I'm no soldier, but I got soul.

#304

2012-01-30T10:37:00.002+11:00

Kak Geeann is back home for my wedding! Yahoo! Kak Gee Ann has always been like an older sister to me, I spent most of my childhood years with her. We both went through a 'Harriet the Spy' phase, I was her young side-kick, we also used to play masak-masak, where she would cook exquisite invisible meals for me. I remembered one time, my late uncle, Papa Cho (kak Gee Ann's dad) got her, her first analog camera. It was pink in color, but then again, back then half of her things were pink (haha!) she would dress me up in her own creations and take photos of me (Kak Gee Ann you remember? ha-ha I found the photo somewhere!).

Now that many years have come to past, she never ceases to inspire me. She cooks really scrumptious meals that are not make-believe, she runs a fashion boutique in Melbourne and is on the way to be a full-fledged architect.

Insya'Allah, Allah S.W.T will watch over you and always bless you :) I love you Kak GeeAnn!

#303

2012-01-30T03:30:00.006+11:00

Heart palpitations have been frequent, merely two days away! Had a nice long chat with Iman, was making up for those past couple of weeks absent from each other's proximity and less than 5 minute phone conversations which was driving us a bit wonky (well, one of us)! but insya'Allah all that would be cured this Thursday (:

Last night was an eventful night! Sarah and Awin organized my hen's night party. The theme was Mad Hatter's tea party, I obviously came as Alice (in wonderland). Would love to post photos, but due to it being a girl's only party, I was off with my hijab.

I left the house looking like this:

make up by Auntie Susah Oh of Benefit Robinson, Gardens Mid valley.

Sarah did not realize I had a big bow hidden under my hijab, the entire road trip went like this "how on earth are you Alice?" I replied "wait and see."

Kah Mun, Cousin K, Nabilah, Jessica & Brenda.

Sarah's childhood friend Mardhy, Cousin M, Awin, Irene & Andrea.

Playing Taboo

It was a stellar rating night, despite some of my cousins and close friends could not make it. I enjoyed the companion nevertheless! Thank you to all of you who made time to spent my last few days as a bachelorette.

Apart from that, spent the whole Sunday afternoon at Nena's watching the Pioneers of dowry tray architects craft their masterpiece. I had no say or whatever except for choice of flowers, color and thread. the rest was left to them;

Bridezilla Diva #1 - My dearest Ayah

Well, ~~tomorrow~~ later today will be yet another busy day, I've got my make up trial with Teyn and I need to pick up my wedding dresses. I am stoked in excitement, it's really a roller coaster journey I kid you not! But insya'Allah all worth it. Nothing great is ever easy to achieve, but with patience and faith, and with God's will, greatness will be attain. Assalamualaikum, and good night!

Xian ni Kuai le

2012-01-27T23:00:00.001+11:00

sorry this is a bit delayed, but Gong Xi Fat Chai! May the Mighty Water dragon brings you good health and prosperity :)

#302

2012-01-24T02:34:00.000+11:00

we're merely a week away to our nuptial. I am stoked with excitement. So far alhamdulilah, preperations are going well :) but I still got a lot of running around to do, no wonder I've gone trimmer these last couple of weeks :p Mom even noticed it too! *cues applause* My wedding dresses were altered 3 sizes down so that left a smile plastered on my face :D

#301

2012-01-19T19:51:00.000+11:00

13 days to our nuptial:

~~Kursus Kahwin~~: Completed, we went for the course way before he officially proposed.
~~HIV Test~~: Completed (Tested: NEGATIVE (alhamdulillah).
~~Solemnization Permission Registration~~: 100% Completed with Approval from JAIS & JAWI.

~~Makeup Artist~~: Lova Cinta & Teyn Nash

~~Photographer~~:// Raffi Th'ng (Nikah & Reception)
~~Wedding Ring~~: Bought :D
~~Materials for MOH & Tray Bearers~~: bought!
~~Material search for attires~~ (both mine & Iman’s) : bought, sent for tailoring!
~~Accessories:~~ Nena's Mikimoto pearls
Veil/Hijab: something in mind.
~~shoes~~:bought

~~Hand Bouquet~~: Poetry of Flowers.

Hantaran: 8/9
Wedding Dais: Poetry of Flowers (Nikah) & Duchess Place (Wedding reception)

~~Hantaran Trays~~: Loan from Nena Mon and Aunt.

Hantaran Deco: ~~bought fabric for cushion~~, searching for silk flowers.

~~Entertainment~~ : DJ Thoriq Azmi.
~~Emcee~~: Sara Ruzanna (cousin).

~~~~Venues~~: Booked and confirm (:~~

Décor & Theme: Pastels, Modern Chic.

