New Moon

I usually read my favourite blogs through Google Reader and it allows me to keep track of new posts without actually having to go to the actual sites. So today I found a post called “New Moon Goodness” from Outside the Lines, a blog that I RSS. So without looking at the source of the post I opened a new tab to be read later.

Of course reading the post title I started to think it was from another blog that I follow called “Tua Lobang - Singapore” which is an excellent blog to follow if you are in Singapore as it posts about all the great deals, sales, free giveaways, etc in Singapore. So I envisioned this to be the subject of the post:

 

Yes New Moon Abalone and their range of canned Chinese products. But it was actually the latest New Moon Theatrical Trailer from the Twilight series, if you are interested in watching the trailer please follow the link above to.

Dunno why but it made me laugh quite hysterically when the realization of what it actually was set in.

M Tickled

Mojo Month

To take a quote from a good friend who left a comment from a recent post of mine; “December is the BESTEST month!”  as well as an old post of mine called “December Flows”; December simply rocks!!!

Why you may ask:

1. Obvious reason but, in case you are new here…Mojo will be born!!!
2. If that is not enough, it is also when I was born!!!
3. And since good thing comes in threes…it was when Jesus was born too!!!

But wait there is more…..

Thanks to our low birth rate and the government’s push for more babes, the Leave Schemes are pretty cool not just for mothers but for dads as well. It breaks down like this:

• 3 days Paternity Leave (not much but when I get to the end you will see my satisfaction)
• 6 days Paid Childcare Leave per year (entitlement must be used by that calendar year)
• 6 days Unpaid Infant Care Leave (I shall leave this alone)

So if my Grand Leave Plan works out, I will not need to work most of the month of December. Coupled with the Annual Leave I have been saving up, I can stop work by the 4th Dec and only need to head back to work on the 4th of Jan 2010!!!

So finally continuing on with point 4. December 2009 is no work month for me and I therefore declare it:

Mojo Month

 

M Looking Forward (Subject to discussion with Maju)

Baby Update

We are now 78 days away from EDD. We are on track with most things but there is still quite a bit to do mainly in terms of logistics and house rearrangement to accommodate the Mojo and the rest of the good folks who have been lined up, hired, or roped into help out in her post arrival.

The wife is getting big and she is having some difficulty adjusting herself to the additional load. Imagine carrying a 10KG backpack everywhere you go and I mean everywhere! Its tough! Not to mention the other changes going on. Its amazing what mothers to be go through, a true labour of love!

Aside from this we are just trying to enjoy these 78 days, in the same spirit of laughing and utter nonsense that we love. Tomorrow is another visit to the gynae so more sonogram pictures will follow.

M can’t wait!

MMM in da House

I am sure you guys are tired of my constant complaining about the lack of good food in Science Park. If it is one thing I hate, it’s to pay for and eat unhealthy and yucky food. If it is unhealthy, it should be good, but that is certainly not the case here. I could always drive or bus out for something scrumptious but, the time and the work mountain prevents me from it.

So my prudent, smart and lovely wife, came up with an idea. She suggested I try MMM or Magic Meal Mobile. It is a meal catering service that delivers cooked meals that are based on popular diets. Since I was also supposed to lose weight but since the arrival of Mojo, I have been doing the reverse, so the timing was right and I said yes to give it a try instantly when she asked. She did suggest it before but I was not too keen but I think she got her timing perfect for me to say yes.

We decided to just go with the full day South Beach diet but without Dinner. So today is the first and after a pretty hearty breakfast, I am feeling pretty good and have this feeling that this might work. My main goal here is not to lose weight to be honest, but more of eat a better variety of healthy and delicious food. If I do lose weight as a side effect which it does say will happen then Praise the Lord!

M Full

Musical Renaissance

I have been having a bit of a musical reawakening this past week. It all started with the UK talent show, X Factor.

First was Danyl Johnson, English teacher with a passion for music who went up and gave a performance like a professional! Have watch with the linked name.

Then this week was James "Afro" Archer, a struggling musician on his last legs who came out to give a performance that got the whole audience, even Simon Cowell and me singing along to a song I never  heard before. After he sang this I listened to the original version and found Mr Afro's version better. Things sound better live when done properly!

Ever since Susan Boyle and Paul Potts, these talent show surprises give us some "Chicken Soup for the Musical Soul". So now inspired, after I drop the wife in the morning my drive to work has been a 
musical one.

I imagine myself introducing Mojo to music and I believe she will have that love for music like her Dad. Considering she's going to be in infant care near my office the drive to my office from the wife's will be both of us head banging to  Zeppelin! Imagine that!

M on Fire

There She Is!

At week 25:

• She is a healthy 740 grams
• She is around 23 cm tall (estimated because we forgot when the doc told us)
• She is sharp chinned (visible in sonogram) just like her Dad!
• She is sharp nosed (visible from another angle) just like her Dad too!
• I could not be happier

M waiting

Anonymity Failed

I have all but given up on trying to be anonymous. When I first 
started out blogging it was meant to be for myself and myself alone. 
Of course a growing fan base would not hurt and basically it has been 
a medium to meet some really awesome people, which  I have.

What I did not want was people who already knew me to find me here. Of 
course a select group would be invited but there is one group which I 
wanted to avoid but now the realisation has hit.

My previous attempts at anonymity have failed. So now I am at the 
point where I could not be bothered any longer . Why the fear considering that my blogs do not hurt anyone? I blog about happy things, funny things, 
stupid things and occasional profound things but mostly about happy 
things. Mainly because I am a super blessed man and should I really be 
shy or embarrassed about that?

Nope!

M open now

Local Movies

I am not a fan of local television. It's usually full of cheesy sitcoms and some really horrendous local game shows. But as the TV lover that I am; I get my fix from downloaded shows usually from the US, so it's through the computer, to be tongue and cheek but it's the same lah.

Only time I watch TV is when I watch Formula One and the occasional soccer or rugby match.

So after the Grand Prix I decided to channel surf. I did have Dexter waiting on the computer but I got stuck at a local movie which I ended up watching.

