The Juggling Queen

Me, Myself and Shoes

2011-10-13T06:13:00.000+04:00

After 4 years of being a SAHM (Stay At Home Mom), one thing I missed so much is high heels shoes. Don't get me wrong, I had a few high heels, wedges in my keep. Not to forget a some 'flats' for my comfort when shopping.

I don't know what when wrong now, but I just realized I CANNOT wear a fully covered shoes anymore. Covered shoes or high heels looks good on my feet BUT, it hurts so much! It feels okay at first, but after a few hours of wearing it, it started to hurt on certain specific point. especially at the back of my foot. Then, at the end side of my foot next to my toes. To those who already experienced this, I think you would definitely understands.

But please help me, I just can't resist all those yummy, sexy looking high heels that I saw at the windows of my favourite shoe stores. When it came to this, I end up wearing wedges, or open toe high heels. Which is not the specific shoes that you should wear in the government offices.

I walked a lot in the office. I walked with high heels before and it never gives me any problem. I loved looking good in the office wearing a matching shoes to my dress. And the confident they gave me when I am walking. I am not that tall, neither I am short, but with my heights, high heels or wedges gives me the credit to make me look taller and slimmer. So, in this case I really do need a comfortable heels.

Another problem that occurs and worried me is my spending on shoes. I spend my time and money on so many shoes I bought, but it end up in my stores or in the car boot. This is what happened when you wear that shoes for a 2 hours and realized it hurts like hell! I tried putting those see-through gel thingy, in my shoes so that it helps reducing or comforting the hurt points on my feet, and guess what? It doesn't work! False advertisement. Those thing are supposed to stick and the shoes and protect that points, but it sticks on my foot and I still end up with reddish and swollen feet.

For now, I've been wearing my favourite wedges and still looking for the right and comfortable shoes to replace this seasoned and peeled-heel wedges. If anybody have any suggestion to me, please let me know okay? So help me in my mission, and wish me luck!!

Great To Be back!!

2011-10-07T11:06:00.001+04:00

Hello ladies!

I know, I know! I've been away tooooo loongg!!

As most of you aware I am a working mom now. What's with juggling everything with my two hands?? Job, family, me, myself and I.. Huh.!

Anyway, I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. Maybe, and maybe it is time for me to seriously pursue my dream. But, with one step at a time. Starting with the launch of my new blog.

Check it out, okay? :) www.fairusbasir.blogspot.com

Hugs and kisses from us!

XOXOX

Bubur Caca

2011-05-18T11:46:00.001+04:00

It's been 3 whole weeks and I am still craving for this one special sweets (atleast special to me). Bubur caca. Not the sweet potato version, but the all colourful made of flour kind of caca. Enough babbling! Let's see how it's done, and what we need.

A packet of dry colourful 'caca' flour in packet. You can get it from the usual groceries stores, market or hyper-market. I used the instant coconut milk (I don't have all the time in the world for cooking now, so this helps a LOT!) 2 pieces of screwpine leaves (daun pandan), put it together, from the bottom of the leaves, tear it apart right down in the middle (it will ripped easily), and then put it altogether, fold and tied it up just like in the picture or anyway you like. It doesn't matter.

In a boiling water, pour the 'caca' as much is needed.

let it boiled and simmer until it is soft and tender.

After that, drain it in a strainer or colander.

meanwhile, boiled the coconut milk in a moderately slow heat altogether with the screwpine leaves, stirring it all the time to avoid the coconut from boiling too much or it will spoil the texture.

when the coconut milk is almost boiling, pour in the sugar and a pinch of salt for taste.

when the coconut milk is ready or almost boiling, pour in the well done 'caca', into it and stir well. Let it simmer, and taste it. Turn off the heat when it's done.

Like it? Here are the full recipe

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cup of dry colourful caca flour
1 1/2 cup thick coconut milk
3 cups of water (depends on how you like your coconut milk thickness)a pinch of salt8 tbsp of sugar2 pieces of screwpine leaves (pandan)
How to:
Boiled some water just enough for boiling the dry caca flour.
When it's soft and tender, strained it.
Boiled the mixture of coconut milk and water with the screwpine leaves.
Mix in the sugar and a pinch of salt.
Stir in with a moderately slow heat careful not until it boiling, let it simmer slowly.
when the coconut milk is slowly simmering, pour in the caca flour, and carefully stir it altogether.
Stir it until it's done and ready.
Turn off the heat, and serve it.

Le Peu Papillon... Our New Shop Is Officially opened!!

2011-04-06T05:59:00.000+04:00

After a long months of surveying and planning, looking for suppliers, getting the supplies, our shop finally opened!

To be frank I am nervous about it. I am worried about whether or not people will buy my stuff, will they even visit my web?

I started out with a small amount of money with a few items with assorted colours, designs and sizes. Not much, but it's a start.

The name? Yeah, I loved French, and my kids loves butterfly. It inspired me to name the shop 'Le Peu Papillon'. It means 'Little Butterfly'

So, here I am. Starting my business, and it's officially opened today!

What we have?

My priority is to cater 100% authentic (original) clothing line for babies, toddler and children up to 7 years old. We chose our items carefully. It is branded, original and from good material just like they made for the boutique.

I made sure that the items we provided are of high quality and standard with reasonable and affordable price. You can save a lot more here for the same thing at the boutique.

Right now I am worried of the customers that are used to buying cheaper non-authentic stuff, might start comparing the price. But I am ready to assure them that the cheap stuff available outside, won't have the same quality as I am providing.

Well, I hope you guys drop by and visit my shop anytime soon. It's nothing much for now, but I hope with your supports it may grow to be a bigger 'Papillon' one day.

Visit us at 'Le Peu Papillon'

COACH vs VANISH

2011-03-07T06:11:00.000+04:00

I am fed up with my stained Satin Jazzy Hobo COACH!

Because it;s COACH and Satin, I am reluctant to give it a try on washing my self. As I referred to my friend Cat Yong from Bag Hauz, it has to be sent to the boutique for spa or cleaning. Or DIY at home by using a delicate wash. But using a delicate wash doesn't remove not even an inch of the stain. It looks like a 'beg buruk' already. Because it's beige satin and you know how soft colour like that can easily get stained if you're not careful (like me).

this is how mine looked like. and I'm adding more!

But I had it!

I have to do it, because I couldn't afford to go to COACH boutique in KL just to drop it to get it clean, and when the times come to pick it up, I don't know when am I going to pick up the bag? I hate driving in KL, I won't even bother going into KL if I have to do it alone.

And then I knew what I have to do. I saw a bottle of Vanish liquid ( the pink bottle sort of like bleach like thingy but oxygen based, and safe for colour). I got an idea. I pour it in a pail with a scoop of powder detergent. I soak in the water just enough for my bag, and there you go Jazzy Hobo! Have a dip!

After 30 minutes, I took it out, using a soft bristle toothbrush (old toothbrush), I brush the bag gently but making it all over the bag. I rinse it gently but thoroughly, and let it air dry until the water from the bag is drained out and the bag is damp.

The first thing in the morning when I saw the first ray of morning light, I took the bag out and let it dry under the morning sun, as the it's harmless for us. So I assumed, it's ok for the bag as it won't damaged the texture and colour.

After one hour, I took it in and finally the moment of truth. I looked at the bag and looked all brand new all over again! It's clean, shinier and smells good too! Well there you go, I done it again! it works and the bag is safe.I saved my time and most improtantly MONEY! :))

Cheers!

Bangi's Little White Cafe

2011-02-10T10:32:00.000+04:00

To all English style deco fans,

I recommend you to come to this place.

To all healthy eating, English style food, cakes and pastry fan,

You too, have to come here!

I've read a few comments and review about how people describe this place and the food. Some are positive and not to forget the negative comments too.

What I think about it?

Well from the intro above I bet you guys can tell which group I am, didn't you? Well I am a fan of healthy eating and English or Western food lovers. Please don't get me wrong, I loved Nasi Lemak and Rendang Ayam, but since we've been staying Dubai For almost 5 years, I had a wake up call about how important it is to eat healthy. Since in Malaysia, it's quite hard to find some of the regular ingredients which can easily be found in Dubai, the food in this cafe is like a Mana from heaven.

About the cafe,

At the first sight of the entrance, you would sigh at the home-like deco and the signs. (which i forgot the photo, will upload later). A blue and white concept of deco with those white picket fence at the porch. With window glasses, and displaying pastries and cakes on the right window. As soon as the white french doors opened for you, you will again sigh at the interiors of the cafe. So homely and romantic!

the owner and look at the settings. the glassy section is the kitchen.

I love this one

birthday girl. and do you see the glass display of the desserts?

Yana and Acai. Love thos wall behind them.

How we end up here? It started with one of my close friend. We were planning a birthday celebration (belated) for the other close friend of ours. Being all stressed out, for the where about for us to go and celebrate, she came up with an idea. She always passed by this cafe at Bangi. At the block of new shop lots just behind the Warta Bangi, near the Mosque. It looks so inviting and cute! So we googled, and we found a few blog that blogs about it.

you can read it here and here

So we finally decided, we wanna try this cafe and here we are.

The well mannered waiters and waitress, add up to the cozy ambiance. You will see the all white settings with matching furnitures and fixtures. They even had photos, beautiful photos hanging up on one side of the wall. Here come the good parts. The menu! It's a pretty in black, and it's handwritten. All of it! The menus, they're all mouth watering. But the sad part is, they don't have as much as they should (or we expected).

The cafe's not too big or too small which can fit around 20 to 25 people at a time. On the right side of the cafe, there's a white bar where they prepared all the delicious drinks with a glass display of all the cakes and pastries. Behind the bar there's a blackboard on the wall and almost all of their menus are written on the board. The handwritten writings gives the most personal touch to this cafe. At the far end corner of the cafe you can almost see the chefs in the kitchen through the glass wall that separates the area.

The owner a nice Malay Lady which I forgot her name, attend to us and recommend us whats and whats to eat and drink. She even took her time to briefly explain each menu.

cute!

love the cranberry cooler

baked potatoes and sausage

My roast-beef sandwich. Still dream about it..

the counter or bar or something..

chocolate surprises

that wall is lovely isn't it?

balik time!

In the end, we ordered chef's salad, roast beef sandwich (my favourite!), baked potatoes and sausages.

To me, I'm always a fan! So I don't have any problem adapting to this kind of meal. We loved it!

Now for the dessert, we do had trouble choosing. Of course everything looks yummy and we want to eat it all! But we had, a Chocolate Surprise (which their first time serving it in the cafe, and dying to know what do we think about it), I had Lemon Tart, and Yana had Carrot Cake. Frankly, it is better, wayyyy.. better than Secret recipe's carrot cake or other cakes.