~~~~Invitation~~: Completed!!!~~

#300

2012-01-16T20:17:00.003+11:00

What is up with Maine coon's and their death stare?

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

yikes!

#299

2012-01-16T16:52:00.000+11:00

There is no difference between a rich man's grave and a poor man's grave.

#298

2012-01-16T10:00:00.000+11:00

"There’s photoshop, auto tune, & plastic surgery. Too bad there’s nothing for your ugly personality." - lordStewie

Seventeen.

2012-01-15T16:53:00.001+11:00

the silence of this blog is so deafening! I apologize for the lack of updates as I haven't had much time to blog with our wedding being merely 17 days away!

I had my first bridal fitting last Friday. I was stoked with excitement and yet at the same time, terrified if I had put on any weight, but Alhamdulilah, I actually lost a few inches, so my dresses were loose! *cues applause*

The next two week before I embrace life as Mrs. Amirul is going to be very eventful insya'Allah! will be visiting the spa for my pre-bridal bath, the nail parlor for mani and pedis, the salon, my hen's night .. ahhhhhhhhhhhh! I'M GETTING MARRIED!!!!!!!!!!

Bridezilla face.

2012-01-06T10:56:00.001+11:00

ha-ha!

#297

2012-01-03T18:37:00.000+11:00

29 days to our nuptial:

~~Kursus Kahwin~~: Completed, we went for the course way before he officially proposed.
~~HIV Test~~: Completed (Tested: NEGATIVE (alhamdulillah).
~~Solemnization Permission Registration~~: 100% Completed with Approval from JAIS & JAWI.

~~Makeup Artist~~: Lova Cinta & Teyn Nash

~~Photographer~~:// Raffi Th'ng (Nikah & Reception)
~~Wedding Ring~~: Bought :D
~~Materials for MOH & Tray Bearers~~: bought!
~~Material search for attires~~ (both mine & Iman’s) : bought, sent for tailoring!
~~Accessories:~~ Nena's Mikimoto pearls
Veil/Hijab: nothing yet.
~~shoes~~:bought! (ready by January 3rd 2012).

~~Hand Bouquet~~: Poetry of Flowers.

Hantaran: 8/9
Wedding Dais: Poetry of Flowers (Nikah) & Duchess Place (Wedding reception)

~~Hantaran Trays~~: Loan from Nena Mon and Aunt.

Hantaran Deco: bought fabric for cushion, searching for silk flowers.

~~Entertainment~~ : DJ Thoriq Azmi.
~~Emcee~~: Sara Ruzanna (cousin).

~~~~Venues~~: Booked and confirm (:~~

Décor & Theme: Pastels, Modern Chic.

~~~~Invitation~~: Completed!!!~~

#296

2012-01-02T03:30:00.000+11:00

Listening to: F.U.N. - We are young

It is way past the witching hours; I am having yet another episode of insomnia. I did not get much sleep last night, and I am foreseeing the same with tonight. Despite having such an eventful day yesterday, my attempt of getting some shuteye has been futile.

I am uncertain if this is what brides2Be go through with merely a month to go to their upcoming nuptial… I cannot imagine one week prior to the wedding … I might get mistaken as Kungfu Panda’s bride………. ha-ha!

via Cafepress.com

#295

2012-01-01T22:06:00.000+11:00

Iman and our furry adopted daughter :)

Happy Year End, Happy New Year.

2011-12-31T10:56:00.001+11:00

Twelve months have come to past, making way for the New Year. 2011 has been a good year for me, Alhamdulilah, despite some minor set backs. Insya'Allah 2012 will be an even greater year for all of us. ameen.

#294

2011-12-26T18:26:00.001+11:00

No longer a part-time hijabi, insya'Allah (:

#293

2011-12-23T13:11:00.004+11:00

Meet Kenya, our new family member. An exact carbon copy of Chenai only she's a she :D oh, she's ... well semi crippled.

Forty-one days...

2011-12-22T19:43:00.000+11:00

image courtesy of Google.

gosh, I am starting to feel the plethora of butterflies flutter within me....!

#292

2011-12-16T00:00:00.001+11:00

It has been 5 years since I met Asma and her brother, Yusuf. It is amazing after all these years, it pretty much feel like we meet up often. It's so nice to have friends like them :) really am thankful to the Almighty :)

#291

2011-12-15T18:52:00.003+11:00

December is slipping by swiftly, and before you know it, January comes marching by. Our nuptial is shyly a month and two weeks away! I am stoked with excitement about sharing the rest of my life with Iman and Insha’Allah in Jannah too (: ameen.

