Sleeping well and Shopping

Since the arrival of Jordan’s bed last Thursday, I have been sleeping well. I don’t have to worry about his kicks or his sudden jump on me. He sleeps well on his own bed. Thank God! He did try to cross over a few times and succeeded once. On one night, he even invited me to his bed to sleep. Lately, there is no more such tactics. He really loves his new bed.

I think I walked too much last weekend. I was at work for a meeting last Saturday. Then, in the afternoon, Jordan and I had our haircut at Ikano. I managed to buy my favorite biscuit from Cold Storage – Arnotts Shapes Chicken Crimpy.

Arnott's Shapes are a popular line of savoury biscuits produced by Arnott's in Australia. First produced in Victoria in the 1950s, they were originally made in the shape of potato chips, until bakers realised they were too difficult to cut and were a waste of dough. In 1974, they switched to the flat biscuits, which are sold today. The reason for the name "Shapes" is because of the varied shapes that the biscuits come in, depending on the flavour. Arnott's boast that Shapes are "baked, not fried," which is a less fatty method of cooking. Over 44 million packets of Shapes are consumed each year in Australia. (Source: Wikipedia).

Oooo…I love the Chicken Crimpy so much. Once the box is opened, I can finish it at one sitting. I missed the biscuits so much when I came back from Australia. I bought it once in Jusco – only once. After that, I couldn’t find it anymore. Now, they are selling only the Barbeque/Pizza flavour. I rediscovered the biscuit at Selvi’s home last week, and Roy told me that it is available only at Cold Storage. Finally, I could buy it last Saturday. I bought 5 packets. It’s not cheap – RM7.95 per packet! Jordan also loves the biscuit. I have to hide the biscuits from him. It’s too salty for him.

On Sunday, we joined my sister-in-law Huey Pin (Seng Chor’s sister), her husband, Danny and their son Jeffrey for lunch at Ikea. I enjoyed the Swedish meatballs very much. I love the cranberries sauce. Hope to eat it again. Jordan slept during lunch for about one hour. Seng Chor and I had a peaceful meal.

After that, we walked around Ikea. We accompanied Huey Pin and Danny as they shopped.

At night, we had dinner at Nando’s, Atria. It was an enjoyable meal for all of us. Jordan loves the chicken that I was having – Lemon and Herb. It’s been a long time since we had Nando’s.

After dinner, Seng Chor and I watched the F1 Racing at Monaco. I’m happy that Lewis Hamilton won.

It was a tiring but fun weekend for the Teohs.

Manchester United – Double Winner

The two men (Seng Chor and Alex) in the house are fans of Manchester United. Automatically, I have also became the fan of Manchester United. I have even planned to watch their match when they were supposed to come to Malaysia last year. Unfortunately, it was cancelled because it clashed with another football match. I missed their first tour. Hope to watch them live next time.

This morning, at about 2:30 am, I woke up and I couldn’t sleep. I tossed and turned on the bed for about half an hour. Then, I decided to join my brother downstairs to watch the Champions League Final – Manchester United versus Chelsea held at Moscow. I missed Ronaldo’s goal which he scored in the first 30 minutes. They had a few near misses after that. How sad! Just before the end of the half time, Lampard from Chelsea scored. Aiya!

I slept during the second half. When I woke up, the score was still 1-1. The match went into extra time – it was still 1-1 after that. Next, we had the exciting moment – Penalty Shootout. I decided to wake Seng Chor up to watch. Before Ronaldo shoot, Seng Chor commented that this guy had missed a few penalties during the season. Perhaps hinting that Ronaldo should not be part of the penalty shootout. Well, Seng Chor’s ‘prediction’ came true. It was saved by the goalkeeper. Haiya! The tension was building up. I kept on praying –“Please God, let Manchester United win.” And then a ‘miracle’ happened - John Terry from Chelsea missed the goal! He managed to trick Van der Saar but he missed it! Hahaha! The excitement is rising. Alex was lying down, but then he sat up. When it was Ryan Giggs’ turn to kick, both Seng Chor and Alex were not really confident. But then, he scored! Chelsea’s turn next, and Van der Saar dived and he managed to save the goal! Woohoo! Manchester United won the Champions League through penalty shootout: 6 – 5!

Last week, Manchester United won the Premier League. I didn’t watch the whole game. But I did ask Jordan to pray together. Hehehe!

We stayed on to watch the trophy presentation. What a joy! Ryan Giggs is truly a veteran. Somehow, I felt proud and happy for him that he was there to lift up the trophy. According to Seng Chor, he has won so many other cups in the past. It must be the sweetest win for him this season – a double for Manchester United. Hip! Hip! Hooray!

How do you feel today?

I get this question a lot these days. I have a standard answer for it:

• Sleepy
• Tired
• Hungry
• Feel sick most of the time
• No vomiting

I was feeling dizzy last week but not anymore.

