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.
Showing posts with label Everyday life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Everyday life. Show all posts
Saturday, August 1
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!!!
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!
Monday, December 29
Too preoccupied with something else...
So sorry for neglecting this blog. After my parents in law left Sydney for Malaysia, my sister came to visit us. She's been really good and she's been so lucky that it's Christmas time. We've got so much events and invitations lining up and it just gave us the opportunity to bring her around.
I wish I can post up some photos soon although I have done so in Facebook, so please if you are keen to view the photos, just add me by searching for my name -> Sarah Cheong. However let me know that you are a regular visitor of my blog, so I can accept you as friend! Many people whom I don't even know added me for the sake of increasing the number of friends in FB. This kind of people, I have only one word for them=> LOSER!
On another note, I have been too pre-occupied with something else that will be taking over my life and also hubby's life for the rest of our lives starting from now. Please visit my new sister blog to find out what is it! Please do not worry, I will never neglect this blog. So, stay tune!
I wish I can post up some photos soon although I have done so in Facebook, so please if you are keen to view the photos, just add me by searching for my name -> Sarah Cheong. However let me know that you are a regular visitor of my blog, so I can accept you as friend! Many people whom I don't even know added me for the sake of increasing the number of friends in FB. This kind of people, I have only one word for them=> LOSER!
On another note, I have been too pre-occupied with something else that will be taking over my life and also hubby's life for the rest of our lives starting from now. Please visit my new sister blog to find out what is it! Please do not worry, I will never neglect this blog. So, stay tune!
Monday, December 22
A blessed Christmas time!
Just wanted to wish everyone a
Happy and a Blessed Christmas time with family and friends...
Will be busy during Christmas so, will blog when I find time soon!
Happy and a Blessed Christmas time with family and friends...
Will be busy during Christmas so, will blog when I find time soon!
Sunday, December 14
Time flies
Before we knew it, it's been 6 weeks since my in-laws came to visit. Today, they left for Singapore and thank God there were seats as their seats were based on a waiting list. So, off they went in first class back to Singapore and Malaysia.
Andrew was pretty quiet on the way home. I knew what he was feeling, as I understand what it's like to be away from loved ones. When we don't see them, we have to get on with life, but once we are with them, parting deems difficult. Anyway, he should be alright. That's life.
As for me, I came back to the house, thinking that it doesn't feel like my home at all. We've forgotten how nice and comfortable our latex bed was. As I looked around, we've got so much addition into the house that I barely recognize. Gosh, I'll be having a jolly good time cleaning up again.
But the comforting news is that my sister will be coming to visit. I don't have to clean up the house as hard because I don't need to impress her, so does my mum if she's here. That's how easy I am with my mum and sis. But for everyone else, I am bound to receive judgment based on how my house look and if they were my aunts, it's death penalty if the house doesn't pass their satisfaction.
Although we have more freedom now, suddenly we feel lonely as if there isn't any purpose for us being here in Sydney. Hope we don't fall into depression again, although Big Elf is more prone to it than I am.
Andrew was pretty quiet on the way home. I knew what he was feeling, as I understand what it's like to be away from loved ones. When we don't see them, we have to get on with life, but once we are with them, parting deems difficult. Anyway, he should be alright. That's life.
As for me, I came back to the house, thinking that it doesn't feel like my home at all. We've forgotten how nice and comfortable our latex bed was. As I looked around, we've got so much addition into the house that I barely recognize. Gosh, I'll be having a jolly good time cleaning up again.
But the comforting news is that my sister will be coming to visit. I don't have to clean up the house as hard because I don't need to impress her, so does my mum if she's here. That's how easy I am with my mum and sis. But for everyone else, I am bound to receive judgment based on how my house look and if they were my aunts, it's death penalty if the house doesn't pass their satisfaction.
Although we have more freedom now, suddenly we feel lonely as if there isn't any purpose for us being here in Sydney. Hope we don't fall into depression again, although Big Elf is more prone to it than I am.
Sunday, November 30
Monday, November 10
Beautiful home? Not so!
It's been a while since I blogged and for obvious reasons (my in-laws are here), I am unable to blog. However, I have been typing serially and save them until I find time to finish blogging a post before posting them.
I've always dreamt of having a beautiful home since young. Well, who doesn't, I'm sure many people do. Personally, the interior matters more, so I don't need a big house, big yard nor a big garden. I like things to be orderly and beautiful placed and of course, clean! Unfortunately, homes like these comes with high price. Interior decors are costly and every little stylish/classy ornaments are expensive. If you know what I'm talking about, organised home needs a little more stuff than normal. With that I mean, nice boxes, drawers, baskets, cabinets, wardrobe and etc. Decorations are important too such as plants (artificial or non-artifical), lamps, picture frame, carpets, cushions and all the other impractical but pretty knick-knacks.
My dream home is to have a set of everything, a theme design and colour which is white and if I had to choose wood, it would be dark (chalet style) wood and not the lighter brown wood. Unfortunately, my husband prefers the latter and hence, you can imagine the conflict we are deemed to have.
Since we don't have a house of our own now, it really doesn't matter as much whether or not I have a beautiful home, as long as I have a clean and comfortable home. We perpetually choose not to have nice furniture as it may not fit our own house one day. We live in a very small flat and although so, I still try my best to make it look beautiful.
Council clean-up day happens twice a year. It was coming up, so I searched high and low for things we do not need, and placed them by the roadside to be picked up by the council. Sometimes, passers-by will pick up things which may be useful for them, like the saying goes, one man's waste is another's treasure. In a sense, we consider this as blessing others.
I did mention before and I believe I have changed my habit to only keep things I need. I have learnt not to hoard things. I tried so hard to de-clutter but I guess, things aren't as easy as I thought. Let me share with you. My in-laws are very shrewd and thrifty people. Perhaps, that is the reason why they are rich for they are good steward of God's money. However, I don't know if this is a good example to follow, being someone who loves to hoard things even when we don't really need it. Perhaps coming from their background and perspective, they do not view things like we do now. They think that we may need it someday, and when we do, isn't it good to have one ever ready for us to use without spending unnecessarily.
For us, particularly myself (since I'm the home minister and hubby is the food minister) I decide what sort of furniture we need and what we don't. Since council clean-up day is around the corner, the whole neighbourhood starts clearing stuffs and you can see there are at least something gathered at the front of every house. Hence, it is a great opportunity for my in-laws to pick up stuffs which 'they' think are useful. Inevitably, they managed to pick up several things, notably an old computer desk (wood in colour) now being used in the laundry area, a 3-drawer bedside table (also wood in colour) now being used to place our broiler at the kitchen and a fruit basket.