Invisible Children, an art film which how quite a lot of local movies get labelled as, is a movie that presents a series of troubled lives in 'boxed-up', clean and slightly-stylised kind of setting of Singapore. To the foreigner, Singapore looks like a sanitised, inhumane, almost surreal kind of place but it's is home and just like any other place it has it's darkness and the constant theme of this movie was to run away, to escape and get lost in our own created worlds.

I guess that is why this show stuck with me and struck a quiet chord in me. I remember my focus to leave this place. I never wanted to stay and set up life here. Of course this was a good 10 years ago when I felt directionless and heading for a meaningless life of work and sleep.

Thank God for Maju and soon Mojo, who makes everything meaningful and purposeful. The chord is nothing but memory now.

What started out as movie review has turned into an appreciation of the life I decided to change and since then I have been blessed and surrounded by so much favour, grace and love.

M now a local indie movie fan

He Always Makes A Way

These past few weeks have been of quiet contemplation and reflection thus, the silence on the blog front. Mainly because my mind was clouded with many things that were work related. All this roots from my job adjustment. Yes this saga has been ongoing and I believe that it has finally close to a resting point.

So after all the political battles and the lack of clear direction, things have as usual come out in my favour! Yes really it has, they always do! Sometimes I wonder why I was worried to start with but I guess it is human nature to worry about things that are not there or things that are not certain.

I was so worried about how the new workload was going to affect me, and the last thing I wanted was the job to steal time away from the wife and Mojo, especially when she comes out. I would like to be there for every moment, if possible, I know I can’t but I wish I can spent all my time with her. But at the end of the day my workload rather than being added on to was halved. Yes really, halved! Best of all, it was not me who wanted to have it halved, it was taken from me happily. This has to be God, making His way in my life to see things coming for good.

Over the past few days, I heard of some new developments through unofficial channels. It got me not so much worried but just a little concerned. First thing on my mind was Maju and Mojo, and how it will affect my time with them. On one hand it was good for my career but on the down side it also meant myself being neck deep in managerial politics, corporate subterfuge and backstabbing, which honestly does NOT appeal to me. I’d rather be neck deep in dirty Mojo diapers!

Being concerned over this, I just heard today from the same unofficial channel that this was not going to happen for me. This could be viewed as a setback career wise but, I believe it can wait for another day because my job and position will always be there but the time with my Maju and Mojo will never be replaced. I understand this concept and so I do not want to miss a thing at all. I leave this divine intervention again to my Jesus, who always makes a way for me to have what I truly and sincerely desire.

M super blessed!

My Fruity Muse

The wife has a colleague who sit next to her, who is a fruit aficionado. In case you are wondering he ain’t gay but lets not go there. She has been raving to me about these great fruits from Japan which cost an arm and a leg which are simply out of this world as well as some other exotic fruits, that this guy eats.

First there were the Japanese strawberries which did not impress me that much. The cost was pretty ok, it was not “arm and leg” sort but she insisted the more expensive ones are divine. I was not convinced. Then there was the Donut Peach. I first saw this in my office fridge, and I was utterly disgusted because it looked like a near rotten peach which had been left there to it’s own devices for a long time, which was the fate of quite a few items in this fridge. I even took a picture and looking at it could you blame me?

Eventually I learned they are meant to look that way and are indeed a proper fruit in its own right. So one day the wife brought some home (courtesy of the fruit aficionado) and so I tried them. The taste was “psycho”! Simply out of this world; juicy, sweet, fleshy and just wow! I was left with a rather ugly looking wrinkly nut at the end which was an expected end to a truly unexpected taste.

Then there was our date night when we went to Inagiku, which is a pretty fine Japanese restaurant in Singapore. The food was ok, and the wife told me the desserts are amazing so I ordered the Musk Melon, which the menu listed it at $30 (we have a 50% discount and hey its date night!). Thinking it was going to be something amazing! I was greeted with this, a measly single slice of melon with some fancy knife work . Sorry for the already eaten picture, it was after eating it, feeling super disappointed that I decided to capture it. Utter disappointment and overpriced. 

Continuing on our unintentional Japanese obsession and our Ramen dinner last night we decided to take a walk into the Japanese market. The wife grabbed this:

Looks like a simple bunch of grapes. Seeing the “Air Flown” sticker and a larger than normal grape globes I was expecting an unusual price. When the cashier rang it up it was $19.90, my eyes bulged at the wife.

She answered me, hey you always tell me how I don’t let you try these exotic fruits so there. I was skeptical to say the least. Reaching home I grabbed the camera to capture this momentous occasion of eating these 20 buck Kyoho grapes which is what they are to be exact.

Ever tried Bubble Yum Grape? Well that is exactly how these tasted but only better because it was an actual grape and not some chemical compound. The sweetness and the richness of the taste was surprising, to the point I suspected they were genetically modified. They aren’t. I could not eat them all because they were so sweet I felt my throat was getting scratchy and thought it best to save them bar risking a cough.

Now the wife says she wants to try the $80 bunch of grapes once Mojo is delivered. How about these babe!

Japanese Grapes: Only $900 a Bunch

M still skeptical

What’s in a Name

In case, you have noticed or you are new to Majimo Blogs, I am going to have a baby girl due sometime in early December, which incidentally is the best month! So among all the logistics, planning and execution that goes into an undertaking such as the introduction of a new human life. Another thing to consider is a name.

Do not be so shocked, the fella is currently known as Mojo but, we are not so cruel to leave her name as that. Well to be frank the thought did cross my mind. But imagine if I lost her in a supermarket and the announcement came, “Will the parents of Mojo, please come and collect your Mojo at the information counter!” The guy at the counter will be expecting Austin Powers & Felicity Shagwell for sure! So the Mojo name got dropped. Moreover the countless number of taunts would just be ridiculous.

So what’s in a name:

• Something exotic – something unique so no Jane or Mary (nothing against these names).
• No space age or new age – Tallulah Belle, Moon Unit or Peaches Honeyblossom Michelle Charlotte Angel Vanessa Geldof.
• Perhaps French – to maintain some ties to French heritage like my name.
• Something that will not be made fun off – as the resident nick name giver at school, I do not want my girl to suffer the same fate I inflicted on many.
• Something biblical – not a hard rule but a preference but no Ruth or Sarah too common.
• Something strong yet gentle (ok I just thought of this one and I am putting it out there)

Some reader participation is required. So folks, please chime in on possible names.

