Lansi Auntie

Big Bash with Cato

2009-08-22T14:41:00.004+08:00

The highlight of my weekend trip last week was meeting

Cato Larsen for the 1st time. He is a popular line dance

choreographer who was in KL for a short stint invited

by Funstompers. Roll With The Wind, I Won't Cry,

Fairytale, Sealed With A Kiss, are few of the dances

shared with us. Beeda met up with me on this occasion,

and we had a wonderful time shopping too.

Charity Linedance Night 19 July 2009

2009-07-25T09:28:00.007+08:00

Line dancers from Singapore and Jb converged for
a Chairty affair organised by Jenny Lim. An awesome
night with 80 dances to dance kept our feet pretty
busy. A fun-filled party with lucky prizes ,
bingo games , heaps of food and a sharing with special
guest, the spectacular and exquisite Joyce Lim.

Raising more than 18,000 rm for Palliative JB
was the main ingredient for this successful night.

This zany gang of mine is definitely having a blast!

Sandakan Trip

2009-07-10T17:33:00.057+08:00

When Roger, my brother-in-law who resides in Sandakan invited us

for an outing to Lankayan Island, we simply could not say a "no".

We flew into Sandakan via Kota Kinabalu, while Cynthia flew in

on a direct flight from Kuala Lumpur.

The island is an hour and half boat ride from the mainland and the followings

are pictures to remember.

The chalets are clean, comfortable and with the sea almost at

your doorstep what more can we ask!

Hammock ridden.

Fook Fook the resort's resident dog.

Bronzed by the sun.

The crystal clear waters.

Diving equipment for hire.

Our catch for the day.

Enjoying ourselves on the fishing boat.

Yoga time in the middle of the ocean

Sure this is yoga?????

Sun-bathing on the sun-deck

Hung this sign on my door to indicate to the resort's staff

in case of any turtle nesting.

Very lucky to watch a turtle laying her eggs.

After 3 days at the island we are back on the mainland Sandakan to

do some tourist visit.

Had tea and cakes at the famous English tea house which is

on top of a hill overlooking Sandakan bay.

Agnes Keith's house. She is the american writer who lived here from 1930s

and 1942 , and wrote three books. The first was "Land below the Wind"DIV>

(first published 1939), a book on pre-war days. It was followed

by "Three Came Home" (1947), which focused on hardships suffered in the

Second World War, and was subsequently made into a Hollywood movie, and

the third book "White Man returns" (1951), which tells of her life in Sandakan

after war.

The Australian Memorial dedicated to some 2700 Australian prisoners

of war and others who died in the Pow camp and death marches in

North Borneo during WW2.

Crispy pata a favourite Filipina dish (used to eat this frequently

prepared by our Filipina maid when we stayed in KK)

Farewell dinner at Masarap was special with a live band entertainment.

Golden and Blissful

2009-06-29T05:13:00.003+08:00

We had the honor of being invited to Ivy's golden wedding

anniversary. A young couple in love is joy, but an aging couple in love

is bliss. When a couple has cherished their marriage for 50 years, it certainly

calls for a 50th wedding anniversary celebration. A wedding anniversary is the

celebration of love, trust, partnership, tolerance and tenacity.

Newlyweds become 'oldyweds', and 'oldyweds' are the reasons that

families work.

Upside Down!

2009-06-22T07:28:00.007+08:00

Yoga is one of the few systems of health that suggest you

regularly turn yourself upside down for extended periods of time.

The health claims are astonishing: it reverses aging, increases

blood flow to the brain, regulates pituitary and pineal glands,

relieves constipation, tranquilizes and mellows the nervous system.

Yesterday's workshop with Bronze touched on Yoga Inversions

and here am I doing the shoulder stand. Bronze offering helpful

detailed pointers on this pose.

Some other inversions with the security of my fellow yoga

mates.

Completed with a group photo.

My Computer CRASHED!!!

2009-06-01T13:08:00.002+08:00

Yes, I think this is one of my most dreaded moment.
The past week had been painfully slow, give me a
choice between the computer dead and missing out
a line dance party, I think I rather take the later!
Two senior people in the house like us, not very
computer savvy coupled with the two girls not around
is really quite frustrating. Till today we really can't
figure what happened to the computer!

Being computer-less made me realise how dependant
I am on technology and on the Internet... I missed
my incoming emails , reading blogs and websites,
and printing out my line dance step sheets.

I am glad the computer is back, but abit sad
to discover that I have lost a few files, pictures
and favourites. It's like losing a cupboard of things,
which you can't really remember all the things
that was saved....

Simply Ikebana

2009-05-18T19:27:00.009+08:00

Was invited by Serena to see the Ikebana exhibition held at Citisquare

on Saturday. Serena is a great Ikebana enthusiast, and this is

her display of her floral arrangement. I am not good at any floral

arrangements, but I certainly do admire this art.

"Ikebana is born from the encounter of nature and humans; it is the coming

together of nature and human life....a clear example of perfect harmony

between man and nature...."

Some other Ikebana arrangements by other enthusiast.

Eye Witness

2009-05-07T14:24:00.002+08:00

It is the 1st time I witness some one passing away.
Happened yesterday, while Emily and me were doing
our normal palliative visits. She is a 47 year old woman
suffering from skin cancer. She has 4 children who are
in their teens. It is Emily's fourth visit and my first.

The husband had been calling Emily to come quickly,
as the wife seemed to be unconscious. We arrived at
their home at 11.40 am. The woman did not respond
to Emily's call, her breathing seem shallow and slow.
To me she looked beautiful despite the body being ravaged
by the sickness. Suddenly, the son called out "Ibu,
ibu", I realised that this was the end. Her breathing
became shallow, she turned pale and her body was
still, peaceful and calm. Emily pulled off her
oxygen tubes and switched off the machine.

It was heartbreaking to hear the family crying out
for her, I cried softly and felt a loser as I am supposed
to be comforting them. However, I managed to gain
composure quickly and extended my condolence to the
family.

We left shortly, leaving the family to grieve and to come
to terms with their loss. Although it is tough to see
the woman dying , I got to feel the comfort of a
death that was not ugly, painful or difficult.

Later, I apologised to Emily for losing my composure,
she assured me that as long as I did not mourn or cry
louder than the bereaved family it was alright. That
statement made me laughed a little...

Home Alone for Ginger

2009-05-04T19:54:00.005+08:00

Was away in KL during the Labour Day holidays to spend

time with the girls and getting pampered in advance for

Mother's Day celebration. Had a fabulous Tenji Japanese buffet dinner

with family at Solaris Mont Kiara.

While we were away in KL Ginger is left home alone again.

She somehow has strong instincts that we were going away.

Her behaviour always change, and she will start giving us

her pitiful looks to make us change our minds.

This is one of her pitiful looks......

This is Ginger after our trip

Demonstrating that she misses us!

Laying her head on my palm. Soooooo "manja"

Fun footing for Charity

2009-04-27T14:36:00.007+08:00

Judy has done it again! This time it is in aid of the Palliative

Association and Breast Cancer support Group in JB.

