Hey I managed to retrieve my blog account and now I can post comments. I like to wish all of you a happy new year and a great 2008. The year 2007 is and will always be momentous and unforgetable year for many of us.
p/s. Faris, can you forward me your Jakarta mailing address. My family would like to send you a thank you card.
****
I am now 84kg and will have to be locked up in a health farm if i get anyheavier. Fortunately for me, I courted Yasmin when I was 15kg lighter.
Cycling has become a solitary activity as I get left behind very early on in group rides and the suffering inflicted on each ride is on a same scale of that in Darfur.
About a month ago, I found myself cycling with a group of 20 something whohave just started this hobby. They all had shiny new bicycles and plenty ofvigour. In the first half of the journey they took off and left me behind like an out of fashion Vincci shoes.
When I got to the regrouping halfway point, most of them looked alittle impatient as they had to wait a good 20 mins for me. They looked at me like I am a washed out old git. In all honesty, they were right.
We took a slightly different route on the way back which consist of cutting through a tough 3km 10% incline pass. It was almost noon and the sun was blazing down on us when we got to the foot of the pass.
I gave the old legs full gas and launched an all out attack. It was like flooring the pedal of a very old car - one can sense the spirit in its hey days and at the same time the innate fear of it sputtering to a stop with little bits dropping every where.
By the time the young guns got back to the car, I already had a change of clothes anda drink at the gerai and was ready to drive home.
The moral of the story is best illustrate by an old adage, 'Old age and treachery will always overcome youth and skill'.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
We are moving.
Despite my ardent hopes for a move back to Malaysia, it looks as if the winds are blowing in another direction. In the spirit of looking forward to 2008, as Ail's posting has inspired, I am looking forward to our move to Luxembourg.
Yup folks, Kim's company is posting him to Luxembourg. Even further away from Malaysia than I could ever imagined.
Negative points:
1. No maid.
2. No maid.
3. No maid.
4. Back to friendlessness
5. Back to struggling finding my way around
6.. Back to bloody square one!!!
7. Worst of all, away from very very very beloved family, mother, father, siblings, cousins, cats and all.
Positive points:
1. At least it is a neutral territory for Kim and I. Rather than Denmark, which would provoke comments like, "The bloody Danish!" from me, and rather than Malaysia, which would provoke sarastic remarks like "Malaysia boleh!" from Kim when Malaysians memang tidak boleh.
2. We can both whine about "These darned Luxembourgish people!"
3. We're in the middle of Europe
4. Which leads to another good point, hopefully being centre of Europe will lure family to visit (we'll be bordering France, Germany, Belgium and a drive away from Switzerland, Holland and Italy). So come!
Hey bad points outweigh good points lah.
If everything goes well, well I say, because Kim misses Europe and wants this posting, we'll all be there in March. If anything goes wrong, and it could in terms of immgration papers for our two adopted children. We still dont know what the final word would be about bringing such a young adopted child into Luxembourg, all we have is Inaaya's birth mother's oath, adoption certificate only issued when child is 2 yrs.
Anyways, thought I'd share the news with you lot before word gets around.
Save up your money and jump on a plane to Europe next year okay?
I'll be back in Malaysia soon, and hope so much that we could have a get together, so that I can spend all my time with you lot! Oh I love you guys so much.
Over and out - Nina Bobo
p.s. I have a tribute in my head for my darling maid, Na. So expect that next. It will be heartwrenching to part from her.
Yup folks, Kim's company is posting him to Luxembourg. Even further away from Malaysia than I could ever imagined.
Negative points:
1. No maid.
2. No maid.
3. No maid.
4. Back to friendlessness
5. Back to struggling finding my way around
6.. Back to bloody square one!!!
7. Worst of all, away from very very very beloved family, mother, father, siblings, cousins, cats and all.
Positive points:
1. At least it is a neutral territory for Kim and I. Rather than Denmark, which would provoke comments like, "The bloody Danish!" from me, and rather than Malaysia, which would provoke sarastic remarks like "Malaysia boleh!" from Kim when Malaysians memang tidak boleh.
2. We can both whine about "These darned Luxembourgish people!"
3. We're in the middle of Europe
4. Which leads to another good point, hopefully being centre of Europe will lure family to visit (we'll be bordering France, Germany, Belgium and a drive away from Switzerland, Holland and Italy). So come!
Hey bad points outweigh good points lah.
If everything goes well, well I say, because Kim misses Europe and wants this posting, we'll all be there in March. If anything goes wrong, and it could in terms of immgration papers for our two adopted children. We still dont know what the final word would be about bringing such a young adopted child into Luxembourg, all we have is Inaaya's birth mother's oath, adoption certificate only issued when child is 2 yrs.
Anyways, thought I'd share the news with you lot before word gets around.
Save up your money and jump on a plane to Europe next year okay?
I'll be back in Malaysia soon, and hope so much that we could have a get together, so that I can spend all my time with you lot! Oh I love you guys so much.
Over and out - Nina Bobo
p.s. I have a tribute in my head for my darling maid, Na. So expect that next. It will be heartwrenching to part from her.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
2007. A good year.
2007. BAD YEAR?
Lets see.
- My beloved father passed away
- Our beloved Mak Chor passed away
- Timmys Father passed away
- So many deaths. I can name three more people i know.
- Tariqs (my close friends) father passed away
- Our family members have been diagnosed with so many illnesses.
I'm sure i missed out more.
PART 1 - TO KNOW HIM
I believe that there is always a good reason for all that happenned this 2007. And to tell you my reasons fully, I would have to tell you a little bit about my father. Kamarul Baharin bin Abdul Hamid.
We were never close. Although i was the only male in the family, brought up with three sisters i was never the man he wanted me to be. We never did see eye to eye. He was into engines, and boats, and structures. I was into computer games, the arts and fun fun fun. Sure, i liked cars. I liked sneaking out his mercedes when i was 15. He didnt know how to handle a son. Three daughters were his practice. But not a son. I never knew much about him. And i reckon i should ask my mom more about him. Where he studied, what he did, the kind of person he was when he was younger, how he wooed my mom. All that still remains a mystery to me. This is something i really need to ask my mom before this information will be lost to me when my mother, one day, inevitably passes away.
This is the little that i know about his past.
At the age of 14, Kamarul was a studious boy at St. Michaels school Ipoh. He has never even seen the outside of Perak. He won some fantastic scholarship that was given yearly to the brightest student in Perak and before he knew it, he was in Kuala Lumpur Sungai Besi Airport. And a day later, London UK.... If it was me, culture shock to the MAX.
He spent his teens, and his early adult life in the UK. His father was good friends with our Nenek, and soon Salmah became Mak Teh, and Kamarul became Pak Et. He was into ships. My mom and him spent months on cargo ships while he was on duty. My father, the engineer.
So you can imagine the kind of person my father was. With high principals, by the book. Engineer. No nonsense. But so darn hard on the outside but soft on the inside, it was almost difficult to spot. He was the most succesful in his family. And at one point, probably the most succesful in our family too. When i was sneaking out his mercedes, he was the General Manager of Delcom, and oil and gas technology company. He left Delcom years later to open up an oil and gas middleman company, and thats when his career took a turn for the worst for him. The company failed. He had to sell most of his property, and we had no money. He kept trying to clinch his deal with this man from Dubai. He tried and he tried. It never happenned for him.
But this was a good thing for me. His failings in his career made him soft on the outside. I'm sure my sisters would agree that Abah became so much closer to us after. It was as if, he let the CEO complex down, and revealed who he truly was. A kind, caring, individual that worked so hard only for his family. There was so much he wanted for us. And in the journey to get this, he showed us so much of himself. Which to me, was more important than his billion dollar dubai deal. He let me know himself a little bit more before he passed.
PART 2 - REGRET
The last time Tia talked about me with him, he felt he had failed me as a father. I didnt get the same kind of attention my sisters got from him. And he was worried that he didnt equip me with enough knowledge to make it in this world. I guess, thats a fathers biggest worry. A couple of days after, he passed away.
PART 3 - MOURNING
This is something i like to share with you guys. The muslim way of funerals is so fantastic. Its quick, yet so emotional. The hardest thing for a son to do for his father in his lifetime is mandi-ing your own fathers jenazah. That was my mourning. 20 minutes of washing the dead body of my beloved father was the most emotionally intense experience i have ever had. I had to accept his death. Theres no more escaping it. He is dead. Washing his cold feet, he is dead. Washing his cold dark face that used to smile upon me, he is dead. Washing his cold fingers that carried me when i was a baby, my father is dead. There is no way your mind can escape from such an experience. As soon as i walked out of the mandi jenazah room, i was okay. I had moved on. That was the end of my mourning. Islam rocks.
PART 4 - HIKMAH
Shortly after he passed away, I made a decision to go freelancing. I had been procrastinating it for ages. I went out, and im doing it. Slowly i am climbing the ranks of the production world. Things started happening. My fathers death had somehow taught me that I am a man. Im no more a boy. I started making things happen for me instead of waiting for it. Inshaallah, this evolution will continue at its rapid state.
I also met a girl i have grown to really love. Nawwar. I dare say, that if my dad had not passed away, i would have shyed away from her like i shyed away from most other girls. Im glad i didnt.
PART 5 - A DIFFERENT PERCEPTION
So guys. What im trying to say is that, 2007 was, in effect a VERY GOOD YEAR. It was a good year that the people we love have returned home. It was time for them to stop guiding us, and for us to start guiding others. Their death was a final lesson from them to us. And what we do from now on reflects their teachings and their love. It's time for us to continue the legacy they left behind. Like how our ancestors left their legacy behind to them. 2008 will be a better year no matter what happens.
No more mourning. No more sadness. No more "This was a bad year".
Abah, I am okay. I'm doing great. I may not be home all the time, but im doing great. In life, you didnt say much to me, but you have taught me so much. I have no regrets abah, and i hope you had none either. I will always try to lead a good life and as a good person like how you led a good life and as a good person. And i will teach my children one day of what i had learnt from you. And they in turn will teach their children. And nothing will be lost. You had a beautiful death abah. I only pray that one day, my death will be as beautiful as yours.
Lets see.
- My beloved father passed away
- Our beloved Mak Chor passed away
- Timmys Father passed away
- So many deaths. I can name three more people i know.
- Tariqs (my close friends) father passed away
- Our family members have been diagnosed with so many illnesses.
I'm sure i missed out more.
PART 1 - TO KNOW HIM
I believe that there is always a good reason for all that happenned this 2007. And to tell you my reasons fully, I would have to tell you a little bit about my father. Kamarul Baharin bin Abdul Hamid.
We were never close. Although i was the only male in the family, brought up with three sisters i was never the man he wanted me to be. We never did see eye to eye. He was into engines, and boats, and structures. I was into computer games, the arts and fun fun fun. Sure, i liked cars. I liked sneaking out his mercedes when i was 15. He didnt know how to handle a son. Three daughters were his practice. But not a son. I never knew much about him. And i reckon i should ask my mom more about him. Where he studied, what he did, the kind of person he was when he was younger, how he wooed my mom. All that still remains a mystery to me. This is something i really need to ask my mom before this information will be lost to me when my mother, one day, inevitably passes away.
This is the little that i know about his past.
At the age of 14, Kamarul was a studious boy at St. Michaels school Ipoh. He has never even seen the outside of Perak. He won some fantastic scholarship that was given yearly to the brightest student in Perak and before he knew it, he was in Kuala Lumpur Sungai Besi Airport. And a day later, London UK.... If it was me, culture shock to the MAX.
He spent his teens, and his early adult life in the UK. His father was good friends with our Nenek, and soon Salmah became Mak Teh, and Kamarul became Pak Et. He was into ships. My mom and him spent months on cargo ships while he was on duty. My father, the engineer.
So you can imagine the kind of person my father was. With high principals, by the book. Engineer. No nonsense. But so darn hard on the outside but soft on the inside, it was almost difficult to spot. He was the most succesful in his family. And at one point, probably the most succesful in our family too. When i was sneaking out his mercedes, he was the General Manager of Delcom, and oil and gas technology company. He left Delcom years later to open up an oil and gas middleman company, and thats when his career took a turn for the worst for him. The company failed. He had to sell most of his property, and we had no money. He kept trying to clinch his deal with this man from Dubai. He tried and he tried. It never happenned for him.
But this was a good thing for me. His failings in his career made him soft on the outside. I'm sure my sisters would agree that Abah became so much closer to us after. It was as if, he let the CEO complex down, and revealed who he truly was. A kind, caring, individual that worked so hard only for his family. There was so much he wanted for us. And in the journey to get this, he showed us so much of himself. Which to me, was more important than his billion dollar dubai deal. He let me know himself a little bit more before he passed.
PART 2 - REGRET
The last time Tia talked about me with him, he felt he had failed me as a father. I didnt get the same kind of attention my sisters got from him. And he was worried that he didnt equip me with enough knowledge to make it in this world. I guess, thats a fathers biggest worry. A couple of days after, he passed away.
PART 3 - MOURNING
This is something i like to share with you guys. The muslim way of funerals is so fantastic. Its quick, yet so emotional. The hardest thing for a son to do for his father in his lifetime is mandi-ing your own fathers jenazah. That was my mourning. 20 minutes of washing the dead body of my beloved father was the most emotionally intense experience i have ever had. I had to accept his death. Theres no more escaping it. He is dead. Washing his cold feet, he is dead. Washing his cold dark face that used to smile upon me, he is dead. Washing his cold fingers that carried me when i was a baby, my father is dead. There is no way your mind can escape from such an experience. As soon as i walked out of the mandi jenazah room, i was okay. I had moved on. That was the end of my mourning. Islam rocks.
