365 of Liza's Life

Liza Reads Poetry Too - Ke Makam Bonda

2012-02-14T07:45:00.001+08:00

I had a very good meeting yesterday about a project that we plan to kick off and Alhamdulilah, proposal got approved. However, the highlight of the day was when I visited one of the prominent figure in Putrajaya and saw in his room a malay poetry which has always been my favourite when I was schooling.

I started reciting this poetry when I was 9. It was introduced by my Arwah Wan. I remembered entering a school poetry competition reciting this and I got second place. My only regret, I have not been reciting this poetry for a long time that I forgotten most of the verses of this poetry.

The poetry is called Ke Makam Bonda by Usman Awang. Even looking at the verses give me goosebumps.

Ke Makam Bonda

Kami mengunjungi pusara bonda

Sunyi pagi disinari suria

Wangi berseri puspa kemboja

Menyambut kami mewakili bonda

Tegak kami di makam sepi

Lalang-lalang tinggi berdiri

Dua nisan terkapar mati

Hanya papan dimakan bumi

Dalam kenangan kami melihat

Mesra kasih bonda menatap

Sedang lena dalam rahap

Dua tangan kaku berdakap

Bibir bonda bersih lesu

Pernah dulu mengucupi dahiku

Kini kurasakan kasihnya lagi

Meski jauh dibatasi bumi

Nisan batu kami tegakkan

Tiada lagi lalang memanjang

Ada doa kami pohonkan

Air mawar kami siramkan

Senyum kemboja mengantar kami

Meninggalkan makam sepi sendiri

Damailah bonda dalam pengabadian

Insan kerdil mengadap Tuhan

Begitu bakti kami berikan

Tiada sama bonda melahirkan

Kasih bonda tiada sempadan

Kemuncak murni kemuliaan insan

~Usman Awang

Have an awesome week ahead peeps!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

#3 Edition Let The Change Begin With Us! ~ There are other soups, not only shark fins!

2012-02-10T08:08:00.000+08:00

Ilham, my son, has always have this ambition to be a scientist. Even when he was much younger, he can talk about science for hours without even bothered whether people understood him or not. And one of the areas in science he loves to talk about would be animals.

Ilham has warned me, don't consume shark fins soup no matter how tasty it may be. He said, it's not like we can die if we don't eat it, there are other soups. At the extreme, he also will not go to restaurants that serve such dish. At first, I don't get him. I thought it's just a soup from a fish, just like any other fish soups we have enjoyed before. As always, I am so ignorant.

Ilham shared a youtube link and I was so depress after that. How I can be part of this kind of animal cruelty. How can I allow sharks to be killed in such awful manner just for me to enjoy a bowl of soup. Then, I realised where Ilham is coming from.

However, last Wednesday, I was again part of the guilty bandwagon. I had a bowl of shark fin soup. As much as I wanted to defend myself by saying I was not aware it was shark fin as I assumed big prestigious restaurants don't serve shark fin soups anymore, I should have been more careful. I was sad and flashes of the youtube video images started to flash on my mind. And if Ilham knows this, he must be very disappointed in me.....

Well, friends, stop this madness. Don't consume shark fin soup. Stop ordering them! No demand, no supply. No matter how good it taste and no matter what kind of benefits it may have to our health, there are other choices of equally good soups. Look at the youtube video and ask yourself...would you want to be part of this gruesome killing!

Let's not forget the 1st and 2nd edition of Let The Change Begin With Us! We can do this together!

Have an awesome weekend, which of course not by having shark fin soups!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

The woman who made me who I am now

2012-02-07T21:35:00.001+08:00

Off late, I have been thinking about my Arwah Wan. For those who knows me well enough, would know my Arwah Wan was the woman who raised me from I was 2 months old until I was 7, the time I went back and live with my parents. However, I was close to Arwah Wan till the day she passed away.

Arwah Wan taught me so many things in life. She taught me good values, how to live my life, how to make the most of whatever we have and the best thing is she taught me how to dream the impossible, visualise it and work hard to achieve it. She discourag the word try, she said try is not good enough, we must do!

Some of the things I live for till now

Of time management and being punctual

similarity is the 24 hours a day we get. We should know our life more than others hence we manage our life better, not asking others to manage it for us. She said, she has 8 kids, with no help in raising them. She can't change the fact she has 8 kids, and she can't change the fact she only has 24 hours a day, so it's up to her how she wants to manage her life.

For those who have either work with me or involved in any of my activities would know I am a punctual person. No, I am not trying to brag, this is just me. And I have my Arwah Wan to thank for this good discipine. I am hardly late for work, I think for the last nearly 15 years of working, I have been late less than 10 times. Again, that's just me.

My Arwah Wan taught me, there will only be 24 hours a day for everyone. No one will get even an extra second no matter who you are. You can be from royal family or even a beggar, one area of

Her best advise ; the best indicator whether an individual is a good leader is how s/he manages her time, and count how many times s/he failed to be where they are supposed to be on time. She couldn't me more right. To her, if you can't take charge of your own life, don't even dream about leading others effectively

Of making time for Allah

Again with time management. Arwah Wan is very particular about solat. To her, if we can't spend time to do our prayers after all the blessings we received from our Creator, we are not a leader. Muslim are required to pray 5 times a day, on average every prayer is less than 10 minutes. Hence, we only need to spend 50 minutes to pray. Out of 24 hours a day God gives us the chance to breathe, we only need to allocate about 3 percent of total hours to thank Him.

Solat is fundamental. Solat is the pillar. Yes, I am guilty sometimes for either not praying on time or at times missing it all together. I wish Arwah Wan is still here to nag and remind me.....

Of having a dream

Arwah Wan's mentality is different from people in her generation. She believed in giving her kids the best education. I know all of my mom's sibblings received their education from English school. She is willing to spend and sell whatever she has to give her kids the best education. And she wants her kids have more choices on how they want to live their life.

I remembered when I was 16, some relatives came to see her with a marriage proposal, my marriage proposal. She went nuts and nearly chased this people out. She kept on chanting "Dia nak belajar, dia budak pandai" and she believes one day, I will be a somebody, somebody respectable holding high position.

She taught me how I must dream. Then only I have a vision of the things I want to achieve. I remembered when I was younger, I wanted to be a journalist. She bought me tonnes of journalism books to support my dream. Her eldest daughter aka my Mak Long was a famous female journalist and since the day I was born, my Arwah Wan told me, she can see my Arwah Mak Long in my eyes......

Of family first and choosing the right friends

Arwah Wan believes family comes after Allah and Islam. Family is the foundation of everything. Family will either make or break you. Family is your strength when the whole world turn their back on you. She couldn't be more right. And she told me, to becareful with people who I choose as friends. She said, that is my weakness, that I am too trusting. I don't know how she knows all this, cause this is the problems I faced time and time again. She told me I am a giver and I may get hurt with people who don't know how to appreciate me, and worse, by people who betray my trust. It's like she can see the future.

Yes, I miss my Arwah Wan so much. She was my best friend when she was alive. I told her everything about my life, and I shared my dreams with her. Never once she judged me. She loves me unconditionally. And I remembered everytime I got into argument with my parents, I just need to give her a call and she will rushed to see me. She often told my Dad, "Kalau kau tak nak bela, bagi dia kat aku, aku boleh bela"

Arwah Wan passed away more than 10 years ago. I was honoured to be able to take care of her when she was sick until the day she breathe her last breath. However, that is nothing compared to what she has done for me. She shaped my values, she made me the person I am today.

I miss Wan......I wish she is here with me......

Thank you Wan. Thank you for everything......

Al-Fatihah...

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

#2 Edition Let The Change Begin With Us! ~ Step Away From The Machine!

2012-02-01T08:05:00.001+08:00

One of my friends was telling how lucky kids nowadays are. They have lots of gadgets they can play with. They have computers, ipads,ipods, wii, xbox and many many more. But when I responded I think I am luckier than my kids, he was puzzled. To me, I grew up playing lots of outdoor games like konda kondi, rounders, galah panjang, guli and many many more. I swam in parit (which was way cleaner with cleaner water during my childhood) and able to run freely without having to fear for my security. Dulu takut hantu, sekarang orang lagi menakutkan. And now, I get to enjoy what my kids are enjoying. I got to experience the best of both worlds while my kids are deprived from the stuff In enjoyed in my earlier stage in life.

Yes, we are ruled by machines. It can be big machines like laptop or smaller ones, like the tabs and the ipads. We grieved when there's no internet connection. The need to stay connected is so strong than we feel like dying if we don't. We have people we care about in front of us and yet all are hooked up with own machines. People come over for a serious meeting yet we just can't stop checking our berry or iphone as if like we are waiting for the news that we can't miss even for a single second.

This new habit I have started months ago, I don't bring my berry for meetings. Yes, I really don't. Meeting usually would last about 1 hour or so, I think whatever emails, bbm messages, or even people commenting on my FB status or tweeting me can wait for my response. And I am seriously thinking of getting a cheap phone and have a number which is only known by my family today in case of emergency. The rest I think can wait.

So peeps, let's make this change. Have more human face to face or voice to voice for that matter with the people around you. Leave the machines in your handbags, drawers or wherever you are comfortable with. Don't bring them for meetings. Trust me, your meeting will be more productive and the person you are having meeting with will appreciate it very much. I know I am annoyed when I am talking while the other party is busy checking their gadgets, I am sure people are annoyed when I do the same too. So, let's give them due respect. You can stay connected without having to physically disconnected with the person in front of you lah!

And don't forget this link, we can do this together!

Signingoff,

liza365.blogspot.com

#1 Master Class ~ Leadership

2012-01-30T08:37:00.001+08:00

Funny that the 1st topic in my Master programme is called Leadership. Why I think it's funny? Cause for the last 4 years I served my current paymaster, Leadership Development has been I've been doing. Develiping future leader from the middle management to prepare them to move the organisation structure. Hence, when I discovered this is my first topic, I was very much excited.

Few important key takeaways I learned from the 1st 2 lectures :

Success is not permanent
Success, if not manage well, may lead to failure i.e. success of failure
Good leaders would not only know who are our competitors today, but who are our competitors tomorrow
It's better for too small to be big rather than too big to be small :) *grin*
Good leaders would never want to stay in power for too long. Only idiots do that *bukan saya cakap, lecturer saya cakap yer*
Never gives power to people who can't live without it
Leadership has got nothing to do with position
Good leaders know they are only human hence they develop more leaders
If you can't say I am, no one will say you are
Saying things with convictions are very important
Believe in divine intervention even after much effort was put
If negotiation done too much, the next thing to do is walk away

Well, I am now convinced I need to do this and I need to do this well. Rather than aiming I can get through this 2.5 years and get my Master after that, I am aiming to be the best student in my class. Call me perasan or whatever, at least I dare to dream and I am willing to work hard to achieve my dream....

And don't forget this entry, we can make this change...

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza on the map ~ the overdue Penang trip

2012-01-29T22:35:00.001+08:00

I remembered when I was younger, someone asked me what do I want to be when I grow up. I was only 7 at that time, if I'm not mistaken. Innocently I responded, I want to be someone who can take my mom for a holiday and to buy her whatever she wants. She just need to choose and I will pay for it. She don't have to look at the price tag. Why? Cause my mom worked very hard and everytime she go and buy stuff for herself, she will look at the price tag and usually she ended up putting it back because we can't afford it.

Hence, this year when I got to take her for a holiday, although only in Penang, I was very happy.

When you go to Penang, the usual thing you will look for is FOOD! FOOD! FOOD! Penang is a food heaven. So, forgive me if this entry is populated by food images.

I booked the flight and hotel via Air Asia package combining hotel and flight. The chosen hotel was Hard Rock. The price for 9 of us was SUPER CHEAP. Will share the price later.

Must eat

This one can go on and on and on.

Of course, Nasi Kandar is a must and my favourite has always been Line Clear. Tried few other outlets before, I still come back to Line Clear. Alhamdulilah, my parents love it too.

Apart from that, Pasembur is also in the checklist. We had the one at Gurney Drive. We also had Sup Hameed. As the trip was too short to enjoy other famous Penang food like Laksa and Char Kuey Teow.

Must shop

Actually, Penang is not a place to shop. The only thing that can be bought would be jeruk from Chow Rasta. Other than that, takde kot

Must See

I had few things in the check lists but did not get to do it cause Mom was too tired. One of it is the Pasar Malam Batu Feringghi. Apart from that is the Toy Museum. Since this trip was made for my mom, we are quite flexible about it. Apart from that since we are staying in Hard Rock, it's a must to enjoy the live band. Only my better half and I enjoyed this. My parents and kids were asleep by the time the show started.

Must Do

Must drive through Penang Bridge. Yes, that's a must and we managed to do that. We also took the ferry to cross the Selat Melaka. Apart from that we also went up the Penang Hill via the new cable car. It was quite a fast ride up and the view from the top was just awesome. We also took the kids for a boat ride along the Penang coastal area. My mom did not want to join us, takut ler teeewwww :)

In total, the expenditure for the whole trip

Air Asia 3 days 2 nights package - Flight and Hotel - RM3256.62

(Hard Rock 3 rooms all together for 7)

Car rental (2 days) RM350.00

Food and sightseeing RM556.00

Parking in LCCT RM75.00

Total RM4237.62

Bebaloikan? So apa tunggu lagik....pilah melancong!!!

And don't forget this entry. Yes, we can make this change!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

#1 Edition Let The Change Begin With Us! ~ Pick Up Those Rubbish!

2012-01-27T08:04:00.000+08:00

My family and I had an awesome time in Sabah, namely KK. We went for island hopping as well as enjoying the cool climate at the foot hill of Kinabalu. Sabah is so beautiful, in fact much more beautiful than many places abroad. Will blog about this soon.

That's when reality hits me, the fact that idiots till throw rubbish to the sea. Yes, they are all selfish idiots who enjoyed the view just for themselves and don't consider future visitors would want to enjoy the same view. They are idiots for trying to jeopardise the source of income for people in Sabah. They survive on this view and by the sources from the sea you morons! *emo*

Triggering from this experience, rather than bitch about it, I want to make a difference. I know I am not a famous bloggers who have thousands or even hundreds of followers. Not many people read my blog. But, it has to start some where.

Come and join me to see our countries clean. As we walk along the path way or roads, let us pick up the rubbish we see. Yes, it's not us who throw it but imagine if we continue to be ignorant, it will soon effect us. Do you want to live in a condition where you see rubbish everywhere. Educate people around us to do the same. Our kids, our family, our friends. One person can't make a difference but us combined, this may work.

Share this with people around you. Yes, you may think I am crazy but I believe there are alot of people who cares about this like I do! Yes, I seriously do!

On a lighter note, have an awesome weekend everyone. Remember, pick the rubbish, don't throw them anywhere but the rubbish bins!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza goes to movie ~ Ombak Rindu The Review

2012-01-19T07:50:00.000+08:00

Yes, I know. Many would say "Baru nak tgk ke" or even, "Too latelah to give review"

Well, I don't get to go to cinema that much nowadays, infact, the last movie I saw in cinema was Cars2 like months a go. And yes, despite this movie has been shown in Astro First for quite sometime, I only saw it 2 days ago. Why? Of course time constraint and given the level of emotional intensity based on those who have reviewed the movie, I thought I must wait until the right time and moment to watch this. And that right time and moment was 2 days ago.

What I think about it?

Let's see from various perspective

Casting

To be really honest, I don't really like the actors/actresses lined up for this movie. Having Maya Karin plays a gadis kg is something I have difficulty to sink in my head. Not only because of her pan asian look, also her malay accent which made me struggle to see the kekampungan in this. IMHO, perhaps this can be played by the likes of Nabila. As for Aaron Aziz, still acceptable lah *drooling*. I love Bront Palarae's acting, just that his role was not properly expanded in this movie. And another wish list would be for the Dato' role to be played by other actress, certainly not Azizah Mahzan. I think she over did it. I would prefer to have this role played by Liza Abdullah, she was awesome in Tentang Dhia. Lisa Surihani was oklah, this was one of her better acting, not that she has many.

Storyline

To be frank, I was quite disappointed with the flow. I read the book and somehow, the book touched my heart, unlike the movie. I was trying to find a scene which can really shed tears in my eyes and the closest I can think of was when Hariz when for a kenduri at Zaidi Omar's house and he hugging Izzah, telling her how much he misses her. Yes, that's the closest but still no tears. I was trying to dive into the sensitive emo part of me and still could not find one. Until the end of the movie, mata sekering-keringnya

Soundtrack

What soundtrack? There was only one song played from beginning till the end. My boss said watching this movie is like watching a long video clip. Takde lagu lain ker

I can't comment about editing, cinematography and all that techie aspects. Not my area lah, and won't pretend to know all that.

Final verdict? Quite a disappointment. Was expecting something impactful, something which can cause me to at least shed a tear or two, but I can't find the spot for that in this movie.

What I love the most about this movie? The design of Hariz's house ; both the one with Maya Karin in it as well as the one he stays with his mom. Cantik! I want a house with that design too!!

Thought of watching Songlap tonight. Look out for the review, Insyallah.....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

What have I got myself into!!!

2012-01-15T21:33:00.000+08:00

Today I started yet another new journey in my life. Actually, I have passed my personal KPI. I was supposed to get my MBA before I reached 35, and this year, I am about to be 36, and just started my first day of my MBA journey today. Well, at the back of my mind, better late than never.

Actually, even applying for the programme was just for the fun of it. I applied to one of the toughest business school in the world, I somehow am confident there's no way I'll get accepted. So, I went ahead to submit my application. Even troubled 2 of my previous supervisors to enter the university website as my referrals. I do hope they wrote something nice about me :)

Nearly a month letter, I got a letter mentioning I was accepted. I was totally not ready for this. I was preparing myself for rejection. No way I can ever I get accepted. I am not that smart - I kept telling myself that. I kept on reading that letter over and over again...Why was I accepted, is it because of the essei I submitted, or my supervisors wrote something super nice about. Well, Alhamdulilah, I got accepted.

So, today the journey began. And today was more into the introduction and the expectations from the course. If their objective was to scare the shit out of me, they did an awesome job in doing so. If you cut my face with a knife during the intro, no blood would come out. That's how pale I was. The only missing element, I managed to not pee in my pants.

And the fact that I am the only female in my class is just not helping.....

What did I do right after the induction completed?

Went to Nirwana for banana leaf extravaganza
Arrived home and did my laundry
Folded all the clothes
Baked bread
Blog

And now, I am finally hitting the books. One chapter to be read for lecture tomorrow. I was told, the lecturer tomorrow is a fierce one and I might get thrown out of class if I come unprepared.

Wish me luck. I need loads and loads of it!!!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

It's ok to be anonymous

2012-01-11T07:50:00.000+08:00

This past few months, a lot of aging signs and factors has gotten into. Safe to say I am more mellow, I don't get upset easily and I can take time to smell the roses no matter how hectic life is. I believe that's a good sign and the result will soon be made visible by the reduction on the number of wrinkles and fine lines on my face. Well, I wanted to so bad for the changes to be significantly visible on my physical appearance i.e. a slimmer me but, you can't win everything right?

I remembered how I use to be so concern about recognition. About people knowing what I do, and the contribution I have done. I can still recall when I was asked to help in co-leading the team for a project showcasing the kind of work our team do, more like awareness. I was working so hard in doing up the concept and making sure everything is in place. Yes, we won 1st prize but my name was never mentioned as one of the contributors. Not even a single thank you. And yes, back then, I was upset and to certain extend "berjauh hati"

However, a lot of things happening in my life since then which made me do a lot of reflection. A lot of muhasabah diri and slowly absorbing the concept of rezeki. Rezeki will be ours if it has been written it's ours and there's not way we can take away rezeki of others, no matter how hard we try, if it's written it belong to others. You may say you work so freaking hard, harder than the rest however, when it comes to reward, you are not even at par with others. Some may say, the bosses are bias, some may say this is injustice. I might join the group preaching the same thing. However, now I totally embraced the rezeki concept.

Last week, the place where I work had this gift exchange party inconjuction with Christmas *don't judge please as I know I am a Muslim and I practice Islamic teachings and I observe the Rukun Iman and Rukun Islam religious, I don't think by exchanging gifts will caused me to leave my religion, missing my prayers or even forgetting Allah for even one second*. The gift is given anonymously. I did just that and I was more interested to see the reaction on the receiver's face upon getting the gift and Alhamdulilah, it was a happy reaction. And that is enough to me. Being anonymous is not so bad after all. Till this day, my identity is still a secret :)

It's ok to so something without telling the whole world you were the one doing it. It's ok not getting credit no matter how you think you deserve it. It's ok for others to get what you think it's yours...Yes, I am totally cool with that. Cause I know, the blessings I received which I want to think due to the good deeds I may have done in the past are too many to count. The happy life, the supportive family, loving what I do and most important thing, what I do will eventually make a difference, Insyallah. The people benefiting from what I do now may not know I some what contributed to it, it's ok. I totally believe the reward will come in other ways, not necessarily a promotion, huge salary increase or fat bonus....For all I know the reward may be harvested by my kids, who means the world to me....

Though I secretly wish...can the reward comes in a form of loosing at least 10kg this year *pretty please*

Hahahaha!!! Have a good and awesome day peeps!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza Can Cook - Dhal Curry Recipe

2012-01-10T08:27:00.001+08:00

I am married to a man from Banjar clan. This is a clan originated from Indonesia. That is why, despite being a Johorean, the culture and norms that are practised day to day are some what different from the normal Johorean.

In MBH's kampung, I can safely say almost everyone is related to each other either by birth or by marriage. MBH is the only who got married to someone out of Johor hence I need to learn and try to adapt to his culture. One of the things which his family loves doing is kenduri i.e. to feast the kampung with delicious food.

Last weekend, another kenduri was held. And this time, the chosen dishes were one of Banjar speciality i.e Nasi Gaul. This is some sort like Nasi Minyak served with either boiled beef or chicken with salad and coconut milk with Dhal Curry as the gravy. And that was my assignment, to cook Dhal Curry for about 300 people. Not just normal people, but people in his kampung aka his relatives aka S.T.R.E.S.S!!!

Let's see how to cook it

Ingredients

*Shallots

*Onions

*Garlic

*Ginger

* to be blended

**Shallots

**Garlic

** cut into thin slices

Rempah tumis (spices)

Curry Powder

Potatoes (cut into 4)

Dhal (boiled until soft)

Coconut Milk

Chicken (cut into small parts)

Brinjal

Tomatoes

Red Chillies

First, heat the pot and once it's hot add the cooking oil. Once the oil is hot enough, fry the items ** with the rempah tumis until this turn golden brown with awesome aroma.

The add items * and fry until the aroma of the ginger comes out

Next, add the curry powder which has been pre-mixed with water. Not to thin, not to thick. At this stage, you need to stir quite frequently to ensure it will not be "hangit" and stick to the pot. Fry until it is cooked. If the curry powder is not cooked properly, this may caused people to get stomach ache.