Before our Redang trip, Seng Chor and I did blood test and urine test from home. This lady, an agent (I think) for Pantai Medical Centre came over to our house to administer the test. She has been conducting the tests at Seng Chor’s company, and Seng Chor asked her to come to our house, so that we could do the tests together. The price is reasonable – RM179 for about 70 tests. She also provides jabs for Hepatitis A and B at a very affordable price as well – cheaper than normal General Practitioner (GP) clinic.

My results
The tests include

• Haematology


• Clinical Chemistry (Cholesterol)


• Renal Function Test (Sodium, Potassium, Chloride, Urea, Creatinine, Calcium, Phosphate, Uric Acid)


• Diabetic Screen


• Liver Function Test


• Endocrine – Hormones


• Immunology & Serology (Hepatitis A and B)


• Microbiology


• Blood Bank

My blood group is A Rh (D) Positive – same as my Mum. Jordan has the same blood type as mine.

Comment on my Peripheral Blood Film:
Red cells show slight anisocytosis with a normocytic normochromic picture.
White cell count appears normal with well differentiated and matured cells.
Platelets are adequate.

Overall peripheral blood film morphology appears normal.

The first comment about the red cells basically means that I have low blood pressure. It's not surprising. The lady suggested that I boil red dates regularly to drink. This will help improve my blood pressure. However, when my gynecologist checked my pressure last week, it was fine. All the results are within the normal reference range. Praise the Lord!

It’s recommended that I take the Hepatitis A immunization after my pregnancy. Otherwise, it may affect breastfeeding.

Initially, I thought that I may have cholesterol problem because the sample blood she took from me contained some white floating stuff – but it was good cholesterol. Phew!

She had to jab me twice to draw blood from me. She tried my right arm. I think I was holding on too tight and was quite tensed that the blood couldn’t flow out. So, she tried with my left arm instead. I was more relaxed. It flowed much faster than Seng Chor’s. Poor Seng Chor. It was rather painful for him and the injected area was blue-black for almost a week.

Seng Chor’s results are also within the normal reference range but few on the higher end. So, he needs to watch out his diet – cut down seafood and meat. Take more fruits and vegetables. Otherwise, he may have a cholesterol problem.

It’s advisable to test your blood and urine once a year. Knowing is better than not knowing. Remember that Old Saying, "Prevention is Better than Cure"?

WWW.THE4POINTS.COM

A simple way to share the Good News…

GOD LOVES ME

The four points are an overview or summary of the entire bible and the first thing you need to know is that God is crazy about you! His love is unlimited and completely unconditional. There is nothing you can do to make God love you any more or less than He does right now. There is nothing God wants more than to love and be loved by you.

Bible: Psalm 100:5, 1 John 3:16


I HAVE SINNED

Sadly we have all been separated from God’s love by something the bible calls sin. Simply put sin is choosing to live for ourselves rather than God. We sin when we ignore God, break His laws and basically do things our own way. Sin destroys relationships with friends, with family and with God. The bible says that sin ultimately brings death.

Bible: Isaiah 59:2, Romans 6:23


JESUS DIED FOR ME

The third point is probably one of the most well known facts in the history of mankind but is often misunderstood. The key is to realize that the penalty for sin is death. We’ve all sinned and we all deserve to die. But God, who is full of mercy, loved you so much that He sent Jesus to come and die in your place. Jesus died so that we can have eternal life.

Bible: 1 John 4:9-10, Romans 5:8


I NEED TO DECIDE TO LIVE FOR GOD

God has done everything He can do demonstrate just how important you are to him. It is now up to you to decide what you want to do. God is offering you life in all it’s fullness for all eternity. All you need to do is accept that you’ve sinned, ask for God’s forgiveness and decide to live the rest of your life only for Him. The choice is yours.

Bible: Deuteronomy 30:19, 1 John 1:9

------------------------------------------------------------------

A Prayer You can Say

Dear God, Thank You that You love me and want the best for me in every situation. I’m sorry for ignoring You and doing things my way. I realize now that my sin has hurt You and the people around me and for this I’m truly sorry. Thank you Jesus that You came and took the punishment for my sin. Thank you that You gave your life for me. Please forgive me and help me now as I decide to live only for you. Amen.

General Advice on the Use and Handling of Medicines

Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. In case of overdosage, seek medical attention at once.

If you develop an allergic or unusual reaction to any medicine, contact your doctor at once.

The medicine prescribed for you are specific to treat your present condition. Never give you medicine to anyone else.

To avoid mistakes, do not take medicines in the dark or mix different medicines in one container.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Store medicines away from heat and direct sunlight.

Medicines which are expired or no longer needed should be flushed down the toilet, unless otherwise directed.

The word ‘Poison’ which may appear on your medicine package means a controlled medicine under the Poisons Ordinance 1952.


Damansara Specialist Hospital
A Member of KPJ Healthcare Berhad

Duphaston (Photos)

Duphaston

DUPHASTON(TM)
Tablets
\ dew- FAS- ton\
Dydrogesterone \ DAI - droh - JES - ter- roun\

Before I went to see my gynecologist last Thursday, I was experiencing this tightening sensation in the womb. It felt as if the fetus was tying knots in the womb. The gynecologist said that Duphaston will help to relax the womb. It really helped. I did a search on Google and found out the actual purpose of Duphaston. Thank God that I have minimal side effects.

