31.12.13 - Final Count Down!

Tonight we have a Full House for the Final Count Down to usher in 2014. Yeah! Feeling happy and excited with loved ones - Mr Right, Mr & Mrs Mavericks and Ms EL :D

The trios arrival @ MIA. Once they reached home @Qurum 29, a spread of Mom's dinner was waiting for them. Among others were Mr Maverick's favourite ketam masak lemak cili padi with ayam goreng halia and ikan masak kicap for Ms EL. On 31st morning they had cheesy potato wedges, crepe and ice cream as desserts @Chet2Restaurant near Qurum Beach after a hearty breakfast omelette with grilled hotdogs and turkey bacon specially prepared by Dad! A few hours later after sumptuous lunch at Mersin in MGM, they had fun time with full of laughter playing Monopoly at home. It was truly blissful and wonderful feeling to see them laughing together. Alhamdulillah.

Homemade foodies for grown up kiddos!

Happy faces of loved ones in home-sweet-home with our lovable feline Gary*

Celebrating New Year with Loved Ones @Chet2 overlooking the Gulf of Oman in a cool blessed breezy midnight. A truly memorable way to welcome the new year with wonderful feelings in our hearts filled with true love for ongoing beautiful days ahead of us and with supplications for more prosperity and blessings from Allah SWT. Amin.

Nothing like Family

Family means You and I

Awesome bothers and sisters 

Mom, Dad and children

Also all in-laws in heaven

Parents and many siblings

Make up my loving family

A generation of three

Grandma, Mom and Me!

Families refer to roots

It's where we come from

Me from village and you from town

We meant to meet safe and sound

Two gifts meant for children

One is roots and other is wings

Quality time spent with happy feelings

With my kiddos, we went viewings!

There is nothing like family

Surrounded by awesome kiddos

They made us laughed with kuddos

Like being drugged or overdozed!

These beautiful words are taken from FB Wall. TQ to the 'Anonymous Poster!'

BraveNewWorld: Photo-Collage and X-Tra

In life, learning never ends ...

In this digital age, one must not just sit on his or her laurels only. I strongly believe that we must continue to strive for excellence. If not being the best, one must be better than just good! This applies to me particularly on matters relating to computer-savvy, know-how on Internet and anything digital. Hence, I'm truly fortunate to be assisted by my loved ones who visited me during winter season and spent their precious times with Mummy and Daddy here - in this blessed land full of happy faces and memorable moments to cherish! 

My gratitude to Allah SWT for granting me these valuable and memorable days. Alhamdulilah. Also to my learned grown up and considerate children who took time to 'teach' Mommy valuable knowledge about new things on snapshots via mobiles and P-Collage. That was extremely awesome and I am truly grateful for the new information which is useful for my 'pictorial' blogging. Their two weeks with me was amazing and quality time spent together. Well, not just bonding time over foodies and excursions, also learning times about each other. TQ Kiddos for diligently showed your fifty-something Mommy to embrace new technology and slowly took my hands to BraveNewWorld!

This Self Photo-Collage was taught by my dearest and wonderful kiddos! Well, I read @FB Wall (free-drama tumblr) this statement: "Without humor life is boring. Without love life is hopeless. Without friends like you life is impossible". But, I'd like to add here, without my lovable kiddos, my life would be miserable! Thank You very much kiddos for being here with Mommy :))

On her second day after her arrival, I told Ms EL that I've written some write-ups in my blogs to which she agreed and replied that she had read some of them. Then I continued that I wasn't happy with the pictures which I posted and wished to learn more on how to improve them. She quickly said, "Mommy, it's easy!" In a split second she immediately taught me how to do it. "Wallah! That's truly easy and awesome" was my happy respond. Indeed, she taught me the very basic ways on how to produce collage pictures. And, since then I never looked back and kept producing collage pictures into my blogs. 

But tonight, I learnt another step or an advanced level of photo collage from my son Mavericks.  Instead of just the first 'grid' I could scroll and choose other grids too which was extremely awesome and amazing experience to encounter :D Alhamdulilah, I am learning new things again. Similarly, my DiL taught me about new things in blogging. I could write in my iPad, too if I wish rather than just confined to my iPhone. Also there are many ways to 'beautify' my blog if I wanted to although I still prefer the simplest method which I am already used to! 

But, most importantly the thought by all of them - the Generation Y to share their knowledge with me strongly touched my heart and soul. The almost thirty years difference between us was never a gap where knowledge is concerned. Like love, knowledge knows no boundaries. For those who wish to learn, they know nought the word enough. As long as their minds are open, insyallah with Allah SWT will and grace, they'll be rewarded with the knowledge they seek and later to be shared with others, too! For I also believe the more we share, the more we get; and the more we care, the happier we are. To my lovable kiddos, TQ once again for the care and share your knowledge with Mommy. Thus, I start the Year 2014 with a Bang! Yeah :D

The Beautiful People in My Life so called Loved Ones! I truly love them :D

Hunting 4 Sunset

When two hearts meet and the quest is to hunt for sunset, one shouldn't be surprised with the outcome - a truly picturesque and beautifully crimson sun slowly disappearing itself below the western half of its horizon:

It was on a Saturday afternoon. Mr Right and I together with Lisa had an early lunch in Malin Restaurant @Marina Bandar Al Rowda. We had sumptuous luncheon where mine was smoked salmons baguette, Lisa's was lasagne and Mr Right chose beef sandwich. Since the weather was breezy and cool, all of us chose hot drinks in lieu of our favorite signature drinks lemon mint! After  filling our bellies with the hearty lunch, we waited for the other friends Mrs Sonny, Mrs SS, Mrs JZ and etc etc before boarding the Omani dhow for a four hour cruise hunting for sun set :D 

Indeed, it was a memorable excursion with many laughters, ouch! wek-wek! and dizzy heads leaning over tough shoulders. Lisa suffered from sea-sick the moment the dhow slowed its pace on the choppy water. She slept throughout the trip and did not enjoy the excursion nor the beautiful sunset. Me too, succumbed to the no longer placid seas unlike the few previous trips where I was sturdy and not feeling dizzy and seasick at all! To make it worst was the smell of the smoke and oil from the dhow's engine :( But, I was lucky since I learnt the tricks or tips from HRH to not feeling sick after vomiting by drinking two cans of coke drinks just before letting go of the emesis! Hence, I enjoyed the cruising and more often than not gazing at the flock of doves flying above us. 

By 5pm the crimson sun made its disappearing act and slowly but surely disappeared. I was fascinated by the view which was truly captivating and enchanting. The spread of crimson colour to mandarine to light yellowish with the bluish and greyish sky as its backdrop was a Wow Factor! Also the reflection from the emerald water added to the panorama that made the whole process of sunset truly picturesque and brought nostalgic feelings to the viewers and the believers. The Creator is perfect. And, my gratitude to Allah SWT for Alhamdulilah I was one of the fortunate beings to capture the fascinating view with my loved ones surrounded by caring friends. Amin. The Hunting 4 Sunset expedition was successful and Thank You to my friends especially Mrs SS who arranged the excursion that turned the hunting expedition into a reality and truly a memorable experience :D

In the Star of The Sea Dhow - Hunting 4 Sunset! 

