Irvins Salted Egg Fish Skin Snack – Dangerously Addictive!

Alycia’s high school friend recently returned from New Zealand for the Chinese New Year break and gifted her a pack of Irvins Fish Skin snack. She had bought it during her holiday in Singapore, and it was our first time trying this well-known snack made in Singapore.

Just as the packaging claims, this snack is truly "dangerously addictive!" From the first bite to the next, it was impossible to stop. The fish skin chips are incredibly crispy and packed with flavor, making them an absolute treat for anyone who loves salted egg snacks. To top it off, they’re also keto-friendly—and I nearly finished the entire bag myself!

I can only imagine how much my cholesterol levels must have spiked after indulging in these chips, but hey, Chinese New Year is a time to relax and enjoy a little snacking. A rare indulgence is totally worth it!

For those interested in trying this irresistible snack, it’s available on Shopee at RM37.50 for a 105g bag. I might just buy a pack for myself one day when there's a discount and free shipping! 😉

So true!

It has MSG, no wonder it's so tasty.  Best to share this with friends and loved ones to minimize your 'sin' and guilt😁

Random Updates on My Three Girls

Today marks the last three days of Cass' month-long school break, and I must say, I am SO relieved that it’s finally coming to an end! I can’t wait for her to go back to school. This girl can be a little devil at times. When dealing with her, I often have to take deep breaths just to keep my composure. She has a way of pushing my buttons like no one else, and sometimes, I feel like I instantly transform into another being.

I often wonder why children these days are so bold, so fearless, and so ambitious—sometimes without even thinking about the consequences. But perhaps this is something positive, a sign of confidence and resilience. Either way, I’m just grateful that she’s heading to the skating rink today, giving me a much-needed breather at home.

Meanwhile, Sherilyn and I are heading to Mid Valley today to celebrate her 20th birthday! She’s been completely absorbed in yet another assignment over the past few days, and it’s consuming her once again. I really hope she manages to get some rest after she submits this one. I’ll share more details about our birthday lunch in a separate post!

As for Alycia, she’s been pretty busy with her interning work and hanging out with her besties (as usual) lately. 

That’s it for now—off to enjoy a little break before the chaos resumes!

Sherilyn's latest assignment 

Haru’s Second Road Trip to Ipoh: A Brave Cat’s Journey

This Chinese New Year, our resilient pandemic cat, Haru, embarked on her second road trip with us to Ipoh to celebrate the festivities at my parents' house. While her first trip last year was unplanned and fraught with challenges, Haru’s progress this year has made me one proud cat mom.

Last year, Haru joined us on the road to Ipoh after a failed cat-boarding experience. She refused to eat, drink, or even relieve herself for two days, so I had no choice but to bring her home and take her along for the trip. It was a stressful ride—she meowed non-stop, and I had to let her out of her carrier and let her sit on my lap throughout the car ride to calm her down. Despite the challenges, Haru survived her first road trip like a champ.

Fast forward to this year, Haru showed significant improvement. She stayed calm and composed in her new astronaut backpack throughout the entire two-hour-plus journey, both to and from Ipoh. There was no incessant meowing or restlessness this time, and I didn’t have to take her out of the bag at all. Her growth in handling the trip was truly remarkable.

Upon arriving at my parents' house, Haru immediately reverted to her cautious nature, hiding under the bed—just like last year. For the first day, she remained in my bedroom, her safe haven. However, we gradually introduced her to family members, helping her get desensitized to new faces and surroundings.

By the second day, Haru started warming up to everyone. Sherilyn even coaxed her onto the couch to sit next to my younger brother, Roy. To our delight, Haru sat there quietly, observing my brother without hissing or retreating. It was a huge milestone for our timid cat.

On the third day in Ipoh, Haru surprised us once again by allowing my twin niece and nephew to touch her. While she didn’t permit anyone to carry her just yet, her willingness to engage with others without hissing or running away marked tremendous progress.

Haru’s adaptability and resilience continue to amaze me. This trip showed how far she’s come since her first road trip last year. I’m optimistic that by next year or our next visit to Ipoh, Haru will feel even more at ease in my parents' house and among my family members.

For now, I’m just proud of my brave little cat for stepping out of her comfort zone and making these small yet meaningful strides. Haru, you’ve come a long way, and I can’t wait to see how much more you’ll blossom in the future!

Outside our house, waiting to be brought to the car.

On our way to Ipoh. I unzipped half the bag for Haru to stick her head out for me to pet, but she remained inside the backpack throughout the car ride.

Haru sat next to my younger brother for almost an hour on the couch without hissing or running away. She just sat there staring at Roy while he watched TV 😂. I think she likes my brother.

A big achievement - Haru allowed my twin niece and nephew to get near her and pet her without hissing.

