Memorable trails......

Oil palm story.... part 3

2012-01-09T03:11:00.000-08:00

Crawling towards the finishing line, I often wonder what is left in HIS store for me.I am touching my golden age this year.If not for the new civil servant scheme ,I only have 5 more years to go before retirement and that 5 years will go in a blink of an eye I am sure.Now after signing the option, I have 10 more years to sweat in the service.Does that make me happy?In a way it is .It will keep me busy,waking up in the morning with a purpose...duty to fulfill , classes to run, datelines to meet...and that keep my mind occupied for the rest of the week.
Come weekends the swing of life pendulum changes.The momentum is slower.Trying to find peace and bliss, I would visit my parents.And what keeps me happy is seeing them healthy and also enjoying the serenity of my kampung atmosphere while visitng my pokok sawit...

The path that lead to my pokok sawit.Along and momy will race through this path.When it rains sticky mud will stuck on the tyres and Along has to do extra work washing his Tok Aki's motorbike.
Cows roaming around by the river side
These are called "Belibis"..
Longing for some serenity...you can have a quiet walk along this river bank watching the water flows freely
This is what happens when there is lack of supervision

Along is trying to save this one..
Along is finding his way in the undergrowth.This is what happens when the boss is a lady and the worker is a man.I guess I have to turn into a wicked ladyboss to get things done
This part is better

Suffocating but still producing fruits..

This is from the other land

Fruits of labour.Happy that the trees finally yeilding its produce..

Now news at the home front...Along has completed his first year and will continue his second year in University of Western Australia ,Perth in February.At the moment if momy needs a cook and a driver at home he is willing to do so.Angah is waiting for her SPM and at the moment taking a driving class.Ifah is moving into form 4 and she is in Accounts class while my big baby is in form 3 now.Time is speeding .All my four permatas are growing up very fast and this double-storey terrace house will soon be too big for me alone.So may be I should start hunting for a condo overlooking the Straits of Malacca.
Of course I cannot get everything that I want in life but I will make do with what is bestowed on me and be grateful.I dont expect to smell bouquets for the remaining years but as long as I can still enjoy every breath that I take,savour every delicious meal that I eat, make no enemies and get a good night sleep without experiencing insomnia, because now I can toss and turn on my bed 360 degrees ... I feel blessed.

I accept what God has planned for me , for definitely HIS plan is far better than my own.HE knows what is best for HIS humble servant..

examexamexam

2011-11-15T05:57:00.000-08:00

Dewan Sri Gemilang, SM Sains PP

For the next 18 days
This is Angah's "war field"
Armed with knowledge that she has gained
She is facing the important days in her life
She is carving her future here
Making her dreams come true
Mommy hopes that this will be her last public school exam
Be calm,be cool
But at the same time keep the "fighting spirit" soaring high
For nothing comes easy in life dear
Focus..
Angah, just forget the trials and tribulations in the family
For those are not worth thinking
Not yet..
Besides ,it is not fair for you
To get caught in "mommy-daddy business"
And whatever the outcome is
Mommy will accept
For you have given your all and your best
Mommy is proud of you..

Beautiful blooms in dad's garden

2011-11-13T20:07:00.001-08:00

Of late, I frequently spend my weekends at dad's home.To kill the time, I took a few snapshots of flowers that grow in his garden.Enjoy...

SPM

2011-11-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

Good luck to all SPM candidates especially to my Angah. Stay cool and don't panic dear.I know you have worked very hard.We pray for your success...

11.11.11

2011-11-10T14:56:00.000-08:00

Today..
11-11-11
a very rare date
a beautiful series of numbers ...
which marked a meaningful event too
21 years ago...
Happy 21 st wedding anniversary to me
a long..long..years of ups and downs
still nothing to complain
nothing to regret..
for Allah knows what is best
for HIS humble servant..
Thank you Allah..
May YOU continue to shower us
with Mawaddah Wa Rahmah
in our lives..

The oil palm story (part 2)

2011-10-22T17:58:00.000-07:00

Now at my kampung,visiting my parents.Alhamdulillah ..they are in good health though in their mid seventies. The chilly dawn air kept me intact in my bed that I nearly missed my subuh prayer.It was so nice to be in the old familiar surrounding, which brought fond memories of my happy, carefree childhood days..
After subuh, I went through some old pictures of my precious childhood and school days. Some are still good but a few are faded and with white patches.Maybe I will find time to scan those for future keep so that my grandchildren and great grand children can see how their granny look like during her youth..
One of the many camping activities...
This yellowish newpaper cutting was found in one of the albums..The article appeared in Indiana Daily,1982, the Bloomington community became the host to foreign students. Me with Mrs Martin.Mr Martin is the professor in IU Business School back then..

Now I am waiting for Along to wake up .Our plan is to tour our kebun sawit which has been abandoned by its former tuan tanah.He is so busy chasing a middle-age Phd holder who just came back from down under earlier this year that he has forgotten about his kebun sawit which he has invested almost a hundred thousand ringgit.Amazing ..how a woman can change a man 360 degrees..and the woman does not have to look like Kim Kidashian..
So the co tuan tanah had no choice but to put her hat and boots on, visiting the site.Yesterday, Along said to me, "Mama, if you want to continue with this project, you have to be strong and stern with the helper.Mama tak boleh lembut2, kena keras sikit nanti dia buli je mama.Ni nanti next year Along tak de for three years ,sapa nak teman and tolong mama urus kebun tu..."
Ahh... the role is changing ..years ago it was me who tried to protect the innocent him but now he is protecting me..There was a lump in my throat.I was so moved hearing his concern.Then I said to him "dont worry Along,mama senang je...orang tipu mama hari ini, nanti jawab lah di akhirat nanti..."
Yes, insyallah Along is getting along fine with the previous plan.Yesterday, we went to The British Council to get Along's IELT results. After three trials he managed to get the grade specified by MARA.Actually he has nearly given up but I kept on reminding and advising him to get back to the track.Different people are tested differently and this is your test.All along you have smellled only the roses..I know you can do it Along and you did it!The key word is PERSEVERANCE..Please take this as your first lesson of failure.Failure should serve as a motivating factor for you to work harder and NOT a hindrance to achievement. Remember that son..
I know I need to learn a lot as a new tuan tanah...like which weed killer should I use or which fertilizer is the best so that the trees can yeild quality heavy fruits that can bring in big bucks.
The first test came this morning.I made rounds with Along on my dad's old motobike.At certain part the undergrowth are so tall that we couldnt race through.So I decided to get some weed killer. At the shop the towkay asked me what type of weed killer I would prefer?I said give me the one which normally use for kebun sawit.He said there are many..Paraquet, Round up, Ecomox and many others..which one would I like.
To decide I called the former tuan tanah....
I told the towkay that I need 3 20-liter containers of Ecomax and one container of paraquet.The towkay was so nice that he taught me how to mix the mixture..60 ml of Paraquet to 240 ml of Ecomax.He even gave a a gift that was a set of stationary.All in all the bill came up to rm 624 plus a new pair of boot for me to be used for site visit.I have to take care of my feet wouldnt I?I need to walk into the classrooms and to kebun sawit,so I have to take care of those feet.Maybe a pedicure from time to time would be advisable..
Well, I am going to end this post...I am at home now.Along has gone back to his college.Ifah is reading a story book since PMR is over.So there goes my weekend...
My new pair..tuan tanah kedaong is ready to make rounds in style...

Tipah oh Tipah...

2011-10-08T03:52:00.000-07:00

Lama Tipah tidak menulis.Banyak yang bersarang dalam kepala Tipah yang tak berapa besar ni dan otak Tipah yang dah kurang ketajamannya ni.Kerja..anak2..rumahtangga..ibubapa..semua perlu dijenguk dan perlu difikir.Rasa nak balik ke alam remaja.Tapi tazkirah di kolej setiap pagi Jumaat yang tidak pernah Tipah terlepas mendengarnya mengingatkan Tipah agar reda dengan ketentuan Illahi.Sekiranya keredaan itu mampu singgah di hati ini,Tipah kira dunia Tipah menjadi lebih tenteram dan tekanan berkurangan.Tapi manusia yang lemah dan alpa serta dengan yang iman yang sekelumit, seperti Tipah ni mudah lupa akan ketentuan itu.Lebih mudah ikutkan apa Tipah hendak,apa matlamat Tipah,apa keinginan Tipah..Tipah kira apabila keredaan itu telah bertakhta, datang apa pun,Tipah tetap mampu tersenyum ,bertenang dan tidak mudah gelabah... Masa itu tidak perlu lagi personal ISO.Itu yang cuba Tipah ikhtiarkan dan Tipah tahu bukan mudah untuk Tipah mencapai tahap tesebut.Tingkatkan kesabaran Tipah Ya Allah dan reda dengan segala yang telah berlaku..itulah doa yang tidak putus2 Tipah minta dengan airmata yang tergenang...
Biarlah apa pun orang nak buat kat Tipah atau nak menegakkan benang yang basah..Allah ada..Sesungguhnya Allah sebenar-benarnya mengetahui apa yang berlaku dalam dunia Tipah.Itu yang cuba Tipah masukkan dalam kepala Tipah ni.Sesekali datang rasa untuk membalas dendam..mengaibkan mereka-mereka itu, tapi Tipah urut dada dan sabar serta bersabar..Tiada kesudahannya..Biarlah Tipah serahkan kepada Tuhan yang maha esa untuk membalasnya nanti di akhirat..Tipah tak rasa Tipah pengecut,tapi... Tipah sekadar nak mencari ketenteraman dalam diri Tipah ini..
Dunia ini mungkin Ante yang punya,tapi tidak di akhirat..15 tahun bukan masa yang singkat yang Tipah dan anak-anak lalui, tapi dengan kebesaran Allah, Tipah dapat bersabar lagi hingga ke hari ini...

Salam Aidil Fitri..

2011-08-30T07:21:00.000-07:00

It's 6-1 again...

I know I have not written a lot these days..but I surely will not forget to wish Eid Mubarak to everyone..

2011-07-22T07:08:00.001-07:00

..............................the time has come for me to travel light for the rest of the remaining journey,leaving behind the unnecessary baggage.Goodbye to pain,sorrow,anger,grudges, sadness,fears,regrets.Travel light and enjoy the beauty of life...................................................................

Simple pleasure in life..

2011-07-17T07:24:00.001-07:00

Simple pleasure in life...

outing with Angah last weekend..

With Along..my strength and supporter..

...I am blessed..

Tipah Tertipu...

2011-06-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

.........................Tipah tertipu hari ini tak semestinya Tipah tertipu pada hari esok...........Tipah hanya perlu membuat persediaan yang yang lengkap bagi menghadapi kehidupan seterusnya......................
Semuga penipuan terhadap Tipah menjadikan Tipah lebih berhati-hati di masa hadapan walaupun dengan orang yang paling rapat dengan Tipah.Tipah sedar sapalah diri Tipah ini..hanya boleh diumpamakan sebagai just a mere particle floating in the vast universe......Tipah nak buat persiapan ketempat kerja, nanti Tipah akan tulis lagi................................................................................

Hong Kong / China trip

2011-05-11T03:36:00.000-07:00

It wasnt a planned trip.All I had in mind for my two-week break was to spend time quietly at home and maybe spend half a day in any spa center.However, a call from my aunty changed it all.So in a week,I had to rush to the immigration office to renew my passport and get a new one done for Ifah.Luckily the service at the immigration office nowdays is very smooth and efficient.The passports were ready in 45 minutes.Then the next day I went to the China Embassy in KL to apply for our visa .It cost rm 280 if I wanted to get it within a day but only rm 58 if I can wait for 4 days.Since the date of departure was in a week's time, so I opted for 4 days.2 days after our visa approval, I boarded a plane to HK....and Ifah, with nobody at home, had no choice but to absent from school..
Arriving from Kuala Lumpur..the pilot had to do two trials before landing safely at HK international airport due to bad weather..

Getting off from the train at Disneyland from Sunny Bay..takes abt 30 mins frm Kowloon
Mounting the staircase to get to the entrance of Disneyland..

Flights of fantasy parade..

These two mak chik cant decide which station to hit..definitely not the high-speed journey of Space Mountain...

With Pn Roslinda,assistant immigration attache in HK

The Sleeping Beauty castle

With Tinker Bell in front of her garden
We waited until the closing time for this grand finale..the spectacular fireworks..

At Stanley Bay

A muslim restaurant on the third floor of the mosque

To buy HRC t-shirt for my boys here..
The Peak
HK Madame Tussauds

Mozart..
Whispering to M Ghandi

At Madam Tussaude..Signing MOU with Mr Obama

From The Peak
Hong Kong sky line..
Thinking of daddy dearest.

Ifah celebrating her 15 th birthday in Hong Kong.These two new friends took the trouble to buy her a manggo cake..Happy birthday Ifah..may your days ahead be blessed and may your health improve..

Glittering..glimmering cityOn the boat to watch laser show

The laser show
Hong Kong glittering at night

Just for tonight only kids..Hong Kong's night life..the busiest part of the city, Mong Kok.Some say this street resembles Petaling Street where there re cheap bazaars selling imitation goods..

Taking an express train from Hong Kong to Guangzhou ,China.The journey took two hours.
Passing by..
Ready to shop
Waiting for a friend to pick us up at Guangzhou train station.Just arrived from Kowloon, Hong KongTaking sometime to visit Malaysia Consulate..

Making friends..with the security officer, Ang at Malaysia Consulate.In red blouse is Kak Normi, Immigration assistant Attache.We stayed at her house..Thank you Sis for your warmest hospitality.In white blouse is my aunty, a retired immigration officer..

We can get a good quality 4- meter material at this factory outlet for rm 15 ..and that same material is sold at rm 80 at shopping complex..

Note: Anybody interested to buy Chinese and Opal silk,do visit Dayana's collection on my fb..
In the factory outlet building...rows and rows of textile outlets here

Choosing, feeling the materials..
This Ah Chong is showing me the amount ..I ended up buying 40 pieces of material for baju raya..of course not for me alone..
Can't get enough..we had to go for a second trip the next day..

Bicycle is a popular transportation here
Tired..after a day at textile factory outlet n now waiting for transport home..
This man can carry as many as one dozen mineral bottles on his bike..
Kak Normi's condo where we stayed for 4 days..
Such a beautiful condo..
Walking home from market
Buying some vege
Good morning Guangzhou
Beautiful spot around the condo
With Condo's security guard

A walk along Beijing Lo on our last night.A paradise for imitation goods.I went home with 2 Gucci's,3 LV'S,1 Chloe and 1 brandless..

Leaving Guangzhou..we ended up with 81 kg of baggage, minus hand luggage of course..

The oil palm story...three years later...