Add potatoes and chicken. Add some water as well and wait until it boils.

Once the potatoes are half cooked, add the dhal into the mixture. Again, don't forget to stir.

Add the santan and some water so that it will not be too thick
Once the potatoes and chicken are 3/4 cooked, add the brinjals
Add salt and seasoning
If you see the curry starts to boil then it's time to add the tomatoes and red chillies.

There you go, the curry is ready. I was so nervous when this was served. Gila kau, satu kampung nak makan! Harus dikata orang menantu Haji Hamzah tak pandai masak!

Alhamdulilah, it turned out well.

I enjoy cooking, perhaps this passion can be turned into something profitable one day, Insyallah.

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza on the map ~ the overdue Terengganu trip

2012-01-09T07:53:00.000+08:00

We wanted to start this new tradition. Tradition of bringing our parents for a holiday. At first, we wanted to have one trip combining both my parents and in-laws. Then we thought we need to understand the traveling patterns of our parents to ensure compatibility. Yes, I am that detail when it comes to traveling.

So, we started of by taking my in-laws to Terengganu. Lucky us, MAS was having massive sale, we get to purchase the tickets at a super cheap price. All bookings done and I have prepared itinerary for the 3 days 2 nights trip which suit my in-laws. Not too heavy, and not too much walking.

We covered many places in Kuala Terengganu. We went to Taman Warisan where we got to see the replicas of famous mosques in the world. When Abah and Mak saw Masjidil Haram and Masjid Annabawi, they become quite sad and missing the time they saw this mosques when they perform their haj. This Taman is really wide. You can choose to walk, or rent a bike. We opted for buggy rental instead with private tour. Apart from that we also visited a place where boats (big ones) are made.

Some info for those who wish to plan a trip to Kuala Terengganu

Must eat

All type of Terengaanu dishes like Nasi Minyak, Nasi Dagang, Ikan Celup Tepung and of course Keropok Lekor
It's better if you get opinions from friends who are familiar with KT. This is to ensure you get better deals with better tastes.
As much as you love to have breakfast in the hotel, consider having breakfast at stalls instead. Cause, breakfast in KT is usually when the best food is served

Must shop

What is a trip to Terengganu if you don't buy Terengganu batik. There's Pasar Payang for that. Make sure you bargain for the best deals.
Buying keropok is also a must. We tried out about 4 stalls, and all I can say it tasted some what the same. So, don't be too deceived when people recommend you to buy at certain outlets

Must see

Taman Warisan is a total must.
Near Taman Warisan, there's cruise ride. If you are lucky like us, you get good boat guide who told us the history of Kuala Terennganu and its landmarks

Some photos for you to enjoy.

Ultimately, the main goal of this trip was met. That is to make Abah and Mak happy...and that's what matter the most!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Crowd pleaser ain't no more!

2012-01-06T08:07:00.000+08:00

*Caution ~ this will be an emo entry. Haters, please read at your own risks and if you decide to bitch about it later, all I can say is....Kubur lain2*

2011 was quite a rough year in the aspect of friendship. Actually, to phrase it better, it was difficult to know who are friends and who pretended to be. Years of friendship don't guarantee that person knows you. And how can you put that to a test? By seeing whether this so called friend fall for stories told by others about you. And even worse, whether this friend even attempt to verify the stories.

I am a loyal friend. Yes, I do. The moment you fall under my friends category, I will make every attempt to be there for you, and those who knows me would know this. If you are in my friends lists, I will stay true and your secrets will be safe with me. Talking about secrets, even after you left or I removed you from my friends definition, I will not blab about your secret. A secret is a secret, integrity is super important to me, and I will not stoop so low even the friendship has been broken.

I lost quite a number of friends in 2011 while I was going through tough times. Some decided to shy away and pretended they don't know me, some believed lies that was told about me and some are just gone for no reasons. My usual typical self would try to save the friendship however, somehow, in 2011 I learned to let go. And this is the dangerous part, the moment I let go, I will let go completely. I can still smile, say hi and bye, work or even eat on the same table, but deep down, I know you are no longer my friends. To me, you are just one of my acquaintance.

I have found my wholesome happiness in life. That is my family. They are here and have been here no matter how bad the situations are. I have also found real people whom I call friends. Real ones that is and I know for a fact, I am sticking to this lists. This lists will be dynamic, subject to expansion or even right sizing. I think I am wise enough now untuk membezakan kaca dan permata.

Yesterday, I decided not to meet someone. Not because of hatred, more because I am not ready. I know I will be overly emotional and the meeting will not turn out to be a pleasant one. Cause this was a true lesson for me "Just when you think you know someone, that someone left you in the dark all by yourself". I was in need of friends to pull me through the tough journey and yet many ditched me or even worse bitched about me. Some friends huh?

2012 is the year to take control. Friendship is a 2 way street. I put my trust in you and I expect you to do the same. When you think I am wrong, be honest about it. I am an adult, I can take honesty. I know only true friends will tell me when they think I am wrong. But for you not only attempting to get my explanation and even worse, pushed me away, says something about our "friendship".

2012 is gonna be a good year Insyallah. Push the negativity away. Be around positive people. I have made my choices and feel awesomely good about it!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza Can Bake ~ 1st attempt baking muffin

2012-01-05T07:53:00.021+08:00

One of my 2012 wish list is to bake as frequent as I can. I don't bake very well. In fact, several attempts made earlier turned out to be disaster. It can either be the cake did not rise or it tasted like feet!

For 2012, I want to take it slow. Do simple ones before exploring to do something more complicated. So, that's what I did last night, a ready mixed muffin just to give me some confidence.

It's simple, really. If an idiot like me can do it, anyone can do it!

Ingredients

Ready made muffin mixed flour

2 eggs

quarter cup of cooking oils

quarter cup of water

Step 1

Mixed all ingredients using mixer until all are mixed well (that's a lot of mix in one sentence)

Step 2

Put the mixed ingredients in the muffin cups, fill only 3/4 of the cup. I added some colourful sprinkles.

Step 3

Heat the oven for about 5 minutes before putting all the cups in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes in 190 degrees.

Oklah for 1st attempt. I am actually happy with the outcome. The tastes are good, but the look is not as good as the taste pulak. Takpe, next time will improve on this.

Total cost - about RM5

Total muffins made - 15! Good value right?

Come and try. It's a good feel good therapy :)

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza Got Taste ~ Holiday Villa Dim Sum Buffet

2012-01-04T09:19:00.000+08:00

I love eating, I think that's not a secret given how big I am. I love exploring new makan place however, I am not adventurous about food. I am willing to try things I am familiar with and things that look weird and funny, as well as don't smell so good, I will give it a pass.

For 2012, I thought of start reviewing the places I eat. Some pointers for those who wish to give it a try. But remember, people have different tastes, what tastes awesome to me, may taste like crap to you and vice versa

On New Year's Day, we tried out a new place for dim sum. Usually we frequent the one in Quality Hotel Jalan Raja Laut. But this time, we thought of trying the dim sum in Holiday Villa Subang Jaya. I called to make reservation, just to make sure we will not be disappointed.

The spread there were quite large. Lots of variety compared to the one in Quality Hotel. The way the buffet works, you don't have to go to the buffet table and get the dim sum. The buffet spread, all in a trolley are pushed to you and then you can make your choices. There are 2 types of selections ; the steam dim sum and the frien ones on 2 separate trolley. You will only need to get up for dessert.

Apart from that, there are also other selections you can order which is also part of the buffet. We had chee cheong fun,. porridge and cantonese kuey teow. All are really good.

Some tips if you want to try this place :

Must try the porridge. It's really good that I had 2 bowls of it. The portion is just nice for one person
Caution if you wish to order the fried dishes (quite a range of choices from noodles to rice). The portion is big, enough for about 3-4 pax considering you had dim sum earlier. Thank God we only ordered one, otherwise would be a challenge to finish.
Drinks are not part of the buffet. They will offer juices and chinese tea which will be charged separately. Of course, Chinese would go very well with the dim sum
2 choices of chee cheong fun available : chicken and prawn. Must order and it will be sent to your table
Washrooms are quite a walk from the dim sum place. Make sure you go with your kids if they need to go
Parking is RM5 per entry. However, please get your parking ticket validated before you leave the restaurant
Price is reasonable. RM39.99++ per pax. If you are a Villa Gold Card holder, you'll enjoy 20% discount (which I am)
Dim Sum Buffet hours for weekends and public holidays would be from 9am to 2.30pm.

Overall, the rating is 3.5/5. Satisfying and made us leave with a smile on our faces. Service was ok, just that one of the waiter don't understand English or Malay so he will need to call his other colleague everytime we ordered.

Give it a try and share with me what you think!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

The 2012 Outlook

2012-01-03T07:57:00.000+08:00

I love New Year. Simply because I love a new start. I love it when we can reflect and learn from our experience and start all over again. Improve what we can, carry on the good work we do and leave negativity behind. I guess this is another part of my aging process where I am able to tolerate more things. The last thing I want is to grow old and grumpy!

Anyhow, few things I look forward to for 2012

About family

School starts tomorrow. Difference this year would Ilham starting his secondary school adventure. And this year, no one would be sitting for major exams. So, many things can be executed this year :)
Few holidays planned for the family. Going to KK in 3 weeks time, during the CNY holiday. March as always would be the company's family day, provided I still get the invitation. May, crossing my fingers for the Europe tour with MBH to materialise. Would be away perhaps, for 3 weeks. September planned to take both parents and inlaws for a holiday in Kuching. And Insyallah, if finance is ok, planned to take the kids for year end vacation to Korea and Hong Kong. Loads of planning!!
No addition of family members planned this year. Mostly because I am starting my MBA classes in 2 weeks time and this will stretched for 2 and a half year. Moga dipermudahkan.....

About career

Few projects will be kicked off this year. From the look of it, it will definitely keep me occupied. For now, no travelling required which is something I am really glad! I plan to also launch a personal project. Look out at this space for mre info :)
My "loan" terms in this company has yet to be finalised hence I am not that sure the duration I will be here. For all you know, this year, I will need to return to mothership or perhaps not returning at all. I leave it to Allah as He knows best.
No plans to change career this year, not at least I complete my Masters

About friendship

To be more careful and selective in who I choose to be my close friends. Nevertheless, friendships are extended to all, just that to be sure who I share the details of my life with. Yup, lesson learned, and it was at times painful
To have more reconnection with old friends, be it from college, MRSM or ex-colleagues. Need to start having variety in life
To be more me and less what other people want me to be. If I want to be emotional in my FB or blog, so be it! Those who can't stand probably hate me either way so why bother! Being me is just awesome!!!

About new adventure/craze

To get a new laptop sometime this month. More for studies considering all my other gadgets at home have been hijacked by the not so little ones. Still doing comparison and so far in love with one particular machine
Planned to be part of at least 5 running events. Identified about 8 and the challenge is to match the schedule
To blog more and perhaps to do it more seriously. It wouldn't hurt to have extra income by the side kan?

Noticed no loose weight pledge made this year. Simply because, I need to have the internal drive to do it. The resolution is getting really lame and when it happens it will happens. No need to keep on harping about it when the weight remain stagnant (at least not increasing)

May 2012 be an awesome year for us all, Insyallah!!!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza can cook - Sup Tulang Recipe

2012-01-02T12:06:00.001+08:00

I have always wanted to share recipes in my blog. However, I was reluctant to do so cause I don't want people to think I am trying to show off as if I am the only one can cook. Yes, that was the old me. Not anymore, the new me don't really gives a damn what people think. Yes, I can cook. I may not be good at it, but I can cook good meals for my family.

So, here goes.

Today, I made Sup Tulang. This is one of the favourite dish for my family. Though I said I cooked this today for lunch but the process started last night. It is important to cook it for hours until the meat got separated from the bones.

Ingredients

2kg of bones preferably from the ribs ( this portion is enough to feed us, the family of 5 the whole day)

To grind ( I use lesung batu, not blender, just my preference I guess)

5 shallots

5 garlics

5cm of ginger

Potatoes

Half of quarter cup Tamarind juice

2 packets Sup Tulang Bunjut Adabi

How to do cook this

After washing the bones, boil it for about 15 minutes. Then throw the water and replace it with another pot of water. This time, boil it for at least 4 hours
Using another pan, after you heat the oil, first fry the rempah tumis which is part for the Sup Tulang Bunjut Adabi pack for about 15 seconds and then add together tje grinded ingredients.
Fry until the smell appear and the ingredients turn golden brown.
Once that is done, transfer the whole fried ingredients to the pot. Add potatoes and the tamarind juice
Boil for another 2 hours
Add salt. I don't add salt at the early stage as it may cause the meat to be hard and not tender

And the soup is ready to be served. Best served with hot white rice or bread. And if you have extra time, do the sambal kicap. That will make the soup more awesome!!!

Blum try belum tahu!!!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

2011 ~ Reflection

2012-01-01T23:08:00.000+08:00

I wanted to continue with Liza on the map edition, to blog about Terengganu trip, however, I think it's more apt for me to reflect on highlights of 2011 considering today is the first day of 2012.

2011 was indeed a colourful year. Full of all sorts of colours, dark, bright, pastel you name it. Some events were planned, many just happened. Some caused joy and laughter, few occassions set tears in my eyes. Nevertheless, all I have considered as good lessons to make me stronger.

Let's reflect one by one :

About family

Mira entered boarding school. On contrary from what people thought, we didn't force her to enter. She wanted to do so cause she wanted to get the experience. We did inform her once she made the decision, she must stick to it. First month was tough, not only for her, for us as well, particularly MBH. However, she gets better the longer she stayed there and now she is enjoying her stay there...
Ilham sat for UPSR and he got 4As 1B. We are super proud of him cause he improved alot from 3Cs 2Bs in May to 2As 3Bs in July and finally the result he got. He worked hard and we know he earned this grades.
Started new tradition taking our parents for holiday. Took my inlaws to Terengganu and later took my parents to Penang. Insyallah, if ada rezeki, planning something for 2012 as well
For the first time, our family vacation was some where further. We went to Australia and it was a blast. Will blog about it later Insyallah
My sister in law got married and I must I am very happy that she moved on with her life after the bitter experience from the 1st marriage. Alhamdulilah, she is happier now with her kids and her husband

About career

Quite a roller coaster journey. Transferred from my first team to another team in March. Again, while some people assumed I did not want to follow my team to join another entity due to some disagreement with my boss, it was actually more of commitment issues. New set up require alot of commitment which is something I don't think I can do given my role as a mom which is more important that anything else. Alhamdulilah, my boss understood and was ok to release me
Under this new team, I was chosen to represent my company to UK and US. It was indeed an honour as I got the chance to visits top universities in this 2 countries.
Some internal changes happened which caused me to be transferred back to my old team. I was reluctant at first, not because I don't like to be part of the team, it was more again, about commitments. Alhamdulilah, been in the team for nearly 4 months and I am happy with the roles I am playing now. Thanks to my current boss for the trust despite what people accused me as a ditcher :)

About friendship

Few friendships were tested and some had to end. In life, you loose some, you win some. I don't regret for loosing some, cause I am a firm believer of quality than quantity. Some unpleasant remarks were made especially on the things I published in my FB. Some bitched about me being an emotional person, some even removed me from their friends lists for unknown reason. But, it's ok. I'm good.
Met up with many old friends this year. Some from college, some from high school and some from where I used to work. Attended few reunions and this made me realise, I am a good person with pure intention. If people can't see that, perhaps they don't really know me

About new adventure/craze

I have this new thing I enjoy doing, that is taking part in running events. Took part in 2 events and planning to be part of more events in 2012 Insyaallah. Got myself an elliptical trainer to help me prepare for the races
I have also become a more techie person. Got myself an iPad, iPod, Amazon Kindle, Galaxy Tab and Wii. Never have I had so many gadgets in a year. I also bought MBH a Blackberry Bold 9900 with touch screen function for his birthday.

This is as far as my memory can recall. I totally look forward to 2012, many things planned hopefully materialised Insyallah....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza on the map ~ the overdue US working trip

2011-12-31T22:00:00.000+08:00

I never imagined myself given the opportunity to represent my company for overseas assignment, let alone to be given the chance to go around US for work. It was indeed a tiring trip touring from one state to another, having to take flight every other day, and deprived from real food. The schedule was very tight simply because I don't want to leave my family for too long.

The cities visited goes like this :

New York - Chicago - San Fransisco - Los Angeles - Chicago - Boston - New York

In this trip, I visited about 9 universities, attended 6 engagement sessions with Malaysians and 4 sessions with Malaysian scholars. I also met up with few old friends who have been residing in US for quite sometime. I must say this experience was really valuable. If given the chance to come again, I would want to go to San Fransisco and New York with my family. I love this 2 places and had an awesome time there. The fact that I have 10 years Visa will make this dream easier Insyallah. Talking about Visa, please apply way in advance. It can be a long unpleasant experience for some, Alhamdulilah, in my case, somehow di permudahkan. However, while I was at the US embassy I can hear some interviews which can be intimidating.

Some info based on my limited experience, given the fact that it was a working trip :

Must Go

Woodbury Premium Outlet, New York
Golden Gate Bridge, San Fransisco
Silicon Valley where Google, Yahoo, Youtube, LinkedIn and Facebook offices are
Times Square, New York
Kodak Center, LA

Must Do

Any live games, I got to go to baseball match
Ride of San Fransisco Cable Car or better known as tram
Broadway Theatre, something I wanted to do but did not have the time. Insyallah, next visit
Walk at Central Park, this was really an awesome experience
Try our the subway. Can be an interesting experience, smelly and scary as well :)

Must Eat (Can't really comment on this, did not get the opportunity to explore due to tight schedule, practically survived on hot chocolate and bread most of the time)

Halal Guys, New York. Awesome kebab and beriani
Seafood at Fisherman's Wharf, San Fransisco

Must shop

US branded stuff like Coach, Cole Hanns, Fossil - Super cheap!!
Electronic stuff. Got myself Garmin GPS and Kindle. Super cheap as well

Must see

Empire State building, New York
Rockefeller Center, New York
Statue of Liberty, New York
Hollywood Hill, Los Angeles

Enjoy this photos, managed to snap some in between meetings :)

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza on the map ~ the overdue Bandung trip

2011-12-30T23:36:00.000+08:00

My sincere forgiveness for abadoning this blog of mine for quite some time. Only today, I have the mood to update this blog. Yes, I update my blog when I want to. I don't want to force myself to do something I don't feel like doing. Have been doing that for the longest time in other areas of my life *kan dah emo lagik*. Will try to blog as frequent as I can starting with updating the places I got the chance to visit in 2011.

Anyway, 2011 has been a year where I get to visit many interesting places in the world. One of them was Bandung. Yes, Bandung may be a place where many people visits but not me. I have not been to Bandung, never in my life. I know many have told me it's a shopping heaven, but whether you want to believe it or not, I am not someone who enjoy shopping though I have an uncureable weakness for shoes and kids clothing!

The idea to go to Bandung was quite random. I realised MBH and I have never been on a holiday alone, yup, alone...just the 2 of us, without the kids. No, we did not go for any honeymoon ever since we got married. We couldn't afford it before, so when I saw this AirAsia promo to Bandung, I went ahead booked the tickets and send a calendar invite to MBH. As if he can say no to my request kan?

So, we went a day before our wedding anniversary and celebrated the anniversary there. We went to many interesting places. But, what I enjoyed the most was the food. Not only it's delicious, it was super cheap! Of course I enjoyed the shopping, the kids clothing there were super cheap!!! I bought like loads of it that MBH told me "Sayang, the kids will grow up eventually, I don't think they can wear this supply of clothing for years!"

And I went crazy at Pasar Bharu. I went there 4 times!! Yes, you heard me, 4 times. I wanted to go for the 5th time but MBH told me, "Sudahlah Sayang, orang lain pun nak beli jugak". I ended up buying 12 kain for myself. Of course, some for the kids and my mom and mom in law.

Enough talk about shopping, though MBH was convinced he has been conned to come to this holiday which has been camouflaged like a honeymoon when the real agenda was to accommodate my shopping needs *mana ada bang*

Some recommendations based on our experience :

Must eat

Kg Daun - I love this place! We spent 4 hours there. The food was awesome, the ambiance was really peaceful. The air was so fresh. Love eating surrounded by waterfall.
Sapu Lidi - not too bad. Eating right smack in the middle of a paddy field. Food was good. Turn off was mosquitos
Sierra at the hilltop - we had our anniversary dinner there. Enjoyed the sunset and the steak was awesome! The view was really supporting the the romantic feel.

Must shop

Pasar Baru - the kain there were super cheap. Like 80% cheaper than Jakel! I bought this lace pair which normally cost RM700-RM800 per pair and I got it for RM170 after conversion!!
Factory Outlet - a lot over here, the biggest would be Rumah Mode. Prices are about the same, feel free to explore (I went to nearly 20 of them!)
Leather street - Jalan Cibaduyut, where else can you get a pair of pure leather shoes for RM40!! Got a pair each for my dad and dad in law
Toko Tiga Jeans Street - I can never afford Levi's and here I got myself 4 pairs of Levi's. Got few pairs for MBH and the kids as well

Must See

Tangkuban Perahu - this is a semi active volcano area. The view was really awesome and there were alot of handmade crafts sold there. But careful, avoid buying from sellers who are not from the stalls there. The prices may be double to even tripled the normal price

Must Do

Go to the spa, have a full body massage. In fact, do this every day while you are there. Super super cheap!!! Imagine less than RM100 for nearly 3 hours treatment. And the service seriously tip top!

Let's end this entry with some photos of during trip, and we promised we will come again Insyallah (if only I get to convinced MBH to come here againlah)

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Success (or failure) by association

2011-10-19T21:55:00.000+08:00

When I was in college, I have this good friend and we can be considered close. She was indeed one of the individuals I would turn to when I am in troublem which at that age, it could happen quite frequent. We share many things, and I always thought I knew her well.

After over 1 year, only then I got to know she was a daughter of someone who holds a high position in society. I was very surprised as she has never mentioned it before. Then, she said "you want to be friends with me or my dad" and the conversation stopped there. We never spoke about it ever again.

For those who have twitter account may have followed some politician regardless from which camp. And sometimes you can actually get good entertainment reading how immature and childish this elected reps can behave. Latest, was accusing a son of a prominent party's leader of a misconduct. This cause a rucus in the twitter jaya. I tend to wonder, what if the son's father was a nobody, will this create such attention?

From the 2 above scenarios, you can see how sometimes we judge people based on who they are associated to. It can be related by blood or by other means like political association, working relationship or just good friends. Being human, that's just our nature, I guess.