Here I was, trying so hard to clear unnecessary things at home, and instead I got a few additional unwanted stuffs at home. It was quite a blow to my effort of keeping the house beautiful and clean. I just totally didn't have the mood to clean up the house anymore because things just looked ugly the very instance I saw the picked-up furnitures.
Well, what can I say? Those furnitures aren't light, and we learnt that my father in-law actually carried them all the way home. It was cruel, unsympathetic and ungrateful to reject the good intention and well-meaning from my in-laws. I just had to take it with a pinch of salt and worry about the furnitures later.
Thank God it's only our rented home, should this be our own and beautiful home, I have no idea how to react to this situation. My dreams of a beautiful home might as well be squashed and trampled on the ground till it no longer exist.
Just so you know, what sort of furnitures I'm talking about..
The computer desk.
The supposedly bedside table.
This was collected by my in-laws last 2 year and no, we haven't done anything with it.
Perhaps, I am just being repugnant, but seriously it just isn't my liking at all. Oh, Lord, help me!
I've always dreamt of having a beautiful home since young. Well, who doesn't, I'm sure many people do. Personally, the interior matters more, so I don't need a big house, big yard nor a big garden. I like things to be orderly and beautiful placed and of course, clean! Unfortunately, homes like these comes with high price. Interior decors are costly and every little stylish/classy ornaments are expensive. If you know what I'm talking about, organised home needs a little more stuff than normal. With that I mean, nice boxes, drawers, baskets, cabinets, wardrobe and etc. Decorations are important too such as plants (artificial or non-artifical), lamps, picture frame, carpets, cushions and all the other impractical but pretty knick-knacks.
My dream home is to have a set of everything, a theme design and colour which is white and if I had to choose wood, it would be dark (chalet style) wood and not the lighter brown wood. Unfortunately, my husband prefers the latter and hence, you can imagine the conflict we are deemed to have.
Since we don't have a house of our own now, it really doesn't matter as much whether or not I have a beautiful home, as long as I have a clean and comfortable home. We perpetually choose not to have nice furniture as it may not fit our own house one day. We live in a very small flat and although so, I still try my best to make it look beautiful.
Council clean-up day happens twice a year. It was coming up, so I searched high and low for things we do not need, and placed them by the roadside to be picked up by the council. Sometimes, passers-by will pick up things which may be useful for them, like the saying goes, one man's waste is another's treasure. In a sense, we consider this as blessing others.
I did mention before and I believe I have changed my habit to only keep things I need. I have learnt not to hoard things. I tried so hard to de-clutter but I guess, things aren't as easy as I thought. Let me share with you. My in-laws are very shrewd and thrifty people. Perhaps, that is the reason why they are rich for they are good steward of God's money. However, I don't know if this is a good example to follow, being someone who loves to hoard things even when we don't really need it. Perhaps coming from their background and perspective, they do not view things like we do now. They think that we may need it someday, and when we do, isn't it good to have one ever ready for us to use without spending unnecessarily.
For us, particularly myself (since I'm the home minister and hubby is the food minister) I decide what sort of furniture we need and what we don't. Since council clean-up day is around the corner, the whole neighbourhood starts clearing stuffs and you can see there are at least something gathered at the front of every house. Hence, it is a great opportunity for my in-laws to pick up stuffs which 'they' think are useful. Inevitably, they managed to pick up several things, notably an old computer desk (wood in colour) now being used in the laundry area, a 3-drawer bedside table (also wood in colour) now being used to place our broiler at the kitchen and a fruit basket.
Here I was, trying so hard to clear unnecessary things at home, and instead I got a few additional unwanted stuffs at home. It was quite a blow to my effort of keeping the house beautiful and clean. I just totally didn't have the mood to clean up the house anymore because things just looked ugly the very instance I saw the picked-up furnitures.
Well, what can I say? Those furnitures aren't light, and we learnt that my father in-law actually carried them all the way home. It was cruel, unsympathetic and ungrateful to reject the good intention and well-meaning from my in-laws. I just had to take it with a pinch of salt and worry about the furnitures later.
Thank God it's only our rented home, should this be our own and beautiful home, I have no idea how to react to this situation. My dreams of a beautiful home might as well be squashed and trampled on the ground till it no longer exist.
Just so you know, what sort of furnitures I'm talking about..
The computer desk.
The supposedly bedside table.
This was collected by my in-laws last 2 year and no, we haven't done anything with it.Perhaps, I am just being repugnant, but seriously it just isn't my liking at all. Oh, Lord, help me!
Sunday, November 2
Kindred Atmosphere
My in-laws arrived on Thursday evening and are comfortably settled in our place. They had a pleasant flight from Singapore to Sydney, well, obviously since their son, Paul was the pilot. They only had praises for Paul throughout the whole journey, commenting about the smooth take-off and landing, how well the announcement was made and how he went to the first class cabin numerous times to make sure his parents are comfortable. I am happy for my in-laws for being so blessed.
Andrew and I arrived at the airport shortly before my in-laws passed the custom check. Praise the Lord that it was a smooth one too. Nothing was confiscated and the custom officer was very kind towards my in-laws. So, no drama at the airport. However, we weren't at the airport earlier to catch Paul before he left the airport. I was told how good he looked in the captain uniform. No doubt about it, I can imagine.
We headed home soon after and gave my in-laws some time to freshen up a little before going out for dinner with Paul. My mother in law was particularly impressed with our humble abode, and commented how clean and well-kept the place is. I was absolutely flattered and happy that it made an impression on her. Soon, it was time for dinner. We expected to meet Paul at the Hurricanes (Darling Harbour). All SIA crews stay in a luxurious hotel, so no need for Paul to crash at our small little flat.
We met up at the restaurant and Paul still looked good for his age. We greeted each other and for the first time, to my surprise, Paul gave me a hug! I wasn't expecting that at all...(I could've worn a better bra, ohh anyways... he's my brother in law, for goodness sake!!!). I think Paul doesnt know I have a blog, and he's somewhat a very private person. So, I think it will cheese him off to find that I blog about him.
Look, girls, there IS someone out there still!! He's handsome, he's a pilot and a captain that is, needless to say he's rich, he's kind, generous and has a heart of gold. The only proverbial downside is that he has very high expectation of a partner. So, it's not going to be easy to fit his criteria. He has another downside but... I believe his good points outweigh the bad ones.
Ok, enough about him.
We proceeded to the restaurant and had one of our favourite meal, pork ribs. Everyone wasn't as famished as I was, so we only had 2 full racks to be shared among 5 people. The treat was on us. After dinner we headed back home to show Paul where we live. We had a good time just catching up with one another and Paul was so kind to help install some useful programs on my laptop. It was really nice to have family members around. It was close to midnight and so we sent Paul back to his hotel and called it a day.