2011-04-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

When dearest hubby started to clear a piece of empty, negligent land somewhere at the edge of our kampung, it created a lot of controversy among the kampung folks.Dearest hubby's name was mentioned everywhere and became the talk of everyday's conversation..at "kedai kopi" ( there are three in the kampung),UMNO meeting, in the "kebun", at "balai raya" and among housewives .....It even touched the boundary of the "kedai kopi" in the next kampung, which is the kampung of Menteri Besar.Luckily the MB is not always at his village house or else he would have heard the story too..and wonder who the hell this fella was...

Firstly , dearest hubby is not "anak jati" kampung, even though his grandfather-in-law was once a powerful figure in the kampung, the head man. As for his uncle-in-law,he is a senator who has brought in a lot of progress to once very ulu kampung in Ledang district.The road that led to this kampung was that of red gravels and mud,so whenever there was heavy rain,there would be puddles of water here and there.One had to be a good driver to avoid the red muddy puddles. Of course,Mat Rempits were not exist at that time or else it would become their playing ground.If you were unlucky your tyres would get stuck in the red mud and it took a few strong arms to save your stuck car.And if you were on your bike, which was a dominant means of transportation at that time,you must be careful not to let the mud accumulated on your tyres or stuck around the wheels, or else your bike would become heavier and rest assured you would be pushing your bike for the rest of your journey home.Those were the days in my kampung that I could recall...

Ulu it might be, the kampung could boast about the achievements of their anak kampung.My senator uncle was the first anak jati kampung to get into the university and my late uncle, the Ex-director of State Information Department was the first anak kampung to further his studies abroad.These two brothers had set good examples to the rest of the kampung children. From the early 80's until now many successful figures and professionals were born in that small, ulu village..and if my grandfather were still alive, I am sure he would be proud to see the achievement of these children..

The second reason why it created a havoc around the issue of opening this piece of land is this land had been growing wild and remained untouched for over 40 years and surprisingly nobody bothered about it.Suddenly out of the blue dearest hubby came to the scene, cleared up the area and turned it into his own oil palm project.There surely be a look of hatred tinged with jealousy if not all, on some of the villagers' face.The bold ones came and attacked dearest hubby right on his face for what they called an "intrusion of their kampung land".What they didn't know was dear hubby already issued an application to the Land Office and waiting for approval.The investment on this project is reaching 100 K and I am sure what ever happen in future dear hubby will not back out. And I ,taking Datin Seri Dr. Wan Azizah as a model will surely be the loyal supporter behind my hubby's work.

From religious point of view, clearing and planting on a piece of negligent government land is allowed provided the land has been remained empty for at least 3 years.At least we can put the land to good use..

According to State Land Act, those who are awarded state government land but did not put the land to any good use, the ownership can be revoked.

The uncleared land three years ago, somewhere in June 2009.

Dearest hubby took a daring step to clear up the land

Mat Kojai, hubby's right hand man..
This was what it looked like after the trees and undergrowth been rammed by Yahya's machine
Waiting to be planted..
Newly planted trees..
Daddy dearest,Along, big baby worked so hard to plant these rows and rows of oil palm trees, of course with the help of Mat Kojai ..It was a school holiday and we spent about a week in kampung to complete the planting. It was a hard work and the boys together with daddy dearest worked under the hot scorching sun as late as 3:00 pm.It tore my heart to see my boys coming back from the planting session,bathing in sweat and looking exhausted with sun-burnt face. They would not dare to go against their father no matter how tired they were. It has been army's training for a long time..

Now three years later..this is what the project looks like...

Not quite to hubby's standard ,but we re trying our best
Along is put in charge while daddy dearest is in faraway land.

Rows of oil palm trees..
Along is supervising the work done by our helper whenever he has time
Whenever the boss is not around , this is what happen..some uncleared undergrowth..
Along is trying to lend his hand whenever he could get away from his college..
This one is suffocating..Along is trying to figure out what and how to do with this one..
The bigger ones here are from our own legal land..

I know deep down in hubby's heart he has good intention towards the kampung folks.Once the time to reap his fruits of labour comes, I am sure he will not forget the villagers .

I do not expect a smooth sailing endeavour but I pray that the Almighty will keep our spirit soaring and able to face any obstacles.May Allah guide and bless us in our work.

"Berbudi lah kepada tanah..berbaktilah sesama insan"

Time to chill

2011-04-07T05:58:00.000-07:00

The view that I enjoy most while having my nasi lemak and teh tarik
The Straits of Malacca in the morning
Serene and peaceful looking horizon taken from a different angle

This is my favourite breakfast place.The nasi lemak is awesome and the stall owner just know how to make the best teh tarik in the world.I would patronize this eating place when ever I crave for kampung style nasi lemak.Of course I do not take nasi lemak everyday..(hei got to watch my diet too since I am on the verge of entering the most dreaded golden age) , so I get the choice of lempeng kelapa and lempeng pisang.It is cheap yet satisfaction guaranteed. I get the view,the delicious choices and the cheap price.Do I need to ask for more?One thing for sure I am blesssed...

Jalan2..makan2...santai2...

2011-03-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

It is a school holiday and this time the kids are lucky to get the opportunity to spend their holiday with daddy dearest.No..no..we are not going to the wild of Africa, instead our armyman is back for a short break.So time is spent on "bersiar-siar" and "bersantai-santai".To relax and rejuvenate.....
Sampling the night life along J Bukit Bintang..

Breathtaking view ...
Spending a night at Cameron Highlands after fetching Angah from her school in Kelantan
Sisters....
Daddy is spoiling his daughter
Another view from our hotel
This is where we spent our night
Lights from flower farms..on the way to the top
Very poor visibility ...and I almost regret going to the top..
Having a good time ...in one of the swimming pools in KL city center
Sisters....
Cousins sharing teenaged secrets...
Mommy and son...having breakfast at GM Bukit Bintang
Armyman is relaxing...
Father and son talk while waiting for their order..
In front of GM ,Bukit Bintang..
Armyman with daughter and niece
In front of Pavi..

A short but sweet vacation for the kids...

Isn't mommy always right?

2011-01-21T16:43:00.000-08:00

My four permatas in 1997...

Love and patience are two most important values a mother should have for her children.

I love my children.As much as possible I do not want to hurt their feelings.But mommy is only human...

I know I am blessed with 4 manageable permatas.I cannot ask for more.Any discrepancies here and there make our life more colourful.That s all..I have understood long time ago that journey of life isn't a smooth sailing ..,not even for this family.

My children,
As far as possible I ll try to fulfill your wishes and even dreams if I could.(though sometimes mommy wonders who is going to full fill mommy's wishes and dreams...ahhh getting sentimental..)

I understand your favorites and your interests. Never in the world would I put a full stop to that.

Along, you re synonym with rugby,angah is always in the softball team ,bigbaby..lately you re more interested in volleyball while Ifah who is more on the lembik side, is inclined towards anything related to dancing.Mommy understands that ..
Yes,besides working hard academically, all of you should pursue your interest in sports and games to become a balanced individual.Mommy has no problem with that..

But last weekend there is so much in my hand.Along brought home 7 friends and of course I had to entertain them just like my own children;giving fresh sheets,ensuring everybody gets a pillow and a blanket,preparing breakfast,lunch and tea.After all they have been together for a year and later they are going to stick together too in a foreign land for another 3 more years if God willing.So for these children they are just like siblings to each other.How can I not entertain them.
While I was busy attending to the needs of Along and his friends,I seemed to hurt my bigbaby's feeling. He had to return to his college earlier than usual.I knew he had a volleyball practice and college players would be selected on that afternoon.He reminded me over and over on that day.

However, I could not leave the house until Along and his friends had left.I think that is expected from a mother..to say goodbye and to sent off her children at the door.

Time was ticking away and by the time I loaded bigbaby's belongings into the car, it was half an hour past the practised time.I looked at his eyes.He was already wiping tears.I tried to talk to him but instead of responding to my questions he cried harder.I told him it was alright to be half an hour late and just tell the volleyball captain his reason.Still there was no response from him .I knew he was frustrated..Ahh....

Finally, I said.."Would you want me to see the captain?"
"No, I would look like a baby..,and no I do not not want to go for that practice.I am already late.Let it be..I wont get selected.."

I couldnt avoid the guilty feeling.But I had no choice.I wished I could be at two places at one time.
I kept on driving until I reached his college.As I was passing the volleyball court ,I saw some boys were still playing.I brought my car to a halt and told big baby to go and change into his sports attire and joined the group. He just kept quiet and as he was about to close the car door, he said,"No, I do not want to practise.Biar tak kena pilih pun tak pe..".Then he left and walked towards his dormitory without a peck on my cheek like he usually did.I knew he was mad at me..

It has been four days today and my bigbaby is still keeping himself very quiet.There was still no call.Probably he is still angry..

Isn't mommy always right?
Could I be wrong this time?
Have I jeopardised bigbaby's chance of getting into his college volleyball team?
Should I just leave Along and his friends the other day without waiting for them to start off their journey back to college?
Am I being fair to all my children?

Mommy is trying very hard to rationalise this....

This and that..

2011-01-08T05:31:00.000-08:00

Of late, I have been very busy juggling between work and family matters.In fact, a few of my trespassers have been asking me to update my blog(It surprises me that there are people who are interested to read my stories).To find solitude and to pen down my thoughts and stories seem very difficult these days since my working hours have been prolonged.Finally I am joining the 8:00-4:00 workforce after more than two decades of enjoying a half-day career.Holidays of course are quite limited and there is absolutely no more end-of-the-year holiday.So my kids did not have any vacation in 2010.They grumbled at first but mommy dearest has subscribed many interesting TV channels to occupy their time and not to mention the unlimited broadband usage.
School term has just begun.Angah and big baby are back at their school ,leaving Along and Ifah.In fact, Along is leaving too this Monday for MICET.So I have only Ifah to be my "tag along".
Finally tonight I get the time to sit down and rant on whatever comes to my mind and whatever pleases me...
2011 will see two of my Permatas sitting for major exams.Mommy has already felt the pressure.Last holiday saw Angah making trips to tuition center Monday to Thursday, from 8:30 to 3:30pm.Luckily Along has just gotten his driving licence and he was responsible for sending and fetching Angah.Thank you Along for dutifully doing your responsibility,thus lifting some of the burden on mommy's not-so-broad shoulder.Thank you Allah for blessing me with a good son.(no,no..dont get me wrong,I am not bragging,I am only saying my gratitude to Allah).Only YOU, the most merciful and the most compassionate, know what is best for your servants...

The last 3 consecutive weekends saw me making trips to JJ to buy the school necessities.This week is Along's turn to buy whatever items needed at MICET.Mommy wont get any turn because all these preparations have left her purse lighter than usual.Never mind,she can practise "reuse and recycle".What matters most is for her children to be fully equipped to start the school term.
2010 also saw me being tested with lots of things:lost,separation and sickness.December was almost drawing its curtain when I had no choice but to spend 3D/N at HUKM.The minor operation on my daughter was successfully carried out as planned.My sincere thanks to Prof. Dr. Norazura and Prof Dr Ani Amelia for their intelligent diagnosis and successful operation.Malaysia needs more dedicated and committed doctors like both of you.You personally made calls to your patient to check on her status and you counsel the mother because you know that she cant avoid the fear.Both of you are very profesional yet warm,friendly and caring. My thanks also goes to all the nurses at Berlian Ward O&G.I ve never come across a hospital which provides not only a pillow but a blanket to the accompanied person.But I was given those every night I was there accompanying my daughter and this made my night comfortable even though I was sleeping in a prayer room.
I am glad that my daughter is recuperating well and she is ready to face the new school term.

For the coming 2011,I have not thought about any resolution.I don't think I need one.I guess I just take one day at a time.There s nothing to plan, nothing to achieve.I ll try to weather out whatever problems and predicaments that cross my path and pray to Allah to deal with them in the best way I can.
Time flies....
Life goes on for me and my beloved Permatas....

Age is catching up...

2010-11-21T06:08:00.000-08:00

Last week end I attended Along's graduation ceremony, marking the completion of his one-year FIST Australia program.Since I dont have the confidence to drive long-distance,so I took a night express bus to go up north.My plan was to go to Jitra first and borrow a friend's car to drive up to Kuala Nerang the next day.I did as planned.However ,when I reached his college in Kuala Nerang,I found that everything was so quiet.It was like there was no event going on.In fact, at the entrance I was questioned by the guard as why I was there.I told him I was there to attend the occasion and he looked surprised.He told me there was nothing going on at the college that day.Classes were held as usual.Then I took a look at my cell phone and saw a message from Along.He told me he had boarded his college bus to go to Holiday Villa Hotel in Alor Setar.

What??? I gave him a call.He answered and told me that the occasion was held in that hotel and in fact he had told me about it.When did he tell me ,of course I couldn't remember.I scolded him and told him don't expect me to drive up another hour to get to the place on time .After all it was already 9:15 and the event started at 10:00 am.I scolded him over and over.He claimed that he had told me somewhere in April, and he expected his mommy dearest to remember it ???

So I had no choice but to drive for another hour.It was like making one whole circle.A journey which by right should only take 20 minutes from Jitra turned into almost two hours.When I reached the banquet room ,the event had started,in fact two people had given their speeches.Never mind... I managed to listen to the last speech from the Chairman of MARA before the certificates were presented and lunch was served.

His lecturer ushered me to the table.I was still mad when settling down on the chair.However, my anger subsided when Along's name was announced as recipient for "Anugerah Kokurikulum Tebaik".Ok Along..you just know how to win mommy's heart..at least the time and journey spent were worthwhile...

Congratulations children..one more step to down under...

Ouch!

2010-10-11T00:35:00.000-07:00

I had been having back pain for days.Finding remedies was not easy.Sleeping on the heated mattress,using the traditional "minyak panas" and even stop eating food that could cause wind in the body..you name it,still the pain was biting me unbearably.
Finally, I decided to look for some pain killers...A friend of mine brought me to some old clinic.Looking at its physical state ( even the clinic was spelt as "Kelinik"),I didnt put much hope on it.
Till now I am trying to figure out the cause of my back ache..
Maybe I ve been driving for 50 km everyday for the past 3 weeks..
or it might be due to the countless steps and a few slopes that I have to mount everyday at my new work place..
or it could be due to the weight from my laptop which I ve to carry on my back to classes
or now my classes are all spread out ,so I have to walk all around the campus..
or pssttt....age factor????

Anyway, the pills prescribed by the Kelinik work wonders..my back is back to normal..at least for now..
So, next time don't judge a book by its cover!

