Anyway, it turned out not bad. The gravy from mussels was what made the whole dish impeccable. I've opened up my taste bud to a whole new dish, yet again. Oh and this time, I made sure I took a photo of it and the banana bread, from yesterday.
Sunday, August 2
Risotto
We had mussels yesterday and there were much leftover gravy, which is packed full of flavour and hubby thought of making a dish out of it. The only dish he could think of was risotto. I've never tried risotto before simply because any rice of sorts other than Jasmine Rice, would taste, funny, I guess.
Anyway, it turned out not bad. The gravy from mussels was what made the whole dish impeccable. I've opened up my taste bud to a whole new dish, yet again. Oh and this time, I made sure I took a photo of it and the banana bread, from yesterday.
Anyway, it turned out not bad. The gravy from mussels was what made the whole dish impeccable. I've opened up my taste bud to a whole new dish, yet again. Oh and this time, I made sure I took a photo of it and the banana bread, from yesterday.
Saturday, August 1
Twas a good day!
We've been such lazy people for the last few months. We wake up early (not as early as most people) to go to work on weekdays and come home when the sun sets. Everyday's a long day for us, so Saturday is a day where we'll just take the golden opportunity to sleep in. The time that we wake up really varies every week; on a not so tiring week, 9 am and on a superbly stressed week, we'll wake up at 12 just on time for lunch! Guess we are not so grown-up afterall since grownups normally don't sleep till that late.
The culprits, other than work to these sleep-ins are, of course (it's not entirely our fault that we are lazy):
1. We've got the best bed on earth; latex bed!
2. We know there won't be anymore chance to sleep in once baby arrives, so we are trying to sleep as MUCH as we can now!
Anyway, a new colleague of mine recently told me about this grower's market at Pyrmont which he and his housemate go to every month. It's held every first Saturday of the month and it's probably the best organic and local producer markets in Sydney, of course not to mention it's just a stroll away from Darling Harbour, a superb and beautiful location.
It got me interested as I was wanting to check out on some plants to put on our balcony. So, I suggested to hubby to come along with me, since I hate going to these places on my own. At first, he was pretty reluctant because it means only one thing, he has to forgo his beauty Saturday sleep and wake up probably earlier than normal days in order to get a parking spot. But thank God for bank holiday this Monday, so in the end he cheerfully agreed.
It was a beautiful morning, and the market was absolutely unlike any asian markets. They are 'civilized' and 'clean' and 'peaceful'. There's a water bay just beside the market and it was an enjoyable morning. We had latte and pretty much our breakfast there too by sampling on all the food on display.
My only regret was, I forgot my camera. I could have taken some photos but my placental head is taking a toll on me now. I am going through pregnancy ie a scatty period now. So, blame it on the baby.
We bought some strawberry and fig jam, which was absolutely lovely and a kg of fresh mussels for dinner. Hubby cooked mussels provencale pasta and it was absolutely excellent that I had to write down the recipe. Again, my scatty brain forgot to take pictures of the mussels.
Then I attempted my banana bread, the second time since the first turned out, well... not sweet, not soft, not moist... basically it was a flop. And after some research, I managed to find out about the secret recipe on baking a soft and moist banana bread -----> apparently, it's sour cream!
Hubby was a a little apprehensive on using sour cream, cuz somehow he couldn't really imagine how the taste would be and how sour cream helps. Oh well, no harm trying I thought.
After an hour or so of baking, voila, it turned out to be probably the best banana bread we've had, so I quote hubby! Will try to take a photo tomorrow when we have it for tea.
Hah, all in all, it was a good cook day for us. Finally a Saturday went by unwasted except it was a litle tarnished by the movie we watched after dinner; Burn After Reading. I am still flabbergasted with that movie. Watch it if you want, and you'll know what I mean.
Oaahhh..... another early morning tomorrow for church, I'm sooooo not a morning person.
The culprits, other than work to these sleep-ins are, of course (it's not entirely our fault that we are lazy):
1. We've got the best bed on earth; latex bed!
2. We know there won't be anymore chance to sleep in once baby arrives, so we are trying to sleep as MUCH as we can now!
Anyway, a new colleague of mine recently told me about this grower's market at Pyrmont which he and his housemate go to every month. It's held every first Saturday of the month and it's probably the best organic and local producer markets in Sydney, of course not to mention it's just a stroll away from Darling Harbour, a superb and beautiful location.
It got me interested as I was wanting to check out on some plants to put on our balcony. So, I suggested to hubby to come along with me, since I hate going to these places on my own. At first, he was pretty reluctant because it means only one thing, he has to forgo his beauty Saturday sleep and wake up probably earlier than normal days in order to get a parking spot. But thank God for bank holiday this Monday, so in the end he cheerfully agreed.
It was a beautiful morning, and the market was absolutely unlike any asian markets. They are 'civilized' and 'clean' and 'peaceful'. There's a water bay just beside the market and it was an enjoyable morning. We had latte and pretty much our breakfast there too by sampling on all the food on display.
