Queen

YEAH!! Its Friday!!

2011-04-29T11:17:00.000+08:00

29 April 2011
Hurray, today is Friday – I can have a sleep in tomorrow – Yeah!! So looking forward for that  But first, got to ensure the housework are all done up.
Being a working woman, it is definitely difficult to juggle both work and home. I am the type of person who likes the house to be spick and span and therefore I feel more obliged to ensure the kitchen, lounge are all neat and tidy. It gives a sense of pleasure to see the house sparkling clean.
But there are times that I have to resort to closing both eyes as the fatigue captures me into resting and not bother about the condition of the home. It’s not that my home is in a messy or it is like a hording enclave. It just messy – the cushion not put into place etc.
I am an avid fan of the reality show – Wife Swap – and I wonder if I ever participated in this, how it would turn out to be. I have noticed that the swap arrangement is a total opposite of the actual character of a person, for example, if you are a clean freak, they would match you with an untidy person.
I was thinking what it will be like to be alone… then I realized that all of us are alone in many ways, just think about this, when you think, you’re alone. We are always mentally and emotionally alone.
When we were born, we were born alone and when we die, we die alone. This is reality so we need to learn how to manage the alone time and not let this loneliness control our lives. Some of us are lonely mentally, emotionally and physically. The physical part is the most challenging one as well.
I feel lonely every day, every hour – then I started talking to GOD and imagine that HE is with me all the time. That really help especially when I am worried, anxious, excited about something or a situation. The thought and imagination helps to ease the somewhat lonely feeling.
Nowadays, in the night, I play the radio to keep my mind occupied with songs rather than thinking. Thinking hurts a lot – especially when you start to think of details – so in order for me to keep my sanity, I listen to the radio and hum the tune alone till I fall asleep. I feel so refresh in the morning doing this. It’s a great way to release my tension.
I just got off a health and well being seminar. The emphasis was on healthy living and extending life by staying away from Cholesterol, Diabetes and to eat healthily. 7 serving of vegetables and fruits were recommended. The talked about being a lazy bone person. A 30mins exercise daily will extend your life expectancy. Well, I’m glad I’m not driving and taking the public transport here.. so there is walking and in total it does add to 30mins 
About food, I try to include vegetables (but I’m a vegetarian by choice!) and also some protein via meat or eggs in our daily diet. I need to reduce my intake of peanut butter and jam sandwich (YUMMY!!!) …
Got to go for now.. till I blog next

Back to Routine...

2011-04-28T10:27:00.001+08:00

28 April 2011
The long break last week was most welcoming. Glad I did not sweat a wee bit on work nor did I miss checking my emails which previously with the internet connection, I would be frantically replying to emails that require my actions. Now, I just take it as NOW and deal with what is on hand.
Nick’s army enrollment is the next hurdle to go through. I am confident that with GOD’s blessing it will be ok.
Sydney was a nice holiday – Paddy’s Market reminded me of Sembawang Shopping Centre, especially the food court. It was almost like we were in Singapore. The food variety was similar. The taste was also almost the same. Nick swore that when he misses food in Melbourne, he would want to return to Sydney to sample again.
We had gone to the supposedly “Blue Mountains” – however, we went during the time of the year where there is fog and we can barely see any mountains except the heavy fog. Nonetheless, the journey was enjoying.
This trip, we covered Holbrooke (a town on the way to Sydney), Sydney, Blue Mountains, The Bridge and Sydney’s most famous attraction, the Opera House. We also went to Chinatown. Obviously, as the name says it, there are the most Chinese people you can find. On the way back, we stopped over at Canberra (Capital city of Australia). Visited the Parliament house, the mint factory and wanted to go to the fresh market however, it was already late. We decided to leave and make way to return to Melbourne. We left Sydney at 7am only to reach Melbourne the next day at 2am in the morning. It was a long drive and the long journey was contributed to the stopped over.
The road drive was fabulous if you love sceneries, grasslands, mountains. The view of the sunset was remarkable. Though it was cold, the sun was shining but the sun’s ray was outlasted by the cold wind.
Like they say in Melbourne, you will experience all 4 seasons in more day – how true. You can get the Sun, Rain, Cold and Drizzle all in one.

The daily routine set again on Wednesday, getting up to work and all. The broken momentum was a great welcome and now I have to wait for June to enjoy another long weekend as the next public holiday is scheduled on June 13 (Monday).
This is yet another opportunity to plan a short getaway, let’s see. Hopefully I get used to the weather here.
Till my next blog... cheers!

Breaking the routine

2011-04-21T07:56:00.001+08:00

21 April 2011
Its Thursday here and tomorrow is Good Friday – supposedly a “Sad Friday” for many Christians.
For me, it’s another break from the routine that I’ve forced myself to accept. Sometimes, routine is good and it helps to develop some kind of looking forward than the usual “have to think of what to do next” attitude.
This break is somewhat a long break – I will return to my routine world next Wednesday. I’m not sure what will happen thereafter, if I will be better off than today or worst off, but for now, I will live for NOW and not be bothered to think about tomorrow. If and when it comes, then deal with it.
Things have been moving slowly but surely and I wonder where it will lead me to. I yearn to realize that my life is moving in the correct direction and that things will be ok. As for now, things are OK but not OK as in OK but OK. You know what I mean. I have to continuously focus myself to the NOW moments and not to speculate or procrastinate of what tomorrow will be.
The next hurdle that is coming my way is to ensure my son’s National Service Registrations goes smoothly. For this, I seek guidance from ALMIGHTY that he will be granted extension and will continue to study till YEAR 11. I also pray that I do not have to submit the 75K security bond. As a mother, my only wish is that my son does well and be a socially responsible citizen and be educated enough to be able to live a humble and respectably life. He should be able to manage himself as well as his family and to be able to live life to the fullest.
In my days, my parents did not path my life, it just happened. My parents did not give me the security to ensure I will be living enough, I managed it through my growing years. I guess, it’s the mentality of that generation and the income sustained that things like insurance, property was non-existent are not well advertised. The general public was trying to make ends meet and to ensure there is warm food on the table every night and the children goes to school the next morning. The focus was different.
Today, however, as parents, we ensure we have a proper insurance policies, proper property – at least to be left behind to our kids. I cannot imagine how Nick could afford buying a house in Singapore when he is ready. The property prices are rocketed amount. However, in Australia, if you can afford to buy a land, the land is yours forever. That’s the difference in lifestyle. To buy land in Singapore for commoners like us is an unheard thing.
About job, today, there is no such thing as job security. It does not mean that if you work in a large organization, you are employed and secured for life; it would have been so, probably 20 years ago. However, now, large organization is always looking for ways for cost cutting and one good way to cut cost is to make you do 3 peoples’ job and cut the wages off 2 people through a employee reduction process or better known as the dreaded word – Retrenched. So, if you’re the “lucky” one who lands up doing 3 peoples job, the clock will start to tick to count your tolerance level. Till you give up, you quit, that’s cost savings for the company as well, as they can hire a new bloke, pay him/her a miserable starting pay and make him/her work the 3 people’s job. I read an article that encourages us to be employable rather than looking for a secured job. If you do well in the organization you work in, you are recognized only in that company... Imagine if you start looking for another job, what you have done are merely words – it does not mean anything to a new company. Probably the experience counts and they yet to see your deliverables... But your achievements stay with you only. What you have done would probably be applicable to that organization you’ve worked for. It may not be viewed the same in a different organization. So be prepared to have an open mind and explore and learn as you move along.
I’m off to Sydney tomorrow to see what Sydney is all about….
Cheers!

Lost but Found

2011-04-21T07:55:00.000+08:00

20 April 2011
Today, the power of internet proof yet again how you can unite with long lost friends. A simple Google search and I found a friend whom I have lost touch for many years now. She and her family is residing in San Diego – USA. I called the number appeared on the net and got her sister-in-law and her SIL provided me with her home number…. I called and spoke to her husband and it was really a good feeling. What’s so special about this relationship – I was their witness for their marriage registration that was held in Singapore. We exchanged emails and now we can be connected yet again. Isn’t this just amazing.
Alright, yes, I was “free” at work so I did a search and the rest….
I bet today will be a day of thoughts, reliving the many years moments again… The fuss about finding the lost one is fantastic.

Another Day in April 2011

2011-04-20T12:06:00.000+08:00

19 April 2011
Today is a beautiful day, the cold wind was blowing on my face, touching my eyes.. The feeling was nice – cold.
Yes, that’s how it has been here – COLD. The weather off course! It’s a sharp different from the hot and humid –sticky weather back in Singapore. I reckon the air is cleaner here though.
I’m in a routine now, getting up at 6am and leaving home at 6:30am, catching the 6:45am train and travelling from North to East and then taking a bus to reach office just before 8:30am. This is a every week day routine – 2 solid hours to work and 2 hours back. Sometimes I pondered if this is all worthwhile. The scarify I make – what will it yield to? I could go back being tired and sick of life – practically spending 20hrs each week on public transport.
You may say – why don’t you drive – well, driving is a whole new story here. For once, getting back home in a car can be so hassle and longer that I rather take the bus or train home. I know for sure, I don’t have to be bothered about the road conditions.
So far, the people here are friendly and I really mean it. At least you get greeted – How are you? How was your day? – at shops, malls, cashiers, office, train stations etc.. It weird if you do you responds. Responses are usually – Good, and you? Not bad, what about you? –
Unlike in Singapore, everyone is self centric; it’s hard to get someone to greet you good morning etc. Let alone your kids, my son doesn’t greet me in the mornings... He wakes up and would ask – ‘What’s for breakfast?” or “Make me coffee.”
Guess, over here, the parents and child relation, as far as I have seen, is on a different level, one that is friendly, warm and educated. The children are confident here to even share their thoughts on any topics, professionally and eloquently.
At work, the culture here is totally different, there are more man than ladies – so somewhat I feel a little odd here. People drive to work, I am the only one (probably) that walks to the lonely bus stop and wait for the bus patiently. The good things are that the busses have timing, so you know how long you have to wait. Occasionally, it gets screwed but well, what doesn’t.
The phase is slow, unlike in Singapore; the “kiasu” syndrome is visible. Here, everything is La-di-da.. Slow and steady... You will find the roads jammed pack starting from 4pm onwards as all wants to get home fast.
Its autumn now and the nights are longer compared to last month when it was supposedly summer. The sun light is visible even at 8pm at night. We had longer days than night.