Both Andrew and myself took a day off on Friday. I have no qualms about blogging my day off as my boss knows my in laws are in Sydney. My boss even reminded me, in-laws will never be like family. To what extent it's true, only I myself know. We had planned for yum-cha for brunch and we picked Paul up from the hotel. Went to Marigold for yum cha and my in-laws loved it although they thought it was rather expensive. Paul graciously treated us and soon, we had to part with Paul as he had to fly back to Singapore that afternoon. Sadly, it will probably be another 6 months or 1 year before we see Paul again.
We had a lovely weekend. We went for grocery shopping, had lunch at a Shanghainese restaurant. Andrew and I made sure his parents are comfortable and forbade them from doing anything at all. Our arrangement is such that we will cook on weekends, and they can cook on weekdays if they like. Andrew cooked some nice lamb steak and marinara pasta whereas I made the vietnamese cold dish. They absolutely loved our cooking so far.
That's our weekend. So far, no dramas with my in-laws and I pray pray pray hard that there won't be any for the next 4 weeks. Ok, that's all the update for now.
Andrew and I arrived at the airport shortly before my in-laws passed the custom check. Praise the Lord that it was a smooth one too. Nothing was confiscated and the custom officer was very kind towards my in-laws. So, no drama at the airport. However, we weren't at the airport earlier to catch Paul before he left the airport. I was told how good he looked in the captain uniform. No doubt about it, I can imagine.
We headed home soon after and gave my in-laws some time to freshen up a little before going out for dinner with Paul. My mother in law was particularly impressed with our humble abode, and commented how clean and well-kept the place is. I was absolutely flattered and happy that it made an impression on her. Soon, it was time for dinner. We expected to meet Paul at the Hurricanes (Darling Harbour). All SIA crews stay in a luxurious hotel, so no need for Paul to crash at our small little flat.
We met up at the restaurant and Paul still looked good for his age. We greeted each other and for the first time, to my surprise, Paul gave me a hug! I wasn't expecting that at all...(I could've worn a better bra, ohh anyways... he's my brother in law, for goodness sake!!!). I think Paul doesnt know I have a blog, and he's somewhat a very private person. So, I think it will cheese him off to find that I blog about him.
Look, girls, there IS someone out there still!! He's handsome, he's a pilot and a captain that is, needless to say he's rich, he's kind, generous and has a heart of gold. The only proverbial downside is that he has very high expectation of a partner. So, it's not going to be easy to fit his criteria. He has another downside but... I believe his good points outweigh the bad ones.
Ok, enough about him.
We proceeded to the restaurant and had one of our favourite meal, pork ribs. Everyone wasn't as famished as I was, so we only had 2 full racks to be shared among 5 people. The treat was on us. After dinner we headed back home to show Paul where we live. We had a good time just catching up with one another and Paul was so kind to help install some useful programs on my laptop. It was really nice to have family members around. It was close to midnight and so we sent Paul back to his hotel and called it a day.
Both Andrew and myself took a day off on Friday. I have no qualms about blogging my day off as my boss knows my in laws are in Sydney. My boss even reminded me, in-laws will never be like family. To what extent it's true, only I myself know. We had planned for yum-cha for brunch and we picked Paul up from the hotel. Went to Marigold for yum cha and my in-laws loved it although they thought it was rather expensive. Paul graciously treated us and soon, we had to part with Paul as he had to fly back to Singapore that afternoon. Sadly, it will probably be another 6 months or 1 year before we see Paul again.
We had a lovely weekend. We went for grocery shopping, had lunch at a Shanghainese restaurant. Andrew and I made sure his parents are comfortable and forbade them from doing anything at all. Our arrangement is such that we will cook on weekends, and they can cook on weekdays if they like. Andrew cooked some nice lamb steak and marinara pasta whereas I made the vietnamese cold dish. They absolutely loved our cooking so far.
That's our weekend. So far, no dramas with my in-laws and I pray pray pray hard that there won't be any for the next 4 weeks. Ok, that's all the update for now.
Tuesday, October 28
My loving husband
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What the???!!!!!
What the???!!!!!
He brought this home from work which was shared among all colleagues. Left one and he took it home (with the big empty box). Oh well, at least he thought of me! I enjoyed it to the very last bit!!!
Sunday, September 14
Caramel
Welcome to the new look of Sarah's blog. I was thrilled when I finally managed to upload this template after several attempts and initial failures. I looked around just to scout for templates, yet I always end up with the same theme colour ie pink or shades of pink. I was down to a final few choices which were green, purple and pink. Yet, the pink won. But they all have the same kind of design ie floral. I am truly girly!!
Anyway, it was a great weekend. The spring weather was pleasantly cool. We slept in later than usual on Saturday and how we dread for the day when we have to forgo our lovely sleeps (that is when the baby comes). Like any other typical Saturdays, I started cleaning the house. Big Elf was craving for BBQ pork and duck for lunch, but after much contemplation, we decided against it. Big Elf then came up with a really nice and simple lunch ie fried vermicelli. We had a fairly small portion because there will be a good dinner coming our way. We wanted to reserve our stomach for it.
My colleagues (2 are ex-es) wanted to to do something for my birthday. Usually there will be a cake at work and a small party that last for about 15-20 minutes. But because of the politics at work, I thought it was pretty superficial when everyone tries to be nice in that small window of time when there has already been a crack on the glass. Surely, it wasn't easy to mend the hurts, embarrassment, anger and hatred towards one another, still for some reasons unknown to myself, I bought myself a cake and celebrated with everyone. Probably because I was selfish. I didn't want the day to pass without a cake for myself.. it was still a special day to me. So, I just relinquished whatever feelings there were and just be nice to everyone.
Anyway, we had already planned to go out for dinner even before I decide to have the cake at work. So, Saturday was the day we met up and I treated it as the girls' night out, except our partners were only 'tagging' along. We went to the same Japanese restaurant as where I had my birthday last year (We are still not sick of it yet!). We had a really good time, the girls at one end, and the guys at the other. Food was great as usual. I couldn't take photos of the food as everyone started devouring the food as soon as it touches the table. However, I did manage to take some photos of the dessert, nothing fancy but alright. I was so touched with the birthday presents though!
Sunday was raining heavily in the morning and before the evening came, I suddenly remembered I was given 2 tickets for a movie preview. It was apparently a chick flick and I didn't think Big Elf would be interested. Still, I had to be grateful that I was given the free movie pass and if ever I was asked about the movie, I could give an answer. It was unfair to Big Elf should I 'force' him to watch the movie with me. Yet he was so kind that he accompanied me to the movies. I did tell him that should he find the movie boring, he can take the car home and pick me up later. Amazingly, he stayed till the end.