My only regret was, I forgot my camera. I could have taken some photos but my placental head is taking a toll on me now. I am going through pregnancy ie a scatty period now. So, blame it on the baby.
We bought some strawberry and fig jam, which was absolutely lovely and a kg of fresh mussels for dinner. Hubby cooked mussels provencale pasta and it was absolutely excellent that I had to write down the recipe. Again, my scatty brain forgot to take pictures of the mussels.
Then I attempted my banana bread, the second time since the first turned out, well... not sweet, not soft, not moist... basically it was a flop. And after some research, I managed to find out about the secret recipe on baking a soft and moist banana bread -----> apparently, it's sour cream!
Hubby was a a little apprehensive on using sour cream, cuz somehow he couldn't really imagine how the taste would be and how sour cream helps. Oh well, no harm trying I thought.
After an hour or so of baking, voila, it turned out to be probably the best banana bread we've had, so I quote hubby! Will try to take a photo tomorrow when we have it for tea.
Hah, all in all, it was a good cook day for us. Finally a Saturday went by unwasted except it was a litle tarnished by the movie we watched after dinner; Burn After Reading. I am still flabbergasted with that movie. Watch it if you want, and you'll know what I mean.
Oaahhh..... another early morning tomorrow for church, I'm sooooo not a morning person.
Sunday, July 19
Nothing much lately
There's nothing much happening in my life lately, apart from the pregnancy stories in my other blog. Work's been usual but I've been more and more incompetent because of my current state. Also because we have new staffs to train, so thank God, I am not needed to do most of the work, I just basically train them and let them do the job! I'm basically taking it easy at work.
However, I'm in a dilemma whether to resign when baby comes. The good thing about Australia is, you get to keep your job for a year although in NSW, you don't get paid maternity leave. But I suppose the baby bonus (about AUD5K) we get for each baby is better than nothing. I cant wait for 2011 when the government will implement paid maternity leave for up to 18 weeks.
Anyway, it's true, nothing much happening although I must blog about my neighbour, Suh who never fails to bring us food whenever we hope for a miracle meal. She's truly like an angel to us. So, we are more than happy to return the favour to her by making food we knew best. The latest being Andrew's famous tiramisu! =) Sorry, no picture this time but just imagine it to be one of the best tiramisu you'll ever taste! =)
In an unrelated matter, I really loathe Sydney's property market, perhaps not just Sydney but everywhere, Sydney being the top 10 most expensive city to live in the world. The housing property has soared sky-high, making it tough for the younger generations to own a property. All because of GREED! All because people want to make money out of properties. In just the last 10 years, properties have doubled, but has our pay doubled?? Well, one can easily do the maths. It's ridiculous, how do they expect the youngters to own a house these days? Oh well, what can we do?
However, I'm in a dilemma whether to resign when baby comes. The good thing about Australia is, you get to keep your job for a year although in NSW, you don't get paid maternity leave. But I suppose the baby bonus (about AUD5K) we get for each baby is better than nothing. I cant wait for 2011 when the government will implement paid maternity leave for up to 18 weeks.
Anyway, it's true, nothing much happening although I must blog about my neighbour, Suh who never fails to bring us food whenever we hope for a miracle meal. She's truly like an angel to us. So, we are more than happy to return the favour to her by making food we knew best. The latest being Andrew's famous tiramisu! =) Sorry, no picture this time but just imagine it to be one of the best tiramisu you'll ever taste! =)
In an unrelated matter, I really loathe Sydney's property market, perhaps not just Sydney but everywhere, Sydney being the top 10 most expensive city to live in the world. The housing property has soared sky-high, making it tough for the younger generations to own a property. All because of GREED! All because people want to make money out of properties. In just the last 10 years, properties have doubled, but has our pay doubled?? Well, one can easily do the maths. It's ridiculous, how do they expect the youngters to own a house these days? Oh well, what can we do?
Sunday, June 28
Yummy scones!
Masterchef Australia has somehow got me excited about cooking/baking, well at least the simplest dish of all. One of them being scones. It looked so easy that I had to try it out. Only difference was I didn't use any lemon zest according to the recipe because the lemon tree in the garden hasn't been producing any good lemons for a while now. I wonder what's wrong with the lemon tree.
Anyway, I'll just share with you the recipe from MasterChef;
Ingredients
150ml-175ml milk150ml cream
1 egg
3 cups self-raising flour
2 tbs caster sugar
1 cup chopped, dried dates
Finely grated rind 1 lemon
Cream & jam, to serve
Makes 12
Method
1. Preheat oven 200°C fan forced. Line large flat oven tray with baking paper.
2. Whisk 150ml milk, cream and egg together until well combined. Combine flour, sugar, dates and lemon rind in a large bowl. Add milk mixture and stir gently to a soft dough, adding remaining milk if necessary. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until dough comes together.
