One Day at a Time

Live blogging || Pasar Besar Siti Khatijah

2012-01-22T13:18:00.001+08:00

Okay. The kids are tired, and cranky. Well, they already finished their shopping. I guess they take after me, totally not the shopping type. Gonna get some stuff from the wet market now. Can't wait to get back home. Not as many people as I thought here but still long hours of walking doesn't suit any of us.

Live blogging || KB for CNY

2012-01-22T11:16:00.001+08:00

It's been a while since our last trip back here. Thankfully the weather cleared up so we didn't have to worry about floods or torrential rain.
Now we are joining the throngs of people heading to KB. I need to buy a few things, hopefully there we'll be able to walk around without getting lost in the stampede.

Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt

2012-01-19T10:31:00.002+08:00

Basic plot

A story of a boy born in America but spent his childhood in extreme poverty in bleak, desolate Ireland with his poor mother, always drunk father and ever growing and depleting little siblings. During a time when a slice of bread was considered a luxury, baby brothers drank water with sugar and the whole lane traipses through your kitchen to dump their excrement in the one common toilet. Frank McCourt's daily life is merely a battle to survive, the dreaded consumption, thrashings from relatives who are angry when his family asks for scraps of food and a father with the Irish curse of drinking what little money he manages to earn.

What I liked about this story

The author is truly a storyteller. He paints the harsh reality of poverty in Ireland with clarity, but even through the bleak desperation there is a touch of sombre humour. I chuckled and cried through the very same pages. With every page I read, I was so invested in the plight of Frank McCourt that I willed for his circumstances to change, for his father to change, for their lives to get better. Reading this book, I could not imagine how all those poor families survived. It made me appreciate my own life, and its many small comforts.

What I disliked about this story

Not much really. It took me quite a while, given my schedule, to finish reading. I found that I tended to speed read the many Irish songs and poems though.

A quote I liked from the book

If I were in America I could say, I love you, Dad, the way they do in the films, but you can't say that in Limerick for fear you might be laughed at. You're allowed to say you love God and babies and horses that win but anything else is a softness in the head.

Rating: 4.5/5

Thanks to Siti for lending me this book as part of our Bookswap project.

Week 2 : #366photoproject

2012-01-16T10:14:00.000+08:00

First week of school || Lessons learned

2012-01-14T11:30:00.002+08:00

What a week it has been! My eldest son started school last week (yes, I AM that old). To be honest, I was probably more nervous about sending him to school than he was about going. The past week has taught me:

some things are inevitable- As much as I would love if my kids stayed as cute and innocent as they are right now, they have to and will grow up. The upside is that with each day and each change, comes new experiences to share and new memories to keep.

things that may seem scary to us MAY not be to them- I was worried that he would be nervous, being in a new school, with new friends, meeting his new teachers but Yousof took it all in his stride. Though, to make his transition easier, I did make sure that I waited until he was settled in class, I looked in on him during lunch (his school ends at 3pm) and I am always already waiting to pick him up at the end of the day. I am thankful that his days at Educare IIUM taught him to get on well with his adults and his peers.

even though we think they're not ready, the only way to know is to let them try- I was apprehensive about letting him go to school by bus. I could not imagine letting him step onto the bus and not knowing for sure that he arrived at school safely each day. In the end, I made sure to choose a trusted bus company, I spoke to the driver personally, and got good recommendations from other parents. I explained to him why he is taking the bus, how to ride the bus safely and how to get off the bus safely. So in the mornings when the bus stops in front of my house and I send him up those steps, I take comfort in the fact that he is learning to be independent, slowly but surely.

the perfect mix of down time and study time is a balancing act- When he comes home from school, he is tired from a whole day of concentrating and learning new things, an amazing feat for kids who averagely have short attention spans. So I let him take a nap, watch TV and have a snack. After dinner, we sit down as a family to go over his homework or do exercises. Not a simple feat with 2 younger siblings not in school. But I try to make it easier by making sure dinner ends early, as little distractions as possible (no TV after Maghrib) and a proper place to study (small table and chairs for each of them). In order to make sure that Yousof does not feel like studying is a boring thing that only he has to endure, I also prepare age appropriate "study" like activities for his 4 & 2 year old siblings (mostly colouring, drawing or some simple word exercises).

not everything new is good- The only downside of school is that there will always be some kid who makes it less fun for others. In Yousof's case, it is a boy in his class who likes to call him Utop or Yousof Tayyoub (after the famous Ramadhan kurma ad). I was upset to hear this but I tried not to over-react. Some friends suggested that I should confront the kid and his parents, but as of now I have decided to take a less confrontational approach. We are after all talking about another 7 year old child here. However, I sat Yousof down and told him that if the boy persists, for him to tell the boy firmly to stop and ignore him, instead make friends with the other kids in his class. So far, I have learned that this boy is getting on a lot of people's nerves including the teachers'. I am going to keep a close eye on the situation, and if it warrants, my next step will be to inform his class teacher, so she is aware of my concern and can monitor the situation. Even though, I cannot shelter the kids from everything and everyone, I can try to make sure that I can reduce the possible trauma.

I never thought that when the time came to send off my first child to school, that it would be under the current circumstances. I do worry that, my kids may be at a disadvantage because of their family situation but at least they have parents who love them and a very supportive extended family. So, even though life keeps changing, and I cannot control every single thing that happens, I am hopeful and excited (though sometimes nervous) to see what the future will bring.

*This post will also be available on www.mombloggersplanet.com soon InsyaAllah.

Week 1: #366photoproject

2012-01-09T11:51:00.002+08:00

My dad's birthday

Really window-shopping

Last day of being just a kid

First day of school

Transportation woes

A quiet weekend

Keeping it cool

Yousof's first day of school

2012-01-06T12:04:00.000+08:00

OoopS! Shirt should be untucked

Well, it has finally happened. I am officially old. Last Wednesday, I sent my eldest son to his first day of school. I must admit, I was probably more worried than he was. Although, in my defense, I have already survived school so I know there are many things to worry about. Yousof was just excited to start on his new adventure. I am blessed with kids who adjust and adapt to new situations quickly.

Couldn't even wait to take off the plastic wrap. Extra pull out bed for Aishah coz her room doubles as a guest room.

So, on the big morning, I woke up quite early after a night of tossing and turning. My parents were already up and getting ready to head back to KL (they usually head out right after Fajr prayer so they can get to work on time). Yousof woke up on his own after his first night sleeping in the top bunk of the boys' new bunk bed. Aishah & Hamzah also woke up a lot easier than normal. I even managed to pack food for everyone to bring to school.

We arrived early and found our way to Yousof's classroom. After filling out forms and whatnot, I had to leave him for a few minutes to send the other 2 to "school". I came back in time to see them perform solat and eat. Obviously, some kids were adjusting better than others. I saw quite a few crying and refusing to get into class. Some did not know how to eat their lunch since it was served on a tray to be shared with friends. Many of the kids were having fun though, walking hand in hand with their friends and answering their teachers enthusiastically.

InsyaAllah, Yousof will settle in well. He had a good first and second day. He came back with a lot of stories and seemed to enjoy himself. He was, of course, exhausted and slept until 6pm.

This school may not be as well equipped as I would like but the curriculum has a few extra things that I hope will help to shape my son to be a good person. I am unable to give him the best guidance on many things, so hopefully, we will learn together.

PR: perhimpunan, AD: Akidah, BI, TJ: tulisan jawi, BM, FQ: Fiqh, AH: akhlak, BA: bahasa Arab, M3: maths, TZ: tazkirah, MM: mentor mentee, PJ1: pend jasmani, SR: sirah, SN: sains, AQ: Al-Quran, HQ: Halaqah

My hope is for him to love knowledge, learn well and become a good and well rounded person with strong foundations in Islam. Everything else is a bonus :)

#366photoproject

2012-01-03T12:04:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year! Am hoping that the new year will be much better than the last. Just a little mention of a small new project I decided to (try) do this year. Inspired by my twitter/Instagram friend Khalilah, I decided to embark on #366photoproject. Basically, it's taking a photo a day for the whole year. Since I started tweeting/Instagramming, I 've enjoyed snapping pictures of my everyday life. So, here are the 1st 3 days of the year.

My father, my hero

Just looking

Last day of just being a kid

My photos will not be of breathtaking scenery in a foreign country nor will they be beautiful artsy expressions to contemplate, they will simply be a reflection of my everyday life.

Anyone care to join me ?

PS: Daily #366photoposts on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook, I will only post weekly summaries on this blog :)

The Jane Austen Book Club by karen Joy Fowler

2011-12-30T11:37:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

A group of Jane Austen book lovers gather together to discuss her works and in the process find that life is not as straightforward as Miss Austen wrote it to be. If only though, it was. Jocelyn, Sylvia, Prudie, Allegra, Bernadette and Grigg do not really have alot in common with each other other than their taste in books but they find their monthly gatherings a welcome respite from their own complicated lives.

What I liked about this book

The characters have very interesting lives which serve as sub-plots to the story. The quaint and quirky flashbacks through their lives in essence are more the core of the book than the actual book club itself. The reader is able to understand how each character became the person they area and how different their personal perspectives are on Miss Austen and life in general. The concise summary of all of Jane Austen's books which are mentioned found at the back of the book was very helpful, especially for someone like my since I have only read Miss Austen's Pride & Prejudice and Sense & Sensibility.

What I disliked about the book

I would have to say, the actual book club discussions themselves. Strangely enough, people discussing books does not a fascinating read make. It also bugged me that I could not gauge how old these people actually were and had no way of matching them to the people on the cover which depicted the actors from the movie (based on the book) even after finishing the book. Perhaps that was not the book's fault ;)

A quote I liked from the book

She closed her eyes, which made them disappear but not usefully so.

And since it is a Jane Austen book club:

"The mere habit of learning to love is the thing."- Jane Austen 1775-1817

Rating: 3.5

Visiting Baby Sarah

2011-12-27T10:42:00.000+08:00

Last Sunday, I dropped by to see my good friend Hanim and her new baby, Sarah. It was my first time at their gorgeous home and first time meeting the rest of her family too. We had a nice time just chatting away and munching on delicious chicken pies and cupcakes. I can't wait to bring my kids along for a play-date next time. *Hint* Hint* (Fishing for another invite haha).

Cik Jil & Karido - The love story

2011-12-25T20:38:00.000+08:00

Last Friday night ... (no this is not the Katy Perry song) ... a dear friend got married. Even though, I have only known her for less than 3 years, Zil is of course one of the UKM Wondergirls. A little nickname I coined for the small group of postgrad students studying with me at UKM (Still in present tense since I have yet to go for my viva). As a group we've not only spent a lot of time with each other (most of it eating..hehe) but we've also been through tough times together, so I consider each one of them my sisters.

The first time we heard about Khalid ... we found out that Zil was not single and not available. Khalid was far away though, in Japan. So mostly Khalid or Karido as we liked to call him was merely a name on Zil's lips and a smile each time she opened her laptop.

The first time we met Khalid ... he dropped by with Zil at one of our lunch outings at Ani Sup Utara. That time, H1N1 was rampant so he was wearing a face mask. Truly a strange way to be introduced to a group of talkative women. Understandably he didn't talk much.

The first time we really got to know Khalid ... was at their engagement ceremony. He was so friendly and cheerful (of course) that day. Joking with all of us. Yup, Khalid was one of us now. He was bound by promise to our Zil.

And so, on 23/12/11 (also Khalid's birthday- smart move, so he will never forget) ..we saw our beautiful sister Zil transform into a ravishing princess and married to her Prince Charming. They will make a wonderful couple, Zil with her beauty and kind heart, with Khalid who is truly a really nice guy. I wish them all the best.

Congratulations Zil & Khalid. May your lives be filled with love ever after.

Unions and reunions

2011-12-22T12:47:00.000+08:00

Earlier this month my friend from med school Dilla got married. It was a gorgeous event held at Dewan Jubli Perak Kuantan. The bride and groom were ravishing and the food was great. Everybody looked really happy especially all her friends. It was a sort of mini reunion for us since it has been a long time since that many of us had been able to gather in the same place at the same time. I think we took more pictures of ourselves than of the happy couple. So if any of the other guests were wondering what all the hullabaloo was about, it was just a bunch of 30(+) year old doctors remembering the joys of friendship and being 20 again. Hehe.