I have known many people who got to be where they are now not only because of their capabilities(which I am sure they are competent in what they do), also by the various relationships they have with people around them. Some may call it cronysm, some may call it lucky. You call it whatever you want, the truth is they are where they are and you are not.

I have also known many people who are more that capable and competent in what they do, however due to relationship with some individuals, they have been stereotyped or even blacklisted. Some may not even get equal chance as others. Yes, life may not be fair. And one even willing to end friendship due to perception of others based on the close friendship s/he has with inidividuals who are not liked by the rest of so called majority.

I value people based on who they are. I appreciate them based on their kindness and how they have treated me well. Regardless what others have been saying about them, never will I let people's voice form my opinion. I have been created with my own brain and heart, I don't need to follow what the majority has ruled. My opinion will be based on my experience. They can be hated by other based on something they really did or allegedly have done, but as long as they are nice to me, they are in my good book. Sadly, not many people have the same mindset.

Yes, we have the right to form judgement. But, please at least let it be based on our own experience and not what others have encountered. Different relationship will have different journey or path. What others have gone through may not be what you will or have been going through. Like me, I am sure you were born with your own brain too ;)

One close friend (or used to be close friend) have shut me out from her life, without even attempting to get my side of story. I am still struggling to let go but I am human. It will take time but I know I will get to that point if not sooner, later. I am sad I lost her, but I am more disappointed with myselfnfor trusting her over the years, for sharing many intimate details of my life with her. How could I be so naive and stupid.

Though she has never asked for my forgiveness, maybe because she did not think she has hurt me, but yes, I have forgiven her....and I acknowledge, I really need to let go....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

There's first time for everything

2011-10-17T22:54:00.000+08:00

I always believe there's first time for everything. That is of course, if we are willing to take a chance and try it. Sometimes we are so afraid to try something new that we keep on doing things the same way. We sometimes have too much what if situation...

Let's reflect of few of my first time experience....

The first time I used facial stuff
I was not that particular about my appearance. I started using facial cleanser at the age of 21. Before that, I just use bar soap, be it Lux, Palmolive, or sabun kaler hijau ada gambo burung. Can't remember what it was called. As for make up, I started actively using it at the age of 26 after I delivered Baby. Before that, make up was only for special occassions like dinners or weddings. Now, I will try to use make up when I leave the house. While others believe not using make up is like natural beauty, in my case, it looks more like a natural disaster! Let's face it, some people just need help in that area and I am one of those some people. And believe it or not, I started using moisturiser at the age of 28. That was when I saw the Olay Total Effect advert. Went to Guardian and said "Mak ai! Mahal siot!" Because of the cost, I use it very kedekutly, and one bottle can last me for more than 6 months!

The first time I took the train and aeroplane
I first took the train (real train, not LRT, or KTM) when I was 21 on our way to Batu Pahat for Raya as the bus tickets were all sold out. It was not a plesant journey, we don't have that much money so MBH and I traveled via economy class. We reached Kluang around 4am in the morning and waited till after Subuh for dad in law to pick us up, don't want to wake him up. As for the plane, my first time was when I was 6, we went to Australia. I was fortunate my ad worked for airline company so we get to travel all around the world! Taking the plane now is not as awesome as before. The service was really tip top, not like now....even 5 star airlines give budget treatment

The first time in my career....

My first job was when I was 6 doing voice over for commercials and foreign drama. I was doing that till I was 16 and had to stopped to enter boarding school. My first after SPM job was in SJMC where I met MBH while my first real job after college was with Maxis Call Centre which I must admit that trained me to be patient. And many of you may not know, I was asked to resign after a month joining this freight forwarding company due to I can't stay long hours as Baby was still small at that time. I remembered how I cried in the rain, thinking how stupid I wss while holding my final pay check. An experience which I will not forget forever.

I want to continue....but for the first time today, I feel so sleepy. Hence, zzzzz it is. Will try to continue later....Insyallah...

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Saya sepasang kasut

2011-10-14T08:08:00.001+08:00

Saya sepasang kasut yang dibuat di Malaysia. Saya dilahirkan di sebuah kilang yang berjenama biasa2 jer. Saya mempunyai beratus-ratus adik beradik dari pelbagai warna, hijau, biru, cekelat dan macam2 lagi. Tidak seperti kasut branded gitew yang selalunya tidak ramai adik beradiknya malah namanyer tergeliat lidah nak sebut. Mungkin kerana harga kami tergolong dalam lingkungan harga patut, maka ramai mampu memiliki saya dan adik beradik saya.

Tiba satu ketika, saya dan adik beradik saya akan dipisahkan. Ada yang ke selatan, ada yang ke utara dan juga ada yang dapat terbang lebih jauh merentasi lautan samada ke Malaysia Timur atau negara jiran. Saya mendapat tahu destinasi saya tidak jauh, kira seperlaungan jer dari tempat saya dilahirkan. Sebelum kami masuk ke kotak masing2, lambaian terakhir diberikan dengan ucapan, selamat maju jaya dengan tuan yang baru, itupun kalau laku.

Saya akhirnya sampai ke destinasi di Mutiara Damansara rasanya dia satu kompleks membeli belah The Curve. Semasa saya dikeluarkan dari lori, suasana masih gelap, al maklumlah, dalam kotak lagi. Apabila kompleks itu bakal memulakan operasi, saya dikeluarkan dari kotak dan diletakan di atas meja untuk pameran kepada pengunjung yang datang. Oh, lupa nak bagi tau, saya berwarna cekelat muda, tidak bertumit, orang putih cakap flats.

Ramai juga orang yang lalu lalang, ada yang berhenti mencuba saya, ada yang pegang2 jer, ada yang tengok, ada yang lalu buat dek jer. Macam2 kerenah manusia. Tetapi ada seorang wanita yang cantik (cantik ke?) yang sudah 3 kali datang mencuba saya. Saya yakin, saya telah berjaya menambat hati wanita itu yang kita namakan Liza(bukan nama sebenar)

Saya menunggu kedatangan Liza, masih tidak kunjung tiba. Sudah 2 hari Liza tidak datang. Mungkin hujung minggu jadi Liza tidak bekerja maka tidak lah datang ke sini. Barulah saya mendapat tahu, Ahad ini adalah hari terakhir kami di sini. Dan pada Sabtu malam, saya telah dimiliki oleh seorang wanita lain. Saya tidak suka. Kakinya huduhs dan berbau pula, bukan seperti kaki Liza yang cantik, kuku di pedicure rapi, berbau harum sekali....Mungkin jodoh kami tidak kesampaian...

Sehingga hari ini saya terkenangkan Liza, dan saya yakin Liza juga terkenangkan saya....Mungkin takdirnya begini dan saya harap Liza akan bertemu jodoh dengan kasut yang lebih baik, cantik, menariks kau memang d bomb dari saya....

*sorry for this poyo entry, it's obvious I can't get the shoes out of my head*

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

You don't know what you don't know

2011-10-11T07:52:00.000+08:00

I think it's human nature that we love to assume. We assume situation would go bad or good, we assume the reason why people do this and that, and we assume based on how people act. I, at times, assume too, though I try very hard to minimise the assumption I make.

I am not good at taking risk. When I see things are exposed to risk, I do the best thing I know, I avoid it. At times, I regret my decisions for avoiding it (most of the times actually), however, at times, I am glad I did what I did.

However, many things in life make me think, perhaps I should give many things a shot. The thing about afraid to take risks is the fact that it may effect the people I love. I don't want them to be in trouble due to my risk taking activities. And there again, I assume they are not ok with the things I want very much to venture.

MBH told me a couple of days ago, sometimes we just have to follow the path that has been destined for us by Allah. Yes, of course that doesn't discount the fact that we need to work hard and not put everything to fate semata2. But, at the same time, there are things that we just can't avoid. Whether we realised it or not, some things are just meant to be. We can resists it all we want, but some how if it's meant to happen, it will happen. Whether we take the longer route or a shorter route, we will always go back to the things we avoid.

Yes, I am taking the new principle in my life. I don't know what I don't know.

I was so afraid to try this new career path, afraid it will effect my family time, afraid I could not give the commitment to do my best. When actual fact, I am enjoying this new journey, I feel my work life balance is much better now, I feel the flexibility and empowered to manage my own schedule. Yes, I don't know what I don't know

Just when I thought I am careful in giving out my trust to people, people whom I thought will value my trust and friendship were the ones who destroyed my belief there are good people in this world. People whom I thought I can rely on, were the ones who left me when I needed them the most. Whilst the helping hands came from sources I could not even imagine. Yes, I don't know what I don't know

I assume about some people based on what I hear. Yes, based on the input from people whom I thought I can trust. I set a pre conceived judgement to this people. I build a wall so that I will not get close to this people, I set my own perception based on other people's experience. When actually, after getting know this people, they tend to be the one supporting me, entertaining my stupid questions, making sure I do well. Yes, I don't know what I don't know

And when you hear about me from other people's stories. You made your judgement based on other people's experience. You never bothered to get my side of stories. You assume I am undermining your team based on an input which was proven to be wrong, you believe in a scenario which never happened. When actual fact I am.....Well, you don't know what you don't know....

And if only you know what are this people made of, you'll be surprised. Putting hadith or Quran verses in FB wall does not make someone a good person with pure intention. And that does not make someone is better that the rest of us. What you see may not be necessarily what you get. If only you know what this people are talking about you, you'll be suprised their actions are not consistent at all with their words....Well, you don't know what you don't know......

To those whom it may concern, sudah2lah making up stories about people, sudah2lah creating something that never happened. Sudah2lah messing with people's life. I don't know what kind of satisfaction you get out of this, but I can assure you, when the truth is out, when people finally see and know what I see and know....there will be no turning back.

I am happier person now, happier that the happy person I always have been. Not you or anyone else could ever take that happiness away from me. Cause I believe Allah knows what I am made off :)

Take risk, get to know me, the real me. Not the one you hear stories from unreliable sources....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza on the map ~ the overdue UK trip

2011-10-04T20:01:00.001+08:00

2011 has been a year full of travelling thus far. One of the working trips I was privileged to be part of was the one to UK. Why this trip was special cause it's not only in London, but I got to visits other part of UK. The trip was quite sudden as I was really new in that role. Anyhow, was really honoured.....This entry is very much overdue cause the trip was in March :)

I get to visit Oxford, Cambridge, London, Manchester, Liverpool and Warwick. I enjoyed Oxford the best, until today I can say...I can totally imagine living there, raising my kids. I know that is just a dream, cause I don't think I am smart enough to even apply for the prestigious university. Yup, I visited many many top universities namely Oxford, Cambridge, University of Central London, Imperial College, London School of Economics, Manchester University and Warwick University.

Let me just share with you the photos from the trips........Let the pictures speaks a thousand words.......

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

2011 is..........my gadget year

2011-09-25T23:11:00.000+08:00

I am not a gadget person. My name and gadget should not even be in a sentence. If it is, it's an awkward sentence. However, I amazed myself by purchasing so many gadgets, more gadget I have gotten myself in a life time. Blackberry I have doesn't count, that's part of work *boring*

First, of course, I got myself an ipad2. After contemplating to get the first generation of ipad, I managed to convinced myself to visit the Apple website and got the second generation instead. I nearly got one during my trip to UK (which coincidently, the first day ipad2 was launched there), and tempted to get one when I was in US. At last, bought it online instead, after few disappointment trying to get it from the Apple stores. And the best thing is, I was not the one paying for it! It was the anniversary from my better half. However, my people predicted wrongly. Many thought the moment I got the ipad, I will never be separated with the new gadget just like everyone else. However, not entirely true. The timing I got the ipad was so apt as the Ramadhan month was approaching and I used it for tadarus Al-Quran. I can read it anywhere, on the train, while sitting quietly in one corner or even right after prayer, anywhere. As for the Angry Bird craze, I gave in to temptation, and downloaded the games last month...But, somehow got tired of it. So now, I use my ipad when I feel like it, not all the time pun....

The gadget that I got was the Ipod touch. A friend once told me the moment I entered the Apple world, there's not turning back. I wanted to get Ipod Classic so that I can use it while I do my jogging or even at the gym. Somehow, MBH was against that idea so the intention stopped there. However, one day after work, he surprised me when he got me one Ipod Touch! I didn't know this small slim gadget has so many features. You should see the look on my face when MBH told me I can surf the internet in Wifi covered area. And of course, thousands of songs can be uploaded using this gadget. I was thrilled...but until today have yet to download any songs. This is main used by the kids, playing games or when Ilham was studying for UPSR, he used Score A using this. I will make it a point to upload songs by next week *self monitored KPI*.

And the latest purchased was made 2 weeks ago and it was one of the proudest moment in my life! I can now proudly tell people, Yes! I have been to Low Yatt. So kodi kan? Being a KL person, but never been to Low Yatt. I was mesmerised the first time I set foot in this mall. And I vowed that I will definitely come again. What did I buy? I bought a Wii game set. The main intention was for me to work out using this gadget. However, the first try to install this was not a pleasant experience as I forgot to inform MBH to use the power converter which caused the AC adapter to explode! Only 2 days ago I bought a new adaptor and has started enjoying our Wii.

What kind of gadget should I get next? Iphone 5 is gonna be lauched soon. Should I consider getting one? Or should I choose Playbook instead. Or perhaps Xbox. Decisions decisions. But, actually, on top of my wish list is the Mac book. Perhaps what the friend told me was true after all. The moment anyone entered the Apple world, there's no turning back. We shall see whether the theory is proven.

For now, let me entertain myself the traditional way....reading a good book :)

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

It's so funny....

2011-09-22T21:03:00.000+08:00

Many things in life never fail to amuse me. Most of those things are done by us, human, one of the very many God's creation.

It's so funny....

When we criticise other people's FB status, claiming it sounded so emotional, advised you to tone down and warned you people would judge you or have different perception of you.....when your own status are similar if not worse. Let's not even talk about your friends status, such double standard huh?

It's so funny....

When you have to be at the top of your lungs in the office, trying to justify to others how busy you are, as if your work is more important than others, as if the whole organisation will collapse if you are not around, as if others are not pulling their weight and you have to do everything when actual fact, what you do is not that great and you yourself knows that, but due to insecurity, you just have to broadcasts your work on daily basis

It's so funny...

When you criticise how people live their life, how you scrutinise people's lifestyle, how others raise their kids, how others dress, how others talk...when in your actual life, you house is a filthy, your husband not doing his share, your kids don't listen to you and you are a mess inside!

It's so funny....

When you think you have the worse fate, when you think the whole world is against you, when you think everything revolves only around you. When you think you are the only one with a schedule, when you think your time is more precious than others...and yet you want people to respect you when in actual fact you don't deserve anyone's respect!

It's so funny....

When you know how much you despise me, how much you hate my status updates, how much you think the happiness in my life is fake, how much you feel I should not be too transparent in my FB and blog...and yet you still are very much interested to know where I checked in today, reviewing my photo albums, and waiting for my next blog entry...

It's so funny....

When you think, this blog entry is about you.......when actual fact is....

IT IS ABOUT YOU if you have done what I mentioned above....

Signing off,

liza365.blogpost.com

The test I received is not that bad

2011-09-15T07:15:00.001+08:00

I must share this. Cause my niat is for us to be more grateful with what we have, to remind us our life is not that bad compared to others who may encountered worse fate. Let me tell you why...

Of late, thanks to Facebook, I got to be reunited with many old friends. Either from primary and secondary school, college, ex colleagues or even friends who I met in my life journey. As much as people may not agree, there are good things that came out from Facebook. It's all up to us, whether we want to make it positive or negative. And earlier this week, I met with another one.

This lady was my supervisor in my previous company. Coincidently, our son went to the same school, they were even classmates. I remembered how both of them were prefect and how
Ilham always address him as his best friends. When we moved to Bangi and she moved to Shah Alam, we lost contact and never heard of each other again.

Until early this week when I got FB friend request and it was her. I was so happy to meet her again, only to know, she went through few sad things in life. I just got to know, she lost her dearest husband 2 years ago. We knew her husband, cause we've been to her house before and like wise she had been to ours. For those who knows me would know, I don't deal with death very well, so I don't know how to ask her the cause of death. And that's when I found out the death was quite sudden, not like Arwah was sick for quite sometime before being called by Allah. I quickly have the images of her 2 sons, little did I know last Ramadhan she was tested again....

And this time, her only daughter was called by Allah. I don't even know she has a daughter. Apparently, she got her daughter after we lost contact. I then went through her photo albums and the latest one was photos from this Raya. How she could still smile and how she knows she needs to be strong for her 2 sons. This is the courage I admire. And this made the problems I was facing at that time seems so small.....

A loving couple they were, and she lost the man she loves. And I know how mothers love their kids and she lost one of them. Make me question myself, if I were tested like that, will I be able to stay strong like her, solid as a rock! I am tested this past couple months, and that test was nothing compared to her tests.....I feel so ashamed of myself....

Hence, I realised, life is so short and I want it to be filled with happiness. Genuine happiness that is....No amount of money can buy my pride or secure me happiness...hence the decisions I made.....

Alhamdulilah, life has been treating me kind. And I must always remind myself to be grateful to Allah. I lost few friends, however, when I reflect back there are reasons why Allah remove all this people from my life. He is trying to protect me from people He knows very well will not be with me through bad times and will only be there when times are good...and He replaced that with people who make me feel so blessed with my life and start to appreciate people who are worth appreciating...

Yes, my life is good, in fact, my life is great! Alhamdulilah....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

What makes me me!

2011-09-13T09:09:00.000+08:00

As much as I hate to admit it, most of the time, I am a crowd pleaser. I just like to be liked, I love to make people happy and I enjoy seeing people enjoying their life. Sometimes, at the expense of my life. I sometimes try to act to suit the people around which typically resulting me to be so tired, and at the end of the day, some what depress.

However, an eye opening event happened last week where someone whom I thought to be very close to me and knows me decided to give me the silent treatment. As always, when this happens, I started to blame myself, thinking I must have done something really wrong to offend this person. I started to backtracked what I could possibly done and knowing her friendship meants a lot to me, I apologise when I failed to see what I did I do to deserve such treatment. And her response made me sadder, indicating it would be good to be silent rather than say things which will hurt people. I don't know how to inteprete this, whether is she requesting for my silence or she prefer not to have a conversation with me fearing she may say things which will hurt me. Either way, I am sad it has to come to this as she is not my normal friend, she is one of the closest people in my life.

I took few days to reflect. Why do people so bothered about how I live my life. This friend told me perhaps I should consider to be less transparent about my feelings especially in FB and blog, as I might offend readers of this 2 platforms may feel "terasa" and upset. Since she is(or should I say was) my close friend, I automatically thought she is right.

I started to talk to others who have known me longer, those who I have known many many more years. And one of them is someone I have been friends with for more than 20 years. What he said was this "Liza, people who loves you, will love you no matter what. Cause people who loves you know the kind person you are, how you care for others and how you will do anything for friends. And this group of people who loves you unconditionally will never want you to change, so why do you listen to people who thinks they know you when they don't have a clue who you are". He added how I should start focusing on people who loves me no matter what as opposed to people who hates me no matter what. And the fact that how could she shut me out when I am in need of friends while I go through this phase in my life.

He could not be more right. I have a great husband who knows me and would never want me to change (even said he don't really want me to loose weight cause he loves how I look like), my kids who never fail to create smile on my face, my family who are just a phone calls away and would drop everything and run to me when I needed them and alot of wonderful real friends who would not judge me, who are happy when I am happy and cry with me when I am sad....This are the real people in my life, people who deserve my undivided attention....

So, when I read in a FB status of another friend asking what makes you you, it triggered my mind that all this wonderful people makes me me. They would not want me to change, they would not outcast me when I am no longer the majority and they will never listen to what others said about me, cause they know me better. They will never give me the silent treatment, they will tell me when they think I am wrong cause they want to see me improve, and they will not make assumptions about my life and would seek clarification directly from me if they think they needed one. This is the people who believe in me and I am so lucky cause the total of this people are more than the fingers and toes that I have. I am just blessed.

It's ok to loose some people in my life. Allah shows things in various and mysterious ways and there are reasons why you have people in and out of your life. It'll make you a stronger person...Insyallah.....

And I must always remember, while others struggle with non stop challenges in their life, I must also admit, the challenges in my life thus far are not that bad compared to others. And I should be really grateful and blessed. And I must remember, I have tried my best and if my rezeki is just not here anymore, it's time to move on......Insyallah, my rezeki will always be there when I need it....(mentally preparing to tanam anggur)

On another note, my doa non stop for my son Ilham who will be sitting (or rather currently in exam hall) for him to answer the questions dengan tenang, Insyallah.....no matter what the outcome maybe, I know he has done his best and I love him no matter what

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Managing diversity and social network messages

2011-09-05T20:43:00.001+08:00

Let's admit, we live in a world where we just find it difficult to respect let alone to accept people's diversity. The moment we see things which according to us is not normal, we first will give the look, then we judge, next we criticise this difference to others and finally we outcast. Sound familiar? Yes, stop being in denial, we all do that. And that include me. Even I have done this before.

Why do we think being different is a bad thing. Why do we think by others being different we are given the license to judge. While we acknowledge everyone is equal in the eyes of God, the difference is the deeds we do and yet we decided to play God's role and judge others. And worse, not only we judge when we are not supposed to, we influence others to have the same view as ours. We influence others to be the so called majority and end up distancing ourselves from the so called weirdo. That's just not cool in my definition.

And I came across this interesting FB status update from a friend :

WELCOME TO FACEBOOK.The place where people add you as a friend & walk past you in the street.Where relationships are perfect,affairs are started & liars believe they are telling the truth.ur enemies visit ur profile the most,yet ur friends & fmly block you & even though you write what u are really thinking,someone always takes it the wrong way & people think ur status is abt them. Repost if you agree!

I did not repost this, but I couldn't agree with this quote more. Most of us have FB, twitter, blog or other type of social media. We use this for various reasons like connecting with old friends, finding new friends, advertising our business or many other reasons. I overheard a conversation while I was having coffee few days ago. Some girls were chatting about their friends FB and scrutinising the life portrayed by the friend. One girl said, "takkanlah hidup dia happy camtu, tipulah". And the rest of the crowd agreeing with her. It sounded like they are accusing this person to put not so accurate information about her life in FB.

My thoughts - so what if she did that. So what if she just want to put happy stuff. And on the flipside, so what if others want to put the sad stuff in their FB. Why are we so bothered? Why do we get annoyed? And when we claimed we are annoyed, why are we still interested in this person life and just can't stop visiting the person's wall. Isn't it much simpler if we remove the person from our friends list or if we are trying to be polite, we can hide their updates. FB has all those features, we are the one who are just so nosy and yet full of hatred. Whylah?

I love my FB, I am not going to deny it. I love updating my status, I love uploading photos, I love checking in to places. This is me. When I am sad, I will share my sadness, when I am happy, I will share my happiness. That's just me. The weird thing is..

