Hubby came back with a bouquet of flowers and a bar of chocolate. And then we had dinner at SOULed Out. Fantastic place....a very nice place to hang out with your loved ones or to have a girly chit chat. Staff were pleasant, food was nice and reasonably priced.
Then we bought DVDs and went home to watch it.
A very simple affair. Waiting for our trip to Phuket on Thursday!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Things...
My last post about Briq was like more than a week ago. Till now, Briq is not back. We have already decided that he has found a better place for himself. Dah redha... Whatever it is, we hope he is safe and comfortable and happy. Goodbye darling!
Yesterday was my birthday. I turned 37. As always, I am never sad to turn a year older as I am thankful that God has given me the strength, the good health and the happiness that I have now. But somehow, I am learning to stay positive. Negative thoughts always stop me from enjoying moment. Today I read somewhere and somehow I can relate to it. It comes from this small book MUTIARA KATA AL-QARNI.
Jangan bayangkan kebahagiaan yang lebih besar daripada apa yang anda rasakan saat ini, supaya anda tidak kehilangan apa yang anda miliki saat ini. Dan jangan tunggu-tunggu musibah yang akan datang, kerana jika demikian bererti anda ingin mempercepat datangnya kesusahan dan kesedihan.
I am more guilty of the second part than the first. My husband always told me I am not competitive enough which is not true actually. As a normal human being, I do want more than what I have right now but it's not as important as the second part about bad things that I always imagine to happen. When I was young, I always imagine bad things to happen during my happy times. And it did happen once when my dad passed away 2 weeks after I got married. Somehow that had an impact on me till now. Sometimes, I told my husband that I am scared what will happen to me if something happens to him. And the thought lingers that I am worried everytime he goes to work and come back home. I am always worried.... and I think it's about time for me to be positive and stop having such thoughts!
We are going for a trip tomorrow or rather later today. We are going to Phuket to celebrate my birthday and hubby needs a break too. He needs it cos he is still doing his work as I am typing this. *sigh*
It took me weeks to decide on which hotel to stay as I am paranoid about this and that. I read so many reviews till I can read no more. At last I made the decision, we booked and I am not going to think about it anymore till I reach Phuket tomorrow.
I have to stop these negative thoughts! Go!!
Yesterday was my birthday. I turned 37. As always, I am never sad to turn a year older as I am thankful that God has given me the strength, the good health and the happiness that I have now. But somehow, I am learning to stay positive. Negative thoughts always stop me from enjoying moment. Today I read somewhere and somehow I can relate to it. It comes from this small book MUTIARA KATA AL-QARNI.
Jangan bayangkan kebahagiaan yang lebih besar daripada apa yang anda rasakan saat ini, supaya anda tidak kehilangan apa yang anda miliki saat ini. Dan jangan tunggu-tunggu musibah yang akan datang, kerana jika demikian bererti anda ingin mempercepat datangnya kesusahan dan kesedihan.
I am more guilty of the second part than the first. My husband always told me I am not competitive enough which is not true actually. As a normal human being, I do want more than what I have right now but it's not as important as the second part about bad things that I always imagine to happen. When I was young, I always imagine bad things to happen during my happy times. And it did happen once when my dad passed away 2 weeks after I got married. Somehow that had an impact on me till now. Sometimes, I told my husband that I am scared what will happen to me if something happens to him. And the thought lingers that I am worried everytime he goes to work and come back home. I am always worried.... and I think it's about time for me to be positive and stop having such thoughts!
We are going for a trip tomorrow or rather later today. We are going to Phuket to celebrate my birthday and hubby needs a break too. He needs it cos he is still doing his work as I am typing this. *sigh*
It took me weeks to decide on which hotel to stay as I am paranoid about this and that. I read so many reviews till I can read no more. At last I made the decision, we booked and I am not going to think about it anymore till I reach Phuket tomorrow.
I have to stop these negative thoughts! Go!!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Please come home, Briq!
Yesterday night, right after we buried Wheee!! (the injured bird that I took care for 2 days and at last it died), hubby was hanging out at the porch drinking Milo and having a smoke. I was inside the house watching TV. Suddenly I heard hubby shouting something and a loud thud. I went out and saw a car stopped in front of the house and the driver went out to check something. And then hubby told him, "That is my cat!". I was still puzzled. Hubby mumbled something and he looked panic.
He asked me to get the keys to the gate and kept saying something which I didn't understand. At last, I managed to get it out from him. He said that Briq chased after another cat and dashed across the road. The other cat reached the other side of the road but Briq was in the middle of the road at that time. And at the same time, there was a black Viva and he refused to see what happened next. But then, he saw Briq fled off and he was gone! Briq was hit by the car and then he fled.
We looked around the estate a few times but no sign of Briq. I was still positive about it cos I told hubby, if he was injured, he won't be able to run away. But hubby was worried he might have some internal injuries and suffered somewhere. I thought about that but I still pin some hope that he is alright.
This morning, Briq was not at the door. He was not even within the vicinity of the house. My hope that he is alright is weakening. It's already 6pm now, nearly 24hrs after the incident, and he is still not home. I am beginning to lose hope. After talking to my hubby just now, I broke down and cried. He is one of the first cats that came to this house. And he is my hubby's favourite! Hubby is very very sad about it. Briq will be the one waiting for him outside the toilet when he is having his shower. Briq will be the one sleeping in between his legs at night. Briq will be the one to keep quiet once hubby comes out of the toilet or else he will keep on making noise till he comes out. Usually hubby will be the one to console me, but it seems it's my turn now.
Please God, let him be alright and please ask him to come back home. We are very worried about him.
We miss you, Briq!
He asked me to get the keys to the gate and kept saying something which I didn't understand. At last, I managed to get it out from him. He said that Briq chased after another cat and dashed across the road. The other cat reached the other side of the road but Briq was in the middle of the road at that time. And at the same time, there was a black Viva and he refused to see what happened next. But then, he saw Briq fled off and he was gone! Briq was hit by the car and then he fled.