My prescription:
• 10mg film coated tablets dydrogesterone by Solvay Pharmaceuticals
• 1 tablet, 2 times a day – morning and night
• After meal
• For 2 weeks

From Google Search…

How does it work?

Duphaston tablets contain the active ingredient dydrogesterone, which is a synthetic hormone similar to the naturally occurring sex hormone, progesterone. It is used in a wide range of menstrual disorders that are thought to result from a lack of progesterone in the body.

In women, progesterone is responsible for the development of a healthy womb lining (endometrium) that is necessary for pregnancy. The body produces progesterone at certain times of the menstrual cycle, causing the womb lining to flourish. If a fertilized egg does not attach to the womb lining by the end of the monthly menstrual cycle, the levels of progesterone in the body decrease. This causes the body to shed the womb lining (a menstrual ‘period’). If a fertilized egg successfully attaches to the womb lining by the end of the monthly cycle, progesterone levels in the body remain high. This helps maintain a healthy womb lining for the ongoing pregnancy.

As dydrogesterone helps regulate the healthy growth and normal shedding of the womb lining, it may be used in the treatment of menstrual disorders such as absent, irregular or painful menstrual periods, infertility, premenstrual syndrome and endometriosis. It may also be used to minimise the overgrowth of the womb lining due to oestrogen (the main female sex hormone) in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) following menopause. By maintaining the womb lining, dydrogesterone is also useful in helping prevent miscarriage (spontaneous abortion) in women who have suffered repeated miscarriages or who may miscarry.

Dydrogesterone is usually taken on selected days during the menstrual cycle, depending upon the disorder that is being treated.


What is it used for?

• Abdominal pain and bleeding during preganancy (threatened miscarriage) or history of miscarriages (habitual abortion)


• Abdominal pain associated with menstrual periods (dysmenorrhoea)


• Absence of menstrual periods when taking oestrogens


• Endometriosis


• Female infertility


• Irregular menstrual bleeding when taking oestrogens


• Irregular menstrual cycles


• Premenstrual syndrome

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Bloating
• Skin reactions such as rash and itch
• Breast tenderness
• Menstrual spotting between periods


Extracted from NetDoctor


Product Description (BetterHealth)
What it looks like
Duphaston tablets are round, biconvex, scored, white film-coated tablets, marked "S" on one side, the other side marked "155" on each side of the score line. They are available in blister strips containing 28 tablets.

Ingredients
The tablets contain dydrogesterone 10 mg as the active ingredient, and lactose, hypromellose, maize starch, colloidal anhydrous silica, magnesium stearate and opadry white Y-1-7000 E171.
This medicine does not contain sucrose, gluten, tartrazine or any other azo dyes.

Manufacturer
Duphaston is manufactured in The Netherlands for:

Solvay Pharmaceuticals
A division of Solvay Biosciences Pty. Ltd.
Level 1, Bldg. 2, 20 Bridge St.
Pymble NSW 2073
Telephone:(02) 94400977

Australian Registration Number: AUST R 63262

Tired, Sleepy, Hungry…

Tired, sleepy and hungry…This is how I feel most of the time these days.

The first comment that my gynecologist made when he saw the scan was, “You are definitely pregnant!” I find it amusing. I was really relieved when he said that it looks good. I remember the first check-up before I had my miscarriage in 2003. It didn’t look good. It was disintegrating; the ‘oval’ was not clear. I really thank God for protecting the fetus. I told my gynecologist about my diving experience. He didn’t think that it would have endangered my pregnancy. He even shared that he would love to go diving one day. He can swim. I also told him about my swimming lessons. For now, I need to take it easy on my swimming.

According to my gynecologist, at this stage, for any woman, the risk of miscarriage is 15%. The heartbeat should be detected at the 8th week. By then the risk of miscarriage will be reduced to 5%. After the 1st trimester, which is after 12 weeks, this risk is further reduced to 1%. That’s why it is so important to take precaution during the first 3 months. So, many ‘don’ts’ to observe:

• Don’t carry heavy things


• Don’t climb up and down the stairs too much


• Don’t climb up ladder, chairs, etc


• Don’t spread the news that you are pregnant (superstitious)


• Don't take cold drinks


• Don't eat watermelon/pineapple

I have stopped carrying Jordan. I was still carrying him quite a lot before I went to see my gynecologist. He had also advised me not to carry Jordan. All I do these days is hug and kiss him. Seng Chor does all the running and carrying. Seng Chor also showers him. I still play with him and read to him. Oh, my gynecologist even advised me not to go shopping - can't walk too much for the time being.

After sleeping the whole day, I still feel tired. Maybe it’s because of the medicine that I’m taking. I hope to be strengthened when I go back to work on Tuesday.