I think only after 20+ pictures somebody had the smart idea to have the wedding/stage as a backdrop instead of the curtains haha.

Congratulations to Dilla & Redha.

May your lives be filled with joy, laughter and love.

PS: It was great seeing all of you. I have missed you all very much. Hope we'll all get a chance to get together again soon.

All pics credited to Ayeen :)

The Lights of Alborada by Gianni Riotta

2011-12-14T11:36:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

Nino Manes escaped his prisoner of war camp in Texas to reach his village in Italy. He had a wedding to stop. Clutching a letter from his sweetheart telling him that she intends to wed their English teacher in forty days time, he risks his life to prevent this. After all, what is life without love? Joined by the unlikeliest of traveling companions, a fake American lieutenant and a waif-like prostitute, his impossible quest is fraught with daring escapes from Military Police, bounty hunters, land mines and even ferocious wild beasts.

What I liked about this story

I must admit that reading the synopsis made me buy the book. The die-hard romantic in me could not resist such a tragic story of enduring true love. The author has a lovely way of describing people, places and emotions that verges on poetic. The characters are likeable, especially the enigmatic and charming lieutenant.

What I disliked about this story

As with most authors who dwell on descriptions, sometimes, the pace of the book fell short, slightly dragging it's heels. I was also not keen as to the fate of the characters, personally, I would have taken the story in another direction.

A quote I liked from this book

The daring route that lets you overtake yourself when you have lost your past, and accept rebirth in life's uncertainty. Humble and close to those around you.

Rating: 3.5

Bye bye Birdie

2011-12-12T11:48:00.000+08:00

Before the BIG snip (with Usu)

It's been a rough week. Last Sunday my eldest son, Yousof went for circumcision. At six years old he was one of the younger ones there. When we arrived at Klinik Al-Amin, he was given number 70 (the last one for the day). As we waited for his turn, I think I was more nervous than him. When I asked him if he was worried he replied "Tak takut sebab Upin & Ipin kata macam kena gigit kerengga je (I'm not scared because Upin & Ipin [cartoon characters] said it's just like an ant bite)". When it was his turn, he bravely went in by himself (no parents allowed) and came out 15 minutes later smiling. He said he didn't feel anything and just kept his eyes closed the whole time.

Didn't hurt at all

It was only later in the car ride home that he started to feel the pain. This was because the local anaesthetic that they had given had worn off and the painkiller that he took had not set in yet. That evening and throughout the night, I felt more helpless than I have ever felt. It was heart-breaking to see him in pain. I had done all I could to ease his pain including adding another analgesic but being a child, the pain continued to bother him. So I simply stayed by his side, comforting him and coaxing him to sleep. Toilet trips and dressing the wound was a nightmare too. For the first 3 days the swelling at his glans penis (front part) was very obvious and did not recede. By the 4th day the swelling subsided but was replaced by a black discolouration of the whole area. With very minimal experience in wound healing after such a procedure I consulted my lecturers (Dr Emad, Dr Saad, Mr Salleh), also getting input from my parents, Dr Wahab and even went to visit the clinic again. Finally, I am reassured that this whole traumatic experience is just part of the healing process.

NOW it hurts!

I have learned two very important lessons throughout this. Firstly, there is nothing worse than seeing your child in pain (worse yet when you are the one who has to grit your teeth and inflict the pain - cleaning/dressing the wound properly so it does not get infected). Secondly, as a doctor (or anyone with a medical background), it can sometimes be difficult to be truly objective with the ones we love. It is easy to be either of 2 extremes, too complacent or too anxious. We tend to miss things or let them pass because we think we've seen worse or we know exactly what is going on, or we tend to over-analyze and jump straight to morbid worse case scenarios because of all the things we've learned and seen.

I am thankful to so many people for helping me get through this week, frazzled but sane. To my brother Izzat, my sis-in-law Zila & Umairah- thank you for coming down to Kuantan and giving us moral support that weekend. To Mr Salleh, Dr Emad, Dr Saad, Dr Wahab and Dr Naznin- thank you for your input and much needed second opinions. To Dr Norsidah & Dr Yusoff- thank you for lightening my load by covering for me at the Kulliyyah. To my parents- thank you for coming to Kuantan and always being there to support me when I need you the most.

I am hopeful that when it's Hamzah's turn, it will be plain sailing.

My turn next?

A family weekend

2011-11-29T15:37:00.000+08:00

What did you guys get up to over the long weekend? My parents and my brother came down to Kuantan and we had a really lovely time. My brother, his wife and his daughter are over in Peninsula Malaysia for a couple of weeks for a holiday (SCHOOL holidays!), so the kids got to spend time with their cute little cousin.

On Saturday, everybody headed of to the Kulliyyah of Science Auditorium. It was a big day. Yousof's Graduation Ceremony. Yup, my six year old got to get up on stage and receive a scroll before I did. It was a bit of a rush getting everyone ready and out of the door that I forgot to bring the most important thing of all, my phone. I was a bit a crushed because I was unable to tweet or instagram the event live but it was too late to go back home to get it. Thankfully, my brother brought his compact digital camera so I did manage to snap a few pictures. Unfortunately, he did not bring the cable and I do not own a memory card reader so we weren't able to transfer the pictures. So the ones I have are pictures of the official pictures the kids had taken and pictures "borrowed" from other people's FBs. InsyaAllah will post the other pics later. Of course, no trip to Kuantan is complete without a trip to Ani Ikan Bakar Petai, so that night we had a scrumptious dinner there despite the many issues with service. Not many pictures there either, I was too busy eating hehe.

On Sunday, we planned to go to Gambang water park because the weather was still nice and sunny. Unfortunately about a few thousand other people had the same idea. After being stuck in a 3 km crawl, we got there only to find people had been waiting hours just to even get a ticket. In the end we ended up in Teluk Chempedak, where the kids had a great time under the scorching sun.

On Monday we took a trip to Pekan and had a short tour of the town, stopping at the Pekan Jeti. Not many pictures here because Hamzah decided that this was the perfect moment to fall fast asleep. So I had to babysit him while the other took a short stroll.

All in all it was an amazing weekend because we just spent some good quality family time. Everybody has already left for KL today, so it's back to the normal routine for us. I am so very thankful for my family, even though we live apart, I hope that we are always close at heart.

Twilight Eyes by Dean Koontz

2011-11-24T12:06:00.001+08:00

Basic plot

Slim MacKenzie may be only 17 years old but he is no ordinary teenager. For one thing, Slim MacKenzie is not even his real name. The world as seen through his twilight eyes is far different than that seen by "normal" people because Slim is not normal. Blessed with the gift of premonition, he is also cursed. Not only can he sense the gory fates of those around him, Slim can also see the evil that lies beneath. Slim can see goblins. Murderous, evil, vile creatures that to anyone else might look like his Uncle Denton, the town sheriff or that cute girl next door. What does a boy do when he seems to be the only only one who can see demons who are out to destroy the human race? Run away and join the carnival, of course, where at least, the freaks are real.

What I liked about this book

Firstly, this book is in no way related to the more famous "Twilight" series. Dean Koontz does have a vivid imagination when it comes to the macabre. The story of how evil can live and passed unnoticed was intricately developed. The second half of the book was a lot more enjoyable due to it's faster pace and had a much better sense of direction. Strangely, the quirky afterword by the author was also one of my favourite parts of the book.

What I disliked about this book

The first half of the book was a bit slow for me. It was of course necessary to tell the background story, introduce the characters and their motivations but the book did not really get into gear until the second half. I am glad that I ploughed through it. Perhaps, if he had condensed the first half into 1 or 2 chapters and quickly jumped into the second half, this would be a far more favourable review.

A quote I liked from the book

You travel light when you're wanted for murder. The only heavy things you carry are memories, fear and loneliness.

Rating: 3/5

Writing, eating and driving

2011-11-18T10:26:00.000+08:00

I just came back from a 2 day Scientific Writing workshop held at the Grand Seasons Hotel by the Pharmacology Department, UKM. It was great to be able to see all the post-graduates again. The two days were quite eventful even though not many papers were actually submitted by the end of the workshop.

Although everybody came with their journal drafts, 2 days was not enough to get the papers publication ready. Though it was a great chance to have uninterrupted and focused time in front of the computer. Hopefully for those of us who did not manage to submit papers, we will manage to do so in the next month.

The other highlight was (of course) the food. Although, I have to say that the morning and evening tea dishes were not what I expected from such a big hotel (nuggets?). All the food was nice (especially since it was free), with the second day's lunch buffet far surpassing the first.

It was also a time for car trouble as my Mum's Satria went beserk when the horn refused to stop blaring continuously unless I twisted the ignition key. Imagine driving with only my left hand, manouvering the 5 levels of multilevel-parking (those ramp turns were murder) and parking the car, with only one hand. My dear friend Sharlina had much bigger car trouble as sadly she met with a rough fender-bender whilst on the way to the hotel.

One good car event did take place though, finally, my Stream is home.

The Nanny Diaries by Emma McLaughlin & Nicola Kraus

2011-11-12T11:21:00.001+08:00

Basic plot

"Nanny" is a NYU senior who loves working with children and when she lands a part-time job as nanny to 4 year old Grayer, it seems like a perfect fit. What she didn't count on was that her job description would include basically parenting Grayer and being at the beck and call of his frigid, uptight, snobby and constantly busy-with -doing-nothing mother Mrs X. She soon finds out despite sacrificing her time, patience and sanity to care for their son, she is in fact almost invisible and dispensable to both Mrs X and the often absent Mr X. Even nannies have a tipping point, don't they?

What I liked about the book

First of all, I have actually seen bits and pieces of the movie starring Scarlett Johansson. When I saw that this book was less then RM 10 at BookXcess, I added it to my basket. It was quite a good read, humorous in a modern slightly cynical way. I enjoyed reading the unbelievable situations that Nanny often found herself in. The idea of naming the main characters Nanny, Mr X and Mrs X even, H.H (Harvard Hottie who lives on the 11th floor) is very original and quaint. The way the main characters uses her intelligence to tackle her little charge is often heartwarming and the bond between them genuinely speaks to the reader. The authors managed to capture the chaos of juggling too many tasks, an inconsiderate employer, living in the big city and struggling to find the boundaries of being involved in the lives of strangers exceptionally well.

What I disliked about the book

At times, I felt as if the scenarios were a bit contrived. I found that supporting characters (other than Nanny, Mrs X, Grayer) appeared slightly one-dimensional at times, even the main love interest. I think this is probably one of those rare cases where the book came more alive in the hands of a good screenwriter.

A quote I liked from the book

Raising your child is hard work! Which you would know if you ever did it for more than five minutes at a time!

Rating: 3.5/5

Room by Emma Donoghue

2011-11-10T11:35:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

Jack's world seems small now that he is 5 years old. As it should since his world only measures 11 feet by 11 feet. The only people who are real are Jack, his Ma and Old Nick who comes once in a while to make the bed creak. Jack isn't even sure if Old Nick is real since his Ma makes him hide in Wardrobe every time the man shows up. Trees, people, dogs and aeroplanes are only on TV like Dora and Bob the Builder. Soon, Jack learns that the world is much bigger than he imagined and the reason why his Ma is too sad to play sometimes. Outside does exist, the problem is, how do they escape the Room?

What I liked about this book

This book was a gift from my good friend Dr Yati (a dedicated supporter of this book experiment). Just reading the blurb on the back had me hooked. The story is told very simply and honestly, an innocent's child view of a horror beyond comprehension. The reader sees life through his untainted eyes as he slowly pieces together that the life he has known since birth is a prison built by a monster in human form. I found myself rooting for Jack and his Ma throughout the story, teetering between tears and laughter at Jack's perspectives, new discoveries and adventures. Most of all, I liked the fact that the book finished as it did, to give the readers a sense of journey and closure. One of the best books I have read in a long time. Thank you Yati.