We looked around the estate a few times but no sign of Briq. I was still positive about it cos I told hubby, if he was injured, he won't be able to run away. But hubby was worried he might have some internal injuries and suffered somewhere. I thought about that but I still pin some hope that he is alright.
This morning, Briq was not at the door. He was not even within the vicinity of the house. My hope that he is alright is weakening. It's already 6pm now, nearly 24hrs after the incident, and he is still not home. I am beginning to lose hope. After talking to my hubby just now, I broke down and cried. He is one of the first cats that came to this house. And he is my hubby's favourite! Hubby is very very sad about it. Briq will be the one waiting for him outside the toilet when he is having his shower. Briq will be the one sleeping in between his legs at night. Briq will be the one to keep quiet once hubby comes out of the toilet or else he will keep on making noise till he comes out. Usually hubby will be the one to console me, but it seems it's my turn now.
Please God, let him be alright and please ask him to come back home. We are very worried about him.
We miss you, Briq!
Monday, July 11, 2011
When Things Come CLEAN!
Yesterday, KL city centre came to a standstill when all roads leading to the city centre was blocked off. People were not allowed to go into the city centre unless they had an important event to attend to or some other good reasons. The reason being, there will be a demo by a group called BERSIH and it's opposition, PATRIOT. I had no idea about all these just that from reading all the twitters about the roadblocks and the major traffic jams, I found out about it.
As a foreigner, I tried to stay away from local politics as much as possible. Maklumlah, menumpang! I stayed away from these 'hot zones' so that I won't be caught for no reason. My brother called to ask how I am and I told him, where I stayed, things are very normal. No roadblocks or whatever. The odd thing was, the road was very clear. Quite unusual actually.
Usually, I am an outsider looking in when things like this happened in another country. But this time, I am in the country where the so-called turmoil happened. From my hometown, friends and families were worried about how we were here. They must have thought that we were caught in a large crowd and running about, trying to find a place to hide. Funny! Hehehehe!!
But as much as I think it's funny, I can't help but to think that the political scenes here are quite dramatic and unstable. This is my first time where I am in a country where such things happened. I can't help but to think ...."Is this where I want to settle down?" The answer is still very vague in front of us... very very vague. What I can see now is a black hole and only God knows where our next destination going to be.
Wherever it may be, I just pray for happiness and good health.
As a foreigner, I tried to stay away from local politics as much as possible. Maklumlah, menumpang! I stayed away from these 'hot zones' so that I won't be caught for no reason. My brother called to ask how I am and I told him, where I stayed, things are very normal. No roadblocks or whatever. The odd thing was, the road was very clear. Quite unusual actually.
Usually, I am an outsider looking in when things like this happened in another country. But this time, I am in the country where the so-called turmoil happened. From my hometown, friends and families were worried about how we were here. They must have thought that we were caught in a large crowd and running about, trying to find a place to hide. Funny! Hehehehe!!
But as much as I think it's funny, I can't help but to think that the political scenes here are quite dramatic and unstable. This is my first time where I am in a country where such things happened. I can't help but to think ...."Is this where I want to settle down?" The answer is still very vague in front of us... very very vague. What I can see now is a black hole and only God knows where our next destination going to be.
Wherever it may be, I just pray for happiness and good health.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Down South
Hubby received last minute news that he had to attend a seminar in JB this weekend. The event will take place on Friday and Saturday. Hubby wanted to decline at first but his boss told him to ask me first as she knows I would love to go back to Singapore.
Of course I said YES!!
So we drove down on yesterday night and checked-in at Puteri Pacific Hotel late midnight. The rest of hubby's colleagues, there's 3 of them, took the flight to JB.
Alright, the hotel first. For a hotel that comes under the name Pan Pacific hotel before, it was quite old and not impressive. When we checked-in, I asked whether there is wi-fi service and they said no. Only broadband cable. Oklaa... I have no choice as I have to submit my work this morning. When I asked for the rate, internet in the room cost RM57 for 24 hrs and if you were to do it in the lobby, the prepaid card cost RM60 for 2 hrs!! What?? Come on! Internet connection is something so common as common as providing towels in the room. At last we settle for a room that cost slightly higher to get unlimited connection till we check out.
When we went to the room, for something that cost more than RM300 per room per night, it's something that is not worth the money. The furnishing is old, wall paper peeling off, using the water spray requires you to have some muscles cos it was so hard to press it.
We were hungry then but it was too late to drive out and we were tired. I looked thru the room service menu and I was shocked! A plate of mee mamak cost RM34.90 per plate. Same goes for other local delicacies like chicken rice, fried rice, etc etc....*sigh* Luckily we had some food with us. We had that and hubby went to sleep while I stayed up till 3am to finish off my work.
Has breakfast this morning...errr...just so-so. At 9am, there were many dishes that were unavailable. Had to wait for them.
Now I am in the room while hubby had to go for the seminar and then a cocktail party after that. I rather stay in the room cos it's hot outside and I have nowhere to go. Don't really fancy JB... ehehehe!!
Will be going back to that small island tomorrow... can't wait!
Oh ya, received news this morning that my cousin in KL passed away. My mom and my other cousins took the flight this morning to KL. My mom didn't know I was in JB and I have no idea till when she will be in KL. She is uncontactable now... aiyaa!
Of course I said YES!!
So we drove down on yesterday night and checked-in at Puteri Pacific Hotel late midnight. The rest of hubby's colleagues, there's 3 of them, took the flight to JB.
Alright, the hotel first. For a hotel that comes under the name Pan Pacific hotel before, it was quite old and not impressive. When we checked-in, I asked whether there is wi-fi service and they said no. Only broadband cable. Oklaa... I have no choice as I have to submit my work this morning. When I asked for the rate, internet in the room cost RM57 for 24 hrs and if you were to do it in the lobby, the prepaid card cost RM60 for 2 hrs!! What?? Come on! Internet connection is something so common as common as providing towels in the room. At last we settle for a room that cost slightly higher to get unlimited connection till we check out.
When we went to the room, for something that cost more than RM300 per room per night, it's something that is not worth the money. The furnishing is old, wall paper peeling off, using the water spray requires you to have some muscles cos it was so hard to press it.
