tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39508463997127542272024-03-13T11:50:16.789+08:00{ oh dear ria }a blog about family, travel, life style, well being & home cookingohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-3234906603575581562013-06-25T00:43:00.001+08:002013-06-25T00:43:59.891+08:00my love/hate blogging siteHello Internet,<div><br></div><div>As crazy I am, at this time I have moved back to my old Wordpress ( yes, again! ). Sorry for my changed of heart. I just still can't decide 100% if I like Blogger better than Wordpress. </div><div><br></div><div>So, I am not brave enough to ask you to follow my blog but if you miss me and want to know what I've been up to, please visit me in www.ohdearria.wordpress.com </div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile I still keep this site, just in case! :) </div><div><br></div><div>Good night or maybe good morning! </div>ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-84364754758554155222013-06-07T23:39:00.000+08:002013-06-08T11:30:19.672+08:00restless soul<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Sometimes mister hubby asks if we would be willing to pack up and travel around in our ute for a year. I don't take him seriously and I can't say I am entirely keen on the idea too. But lately I have been thinking about packing up the house and just go. More likely actually I have been wanting to live somewhere else. I am itchy to move out of this city life to somewhere new, new scenery and experience. With that, I want to build a new life, life that I've been dreaming for so long. I always want to do <i>something</i> besides being a mother. But this<i> something</i> at the moment is a bit absurd, impossible, uncertain, to be achieved. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Maybe I am a bit of hippy or what, or maybe I am bored ( but I am not allowed to be bored because my life is wonderful and easy! ) and just feeling a bit low. I always feel like I want to move after couple years of living in the same place. When I was a couple months old my parents moved from the town I was born to another town. We stayed there for a year or so then we packed up and moved to another island. Couple years on this island we moved to another town before we made our way to the big city where I spent most of my childhood and adulthood. When I got married, my newly hubby took me to this city where we live now. Though we then moved to another country for couple years then we came back here with a new additions to our family.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgUwWpI3JTM/UbH423sg_FI/AAAAAAAAAOo/a9OCghs-dYs/s1600/travel4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgUwWpI3JTM/UbH423sg_FI/AAAAAAAAAOo/a9OCghs-dYs/s320/travel4.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Since then we moved house twice, then that's it we settled. It took me almost five years or more to build a friendship with the people that I have known now and to be comfortable in my own skin. I am a bit slow learner in building a relationship with people, either they are western or asian. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I love this life I live, don't get me wrong. I love my little family with my whole heart. We have a home that big enough for us. We have good job in that we watch the dollars we spend. And yet, at times I still long for ever changing scenery. It's the practical versus emotional debate and it's a heavy one. My practical side tells me
it's not fair to just take my boys away from school and their friends.
Because they also have their own life. Though some say children are
easy to make new friends.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vvnhNqC_HSk/UbH4armxueI/AAAAAAAAAOg/oHh__oVgfmU/s1600/249457266830229886_lOxIpTHr_c.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vvnhNqC_HSk/UbH4armxueI/AAAAAAAAAOg/oHh__oVgfmU/s320/249457266830229886_lOxIpTHr_c.jpg" width="212" /></a></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I have to remember it's no longer about me and how I want to spend my
day. I have family to care for and consider. I go on with the norm
from day to day, because the norm is my life right now.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I want to raise my boys with the "go, see, do" mentality. I want them to recognize how wonderful traveling can broaden their horizon. It can mold and define them. I want them to learn to live life from traveling.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Meanwhile I will keep planting the seed and let it sit in the event that one day I may grow some nuts.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i>note</i>: Dear N & D, never stay stagnant. Even while you are sitting in one place, may your soul be jumping :)</span></span></div>
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<br />ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-10895538708183731442013-05-26T09:54:00.001+08:002013-06-08T11:29:49.821+08:00being a solo traveler <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I am writing this at Changi International airport, waiting for my connecting flight to HongKong. I travel a lot lately. For pleasure and family purpose. From one airport to another. I get used to the hustle and bustle of airport atmosphere. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I love traveling. I love going on holiday with my family or just by myself. You might think I am weird, but I am a loner so it's no problem for me eating by myself or noone to talk to. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Taking a trip by myself can actually be empowering. I can set my own schedule, do the things I would like to do, and embark on my own personal adventures. Plus, I don't have to worry about anyone other than myself. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I don't mind traveling with friend/s too. Though I will feel sorry for them, because I can't tolerate lazy and un-cooperative travel companion, and high maintenance ones. I travel on budget so I won't stay at five star hotels and eating at expensive diner. I would love too, of course, if someone generous enough to pay for me .</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">My accommodation is either a friend's house or budget hotel as long as it has clean shower and toilette. I don't want to spend a lot of money only for accommodation, unless you are in honeymoon where all you want just hole up in the nice cosy room with the man you love. Unfortunately the honeymoon stage had passed in my life cycle :) Besides most of the time I will be out exploring so why have a posh room if I only use for sleeping mainly? </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Though I like holidaying with my family, but sometimes it's nice to travel just by myself. To get out of that mummy uniform and just become myself. No kids tagging along, no husband nagging. For a short period it's just nice to have myself for myself. Being away from my little family makes me appreciate for what I have and when I am back I am fully recharged to be a better mother and wife. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Make sure before you go, you book your accommodation ahead and if you stay with your friend to let her/him know your arrival date and/or itinerary at least a week before. Buy a map or Lonely Planet book of your destination. It packs with lot information and good advice. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">In general, common sense will take you as far as you will need to go. Listen to your gut, if you feel unsafe follow your instincts. That voice inside your head is usually right. Don't be afraid to ask people if you get lost or not sure about something. They won't bite, just probably will stare at you longer than they should. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Having fun and drinking is alright on vacation but try to limit your alcohol intake. Being drunk with trusted friend who can take you home is one thing. But when you are alone in an unfamiliar place, trust nobody but yourself. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Last but not least just enjoy your time. Make friends if there's a chance and stay safe. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Gotta go now. I have flight to catch! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">xoxo</span></span></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-77446680801357810032013-05-19T00:40:00.000+08:002013-05-19T00:42:49.245+08:00this mama life<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">This week feels forever. Shorter day light longer night time. It is official that summer is end and winter is creeping in.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AEf0mc_lyo/UZesyjSWOfI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/qGGc5VKey8o/s1600/IMG_8713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AEf0mc_lyo/UZesyjSWOfI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/qGGc5VKey8o/s400/IMG_8713.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I am back to the usual bump and grind. Back to being solo parenting again. Back to do every thing by myself. Make all the decisions and responsible for almost every thing. And back to those anxious feelings at night time. I am alone and there is no one to tag me out or give me a hug at the end of the day. On the good days, when I was asked how I cope with this pattern of life I would say, invite some friends over for dinner or go<span style="font-size: small;"> for shopping,</span> on the hard days, I just want to cry and scream!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sometimes I feel like I am going <span style="font-size: small;">mental</span> and can't cope<span style="font-size: small;"> and just want to give up.</span> But I <span style="font-size: small;">know I can't<span style="font-size: small;">. <span style="font-size: small;">The other night we were watching telly and my T1 <span style="font-size: small;">out of the blue just said, 'Daddy actually half live in <span style="font-size: small;">Sydney<span style="font-size: small;">'. It <span style="font-size: small;">broke</span> my heart. I know this <span style="font-size: small;">is not gonna be forever. I understand he is lonely too and it's not easy work all the time.<span style="font-size: small;"> I know that he cares. </span> <span style="font-size: small;">All these feelings should not dictate our ( or m<span style="font-size: small;">ine precisely)</span> life.<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> But it is so damn HARD! We are all <span style="font-size: small;">responsible <span style="font-size: small;">for this good life we have together. Every now and then we have to make some sacrifice <span style="font-size: small;">because of the life style we choose to live in. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">A good cry <span style="font-size: small;">and baking <span style="font-size: small;">delicious <span style="font-size: small;">chocolate cake<span style="font-size: small;"> usually put me back in to perspective a<span style="font-size: small;">nd make me strong again to go through the days until the <span style="font-size: small;">whole two weeks come to an end. Watching my kids playing outside, jumping and running, seeing those <span style="font-size: small;">sweet little faces<span style="font-size: small;">, <span style="font-size: small;">brighten my day.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Meanwhile<span style="font-size: small;"> if you <span style="font-size: small;">are wonderin<span style="font-size: small;">g <span style="font-size: small;">how</span> in the world this might end up? My answer, it's still in the wind<span style="font-size: small;">. In the end, we are all trying to get to the same damn place, happiness. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </div>