Yesterday's party was just simply great with about 100

line dancers from Singapore and JB. Peter and Eelin of

Yipee was here to teach their latest choreographed

dance "Cha Cha" which is a 64 count-4 wall intermediate

level line dance. Music for this choreography is

catchy and lively.

This sweet couple displayed a heart of

gold by coming down to JB to drum up support

and raise money for a worthy cause.

Judy presenting a cheque to Emily the palliative nurse .

A group photo of line dancers and instructors. We may look tiny

in the pix but we certainly have a big heart.

"Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. You don't have to have

a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and your verb

agree to serve.... You don't have to know the second theory of thermodynamics

in physics to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by

love."

~Martin Luther King, Jr.

Good Friday

2009-04-12T11:26:00.002+08:00

I had a very meaningful Good Friday which was well spent
not because I fasted but that I was called by Emily
to do a palliative visit to a 54 year old man diagnosed
with brain tumour.

He is a Quality Control Manager working in Singapore,
a very capable person according to his proud wife
and whose only hobby was to work. He has lost control
of his limbs but not his mind, a very intellect person who
is now a bit frustrated with his condition. I admire his
profound will to fight, beat and survive the cancer odds
despite his awareness of his end-stage-life.

"Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss
is what dies inside us while we live.”

Washing of the Feet

2009-04-05T11:41:00.004+08:00

We hosted a BEC gathering at our condo's poolside last night
and being Lenten season members were asked to come forward
to re-enact the washing of the feet. I had the sweet privilege of
having my feet washed by my husband (he offered to wash )
and through this wonderful action I learnt a few things. I am no
scholar and I think Jesus way is always the best.

To me it didn't matter who washed whose feet. The actor and
the recipient (the pics below) had a meaning.

1) Willingness to serve.
2) Obligation to serve and love the whole whether it's a leper,
poor, rich, enemy, animals, the planet etc.
3) Humility(letting go our ego eg. which I find sometimes
the hardest!)

Say, how about my pedicure and a reflexology!

For a good cause

2009-03-28T10:03:00.006+08:00

I spent the whole of yesterday at City Square doing my bit at
the Palliative booth. Together with Emily and other volunteers
we are here to distribute pamphlets to the general public to create an
awareness of Hospice and Palliative Care in Johor Bahru. I noticed
that the young people are more generous and responsive to this
good cause.

Me, Foo, a volunteer(didn't get her name) and Emily.

A snap with Emily my palliative nurse.

We had 20 girls from Convent to help us out distribute our pamphlets.

These sweet young things are great, as they managed to rope in some

cash donations. Guess people are more responsive to them than aunties

like me!

Wisdom comes with Age

2009-03-19T06:18:00.003+08:00

The older I get, the less age seem to matter.. I have
always believed it is just a state of the mind and and as each
birthday approaches believe that I am too young to be
this old! It is a splendid time to celebrate and focus on
my birth, with family and wonderful friends I have
known over the years. It's my birthday today , I am
55 and proud of it.

My husband's birthday is one day after mine, and
we are going down to KL to celebrate with the girls.

Birthday celebration with Jubilants

2009-03-15T20:59:00.009+08:00

Jubilants are here having a fun time fooling around

JUBILANTS:" She is the one who needs a stretcher..her two knees are in
bandages!!"
LEE HONG : " Two knees, but still can dance"

ME: " Ok la beauties.....which one of you is the fairest of them all?"

WONG: "I am still cute"

JUDY AND GEK HONG: "I think one piece of cake is not enough"

FLORENCE: "Coffee or tea"

EVELYN: "Alamak, seven dances in a row abit

too much for me"

CINDY: " For me, kachang only"

POH CHOO: "Is my giraffe neck showing?"

SERENA: " My bowl is empty, going for some more dessert".

ME: "Ok la one candle will do"

I had a great time today, thanks to all my fellow jubilants...

From left to right: Florence, Serena, Lee Hong, Judy, Gek Hong,

Evelyn, Poh Choo, Wong, Molly, Cindy and Ivy.

International Womens' Day

2009-03-08T22:07:00.012+08:00

I am here joining my friends to mark International Women's Day

at Grand Paragon, Johore Baru. The highlight of the Buffet high tea

is line dancing at the end of the party. These are the ladies who

refuse to go home, and wasted no time to start their dance.

One...two....three......

At the end , some of us had to kick-off our high-heels.

These high heels are not made for dancing......Oouch!

Notice the background....everyone has gone home except us. A day to

celebrate YOU.

Friend, Teacher and Mentor

2009-03-06T11:32:00.003+08:00

Celebrating Lucy's birthday at a Japanese restaurant. Lucy is a very special

friend, our friendship has a special bonding, a bond of understanding,

honesty and acceptance. Although we know each other for slightly

more than a year only, I feel that we have known each other a

lifetime. She is woman of enormous strength and has inspired me

immensely.

“Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them, but you know

they are always there”

You ain't heavy cos you're my sister!

2009-03-04T13:47:00.003+08:00

Friendship certainly takes us to alot of places!

Partner Yoga Workshop

2009-03-01T22:35:00.007+08:00

Today Bronze and his Korean friend, another yoga instructress

has teamed up to organise a Partner Yoga Workshop

at Yoga Essence. I found the series of partner poses not only

fun but effective in stretching my legs and my abs.

It allows us to explore into boundaries unexplored,

and the counterbalancing poses was just simply

remarkable. Yoga has proven that you can easily raise

your partner even if they are heavier.

My First Palliative visit

2009-02-27T16:31:00.004+08:00

Today was especially exciting for me as this is

my first palliative home care visit with Emily

(palliative nurse). The patient is a 70 year old

woman who has been diagnosed with cervical

cancer. The tumour according to record has

metastasized and she is residing at home. She told

me that she has three sons and one daughter.

This patient appears to be cheerful and in good

spirits. She tells me that she is not in any kind of pain.

Upon examining her, Emily and me realised a

strong stench coming from area where she has

drainage tubes. Emily decided to give the patient

some fresh dressings....Oops I am not trained in

this area but I can help out in sorting out her

swabs and gauze.

Emily is seen here teaching the patients daughter how to do a
dressing.

" Thou shalt treat thy patient as thou wouldst thyself be treated.”

In Search of Ancestral Roots

2009-02-27T16:27:00.027+08:00

While holidaying in Hainan my husband had little intention to look
for his ancestral home. His late father hardly spoke about his family
back in China, and my husband's only clue about his past was his
village name called Lok way and of course his father's name.
My guide insisted that he could help us find his ancestral home
through the help of his own father who works for the Government.
While researching at the Library he found that the name of
this village had changed to Zhong Hai.
It was not an easy task as we don't even have the
grandfather's name. Despite the odds we decided to try
look for the village on the last day of our trip.

My guide Siew Wang enquiring this small town folks for direction to the
village .

Looks like we have a lead at this village shack.

The road ahead lead us to a stop and a kind lady says she

knows the Goh family. She comes into our car to point out

the farm house

It a small enclosure consisting of sheds doing some farm work.

A Goh family who happens to be cousins of my husband! Notice the parabolic

dish....not bad. The handsome guy on the right took my husband by

motorbike to the ancestral house which is further in only access by foot.

