Showing posts with label Living in Bkk. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Living in Bkk. Show all posts

Monday, December 26, 2011

Christmas 2011

Previously when my brother was still around, we'd celebrate Christmas at his place - a round of makan to be followed by the gift exchange routine for the kids. Nothing fancy, they always got those cheap toys which they got bored after 5 minutes or so. And very often, we'd bring out a cake for gooly as his birthday is just days after Christmas.

So, if you asked me, Christmas has been quite routine for quite a number of years.

This year, we celebrated Christmas in Bangkok. On the very first day we arrived, decorations at the malls has already put us in the festive mood. We took loads of pictures like what tourists normally do.

The first gifts that we received were by papah's accountant. She gave me a shopping bag (knowing how much I love bags! Papah must have been telling them stories! *frown*), a pretty dress for lolly, and a bouncy lion for gooly. Now, i must say that i am always anxious when someone gives gooly pressies by surprise. You know, what if he gives a bah! when he doesn't like it? And when i saw the stuff toy, i was thinking that he has outgrown cuddly cutey toys, and got really apprehensive about his reaction. But thank goodness, he gave a big genuine smile and started laughing while bouncing the lion away. He said thank you and gave the lady a hug. She is obviously smitten by his actions.

I know the lion wasnt really his "thing" (he wants soldiers and army stuff now) but he was really being nice and polite and most importantly, thankful for the present he received.

And then he told us that he really wanted a set of those tiny soldiers with tanks and missiles and other cool stuff. He has been eyeing it at the 7-11 nearby our place. We bluffed and said we are not getting him any. He didnt whine or complained much. And then we got it for him, secretly. For 129 baht. Lol. He woke up feeling on top of the world when he saw it the next day. And started to believe in santa, cos we just wanted to magicked the whole thing. And for him to truly believe that he has been a wonderful child. We tell him that all the time. I guess when santa says it, its even more special. :)

And then today was papah's company dinner - a food and karaoke affair. Quite an experience for us to be surrounded by happy jolly locals belting out isaan songs. Lots of clapping and dancing. Wanted to shuffle but didnt think it was appropriate. Again, we received presents. This time, we got a set of tshirts for the four of us, with the kingdom's animal icon - the elephant sewn on them. I was really touched, and to show my appreciation, quickly changed lolly into it, and asked gooly to do the same. I am so glad he obliged. He was strutting proudly in it- so happy to be wearing an identical shirt as his baby.

We also had the gift exchanging program which was a bit complicating, imho. There were electrical aplliances, ang pows, hampers and a huge panda (as tall as gooly). Before that, Gooly was really serious about choosing the right gift for the program. He really wanted it to be special, hoping that the someone who gets his gift will be extremely happy. I thought that was awfully sweet because its so darn hard to buy a present when you dont know who is it for.. So i was really getting bored and just wanted to get it over and done with. Like, here, buy this tissue box and go! But nooooo.... He gave his heart and soul into it. And chose a watch instead for that lucky person. :)

And he got a set of comforter in return. In pink! Dissappointed of course. But graciously decided to give it to his beloved sister or someone more needy.

And so it has been a simple affair - one that tells the meaning of christmas in its own way.

One that shows how easy it is to make my son happy.(note: his birthday is just days away. I havent planned anything, bought anything..in fact thought of anything related to it. And he hasnt either because, he will be happy no matter what we do on that day. I know he will be thankful with whatever gifts, parties, cakes. Or without, i hope)

One that highlights his big, gracious and thankful heart.

One that i wish to remember.

How was your christmas?

Friday, June 17, 2011

Bangkok flashback

We used to stay in Bangkok, Gooly and I. For 4 years. A period I deem not long enough. If I could, I really would have stayed on with Papah. Alas, due to various reasons (which DO NOT involve the authority) we reluctantly bade farewell to the Kingdom of Smiles in 2009.

This morning, a friend posted a video (on FB) which was produced by the Tourism of Thailand (I think). As the images of Thailand showing its beauty and charm reeled before my (misty) eyes, I realized that I miss the kingdom.