We were hungry then but it was too late to drive out and we were tired. I looked thru the room service menu and I was shocked! A plate of mee mamak cost RM34.90 per plate. Same goes for other local delicacies like chicken rice, fried rice, etc etc....*sigh* Luckily we had some food with us. We had that and hubby went to sleep while I stayed up till 3am to finish off my work.
Has breakfast this morning...errr...just so-so. At 9am, there were many dishes that were unavailable. Had to wait for them.
Now I am in the room while hubby had to go for the seminar and then a cocktail party after that. I rather stay in the room cos it's hot outside and I have nowhere to go. Don't really fancy JB... ehehehe!!
Will be going back to that small island tomorrow... can't wait!
Oh ya, received news this morning that my cousin in KL passed away. My mom and my other cousins took the flight this morning to KL. My mom didn't know I was in JB and I have no idea till when she will be in KL. She is uncontactable now... aiyaa!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Mid 2011
Time flies... and it's already the middle of the year.
What's up with me now?
I am doing some freelance job with SDI Media and the translation jobs have been pouring in.
Thank God for that.
I finally own a smart phone! Haahahah sounds bimbotic but I think I am one of those few goons who finally made the switch. Anyway, it's my really, really belated birthdya gift. Late..huh?
Hubby and I joined the gym and we started our sessions in April. Tough to get our butt to the gym but once we are done there... the feeling is good! Trying to burn some fats but it's really really slow!!
Hubby finally own his own electric guitar.... after years of wanting for one! He bought it in Singapore when we were there for election day. I am happy for him. But yet to hear a complete song from him! Hehehehhee...
For all these, I thank God for the rezki HE has given us.
And now it's the middle of year and we have not been to anywhere. I need a break! Especially hubby. He is under a lot of stress now so a good holiday will be good for him. And it's only slightly more than a month before fasting month so got to plan for one now. *scratch head*
Will update soon!
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Travel, good news, etc....
Hubby left for Amsterdam yesterday night. He just called about 7pm just now (which is 11am Amsterdam time) to inform me he has safely landed in Amsterdam. Thank God!
While hubby is away till 26th March, Sekyah is here to accompany me. I have no guts to stay at home alone... despite having the 7 cats with me.... hehehee
Anyway, this year will be the last year hubby will be travelling overseas as next year the event will take place in Kuala Lumpur and then the end of contract. We'll see what's next after that.
Anyway, this week has been a good one. On Monday, hubby received a letter to inform him of his performance and the increment he is getting. Alhamdullilah! Thank God for the rezki HE has bestowed upon us. And hubby has achieved what he has been striving for all this while.
The next piece of good news that I received on Wednesday is that I passed the translation test that I sat for 2 weeks ago and that also means I got the job!! I have been offered the job as a freelance translator to translate English subtitles to Malay for documentaries and dramas. Thank God! Tho' it's nothing big, but it's something that I think I like to do and at least I am doing something now. It's been more than 3 years that I have been out of the job scene so this is something for me! Love it!
That's all for now. Counting down the days till next Saturday....
While hubby is away till 26th March, Sekyah is here to accompany me. I have no guts to stay at home alone... despite having the 7 cats with me.... hehehee
Anyway, this year will be the last year hubby will be travelling overseas as next year the event will take place in Kuala Lumpur and then the end of contract. We'll see what's next after that.
Anyway, this week has been a good one. On Monday, hubby received a letter to inform him of his performance and the increment he is getting. Alhamdullilah! Thank God for the rezki HE has bestowed upon us. And hubby has achieved what he has been striving for all this while.
The next piece of good news that I received on Wednesday is that I passed the translation test that I sat for 2 weeks ago and that also means I got the job!! I have been offered the job as a freelance translator to translate English subtitles to Malay for documentaries and dramas. Thank God! Tho' it's nothing big, but it's something that I think I like to do and at least I am doing something now. It's been more than 3 years that I have been out of the job scene so this is something for me! Love it!
That's all for now. Counting down the days till next Saturday....
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
It's the big 10! Happy 10th Anniversary dear!
When we first met, we were leading very different lifestyles. I still remember that we were so unsure of where we were heading after the first meeting. For me, that is. Not sure about you. After 2 years of knowing each other likes and dislikes and went through so many ups and downs, we came to a decision to get married to each other, which I never regretted.
Numerous problems that came in our way before getting married. My father was critically ill at that time and therefore the decision WHEN to get married became very difficult. I changed my mind a few times cos of the emotional turmoil I was going through but you were patient. You supported me all the way and gave me the strength to face the ordeals. God wants us to be together and HE made my Abah well a few days before we got married in Singapore and till the week we got married in KL. Abah was hanging on till we finished our wedding ceremonies. He wanted to see me through like he always did when I was a little girl. He went away knowing that he had served his duties and handed them over to you. He was happy with my choice, I know that.
And several difficulties we faced after marriage have strengthened our relationship. We were living apart for 6 years but you were always there for me. It was as though the distance between us did not exist. Every weekend when we met, it was like the first time going on a date with you. You understood why we had to live apart and I so thank you!
When we stayed together, we faced the most difficult hurdle in our marriage but I am glad that we did not let that weaken us. In fact, it made us stronger. You have given me the strength and integrity out of your love. I love you and thank you for being my life partner. I am proud of myself for being your wife. I hope that no bad would touch us again but I promise that I will be there beside you to go through any rough patches in our life.
And tomorrow as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, I would like to say thank you for making my dreams come true and treating me like the Queen in your life.
HAPPY 10TH ANNIVERSARY, MY LOVE!!
Monday, March 07, 2011
Snip Snip Snippets!
Mom is in KL now and will be here till Sunday. She is here to attend a wedding of my niece and will be attending the guy's side next Saturday.
With mom here, I am busy. Busy cleaning the house and busy cooking on time. Stress! But told myself it's going to be for just a few days.
Had BBQ yesterday at sister-in-law's house. Been sometime since the family gathers together for a BBQ. When we were there, her husband put on the video of his trips to Tahiti, Romania, Fiji, Oslo, etc. He told us that Romania is a nice place to go and best of all, the currency is the same as Ringgit Malaysia. So.....what say me?? Let's do a research on that and we will see from there....