Year 2010

2011-04-19T07:48:00.001+08:00

My goodness, it’s been exactly 2 years to realize my blog is still surviving and actually helped a dear friend to recover a lost item.
I received a face book message from a good friend – Joyce (read about her in my earlier blogs) that she had lost her daughter’s Jorryn’s passport and could not locate it. She had accidentally left it at a Pancake Parlor. The owner of the parlor actually did a Google search and found them on my blog and the rest is history..
Now, the good thing is that my blog is alive and kicking..and it did come to good use .. Hahaha..
What has happened since my last blog – so much.. Life is full of surprises, some wanted and some unwanted and not desired at all. Looking back, I had the most “eventful” year – 2010. A year that brought me a lot of anxiety, a whole load of tears… it’s a year that I am glad it’s gone. 2010 is history.
The major change is that I have relocated to Australia and it’s been 4 months here.. the common questions ask is if I missed Singapore – my answer to that question is “No”… ask me if I like Australia – my answer is “I don’t know yet”.. It’s too soon to make any judgment.
Why I don’t miss Singapore? I feel that everything is gone, and it’s gone forever, if I were to miss Singapore, it’s those special people who have connected me and assured me that friendship is still important and part of this life I am living.
What lingers in my mind is – “Is blood thicker than water?” – To me, the water has quenched my thirst when I needed it most. Year 2010 was the year where the lightning struck me not once but several time and it left me a bitter phase again. In situation like this, you just can’t forget the episodes left behind and in your daily living, it crosses your mind to remind you of where you have been and what you ought to do to move ahead in live.. It’s painful but it has happened and it has left a scare – so deep that it will just be there.
In January, joined a new company which promises lots of “excitement” – a job that will take me from day to night…
Nick left for Australia to start year 10. This is the very first time in my life that I am left alone – without my husband and my son. Yes, it was my decision, like how it was put to me.. I wanted all these.. to be alone etc.. Hahaha...That was a start of everything yet to come..
In February – had a misunderstanding with my sister over my mother and all I was asking is to keep her company since I will be working through the CNY period. The result, communications break down and I was made to feel that I have “chased” her out of my house.
In March – I dedicated my life to my work, working almost every day including weekends so I don’t think of anything else and just focus on my work.
In April – an episode over face book from some idiot of was verbally abusing me on the wall – so much for family support (my SIL allowed it to be posted as she was afraid that removing the post will cause the *bitch* to start attacking her!!) The “bitch” is my husband’s cousin who lives in the USA and was probably bored with her multiple broken marriages and was trying to be funny.
In May 2010, I had severe migraine attack, and it was Mr. Foong’s family and Melody who was by my side to bring me to the hospital and discharge me out of the hospital. I never would want to have a repeat attack, it was horrible. I couldn’t focus, couldn’t sleep, and well practically felt like I was dead but alive. The injection that was given by doctor Maryann Phipps left a swollen arm and blue black sign... it was sign for the next douse of experience…yet to come…
Shortly after the migraine attack, I felt a sudden breathlessness and was frantically catching my breath even walking a few steps. I constantly felt there were air bubbles on my chest and was trying hard to burp them all out. Least that I know, the breathlessness got worst and it took me 30mins to climb a flight of steps to my 3rd floor apartment when it would have taken me less than 2 minutes (leisurely!)
On Saturday, June 5, I was out for lunch with my office colleague and felt like life was ending... I had to walk and it was almost impossible... I managed to take a taxi back and the minute I hopped onto the taxi, the taxi driver made a comment and ask if I was having an Asthma attack to which I replied “No.”. The taxi driver requested me to relax and that he will bring me home safely. The minute I reached the 3 floor of my apartment, I opened the door and in the remaining breathe I had, walked to the sofa and sat there for hours.
On Sunday, I definitely knew something was wrong and told myself that I had to bring myself to the hospital again. I survived Sunday and had requested my niece Kapila to accompany me to the hospital on Monday. She agreed.
On Monday – 7th June – a day that I will never forget – I got up and took more than usual to get ready, trying hard to breathe. Took a taxi and picked up Kapila and headed to Mount Alvernia hospital to see the migraine doctor (My own assessment is that I was probably having reaction to the migraine medication that he had prescribe).
Upon seeing me walk into his office, Dr Siow immediately inform me that I will have to be admitted to have a further diagnosis on the breathlessness that I am experiencing. I reluctantly agreed.
The next events that followed were ones that I will never ever want to experience again – it was total nightmare to be wheeled to the basement for checks after checks, heart, lungs, legs, shoulder.. The diagnosis was that I had blood clogs on my lungs and that was due to a clog on my left leg – this symptom is Deep Vein Thrombosis also known as DVT.
How on earth did I get DVT? DVT usually occurs to people who travels frequently and have been seated for long hours and that causes the blood clogs.
On Monday night, I was in trauma and the doctor (lung specialist, Dr Jim) had instructed that I was to be admitted in Intensive Care as my pulse rate went up and I had to be monitored closely. He had requested for my mobile phone and the number to reach my husband – who has been living in Australia for 2 years now and my son is with him.
He called Clarence to inform on my condition and advice him to return to Singapore with Nick as my situation has become critical.
I was admitted on Monday morning, went on critical condition on Monday night, was in ICU till Thursday morning and discharged to the normal ward on Thursday.
Clarence arrived on Saturday early hours and was in the hospital on Saturday noon together with Nick.
How did I survive this ordeal? One thing for sure, it’s because of kind and good friends and the encouragements that I received. I was going through depression – Subaash (Abira’s husband) was there, during lunch, he would bring lunch for me and even took the trouble to fit me and constantly reminding me to be positive and see situation positively. Abira could not come as she was in her early stages of pregnancy.
Next was my mother, she managed to visit a couple of times as she is dependent on others to bring her to see me.
Then the whole lots of friends who came rushing to the hospital – Angeline, Abira, Subaash, Siew, her hubby and kid, Siti, her hubby and kid, Kaushalya, Hainah, Rohani, Jamaliah, Cik Mohd, Isa, Azizah, Melody, Jennie, Cynthia, Melvin, Barbara, Chitra…
These were the people by my side - encouraging me to live my life….
That was a whole of activities that kept me occupied at least for the first 6months of Year 2010. If you think that was bad... I have this to say... It goes on and on and on...

In July, had to do recovery work in the office…. While being on medical leave in June to recuperate, the office was in a mess, the team had made a couple of mistakes (all fundamental) and customer was jumping at every opportunity. So while I was catching my breath, I had to also catch up with the work and get things sorted and straighten up. It was not easy, especially when we had to conduct refresher. This means that my weekends are gone as I need the team to be back to do training.
I offered to do the trainings at the comfort of my house so that I can avoid travelling and don’t exert myself. Luckily I had good team leads who helped me organized this and the trainings was done in July and August time frame while also spending late hours straightening the team again. Whilst at this, I decided that I had to leave Singapore and be with my family. So that was the starts of letting my boss know my decision and getting him to find a replacement.
So that was in September and I was starting to count down on the return of my son for his holidays – Melvin can vouch for the anxiety I had counting down week after week. It was no fun living alone. But lucky for me, I had the company of Vanessa and Mallorine over most of the weekends. They would call me whenever there is some events. I started helping Mal out at Church on 2 Sundays per month. This occupied me as well as ensuring me that I balance my work life.
Then came Diwali – the festival of lights, this is the day which I will not forgot for the hurt is too much to bear.. I shall not dwell on what happen but I survived this day and managed to move on.
Then came the time to get my house sorted and taken by my husband, I reluctantly agreed to allow his choice of agent to deal with the rental process of my flat. That was a nightmare!! The negativities were really unbearable! I have never met anyone so negative in all ways.. Saying that my expectations were high and that the location was bad and that it could only be rented to workers for the price I’m asking.
Then Angela came to the rescue. She managed to advertise and get the right rental for me. And for that, I had to pay agent fee to the other agent. As a friend to Angela, (she was my former school mate), I did my part of giving her an agent fee as I felt that it was only right, she is also working to make ends meet.
Now, most of the things were settling and I was really looking forward to leave Singapore and to be with my family. Both husband and son were in Singapore and we were busy packing.. Then came the biggest shock of my life – 1st January 2011 – I shan’t share this here as the hurt is, again, unbearable.
I just want to end my blog for now, saying that though 2010 was another worst / bad year of my life, I realized who are the people that are with me, standing next to me when I was in crisis, when I was crying for help – emotional help. They were there, comforting me and consoling me.
I’ve moved on and have learn to take NOW for now and not to be bother with anything else. To me, there are those who treat you as non-existent, it’s ok. If I exist in your life, I exist, if not, I’m probably better off not being there.
These are the people, who have made changes to my life,
Husband – for all the things you have done – I’m changed now after learning the hard way. Thanks! God will forgive and forget.
My son – to keep yearning for the day that you realized the magnitude for what I have done and am doing for your success and your future. I hope all ends well.
Mother – to endure the poor transition that could have been done nicely if only people understood that others need to live their life as well. I’m sorry to have put you through this, it was a choice of being there for you or to be there for Nick – I, being a mother myself, had to ensure my son life is taken care of. After all, he has many years of his life left to live.. On the bright note, you are living with your own blood, your own daughter. As your daughter, I have done what I could to provide you with the best all these years, I continue in whatever I could for you.
To all my friends, especially, Abira, Subaash, Melvin, Joyce, Barbara, Jennie, Cynthia, Angeline, Melody, Ai Lin, Chitra, THANK YOU for being there.. I see light now.
I’ll blog more on other aspect of life…

Missing from blogging

2009-04-18T11:31:00.002+08:00

Its been a several months since my last blog - could it be that I ran out of ideas on what to blog or my super busy schedule at work brought blogging to a stop? Dunno...

Anyway.. life and work has been very exciting *lol - not sure if this is the right word to use - nevertheless ...

Work is piling - as usual.. changed boss again - and this time - the worst one I ever had - sometime you really wonder how can such a corporate organization have such a person working who is paid like probably a 5 digit salary! Damn! He can't even compose a simple email - full of grammatical error, spelling sucks and there is no punctuation! Got the guts to ask me to vet his presentation!

And the funny part is, he managed to hire a "secretary" who does all the back end stuffs for him - presentations, org charts... geez..i really wonder how this could have happened. The so called "secretary" is not announced in the org chart as a "secretary" - announced as ops manager - but doing all the stuff that he ought to be doing - strategical planning, managerial support etc.. sometimes i wonder, which is my boss ???

So, if you have a sickening superior - the sums adds up to - lack of morale support - lack of strategical support- everyone is being lead by the "blind"... so, work is damn interesting!

I still get up in the morning and make my way to office and get my work done - luckily I have my senses and able to make sound judgement to deliver my responsibilities.

Life - also another interesting area - just waiting patiently to get things to fall into place - and see where it leads to next.

Praying hard - very hard - that the economic crises get over soon and that the job market becomes more lucrative and able to switch to another career - I want a job that is routine and allows me to have a peace of mind when I'm at home - enough of corporate politics and all the dirty agendas, red tapes etc- I just want to come home to my family and be with my family.

That's all for now.. Cheers!

Hello 2009

2008-12-31T21:12:00.004+08:00

2008 - good bye.. welcome 2009.

My 2008 ends with lots of memories - bitter, sweet and fulfilling. No regrets and no lost.
I look forward for 2009 and what it has installed for me personally.

I live my life to the fullest and will accept what is ahead of me. That is my new year resolution.

I still have my family, my job and my sanity and future plans :)

To all my fellow blogger, Goodbye 2008 and welcome 2009 :)

Singapore turns 43!

2008-08-08T20:14:00.005+08:00

090808 - Singapore turns 43 years old! Time flies.... each time when we celebrate National Day, the memory that I have the most was when Singapore was 25 years old - that's was in 1990.

I recalled when Singapore was 25 years old, we had the Madame Tussaud Museum at World Trade Center Exhibition Hall.

My family and I had photo taken with various celebrities and dignitaries of the world. Those days there were only still cameras.

Those days during National Day, part of the celebration was Swing Singapore - street party along Orchard Road and several other locations.

As we celebrate our Nation achievements for 43 years and look forward for many more achievements to come, we take a moment to look back what we have achieve in our life's.. humble as it may be. .it is ours to be proud of and celebrate!

Happy National Day to all Fellow Singaporean!

Tribute: Geraldine Thumboo

2008-08-08T19:12:00.004+08:00

The power of Internet - I found my lost friend who has left Singapore more than 13 years ago. She is now with her husband - Thomas Thumboo in Sydney. They have established themselves there and they like the life there.

We used to work in the same company- that was back about 19 - 20 years ago. We used to go for movies on Saturdays after work and hang a lot with our groups of friends - going for the Swing Singapore - co-incidentally that used to happen on National Day !
Somehow we lost touch after we got married, seriously can't remember how we lost touch. The only memory was that both Hubs and I visited her in her Hougang flat and that was it.

I found Geraldine doing a search on Facebook and found only one match.. wrote to her and VIOLA - it was indeed my long lost friend. We have sync up on Yahoo and would chat often to catch up.

I hope to see her soon :)

To all parents with teenagers.. Read this

2008-07-16T17:20:00.003+08:00

Got this via email and it is so true.. Sharing this with everyone out there..
=============================================================
I just realized that while children are dogs -- loyal and
affectionate -- teenagers are cats. It's so easy to be a dog
owner. You feed it, train it, boss it around. It puts its head on
your knee and gazes at you as if you were a Rembrandt painting.
It bounds indoors with enthusiasm when you call it.

Then around age 13, your adoring little puppy turns into a big
old cat. When you tell it to come inside, it looks amazed, as if
wondering who died and made you emperor. Instead of dogging your
doorsteps, it disappears. You won't see it again until it gets
hungry -- then it pauses on its sprint through the kitchen long
enough to turn its nose up at whatever you're serving. When you
reach out to ruffle its head, in that old affectionate gesture,
it twists away from you, then gives you a blank stare, as if
trying to remember where it has seen you before.

You, not realizing that the dog is now a cat, think something
must be desperately wrong with it. It seems so antisocial, so
distant, sort of depressed. It won't go on family outings.

Since you're the one who raised it, taught it to fetch and stay
and sit on command, you assume that you did something wrong.
Flooded with guilt and fear, you redouble your efforts to make
your pet behave.

Only now you're dealing with a cat, so everything that worked
before now produces the opposite of the desired result. Call it,
and it runs away. Tell it to sit, and it jumps on the counter.
The more you go toward it, wringing your hands, the more it moves
away.

Instead of continuing to act like a dog owner, you can learn to
behave like a cat owner. Put a dish of food near the door, and
let it come to you. But remember that a cat needs your help and
your affection too. Sit still, and it will come, seeking that
warm, comforting lap it has not entirely forgotten. Be there to
open the door for it.

One day your grown-up child will walk into the kitchen, give you
a big kiss and say, "You've been on your feet all day. Let me get
those dishes for you."

Then you'll realize your cat is a dog again.
=============================================================

Tribute: Chitra and Barbara

2008-07-16T12:28:00.005+08:00

Both Chitra and Barbara were short time colleagues and have been long time friends since... heres' a tribute to both ladies...What is common about us, all 3 of us have a son each :)

K Chitra

I met Chitra when I was employed as a Marketing Representative with a local company - Panicker and Dang. This was in year 1995. I was there only for 1 year as we found out that the partners - Husband and wife team - declared themselves bankrupt and defaulted on our CPF payments. Chitra was lucky as she was employed by the older brother under another company name and due to his status in the entertainment industry, she had her CPF fully paid. We became good friends and through years, the friendship grew stronger. We don't meet each other so often, in fact, we rarely meet but we do make a point to talk on the phone and enquiry on each other, how we are doing etc. Chitra has a son , Navvin and both Nick and Navvin when together, they can clique. Its been more than 10years we have been friends now.. Thank GOD I found you :)

Barbara Lee (aka Babe)

This is the most unique friendship ever. I met Babe when I was working with ODS - Oriental Data System. Babe have been there and is still there. The company is now known as JOS Jardine. This was in year 1996 soon after I left P&D. I was in ODS for merely 3months and we just click. Most of the people who see us together would think we are sisters. (I think we are very far apart - Babe is very beautiful - inside and out :).