3. Press dough out to 2cm-thick. Cut scones from dough and place onto tray flat-side up. Press dough together gently and repeat using the remaining dough. Brush the tops with milk and sprinkle with a little sugar. Bake 12-15 minutes until golden and well risen. Serve hot with jam and cream.
P/S: Do get a really good quality jam and not just any sugar spread, else the sweetness will be an overkill.
Tuesday, June 16
The day I embarked on my life journey
I can still remember the day I was all set to fly to Sydney, to start the next chapter of my life. I have a friend who just left Malaysia for the States to reunite with her boyfriend of many many years, now her fiance. I am so excited and am truly happy for her. I wish her all the happiness she so deserves.
I don't think many people knew I was heading for Australia because no one really said goodbye to me except my uni friends. But that was also because the night I flew was the last day of my final exam for my degree. So I bade farewell to my close friends at Uni and couldn't contain my happiness and joy that I will soon be reuniting with Andrew.
Preparation for Sydney, went by like a breeze. It was like, I was meant to come here. There wasn't any trepidation, for I knew and trusted the person whom I will commit myself to. I wasn't sure what my family were thinking, were they thinking, was that it? To see their beloved daughter leave home for good? That finally, their daughter is all grown up? To me, it was that way. I knew it was for good, I knew I will soon set up my own family and my own life. It will be the next phase of my life.
That day was in March, 2004. It wasn't yesterday nor was it too long ago. Today, indeed I have my own family now, and soon with an addition. Life in Sydney has taught me so many things. I daresay I am not the same person as before. I have grown and changed so much, although still much to learn I hope. God has indeed kept His promises to me. I almost couldn't see a way to come to Sydney, but when God opened the door and showed me the way, I could so far beyond the horizon. That was when God gave me strength and courage to come to Sydney. This is probably one of the best and wisest decision I've ever made in my life.
So, for my friend, Angel, I hope you find that finally, the happiness and joy that you are going to embrace is worth all the wait and will be one of the best thing that ever happen to you, in your life.
I don't think many people knew I was heading for Australia because no one really said goodbye to me except my uni friends. But that was also because the night I flew was the last day of my final exam for my degree. So I bade farewell to my close friends at Uni and couldn't contain my happiness and joy that I will soon be reuniting with Andrew.
Preparation for Sydney, went by like a breeze. It was like, I was meant to come here. There wasn't any trepidation, for I knew and trusted the person whom I will commit myself to. I wasn't sure what my family were thinking, were they thinking, was that it? To see their beloved daughter leave home for good? That finally, their daughter is all grown up? To me, it was that way. I knew it was for good, I knew I will soon set up my own family and my own life. It will be the next phase of my life.
That day was in March, 2004. It wasn't yesterday nor was it too long ago. Today, indeed I have my own family now, and soon with an addition. Life in Sydney has taught me so many things. I daresay I am not the same person as before. I have grown and changed so much, although still much to learn I hope. God has indeed kept His promises to me. I almost couldn't see a way to come to Sydney, but when God opened the door and showed me the way, I could so far beyond the horizon. That was when God gave me strength and courage to come to Sydney. This is probably one of the best and wisest decision I've ever made in my life.
So, for my friend, Angel, I hope you find that finally, the happiness and joy that you are going to embrace is worth all the wait and will be one of the best thing that ever happen to you, in your life.
Saturday, May 16
Our hot plant
It's time to harvest our chillies! We collected a whole bag of chillies and have no idea what to do with most of them. Sue has kindly offered to make sambal for us but I guess we have to distribute the chillies to people who likes them.
By the way, did I ever mention that this is the hottest chilli we've ever tasted. Even my aunties who are chilli queens, agreed that this chili variant (bird's eye chili) planted in our landlord's garden is the BEST and the most FIERY!!!
By the way, did I ever mention that this is the hottest chilli we've ever tasted. Even my aunties who are chilli queens, agreed that this chili variant (bird's eye chili) planted in our landlord's garden is the BEST and the most FIERY!!!
Talking about an instant reply from God!
I try to pack food for lunch whenever possible. Especially days when hubby cooks, he will try to cook more (as I always tease him, as though he cooks for the whole 'kampung') and I will pack food for lunch the next day. Food at my cafeteria is so boring and not much of a variety. I could go to Macquarie Shopping Centre for lunch but it's too much of a trouble for me to drive there everytime.
So one night, hubby whipped up something really delicious and as predicted, we finished our dinner without any leftover. So, we were wondering what to bring to work the next day.
A few moments later, there was a knock on the door. Sue, my lovely Singaporean lady who lives next door (who married an angmoh, and has 2 beautiful kids) was at the door, holding up a plate of chicken lasagne fresh from the oven!!! We couldn't believe our blessing from the above...bless her soul!
That's when you know, God REALLY provides! The lasagne was absolutely delicious, too!!
So one night, hubby whipped up something really delicious and as predicted, we finished our dinner without any leftover. So, we were wondering what to bring to work the next day.