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ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-19002955159961486852013-05-15T23:47:00.000+08:002013-05-15T23:50:39.242+08:00what's for dinner : salmon & broccolli pasta<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I normally don't blog about food here. As I have my own space for all the recipes on my other blog. But since I am still in two minds about merging my recipes into this blog or not, I thought why not give it a try and have a look!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This recipe is actually for toddler. I used to make this when my boys were about 2 until 4 years old. But, because mister hubby and I also eat toddler food ( why not, they are yummy and healthy too ) so I modified a bit for this recipe. Still use the same ingredients only adding garlic + salt + pepper. I apologize as the photos are not a good quality ones. I really didn't have time to take picture with my camera so my Iphone did the job.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I<b>ngredients:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">20g butter</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3 garlic, diced </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">3 green onions, chopped finely</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 broccoli, roughly chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">8 tablespoon water</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">100g spreadable cream cheese</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1 can drained red salmon or 2 pieces fresh salmon (if you using fresh salmon, just lightly grilled it first)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">200 g pasta</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Meanwhile, cook pasta in medium saucepan of boiling water, uncovered, until just tender; drain.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Gently toss pasta in a bowl with salmon mixture. Add Parmesan cheese before serving. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> My boys love it. We love it too!</span></span><br />
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<br />ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-14400641487494025432013-05-14T23:54:00.001+08:002013-05-19T00:44:15.516+08:00camping with kids<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is part two of our school holiday-extravaganza! Yes, after a trip to Bali, my darling husband decided to spend his two weeks off bonding with his lovely sons and gorgeous wife. He opted for road trip to down south. As much as I would love to stay under the five star hotel or resort I was presented with camping at the caravan park under the blue sky or dark actually at night time, with a star :)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">After we <span style="font-size: small;">had </span>organized who was going to look after all our animals, got stock up on food etc, checked the engine and tires of our Ute, as early as 5.30 am we were all up and off we went! It took about 5 hours or more to Bremer Bay. Stopped at Williams for fuel and yummy pies, then Kataning to let the snot-gobblers ran wild at the cool park!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">We arrived at Bremer Bay caravan park around two in the afternoon. Took almost an hour more to set up our tents and other stuff. Then we took a stroll along the beach before headed back to the camp to cook dinner. First night, spring rolls for entree and some meats and sausages on barbie plus salad. The caravan park is pretty good, shower is clean, hot water is hot and it's free. Unlike some caravan parks we have to put $2 coins for four minutes shower<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The next day we went fishing and exploring other beaches along the coast. If the water <span style="font-size: small;">wasn't</span> that cold I would love to swim. We spent three days in Bremer Bay, more fishing, checking out the beaches, and just chill. Second night, I cook chicken curry for dinner and pasta with tuna and basil pesto for the last night. Pretty good, right?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The third night in Bremer we got hit by heavy rains and so windy. Thank God it happened around 4 in the morning but we were safe and dry inside our tents. It wasn't a nice day to pack up our gear at all. I was glad that we left for Albany and checked in at the cabin. Dry and warm! Oh and television and WIFI! Hooray!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love Albany. I could live there. It's a pretty port city in the southern region of Western Australia. We stayed for two nights and tried to squeezed as many point of interest as we could. It's just breathtaking and picturesque some of those national parks and bays. It's my first time to visit Albany, so I will be back for sure to explore more. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">My kids had lot of fun during this road trip. They love the beach, they like to explore, to climb, to run wild, and being outdoor. They also love museum and hot chocolate. Since this is not their first road tripping and camping ( we did it a year ago<a href="http://ohdearria.blogspot.com.au/2012_03_01_archive.html" target="_blank"> here</a> ) they get used to long drive and sleep in their own tents, then now they are older they can help us setting up and packing up the tents which is a good point. What I need to train them more is to do the dishes after dinner!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">This holiday life had to end. School started last week. Mister hubby back to work. I am back flying solo again. I hope you also had good break from school/work and got time to relax and re-charge.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Note: Point of interest in Albany, The Gap and Nature Bridge, Whale Word museu<span style="font-size: small;">m, Torndirrup National Park, Frenchman Bay, Two Peoples Bay, and many m<span style="font-size: small;">ore<span style="font-size: small;">. </span></span></span></span></i></span></div>
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<br />ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-75118632954822311182013-05-13T23:59:00.001+08:002013-05-19T00:44:35.348+08:00bali with kids<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The </span>school holiday that just passed was pretty full on. My boys and I went to Bali for couple days. The main purpose of the visit was to attend my cousin wedding. Mister Hubby was busy with work so unfortunately couldn't join the fun. </span></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2p1PpQlrGE/UZEIOMG_n0I/AAAAAAAAAHE/058De4V9_v8/s1600/12475_541289209255839_1234376561_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We flew with Jetstar as usual, thank God it was punctual. We arrived in Bali past noon and went straight to the hotel. This time <span style="font-size: small;">I chose </span>Seminyak area<span style="font-size: small;"> to stay<span style="font-size: small;">, where all other families from Jakarta ( including my mother ) and Manado were staying too.</span></span> The boys went straight to the pool and didn't come out until we almost left for dinner.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2p1PpQlrGE/UZEIOMG_n0I/AAAAAAAAAHE/058De4V9_v8/s1600/12475_541289209255839_1234376561_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2p1PpQlrGE/UZEIOMG_n0I/AAAAAAAAAHE/058De4V9_v8/s320/12475_541289209255839_1234376561_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Over dinner I had been thinking what was I gonna do to keep the boys occupied during this 5 days. For sure I couldn't drag them around Kuta Center every day or along the Seminyak road to check out the gorgeous shop<span style="font-size: small;">s<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span> I was very glad that I found <a href="http://www.baliwithkids.com/Guidebook/" target="_blank">this book</a>! It packs with practical <span style="font-size: small;">information </span>and activities for kids from all aspects, i.e.; nature, art and culture, action,water sports plus the kids friendly restaurants as well. Highly recommended!</span></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2p1PpQlrGE/UZEIOMG_n0I/AAAAAAAAAHE/058De4V9_v8/s1600/12475_541289209255839_1234376561_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So, first day I took them to do surfing class. There are many places that offer surf class for children and adults. I spent almost half the day watching them surfing at Kuta beach, taking pictures, and just hanging out around the area. In the evening we went to see the Magic Show at Kuta Theatre. It was very good show, it combined culture, magic and fun.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The next day before the wedding ceremony we went to Seminyak beach and hired surf boards so the boys can surf again. I went for a dip in the ocean, it was refreshing. Had lunch at Chez Gado Gado which was average for my liking.</span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The wedding ceremony and reception was in Uluwatu at Blue Point resort. The setting was magnificent, we sat around the pool facing the open ocean, it was just beautiful. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sunday, I went to check out the Jenggala ceramic in Jimbaran. While I was browsing around the boys were taking art lesson where they can choose the items and paint them.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Went up to Ubud the next day with the whole family from Manado and also my mother. While in Ubud I can't not having babi guling (roast pork) at Ibu Oka! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Last day in Bali, I took the boys to Waterbom park and spent almost the whole day having fun with <span style="font-size: small;">all the </span>slide<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>rides. I was exhausted, they were happy. </span></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z3diED3qpg/UZED5LQK7wI/AAAAAAAAAGg/DU5wlYuf3Cg/s1600/IMG_2728.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I think because my kids are getting older now so it is much easier to travel solo with them. As long as I can find things to entertain them which included outdoor activities, arts stuff, and water sports, they pretty much are content</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">One more thing, our fave beach cafe is called Sand Pit at jalan Double Six. Their pizza and mango juice are delicious, you should try!</span></span></div>