When two hearts meet and surrounded by bluish sea and turquoise sky with a flock of whitish doves and crimson sun turning to mandarin and yellowish shades, the result was genuine smiles on the faces of the love birds!

The various scenarios in the dhow. Happy Moments & Eating Times versus the  Dizzy Heads on Strong Shoulders when the water no more placid but choppy while hunting for sunset. Yet, no one was discouraged until mission accomplished! Bravo Friends :D

Beautiful scenery at sea and various images captured in the dhow which truly reflect the popular saying: a picture tells a thousand words!

An evening to remember ... Great time spent with friends in Star of The Sea***

Festive Season with Friends

Towards the end of the year, we celebrated festive season with friends in Muscat. As compared to last year's XMas and New Year celebrations where we headed for whitish snow in London, this year we celebrated with closed friends in cool wintery season in the Sultanate. But, it was enjoyable and exceptionally awesome! 

First, we celebrated the Pre-XMas with RJ @MirbatCrib. We had sumptuous Laksa Sarawak among the delicious cuisines served on the memorable Coffee Morning in her cosy 'Arabian' home surrounded by cheerful international friends. Next, we were invited to Mrs MG's home-sweet-home at Azaiba on XMas Day for hi-tea! There, we were enjoying her home-cooked turkey. It tasted good with original gravy. Truly not bad for a first timer. Bravo Dear Mrs MG! For X-Mas dinner we headed to Mr & Mrs Charles home also in Azaiba. We also had turkey which was very tender and delicious specially prepared by the host himself! Other yummilicious cuisines include Mexican taco and Malaysian rojak buah and karipap. With the soothing background music serenading us while having our dinner with black and red theme that made it more appetizing and without realizing we were already on our fourth helpings. Whoosh, there went our diet but surely not regrets. LOL :D

Post XMas dinner was held at Mr and Mrs SS at Mawaleh. This time the theme was blue and it coincided with their son's 10th Birthday Bash. All came in blue and the deco for that memorable night was all midnight blue. Truly stunning! Since we had enough of turkey, here our lovely host and hostess prepared an authentic Malaysian cuisines which include aromatic white rice, kuah lemak kuning, ayam masak kicap, sambal sotong, ikan goreng masam manis, sotong goreng tepung and ikan bilis pedas. Wow! All tasted good and all the invitees truly enjoyed the sumptuous dinner. And, most of all we had a special dessert 'Putu Mayam' specially prepared by the ever sweet hostess Mrs SS for us! In fact, I ate the desserts first long before the actual main foodies :))

The delicious Putu Mayam prepared by Mrs SS. I had not one but four helpings!

Well, who could resist this special treat? The yummilicious 'Putu Mayam' or the people in Southern India called it 'Idi Apom' which reminds me of the good old days @home-sweet-home when the Putu-Mayam-Man came by his bike to sell the delicious foodies! I love this dessert which was made from steamed rice flour and ate with gula merah and fresh kelapa parut! To the hostess, Mrs SS - big TQ for preparing this lipsmacking dessert. Not only that I liked and enjoyed the foodies very much, but certainly it brought nostalgic feelings to me while savouring them. The good old times which I had while eating them with my siblings in my younger days kept 'popping and dancing' through my mind! Oh ... How I missed those good and lovely days I spent with my brothers and sisters in Happy Village while enjoying the Putu Mayam! 

Once again, TQ to all my friends who had invited me and my family to their homes and spent good festive times together. I truly enjoyed every moment we were together not only the coffee morning foodies, sumptuous lunches and delicious dinners, but most of all I enjoyed the friendship we shared in this hospitable land with truly hospitable people just like you and your loving family. Irrespective of races and religions, we sat down together as one Big Happy Family respecting and understanding each other's culture and tradition. I Thank You for inviting me and my family to be part and parcel of your happy celebration :) 

Indeed, all of you are truly beautiful people with beautiful hearts and personality. On this, I remember what my octagenarion Mom used to say to me which truly reflect all of you my friends:

"A beautiful appearance will last a few decades, but a beautiful personality will last a life time!" TQ once again for your beautiful personality and hospitality my Dear Friends - Mrs RJ, Mrs MG, Mrs Charles and Mrs SS. I shall not forget your love and kindness to me and my family.

Quality Time with Loved Ones!

It has been five days that I spent valuable time with my daughter, Lisa. She arrived last Saturday evening and since then we had been having great time together both at home and away. The minute we arrived home from the airport, she straightaway walked towards the dinning hall where there was spread of coconut rice and the condiments which I already prepared earlier in the evening before we headed to the airport. Indeed, I told myself that while the 'grown-up kiddos' are spending their holidays here, I hope to spend quality times with them and as far as possible I would like to cook for them home-cook foodies. Also to take them around Muscat and try the varieties of foodies from Arabs to Iranian to Lebanese and Western cuisines!

Alhamdulilah, so far my daughter and I had our bonding time together. We talked on beds and at dining tables with Gary always in between us! She always feels hungry and I noticed every two hours she'll be craving for foods! Early in the morning by 6am, she'll be having her cereals with cold milk. When we are having our breakfast before Mr Right goes to the office, she'll be having her second breakfast with us, be it roti canai with fish curry or fried noodles. After that at about 10.30am when I prepared brunch for her father such as fried rice, salads or cokodok ikan bilis, I'd prepared the same for her. Lunch times I also preferred to prepare home-cooked foodies knowing full well that she preferred home-cook foods. Last few days I cooked fried mee mamak and this afternoon, I made chicken rice. Although I did not know how to cook like most mothers, yet I did my very best to produce something for her and I truly loved to see her eating her meals. It made me feel good and blessed that she ate all the foodies which I cooked.

At dinner time, we spent bonding time together at several eating outlets such the D'Arcy Kitchen where Lisa loved its Fish & Chips. Other times we went to B & B @FunZone where Lisa preferred its Chicken Sandwich. Yesterday we had an operation dinner-out for Iranian cuisines at Mersin. She had chicken kebab with fries and bread. Also coffee ice cream from Baskin Robbin which I shared with her. This evening  for a change, we took her to Pizza Hut and had super supreme pizza with garlic breads and spicy chicken wings. Wow! That was really delicious foodies that we had as one happily family while waiting for her brother and SIL to join us at the end of this month. Indeed, so far we had quality time - talking and laughing together and as always there'll be Gary with his antics for us to play with, either hide-and-seek in between the pillars or under the duvets :D

Now we are looking forward to weekends after the festive season hi tea which we spent @Norina's. We were delighted to be served with turkey and bread as well as her specialty the Laksa Sarawak with the sweet citrus Mandarin oranges as the yummy desserts! It was really nice to spend holiday times with friends and also to understand our friend's cultures and traditions. Tomorrow, insyallah we'll take her to The Shakespeare for an English Breakfast! I truly hope she will enjoy her meals there which has a beautiful ambience with floral Victorian design. In fact, in one of my notes to her before her arrival in Muscat, I told her that I wished to take her to a few places for some bonding times together including to the new cafe Shakespeare @The Wave! Although the foods may be different from the ones in The Maid of Honour at Kew Gardens which we used to frequent during our stay in London because we liked and admired the Olde English 'cottage' which was established since 1868, but I truly wish we'll have another great bonding times together @Shakespeare! 

