tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58139557904781747382024-03-13T13:40:59.527+08:00Life...As It GoesThis Blog Is About Our Life (My Family & I), Thoughts, Travels & All There Is That Makes Our Life More Colourful, Beautiful and AppreciatedMia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-84893323915388205632014-05-13T21:34:00.001+08:002014-05-13T21:34:23.280+08:00Like Father Like Son<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/13/316.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/13/s_316.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-79645692086588004022014-05-11T23:49:00.001+08:002014-05-11T23:49:42.072+08:00My Children and Zzzzzzz.......<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/11/456.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/11/s_456.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/11/457.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/11/s_457.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/11/458.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/11/s_458.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/11/459.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/11/s_459.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/05/11/460.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/05/11/s_460.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Hmmm......<br /><br />Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-57834332803386731892014-02-28T19:54:00.001+08:002014-03-01T10:58:13.112+08:00On Being ParentsI am sure most of us are aware of the couple being charged with abusing their children in Sweden. Since, a lot of positive and negative reactions were given either through the formal or informal channels. Well, I am not going to make any comments on that for I do not know them personally and I think it is very unfair for those who do not know them to make any comments especially negative ones. We do not know what happened exactly. But what I believed is, at this crucial moment the couple and their children need our prayers for the best outcome. Anyway, who are we to judge?<br /><br />It is not easy being parents. I know for sure as I am one. All parents wanted the best for their children. Wanted them to be perfect, almost - at times forgetting that they are also human who make mistakes. But let us all be real. We can only do the best we could and the rest is up to them. We cannot protect them at all times and we cannot expect them to be the angels we wish them to be for they are not.<br /><br />I do not believe in caning. Excuse my limited knowledge but through what I learned, Islam approved of cane to be a symbol in disciplining the children and not to be used if possible. Even when it has to be used it must be with the gentle stroke in areas which will not inflict pain. Islam never teaches its followers to resort to violence. It saddened me when islam approval of caning when children refused to pray at the age of ten were seen as barbaric by others who do not really understand the principle behind it.<br /><br />One article contributed by Prof. Muhammad Hashim Kamali awhile ago caught my interest. He mentioned that "Abu'l Hasan al-Qabisi (an author, d. 1012), wrote that the best approach to discipline was to communicate with the child, with kindness and concern, in an effort to identify the causes of the issue and try to appeal to the child's understanding. For the child, despite his immaturity, is a human endowed with the gift of reason and the ability to know the causes of things. One should not mix anger and emotion in the decision to cane".<br /><br />Wallahua'lam.<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-15319083552471241412014-02-08T09:17:00.001+08:002014-02-08T09:17:51.581+08:00On a mission....<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/07/1332.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/07/s_1332.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We sent Danish to his new school on Feb. 5, 2014. Mia and Aqil refused to go to school that day to send their beloved brother. I tried to be very brave and tried harder not to cry in front of him (though I must admit I was teary on the way home).<br /><br />Home is never the same again. There's somehow a feeling of emptiness - a space too much. I hope the feeling will ease away bit by bit as I know he will be alright. He wanted to go to boarding school. He wants to be independent. And Alhamdulillah he secured a place in a very good school. <br /><br />Though I know the chance is slim for him to call that night, I secretly waited for his call. It never came. Gladly he called on the following night at around 11. I was already going to sleep.<br /><br />"Danish?"<br /><br />"Salam Ibu. Thank you for picking up the phone. I don't have much time, Ibu. Just to let you know I'm fine. I've made a few friends and the Form 5 seniors are kind too."<br /><br />"Ok Darling. I am glad you are ok. I've been waiting for your call."<br /><br />"I know Ibu. But don't worry. I like this school, Ibu. Ibu, I can go out this Saturday."<br /><br />"Alright Darling. We'll be there after Baba finished work, ok? What time can we pick you up?"<br /><br />"After 12.00 until 6.00, Ibu."<br /><br />"Ok Darling. We'll see you then. Anything you need from here?"<br /><br />"Just your prayers, Ibu. Ok Ibu, I have to go now. I love you."<br /><br />"I love you very much. Take care." And the line went off.<br /><br />Last night he called saying that there was a change of plan. He was not allowed to go out but we can visit him at school. So today, we will go visit him. I want to see for myself that he truly is settling down alright.<br /><br />Happy Saturday everyone.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-2837387579834421732014-01-17T08:19:00.001+08:002014-01-17T08:19:34.780+08:00Leaving the nest...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/16/1111.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/16/s_1111.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Danish was offered a place at one of the residential schools. He was happy as he managed to get a place at the school which he applied for. I was happy for him though deep in me it is quite difficult for me to let him go. He's my son. My eldest. The one who spent the longest beside me. But as I promised myself, I have to learn to let him go. He has to spread his wings like my Mum let me. Well,... Maybe my Mum is stronger. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/16/1112.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/16/s_1112.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Last night after we came back from the Surau, we talked about the offer again. <br /><br />"Ibu, I am going to accept the offer."<br /><br />"You sure? You don't want to wait for MRSM?"<br /><br />"It's alright Ibu. I think I am going for this one."<br /><br />"Ok Darling."<br /><br />And he clicked the "yes" button. Appeared the links to the Offer Letter and the Offer Book.<br /><br />We went through them.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/16/1113.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/16/s_1113.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />"I am gonna miss you." I told him.<br /><br />"I am gonna miss you too, Ibu." And he hugged me - well, our family is full of hugs and kisses. "And thank you for letting me go."<br /><br />"I have too Darling. I have too." No matter how difficult it feels. At this moment I realised how true it was when someone told me "you will always have a special closeness to your eldest".<br /><br />It is still another three weeks before he registered. I am not going to think about it now. I want to enjoy us being a "complete" family. I am sure to miss him knocking at my door at around 2.45 p.m. "I am home, Ibu" or receiving his calls telling me he is going to stay back to complete his work or simply to drop by at his friend's Farouk's place. Farouk was also offered a place at a residential school too but his is further away, in Hulu Terengganu. In a very short time, I will no longer received any call, "Auntie, can I speak to Danish, please?" I am going to miss them. <br /><br />Looks like I have to be brave now. I know I will be a little "lost" when he left. But I know he will be alright. How could he not when he has all the prayers, blessings and love that he needs?