Birthday @ TGIF

29th December 2007. That marked the day Dad turn 58. All this while, I didn't take notice of Dad. He's been my dearest daddy for the pass 24 years. I really wonder how we are all so close to Mum but there's a small gap between us and Dad. Mum is the on who constantly nagged, beat, scold, nag, beat, scold, nag....yak yak yak. I'm repeating myself cause that's Mum is. On the other hand, Dad is a more quiet and stern type. Anything that Mum can't handle, she will send us to Dad. As a police officer, he used to show us the strict, no-fooling-around face and that never fails to stop our mischievous.

Today, we are all married but my youngest sister. Dad is now a retiree and goyang kaki at home. He's been faithfully growing his tummy everyday. The only time he cut down on his diet was a month before my wedding, so he could get into his 10 years old pant. It was not an easy job but he managed to lose a few cm just to squeeze in and zip up. Lucky for him, the pants did not give way that night.

The celebration was at TGIF on Saturday night. We pre-booked table for 9 and told them it's for Dad's birthday. They have a tradition to sing birthday song to the birthday boy/girl and had them standing on the chair. It's good that they check with us and we requested for him to stand up only. After the desserts was cleared. they brought in a slice of cake with a lighted candle. Almost all the crews gathered at our table to sing the birthday song. What left us laughing so hard was the rap after the birthday song. A line of it was, " Someone here is getting old!" Definitely Dad is getting old. But for a 58 with 3 daughters married and a grandson on his way, and all his family members celebrating his birthday for him, he's a one happy honored Dad.

Happy 58th Birthday, Dad!

Bidding goodbye to 2007

It has come to the last day of the year. It's time to reflect on what I've done for this one year.
I have:

1. Accepted a proposal at my CARPARK
2. Planned and execute my very own wedding
3. Traveled to Bangkok and Singapore
4. Found my passion for DIY craft
5. Started my virtual home - chocmud.blogspot.com
6. Married to the love of my life

For 2008, I vow to:

1. Change my status from single to double ;p
2. Be a loving and supporting wifey and DIL
3. Start my own home e-business
4. Be spec and contact lens free
5. Take up trust license and learn on mortgage
6. Grow my precious in my tummy
7. Trip to Bali and Shanghai
8.
9.

This list will grow as time comes. Cheers and Happy New Year!

Happy Marriage, my dear Alice

I just gotten to know last Saturday that my sales assistant from my bridal house was getting married the next day. Which means 30th December. Which also mean the same day as my second sister. Which absolutely mean they let out the secret accidentally. We, customers were not suppose to know about it as the bride wanted to be low profile. But now that we know, we are very happy for her.

Congrats and happy marriage, Alice!

Day 1 @ Singapore

Part 1

On this day, we woke up as early as 7.30am to get ready for our 10.30am. That's was because SIL will be taking us there around 8.30am. The first thing we did when we reached, was to check in. There were already several long queues. Lucky us, they opened another counter and we were alert enough to notice that. Next, we went over to have our breakfast at my favourite fast food, Nando's. Too bad, they only have breakfast set instead of the usual chicken. Anyway, we ordered two sets, one M.GR Scramble-E (RM13.95) and another one M.Roll Breast-E(RM13.95). Both sets include either tea or coffee. Well, something new to us.

Tea for me and coffee for Hubs.GR Scramble Egg
Roll Breast Egg

Right before we down our breakfast, we realised that our seats numbering is separated. Hubs was in 49G and mine was 49E. So who's that in 49F?? Without wasting any time, Hubs rushed over like Superman to clarify it. Little did we know, there is no 49F in the plane. Was the number inauspicious? Didn't hear anything before this. The good thing is they didn't reserve 49F seat and purposely leave it empty (like those in Genting, if you get what I mean). You will never imagine who I saw in the airport. My CEO!!! And he's boarded the same plane. Saw him, waved a lil and moved on. He recognised me, the one who beat him during the drinking match ;p Or maybe he was still trying to recall where he had met me before?

We reached Singapore around 11.30am. Once there, we searched for the Uniquely Singapore counter. All this hassle was to get the Hippo Tour free ticket as stated here. The uncle who served us was not that nice. When we asked him for direction to our hotel using MRT, he sarcasticly answered us, " You think it's near? Haha....". HELLO! If we know, we wouldn't have approach you in the first place. Hubs was agitated and snapped back at him. Then only he felt a lil paiseh and said, "Well, it's raining. So taxi will be better." As if his son is the taxi driver, so he promoted for him. Do you know how convenient is the MRT? It's just a mere 10 mins walk from my hotel. If we were to follow his suggestion, God knows how much we have to spend on the fare instead of less than 2 dollar on MRT.

Ok, so using the map, we rode the MRT and walk under the drizzle rain and WAALLA!Our lovely marvelous spectacular Scarlet Hotel. We were mesmerized even with the outlook only. A little peep into the restaurant from the window, we felt head over heal in love with them.The lobby was amazing too, with different sofas on each corner. They even put up the chirstmas tree, UPSIDE DOWN. See, isn't that lovely? It saved space too.All these admiration stopped abruptly when we wanted to check in. Apparently, our reservation was cancelled. Without our acknowledgment! Here's how the story goes. We booked and done the whole payment to Komtar Tour & Travel during the last Matta Fair. We double confirmed the booking a month after the payment was done and was assured everything settled. Komtar Tour engaged with Quantum Reservation in Singapore to book Scarlet Hotel. However, the lady who handle our package had resigned and so Komtar Tour did not follow up with payment to Quantum. Thus, they cancelled our booking somewhere around October. If it was not bad enough, that day is a public holiday both for Malaysia and Singapore. Calls were made to Komtar and Quantum from Hubs and hotel receptionist, Winnie. Good thing is that time was not peak period yet. So there was still available rooms. We were given a room but we'll have to bear the payment in case they didn't receive anything from the travel agent. Komtar Tour agent said something about faxing over the invoice later. We have no choice but to wait for them to send over the payment. After giving them the details, we were brought to our room. Again the admiration continued.Yup, our room number is very auspicious. The black box below the number was the door bell and to the right of the picture was a leather pouch-like post box one for each door. We had the standard room. There are two types of design for standard room. I wasn't sure if they gave me the one with the roof window because we told them we were on honeymoon. But we sure are very happy with the room itself. Have a look yourself.

Picture taken from their websitePicture taken from my own digicam

Apart from the angle, I didn't see any difference. They are living up to their pictures. That is so good! Even the toilet was so beautiful I took picture of every corner.By now, you should have realise I'm CC (camera crazy). My passion for photo taking started when Hubs got me Canon IXUS850 IS. But that story for another day. After finish taking photos of every single corners in the room, we were ready to embark the journey of shopping. The first to go was Chinatown, also know as Niu Che Shui (Bullock Cart Water). Nothing much to talk about. Stalls selling mostly feng shui stuff at 10 dollar for 3 items. Pretty cheap but I don't know how to appreciate. We only bought some new year deco and pillow case there. It was already 3pm but we have yet to have our lunch. We saw stalls in Smith Street which has the feel of Petaling Street. We ordered the famous Peanut Soup and a Kuey Chiap.
This is nice. The tong yuan has lots of filling. You can choose to have several flavors in one bowl. Hubs ordered 2 peanut filing, 1 red bean and 1 green tea. The peanut was delicious, red bean was nothing to shout and the green tea tasted weird. Probably I only like green tea in the form of liquid tea. As for the kuey chaip, pricing at 4.50 per it comes with a bowl of kuey teow and a plate of intestine. All this while I do not favor kuey chiap but it's Hubs fav. However, this tasted nothing like the look it gave. It has strong pig smell . Even before I ate it, I can already smell the piggy smell. Hubs complained that it was no where near good.