Ok...what else?? Oh ya! This Thursday will be our anniversary. 10th year!! Alhamdullilahhh!! Then this week I will get to know the result of my translation test. And next week, hubby will be away to Amsterdam for 10days!! Really not looking forward to that!
Ok that's it to wrap up for some of the things that are going to happen in March.
Adios!
With mom here, I am busy. Busy cleaning the house and busy cooking on time. Stress! But told myself it's going to be for just a few days.
Had BBQ yesterday at sister-in-law's house. Been sometime since the family gathers together for a BBQ. When we were there, her husband put on the video of his trips to Tahiti, Romania, Fiji, Oslo, etc. He told us that Romania is a nice place to go and best of all, the currency is the same as Ringgit Malaysia. So.....what say me?? Let's do a research on that and we will see from there....
Ok...what else?? Oh ya! This Thursday will be our anniversary. 10th year!! Alhamdullilahhh!! Then this week I will get to know the result of my translation test. And next week, hubby will be away to Amsterdam for 10days!! Really not looking forward to that!
Ok that's it to wrap up for some of the things that are going to happen in March.
Adios!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
BANG!!!
We were in front of the entrance to the Curve and stopped to give way to pedestrians who were crossing the zebra crossing when suddenly, I heard a loud bang and I was thrown forward (and thanks to the seat belt) I was thrown backwards again. I asked hubby what happened and was told that we were hit from the back. Looked at the side mirror and saw a red Wira. We went out to check the damage. The first thing I saw was the front of the Wira which was badly dented and a metal piece that dropped off from it. I immediately imagined that our car will be as bad as that or even worse. Looked and looked but could not find anything except for a little scratch at the base of the bumper. We checked again to see if anything is loose. Nothing!
The driver apologised profusely and said he accidentally stepped on the accelarator instead of the brake. He asked hubby how much was the damage. He couldn't tell and suggested to go to the nearby workshop to touch up on the scratches. But after we discussed about it, hubby decided to let him off. He is a student and since his damage is quite extensive (and that will cost a lot), we decided not to go any further.
But poor Sexy4, had a bruised bump!
The driver apologised profusely and said he accidentally stepped on the accelarator instead of the brake. He asked hubby how much was the damage. He couldn't tell and suggested to go to the nearby workshop to touch up on the scratches. But after we discussed about it, hubby decided to let him off. He is a student and since his damage is quite extensive (and that will cost a lot), we decided not to go any further.
But poor Sexy4, had a bruised bump!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
It's time for some TLC!
Hubby came home, stressed! He was so stressed up that he wanted to resign. Can't stand it anymore especially not getting any support from his direct higher.
Anyway, I managed to calm him down. 16 more months to go before the contract ends. It will be a waste to let it go like that after all the hard work he has put in.
I think he needs some TLC (from me!) and spa treatment! Hehehhehe....
Anyway, I managed to calm him down. 16 more months to go before the contract ends. It will be a waste to let it go like that after all the hard work he has put in.
I think he needs some TLC (from me!) and spa treatment! Hehehhehe....
Lazy bum checking in!
It's already the second month of 2011 and my last entry was last year August! Pemalasnya aku!
The year started off with a bump here and there. I was sick on the second week of January and then again on the second week of February. I lost my cat, Johnny, and I really miss him till today. Then feeling depressed about myself and feeling like the whole world is against me.
Other than that, I am looking forward to more good things that will and are going to happen this year. Insya-Allah!
Things to do this year :
1. Those damn driving licence (how many times daaaa...)
2. Gym (a subtle way of saying...I WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT!)
3. Travel
4. Make some money....( that will help to pay off point 3 and 2 and also 1)
Oklaaa these are the important ones. There are others but not so important.
Let's see what I will update at the end of the year in this blog......
The year started off with a bump here and there. I was sick on the second week of January and then again on the second week of February. I lost my cat, Johnny, and I really miss him till today. Then feeling depressed about myself and feeling like the whole world is against me.
Other than that, I am looking forward to more good things that will and are going to happen this year. Insya-Allah!
Things to do this year :
1. Those damn driving licence (how many times daaaa...)
2. Gym (a subtle way of saying...I WANT TO LOSE WEIGHT!)
3. Travel
4. Make some money....( that will help to pay off point 3 and 2 and also 1)
Oklaaa these are the important ones. There are others but not so important.
Let's see what I will update at the end of the year in this blog......
Monday, August 09, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Thank You, Dear!
Thank you dear for the BEST anniversary present!
The travel, the loots and the fun that we had.... I truly appreciate it!
LOVE YOU!
The travel, the loots and the fun that we had.... I truly appreciate it!
LOVE YOU!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Houston Day 9
It's our last day in Houston. Our flight is scheduled at 5.45pm on 8th May 10 (Houston time). We had a bit of an argument with the Singapore Airline's Customer Service about our assigned seats so we were told to go to the airport 3.5hr earlier to make that request. Before departure, I decided to do last minute shopping as we had not bought anything for our mothers for Mother's Day. Hubby decided to stay as he wanted to do last minute packing. So I went to The Galleria alone. I had only 2 to 2.5 hrs to shop!! Impossible but I will manage!
Went to Macy's as they were having early morning sale for Mother's Day. I really did not what to buy for both mother and mother-in-law. At last went to the handbag's section even tho we had bought handbags before this. Then I saw an Etienne Aigner handbags for sale slashed at 75%. It's nice and simple and it's black, very suitable for the 2 elderly ladies. Went to the price check machine to check on the price and I had to do it 3 times cos I could not believe the price! It was going on sale for USD16!! I grabbed 2 pieces and made the purchase. Even the cashier was amazed at the price. Happy...I went around Macy again but I told myself better get no more handbags or wallets. We had no more space in our luggage. It was a hot day and I was sweating in the departmental store. Oh ya the reason why I had to do this last minute shopping was because of a pair of flats that I saw in Coach the other day. I had to check it out for the last time or I will regret it for life! I went to Coach next and saw the shoes. It was going for USD79, slashed from USD179. I think and think and decided not to...bodohnye!! ( I saw the same shoes here in KL yesterday and it was selling at RM800!!!)