M Pondering

Baby Cometh

4 months to go and there is much to do. Things to buy, things to prepare, things to ensure are in place, people to meet, and of course the mental preparation needed to wrap our heads around parenthood. Oh yes, I forgot to mention the enormous amount of literature to read to get prepared and informed.

One of my many great strengths in the workplace is project management. So I think it is time to take control and ensure all things are in place. 5 key drivers:

1) Facilities Management

• Out with the old – a major cleaning needs to take place. This involves the clearing of one the “study room” which has morphed into a store room which actually is more of junk room. (Immediate Action)
• Putting in place some semblance of a “moving” nursery which will welcome Mojo. (Needs future action)
• Logistical plan of housing a possible total of 5-6 adults + Mojo in a house with 2 actual rooms, one study and an attic. (Needs future action)

2) Vendor Management

A particular strength of mine when dealing with outsource partners in India or China but in this case, it’s 3 possible sets of vendors;

• Confinement Lady – from Malaysia who speaks no English. (Already sorted)
• Domestic Helper – Needs to be sourced through maid agencies and by God’s grace we will have someone exceptional. (Needs future action)
• Infant Care – this has been on the cards for a while but has gone dormant and needs to be restarted. Time is running out here. (Immediate Action)

3) Acquisitions

This one is tough and expensive there is an excel sheet created by the wife which lists all the essentials that needs to be purchased for Mojo and her comfort, as well as our comfort.

• 10 things related to infrastructure
• 19 things for baby
• 8 things for us, mainly Mum

I shall delegate this to the wife to track. Wife take note! (In progress)

4) Training and Development

For this I have been delinquent, relying on my now meager but then promising efforts, it is time to step up my game. Wife has been doing the necessary and I need to get with the program.

• There is lots to read to get oneself ready – Parenting, Baby Development, Brain Development, Flash Cards, Music Enrichment and Early Nutrition all of which I have little or no formal idea. (Immediate Action)
• Pre-Natal classes will supplement majority of the curriculum but self study would go a long way – Thank God. (Needs future action)

5) Recreation

My favorite portion of the plan because with every well executed plan and successful delivery there must be some fun and celebration. Does not need to be expensive but just some couple time. Its just as important as all other points and should never be overlooked!

• Mandatory Date Night (minimum of one per month) – splash out! (Immediate Action)
• Possible weekender trip – BKK, PEN, DPS? (Needs future action)
• TV nights – something we both love and can do together (In progress)
• Always live well, laugh often, love much! (On track)

M on a mission

As I was saying

It has been a while since I have blogged and that is due to many many different reasons. I have tried several times to blog over the past few weeks but I was always left with incomplete posts that are now saved in my drafts folder. Perhaps I may complete some of them and post ‘em or leave them to oblivion.

But just to get everyone up to date on the happenings and essentially get this stuff out of my system:

1. Mojo is officially a girl, it is now 100% certain. I bought her first outfit the other day and I am so happy.
2. I finally got the new iPhone 3GS, no queuing just a longer wait. Finally a new toy.
3. Work has sort of settled down to a steady pace, ahhhh.
4. A major scare on the family front but in the end all is well. Could have been much worse but thank God it was not.
5. I just got myself a CPAP machine, so now the wife and me are getting sound sleep. Truly life changing!
6. Felt Mojo for the first time kicking on the inside of the wife’s belly. Truly an amazing feeling.

Overall, life is good as it has always been. Much to be thankful for and much to look forward to. I thank God for such a rich life as only He can provide.

M Content.

Bullies

This morning as part of my blog readings, I came across a blog post by one of my subscribed bloggers who was having an issue with name calling. It sort of brought me back to my younger days when I was in school. It might be surprising for some people to know that I was very much bullied at a very young age. If you look at me now, it is hard to imagine me being bullied but you’d probably think that I am a person who was in fact the bully. Well….read on.

I used to be teased and bullied during my early school years because of my small size. Yes, yes I used to be quite small sized when I was in Primary school. I was skinny and short and for that reason I was bullied quite a bit. What made matters worse was my rather unique and uncommon name which resembled a popular local food item. So that became the name that I was associated to for a very, very long time.

I was pushed around, swatted at the back of the head by taller boys when we were in a assembly line (arranged by height of course), and of course pushed. I hate being pushed because I was small and as the Singapore education system would have it, we were required to carry all our textbooks plus workbooks to and from school everyday, resulting in an inhumanely large and heavy back pack. So imagine small boy + heavy bag = high centre of gravity. When an object with a high centre of gravity is pushed hard from behind, it topples. So I did fall down quite dramatically, much to the anger of people behind, who did not see what happened.

So why did I not tell the teacher? Are you crazy? If the teacher escorted me everywhere I would but that was certainly not the case so, I kept quiet. Being from a Christian Brother School, when you progress to Secondary school you’d most likely move to the affiliated “big brother” school, meaning all other kids would move to the same school and that would include the bullies as well.  And so it continued and got worse of course. It got to a point that I could not take it anymore after nearly 8 years of it.

I remember there was this huge guy in my class who kept picking on me. He was almost twice my size and he was evil. From, twisted staples on my chair, to paper bullets being shot to the back of my neck, to the occasional man handling and to the daily naming calling my patience was wearing thin and a monster was brewing inside of me. Then one day, I was so angry and irritated with his antics that I lashed out at him in desperation in front of everyone in class, as luck would have it, there was a bag behind him and when he stepped back to avoid me he tripped and fell hard on his bottom much to everyone's amazement and amusement. The laughs from everyone embarrassed him so much he started to cry!! The loudest laughs came from the other kids who were bullied like me. I did not want to make him cry but, it drove the point home.

My David and Goliath episode became legendary and from that point onwards, no one messed with me, and I was left alone pretty much from a bullying perspective. Life became much better from that point onwards and I was able to start enjoying school finally.

Shamefully, when I left Secondary school and my eventual growth spurt kicked in, I became a bully myself. Yes, I did and now I am sad to admit it, and I do regret it. In my defense I was not the worse bully but I was part of that group. It did not last long as age was catching up and the bully concept was not accepted any longer the older we got. Oh well, I became the person I detested.