If you want to know what a woman's strength is, you have to meet up with Babe. She is currently going through a situation where only when you are in her shoes would you understand the emotional turmoil. Babe has been married for more than 20 years and have a son of 11 years old - Brandon. Her husband, Andrew, was recently diagnosed with diabetes have due to that, he has been feeling weak thus he is unable to work. Babe was sharing that there was this day when she returned from to find him still sleeping and he did not realised it himself. On Mondays' day, I got a call from Babe. I thought she wanted to wish me but instead I could hear the crack in her voice when she told me that Andrew is in hospital and in coma. All I could tell her was to wait for me where ever she is and I will come there quickly. Hubby and I left home within 30mins to meet her. Andrew was out on the Friday to meet some of his friends. It has been a long time since he was out and it was good for him to get some fresh air. What happen next was - Andrew was with his friend and some argument started. I believed in a fit of anger, Andrew collapse and next thing he was rushed to hospital and was in a state of coma as the vein on his brain burst. I could only stand by next to Babe and give her the support she needed. Only after several weeks, Andrew managed to open his eyes. He is now in a better state and have been transferred to the normal ward. Though it is a long journey ahead, Andrew is recovering slowly but surely.

Babe, what I admire you is that though you are going through so much yet, you are always with a smile. Your smile lightens everyone around you. Your laughter helps others to ease the pain. You are certainly an inspiration to me. I am sure GOD is watching and will only do the best for both Brandon and you. Love you lots Babe!

Tribute: Angeline Law aka Devil's Angel

2008-07-02T20:01:00.002+08:00

I met Angel in year 2003 sometime in May. She was the Team Lead of a Global Customer where I was deployed to manage the operations. We click instantly - work wise, we were very consistent, professional and on time. Her support to get me up to speed was instrumental in the success of the desk. I recalled in the first 1:1 I had with her, I set this rule that we should trash out should be there any unhappiness with anything that crosses our path. We should not work in silo but as a team and compliment each other. After all, in my absence, she was my backup. And from my years of working and observing from others, one thing for sure, when you treat people with respect, not only they go an extra mile for you but they will regard you well and treat you with the same level of respect. Thank God with her to compliment, we crossed several hurdles without stress. This is what I call TEAMWORK!

When we think back now, we had so many wonderful memories in this desk. So many funny moments that till now, we talk about. The exposure to the Global team allowed both of us to mature our organizational skills. We were lucky that we had a very supportive client director who supported us from Colorado Springs.

When I was requested by management to "rescue another burning fire", naturally, Angeline got promoted and she maintained the level of service and both customer and client director was very happy. We move on from being colleagues to friends..

Years gone by, just until last Monday, Angeline used to sit next to me and compliment me in managing Transition while I lead in the operation. Angeline got an offer which she could not resist and her last day with the organization was on Monday.

Angel was someone whom I can share my office frustrations. I've seen Angel 'grow" from a simple giggly girl to a mother and to a woman who will talk serious when she has to. One conversation I had with her recently which she made a comment, "Rani, today what I said to you, I feel so matured, I am so proud of myself". Angel, I am proud of you too!

Though she is not physically there with all the stuff toys on the desk, her pillow on her lap, crossed leg sitting on the office chair, always in PINK, we still keep in touch. She has touched my life and I value her friendship. Thank Angel!!

Tribute: Melvin Tan and Joyce San Miguel

2008-06-20T23:03:00.002+08:00

I had written about Melvin in one of my blogs. Melvin and I have been colleagues for well, at least the past 7 ~ 8 years.

He joined in year 2000 and few days later Joyce join as well. The 3 of us were working very closely as I was managing a team of Technical Specialist for the Commercial Sector and Melvin was managing a team of Technical Specialist for the Consumer Sector. Joyce was the CS Executive who handles all escalation. And the 3 of us were a perfect team, working closely and resolving most issues within our empowerment.

During this time, there was a very down time I experienced in my life and the 2 of them were with me 100% of the time giving me not only moral support, but mental support. Being with me, writing the cards of encouragement. They were just there physically and mentally with me while I go the most horrible moment in my life.

I recovered from the dark days and am very thankful to both Melvin and Joyce - as colleague, they have gone beyond friend to be with me and I am always thankful to the 2 of you.

In year 2003, Mel left the organization and Joyce left too, they went their separate ways. We still kept in touch - via email mainly.

Joyce got married in year 2004 and both Mel and I was invited - however Mel could not attend, I had gone with Hubby and Joyce's friend to Manila. It was the most beautiful wedding, all nicely co-ordinated. I had the privilege to be her sponsor and since then, Joyce addresses me as her "Ninang" (Godma to her kids).

Joyce is happily married and living in the Netherlands with her husband - Jeroen and kids - Jerryc and Jorryn.

Mel ventured overseas and came back. I was still intact with the same organization and had been posted to an account which had some issues - was posted there to do so call - enhancement activities - nice word yah! It was actually doing "damage control"! - we had a vacancy for a reporting specialist and Mel joined us and up till now, he is with this account. I have since moved on to another role.

Though we are in the same office, we hardly meet, hardly talk in person.. but that special something is there keeping our friendship alive.

Mel, Joyce, thanks for everything. Love you lots!

Cheers!

Tribute - My Friends who have inspired me one way or another

2008-06-20T16:49:00.005+08:00

Last night I was deep in thoughts (again).. just could not sleep.. Was thinking of so many things that is happening now.. I diverted my thoughts to the list of friends I have and decided that I should blog about them, what they have done to inspire me and what I have learnt from them. Firstly, I want to list their names.. No order of preference..just random as they come to my mind..

1) Melvin Tan
2) Joyce San Miguel
3) Angeline Law
4) Chitra
5) Barbara Lee
6) Geraldine Thumboo (I found her recently after so many years - the power of the net!)
7) Melody Wee
8) Milind and Deepa
9) Komal

These are the people whom some of them I hardly converse but they have a place in my heart. A genuine friend whom from their gesture has shown me what friends are all about.. what Friendship can do, the listening ears, the gentle words...

Friends, my tribute to you.. Thanks for being there and being my friend. I will be blogging about you in the coming blogs... Cheers!

Nick's India Trip

2008-06-14T17:11:00.005+08:00

Pics taken by Nick when he was in village. These flowers are grown in my cousin Nandu's place.
Nice shot!

This very adorable baby is my cousin's Ketan's son. Nick had gone to Mumbai with Mum last month for 20 days and he enjoyed every single day he was there. So many uncles and auntys showering love to him.

This is my cousin Mandar and his son- Harsh.

My cousin Kishor and his family, wife, Manali and kids - Yash and Riya :)

Marathi Movie

2008-06-13T22:19:00.002+08:00

Its been a long time since I last blog. Today, I am inspired after receiving an sms from a friend from overseas who after a long long time, he decided that he should start to blog about his career.

This friend of mine is no other than Mr Milind Gawali - he has been in the film industry for many years and now he is acting mainly in Marathi Movies.

Read his blog for more information : http://milindgawali-actor.blogspot.com/

Marathi is the main language of Maharastra where my parents are originally from.

Milind, if you are reading this, Well done! Do continue to write about your movies and the character your play. We keep in touch.

Cheers!

Taxi Driver's Story - What an experience!

2008-05-08T22:22:00.002+08:00

This evening, I took a Premier taxi from Suntec to home. While on the way, the taxi driver uncle started a conversation.

He was sharing about language, his pronunciations etc. Then he jumped and said, "Miss, I tell you this, you hear you sure fed-up one!".

He narrated the incident and I was determine to pen this down on my blog. This is what happen.

As a taxi driver, he often find things left behind. And one such item were wallets with personal identifications, money, credit cards etc. He said so far, he had found a total of 4 wallets left behind in his taxi. As an honest and law abiding citizen, the last found brought him to the police post near his place. He arrived at the station at about 10plus, stepped in to where an officer was sitting, he handed the wallet and his IC and informed the office that he had found it in his taxi and that he wants to leave his details so that if they need more information, he will be glad to help.

The office explained to him that the process for such lost and found has changed and that they need to key in the items in the computer. Uncle taxi driver said that he was rather exhausted and wanted to head home to rest but the officer insisted that he should wait. He told the officer that he is leaving his address (he is staying near the police post) and his number and they could contact him if they need him. The office again insisted that he should wait. So, without wanting to create an scene, he sat down and waited.

And waiting was what happen, 1 hour later, he approach the officer again, the officer told him that the system hung and requested him to wait for about 10mins. The taxi uncle sat down again. 1hour passed, he is into the 2nd hour now.. he approached the officer again, he was told the same thing. Uncle was already frustrated, tired and sleepy but still thought that he should remain cool so he sat down yet again.

What he heard next got him totally pissed. The officer answered a call and spoke to someone from the other side and the conversation was to book the taxi that was park outside the police post. He stepped out to see 2 officer issuing a summon on his taxi.

Uncle Taxi driver got really upset and he approach the officer and was very pissed, he told the officer, - "you are educated, I am only being an honest citizen to return the wallet and you made me wait for 2hours now saying the computer hang and now you want to saman me because my taxi park outside, You siow is it? like that for what I want to be good? Uncle cannot speak English well, but I know what is flexible!"

The commotion alerted a senior officer and he stepped out and ask the uncle what was going on? The uncle explained and the Snr Officer took out a piece of paper, wrote something on it, took down uncle's mobile number, got his signature. Apologized to him and inform him that he can leave. By the time the whole episode ended, 3hours has lapsed.

I asked uncle that he should call the press or get someone to write to Forum and give his feedback. This is totally nuisance! Uncle said that he does not want to be backfired and choose to just move on.

I don't know what else to say - my thoughts were on "Toilet Break" incident starring Mas Selamat who was made famous instantly (Faster than any Hollywood actors!)

Officially Permanent Resident of Australia

2008-04-26T12:43:00.002+08:00

After a good 2.5years of wait, we finally got our approval and we are now officially permanent resident of Australia.

We are now in phase II of working towards our goal in life. We are required to make our first entry to Australia soon. So, it's another vacation time for me.

We will go through a momentary separation while Hubby get settled there before we permanently set foot there. Uprooting? Not at the moment, there is a period that we have discussed where we will have to determine if that is eventually the place we will be settling down.

Why Australia? The choices we had were Canada and Australia and after much discussion, Australia is still close to Singapore.

In life, we have to get going and explore opportunities beyond our comfort zone. And this is probably a destination that was meant to be and we'll see how it work out there.

It will be an exciting journey especially so since there is no one there that we could get help from. We're all geared up to face this excitement and challenges.

We need to find a place to live, school to enrol our son, jobs, basically starting all over again. Lets see where destination brings us and what we achieve out from this.

Heard from blogs and forum, that getting a place is the most challenging since landlords will want to know the credit history of a particular person. For us, since we are new comers, we are starting from scratch.. We hope that we will overcome this hurdle and get something work out. Anyone has any reference that can help?

If there's anyone who is interested to know the process that we had taken for this migration, feel free to pm me, I will only be glad to share.

Wish me luck!

There is someone made for everyone or is there?

2008-03-25T22:33:00.003+08:00

I met a long time guy friend in a relative wedding recently. We used to be very good friends... Over time, I got married, changed jobs and we lost touch.

I found out yesterday after a long discussion on msn - catching up on old times, that he is still contemplating marriage - to marry means disappointing his family (his parents) - not to marry, means disappointing his love.

He is at the stage of what should he do? The decision he takes cannot be balance and in one way or another, there will be people whom he'll hurt. This is an issue of love vs religion.

My advise to him is to follow his heart.. and that is the problem he has....I hope he has the strength to face whatever decisions he makes..

God bless! I will support whatever decisions you make friend :)

Are you there yet?

2008-03-19T21:57:00.002+08:00

Today I've decided to blog about people - people in general. This topic has been coming up lately in many conversations, blogs. These are interesting to know. Please note that I am not making any reference to anyone in particular, I am sure at any point of our lives, we have met, or have been living, or working, or communicating, ignoring etc with these types of characters.. here's my list..I am not perfect either but these are the list which I try to make an effort to refrain from being labelled as one.

First - "the we owe you for life type of characters"
No explanation needed, well.. we need to realise that we owe no human our sanity. We work hard and play hard and each individual have our choices to make. So, if you know someone who behaves like this.. just ignore.. not worth the time and effort to dwell further. Just thank GOD that you have the senses to move on with your life.

Second - "Oh, I am very busy, got my own things to do"
This are the self centered characters, their world revolves around them and they only see themselves as being the most busy people in the whole wide world. These are the people whom you should not invite for any occasion as the excuse is always the same.. if invitation is unavoidable.. remember to include the statement "I know you are busy, if you can come, please do." - this way, you don't have to listen to their "busy" stories.

Third - "When I need you, I call you.. Else, you are long lost forgotten."
This is the most classic of all. It happens to everyone and we always get emails to remind us to keep in touch with our loves one and not to keep things for tomorrow. As long as we are alive, we need to set aside time for the people we care. Lesson, do not cry over spilled milk! Its too late.

Fourth - "The spice up the story adding more saucy details"
I am sure each of us have come across such characters, I have. They are the once who often add spice and make an innocent situation a 911 event! All blown out of proportion. The worst is that these characters often causes stirs in any relationship and the best is that they never admit that they are at fault. Rather, they view the others at fault. Keep away and you'll be so much more happier without these types of spices in your life.