What I disliked about this book

There is not much to dislike about this book except it would have given me immense satisfaction if the villain had been dealt with in a more deserving way (read: castration, tortured etc). Even so, this does not detract from the story at all.

A quote I liked from the book

He reminds me of nothing but himself.

Rating: 4.5/5

As the crow flies by Jeffrey Archer

2011-11-08T10:18:00.001+08:00

Basic plot

Charlie Trumper was born and raised, a barrow boy from the East End. Wanting nothing more than to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, he soon finds that life is more than about selling fruit and vegetables on the corner. When the world finds itself at war, Charlie is compelled to be at the front-line where he meets Guy Trentham who would later become the bane of his existence. Charlie returns to the East End to fulfill his grandfather's dream of owning a shop that sells everything. With the help of Becky Salmon, the annoying baker's daughter who grew up to be the love of his life, Charlie proves that determination and honest hard-work makes any dream achievable.

What I liked about this story

Jeffrey Archer has an incredible ability to write stories that span decades and yet allows the reader to walk with his characters every step of the way. Character development was superb in both the solid main characters and the colourful supporting cast. The storyline flowed smoothly even with the multi-person self narratives thrown in at the beginning of each section, which so often in other books leads to confusion and interruptions to the story. A very good read indeed.

What I disliked about the story

As with most books that I enjoy, I would have liked to add my own tweaks to the plot. Perhaps a happier ending, or a more satisfactorily gory fate for the villain. This is in no way a critique since, for me to feel like I want to change the story shows the extent of my investment in these fictional characters. Thus said, I still think the ending could have been little different.

A quote I like from the book

It seems to begin with no one was willing to admit I belonged to anyone.

Rating: 4.5/5

Music Mondays #17: Emotion by The Bee Gees

2011-11-07T16:12:00.002+08:00

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Hari Raya & Sacrifice

2011-11-06T07:41:00.000+08:00

Miles apart but always in my heart.

I have done many things that I am not proud of in my life (and some that I am downright ashamed of). On this blessed day, I ask for forgiveness from those I have wronged and Mercy from Allah s.w.t. Keep me on Your path and if I am weak, give me strength. If I stray, give me guidance. Help me remember my blessings and good fortune so that I do not forget to be thankful. Truly, there is no sacrifice bigger than those we make for the ones we love. Selamat Hari Raya.

Standard 1 entrance exam- Irsyad

2011-11-01T11:24:00.001+08:00

Night before- not nervous at all

Last Sunday, Yousof went to his first ever interview. It was for the Standard 1 entrance exam at Sekolah Agama Irsyad. He was, of course, totally relaxed about it. Since Educare IIUM doesn't have a standardized test system like other kindergartens, he did not really grasp the concept of exams yet.

On the way there- still not nervous

I was nervous. Not because I am adamant about him attending this school, but simply because all tests give me butterflies. As for the school, if he does get accepted, it will be good for him to have solid foundations in Islamic knowledge as well as regular academic pursuits. If he does not get accepted, he can still be his best at a regular government school. Most important is good support and encouragement.

Finally here- slightly nervous

The school itself looked pretty much like any other regular primary school. To be honest, when I heard it was a private school, I was imagining more of an International School vibe with state of the art facilities. It is not. I guess, Islamic private schools have a tendency to be even more run-down compared to other schools. However, it was not shabby, or a horror story like most would believe. It seemed alot like my old school.

He was the first student called out for the oral test. From my vantage point outside the classroom, I saw that he was able to answer the teacher's questions, and read the papers he was given. They quizzed him in Malay, English and basic Arabic. The written exam also included Mathematics.

Interview -Nervous!

He was very happy with himself after finishing. So, I am happy for him. Whichever school he goes to, I hope he can be the best and achieve his full potential InsyaAllah.

October babies, kiwis & discussions

2011-10-27T15:07:00.000+08:00

How many kids does it take to make a bed?

It's been a packed and eventful day so far. We started the morning with the kids taking an active role in helping me to keep the house as neat and tidy as possible. Since it is essentially our first day back on our own. Hopefully, we'll be able (read: I will be able) to manage without too much trouble for the time being.

He didn't want Ben 10!

Just before heading off for school, a very special delivery arrived. It was Yousof's moist chocolate cake for the IIUM Educare, October babies birthday celebration. It looked awesome, though sadly I won't be able to taste it since he will only be slicing the cake at school. Thanks to Zaireen from D'Bak Sensations :)

Wait for it...

Educare birthday celebration. Photo from Tengku Nahdatul Azlin's FB.

The kids were all dressed in their New Zealand t-shirts courtesy of TokWan and TokKi's recent trip. Hopefully one day, we'll all get to go there to see the amazing scenery for ourselves. Their holiday photos looked incredible.

WE LOVE NEW ZEALAND

Today, I substituted for another lecturer for a Y2 Case Discussion. To be honest, this was my first time conducting one or even participating in one since we never had a slot for Case Discussions when I was in medical school. It was essentially discussing certain important and relevant points based on a given scenario. Today's topic was "Cardivascular response to exercise". A purely physiological discussion. Gulp. Many of the details, I had not read in over 10 years. Thank God for good basics. Though I was even luckier to get a group that was very well prepared. They discussed the topics very well and hardly missed a step even when I asked them to utilize the whiteboard to explain their answers. Basically, they taught themselves with a little nudge from me. If they continue at that level, I have no worries that they will do well in their upcoming End Block Exam.

They said they take pictures with their lecturers after every session. Pulling my leg?? Hehe

The morning was rounded off with a seminar on Birth and postnatal care. I can only imagine what these pre-clinical students felt when watching the birthing videos. Truly, giving birth to another human being is an extraordinary event. Allah in His Wisdom made women strong enough not only to survive childbirth but to then be able to nurture a baby into adulthood. Hopefully, I was able to impart some of my personal experiences (mother of three, hello) to them. It always amazes me how quickly a beautiful, healthy baby can make us forget excruciating pain. Even before they experience firsthand the wonders of having their own children, they will soon be able to take part in this miracle of life when they step foot in the labour room. One of my favourite postings both during medical school and housemanship was O&G. It's a grand feeling to help bring beautiful babies into this world.

Hopefully the second half of the day will be as productive and stimulating.

Divisadero by Michael Ondaatje

2011-10-26T10:42:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

Anna, Claire and Coop live on a farm in Northern California with their stern no-nonsense father. Their family is not like anyone else as none of them are actually related. Tragedy brought them together and tragedy drove them apart. Though, the trouble with family is, no matter how much distance and time passes, nothing can make them forget.

What I liked about this book

The language is definitely beautiful. Each character and scene painted with the a deft hand and vivid colours.

What I disliked about the book

Personally, I think the book lacks continuity and fluidity that could have made it incredible. I found it difficult to relate to the main characters and their journeys especially after they separated from each other. Perhaps, it was beauty over substance.

A quote I liked from the book

We have become unintelligible in our secrets, governed by our previous selves.

Rating: 3/5

Lies and secret babies

2011-10-24T08:05:00.000+08:00

I had to send my maid back yesterday. After 2 wonderful months of having someone help me around the house with the housework so I could spend more time with the kids, tragedy struck. I found out that she was almost 6 months pregnant. Unbelievable! Seems that when she came to work for us, she was already 3 months pregnant but for some unfathomable reason, she thought that it would not be detected.

It is true what they say, you can never see something if your brain does not think it. The thought of someone hiding a pregnancy never crossed my mind and therefore I was totally blindsided. It was quite a shock to me when the FOMEMA panel approved doctor called me into her clinic to inform me.

There were no big fireworks (though I was pretty upset- mostly because of the betrayal and the thought of having to do everything by myself again but all tears were shed alone- I refused to cry or get angry in front of her), I did not quiz her as to why she knowingly came here even though she was with child or why she was begging me not to tell her family back home. Why and how she became pregnant is none of my business, that is between her, her family and Allah.

My parents were even more forgiving than me. My father said, we have to just accept this unfortunate news as fate. There was no point in being angry, despite the substantial amount of money we had spent. He also reminded me that people in poverty can do such things as acts of desperation and we cannot judge her since we are fortunate enough not to be in her situation.

She was a hard-worker and her help was invaluable. For this, I am very sad to lose her. However, I had no choice but to send her back immediately since FOMEMA would never approve a pregnant maid and I could not risk anything happen to her or her unborn child while under my roof.

So for now, it will just be us again. Ya Allah give me strength to do the best I can for my children. Amin.

So THIS is the East Coast Mall

2011-10-18T10:07:00.002+08:00

Off to paint Kuantan RED

I've been in Kuantan for almost 4 months now but sadly, I have not had the chance to explore much of it. Until very recently, the only places I have been to includes work, home and Giant. So last weekend, I decided to finally see a little more of this city.

With a hand-drawn map in one hand courtesy of my colleague, we set of to find the East Coast Mall. It is the biggest shopping mall that Kuantan has to offer. My first thoughts upon entering the large building was, "no wonder everybody has been telling me to go". It had the usual mall offerings, shops (I didn't get to survey properly but there seemed to be a good selection), eateries (Black Canyon, Chicken Rice Shop, KFC, Pizza Hut Baskin Robbins, Starbucks, Rotiboy) and a decent sized Parkson. Parking is quite cheap (RM1 per entry on weekdays and RM 2 on weekends).

I wanna go home and play

We made a beeline straight for Parkson. I wanted to buy the kids some toys. It was Yousof's birthday recently but as any parent knows, you can't walk into a toy section with 3 kids and come out with 1 toy. Impossible.

We chose some great (yet affordable), stimulating toys. A basic Lego set, a 60 piece puzzle set and a Snakes & Ladders board game. So armed with a "present" each, my kids were grinning from ear to ear. Lunch was at the Chicken Rice Shop since I was trying to stay away from fast food (they've had their quota for this month) and we stopped by Big Apple to buy a box of doughnuts for tea.

The kids enjoyed their simple toys immensely and I was so glad. The next day, we went shopping for groceries and the kids had a playdate to share their new toys. It was a nice weekend.

Doughnuts to end the day

Music Mondays #16: It must have been love by Roxette

2011-10-17T10:30:00.000+08:00

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

First encounter - My first PBL session

2011-10-13T10:25:00.000+08:00

Ever since I reported for duty 2 months ago, I have not actually had much contact with the students. This is because, I am sort of in "no man's land" while waiting for my Masters viva and subsequently registering for my PhD. Therefore, I am almost an anonymous entity walking the corridors of IIUM Kuantan campus sans the spooky music and levitating, of course.

Yesterday however, I had my very first encounter with actual students. I was asked to stand in as a last minute replacement to handle a PBL (problem based learning) session for the 2nd Year Medical Students. PBLs are part of the medical syllabus where small groups of students are given a clinical scenario and problems which they have to discuss and subsequently reach a diagnosis. PBLs are an interactive and interesting way to encourage good thought process, correlate lectures with real situations and also hone presentation skills. I spent the morning refreshing my memory going over the case and making sure that my basic knowledge was up to par (we all get a bit rusty at times, usually by the time we graduate, work and further our studies, the minute details we learned ten years ago are not as fresh in our minds as they are in those of students who just heard that lecture a few days ago).

The students were surprised to see me, probably because they had no idea who I was. I broke the ice by introducing myself and telling them that I too was literally once in their shoes. In fact since they are currently the 14th batch of IIUM medical students, I am exactly 10 years their senior (gosh! I feel so old). I also came armed with a bribe, sweets to be used only in emergencies such as an irrepressible urge to fall asleep.

Initially, they were very timid but after a while, they started coming out of their shells, asking questions to each other and me. I tried to tie in what we were learning with real situations I had faced before in the hospital when dealing with patients, not only to make the session more interesting but to show that stuff we learn in a little room on an overcast Wednesday afternoon can actually serve them well when they become doctors themselves. So instead of just a straightforward and mundane series of presentations, we had demonstrations, questions, anecdotes, lame jokes (mostly from me) and all in all a good learning experience.

I ended the session by telling them how much I used to enjoy my PBLs when I was a medical student because I was fortunate enough to have a great group, great lecturers and we fully utilized our PBLs by making them as interactive, informative and even fun as we could.