Indeed, we had a wonderful time together overlooking the Marina and surrounded by lush palm trees. We ordered the typical English breakfast of omelette with mushroom, roasted potatoes and baked beans. It was exceptionally delicious and reminded us of England in cool winter! We daintily drank the Earl Grey tea with hot milk and finished off with 'Lava Chocolate Cake' and Vanilla ice cream as desserts! Wallah, that's was a truly beautiful Friday morning bonding time :D

A Time Out @Shakespeare, The Wave: Beautiful Place with Beautiful People!

Lisa with Dad :)) Spending Quality Time Together in a Beautiful Place with Great Foodies :D

Lisa with Mom. Bonding time between Mom+Doter with Heart2Heart Talk!

Appreciation Day!

This morning we were invited for 'brunch' @Shatti Al Qurum organized by MKR. I would like to name it as 'Appreciation Day' because the organizer  had made the day so memorable to all the staff both HBS and LRS!

In conjunction with X-Mas and Year End 'All in One' Event, not only MKR thought of serving brunch comprising of Malaysian foodies - coconut rice and vermicelli but there was Christmas Cake too, courtesy of Grand Hyatt to be shared with us. That was truly Yummy! MKR also prepared gifts as token of appreciation. Big TQ to MKR for the thoughtfulness!

The beautiful card that brings big smile to my face and the thoughtful gift which I truly appreciate and will be part of my 'Mugging Collection' :D

Later in the evening, I received more gifts as part of 'Appreciation Day' from other friends to mark Year End 2013 and to welcome the New Year 2014! A bunch of scented Red Roses, a box of lipsmacking Patchi Chocolates, a colorful Handmade Incense Burner, a soft woolen shawl, an inspirational book by Azar Nafisi Things I've Been Silent About, a midnight blue brooch, and a mouthwatering Christmas Log-Cake. Wow! That's a table full  in just a day that brought wide smile to my face. Thank You, Dear Friends. But, it was not only the gifts but the thoughts of sending the wishes were greatly appreciated. It truly shows one cares and I'm delighted for their thoughts and caring gestures. 

In fact, in one of the cards which I received it was written: "Dear DM, I wanted to thank you for being such an inspiration and piller of strength for me and my family as we embark on this journey ..." In another lovely card it was beautifully written: "Dear DM, Thank You for your Love. One is loved because One is loved. No reason is needed for loving." Indeed, this simple sentence quoted from Paulo Coelho has beautiful meaning for loving a person needs no explanation. Just like the sentence 'love is blind' which means we appreciate the one we love irrespective of their flaws. Truthfully, love is a great force in our life. As a popular saying says: "When we love, we always strive to become better than we are. When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too." I delightfully appreciate all the love and the loving gestures that were showering and pouring down onto me. My gratitude to Allah SWT for all his Love and opening the hearts of others to Love Me, too! Thus, I name this beautiful and meaningful day - an Appreciation Day! TQ ALL, whoever you are and wherever you are :) I Appreciate You and of course My Endless Love to You, too! 

The Red Roses that brightens my heart and the sweet Chocolates which brings sweet smiles to my face :D

Other lovely gifts that arrived with lots of beautiful Year End Wishes for a Bright Incoming New Year. TQ Dear Friends for the thoughts -(@^@)-

From my helper Mrs P who always know what I like and treasure most - The Kitty! She will be part of my Kitty Collection, too. TQ Mrs P ...

Endless Love

Love is something that no one could measure

Love is something that all of us should treasure!

Love lies not in one's eyes but at someone's heart

Love that was betrayed pierced one's heart like a dart!

Love  thyself and others that love you

Love God for its true love through and through!

Love isn't just a word on one's lips 

Love is a feeling from one's heart that truly deep!

Love is endless for those who feels it

Love is clueless for someone who doesn't deserve it!

Love the someone who loves you with all his heart

Love the persons who set eyes on you and wouldn't want you to be apart! 

Endless Love: Written by Mama Gary while Gary's mind was far far away following each of the rain drops in Mid-Winter @Qurum29 :D

Bundle of Joys

When we know someone is expecting a child, we too become excited. 

When I know I'm expecting my own child, I am feeling inspired.

When you know, I am carrying your child, you're truly delighted.

When we know we are going to have our own child, we are extremely passionate!

Our child will arrive here tonight for her vacation

I can't sleep when she said, "I'm still at the immigration"

I felt good when Daddy called and she replied, "I'm boarding the plane with no complication"

Oh, my bundle of joys! You're God's  gift and His beautiful Creation!

Huh! Huh Our bundle of joys is on her way

For her well being and safety to God I pray

I'll shower her with my love from day to day

Feed her with my foods throughout her stay! 

As bundle of joys, you are Mom's heart and soul

Your presence in this world make me feel whole

In few hours you'll be in my arms for me to hold

Well, My bundle of joys, I'll surely wait for you and we'll go rock and roll!

My gratitude to Allah SWT for His greatest gift to Me - "My Bundle of Joys, Lisa Rustam!" 

Katibim: Abah's Music4MySoul

Katibim or Uskudara Giderken is a Turkish folk song that always linger in my mind reminding me of my late Abah. This song is one of his favorites. Sometimes, I hummed it quietly whenever I missed him knowing full well he was missing me too. My late Abah had left peacefully to meet and be with his Creator for already twenty-five years. To be exact he left all his loved ones on 20 December 1988.

A few hours ago, I had the opportunity to listen to this sacred song once again in a Concert organized by the Turkish Embassy @Royal Opera House Muscat. It was beautifully performed by the veterens from PSO -PresidentialSymphonyOrchestra (established since 1826) Ankara Wind Instrument Quintet. I was almost in tears when the quintet comprising of Aycan Sancar, the Director of PSO who played the flute and other members namely Sedat Civelek (Obeo), Atilla Sentin (Clarinet), Tahsin Arslan (Bassoon) and Bekir Camci (Horn) performed the show. I can't help myself form humming the music silently on the ROHM rooftop terrace under the full moon brightly shone over me!

When I reached home after the amazing show, I quickly browsed the website to find out more about how my late Dad knew this music when he had never been to any other country outside his own home sweet home and what more to Turkey? Within seconds I found the answer   which I had been searching for so so long. The Katibim tune appeared in a popular and evergreen Malay film Ali Baba Bujang Lapok  as  Alangkah Indah Di Waktu Pagi (A Beautiful Morning) lyrics as written by the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee in 1961, also the year my Mr Right was born! Oh ... What a coincidence.