Fifth - "The boastful - I've only want and have the best - material world"
Wake up to reality if you're not Paris Hilton. Well... then again, Paris could not accept reality..

Feel free to comments.. all your views will be strictly treated as your views and no labelled attached :)

Season for sickness

2008-03-05T12:50:00.002+08:00

Firstly my sincere apology to some who are probably expecting replies from me. My entire family have been sick, sick and sick..

It all started on 18th Feb, husband was given 2 days MC due to high fever and cough. It quickly spread to me and I was down with high fever from Friday onwards. To make matters worst, I had visitors - my uncle and aunt came to Singapore.

So, in between popping panadol and taking non-drowsy cough mixture, had to bring them out for shopping. Luckily, my aunt came with a ready list and it was easy to shop.

By Friday, I was totally out of action. Having fever as high as 39.1 degree. I had to go see the doctor. Was given medical leave on Friday and ask to rest for the weekend. My uncle and aunt left on Friday to another relatives place.

I was in bed most of Friday - hoping very hard to quickly recover. This time, with the high fever and the body ache, it was really bad. The temperature subsided on Saturday and I felt so much better.

However, Nick came home after tuition and looks so very very sick. He was so weak. All he did when he reached home was to lay on the sofa. Took his temperature and it was 38 degree. Husband brought him to Raffles Medical. Nick took his medicine and knocked out.

He was so fresh on Sunday but not me. I had caught his flu - I guess so - couldn't send my uncle and aunt off ! Just could not get out of bed. Took my temperature, 39 degree. Felt cold and hot almost the whole day. Since I still had my medication, diligently took them.

On Monday, temperature did not subside.. visited the doctor again, and this time, recommended to take a blood test as well as chest x-ray since it's been a couple of days with fever. Had to make my way to Sata - luckily near by. The queue was killing - when we reached there, took the number 82 and they were serving number 50. I told husband to walk over to the counter and ask if we can jump queue as all I wanted to do is head home and be in the comfort of my home.

Thanks to the nurse, she allowed us and within 20mins, I was out of Sata. Thank you!!

The next day, the doctor called me and informed that there I am cleared - blood test and chest x-ray results were normal. By then, my fever also subsided. Though was given 3 days of MC, I returned to work quickly - did not want to feel sick at home.

I am still coughing and recovering but feel so so much better. .almost new again! Looking so much forward for this weekend - finally can go out.

Oh yes.. my mum had to stay put in her room most of the time.. Thank to GOD, she only had slight running nose only.

MIA on Blog

2008-02-19T20:49:00.002+08:00

Yes.. its been a hectic 1.5months..meetings after meetings.. back to back.. starting as early as 9am. It totally different experience from the 9months of responsibility in the IT world.

Being in operations, you need to be on top of the situation, thinking ahead and planning ahead. Come to think of it.. its like being a typical Kiasu Singaporean even at work.. everything you do is all about ahead..

Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining at all, its just part and parcel of the working culture. The plus point is that those early morning conference calls, I am able to do it at home and make my way to the office when the traffic is cleared. Thats the beauty to be a flexible staff.

So much about work. .CNY.. had dinner at SIL but could not stay long as hubby had to work the next day - covering duty :(

Oh yes.. Thanks to Melvin for sharing that 2 secrets .. I am happy making that commitments and look forward for getting good news from Melvin every week.

Thats all for now..

What's that sound??!!

2008-01-21T20:30:00.000+08:00

Last Tuesday, we had a "guard" outside our balcony window..
We had gone out for dinner and came home after the heavy downpour. As usual, after the rain, the exterior lighting always seems dimmer than usual.

My husband who was hanging the washed clothes on the rack heard noises - knocks and strange "gobbling" sound coming from somewhere.. he looked everywhere near the balcony but could not figure out where it was coming from.. He opened the main door - there was no one..
Then, when he switched on the balcony light, there he saw - a silhouette of a bird on the parapet outside our balcony window.

He knocked on the window.. and the bird knocked back - so, that was the knocking sound!
He knocked again - this time, the bird looked at him, knocked on the window and was communicating to him - as though - the bird was saying, "Please let me in. Don't you know, its cold outside? Please let me in."..

He tried to shoo away the bird.. it did not move but was knocking hard on the window. If hubby allowed the bird in the house.. I think that could have warrant our neighbours in our house too - I am sure there would be screaming..(just cannot imagine.. the bird flying inside the house!!).. for sure.. I would cover myself in blanket and probably locked myself in the room and not come out of the room until the bird is caged or out of the house!.. We left the bird and retired to bed for the night..

When we woke up in the morning.. the bird was still there.. not moved an inch.. still pecking the window and communicating to us.

Before I left for office, I took some pictures of the bird........

When I called home during the day, my mum told me that the bird had flew away..

Conclusion: The bird could probably be blind in the night and did not want to "risk" flying blindly.. so he (she? Not sure) took a short vacation outside my balcony!

Harrassment : True Yoga

2008-01-16T21:54:00.000+08:00

Have you received any calls from telemarketers that you have been invited to come to True Yoga? I have and that too almost 20 calls for the past 6 months and have patiently told them to remove my name as I am not interested.

Guess what.. I got another call today..I got it as a missed call and not knowing it was True Yoga's number, I returned the call. The receptionist answered the call and I asked if I can speak to a manager, she said "Mam, we are all busy now, please call back.", I was shocked! How rude was that! I told her that I am busy too and that they had called me numerous time when I was busy and I insist to speak to a senior management staff.. Guess what she did.. she said "Hold on" and immediately put me on hold with that irritating music playing in the background!

Is this Service? probably - True Yoga Service!! My goodness! I hang up and called again.

She picked up the phone and before I could say anything, she was actually talking to someone else at the background. Then she came on the line and greeted "True Yoga, This is Rina speaking," I said - "Rina, please don't put me on hold without my permission! I want to speak to someone senior, you guys have been calling me despite me requesting to remove my name. I am being harassed and I want this to stop, else, I will make a police report and will not hesitate to even write to the press. (mind you.. I have written a couple of times - 2 were published on Forum page some years back!!)"

Do you know what came after this.. She said - "Hold on".. and the holding music played on! She came back on the line and said "Mam, all our managers are out at the moment!", "OK, then give me their name and contact number". To this she said " We are not to divulge their name nor their number. Sorry!." So cold.. so unethical.. if this is truly a service industry, providing service of what they claim on their website - get away from the stress of modern life - I think something is really wrong somewhere (go search from Google... there is a disclaimer that we are not to link their site!! )

I am going to let it go again this time.. if they ever call me again.. I will not hesitate to write to Forum Page.. True Harassment!!

Blink....

2008-01-09T14:20:00.000+08:00

With a blink of an eye.. we have completed 8 days of 2008.... See how time flies... today we marked the 9th day of 2008.

Back to school, back to work, back to life and back to reality. Year 2007 had me accomplished my resolution, visualized my dreams, lost some valuables (I stopped thinking about them.. keep telling myself.. it its meant for me, I'll get them back!)..nevertheless, 2007 is over - gone!

I look forward for 2008 as this year brings a positive change in my life. A change which I hope that will yield more family time.. simplicity and yet fulfilling life.

Pressure is something I want to put to the past. For this past 8 days, I have successfully managed to keep my mind off work when I am at home. My grateful thanks to Zee TV! I found my distressing formula.

CNY is just less than a month away.. I don't see any hype on this - my morning taxi rides are now more complaints from taxi driver with the price increase and the cut throat 35% surcharge.... this is really a day light robbery! Some taxi driver commented that "This year, no mood to celebrate - everything so expensive!". I've started to avoid peak hours.. and more bus rides now.. Can't afford to splurge on the taxi ride anymore..

I agree.. like they say in the army - "they give you 100 dollars and take back 99!".

Cheers!

Best in JB and some says Batam

2008-01-04T21:34:00.000+08:00

My office colleague, MK, suggested since we had the shut down vacation, why not use on of the weekend and explore Batam. 2 of my other colleagues agreed and the 4 of us (MK, AL & ST) set off for Batam on 28th Dec at 9am. This was our very 1st time stepping foot at Batam.

We took the ferry from Harbourfront and alighted at Batam Center. Just next to Batam Center, there is a Megamall. We spent almost 9 hours there from shop to shop picking up what's exciting and cost effective. What was interesting is that we had gone after Christmas so the discounts were very attractive - 50% +20%.

So, what more.. Shop lah! We only covered Megamall.. We were then told that there is another shopping mall called Nagoya Hill and you can get more bargain there..Next trip coming soon..

Overall, we enjoyed each other company and best off all, we enjoyed shopping...

Thanks MK for organising!

Answers, Christmas and many more..

2007-12-31T12:05:00.000+08:00

First. for the answers to the quiz questions.. thanks for those who added some humour

and creative answers..
Q1 - the outside of the chicken..
Q2 - Lost. or Gone for a summer vacation
Q3 - Claus-trophobic
Q4 - Jack and Jill are fishes.. LOL!!

24th Dec 2007

Christmas at the Lee's residences..
This year Christmas party at my Sil's was superb.. after the gift exchange.. the conversation topic ranged from religion to the unseen being.. when the stories of the unseen being were told.. you see the children's faces.. all turning pale.. we had some really good stories there.. at one stage.. Ginger and Jasper (Jamie's dogs) howled and everyone had their eyes fixed at the main door wondering who was there.. well, that did not deter the continuation of the stories..

Jane's contribution was far most the scariest.. according to her, after Melissa returned from her Phuket trip recently, she keep seeing "things" around her room.. even in broad day light.. she saw man with suits and holding a briefcase.. she saw youngsters with the Billabong surfing suits..she said she can't sleep though these "being" did not disturb her... they were just wondering around..

Well, now that she have moved out since Melissa has migrated to Australia.. she can,at least,have some sleep..

Oh yes.. this is Jane - our story teller for the night..

We left Sil's place at about 2:30am on Christmas.

25th Dec 2007

My sis was supposed to come for dinner. We woke up at 9am and started to do the daily chores.. then at 11am, the door bell rang, opened the door, there was my sis, my brother-in-law and an Uncle who had come from India to visit us!

We have not started cooking..so, had to do a marathon cooking.. mum took the kitchen first.. then followed by Clarence - He whipped his special - Curry Nanas (Vegetarian version) and then I took the kitchen.. All in all, within 3 hours, we whipped up a total of 6 dishes! Not bad!!

We had lunch only at 3plus in the afternoon.

Shylaja and the kids - V&B came over around 2plus.. V&B were so excited to get their presents..
Vivek and his so chweet smile!
Shylaja, Vivek and Bharat.. (Bharat had a new nickname - Walkie Talkie)

Spiderman pencil set, spiderman t-shirt and shorts and Peanut blanket (since they were staying over :)

Then Da, Sha, La and Prisci came over.

Camera woes - 24th Dec...
Not much pics as my camera was sick and was taken to Olympus service center on the 18th Dec. Collection date was on 24th Dec before 2:30pm. As a typical Kiasu Singaporen, I was at the service centre before the opening hours, anxiously waiting for the clock to strike 11am and for me to be re-united with my camera again.

After taking the queue number 3 - I waited for less than 5mins for my turn (*impressed - I thought!!)... when my number beeped.. the counter lady took my receipt, walked into a room and returned asking me to wait.
Boy.. was it a long wait. Then came this service engineer - name - Indiana *something (Chinese surname) (luckily not Indiana Jones..he looked and me and blurted out.. "Miss, your camera still not service as I just got your camera today for servicing." - to which I replied - "Not my problem.. I sent it to service center last Tuesday! and I am upset now!" (Since it was Christmas eve, I did not want to make a big fuss).. "I hope you don't expect me to wait here till 2:30pm - I have other better things to do.. Its Christmas eve, can you give me a loan set?".. (So much for customer service!)..
They agreed and it took another 45mins to get me a loaner and that too after I keep walking and asking for Indiana!

The loan set was a disappointment.. the pics taken were either under or over exposed! Anyway, the next day - 26th Dec, I received the service phone call that my camera is ready for collection.. I gave them my feedback and requested them to courier my camera instead of making a trip down. they agreed and I was reunited with my camera on the same night..

Welcome back - Olympus FE270!

Tonight.. New Year's Countdown at SILs.. hehehe.. more pics tonight..

The power of positive thinking - Receiving good news!

2007-12-23T00:08:00.001+08:00

It was on 21 Dec 2007 @ 5pm when we finally received the long awaited news...

"Dear xxxxx, We are pleased to advise that your application to the xxxxx xxxx xxxxxx been successful. "

Wow.. what a superb good news to get to end this year! Truely the power of positive thinking works wonder.

So, now it will be in the next phase.. Thank you GOD!

By the way.. I will post the answers to the Quiz questions after Christmas..... no one, except fellow blogspot blogger - saka - had attempted (sorry - wrong answer), has given me any answer..

Dearest bloggers out there.. please try - your thoughts will be the most interesting answer yet to be discovered.. please leave me your answers.. Let's us all laugh and end this year with good clean fun.. and we will start 2008 with more happiness..after all, laughter is the BEST medicine.. and laughing keeps us young in the mind and in the heart.. heheheh.. shows on the face too (*LOL!*)

Company shut down.. on vacation! Yippie yahoo.. Dipperty doo dah!

