Your ideal body weight

Jessie jots...

I just realized the real problem to my weight that is quite stagnant. Because I'm already almost to my ideal weight... no wonder it is so hard for me to lose more. You're right Jane, I have more muscle mass in my body and I am born with a larger frame.... So, how do I know that?

Here's how, from Shape Magazine & website:

To measure your frame size, put your right thumb and index finger around your left wrist. If your fingers overlap, select "small"; if your fingers touch, choose "medium"; if your fingers do not touch, choose "large."

To see if you're AT or how FAR you're from your ideal body weight, click here.

Weight Loss with Tim & Steve

Jessie jots...

There is always the first time for everything. This time, our first time doing double date for Valentine's Day. We went to see Tim and Steve in San Diego last weekend. Initially wanted to have Dim Sum for dinner but end up not having it. Still, it was Chinese food.

As usual, we catch up, tell jokes and tease each other... I always had so much fun meeting them every time. They never fail to make me laugh, cos' for one, I love sarcastic jokes and two, they are both so interesting, they have so much to tell. And I love to listen... especially all that history behind them.

Steamboat before Christmas with Tim in black and Steve in Red.

The best part of it all about meeting them is that they never fail to make me feel like a woman. Each time Tim sees me, he'd notice something on me. Once, he saw my wedding pictures of me having my morning make up done, he saw my bare feet and pointed out that they look sexy. I never give my toes much thought in my life, let alone feel sexy for it. He continued to say that not a lot of people has long toes like mine. Ok, he got his point across. I agree with him but still, I couldn't see it on myself. To feel sexy now after my pinky toe got injured and still darken from that accident? Maybe not.

But I do appreciate my toes more now that he said that.

I agreed with San who said it will be motivating to others (or at least only to San) for me to post about my weight loss progression in the blog. Nothing much to shout about other than that I lost three pounds in three weeks... technically, it was suppose to be four weeks but because I can't count the week I was immobile. So, only three weeks.

Speaking of which, both Tim and Steve who has successfully lost 15-20 pounds over the period of three months, believed that I must have lost more than that. The moment I stepped into their cute cabin-like house, they immediately said I look different and I must have lost some weight. I said three pounds, they said, "that's it?"

So embarassing, but I only started less than a month ago. However, it's making such a huge difference on each part of my body.

My pants isn't that snug anymore and my armpit fat no longer get in the way when I wear a sleeveless tops. I no longer feel uncomfortable with my double chin and no longer need to feel that I had to place my arms a certain way so that they don't flat out on my body and look like a flat tire. All that make a difference.

Left Pic: Taken in early Dec.

Right Pic: Valentine's Day

And see what Tim has to say after sending me pictures he took of us with his iPhone:

"I just realized, you didn't have your glasses on tonight...I knew there was something different about you! You looked great tonight, real leather shoes, starfish earrings and ring, wow!"

I only wanted to stress the real leather part, because I just wanted to say how comfortable they really are. LOL And Tim has to say just that to tease me. And see how Tim never ever fail to notice all the little things I do to make myself a wee bit prettier. Anyway, he mentioned all for the obvious reasons that I look different. I think that's because they haven't seen me with make up on, that's all. So I replied:

"Of course, other than the real leather shoe, I also failed to mention that I had a cake of foundation, some eyeshadow and mascara plus wax on my hair... "

Amazing how a girl can change so much with just a few touch of make up, per Jane's and Az's episode of Iggy Queen. So boys, don't be deceived!

I also forgot to mention that Steve was an ex-colleague of Hushby back in Minnesota. They both moved down here, probably two months prior of us. And since then, we've been making sure that we meet every time we get a chance. At the same time, it's so comforting for me to see them, having shared the same history, the people of the same network and the difficulty living in winter wonderland. It's really nice to have that sort of commonality and that foundation to feel secure and confident when you're alienated in a new place.

As we were discussing about weight loss and how motivating it is, Tim said I've got to look at his Californian driver's license. That's the best indication of what we used to be... because four of us who sat down at that table shared the same thing.

So we looked into his license, and then Steve's and I think everyone shook their head in disbelieve JUST how overweight we once were. I pulled out mine and realized, I do look kind of different too. A large part of it is the hairstyle and then, the face. In a comforting way, that I wasn't the only one who were having difficulty to stay fit back then.

I swear that wasn't Photoshop!

Looking at the comparison myself, I can't believe how much my look has changed. I feel better though, even my face shows and my skin is glowing, reflecting every light that comes my way! Though I have to apologize. Sorry to dissapoint you my dear San, I am not daring enough to make pictures of my body go public. The pictures are horrendous... and it might make you blind. I promised though that I did lose the three pounds and both Tim and Steve have inspired me to lose more.

