Just another day – HEALTH FREAK MOMMY

Weekly Update: Busy Days and Exciting Adventures

The past week has been quite a whirlwind for me. I’ve been deeply engrossed in my writing work, juggling deadlines and trying to keep up with the pace. I managed to complete one batch of articles, only to have another, even larger batch come in from my client. Initially, I hinted that I might need a break, but my client was so accommodating to all my requests that I couldn’t say no. So, it looks like my break will have to wait another week. The silver lining is that my client agreed to a flexible deadline, which means I don’t have to rush through the work and can still carve out some time for exercise—a crucial part of maintaining my sanity amidst all the busyness!

On Alycia’s front, her finger is recovering well, which is a huge relief. She’s off to Taiwan for a holiday with her friends this Wednesday, and she’ll be gone for a week. Not stopping there, she has another trip lined up to Korea next month with a different group of friends. This semester break is truly a globetrotting adventure for Alycia, and she’s making the most of every moment.

To recap, this year Alycia has travelled to Singapore to watch Taylor Swift’s concert, to Hong Kong, and then to Bangkok with me. She’s traveling to Taiwan this month and to Korea next month. I can’t help but feel a bit envious, wishing I had done the same when I was her age but I was a workaholic. My rewards were my multiple promotions, Merit Awards and Merit Increments throughout the eight years that I worked in the bank. I But I’m so happy Alycia’s enjoying life to the fullest!

Sherilyn has also been keeping busy. She just completed her Foundation in Natural & Built Environment and is now enjoying a well-deserved month-long break before starting her first year of Bachelor of Science in Architecture. This break has been a chance for her to catch up on sleep, which I’m glad she finally has the time for. Today, she started a 4-day coffee-making class, sponsored by her university’s Barista Club, where she’s a member. I’m sure she’ll have a great time learning the art of coffee. Sherilyn is also active in her university’s dance club, and in two weeks, she’ll be competing in two international dance competitions, which are self-funded. I’m hoping she wins, as that would strengthen her application for a Talent Scholarship for her degree studies.

As for Cass, she’s been as busy as ever with her figure skating classes, heading to the rink three times a week. It’s great to see everyone so engaged in their activities, each pursuing their passions and interests.

All in all, it’s been a busy but fulfilling week for everyone. As I navigate through my writing projects and watch the girls dive into their respective pursuits, I’m reminded of how important it is to stay active and engaged in life. After all, you need to be healthy and energized to keep up with everything life throws your way!

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The Throes of Living in a Condo: A Cautionary Tale

Living in a condo has its perks—convenience, 24 hours security, shared amenities, and a sense of community. But it also comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when you find yourself surrounded by suspicious neighbors or inconsiderate people who overstep boundaries.

A month ago, a group of Chinese nationals moved into the unit next to ours. At first, it seemed like any other new neighbor situation, but soon, things started to feel off. Every day, I noticed new faces—always men—coming and going. They didn’t look like regular office staff. They would always avoid eye contact with me and would quickly go back to their unit when I came out of my unit. This raised my suspicions. From my phone, I could see more than 14 WiFi names in our vicinity, most of them in Chinese characters. The sheer number of WiFi networks and the constant influx of different men made me suspect something fishy was going on. Were they involved in illegal activities, perhaps even scammers?

The situation was further aggravated by their heavy smoking. The odor of smoke was so bad that it permeated our bedrooms, making it difficult to breathe. We weren’t the only ones suffering—neighbors from other floors also complained to the condo management. The guards came up one day and spoke to me about our neighbor, confirming that they too were aware of something amiss. The owner of the unit told the office that his unit was vacant but it was in fact occupied.

It wasn’t just us who were concerned. My other neighbor, who is on the condo’s committee, and I started gathering information. We teamed up with other suspicious neighbors and eventually decided to lodge a police report. The condo management also suspected something was wrong, which added weight to our concerns.

Long story short, I believe these men suspected they were being watched. Exactly a month after they moved in, they suddenly moved out yesterday. It was such a relief—not only were we no longer subjected to seeing new, unfamiliar faces walking in and out every day, but the air was finally clear of that awful second-hand smoke. The whole ordeal was a reminder that if something feels off with your neighbors, it’s crucial to stay alert and take action if needed. Making a police report could be the first step in addressing a potentially dangerous situation.

But the condo drama didn’t end there. Today, another incident reminded me of the importance of standing your ground. I keep a shopping trolley in my parking lot for convenience. After shopping today, I returned to find my trolley missing. I searched everywhere for it, suspecting the contractor working on the floor above ours, whose car was parked inconveniently close to mine, with his tires touching my parking lot and making it difficult for me to get out of my car.

Frustrated, I went up to my unit to see if anyone had taken the trolley up but couldn’t find it. When I finally went back down to the basement, there it was—the contractor was unloading his tools into his car using my trolley! I was enraged. He had taken my trolley without asking, causing me to waste time searching for it. When I confronted him, he nonchalantly claimed that he thought anyone could use it. What nonsense!

