008-01-23T09:14:00.001+08:00

Today, I am going to vent about 4 frenemies. These species have been getting on my nerves recently, more so than usual. Some days, i just ignore these insignificant insects/rodents. It has been extremely trying these past few days for me!! I have been filled with the following negative emotion: anger, rage, loathe and dislike for these 4 (four) frenemies!!! There's even this little robotic voice in my head that says"kill! kill! Kill! Exterminate!!!". Frankly, I need a Terminator!!

Introducing the Frenemies

1. The Bitch and the W*#ke*. Do be v.v. careful--these two are extremely poisonous!
2. Freak of nature. Rotten, pesky, irritating, sly, crafty, creepy crawlies! Shelltox anyone?
3. Absolute Prick. It is what the name suggests and more!!!!

Wouldn't it be just swell to swat them like flies???!!! After the deed is done, I can boast to the whole village and say, "four in one blow" - tee hee hee. I am really FED UP!! I have been STRAIGHT with THEM and said N0! N0! N0 M0re! Enough! Get a life!! Shove it up your Fu*k**! A*#!, Do they understand?? Nope!! Stupid buggers!!! Total nincompoops!! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!, they deserve to eat poop!! hee hee hee

Frankly, I am tired dealing with numb-skulls. I don't want to get angry and attract negative energy. It's not good for me!!! I refuse to allow these nincompoops to have power over me! This entry is one way to vent and heal me. However, before the healing process begins, i have a wish list;

Throw frenemies in a pool of s#*t!!! There's where they belong!!!
Turn them into toilet-bowls!!
Let them eat s#*t for breakfast, lunch & dinner for eternity!!

Now, that feels really good. I am no longer angry. I am amused. The power of visualization create pictures in my mind and I am laughing now!!! Who can get angry with s#*t!!!!!

Things to remember

Anger can lead one to lose self control
Negativity is poisonous
The power of visualization is sublime
I am going to treat myself with love and respect so that I will attract people who show me love and respect

Mantra for today
"When people irritate you etc, use the power of visualization - imagine them as s@#t!!!!"

Sun Therapy

2008-01-21T15:42:00.000+08:00

Recently, a friend lent me a book called "Sun Therapy". It was a very interesting read. The book offers valuable insights into the techniques and benefits of sun therapy that can help you lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that the sun is the source of life on earth. The solar energy technologies harness the sun's energy for practical ends. Modern solar technologies provide heating, lighting and electricity. According to the book, the solar energy can also be used to treat various ailments of the body. The following are some highlights from the book which I like to share with everyone;

Fill clean bottles of orange, green and blue colours with drinking water, leaving one-quarter of the bottles empty;
Close these bottles with lids and keep in the sun for 6 to 8 hours, ensuring that they are kept apart, so that their shadows do not fall upon each other;
These bottles now contain solarised water which has medicinal properties. They can be stored and administered for 4 to 5 days.

Blood Pressure

Take solarised green water and solarised blue water for high blood pressure
For low blood pressure, take solarised green water and solarised orange water twice or thrice a day.

Cold and Cough

Solarised green water is ideal for cold and cough

Migraine

Take solarised green water and solarised orange water frequently

Ulcers

one dose of solarised green water and two doses of solarised blue water before meals

Try it...after all, the sun is free for us living in the tropics. It has been said since time immemorial that sun rays have healing powers. Believe it or not??!! Old wives' Tales???!!!

Superstitions

2008-01-17T16:16:00.000+08:00

Have you ever done the following: touch wood for luck; avoid walking under a ladder; do the sia-sia pun; twirl your belly button when ever you hear / see undesirable things, say "jauh palis"??? Now, all these are old wives' tales, myths, folklore, urban legends and superstitions. Suffice to say, every cultures have them and old wives' tales are definitely found all over the world. Superstitions are perhaps as old as language itself. They are part of our oral tradition and generally passed down from one generation to the next. It is interesting to note that despite modern advances and modernization, we still cling to old wives' tales, myths, folklore, urban legends, superstitions.

