Tears and Hope Amidst the Ashes on the Palisades Wildfire

The past few days I’ve found myself teary-eyed, deeply moved by the stories of survival and loss from the Palisades wildfire. Each time I watch survivors cry—whether reuniting with their beloved pets or standing amidst the ashes of their dreams—my eyes turn watery too.

One video showed a man jumping with joy when he found his cute dog alive, lost in the rubble for five days. Another heart-wrenching video captured a man sobbing uncontrollably as a firefighter brought his distressed cat out of the fire. The sight of him gently wiping his cat’s paws with water was both tender and heartbreaking. Then there was the video of a man standing in disbelief and crying as he realized his house was the sole survivor in a sea of destruction. It’s a miracle his home remained unscathed while everything around it turned to ashes.

These videos are so powerful, so raw, that I’ve told myself I shouldn’t watch them anymore. As I reflect on these stories, I can’t help but hope for a big thunderstorm to sweep through the area and extinguish the raging flames. The wildfire has already claimed many lives—human and animal alike—and caused immeasurable heartache.

To all those affected, my thoughts and prayers are with you. May your pain find solace, and may hope rise from the ashes of despair.

Another Busy Week in Full Swing

The first week of school and university in 2025 is officially in full swing, and life has been nothing short of hectic. With Maria, our part-time helper, still unwell, and my mother-in-law battling Influenza A since New Year's Eve, I've taken on all the household chores—cooking, washing dishes, and cleaning. While it's been a whirlwind, I’m counting my blessings, grateful for health and strength to keep things running. The only thing that I am complaining is my chaffed hands. And my right Tennis Elbow is still lingering there, with pain in almost every movement, after 9 months.

The Flu Bug Strikes

This flu season hasn’t spared us either. Cass caught the bug from her grandma earlier this week but, thankfully, bounced back after just a day of rest. She still has lingering phlegm and the occasional cough, but she’s on the mend. As for me, my body has been in battle mode. Two weeks ago, I felt the first signs of my immune system fighting the virus, and now I’m starting to feel off again—dizziness, headaches, and phlegm are creeping in.

I’ve learned how to tackle these bouts effectively: avoiding sugary and junk foods, prioritizing nourishing meals, and, most importantly, getting a solid seven hours of sleep each night. Sleep is my ultimate remedy, and with it, I’m confident my body will come out victorious.

The Upside of the Weekend

The weekend is fast approaching, and while I look forward to dining out (a welcome break from cooking), my day will still start bright and early at 5:30 a.m. Despite the grind, there’s no room for complaints. Being busy, active, and healthy is a privilege—far better than spending days confined to a hospital bed.

Each task, no matter how mundane, is a reminder of life’s blessings. Here’s to conquering the rest of this week with resilience and gratitude!

Pix taken from our condo - A huge bright rainbow with a faint one next to it greeted me on the evening of 7 January 2025. Such a beautiful sight to behold.

The beautiful rainbow forms the backdrop to KL's iconic landmarks: KLCC, KL Tower, and Merdeka 118

Kicking Off 2025: Challenges, Blessings, and Gratitude

Happy New Year, everyone! How have the first four days of 2025 been for you? I hope they’ve been smooth sailing so far. As for me, it’s been a mix of highs and lows—manageable for now, but the start of the year has already brought its fair share of challenges.

Unfortunately, my mother-in-law fell ill on the penultimate day of 2024 and is still battling Influenza A. Her symptoms are significantly worse than when she had Covid two years ago. To make matters worse, Cass started showing similar symptoms yesterday, though thankfully, hers are much milder and her appetite is still good. She's been stuffing herself with lots of fruits and veggies and gulping down bottles of plain water to help her body counter the virus.

For now, I’ve been spared from this dreaded infection, which allows me to take care of the sick ones at home. Despite Cass sleeping in my room since her grandma got sick, I’m holding on to hope that my body can fight off the virus. Sharing an air-conditioned room for four nights likely increased my exposure, but I’m staying optimistic.

While caring for the family, life for the rest of us has carried on. Sherilyn has jumped back into her demanding architecture course, which, as always, involves meticulous model construction. For the past two days, she’s been camped at our dining table, working tirelessly on her project with Josh Johnson’s videos playing in the background. Meanwhile, Alycia has been busy with her assignment since New Year’s Eve, creating a book from scratch. From writing and photography to printing, she’s been fully immersed in the process.

Cass, on the other hand, is gearing up for her final year of high school—a crucial year as she prepares for the SPM exam. It’s a milestone year for her, and I’m both excited and nervous for what lies ahead.