#290

2011-12-12T17:10:00.001+11:00

We've got too much free time! lol

#292

2011-11-28T22:44:00.000+11:00

all mine in February insya'Allah ;)

#291

2011-11-28T17:42:00.000+11:00

Sara is back, for 4 days, she's leaving for London again this Tuesday! I missed her so much!

#291

2011-11-26T13:42:00.002+11:00

listening to: Listening to: SBTRKT - Hold On (Siavash Cold as Ice remix)

Here we are, under two-months-and-counting until our upcoming nuptial. I'm stoked with excitement! It felt like just the other day, Iman mustered all his courage to ask my father for my hand in marriage. And how every thing else fell into place :)

I can never thank Allah S.W.T enough. My parents and Iman's parents for supporting us when we decided to bring our relationship to the next level, thank you so much, only Allah knows how grateful I am. jazak'Allah Khair.

Insya'Allah the remaining 67 days would be a smooth sailing journey for us and our families. ameen.

#290

2011-11-24T11:25:00.000+11:00

So, I got myself a Custom made Blair, my third Blair (like one Blair wasn't enough!). I get myself a Sereni & Shentel hairband every time I reach my monthly target, and alhamdulilah I've reached this month's target, so yay!

#288

2011-11-20T09:25:00.000+11:00

Cake Glossary

White Butter
The traditional option, and with good reason: It tastes great with any filling or frosting. For a fresh turn, Kromer suggests pairing it with passion fruit or vanilla Swiss meringue buttercream.
Moist Yellow
Just a little bit richer than white butter, it's the second most popular choice of brides at Wendy Kromer Confections. When it comes to fillings and frosting, "the sky's the limit," she says.
Almond Dacquoise
Unexpected and nutty, this meringue is a nice complement to basic cake layers like white butter. "It's delicious with chocolate, praline, or even white-chocolate buttercream frosting and filling," says Kromer.
Lemon Poppy Seed
This refreshing cake "tastes best with citrus and vanilla flavors," she says. "Go with lemon curd and lemon buttercream or white-chocolate buttercream frosting."
Carrot
Spicy, sweet, and sometimes nutty, it's often coupled with cream cheese icing. Kromer likes to serve it with caramel-cream cheese or white-chocolate filling, or vanilla buttercream.
Red Velvet
It relies on cocoa for its chocolaty taste and a splash of red food dye for its dramatic color. "Try it with cream cheese frosting, or chocolate-hazelnut, chocolate, or caramel buttercream," she suggests.
Marble
Not only does it look cool, but it goes with just about everything. "It's great with fruit fillings, especially raspberry preserves," says Kromer. "The flavors come together really nicely."
Chocolate Butter
After white butter and moist yellow, this cake is third most popular. White or chocolate frosting is a typical pairing, but "apricot, pistachio, coffee, or rich caramel flavors are nice, too," she says.

Read more at Marthastewartweddings.com: Wedding Cakes by Flavor -- Martha Stewart Weddings

#286

2011-11-19T13:50:00.001+11:00

The hall where our Solemnization hall would take place insya'Allah :)

#285

2011-11-15T00:14:00.005+11:00

I apologize for the lack of substantial updates. November has been such a challenging month for my family & I Especially with my Nena being hospitalized as was in a comatose state for almost three days (but God is great, she regain consciousness today!) alhamdulillah! Although she is still very weak but she really is a tough cookie! Throughout her unfathomable slumber, she was constantly visited by family. Every hour of the day, we accompanied her and recited Quranic verses, God is so great, you cannot imagine how grateful we all are :) ameen.

Apart from being so blessed, wedding preparations have not come to a haul, with only 2 months , 2 weeks & 3 days a lot still needs to be done!

2 Months to our nuptial:

~~Kursus Kahwin~~: Completed, we went for the course way before he officially proposed.
~~HIV Test~~: Completed (Tested: NEGATIVE (alhamdulillah).
Solemnization Permission Registration: 45%

~~Makeup Artist~~: Lova Cinta & Teyn Nash

~~Photographer~~: Asyraf Lee & Wan.
~~Videographer~~: Zayan Yassin.
~~Wedding Ring~~: Bought :D
~~Materials for MOH & Tray Bearers~~: bought!
~~Material search for attires~~ (both mine & Iman’s) : bought, sent for tailoring!
Accessories: my own.
Veil/Hijab: nothing yet.
shoes: ~~Yellow Chuck Taylor's~~ ... I wish! Nothing Yet.

Hand Bouquet: Poetry of Flowers.

Hantaran: 6/9

Hantaran Trays: Loan from either Nena Mon or Aunt.

Hantaran Deco: searching for materials.