God’s timing is always perfect. My classes have ended – less stress, no need to stand for 2 hours. The peak season will not resume until October. Fantastic, right?

First Check up

It’s now 5 weeks. The baby is due on 9 January 2009.

It looks good during the scan. It’s really tiny – after magnifying it, I could see an oval – that’s the little baby.

My next check up is on 29 May 2008 – before I leave for church camp. Maybe can hear the heartbeat by then. Because I had some brown discharge, the gynecologist has given me 2 days of MC to rest – today and tomorrow. I am also being prescribed Duphaston to relax the womb. Since the scan looks good, I should not worry too much.

Thanks to all the prayers.

Mother’s Day ecard from a Mother-to-be

Wishing you a blessed Mother's Day.

When a child is born, so is a mother.
When a child grows, so does a mother.

You have been an inspiration to me as I am about to embark on this new journey of motherhood.

Bless you in the name of Jesus!


The DaySpring e-card…
God has called you and gifted you
To be the wonderful mother you are.

In a special way today
May you sense His nearness
Rejoice in His love for you
And know the joy you bring to others


The joy of the Lord is your strength
Nehemiah 8:10

How was my Mother’s Day 2008?

Morning
We attended Growth Group (GG) meeting at the Wong’s residence. Jordan behaved quite alright. I kept him busy with biscuits, cereals and raisins. He woke up before 7 am that morning partly because my runny nose disturbed him. He requested milk soon after that.

At the GG, Jordan asked me to carry him occasionally. During the bible study, Seng Chor took over to baby sit him. It was an easy task for Seng Chor – Jordan slept until lunch time.

Lunch time
Nine of us had chicken rice at Taman Tun. Seng Chor watched over Jordan throughout the meal. I had an uninterrupted lunch. Jordan was actually quite restless. He ‘snatched’ the rice from Seng Chor and didn’t allow Seng Chor to eat the rice. He protested loudly whenever Seng Chor tried to scoop some rice. As usual, he made a mess. So in the end, Seng Chor ate only chicken for lunch.

After lunch, we followed Aunty Sue and the girls to a shop to buy some stationery.

Afternoon
Seng Chor showered Jordan. I had a good nap until about 4:30 pm.
Then, I took over to baby sit while Seng Chor slept until 6 pm.

Evening till Night – picking stools and cleaning urine
After a successful Saturday morning, we didn’t let Jordan wear pampers again in the evening. Even though we kept reminding Jordan to tell us whenever he wanted to do his ‘business’, he conveniently forgot – too busy playing. He peed on the floor. Next, he passed motion, and the stool fell onto the floor. I didn’t know until he pulled my hand and asked me to see his ‘product’. Seng Chor cleaned up, and the funniest thing was that Seng Chor threw it into the dustbin instead of the toilet. He was so used to throwing pampers into the dustbin that he threw the stool into the dustbin as well. Aiyoh!

Dinner
Because of F1 and the Manchester United football match, Seng Chor ordered take away from the House of Fishball for the whole family. Jordan had porridge. He also drank orange juice and a cup of milo.

Again, we reminded Jordan to use the potty. After dinner, he peed and passed motion onto the floor again! I cleaned up. I didn’t notice the stool until Seng Chor told me that he had also done a ‘big’ one. Thank goodness I didn’t step on it. Seng Chor cleaned him up.

At around 10 pm, Jordan requested for milk. He wanted the milk to be poured into the cup and drink from the cup. So, I asked him to sit on the staircase and drink. Before that, I even asked him whether he needed to pee or not. He said no. As he was drinking, he peed again! Once again, Seng Chor and I cleaned him up. As it was bed time, we let him wear pampers to sleep.

That evening, Jordan changed 4 pants; we picked 2 stools (about the size of my fist) and wiped 3 puddles of urine.

We are thankful that he didn’t wet or dirty the sofa – just the floor. We are also thankful that we have saved at least 3 pampers that day! Hahaha! We will definitely continue to train Jordan again. I really didn’t mind cleaning up after his ‘business’. Just look at the bright side – it is better for Jordan, good training for him and save money. Heeheehee!

Happy Mother’s Day 2008

Nothing touches a child like a mother’s love.
Blessed Mother’s Day to you.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

A mum is a rose whose petals are soft
A mum is a lily whose stem is tall and strong
A mum is a person who is seldom wrong and
A mum is a person you should love forever…
Trust her, believe her and never doubt her
From one mum to another.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

A woman has strengths that amaze men
She can handle trouble and carry heavy burdens
She holds happiness, love, and opinions
She smiles when she feels like screaming
She sings when she feels like crying
Cries when she’s happy and
Laughs when she’s afraid
Her love is unconditional!
There’s only one thing wrong with her
She sometimes forgets what she is worth.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

It would take a thousand workers to build a castle
A million soldiers to protect a country
But only ONE WOMAN to build a happy home.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