<br /><br />Happy Friday everyone and a good long weekends.<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-72627286944895676842014-01-13T23:01:00.001+08:002014-01-14T11:44:07.820+08:00Exactly?!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/13/1557.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/13/s_1557.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Well, we are into the third week of January now. Time does fly. This time last year I was still in London, working my bones. And I was quite excited that after changing and re-changing my topic for my PhD application (which involved changes in topics, then changes in the problem statements), I finally completed my proposal to my satisfaction (those evaluating it may not, mind you!). It's application time now... But that's alright...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/13/544.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/13/s_544.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Three members of my family have their birthdays a week apart in January and February - Aqil on Jan 27, Mia on Feb 2 and their father on Feb 9. Four days back, Aqil told me that he wanted a tablet for his birthday - "a cheap one will do, Ibu". So I told him I will let his Baba knows and see what he will say. Aqil was ok with that and he went and browsed the internet for "cheapest tablet in Malaysia". "Ibu, the cheapest is RM169. Tell Baba ok?"<br /><br />Well, somehow I didn't quite remember until Aqil reminded me Saturday night. <br /><br />We attended our friend's son's birthday party that day in Semenyih (about 54km away from where we stay). It is more like birthday party for our children and a mini gathering for us who once lived in Dundee. There were also a family who just came back 2 weeks ago. Such, it was a merry gathering and when we left, it was already well into midnight.<br /><br />I was already asleep, when I felt someone was touching my shoulder. <br />I reluctantly opened my eyes (part of them, that is).<br /><br />"Ibu...." It's Aqil whispering.<br /><br />"Hmmm...?"<br /><br />"Have you asked Baba?" He whispered slightly louder.<br /><br />I was like... Exactly?!!! "What time is it?" I managed to ask.<br /><br />He left my side and came back with my mobile.<br /><br />God! This is real? My son asking me if I have asked his father of his birthday gift at 2.20 in the morning?! But, what can I do? Perhaps he's still excited from the party he had just attended.<br /><br />"I haven't Darling. I have forgotten. I am sorry, ok? I will ask him tomorrow."<br /><br />"Ok Ibu. Thank you. I love you." He said still whispering.<br /><br />Well, that was not the only time I was awakened very early in the morning. The other time, it was Hakim.<br /><br />I remember that I was also very tired that night. I haven't slept for long (I think) when I heard a voice "Bu, Ibu.."<br /><br />"Hmmm...."<br /><br />"Bu, Liverpool won against Tottenham..."<br /><br />Well, that's my children for you. And last night I think I also heard him came into our room and said to me.."Liverpool won, Ibu.... against Stoke.."<br /><br />Well.....<br /><br />Happy MaulidurRasul and Holiday :)<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-31617597947402432232013-12-26T10:10:00.001+08:002013-12-26T10:10:38.923+08:00My Dear AqilAqil gained weight since we came back. Not just a bit but a lot. From a skinny curly haired boy to a .... well, how should I put it in the most subtle manner... Hmm... how about a little ... maybe the following pictures can help.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/12/25/1969.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/12/25/s_1969.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/12/25/1970.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/12/25/s_1970.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We're not really sure how it started. Suddenly he became bigger - bloating? Well, I started checking his weight/height statistic to ensure that he is not obese. Gladly he is not. <br /><br />But what I am going to tell you is not about him being obese. All the while I thought only his Dad and I are worried about his weight. How wrong I was. What I heard yesterday opened my eyes that the 'Aqil's problem' is a family concern.<br /><br />Damia : Aqil, you shouldn't be hungry again. We have just eaten.<br /><br />Aqil : But I am hungry...<br /><br />Damia : You are growing fatter and fatter Aqil. You have to control eating. <br /><br />Baba : You should fast tomorrow.<br /><br />Damia : If you do not want to fast, you should go jogging, do some exercises<br /><br />Aqil : (quiet)<br /><br />Damia : You should be able to run at least once around the house. But look at <br /> you, you can't even run or exercise for 5 minutes when I asked you...<br /><br />Oh Dear, I didn't realised that Mia is so worried about his brother until yesterday. <br /><br />Something surely need to be done about Aqil.<br /><br /><br /><br />Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-79181431244091864532013-12-19T16:28:00.001+08:002013-12-22T10:11:50.442+08:00Setting It!Since early this week, I was feeling unsettled. I tried to do my work but my mind wanders elsewhere. I am not always like this. Ooh...! The agony of waiting! <br /><br />Some time in August this year I wrote an entry on how worried Danish is about sitting for PMR. To be honest, I worried more than he does. Once it was made known that the result will be out on December 19, I had butterflies in my stomach...<br /><br />There's nothing else we can do. It was over and done with. For sure the result will be parallel to the amount of work put into it - simple logic. Of course with the AlMighty's Blessings.<br /><br />So, on the way to school to fetch his result this morning, I suddenly felt a little emotional - hmmm... I remembered how hard he works for his exams, I cannot bear thinking of how disappointed he will be if his result is not as he had hoped for. So, I told him, "Danish, just remember one thing. Whatever the result is, we still love you so... much. Don't you ever think that we will be disappointed or sad, ok? (What can we expect when he has so little time to prepare..)".<br /><br />"Yes Danish. We love you so... much." His father chipped in.<br /><br />So, when the Headmistress was saying, "35 getting straight As this year. 23 last year". I was like, "ok..." I don't even dare to have a slightest hope! I felt so.. much for my son.<br /><br />Then, all us parents were invited into the Hall. The Headmistress will be announcing the 35 names. I sat quietly in my corner. Just glad when names after names was announced. I was thinking how happy the student and parents might be. As for me... I will keep to my corner.<br /><br />"Ibu, there's only two more names." said Damia when suddenly I heard his name announced.<br /><br />Nothing can describe how I felt at that moment. I was elated all the while thanking the AlMighty. I looked for my husband. I can see tears coming down. We hugged each other, very thankful and at the same time glad for Danish.<br /><br />Congratulations my Darling! You have set a benchmark for your brothers and sister. Hopefully they will follow your footsteps.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/12/21/1489.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/12/21/s_1489.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/12/19/191.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/12/19/s_191.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/12/21/1490.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/12/21/s_1490.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-12959428234102653312013-11-26T09:39:00.001+08:002013-12-31T20:06:37.084+08:00The Aqil's StoryAmong all my children, Aqil is the one who would want to achieve something at school and to get a gift from his effort. He always want to be something. Since he knew about a position called class monitor, asst. class monitor and prefect, he wanted to be them all. The other day, when he was at my Mum's place he found my name tag - Yeap! My prefect name tag when I was at school many moons ago (that long???!) - he was like "What? You are a prefect? How come you never tell me about this before?" As if I owe it to him to tell him everything! "I don't have to tell you everything..." I said. "But this is different! You are a Prefect!" - like it is the only thing that matters - he must be kidding me!