Pipi's Post Surgery

Jessie jots...

It's already Pipi's 5th day after surgery... she was doing well, started playing, eating a lot and all... until this morning (Monday) we found that her incision was swelling and it was oozing out clear discharge and some blood.

These pictures were taken on the second day after surgery. She wasn't as active as you might think looking from these pictures. Her body wasn't cooperating that a lot of time when she wanted to reach out for her toys, she would just slump over or lay down and go to sleep.

The shaved part of her leg for the IV drops.

The shaved part and her almost 2 inch incision wound that can hardly be seen here.

Concerned, I called the doctor and she told me to bring Pipi in immediately. I did just that the minute I hung up the phone. The doctor saw her and instantly she knew that the discharge was due to the body way's of attacking something foreign. She may reopen the wound and wash the pus out if any. Because of that, Pipi would have to stay over until later today for us to pick her up.

sigh! poor thing :(

Again she is gone for the day... and it's so weird not having her around. I really hope the vet can help Pipi feel better soon.

Pipi Is Not Home Today

Jessie jots...

What a strange feeling that she's not home today. The sound of the bell, the greeting by the door, the crickety of the plastic bag... none of that. ARGhhh... and I feel horrible. I woke up early this morning, get dress and get ready for my poor little innocent kitty to see the doctor. I know if we don't do it soon enough, she will be rolling on the floor, meowing and crying all day and night until we all go nuts.

Since last week, we haven't been getting enough sleep. Pipi has been up in the middle of night, usually at about 3-4am, meowing at our bedroom door as if asking for help. The first few time she did that, we thought she needed food or needed to go potty. But soon after, we learned she was only doing that for nothing. She always had her favorite toy with her though, the green shuttlecock thing we gave her for Christmas. I got so angry at her that she wouldn't leave us alone (which she normally would) and kept meowing until we show up... which was really weird.

A few days later, the meows were longer and louder. We tried spray bottle, it didn't work. We used orange spray on the carpet, didn't work either. We ignore her, but we lose our sleep. And worse still, Hushby has to go to work early these few days for a big event. We both have been cranky and clueless.

Well not really clueless, I know what is Pipi up to. It is either she feels lonely or she is in heat. We went to see a doctor immediately on Monday and see what the vet has to say.

Part me of knew she wasn't in heat. Can't believe our little kitten has become an adult now. Well she is going to be... 5 months later. Technically, she's still a kitten? I'm in a huge denial phase if no one sense that. I've seen how a cat behave when she asking to mate, but Pipi didn't do anything like that. I know, of course the vet knew her stuff. Pipi is already 7 months old and suppose to get into heat anytime now.

Yesterday, the doctor confirmed she is not actually in heat but may be preparing to be. It is a relief to know that and also a relief to know she is better off without it for her to bleed less during the surgery. So, after the physical exam too, we quickly went ahead and make an appointment for her to get spayed the very next day... before we all get even more cranky.

So yes, I just sent my cat off for her surgery this morning... and I feel horrible. It's so not what nature intended to be... isn't this all because it is convenient for human? But if we don't do it, I can't take care of all her kittens. Where will they all go? Ah scary thoughts.

I wish I could stay and watch but the vet will be taking their time to do it and I don't want to look like a big pest waiting outside.

Wish us luck and most importantly, wish miss Pipi luck. I know she will be OK, she is a tough girl. I just feel bad, really bad for....

1. She hadn't had food since 8pm last night.
2. When I got up this morning, she looked hungry but she didn't make a single meow because I wouldn't let her.
3. When I said "Let's go"... Pipi walked into her carrier by herself!! :(
4. She had no idea I'm sending her off to get her surgery... that poor innocent thing! ARGH
5. Pipi clung to me when she was in the clinic! :( :( :(

I'm going to go vacuum now...

Look at that face... ugh

"Oh no, Mommy sent me off to the doc"

Well, I'll pick her up this evening and we'll see how she's doing.

Look Ma, I'm Afro now

Jessie jots...

Well I just learned that Steve has a not so secretive obsession with Afro wig and had fantasize about walking around the neighborhood wearing it. But now instead of him wearing it and walk outside, he made everyone wear that Afro wig and take pictures of them and probably going to start some kind of picture board. Everyone from his mother, Tim's cousin sister, Tim's mother, their dog Milly... and of course none other than my Mister Hushby and moi are probably going to end up on that Hall of Fame for Afro Wig board.

"Look Ma! I got Afro hair."

"Me is Macy Gray"

I think Hushby rock the Afro look really, really well, surprisingly. He kinda lost his Chinese look and went into a different race altogether, don't you think? haha

Come Sing Along

Jessie jots...

Another cheesy fun...

XOXO

Jessie jots...