PART 4 - HIKMAH
Shortly after he passed away, I made a decision to go freelancing. I had been procrastinating it for ages. I went out, and im doing it. Slowly i am climbing the ranks of the production world. Things started happening. My fathers death had somehow taught me that I am a man. Im no more a boy. I started making things happen for me instead of waiting for it. Inshaallah, this evolution will continue at its rapid state.
I also met a girl i have grown to really love. Nawwar. I dare say, that if my dad had not passed away, i would have shyed away from her like i shyed away from most other girls. Im glad i didnt.
PART 5 - A DIFFERENT PERCEPTION
So guys. What im trying to say is that, 2007 was, in effect a VERY GOOD YEAR. It was a good year that the people we love have returned home. It was time for them to stop guiding us, and for us to start guiding others. Their death was a final lesson from them to us. And what we do from now on reflects their teachings and their love. It's time for us to continue the legacy they left behind. Like how our ancestors left their legacy behind to them. 2008 will be a better year no matter what happens.
No more mourning. No more sadness. No more "This was a bad year".
Abah, I am okay. I'm doing great. I may not be home all the time, but im doing great. In life, you didnt say much to me, but you have taught me so much. I have no regrets abah, and i hope you had none either. I will always try to lead a good life and as a good person like how you led a good life and as a good person. And i will teach my children one day of what i had learnt from you. And they in turn will teach their children. And nothing will be lost. You had a beautiful death abah. I only pray that one day, my death will be as beautiful as yours.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
another sad day- Timmy's Father
Dear Family,
I just wanted to let everyone know that Timmy's father, passed away in Jakarta, on Thursday, 13th February 2007. He was buried yesterday at Kiara.
I also want to take the chance here, on behalf of my family, to thank Faris & Aisha for all the help and support to Timmy's family, in the arrangements to bring the jenazah home.
We are grateful to Allah for family like you guys... Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
The Prayer of a Three Year Old.
Earlier today we passed a truck of fat pink pigs headed for the slaughter house. Taufik was feeling so sad that they were going to die, "But their Mommy and Daddy will be so sad, cause they miss them Mommy." he said, his lips trembling preparing for a great waterfall of tears.
And so tonight I was putting Taufik and Inaaya to sleep, when he decided to say his dua.
"Bismillahirrahmanirrahim. Allah, can you please give us a lot of children? We only have two children now. Can you let Mommy have children in her tummy? And those pigs, are going to die, and you made them Allah. Allah, I am going to die too one day, I will be buried. But I am coming back to you okay? Okay...bye...bye Allah. Amiiiiiiin"
I really wanted to bury my head in the pillow with great laughter as my son sniffed and swallowed a sob back when he mentioned the sad fate of the pigs.
That's a prayer of a naughty child folks!
Nina Bobo
And so tonight I was putting Taufik and Inaaya to sleep, when he decided to say his dua.
"Bismillahirrahmanirrahim. Allah, can you please give us a lot of children? We only have two children now. Can you let Mommy have children in her tummy? And those pigs, are going to die, and you made them Allah. Allah, I am going to die too one day, I will be buried. But I am coming back to you okay? Okay...bye...bye Allah. Amiiiiiiin"
I really wanted to bury my head in the pillow with great laughter as my son sniffed and swallowed a sob back when he mentioned the sad fate of the pigs.
That's a prayer of a naughty child folks!
Nina Bobo
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Driving me nuts at 3.
"Mommy, can you tell me a story please." Taufik makes his daily request on the way to school, on the way home, on the way for groceries, on the way to God knows where. And sometimes, I am just too darned tired to tell him a story. Recently, I told him, "Not today darling, Mommy's too tired." His response, hands flung into the air, "Fine Mommy! It's Fine! It's fine for you. But it's not fine for me." He was, to say the least, exasperated with me in a frightenningly grown up way.
I told Taufik the other day to put his water toys away in the basket in the bathroom. He says infuriated, "What is the problem Mommy? I am busy, why are you asking me to do this now?" Oh my temper flared when I heard that response.
Today, his father asked him to please help him throw something away in the rubbish bin, he puts his hands onto his chin and says, "Far, you can do it yourself. You have got legs, you can walk."
At all times, talking back moments such as these are met with me saying something in the line of, "Do not use that tone on me young man." While using the same very exasperated tone that he just gave me. Double standards, bloody hell, I am guilty of it.
Okay, Okay, I confess, I've said these very same words to him myself. I can hear me talking out of his mouth. Telling him not too long ago, that he was big enough to throw the rubbish away himself, and that God gave him a pair of legs to do this.
And now it's come back to haunt me.
How do I undo this thing?
I've got to keep my temper in check and I've got to stop shooting my mouth off. But darned it, it is so darned hard when you've got a balking pre-schooler who can also talk his mouth off.
I am scared like hell, scareder than when that ghost followed me to the bus stop at Highland Towers. I kid you not.
Taufik has come to that stage where he knows how to fight back, to answer back, to argue back. And sometimes I am at a loss. These last two weeks, I have been a model mom, and to help me be a model mom, I am sure to be in bed by 10.00p.m. except tonight I was enjoying Desperate Housewives too much. I am a terrible mother, when I dont get enough sleep, as Hidayah would happily vouch. And his behaviour has improved, but this talking back, these ingenious responses keep taking me by surprise.
Why is there a constant battle? No Taufik, you know there is not TV on the weekdays. No, Taufik, no more candies. No, Taufik, no swimming today. No, Taufik, you cannot go to your nanny's house today. It's mad!!! It's driving me mad, all these 'Nos' coming out of my mouth, and it sure never fails to get my son to rebel.
I tell myself it's the age, he'll settle down again soon. But, I am having nightmares about his coming teenage years. What happenned to my sweet little boy?
Advice folks!
Nina Bobo, Desperate Mom (He he he)
I told Taufik the other day to put his water toys away in the basket in the bathroom. He says infuriated, "What is the problem Mommy? I am busy, why are you asking me to do this now?" Oh my temper flared when I heard that response.
Today, his father asked him to please help him throw something away in the rubbish bin, he puts his hands onto his chin and says, "Far, you can do it yourself. You have got legs, you can walk."
At all times, talking back moments such as these are met with me saying something in the line of, "Do not use that tone on me young man." While using the same very exasperated tone that he just gave me. Double standards, bloody hell, I am guilty of it.
Okay, Okay, I confess, I've said these very same words to him myself. I can hear me talking out of his mouth. Telling him not too long ago, that he was big enough to throw the rubbish away himself, and that God gave him a pair of legs to do this.
And now it's come back to haunt me.
How do I undo this thing?
I've got to keep my temper in check and I've got to stop shooting my mouth off. But darned it, it is so darned hard when you've got a balking pre-schooler who can also talk his mouth off.
I am scared like hell, scareder than when that ghost followed me to the bus stop at Highland Towers. I kid you not.
Taufik has come to that stage where he knows how to fight back, to answer back, to argue back. And sometimes I am at a loss. These last two weeks, I have been a model mom, and to help me be a model mom, I am sure to be in bed by 10.00p.m. except tonight I was enjoying Desperate Housewives too much. I am a terrible mother, when I dont get enough sleep, as Hidayah would happily vouch. And his behaviour has improved, but this talking back, these ingenious responses keep taking me by surprise.
Why is there a constant battle? No Taufik, you know there is not TV on the weekdays. No, Taufik, no more candies. No, Taufik, no swimming today. No, Taufik, you cannot go to your nanny's house today. It's mad!!! It's driving me mad, all these 'Nos' coming out of my mouth, and it sure never fails to get my son to rebel.
I tell myself it's the age, he'll settle down again soon. But, I am having nightmares about his coming teenage years. What happenned to my sweet little boy?
Advice folks!
Nina Bobo, Desperate Mom (He he he)
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Butternut Squash Risotto
Taken from my favourite children's recipe book, "Annabel Karmel's Feeding Your Baby & Toddler". We have been enjoying Bangkok's chilly winter, and have used the beautiful weather to enjoy picnics at the playground. While Taufik runs around, Inaaya is on her front on the mat enjoying the kids gathered around her. At the last picnic, I cooked this risotto and it was enjoyed by children and adult alike.
Butternut Squash Risotto (Can be replaced with carrots)
Butternut Squash Risotto (Can be replaced with carrots)
Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Provides: Beta-carotene, calcium, potassium, and vitamin B2, B12 and E.
Ingredients:
175gms butternut squash, peeled and cut into small cubes (or carrot if none is available)
1 tbsp olive oil
generous knob of butter
1 onion, peeled and finely chopped
1 garlic clove
175 gms risotto rice
600ml hot vegetable stock or chicken stock
8 sage leaves
3 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
salt and freshly grounded black pepper
Method:
1. Steam the squash for 5 minutes.
2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a heavy-based pan and saute the onion and garlic over low heat until soft but not coloured.
3. Add the rice and stir until well coated. Cook over medium heat for about 25 minutes, adding the stock one ladleful at a time, allowing the rice to absorb each ladleful of liquid well before adding the next.
4. About 10 minutes before th end of the cooking time, add the squash and sage. Continue to add the stock until it is all used up.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season to taste. The risotto should be thick and creamy, and the texture of the rice should be soft on the outside but firm in the centre.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
2007
It's been a difficult year for all of us.
In the short span of merely a few months, starting from the death of my father, where on the same day, Pak Su Mapghur also suffered from a heart attack, Pak Long not being so well, Pak Su Men going through the andioplasty and after that Pakcik Kebar had a bypass, and then now, Mak Chor leaving us. Not to mention the in betweens where Omar was hospitalised a twice, I was hospitalised for various illnesses three times, and my mom was hospitalised just a week ago, for food poisoning.
It's too much for all of us to take at once! Too much. Mak Cik Ati mentioned yesterday, that we need to take iktibhar from all of this.
Please let us doa today for all the people that we have lost in this family of ours....starting from Abg Hisham, Nenek, Mak Tua, Pak Ali, Papa, Abg Halim, Abah (Pak Eid) and Mak Chor. Let us remember them for whatever ways they have touched our lives.
Cousins, it's our time to take over now I think. Our time to be the "anchor" of the family. We must keep the family close and together. That is what our beloved Mak Chor would have wanted. She loved all of us and had time for everybody. What an amazing person.
We love you Mak Chor. We miss you.
In the short span of merely a few months, starting from the death of my father, where on the same day, Pak Su Mapghur also suffered from a heart attack, Pak Long not being so well, Pak Su Men going through the andioplasty and after that Pakcik Kebar had a bypass, and then now, Mak Chor leaving us. Not to mention the in betweens where Omar was hospitalised a twice, I was hospitalised for various illnesses three times, and my mom was hospitalised just a week ago, for food poisoning.
It's too much for all of us to take at once! Too much. Mak Cik Ati mentioned yesterday, that we need to take iktibhar from all of this.
Please let us doa today for all the people that we have lost in this family of ours....starting from Abg Hisham, Nenek, Mak Tua, Pak Ali, Papa, Abg Halim, Abah (Pak Eid) and Mak Chor. Let us remember them for whatever ways they have touched our lives.
Cousins, it's our time to take over now I think. Our time to be the "anchor" of the family. We must keep the family close and together. That is what our beloved Mak Chor would have wanted. She loved all of us and had time for everybody. What an amazing person.
We love you Mak Chor. We miss you.
The Anchor of this Family - Mak Chor
It is hard to grieve the loss of a loved one when you are so far away - as Aisha and Julia probably well know. And it helps to be able to share this grief with other loved ones through this blog. I still have a few more things to say about our dearest Mak Chor and I hope that it is alright I write my thoughts down here.
Julia, do you remember the time when Mak Chor took care of you when you were younger? I dont know why you stayed with her, perhaps your mother was away at work? Mak Chor took care of me too, I was very young and had literally stopped eating due to the heart break of losing my nanny. So my mother thought that Mak Chor could help out.
In one of our last conversations with her, Mak Chor, Dayah and I, we reminisced about those times. She loved you Julia, and was constantly worrying about your well being. I thought you might want to know that.
She has done so much for me, looked out for a baby for me, picked Taufik up from the hospital with my mom and Dayah when he was delivered, visited a potential baby in the dead of the night with me, held Inaaya in her arms and shared my joy with me. Decorated her house with ribbons and niqah cushions for my very spartan and cheap wedding when I expected nothing. I can only imagine what she has done for others.
Not too long ago, Kim and I visited her and ever the economist he asked her how much the Damansara Heights house would fetch. She told him. Kim said to her how it would be a good idea to sell the house and buy another one and still have a lot left over for other spendings. Mak Chor just smiled in response, rather mysteriously too, as if there was a secret that amused her.
I wondered why.
Perhaps she thought that this house was the hearth which the family would gather around. The heart of it all. The first house to go to on Raya mornings. The house to visit when one is troubled. The house to be in when one wants to revert and declare shahadah. The house to find shelter when one needed to take a breath, like Hidayah. The house to gather when someone has passed away, like our dearest Pak Aid. The house to be married in, as in the case of me, Yakmin, her much loved son Arif and many more.