When someone put status update they are upset about something, you accused them of being emotional,

But when you or your friends do the same, you are ok with it

When someone update about their happiness, upload photos of places they visited or things they purchased, you accused them as showing off

But when you or your friends do the same, you are ok with it

When someone update about their spouses or kids development or photos, you dare to say, macamlah dia je ada laki/bini/anak2,

But when you or your friends do the same, you are ok with it

Me? I love reading my friends FB. When they are happy, I can sincerely feel their happiness. When they are sad, I feel like I am there feeling their sorrow. When their kids did something outstanding, I feel proud too as if like it's the success of my kids. When their spouses get nice things for them, I feel happy as well to know my friends are being appreciated by their other halves. Yes, I genuinely love reading my friends updates....

On that note, what I put in my FB is as real as it can get. I have a happy life, I have a good family, I have many good friends, I get to enjoy many wonderful things in life. Trust me when I say life is good, I meant every word. My life is really good. I maybe different from you, I maybe have different kind of life, I maybe have different kind of interests. But, let me reiterate, I am REAL! REAL!

I will keep op doing my thing in my FB. I love doing it so I choose to keep on updating it. Will not stop unless I feel like stopping......

Afterall, Life Is Good!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Seloka Hari Raya (and please don't ask me what Seloka means....)

2011-08-24T08:32:00.001+08:00

Buah kurma manisan utama

Dikala senja dan menjelang fajar

Ramadhan disambut dengan gembira

Ibadat dipertingkat pahala dikejar

Bermacam juadah di atas meja,

Ada dimasak ada dari bazar,

Solat terawih amat istimewa,

Senaman terbaik selepas iftar

Sedar tak sedar masuk 20 hari,

Terawih diteruskan ditinggal tiada

Lailatulqadar amat dirindui

Pahala terbesar keampuan dipinta

Hari berlalu makin hampir

Suara takbir terngiang ngiang

Persiapan dibuat baju dan langsir

Hari lebaran hampir menjelang

Sayu rasa Ramadhan berakhir

Doa dipohon untuk berjumpa semula

Syawal tanda kemenangan mutakhir

Masa bertemu sanak saudara

Sesudah sebulan ibadah dijalankan

Amalan baik moga berkekalan

Anak tak sabar menyambut lebaran

Bak kata mereka beraya sakan

Diakhiri dengan penuh kemaafan

Ucapan Selamat Hari Raya

Keampunan dipohon penuh keikhlasan

Buat bekalan di akhirat jua......

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

I'm just an awesome person

2011-08-18T08:04:00.001+08:00

*caution - to all haters out there (though I wonder if you hate me, why are you even here reading stuff about my life), you may not like this entry. So I strongly suggest for you to click the x icon on the top right of this screen and leave before you suffer more heartaches.

I woke up this morning feeling awesome. Oklah, not really awesome. Infact, I am feeling super awesome. I know for a fact I am an awesome person. Some have called me superwoman and you know what? I guess they are righr after all.

As a wife
I know I am an awesome wife. Since the day I got married, I take care of my better half. I prepare his daily clothes from top to toe, I prepare his meals, I make him drinks everyday before going to bed and I coordinate things for him. Even when I am travelling, I take care of all this before I go for my trips. And when you say susah senang bersama, I really embrace that statement. Cause I stand by my man through thick and thin. When we were not that well off, my love for him is strong and it gets stronger each day we spend together.

As a mom
Baby always says I am a cool mom. She said I'm her best friend. Mira said she can tell me everything. She said none of her friends have a mom who take them to concerts or do other fun stuff. Ilham said I am the best mother anyone could ever wished for. And that I will drop everything I have whenever any of them needs me. And I am proud to say, I took care of them
since the day they were born, just with MBH. Never had a maid and that was by choice. Yes, we
struggle and juggle alot. But, Alhamdulilah, it turn out well. And whoever dare to say, "ko
senanglah, anak dah besar2, no need a maid". Newsflash! Before they are this big, they were
small. Imagine having 2 girls and 1 boy with age gap average 1.5 years. And we managed. And we are still managing. I must say as well, my kids are really well behaved. They hardly throw tantrums in public and I can't recall any time they wanted something from us and we said no and they started to scream or cry in public. I don't think that ever happened before. Yes, credits need to be given when credits are due. And I am giving myself credits for raising such well behaved kids. My wish is for them to grow up as anak soleh dan solehah. Amin....

As a daughter/daughter in law/sister/sister in law/cousins and the list go on
My parents raised me well. They instilled good values and raised me to be a kind person. My
parents taught me never to menzalimi others. And this make me turned out to be a good person.
I am a responsible daughter, though there's no way I can ever repay what my parents have done
for me. I am an awesome daughter in law. I have never made MBH to choose between me and his family. I will always tell him to put his family first cause he is the eldest son and his
responsibility is towards his family first. I never differentiate between my family and his. What I get for mine, his will get it as well. And I know I am always there for them. Always.....

As a friend
I am a good friend. I keep secrets very well despite what others say about me. No, it wasn't
me who told everyone about about this person who got pregnant again. And when I was doing IR,
not a soul get any info from me about who has a case and who are screwed. Nope, not from me
ever! And even I was handling cases, never have I treated the person differently after that.
To me, it's not my position to judge, I was just doing my job. I will always be there for my
friends. I will back them up when I can, I will never sell them out just to climb corporate
ladder or to look good. And if my friends kena belasah in a meeting, I will not share this
with anyone. I will not even talk about it like how some people who keep telling people yg
takde kena mengena about how Liza kena belasah in a meeting. And the best part, bagi info
separuh2. And if this how some people define carrying amanah is all about, perhaps they need
to understand first the meaning of amanah which don't involve telling others lies.

As an employee
I am a dedicated employee. Any tasks given to me, I wil give my all to deliver it. I put my passion in my work to deliver the desired results. I am not that concern with the reward caus
rezeki di tangan Allah. Many many projects given to me, have been completed successfully. I am proud of my work quality and will continue to deliver my best no matter where I am attached
with. For those who can't see the value that I bring, all I can say is, you loss, not mine!

As a person, I am a kind person and full of compassion. I am an emotional person cause I put my emotion in everything I do. Cause I believe, whatever things, if you put your heart into it, it will give a good results Insyallah. I need to work on the area of forgiveness cause I find it hard to forgive people that easy though I must say, I have improved in that area. Just forgiven a friend last week, which the thing she did, was really awful. No matter what negative stuff you have heard about me, come and ask me whether it's true. Chances are it's
not. And if it is, I am not afraid to admit my mistakes. To me, admiting, saying sorry and
move on is much simpler than trying to deny and then take the trouble to point who to blame. Oh, did I forget to mention I am a good cook, I have a good voice, and my skin is just perfec for a 35 year old person, no significant wrinkles, fine lines, eye bags or scars from acne. Awesome isn't it! Sure I am overweight but still cantik!!

I love my life and I have no regrets. Even in the current situation, I don't regret it abit cause now I know who are my real friends and who are not. And my life is perfect, at least it's perfect for me. Wonderful husband, 3 adorable kids, big house, nice cars, supportive family members from both sides, good job(both current and future), many many real friends. And the journey is still a long way to go and I look forward to enjoy each and every moment of it....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Of MATTA Fair and Pasar Ramadhan

2011-08-14T22:18:00.001+08:00

When I was a child, I remembered how I helped my dad at his Nasi Ayam stall. I usually do that after school, and if I have homework, I will bring my homework and do it at the stall. Stall was located in Sg Wei and regardless I was in morning or afternoon, I will go after school or religious school.

My dad always gave me the task to take care of the cashier counter. He said, this will help to improve my maths. He will not allow me to wash the dishes. That would be done by his staff. And at times, he will ask me to take orders. He said, that would help me to practise courtesy to people.

Yes, I used the word courtesy. Ever since I was a child, my dad has thought me the importance of customer service. He always reminded us, customers are our rezeki. He said that to his staff. He said to his staff, though this shop is not yours, but when the shop did well, everyone will be rewarded. So, there must be sense of belonging. And my dad at all times fullfilled his promise, he will reward his staff on timely basis.

And that is why I am very particular about customer service. Those who have worked in the same team as I do would know that. To me, whether it's external customer, or internal customer i.e. within your organisation, servicing your clients are very very important. Think about it. If you don't have customer, be it, internal or external, do you have a job to begin with. So for those in HR, Procurement, Finance or whatever internal division, if you think being nice to your other colleagues who are actually your internal customer, just remember when everything is automated and they don't have to deal with you anymore, how does it feel to go to ATM machine and not having any money to withdraw at the end of the month cause you are no longer needed.

So, today, I had the experience of 2 types of customer service. One was at the MATTA Fair. MBH and I looked forward for this fair, this is usually when we book our holiday plans, and this time around is for our year end holiday. We wanted to see all the offers available so we know the best one we should be paying for. I tried surfing online on Friday and Saturday, but I am just not satisfied. With the amount of money we intend to pay, we better make sure we are getting a good bargain. We went from one booth to another. And I can say, 95% of the people we met, should not be in tourism industry at all. Not only they don't know their products, some were defensive and not welcoming. We went to this one stall where the person who was supposed to attend to us, look at us atas bawah as if we can't afford to pay. Yelah, memang lah akak pakai sempoi kan. So, after explaining 10% of the info and not doing it seriously, he just passed us to one of his colleagues cause he was eyeing for another potential customer who definitely dressed better than us. Yelah, akak tak pakai LV, Coach wristlet jer...

And this one booth, everything we asked for, the response is "tak boleh", "tak buat" or "tak ade". I was so tempted to ask, so apa yang ada. But, reminded myself, sesungguhnya aku berpuasa. And then this one booth, 2 staff attended to us and they started to argue with each other, on the visa requirement, airport tax or other info on the package. So not convincing! In the end, yes, we got what we wanted(the booth is the remaining 5% that knows their product and very very polite) and I know it's a good price cause I've done my homework before we came to the fair. And of course, after getting opinions from people who have been to the place we are planning to go.

My next encounter of customer service would be at Pasar Ramadhan. MBH told me, over the weekend, I should not cook cause I need to rest too. I work and cook for 5 days, I deserve the weekend off. Yesterday, we ate at this place Red Card Cafe, Bandar Baru Bangi where the food and service is really good! But, I somehow feel, I am really not a buffet person and I feel the money paid is not a well spent one so today, we just bought some dishes at Pasar Ramadhan (which I regretted as well cause...maleh nak criter)

Almost all stalls are snobbish! Not only they are not friendly, sombong pulak tu. How can people even wanting to be in business with such attitude. Let me share with you this one particular incident. I wanted to buy one piece of ayam masak merah. The girl went ahead to pack my order and then I wanted to pay for the food to her boss. The chicken costs RM3.50 so I gave RM5 which I think is more than reasonable. He dared to mengeluh cause I did not give small change. Like hello! Pulang balik RM1.50 jer bang ooiiii! Not as if I gave RM50 for RM3.50 worth of purchase! After getting my change and wanted to get my order, he was holding on to my chicken and was asking me, betul ke seketul. Haiyo, I did not pack the chicken myself lah, your staff did it for me. And then when handing it over to me, he asked me, dah bayar ke belum. I nearly lost my temper there, I told him, awak yang ambik duit saya tadi! And then only he thanked me and said datang lagi! NOT! As we drove back from the Pasar Ramadhan, I was grumbling to MBH, I should have cooked cause I feel cheated in all the things that we bought!

But, not all shops provide bad services. There are good ones, not many though. Like the place near our home where I buy my lense and today ordered a new pair of spectacles. Not only the service is good, the product they are selling are also reasonable price. And the reward is we are their repeating customer.

So those who are or intend to be in the service industry, that includes groceries stores, or food places, please please please pay extra attention to the service extended. This really motivate me to pursue my dream, to open an academy training people in customer service. And I will name the academy after my dad, as I owe this passion to him.

Also to this in corporate world, does it kill you to be kind and polite. Pffffttt!!!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

And the rainbow appears.....

2011-08-12T06:49:00.000+08:00

After going through rough ride for this past couple of weeks, I am somehow glad there's a closure. The closure may not be something I wanted, but the bottom line is, there's closure. I am glad things happen the way it did. After solat Isya' yesterday, everything starts to make sense and I understand, accept and learning to embrace what has happened to me.

I had a good conversation with a good friend, and she commented perhaps I should tone down on my FB, my BBM status or even with the way I blog. I know, I am emotional, and quite explicit on my FB and blog. And I take note of the comment made by my friend. To be fair, FB and blog are something personal, and what I have jotted down are my personal thoughts. Let's just put it this way, when people don't like you, they just don't like you no matter what you do. I've seen more emotional and directly intended kind of messages in my other colleagues FB. But I don't hear people complaining. Oh, I forgot, I am a nobody so no point for people to suck up to me kan?

This journey has shown me what are some people made of. And the best thing is, this happened in the month of Ramadhan where we human, can't blame Syaitan.This is all us, our very own behaviour. Our real deal. I see how people are willing to throw and discredit the good work that has been done over the years just to save their own a**. I see leaders who are not willing to stand up for their people. And each time I remind myself, never to do that to my people.

I see friends turning their back on me. Friends who knows things but not telling. Friends who are also part of the whole process. Friends who I don't even know I should still call them friends. I see friends who previously utter how they hate certain individuals, but now liking every comments in FB made by the same individuals that they said they hate. (Yes, FB can help you to track consistency :) )

And I see friends who instigated me not to like certain people, and also to retaliate in certain ways which usually start with, "Liza, if I were you, I sure will kenakan/sabo dia balik". And few minutes later, this same person who claimed how she hates this person, and wanted to disconnect all ties with this person, went on liking FB status and making cheery comments. Real human in a real drama.

After every rain, there's a rainbow. I saw my rainbow yesterday. After solat Isya' I hear this light whisper, perhaps Allah wants me to leave all this to protect me. How can we be in an environment where almost all the relationships are fake. Saying one thing and means another. Keep on questioning who is real and who is fake. And who wears a mask, and who are just genuine.

I know now I don't have that many friends, but I am ok with that. It's not about quantity but more of quality. What is the point of having so many friends but at the end of the day, I cry alone. And I am glad, I am not crying alone. There are still honest people with the highest intergrity around me, backing me up.

There are many things, many people don't know. When I told my friend yesterday, she also just discovered many things, cause I never share this with her. Why didn't I share it anyone? Cause it doesn't involve anyone else, and I am not like certain people who just love to tell things to people. The earlier discussions and decisions were between my bosses and I, why do anyone else need to know. But not having the knowledge, doesn't give you any right to assume! NO RIGHT AT ALL!

I will move on. Insyallah, Allah will show the truth. After solat subuh today, I have manage to convince myself to forgive all this people. Forgive them for their ignorance, forgive them for believing what people say, forgive them for not backing me up......Yes, I forgive them and I move on.......

It's a new day, it's another chapter of my life. And Insyallah, I am a stronger person now...

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Ramadhan, a month when the kitchen is busy!

2011-08-11T21:24:00.000+08:00

I love Ramadhan. Ramadhan is the month when I am so motivated to cook and will try to cook dishes which I don't usually cook during my normal cooking days. So far, Alhamdulilah, managed to cook every day except for last Saturday and Sunday where we had our iftar at Batu Pahat and Mira's school respectively.

Dishes I cooked thus far

Day One - Soto Sup Tulang

Day 2 - Spaghetti Bolognese with garlic bread

Day 3 - Nasi impit, rendang daging dan kuah kacang

Day 4 - Char Kuey Teow

Day 5 - Laksa

Day 8 - Bubur berlauk

Day 9 - Mee hoon, ayam masak pedas, cekodok pisang

Day 10 - Mee Kari

Day 11 - Nasi Lemak Sambal Sotong and Ayam Goreng

Don't ask me for recipe cause I don't cook by measurement. Just campak2 je. I can share the recipe but only the ingredients. The sukatan, memang fail!

Look forward to cook more recipes for the rest of Ramadhan. Who knows, if my current career doesn't work out, I may consider to start a food business *berangan mode*

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Friendship ~ from my own very personal view

2011-08-10T21:29:00.000+08:00

I don't have that many talents, that is something I always acknowledge. While people are artistic, have a good voice, creative or have good sense of fashions, I fail miserably in all of those areas. However, something that I know I am good at, and this is something many people can vouch to is my ability to make friends and engaging people.

Yes, I love making friends. I love meeting new people and I love expanding my friendships to others. That is why I choose my current line of work. Leveraging from the strengtht that I have, I would always want to be involved in engagement type of work. Something I enjoy and something I am good at. And something I want to continue doing but may not be able to do so after what happened today.....

I always believe friend will never hurt another friend, not intentionally at least. I always believe friends will look out for each other. I always believe friends will not believe lies told by others about someone you call friend. Yes, call me naive or too trusting. That are my values, that's the way my parents raised me. Do not do unto others what you do not want others do unto you

However, like a little girl who believes in kindness in every God's creation, I can feel my belief is slowly tarnished. And today, additional percentage of the belief decreased. I want to believe, but, I don't know what to believe......

A short entry from me, yes, life is short. Fill it with kindness. Fill it with love. You don't know when you will leave this world. Cherish the moment with you loved ones, you don't know how much time you have left....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

The need to give advise

2011-08-09T07:59:00.000+08:00

I am sure there are many moments in your life where people offer you advise. Especially when they see you struggling or when they see you doing things not according to their standards. I, for one, don't really like to give advise. Why? Cause ;

First - I think I am too young to give one, lack of experience that is

Second - I am still learning, so better ask those who have been through it

Third - I am so afraid of giving the wrong advise and it will come back and haunt me, or even worse, it will destroy someone's future

So, when people come to me and said "Liza, I need your advise" I get very nervous. That cuts across from giving fashion advise (gila ke mintak fashion advise from me yg so clueless) or parenting advise or advise on life in general. So, in many cases, I refrain from giving one, and just said in my opinion, on stuff that may works for me.

Typically, when people start to wanting to give advise, whether being asked or not, they will start with this phrases :

If you ask me (which in most circumstances you don't)

It will usually end up with people telling you what to do, and some dare to give this advise without even hearing the whole situation. They tend to give this based on what they see, hear or even based on their so called wide experience. Excuse me, but, I would prefer to ask for advise from someone I trust and I know they can guide me and no, I did not ask you!

Kalau I jadik you lah (in the most sinister or instigating manner)

I am not sure whether you notice this, some people they give advise in a very menghasut way. Meaning, they can't get their hands on some people, so they do the next best thing, get others to get their hands dirty while they will look good. Usually the conversation will start like this ;

Si pemberi nasihat : I nampak dia buat you macam tu, you nak biarkan saje ke?

Si penerima nasihat (yg tak mintak nasihat pun) : Biar jelah

Si pemberi nasihat : How can you let her/him do that to you

Si penerima nasihat (yg tak mintak nasihat pun) : Biar jelah

Si pemberi nasihat : Kalau I jadik you lah, I mesti taruk dia balik. Mana boleh biarkan

And, don't fall into this trap. You will likely follow this person's advise, either by getting mad to those who have done you wrong and started not to have a good relationship with that person only to see si pemberi nasihat either going out for lunch or bermesra (either in from of you or let you see this in cyber space eg FB, twitter or BBM). Sape yang rugi? Anda dan keluarga anda jugak!

You can't do it like that!

This one is more direct. They see you do things, they don't like the way you do things, they start to give you free advise. This thing can be your parenting ways, or your fashion senses or just about anything. And sometimes they do this in front of others just to embarrass you, to show they are far more superior or much better than you. And yes, this kind of advise would mostly come from those whose voice are as loud as the paper lama speaker going through your housing area.

This are the 3 types that I have at the top of my mind. As I believe in robust and dynamic lists, don't be surprised if you read another edition of the same topic. I am after all a normal human being, unlike some people who think they are just one step lower than God!

Have a good day everyone!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

And I shall move forward

2011-08-05T21:41:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulilah, I am so glad this week is over. It has been one of the longest working week ever. So many challenges need to be met, and more to come. Yes, I was down. No matter what people are gonna say or comment about how weak I am, or the countless comment about me as an emotional person, letmme say this to you all, at least I am not afraid to be myself and I am not fake! Never was, never will.

Today, as I was preparing iftar for my family, I was looking at my 3 kids chatting away. Mira was sharing about her experience fasting for the first time at boarding school while
Ilham was tryign to tell kakak what he has been up to for the last few weeks. Baby, as always, would just be blunt and said, kakak nie banyak cakap lah.

This is when for the countless time I am reminded how lucky I am. How I have such a perfect life. A house to call home, big enough for the 5 of us, we have 2 carss when people can't even have 1, 3 active, smart and healthy kids when people still trying to start a family, a man whom I call husband aka my best friend and soulmate while many others trying to find the right partner to spend their life with.

Yes, work is not really that wonderful at the moment. And yes, I am doubtful who can I call friends and who are those who pretended to be one while saying something else behind my back. And sure, my image at work has been tarnished at some level. Buy, I know what I am made of. My parents never raised me to do bad things to others no matter what they have done to me. My values are clear, that is I will never "kill" people's reputation on my way up. I just do what I know best, that is to work and work and work. And perform the best I can.

Sure there are people who used to be close to me and not anymore. Those who choose to believe what they hear even at their capacity as my close friends.

It's ok. I will go through this. This is just another phase in life. I will come out stronger and wiser. And if I reach the top, I know for a fact, it's not at anyone's expense....

May Ramadhan brings more Rahmat for my family. Insyallah, everything will be alright. Must always be reminded, Rezeki di tangan Allah.....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

My Ramadhan evolution

2011-08-04T23:10:00.000+08:00

While I was waiting for Terawih to start, after solat Isya' just now, I was having flash backs on the kind of Ramadhan I used to have before I got married and having kids. I can safely say, Ramadhan before was not the same as the current ways of embracing Ramadhan. The flash backs go like this....

When I was a kid, a real kid (though now, ada gak skit kiddish)

I was raised by my Arwah Wan until the age of 7. I remembered how Arwah Wan was training me how to fast. I think the most challenging parts were to wake me up for sahur and to respond to my frequently ask question, "lagi berapa jam Wan?". Fasting at kampung was really interesting and best giler. Wan would usually cook 2 dishes and then distribute to the neighbours. The neighbours would then send other types of dishes to our house and typically, we will have table full of delicious lauks and kuihs. I don't think many places practise this. Especially, with the busy life everyone is having, I doubt everyone has the time to cook in large portions.

Terawih and tadarus were the best moments in Ramadhan. Arwah Wan taught people mengaji and I was one of the student. By the time I was 6, I was teaching younger kids muqaddam. I started to read Al-Quran when I was 4 so I really look forward to tadarus. The tadarus we have would also include the translation and tazkirah. As for terawih, I remembered going all the way, 20 rakaat plus 3 witir. I love terawih, though I must say penat gak.

