Accounts...

Heirloom

2009-03-16T13:56:00.005+08:00

As ever busy body , I was digging into mum's safe box just now and found out an heirloom given to me by my late maternal great grandmother , Hjh Rakiah ...

Gold ring and pendant - more than 30 years of age (existed before I was born)

And more that I don't want to reveal ... Hahaha.. *matila busy body + show off !

Unfolding the rose

2009-03-08T11:21:00.000+08:00

It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of Allah's design,
But I cannot unfold the petals,
With these clumsy hands of mine.

The secret of unfolding flowers,
Is not known to such as I,
ALLAH opens this flower so sweetly,
Then in my hands they die.

If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of Allah's design,
Then how can I have the wisdom,
To unfold this life of mine?

So I'll trust in Allah for leading,
Each moment of my day,
I will look to Allah for His guidance,
Each step of the way.

The pathway that lies before me,
Only Allah knows,
I'll trust Him to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.

Wedding Event

2009-03-01T01:29:00.002+08:00

As I've mentioned earlier, for the past week we've been busy helping around Alai Nurul's wedding preparation. There are 7 events to be covered.

22/2 - Majlis Akad Nikah dan Menerima Berian ; Berbedak Mandi

26/2 - Majlis Berbedak (Rumah Pengantin Perempuan)

27/2 - Majlis Berbedak (Rumah Pengantin Lelaki)

28/2 - Majlis Berinai

1/3 - Majlis Bersanding (AM)

1/3 - Majlis Berambil-ambilan (PM)

6/3 - Majlis Mulih Tiga Hari dan Doa Selamat

Phewww... so much for our tradition !

Medical Leave

2009-02-25T22:58:00.004+08:00

I'm on medical leave for 2 days. Yesterday checked my bp again and the Doctor regretted to inform me that it's still high - 130/100. She told me they'll monitor my bp after two months and within that period, I'm asked to bring it down.

I began to ponder upon my routine - wake up, work, eat, work, watch tv, surf net, read, sleep. Something is amiss !!

My resolutions would be :

1. Taking a well and perfect balanced diet.
2. Exercising regularly.
3. Maintain my stress limit to the minimum : so Boss, sorry if I'm a bit rocky w/ my work ! LOL
4. Find a life partner .. Hahahaha.. How does that sound? *matila lariiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii*

Oh yeah, we went to Angah's place today, overseeing the preparations made for Majlis Berbedak tommorow.

I managed to snap a pic of the wedding bouquet.. Very beautiful !!

Unwell

2009-02-24T12:32:00.002+08:00

Last Sunday was Alai's Nikah ceremony. It was hot outside. Although I know that I can't be under the sun for a long time (I'd have severe headaches at night), I didn't obey to my instinct hence went out under the sun to greet people.

Alas, I couldn't sleep at night and developed a severe headache ! The next day, I had a check up as my cough was getting worse and my temperature rose. As the nurse checked my BP, it tended to be high! 140/100.

Now, the Dr. has to screen my BP for 3 consecutive days. I hope it's temporary. Cubaan !!

Busy

2009-02-17T23:08:00.002+08:00

Sorry I haven't updated my blog that frequent lately. Has been busy with social life and also work!

This is how I am now...

Nemo died

2009-01-21T20:10:00.001+08:00

Our little nemos and one big-i-dunno-what-the-fish-is-called died today. There was a nation-wide 'disaster' due to heavy rains : landslides, floods, power cut etc.

Suara azan

2009-01-17T09:49:00.002+08:00

I was listening to 93.3 FM today and came across this nice song :

Jika terdengar suara azan ~
Bergema sayup menjelang pagi~
Dalam irama ku kirim pesan ~
Sebagai tanda aku sudah pergi ~

Jangan ditanya sebab kerana ~
Mengapa aku pergi menghindar ~ ... etc.

A mother's love

2009-01-16T23:26:00.005+08:00

As I stepped out of the house this afternoon heading to the Palace, I saw my dearest old grandmother (she's 89 now), sitting in her wheel chair on the balcony looking out to the vast land infront of our house. Her maid in attendance as ever - keeping her as comfortable as possible. It's a beautiful view in the late afternoon , our house situated on a hill and one can see greens all over.

I told grandma where I'm heading off to and she nodded ... her eyes weak, her old body frail... but her mind still sharp . A motherly nod. I am extremely close to my grandmother - having lived most of my life around her.

Sometimes I think life has lots of mysteries, things that we cannot explain. Of all these years of raising her children , grandmother has seen lots of ups and downs of life. But one thing that I think she cannot understand - her children's thoughts. Of all 13 children she bore from her own body.. of all the hardship she endured - raising her 13 children plus some fostered and many a mouth to feed - strangers, friends etc... of all the comforts she provided her children - lands, money , education etc. .. at the end of the day , she is left with only a few surrounding her , caring her . Alone facing the world... alone facing her heart-break... I wonder what is deep inside her heart and thought. Sometimes tears shed my eyes, reminiscing the good old days where all her children cared for her.. be there for her .. but now.. Sigh.

Little does some of her children know how she misses them - she cries most of the time when she's lonely. She's incapacitated and frail ... yet her mind still wonders where her children are. I've always seen her tears ... it hurts to cry , moreover it hurts to miss your loved ones. In some occasion, I wiped off her tears ... but she shed more... and I thought to myself if this is God's challenge to her , may God wipe off her sins in replacement of the tears she shed. How hurtful it is .... Tears of a mother longing for her children!!