I am offered a seat, their most comfortable chair under a

blue fan while my husband gone a-searching . They don't seem so

primitive after all, with a TV, VCD player and a hi-fi system.

A firewood stove. I received a call from my husband saying he has

found the ancestral home and the relatives are asking me to go

meet them. Well, the only way was by foot and the pics shows

what I saw as I make my way through the narrow pathway.

I freak out when I saw this water buffalo , I quickly sms my children back

in Malaysia in case I get gored or lost in this remote village. The young

man was sent to collect me and my guide on his motor-bike. Can't believe

I rode a 3-passenger ride , but with the scorching sun this ride was a saviour!

Pay your respect to ancestors first...... the elders insisted.

The house where my father-in-law lived.

The elders of the Goh clan, the one on the right has a strong resemblance

of my late father-in-law.

My husband completing the bloodline that was lost. The house is abuzz

with relatives and it was quite emotional for my husband. Quite

daunting I must say, most memorable and fulfilling .

A mission accomplished!

"Like branches on a tree, our lives may grow in different directions yet our roots

remain as one." - Author Unknown

Hainan Holiday

2009-02-26T06:11:00.028+08:00

Was holidaying in Hainan Island from 19-25 Feb. I don't rave

about going China mainly because of their spitting and toilet

issues but this trip was slightly better than my former trips.

An amazing beautiful island worth a visit, as it has abundant

islets, seafood, well preserved tropical rain forest and activities

which was abit too tiring for two seniors like us.

The skyline of Haikou city.

Steamboat served in two flavours. The one on the right side is

HOT!

A pumpkin dessert .....so yummy.....

A sand islet between the sea and the river mouth.

The Bo ao Forum for Aisia International Convention Center.

A wonderful way to snooze under these shady coconut trees.

A mountain goat doing monkey tricks on monkey island!

Oysters my favourite seafood.

Strange Deity ....a tortoise with a dragon head

Roots centuries old.

Not a caveman .....he is a rootman! Remarkable old roots enough to

make a home.

A suspended bridge in a tropical forest.

Ethnic handicrafts done by the Mao and Li aborigines.

Cool Gadget

2009-02-17T18:24:00.001+08:00

Do you need this for your washroom?

Thought of the day

2009-02-15T12:05:00.001+08:00

Valentine's Day gift?

2009-02-14T11:33:00.002+08:00

A chocolate heart for Valentine's? Ugh! Believe me this is one of
the most creative valentine's gift if you want to get dumped!

Talk on Cancer

2009-02-05T15:00:00.002+08:00

Emily the palliative nurse, who was visiting my late
mum-in law has recruited me as a volunteer and today
she has invited me to go to Mawar to listen to some
talk given by oncologists on different types of cancer.

I was late by an hour, and when I walked into a
packed room of mostly ladies and teen aged school
children I realised that the talk is conducted in Bahasa.
definitely not strong in that area...
I found my way to where Emily was seated,( with
other palliative volunteers). The talks were interesting
but nothing new to me as I basically know most of the
cancers through reading. What strikes me most was
when one of the doctors showed a live coverage of
an operation done on one of his patient suffering from
ovarian cancer. The tumour weighed 15 kilos and
the sight was enough to make anyone puke! My
instincts tells me that whoever she was, she must be
suffering advance stage of cancer.

The reasons for these talks is to emphasise on
early screening and to bring an awareness of
how some of these cancers can be prevented.
The good news is more people are surviving
cancer and the bad news is more people are
suffering from it.

Tan family re-union 2009

2009-02-03T06:26:00.012+08:00

The Tan family re-union is especially eventful as it

is the only time I get to see all my siblings , nephews,

and nieces. Every year my eldest brother Francis will

make the arrangements for a big "makan"and this

year our luncheon was hosted in the Chinese restaurant

at Subang Golf Club.

My nephew Eugene played host for the dinner at

Mandi Mandi situated in Ampang, a captivating

restaurant with semi-outdoor lounge with surroundings

of a jungle forest. The ambiance was amazing as the

walkway to this restaurant is lighted with tea-candles

and decorated with an exotic effect. The dinner served

is a fusion of Malay and Thai delicacies.

The stairways are meant for hyperactive legged people!

The bunch of foodaholics! Skinny diets after this.

Holiday indulgence

2009-01-27T20:27:00.007+08:00

I baked Moussaka for lunch today. The children loves this traditional

Greek dish although they don't have any Greek blood or influence in them.

From the looks they definitely enjoyed this dish thoroughly even though

my husband does not share the same opinion, as he is not a fan of anything

cheesy.... "Too bad " Cheryl said happily

Chinese New Year 2009

2009-01-26T22:04:00.006+08:00

Yup, the girls are back in JB. Laptops lying around

the house after all my effort to de-clutter the house.

The Lunar holidays was just simply spent on eating

and sleeping. Caught in action snoozing...Ginger and

Cyn on New Year's eve.

This tray of desserts were delicious! ...and definitely sinful!

A lion dance performance in Church this morning. Parishioners were

given 2 oranges and an angpao each.

Jubilant's New Year Party 2009

2009-01-04T21:01:00.012+08:00

We the Jubilants hosted a New Year Jam this afternoon at Pondorosa

Golf and Country Club. A time for dancing and accompanied by

good food.

Lee Too our DJ...."now where did that music go?"

Florence and her bag of tricks!.....

" We are No. 1" Evelyn seems to say.

Gluttony at work.......

Emilyn and friends

Lily Teoh is all smiles...."very tasty!"

Ladies you sure you know the dance?....facing twelve o'clock or nine o'clock

or six o'clock?????????

Beauty Pageants ???? Nah...

My fellow jubilants from top Ivy, Molly, Poh Choo, Lee, Evelyn,

Serena, Wong, Emilyn, Lee Too, Florence , Cindy and Joy.

A blast for the New Year!

2009-01-02T19:01:00.007+08:00

Had a quiet new year's eve dinner with hubby,
at Gianni's my fav restaurant. Not bad to kick off
the new year, as our dinner was paid by a friend
who insisted to pay for the bill. Maybe that's one
of the good things that happen to people who are
retired....haha. We had a nice surprise too as we
met a Dutch couple sitting next to us who treated us
for our second drink, wine for me and beer for hubby.

Ben and Enya Jansen who hails from the Netherlands!

Amazing how fast we make new friends. We learnt that Ben

is a recycling industry consultant and will be staying in JB

for awhile.

Funny New Year wishes

2008-12-31T17:31:00.003+08:00

May your hair, your teeth, your face-lift, your abs and your stocks not
fall; and may your blood pressure, your triglycerides, your cholesterol,
your white blood count and your mortgage interest not rise.

May you get a clean bill of health from your dentist, your cardiologist,
your gastro-enterologist, your urologist, your proctologist, your
podiatrist, your psychiatrist and your plumber.

May what you see in the mirror delight you, and what
others see in you delight them.

May someone love you enough to forgive your faults, be blind
to your blemishes, and tell the world about your virtues.

May New Year's Eve find you seated around the table,
together with your beloved family and cherished friends.

