The Scarlet Letter

I onced read a book The Scarlet Letter written by Nathaniel Hawthorne. It was a romantic work of fiction set in a 17th century historical setting in Puritan Salem, Massachusetts. And yesterday, I was truly delightful to watch the 1995 movie adapted from the novel starring Demi Moore, Gary Oldman and Robert Duvall :D

While watching the movie, my mind quickly soared to my primary school days @ESK. It wasn't so much about the story of love, loyalty, vengeance and betrayal in the movie but the crucial red letter 'A' that was sewn to Hester Prynne's garment which she had to wear for others to see and form part of public humilation against her. Also it was a sign of shame which she had to carry every where she went for the act she did! 

Between 1960s -1970s in a co-ed primary school, some of my classmates would crack jokes to others by silently pasting scarlet letters or words to another student's back whom they 'antagonized' just for fun! Not all but most of the times the ever mischievous energetic group of boys over a very shy girl or a newcomer. Some of the words used were "Please, Kiss Me" or "I'm a Fool" or "I'm a Cry Baby :(". The poor shy student being funly 'bullied' normally did not know about the joke or he / she had no idea whatsoever that someone naughty had pasted such scarlet letters or red words on his / her backs quietly. 

Hence, when he or she walked and others saw 'The Scarlet Letter' they will make lots of fun against the poor chap or the truly upset girl! Those days, when I saw my young friends laughing at the terribly distraught students, my heart sank and felt sorry for all of them - both the intimidators and the ones being intimidated :( Perhaps it was amusing for some people. But, at that time they were very young and do not know the meaning of feelings! Sometimes, it was unbearable and the humiliation was too graved to the one being 'abused' or for him / her to bear the unbearable grieve! It will become his or her 'unseen' scar for life. They will become demoralized, lack of confidence and always see themselves as someone not worthy. In other words, the mentally 'abused' young students will face phycological problems of shame, despair and solitude in the future for they lack self esteem.  

However, if one would take it positively most of the time with full fun spirit and genuine joke the so called game during the innocence student days was quite tolerable :D For example the quite normal   gesture during April Fool Day. A person would stamp a Letter "I am Beautiful" or "Ask me to Sing. I'm a Good Singer!" or "I have talent!" at another person's back without he or she noticing it. The words used were generally positive instead of negative.  It's more of sporting spirits to make one tougher to face his / her future with a little bit of 'toughen up' exercise to make one's joy. This Scarlet Letter game on the other hand did give positive impact to the person who was 'bullied' positively. As happened to a friend of mine who became a good comedian apart from her permanent vocation as a full fledged lawyer!

But one must always remember that at all times while playing the game of Scarlet Letter never with the intention of abuse or putting down others! It's merely for fun with free spirit of enjoyment where we had a saying "All work with no play makes Jack a dull boy!" Especially for young children with young minds where they are full of energy and many ideas. They need to spread their energy on to something, so they may have game for fun but whatever game they administered, it must be well guarded and not to be detrimental on them and others :)

Thus, the movie The Scarlet Letter reminded me of my childhood friends and truly brought beautiful memories to my primary school days @ESK! 

The movie which brought back memories to my childhood days @ESK. It reminds me of my friends who were then mischievous and now in their fifties. Also, I came to know that some sweet friends have left us for the permanent world. But, to those friends who are still here, My Prayer that you're all in good health and May your life be blessed by His Almighty Allah SWT. Amin.

Catherine The Great Inspires Me!

It's a long stretched weekend in a cool wintery season. Most of my friends took the opportunity to cross border over a four hour drive to neighboring Dubai for winter shopping and some skyscrappers sightings. Some went camping at the Wadis from Wadi Hoqayn to Wadi Henai. Others went up the canyons at the mountain of the sun or Jebel Sham and later crossed to the green mountain called Jebel Akhdar for spectacular scenic views. A few preferred to lay their bodies on the soft dunes while staring at the stars for 1001 Arabian night experience. Nearer to home, many families went to Seeb Beaches and collected buckets and buckets of fresh clams during low tide. In my case, the three to four off days over the long weekend was well spent with Mr Right @home-sweet-home. 

After being invited for a Birthday Bash of a to be young doctor with Black & Red theme that lasted till wee hours, we had great time over the two remaining days to soften our elderly muscles by relaxing them without doing anything except our eyes glued on the screens - he at PS3 and me on my faithful iPad watching movies one after the other :D Of all the classic movies The Aristocrat, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Three Muskateers and others which I watched, the biography of the longest ruling Empress of Russia Catherine The Great inspired me the most. Her Power, Her Intrigue and Her Passion truly brought to mind about something on 'everyone has a story to tell' and to be shared!

Born on 1729 in Stettin and barely fifteen the former German-Prussian Princess Sophia Augusta Frederika left her home to the Russian court and later married to Peter III, then Grand Duke Peter of Holstein-Gottorp. She was named Catherine after being received into the Russian Orthodox Church. An inteligent young lady she even learned Russian language. She also escaped from her lifeless marriage to other passions mainly riding, reading, diplomacy, arts and culture. She read widely and corresponded with many thinkers of that era namely French writer Francois-Marie Arouet @Voltaire and philosopher Denis Diderot. Hence, not surprising during her reign her main interests were in education and culture. This suited well with her desire when she wrote in her memoir that she already made up her mind when she took the journey to Russia - "to do whatever was necessary, and to profess to believe what was required of her, to become qualified to wear the Crown."

Her publicly known 'private-life' aside , I truly admired her courage and determination as a young lady and later as Empress of Russia for more than three decades. She was thirty three when she became the Tzarina and one of the country's most influential rulers liken to Peter The Great. Like most women, she needed a man in her life. That person was her life-time favourite Prince Grigori Aleksandrovich Potemkin-Tavricheski, a Russian military leader or Grand Admiral. 

With this trusted tall and broad partner in a remarkable partnersip she shared her passion in expansioning her nation and  subsequently   peacefully annexed Crimea. Potemkin always eager to prove his worth to her and once wrote: "The only way I can express my gratitude to Your Majesty is to shed my blood for Your glory ..." Indeed, most of their letters survived which according to Montefiore in 2001 revealed their "...mutually admired intelligence and power." His death with Catherine's letter in his pocket certainly distraught her and ordered all social life in St. Petersburg be put on hold!

Another aspect of Catherine The Great which inspired me was not only her challenged of the social norms of the time for the betterment of her people but also her humanity to her subjects. She's modest to her people within her households. She's a champion for education, thus the legislation of the Statute of National Education was not a surprised. When she found one of her servants was reading a book, that gave her the idea to have a palace library that soon collected 38,000 books. She wrote a manual for the education of young children and founded the famous Smolny Institute for young girls of the nobility and was later opened to petit-bourgeois. She always believed that education could change one's life and turn them away from backwardness. Today her legacy of art and culture formed the foundation of Hermitage Museum, one of the oldest museums in the world with over three million items! She knew what she wanted and what she was doing! 

Finally, five years after Portemkin's death she died at aged 67 after ruled Russia for 34 years. In sum, the name given to her as Catherine The Great truly reflected her personality and contributions.  Indeed, she had changed the landscape of Russia as well as an Empress who brought humanity and tolerance to her people and nation! 

Picture of Catherine The Great (copyright of history.com from google image)

"Fearless in war, passionate in love, ruthless with her opponents, she would transform her struggling nation into a modern empire. From her intimate memoir and her personal letters, this is the story of Catherine The Great!" The Movie during wintery season that inspires me :) Acknowledgement to YouTube by Alexandrian220.

My 200th Jotting?

I just couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the screen showed > Blog Archive 2013 (199) which means this writing will be my 200th Jotting? Or my eyes are 'playing hide and seek' with my mind? No, they weren't for I'm pretty sure of the  bold number ...