<br /><br />"How did you get to be a prefect?"<br /><br />Oh c'mon! Is he real? I am sometimes amazed with my own kids!<br /><br />"The teachers chose us. Then the whole school voted. That's how."<br /><br />"Are they going to do the same at my school?"<br /><br />"I think each school has its own way of choosing their prefects. Anyway, I don't think there will be any elected from Year 2. (He is going to be in Year 2 this coming school year).<br /><br />"When can I be a prefect?" Now I almost feel it for him. I think he is going to make it a mission now.<br /><br />"Maybe until you are in Year 4 or 5?"<br /><br />"That's a long way yet."<br /><br />"Yes Darling. Perhaps you just try your best to be a good student first."<br /><br />That kept him quiet for a bit.<br /><br />"How come you only put Danish's story in your blog? I received a gift too this year. From school."<br /><br />Ok Sweetheart. I am putting yours now.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/12/31/272.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/12/31/s_272.jpg' border='0' width='158' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-10001035015823515862013-09-22T22:04:00.001+08:002013-09-22T22:04:00.160+08:00Animals FanAqil loves animals. His last bid was in favour of kittens brought to school by one of the teachers. <br /><br />"Ibu, do you like cats?"<br /><br />Sensing there's a catch in that somewhat innocent question, all my build-in alarm systems started giving me a warm amber glow. I could swear I heard siren as well!<br /><br />"I do but only if they are owned by other people. We cannot afford anymore pets after the bunnies."<br /><br />"But these kittens are so... cute, I am sure you will love them."<br /><br />"The answer is no sweetheart. And that's final."<br /><br />"Oh...ok. But if we have more money, can we have a cat?"<br /><br />"Not until you are responsible enough to take care of them. See what happened to the bunnies? They are yours and Mia's but it's always either me or Hakim or even your Dad cleaning after them and feeding them. Nope."<br /><br />So the matter rest.<br /><br />But during one of our impromptu Open House visits (we were at the beach when a friend invited us to their Open House - he said it doesn't matter if we are not in our Eid attire. So there!<br /><br />And it was so much fun for Aqil as it happened, our friend has a brother who keeps goats. And so....<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/22/794.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/22/s_794.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hmm.... Trying the best approach...<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/22/789.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/22/s_789.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Aha! Got that one!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/22/796.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/22/s_796.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Yes!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/22/799.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/22/s_799.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Well, before there be another innocent question on goats, I have some explanations to do....!<br /><br />Happy Saturday Everyone :D<br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-19161841514631420832013-09-19T11:21:00.001+08:002013-09-19T22:48:20.543+08:00"Sports Day"After days (or shall I say, months) of practicing, finally today is the Sports Day at Damia's and Aqil's school.<br /><br />Unsure of how the system is for other schools but at their school, the students are divided into two levels. Level 1 for Year 1, 2 and 3 and Level 2 for Year 4, 5 and 6. Such, today is the Sports Day or more to tele-match for Level 1 students.<br /><br />So, off we went to their school together with throngs of other parents promising ourselves to be as supportive and gentlemanly to the eager youngsters. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1960.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1960.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Aqil waiting or his turn.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1961.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1961.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />His Blue Team managed to get a second place.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/2004.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_2004.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A proud winner.<br /><br />Once Aqil's event is done, it's his cousin Erwin's turn.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1963.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1963.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Erwin getting ready.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1964.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1964.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Erwin in action. <br /><br />His team managed to get the third place. They were two members down and two of them including him has to go twice. <br />Unfortunately for him, the table tennis ball fell off from his spoon twice. But he is a good sport, Erwin.<br /><br />Up till this point, my husband, Erwin's parents and auntie are here with me. But since they have commitments, I was left alone to support Mia. I guessed I will be a while yet as Year 3 has yet to start their event. Anyway, I managed to gather a few of her friends for a photo shoot.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1966.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1966.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Damia with the her friends Aireen, Azhira, Ain Sofea and Aida.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1969.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1969.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1970.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1970.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Part of the Team<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1974.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1974.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Queuing for the medal<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/18/1975.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/18/s_1975.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Two very happy Malaysian roses.<br /><br />Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-58486592034675207632013-09-16T00:11:00.001+08:002013-09-16T07:52:52.574+08:00Talking through memory lane<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/15/752.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/15/s_752.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />We were on our way home from visiting my Mum when the topic of conversation turned to the music scene.<br />"Hmmm... I hardly listen to any songs by the British singers though the radio here. I haven't heard any Dappy, Little Mix, Ed Sheeran, Olly Murs or even Adele. I heard One Direction once or twice. Maybe because I didn't listen to the radio often enough..."<br />"But Ibu, they are not famous here. The American singers are more famous here and Justin Bieber."<br />And of course one topic lead to another.<br />"I miss the programmes too! QI, Mock of the Week"<br />"Yeah... Top Gear, the Richard Hammond thingy,..."<br />"I miss the Antique Road Trip and the Game show..."<br />"Yeah... The Cube, £1 Million Drop..."<br />"Anyone beaten the Cube yet after Mo Farah? I wonder...on Saturdays, we will somehow watch Britain's Got Talent or X Actor whichever in season..."<br />Suddenly my husband who was driving chipped in.<br />"And Saturdays Margaret and her sister-in-law will be knocking at our door too... "<br />"Saturdays also remind me of going to the charity shop. Gary's shop. I still remember asking him once, 'Gary, do you have anymore of Harry Bowling's book?' And the answer came 'whatever I have Darling, have gone to your home...'".