I hope the students had as beneficial a session as I did. Maybe I am a bit more unconventional then they are used to, hopefully I didn't scare them haha. Am looking forward to next week. I wonder how they will feel when they see that it's me again ;)

Happy Birthday Yousof!

2011-10-11T12:51:00.000+08:00

6 years old today

My first born child. A sensitive, caring, smart, kind, loving, good boy. A patient elder brother to his siblings. He always knows when I am sad and is happiest when I am happy. May you grow up to be the best that you can be.

Love,

Ummi

Music Mondays #15: Runaway by The Corrs

2011-10-10T13:17:00.000+08:00

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Green thumbs

2011-10-08T17:42:00.001+08:00

We're fortunate enough to own a house with a little patch of land, but unfortunately, I have yet to get anything to grow on it besides grass (and weeds of course). Since my parents are in Kuantan for the weekend, it was the perfect opportunity to right this wrong. So, early this morning we set off in search for some trees and flowers to help brighten up our little garden.

I left all the decisions and designing to my father, he is a landscape architect by profession after all. I love looking at other people's well kept gardens but am hopeless at picking out trees suited to the climate or imagining how different shrubs can be organized to make a garden look amazing.

Hamzah with the nursery owner

The kids were excited. They loved helping out their grandfather to clear the garden. After a short trip to several nearby nurseries, we came back home with a car full of plants, grass and dirt. The kids insisted that the trees be planted right away and enjoyed planting each one. We all know how much kids love playing with dirt don't we?

Our first tree!

Hopefully the garden will grow, the trees flourish and the flowers bloom. Just a few plants for now, but slowly, with adequate nurturing and care, anything can become something beautiful.

How will I know ? by Sheila O'Flanagan

2011-10-05T10:37:00.002+08:00

Basic plot

Claire and Bill Hudson have been soulmates since they were 5 years old . They went through life together, loved each other and planned to spend the rest of their lives together. Their daughter Georgia completed the almost fairy-tale picture of perfect happiness. That is until, a tragic accident leaves Claire and Georgia alone without the most important man in their lives. Years later, Claire is still trying to cope, to forget, to live but is at a loss when her now teenage daughter asks her for advice on boys. Her relationship with Bill had been simple and straightforward, she knows nothing about dating and the usual teenage angst. Claire decides to take a radical approach by throwing herself into the strange world of dating, all in the name of research of course, in order to better answer her young daughter's queries. What results is a funny string of events involving blind dates, David Beckham look-alikes and grumpy gardeners.

What I liked about this book

I have often stressed that I am not a fan of chick lit. However, since I have previously read Ms O'Flanagan's book (Isobel's Wedding), I knew that her books were not run of the mill fluffy female fodder. This book was sweet, funny and very heartwarming. The supporting characters were also very interesting and added colour to the story. It was a very pleasant read.

What I disliked about this book

In some instances, I felt Claire was slightly one-dimensional compared to the other people around her, which was strange as she was the main character. I wished that I could have empathized with her more, perhaps had a stronger sense of her relationship with Bill who also could have used more layers. I would have preferred the story to focus more on them and Georgia's relationship with her father plus the subsequent dating experiments as opposed to frequent trips to address the best friend's marriage troubles.

A quote I liked from the book

The nice men are ugly. The handsome men are not nice. The handsome and nice men are gay. The handsome, nice and heterosexual men are married. The men who are not so handsome, but are nice men, have no money. The men who are not so handsome, but are nice men with money, think we are only after their money. The handsome men without money are after our money. The handsome men who are not so nice and somewhat heterosexual don't think we are beautiful enough. The men who think we are beautiful, that are heterosexual, somewhat nice and have money are pigs. The men who are somewhat handsome, somewhat nice and have some money thank GOD are heterosexual are shy and NEVER MAKE THE FIRST MOVE! The men who never make the first move automatically lose the interest in us when we take the initiative. NOW, WHO IN THE WORLD UNDERSTAND MEN? Men are like afine wine.They all start out like grapes, and it's our job to stomp on them and keep them in the dark until they mature into something you'd like to have dinner with.

Rating: 4/5

Shattered stream

2011-10-02T19:56:00.001+08:00

This morning as I was preparing for the drive back to Kuantan, our neighbour knocked on the door with some devastating news. It seems that my car had been broken into during the night. I was shocked and understandably very distressed. When I went to survey the damage, my heart sank. The vandal/low-life/thief had smashed both front windows and ripped up the car dashboard to try and steal the car radio. Despite the level of destruction, he was not even successful in doing that. Even if he had managed to do it, how much could he have fenced it for? Not more than a few ringgit, surely. What was most surprising was that despite the damage, the alarm did not go off or if it did, nobody heard it.

Since my parents had to rush out to attend an important event, I was left to settle things by myself. I decided to snap a few pictures first before going to the police station to file a report. As I took the photos, I was suddenly overwhelmed with a wave of despair. I needed the car, to drive back to Kuantan, to go to work, to send the kids to school. So I sat down on the curb and cried. A passing motorcyclist stopped and asked me if I was ok. Even though I told him that I was fine, and it was just the car, he did not want to leave me there alone. He said that there have been cases before where upon seeing women in distress, criminals will then mug them. He told me not to worry and called the police to send a patrol car.

A young couple who were jogging past also stopped and kept me company. In fact, when they found out that I was alone and had to go to the police station, they accompanied me and stayed throughout the whole process until my car was safely in the workshop. They were a couple years younger than me and very recently (3 weeks) married and I had never met them before. Both Shahrul & Akmam & the nice man who was just on his way home from the market (who I didn't even have the chance to ask his name though he stayed until we went to the police station) were total strangers but they were kind enough to help a fellow human being in distress. For that, I am very grateful.

There is no denying that I am deeply saddened by what happened but InsyaAllah this is a lesson in patience.

A stranger in the house

2011-09-29T09:49:00.003+08:00

I have always had reservations about having a full-time, live in maid since I am essentially a very private person. However, as with all things in life, situations change. Currently as a working, full-time, single mom to three children under the age of six, I had to admit that I could not do everything myself.

My biggest concerns were the kids, of course. I worry for their safety. How would a foreign maid interact with them? We have all seen the horror youtube clips of maids abusing children under their care. The second issue was trust, how trust-worthy are these people. I did not want to be constantly suspicious of whether my belongings would go missing or if she would allow strangers into the house during my absence. Thirdly, I truly am not used to ordering other people to do work around the house. What sort of employer would I be?

Therefore, the decision I made to employ a foreign maid was made after great deliberation and thought. I knew that since I was working full-time and still wanted to spend as much time with my kids as possible that it really was the most practical solution. Two months living alone in a new city with them taught me that caring for them alone and still doing everything that I wanted to do for them was an exhausting task. By the time I had cooked and settled the basic housework, I would be all worn out.

Currently, I view the maid as an expediter. She does all the housework and ensures that the house is clean and tidy, the laundry is washed, ironed and folded and some light gardening (we only have grass at the moment). I still take care of anything to do with the kids (getting them ready for school, ready for bed) and do all the cooking. I do not want her to cook for us, as I really do believe that it is best for kids to grow up with home cooked meals prepared with love by their own mother (old-fashioned ideals but I stick by them). But cooking is alot easier and enjoyable (not to mention faster), when all the "work" part is removed from the equation, namely, I don't have to worry about washing the dishes or scrubbing the pots or throwing out the garbage.

Though the maid settles all things to do with laundry, I still pack for the kids each day, picking out their outfits for school. I also make sure they pick up after themselves, putting dirty clothes in the clothes hamper and hanging their towels after showering. I do not want them to take it for granted that there is someone who will pick up their mess after them.

So far, I have been able to set boundaries with the maid as to what she is expected to do and what she should not do. Compared to other maids, I believe she has a very small workload. She eats with us and watches tv at night after she finishes tidying up. As long as she does what I need her to do, I do not mind. I am hopeful that, without having to worry about housework, I can spend more quality time with the kids. I am doing my best to be careful not to fall into the trap of having a stranger raise my kids. How about you?

InsyaAllah, you can also read this post soon at www.mombloggersplanet.com

Here Lies Arthur by Philip Reeve

2011-09-28T09:39:00.001+08:00

Basic plot

Gwyna, a girl-child, is inexplicably thrown into an unbelievable life as page to Myrddin, as a boy no less. She travels in Arthur's army as he marches through medieval England, conquering lands and fighting the Saxons. Soon, Gwyna discovers that Arthur, the warrior and saviour of the land is very much different from Arthur, the man. She learns that not all stories, however grand, are to be believed.

What I like about this book

The story of Arthur and his knights, Merlin, Lancelot and Guinevere have been told countless of times through books and movies alike. This book takes a novel approach by demoting Arthur from his legendary status into that of a normal man. It also offers a plausible explanation as to how these stories and legends came to be. Simply put, Arthur had a brilliant PR officer at the time. Myrddin, the bard and storyteller enchants everyone with his depictions of Arthur's expeditions, simultaneously cementing the Arthur that history will remember. Tell a good enough story and people will believe what they choose to believe. A lesson well learnt by young Gwyna through the course of this book.

What I disliked about the book

Since the book was targeted for the the young adult audience, it lacked a certain depth that I prefer in books based on historic characters. I would have liked for the author to have delved deeper into each character.

A quote I liked from the book

If you have nothing, no man can take it away from you.

Rating: 4/5

Every day is my birthday- Aishah

2011-09-27T10:25:00.000+08:00

Princess Cake (of course)

Seems like we have been celebrating Aishah's birthday all of August and September this year. Since her birthday was on 31st August (which was over the Raya holidays) and August was during Ramadhan, so her "school" held their Birthday Celebrations for August/September plus Raya Gathering last Thursday. Unfortunately, due to unavoidable circumstances, the kids had to miss out on the event.

Super short hair! (Not my fault)

So we ended up with a rather large and pretty chocolate cake on our hands. What to do? Eat it of course. Haha.

After school!

The moist chocolate cake was quite nice, though it probably would have been nicer if eaten straight away instead of storing in the fridge for 4 days. I ordered it from D'Bak Sensations. This is the first time that I have ever actually ordered a custom cake (birthdays have never been a big thing in my family). Will definitely order from them again.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY (AGAIN!) AISHAH MUNEERAH. More cake? :)

Of getting wet, getting lost and getting married

2011-09-23T12:32:00.000+08:00

Last weekend (Malaysia Day weekend) we headed off to Johor Bahru to attend my cousin's daughter's wedding. Since the wedding was on Saturday, we decided to get there a day earlier just to make a short holiday of it. My father decided to stay at the Puteri Pacific Hotel. All in all it was a decent hotel with friendly staff, adequately spacious rooms and a good breakfast buffet. The highlight for the kids was, of course, the pool.

This time I actually came prepared. I had bought them flotation devices (finally!) and they had a grand time swimming (almost). In fact by the second day Yousof could already swim laps in the big pool. Eleven times! Not bad for a 6 year old who can't technically swim. I am excited to try and find them proper lessons ASAP. My only grouse is that the kiddies pool was definitely too small, and as soon as more than 3 kids were in it, it was hard for them to move about at all.

JB has changed alot since I lived there, though to be honest, when I did live there, I never actually went anywhere except for the hospital. That night it took us almost 2 hours and 5 long-winded U-turns (3 of which was actually the same U-turn) to find Restoran Singgah Selalu. By the time we finally made it, the kids were exhausted and I was starving. Thank God, some smart person thought of building a playroom. Understandably the kids perked up immediately. The food, when it came, was quite okay. The otak2 was delicious. Since we had arrived late, the only fish left was siakap and we ordered it sweet & sour. Probably the waiter forgot to write the "sour" part because it ended up being mostly sweet. Though I really shouldn't complain because I at single-handedly polished off 3/4 of the fish. The butter prawn was average. Other side dishes were also fair. The rice was on the dry and hard side, which I didn't really care for. But everybody was just happy to be there and to eat.

The next day we headed off to Pasir Gudang to my cousin's house for the wedding and managed to get utterly and completely lost again. I even resorted to using Google Maps on my phone. In the end it just added to he confusion because since I have never used it before, it took me many wrong turns before realizing that the flickering blue dot was us! (Yes, I can be that technologically inept at times). We finally made it, just in time to eat (the akad nikah had taken place a few minutes before we arrived). The bride & groom looked ravishing, the family was all smiles and the food (especially the lamb) was awesome.