It's 6 minus 1

2010-09-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

Wishing Eid Mubarak to all my cyber friends.Hoping that everybody is happy and healthy celebrating this joyous occasion.Although it's 6 - 1 this year,yours truly and the children are still celebrating this raya in the best of state...

Salam Aidil Fitri dan Maaf Zahir Batin from MG and family.

Ramadhan Kareem

2010-08-09T03:08:00.000-07:00

Today is 1 Ramadhan 1431.Time is definitely speeding and does not wait for anyone.

It is a holiday for the those who reside in this historical state.That means we can have an extra day to rest this week and prepare for this blessed month.

Ramadhan this year is very different than it used to be.On the first day of the previous Ramadhan I was busy doing marketing , planning and preparing the meal for the break-fasting.There were me and my four children around the dining table.

However,this evening there will be only me and daughter Ifah.We will be staring at each other and biting our food.Not only I am experiencing emptiness but the house is also turning into an empty nest.

I always like to look at the bright side of things.Less people in the house means less hassle.Time spent in the kitchen is lessen.Maybe I shall not open my kitchen at all and rely on Pasar Ramadhan instead.Then I shall have more time to the activities that I should do as a muslim during Ramadhan..

Blessing comes in many ways and I am sure this is another blessing in disguise..

To my other half in faraway land and all my children,I wish you Ramadhan Al Mubarak and I hope Ramadhan blessing will always be with you through out the month.I miss you all terribly and I cant help shedding a tear or two while typing this.

To all my cyber friends,salam ramadhan and selamat menyemarakkan lagi bulan yang mulia ini.

#@>&^%????

2010-07-18T08:37:00.000-07:00

It's 11:38 pm..
Been tossing n turning on bed
Sleep does not come easy.
Feeling rotten inside.
Wish I could just open the door and vanish in thin air..
Or dig a hole and bury myself inside.
O God ..give me all the strength
Help me like you always did in the past
Guide me on my next step
Show me the path that I should take
For this weak soul is again at a junction
Confused..uncertain..almost beaten for the umpteenth time
Once again take my hand and pull me up
So I can stand strong again
For I have no one
But YOU to turn to...
Help me GOD...

Another birthday...

2010-07-04T06:14:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday Amira @ angah.Mommy hopes that you are always happy,healthy and surrounded by good friends who can inspire you to strive for the best.
May you always be in HIS protection and guidance.Hope you have a beautiful birthday and we miss you at home...

Thanks to the Armed Forces..

2010-06-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

About 150 children of the Armed Forces were present yesterday at Auditorium Wisma Pertahanan KEMENTAH, for the Anugerah Kecemerlangan Akademik ATM.These SPM and PMR high achievers received a certificate and a cheque from the Ministry of Defence Dato Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Some of the photos taken during and after the ceremony,especially for daddy dearest in faraway land..
With the Minister of Defence.
Parents and recipients
Angah, Along and mommy dearest after the ceremony.Teruskan usaha kamu!
Along and other recipients
Proud parents
Meeting my once-upon -a -time collegue in Jitra Kedah
Congratulations children...remember the sky is the limit!
Dato' Seri: Ibu n Ayah mana?
Angah:Tu dia ....
Dato 'Seri :Smile and nodding his head..
Thanks for your acknowledgement towards parents Dato Seri..
Rehearsal...

SUKMA XIII

2010-06-10T09:47:00.000-07:00

SUKMA UPDATE:

Rakyat Melaka
The sea

Chinese immigrants led by Cheng Ho
Indian dance
Portugese dance
Alfonso De Albuqurque on board
Dancing to the tune of Melaka Gemilang
Daughter Ifah in black Kadazan attire on the left.This photo is for the eyes of daddy dearest in a faraway land..

While daddy dearest was busy preparing for the UN call of duty,daughter Ifah is fully engaged with her SUKMA presentation.

The practice began somewhere in April.About 3000 students from the schools around Hang Jebat Stadium are chosen to perform during the opening and closing ceremonies.Various dances which portray the various communities and ethnics in Melaka are presented.

When daughter Ifah approached me for a permission to be one of the dancers,I was quite sceptical about it.I know the training is hard and long.I was wondering whether she could make it till the end of the event.She is not as healthy and tough as her sister and brothers,but if I denied her of the opportunity,I think I am not being fair to her.Again life is at a junction..to allow or not to allow.
If this request were to come from her brothers or sister,my immediate response would be yes..give your best performance.I always want my children to get involve in as many healthy activities as possible,try out everything so they can pick out,nurture and develop all the hidden talents in themselves.After all today's education is not solely about how well one can perform academically but how far one can develop oneself to be an all rounder individual.
So after much thought,mommy dearest decided to give her a chance, provided she eats well and takes all the supplements.

Some of the shows performed during the rehearsal

'Sultan Muzaffar Shah' being carried on a tandu
Months of practising ,from the school field to the stadium
The middle-eastern dancers.The Arabs were known as spice and herb traders.

The Chinese dance..

"Armada Cheng Ho" reached Malacca Waters during the reign of Sultan Mansor Shah.Cheng Ho presented Puteri Hang Li Po to Sultan Mansor Shah as a present from the Chinese Emperor.The royals were allowed to stay in the palace while the commoners were given land in Bukit China for their settlement. Some of them married the locals and form a community called Baba and Nyonya or China Peranakan.Until today,they assimilate well,adapt to the local culture and food and adopt Malay dressing,kebaya nyonya..
Listening to comments from Pak Ngah on the rehearsal night

Dancing in the night..such a spectacular and colorful sight!A showcase of various races and ethnic living in harmony in our Gemilang Malaysia.Daughter Ifah in black velvet Kadazan attire.

The Indian dance..The Indians came to Malacca as traders of spices and herbs during the Sultanate of Muzaffar Shah.Later they married the locals to form a Chettiar community.

The Portugese came to Malacca in the 16 th century led by Alfonso De Albuqurque.They were called Bengali Puteh by the locals.They occupied Malacca during the reign of Sultan Mahmud Shah and later was defeated by the Dutch.Now we can still find their descendants living in Kampung Portugis in Ujong Pasir.They assimilate well in the local community,practising the locals way of life..

Hopefully tonight opening ceremony will be as spectacular as the rehearsal or better.

Blue beret call

2010-06-08T23:32:00.000-07:00

After so much planning and preparing necessary documents plus receiving a few jabs, dear hubby finally left for C...last night to serve the UN.This time he will be away for a year..
Checking -in.He decided to shave bald.

Family sending him off
Good bye Sir,dear hubby,ayah,Pak ngah..hopefully you can serve well and make the country proud ...
Walking towards the gate..
Last minute reminders
Since it is school holidays,kids are back except for Along.His break starts next week..so he doesnt get the chance to see his dad
The couple who has gone through thick and thin, rain and shine,in health and in sickness..till death do us part..

Father and daughter sharing final moments before his take off

All the best in your new venture.Continue to shoulder on whatever responsibilities that come to you ,for the country and the nation at large.
May you be under HIS protection always...and we are proud of you sir...

Selamat Hari Guru

2010-05-16T07:14:00.000-07:00

Happy moments on Teacher's Day at SMKM...

Our Senior Assistant,Cikgu Johan and our disciplined master,Cikgu Nazar serenading 'Suci Dalam Debu'
The students turn musicians... entertaining the teachers
Part of the crowd..
Our Senior Assistant reading the message from Minister of Education..
Say cheese...
All dressed up for their special day

Welcome ceremony
Playing time,Cikgu Sham throwing the coconut..
Time to be kids again playing with the baloons..
The ever- sporting Senior Assistant,Cikgu Johan
The teachers have to wear this uniform for the games..ladies in kain pelekat and men in kain batik

Amin behind the key-board
Entertaining her teachers with "Situasi"
Reading the ikrar
A teacher is everything..A band of musicians comprising Smkm teachers..
Singing the song Kami Guru Malaysia.

Selamat Hari Guru buat rakan-rakan guru semua.Semoga kita dapat meneruskan perjuangan kita dengan semangat yang kental dalam menghadapi kerenah anak-anak didik kita dan dunia pendidikan yang yang semakin mencabar...
Mudah-mudahan usaha murni kita mendapat keberkatan..

The High and Mighty Abang Seniors..

2010-04-13T01:48:00.000-07:00

I was still drowsy when answering a mid-night phone call last night...

I thought I did not want to share this story with my blogger friends..but after giving much thought and may be some of you have brilliant suggestions on how to solve this problem,so I am giving it a go.It is not my intention to put a shame on any parties...but this is more on putting things on the right track.

Alright.. back to that mid-night call.Well, it was not a crank call or emergency call that involves a matter of life and death.It was just a call from my youngest permata who is now studying at one of MARA Junior Science Colleges in Malacca.

When I discovered the call was from him,several questions popped up on my mind...

First,what is he doing lurking around the school compound at 5 minutes to mid-night?

Second,why isn't he in bed at this hour?

Third, does the hostel have a curfew time?

Fourth, where are the wardens?

Fifth, what time is the "lights-out"?.....and the list goes on...

Normally, he would call in the evening,almost daily, to report to me on his activities.But last night he called me at 5 minutes to midnight.His voice did not get through very clearly and a few times I had to insist him to speak louder.It was as if he was hiding something and didn't want anybody to hear the conversation,as if it was supposed to be a secret call and if somebody found out he would face the music..

After urging him a few times, I finally heard him saying " Ma, Ijat kena ragging dengan abang senior...".Then the line stopped dead...

My response...First ,I am mad.If that abang senior were in front of me I would definitely squeeze him.

Second, of course I could not avoid the guilty feeling..here I was snuggling comfortably on my bed in my air-cond room while my son was still out in the night kena ragging..
Mothers...how would you feel???
I woke up several times last night thinking about my son and even the whole day today I couldnt focus on my work.And this is not his first time kena ragging...

At 2:30 pm just now he called me again to reveal the rest of the story...

After prep at 11:00pm last night ,one high and mighty abang senior stopped him and asked him to go to the cafeteria and buy nasi lemak.Why was the cafeteria still operating at that time of the night in the school compound I would not know..So, my son did as ordered.However ,instead of buying nasi lemak ,he bought nasi goreng for abang senior.Then, instead of sending the nasi goreng to abang senior himself, he asked his friend to do so..

Of course abang senior turned mad because his order was not up to his expectation.So abang senior took hold of my son and asked him to buy nasi lemak and this time using my son's money...My poor son didnt have much choice but to go and buy another one.That was why he was still up and about at almost 12: 00 mid-night...

Before he left,abang senior asked my son to see him again tonight to buy him nasi lemak using my son's money..He warned that if my son does not obey his orders,he is going to "tumbuk" my son...

So my son called me just now to ask my opinion..should he or should he not buy nasi lemak for abang senior tonight.

No...I told my son, do not buy for him and if he "tumbuk"(that was the word he used),make sure there is a witness.I am going to see how far this abang senior the great going to bully my son and the rest of the form ones...If there is a mark on his face,I definitely going to the school tomorrow.

This nonsense, stupid and good- for- nothing thing should be stopped.I thought this bully and ragging culture has stopped long time ago.

My eldest was in MRSM too, but this bully culture is never practised.Infact,he was happy through out his five-year stay in that particular MRSM.

My daughter is now in boarding school too and she never complains of anything.Infact their routine is at 11:00 pm the lights must be switched off and before they go to sleep they have to recite Surah 'Al Mulk'. No stress..and no tension..

Of course no food business operated at night.Dewan makan closed after dinner that is 8 pm...

But what is happening in my son's college is something to be questioned.This is a school,a boarding school infact.The activities of the boarders must be carefully planned,monitored and supervised by the wardens.They should not be let loose..what more to still be out at midnight.Their day-time schedule is very packed and if they are still out at mid-night how they are going to get enough sleep to be able to function the next day???

These abang seniors also shouted bodoh,bangang if what being asked is not perform well.Infact they wrote fucking dirty words too on my son's and his friend's lockers?What ...vandalism at boarding school???It must be stopped!!!

Or maybe because this particular MRSM is in an army camp..and the army culture and practices seem to influence the mood and the environment in that college, which I think is not conducive and healthy at all.

If worse comes to worse ,I might take him out from that particular college.Let's wait and see.

Mummy dearest's head is brewing now..with the car gone..and now constant disturbance from these abang seniors.

If you were my students abang seniors, you would definitely be in hot soup for giving me this headache!

Keretaku dicuri...

2010-04-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

Pagi ini kereta kesayanganku telah dicuri di tempat letak kereta di kawasan Hospital Besar Melaka.Yang peliknya ada dua tiga orang Security Guard bertugas,tetapi keretaku masih boleh dicuri.Keretaku juga mempunyai alarm dan kuncinya kena di"kiss" dulu sebelum injin boleh dihidupkan...Patutkah aku saman Syarikat Security itu atas kecuaian pekerjanya?

Dari sumber-sumber yang boleh dipercayai kereta ku telah menuju ke selatan dan telah bertukar tangan ketika ini.Oleh itu to all my blogger friends,if you see a black toyota unser with registration number MAX 9980,please make a report to the nearest police station...just in case..though I am sure the number has been changed..

Sedih dan kecewa...tetapi aku masih bersyukur atas musibah ini, kerana ianya tidak melibatkan nyawa.Hanya harta dunia yang aku boleh cari ganti...ada orang lain yang lebih teruk ditimpa musiibah..

Letting go...

2010-03-22T23:25:00.000-07:00

My big baby..the youngest of my four permatas...the clown in the family... is leaving home sweet home.

Although it is very hard for me to let him go from my armpit, I have to provide him with wings to fly...for his future sake.

I hope that he will adapt well at his new college...

I hope he will be more independent and disciplined...

I hope he will try out everything and venture into new possibilities that the college has to offer.

I hope he will discover his potentials and use them to the fullest...

I hope he will turn out to be an all-rounder individual...

I hope he will learn as many things as possible..things which sometimes I as working mother have no time to teach and train...

Son,use all the opportunities given and provided by the college to the fullest...

All packed and ready...

Daddy dearest is tying his tie for the last time...maybe daddy will not be able to do this again in future...

Fastening his watch...

Tying his shoe-lace...

And finally.. my youngest permata is leaving home...
The house now feels so empty and quiet now.We really miss you son...

A quiet mid-term holiday ...

2010-03-17T22:53:00.000-07:00

Other than completing my school work,occasional trips to my parents' house and giving extra classes,I am having a very quiet mid-term holiday.We do not go any where and dear hubby does not even take any leave.He is busy at the moment ,preparing for his college trip to Bandung...and we do not even go to KL to join him.

Three of my children are at home.Along is still at his college.I suppose he is just going to stick to MARA and continue with what he is doing at the moment,though I can see his temptation to apply for other scholarships like Petronas,MISC and Shell.Maybe this is due to the fact that MARA does not promise any vocation to their students after graduation.Anyway ,what is important he already got a place and a sponsor.As long as his CGPA is excellent,I am sure any company will hire him regardless of his sponsorship.So,I hope for now he can focus on his studies.