Most old wives' tales are false / nonsense (this claim will definitely inspire some debate!! -- some will say that old wives' tales are based on truth and have merely been distorted by the passage of time or interpretations!!). Old wives' tales can be 'used and abused' (tee hee hee) to discourage unwanted behaviour in children. There are of course some truth in the tales but the veracity is likely coincidental. The following should be taken with a pinch of salt;

You will catch your death of cold by walking around with wet hair.
If you keep pulling faces, one day the wind will change and you'll get stuck that way.
Chewing gum, if swallowed, remains inside your body for seven years.
Amber beads, worn as a necklace, can protect against illness or cure colds.
It is bad luck to cut your fingernails on Friday or Sunday.
Pulling out a white hair will cause ten more to grow in its place.
If the palm of your right hand itches it means you will soon be getting money.
Horseshoes and rabbit foot will bring you luck.

Old wives' tales permeate every aspect of our lives. It has been said that if you suspend a ring held by a piece of thread over the palm of the pregnant girl you can predict the sex of a baby. Apparently, if the ring swings in a circular motion the baby will be a girl. It's a boy if the ring swings in a straight line. Believe it or not!! According to old wives' tales, you can also predict a child's character based on the day of the week s/he is born.

Monday's child is fair of face;
Tuesday's child is full of grace;
Wednesday's child is full of woe;
Thursday's child has far to go;
Friday's child is loving and giving;
Saturday's child works hard for a living.
But the child that is born on the Sabbath day is fair and wise, good and gay.

The question is "do you believe in superstitions?? They have been around the human cultures for thousand of years. Shall we debunk the so-called old wives' tales in the name of modernization and progress??? What do you think???

This entry is dedicated to Ns and Rx. Thanks for the inspiration.

Kids! Kids! Kids!

2008-01-10T10:35:00.000+08:00

Kids can be our greatest joy, pests and irritants!!! hee hee. DON'T GET ME WRONG, i love kids in general and i am extremely fond of those that I know. Personally, I have some up close and personal relationships with different types of children --"plucked chickens" a.k.a newly borns/babies - hee hee, toddlers, kids and teenagers!! Kids or children in general are like the four seasons - they can be very unpredictable; changelings; tempestuous and temperamental.....one minute they can be very loveable, cute, angelic, fun and the next, they can be boisterous, annoying, quarrelsome, mischievous, envious, pesky, sulky, cry-babies, stubborn, telling tales, self-absorbed and spoilt!! I will be alternately going between aahhhh (so cute) or grrrrrrr (clenching my teeth!!!)

I will shout it from the top of a mountain that I love peace and quiet!! I also like round the clock well-behaved children -- what am i saying is so totally against the grain!!! Misbehaving and children go hand in hand together!!! They can be good for a few hours and then, it's back to normal selves!! When they are very, very, quiet, be on alert...it's dangerous!! They are up to something!!! Anyway, when they misbehave --well, i try my utmost best to be very patient, accomodating, ignore them, bear and grin it, so to speak....but when its a continuous misdemeanour -- its grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!! roooaaaarrrrr!!!

Recently, I was on hols with 2 (TWO) kids (age 11 and age 6) on my own for (3) THREE whole days!!! Usually, I have help -- maids and family members. Can you imagine the pounding headche..no scrap that, the migraine (on my part that is!!!); imagine also the constant whinging, moaning and groaning and not forgetting the petty fights; imagine too poor moi getting stressed and very, very, exhausted!!!!! By the end of the day, it's not surprising that I was a total wreck, extremely knackered and very, very shattered!!! Morever, its amazing, despite them pleading "fatique" when i mentioned the word "shopping", when these magic words "ice cream", "play" and "Macdonald" were uttered.....hey presto! they were suddenly so full of energy.....its like live wire -- What's the fairness in that??!!!

Plate 1: Child no 1, H age 11

Plate 2: Child no. 2, A age 6.

Having said that though, I enjoyed the me time together with the kids. It was fun although I admit that I lost it a couple of times when I couldn't handle the squabbling, the pushing and the pinching between the two kids, the crying, the sulks and the telling-tales!! Kids huh!!! It was a good adventure for the three of us - the two kids and I. Adults are so very jaded and blase about life and stuff. I think in some sense we have lost that starry dust in our eyes. Not so with kids. It was indeed wonderful to re-experience things with the kids. The looks in their eyes, the excitement, the sense of wonder, the joy, the laughter and the fun of experiencing new stuff in their young lives. I am grateful to be able to experience those first time feelings with them again!!!