Congratulations Dr Ikhwani & Ismail. May your lives be full of happiness, joy and love.

Half Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls

2011-09-22T09:53:00.000+08:00

Basic Plot

This book was based on the true life story of the author's grandmother Lily Casey Smith. Lily was spunky, resourceful child who grew up to be a resilient and amazing woman. Despite having odds stacked against her, she managed to persevere and adapt to every imaginable situation. Breaking in wild horses, learning to drive an automobile and even a plane, also teaching kids in distant one-pony towns across the deserts.

What I liked about this book

It is said that in order to write a great book, one must find a great story. The story of Lily Casey Smith is definitely a great story. Her life was told with such straightforwardness and honesty that every character in this book came to life. Lily Casey was not only a survivor, she was a fighter. An inspirational read.

What I disliked about the book

Nothing much really. I loved it.

A quote I liked from the book

God had saved us, but had also taken our house from us. Whether as payment for saving us or as punishment because we didn't deserve it, I couldn't say. Maybe he was just giving us a kick in the behind to say: Time to move on.

Rating: 4.5/5

Thanks to Lydia for lending me this book.

Music Mondays #14: Arms by Christina Perri

2011-09-19T09:31:00.000+08:00

This song is just a warm, cozy, cuddly song for a rainy Monday morning. Love her songs as the lyrics are often very honest and raw.

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

The Devil's Punchbowl by Greg Iles

2011-09-15T09:05:00.001+08:00

Basic plot

Mayor Penn Cage is disillusioned with his role, his hopes of bringing change to the town he grew up in seemed a lost cause when he realizes that being mayor does not mean he has everything under control. When his childhood friend tells him of an unspeakable evil that lurks just beneath the surface of the town, he can hardly believe it. Soon, not only is he force to take on these demons in human form but his life and those of the ones he love depend on it. A horrifying look at the dark side of blood sports and corruption, all in the name of greed and entertainment.

What I liked about this book

Once the plot started developing, the story ran at quite a good pace. The villains were suitably evil and the heroes not perfect but human and flawed. Good people that you root for to succeed.

What I disliked about the book

Initially, it was a slow starter. The author tends to be a bit wordy, going to great lengths to describe certain things or people. Gambling, dog-fighting and prostitution is not really my cup of tea but it did open my eyes to the seedy underworld of casino towns.

A quote I liked from this book

I'm only the mayor. And no one knows better than I how little power I truly have.

Rating: 3.5/5

Introducing ..Me!

2011-09-13T12:07:00.000+08:00

The first year students had their Introduction to Pharmacology lecture today, given by Dr Anil. He also introduced the rest of the pharmacology lecturers (only 3 of us in the department right now). Had to stand in front of all the students so they could get a good look.

Seems like a good batch, they asked many questions during the Q&A session (after a bit of coaxing and prodding from Dr Anil of course- I find students are always a bit apprehensive at first about asking questions). Hopefully will get to meet them all personally soon (as in give a lecture) but they won't be starting this subject until Block 3 (a few months to go).

Am excited about lecturing but not sure if I will get the chance before starting my PhD, it all depends on my Masters viva. Looking forward to it :) In the mean time, my door (though as yet, still not labelled) is always open.

Music Mondays #13 : As time goes by by Rod Stuart & Chrissie Hynde

2011-09-12T10:15:00.000+08:00

Some things never change ... at least I hope that they don't.

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Taaruf Week: New beginnings and old memories

2011-09-08T09:26:00.001+08:00

The Taaruf attire is still as unflattering as ever, a shade of brown that isn't quite brown or orange or bronze. But then it's been that way since the beginning of time, the only nice Taaruf colours are the ones the committee have on (a nice bright blue one this year). I see them walking in groups, with that somewhat lost expression on their faces, the Kuantan campus does seem vast and somewhat intimidating despite its beauty, even to me.

I was one of them once not so long ago (okay, who am I kidding? It was aeons ago). I remember exactly how it felt finally stepping into medical school. Of course, back then it was a different and less impressive campus (Jalan Hospital Campus) but the feelings were most assuredly the same. The sense of trepidation mixed in with anticipation and spiced up with a tiny dash of hope interspersed with fear.

I knew, as they all know, that life ...would never be the same again.

Music Mondays #12 : Senandung Hari Raya Untukmu by Dayang Ku Intan

2011-09-05T09:27:00.000+08:00

First day back from the Raya holidays. Still trying to get into gear. Just wanted to share one of my favourite Raya songs (I love all the classics). This is such an upbeat song but has bittersweet lyrics. (For non-Malay speakers, it's about not being with a loved one during Eid celebration but sending love instead).

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 31- Arrival || Live blogging

2011-09-03T17:17:00.001+08:00

Alhamdulillah, we arrived safely at KLIA in spite of flight delay & bad weather & seat allocation mix ups. Food on Firefly is really bad (I usually like plane food). I guess it's called low cost air travel for a reason. Glad to be (almost) home.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 30- Departure || Live blogging

2011-09-03T12:31:00.001+08:00

At Kuching International Airport, we have a couple of hours yet before our flight. Time to say goodbye to Usu Izzat, Usu Zila & Umairah first. We'll be back InsyaAllah.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 29- Wet wet wet journey || Live blogging

2011-09-03T11:19:00.001+08:00

We're on the way to Kuching airport today. It's been a good week, maybe not very exciting or amazing but spent with family & loved ones. It's been the longest holiday I've had in 9 years. We're adjusting, adapting and hopefully surviving. One day at a time.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 28- A chance to learn || Live blogging

2011-09-03T07:53:00.001+08:00

We take alot for granted. A quiet place to study. Books to read. Someone to answer questions when we don't know the answer. Sometimes, all it takes, is a chance to learn.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 27- Kuching waterfront || Live blogging

2011-09-02T16:41:00.001+08:00

We stopped off at Kuching waterfront to pick up Abah's franking machine (a manual embosser). We didn't get out of the car though since it was getting late & we needed to make another stop to buy supplies. Seems like we won't have time to go to Pasar Saratok, no Terubok Masin this time. Everyone is still on Raya leave anyway. Sigh.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 26- Meow! || Live blogging

2011-09-02T12:01:00.001+08:00

A museum full of cat statues, figurines, stuffed animals, pictures & posters. The kids loved it. I would have preferred real cats haha. PS: Kuching town is NOT named after cats. The Sarawakian word for cat is pusak. Kuching comes from a name of a ship that sailed to port a long time ago named "Kechiang" (or so says my dad). But Kuching authorities like cadhing in on the cat angle. Oh well, it amuses the kids at least :)

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 25- 4 little ducks || Live blogging

2011-09-02T08:28:00.001+08:00

4 ducks off to Kuching today. Actually little Umairah can't come but she showed up for the photo shoot.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 24- Re-stocking || Live blogging

2011-09-01T10:00:00.001+08:00

Not much planned today. Initially we planned to go to Kuching, but since today is still a PH , we decided against it. So today is basically "doing nothing" & "play" day. Am sure the kids will be knocking on the door soon. My kids? They're off to re-stock on "mercun tahi kambing" (those tiny things that go pop on impact). One of the highlights of their Raya. Yes, kids are easily amused.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 23- Exhausted || Live blogging

2011-08-31T16:59:00.001+08:00

After a long day of Raya visits and playing host to group after group of kampung kids visiting for Raya (and for duit Raya haha), Aishah & Hamzah finally surrendered. I'm also all Raya-ed out. I think I've eaten enough Sarawakian layered cake & drunk enough fizzy drinks to last until Eid al-Adha. Am avoiding the weighing scale, so difficult when we have the best tasting cakes in the whole kampung. Am not even a cake person and yet I can't stop eating. Aaaargh!

Aidilfitri 201: Part 22- A brother's sacrifice || Live blogging

2011-08-31T13:27:00.000+08:00

This is my uncle Sakawi (we call him Yak Sakawi because he is the 4th in the family). When my father was young, the family was so poor that my late grandmother could not afford to send more than one child to secondary school at a time. So as soon they reached 13 or 14 years old, the elder one would have to make way for the younger one by dropping out of school to find work. My father is the 3rd in the family, when it came to his turn to quit school, my uncle volunteered to take his place though he was younger by a couple of years. At the time, the family could see that my father had a better chance to excel academically and maybe help the family out of poverty. So as a young teen, my uncle worked odd jobs and at a sawmill to put my father through school. Who knows where we'd all be today without his selfless act. May my children learn the meaning of love and loyalty too. Family, people bound by blood and held by love.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 21- Counting our blessings || Live blogging

2011-08-31T10:17:00.001+08:00

My father makes it a point to not only visit relatives but close friends of his late father & the less fortunate people in the kampung. When I was younger, these visits were a chore as I never knew who these people were. The houses were hot with no electricity and the dishes & cakes served were not as grand. I was just a kid. Now that I'm older, I understand what he was trying to teach us. Now, I try to pass this tradition to my children. Hopefully, 1 day they too will understand.

Happy Birthday My Merdeka Day Sweetheart

2011-08-31T01:00:00.001+08:00

Happy Birthday my Merdeka Day Sweetheart

I love you

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 20- Birthday blitz|| Live blogging

2011-08-30T20:52:00.001+08:00

Turns out that Umairah (my bro's daughter), Nurin (Umaurah's cousin), Hakim (their neighbour) all have birthdays in late August. Aishah's of course is tomorrow. So we had a little birthday 'party'. Angry bird? Her Ummi has yet to introduce her to this concept (I know, am bad haha). Happy birthday little ones.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 19- Being thankful || Live blogging

2011-08-30T18:09:00.001+08:00

As the sun is setting on the first day of Eid in Kampung Gedong, I realize that I am truly blessed. Allah gave me three beautiful and amazing children, supportive parents who have stood by me through my darkest hours, a wonderful brother (who I was not close to growing up- we were too busy quarreling haha, but since we are both adults, is now someone who I know will always have my back) and a sister in law who finally allows me to understand what it means to have a sister & an adorable niece for me to fawn over. I was given a family, to double my joy and half my grief. For that, I am truly grateful.

SELAMAT HARI RAYA & MAAF ZAHIR DAN BATIN

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 18- Rumah orang kaya || Live blogging

2011-08-30T15:20:00.001+08:00

It's been non-stop since morning. The kampung kids have spread the word that our house is giving away RM 2 per packet (going rate is either 0 or 1). Kids keep coming in waves, some even become "guides" & bring their friends or try to sneak past for 2nd visit. Even kids from the neighbouring villages pop up. Closing up shop for a while, wanna geet some rest, been washing more dishes & glasses than I can count. Sorry kids, come back later ok?

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 17- Jalan Raya || Live blogging

2011-08-30T13:59:00.002+08:00

After Eid prayers, we went to visit close relatives. The highly densely packed houses of Kampung Gedong made manouvering the narrow streets & overflow of city folks returning to the kampung almost impossible. Back home, the second round of Berjalan Raya later. Exhausted. This is what happens when every other door is a relative.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 16- Our Raya dishes || Live blogging

2011-08-30T10:25:00.001+08:00

Our Raya dishes: Satay Kajang, Lontong, Rendang Ayam & Daging and Lamb Kuzi. Cooked by candle light. Alhamdullilah it did not affect the taste. Hehe

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 15- Eid morning || Live blogging

2011-08-30T08:12:00.001+08:00

Eid Mubarak. It's morning. Everyone is of to the mosque for Eid prayers. Looking out for the young ones at home. Hamzah & Raya cakes & cookies? who's smart idea was that? Haha

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 14- Lessons learnt || Live blogging

2011-08-30T01:09:00.001+08:00

Perhaps the hardest lessons learnt this Ramadhan is that of acceptance. With a heavy heart I welcome Syawal, may the months to come be less challenging for us all.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 13- Pitch black || Live blogging

2011-08-29T22:46:00.001+08:00

We have been plagued with blackouts for 2 nights now. Been pitch black since 7pm. Will now have to cook everything via candlelight.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 12- His last Iftar of the year || Live blogging

2011-08-29T18:48:00.001+08:00

Alhamdulillah. Yousof counting down to his last Iftar of the year. He's been stellar this whole Ramadhan missing less than 10 days. A good effort for his first year of fasting.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 11- Rendang simmering || Live blogging

2011-08-29T18:00:00.001+08:00

Yes, we do leave everything to last minute. Just getting started on our Raya fare. Probably the only Sarawakian dish on the menu is the layered cake. Oh well, 1Malaysia?