A Blessed Happy Mother’s Day
Remember a woman has strength that surprise men
She handles problems and carries heavy burdens quietly
Her LOVE is unconditional
She often forgets what she is worth
May Love, Joy and Peace be with you
God bless.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Good mothers are like stars
You don’t always see them but you know they are always there
Shining for you
Bringing LOVE, CARE, JOY, AFFECTION, COMPASSION
Blessed Mother’s Day!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Life is like a novel
Many chapters read and forgotten
But there is only one you will not forget
It is the chapter when you become a MOTHER!
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

A mom is God’s love in action
She looks with her heart and feels with her eyes
A mom is the bank where her children deposit all their worries and hurt
A mom is the cement that keeps her family together and
Her love lasts a lifetime
Blessed Mother’s Day.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Happy Mummies’ Day!
May God bless you richly with joy and happiness!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Blessed mother’s day my beautiful friend.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Hi mother, HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! :-)*

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Hey! Happy Mother’s Day to you! :)

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you for all the sms greetings.
I had a blessed Mother’s Day!
Praise the Lord!

Diving with My Second Baby

[Tested on 7 May 2008]

Praise the Lord! The result is positive. I suspected something before the Redang trip but when I tested, it was negative. So, I happily swam, snorkeled and dived. I believed that God wanted me to enjoy myself in Redang. I felt so blessed and loved by God.

Now, I have more reasons to blog – to share this special blessing to friends and family. Thanks to all the prayers. God has indeed granted me the desires of my heart.

Blessed be the Name of the Lord!

My Mother’s Day Fantasies

I got tagged by Florence to share my Mother’s Day fantasies. It’s very simple…a small gift (even a little card is enough) from my precious son, Jordan, accompanied by a kiss and “Happy Mother’s Day” wish. Well, hubby would have to buy the gift on behalf of him. Hehehe!

Ok, there’s more…I also hoped that my hubby would remember that day and wish me “Happy Mother’s Day”, and that he would show his appreciation by babysitting Jordan the whole day. Then, I can take a good rest.

Last but not least, I wish that Jordan would behave extremely well on that day, and the day after and forever. He would do whatever we tell him to do – eat, sleep and play on his own. Hahaha!

Divers at Redang

Dive Sites at Redang


An interesting quote at the dive center


Happy Diver


No porter service :(


Oxygen Tanks for the second dive

-------------------------------------------------

Gear Up

-------------------------------------------------

Back from Diving


Certified Rescue Divers

Updating Diver Log Book

Completing form for Rescue Diver Certification


The Divers
Back - Seng Chor and Che Leong
Front - Patrick and Florence

Unforgettable Redang May 2008 (Part 4)

5 May 2008 (Saturday Night)

On the last night, none of us took rice because we decided to eat in Laguna Beach Resort. We just ate the dishes. After that, the divers filled their diving log book, and were certified Rescue Diver by Che Leong, the Dive Instructor. Congratulations to three of them – Seng Chor, Patrick and Florence.

Next, we walked to the dive centre at Laguna Beach Resort for dinner cum supper. I ordered a plain soup noodle and Root Beer. The noodle was not appetizing at all.

After the heavy meal, we strolled along the beach heading back towards Redang Bay. I watched one episode of C.I.B Files before I sleep.

4 May 2008 (Sunday)

We woke up at 6:30 am. For breakfast, I had nasi lemak, one toast with butter and jam, one bowl of porridge and a cup of Milo. It was time to pack and leave.

The ferry we took left Redang Bay at around 8:30 am. It was packed with 63 people! This time we managed to sit at the open deck because we were the second group of passengers to enter the ferry. I didn’t sleep at all. I was too excited thinking about my fun dive and enjoying the sea breeze. I also took pictures of the surrounding.

We arrived at the Merang Jetty at around 9:30 am. Patrick drove all the way from Kuala Terengganu back to Petaling Jaya. We had an early lunch. The stall seems to be packed with people, so we decided to try the food. We noticed the stall already when we were on the way to the jetty. The nasi kerabu and the fried chicken wing were delicious. I ordered roti telur but tried a bit of the nasi kerabu from Seng Chor. We hopped back into the MPV before 11 am. Along the way, we also stopped over to buy keropok and fish satay.

Late lunch was at Genting Sempah, around 3 pm, which is one hour ahead of schedule because we took a shortcut recommended by Che Leong. We waited for more than half an hour for the lunch to be prepared. The cook must be sleeping! When it finally arrived, we were not disappointed. We ordered a big fish, 3 types of vegetables and black pepper pork (yummy).

The main reason why we stopped at Genting Sempah is to buy the Pisang Susu – purple coloured banana. It takes one week for it to ripe so I haven’t got the chance to try it yet. Patrick and Florence bought some vegetables home, and Che Leong bought 2 bottles of natural honey.


Pisang Susu

We arrived home at around 5:10 pm. I managed to unpack and wash all the clothes on the same day. Phew!

Praise the Lord!