Caramel was the name of the film and it's our first Lebanese movie. It was quite a charming movie with constant humour throughout the movie. For me, it caught my attention, firstly as it was a film by a female director. I haven't seen many movies directed by women and I am quite interested to find out more. Secondly, I wasn't even sure if the language of the film was french or arabic or english. But I figured there will be subtitles since it's a foreign movie. The movie didn't really wow me and I didn't expect it to for a drama. Yet, it was a pretty enjoyable movie. Everyone in the cinema seemed to appreciate it, probably because it was free. I doubt they will have similar reactions should they have paid for the movie, they would have expected much more than just a drama for a film in the cinema. Unfortunately, that's just humans! Everything free IS good! How bizarre!
After the movie, we came home, still managed to pull through a lovely dinner. We prepared them beforehand, so it didn't take us long to have dinner. Again, Big Elf delivers (so, he always proclaim!). He cooked one of the finest curry chicken (his signature dish) that goes with nasi lemak. It was finger-licking good! And if you ask about my role in the kitchen, I'm a great assistant I must say. I cut out the ingredients and prepare whatever's needed. After dinner, I wash up everything, that's my role! If you must say, my role probably needs more hardwork, where as Big Elf's role needed more of skill (something which I lack, unfortunately!). Ultimately, we make a good team in the kitchen.
Oh well, that's our weekend and it's a shame that the weekend only lasted this long. We are so looking forward to next weekend and the next and the next... =)
Anyway, it was a great weekend. The spring weather was pleasantly cool. We slept in later than usual on Saturday and how we dread for the day when we have to forgo our lovely sleeps (that is when the baby comes). Like any other typical Saturdays, I started cleaning the house. Big Elf was craving for BBQ pork and duck for lunch, but after much contemplation, we decided against it. Big Elf then came up with a really nice and simple lunch ie fried vermicelli. We had a fairly small portion because there will be a good dinner coming our way. We wanted to reserve our stomach for it.
My colleagues (2 are ex-es) wanted to to do something for my birthday. Usually there will be a cake at work and a small party that last for about 15-20 minutes. But because of the politics at work, I thought it was pretty superficial when everyone tries to be nice in that small window of time when there has already been a crack on the glass. Surely, it wasn't easy to mend the hurts, embarrassment, anger and hatred towards one another, still for some reasons unknown to myself, I bought myself a cake and celebrated with everyone. Probably because I was selfish. I didn't want the day to pass without a cake for myself.. it was still a special day to me. So, I just relinquished whatever feelings there were and just be nice to everyone.
Anyway, we had already planned to go out for dinner even before I decide to have the cake at work. So, Saturday was the day we met up and I treated it as the girls' night out, except our partners were only 'tagging' along. We went to the same Japanese restaurant as where I had my birthday last year (We are still not sick of it yet!). We had a really good time, the girls at one end, and the guys at the other. Food was great as usual. I couldn't take photos of the food as everyone started devouring the food as soon as it touches the table. However, I did manage to take some photos of the dessert, nothing fancy but alright. I was so touched with the birthday presents though!
Sunday was raining heavily in the morning and before the evening came, I suddenly remembered I was given 2 tickets for a movie preview. It was apparently a chick flick and I didn't think Big Elf would be interested. Still, I had to be grateful that I was given the free movie pass and if ever I was asked about the movie, I could give an answer. It was unfair to Big Elf should I 'force' him to watch the movie with me. Yet he was so kind that he accompanied me to the movies. I did tell him that should he find the movie boring, he can take the car home and pick me up later. Amazingly, he stayed till the end.
Caramel was the name of the film and it's our first Lebanese movie. It was quite a charming movie with constant humour throughout the movie. For me, it caught my attention, firstly as it was a film by a female director. I haven't seen many movies directed by women and I am quite interested to find out more. Secondly, I wasn't even sure if the language of the film was french or arabic or english. But I figured there will be subtitles since it's a foreign movie. The movie didn't really wow me and I didn't expect it to for a drama. Yet, it was a pretty enjoyable movie. Everyone in the cinema seemed to appreciate it, probably because it was free. I doubt they will have similar reactions should they have paid for the movie, they would have expected much more than just a drama for a film in the cinema. Unfortunately, that's just humans! Everything free IS good! How bizarre!
After the movie, we came home, still managed to pull through a lovely dinner. We prepared them beforehand, so it didn't take us long to have dinner. Again, Big Elf delivers (so, he always proclaim!). He cooked one of the finest curry chicken (his signature dish) that goes with nasi lemak. It was finger-licking good! And if you ask about my role in the kitchen, I'm a great assistant I must say. I cut out the ingredients and prepare whatever's needed. After dinner, I wash up everything, that's my role! If you must say, my role probably needs more hardwork, where as Big Elf's role needed more of skill (something which I lack, unfortunately!). Ultimately, we make a good team in the kitchen.
Oh well, that's our weekend and it's a shame that the weekend only lasted this long. We are so looking forward to next weekend and the next and the next... =)
Friday, September 12
Fickly Fickle
I know, the title doesn't make sense. I have been reading some people's blogs.. and I always tend to like their template or layout better than mine. The thing about me is, it's not that I envy, I just tend to get bored with something ever so quickly. I never stick to something for a long time. Of course, this does not apply in every aspect of my life, just things that doesn't have implications, you know? Things that can give me pleasure, just by looking at them.
These are some examples to explain what I mean.
1. I always never stick to a single type of handwriting. My best friend can vouch for that. I love to write differently depending on my mood. But of course, nowadays with technology ruling our lives, we no longer hand write, it's all computer!
2. I am always coming out with ideas to improve the home, I never stick to one position of the furnitures. I love to swap them around and re-arrange them. It just makes the whole environment, different! In a way, it's a great way to clean up the house more thoroughly. There was once, I shifted a bookshelf after a year being in it's solitary confinement, just to find the back of the bookshelf being infested by cockroaches!! It was horrible!! I should have moved it earlier!! Lately, I'm so tempted to buy new curtains for the home. We only have 1 type for the whole house. In fact, we have to thank our landlord for supplying them. It's pretty I must say, a plain curtain in orange and peach colour (my favourite). However, it's been more than 2 years, and I am absolutely sick of them! When it's time to wash them, I have to make sure I wash them early in the morning, so that it will be dry on time before the sun goes down, just so I can hang it up again.
3. My latest desire, is to change my blog template! I've only changed it twice so far, I believe. However, I can assure you, it won't be long before I start to get bored of the new one. I have also saved all my blog entries as backup just in case I lose them. So within the next few days, expect a new template and layout of the blog!