Its all part of growing up to be frank. The events leading up to my "uprising" has somewhat defined a part of me and a principle of mine which I still hold on to and that is, "never let anyone take advantage or take me from granted". Of course the regretful bully that I became taught me compassion and control which I have eventually come to master. Looking back, I doubt I will be the tenacious person I am if it had not been for that huge guy who bullied me non-stop.

M 

Peranakan Food and Little Ones

It was truly a fruitful Saturday. Saturdays are normally laundry days followed by French class which is followed by not much else. So last Sat was one to remember.

Cooking Class

Other than having a dream kitchen full with Miele fittings, Chef Rosaline Soon from Grandmothers’ Recipes guided us through 3 classic Peranakan dishes with some useful cooking and appliance tips to boot. It was a morning well spent. Do check out her site and if cooking or food is your thing do try out her classes, I highly recommended them for a fun and relaxing time. Do check out the wife and SY blogs for more pictures. I have a feeling we might be back for more.

Pram Shopping

Yes it is pram buying time. Some might say too early but we are spacing out our big purchases. We more or less settled on a Aprica after shopping around mainly because it is super light and easy to use, as per wife. So finally we made our way to the showroom and got us a pram.  Being an engineer, I am a sucker for technology and the tech behind this pram got me sold.

 

Dinner with Sonia

Finally to top of a great day it was more Peranakan Food from Kim Choo’s in Katong with Selvam and Sonia. In case, you guys were wondering, Selvam is my best bud and Sonia is his daughter and my Goddaughter. I kick myself for not taking any pictures but it was a night of laughs, puzzled looks as Sonia reminisced, she’s 7 and she was talking about her “old days”, and hearty ice cream at Ice Cream Chefs. BTW, we skip French class.

M Thankful

Go ahead have a Guinness!

This blog was started with the idea of capturing the positivity in my life. But if you search into it's annals it did not start that way in 2006. It was a complain site capturing my frustrations. I am glad  made the shift and have tried to keep my frustrations out and the blessings in. So today I am going to bend not break this practice as the blessing is hidden.

To say I am disappointed would be an understatement. However I knew it was coming as mental preparation was required and I was. But the drama that  ensued was really unexpected. The reactions were unexpected. It was a corporate cat fight and if I took a few steps back it was  laughable.

This change at work has been done in a way where maximum "damage" was to be inflicted as such, my cautious approach and mixed emotions. So when the news went out the folks left reeling were up in arms throwing sissy fits and I was in the middle. I hate being in the middle of silly corporate power struggles. I somehow managed to exit out relatively unscathed and with my dignity. I thank God for His divine wisdom to allow me to make the right choices and make the right actions. Of course to the outside world I may have given in too easily but it was my wish all along to let go. So in a sense I got less for more.

Lesson Learned: Trust God in all things, although the first taste might be bitter the sweetness will last a longer time. That’s why God created Guinness!

M in need of a Pint!

Dream of the Open Road

Ok I know I just got back from an amazing holiday with the wife but, for some reason the I feel that I still could do with another trip. Yes, yes I know all of you are saying, yes we all love to be on holiday all the time but with life in the way its not possible. I guess I am in a dreamy mood, just like the time I started a series on Runaway! with trips to five trips to Karakoram Highway, Seattle, Mont Saint Michel, Ireland and Emmaus Road.

But this time, I am dreaming of a road trip. I have detested road trips since my last mega road trip. It was a 4 weeks long trip with 2 good friends in a very small Toyota Sprinter across the Nullarbor Plain. If you clicked on the links, you’d appreciate the mega-ness of this trip and also understand the reason why the detestation of road trips. But now, I am dreaming of endless roads which meet the sky like what’s pictured below, which is an actual picture of the Eyre Highway on the Nullarbor Plain.

Perhaps I dream of a taste or maybe the love tank of driving needs to be filled. Yeah I think it is that. I used to love going on drives. I remember when I was working in Ang Mo Kio and for some stress relief, I used to take a drive to Tuas and back during lunch time. Perhaps I need to do that. Its nothing compared to my Nullarbor Plain trip but I do not think I will do something near that for quite a while.

I think I will find a day when the roads are not so empty and go for a long drive. 

M Dreaming Again…

ME Shall Overcome

As previously blogged, I got promoted, rather surprisingly by God’s grace and currently I am in the thick of things. I also mentioned the spin portion which basically is the fact that I am replacing someone who is leaving, so my new team was not expecting me but rather was expecting something else so that was something that had to be managed and it’s never easy to manage people’s dashed expectations. Then there was my current team who I was expecting to be happy or sad but they were indifferent, almost to the point of “who cares”.

I normally get a little ruffled and move on quickly when such situations occur but this time I found myself, being severely bothered. I found myself starting to feel extremely sensitive and every small thing led to an inward reaction and questions. “Did I say something wrong?”, “Did I do something wrong?”, “What happened?”, “Arrgggh, what’s going on???”

 

The wife, thinks I am pregnant too or her hormones have spread to me. Don’t get me wrong I am chuffed with the opportunity and the challenge and all the fantastic things in my life. But, I am not in a great place at the moment mentally and emotionally. Just feeling a little down…….. but I know ME! And ME shall overcome! My strength is not in me but it is in the one who is greater than me.

M Overcome

Revelation at Gelenggang

There is a new establishment that I noticed at Jalan Gelenggang, which is close to Jalan Leban off Upper Thomson Road. This is a small nest of eateries that often gets missed but its quite familiar to the folks who live around the area. There are a few stars here like Springleaf Taiwan Porridge, Romano’s and a few other popular eateries which are normal chock full of people but personally I will not mention them because they suck or I have not tried them, mostly the former being the case.

Back to the new discovery, its call Al Divo and yesterday we had a first taste of this place. Verdict: We were blown away! At least I was. I did not have much promise for this place as there have been a few eateries opening at this block, which did not survive as this part is quite hidden compared to Jalan Leban. Its right next to Cherie Hearts which incidentally is on the short list for Mojo’s infant care.

The overall ambience of Al Divo is dimly lit, ideal for a romantic dinner, and is very Italian as the tasteful tricolor theme coupled with dark maroon heavy curtains; quite exclusive and expensive looking. Since, we were not expecting much, we did not bring a camera which I now regret.