But the truth of the matter was that she was the centre of it all. The light that drew the moths. She was the hearth. Not the house. Like my mom said to me while sobbing over the phone, "She is the anchor Nina, the anchor to our family, now there is a big void that she is gone." How right she is.
What a life she led, what a full life. She is an inspiration to me. How could I ever model such an incredible woman? How could I ever match the generosity that her heart posessed, to welcome so many people into her life and her heart? I can only be inspired and to try and be a better Muslim. To put into practise the advise she gave to me during her life, so that I may benefit from that wisdom and she may benefit from her good deeds. Few of the many good deeds she has done in her life.
In her death, I find I do not shed tears of regret, I shed tears from the loss and missing of her. I shed tears for the people who have lost her when they still needed her so much. But this is takdir and Allah (SWT) surely has given all of us the means to cope.
Are we not fortunate that we have had her all these years in our lives? That we have been blessed with her in our family, instead of another? I hope that she too had found herself fortunate to have spent her life loving, caring and guiding us.
Once again, I would like to dua that Allah (SWT) have mercy upon her soul, and to bless her with Jannah. It will be but a short time before we shall be united again. This life is so short and fleeting.
Nina
Julia, do you remember the time when Mak Chor took care of you when you were younger? I dont know why you stayed with her, perhaps your mother was away at work? Mak Chor took care of me too, I was very young and had literally stopped eating due to the heart break of losing my nanny. So my mother thought that Mak Chor could help out.
In one of our last conversations with her, Mak Chor, Dayah and I, we reminisced about those times. She loved you Julia, and was constantly worrying about your well being. I thought you might want to know that.
She has done so much for me, looked out for a baby for me, picked Taufik up from the hospital with my mom and Dayah when he was delivered, visited a potential baby in the dead of the night with me, held Inaaya in her arms and shared my joy with me. Decorated her house with ribbons and niqah cushions for my very spartan and cheap wedding when I expected nothing. I can only imagine what she has done for others.
Not too long ago, Kim and I visited her and ever the economist he asked her how much the Damansara Heights house would fetch. She told him. Kim said to her how it would be a good idea to sell the house and buy another one and still have a lot left over for other spendings. Mak Chor just smiled in response, rather mysteriously too, as if there was a secret that amused her.
I wondered why.
Perhaps she thought that this house was the hearth which the family would gather around. The heart of it all. The first house to go to on Raya mornings. The house to visit when one is troubled. The house to be in when one wants to revert and declare shahadah. The house to find shelter when one needed to take a breath, like Hidayah. The house to gather when someone has passed away, like our dearest Pak Aid. The house to be married in, as in the case of me, Yakmin, her much loved son Arif and many more.
But the truth of the matter was that she was the centre of it all. The light that drew the moths. She was the hearth. Not the house. Like my mom said to me while sobbing over the phone, "She is the anchor Nina, the anchor to our family, now there is a big void that she is gone." How right she is.
What a life she led, what a full life. She is an inspiration to me. How could I ever model such an incredible woman? How could I ever match the generosity that her heart posessed, to welcome so many people into her life and her heart? I can only be inspired and to try and be a better Muslim. To put into practise the advise she gave to me during her life, so that I may benefit from that wisdom and she may benefit from her good deeds. Few of the many good deeds she has done in her life.
In her death, I find I do not shed tears of regret, I shed tears from the loss and missing of her. I shed tears for the people who have lost her when they still needed her so much. But this is takdir and Allah (SWT) surely has given all of us the means to cope.
Are we not fortunate that we have had her all these years in our lives? That we have been blessed with her in our family, instead of another? I hope that she too had found herself fortunate to have spent her life loving, caring and guiding us.
Once again, I would like to dua that Allah (SWT) have mercy upon her soul, and to bless her with Jannah. It will be but a short time before we shall be united again. This life is so short and fleeting.
Nina
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The Sweetest n Nicest Person I had the pleasure to know
I guess the topic says it all..........we'll forever miss you......
Lotsa Loves
Faris, Aisha , Mikael n Malik
Jakarta
PS: We'r still trying to arrange the earliest flight back ..will inform further once confirmed
Monday, November 12, 2007
Breastfeeding for Adoptive Parents
Hafizah asked me recently how is it that I managed to breastfeed Taufik and Inaaya. And I thought that while I have the information at hand, I should share it with everyone else. Some of you in the near future might have friends who are adopting and wish to do the same, so I thought I'd share with you the links and other basic but important information. I'll label this as "Adoption"
My experience in trying to produce milk is to end up in consultation with a doctor and sent packing home with motilium (hormone) pills. With no guidance, no protocol - I was at a loss. Until I found and followed these protocols.
This site AskLenore provides you with the detailed protocols for producing breast milk. It takes into consideration your unique circumstances, for instance that the child is expected in 30 days, or the child is already with your family or perhaps your are menopausal. Each situation demands different protocol. (Also very informative for mothers with low milk supply)
Here's the link for the protocols.
Newman-Goldfarb Protocols for Induced Lactation - The Guide for Maximizing Milk Supply
Even though you will start producing milk - most often it is not enough to feed the child fully and you will need to use a nursing supplement. There are two in market at present, Medela SNS and Lact Aid. I have tried both, and true to feedback I have found on the net, the Lact Aid system is superior.
The great thing is that the Medela SNS system is available in KL. It can be found in Ampang Point at Dataran Palma, just look for the Medela Products distributor.
Lact Aid is not available locally, but can be bought off the net. I have gotten them to send supplies to both Malaysia and Thailand with no problems.
That's about all the information you need, and one more thing, motilium is widely available over the counter, it is much cheaper. It is FDA approved.
Persevere and inshaAllah it will work!!!
My experience in trying to produce milk is to end up in consultation with a doctor and sent packing home with motilium (hormone) pills. With no guidance, no protocol - I was at a loss. Until I found and followed these protocols.
This site AskLenore provides you with the detailed protocols for producing breast milk. It takes into consideration your unique circumstances, for instance that the child is expected in 30 days, or the child is already with your family or perhaps your are menopausal. Each situation demands different protocol. (Also very informative for mothers with low milk supply)
Here's the link for the protocols.
Newman-Goldfarb Protocols for Induced Lactation - The Guide for Maximizing Milk Supply
Even though you will start producing milk - most often it is not enough to feed the child fully and you will need to use a nursing supplement. There are two in market at present, Medela SNS and Lact Aid. I have tried both, and true to feedback I have found on the net, the Lact Aid system is superior.
The great thing is that the Medela SNS system is available in KL. It can be found in Ampang Point at Dataran Palma, just look for the Medela Products distributor.
Lact Aid is not available locally, but can be bought off the net. I have gotten them to send supplies to both Malaysia and Thailand with no problems.
That's about all the information you need, and one more thing, motilium is widely available over the counter, it is much cheaper. It is FDA approved.
Persevere and inshaAllah it will work!!!
Friday, November 09, 2007
A Kodak Moment
The picture with Ail, Hanna and Min was taken on raya day at Makdah's place. Akir took the picture. He also sent some other pictures to some of us on facebook and for those without a facebook account, well...one of the things that you have to live without huh?
I am cracking my head for something to write about, but I can't for the life of me, think of anything good to say....
Only that I am so happy and grateful to Allah, that Hanna and Min are happily married, that my mom is moving to Sri Hartamas soon, to be closer to all of us, that Ail is doing pretty okay with his work, that Rifdi did ok for his exams recently, that Omar is well, that Akir is back in KL with us. We are all doing ok....
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
A little change in how we think - the Malay Dilemma?
I didnt know that he had lost his brother Gg. That's hard to deal with.
Ariff, sounds like that was the final word from you. As always brief and to the point.
I used to feel in a similar way about a lot of things that the Malaysian government did, like the Twin Towers, thought it was a waste of money. But it placed Malaysia on the world map.
What about KLIA? It's one of the top airports in the world in a recent global survey. Suvarnabhum airport doesnt even figure in the list.
When you're in the middle of it, you cant make out the forest from the trees.
While taxes are the preoccupation of the Danish people, complaining about the latest government initiative is the preoccupation of Malaysians. And that's a good thing in many ways, constructive criticism is always good. But sometimes, take a break and have a look at where we are. For one moment, close your eyes to the terrible parts of Malaysia.
We could be like Indonesia. Or Phillippines or under military rule like Thailand. Or we could be like Pakistan. But we are not.
And living here in Thailand, listening to the envy of the Thais. Looking at the various neighbouring nationalities that requires visa for entry whilst a Malaysian doesnt.
It's called being respected. and it's all these little things that together count for something.
Petronas in Formula One. First Malaysian in space. Twin Towers. KLIA...and so the list goes on.
While we pooh pooh it, others dont.
Talking of Malaysa I just read that 8.6% of Malays live in poverty (that's almost 1 out of every 10 Malays), but only 2.8 percent of Malaysian Indians are at that level. We are being left behind. I think instead of being so critical all the time, it's time for Malays to get inspired by the achievement of others and try.
And I am not done yet, it's hard for me to be here with my Malaysian friends of which very few are Malays. (Why is that so you think? Lack of entreprenerial spirit?)
I am as a person, like water, people tend to get comfortable and occasionally the truth slips out. It's hard to hear the ugly truth, that the Malays are not respected. No - that the Malays are looked upon with a certain disgust - "of course not you Alena, we dont mean you...but..."
I am asked -
Why is it a Malay child that is brutally sexually raped, with carrots and cucumber inserted in her? Could it be a Chinese who did it? Or a Malay?
Why is it Malay grandfathers that commit incest?
Why is it Malay men/boys that commit most sexual crimes against women and children?
What is happening to us? I'd like to know the answer to that.
I think at the end of it all, it boils down to attitude and certain way of thinking. All I am asking here is a little change in thinking.
One last thing, those of you who have not seen "A Mighty Heart" starring Angelina Jolie should see it. You will be glad that you are not a Pakistani and that you're not living in Pakistan.
But then again, it seems as if things are changing, according to my non Malays friends, they are glad to be rid of Malaysia, "that country is going to the dogs" they say.
I hope not, because I love Malaysia. We just need some changes. We're not beyond hope.
I hope I can make a difference in my children. While many a times I have thought that your pay cheque is representative of your value as a person, which makes me - a housewife and full time mother- a person of no worth. But I brush aside those negative thoughts and persevere, cause I hope I make a difference by bringing up my children free of neglect and to grow up to be productive inspiring people - even if they dont - I know that I've tried. I hope that counts for something to make a difference in the Malays.
Ariff, sounds like that was the final word from you. As always brief and to the point.
I used to feel in a similar way about a lot of things that the Malaysian government did, like the Twin Towers, thought it was a waste of money. But it placed Malaysia on the world map.
What about KLIA? It's one of the top airports in the world in a recent global survey. Suvarnabhum airport doesnt even figure in the list.
When you're in the middle of it, you cant make out the forest from the trees.
While taxes are the preoccupation of the Danish people, complaining about the latest government initiative is the preoccupation of Malaysians. And that's a good thing in many ways, constructive criticism is always good. But sometimes, take a break and have a look at where we are. For one moment, close your eyes to the terrible parts of Malaysia.
We could be like Indonesia. Or Phillippines or under military rule like Thailand. Or we could be like Pakistan. But we are not.
And living here in Thailand, listening to the envy of the Thais. Looking at the various neighbouring nationalities that requires visa for entry whilst a Malaysian doesnt.
It's called being respected. and it's all these little things that together count for something.
Petronas in Formula One. First Malaysian in space. Twin Towers. KLIA...and so the list goes on.
While we pooh pooh it, others dont.
Talking of Malaysa I just read that 8.6% of Malays live in poverty (that's almost 1 out of every 10 Malays), but only 2.8 percent of Malaysian Indians are at that level. We are being left behind. I think instead of being so critical all the time, it's time for Malays to get inspired by the achievement of others and try.
And I am not done yet, it's hard for me to be here with my Malaysian friends of which very few are Malays. (Why is that so you think? Lack of entreprenerial spirit?)
I am as a person, like water, people tend to get comfortable and occasionally the truth slips out. It's hard to hear the ugly truth, that the Malays are not respected. No - that the Malays are looked upon with a certain disgust - "of course not you Alena, we dont mean you...but..."
I am asked -
Why is it a Malay child that is brutally sexually raped, with carrots and cucumber inserted in her? Could it be a Chinese who did it? Or a Malay?
Why is it Malay grandfathers that commit incest?
Why is it Malay men/boys that commit most sexual crimes against women and children?
What is happening to us? I'd like to know the answer to that.
I think at the end of it all, it boils down to attitude and certain way of thinking. All I am asking here is a little change in thinking.
One last thing, those of you who have not seen "A Mighty Heart" starring Angelina Jolie should see it. You will be glad that you are not a Pakistani and that you're not living in Pakistan.
But then again, it seems as if things are changing, according to my non Malays friends, they are glad to be rid of Malaysia, "that country is going to the dogs" they say.
I hope not, because I love Malaysia. We just need some changes. We're not beyond hope.
I hope I can make a difference in my children. While many a times I have thought that your pay cheque is representative of your value as a person, which makes me - a housewife and full time mother- a person of no worth. But I brush aside those negative thoughts and persevere, cause I hope I make a difference by bringing up my children free of neglect and to grow up to be productive inspiring people - even if they dont - I know that I've tried. I hope that counts for something to make a difference in the Malays.