A lot. *sniff*

Of course, when I first moved there, I hated it. (Homosapiens have this very annoying and lousy mechanism called "adapting to new life.") I didn't like their 'maipenrai' (never mind, it's ok) culture - something which I translated very unfairly as to the Thais having very lackadaisical attitude. This sentiment is clearly reflected in my very first few posts, with regards to 'living in Bangkok.'

But as I got to know the locals better and understand, adapt and accept their way of life, I find that people of Thailand are very charming. Again, the feelings were reflected in the latter posts.

I miss giving and receiving 'wais' - the gentle mannerism of clasping the two hands with head slightly bowed which I find very humbling. No matter how many times I do it, I do not exude the beauty and grace of the action. Little Thai girls even give a little curtsy when they 'wai'. But apparently they can't over-do it lest they be called pompous. It's the same when the ladies talk. It's ok to have opinions but not be overtly confident. It's all about striking a balance, I suppose. I find all these very amusing.

I made a very grave mistake when I first moved there though. Intrigued by the gentleness of the action, I was giving 'wais' freely to the kids in my neighbourhood. Aiyayaya..... To my embarrassment, I found out that a 'wai' is not to be given to a child as it is believed to bring them bad luck. Khor tod ka..I didn't know.

Likewise, one should not touch the head of a person. Do not ruffle a kid's head as a form of affection like we often do here. And so, one day, I found an older child using his two hands to cup Gooly's face while saying, "Nalaak." (cute). I find his method equally affectionate, if not more.

I remember my kind old neighbors. The one on my left spoke very little English. But she still ratlled on in thai to me every day. Something I found a lil annoying at first cos I was tired of saying, "Mai kau jai." (I don't understand). But now, I miss her toothless smiles, and wonder a lot how they are and if Nong Bang, her son has gone through the operation which will make him not limp anymore.

I wonder if the little girl with down syndrome has gone to school.

I wonder if they remember me as fondly as I do of them.

Someone once said I'm a Thainese. She meant it as a joke. But I think it's cool. And therefore, I declare, I'm a Thainese - through and through.

Sawadeeka.

Monday, November 8, 2010

Kira kira satu tahun lepas..

When I left Bangkok a year ago, nobody knew I was leaving for good. I didn't tell anyone my intention. Not even the guards. Not even Ada's mom.

I guess I was just not good in saying babais.

Or maybe I just didn't want to say gubai (spelling it wrongly makes it easier).

And so I left my collection of bags, shoes and rubbish there.

And absolutely left my heart there too.

I remember it was an ungodly early morning flight. We left a drawing done by Gooly with the words, SEE YOU SOON in the post box for Ada's family. (it sounds like we jau-loe like that now.)

Little did they know SOON is 300 odd days later....

Yup..I am going to Bangkok. I think I am ready to say good bye to the kingdom properly this time. Weird that it sounds - that I am actually going there to bid farewell. But yeah.. I am gonna do the things that I had forgotten to do whilst I was there (for 4 years)... probably re-visit places that I really adored like Tonglor.

... and then to watch Siam Niramit, maybe.

... and then to Hua Hin and collect some shells (and pee in the sea.)

... to Central World to reminisce and curse those trouble makers.

... eat somtom and eat it like I am filling a 30 years quota.


This time I vow to take more pictures - the rice, the water, the clouds, the stray dogs. Basically everything Bangkok!

And then I will sing TIME TO SAY GOODBYE - with strong emotions at the airport on my departure date..

It's gonna be an awesome trip!

Monday, December 21, 2009

CHRISTMAS LORRR!











MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US FROM ALASKA POSTCODE 47400, Bangkok!!!!!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Hamsap?

The other day, somebody told me:

Ploy was kissed by a boy in school!!! Two times!!!