<br />"Yeah... That's Gary..."<br />And we have a good laugh when we thought about our neighbour's son Ali. Saturdays, I can almost be sure to come down to the kitchen seeing Ali and his brother and sister eating whatever happened to be on our dining table - biscuits, brioche, wafers, fairy cakes,... At first we were not quite sure how they got in but when we checked there was a gap through the hedge dividing the two houses and our sliding door which open out to the back garden was more often left unlocked. And Ali is a very mischievous boy. He will be knocking at our front door many times a day, standing or jumping on top of his Mom's car, running out of the house as soon as his front door is opened. Once it stopped an oncoming car as he ran right across the road! Hmmm... Ali!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/15/753.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/15/s_753.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />On Saturdays too, if I went to work, the children and their father will have their little trips to the Galaxy where the cinema is. Every Saturday they will get the £1 ticket during the Parent and Child screening. The movies are all junior movies but they love them so much. <br />Well, at the moment, there's a lot more things came into my mind. Guessed I will continue on this some time later. I am feeling quite nostalgic especially<br />when thinking about friends who are like families whom we left behind... I need my own quiet moment now... <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/15/754.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/15/s_754.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Happy Hari Malaysia :)<br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-16662267837956436762013-09-14T23:25:00.001+08:002013-09-14T23:25:24.112+08:00 Our Little EscapadeMore often than not when the weather gets colder, the children chose to stay at home rather than following us out during the weekends. Perhaps they got bored with our routine : Hitchin (our must buy - a few £ worth of flowers and honey roasted cashew) - grocery shopping (Asda/Tesco/Sainsburys) - Oriental Food Centre (in Union Street) - Home. The only variation is if we have some gardening to do and we have to drop by at B&Q.<br /><br />On this particular slightly drizzling Saturday morning (it was pouring the night before), only Danish wanted to go with us. It started of with us meeting some Malaysians at Hitchin market. They informed us that they have just visited the Lavender Farm and we were like "What? lavender farm? right under our noses?" Hmm... <br /><br />So, once we bought the flowers and cashew nuts plus browsing at one of our favourite shops (antique items i.e furniture and curiosities), we quickly made our way to the car and started browsing for Hitchin Lavender Farm - thanks to the satnav, we managed to find the location. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/14/846.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/14/s_846.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> Yes! We found it!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/14/847.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/14/s_847.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> As far as you can see it!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/14/848.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/14/s_848.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> How pretty....Subhanallah <br /> <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/14/849.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/14/s_849.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> The face of someone who was forced "to enjoy<br /> the scenery and drown in the smell" :)<br /><br />But you see, when we arrived, there was a family with three young children going towards the farm. As there is no sign or anything on entrance fee to the farm, we made our way right behind the young family.<br /><br />On the way out, we went to the Farm Shop, bought a bottle of lavender oil and a bar of lavender soap. Just as we were leaving we saw it! And we felt guilty : The signage on entrance fee!<br /><br />Happy Weekend & Hari Malaysia Everyone :)<br /><br /><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Hitchin&z=10'>Hitchin</a></p>Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-488179777382413222013-08-26T10:23:00.004+08:002013-09-13T10:57:05.986+08:00A Mum's RamblingI was quite pissed off. It has been a few entries now that the photos I attached simply couldn't load correctly.<br /><br />Anyway, I have tried to "re-attach" the photos. Hopefully this issue I much dreaded is by now settled.<br /><br />These few days have been quite a busy one for me. I am in the midst of completing my proposal for application to secure a place to pursue my Doctoral Degree. Completed one earlier but after giving a deeper thought, I do not think I can bear living with the topic for the next three years. Such I am now on a new topic. Quite a new one with less ready material - hmmm.... I like to suffer don't I? Hopefully I can complete it by next week...<br /><br />As I wrote this piece I was actually under a very shady tree by the beach somewhere in Pulau Indah. The sea breeze pulling and tugging ...ohh... so peaceful.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1991.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1991.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />My husband was somewhere with his friends checking the net which a few of them had set early in the morning. Hakim, Damia & Aqil were somewhere in the beach - swimming and making sand castles. Danish? Under the tree somewhere beside me, revising. Well, shall I tell him that all work and no play make Jack (or Awang or George or Lim for that matter) a dull boy?<br /><br />Well, Danish is worried. So worried. We came back in February this year. He started schooling in March. And eventhough he was already in Year 10 (equivalent to Form 4) in England, since he has yet to reach his 15th birthday, he was placed in the 3rd Form. Of course he has to sit for PMR this year and knowing that PMR covers lessons for the past two years as well. He was devastated! Freaked out.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1992.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1992.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />So, Danish has been studying from Day 1. His dream is to get into a boarding school next year. We set a plan. He has to take all eight compulsory subjects. He has to concentrate on these. We bought books from a few publishers for each subject, practice on past years questions, identify the favourite topics and of course - send his for tuition for BM. God! BM is difficult nowadays. Not just for Danish but also for his younger siblings. If I were to take the exam, there is no doubt that I will fail. I am pretty sure of that. Slowly Danish made a progress. A painful one for him.<br /><br />A week after he was registered at school, he has to sit for the 1stTerm Exam. We put no pressure on him. He managed to get only 1A, 2cs, 3ds &2es. He was so down. We told him that result didn't count. What do we expect? He's only at school for a week. But that didn't cheer him up.<br /><br />"Mum, some of the subjects are so strange to me - kemahiran hidup (life skills?), I never do geography and of course not Sejarah (history). And to think that I have to learn in these few months three years worth of syllabus for 8 subjects?"<br /><br />Slowly we look at the subjects. We marked the favourite topics and we read the answers to the subjective questions. There is no time to figure out the answers ourselves. With answers from a few publishers on the same question, there must be one better answer. Deep in me I know he will somehow try to do his best. And to be honest, I am not worried nor am I expecting miracle for him.<br /><br />His journey must be quite terrifying for him. He is the eldest and he is very determined in setting a good example to his siblings. And we support him. His mid-year exam, he managed 2As, 3Bs, 2Cs & 1E (history) and his recent (PMR trial) he managed 3As, 4Bs & 1C.