Monday, November 05, 2007
First Malaysian into Space
I said to my gang of friends after a sweaty game of badminton, "Isn't it great a Malaysian in space?" (Not to mention, the first Muslim in space). Typical Malaysian reaction was what I received, comments like "Alaah what nonsense.", and "How difficult can it be to go into space?" "What...anyone can go into space, no big deal one."
But it is a big deal, it is a big deal for Malaysians, specifically Malaysian children, the dream to go into space no longer belongs in the lives of American children, "When I grow up I want to be an astronaut." but it is now a real possibility for Malaysians.
When something has never been done before it belongs in the realm of the impossible. It was unimaginable that conception could take place in a laboratory once upon a time no so long ago. I imagine that the first heart transplant was nearly impossible, with many-a-naysayers saying it was impossible.
But the truth is that when something once thought impossible, cease to be so when someone makes it possible.
The first climber up Mount Everest faced the most difficult obstacle, the ever niggling doubt that this dream was unachieavable. The second climber, climbs knowing that it is possible, cause its been done before.
Let us not pooh pooh these achievements cause it makes the unreal a reality. That lady Malaysian doctor that traversed across South Pole has shown our Malaysian children that they too can do it.
Now we have stories of role models, not just the likes of American Neil Armstrong, but Malaysians. And think of it, it's not a Korean, Taiwanese, Singaporean, Indonesian nor Arab that went up into space it was a good old Malaysian.
I say hooray to that!
What are your thoughts?
But it is a big deal, it is a big deal for Malaysians, specifically Malaysian children, the dream to go into space no longer belongs in the lives of American children, "When I grow up I want to be an astronaut." but it is now a real possibility for Malaysians.
When something has never been done before it belongs in the realm of the impossible. It was unimaginable that conception could take place in a laboratory once upon a time no so long ago. I imagine that the first heart transplant was nearly impossible, with many-a-naysayers saying it was impossible.
But the truth is that when something once thought impossible, cease to be so when someone makes it possible.
The first climber up Mount Everest faced the most difficult obstacle, the ever niggling doubt that this dream was unachieavable. The second climber, climbs knowing that it is possible, cause its been done before.
Let us not pooh pooh these achievements cause it makes the unreal a reality. That lady Malaysian doctor that traversed across South Pole has shown our Malaysian children that they too can do it.
Now we have stories of role models, not just the likes of American Neil Armstrong, but Malaysians. And think of it, it's not a Korean, Taiwanese, Singaporean, Indonesian nor Arab that went up into space it was a good old Malaysian.
I say hooray to that!
What are your thoughts?
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Ana & Shikin
Oh yes, it stumbled across my mind today that I dont even know the names of your children Ana and Shikin. Do you think you could post in your kids pictures plus their names?
Oh and Shikin, I also remembered that you asked me if I could send out invite to your dad cause he wanted to post some pictures. I never responded did I? Tardy? Sorry about that, it completely slipped my mind.
The crux of the matter is that, this blog's membership is by majority vote (yes there is a tiny minority which disagrees with this stand - like me- he he he - and yes that was a nervous chuckle) only open to the cousins. Hana's desperate attempts to get Rifdy an invite has been met with strong rebuff from Aisha. My suggestion to invite Dina has also been turned down. So your dad, and all the other uncles and aunties (pensioners though they may be, with ample time on their hands) do not meet the membership requirement.
There are just too many naughty secrets to be found on this blog.
Anyways, sorry about the late reply on that. Tia suggested that your dad join the WhoLetTheDinsOut group on Facebook - let's get all the aunties and uncles there. Then we can have unrestricted fun with the old folks, minus the naughtiness. My mom would be horrified to know how many times I mentioned the word "bloody" on this blog.
Nina Bobo Chins
Oh and Shikin, I also remembered that you asked me if I could send out invite to your dad cause he wanted to post some pictures. I never responded did I? Tardy? Sorry about that, it completely slipped my mind.
The crux of the matter is that, this blog's membership is by majority vote (yes there is a tiny minority which disagrees with this stand - like me- he he he - and yes that was a nervous chuckle) only open to the cousins. Hana's desperate attempts to get Rifdy an invite has been met with strong rebuff from Aisha. My suggestion to invite Dina has also been turned down. So your dad, and all the other uncles and aunties (pensioners though they may be, with ample time on their hands) do not meet the membership requirement.
There are just too many naughty secrets to be found on this blog.
Anyways, sorry about the late reply on that. Tia suggested that your dad join the WhoLetTheDinsOut group on Facebook - let's get all the aunties and uncles there. Then we can have unrestricted fun with the old folks, minus the naughtiness. My mom would be horrified to know how many times I mentioned the word "bloody" on this blog.
Nina Bobo Chins
Tak Laku Mom
I walked out of the lift early this morning, quite excited to see that my "Learn to Swim" poster has been hung up. It's an invitation for children to join Taufik in his swimming classes on Mondays. If I could get at least 2 more kids to participate I would save money with lower fees and Taufik would have more fun learning to swim with friends.
The whole day has passed by and not a single soul has called me. But this little misadventure has yet to end, still five days to go then posters would be removed from all the apartment blocks. So I am not disheartened yet.
Last week though, I sent out invitations to be inserted in the contact book of Taufik's classmates. Being the eager beaver that I am, I had painstakingly designed a "Fun in the Sun" invite on Publisher...asking all and sundry to join Taufik for some fun in the sun. Taufik loves his classmates, and has been begging me to invite his friends to our pool for a swim.
But I was full of trepidation, cause in my gut I suspect parents either would not have the time nor the inclination to make so much effort. They're mostly Thais and their children have ample social interaction with their Thai family and friends. Why would they go out on a limb to befriend a Farang (a term for both 'foreigners' and 'guava' - is it a foreign exotic fruit?- is that so Ned?) and endure the embarassment of stumbling through their halting English?
No response came through the contact book. Teacher Raihana was disappointed for Taufik and I. Imagine that? Four moms called, one called tentatively to ask what it was all about. I think I frightened the bejesus out of her with my throaty Rod Stewart voice (was suffering from a major sore throat). Friday came and no one turned up...except for my back up of good friends and their children. I had Plan B all ready in case of such a failure.
I went up to T's school teacher to ask her why such a dismal (actually non-existent) showing. He he he. She explained how she rarely got replies to the forms and letters she sends out. How many of them do not understand English. How far my place is. Oh God...my son is doomed to never have school friends over to his house. Oh dear. My parting words to Taufik's teacher, "This is not the last they've heard of me. I am not giving up."
I called up all the four moms and gently probed them on how I could lure them and their kids over.
I am not giving up folks. In fact I take this as a personal challenge.
While the kids were playing at the pool, my other friends said to me,
"Maybe they dont know where you live?"
"I drew a map via Publisher and inserted it in the card."
"Maybe they're working and too busy?"
"I wrote on the card, 'Busy parents are welcome to send their nannies."
"This Dinnie has thought of everything.
My next plan of attack folks...well Career Day is coming up and Taufik is dressing up as a Firefigher yet again. Whichever parents turn up they will find themselves the target of my dripping charm(if I am capable of such a thing) and moi will attempt to divest them off their phone numbers and other contact details, then this mommy is rolling up her sleeves and getting down to work.
Wish me luck folks!
Nina Bobo the Bulldozer
p.s. Why am I still having this niggling feeling that this whole venture will be a total failure?
The whole day has passed by and not a single soul has called me. But this little misadventure has yet to end, still five days to go then posters would be removed from all the apartment blocks. So I am not disheartened yet.
Last week though, I sent out invitations to be inserted in the contact book of Taufik's classmates. Being the eager beaver that I am, I had painstakingly designed a "Fun in the Sun" invite on Publisher...asking all and sundry to join Taufik for some fun in the sun. Taufik loves his classmates, and has been begging me to invite his friends to our pool for a swim.
But I was full of trepidation, cause in my gut I suspect parents either would not have the time nor the inclination to make so much effort. They're mostly Thais and their children have ample social interaction with their Thai family and friends. Why would they go out on a limb to befriend a Farang (a term for both 'foreigners' and 'guava' - is it a foreign exotic fruit?- is that so Ned?) and endure the embarassment of stumbling through their halting English?
No response came through the contact book. Teacher Raihana was disappointed for Taufik and I. Imagine that? Four moms called, one called tentatively to ask what it was all about. I think I frightened the bejesus out of her with my throaty Rod Stewart voice (was suffering from a major sore throat). Friday came and no one turned up...except for my back up of good friends and their children. I had Plan B all ready in case of such a failure.
I went up to T's school teacher to ask her why such a dismal (actually non-existent) showing. He he he. She explained how she rarely got replies to the forms and letters she sends out. How many of them do not understand English. How far my place is. Oh God...my son is doomed to never have school friends over to his house. Oh dear. My parting words to Taufik's teacher, "This is not the last they've heard of me. I am not giving up."
I called up all the four moms and gently probed them on how I could lure them and their kids over.
I am not giving up folks. In fact I take this as a personal challenge.
While the kids were playing at the pool, my other friends said to me,
"Maybe they dont know where you live?"
"I drew a map via Publisher and inserted it in the card."
"Maybe they're working and too busy?"
"I wrote on the card, 'Busy parents are welcome to send their nannies."
"This Dinnie has thought of everything.
My next plan of attack folks...well Career Day is coming up and Taufik is dressing up as a Firefigher yet again. Whichever parents turn up they will find themselves the target of my dripping charm(if I am capable of such a thing) and moi will attempt to divest them off their phone numbers and other contact details, then this mommy is rolling up her sleeves and getting down to work.
Wish me luck folks!
Nina Bobo the Bulldozer
p.s. Why am I still having this niggling feeling that this whole venture will be a total failure?
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Reading Resources for Parents
Quickly, I will share with you some really lovely sites that will support your child's love of reading.
1. BBC's CBeebies website has an online book group, story circle for under sixes with lots of ideas for how to enjoy your reading.
Some of the cute stories that I think are simply wonderful are,
1. BBC's CBeebies website has an online book group, story circle for under sixes with lots of ideas for how to enjoy your reading.
Some of the cute stories that I think are simply wonderful are,
- Sir Doodles - a fun and interactive animated story that teaches your child about crossing the road safely, click on the road at the right time to help Sir Doodles cross.
- Debbie Duck in the Park - a wonderful animated story written by a 7 year old girl named Megan.
- Three Little Pigs - a very cute and snazzy version, animated and interactive.
2. StoryPlace Pre School Library - there is a voluminous amount of delicious little stories for the very young. Your child will be required to use the mouse to click and turn the page. The stories are short, sweet and funny. Interactive and animated. Singalong to their songs or help Bella Bear decide what to wear today. Some of Taufik's favourites are
Hope your kids will enjoy it as much as Taufik has!
Nina Bobo
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Facebook Frenzy: Revelation or Invasion
Am I the only one so fearful of Facebook...am i the only one who finds it to be a mega invasion of my private life...i mean the answer is simple Sha just dont be part of it...just deregister yourself n sit in d corner n c it explode...be d old grandma or dinasour who refuse to embrace one of d greatest technology ever...u c me writing dis is not to educate d Facebook lovers...i just want to understand y people love Facebook...ok wat im gona do here is put facebook into my perspective n c maybe if u guys can convince me to go towards d tech light i.e facebook:...or just maybe leave me in d darkside...Bare in mind this was written in my PMS mode n in my malasness to learn d "privacy application" to Facebook...
Pros: A good way to maintain relationship with frens..Cons: ok making frens are good ...but guys im even having trouble trying to maintain my relationship with my family...now i want to maintain frens...no offence...frens are good but they're too high maintanence...u know it gets too messy...u have to be polite, you have to keep in touch, u have to b nice...basically u just have to be all sweet n nice without d spice...n on Facebook wen your old frens look u up n want to be your frens...wat do u do...people tell me just dont accept they're requestla...how can u do that...i am mean ...but not that mean...whereas with family...thats different...i mean i can not talk to u guys for one year...then c u all by d roadside or raya or weddings n it all clicks...coz u guys r family...blood thicker than water man...those sensitive questions like " oh wer have u been?".."how come u never call me"..."n how come u never accept my request to be your fren on facebook?" does not bother u...
Pros: Can share pictures Cons: So that outsiders or oh ya frens can view them n comment to themselves or on facebook on how fat, thin, slutty or watever god knows comment they want to share with u....who bloody cares...apparently many do...come on guys wen u go thru your frens picture do u guys have nice things to say or does it sound more like.." God shes put on weight since i last saw her"..."oh damn, wasnt she d one dat went out with Mr A then cheated with Mr B and ended up with Mr C"..."ooooh oooh ohhh check out Mr C's profile"...
Pros: Can share important dates like birthdays n you get all dis wonderful wishes from people that u dont even know Cons: Omigod...BIG CONS...i dont want people to know my age...enuf dat i have to deal with d wrinkles...now i have to get well wishes for me to celebrate them...oh oh...i think it goes both ways if people remember yours they expect u to remember theirs....so remember dates comes with presents, n attending parties dat u really dont want to go too...n some even put in their kids birthday on them ..so people u have no excuse to not come to their kids bday parties n not bring presents...dont u even dare..."Didnt you get the reminder from Facebook of my kids bday!!!!!!" ...hah your trapped
Pros: You get to express your feelings n share it with your frens...Cons: How nice...NOT!!!!!...who cares whose poking,licking, head butting, kissing , peting, pinching who...do you people really care or want to know all this...oh n dont forget slap, spank, bite, sucker punch...please educate me n tell me how dis is fun...
u know to me Facebook is like that green eyed monster dat slowly comes in n gathers all d information then reduces u to database n next thing u know your going thru wat Will Smith went thru in "Enemy of d State" n Sandra Bullock in some computer hacker movie i cant remember...wer they use your information against u...they'll know everything your birthdays, your family, your feelings,your childrens birthdays, your photos, oh n dont forget your precious frens....they have your whole life in their hands...just by a click of a button..
so my advise to those who r evaders of tax, loans i.e jpa, cars, house, those who aspire to join FBI as undercovers or intend on involving themselves in any crime or politics in futre...do not join Facebook...but if your not part of d above list...i guess...let d LOVING go on!!!!