Haru slept between us at night. She first slept on her bed on the floor before jumping up to sleep with us. We were just too exhausted to kick her out and let her be for two nights.

One of the things that I dislike the most during CNY every year is the thunderous fireworks every single night for over 15 days, which would continue until the wee hours of the morning, especially on the Eve of CNY and on the Eve of Pai Ti Koong night. As a result, I've been losing sleep. Haru's been hiding in our room on most nights, sleeping on our bed, as she is terrified of the fireworks. 

A Slightly Different Chinese New Year 2025

This year's Chinese New Year (CNY) was slightly different from our usual tradition. Typically, we travel back to Ipoh on CNY Eve or the first day of CNY. However, with my hubby needing to work on the first day, we only made the trip on the second day of CNY. While it felt a little strange not kicking off the new year in Ipoh, the celebrations were still filled with family, food, and treasured moments.

A Vegetarian Tradition

On the first day of CNY, instead of my mother-in-law preparing her customary vegetarian dish at home, this year, my hubby's Aunt Wendy volunteered to host the gathering at her house. Ever since I married into this family, this vegetarian dish has been a cherished part of the first day of CNY. In my own family—the Yong family—we have a similar tradition but with vegetarian fried meehoon. My late paternal grandmother used to make the most delicious version of it (with a soy sauce dipping of fresh shallots, chillies and sand ginger), and ever since she passed away, my papa has carried on the tradition.

While it was lovely to have the gathering with hubby’s family in KL, I couldn’t help but feel nostalgic for the times we spent in Ipoh on the Eve and first day of CNY. Hopefully, next year we can revive this tradition, though it will depend on the SPM exam dates since Cass will be sitting for her exams. If the dates fall around CNY, we’ll have to stay put in KL.

Journey to Ipoh on the 2nd Day

We left KL at 8:30 am on the second day of CNY and were grateful for the smooth traffic on the highway. The drive took only 2 hours and 10 minutes, which was a relief. Alycia and Sherilyn opted to take the train instead—Sherilyn, still nursing her backache, preferred the comfort of a train ride over a car journey.

Upon arriving in Ipoh, we dropped off Haru at my parents' house. After setting up her litter box and making sure she was comfortable, we headed straight to the Stadium food court to hunt for brunch. While many stalls were closed for the holidays, we still managed to enjoy a variety of local delights: porridge with pig innards, meehoon in tomato soup with pork chop, fried fish and pork paste, Pai Ti with braised turnip, Tosei, Indian rice with dishes, and refreshing Ice Kacang.

Family Favorites and Reunion Dinner

After brunch, we collected Sherilyn's birthday cake from JJ Swissroll in town. Then we made quick stops at the famous Woong Kee bean curd stall to get takeaway tau fu far and Yoke Fook Moon restaurant for dim sum for those at home. 

Our reunion dinner that evening was at Exquisite Restaurant again (we had it in this restaurant too last year), where we indulged in an 8-course feast, including the traditional Yee Sang toss. Sharing this meal with my parents and brothers was one of my favorite moments of the day. These family meals remind me how precious our time together is, and I cherish the laughter and love shared around the table.

Reflecting on Family and Traditions

CNY 2025 may have been slightly different, but it was still filled with heartwarming traditions, delicious food, and the company of loved ones. I hope for many more such celebrations in the coming years, where I can continue to share meals and memories with my parents, brothers, and my own growing family. Here's to keeping traditions alive while embracing new changes as life evolves. Wishing everyone a prosperous and joyous Year of the Ssssnake! 

Lunch of 'Jai' (vegetarian dish) on Chor 1 at aunt Wendy's house (two units below ours).

From the Stadium food court - Indian Nasi Padang, chicken chop, tosei and Pai Ti. 

From the Stadium Food Court - Ice Kacang, porridge with pig innards, fried fish & pork paste, tomato soup mee hoon with pork chop.

Stadium food court - many stalls, including all of our favorites, were closed.

At the Woong Kee bean curd stall to get takeaway silky smooth tau fu far with tong yuen.
Address: 32-38A, Jalan Ali Pitchay, Taman Jubilee, 30250 Ipoh, Perak

Chor 2 reunion dinner at Exquisite Restaurant - pan-fried big prawns, suckling pig, shark's fins soup and braised chicken in truffle sauce.

Braised abalone with broccoli, fish maw and mushrooms, clay pot lap mei rice and dessert of snow fungus + red dates + dried longan and lotus seeds.

The Joys and Perils of Being a Cat Parent

Today started off as a typical morning with Haru, our timid cat, until an unexpected incident turned it into a rather painful experience. As I lifted Haru off the floor to give her a cuddle, she suddenly slipped from my hands and landed awkwardly. I still can't quite figure out how it happened, but the mishap startled her so much that her claws instinctively came out, leaving me with some painful reminders of the ordeal.