Adding to the busyness is our household help situation. Maria, our part-time helper, returned briefly but fell ill after just three days of work. She hasn’t come for two weeks now and, with her upcoming trip to Indonesia to deliver her baby, she won’t be available for the next eight months. By the time she returns to work, it will already be August. While this adds to my workload, I’ve come to embrace the chaos. Being busy is a blessing in disguise.

Lately, I’ve seen friends battling serious illnesses, some even succumbing to cancer. These sobering moments have made me appreciate my ability to stay active and busy. I’d much rather have my hands full than be bedridden or spend my days in a hospital. Life is unpredictable, and being able to run around and do so much is something I no longer take for granted.

As we step into 2025, I wish all of you a year filled with health, happiness, and smooth sailing days. Let’s tackle whatever challenges come our way with gratitude and resilience. Here’s to a fresh start and a wonderful year ahead!

Today I cooked pumpkin + sweet potato + pork porridge for everyone. I also microwaved an Ipoh salt-baked chicken to go with the porridge.

Wrapping Up the Holidays & 2024

As the year winds down, so does Cass’ 4-week long school term break. It’s been a whirlwind of activity, and the skating rink has been her second home this holiday season. For over a month, she’s been tirelessly rehearsing with her team mates for a Christmas show at the Blue Ice Skating Rink in Pavillion Bukit Jalil. No sooner had the show wrapped up than she dove straight into a 4-day skating camp. These intensive sessions ended at 11+ PM each night, leaving her thoroughly exhausted and brimming with passion for her sport.  Cass also had to go back to school twice this holiday to help out in the school’s office, as part of her bursary’s requirements. I had to wake up early to send her to school and fetch her back in the afternoon.

In between her time at the rink, Cass also managed to squeeze in daily outings with her grandma and Aunt Krystal, who was visiting from Hong Kong for two weeks.  School holidays mean that my wallet is in constant use as there are inevitably more outings, more skating sessions, and more expenses! Now, as the holidays draw to a close, I can’t help but feel a big sense of relief.

In just a week, Cass will return to school as a Senior High 2 (Form 5) student, embarking on her final year before sitting for the SPM—the most important exam of her high school journey. The thought of her reaching this milestone fills me with pride and a touch of nostalgia.

Sherilyn, meanwhile, has been enjoying a short break from university. It’s heartening to see her finally catching up on much-needed sleep and having meals with us after months of juggling university and dance commitments. She’s even managed to stay awake during meals—a rare sight during her busy semester! However, the break is short-lived, and soon she’ll be back to tackling assignments and preparing for the challenges of her next semester.

As for Alycia, she’s gearing up for a new chapter as her internship begins in a couple of weeks. It’s an exciting time for her to gain hands-on experience and apply what she’s learned in her studies.

Looking ahead, Chinese New Year is just around the corner, and in exactly a month, we’ll be back in Ipoh celebrating with my parents and brothers. The thought of family reunions, festive meals, and cherished traditions fills me with joy and anticipation.

Reflecting on this past year, it’s been nothing short of challenging. Life threw its fair share of curveballs, but we made it through, stronger and more resilient. As 2025 approaches, I can’t help but feel hopeful. I pray that the coming year brings smoother sailing for all of us.

Here’s to a fresh start, renewed energy, and a brighter year ahead. May 2025 be kinder to us all!

As soon as she had a little free time, Sherilyn made a big batch of nuts and seeds butter.  We gifted them to my parents, brother from Singapore, and Sherilyn's friend.

Sherilyn's boss from the cafe that she works part-time at calls her a shark as sharks need to swim constantly for respiration 😂.  I still wonder why this daughter of mine is constantly finding things to do and just can't rest! Maybe she's a reflection of me? 😜

Almond, pecan, pumpkin seeds, and pine nuts butter made using the Thermomix. She added a little olive oil to it.

Holiday activity for Cass - helped grandma to gut anchovies that she bought from Pangkor Island.

A Mother-Daughter Day Out in Bukit Bintang

Last Friday, Cass and I continued a beloved tradition—our annual trip to Bukit Bintang to soak in the Christmas vibes. For years, I’ve taken the girls to this bustling area to marvel at the festive decorations, indulge in Christmas shopping, enjoy good food, snap photographs, and immerse ourselves in the holiday spirit. This year, it was just the two of us. Alycia and Sherilyn stayed home, busy with assignments, while the MIL wasn’t feeling well, and hubby had to work.