Entertainment: Nothing yet.
Emcee: Aunt

Venue: Booked and confirm (:

Décor & Theme: Pastels, Modern Chic.

Invitation: 80% completed

Color Scheme for Nikah (Solemnization)

2011-11-14T23:24:00.000+11:00

The Dulang Girls

The Maid of Honour

The Bride & Groom

#284

2011-10-30T20:35:00.003+11:00

making use of the last 3 months of my bachelorhood with my parents. I was so deprived of sleep after coming home from work at 2 a.m and had an appointment with a client prior to lunch at Kajang with Parental units. Despite the hot weather, and my sleep deprivation, it was a well spent sunday with my parents :)

Pumped up kicks

2011-10-28T22:30:00.000+11:00

my father reckons it is such a disturbing song,despite it's catchy tune.

#283

2011-10-25T22:40:00.000+11:00

Final designs of my wedding dresses, so happy this is finally sorted out! I can't wait! I'm stoked with excitement!

#282

2011-10-15T18:35:00.000+11:00

so adorable!

#281

2011-10-14T07:20:00.000+11:00

Both spouses should realize that the basis of married life is mutual understanding and its pillars are love and compassion. Hence their married life cannot be complete unless there is kind treatment on both sides.

# 280

2011-10-13T17:52:00.003+11:00

Abang Boy, your demise was unexpected to us all but I am sure Allah S.W.T knows best. Al-Fatihah. I am going to miss your witty comments and comebacks when we talk about politics... your jovial presence. Bless your soul. Ameen.

#279

2011-10-12T17:27:00.000+11:00

#278

2011-10-10T18:36:00.001+11:00

Relationship doesn't shine by just shaking hands in the best of times BUT it blossoms by holding hands in the critical times (via Happy Muslim Husband & Wife)

#277

2011-10-10T18:33:00.001+11:00

Balqies: Iman, Insya'Allah when we have our first baby, I think it is going to be a girl.

Iman: But who am I going to play football with then?

Balqies: er... Iman,...you don't play football!

Iman: Oh yeah!

#276

2011-10-10T10:08:00.001+11:00

Our Sunday:

2011-10-06T23:30:00.000+11:00

it has been a pretty busy week, been running errands for our wedding, I'm just so glad I'm surrounded by people who are positively inclined! Ameen.

2011-10-06T22:26:00.002+11:00

I'm the the midst of revamping my blog, so don't be shock if you see blog entries disappearing =D

Eid

2011-09-02T09:46:00.001+10:00

What is Eid without Family?

well, we didn't have any family photo sessions with my mother's family this Eid ...so this would do for now :)

2011-08-29T14:45:00.002+10:00

Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir & Batin!

#275

2011-08-28T07:34:00.006+10:00

All praises to Allah, Lord of the worlds. He who revealed in His Glorious Quran, "Oh you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those who came before you that you may keep your duty to your Lord (having taqwa)," 2:185. And may blessings and-peace of Allah be upon His last Messenger Muhammad ibn Abdullah, forever.

Oh you who believe, Ramadan is a sacred month wherein Almighty Allah is constantly testing His creation and giving humanity the opportunity to achieve infinite, endless Bliss. Fasting is a complete purification and a means to developing the consciousness of Allah's presence. The consciousness of Allah, Taqwa, is a protection against the schemes of Shaitan, and the suffering of this world. Allah has informed us that, "Whoever keeps his duty to Allah (has taqwa), He ordains a way out for him and gives him sustenance from where he imagines not. And whoever trusts in Allah, He is sufficient for him. Surely Allah attains His purpose. Allah has appointed a measure for everything." (65:2)

I am feeling a surge of emotions coming over me as Ramadhan is nearing its end. Twenty-eight days came to past, 2 more days left before marking the end of the holy month.

There is a novelty to Ramadhan that I am sure many of us had forgotten. So many things that we grow to take for granted is that Ramadan is actually a time of increased activity in which us believers, now lightened of the burdens of constant eating and drinking, should be more willing to strive and struggle for Allah.

I must admit that Ramadhan this year was by far the most challenging one I have encountered. I was in poor health at the beginning of Ramadhan, but by the third day I was determine to fast and Alhamdulillah I survived. Apart from being in poor health, this Ramadhan really tested my patience with the people around me. I have tried with utmost strength to refrain myself from succumbing to any misdeeds (i.e losing my patience, backbiting) I still need to work on that.

Dear Almighty, I hope you give me a chance next Ramadhan to redeem myself.

However, I am grateful to feel your presence throughout those difficult times, reciting your name, that sudden uplifting feeling from within, masha’Allah, I really cannot fathom what it was that I felt, but it felt good!