As for Angah she is busy with homework.Maybe she has experienced how chaotic and traumatic it can be for last minute studying.And I told her over and over that upper form syllabus is far more difficult than the lower form.A student can easily get straight As for PMR but not for SPM.I keep on drumming into her head that she has to be consistent and she has to start right now when she is in form four.There is no such thing as honeymoon year if she wants to score in her SPM.Yes,co curricular activities are important but academic performance outweighs it.Application to any universities and colleges is not based on just co cu activities,she must possess good impressive academic results too.

Maybe some people think that I am a bit harsh towards my children when it comes to education.To me, parents need to be mean in order to be kind to their children.We have to push or force our children first in order to know how far they can go.We have to make sure that they are not doing it half-heartedly.And once they reach their level best, we stop.Many students fail not because of their inability but because of not enough trying...In fact,I have seen students fail or dropout from school not because they lack in capability, but because the lack of support,encouragement and "enough push "from parents.Yes, some may say that academic achievement is not everything.Excellent students can turn into mediocre staff when they enter the working world.However,as parents we must not use such excuse for not trying our best.What is important we have tried our best,so we leave the rest,the future of our kids to the Almighty..

Daughter Ifah is busy too with her "pakej percutian".Sorry ,she is not going on a holiday,but to finish her homework package.One of the content in the package is a compilation of twenty essays. She missed a few lessons before the holiday due to health problem,but now I can see that she is catching up.Well,I can only pray that she does her best..

As for big baby,he gets a rest from doing homework.He is counting the days to be at his new college.So he spends most of his time reading Grolier encyclopedias.One thing about him is he likes to read.Sometimes he knows about certain events first than I do.

As for mommy dearest she will take a break from the chores by either blogging or face booking.She not only manages to trace many of her friends in varsity, secondary and even primary schools but gets news as their where about,family and work.Some are good news but a few unpleasant ones.As servants we can only plan but it is up to the Almighty to grant ....

When the cat was not around....

2010-03-16T04:55:00.000-07:00

I seldom write on other things but my family.But a few episodes which happened this afternoon have sparked my interest to write on a different subject matter.

Earlier this afternoon I went to one of the army hospitals for my big baby's medical examination.No..no..he is fine alright.The examination is just a requirement for him to enter into MRSM.

So we stepped into the out-patient building.We were greeted with a smile and a very warm welcome.After giving the form and particulars,we were asked to sit.Fine...It was a very relaxing and pleasant atmosphere, with only less than ten patients waiting in line.

Less than ten minutes,we were called up by the nurse.We were asked to go to radiology department and get the x-ray report.Actually this is the second visit to the hospital.The first one was last week to take the x-ray and the urine.This week is to gather all the reports and to meet the doctor.I didn't complain much although I know that this medical examination can be done in half a day if it is at the General Hospital.But because dear hubby chose to do it at the army hospital,I just follow the tide.Anyway who am I to make such a fuss.Two days they said,so two days I waited...

We had no problem at the radiology.The report and x-ray film were all ready.I took the film and brought it to the receptionist at the out-patient department ...and again we were asked to wait.

With nothing to do,I just glued my eyes on the TV screen.The show was "Kak Odah driver" ,which I have never gotten the chance to watch before this.Five minutes later we were called up again.Now one of the nurses told us that we couldnt see the doctor today.They gave us a very lame excuse...that was the system broke down earlier and it would take sometime to recover the data and hence they couldnt print out the urine report.So they asked us to come back again the next day.To come another day is definitely a waste of time and a waste of petrol.So,I told them I d rather wait even if it was going to be hours rather then coming back the next day. Seeing that I insisted on waiting,the other nurse came out with a solution...telling me that they d trace the urine test manually.Aha...it can be done and solved!
There is always another way or a different solution.What if I were such a weak and meek person..sure kena goreng punya..To these type of civil servants do you know that part of your duties is to overcome whatever problems that might arise in the best possible way instead of coming out with excuses...

The second episode...I was given back the form and asked to go for dental examination. Never mind it is just next door.I entered the room.I bypassed the first room because the person in there was talking on the phone.I went to the second room which appeared to be an examination room.It was empty.I marched on ...the third room.The door was wide open and I saw a man in uniform (whom I discovered later to be the dentist) lying on a sofa with his two legs on the arm rest and at the same time talking to his staff...They did not even bother to close the door.I am sure as civil servants we are not allowed to behave in such a manner while at work even if we are the boss..Or was it my fault because I didnt give any assalamualaikum...No...no..I am sure what was portrayed in front of me was very unethical.
Anyway..the dentist did as what was required by the form but he definitely couldnt hide his red face ...

Third episode...Then we were shoved to another room..where they took the weight,height,blood pressure and did some eye test.The room was filled with 5 other staff.As one of the staff was checking big baby, the others were laughing and talking hilariously without bothering my presence.One was flipping through pages of a shoe catalogue and commenting.One of them was walking around and almost bumped on me.Maybe they thought I was just one mak chik kampung who doesnt know the rules and regulation at the hospital.An examination room which resembled a market place...

Final episode...I can just ignore the above episodes and come out with some excuses for their manners.Maybe they are only the support staff and not professionals.However what I saw in the final episode was even worst!When my number was called I pushed my big baby into the doctor's room.As usual I was expecting a doctor and his nurse on duty.But I was wrong this time.There were three people,the doctor,the nurse who was standing and waiting for orders ...and wait there was another one occupying the seat in front of the doctor,whom I would call "ahli mesyuarat tingkap" (borrowed words from Do Re Mi film).
The doctor asked big baby to occupy the seat next to him.He started to write,check and sometimes stop for 10 seconds or so to talk to that ahli mesyuarat tingkap.As they were talking in English,not mandarin or tamil, I couldnt help myself from eavesdropping.They were talking about their friend who is now a free-lance surgeon and making big bucks.I understood well... but in my faded pink blouse and slipper they possibly thought that I was just a dumb orang kampung.

I was trying to relate this to my kind of situation.What if I were in my mid-teaching and suddenly one of my colleagues appeared at the doorway and asking about this friend and that friend.Would I stop and entertain my colleague?If I did,well I am bound to receive complaints from students and parents.But here these two young doctors simply mixing work and play,entertaining his friend while attending a patient!I wonder what they learned at their induction courses or PTK courses..and ........I wonder where their boss was...when the cat was not around,the rats were all over the ground...

Anyhow,I managed to get everything done before 4 pm.For the next medical examination,I am definitely going to get it done at one of the general hospitals...I know it is crowded but the service is far more efficient...

Hari Penuh Emosi...

2010-03-11T02:29:00.000-08:00

Begitu lega hati ini ...tuhan saja yang tahu...
Betapa bersyukurnya aku...tuhan saja yang tahu..
Begitu sukarnya jalan yang pernah ku lalui... tuhan saja yang tahu akan hikmahnya
Aku tempuhi...aku redah...aku pikul...aku bertahan...
Hingga satu ketika aku hampir tersungkur...
Aku hilang arah...
Dek tikaman dari belakang..

Tetapi ...
Demi mata-mata jernih yang penuh pengharapan di hadapanku
Demi tangan-tangan kecil yang mengapai ke arahku
Demi muka-muka comel yang tidak mengerti lagi akan sebuah kehidupan..
Aku buangkan ego diri
Aku korbankan kepentingan diri
Aku ketepikan perasaan hati
Aku gaulkan kekuatan yang aku ada
Emosi..mental..rohani... fizikal...
Aku bangun...
Aku lawan...
Aku tentang...

Hari ini...
Airmata kesedihanku yang lalu
Telah Kau gantikan dengan butiran airmata kegembiraan

Aku percaya..
Kebaikan yang aku tabur...kebaikan yang aku dapat
Kesengsaraan yang aku lalui...kenikmatan yang aku kecapi di penghujungnya
Kesabaran yang aku tanggung...kejayaan yang aku perolehi
Bagai hukum karma...

Hari ini tuhan memberikan aku sebuah kebahagiaan...
Membolehkan aku tersenyum ...sepuas-puasnya
Walau pun aku tahu perjalanan masih jauh
Aku yakin...aku tahu...aku percaya
Kau akan sentiasa menyayangi diri ku....

Oh Tuhan...
Ku panjatkan kesyukuran yang tidak terhingga kepada mu...

The last count down is over...

2010-03-10T23:37:00.000-08:00

Sorry Along...mommy dearest cannot be there to share the joyous moments...Congratulations for getting straight A s...Mommy is proud of you.Have a safe journey back to your college...

A very special day indeed...

2010-02-26T06:43:00.002-08:00

It is a very special day today.First, it is the birthday of our dearest Prophet Muhammad (saw). Secondly, all Malaysians get a day off, so it is going to be a long week-end this week.
However ,it is even more special to me because today is my birthday ...

May Allah shower me with his blessing,love and mercy....

Looking For The Fairy Princess

2010-02-16T15:59:00.000-08:00

The unbearable heat,the unbeatable noise and the suffocating dust seemed to force me to make full use of the CNY break.Hence, I found myself already on my way to Gunung Ledang National Park to rest and rejuvenate my body and soul for a day or two.
We headed towards the foot of the mountain, but what awaited us was quite disheartening at first..we had to find our way through a dusty untarred road criss crossing a vast oil palm plantation.

Orange dust rising up as tyres hit uneven surfaces..

Gunung Ledang National Park is located at the border of Melaka, Johor and Negeri Sembilan.It is about an hour's drive from Muar town and one has to pass through Tangkak and later drive through a small estate town called Sagil.About 1 km from Sagil,there is a sign board that leads to this park.

However,one has to pass through a security check point before entering the leading road.Only those who have made a reservation are allowed to enter.

This national park was opened in July 2003.The mountain range is a conservation area and also a water catchment area that supplies clean water to the population of Melaka and Johor.There are 13 rivers that run through the area but only 2 are popular and open for recreational purposes.These are Ayer Putih River and Ayer Panas River.This park possesses the most beautiful waterfall.Popular activities are mountain climbing,jungle trekking,picnicking or just relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty and cool invigorating mountain air.The place is also rich in biodiversity of flora and fauna.

Welcome to Gunung Ledang National Park

The operation center.

Some of the chalets...for standard chalet with two rooms and a kitchen, it is rm 200 per night and for deluxe it is rm 270 Once checking in,we started to think about dinner.

Trying to lit up the fire.Come on soldier..I'm sure you are quite used to this kind of life

Iron Chef imported from Bank Negara

Our dinner is ready

Borderless knowledge amidst this greeneries...

Taman Orkid with countless species of orchid..

Taman Periuk Kera.There is more than one species of periuk kera

Little photographer busy taking shots that amused him

'Si Bujang' is part of the population in the park

The locals believe that the fairy princess of Gunung Ledang still lives on the mountain, as on occasions some mountain climbers claim to have seen the princess while climbing..
Taking a canopy walk and hoping to see the fairy princess.
The root of one ancient tree turns 'Pintu Gerbang'

Looking for the best spot

Due to dry season the water in Sg Air Puteh is quite shallowThe two siblings, si Putih n si Hitam, definitely having a good time soaking in the cool, clean and crystal clear water

You can also experience fish spa/therapy to get rid of dead cell on your feet free of charge.

Sungai Air Putih Waterfall
Cool refreshing cascading waterfall

A group of PELAPES from UPM checking in for mountain climbing
Will come again definitely...

On our way back we stopped at this stall ...
to savour the delicious cendol pulut...

New school, new scene...

2010-02-05T23:45:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for the weekly assembly
Cadet Officer is reporting the present strength to the officer Lt . MG ...gosh !Yours truly has definitely "enlarged"... front way,back way and sideways..In class...what s the joke cadets???
In action,listening to their officer
Before the beginning of each lesson

Green green sea or lautan hijau of almost 1800 cadets and officers
At the front row is the school Elite CadetsSinging the National Anthem,Malacca Anthem,School song and KRS song

Dear Along...

2010-01-20T02:50:00.000-08:00

Dear Along,
I am so happy today...You get through your interview to pursue your studies in Australia.The offer came yesterday through a phone call from MARA.
Though SPM result is still two or three months away,you have managed to get a sponsor son.I am happy for you.At least now you have better things to do,instead of being a couch potato and with your PSP all the time, which frankly speaking have made me quite worried and angry sometimes!
I am sad at the same time son.For the last one month, things have been very comfortable at home with you around.Now the house will be quieter and no handy man.No co driver to drive the car into the garage,no 'bibik' to hang the clothes in the morning when I am rushing for school,no partner to watch late night movies.no guard to check the gate and the doors at night...and of course I am going to lose my helper in the kitchen too.Nobody to order around if Ifah and Big Baby ever want some fries or burger or even telur mata kerbau.I am going to miss your cabonara too!
But mommy dearest must not be selfish.You have your future in front of you to plan and shape. Go ahead dear son.Focus on your two years preparatory program so you can get into a renown uni down under.My time has passed and I have accomplished part of my dream and now it is your time to chase your dream and make it come true.Do your best and my doa is always with you.
And yes Son...we argue sometimes.Of course,teenagers do not see things exactly like adults.We are two different generations.So any comments, criticism,nagging ets..etc...are all meant for a better self.Do not get me wrong.You know that I will do anything for you,your brother and your sisters as well.You all are precious and greatest gifts from God.
Son,
When you were small,I used to lay awake in the middle of the night,feeling so alone, so vulnerable,so afraid.Would I be able to carry out the trust God has entrusted on me.Would I be able to nurture and educate you well.Could I go wrong somewhere? My mind was bombarded with questions.Then I looked at your sleeping face, and I gained the strength and courage to shoulder on.Yes,our family has ups and downs.And without you son, I might remain beaten,unable to stoop up and build up the broken pieces.You give me strength and you help me to stay tough!
I wish you the best.Provide yourself with enough knowledge and increase your faith in God.Encircle yourself with good people who can inspire you.Last... but the most important thing is do not forget your Solat.Perform every Solat and your life will be on the right direction.Trust me.
Good bye son and step into your new world with confidence....

Congratulations!

2009-12-26T22:49:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Angah for getting 8 As in your PMR.Sorry mommy dearest was so busy with this moving thing that she couldn't bring you to your school to get the result and for you to celebrate with your friends.Anyway...a job well done and hopefully you will continue to excel in whatever you do

MJSC KK Graduation Day

2009-12-12T01:46:00.000-08:00

As early as 7:30 am today,we left home heading towards MJSC KK for Along's graduation ceremony.We stopped at our usual Nasi Kerabu stall.The mak cik,whom my kids called mak cik spec was quite surprise at our early turned up, dressing formally in baju kurung.