I scrolled through the Turkish lyrics and delighted to find the English translation by Eva a half Turkish and half Persian Oriental dancer and teacher who lives in Ottawa via www.shira.net/music/lyrics/uskudara -gideriken.htm. Indeed, I was elated because it brought nostalgic feelings and memories of my late Abah. All along I was searching where did my Dad heard the tune of the folk song Katibim which means clerk or sometimes the scribe. The song told a story where a lady was traveling with her scribe to Uskudar, near Istanbul.

On further research I found the Katibim lyrics  as translated in English language posted by Cherry Bomb (fleurmach.com2012) who did the findings based on Nuri Halil Poyraz and Muzzafer Sarisozen:

On the way to Uskudar, it started raining 

My scribe wears a frock coat, its long skirt muddied

The scribe has woken up from sleep, his eyes are languid

The scribe is mine, and I'm his, hands will  intertwined

It looks so lovely on my scribe, that starched shirt of his 

On the way to Uskudar, I found a handkerchief

And I filled the handkerchief with lokum (Turkish Delight Candy)

When I was looking for my scribe, I found him next to me

The scribe is mine and I'm his; what was it to others?

It looks so lovely on my scribe, that starch shirt of his ...

The melodic song Alangkah Indahnya Di Waktu Pagi which was sang by the late Primadona Normadiah in the Malay movie depicted a simple kampong life about two brothers Ali Baba and his 'stingy' brother Kassim Baba somewhere in an 'Arabian Land' and mostly humorous. The lyrics were:

Solo:

Alangkah indah di waktu pagi

Burung bersiul bernyanyi-nyanyi

Chorus:

Alangkah indah di waktu pagi

Burung bersiul bernyanyi-nyanyi

Solo:

Terbang bebas di angkasa tinggi

Hidup bersenang hati

Chorus: (same)

Solo:

Tidak seperti burung di sangkar

Hatinya sedih hidupnya sukar

Chorus: (same)

Solo:

Makan di beri minum di sukat

Terkurung terikat

Chorus: (same)

The Malay movie which I 'suspected' my late Abah had viewed in 1961 staring the Malay artists including the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee, late S.Samsuddin, late Normadiah, and joker Aziz Satar as well as featuring the ever beauty Sarimah! In this movie also the enchanting Turkish tune of Katibim was played and sang by Normadiah that 'paralysed' my heart missing my late Abah. Al Fatihah to you, my Abah. You're always in my thoughts and prayers :)

A photo snapped by Mr Right in ROHM just after the enchanting show by the Quintet from PSO, Turkey that brought back nostalgic feelings to my late Abah! It also meant that he had left me for already a quarter century, yet his endless love lives with me forever ... TQ Abah!

Be a Perfect Wife ...

Be the perfect wife even if your better half is imperfect! Well, have you heard of that phrase? Alhamdulilah, I did hear it this morning from a Singaporean motivational speaker Sista Jah AlKhaff who flown all the way from Brunei, a place she called second home since 1991. After hearing the inspirational talk organised by Educational Bureau of Perwakilan Muscat that went straight to my heart and soul, I humbly wish and aspire to be a much better wife to my husband. Insyallah. For I always believe true intentions counts! Allah is there to hear all the good intentions. "All we need to do is pray and make supplications" says Sista Jah Alkhaff.

I personally feel and of the view that being 'perfect' does not necessarily mean that we all must be physically beautiful and perfect in everything we do, but more so of having beautiful hearts with features and attitudes that 'sedap di pandang mata' which makes our better halves always 'crave' to be with us and 'want' us to be in their company. In other words, they enjoyed the company of their wives whom they termed 'boleh di bawa ketepi dan ketengah majlis!' Or the joy of being together every where they go and in every situation they are - always wanting us! Simply put, we must be the source of joy to our better halves. And, isn't that the main reason they chose and married us in the first place?

Anyway, coming back to the session which I had with Sista Jah, there are few things which I also believed need to be jotted down and shared with other sisters who weren't there with some 'selfie' explanations and my own understandings and experiences. For example, she quoted Umamah Al Harith who adviced all her daughters upon their solemnization to their husbands. First and foremost, to always smell good and nice. Trust me, this advice without doubt is the most pertinent. Who would want to be near us when we have terrible BO. Not even our friends, what more our husbands! If these happen, the wives will suffer in silence where being their lawful wives, yet their husbands did not want to come to bed with them :( Then, the question arise : what's the point of marrying when the husband treats his wife like strangers? So, personal hygiene is  the first rule of the thumb.

Secondly, to prepare his food on time. Here, I opined that it does not necessarily mean that we have to cook foodies all the times and smell kitchen! Once in a while  yes, since the saying to capture our husband's love is via his stomach still matters; but not to treat it as burdens. Also, if we have helpers to cook for us and what nought, it is best and strongly recommended if we are the ones who serves him the foodies with full of love, joy and smiles. We should accompany him while he savours the food although we are not eating (full) and not just to leave him alone while in actual fact he is a married man and not a bachelor! What he needs is our love and attention. Isn't that simple? But the rewards would be vast and everlasting.

The third advice was to keep quiet when he sleeps. As everyone knows that sleep is the best rest ever to our body. The norm is that after having good foodies and a very good sleep we will feel fresh and our body rejuvenate again. If one did not get a good sleep he or she will be restless, moody, everything seems wrong and God knows what! So, good sleep is very important to our better half after their hard days at work. Thus, it goes without saying once he had a very good sleep, whatever the wife's wish will become his command! :D Not surprise if one day, there'll be breakfast on bed for us. LOL but true!

The fourth advice was never disclosed his secrets! As his wife and someone whom he trusts, we are our husbands' partners for life - both here and hereafter! So, never once disclosed his 'aib' to others who has no business whatsoever in his affairs. Whatever his secrets are to be guarded with our mouths well zipped or better still sealed with concrete that no one could even smell it! That's our sacred duty and responsiblilty to our better halves and vice versa. His secrets are our secrets and we are always considered as 'one' person > husband+wife!!

Last but never the least was to honour, respect and agree with him. Indeed, our husbands are someone we have to respect and honour. There were many stories that Sista Jah shared with us about honouring him and to follow our husbands' wishes at all cost as long as not to disobey our Creator Allah SWT. For example, there was once a wife during our Prophet Mohamad SAW time whose husband was out on a journey. Before he left her he said, "Never leave the house till I come home." During his absence, her father fell sick and her father's servant went to her house to inform her about it. Yet, she did not leave the house since she honoured her husband's instruction. A few days after that her father's servant went to see her again and informed that her father had passed away. Still with sadness and heavy heart, she did not leave the house and waited for the husband to come home. On this, Prophet Mohamad SWA relayed to her that due to her obedience to her husband, Allah SWT took away all her father's sins and sent him to Jannah. Wow! That was truly an awesome story to emulate. 