So my face was kinda stoned. I think it has a little expression of, "SO? What's the problem?" too. But sensing the response will be considered socially inept, I quickly re-arrange my face muscles and wrecked my brain for a better reply. You see the extra exclamation marks? They make her speech sounded really urgent and full of apprehension. Her face made obvious hints that read, "WHAT A CRIME!"

So with my Oscar winning acting skill, I said, "OMG!!!! Where? On the cheeks or on the mouth???"

Ok, that was so wrong too. Cos she looked at me with a DURH face. But she was still eager to share the remaining story.

"It was the face! The mom told the boy, if you do it again, the police man will come catch you!"

Waaaaaaahhhhhh. I started sweating profusely cos Gooly has the tendency to do that!! Imagine landing your arse in the prison at age 5 for kissing a girl on the cheek (not even the butt cheek wei!).

Ok, so I dunno. We have to take into consideration :
a. the Thai culture factor
b. the geographical factor
c. the socio-economy factor
d. the environmental factor
e. the menstruation factor
f. the X factor

...Any of the above could have triggered such a response from the victim's mom.

Urhm... what would you have done? If your girl is being kissed, or your boy is the kisser? Their age category is... let's just say..they don't qualify to ride on THE DOUBLE BIG WHOOPER ROLLER COASTER RIDE in The Lost World of Tambun. Oh, and also they are still paying half price for buffets.

I seriously think Gooly will kiss a girl next year. Because he sayang her and likes her. Is that wrong?

*beat chest* Son....... you don't go prison, son........Don't kiss a girl until you can buy alcohol, son.. Waaaaaahhhh...

Seriously, because I don't have a daughter.. and being less protective over my son naturally..Please tell me is kissing or any other sayang actions considered taboo?

If you have no kids, think about your dogs. Is it ok, if another bloke come and smell your bi*ch ass? Or even just humping for kicks with no sexual commitment?

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Matahari







Can you believe it? I have been wanting to visit the sunflower farm since last year?


And can you actually believe that 2 hours away from Bangkok, there are such beautiful sunflower farms? Well, neither did I. The sunflowers only bloom from Nov-Jan. So it's quite hard for tourists to catch the season. And that is why these fields are like hidden troves, unspoiled by too many visitors.


Gosh! They were so lovely. Van Gogh must have felt the same way as he painted them.


Albeit being brightly coloured, I think sunflowers are such lonesome plants. Such a solitary journey, from seeds to buds to blooms. I wonder if they feel violated when bees and butterflies visit uninvited.

And when the wind blows against them, you can almost see their struggle to stand tall and dignified. They look a little proud even. And when they wither, they have such sad expressions. Oh well, all flowers do. Kinda like tau tap tap.

I absolutely love the pic of Gooly with his papah. Such happy smiles from both of them.

Love his sunnies too. Silly. And totally match the backdrop.

I present these flowers to each and every one of you, ok? Don't let the bee sting your nose this time! Tee hee.. Hmm, I wonder if Lonely Planet knows about the existence of these fields.

UNTUKMU~ (No bees lah, this time never bluff you..)

P/s: I think plants talk to me. I try to ignore them most of the time. What did you think? That I will talk back to them? You think I am crazy??! (No need to answer...)

Monday, December 7, 2009

Another enemy

Yesterday, late at night.....

I thought it was raining. Pitter patter...

And then I realized it wasn't, as I looked out the window. So what could it be?

And then I remembered that my laundry was spinning, could it be....? Darn! Yep, the drainage hole was blocked - making my balcony flooded, and water was streaming down to the unit below.

I looked down and saw an angry face stared up at me..#*$@)$@!!))$*, he yelled.

Sorry sorry sorry sorrry -lah! But I didn't know how to explain the shituation.

Not long later, I heard a knock on the door. I of course, became deaf voluntarily and used the blanket to cover over my head.