After late lunch, we went back to hotel and take a good rest before continuing our journey to Orchard Rd. Stay tune for Part 2 of Day1

Penang Lor Mee

Today is Christmas Eve but this year, Hubs and I are not going to celebrate it. Why would anyone be anti-christmas? No, I can assure you we are still very in love with Christmas. It's just that we celebrated it earlier and it's the first time in Singapore. So we just went out to have a simple dinner at somewhere near Komtar. I couldn't give the exact direction. Afterall, I'm direction illiterate (if there's such word). But here's a picture that hopefully will be able to give some guidance.

Parking is not a major problem as the carpark is situated just a few steps away. It has an entrance of those chinese style, so for sure you won't miss it.

Hubs said this shop sells wild boar soup and monitor lizard soup in the afternoon. They are like Bak Kut Teh but only with different soup base. Personally, he doesn't dare to try the monitor lizard, so he opted for wild boar soup. It was delicious as he commented but he suspect that the soup has a lil bit of monitor lizard in it too. I, for one, will definitely skip this shop if I ever pass by in the afternoon. Both of the name (wild boar and monitor lizard) already made my goosebumps stand straight up.

At night, there are several stalls operating there. Namely, Koay teow th'ng, lor mee, char hor fun. The tables and chairs are set by the side alley. Tonight was only the second time I went there. And I ordered the same food, i.e. the famour lor mee and belacan fried chicken. From the look, it's definitely not appetizing. The black gravy makes it looks somehow yucky but trust me, the taste it so good I craved for it after the first time there. This was not the normal lor mee from hokkien mee stall. It was cooked to taste like shark fin soup. At least that's how I can think of after the first mouthful. If I'm not mistaken, the ingredient include rice wine and vinegar. If you don't like vinegar, you can ask the Uncle not to put it. And he is very generous with the fish fillet and fish cake. See the chunck of fillet in the picture? A bowl of lor mee costs RM3.80. Not a cheap one but I must admit the portion is quite big.

Another must try is the belacan fried chicken. The stall is located to the other side of the carpark entrance but you can order and the seller will deliver to your table. The crispy-ness and the smells...oh so good. A piece of chicken cost RM1.80 while a chicken butt costs Rm0.80. It was Hubs fav, so that will not be missed out in the picture, applogize for that.

That's all for now. Couldn't comment on other stalls as we have yet to try them out. The lor mee and belacan chicken are already too much for our tummy.

Mini Honeymoon

I just came back from my mini honeymoon trip@Singapore last Saturday. 3days 2nights is more than I could ever asked for. In short, this was the best holiday I've ever had. Will update more on it later. Of course I have taken lots and lots of photos to go along with the story.

As for now, I'm in the office catching up on my work and blogs hogging on what I've missed out since last Thursday.

Hubs locked me out

Yesterday must be a hectic day for Hubs. FIL had to undergo a cataract removal surgery in LWEH early in the morn. SIL was schedule to fetch him to hospital while Hubs turn was to fetch him home after the surgery. The surgery was completed in the afternoon but with doctor's advise, FIL has to be warded for half day so he can rest there. Hubs was there during lunch time and stayed till pass 4pm. He then rushed back to office to collect his laptop and right on his way to pick me up. I could see Hubs tired face while he was driving.
Immediately after that (roughly around 6pm) SIL called to say that FIL was all done to go home. Right after dinner, Hubs was all set to go to our videoman's house to pass him the song CD for out MTV. However, he complaint of tummy upset and visited the toilet first. Even after he came home from our videoman's house, he's still not feeling well. After much persuasion from his lovely wifey (ME!), then only he agreed to rest early . While I packing for our Christmas trip, I could hear him snoring away. Sigh...poor Hubs. Just as I climbed into bed he woke up for night pee pee. So I thought to go out and kiss the lil one good night. He finished his business and went to bed closing the room door. Little did I know, he locked it thinking I was sleeping on the bed already. When I wanted to open the door, then only uh-oh! I turned to MIl and said, " My hubby locked me out tonight". Aw...so sad!! They were laughing so hard but she still manage to quickly find the spare room key for me. Too bad, the keys were rusty and we had hard time forcing it into the hole. Probably by then, Hubs had realise I was not there and woke up to open the door for me. He mumbled something about me sleeping beside him and I was not there...bla...bla....bla. If not for the sickness, I would have him out the door for the night. Just kidding...

First Christmas

All my life, I only been to Singapore once when I was very young. The place I remember the most is Sentosa Island. We went there at the end of year, a rainy season. Armed with umbrella and raincoat, we still manage to take pictures under the rain. One will for sure notice that we were still posing under the rain. Apart from that memory, there's not much left for me.

This time I'm going to there on a year end too. Hopefully it won't be wet like the last time. I've heard all the tales on how lovely Orchard road will be during Christmas and how well decorated all the shops will be. We will dine in one of the finest restaurant, shops till we drop and live in a gorgeous boutique hotel. For the first time, I'm going to see all of them with my own eyes and take lots and lots of pictures, I promise. Finally, this dream will come true. I'm so sure I'm blessed.

To have or not to have..that's the big QUESTION

Last Saturday was the determining point. It was suppose to be the first day of my period cycle. Every month, it came on time, so this time I was well prepared. However, this month it tries to be cheeky. That totally left me puzzled. Does that mean I'm pregnant? I was going to rejoice but at the same time, not so happy either. I was really in dilemma. I wanted to be pregnant but not before I do my eye laser. If the baby comes before the laser operation, I'll have to wait for another year to do it. And when my baby is born, I'll not be able to see it clearly in labor cause I won't have my contact lens on and I might scream in pain till I break the spectacles' glasses. I want to do the laser operation now if not for the work load. If per planning, I'll have it done next month and get a few month rest before starting to conceive. Wish me luck!

Happy Birthday to you,dear friends!

We, the makan gang were out again last night for the celebration of December's babies. Yup, this month we have two birthday girls. One being my uni mate and another being my ex-house mate. Upon recommendation from Lil' Monkey's colleague, we decided to patronize the new shop in QB, Macedoine Dining. Situated on top of Old Town Kopitiam, it took over the place used to house Al Fresco Coffee. The place is quite small and with a group of 6 people occupying two tables, it looks like we almost have the whole area covered. Each of us ordered a set dinner. For RM14.80++ per set, it comes with a soup, a main dish and a drink. I did survey on this restaurant from welovepenang.blogspot.com. Since she went back there for the second time, I thought it was not bad. We didn't whip out our camera so the following photos are taken from welovepenang.blogspot.com.

First to arrive is the Grilled Chicken ordered by Hubs.

He did not join the birthday celebration but since the others were late, he had his dinner first and left me when the rest came. The soup was nothing to shout about. What I like about this set is the green blended peppermint leaves that was used as deco. This blended leaves was normally used in tandoori chicken serve in Kapitan...my favorite. All the sets come with a choice of either saute potato or wedges. Staying with my MIL, I'm trying to lead a healthy life too. So I asked him to go for saute potato. Good choice! The potato reminds me of those that comes with Fujitas from TGIF or Chilies though the taste lacks a bit. As for the gravy, we felt that it doesn't go well with the meat. As for the drink of the day, it was peach tea. It smells good but the only sad thing is it's too sweet. Maybe if we ordered with ice, it will be diluted and hence not this sweet.

Two girls ordered Grilled Fish but non not have good comment on it.

Each of us tried a bite on this. The taste? Erm.....weird. I couldn't figure out the taste but they said it tasted like corn sauce. This time the waitress forgot to asked us whether we want saute potato or wedges, and they decided to give us wedges instead. Lucky for my sharp eye, the moment I saw the brought the Grilled Fish over with the wedges, I immediately asked the waiter for potato for my set. Believe me, the wedges is a big NO-NO.