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<br />ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-82486378237402459212013-05-13T16:44:00.000+08:002013-05-13T16:44:06.338+08:00lust after<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/karl-buckled.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/karl-buckled.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-778" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/karl-buckled.jpg" height="690" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/01/karl-buckled.jpg" title="karl buckled" width="460" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">
love this buckled leather heels from Karl! A bit too avant-garde to be
school pick-up appropriate, but these shoes would look amazing with
skinny jeans or legging, day or night.</span></span>ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-754236719072444662013-05-13T11:09:00.000+08:002013-05-14T00:02:46.977+08:00the day mums get breakfast made & served<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gBx2l4ukCXQ/UZBTtduypQI/AAAAAAAAAEc/aKxo_rXpShY/s1600/IMG_8664.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gBx2l4ukCXQ/UZBTtduypQI/AAAAAAAAAEc/aKxo_rXpShY/s320/IMG_8664.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Well, I don't know about you but I had a good time yesterday. No, I didn't get breakfast made and served in bed ( first because they forgot, second I hate eating in my bed ) in fact I had to make them quick breakfast before we headed to a footy game. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">While making their breakfast and a quick sip of coffee for me, I asked them where's my Mother's Day kisses and cuddles? T1 gasped and ran out quickly and came back with a big parcel wrapped in blue polka dots paper. While T2, as always a cuddle and kissy person gave me big hugs and a wet kiss :) I was presented with <span style="font-size: small;">beautiful home made card that this year <span style="font-size: small;">there were less spelling errors.</span> </span> My T1 did himself painted <span style="font-size: small;">and draw this cute fishy that I guess it resembles myself? I love it! It had been weeks that I wasn't allowed to enter/clean his room because he was making something special for Mother's Day.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Then <span style="font-size: small;">someone knocked at the door, turned out <span style="font-size: small;">it's a deli<span style="font-size: small;">very man with long brown box that says roses only. I<span style="font-size: small;">t was really a<span style="font-size: small;"> sweet surpr<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">is</span>e from <span style="font-size: small;">mister hubby, I didn't expect him to do th<span style="font-size: small;">at. How long ago since I got <span style="font-size: small;">roses send to my door? Can't even remember! The roses are soft pink colored <span style="font-size: small;">with a box of <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">chocolate</span> and a <span style="font-size: small;">card. The words are so sweet that make me <span style="font-size: small;">teary e<span style="font-size: small;">yes.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">After the footy game the boys and I went to have lunch at my favorite place near the river. While we were waiting for our meals<span style="font-size: small;"> to come, we saw dolphins danc<span style="font-size: small;">ing and swimming around very close to us. I wasn't quick enough to snap it<span style="font-size: small;">! We had a wonderful meals and though the day was bit chilly but <span style="font-size: small;">the sun was up. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love Mother's Day, I feel special and spoilt and loved. Being a <span style="font-size: small;">full time<span style="font-size: small;"> mother is one of the highest salaries job<span style="font-size: small;">s, since the payment is pure love. Although some days being a mother sucks that I<span style="font-size: small;">'d like to be an A<span style="font-size: small;">unt or just a good family friend :)<span style="font-size: small;">. Those moments when they turn their nose up at dinner or complain that the day was 'b<span style="font-size: small;">oring'<span style="font-size: small;">, that they suck at footy or maths, all those things I've been given,</span></span> <span style="font-size: small;">but </span>I won't change my titt<span style="font-size: small;">le<span style="font-size: small;"> and my job d<span style="font-size: small;">escription as a mother. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pdbP2-QZMIk/UZBTqcUXOSI/AAAAAAAAAEU/RwGFeZCtalg/s1600/IMG_8633.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Motherhood is not an easy job<span style="font-size: small;">. Some of us received it as a surprise<span style="font-size: small;">, <span style="font-size: small;">some missed out completely, oth<span style="font-size: small;">ers had to go long and windy road. <span style="font-size: small;">Whatever road you had gone through I hope you enjoyed your special day<span style="font-size: small;"> and it's not about gift but to <span style="font-size: small;">show love and <span style="font-size: small;">appreciation to that one person who gave you life.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-28345153457483502302013-04-10T16:02:00.000+08:002013-05-09T10:17:37.158+08:00home tour: living room & dining room<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Inspired by one of those blogs that I blog-walking, I decided to
de-clutter and re-arranged our living room. This is the problem with
me, when I decided to clean up the house that means some furniture would
move from its corner place, a lamp would be replaced with a candle and
if I could re-locate the fire-place I woul<span style="font-size: small;">d!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> Mr. Hubby often complains,
every time he comes home something will be moving away from its
previous place make it difficult for him to navigate where's the best
angle to watch telly and/or to get easy reach for a remote control!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today I'll be sharing the living room and a bit of dining room. Enjoy!</span></span><br />
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<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_2211.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_2211.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2211" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1948" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_2211.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_2211.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2218.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2218.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2218" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1954" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2218.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2218.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a> <a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2274.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2274.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2274" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1955" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2274.jpg?w=682" height="400" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2274.jpg?w=682" width="266" /></a> <a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2280.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2280.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2280" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1956" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2280.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2280.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2225.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2225.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2225" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1957" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2225.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2225.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a> <a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2221.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2221.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2221" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1958" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2221.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2221.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a> <a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2259.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2259.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2259" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1959" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2259.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2259.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a> <a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2244.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2244.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2244" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1966" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2244.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2244.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2251.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2251.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2251" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1961" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2251.jpg?w=1024" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2251.jpg?w=1024" width="400" /></a><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2268.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2268.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2268" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-1962" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2268.jpg?w=682" height="400" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/img_2268.jpg?w=682" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Thank you for taking a peek at my home :)</span></span>ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-16133805160803501272013-03-15T16:41:00.000+08:002013-05-07T17:13:22.763+08:00i try<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The last two weeks that had passed was pretty hectic but in a happy