These are some examples to explain what I mean.
1. I always never stick to a single type of handwriting. My best friend can vouch for that. I love to write differently depending on my mood. But of course, nowadays with technology ruling our lives, we no longer hand write, it's all computer!
2. I am always coming out with ideas to improve the home, I never stick to one position of the furnitures. I love to swap them around and re-arrange them. It just makes the whole environment, different! In a way, it's a great way to clean up the house more thoroughly. There was once, I shifted a bookshelf after a year being in it's solitary confinement, just to find the back of the bookshelf being infested by cockroaches!! It was horrible!! I should have moved it earlier!! Lately, I'm so tempted to buy new curtains for the home. We only have 1 type for the whole house. In fact, we have to thank our landlord for supplying them. It's pretty I must say, a plain curtain in orange and peach colour (my favourite). However, it's been more than 2 years, and I am absolutely sick of them! When it's time to wash them, I have to make sure I wash them early in the morning, so that it will be dry on time before the sun goes down, just so I can hang it up again.
3. My latest desire, is to change my blog template! I've only changed it twice so far, I believe. However, I can assure you, it won't be long before I start to get bored of the new one. I have also saved all my blog entries as backup just in case I lose them. So within the next few days, expect a new template and layout of the blog!
Saturday, July 19
More organised with junk food
We are such junkie.. I was looking around my flat only to find all sorts of junk food stored in either in their original plastic wraps or in the plastic lunch box tupperware. They look so messy and so embarrasing should we have visitors come to our place. It's not just the way it's being presented but also portrays what unhealthy eater we are.
This is my tupperware pantry, where all my junk food were previously stored in those ugly lunch boxes. After emptying out all the junk food, I realised I have so many tupperwares.
I was looking for some nice tupperwares and I came across one for sale, 49 pieces of tupperware for only 10bucks! The quality is good too! I only need it to store all my junk food anyway, so long as it's airtight, I'm pleased. Now, we are a more organised junkie!!
This is my tupperware pantry, where all my junk food were previously stored in those ugly lunch boxes. After emptying out all the junk food, I realised I have so many tupperwares.
I was looking for some nice tupperwares and I came across one for sale, 49 pieces of tupperware for only 10bucks! The quality is good too! I only need it to store all my junk food anyway, so long as it's airtight, I'm pleased. Now, we are a more organised junkie!!
Tuesday, July 8
A surprise visit but a pleasant one...
Yesterday afternoon, I was watching TV when I heard this funny chirping sound at my balcony. It was quite loud and I can feel that it was close to me. I looked over to my side and to my surprise, there was this beautiful parrot sitting on the railing of the balcony. It came twice already and I missed it the first time. So, I was prepared if it comes again. Without wasting any time, I quickly took some snaps of the parrot. But I guess, the parrot sensed my movement and was frightened away. Oh well, perhaps I should give the parrot some food to encourage him or her to come again. =)
Saturday, June 28
Too many hobbies.. so little time..
There are a million things which I want to do but I just don't have the time for it. My day starts at 7am and by the time I come home from work, it's probably around 7pm on typical days. I have to go to gym 3 times a week and unfortunately, laziness ruled on some days and I ended up going to gym only twice a week, which is still not too bad (comforting myself here). By the time I get home from gym, it would be about 8.30pm. Then, we take turns to cook dinner. Sometimes we just eat out. If we cook, it will be about 9.30 -10pm after clearing up and washing up dishes. Then, we will go online just to check our e-mails and catch up with family and friends. That will take at least half an hour, which is archetypical and obligatory. That will leave me with another 1 hour or less to do my hobby. Now, tell me, how is it even possible to do my hobby? Some days I will be so exhausted (most of the days) and I just want to watch movies and not do anything else, not even eat!!
Here are the things I want to do at the moment:
1. I want to do read my books (possible on some days, but so frustrated because I cannot finish reading sooner than I anticipated),
2. I want to make jewelleries and sell them if possible (I am still waiting to have time to set up a website or even seeking some help from friends who won't charge me),
3. I want to study about photo-editting and photo effects (I have to practice and read all the tutorials online),
4. I want to knit (winter's arrived and I only managed to knit a scarve since this year)
5. I want to borrow some Hong Kong TVB's series, gosh I miss those time when I used to follow the 6pm movie in TV2 or TV3 and the 8pm series on Wah Lai Toi (although quite unlikely now due to the money involved to rent),
6. And my latest interest is to play piano, so much so that I want to get a new digital piano. I haven't played the piano since I left home for uni. Come to think of it, it's quite a waste to finish Grade 8 and not play at all now. Pity my parents who had to struggle to pay for my piano lesson fees last time. Perhaps, I should serve in the worship ministry and make full use of this ability. (At this point of blogging, I really feel compelled to serve the Lord). I can sing and dance and play the piano although not excellent but I guess good enough to serve the Lord with what I have.
If only I work nearer to home, right now it can easily take me 3 hours driving to and from work every single day. What a total waste of time!! No wonder days just pass us by just like that. Travelling time really irritates me to the core although I must say, it's the best time to learn patience.
God knows my heart's desire. If He is willing, He will help me by changing my situation now. If not, He probably thinks I can still endure the travelling and not spending my time wisely. This may be too menial an issue for some, but I guess I am feeling tired from all the travelling. Work wise is alright, although the company's not very kind to their staffs. I often wonder, why do people even bother sacrificing so much for this company.
Anyway, I wish I don't have to work so I can do all the things I love to do. Then again, the only such time to happen is when I have a baby. Then again, taking care of a baby is worse, not just an 8 hours job, but a 24 hours, round the clock job!!!
Please don't get me wrong. I am not unhappy with life now. I just have so much excitement in life after having found so many hobbies. I just can't seem to find time to do them. I just pray that God will answer that little prayer of mine in due time.
Here are the things I want to do at the moment:
1. I want to do read my books (possible on some days, but so frustrated because I cannot finish reading sooner than I anticipated),
2. I want to make jewelleries and sell them if possible (I am still waiting to have time to set up a website or even seeking some help from friends who won't charge me),
3. I want to study about photo-editting and photo effects (I have to practice and read all the tutorials online),
4. I want to knit (winter's arrived and I only managed to knit a scarve since this year)
5. I want to borrow some Hong Kong TVB's series, gosh I miss those time when I used to follow the 6pm movie in TV2 or TV3 and the 8pm series on Wah Lai Toi (although quite unlikely now due to the money involved to rent),
6. And my latest interest is to play piano, so much so that I want to get a new digital piano. I haven't played the piano since I left home for uni. Come to think of it, it's quite a waste to finish Grade 8 and not play at all now. Pity my parents who had to struggle to pay for my piano lesson fees last time. Perhaps, I should serve in the worship ministry and make full use of this ability. (At this point of blogging, I really feel compelled to serve the Lord). I can sing and dance and play the piano although not excellent but I guess good enough to serve the Lord with what I have.