Lotsa love
Aisha
p.s i know dat one day i might have to swallow wat i just said above...but wat d heck it was fun writing it ...oh n dis was written before Faris told me that Yakmin just created a wholetthedinsout facebook that is supposedly secret society mafia PREBET (PRIVATE)...so gona join now...ooooh ...waitseminit (wait a minute)Faris talking to me.."WAT SAYANG?!!! i have to be invited"....guys will somebody invite me please ;) ...hehehe
Pros: A good way to maintain relationship with frens..Cons: ok making frens are good ...but guys im even having trouble trying to maintain my relationship with my family...now i want to maintain frens...no offence...frens are good but they're too high maintanence...u know it gets too messy...u have to be polite, you have to keep in touch, u have to b nice...basically u just have to be all sweet n nice without d spice...n on Facebook wen your old frens look u up n want to be your frens...wat do u do...people tell me just dont accept they're requestla...how can u do that...i am mean ...but not that mean...whereas with family...thats different...i mean i can not talk to u guys for one year...then c u all by d roadside or raya or weddings n it all clicks...coz u guys r family...blood thicker than water man...those sensitive questions like " oh wer have u been?".."how come u never call me"..."n how come u never accept my request to be your fren on facebook?" does not bother u...
Pros: Can share pictures Cons: So that outsiders or oh ya frens can view them n comment to themselves or on facebook on how fat, thin, slutty or watever god knows comment they want to share with u....who bloody cares...apparently many do...come on guys wen u go thru your frens picture do u guys have nice things to say or does it sound more like.." God shes put on weight since i last saw her"..."oh damn, wasnt she d one dat went out with Mr A then cheated with Mr B and ended up with Mr C"..."ooooh oooh ohhh check out Mr C's profile"...
Pros: Can share important dates like birthdays n you get all dis wonderful wishes from people that u dont even know Cons: Omigod...BIG CONS...i dont want people to know my age...enuf dat i have to deal with d wrinkles...now i have to get well wishes for me to celebrate them...oh oh...i think it goes both ways if people remember yours they expect u to remember theirs....so remember dates comes with presents, n attending parties dat u really dont want to go too...n some even put in their kids birthday on them ..so people u have no excuse to not come to their kids bday parties n not bring presents...dont u even dare..."Didnt you get the reminder from Facebook of my kids bday!!!!!!" ...hah your trapped
Pros: You get to express your feelings n share it with your frens...Cons: How nice...NOT!!!!!...who cares whose poking,licking, head butting, kissing , peting, pinching who...do you people really care or want to know all this...oh n dont forget slap, spank, bite, sucker punch...please educate me n tell me how dis is fun...
u know to me Facebook is like that green eyed monster dat slowly comes in n gathers all d information then reduces u to database n next thing u know your going thru wat Will Smith went thru in "Enemy of d State" n Sandra Bullock in some computer hacker movie i cant remember...wer they use your information against u...they'll know everything your birthdays, your family, your feelings,your childrens birthdays, your photos, oh n dont forget your precious frens....they have your whole life in their hands...just by a click of a button..
so my advise to those who r evaders of tax, loans i.e jpa, cars, house, those who aspire to join FBI as undercovers or intend on involving themselves in any crime or politics in futre...do not join Facebook...but if your not part of d above list...i guess...let d LOVING go on!!!!
Lotsa love
Aisha
p.s i know dat one day i might have to swallow wat i just said above...but wat d heck it was fun writing it ...oh n dis was written before Faris told me that Yakmin just created a wholetthedinsout facebook that is supposedly secret society mafia PREBET (PRIVATE)...so gona join now...ooooh ...waitseminit (wait a minute)Faris talking to me.."WAT SAYANG?!!! i have to be invited"....guys will somebody invite me please ;) ...hehehe
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Should we judge a book by its cover?
Deeeeiiii........facebook seem to storm into our lives , bulldozed its way and all of sudden our offline life becomes as u know it......semi-public...and for those who do not know how to set up the privacy options.....damn.....
As an application i find it extremely cluttered and not as intuitive as i would expect for an online apps with some serious deep menus to navigate to do the basic things.....but as most men typically do ...F**K the instructions books just plug it in and we'll figure it out.....
Personally i just dont get it.... i was a member for a long time since the inception...but never bothered to do anything....until that message from Nina....."Is this Faris as in M&M Dad?"....
All of sudden.....poke here, vampires n werewolves starts to appear.....and people whose names u cant even remember or even put a face to wants to be your frens....thank god my party days were during the time before digital camera was invented and all our my party people were too wasted to even bother taking pictures......
Let me know what you think folks.......i believe this application may change how people communicate and may break down the social structure of physical interaction.....especially once the Mobile Internet on the go reaches its optimum capacity to handle the traffic.....
As an application i find it extremely cluttered and not as intuitive as i would expect for an online apps with some serious deep menus to navigate to do the basic things.....but as most men typically do ...F**K the instructions books just plug it in and we'll figure it out.....
Personally i just dont get it.... i was a member for a long time since the inception...but never bothered to do anything....until that message from Nina....."Is this Faris as in M&M Dad?"....
All of sudden.....poke here, vampires n werewolves starts to appear.....and people whose names u cant even remember or even put a face to wants to be your frens....thank god my party days were during the time before digital camera was invented and all our my party people were too wasted to even bother taking pictures......
Let me know what you think folks.......i believe this application may change how people communicate and may break down the social structure of physical interaction.....especially once the Mobile Internet on the go reaches its optimum capacity to handle the traffic.....
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
My uncle, The author - Part 2
Okay guys! Its out!
Once its done, i will also post the 3-minuter. Right now all i have is Zahirs 90 sec cut which feels a little bit jumpy.
Also, would like to ask all the dinnies here a HUGE favour. Im in the midst of finishing my 20 minute short movie script (finally after 3 years of sitting on it) and i would like to shoot it sometime in december. And, i NEED MONEY. With a bit of a squeeze, i will need an amount up to RM 10,000. But this will just make my movie, it wont make it a NICE movie. For a nice movie i need 20K lah, but im probably pushing my luck here. I know my script is very the conraversial, but it is VERY close to my heart. If you guys want to support me, please let me know.
In the meantime, enjoy the Berita Harian Commercial starring our dear uncle, Pak Su Men..
To view the TV Commercial, please proceed to this link - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxW2aIqg9aw
Once its done, i will also post the 3-minuter. Right now all i have is Zahirs 90 sec cut which feels a little bit jumpy.
Also, would like to ask all the dinnies here a HUGE favour. Im in the midst of finishing my 20 minute short movie script (finally after 3 years of sitting on it) and i would like to shoot it sometime in december. And, i NEED MONEY. With a bit of a squeeze, i will need an amount up to RM 10,000. But this will just make my movie, it wont make it a NICE movie. For a nice movie i need 20K lah, but im probably pushing my luck here. I know my script is very the conraversial, but it is VERY close to my heart. If you guys want to support me, please let me know.
In the meantime, enjoy the Berita Harian Commercial starring our dear uncle, Pak Su Men..
To view the TV Commercial, please proceed to this link - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxW2aIqg9aw
AIDILFITRI~
Selamat hari raya I wish to everyone.
Kak Aisya, here are some pictures of your adorable sons. They are so sweet and so baik.. *smiLe
Have you guys seen the berita harian commercial lately? It features Ail and Paksu Men in it. It’s quite touching, u know. Better watch it 4 yourselves. =)
Have you guys seen the berita harian commercial lately? It features Ail and Paksu Men in it. It’s quite touching, u know. Better watch it 4 yourselves. =)
Till then, maaf zahir dan batin, ya!
Pak Su Men, Ail and Usamah
(L-R) Usamah, Malik, Mikael, Asif and Nada
Malik looks so content in the arms of Usamah =)
aLia and me
Saturday, October 20, 2007
text me your prayers
Text me your prayers - I really need your assurances and love.
My mobile number is +447778656122.
Love
Julia
My mobile number is +447778656122.
Love
Julia
Bad news in the Lyttle family
Hi all,
This is to inform you that my mother-in-law has passed away peacefully today between 9pm yesterday and 12 this morning. She was 74 years old and I feel to young to be taken away from us. Now Jasmine has lost 2 grandmothers and my father is the only living grandfather for her. It's tragic but I knew somehow something's up when she gave us a call out of the blue to our home in Lisburn. She never does that before - always calling her home whenever no one's around to pick the phone up. There's so many things to do now. People to call. She will not be cremated but instead to be buried on a family plot. Stephen is being brave about it but I think it's all show. He will know the full force of it in the morning over a cup of coffee. I feel all for him. I needed to be strong for him. Looking at Jasmine, she will not know what's happening but I think she knew something's up. She has been having sleepless nights for the past 2-3 weeks and you know how children can pick these things up without the adults been unaware of it.
One good thing was she died peacefully in her sleep. Much the same as when my own mother passed away 16 years ago.... more or less the same times. How ironic is that? She has been good the past couple of days and I think most people would tell me that whenever somebody is in a really good mood when they do not always been - they know the end is near. I just wish I had something to tell her. It's ironic that when she gave us a call she told me that she will always love me and Jasmine and Stephen. Why did I not pick her on these senses - it's a mystery to me?
I need your prayers right now guys.... I gotta go... I'm going to cry again now.... for the loss and for the pain of losing 2 mothers. One that I missed so much 16 years ago. I haven't thought about her but realising it now I didn't get the chance to say that I love her.... and the same with my mother-in-law.
Alhamdullilah!
This is to inform you that my mother-in-law has passed away peacefully today between 9pm yesterday and 12 this morning. She was 74 years old and I feel to young to be taken away from us. Now Jasmine has lost 2 grandmothers and my father is the only living grandfather for her. It's tragic but I knew somehow something's up when she gave us a call out of the blue to our home in Lisburn. She never does that before - always calling her home whenever no one's around to pick the phone up. There's so many things to do now. People to call. She will not be cremated but instead to be buried on a family plot. Stephen is being brave about it but I think it's all show. He will know the full force of it in the morning over a cup of coffee. I feel all for him. I needed to be strong for him. Looking at Jasmine, she will not know what's happening but I think she knew something's up. She has been having sleepless nights for the past 2-3 weeks and you know how children can pick these things up without the adults been unaware of it.
One good thing was she died peacefully in her sleep. Much the same as when my own mother passed away 16 years ago.... more or less the same times. How ironic is that? She has been good the past couple of days and I think most people would tell me that whenever somebody is in a really good mood when they do not always been - they know the end is near. I just wish I had something to tell her. It's ironic that when she gave us a call she told me that she will always love me and Jasmine and Stephen. Why did I not pick her on these senses - it's a mystery to me?
I need your prayers right now guys.... I gotta go... I'm going to cry again now.... for the loss and for the pain of losing 2 mothers. One that I missed so much 16 years ago. I haven't thought about her but realising it now I didn't get the chance to say that I love her.... and the same with my mother-in-law.
Alhamdullilah!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Fallling in love with Inaaya.
Loving your child upon its arrival is a given. At least it is true for me.
I have sat in buses, on benches in parks, in restaurants and shopping malls watching people - adults and children alike, asking myself this question - what if that was my child, could I love him/her? Always I think to myself, I could.
When Inaaya was placed in my arms the first time, I loved her till tears came to my eyes. Grateful was the word etched in my heart again and again as I held her.
But when did I fall in love with her?
I think it was the day she lay on my chest and fell asleep while I was getting my hair washed at the saloon, and Taufik was lying on my lap trying to create a little space where he wouldnt push Inaaya off me. I looked at my daughter, she half opened her sleepy eyes just to make sure that it was still me she was lying on, then closed them again to resume with her nap.
Then later again that night, while lying on my chest, I was watching the TV with Kim, she half opened them again, looked at me for the longest time with such love and adoration that my heart surged with happiness.
To be loved by your child - this all consuming, needy love - it is breathtaking.
It is nice to have a baby again, especially when my son is so independent now that he finds Mommy half the time a nuisance that gets in his play way. He doesnt need me so much anymore. He screams, "Let me do it myself!" when I try to button up his shirt.
But it is also nice, when thinking that your son was enjoying a sleepover at your neighbour's place with his best friend, William, to find him at the doorstep in the middle of the night cause he was caught sobbing in the dark while in bed, telling the adult who found him, "I miss my Mommyyyyy sooo much!"
He gives me a white Jasmine flower he plucked on the walk back home and tells me to smell it and wear it cause it makes me beautiful.
Oh to be loved by your child, let me count the ways...
I have sat in buses, on benches in parks, in restaurants and shopping malls watching people - adults and children alike, asking myself this question - what if that was my child, could I love him/her? Always I think to myself, I could.
