Cheong/McClure/Mackie/SOngs Families News Page

Nando's Ad - For the Mackies

2012-02-15T23:08:00.000-08:00

Hi There!

Some news about Nando's Malaysia ad on the KFC Customer punch up..

I know you all a fans of Nando's too.

Can read more of that episode here that resulted in massive boycott of KFC in Malaysia..

Mother and Father Star Cruise

2012-01-08T00:48:00.001-08:00

a bit late with my postings ... I am sure mother and father would like to share their experience on their latest cruise !!

Merry Christmas 2011 from Scotland

2011-12-27T16:27:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from Annie, Scott, Samantha, Chris, Zac, Mia, Iain, Gillian, Logan & baby Declan. Had the most wonderful day with family eating lots of turkey, roast potatoes and all the trimmings ( we all ate TOO much) God bless & all the best for 2012 when it arrives to you. xx

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2011-12-20T07:14:00.001-08:00

My New Toy/Hobby

2011-12-13T08:43:00.000-08:00

After a week assembly, the PA Bandit was ready to maiden. Lithium Polymer battery powered aerobatic model.

Pic before maiden in case I may never take a pic of it this pristine condition.

2nd flight..hand launch.

Pics of bad landings and crash not shown here..lol Cheers!

Happy 1st Birthday Mia Grace

2011-11-28T05:30:00.000-08:00

We had such a wonderful day with family & friends celebrating Mia's 1st birthday. We love you baby girl can't believe its a whole year already xxx

Bon Voyage BBQ

2011-10-27T05:36:00.000-07:00

Hope you all enjoyed the BBQ gathering. Unfortunately I only have 2 photos, too busy minding the grill. Cheers.

Father's B'day Photos Part 2

2011-10-21T22:12:00.001-07:00

Father's 90th Celebration 8th October

2011-10-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Family,

Here's the recent celebration taken with my cam. Photos are enlargement ready, it took me awhile to upload due to it's size. Cheers.

Ed

New Born Benjamin

2011-06-25T08:51:00.001-07:00

In Labour Room, Before to go into Operation Theatre.

New Born Ben peeking who's around.

3 Days old, just arrived home then sleep till mouth open in triangle shape. CUTE !!!!

5 days old, having Sun tanning.

Looks like Ben enjoy it very much.

Hi Everyone,

Please welcome a new member in the family, Benjamin Lim Giap Hoong, son of Chesmond & Carrie. Born on 21-June-2011 at 6:47pm weighing 4kg (8.13pound) lenght 47cm. My boy was the biggest that day in the hospital (King of all babies).

I went to induce on my due date after a week waiting for any sign of labour. After 8 hours, found that the pelvic bone is not opening and have choosen to do caesarean section. Fortunately I have done c section as the baby head was very big and it would be a hard labour if I do it the normal way. His head overall is 36cm after birth (wow).

Well, I am fine still in confinement and will post more pictures later.

Love from,

Carrie

Oz Trip - Wide Angle Pics

2011-05-31T03:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics taken with a wide angle GoPro cam during our trip ... this one is taken at Robe

This is a pic of Blue Lake which is actually an extinct volcano crater located at Mount Gambiar

Umpherson's sink hole which is actually part of a garden of a private estate that sank

View around the twelve apostles

Cape Otway lighthouse

Oz Trip April 2011

2011-05-31T03:07:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics from our recent Oz trip for Nick's graduation. We spent a couple of days with Agnes and Hean Chye around Sydney and after that we drove along the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne to Adelaide.

Nick's graduation

Some coastal views around and town called Robe, SA

Some pics of the Twelve Apostles and the coast. Took our first helicopter ride for a bird's eye view of this coastline.

Light house at Cape Otway ... even climbed up the lighthouse for a good view

We went looking for wild koalas and found this cute looking guy along Kennet's River outside of Appollo Bay

We spent a day around the Blue Mountains outside of Sydney

These are pics from our visit to Kiama

Home with a lovely view ...

Pics from Bald Hill outside of Sydney

Pics taken during a day out to Sydney Harbour with Agnes and Hean Chye

Coat Hangar bridge in background

Bondi Beach ....

New member

2011-05-09T06:28:00.000-07:00

Let me introduce you to MICHI! Mum and Dad's (yeh yeh and mah mah/koong koong and por por) new ferocious guard dog.

Cool Terong Waterfalls 2nd May

2011-05-06T07:19:00.000-07:00

Labour day plus celebrate Ashley's 7th Birthday back in Taiping, brought the kids to Trong waterfalls have a picnic and cool dip as it was sooo hot in the afternoon, they had great fun, on the way back we manage to get really good durians too!

Scotland 21 - 26 March

2011-03-31T09:21:00.000-07:00

Since young, I'v always been curious about what's like to be in West Kilbride,Scotland and how Annie's house is like, well finally it came true and it's beautiful place. The home has a "charm" to it.. View from Sam's bedroom.. Portencross Castle

HDR photo but not a good one.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle

The royal mile leading to Edinburgh castle.

St Andrews

St Andrews "The Home of Golf" we did the pilgrimage!

The Old Course looking into hole #1 with the famous bridge

Royal and Ancient Clubhouse

Loch Lomond

Cute and funny boy

My favourite scenery shot, surreal HDR photo.

Double click to expand panorama shot. 3 frames combined into 1.

Took this when I noticed the water was reflecting the blue skies, such a serene place Loch Lomond is.

Feeding the swans and ducks by the dock.

We were told only Royals and Slovaks eat the swans..

Loch Lomond is a freshwater loch..the water is freeezing.