What have I learnt about my time alone with the kids??? Despite, sending lots of text messages telling tales of woes to loved ones, don't expect any sympathy or empathy but to expect laughter and mockeries from the so-called loved ones. I vow not take the help/assistance from family members and maids for granted ever again!! They are God send. I salute mothers, especially single-mothers all over the world. They deserve a special day dedicated to them. Looking after children is no easy task and i also salute parents world wide for their patience, endurance, support and love for their kids. Here, I record my greatest appreciation and thank to my parents. I kow tow to them.

Grateful Journel

2008-01-03T08:13:00.000+08:00

Oprah Winfrey once said, we should be keeping a "grateful journal". In it you "list five things that happened this day that you are grateful for. What it will begin to do is change your perspective of your day and your life." I confess that i keep a grateful journal and i write in my diary once a week instead of the recommended once a day!!!

It can be challenging to write a grateful journal because some of the stuff that i wrote tend to be repetitive and hence not interesting!! I was reading Icheh's blog yesterday and in it she listed "interesting and be interested" as one of her new year resolutions. It struck a chord for sure. How to ensure that I remain appreciative, and don’t slip back on to the easy to adopt bad habit of continually wanting more and always desiring what ever the “Joneses” have.

I am not going to lie and say I don't wonder about the grass on the other side of the fence. I am sure we all do and think of "what if...?" or "shall i jump over to the other side?". Sometimes, it’s easy to forget how lucky we are. I am “counting my blessings” and making sure that it's a regular part of my life. In general, I am going to share 10 things I have listed in my diary over the years.

10 Things I am grateful for;

1. My family is not perfect but we all make sense!! Idiosyncrasies aside, we love each other!!

2. I have a superb, fantastic and wonderful BBF

3. I have loved and been loved

4. My felines are my greatest joy

5. The kids love and adore me

6. I am a superb cook, a fact that thrill my nieces (esp Tuu E--- and Bubu) no end!!

7. I am shy but people percieve me as this dynamo with big personality!! (hehehe)

8. I live in a beautiful and peaceful country with lots of greenery

9. I am grateful for my sounding boards and good friends: Ns, Rx, Icheh & LT

10. A muslim woman born in Brunei, not in the Middle-east

I am tagging the following people to list down 10 things they are grateful for;

1. Padian
2. Balsy
3. Iskiness
4. Jacqui
5. Silly Gooseness
6. Ns
7. Rx
8. Icheh
9. Long Long
10. Anyone who reads this blog

Finally, my advice to all, "if you think the grass is greener over the other side of the fence then spend more time tending to your own garden!"

Favourite Moments 2007

2008-01-02T10:40:00.000+08:00

I have some wonderful memories of 2007. These are my 10 top favourite;

1. Family gatherings

2. S-br--a's engagement

3. The wedding of the year-- J & JJ's and coordinating the flower girls & bridesmaid's frocks

4. A Seplise in the family; Hello to new friends Biru; Y-li; MM's December Collection & Dixie

5. Tuuu I--t got her Distinction and H-z-q got his 5 As.

6. Pr-ci--s was hatched; M-r-y-h (Ns's daughter) was hatched

7. A sojourn to Limbang with my good buddy; L--u T---n

8. Bonding sessions with the kids; nieces & nephews and siblings.

9. Moments with my BBF

10. Ns, Rx, I-h-h are my essentials and favourite people :)

Below are my top pictures of 2007

Plate 1. The kids at Empire

Plate 2: The kids at the beach

Plate 2. Mr. C & Silver Tabby

January Babies

2008-01-02T09:26:00.000+08:00

It's my wall of january celebrants. I like to wish "january hatchers" a very, very, happy, happy birthdays. There are family members who are celebrating their hatch days this month near and far -- all my prayers, hugs and love are with you. Enjoy the day people!!