I made my way back to the apartment as it was nearly time but was diverted to buy some other stuff. Went to Nordstrom but things are a bit more pricey there. Walked back and saw hubby at the reception. He was relieved to see me cos I was late by 20 minutes! Heheheh.. I guess I lost track of time. Went up and saw all packed up. Sad to leave but Mahdi was already waiting downstairs for us. Snapped a few pictures and made our way to the airport.
We checked-in and found out that our baggage was in access by 31kg!! The kind lady told us that she would let us through since we only checked-in 3 pieces of luggage. We heaved a sigh of relief cos it would cost us USD55 for every 1lb in access!! Phewww!! Nak argue about the seats assigned pun I am too thankful to argue! hehehe... and we had with us 7 hand-carried items. Went through the agonising custom checks and we waited for another 2hrs to board the plane. We got the middle and window seats but I told hubby, let's think positive or we would be miserable all the way back. It was full house and we asked the stewardess if there were any aisle seats, please let us know. Like I said, service sucks! They did not get back to us....and I decided to give up! Took my panadol and flu pills and dozed off to sleep...yeay!!
Hubby with 7 hand-carried items
Transit in Moscow, changed some money to rubles and bought 2 fridge magnets. It's so difficult to communicate with them and the it was so hot at the airport. Waited for the next plane to Singapore. Did the same and dozed off again. Food this time was horrible!! Started talking to the guy sitting next to us and he is from Jakarta who is now residing in Oklahoma. He is back for holiday for 4 mths. He is doing his own business in US and he was the one who is the distributor for Blackberry in Jkt. We talked about ipad and he told us that he would not recommend ipad, instead get an iphone! It's more worthwhile!
Anyway, we arrived in Singapore at about 5.45am on Monday 10th May. Called Sekcoh and then had breakfast at T3. Then we went out to meet up with Sekcoh to pass her Coach bags to her in exchange for 6 packets of Rex chicken rice and then we headed to T2 for our next flight which will be at 12.45pm. We sat at Starbucks so that hubby can do his work. My legs were hurting so I just sat around. No energy to move about!
Time to fly and back in KL. The taxi driver was really surprised at how heavy our bags were. One of the bags were tagged with HEAVY LUGGAGE - 27KG!
Now back to reality and time to plan for our next trip end of this year....insya-Allah!
I've been wanting to say this... ala Ryan Seacrest....
HOUSTON...I'M OUT!!
Went to Macy's as they were having early morning sale for Mother's Day. I really did not what to buy for both mother and mother-in-law. At last went to the handbag's section even tho we had bought handbags before this. Then I saw an Etienne Aigner handbags for sale slashed at 75%. It's nice and simple and it's black, very suitable for the 2 elderly ladies. Went to the price check machine to check on the price and I had to do it 3 times cos I could not believe the price! It was going on sale for USD16!! I grabbed 2 pieces and made the purchase. Even the cashier was amazed at the price. Happy...I went around Macy again but I told myself better get no more handbags or wallets. We had no more space in our luggage. It was a hot day and I was sweating in the departmental store. Oh ya the reason why I had to do this last minute shopping was because of a pair of flats that I saw in Coach the other day. I had to check it out for the last time or I will regret it for life! I went to Coach next and saw the shoes. It was going for USD79, slashed from USD179. I think and think and decided not to...bodohnye!! ( I saw the same shoes here in KL yesterday and it was selling at RM800!!!)
I made my way back to the apartment as it was nearly time but was diverted to buy some other stuff. Went to Nordstrom but things are a bit more pricey there. Walked back and saw hubby at the reception. He was relieved to see me cos I was late by 20 minutes! Heheheh.. I guess I lost track of time. Went up and saw all packed up. Sad to leave but Mahdi was already waiting downstairs for us. Snapped a few pictures and made our way to the airport.
We checked-in and found out that our baggage was in access by 31kg!! The kind lady told us that she would let us through since we only checked-in 3 pieces of luggage. We heaved a sigh of relief cos it would cost us USD55 for every 1lb in access!! Phewww!! Nak argue about the seats assigned pun I am too thankful to argue! hehehe... and we had with us 7 hand-carried items. Went through the agonising custom checks and we waited for another 2hrs to board the plane. We got the middle and window seats but I told hubby, let's think positive or we would be miserable all the way back. It was full house and we asked the stewardess if there were any aisle seats, please let us know. Like I said, service sucks! They did not get back to us....and I decided to give up! Took my panadol and flu pills and dozed off to sleep...yeay!!
Hubby with 7 hand-carried itemsTransit in Moscow, changed some money to rubles and bought 2 fridge magnets. It's so difficult to communicate with them and the it was so hot at the airport. Waited for the next plane to Singapore. Did the same and dozed off again. Food this time was horrible!! Started talking to the guy sitting next to us and he is from Jakarta who is now residing in Oklahoma. He is back for holiday for 4 mths. He is doing his own business in US and he was the one who is the distributor for Blackberry in Jkt. We talked about ipad and he told us that he would not recommend ipad, instead get an iphone! It's more worthwhile!
Anyway, we arrived in Singapore at about 5.45am on Monday 10th May. Called Sekcoh and then had breakfast at T3. Then we went out to meet up with Sekcoh to pass her Coach bags to her in exchange for 6 packets of Rex chicken rice and then we headed to T2 for our next flight which will be at 12.45pm. We sat at Starbucks so that hubby can do his work. My legs were hurting so I just sat around. No energy to move about!
Time to fly and back in KL. The taxi driver was really surprised at how heavy our bags were. One of the bags were tagged with HEAVY LUGGAGE - 27KG!
Now back to reality and time to plan for our next trip end of this year....insya-Allah!
I've been wanting to say this... ala Ryan Seacrest....