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 10- Ziarah the dearly departed|| Live blogging

2011-08-29T10:50:00.001+08:00

Back from going to ziarah my late grandmother's grave. A truly humble lady who raised 7 children alone after the death of her husband, in extremes of poverty. I still choke up when my father tells us stories from his childhood. How hard she worked, how much they sacrificed. My grandfather's grave can only be reached by boat, too far for us today. In remembering those who have passed, we learn to value our present. Al-Fatihah.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 9- Instant friendship || Live blogging

2011-08-29T07:16:00.001+08:00

Kids make friends easily. Even when local dialects make communications jerky. The true sign of friendship? When you run outside to play with the kids next door, while still in pyjamas.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 8- Morning serenity & chicken run|||| Live blogging

2011-08-29T06:44:00.002+08:00

Kids cannot sleep when the rooster crows, not my city born kids anyway. It must turn into a chicken chasing expedition. At the end of our lane is a small jetty, where the river is calm & all is quiet. Until of course the chicken chasing kids come. Hehe.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 7- Bunga api || Live blogging

2011-08-28T21:59:00.002+08:00

I don't think kids should play with firecrackers (mercun), year after year we hear of child after child losing their fingers & getting burnt. Sparklers (bunga api) on the other hand, under adult supervision, can be alot of fun & should be part of a child's Raya memories.

Aidilfitri 2011- Part 6: Ghosts of Raya past

2011-08-28T16:33:00.000+08:00

Spending Hari Raya in Gedong this year, I am overwhelmed by the mixed feelings that creep up when least expected. So much has changed since the last time we were here. 2 years ago, we were here not only on the joyous occasion of Raya but my brother's wedding. Now, we are all camped out at his house and little Umairah is almost walking. Time does fly by. There is perhaps a sense of loss, an unspoken fact that hangs in the air but we do not dwell on things that cannot be changed.

Ever since I was very young, we have mostly spent our Aidilfitri here in Gedong since the Aidilfitri celebrations here are probably more grand than in my other kampung (Kelantan- where we often went back for Raya Haji). People in gedong take their Aidilfitri celebrations "seriously". It is celebrated with great joy and gusto and often lasts the whole month. Every house will have prepared the famous Sarawakian layered cakes for the guests and the kids will visit long into the night.

When I was small, there was no concept of giving "duit raya", children would visit to eat the cakes and goodies served and drink lukewarm fizzy drinks until they either got a massive sugar rush or tummy ache. Nowadays, even the kids in Gedong expect "duit raya".

I have many relatives here, my father comes from a large family. My numerous cousins now have many children of their own, and sad to say, coming here once every couple of years, I have lost track of them, not being able to put names to faces. I have always been terrible with names.

Listening to my brother talk about the social ills that plague my kampung now, I can't help but yearn to turn back the clock to a time when coming back to Gedong for Raya meant running around with cousins and eating more cake than I could possibly ever fit into my tummy. I am saddened to hear that progress here has brought more dark elements than good, with corruption reigning freely and youths squandering their lives on alcohol and drugs. I pray for my brother and his family and hope that they can make a difference. The only way people can break free from poverty is through education, good family values and hard-work. Hopefully, everyone here will realize that before it is too late. I wonder if villages elsewhere are also under attack from these forces or are still the idyllic havens that they used to be.

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 5- Boulevard, Kuching|| Live blogging

2011-08-28T14:00:00.001+08:00

We decided to shop at Boulevard, one of the newer malls in Kuching. Seems like the rest of Kuchingites had the same idea. Didn't really see what stores were there due to the sea of people. Smelled a Famous Amos though :). Two overladen trollies later, we made it out (just barely) with ingredients for our Raya menu. Back to Kampung Gedong we go!

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 4- Bandar Serian || Live blogging

2011-08-28T11:16:00.001+08:00

Planned to do some last minute shopping for ingredients to cook Raya morning. Bandar Serian is the nearest small town to Kampung Gedong (27 km). There are a few supermarkets, wet markets, banks, schools (probably as big as Batu Pahat) but after stopping at one of the supermarkets, we decided to head for Kuching. There would be more choice & no need to go to many stores & wade through the sea of people at the market. So Kuching here we come!

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 3- Kampung Gedong || Live blogging

2011-08-27T20:04:00.004+08:00

We arrived just before Iftar. immediately the kids were excited to see their cousin Umairah. My brother & his wife Zila already bought them really cool new sparkly toys, including this safe alternative to fireworks. It's like a little slingshot that can propel the brightly coloured projectile straight up. Totally safe & hours of fun, unless of course you're a bad shot & shoot straight for the roof. :)

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 2- Kuching International Airport|| Live blogging

2011-08-27T15:54:00.001+08:00

Safely arrived at Kuching International Airport. The kids had a good flight, ate the in-flight meal. We sat in the first two rows, so the first thing Hamzah asked was "Siapa drive aeroplane? Tokki ke?". Kids were a bit cranky when we stepped out of the airport, it's been a long day but they cheered up immediately when they saw their Usu Izzat. Onwards to Kg Gedong!

Aidilfitri 2011: Part 1- KLIA || Live blogging

2011-08-27T10:01:00.001+08:00

All ready to go. Our flight is at 1pm, check-in counter opens at 11am and it's not even 10 am yet. Got alot of baggage, most of it are the kids'. Also brought back Sate Kajang (dunno if that will make it to Raya though haha). Our last trip to Sarawak was 2 years ago for my brother's wedding. So much has happened since then.

Slowly learning to Fast

2011-08-26T22:41:00.001+08:00

With the end of Ramadhan nearing, I realize that this year truly has been the first of many. Our first month in a new town, our first Ramadhan alone and the first time my first-born attempts to fast. My son Yousof will be 6 years old by the end of the year. This year, we decided, was a good age to start training him to fast.

Believe me, I did not have high expectations. He is still very young (though I do remember that my parents began training me at roughly the same age). Alhamdulillah, he was super-excited about it. Credit to his teachers at Educare IIUM Kuantan for getting the kids excited about learning to fast, to my parents and his father for encouraging him. I also tried to support him as best I can.

When the first day of Ramadhan came, I had my sahur alone, and woke him up around 6am for his sahur. He was slightly upset that I did not wake him up before Fajr because he already knows that fasting begins after Fajr. I explained to him that it was fine, because he was still a child, it was not compulsory for him to fast therefore he was allowed to have his sahur a little later than me. He accepted this but requested to sahur with me, for the days to come. So from the next day, we would Sahur together, but I would always wake him as late as possible (around 20 mins before Fajr) and make sure that he ate adequately and had a mug of hot beverage (hot chocolate/Milo). I allowed him to extend beyond the call for Fajr prayers and waited until he was satisfied and finished eating. Then we would perform Fajr together.

Alhamdulillah ever since the first day, Yousof has managed to fast very well. When I pick him up from school, there is just over two hours left before Maghrib. He usually spends this time playing with his younger siblings or watching television while I prepare Iftar and dinner. I usually cook because my children are fussy eaters so they often do not like food from the Pasar Ramadhan. We stop by the 7-Eleven on our way back from kindergarten so that Yousof (and his non-fasting siblings) get to choose a simple treat that they would like for Iftar. Usually, they buy a juicebox or chocolate biscuits as I discourage junk food. I always ask Yousof if there is any particular dish he would like to have for dinner, or ask if if what I have decided to cook is ok with him. Unlike many other families, we usually Iftar with dates and water & whatever treat the kids chose for themselves & perform maghrib before sitting down to dinner. Since I only have a short time to cook the meal, it is usually very simple (1 dish + rice) and catered to the children's tastebuds (chicken curry, ayam kicap, ikan goreng tepung, chicken soup). Alhamdulillah, what may seem too simple compared to other people suits us well.

After dinner, his father will drop by and take him for tarawikh prayers at the nearby mosque. I stay at home with the two younger children. We believe it is important for Yousof to also start learning the importance of jamaah prayers. At home Yousof usually prays with me and I try to make sure he does not miss his prayers.

This Ramadhan, my 5 year old boy has not managed to fast every single day. Usually the days when we travel (to KL, Kelantan), he will ask to break the fast. Even at home he sometimes asks. I usually tell him, if he is too hungry or tired, then of course he is allowed to break the fast, but if he thinks he can make it to Maghrib, then he will get the satisfaction of completing the fast. Amazingly, this little boy, tired from a day of learning, with 2 younger siblings eating & drinking near him, will decide to wait. And when he hears the azan, he does not rush to get food or water, but reads the doa, shares a date with me (he doesn't really like the taste but he knows it is sunat to eat, so eats a little) first, before eating his choice of foods. I think, I have truly been blessed because surely I was not this easy to train.

Here are some things that I have learned this Ramdhan to help train a child to fast (most I adapted from Wardina Safiyyah's tips):

Teach your child to solat first. It would be very contradictory if you impress upon them the importance of fasting but do not ask them to solat.
Do not be too rigid. Like insisting they wake up for sahur and finish sahur before Fajr. Or refusing to let them break fast by saying things like "Now? There'se only an hour left. What a waste."
Even with children, self-motivation is very strong. Allow them to feel a sense of achievement. But be careful, sometimes, they do things just to please you. Try and make sure they know why they are fasting.
Make the child feel special. It is also a good thing to show the younger ones "Abang Yousof can choose 2 things because he is fasting today. Abang Yousof gets this big piece of chicken because he is fasting today. etc"
Do not be disheartened if he doesn't make it through the day. Praise him for his effort. Tell him he can try again tomorrow and next year hopefully he will fast the whole month.

I just wanted to share this experience with you all. InsyaAllah you can also read this article on www.mombloggersplanet.com soon.

Our short sojourn at Equatorial Bangi

2011-08-25T09:56:00.000+08:00

Last week, I went back to KL to submit my thesis. I got an SMS from my dad telling me that after Iftar at our house, I should bring the kids & my mum to the Equatorial Bangi since he had a 3 day conference there and they allocated him a big room.

The kids were excited of course, they love staying in hotels. After making a U-turn at Shah Alam (yes! people I actually missed the Sungai Besi toll and ended up in Shah Alam), we managed to find the Bangi exit and the Equatorial easily.

The kids had a great time just playing around. The grounds were beautiful and the kids pool was really nice. Some hotels have a wading pool that is to me, still too deep for small children, so as a default tense parent, I always stand by the side worrying. The Equatorial wading pool was just perfect.

My only gripe was the room service. The menu promised Nasi Goreng BBQ Chicken for RM26 ++. Listed in the description was BBQ chicken, egg and veggies. What arrived instead was a sorry excuse of a Nasi Goreng that I wouldn't pay RM 2.60 for, the BBQ chicken was actually tiny diced chicken sausage inside the rice and the egg was also tiny flecks in the rice. The menu was totally misleading as the other Nasi Goreng listed sate as its ingredients (so I wonder now, will the sate also have arrived as finely diced). If Nasi Goreng Sate comes with sate, logically Nasi Goreng BBQ Chicken should come with BBQ chicken.

Other than that we had a great time. Even a one day holiday, counts as a holiday in my book.

The White Queen by Philippa Gregory

2011-08-24T11:39:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

Widowed with 2 young sons, Elizabeth Woodville, uses her beauty and cunning to provide for her family and ensure their future. What better way to do so than to marry the King of England. The young King Edward IV, completely enchanted with her beauty takes her as his bride and queen. Elizabeth soon finds out that life as royalty is not simply about the splendours of English court, especially during the tumultuous time of the War of the Roses. Where cousins fought cousins and brother turned on brother to have a claim to the throne. With her family now in constant danger, Elizabeth may pay the ultimate price for her crown.