and fun way. We spent a lot of our week-ends while Mr. Hubby was here
doing some fun things at the beach, either it was body surfing, or just
catching the waves and got dump at the beach with full sand under our
bathers, crabbing, walking and beach hopping. We did participated in
Cleaning Up Australia, though not so many rubbish to collect ( is it a
good sign?) around our river. The kids were happy, the dog was happy
too, everybody was in the good mood.</span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Then the mood changed. Mr.
Hubby had to go back to work and this time for two weeks full. So, it's
going to be just me and the kids....oh and the dog and chooks. T1 kept
asking if Hubby could stay for his swimming carnival on Monday, which
was he knew the answer pretty sure, but good on trying kiddo.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It
doesn't get any easier. I told myself I was going to be different this
year. That I can handle and cope well. I got better at saying good-bye
and he always messaged when he landed. I try not to get bitter when he
rang and told me he's had a nice dinner with the team work while I was
in the middle between cooking dinner and helping the kids with their
homework.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Some days are ok, but some days I feel suffocate with
homework, being a mum's taxi, and doing house chores, and nobody to talk
to or to share with at the end of the day. Yesterday, I was helping T2
to do his English homework. It was raining and thunderstorm outside,
while I was struggling to teach him to count how many syllables in a
word 'laughter' , my mental and crazy dog was howling and scratching
like a mad woman at the door wanted to get inside. Of course I couldn't
let him in, because first I was in the middle of frustration with T2,
second that dog was soaking wet and covered in a mud! So, I sent T1 who
had finished his homework to tell that dog to get his own chill pill!
Anyhow, we finally let him in through the laundry door straight to the
garage where he was happily stayed there til we forget him! That was a
story of my life.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2030.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2030.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2030" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1843" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2030.jpg" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2030.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2038.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2038.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2038" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1844" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2038.jpg" height="266" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/img_2038.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When
T1 got second place at the swimming carnival and received his medal, he
whispered to me, I wish Dad could have watched me. Yes sweetheart, I
wish the same too.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Meanwhile it's just us now.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It never gets any easier.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Here's a bit of Macy. Yes, I try.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span></span><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/p6kY_I7rUiE/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/p6kY_I7rUiE&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/p6kY_I7rUiE&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-3279594031090119612013-03-03T21:08:00.000+08:002013-05-11T23:55:12.088+08:00sunset<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/20130306-212151.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/20130306-212151.jpg"><img alt="20130306-212151.jpg" class="alignnone size-full" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/20130306-212151.jpg" height="400" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/20130306-212151.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It
was a lovely evening at the Point Walter Reserve. There was a concert
singing beautiful songs and lot of fun stuff for the kids and they are
all free!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /> Just relax and enjoy the evening with your friends and family. Love this little city!</span></span></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-71832522680304009262013-02-12T00:06:00.000+08:002013-05-16T00:07:58.201+08:00happy birthday sam!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/sammypup.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/sammypup.jpg"><img alt="sammypup" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1435" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/sammypup.jpg" height="400" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/sammypup.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Yesterday, Sammy turned 5 years old. Happy birthday buddy....look how cute you are when you were just 5 months old!</span></span></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-82428558441358877792013-02-07T20:59:00.000+08:002013-05-08T22:55:34.742+08:00way of life<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My friend's sister just passed away couple days ago. She's still
young. Her sickness was so sudden. Though I didn't know her very well
but somehow I keep thinking of her. I mean, life is so precious. She was
way too young to leave this universe. She still has dreams and wishe<span style="font-size: small;">s.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For
that matter, I have been in deep thinking that not how much we own the
cars, the house, the cash but what matter is how we live and love and
how we spend our dash. As a human being I tend to focus on what I don't
have instead of the other way around, and always complaining about my
life instead of being grateful.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So, I think I should learn to
appreciate life every moment and put my unnecessary concerns aside and
just be thankful that I am healthy, I have food in my fridge and a roof
over my head and the most important thing I have my little family who
love me unconditionally.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/d914c38769a4dc9293b3ecfc64187d40.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/d914c38769a4dc9293b3ecfc64187d40.jpg"><img alt="d914c38769a4dc9293b3ecfc64187d40" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1429" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/d914c38769a4dc9293b3ecfc64187d40.jpg" height="332" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/d914c38769a4dc9293b3ecfc64187d40.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-9342017025865953372013-02-01T21:13:00.000+08:002013-05-11T21:15:27.259+08:00fun fountain!<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter">
<dl class="wp-caption aligncenter" data-mce-style="width: 670px;" id="attachment_1415" style="width: 670px;">
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_7190.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_7190.jpg"><img alt="Water Labyrinth " class="size-full wp-image-1415" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_7190.jpg" height="492" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/img_7190.jpg" width="660" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Water Labyrinth</span></span></dd></dl>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Took
the boys to the city couple days ago. While they were having a splash I
enjoyed my ice coffee. It was about <span style="font-size: small;">36C degree <span style="font-size: small;">so t</span></span>his water f<span style="font-size: small;">ountain</span> is a great entertainment in this hot summer
time.<span style="font-size: small;"> Plus it's free too.</span> Love my city! :)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This picture taken with my Iphone.</span></span></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-38132649006821153422013-01-15T23:01:00.000+08:002013-05-15T23:03:54.657+08:002012 in words and photos<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I guess it's not too late to post this favorites pictures from the
last year. As you know I am not making any resolutions for the new
year. But I am hoping for just three little things : good health,
"something" for my mother that hopefully will be done by this year, and
if the situation and condition are allowed a little work for myself out
of my mama's job.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Here are the highlights of my 2012 in words:</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Between
March and April we spent five full weeks on big road trips. We drove
from Western Australia across to Tasmania. Our accommodation varied from
B & B, a friend's house, a little cottage, a relative's house, a
little shack near the beach and just with our two tents out in the bush.