A few moments later, there was a knock on the door. Sue, my lovely Singaporean lady who lives next door (who married an angmoh, and has 2 beautiful kids) was at the door, holding up a plate of chicken lasagne fresh from the oven!!! We couldn't believe our blessing from the above...bless her soul!
That's when you know, God REALLY provides! The lasagne was absolutely delicious, too!!
Perth trip
I have been so slack. I did try to update my pregnancy blog but not this blog. So, please forgive me.
My company sent me to Fremantle for a genetics conference 2 weeks ago and although it was a last minute trip for us, it was worth it. Hubby was a little hesitant to go with me but after much persuasion, he gave in. All in all he enjoyed the trip but regretful that he lost his ipod! =(
Fremantle is absolutely beautiful and I can imagine myself living there. Perth as a whole is pretty nice to stay compared to Sydney. Sydney's too congested and fast-paced. If anyone's thinking of retirement, go to Perth.
I've posted heaps of photos in Facebook, so I'm kinda lazy to post it here because I have to resize all the pictures. I could do this through Picasa, but somehow I have been encountering some problems uploading photos in this blog through Picasa.
This trip has been a good experience for me. It was my first time attending a national conference and it was high time my company does something for me since I've been slogging like crazy for this company. It was probably going to be our last holiday together too before the baby comes. =)
Goodbye 'singlehood' and welcome motherhood! I'm so going to miss my sleep..
My company sent me to Fremantle for a genetics conference 2 weeks ago and although it was a last minute trip for us, it was worth it. Hubby was a little hesitant to go with me but after much persuasion, he gave in. All in all he enjoyed the trip but regretful that he lost his ipod! =(
Fremantle is absolutely beautiful and I can imagine myself living there. Perth as a whole is pretty nice to stay compared to Sydney. Sydney's too congested and fast-paced. If anyone's thinking of retirement, go to Perth.
I've posted heaps of photos in Facebook, so I'm kinda lazy to post it here because I have to resize all the pictures. I could do this through Picasa, but somehow I have been encountering some problems uploading photos in this blog through Picasa.
This trip has been a good experience for me. It was my first time attending a national conference and it was high time my company does something for me since I've been slogging like crazy for this company. It was probably going to be our last holiday together too before the baby comes. =)
Goodbye 'singlehood' and welcome motherhood! I'm so going to miss my sleep..
Sunday, April 12
Happy Easter!
Happy Easter everyone! It's awesome having a 4-day weekend and thank God for countries that celebrate Easter like Australia. =) It's great having to have another few days of rest even though I just got back from a long break myself.
See those bunnies in the picture? Aren't they cute? They are chocolates inside and I couldn't bear to eat them but they are Lindt chocolate, who can resist!
Anyway, nothing much for today apart from going to church for Easter Sunday service and came to realize that I have been quite distant from God. I have been extremely busy with other stuffs that I haven't been in touch with the Lord. I've shifted my focus without even realizing that I'm forsaking what's most important in life.
I thank the Lord for the baby that I'm carrying, well that reminds me of His faithfulness and His grace to me everyday, anyway. Carrying a baby is a great reminder of God's presence in my life. I have to ask for forgiveness and ask for help to get back on the right track.
Saturday, April 11
Back from holidays!
Since, being pregnant, I find that I have been plagued by a disease called 'placental brain'. I am not as active as before, I begin to pause longer to find words I want to say and short term memory lost is more imminent than ever.
Anyway, I am glad to have such a long break back home in Malaysia though I hardly meet up with many of my friends. Most of the time, I am just indulging myself with treats and meals that I sorely missed or I will be sleeping because of my tired state.
This time round, my impression of Malaysia is somewhat tainted by the ever-rising cost of living. RM10 nowadays used to be like RM2 in the olden days. It's hard to change my mindset and spend accordingly. Most of the time, I tend to complain and be aloof more and more to the money that I have to keep spending. Guess what, RM2000 is NOT enough to spend for the whole month for the two of us. Apart from spending on food, I only managed to spend on some baby's stuffs. It's ironic!! Oh well, not to mention I have a very 'poor' family whom I have to do 'charity work' by footing bills most of the time.
Hubby was feeling depressed when he came back to Sydney. Upon seeing all my belongings at home and the scent that's so familiar to me, I was overcomed with an overwhelming feeling and thought to myself, I actually miss my 'home' back in Sydney. This is my place with my own space. What a liberation! As much as I miss mum and sister back home, I still love to have my own space and my own life. I don't think I can be away from my home for longer than a month.
We are seriously thinking about moving back to Malaysia. Hubby has had enough with Australia. He simply hates this country because of how they suck money out of you. And I was thinking to myself, as if Malaysia doesn't do it, probably with lesser severity.
Apart from holidays, life has been pretty mundane. I'm back at work with more work than ever. Probably a punishment for having to take maternity leave soon, which I can't wait!