So now, anyone of you know how to write a letter of apology in French for the Thai-man downstairs with visible tattoos and possibly a rifle? Meanwhile, should I wear a see-thru lingerie when I pass the letter to him? (For what, I also dunno)

*my translation - so late wash what clothes, you crazy mitch! You wait there..I coming to get you..Just wait there....~

Friday, November 27, 2009

Totally non of your biz

Last Friday was Hari Raya Haji, a public holiday in my homeland, Alaska. Thus, many monkeys were not online. One went to Spore, and another downloading lame movies, I presume.

Oh well, I was forced to go out then.

Put on a new jumper, my minnie-mouse lookalike polka doted hairband and a pair of 99 baht plastic shoes. The most comfortable, I tell you. The original Crocs must be like that.


Looked for a matching bag. Tadaa...


And bought a coupon for the shuttle van. Did I tell you our apartment has shuttle service? How cool is that? I swear, the van is cleaner than ours. And the driver.. *giggle nudge nudge* is handsome. I always wonder who the heck takes the 12 seater van cos it's always just me in it. The ride to the mall is 25 bahts. The taxi usually cost me around 60bahts.

Throughout the whole journey in the van, I wondered what I should do with the 35 bahts I saved. 3 Mc D i-screams, perhaps? And then I realized I have forgotten to apply underarm deodorant. Urrgh! If you didn't notice, I didn't want to say armpits as I was being polite.

With sweaty erm, underarms, I went looking for food and decided on a salad buffet, considering that I haven't defecated that day. After munching like a cow, I got sick of the colour green, and got bored of myself. Dang.. 145bahts for two plates of peas. I suck big time at buffets.

Oh, and I used the same plate twice cos I'm being environMENTAL. Didn't want to waste water and soap washing extra plates. Yeah.. bring me to buffets, and I will embarrass you with stunts like that.

And then I roamed around aimlessly.

So that was Friday for me. I was completely alone. Not that I am complaining.

The end.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

I CAN DO IT

There is this girl whom I see almost everyday downstairs. She has the cutest curls and the pudgiest thighs you would wanna chomp on.

The first time I met her was at the pool. The adult pool. She was swimming confidently that I thought she has taken lessons before. But no, that was her first time. According to her mom, she declared that she wanted to swim and swim, she did.

Today, she asked permission to ride on Gooly's bicycle. Seeing that she is half the size of the bicycle and possesses no bicycle license before, I asked, "Can you do it?" She confidently said in a booming voice, "I CAN DO IT!" and she clambered on and rode away.

She has never ridden a bike nor a trike before. The confidence she exudes is amazing. There is no fear in her eyes, I tell you.

For that, I salute her. I do admire her gutsy attitude.

Oh, I forgot to mention that she is only 3. Teehee. Really cute.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

:-)

Last Friday, I started the morning with a meaningless discussion with the "Muvi King" on the movie "Jennifer's Body" which put me in a jolly good mood.

Despite it being Friday the 13th, another thing happened that put another smile on my face.

Thnx so much for the books. Sorry I only saw them today cos I wasn't here yesterday. The kids made something for you to say thank you!

I received that message on FB.

You see, I asked the teacher to help make some Christmas cards for a charity drive. The kids in her class did a marvelous job with the cutest snowmen and pine trees. As a gesture of appreciation, I sent over some pre-loved books to be placed at the corner of the classroom. And whadaya know.. the kindness bounces back with a nice card that warms my heart.


And also, not too long ago, I went into a bag shop and found out that the amicable owner shares the same name as me. I left without buying anything as the bags were pricey. I did leave my number with her though. And she called me one fine day, informing me that a key chain has been made for me. How strange (in a nice way)!

Anyways, I was just nearby yesterday, and decided to pop in to say Hi, not sure if she still remembers me. Well, she does...and she actually kept the key chain for me. A bling bling key chain with the word C.O.A.C.H. Not authentically Coach of course. But who is complaining? It's very very very bling and cute! I will snap a pic of it one of these days..

Alas I didn't buy anything again. I was poor the first time, and poorer the second. But she was still nice to me. And even thanked me for coming by.

I was so happy that I went on to buy two pairs of shoes. (Totally not related, eh?) :P

How was your weekend? Another is coming! Yay!