I immediately reported the issue to the chief guard, who reprimanded both the contractor and the owner of the unit. It was a small victory, but it reminded me of the importance of standing up for your rights, even in small matters.

Living in a condo can have its convenience, but it’s important to stay vigilant and protect your space. Whether it’s dealing with suspicious neighbors or inconsiderate individuals, taking action and standing your ground can make all the difference in maintaining your peace of mind.

No. of times viewed = 32

Random Updates

Hey y’all! I’ve been super busy lately – with work, celebrations, house work, and running the household. I’ve not been exercising regularly since two months ago, but still feel like I have a good workout everyday, from doing housework, running errands, running the house, and writing marathon. Some of my clients from China are very strict with deadlines and I am perpetually working my brain in full steam to submit my work. These clients are also very particular with the contents produced with strictly zero plagiarism and zero AI-content. And some of the topics are beyond my ken. Anyway, life goes on and writing I must as I need the moolah.

Just a short update today as I have to continue with my writing marathon. Here’s another K-pop dance video of Sherilyn and her dance team, shot at Starhill recently. If you can’t spot her, she’s the one with a double braided pony tail.

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Camera Crumbs

Last Saturday hubby had to work in the evening and couldn’t have dinner with us. Weekends are the only days that he gets to eat with us but if he has work, I will settle the girls’ dinner.

As I was busy and also lazy to cook and drive out for dinner, I ordered food from Shopee Food. I ordered Vietnamese noodle salad with grilled lemongrass chicken from Pho Viet for Alycia and Sherilyn. For Cass, she chose to order something different as I’ve always been ordering the same thing from Pho Viet. I’ve ordered food from other restaurants previously but none of the food really satisfied us as much as the food from Pho Viet. For food delivery orders, the food always didn’t taste as good as when eaten at the restaurant. Pho Viet is the only restaurant that never failed to satisfy us.

So Cass spent the morning browsing her Shopee app and finally ordered noodles in fish maw soup from one Yat Tong restaurant @ Kuchai Lama. I kept dissuading Cass not to order soupy noodles as I am not comfortable with hot soup being placed in plastic bags or containers. But this stubborn girl went ahead to order – with me paying 🙄

The noodles and soup were very impressive. The soup was packed in a single-use thick plastic pouch with a cap, which was leak-proof and very unique. The fish maw soup tasted and looked almost identical to the golden fish maw soup from Haidilao. The noodles had a generous serving of lean pork slices and bursting balls.

Fish maw noodles soup from Yat Tong restaurant, Kuchai Lama. Very tasty but I find the bursting balls very salty.

Cass also pan fried some meat dumplings to go with her bowl of soupy noodles.

Our greedy girl hoping to get a treat from her sister but nope, we don’t give her anything that’s salty.

Takeaway fish maw soup stored in this thick leak-proof plastic pouch with a sealed cap.

Supermoon on Monday. The moon was actually super huge but appears small in photo. My younger brother stays at one of the 3-block condos opposite ours. He recently moved in. It’s about 5-10 minutes’ walk from my condo.

New skirts from Shein. I didn’t intend to post the photos here. I took the photos to write a review on the Shein website to earn points (money). But I’m very pleased with the hot pink ruched bodycon short skirt and black midi tight skirt with thigh-high slit, thus my posting here to share. Both the skirts cost no more than RM80 and the quality is very good.

No. of times viewed = 24

Random Updates

I have been busy the past week – with work and house chores. As Alycia can only use one hand temporarily, I have to do almost everything for her, from prepping her food to washing all her dishes, washing her water bottle and filling up water for her, cut her fruits, do her laundry, and clean her room. I feel like her personal maid 😑. Maria is also back in Indonesia for her yearly holiday for three weeks.

My painful right tennis elbow is not getting any better with no rest of the hand at all. Alycia’s surgeon told me that it would take between 6 to 12 months for the hand to heal 😱.

I now get takeaway ‘chap fan’ dishes on most days. I find that buying ‘chap fan’ dishes is much cheaper than cooking at home. Things have gotten more expensive ever since the Government announced the cut in diesel subsidies. There are several ‘chap fan’ stalls in my hood and they serve really good dishes that aren’t too oily and salty. There’s also food from hubby’s kitchen almost daily. So I don’t cook much these days. But when I’m in the mood, I will marinate some chicken drummets and fish for air-frying or baking in the oven.

Marinated salmon belly for air-frying enough for the girls and me for two days.

Sherilyn’s air-fried salmon belly and shimeji mushrooms with salad to bring to college for lunch.

Cass’ grilled teriyaki saba with salad and avocado. After the announcement of cut in diesel subsidy, the price of this grilled saba fish increased by a Ringgit.

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Planning Our First DIY Trip to Bangkok

Last week has been a whirlwind of many tasks to accomplish as my eldest daughter and I embark on a new adventure—planning our first-ever DIY trip to Bangkok. With Alycia’s semester break soon coming to an end, we seized the opportunity to have a short holiday in Bangkok, taking on the challenge of organizing every detail ourselves.