What I liked about this book

I have always been a fan of historical fiction and ever since reading The Other Boleyn Girl and The Other Queen, I have enjoyed Ms Gregory's style of writing. I concede that she strays far from the actual historical facts but this artistic allowance in my opinion certainly makes for an enjoyable read. Elizabeth's rise from commoner to queen was almost fairy-tale like in quality, and the love between her and the king was realistically portrayed. Certainly the first half of the book was very well told.

What I disliked about this book

After a while, the book began to drag as plot after plot to topple the king was uncovered. Betrayal after betrayal, until it got to a point that I just wanted the story to end one way or the other. What made it even more tiresome was remembering the minor characters as they all seemed to be called Robert, Richard or George albeit with different titles. In having to follow the timeline of history, the book turned into a series of events instead of remaining as captivating a story as it was at the beginning.

A quote I liked from this book

I would give all that I am, to be, just this once, simply irresistible.

Rating: 3.5/5

An impromptu reunion crash at Al-Rawsha - Iftar 2011

2011-08-21T10:25:00.002+08:00

Am back in KL for a few days to sort out my thesis submission (finally!) and I decided rather spontaneously, to have Iftar with my old friends from MRSM Jasin. For the past few years, it had always been this never-ending cycle of "who's gonna plan a reunion?" and "where will we go?" and "when can everyone come?". Huge headache to have multiple opinions and cater for everyone at the same time. So this year I decided, I want to have Iftar with my best friend Keen, if anyone else wants to join then "the more the merrier".

With Ernie

My little idea was met with a response beyond my expectations and coincidentally some of my friends from the same school were planning their own mini-reunion (Class 4C). So I did what any self-respecting spontaneous person would do- I hijacked their reunion! Haha.

The early birds (Fr left, Ayu, Keen, Zoe, Me, and Reen)

It wasn't as hostile as it sounds. The 4C guys & gals welcomed us with open arms and we had a great night. The venue was quite comfortable (at Al-Rawsha, Bulatan Kg Pandan), the food was ok (I prefer their normal days -Lamb Mandy!- to their buffets) but most of all it was a great get together with old friends.

All the ladies & Fachri

There were people there who I haven't seen since 1997! Even though I recognized everyone, some people had to be re-introduced to everyone (Yes, you Ainor Izman). All in all it was a great reunion. Thanks to the 4C members who let us crash :) Faqree, Didi, Faizol, Raja, Alin, Ainor and Ayu. To my fellow reunion crashers Keen, Reen, Ernie, Lynn, Zoe and Suzanna, let's do this again next year!

No, we didn't eat all of that

Strong Enough to Die by Jon Land

2011-08-03T10:03:00.001+08:00

Basic plot

Caitlin Strong is a fifth generation Texas Ranger and lives up to every reputation expected of her. The fastest draw in the West, excellent sharp-shooter and a die-hard straight justice woman of substance. Things changed after a deadly shoot-out in the desert turns bad and she loses her partner. Set for a career change she decides to become a counselor for torture victims only to find that her first patient is her husband, presumed dead in Iraq. When conspiracies run rampant and the body count piles up, her only ally comes in the form of Cort Wesley Masters, a man who spent his years in prison plotting to kill her. With bigger enemies to face, their survival depends on trusting each other.

What I liked about this book

The book started out a bit slow but after a few chapters, the fast pace of the plot was quite riveting. Both the main characters were potrayed well, each with their own inner conflicts. The author was able to create an unbeatable enemy, stack the odds and have the reader wondering how the heroine and hero will survive and triumph. It also addresses the issue of justified force, when taking the life of another is the only option, or torturing someone for information may be the only route. The book also highlighted Cotard's Syndrome (a.k.a Walking Corpse Syndrome) where the patient believes that he is dead and does not exist. It was a very interesting phenomenon to read. All in all, well worth the RM5 I spent on it :)

What I disliked about this book

Many people would probably say that the plot is not believable at all, I concur. The conspiracy upon conspiracy, the high body count, was like a Western/slasher/thriller/conspiracy movie all rolled into one. However, for me, the storyline had just the tiniest ring of truth to carry through to the end. However, it took me a little while to really get into the book as the opening chapter, although tense and bloody, lacked a sense of realism. I also am wish that the author had played more on the love triangle that ensues instead of choosing the quick fix that he did.

A quote I liked from this book

The sadness kept them going, clinging to the hope that some day, it will be over.

Rating: 3.5/5

The longest lunch

2011-08-02T09:20:00.003+08:00

A little inappropriate to be talking about lunch on the second day of Ramadhan but I wanted to pen down my thoughts on last Saturday's lunch before I forgot, and I did not have time to do it earlier. It was an amazing lunch. Not simply because of the amazing feast that my dear friend' mother prepared for us but because of the company and the take home message that I obtained after.

My ex-classmate (during medical school) Dr Soha Emad, who's father Dr Emad taught us anatomy, invited me to her house for lunch. We had not seen each other since last year and I was really grateful for the invite. I remember when we were students, everybody looked forward to an invite to Iftar at Dr Emad's house because Soha's mother is an excellent cook.

I was also looking forward to meeting her 2 kids Maryam & Aiman. I had not met them before and they were both beautiful and adorable. Maryam is active and friendly, and has her mother's spunk. Aiman is the sweetest young boy, who doesn't get cranky when sleepy or even if suddenly awakened from sleep. Amazing.

Soha had also invited a very close friend of mine, Dr Alya and her husband Dr Anis. I was really looking forward to meeting her too. We had not seen each since our last yearly lunch at Passages Through India.

The food, of course was spectacular. There was rice, macaroni, roasted chicken, shawarma, aubergines with mince meat, beef with ladies fingers, kibah/kubah (great debate on this- it's basically like a huge meatball) and an amazing salad. Oh and a really nice white thing that I forgot the name of, again! Sorry, Soha. The food was so nice, that we don't have a single picture (too busy eating).

Everybody had a great time with endless topics provided by the guys, Soha's husband Abdel-Baset, her brothers, Ahmad & Omar, and her father. We girls also had time to talk and catch up. I arrived at the house at 12.30pm and we didn't leave until 7 pm!

The thing I will remember the most (besides the food) was sitting down with my two good friends. It has been a long time since I have had the opportunity to be un-rushed, un- hurried and just simply sit and talk. After the long but wonderful day, I realized that the beauty of friendship is that we can be miles apart, rarely see each other at all, but true friends will always make you feel loved.

Music Monday #11: Your Mother by Yusof Islam

2011-08-01T08:54:00.000+08:00

Today, on the first day of Ramadhan, my only wish is that my children will grow up and be good Muslims. May they remember and love me, though I may not be as good a mother as they deserve but may Allah let them understand that I am trying my best.

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Picture Perfect by Jodi Picoult

2011-07-27T13:37:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

Cassie Rivers awakes in the cemetery but that is the least of her problems. She has no idea who she is. Rescued by a kind stranger, who happens to work for the LAPD, she is soon reunited with her husband. She immediately recognizes him, but then, how could she not? When her husband happens to be America's favourite and most famous actor Alex Rivers. Cassie finds out that the life she has forgotten seems to be the stuff of fairy-tales, full of glitz and glamour, wealth and the adoration of the most desired man in the country. However, as her memories begin to resurface, she figures out that all fairy-tales have a villain. The problem is figuring out who.

What I liked about this book

True to Jodi Picoult's style this book was told both in the present and a series of flashbacks as Cassie slowly regains her memory. Usuallly, I find this style of writing very tedious (like Songs of Humpback Whale) but in this book it did not interfere with the flow of the story. Jodi Picoult managed to take a sensitive family issue and explore it well, potraying both victim and victimizer well. We learn that every monster was created by another monster, and violence is as much a powerful addiction as alcohol or drugs.

What I disliked about this book

The role played by the LAPD police officer as Cassie's "saviour" was not, in my opinion, best suited to this scenario. He was potrayed as a man conflicted with his native American ancestry and the book took great lengths to describe their legends and traditions but somehow it all seemed unnecessary and flat. For me, he could have been anyone, and I found the history lessons somewhat redundant.

A quote I liked from this book

If you were quiet and blended into the background, you were less likely to make waves.

Rating: 3/5

Music Mondays #10: Show me the meaning of being lonely by Backstreet Boys

2011-07-25T11:53:00.000+08:00

As the world grieves for the tragedy in Oslo, we pray that we will all be protected from future acts of violence.

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

1st Annual Educare Kuantan/UMP Gambang Sports Day

2011-07-24T02:08:00.000+08:00

Everyone was excited, this would be the first ever Sports Day held by the IIUM childcare/kindergarten in Kuantan. Usually in IIUM Gombak they would hold separate Sports Days for Childcare (2-3 year olds) and Kindergarten (4-6 year olds) but because the number of kids in Kuantan was much smaller, they decided to combine both events.

Firstly, the facilities were brand new, we arrived to see the teachers ripping off the plastic wrapper from the grandstand chairs. It was much more comfortable compared to the Sports Complex in Gombak as there was adequate ventilation (working fans!) and the seats were much closer to the action.

Of course, there were several hiccups before the show started but nothing major. It began with a "march" past by the kids. The 2-3 year olds were adorable. Some were given little animal suits. Hamzah was an elephant :) The six year olds were the only ones marching albeit each one to his own beat :)

There were 2 performances, one from the 5-6 year olds from Educare Kuantan, and one from the Gambang children. The Kuantan kids did a routine to The Lion Sleeps tonight and Wassini, whilst the Gambang kids did Coconut. Though the routines were a lot less elaborate than I'm used to seeing Aishah and Yousof do in Gombak, the kids did look as if they were having fun.

As usual the games were fun and hilarious with most of the younger participants bawling at the starting line or crying their little hearts out but still trying to finish the event. Alhamdulillah all my kids finished their event without incident. Hamzah came in second for his event (Pick me up!- though he could easily have come first if he had not decided to run back to the starting line before rushing to the finishing line), Aishah also came in second (Ring in the baton) and Yousof finished 4th (Gunny race).

The biggest disappointment of the day was that while we were waiting for Hamzah's name to be called out during the prize giving ceremony (actually he was determinedly pulling my hand to get on stage the whole time- I had to tel him to wait for his name to be called out), they actually gave his trophy to another child and did not call his name out. When I was sure that he had been overlooked, I immediately informed the Educare manager/supervisor. Poor Hamzah was very distraught. Thankfully, they actually interrupted the prize-giving to call Hamzah to the stage to accept his well-deserved trophy. I'm not sure where the mistake happened, whether the "race officials" submitted the wrong winner, or they wrongly crowned Hamzah at the finish line (if so, they should have informed me). What was strangest to me at the time was that the parents of the child they did call out instead of Hamzah did not protest at all, since all the 1st to 3rd placings were clearly identified with a cardboard tag (see pictures), hence if their child didn't have one, means she didn't win. Right? Sounds petty, I know, but when it comes to seeing my kids disappointed like that, I could not just take it lying down. Am grateful though that the organizers were able to find an extra trophy for Hamzah. Hopefully the future events will be better organized.

A very cheerful visitor

2011-07-22T11:26:00.000+08:00

Last Tuesday night, my dear friend Mas & her adorable baby Hayfa dropped by for a visit. Our first official visitors since we moved to Kuantan. Mas is one of my closest and oldest friends, I have known her since I was 14 years old. We were at SSI JB together, MRSM Jasin together and even IIUM Kuantan together. So I was so happy that she came.

Plus it was the first time I would get to meet her adorable baby girl. Hayfa is now 9 months old and has to be the friendliest baby on the planet. My kids loved playing with her and she enjoyed playing with them. So much so that it took alot of cajoling to get them to sleep that night. We had such a nice time talking and catching up (we haven't really seen each other properly since 2005- went to her wedding but who has time to talk to anyone during a wedding right?) & the kids had so much fun playing that we forgot to take a single picture. So I kidnapped one from her FB account.