After the meal, I had a chat with one of the waiter that seems interested with me holding my camera. And I found out they just recently opened about 2 weeks (at that time). Which make it a month at this moment as I am writing about it.

As we're leaving, I promised myself I will come here again, while waving at the friendly hostess of the cafe.

Diva vs Lawyers

2011-01-11T11:34:00.000+04:00

Since I started working like a month ago, I don't have that much time to watch TV. All the soap operas, drama that I used to loved to watch before (during my non-working time), is all forgotten. Because I have to catch up on so many things, from preparing dinner (now that's settle when I cooked the whole dinner and lunch stock and keep it frozen), to feeding the kids, bath them, tuck them, do the laundry, clean the house, and getting ready the kids' things, my things, hubby's things for tomorrow.

Only on Tuesday.

There's one drama that I won't missed for the world. I've been watching the 1st season way back when I was in Dubai. Which is the same time as America's time they put on on air. What? Oh? I watched DROP DEAD DIVA. Ever heard of it? Yeah me too! Back in Dubai, there were so many dramas that is so awesome that you don't wanna missed it. When I discovered that we have to fly home PERMANENTLY.. I almost cry. Really, I do.

Why?

There's no DROP DEAD DIVA in Malaysia. That's why! No GLEE.. (another drama that made me go CUCKOO), so how am I to cope with the not watching THEM??? I am going to missed SHOWSERIES on SHOWTIME.

After 2 months in Malaysia, I saw this commercial on TV (Thanks to Mr.Fadzil for subscribing ASTRO BEYOND), AXN Beyond (which available for ASTRO BEYOND subscribers only). It's Brooke Elliot in DROP DEAD DIVA! OMG, they had it all along, and they just finished season 1, and what I saw was the repetition of season 1 right where I missed back in Dubai. Believe it or not I was so happy that I was screaming (a bit), laughing and smiling alone!

This repeat show was on air every Thursday, and I watched it every week until the season finale episode. Which made sigh at the happy and full of questions ending of the episode. But not for long, my smile grew even broader as they put on the promo for DROP DEAD DIVA season 2 that will be air in 2 weeks on Tuesday! So that's how it happened. My routine every Tuesday.

What it's all about?

Well, let make it short. Drop Dead Diva is a legal-comedy/fantasy drama that revolves around Deb (played by Brooke D'Orsay in pilot episode and flashback) a blonde vapid and aspiring model who died in a car accident, and when her soul reaches the gate of Heaven, there's a slight of a mixed up. The gatekeeper Fred (Ben Feldman), declared that she's a self centered 'zero' as she performed no good deeds or bad deeds when she was alive. That's where things goes wrong. She pressed a reset button hoping to go back to earth, but end up a recently deceased Jane Bingum (Brooke Elliot). An intelligent and overweight lawyer.

So now, she have to go through a new life, identity and a new wardrobe (of course when they put you back to earth in a body of size 16). But in this way, she became the new Jane and learned of the inner beauty instead of the outside, while try to reconnect with Deb's ex boyfriend Grayson (Jackson Hurst) who just started in the same law firm as Jane.

The only person that knew of her secret is her life long mortal friend Stacy (April Bowlby) and her guardian angle Fred.

What I really loved about this Jane, is the way she dressed, her make up, her intelligent and the way she spoke. All the vocabs and Prada talks made me more confident and feeling beautiful from the inside. As Jane is an overweight lawyer, smart and beautiful because she knows how to dress and look appropriate (suitable make up and dress as woman of her size).

The appearance of many stars like Paula Abdul and Liza Minelli as a guest stars made the drama juicier to watch too.

VS lawyers.

Well, FYI on Tuesday, AXN Beyond on Astro had slot of Super Duper-licious Tuesday. Starting from 8 to 11 pm. Starts with Marriage Ref at 8pm and then MY Drop Dead Diva at 9pm and the last one The Defenders at 10pm.

Well, after my slot of Drop Dead Diva (which mr.Fadzil will definitely joined because he cannot resist to watch too), usually Mr.Fadzil takes over the remote and TV for his show. THE DEFENDERS, is a legal comedy drama, sets in Las Vegas, Nevada (reminding me of CSI) and revolves around a pair of defense attorney, Pete Kaczmarek (Jerry O'Connel) a free-wheeling playboy lawyer and Nick Morelli (James Belushi) Pete's partner and very passionate about his job and his client. They go out and about helping people around them while trying to put their personal lives in order.

That is Mr Fadzil's slot, which I don't really watch (maybe a peek while doing the dishes). That's how our Tuesdays nights goes on. It's like a routine that you won't want to missed. exchanging seats and remotes after one show an another is like a usual transmission since I started to work and trying to catch up with my personal lives and some ME time.

So thinking about watching this? Go to channel 720, AXN Beyond Tuesday night from 9 to 11 pm. That's tonight!

The Best Cendol Ever!

2011-01-10T10:08:00.000+04:00

Fuh, how long since I last wrote? And suddenly I'm writing about cendol after quite sometimes. To those who knew me, they knew I am a fan of cendol for as long as I can remember. So I wanna share a favourite spot where we all had our cendol for a very long time since I was little (maybe long before I was born).

I couldn't really remember for how long they had been in business. They were there for as long as I can remember. When I was little, we used to eat the cendol right away on the bench they provided next to their stall. Who? Oh the nice mamak guy and his sons. His a muslim Indian, and sells cendol for a living. Man! The cendol is so GOOOOODD!!!!!!! I never had any cendol as good as this guy's cendol. Everytime we went back to my mother's hometown in Kanchong Darat, Banting, eating cendol on the way back is a must! And we do tapau a few packs after that.

Oh, yeah. What is cendol?

Cendol is a traditional dessert originating from South East Asia which is still popular in Indonesia, Malaysia, Sinagpore, Vietnam, Philippines and Vietnam.

It's a green worm-like jelly that is made of rice flour and moong bean flour. The base is coconut milk and palm (or brown sugar). Some people improvise it by adding glutinuos rice, grass jelly, red bead, tapioca pearl or sago.

look at that tapioca pearl, so inviting, along with the thin, soft yummy green cendol.

and the classic, chinese rice porcelain bowl, is among the thing that made it special.

The most unique thing about cendol Banting (that's what everybody called it), is the sentimental things that made you close your eyes and remembering your childhood and how our grandparents lives in their younger lifetimes. The cendol is served in an old porcelain chinese rice bowl. Which what made it so unique (to me).

But it's not only the bowl, the cendol itself is a winner. The coconut base with brown palm sugar, not too sweet not even tasteless. And the cendol, it has different taste and texture which cannot be found in other kedai cendol. I've been to many places, and tasted so many kinds of cendol, and this is incomparable! I will recognized the taste anywhere, anytime. Besides the green worm-like cendol, they put in a pink tapioca pearl and red bean. Which are teh best combination ever. The pink tapioca pearl is like a trade-mark of their cendol.

i'm eating, i'm not gonna look!

the mee rojak that is taste as good as the cendol. and delicious combination, to go.

tasted so GOOD he won't even look.

And now after more than 30 years, they're doing better and better. Instead of the classical wooden bench, with small stall, they now have a small simple shop at the end of the building near to their old place. And instead of cendol alone, they had a small rojak stall next to it as an option or combination to the cendol. Well, if you're just like me, I would definitely eat the rojak along with the cendol as the drink.

Where to find it?

If you're from the KLIA direction, you will find a signboard to BANTING. Just go straight following the sign, and after you crossed the bridge crossing the big river, you will reach the town. Drive straight ahead until you see a traffic light, and make a u turn after the traffic light, NOT at the traffic light. After that, drive straight ahead slowly, keeping your eyes on the left, for a small warung at the end of a building with the blue signboard with yellow font, written *RESTORAN CENDOL IBRAHIM BANTING*.By the time you reach this warung, you will see a KFC restaurant on your right hand side, just opposite the building of the warung. As soon as you see the shop sign, make a right turn and park anywhere near the shop.

The shop starts operates at noon until late evening (as long as there's cendol to sell). But I suggest that if you're going on weekends, make it around 3 to 4 o'clock the lastest, or you're gonna missed it.

people waiting for their cendol, eat in, or take away.

look for this after u-turn. it should be on your left.

more people are coming in.

So why wait, whoever staying in Putrajaya, Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi, or anywhere, it's just a few minutes drive (okay, I lied. It's more than a few minutes) Come on over and get the taste that you'll never forget.

Finally...

2010-12-16T08:10:00.000+04:00

I've been home in a Malaysia for quite sometimes. First of all I would to apologize to all my friends, for not into updating my blog. I've been super duper busy and super duper lazy to get and turn on my laptop. I even want to apologize for not visiting you guys.

Anyway, it's been 3 weeks since I start my job. Where? Yeah, they send me to Economic Planning Unit in Prime Minister's Department, in Social Services Section. But before that I was 'pending' for 2 weeks in their library, which I filled my time with reading. (duhhh...!)

Now my 4th day in the new place where I am assigned. New place, new boss.I thanked Allah, for all of this. It's been quite and easy start for people like me that haven't been working for almost 5 years.

Frankly I'm gonna missed my time in the past 4 years. I am missing my Dubai friends, (you know who you are..)

My routine has changed. No more lazy morning coffee, and then the house chores. I have to wake up very early every morning, leave the house at 6.45 a.m. Drop Falisha at the nursery and drive for 30 minutes to Putrajaya.

Yes, Falisha. She stayed at the nursery which was the most 'horrifying' time for me and her. As some of you know, she never been away from me for quite a long a time at the time. She done well, the first day, but not the next day and so on. She figured out that, every morning I will drive to the nursery to drop her. She will start crying as I start carrying her to the car. The thing is, the nanny said she wasn't crying after I left. But she loved to follow the nannies around. And when I came in the evening to pick her up, she would suddenly cry as soon as she sensed that I've arrived to pick her up.

Then there goes the cooking routine. I cook and throw whatever I can grab. I got home at 6, and of course Falisha would like her dose of feeding which I have to give to her or I will suffer a swollen breast and she starts crying and screaming. No more heavenly meals like it used to be. Just simple 30 minutes meal.

I really regret not updating this and blog hopping regularly. Really am. But, I will after this.

Missed you guys a lot!

Pengat Pisang + TEPUNG, camne ye?

2010-08-17T12:14:00.001+04:00

For a while, a forgot this 'inherited' recipe from my mom. It's traditional and easy to make. But the usual stuff that I came across was, only the banana. Say, what!!!?? No, tepung? Yeah not many people came across this. And frankly, I loved the pengat pisang with tepung. Muchos!!