As to agree with what our husband's view, there is a saying that we can 'agree to disagree' in order to maintain a civil dialogue! Although at times we may have different views over certain things from our better halves, it does not mean that we are losing the battle if we just agree with him. There are ways to win an argument without showing that we disagree! And most of the time, they are happier to accept the victory and our agreement due to their ego. If we made them happy, their morale high and good moods follow them. Therefore, it is always safe to set aside our 'irreconcilable differences' with our better halves with full knowledge that it does not mean defeat. In long run, we are the winner and winning the race :D

In conclusion, with simpler notes if we can make things easy then why try to make it difficult. If we can laugh, then why should we cry and make ourselves miserable. If we can make our husband happy by doing simple things which he likes and appreciates then why want to try something new and difficult which we are not sure of the result!  Even if we yearn to take risk, it is advisable to take 'calculated risk!' In short, just make him smile and he will smile back to you; just make him happy and surely happiness will all be yours!

Big TQ to Sista Jah who was sharing her knowledge with us on the topic 'Be a Perfect Wife! Even if He is an Imperfect Husband.'

Gentle Reminder ...

I was browsing through my FB and saw these beautiful words by Anon posted by someone who truly cares to share. Indeed, the credit goes to the Anon writer who had written the words of wisdom. Thus, I quickly took the opportunity and self liberty to quote the meaningful words today to be sent to my daughter on her Birthday tomorrow 18.12.2013 as a gentle reminder to me and also to her in pursuing our present day for a better future and truly blissful life.  I always wanted to be a thoughtful Mom to her. Insyallah, May my wish be granted and fulfilled by Allah SWT.

I acknowledged and credited these words to the Anon writer which I had quoted from FB Wall. TQ for the reminder  and more so for care to share whoever you are! :D

After five decades of living in this challenging world and meeting many characters from all walks of life, I totally agreed with the Anon writer: "there is purpose for everyone you meet ..." In some ways, the people we met throughout our journey of life made us happy, smile and laugh. But at times, there were others who made us mad, sad and cried :( Yet, when we looked back at those days, we realised that everyone of them had taught us a valuable lesson! 

Also a popular  Malay saying Yang Baik Di Jadikan Tauladan; Yang Buruk Di Jadikan Sempadan suddenly popped to mind. Whatever we received or acquired from others be it from family members, friends or acquaintance, we must always sieve them. Whatever good take it as an example or something to emulate. But, whatever not good or bad, take it also but made it our barrier or reminder! Not all sweet is honey and not all bitter is medicine :D Yet, all the same I am truly thankful that we have crossed path, although just for a second or so for there's always a purpose which only Allah SWT knows at the moment of the crossing path for only He knows best!

To those persons who are worth to be respected, kept and hailed by me, You surely know who You're for You're truly worthy! I am blessed to be surrounded by persons such as You far and near and for that matter, my greatest gratitude to Allah SWT for bestowing me with those loving souls. Alhamdulilah. May all the love that were neatly sowed within us flourish. Amin. 

Trisome @WomenX-PO :D

Being a woman, I can never blink an eye and not attend an expo involving women. It may sound chauvinistic, yet that's the reality! So, this morning together with two female friends Cookie and Mimi, I went to view the expo at OIEC in Seeb and met some women entrepreneurs there whose intricate awesome works truly captured my small Chinese eyes :D

While scouting from booth to booth, I came across many booths on educations such as Majan College which has an association with University of Bedfordshire, UK. At another corner there were several other booths that showcased handmade jewelry. One booth that truly caught my attention was an Omani handicrafts jewels Nari Nari Jewellery. I immediately fell in love with the unique designs where most of the jewellery were intricately handmade with an exquisite and alluring solid 'bold' gold as the main attraction which one surely cannot missed!

Then, I saw a line of booths belonging to MSA. In one of its booth I met Lamia who I once met at one of the OWA functions. At her booth during the expo, she has produced beautiful and painstaking Omani handicrafts for women and children based on her own observation and creativity. When I asked her as to how long she has been into this unique handicrafts, with genuine sweet smiling face and a very soft tone she answered, "Just three months." Oh Wow! That was my spontaneous respond. I was exceptionally amazed with her skills and the exquisite productions which she had produced single-handedly. Among others were a set of traditional yet fashionable and colorful burqa and belt with exquisitely handmade 'kanjar' for women and children. 

The burqa is a stif face veil mask that covers half of the woman's face. It also has an open slit for the eyes (@^@) which was awesome! In fact, I had one in my  possession  which I bought @Muscat Festival in Ameerat early this year. Whereas a kanjar is a curved dagger which is normally worn by an Omani man at his waist over the dish dasha at official functions. However, Lamia has not only taken this view into serious consideration,  instead with sheer creativity she has transformed it daintily as part of women accessories and decorative items to their dress which was truly elegant and enchanting! Such a brilliant idea for a very young and enthusiastic entrepreneur which I truly admired and to be emulated by all. Great Work Lamia :)

Lamia with her enchanting products that captured many visitors including the trisome - Cookie, Mimi and Me!

LookOut 4 Handmade Goodies!

These few days, I went 'crazy' for some lookouts for something handmade. Since it is festive season and I already received a few invitations for celebrations till new year, so I decided to present gifts to the potential hostess with something homemade either I cooked some foodies from my kitchen or something that was handmade from traditional shops around Muscat. Indeed, I found a shop in one of the complexes in AlQurum. They were handmade jewelleries made of beads or semi precious stones. Another from a shop in M's Mall where I could get some handmade tapestry bags and handsome handwoven shawls! 

To me, it is always a nice feeling if we could get something which is of quality and made out of sheer love and sweats. It needs not be pricy or could cost us a bomb but sufficed if the things we get is something that has meanings and serves its purpose as sovenirs or momentous to someone whom we care and appreciate of their presence in our life. But, it must reflects something from our hearts. More so if someone has spent her precious time just to do something for us, something that we adore and something that will make us remember them! One good example was my dear friend ILS who knows what I truly liked and indeed she made me something which took her more than a day - a red velvet cake with a special topping of pink shoe and red roses as the decoration. The painstaking time taken to make the cake coupled with full of love for me as her dear friend was something which I treasured and will always remember when my birthday comes!

Back to homemade gifts, on one occasions, I was invited to a friend's home for coffee morning. Although I know that I wasn't a good cook as the hostess, yet I tried my level best to bring along a homemade foodies to share with her and her invitees. I made nasi goreng kampong styled topped with thinly sliced omellete and accompanied with deep fried prawn crackers from my hometown! Indeed, I felt so good to bring something which came directly from my kitchen instead of food stalls! Another time, I made for a friend party a platter of Chinese styled fried vermicile with sambal kicap as its gravy while recently with clams' season here, I cooked clams with all the fresh herbs for a few friends as part of my pot luck contributions. Indeed, it was a truly nice feelings to share what you know with others and vice versa. It may be a small gesture but to others it means we appreciate the invitation with big heart!