As someone who has frequented Thailand numerous times in the past, I thought planning this trip would be a breeze. However, diving into the nitty-gritty of trip planning proved to be more complex than I anticipated.

From scouring the internet for the best airfares with convenient departure and arrival times to securing a nice hotel (with good Google reviews) at tourist hotspots, there was no shortage of tasks to tackle in the span of less than ten days. Gone were the days of relying on travel agents and my parents to handle the logistics—this time, it was up to us to navigate the intricacies of travel planning.

As of today, I have paid for the air tickets and booked the hotel (Novotel Platinum Bangkok).

In addition to booking flights and accommodation, there were several other essentials to take care of before our departure. Making trips to the banks to activate overseas usage for credit and debit cards, online purchasing a SIM card for Thailand use, online purchase of BKK transport cards, exchanging currency and booking entrance tickets (via Klook) to the places that we are planning to visit in Thailand were just a few items on our lengthy to-do list. As the countdown to our departure date dwindled, the pressure was on me to ensure that everything was in place for a smooth and seamless journey.

Alycia has been traveling pretty regularly lately and she’s no stranger to booking tickets and hotel online. She’s also adept at using Apple Maps to bring me around.

However, amidst the excitement of planning our trip, a new challenge emerged—a recent requirement stipulated by the Thai Embassy mandating travelers to carry a minimum of 15,000 Thai Baht (around RM2k) per person in cash upon entry into Thailand as proof of financial ability. This unexpected hurdle added an extra layer of complexity to our preparations, prompting concerns about compliance and logistics. I have since checked with friends who had just returned from Bangkok and all of them told me that they were not checked by the Immigration staff in Bangkok on the amount of cash that they brought in, which was less than the stipulated amount. It seems that the Immigration staff would conduct random checks on travelers.

As departure day draws near, my thoughts turn to my youngest daughter, Cass, who will be home alone when she returns from school in the afternoon. If hubby is busy with work, Cass will have to settle lunch on her own. Cass will also have to learn how to operate the washing machine and do other house chores during my absence. Being the youngest and not one who would willingly do house chores, I hope that she will learn to shoulder responsibilities during my absence.

On top of all these, my other big worry is Haru. Sherilyn is tasked to feed Haru breakfast and Cass has to take care of the dinner. Sherilyn will have to wake up earlier in the morning to feed Haru before rushing off to college. And both of them will have to take turns cleaning the litter box. I hope that these two busy girls will remember to feed Haru and take good care of their fur sister. I am surely going to send them lots of reminders when I am in Bangkok 😜

Despite the uncertainties and challenges that lie ahead, I’m filled with a sense of anticipation and optimism for the journey ahead.

With faith, determination, and a spirit of adventure, I have no qualms that Alycia and I will navigate Bangkok with ease and return home with hearts full of cherished memories. Here’s to new beginnings, unexpected challenges, and the joy of discovery that awaits us in the Land of Smiles. Wish us luck!

Snacks that Alycia bought from Hong Kong last week.

These are all for us while the rest is for her friends and colleagues. Everyone at home loves chocolates. The matcha is also for me, my favorite kind of tea.

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A Week of Whirlwind Adventures: From Passport Renewal to Last-Minute Travel Changes

This past week has been a whirlwind of activity, filled with everything from passport renewals to last-minute travel changes. To top it all off, I was down with a cold and a blocked nose, no thanks to the flu bugs from the mil and Sherilyn.

The week kicked off with a mission to renew my passport, a crucial step in preparing for an upcoming overseas holiday. However, the journey to the Immigration Department was not without its challenges. Despite waking up early on Monday and attempting to secure a queue number via the QMS app on my phone, I found myself thwarted by the limited availability of slots. By 6.30am, the numbers for all three UTC offices (Pudu, Keramat and Sentul) were already snapped up. I then enlisted the help of Alycia the following morning to help me stay glued to the phone to grab a queue number, and after a few hiccups, we managed to secure a spot at UTC Keramat, albeit not the location I initially intended. Hubby and I were hoping to get a queue number at UTC Pudu.

Fortunately, the waiting time at UTC Keramat was pretty fast. When we arrived at 8.30 a.m., the number that was called out was 9005 and my number was 9032, while hubby’s number was 9064. Within one hour, my passport was done and collected. I am impressed with the efficiency of the staff.

There’s a camera booth at every counter for instant photo-taking.

No cash and eWallet will be accepted for payment. Remember to bring along your credit card or debit card!

With passports in hand, the focus now shifted to planning our holiday. Alycia was eager to make the most of her semester break, and together we scoured for overseas tours. Meanwhile, amidst the hustle and bustle, I lent a helping hand to my mother-in-law as she prepared for her journey to Hong Kong and London. She will be away for four months. From organizing travel insurance to running last-minute errands for her, it was a flurry of activity before her departure. Alycia also went to Hong Kong, albeit on a different flight from her grandma. Alycia took Air Asia while the mil boarded Cathay Pacific, an hour difference in take-off time. Alycia will be spending a week in Hong Kong.