We continued our one-hour journey.It was misty all the way through the winding road.We reached the college quite early and again enjoyed another breakfast of fried noodle prepared by the college.

Below are photos of the event ...

My pride and joy...taken before the ceremony.

Students making their entrance
All ready for the ceremony
Concentrate...listening to the speech from the Principal
The College SenateAlong, getting ready for his turn to receive the certificate

Along ranks second and he won the award "Pelajar Serba Boleh".Congratulations son!
The College Senate leaving the hallHappy faces after the ceremony
Angah,Along,Big baby ,Ifah and momy dearestAlong and friend,Farhana
The classmates
With Mom and dadWith friends...till they meet again in MarchFinal pose from Along before leaving the college for good to face the world outside and to discover what the world has in store for him...

Cluttering and de-cluttering

2009-12-05T20:44:00.000-08:00

I have been staying away from my cyber friends for quite a while.Not that my interest towards blog sphere is diminishing but I have been very busy cluttering and de-cluttering all my stuff.It is that time again...where I d be on the road with the whole household heading for the next destination.However,this time the destination is my permanent home sweet home.Good bye to gypsy-like life which I have gone through for the last 17 years.Definitely no regrets at all,no complaints!
I come to a place and learn abundance of new things which add to the store house of knowledge and experience.

I adapt my taste bud to suit to local delicacies,so when ever I my hands are full I can easily buy dishes from the stalls.

I talk with local dialects and slang for easy dealing with local grocers,fruiterers,butchers,fish mongers and even mechanics.

I make new acquaintances and discover the beauty and joy of friendship which I very much hope will last for a life time.Friends are part of my family,who are always by my side through thick and thin, rain or shine.They help me to stand up after several defeats.They aid me to glue up many broken pieces.They guide me to strenghten my faith accept what ever been fated for me.I feel very much at ease at this home away from home.Thank you friends.We may be apart but we ll remain closed at hearts.

I am sorting out my stuff through stages.First,the clothes,which are to keep and which are to give away.
I am sending to my friend's to be distributed to flood victims and the villages.
Then the books and school bags.I have abundant.I am giving away all the primary school books.Some have been taken and some have been sent to Kada to be given to orang asli.

These are to be recycled,waiting for Aboy,the recycling man to pick up.

Paintings and wall portraits have to go down and wrap.

This cupboard is waiting for Along to finish his exam.I assign him to wrap it and also all the "accessories" inside.

Hope to get everything done before the 20th of this month.

Ahhhhhh.....so many things on my mind.

I've learned

2009-11-28T23:08:00.002-08:00

As I was decluttering and sorting out my stuff in the store this morning,I found this piece below.I guess it has remained unopen in my file for more than ten years.The pages have turned slightly yellow.I don't remember the actual source of it but I must have downloaded from the net.

Reading it now at a very ripe age ,I found that there is a sense of truth in these printed words.Here I am sharing it with you my friends.For some I have edited and adapted them to my own experience.

I've learned-
that you cannot make someone love you,
no matter how hard you tried.
All you can do is
be someone who can be loved.
The rest is up to them.

I've learned-
that no matter how much I care
some people just don't care back
so I don't give a damn

I've learned-
that it takes years to build up trust,
and only seconds to destroy it.
Once destroyed difficult to retrieve.

I've learned-
that it's not what you have in your life
but who you have in your life that counts

I've learned-
that no matter how bad
your heart is broken
the world doesn't stop for your grief
so wake up
rebuild the broken pieces

I've learned-
that our background and circumstances
may have influenced who we are
but we are responsible for who we became

I've learned-
that your family won't always
be there for you.It may seem funny,
but people you aren't related to
can take care of you and love you.

I've learned-
that maturity has more to do with
what types of experiences you've had
and what you've learned from them
and less to do with how many
birthday you've celebrated

I've learned-
that just because two people argue,
it doesn't mean they don't love each other
And just because they don't argue,
it doesn't mean they do,

I've learned-
that you shouldn't be so
eager to find out a secret
It could change your life forever
Remain ignorant is the best sometimes!

I've learned-
that you can do something in an instant
that will give you heartache for life.

I've learned-
that it's not what happens to people
that's important.It's what they do about it.

I've learned-
that you shouldn't compare
yourself to the best of others can do
but to the best you can do

I've learned-
that credentials on the wall
do not make you a decent human being

I've learned-
that no matter how good a friend is,
they're going to hurt you
every once in a while
and you must forgive that

I've learned-
that regardless of how hot and steamy
a relationship is at first,
the passion fades and there had better be
something else to take its place.

Enjoy reading.....

Our last raya here

2009-11-27T05:25:00.000-08:00

Since this Hari Raya Qurban is going to be our last hari raya in negeri Cik Siti Wan Kembang,we decided not to go back celebrating it at our home town.Besides, Along is in his mid SPM exam. I rather not leave him here struggling on his own.There is a four-day break before the next paper which is Biology.He came back and took the opportunity to join extra class at my school.

Whether we are celebrating hari raya at home or di perantauan,I will always cook my mom's Johor delicacies.So yesterday morning I spent time looking for the ingredients and in the evening I used my time to the fullest cooking nasi empit,kuah kacang,kari daging and rendang ayam.For kuah lodeh I always cook in the morning of hari raya.At first I wanted to leave curry daging for my other half because that is his speciality.But after discovering he was still in Bentong at 4:00 pm and the road was packed with vehicles ,so I decided not to wait for him.I cooked the Johor version of kari daging.Dear hubby,please accept my apology if my curry is not up to your expectation,your kari utara!

He reached home at 3:40 this morning.The journey from KL to KB took more than twelve hours!It seems anak-anak Kelantan di perantauan would not want to miss the chance of celebrating Hari Raya and doing the Qurban at their home sweet home.

Since the amount of food I cooked could last for few days,so today after solat hari raya, we spent time eating and sleeping alternately.We did our Qurban at home so we were left with nothing to do all day.By Asar, we were bored to death so I suggested that we go somewhere.There is no relative to visit here.Friends' invitations are mostly for tomorrow,so we just headed for KB.Angah suggested we go bowling but when we reached KB town everything is closed.Even the biggest shopping mall in KB stops its operation today.So, how to bowl kids???

Even at this traffic lights there aren't many cars.
On normal days this road which leads to hospital is very busy.Today it is lonely and almost deserted.

A lonely drive here.Maidin and Pantai Timur Supermarket are located along this road.On other days this road will be packed with vehicles moving at snail pace.

Where are those anak-anak Kelantan pulang dari perantauan.They surely aren't patronizing the streets of KB.Maybe busy in their backyard slaughtering cows and preparing for bekwah
It seems only us on this road.

We finally end up at Pizza Hut.
Since the nasi kerabu stall,nasi dagang stall,nasi air stall etc..etc..are closed,so the crowd at Pizza Hut is bigger than usual.The waiting is extraordinary long,we kill the time by snapping a few pic.

Mommy and daughter

Father and daughter
We left KB after performing our maghrib at Muhammadi mosque.On the way back we wanted to stop at TESCO to do our groceries.But TESCO is closed too.

Looks like this hypermarket is receiving a different set of guests for hari raya aidil adha...

This and that

2009-11-24T04:11:00.000-08:00

Today is the fifth day of our SPM examination.Many unexpected incidents have occurred since the first day.

Due to continuous rain,many students turned up late for the first paper,Bahasa Melayu.When I asked why,their response was they couldn't get out from their house since it was raining quite heavily that morning.They came in damp clothes and wet shoes.Pity them.They had no choice but to answer questions in cold and wet clothes.

Then in the afternoon, one of the students,Hazizul,was involved in an accident.While he was riding on his motorcycle on a wet and slippery road,a car came from behind and knocked him down.He was brought to the clinic.We thought that he was going to miss his BM paper 2.However, God is the most merciful and the best planer.That afternoon when the chief invigilator opened up the question package,it was found that English 1119 Paper was inside the BM package .The chief quickly put back the questions and sealed.He didn't open the question or else he would have to be quarantined for the whole night.As for the students they were quarantined for one hour in the hall,waiting for the set of BM paper 2 to arrive from JPN which is 25 km away.

As for Hazizul, he managed to be brought back to school after treatment, just in time for BM paper 2 to start.The paper started at 3:00 pm,an hour later.So Hazizul,despite the accident you are still considered lucky.You still can sit for the paper,in pain though.

On the fourth day,which was yesterday,again some of the students could not reach school on time.Certain kampungs were flooded.Some came in ordinary clothing and slippers and changed into school uniform once they reached school.

To play safe and to avoid from getting stranded,some of them decided to take shelter from their friends' houses.My sympathy is for them .What if they were my children,I would be worried to death.These students are considered strong, mentally and physically,able to endure the rain and the flood to fulfill their parents' hopes and realize their dreams.Bravo kids!

Should the school administrators have opened up the hostel at this time ,these difficulties could be reduced and any misfortune could be avoided.I am just an ordinary teacher who does not have a say on this matter but could only give my helping hand when needed.I hope these misfortunes will serve as a guidance on how to act and what to plan for next year.

Rain...rain ..misty rain...

2009-11-21T02:18:00.000-08:00

It has been raining intermittently for the past few days.Sometimes it is only a drizzle and at other times its a downpour.Everything is wet and cold.The black clouds are still looming in the sky.My judgement is,after being in the east coast for more than 7 years,there is going to be more rain this week.After all it is monsoon season.

And as much as I would like to curl up on the sofa and watch TV all day long,I still could not disappoint Along.Time to visit him today.I haven't met him since he started his exam last Wednesday.So, I have to get up ,do marketing ,cook and drive to Kuala Krai to have lunch with him.Luckily,the father is around this weekend, so he does the driving.What a relief!

Again it is raining through out the journey.I manage to snap a few scenes of flooded areas.
The oil palm trees are soaked too

Wet slippery road

Paddy fields turn into a lake
The mosque where we usually stop for Asar is flooded too.
Some of the houses
Rain rain misty rain

Finding refuge

Sometimes rain brings disaster.It destroys not only properties but lives too.On the other hand,livelihood flourishes during rainy season.Like this Mak Cik below,rain is a blessing to her.Rain brings in good income.

You can get all kinds of ubi at this Mak Cik's stall.I do not even know the name of some ubi here.So I take time to learn from her.

This is called Ubi Badak.Maybe because it resembles rhino's foot

I am familiar with this one...ubi keledek
I forgot this one...Do you know?

This is called ubi itik.
Ubi kayu.
Pumpkins...
There are many other stalls selling various kinds of ubi too.

Other half buying ubi kayu and ubi keledek.So our dinner tonight is ubi rebus with sambal tumis.No complain kids!

Ubi...
bermacam ubi...
ada ubi kayu,ubi keledek,ubi badak,ubi itik.......

Congratulations!

2009-11-19T05:39:00.000-08:00

It was around 11:00 am this morning.I was still trapped in the meeting room at JPN.My hand phone suddenly rang.A glance at the number, I knew it was from my big baby.I promised him earlier that I would be in his school for the announcement of the UPSR results.The school had invited the parents to give away the results to the children

Mama datang tak?Cikgu nak announce dah result.

Mama tak boleh datang.Kerja mama tak settle lagi.

Emmm.. tak pe lah.He sounded sad.

OK dapat result call mama nanti.

But I didnt wait for his call.Everybody in the family was so eager to know his results.The father called twice,his auntie and uncle smsed me,even his tok wan was interested and excited to know.

So,I gave his teacher a call...

At around 12:00, big baby called again.

Ma, dapat dah result.He sounded excited.

Oh yeah...so how is it?

I pretended not knowing his results yet.Actually I wanted to make him happy by being the first person to deliver the good news.

5 As mama.

Alhamdulillah...

Siapa sampaikan results pada ijat?

Gurubesarlah...dah mama tak datang.Orang lain seronok kena peluk dengan mama dia.

Nevermind...nanti balik rumah mama give you a hug ok.

Ok , bye.

I reached his school at 2:30 pm.He was already waiting for me in the canteen.I looked at him, to see if there was any sign of frustration on his face.

No..no..he looked very happy and contented.

Mommy dearest felt happy and the guilty feeling slowly disappeared...

Best of luck!

2009-11-17T02:50:00.000-08:00

To all SPM candidates,I wish you all the very best of luck,especially to all my students and not forgetting my Along.Semoga ditenangkan fikian dan dilapangkan dada serta dapat menjawab dengan cemerlang dan mengikut skema.

So , tonight I am going to miss my line dancing class for the second time.No...no.. I am not going to sit down with Along to do last minute revision.In fact, he is not at home but safe and sound at his hostel.Let us just say tonight mommy dearest has to do what a mommy got to do.

Finally ....the last exam in the family this year.The last count down...May Allah bless us all.

Three in one

2009-11-14T02:22:00.000-08:00

I have a function to attend today.It is our annual lunch, for the teachers and staff of SMK ....It is also a farewell lunch for those who have transfered this year and those who are going on transfer next year.And another event is a birthday celebration for one of the teachers.All in one function...

So that means I have to cook something for big baby and daughter Ifah before leaving home sweet home.Besides,I can enjoy my lunch without any feeling of guilt and thinking of my starving kids at home.

For Big baby,I hope you will enjoy your lunch of nasi lemak,ayam pedas and sambal telur.

Ifah , since your taste bud is like "Mat Salleh's", mommy dearest cook Spaghetti and meat sauce for you.

Registration...

The arrival of our Principal,Pn Che Natrah Che Ishak.

Ladies from the labs

The Principal giving a speech...panjang jugak we...since she has been out of school for a week.

These two ladies,K Zah and Mdm Tong have been eating non-stop

Who is the story-teller here...everybody looks so serious..

Our chief clerk and warden kak ani

The two MCs, Pn Siti and Pn Kamariah

Before leaving,the ladies took a few shots

Yours truly with Madam Tong

Cheers ladies...all of you going home with ole-ole.We receive lots of hampers.

Pn.Azizah gets the title "The glamourest" lady.

With Pn Wan Norhayati

Happy Birthday Uztadz...

Wrapping up

2009-11-12T02:10:00.000-08:00

School term has come to its end.But the workload is increasing...like bullets flying from a machine gun attacking me from all sides...

Lessons to conclude...

Fees account to close...

Stocks to count...

Textbooks to collect...

Leaving certificates to type...

Language room to clean and keys to return...

Co-curricular grades to key in...

Register to close...

Library books to return

Name of debtors to type...

Panel files to update and return to its safe...

Next year's classes to allocate...

Next year's activities to plan,type and submit...

.....................

.....................

Before they can let me go

Back to... home sweet home down South

And this time round... it is for good

Hopefully!