When Inaaya was placed in my arms the first time, I loved her till tears came to my eyes. Grateful was the word etched in my heart again and again as I held her.
But when did I fall in love with her?
I think it was the day she lay on my chest and fell asleep while I was getting my hair washed at the saloon, and Taufik was lying on my lap trying to create a little space where he wouldnt push Inaaya off me. I looked at my daughter, she half opened her sleepy eyes just to make sure that it was still me she was lying on, then closed them again to resume with her nap.
Then later again that night, while lying on my chest, I was watching the TV with Kim, she half opened them again, looked at me for the longest time with such love and adoration that my heart surged with happiness.
To be loved by your child - this all consuming, needy love - it is breathtaking.
It is nice to have a baby again, especially when my son is so independent now that he finds Mommy half the time a nuisance that gets in his play way. He doesnt need me so much anymore. He screams, "Let me do it myself!" when I try to button up his shirt.
But it is also nice, when thinking that your son was enjoying a sleepover at your neighbour's place with his best friend, William, to find him at the doorstep in the middle of the night cause he was caught sobbing in the dark while in bed, telling the adult who found him, "I miss my Mommyyyyy sooo much!"
He gives me a white Jasmine flower he plucked on the walk back home and tells me to smell it and wear it cause it makes me beautiful.
Oh to be loved by your child, let me count the ways...
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Ketam ala Mak Teh..
Heya cuzzies.. We just had an awesome buka puasa over at Tia and Akir's tonight and my mum made her delicious ketam (YUMS!). Ofcourse, when it was being cooked, i took that as an opportunity for a posting here at Who Let The Dins Out?!. My contribution to dapur dinnie. :)
I'm gonna try to give you the recipe as close to what my mum explained to me ok. Bare with me ya coz her measurements (i'm sure is the same for all our mothers!) is always secukup rasa.
To feed 8..
2 red chillies
5 bird eye chillies (cili padi)
some fresh kunyit (about half a thumb) - my thumb!
1 small red onion
- blend together with a little santan
throw the mixture into a wok, adding the rest of the santan (about 1 kelapa)
also add 2 serai stalks in the mixture..
Cook for about a minute..
and throw in the kacang buncis and ketam.. oh yeah, add in salt (to taste) and cook until the ketam turns red. That should do it.
sounds pretty easy innit. lemme know how you guys go when you try ok!
Good Luck!
The ketam was so good, Timmy (eventhough allergic) ate about 4 crabs! - ofcourse with the help of antihistamine.
Love, Yakmin (so kenyang now!!)
I'm gonna try to give you the recipe as close to what my mum explained to me ok. Bare with me ya coz her measurements (i'm sure is the same for all our mothers!) is always secukup rasa.
To feed 8..
2 red chillies
5 bird eye chillies (cili padi)
some fresh kunyit (about half a thumb) - my thumb!
1 small red onion
- blend together with a little santan
throw the mixture into a wok, adding the rest of the santan (about 1 kelapa)
also add 2 serai stalks in the mixture..
Cook for about a minute..
and throw in the kacang buncis and ketam.. oh yeah, add in salt (to taste) and cook until the ketam turns red. That should do it.
sounds pretty easy innit. lemme know how you guys go when you try ok!
Good Luck!
The ketam was so good, Timmy (eventhough allergic) ate about 4 crabs! - ofcourse with the help of antihistamine.
Love, Yakmin (so kenyang now!!)
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Calling Julia!!!
Julia,
You remember your friend Nita? Kak Nita? I recall that she was unable to have children. I would like to touch base with her again, are you still in contact with her? If you are, please...no pretty please...send me her email address.
Love ya!
Nina Bobo Chins
You remember your friend Nita? Kak Nita? I recall that she was unable to have children. I would like to touch base with her again, are you still in contact with her? If you are, please...no pretty please...send me her email address.
Love ya!
Nina Bobo Chins
Brilliant Idea for Storytelling Parents
Okay, I credit Taufik's eloquence when compared to his peers (his teacher's words, not mine) due to three things. They are:
1. We chat all the time (since day 1)
2. We read twice or three times daily
3. We do storytelling in the car twice daily
So the thing is that I am sick and tired of story telling. Day after day, "A new story please, Mommy." but I also cringe when he says, "Can you tell me that story again?"
Then today I did it, I did a brilliant thing. I compiled 5 of his latest favourite books, then I recorded my voice reading them out loud on the computer, I burned them on the CD and VOILA, me doing story telling! And it can be put on again and again and again.
I've used storytelling as an effective way to introduce him to stories of the prophet. So far he knows the story of Nabi Adam, Nabi Nuh and Nabi Musa. I've typed out my version (based on the Quran) with a little embellishment and plus I recorded my voice telling it just the way I do when we're in the car. It is his very favourite story. So there - now I can rest for a bit.
I've got my Nabi Musa version in case you might be interested on my "Nina Bobo Writes" blog. But I aint sharing it yet, I am embarrassed. Will share it after more criticisms from Taufik, Hubby, Mom and Dayah. Or maybe I will never share it.
But if I do, I would send you my narration with expressions and all when I have the guts to do so. I am a FOOL.
The thing is that, I can hear this hissing noise everytime I say something into the mike and record my voice. What can I do to get rid of that background noise? Anyone with ideas? What program can I use to add music and other sounds to make my story more interesting?
It would be great if I could have the sound of the river, as Nabi Musa's mom floats Nabi Musa in his basket down the river. Oooh I am so excited!
Please help by suggesting me the right program/software for my storytelling venture.
Love,
Nina Bobs
1. We chat all the time (since day 1)
2. We read twice or three times daily
3. We do storytelling in the car twice daily
So the thing is that I am sick and tired of story telling. Day after day, "A new story please, Mommy." but I also cringe when he says, "Can you tell me that story again?"
Then today I did it, I did a brilliant thing. I compiled 5 of his latest favourite books, then I recorded my voice reading them out loud on the computer, I burned them on the CD and VOILA, me doing story telling! And it can be put on again and again and again.
I've used storytelling as an effective way to introduce him to stories of the prophet. So far he knows the story of Nabi Adam, Nabi Nuh and Nabi Musa. I've typed out my version (based on the Quran) with a little embellishment and plus I recorded my voice telling it just the way I do when we're in the car. It is his very favourite story. So there - now I can rest for a bit.
I've got my Nabi Musa version in case you might be interested on my "Nina Bobo Writes" blog. But I aint sharing it yet, I am embarrassed. Will share it after more criticisms from Taufik, Hubby, Mom and Dayah. Or maybe I will never share it.
But if I do, I would send you my narration with expressions and all when I have the guts to do so. I am a FOOL.
The thing is that, I can hear this hissing noise everytime I say something into the mike and record my voice. What can I do to get rid of that background noise? Anyone with ideas? What program can I use to add music and other sounds to make my story more interesting?
It would be great if I could have the sound of the river, as Nabi Musa's mom floats Nabi Musa in his basket down the river. Oooh I am so excited!
Please help by suggesting me the right program/software for my storytelling venture.
Love,
Nina Bobs
Sunday, September 30, 2007
MOTH....er
Welcome to the new Man of the House.......a term i encountered during my typical toilet reading of women mag's....these magazines thrives on insecurity of women...no doubt about that...and sells on them to the max.....all those glossy magazines filled with "How to ......", Latest fashion, Health, Cosmetics...n the ever popular latest news on celebrity......are you the type that actually buys them or try to read them for free at any opportunity ....
Anyway back to MOTH.....this raya we welcome 2 newbies ...Kimi n Emery.....brace yourself boys........ raya is big n fun in the family......we tried taking picture of the whole family in 2005 raya at MakDah's hse...and it didnt fit your typical view screen of chepo cameras.......only wide-screen could do the job...... and this year with the new additions of little ones bet u 're gonna need fish eye lenses to fit everyone in .....
When the clan gets together you could observe the pockets of conversation...gossips going on around you........just try to blend with the furniture n observe the on-goings......when you're in home ground you could always be busy with something....but when u're in visiting teritory ....worry not your wives will definitely leave u for the mob of curious aunties n cousins with incoming questions about you......homing in like precision guided bombs.
Its always filled with laughter, love, joy n happiness n the occasional sadness.....this year i hope that it will be better than ever...n cant wait to dig in into the local cuisine on raya day.....
"Tiada kata seindah zikir, tiada hari seindah idulfitri. Untuk itu ijinkan kedua tangan bersimpuh maaf untuk lisan yang tak terjaga, janji yang terabai, hati yang berprasangka & semua sikap yang pernah menyakitkan. Mohon Maaf Lahir dan Batin. Selamat menunaikan ibadah puasa and Selamat Meyambut Idul Fitri yang mulia....." - Faris , Aisha, Mikael and Malik
Anyway back to MOTH.....this raya we welcome 2 newbies ...Kimi n Emery.....brace yourself boys........ raya is big n fun in the family......we tried taking picture of the whole family in 2005 raya at MakDah's hse...and it didnt fit your typical view screen of chepo cameras.......only wide-screen could do the job...... and this year with the new additions of little ones bet u 're gonna need fish eye lenses to fit everyone in .....
When the clan gets together you could observe the pockets of conversation...gossips going on around you........just try to blend with the furniture n observe the on-goings......when you're in home ground you could always be busy with something....but when u're in visiting teritory ....worry not your wives will definitely leave u for the mob of curious aunties n cousins with incoming questions about you......homing in like precision guided bombs.
Its always filled with laughter, love, joy n happiness n the occasional sadness.....this year i hope that it will be better than ever...n cant wait to dig in into the local cuisine on raya day.....
"Tiada kata seindah zikir, tiada hari seindah idulfitri. Untuk itu ijinkan kedua tangan bersimpuh maaf untuk lisan yang tak terjaga, janji yang terabai, hati yang berprasangka & semua sikap yang pernah menyakitkan. Mohon Maaf Lahir dan Batin. Selamat menunaikan ibadah puasa and Selamat Meyambut Idul Fitri yang mulia....." - Faris , Aisha, Mikael and Malik
Friday, September 28, 2007
Mr. Martin and Mommy
I remember thinking to myself when I overheard how my friend's young son was afraid of going out after dark because the mother told him the typical lie, "crocodiles are out after dark, William", I swore I would never resort to such mothering tactics.
Never challenge fate it seems.
I found myself at my tethers end some time ago, when Taufik refused to keep the noise level down. How is it possible that one child can cause such a racket? It was night time already, and I was tired of putting him in the corner, he simply could not control his need for noise making. And it was , on that particular night, at a high.
I created Mr. Martin, based on my reclusive French neighbour at the top floor, who does look as if he consumes grumpy frogs for supper nightly. He never smiles nor says hello, though the occasional croak does crawl out of that Frenchified throat when Taufik blurts out a joyful "Hello!" at him.
I told Taufik that Mr. Martin had filed in a complaint at the terrible noise Taufik made nightly. As it interrupted his beauty sleep. And that Mr. Martin had made an appearance the other night to meet with the noisemaker himself. Slightly frightened but yet undaunted, I realised I had to flesh out this Mr. Martin character for Taufik even more. I made a call from my land line to my mobile phone, whereupon my husband found me profusely apologizing to Mr. Martin in front of a horrified Taufik for the terrible shouting that had been overheard.
The trick worked, both on him and on myself. For now, occasionally when I raise my voice, my son says "Shhhh Mr. Martin is trying to sleep Mommy." "Do you want him to come down? You have to say sorry to him." he tells me to my chagrin.
A few days back, I was sitting down with Taufik teaching him how to read, "p-a-t, c-a-t, h-a-t" when I lost my temper because my son wanted to draw sssss on the whiteboard. Taufik jumped onto his feet and said to me loudly and clearly, in case I should be mistaken that, "I am not afraid of Allah mommy! I am afraid of you (pause) and Mr. Martin."
He he he he
Cheeky little bugger.
Love,
Nina Bobo
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Shafina's Address
Guys, can someone make sure Shafina is invited pls? She is asking again. Her add is shafina_akbar@yahoo.com
Thanks
Tia
Thanks
Tia
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Reunion
Thought i'd put some pictures of us here to immortalized it in d blog...itll be nice to look back at it later
Oh we definitely have to do this again...
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Taufik learning to read and write
It's that time in the life of one's young where they are beginning to venture into the world of reading and writing. My short brush with the British curriculum exposed me to the world of Jolly Phonics which is an absolutely fun and brilliant way of learning how to read. I've watched fascinatedly my good friend's daughter, Mahnoor, develope a love for learning when before she resented it very much.
And so I have bought myself Jolly Phonics and have begun exposing Taufik that 's' is 'ssssss' for snake. I find myself singing and humming their very catchy songs, like "The snake is in the grass, the snake is in the grass, ssss sssss, the snake is in the grass (to the tune of "The Farmer is in the Dell".)
The thing is though, the programme is just so darned expensive that I only bought the needful. I needed though to teach Taufik to learn to write and that comes from sheer practice, practice, practise.
And that's how I stumbled into a treasure trove of free and very educational downloads. To start off his writing journey I downloaded Donna Young's total handwriting weekly programme. To date, I have enough activity to keep Taufik busy for the month, plus learning his Ikra and a little bit of Maths, plus Arts and Crafts.
It is so difficult to find a really good site, that provides you with quality educational stuff, so I am sharing this link with you. Here is a good place for you to start your child's reading and writing adventure.