Indeed, it is :)) Wow! I did it in seven months from May to November this year. Alhamdulilah, my heartiest gratitude to Allah SWT for His Grace in this selfie accomplishment. But, my sincere Thank You goes to Perwakilan Muscat Media and Information Committee that made this 'self journey' of writing a blog dream comes true! To Intan D'VogueMom and Amizian Truly Amy, all my  thank you wishes to you for making this quest happening :D I may not able to reach the unreachable stars, but I believe that I have accomplished my self target to brave what I dare not do then! With that confidence, insyallah I will continue to jot more based on what my Chinese eyes see and what touches my little heart :)) 

When I started this 'journey' my main purpose was to share my writings with my children and perhaps with future grandchildren when the time comes with a view if I'm not able to see them in person, then they will be able to know me via my jottings. However, along the way I was abled to share some experiences and stories with my loved ones, closed blog group and a few friends when I personally forward to them since I'm still not ready to open it to all as yet. Perhaps one day, when I'm truly ready ... 

I also believe that time is of the essence and since I'm now part of the golden girls, so whatever I received from Allah SWT is truly 'rahmat' to me, especially the good health, the fountain of love and mercy flowing over me, lovingly brought into this world by responsible and caring parents, great childhood life with siblings, fair share of friends along the way to my adulthood, having Mr Right as my blessed partner in a blissful marriage life, wonderful children, also students and existing family and friends far and near as well as all the beautiful things that had happened to me thus far. While I still want more, on the beautiful things that had been bestowed upon me or happened to me I wish to share them through my jottings which I believe every one has a unique tale or story to tell and from it perhaps we can all learn and grow from. 

So, what more shall I jot on my 200th Jotting? May be on 'Everyone has a Story!' Just like yesterday, I was interviewed by Mr Correspondent about the charity event which my colleague and I took part @MGM. After the interview session, the table turned where I queried Mr Correspondent as to how long he has been in Muscat? To my surprised, he happily answered, "Thirteen years, Mam." Wow, that was long for a foreigner to stay in a particular country. Then, he freely narrated and shared his story about how it happened. It started with his wife who came here first fourteen years ago and worked at one of the colleges. At that time they had two children. The following year he followed his wife's trail with a plan to work in Muscat for just two years or so. 

But, time flies and without realizing it > tick tock tick tock - Wallah! It's already thirteen years with an extended family i.e. now with four wonderful kids where the eldest had just graduated, whereas his second is now entering college and the third in high school. And the youngest child has just turned three! Isn't that awesome :D Indeed, I'm truly happy for him who told me that he is absolutely grateful to 'land' in this blessed country with exceptionally warm hospitable people. He find happiness here with his six-some family, satisfactory vocation, good education for his growing up children, but of course they have not forgotten their motherland - hence they occasionally visited their evergreen home-sweet-home and their relatives.

Before we part, we thanked each other for the 'interview' and hoped to cross path again for more stories. To Mr Correspondent, all the Best Wishes in your Life and also your Career, Sir which was once my biggest dream!

My 199th Jotting ... When I looked at this figure, I could not believe it at first. But, soon after it gives me the 'booster' to continue with my jottings based on what I see and what touches my heart :D

My 1st Jotting > I Did It! My sincere and heartfelt TQ to Intan Felisha and Amizian Azlina for their faith in me to try my hands on 'blogging'!

I shall miss Amy's presence in Muscat but certainly not her writings through Truly Amy :))

Brave D'Rain4Sumtin' Hot!Hot!Hot!

On one 'beautiful' night without stars in Muscat, most of us were caught with a pleasant surprised of its heavy hailstones! Although rain was expected in this desert land as forecasted by the weather info for the blessed month of November, yet none of us expected to experience whitish and pearly hailstones coming down from the black sky straight into our fingers! That was frightening yet truly incredible and awesome experience for those staying in Bausher and more so in Al Batinah region.

On that evening, my better half had a program to chair a meeting @Treasurer's Home in Azaiba and for that matter I was invited for a dinner after the meeting ended where we were told the main menu would be Sumtin' Hot! Hot! Hot! aka Laksa Sarawak! Since the sky was dark we were contemplating to go or not to go? But my better half said, we had to - first for the meeting and secondly not to disappoint our host who had gone through all the troubles to prepare the venue for the meeting and more so for cooking the foodies especially the Laksa Sarawak which he described as Sumtin' Hot! Hot! Hot! which should not to be missed even if there's hailstorm! LOL :D

So, what is so special about Laksa Sarawak? Through my own experience and perhaps those who have tasted it would agree for a thumb's up that it is a special cuisine. Not only hot as to its taste but it makes our body hot, too with the special homemade Sarawakian paste used in the gravy. Once try Twice no shy! Well, That's quite true since I saw my better half took his second helping of the delicious hot and spicy foodie. And, interestingly the other committee members also braved the rain and storm to attend the evening turned night meeting mainly due to the attraction from Sumtin' Hot! Hot! Hot! as the X-tra pulling factor.

Just to share, Laksa Sarawak comes from east Malaysia namely the state of Sarawak where a special paste will be added to meat, chicken and prawn stock when making the soup or broth. Once done, some coconut milk should be added into it which resulted in a heavenly thick and creamy gravy! This steamy hot and spicy gravy is to be poured or ladled upon soaked and dried rice vermicelli, the ready condiments which include boiled prawns, shredded boiled chicken and thinly cut fried omelette with other toppings mainly fresh bean sprouts, spring onions, coriander leaves and sprinkle fried shallots. Wallah, with a squeeze of wedge lime into the mixture, one will surely enjoy the delicious Hot! Hot! Hot! Laksa Sarawak. That was what actually happened at the Treasurer's Home where the braving act over the rain and storm was truly worth one's while!

Our Big TQ to the host for the Sumtin' Hot! Hot! Hot! to overcome the cold weather. And, of course the meeting resumed after 'isi minyak' which went very well and a fruitful brainstorming session was accomplished that brought big grin to the Chairman's face :))

The X-Factor for the meeting -> Sumtin' Hot!Hot!Hot Laksa Sarawak :D

Braving the Rain 4 Sumtin' Hot!Hot!Hot :)

The hazard of HailStones in Bausher did not hamper the spirit for Sumtin' Hot!Hot!Hot!

Love Knows No Bounds ...

I was watching an old 1980 movie A Tale of Two Cities starring Chris Sarandon, Peter Cushing, Kenneth More, Flora Robson and many others based on a novel written by Charles Dickens when my mobile buzzed. It was a message from my daughter who wrote, "I feel so touched reading your blog Ma. It made my eyes watery ... I can't wait to spend my time with You, Ayah and Gary ... Now, I'm counting my days ..." 

Reading those lines brought tears to my eyes, too for I'm longing for her and now counting down the days for her arrival. Though we are far apart and separated by the oceans but we both know that our love knows no bounds! The mother-daughter relationship is a sacred bonding which only the duo know and feel. Most of the time the feelings were beyond descriptions which words could not describe but certainly could be sensed by them and them alone! In silence my heart soars to her. Anyway, after I replied her message I continued watching the two and half hours movie till  the end which once again made my eyes welled with tears for it taught me more about human relations and secrets of the hearts.

The Dickens adapted movie which was set in 18th century London and Paris focused on many human relationships which one should emulate between a devoted long lost father Dr Alexander Manette and his blue eyes-golden hair daughter Lucie Manette; between master and servant as protrayed by Charles Darnay who had given up his ties with the noble Evremonde and the risk he took to save his servant Gabelle. And vice versa in the character of governess Miss Pross who was very loyal to her charge Lucie Manette. Also the beautiful relationship between loyal friends the banker Mr Lorry with Dr Mannet a former long-term prisoner in Bastille and among stranger turns  saviour in the character of disreputable but brilliant lawyer Sydney Carton who saved the life of his 'near-perfect resemblance' in Charles Darnay an exiled French aristocrat. 