Anyway, I'd like to share it ya all. Do try it!

PENGAT PISANG WITH TEPUNG
(1)3 cups of ripe (can be fried) banana. Chop nicely and round about 1/2 inches or less (just like in the picture). example: pisang tanduk, batu, raja atau nangka
2/3 cup of sugar (or more, if you want it sweeter)
5 to 6 cup of water (enough to boiled the banana)
screw pine leaves
*****
(2)2 1/2 cup of really thick coconut milk
2/3 cup of brown sugar (or as much as you need it)
*****
(3)1 cup of wheat flour
a pinch of salt (just to taste)
2/3 cup of water
4 cups of water (for boiling)
*****
(4) optional1/2 cup of sago seed, soak for 10 minutes and drain
3 cups of water
HOW:
1. Boiled items (4) until it turned clear (means it is cooked), drain the water and wash it with cold water, and drain again.
2. Items (3), mixed in the flour, salt. Mixed in the water a bit by bit. Until the mixture is smoothly thicken. But not to light. Boiled the water, and using a teaspoon, spoon in the mixture into the boiling water. The mixture will shaped into small bite-sized tepung. Continue it until the mixture is finish. Drain the tepung.
3. Mixed items (1) and boiled it until it almost soften or cooked.
4. When it is done, mixed in Items (2).
5. Stir in, and taste. Make sure the heat is medium, and stir in the coconut mixture all the time, don't let it over-boiled.
6. When it's almost cooked, mix in the ready and done items (3) and (4).
7. Turn off the heat when it is done.

Mango Salad Dressing

2010-08-17T10:24:00.000+04:00

How many of you knew that salad dressing doesn't have to be the 'Italian Dressing' or 'Thousand Island'? To all the mat salleh out there, they may knew about this. I've been doing this for a while since we moved to Dubai, turning other stuff into dressing, as I get bored easily with the regular dressing that's available ready-made in the store. So I tried to be creative and search for some recipes and adjust it to my taste for my salad dressing. Here is one of the recipes that I usually did for my dressings. It is simple and anybody can make it.

MANGO SALAD DRESSING

*2 cups of ripe (or almost ripe) mango

*2 tbsp of honey

*1/3 cup of rice vinegar (or a honey apple cider would do)

*2 tbsp of olive oil or any salad oil

*1/2 cup of fresh basils (you can loose the it if you don't have it or don't like it)

1/3 cup of grilled and sliced chicken breast (I used turkey breast)

2 cups of mixed or green salads

HOW :

1. blended or processed the * items in the food processor or blender (without water) until it smooth.

2. wash the salad, arrange it on the plate or in the bowl.

3. Spoon the dressing on top of the salad as much as you need it (but not too much).

4. Arrange the chicken on top of everything.

5. Now it's ready to be serve.

It's easy isn't it? The ingredients are the usual, natural things you can get easily. Try it!

Lucky Draw by RASP

2010-07-14T04:16:00.000+04:00

I rarely enter a contest or lucky draw. But I'm gonna try my luck. I got this lucky draw link from Lina, which gotten it from RASP. I wonder what RASP will put inside the lucky draw gift box. Anyway, this is my first visit to her blog. (thanks to LINA for the link) And I like hers so much!!

Anybody interested? Click the link above and join the lucky draw. Who knows u might get lucky!

It ends by midnight of 28th July 2010. So, hurry up! What ya waiting for?

Trying My Hands on Wedding

2010-07-13T05:42:00.003+04:00

*warning to you guys who are about to read this. I am not a pro (yet) in photography, frankly I am a bit shy to 'exhibit' my handiwork as a beginner. Especially to our pro friend Catlina. So, please, feel free to comment, I'll except anything just improve myself. Hihihi.. but enjoy.

It's been 4 years since we left Malaysia to stay in Dubai. And in that 4 years, we missed so many weddings of our family. I Loved weddings! And I loved photography!

Being able to attend the wedding of my cousin this year, has been a great joy to me. Why? I get to see my relatives, and I get to shoot and test my skill on everything I learned the past few months, on portrait photography.

This wedding took place at Dewan Precint 8, in Putrajaya. It's the reception on the groom side (my cousin). We used to stay in Putrajaya before we moved and left Malaysia to stay in Dubai. It's an advantage to my dad, (the one who is driving) as he is not used to the the many roads and precint in Putrajaya that's confusing, a lot!

bapak upon arriving

ibu, met some of her uncles and cousins from banting

We arrived at exactly 11.45am and already people walked out of the hall. 'Eh, lambat ke kite?' my mom start to worry. I said, 'Bersanding pun 1.30 tghhr, ibu. Macam mana pulak lambat? Orang datang awal ni..' Well of course she's worried. Kenduri kawin anak abang ibu. We met a few of our relatives from Banting. They arrived early and started leaving as they have more kenduri to attend.

When we arrived, me and my kids were the center of attention. Why? Well, the last time we met was last year during Falisha's cuku jambul, and now we're here again, once a year. After all the tanya kabar, salam-salam dan ape yang patut, we took a seat and start borak-borak. While my mom and my dad start queuing to get the food, I went to the small room opposite the entrance, to get a sneak peek at the 'flower girls' and the 'flower boys' getting ready.

And of course, once I stepped in, my aunts and cousin were screaming. Overjoyed after one long year we haven't met. And it's time to 'shoot'!

Aina, my little cousin

Kak ayu @ akak, my older cousin

a row of cousins

I am not a pro (yet) but put all my effort and basic knowledge of shooting using SLR in different situation and different places. The different ambiance gave me a challenge on my skill and knowledge, in portrait and wedding photography. It tested my art of seeing skill. Which I loved it, MUCHOS!

shoot my baby!

happy girls!

little models

Another challenge was, my kids. I have to ask my sister, Hajar to look after my babies, and not to forget, Falisha's 'appa' too. During the event, I missed a few important shots of my parents, 'menepung tawar', just because Falisha already cranky and asked for feeding.

can't take my eyes off of you..

framing Farhan

Hareez, more of my little cousins

Izzah

Farah @ Yaya, the mix beauty of Pakistani and Malay

I wonder what's over there..?

The blurred handsome boy

The newly weds, Fazli and Syafa with their niece, Maisarah

Capturing Maisarah

I don't know what you guys think, but through my eyes, I am proud of what I achieved that day. When I am able to test my art of seeing skill, and able to shoot a few sides and about that are up to the exact shots like I wanted to get.

Me? I don't really like to shoot a plain all standing in a row kind of picture. I love it when people are not looking at me, and didn't even notice I'm photographing them, to me that's what tells the story or how story created in just one single shot.

a forced smile

Yaya..

Family photo as a memory. (this is just a half of it..)

This is how I see it, I am still in learning process. Which I enjoyed so much, and hope that I'll improve myself in the future.

Bapak and Durian

2010-07-08T12:19:00.000+04:00

Among of all things that came up on my mind when we're preparing for our journey to Malaysia, was my Bapak's orchard or dusun bapak. Hmm.. it made my mouth watered everytime I thought about it. Besides rambutan, mangosteen, and dokong, I thought mostly about the freshly picked durian from the orchard. I am lucky this time, we came exactly during the musim durian. While most orchard already had the season earlier than it should, bapak's orchard just started.

On the day of the first durian fell, bapak had the feeling and he left early morning with his senapang (nak tembak tupai yang menyerang durian). When he came home, I can smell the fresh durian all the way from the living hall. Me? I am a freak! I loved durian as much as I loved Mr.Fadzil, hahahah! The best thing is, I know the durian is good, because a few years ago when bapak first started planting the durian, he saved the seed from the good and tasty durian that we ate, and plant it in the black bags before it's big enough to be transfered into the orchard.

So, as soon as my nose detected the smell that fragrant the whole house, I rushed to the backyard and surprisingly screaming (happily) because we get to eat the first durian of the season! Me, standing next to my bapak waiting anxiously (and excited) for bapak to cut open the durian. And of course, camera and shoot!

Bapak cium-cium durian

Once it's cut opened, there it goes! The yellow, creamy and fragrant fruit inside is revealed! My kids? They don't even like durian. (rugi betul). Maybe, growing up in another country they were not exposed to durian as it should be. This time, Tini had a bite and declared that she likes durian! Wow, that is improvement! But Falisha, after a bite. She made a sour face and ran away.

there, tangan bapak membukak durian

Durian!!

lagi durian

see how big and chunky?

Ibu came out as he heard our happy voices and of course the smell. Bapak cut open another durian and we had more than we should. Aduh, panas la pasni! Bapak smiled and said, to avoid the heat, he told us,

"Minum air dari kulit durian tu.. tuang air lepas tu minum."

Aahh.. What an afternoon. Had a yummy, creamy durian, a full tummy (luckily drank from the kulit durian), and no heat after eating eat. I can't wait for more durian to gugur and more fruits to ripe from dusun bapak.

Me and My Grandparents : About Bubbly Falisha

2010-07-07T07:00:00.000+04:00

Going home to Malaysia, is a one experience I truly looking forward this year. So are my parents and my kids. But not Mr.Fadzil (as he is the only one being left behind). Why?

Because Falisha is one year old and I can't wait for her to meet my parents and sisters!

Exactly one year ago when we went home, she was only 3 months and can barely do anything. Now that she turned one, there's a lot of progress we want them to see besides those we shared with my parents and my sisters only through FACEBOOK and BLOG.

Falisha and atok at JeramToi.

But I can't help to wonder, what if she doesn't want to go to any of them? What if she kept clinging to me instead of playing with her grandparents and aunts? After the horrific experience on the plane (read here), and we finally met at the arrival hall in KLIA, the question was answered.

What do you guys think?

on the ferry in Langkawi

rainy day with atok

Yes, surprisingly she wants to go with my mom! I was hoping so, because the last time they met was like 7 months ago, when my parents came to visit me in Dubai. Thanks Allah! She still remember them! *smile*

It doesn't take a long time for her to adapt to her Mak Lang too. Being friendly with all the people she recognized as friends and family was totally a contrast to her attitude when she was a baby. Clingy and only goes with me or Mr.Fadzil.

recently in Malacca for a wedding.

Last year when we went home, she spent a lot of time with my dad. May dad loved to carry her around the house whenever she cries. I guess she still remembered that, because she grew very attached to my dad until now.

To be frank, my kids spends a lot of time with my family instead of Mr.Fadzil's. Well what do you expect? I am attached to my parents and sisters! And of course, I am staying with them, while I am here. But alhamdulillah, when I went to visit my in-laws couple of weeks ago, she immediately recognized them as family and there she went, bonding and playing with them.