19 January
P-m-k-n

Janis Joplin (Singer)
Edgar Allan Poe (Poet & writer)

21 January
Ka S-l--h

Geena Davis (Oscar nominated actress)
Benny Hill (Famous comedian)

23 January
T-n-

John Hancock (the first person to sign the United States Declaration of Independence)
Edouard Manet (French Realist / Impressionalist Painter)

24 January
J-l-s

Mischa Barton (Actress)
Neil Diamond (Singer)

27 January
R-s

Lewis Carroll (Writer - Alice in wonderland)
Mozart (Classical composer)

29 January
S-az-
P-e-i--s

Oprah Winfrey (TV Talk host show, philanthropist)
Tom Sellect (Actor)

Happy Birthdays. Enjoy the day as today is your present.

Happy New Year 2008

2008-01-01T00:36:00.001+08:00

Good bye 2007.... Hello 2008. Lets hope this year will be a future of hope, personal growth and opportunities. Some of you will be making new year resolutions as a way to mark/celebrate the beginning of a new you. However, I am not going to bother because......

10 Resolutions I shouldn't bother to make

1. To give up chocolate altogether

2. To stop making excuses

3. To stop from impulse buying/shopping

4. To convince people that I'm shy really...for some strange reasons, they mock me!!!

5. To exercise religiously...

6. To stop saying " I have nothing to wear" :)

7. To declutter my office and wardrobe....be more organized!!!

8. Be nice to frenemies

9. Be more gregarious --- anti-social attitude to be banished from my dictionary!! NOT!!

10. Shouldn't bother with new year resolutions...

To everyone ---- Happy New Year 2008. May this year brings us positive changes, good health, fruitful endeavours, love and happiness. Though on a personal note, I like to order my own Mr. Darcy, preferably stinkingly wealthy!!! hehehehehe

I Have Been Tagged!!!

2007-12-29T21:16:00.000+08:00

Padian tagged moi to write about "8 Random Facts/Habits About Me"

Here are the Tagging rules;

1. Each blogger must post these rules.

2. Each Blogger starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.

3. Bloggers that are tagged need to write on their own blog about their eight things post these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.

4. Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they've been tagged and read your blog.

Eight random facts/habits about me

1. Contrary to popular opinion, I am a shy person.

2. I can be very anti-social!!

3. I have always wanted a tattoo but am too scared of needles!

4. I love to drink TEA

5. I sleep with my furry friends

6. I absolutely adore Oprah

7. I love nature in its entirety

8. I really want to marry a multi-billionaire!! (Donald Trump, Hugh Hefner and other rich, pervy, corrupt, ugly wrinklies need not apply - rejected outright!!!)

These are the people tagged:

1. Iskiness

2. Balsy

3. Ns

4. Silly Gooseness

5. Long Long

6. London SW11

7. JP

8. Anyone who read this blog entry!!!

Noel! Noel!

2007-12-25T12:10:00.000+08:00

I have been reminding myself to buy some christmas cards to send off to friends. I forgot in all the excitement and luxury of having the time and space for me, myself & I -- yup i'm on hols!! Yes, that's an excuse....!! To all who read my blog and celebrate Christmas, here's wishing you all a Happy Christmas and a wonderful new year 2008. This wish is also specially dedicated to:

JP
The Birmingham friends
My 7 wonders (Leeds, Manchester, Harrogate, Sheffield, Margate, London, SW11 London)
Rx, N--k & G-o---e
Fl- & family
J & family in Chicago
P & M E-t-n in Derbyshire
Ch--- & family in Dubai
M or biru who hails from Germany
Dixie

Have a wonderful and festive season. Enjoy and don't over induldge (hehehe - that message is esp for JP & my 7 wonders!!)

Introducing Annie

2007-12-24T10:09:00.000+08:00

For this entry, i have a guest blogger. Her name is Annie.

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

Hi everyone. 10 Things to know about me;

1. I am 6 years old

2. I have a brother called H---q

3. I love kuih cincin

4. My favourite colours are pink, yellow, blue & purple

5. I love Barbie dolls

6. I go to school at PGGMB

7. My favourite movie is Enchanted

8. I love to eat brocolli

9. I have a boyfriend

10. I love everyone in the family

Hugs,
Annie x x x x x x x x x ;)

Introducing Mr. C

2007-12-22T23:13:00.000+08:00

This adorable ginger tom cat goes by the name of Mr. C. He is the strong, macho and silent type. No one dares to cross Mr. C when he is stroppy -- not even the so called "terror of the neighbourhood" - my silver tabby will definitely give Mr. C a wide berth!!