<br /><br />"Do you think I can managed 8As Ibu? For the real exam? I want so much to get all As."<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1993.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1993.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Well, I know he will be heart broken if he couldn't. But looking at the way he work himself each day, I hope he will. I can only provide him with some guidance and prayers. Whatever he gets he is still one of my beloved sons.<br /><br />Happy Monday everyone :)<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-68810298839119432212013-08-22T10:57:00.001+08:002013-09-13T14:11:56.391+08:00Our Day Out<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2483.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2483.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='180' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Alhamdulillah...! As mentioned in the previous two or three entries (on Brecon Beacon), I have totally resolved my "picture attachment" issue. And so happy was I with that! Now I am wishing if ipad will have "paper artist" apps... I am so in love with it.<br />Anyway, I am not here talking about my "love life". We are one happy family who always have short trips and most were unplanned. Of course we read about it one day and either by chance some times later when we were within the vicinity of the area, we will like "there is a fruit farm around this area, let's check it out!" Or, "my colleague said there's a park here somewhere" or "Baba, my friend was here last week. There is a fair somewhere around..". And our visit to Leighton Buzzard Railway was a result of this.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2484.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2484.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I think it was one of the Bank Holidays. A very fine summer morning. Normally there will be car boot sales on but if I remember correctly we gave it a pass. Way when Danish and Hakim were around 5 & 3, we went to Pickering to visit the North Yorkshire Moor Railway. They wanted to see the real steam engine. We went there but unfortunately as we arrived there a bit late, we managed to just take photos of the engine but couldn't managed to get on the train. It was said that the engine itself appeared in the first Harry Porter movie. <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2485.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2485.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Anyway, the engine that we embarked on at Leighton Buzzard is a 70 minutes light ride, passed the fields, <br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2486.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2486.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2487.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2487.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Village roads, (the gentleman wearing the cap? He was the driver that day as well as the signal man . Multi-tasking eh?)<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2488.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2488.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />village residential areas,<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2489.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2489.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2490.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2490.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />not to mention bramble hedges from Page's Park to Stonehenge Works.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2491.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2491.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2492.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2492.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2493.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2493.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />"Are we there yet?"<br />For information the ride takes one from Page's Park to Stonehenge Works through Marley's Loop, Leedon Loop and Vandyke Junction ( steep gradient!). During the First World War the rail is used to transport sands from Belgium for the ammunition factories. This continue during the Second World War.<br />Among the locomotives that can be witnessed at Stonehenge Works.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2495.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2495.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='226' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />To be honest we do love train. For leisure that's it. I don't even mind my daily trips using the First Capital Connect or East Midlands (not during winter though when there are always signalling problems!). But I sure do not always like the tube! <br /><br />Happy Friday everyone :D<br /><br />source of pictures 1 and 12 : Wikipedia<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Leighton%20Buzzard%20Light%20Railway&z=10'>Leighton Buzzard Light Railway</a></p>Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-43229535545029245082013-08-22T09:55:00.001+08:002013-09-13T11:01:57.617+08:00Happiness.... (The River - Sg Lopo Hulu Langat 2)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2000.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2000.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2001.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2001.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2002.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2002.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2003.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2003.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-80887252524257520692013-08-22T09:36:00.000+08:002013-09-13T10:46:05.090+08:00Happiness.... (The River - Sg Lopo Hulu Langat 1)<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1981.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1981.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1982.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1982.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1983.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1983.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1984.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1984.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1985.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1985.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-81648964729778917602013-08-21T19:08:00.000+08:002013-09-13T11:51:26.051+08:00Brecon BeaconLate summer last year we went to Wales. As our trip there was quite a last minute decision, instead of going to Snowdonia (most accommodations fully booked!) we decided to go to Brecon Beacon instead.<br /><br />At last! The matter of including photos for my blog is resolved! Coming to think about it, I guess it is stupidity on my side. Let's not rub it in, thanks to Blogpress, I can now happily attach all the photos that I want! Huh!<br /><br />In fact! I will have less writing in this entry but more photos! Yes!<br /><br />Errr... By the way, Llyn Y Fan Fach is located in the area of Black Mountain, Brecon Beacons. It is so....breathtakingly beautiful, MasyaAllah. I may add notes later on but at the moment, let the photos do the talking...<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2152.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2152.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2153.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2153.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2156.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2156.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2158.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2158.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2159.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2159.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2162.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2162.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2164.