Donna Young's "YoungMinds Penmanship Programme" - for practise writing papers for ages 3-6 years old.
To start off right at the beginning of her home page, here is the link - "Donna Young.org Printables and Resources for Homeschooling and Classrooms".
I strongly advise that you explore her website to make full use of this educational site.
Good luck!
Nina Bobo
And so I have bought myself Jolly Phonics and have begun exposing Taufik that 's' is 'ssssss' for snake. I find myself singing and humming their very catchy songs, like "The snake is in the grass, the snake is in the grass, ssss sssss, the snake is in the grass (to the tune of "The Farmer is in the Dell".)
The thing is though, the programme is just so darned expensive that I only bought the needful. I needed though to teach Taufik to learn to write and that comes from sheer practice, practice, practise.
And that's how I stumbled into a treasure trove of free and very educational downloads. To start off his writing journey I downloaded Donna Young's total handwriting weekly programme. To date, I have enough activity to keep Taufik busy for the month, plus learning his Ikra and a little bit of Maths, plus Arts and Crafts.
It is so difficult to find a really good site, that provides you with quality educational stuff, so I am sharing this link with you. Here is a good place for you to start your child's reading and writing adventure.
Donna Young's "YoungMinds Penmanship Programme" - for practise writing papers for ages 3-6 years old.
To start off right at the beginning of her home page, here is the link - "Donna Young.org Printables and Resources for Homeschooling and Classrooms".
I strongly advise that you explore her website to make full use of this educational site.
Good luck!
Nina Bobo
Dapur Dinnie - Magnolia's Vanilla Cupcake
Results of my recent baking. Magnolia's Vanilla Cupcakes
Cupcakes:
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Icing:
Vanilla Buttercream, recipe follows
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Line 2 (1/2 cup-12 capacity) muffin tins with cupcake papers.
In a small bowl, combine the flours. Set aside.
In a large bowl, on the medium speed of an electric mixer, cream the butter until smooth. Add the sugar gradually and beat until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the dry ingredients in 3 parts, alternating with the milk and vanilla. With each addition, beat until the ingredients are incorporated but do not over beat. Using a rubber spatula, scrape down the batter in the bowl to make sure the ingredients are well blended. Carefully spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about 3/4 full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center of the cupcake comes out clean.
Cool the cupcakes in tins for 15 minutes. Remove from the tins and cool completely on a wire rack before icing.
Vanilla Buttercream:
The vanilla buttercream we use at the bakery is technically not a buttercream but actually an old-fashioned confectioners' sugar and butter frosting. Be sure to beat the icing for the amount of time called for in the recipe to achieve the desired creamy texture.
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
6 to 8 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Place the butter in a large mixing bowl. Add 4 cups of the sugar and then the milk and vanilla. On the medium speed of an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Gradually add the remaining sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition (about 2 minutes), until the icing is thick enough to be of good spreading consistency. You may not need to add all of the sugar. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and mix thoroughly. (Use and store the icing at room temperature because icing will set if chilled.) Icing can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Yield: enough for 2 dozen cupcakes or 1 (9-inch) layer cake
Cupcakes:
1 1/2 cups self-rising flour
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Icing:
Vanilla Buttercream, recipe follows
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Line 2 (1/2 cup-12 capacity) muffin tins with cupcake papers.
In a small bowl, combine the flours. Set aside.
In a large bowl, on the medium speed of an electric mixer, cream the butter until smooth. Add the sugar gradually and beat until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the dry ingredients in 3 parts, alternating with the milk and vanilla. With each addition, beat until the ingredients are incorporated but do not over beat. Using a rubber spatula, scrape down the batter in the bowl to make sure the ingredients are well blended. Carefully spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about 3/4 full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted into the center of the cupcake comes out clean.
Cool the cupcakes in tins for 15 minutes. Remove from the tins and cool completely on a wire rack before icing.
Vanilla Buttercream:
The vanilla buttercream we use at the bakery is technically not a buttercream but actually an old-fashioned confectioners' sugar and butter frosting. Be sure to beat the icing for the amount of time called for in the recipe to achieve the desired creamy texture.
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
6 to 8 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Place the butter in a large mixing bowl. Add 4 cups of the sugar and then the milk and vanilla. On the medium speed of an electric mixer, beat until smooth and creamy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Gradually add the remaining sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition (about 2 minutes), until the icing is thick enough to be of good spreading consistency. You may not need to add all of the sugar. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring and mix thoroughly. (Use and store the icing at room temperature because icing will set if chilled.) Icing can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Yield: enough for 2 dozen cupcakes or 1 (9-inch) layer cake
Comments:
This made me, unusually, the popular mom at school when we had a do for the kids at Tauf's nursery. The cupcake is oh so very vanilla-ish and the icing is sublime. Not too buttery, not too icing-ish. Kim loved it, so did Hidayah, the hard to impress British teachers found it scrumptious. I got it off the net - Food Network - and thought I'd share it with you. Handy for mom's who need to do the occasional bake off for the bake sale at school. And we do have a lot of moms here. Nina Bobo. p.s. You must see this incredible cupcake lover's blog. She is just an ordinary lady who enjoys baking cupcakes. She conjures an endless array of creative cupcakes and they look gorgeous. Not to be missed, plus her recipes are very good. Here is the link,"Cupcake Bakeshop" by Chockylit @ http://cupcakeblog.com
This made me, unusually, the popular mom at school when we had a do for the kids at Tauf's nursery. The cupcake is oh so very vanilla-ish and the icing is sublime. Not too buttery, not too icing-ish. Kim loved it, so did Hidayah, the hard to impress British teachers found it scrumptious. I got it off the net - Food Network - and thought I'd share it with you. Handy for mom's who need to do the occasional bake off for the bake sale at school. And we do have a lot of moms here. Nina Bobo. p.s. You must see this incredible cupcake lover's blog. She is just an ordinary lady who enjoys baking cupcakes. She conjures an endless array of creative cupcakes and they look gorgeous. Not to be missed, plus her recipes are very good. Here is the link,"Cupcake Bakeshop" by Chockylit @ http://cupcakeblog.com
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Pak Su Men, the author..
My Uncle the author.
Pak Su Men, will be star in my next NST commercial directed by our friend, Mr. Zahir Omar. He will play an elderly BLIND MAN named AJIS that has become a succesful writer in this spot for Berita Harian. Will post the commercial once its done.
Yours truly will play middle aged AJIS (Pak su men at a younger age). So brace yourselves guys. Never before has TWO DINNIES been in ONE commercial. And playing one character too.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Papas more fun!!!
I don't know about you guys but my boys seem to love their Papa more then their mom...i guess i dont blame them...he is so much more fun to be with than nagging mak... how come i end up being d bad cop..."Go mandi!"..."Finish your food"..."Dont do that".."Dont do this"...
But when their with their Papa...as soon as he comes back from work...they'll be running after him...well Mikael will be running n Malik will be crawling..then its fun n games all d way till bedtime...laughter...jumping..wrestling...n they would laugh n laugh n laugh...like their saying "Thank God Papas home...now we can finally have fun"...hehe...i should try to loosen up..
Oh n Faris alhamdulillah is so wonderful with d boys...that my jealousy for the boys' attention will just melt away...i love observing my three musketeers, Faris, Mikael n Malik...its like watching a great movie...when they're together ..their in their own world...n its amazing...makes u think bad cop pun bad copla...
Thursday, September 20, 2007
An Eye for An Eye...
M@#&^$Fu#@$%........i'm sad n angry....NurinJazlin (http://www.nurinjazlin.blogspot.com/).....if DNA confirms that it was her....then another innocent child have been sexually molested n murdered in a gruesome manner.........whats happening in Malaysia.....are we gonna be seeing pictures of missing children on the back of milk cartons soon........I've been following the case from here...regularly scouring the internet to get update ever since she went missing in Aug 20th...we currently have around 17 children missing since january equivalent to 2 missing child a month in Malaysia
Alfatihah to her soul....
As parents i cringe with fear of the tot that something like this could easily happen to me....shit man....
People please ..please please ... be aware of your children whereabouts........always have them within reach and within field of vision..........it only takes a momentary lapse of concentration and your life as you know it could change forever........
I will mobilise all available resources to haunt n kill whoever is responsible should this ever happen to me....and gladly surrender after i'm done with the job.....dont even try to convince me otherwise......
Sorry if i suddenly change the tone of the blog...but cant help it .. just too frustrated with the whole thing......
Alfatihah to her soul....
As parents i cringe with fear of the tot that something like this could easily happen to me....shit man....
People please ..please please ... be aware of your children whereabouts........always have them within reach and within field of vision..........it only takes a momentary lapse of concentration and your life as you know it could change forever........
I will mobilise all available resources to haunt n kill whoever is responsible should this ever happen to me....and gladly surrender after i'm done with the job.....dont even try to convince me otherwise......
Sorry if i suddenly change the tone of the blog...but cant help it .. just too frustrated with the whole thing......
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Hidayah, Alia and Dina at the Wedding
I thought these were nice pictures of faces rarely seen on the blog. Here is a lovely photo of my sister, a natural beauty. And then the one below it, of Alia and Dina smiling like two Cheshire Cats!
Love,
Nina Bobo
Love,
Nina Bobo
Children at Noreen & Emeri Wedding
I wanted so much for this picture to do justice to Issara's adorableness. But it turned out blurry.
Yanti & Khaliff - a lovely mother and son picture.
Mikael and Hussein, what are they always laughing about?
Taufik with the current love of his life. I'm not so sure about Arissa though. Little Ms. Popular.I wish I had taken pictures of all the kids, alas, I was busy with attending to my children (what satisfaction it is to say 'children' instead of 'child') and so took what I could.
More pictures to comes.
Sibling Tenderness
When we brought Inaaya home, there was of course that moment of trepidation. How would Taufik react? But although almost everyone else was apprehensive I was only a little bit concerned.
The thing with adoption is that you never know when your child will be joining the family. There is none of the 9 months definite preparation period; instead one has to go by one’s own instinct. And the same applies to deciding when the right time would be to introduce the topic to Taufik of a sibling.
And so I did this, thinking that the thing about having faith is being hopeful and optimistic Allah (SWT) will answer my prayers. With this belief, I first began telling Taufik how nice it would be to have a little baby. “Would you like to have the baby on your lap?”, “What would you like to show the baby? Some of your toys? Baby girl or baby boy? Now let’s dua to Allah (SWT) for a little baby for us, shall we?” And so it went, this little chats on road trips to the supermarket, after bedtime stories, morning dressing up, the discussion of a new baby would be brought up. He became rather excited about having a sibling, although he couldn’t quite decide if he wanted a girl or a boy. Throughout, I would always emphasize that we would have a baby if Allah desires it so.
Everything went and has gone so smoothly thus far. The only glitch happened when before I left to pick Inaaya up, I told him that I was going to fetch his sister today. He said, “From Arissa’s Mommy’s tummy?”, “What?” I asked, rather nonplussed. “Arissa’s baby, are you going to get her, Mommy?” Oh my, all this while he was eyeing the baby in Ika’s ever expanding tummy. A little bit of tears, earnest explanations from Mommy, and he finally accepted that Auntie Ika’s baby will remain with Auntie Ika.
Aside from that little glitch, it has been a dream. The other night, as I was putting Taufik to sleep, he said to me, “Mommy, can I say good night to my sister?” I said, “Of course, sweetheart.” I watched from the corner of my eye, my little son bending tenderly down to his sister’s face, looking at her straight into the eyes and saying, “Good night Inaaya, I love you.” He stroked her head ever so softly and bounded boisterously back into my lap.
Since then, I have witnessed so many other moments of tenderness. He has been a tender big brother, so gentle and soft, so contrary to his hyperactive nature, his general speed being a constant 5 on a scale of 1-5. But when it comes to Inaaya everything slows down, his voice becomes a little bit tenderer. And when introducing people to the baby, it is dripping with gentle pride and possessiveness.
All I can say is, Alhamdulillah. I cannot ask for more than this.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Life on The Ring of Fire.......
Wed 12/09 18.03 HRS..........tat same feeling hit me again.......3rd floor of my office building....
water in my glass starts doing the yoyo..........speed dail 2 - sayang..........no answer....again n again..
then finally she answered....." we're on the way down...call u back!!!!!"....."all OK" i asked...a quick yes and she was gone......
Got out of my room.....saw some people running....."pak!!! Gempa ya....." ......ok ...mmm....better do my magrib.......after prayers went back to work ...need to finalise the presentation.....guess after going thru one in august...u kinda know ...or have the feeling if the building in going to go or not...
Rule No 1. Dont Panic , try to get out in open area away from building once the quake stops.......well where i'm at thats not gonna work ....buildings everywhere.....wonder if i have time to dodge falling buildings....
Aisha took the kids down 24 floors via the fire escape while the quake was still on....when i got back i asked her why she didnt take the lift..........(like what i did before....) duh ... kena bantai gile .......ceramah about its not safe to take the lift during emergency.....well i cant say much on that .....
After the first quake on wed...there have been more than...111 quakes ....read it the papers....by lunchtime thursday it was 36 and counting.....some u can feel some u dont..........