=)
Anyway, I am glad to have such a long break back home in Malaysia though I hardly meet up with many of my friends. Most of the time, I am just indulging myself with treats and meals that I sorely missed or I will be sleeping because of my tired state.
This time round, my impression of Malaysia is somewhat tainted by the ever-rising cost of living. RM10 nowadays used to be like RM2 in the olden days. It's hard to change my mindset and spend accordingly. Most of the time, I tend to complain and be aloof more and more to the money that I have to keep spending. Guess what, RM2000 is NOT enough to spend for the whole month for the two of us. Apart from spending on food, I only managed to spend on some baby's stuffs. It's ironic!! Oh well, not to mention I have a very 'poor' family whom I have to do 'charity work' by footing bills most of the time.
Hubby was feeling depressed when he came back to Sydney. Upon seeing all my belongings at home and the scent that's so familiar to me, I was overcomed with an overwhelming feeling and thought to myself, I actually miss my 'home' back in Sydney. This is my place with my own space. What a liberation! As much as I miss mum and sister back home, I still love to have my own space and my own life. I don't think I can be away from my home for longer than a month.
We are seriously thinking about moving back to Malaysia. Hubby has had enough with Australia. He simply hates this country because of how they suck money out of you. And I was thinking to myself, as if Malaysia doesn't do it, probably with lesser severity.
Apart from holidays, life has been pretty mundane. I'm back at work with more work than ever. Probably a punishment for having to take maternity leave soon, which I can't wait!
=)
Wednesday, February 18
25 random tunes
Athena tagged me on this and I thought why not.. quite fun to share with you all what's in my iTunes (I actually ran out of ideas for my blog lately, hence thank God for Athena's tagging!)
1. The Impossible Dream - Andy Williams
2. Kung Fu Fighting - Carl Douglas
3. Inside Your Heaven - Carrie Underwood
4. Send me a song - Celtic Woman
5. My immortal - Evanescence
6. Big girls don't cry - Fergie
7. The sweet escape - Gwen Stefani
8. Como se cura - Jaci Velasquez
9. Lost in Paradise - Joanna Wong
10. Take a bow - Madonna
11. You'll get through this - Martina McBride
12. La Vie en Rose - Patricia Kaas
13. Tan Qing Shuo Ai - Sally Yeh & Sammi Cheng
14. Who do you think you are - Spice Girls
15. Push the button - Sugababes
16. Broken Vow - Josh Groban
17. She - Elvis Costello
18. If - David Gates
19. When you're gone - Bryan Adams & Melanie C
20. Demi Cinta - Anang & Kris Dayanti
21. Kiss of Heaven - Darlene Zschech
22. The simple things - Vanessa Amorosi
23. Don't give up - Natalie Bassingthwaighte & Shannon Noll
24. Night of my life - Damien Leith
25. True colours - Cyndi Lauper
There you go.. since I don't many fellow bloggers to tag, I'll just tag my sis, jiunnli!
1. The Impossible Dream - Andy Williams
2. Kung Fu Fighting - Carl Douglas
3. Inside Your Heaven - Carrie Underwood
4. Send me a song - Celtic Woman
5. My immortal - Evanescence
6. Big girls don't cry - Fergie
7. The sweet escape - Gwen Stefani
8. Como se cura - Jaci Velasquez
9. Lost in Paradise - Joanna Wong
10. Take a bow - Madonna
11. You'll get through this - Martina McBride
12. La Vie en Rose - Patricia Kaas
13. Tan Qing Shuo Ai - Sally Yeh & Sammi Cheng
14. Who do you think you are - Spice Girls
15. Push the button - Sugababes
16. Broken Vow - Josh Groban
17. She - Elvis Costello
18. If - David Gates
19. When you're gone - Bryan Adams & Melanie C
20. Demi Cinta - Anang & Kris Dayanti
21. Kiss of Heaven - Darlene Zschech
22. The simple things - Vanessa Amorosi
23. Don't give up - Natalie Bassingthwaighte & Shannon Noll
24. Night of my life - Damien Leith
25. True colours - Cyndi Lauper
There you go.. since I don't many fellow bloggers to tag, I'll just tag my sis, jiunnli!
Tuesday, February 3
When one loses a dearest
Wind Beneath My Wings (Piano) - Instrumental
It was a Tuesday night when Andrew and I went over to Jean and Ringo's place to wish our landlady all the best with the operation she was going to undergo. At her age, it isn't a simple operation, it has to be treated as a major operation since we are talking about removing tumour from her kidney.
She looked worried but submitted her fears to our heavenly father. She said one thing, "we just have to play the cards we're dealt with in life". It was only human of her to fear about pain, the post-operation care and particularly infection in one of the oldest hospital in Sydney. Ringo ridiculed her anxiety and assured her, all will be fine. Ringo even said to us that we all leave this place, one day, may be now, may be later.
Both Andrew and I wished her a successful operation and prayed for her. We gave her a warm hug and hoped to see her again. Little did we know, it was going to be the last time, we saw her. She was only in her mid-60s.