Aishah has already made me promise to ask that aunty and baby to come back soon, and I also am looking forward to it :)

Nights of Rain and Stars by Maeve Binchy

2011-07-20T10:07:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

Four strangers on holiday in picturesque Greece, all escaping from their problems and past, are thrown together after the sleepy seaside town of Aghia Anna suffers a great tragedy. Thomas, a professor from America, Elsa, a drop-dead gorgeous German journalist, David, a young man from England and Fiona, a nurse from Ireland find themselves quickly forming an easy friendship with each other and the locals. As the town bands together in sorrow, these visitors also find strength in themselves and each other to face their own internal struggles.

What I liked about this book

This is the second book I've read from this author, the first was Whitethorn Woods, and in both she has proven that the strength of a book lies not necessarily in a complex and fast paced plot, but in character development. Each and every character in this book is a person, with feelings, conflicts, hopes, desires and fears. The interaction between each character makes this book a very pleasant and feel good read.

What I disliked about this book

I would have changed the ending, perhaps answered more questions or reunited more people. As laid-back as the book was, I was still hoping for a dramatic conclusion, but the author chose to end the book pretty much the same spirit as the book itself.

A quote I liked in this book

I don't know either, and I also hope. But remember, no looking back, no regrets, no comparisons.

Rating: 4/5

Music Mondays #9 : Ain't no sunshine when she's gone by Shaun Smith

2011-07-18T09:57:00.000+08:00

The reason why I like watching talent shows on television is that I really enjoy watching talented "normal" people achieving their dreams. Many people have sung this song on a singing competition (more famously, Kris Allen on his American Idol final- which I also liked) but I chose this version because this was a first round audition, so it was more raw and unpolished (and his voice is amazing).

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

2011-07-13T11:12:00.000+08:00

Basic plot

Christopher John Francis Boone is brilliant at maths and physics but he just can't figure out people. Even animals are easier to understand. When he finds the next door neighbour's dog, Wellington, murdered with a pitchfork, he decides to emulate his favourite logical detective Sherlock Holmes and find the killer. What starts as a test of boundaries for this special 15 year old autistic teen turns into a truth seeking journey in a world he does not really understand.

What I liked about this book

Seeing the world through the eyes of a gifted autistic child certainly opened my eyes to things that I have always taken for granted. Simple concepts such as inter-personal relationships, affection and social skills that come naturally to most seem more precious after seeing how the young protagonist struggle with them. It also revealed how often as "normal" people, we sweep things under the rug, blur the edges of truth and are sometimes dishonest just to conform to societal norm. I also developed a lot of respect and empathy for parents of special needs children, the struggles they must face in accomplishing the already mammoth task of raising a child, especially not having their love and affection reciprocated in the usual way.

What I disliked about the book

In terms of writing style, I found the book very refreshing and easy to read. The puzzles, in addition to giving an insight to Christopher's mind also were fun to challenge myself with. My only qualm is perhaps the supporting characters seemed quite 2 dimensional. However, I am uncertain whether or not this was intentioned by the author.

A quote I liked in this book

You have to learn to trust me. And I don’t care how long it takes. If it’s a minute one day & two minutes the next & three minutes the next and it takes years I don’t care. Because this is important. This is more important than anything else.

Rating: 4/5

Music Mondays #8 : Straight up (acoustic cover)

2011-07-11T09:05:00.000+08:00

I have always had a soft spot for the acoustic guitar. It tops my list of sweet talents that I love in other people (and secretly wish I could do myself). I stumbled across this video a couple of years ago and thought it was awesome. This guy may not have the best voice, he might not even have killer guitar skills but his enthusiasm is infectious. (I even prefer it to the much gushed over version done by Andrew Garcia on American Idol).

An apt song for my current mood. Life would be a lot simpler if we were Straight Up about things wouldn't it?

Come join Music Monday and share your songs with us. Rules are simple. Leave ONLY the ACTUAL LINK POST here and grab the code below and place it at your blog entry. You can grab this code at LadyJava's Lounge Please note these links are STRICTLY for Music Monday participants only. All others will be deleted without prejudice.

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

From Kuantan with love

2011-07-09T10:39:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, we moved to Kuantan. It has only been a week, but so far we are adjusting well. Everything is so laid back here as compared to in KL. The house is huge compared to my parents' house in Gombak and the kids seem to thrive in all this open space. They have THREE playgrounds just across the street and will have a large compound to run around in (as soon as I finally get around to clearing off all this construction/move junk).


Removing old junk from the house (Note the green walls painted by my last tenant)

No, we don't have a pool. Stayed at MS Gardens 1 night coz the house was too dusty.

I think it is amazing that I can leave the house at 8 am and reach the kid's school by 8.05 am. Their "school" and my new workplace (IIUM Kuantan) is literally two right turns away from my house. The campus is ginormous. It is three times as big as IIUM Gombak but with only about a quarter of the population. Several of the faculties or as we call them Kulliyyahs are up and running with mine (Kulliyyah of Medicine) the first one established. Everybody used to be under our roof but now everyone has moved into their own building.

View of the courtyard from the staircase leading to my office

The main lobby Kulliyyah of Medicine from my office (first floor) terrace

Despite not actually able to report for duty yet (am going to do so ASAP after I submit my thesis), the Kulliyyah have generally allocated me my own room to work in. There are no students yet (new semester starts in September), so other that the fact I am slogging away at my laptop to finish this thesis, life is pretty much relaxed. More importantly, the kids are enjoying their new school and their new life here.

My new office- will try hard not to clutter it

A touch of home

Of course, not everything has been smooth sailing. I lost my 3 month old phone on my first night here (I dropped it at the playground and needless to say some dishonest person out there is enjoying an ill gotten iPhone). I miss my family and friends terribly. But I have cousins here who have gone out of their way to make us feel at home and I have made some new friends too. I am grateful for the wonders of technology for keeping me in touch with people I could not live without.

As they say in those postcards. "Having a great time, wish you were here." From Kuantan with love.

A thousand splendid suns by Khaled Hossaini

2011-07-06T16:01:00.001+08:00

Basic plot

The story is set in Afghanistan and tells a tale of two girls, with lives so different and yet destined to be intertwined. Mariam is a "harami", an illegitimate daughter of a well-off cinema owner in Herat. By birth she is an outcast, though her optimistic nature fails to entrap her in the lowly stature that society had decreed for her. A tragic event sends her to Kabul, where life only gets harder. Laila is a carefree girl of cultured parentage who spends most days with her best friend Tariq. Soon, their playground turns into a war-zone and Laila loses everything only to find strength in someone who has carried more than her fair share of burdens.

What I liked about this book

Undeniably Khaled Hossaini is a great story teller. His depictions of Afghanistan and his characters bring them to life for the reader.

What I disliked about the book

With this book it was not so much of dislike, it was an emotionally trying book to read. It saddened me to read the trials and tribulations that these two women had to endure (even though it was fictional). I found the storyline to be very depressing. Even the tiny pearls of hope scattered across the plot was not enough to take the heaviness of the subject matter at hand. Personally, I preferred The Kite Runner, though tragic in itself, that book had peaks and valleys as opposed to this one which just seems like an endless field of sorrow.

A quote I liked from this book

Like a compass needle that points north, a man's accusing finger always finds a woman

Rating: 4/5

Music Mondays #7 || White Flag by Dido

2011-06-27T12:04:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, the only reason we don't surrender is because not surrendering is the only thing that keeps us sane.

PS: Because of spamming purposes, the linky will be closed on Thursday of each week at midnight, Malaysian Time. Thank you!

Music Mondays #6 || When I see you smile by Bad English

2011-06-13T00:59:00.000+08:00

There are some things that make everything okay, no matter how bad things get. This, is one of those things.

The Girl Who Kicked a Hornet's Nest by Stieg Larsson

2011-06-10T19:15:00.002+08:00

Basic plot

This is the last installment of the Millenium series and Lisbeth Salander is not only fighting for her freedom but also her life. With a bullet in her brain courtesy of her psychopath father, Lisbeth battles to stay alive and to survive when so many people are intent on destroying her. Mikael Blomkovist champions her cause and others slowly but surely come to her aid. But the Section will not and cannot let her be, for her mere existence is a threat to them all. Trapped in the custody of the system she distrusts, she can only rely on her talents as master hacker and learn to trust others in order to rectify the wrongs and avenge the injustice that she has been served.

What I liked about this book

This book was my favourite of the series. It was very smart and allowed the reader to also feel smart because it kept us guessing how things will pan out. The strategies involved in outsmarting an enemy with no scruples and immense power were complex and very addictive to read. With the good guys and the bad guys plotting away, it was thrilling to see who would finally outsmart the other and how. I enjoyed the pace of the book considerably compared to the previous two, this book had a twist at almost every turn.

What I disliked about the book

Not much although I viewed some of the plot lines as unnecessary, namely those not directly involving the two main characters. Plus, I was not sure why the book kept referencing women warriors, since the injustice dealt to Lisbeth were not solely due to her gender and she did not end up as an Amazonian champion of women's rights anywhere in the book. However, there were no dull moments or flaws that I could find to detract from the enjoyment of reading this book.

A quote I liked from the book

"Lisbeth is my friend. That should be enough of an explanation ."

Rating: 4.5/5

Grand High Tea at Grand Seasons Hotel

2011-05-24T23:13:00.001+08:00

Last Saturday we finally managed to cash in our High Tea coupons at the Grand Seasons Hotel. We had bought the coupons during one of our lunch excursions last month but since everybody has been so busy during the weekends, it took us almost 2 months before we were able to enjoy it.

I was a little apprehensive at first about bringing my kids as they are very picky eaters, it would have been a shame to go to a buffet tea with them refusing every morsel of food. Plus, I was also worried that they would be too much of a handful, and I would end up eating nothing while consoling three restless children. My worries were unfounded as not only did the kids behave amazingly well, they also ate like champions. Hamzah (the youngest) downed 5 glasses of soya and had fried rice with BBQ chicken. Aishah (the pickiest eater of all), ate noodles, rice, chicken, cakes - it was unbelievable. Yousof also loved the food and especially enjoyed the fried rice, BBQ chicken and nuggets.

They also had great fun meeting the UKM Wondergirls with a special guest appearance by Dr Mashitah (ex-MRSMJ and now Dr Mali's housemate). They loved Cik Cha (Shar), Cik Jil (Zil), Cik Mali (might change to Cik Ros- easier) and Cik Mashitah (or Fashitah as they kept pronouncing it). As usual it took them a while to warm up but they soon enjoyed themselves and had fun with their new Makciks.

All in all the high-tea was thoroughly enjoyable, the spread was quite varied. There was local dishes (including, Malay cuisine, dim sum, yong tau fu, nasi kandar), Japanese food, Western dishes, a variety of cakes and desserts, ABC and ice cream- very good value for money since we only pain RM28 per pax for it. The food was tasty too, but the star of the day was definitely the BBQ chicken. Amazing! My troops and I can't wait for our next big outing. :)

Music Mondays #5 || If I die young by The Band Perry

2011-05-23T10:00:00.001+08:00

I used to be one of those people who planned everything. I had my whole future planned down to a tee years in advanced. I am no longer this person. Nowadays, I try to live more in the moment. I have learnt that life is so fragile and volatile and even the best laid plans may not turn out the way I hoped.

~Al-Fatihah for all the innocent lives lost in the tragic landslide in Hulu Langat.~

Meeting the Giants || PINC 2011 Bioactives for a Healthy Lifestyle

2011-05-21T07:28:00.001+08:00

For the last two days, I attended a conference at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The conference was organized by the MPOC (Malaysian Palm Oil Council) and focused on something I have been researching for my Masters, namely tocotrienols (which is a form of vitamin E found naturally in palm oil).

It was an extremely informative conference as the invited speakers were mostly well-renowned pioneers and researchers in the field. Needless to say, being able to listen to the great people talk was an amazing opportunity for me (I quote and cite these people in my thesis!).

The three of us from my department (Sharlina, Chun Yi and I) also made new friends. Special shout out to Siti, Chee Heng, Chee Hyong, Choon Hong and Liza. Hope to see you guys again (especially those who are actually from UKM too hehe).

All in all it was a very good experience. I even managed to asked these professors a question during the Open Forum. (FFWD to 7:20 to see how nervous I was).

Watch live streaming video from pinc2011 at livestream.com