As plans for our trip began to take shape, fate threw us a curveball. A visit to the travel agency on Wednesday to book our Seoul trip ended in dismay as soaring airfares dashed our hopes of a getaway within my budget (RM12k for the entire trip). When the travel agency staff quoted me the price for two pax to Seoul, Korea a few days ago, it was about RM9k. But a few days later, the air fare shot up and now the price went up to about RM16k for the two of us. This is only for a 4D 3N stay in Seoul. It’s a crazy price to pay as in essence, we only have two full days in Seoul.

After we left the travel agency office, we walked to Pavillion KL for lunch at Ichiban. Alycia led the way with the help of Apple Maps, the default map system for iPhone. She used Apple Maps to help her get around Singapore when she was there recently for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert.

At the Sedunia Travel office in Bukit Bintang.

Despite our best efforts to find alternative options at Air Asia, the steep increase in prices during peak season left us reeling. The Air Asia’s flights are all at odd hours or with a stopover in Bangkok. April is spring time in Korea with sakura in full bloom and one of the best times to visit, thus the soar in air fare prices. After much deliberation and consultation with my parents and hubby, a spontaneous decision was made to switch gears and opt for Bangkok instead. I am still determined to go to Korea but will have to do so during non-peak months.

I have tasked Alycia to do the homework of searching for hotels near the places that we plan to visit, restaurants, and other essential information needed for our holiday in Bangkok for 3 nights and 4 days. She’s now in Hong Kong and very eager to do the homework coz it’s something that’s fun.

Today, as I celebrate my 51st birthday, I find myself reflecting on the whirlwind of events that transpired throughout the week. Despite the challenges and unexpected changes, there’s a sense of excitement and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. With plans to book our air tickets to Bangkok and finalize accommodation in the coming days, I’m reminded that life’s greatest adventures often begin with a leap of faith and a willingness to embrace the unknown.

No. of times viewed = 53

Sunday, 25 February 2024

Today is the last Sunday of February 2024. And just in the blink of an eye, Chinese New Year is over and February is coming to an end. February has always been an eventful month with Chinese New Year and my dreaded yearly medical check-up and pap smear procedure. Tomorrow will be my appointment at my gynae’s clinic for pap smear, ultrasound and transvaginal scan. Never liked these scans and test 🤪. I still have some issues that need monitoring.

Lunch today is at Wai Kee, our favorite Hakka tai chow style restaurant. The chef is a lady in her 70s, helming the kitchen for decades. I’m always amazed with her grit, stamina and vitality for shouldering the challenging job of being the head chef in the super hot kitchen.

Our favorite Hakka dishes ~ braised pork belly with yam, Hakka yong liu, stir-fried choy sum and half a steamed village chicken with ginger sauce.

Everyone’s favorite – crispy skin deep fried threadfin fish with soy sauce.

After lunch, we went to Red Kettle, our favorite cafe for coffee and the best Portuguese egg tart in the world. Also bought a loaf of walnut sourdough bread.

My latest fitness tracker ~ a new Xiaomi Mibro C2 smart watch from Shopee. Love this watch with plenty of cool & cute watch faces to choose from. The battery (magnetic charging) is very long lasting too. It comes with many functions but I only track my steps and heart rate. It’s a great smart watch for someone who is obsessed with counting their daily steps 🏃‍♀️ The best part is it only costs RM129 with free shipping and a RM10 shop voucher. I hope I will remember to remove it from my shorts pocket before putting my shorts into the washer. My Fitbit conked out as it went into the washer several times 🤪

The watch comes with two straps – a black by default and another color of your choice.

No. of times viewed = 17

Wednesday, 21 February 2024 ~ Cass’ HPV Vaccination & Excursion At The Exchange TRX

Malaysia’s Ministry of Health has been giving the HPV immunization for free for all girls in Form 1 (aged 13). However, the HPV vaccination program in schools was suspended since 2021 due to the lack of global vaccine supply. Thankfully this year, the supply has been replenished and the free vaccination program can be resumed.

The HPV vaccine helps protect against human papillomavirus (HPV). It’s recommended for children aged 12 to 13 years old and people at higher risk from HPV.

Today I accompanied Cass to a government clinic for her first dose of government-sponsored HPV vaccination. Little did we know that what started as a walk-in medical appointment would turn into a memorable adventure exploring the newest lifestyle hub in Kuala Lumpur, The Exchange TRX.

Our journey to the government clinic at Jalan Hang Tuah was not without its hiccups. It took us almost an hour to reach the clinic, even though it wasn’t very far from us. After encountering a canceled Grab ride and a Grab driver who lost his way, we arrived just in time, breathing a sigh of relief as we beat the lunchtime rush.

At Klinik Ibu Dan Anak Hang Tuah for Cass’ free HPV vaccine.