Count down to Christmas .... Cheers!

Quiz Questions - Answers anyone?

2007-12-21T09:12:00.000+08:00

1) Which part of the chicken has the most feathers?
2) Why is the penguin in the desert?
3) What are you known as if you're afraid of Santa Claus?
4) Jack and Jill are lying dead on the floor of the room. There is no blood on the floor or anywhere else in the room. The door of the room is locked from inside, and there are no signs of forced entry from the door. The only window in the room has a broken glass and there are pieces of glass scattered on the floor. There is also water on the floor.

• Can you figure out how did Jack and Jill die?

Christmas Dinner and Dance

2007-12-19T18:09:00.000+08:00

Aunt Rosemary (68years old - bd 27th Feb) (late MIL School friend) called one evening and asked if we would all go for Dance on 15th Dec with her at the Eurasian Association at Ceylon Road. She had received the invite 3 days before the due date of the registration and had called the club to purchase tickets only to be told that they have been sold out.

So, Aunt Rosemary did not accepted the answer and eventually she managed to get a table for 7 all nicely tucked at the side of the badminton size hall at the club house. So you can guess, we had the last lot of the lucky draw tickets number - from 0121 to 0127! Lol!

We all (Hub, me, My SIL - Corrina and her husband Martin, Sil- Jewell and Aunt Rosemary and off course invited guest - my Cousin - Kailas - whom she met at my place during Diwali dinner) agreed to go and paid her $30 for the dinner and dance.

Ok.. what's interesting is when we reached and collected our tickets, printed in green "Silver Circle's Christmas D&D" - clearly, the 6 of us is no way near the "Silver Circle".. well.. what the heck.. we were there and we enjoyed..

The host was fantastic, the music was great - only some of the dancers were the CC Lion Dance club and they had form their own "silver circle" Lion dance when the cha-cha music played..

We all had a good laugh.. some photos to capture the moment.. oh yes. SIL- Corrina won 8th Prize! No bad!

The lady behind convincing the 6 of us to come for dinner and dance - Aunt Rosemary D'souza

Me and Clarence

The group photo minus the camera man - Kailas - seems that all of us in black except for Aunt and Kailas - both came in blue ...hmmmm...

The laughing moment (sorry Sil - I know you will read this.. but I just love this candid shot of you!)

My 2 beautiful SIL - Blessed am I to have such fun and cool SILs!

Here's the missing man - Kailas - well.. he's not singing, he participated in the games and won a prize as well.

See that bright smile - won the 8th Prize - not bad at all! Now.. I'm not going to say which ticket won her this prize - go guess.. it's one of the 7 starting from 0121 to 0127...

Cheers!

Next 2 positive events - Christmas Eve party at SIL's and B&V stay over on Christmas day at my place.

Living life to the fullest!

Anyone has any Adoption Lobangs?

2007-12-12T18:42:00.000+08:00

Now I wished I was 10years younger.. I would have wanted to have another kid. Having only one kid can be lonely. I used to think that one is enough, handful.. but realised the missing sibling companion, missing the noise, the joy and the sorrows. My son has been asking me countless amount of time to have another kid.. I just brushed it off. He would often say, "Mum, I want a sister and a brother, I am so lonely."... I feel his sadness.. if only the miscarriage did not happen 7 years ago, my life would have been different now..

The past weekend was spent at Bangsar, at Rajesh's place. His 2 really adorable girls, Janhavi and Jivika was a great company. We all enjoyed every single minute spent with them. Jivika's attachment to her "baba" (Clarence) was something we did not expect.

She sat with him, wanted only him to carry her. When he step out to the room, she would be right behind him, tagging her way along with him. On Sunday night, we ordered Pizza and chicken wings for dinner. Jivika was sitting on Clarence's lap and imitating his every move on how he was peeling the chicken flesh.. She did just the same only to put in in the mouth and feeling the spicy taste and then quickly gulping down a glass of water. Jivika is only 2 years old. When you ask her any question, her would say "Yaw" (means "yes"). If she does not see Clarence in sight, she would ask - "Where Baba?". "Baba go poo-poo?".

Before we left on Monday, we had to keep telling her that Baba has to work the next day and that she would not see him. Apparently, before us, one of her uncles had visited and when he left, she was crying and crying.

Thank God when we called last night, she was ok.. No crying.. she did asked though, how come baba has not return from office?

Anyone has any lobangs for adoption? I am serious as I have been thinking for a long time if this is the path I want to take and after this weekend, I am only encourage to pursue further. If you go through the adoption agency, the waiting time is so much longer and the cost is too much..if there is a willing party, the wait time is only the preparation of the legal documentations and a visit from MCYS..

I would prefer a girl, if I had a choice. If anyone has any contacts, do pm me and we can discuss further.

Thanks!

Everyone has one of those days...

2007-12-06T16:51:00.000+08:00

Today, my ex-boss officially announced that I will be moving back to my previous role since this new role (8months into this job) requires me to work on 12hrs shift and I have put down firmly to my current boss that I am not able to work on weekends - period! Since this is a US based operation, our shift is following the US model and there will be one quarter where I actually have to burn 3months of Fridays, Saturdays, Sunday and alternate Mondays.. I cannot imagine myself in this situation. I cannot imagine working 8:30am to 8:30pm straight and no more energy left to do anything else but to come home to get some rest for the next day marathon.

Like always, we all have choices to make. .our priority is our family.. a job is just a job (it took me until now to realise that! - but nevertheless, its not late.).

I am lucky that my hard work has been recognised and that I am still required - my expertise is valued. I think what is important is the rapport built and the attitude. When I left for this current role, my intentions were solely that I could have more time for my family, especially for my son. The lost time I had the previous year had upsetted me too much. If I could leave, I would. In fact, I would say, I had my time with my son as mostly I was working from home these couple of months. These 8 months, I had the best time with my son, the bonding was so great that I am sure now that I have to be regular in the office, it will not change anything.

Also, I have come to realised that a job is just a job.. don't have to sweat too much.. a little is OK. After all, we are responsible people.. we just need to do it and done with it..

I look forward to a good start in 2008.

The Holy Man and The Prostitute

2007-12-05T08:58:00.000+08:00

I want to share with you a story which I read a couple of years ago. This book was given to me by my best friend and there are a lot of such short stories with so much insights and it keeps you thinking and thinking. This stories teaches you life experiences and what is in the outer world is nothing compared to the inner world. So, to start off, here is one of my favourites...

The Holy Man and The Prostitute

There once live a Holy man who maintained very strict rules of purity. He was very well respected by many kings, artists, scientist and important people around. He ate neither meat nor fish and stayed away from garlic and onions. He neither drank nor smoked. He prayed 3 times a day and is always repeating mantras with his eyes closed, opening them only to see someone.

This holy man lives on the 1st floor of a building. And on the opposite site of his building, live this prostitute who practiced her profession, singing, dancing and doing all the things that a prostitutes do.

Now although the Holy Man was celibate and physically pure, he was obsessed with her. He would watch her constantly, stealing in between his mantras, thinking. "Hey, that's the second fellow who had gone to her today. Now, there is the third one waiting." "Look, she's hugging him." All day long, he watched the prostitute, thinking how wicked and sinful she was. Why does a pure being like me have to live across the street from a wretched prostitute? he would wonder.

On the flip side, when the prostitute has some spare time, she would look towards the holy man and be filled with remorse. She would think, what a pure and holy being he is and look at me, what a bad state I'm in. Alas, alas, There is no hope for me.

Many years passed and one day, both died.

The holy man was surrounded by his disciples, the riches amongst the riches came to bid him goodbye. Garlands and garlands laid on his body. Precious materials were put on his body, sandalwood and incense were burned. He was given the grandest farewell anyone could imagine.

Whereas, the prostitute, she died alone..on one knew of here death until the body started to stink. The city officials came and sprinkled chemical in the house and dragged the body and buried it without any ceremony.

The souls of the Holy man and the prostitute crossed over to the next world. Their files were checked and both of them were given slips of paper indicating where they were to go. The prostitute's slip of paper said "heaven" and the Holy Man's - "hell".

The Holy Man was terribly upset and he cried "Is this justice? You send a wretched prostitute to heaven and a pure person like me to Hell! How do you explain this?"

"Come this way." came the instruction from the God's officials

He pulled out the files and showed to the Holy Man - "It is true that you kept your body very pure, that you performed many religious rites and rituals," he explained, "That is why, when you died, your body was treated with the highest respect and buried with the greatest honors. But now at this juncture, we look at the accounts of what you thought about. Day after day, you kept thinking, she is a wretched creature, she is so wicked, look at all those men who are coming to her. She is so dirty.

Then God's official, pull out the file of the prostitute and said -"this is what she thought about you." - "Oh Holy Man, you are so pure and sublime. Oh Holy Man, save me. Pray for me. I am force to do this. Oh Holy Man, Save me!" Off course, her body performed impure actions and as a result it was treated with disrespectfully and given a pauper's burial. But because her thoughts were high and pure, she has been sent to heaven and because you thought about sins and wickedness, you have to go to hell."

So the moral of the story, its left to individual interpretations...

Cheers!

Its the first Monday of the month of December..

2007-12-03T10:27:00.000+08:00

Fresh and Alive!! No more cough, no blocked nose.. no fever! Yeah!! The medication topped up with the un-disturbed sleep can really do wonders...what I needed was the deep sleep to recover - no tension of waking up early and getting ready for work.. that is the magic of having a 5 day work week job..

Today is another Monday and we have 4 more Mondays before we end the year.
Have you made your new year resolution? I have. In fact, I am proud that I fulfilled my 2007 resolution which was to be home on time - before 7pm so as to spend time with my family. I am glad that my work scheduled allowed me to be home before 6pm as I am on the earlier shift.

So, I will continue to keep my last years resolution and add to that my 2008 resolution - to start my walking routine again! Yeah!! Got to get all my Hindi songs downloaded onto the MP3 .......

Thank God its Friday

2007-11-30T07:51:00.000+08:00

I've been sick for the pass 2 days - sneezing, running nose, sore throat and coughing! Boy! I hate this feeling..
It all happened after sitting under the air-con in the office. I could literally feel the cold air penetrating my bones! and all it took was a first sneeze..Damn..it was like Winter in the office and I was all alone *enjoying* the imaginary snow.. snow man.. i thought I saw Frosty!

So, after today, I will be fully able to rest - without tension of work! Yeah!

This weekend is dedicated for replenishing lost energy and I am going to do just that.
All recovered and re-charged for another exciting week!

Back to Zee TV - my ultimate de-stressing source

2007-11-28T08:43:00.000+08:00

I'm so eager to see today's episode of Teen Bahuraaniyaan ( episode guide not updated on Zee website!!). This serial is somewhat difference from the usual "rona-dhona" type.. Now the serial has a twist and now Maya - the only daughter in the family who was chased out of the house by the Teen Maha Bahus (*wicked*) is the main focus.

Since Maya has given them each 11lakhs rupees to start on their own and to leave the family home. Who will be responsible for the Gkaka, Sunanda Dadi and Mithiba? (The eldest in the family?) Who will take the responsibility to look after these 3 old folks?

This is so family oriented serial.. well.. it happens in real life as well.. when it comes to looking after the old folks, a sick sibling, who is taking the responsibilities?

I am fortunate that I have the privilege to have my mum all for myself for the past 13 years. This gives Nick an opportunity to value and understand the importance of looking after his grandma. Nick and his grandma - Aji - share a special bond.. my mum has this blue stick which she will hold near her whenever Nick comes near her.. you see, he likes to irritate her - hugs her and touches her cheeks and he would says "moouchi moouchi" and she would use the stick to hit him and he would continue to irritate her. Nick loves his only grandma. She has been with him since the day he was born.

*see the cheeky grin on Nick's face!*

Cheers!

When the boys meet...

2007-11-26T08:17:00.000+08:00

21st Nov - When the boys meet.. Vivek and Bharat came to our home on Wednesday and the 3 boys played catching, soccer, ran wild.. screamed, shouted, sang, spoke, cried, laughed.. and this is the aftermath of everything...

Tired! (re-charging energy - Refuelling!!)

22nd Nov, Thursday

Nick's childhood friend - Navvin came to stay over ..

These 2 had so much fun - they were so busy (talking, playing PS2 etc ) from the time Navvin reached up till the time they slept. Navvin is so much into soccer, his knowledge on soccer is superb!! The boys had even a chance to "play detective"for a short while..

I was working from home and from my room window, I could hear 2 kids - a girl and a boy crying their lungs out.. the girl was literally screaming. The sound seems to come from the adjacent block.

I called the 2 boys over to my room and they confirmed hearing the cries and screams.

I decided to call the police post to report and have them check out. Poor kids, hopefully they are not abused.

I asked the boys if they would want to do some "detective" work.. go to the said block and try to locate which unit the sound is coming from.. They were so excited and they left immediately.

While they were out. I saw a police car drive pass and parked near the block. I called the police post to check if they had sent the car and they confirm. I also invited the policeman to my home to hear the cries for themselves.

Sadly, the 2 boys could not locate the sound - where it was coming from and the policeman did not bother a follow up call either nor came over to my place to witness the cries.

When the boys came up, they headed immediately to my room.. the cries stopped for a while and then continued for a short while - at one stage, we could hear the boy screaming "i dun want.. I dun want." and then.. sob sob and stopped.