May you find the food better, the environment quieter,
the cost much cheaper, and the pleasure much more
fulfilling than anything else you might ordinarily do that night.

May the telemarketers wait to make their sales calls until
you finish dinner, may the commercials on TV not be louder
than the program you have been watching, and may your check
book and your budget balance - and include generous amounts
for charity.

May you remember to say "I love you" at least once a day
to your spouse, your child, your parent, your siblings;
but not to your secretary, your nurse, your masseuse,
your hairdresser or your tennis instructor.

(Ha...ha can't help but post this funny wishes sent to me
few hours ago.) Happy New Year 2009!

A different Christmas

2008-12-27T22:07:00.004+08:00

A quiet Christmas with my in-laws just four days after my mother-in

law's funeral. May be quiet but meaningful, the sombre feelings were

suddenly forgotten with some good food and cheer. This Christmas

made me think about those living with cancer and those who have

suffered a major loss because of this dreadful illness.

In memory of my mother-in-law

2008-12-23T01:06:00.002+08:00

God looked around his garden and found an empty place

He then looked down upon his earth and saw your loving face

He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest.

His garden must be beautiful, he always takes the best.

He knew that you were suffering, he knew you were in pain.

And knew that you would never get well on earth again.

He saw your path was difficult, he closed your tired eyes.

He whispered to you "Peace be Thine" and gave you wings to fly.

When we saw you sleeping so calm and free of pain.

We would not wish you back to earth to suffer once again.

You've left us previous memories, your love will be our guide.

You live on through your children, you're always by our side.

It broke our hearts to lose you, but you did not go alone.

For part of us went with you on the day God called you home

In Hospital

2008-12-12T17:05:00.001+08:00

Today marks the 17th day in hospital for my mother-inlaw who
is suffering from end stage gall bladder cancer.She lies in bed
heavily sedated with morphine due to pain . Illness and pain
brings us to our knees in prayer.This episode makes us realise
how precious life is.

I am busy helping out with the rest of the family to
look after her at Johore Specialist Centre. I admire her
strength as she goes through peaks and valleys of her
treatment. As a family, we take steps to make her as
comfortable and painless as possible. Behind all sickness
is finally the sovereign hand of God.

Malaysian atmosphere in Singapore

2008-11-26T13:46:00.007+08:00

Was in Singapore yesterday, and had tea tarik at the Tanjung

Pagar railway station. This is actually my first visit inside

the station although I have passed this heritage building several

times before....

I certainly feel very at home here.

These murals are beautiful!

Hmmm....the sign says Sufian Enterprise but whats the Buddhist

alter doing there?????

Perfect ride for two!

All I want for Christmas is.............

2008-11-22T10:20:00.005+08:00

Ginger has been in a festive mood since I put up the Christmas

tree, she is seen here looking at the baubles and decorations. Her

sleeping area is now temporarily shifted. No presents yet!

"Christmas is not about opening presents, it about opening

your hearts"

Happy Birthday Karen!

2008-11-21T17:02:00.006+08:00

Its Karen's birthday tomorrow! Nan and me

has mischievously asked her out for lunch....and

she got the hint I guess...we had a free buffet lunch

at Grand Paragon, the latest newly opened hotel

in JB

Smiling for toothpaste advertisement?

Turkey with Cranberries...my favourite Christmas dish.

We were lucky to get this, early for Christmas though, as the proprietors

of the hotel were having some food-tasting.

"Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that the people

who have the most, live the longest"

From Korea with Love

2008-11-16T10:35:00.006+08:00

Received an email from Cheryl with some pictures

of herself in Korea. She is away working in Seoul and

from her pictures it looks pretty cold. The last time

we went to Korea for a family vacation was when she

was eight.

Yogic snail

2008-11-13T14:28:00.004+08:00

This snail doing the split?

"You can do anything you set your mind to when you

have vision, determination and endless supply of

expendable labour"

Hometown Trip

2008-11-12T06:12:00.008+08:00

Made a trip back to Sitiawan recently to observe All Souls day
which falls on November 2nd. We are late for this annual
visit at my parent's and one of my older brother's grave which
is on the way to Lumut. We brought flowers, sprinkled holy water,
burned candles and said prayers to commemorate and respect
the faithful departed.

Here is Cyn saying Hi! to grandpa and grandma. Managed to
squeeze time to have a look at my apartment at Lumut Valley Condo
and a quick walk around Lumut town.

An aerial view of the Malaysian Naval Base and Lumut town as seen

from the apartment.

Gosh...this sleepy town has certainly transformed.

Yoga for cats

2008-11-04T10:50:00.007+08:00

I had to miss my yoga this morning, so I thought maybe

it would be a good idea to do at home. The minute I roll

my mat on the floor my two queens are ready to do their

stuff.....

The Gingerasana pose......

The Miawasana......

Final pose , relaxing and craving for attention from the man of the house.

"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened"

Yoga workshop with Bronze

2008-10-30T08:46:00.006+08:00

I recently attended a yoga workshop organised by Yoga Essence
with Bronze. Found it very rewarding as he shared many guidelines
as how to stay safe on the mat . Before you embark on this journey,
you learn that it is not about achievement , it is more about the
mind and body relationship and awareness through yogic practices.
Finer details like alignment of the poses were discussed, and students
were allowed time to ask questions about why it is painful to do
certain poses.

I think this asana.....in Sanskrit is Virabhadrasana 1.....HmmmErrh...could be
wrong! Hehe......anyway have to check with Bronze...

....Ohhhhhhh...........I can't hold any longer........

....Fun time........

A picture of contentment and peace... we went home happy, it was
sweet and sweaty. Hoping for more workshop to come.

Food ....Glorious Food

2008-10-28T11:00:00.022+08:00

Was away in KL for the Deepavali holidays. Had a great time dining out

with Cheryl , Cynthia and Dad. A taste of Austrian at Klimt's....

Beef goulash

...Schnitzel.....

...seafood paella.....

...this is the best apple strudel I have had...the thin crispy skin makes

it special.

The second dine-out at Le Meridian buffet dinner... the dessert

was superlicious....errh....the pistachio creme brulee was finishing too

fast.....

...the fountain of youth....chocolate.....

...food...more food....

Teppanyaki anyone?...Nah I prefer sashimi....

Personalised ice-cream..... This sumptuous meal made me put on about

1kg. Two nights in a row eating out was just simply great....can't

be doing this everyday!

Passing of a fellow jubilant

2008-10-22T15:29:00.003+08:00

Susie will always be remembered as a lady who had a passion

to dance. She was just simply happy whenever she did line dancing

her son says. "Madu dan Racun" and "Hustle Bustle" are her

favourites.

The Susie I knew was a great wife and mother,

who adored her 4 sons tremendously and takes pride of them.

She was a quiet, humble and down to earth lady who had no

bad word for anyone. She has fought valiantly and bravely,

until sickness had taken a toil on her health. Her spirits

will live in us forever.

This is the last snap taken of her with fellow jubilants in 2007.