The day after the operation, Ringo contacted us saying, the operation went smoothly and all was good. A big tumour was removed and Jean is resting. We were thrilled with the news. We were patient for her to recover and come home so we get to see her again. But on Sunday, Ringo called and I picked up. Ringo briefly mentioned to us, that Jean is on life support. I was speechless and had to gather my thoughts on what to say and feel. Ringo thought I couldn't hear him. Then I said, can we come to the hospital but to which he said no need because there are family members around. Ringo explained further that Jean had an infection and her liver failed to function. Hence the doctor had to put her in ICU on life support.
I couldn't find any words to say. We wanted to comfort him but we were too shocked to do anything. This was also the day Federer lost his 4 consecutive win in Melbourne Open to Nadal.
Soon after, a mutual neighbour came knocking at our door and urged us to go to the hospital to bid farewell just in case Jean doesn't make it. She has just gone to the hospital to see Jean. Immediately we grabbed our car key and drove to the hospital.
I couldn't contain it when I saw Jean. I couldn't hold back my tears. Just days before, she was so alive and well. Now, she's all yellow and bloated. For a human to be in this state, it's unimaginable and incomprehensible. She has been strong all her life and having undergone over 20 operations all her life, she must have had her fair share of pain.
Today, in the afternoon, Andrew called to tell me, Jean didn't make it. Tears just rolled down my cheeks when I thought of Ringo. He has been the best husband to Jean, the most hard working man, a provider and supporter for Jean. He has not left her side since day one of the hospital stay. He checked into the hospital too, if I may say it that way.
We visited Ringo after dinner and he looked busy and tired and obviously distraught. He told us he cried the whole day and has no appetite for any food. Thank goodness, Jean's best friend came and made him some dinner, otherwise we would have offered to cook something for him. Again, as I looked at the familiar house and chair which Jean was always resting, I was literally sobbing. I couldn't bear to think that Ringo is going to be all alone now, without his life companion. As we live just behind them, it makes us feel as though we are family and even more we felt for his loss.
Every other morning, we would hear Jean's laughter in the garden. She was always full of laughter and has a positive perspective of life. One would have much to learn from her.
Rest in peace, Jean. We will miss your smile, your laughter and most of all your presence.
Friday, January 23
Chinese New Year 2009
This year, once again I will be missing Chinese New Year. I've missed it in 2007 and I vowed not to miss it again. Unfortunately, situation is such that it's unavoidable (work's the main culprit, not mine but hubby's!).
I felt it in 2007 and I was depressed the entire time. This year was not an exception. I already felt depressed and almost close to tears at work every time I imagine what my family is doing right at that instance.
Every year, this time of the year is particularly special. Christmas is special too, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, but Chinese New Year is the only time when family members get together and put away all differences to have that kindred spirit with one another.
When I was younger, I enjoyed CNY so much until the day I got married. Things were different after marriage since I no longer am able to join my own family for reunion dinner. So, let me reminisce those days when I spent CNY with my family as an unmarried woman.
Every CNY, we would travel to Ipoh (the only shopping mall was Super Kinta then) to shop for clothings and as preparation for the festival. All the children in the family (at that time only my brother and I) got to wear new clothes for CNY. There was one time when I told my mum on the eve that she's forgotten to buy me new shoes. She panicked and without hesitation, she drove me to Bata shop and got me a really beautiful pair of shoes. Even then, I knew my mother truly loved me.
Then my aunties would be back from Brunei and all aunties would gather around making love letter biscuits using the traditional way. The tradition lasted up till today.
When I was about 5-6 years old, I remember my family used to sell flowers and fruits in Kg Koh. Those were the most exciting and happy times. Shops would open till midnight for few nights leading up to the eve of CNY. On the eve of CNY, we would have family reunion dinner and soon after, my uncles would start putting up red fire cracker attached a high point outside the shop. Eventhough I didn’t understand the reason to light fire crackers, it didn’t matter at all because it surely was fun and exciting for me.
The moment the clock hit midnight, the whole village started lighting fire crackers and it went on and on for about half an hour. It was as though, everyone was trying to compete with one another to see whose crackers will last the longest. The streets were filled with passersby and some people were riding around in motorbikes circling villages just to enjoy the happy and merry atmosphere.
Then we moved to a new place when I was seven and things gradually started to change. We no longer felt the merriment in the village. It was only when my family bought a big house and all family members stayed together did some of the good old times came back to us. After the passing of my grandfather, things were different too. The family became larger with more additions to the family. Every year was seemingly the same until I was much older.
The shopping for new clothes still continued and reunion dinner was always the best when women in the family cooked their specialty dish. My mum is particularly good with chau mein ie fried noodles. The skill and recipe was passed down by my grandfather. I can never get it right while practising it in Australia because the noddles are just not the right one. Anyway, my aunties would cook all the other dishes and hence the reunion dinner would start and end with much merriment and laughter.