Insya’Allah, next year would be an enlightening and challenged filled Ramadhan, at least next year I will have Husband Iman to remind me about my Iman (get it, get it?) *face palms* hahahahahahahhahahah …

May this last two days of Ramadhan brings you tawfiq and hidayat. Ameen, Ya Rabbal alamin.

“… For tawfiq only comes from Allah and he establishes
it upon the tongue of His Awliyaa’, the people of His
Deen and those who have knowledge of His Shari’ah who
desire only the Truth…”

- ‘Abdullah ibn Mas’ood

(radhiallahu `anhu)

Happy Anniversary Amirul Iman!

2011-08-25T00:00:00.004+10:00

Dearest Iman, Happy 4 years anniversary! We've been through so much together both good and bad. I could never picture myself with anyone else who knows me best like you do. This is our last anniversary as an unmarried couple, Insya'Allah after February 2012, we will be counting down to our wedding anniversary. I really am thankful to the Almighty for your presence in my life. Here's to many more of us! I love you Amirul Iman :)

#274

2011-08-24T00:20:00.004+10:00

The sky looks pale grey for the past few days that had come to past. The sun barely came out to play today. Sunny August slowly dissipates making room for the prelude of September; Drenched to dampness.

Eid’s around the bend. With that being said, preparations are on tow, because I have yet to receive my pay cheque from last month’s job. It sounds like a gloomy start for me, but fret not! I will not let overdue payments falter my Eid spirit! This is after all my last Eid as Miss Balqies insya'Allah (: , I can't wait to be Mrs. Amirul 'Awesome' Iman *swoons*!

Anyhow, I was inspired to reenact Ben’s General food store Orecchiette Pasta with ~~Baby Peas &~~ Rocket (well sans the peas because I hate the bland taste of peas). Delicious, if I do say so myself!

this was before I smothered it with shaved Parmesan.

#273

2011-08-22T11:14:00.001+10:00

Instead of responding to them (which is what they want), prove them wrong by demonstrating your beautiful Islamic mannerisms & character (via Islamic Thinking).

#272

2011-08-21T16:02:00.000+10:00

Meet Aigner the Siamese Cat!

#271

2011-08-20T17:30:00.002+10:00

apart from listing my maternal wedding guest list, spent half the day with my niece, Madeleine.

#270

2011-08-15T11:16:00.000+10:00

We were featured on the Star yesterday, well our photos for the Royal wedding we covered a month back :)

#269

2011-08-15T11:09:00.000+10:00

I tried on the new template for a good 5 minutes before deciding to go back to this one. I'm sentimental like that ;)

#268

2011-08-11T20:30:00.002+10:00

Homemade Smoked salmon pizza :)

I made this for ifthar, was craving for the smoked salmon pizza I had at Souled Out, but it was smothered with mayonnaise and wasabi, so I decided to make my own. A healthier take, or so I hope ... :)

so if you've me on Facebook, you would realize I'm not just busy baking in Baking Life, I am busy baking/ cooking offline too!

#267

2011-08-11T00:04:00.000+10:00

I love Martha Stewart @ Weddings! I love how there's all this tools to aid me from the wedding registry to guest seating! Above is just a rough idea of how the hall would be, Mom & I need to meet up with the wedding planner after Eid to discuss further.

#266

2011-08-09T12:10:00.000+10:00

I miss Melbourne!

#265

2011-08-08T17:30:00.000+10:00

My mother decided to break some traditions for my Akad (solemnization). Brides are usually clad in white but my mother opted a pearl-pink for my dress and shiraz for Iman's baju melayu.

and for the reception:

and of course, my reception dress would be in yellow :)

#264

2011-08-08T15:35:00.001+10:00

love the color hues!

I'd like a nice diamond solitaire cut for my child-like fingers. No. 1 would be my ideal wedding ring.

#263

2011-08-08T12:14:00.000+10:00

"So many of my smiles begins with you" - Unknown

#262

2011-08-08T00:16:00.001+10:00

I am beyond annoyed, if only you knew!

Wedding to do list

2011-08-07T16:51:00.003+10:00

UPDATED//

~~Kursus Kahwin~~: Completed, we went for the course way before he officially proposed.
HIV Test: To be done Earliest in November.
Solemnization Permission Registration: To be completed by 1st week of January.

~~Makeup Artist~~: Lova Cinta

~~Photographer~~: Asyraf Lee & Wan.
~~Videographer~~: Zayan Yassin.
Wedding Ring: Searching
~~Material search for attires (both mine & Iman’s) : found, BOUGHT!~~
Accessories: my own.
Veil/Hijab: nothing yet.
shoes: ~~Yellow Chuck Taylor's~~ ... I wish! Nothing Yet.