To my Cutie Patootie,

To my Relationship's Spine,

To the Husband of mine,

Who is the love of my life.

Allow me to be poetic,

On this special day.

Let us look into our life,

And appreciate with contented sighs.

Let us reflect the past that we've shared,

To talk about our future and how we will fare.

Maybe a dream home?

Maybe a vacation?

Maybe the pitter-patter of little feet?

Which without a doubt,

I know we will take pleasure in.

On this special day,

Allow me to be appreciative.

To thank you for all that you have done,

And for all that you have endured.

You never tire yourself to 'work' for me,

You have never complain your muscle aches,

Nor have you ever yell for the bites and pinches I made,

Because I know you secretly enjoy me as your soulmate.

On this very day,

I can't thank you enough for that matter,

After seven long years by each other,

Not only were you looking forward to see me everyday after work,

You also never fail to hug me with lots of love.

You haven't fail to kiss me every morning before work,

With the softest touch you would stroke my hair,

With the lightest step you'd get out of bed,

Only because you just want me to take in more nap.

You haven't fail to hold me close,

And walk with your head up high,
Even when many thought you made the wrong decision

When you made me your wife.
Even when I was fat,

When I dress sloppily,

When my hair grew out,

And when I look miserable,

Nor were you ever afraid to stand by me.

Even after all the womanly tantrums that I've thrown,

For all the PMS that you've understandingly withstood,

For all the horrible dinners that I've messed up,

And for all the shopping hours you patiently waited,

You only continue to love.

For letting me be the proudest girl to say,

He is my Cutie Patootie,

With a picture of himself and a daisy on his head,

Is something a lot of guys would shy away.
But you let me do it,

In my blog,

Because you only wanted me to be happy,

To do it my way.

To my Cutie Patootie,

I can never thank you enough,

To share a life that is ever so interesting

with me,

To have faith in me,

To believe in me,

And continuously loving me.

And for that,

I can never thank you enough,

For the dreams that keep coming true,

For the love that only blooms,

When you unselfishly share,

and unconditionally care,

Every day,

Every week,

Every year.

I hope that I have done the same,

In all that I do,

Because you know,

I only meant to care,

And because you know,

I love you too.

Jeans pouch

Jessie jots...

Well... remember I said when I was sedentary? I was going close to losing my mind until I found out that I could do something just as productive while sitting on my butt. Some people might call sewing as a job that is matronly. I used to be guilty of that too, but now I couldn't care less. I just want to make something and be proud of being able to recycle non-usable items.

Before I begin, please don't think of me as a super skilled tailor/sewer/stitcher whatever you wanna call it... I can't sew to save my life. Definitely not a Martha Stewart fan either! So imagine how bored I must have been to even think I could do something out of a small hotel sewing kit. I surprised myself I could even poke the thread through the needle hole. Luckily my vision is still not that bad, although the optometrist had claimed I was beginning to lose my near sightedness... am aging!

Back to the story... what happen was, Hushby has this pair of really nice quality jeans he got from TopShop when he was young-er. Now that he is old-er, he totally has no liking for the cutting of the jeans now. He wanted to donate it but I picked it up and found that the big crotch area is very much to my liking. Yes, I'm still in the mood for a pair of boyfriend jeans. However, it was at least 6 inches longer, so I cropped them away leaving what's below.

At first, I wanted to throw away those part that were cut and then I realized, I could make them into pouches to store stuff like my hair accessories like hair bands, hair clips and such, which I just found them in hidden compartment in a luggage moments before. So I thought, why not make the cut part into pouches? It would be perfect to store all that clutters away.

With limited threads, I went on to start sewing the cut part of the jeans, leaving the hemmed part open.

Man, my Kemahiran Hidup teacher would be so proud to see this! LOL

Flipped it over and I cut a hole in the middle for the button to go through. I hemmed the hole area to 'seal in' the loose threads, with the same stitching method.

Lastly, stitch the button on and voila, it's all done.
Took me three hours though! LOL



Obviously, not proud of the time I had to take to make this small little thing... But hey, now I got something to house all my little hair accessories of mine now! Yey.

Immobile again

Jessie jots...

Ah the day I've finally surrender to an overworked body of mine. Not happy certainly but what can I do? It was the time of the month (Malaysian called it "auntie visit") and it's going like Niagara Falls.

Who said it's fun to be a girl??

This time, the excuse is no longer about a broken toenail or whatsoever, but I am back to immobility mode again. The day went by so slow when it happens. I can't do much or walk much due to the inconvenience of what might fall and stain on wherever I land... AND due to the inconvenience of having to wash an extra pair of pants! My first night alone, I changed four pair of PJ pants. Imagine the quality of sleep I get? Not to mention the cramps!