The chefs are Italians, and that held promise for me because nothing like Italian food cooked by a Chinese or Indian for authenticity. We had some issues with ordering as the waiting staff was not familiar and the Italian chef who spoke little English did not help either. Forgivable for a new place but, the wife was on the clock as she needed to finish a report so speed was essential for us to get in and out.

She ordered her usual marinara, which was not on the menu, but it was an adaptation from Frutti di Mare which was on the menu and we requested for no cream just tomato sauce. I went for Linguine with prawns and pesto. I was hoping that they got the order correct due to the adaptation as personally, I wanted this place to shine, because so far it was so good, although they did not serve any bread but I found out later than they have a cover charge of $5 a diner for dinner, which gives you an amuse bouche, water, soft drinks and aqua della casa (their own flavoured sparkling water).

Food came after a short wait, and presentation wise, it was delectable. We quickly dug in and a were amazed by the authenticity of the cuisine and the richness of the sauces. We walloped what we had fairly quickly as the food was really good. The wife, said it was better than Valentino’s and I agree as to me it was the best Italian food I have tried ever! Rich flavor, bits of chunky garlic, think sauce reductions, pump seafood and al dente pasta! I finished first so I glanced at the dessert menu.

Now I did tell the wife I will not have any desserts after Maldives as I was having desserts for every lunch and dinner there. But there was a signature specialty from the desserts chef, that I had to taste to believe. Its called Melanzine alla Valentina, Valentina being the chef’s name. It’s Eggplant with Chocolate; yup you heard me right, brinjal and chocolate! Normally veges and chocolate do not mix so I had to try it. And folks to be honest it was amazing. Even the wife, who normally shuns desserts had 3 mouthfuls and as a measure that is pretty awesome. Must try, if the trip is made.

Overall, I guess the low expectation levels were super exceeded so even if you have high expectation I think Al Divo can live up to it. They are new so teething issues will be there but, do make the trip down to this corner of Singapore to try this place. I do not normally write food reviews but I think the outstanding food here bears this longish post. Oh price wise, it is a little on the high side, but this place borders on fine dining. We spent $65 in total but it was worth it and I am sure we will be back for more.

M pleasantly surprised.

Back to Work

The first few days have been a rollercoaster of sorts. When I sent out my “out of office” notice last week I received a call from my CEO who was expecting to speak to me the following week when he was in Singapore regarding a job change; “a promotion” he called it. First off, I was surprised he called me as it was the first time he did that, on my direct line, and next was this promotion. I knew it was a spin off something else but I was happy to be singled out for it. Praise God for His favor.

But honestly who does that!??? Dropping a bomb like that just when you are about to go on a much needed holiday. Its seems almost sadistic. You guys might be thinking, eh promotion, what is there to be worried about? Well I did say it was “a spin” so it was not that straightforward, sometimes it never is.

So I tried as much as possible to block this “promotion” out of my mind when I was in the Maldives but it kept creeping in till my wife said “"Ok, lets talk it out”. Smart woman that one. The thoughts did plague me a few times after our discussion but the draw of the island was too great.

So now that I am back to work, the usual stuffs hitting the fan and there is so much to do and as expected “the spin” is on maximum load. For me the maintenance of sanity is key in these trying times. Thank God, for my support structure of my wife, friend and God. But what has kept me sane other than this are the fading memories of Maldives which have been immortalized in the pictures I have captured. Here is one of my favorites in HDR:

 

 

Imagine this vision in front of you as you lie on a four poster bed, with a good book in your hands. An endless soundtrack of crashing waves is playing in the background with some Mozart or Norah Jones on top playing on CD just for an additional mood.

The gentle warm sea breeze is wafting in your open villa door but its cool inside thanks to air conditioning. The love of your life is next to you and this vision of a lifetime in front of you…….

Ahhhhhh…….I am relaxed now…are you? How can you not be!

M still sane.

A good one

This has been a glorious vacation. Much more than all the rest that I have had over the years. Well it's different.

Imagine a small island which in less than 3 minute walk you are on the other side, completely surrounded by the bluest water you have ever seen and with the constant sounds of waves crashing. Ideal relaxation? Yes!

We are at our 4th day and I am still insatiable. My idea of a perfect vacation is staying or travelling until one is raring to go back to work! Let's hope by Saturday night I am that way. Wishful for sure I could stay here a month if I had my way. Hmm I wonder if they are looking for an IT Manager?

M in Heaven

It’s a …..

So the much awaited gynae appointment passed last Saturday. Our last visit was over a month ago and I was really wondering what Mojo progress will be and in a certain sense I missed seeing the fella. So there was quite a bit of excitement for me. But what was more exciting was the fact that it was time to determine the sex of Mojo. Looking back at my previous posts, I am not sure if I mentioned what my preference was in terms of sex of Mojo. But in any case we were believing that it was a boy. More so with the “old wives” indicators; more morning sickness, pointy and high belly and when the father puts on more weight than mom during first trimester all pointed to Mojo being a boy.

Now we are in week 17, Mojo has grown and is now a full 98.6mm, the head with the eye sockets and nose and chin are more apparent. What is also visible but not apparent here, is Mojo’s fully formed bones which are all in the right place. So all is well, for me it was a sense of relief not that I was worried but, it was just comforting to see Mojo growing well and strong too. Mojo was rolling and turning around through out the visit.

As the gynae was talking to us, Mojo jumped to the other side of the womb. Here you can see the spine more clearly. So now, for the moment we have all been waiting for (at least for the two of us).

Is Mojo a He or a She? With all the movement and jumping that was going on Mojo managed to give us a glimpse of her bum and there was no birdy there so ladies and gentlemen, we are having a GIRL! For now it is 80% certain as per the gynae but in any case, for now we will go with the premise that Mojo is a her!

To be brutally honest, as I walked out of clinic, I was a little sad that Mojo was not a boy, I was looking forward to roughing things with him and doing whatever Fathers and Sons do but after a while it was not so much a downer because I was thinking of all the things I can do with HER and was getting excited:

• I can date her for a movie and dinner when mum is out with her friends
• I will teach her what to expect from a man
• I can teach her to be street smart unlike her mum
• I can look forward to terrorizing her prospective boyfriends when that time comes.