I can remember her hugging my dad one day, asking permission to stay and spend the rest of her life here.. asking permission to close her eyes here ... Why my dad ? Why not her children?

I hope to God one day He will make us realise how important it is to take care of our own mother.. the person who bears all the hardship of pregnancy, labor, breast-feeding, educating, providing ... she'll do anything for us .. anything.... She'll say I'm full , eventhough she's hungry .. just to make sure all her children are well-fed.. she'll say I'm here for you , eventhough she's scared, when her children cry when they're scared...

Look at how we fare now... the comfortable life, the big cars, expensive possessions that we own .. where do we get it from?

I remember the Prophet (PBUH) once answered a sahabah (friend) when he asked about whom we should respect after him.. the Prophet answered , " Ommi ... Ommi... Ommi .. " which means " Mother... Mother... Mother".

Sad to those who abandon their mothers ...

Grandmother... May Allah Bless You ... May Allah Forgive You ... May Allah Forgive all of your children ... May Allah bring back all of your children before you close your eyes... Amin.

Babah's Birthday

2009-01-13T22:41:00.002+08:00

Babah turned 56 today. We had a quiet seafood dinner at the Airport Restaurant. May God bless Babah .. Amin.

Rainy BBQ

2009-01-11T21:24:00.004+08:00

We had a rainy BBQ today . Apparently Adik (aliyah) and Afi requested for BBQ at home... Usu Kachey and family, Buanak, Uda Ilah and Usu Hjh were our guests.

Lie down area

Innitial table setting

Lemon wash

BBQ started at 3pm and ends just before Maghrib prayers. Thanks everyone !!

Food

2009-01-07T11:41:00.004+08:00

I realise that my life is surrounded by food .. Haha *apakan*

Last Sunday, Kajah Aini invited me for breakfast at her new house. She asked me if there was any special request, and I said , "Oh yes please... Kebabs w/o veggies in it!"

Without veggies !!

The menu was bruschetta, eggs, sausages, baked beans, pancakes - oh delicious home-made pancakes, all sorts of home-made stuffed-rolls.. laksa... At the end of the day, one feels so satiated , and of course happy! Haha. Sorry I've managed to snap up only one pic since I was busy savouring the delicacies! Thanks Kajah for the nice breakfast.

Yesterday I was quite astonished to see my brother doing something that is unthinkable , and unaccepted of him : BAKING !

Alai and Idi baked so-called Milo Cake Batik, courtesy of Usu and Mai's recipe.

Batik baking in process.

Bon Voyage

2009-01-02T11:25:00.001+08:00

It has been 2 weeks since Baby's stay. Now she's gone back to pursue the last leg of her B Sc Quantity Surveying in Liverpool. She departed off to UK yesterday - 1st Jan. Bon Voyage darling!

New Year's Eve and New Year

2009-01-02T11:09:00.004+08:00

New Year's eve was celebrated with a quiet family dinner. Babu planned to invite our grandparents , Usu Kachey and family.. and her closest cousins .

Our menu was seafood - crabs, prawns and fish and as usual Chef Babu cooked haha .

Buffet room

Since Baby's leaving off on the New Year, I planned to order a birthday cake for her (26th Jan) and Babah's (13th Jan) too. Oh, not to forget Ne Aba's (1st Jan) and Usu's (3rd Jan).

Dinner went well... We celebrated our New Year by doing some shopping online haha.. Baby and Ngah Milah shopped for Fendi online. Baby's gonna be anxious waiting for the Fendi bags at home in UK.

Mixed Jelly Beans

2009-01-02T10:45:00.004+08:00

I consider my last week's activities a mixture of jelly beans in a bag - happy accounts to sad ones . Checked in the Rizqun on the 27th. with my brother and sister , Usu Kachey and family . We were allocated on the 8th floor, Presidential Lounge floor.

Room view

We had quite a nice time relaxing at the hotel. The hotel is very convenient where access to the Mall is easy since it is in the centre of Gadong. We also celebrated a small party for darling cousins Wafiq and Alya, former celebrating his 4th and latter 2nd birthday. What cute darlings they are !

On the day of check out, 27th. I learnt that I had a punctured tyre - the valet brought up my car and parked it just in the middle of the crowd !!! I might say that being an 'ostrich' , panic doesn't overcome my emotions in this kind of situation. I suppose my embarrasment supercedes my worries hahaha. Well, called up a mechanic and voila ... solved !

29th December is a public holiday to commemorate the New Hijrah Year - 1430. We spent time at Angah's place to help out with the souvenirs for Alai's wedding this March. We packed hundreds of souvenirs that day .. what a job !

Label

A quarter of the souvenirs

Holiday

2008-12-26T15:17:00.004+08:00

I'm taking a day off from work this Saturday, hence a total of 5 days leave from 25th December to 29th December.

Yesterday , we had a picnic at a private beach. Reached there around 1020 am, hoping for the weather to be cool as I'm not fond of the sun especially in the beach. This outing is my first since many years.

The beach is called Angel's Beach and it is very private and secluded which means we have all the area to our own. The beach has a few huts - resting hut, bbq hut, toilet, shower etc.