~~Hand Bouquet: Poetry of Flowers.~~

Hantaran: 4/ 9.

~~Hantaran Trays: Loan from either Nena Mon or Aunt.~~

Hantaran Deco: in progress

Entertainment: Nothing yet.
Emcee: Aunt

~~Venue: Booked and confirm (:~~

~~Décor & Theme:Pastel colors, Modern Chic.~~

Invitation & Guest list: in progress.

#261

2011-08-07T00:53:00.000+10:00

The mid seasons sale gave me a perfect reason to go shopping for my dowry gifts for Iman. I'm so glad that I have only three more items left to purchase. The remaining two are the traditional items like the sirih dara (please don’t ask me what this is or its purpose, I’m not very sure of the Malay customs and traditions) and the Manisan (chocolate, sweets, cake, fruits, etc..).

A modern take of the Sirih Junjung/Dara.

I should really start focusing my attention on the guest list; I did not think the wedding guest list would be so time-consuming! Thank god for my tante Su! She has a list of our relatives so I can use that as reference.

After Eid, I need to discuss with my graphic designer a.k.a cousin Eleanor over the invitation and thank you cards (thanks Ellie, you’re awesome!). Meet up with the tailor for my solemnization, reception, man’s side reception dress … whoa that was a mouthful!

I have five lima cing eu পাঁচ خمسة 五年vissi חמש fünf पांच cinque năm more months to go! Oh my god, where did the days go by?

Insya'Allah, all will go smooth sailing! Ameen!

#261

2011-08-06T14:08:00.000+10:00

"Be very careful if you make a woman cry because God counts her tears. Every tear a woman sheds is equivalent to a man’s sacrifices in life. The woman came from a man’s rib, not his feet to be stepped on, not on his head to be superior but on his side to be equal, under his arm to be protected and near his heart to be loved."

#260

2011-08-06T13:17:00.001+10:00

I love this, so simple yet chic!

#259

2011-08-05T23:54:00.000+10:00

#258

2011-08-05T09:58:00.002+10:00

I love her make-up here, she looks amazing!

#257

2011-08-05T00:33:00.002+10:00

I loath people who make you feel small and miserable just because they feel they're better than you. This is only seem to matter at your worst moments.

unfortunately, this thing will NEVER end. And it won’t get any easier unless you know how to overcome this situation, there are so many ways to look at it. going through much more soul abuse and ridicule compared to your peers or family members means you are, most likely, bound to appreciate the greater things in life to a greater extent.

don’t be resentful. cut off all contacts with people who treat you like a doormat, love the ones who don’t. be patient, seriously. there are enough assholes in the world. don’t be another one.

#256

2011-08-04T13:15:00.000+10:00

Disclaimer: READ AT OWN RISK, LADEN WITH PHOTOGRAPHS OF FOOD, MEANT ONLY FOR THE STRONG.

I do not get how some people can be tortured mentally while looking at a website laden with photographs of food. Perhaps, I'm used to working around food while fasting that I am immune to the gratifying power of food. I always remind myself that Ramadhan is the month of feeding, not feasting! I won't deny that sometimes I myself forget, the minute you shove fried banana fritters to my face, I'll feel my knees turn into jello. However, I supposed to some fried banana fritters is hardly a feast.

I only started fasting yesterday, despite being sick, I had to muster all my strength to fast. And I did Alhamdulilah! Although I somewhat cheated by just sleeping half the time, the remaining half was spent progressing for our wedding invitation list, I'm not even close to done!

I feel like baking a tart today or tomorrow, what tart shall I make this time around?

My first tart, Caramel, Pecan & Dark Chocolate tart.

Peach and Vanilla Custard tart.

My favorite, out of the lot. Dark Chocolate tartlets.

fresh berries dark chocolate tart.

#255

2011-08-03T21:22:00.000+10:00

<p>&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;My former&amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;gt;</p>

My former lecturer's guinea pig is just too adorable!

#254

2011-08-03T03:53:00.001+10:00

Day 3, I was scared I would not be able to fast due to high fever but I had my fruit salad, special K bar and plenty of fluids, I feel so much better already! Let's hope this keeps up insya'Allah :)

Have a good sahur everybody!

#253

2011-08-03T00:00:00.001+10:00

#252

2011-08-01T23:00:00.001+10:00

sigh, I got the blues.

#251

2011-08-01T14:50:00.000+10:00

It's so fluffffffffyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy! I can dieeeeeeeeeeee!

Ramadhan Kareem!

2011-07-31T09:31:00.000+10:00

Ramadhan Kareem everybody!

#250

2011-07-30T15:42:00.001+10:00

remember my niece Madeleine?