Mine? I prefer to be safe than sorry and ordered Chicken Chop. No one can goes wrong with this. It's just a deep fried chicken drumstick and a little sauce. No photo for mine though. Taste the best among our orders. The sauce is slightly spicier but still edible. The chicken was crispy and quite big portion. I couldn't finish them. Probably because I had nibbled on Hubs food earlier on.

The last to arrive was one of the birthday girl. We had decided for her on her set after we tried most of the sets. We thought one could never go wrong with Fish & Chips too. Saw the next table ordered it and looks quite OK but turn out......disappointing. The fish was totally from the fridge to the flour. No seasoning or whatsoever. One word....TASTELESS. The portion is not as big as Chicken Chop but still she couldn't finish it.

We, the makan gang is famous for our sharp tongue. Not in arguing but in food tasting. All I can say is once and that's enough. If you don't believe us, give it a try.

MACEDOINE Dining
Business hours: 10.30am - 10.30pm
Tel: 04-645 5872
H/P: 016-4673632 (Michael)
Email: michaellau11@yahoo.com
Address: GF-126, Queensbay Mall, 11900 Bayan Lepas Penang

Letter from Santa

Yippee....Santa replied my letter. It's a bit blur over here but never mind. I'm so happy I'll type it out for you to read too. It says,

" Dear Lindy,

Thank you for your letter! It's always wonderful to hear from you. I've been checking my list and I'm happy to see that you are on my Nice list this year. I'm very proud of you! I always like visiting Penang each Christmas because there are so many good boys and girls who live there.

I see that you would like WII for Christmas. I'll do my best to bring you something that will make you happy. Christmas Eve is just a few days away so be on your best behavior! Brush your teeth and get a good night's rest on Christmas Eve. Remember, my magic only works when everyone is sleeping.

Merry Christmas,
Santa Claus"

Thank you Santa. You really make my day. If you want to get letter from Santa too, go to this website and write down your wish.

I....m dreaming of a white christmas

End of the year is getting close. And so is CHRISTMAS!! Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle all the way, la la la...la la la....Christmas is my favorite festival of all, top of CNY, New Year and all those holiday celebrated in our beloved country. Hubs and I have come to agreement that this is a MUST celebrate festival. I look forward to this coming Christmas cause this will be the first I celebrate as Mrs. D.

Well, what is Christmas without a wish list? Or better still, a letter to Santa. I've draft out the letter and here is how it goes...

"Dear Santa,

I know I've been good for so long and I know you love me too. That's why you send an angel into my life right before Christmas so I can claim present from him ;p You tied him to me for the rest of my life. Oh I know what you are thinking. You are getting ready to dump me and not bring me present anymore aren't you? So now, you expect him to replace your job so you can rest earlier huh? You clever fellow. It's ok. I think he will do a good job from now on. But don't be happy too earlier. I still have one last request. This time I'm not going to request for present anymore. Presents are for children. Now that I'm grown up, my wish has to be a mature one too. Please let us be in healthy condition always and lead a happy marriage. Bless us with adorable kids and make our home full of laughters. That's all I ask for. Thanks!

p/s: if you top it with a present, it will be wonderful. I'm setting my eye on the wii. If you don't know what it is, please refer this website.

Love,
Mrs. D"

Spill the whole world

Since Hubs was away for 2 days, I went over to sleep at mum's place. And went visiting maternal grandpa too. A conversation between grandpa and younger cousins caught me by surprise. They are kinda cheeky and like to make jokes. But things they said are true sometimes. Depends on how you look at it and how you take it to the heart.

Cousin: (taking a bowl of mee to eat in the living room)
Grandpa: Eat at the table la. You will make the whole house dirty.
Cousin: That's not possible. How can a bowl of mee dirty the whole house. The house is so big.
Granpa: I tell you to eat at the table. It will spill everywhere.
Cousin: Think of it, grandpa. Now it's more impossible. Spill everywhere? The soup is so little and it will spill the whole world? Isk isk....
Grandpa: *&(%&*$

Everything you do

Browsing thru my favourite website, weddingbee, I came upon this beautiful piece of slideshow. And I definitely fell in love with the song Everything you do by Marc Anthony. I'm still waiting for my photo proof from my photographer. Hopefully he will not let me down completely and makes me regret ever have him as part of my big day. So far he has let me down quite a lot. Cross my finger that the pictures will make up for his not so nice attitude. In the mean time, enjoy this......

http://www.mivphotography.com/clients/slideshow/elizabethwedding/



I love the way you smile when I look in your eyes
I love the way you laugh when I try to be funny
And how the tears roll down your face
When I say no one could ever take your place

[chorus:]
Cause baby when you sleep I watch you breathing
Baby when you dream I dream with you
Cause everywehre you are is where I want to be
Its true
Everything you do makes me know how much I love you

The way you touch my lips right after every kiss
And softly whisper that Im your everything
The way you pray our love wont die
Everynight just before you close your eyes

[repeat chorus]

And I believe some things are meant to be
Sure as there is love yours was meant for me

The return of....

You have been with me through the whole wedding process. You stayed by my side even when I'm acted inhumanly. You never complain even though I neglected you, probably sometimes just show tantrum by going out of place. You tried very hard to stay but there are times when you know you have to let go. Seeing you leaving part by part makes my heart ache. Though I have thoughts of giving up on you on several occasion, I have come to be fond of you and how many praises your glory. You made me shone on that night of my big day.

But the time has come for us to part. I have changed, I'm no longer a girl but a lady now. With this, I want to be different. Last Saturday was the last date we had. I went in with you but came out alone, leaving you in the shop at E-Gate with your new found friends of different shades. You will adapt easily, I promise. I can't come and visit you, so you do take care ya! Please don't shed a tear, as you will be remembered. Pictures of your glory has been taken and your legend will live a long time. Good bye, my 6inch long hair.

Immediately I feels lighter and lively. The splashing new length and color have received quite a number of praises. This is how I have dream of it all this while. The return of young me.

First night

Last night was the first night I'm sleeping alone since my wedding. Hubs has to go outstation but I can't follow. He's sleeping in the big suite with a massage chair while I have to cramp into my old room with youngest sis. Oh, I miss him so much. I really wish we can reach financial freedom so that he won't have to travel anymore. Even if he travels, I could go along for holiday too.

Spa Virgin

A while ago, one of my colleague urged me to go for a spa before our wedding. He said it was to cleanse our body and have a radiance skin prepared for the big day. I checked them out from Oomph.com.my. I've blogged about this website once. I personally find that it provide useful information.This time I shortlisted two spa center, one being Eiffel Elysees Esthetiques and the other one is Danai Spa. Eiffel is station inside DELUXCIOUS Spa-Cuisine, the bungalow between two bridal shops (Desantia and Regal Bride). We had the privilege to tour around it when we went to meet up with our wedding day singer, Mike. The place was soothing and calming, with the smell of my favorite aromatherapy oil. Most importantly, they emphasize on cleanliness and hygiene. Although it's a good place, the price is slightly expensive for the first timer.

Moving on to Danai Spa, this was recommended by my girl friend. She did it once and love it so much. The good thing about them is, they have special corporate rate. But the bad thing. our company is not in the list. After browsing thru their website and several Q&A emails, we decided to go for this. I was totally attracted by the package they offer and their Outdoor Bathing Experience. Questions were answered, time was booked, package was confirmed and off we go. Our session was on 3pm but they advised us to come in 30mins earlier to enjoy the outdoor bathing experience. We went there almost 45mins earlier to find the place. It was a closed up bungalow in the housing area. Almost missed it if not for me spotting the small signboard by the road side.