That morning I was driven by Usu to the beach ... my first time in her tiny cute car.. and this is how my experience in her car was :

Gear box covered w/ socks !

Tiny 'things' on the screen
This is how the beach look like, (I'll post some more later) :

The attendees were Abang Ian and family (who've arranged this place), Kaka Linda and family, Bang Mar and family with Uda Ilah and Uda Puteh, Tua laki and Tua bini and of course us. Oh not to forget, Amal Nadiah !

Our bbq items were : lamb, prawns, chicken, sausages, fish and some potatoes. The side dishes were spaghetti, macaroni (which Kaka Linda cooked on site) , some 'ulam-ulaman'..

It was all breezy and cloudy , but suddenly it rained heavily when we lunched ! It was quite an experience being 'showered' by the rain ... Anyway, everybody had a good laugh!

Sorry, we had to leave early because we had a birthday party to attend to. Anyway , it was really a good picnic - and of course with good food !

Delayed Flight

2008-12-17T19:47:00.002+08:00

Baby was supposed to arrive on Monday, 15th . However, she arrived a day later due to aircraft fault and cabin crew shortage. Spent one whole day in Dubai - the management sucks !

Qurban Rites

2008-12-14T10:11:00.003+08:00

Qurban rites fall in the month of Zulhijjah. It's a mark of religious sacrifice: the wealthy giving alms to the poor. Qurban is a sunnah in the Shafie School, while a must in the Hanafie School. The sacrifice are usually either cows, buffaloes, sheep and camels. In our case, cows, buffaloes and sheep are a norm. A third of the individual portion can be kept for themselves, but the rest must be distributed especially to the poor.

Last thursday saw our Department hosting this year's Qurban Rites for the Ministry. As usual, preparation took place a month before the event held. On the day of the event, all officers/personnel worked together to cut and pack the meats : this year we had 2 cows and 3 buffaloes. The event went well - 40 poors attended the event to receive the meats.

I notice our new officers are very pro-active; which is good for the team ! Well done everybody for the good job!

Aircraft Food

2008-12-10T23:36:00.002+08:00

This morning I craved for aircraft food. It lingered in my mind during my drive to work. Texted up Ka Alin and told her about my craving. She said she'll arrange that for me. I took it as a joke, but tonight at her house she served me this ...

Aircraft food !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yeaayy!!!

I satiated my appetite , people surrounding me were staring at the food being served to me hahaha.

The finished meal ...!

Hahaha.. I told Irwan about this . And he said, "mcm2 la u.. LOL". Irwan .. see !! Haha.

Eid Adha Celebration

2008-12-10T23:21:00.005+08:00

Yesterday I've posted the buffet settings, but today I'm posting the settings plus the food. Haha. We've decided to serve the food in-house this time. So food are served in the living room for male guests, while female guests occupy the main buffet room.

Oh yeah, guests started arriving by 11.10 am and the event started with a tahlil ceremony for the late Ne Usof around 11.30. Sorry Usu for misinforming you about the time.

Male guests

Desserts ... some of them..

Women's buffet area

Men's buffet area

After the function, we had a leisurely time with cousins. Abang Ian projected some pictures of his holiday in Australia. This is how it looks like.

Oh, at 430pm we went to visit Ne Aba and Ne Ama's open house. We had a good time gathering and chatting up with cousins and aunts/uncles . Left Ne Aba's house around 9.30pm. What a busy day !

Eid Adha Mubarak

2008-12-08T00:01:00.003+08:00

Eid Adha Mubarak to everyone ... ! May Allah grants us all good blessings.

We had quite a time doing up/setting up the buffet tables for tommorow's tahlil and hari raya event.

The buffet room

Living room corner

Update

2008-12-04T20:18:00.007+08:00

It has been quite a while I haven't peeked into my blog. For the past few weeks, I've had loads and heaps of work on my table. It took me a while to clear them off - not to mention the occasional downs and boredom that I face at work nowadays.

I seem not to understand what brings about the dissatisfaction in what I do now - workwise. Perhaps I'd expect myself to be acknowledged and appreciated , but hey ... those nonsensical expectations couldn't be realised, no ? No matter how much I do , at the end of the day other people gets credit.

Enough of dissatisfaction. Perhaps I've gone too far. I should be thankful for what I have now. Alhamdulillah.

Last week, had dimsum with Ngah Kadap who came for a short break from US. Bu Dyg Mariani joined us. It was lovely to see Ngah Kadap again, the most elegant aunty that I've ever met.

Oh yeah, it's also now becoming a routine for mum's cousins (including mum) , my cousin and I to have lunch together every now and then.. so far we had two lunch breaks this month . It really helps us catch with family updates ... and gossips of course! Too bad, I'm the only male in the crowd haha.

Uncertainties

2008-11-26T12:32:00.003+08:00

Yea, lunch was good yesterday albeit the noisy environment in Deanna Restaurant... Met up with aunties and cousin and mum joined too- fetched her up from her office.. I think we should do that as our monthly routine !

Well well.. I had my interview today... it was kind of informal... interviewers questioned me more on my current achievements.. but the thing is that the job offered to me is a 2 yrs contract... but the pay's good.. 7k ! However, progression is not being promised there. So they said, sayang eh ... you've climbed the ladder up fast di Ministry of Education being 6 yrs of service.