My brother and I learned how to play cards and soon, it was my sister’s turn. She became really good at it and it was only when all of us were bigger, our uncles and aunties enjoyed our company more. They appreciate us more and value our presence even more than before. We would play cards through the night while waiting to light fire crackers. The card playing would continue for many days and nights after.
As years passed, the fire crackers evolved and became more like fireworks than fire crackers. Although firecrackers were banned by the country, folks still ‘miraculously’ able to obtain fireworks from god-knows who. Although police would drive around town to ‘catch’ and stop people from lighting fireworks, somehow it didn’t stop the fireworks from shooting up the sky. For once, it was sheer liberation to see the community going against the authority (please, I don't encourage that).
Once it was all over, we would all head back home for a good night’s rest.
The next morning, we would put on our finest clothings and the first thing we have to do is to wish our family members well like ‘Gong Xi Fa Cai’ and a few others which my mum taught us (of course, now I’ve forgotten them all). The dressing up was the best and it was for no apparent reason. We only stayed at home most of the time and probably only go out once in a while for visiting friends and relatives. But mainly, we would stay at home and start playing card games and mah-jong more recently. Then all the children in the family would receive angpows (red-packet) from the married couples and somehow I am always the luckiest as I get more money each year compared to my brother and sister. That’s because I have many god-families. One family took care of me when I was very young, and they treated me like their own until I was older. Another was a more recent god-family where my godparents would give me a bigger angpow than my brother and sister. But my siblings were never envious of me. They knew I was different.
CNY cookies were the best and we would have much junk food to munch throughout the day. We also stock up all sorts of drinks, fizzy drinks and fruit drinks for family members and visitors. As children, we never get a chance to drink Shandy (my favourite) and other fizzy drinks throughout the whole year, and only get to drink it during CNY. Oh, it was such a merry and unforgettable time.
So tell me now, as my families are gathering around, making love-letter biscuits, preparing the house for the festival, having reunion dinner, watching fireworks, giving of angpows (not that I miss this part because I have to give out angpows since I’m married now) and playing card games with family members, how can I not be depressed??
It is not only depressing, but torturing having to endure the thoughts and imagination of all the fun I miss out. Life is pretty confronting as you grow older. But most of them, we make the choices with our own hands. Question is, should we live for the future or the present?
Here’s wishing all of you, Happy Ox Year 2009 and hope that God bless you all abundantly with His riches blessings.
I felt it in 2007 and I was depressed the entire time. This year was not an exception. I already felt depressed and almost close to tears at work every time I imagine what my family is doing right at that instance.
Every year, this time of the year is particularly special. Christmas is special too, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus, but Chinese New Year is the only time when family members get together and put away all differences to have that kindred spirit with one another.
When I was younger, I enjoyed CNY so much until the day I got married. Things were different after marriage since I no longer am able to join my own family for reunion dinner. So, let me reminisce those days when I spent CNY with my family as an unmarried woman.
Every CNY, we would travel to Ipoh (the only shopping mall was Super Kinta then) to shop for clothings and as preparation for the festival. All the children in the family (at that time only my brother and I) got to wear new clothes for CNY. There was one time when I told my mum on the eve that she's forgotten to buy me new shoes. She panicked and without hesitation, she drove me to Bata shop and got me a really beautiful pair of shoes. Even then, I knew my mother truly loved me.
Then my aunties would be back from Brunei and all aunties would gather around making love letter biscuits using the traditional way. The tradition lasted up till today.
When I was about 5-6 years old, I remember my family used to sell flowers and fruits in Kg Koh. Those were the most exciting and happy times. Shops would open till midnight for few nights leading up to the eve of CNY. On the eve of CNY, we would have family reunion dinner and soon after, my uncles would start putting up red fire cracker attached a high point outside the shop. Eventhough I didn’t understand the reason to light fire crackers, it didn’t matter at all because it surely was fun and exciting for me.
The moment the clock hit midnight, the whole village started lighting fire crackers and it went on and on for about half an hour. It was as though, everyone was trying to compete with one another to see whose crackers will last the longest. The streets were filled with passersby and some people were riding around in motorbikes circling villages just to enjoy the happy and merry atmosphere.
Then we moved to a new place when I was seven and things gradually started to change. We no longer felt the merriment in the village. It was only when my family bought a big house and all family members stayed together did some of the good old times came back to us. After the passing of my grandfather, things were different too. The family became larger with more additions to the family. Every year was seemingly the same until I was much older.
The shopping for new clothes still continued and reunion dinner was always the best when women in the family cooked their specialty dish. My mum is particularly good with chau mein ie fried noodles. The skill and recipe was passed down by my grandfather. I can never get it right while practising it in Australia because the noddles are just not the right one. Anyway, my aunties would cook all the other dishes and hence the reunion dinner would start and end with much merriment and laughter.
My brother and I learned how to play cards and soon, it was my sister’s turn. She became really good at it and it was only when all of us were bigger, our uncles and aunties enjoyed our company more. They appreciate us more and value our presence even more than before. We would play cards through the night while waiting to light fire crackers. The card playing would continue for many days and nights after.