Upon entering the gate, we were greeted by a flight of stairs leading down to the entrance and lovely scenery. The sight was breathtaking and from then on, we didn't have a regret. Along the path from the stairs to the front sliding door, there is a pond full of koi. I wasn't sure of the name of the fish but running thru wikipedia lead me to this. Oh, they have put up the Christmas deco. Here a peak on the lobby. Since the sales person was entertaining another customers, we were served with ginger tea while waiting. Too bad, I never like the idea of ginger. We were spoiled with choices even after we chose our package. Being the bride and groom-to-be, of course we opted for the couple Favourite Treat for only RM 370 per couple, which consist of 90 minutes of Danai Signature Massage, 40 minutes Body Scrub and 20 minutes Bath Soak. Hubs and I chose the Danai Signature (point massage) instead of Aromatherapy Massage (relaxing massage). For the scrub, there is a choice of ginger scrub , milk and honey scrub (whitening) and java lulur scrub. Hubs had ginger scrub, for intensive dead cells removal and radiance. He later told me the scrub was a blast, as if he was sand-papered. Hubs choice of soak bath was destress soak therapy while mine was Cleopatra milk bath to further whiten my tan skin.

Once we were ready, the therapist showed us to changing room. Ladies will be given disposable panties and a piece of cloth to wrap the body and tie around the neck while gents will have boxer shorts. The outdoor bathing experience started off with a footbath. See the white basin on the floor? That was the basin to wash the foot. It was my first time having others washed my feet for me and I felt a lil paiseh ;pThen we were leaded into the swimming pool like pond, with fountains that feel like waterfall which they called village bathing experience.The water is so cold, I dare not go in for the first 5 mins. Hubs was already in it and coaxed me to join but I just manage to dip my feet. Once went in fully, I couldn't help but shiverrrr....grrrr...The sun was shinning so brightly but I could not feel a thing. Numb. We were suppose to take a calming, tranquil walk through the meditation labyrinth and followed by bathing in a Malaysian style cleaning. But without any guidance, we just dipped straight into the heated garden jacuzzi pools. One word. Heaven! While enjoying the jacuzzi, tea was served again. This time it was chamomile tea, definitely better than ginger tea. At the side of the jacuzzi pool, there was sunbathing place too. No this is neither me nor Hubs. We were quite surprise to find that we are the only customer there on that day. My guess, the other two without appointment went straight for the massage already. So we had the place to ourself. If there is other customer, ladies and gents will be separated. How lucky for us. We saw a bed in the little hut just beside us but do not have any idea. After browsing thru the website again, then only I know it was for outdoor massage. Cool!After changing out of our wet clothes, wrapped in bathrobe, we were leaded to our room, English room. This is where the massage and scrub will take place.Situated inside was two bed and a bathroom. Well, the bathroom has no door. Just a piece of cloth like those bath tub curtain.After the massage and scrub, we had our soak bath in this tub. We didn't know that that was the soak bath as we requested different thing. So Hubs have to wrap himself in towel and go out to ask for direction, only to be told we can clean up after the bath. *???* The whole experience ended in question marks. Upon paying, Hubs asked them for the procedure. Then only we know, they mixed up our order for destress and cleopatra bath. Instead they just gave us a destress soak bath. No doubt Hubs was happy with this arrangement. He can squeeze in the tub with me. Good thing it's big enough to fit both of us. To make up for their mistake, I was given the corporate royalty card. For the price that we paid, I was entitled to a free manicure session. Yeah!!

picture courtesy of danaispa.com

Stress+tired = slim down

http://chocmud.blogspot.com/2007/11/stressslim-down.html

From my previous post, how I claimed that stress is NOT going to make one slim down. But now I beg to differ. I have personally experienced it just a few days ago. After writing the post, I was still feeling bloated and worried that I won't be able to look good in my wedding gown as I was not as slim as during the shooting time. However, just a day or two before the wedding, I had plenty of stress that leave me sleepless night and a frown on my face. Magically it manage to slim me down overnight. In a bad way, it's not good for healthy and does not allow me to enjoy fully. But looking at the bright side, all my friends praised me for the stunning looking body shape. I have my waist of 23 1/2 again. Although it doesn't help much on the hips and thigh, but the ring on my finger is loose. What I can do now, is to maintain my beautiful shape ;p

Coming in as Mrs. D

Hello there! This is the first time I blog here after our wedding. So here I am, presenting myself as Mrs. D. I wanted to write in as Ms. D one last time before my wedding but things are not really going smoothly that time and so I missed the opportunity.
To start story, I took Friday as off day to prepare and relax myself. Did some spring cleaning to my wardrobe. Mum kept on pestering me to pack my clothes so I can bring them over right after my wedding :S Then waited for Hubs to come over to fetch me to manicure. Waited and waited and waited, finally he came at 3pm and he totally forgot about my manicure session. Rushed to bank to settle the credit card debt and all the way to manicure place only to find out the place is fully book. Sigh, now I'm not going to have nice nice finger nails for my wedding. Sian. Should have book before hand, that's my fault. Later on, had appointment with Mum and Sis to go on a search for presentable clutch. Mum rented a beautiful and gorgeous gown specially for my wedding but she don't have a clutch to go with. Luckily we didn't take long to find a good one from QB. It cost RM79.70 for one, not cheap I must say.

Oh well, I have something to borrow for my future dinner ;p The day will be fine if not for the reply from my photographer. What is a wedding photo without covering for make up session? But he couldn't make it cause it was TOO EARLY! Indeed, 6am is early but as a photographer you have to do you job if you receive the payment, right? Thinking to be considerate, I asked him to cover the afternoon session. NO, he couldn't do it either as he has another shooting going on. Luckily I could hold my tears and else I'll be wiping like a baby in the mall. Devastated, I called Hubs and asked him to deal with that fussy photographer. Hubs said he will settle and asked me to be his pretty bride and don't think of anything else. I'm blessed to have such a good hubby. He's always there for me, for good times and bad.

I'll update you with the wedding details later on. For now, I gotta catch up on my work.....again.

I believe it's so

Zombie look and feel alike girl roaming in the office, wearing a purple shirt paired in a jeans. From a bubbly girl, she has transformed into a quiet one, giving fake smile to those who greeted her. Others were anxious and excitedly talk bout her wedding but she can't hide the solemn-ness on her face. Is this what they call pre-wedding jitters? I believe it is so...........

After searching thru the internet, I have to identify myself to have pre-wedding jitters now. They happen because marriage does change your whole life. The jitters don’t necessarily mean you’re having second thoughts about the person you’re marrying. He or she may be the best soul you could ever find. Jitters can come from the life change marriage causes. It changes the way you live, your friends and who you are friendly with, the new family you might be gaining. It’s basically fear of the unknown. Anxiety becomes extreme when a person begins to obsess about whether or not they are making the right decision about something or loses sleep over apprehension that the dress or wedding site may not be quite right. This type of fretting could affect family, social, and work life. To make matters worse, the high stress involved in wedding planning can make people slip into their worst habits. Instead of working as a team, one or both parties may become demanding. Instead of listening, people can become defensive. All this really hit me in at the center button. But the sentence after this is really was a wake up call for me. "Other signs of the disorder include avoiding or manipulating situations to avoid the anxiety. "

After reading thru How to cure the Wedding Jitters on e-how.com. I realise I have to do something to keep myself occupy. They said chocolate is going to make you feel better. Currently in my cube, there's no chocolate to chew on, I guess sweet stuff like carbonated drinks will have to do. And my fav brand is Kickapoo. So while writing this, there's already an open can in front of the screen :) and I feel so much better. Just to share with you on how to cure the wedding jitters.