We will watch again on this week if we can hear the cries again and probably make another phone call.. Concern citizen!

Diwali at my sister's place - 17th Nov

2007-11-22T09:52:00.000+08:00

My sister organised a Diwali gathering ..her extended family came in full force.. it was a fun and enjoyable gathering...

The food - catered - very nice and tasty..

The kids.... Being entertained by the adults...

More of the kids - Harini, Bharat and Vimaal
Bharat - with his finger on his mouth, Vimaal and Vivek (Bharat's bro)

Some of the guest - Suguna (Sister's Niece), Kala (Sister's SIL) and Periya Amma (Sister's SIL)
Parames and Shylaja (Sisters Nieces)

Their husband - Ragu and Mahendra (Mike)

Shylaja and Bharat (the lil one) -

Helicopter is pronounce as He-Li-Co-Pi-Ter!

This is Kapila and Aji

Kapila and Rani

Kapila n Nick

There were many other guest and I was too busy with chit chatting that did not take most of their pic..sorry if you did not appear here ok...

Reunited

2007-11-21T08:39:00.000+08:00

Thanks to the Taxi driver, he came to pick me up at the office and drop me home.. and I am reunited with my phone..

When I reached home.. my gold chain just snapped and fell .. luckily it was at home.. I guess that was the end of the "Hilang-spell".. I believe now I should be in the zone of recovery.. not loosing but gaining.. hahahahaha...

My son was *rolling his eyes*.. ."mum..why these happening? First your stuffs, next the phone and now the gold chain!".. I replied him, " this is life's wonder.. its telling you to be careful, to be alert and not let the outter forces rule your life.".. to this his reply "I'll sleep in your room tonight!"...

Well.. he did sleep in my room and we had the best conversation.. talking about old times.. chit chatting about the "unknown"

Hmmm ... come to think of it.. this episode created a bonding time for my son and I.. for a 13years old.. he can be funny too... Love you son!

Sleepy head is still sleeping.. long school holiday.. today he'll have his 2 small friend - Vivek and Bharat coming over to spend time with him... he'll be the big bro later..

Cheers!

Just discovered - I lost my mobile

2007-11-20T08:38:00.000+08:00

I think I am in a loosing mode now.. The latest I've misplaced is my mobile.. which I just discovered.. luckily i have the taxi receipt which I took this morning and thank GOD, the taxi driver kept my mobile.

Tonight I will be going to collect my mobile from him.. Thank you MR TAXI Driver - SH 8119Y. I'd appreciate your kind gesture.

Cheers!

Another Vacation... a movie to de-stress myself...

2007-11-20T08:11:00.000+08:00

I think I need to have another vacation soon.. I am bored and need a change of environment and a change of atmosphere. I am looking at several destinations but $$ keeping me thinking of just crossing the bridge instead (not Sentosa!! Nah!).

I'll probably do only that.. take a bus down and spend some personal time just browsing around. Shopping? I had done a lot when I was in India and I think I had enough of it - for now.

Have I found what I've lost.. no . not yet.. I think I will give it a rest and convinced myself that if its mine. its mine.. it'll come back to me. And for the good news.. I am still waiting.. I have to be positive to accept what comes my way..if it is meant to be, it will be.

Ok. as I was feeling a little upset over the weekend, I've decided to watch the Hindi movie - Bhool Bhulaiyaa - this is the Hindi version of the Tamil movie _ Chandramukki. Vidya Balan plays the role of being possessed by Manjulikka - the mistress of the Raja who beheaded her lover. Ok.. not scary.. I still prefer Jothikas acting - she emits the chills in your spine when she's possessed.

Good try Divya...

Ok.. to de-stress - watch a movie.... be involve and you'll forget what's troubling you..

Cheers!

Lost and Finding.......

2007-11-19T08:04:00.000+08:00

Last weekend I'd found out that I cannot locate a certain something of mine and was in a frenzy finding every corner in my house.

What was amazing that during these moments of findings.. we found other *missing* stuff. The strange thing is that the places where we had found these things were places that we had checked earlier.. Guess our eyes and mind were playing tricks on us. Or...??? Hmmm.....

I pray that I find what's missing and be re-united with it. My mind is in a blank!

Also, I am praying for some good news despite the 2 updates that we have received. GOD, please help us to realise our dreams. I am keeping positive. Thanks!

Walking down memory lane.........Warning.. Some pictures may strain your eyes (lol!)

2007-11-16T10:29:00.000+08:00

I decided to upload some of this old pictures that were taken on 1/1/2006 - Chloe's birthday. We had gone to Glenn's place and Aunty Surine showed her collections of old photos. I took our my digi and decided to take copies. I am not too sure who is who.. anyone from the inlaw's can comment?

Uncle Kenny's wedding? On the far left is Late Uncle Roland, Aunty Surine and I would think that's Ernest (?) and on the right, the lady is my late MIL - Elaine Celine Kesslar. Not too sure who the gentleman is next to her..
Elvis?? - Nah...he has left the building!! This is my late FIL - Ivan De Silva.

If my recollection is correct, this is my MIL's Grandad - the Kesslar side of the family.

And this is my MIL's grandma

and the gentleman on the far right - he is my FIL dad.

This was the begining of the rojak clan ........

Happy viewing.. I welcome your comments.. Cheers!

Diwali Diary .... Day 03 - what happens when the De Silvas, the Kesslars and the Francis meet...

2007-11-14T11:10:00.001+08:00

Started Day 03 very early - was busy at the kitchen, whipping up a few dishes..

My first visitor - one of my many bosses - Sandeep Gupta. He came with his wife, Namita and son Samarth. It was nice of him to make the effort as he too had some party over at his place that night.

Then the night started

Makan-ing... (Jane, Aunty Jay and Uncle Malcolm)

Talking... (Kailas and Joshua)

Posing ... Tracy (CIL- seated) (Jewell (SIL), Sandra (CIL), Corrina (SIL), Sandra's friend
Posing again - Clarence, Kailas, Derek (BIL), Uncle Malcolm, Seated - Martin (BIL) and Corrina (SIL)
Then the family pic (From right - Derek, Josh, Jamie, Chloe, Jewell, Clarence, me, Nick, Kieriel, Kieren, Kiefer, Martin and Corrina)
Extended Family Pic (Kak Sal, Aunty Jay, Uncle Malcolm, Derek, Clarence, Aunty Rosemary, Martin and Corrina)

Then the finale - the hug - Martin's 50th Birthday and Jane 53rd Birthday.

Fully enjoyed their company and thanks Sis - Corrina for helping to clean up :)

Diwali Diary ... Day 02

2007-11-12T18:13:00.000+08:00

Day 2 started at around 4pm when Nick's friend - Darwis and Mahesh visited. (sorry, forgotten to take their photo as they were busy playing - PS2)

Then Fai and her 2 adorable boys came and the whole house lighted with laughter.. the boys had fun with the older once playing "bunga api". I enjoyed their company very much. Thanks for coming. Boys, you have such a wonderful mum. And stay laughing, happy always. Love u!

Then my relative visited me with her hmmmm (can you guess?)..

I will take a poll on this.. who do you think this is?

I was expecting 2 more guest, but both sms'ed me that they were not well. Day 3 was waiting.. so much more preparation and photos to upload :)

Diwali Diary...... Day 01 - Continuation

2007-11-10T09:48:00.000+08:00

It's been a very exciting Diwali this year.... entertaining.. completed 2 days and today will be the biggest.. my in-laws, SILs, BILs, CILs, UIL - almost 20 of them will be visiting us.. Hurray, this is the time to catch up and merry. I always love seeing my extended family.

Diwali started with blessings from the eldest in the family - My mum, then followed by my hub and son.

This is Melody and her 2 lovely daughters, Jia & Mei. Boon, Mel's hub, came, but he left to go to the shop nearby my place to get something, thus I do not have his pic.. sorry Boon!

Melody and I share a very special friendship started from Texas Instruments till Compaq and now best of friends.. We see and talk to each other at least a couple of times each year. She is my most trusted Financial Advisory and my Insurance agent. She is the most complete and straight to the point, no jargon, insurance agent.. So, all my insurance, are trusted with my pal - Melody :)

Meet Melvin and Betty, they came the same time as Melody and the co-incident thing is both Melvin and Melody have a common friend - Jacquelyn - whom was previously from Compaq too. Jac used to report to Melody.. what a small world!!

Melvin, as I have previously blogged about, is my buddy and best pal!! He inspired me to blog and to look positively in life.. During my Compaq days, I experience a moment in my life where my world had gone apart. Melvin and Joyce were there by my side to comfort me.. I still have those cards that you have given to me.. Thanks pal!

This is my eldest sis, VJ and her family, the 2 girls you see there - Kapila (in white) and Kapisha, are twins! They look years apart, behave world apart.. but there is a bond in them.. They are my best nieces.. I love you girls..

And that's my BIL - Chandra - He is one of those BIL whom does not speak much but has the most kind hearted. When I first got married and starting my house, my BIL supported my husband and me to start up our family. I am always grateful to my sister and BIL.. also, I would never forget that this sister of mine, when I was growing up, she used to sew beautiful dresses for me. When she started working, her first pay, she got me a dress from Cortina - at that time, Cortina was like the only huge departmental store. I still remember the blue dress you'd sew me sis..
Missing in this pic is my nephew - Kavesh. He was tied up and will visit his granny today..

This is Mr Foong, Ai Lin and my god - daughter - Angeline, (Mei).
We used to be neighbours and somehow the bond of friendship became strong. Every occasion, without fail, Mr Foong would visit us, even when my dad died - Mr Foong, participated the Hindu ritual - I was so touched cause Mr Foong had never met my dad - my dad used to live in India and only came to Singapore when he was very ill.

His wife is Ai Lin, she is a Thai national and she makes the best vegetarian Tom Yam!! Yummy.. Oh one more thing..whenever I am outside and stuck, couldn't get a cab, I would sms Mr Foong to check where he is..he would come and pick me up unless he has a customer in the taxi. Mr Foong knows all my friends, my bosses etc.. on the most morning when he sends me to work, I would share my stories and likewise, he would share all his taxi adventures..all his stories are so exciting.. so, whenever I take his cab in the morning.. I have a lot of new stories to share with my colleagues.. all thanks to the experiences and the sharing..

Ok.. got to go get ready.. guest starting to come by 11am..

I'll blog on my 2nd day of guest soon.. check out and do leave comments.. I love to hear from you .

Love you all!

Diwali Diary........Day 01

2007-11-09T00:22:00.000+08:00

Lakshmi Ka hath Ho, Saraswati ka sath ho, Ganesh ka niwas ho, aur ma durga ka ashirwad se Aapke jeevan mei prakash hi prakash ho - Happy Diwali!

Aren't these just beautiful? Yes. .Beautifully delicious too.. Thanks to my friend - Fairani who took the trouble to gifted me with these lovely cupcakes.. Everyone of my guest were so fascinated and commented how beautiful they were.. I had the opportunity to show them her multiply site - http://perfectfrosting.multiply.com/ . You will find a huge range of the most creative designs. I bet you that you will be "Aww" on each and every photos she has of her cupcakes.. so, go ahead.. after you've finish reading my blog, bookmark perfectfrosting..Happy Drooling folks...

Next drooling.... what I had prepared for my guest forgotten to take the pic of the briyani rice..

Chicken Masala Curry

Sambal Prawns

Here's how my family, we had done up our home for this Diwali - theme - maroon (Queen Royale look!!- Lol!!)

My guest will be shown next on my blog... oh yes.. those close friends of mine who know I am in this Kurti's adventures had purchased some yesterday.. I sold a total of 5 Kurtis...

So many things to do.........

2007-11-07T08:59:00.001+08:00

Good morning, Yippie.. I'm on leave and returning to office only on Monday.. Yahoo!!
On leave at this time of the year means busy at home :(

List of things to do today:-
Wash toilets
Clear counter top
Wash bedsheets
Put door hangings
Vacumm and mop the house

Nick has to put his bedsheet and tidy up his room.

Luckily I started early this year so no rush rush last minute.. Tonight I am making yet another trip to Tekka and join the fun to get some last minute shopping.. hopefully..

Ok.. all set and go now..

Christmas hype all over even before Diwali - sigh So much for equality!

2007-11-06T09:28:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, while on the way to Tekka, we were listening to Gold90 FM, hosted by Yasmin and Tim O - they were talking about all the decorations coming up for Christmas even before Diwali begins..

Hmmm.. this comes to my mind.. for the Singaporean Indian, we can only feel Diwali at Serangoon road.. Not even a Diwali banner in Causeway point.. Metro is already busy with Christmas decorations! However, I got a surprise on Sunday when I went to Seng Siong at Marsiling, not only they had a Deepavali Banner, they even played a Hindi song!

Well..so much for equality..

Here's what Sangeeta Raut, my guest from India - who is an expert in Bridal henna did for me on Saturday -

At the Diwali fair, they charge S$5 bucks for one site of the hands. .I got mine done for FREE.. Sangeeta was so thoughtful to have brought

her own Henna cone from India !

Cheers!!

Sneak Preview

2007-11-05T23:54:00.000+08:00

As promised, here's a sneak preview of the new stocks..