Hmm... I'm secured now ... being a Head Division in a Dept in the Ministry (two steps up to Directorship) .. I wouldn't want to jeopardise my job security! .. . But for sure I'll hold off the offer , best to decline.

Decisions

2008-11-21T07:43:00.002+08:00

I begin to ponder on life's decisions. Recently I've been called up for a BSP interview. I've longed for a change in my work-life.

There are a few considerations that I have to make and weigh.

Current job :
1. High profiled - As a Head of Division and Members to some high level committees, I am known amongst the top management.
2. Established - Personally I have established myself in the Ministry. Departments have been looking on to me to assist them in their planning and policy making.
3. Low pay - I don't think my pay is suitable for my job! Hahaha , how is that for a change? A wild twist of thought.
4. Bureaucratic - One has to lean to another person to execute processes. It takes time and it takes many people blamed if things crop up!
5. Professional development not taken care of. I'm stuck (for the rest of my life) with my Masters as I cannot meet the requirement of JPA.

I have seen the inside of the Ministry, and the trends especially the succession plan . It takes ages for people, even dynamic people, to be promoted and hence no satisfaction is guaranteed. People just take advantage of the 'young ones' to make life easier for them . Alas... !

Job applied :

1. Dynamic and Challenging.
2. Relaxed environment compared to the executive and high profiled job that I have.
3. Good pay - 1.5 times my pay now!
4. Got to meet and mingle around with all sorts of people be it young or old.

I hope I can deliver well up the expectation of the interviewers this Wednesday and I hope I could get the job.

At the end of the day, Maslow's Hierarchy proved right. Satisfaction is important in life. At the moment, for me satisfaction is to be self-content, financially happy and socially happy.

Oats

2008-11-14T10:43:00.003+08:00

Had oats for breakfast today.

The common oat plant (Avena sativa) is a species of cereal grain grown for its seed, which is known by the same name (usually in the plural, unlike other grains). While oats are suitable for human consumption as oatmeal and rolled oats, one of the most common uses is as livestock feed. Oats make up a large part of the diet of horses and are regularly fed to cattle as well. Oats are also used in some brands of dog and chicken feed. How's that?

Food

2008-11-14T10:35:00.003+08:00

Had a sumptuous ambuyat feast at Kaka Alin's last night. The attendees were the usuals. Unfortunatley, I was so engrossed with the food that I forgot to snap them!!

This is what happened after the feasting. *LOL*

Safety First

2008-11-12T18:39:00.001+08:00

I must applaud this man to be able to bring Safety into recognition.

Spending Power

2008-11-11T19:55:00.003+08:00

The world has been effected by the credit crunch. In UK itself, the crunch is predicted to take years to recover. Amidst that, I purchased this somewhere ...

Busy

2008-11-11T18:34:00.003+08:00

It has been a very busy affair for me for the past week or so : meetings, paperworks, etc. I wish I can just take a week off and do nothing , basically nothing!

Cute eyyyy?

Nang was telling me a joke about a man whose eyesight is deterioriated. One day, he was hoping to take a bus to go somewhere. Apparently he saw a red vehicle and helped himself by clinging onto the back of the vehicle.

A woman standing by was shocked to see this... Why? Because he was taking a ride on a BOMBA ! (Fire brigade )

Driver's Liscence Renewal

2008-11-03T21:06:00.002+08:00

I had my driving liscence renewed today- FREE OF CHARGE. Have completely forgotten and it has expired exactly a month ago!! Hahahaha.

Post Hari Raya Gathering

2008-11-02T08:43:00.004+08:00

It seems that a month of celebration isn't enough for us with all the commitments in life and the time flying so fast. Last night Mamit Kiah hosted an 'open house' , which I may call a post hari raya gathering?

Abg Ian, Kak Ros, Uda Ilah, Uda Puteh, Abg Hj and kids, Abg Mar and kids were there with us . I managed to capture some moments ...

A congratulatory cake for Mamit Kiah on her attainment of Hari Guru Award

Uda saying, "Makan Lai.. Makan lagi Lai"

We had fun that night, with Uda , Mamit and Abg Dani cracking all sorts of jokes.

End of Hari Raya

2008-10-26T00:44:00.005+08:00

This morning saw me very sleepy in a briefing with all MOE's Directors at JPKE. As soon as we've finished the briefing, we went straight to Hj Yusof's gathering in Lambak. We were treated with all sorts of dishes, the famous being Nasi Biryani kambing.

Then rushed back to the office to oversee the preparation of a project handover. SUT graced the ceremony.

Kaka Linda's throwing an 'Open House Gathering' today. There were lots of food in abandon... dishes that were enticing! Here are some of the food ...

pita fo kebbabs

soto corner

home made chocolates

Complimentary cake from Royal Brunei Catering

Cheesy

2008-10-24T23:51:00.002+08:00

Had a very nice slice of cheesecake 'somewhere'...

Prayers

2008-10-24T11:59:00.003+08:00

Last night we went for Isha and Doa Tolak Bala at Kaka Alin's. Spent quite a while performing our spiritual obligations and at the end of the day, one feels content. There were a few of us: Abang Ian's, Kaka Besar and family and Us.

I kind of liked the floral arrangement by Kaka Alin..