When I was in primary school

I started fasting when I was 6. Og course, started with half day. Being kiasu since I was small, I fought to fast the whole day, seeing kids older than me able to do so. By the time I was 7, I fasted the whole month without missing any days. See, kiasu can be a good thing. It was a real challenge to fast when you are in primary school Seeing friends drinking and eating in front of you and also trying to be active while wanting a sip of water. I remembered, I was really tempted to follow my friends who drank tap water in the toilet. Yes, at the age 7 or 8, while fasting, tap water pun nampak sodap! Tapi iman kuat der! Bertahan sampai maghrib tu. I don't really get the chance to go to terawih that frequent. Both of my parents worked shift hours and sometimes I have to buka puasa with my youngest brother, yes, the 2 of us. We would usually buy things from pasar ramadhan and makan berdua. Sedih gak but we know our parents are doing this to support us.

Alamak, ingat nak sambung with boarding school and later college but my eyes are very sleepy. Insyaallah, sambung esok.

And yes, I am so happy to wait for tomorrow, Mira is coming back for the weekend and then off to Batu Pahat to buka puasa with inlaws on Saturday.

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Ramadhan without Mira

2011-08-03T22:24:00.000+08:00

Our family often look forward to Ramadhan. The kids love it too cause this is the time they get to fast and the best thing is they get to request for anything they wish to eat for iftar. That is our incentive to them. Usually, we will plan our menu before Ramadhan even start. Considering we don't have a maid, planning is very important. The tedious part of cooking is to prepare ingredient so we need to get this covered and we do this over the weekend.

This Ramadhan, is somehow not as meriah as the previous Ramadhan. Even Ilham and Baby felt the difference. This is the first Ramadhan Mira is at boarding school and not enjoying Ramadhan with us. Usually Mira is the most excited one when Ramadhan arrives. Mira started fasting at the age of 5, kira puasa separuh hari, then she continued at the age of 6 where she only missed 4 days. And from the age of 7 and beyond, Alhamdulilah, Mira managed to complete a whole month of fasting.

When she decided and accepted to be in boarding school, we did not think of the fact she will be away during Ramadhan ~~or else I would not let her go~~. As Ramadhan approaches, it striked us whether we are ready not having Mira during this holy month. Ready or not, we just have to face it.

Typically, Mira would be helping me to prepare Iftar. From the cooking to the setting up of table. Followed by the cleaning up later. Then, she will always be the first one to get ready for terawih. If it's not because of me, I think she would want to do the terawih all the way, instead of like her old Mama, who choose to do only 8 rakaat.

Of course, she will be the most excited one when it comes to Raya preparation. I do hope this year she gets to go back early for us to do Raya cookies together. She loves helping me to bake, her favourite of course, chocolate cookies.

I miss Mira. Today, during terawih when I turn to my right, unlike last year, I don't see Mira by my side. Baby looked at me and as if she understood and she said "Mama rindu kakak ye". I just smiled to that and she gave me a hug and said, "Baby pun rindu kakak"

Imagine next year if Ilham goes to boarding school, our home will be quieter and I know we will be lonelier. And 2 years after that, Baby may follow suit. Just thinking about this already make me feel so sad....

Perhaps to seriously consider having more kids....Maybe, Insyallah.....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Betrayal

2011-08-02T23:06:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulilah, dengan izin Allah, I managed to complete 3 nights of terawih and 2 days of fasting. I am so grateful Allah has given me the opportunity to complete both rituals and I pray I will continue to be in the best of health to go through Ramadhan.

Today, this 35 year old woman learned another lesson in life. You see, I have this bad habit (or good to some). That habit is giving my trust to people. The values that I have been taught since I was young is this concept, bersangka baik. I will always think of people as nice and good, with kind heart until it's proven otherwise. And many times, by the time I found out it's too late. Damage has been done and my reputation has been tarnished.

And today, this happened again. Some may say, "Liza, you never learned don't you. You keep allowing people to step all over you, making up stories and assumption about you without even fighting back. You never even bother to stand up for yourself and let people spread lies about you" And yes, I have been doing that. I just let people believe their own assumption and worse spread the assumptions to others, yang selalunya takde kena mengena pun

One of the things that bothers people so much, and most of the people who are bothered are not even related to this decision, is the choice I made in my career. Many people assumed I jumped ship because I don't want to susah senang bersama my team. I can shout to the world that is not true, but people can believe what they want to believe. What actually make me sad, people who knew why, people who I thought close to me, did not even make the effort to defend me. And I only got to know about all this today. Again, I chose to trust the wrong group of people.

I am sure most of us have been betrayed before. It can be in friendship, it can be in marriage, in family or in other forms of relationship. We may have been betrayed by people who we call leaders, we may have been betrayed by people whom we call friends. Betrayal is painful, it caused so much hurt, it caused so much pain and the wound would take a long time to heal. And the scar will remain.....

For what has happened today, I have forgiven all those who have made their own assumptions about me. I know what I am made of, and never will I betray anyone in order for me to get what I want. Never in my heart, have I ever had malice intention to anyone. Allah Maha Kaya and Insyallah, if it's my rezeki, no matter how others try to stop it, it will still be mine and if it's written that it's not mine, no matter how I pushed for it, it will not be mine, ever......

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Points to consider - Solat Sunat Terawih

2011-08-01T08:17:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulilah, I was privileged to be able to perform my first Solat Sunat Terawih last night. It was really a wonderful experience and I am praying I will be given the best of health so that I will be able to perform Terawih without fail.

In the spirit of sharing, there are few things that I observed while performing Terawih last night. Thought of blogging about it so that we consider our actions before doing anything :

1. Bringing small children for Terawih

I remembered my first Terawih at the mosque was when Baby was 4 years old. I chose a corner away from other jemaah and the corner should have ample space for Baby to sleep. The last thing I want is to disturb other jemaah wanting to perform their prayers. Prior to this, I only perform my Terawih at home. I wanted to go to the mosque cause I don't want Mira to be deprived from performing her Terawih at a mosque and I want to start her young. However, I feel, it's quite selfish for parents who brought along their small kids and when the kids started to cry or throw tantrums, they just ignored the kids and continue with their prayers. Somehow, it's effecting other jemaah to beribadat(kurang khusyuk) as well as causing so much discomfort to the kids. And there are some parents who have bigger kids, just letting the kids running around and making noises. I don't think this is appropriate, the least they could do is to reprimand their own kids, or better yet, let them stay at home. If the excuse is no one at home to take care of them, then don't perform Terawih at the mosque. The main intention is to get as much pahala as possible but ended up not getting any...

2. Imam is a leader, so please be considerate

I remembered when I was much younger and I followed my Arwah Wan for Terawih. She sometimes commented how some Imam recite the longer surah during Terawih and this may discourage others to keep on coming to the mosques. To her, Imam is responsible for his makmum and as a leader, Imam should be concerned with the level of khusyuk as well as the well being for the makmum. There are some makmum who are not in the best of health but still want to be part of Terawih, this will discourage them from coming back. It's best to recite Surah which are more familiar to the makmum so that they can recite this together and they can be more khusyuk. As for the longer surah, this can be covered during Tadarus sessions. My experience last night was somewhat effected as the Surahs recited were so long and there were times I even forgot which rakaat I was performing. Not to mention, the makcik next to me who were struggling to keep on standing

3. Moreh

After Terawih, typically some feast will be served and this is called Moreh. And Terawih is done in stages, some opt to stop at the 8th rakaat while some go all the way. For this who chose to perform only 8 rakaat and then proceed to enjoy the Moreh, please be more considerate not to make too much noise while chatting over food. As much as you haven't seen your friends for ages, mosques or surau may not be the best place to catch up. Try going to the nearest Mamak stall and take the catching up there. Also, please save some food and drinks for the rest of jemaah. Ramadhan is also the month of sharing, like the Malay saying goes ; Ingat2 orang belakang.

I hope this sharing is worth to be considered. Let's work together to make this Ramadhan a more harmonious month for everyone. My sincere apology if this entry offended anyone....never had the niat to do that.

Selamat Berpuasa.....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Ramadhan tradition

2011-07-29T18:44:00.000+08:00

I love Ramadhan. It's the best time to reflect and in a way take a break from things which are more keduniaan and give more focus on things to secure what will happen to us here after. We have created our very own family tradition in welcoming Ramadhan. Let's see what do we have :

1. Iftar
We always prepare the iftar menu in advance. Usually the kids would prepare their wishlists and we will then consolidate this to make one month menu. Based on this menu, on weekends I will prepare the ingredients. As normal days, I will store the ingredients in zip lock bags and labelled according to days. We will try our very best not to buy food unless we have to. But we won't waste our time to make kuih, that one we will buy what we feel like having.

2. Sahur
Sahur is more challenging than iftar. To make sahur dish is harder than iftar as we need to make it interesting enough for the kids to eat. Typically we will prepare soup, sardine, fried chicken and fried eggs. Kicap mesti ada and nasi panas! When the kids were younger, MBH and I only had Milo, nestum or bread. But with the kids, kena rajin bangun masak

3. Terawih
We try our very best not to miss terawih session. The tradition we had is to perform our terawih in different mosques during weekends. Last year, we went to Putrajaya and Bandar Baru Bangi. This year, we may want to consider to go to Masjid Negara or other big mosques. This is to make the kids excited to do their terawih

4. Iftar with family
Another tradition which has been going on for the last few years is to take the whole family for iftar, our treat. We will have 2 sessions, one is with MBH's parents and sibblings, and the other one is with my parents and sibblings. We believe family is a priority and before we start feeding others, feed the family first. We have yet to decide where this time around, usually we will go to different places.

This year, I want to start a new tradition with the kids, I want to do tadarus Al-Quran with the kids. Usually I do this alone. This year, to try this with kids. Having an ipad now makes it easier cause now I can read this anywhere.

I would like to wish Selamat Menyambut Ramadhan to all my friends and readers. Moga Ramadhan tahun ini lebih baik dari Ramadhan yang sebelumnya, Insyallah....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Amanah ~ my personal thoughts on the concept

2011-07-22T20:30:00.000+08:00

I remembered when Ilham was about to be circumcised. MBH had a conversation with him by informing him this ritual comes with responsibilities. Yes, for our convenience, we can choose to circumcise him when he wss a baby but we decided to perform this when he is big enough to understand the whoe thing about entering adulthood....

MBH shared with him the concept of amanah. How we are created in this world with a reason. There are also reasons why we are born the way we are. Why we are second child instead of first, why we are born in the family we are with now and the lists went on and one. And then MBH started to elaborate on the amanah concept.

When we were still a child, our amanah was to learn and absorb as much knowledge as possible. When we entered school years up to the day we graduate from universities, our amanah was to study and do our best. That's the amanah given to us by our parents. My heart cringed knowing I did betray some of the amanah by skipping classes....those were the days, zaman jahiliah ler katakan. Nonetheless, despite giving excuses biasalah zaman muda does make what I did as the right thing to do.

Then we start working. And with the monthly salary we earned, comes the amanah to perform our best in whatever we do. Our amanah is to fulfill our responsibilities, the reason why we are getting paid. My arwah often told me, biar kita keja kuat lebih dari pendapatan dari keje kurang dari pendapatan. Takut rezeki tak halal and then bagi anak2 makan from the rezeki.....this scary thoughts always linger in my mind everytime I have this bad nawaitu not to work, knowing the effect is not only on me, also to my kids....

The amanah don't stop. We get married, and our amanah has expanded to our other half. Of course, the other amanah which we carried like the one to our parents, sibblings, employers and many other stakeholders don't stop. Safe to say, the older we get, the more amanah we habe to carry.

We are fortunate to be the chosen one to become parents. That increase our amanah even more. Now we are responsible for our own zuriat. This amanah is to Allah, He is the one who reward us with the anugerah. Thinking about it send the chill down my spine, how big the responsibility is. We are responsible to guide and love this kids....I am now asking myself, have I done well with this particular amanah...

Let's not discount the other amanah we have. Amanah towards our friends, our colleagues, and if we are a leader, the amanah is much heavier, towards the people we are supposed to lead. If our basic and fundamental in life is no right especially on the elements mentioned above, how can we be good in being a leader. How can we claim we are delivering the amanah when we know we have wronged people we are supposed to take care of. And how can we be proud getting the perks given to those in leadership positions when we clearly did not fulfill our amanah to our subordinates.

Our amanah to our friends, this include menjaga aib, advising them when you know they did something wrong rather than bitching about them to others. Our amanah to our sahabat in keeping their secrets. Not making up stories about them, not accusing them of doing something you are not even sure they did...Let's be honest, are we confident we have performed this amanah.

Umat akhir zaman and this can be seen by the way we carry our amanah. Dunia hanya sementara....akhirat menanti dan kekal abadi...May Allah have mercy on us...Amin....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Invisible sign of aging

2011-07-21T21:58:00.000+08:00

I remembered a couple of years ago when there was this young colleague of mine was trying to guess my age. I was only 31 at that time and when he said I look 35, I was really upset and sad and worried and sad. How come! I could not look older than my real age!!

That was when I started to purchased all kinds of creams. To be honest, I never use any moisturiser, toner or related cream. I only started use the real cleanser 2 years after I got married. Before that, I only use the soap, the same bar soap I use to bath. Needless to say, taking care of my skin was never a priority back then.

After getting such remarks, I went down to Isetan where I purchased my first setmof beauty stuff. I got this cleaner, toner, eye cream, moisturiser....you name it. All of a sudden, aging was something I fear off....

And today, I discovered something about myself. At the age of 35, I know I am going through the real aging process. Those who knows me would acknowledge I am not the most patient person they know. I am hard headed, opinionated, outspoken and likes to argue. Now you know why I am hated by some people. However, those who really knows me would know " dalam hati ada taman der". Rest assured, never do I ever wanted or even have any malice intention to anyone no matter how I hate them.

Today, I received an email which typically, I would flip after getting such emails. I would usually put my guard up and start to be defensive. I may replied the email in a nasty manners. Instead, I choose not to do that. I went over to my colleague and explained to her what really happened. I choose to walk over to her room and speak to her face to face. It's important for my own team to understand the situation. And then I responded to the email by apologising and thanking them for their feedback which will be used to improve the process. It was really easy, and then I moved on and feeling really happy about it.

Yes, wrinkles have started to appear all over my face. Fine lines, cheek getting saggy, eyebags look like a sandbag...I may be able to slow down the visible aging process with the help from all types of beauty product. But, somehow, I am not bothered that much. I want to grow old not feeling grumpy and bitter and offending everyone I know. I want to grow old gracefully and making lots and lots of friends along the way.

We will all die one day. Just imagine, if we are hated so much, how many saf would there be for people to conduct our solat jenazah and how many Al-Fatihah will we get....

And I end this entry with....in time of crisis, that's when you know who you real friends are....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

After 14 years.....

2011-07-19T21:37:00.000+08:00

It is a known fact to some, I am a manja mengada wife who just love to cling to my better half. Despite staying under the same roof, and seeing each other everyday, there are times I miss my better half so much. Today, while I was busy coordinating an event that will happen next week, I have this sudden I-miss-my-husband feeling. Yup, as I mentioned earlier, I am a mengada wife.

When I think about it, yes, many people don't understand the relationship I have with my better half. To share with you, after 14 years, this are the things I still do on daily basis unless : I'm or he is away, I'm sick or we are out the whole day.

- I prepare his full clothes everyday. That includes his shirt, pants, undergarments and socks. When I travel, I will prepare this based on the days I am expected to be away. And to be honest, I enjoy doing this. It's like a fashion game, watching what shirt with which pants (sometime I went overboard and match the undies too)

- I make drinks for MBH every night. I will always ask him, "abg nak minum apa malam ni" to make sure I make him the drinks he feels like having. Typically it's teh tarik or nescafe tarik

- I salam cium tangan everytime we go our separate ways whether me going to work, or when MBH goes out without me. It's a habit and sometimes dia nak pergi kedai pun terhulur tangan nak salam. Sangat poyo saya ini!

- I ask for his consent before doing anything. Like if I plan to have lunch out of my working place or if I have lunch appointment with the opposite sex (so that should I bump into someone he knows, no fitnah can be created) and if I were to buy something out of the ordinary. And yes, I do ask for his ok (that includes the Anya bag under my table now)

- MBH is also my fashion consultant. I am usually not comfortable to buy clothes without his presence. He will be the one giving me the most honest opinion like what looks good on people, not necessarily looks good on me. And yes, that applies to the clothes on the mannequin!

- the best thing is after 14 years of marriage, he still holds my hands everytime we walk, he still holds me tight whenever he gets the chance to. Just like the he did when we just got married....he is a man who is not afraid to show his affection, even in public...

To me, not only I love my better half so much, but to me what matters more is, I am still very much in love with him....And I am so blessed to have him in my life....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

If you really wanna know - my very own FAQs

2011-07-18T21:06:00.000+08:00

I am no celebrity, not even close to being famous. But some how off late, some people are just so curIous with the things I do. Some curiously asked directly to me while others curious and start to doubt whether I am the real thing. Well, being a very helpful, informative and friendly person I am, I thought it will help my "fans" out there to get answers to questions about me which they have always been wondering. This FAQs can be a dynamic one depending on the interests of the viewers. As normal simple economy principle, when there's demand, we need to supplylah!

On my marriage life

Question : She always state in her FB, she is always happy. Ye ke?
Answer : 98% of the time, yes, I am genuinely happy. Of course, nothing is perfect in this world so there are time, I am not too happy. It maybe due to it's the time of the month, or due to me just being cranky cause I'm tired or like other married couples, we just fight. It may be due to silly reason or maybe due to external factors. Nothing serious pun, tak gaduh tak hip hop lah!

Question : Whylah her husband sends he to work everyday, tak jauh ke?
Answer : I don't know, MBH just loves to send and pick me up. Yes, the distance is quite significant, Bangi-KLCC-Subang Jaya-KLCC-Bangi. But, he insisted as he just loves to turn to his left and having me by his side. Isn't he is just the sweetest man....

Question : Anak tiga je ke, takde ke nak anak lagi
Answer : there are 2 versions of answers to this question ; polite version - belum ada rezeki. Not so polite version : aku nak mengandung ke tak pun korang susah ke?

Question : Emo lah dia nie. Status FB asik emo je. Takkan anak dah besar pun nak emo gak
Answer : Do you know FB has the options to hide people you don't want to see if you think their updates bother you so much. Or you can take the drastic way, delete je terus! If you are still stuck, please do not hesitate to call me, I can teach you step by step with demo if necessary

Question : dia senanglah, anak2 dah besar2. Lain lah aku anak kecik
Answer : this may surprise you, but before my kids are as big as they are now, they were small like your kids. You will know what I'm talking about in few years time when your kids are bigger. Then you are entitle to say senang ke tidak bila anak2 dah besar. As for now, diam lebih baik.

That's all for now. If I see the need to add more questions, I will do so. I do hope this FAQs shed some light to the curious people out there. And for those who terasa...sssoorrr...ops, why should I say sorry, this after all is my blog :)

New moto in my life - to focus on things that matters....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Question :

As always, I look forward to Ramadhan

2011-07-17T22:37:00.000+08:00

I love Ramadhan. I love everything about Ramadhan. I love fasting, I love performing tarawih and I love tadarus Al-Quran (and if I may add, this made easy with an ipad)However, Ramadhan is also a great challenge to me to coordinate the daily routine in making sure I brace the traffic and able to come home in time to cook iftar.

So, to ensure things go smoothly, planning is very important. I usually start 2 weeks ahead of Ramadhan by doing the menu for the whole of Ramadhan. Typically, Ramadhan or not, weekends would be the time I prepare for the week's ingredients for cooking. I will blend the chilli, shallots, garlics and other needed stuff. Zip lock plastic would be very useful in this kind of situation. I would label the zip lock according to the days Monday, Tuesday and so on. So all vegetables and other ingredients are stored in the zip lock and stored in the fridge. This will save time to think what to cook and later to prepare for the ingredients.

One more important aspect is to get home time and this also need strategy. Traffic usually would not be too kind and I usually avoid driving in and out of KL. Structuring for meetings and schedulings help to ensure I reach home on time. And in Ramadhan, I would usually avoid having iftar outside. Too crowded and really over priced! I also don't like to attend buka puasa functions as I prefer to have iftar with the kids. So, if you all ajak, and I can't go, paham2 jelah yer

Anyway, this Ramadhan would be different as this would be the first Ramadhan Mira in boarding. Even thinking about it make me sad, not having her during iftar and sahur....it will not be the same. Not having her telling me what she wants to eat or helping me in the kitchen to prepare for food....lain sungguh....Sigh.....

Semoga Ramadhan tahun ini membawa keberkatan dan keinsafan kepada kita semua...Insyallah...

Signin off,

liza365.blogspot.com

One Liverpool dream down, one more to go

2011-07-17T00:10:00.000+08:00

There are 2 things people should be loyal to (this is of course, to be loyal to Allah first and again this is my personal opinion, after all, this is my blog). One is to be loyal to your family and another one is to be loyal only to 1 football club (not including your home country team which is by the way is not a club). And yes, I have been loyal to one for the longest time, that is my loyalty to Liverpool!!!

I have been with Liverpool since I am 12. I still remember when I was 14, I was with my family for a holiday in UK and my dad took me to watch Liverpool played in Wembley. That was on of the happiest moment in my life. And after that I secretly made this wish that one day I will again watch another Liverpool match and one day, I will be able to watch Liverpool match in Anfield. And I held on to that dream for quite some time. Both time and financial situation has yet to be on myside.

Over the years, the possibility for Liverpool to come and play in Malaysia was close to none. Due to the team sponsor was a beer company, not only they will not be able to come and play in my country, I can't even own an original Liverpool jersey. It's so easy to detect who wear the imitation jersey, just see whether the sponsor name is indicated on the jersey. Since I am not into fake stuff, I decided not to own one.

The moment Liverpool announce their new sponsor, I was so excited and quickly went online to make purchases. And Alhamdulilah, 2011 is a good Liverpool year me. I got to visit Anfield while I was in UK for work, did not get to watch any matches though but just being able to see Anfield already made me so happy. And then, I got the news about Liverpool coming to Malaysia. Without any hesitation, I asked for a friend's help to get the tickets. Bought 7 for the whole family including mom and dad.

And today, being the usual emotional me, I was overwhelmed by the fact I am watching Liverpool in action. Of course, they are playing against my country, but having to watch all this live is just awesomely amazing. I was disappointed though as the first half and the first 20 minutes of the second half was pretty boring. Luckily, the actions finally started the last 25 minutes towards the end of the game.

I am also happy Malaysia played a good game as well despite losing 3 to 6. I can see good future for our country's team. Yes, I sincerely do...