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

City of Angels Part 2

We just got a water heater.. Yeah..like finally.

So this morning, the Carrefour people came to install it. And I remembered that I have the shower curtain which I bought eons ago..Yeah..like finally, I can have it installed too. Yippee.


So I politely asked if he could drill the holes for me. He said sure.. where is the rod.

Rod? What rod? Oh that rod.. nah.. I don't have it. *giggles* Can't you just drill the hole.. and I'll go get the rod ..like next year.

(Yeah.. I am that weird. I bought the shower curtains sans the rod, cos I was lazy to carry it, I think. Or I didn't have enough money .. Or I knew that I don't have an electric drill to drill the damn holes)

OK.. so the man said, "Why don't you go get it? They sell it in Carrefour (which is not far from my home),you know? I don't mind waiting."

And I said, "Nah, it's ok.. I don't have a car."

"Oh, I can bring you there."

"Mai pen rai. It's ok!" (geesh.. you are so weird, driller man!)

And then.... and then....

He went to buy it for me! Well, he said something about Carrefour has.. and bla bla bla...Since my thai is so mediocre, I was half wondering if he was actually gonna go out and get it for me, while the other half of my brain was saying, "Don't be silly.. Nobody does that!"

But he and his assistant left the apartment, leaving me mouth slightly agape, wondering if they went for lunch or to buy a rod for me.

30 minutes later. He came back with a rod! With a receipt from Carrefour! No extra charges.

Aww.. that can only happened like once in a lifetime ok? Total random kindness from strangers!

Wait, something similar happened before.

Oh I am right! Here! and Here!

Ah..Bangkok's ceremonial name is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit. It translates to "The city of angels, the great city, the eternal jewel city, the impregnable city of God Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, abounding in an enormous Royal Palace that resembles the heavenly abode where reigns the reincarnated god, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukarm".

How apt. :)

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Random kindness

While taking a dump, I was reading Reader's Digest. Yeah yeah.. I am geeky in that sense. I *heart* Reader's Digest, Chicken Soups and Ikea Catalogues during shitty moments (literally.)

So there was this section in the latest copy of RD about random kindness. The gist of the story:

A heavily pregnant lady was walking toward her car in a light drizzle. She was carefully treading the puddles of water when a car stopped, and out came a chap, holding out an umbrella. He escorted her to her car. And the next day, to pay it forward, she gave her umbrella to two construction workers caught in the rain in front of her house.

That happened in your country, Tuti. :)

What random kindness have you done or received before?

Well, I have once helped a blind man to cross the road. That was like ..heh.. 15 yrs ago. But yeah.. I once helped a blind man to cross the road. *proud*

I think I may have received acts of kindness more than I have done. Just this afternoon, when I got down from the cab, holding Gooly's bag, and a grocery bag (while attempting to dig my nose), the guard hurried over to hold the cab door for me. I quickly abandoned my gold digging mission

Not only that, he carried Gooly's bag even with my protest of mai pen rai ka.. I can manage ja~.

And then he pressed the button on the lift, held the door open, asked which floor I live in, parked the bag next to me, and 'tabik'-ed me.

Ah... nice.

I must have kapkunkaa-ed and smiled and bowed my head slightly a million times. Just my gestures of appreciation.

Any kindness stories you wanna share? Oh.. did I tell you the time I helped a blind man crossed the street..? *voice fades out*

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

This is it

OK.. after doing the mundane stuff day in day out - walking across to 7-11 for lunch, discussing politics with intellectual friends * and staring into space, I finally did it!

I went to the movie, alone.

This is it! My inaugural loser-ish activity.

I aptly chose This Is It to watch after reading a 'popcorn' review about it. I must say I quite enjoy the solo journey to Hollywood. In fact, I have marked Avatar, Julia & Julie and 2012 for my next rendezvous after watching the sneak peaks.

I will not go for horror, scary, ghostly, hantwo movies. Ah-ah~ Not even with free movie passes. Throw in the popcorn, I still won't go.