Oh, surprisingly Babu could go awake beyond 9pm, considering we left just after midnight! Haha.

Cold symptoms

2008-10-20T19:25:00.002+08:00

Woke up having a sorethroat. I kept on sneezing to this morning... I guess I should take up some Vitamin C, hope this helps.

Chocolate indulgence

2008-10-20T19:20:00.001+08:00

The other day I was enjoying chocolate indulgence 'somewhere'... I dreamt of it again last night. Yummy..

Rambutans

2008-10-19T09:24:00.004+08:00

I've just learnt that we have rambutans in the kitchen!! Tua sent us some from his rambutan tree.

Kop.. Kamu ada rambutan di Liverpool? Haha .. (Kalau tesliur go down to Tawanna at Chepstow Rd. London :-p)

Teacher's Day Celebrations

2008-10-19T09:15:00.002+08:00

It had been a hectic week leading to the Teacher's Day Celebration which was held yesterday, graced by His Majesty The Sultan.

We've been in ICC as early as 7 am to ensure all the preparations are on hand. Last week also saw us in action at ICC. Team work is very crucial to make sure a big national event like this to function smoothly, hence each department in the Ministry plays it's own roles. As usual, this year we're in-charge of the logistics.

The Celebration also saw how His Majesty appreciates teachers involvement in generating the Nati0n. This year's theme is "Guru Pembentuk Tunas Bangsa" (Teacher's Shaping the Nation's Youth) , which is true. Our department has also placed teachers as one of it's stakeholders to be served.

Being all over the place, I hadn't managed to capture pictures however you can surf them at http://www.infofoto.org.bn.

We have yet two big events going on and to be organised, the former being Pameran Hari Guru and the latter Persidangan Guru which will be held from 21st October to 23rd October.

Crocs

2008-10-17T14:11:00.002+08:00

Crocs Sandals

I had this reservation towards Crocs shoes and sandals. However, my reservation evaporated when I tried wearing the sandals mum bought for me. Apparently I felt very comfortable in it!

Thanks to Babu.

Red-Bulling..

2008-10-17T09:24:00.004+08:00

I use the term 'red-bulling' to refer to how active I can be, infact MUST BE, to complete my work in a limited time.

Yesterday was a very busy day at work, starting with a function then off to a private meeting with my Director and eventually to ICC to prepare for the Teachers' Day Celebration. Soon after around 2pm off to another meeting with the Dep. Perm. Sec. Got back at home feeling mentally exhausted, before going off to ICC again to check for the preparations.

Babah and Babu touched down in Brunei at 5pm, couldn't fetch them hence Alai and Idi did. Met them briefly at home and here's what I see...

Two packages 'sitting' in the foyer.. amidst luggages.

Ngah Milah is known for her splendid spending excursions, and when Babu tags with her.. they shop like 'tiada esok'. Hahaha. Joking.

Creative Invitation

2008-10-14T21:08:00.003+08:00

Someone sent a wedding invitation to Dad today. Usually invitation comes in the form of cards , but now it's a different one.. very creative !

Invitation printed on a glass cum souvenir

A quiet life..

2008-10-13T19:30:00.005+08:00

Without Babu and Babah, the house is really really quiet ! I've thought of having friends for tea at home to fill up my time. So, the usual closest friends came... Wardah and son Afif, Hjh Ai, Diana and her husband Fuzz. I cooked some friend noodles, pandesal egg mayo, tuna mayo, egg and tuna sandwiches, bergedil. Haha.. my my.. it has been a long time I haven't cooked. Forgot to take pictures of my product. *Sigh*

I have to give credit to my ever-faithful companion and I couldn't imagine how life would be without it. Here it is...

Sony Vaio on bed *winks*

Ah... Usu made some Sambal Bunga Kunyit for dinner. Bunga kunyit is turmeric flower which tastes minty and makes a very nice 'ulam'. *Matila mixed languages ... Today we plan to have dinner in the Zen TV Room.

Sambal Bunga Kunyit

Dinner is served here ...

Hmmm.. I wonder what my parents are up to in KL now? Shopping perhaps... and Babah just finished golfing? Lemme text them up...

Off Parental Guidance

2008-10-12T20:02:00.003+08:00

Babu and Babah flew off to KL today at 1135 am: Babah and Uncle Atiq with their golf excursions , Babu and Ngah Milah with their shops excursions ! Hahaha.. So .. No parental guidance until Thursday haha.

Visited Nah's Open House today at 4.30 pm. Hmm.. food and food and food..

Friday Dinner

2008-10-11T13:32:00.007+08:00

As usual, dinner at 'somewhere' yesterday .

Was a peaceful day there, starting w/ Maghrib prayers : very private - only 10 of us. Pehin Al Hafiz led the prayers.

Dinner was a sumptuous event. I only managed to consume a bit ...

And to finish ....

Eagle Eye

2008-10-10T00:24:00.001+08:00

Watched the 9.30 pm viewing of Eagle Eye at Empire Cinema. Met DPMM and PAIS there.. Sweet !

Synopsis :

Jerry Shaw (Shia LaBeouf) returns home after the mysterious death of his successful twin brother. He and a single mother, Rachel Holloman (Michelle Monaghan), find out that they have been framed as terrorists, and they are threatened into becoming members of a cell tasked to assassinate a politician.