It has been said that ginger cats are born with red hair traits. Mr. C is definitely spirited and fiery and yet he can be very laid back, languid and affectionate. I must admit though that he has a very hot temper when annoyed - just like human red-heads!! Mr. C hates it when people teases him (warning to Mr. C's tormentors: I know who you are!!! Beware) and he doesn't take it lying down-- he can be very sly and crafty when it comes to exacting his vengence. Just ask any of his tomentors (now his poor victims) - hehehehe

Plate 1: It's gorgeous Mr.C

Plate 2: Mr. C and Ms. O

plate 3: Mr. C is very sleepy now...purr

Mr. C is extremely delightful. Because of his coat colour - he has several nicknmaes to his credit such as Red; Orange; Marmalade and Wartel. Mr. C has looks and personality -- what more can this feline ask for??? Purr...Purr...Purr....

Stay Tuned

Introducing "The Terror of the Neighbourhood"

2007-12-21T00:37:00.000+08:00

I have been talking about my feline friends in my purrvious entries. I have two furry friends. This is one of them. Here, she is in one of her moods. She can be such a diva but to moi, she is absolutely purrfect. You can tell from the pictures she's very personable and has a great sense of humour.

Plate 1: Isn't she cute??

Plate 2: Miss Catnip 2007

Plate 3: I'm dreaming of catnip...yummy!!!

Despite her good looks, this particular feline is the terror of the neighbourhood. Cats and even dogs in the block kow tow to this queen. She is one special kitty as she possesses psychic power (refer to purrvious entry on E.S.P.). This tabby sleeps in my room at night. She would sometimes share my pillow and I would wake up with her head beside mine. Isn't she fabpurrless??

Watch This Space

Beauty-licious

2007-12-20T01:41:00.000+08:00

A few weeks ago, a close friend and I were having a discussion about this very topic. How do we define beauty???? What do we find beautiful? When it comes to an object of desire and beauty, lets take the Mona Lisa as an example. In my opinion, the model/sitter in that painting is not exactly beautiful and yet it is arguably the most famous painting in the world and interestingly few other works of art have been subject to much scrutiny, study, mythologizing and parody. (read Dan Brown's The Vincci Code or Sigmund Freud's intrepretation about Mona Lisa's smile!. Why do art aficionado find beauty in Leonardo de Vincci's Mona Lisa??

Its a truth universally acknowledged fact that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder". It would be very nice if the world leave it at that!! Unfortunately, we are living in a Barbie's world!! I think it's so pathetic that public perception of beauty is limited to the harsh and cold visage of the typical “Super Model”. You have to be a certain size and possess certain looks in order to be acceptable. But it is generally women who are the cattiest about each other's looks, rather than men. It's women who sneer at other women for being overweight, unattractive or whatever. Magazines and newspapers are full of articles by women picking away at other women's looks.

In Barbie's world, fat is bad; thinness will bring you happiness. This is being taken to extreme in the fashion industry's 'waif' look; hollow cheeks and skeletal bodies. The media is a powerful medium and media images are continually reinforced in everyday life. Comments on women's appearance are so commonplace and accepted that we can underestimate the effect they have on how women perceive themselves. It can create a deep sense of dissatisfaction amongst women about their bodies, a sense of insecurity about themselves and the notion between the 'ideal' body and reality!! But why can't women just ignore this pressure to be a certain size or looks?? Is it vanity?? Is it society?? What is it???

Whatever it is,..... I rather be a real woman...curves and all, not a plastic display piece!! My body is my temple.....health comes first before beauty. After all, you may have the right looks or size but if you are ugly inside, that's really sad...and if all you think about is your image...then i feel really sorry for you sister!!! Get a life!!!

C'mon ladies, unite!! Don't be a slave to an ideal body image. Be healthy. Have a health body and a healthy body image. Don't be obsessed with an ideal weight. Convinced? Don't throw that scale yet (being sarky here..hehehe)!!

This entry is dedicated to Rx who inspires this entry. Hugs XXX

To others - Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Adha.