Surprisingly, the vaccination process was super swift, with almost zilch wait time. Everything was done within 10 minutes, plus a 15-minute observation period post-vaccination. However, I couldn’t help but question the logic behind filling out a detailed form as a parent when it’s the child receiving the vaccine. The form required me to answer questions such as whether I have any diseases, allergies, depression and easily get upset. Shouldn’t it be the child who has to answer these questions instead of the parent? 😂

Post-vaccination, Cass eagerly suggested a trip to Petaling Street aka Chinatown, but my concerns about the scorching heat (as Cass had just taken a jab which I wasn’t sure would have any adverse reaction) led us to The Exchange TRX instead.

Our first stop was the food court, where Cass was drawn to a Yong Tau Fu stall displaying a wide assortment of fish balls, noodles, tofu, mushrooms, etc. Despite the hefty bill of RM42.40 for just the two of us and lackluster taste, we pressed on, determined to make the most of our outing. We didn’t finish the Yong Tau Fu as some of the items were sour and tasted funky.

Our RM42.40 bowl of Yong Tau Fu liu, which tasted MEH. The items that were supposed to be fried were not fried. They were just blanched and added into a bland tasting chicken soup.

Fortunately, our spirits were lifted by indulging in Hey Tea’s strawberry jasmine tea and All About Chew’s heavenly chocolate cookie. Despite the steep prices, the delectable treats made it worth every penny. The Big Ass Softy (BAS) dark chocolate cookie at RM15 per piece was so divine that despite the hefty price tag, I bought another piece to bring home for Alycia and Sherilyn to try. The Big Ass cookie was love at first bite for both Cass and me. It has everything that we look for in a cookie.

The Big Ass Softy (BAS) chocolate cookie (RM15/piece) was da bomb – soft chewy buttery cookie with bits of dark chocolate and walnuts.

We waited for almost half an hour for our jasmine tea strawberry drink. According to Alycia that night, Heytea (a China tea chain) is the newest tea craze amongst Gen Zs. Her friends waited for 1-2 hours for their tea.
Heytea opened its first store in Malaysia at the Exchange TRX shopping centre in Kuala Lumpur in late 2023.

Energized, we ventured to TRX City Park, a verdant oasis atop the mall, braving the sweltering heat for a glimpse of nature in the heart of the city. With its array of attractions including playgrounds, water features, cave play, and alfresco dining, clean walking treks, TRX City Park offers a welcome respite from the urban hustle. After exploring the park and satisfying Cass’s curiosity at Kinokuniya bookstore, we headed home, cherishing the memories made during our impromptu adventure.

The Exchange TRX is a blend of unexpected twists and delightful discoveries. While the mall itself offers a typical shopping experience, its rooftop park provides a refreshing escape.

SEIBU, the luxury department store from Japan, has made its debut in Malaysia for the first time at The Exchange TRX.

Zones at TRX City Park. Very nice park for people of all ages. Would be enjoyable to stroll at the park when the weather is cooler in the early mornings or evenings.

Many eateries, cafes and restaurants with alfresco dining at the park.

No. of times viewed = 52

Our Sunday, 21 January 2024

Can’t believe that today is the second last Sunday of January 2024. This means February and CNY are upon me very soon. And this means that Haru’s going to be separated from me soon. I have two months to prep myself mentally for Haru’s first ever boarding and I’ve been praying hard that all will go well for my precious kitty.

On a more positive note, I can’t wait to be back in Ipoh to have reunion meals with my family. My eldest brother’s family from Singapore will be back too. I’ve not seen his 3 kids since CNY 2020, the year the pandemic started. The last time we saw the twins, they were still toddlers. Now they’re in primary one, which means I won’t be able to carry them anymore. They’re no longer babies. Where did all the time go?

Today we had lunch at Seoul Korea again. This is our top favorite restaurant for authentic Korean food as the restaurant is run by a family of South Koreans. Dining at Seoul Korea always gives us 100% satisfaction, so much that we even buy their delicious banchan (appetizers) back.

Our favorite boiled pork. The pork has zero seasoning yet the natural taste of pork belly is very flavorful with melt-in-the-mouth flesh.

Someone rushing to complete her assignment. She’s drawing a building plan here.

So proud of this girl for earning a place on the Dean’s List in her first semester. Praying that she’ll do as well in her subsequent semester exams to earn a scholarship from the university.

No. of times viewed = 16

Tuesday, 23 January 2024

A surprise awaited all the durian lovers in the house as hubby arrived home unusually early in the evening, bearing the king of fruits—durian, my absolute favorite. He bought the durians from a newly opened durian buffet shop, just a few doors away from his office.

Surprises continued as hubby proposed a trip to the supermarket, a routine part of his catering preparations. I love going grocery shopping with hubby as he’s usually very generous when we’re at the supermarket 😁. With groceries secured, hubby had a sudden craving for Japanese cuisine and he suggested a pitstop at a Japanese restaurant near the supermarket. Sushi, the epitome of culinary artistry, graced our table in the form of a platter of raw delights, along with a bowl of Chawan Mushi.