HOUSTON...I'M OUT!!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Houston Day 8
We were up early as my hubby's boss would be fetching us at 8.30am to go to the Johnson's Nasa Space Centre. We had our breakfast and got ready. Due to the not-so-good review that I read the night before, I was not really excited.
Anyway, it took us about 30-40 minutes to reach our destination. Once we reach the NASA area, the GPS went bonkers as it could not detect the new roads there. So we went round and round a few times before we reached our destination. We had to use our 'built-in GPS'.
Once we reached there, there were bus loads of students who just arrived. It was so crowded so we immediately bought our tickets before to avoid the long queue. It cost USD19.95 each but since we had the coupon from the hotel, that was USD5 off the regular price. Once inside, hubby and I decided to try out the Space Simulator. That was another USD4. Well, it was an ok-ok experience. Nothing fantastic. Wished they had the 3D effect for us to be able to experience the "going into space" feeling. Then we waited for the next show. The blast-off show. The children enjoyed it but I found nothing fantastic about it... hahahaa!!
The next one was the talk about Life in Space. Very interesting and informative. The lady explained to us about Life in Space and showed us the LIVE video of the astronauts that are currently in space now. Next we moved on to another talk about how they carried on with their everyday life in space. How they sleep, how they store their clothes, how to go to the toilet and shower, etc etc. Very interesting! Then we waited for the tram to go through the NASA ground. It took us about 30 mins to wait for the tram and before we could board the tram, we had to have our bags checked, take off our belt and went through a metal detector door. The tram tour took about 1 hour.
We went to the actual NASA buildings where they work and prepare all the things for the astronauts to go into space. Houston is not the launching pad to space but it's a place where they train the astronauts before they go into space. So we went to the Space Mock-Up facility where the astronauts train. They are put in real situations so that they will be prepared for life in space. We were told the next batch of astronauts going to space will be next Monday. I forgot to charge the battery for my camera the night before and it went 'kaput' at that very critical time. Arghhh! Had to resort to using my hp's camera to take the pictures. I am damn pissed with myself. Bodohkan!
After that, we had to board the tram again. It slowed down when it reached a group of trees that were planted to honour each and every one of the astronauts that had passed away. Some died during the course of their work and some died due to old age. It was really touching and sad when I passed these trees. Each tree has the name of the astronauts that had passed away.
Then we went to a place where there are 2 replicas of the space ship. Since my camera went 'dead' and I have only an inferior camera phone, I have no mood to take any photographs. We went back to take the tram back to the station. We were told that it's a tradition to scream and shout once the tram passed under the bridge. So that's what we did....SCREAMMMMM!!!!
We bought some souvenirs and then to Hillcroft for lunch. The sun was scorching hot and I could feel my skin burning. Had our beryani and off to TJ Maxx again cos hubby wanted to change one of the jeans he bought yesterday. So hubby's boss sent us there and left cos she had to return the car before 6pm. Did the exchange and bought some more stuff. After buying more stuff, we went to a cafe nearby for a drink and had bread and butter pudding in vanilla sauce. It was so yummy!! The best bread and butter pudding I ever had in my life, even better than the one at the then Cafe Vienna. Rested our feet for a while before going into another shop to look for shoes. Then we hailed for a cab to go back to our apartment. We have to pack by tonight. So many things to pack. Our room was filled with our shopping bags. I really didn't know where to start. At the same time, we did our laundry so at least I won't be bugged with dirty laundry once I reached home. We ended up with 3 big luggages to be checked-in and 7 hand-carried items. I wonder how much the access baggage going to cost us. Wait and see!!
I was already feeling unwell. I was having ticklish throat and runny nose. Went downstairs to the 24/7 mart to purchase some medications. The really nice and kind reception staff gave me some cough drops and recommended me some medication to last me the long flight home tomorrow. Then when we were about to go upstairs, she came and gave me a bottle of vitamin C drink, on the house! I was really touched! I am very impressed with their level of service the moment I stepped into the hotel and this last act of kindness really touched me to the core!
It's my last night in Houston and I am going to miss this place. Love the place the moment I stepped on US soil and I hope I will be back again. The staff at Staybridge Suites at 5190 Hidalgo are really friendly and kind and I am going to miss them. The service is excellent and I will definitely stay in Staybridge Suites again wherever they are available. Fond memories I will never forget.
I'll be back!!
Anyway, it took us about 30-40 minutes to reach our destination. Once we reach the NASA area, the GPS went bonkers as it could not detect the new roads there. So we went round and round a few times before we reached our destination. We had to use our 'built-in GPS'.
Once we reached there, there were bus loads of students who just arrived. It was so crowded so we immediately bought our tickets before to avoid the long queue. It cost USD19.95 each but since we had the coupon from the hotel, that was USD5 off the regular price. Once inside, hubby and I decided to try out the Space Simulator. That was another USD4. Well, it was an ok-ok experience. Nothing fantastic. Wished they had the 3D effect for us to be able to experience the "going into space" feeling. Then we waited for the next show. The blast-off show. The children enjoyed it but I found nothing fantastic about it... hahahaa!!
The next one was the talk about Life in Space. Very interesting and informative. The lady explained to us about Life in Space and showed us the LIVE video of the astronauts that are currently in space now. Next we moved on to another talk about how they carried on with their everyday life in space. How they sleep, how they store their clothes, how to go to the toilet and shower, etc etc. Very interesting! Then we waited for the tram to go through the NASA ground. It took us about 30 mins to wait for the tram and before we could board the tram, we had to have our bags checked, take off our belt and went through a metal detector door. The tram tour took about 1 hour.
We went to the actual NASA buildings where they work and prepare all the things for the astronauts to go into space. Houston is not the launching pad to space but it's a place where they train the astronauts before they go into space. So we went to the Space Mock-Up facility where the astronauts train. They are put in real situations so that they will be prepared for life in space. We were told the next batch of astronauts going to space will be next Monday. I forgot to charge the battery for my camera the night before and it went 'kaput' at that very critical time. Arghhh! Had to resort to using my hp's camera to take the pictures. I am damn pissed with myself. Bodohkan!