The most things that I noticed, she spend a lot of time with my dad. She will scream her excitement whenever she saw him, (it happened too, to my mom. But mostly my dad) like, 'Aaarrgghhhhhh.....!!!' I guess you guys can imagine how.

Jalan dengan nenek plak..

One funny thing about Falisha is, she can walk but can barely talk. Instead of calling her grandparents atok and nenek, she called them 'mama' and 'appa'. (it stands for grandma and grandpa). I think she first heard it from her sister. Whatever la Falisha..

with my brother in law, he's on a break when we visited

It breaks my heart whenever I think about leaving with my kids after the vacation is over. But who knows, maybe this year the last year we will be leaving them for Dubai, and my parents get to visit us every week like they used too?

Birthdays and Graduations : Celebrated at Laksa Shacks

2010-06-29T07:00:00.026+04:00

It was a great day. Me and my 3 sisters (short of 1 sis) went to Seremban (the nearest city) to got bapak's GPS from the repair and service. It's just a reason really, besides the fact I am meeting Lina, and the meeting was cancelled because I left the thing that I was about to give her.

But that doesn't stop us from having so much fun altogether the 4 of us. It's Alang's @ Farhana's birthday and I took the opportunity to celebrate just us, sisters. It's not only her birthday, but to celebrate her graduation (from her Degree) and her success application for Master program, which will start in a few weeks. Not to forget my 2nd sister Angah @ Hajar who also just graduate from her KPLI programme and will start as a full time school counselor (school shrink) anytime in July or August.

We missed one of our sister Khalilah. The youngest of all of us. She is now in Tangkak, in her 2nd year matriculation. We called her Adik, suits her as the youngest.

There's a new Carrefour opened in Rahang, Seremban. Surprisingly it's a gigantic place. As it's recently opened, there are not many shops is open yet. But still, the remaining shop are enough with interesting selling items.

There is this one small restaurant we noticed which seems interesting. As our tummy are grumbling with hunger, our eyes are all onto this small restaurant or shop (I'm not sure how categorized it). It is call, Laksa Shack. Yes, we chose that instead of a lousy Kopitiam and another KFC which I cannot tolerate at all!

The Laksa Shack

simple minimalist menu

The smell of food can be noticed as soon as we enter the shop. It's cozy with a few tables but it's a nice place and comfortable.

So what is this place?

They have a list of famous Laksa That cost around RM10 to RM15. They have, Laksa Tom Yum, Laksa Sarawak, Laksa Kelantan, Laksa Kari Nyonya, Laksa Penang, Laksa Johor, and Laksa Lemak Singapore.

Besides all the food, they provide variety of choices from starters, light meal, sets for two and rice. The other food I can remember from the list is, Otak-otak, Roti Jala, beriyani and nasi ayam halia.

We ordered our choices of food and drinks and wait. and of course photo session while waiting.

my 2nd baby sister, Angah@ Siti Hajar

Alang @ Farhana, 3rd sister

Acik @ Husna, the 4th

my personal favourite

say, 'aaaah...'

peace, no war!

The food arrives, and we start to dig in. Alang and her Tom Yum Laksa, Angah and her Nasi Kuning, Acik and her Nyonya Laksa, and me with my Laksa Lemak Singapore. I just found out there are many type of Laksa. I only knew a few type of it. The laksa, has a different gravy (of course), even the noodles are different for each type of Laksa.

angah had Nasi Kuning

Laksa kari Nyonya

Laksa Lemak singapore

Otak-otak

Bandung Cincau

We even ordered a yummy cold Bandung Cincau. It was delicious! Not to forget the well-missed Otak-otak.

We end the meal and went to the next place to get the cake. It's Secret Recipe! How I missed it, so much! As there are no Carrot Sliced, I got a White Chocolate Macadamia, which tasted good, too!

As if it's not enough, we then celebrate again with our parents and The Cake at home!

*To my sisters, I am so proud of you guys! No matter what people said about us being all girls, we did it! And we proved to them, having all girls is not as bad as they thought it would be, it even better!

mi hermanas

Splish, Splash I'm taking a bath!

2010-06-26T08:11:00.000+04:00

Going to the jeram is the long-planned activity with my sisters since I was in Dubai. So Today is THE DAY. We packed up our gear, towels and not to forget a good ol' sardine sandwich for the picnic. After Zohor, we left with my dad but except my mom who is working. (kesian ibu)

just arrived at the entrance

Jeram Toi (click here for more) is one of the fun-favorite waterfall picnic place in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan. I haven't beend there since I left for Dubai. That's quite a long time. I didn't missed it until after we left Malaysia. At that moment you suddenly remembered all the good old times you spent there during the younger years.

It took 20 minutes drives, about 20km from my parents' place in Kg.Seperi. The point of not going during weekends or school holidays, but weekdays like this day is, not to bump into so many people that will cause the place to be really packed with humans. If it turned out to be like that, ooohhh... you won't get to enjoy or have a good time.

I text Mr.Fadzil about our whereabout that day (saje nak bakar kann!) and he screamed! Unlike the previous years we came home, this time it's special! *smiling*

a new look at the old place

a walk in the woods

My bapak drove us there and when we got there, I am so surprised with the improvement they made to the place. There's a new bathroom and toilet at the entrance. a much cleaner and proper walking path to the bathing area, there's a small cafe set up, and even fresh looking and cozy chalet available for rent. And that's the only surprised I had at the entrance.

We have to walked about 50 meters into the jeram area where we can swim and play in the water. Fatini and Falisha are the most excited. They slept almost all the way there, and once we reached the place their eyes are opened, bright as the sunny day.

atok tolong bukak kasut adik, adik tak sabar dah..

luckily we got a port

After 5 minutes of jungle walking, we are there! Oh, my! I am surprised again! The place looks different with some additional facilities and landscape improvement. Wow! They even had slides installed at that place. My babies gonna love it!

It's all different now, there's a slide which Fatini enjoy so much!

a new pegola that looks better and works better than before

where the water came from and filled up the big pool

how i wish i could go and swim there

mak lang and adik

As we expect that there might be no one in the place during weekdays like this, there a group of teenagers already there splashing and conquering the big pool, which is quite frustrating to me. (because I didn't get to swim) *sad* But anyway, we just realized that we left the mat at home and luckily there's a small stone table and stool for us to port.

Without further delay, Fatini and my sister Husna, took off their flip flop and happily jump into the shallow water (about my waist). Fatini saw the slide and ask if she can try it. But being a 'penakut' as she is, she ask if she can ride it with Mak Lang my 3rd baby sister, Farhana. The slide is not really big or high, but it still awesome! They had water running from the pipe connected to the natural water flow at the jeram. The upper level is a man made pool with a key to control the level of the rapid water that fill in the pool. That's the pool I want to swim in. Maybe next time I'll try it.

and there she goes!

Mak Lang and Adik are ready for the adventure!

freezing falisha

everybody look up!

There they go, screaming and got the attention of the other groups. Yes, I forgot to mention. There's another group of 30 old Chinese people, which I assumed like a Buddhist society visiting the place (because there's 3 monks with them). They seem like a nice people. They sang a song and clapping their hands (which I don't really know) altogether in a group which cause Fatini to ask so many questions about it.

the chinese group. they are very nice.

the typical Malay teenagers. The other group that conquered the pool.

I got water in my mouth!

butt massage!

Eventhough we didn't get to splash in the big pool we had really good time. The icy cold water doesn't stop my babies from having fun, especially Falisha. My dad, was smiling all the time looking at his grandkids screaming and laughing with their aunts. Me? Hmm.. all around in the area, with my camera, in and out of the water. But still get wet all over as the result of splashing with them.

Awwhhh... Suddenly my thoughts were filled with Mr.Fadzil. How fun it is, if we get to spend this good time together. How opposite it is the time we're spending at this time. Him, at the office, working. And us, playing and having fun at the jeram. It's ok, I said. We'll do this when he get back.(in August)

bye, bye.

the jeram, I'll be back!

We left around 4.30pm. All wet, cold and happy! I think I'll come again next time with Mr.Fadzil, soon.

More pictures, here!

Ini Kasut Saya : Saya Kena Tag

2010-06-22T20:40:00.000+04:00

Seriously, I forgot the last time I really have my favourite shoes. Having kids made me browsing for flats or maybe some wedges for comfy and balance (at the same time nak nampak cantik jugakkan? ngeee....)

But to think, I do have favourite shoes, which I wore on special occasion, a lot! I loved the shoes so much that I didn't even bother to find any new shoes to match my dress for dinners or any formal occasion.

Okay, to answer this question..

I couldn't find any pictures me wearing the shoes (a clear one)

mostly left in Mr.Fadzil's pc at home, in Dubai.

I was 6 months pregnant at this time, and my, my I can still wear 3 inches heels.

brand : Lewre

color : Golden & Black

price : tak hengat la!

tahun beli : it's like 3 years ago I guess?

kenapa beli : for special masquerade theme annual dinner, got no high heels at all, to match my dress. So went out and about to find the perfect shoes! *wink*

Since I took a long cuti tanpa gaji, I barely shop for shoes like i used to. (almaklum la dah tak keje kan..?) So to get a LEWRE shoes like that, a very pretty, 3 inches shoes like that, made me really happy! And yes, I am kinda lady-like since I got into the Secretarial Diploma Course. So don't blame me if changed a lot, from Adidas shoes to Vinci, Lewre or La Primavera.

who to tag? hihihi... nak tag :

1. Nadiah
2. Yana
3. Roziah
4. adzlin

Korang jawab tau, nak baca! :)

Pasar Tani Encounter

2010-06-20T21:13:00.000+04:00

Confession by the 1st walker.

It's Sunday morning and I think I just heard 'azan'. I know Ummi woke up early for prayer. I cried to get her attention. And she came running to me with her telekong. It's my morning routine, feed before anything else. *evil grin* I heard Ummi talked to Mak Lang (her sister) about going to Pasar Tani. What is Pasar Tani? I wonder. I must go and see this Pasar Tani.

Ummi pick me up as I woke up. She washed my face and brush my teeth, change my diapers and she said, 'Adik mandi lepas balik dari pasar lah ye? Nanti peluh-peluh balik.' I am so happy, Ummi is taking me to the Pasar Tani.

Mak Lang is ready, waiting in the car. She is our driver, she droves us around as Ummi can't get used on the right lane driving YET. I saw a bright red basket that always sits under Nenek's cabinet. Ummi took the basket and carry it with her. Oooouuhhh... I loved to get my hands on it. I wonder how it looks like if I carry it?

so, how do I look?