The moving movie also portrays true love knows no bounds as showed by Carton who sacrificed himself  for Lucie Manette's happiness whom he loves dearly although he knew the unrequited love he gave can never be returned. Yet, the human relationship showed here not necessarily stemmed for lust but love that derived from pure hearts. To take the place of Lucie's husband Charles Darnay for the guillotine may be viewed as a 'foolish act' but certainly one  would do in the name of pure love to another without wanting anything in return! And that was exactly what Carton did and he felt so good with no grieve at all. Before his sacrificial death among others he uttered in soothing certainty, "I see a beautiful city and a brilliant people rising from this abyss ... I see him winning it so well, that my name is made illustrious there by the light of his ... It is far, far better thing that I do, than I ever have done; it is far, far better rest I go than I ever known."

Indeed, as shown by all the noble characters in the movie my true love to my daughter knows no bounds as similarly shown by my better half to me. On this, part of the lyrics of the song written by Robbie O'Connell (1988) lingered in my mind:

When a man's in love, he feels no sorrow

His heart is free of every care

He only dreams about tomorrow

He seldom speaks of yesterday 

Love knows no bounds, love has no season

It blooms as bright as a Summer rose

It lasts for years or for no reason

It fades away like the Winter snow

Sacred Love Between Mother & Daughter Knows No Bounds! It has no season nor reason. It's always there ... :)

Memories of Diplo-Kids

I received a message from a friend inviting me to visit the Malaysian stall whose children's school BSM will celebrate International Day and Malaysia will be participating in the momentous event. I accepted her invitation happily since it reminds me of my diplo-kids wonderful time in both AISK and AISY while proudly celebrating their D'Day with teachers, parents of their friends and fellow buddies! It was one of the school's events which I believe every parents and certainly to me back then as a Mom always counting our days to participate! Those days about two decades ago we always look forward to such event with feeling of eagerness to share our nation's culture with the kids' teachers, friends and visitors from other nationalities. 

As Mothers, I remembered my friends Watie, Zara, Annie and Rozie where we join hands and did all the preparations for the International Day - not just by preparing foodies but also guided our school going children to  show case our Malaysian culture through welcoming dance performance "Selamat Datang" that attracted the crowds to our stall! Oh!  Those were the days yet till today still remain beautiful memories to all of us as DS or expat-wives :)

Coming back to the BSM International Day, when the day finally arrived, I was very happy to witness the Malaysian team comprising of several mothers in promoting and sharing their beautiful motherland with the visitors who went to their stall which was beautifully decorated with Malaysian banner and handicrafts. There were spread of Delicious Foodies home cooked by the ever caring Moms to be sold at the well decorated stall where the proceeds will be given to the school for their children's school projects. I believe it was a beautiful gesture with generous contribution from each nation that took part in the event to the school which their countrymen's children attend and gain valuable knowledge for their future life in return. 

However, what touched my heart most was their conduct of joining hands, the working   together with unity and and feelings of esprit de corp that they shared among themselves to ensure the success and smooth running of the important day for their children which was truly commendable. And, I was proud to see the hospitality and their smiling faces when they greeted the visitors with "Selamat Datang" or Welcome to Malaysia. Indeed, that was the Malaysia truly Asia sprit! 

While in the 'International Ground' I took the opportunity to go around and stop to browse and sometimes buy some souvenirs at other nations' stalls. Among others, the Indians, Pakistani, Canadians, Japanese, African, Indonesian, Russians and of course the UK stall. It was a day to be remembered and all the memories of my diplo-kids joyous moments when they were young and still in schools came back to my mind while I observed and witnessed the happy moments as BSM celebrating her International  Day. And, most of all, I'm very pleased to see a young boy who was smiling and happily helped his mother in the stall by selling the delicious foodies and some Christmas cards to their teachers and fellow school friends in one of the stalls. That was truly awesome! Indeed, he's the proud of every Mom :))

A helping hand to be emulated by all -"Treasurer, Here's the Proceeds from the Sales!" :D

@The Malaysian stall in BSM with the ever caring Moms in promoting our nation hospitality and foodies :))

Count Down ...

I am counting the days ...

In less than a month, my dearest daughter Lisa will come and visit me in Muscat. As a 'diplo-mom' who lives miles and miles away from her 'diplo-kids' and with full knowledge that her no longer kiddos instead a grown up young lady will come truly boasts a mom's longing spirit of her loved one!

Apart from to make her room ready, I wanted to make sure that Gary's fur is back to normal > thick hairy furry just like the day before we sent him for grooming! I'm not so sure about it, but certainly I'm hoping and praying hard that it'll be liked status quo :D Since Gary is Lisa's pet and the last time she set eyes on him was almost a year ago, I desperately want her to see the best of him. All the while, I only send her the pictures of him in various actions and antics! And, she too is impatient to meet him again. Alas, I hope I won't disappoint her ;(( 

While counting down the days, I also make a check list of some foodies that I would like to cook for her. Among others,  the popular Malaysian cuisines nasi lemak with sambal tumis ikan bilis and all it's condiments, roti canai with fish curry, soto ayam and of course her favourite Cokodok Ikan Bilis with Sambal Ketuk and Bubur Lambuk. 

Other than the above, I planned to have some Mother-Daughter bonding time over some foodies in various cosy restaurants which I think she would enjoy such as in Shakespeare and Al Mouj both @The Wave. The former has beautiful Victorian ambience whereas the latter is of high end Golf Club which has cosy environment over looking the green! Also I wish to take her to Crepe and of course at her favorite eating place for Fish & Chips @D'Arcy Kitchen in Jawarat Shatti. 

Knowing that she'll come to visit me, I already prepared for her some clothing and dresses with the hope that she'll like all of them. In fact, next month too will be her 23rd Birthday. So I am planning to take her out for a Birthday Bash. Perhaps her Dad has a place in mind of where to celebrate her momentous day. Last year Dad presented an iPhone as her birthday gift. Yet, for this year I have not heard of anything. May be a surprise gift when the time comes :))

So far when we chat virtually via FB or send messages through emails, she always poured her heart out and sometimes about her feeling stress @workplace. However, after listening to her grouses, I always encouraged her to be patience as well as be nice but firm to others. And, I told her to continue working where the bonus is to spend time with us during her vacation which she truly liked and looking forward to meeting US > Mama & Ayah! The count down to meet each other always bring smiles to both Mother and Daughter :))

Lisa - waiting anxiously for the arrival of Malaysian Former Prime Minister  & Wife @RumahMalaysia in Qurum 29, Muscat during her visit last year '2012'! As Flower Girl, she wrote in her FB: Getting Ready to meet Tun Dr Mahathir and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah. Excited+Nervous!

A bouquet to Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali. A joyous moment for Lisa :))

BFL ... Here We Come :D

I missed my day in shedding some Excess Pounds (Wow not Sterling Pounds LOL!) by strolling and window-shopping in Harrods and many designer shops like Burberry, Jaeger and Karen Millen in Knightsbridge apart from stopping by in all the branded good stores like Gucci, Salvator Ferragamo, Prada, and Louis Vuitton in Sloane Street. I'm missing the brisk walking along Oxford Streets while stopping by for new stocks and look outs in preparation for Summer or Winter Sales in Russell & Bromley and the mega mall Selfridges that housed designers' collection. From there, I used to walk towards the Oldest World Top Boutique i.e. Liberty in Regent Street which is famous for its top designer labels like Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo!