Having already eaten my evening meal earlier at 4 p.m, I opted to watch hubby relish the Japanese feast. As usual, I could resist the allure of my favorite food, even when it sat temptingly in front of me.

Amidst the muted colors of the restaurant, we engaged in heartfelt conversations, the ambient hum providing a backdrop to our tête-à-tête. After dinner, we went our separate ways – he went back to his office and I went home to finish off the remaining house chores for the day.

No. of times viewed = 17

An Eventful Start To December

Saturday, 2 December 2023 ~ We had a wedding lunch to attend today at Noble Mansion, PJ. Hubs had to send finger food to the restaurant for the pre-lunch cocktail, then return to his shop to do preparation for another catering event, and then pick us up to go to the restaurant. But his car battery went flat and all his plans went haywire. I had to take a Grab car with the girls to the restaurant.

At the restaurant, Alycia realized that the strap of one side of her heels snapped! And minutes later, the strap of the other side of the heels snapped too! It was a pair of Alain Delon heels that I bought for her in December 2019 for a wedding dinner. Then came the pandemic and the pair of heels were not worn for 4 years. The heels that were only worn once still looked 99.9% brand new.

Before the 2nd December wedding lunch, I took out all our heels to inspect them thoroughly and walked around in them. I was very worried that the heels would break apart as this had happened to me many times when I wore heels that were not worn for a period of time. The pair of AD heels seemingly looked sturdy and I told Alycia that she didn’t need new heels. And as luck would have it, my greatest worry eventuated.

The Hydrolysis of the heels didn’t end there. The devil’s own job next targeted me! As I was walking to the washroom, I felt air on one side of my heels. To my horror, the outer sole was detached from the shoe and flapping away as I walked. From the washroom, I walked slowly back to my table and to my ultimate horror, the sole was already gone! My pair of heels were also bought in December 2019 for a wedding and also only worn once.

Fortunately I could still walk without the outer sole. Alycia and I had a good laugh throughout lunch over our misfortune and somehow, we managed to walk back to the car with our shoes on, which was right outside the building.

After we got home from the restaurant, the girls and I went to Mid Valley Megamall to shop for new heels and clothes as we have another wedding dinner to attend on 9th December. We only got home late in the evening. What a tiring day for me!

My advice to those who plan to wear old shoes to an important function is to keep an extra pair of shoes in your car. Alternatively, before the day of the function, bring your pair of heels to the cobbler to have the soles sewn for reinforcement. If your budget permits, it’s always nice to buy a pair of new shoes.

Monday, 4 December 2023 ~ It was another ordinary morning and I was in the kitchen. There was 5 more minutes on my washer’s cycle when I got jolted by an extremely loud ‘explosion’. After the ‘explosion’, the spinning on my washer got out of control. The washer was spinning uncontrollably with deafening cacophonous sounds.

Minutes later, the smell of plastic/rubber burning filled the kitchen. As I opened the washer’s door, smoke emanated from inside the tub. I was shocked and I knew that my 6-year old Teka’s life was coming to an end. I had just spent RM500+ to repair and clean the washer in August this year and now another serious issue cropped up.

Long story short, hubby and I decided that we should not repair the washer anymore.

Tuesday, 5 December 2023 ~ Today is Alycia’s 20th birthday! But I wasn’t in the right mood to celebrate as I had to organize the huge pile of dirty laundry and go to TBM to shop for a new washer.

After spending 2 hours at TBM contemplating between LG and Electrolux, I ended up with a Panasonic instead. It’s a 10kg front-load washer with touch screen panel and AI-powered at almost RM2,600. We’ll be receiving the new washer tomorrow.

According to the store assistant who attended to me, washers and electrical appliances these days are built to last for 5-6 years, unlike older models that can last up to 10 years and beyond. Older appliances were made to be repaired but newer ones are made to be replaced.

At TBM, there was a husband and wife couple who were also shopping for a washing machine as their washer also conked out yesterday.

We had a late birthday lunch at around 1.30 p.m. at a Japanese restaurant, after which we segued into LDG for the cake cutting ceremony.

Today is my mum’s cataract surgery of her other eye. The surgery on the first eye was performed one week ago.

My apologies for not completing this post with photos of all the food from the wedding dinner and Alycia’s birthday lunch. I’m rushing to end this post to video call my mum to check on her after her surgery today.

No. of times viewed = 28

My Friday Fright ~ A Case of Misunderstanding and Missteps

4 August 2023 ~ The morning started with my washing machine technician suddenly turning up at my door to fix an unresolved issue that was reported to him a month back but he only came to fix it today. While waiting for him to check on my washer, I reached for my phone, expecting the usual barrage of notifications. Among them, one message stood out like a red flag. An SMS informed me of an amount for a RM682 order on GoLive Asia, with the first installment billed to my credit card via Atome. My heart raced, and my mind immediately jumped to the dreaded conclusion: I was a victim of credit card fraud.