And, for this festive season, I have chosen to present my friends with homemade goodies which I bought and taken into account when selected them based on my individual friend's favourite colours! Recently, I bought a purplish cashmere shawl for a friend whom I know loves the Morning Glory colour. I truly hope she likes my choice :) For another friend who will be leaving us for home-sweet-home after her five years stay in this beautiful and hospitable land, I decided to choose a handmade necklace made of semi-precious stones. Also in my heart I wish and hope that she likes my selection as a remembrance of our friendship. To my helper who will be celebrating her XMas Day, I have chosen a pair of bluish pearl earrings with a matching pearl ring as a token of gratitude for all her assistance and help to me at our home. For without her help with the house chores, my home won't look as what it is! TQ Mrs P for your help to us. My prayers always with you for your well being with the hope that you too like the gifts from me on your special day!

Part of my 'catch' during the lookouts for goodies as gifts to special friends who are near to my heart ...

Arjuna: Truly 1Malaysia

I was invited to Arjuna's 8th Birthday Bash @MSQ! He is a very polite and lovable boy. A little shy with full of smiles and I certainly admire his innocent look. In fact, I was surprised when he walked to me coupled with a lovely grin and handed this colourful plate with a slice of his cut birthday cake! He shyly said, "Aunty, this is for you." That was exceptionally awesome. I thanked him and kissed his cheeks. Oh, Big TQ Arjuna :D

Arjuna's Black Forest Birthday Cake > It was delicious & yummy! I enjoyed it very much.

By the way, why do I want to write about Arjuna? Apart from being a smart, well behaved with cute demeanor, this young boy has something unique or very special within himself that truly captured my attention. He is a beautiful mixed-blood boy, not just from two but more! He lives peacefully and harmoniously in a family of many races and religions. His father is a Malay with traces of other descendants. Also a charming Muslim guy. His mother who hails from Sabah has a Chinese-Kadazan Mom and a Punjabi Sikh father. 

So, it wasn't surprise to see spreads and spreads of different types of Malaysian delicacies on the buffet table! From kampong style cooking to modern recipes with hints of fusions. And, most of all to admire Arjuna's Mom in her lovable 'Malay feature' for she can be categorized as a 'Chindian' an informal term for persons with Chinese Mom and an Indian Dad or vice versa. She also has converted to Muslim when she married Arjuna's loving and very sporting Dad, a pilot whom he adored with all his heart! I saw this gesture on the house wall which wrote, "Welcome Home, Daddy ..." truly meant for the macho Captain of an international Airline who came home for his family after his long flight. All in all, I like the togetherness in Arjuna's family :)

In a sentence, Arjuna is an example of 1Malaysia kid who not only lives and surrounded by all the races or ethic groups in Malaysia but he has the mixed-blood or ancestry  of all the races and religions - Malay, Chinese and (Punjabi) Indian also Muslim, Buddhists and Guru Nanak and yet, they all live happily under one roof! I loved watching his loving Grand Dad playing with him and his sister Misha as well as his ever smiling Grand Mom who cooked for us the rumpai laut specially flown from Sabah. In them, I saw true happiness living together irrespective of races or religions. 

To Arjuna and family, you are the symbol of 1Malaysia who everyone should emulate! We all could live together harmoniously without looking at the colours of the skin or what religion one's preach. It all bogs down to one's heart. If we have an open minds, I personally believe that we could overcome all obstacles. Insyallah. And, indeed the young Arjuna is an exemplar to all of us in this universe. My prayer that he will grow strong as each day passes by and May he has a blissful future and true blue wonderful life. Once again, Happy 8th Birthday Arjuna!

Young and cheerful Arjuna is about to blow the candles on his 8th Birthday surrounded by loved ones - Loving parents Mr and Mrs Capt, sweet elder sister Misha,  Grand Dad & Grand Mom, Little Aunty, many aunties and uncles and ever joyful fellow friends @MSQ!

Wedding on Friday, 13.12.13!

A sacred date to remember 13.12.13! We were invited to RMWedding @Barr Al Jissah Resort. 

The newly wed Mr & Mrs RM on the Dance floor. The beginning of a new beginning to a lovely couple :)

Well, it wasn't like any other weddings which I have attended in Oman where most of the time the event was separated between males and females. Although on one special ocassion, we had attended together a luxurious Wedding Ceremony @AlBustan Palace. Usually my better half would go to the bridegroom's wedding ceremony held in the mosques followed by luxurious dinner while I went to the bride's wedding dinner followed by stunning ladies' night at the five star hotels or beautifully decorated private halls. But last night, it was totaly different than the norm where it was held in the amphitheater field in the cool breezy weather which was truly awesome! The wedding whitish ambience was superb and sparkling yet cosy for all the black tie for males and dazzling female invited guests. Indeed, my better half went in his gorgeous Guy Laroche black tie while I wore a matching black gown and topped with pink songket shawl, a gift from HRH. I also wore a matching black and gold Carvali shoes with D&G tapestry clutch handbag.  Altogether, the more than 300 guests really looked great and delightfully stunning  for the luxurious wedding. We also had a great wedding dinner serenaded by a beautifully tuned band. When we met the newly wed couple, we truly prayed that the couple's nuptial be blessed by His Almighty Allah SWT till Jannah! Insyallah.

But the Wedding Dinner did not end there! As the saying says 'the night is still young' although the clock had chimed elevan times! Apart from the sumptuous foods that included the Starter Anti Pasti Italiano, Potato Apple Ginger Cream Soup and most delicious Stuffed Chicken Breast as the Main Course, there's more to see with a surprise performance that made our heart beat faster and faster with amazement :D While savouring our mouthwatering desserts Bitter Chocolate Mousse, there was a belly dance performed by an artist near to our seats which was exceptionally stunning and captivating the guests' eyes with a WOW!

One true dance for the 'sleepy eyes' - The WOW Factor Belly Dance! I liked it :)

May the Bride & Groom Mr and Mrs RM's journey with the sacred oath flourishes and blooms as pure as the White Lillies that resonate them on the memorable Wedding Day:13.12.13!

Everyone has a Story to Tell ...

Marisa met her husband in an airplane from KL to London. The buckling and unbuckling of the seat belt started their first conversation and until today the couple still talking to each other :D

Miles and miles away from Manila, Mrs MP met her life partner in KFC Muscat when their eyes were twinkling to each other about two decades ago although he was a staff @McD. LOL! Ever sweet PD befriended a guy during her student days in America. Her husband was actually her best friend who used to send her love letters on her behalf to her so called boy friend. Yet the table turned and she married her best friend instead of her boy friend! Now, I wonder if the love letters ever reached her boy friend? Ho Ho Ho! Another couple I knew met their better halves through scandalous or triangle relationships. She was her girlfriend's best friend who acommpanied her girlfriend dating times. When her best friend got married to another man, she immediately married her best girlfriend's boyfriend to the chargrin of her bestfriend. Hi Hi Hi What say you? I say I believe in the Malay saying: Jodoh Di Tangan Tuhan or literally Marriage is in God's Hands!