There's something about the joys of a road trip. Hopping in and out of
the car for new experiences, witnessing amazing scenery, and getting a
chance to try lots of new food. Most of the times was pretty good and
smooth, but we also had some rough times. Still we enjoyed our journey
and I can't wait for another road trip!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In July I went back to my
home town while my husband and the boys went back to his home town.
While I was enjoying a bit of retail therapy, pampering myself,
eating yummy good food and caught up with my friends, they encountered a little
farm life style and father and son quality time.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Darwin was our
next destination in August! It was also my brother-in-law's 50th
birthday, so we had a big celebration at the very nice resort! It was
my second time to Darwin after more than ten years ago. It was awesome
time, we caught up with all our cousins and relatives who also came to
wish my brother-in-law a happy 50th!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">During school holidays in
October, we paid a visit to Sydney where my husband has been working for
couple months. I took the Boys to Taronga zoo, Luna park, museums,
Sydney tower and did the sky walk during the afternoon while hubby was
working. I also met my cousin who I haven't seen for very long time,
more than ten years! Last time we took the boys to Sydney was when they
were 5 years old.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Then came December, a month that just passed,
we spent two weeks altogether for Christmas and New Year in Jakarta and
Jogjakarta. This time I had managed to arrange a trip for us to Kota
Tua or Old Batavia. We had bike riding around the old Batavia, which
was fun and very interesting. Some of the buildings are ruined and I
guess haunted. The old café Batavia is still there and still amazed me!
Going to Jogjakarta by train was a fun experience for my boys. We had
pretty good time exploring the culture of Jogjakarta, and of course the
famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples are a must to do while in
Jogjakarta!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'd like to begin the new year with good spirit, regular exercise, clean eating, stay healthy and happy! :)</span></span><br />
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ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-53706314337606123942013-01-10T15:59:00.000+08:002013-05-07T17:13:53.140+08:00it's that time of the year!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/travel2.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/travel2.jpg"><img alt="travel2" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1391" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/travel2.jpg?w=164" height="300" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/travel2.jpg?w=164" width="164" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Every
time our family has to go back to Indonesia to see my mother or to
spend Christmas together I always dread the idea that we are going to
JAKARTA. I am happy to go home alone or just with my kids. But not
with hubby. Why? Because Jakarta can be cruel to people who can't
tolerate the pollution and the traffic. Jakarta is not friendly for
people who love outdoor things, and honestly it is not that kind to
children either. </span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I get used to the hustle and bustle in Jakarta, because
I grew up and spent almost my adult time there. But for my hubby and
kids, sometimes it can be rough. I can handle my children, although
some of the kids play grounds are inside the mall, but once they are
there they are happy, well at least for couple hours.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">My hubby is a
different story. It's always a dilemma (for me) to take him back to my
home town. He doesn't like the traffic, doesn't like the malls,
doesn't like the noise, and doesn't really enjoy the night life too
much. So, even though I would like him to see my mother and other
relatives as often as possible, sometimes I wish he didn't come, because
he can give me headache and we argue more than we have to! But I
suppose to be fair..he still comes and tries to make the best of
it...sometimes.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We are always trying to be equal in spending
Christmas and New Year with both side of the family. If this year we go
to Indonesia then next year will be in Australia. So, last year it
was Jakarta's turn. Here we go, let's the fun start :) </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The boys and I
flew first then hubby came two days before Christmas. I took him to
Kota Tua or also known as Old Batavia or Old Jakarta. According to the
Wikipedia : <i>Kota Tua / Old Batavia is reminiscent of colonial times
in the 16th century when the city was only within Batavia's walled
compound, while the surrounding areas was only kampung / villages.