I also missed the Outlet Shopping Centres @BicesterVillage in Oxfordshire and ClarksVillage in Somerset where they house luxury fashion shops, homeware boutique and discounted designer stores!   Not only the Outlets offer more than 100 stores, but they also have restaurants and cafes to entertain the whole family. These Outlets were value for money to shoppers where they obtained branded and designer goods with high street price! Within London, the BigLabel-SmallPrice  could be found in TKMaxx@Kensington High Street or Charing Cross and Hammersmith. Indeed, why pay more in 'Big Malls' when we could get the same branded goods at a reduced price in TKMaxx!

I never thought in Oman we could get some of the branded goods with an outstanding deals? Yet, indeed we did @Brand For Less :) which opened its first store in MAB Mall. Just to name a few of the designer goods there include Coach, DKNY, Calvin Klein, Jessica Simpson, French Connection and Guess. BFL is actually an official franchise of the German brand Tchibo. Their mission when they established it was "to add interest in buying things that makes people happy, with brand that help them look good, feel good and get more out of life." Truly, I'm feeling good when shopped @BFL mainly for the quality goods that I want and at the price which I want! As Penny Fray discovered in How to Become a Bargainista: "You don't have to sacrifice style to make clever cutbacks in Muscat." And of course to shop intelligently since we all know frugality is paramount. Especially if we could get up to 80 percent discount of its original price for our favourite brands, Yes! Go for it!

Frugality is paramount! BFL makes us happy with Big Brands but only a Fraction  of its Original Price :D

-25 Degrees!

Are you ready to go into a cold room with -25 Degrees C?

Indeed, we were the spirited sporting ladies from ALC Muscat during our memorable visit to Al Madina Logistic Services (AMLS) in Barkha. A few of us braved ourselves in the cold room that stored frozen foodies for half an hour although most of the ladies preferred to just glimpse through and out in no time :D

The visit to the biggest cold storage in Oman which run 3PL or Third Party Logistic concept was made possible by Sarala whose better half Mr Sanjivee is the GM @AMLS. Our request to have a tour of the cold storage as part of our ALC activities 2013 received positive responds and thumbs up from AMLS Top Management. Truthfully, we were honoured by the very warm hospitality showered by the warm hearted GM and his ever smiling staff Fatma as well as Weedat from HR Office and other staff in her departments.

We were then ushered into the Board Meeting Room where the ever enthusiastic Mr Zaki was already waiting for us to give his briefing about the tour. But on the table big breakfast was waiting patiently for us to gulp them all! But, we refrained ourselves from doing so and waited for the Chief Operating Officer Mr Kemp to give us some insights about the Company which was established "to spearhead the task of leading the Logistic and Supply Chain Sector in Oman." Mr Kemp happily continued to brief us that AMLS offered services which include freight forwarding, transportation, warehousing, open yard /container yard and Professional Logistic Consultancy.  

Once done with the valuable briefings, Q&A and safety procedures to be followed at all times, all of us were given a guided tour to the Cold Room. Some of us were fully prepared for the tour with warm clothing,  jackets, shawls and gloves. During our tour into the cold warehouse, I was amazed with the paperless system the Company has adopted which was truly awesome to apply in this century that could save money, save space, keep information more secured and more often than not it also boasts incentives and productivity. We were informed that all transactions were made via computers that use special software for their purposes between them and their clients. So there's no hassle of phone calls or paper documentations needed. 

Also what amazed me was the beautiful layout of the trusted plant which was very stringent in their quality control particularly they are trusted in handling perishable goods and frozen foods of their clients! It is one of their prime tasks to ensure zero risk of food contamination, food spoilage, and food-borne illness. The marked of expiry dates are paramount and all are done professionally and digitally stored in the computers. Hence, it is not surprising that AMLS with the state of the art and flagship facilities and services offered to all, currently ranked among the largest of its kind in the Sultanate. And, so far they have set up a wonderful network of major warehousing and planned many distribution centers all across the key cities in Oman. 

As far as ALC members is concerned, we are truly fortunate to be accepted to tour the sophisticated Cold Storage. The knowledge shared with us by AMLS Top Management and Staff about food handling was not only awesome but exceptionally valuable and beneficial to all ladies, housewives and mothers. Especially when handling meat or poultry,  the colour of these products are paramount. According to USDA, "change in colour alone does not mean the product is spoiled. But, with spoilage there can be a change in colour, very often it is seen fading or darkening!" Moreover when the meat or poultry colour changed, they will give bad smell or having an off adore, sometimes sticky or tacky to the touch, or it may be slimy. If both meat and poultry have developed these characteristics, it is advisable not to use it anymore or it will be detrimental to our health! A top notch tip from the experts which we are truthfully thankful :)

In sum, our heartiest Thank You and Warm Appreciation to AMLS for welcoming and accepting us. Also for the wonderful souvenir for my 'mugging collections' and lovely hospitality which we received from kind-hearted personnel :)- We enjoyed the -25 Degree Cold Room in AMLS! We may not be able to return the favour, but we believe Insyallah the Almighty Allah SWT will grace and return all the good deeds and valuable knowledge which you had shared with us! Amin.

Big TQ: A meaningful souvenir for my 'Mugging Collections' from ALMS :D

Love Thy Neighbours ...

Who is nearest to us apart from immediate families? I believe they are our neighbours > persons who live next to us. If we are in pain who do we turn to? If our wife is in labour whom do will call for help? Of course the most logical answers would be to call for doctors and go to the hospital. Also to call our Moms :( but unfortunately they lived far away from us. Worst still if we do not have the means and panic attacks for immediate help  during that emergency, then the nearest persons for us to run to and knock the door at the middle of the night would be our neighbour! 

Therefore, in our 'unwritten vocabulary' we have the term Love Thy Neighbour! I strongly believe with this solidarity for if our neighbour is happy, we will live peacefully; and if our neighbour needs help, we must be the first person to offer our hands! In my language we have a saying 'Malang tak Berbau' which among others mean 'disaster cannot be sniffed out' or we can't smell danger or we don't know when mishap will befall us. So, if any of these things happen to any of our us or to our neighbours, the most logical and appropriate gestures were to render help and offer our assistance the best we could extend to them.

A small deed but with sincere hearts and feelings from us during this trying time will mean a lot to the recipient. If one could not offer assistance in kind, just a shoulder to lean for her grieve will suffice to someone in need. But, if we have the means to contribute more such as in monetary terms that will surely ease the burden suffered by our neighbours. And this can be done in many ways including donation drive through passing of hats or by organizing a charity bazaar where the proceeds from sales could be channeled to the needy and victims of the mishaps suffered by our neighbours. 

The truth, that was exactly what we deed in Muscat among the ASEAN Community by organizing a half day ALC Charity Bazaar @MGM when we heard and knew that our neighbour the Philippines had suffered a tragedy due to strong and deadly typhoon Haiyan that affected its people. The ever caring ladies from six ASEAN (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand) countries in the Sultanate of Oman had joined hands to sell foods at their stalls in the foyer of MGM that attracted many generous people from all walks of life to do their part by buying the foodies and in returned whatever amount they gave were channeled to the charity! I also  observed some beautiful hearted samaritans just gave their donations without wanting anything in return in the name of worthy cause which was awesome, really sweet and heart warming. My prayers go to those compassionate hearts for their generosity and well being. Amin.