Madeleine, 8 months later

#249

2011-07-30T15:30:00.000+10:00

I reckon baby breath's have a class on it's own, don't you think so?

Baby Aliyah

2011-07-29T12:20:00.001+10:00

This is my niece Aliyah, the latest baby in our family. I'v been spending a great deal of time with her, my cousin says it would be a good platform for me to practice before I embrace motherhood... oh dear, I need to learn to look after my big baby (Iman) first before I can think of starting a family, but it was meant to be, of course I would thank the Almighty for the blessing :)

#248

2011-07-29T09:00:00.002+10:00

If the person who killed 90+ people in Norway was a Muslim, the Press would have declared him as a terrorist. For now though, he is just an 'Assailant ', 'Attacker' (Reuters), 'Gunman' (BBC, CNN & Al Jazeera). Looks like 'Terrorist' is a name reserved for Muslims? The US Dept of State calls it an 'Act of Violence', Not an 'Act of Terrorism'. This is how hypocrisy is leading us all astray. (via Facebook)

#247

2011-07-28T09:04:00.004+10:00

After working with a corporate company, as fun as they may be, and the experience I've acquired, it wasn't worth the XXXX I made in a span of 2 weeks. It consumed my time (as I was only a freelancer), I was depressed towards the last few weeks before I called it quits. I was supposed to come back after a week's break, and after much discussion with my parents, Iman and my close friends, they all reckon I should not go back.

I'm happier now, flexible work schedule, and the best part of all is, I don't have to report to anyone but myself, oh and at times, Asyraf Lee.

** there's more to why I quit, but I'll save that for another day ;)

Iman, I want twin boys...!

2011-07-27T18:48:00.001+10:00

#246

2011-07-26T22:06:00.001+10:00

Yellow is just a color! I refuse to affiliate it with any movement or whatsoever.

#245

2011-07-26T14:45:00.000+10:00

I just bought materials for our reception on Iman’s side. I decided to play with hues of orange and blue. I never thought these two colors could complement each other. I am stoked with excitement on how preparations are coming along (:

#244

2011-07-25T15:56:00.000+10:00

Iman makes a good father don't you think? :p

All the single people.. put your hands up!

2011-07-25T15:30:00.004+10:00

My cousins threw a single party yesterday, before you all start giving me that queer look, I was there solely ... for the food :p oh and to help take photos.

The only thing I had my eyes and hands on were blue and pink popcorn ;)

more photos here.

#243

2011-07-25T12:36:00.001+10:00

homemade creep flower bouquet by my cousin, Ellie.

#240

2011-07-23T09:13:00.000+10:00

Dragees (sugar coated Almond), my mother reckons this would be a swell idea for gift favors at our wedding (:

#239

2011-07-22T23:43:00.000+10:00

Iman and I was at the pet shop yesterday, we spotted a Persian cat that looked almost like Bomby. made me think about you bombykins, I miss you truckloads.

#238

2011-07-22T09:28:00.009+10:00

While I may not had the opportunity to linger in the comforts of my room or sit in front of the computer lately, I have been spending a good deal of time with Iman and brainstorming ideas for our wedding with my mother and auntie. Insya'Allah all with go smooth sailing.

Anyhow, my father just got back home from Tanjung Langsat Port, Johor. He had recently met a boy named Muhammad Zamani. A classic poor-boy-makes-good-story: Perhaps 12 or 13 years old who was born and raised in Masai town, Pasir Gudang, Johor. Muhammad Zamani sells curry puffs (karipap) after school to support his family.

My father had noticed the boy while he was at the Photoshop. His crew was getting their photos taken for their OSP (Offshore Safety Passport). My father was standing against a wall just observing aimlessly. He noticed a boy holding a red plastic basket admiring a display of watches. The boy later disappeared, within mere minutes he was back again at the same spot mesmerized by the medley of watches. The shop owner told my father that it was a daily routine for the boy, he would come to her shop and just admire the watches.

My father walked towards the boy, stood next to him and asked "Ada jam yang cantik?" (is there any nice watches) he nonchalantly replied "ada.. yang warna oren tu." (yes, that orange one). My father reckon it was too orange so told him to look for another one. He was contemplating between the green and black watch, so my father asked the shop owner to take out both watches to let the boy try. The boy was love struck by the black watch. My father asked him if he wanted to buy it? He reckon it was too expensive. My father told him to just give a try. My father discreetly purchased the watch for the boy.

My father said to the boy“Zamani balik lah dulu” (Zamani go back first) he replied “tapi jam ni pak cik?” (but Uncle, how about the watch?) my father replied ”oh ni Zamani punya”(It's yours). The boy was in disbelief by the words my father had uttered. My father had to repeatedly tell him that the watch belongs to him now. It must had been so surreal for Zamani because he was still shocked to utter a single word.