Now, to pursue my next dream, that is to watch Liverpool match in Liverpool home ground, be it Anfield or the new speculated stadium. Sure, I have been teased, at times insulted and made fun of, but my loyalty to Liverpool has not moved even an inch. To me, that's the spirit of the game by staying true to the team you support!

Well, now have to really cepat2 kumpul duit to make the dream a reality! Insyallah, May next year if everything goes according to plans....tak sabar dah nie!!

You'll Never Walk Alone

When you walk through the storm
Hold your head up high
And don't be afraid of the dark
At the end of the storm
There's a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of the lark

Walk on, through the wind
Walk on, through the rain
Though your dreams be tossed and blown
Walk on, walk on, with hope in your heart
And you'll never walk alone
You'll never walk alone

Walk on, walk on, with hope in your heart
And you'll never walk alone
You'Sll never walk alone

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

We will all die one day

2011-07-14T22:48:00.000+08:00

Such a strong topic huh? Well, it's notnan unknown truth. We will all die one day. Tak cepat sesaat, tak lambat sesaat. That has always been the promise made to all of Allah's creation

Today, I experienced yet another death news. A good of friend of mine lost her mom to cancer. For nearly a year her mom fought the battle against the killer disease and Allah has decided it's time for her to meet her creator. And yes, our turn will come one day.

Today, I understand the meaning of friendship. Today, I know my priority. I left everything, and rushed to see my friend. I know I can't do much, I can only be there to hug and tell her how sorry I am for her loss. And to tell her, Allah knows best and ecerything happens for a reason and ada hikmah disebalik kejadian.

I am a great believer of what you give, you will definitely get back. So, if you give good, you'll get good in return. And vice versa, you do bad to others, you will one day pay the price.

I know I am not perfect. I know I have done wrong things in my life, some I have paid the price. But. Don't you think for people to seek forgiveness they need to be informed they have done something wrong. This will give them the opportunity to seek forgiveness. Would you want to see people suffer and die with all the sins of not being forgiven for something they don't even know they did something wrong. I know I won't

So, today, I have forgiven all who have wronged me. And I would seek forgiveness to everyone whom I have wronged, whether I realise it or not, or whether it's intentional or not. I am sorry and It's never my nawaitu to hurt anyone.

Back to my friend's mom, she passed away peacefully and her face was like smiling. She got so many people to be part of her solat jenazah. So, I do hope you can do me a favour and forgive me. For all you know, I may go to sleep tonight and may not wake up tomorrow..

I too want to die peacefully...with a smiley face...Insyallah..

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

I live a fairytale life

2011-07-12T20:56:00.000+08:00

I must admit, I am an emotional person. The way I express myself has always been stronger than most people. When I love someone or something, I will show it. When I hate(ok, hate is a strong word so let's use dislike) dislike something, I will show it. Yes, I am transparent and very bad at hiding my feelings. Well, that's just me.

When I say I am happy, I mean it. Whether I put this in my FB status, twitter or when I blog about it, many people may find it hard to believe but yes, what I state is exactly how I feel. Acting and pretending has never been my forte.

So when today, one of my friends asked via twitter an open question whether we, married couple show our lovey dovey feelings in front of others and this include our kids and inlaws. And without hesitation I answered YES! And that is the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

You see, when I reflect, I do live a fairytale life. How many people can really be themselves in front of their other half. Really themselves. I can and I am very much comfortable with this. I can sit whichever way I want, I can eat like a *** without shame in front of MBH and i can even fart or burp without having to feel all shy over it. That has been the way ever since we dated (and yet he still wants to marry me....hmmmm....)

MBH is my best friend and I am so glad I married my best friend. He takes care of me, he listens, he guides me when I am lost, he tells me the truth when others just want to so called takes care of my feelings, he tolerates my bad habits and he is the best shopping buddy. To me, he is the best husband anyone could ever wish for (and he is mine!!!!)

Like yesterday, I was not in stable condition. It was not a good day and I was not feeling that good. Driving to Kuala Klawang did not make it better. So, when he got home, he saw how tired I was. And without even thinking how tired he was as he just came beck from work, he made me a burger and a cup of nescafe when I told him I haven't eaten my dinner. And you know what,he haven't eaten his either. As always, he put my needs before his.

Sometimes people wonder why can't I drive to work by myself and why do I cause such inconvenience to MBH by having to send me to work most of the time. I do drive but not that frequent and you know why? Cause he said he just enjoys my company and having me by his side while he drives me to work makes him happy. When he got me a car for my birthday, he some how knows the time we spend together will be more limited. He said, at least both of us can have a solid 1.5 hour per day talking without interruption from the kids. And yes, this has been consistent for the last 14 years of our marriage.

I do live a fairytale life. I have this handsome and charming prince who swore we will be together and will takes care of me, hingga akhir hayat. A man who cuddles me to sleep, calls me at work just because he misses hearing my voice, send me sweet bb messages and respects the choices I made in life. And most importantly, a wonderful father to my 3 kids.

And while others labelled me as an emotional person, he said I am a person full of passion in everything that I do, cares for people around me, always putting the needs of others before mine and that is why he loves me so much.

Yes, I do live a fairytale life...and Insyallah, for the rest of my life....Amin....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

And my better half will always be here

2011-07-11T22:30:00.000+08:00

I did one unprecendented move today, I deactivated my Facebook. MBH was quite surprise as he knows how much I love my FB. So, when I told him what I did, obviously he will ask me, what happened?

I told him I need a break from all this. I have this one weakness. I always thought people is like me. You see, I enjoy reading my FB friends status updates, I love viewing their photos and I love reading their stories. I feel I am with them when they are upset and enjoy their joy when they are on top of the world.

But not many people is like me. People judge, yes, they do. Sometimes one phrase from a song can be considered as being emotional, putting hadith or ayat quran, people will think saja nak tunjuk alim, or sharing how happy you are with your family is something some people don't believe and will say, ye ke they all bahagia camtu

Well, I am happy. What I share in my FB is my real life. How I feel. The joy, the sorrow, the pain, the laughters, the tears. I am real, this is the real me. No act, no faking! If I disagree, I will say so. If I support, I will say so as well. I may not agree with view of others but it's their rights to have the view. Unlike some people, I am not God so I don't pretend to be one.

Yes, I love my FB but I control my FB, not vice versa. I can start when I want, I can also stop when I want...Takde susah mana pun!

And I have this man who have been with me for the last 17 years. My best friend and the one I turn to when I need advise, guidance or sometimes, just to hear me out. And no, I don't need FB that much. Cause I have him, my better half....

And today I realise, my life is real. Whether people to choose to believe it or not, that's their choice.

Come to think of it, maybe their life isn't, that's why they thought others are fake too! Kesian....

Signing off,
liza365.blogspot.com

Just because we choose not to be part of this entitle us to be mean!

2011-07-09T23:42:00.000+08:00

Before I start, let me just say this is not about politics. I hate politics, be it country's politics, office politics or any type of politics. Even the word politics send a chill down my spine.

To me, politics can make people blind, deaf and mute all at the same time. It csn make people friends or enemies to each other. It can help to achieve something or it can kill what has been achieved. Yup, politics can be very dirty if the players are dirty.

The whole country knows what happened today. Or perhaps the whole world. And how chaotic life was with all the Roadblocks and bad traffic everywhere. Some blamed this on the organisor of the event, while others blamed the police. Me? I dont blame anyone, I simply think this is due to paranoia. But then again, that's just me.

I am not a supporter of either party. My principle has always been, not everything the government does is bad and not everything the opposition says is negative. There has to be the right balance for both, if only people are bothered to look deep.

However, I just can't help to feel to upset over some remarks made over the whole situation. From what I understand, Bersih is not a political movement though there are people who wanted o make it political. And that goes to both sides, government and opposition. The plight made by Bersih to me is fair request and can be resolved should everyone just sit down and discuss to find the amicable solution.

I am no promoter of violence. Bur to me, some people are just heartless! How can you say "padam muka", serves you right and one comment I read indicated how this certain individual have a good time seeing the FRU shooting the water cannon to the so callec protestors. Some even said they deserve to be beaten or deserve the tear gas. What has our world come to!

Apart from people who are there for political mileage, do you personally know why the other thousands of people choose to join the rally. Don't tell me yo are naive enough to think because all this thousands of people are influenced to be part of this fiasco. Who are we to say that? Who are we to assume they are all the strong supporters of the oppositions.

For all you know, some may have gone through or still is going through difficult stages in life. While we are here able to provide a good living to our kids, choosing the toys we want from Toy R Us, planning to bring them to Disneyland, there are others who struggle to even send their kids to school, or even to bring food to the table. Try saying padan muka to that.

Have you been in situation where your child is very ill and you are helpless and just can sit there and watch the child die simply because you can't afford to provide medical treatment to save his or her life. News flash! Many out there are having this problem. So, try telling them to "bersyukur" while you are living in a big house and get to eat more than 3 meals per day.

You don't know why they are there. You don't know their frustration. You don't know they also want their voice to be heard. Is it their fault when this started as a non political event turned into something like what happened today.

I am happy and grateful with everything that I have therefore I choose not to be part of the rally. When the time comes for me to vote, I will exercise my right to choose the voice to represent me. I have no major qualms in life (of course, I wish for bigger house, car yada yada yada)but that does not give me the right to insult people who choose to be part of the rally. And to those who brought kids with them and got arrested, how sure are you they are there for the protest. For all you know, they just happen to walk pass the area with their kids and that road has been the road they have been using for many many years. See, now quick we are to pass judgement as if we know everything about people's life.

My dad always tell me, some people were born with comfortable life that they don't know how to appreciate let alone empathise with others. He always told me "tak semua org lahir trus dapat naik mercedes". He was giving me this reminder so I am careful with the way I raise my kids. Jangan sampai one day Allah uji by taking away everything baru nak insaf.

So, if you are like me who choose not to attend, that is our choice. But to those who choose to attend, the choice is theirs. Who are we to say their choice is wrong. We don't even know them! Stop being judgemental will you!

And by the way, undi adalah rahsia (at least I hope it's still is) and I can't wait to exercise my right when the time comes!

To one of the participant who passed away during the rally, Al-Fatihah and I do hope his death will not be politicised.

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

The moment your life turn 360 degrees

2011-07-07T09:01:00.000+08:00

There will be moments in life when you need to make decisions. Some concerning your personal life like whether you should get married or whether you should stop seeing this guy, some concerning financial like whether you should get that house or whether you should pay off your credit card and live without one. Some not so critical (may be critical to some) like whether I should wear this shoes with that dress (notice I mentioned the word I in this phrase). Of course, some about career choices, whether to go along Path A, or to reroute to Path B or quit all together.

But to me, so far in my life, the toughest decision I have to make has to be combination of both career and my kids. You see, the moment I get married, my life shift by 180 degrees. Some of my routines before I tied the knot may not be applicable anymore while there are additional routines that I will need to observe. Also, the fact that when I got married, not only I have the title wife added to my job desription, also daughter in law, sister in law and have more aunties and uncles. Sometimes more that I could ever imagine (or handled, you choose!)

3rd April 1998 was the date my life shifted 360 degrees. Within split second, I hold another title, a mom. I am officially responsible for another life. I am no longer for myself (and MBH too) but I belong to this tiny thing whom I call Mira. And yes, my life did turn 360 degrees.

Before, all decisions I made would be those that suit me well. What fits me, that will be the direction I take. I am free to go anywhere at anytime. I only need to think about what I wear, what I eat, what I want to buy...yada yada yada. Everything is about me me me and me!

After becoming a mom, everything is about the kids. How I spend my time, where I work, how I utilise my income, my traveling plans even down to the place I eat, my kids would be the main decision factor. And I enjoy having someone I can take care off, someone I can pour the love, someone I look forward to come home to, and someone who makes me feel strong to get through my days no matter how bad and suck things are. I know, I am doing all this for the 4 creatures I love the most.......

And now I am yet again reaching another cross road. Another decision that need to be made. Another critical path I need to choose. I have listed both pros and cons. I have factored how the decisions are going to effect the kids. So, now time to start with istikharah for guidance from Allah......Insyallah, I will make decisions which suits my family and I......

I need to remind myself, whatever decisions I am about to make.......how will this impact the kids.......

That's what matters!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Liza on the map ~ Langkawi, we will come back for more!

2011-07-05T21:00:00.000+08:00

*This trip was back in March and only managed to blog about it 4 months after that. Better late than never!*

I love traveling. When I was younger (not too long ago), I used to travel to many places with my family. I love visiting other countries, learning their culture and of course, enjoying their food!

When I got married and started to have kids, traveling was never an option. With very limited budget, we did not get to go anywhere. However, the job scope given by my previous company involved traveling. This was the reason why the kids get to stay at hotels and enjoy the pool while Mama has to work. Of course, work travel is never fun!

When we know we can afford to travel, typically we will start planning for the year's travel by the 3rd quarter of the previous year. Eg, traveling plans for 2011 were made back in September 2010. Tickets were usually purchased during Matta fair or some crazy deals offered by MAS or AirAsia. So for 2011, we have marked Langkawi, Bandung, Beijing and Goldcoast as the places to look out for.

I was lucky as I did not purchased the Langkawi tickets early. There were rumours going around my company's family day will be in Langkawi. I was keeping my fingers crossed and the moment it was announced, I quickly went to all airlines to make price comparisons and managed to find good deals by MAS. Yeah! We are going to Langkawi!!!!

MBH and the kids have never been to Langkawi. I've been there couple of times and mostly due to work. So, knowing the whole family gets to go to Langkawi excite me.

When traveling with kids, I will make sure I plan carefully. Where to go, transportation, where to eat, where to shop are all very important. Considering we have very limited time there (3 days 2 nights are too short for Langkawi!) we really have to plan carefully.

One thing about the kids, when we are about to travel, to wake them up in the morning is so easy. One touch using my finger tip is all it needs. As opposed to all the screaming, yelling, banging and other physical movements to get them ready for school.

Fast forward, we arrived in Langkawi. I negotiated with the kids to allow me do my thing first, that is to purchased pinggans mangkuks. No, I am not a pinggans mangkuks freak! Fact ~ do you know I have never purchased any dining sets or yang sewaktu dengannya. The one I have at home is either our wedding gifts or some freebies we got when we buy washing detergent. Sad huh? So, sempatlah I bought penuh satu boot kereta.

Next, we checked in and decided to just chill in the hotel room. Next was the cable car ride. And let me tell, I don't know why I agree to this. No, I am not afraid of heights. I am just afraid of being at high places where only wires are the only thing to keep me from crashing down!. I keep on imagining the wire would snap and we will all fall! *paranoid giler*. But, when we reached the top, the view is to die for (so did the trip down, I nearly died and closed my eyes ALL the time!)

The next day was the best. We woke up early and took the island hopping package. We got to go to Tasik Dayang Bunting, feeding the eagle and the kids had their first snorkeling experience at some pulau (sorrylah, forgot the name). As this was our first time, we didn't bring any swimming attire (thanks to the tour agent for not telling us pfftrtt). The kids ended swimming and snorkeling wearing their jeans. And so did MBH. Me? I'd rather stay dry.

By the time we ended our tour, the kids were exhausted. We had late lunch and then went back to hotel. One of the thing we decided was not to visit any historical places. We can always do that next time. The remaining time was occupied with just pusing2 around town, stopping for meals (laksa and cendol are mandatory!) and just chilling enjoying each others company. Of course we went to Dataran Lang, the trip to Langkawi will not be complete if we don't go there.

Yes, it was a total 3 days 2 nights of quality time with the kids. I had some alone time with MBH as well, watching the sun set before the kids woke up...And all that is very necessary as few days after that, I went away to UK for 2 weeks....

What happened in UK? Next entry yer...(which I don't know when)

We enjoyed Langkawi and we will definitely be back!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

This has always been my life

2011-07-04T21:05:00.000+08:00

Ever since I had Mira, my life has never been the same, and I mean it in a very good way. Whatever plans MBH and I had, will always revolve around the kids. I can safely and confidently say, we brought up all our 3 kids on our own. We never had a maid (not sure of the future though, tak baik cakap besar), we didn't get that much support from our parents not that they didn't want to help but my parents were still working when the kids were smaller (they retired only when Baby was 5) while my inlaws have their own business which make it difficult for them to come over and help out.

I can tell you from experience, having 3 kids with age gap on average a year and a half apart is not easy. Alot of planning need to be made. What time to leave the house, preparing their stuff for nursery the night before, delegating tasks between MBH and I to make sure we get to work on time (and proud to say, while I was with my previous employer, I was never late for work). Not forgetting when we plan to take the kids out, we do our research really well. If we choose to eat out, we make sure we go to not so crowded place, has baby chairs (we usually need 3!), and that place has kids meals. We avoid shopping malls, I usually buy my groceries during lunch hour. If we were to take the kids to the mall, we will go very early and leave before the lunch crowd arrive. Alhamdulilah, despite the kelam kabutness, being tired and alot of headache, we managed things pretty well.

And just when we thought it will be easier as they grow up, we are so wrong! The moment they start schooling, coordination becomes tougher. Need to make sure they arrive at school safely and later arrive back at the transit safely before leaving for sekolah agama. And as they grow up, their demands are getting difficult to meet. They need more of our time, they want to tell what happpened at school, they want us to know when they are upset and they want us to be there during their joyful moment. Again, Alhamdulilah, we have never missed any sports day, report card day, school concert, hari kantin and many other events involving the kids. Yes, they have always been our priority.

So, when they are not around, I missed taking care of them. And I know MBH misses that too. We just missed the hecticeness, we miss the noises and we miss preparing things for them. I must say, deep down inside after all the yelling and screaming and getting angry cause they just took their own sweet time getting ready for school causing us to be late for work, we need them around us to keep us sane! Funny huh!

And today, the toughest thing in parenting (as at todate) happened to us. Ilham, for the first time, did not do too well in both his primary and religious school. His grades where never this bad. I was not prepared for this and don't know how to react. MBH was worse, he was so disappointed and totally upset. I know if I don't control him, he will definitely yell at Ilham.

When we reached home, I asked Ilham to go to his room and stay there until we call him. MBH and I had a chat and I told him not to be too hard on him. Actually, I felt guilty. When he sat for this exam, I was away due to work commitment. MBH told me, Ilham needs to take accountability of his own actions, and I agreed. Just that, I know we could handle this better.

That is when we called him and had a long chat. Somehow I know, he just wanted attention. Suddenly, I remembered last week while I was busy preparing for a big event which caused me to come home late, Ilham did call me several time. He was asking what time will I be home, and that he missed our used to be usual badminton games and having tea at our small garden. I was too busy to even reacted to that and just say we will do that soon, when I'm not busy.

Maybe it's his way of trying to get my attention. And I heard him loud and clear. I got side tracked and I forgot my priority. I forgot why am I working so hard. And it's all for this 3 babies whom I love so much!

And today, I played badminton with him. And I had tea (nescafe actually) at our small garden. And I can really see how happy he is. He promised he will work hard and he promised he will do better. While I promised I will be a better mom......

I thank Allah for the wake up call. I thank Allah for opening my eyes. With current social situation, he may turn to someone else and that someone may not be a good influence to him. And Alhamdulilah, I got this wake up call before it's too late.

I pray for nothing but the best for him. I love all my 3 babies so much and nothing would ever be more important that that!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

I'm hopeless when it comes to technology and here are the evidence

2011-06-28T22:22:00.000+08:00

Short entry to proof how I am totally hopeless when it comes to technology. Yes, you heard it, technology is never my thing!

1. I have never been to Low Yatt. Yes, never! And to be honest, I don't even know where Low Yatt is

2. I am very late is keeping up with the e thing. I started my blog only in 2007, own FB in 2009 and started tweeting only late 2010. While everyone is so ahead, I just discovere this social platform

3. I hate to change gadgets especially mobile. There was this one time when I was "instructed" to change my berry after a promotion exercise, kira kena upgradelah. Instead of getting all excited, I was negotiating with my IT colleagues to allow me to use my old berry and I will never tell a single soul. Of course, still have to change and it took me 2 weeks to familiarise with the new one

4. I don't know the fancy stuff laptop can do. As long as I can shutdown and restart the next day, I am already happy

5. While people have their smart phones and tabulets, I just had my ipad2 today. Never had ipad before, or ipod, iphone or whatever i-thing. i-idiot, know a few of those (ada kene mengena ke)

6. If I was asked to change, upload or even removed something from any of my gadgets, I would totally become clueless. Memang saya tak reti!

7. Had my first GPS last month. Itu pun sebab nak pegi holiday to Terengganu. And I was struggling to even use this simple gadget.

I can name more, but now I am too sleepy to type. Or maybe that's just another sign, that technology is never my thing!

Nite nite while I sleep sambil peluk ipad2!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Sharing my traveling experience

2011-06-27T21:52:00.001+08:00

I can't believe the first half of 2011 is gone. Time flies so fast, too fast, even faster than expected. As I reflect, this 6 months have been a colourful one, many things which I have never expect I do, somehow I did. So many things going on, nevertheless, I felt time was not slowing down even for one second

I have travelled quite a bit starting from March to June. Some for work, some for leisure. I have been meaning to blog about my travel experience, never get the chance to do that just yet. I am making it a point to eventually do that, otherwise it is such a shame for all this experience not documented. Yup, I got pictures stored in my FB and as much as some people said picture worth a thousand words, I still think it is pretty important to put stories to the picture. I don't know how long I will live and I don't want to die without sharing my travel experience.

In this entry, I will share the summary of the places I was privileged to experience. Details of the places will be shared in future entries :

March

My family and I went to Langkawi together for the first time. I have been to Langkawi a number of times before this but mostly it was for work and never really for the chance to enjoy Langkawi. So, this round, we managed to explore the beauty of Langkawi apart from doing one of my favourite past time ; shopping ler...

March was also the month I went to UK for work. I got to go to Oxford, Cambridge, London, Manchester, Warwick and drop by Anfield for obvious reasons. Why was I in UK. Later I story you. Safe to say, I can seriously imagine myself living in Oxford....Love that place!

May

I went for my very first honeymoon with MBH and I we decided to choose Bandung as the selected destination. It was a wonderful experience for both of us. Some of the sightings humbled us, seeing how difficult life is in other countries. And my favourite place was in Kg Daun where we enjoyed our lunch and we spent 3 hours day mesmerised by the nature. Before we left, we have already made plans to come again, this time with the kids

Flying nearly 24 hours across continents was not something I enjoyed doing, but duty calls. I was chosen to represent my company and visit US. I was all over the States, started my journey in New York, Chicago, San Fransisco, Los Angeles, back to Chicago, Boston and then ended with New York. It was an eye opening experience for me, meeting many people and learning from them. And next time, if I am needed to go again, at least now I know the do's and don'ts

June

A week after I came back from US, I was off to Terengganu, this time for holiday. I have always wanted to bring my inlaws for a holiday and we decided to choose Terengganu. We spent 3 days there and I enjoyed myself being surrounded by my family despite I was really tired from all the travelling. But, I can say it was all worth it.