If only I work nearer to home, right now it can easily take me 3 hours driving to and from work every single day. What a total waste of time!! No wonder days just pass us by just like that. Travelling time really irritates me to the core although I must say, it's the best time to learn patience.
God knows my heart's desire. If He is willing, He will help me by changing my situation now. If not, He probably thinks I can still endure the travelling and not spending my time wisely. This may be too menial an issue for some, but I guess I am feeling tired from all the travelling. Work wise is alright, although the company's not very kind to their staffs. I often wonder, why do people even bother sacrificing so much for this company.
Anyway, I wish I don't have to work so I can do all the things I love to do. Then again, the only such time to happen is when I have a baby. Then again, taking care of a baby is worse, not just an 8 hours job, but a 24 hours, round the clock job!!!
Please don't get me wrong. I am not unhappy with life now. I just have so much excitement in life after having found so many hobbies. I just can't seem to find time to do them. I just pray that God will answer that little prayer of mine in due time.
Friday, June 27
Cinema at home!
As usual, we spent some nights at home watching movie. This time, Big Elf made some popcorn. I was so excited to see how the corn popped and puffed up when heated. It's my first time making popcorn and I can't believe how easy it was. Haha. We don't have a popcorn maker, so we just made it using a normal pot and we used honey instead of sugar. I reckon it's healthier that way. Anyway, it was lovely, just like those at the cinema. Over the period of 3 days, we watched 3 movies ie Sweeney Todd, The Pathfinder and National Treasure 2. If you know me, they are not my kind of movie. It's obviously Big Elf's choices. I was given a chance to choose a movie, so I chose Sweeney Todd. Bad choice!!! It was such a boring musical.Since they won some award at the Oscars, I thought they might be good. Gosh, and we've never seen anything so bloody before and I cannot understand why they do what they did. Just too hard for me to comprehend the whole story. The only song, however that caught our attention was this: "I feel you, Jo-an-na... ". It lingers at our ears for days. haha..
By the way, I am so lazy to blog lately. Lots of things to write though, just no mood for it. My apologies to all my loyal readers. I promise I will write something exciting soon, probably another testimony. =)
By the way, I am so lazy to blog lately. Lots of things to write though, just no mood for it. My apologies to all my loyal readers. I promise I will write something exciting soon, probably another testimony. =)
Sunday, May 18
Best vacuum cleaner
One can never fathom how much dust there is in the air. I personally do not know how it originated but I learnt that dust consist mainly of human dead skins and of course, not to mention the outdoor contribution to the dust at home. I wonder how people in the olden days clean their house. They sweep and sweep and sweep, yet little do they know, the amount of dust swept is really modest compared to vacuuming.
We only live in a very small flat (don't ask me how big or how small, it's really small) and we used to own a fairly old vacuum cleaner. Despite the weekly vacuuming, I can sense that there are still so much dust around. Thanks to my sensitive nose. I will sneeze non-stop as I'm allergic to dust.
Till one day, the call for a new vac came when ours finally died. It stopped whilst vacuuming and smoke just came out of the filter part, or whatever engineers call it. It freaked me out for a moment. But twas a good thing, I can finally get a bagless vac.
We looked around a few websites and compared different brands and prices, but none caught our eye. Finally we went to The Good Guys, and tested out a few vacs. We narrowed down our choices to a Samsung and Volta. Brand wise, of course Sams are more well-known. Anyway, we finally decided on the Samsung one cause of the better features offered.
We came home, excited with the new vac and hubby couldn't wait to try it on. One interesting feature about this vac is the collection of dust (primarily) in a little cylinder-like case attached to the handle part. The length of the cylinder is about 7inches long and 3 inches in diameter. After vacumming the whole flat, we had to literally empty the cylinder casing not once, not twice but three times!! It was a shock finding. We couldn't believe our eyes when we saw the dust. Anyway, that was perhaps the worst time to vacuum because of the breakdown of our old vac. The dust must have accumulated that much after a couple of weeks of not vacuuming the house!
A picture of the Samsung vac.
An empty cylinder just before vacuuming!
Amount of dust after just a week of not vacuuming!!
I strongly recommend this vac for a small home.
Bro ~ check this vac out if you have it there. Rather than checking the floor for dusts using torchlight, here's a simpler solution!!! =)
We only live in a very small flat (don't ask me how big or how small, it's really small) and we used to own a fairly old vacuum cleaner. Despite the weekly vacuuming, I can sense that there are still so much dust around. Thanks to my sensitive nose. I will sneeze non-stop as I'm allergic to dust.
Till one day, the call for a new vac came when ours finally died. It stopped whilst vacuuming and smoke just came out of the filter part, or whatever engineers call it. It freaked me out for a moment. But twas a good thing, I can finally get a bagless vac.
We looked around a few websites and compared different brands and prices, but none caught our eye. Finally we went to The Good Guys, and tested out a few vacs. We narrowed down our choices to a Samsung and Volta. Brand wise, of course Sams are more well-known. Anyway, we finally decided on the Samsung one cause of the better features offered.
We came home, excited with the new vac and hubby couldn't wait to try it on. One interesting feature about this vac is the collection of dust (primarily) in a little cylinder-like case attached to the handle part. The length of the cylinder is about 7inches long and 3 inches in diameter. After vacumming the whole flat, we had to literally empty the cylinder casing not once, not twice but three times!! It was a shock finding. We couldn't believe our eyes when we saw the dust. Anyway, that was perhaps the worst time to vacuum because of the breakdown of our old vac. The dust must have accumulated that much after a couple of weeks of not vacuuming the house!
A picture of the Samsung vac.
An empty cylinder just before vacuuming!
Amount of dust after just a week of not vacuuming!!
I strongly recommend this vac for a small home.
Bro ~ check this vac out if you have it there. Rather than checking the floor for dusts using torchlight, here's a simpler solution!!! =)
Saturday, May 17
My usual Saturdays
I work Monday to Friday, and there are days I really didn't feel like going to work. However, that rarely happens, the only reason for that was because I do like my job unlike school days where almost everyday I didn't feel like going to school. Anyway, without a doubt I always look forward to weekends especially Saturdays because it's the only day I get to sleep in late and wake up say 10-ish. There are days when I do wake up earlier, feeling refreshed, then I would start with the housework or go to gym (the latter happens only recently).