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2164.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2166.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2166.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2185.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2185.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2186.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2186.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2187.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2187.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2188.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2188.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2189.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2189.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/2190.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_2190.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Till then. Happy Friday Everyone! ;D<br /><p class='blogpress_location'>Location:<a href='http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Llyn%20Y%20Fan%20Fach?&z=10'>Llyn Y Fan Fach?</a></p>Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-88548319369013679852013-08-20T10:15:00.003+08:002013-09-13T10:42:10.100+08:00The Lost Boy....And Found!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1979.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1979.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />"Ibu, I met Hakim at the Surau in Section 2 and he said he will be back around six. He said he will start walking from Section 2 at around 5.30." Danish informed me as he came back from Friday prayer around three weeks ago.<br /><br />But Hakim didn't reach home even when it's nearly time for breaking our fast. I was worried. Since 7.00 p.m. I have been asking Danish again and again what exactly did Hakim said. I was getting more and more anxious. I called my husband but he simply said that Hakim will be back.<br /><br />Unlike Danish, Hakim hardly mentioned his friends' names. He never brought any of his friends home. I only remembered that we sent him to one of his friends' house in Section 2 for their English project.<br /><br />It was nearly 7.45 - no Hakim. But at least my husband was back. "Is he home yet?"he asked. I shook my head. I managed to contact his friend. The only no. that I have which at that time felt like my life line to Hakim.<br /><br />"Auntie, he's not with me but I will check with my other friends." Came the answer. Ten minutes later the text came in.<br /><br />"My friend's Dad sent him home before the Friday prayer." Oh God!<br /><br />"It's alright Sweetie, he actually was not home then. He went to Section 2 for prayers. But thank you."<br /><br />A few minutes later, my phone rang.<br /><br />"Puan, saya dengar Luqman (the name his friends call him) belum balik lagi. Saya nak hantar dia balik rumah tengahari tadi tapi dia kata dia nak singgah Section 2 untuk solat Jumaat dengan kawan2 dia. Tak apa Puan, kalau dia belum balik lagi, saya tolong pergi cari dia. (M'am, I heard Luqman is not back yet. I wanted to send him straight home but he said he wanted to perform his Friday prayers with his friends at Section 2. If he is not back yet, let me go and try to find him."<br /><br />"Terimakasih Encik. Tak mengapa. Kami memang nak keluar cari dia sekarang. Memang tadi dia solat Jumaat di Section 2. Abang dia ada jumpa dia. Dia kata nak pergi rumah kawan lepas tu balik rumah pukul 5.30. (Thank you. It's alright. We are going to look for him now. He was in Section 2 for prayers. His brother met him there and he said he will get back around 5.30).<br /><br />"Ok. Kalau apa2 tolong beritahu saya.(ok. If anything, please let me know)".We were already in the car by this time.<br /><br />Having decided that we will break our fast at home and go for dinner after prayers, none of us have anything yet except for a glass of water. Mia and Aqil have grown very quiet wondering what happened to their brother. Danish was somewhat angry judging from his stormy face.<br /><br />"Where shall we go first?" Asked my husband.<br /><br />"Section 2. The house which we sent him for his English project about a month or 2 ago."<br /><br />"Do you know which house?"<br /><br />"Just go to Section 2, first. I vaguely remember. All I know the house is painted green." Somehow, we managed to find the house.<br /><br />"But Luqman was not here today, Auntie." said his friend. "Probably he's at Syed's house."<br /><br />"Do you where Syed's house is Darling?"</div><br /><br />"Yes Auntie." And his father offered to lead the way on his bike and or us to follow him.<br /><br />When we asked Syed, we were told he went to Faiz's house.<br /><br />And Faiz's told us, he left for home almost immediately after breaking his fast. We thanked Irfan's father for his help in our search. We tried a few possible ways to get home. We even went home to check in case he was back but the house was just as we left it. And we went on search for him again. By this time, his friend's mum and dad have been calling us to check if we have found him. They were as worried. Finally it struck us that Hakim hardly missed his Tarawikh. So, we went to the Surau he always go to and asked Danish to check if he was there.<br /><br />By this time my sister called. "Have you found him?"<br /><br />"Not yet. We are checking if he is in the Surau now."<br /><br />"Have you checked if he's at my house?"<br /><br />"We did. He's not there." Well, my sister's house is at Section 2 and since their school is close by, now and again they dropped by at her house. But that day, she was at our Mum's place.<br /><br />To be honest, at those few hours, I have been thinking the worst. I do not know what happened to my child. That Friday was a school holiday but he went to do his English project at Section 13. Earlier, before he left I gave him a mobile phone and some money for top-up and to call us if anything. But he refused the mobile in case he lost it. He promised to call from his friend's mobile. His father jot down the mobile nos. for him to call but we never received any call.<br /><br />After about 10 minutes waiting in the car, from the side mirror I saw him tagging alongside Danish whose face still as stormy.<br /><br />"I kicked him."<br /><br />"Why did you do that?"<br /><br />"I am hungry, we all are and he wasted all of our time!"<br /><br />Hakim didn't say anything. He got into the car quietly.<br /><br />"He is so selfish! You see? He's the only one who have eaten and perform his tarawikh. We didn't."<br /><br />"Why didn't you call? All this can be avoided with a matter of a phone call. Do you know how many people involved in looking for you tonight?" As if on cue my mobile rang. One of his friend's Dad wanted to know if we have found him.<br /><br />"You see? You should have called. How many people have been worrying about you?"<br /><br />"I lost the no. Baba gave me this morning..." Was the only answer we received from him.<br /><br />"That's not a good excuse. If you lost it, you should have done what you told Danish at the Surau. To come back at 5.30. This is the last time you are going to do this. No more excuses of not calling." His father's final words to him that night.<br /><br />When we reached home, I saw a note on our bed :<br /><br />"I will be going to the Surau for Tarawikh. I am sorry for being late. Hakim."<br /><br />Apparently he came back during our search. When we came back in between searching for him, we didn't check in our room. We assumed he was not back only because the Tele was not on and the light in ours or their room not lighted.<br /><br />We learned a lot that night but the most important is we realised that at a point of crisis, we do have friends - people will lend their helping hands which we are so grateful for.<br /><br />Hopefully Hakim learned a lesson too!<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-53576180964493615752013-08-19T10:10:00.003+08:002013-09-13T10:10:52.654+08:00Hmmm....!Hmm... I am hoping that life will be back to normal. I have packed the children to school this morning. Their homework, packed lunch, uniforms nicely ironed, shoes - everything ready for them. Though it is quite difficult to wake Aqil up, we managed to get to school earlier than usual today.