Where next? I don't know. In my line of work, I just need to be prepared. And Insyallah, I will cherish all this experience and I know not many people get the honour to do what I do.

Look out for the next entry, Langkawi in the eyes of Liza.

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

I never thought I learned so much

2011-06-26T21:54:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulilah......

That's how I want to start this entry. This past one week has been very taxing. Preparing for a big event which is actually I am so excited about considering doing event has always been my passion. My involvement in this one is not that big, just supporting a very good friend. And to be bluntly honest, if it's not for her, I am not that keen to be involved as I know I will and may get hurt along the way.

I never thought this event tought me alot of things. I learned.......

It tought me to be really sincere in what I do. I love my job and I intend to continue loving it. Despite how horrible people treated me, how they don't appreciate what I did or some individuals tought I have not done enough, I had a good time as I know I am sincere in helping a friend who needed my help. And that's the only thing that matters and that has always been my niat from the very beginning
I learned and experienced how people crack under pressure. How their choice of words or their actions hurt others, how they "promote" totally the opposite of teamwork, and how people tried to gain support by telling bad things about others. Yup, just like the current political scenes.
My better half told me how lucky I am. How Allah loves me by showing me who my real friends are. By showing me who are actually sincere and who are there just to see me fail and fall. And it's ok if some choose to delete me from their FB. The number of friends in FB are not really a reflection who I am as an individual. It never was, and it will never be
Hearing people talking about me (yes, literally talking about me, of course they did not know I can hear them or maybe they do?) was so painful but when I think harder, Alhamdulilah, at least I get to hear it myself and know for a fact how people can automatically believe what they hear without even bothered asking the other side of story. And when I think harder, I know Allah is trying to protect me from this individuals
While others struggle to find the right man, I have been married to one for the last 14 years. He has always been my pillar and picking me up when I am down, giving me the strength to carry on and listening to my whinning and emotional breakdown. While others trying to find a man who is willing to be with them through thick and thin, I am married to my very best friend. And this week, as always, he has been very patient and understand I need to really focus on this event.
And the best lesson is, I know now I am a strong person. I can do anything and I am a capable person. I am a good friend, in fact I am a great friend. I am talented and I am a good leader. I motivate my team, I protect them and I will never let them be in difficult situations on their own. I am there for them and I will always be there for them. I have a kind heart and I will never want to hurt anyone. And only those who really knows me would be able to see this. Others would just judge and outcast me and I decided today, that's their lost!

And I am convinced, I am a better and stronger person after this experience......

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

It's like high school all over again

2011-06-15T08:15:00.000+08:00

I have been abandoning this blog for quite sometime. Not because I don't have story to tell, I won't even give excuses due to my hectic life, not time, penat...yada yada yada....but more of, I don't do blogging if I don't feel like it. Blogging would be when I feel like it, then I know I will blog from the heart...

And this morning is one of the I-feel-like-it moment. This past few weeks have been very taxing. Just came back from something close to backpacking experience in the States. Moving from one city to another, dragging my luggage everywhere I go, enduring the rigirous security checks in every airport, getting my head pat without fail...so for those who thought I was having fun, maybe you want to do this next year. Nevertheless, I feel bless having to visit many top universities, meeting alot of people, exchanging ideas and listening to their dreams and aspirations. I find that so breath taking! Biasalah tu, kita selalu ingat kerja orang senang and kerja kitalah paling susah and paling banyak. I do that sometime...at least I am not afraid to admit it.

Once landed in KL, celebrated my son's birthday and back to my parenting duty. Took him to Putrajaya to do his mykad. The next day, off to Batu Pahat to help out sister in law's wedding and then back to work. Thursday, took parents in law and the kids to Terengganu for a break and now back to work. To cut it short, I have yet to get the chance to overcome my jetlag!

Anyway, I am surprise myself, I was using the script my kids sometimes used on me....that is "Do I have to go to work today". They replace work with school of course. And not because I don't like what I do. I love my work. I truly do. I enjoy doing things that I am doing now. I am very passionate about it. It's the surroundings that is making me so tired!

It's like high school all over again. And 2 misconceptions I found :

Myth # 1 ~ This is business, nothing personal. I am professional

Hell no! In most circumstances, everything is personal. If we disagree in meetings, it will get personal. If what we do is something not to the liking of other parties even if it's the right thing to do, it will get personal. An email can also get personal when you have written it the best way you can, perhaps it's in an email where people can't see your expression as well as your tone of voice and decided to read it the way they want to read it...it will get personal. And when I said personal, this will include the after effect of the above. No more smile, no more friendly gestures, not even a hi when we rub shoulders. All in all, we are friends no more! And the worse part is, the if-I-don't-like-you-I-will-make-sure-everyone-will-not-like-you treatment. You end up wondering why people you haven't spoken to for quite sometime let alone having any interactions giving you the look and not as warm as before. You will start to think, what did I do to this people....And then you get to the bottom of it, lies are being spread about you. Things furthest from the truth...and people believe what they want to believe....Isn't this just like high school....

Myth # 2 ~ It's all about team work

I am a strong believer of team work. I believe if we just learn to help each other and not to be too concern over who's KPIs is this, the results would be much greater. I look at thing in a bigger picture. For example : when it comes to evaluation. If I perform, and I let other team members scrambled and fail in their tasks, when it comes to the appraisal time, it may drag my ratings down as the team's performance will be affected. That is why I don't mind helping out as I know, eventually, it will be a win-win situation. Vice versa, if I fail, my team(in this case, division) will some how be effected. But not many people see that. I am not a believer of team building. I don't see any good outcome in that. Sure, we laugh, we bonded, in one session I attended we even cried....but that's that! When we are back to office, business are as usual. We continue to hate each other, we back stab people, we bad mouth our colleagues, we spread rumors and lies about our team members...etc etc etc....And don't be in denial. This is a common culture. Not in just one company, in many many organisations. And to me, team work is such a cliche concept. Team work only works as and when it will benefit you. When you need help, people come to your rescue...that's how you see team work. But when people need help and you just couldn't care less, that's when this team work concept never exist. Safe to say, this concept is practise at your convenience! Again, don't be in denial. You know this is true.

I am just tired. I am tired trying to be nice to everyone knowing they have been talking bad things about me. I am tired pretending as if everything is ok when it's not. I am tired trying to figure out why suddenly some individuals are not a warm as before, I am tired rationalising why this specific person tell the whole world something I shared with her in private. I am tired being hated. So maybe it's time to throw the towel.........and just give up being nice, give up pretending, give up rationalising things. And start to be like the rest of the crowd! This morning when I wake up, I feel like my body is aching so much like it's been hit by a truck.(not that I have been hit by a truck before ;) ). But I know deep down inside, it's just a psychological effect.

And yes, I am emotional. I am passionate about things that I do. I laugh and cry because of my work. If that bother you so much, then just look the other way instead of talking behind my back. I don't judge you and I expect the same treatment!

A good friend shared with me key take aways yesterday :

1. betulkan niat kita (Insyallah, my niat has always been to cari rezeki and never intended to tabur pasir kat periuk nasi orang)

2. muhasabah diri sendiri, kot2 ada terslah cakap (to avoid this, maybe I shouldn't speak at all. asik salah jer saya nie, better diam kan. and if you are good friends, kawan salah, betulkan lah, ni tak, depan mcm ok, belakang cakap mcm2)

3. tetapkan hati and kita sangka baik aje kat orang, insya allah. (trying too, may need to try harder)

4. prasangka2 masing2 je ni... kalau kita ok, lama2 orang akan sedar juga (as much as I know I have tried, sebab this come from a very good friend, I am willing to try again)

Ok, with that out of the way, now back to work (or is it school, can't blame me from being confused!)

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

I can't believe it myself

2011-05-29T20:18:00.000+08:00

I have always have this interest to travel. I wasn fortunate my dad worked with an airline company and there were travelling perks that came with it. We travelled in many places around the world and I have always enjoyed going to this new places. When I got married, the perks disappeared with the commitment.

After that, I don't travel that much. Locally, yes, and mostly due to work. Also, the financial contraint was one of the reason why we don't get to go anywhere abroad. I think, at that time, the furthest I took my kids were to Kuching, and that was also their first plane ride.

However, Alhamdulilah, in 2010 I get to expand my traveling further, more than just local travel. Due to the project I was involved in, I get to go to Singapore quite often and in one or 2 visits, I extended the stay just to enjoy Singapore. Then, in December, for the first time, I took my kids abroad, though it's only Singapore. To me, that's one of the major milestones in our life.

2011 opens more opportunities to travel. I get to go to UK on business trip back in March. Though it was purely business, the fact that I get to spend 2 weeks visiting few cities in UK was really an awesome experience. Of course, it could have been nicer if I have my family with me. Nevertheless, I am really thankful I get to be part of this delegation. More so, I get to visit top universities, one I could only dream of enroling. This inspire me to bring the kids to UK one day Insyallah.

Then, it was Bandung in May. Our firsth honeymoon after being married for 14 years. We had a good time there. Quiet 4 days, away from our normal routine. We get to enjoy good food, good sightseeing and of course, good shopping. I plan to blog about it after I am back in Malaysia, after I manage to over come my jet lag of course.

Speaking of which, I am now in Boston Airport, waiting for my flight to New York. Yes, I have been touring many parts of US and now about to reach towards the end of our touring schedule. I must say, I did not enjoy US as much as I enjoyed UK. Maybe cause I am tired, traveling from one airport to another, practically on a plane every other day and tight schedules filled with meetings and dinner sessions are just not helping. Nevertheless, the experience is priceless. Again, getting the chance to go to Ivy league universities as well as meeting with their staff is something I never imagined myself doing. And if I were to come back to US for a vacation with my family, I would definitely choose San Fransisco. I wished I had more time there. The place is beautiful and I enjoyed myself the most there. I can't speak about New York yet, but I have been hearing good things about New York. Will blog about my adventure later as well.

Ok, flight about to board. I am grateful to be selected doing what I do now. I have always enjoy meeting people, listening to their experience and learning from them. Expand my networking and sharing with them my mission to their "home" country. I learned alot during this journey, and experience I will never ever forget. Especially the part, I went solo and managed to get myself to places alone....

Will try to blog about the journeys I have experienced the moment I get the chance to....And Insyallah, Australia will soon be on my map!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

The conversation with my son

2011-05-19T09:05:00.000+08:00

I used to love watching the news. I love to know what's the current update, either local or abroad. I love the sports news where I know who are the winners and the not winners (tak baik panggil losers kan)

However, off late watching news is so unproductive. Nothing serious hardly being discussed and only some petty stuff, mainly talking about negative things. Also, some propaganda which I think has been done in too much manner. So, I hardly watch news nowadays.

Last night, I accidently watct the news while having team with MBH and the kids. And again, the sex video is playing again like a broken record. And what amazed me was Ilham response to this. The conversation goes like this :

Ilham : Abang tak suka lah tengok news, tak best

Mama : Kenapa bang?

Ilham : Diaorang tak tahu ke berdosa membuka aib orang. Lagi2 lah cakap benda tak elok pasal orang

Mama : Kalau benda tu betul macamana

Ilham : Kalau kita ikhlas, kita pergi lah dekat orang tu. Nasihat face to face. Tu baru betul kita nak tengok orang improve. Bukan cakap belakang dan malukan orang. Orang sekarang dah tak takut seksa api neraka

I am impressed with the way he thinks. He is just 12, techically not even 12 yet and he already knows what's right and wrong. My only doa is for him to grow up as anak yang soleh and able to guide the sisters and me. Take care of the family and uphold the family's dignity. Amin....

I am truly blessed!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

My blog, my FB and my Twitter

2011-05-17T16:55:00.000+08:00

I wanted to blog about my Bandung experience as well as an entry for my mom for her birthday, but I have something pressing I just need to get off my chest. But let me warn you, this is yet another emotional entry from me so for those who have something against frequently emotional people, you may want to skip this.

Again, I am a process person, so will segment this into few categories :

The need to sampai menyampai

I was in an emotional turmoil in October, and no I would not want to re-write what happened. Only I know what exactly happened and should there is any other person who claimed they do, that is furthest than the truth. Oklah, MBH also knows everything, after all he is my best friend. I was in my worst emotional state at that moment. I get offended easily and not to mention I was overly sensitive. Seeing one FB comment enough to make me pissed and thinking I could trust people, I was seeking clarification whether I was the person the comment was addressed to. And I remembered telling to keep this to him/herself. I just need to know, that's all and the moment I know it's not me, I moved on and never speak about this to anyone ever again. And 8 months later, I got to know, this did not happened. Apparently, this leaked and worst, it leaked to the owner of the FB. And now I know I have never learned! I kept on trusting people only to be disappointed later. Yup, not the first time this has happened to mem I just have this habit trusting people. Hopefully, it will be the final time....just need to remind myself like how I have always tell my kids, "bukan semua orang baik, jangan cepat percaya". It's time I take my own advise. And to those who have this habit to sampai menyampai, instigating, or influencing people not to like certain individuals just because you don't like them, I have nothing else to say to you but, "Api neraka tu panas babe, antara lama ke kejap kita jadik penghuni di dalam sana"

An FB experiment

So, I did this experiment last week. I blocked everyone (yes, everyone) from seeing my wall. I wanted to see who will block me back. Reason : to support my theory on how people response to so called "rejection". And after an hour, I just made random checks and yes, there are people who blocked me back. And no, I am not offended. I am ok, at least I know what are people made off. So, to those who block me back, please note I did not block you guys only, I blocked everyone. Now that this theory has been proved, now I can safely put this in my coaching assignment.

Less FB, more Twitter

I love my FB. I update my status regularly, whether I am sad or happy, whether I am upset or I am at the top of the world. I load pictures and I share where I am now. Why? Cause I thought I am sharing this with people I know. This people who either have invited me to their FB friends and I have accepted the invitation or the people whom I invited and have agreed to be my friends. What I am trying to say is the relationship is reciprocal. No one was forced into entering this agreement. I love reading people's FB status, I love to know what's going on in their life, cause they are all people whom I considered friends. To me, they are free to write, upload or update whatever they want. And I know FB has this features where if I am one day, that bothered about their postings, I can always hide them or even remove them from my lists. To have them continue in my friends lists at the same time feeling annoyed with their updates are just not acceptable in my diary. It's like tak suka tapi nak ambik tau gak kan? However, I discovered, Twitter is a better sharing platform. It proves another theory where it's better to share your feelings and life with strangers than sharing this with people who think they know you and have the right to judge. So from now on, FB only to uploads photos, location and blog postings, or to keep myself updated with my friends status, and updating opinion and feelings, via twitter.

I'm no ditcher!

I had to make a career choice earlier this year. A choice which suits my lifestyle and schedule better. And the decision made was after thinking through as well as several istikharah. It was not a decision made overnight. So, to be accused of ditching my team is uncalled for. I know my commitment and I will fulfill my end of the bargain. In fact, I am still part of the team whom some people said I ditched! To me, if you are not sure, come and ask. Don't assume, and then pass judgement. I am more than happy to explain my decision over coffee despite my busy schedule cause I take it as a compliment for people to be interested about my life.

Yes, I am being explicit and that's ok. Cause this is my blog. And my blog is my comfort zone. My blog is where I jot down my feelings, my experience, my smile and my tears. And it's amazing how those who hate my guts and still made the effort to read my postings. Man, I seriously need to complete my Master in Psychology. So many case studies I can refer too!

With that, have fun enjoying the rest of the day off. To my friends and readers who are celebrating Wesak Day, Happy Wesak Day!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ How I Met Your Papa ~ The Finale...And We Live Happily Ever After Insyallah......

2011-05-16T19:43:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the delay in posting the last episode of How I Met Your Papa. Not intentional, many things need to be settled and somehow everything has to happen before Friday. Why? Will be leaving for another 2 weeks, this time to US for work. Nope, it's not fun. I am just not the travelling type. But, duty calls so need to deal with this.

Okaylah, let's cut the chase. I know some of you are dying to know what's gonna happen next. Even if you don't, at least pretendlah! Kasilah moral support skit der for me yg baru nak berjinak2 dalam dunia penulisan telenovela :)

Well, I got pregnant when I was only 21. I remembered how happy MBH was when I told them we are gonna be parents. Similar response was received from my in-laws. But I was too afraid to call my parents. Not sure how they are going to accept the news. I was still studying, about to sit for my final paper. I remembered when I sat for my final exam, I was 8 months pregnant. MBH always said, maybe that's why Mira is so smart. Cause she help Mama to study for her exam.

Mira's delivery was a real blessing. My dad began to mellow down and I think he just melted looking at his first grandchild. I remembered how worried my dad looked the moment I entered the labour room. That was the time, I knew my dad still loves me. It was really a long painful delivery. I was in labour ward for 20 hours, mostly in so much pain. MBH was there with me all the time. The moment I saw Mira's face, I knew it's the reality, I am now a mom. And I am not sure whether I am ready to be one....

After I delivered, I went through a deep depression. I don't know how to take care of my baby. I get angry easily and I cried sometimes for no reason. And what freaked me out, I was afraid to be left alone with the baby. I was afraid I might do something bad to Mira....MBH was there the whole time being patient taking me though the journey. Unlike others who went through confinement, I took care of myself cause my mom was still working then. MBH really took care of me and the baby. Before he goes to work, he will bath the baby and prepare food for me, he will come back during lunch time to cook again and then another session of cooking once he is done with work. I know he is tired, but he still wants to take care of me. He was the one who always wake up at night when Mira cries...

And then, when Mira was only 6 months old, I got pregnant again. I was really sad, I cried. I don't know what to do. MBH, who in the beginning was happy for know this news, ended up sad seeing how upset I was. I was thinking, I am only 22! How can this happened! Again MBH guided me, taking care of me and making sure I am alright. The situation with parents have also improved. Alhamdulilah....

Life was tough though. Money was a big issue. Even with both of our salary combined, it's far from enough. Mana nak beli diapers, susu and many other stuff. To pay the rent, to pay car installment, mana nak makan. There was this one time, our car got blocked, and we only realised the car was about to be repossed due to overdue payment. MBH negotiated and the penarik kereta seeing me with 2 babies, somehow mellow down and asked us to settle by that evening. That was the start as much as I can, not to have any loan. It was a scary experience for me.

Once a month we will travel to Klang to buy cheap diapers and formula. I am lucky my 2 kids are ok consuming cheap stuff. I try to manage finance the best way I can. I remembered while I was working in Maxis, I was selling kuih and nasi lemak to colleagues to make ends meet. Others may be too embarassed, to me, as long as I can give my kids a good life, I am ok to throw all that feeling away. Imagine, waking up at 3am everyday to make the kuih and nasi lemak. It was so tiring but a mom got to do what a mom got to do.

When Hari Raya comes, that's a big problem for us. We will always prioritise the kids, and for MBH and I, we will buy baju borong from Jalan TAR or Parit Raja, usually cost about RM10 to RM20 one pair. To us, Raya is just another day, nothing special. I also make kuih for raya to be sold to friends, Alhamdulilah, the profit can cover the expenses to balik kg also to give some money to parents for Raya. I have always been thought, jangan kedekut dengan mak bapak.

Then, I got pregnant and delivered Baby. Life was not getting better. I landed myself a better job, but still not enough. So, again, an executive in the company selling kuih and nasi lemak. I have never regretted this, to me this made me stronger. Life was really tough. Every penny counts. Sometimes I don't eat at work, trying to save all the money I have. I just want to give my kids a good life, and MBH was working very hard too. There was one time MBH was selling mee rebus and rojak after work. I know he must be very tired, siang keje, malam bukak gerai....And the fact that he worked overtime as well over the weekend.

Nevertheless, Alhamdulilah, our life improved. We were and still are very careful with our spending. We don't really get to spend, go for holiday or even balik kg as frequent as we want. And now I can safely say, our life has improved tremendously. All the hardship, the sweat, the tears have finally paid off.

Yes, I have went though a dark phase in my life. To the extend I don't have enough money to eat. I know how it feels like to be car-less. I remembered to ride a motorbike to the hospital for me to deliver Mira. And I remembered during those days, sometimes, MBH and I would walk for miles when our tayar pancit. In short, I know what susah means....

For those who don't know me, they feel they can judge me. They don't know what I am made off and when they critice how others live their life, maybe they don't know how it feels like to hidup susah. It has been a useful experience, at least I stay humble and appreciate people's pain and sorrow. Not judging them as bad parents if they don't get car seats for their parents, if they don't buy stuff for their kids like other parents....Everyone has their story and just because you don't know that person, that does not give you the right to judge....Hidup ibarat roda, hari ini kita di atas, esok belum tentu lagi....

I am just thankful how my life has turn out to be. I have a big comfortable home. I have comfortable cars, I can buy quality stuff for the kids, I can give my kids good education. And the best thing is we get to help our parents, and we get to help others........Alhamdulilah......

Sorry, this finale is longer than usual entry. This is my life story, this is my journey. And my journey is still very far ahead. I know myself, I know what I am made off, I know my values.......And to those who think they know me, maybe they need to re-think again, cause I am sure they don't know my life before.....

Our actions are undermined by our intentions - whether they are good intentions or bad intentions. Therefore we should always check our intentions before we do or say anything. We must make sure that the action is for the sake of Allah so that it is accepted by Allah and that we will be rewarded for it, Insyaallah.

The Prophet saw said: “No one with the slightest particle of arrogance in his heart will enter paradise.”

A man remarked, “But a man likes his clothes to be nice and his sandals good.” The Prophet (Allah bless him and grant him peace) said, “Verily, Allah is beautiful and loves beauty. Arrogance is refusing to acknowledge what is right and considering others beneath one.” (Mishkat al-Masabih)

Wallahualam......

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ How I Met Your Papa ~ When The Real Life Begin

2011-05-14T12:12:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulilah, I am now back home after spending 4 days in Bandung. Don't ask what's the damage. As much as I did buy many things, However, MBH knows very well my spending habits, I will not buy things unless it's really necessary. I got all baju raya covered including those for my parents and in laws, and most of the purchases are for the kids.

Ok, let's move on to phase 2, the after marriage life. Oh, I forgot, I was still studying when I got married. Life was tough, financially as well as emotionally. I was estranged from my dad, he just refused to meet MBH. I have to continue my study and survived with one income, i.e. MBH's income. I just have to make this work. This is the path I chose, so this is the path that I will continue to venture.

Money was very scarce. I remembered there was few months we have to eat nothing but porridge a week before pay day cause we can't afford to buy other food. Nevertheless, I can tell you we are happy, despite the constraints we have in our life. The fact that we chose this path, no way we can ask help from anyone.