Anyway, my typical Saturdays will always include doing housework such as cleaning, ironing, washing and vacuuming. Thank God for husbands who loves to cook ie my husband. While doing all these "hard" work, he will prepare food for me. We had bible study last night and I thought I've 'trained' my body to take more tanin/caffeine as I've been drinking tea. Actually, not really. Come to think of it, I've been drinking just rooibos tea, which is caffeine free. Sigh, really, nothing's changed. So, during bible study, we were served tea and I drank 2 small cup. Only TWO and I can't believe it affected me the whole night. We came home and I didn't feel sleepy at all. I was wide awake until 3.30am! It's so frustrating.
As a result, I woke up really late ie 11 something. Hubby woke me up to let me know breakfast or brunch (if you like) was ready (where to find such husband??). I woke up to a really nice breakfast served before me (I love the eggs!).
After breakfast/brunch, we normally run some errands and do some shopping. Then if there's time, we will come home and just throw ourselves onto our lovely bed and just snore away. However, if it was after 3pm, we try not to as we would prefer to be able to sleep at night and not disrupt our normal sleeping routine. We didn't take our afternoon nap today, of course, plus I have to do my housework. So, off I went to do my cleaning, washing and vacuuming. Hubby went to play some basketball with friends and he came back to a clean and tidy house, a feeling he always loves!
Soon it was dinner time and our menu for dinner includes sweet and sour prawns. I've been craving for it for so long and was looking forward to it. I made white raddish soup with pork bones and cooked a vegetable dish. Hubby finally cooked my favourite dish and it really tasted as good as it looks!
After dinner, we normally proceed to the couch to watch TV. If there's something on we will watch them, else we will watch a movie instead if we rented them. Or like what I am doing now, I will just blog.
Hence, that conclude my typical Saturdays!
Anyway, my typical Saturdays will always include doing housework such as cleaning, ironing, washing and vacuuming. Thank God for husbands who loves to cook ie my husband. While doing all these "hard" work, he will prepare food for me. We had bible study last night and I thought I've 'trained' my body to take more tanin/caffeine as I've been drinking tea. Actually, not really. Come to think of it, I've been drinking just rooibos tea, which is caffeine free. Sigh, really, nothing's changed. So, during bible study, we were served tea and I drank 2 small cup. Only TWO and I can't believe it affected me the whole night. We came home and I didn't feel sleepy at all. I was wide awake until 3.30am! It's so frustrating.
As a result, I woke up really late ie 11 something. Hubby woke me up to let me know breakfast or brunch (if you like) was ready (where to find such husband??). I woke up to a really nice breakfast served before me (I love the eggs!).
After breakfast/brunch, we normally run some errands and do some shopping. Then if there's time, we will come home and just throw ourselves onto our lovely bed and just snore away. However, if it was after 3pm, we try not to as we would prefer to be able to sleep at night and not disrupt our normal sleeping routine. We didn't take our afternoon nap today, of course, plus I have to do my housework. So, off I went to do my cleaning, washing and vacuuming. Hubby went to play some basketball with friends and he came back to a clean and tidy house, a feeling he always loves!
Soon it was dinner time and our menu for dinner includes sweet and sour prawns. I've been craving for it for so long and was looking forward to it. I made white raddish soup with pork bones and cooked a vegetable dish. Hubby finally cooked my favourite dish and it really tasted as good as it looks!
After dinner, we normally proceed to the couch to watch TV. If there's something on we will watch them, else we will watch a movie instead if we rented them. Or like what I am doing now, I will just blog.
Hence, that conclude my typical Saturdays!
Wednesday, May 14
Finally!
It's so liberating to finally get my driver's licence. I have been driving for almost 4 yearrs in Sydney with my Malaysian's driver's licence and according to the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) of NSW, I have to get a local driver's licence after living for 3 months in the country. Not very law abiding, am I?
Taking the test itself is a nightmare. I failed once, and I was so nervous to re-take the test. Oh, and something happened regarding the driving test and I'm sure if I tell you, you will be mad at me.
My second test was initially scheduled on the 12th of May ie Monday. The night before I was preparing for the test and what to bring; driving test slip, check, driving test book, check, L licence, check, L plates, check, proof of address documentation, check, Malaysian's driver's licence translation, check. All prepared and set, I thought to myself. Next morning, hubby was so nice to accompany me to RTA. Test was on 8.30am and we were on time. Then, just before my name was called, I searched for my wallet.. opened my handbag, and I couldn't see my wallet!! I was frantically searching for it and started panicking. Deep inside, I knew I must have left it on the table when I double-checked my L licence the night before. I was apologizing profusely to the test instructor, and asked if I could quickly rush home to get it. She wouldn't proceed with the test without any proof of ID. So, just imagine the whole ordeal.. I almost felt like killing myself!
Finally, the test instructor (thank God, she's a nice lady) suggested that I re-book my test and discouraged rushing around otherwise, I will mess up all their schedule for the day. That left me with no choice really but to re-book. Hence I have to pay an extra 40 bucks to re-book the test. Then, my next fear was, the waiting period for the next available test. It normally takes about 3 weeks and I was dreading like crazy to drive 'illegally' again prior to the test. But guess what, God is good, praise the Lord. The next available test was the very next day!!! How awesome was that? Even the test instructor said I was lucky! I quickly booked the test for the next day and left RTA with mixed feelings.
I have an amazing husband. He did not utter a single angry word. The only mad person was me. But I remembered the ultimatum he gave me. With slight difficulty, I composed myself and tried not to be so affected by the incident. He noticed and praised me for that. Haha.. isn't that funny? Instead of giving me a piece of his mind, he praised me for keeping calm. So, it worked. I chose not to be affected by my own mistake, and forgave myself. But, having said these, I truly hope it served as good lesson and I will learn from this mistake.
So, the next day I took the test, and it all went smoothly. The test normally takes 45 mins to an hour (under new rules since end of 2007), but it only took me 30 minutes to complete everything. I am so glad that I finally got this chapter of my life closed. Feels so good to drive so freely now!!
Taking the test itself is a nightmare. I failed once, and I was so nervous to re-take the test. Oh, and something happened regarding the driving test and I'm sure if I tell you, you will be mad at me.
My second test was initially scheduled on the 12th of May ie Monday. The night before I was preparing for the test and what to bring; driving test slip, check, driving test book, check, L licence, check, L plates, check, proof of address documentation, check, Malaysian's driver's licence translation, check. All prepared and set, I thought to myself. Next morning, hubby was so nice to accompany me to RTA. Test was on 8.30am and we were on time. Then, just before my name was called, I searched for my wallet.. opened my handbag, and I couldn't see my wallet!! I was frantically searching for it and started panicking. Deep inside, I knew I must have left it on the table when I double-checked my L licence the night before. I was apologizing profusely to the test instructor, and asked if I could quickly rush home to get it. She wouldn't proceed with the test without any proof of ID. So, just imagine the whole ordeal.. I almost felt like killing myself!