And what’s better than being pampered not just by one girl but by two. I should be so blessed! Yes, I am an extremely blessed man!

M having a GIRL!

Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough

Enigmatic lyrics from the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The man has passed, and as it comes to light no matter what he has become or transformed to in his last years, one thing Michael will always be remembered for is his music.

 

For me the love started very young. I remember it was my 6th birthday and all I wanted was an Off the Wall cassette, and I am sure if I look for it, I will find it. It was the start of my love of music and my first piece of music, that I owned.

I played this tape over and over again and each word of every song in still in my head! This is probably my favorite MJ album of all time. Whenever a song from this album comes on the radio whatever conversation that I am, in stops and I will sing along, much to the embarrassment of my wife who is usually the one I am talking to at the time.

As time went on the music got better and better and MJ went on to music icon status. It was an absolute thrill for me to watch him live at the National Stadium during his Dangerous tour. It was my first live concert and the stadium was completely packed out and the previous times I saw that was during National Day and the Pope John Paul’s visit some years back!

So today as we wish him farewell, I doubt his music will ever die nor will his moves, which will be copied/modified for years to come. I mean come on how cool is the Moonwalk! So join me in reminisce of this legend. As crazy and wacko as he maybe he is still the most electrifying performer of our time, and I doubt few will come close for a long time.

M Tapping my Feet

Joby, Kate Spade and the White Shirt

Yesterday was our 2nd wedding anniversary. Yes we are two years young and personally these two years have been the best years of my life. I am so glad for the Maju who has been my best friend and I look forward to more of our adventures together. Best of all, its another good reason to get and give presents!!!! So here’s the haul and damage…muhahahaha…

My Haul

 

Since it was rather close to Father’s Day the wife gave me my gift early. It was what I have been wanting, to complement my photographer gear. It was a Joby SLR Zoom tripod something to have when going on vacation rather than lugging around my heavy duty tripod, which I never do. 

Just a point for the photo enthusiast, this tripod does not come with a ball head that was purchased separately by the wife! Honestly this is a great tripod, light and easy to use. Highly recommended!

 

Next up was not really a planned purchase by the wife but since we were at the photo supply store she asked me if I still need to get the backup thingy when we travel. What it is is a backup drive to copy photos to when the card is full. After walking around Funan for a while the guy at the photo shop recommended me against this solution and said best to just get a big capacity cards. So here’s the next one!

  

That’s not all, I had lunch delivered to me from my favorite restaurant, Yellow Light. This was a little bit of a surprise not because of the food delivery but more the food deliverer. It was our good friend Patrick who was doing the wife a favour. Thanks Patrick for coming all the way. Best of all it was my favorite dishes Miang Kum, Pad Thai, and Red Rubies

What more can a guy ask for? Not much, but there was one more little cherry on top. I have been using the same pair of Ray Bans sunnies for 5 years now, was a gift from the wife during a trip to Brisbane. They served me well but have more or less fallen apart, so I have been wanting a new one. So the wife, put a gift “voucher” Maju style in a card when we had dinner.

Finally I am completely ready for our “Pre Parenthood” Trip now, thanks to Maju!

The Damage

Presents are not really my thing. I normally don’t do well with them but once in a while there is some brilliance and I guess I am proud of what I got this time. First wave was a set of books from MPH, sounds ordinary but believe they are not. I do not have a picture of them but they are rather useful and interesting books that she was looking out for, so just take my word for it. She found this stashed in the toilet on the 22nd. Thinking that was it, she was a little disappointed with just books, come on anyone would be, but of course that was not all.

The next morning she woke up to find her usual bag replaced with this. Its a Kate Spade Clementine Baby bag which she has been eyeing for a while. To make her look glam while trundling around with the Mojo with a nice looking bag hanging from the nice stroller, we are shopping for now. It actually comes with a strap to fasten to the stroller as well as a Kate Spade changing mat, so quite ingenious for women’s fashion. Oh well she loves it and that is what is important.

That was it as far as the planned presents for the wife. But one final event just to end of the post which somewhat falls into the damage department. I have a white shirt that I really like and I think I look good in. Problem with me, is that I almost always manage to mess it up in a small way during meals. Could be a splash of curry or sauce, so usually I am ultra careful when donning this shirt. So since we were both quite full from lunch we decided to have steamboat at our favorite Tian Fu Steamboat. I was ultra careful and every time I felt as though something splashed I would check my shirt, the wife was also careful to not be the cause of any spillage too.

So towards the end of meal when the broth level was low and we were at the last strips of beef, as I was about to take out a piece of meat when a splash of the hot broth hit my hand and I jerked….hard! All I heard was the sound of my chopsticks and bowl flying and hitting the ground and the realization that my worst fears were realized. I just could not help but laugh as we both broke out in silly laughter much to the shock and amazement of the other folks in the full restaurant.

 

To put it simply there is a picture in our kitchen which says “Live Much, Love Much, Laugh Much" which we bought randomly and I guess that sums US up.  We pamper each other the best way we know how and we try to make the best of what God has give us, and He has given us lots and we laugh as often as we get the chance to do so!

So babe, don’t stop living, loving and laughing, I won’t!!

Majimo 

 

Left Behind

For a total of 10 years I have been off and on reading the “Left Behind” series of books by by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. It basically chronicles the events after the Rapture and the years after that, where the Book of Revelation in the Bible gets interpreted and dramatized as a series of novels. Whenever, folks get converted to Christianity the first book of the Bible they head for is Book of Revelation mainly because it speaks of what is to come. However, they do not get very far as the Book of Revelation is one tough book to read and understand as it is full of symbols. So if you are a new Christian or if you are long time believer and want to finally read the Book of Revelation, the “Left Behind” series is a good start point with a little bit of a fictional license. One point to note though is that the entire series spans 16 novels so its not a quicker way.

My story and how I got reading these books, starts in 1999 when I went on a month long business trip to Kokomo, Indiana where my company at the time Delphi was headquartered. Now if you have never heard of Kokomo, get the visual image with the Beach Boys song playing in the background out of your head, its nothing like it at all. Its Indiana’s 15th most populous city with 46,000 people censured there as of 2000. What all this translates to is the fact that Kokomo is a boring place for a city boy like me.