Introduction

You're about to take the big plunge, so it's only natural to get cold feet. Think about why you're feeling this way, but keep in mind that many brides and grooms experience the pre-wedding jitters - and that there's a reason you said yes in the first place.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You'll Need

• Stress Management Counseling
• Stress Relief Products
• Incense
• Airline Tickets
• Spa Gift Certificates

Steps

1 Step One

Go to a quiet place to get in touch with your feelings whenever the pressures of the pending marriage get to you.

2 Step Two

Reflect upon what you enjoy most about each other, the factors that make you think you'll be happy together and what is really important to you in life and love.

3 Step Three

Think back to the very moment you knew you loved and wanted to spend the rest of your life with your future spouse.

4 Step Four

Look to couples who have survived and celebrated many years of marriage. They can be a good source of support and great role models.

5 Step Five

Talk with your intended about your doubts and fears. You don't have to wait until after the marriage to communicate.

6 Step Six

Limit the time you spend with those who may be doing the doubting for you. Make sure your fears are really your own and not those of your friends or your parents

7 Step Seven

Set aside some time before the wedding to spend a romantic evening with your partner, away from all the wedding talk and plans.

8 Step Eight

Consider going to a couple's counselor to talk out your doubts.

I wrote an email to Hubs this morning, conveying how I feel right since last night after he rejected my idea. He had always stress on open communication since the early stage of the relationship. But sometimes I think he couldn't take my honest opinion. Either he has to learn how to accept words from my heart (which sometimes are not sweet to the ears and heart) or I have to control the way I feel. In each relationship, there has to be give and take.

Countdown: 3 days to go

After been in preparation for 9 months, now the wedding is just 3 days away. The feeling is like carrying the heavy belly for so long and now going to give birth, only this time to a wedding. If I were asked to describe my emotion in two words, it will be heavy hearted. Why? I really enjoy the process of getting the things done. I love the feeling of going to the uncle looking for the auspicious date, I miss being in the fitting room trying all the wonderful gowns but can't decided which one to choose, I adore the process of getting the cards and invitation, souvenirs done with my own creativity. Oh well, I actually miss my colleagues and friends fussed over how near my wedding is.

But for once, I don't like the feeling of letting others do the dinner program. I feel left out. Don't know about others, but I felt that the dinner Hubs and his best friend arrange is for them more than for me. It's more of HIS night or THEIR night more than OUR night. Hubs has been losing his hair trying to get all the things in place. He always complain he need to see to so many things. While I offered to help him, he's making most of the decision by himself. I sometimes wonder, was it because he don't want me to be stressed or is he just a controller? He's caring and independent, no doubt about that but I'm so used to making my own decision for the things concerning me and so this time, I totally have the feeling of dissatisfaction. I know if I ever complain to him, he'll be upset or angry or disappointed again. He's been trying to give me the best but here I am, wanted to "complain". I know how heart broken he'll be if he feels that his effort is not appreciated. So what I can do, keep to my darn mouth shut, act like a shy bride and let the whole thing goes by? It will end in just two days, so why start to make a scene out of it? Why can't I pretend that everything is going just the way I dream? Why? Why? Why??? Cause I'm a perfectionist.

*updated on Wednesday 28 Nov 13.59*

An excerpt I took from Get over those pre-wedding jitters.

Forget perfection

People focus on perfection. Perfection breeds jitters. Get rid of “perfect.” Everything will not be perfect! The perfect wedding will not happen — accept it, the perfect apartment, the perfect friends, the perfect sister in law, some things are just the way they are and you have to learn how to adapt, which is all normal.

Let go and give away the need to control everything. Be careful about what is fantasy and what is real. Focus on what is truly important.

Perfectionism is about control. If you let it loosen a bit, you will find that the grief, fear and loneliness that many people who are about to marry experience are not only normal but healthy. Everyone questions whether they are making the right decision. Questioning is not doubting.

Stress=Slim down

There have been many times I heard or read about how stress will make you slim down, took off a bit of your weight, bla bla bla.....It's kinda bullshit. Now I'm in the tension state but I didn't find any of my weight run away from me. Or....probably I have not reach the minimum tension level yet. It doesn't help that I am so lazy to exercise since the day I completed my pre-wedding shoots. I used to go either swimming or gym 3 times a week and look marvelous in my wedding gown. But now I feel bloated. There's no way I can slim down in just 5 days. I'm only praying that I will get so tension and scares some weight away.

Infection?

Recently, I find there's a slight slit on the right of my lips. It's annoying when I wanted to open my mouth bigger. I'm so used to laughing my heart out while throwing my head back. But now, I have to restrain my laugh, cause it hurts when I accidentally open my mouth too big. Even when eating, I can't get food that is spicy or salty as it will sting my slit. Not only on my lips but on my ears too. You know, the join between my ear lobes and my jaw line. Hubs is taking me to skin specialist after work. Hopefully it can be cured before my big day, which is just 5 days away.

Jusco Member's Day Penang

My all time favourite store is having member's day as I'm writing this blog. I've prepared for this since last week when my friend told me about it. Apparently, she thought it was last week, so she excitedly told us over lunch. However, she quickly admitted her mistake and took the effort to sms each of us the correct date, which is TODAY! Hubs and I have a date with Jusco right after work. But no, my colleagues couldn't wait and off we went during lunch time. As usual we went out late, so the car park is congested, the food court is bursting but the fun was, we saw so many hanged up poster with 30%, 50 % and even 70%. I couldn't wait anymore. The moment I saw my favourite bra brand, I totally ignored them and rush my way thru. Indeed, the bargain was not to miss. Initially I thought I'll wait for my second trip to try on the size upon seeing the crowd. Then something cross my mind. What if when I come back later and my size were all snatched up? What if there only left those push up bras that are anti-big-boobs? Mostly they designed the bra with built-in padding; i.e. can't be removed. With my being ehhm size, I don't need the padding....wait, it's I CAN'T have the padding. It will look overflow. So without wasting anymore time, I took two design and headed straight to the fitting rooms. There were about 7 ladies in front of me. Waiting patiently, I could see my colleagues busy picking out blouses from the bin. When it was my turn, I rushed in, closed the door, and within minutes I'm out again, wearing a big big grin. Yup, the size fitted my well and the price is the lowest I've ever seen. While still figuring if the line will be too long at the counter, there she was, my colleagues standing in the line holding a pile of blouses. So bad bad me, cut queue and hopped in front of her. Bet the aunty behind must be scolding me in her heart. I don't care, as long as I got the good deal of bra!! Just a step before my turn, to my horror, I forgot to get the resit. Rushing like a mad dog, I went to the bra section again just to see queue and the lady taking her own sweet time write the resit. Trust me, I almost die of heart attack waiting for my turn. No, I couldn't wait anymore. I asked the person in front of me if she could allow me to go first but before she could process my request, the nice aunty at the front of the line ask the sales person to let me go first. Phew! I must be good girl to receive this help. Thank god I made it on time back to the counter and continue with my payment. Otherwise, probably I have to take half day off. Well, it doesn't make much different cause by the time we reached, it's almost 3pm ;p

The Ups and Downs

Yeah! My wedding gown and evening gown are finalised for dinner

Boo! The cheongsam which I love so much could not be chosen due to the difficulty in movement (especially my first dance)

Boo! Make up schedule for mum and sisters are not confirmed yet cause the requested a later time. They wouldn't want the make up to melt before dinner

Yeah! Hubs and me are going to have a great weekend (read: TOMORROW). We have planned to go for our very first spa and then to a find dining.

Boo! Our appointed photographer might find a replacement for us instead of coming there himself. Gotta talk him out of the idea..

Yeah! Our traditional 'bedroom arrangement" session will be this coming Sunday

Yeah! We are going shopping after work today. Jusco member's Day.