Details will be posted after Diwali. Meanwhile, if anyone is interested, please feel free to email me.

Happy Diwali to all :)

New stocks ARRIVED

2007-11-04T00:48:00.000+08:00

My new stocks arrived today. Due to Diwali season, I am a little busy to put them on the web for now. I'll do a sneak preview either tomorrow or Monday..so catch them...

This time, the selections are excellent, there is a slight price hike due to the Diwali season selling.

Till then.. good night..

More of Zee TV Soaps - Teen Bahuraaniyaan

2007-11-01T13:42:00.000+08:00

Last night I watched Teen Bahuraaniyaan and was glued for 1/2 half hour thrilled to the climax of the serial.

I can't wait for 11pm tonight to watch what will Maya do next.. She was so hurt when she overheard the conversation between G-Kaka (Her dad whom had disowned her - reasons not revealed yet) and her mum - Sunanda Dadi (Dadi in Hindi means Grandma).

G-Kaka told Sunanda that she had lost him when she make the decision to support Maya whom he has disowned. And if Sunanda wants him back, she has to disown Maya too.

Now I know what it is like to be "addicted" to watch these soaps.. I know of those who were so addicted watching "Days of our Lives"...... Remember that? I am not too much into English soaps.. Hindi once are OK-OK.. though a little dramatic, I enjoyed watching the glamorous Saree's, the unique costume jewelleries, the make-ups.. all the actors, they are simply dashing..

Some of these soaps have good learning's (Especially those more of the family oriented type)..some are just plain dragging.. I stopped watching Kasamh Se now.. Bani and Mr Walia - too draggy...Some, so drama, how much can one person take suffering man.. so unrealistic.. some, so stereotype...

These 3 - Betiyaan, Maayka, Teen Bahuraaniyaan, are in my plate now.. Lets see who bores me first..

Mum-Daughter Look alike..

2007-10-31T15:45:00.000+08:00

I posted about my business partner Deepa and finally got her picture and here she is..

Mind you.. she is a mother of a 17 year old daughter..Mithila..

Don't they just look like sisters? They can share clothes and shoes too.. Isn't that just cool?

Mithila was in Singapore for 4 days in June and we had a blasting time.. We literally maximize the 4 days getting up early and sleeping late.. We had gone to my office bbq gathering, Little India - Mustafa (one stop shopping for those who have no time ); Vivo City, Causeway Point, Science Center, Omnimax theatre, Swimming, Ang Mo Kio Hub shopping (Mithila and my niece Kapisha spent a good 5 hours in 'This Fashion' ). We also spent 1/2 of a Saturday in a temple for my dad's 1st year death anniversary.

I think if we had another 4 days, she would have probably covered Singapore :)

I am glad we had the chance to see each other again after so many years..

PS: Doesn't Mithila looks like Kareena Kapoor?

Soon it will be goodbye 2007

2007-10-30T09:24:00.000+08:00

I just realised that in 62days from now, we will bid 2007 goodbye.

By then, we would have achieved a full year of experience, be it good or bad, a full year of frustrations and a full year of rewards - it depends how each of us sees our opportunities for growth. For me, the rewards that I've gained is so priceless that the frustrations have all dissolved.

I realised that I have fulfilled my 2007 resolution which was to be home on time each day after work. On the current shift 7:30am to 4:30pm, I am at home with my family on most of the nights for dinner. Off course, there are nights which I have conferences to attend, but the point is that I am home by 6:30pm latest most of the time.

Comparing to the year before, where I stepped in the house just to step out again to head to the office for crisis management and those nights where I just close my eyes only to open it again when the phone rings. It was truly an experience..I am glad I am out of that though the experience has taught me to appreciate my family most and to draw that line between work and family life. Its up to us to make it Work life balance or Life work Balance..

I am appreciative of the fact that I have got my time with my family and that my ex-managers understand that I have to make that decision to move out. I moved out for a reason and I am glad that I made the change.

Another change is coming my way, I will take that change positively and ensure the balance is something I choose and works for me.

Sometimes in life, it is all about yourself and what you want out of it. Be it selfish, but remember, the one who goes through the pain is non-other that yourself. I've learnt this lesson and sharing with you. that it is ok to think of yourself and what you want to achieve in your life cause only you can make that happen..

Visit to the Diwali Fair at Serangoon Road

2007-10-27T01:47:00.000+08:00

This evening, my family had gone to Serangoon Road to feel the atmosphere of Diwali, the festival of light..This year, the decoration on Serangoon Road is nice.. subtle and soft colours..

Diwali, is perhaps the most well-known of the Indian festivals in Singapore. It usually takes place eighteen days after Dusshera. It is colloquially known as the "festival of lights", for the common practice is to light small oil lamps (called diyas) and place them around the home. Nowadays, tealites candles are substituted for diyas.

In India, the celebration of the festival is accompanied by the exchange of sweets and the explosion of fireworks (opps, banned in Singapore :( ). In Singapore, Diwali is celebrated with the must have murukku, ladoo and many local cookies.. such as pineapple tarts, kuih makmur, cakes and such.

As with other Indian festivals, Diwali signifies many different things to people across the country. In north India, Diwali celebrates Rama's homecoming, that is his return to Ayodhya after the defeat of Ravana and his coronation as king; in Gujarat, the festival honors Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth; and in Bengal, it is associated with the goddess Kali. Everywhere, it signifies the renewal of life, and accordingly it is common to wear new clothes on the day of the festival; similarly, it heralds the approach of winter and the beginning of the sowing season.

The indians actually do not practice is giving monetary (ang poh, green packet).. however, it is a common practice now and the kids look forward for this.

For me and my family, Diwali is celebrated with my family and friends. Unfortunately for me, I have very limited visiting to do as all my relatives are in India, none here.. I miss them so much.

I am also fortunate to have a very supportive and simple husband. Though he is a Eurasian and religion - RC, he is very supportive and would dress up Indian with the family and participate in the joy and happiness. My mother is so proud of this son-in-law of hers.

On Diwali, my family will dressed up all Indian - I am usually with my Salwar Kameez, mum in Saree, Nick and Dad in Kurta. We will go to the temple in the morning and then have breakfast together.

Count down to 8th Nov.. so many things to do at home..

Fan of Zee TV Soaps

2007-10-26T08:39:00.000+08:00

I am glued to the TV on most night from 10pm to 11:30pm. There are 3 Zee TV Soaps which I am following. (If for some reason i miss, the internet is a wonderful place to be updated on the progress of each episode, so no big deal for not watching :) )

1) Betiyaan

2) Maayka

3) Teen Bahuraaniyan

In Betiyaan, the story is about 4 daughters (Saraswati, Gauri, Laxmi and Durga) and 1 son (Yuwraj) and how society views daughters and sons. In this soap, the son will dwindle all the family fortune and lavish it off with his prostitue wife (Kajri). He will be disowned by his father (Suryakant Garodia) who walks out of the family and later, he will disown his mother (Meneka) who had supported him all the way, even when she was finally made aware that her daughter-in-law is not a royal princess but a prostitute. Throw her out on the street.

Suryakant married Meneka after his 1st wife (Savitri) gave him 4 daugthers. More from Zee..

http://www.zee-tv.com/Zee_Serial.aspx?zsid=71

The positive aspect of this story showcase that the mentality of having a son to "carry on the family name" is a cliche and it no longer hold any truth. Like sons, daughters are also honour, respect and they too, hold respect for the family name. Infact, I think that generally daughters tends to be more close to their own family than son. But again, it is the upbringing that matters. If you teach your kid to be family oriented, they will naturally grow up to have their family around them.

My son is fortunate that he has 3 cousins (Sha, La and Chloe) whom he can associate with. Sha and La (Twin sisters) are elder and they are a sister figure to him.. Chloe

is just a year older and they have common topics to talk.. so, when Chloe is out with us, they both got so many things to talk and laugh about.

Front right : Kapisha, Kapila, Kavesh, Nickhill and Angeline (my God daughter)

Chloe Moro

Thanks for the Good news!

2007-10-25T11:01:00.000+08:00

I am glad with the news I got yesterday, first, my colleague had her diagnosis and that she is perfectly well, she is probably stress and she needs to take a break. I am glad to hear this.

Next, thanks to my son, Nickhill, for making me a proud mother. I am thankful to GOD. It's every mother's wish to have her children appreciating the parents.. He did something that we are all totally proud of him. God bless him!

My follow up with the doctor yesterday was also positive, my sinus is clearing and the nasal spray she gave yesterday helped to stop the nose from running now. So, no more tissues needed. Yahoo!

If you live thinking positively, you will live a lot better.. life becomes satisfied even in the most challenging situation... B+

Cheers!

The De Haan Family

2007-10-24T08:08:00.000+08:00

Its been almost 3 years since I last saw Joyce and her family. Joyce was my ex-colleague from Compaq. Together with Melvin, the 3 of us were a great team. We used to handle all kinds of issues that happened on the job. What's left now is memories that we treasure.

Joyce called on one Tuesday and informed that her husband has been given an assignment in Singapore for 2 weeks and they are coming here.

And she arrived on Tuesday -9Th Oct. We met when she arrived. This is the 1st time meeting her 4 months old daughter - Jorryn. And 2ND time meeting her son, Jerryc. They are such adorable kids.

What is positive about this event? Well, friendship is still alive. Though we are oceans apart and hardly speak over the phone or let alone emailing each other.. we do take the trouble to meet each other when the opportunity arises. This is all about being friends.

I am glad we kept this alive Joyce! Glad to see you again.

Yesterday, while in the office, a colleague of mind was sharing her flight that she recently had been experiencing a lot of discomfort with her eyes. She has been seeing blurred vision. The panel doctor had recommended her to a specialist and she was sharing the "ordeal" of the MIR scan that she had to endure. Her total specialist medical bill came to a whopping $2000.

We both talked about work and how stressful the past few weeks were for her due to some transition activities that she is managing.

I am glad she seek early medical advice. Today, she will know what the diagnosis is. I hope everything is OK and it is just a case of burn out. Friend, u know who you are, take the job as it is - just a job -. the family needs you more than the job.

The positive aspect of this experience is that when you are feeling medically discomfort of any sort - just like she did, get medical treatment quickly and have a peace of mind knowing how to treat the symptom with the professional advice rather than having sleepless night speculating what could be wrong with you.

Sleepless Night and B Positive

2007-10-23T07:55:00.001+08:00

Last night, I had trouble sleeping. My mind was very very active.. It was one of those nights where my mind took power of my soul. I was thinking and thinking a whole lot of stuffs (That could be the reason for the grey hairs).

Thoughts of blogging, what to blog, how to blog, what to say, politically correct statements, them jumping to think about Hubby, about son, then back to blogging.. wow... it was a real mess..

Then.. I took control and started to organise my thoughts.. I drew a virtual line and started to prioritize what is important, what is just a waste of time thinking...

3rd on my list was about Blogging.. I've decided that I will blog on this site on positive thoughts.. so, i was thinking hard on all events that took place in the night itself and was thinking the positive side of the situation.

Lo and behold.. the positive side of this story is

1) the thinking process helped me to take charge of my thoughts and organize them to benefit me.
2) I "threw away" thoughts that did not add value to the thinking process..

Now.. thats positive.. More to come..

By the way, I've decided to rename this blog and remain this as a blogging avenue.. For the Kurti, please visit me at http://rvasuda.multiply.com

Cheers!! B Positive!

New Look and more new designs coming soon

2007-10-19T10:12:00.000+08:00

I've decided to go for a plain subtle look instead.. For those who have place orders.. thanks!!.. Goods will be arriving on 1st Nov and I should be able to give you your stuffs.. Yahoo.. just in time for Diwali..

Ok.. I have some new stuffs coming in.. so do look out for this page.

I have been under the weather lately and am recovering now... thanks to Doctor Ann of Royal Medical.. the jab helped a lot.

Ok.. signing out now...

How to order?

2007-10-07T21:52:00.000+08:00

To order, email me at rani_sawant@hotmail.com. Indicate the design name, colour and leave me your contact number.

I will contact you and confirm delivery mode. As mentioned, you can also visit me to try out to see how it fits you. No obligation.

Thanks for your support.

Regards
Rani

Queen's Kurti Collections - Designer and Party Collections (2)

2007-10-07T16:00:00.000+08:00

NOTE: DRY Clean recommended.

Design name: DQ5

Size: Armpit to Armpit: 23cm
Length : 29cm
Colour: Black with Bronze Red stone work
Price: $40 (Special Price as only Single Piece available)

Design name: DQ6

Size: Armpit to Armpit: 20cm
Length : 20cm
Colour: Golden Yellow with intricate design on neck

Price: $40 (Special Price as only Single Piece available)

Design name: DQ7

Size: Armpit to Armpit: 19cm
Length : 27cm
Colour: Black with red floral work / Ivory with Beige floral work.

Price: $40

Note: This has a flowy (not sure if there is such a word :) effect when worn. Great to show those curves.

Design name: DQ8

Size: Armpit to Armpit: 21cm
Length : 28cm
Colour: Rose and Yellow - very unique stone work.

Price: $45

Queen's Kurti Collections - Designer and Party Collections (1)

2007-10-07T15:26:00.000+08:00

Note: 1st Wash Dry Clean preferred.

Design Name: DQ 3

Size : Armpit to Armpit : 22cm
Length: 35cm
Note: transparent sleeves and after waist design
Available colours: Pink and White. Black = Sold out!