Our first stop was Pavilion KL, a perennial favorite for its magnificent Christmas displays. After wandering the mall and surveying dining options, we decided on Zok Noodle House. It was peak lunch hour, and the restaurant was packed with office workers. Sitting amidst the corporate crowd brought back waves of nostalgia. I found myself reminiscing about my banking days and PA days—lunches with colleagues, dressing up for work, and the satisfaction of a steady paycheck, bonuses, and merit awards. Sometimes, I regret leaving my job to stay home, despite having a freelance WFH job now. If given the chance, I’d love to return to a full-time job outside the house.

Back to our lunch—Zok Noodle House didn’t disappoint. I ordered pork noodles in wine soup, a tray of taro pau, and a refreshing red bean milk. As a delightful bonus, we received two complimentary Portuguese egg tarts for leaving a Google review. The food was delicious, and I’m already planning a return visit to explore their other menu offerings. There's an outlet at Pavillion Bukit Jalil, where Cass' skating rink is, so we'll most likely be dining there soon.

After lunch, Cass took on the role of tour guide, leading me to Lot 10, Fahrenheit 88, and Starhill Gallery. Her adventurous spirit kicked in as she suggested walking to Lalaport. I hesitated, knowing the roads between Bukit Bintang and Lalaport are notoriously busy and the walk would take over 20 minutes. Thankfully, I stood my ground. Back home, Alycia confirmed that walking there isn’t practical due to the busy roads we’d have to cross—she found out when she wanted to do the same thing some time back.

After more than two hours of exploring, I managed to convince Cass to call it a day, though not without some negotiation. We picked up Chez Choux cream puffs for Alycia and Sherilyn before heading home.

Delicious pork noodles at Zok Noodle House.

We received two complimentary delicious Portuguese egg tarts for leaving a review on Google Reviews - one on my phone and one on Cass' phone. 

Taro buns for Cass. They were delicious.

We shared a large milk tea with chewy aloe vera bits from Koi (again).

Taro soft serve ice cream for the ice cream-crazed teenage girl.

Christmas decor at Pavillion @ Bukit Bintang.

Cass’ Christmas Show

Last Saturday was a special day for Cass as she performed in the annual Christmas show at the skating rink. Held over two days, with two sessions each day, and opened to the public, this festive event is like a concert but on ice. I was there on Saturday afternoon to cheer her on, and as always, there’s something truly enchanting about watching figure skaters perform. Their movements' grace, precision, and elegance make figure skating one of my favorite Olympic sports, alongside diving and gymnastics.

Besides gaining new experience, Cass also picked up a valuable skill—applying performance makeup. Thanks to tips from her fellow skaters, she learned how to create the bold, stage-ready look required for such events.  

After the show, we headed for an early dinner at KyoChon Korean Fried Chicken. Cass had been eyeing their one-day promotion on 14/12/2024, where fried drummets and wingettes, normally priced at RM25.90, were on sale for just RM14 for 8 pieces. We indulged in two sets for dining in and took one home for Sherilyn. The chicken was crispy and delicious, and I couldn’t get enough of their refillable pickled radish, which perfectly balanced the rich flavors of the fried chicken.

Our post-dinner stroll led us to Koi for milk tea with attap chee, a very refreshing drink with chewy attap chee. Then, we discovered a new noodle shop, Aunt Wu Bone Soup Rice Noodles, which was a delightful surprise. We tried their rice noodles with pork slices, quail eggs, and spam meat in tomato soup. The meal included refillable side dishes like spicy pickled cucumber and potatoes, plus complimentary plum drink—all at reasonable prices.  We’ll be back again to this eatery!

Before heading home after grocery shopping, we enjoyed dessert at Yam Fresh while waiting for Grab fares to drop. Cass generously treated me to a warm taro and purple rice in coconut milk tong sui. I chose something warm as I was freezing cold and sneezing away, no thanks to the freezing temperature at the skating rink.  I think I am going to bring along my puffer jacket the next time I intend to stay in the skating rink for more than 15 minutes to prevent catching a cold. 

Though the fare remained high at RM34, I eventually booked the Grab ride as it was getting late.

Cass received a certificate of participation for her Christmas show.  The next day, after their final Christmas show, the skaters had an early Christmas potluck party and gift exchange session. Cass got some pretty homemade Christmas cookies with fondant and some cute squishy balls. I taxed a squishy ball from her to squeeze when I need to release stress 😁

Delicious noodles in tomato soup (RM28.60) from Aunt Wu Bone Soup Rice Noodles. The plum drink and appetizers of pickled spicy cucumber, potato, and crispy fried soybeans are refillable.  You will also be given a free disposable bib and hair ties.