Boo! My procrastinated work is getting piled up. Hopefully can finish before I start taking leave for my wedding

Yeah! I'll be on leave today of next week

Boo! I'm sensing slight nervousness as the day gets nearer

Yeah! My blog's rank has increase to 4 (WOOHOO!!)

Yeah! Our wedding is next week!!

*update* my blog's rank is actually down to zero. I wonder..... :(

FreeRice

I received a forwarded email on the FreeRice.com two days ago. Thinking it was just another forwarded email, I deleted it without even giving it a second thought. However, while browsing thru HowAboutOrange website today, I saw it again. This time, I clicked on the link and found this. FreeRice is a sister site of the world poverty site, Poverty.com. With two goals in hand, FreeRice aim to provide English vocabulary to everyone for free and help end world hunger by providing rice to hungry people for free. How is this, I asked. Apparently, this is made possible by the sponsors who advertise on this site. For each word you get right, they donate ten grains of rice through the UN to end world hunger.

Well, my vocab level is in shameful level, I dare not reveal here. As I wanted to donate more, I cheated a bit ;p I search for the meaning of each word before I choose the correct answer. This way, I can help to feed more and at the same time improve on my vocabulary. Check it out, click on the picture below.

You don't understand izzit?

I don't know how to put it. I think I'm going insane. The wedding is only 9 days away. My preparation is done mostly, so that's not the problem anymore. The main problem comes in when it involve family members. If others were to make fuss, even a small tiny one. I would just ask them no need to come (not in the face la, of course). For example, Hubs requested two of his friend to sing a song or two during the dinner. But they come up with extra idea. Since we have asked them so many weeks ahead, they should have prepared the songs and memorize the lyric even in their dream. But no, they need to have a tv like karaoke system, whereby they can refer to the lyric. This is NOT a karaoke room thingy, they should be like a pro. So instead, we'll just cancel their part.

The problem this time involved my own family members. We had arranged a family photography session at my bridal house prior to our dinner. And we (5 of us) will do their make up there as well. As the date is auspicious, there will be many brides doing their make up for dinner also. So in order to accommodate, the our sales assistant has arranged to start doing our make up as early as 12pm. I admit it's a lil early but their priority is on the brides. So I have to be understanding too. If I can be understanding, why can't my family do the same? Why have they to make my life difficult? They demand to have it at 2-3pm. No, they don't wanna do it so early cause by dinner time, their make up will be ruined. Then what do they expect? For other bride to do it so early and had theirs ruin instead? As usual, my sister manage to squeeze me till I suffocate. She sounded so concern on mum's make up, " You don't understand, izzit?". Everyone thinks for themselves but have anyone think of me? Do I have to please everyone but myself? Don't they see that I, as a bride is quite stress up with the wedding? That I, as a bride is more tensed than anyone. That I, as the bride will want to look more stunning than all others?

I have no one to turn to but pour my heart out here. If I were to tell Hubs, he'll be angry again. Cause this is not the first time he saw how my family makes me sad and hurt. Not to say they don't love me or I hate them, just that sometimes I really don't know how to handle this kind of situation. They have helped me a lot. At this time, I'm so lost.

Star Celeb

Coming back from I tiring shopping for my sis's dress, I switched on the TV and was channel surfing till I came upon a sms-to-vote reality show. Among the contestant, I spotted a girl who was from the same high school, a junior to be specific. She was WOW! Even during school time, she was already a diet watcher and being a ballet dancer didn't help much. This young lady used to compare herself with another pretty girl who was more popular, being a ballerina too and participated actively in choir, public speaking and prefectorial board. I didn't keep in touch with any of them for the past 7 years. It's been so long since I left school?? Now, I'm feeling old. Anyway, she is on Star Celeb (starceleb.tv) . What's Star Celeb? I run thru the website and found this ....

"StarCeleb is a brand new exciting reality show that will set a path to your road to stardom Hosted by May Wan and Daniel Tan, both talented in the field of modeling and hosting, the show promises lots of surprises, talent showcase and experiences we all can relate to. The search is on for two (2) talented individuals who is ready to become a star celebrity with characteristics of an ideal host, brand ambassador and model on a the brand new reality show 'StarCeleb'. You will stand a chance to win RM 50,000 cash prizes ( 2 winners each receiving RM 25,000 ), and a hosting / modeling contract."

The challenge that was on air last Sunday was they were required to go on the ride in Times Square Theme Park, come down and immediately host a show in their own way but must include in order, the 3 facts that given before hand. It wasn't an easy task, I must say. After all those bumpy, 720deg turn and have the heart almost popping from your mouth, you still have to come down and look and talk professionally. This junior was not one of the best but I think she did her best. She manage to keep her cool, walked like a model, descending from the stairs after the show. I mean, as a host, you must be so excited and jumping around, and can't wait to tell the audience how cool is the ride. The fact that she seems pretentious during the TVC, according the judges, doesn't help to gain her a good impression from them.

However, way to go girl!!! Here I am, another 16 days to become somebody's wife and there she is, climbing up her celebrity ladder. Oh, I'm so envy. But I'll achieve my fame too someday, in my own unique way. Who says only celebrity can be famous?

17 days to go

I have this bunch of cute colleagues working here with me. Why do I say cute? When I mentioned cute, it's not because of their appearance but more to their behavior. They are all excited with my upcoming wedding. What they did is, they set up a countdown board on MY white board. Every morning, they will stop by and alter the number accordingly. Although it's not that significant to others, but the fact that they come in to do it every morning never fails to make me smile. Aww....so sweeeett...

I think I'm getting hornier with the fact that I'm getting married soon. And whenever I see pregnant lady, I secretly wish for one too. But I know I'm not prepared yet. I just love the feeling of being able to have a round tummy to caress and still look so beautiful. Yes, I do find pregnant lady beautiful and their dress is cute. Sometimes when we go out for lunch or shopping, I couldn't help but check out those big tummy ladies. I know I want to be like that somewhere end of next year. Probably wearing a maternity blouse to Lutt wedding on September ;p

RSVP please....

It's sad to say that while the wedding is just a shy 3 weeks away, we have yet to receive the RSVP from a lot of people. I'm not sure what holds them up, probably they just love giving us "surprise". Or was is because they are waiting to receive more exciting ones, and is keeping ours as backup in case they are not invited? I believe many bride-to-be has been or is in this situation. Should we just give up their seats to others who are eager to go but didn't get the invitation due to seat limited? Or should we keep their seat regardless they are going to make it or not? We wouldn't mind if they try to give us reasonable excuses for not able to make it or just a flat "sorry, I don't think I wanna join your wedding dinner". At least that would make it easier for us to do the head counts and prepare the seating. Here is something I pick from a website. This is the part that really voice out what is in my heart.

"R.S.V.P.- the French phrase "répondez s'il vous plait," means "please reply". An incomplete list of respondents can cause numerous problems for a host, including difficulty in contracts with venues, planning schedules, food, parking, security, people-moving, seating, party favors and more. Sometimes the biggest issue is embarrassment for the host or the guest of honor."

Include the question the extent of your need for RSVPs in early planning phases of your event. If your event is formal or complex or expensive- you must be willing to suffer over your numbers. If you can afford to be hospitable by being more flexible or casual or simple or spending more money (!) - you will have less to worry over with your response rate.

However, we all have times when we want to provide a finely-tuned, high quality experience for guests, and the RSVP is the way to accomplish this. If you have an event that needs all the fine-tuning that a solid RSVP system provides, here are some ideas:

Take ample time on the invitations . Consider it an investment that can really pay off (how I wish) in favorable response for your event. Make the invitations memorable. Color, style, design, scale, a gimmick – consider these as techniques to trigger people's memory. Tune your invitation to the event so that it sets an accurate set of expectations in your guest's mind – for instance, if it is highly formal, you need to stay within formal perimeters."