Finally, the test instructor (thank God, she's a nice lady) suggested that I re-book my test and discouraged rushing around otherwise, I will mess up all their schedule for the day. That left me with no choice really but to re-book. Hence I have to pay an extra 40 bucks to re-book the test. Then, my next fear was, the waiting period for the next available test. It normally takes about 3 weeks and I was dreading like crazy to drive 'illegally' again prior to the test. But guess what, God is good, praise the Lord. The next available test was the very next day!!! How awesome was that? Even the test instructor said I was lucky! I quickly booked the test for the next day and left RTA with mixed feelings.
I have an amazing husband. He did not utter a single angry word. The only mad person was me. But I remembered the ultimatum he gave me. With slight difficulty, I composed myself and tried not to be so affected by the incident. He noticed and praised me for that. Haha.. isn't that funny? Instead of giving me a piece of his mind, he praised me for keeping calm. So, it worked. I chose not to be affected by my own mistake, and forgave myself. But, having said these, I truly hope it served as good lesson and I will learn from this mistake.
So, the next day I took the test, and it all went smoothly. The test normally takes 45 mins to an hour (under new rules since end of 2007), but it only took me 30 minutes to complete everything. I am so glad that I finally got this chapter of my life closed. Feels so good to drive so freely now!!
Friday, May 2
Anger management
I am an angry person as always dubbed by my husband as 'angry elf'. I'm not sure if I have been this way all my life or has it just gone worse over the years. My problem is I can react or respond aggresively when I'm angry or even sheer annoyance too can cause me behave that way. It seems like I'm a totally different person whenever anger evoked in me. Since I cannot lash out my anger at the problem in public, hence I redirect all my anger to hubby. My anger has in fact gone out of control and is turning destructive, leading to marriage problem. Thank goodness, hubby endured this problem of mine with lots of patience and has confronted me in dealing with anger before it's too late.
What makes me angry? Things such as ruined plans, unco-operative people, traffic jams, losing things of value and etc. I quote this from a website talking about controlling anger.
People who are easily angered generally have what some psychologists call a low
tolerance for frustration, meaning simply that they feel that they should not
have to be subjected to frustration, inconvenience, or annoyance. They can't
take things in stride, and they're particularly infuriated if the situation
seems somehow unjust: for example, being corrected for a minor mistake. What
makes these people this way? A number of things. One cause may be genetic or
physiological: There is evidence that some children are born irritable, touchy,
and easily angered, and that these signs are present from a very early age.
Another may be sociocultural. Anger is often regarded as negative; we're taught
that it's all right to express anxiety, depression, or other emotions but not to
express anger. As a result, we don't learn how to handle it or channel it
constructively. Research has also found that family background plays a role.
Typically, people who are easily angered come from families that are disruptive,
chaotic, and not skilled at emotional communications.
For my case, it definitely has to be family background, and guess what, my dad is a totally angry person and does not know how to express himself well. Hence, his anger is uncontrollable and often involves violence. Time and again, hubby always remind me of my dad when I'm angry, scary he says. If I don't like the way my dad is when he's angry, hubby can totally identify with that, as I'm placing him in the same situation. Speaking of which, my brother and my sister are all the same too, all angry people.
It's funny that the article also mentioned this:
Logic defeats anger,because anger, even when it's justified, can quickly become
irrational. So use cold hard logic on yourself. Remind yourself that the world
is "not out to get you," you're just experiencing some of the rough spots of
daily life. Do this each time you feel anger getting the best of you, and it'll
help you get a more balanced perspective.
So true! I'm not a good communicator, so when I'm angry, I don't get my reasoning across right. There was once (only once), when I shouted at hubby because I couldn't make him stop advising me. There he was trying to calm me down, and because I couldn't think logically, I just lost it. Whenever things go wrong, I keep telling myself, that God is unfair to me! Exactly the same line of thinking as though the world is out there to get me.
What got me to blog about anger management was something that happened recently until today. I lost my hubby's wedding band. How?? You must be asking, isn't your husband wearing the ring? To give you a little background to that whole ring issue, I will have to go as far back as to our wedding.
We were getting married, so of course every wedding or marriage needs a "symbol" to remind us of our love for each other. So we got the rings. Even then, problems already existed with the whole ring ordeal. Firstly, hubby knew it will be a hard time adjusting to wearing accessory daily. Secondly, we cannot decide on what colour ie gold or white gold. When he gave me the engagement ring, it was in gold because he said he would prefer a gold ring (all his brothers wear gold, so he wants to follow suit!) for the wedding band. Hence, I chose gold for the diamond ring so as to go with the wedding band later on. When the time came to choose the wedding band, we found out that he suits silver colour better ie white gold. I had to accept a white gold to go with my diamond ring so as to have a matching wedding band. An annoyance I had to bear. Thirdly, after the church ceremony, he announced to the world (during dinner reception) that he forgot to wear the wedding ring. Something I forgave easily as we were newly married, surely you are not use to wearing the ring yet. Fourthly, he shows you how 'important' the ring is by simply placing the ring everywhere, even to the extent that he left it on his desk at work. Then, as time passed, it's been 2 years since we got married, and I can count the number of times he wore the ring. Even then, I had to make him wear it. We eventually striked a deal, that I should allow him not to wear it on weekdays, and in return he will wear it on weekends (have you ever known of such couple doing this sort of bargaining?!).
Finally, I have had enough. If he's not wearing it, I will store it away and he will have a hard time looking for it. True enough, my words came to pass. I have since kept it somewhere, even I don't know where I kept it. It's been two days and we were both frantically searching for it but it's no where to be seen. Because of this, I have been moody and angry. I was searching for it, because I still want to keep it as my treasure, but he was searching for it not because of the ring, but knowing that it will cheer me up and make me happy again. He cannot tolerate me being so affected as it affects him deeply as well.
So really, what hubby said was true. In fact, there are many reasons why I didn't have to be angry over this matter. Reasons which I have just explained. I should just have a cognitive restructuring (as proposed by the website) that is to change my thinking over this ring. As much as it's a symbol, it's only still a symbol. What matters more is my husband, as he puts it, well and alive, beside me.
We have been so good for some time now, and he really treasures these happy times. In fact, I'm loving my husband more and more now. I will have to make a conscious effort to control my anger and to remind myself, being angry will not mend things. I wouldn't trade hubby for anyone. He is such a wonderful man. I pray that God will help me deal with my emotions. Please pray for me.
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