Delicious taro coconut milk tong sui from Yam Fresh.

X'mas gift from the gift exchange Christmas party. The pink customized bag with Cassandra's name on it is a gift from the skating coach.

Reflections on the Attention of Youth: A Journey Through Twenties

The twenties are often a time of self-discovery, boundless energy, and, sometimes, attracting the attention that comes with being young, attractive, and vibrant. Looking back at my own twenties, it’s a mix of good, bad, and downright strange memories, some of which still make me chuckle or shudder.

The Good, The Bad, and The Uncomfortable

In my twenties, I seemed to attract attention wherever I went. Some of it was flattering, while some of it was the kind of attention no one ever asks for. The most uncomfortable experiences involved unwanted encounters with flashers and perverts on the streets and public transport. Those were situations I wouldn’t wish on anyone and ones that taught me the importance of being vigilant.

In another scenario, I also attracted the attention of this dirty old man who’s now a Datuk who used to jog at the park where I jogged. He would often tease me, though he knows my hubby quite well. That was over 20 years ago before I had children. Recently I bumped into him and he again, teased me in the presence of other men, saying that I still look young with a teenager silhouette.  

Professional Challenges and Jealousy

One of my earliest jobs was as a secretary for a husband-and-wife-run company. The job didn’t last more than a week, not because of my lack of skills, but because of the wife’s jealousy. She couldn’t stand the idea of someone younger and, in her eyes, prettier, working in close proximity to her husband. While it was a tough experience at the time, it taught me the importance of standing my ground and knowing when to walk away from toxic environments.

Opportunities and Admirers

My second job in a bank brought a mix of professional and personal attention. One memorable moment was being scouted by a headhunter from Citibank while walking from the bus stand to my office. My boss, who knew the headhunter, called him and jokingly told him off for trying to poach me.

The workplace also had its fair share of admirers. A charming head of a big division frequently visited the HR department where I worked, persistently asking if I’d join his team. He even convinced me to model for the bank’s magazine—a cringe-worthy experience when I look back at the photo!

One of the most flattering encounters was with a young, handsome doctor from the clinic on our bank’s panel. It’s moments like these that make me ponder: what if I had pursued those connections? Would my life be different? Better?

The Road Not Taken

Life is full of crossroads, and it’s natural to wonder about the “what ifs.” But I believe every decision I made, every road I took, was part of God’s greater plan for me. While it’s fun to reflect, I’ve learned to cherish where I am now, knowing that the past shaped the person I am today.

That's me in my late 20s. How I wish I could turn back the clock and look young and vibrant again!

Wednesday, 4 December 2024 ~ Unexpected Encounter Again

This morning’s cool and overcast weather was perfect for one of my favorite indulgences: a piping hot bowl of bitter gourd pork soup at the kopitiam. I have a rule—I’ll only eat at the hot kopitiam when the weather isn’t sweltering, and today ticked all the boxes. Off I went, securing a comfy seat and savoring my bowl of warm, flavorful soup.

While enjoying my meal, I ordered two Char Koay Teow for takeaway—one for Sherilyn and another for my mil. The plan was to have a peaceful breakfast, finish my errands, and head home. But as life would have it, there was a twist to my simple morning.

Just as I was relishing my soup, I spotted a familiar figure walking into the kopitiam. Oh no—it was MC! For context, MC is someone I often bump into, and he never misses a chance to invite me for lunch. He’s brazenly open about his intentions and liking towards me, and while I’m polite, I’m also cautious. I’ve known MC for over 10 years at our condo gym.

It was too late to make a graceful exit, and the moment he saw me, his face lit up with excitement. “What luck!” he exclaimed, adding that he had a “sixth sense” he’d run into me today. He chatted animatedly for a few minutes before heading off to order his chap fan.

But, of course, he came back. MC sat down at my table, and we chatted again. From our conversation, it became evident that he’s a lonely man. He's a divorcee and he's not close to his grown children who are married with kids.  It struck me that his constant invitations for lunch stem from a longing for connection.

While we were at the kopitiam, he kept telling the CKT seller and drinks seller that I was a ‘leng lui’ (pretty girl)! And these sellers know me and my hubby pretty well. Can you imagine how awkward I felt!!

While I felt some sympathy for MC’s situation, I had errands to run and couldn’t stay longer. I quickly finished my soup, bade him goodbye, and made my way to 99 Speedmart.