Sad News....and Good News

2008-10-17T12:40:00.002+08:00

On 14th October morning, I received a phone call from my
sis-in law that my mother-in law has been diagnosed
with advanced cancer of the gall bladder. This is just
one day before my husband's appointment with his
oncologist for his routine checkup. Of course,
this is devastating for all of us. Because of the bad
timing the family thought it would be insensitive to relate
this to my husband and gave me the duty to telling
him this sad news in good time.

I told him immediately as I knew my husband is
strong and accepting. He was calmer than I had expected.

I accompanied him the next morning for his medical
appointment at the National Cancer Centre in Singapore.
The wait was not long, but nervy. The doctor cautioned
him as his appointment which was overdue(he missed his
appointment in February) and told him his condition is clear.
We were so relief ...the minute we walked out he said "Let's go
for Bak-kut teh!"

Hello Botox Goodbye Acting

2008-10-11T11:44:00.004+08:00

Was reading my newspaper this morning and came

across this report about Courteney Cox revealing that

she has used Botox. She says that she hated the

muscle-paralysing effects of botox as she has lost her

ability to make facial expression which has hampered

her acting skills...so not necessarily good for everyone.

...And clearly side-effects do occur! However, I admire

her honesty.

Are you nuts?

2008-10-08T08:12:00.003+08:00

No I am not! On my recent trip to KK I was recommended by

Beeda to use soap nuts as a greener way to do my laundry.

She learnt from her yoga guru that soap nuts which comes from

India , an alternative to laundry washing.

I have done some serious reading about this wonderful berry

and decided to give it a try. These berries contains saponin which

is a natural detergent. The shells are the one needed and the

nuts are discarded. I will place this shells in an sock and rubber band

it securely. Throw this into my washing machine with my clothes

and the rest is done. I notice that my clothes are clean , fresh

and so soft. It is 100 per cent natural, chemical free and

environmental friendly. Studies show that saponin inhibits

tumour cell growth.

For those who are ever worried about chemical detergent affecting

environment, but never found the alternatives satisfactory this

is the answer.

With age comes wisdom

2008-10-06T06:03:00.004+08:00

Today is a special day, it's Cheryl birthday!

We pre celebrated her birthday over the Raya

hols when she was back in JB.

A family picture taken after a yummy Japanese dinner at AjeSai.

Seems like just yesterday she was born, this bouncy 7lb 6oz

baby is now an all grown-up adult. How time flies....

Wishing you Happy Birthday !

Raya Hols

2008-10-04T17:49:00.010+08:00

The children are back for the Raya hols and it is just simply great
to have more noise in the house and also the best time for me
to exercise some of my culinary skills

Honey mustard ribs........

Salad with balsamic sauce.....

Salmon with sliced lemon....

And of course "torture time" for....

gingerrrrrrr

....................and miawwwwwww.........oh dear!

Safe at last in the arms of Dadddddyyyyyy.......at last

What better way to celebrate this festive holidays.

Pink for courage, hope and cure

2008-10-01T23:03:00.005+08:00

Today marks the beginning of October, Breast Cancer

Awareness month. As I look into different website I

picked a few interesting items bearing the pink ribbon.

It is great to raise awareness and raise funds but do all

these things really tell us about breast cancer?

Hot Saturday

2008-09-28T11:09:00.010+08:00

Was with Nan yesterday to deliver some travel documents in Taman

Perling and to escape the sweltering heat we decided to go to Johor

Baru latest newly opened Sutera Mall in Taman Sutera Utama.

Dunno, why Nan chose to go to this cafe which turn out to be

a big disappointment, and the green tea was the greenest tea

I ever had....hmmm...sure it's not just colouring??

An unusual hairdressing salon

A blogger's corner

Nan said this reminded her of Platinum Mall in Bangkok...

Decided to "cool down" with a herbal jelly at this herbal outlet

Had to rush back to my restaurant for some catering business. This

is where Nan parked her car. She is always breaking all the rules.

Nan's belated birthday dinner

2008-09-25T22:44:00.006+08:00

Nancy and me are big fans of Gianni's Trattoria

which is a small, appealing and casual restaurant

down the road where I live. Nan (fave name) was

away during her birthday which falls on 10 september.

She wanted to give Karen and me a belated birthday

treat, and knowing her well I knew this will be her

pick. It was quite packed when we arrived there,

but there was an empty table for 4 which fits our

plan.

I am trying to be on a satvic diet, but this is one night

I need to let go....

Liguinie with clams....

Was abit disappointed with tonight's meal, as it tasted

a bit salty and so was Karen's. Maybe the clams were the

culprit. We left with a small complaint, did not want to

make a hue and a cry cos most of the time they do

serve very good meals and their service is impeccable.

"Happy Birthday Nan!"

Here Touts, There Touts, Everywhere Touts

2008-09-23T16:11:00.005+08:00

Had a frantic call from Cheryl, saying that she could

not buy her bus ticket for her return trip during the

Raya period. Realising her predicament, I offered

to go Larkin Bus Terminal to do the needful.

Having worked for Malaysian airlines for 30years,

I certainly have no idea how to purchase a bus ticket.

This is my first experience, and thinking that

it should be an easy task I went ......

When I arrived there, I was confronted by at least

4 shabbily dressed touts trying to convince me

that Raya tickets are all sold out. They were

like forming a barricade around me and following

me from counter to counter. Each of them

tried to advise me to follow them

to ensure getting a ticket. Called Cheryl

whose line was like impossible to connect.

Then, I realised I had a good friend who works

for a bus company. He advised me to buy

my tickets from Causeway Link Express.

I made my way to the counter with

no casualties, as I felt that these rude touts

somehow knew that I had no idea as how

buy this ticket...Phew what an achievement!

It was certainly a good experience, not for the faint hearted though!
Do it again? Yeah, why not this time I bring a parang!

Jubilation 2008 closing

2008-09-21T22:00:00.007+08:00

Today's programme was workshop with Jo and John Kinser

and Scott Blevins. Two new dances and Latin technique with

Vincent and Felicia. After that , a donation to the Sichuan

earthquake victims through a Sin Chew representative.

Scott chilling out with Francis the guy behind the sound machine

for the 2 days.

Time for goodbyes , participants came as far as China, Taiwan and Australia.

Singaporeans and Malaysians from Penang, Pahang, KL, Sarawak

Sabah form the major of the participants.

ZZZZZZZzzzzzzzz................I am so tired. Good night!

1st Day Jubilation 2008

2008-09-21T07:25:00.017+08:00

Started at 10.30 am....

Registration, getting badges and stepsheets.

Watch me dance or watch my bums!

A pic with Jo and John Kinser.

Relaxing or make-up time?

Yeah this is more like it, Jubilants taking a rest in our room tea break time

Glamourous pose .

Hey, sorry this cowboy is OURS.... who else but our highlight of the day

...the star all the way from USA...Scot Blevins

Our 8th anniversay cake with the other stars.

Cowboy girls....

....... and funky ladies.

Last night we burnt the floor at Austin Hills, I arrived home sweaty,

with very sore feet but most of all I had fun and a wonderful experience

with the stars . Got to run....today is the last day.