It took about less than 15 minutes to reach the small town that we've been passing through this couple of days. Yeah I think it's Kuala Klawang. When we arrived, Ummi put me in her ZOLO WEAR ring sling. I love to be carried around in it (if I'm tired), but this place seems interesting. I loved to walk by myself. But there were so many unfamiliar faces around. This don't look like Dubai. I better stick with Ummi first.

ooh, this is how the Pasar Tani look like..

look at that makcik

So, this the Pasar Tani.. A place with lot of people selling fresh poultry, fishes, vegetable and food! Mak Lang and Ummi walk until they reach the poultry and fishery area. It's all wet and smells, fishy! I remember this smell. Everytime we go to Shindaga Market in Dubai, it always smells sort of like this. But this place smells better. Way.. better! Ummi seems didn't mind of it.. I wonder how she stands it?

sotong kembang, Ummi loved this.

It makes good sambal!

I heard Ummi talked about sotong kembang, and making sambal nasi lemak. Ouuhh... I loved nasi lemak! She talks about she missed some of the veges and food that can't be found in Dubai. And how expensive they are if it's available. Ummi took out her camera. Big heavy camera with a long tube thingy in front of it. Everybody staring at her. They must be wondering why Ummi took pictures of people and things in the market. I loved when Ummi point the camera at me, everytime!

the fresh, good looking fish

Ummi said, 'susah nak dapat taugeh ni kat sana..'

Mak Lang said, 'Nasik lemak pakcik ni sedap.'

We finished with the fishes and vegetable. And we walk to another area that sells food. All sorts of fried food, noodles, and rice. Yum! I saw colourful water in a big container. It's.. pretty! Suddenly while Mak Lang was buying the nasi lemak (my favourite for breakfast), I saw the prettiest thing in the world. I scream so that Ummi will look at it. I want to go there. I want to look at it.. it's pretty..

the pretty, pretty colourful balloon

I struggled to free myself from the sling. But I didn't make it. I cried, and it works! Ummi let me down and as fast as I could I ran towards the thing.. I don't know what it is. But it's pretty... 'Falisha!' I heard Ummi calling. She looked so worried. I didn't think of anything but to get there. Ummi is worried that I might get lost or worst snatch by anyone there.

'You want the balloon?' Ummi asked. I said, 'Pretty...' (of course she don't understand me). Ummi picked me up and wanted to leave. But I cried. I want to stay there and looked at the balloon. It's, pretty.. *smiling happily*

I finally got it!

what is this yellow thing? can i eat it?

So, to get me out of there, Ummi had to give in. She bought me the balloon. And not to forget, one for Kakak (well kakak is not here, she went to Kelantan to get Mak Ngah with Nenek and Atok).

So there we are, waiting for Mak Lang to get the car as Ummi is tired and there are lots of things. And we can't carry it all at once.

why is that white thingy looks familiar?

I've seen it somewhere..

But the point is, it was the happiest moment that day. I found out what is Pasar Tani, I get to walk at Pasar Tani, I get to see people and I got this PRETTY blue balloon (that's what Ummi called it), and it's more than enough for me.

Cold Cendol on Rainy Day

2010-06-19T18:36:00.000+04:00

This is kind of pending entry that supposed goes on air like 4 days ago? Huh! Curse the technician that didn't come on time to fix it. But who cares!? I'm writing it anyway.. *rolling eyes*

It was cold and and cloudy. We just arrived from the airport that morning, and the kids slept through the afternoon. That's good... actually. My mom arrived from college at exactly 5.10pm (10 minutes after office hour ends, and that's kind of early than her usual timing). 'Okay, dah siap ke?' she asked. We smiled and my kids raced to the car.

Falisha and my sis Siti Farhana @ Mak Lang

It's the usual kedai cendol not as good as Leman Dawi's Cendol in Seremban or Cendol Mamak back in Banting, our kampung. But the good ol' homemade cendol and the signature of the simple shop. And maybe a good place to lepak-lepak and have a good time.

Tini the 'Cetung'

There's a few type of cendol available. Cendol with pulut (glutinous rice), corn, red bean or everything in together. They have ABC (air batu campur) too!

My yummy cendol!

Ibu's ABC

Oooo...! I can't make up my mind! Everything sound so yummy! But I settled with the red bean cendol. Tini with the corn and my mom settled with ABC. We exchanged flavors and it was the sweetest moment that I could never imagine before. Everybody is happy.

*sigh*

I waited exactly one year to be here. To be a part of this moment. How happy I was at that time. And suddenly the chilling wind was accompanied by a raindrops, that transformed into a crash of heavy rain. Another thing that I missed so much! Rain!!! Rain!! I won't sing rain, rain go away at this moment. even my kids are enjoying the rain. And Tini asked if she could go and play in the rain. I smiled and said no to her, explaining it's bad for her to play in the rain and she said, 'okay.'

Falisha also enjoys the cendol

It started to rain

The rain ends our day at the kedai cendol. It was a great day. Simple, but a great day to start the next days for the whole 2 months I'm staying.

Kopiah Atok on her head.

When Travelling With Them.. ALONE!

2010-06-17T17:48:00.000+04:00

Yes, I hope you could imagine it. A few days ago, I went through it and survived!

Since Mr.Fadzil decided not to come with us in this journey, I've been thinking and wondering how am I supposed to handle my kids alone. With Tini, a 5 year old, it's not a problem. A leash should settle everything. And an eye on her all the time.

while Mr.Fadzil is checking in for us

But with my delar, dear Falisha, which is her 2nd journey on a plane and 1st time for me, with her being able to walk..NOW.. it's like a nightmare that won't END! I bought a special body leash for her. Instead of hand, like Tini had. It's safer for me and her.

the body leash for Falisha

Mr. Fadzil went in and helped us with the luggage, 2 bags and 1 IKEA moving box. Which are filled with goodies and souvenirs. After he left, then there we go, our journey by ourselves. Rasa sebak pun ade tau! Nak tinggal kan suami tercinta sendiri for 2 months! Kesian die..

Me, being alone with the kids when we go out is not a problem. But traveling alone, I don't know! I felt like crying. Eventhough Falisha is in her pushchair, and Tini is on her leash, means I have nothing to worry about for now, I still worried.

And then, there we go. Waiting at the boarding gate. Falisha fell asleep that means, it's gonna be pretty hard to fold the stroller while carrying her at the same time.

at the boarding gate

As I expected, it is. And the person incharge won't even help me. And I did asked him to help me fold the stroller. He just ignored me and asked me to do it myself. (and he saw me carrying the sleeping Falisha and a big heavy tote bag on my shoulder). Heartless man! As the result, Falisha woke up and started crying and screaming once we got in our seat. We got a window seat. That's cool! But the not-so-cool thing was when Falisha was crying non stop for almost 20 minutes and everybody started staring. Ya, Allah! Bantulah hamba Mu ini! I prayed.

Thanks Allah! She stopped and slept. But the other bad news is, the MAS MH157 supposed to fly-off at 18:35pm, but it was 2 hours delayed! And the air in the flight is HOT! Is the AC busted? Oh, no! This is a 7 hours flight and I am supposed to go through this? Falisha started sweating but she still sound asleep, on my lap. As they are giving the bassinet after the plane took off. Okay, I can deal with that.

Instead of the announcement about the delay, Tini kept saying, 'There's something wrong with the plane Ummi. I know it is.. Why aren't we flying yet?'

I explained to her what happened and that we're flying in a few minutes. I felt so tired and sleepy, and accidently felt asleep. Suddenly, I heard voices and I opened my eyes. I thought we already left. But surprisingly not yet! I took a short nap around 20 minutes and it has been 1 hour in the plane. It still delayed.

Falisha having a good time

Tini with her Alice in The Wonderland

I am restless. Suddenly an announcement of the technical problems being solved made me smiled. Falisha woke up. And she's not crying. Alhamdulillah! At exactly 20:30pm, we took off. Huh, I finally can breath.

The stewardess installed the bassinet for Falisha and I put her in the bassinet where she continued sleeping. They start serving the meal, and the best part was, the AC started to cool the air. And it was so refreshing!

After the meal, the kids watch Alice in Wonderland and finally Falisha slept after a good meal of pasta. And so am I. I am so tired of all the hectic and surprisingly slept until the time they served the snack. Means we're about to land. And I am thankful that Falisha slept through entire flight.

We landed about 7:15am, Malaysian hour. 15 minutes earlier than they expected. Alhamdulillah, that's all I can say when we landed and entering the arrival hall. I called my mom to inform her of our arrival.

To make it more challenging. Fatini asked me if she could go potty (pee/poo in the toilet). 'Okay, let's go!' The simple task turned out to be disaster when Fatini, screaming in the toilet asking for my help, because she can't turn off the tap. But the problem is, she locked the door! I told millions of time not to lock the door because it's dangerous. If anything happened, I can't help her if the door is locked. After a while she opened the door, the tap still bursting and she put her legging on the floor, all wet and panicked. I helped her, turned off the tap, and membebel about her doings. Luckily I always got a spare clothes for both of them. I gave her another legging (different colour) and we left the toilet.

My mom called me and asked how long until I'll be out. I said, 'Baru nak cop passpot, ibu. Ade hal kat toilet dengan Tini.'

We got through the passport control, faster than I expect. Next, the luggage. I found the belt section. Now to wait the bag. In my previous experience, it's going to take forever. I left Falisha in her push chair with Tini's leashed to it. Without taking my eyes, I took a trolley and went back to them. Looking for our bags is so depressing! There's no sign of it! Huh! I did saw a guy removing and grouping the bags. I saw a familiar red bag, with a silver rimmed wheels. Is that mine? It's in the group! I went there, and it is! It is my bag! I took it, put it on the trolley, went there again, and found the 2nd bag, and finally the goodies box. A luggage handler saw me and asked me to get my trolley. He helped me with my luggage arrangement on the trolley. 'Terima kasih pakcik!' So nice of him.

Now imagine..

Me carrying Falisha on my right, on my left, pulling Tini with her leash, and trying to push the heavy trolley to the arrival hall. Ahhh..! But the best sight that made me smiled and relieved was the sight of my sister Farhana and my ibu, waiving and smiling.

I think this is the most tiring and fun travel adventure I ever had! What do you think of my adventure?

As I am Writing This..

2010-06-13T14:16:00.000+04:00

As I am writing this, there's a few minutes left before we leave home. I felt like needles and pins in my tummy. maybe from the feeling that I had when thinking about leaving my dear husband for almost 2 months. Of course he'll come to us in Malaysia, but in August.