We have also printed out the date for replying at the invitation. Hopefully they will see it and choose to obey, instead of making our life more miserable by painstakingly chasing after them for an answer.

"If you need to, set a clear, firm RSVP date. Include a phrase like: "This date cannot extend, promptness is a must. If we do not hear in time we must sadly take you from our list..." "

It's not a practise in our custom to limit the number of people an invited guest can bring. I really wish we can have the say but sadly, parents don't allow it and relatives can't accept it. Even some friends just don't understand the difficulty and insisted on bring the whole village. We have receive RSVP from Hubs friend who stated that the XX husband, XX son 1 and XX son 2 are coming. They should understand that wedding is mainly for adults and children are only allow for close relative. If only we can go this.....

"For more formal events, use wording: “We will reserve 4 seat(s) in your honor until April 25, 2007” on the RSVP card. This firmly indicates the maximum number of guests you are inviting and the need for a response.

Cover issues of people bringing children, dates or guests. Never print "no children" or "adults only" on an invitation. The way an invitation is addressed should indicate the names of exactly who - and by omission, who is not invited. Or, one can print: “Adult Reception.” Consider providing a babysitting service for your event if the participation of children presents a problem."

If we still didn't have the RSVP from the guest, trust me, I'm going to send out the e-invitation stating that their seat is only reserve till Xdate. Without any confirmation from them, their seats will be given up to others who might want to bring extra guest.

"Send out an email or call those you have not heard from by a certain date - it's perfectly acceptable in all guides on good manners.

Use face-saving phrases like:
"It has come to our attention that some people have not received their invitations to our event on May 3, 2007. If you did not receive your invitation, please let me know immediately so we can send another one. Hope to hear that you can attend the event!!" "

If only the guest will have this kinda info, then the arrangement won't be a headache for us anymore.

"What hosts should know about R.S.V.P. manners:

Be clear and give good direction. Do not be upset at people if you have not communicated well.

People are obligated to R.S.V.P. any time that they are invited to an event. That does not mean that they know this fact or will comply.

People should respond by the date on the invitation. If there is no date, they should reply within 48 hours.

If a guest responds “no” and then finds they can attend, it is appropriate to call the host and explain that they are honored to be invited, that schedules have changed and, if it's convenient, they'd like to attend. Hosts can accept or say no.

If it is an out-of-town event or a financially complicated event, potential guests can call and explain and ask what the absolute latest date to R.S.V.P. is. This is an acceptable inquiry on the part of your potential guest. "

For the most part, seeing the RSVPs roll in can be a fun part of planning! Seeing people responding and their well wishes really make us smile (but not those with extra uninvited guest). I have heard of cases whereby the guest brings his/her cousins or some other pick up stranger so that he/she won't be lonely. Have they thought of the host's feeling? Even more when it's seat limited like mine? Hubs and I were going down the list for the bazillionth time, trying to see if we can spare to cut out a few more people. Basically he's doing his and I'm doing mine. I wanted to help him cause I know it'll be hard to cut out but I know he will want to handle that himself.

A friend of mine started asking me, " Did you invite so and so?". Well, I didn't plan to invite them in the first place. But since she asked and she seems lonely, I did invite the others at last. Just as expected, they all come back with NO and secretly I'm so happy.I swear, sometimes I really get scared that this wedding is turning me into a horrible person. Does anyone else feel this way? Has anyone else gone through a similar situation?

Brand new look

My super cool cousin just create something and it makes my favors look better and awesome. She basically add the packaging for the magnet. As simple as that but it gave a whole new look to it. I'll let you judge by yourself. ( *insert Drum roll*)

front view

side view

a peep inside

open up

back view

Well, I think this is a good idea and the best part, it's so affordable. So what do you think?

I still have to work!

There is a rumor that said I'm going to resign after my wedding. Well, I wish so too. Unfortunately, the time has yet to come and sad to say, I'm still stuck here in my 4 x 4 cubicle. What worries me is this rumor might affect the way my boss will look at me. Although our annual review is around middle of the year, this rumor might have some impact on it. I really don't know who is the culprit. If I ever got to know that, believe me, I'm going to confront her like I confronted my ex sis who used to spread rumors about me. Am thinking of clarifying it with my boss when I hand him my invitation card later. Hopefully he's not that easily influence by the rumor.

Have you had any experience with rumor too? How do you handle them?

Hacker

A few weeks ago, I was chatting on MSN and bumped into an ex-colleague, who happened to be my university's junior. Trying to be nice, I asked her about her recent condition as she resigned due to family problem. After we chatted for a line or two, she asked me whether I have Maybank2U account. Since I didn't have it, she changed topic after that. She brought up a very personal question and I was quite taken aback. First of all, I was not used to being asked this kinda question and secondly, she portrayed to be very innocent. Her asking me this question?? It's either she feels I'm trust able or I'm being over sensitive. Luckily I didn't disclose anything personal to her. Every time she questioned something, I'll question her back (that's how my mum taught me ;p). I told Hubs when he fetched my home day. Never did it cross my mind that her account has been hacked. I mean, why would a person hack someone else chatting account?

Not until recently that I got to know the truth. I went to BBQ at my colleague's apartment and coincidently, a few who attended were my university's juniors too. So they were friends of my ex-colleague. I overheard them talking about this hacker who used the msn account and conned one of the juniors to bank in the money for her. Below is the email the victim sent out to warn others. Please take note of the hacker's name and account.

Guys! please beware of MSN fraud! Read on:

It happened around 1125am on 19th October 2007. When i was busy with work, a friend suddenly 'IM'ed me using MSN messenger. She used to be my roomate and i am very close with her. So, she asked if i could log in to maybank2u account because she couldn't. As I’ve tried, i could log in. She asked me for a favor saying that she owed a friend money and been delaying him very long and its kind of urgent to return the money and asked if i could help her to transfer money to her friend first and saying that she'll definitely bank in the money back to me after work that day. The amount she asked was initially RM800, but since i got not that much money in that bank account, she told me to wait as she will ask her friend if its okay paying him RM400 first. So, sensing some kind of emergency here, i without any hesitation (this friend once asked me to lend money to her the same way), I’ve banked in the amount to the bank account she gave me. The account no. is 1111-1428-6194 and the owner's name is KEW MIN TECK. Well, at the end of the day, after working hour, i still yet to receive any call from my friend regarding the money. So, i smsed her regarding the money. She was shocked about it and asked if she still owe me money. (We stayed together for the past few months, so, sometimes she owes me money for bills...)So, with the thought that she forgot bout it, i mentioned to her that she asked for my help to transfer RM400 to her friend first. With that, she's even more surprised and gave me a call. When i told her about it, she said it must be her email account being hacked already. (FYI - MSN uses email account to login) because she received a SMS from an unknown number saying that he's matthew and he hacked her email and asked her if she wants him to restore for her. This guy's number is 012-2141405 which is a prepaid number. I was so shocked with the news and immediately went to Maybank to see if the transfer could be stopped. It was already 720pm at that time, offices already closed down. I've called the maybank hotline and they asked me to make a police report and bring back to Maybank tomorrow. So, i quickly went to the nearest police station and make a report believing that with the guy's bank account number and name, police force could at least track him down or get evidence on him for the crime he's committing. I told my friend to do the same thing and tell her to sms all her friends regarding her account being hacked. At the police station, there's this policewoman at the counter. She asked me where did i do the transaction and i told her at my office. she told me that i must go to another police station to make the report as that is not under their district. I was like 'huh?' However, i managed to make a police report. That policewoman did not even listen properly to the incident i was telling and she started to type on her own. Since she did not attentively listen to what i was saying, she got things wrong and asked us to write the story down. I was lucky that i got a friend to accompany me to the police station. (i don't even know where's the police station is... i'm a KL ppl in Penang now). Even though I’ve made a police report, the case wasn't open. To no avail, nothing has been done. The policewoman then called another officer (it seems that this officer has the higher rank) and he talked to me. I was asked by him 'why do i need the police report’, the reason of getting a police report? (is that suppose to be a question? i wouldn't have trouble myself to lodge a report if i find it not necessary)By telling him that at least could get details on the guy from the bank, he told me to go to Maybank and get the guy's particulars and hopefully i could talk to that guy and it'll be good if he returns the money else, i'll need to treat it as a wrong investment. (wrong investment!!???) So, particularly, nothing has been done.