As years passed, the fire crackers evolved and became more like fireworks than fire crackers. Although firecrackers were banned by the country, folks still ‘miraculously’ able to obtain fireworks from god-knows who. Although police would drive around town to ‘catch’ and stop people from lighting fireworks, somehow it didn’t stop the fireworks from shooting up the sky. For once, it was sheer liberation to see the community going against the authority (please, I don't encourage that).
Once it was all over, we would all head back home for a good night’s rest.
The next morning, we would put on our finest clothings and the first thing we have to do is to wish our family members well like ‘Gong Xi Fa Cai’ and a few others which my mum taught us (of course, now I’ve forgotten them all). The dressing up was the best and it was for no apparent reason. We only stayed at home most of the time and probably only go out once in a while for visiting friends and relatives. But mainly, we would stay at home and start playing card games and mah-jong more recently. Then all the children in the family would receive angpows (red-packet) from the married couples and somehow I am always the luckiest as I get more money each year compared to my brother and sister. That’s because I have many god-families. One family took care of me when I was very young, and they treated me like their own until I was older. Another was a more recent god-family where my godparents would give me a bigger angpow than my brother and sister. But my siblings were never envious of me. They knew I was different.
CNY cookies were the best and we would have much junk food to munch throughout the day. We also stock up all sorts of drinks, fizzy drinks and fruit drinks for family members and visitors. As children, we never get a chance to drink Shandy (my favourite) and other fizzy drinks throughout the whole year, and only get to drink it during CNY. Oh, it was such a merry and unforgettable time.
So tell me now, as my families are gathering around, making love-letter biscuits, preparing the house for the festival, having reunion dinner, watching fireworks, giving of angpows (not that I miss this part because I have to give out angpows since I’m married now) and playing card games with family members, how can I not be depressed??
It is not only depressing, but torturing having to endure the thoughts and imagination of all the fun I miss out. Life is pretty confronting as you grow older. But most of them, we make the choices with our own hands. Question is, should we live for the future or the present?
Here’s wishing all of you, Happy Ox Year 2009 and hope that God bless you all abundantly with His riches blessings.
Friday, January 16
Cold Mountain
I've always wanted to watch this movie since my sister recommended it many years ago. Somehow I never got a chance to do it. Finally when my sister came to Sydney for a visit, we managed to rent this movie and watch during one of the nights.I was mesmerized from the start. This is the sort of love story I look for, set in wartime. The ending was somewhat sad but I did appreciate the acting especially by Jude Law. No doubt by now, he is a good actor and I absolutely am crazy over him.
As for Nicole, every movie she acts, she has only style and it's so Nic. Critics were harsh on her, but I thought they should give her a break. People don't like her acting yet they still want to watch her, how weird.
If you haven't watched this show, I recommend it highly if you are a sucker for love story. The music is brilliant too, which sets the mood for the entire movie.
Thursday, January 1
Happy New Year 2009!
Happy New Year to all.
What a great ending for 2008 and a great start for 2009. I had an awesome Christmas gift and also took my sister to watch fireworks last night. It was spectacular although I cannot tell you which year is the best cause every year seemed impressive beyond comparison.
They say time pass us by in a blink of an eye, but both my sister and I agreed, it wasn't exactly that fast. Imagine if you were to relive the whole year again starting from January 1, 2008 till last night, would you have thought it to be that fast? Probably not. It wasn't fast, nor was it slow too. But what matters most is that we made use of every minute we have and we are satisfied to have achieved more things in life, than yesteryear.
Today, we invited a good friend over for New Year. We wanted to watch the movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, but due to unforseen circumstance, we couldn't watch the movie. But thank God, we had a great dinner. Had roast lamb and vegetables accompanied by a nice sparkling wine called Riccadona.
Unfortunately, tomorrow is a working day and how I dread working. Oh well, I'm going to have a long break soon. I just can't wait!
What a great ending for 2008 and a great start for 2009. I had an awesome Christmas gift and also took my sister to watch fireworks last night. It was spectacular although I cannot tell you which year is the best cause every year seemed impressive beyond comparison.
They say time pass us by in a blink of an eye, but both my sister and I agreed, it wasn't exactly that fast. Imagine if you were to relive the whole year again starting from January 1, 2008 till last night, would you have thought it to be that fast? Probably not. It wasn't fast, nor was it slow too. But what matters most is that we made use of every minute we have and we are satisfied to have achieved more things in life, than yesteryear.
Today, we invited a good friend over for New Year. We wanted to watch the movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, but due to unforseen circumstance, we couldn't watch the movie. But thank God, we had a great dinner. Had roast lamb and vegetables accompanied by a nice sparkling wine called Riccadona.
Unfortunately, tomorrow is a working day and how I dread working. Oh well, I'm going to have a long break soon. I just can't wait!
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