Batavia as it was named by the Dutch, was once a center of commerce for
the whole continent due to its strategic location and abundant resource. </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1001.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1001.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1001" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1407" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1001.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1001.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">First
we hired bikes, which cost us Rp.35.000 (AUSD 3.50) per bike for two
hours with a tour guide. So, my brother was with T1 and my hubby was
with T2 while I got a ride with the tour guide, yay! :) He took us
around the port town, first stop was Toko Merah (Red Shop) the
building's red color contributes to its current name. Toko Merah was
built in 1730 as the residence of the Dutch Governor and then it was
converted into a hotel from 1786 to 1808. Then became an office
building. They are doing some renovations when we visited as they are
going to make it as a gallery and conference hall.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1024.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1024.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1024" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1024.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1024.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1028.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1028.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1028" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1028.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1028.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Second
stop was Jembatan Intan (Intan bridge). It was constructed by the
Dutch government in the 17t century to connect West Kali Besar and East
Kali Besar. The brigde was made of wood and equipped with leverage to
get the lower side of the bridge up when a ship passed by. The ship
delivered spices to the warehouse in Old Batavia. Oh, not to mention
that the famous Vincent van Gogh had visited Batavia and painted a
painting of Kota Intan Bridge!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1002.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1002.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1002" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1371" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1002.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1002.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Next
stop was Sunda Kelapa Harbour, the oldest port in Jakarta. The harbor
used to be very busy with foreign ships from China, South India, Japan
and Middle East. It also conducted trading activities such as horses,
wine, coffee, silk, textiles, perfume, to be traded with the spices. We
also stopped at Maritime Museum near Sunda Kelapa Harbor.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1007.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1007.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1007" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1372" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1007.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1007.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1018.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1018.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1018" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1373" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1018.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1018.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After
finishing our bike riding, we had lunch and cold drinks at Cafe
Batavia. I love this café. It preserves historical value. The
furniture, nice tables, chairs, lamps and cabinets in the café using
Java teak wood produced in the late of 19th century. Up to the second
floor, the entire wall was filled with photo frames from the 60's and
maybe 70's it's just a cool touch to the café atmosphere. Oh...and the
male's urinal is backed by a long mirror which I found quite
interesting and strange :p Yes, I went inside the male toilet!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/418618_483163511735076_1662337347_n.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/418618_483163511735076_1662337347_n.jpg"><img alt="418618_483163511735076_1662337347_n" class="size-full wp-image-1395 aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/418618_483163511735076_1662337347_n.jpg" height="492" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/418618_483163511735076_1662337347_n.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1040.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1040.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1040" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1374" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1040.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1040.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1042.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1042.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1042" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1375" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1042.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1042.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After
spending Christmas time with family and relatives, the next day we
caught a train to Jogjakarta. I had booked our tickets earlier online
from Australia. The official site for Kereta Api Indonesia is pretty
good. Click <a data-mce-href="http://www.kereta-api.co.id/" href="http://www.kereta-api.co.id/">here </a>for the link. A day before our departure I went to <a data-mce-href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gambir_Station" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gambir_Station">Gambir station </a>and
showed them my booking number for them to replace it with real
tickets. This way you save time queuing on the D-day. We took an
executive train, it was not that bad, just a bit old. And it was only
delayed for half an hour :p The view along was beautiful, while it took
8hrs, my kids loved the train journey. From Gambir station we only
stopped once at Cirebon and continue to Jogjakarta. If you have time I
recommend to take the train to Jogjakarta, and/or you can fly back home.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1068.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1068.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1068" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1376" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1068.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1068.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We stayed for four nights in Jogjakarta at <a data-mce-href="http://www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-5451-the-phoenix-hotel-yogyakarta-mgallery-collection/index.shtml" href="http://www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-5451-the-phoenix-hotel-yogyakarta-mgallery-collection/index.shtml">The Phoenix Hotel</a>
, a very nice pleasant hotel with a touch of colonial and traditional
blend together. The breakfast is so good with lots of variety. I love
the<i> bubur ayam</i> though! :) In front of the hotel there are always <i>becaks</i> to take you around the city.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/407807_483878668330227_237812850_n.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/407807_483878668330227_237812850_n.jpg"><img alt="407807_483878668330227_237812850_n" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/407807_483878668330227_237812850_n.jpg" height="883" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/407807_483878668330227_237812850_n.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_10801.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_10801.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1080" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_10801.jpg" height="990" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_10801.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">While
in Jogjakarta, I think it's a must to see Borobudur Temple and
Prambanan Temple. We went beach hopping, though Indrayanti beach is
nice, it's so touristy and very crowded so we opted for Sandranan beach
which is not that far from Indrayanti, about 10 minutes driving. Pok
Tunggal beach is also nice and quieter.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: justify;">
<dl id="attachment_1385">
<dt><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1223.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1223.jpg"><img alt="Borobudur Temple" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1223.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1223.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></dt>
<dd style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Borobudur Temple</span></span></dd></dl>
</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: justify;">
<dl id="attachment_1388">
<dt><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1280.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1280.jpg"><img alt="Prambanan Temple" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1280.jpg" height="990" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1280.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></dt>
<dd style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Prambanan Temple</span></span></dd></dl>
</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: justify;">
<dl id="attachment_1383">
<dt><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1147.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1147.jpg"><img alt="Pok Tunggal Beach" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1147.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1147.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></dt>
<dd style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pok Tunggal Beach</span></span></dd></dl>
</div>
<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: justify;">
<dl class="wp-caption aligncenter" data-mce-style="width: 670px;" id="attachment_1384" style="width: 670px;">
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1095.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1095.jpg"><img alt="Sandranan Beach" class="size-full wp-image-1384" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1095.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1095.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sandranan Beach</span></span></dd></dl>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Also
we went to Merapi in a jeep which was quite fun, my boys love it. For
2 hours trip cost us Rp.350.000 (AUSD 35). The driver took us around
the flanks of the volcano, over the pyroclastic flows, and we also
visited the destroyed houses from the last eruption which was in
November 2010.</span></span></div>
<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: justify;">
<dl class="wp-caption aligncenter" data-mce-style="width: 670px;" id="attachment_1386" style="width: 670px;">
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1270.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1270.jpg"><img alt="Lava tour jeep" class="size-full wp-image-1386" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1270.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1270.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lava tour jeep</span></span></dd></dl>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1258.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1258.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1258" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1408" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1258.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1258.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div class="size-full wp-image-1388" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1260.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1260.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1260" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1409" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1260.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1260.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div class="size-full wp-image-1388" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="size-full wp-image-1388" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Desa