Yoga for Peace

2008-09-19T08:23:00.006+08:00

Today and tomorrow, people from around the world

will join together to create peace in the world

performing 108 sun salutation in unison. Wow,

sorry am busy with my Jubilation, however my

heart is out there too.

The idea behind this event is simple and clear,

Peace begins within and its goal is to unite yoga

community to create this peace to the world.

A new cam on the block

2008-09-19T08:23:00.005+08:00

My husband and me has been debating as to who

should have the digi camera over this weekend. My

Jubilation affair happens to coincide with his

golfing trip to China and of course I am not letting

him have my camera! Why don't he use this manual

camera?

Cheryl happened to be back en route to Singapore

on a biz trip and with two old folks at home in a

situation, she saw a need to buy one for her dad.

So before I left her at the JB-S'pore taxi stand

on Tuesday, we went camera hunting. Here is

the surprise!

I had the privilege of presenting it to my hubby

on that night after my line dancing class. ....

And the gleam on his face , smiling from cheek

to cheek....is the happiest dad for the day. Of course

he was most touched because of the thought.

Next morning, he sms his golfing kakis to don't

bother bringing a camera( had been asking around

earlier) . He spent 3 good hours reading the manual

and told me "Now, you don't get to borrow mine".

Getting ready for Jubilation 2008

2008-09-13T08:51:00.006+08:00

This time next week will be a busy time for me and my

fellow jubilant friends under leadership of Judy Teh

our chairperson hosting our biggest event . It will be

a fun filled affair with international choreographers Scott

Blevins from USA and Jo and John Kinser from UK. I

have seen Jo and John Kinser last year in Penang together

with Beeda.

All this could not have been possible without the good work of

Judy Teh an amazing lady who is so passionate about line dancing

and raising funds for charity.

Kota Kinabalu Trip

2008-09-04T06:49:00.012+08:00

Dazzling line dance party at Port View with Rosie

Having a foot massage by blind masseurs at Gaya street.

My friend Stanislous selling his kadazan crafts and souvenirs

Sorry this Tarzan is taken!

A shot of mystic Mount Kinabalu taken from hotel balcony at 6am.

This jaundice-looking shot(flash not on!) taken with Beeda, Michelle and Victor(Beeda'

children) and Rosie.

Chua is included in this pic as she just returned from holiday.

I certainly had a wonderful and enjoyable trip. One of my

most fulfilling and rewarding trip...

good tips about yogic cleansing, eating "prana food",
keeping wrinkles at bay, shared by these amazing women.

" Friends Forever"

I'm so excited

2008-08-30T02:20:00.005+08:00

Its about 2 am in the morning, its too early to wake up for

our flight but guess I am too excited to go to KK for a 4-day

getaway holiday . Will be meeting up with old friends,

good friends I have known for 20 over years. Used to live

in Sabah and my two girls were born there. We stayed there

for 15 good years as KK is a really a good place to raise

kids and a place of sunshine and fun.

I am going there with 12 men golfers including my good husband

and I am the only privileged wife to tag along as this is one

place I made sure I am going....hehe.

Oh yes, before I leave have to make sure that Ginger and

Miaw has enough chow and water!

Molek Pines Apartment

2008-08-29T11:39:00.010+08:00

This the master bedroom facing the indoor garden as our apartment

is on the ground floor.

The attached bathroom in the master bedroom.

And this beautiful garden designed by my husband. Cool

isn't it. This is the favourite part of the apartment, as we can

spend hours here just relaxing and enjoying the fresh breeze

blowing through.

The swimming pool area has a barbecue pit for some great

party.

Our apartment is out for rent and at the moment it is still

vacant .

Weekend with Cyn

2008-08-23T15:18:00.010+08:00

" Mummy is this my bra?"

While walking towards Kerala Restaurant we spotted this blue sexy

buggy . Irresistible!

This is Nancy's lunch, nasi beryiani, with veggies and fish cutlet.

Cyn and mine with plain rice, fish and cutlet. Finger licking!!

Ruining Ginger's sleep.

NPC counselor

2008-08-23T11:21:00.004+08:00

I call my husband a NPC counselor. NPC stand for nasopharyngeal

cancer or in layman terms nose cancer. The reason is, these days

we seem to be having friends calling upon us to advise or shed some

light to their relatives or friends suffering from the same sickness.

My husband was diagnosed with nose cancer in

July 2004 and is now on remission.

Cancer is scary, sad and can be very consuming to the victim

and the relatives. It is devastating to receive such news but

it's still a life, and worth living. Having had a stressful job

made him actually start" living" after he was diagnosed, so cancer

is not a death sentence. This episode has many lessons,

it can be humbling, taught us acceptance and compassion,

inspired us spiritually, made us closer as a family and most of

all to live for this moment.

I admire my husband to have survived the ups and down

of the cancer treatment he had to undertake. He says "well if you really

have to suffer do it bravely and proudly, not miserably".

Easier said than done!

Guess what's for dinner?

2008-08-19T16:57:00.005+08:00

This is my first try at making sushi, a recipe that was given to me by

a Japanese friend ages ago. Looks good isn't it and not bad for a beginner

like me.

It is easy to prepare and healthy to eat. The rolling of the sushi

needs abit of practice. Can be prepared early and does not make

the kitchen dirty. My husband says it taste good except that the

rice is lacking vinegar. So "gochisosama"

Yoga with Bronze

2008-08-19T11:44:00.005+08:00

This morning Yin Yoga with Bronze(in white T) was great. His explanation

on how to work on our lazy muscles was certainly beneficial. He is

our favourite yoga instructor and mentor. His pretzel poses are

no match for any of us, but with his patience and abundant knowledge

we certainly will get somewhere.

I am taking this pic to show his youthful appearance which he

claims is due to long practice of yoga. We are all ready to

jump into that bandwagon too, so we shall see 5-10 years

from now, hopefully we still look the same. Yoga rules!

Retirement

2008-08-11T13:20:00.006+08:00

I have retired for two years now and must admit

it has been good. I am 54 and I realised that every age

has its gift and limitations.

Whenever I tell people that I have retired they
either look surprised or concerned or they think I have
become a tai tai or they think I am boring now. Look
I have retired from work not life ok...I have some people
who sneers at retirement . I can remember a relative
even quoting Mr Lee Kuan Yew's remark that when you
retire you literally die. Wow...that means there will
will be plenty of dead people walking. Its like a death
sentence for housewives too!

My sis-in-law who retired at 45 has this to say,
"long time ago I worked for the money, now money
works for me".

As for me, I am having fun , maybe not so much funds but
but it has been great, if you have less spend less. I have more time
to enjoy my reading, watching my fave Oprah show, doing more
line dancing , spending more time at gym accomplishing my
yoga poses , fulfilling more of my spiritual obligations ( doesn't
necessarily mean trying to secure a place in heaven) and playing
surrogate to my 2 cats. Most of all, more time for family, I
may not be near my children but I am always here for them
anytime they need me.