Here, kuddos to the management of MGM who allowed the usage of the foyer for free also in the name of charity. Credit goes to all the ASEAN embassies, their ever helpful willing staff and Ladies Wings such as Perwakilan Muscat and others that gave full support for this charitable event. And to our beloved neighbor the Philippines and the affected Filipino friends, our hearts are all for you. We did these good deeds also for you for we love you. As human beings, our knowledge are limited. We do not know, for only Allah SWT knows what will happen to us today, tomorrow or the future. My dear neighbour, anything can happen to us. We already know that today is your day, but perhaps tomorrow will be our day!?! So, here we are - all very happy to join hands to assist in the name of good cause in whatever way we can to ease some of your burdens. My Neighbour, My Friend - When you cry, we too cry; but when we smile, we want you to smile, too. May our ASEAN solidarity and true neighbourly spirit and love well intact within us :)

One for the album: ALC Patrons after the handing  of the proceeds from the bazaar with Ms Joyce, Charge de Affairs of the Philippines Embassy @MGM

We did our part in 'A Caring and Sharing Community' ALC Charity Bazaar for victims for typhoon Haiyan @MGM: A pose of the Malaysian ALC representatives after their tireless good deed with HE Ambassador Dato' Rustam Yahaya :)

Love Thy Neighbours: In these brave warm hearted ladies flow the forever ASEAN solidarity spirits and rendering hearts for good charitable deeds to those in needs. Bravo ALC Muscat!

While Snuggling ...

It's only 4pm. Yet no sign of sunlight in the  sky and instead it's cloudy. Also the weather was rather dark outside. From the news, Oman weather forecast reminds people that if they do not have anything urgent whatsoever, it'll be better to stay indoors. If possible throughout the weekend from Thursday evening to Sunday it is advisable to refrain from going to the Wadis. Similar remarks came from the ROP messages!

To pass my time during this rainy day in 'winter season' while snuggling under the comfy of warm duvet, I watched a British movie based on Thomas Hardy's novel Tess of the D'Uberville which was published in 1891. It's about a beautiful young maiden named Tess who was born to a couple John and Joan Durbeyfield in Wessex. Her ambition to be a teacher vanished when her family persuaded her to work with a lady Mrs D'Uberville - so called 'noble' family whose husband Simon Stoke had purchased the baronial title and adopted the title although there's no relation whatsoever with the real but extinct D'Uberville! However, an innocent Tess who worked as the poultry keeper in the estate was raped by the baroness son Alec. With shamed she left the mansion and later gave birth to a son. But her happiness did not last when her sickly son Sorrow died. After that tragedy, Tess's already misery life turns from bad to worst ... :( However, she found solace with a minute glimpse of happiness with her husband Angel Clare just a day before her execution at Winchester Prison for murdering Alec. 

What I liked most about the movie was the place - Wessex which is located in South England. While watching the movie, the place and its surroundings brought notable memories and nostalgic feelings to me to one autumn season two and half years ago. Mr Right and I drove down from London in our Black Cat and visited several counties in Wessex including Plymouth and Exeter before  exploring the heart of Devon. Both places are known for their beauty and picturesque countryside. Plymouth is known as a city for family holidays and had the scene of Sir Francis Drake's lagendary game of bowls! Whereas Exeter is known for its exciting mix of culture, history and heritage especially "with its 2000 year history blends smoothly with the contemporary and modern sides of the city."

But I fell in love at first sight to Devon which is bounded by Cornwall to the west, Somerset to the northeast and Dorset to the east. The landscape in Devon consists of "rolling hills dotted with small towns" such as Dartmouth and Salcombe. Driving through this wilderness in a sporty and an opened roof top Blackie was truly an unforgettable experience. I was amazed with the stunning scenery and in particular the rugged beauty of Dartmouth which had inspired a British author Authur Conan Doyle to write the famous story The Hound of the Baskervilles. At the same time, I was mesmerized with her red sandstone cliffs, beautiful  beaches and sea views which were all breathtaking! In fact, our memorable trip to Devon had open my eyes to a county of contrast. It offered the   best of countryside, coastline, ancient ruins and the shopping centres of the new world. Also with its glorious grounds and the constrast beauty of Exmoor, it is not surprising to see Devon as homes to many stunning stately houses which I could only dream off :D

The movie adapted from Hardy's novel which brought nostalgic memories to me down memory lane around Wessex  and the Heart of Devon. Picture Copyright of Google Image @fanpop.com

Golfie' Enthusiasts :D

It was on a cool Thursday morning when busy bee Moms decided for a change to try their hands on swinging the new golf clubs @Golf Academy in Muscat Hills instead of stirring their well used but faithful and musically worn out ladles into the pots and pans in their well kept kitchens! Two days before the event took place Mrs R went to HomeCentre looking for proper attire for the golfing day! She chose subtle purple outfit to the chagrin of Mr Right who thought she'll pick her favorite shocking pink (@^@). But her justification was that she'll no longer a sweet young thing but a little sober yet still sweet Mama. LOL!

Anyway, when the day finally came Mrs R was well geared up in her purple rain with her sport shoes and Porsche cap. Also a single glove for her left hand which she bought in London years ago, just in case she needed to use it @Golf Clinic! It'll surely come handy ;) Indeed, when she looked at the glove - 'old in age but new in appearance' suddenly brought nostalgic feelings to her. It reminds her of the fun time together with her friends (DS, Ton, Chah and Rush Rush) in London. There, they received advice and coaching instructions from a very young pro Mr Bobby! Well, that was five years ago! The only time she went for golf clinic in Hendon although she used to be tagged along by Mr Right for some hitting of golf balls at the driving range. 

Here, Mrs R tried her hands at golf again. This time with her enthusiastic friends (Nia, Sofee, Rin, Rose and Hanna) @Muscat Hills and Country Golf! They were freely coached by two young British  professionals Jade and Dave. It was a fruitful morning where they not only sweated out but most of all they learnt some of the golf language such as 18 holes, Hole-in-One, Par 3, Par 4, Par 5, Boogie, OB, tee-off, teeing, putting, fairway and strokes. Then the equipments such as driver, wood, iron, sand-wedge, pitching and putter. Wallah! That's not easy to remember. Perhaps I still prefer to memories Donoghue v Stevenson or Carlill v Carbolic Smoke Balls, which were a lot easier :D

After all the briefings, all of us were called  to try our hands with the gadgets and started with hitting the balls aka 'tee-off' with all our hearts! Since we were beginners Jade our coach advised us to use iron 7 instead of drivers  or woods. We were taught how to hold our gadgets the proper way and took special attention to our postures. Also to make sure of our right hands are properly positioned over the left hands while handling the clubs. Out in the green or fairway, the nearest pole was 100 yards yet out of thirty balls which I hit, I personally don't think that any of mine had ever reach that far Hu Hu Hu! The furthest was maybe 50-70 (I hope to believe :D)!

But the golf lessons which I like most were putting and 'around the world' taught by Dave! Putting was not easy but was truly fun where among others we learnt to be a very patience person. The golf language was "Rolled it, Controlled it, Holed it!" During these lessons I also met and befriended new friends Rasha and Sofia. Dave, our coach made us compete with each other to see who could score better! On putting, with dead aim of putter-face out of eight holes, I managed to score 6/8 during practice time, but dropped to 4/8 during the actual competition. Yeah, I was feeling good and definitely not too bad for a first timer!!!! My other two friends were doing okay, too. 

All in all, we truly had fun time while sweating out our excess fats :D Yet, there's a down side of golfing to me personally since I wasn't in favour to be under the hot sun which made my skin eadily tan and dry. Thus, the golf enthusiast in me did not last long :(( 

Doing my best @Golf Clinic :))

But the heat and 'pearly sweat' all over my face made me think hundred times to join the Academy (@^@)!!!

One for the album: Yours truly with friends and Brit's Coach Jade

I can't Live without You!

What would I do without You! Surely I'll be restless. My mind will suffer grave hunger for foods for thought. In no time my brain will be rusty and eventually die of slow death ... And, I wouldn't allow that to happen. At all cost, I'll make sure you'll always be with me and within my reach. Rain or Shine, you'll always be by my side :D

Why? It's all because I love You > My Reading Materials! I need you like I need air. You're 'oxygen' for my brain. I read any write up more or less from any material that was in front of me. But, most of the time my reading materials are books, magazines and newspapers. Nowadays, I also go for digital reading via my iPad and iPhone. It was really breeze to browse and read whatever I want through them. My gratitude to 'sonny' and Mr Right for these precious and priceless gadgets.