And who said it's fun to be a girl, again? :P

I'm dissapointed I can't continue to be on the path to fitness... just because my body fails to balance the imbalance hormone of mine. However, after all that the body had withstand, I think it is just asking the me to slow down. I get it... I get it...

but I really wanted to do more!

Told you I was going to pack that 1 pound back on. Sheesh

I get the message, slow down and rest. This is the only time I appreciate not having a job... or else imagine the embarassment getting upper management to understand that I have problems down under! But the reason I'm not embarass talking about it in the blog because I think most of you know me, and I'm pretty well known for having very heavy, heavy Niagara Falls. And the reason I wanted to say out loud too is because I hope I can get similar cases to talk/comment, just share the frustration. The more we talk about it, the more it will come to awareness. I've yet to find a solution and I've got this problem like what... since 11. I've tried Western, Chinese, Yoga, meditation... you name it. Nothing works!

Today is the 5th day and I can see 'Niagara Falls' is slowly drying up. I can't wait until Auntie is done with her visit so that I can continue to do what I do best... hamster activities!

25 things about me

Jessie jots...

As post in Facebook

Rules: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you!

1. I can never sleep without Bluey. He is a little Malaysian Airlines pillow from the plane that I stole and has been my companion since 9.

2. I have never had chicken pox or measles and probably will never ever get them. When I was baby, I was given a shot to prevent that.

3. Originally born and raised in Penang, I moved to Terengganu, Subang Jaya, Kuching, Taiping, and back to Penang. After Penang, I went to Minnesota in the States and then moved to California.

4. The day my furniture arrived in California, we experienced an earthquake, a magnitude of 5.4 on Richter scale.

5. I thought I died on my first open scuba dive in a lake in Minnesota. Long story short, I fell 20 ft below water level because my instructor gave me weights that were too heavy that I lost control of my buoyancy. I descended too quickly and fell onto some very dark silt at the bottom of the lake. Immediately after, the water clarity turned pitch black and I was completely disorientated. I panicked until I couldn't breathe. After what seems like forever trying to inhale, I felt a pull at the back and the next thing I know, I saw light. I thought I died!

6. I have strong intuition of who, what, where and dreams of passed on loved ones.

7. My dream place to visit next is Morocco. I love, love, love their exotic culture and their tradition.

8. Give me spiders, scorpions, worms or any creepy crawlies, .... but no CICAK (gecko)! They scare me and disgust me to death.

9. I met my husband online when I was 15 but our mutual friends are friends I actually know when I was living in Taiping. I knew his childhood bestie but I didn't know him.

10. Believe it or not, I have childhood memories as far back as 2 years old.

11. I told Dad I wanted to go to the States at the age of 5... and I wanted to go to Disneyland. And probably see Michael Jackson. But I think the last one is probably not happening.

12. People say I'm a good cook.

13. When I was living in Subang Jaya, Michelle Yeoh used to leave her luggage in my uncle's house. She is a childhood friend of my aunt. Unfortunately everytime she came, I was in school. I also went to her house in Ipoh once and ironically, I still have not met her.

14. My next door neighbor in Subang was the nation's cartoonist, Lat. If you are familiar with Lat's comic books, you will know that there is a scene with two girls playing badminton over the fence between the houses. The girl on the left was me.

15. From time to time, I have cravings for Mashed Potato more than I have for chocolate.

16. My maternal grandfather was the Peranakan descendent (also known as the mix marriage between the Chinese and Malay) and my maternal grandmother was descended from Thai. My paternal grandparents were Chinese.

17. I'm on the phone with my parents at least once a week for an average of 2 hours each call time.

18. Hubby's sister called me "Ah Sou" (Elder sister-in-law) when her brother and I were only friends... 12 years ago.

19. I used to have a big crush on Aaron Kwok. He was my everything! I owned his video, his posters, t-shirts and cassette. I even memorized every of his dance moves and memorized every word of his songs... but never really knew what it meant.

20. My cat has sneezed on my face... twice!

21. I am easily amused and excited with weddings, old friends, pictures of babies or somebody's pet. Yes I am annoying like that.

22. I arrived 45 minutes late for my 3rd and final round interview at Target Corporation. I got hired a week later.

23. My guilty pleasure is to watch The Real Housewives of Orange County in Bravo every Tuesday night since 3 years ago. Little did I know I was going to move there.

24. I always knock my feet into something. Eventhough I know well enough how the furnitures are situated and what the layout is, I still get bruises.

25. I enjoy playing snooker, not so much for pool. But I emerged as the champion for 2002 Intercollegiate Pool Tournament for female category and in the States, champion for the Inter-dormitory Pool Tournament. I was only lucky on the latter because my last opponent, who came in with his own shiny gold cue, pocketed the white ball on his own. It was a foul, so I became the winner.