When i got back home...i could see how shaken she was......i tried my best to comfort her but kept getting my foot in the mouth disease .......keluar semua physics theory about earthquake and under what conditions building can collapse .....she just looked at me with her trade mark where r u going with this one.....r u trying to dig another hole or is the hole ur in getting deeper........in the end i just said ... dont worry..we'll be fine.....and we're moving to 30th floor in October........
water in my glass starts doing the yoyo..........speed dail 2 - sayang..........no answer....again n again..
then finally she answered....." we're on the way down...call u back!!!!!"....."all OK" i asked...a quick yes and she was gone......
Got out of my room.....saw some people running....."pak!!! Gempa ya....." ......ok ...mmm....better do my magrib.......after prayers went back to work ...need to finalise the presentation.....guess after going thru one in august...u kinda know ...or have the feeling if the building in going to go or not...
Rule No 1. Dont Panic , try to get out in open area away from building once the quake stops.......well where i'm at thats not gonna work ....buildings everywhere.....wonder if i have time to dodge falling buildings....
Aisha took the kids down 24 floors via the fire escape while the quake was still on....when i got back i asked her why she didnt take the lift..........(like what i did before....) duh ... kena bantai gile .......ceramah about its not safe to take the lift during emergency.....well i cant say much on that .....
After the first quake on wed...there have been more than...111 quakes ....read it the papers....by lunchtime thursday it was 36 and counting.....some u can feel some u dont..........
When i got back home...i could see how shaken she was......i tried my best to comfort her but kept getting my foot in the mouth disease .......keluar semua physics theory about earthquake and under what conditions building can collapse .....she just looked at me with her trade mark where r u going with this one.....r u trying to dig another hole or is the hole ur in getting deeper........in the end i just said ... dont worry..we'll be fine.....and we're moving to 30th floor in October........
Friday, September 14, 2007
Puasa !!!
Hi guys,
First of all, i would like to wish all cousins selamat berpuasa. Since its the puasa month and can't go out for lunch (or sleep), I'm sending my first message thru this blog. Its great to see all the Din's family together at Noreen's beautiful wedding. I guess the next family get together will be the Hari Raya celebration at Mak Chor's or Mak Dah's house (depending where Opah is going to be!!hehehe).
I dont wanna sleep!!. I think I'm off to do a bit of early raya shopping for the kids downstairs. My office is in Times Square so i get to go shopping almost every day!! how fun is that!! NOT! Looking and admiring stuffs aje and waiting till the end of the month to buy it!! hehehe..
Till then, take care all!
shikin
First of all, i would like to wish all cousins selamat berpuasa. Since its the puasa month and can't go out for lunch (or sleep), I'm sending my first message thru this blog. Its great to see all the Din's family together at Noreen's beautiful wedding. I guess the next family get together will be the Hari Raya celebration at Mak Chor's or Mak Dah's house (depending where Opah is going to be!!hehehe).
I dont wanna sleep!!. I think I'm off to do a bit of early raya shopping for the kids downstairs. My office is in Times Square so i get to go shopping almost every day!! how fun is that!! NOT! Looking and admiring stuffs aje and waiting till the end of the month to buy it!! hehehe..
Till then, take care all!
shikin
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Emeri's Invitation
Noreen,
I have reinvited Emeri to the blog, I hope that this new Dinnie member will have no problem joining in.
By the way y'all, notice that Shikin is now amongst us. Please give her a warm welcome.
Tia, did you ever get Ana's correct email address?
Shikin, do you have your sisters' email addresses? I believe Farah's one was farah.akbar@gmail.com. Am I right?
Love,
Nina Bobo
I have reinvited Emeri to the blog, I hope that this new Dinnie member will have no problem joining in.
By the way y'all, notice that Shikin is now amongst us. Please give her a warm welcome.
Tia, did you ever get Ana's correct email address?
Shikin, do you have your sisters' email addresses? I believe Farah's one was farah.akbar@gmail.com. Am I right?
Love,
Nina Bobo
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
In the throes of motherhood second time around
Firstly,
Noreen and Emeri, Yakmin and Timi, it was a pleasure to be there at your wedding. And yes I am going to get down to inviting Emeri in, I tried the night before but it was not successful, will try again soonest. Other admins might have already done so, but will check on it pronto.
The rest of the cousins, thank you so much for your love, support and joy sharing throughout my adoption 'ordeal'. An ordeal it was, with topics touching the emotional, ethical, legal (thank God we have lawyers in the family), and just motherhood generally.
Yanti, though it never happenned, you volunteering your part in the adoption of my second child, touched my heart deeply. Not a moments hesitation, and that truly surprised me. You never truly know the mettle of a person, until they rise to the occassion.
Ika, thank you for the lovely hand me downs, Inaaya is enjoying her dresses very much. I especially enjoy the purple dress and fruit of the loom jammies which has come in handy.
I have left Inaaya's Moses basket for the use of your newborn, and I so very hope that you will get it by the time you deliver. I have left a request that my mom pick it up from my step mom's place where it is patiently waiting.
Nana, how is the Hondie doing? Julia, you have a new bike enthusiast in the family, I introduced her to the lingo you used to refer to yours and Stephen's habit of taking a ride on the Yammie - do you still have the opportunity to enjoy this hobby?
Tia, has your trip ended yet. And thank you so much for your warm welcome to Inaaya.
On my part, the second time around is a refreshing reminder of how tiring motherhood can be. Inaaya is a little bit more unsettled than Taufik, she's got major gas issues, something I am sure she would not appreciate me mentioning when she reaches ladyhood.
Last Sunday, my greatest help, Hidayah, fell sick with food poisoning, Inaaya was having a particularly bad day and so it was left to Kim and I to hold up the home front. The house was left in shambles, well more shambolic than it normally was.
My dearest husband on that particular day was quite adamant about catching up on reading his current book, "The King Never Smiles (King Bhumibol Ayulyadej)". I might cheekily say, it was a day where "Father Never Smiles" he he he. Indeed reading on such a day was a futile mission, little did he know.
He had his finger marking the page of that massive book, while I asked him to help me with one chore to the other. It was to my amusement that he switched off the oven roasting the red peppers with massive book and finger in place, warmed up Taufik's milk in the same position, feed the cats with that persistent finger on the same page. Poor thing.
Then deciding to leave the book for a half an hour nap, he curled up beside me while I struggled to get Inaaya to latch on with my Lact Aid on. Yes I am trying to induce milk in my breast again, and by jove it is a test of my persistance. So there he was book, beside him, lying under the blanket trying to protect himself from the elements. Elements being our very boisterous 3 year old son, who is jumping on him like a trampoline. Half and hour of acrobatic acts passed with his father worn out and sleepless.
Kim, picked up that cursed book again, and tried to settle himself in the living room on the hatami mat for a lovely cosy read. Only to have Taufik do headstands in between his knees and using his head as a swivel, while he pretends to be an airplane propeller. I laughed madly and silently inside.
Finally, I said, why don't you tell Taufik off? He looked at me pissed as hell mind you, and said, "No point! He won't listen!" He rolled his eyes, pursed his lips, and stiffened up all around. My foolish husband, he tells the boy to stop but when he doesnt, does not follow with a consequence. I know what Kim wanted, he wanted me to be the bad cop as always, and enforce discipline on my child. Well this was one time that he was going to have to be a baddie.
I thought I'd give him that little parent tip after the day was over. When he is over that silliness of reading a book, when that finger slips from that page in surrender shall I put my husband out of his misery. In the meanwhile, I am saying to Inaaya, "Open your mouth darling, aaaaaahhhh...why on earth are you not latching on properly?" LOL
Nina Bobo as always
Noreen and Emeri, Yakmin and Timi, it was a pleasure to be there at your wedding. And yes I am going to get down to inviting Emeri in, I tried the night before but it was not successful, will try again soonest. Other admins might have already done so, but will check on it pronto.
The rest of the cousins, thank you so much for your love, support and joy sharing throughout my adoption 'ordeal'. An ordeal it was, with topics touching the emotional, ethical, legal (thank God we have lawyers in the family), and just motherhood generally.
Yanti, though it never happenned, you volunteering your part in the adoption of my second child, touched my heart deeply. Not a moments hesitation, and that truly surprised me. You never truly know the mettle of a person, until they rise to the occassion.
Ika, thank you for the lovely hand me downs, Inaaya is enjoying her dresses very much. I especially enjoy the purple dress and fruit of the loom jammies which has come in handy.
I have left Inaaya's Moses basket for the use of your newborn, and I so very hope that you will get it by the time you deliver. I have left a request that my mom pick it up from my step mom's place where it is patiently waiting.
Nana, how is the Hondie doing? Julia, you have a new bike enthusiast in the family, I introduced her to the lingo you used to refer to yours and Stephen's habit of taking a ride on the Yammie - do you still have the opportunity to enjoy this hobby?
Tia, has your trip ended yet. And thank you so much for your warm welcome to Inaaya.
On my part, the second time around is a refreshing reminder of how tiring motherhood can be. Inaaya is a little bit more unsettled than Taufik, she's got major gas issues, something I am sure she would not appreciate me mentioning when she reaches ladyhood.
Last Sunday, my greatest help, Hidayah, fell sick with food poisoning, Inaaya was having a particularly bad day and so it was left to Kim and I to hold up the home front. The house was left in shambles, well more shambolic than it normally was.
My dearest husband on that particular day was quite adamant about catching up on reading his current book, "The King Never Smiles (King Bhumibol Ayulyadej)". I might cheekily say, it was a day where "Father Never Smiles" he he he. Indeed reading on such a day was a futile mission, little did he know.
He had his finger marking the page of that massive book, while I asked him to help me with one chore to the other. It was to my amusement that he switched off the oven roasting the red peppers with massive book and finger in place, warmed up Taufik's milk in the same position, feed the cats with that persistent finger on the same page. Poor thing.
Then deciding to leave the book for a half an hour nap, he curled up beside me while I struggled to get Inaaya to latch on with my Lact Aid on. Yes I am trying to induce milk in my breast again, and by jove it is a test of my persistance. So there he was book, beside him, lying under the blanket trying to protect himself from the elements. Elements being our very boisterous 3 year old son, who is jumping on him like a trampoline. Half and hour of acrobatic acts passed with his father worn out and sleepless.
Kim, picked up that cursed book again, and tried to settle himself in the living room on the hatami mat for a lovely cosy read. Only to have Taufik do headstands in between his knees and using his head as a swivel, while he pretends to be an airplane propeller. I laughed madly and silently inside.
Finally, I said, why don't you tell Taufik off? He looked at me pissed as hell mind you, and said, "No point! He won't listen!" He rolled his eyes, pursed his lips, and stiffened up all around. My foolish husband, he tells the boy to stop but when he doesnt, does not follow with a consequence. I know what Kim wanted, he wanted me to be the bad cop as always, and enforce discipline on my child. Well this was one time that he was going to have to be a baddie.
I thought I'd give him that little parent tip after the day was over. When he is over that silliness of reading a book, when that finger slips from that page in surrender shall I put my husband out of his misery. In the meanwhile, I am saying to Inaaya, "Open your mouth darling, aaaaaahhhh...why on earth are you not latching on properly?" LOL
Nina Bobo as always
Monday, August 27, 2007
Footie for the Hottie!!
I went to watch my first football match yesterday. It was Saints v Stoke City and a bunch of us went to watch it.
And it was amazing.
I shall not bore you with details- just these pics.
Oh, the score was 3 - 2 and two of the group won GB 500 each! I should hv placed my bets along with them!
What a rush!!!
In case you were wondering..... NO, I have not converted to join the unforgiven,
I 
am KEEPING THE FAITH! :)
am KEEPING THE FAITH! :) But for there were moments, I was a HOOLIGAN!
Signing out from Novotel, Southampton.
Tia
Friday, August 24, 2007
Away from Home - Week One
My dearest family,
As I type this, I am feeling so sedih that I am away from my family. Have been here since Sunday night and I will be here, in the UK for another .... 2 weeks plus a couple of days. Sigh. NAK BALIK!!! NAK BALIK!!
Thank god for the internet and SKYPE. I was able to chat with Akir and Omar (on video call) a few times. Having said that, I am enjoying this course. Basically, it's a short course on Maritime Law. Not really short la, considering it's bloody 3 weeks and it's pretty intensive. About 40 delegates, from all over the world but all from the shipping/maritime world.
The University put up the delegates at a small hotel, in Southampton called Novotel. Okay la tak la small sangat. We were all taken to have dinner at the Southampton Port semalam- and I saw signboards for "Blue Funnel Cruises". Abah used to work for Blue Funnel, and Abah actually was in Southampton Uni for about a year, doing the theory part for his first class engineering certificate. So- according to mum, Abah, mum and of course, baby Tia were at the Uni flats. It's just so ironic that I end up working for a shipping company... I miss him so much la.
I have not recovered and I don't think I ever will. I see the sadness in Hana's eyes, Yakmin's eyes and Ail's eyes.... and sometimes, even while we are joking, laughing, I see a fleeting glimpse of it. Most of the time, it's there, in the air. I miss him so much more, here in Southampton,the center for maritime studies. I see him here/ I feel him here.
One thing mak said, that is so bitter-sweet, and she said this to me a few days after Abah passed away, she said "Tia..., Abah was very proud of you, you know that kan?"
I wish I could tell him... that I understand his facination with ships, and while I may not be on my knees, fixing greasy engines... I am doing my bit as well.
Signing out-
Tia
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Noreen & Emeri's Wedding
Here are some pictures that Hidayah and I managed to take at the wedding. Please dont expect anything remotely as well taken as the better photographers in the family.
Enjoy!
Love,
Nina Bobo
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