At the same time, I can't wait to see the face of the loved ones waiting for us in the airport. The warmth hugs from my parents and sisters. The smell of my parents home. The good smell of home sweet home.

This is my last post before departing from Dubai at 6.35pm, local time. We'll be flying in MAS and arrived (safely I hope) at 6.00 am Malaysia time.

Pray for our safe journey and we'll meet again as soon as I arrived and safely settled.

Grilling It at Stonegrill

2010-06-12T16:44:00.000+04:00

Have you ever been through a situation when you're ordering a steak, you didn't get the right, desired taste of your steak? When you asked for medium rare, but it's not according to your 'medium rare'? Yes, I've been through that, alright! And suddenly, you wished that you can cook you're own steak without the hassle of preparing everything. Just cook and eat!

In Stonegrill, yes! You can cook it yourself! Last night Mr.Fadzil took me to the STONEGRILL in Sheikh Zayed Road. Located exactly at the Gold and Diamond Park, the same row where you can see all the car showroom, you can park easily just behind the building at the designated area. It's my first time there, and second time for him. He likes it so much he intended to come again.

located exactly at the Gold and Diamond Park

what you see once you entered

I like this look and feeling

It's a cozy restaurant with a classic and dimmed lighted. With framed pictures of all Hollywood actors hanged around the wall, I felt like I am at a local restaurant somewhere in Montana. Before that Mr.Fadzil been talking about that restaurant like everyday since his friend took him there. He told me that he never noticed that restaurant before, eventhough we've passed by that restaurant everytime we're on Sheikh Zayed Road. I said, "I've noticed it, dear." he smiled. But I never really knew what's really happening in there.

There are two types of food here, ala-carte or stone-grilled. Which means, you get to cook you're own steak. Or if you rather get a ready cooked steak you can just go for the ala-carte. What's the point of coming here if I'm having the readu steak? So, as a 'lamb fans', I ordered a set of 200gm lamb chop. With mashed potato and mint sauce.

what we had while waiting the 'batu panas' to come.

our bip or apron (sort of)

While waiting for the our 'batu' to come, they prepare a large bip for each of us. Frankly I am excited to experience the cooking that have made Mr.Fadzil talking about it for weeks!

demonstration by the waitress

my turn!

After 15 minutes, here they come! A piping hot stonegrill on a long oval plate. With all the sides and sauce ready. The waitress quickly demonstrate the cooking method, and how we can decide how we'd like it. Well, this is gonna be fun!

almost done!

my medium rare is ready!

There we go, the cooking-on-the-table session. The 'zing' sound really makes my tummy grumble. But the 'cons' is, you will have all the fat 'splattered' all over the table. Tini has been complaining about the fat 'terpercik' on her hand and said that she smelled like a lamb now. Hahahaha...! Next time you have to sit a bit further from me, okay!? :)

tini had 'finger fish and fries'

how the grill stone look like. I was told by Mr.Fadzil,

it's granite.

The smiling Mr.Fadzil, asked me, "Best tak?" "Eh, of course! It's fun!" We had a great time grilling the steak to our perfection and eat it straight away!

sigh

mint sauce, perfect match for the lamb chops!

It's really and unforgettable experience. I enjoyed it, my tummy full! (luckily I came with a hungry tummy) I loved the juicy taste of hot lamb chop I grilled myself. Not everybody knew this, but when you eat lamb chops, the perfect match is the mint sauce. It helps you savor the juicy lamb taste and at the same time it helps reduce the smell.

the face of 'perut kenyang'!

wall full of framed pictures of Hollywood stars

my empty plate (tinggal tulang je)

Awwhhh... when you're full. Of course you're happy!

If you feel like experiencing it, why don't you go to STONEGRILL I promise you it taste better than any steakhouse here in Dubai, plus you get to grill it yourself!

Get To Know A Blogger Friend

2010-06-10T12:56:00.000+04:00

Ish..ish.. puan Syigim when I was about to answer your previous tag, you tagged me AGAIN! *wink* Never mind, I'll do the previous one first okay?? Let's see... what is the first question.. Wait, I need to tempek this badge first. (you guys have to do the same)

1. Where are you now?

Sadly still in Dubai (counting the days nak balik kampung)

2. What do you do?

Just like you Syigim, I am too trying to stay sane while attending to the demands of SAHM, I am into catering (small one) business while I am at home, used to be a Personal Assistant (PA) in the government office and now a personal assistant to my dear husband.

3. What is your blog name, and why?

Recently I changed the name into something more 'different' I supposed? It's The Juggling Queen, Why? I am a wife, a mom, a caterer, a cook, a 'teacher', a 'sitter', ( a long list which everybody knew, eh?) I have to juggle everything, so that I can keep up with the other things. So, I guess 'The Juggling Queen' suits it. Don't you think?

4. When did you start blogging?

Around 2008, I guess. But not seriously. I was influenced by a friend that blogs everyday. I said to myself, 'Why not me?'

5. Give the link when you were the happiest to blog?

For now, the happiest moment when I blog is during our family outing, about food (ooh.. I loved food!), my kids, my husband, my family, (banyak sangat lah!) But the latest is this, find out here!

6. Give the link when you were the saddest to blog?

Frankly, I can't really remember the saddest moment. I guess, maybe during my confinement. I have to do everything myself, nobody helping me except Mr.Fadzil. The time when you're supposed to share it with your other family besides your husband. But in the end, there's a good thing behind it too.

7. Give the link when you were the angriest to blog?

I am quite a high tempered person (if something is wrong). I usually kept it quiet. But if that thing happened, over and over and over again... memang nak marah! This is the link, read it here.

8. Give the link when you were most in love?

Hmmm... let me see.. are you sure? I am afraid people gonna throw up! yeah, yeah. Here is the link. (kalau cam meluat jangan baca tau!)

9. Give the link of a post that turns out to be very meaningful to you?

I don't have a specific posting that truly very meaning to me (for now). I guess when I am writing about Mr.Fadzil and my kids that the most meaningful to me. So, just check out the Family links or maybe Fatini or Falisha.

10. Tag some friends to know about their answer?

ngeh.. ngeh.. ngeh.. in that case, I LOVED to spread this to :

1. Seri Banun

2. Leyna (sugar and spices)

3. Wadah

5. Sarah Syazwani

6. Roziah

hehhe... guys get ready to open up the old, dusty archive 'chest' of yours and answer this tag okay?!!

***

same as Syigim, I' d like to 'punggah' the old things from my blog. But I am not a good 'writer' (yet) so the old boring post, seems to be my 'reason' to write better and better everyday. Syigim is like a 'writing guru' to me as I am not a good writer since I was younger. I loved imaginative writing but never had the talent to write it as good as others. Visit Syigim here to know more about what I meant. Thanks Syigim!

Concert and Graduation : Tale of Tini Tots!

2010-06-09T11:34:00.000+04:00

Tini : Ummi, Miss Alvita said, I have to bring a plain shirt and a black legging.

Me : Why do you need the legging?

Tini : There will be a concert, and I will dance like this, (moving her hands like an Egypt dancer while singing 'zing, zing, zang)

Me : Okay.

Since last month, she's been telling me that the teacher told all the students, to get a plain shirt or tops and leggings for girls. Because they are going to perform a dance and singing. Everyday, I will hear her sing that song and dance. Sometimes I overheard her practicing her speech, and she will smiled and stop practicing when ever she noticed I heard her. Hmm... 'pandai segan jugak ye..'

Finally, the day is here! I watched her practice, singing and dancing and telling her activities everyday. And today is the day. What day? Oh, yeah! I forgot. It's Tini's Graduation Day!

Today, marked the official day she graduates from Foundation Stage (FS) (macam Tadika kat Malaysia la... sebelum masuk darjah satu), so that after this she can join the Primary Level which starts at Grade 1. Here in Dubai, all expatriates children goes to International School. So is Tini. At the age of 4, they start at Foundation Stage 1 (FS1) and finishes at Foundation Stage 2 (FS2).

Before I get on the story. Some info for you guys out there. The international schools here, starts their Autumn Semester (kalau kat malaysia, start awal tahun..) in September after long hot Summer Break. Kids who wants to attend the school on certain grade have to be at the right age by the March of that year. For example: FS1 (Foundation Stage 1), the child must be 4 years old by March of 2010 if they want to start at September 2010. So, by the age 6, they already in Grade 1 (darjah 1). The syllabus in most school here are based on UK (United Kingdom) syllabus. Oh yeah, Tini's school is using the UK syllabus. Uhuh? Yes, her school name is Winchester School.

Now back to our story.

The ceremony was simple. They grouped the children according to their classes. Tini's class was scheduled at 10 - 11am. I took the liberty to order 50 pieces of colourful decorated cookies from Fida, but pity the kids, I found out that food are not allowed in school because they are afraid of any food allergy among the kids. Ok, their lost then. Hehhe.. *wink*.

the arrival with box of cookies made by Fida

parents taken their seats

the welcome sign

'come on la Tini, smile!'

'A wee bit more, Tini.'

'now why aren't you moving like everybody else?'

Me and Falisha ended up sitting on the floor as everybody start

standing up and blocking our view

They started by performing the concert. The dance, singing, which was very entertaining and all of them looked so cute! Now I see the fruit of her practice. The zing, zang dance. They sang a few familiar song which I learned myself long time ago when I was in the kindergarten. It brought good memories.. suddenly.

After the singing and dancing, they went back to their class to change into uniform for the certificate give-away ceremony. While waiting, we were entertained by the kids from the other class that already had their concert the day before.

'when can I join them?'

After 10 minutes Tini and her friend came back and went to the stage again. This time in a school uniform. And handmade graduation cap, and a simple satin black robe (bole la kan, graduation budak2). Looking so cute! They sang a graduation song and finally the certificate give-away. It's not like our graduation day, but it's the most important day of her life. I don't care what other people think. Mr.Fadzil took a half day off from work just to attend her 'historic day'.

Mikhail, class speaker.

'Mikhail is my partner.' said Tini.

Her class teacher, Miss Alvita.

Thank You, so much!

cookies by Fida. Love you Fida, thank you so much,

sebab willing amik order saya last minute!

As her parents, we're so proud with her achievement this year. She can read and count (mostly english, a wee bit Malay), she can recite the Arabic letters, can recite Al-fatihah and Doa Makan (boleh la kan, duduk oversea, belajar ngaji pun Ummi je ajar, xde kelas special). She has the effort to learn, and very curious. I started teaching her a basic Arabic as she has the interest to learn it. We hope she will do better this new semester no matter where she is. And also, I prayed that she will be a good girl, daughter and sister. Amin!