Michelle is hot !! Haha.

Keeping Up Appearances

2008-10-09T15:24:00.002+08:00

Here I am being a couch potato infront of the TV, after friends left from our open house.

My eyes were fixed on the tv for half an hour ... w/o blink! Haha.. Patricia Routledge starred being a snobbish housewife named Hyacinth Bucket (self-pronounced Bouqet to make it sound elegant) with her antiques and clumsy acts ! My favourite part is when she picks up the phone and 'announce' .." The Bucket (bouqet) residence, the Lady of the House speaking!".. My favourite British sitcom when I was in UK... Keeping Up Appearances.

Leave Off Work

2008-10-07T15:32:00.004+08:00

I started my leave off work yesterday, 6th. Have another 8 more days to go. Woke up a bit late today, after tireless night : sorethroat and nightmares!

I think it was the effect of tiredness after endless open houses. Last night we had a very nice visit to Ngah Il: supposed to retire home early however we ended up staying up until 1115 pm ! Afi, I'll add up your msn soon!

I woke up around 9 ish....

Hari Raya Settings

2008-10-04T23:04:00.002+08:00

I've forgotten to post pictures of our living room settings for Hari Raya... Hehehe.

Other point of view...

Bloated during Hari Raya ?

2008-10-04T11:17:00.003+08:00

A good example of how bloated I feel during this hari raya. Endless rounds of Open Houses, but good opportunity to meet up with relatives.

Late night visitors

2008-10-04T11:13:00.001+08:00

We're quite touched by the kind gesture of my dear cousin Nurul who was determined to come over for a visit albeit very late at night. She's due to depart tonight back to New Zealand. Bon Voyage !

Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri

2008-10-02T13:51:00.001+08:00

Today is the day of celebration. To celebrate 30 days of fasting. Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all.

Third week of Ramadan

2008-09-19T20:51:00.001+08:00

Time flies by quickly and it is now the third week of Ramadan. Had my breakfast at 'somewhere' (obvious in this picture.. LOL)

Family Sungkai, Tahlil and Terawikh

2008-09-14T11:40:00.004+08:00

Continuing our family 'tradition' of sungkai, tahlil and terawikh, yesterday was Uda Lasak's turn. Usual attendees were there : Kaka Alin and family, Abg Ian and family, Uda Puteh and family, Ngah Milah and husband, Tua Umar and Tua Bini, Uda Bujang and us.

I do not know what made me lethargic yesterday: was still early around 8.30 and my eyes were red!

Cute cupcakes by Kaka Alin :

Sungkai Out

2008-09-14T11:24:00.007+08:00

It has been a while that I haven't updated my blog. For the past few days, things were a bit 'havoc' : juggling with work, house chores (maids not replaced yet), spiritual obligations etc.

Before Baby departed back to Liverpool, we had a few private family moments having our 'Sungkai Out' ... Babu's treat hehe.

Atrium Cafe , The Empire Hotel & Country Club

Yumm... Yumm...

East meets West ? Combination of Pandan leaves and a Lily flower

Bon Voyage

2008-09-11T04:53:00.002+08:00

My darling sister went off to UK yesterday , to complete her final year in Liverpool. The airport was packed and I met some colleagues who tended to be on duty to send off MOE's scholars and also some to send off loved ones.

Anyway, life is a bit quieter when one of the family isn't around. For me, I moved one pecking order up the dining seat ... LOL. Bon Voyage Babes. Will see you in December again.

Tired

2008-09-07T10:49:00.001+08:00

*Sigh*

Breakfast

2008-09-05T20:33:00.003+08:00

It's two consecutive days that I've been out for my breakfast. Yesterday was spent at Abang Ian's place. And today ... my usual 'somewhere'.

This was the starter for the breakfast feast ....

Dates and 'red beans' porridge

Alhamdulillah, the 4th day of Ramadhan completed.

Ramadhan Kareem

2008-09-02T20:55:00.002+08:00

Ramadhan brings us closer to God and today is the first day of Ramadhan.

Umm Kulthum

2008-09-02T14:59:00.002+08:00

Umm Kulthum is my favourite singer of all. She's a legendary arabic singer, substituted as the Great Pyramid of Egypt.

Here, she recites the Quran.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yl-7uDeYCIM&feature=related

Sabar/Patience

2008-09-02T05:18:00.000+08:00

“Dan jika kamu membalas kejahatan (mereka), maka hendaklah kamu membalas dengan kejahatan yang sama seperti ditimpakan kepada kamu dan jika kamu bersabar, (maka) sesungguhnya demikian itu adalah lebih baik bagi orang yang sabar. Dan bersabarlah (Wahai Muhammad terhadap perbuatan dan telatah golongan yang ingkar itu) dan tiadalah berhasil kesabaranmu melainkan dengan (memohon pertolongan) Allah , dan janganlah engkau berdukacita terhadap kedegilan mereka dan janganlah engkau bersempit dada disebabkan tipu daya yang mereka lakukan.” (Surah an-Nahl, ayat 126-127)

Disappointed

2008-09-01T19:26:00.001+08:00

Received a very disappointing news this afternoon. Nonetheless, I'll fight for the answer and reason this Wednesday, insha Allah.