Hmm..what else can I do alone? Since I am already branded as LOSER on my forehead by him.

The end.

Oh, my take on the movie? 3 stars out of 5. 1 for MJ's quirky fashion sense, 1 for the dancers with 6-pack washboard abs, 1 for The Message about Saving Planet Earth. I'd have given 4 stars if Jay Chou sang a duet with him.

*do not believe everything I say...

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Winter Is Here

Yesterday was Loy Krothong. The festival always marks the end of rainy season and the beginning of winter.

True enough, we woke this morning with gentle zephyrs blowing into our faces. Gooly was gleeful and commented, "Happy Windsday, Mom.. I like this weather." Yes, any sweaty boy would, my dear son. :)

So, it's aircond off - wind ala au de naturale for now. It's 12 pm now. I'm in the room with just an open window.


I like.

Don't be blown away, Gooly!
Looking preppy.

Do love stories begin at age 4?

The Kratongs

Yesterday was Loy Kratong. I will not go into details about the huge disappointment I had at the party downstairs, after having experienced the real fun one last year at the old mooban.

Say, I didn't explain what Loy Kratong is all about at the old post.. Tsk tsk.. I knew it was something about paying homage to the Water Goddess, and also the act of floating the krathong is to bring luck. But because Gooly's school was also celebrating the festival, I had to google for more information. So.. here comes your enlightenment.. Heheh.

Loy means to float. Kratong is the lotus shaped vessels. They used to make them with banana leaves, but now Styrofoams are abundantly used. Kinda ironic that you thank the Water Goddess by polluting her territories with rubbish and such, eh? Anyways, when you 'loy' the kratong, it is believed you are floating away all your sadness and anger and bad luck or all negative vibes, in short. (I loy-ed yesterday. So I don't hate you anymore.. *pointing at you*) If you are darn serious about loy-ing, you could even cut a bit of your hair or fingernails and put them in the kratongs. It's like a solemn vow that you are cutting off the lousy bits from your mind and soul. (To stop hating you, I'd probably have to cut a liver and half a heart out. Kakakkaka!)

Gooly was a farmer in the dance, I think. The costumes were all very gaudy but colourful nonetheless.


Oei, this is not the intention of my posting today! Alamak..

I want to talk about love and friendship.

Yesterday, at the appointed time, we waited downstairs for Ada. We then spotted a few kids from school who have come to join the so-called party at the pool side. They were from Ada's class, not Gooly's.

Naturally I thought, "Oh, would Ada still play with Gooly?" seeing that there are other kids now, one of them being being a girl, and all, whom she may be closer to since they spend a whole lot of time together in the same class.

When she came, we heard shouts of, "Here comes Ada..there..she is here.. Ada Ada Ada!"

I could tell from Gooly's face that he was feeling kinda.. how do I explain? Lost, perhaps? He managed a feeble, "Ada~"

And that dear little girl's face lighten up, walked straight to Gooly, and smiled a very sweet smile for him. Awww...

Now the rest of the gang was beginning to wonder who this bloke was, 'stealing' away their princess. (One was kinda big sized.. could have easily punched Gooly.)

In the end, they played together. But Gooly would always extend his hand out and Ada would shyly accept it. They would run off with the gang tailing behind. It's quite funny to watch- imagine, a scene of the bride being absconded.


It's comforting to know that you have a friend, eh Gooly? ;-)

Do you have a kindy bestie whom is still a bestie to you at present? I'm sure they two would have such fond memories of each other. I'm glad, to say the least. :)

Sunday, October 25, 2009

The King and I - Part "Song" (that's 2 in thai)

The other day, I was waiting for Papah at the mall. Or was I waiting for a taxi? Never mind.. before I digress further...

So I was there (posing hiaohiao-ly) when I realized that there was a platform built with a gargantuan picture of His Majesty the King. Nothing unusual, his posters are everywhere.

You may not know but HM is critically ill at the moment. And so the platform and long tables with notebooks are everywhere for commoners to convey their well-wishes.