Indeed, I can't live without you, My Reading Materials! And, what did I read? I read anything from pages to pages, but above all, I love to read inspiring stories jotted down and shared by columnists from both local and foreign newspapers. Thus far, I loved to read Karim Raslan's Ceritalah and June Wong So Aunty, So What from The Star. Also, Trivial Travails by Mahesh Verma in Muscat Daily. 

To my delight, I recently discovered inspiring articles written by Online Columnists Davina Goh in her Gratitudist and Elizabeth Tai in Reading Revolution. Both writers gave me different perspective of seeing things which were great and mind provoking! One soared my turmoil mind to be contented with easy and frugal thinking and living while the others trained my not so digital savvy brain for latest and updated technological know how towards reading materials :)

In sum, I truly enjoyed and always immersed myself hours and hours flipping through pages and pages of the reading materials while at other times, my hands were kept busy sliding the screens of my mobile and tablet for latest updates! These are my true friends who shared with me their thoughts without waiting for me to agree or agree to disagree :D

The Food 4 Thought which I cannot Live without!!! Reading them kept me away from feeling restless and stressful life. TQ Reading Materials :D

Vibrant Colours!

When we are far away from home sweet home, we try our very best to celebrate all the festivals - be it Eids, Christmas or Chinese New Year with our multi racial friends together and feel as if we're all @home! And, today is of no exception when the beauties came and ignited RumahMalaysia in their vibrant colours for the Festival of Light  Celebration! We celebrated this day with a few friends from other countries to show case our unity as one nation that is rich with diversified cultures and unique traditions!

Me with my Vibrant Colours' Friends for the Bright & Bold Festival!

Not only these beauties are cheerful spouses and lovingly responsible moms but they are well talented in their own fields and passions who are ever willing to share with me many things about their traditions and cultures. Among others, in their customs they decorated their homes with a folk art from India known as rangoli. This creative art which is sometimes called kolum used colored rice in their designs.

Another aspect that caught my attention was their captivating traditional dresses namely the ever vibrant coloured and beautifully designed saree and of course the intricately two pieces eye catching attire shalwar kameez! So far when I saw ladies in their sarees at receptions, I was always amazed and wondered how did they wear them? Indeed, this morning I had the opportunity to find out how they wore these six to nine yards materials. Well, it wasn't easy at all. It involves lots of skill and know how and most of all patience! The sarees are worn over a petticoat called lehenga and also a small blouse called choli. Indeed, this intricate attire signifies the grace of my Indian friends which adequately displaying the beauty of all the wearer!

Others came in their shalwar kameez. The shalwar are loose pajama like trousers where the legs are wide at the top and narrowed at the ankle. On the other hand, the kameez are long tunic worn over the shalwar. This attire is sometimes referred to as Punjabi Suit which is much simpler to wear as compared to the Saree. Most women prefer these since the attire flatters practically any body-type persons :D

But festivals without the display or spread of foodies won't be joyful occasions! So, we were truly fortunate since our wonderful Indian friends prepared lots and lots of main foods and desserts for us. Among others were putu mayam or string hoppers which can be eaten with fresh grated coconut and jaggery or as savory dish to be taken with sothi namely a mild yellow coconut curry.  But, surely one cannot missed the crispy prata with butter chicken as well as the fragrance rice with hot and spicy   chicken curry, dalcha, dhall and popodum! Woosh ... In a second there goes my diet! LOL :D

All in all, I truly enjoyed the Festival of Light Celebration with my friends. I treasure their friendship for "the language of friendship is not words, but meanings. It is an intelligence above language" as said by Henry David Thoreau. Thus, in our true friendship spirit and camaraderie, I was happy that the whole event was fun and fruitful that reflected on all our faces with the Vibrant Colours' theme! 

Something to Savour for Years to Come: The Fun and Full of Memories Saree-Tying competition!

"Your Mistake, My Agony!"

I promised myself that I will never repeat this silly and stupid mistake again which resulted in your agony! Although you never mentioned it explicitly, but by the looks of your face, your eyes and your behavior, I know too well that you're angry with me, Gary. I could   read your feelings and absolutely understand   how you feel as if you're saying straight to my face, "Mom, how could you do this to me? Your Mistake, My Agony ..." Sob! Sob! Sob!

It all started last weekend when I booked for Gary's appointment for medical wash with the Clinic. For the past one and half years we always sent him for the medical wash as his monthly routine to keep him clean and his claws well trimmed. It normally took an hour and when we came back for him, his fur was fluffy after the clinical shampoo and blow dry and most of all he'll smell fresh and wonderful! 

But last week when the girl at the Clinic's reception asked me if I wanted to groom him, I answered affirmatively 'Yes!' with a view like the previous monthly routine. Then, she asked me again 'short' or 'medium' and I answered 'medium' with a personal view that 'short' connotes the groomer will cut his fur short which I have no intention at all!  In my mind, I just wanted his beautiful shaggy grayish fur trimmed only followed by the usual body wash and blow dry just like the norm. 

I truly love his shaggy grayish white fur and so far it has been my routine to brush his furry hair twice a day at home :) After I signed the paper and left Gary under the care of the so called groomer, we left the Clinic  for some coffee and blue berry muffins at Costa. Once done, we waited for Gary in the Clinic. This time it took us more than an hour's wait which was not normal but quite okay for us as long as Gary is fine and 'well groomed' meaning beautiful with great fluffy hair liken to a fantasy gray tiger's cub and beautiful aroma fresh from the 'grooming room!'

But, after nearly two hours of waiting patiently for him, alas when we saw Gary with his 'new look' I was stunned and felt truly sorry and guilty to him. Instead of looking well groomed and beautiful, he looked like a sick feline. Instead of trimming his fur like the usual practice when we sent him for grooming, the groomer shaved his fur! All his gray fur vanished and he was left with the coarse whitefish fur only. His long fluffy tail was no longer there. Instead it was 'replaced' with long and thin tail with shortened fur and just at the tip still shaggy! And, of course when he saw me he gave me the 'angry look' which was shown all over his face! 

Worst still when I arrived at our home and heard the shocked and surprised remarked from Mrs P who took care of Gary's foods and Daily Care. When she saw Gary's new look, she said to me at point blank, "Madam, he looks like a monkey" which automatically made my heart sank for my poor 'sonny' ... Indeed, my 'stupid' mistake made Gary feeling miserable and didn't like his new look at all. That made me feel more uncomfortable and sad each time I set my eyes on him. He was also reluctant to be held by me which was not his usual self! 

Oh! Gary is feeling the agony over my mistake. But when I held him and stroked his fur gently, I also consoled and promised him that I would not repeat that silly and stupid mistake again. To my Gary, please forgive Mommy. Insyallah as said by Mr Right and others who had seen his new look which he truly annoyed and detested, "Gary's fur will grow like before. Perhaps more hairy and fluffy!" Indeed, I would like to believe them and pray hard that his hairy grayish fur will grow as they signaled to me. But, some said that I have to wait a month or so. Others said, to get his full self again, perhaps two months!!! OMG ....

Gary: Mommy, I don't like this new look!!! Please, don't take any picture of me :(((

Gary: I love my old look and especially when Dad holds me like this .... :)))

Oman @A'Glance

We have been staying in this blessed land for more than two years. For us who have less expectation, our stay so far have been blissful with tons of cherished moments well spent with each other as love birds, with loved ones during their vacations and with the ever caring friends both the locals and residents from all walks of life. Indeed, spectacular Oman has been our wonder home far away from home which I'm truly thankful. 