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1898.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1898.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />But, as soon as we started walking, Mia said "Ibu, my shoes are tight now. I have to curl my toes to fit in."<br /><br />"Oh Dear... We thought your feet won't grow during the fasting month..."<br /><br />"I know. But it is alright Ibu. I will go through today but can we go and buy a new pair when Baba gets home? It hurts..."<br /><br />"Of course Darling. We do not want you to suffer. I am very sorry you have to go through this today."<br /><br />"It's ok Ibu. Don't worry."<br /><br />I felt guilty. Seriously I did. But Mia being a very thin kid (her cousin even said that the banana tree is "fatter" than her) even though quite tall, I never thought anything will change within these two weeks. how wrong I was.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1901.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1901.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />A different story with Aqil. Well, since we came back, Aqil has been putting on weight which worries us. We do not want him to be obese. But, seeing him still as active (as he is when much thinner) as though his increasing weight is never a bother to him, we are quite relieved. Anyway, we still monitor his weight - as of now, he is still within his age group normal weight. And due to his "continuing growth" we bought him new school shirts and trousers. (Oh my goodness me! He's two sizes bigger from his last!).<br /><br />So, when we reached school this morning, I have to explain to the teachers that Aqil has no school badge and name tag yet due to the new shirt and I thought he is the only one not in complete uniform today. But, as I turned my back to leave, I saw a girl in her baju kurung. I heard one of the teachers asking:<br /><br />"Kenapa pakai baju Raya ni? (Why are you in your Eid attire?)</div><br /><br />I think the teachers must be as dumbfounded as I was when the answer came :<br /><br />"Mak suruh. (My Mum asked me to)".<br /><br />Well, I walked faster not wanting to know how the teachers handle this. I have enough to think of.<br /><br />But I can't help wondering if her Mum forgot to either wash her school uniforms or forgotten to pick them up from the laundry. And that brought me to what happened last night.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1903.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1903.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />At around 9.45 pm Hakim came into our room asking if he could use the laptop. When I asked him why, he said he has to do his homework! I have to bite my tongue in order not to swear! Two whole weeks! And he waited until 9.45 last night to do his homework!<br /><br />I rest my case.<br /><br />Happy Monday everyone :)<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-47162332256039389682013-08-18T09:30:00.001+08:002013-08-18T21:32:53.097+08:00Do I Need to Worry?Aqil came back from school one day announcing that he didn't want his lunch. Knowing his appetite I was wondering the reason for this.<br />
<br />
"Why don't you want your lunch."<br />
<br />
"I have eaten at school Mummy."<br />
<br />
Knowing fully well what I packed him that morning i.e a piece of bread and a drink, which will not go far for him, I am quite curious.<br />
<br />
"I know you did but that couldn't be so filling..."<br />
<br />
"I ate nasi lemak just now."<br />
<br />
God!<br />
<br />
"Where did you get the nasi lemak from?" Started to panic as we did not give him any pocket money.<br />
<br />
"A guy gave me RM2 just now and I bought nasi lemak with the money."<br />
<br />
"Which guy?"<br />
<br />
"I can't remember."<br />
<br />
"Is it big guy? A small one?" And I know I sound very pathetic when I asked him "did he touch you anywhere when he gave you the money??!"<br />
<br />
"No. He just gave me the money."<br />
<br />
Until today I do not know who gave him the money but I finally managed to find out that the "guy" is a Year 2 pupil. Still I was not sure if that's a relief!<br />
<br />
Generally, in the UK this kind of issue is taken very seriously due to shocking news of paedophile cases in schools and nurseries. Such, after years of being made aware of this, and schools in our area not allowing parents taking photos of other people's children without consent from their parents (which led us to not having any photographs of most school activities) and the children are not allowed to leave the school without their parent/s or a designated person picking them up, what happened to Aqil really raised my internal alarm. <br />
<br />
And I was also wondering how much exactly is the pocket money given to a Year 2 pupil if he can "share" it with others?<br />
<br />
Phew! Being a parent is a very tough job.<br />
<br />
Happy Sunday, everyone :)Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-34607111631165655052013-08-16T19:14:00.003+08:002013-09-13T09:49:07.577+08:00Day Trip : Southend-On-Sea & Leigh-On-SeaI know I have neglecting this blog for quite a long time - too much for "having this blog to document (mind you!) our little journey in life"! Bah!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1858.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1858.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />But maybe, just maybe it is still not too late. So I am now planning to sort of set a catching up entries on moments of our lives. It may not be chronological but at least I "capture" that moment as a remembrance for our little band of broods if they care to look back once they leave our nest :D<br /><br />My job in London was a very hectic, demanding one. Many times in order to clear my back log I went to the Office during the weekends not to say putting a very long hour during the weekdays. Still, I was lucky compared to those who're unemployed.<br /><br />Due to this crazy office hours of mine, it is quite difficult to get a long leave and we used to go on impromptu trips. May not be far just to get away of it all.One of these trips was the one when we spent a day at Southend-On-Sea.<br /><br />Unlike when we live in Dundee where River Tay is close by and St Andrews is just around half an our away, Luton is "landlocked". Such, to go to the beach is not something that we can do every weekend but on this particular weekend in summer, after a lot of coaxing from the children, we decided to bring them to Southend-On-Sea.<br /><br />It took us around an hour 40 minutes to reach there. As it is summer, there were a lot of people at almost every corner of the beach waiting for the tide. We decided to explore the area a bit and went to Leigh-on-Sea. It was crowded everywhere such we went to its pretty little town instead. We also went to Old Leigh, a little fishing village known as the cockling capital of the world. It may be tiny but we love the cosiness of the atmosphere. Here, we sampled fresh seafood at one of its many beach stalls lining the Cockle Row - a simple refreshing menu of cockles, crayfish, crab sticks eaten with pepper and vinegar. The waitress was also very kind when she offered us the Thai sauce, perhaps realising since we are Asians so the Thai sauce is more agreeable to us. :D<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1859.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1859.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />After enjoying this simple delicacy, we went back to Southend. The children minus Danish tried swimming but they didn't stay long in the water. Summer it may be, it is still cold underwater. As for us, the parents we are just giving a watchful eyes on them from the safety of the beach. <br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-82981935086284861832013-08-16T12:25:00.001+08:002013-09-14T09:23:18.402+08:00The White Cliffs of Dover<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1742.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1742.