But fate—or MC’s persistence—had another surprise in store. As I approached the store, there he was, walking in. Not wanting another prolonged chat, I immediately detoured to another supermarket. Crisis averted! 😅

My bowl of piping hot bitter gourd + pork + egg soup with lots of pork lard. Simply delish. I washed my keto meal down with a glass of sugar-free iced 'cham' (coffee + tea).

Pal Gae Ook Korean Chicken BBQ and Aftermeal Desserts @ Hartamas

Last Sunday, we finally indulged in something Hubby had been raving about for weeks—a visit to Pal Gae Ook Korean Chicken BBQ at Hartamas.

The star of the show? Charcoal-grilled chicken that boasts a smoky and juicy flavor. The restaurant also offers unlimited refills of their homemade sauces and side dishes (banchan). While the variety of side dishes is limited, what they do offer pairs beautifully with the main dishes.

As usual, hubby took the lead in ordering, ensuring we got a good sampling of their unique menu:

Chicken Dalgalbi: We tried both the soy sauce and spicy versions. Both were tender and flavorful, with the spicy one packing a pleasant kick.

Chicken Wing Shrimp Dumplings: This dish was a standout! Each chicken wing had a shrimp cleverly stuffed inside—an unexpected but delightful combination.

Corn Cheese Fondue: Creamy, cheesy, and perfect for dipping. This dish was comfort food at its best.

Rice Balls: These were a hit with everyone. Packed with flavor, they were the perfect side to the smoky grilled chicken.

While the food was undeniably delicious, the portion sizes were on the smaller side. I was still a little hungry by the end of our meal. Fortunately, Alycia came to the rescue with a great suggestion—a dessert of bingsu next door at Aftermeal Desserts!

Conveniently located next to the Korean restaurant, Aftermeal Desserts was the perfect spot to satisfy our post-lunch cravings. Hubby ordered two bingsu shaved ice desserts, each refreshingly light and packed with flavor. We also shared a decadent burnt cheesecake, which was rich, creamy, and simply divine.

Hubby also thoughtfully picked up takeaway Korean BBQ chicken and seaweed rice balls for Sherilyn, who wasn’t feeling well and stayed home. With almost a month of chronic sleep deprivation due to her demanding architecture course, she’s been falling sick frequently. It breaks my heart to see her so exhausted, sleeping on the floor or couch at home or in the university work studio to keep up with assignments. Yet, her determination is unwavering—she remains resolute in her choice to continue her architecture studies.

Yummy Korean rice balls. These taste better after grilling.

Steamed eggs.

Chicken wings with shrimps inside.

Cooking corn cheese fondue on the BBQ stove 

Bingsu and burnt cheesecake at Aftermeal Desserts. 

Iron Lady milk tea fluffy snow ice kakigori with QQ taro balls. Very, very refreshing and yummy!

Cass chose Biscoff Caramel Kakigori Showtime. We find the caramel too sweet.

The original burnt cheese cake and the passion fruit tea ice were nice.

Grueling Life Of An Architecture Student

It’s been over a week since Sherilyn last slept on her bed. My second-year architecture student daughter has been swamped with back-to-back assignments, and her determination is turning our couch into her bed and her university workshop into her second home. The rigorous demands of her course have left her zombified—sacrificing sleep, meals, and even showers. The workload is relentless, and the toll it’s taking on her is all too evident.

The last time I saw her was yesterday afternoon when she darted home for a quick bite and shower before heading back to university. Tonight, she returned at 9 pm, utterly exhausted.

First, it was an assignment requiring the complicated construction of bamboo structures, which consumed her days and nights. Now, she’s diving headfirst into yet another project, leaving little time for basic necessities like proper meals, showers, and restful sleep.

The most jarring moment came today. Sherilyn returned home around 9 p.m., visibly drained, touchy, and wasn’t in the mood to talk much. As she sat down to eat her dinner and then a Mon Chinese beef roti her grandmother had just bought, she couldn’t even stay awake long enough to finish the roti.  Halfway through chewing, she dozed off, the roti almost slipping from her grasp. I quickly woke her up and asked her to keep the roti and to shower. But her body betrayed her willpower and she continued dozing at the table and then moved to the couch to continue sleeping.  The sight of her falling asleep while chewing brought a bittersweet wave of déjà vu.