Selling Price: S$60

Design name: DQ1

Size : Armpit to Armpit : 19cm
Length: 27cm

Available colours: Bronze, Black and hot Pink

Selling Price: S$30

Design name : DQ2

Size : Armpit to Armpit : 21cm

Length: 31cm

Available colours: Navy Blue, Apple Green - Sold out.

Note: This is a transparent piece and a inner wear is required.

Selling Price: S$45 (special price, only piece available)

Queen's Kurti Collections - Selected Accesories (Hand made Wrist Watch)

2007-10-07T15:05:00.000+08:00

Hand made Royal Blue and White Crystal Wrist Watch.

Selling Price : S$80
Note: Exclusive Piece only

Hand-made White and Black Crystal with Pearl Wrist Watch

Selling Price : S$80

Note: Exclusive Piece only

Queen's Kurti Collections - Casual Collection

2007-10-07T13:35:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

I finally completed taking all the pics.. Please view. You may contact me at rani_sawant@hotmail.com to view the selections and also to try them out.

Important instructions:

Washing : Dry clean the 1st wash and subsequent washing, it is preferred to do a hand wash.

Please wash seperate as colour may run on 1st wash.

Since material is cotton, it may shrink a little (as in all cotton materials)

Payment: Strictly cash in Singapore Dollars. No return policy upon purchase.

Your feedback valued, please send your feedback to rani_sawant@hotmail.com. Please quote design name in your feedback.

Causual Collection:

Price: S$14.50

Material: Cotton (Comfortable for daily use)

Size: Armpit to Armpit: 18.5cm

Length: 25cm

Design name: Q1

Note: Blue and Beige -- SOLD OUT! Available in Orange, Purple and Green.

Design name: Q2

Note: Colours on floral design. Available in Green and Orange.

Design name: Q3

Note: Colours available in Bronze -Orange and Gold Yellow-Green combination.

Next: Queen's Kurti Collection: Designer and Party Wear.

My 2nd customer : Melody Wee

2007-10-07T13:01:00.000+08:00

Hi..

Melody came to pass me my car insurance and road tax. And since she is here..why not show her the Kurtis I have for sale..

Within 5mins, Melody picked up 2 pieces of casual wear.. here are the pics..

First piece - a simple casual beige sleeveless kurti and

Second piece - same design in Blue colour

Both will go very well on a pair of jeans.. casual yet smart.

Thanks Melody!!

Ok.. Whatever I have balance now will be put up for sale shortly.

Cheers! God bless!

Regards

Rani

My 1st Customer : Aishah Shahul

2007-10-05T23:49:00.000+08:00

Hello all,
I am so thrilled to share this piece of news.. Today I made my very first sales.. My very first customer - my friend, Aishah Shahul.

Aishah was excited when I shared with her my desire to start this Kurti business and her support has inspired me further.

Thanks Aishah.. your presence, comments and most important, morale support makes the difference..

Here is what Aishah had purchased - pardon for the quality of the picture, it was taken from my Nokia phone.

Aishah purchased

1) Single piece of a party wear - The pink and blue combination with a chinese collar.

2) A designer wear, the Black and Blue combination with a low waist design that enhances onces height.

3) And an apple green transparent piece of a designer Kurti

Aishah has been kind to provide me a testimonial of the choices which I have. Its my pleasure to share with you the following transcript.

Oh yes.. I got my new Olympus FE270 camera this evening.. I will be uploading all the pics over this weekend..

Thanks everyone.. Thanks Aishah!!

Cheers!

I'm Back!

2007-10-05T10:57:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

I am back from my trip to Bangalore and Mumbai. It was a very good trip. I managed to pick up about 30 pieces of Kurtis ranging from casual to designer wear.

My camera stood on me and I will be investing in a brand new digital camera this week so I can quickly put up the pieces into this site and start the sales rolling.

Just some heads up on the stuffs which I have purchased...

1) Everyone will be interested to know the price range.. here's a breakdown:-

Casual wear : S$ 14.50
Party wear : ranges from S$25 to s$40
Designer wear : ranges from S$40 to S$60

2) Sizes will be indicated. Measurement will be based on armpit to armpit measurement and length of Kurti.

3) Washing instructions are included. Preferred Dry clean at least for the 1st wash.

4) Party and designer wear, as there are studded stones intact, preferred to dry clean and then hand wash.

5) Payment mode : Strictly cash on delivery.

6) If you like a certain design and it is sold out, you may place orders, my next shipment depending on the orders will arrive in Nov or early Dec (Just in time for Christmas).

I am eagerly waiting to put up the pics...

Cheers
Rani

Personal Selection of my goods

2007-09-11T19:12:00.000+08:00

Hello all..

I will be making a personal trip to select the stuffs which I will present to everyone.

I have made several contacts and will be seeing them personally. Just look out in early Oct as I will be back only end of Sept.

If you have any specific request, do write to me at rani_sawant@hotmail.com and I will try my level best to get what you want.

I should be in-time for the coming Hari Raya and Diwali. We all want to look good no matter what the occasion and my promise is to ensure we all, including me, as well, look good.

So, support me as I will only be glad to ensure I get what my customer likes..

Stay tuned folks... I will be right back..

Cheers
Rani

Authentic and Modern Indian Jewelleries

2007-08-29T17:43:00.000+08:00

Hello again..
Besides Kurtis, I will also be featuring both Authentic and Modern Indian made jewelleries.

If you don't already know, Indian jewelleries adds the touch of glamour to any outfit. In fact most of the designs you see out in the shop, especially those dangling once, are inspired by Indian.

You have a wide variety to chose from - Indian costume jewelry sets, Bangles, Rings etc..
Some of these are even handmade with dedicated craftsman who take pride to each tiny steps in the making process.

You'll be amazed that these jewellery goes very well on any outfit, be in Indian or otherwise. So stay tune..

More posting to come..
Both Kurtis and Accessories will be made available online by end of September. While Stock last.. Pictures will be made available on this site.

Cheers
Rani

Buddy # 2 - Deepa M Gawali

2007-08-22T10:16:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone..Buddy # 2

Introducing: Deepa M Gawali.

A little about this wonderful person whom I actually met through her husband: Milind Gawali.

Deepa is a very creative person who is modern in her likings and simple in her outlook. Alongside her daughter, Mithila, she looks very young and vibrant... some may mistake her as being sisters rather than a mother.

Her creativity expands to Mehndi, she is an expert in bridal Mehndi and has been called upon to offer her exclusive designs on many such occasions. Deepa used to run her own beauty parlor and since that took much of her time out from home, she has decided to leave the parlour business and do it occasionally from home.

Deepa’s forte includes designing kurtis tops and also Churidhar, salwar kameez. Infact, she wears her self made designs.

This journey will be including choices of a good friend.. The colors, materials, accessories will solely based on her choices and I believe this journey will be a long and fruitful journey.

This journey will be a journey together with Melvin (tips on the “how to” on internets) and Deepa (the product itself).

So, stay tune folks…

Buddy # 1 - Melvin Tan

2007-08-21T15:06:00.000+08:00

Melvin Tan Kok Liang. .That’s his full name.
We met while working in the pre-merger organization and we were instant buddies. Always rescuing each other in the course of our work. We had - I would say now - the most exciting job. If only we could play it back all over again.

Melvin and I met in the year 2000. We have been friends for almost good 7 years now. Mel - as he is affectionately known as - has a vast knowledge of business and his insights are the most interesting. Just have a conversation over coffee with him. Often he may share with you insights that you probably did not think of.

Mel has knowledge on how a Saloon should run, he once came to work with red hair... he had allowed his stylish to trial and error on him... Mel was once the "hippiest" person in the office -... often spotting the latest hairdo...

Mel then left the organization and ventured into a multi-level marketing and through this venture; he was in The Philippines for some time. Despite the distant, we kept in touch.

Mel has attended various motivational talks and he is always sharing his learning’s... see his website and you can understand what I mean.

Mel has now returned to Singapore and though he has a full time job, he encourages every one to live their dreams... and this is just want I want to do... explore my hidden talents.

Cheers and a virtual beer for you Melvin :)

Materials that are usually used for Kurtis Making

2007-08-20T21:39:00.000+08:00

There are various fabric that one can choose to make a Kurti, the most popular material would be Cotton. It gives the comfort especially in humid weather.

There are several fabrics to choose from.. and here's a list which I found through various research done on the net..

Fabrics ranging from:
1) Viscose
2) Georgette
3) Polyester georgette
4) Pure Crepe Silk
5) Crepe Silk
6) Linen
7) Silk
8) Satin
9) Cotton

You can choose your Kurtis to have embroidered or just plain. Each style is suiting to your life style and to your likings.

You can also have a designer made Kurtis. Usually these are worn for special occasions and it can be a very grand piece of outfit.

I am always in favour of a Kurti which can be elegantly worn to office and also to be carried off fabously over a drink at the pub. Be dazzle by the choices I have in my mind for you.

If you choosing a fabric, ensure it is suited for your climate, the region you are in. For eg, satin would not be appropriate for a cold climate as the material itself absords the coldness. It is a great choice for those of us who are nearest the equator :)

Silk has a tint of elegance and it is often the choice of many. Though it is costly in price, it is still a must to have.

Signing off now.. My next blog, I will introduce you to 2 very special people in my life who have inspired me to do this............preparing the write ups...

Queens Kurtis Collection

2007-07-31T16:58:00.000+08:00

Hi Folks..

This is Rani Sawant. I will be bring you to the journey of Kurtis where everyone from all shade and sizes will looks fabouslously cool in Kurtis to match your skin tone and size.

What are Kurtis? Here's the answer.

Some of us may know Kurtis as Kurta. Well Kurtis is the female version of Kurtas. A traditional Indian kurti is cut long, falling just below or above the knee, and it is often worn in combination with pants or jeans for the cool tinge of classic indian look.

As with many aspects of modern fashion, the styles of kurti available exemplify a wide range of cultural influences.

Kurtis can add glamour to any eveningwear. Simply match an embroidered kurti to an elegant, floor length skirt, or even a pair of pants. Finish this with a sophisticated authentic indian jewellery and carry yourself in style.For those who love dress down in elegance, there is nothing easier than combining a kurti with a favorite pair of jeans. A funky belt or a waist band shawl type belt would go just awesome.

I will be bring you a whole new world of Kurti Fashion the Queens style off course. And along with it, you will have the option to choose matching sets of accessories at discounted prices. So, look out for this site as when it comes to life, you will love your life too..

So, remember, feels good to look good.

Cheers
Rani

Queen

YEAH!! Its Friday!!

Back to Routine...

Breaking the routine

Lost but Found

Another Day in April 2011

Year 2010

Missing from blogging

Hello 2009

Singapore turns 43!

Tribute: Geraldine Thumboo

To all parents with teenagers.. Read this

Tribute: Chitra and Barbara

Tribute: Angeline Law aka Devil's Angel

Tribute: Melvin Tan and Joyce San Miguel

Tribute - My Friends who have inspired me one way or another

Nick's India Trip

Marathi Movie

Taxi Driver's Story - What an experience!

Officially Permanent Resident of Australia

There is someone made for everyone or is there?

Are you there yet?

Season for sickness

MIA on Blog

What's that sound??!!

Harrassment : True Yoga

Blink....

Best in JB and some says Batam

Answers, Christmas and many more..

The power of positive thinking - Receiving good news!

Quiz Questions - Answers anyone?

Christmas Dinner and Dance

Anyone has any Adoption Lobangs?

Everyone has one of those days...

The Holy Man and The Prostitute

Its the first Monday of the month of December..

Thank God its Friday

Back to Zee TV - my ultimate de-stressing source

When the boys meet...

Diwali at my sister's place - 17th Nov

Reunited

Just discovered - I lost my mobile

Another Vacation... a movie to de-stress myself...

Lost and Finding.......

Walking down memory lane.........Warning.. Some pictures may strain your eyes (lol!)

Diwali Diary .... Day 03 - what happens when the De Silvas, the Kesslars and the Francis meet...

Diwali Diary ... Day 02

Diwali Diary...... Day 01 - Continuation

Diwali Diary........Day 01

So many things to do.........

Christmas hype all over even before Diwali - *sigh* So much for equality!

Sneak Preview

New stocks ARRIVED

More of Zee TV Soaps - Teen Bahuraaniyaan

Mum-Daughter Look alike..

Soon it will be goodbye 2007

Visit to the Diwali Fair at Serangoon Road

Fan of Zee TV Soaps

Thanks for the Good news!

The De Haan Family

Sleepless Night and B Positive

New Look and more new designs coming soon

How to order?

Queen's Kurti Collections - Designer and Party Collections (2)

Queen's Kurti Collections - Designer and Party Collections (1)

Queen's Kurti Collections - Selected Accesories (Hand made Wrist Watch)

Queen's Kurti Collections - Casual Collection

My 2nd customer : Melody Wee

My 1st Customer : Aishah Shahul

I'm Back!

Personal Selection of my goods

Authentic and Modern Indian Jewelleries

Buddy # 2 - Deepa M Gawali

Buddy # 1 - Melvin Tan

Materials that are usually used for Kurtis Making

Queens Kurtis Collection

Christmas hype all over even before Diwali - sigh So much for equality!