Barely catching my breath, I opened my email to find an official confirmation from Atome, detailing a $2,046 transaction to be split across three installments. Panic coursed through my veins as I connected the dots – I was under attack by a fraudster. The scam that had befallen Alycia just several days ago loomed large in my memory, intensifying my fear and disbelief.

With my heart pounding, I dialed my bank’s customer service number, eager to block my credit card and prevent further unauthorized transactions. Unfortunately, fate seemed to conspire against me as I was put on hold due to the high call volume. The clock ticked away, and every passing minute increased the risk of more fraudulent charges being made.

Nearly 40 minutes later, a real person’s voice finally graced my ears. Frustration mingled with anger as I chastised the bank representative for the seemingly endless wait. I hurriedly explained my predicament – a victim of online credit card fraud – and demanded the immediate cancellation of my card.

Just as I was engrossed in my heated conversation with the bank, another call disrupted the chaos – Sherilyn (who was at work) was on the line. Her voice carried a mix of concern and urgency as she had just read my Whatsapp message to our family chat group on my supposed online credit card fraud. It was then that the bombshell dropped – Sherilyn was the one responsible for the seemingly fraudulent transactions.

Stunned, my anger turned from external forces to a more personal target – my own daughter. The realization that my daughter had used my credit card without my knowledge left me feeling deceived, and scammed by the very person I trusted. Amidst scolding Sherilyn and continuing my conversation with the bank, I grappled with an array of emotions, from disappointment to fury.

As Sherilyn explained her side of the story, a clearer picture emerged. She had purchased concert tickets for herself and her friends, opting to pay through Atome. Unbeknownst to her, my credit card details were still linked to her Atome account from a past transaction I had helped her with. Her recent attempt to update her payment method had not overridden the default setting, leading to the unintended use of my card. Sherilyn had to choose which card (my credit card or her debit card) to make payment with and she failed to check this area. Corroded by guilt for being careless, Sherilyn immediately transferred the full amount of RM2046 to my bank account even though only RM682 was charged to my credit card.

In the end, what initially seemed like a horrifying case of fraud turned out to be a series of unfortunate events and miscommunication. As the dust settled, I realized the importance of open communication and maintaining awareness of our digital footprints. My anger subsided, replaced by a mix of relief, understanding, and a commitment to prevent similar incidents in the future.

I continued with the cancellation of my current credit card and am now awaiting a new card from the bank. Thankfully no charges are incurred for the new card. I have also withdrawn the report on the fraud case. The customer service staff who was on the line with me heard my heated conversation with Sherilyn on another phone and I think she must be shaking her head in disbelief, thinking that I was really scammed by my own daughter 😂

My Friday fright, while initially a tale of fraud and panic, transformed into a lesson in family communication, digital vigilance, and the unpredictability of life’s twists. As the weekend dawned, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the irony of it all – a frightening ordeal that ended with a big sigh of relief and an important lesson that Sherilyn and I have learned.

No. of times viewed = 39

Random Updates

With my car temporarily out of commission, the mundane task of grocery shopping and buying food became a good workout. Walking to the supermarket and eateries each day not only fulfilled my practical needs but also allowed me to soak up the sun’s rays. As a result, my limbs and face sport a charming bronze tan, a testament to the resilience and determination that led me through the unforgiving heat. The daily walks to the shops also had an unexpected benefit – my arms grew firmer from lugging bags of groceries back to my condo, a feat that left me feeling stronger and more accomplished.

Hubby’s central kitchen had an abundance of delectable dishes from the daily catering events, sparing MIL and me from the usual cooking routine. From delicious chicken rendang to chicken Kuzi and an array of cakes and kuih, each meal was a celebration of flavors. And a celebration of being spared from cooking and cleaning up a greasy kitchen 😄

My favorite chicken Kuzi from Catermate.

From top clockwise: Bakwan (Indonesia fried veggie fritters, very yummy!), curry puffs, fried Singapore meehoon and fried chicken. All from hubby’s kitchen.

Pan-fried assam big prawns and kuih, from hubby’s kitchen.

Just as I had adjusted to my car-less routine, Sunday brought a welcome surprise – the return of my trusty vehicle. The sense of freedom and convenience it provided was a stark reminder of the role it plays in my daily life. With my car back in action, I could once again navigate the city’s roads with ease and embrace the comfort of my familiar ride. However, I still walk to the shops in the mornings or evenings instead of driving the car, just to soak up some Vitamin D, have a good sweat out, and fulfill my daily minimum of 10,000 steps.

Amidst the everyday adventures, there were also moments of personal milestones. A visit to Cass’ high school on Saturday morning to collect her report card revealed her impressive academic progress, while also highlighting areas for growth.

The weekend took an extravagant turn with a birthday dinner at The Ming Room, Bangsar Shopping Centre on Saturday night, where we gathered to honor hubby’s aunt on her 70th birthday. The opulent spread featured delicacies like double-boiled whole abalone soup with fish maw, roast Iberico pork ribs, steamed Soon Hock fish, and longevity birthday noodles with prawns, a feast that tantalized the taste buds and created lasting memories.