When Sherilyn was around five to six, for more than a year, she had a peculiar habit of sitting at the dining table for hours, struggling to finish her dinner. Perhaps it was her way of seeking my attention. Ever since Cass was born, I diverted my attention to the baby as Cass had some major health issues that needed special care. In Sherilyn’s innocent mind, the baby stole her thunder.   Many evenings, she’d fall asleep at the dining table, waking intermittently between 7 pm and 11 pm to continue chewing the food in her mouth. Back then, I was preoccupied with Cass, who was a toddler dealing with urinary tract issues.  Sherilyn often clashed with Dyah, our live-in helper, making dinnertime an ongoing struggle. Out of exhaustion and lack of time, I let her be. I was holding two jobs back then – a freelance writing job and selling clothes online.  

Now, years later, history seems to repeat itself—but for vastly different reasons. Her chronic sleep deprivation stems not from defiance but from passion and a grueling academic workload. Watching her push herself so hard hurts my heart. I can’t help but question if architecture is truly what she wants, knowing the toll it’s taking on her body and mind. Yet, her answer remains unwavering—a resounding yes.

As a parent, I can only pray for her well-being. I ask God to guide her, grant her physical and mental strength, and protect her health despite these trying times. My fierce, resilient Sherilyn is determined to chase her dreams, and I’ll be here, supporting her every step of the way—even if that means picking up her food and phone from her grasp before she dozes off at the table again.

When There Was No Internet and Social Media

Growing up in the 1970s and 1980s, life had a different rhythm—one that many today may find hard to imagine. In a world without internet, smartphones, or social media, entertainment meant simpler things that brought families together. TV time was the highlight of our evenings, and it wasn’t just about watching our favorite programs; it was a treasured family ritual.

My brothers and I would eagerly wrap up dinner, so we could all settle into the living room in our cozy little house in Moonlight Park, Ipoh. It was our first home, a small single-story house, where the six of us shared countless memories. That house holds some of the best moments of my childhood, where every evening was marked by a comforting routine, all of us gathered around a modest black-and-white TV.  My papa sat on his lazy chair and I sat on the floor next to him, with eyes glued to the TV.

Growing up in Moonlight Park brought other memories just as precious. The house may have been small, but it was home to a world of joy for me and my best friend, Michael Yong, who lived next door. Michael who is the same age as me was my closest playmate , and our parents affectionately called his parents “chu lai,” meaning friends with the same surname in Hakka. We spent endless hours playing outdoors, exploring, and making memories that remain some of the best of my life.  When I was little, I even told myself that when I grew up, I would marry Michael 😂.  I haven't seen Michael for decades and wonder how he and his older brother, Vincent are doing now. I would love to meet up with them one day.

Our lineup of shows was one of pure nostalgia: Mind Your Language, The Six Million Dollar Man, MacGyver, Empat Sekawan, and Eight Is Enough. I can still vividly recall Mr. Brown, the English teacher in Mind Your Language, and how much we all laughed. Even as kids, we learned so much from those shows—they sparked our imagination and made us laugh, giving us something to look forward to each day.

Then, in 1981, everything changed. My papa brought home a video player, and it was a moment of pure excitement for us kids. I was only eight years old, and watching our first videotape—a Chuck Norris action movie—was nothing short of thrilling. Soon after, papa started renting more videotapes. Our early favorites included Jackie Chan movies and, eventually, TVB dramas. Every day, we’d eagerly wait for papa to come home with the next tape, ready for another night of excitement and family bonding.

By the way, Chuck Norris is still alive and he's 84 years old. Bless that man. I loved watching his movies.

The absence of digital devices meant we were fully present. Life in the 80s felt simple but wonderfully rich. There was a sense of happiness and contentment in the small things, and our evenings together filled us with a joy that only grew with time.

Looking back, I’d do anything to go back to those simpler times, to No. 11 Hala Taurus, Moonlight Park, to our cozy living room, and to those cherished family moments that formed the heart of my childhood. I still remember this address even though we moved out of this house 40 years ago!

When a Delivery Mix-Up Gave Me a Lesson in Double-Checking Addresses

Yesterday morning, I wasn’t quite feeling myself. After a restless night’s sleep and a bout of heart palpitations due to some lingering worries and unresolved issues, I had an intense craving for Vietnamese food from Pho Viet. I quickly placed an order through Shopee Food for our favorite dishes, looking forward to a comforting meal to ease my stress. Little did I know, however, that I was in for a small (luckily not that expensive) lesson in double-checking details.

About 30 minutes later, I received a call from the Shopee Food delivery rider. He asked for my company name and which floor I was on, which threw me off initially. That’s when it hit me—I’d left my delivery address as “Optimax in Sri Petaling,” the eye clinic where I had an appointment about a month ago. On that day, I had ordered food to be delivered home while I was still at the eye center, and I’d forgotten to change it back to my actual address after that visit.