080808

2008-08-09T08:23:00.003+08:00

A toast to China for hosting this great event. Last night was
magnificent and amazing! It is the greatest Olympics opening
I have ever seen. A proud moment for China and being
Chinese I personally do share this pride even though I
am Malaysian. This is a vegetable juice containing kailan, celery and cucumbers. Thought

what a wonderful drink it is to relax and watch the Olympics but sad

to say my husband says it taste "yucks". Hello, this drink is all goodness,

full of oxidant, enzymes and anti-cancerous! I drained it down doesn't taste

that bad actually and goes very well with the above pic, the eco green.

Starting the Day

2008-08-06T08:02:00.004+08:00

This is what its like when you have pets around the house.

Miaw here playing "plain dead"

Ginger wants to blog too

Jiafong

2008-08-05T07:52:00.004+08:00

Jiafong has finally opened its doors for
business two days ago. Business is quite
encouraging as Ah yuen was not able
to cope with the orders on Sunday (soft opening).

The name Jiafong according to my husband's
translation means "full house". That will be good
if the restaurant keeps up with its name.

Stop counting years instead your blessings

2008-07-28T16:53:00.008+08:00

My husband and I went down to KL last friday
to spend the weekend with the girls and also
to pre celebrate Cyn's birthday which falls on
29 july. Enjoyed some good german food at Euro Deli
which tasted so yummyyyyy......

going ...going ..

???????

This Birthday girl is twenty-five.
Seems like yesterday she was born
Kicking and screaming "I want to be born!"

One candle for so many years?

Happy Birthday! Lots of Muaks....

City of millionaires

2008-07-11T13:49:00.007+08:00

Was in Jakarta for a 4-day trip with
Cheryl who was there for business, and
since I have not been there, she was
willing to bring me along. With an almost
all expenses paid trip it was difficult
to say no!

I love the feeling of being
a millionaire with all the Indonesian
rupiah and spending my entire trip visiting
shopping malls only.

Was at this latest first class shopping mall
Pacific Place where shoppers are all dressed
in designer bags and clothes unlike me wearing
a "I love yoga" tee and jeans. The LV shop
is the only shop here I fear to tread, unless
I want to burn my bank. Went to explore other
malls like Senayan City and Senayan Plaza which
was quite near our hotel.

Food here is very cosmopolitan, but the local
food most funny is the "Sup Buntut" which
I did not try. Made full attempt to
taste the ever famous J. Co doughnuts, and
Spaggedies fully recommended by Mr. Minh
which I thought was excellent.

Bought a few souvenirs and batik products from
the bazaar-like mall which was quite a frightening
experience.Tanah Abang is full of buyers and
sellers,(comparable to market/pasar) which was
quite dodgy and the men looking like
terrorist or suicide bombers to me.

On the final day of our trip, Cheryl and I managed
to squeeze some time buying local beauty products
enough to open a spa or beauty shop. Flew back to JB
on Airasia with no hiccoughs and shame on MAS which
Cheryl took, as her flight was delayed.

The two ibu(s) in front of Senayan City.

Mega Sale

2008-07-06T10:33:00.006+08:00

The much awaited Sale is here again. Whether it
is the Great Singapore Sale or the Malaysian Mega
Sale most husbands or boyfriends, like my husband
are not too happy about it. He says women always
fall prey to this event, where they have this idea
of spending less to look fab and enjoy more.

Well, this is one of the reasons I do not
let him tag along when I go shopping. I normally
go shopping with my two girls or with my
good friend Nancy who is a shopping freak.
I know he will just end up sulking, folding
his arms waiting for me in any chair he can
find in the mall which is a common sight. Believe
me it can be quite pathetic see the male
gender young or old waiting for wives, girlfriends
to finish their shopping, they certainly look
like waiting outside the clinic or labour room.
So, my advice is don't bring husband or boyfriends
along when you go for your shopping.

For the men, this joke I read somewhere
and would like to share, may be a good
measure to encourage some frugal spending.

A man approached a very beautiful woman in a
large mall and said, "You know, I've lost my wife
somewhere, can you talk to me for a few minutes."
"Why?" she asks. "Because every time I talk to
a beautiful woman my wife suddenly appear out
of nowhere and I'm tired looking for her."

Botox anyone?

2008-07-04T13:00:00.002+08:00

When I think of botox, I have the tendency to
think that it is related to beauty ..a woman's thing
..a remedy for those crow's feet and wrinkles
collected as we age. Many woman would simply die
to get this treatment done. "Don't worry kids,
Mum's not getting it!"

As I was watching my Astro's collection of recorded
shows of Oprah I came across one episode where
Dr. Oz was talking about Botox. I discovered that this
treatment can also be used for many other ailments. Because
of its paralyzing properties, physicians are using
it for treatment like neck and shoulder pain,
migraine headaches, prostrate problems, bladder,
hypherhidrosis(excessive sweating) anal fissure
etc... and many more.

Hmmm...to those women with naughty husband
wondering whether this wonderful botox
will do some good.

Reading

2008-07-03T08:04:00.005+08:00

I spend 5 straight days trying to finish
this book A New Earth- Awakening to your
life"s purpose by Eckhart Tolle, as I will be
going to Jakarta. Haven't done some serious
reading except for Her World mags and the
daily news. My daughter bought this book for
me from Spore as I could not find it in any
of the bookstores in JB.

This book is not a novel or a memoir. It is
a spiritual, motivational book and when
I first started reading it I thought
"Oh dear what has retirement done to you?"
But after reading it I realise
it such a wonderful book as its lessons
are boundless. It made me realised more
about myself and my inner self, people
around me, and greater possibilities in life.
Heavy Stuff!

"Tomorrow will never come unless you begin
enjoying what you are doing now"

Ginger needs a detox

2008-06-30T18:48:00.003+08:00

My 8 year old cat is the queen of the house.

She is a wonderful companion to us including

the children and was raised by me as a kitten.

She maybe temperamental and spoilt but she

will always be our cutie pie....

Over the years, she has gained some weight

or as my children puts it wickedly, grossly overweight,

has an expanded waistline and balding at some

areas. Although she is just an ordinary domesticated

"kampung" cat we love her all the same. Her name is

Ginger but with her present silhouette she is now

referred as "Ah Pui" by my husband, "fat kitty" by my

eldest girl, " lard" by her boyfriend, and

"watermelon " by my youngest. As for me she will

always be Ginger.

It's raining poop .

2008-06-28T12:00:00.003+08:00

I read with concern about " Good money in

rearing of swiftlets" in the newspaper. It states

that there are already 566 premises in urban

areas located in Johor being converted to

"swiftlet hotels". This is all in pursuit for bird-nest

industries which is becoming a household name

in urban towns, a lucrative business for those

who owns empty shop houses or unused land.

I certainly hope this is not happening in JB town,

otherwise every Johorean will be walking around

with umbrellas . Besides greetings like "Hello,

Good morning and Byes" will be a thing

of the past. .....In case poop droppings lands in

your mouth! Watch out warung goers!

Daughter for sale!!!

2008-06-27T09:52:00.002+08:00

This is bizarre and hilarious. Read an article from the
net about a website where parents can sell their
daughters off to be married. Of course, this cannot
be happening in Malaysia! Apparently this site is a
hoax and just a prank to find out how many people
would fall into it and guess what ...it lures 20 million
visitors.