Thanks Abang Ian

2008-08-31T08:33:00.000+08:00

It was quite hot and sunny in the morning, however things turned out to be all stormy in the afternoon. I like the smell of rain actually, really refreshes me.

Had a lovely dinner last night at Airport Restaurant. My cousin, Ian , treated us. Present were Kaka Alin and family, Usu Hjh and Uda Jalil and family. Really enjoyed the dinner. Kak Ros had the chance to sing with the live band ! So brave !

Went back at 10 pm, quite early for a Saturday night outing huh ?

Full day

2008-08-29T22:30:00.000+08:00

I've been contemplating about my busy day the whole night yesterday. Alas, a sleepless night!

My day began with my oral IELTS test. (I've been adviced to take up this test as a standby for my Masters Application, however JPA told me that it isn't necessary since I've obtained a very good grade in O Level English and possess a British Degree) The interviewer was Andrew - I bet he's a CfBT teacher . The test was hmmm how shall I say ? Hmm.. Moderate. Took me 10 mins !

Had dimsum with my bestfriend after accompanying her grocery shopping, which I couldn't resist to do either ! Sigh..*matila Hua Ho

Went home and did some cleaning - my bathroom. *Matila semangat beli MOP.

The rest of the day went as usual. My weekly dinner at 'somewhere'.

Oh... I had 'Penggaga' !! Very nice!

Insha Allah...

2008-08-28T04:40:00.000+08:00

Insha Allah, I will fulfill my obligation to God once more today... Hasbunallahi wani'mal wakeel.

Happy Birthday Nang

2008-08-26T20:00:00.000+08:00

A very happy wish to my dearest friend whom I may regard as my big sister - we have stood up through good and bad times. We never fail to make a laugh out of anything.

Happy Birthday... May Allah bless your life and your family's. May God grant you all of the goodness in both the world and 'akhirat'. Amin.

Alhamdulillah...

2008-08-25T20:20:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulillah, God gives me His grace to complete my obligation...

Full House

2008-08-24T18:12:00.000+08:00

Full house - We're hosting a Majlis Tahlil & Doa Kesyukuran. Most of the relatives attended.

Sober...

2008-08-23T18:22:00.000+08:00

What a sober day for me... *Sigh*

Al Fatihah - Martyr

2008-08-22T23:41:00.000+08:00

I do not know how to say this... A mixed feelings of sadness, confused, proud, happy... All in one.

I've just found out that one of my friends has been martyred in a country which has been in the spotlight all these while. I've known this friend of mine in UK. He was a very pious, quiet, brilliant young medical scholar. His knowledge in Islam entranced me; hence trying to know him better. He taught me a lot about hadeeth and the Quran.

I supposed he has found and realised his dream and destiny. God has given him the best of the best. God is Great.

Al- Fatihah...

Grounds...

2008-08-22T09:59:00.000+08:00

A very lovely day today .. Sunny day !

Woke up feeling very enthusiastic about washing my car.. LOL.. I haven't done it since my last blog entry. Done the job in less than half an hour... Lama? And the result...

It's been a while I haven't spent time on the grounds of our house.

The longan tree has born fruits lately. Luckily dad decided not to chop it off when renovation of the house was on-going. The longan tree is quite a short one, hence anyone could reach and pick up the fruits. Enjoyed a few succulent longans just now..

Took a snap of mum's orchids on the foot entrance stairs...

What a relief !

2008-08-21T18:46:00.000+08:00

What a relief !! The day started to be a sunny day, despite heavy clouds in the late afternoon yesterday. I've expected it to be rainy today. We're organising another function, this time graced by The Permanent Secretary.

Everything went well with the function- with smiles on everybody's faces.

Tie

2008-08-19T18:42:00.000+08:00

Received a lovely pink tie ( like it very very much) studded with stones from my dear kind friend whom I went to the Singapore visit with.

She's just came back from Korea and bought me this tie. Perhaps I'm going to wear on this up-coming function.

Thanks San !!

What a day !

2008-08-19T18:37:00.000+08:00

Reflecting back my day at work... Things were calm in the morning; went for site inspection to make sure everything is prepared for another function we're hosting this Thursday. As soon as the function was over, my colleague was called up by the Permanent Secretary. We were asked to do a presentation on our Singapore visit to the Minister ! My my ... I got panicky as I was asked to present.

On my way from site, my thoughts were mixed up... didn't concentrate on the driver as he was talking to me. To cut short, the presentation was not as I expected. It was more of a discussion with the Minister. At the end of the day, everybody was happy... Hurrah... !! Got a congratulation text message from the Perm. Sec. herself.

Thanks Mum

2008-08-17T21:20:00.000+08:00

Mum asked Maya from Sunil to install lace blinds in my room today... Thanks Mum

Alhamdulillah...

2008-08-17T21:08:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulillah, I have achieved what I longed for today ...

Egg

2008-08-17T15:43:00.000+08:00

Lingered around in the living room, thinking of what I shall have for my breakfast (sungkai).

This big egg makes me crave for fried eggs ! *Humphh* *matila Chef Wan...

Nisfu Syaaban

2008-08-17T11:36:00.000+08:00

The month of Syaaban comes in between the month of Rejab and Ramadan. Syaaban recorded an important event in the history of Islam where the qibla was diverted from Masjid Al-Aqsa to Masjid-Al Haram (Kaaba) in Mecca.