The rider kindly offered to bring the food to my correct address for an extra RM10, but, frustratingly, our call got disconnected, and he never returned my calls or messages. I guess he thought it was not worth sending the food to me after all. Fine. 

After some back-and-forth, I called Optimax and explained my situation, and they confirmed that the food was still at the clinic’s reception. I decided to book a Grab Express bike to pick up the food from Optimax and have it delivered to me instead.

In total, I paid RM4.90 for the initial Shopee Food delivery. I had a RM11 voucher from Shopee Food. But I had to spend RM7 for the Grab Express service. So, I still had to pay RM1 out of pocket. Ok la, not that expensive but I felt it was a sheer oversight and carelessness on my side. I thought that I could save RM11 with the food voucher but I ended up having to pay instead.

I was upset with myself for the mistake, but I know now that I won’t be making it again. From now on, I’ll triple-check my delivery address before confirming any online order.

This small hiccup taught me the importance of double-checking every detail—especially on days when I’m feeling a little off. Mistakes are just part of life’s learning curve, and at least this one came with my favorite noodle and lemongrass chicken salad and banh mi at the end!

Color Trends For Prom Dresses in 2025

Choosing the color of your prom dress is one of the most exciting decisions for you and your besties.  Prom night is the most awaited party since you started high school. Even though there’s another half a year to the big day, you can start looking for your dream prom dress now.

Prom 2025 is all about unique dress colors.  There are endless choices, from romantic pastels like blush pink, baby blue, mint, and lilac to jewel tones like emerald, red, purple, and emerald. And there are the futuristic metallic hues too. If you’re still uncertain which color to choose for your dress, head over to Modsele to shop for the perfect prom dress. This online store has an amazing selection of prom dresses in many beautiful colors and designs. 

Prom dresses in 2025 are set to make a vibrant statement. Whether you’re drawn to the eye-catching color of neon pink, or dream of a futuristic shimmering metallic fabric with an iridescent finish, Modsele has got you covered.  Let’s look at some of the most popular and trending prom dress colors and styles.

This one-shoulder full-length prom dress with a cut-out in the mid-section and a high-slit will surely make heads turn.  It’s available in stunning red, royal blue, black and pink.  This gorgeous fully-lined dress, with a built-in bra, is perfect for prom, homecoming, bridesmaid, and other formal events.

Looking for a prom dress that’s ethereal and fairy-like?  This lavender tulle V-neck A-line long dress with a flowy skirt hits all the right notes.  With its delicate appliques, 3D floral lace, and lace-up back, this floor-length dress sure looks dreamy. The long, flowy tulle skirt creates an angelic, floating effect, making you look like a goddess on your special night.

 

This lovely yellow off-shoulder ruffled tiered prom dress will make you look like Barbie! The intricate 3D floral lace detailing on the off-shoulder neckline adds a touch of elegance, while the high waist and ruffled tiered skirt create a flattering silhouette. The skirt slit makes moving about easy and you can dance your night away in this Barbie-like gown!

 

This gold metallic spaghetti strap dress with a pleated floor-length skirt is true elegance that will transform you into an ancient Greek goddess! The unique design with V-neck straps, a keyhole on the chest part, and a cinching waist is flattering. The low back with zipper makes putting on and off easy. The dress is fully lined and comes fitted with a bra. This elegant dress is also available in other attractive colors, such as shimmering champagne, violet, fuchsia, and green.

 

As you prepare for prom in 2025, choosing the perfect prom dress doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start browsing for prom dress designs and colors and enjoy the process. Before you even realize it, you’ll be enjoying an epic prom night in your gorgeous prom dress and dancing the night away!

Mismatched Socks: The Latest Fun Fashion Trend!

Mismatched socks have become a quirky new trend, and thanks to Alycia’s recent shopping spree in Korea, they’ve made their way into our household too! Known for her love of unique styles, Alycia brought home a bunch of trendy finds, including an adorable pair of mismatched socks.

Socks are a bit of an obsession in our family. With all of us being sock lovers, especially when it comes to pairing them with our everyday sneakers or workout shoes, we go through quite a variety. Whether it’s for outings or exercising, socks are a daily must. So, when I pulled Alycia's latest mismatched pair out of the washing machine, my first instinct was to go hunting for their "missing" partners. It didn’t take long for me to realize—these socks were intentionally mismatched. It was pretty cute with prints of cows grazing grass in rolling hills on one side and cow fur print on the other.