Just like last night, Muscat was blessed with gifts from the sky - the heavy rain! It made me feel like I was at home with sparkles of colourful lightnings and the thunderous roar all over the dark sky. Although it was scary since Mr Right and I were on the slippery road  where visibility was at its lowest but the sight of the 'colourful night' was truly rare! Who would believe that we experienced heavy rain in the land surrounded by vast deserts where most of time the weather is scorchingly hot!

Yes! this country has lots to offer to its nationals and people like me and to this day, I'm still craving and hoping to see more and have more of it. Just a simple brisk walk on the well maintained pavement overlooking   the Gulf of Oman along the stretch of silvery QBeach was already blissful! What more if we  were to continue walking towards the hill that located Crown Plaza in QHeights that would be awesome and full of picturesque sights beyond expression. And no wonder, this area has never been empty or shy of people especially during  this time of the year - November to March aka the winter season where the scene and mood are liken to festival time :)

Since the weather is just like Spring season so the flowers too are blooming beautifully and creating multicolored spectacular view to all onlookers. In most gardens lovely well trimmed carpeted grass were flocked by families with happy faced children playing, running and jumping while enjoying the cool weather which made me green with envy! Oh! How I wish the 'grown kiddos' are here :( Well, I still have to wait another month before their arrival which sound more like another year! :)

If one were to take a ride to Nizwa, about  two hours drive towards south from Muscat, he or she will encounter another fascinating sight and experience Oman @A'Glance. Along the well paved road and smooth drive expressway, there are small towns like Fanja and Izki that one could stop for a cup of tea at the tea shops before contine the journey to the old capital city which is unique and full of exciting adventures. From Nizwa, one could climb up the green mountains of Jebel Akhdar or branch out towards the canyon of Jebel Sham where the temperature drops till minus 5 degrees during cold season!

Another exciting event that covers Oman @A'Glance is if we drive towards the Mutrah corniche area for less than half a day trip. Apart from being captivated by the beautiful port and the surrounding waterfront, one could get herself 'lost' in the busy yet mesmerizing Souq of Old Oman. The ambiance coupled with the scented frankincence fragrance truly 'transported' oneself as if we are in the Sindbad era or the historical time of 1001 night! 

In the souq all sellers are busy luring in customers to their stalls  be it antiques, silverware, homemade crafts and unique Omani attires and headgears. At the same time, the customers too are 'drown with confusion' because they are spoilt for choices! Too many choices that they had difficulty to choose! But, in most cases no one will leave the Souq empty handed. At the very least, they would bring home some sovenirs as momentous items such as frankincense, kanjar, dish dasha, mussar hat or for the ladies silver handicrafts or jewellery. But some may prefer gold from the Gold Souq!

Notwithstanding all the outside activities, here inside our own home-sweet-home we also have our share of joy and happiness through our feline Gary. He is now closed to a year and a half since we brought him home from the pet shop in Sabco. We never failed to pour our love to this cutie furry hairy. Indeed, he brings joy and happiness to our home! He loves and appreciates Oman @A'Glance through the BeeMer's window :D

During weekends, we took him for night sight seeing for the lovely street lights along the Muscat-Nizwa Expressway. Other times he loves to follow us for some 'moonlighting' moments around the Azaiba coastline and along the Seeb Beach. There we witnessed many fishermen with their late evening catch. Gary excitedly would elongate his neck at the car window to catch the glimpse of the busy 'night fish market' along the beach but most of all he just loves the rows and rows of beautiful street lights!

In a sentence > life in Oman has been blissful and our gratitude to Allah SWT for the opportunity given to us. Amin.

Omani folk dance ...

Blissful Drops!

It's mid-November and the weather in Muscat is getting cooler after months of scorching summer! I truly look forward to savor  this time of the year till end March. It is also called 'winter season' which is very popular for BBQ activities either at the silvery sandy beaches along the coast or up on the rugged mountains. 

To start enjoying the cool season, this evening we decided to join some of our countrymen for BBQ get-together and family fun times @Seeb Beach which was half an hour drive from home-sweet-home. I was excited and can't wait for Asar to come @3pm because the BBQ event will only start after the prayer where all the families will gather at the beach! Mr Right had prepared the evergreen beach mat, two beach chairs and a big blue umbrella especially for me to shun away from the sun. He also made sure that I also had my big pinky hat with huge sunglasses and reminded me to tag my blue shawl for the night wrap!

We also did our part to share with our friends by preparing some foodies. Mr Right and I went to Matrah Market and we bought some fresh fishes including sole and others. Once cleaned he marinated the fish with salt, turmeric and ginger and neatly placed them in a cooler. Wallah! They're all ready to be BBQ'ed!!! I also prepared some sambal kicap as dip for the  fish and a tupperware of nasi goreng kampung and fried frankfurters for dinner to be shared with friends under the bright moonlight with cool breezy wind from the sea! We planned to stay warm and happily chatting with fellow countrymen and their family members around the bonfire until midnight. 

However, as human beings we can only plan, but Allah SWT has the Final Say! On this there is a saying in my language with little amendments in italic "Ku sangka panas sampai ke Tengah Malam, rupanya hujan di Dinihari" :D We did not expect any rain because we are in the dessert! -(@^@)-

Indeed, it happened - it started with Blissful Drops just after we had Maghrib prayer together @5.30pm and was followed by our BBQ foodies! Night just begun and I was enjoying some grilled prawns and sweet corn with my friends. The others were still barbecuing the beef, lamb, kebabs, burgers and many more. Some families were still eating beside the bonfire. The children were seen happily playing with the sand to make sand castles where I managed to snap their cheerful moments with my mobile. 

Then I noticed that the Blissful drops did not stop! It kept pouring. But before the small to medium drops turned to heavy rain fall, Mr Right started packing all our things and 'shooed' me to start running towards our car. The situation on the beach was liken to 'raining cats and dogs!' In my case, the scenario was as Kay wrote in the FB comments: "Best Giler. Lama tak mandi hujan ... Paling best sebab lari-lari dengan D & D sampai basah kuyup ..." By the time we reached our car, we were all blissfully wet!!! 

Rare View: Heavy Rain in Seeb captured by me the minute I was inside our faithful BeeMer. It was an exceptionally a rare view in Oman. I felt like I was transported to my tropical home country where rain and flash flood was the norm. I was soaked with water and heavily panting due to running from the BBQ site to the roadside where we parked our car! Hu Hu Hu but feeling blessed with Allah gift from the sky :))

'Asyura' 4TenthMuharram

It is just a cultural tradition in my family dinner @Happy Village and not on religious grounds whatsoever to have Bubur Lambuk or sometimes called as Asyura on 10th Muharram as part of our Iftar breakfast cuisines. 

Here, in a land surrounded by beautiful mosques and lovely voices of muezzins's call for prayers brings nostalgic feelings to me for they remind me of my late Abah who was once an Imam in my evergreen and peaceful hometown. The mosque was just adjacent to our home-sweet-home which made it plain sailing for late Abah to go for his prayers with the other villagers even at old age. The garden surrounding the mosque also was once the playing ground for my friends and me each evening with our sepit udang game or ting ting before we called off the day to the chagrin of our Moms :)

Particularly during this time of the sacred day and month, when I was young before going to boarding school, my late GrandMa Nyai and ever caring Dear Mom will be busy preparing foodies for breaking fast! What I remembered and certainly liked most was that they also cooked the delicious savory dish Asyura and sent to the mosque for the people to savour after their Maghrib prayers. In fact, my late Grandma Nyai cooked  the Asyura Johore style which was a savory dish. The ingredients among others include rice porridge cooked with meat, chicken and ground nuts plus other spices and some coconut milk. Whereas in other parts of Malaysia, especially in the northern areas such as Kedah there is sweet Asyura mainly made of rice flour with corn, bananas, sweet potatoes and jaggery or gula Melaka. Instead of looking like porridge, the sweet asyura has 'bingka' look!