Zamani kissed my father's hands. My father told him to take care of himself. My father parted ways with the boy as he needed to run off to work.

As my father was crossing the road, it had dawned to him that he never took a picture of the boy. My father told Alif (the cool legal dude from the company) "I have got to get a picture of Zamani and show it to my kids." All six of them crossed the road and were chasing to look for the boy. They spotted the boy coming out from the shop. He went to get his watch set (My father has forgotten to ask the shop owner to set the watch for the boy).

My father asked him if it was okay for him to take a picture of him. He asked "kenapa pak cik?" my father replied "saje nak buat kenangan". They shook hands for the last time, this time the boy hugged my father . My father (such an emotional being, I know where I attained that trait from) was on the verge of tearing, he told Zamani to study hard as he would do the same thing too one day (insya'Allah).

My father watched the boy go on the opposite direction. He must had been mesmerized by his new watch that he was oblivious to his surrounding and bumped into a herd of people.

#237

2011-07-21T15:41:00.001+10:00

I love my fiance ^_^

#236

2011-07-19T22:50:00.001+10:00

#235

2011-07-18T18:20:00.000+10:00

It is becoming such a routine. It gets exhausting after awhile.

#234

2011-07-17T00:46:00.000+10:00

#233

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

My seven year old nephew asked my cousin what is a cow's favorite Chinese food?
Answer: a mooo-n cake (said he made it up himself)

And yes, he is the same nephew who asked a small time magician if he could do a levitation trick.

#232

2011-07-16T20:07:00.000+10:00

I made homemade naan chips drizzled with rosemary olive oil with a pinched a cayenne pepper (I ran out of Paprika) with dijonaise mustard dip.

Ingredients

3/4 cup warm water
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
2 cups flour, plus more if needed
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 pinch baking powder
3tablespoons olive oil (2 for the dough the remaining for later)
2 & 1/2 tablespoons sour cream (you can substitute this with yoghurt)
cornmeal, for dusting

Cayenne Pepper

Mixed Herbs

In a small bowl, add the water and sprinkle yeast over top. Allow to sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix in olive oil and sour cream until mixture is crumbly. Slowly stir in the yeast and water mixture until a ball of dough forms. Add more flour if your dough is slightly wet.

Knead dough on a floured surface for a few minutes until smooth. Place the dough ball in a clean and greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours.

Flip dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a couple minutes. Divide dough into 6 equally sized balls. Dip each ball into flour and roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness.

Freeze dough for about 1 to 2 hours.

30 minutes prior to baking, preheat oven to 250 degrees. Cut dough into bite size. Drizzle olive oil ( I used rosemary infused olive oil) a pinch of cayenne pepper and mixed herbs (optional).

Bake for about 20 minutes, or until they start to brown.

and voila, homemade naan chips :)

#231

2011-07-15T23:53:00.000+10:00

I cannot wait to be Mrs. Awesome ha-ha!

Our engagement

2011-07-15T23:15:00.000+10:00

I just love looking at the photos :)

#230

2011-07-15T21:20:00.003+10:00

Nat & Qiki's TGIF:

fiddling with Nat's iPhone 4 camera features.

Natalie Ong Poh Suan, the reason why it is so hard to get rid of these unwanted body baggage. but oh well, there's only 5 Fridays at the most in a month, what damage could those 5 Fridays possibly do...(somehow, I know I'm going to regret saying that!)?

Ever since we graduated from high school Nat & I made a pact to have lunch every Friday (or any other day) the pact started almost five years ago! Wow!

(that's nat)

#229

2011-07-15T18:26:00.000+10:00

#228

2011-07-15T18:03:00.005+10:00

I miss my cousins, even if we don't get along at times, but Blut ist dicker als Wasser. Hopefully when my wedding comes, we'd be able to set our differences aside and be merry among each other. hopefully.

ps/ I actually have more cousins, but these are the ones I'm close to.

#227

2011-07-15T17:19:00.005+10:00

images courtesy of BHLDN & Pinterest.

If I was filthy rich and was making 10,000 USD a month, I would definitely by a pair of Louboutin's:

but knowing me, if I had that kind of money, I'd probably just custom make them at some cheaper designer :P

#226

2011-07-14T18:27:00.000+10:00

Underwater bedroom ... I am in awe.....

I have many dreams, one of my many dreams is underwater caving...

#225

2011-07-14T15:55:00.000+10:00

Another cousin of mine takes the plunge to pursue her Master's degree. Good luck Katie :)

#224

2011-07-13T21:00:00.001+10:00