The mismatched socks trend brings back that youthful spirit and carefree style. For younger folks, it’s a way to add a bit of fun to their wardrobe, but I think it’s something not anyone can pull off. Imagine an almost 52-year-old mom wearing mismatched socks? Still looking cute? Perhaps what I can try rocking is socks of different colors but with the same design 😜

Who Pays The Bridesmaids’ Dresses And Accessories?

 Who should pay for the bridesmaids’ dresses?

According to traditional wedding etiquette in some countries, the bridesmaids pay for their dresses, shoes, accessories, and makeup. However, wedding traditions have evolved over the years, and many couples partially or fully pay for the cost of each member of the bridal party's clothes. Generally speaking, there are no hard and fast rules stating that the bride should pay for each bridesmaid dress; it’s widely accepted that she will as a gesture of appreciation.

 

The bride usually pays the bill if she envisions all her bridesmaids wearing a certain color, brand, or design. If she wants her girls to look like bridesmaids in color-coordinated dresses for impeccable wedding photos – and therefore wear a dress they probably will not wear again, it’s only fair that the bride foots the bill.  It’s becoming more common for brides to cover the cost of the bridesmaid dresses and accessories as a gesture of appreciation. Ultimately, the decision is dependent on the bride’s budget and her relationship with the bridesmaids.

 

If you’re not paying for the bridesmaids’ dresses

Even if the bride doesn’t have the budget to sponsor the bridesmaids’ dresses, she can still tell her girlfriends her preference for the dress style and colors. There should be open communication with all the members of the bridal party.

It would be a good idea to ask the bridesmaids to stick to a certain color or hue, not a specific dress so that they can wear the dress again. Modsele has a wide collection of affordable elegant bridesmaid dresses that you and your bridesmaids will love.

 

What About The Bridesmaids’ Shoes?

Some brides are relaxed about their bridesmaids' shoes and will suggest something like white or nude strappy heels since it’s likely that some bridesmaids already have such shoes in their wardrobe.  If the bride is paying for the dresses, it’s reasonable for the bridesmaids to pay for their shoes. However, if you are particular about the shoes that your bridesmaids wear and want them to wear a specific shoe, then yes, the bride should pay for it.  Of course, if the bride and groom are wealthy or have a big budget to splurge, they can foot the bill for the shoes too! Even if your bridesmaids are very close to you, they will have a limit on their budget and you have to honor this.

 

Who pays the bridesmaids’ hairdo and makeup?

Again, this comes back to the bride’s budget and what everyone is comfortable with. Some brides and their bridesmaids share the cost while others DIY. If the bride has a big budget, the bride squad can have their hair and makeup done by professionals.

 

In Conclusion

Open communication is important and at the outset, the bride must convey clear expectations regarding what she will pay and what the bridesmaids will pay. This is to prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Remember that your wedding is just one day but your friendship with your friends is forever and so precious, so handle those money talks with tact, sensitivity, love, and understanding.

Alycia's Korea Adventure

Alycia has just returned from a memorable 7-day trip to Seoul, South Korea, with her friend and colleague, L. This trip was special for Alycia and L, as L will be migrating overseas next month. As a likely farewell journey, the two made the most of every moment, exploring the beauty of South Korea together and capturing a collection of stunning memories.

L, who is Alycia’s age, took charge of the trip planning and did a fantastic job arranging a perfect itinerary. From the photos Alycia shared, I can see that the trip was a wonderful mix of sightseeing, hanbok photography, delicious food, and meaningful time together. They enjoyed authentic Korean BBQ, kimchi, and hearty dumplings. Each meal looked and tasted amazing,

Their adventure included a trip to the breathtaking Nami Island, famous for its stunning fall foliage. They took a shuttle bus and ferry to reach this serene haven, where the golden and crimson leaves of fall seemed like a scene from a painting.

Of course, Alycia couldn’t resist a little retail therapy. As expected, she brought back more denim—pants, jackets, you name it! Her wardrobe is already bursting at the seams (she’s a true clothes-shopping enthusiast!), and now there’s even more denim to make room for. I might need a crowbar to close her wardrobe doors at this rate!

And what was her souvenir for me? Three pail-loads of dirty laundry, mostly thick denim pants, denim jackets, and fall wear. It’s a “gift” that only a mother could appreciate! I told her that the next time she travels overseas, she has to settle all her dirty laundry herself, and not stress me up with them! 😑

Souvenirs from Korea for me! 😓 I told her that for her next trip - send all her dirty clothes to the laundry shop and pay for it herself!