Starter: fried lobster ball and ice plant salad, individually plated.

A bowl of double boiled abalone and fish maw soup for everyone.

Chilled lime juice to accompany the Iberico pork ribs. The two young chaps here are hubby’s teenage cousins from England.

Steamed Soon Hock fish with meat floss and ‘choy po’

Sauteed ‘lai park’ veggie with Chinese sausage.

A birthday celebration for the seniors often ends in a sweet note with a sweet dessert and ‘shao tou baos’ or longevity peach buns, a symbol of longevity and good health.

Inside the huge peach bun are many smaller peach buns, signifying many children, grand children and great grand children.

From daily walks under the sun and lugging heavy groceries to indulgent feasts and collecting report card, the past week has been a whirlwind of diverse adventures.

No. of times viewed = 59

Random Updates: A Week in Our Lives

Cass received wonderful news this week. With hard work and determination, she secured the 5th position in her class, showcasing an improvement from her previous exam. As parents, I couldn’t be prouder of her commitment to her studies. I know she has the potential to achieve even greater heights, and will continue to support her every step of the way.

Next Saturday brings another significant event as I attend Cass’s high school Parents’ Day. This occasion provides the opportunity to collect her report card and meet her class teacher. It will be my first time meeting her teacher and collecting her report card as the previous two years were conducted online.

Meanwhile, Sherilyn, embarked on an exciting adventure from today to the weekend as she has gone to the Good Vibes Music Festival at Sepang International Circuit. It’s a 3-day music festival filled with good vibes. There will be almost 50 artists in the lineup, among them are Sabrina Carpenter, Lullaboy, Jake Scott, Goldfish, and many more.

Surrounded by music, dance, and thousands of attendees, Sherilyn is bound to create unforgettable memories with her dance mates and friends. However, with the open-air venue, exposure to the elements is inevitable. To prepare, Sherilyn purchased a raincoat and a power bank, ensuring she remains comfortable and connected throughout the three-day festival.

While it’s tempting to stay until the end, her dad and I encouraged her to return a day earlier, prioritizing her well-being and safety. I will be constantly worried about her in such a huge event. Memories of the stampede that occurred during the Halloween festivities in Seoul last year still send shivers down my spine. At least 159 people were killed and 196 others were injured in the stampede. Sherilyn’s dad has more morbid thoughts than me and I shall not elaborate further here 😛

In the midst of my girls’ adventures and achievements, I embrace the joys of mundane life as a housewife. The heartwarming presence of my beloved pet cat, Haru, adds immeasurable joy and companionship to my days.

Grab dinner from La Juiceria, my favorite cafe that serves healthy meals on one of the week days this week.

Sherilyn made this indulgent chocolate cake for her grand aunt’s birthday. She started the preparation yesterday evening and finished the decor this morning, just before leaving for Sepang to attend the Good Vibes music fest.

Haru’s new activity now – sitting at the bench at the house entrance at night to wait for her beloved sisters and daddy to come home.

No. of times viewed = 41

Tuesday, 30 May 2023 – Indulging in Unhealthy Delights on a School Holiday

With the school holidays in full swing, I decided to bring Cass to try a new sundae ice cream from a truck. It’s a new kid on the block in our hood and the sundae truck is parked right outside Family Mart. Such an icy cold daring move 😅

We began our morning by taking a leisurely walk from the supermarket car park to the sundae ice cream truck. The walk is about 10 minutes one way and under the unforgiving sun in the current heatwave. The anticipation of savoring creamy, delicious soft-serve was growing with every step we took. However, much to our disappointment, when we reached the truck, it was not yet open for business. Again! This is the second time that we wanted to try the sundae but the truck wasn’t opened yet.

Nonetheless, we were undeterred from making the most of our day. As Family Mart was just a whisk away, we redirected our footsteps to this store. We wasted no time and eagerly ordered our matcha sofuto, eager to indulge in the delightful green tea flavor.

When Cass walked to the chiller aisle, she couldn’t help but notice the tantalizing array of onigiri, sandwiches, and pre-cooked bento boxes on display. I was hoping that she wouldn’t ask for any of these unhealthy items but her eyes gleamed with excitement. I’ve never encouraged our girls to buy chilled pre-cooked fast food from Family Mart. But today I relented as it’s the school holidays and school holidays are meant for a little indulgence, right? 😊

Thus, our breakfast took an unexpected turn as we treated ourselves to a combination of soft-serve ice cream, onigiri, and pre-packed sandwiches. While it may not have been the healthiest start to the day, the joy on Cass’s face was worth it. We savored each bite, relishing the rare treat and embracing the joy of spontaneity. It allowed us to step away from our usual routines and simply enjoy the present moment together.

After our breakfast at Family Mart, we walked back to the supermarket to get some veggies and eggs. And then we walked to the Kopitiam to get our takeaway lunch.

Onigiri and sandwich. The crabmeat + egg mayo sandwich was pretty yummy too.

No. of times viewed = 46