Haru, being the scaredy and timid cat that she is, had her tail fluffed up in fright as she darted away into hiding. Meanwhile, I was left wincing in pain, only to look down and see the aftermath—bloody tears on my right thigh and multiple scratches across my inner left arm and elbow. The sight of the damage made me quickly spring into action. I washed the wounds thoroughly and applied antiseptic cream to prevent them from becoming inflamed.

Unfortunately, I’m allergic to Haru’s fur, and scratches from her claws tend to itch badly and sometimes become inflamed. However, I’ve learned from past experiences that prompt care is crucial. By applying antiseptic cream immediately and continuing treatment for several days, the wounds usually heal quickly. But for now, I’m nursing fresh injuries and trying to be extra cautious around Haru to avoid a repeat incident—especially on the same wounds. Ouch!

Despite the scratches and the occasional pain, being a pet parent comes with its share of joys and challenges. Haru is such a precious part of our family, and moments like these remind me that even the most loving pets have their instincts and fears. The key is learning how to adapt and be careful while enjoying their companionship.

So, what started as a cuddle session ended with a bit of drama, but it’s all part of the unpredictable journey of having pets. Haru may have startled me today, but she also reminds me every day why I adore her so much. And next time, I’ll be more mindful when picking her up—for both her sake and mine!

No thanks to Haru.

Cheeky girl. I tried to pretend to cry in front of Haru each time she hurt me and guess what? She would get really scared and run away 😂. She's nothing like those loving cats in videos that would comfort their sad and crying parents.

The Faux Leather Fiasco: A Lesson in Fashion and Laundry

Alycia has a love for leather jackets—their cool and classy look has always captivated her. However, genuine leather jackets come with a hefty price tag, so she opted for a more affordable alternative: faux leather jackets bought online. While they look stylish, faux leather items require special care, such as hand washing with mild soap or dry cleaning.

This is where the challenge begins in our household. My girls, particularly Sherilyn, are not keen on hand washing their clothes. Sherilyn’s schedule is perpetually packed with assignments and dance practice, leaving her little time for laundry.

The other day, Sherilyn borrowed Alycia’s faux leather jacket for an event. True to form, she didn’t hand wash it afterward. Normally, I would have asked Maria, our part-time helper, to take care of delicate items like this. But Maria hasn’t been coming recently due to her difficult pregnancy.

Left to figure it out myself, I decided to put the jacket in the washer on the hand wash cycle. Big mistake. When the cycle finished, the jacket came out a complete mess. The cheap faux leather had torn, and the material disintegrated into tiny black debris that scattered everywhere—on the floors, the balcony, and even in the washer. Fortunately, I put the jacket into a fine mesh laundry bag and most of the debris was left inside the laundry bag. It took me nearly an hour of vacuuming, dry wiping, and wet wiping to clean it all up.

As expected, Alycia was furious. She blamed Sherilyn for not taking proper care of the jacket and insisted that Sherilyn pays for it. Sherilyn agreed and reimbursed her. Thankfully, the jacket wasn’t an expensive one, but it served as a hard-earned lesson for all of us.

Never buy faux leather clothing unless you’re willing to invest in dry cleaning after every wear. It’s impractical, expensive, and not worth the hassle. I’ve learned my lesson too. Years ago, I bought an expensive faux leather skirt from H&M, only to have the fabric start peeling after a few wears. Since then, I’ve sworn off faux leather clothing despite loving their look.

Sometimes, the appeal of an item isn’t worth the headache of maintaining it. This little episode has reminded me to prioritize practicality and quality over fleeting style. And for Alycia and Sherilyn? Perhaps they’ve learned a thing or two about responsibility and the true cost of fashion.

Moments before binning the faux leather jacket.

The mess the faux leather jacket caused on the floor.

Haru, Our Happy Pill

Haru, our adorable pandemic cat, has an incredible ability to comfort and help us unwind, even though she doesn’t really do much. Her mere presence in our home is a source of joy and calmness that we cherish every day.

Sherilyn has been pulling all-nighters recently to prepare for her exams. The lack of sleep had left her feeling drained and blah. But then she saw Haru next to her early yesterday morning. Without a second thought, she picked Haru up for a cuddle. In no time, the two were taking silly welfies and Sherilyn was laughing. That simple interaction was enough to lighten Sherilyn’s mood and ease the stress that had been weighing her down.

Pets like Haru are truly precious. They don’t have to perform grand gestures or tricks to bring happiness into our lives. Just being there, curling up beside us, or letting us hold them can work wonders. Cuddling with them, feeling their soft fur, and hearing their soothing purrs can melt away stress and put a genuine smile on your face.

Haru is more than just a pet; she’s a little bundle of joy who brings warmth and peace into our home. And for that, we are endlessly grateful.

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.