Tembi or Tembi village is in southern of Jogjakarta, about 20 minutes
driving, is also worth to visit. It is so quiet, the village is
surrounded by paddy fields. With 'dokar' traditional transportation
drawn with a horse you can explore the village and pay a visit to Rumah
Budaya Tembi (Tembi House of Culture), House of Batik, or Bambu
Pendopo. D'omah hotel / villa is very nice and cosy with traditional
Java touch if you plan to stay a night or so.</span></span></div>
<div class="size-full wp-image-1388" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: justify;">
<dl class="wp-caption aligncenter" data-mce-style="width: 670px;" id="attachment_1389" style="width: 670px;">
<dt class="wp-caption-dt"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1350.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1350.jpg"><img alt="Desa Tembi" class="size-full wp-image-1389" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1350.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1350.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Desa Tembi ( D'omah )</span></span></dd></dl>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1352.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1352.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1352" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1390" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1352.jpg" height="440" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/img_1352.jpg" width="660" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Beyond
all doubt I had a good time in Jakarta, even though I was stuck in
traffic for 3 hours and fantastic days in Jogjakarta. It's just nice to
see your family back home...even grumpy hubby seemed happy
enough...most of the time.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-51431341878530536782013-01-02T23:11:00.000+08:002013-05-08T23:12:39.979+08:00hello new year!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">( I wrote this post from my mobile while I was in Jakarta. Somehow, I couldn't publish it. Hope it won't be too late! )</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Dear 2013,</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It's
a new year! New mistakes are going to make along with new promises and
regrets. All I am asking that you will be as good as last year or
better.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am not praying for a miracle and I have no new year's
resolutions, I just want a good health for me and my little family and
for the ones dearest and closest to me. That is the most important
thing in my life.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This post is short. As I just recovering from
welcoming a new year last night until the wee hours, way past my
bedtime! I have 'family duty' to attend this afternoon so better get my
kids and myself ready.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/126452702007814143_ukfwjahp_c.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/126452702007814143_ukfwjahp_c.jpg"><img alt="126452702007814143_UkFwJAhp_c" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1292" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/126452702007814143_ukfwjahp_c.jpg" height="350" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/126452702007814143_ukfwjahp_c.jpg" width="263" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Happy 2013 internet!</span></span></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-31013013059484333382012-12-18T23:15:00.000+08:002013-05-11T20:56:32.837+08:00happy holidays!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Just a short post this time, as I am leaving for holiday tonight. I
am looking forward to spend Christmas with my mother and family and
closest friends back in Jakarta. But I am so not looking forward for
boarding a flight at 2.30 AM with two kids in tow. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Well, what can I
say, budget airline? I am just hoping and really praying that the flight
is on time and no delay, yes please Jetstar?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Perhaps, this will
be my last post in 2012. So here to a happy holiday and Merry Christmas
to all of you who celebrate it! Be good, sing carols, be merry and don't
forget to give Santa milk and cookies :) </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-picasa-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Cr4euAbS83I/UYpsots5CqI/AAAAAAAAACk/rVx8TMjHYdg/s1600/IMG_6011.MOV" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3D3c4316e1487046ee%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1370618275%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3D5A63BE2C56FDD965098BAFDA0F0561BA7F683E0D.BE82E4ED5724493C3E01B82790AD4D105C67EBAB%26key%3Dlh1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fredirector.googlevideo.com%2Fvideoplayback%3Fid%3D3c4316e1487046ee%26itag%3D18%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1370618275%26sparams%3Did%2Citag%2Csource%2Cip%2Cipbits%2Cexpire%26signature%3D5A63BE2C56FDD965098BAFDA0F0561BA7F683E0D.BE82E4ED5724493C3E01B82790AD4D105C67EBAB%26key%3Dlh1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">HoHoHo!</span></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-25125899056231397262012-12-05T23:23:00.000+08:002013-05-08T23:26:26.969+08:00this mama<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/89509111313481486_didrvthg_c.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/89509111313481486_didrvthg_c.jpg"><img alt="89509111313481486_DidRVthG_c" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1244" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/89509111313481486_didrvthg_c.jpg?w=291" height="300" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/89509111313481486_didrvthg_c.jpg?w=291" width="291" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This mama here is feeling a bit uncertain and kind of lost. This mama here is in dilemma.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">But
this mama tries hard to be strong and face whatever it is going to
happen. This mama will do her best to do what is best for all of us.
It's not gonna be easy but this mama will find the way to cope.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sometimes,
this mama wish that she were a boy so she could make the rules as she
goes. But she's just a mama so she should understand.</span></span></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-8478666582391830862012-11-06T21:03:00.000+08:002013-05-11T21:04:49.591+08:00thirteen years on<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/wedding_ringonbible_anniversary_sm.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/wedding_ringonbible_anniversary_sm.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1125" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/wedding_ringonbible_anniversary_sm.jpg" height="250" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/wedding_ringonbible_anniversary_sm.jpg" title="wedding_ringonbible_anniversary_sm" width="240" /></a></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Today is our 13th wedding anniversary.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Thirteen years of marriage. Eight a half years as parents.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">There are days that I feel like I want to strangle you, but there are days that I miss you so much.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">You taught me to be independent, you help me being confident in myself, and you made me tough. You also make me happy.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Happy anniversary my love, it's been far from ordinary.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_0246.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_0246.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1127" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_0246.jpg" height="675" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_0246.jpg" title="IMG_0246" width="450" /></a></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_1539.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_1539.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1126" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_1539.jpg" height="336" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/img_1539.jpg" title="IMG_1539" width="450" /></a></div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-16527103168485746332012-10-19T16:26:00.000+08:002013-05-13T16:27:07.685+08:00love or loathe?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Yay it's Friday! So in love with you Friday! Put your feed up after that long hard work and enjoy the rest of the week-end :)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This
Alexander McQueen Runway Platform will sure brighten up your Friday
night out! But I am not sure if you can dance let alone walk comfortably
on it :) I actually don't really know how you can walk on this heelless
sandals?</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/486884_448698685172736_428132060_n.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/486884_448698685172736_428132060_n.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1115" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/486884_448698685172736_428132060_n.jpg" height="460" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/486884_448698685172736_428132060_n.jpg" title="486884_448698685172736_428132060_n" width="450" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Happy Friday everyone!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo</span></span>ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-33809511693971376432012-10-18T21:19:00.000+08:002013-05-11T21:19:47.900+08:00keep calm and eat chocolate that's what i do!<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Mr. Hubby
is traveling a lot these days. He's been commuting interstate and only
home on the week-ends. I miss him. The Boys miss him. The dog misses
him. We miss him.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It's
not the empty side in the bed or the empty chair at the dining table,
but the realization at the end of the day that he's not going to walk
through the door with his usual, "Daddy's home" .</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I
always nervous every time Mr. Hubby has to go away. I have this acute
paranoia that I can't sleep the whole night until early morning. I will
hear every noises and my imagination will go wild. I know it's
pathetic but I can't help. I just have to live with it. Usually on the
forth days I will crash and sleep through the night. And the next day
the cycle will begin again.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Being
a single parent when he's away it's not easy for me. Boys after school
activities is one thing, I have to drop one boy here then get to drive
to another place for the other one. Then the homework that I sometimes
feel like it's my homework rather than the kid's! Not to mention the
argument I have to sort out about who is going to have shower first or
the dog has been fed yet, forms from school that need to be signed,
sport carnival to attend, and all the different dramas that can happen
in my household.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When
he's away I sometimes think about all the single parent out there and
how lonely those nights can be when you don't have someone to bounce
ideas off of or to make decision or to share the worries that had been
in the back of your mind. I also admire their strength, being a solo
parent is tough. I've got it easy compare to these women.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">He
often asks me, "so you don't think you can cope when I'm away?" and my
answer is always the same, "well, I suppose I can, I have to, I have no
choice". I am okay but I don't like being a solo parent. I need Mr.