Scenes from Redang

Unforgettable Redang May 2008 (Part 3)

3 May 2008 (Saturday)

For breakfast, I ate noodle instead of nasi lemak. I also took porridge and a piece of toast with butter and jam.

I had a relaxing stroll along the beach. This time I went to the left side of Redang Bay Resort. There are also 4 resorts along this side but one of them is unoccupied. The construction seems completed but heard that the owner wants to sell it.

After the stroll, it was time to send the divers off. Then, I went back to the chalet – prayed for 40 minutes and watched C. I. B. Files episodes until lunch time.

The divers arrived back very late – about 2 pm. I couldn’t wait for them, so I ate lunch on my own. Only Seng Chor and Florence joined me but they didn’t take rice. Florence ate only fish. Seng Chor ate more. Because the food is cold already, they ordered something else from the shops outside.

Bad news - My life jacket from the resort was stolen from the Dive Centre. I left it in the basket together with the rest of their diving stuffs. On the first day, I took it to the chalet but I decided to leave it in the Dive Centre the next day. It was a bad decision indeed. I prayed that somehow the person would return it so that I would not be fined.

As usual, after lunch it was C. I. B. Files marathon until tea time. I had 2 cakes, 2 small buns, red bean soup and a cup of tea. It’s too bad that the divers missed their afternoon tea again. My fun dive was scheduled at 5:30 pm after their final rescue dive practical. Woohoo!

The swimming pool was not occupied. I practiced for about half an hour. My hands and legs coordination improved. I could manage for 4 swings – right, left, right and left. Previously, it was only 2 or 3. I was really happy with my achievements. I didn’t use the snorkeling gear. When people started to arrive at the pool, I headed for the sea. No life jacket, so I was really careful that I don’t go to deep. Yesterday, I went too deep and I nearly panicked. Only my toes could touch the bottom. I moved slowly to the shallow end. Phew!

It was 5:30 pm but still no sign of the divers. I waited and waited. When they eventually arrived, they had to complete the rescue diver practical sessions first. So, I waited and waited again. It was about 6:45 pm.


The Highlight
Finally, I heard the call, “Christine.” I went over to the dive site. I borrowed most of the diving equipment from Florence:

• BCD (Buoyancy Control Device) with Oxygen tank


• Regulator


• Boots


• Fins

I borrowed the mask and weight belt from Seng Chor. I couldn’t really sink without the weight belt. Three of them had to help me put on the diving gear. Florence helped me with the BCD and the boots. The guys assisted me in putting on the fins and weight belt. I felt like a queen. Hehehe! Next, Che Leong taught me some skills:

a) Regulator Recovery
It is essential that I know how to recover the regulator if it accidentally fell off from my mouth.
The steps:

1. Take the regulator out from my mouth


2. Blow some bubbles


3. Place the regulator back to my mouth and blow again (just in case got water)

After a few trials, I was successful. I showed the ‘ok’ sign with my hands whenever I succeeded in performing the skill.

b) Clearing the Mask
Steps:

1. Fill the mask with water half way from the top.


2. Tilt my head.


3. Drain the mask by breathing out through my nose, from the bottom of the mask through a small gap.

This was tough. I managed to do it well only after 4 or 5 attempts.
As a sign of my success, Che Leong shook my hand.

c) Dealing with ear pressure
This was interesting. When my ears get painful because of the pressure, I need to hold my nose tightly and blow, and ears would go, “Pop”. That will stop the pain.


The Real Thing
I’m ready! Seng Chor was ready with the camera. I dived! At first, I couldn’t see much. It was also getting dark – 7 pm already. There were not many fishes around. I tried to kick as much as I could. After the dive, I found out that Che Leong was holding up my tank most of the time because I was sinking and wasn’t really moving forward. Poor him! It was tiring for him. At one time, I was so scared because there was a dark area, that I held his hand for quite a distance. It happened after I saw a Potato Garoupa. Next, Che Leong pointed to a baby shark. It was a Black Tip. It disappeared behind the coral quite fast. According to the divers, I was extremely blessed to see shark at this depth. Throughout the dive, he kept asking me whether I was ok or not using the hand signal. I ‘popped’ my ears a few times. It was interesting. Seng Chor was busy taking photos of me. I even posed with the ‘ok’ hand signal. Hehehe! We dived one round the corals.

The dive lasted for only about 10 – 15 minutes. It was one of bravest things that I have ever done and I am really proud of myself. If nothing happens, I will go for the PADI Open Water Diver Certification in July. Hopefully, Che Leong will not be scared to be my instructor. Hehehe!

Achievements for the day:
• Swimming with more hand strokes
• Snorkeled without life jacket
• First dive and saw shark

Praise the Lord!

Unforgettable Redang May 2008 (Part 2)

2 May 2008 (Friday)

We woke up around 7:00 am.
Breakfast menu:
Nasi Lemak
Fried Noodle
Chicken porridge
Toast with Butter and Jam
Buns
Hot drinks – Milo, Tea, Coffee

I had Nasi Lemak, a bit of noodles, a bowl of porridge and a cup of tea.