Falling in Love with Magnolia

2010-06-07T11:14:00.000+04:00

I am a fast walker if you must know. That is the reason why Mr. Fadzil always get left behind. He kept complaining every time. That's what happened when I was heading to Bloomingsdale. I don't know whether you guys are aware or not. What's in there? This is where I 'fall in love' all over again..

As Sheikh Mohammed was moved by Carrie Bradshaw, he wants a RED VELVET cupcake too! As the results, today, New York's most beloved MAGNOLIA BAKERYBloomingsdale, Dubai Mall, was officially opened in February 2010. Located in it is consider a really big step for them as the three and only branches they have (present) is in Manhattan.

It's just a small shop inside Bloomingsdale BUT, with variety of choices, such as home-baked treats as buttercream-topped cupcakes, old-fashioned banana pudding, and its southern-inspired “hummingbird cake”. I'm willing to walk just across the mall to get 4 cupcakes. After tasting it, I decided, I loved the 'Vanilla cupcake with Cheese Cream Toppings'. And another one, the 'Red Devil' cupcake. It tasted so heavenly, yummy!

If you want to find this store, you have to follow the directions to Bloomingdales and 'On The Top of The Burj' which are on the ground floor same floor as the Musical Fountain, but inside. You will see The Magnolia Bakery exactly at the entrance of Bloomingsdale. The first thing you see is the counter, simply decorated with soft colour and of course stacks of cupcakes and puddings in the glass window display.

at the counter

tempting, yummy cupcakes

minis!!

'the fans' are waiting...

'yeah, make it four. this and that and those..'

'we got our cupcakes, let's go!'

devishly yummy, Red Devil Cupcake!

Vanilla cupcake with cream cheese and lemon toppings!

So, for all cupcakes fan out there! If you're feeling like a cup cupcakes, why don't you head down to Magnolia Bakery in Dubai Mall and indulge yourself with a heavenly tasty cupcakes that guarantee to have your eyes closed when you put it in your mouth. It's where I fall in love, again..

Balik Kampung Fever

2010-06-04T15:18:00.000+04:00

As I'm writing this, I was smiling at my messed up blog layout which I've been trying to re-arrange since ages ago! And because of that my writing routine also got messed up! Plus, I've been so exhausted after my chores of cooking, and cleaning.

Anyway, just ignore everything. I feel like writing now. And that's because I am so happy and counting down the days for me to..................... jeng..jeng..jeng...

BALIK KAMPUNG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Once a year this is the most awaited time and activity for us staying abroad, during summer. Why?

My family, in a very 'skema' way.

from left-top: Farhana, Husna, Hajar and Khalilah.

left-front: ibu and bapak.

First an foremost, TINI is on summer break! 2 and a half month of long break and vacation. from end of June until September.

And then there goes the group of 'monkeys' waiting for me at home. Awhhh...my sisters. I missed them. Their giggles and 'pot, pet, pot, pet at my mom's dining table in the kitchen. Don't get me wrong, I missed my parents too. So much! Everything in the house. The environment, the furniture, the smell.. awwhhhh...

And then the, small town of Kuala Klawang, in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan. We moved around a lot because my dad used to be a soldier. He's like a tactic trainer and everybody called him, 'Cikgu'. 'Cikgu askar!' *wink*

So, Kuala Klawang is the last place we move to before her retired. And Kuala Klawang is his hometown. Bought a land an built a house on it 15 years ago.

Okay, let's get back to the real deal. Going to back to Malaysia or more specific my 'kampung'. Right now I'm imagining the 'pasar malam' on Wednesday evening. The 'kedai cendol' we had our tea break in the afternoon. All of those are among the things that made me greet my teeth and felt the warm tears running on my cheek. Not the places really, the time I get to spend with them the whole time I am home.

My sisters. My 4 sisters. I've known a friend in Dubai that has all sisters in her family. You know who you are. *wink* When we talk, it happened the same things. Talks and giggles like 'chipmunks' that what she said. Anyone out there, you can't blame us. We are close, really close! We barely seen each other, even when I was in Malaysia, because each of us are in boarding school, or college.

The thought of them, made my 'balik kampung fever' even worse.

Argghh... Now I started imagining my mom's newly renovated house, like.. almost a year ago. My dad's herbs garden at the back. Going to the 'dusun', looking for durian. The waterfall, Jeram Toi and Jeram Gading, my mom 'ikan keli salai masak lemak cili api' and it's like 9 days to go.. 9 days! :( But I'll be patient. Packing the bags, and stuff.

Did I tell you guys, that I'm going back just with my babies? Yes, the three of us. Mr. Fadzil will stay behind and go back in August just a few days before Ramadhan.

So, that's me and my fever. *wink*

I Heart Your Blog

2010-05-28T17:30:00.000+04:00

I received plenty award from my blog friends but most of the time I forgot to blog about it. I was reading her blog and I thought, 'Why am I so lazy just to blog about the award she gave me? Huh?!' Don't get me wrong, I LOVED her writing so much! Since I got to know her, she inspired me in many way (writing of course), encouraged me to be more creative that adds up to my busy, hectic life. I never missed reading her entry EVERYDAY! Which I consider my daily dose of laughter or info (in a really great way).

So, to Syigim thanks for the award! I heart your blog too!!!

So to spread the LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOVE!!! I would like to award this to :

Fida
Seri Banun
Roziah Aziz
Naza@Ateng
En.Ashri
Leyna

Have fun guys! Mmmuuuaaahhh!!!

When Falisha is Bored

2010-05-26T16:39:00.000+04:00

Look closer.. what do you think she's doing?

Try and figure it out.

Look at this one..

Look at what she's doing. Yes! The tumbler and the orange cup! :) She is pouring the water from the tumbler into the cup. As if it's not easy enough, just by drinking from the tumbler, using the straw, she wants to drink from the cup. So struggle and struggle she is, and surprisingly, she managed to get some water into the cup. *LOL*

I guess, she is SO BORED when her sister asleep. She found some way to banished the bored situation she's in. I found it funny, and happily snap some photos instead of cleaning up the mess.

Frankly I am surprised to see how smart and creative a 1 year old is when she managed to think of the solution of her problem. Look up at the picture. You guys see that?

This is one of her activity when she is bored. What your kids do?

Sorry For The Blankness

2010-05-26T11:03:00.000+04:00

For the next few days, you will see white blank layout on this page. As it is under 'renovation'. Posting will be appearing (on occasion), and you are welcome to visit anytime.

Towards a better service and 'look', the renovation will go on until further notice. I am so sorry for the inconvenient.

To Cook and Be Creative

2010-05-21T14:24:00.000+04:00

We're attending a BBQ party this evening, hosted by Mr. Fadzil's friends as a farewell party to some of them that will be leaving Dubai soon. I think and I think hard. What should I bring to this party? Yeah, you can't come to a party empty-handed, right? (if I am a host, I didn't mind, because I loved to cook and have people coming and eat)

fresh strawberries always end up in my tummy

As summer is approaching, I have to think of something cold to serve. Not frying or baking, will make you feel really hot just by hanging over the stove. Huh! Well this is really challenging. I googled, and got inspired by many recipes for summer desserts, which included berries. Any berries. Oh, I forgot to tell you guys I'm bringing desserts and cold salad. And the party is hosted by a group of budak bujang so, faham-faham la kan? Just to make sure I bring something decent that will complete the barbeque party.

So, to actually follow the theme, BBQ/barbeque, I created a cold salad inspired by some of my favourite food. A mix of chicken, lychee, pineapple, bell peppers and celery. And guess the dressing! BBQ SAUCE and mayonnaise! It is named Chicken BBQ Salad. This will complete the barbeque platters.

To sweetened the taste at the end of the meal, I inspired myself with the summer desserts theme. My favourite, STRAWBERRY! To put some Malays taste in it, and mixed it all together, I made a special puding jagung the recipes are modified with my own special mix. And I made a special cream strawberry sauce to complete the pudding. I add some tangy taste in the sauce that taste heavenly with the cream and hint of vanilla altogether.

It's been quite sometimes since I last inspired myself like this. I surprised myself, over how far I can go in creating recipes of my own. Because to me, being a cook not just about finding recipes and cook. But how your taste buds play with all the taste, and when you closed your eyes, you get the pictures and ideas and how to create a new taste that even you, yourself will get surprised by it.

Some people have a creative side on writing, sewing, arts and crafts. But this is me. This is how I expressed myself.

So, how do you get creative?

Freezing the Dolphin in Musandam, Oman

2010-05-09T15:24:00.001+04:00

Finally, Mr. Fadzil decided to take us on a trip to Musandam, Oman. I am so happy that I was smiling all day. It was postponed a few times, a things didn't go as planned. But who cares we are going!

Friday, 7.45am.

We left home at this hour and began our journey to Musandam. I was told it took around 4 hours to get there. We drove to RAK and surprisingly reached there in less than an hour. Then we drove further more for 30 minutes and arrived at the immigration to stamp our passport, pay the fees for visa and insurance. (read more..about Musandam and Dolphins)

on our way after we passed RAK

almost at the border

macam tau je orang tengok dia

After we're settled, finally it's Oman! And there's about 30km more until we reach Khasab, the place where we supposed to find a travel agent and find a dhow for the ride.

officially in Oman!

Along the way, the scenery was BEAUTIFUL! Subhanallah, is all I can say when I see it. Being a 'photo freak' now, I took out my camera, equipped with my new 18-200mm lense which can zoom further, I started shooting. I can feel the adrenalin pumping when we passed the dramatic view of the seaside road, and rocky mountains.

after check-point

along the way

believe me, this rocky mountain road is 'bengkang bengkok'

And, finally after 3 hours drives we're in Khasab! It's not 4 hours, it's 3 hours. I didn't even notice how time flies. We passed by a Al-Maha gas station, and at the opposite of the road, there's a row of small buildings. Well, there's our travel agents. Mr.Fadzil went to check it out, while I stayed with the kids. He went to Al-Noor travel agents that provide a good package with a reasonable price, just have to wait and see how is the service.

the travel agents offices..??

He came back after 20 minutes and said, 'Okay, it's done. We have to be here at 1.15pm.' Yippee!!! I ask him which travel agent did he go, he said the 1st one. He paid Dhs150 per adult, for a half day ride, with no meal, for 4 hour. The kids are free!

kat jeti nak naik bot

the other family

photographer nak posing jugak

the best shot ever!

more dolphin

The dhow is small, but not too small, it's comfortable. A kind of low, that you almost can touch the water if you bent down at the boat edges. The advantage is, you can experience the sea, and looking at the dolphin in much clearer view. Well compare to the big high dhow, I guess we made a great choice by taking this travel agent with this dhow.