After that, we had to board the tram again. It slowed down when it reached a group of trees that were planted to honour each and every one of the astronauts that had passed away. Some died during the course of their work and some died due to old age. It was really touching and sad when I passed these trees. Each tree has the name of the astronauts that had passed away.
Then we went to a place where there are 2 replicas of the space ship. Since my camera went 'dead' and I have only an inferior camera phone, I have no mood to take any photographs. We went back to take the tram back to the station. We were told that it's a tradition to scream and shout once the tram passed under the bridge. So that's what we did....SCREAMMMMM!!!!
We bought some souvenirs and then to Hillcroft for lunch. The sun was scorching hot and I could feel my skin burning. Had our beryani and off to TJ Maxx again cos hubby wanted to change one of the jeans he bought yesterday. So hubby's boss sent us there and left cos she had to return the car before 6pm. Did the exchange and bought some more stuff. After buying more stuff, we went to a cafe nearby for a drink and had bread and butter pudding in vanilla sauce. It was so yummy!! The best bread and butter pudding I ever had in my life, even better than the one at the then Cafe Vienna. Rested our feet for a while before going into another shop to look for shoes. Then we hailed for a cab to go back to our apartment. We have to pack by tonight. So many things to pack. Our room was filled with our shopping bags. I really didn't know where to start. At the same time, we did our laundry so at least I won't be bugged with dirty laundry once I reached home. We ended up with 3 big luggages to be checked-in and 7 hand-carried items. I wonder how much the access baggage going to cost us. Wait and see!!
I was already feeling unwell. I was having ticklish throat and runny nose. Went downstairs to the 24/7 mart to purchase some medications. The really nice and kind reception staff gave me some cough drops and recommended me some medication to last me the long flight home tomorrow. Then when we were about to go upstairs, she came and gave me a bottle of vitamin C drink, on the house! I was really touched! I am very impressed with their level of service the moment I stepped into the hotel and this last act of kindness really touched me to the core!
It's my last night in Houston and I am going to miss this place. Love the place the moment I stepped on US soil and I hope I will be back again. The staff at Staybridge Suites at 5190 Hidalgo are really friendly and kind and I am going to miss them. The service is excellent and I will definitely stay in Staybridge Suites again wherever they are available. Fond memories I will never forget.
I'll be back!!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Houston Day 7
Today is the last day of exhibition for hubby. He will be coming back early. He called and told me that his boss rented a car and will bring us around for more shopping. And she will extend it till the next day so that all of us can go to the Nasa Space Centre together instead of paying for a cab.
Got ready and waited for hubby to come back. We went to Hillcroft again cos all of us had not had our lunch. This time, we went to the Chinese restaurant. Good food and the serving was damn huge! The owner is a Pakistani guy who trained a Mexican cook to cook Chinese food... hahahahaaa... interesting! But the food was good!! Then we went to TJ Maxx to shop for a luggage bag and as usual, we got carried away. Hubby who is usually not interested in shopping, went mad in TJ Maxx. Then we moved on to Marshall which is next door. I told hubby that I will be applying for a job for him here in the US...hahaha! Hubby agreed! Yeayyy!!! A Laura Ashley teapot cost only USD9.99. I bought 2 mugs from Laura Ashley and it's only USD5.99. Stuart Weitzman shoes are on the clearance shelves.... and over in KL, those who goes into Stuart Weitzman boutique, the muka so atas one!! hahahaha! The household stuff there were so tempting but better not! No more space in the bag! But just had to blog here that the Green Pan there is selling for USD12.99 and over here in KL, the price is exorbitantly at RM200 and above!! Now I know why the Americans have nice kitchens.
Hubby's boss sent us back to the apartment. Since it's still early, we went out again and walked around the area. Walked past The Galleria and we ended up somewhere...not sure where tho! Walked and walked till we decided to buy a drink at Starbucks. Coffee at USD2 plus..the most! Coffee in hand, we walked back to the hotel. The cafe was too crowded! We realised that we actually walked quite far from where we stayed. Finally reached the apartment. Early morning tomorrow... so better sleep early!
Got ready and waited for hubby to come back. We went to Hillcroft again cos all of us had not had our lunch. This time, we went to the Chinese restaurant. Good food and the serving was damn huge! The owner is a Pakistani guy who trained a Mexican cook to cook Chinese food... hahahahaaa... interesting! But the food was good!! Then we went to TJ Maxx to shop for a luggage bag and as usual, we got carried away. Hubby who is usually not interested in shopping, went mad in TJ Maxx. Then we moved on to Marshall which is next door. I told hubby that I will be applying for a job for him here in the US...hahaha! Hubby agreed! Yeayyy!!! A Laura Ashley teapot cost only USD9.99. I bought 2 mugs from Laura Ashley and it's only USD5.99. Stuart Weitzman shoes are on the clearance shelves.... and over in KL, those who goes into Stuart Weitzman boutique, the muka so atas one!! hahahaha! The household stuff there were so tempting but better not! No more space in the bag! But just had to blog here that the Green Pan there is selling for USD12.99 and over here in KL, the price is exorbitantly at RM200 and above!! Now I know why the Americans have nice kitchens.
Hubby's boss sent us back to the apartment. Since it's still early, we went out again and walked around the area. Walked past The Galleria and we ended up somewhere...not sure where tho! Walked and walked till we decided to buy a drink at Starbucks. Coffee at USD2 plus..the most! Coffee in hand, we walked back to the hotel. The cafe was too crowded! We realised that we actually walked quite far from where we stayed. Finally reached the apartment. Early morning tomorrow... so better sleep early!
Houston Day 6
Hubby was still not well but he had no choice but to go for the exhibition. I was supposed to meet up with an old friend who just migrated to Texas about a month ago. But there is still no concrete plan yet. So, I decided to go to Katy Mills Mall. It's about 40 mins from my hotel. Since I need to buy an extra luggage bag, I thought why not check it out for any good deals. It's something like Houston Premium outlets. Mahdi, the Ethiopian cab driver, fetched me and sent me to Katy Mills. The cab fare was about USD50 (yeah.. it's like water!).