After breakfast, it was time for the divers to gear up. I took pictures of them as they were preparing for the dive. The whole process took about 10 – 15 minutes. It was like making a documentary for the National Geographic. Hehehe!

Once they were onboard, I took a stroll to the Mo Mo Tea Souvenir shop. I snapped a lot of pictures along the way. Around 9 am, I went back to the chalet. What did I do?

Prayed for 40 minutes
Watched the first episode of the C.I.B. Files Hong Kong Drama Series

The divers came back to rest at around 11 am. So, I joined them for a drink before their next dive.

Then, I went back to the chalet and watched a few more episodes. After the agenda, it was then time to greet the divers again and have lunch. They arrived back later than the day before. This was their 5th dive.

After lunch, it was drama series marathon for me until tea time. I had cakes, barley and tea. The divers missed the afternoon tea.

I swam for awhile in the pool but I didn’t really swing my hands. Next, I proceeded to the sea for snorkeling. I swam a bit. The experience was not as overwhelming as yesterday – second time already. Seng Chor and the rest were also doing the Rescue Diver course after their 6th dive that day.

I had a good shower before the BBQ dinner – fried rice, noodle, potato, fish, lamb, beef, fried chicken and watermelon. Then, four of us (excluding Che Leong) walked all the way to the Mo Mo Tea Souvenir Shop. We bought 3 T-shirts – one for Seng Chor, one for me and of course, another for Jordan. Seng Chor used his camera to take the night scenes. We took a longer time to walk back as we visited the various resorts along the way. We also checked out the room rates and diving packages. There are all reasonable. One of them (Redang Beach Resort) is even cheaper than Redang Bay Resort with better room condition. Laguna Beach Resort is more expensive but still considered reasonable for family trip with children – about RM 250 more than Redang Bay Resort but the environment is much more appetizing.

Before I bed, I watched one episode of the C.I.B. Files. I was looking forward to my fun dive tomorrow.

Mo Mo Tea Inn

----------------------------------------------------------

Laguna Beach Resort – Night and Day

Redang - 1 May 2008 (Photos)

The Ferry at Marang Jetty




Approaching Redang Island

REDANG BAY RESORT

Free Flow of Drinks - Hot and Cold


The Painting in the Chalet


--------------------------------------------------

OUR MEALS

Scenes from Kuala Terengganu

Seri Malaysia Hotels is the largest mid-range hotel chain in Malaysia. It represents part of the Government's effort to improve the growth of the local tourism industry together with the Ministry of Tourism.

Seri Malaysia at Kuala Terengganu:
Accomodation: 150 Rooms
Function Room: Dewan Muara 1/2 . Binjai
Attraction: Island Hopping . Shopping . Fishing
Website:Seri Malaysia


China Town

Big Orange


Controversial Mosque Museum

(The photos didn't turn out well because I was taking them from the car as we travelled.)

Unforgettable Redang May 2008 (Part 1)

First Day – traveling
It was Wednesday, 30 April 2008. Seng Chor and I left the house at around 5:30 pm. Patrick and Florence (Patrick’s wife) came to pick us up. Che Leong, the Dive Instructor was already in the MPV. So, there were altogether 5 of us for this trip. Their main mission was to complete the Rescue Diver certification course and be certified as a Rescue Diver. My mission – to watch Hong Kong Drama Series, swim, snorkel, dive (if possible). Of course, the most important thing is to relax and have fun.

Patrick drove for about 1 and half hours. Because he was not feeling well, Seng Chor took over after that. We reached Cherating about 8 pm. We stopped over at Seri Ombak Restaurant for dinner. I ordered Soya Sauce Beef with rice and Horlicks with milk. It was quite tasty though the beef was a bit tough. Seng Chor ordered Paprick Rice. He was actually thinking of Pattaya Rice when he ordered it. So, he was a bit surprised when the dish was served. Overall, it was a satisfactory dinner for everyone except Patrick. He ordered porridge but didn’t have the appetite to finish it. Later, he even vomited.

We arrived Seri Malaysia Hotel, Kuala Terengganu at around midnight. Seng Chor has already booked 2 rooms – one double bed room which I shared with Florence, and a family room for the 3 guys. I was the only one who showered that night. The rest just washed face, brushed teeth and slept. My nose was giving me problems throughout the journey. I was a bit worried that I would disturb Florence during the night. But when I asked her the next morning, she said that I was really quiet – no sound from me at all. Praise the Lord!

Redang Bay Resort
We had buffet breakfast at around 7:30 am, and left for the Merang Jetty at about 8 am, and reached there before 9 am. The ferry was due to leave at 9:30 am. The ferry was really packed. We wanted to sit in the open area but it was fully occupied. So, we all sat at the lower deck.