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />This is not a new post. It was drafted so... long ago that it was almost forgotten. It was one of our many impromptu trips. It was early in the morning one fine (you see, our good friend the Met Office predicted so!) summer day when we decided to drive southeast.<br />My husband has been meaning to visit Dover ever since we first visited England as a family (with 2 children then) way back in 2003. However, we never did - something always cropped up stopping us from going. Finally, after nearly a decade we made that journey.<br />You may be asking what actually attracted my husband to Dover. It was a postcard really - showing the majestic facade of White Cliffs, strikingly white taken probably from the ferry crossing the Strait of Dover.<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1756.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1756.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The Cliffs are composed mainly of soft, white chalk. They form part of the a english coastline facing the Strait of Dover and France. The location itself is unique as the White Cliffs country tourism website correctly described : where coast meets country, beauty meets history and England meets the Continent.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/13/1690.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/13/s_1690.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='242' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />The Cliffs have great symbolic value in Britain because they face towards the Continental Europe where invasions have historically threatened and against which the cliffs formed a symbolic guard. <br /><br /><br />As it is which formations like the Cliffs they were subjected to weather conditions. In 2001, a large chunk reported to be as big as a football pitch fell into the Channel. A further section also collapsed in March last year and the pic. attached is the White Cliffs that we visited in summer 2012.<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-13427699793300752462013-08-15T19:41:00.001+08:002013-09-13T10:00:29.216+08:00Eid Mubarak<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1879.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1879.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Maybe it is a little late to wish Eid Mubarak to everyone but I've been having problem downloading and saving my drafts... Anyway, since it is still the month of Syawal, with all humbleness, "Eid Mubarak everyone and May it be the best yet - in terms of strengthening relationships, in terms of celebrating closest to Sunnah, in terms of no wastage and with more Iman." Hopefully our celebration is full of Barakah.<br /><br />As this is our first celebration back home in 4 years we sure have a lot to catch up. We have been visiting our relatives from both sides and helping ourselves to the "truly Malaysian" rendang, lemang (we use to have the one boiled in banana leaves and then cooked in the oven), ketupat (no longer the nasi himpit in small plastic packages), kuah kacang (though I must admit my husband's kuah kacang is one of the best :D). Mmmm... Yummy!<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1880.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1880.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />And last night (sort of a highlight to our Eid celebration), we attended the Komuniti Melayu Dundee Malaysia gathering (pic.). Though not everyone turned up (due to not living in the vicinity of Selangor & WP, it is a good turn up though. Most important is that the ukhwah between us in maintained :D<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/12/1881.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/12/s_1881.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />P/s : while we are still in celebration mode, please do not forget to say a prayer for our brothers and sisters who are going through war, abused, hunger and poverty. Let us all pray for peace and harmony, Dear Friends.<br />Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5813955790478174738.post-33846455504378622122013-06-20T22:30:00.000+08:002013-06-21T08:02:22.426+08:00Salam... And Greetings again...and My Apology too...Oh Dear!Oh Dear!Oh Dear!<br />
Ooooooh Dear!<br />
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It's been above a year now since my last entry! And I just have a peep of this sort of 'long forgotten' blog of mine. And there were messages of which I haven't replied to. And I owe an apology - a huge one especially to My Life My World and of course drSam. I am so......... sorry for not responding. As it is, it has been a long time before I stepped into this blog world of mine. You accept my apology? Please? Pretty please...! I hope it is accepted.<br />
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By the way, I am now back in country. Most probably for good but I cannot be too sure yet. Well, it is a mixed feelings actually. It feels good to be in the embrace of loving families but somehow, there is a part that seems, how shall I put it, hmmm.... perhaps... strange. Maybe I am not fully settled yet.<br />
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But, regardless of how I feel, I really am enjoying the food. Oh food.... Glorious food... it has been so good to queue at McDonalds ordering hotdog or chicken without having to check whether it is halal or kosher and having to check which body certified the outlet as halal... it is in itself a pleasure! When my brother-in-law asked Aqil to choose between McDonalds and KFC, the first question that Aqil asked him back was "are they Halal?"<br />
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The children had started schooling. It is a pity for Danish as he has to really work the hardest for PMR. He was quite disheartened to learn that for Kemahiran Hidup, the grades are accumulated from the 1st form - well, I am just hoping he is doing his best. It is most worrying when his Bahasa Malaysia is not as good as when we left 4 years ago - and pity the younger children too as BM is getting so difficult nowadays. Even the terms are not quite so familiar anymore. I just got to know that kosakata is actually vocabulary, frasa is phrase and many more. I won't stand a chance if I were to sit for BM paper nowadays. Pity the children.... Anyway, we managed to send him for tuition for BM - you see, every time he asked me to check his karangan (composition) I feel like "committing suicide" - I am not exaggerating...it is bad. So, it became as a shock to us when he managed an "A" for BM - never mind if it is a weak A for it managed to boost his confidence.<br />
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As for Hakim, he got away with tests/exams as with the new KBSM there is no more PMR, SPM whatsoever. To my embarrassment, I missed the briefing on KBSM last Saturday (well, as I said much2x earlier I am not an early riser and the briefing starts at 8.00 am!). But through my reading, I think it is going to be somewhat similar to the GCSE in the UK though I have yet to see any Bands. Anyway, I will pay a visit to his Dear teacher soon. Somehow I am not quite seeing so free without any thoughts of exams - an evil Mum am I not?<br />
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Mia has a lot of catching up to do. She doesn't like school. She said it is such a bore. Please don't get it wrong. Due to language barrier, she doesn't understand most of the lessons. Unfortunately for her, lessons are all in Bahasa Malaysia now even for Math and Science - no more bilingual option. So, we have been going through sample questions for most lesson with her poor Mummy translating most words. Well, till now we still persevere....<br />
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Quite surprisingly Aqil is doing well. It surprised us when he go through school smoothly. Perhaps it is true what I heard earlier - transition is always easiest for the youngest! Anyway, having said that,next Monday I have to go for his and Mia's Open Day at school. Then I will really know how they are getting along...oh... How I fear what is coming.... Anyway, I gotta be brave..huaaaa...<br />
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Mia's Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03611818639300833898noreply@blogger.com3