My favorite hangouts during this month long trip and a few years later another 4 month stint was the Markland Mall in particularly the Books-A-Million (as pictured below thanks to Google Maps).

And it was here one night I heard two guys talking to each other while looking at a book and this was what they said: “Wow, spreading the Word of God via the Internet!” and that peaked my curiosity for some reason. In 1999, I was not as firm in my belief as I am today but I was enthralled nonetheless more so by the fact of how could the Word of God go via Internet, at that time only e-mail, research and rudimentary chatting was done on the Internet. I had just completed 5 other books during my stay in a matter of 2 weeks and the thought of another 2 weeks without any book reading ideas scared me, and so I guess this was a sign, and moreover the fact that 3 of the books in the series was in that branch’s best sellers list probably got to purchase the first in the series.

So it started!

I was utterly hooked by the second book and when I finished one I headed to good ol’ Books-A-Million to get the next novel in the series. It ended there, as Assassins was the latest at the time i.e: Book 6. When I returned to Kokomo a few years later in 2002, I continued with;

Sometime between 2002 and 2006ish I read the next book in the series, The Remnant, not sure when exactly. If you are wondering why I have all the book covers in this post, it is because the covers are nice and glossy which was another reason I decided to buy Book 1. After book 10, there was a pause for some reason and now when I am currently in a book drought so to speak, as every book that I have picked has been nothing short of so so. I have decided to resume, but this time a little differently rather than buying the next book in the series I borrowed it from the National Library. I have 10 of these books lying around and honestly I do not think I want another book shelf clogger but I would like to get to the end of the series.

 

So as I re-embark on this series I thought it will be nice to share these books with you guys and perhaps one of you may have stumbled upon or even read one of them. If you have, gimme a shout and let me know what you think. I started reading the 11th book and I am back into that reading sweet spot that does not let me stop. So this has led me to sleep really late and being increasingly tired, during the hours of 2.30 to 4pm, like right now. So I guess it is time for a caffeine fix.

M Reading, Yawning and Enjoying!

Happy Times

One thing that has happened with the arrival of Mojo, is that the wife and I are spending lots more time together.

We already spend a lot of time together, more so than most couples. But now there seems to be a difference and to be honest I can't really put my finger on what it is. But there is something.

There is more need to lean on one another, more cooking collaborations or rather home cooking, more TV comfort food and just overall fun, laughter and madcap nonsense from Maju & Maji.

So even though the mountains may challenge and depths confound, we will always maintain that forever happy and crazy outlook, cause it's so much better when faced together in one accord.

M Happy

13 weeks

The pain was unbearable for her. Every cringe was a reflective heartache I felt myself. I hate to see the wife in pain. No one would not like to see their loved ones in pain.

We rushed to the gynae the next morning, managed to see another doctor as regular one was on vacation thank God for favour. More favour came when we to heard that Mojo is fine and growing well but there was a tiny hiccup for Mum.

The pain will be there for a while and will go away in time. How long? Don't know, it depends. Fibroid has doubled in size and is now put pressure on back and other internals thus the pain. Doctor prescribed painkillers, rest and endurance.

Our big guy prescribed HC, oil and the word which we stand on and REST. Although home rest was needed I felt we should not miss our leaders meeting so we went and were blessed in the knowledge that the shrinking has begun and will disappear completely.

M standing in REST

“Pre Parenthood” Trip

Some couples like to mark their end of couple-hood and start of parenthood with a good vacation. Something substantial and memorable! And since the wife and me are seriously due for one, we thought we make this a good one. The planning started early! What was even better was that the best airline in the world; Singapore Airlines was having their 10th anniversary celebration and they had some really good deals. So time to take advantage.

Choices of destinations we had were: London, Sydney, Auckland and Zurich. After much debate and considering many many factors we decided on London and proceeded to book our tickets. It was completely free because we used our points and this got us two return Economy class tickets to London on the A380 (we still had to fork out some cash for the taxes though). I was excited, having never been to London.

We thought going to London alone would be a waste since essentially it is a city and I am not one for cities. So we looked around Europe for another destination and eventually settled on Italy. We almost settled on Paris, because we love Paris so much, but we decided to go someplace new. So the itinerary highlights of the Italy trip would be the following:

Pisa

San Gimignano, Tuscany and the jewel of the trip the Amalfi Coast (below picture taken by MorBCN);

The flight we were booked for 19th May 2009. But as life would have it, we had to cancel as it would have proved to be too hard, with Maju is her preggers state, what with Europe being all about walking. It would not have been an enjoyable trip, so I saw no point to it. Good thing, well kinda good thing, was the fact since H1N1 was flying around the airline gave us a full refund and so we did not waste a single cent.

So are we giving up? Now way! We have found and booked us on a much more relaxing trip! In an effort to mark this milestone. So where to?

Picture from www.mymaldives.com

Maldives baby! This island in particular! Looks psycho right! I will take some of my own pictures and share when we are back. For now we are just waiting for the days to pass by before wheels up!

M excited

First Real Picture

11th Week; and another visit to the gynae. With some anticipation and for me, hoping that my car will not be moved to the other carpark by the valet due to TMC’s parking situation was on my mind, we arrived early with a little traffic drama.

We had to do the OSCAR test. This is typically done after the 12th week, but since we were planning on going for our European “pre-parenthood” trip we had to schedule it earlier and as a result we had no appointment but had to queue. As early risers we were both hoping to get into see doc as early as possible and indeed we managed to. We were in and out in record time, with some waiting of course.

Following this. we headed to our usual gynae. The wife told me she was a little worried because the person, who did the ultrasound for the OSCAR test, was making these confused “Hmmm” sounds indicating like something was wrong. Following which she asked if I was outside. She proceeded to call me in and when I came in I saw the worried look on Maju. She proceeded to show us the hand, the leg, the head, the heartbeat, the spine, the length, etc but no bad news. Perhaps a bad bedside manner, well our gynae will clear it up.