As I sat there, I saw many people, young and old alike, wanting to write down their messages in the book. Some walked past in a flurry then decided to make a u-turn instead. They looked at the poster with strong emotions, gave a respectful 'wai', and proceeded to write their wishes to the King.

There must be at least hundreds of messages in the books. Combined with other booklets in other participating malls, I am sure the number reach up to thousands, if not hundred thousands.

You may wonder if the King reads the messages. He may not, but who cares? Sometimes we just love, without needing the person to know what we have done or said.

Everyone in this Kingdom wishes the King well and healthy. Including inhabitants like us. Don't know how, but we had grown to respect and honour him too.

Song Phra Charoen.

International Cultural Day








Ms Sweden, Ms Japan, Ms India, Mr Malaysia

It was a chaotic day with lots of colours and tears (from the kids.) They kicked off the event with the usual assembly. Then followed by a parade by the kids holding flags. The song "It's A Small World" was put on repeat mode, giving me a huge headache.

It's a small world after all
It's a small world after all
It's a small word after all
(Oh shuddap already!)

The kids didn't know how to march properly yet. (heheh! What did I expect?) Some were crying but still forced to make the rounds. The principal was very panicky, reminding the kids to hold the flags up, not down..afraid of being accused of being disrespectful to the respective countries.

"Hold up..hold it up! Wave...! Wave..! Smile and wave.."


The teacher decided to add "Nama saya.." at the very last minute. Thus there was a slight hiccup in Gooly's short speech because he didn't rehearse that line with me at home. But once he got the flow, the speech went on smoothly. His Malaysia Boleh at the end was spunky, garnering lots of cheers from the audience.

Master France's mommy was very proud of her son's merci and bonjour speech. She teared a little. It was touching to watch a mommy feeling so awed at her child's ability to stand in front of a crowd speaking in his mother tongue. I imagined her thinking, "My boy ..that's my boy.. so brave.. !" In french of course. I reckon he must have been a shy boy.

Miss Malaysia? Me? What dya mean I am not Miss Malaysia?

Ok..fine fine.. The mommy of Master Malaysia (geesh! such a long noun!) was equally proud. Beaming and swelling with pride the moment he donned on his national costume. He, btw looked smashing, thanks to "you know who you are" for sending it all the way from home.

Oh, I made bergedil in small quantity which was a good thing because the amount of food sponsored or cooked was way too much. The buffet spread which consisted of Italian Pizza, sushis, kimchis, curry, cakes and others was on par with those served in hotels.

Burp! I wonder what happened to the leftovers.

If it wasn't for the food, I wouldn't have gone!

Kidding........ Of course I wouldn't have missed it for anything. My son..representing Malaysia for the first time.. at age four. *beam*

Okeh! One event down.. few more to go. It's Halloween next week. Meanwhile, enjoy the short video.



Friday, October 23, 2009

Evening conversations

Whilst the kids play, we chat, gossip, exchange news, joke, insult each other - Ada's mom and I.

Sometimes we sit on the slide. Other times on benches near to the pond. My favourite is on the deck, overlooking the swimming pool where there is a patch of grass for the kids to jump or goof around.

Our conversations cover an array of topics - from boring stuff like the humid weather to useful information on MIL-proofing the house. But mostly we talk about the kids.

"Does Gooly eat whatever that's being served?"

"Does Ada still cry when she doesn't get things her way?"

"Does Gooly turn on the Tv the moment he comes back from school?"

"Does Ada brush her own teeth?"

We are truthful and frank with our answers. By that, we don't mean to compare our kids like some crap people do. We just wanted to know.

Today at the deck, we were seated on wooden chairs, al -fresco - looking at the kids running at top speed to a halt at the edge of the pool, when she suddenly asked, "Do you think we see other kids' advantages more when we are not the parents?"

"You mean like you see a lot of good things in Gooly?" I seek clarifications, without feeling shameful.

"Ya!" she also answered un-bashfully.