From those stories, it only shows that each and everyone of us has a story to tell about how people met their better halves :) Well, what about my Dearest Mom and my Late Dad? Perhaps, I should write here about their love story for my children's knowledge. About how they met and the arranged marriage they had and how the marriage had survived to this day. Alhamdulilah. Amin. Mom was born RR on 22 August 1931 and Dad SW in year 1925. He was six years Mom's senior and had left all his loved ones for the permanent world on 20 December 1988 at aged 63. In fact, he once told Mom that he wished to die at that age which was the age when our beloved Prophet Mohamad SAW died. Indeed, his final wish was granted although I wish he could stay longer just like my Mom who is now an octagenarion  and still healthy and very strong hearted woman at 82! In less than a month, insyallah she will welcome the bright and more colorful New Year 2014. Perhaps to see more newborn great grandchildren :)

Last spring, I was truly fortunate to be able to stay with my Dearest Mom for a week in my home @SA Town. My daughter and I fetched her from her hometown in Happy Village and together we had a memorable mother-daughter bonding time! I took the opportunity to cook for her and serve her the best I could knowing fully well that this youngest daughter of hers is not a 'homely' type person. All my childhood life with her @our small yet cosy home and ever since I left that home for a boarding school at the tender age of 12, I have never 'liked' domestic chores and all related to it but Mom knew that pretty well. Perhaps she and my late Dad played the role too where they always said, "Adik, need not do any chores, etc, etc ..." And, of course I smiled happily then which to this day I still smile happily because   there is always someone to help me with the house chores. In those days, all the helpings and assistances whenever my Mom needed them rested at my two elder sisters Sis Anne and Sister Sophie! And, to this day together with my elder Sister Mia, I am always their ever 'manja' little sister! Just named what I felt like eating and what nought, all the three will do their best to cook for me to the chargrin of my own children :D

Anyway, back to my Mom's story. She did not meet my late Dad liked the nowadays couple or liked how I met my better half. She was at her small home in B-Village well protected by my late maternal Grand Dad HR and his sweet wife late maternal Grand Ma HM. The time was during the Japanese Occupation in 1940s over Malaya and before my beautiful motherland become Malaysia. According to Mom, one day my late Dad came with his parents to my Mom's home. She doesn't know what was the purpose. But, she caught glimpse of my late Dad's face from behind the curtain and immediately took a liking of him. When her late father whom I called EL told her to make some refreshments for the visitors, very quickly she did! Being a good knitter and very skillful with her hand works, she placed a selfmade tray cloth which was made of fine material onto the tray before she placed the cups of coffee and some ubi rebus on the tray to the visitors. And that little knit work caught the attention of my late Dad's eyes! And straightaway in his heart he said that he wanted to marry the girl who made that pretty and eye catching tray cloth! Wow, that's already love at first sight though not at first eye contact :D Very soon, he told his mother - my late paternal Grandma Nyai that he wished to marry my Mom. Really sweet isn't it! And that happened in 1944 before the Japanese Army surrended. During that trying time my late Dad was already 19 years old and a fine gentlman who read Quran very well while my Mom was only a 13 year old village girl! But, true love knows not bound ...

And, to make the story short, I was told that both their families met again and my Mom was soon married to her 'silent' heartrobe! Since aged 13, she was happily married to my Dad and lived with her mother in law in Sweet Water Village which was quite far from her parents home. Yet, my late paternal Grandma Nyai took care of her and passed down her legacy to my mom. My late Dad was late Grandma Nyai's youngest son, so he was her 'apple of the eyes!' Grandma Nyai loved my Mom very much and she taught my Mom all the things which every woman should know especially about beauty and the importance to take herbs or jamu! When late Dad and Mom moved to their new home @Happy Village, Grandma Nyai followed and lived with the loving couple. They had a great 'mother-daughter' relationship until Grandma Nyai passed away peacefully on Mom's lap in 1978. And ten years later, my late Dad passed away peacefully also on Mom's lap! Indeed, the trio or trisome had a great time together since they first set eyes on each other till their death bed. Al Fatihah to my late Dad and late Geandma Nyai. But above all, my surviving and loving Mom is exceptionally the superb person who gives her life and full attention to the duo - her forever loving husband and wonderful MiL without neglecting her very own children. 

I truly love You, Mak! And, while writing this piece my mind and heart are soaring fast across the oceans to You for I miss you very much ... Insyallah, with God's Will, we shall meet again and continue with our daughter-mother bonding just like the last Spring :) You're the One and Only Mother who taught me what endless love is and that love knows no bound! Indeed, I applied the knowledge I acquired from You to my Only daughter, too! Thank You again, Mak.

(Note: Photo taken via FB Wall which was posted by a friend through inspirational quotes).

PM Ladies in the News!!!

I am truly proud of Perwakilan Muscat Ladies contribution towards the less privileged and the needy. If in Winter last year, we took part @Asean Ladies' Circle Bazaar in the Omani Women Association Building for the Sidab Ladies Sewing Group, this year together with more than twenty embassies in the Sultanate, we participated in the Ambassadors' Wives Group Diplomatic Charity Bazaar which was held in Arfah Ballroom, The Grand Hyatt Hotel on 7.12.2013. The 'Ladies in Red' were not only in their vibrant spirits to sell authentic   Malaysian foodies and some traditional handicrafts where part of the proceeds were channeled to the needy, but most of all their strong support towards good cause coupled with cheerful gestures truly captured the media.

Perwakilan Muscat Ladies with the Guest of Honour HH Sayyida Dr Muna binti Fahad Al Said @the Malaysian stall as captured by ApexMedia. 

In fact, a week before this - a picture of them was out in The Times of Oman by its Staff Reporter Sarah Mc Donald with a caption: Social Commitment! Indeed, I am exceptionally proud of their commitment for they absolutely played their part whole heartedly with full of responsibility and joyful demeanor. Especially, when we have a more urgent commitment to oversee an important royal visit which took place at about the same time of the charity bazaar event. Yet, Perwakilan Muscat Ladies did not find this as obstacle, handicap or problematic instead sheer challenge to them to prove their best, which eventually they did with flying colours. To them ALL - Bravo Gals! 

Their undivided unity and forever charitable spirits truly reflect the Malay saying: Berat Sama Di Pikul, Ringan Sama Di Jinjing which among others connote in whatever thing we do, we should do it together, be it big or small. If the said thing is huge or heavy, then we should shoulder it together but if the said thing is small or light, then we should carry it simply :) In sum, as long as we do the things together, we shall never feel the burden. Instead, everyone will feel good and happily obliged to carry out the task or contribute towards the good cause merrily with full of smiles and happy feelings :D

In the Times of Oman dated 9.12.2013 @p.4 featured Malaysian ladies in their Perwakilan Muscat uniform performing their 'social commitment' towards good cause! 