This evening to commemorate the sacred month, I prepared Asyura for Mr Right and me for dinner. It may not be the same as Grandma Nyai's or Mom's but, from the look and taste - it was quite closed to the original recipe. I would like to think so :-D but most importantly Mr Right liked it! He won't touch if the porridge is sweet but he'll surely finish a bowl full if the dish is savory! And more often than not, he will have a second helping. Definitely Mr Right isn't a sweet tooth person ...

Mr Right's favourite: My Asyura Johore style

An image of sweet Asyura - Bubur Asyura Manis (Utara) copyright of Sajian Hati balqis-resepiku.blogspot! TQ Blogger for the image :D

Email that brings me BigSmile!

"He He Hye Ma, I'm grateful also ... :)"

An e-mail which brings intoxicating Grin and Big Smile to my face while I'm still lazying on bed. A blissful morning of 10 Muharram 1435. TQ RDR!

It was a sweet surprise on an early morning when I opened my email today. Indeed, I did not expect any return answer when I wrote an email to my son with just a short sentence "Mama grateful to conceive and have you!" I sent the e-mail to him yesterday after reading the beautiful words in the FB Wall:

Taken from FB Wall. Acknowledgement and Credit to whoever wrote these words :)' 

Upon reading the status, it was encouraged to all readers to click 'share' to the others. I did not share it in my FB Wall although I am truly thankful and the credit goes to whoever wrote it? Instead, I sent the heart-2-heart words straight to my son RDR to show how grateful I am to have him! And who is my RDR?

RDR ...

He is my every thing!

My beautiful moon during darkness

My shining stars that lights the pavement 

A true sunlight that brightens my day

Colourful flower beds throughout my way

And the reason to live with beautiful stay!

RDR ...

My once 'Diplo-Tot'

Now grown up as young man

He who had followed me to many places

Desert to Desert via Snow and Woods

If only I could tag him that be good,

Alas, I can't for someone will 'shoot!' :D

RDR

At one time a 'Diplo-Kid'

Full of Oops Slips which I lost count

Never liked history or mugging subjects

With spiky hair and never dressed down 

Truly a class of his own with no bound

Turned out Bright and Creatively Sound!

I'm blessed with Alllah SWT special gift to me - a son! You make me a proud Mom :)

Indeed, the words in FB reflect some of the feelings written in my heart for you 'sonny' which sometimes wish to remain there sacredly! But now all have been revealed and I'm feeling awesome and exceptionally blissful. Amin.

A Nite of HeadGears!

It was a wonderful and colourful night! I truly enjoyed the reception @GrandHyatt - not only the bright and vibrant ambience with sumptuous international foodies, but most of all my eyes were captivated with the varieties of headgears worn by the people participating in the event and also the guests who attended the memorable reception!

Just glance at the pictures below:

A Magnificent HeadGear worn by a South African DS! It captures the sights of on lookers. A truly enchanting moment for me from an African beauty. 

I love the butterfly on the headscarf! A touch of elegance that enhances the already fascinating turquoise which further promotes charm or anggun to the wearer. A nice tip to all Ladies ...

Wow! Who could miss this 'Minangkabau' lass? Surely, I could not since the scarlet headgear caught and lured my eyes straight to the young woman more than the aroma of the enticing beef rendang from Sumatra. Sweet and exceptionally engrossing one's attention! Also reminds me of my MIL who is the descendants of Minangkabau clan •^•

A spectacular sight of golden head-dress fit for a bride! This reminds me of someone's voice - "Once a bride worn her bridal attire, it will be incomplete without the head accessory" said my late Nyai who had passed down her legacy to my Dear Mom. A truly cherished moment for every bride :D

My heartiest gratitude to the host and hostess HE Sukanto and Ibu NLS for the honour and invitation. Thus, giving me the opportunity to savour the fascinating moments that brought back mesmerizing memories of my late Nyai who was once a 'Mak Andam' and during her life time had showed and shared with me the importance of headgears to women. 

Yours truly with Host & Hostess, MDD and ZM at the Indonesia National Day Reception in Grand Hyatt Hotel, Muscat - 13.11.13!

Mrs P, my Heart goes to You :(

One morning I saw a petite and fair looking lady's eyes were scarletly swollen and welled with tears. I have known her for three months but I have not seen her so vulnerable as that memorable morning. I called her Mrs P. Other days, whenever I passed by her who was always watering the plants in her little garden, she's always waved, smiling and never showed any sign of unhappiness. So, that fateful morning I went to her and asked her what's wrong and if she needs any help or assistance from me?

She smiled a little and slowly said, "My Dad met with an accident!" Indeed, she called her daughter the day before as part of her weekly routine and was later informed of the mishap. But, she was very sad for not being able to look after her elderly father, especially in time of need after the demise of her mother ten years ago! Anyway, she said that she felt a little better since she had sent some money to her second daughter last week from her salary as part of the monthly allowance and already told her daughter to take her grandfather to the hospital for some check ups, which was truly awesome on her part! Although I barely know her and her background but I noticed that she is a pious person who never fails to pray for her family.

Mrs P has been in this country for more than three years. She was in another Middle East nation for six years before she came here. That was a pretty long period isn't it to be away from home and did not see her three children who now aged 22, 21 and 17 and her only father for the past nine years! She left her country and landed a job in these lands of opportunities after the demise of her mother who was her staunch supporter and liken to a sturdy pole for her to hang on.

It all begun when her dear father visited her one day during monsoon season. Her father had witnessed her bruised body, tormented daily life and shabby home situation which all along she had difficulty but managed to hide from him. Her sad father was heart broken to see his lovely daughter who was badly treated by her abusive husband. Finally, her father had the courage and said to her, "P, either you go far away from here, or you'll die here!" 

After much thought and coupled with her father's persuasion, encouragement and blessings Mrs P chose the former and left her family. In between sobs, she revealed that she was living with a jobless, abusive and alcoholic husband who was matched make to her by both her parents and in-laws. There was no love at first sight relationship but she was content with her fate and marriage life. Then, she found solace and little happiness with her children in her small farm and selling vegetables to make ends meet! But, that feelings did not last long with the constant and repeated abuse!

She still vividly remembered her youngest daughter now aged seventeen clinging and suckling to her motherly breasts for milk. And she has not seen her and what more to hug and chat with her as a normal mother-daughter bonding for the past nine years. Meaning, when she left her home country, her daughter was only an eight year old girl! Oh ... Hearing her story and the feelings of how much she had missed her children made my heart choked and tears welled in the eyes. My little heart shrinks and goes to Mrs P!

Since she had the opportunity to work abroad, she was able to send some money home for her children to go to school. Her eldest son has started working while her second girl just finished her college studies and now is seeking for jobs which is scarce and difficult to come by in her native place which according to her is quite an over populated country. 

Her youngest daughter is still in high school and Mrs P hopes that she could enter college and to further her studies and then earn a reputable university degree. Indeed, she has high hopes for her youngest daughter who she believes so far was quite promising in her studies and it's time for her to make a change! She prays that this daughter will get a good job. In whatever way she is determined to assist her daughter to make a change for her and her familiy because that change is a ticket for the new era in her entire family circle. I looked at her and nodded. Very quietly deep in my heart I pray for Mrs  P's hope to materialize ... May all her wishes come true!

This image is copy right of media.photobucket.com which truly captivating and captures my sights and souls. It fits well with the story of Mrs P who actually "a friend who reaches for my hands, instead has touched my heart!"