It is just another ordinary day.....

2009-11-10T06:33:00.001-08:00

No New Year's Day to celebrate
No chocolate covered candy hearts to give away
No first of spring
No song to sing
In fact, here is just another ordinary day

No April rain
No flowers bloom
No wedding Saturday within the month of June
No summer's high
No warm July
No harvest moon to light one tender August night

No autumn breeze
No falling leaves
Not even time for birds to fly in Southern skies
No Libra sun
No Halloween
No giving thanks to all the Christmas joy you bring
But what it is,it s something true
Only that few words I receive in sms from you....

....Happy 18 th anniversary to my other half....

Good luck Ifah!

2009-11-10T05:31:00.000-08:00

No dancing class tonight...no cha cha...no pocho pocho...no makarama...none..

Daughter Ifah is sitting for her finals tomorrow.The results will determine the class she will be in next year.

Tomorrow is her BM and Mathematics papers.

So tonight I am sitting with her coaching on her Mathematics,the topic on Polygon.

While she is doing the sums, I steal some time to update my blog.

Daughter Ifah has to do lots of practice since she is not feeling well lately and has missed her classes a few times.

Mommy understands..and mommy does not want to force you.

But because you show a bit of improvement these few days,mommy want you to study

I hope I am not torturing you, ok dear

Mommy dearest can only hope you try your best, and the greatest ONE up there will do the rest

My Malaysia

2009-11-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Angah,
Because you were so forgetful yesterday to bring along the choral speaking script for your inter-dorm competition,mommy dearest is posting the script here.Good luck...

My Malaysia

Malaysia?
Yes Malaysia
My Malaysia
A multi racial society
A land of many colorful festivals and celebrations
Malay,Chinese and Indians
Dayak,Dusun and Iban..to name a few
Islam,Buddhism and Christianity
Hinduism and others are the religions
All celebrate the big day ...at different times of the year
With vibrant festivals,traditional dances and drama

Hari Raya Aidil Fitri is celebrated by Muslims
Tick Tock..its 4:30 in the morning
Wake up..wake up...
Mum...yes dear
I'm sleepy
I don't want to wake up
Its the fasting month of Ramadhan

Dum dum dum
Hari Raya is coming
The balik kampong joy begins
Leaving the big cities empty...like ghost town
Starts the big day in the mosque
Performing the prayer
And visiting the graves of the departed
Colorful baju kebaya and baju melayu don the day
Rendang and ketupat fill the table ...and my stomach!

Ding Dong...Ding Dong...
Its Christmas in December
Its winter free here...but still as merry as ever
Ho ho ho...
Santa Clause is coming
With white beard and red robe
Christmas presents on his back
Little children are so happy
The presents they get.

Then comes the Chinese New Year
With various animals attached to its names
And the red angpow makes it so distinct
The cheongsam makes the ladies beautiful
Just like...the classic Chinese movies
Fire crackers???
No..no..no..its 1000 ringgit ine
Or a month's jail
Wow!!!

Deepavali is a show of saris
Just like in Bollywood or Mumbai
Also known as the festival of light
All the estates become bright
Muruku being the delight
A little India in Malaysia
With Malaysian taste and flavour
India made in Malaysia.

Next we have the Thaipusam
Celebrated on the 10th month of the Hindu calendar
Hindus believe that sins can be cleansed today
Thousands of devotees and visitors throng Batu Caves
'Kavadis'..on their shoulders or backs
Fresh coconuts were smashed...but not to be cooked!
A sight tourists will never forget

Banglow...no!
Semi-d...no!
Condo...NO!
Longhouse? yes..yes..
The Sarawak Dayaks live in longhouse
Gawai is their celebration
To celebrate the season of rice harvesting
And the new planting season
All through the days of this exotic festival
Are filled with laughter...ha..ha..ha..
Drinking..
Danicng..
And merry making

November and December
Its raining season in the east coast
But its fiesta time in Penang
A carnival-like Pesta Pulau Pinang
Songs..dances..cultural shows
Food stalls...
Games...roller-coaster
Handicraft..you name it
Pesta Pulau Pinang has everything to offer
Mini Malaysia in Pulau Pinang.

A two-week affair in September
Malaysia Fest offers Malaysian culture,craft and cuisine
A scene you will always remember
...and treasure.

Malaysia..
Beautiful Malaysia
Malaysia...truly Asia

Good luck also for your farewell dinner tonight!

Two Roads Diverged in a Yellow Wood

2009-10-30T01:26:00.001-07:00

Who says making decision is easy?We have been making decisions through out our lives, still there are times where we are not sure whether the decision we make is the wisest.

I have been managing the household alone most of the time,however,it does not make decision-making any easier. I have to make choices, from the simplest decision like what do I cook for breakfast so that none of my kids sulk in front of their meal and go to school happily with a full stomach, to a matter of life and death,such as should I bring the kid to hospital now,at 3:00 in the morning or should I wait for the first streak of dawn.It is hard, especially for somebody who is fickled- minded like me.And what makes it harder is I am accountable and responsible for the
decision that I make.Besides, everything must be answerable in front of the big boss....aahhhh...

Last night when daughter Ifah was running a high temperature and trembling for almost 20 minutes, I was again confused.Should I just rely on the previous Ifimol tablet prescribed earlier by her paediatrician and just sponge her body or should I bring her to the 24-hour clinic.Any dotted mother will quickly bundle up her kid and head for the clinic.But not me..

Daughter Ifah trembling under the comforter in the living room ...

I hate bringing her to clinics.The doctor will again prescribe some medications and antibiotics which she has to swallow until finish.Daughter Ifah had been on medication for a long time,swallowing one antibiotic after another due to her illness.I fear the effect of medications will take its toll on her body in the long run.That is the reason.I prefer to resort to some traditional remedies but where do I get that at midnight last night????

Finally...after waiting for half an hour and Ifah was not showing any slight improvement,I drove to the clinic.But wait...I had to stop at ATM first to draw some money.Earlier that afternoon I just paid my astro,telephone and broadband bills ,so I was short of cash.I drew the money from ATM machine at Econjaya,and fortunately there was a guard on duty who in a way has made me feel safer.

The doctor gave her a jab and prescribed about 5 types of medications.Then he asked Ifah to take a bath from head to toe upon reaching home.Taking a bath at 12 midnight is something not very encouraging especially by orang tua-tua, sebab nanti paru-paru masuk air.How do the shower get into the lung ***##?? am trying to figure out...

After everything settled,daughter Ifah got under her duvet and slept soundly and calmly.Her temperature running low through out the night.

When the azan called for Suboh,mommy dearest woke up and headed straight for the bathroom, to bathe and take ablution.Little did she realise she still cannot pray ...Mommy dearest dived back into the comfort of her duvet...One chaotic night has turned mommy dearest into forgetful person.

Another important decision-making has to be made this morning. Along called, telling Mommy about the fast-trek program which is offered to him.With a much higher standard of requirement this year, only three students in his college are offered a place.Yet they still have to go for an interview which is right after their SPM.Along could not decide as what course to choose and where to go.He is interested to do marine engineering, if possible, abroad.But engineering is offered locally at UTP.Only medicine is offered abroad, a field which Along is not interested at all.

As mommy dearest could not decide for Along,she advised him to sembahyang istikharah first.I know there is no 100% guarantee that he can get it...but what if he gets... he has to decide wisely because this is something that will affect his future.

Good luck dear son...my final advice is follow your heart and interest!You are the one who is going to go through the gruesome years of jihad.

Quoting from Robert Frost's "The road not taken"

"I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence;
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and I...
I took the one less traveled by
And that has made all the difference"

Just remember,whatever decision you are making now Along,it will make what and who you are in years to come.

Simple Pleasures in Life

2009-10-28T01:50:00.000-07:00

Once in a while I just want to divert from the routine,especially after being so bogged down with work,family and other miserable,worldly matters that can drive me nuts.

So when my colleague, Madam Tong invited me to join her line dancing class,I readily accepted the invitation without giving much thought.Why me?For she knows that I am very interested in this kind of activity and if ever held at school,I would be one of the very few lady teachers to join in.

Last night was my first session.When the time came,I started to feel a bit sceptical leaving my two teenagers at home.

So I asked daughter Ifah..

Mommy: Ok tak kalau Ma pi dancing class malam ni?

Daughter: Pi la Ma..

Mommy: Tak apa ke tinggal kat umah...Sara, aunty Tong's daughter is joining the class too.

Daughter: Tak pe lah ma..kita orang tak takut.

Mommy: Kalau gitu Ma pi ya..

Daughter: Pi lah Ma...enjoy yourself..

So I left the house with a not-so-guilty feeling..

The class is filled with somewhat 20 to 30 Ah Sos.There are only 3 Malay ladies and I am the only one with a tudung.

The class is held at an open basketball court,about 3 to 4 minutes' drive from my house.

It was a good two-hour sweating and calorie burning session.During a 5-minute break I went to my car to get a bottled drink.Lurking in the darkness next to my car was one Ah So.I almost jumped when she said to me...

Ah So: Wa, manyak peluh ha..

Me: Yalah nyonya..mari join kita orang.

Ah So: Nanti-nanti...

Then she look at my sneakers

Ah So: Lu beli itu kasut mana?(asking about my dancing shoes cum jogging shoes cum aerobic shoes).

Me: Kat KB mall.

Ah So: Mahat (expensive) tak?

Me: Itu 40 ringgit saja..

Ah So: Tunggu.. saya beli ha,nanti saya mau join juga..

Me: Nyonya datang minggu depan,ini jam..

Ah So: Ada baya ka?

Me: 3 ringgit saja...

Ah So: Ini sampai pukut brapa?

Me: Sepuluh...

Then hearing the blaring music again, she quickly said to me

Ah So: Ok..Ok..lu pegi sambung lagi..

So I left the Ah So (in fact there were many other peeping toms)to continue watching us in the darkness..

We continued pacing and stamping our steps following the beautiful music of Cha cha,poco-poco,Maakarama(dont know if I got it right)and one Siamese dance.All are in Chinese lyrics..hehehe..

I am catching up slowly with all except the Cha cha where I am still ?*#+? blurrrrrr.

But who cares..the most important thing is I feel soooo relief mentally and my body feels sooooo light...

These are simple pleasures in my life...

On marriage

2009-10-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

This morning I received a wedding invitation card from my colleague.Apart from the beautiful and charming pictures of the bride and bridegroom there is another thing that caught my eyes and struck my heart...the beautiful phrases written on the card which I am going to share with you here to ponder...

Tak Perlu Mencari Teman Secantik Balqis,
Andai Diri Tak sehebat Sulaiman..

Mengapa Mengharapkan Teman Setampan Yusuf,
Jika Kasih Tak Setulus Zulaikha..

Tak Perlu Mengharap Teman Seteguh Ibrahim,
Andai diri tak Sekuat Siti Hajar..

Dan Mengapa Didambakan Teman Hidup Bak Siti Khadijah,
Kalau Diri Tak Sesempurna Rasulullah S.A.W..

Bimbinglah Dirinya dan Terimalah

Kekurangan Itu Sebagai Keunikan..

Carilah Kebaikan Pada Dirinya..

Bersyukurlah kerana dipertemukan

Dengannya

Dan tetaplah berdoa

Agar dia kekal menjadi milik kita

Amin Ya Rabbal A'lamin.

Indeed this is a good guidance for newly married couples and a good muhasabah
for the veterans...

A luncheon date with Along

2009-10-24T01:11:00.000-07:00

When I first decided to join the blog sphere,it was merely for the sake of killing the time.My posts range from past experience to something very closed to my heart,my children.Lately I have been writing more on the latter.I just thought it would be better to jot down events that happen around my kids, for them to reminisce in the later part of life.After all, I am just a plain high school teacher(where life is centered around home and school) with a simple mission in life that is to see my children and students develop into good individuals with certain noble values to uphold in life, to keep them on the right path.

So,to my regular trespassers,sorry for this post is again about my children.When it comes to children I always write about Along. I do not know..maybe because he is my firstborn so I have high hopes on him.I want him to be the role model to his younger sisters and brother.I want him to set and pave the way to the right direction so his siblings could follow.

Now UPSR is over.PMR is over too.For mommy dearest this brought a little bit of relief,at least for the time being.There is only one more countdown, that is to SPM.

When PMR was approaching, I had been making my way to my Angah's school every weekend to guide her on her PMR preparations.Now it is over and it is time for me to make up the lost time that I should be with Along.So ,when he called me last night,I had no excuse of not meeting him today.

As early as 7:00 am this morning I was already up and about in the kitchen.First I had to defrost the chicken for I planned to cook chicken rice today and had lunch at Along's college.While the iced chicken was doing the defrosting, I brought out wet clothes to be hung outside.Why wet?Yes ...my washing machine is jammed for it can't spin.I had called the Panasonic agent ,but they said they could only come the soonest on Sunday.So ,I have to wring wet clothes which are rather wet and messy for 2 days.

After all the clothes were on the cloth-line,I got into the house to do a bit of cleaning.I am very particular when it comes to dust,so I would sweep almost every day.When it was done and the chicken was a bit defrosted,I started cooking.Everything was done at about 11:00 am.By 11:30 am I was on my way to Along's college.

As usual,mommy dearest will have to bring extra food for his friends.Along will ask the same question every time,"Ma bawa makanan lebih tak?"

Then he will invite his friends to join us.Living and growing up together under the same roof for the last five years have made them very closed, like brothers.

Mommy and son enjoying their lunch

Along's sanctuary for the last five years...

After lunch,we discussed about their studies.They are having extra classes almost every day, even on Fridays.Their days will start at 7:30 am right until 10:30 pm with of course a few breaks for meals,solat and riadah.There are times when the teacher will extend up to 12:30 midnight.Phew...they are in full steam now.They have to, for starting this year the Examination Syndicate will categorise A grade into 3 levels; A+,A and A-.So, only the cream will get the best offer!

We talked about their plans after SPM.It seemed that all of them hope to get selected into fast trek program.They are now still waiting for the offer.Hopefully this year the respective sponsors are still offering fast trek program to those students who achieve flying colors result in their SPM trials.

So, best of luck children, both in your SPM and for a place in fast trek program.

PMR

2009-10-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Best of luck to all PMR candidates,especially to my Angah.Semoga ditenangkan hati,ditenteramkan jiwa dan dapat menjawab dengan cemerlang.Yes...you can do it!!!

Happy Birthday

2009-10-03T00:45:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to my big-baby boy,
Wish your life ahead be filled with joy,
Always remember age is only a date,
You are the one who determine your own fate,
Study hard,work hard and uphold good values,
Success and triumph will embrace you,
May Allah blessed you with happiness and wealth,
And not to forget a clean bill of health,

Happy 12th birthday,
Many happy returns of the day.