Trying to manage my family better, I still come over to visit them. My mom treated me and MBH well, my dad still have some resistance. He will not even accept MBH's hand shakes. Once he saw him, he will enter his room and will not come out until we leave. I get upset sometime, but MBH often told me,give it time. Insyallah, it will get better. And looking back, he is so right!

I know many would think how could I do such thing to my dad. If I don't feel strongly about something, I will not fight for it. I feel strongly MBH is the one, and he can takes care of me like no other man could. I know he will provide me with a good life and he will continue to be my best friend. And over the years, I have made the right choice. I don't know about the future but the outlook does seems to be promising...

If you think life is tough now, wait until I share with you phase 3, the when-we-start-having-kids phase. That is why I can confidently say I know how it feels like to live a difficult life. Some people are lucky born with silver spoon and never have to be without money or food, never have to make choice between food and car seats. And what tickles me, this group of people have the guts to criticise the choices people made in life without even attempting to know the real issues. Just because some of the choices others made don't suit their ways of doing things, that don't make this not so privileged people bad parents. I know, I was there!

So, look out for the final entry, How I Met Your Papa ~ Rezeki Anak2. If anyone interested to turn this to movie ke, telenovela ke, drama bersiri or even musical, I am open to negiotiation (*prasan*)

Have a good weekend all!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ The one about parents blessings

2011-05-12T11:32:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulilah, it has been great in Bandung. The weather has been very kind, not too cold, not too hot. Made all the needed purchases (depending how you define needed). The bottom line is, managed to get this for the kids, and other close families. I am one happy camper. Of course, the fact that I get to spend quality time with MBH, though there were some "interruption" from office, however, still manageable.

Let's get on with the next episode. Being a process oriented person who love working in phases, let me start by phasing the next journey. The phase will be phase 1, phase 2 and phase 3. Phase 1 is the journey before marriage, phase 2, the journey after marriage and the final phase is the journey after having kids.

Shall we start with phase one. As mentioned, I left home and no one knows where I went to. I just called my mom 2 days after the argument with dad, and I called MBH as well, just to let everyone know I am alright and I will be back once I am ready to face all this. No need for police report, finger pointing or whatsoever. I just need some time to cool down and digest what had just happened. Also, how should I move forward with this.

I then, met MBH and told him I needed a place to stay for at least 6 months. He rented me a room in this chinese family house. I still go to college, studying as usual and no suspected the kind of thing I was going through at that moment. Being an immature person, I throw a suggestion to MBH, let's elope! To me, at that point of time, that was the best thing I can think of, cause I know I want to spend my life with him. I am lucky MBH is matured enough to object to the idea, he said "Apa kita nak cerita dengan anak kita nanti, kita melawan ibu bapa, kawin lari". He assured me the consequences will be long term should we choose that path. And I obliged, though I still think we need to do this.

MBH then brought his parents from kampung to meet my parents, only my mom welcomed their visits. My dad chose to not to be involved in this. He also told everyone he will be willing to become my wali. I know how I have upset my dad, and I know if he looked back, he would have done things differently knowing a great person MBH is.

I did not get a big engagement like others. I was in this room, with my mom in law, MBH and his sisters. My mom in law put the ring on my finger and we were officially engaged. No hantaran, no photographers, no nothing. But, I was grateful. To me, I know deep down in my heart, I made the right decisions.

We then went to Pejabat Agama to do the necessary process for our nikah. I decided to get married at my arwah's Wan house, knowing there's no way my dad would want me to be married at his house. I went to see my mom to get my dad to sign some forms, and as expected, he refused! He then got called by Pejabat Agama to know the reason of his objections. Should the reason is not valid, he will need to take us to court. And highly likely he will loose as the pejabat agam find MBH to be a good man, with a good job and able to support the family. My dad has no choice but to sign. However, he told me he will not be there during my nikah, he will only get the tok kadi to represent him. That broke my heart, but I know one day my dad will accept MBH.

As I mentioned in several blog entries, I did not get a grand wedding. It was just some close relatives and friends. I arranged the ceremony myself from the food to the very modest pelamin. No photos, no nothing. Nevertheless, Alhamdulilah, I am really thankful MBH and I are now husband and wife.....

Our life journey is far from ending.....Phase 2 has started and that was one of the toughest phase in my life. Why do I say that......Will share in the next entry....

Ok, gotta go. Checking out from hotel and need to to drop by Kartika Sari to buy some brownies. Can't wait to get home to my babies and look forward to come to Bandung again!

Though the honeymoon came 14 years late, it was one of the sweetest moment in my life......

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ How I Met Your Papa ~ Pelbagai Rintangan Ku Tempuhi (Pantun Mode)

2011-05-11T06:56:00.037+08:00

Alhamdulilah, second day in Bandung has been great. Apart from spending time with each other, we managed to get some stuff for the family as well as materials for baju raya. I am now convinced, this place is super cheap. Especially the food. We had an amazing time trying out varieties of food at such unbelievable price. Even last night for dinner to celebrate pur 14th anniversary, we had this amazing steak with delicios drinks and it only cost us RM80. Mana nak dapat kat KL der

Oklah, let's cut the chase. Let's continue with the story shall we? And please be reminded, this story is not fiction. It's true encounter of our journey together. Just not to let you guys bored, I feel like doing this entry in form of pantun. Dengar ya!

Beberapa purnama sudah bersama

Hati budi makin diselami

Rasanya masa telah pun tiba

Ayahanda bonda perlu mengetahui

Hati ini rasa berdebar

Tidak tahu mana ingin dimulakan

Si teruna memulakan dengan sabar

Alhamdulilah, ayahanda bondanya tiada halangan

Giliran si dara telah pun sampai

Berdoa agar hubungan diterima

Dimulakan dengan bercerita dengan Bonda

Seakan nampak halangan tiada

Langit tidak selalu cerah

Cuaca mendung langsung hujan

Berita diterima ayahanda dengan marah

Terima tidak merestui jangan!

Jarak umur menjadi alasan

Pelajaran harus diutamakan

Taraf hidup turut jadi pertikaian

Mampukah si teruna menyara kehidupan

Larangan berjumpa telah diberi

Perpisahan sementara teruna dan dara

Si dara teruna berduka hati

Siang malam berendam air mata

Si dara tidak tertahan lagi

Hati lara tidak keruan

Si ayahanda tidak berdiam diri

Disuruh keluar dibuang semua pakaian....

So what's next. Let me remind you, I am not trying to tell the world my dad kicked me out. I understand, my dad just wanted the best for me, his only daughter. I know he can never live knowing I am with someone who could not take care of me.....I left home and stayed at a place where no one knows until now. Even MBH was not aware of this action of mine and so when my parents went to see him to know where I am, he had no clue.

So how did we managed to over come all this. What kind of jouney is in store for us....

Wahai pembaca yang budiman

Perjalanan hidup masih panjang

Ingin tahu apa kesudahan

Harap bersabar harap bertenang....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ How I Met Your Papa ~ Making Sure of My Feelings

2011-05-10T06:09:00.025+08:00

We are now in Bandung. No, I am not gonna share the damage so far, safe to say, it's not that damaging yet. (kiddinglah, this is a auto publish entry, I am still in Malaysia when I am typing this). I do hope to purchase clothing for my kids, stuff for mom and mom in law as well as some goodies for ourselves.

Where did I stop? Oh ya, the first time we went out. I would not want to call it a date cause it was more of asking someone to accompany me as I don't want to give up my free tickets. After that excursion, we started calling each other. It was not that difficult as I was doing my internship at the same place, so calls were made to office, not home just yet. I somehow sensed my parents would not be too happy if they find out.

We did go out casually with friends, having lunch together or even some coffee, but never just the 2 of us, more with friends. I was not ready to get caught by my mom or to be seen to glaringly that I am heads over heels with this man. I wanted to take it slow and I want to be sure of my feelings.

Summer holidays were over and I have to go back to college. During that time, technology was not even an option, the only available means of communications were this thing called public phones. And you will laugh if you hear this, we write to each other. Yup, write as is Dear Sayang....on a full sketch paper not typing via emails or even text messaging. At that time, those were none existant. Everytime I get a letter from him, I jumped with joy. And we make it a point to call each other once a week,

Finally, it was the time, the first real date. I still remember the venue was Mcd Jalan Silang. My friends from college knew how much I like MBH. And they also know of my couldn't care less attitude. And they know how much I love Big Mc. They were cautioning me, "Liza, tolonglah makan nugget je, sopan skit". As expected, my response, "Ek eleh, memang aku suka Big Mc, kalau dia tak suka nasib lah".

The meeting point was in front of Central Market. To get to KL from my college, it took 3 buses. I left college early not wanting to be late. And I got to know, he left house earlier. Despite being in KL for many years, MBH is still clueless about KL. He only knew of Puduraya, Kotaraya and Central Market. That was the basis of the meeting point.

As always, we talked and talked and talked. I get to know him better and somehow I am sure it was not a crush. I enjoyed his company, I love his sincerity and the fact that I love the fact that I can be myself whenever I am around him....And I did order Big Mac....

Ok, gotta go, flight boarding....What happens next? Lek ah....Nak merasa gak blogging from Tanah Seberang...

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ How I Met Your Papa ~ Sape tackle sape?

2011-05-09T06:00:00.047+08:00

The moment you read this, I may be either on the way to the airport or already on the plane to Bandung (depending whether the flight will depart on time or the typical flight delay situation) or if you read it much later I may be already in Bandung and started to stimulate the Indonesian economy. After 14 years of marriage, this is the first time we are on our honeymoon. Since the day we got our first baby till now, the kids have always been our priorities, as much as many people volunteered to take care of them and ask us to take a break, we were just not ready yet

Let's get back to our stories. Well, this time, let's talk about me. What is there to share about me. Born in KL, raised in Kuala Selangor, went to school in Kelana Jaya and entered MRSM Jasin for form 4 and 5. So, when MBH started his career at the same place my mom was working, I was only in Form 4. I came to office to see my mom sometimes, mostly because I came back from hanging out with my friends in Subang Parade and need a ride to get home. My mom sometimes get confused who was my boyfriend cause she saw me with many boys. The fact of the matter is, none of them were my boyfriends. I just love hanging out with boys and enjoy their company.

Fast forward, I entered college and was told by my friends Sunway Lagoon was having this promotion where you can enter the park for free. I can't remember which company sponsored it, either Kent or Salem. My cousin gave me 2 free tickets, however, I have no one to go with. Most of my friends have dates and I just don't want to be the 3rd wheel. While I was thinking, then I saw MBH and I just candidly asked him, "Nak ikut tak Liza pegi Sunway Lagoon, free tak payah bayar". So, to answer the question, sape tackle sape, it was no one tackling no one. I wanted a friend to accompany me and I saw him, the rest is history.

He said yes at first only to say no 3 days before the day. I was not happy. He gave reason he needed to go back to kampung. But, my instinct told me, it's not only that. And my natural nature that will not take no for an answer especially if you have said yes before, I probed further. And only to find out the real reason he planned to ditch me last minute.

The reason : Cause he thought I am high maintenance. Yes, you heard me, he thought he needed alot of money to take me out. He thought he need to take me to posh place for lunch, he need to take me by posh car and everything else have to be posh. Reason for this misconception? The people I hang out with. I still insisted for him to say yes, and I can be very persistent ok! So, finally, he said yes.

So, we went out. We had lunch at this nasi campur stall at SS15 Subang and then off to Sunway Lagoon via his motorbike. There, we talked and talked. We got to know each other and he told me many things about himself, about his family and about his life. We talked as if we've known each other for years....

And I know this may sound cliche, but there was this one moment we were walking on the jambatan tergantung and the bridge was swinging and I nearly fell. He hold my hand and at that very moment, I know he is the one for me....

How did the relationship developed after this? How did we end up getting married? And was it a smooth journey....Stay tuned for the next episode (hahaha, nie kira macam tgh klimaks only to hear the host to say "Kita kembali selepas ini")

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ How I Met Your Papa ~ Dari Mata Turun Ke Hati (hmmm...not yetlah)

2011-05-08T19:54:00.001+08:00

Today, I am gonna share with you how MBH who came from the kampung, arrived to the city and ended up living here. Let me warn you this story is not the typical he-came-to-city-and-live-with-relatives kind of story, In fact, it was far from it.

MBH came from his kampung leaving his comfort zone just to proof to people he can make it in the big city. He don't have to but he did. His dad owns a grocery shop and the business is doing really well. His dad has this aspiration for him to take over the business. But to MBH, he wants to make it on his own. And of course, the fact that he was promised a job once he reached KL was another pull factor for him to leave.

The moment he reached KL, no one was waiting for him. At that time, there was no such thing as a mobile phone. He don't know who to call. His first initial thought, buy a ticket home but to him that has failure spelt all over it. Something he could never even imagine doing. So, he did the next thing he knew, he took a bus randomly and this random brought him to Subang Jaya. He don't have a place to stay so he spent few nights sleeping on a bench at Subang Park. Yup, that's exactly what he did.

Those past few days he was looking for a job. He was randomly asking at few places, and finally landed a job as a security guard in one of a prominent building in Subang Jaya. He was still homeless though, so he slept in office, under the stairs which can be convenient as he now can perform more shifts. This arrangement was for nearly 3 months, when he finally had enough money to rent a room. He then rented one small "reban ayam" room in Kg Lindungan. (He gave that name for the room)

Just like now, MBH was a hardworker. He is loved by the boss and made so many friends, either colleagues or tenants. With his salary, he then managed to send some money to his parents. He went back to kg once every 3 months, and when do, he will go on this shopping spree buying stuff for his family back home. Especially to his 2 smaller sisters, he just adored them......

Fate for us to meet become closer. MBH was then offered to join a medical center, a medical center which my mom was working at. In fact, my mom was the one who interviewed him. He got the job and started his career there. I was only in Form 4 at that time. Occassionally, I do go there to meet my mom and I do bump into him at times, but, no spark just yet. I noticed, most of the time, when he saw me, he will run away and go to the other side of the office. I must be that scary.......

So, how did we meet? If I tell now, tak cukup lah one week entry...Who started the relationship? Who was flirting with who? Sabaq no! Wait for the next entry.

Ok, gotta go. Taking mom for Mother's Day dinner. Can't be late, cannot miss 2 great football matches tonight.

By the way, to all mothers, Happy Mother's Day. Remember, a good mother is not measured by the number of stuff you buy your kids, or by claiming you put your kids first before work or even spending longer hours at home than office. A good mom can only be measured once we leave this world, whether our kids will be reciting Al-Fatihah for us. And whether we get to go to heaven by our kids doa....So, stop judging people who have to work extra hours, who have to be away from their kids due to work, or even buy branded stuff for themselves. Choices in life are different from one individual to another, hence, stop playing God ya!

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Anniversary Entry ~ How I Met Your Papa The Beginning

2011-05-07T21:56:00.000+08:00

This few days (or may drag to a week, just a caution to those who are not so fond of me and yet want to know about my life) will be entries on How I Met Your Papa aka MBH. Nope, in this series there will be no Ted Mosby like character or even Robin, Lily and Marshall. Definitely not Barney though he is my favourite character in the TV series. This will be mainly about MBH and I and how we got to where we are now. And reason for this? MBH and I will be celebrating our 14th Year Anniversary and what could be cooler than documenting the journey of our relationship....

MBH and I came from different background. We are not even from the same state. If we were to really analyse our background, it is quite highly unlikely we get to even cross path. MBH is 7 years older than me (please please please say you totally can see the age difference) hence no way we will meet while studying. we have no common interest hence no way I will see him in concerts, stadiums or even in shopping malls. We don't have common friends and the fact that we live hundeds of miles from each other made made it almost impossible to even lay our eyes on each other. Tapi itulah dikatakan jodoh.....

When I was in school, I do have some so called relationships. Nothing serious though. I have had boys in my life, broke some hearts and heart got broken as well. Just going through the normal teenage life like others my age. I was not that popular in school and college, far from the prom queen type. I was just this normal mediocre teenager who people hardly noticed. I studied in 3 different states, Selangor, Malacca and Perak. Johore, where MBH comes from, is not a state I am directly related to.

MBH on the other hand live all his teenage life in Johore, specifically Batu Pahat. He was born and raised there, received his education there and his first job was in Batu Pahat as well. He has never been out of Batu Pahat, even for a visit. Why? None of his relatives are married to anyone out of Johore. Let's just say he was the first. That is why, based on this, highly unlikely we even get to meet or rub shoulders.

Many of my friends thought I would be one of the last one to get married. I was this happy go lucky persona and far from ladylike. I remembered my favourite attire would be jeans and shorts (my dad always nag about the way I dress when I leave the house, he said mcm anak cina!) And whenever my dad bought me jeans, I will cut it to knee length, safe to say, I never had long pants. I don't wear make up, people would be lucky to even see me with powder on my face. I don't have girlish shoes, all are sneakers even with baju kurung. Speaking of baju kurung, I only wear this on 1st day of Raya and that is only the first half of the day. The second half would usually be the baju without the kain. I know my Arwah Wan always "geleng kepala" looking at me. Now you see why my friends got the shock of their life when they got to know I am married at the age of 20!

Based on the presented facts, it's quite amazing how we even get to meet. And ended up spending our life together....

So, how did we meet....Sabaqlah, next entry yer...

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

The day my sister married my brother

2011-05-06T20:58:00.001+08:00

Today is a big day for 2 person I care so much for. And today, they are united by one akad, an akad which tied them as husband and wife, the akad which vowed for them to take care of each other, for better or worse.

If you are expecting for me to share how they met, I don't intend to do so. It's after all, their love story, and that is a story for them to tell. I am more comfortable to share how I am fortunate to get to know this 2 wonderful person.

Let's start with Wa, the bride. I knew Wa when I was working with my previous company. Wa was my intern and she was in fact a very fast and competent intern. She kept on asking for more work to do, she was so fast in catching up. I remembered one time she had finished all the work I gave her and she was asking for more. I was so busy at that time and can't stop to teach her the next things she needed to do and instead I told her "Wa, kat rumah K Liza ada banyak kain tak lipat, pegilah lipat kain!". We laughed to that. I don't know whether she still remember.

And then we have the groom, Andy. I knew Andy when he was still an employee of a bank who was my client. There are times I bumped into him and I have always acknowledge him as one polite person who knows how to respect others and like Wa, he is very competent. He left this bank to join another bank. I was in need of a team member at that time and I contacted him whether he's interested. And his rezeki as determined by Allah, he got the job.

Now, let's talk about both of them. While Wa was an intern, I brought her for a meeting at Andy's working place. I remembered clearly, we were waiting for Andy's boss and Andy walked pass the sofa we were seated. I remembered introducing Wa to Andy and they shook hand. I am not sure if they remembered that.

And there was this one time, when I had a meeting in Putrajaya and Wa called me wanting to have lunch together. Andy was with me at that time and he wanted to come along. I asked Wa whether that's ok and she was fine with that. I remembered we ate at Kenny Rogers Alamanda and both of them were fighting with each other. When the bill came, I remembered Wa telling us this is her treat, and Andy commented "Kalau tau, order ayam seekor". At that time, I secretly wished they will end up with each other. I am not sure if they remembered that.

And I remembered when Andy told me that they are dating each other and I was so happy. Few hours after that, Wa texted me asking me whether did Andy told me anything. I responded "takde pulak". And then she informed that they are now a couple. I then just responded "Tau, Andy cakap, saje je nak dengar dari Wa pulak". Again, I am not sure if they remembered that.

And this one time, Wa came over to KLCC for lunch and she wanted to give me a birthday treat. We had lunch at Penang Cafe and as always, both of them like to tease each other. Sometimes I wish Andy can be a little bit more romantic, but then again, maybe they just don't do it in front of me. And when we departed with each other, I remembered I saw both of them holding hands....And I was so close to jump happily...I am not sure though whether they remembered that.

I attended their engagement and dusts got into my eyes when everything was finalised. And today, both of them are pronounced husband and wife. And again, dust got into my eyes. I am so happy this 2 wonderful person found each other. I am so happy Wa is with someone I know who can take care of her. And I am so happy Andy is with someone who will love him with all her heart.....

There you go, dusts got into my eyes again.........

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Memorable characters

2011-05-04T20:25:00.000+08:00

I have always considered myself as a boring person. I was boring in school, boring in college, boring in working place and at times boring at home. I don't do exciting stuff, I don't have talent that make me extra ordinary, let alone having pleasant physical appearance, not only for people to remember, I would be lucky if they even wanting to look at me twice.

No, don't take the first para as I am complaining, let alone not being grateful for the blessing Allah has given me. I am more than thankful, everything in my life fits me perfectly. I am just wondering what makes people memorable. I have been in many situations where I bumped into someone I know, but I was too shy to say hello afraid that they don't remember me, and most of the time, I am right, they don't remember me (or they are just like me, afraid I don't remember them). I come to conclusion, I am just not a memorable character.

I am impress of some people who can really make their presence felt. I can clearly remember few people from primary school who have interesting characters, usually would have a nick name associated to their personalities. There are also people back in college who I can totally relate too. Ex-colleagues who have made an impact to people's life, my life in particular. And some other people who I met in my life.

I sometimes wonder how this people can be remembered and they did it effortlessly. Some maybe due to their looks, some their talents and some just their personalities and approachable characters. Some may be remembered for the right reasons, some may have negative connotations tagged with their names. Some just make the extra effort just to be noticed while others just have it in them, not having to try to do anything....

I must be more careful on my behaviour. I am ok if I am not remembered. I am more afraid once I leave this world....I am being remembered for the wrong reason....Nauzubillah....

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com

Changes are never easy

2011-05-03T15:55:00.000+08:00

I must admit, I am slower than many people when it come to changes. I find it difficult to adapt, to change my scheduling or my routine. If I'm driving I will always use the same route though my mom always tells me to change the route once in a while so that I will not be marked by criminals. (though that sound so paranoid, but I know she is right).

I get disheartened easily when things change. Like when I have been doing something, and suddenly without notice, things are being taken away from me, I get depress and frustrated (though I wish people can be more sensitive and kinder). When I am in new team, I take time to internalise and digest the new scope. Like one of my friends told me, I need to unlearn and then re-learn

This few months, I have to go through many changes in my life :

1. Sending my daughter to boarding school. Getting used to not seeing her everyday

2. Being part of a new team in work place, trying to learn the new ways of doing things

3. Still trying to get used to changes in friendships. Getting used to the fact things are not the same and the level of closeness are now different. This one has and still have a great impact in my life. As much as I want things to be the way there were, I know it's not entirely up to me

4. Getting used to people saying no on my requests and not to take it personally.

Changes are part of growing up. Imagine one day, I am no longer be the place where my kids turn to when they need things as they are more independent...and the moment they would want to be with their friends more than me. Sad but it will happen one day.......

Signing off,

liza365.blogspot.com