Hubby, I couldn't imagine doing this all without him.</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/240590805063104940_p2gocyla_c.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/240590805063104940_p2gocyla_c.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1111" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/240590805063104940_p2gocyla_c.jpg?w=241" height="300" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/240590805063104940_p2gocyla_c.jpg?w=241" title="240590805063104940_p2GoCyla_c" width="241" /></a></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="text-align: left;">
xoxo</div>
ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-52451093645831607512012-10-07T21:23:00.000+08:002013-05-11T21:24:40.358+08:00on the fourth finger<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">" Where's your wedding ring? Why don't you put it on?"</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">"You don't wear your wedding ring, why?"</span></span></div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/art-wedding-rig-420x0.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/art-wedding-rig-420x0.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1091" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/art-wedding-rig-420x0.jpg?w=201" height="300" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/art-wedding-rig-420x0.jpg?w=201" title="art-wedding-rig-420x0" width="201" /></a> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Those two sentences have become very familiar to me. Some of my
acquaintances often asked me the same question whenever they see me
without my wedding band. At first, I would always answer politely that I
forgot to put it on as I was in the hurry, or just completely forgot.
But sometimes this repeated question can be a little annoying and
tiring.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">So, what if I don't have my wedding ring on my finger?
"Oh, because people will think that you're not married and you can
cheat" or " You don't put it on so you can flirt with the boys when you
go out clubbing?" *with a smirk smile* ..........</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">That what ring
is for? So public will know that you are married and you can't cheat.
If you have no ring you can flirt and sleep with anyone you like? Sad
and poor judgment my friend. Ring or no ring if a woman decides to
cheat on her man it can happen anywhere anytime. A wedding band is not
guaranteed that you won't cheat on your partner. A ring is a symbol of
commitment yes, but not a symbol of fidelity. My husband never wears
his ring because of the safety of his work, does it mean he can sleep
with other woman? Does it mean he can cheat on me? If the measurement of
marriage only based on this subject, I think it's pretty lame.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Marriage
is a lifetime commitment, that you promise to respect and love each
other until death apart both of you. It doesn't mean that you can't do
what you want without your better-half tagging along behind you, or you
can't go out having fun with your girlfriends anymore because you are a
married woman. Your faithfulness should not be define whether you have
diamond ring wrap on your finger or not. Infidelity often comes from
fear, fear of insecurities about attractiveness, a need for approval or a
problem in a relationship. Not because there's no ring on your fourth
finger!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm married and I left my ring near the kitchen sink ( as I
have to cook dinner before I go out ) and forgot to put it on. At the
moment I am enjoying nice dinner and drink with my girlfriends. When
I'm done having a bit of fun I will come home to my lovely kids and
sleep next to my snoring husband.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/babyimages.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/babyimages.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/babyimages.jpg" height="275" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/babyimages.jpg" title="babyimages" width="183" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">xoxo</span></span>ohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3950846399712754227.post-32959937732915520172012-10-01T21:28:00.000+08:002013-05-11T21:30:22.181+08:00is thank you a hard limit?<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/bigstock_thank_you_card_many_languages_7796681.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/bigstock_thank_you_card_many_languages_7796681.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1075" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/bigstock_thank_you_card_many_languages_7796681.jpg?w=300" height="240" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/bigstock_thank_you_card_many_languages_7796681.jpg?w=300" title="bigstock_Thank_you_card_many_languages_7796681" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><em>Thank you. Danke. Merci. Terima Kasih. Gracias. Etc</em>.
All have the same meaning. But sadly, nowadays I seldom hear that
word being said especially in the customer service department.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In
my recent trip to my local IGA (supermarket) the young man or precisely
the teenager male who stands behind the register just stared blankly at
me after handing my groceries bag. No smile, no <em>have a good day</em>
let alone thank you! I said thank you to him and he just looked at me
saying nothing not even a crack of smile on his face. Oh hello??!!
What's wrong with you young man? Having a toothache?!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It is not my
first time to experience this. Trying to be a good local and support my
community I always try to shop at my nearby supermarket, it's close to
home and walking distance too. But the service is a little
disappointed. While in Woolies or Coles they will help you putting your
groceries in to your bag, here in my beloved IGA I don't get that
service. Even though there are no customers queuing behind me, after
stating how much I spend in total they would just ignore me and let me
putting everything into my bag with no desire to help. They would
either biting their nails or busy talking to their colleague. I don't
expect them to help with my groceries but when you're not busy instead
of biting your nails or sharing gossip to your friend I would think a
gentle gesture of customer service would be appropriate? No?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It's
not only in IGA, McDonald is not even better. My husband and my kids
whenever we feel like junk food we will go to McDonald drive through and
we always make a bet whether the person who serves us will say the
magic word thank you. Three out of ten won't say that magic word.
What's is so wrong with these people? They are dealing and serving
customer, they are the mascot of their company or product. Don't they
get proper training before?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I used to work in retail too so I know
pretty much how to deal and handle customer properly. Greeting
customer and saying thank you are standard policy. It's not hard to say
isn't it or is it?! Often in newspapers or magazines I read reviews
about how bad customer service in Perth. They are rude, unfriendly,
cold, and no manner. I do agree. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">One day, couple friends from school
and I went to our local cafe near the river. We ordered our coffee/tea
and cakes. The waiter came and almost slightly threw our cake into the
table without smiling or say sorry that she almost gave our food to the
seagulls nearby! And again, the waiter was a young girl about 17 or
18 years old. One of my friend whose daughter works in the cafe, told
me that they actually never get trained when they start the job.
Ahhh...no wonder!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">But thank you is a very easy word to say and
learn, even though you don't get proper training you would think it's
common to say thank you to customer. It's sad that young people don't
even know about this. Or maybe they don't learn from home either? </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Remember we always <span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: small;">teach </span></span>our children to say thank you and please? What
goes wrong here? Or perhaps it's the city life syndrome where people
don't care and too self-center? Will our kids generation be like that or
even worse? It worries me....</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-mce-href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/thank-you.jpg" href="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/thank-you.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1076" data-mce-src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/thank-you.jpg?w=300" height="199" src="http://homeetcbyria.files.wordpress.com/2012/10/thank-you.jpg?w=300" title="Thank you!" width="300" /></a></div>
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XOXOohdearriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12873438021582919403noreply@blogger.com0