So we headed to ACJ and waited. We got in eventually, she calmed all fears and worries saying all is well. Of course it will be, Mojo is blessed and favoured. We complained about the escalating morning sickness and the tough few weeks Maju had, which eventually led us to cancel our European “pre-parenthood” trip. The consolation was the fact that morning sickness is a good sign of Mojo’s growth and development. So in a sense we were gladly comforted. So here’s Mojo:

The first thing the wife said when she saw the print out more closely was “Yes, a sharp nose!”. To be frank pretty prominent one too. You see, I have a rather large pointy nose, while she has a flat nose, actually to be honest a flat face. So as not to capitalise all the pictures which I have been there are more posted on Maju’s Blog so do go there if you want to see more. There is an interesting one of Mojo so do have a looksy.

M Worry Free

Lost in Lost

I have been obsessed with Lost for the past few weeks and to be honest when I get into a particular show I tend to forget the world, considering how much of a couch potato I am and the fact that this is my comfort food, and my only means for unwinding.

Imagine, 3 weeks ago I had never watched a single episode of Lost and as of last night I watched the final episode of Season 5 which was aired on 13th May 2009 in the US. Meaning I watched 103 episodes in 3 weeks! Guess you are starting to see the obsessive nature of this habit. Can I help it, of course I can; its not an addiction but it’s comfort to me. Some folks, like a Whiskey Sour, some like a smooth glass of Sem Sav or a smoking Cohiba, I like my TV!

M back to normal ;-)

9th week

NOTE: This post was written in the 9th week, that is 6 weeks ago.

I am tired yet extremely upbeat. Got a message to do something but I am not sure. Can I?

Hahahaha conventional wisdom again confounding me. The wife is sick woke up with a high fever and so she stayed home and rested. But the fever didn't go away for a while and it turned out to be a viral fever. This coupled with the peak of morning sickness, it was not pleasant for her.

Feeling frustrated with her symptoms and predicament, when I got home one day I was prompted to pray for her, apply oil on her, take HC and decided to take the next day off.

That night when I finally hit the sack I looked across and saw a peace on her face that I have not seen for a long time. I saw the beauty and grace that I have missed so much, thus leading to this post. In the morning, she got up with no more fever and that was the end of it!

PTL! All glory to Him who can when I can't.

M Trustin'

Tadpole

My previous post mentioned that Mojo was 1 centimetre, actually that is incorrect. The water bag is 1cm, Mojo is not even noticeable to the naked eye. Most couples realise that they are pregnant, at month two of pregnancy, but we knew at month one itself because we were too eager and we were so sure that we would be preggers that we were just waiting for any symptom to confirm and when one symptoms occurred the rest is history.

So 2nd appointment rolls around, and we were looking forward to see how much the fella has progressed now that we were at 8 weeks. Here are the pictures:

I guess at this point the title of this post is starting to gel. The wife is experiencing morning sickness  not in the morning but at nights before bedtime, and due to this the sleep was affected. We were believing for better days but according to all, if these symptoms are there then Mojo is growing well and strong. Here is to our 19.2mm Mojo at 8 Weeks. This bible verse helped:

Isaiah 53:4-5 (NKJV)

⁴ Surely He has borne our griefs
      And carried our sorrows;
      Yet we esteemed Him stricken,
      Smitten by God, and afflicted.
⁵ But He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was bruised for our iniquities;
      The chastisement for our peace was upon Him,
      And by His stripes we are healed.

M Believing

My Take on How to be a Better Father

I know this is premature but there is no way to fully prepare oneself for Fatherhood, so here are some pointers for where I am starting at:

1. Time – Children spell Love as T.I.M.E and this time is not spent in front of the TV or head buried in a laptop but quality time. Once they grow up there is no way of re-living the times lost. So before regret, establish that fatherly bond.

2. Love and Honour Moms – This is often forgotten but I feel it’s the most important, children are the best “mimicers” and if we show love, respect and honor towards our wives and their mothers, the child will know that 1) people are to be treated with respect and 2) when they grow up they know how to treat their partners.

3. Be the example – We can talk/lecture all we want to but, if we as fathers do not practice what we preach we are pointless. Kids physically grow up but mentally and emotionally they grow up by learning from us. We need to be the guide in a world without boundaries.

4. Hug them as often as you can – As men, we are often shy to show affection but, children have an uncanny knack of bringing on smiles. So don’t hold back on the affection; let go and show them your soft side, there will be time for seriousness when it is required.

5. Have Fun – Although this list may sound serious, the idea is to not talk things too seriously. Learn from them, as they will teach us invaluable lessons that no one else can. We need to show them, that we are happy and not stressed over needless things. Have fun no matter what!

6. Let Go and Let God - Fatherhood can be lonely. What are we to do when there is no one to turn to in tough situations, there is no father to the father. But with God as my eternal father in whom, I can always turn to when I am lost and He will show me the way in all things.

Honestly, I know these 6 points are certainly not exhaustive and I will be the first one to put my hand up and say that I am a NOOB as there is no way I know it all. But somehow I felt the need to put these points down following some research on the subject to which, I was surprised to find very little.

So what else do you reckon does it take to be a good father, chime in and teach me.

M Learning

First Pictures

Being a visual person, the idea of the full gravity of the pregnancy and the act of “wrapping my head” around the idea of impending fatherhood seemed far away. Considering that Mojo pops in December I believed that there is still time a plenty. With that in the back of my head, we headed to the gynae for our second appointment, at which point we were fairly certain that we were indeed pregnant.

So after some talk shop and congratulation wishes, the wife jumps onto the bed thingy for our first sonogram. My heart was racing and the images of many movies and TV shows of couples seeing their first images of their child came to my mind. Will I get teary, will be wife be able to contain herself, will be so overwhelmed with the images that we’d turn to mush?

 

Honestly, looking at these images of a black oval, we really did not understand. Did I mention we were complete noobs. It was one cm in length and essentially was a globule. Where’s the fella? Then the gynae said this is the water bag, and eventually this bag will expand to house the baby. Ahhhhh…..its all coming together now.

So there were no tears, no goo goo eyes made at each other, but rather puzzled looks and I am sure both the wife and me, said to yourselves; “Is that it?” The gynae seemed to be more excited for us and she presented us with a “Welcome Bag” filled with goodies from the hospital sponsors. Oh well, its a start, and though the over emotional feelings were not there, we knew that this was the start of something special.

M 1CM and growing