I slept throughout the ferry ride. It took only about 1 hour to reach Redang Bay Resort. We arrived at around 10:30 am. For all my previous island trips, I stayed only in Berjaya Resorts. It was a huge difference indeed. I was surprised that they even provided free flow of welcome drink – orange cordial. No porter service. The seats in the Reception Area were arranged in multiple rows and 2 columns – like a bus station. The transportation of the luggage from the ferry to the resort was rather interesting. So, I snapped a few photos of it. After everyone has checked in, the lady made some announcements on the house rules. No microphone but she spoke loudly. All I could remember was the meal times. Hahaha! Very important indeed.

Breakfast: 7 – 9 am
Lunch: 12:30 – 1:30 pm
Tea: 4 – 5 pm
Dinner: 7 – 8 pm

Upon arrival, the four of them went to the dive centre to keep their diving stuff. I waited for them at the Reception Area until everything was settled. Then, we went to our respective chalets. The couples stayed in the chalets – next to each other, while the Dive Instructor stayed in the dorm.

The chalet
First impression on the room – “Bare Necessities” – double bed, dressing table with mirror and a cupboard – that’s all. No chair. No tv. No kettle. Perhaps the only thing that is attractive in the room is the painting. Somehow, I have a sense of contentment. At first I thought that no kettle means I couldn’t boil water for drinking. Later, Seng Chor told me that water is free flow at the dining area. Woohoo! No need to boil water at all. I don’t need to wait for the water to cool down before drinking. Just refill anytime from the container. I really love this!

The other thing I like about the room is that there are a lot of hooks for you to hang clothes/towel – one row behind the room door, 2 rows on the side wall, and 2 more in the bathroom. I would say that the resort is catered mainly for snorkels and divers. Yup, they need a lot of hooks to hang all the wet clothes. You can also hang the washing on the line outside the room to dry. It’s really convenient indeed.

Lunch
It was about 11 am. The four of them went out for their first dive trip at the Southern Tip. I slept in the room. At around 12:30, I went to the dive centre to wait for them. They returned almost 1 pm. Lunch was cold already but still tasted fine. The resort operators have allocated the food portion for each group. Each meal consists of soup, fish, chicken, taufu or wan tan and vegetables – 5 dishes altogether. For the first meal, the dessert was apple. I ate quite a lot.

The swimming pool
The pool is just outside our chalets. I only go to the pool after the afternoon tea when there was no one around. On the first day, Seng Chor accompanied me. He asked me to swim the whole length of the pool. I was not really confident. I didn’t realize that the other end is quite deep. I stopped when I saw the depth difference. Then, Seng Chor allowed me to swim along the width of the pool. To practice my legs and hands coordination, Seng Chor suggested that I use the snorkeling gear, so that I don’t have to worry about the breathing part. It was a good suggestion. I managed to improve. Firstly, I tried without moving hands. Then, next he asked me to move my hands. Amazingly, I could swing my hands quite well. I swam a few rounds – to and fro. Next, Seng Chor asked me to tilt my head to the side to breathe as I swing the hand. As he was giving me the instructions, he suddenly lost balance, and fell into the pool with his T-shirt on. It was so funny! So, he had to go back to the chalet to change. While he was away, I didn’t try the breathing part, just continued to swim with the snorkeling gear. When he returned, we adjourned to the dining area for tea. I had banana cake, fried banana fritters and green bean soup.

After tea, they had to gear up for the next dive trip. I snorkeled. It was the first time I snorkeled on my own in the open sea. Che Leong managed to get a life jacket for me, and I used Seng Chor’s snorkeling gear. So, I didn’t have to pay the resort for the equipment. I enjoyed it very much. The fishes were so close to me. I tried to touch them but obviously I couldn’t. It’s just so beautiful. Even though there were only 2 types of fish at the shore, I still enjoyed it. It was wonderful to swim with the fish.

After the diving trips, the divers continued with their Rescue Diver course which was very near to my snorkeling area. I observed them as they ‘rescued’ each other. When it was Florence’s turn, I switched with her husband half way, and became her victim. When it was time for her to drag her husband to the beach, I pretended to be her victim. I was quite tensed at the beginning and it was difficult for her to support me. Eventually, I relaxed and she piggy-backed me to the beach. Then, she pretended to perform the CPR on me. It was fun!

Dinner
We had the same type of food – soup, fish, chicken, vegetables and wantan. Oranges were served as dessert. After dinner, Seng Chor and I walked along the beach. We walked until the Mo Mo Tea souvenir shop – about 10 minutes. The building was actually the location for the movie “Summer Holiday” acted by Sammi Cheng and Richie Ren in 1999. I bought a fridge magnet as a souvenir. Along the beach, there were a few disco parties taking place – mostly Cantonese songs. There was a live English band as well at the Laguna Beach Resort. There are 4 resorts along that side of the beach, and 4 more on the left side of Redang Bay Resort.

That was the first day and first night at Redang Bay Resort.

Highlight of Redang Trip - Fun DIVE

Dr Cabokia had her first dive on Saturday, 3 May 2008 at Redang Island, off Redang Bay Resort. It was around 7 pm, 5 meters deep. It was truly magnificent and an unforgettable experience. More real stories coming soon…