Driving at two something...

2009-09-28T04:03:00.000-07:00

After enjoying a one-week hari raya break with non-stop eating and visiting around beloved kampung, yours truly and the clan started to pack up their things and find their way back to their home away from home,the nasi kerabu land.

Our actual plan was to shoot off on Thursday morning, 5 th Syawal because angah had to be at her hostel by 8 pm.However, as usual, things turned out differently.

My other half who at the moment is so obsessed with his oil palm trees spent most of his hari raya in his kebun.In fact dia beraya dalam kebunnya in his loreng uniform (of course minus the M16),except on the first of Syawal.

So on that particular Thursday morning,again he was in his kebun.Although I had reminded him to be back by ten,so we could meet the curfew time,he seemed to get carried away with his work and came back at almost 3:00pm!

Without much choice left,we left my dad's house at 5:00 pm and angah had to ponteng her extra class that night.

At first the journey was smoothly run,leaving Muar,Tangkak and passing by Segamat,Bandar Muaazam and Kuantan.I was amazed at my other half's strength, to be able to drive 4 hours non-stop and what more after spending three-quarter of the day at his kebun under the hot sun.He didn't even complain of being sleepy or tired.As for me, I would be in and out of my slumber land..

When we reached Kuantan,big baby started to feel hungry and hubby decided to hit Kuantan city center to find a good decent restaurant.However, due to time constraint I protested and suggested we just grabbed any snack sold by the road side.I didn't want angah to ponteng her class the next day.So, my hubby continued driving until we got to R n R at Bandar Al-Muktafibillah Shah.Of course R & R in the east coast area is not as good as the ones along the North South highway.We had no choice but to choose either nasi goreng kampung or mee goreng Singapore.Since our stomach was already making all kinds of music, especially big baby's,we just took whatever they offered.

Then our journey continued to Bukit Besi and Kuala Berang.Exactly in the mid-town of Kuala Berang, hubby started to yawn non-stop.Had I not asked him to stop, he would continue driving.The time was almost 12:50 am when he finally swerved to the roadside and brought the car to a halt.I let him sleep and as for me I was contented enough to just sitting silently and listening to the snores and the whistles of the others.Although I felt wide awake,I did not have the courage to take over the driver's seat at that time of the night.

An hour passed and I woke my hubby and asked him to continue the journey or else we would not be able to reach home before morning.After driving for half an hour,again he started to yawn.This time I didn't ask him to stop for I had to get angah to her school before 8 the next morning.However , his driving seemed to get from bad to worse,our car was swaying to the left and right.Of course I didn't want to join this year's "statistic",so the best thing to do was to ask him to stop.This time I braved myself to take over the driving.

At Sungai Tong I took the lead and drove the car in the silence of the morning on the not so busy road.In the darkness I manoeuvered the not so familiar road carefully and slowly.Everything was quiet except for the kkkrooohhh and khraaah sounds that came from the back seats.A few times my hubby talked in his sleep but I didn't interrupt him, instead let him do the talking alone.Luckily what came out was nothing secretive.

I tried to tune to the radio station but the reception was not clear.So I pushed in the cassette of Koranic verses by Abdul Rahman Sudaish.A few vehicles overtook mine including the Gardenia bread van.But when another and another gardenia bread vans overtook me (three times) my mind started drifting to eerie story that I had heard from a friend....a story about the same yellow volkswagon overtaking a car for a couple of times.As much as I wanted to wipe out those frightening thoughts,more and more creepy stories came to my mind.I started to remember a story of a white figure flying across the windscreen of my neighbour's car as he was driving at midnight somewhere along Ayer Keroh highway.Another story from my cousin who had had an encounter with a long haired legless woman sitting on a big rock by the road leading to his kampung...another and another story which I read in 'Mastika' seemed to occupy my mind.At the same time I couldn't help myself from looking at the back screen through the front mirror ..Silly me I know..

I was deep in my train of thoughts that I didn't realise I was approaching Jerteh.It was 3:30 am when I shook my hubby to ask him to continue with the rest of the journey.He took over but not for long because he was stopped by a roadblock.Still in a daze,my hubby couldn't figure out the traffic offence he committed that time.The police officer patiently told hubby that not only he overtaking on a bridge but at a double line too.Wow...Surely a few bucks would be flying away from his pocket.But when the officer looked at hubby's identification card,he closed his summon book and advised hubby to drive carefully and follow the rules even at the wee hours of the morning.

We reached home sweet home at 4:00 am.The next morning,Friday, at 7:00 am I was already on my way sending angah to her hostel.

Along left the next day,Ssaturday,for his college, while hubby drove back to KL on Sunday.

The house is quiet now.

Time to rest and recuperate...

SALAM AIDILFITRI

2009-09-21T15:48:00.000-07:00

The family of Cikgu Nong and cikgu Yon..

The joy of my life.....

Salam aidilfitri kepada semua rakan-rakan,
Semuga kedatangan aidilfitri kali ini membawa bersama-sama kemenangan,
keceriaan dan kegembiraan,
Harapan agar persahabatan yang terjalin di alam cyber ini terus berkekalan,
Walaupun kita belum pernah lagi bedepan,
Kesilapan yang tertulis dan yang menguris hati dapat dimaafkan,
Semuga siratulahim mendapat keberkatan dan dirahmati tuhan....

Khatam Al Quran,Malam Namat....

2009-09-15T01:20:00.000-07:00

A few more days to go before all schools close for Hari Raya break.

So, today at school , we have 'Majlis Khatam Al Quran' or if I may borrow the term from my blogger friend 'Malam Namat'.What if it is done during the day,will it be called Malam Namat too or Hari Namat?Somebody got to help me here.I am new to this term.

It is the day you finish reading the Al Quran, individually or in groups.The reading of Al Quran this Ramadhan is shared among the women teachers only.Each of us is given only a juzuk to read and we are given a certain period to complete before we hold the 'majlis khatam Al Quran'.

So, today I come back from school with a bag of sweet delicacies like jala mas,buah tanjong,tahi itik (0ops..sorry,not the actual tahi itik eh),but kueh tahi itik,akok etc.These are popular traditional kueh mueh in the east coast.

As for my individual reading, I ve still many more juzuk to go.I am moving at snail pace this year since there are so many occasions and programs held in school, including the marking of SPM trial papers.

God willing,I will try my very best to complete before Ramadhan draws its curtain...

UPSR

2009-09-07T14:20:00.000-07:00

Selamat menduduki UPSR kepada semua pelajar-pelajar tahun 6.This include my Big Baby.Semuga ditenangkan hati ketika menjawab soalan,dapat menjawab mengikut skema dan berjaya dengan cemerlang.

On the eve of Ramadhan 1430H

2009-08-21T04:03:00.000-07:00

A pang of loneliness strikes me as my fingers hitting the keyboard this evening.I ll be celebrating the first day of Ramadhan with my children without my other half and family around.Although this should be a normal thing to me,nothing extraordinary, I still cannot wipe out the thoughts of how nice it would be to have our love ones around celebrating the first day of puasa.Maybe because this is a blessed Ramadhan,a month of cleansing the dosa and purifying oneself physically and spiritually, unlike any other months.However, I am still considered lucky for all my kids are back since school holiday has just begun.

This morning while I was stepping out from the house,big baby who is still having a fever,asked what mommy going to cook for sahur.Looks like he was skipping his lunch and dinner...tiba-tiba dah sampai ke sahur.I gather he is so eager to start fasting .I had not made up my mind yet because I had to attend my Risda class first and later only had a quick visit to the market.

I ended my class 20 minutes early with an excuse of I need to do marketing before the stalls closed for Friday prayer.Even when the hour was edging towards 12:30 pm,still there were many people rushing and grabbing for things as if there was no tommorrow. There was only one fishmonger left and looking at the crowd I believe the others must have closed for the day.I grabbed what needed to cook tomyam for sahur.Yes, big baby likes tomyam with telur dadar very much and since he is a bit under the weather, I ll cook his favourites.

I went for terawikh prayer with Along.I didnt have any doubts at first but when the jamaah next to me started to sneeze,I became a bit worried.And the virus definitely did the job well for within minutes, I too started to sneeze ...ouchooo!!.
Tommorrow I will definitely perform my terawikh prayer at home... trying to play safe.

To all my blog readers,I wish you Selamat menyambut Ramadhan yang mulia dan penuh barakah ini.Hopefully I can carry out this ibadah in peace and to the fullest this year.

At the eleventh hour.

2009-08-04T06:08:00.000-07:00

Mommy dearest has been cracking and spinning her head for the past few days thinking of ways to improve her children's studies.Luckily, she doesn't have any kind of heart- related diseases or suffer from high blood pressure or else the chances she might end up in a ward again are very great.

Last week I attended two "majlis rundingcara", one was at my son's college and another was at my daughter's school.This year I have three children sitting for major examinations.Along is sitting for his SPM,Angah for PMR and big baby for UPSR.So , you know the kind of worries ,anticipation, anxieties and turmoil that I am facing...

For Along and big baby, I do not have much problem since they are very consistent in their studies and performances.But for Angah , her latest result leaves me speechless and at wit's end!

I received different responses from the two interaction sessions.Along's teachers gave very encouraging comments and his recent result is something that he should be proud of considering that he missed lots of his classes.

From his Chemistry teacher, "Ridzuan is always busy and he missed three topics when he was away for rugby.Tapi tak pe sebab dia pandai bawa diri.Balik dari training dia terus jumpa saya for coaching.Dia ni saya lantik as mentor in Chemistry."

From his Sejarah teacher, "Mu sibuk lagi We (short form for Ridzuan)Bor..bor..lah.Nok periksa doh ni."

From his Add Math teacher,"Dia orang yang paling sibuk dalam sekolah ni.Kejap pergi rugby,sekejap sibuk ngan Badan Perwakilan Pelajar,sekejap pergi exhibition hinggakan pergi ziarah kematian pun dia.Lucky pick up dia cepat, kalau tidak teruk juga.Dulu saya jadikan dia model dalam kelas saya,tapi sekarang ni pelajaran dah menurun sikit. "

So after the session, I had a long pep talk with along asking him to slow down with his activties.
He promised me that he will focus on his studies from now on since he has let go some of his posts.The election for Badan Perwakilan Pelajar is done, so from now on the fourth formers will take over.The fifth formers can now concentrate on the lessons.Alhamdulillah...

Then I went to Angah's school.The comment I received was not becoming at all. I made a point to see all her subject teachers.
From his Science teacher,"Dia ni pick up sederhana, jadi kena rajin lah.Dalam kelas very responsive dan tidak ada masaalah.Saya tak bimbang dia ni pasal dia tak tau dia tanya."

From his Math teacher, "Saya tak tau apa nak cakap pasal dia ni.It is like dalam kelas dia ni orang lain and bila ambil exam seolah-olah dia jadi orang lain."
I was confused and asked, "kenapa?"
He answered, "Nampak macam dia faham bila dalam kelas, tapi bila exam dia tak boleh menjawab."
Wow..there is a problem here.But all I can think of is she lacks practice in Mathematics.Once she understands how to solve the problems, she should practise it again and again.And to do this,she needs to be hardworking and Angah is definitely not!Self-study which should be the practice of any boarders does not suit her.She has to be reminded continuously, guided closely and even blabbered often to get her to study.And how am I going to do these since she is staying at the hostel???
So, after spinning her head for days, mommy dearest comes to a solution.From this weekend I will visit her every week to sit and study together with her, even if I have to stay the whole day.I cant forsee any other ways to get her to study since she has only 62 days to her PMR.
I have myself to be blamed too.All this while I thought like Along, I could leave everything to her and the teachers.So, I did not give much attention to her and trust her to excel on her own.

To me, there is a blessing in disguise here.Angah's case has made me see that different children learn not only at different pace but under different condition.I also learned that once you put your children in boarding schools you just cant wash your hands clean.You still need to be alert on their activities and guided them closely.

So, now I ve decided to blog less, instead spend more time studying and working with my children.And last night I had been sitting together with daughter Ifah until 11:30 pm to teach and coach her in Math on the topic "Integers".It is not easy for I have to refresh my memory on this.Afterall I left my Mathematics 30 years ago after completing my fifth form.However, the session I had last night with Ifah was satisfaction guaranteed.
I got to go now because the next topic is "Angles" and I have to do my revision first! Bye folks.

From Kisana Beach Resort...

2009-07-24T04:21:00.000-07:00

From 22 nd July to 24 th July,I had been accompanying my students at Kisana Beach Resort,Tok Bali,Pasir Puteh,Kelantan for our yearly camping activities.This camping activity is participated by all the uniform bodies in our school.

The first thing to do upon reaching the site is pitching a tent.

Aisyah is having fun at the same time,showing off her "masculinity"

Cikgu Siti trying to help her members. Have to get the tents ready before it gets dark.
Alis ...what are you doing there?Behind in yellow t-shirt is daughter Ifah,triyng to make herself busy..

Making gadgets

Get the measurement correct girls...

Arent these creative...

Glass holder

These girls have lots of ideas...Making the serving looks attractive.

Our proud chefs..Aisyah,Raja Noraini and Suria.We, the PBSM, got second place..

One of the dishes is Telur Bungkus

Judges, Cikgu Asabul Kafi and Cikgu Nusri are tasting the food...hemm...

Rice served in bamboo.Everybody is trying to impress the judges with their own creativity and style.Fadhilah and Asiah..close your mouth please before your saliva starts drooling on the food..

Background is South China Sea

Previously, this resort was PLKN site

Balance yourself girls..

Good...boleh buat catwalk lepas ni

Push boys!!!! One of the teacher's car got stuck in the sand.Spirit of comradeship..

As usual there are some who like to be the "towkay"

Waiting for the bus to bring us home.....tired but happy.These girs here have worked very hard.

Thank you and I am proud of you.The only torn here is Baihaqi,our loyal ex-student,coming back when he heard we are camping here.

Justice to plants, generous to neighbours

2009-07-17T04:01:00.000-07:00

I have been neglecting my plants for... not 2 days or 2 weeks or 2 months but 2 years,that is since I moved out from the camp to join the civilians.Previously,in the camp, I had my other half's "batman",Corperal Zaini or dearly called Pak cik Awe by my kids, coming every morning to water,trim and fertilise the plants besides ironing my other half's uniforms and polishing his boots and shoes.
So, now the plants grow at the mercy of occasional raindrops.No trimming,no fertiliser and no watering.If these plants could talk, they surely would curse me for being so cruel and mean... Cannot differentiate between the plants and the weeds... "I need air!I am suffocated!"
the plants screamed..