I've learnt that Syaaban is a month of self-cleansing; being placed in the midst of Rejab and Ramadan. There is a special night in Syaaban when all our deeds are taken up. (Reminds me of my half-year annual report) This night is called 'nisfu syaaban'. Nisfu Syaaban is always dedicated to prayers and qiamul lail, and fasting the next day.

Muslims take the opportunity to perform prayers, fast, zikrs, etc during this month.

Blissful event

2008-08-16T18:27:00.000+08:00

My day started off being as nervous as hell... Lots of thoughts came into my mind; weather, guests etc.

Arrived with my Boss on the ceremony grounds. Everything was very well prepared and arranged. The weather seems nice, not too hot but not too cloudy. I prayed everything goes well. I crossed my fingers for the guest lists - too bad 3 events for our Ministry are going on simultaneously. I expected our guest lists would only be a third!! True to my instinct, yes it was what I thought it would.

Then, something unexpected happened. The Guest of Honour arrived 20 mins early!! Luckily he's a laid back person- preferring to mingle around before all guests arrived and officiating the ceremony.

Anyway, everything went well. Thanks to all of my staff for their team work. Well done !

Surprisingly, it began to get windy and stormy soon after the event. What a charming blessing ! Alhamdulillah.

Headache

2008-08-15T23:11:00.000+08:00

Due to the adrenaline rush, I had a headache - I think. I went to look for some panadols to ease the pain, however I was distracted by chicken curry on the dining table. Had some and forgotten about the panadols.. hahaha.

Was a bit reluctant to go 'somewhere', but I had to.

Reached home at 10 pm from the 'somewhere'.

I'm very anxious about tommorow's event. I hope everything goes well as it'll reflect my Division.

CONGKAK

2008-08-15T11:28:00.000+08:00

Watched movie for the first time in many months. This time CONGKAK . Hadn't got the guts to watch it at night, so did it just before Jumaat prayers. Haha.

My adrenaline rush is expected to be high today.

Messy Office

2008-08-14T20:13:00.000+08:00

Reached office and my IN TRAY was full albeit emptying it yesterday. I haven't had time to clear up my table and cabinet as I was constantly out on meetings. However, I must be thankful to the cleaning-lady and my secretary who help me a lot in up-keeping my office.

My staff were very busy preparing for a big event that my Division is hosting. I came to overlook what they were doing whenever free time I have. I'm glad to have such vibrant and positive staff to work with.

Had lunch with my dear Uncle again today. This time we went for mee mamak at CA Mohd restaurant. And the rest of the day goes on and on and on ... Hehe.

Frequent Passenger

2008-08-14T19:55:00.000+08:00

Woke up feeling fresh and ready for work today. As usual, 7 am sharp for work with my two frequent passengers (in the picture).

In the middle of the journey, mum called me up and said she's trapped on her way to work in a long traffic - due to accident. I was pre-warned early from the radio, so I diverted myself to another route. This route took me 15 mins extra to reach my office. Hence, reached my office 10 mins late ! *Humpphh*

Sleepy..

2008-08-13T21:58:00.000+08:00

Well, for the past few days I've been retiring early - before 1030 pm. I think I'm too exhausted ; mentally and physically.

Sweet dreams all..

Dirty Baby

2008-08-13T20:29:00.000+08:00

Planned to wash my car (on the left) after work. However, fatigue impeded me to do so.

I guess I'll plan for it again .. Haha ..Manusia hanya merancang, Tuhan menentukan.

Pity dirty baby ...

Happy Birthday to Idi

2008-08-13T19:29:00.000+08:00

Dua dikali dua ~ pasti empat jawapnya ~ abang selalu berdusta~ pabila berbuat salah~ ... Such an amusing song that I heard over the radio this morning on my way to work.

Had another day of meetings; today 3 meetings (two in the morning and one in the afternoon). Caught up with my best uncle for lunch and soon after work went out with him again to get a birthday present for my brother, Idi. Got him a triangle clock by IKEA. Happy Birthday Di... Hmm lupaku your age... (1981).

Health life down the drain

2008-08-12T21:28:00.000+08:00

Locals go through their morning exercise in Jingshan park in downtown Beijing. Directly north of the Forbidden City, the park features the only hill in Beijing city and is a popular place for locals who gather to exercise, sing and dance (depicted from www.bbc.co.uk)

I've been astonished with the health conscious of golden aged people in Beijing. My trips to Beijing in 2006 proved this picture true. Walking along the Forbidden City, I saw aged people doing tai-chi; albeit with such physical bearing they do manage it perfectly!

I've abandoned my healthy lifestyle : exercising & eating healthy food. I wonder if I should start doing it again? *matila Cikgu Kevin AF

My own space

2008-08-12T21:00:00.000+08:00

Had a very hectic day: full of meetings. Meetings allow one to encounter all sorts of personalities. At the end of the day, one appreciates being on one's ownself.

I'm a private person, alas I enjoy every moment on my own.

However, I do enjoy being around with friends.

Having my own space... just like being in the plane.

First account...

2008-08-12T20:48:00.000+08:00

After much persuasion from my dear friend, Ros, here I am posting my first-ever blog. I've been contemplating on posting my accounts... but here I am. Lings, lurus kah ni ?