I headed straight to Books-A-Million. It's a huge bookstore and the books are dirt cheap! I bought 4 books for USD15! Hard cover novels are selling at USD6...the most! Told myself that buying all these books will add the weight to my baggage. Better not! So, I decided to choose those lightweight books. Then, I went around the mall. It's not crowded cos it's the middle of the week and I came during office hours. So, I took my own sweet time to look for stuff. Bought a few t-shirts for the brother, myself and hubby. Bought shoes...yeay!! At last I found a pair that I can fit in and cheap! Bought some souvenirs and then I am feeling so dead tired. Went to buy some cinnamon rolls with pecans. Here, the servings are huge. The amount of pecan nuts they put managed to satisfy my craving for pecan nuts for a long time! Hehehhee...
And then.....I remembered! How to go home?? Erk! I called Mahdi but he was somewhere far from Katy Mills. He asked me to call the Yellow Cab and if there was still no cab, then he would come and fetch me but I had to wait for sometime because of the heavy traffic in Houston. I called for a cab and waited. After about 20 minutes, a cab came driven by a migrant. Once I boarded the cab, he told me he needed to fill up gas. Damn! Another one trying to rip me! Stopped at the gas station and he did not even stop the fare metre. I did not say anything knowing very well that I am not familiar with this place. I decided to keep my mouth shut. Shortly, I received a message from hubby telling me to meet him at The Galleria cos his boss will be bringing us to the beryani place at Hillcroft. Told the cab driver about the change in venue. Once I reached the Galleria, the fare was USD55 (phew!). Gave him USD60 and he said thanks! Hahahaha.. damnit! No way am I going to give it to him! I told him I am waiting for my change! He just smiled and started digging in his pockets. Idiot! (Berani la cos dah reach a familiar place!)
Went for dinner at Hillcroft with hubby and his boss and packed some food back. So many halal restaurants there..... they even have Halal Chinese food! Took a cab back and hubby got his much needed rest as he was still feeling unwell.
I headed straight to Books-A-Million. It's a huge bookstore and the books are dirt cheap! I bought 4 books for USD15! Hard cover novels are selling at USD6...the most! Told myself that buying all these books will add the weight to my baggage. Better not! So, I decided to choose those lightweight books. Then, I went around the mall. It's not crowded cos it's the middle of the week and I came during office hours. So, I took my own sweet time to look for stuff. Bought a few t-shirts for the brother, myself and hubby. Bought shoes...yeay!! At last I found a pair that I can fit in and cheap! Bought some souvenirs and then I am feeling so dead tired. Went to buy some cinnamon rolls with pecans. Here, the servings are huge. The amount of pecan nuts they put managed to satisfy my craving for pecan nuts for a long time! Hehehhee...
And then.....I remembered! How to go home?? Erk! I called Mahdi but he was somewhere far from Katy Mills. He asked me to call the Yellow Cab and if there was still no cab, then he would come and fetch me but I had to wait for sometime because of the heavy traffic in Houston. I called for a cab and waited. After about 20 minutes, a cab came driven by a migrant. Once I boarded the cab, he told me he needed to fill up gas. Damn! Another one trying to rip me! Stopped at the gas station and he did not even stop the fare metre. I did not say anything knowing very well that I am not familiar with this place. I decided to keep my mouth shut. Shortly, I received a message from hubby telling me to meet him at The Galleria cos his boss will be bringing us to the beryani place at Hillcroft. Told the cab driver about the change in venue. Once I reached the Galleria, the fare was USD55 (phew!). Gave him USD60 and he said thanks! Hahahaha.. damnit! No way am I going to give it to him! I told him I am waiting for my change! He just smiled and started digging in his pockets. Idiot! (Berani la cos dah reach a familiar place!)
Went for dinner at Hillcroft with hubby and his boss and packed some food back. So many halal restaurants there..... they even have Halal Chinese food! Took a cab back and hubby got his much needed rest as he was still feeling unwell.
Thursday, May 06, 2010
Houston Day 5
Nothing much happened either on Day 5.
I walked to The Galleria to change some money. Met hubby there and he was really feeling lousy then. Ate some snacks from the food court and I went to Victoria's Secret. A trip to US is not complete if you don't go to Victoria's Secret....right?? Hehehehhee Bought some stuff and we decided to go for Halal food at Hillcroft. Took a cab there. We were ripped off... $22 for a 10 min journey. We could not find the shop that we were supposed to go so we decided to go to the first Halal shop that we see. We went to Shawarma King and had our dinner there. Not bad but the rice sucks!
We decided to call our regular cab driver instead this time. And this time, the fare was only $9!!! Argh!!! Idiotic cab driver! I wished I took down his cab number. Reached our room and hubby was feeling really sick... gave him some medications and told him to sleep. I was with a friend online to try to figure out when and how to meet her. She is new here as well.
Hubby asked me whether we should extend for another day since his conference will end this Thursday and we were supposed to go home so there is not much time for him to go around Houston. Of course, I said YES! Made some calls to change our flight plans and we will be going back on Saturday (8th May) instead! Yeay!!
I walked to The Galleria to change some money. Met hubby there and he was really feeling lousy then. Ate some snacks from the food court and I went to Victoria's Secret. A trip to US is not complete if you don't go to Victoria's Secret....right?? Hehehehhee Bought some stuff and we decided to go for Halal food at Hillcroft. Took a cab there. We were ripped off... $22 for a 10 min journey. We could not find the shop that we were supposed to go so we decided to go to the first Halal shop that we see. We went to Shawarma King and had our dinner there. Not bad but the rice sucks!
We decided to call our regular cab driver instead this time. And this time, the fare was only $9!!! Argh!!! Idiotic cab driver! I wished I took down his cab number. Reached our room and hubby was feeling really sick... gave him some medications and told him to sleep. I was with a friend online to try to figure out when and how to meet her. She is new here as well.
Hubby asked me whether we should extend for another day since his conference will end this Thursday and we were supposed to go home so there is not much time for him to go around Houston. Of course, I said YES! Made some calls to change our flight plans and we will be going back on Saturday (8th May) instead! Yeay!!
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