That's a nice compliment. It doesn't mean she was making a comparison and concluded that her daughter is not good enough or as good as Gooly. She simply sees Gooly's good points and acknowledges it.

Most of the time, when talking about kids, parents brag about how well their own kids are doing. And when it's your turn to tell them your kids' achievements or talents, they respond with "uha" "ah" "mm" or any other mono-syllabic audibles which can only mean one thing - they don't care because their kids are still the best-est in the whole wide animal kingdom world.


.....which is not wrong. But it's just over-the-top and plain rude.


So when Ada's mom said what she said just now, I was immensely pleased. Now that's what I call a non-plasticky conversation, which btw lasted till the sun set and mozzies were buzzing in our ears.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Banjir

Yesterday morning, I received a message telling me that Ada didn't go to school because the main road was flooded.


I see. I see.


Flood. Cool. I remember there once was a flood at my aunt's place. Everyone got exited, especially the kids because swimming pools were not so accessible then. So the idea of wading in murky 'teh tarik' water was inviting.


I was still in a nostalgic mood when reality struck me.


Ada not being in school meant that Gooly has no transport home. And papah was away (again). And taxis were neither coming in nor going out of the school area.


Aiyaya.. that could only mean one thing.


I have to brave the storm to rescue my son from school (for drama and comedy effect).


I really didn't know what to expect. Some say the water level was knee high, some say it was waist high. I suppose it depends on height, which means the water was probably ONLY at my ankle. *ahem*

First sight of water. Not too bad. Clear water. I bet there were fishes. Note how dainty my feet are?


And then.. it got deeper. But I was walking on the pavement. So it was okay. I don't know why that dungu fella was desperate to get into the Shell Kiosk. Probably so that he could appear in my pictures. Dang! I fell into his trap!


Petrol, anyone?

Reached school in bikinis safely. Announced to Gooly that we were wading back. Had to leave his bag behind cos there was no way to lug it through the water.

Yipee! Water! Water!

The deepest was probably around his knee. I had to roll up his pants when crossing the river path.

There! I was right! Fishy~ albeit dead. Dinner was Fried Rice with Anchovy (note: no plural here)



We got home after ..uhm.. gee.. I forgot to check the time. I was busy rehearsing my delayed weather broadcast for you people, you see.


But! When we got home, I was so darn tired that I wished it wouldn't rain for the next 100 years. (If every of my wish comes true, I'd have been a millionyeir last Sunday - lottery day. So don't worry about drought in Bangkok, k?)


Sigh! It's so rainy these days that a water-proof poncho is a must. This style makes him look like Chickedee, minus the wattles. I like.

Rain rain, go away, won't ya? Ok.. come.. but not so much, ya?

Saturday, October 10, 2009

A ride for three

You know, Ada's dad has something really cool.

No-lah, it's not a Lamborghini.

If he had that, I'd use 'mid-life crisis' as an adjective. Not cool.

So what is it?

Heh.. it's a motorized bicycle. A family bike with tandem seats in front and at the back. One for Ada, and one for the mum.


How cool is that?

It warms my heart when I see them zooming by in the evening, always teasing us with a grring grring when they spot us.

Gooly will then ask for rides too. He takes the back seat. He is a bit shy to put his arms around Uncle A's belly, so he just parks them at the hip area. And Uncle A would accelerate (needs no pedaling, remember?), and the two kids have this permanent smile fixed on their flushed faces.The gentle wind would be blowing their hair.. it's really a great way to wind down the day.

Just now we were at the pool, when Ada came by as a pillion rider on her dad's cool bike. After some chats, they were heading back. So Ada waved, and when the bike jerked forward a bit, she went "Wooooahhh!"

Gooly giggled himself silly and said, "Be careful, Ada! Hold on tight!!'

And the bike went off, just in time for us to hear her echo of, "OOOOOOKKKKKKKK~~~ "

Really cute.

I *heart* life's simple pleasures. Riding with dad is one of them. Riding as a family? Even better!

LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails

background