The next amusement thing about this is that, i went to Maybank as told by the officer the next day along with the police report and hope that i could get details on that guy. And the only thing that i found out is that they need an officer/personel to come along only authorised to view the details! (omg! how come no one told me bout it at the police station?) The guy in maybank was very helpful. He managed to help me check (i got a peep on it) about that hacker's bank account. To my surprise, there are alot of transcation to this guy account! Besides mine at 11.25am, at 11.30am there's another transaction (RM620) transfered to his account. There are several more. And at that moment, his account only left RM146! Doesn't it obvious that this guy is vigorously cheating others by hacking into other people's account? Since, nothing can be done without an officer/personel, with much despair i decided to go home. Just on the way back, i received a call from a friend from KL stating that the hacker the friend's email account to online again and now talking to him. That hacker uses the same tactic to him asking for help to transfer money using maybank2u. I asked my friend to entertain him to see if it is the same guy,same bank account number. So, when i reached home. I tried to talk to that guy again. He's using the same conversation again! (omg! doesn't he remember that he has already conned me?) by making it sounds like i'm talking to my friend, i talked to him again. So, as predicted. He asked the same question again and the whole lot conversations were the same. And without any surprise, the name and the bank account number is the same! So, i called the police station where i make a report yesterday to tell them about it. The policeman who picked up the phone was so rude. Then, i told him bout the incident and my report number and told him that this guy is in action again. And yet, another disappointment. The policeman said that there's nothing he could do as he can't get out of the police station and he then gave me a hp number to call. I called that officer who's responsible for this kind of cases but only got 'i'm busy at the moment. i'm taking some statement here' as the answer. My KL friend who got the whole conversation which of course, the same account number and the same name - went to make a police report and requested to open up a case for this. After waiting for 4 hours at the police station and listening to the policemen saying that there's nothing they can do, there's no evidence and a more ridiculous question thrown to my friend is "Berapa Ribu kau hilang?" (how many thousands you have lost?)

Isn't it the police’s responsibility to track this fella down? And why am i the one suppose to get the particulars from Maybank? Doesn't he knows that we're not authorise to do any checking on people's particulars unless there's an officer/personel together with the police report only could do that? Why am i not told about it when i'm at the police station lodging the report? And isn't it the job of the police to get evidences on this guy who is doing the crime? It doesn't matter on how much we got cheated, it is still our money and furthermore, what if that i'm not the only person being conned here? Imagine, each person he conned RM400, so if he managed to con 10 people, that would make it RM 4000 per day! I am seriuosly being dissappointed with the act of the police force. It's as if they are imaginary since they claimed that they could do nothing about it. And these kind of crimes will continue and it'll be even worse as there's no action being take and these culprits will happily commit these crimes without being afraid of getting caught.

So, people! What you can do now is be more extra careful when you're dealing with your money. Always verify with the people you're sending money to, no matter how close he/she to you. And don't assume that your friend's/family's eamil account is not being hacked!

p/s: this is part of the conversation I got (the day after when he’s trying to con me again) And I got to know from maybank that he’s account is from kuching, Sarawak.

=jOcElYn= says (12:36 PM): hey
çhof??? says (12:36 PM):eh
=jOcElYn= says (12:36 PM): how are you??
çhof??? says (12:36 PM):fine lo
çhof??? says (12:36 PM):how about u?
=jOcElYn= says (12:36 PM): not very good not very bad
=jOcElYn= says (12:36 PM): haha
=jOcElYn= says (12:36 PM):just fine like u
=jOcElYn= says (12:36 PM):you getting prettier!
çhof??? says (12:36 PM): :P
çhof??? says (12:37 PM):no la
=jOcElYn= says (12:37 PM):no need shy le
çhof??? says (12:37 PM):u're prettier
=jOcElYn= says (12:37 PM):haha, no la
=jOcElYn= says (12:37 PM): i ugly one
=jOcElYn= says (12:37 PM):eh, do you have maybank2u acc?
çhof??? says (12:38 PM):why?
=jOcElYn= says (12:38 PM): dunno why i can't login to the site since yesterday
=jOcElYn= says (12:38 PM): u manage to login?
çhof??? says (12:39 PM):erm.. ya
=jOcElYn= says (12:39 PM): i think my pc got virus already
=jOcElYn= says (12:40 PM):the page cannot finish load
çhof??? says (12:42 PM):oh! really?
çhof??? says (12:42 PM):u din install antivirus meh?
=jOcElYn= says (12:43 PM): got scan but took very long time so i always press cancel..haha
=jOcElYn= says (12:43 PM): can u do me a favor?
çhof??? says (12:43 PM):aiyoo
çhof??? says (12:43 PM):u better scan it properly la
çhof??? says (12:43 PM):else ur data all gone lagi teruk
=jOcElYn= says (12:43 PM): i need to transfer money to my fren and been delaying hin since yesterday...u help me to bank in can? i bank in back to u this evening when i go out
çhof??? says (12:46 PM):ooo
çhof??? says (12:46 PM):why so urgent geh?
=jOcElYn= says (12:46 PM): cause delayin him very long already. i feel so bad
=jOcElYn= says (12:46 PM): can u help me?
çhof??? says (12:47 PM):ohh
çhof??? says (12:47 PM):who is that?
=jOcElYn= says (12:47 PM): my fren, i asked him help me buy some stuff and he already send to item and yet i still havent paid him
çhof??? says (12:49 PM):eh, u din go back hometown ar?
=jOcElYn= says (12:49 PM): nolar
=jOcElYn= says (12:49 PM): can u help me or not?
çhof??? says (12:49 PM):wait wait
çhof??? says (12:49 PM): i'm loading the page
çhof??? says (12:49 PM):also vry slow lo
çhof??? says (12:50 PM):my connection very slow
çhof??? says (12:50 PM):sooo sorry
=jOcElYn= says (12:50 PM):u using dial up?
=jOcElYn= says (12:50 PM): or streamyx?
=jOcElYn= just sent you a nudge.
=jOcElYn= says (12:54 PM):
çhof??? says (1:17 PM):y not i send cheque to u or pass cash to u?
çhof??? says (1:19 PM):ok ma?
=jOcElYn= says (1:19 PM): i need to transfer the money to him now
=jOcElYn= says (1:19 PM): pass me cash also no use
=jOcElYn= says (1:19 PM): he's in malacca
=jOcElYn= says (1:19 PM): i got money in my maybank2u just can't log in!
çhof??? says (1:20 PM):oh
çhof??? says (1:20 PM):u give me ur fren's acc then
çhof??? says (1:20 PM):so i can transfer when the page loaded finish
=jOcElYn= says (1:20 PM):u manage to log on now?
=jOcElYn= says (1:21 PM): 1111-1428-6194 kew min teck

Thinking back I still naively talked to her and didn't suspect a thing. Heck, no wonder she sounded so different! Luckily I didn't even have Maybank account.