What truly caught the attention of many customers and some reporters to the stall was that the Perwakilan Muscat Ladies sold varieties of Malaysian authentic cuisines such as the typical nasi lemak which was specially wrapped in banana leaves for its sweet fragrance, delicious laksa Sarawak, beautiful purplish nasi kerabu, lovely pulut kuning and rendang, tasty fried noodles and mee hoon, mouthwatering chicken b'chang, sticky but wonderful pulut panggang and the sure thing which one cannot leave without i.e. the most popular savory > the karipap! When interviewed by the Muscat Daily Correspondent about Malaysia's participation, my view was "Malaysia is a country of diverse ethnicity and we presented a variety of dishes."

Also the ever yummy Malaysian desserts mainly bingka ubi, kuih bakar Kemboja, cokodok pisang, and other modern cakes such as caramel sponge cake, fruit cakes, cup cakes, and jellies. All these are not only sumptuous but surely mouthwatering to those who were only browsing and glancing that fortunately to us - they ended up buying all of them! TQ Buyers :) And to top the icing on the cake during the Charity Bazaar event was the variety and colourful ais kerim Malaysia in a cooler which were made of asam boi, sirap, milo, and many other types or kinds that enticed not only the children but adults, too! 

With all those varieties of foodies and handicrafts such as batik materials, batik paintings, pewter forks representing the Twin Towers, book marks, fridge magnets depicting Malaysian life, intricate purses made of screw pine leaves, and beautiful key chains well laid on the well decorated 'batik' tables in our Perwakilan Muscat stall, it was as though we are all in our homeland serving the customers. Not forgetting the ever welcoming Bunga Telor to the Guest of Honour and other customers to be taken home as part of the Malaysian hospitality. 

All in all, there were ranges of products from 23 nations displayed at the Charity Bazaar, and Perwakilan Muscat Ladies were truly proud to be part of the charitable event!

In Muscat Daily dated 8.12.2013 where several Ambassadors' wives including India, Malaysia and French representative were interviewed about their country's participation and products sold in their respective stalls. 

In sum, the participating nations received tremendous supports from local authorities, all embassies and generous donors, in particular people from all walks of life supported the cause! In return,  the proceeds collected from the event were channeled to the needy primarily the Association for the Welfare of Handicapped Children. Indeed, we love to share and give what we have, if not all but part of it. As Mother Theresa rightly said: "It's not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving." To all Perwakilan Muscat Ladies, once again  TQ for giving your level best towards good cause and I strongly believe all you will be repaid one way or another on a beautiful one day! Insyallah :)

"HH Sayyida Dr Muna, Welcome to the Malaysian Stall" > Our Guest of Honour with the Bunga Telor :)

The Perwakilan Muscat 'Ladies in Red' captured the eyes of the journalist of the Tribune Mirror :D

The article contains interviews with the Ambassadors' Wives about their participations in the Charity Bazaar and what their stalls sold that lured the customers to buy. Indeed, Perwakilan Muscat Ladies stall did well to entice the customers with their delicious foodies home cooked by them! Well Done Ladies :)

11.12.13: A Day 4 Chaat!

The weather was cool. The date was awesome: 11.12.13! The hostess was sweet and hospitable. The company was  joyful and the foodies were extremely delicious! Well, Well, Well Mussy > What more could you ask on this beautiful morning? Everything was superb. 

Indeed, my greatest gratitude to Mrs Ajith from Bangalore for this beautiful Wednesday morning surrounded by carefree friends with lots of stories to share, among others the memorial services of South  African icon Nelson Mandela and of course the authentic Indian cuisines which all of us ate and 'gulped' happily!

From the ever jovial hostess, I got to know the names of the foodies which  I truly like such as the deep-fried chaat and paneer puri. Of course there were chapati and chicken korma. The desserts include gulap jammun. And to quench our thirst apart from the normal juices, we were also served with chai. Wallah! All were great cuisines that made my belly almost burst :D

I immediately fell in love for chaat - the deep-fried Indian snacks which was stuffed with a variety of fillings including potatoes, beans and chick peas. It was later topped with yogurts. The textures, flavors  and spices delightfully tingled my tongue and provoked my palate. Wow, it was extremely delicious that I asked for more helpings! LOL :D

Lovely crowd @Mrs Ajith's garden. As seen here Ms S helped to explain the delicious chaat to a friend :)

One for the album: From left our sweet hostess Mrs Ajith, Sush, me and Trice in X-Mas colours!!! Big TQ Mrs Ajith for introducing me to Chaat and meeting new friends from all across the globe :D

Pre X-Mas @RJ MirbatCrib!

The theme was red & black! And there, waiting for us at her cosy and ever welcoming home was our hostess RJ in her 'dress to kill' with an open arms and full of smiles ...

The ever sweet and homely RJ with a wide range and spread of foodies @Pre X-Mas Gathering in Mirbat, MSQ. Big TQ Becca for all the Delicious Meals & Desserts!

Being a Sarawakian beauty, not only RJ served all of us with her authentic Laksa Sarawak, but her skills for making yummy desserts was proven with spread of cheese cake, chocolate batik cake and several mouth-watering cookies including crunchy almond London! Indeed, I was already amazed with her good cooking skills. But, what amazed me further was her superb creativity and unique style in arranging them all beautifully and enticingly on the designer Potmeirion Collection platters as well as placed them neatly onto decorated dining table with X-Mas theme. That was truly awesome and I undoubtedly  admired her deco style!

I have known RJ for two years and so far she has never failed to join our Perwakilan Muscat activities either in or  outside  RumahMalaysia. In fact, the forever gentle sweet mother of four grown up children has never come to our residence empty handed. There's always a platter of dessert accompanying her, be it kuih lapis Sarawak, freshly aromatic baked bread or caramel sponge cake! 

It does not stop there. Instead, whenever we had Charity Bazaar for the less privilege, RJ will always be among the first persons to give her contributions through foodies to be sold at the Perwakilan stall where the proceeds will be channeled to the needy! Also, as a true Malaysian in a foreign land who loves her motherland, RJ even took part in showcasing our tradition and culture by taking part in various cultural performances such as traditional  fashion show and ethnic dance to welcome guests from her longhouse native land! 

She is indeed a true blue sporting person :) With people like RJ in our community, one need not worry or feeling afraid of short of helping hands. She's always there to offer her assistance for she is a kind blessed soul. Alhamdulilah, on a personal note, I am truly delighted to know her and what more to share her joyous moments with her and her wonderful friends @Pre X-Mas Gathering  in her lovely and creatively designed MirbatCrib! 

Wit RJ @MirbatCrib in Red&Black theme

It was also in MirbatCrib that I met and made new friends from the host country an Omani and other nationalities such as Croatian, Vietnamese and the Philippines. We exchanged notes about our culture and tradition with each other. Thus, not surprising our friendship grew and all these were made possible through the kind and lively gesture of our hostess RJ! To RJ and her family, I wish them well and may our existing friendship grows stronger and blossoms like the sunflower throughout the year :D