And the captain, he knows where to look for dolphins. As if it's not enough, he knew how to attract the dolphins, by whistling to them. So, the dolphins end up racing, and jumping side by side of our dhow. And other boats followed us wherever we go. That was so awesome!

Along the way, I enjoy the wind, and beautiful nature of the sea, rock and birds. Ya, Allah memang cantik sangat! We saw a small group of houses on one of the island, and he said, that's a village. There's about 10 families staying there, and the only thing that they are supplied with is electricity. The water? They have to buy it from Khasab, in mainland. I wonder how can they survive in the secluded area that is almost disconnected to the world.

Once they spotted the dolphins, my adrenalin started pumping too. I was so excited, so is Mr.Fadzil and the kids! We were like, 'aarrgghhh!!!! Dolphins! Come one, shoot it! Yeaahhh!!! I got it.' I know, I sound like a mad person, but what the heck, it's the adrenalin talking! :)

I shot, and shot! It was awesome. It is so satisfying when you review the pictures and I managed to FREEZE the dolphins, while they are jumping! I am so happy! My practice is paying, and all my hardwork resulted in all this pictures.

They stop at this one big rock where other dhows stop, for snorkeling and 'mandi-mandi'. It was magnificent! The water is green and clear. You can almost see the fish swimming around. And the boys that ride with us start jumping into the water. Yeah, I almost forgot, we ride the dhow with a group of Dubai's local family. I loved looking at them, what they do, what they wear, just to entertain myself all the way.

orang kementerian pelancongan Oman, buat show

i loved the green sea colour

after swimming

on way back to mainland

We headed back to the mainland after all the excitement. My babies were sound asleep all the way back. I bet they too had too much excitement, that they were drowned in their sleep.

more photos here

General Tao Chicken

2010-05-02T16:43:00.000+04:00

I love collecting and sharing the recipes on my blog. But I do, particular about what I collect and share. Rather than sharing the usual recipes that most people know how to cook, I shared the unique, never-heard-of and tasty recipes that I've cooked and tasted.

I developed a fondness in Chinese cooking. Besides going for Chinese in Dubai area, I prefer to cook it myself. Here is another chinese recipes that I've cooked and guarantee a mouth watering dish for your lunch or dinner.

GENERAL TAO CHICKEN

(serves 3)

INGREDIENTS

1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into bite-size pieces
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger root
1/4 cup chopped green onion
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup

DIRECTIONS

Coat the chicken pieces with 1/4 cup of cornstarch; set aside.
Beat the eggs, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth. Stir in the flour and baking powder until no large lumps remain. Mix in the chicken until evenly coated.
Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Drop in the chicken pieces; cook until golden brown and no longer pink on the inside, about 12 minutes. Set the chicken aside; keep warm.
Reduce the heat to medium-high and stir in the sesame oil, ginger, and green onion. Cook and stir until the onion is limp and the ginger begins to brown, about 1 minute. Pour in the water, vinegar, and sugar; bring to a boil. Dissolve the cornstarch in the soy sauce and add to the simmering vinegar along with the oyster sauce and ketchup. Stir until the sauce has thickened and is no longer cloudy. Stir in the chicken and simmer until hot.

So, Voila! Here it is!

Look Right!

2010-04-30T11:49:00.000+04:00

Hihihi... if CATLINAFLY is reading this, I AM SO SORRY!!!!

I asked CATLINA to make me a banner or sticker or something for me. Ngeeee...!! I'm supposed to put it on my blog like a few weeks ago.. (or is it months?) Anyway, look on the right of this blog. Did you see it? I bet you saw that.

Well she made that for me! Thanks Catlina! It is so cute! So, what are you waiting for, stick this link on your blog, ok!?

Catlina is from OUR BUNDLE OF JOY, we met online after I saw her promotion of Photobooks. Which was awesome! She's a mommy like me, but she has a special something. She's a talented photographer and has her own online 'KEDAI GAMBAR KAMI' that provides various photo services, including the making of photobooks.

Besides that, she has the talent and can make a nice sticky banner or something that she made for me, (of course, with a charge). Nice, isn't it!

So, feel free to click the link to her place!

So, PEACE OUT! *wink*

With This Ring I Me Wed

2010-04-21T14:34:00.000+04:00

I was making sandwich for my babies lunch when I saw this drama on TV.

'I Me Wed'

The title and the plot, is enough to make me weep! Plus, it's funny, hilarious and not to forget the moral of the story.

It's about Isabel, a successful unmarried woman who is not that young (she is infact 30), that had a pressure from people around her about getting married. The pressure goes on until the evening of her friend's bridal shower, and she decided to marry herself. She said, "Why I can't just be happy with myself, without a boyfriend or getting married?" and one of her friend said, "Why don't you marry yourself?" she smiled and said she would do it. Assuming she was joking, no one bother about it until her story was written in a Boston Daily Buzz, a blog that tells women what to do and everything. The moment her story being picked up by them, the whole country talks about it.

It's not a problem until she met Collin and she likes him. What planned as a small symbolic ceremony turned out to be a fully sponsored big wedding, and Collin found out about it when he saw Isabel on a talk show.

The point is, this kind of pressure happened to many women this days. If you're not married, you won't be happy. When a woman reach certain age and she doesn't show any signs of having a boyfriend or getting married people will start asking around, "Bila nak kawin?" That kind of question, usually makes a woman crazy! Do we have to get married because someone expects you to? Or you want to get married because you found the right person to spend your life with? Choose either one.

I think I know what my baby sister going through. I do understand how it feels.

To me as long as you're happy and you know how to take care of yourself, be a good daughter and that's enough. But what makes it worst are the parents itself. Most of the time, parents put the most pressure to the daughter. In this case, as a daughter we have to learn to handle it wisely. If you're not ready to get married, sit down with your parents and talk politely. Don't hurt their feelings. If you're getting married for them, what's left for you?

Think about it.

Do You Scraps?

2010-04-14T12:11:00.001+04:00

What kind of question is that? To some people it may sounds offensive. "Who do you think I am?"

Hahaha.. I didn't mean it like that. Scrapping or scrapbooking digitally is very famous now a days. I am one of the fan of digital scrap booking.

example of scrapping materials

So what is it, really? According to wikipedia, SCRAPBOOKING is a method for preserving personal and family history in the form of photographs, printed media, and memorabilia contained in decorated albums, or scrapbooks. The idea of keeping printed materials of personal interest probably dates to shortly after the invention of printing. This trend is probably similar for photographs.

Marielen Christensen of Spanish Fork, Utah is often credited with reviving interest in scrapbooking in the United States. She began designing creative pages for her family's photo memories, inserting the completed pages into sheet protector collected in 3 rings binder. By 1980, she had assembled over fifty volumes and was invited to display them at the World Conference on Records in Salt Lake City. Marielen and her husband AJ authored and published a how-to book, Keeping Memories Alive, and opened a scrapbook store in 1981 that remains open today.

'Scrappers' or 'scrapbookers' usually get together to scrapbook at each others home, local book stores or maybe a convention.

I am proud to admit, I am a 'scrappers'! I scraps almost everything. Besides scrapping the photos for memories keeping, I did my own layout. My own BLOG LAYOUT. Good eh? I loved spending hours in front of the computer putting together all the nice scrap tit-bits altogether to get an awesome looking blog! (awesome to me at least, I don't care if other people think it's not awesome, but at least I scrapped it myself) I used the Photoshops CS3 to make my own layout (yes the one you see now in my blog, hehehe).

To begin scrapping, you must have a collection pf digital scrapbook materials, look at this girls web,

Scrapgirls,
Shabby Princess,

You can search for more web on scrappings material. But this is among the places you can find free materials. Feel free to look around and try to get the hang of it.

So this is the beginning of creating an awesome looking blog for u guys. I'll share more tips in my next posting.

Look At Us on Blue Outing Day!

2010-04-07T11:39:00.000+04:00

It's been 6 years, and this year it's going to be 7th year of our marriage. We have 2 kids. 2 lovely and crazy kids. We've been staying in Dubai for 4 years. The whole 4 years, I've been sacrificing the time, my job for my husband so that we can be here together. So, the success of Meydan project means the success of my husband in his job too. So, to celebrate it, the company gave them a short break. On Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday. What a break! We had Falisha's birthday party on Friday and more 'jalan-jalan' on the other 2 days. We went to Dubai Mall for a movie, 'How To Train Your Dragon in 3D' and then photos and the musical Fountain, what a day!

We barely had a nice family portrait. I loved this picture so much! I think you guys know why.

'look up!' the best Burj Khalifa pose we ever got!

it reminds me of papparazi shots on hollywood artists.. hah!

Look at the beautiful mist dancing on the water

You guys should how pretty it is at night

Falisha's Belated Birthday Party

2010-04-05T11:34:00.000+04:00

1 year ago, at this time. I was resting, wearing socks, 'kain batik' and 'bengkung'. Yes, I was in confinement alone, taken care by my dear husband. No, I have nobody from Malaysia coming. Hmm... my mother in-law? Nah, she never travels alone, abroad. My mom? She' teaching. So it's up to us to do everything ourselves. My mom has the utmost confident in me. But that's not the story today. it's about Falisha. She turned one on 17th March 2010. And last Friday was a belated celebration for her.

Model tayang gaun by 'Papas and Mamas'

sempat kan jugak sesi fotografi 'ala pengantin'

Yeah, I planned it thoroughly. The menu? I made my own specialty which is very rare in Dubai. TAU FOO FA and SATAY. What? Satay? Yes, I made my own satay here in Dubai! I ordered the cake from Dubai's famous baker, FIDA! She made superb homemade cake and cupcakes! Gerenti halal!

cake by Fida, cute kan?

exactly like I imagined and told

Satay buat sendiri

Birthday song singing session

I invited quite a number of guests but it turned out that some of them went back to Malaysia and some with plans. But others showed up and thank you guys!

Fida (the baker) and her husband Amran

Adzlin and Bob and Haffiy their son

From left: Jamel, Zamzuri and Amran

The Ras Al Khaimah guest. They drove all the way from there.

Alhamdulillah, the party goes well as we planned. Even the guests are enjoying the satay and tau foo fa. We are honored that the guests came, and enjoyed the food as much as we are enjoying their company.

Even some of our friend, made it at the later hour. That makes us even happier. Don't mind all the tiredness. Having our friends showing no matter what it takes, and the effort they made to showed up, it's an honor.

after party Falisha

after party the next morning

Well, what say, you guys just enjoy the pictures from the party okay!

Album Falisha