Dried whithered plants...I have not done justice to these plants.

Last week my lady friend asked me,"Kak Mas banyak tanam bunga tak di rumah?"

I said,"Ada but half-dying.."

"Why???"she questioned me.

"I have lost the interest and the passion for plants."I said.

"Kalau I nak mintak sikit boleh tak?"she asked me.

Quickly I responded,"Ambik belako ..ngan pasu-pasu tak pe.."

A man teacher interrupted, "Banyak pasu ke?"

I said,"From small plastic pots where I plant my cactus to a big ceramic pot where I once grew lotus plant."

He said,"I want the big pasu,I want to make a water fountain."

"Come over,sapa cepat dia dapat.." I told him jokingly.

So the next day, he came to my house and carried back happily with him my big pasu which has been with me for almost 10 years.I bought the big pot in Jitra and had been in and out of army trucks whenever I had to move from one state to another.

This evening my lady friend came to dig up a few species of my plants.I gave her 2 pots of cactus.Actually she has just moved into her new bungalow and now enthusiastically planting plants in her garden.I understand how she feels.I even gave her pokok terung which I ve never known of its existence in my backyard until yesterday.

Over a wired fence yesterday my neighbour asked me,"Kak tak makan terung ke?"

I said, "Tak berahi sangat."

She continued and at the same time pointing at the plant,"Padan banyak buah tak di ambil."

Then only I know there is egg plant tree in my backyard,maybe some birds might have dropped the seeds there.

Then she continued,"Nak minta sikit boleh?"

I said,"Ambil lah, banyak pun tak pe.."

Before she left my backyard,I told her feel free to come anytime whenever she wants to eat egg plant.My garden is her garden too.In return, she offered her buah kedondong which grows profusely in her front yard.

This evening, after my lady friend left, I forced myself to do a bit of justice to my plants...weeding and gardening which actually I had planned earlier during the previous school holidays.So these are the outcome..

Weeds cleared off..

"What a relief!Now only I can breathe"Maybe that is what the plants would say...

I get to see the species now..

Finally, my last holiday mission accomplished!

Lu bikin gua susaaaah aje...

2009-07-10T00:05:00.000-07:00

I was quite busy with co-academic language activities these past few days.Teaching in kampung school is not a bed of roses especially if you have to deal with English and have to come out with teams to participate in English activities.For example to come out with a team of 35 students to present a choral speaking is no joke and what more to compete with boarding and premier schools.

The script was written months ago by the teacher not students.Then the students were selected,trained in terms of articulation,pronunciation,gestures,expression,body language in fact from A to Z...Unlike in town schools,here, the teachers instruct everything,even whether to sway the body to the left or right, to move the body like a catterpillar or to remain static .However,what I admire about my "budak kampong" students are the spirit they showed through out the training period and the eagerness to perform in the competition. Never once did they complain of having to stay back until 4 pm and to be called during school holidays.

So on 7 th July,we were ready to compete.Before we left the school,teachers including our principal sent us off with words of encouragement hoping that our spirit will remain soaring.For me to receive a certificate of participation is more than enough.I am not putting high hopes on them for I know who they are competing with.This time would just be some sort of an exposure to them,maybe in the next few years we will give a tough fight..god willing..

We got to perform at 6:00 pm after siting down on a hard chair for four hours without any refreshment.Blame the urusetia for the poor running of the event.My "budak kampong"students performed well, flashing smiles throughout but a bit reserve and not as agressive and expressive as the other teams of town students.A sense of satisfaction could be seen in their faces.Although we didnt get any place,to present a team is an achievement already.I am proud of you girls and boys..never once did I see any feeling of inferior in you.You all presented well, at your own pace with your very unique style.

Getting ready.......waiting for instruction to face the audience

Daughter,Ifah, the conductor of the team,giving instructions to the team.The conductor is supposed to stand on a low stool but the urusetia didnt even prepare for it.Lots of post-mortem to do guys.... Meeting another blogger,Teacher Sally,whose blog I always visit but never leave a trace...

This week Malaysians have been awaken by the long-awaited news...that is the issue of ETEMS.I heard about the decision on SINAR FM morning news on my way to school.Upon hearing the news,the respond from my big baby was " Susahlah macam ni...".

I asked him "Kenapa susah?".

He answered " Yalah..kejap BI kejap BM.Kadang-kadang ada perkataan dah belajar

dalam BI tapi Ijat tak tau dalam BM".

So I asked him which language he prefers to learn his Math and Science.He

answered,"English or dwibahasa pun bolehlah.Tapi kalau BM aje ,susahlah..kena

belajar all the terms semula".

By then I reached his school.As he was about to step out I heard him sighing.."Lu bikin gua susah aje.."

So, even a twelve -year- old boy could forsee the tentative problems they may encounter in the next couple of years .Now my kid is in standard six, by 2012 he will be in form three and that will be the year where Math and Science will be switched to BM..and what more,that year he will be taking his PMR .How is he and the other kids borned in 1997 going to cope with this situation?I am too afraid to think about that.Maybe the language of these kids will finally end up like vegetable salad, a mixture of both languages but fluent in none.

Like Dr M,I am expressing my disappointment too...

Happy Birthday Angah!

2009-07-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today, the Fourth of July, is the Independence Day for the United States of America.It is the day where the Americans declare its independency from the Kingdom of Great Britain.

Today, 4 th July is also Angah's birthday. Angah is her nickname among her siblings but her real name is Siti Amira Dayana which means "ketua yang berani" or the brave leader.And brave she is..She is the most outspoken in the family that at one time when she was six years old I had to chili her mouth for being so outspoken.Among her friends she is a chatterbox.I didnt know that until one day I went to her hostel to pick her up when she was down with fever. The friends told me the class would definitely be quiet because Dayana was not around...

Angah, a few months old, standing on her father's palm...smiling sweetly

Angah .. at three years old, smiling from ear to ear parading her new gown and new shoes on Hari Raya.
Angah now, still smiling away and always friendly to people.

Happy 15 th birthday Angah.I hope your days ahead will be filled with joy and laughter.May you be in good health and under the protection of the Almighty always.All the best in your PMR.

Sorry momy dearest couldnt make it to your school today to celebrate your birthday.Anyway,I hope you have a good time at your hostel with friends...

Congratulations boys!

2009-06-30T07:34:00.000-07:00

The tune 'I lay my love ' from my handset disturbed my afternoon nap.Still tired and dizzy from the hectic day at school, I grabbed my phone and answered the call.It was my son,Along, calling from Muar, to inform me that he was going into the finals in rugby tournament this afternoon.
What else could I say, except all the best Along and give your best shot.He and his team had been training for months,moving from the east coast to the north and now in the south for the finals.
As I ve mentioned in the previous post, the director of MARA insisted on taking up the challenge from the director of SBP to have students of both parties competing in rugby and also to prove that the MRSM boarders are not ayam daging.As for that, the students had to sacrifice their classes,study hours,pocket money(as they were given rm 42 only for two weeks) and a few other things to achieve the mission.In fact, the parents were called up by the director himself to be given further explanation on this matter.

All your hard work pays boys!Congratulations..the four teams went to the finals this afternoon were three MARA teams from north,east and south zones and Kolej Yayasan Saad.All the teams from SBP like Royal Military College and a few science and premier schools failed to enter the finals.

At 8:00 pm just now Along called me up to inform that his team secures the second place and the proud champion goes to MARA south zone.

So mission accomplished for the MARA boys including the director.Good work boys and surely all of you deserve something better than that rm 42!

For Along, have a safe journey back to your college tomorrow and mommy dearest will see you this weekend...

Get back and catch up with your studies Along.It s 142 days to your SPM!

Handbags..handbags..and more handbags.

2009-06-19T04:44:00.000-07:00

I may have a big problem here.I really,really love handbags.Bags of any kind,any shape,any colour,any material and any brand.But one soothing thing I am not a branded kind of person,if not I would say half of my salary will go to handbags.

My collection of bags...

I have handbags all over my room.I put them on the cupboard, on the dresser,at the side of my bed,on my study table..everywhere.This will make it easier for me to change my handbag every morning before leaving for work.

So, this weekend since there isnt so much things, both in my hands and on my mind(since hubby isnt coming back,angah is at her hostel,along going for rugby training in Penang,big baby is attending motivation camp,so leaving only me and Ifah at home), I gather all my handbags from every corner of my house and start to dust,wipe,polish and clean them inside out.Macam-macam lah khazanah jumpa..

I ve only a few branded ones..tapi tak de lah sampai beribu harganya...tak mampu.

I love pink handbags...look so feminine.

Just very ordinary type of bags,after all I am a very ordinary person...I don't go for any particular brands.Anything will do,as long as dah berkenan..

My collection of dinner bags...

Even straw bags get my attention...Kalau dah nama perempuan,any beautiful things will surely catch her eyes!

If I ever go shopping,my kids will be very worried if there is a handbag sale.Mommy dearest will surely stop at least for a few minutes,picking,trying and tossing the bags.Looking very bored and probably fed up,they ll just wait obediently for me to choose.Kalau I tanya cantik tak yang ni,and they will quickly say yes before I actually finish asking.

Surprisingly, those handbags will only have a few pairs of shoes to match with.One thing for sure I am not Imelda Marcos.I seldom buy shoes.If I ever bought one and it is comfortable I would use the pair for years.If not I just chuck it back in the box and it will remain there . I need a comfortable pair since the nature of my work requires me to stand at the very least 3 hours a day.Of course you can't teach while sitting down..bukan nak mengaji kitab,that what my boss would say if she ever finds any teacher sitting while teaching.

So, I dont know when I can and will stop this not so very economical habit(especially with the economic turn down).I guess at this age of mine I should stop window shopping for handbags,comparing the prices and materials.. etc..etc.Instead it is time for me to compare which supplement is the best for my body,(after all I ve had one cyst removal and I am not getting any healthier),look for calorie chart instead of a discounted price chart and start thinking of my cholesterol level instead of which handbag goes with which baju.But ..well, old habit dies hard.I will try but I am not expecting a tremendous change.Afterall, I am a woman...

Mak Ya ...in loving memory.

2009-06-16T03:15:00.000-07:00

UPDATED:
Allahyarhamah Siti Doria Sapeh bt Puteh telah selamat dikebumikan pada pukul 1:00 tghari,16 Jun 2009.Majlis pengkebumian berjalan dengan cepat,lancar dan tanpa sebarang halangan.
The crowd of mourners who came to pay their last respect was overwhelming.She must have been one amazing,wonderful and kind-hearted being throughout her life.Even her Chinese and Indian friends grieved and wiped their silent tears.
Mak Ya...you will be deeply missed by beloved family and countless friends.Our love for you will remain and the moments with you will forever be cherished and treasured.
May Allah grant you an eternal rest....

She was my closest aunt..a person (after my mom)whom I would seek for if I had any problem...a place for me to 'dump' my children whenever I had to go far,either for a pilgrimage,holidays or functions.She was the most selfless and generous person who would never turn down any of my request.If there were a person who would teach me to learn to give without expecting anything in return ,it would be her.I know sometimes I took her for granted..please forgive me Mak Ya.
If ever I craved for any dishes,she would cook for me.In fact, she was a good cook.Her Nasi Beryani was well-known in her neighbourhood that she would receive order after order especially during Chinese New Year or weddings.Not that she was business minded but she just could not turn down the request from friends and neighbours.
I could not remember how and why I got so closed to her.I guess when I was small I spent most of my time at home with her when my mom was at work,so that in a way made us closer.She would cook,wash for my family besides babysit us, the kids.I remember every night whenever we were watching TV , I would put my head on her lap and she would caress my hair.She would never complained,never grumbled.
Then we grew up,she got married.But whenever summer holidays and I was back in Malaysia,I would spend most of my time at her place.She never breathed a word of having extra mouth to feed...That was my Mak Ya.
Hers was the place where you could jump out of a band wagon and landed on it at any time of the day or night and found home-cooked food on the table.Being such a gracious and accommodating hostess to all her nieces and nephews,her house would always be the place for us to gather and meet.Whenever we entered her kitchen, there would always be something brewing on the stove.We would never get hungry!Whenever her nieces or nephews from kampung were looking for jobs, hers would be a transit place until we were able to secure one.She had the biggest and warmest heart who would offer a helping hand to anybody in distress.
I know I haven't done much for her.But I am glad at least she managed to sample a bit of luxury before she left us.

Mak Ya or her real name was Siti Doria Sapeh bt Puteh..was named by a great man,the former Menteri Besar Johor, Allahyarham Tan Sri Othman Saat.At that time my late grandfather was a good friend to him.We do not know if there is any special meaning behind the name.

Mak Ya...your name will forever be engraved in my heart and I would never ever forget what you had done to us.

Al Fatihah...for my Mak Ya, who passed away peacefully at 3:00 am this morning (16 June 2009) at the age of 58,after suffering from pancreas cancer.May she rest in peace,may her soul be placed among the good and the pious.Amin...

Memorable trails......

Oil palm story.... part 3

examexamexam

Beautiful blooms in dad's garden

SPM

11.11.11

The oil palm story (part 2)

Tipah oh Tipah...

Salam Aidil Fitri..

Simple pleasure in life..

Tipah Tertipu...

Hong Kong / China trip

The oil palm story...three years later...

Time to chill

Jalan2..makan2...santai2...

Isn't mommy always right?

This and that..

Age is catching up...

Ouch!

It's 6 minus 1

Ramadhan Kareem

*#@>*&^%????

Another birthday...

Thanks to the Armed Forces..

SUKMA XIII

Blue beret call

Selamat Hari Guru

The High and Mighty Abang Seniors..

Keretaku dicuri...

Letting go...

A quiet mid-term holiday ...

When the cat was not around....

Hari Penuh Emosi...

The last count down is over...

A very special day indeed...

Looking For The Fairy Princess

New school, new scene...

Dear Along...

Congratulations!

MJSC KK Graduation Day

Cluttering and de-cluttering

I've learned

Our last raya here

This and that

Rain...rain ..misty rain...

Congratulations!

Best of luck!

Three in one

Wrapping up

It is just another ordinary day.....

Good luck Ifah!

My Malaysia

Two Roads Diverged in a Yellow Wood

Simple Pleasures in Life

On marriage

A luncheon date with Along

PMR

Happy Birthday

Driving at two something...

SALAM AIDILFITRI

Khatam Al Quran,Malam Namat....

UPSR

On the eve of Ramadhan 1430H

At the eleventh hour.

From Kisana Beach Resort...

Justice to plants, generous to neighbours

Lu bikin gua susaaaah aje...

Happy Birthday Angah!

Congratulations boys!

Handbags..handbags..and more handbags.

Mak Ya ...in loving memory.

#@>&^%????