This set my mind into wild imagination!...Hmmm
My eldest girl Cher will not fall into this category
(she is already in a relationship)...yup ..Cyn my
youngest fits the criteria alright...her testimonials
would probably be like this.

Cyn
Age: 24
Bride Price: Highest bidder

Our daughter Cyn is a computer geek, spends
her entire off days playing Cabal, an online game
from dawn to dusk. Big savings as she is not a
shopaholic, doesn't party and forgets her mealtimes.
She can be moody and fiery sometimes, but she
is worth it.

Oh dear, will be expecting some calls today....

Namaste

2008-06-26T16:35:00.002+08:00

I went for my yoga class today conducted by Jol my
regular instructor. She is an excellent instructor
with amazing patience, and a favourite among
my gym friends. Her classes are normally full,
so I always try to be early. We did poses like the
down dog, half moon, sun salutations, cats pose,
dolphin pose...yeah you name it we have it all.
My most unaccomplished pose is the Headstand
called the sircha-asana which I have been itching to do
on my own without any assistance ! Have only done this
4 times and every time with full assistance. My favourite
pose is the most easy, referred as corpse pose.

I started practising yoga at age 51 primarily because of
knee and ankle injuries due to years of high
intensity exercises. Yoga has benefited me
in many areas, like making me more patient,
maintaining a good night sleep, gives me
more flexibility and stamina. So you good people
out there...what are you waiting for?

"Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be bent
out of shape"

Think it's time for my mammogram!

2008-06-25T16:32:00.000+08:00

Happened to switch on my favourite talk show,
Oprah... Today she is with Dr. Oz who regularly
comes on her show, to discuss about medical screening.
This is to encourage viewers to get one before its
too late.

Errh...that reminds me I haven't done a mammogram
for the last 3 years. I am very frightened to go for one
as I am more afraid of the results than the screening itself.
It is actually a simple and quick procedure, where they
compress your boobies until like pancake(I am inclined
to think the mammogram machine is invented by a man!)
which creates a little discomfort. And say cheese your
results are out in 15mins.

So I think I have to sort out this problem and set my mind
at rest......but when?????

Favourite time of the Day

2008-06-24T09:49:00.000+08:00

Woke up early this morning about 5.45am and thought
since I am early might as well go to church to attend
mass which starts at 6.30am. Am not professing that
I am a holy person, but I always feel good and at peace
after mass.

I am an early riser, my routine morning activities
is going church sometimes, going to the gym, reading
the newspaper before my husband get his hands on
it, reading my emails and sometimes just sitting at
my balcony doing bird-watching! Don't laugh but
it's really amazing listening to their singing.

I also realise that my two cats including my husband
looks cuter, my coffee smells stronger, my mind fresher
and my muscles are more relax. Won't say the grass
and flowers smells fresh though, hello this is Malaysia!
Where I live, we are behind all the eateries where
their bins of trash emits a foul air!

Gotta go now, I can hear my husband calling for his
coffee. So Spoilt....my fault though.

Sure you can remember?

2008-06-23T20:21:00.000+08:00

I think my daughter is right , didn't do a good job last
night cos I forgot the steps of a few dances. Anyway,
who cares as long as I enjoyed myself!

Kudos to Lily for hosting the party and for bringing
in Robin to teach us his latest choreography "I want
you back" . The music is by bananarama which I can
take my bet my two girls doesn't have the faintest
idea. Thought the music was cool cos this song takes
me back to my clubbing days during the 80's. It is
a 64 counts 4 wall easy intermediate line dance with
no Tags! and Restarts!....love this cos don't have to
remember! hehehehe....hey I am not the only one..ok

Had a great 4 hours dancing non-stop which seemed to
fly by and arrived home about 8.30pm with sore feet
and knees.

Line dancing isn't just country and western anymore,
it has evolved, we have modern, waltz, latin, disco
and hip hop too.

I will always enjoy line dancing because it is a fun way to
exercise both my body and my brain, a great way to
interact with friends and what better way to do a social
activity that does not require dating or partnering ...
(a taboo at my age)

Ready.. get set... DANCE.

2008-06-22T10:41:00.000+08:00

Today I am attending a Line Dance Party organised
by one of my tutors, Lily at Tropical Inn JB. Trying
to remember 56 dances is quite a feat! To make this
affair more enjoyable she has invited Robin and his
party of line dancers who hails from Singapore.
In the pursuit of trying to remember steps, turns,
hop and scoot I have been avoiding the gym this
past week. Reason...don't want to overstrain my knees
and ankles. As I am revising my dances, my second
daughter who is back for the weekend made this
comment, " Mum, you're not going to make it! No
matter how you practise, you cannot compete with
your kiasu counterparts". Refusing to accept the
truth, I retorted " Look here, young lady I took
up line dancing because I enjoy dancing and treats
it as a form of exercise, furthermore it enhances my memory!
So, I am going because I just want to have FUN!"

Trying to stay healthy

2008-06-19T08:56:00.000+08:00

Just prepared a simple breakfast for my hubby
consisting of a cup of coffee with his favourite
Gardenia raisin bread and butter! Mine is
different, Adventist multigrain bread with Olive
Grove and coffee with no sugar. What a contrast!
Despite me nagging at his eating habits he is still
adamant about what he wants to eat, like bakutteh
nasi lemak, ice cream, chocolate...and all the sinful
food you can imagine. Anyway, the reason I try to
eat healthily is because I have seen my own grandparents
and parents struggle with obesity, heart diseases,
diabetes and old age related sickness. I only have
two daughters unlike my parents who had five.
Don't intend to be totally dependant on them because
I did not take care of my own health. I realised
that taking care of it does not guarantee me that
I will be perfectly healthy, but at least my conscious
is clear that I tried. To make a decision to stay
healthy is easy but to ensure I follow it is a task
as I still have to resist my urges not to overeat
during buffets, overindulge my favourite cheesecake
at Coffeebean and to get lazy in my gym regime.

Blogging is like writing a diary

2008-06-17T14:51:00.000+08:00

My eldest girl and her boyfriend are the ones who encouraged

me to start blogging maybe 6 months ago. I took my MSS

option more than a year ago and at first I was busy helping

my husband to run his restaurant business which turned

out to be a failure. We have closed the business, and with

so much time in my hands my daughter suggested that I

blog. Honestly, she is the one who set up this whole thing

for me. I am only 2 days old in this trade, and my hands

are sweaty,....knees knocking...abit nervy about the whole

thing. I still have plenty to learn as I have not developed

the skill to post pictures...etc. However, after having read

a few blogs thought it is kinda cool to blog. To me it's like

writing a diary which I used to do when I was a kid.

In my era, schools and my parents has taught us
to keep diaries in order to encourage the expression of
feelings and thoughts. Obviously time has changed....

Father's Day

2008-06-16T00:09:00.000+08:00

Today is Father's day and while my own children are back in JB celebrating this special day,
I can only reminisce about my own father. Guess I missed him terribly when my parish priest
talked about his own father at mass this morning. As I recalled my childhood, I will always remember him as a loving, forgiving and never asking man. Hard work and value of money are his best qualities. A part of me will never let him go.