Drovers Inn aka Stagger Inn..great old place with many stuffed animals, the star attraction is the Haggis creature and Haggis the food.

Enjoying ourselves with the Haggis..very nice!

This was the only stout I've ever drank in my life...but I must say it was very nice!

I'll take on the wolf....

Settling down after very enjoyable trip..

Sunset at Law Hill, Ian's childhood playground and location of his secret tunnel.

Thank you McClure and Mackies !

Love Ed& Vin

Amsterdam 19 - 21 March

2011-03-29T08:24:00.000-07:00

Arrived Amsterdam Schiphol Airport on Saturday morning and took a connecting train Central Station where I was to meet Vin who was travelling from Delft after a week's training. Central Station was not that big but efficient. While waiting for Vin I took this picture of the multistorey bicycle park. It's the most common mode of transport for the locals, no wonder they are so fit and in shape!

Our nearly 20 euros breakfast at this cozy cafe. Not the same as their infamous coffee house which serves mainly mariuana. Double eggs, bacon, toast not shown here.

The details they put on their buildings dating is amazing. Every building has some artistry in them.

Giant pipe organ in the ancient Old Kerk ( Church). Again the details in the supporting column.

Dam Square monument.

De Papegaii hidden church when the times catholics were prosecuted by the protestants.

Bloomenmarkt flower market, the place for cheaper souvenirs and cheese!

Begijnhof nun's village.

Kalverstraat.

Canal cruise, part of our Iamsterdam visitors 2 day pass which includes our highlight, the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh museum.

Dinner at one of the famous pan cake cafes. Dutch speciality pancakes, ala roti canai, but softer with bacon and other toppings. Yummy!

Spectacular Rijksmuseum. No photos can be taken inside, the Rembrandts and other Dutch master's painting upclose (1 feet away) leaves us speechless. 16xx paintings so real life and details just like a photo. Some even you can see 3D effect, that's how good they were.

Note the house's age spotted during the canal cruise. The buildings typically built on wooden piles into the peat soil about 10 to 15 metres to reach sand layer. Some of them are tilting or leaning into neighbouring houses.

Bridges in a row..

Joordan, west of amsterdam.

Singel canal, taken in the early morning with no traffic. Our Rembrandt Hotel is one with blue canopy after the first lamp post at bottom left.

At Van Gogh museum, located about 100m away from Rijksmuseum.

Cobra cafe at museumplein where we had lunch. So nice to bask in the sun, temperature despite the sun is about 12 degrees.

Dam Square in the early morning. HDR photo.

At Vondel Park near the museums, southwest of Amsterdam.

Old Church near Red Light district.

Dirty Harry In Action

2011-03-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

At a shooting gallery in Phuket while on holiday with Lai Ying from 14/3 to 17/3. First time in my life firing a real semi automatic .45mm colt pistol. It cost 900 baht or RM90 for 10 shots. The gun packed a wallop. The attendant recommended that to the puny .08 mm pistol. Fun and good experience.

The Scottish Chinese New Year Celebrations

2011-02-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

The Mackie Clan

Iain, Gillian & Logan

Chicken Curry, Peking Duck, Meat Dumplins, Butter Prawns, Prawn crackers & fortune cookies

Logan, Thomas, Phillipa, Zac & Alana
Sam's attempt of peanut biscuits

Mia wearing her new outfit for Chinese New Year

God bless you all this New Year of the rabbit. May His hand be upon you in all that you do xxx

CNY2011 Year Of The Rabbit

2011-02-03T20:27:00.001-08:00

Behind the scenes to a good picture

2011-01-04T05:33:00.000-08:00

Uh uh, not quite right

Aiyah! wife's timing is off!

Everyone's flatfooted!

Finally, Perfect!

That's the conclusion of our Sydney trip.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T18:25:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmass to everyone and a Happy New Year! May God bless you all.

Good news to annouce during this season. A new family member will arrive soon. I am now 3.5mths pregnant and doing fine.

Sam,
Congratulations! She is so lovely. I am sure you are now very busy with your new baby. Take care.

With love from,
Carrie & Chesmond

Our Greetings

2010-12-23T06:15:00.001-08:00

To our dearest families,
May you have a Holy and Blessed Merry Christmas and a Good and Happy New Year.

With our love
Mike, Tricia, Amanda and Alicia.
23/12/2010 10:20 PM

Sydney Hol II

2010-12-23T05:24:00.000-08:00

Their true selves!!

Mine all mine!

3 Sisters, Blue Mountains

What are they pointing at? Hundreds of flying foxes resting in trees.

Australia - Nice

2010-12-17T05:14:00.000-08:00

Just met up with Pa and Ma, yes both of them enjoyed the trip tremendously and photos below are great. Thanks Mike, Pat and Hean Chye, Agnes.

PS Father wasn't feeling well when I met up with him yesterday, mild food posoining..

Ed.

Sydney Trip 4th to 14th December 2010

2010-12-15T05:06:00.000-08:00

Tomaree Lookout Point Bald Hill Lookout Point

Bald Hill Lookout Point Gan Gan Lookout Point

Port Stephens Blue Mountain

Blue Mountains Ferry Ride Across Sydney Harbour

Agnes's House The Famous Opera House

The Coat Hanger or Harbour Bridge

Our sincere thanks to Agnes and Hean Chye for being such gracious hosts. Our stay was indeed enjoyable, memorable and inches to the waistline.

2010-11-28T03:14:00.000-08:00

Congratulations!! She is so adorable..wish we could be there. It's so nice seeing everyone's happy and smily faces.

2010-11-23T05:38:00.000-08:00

Dearest family,

we are so pleased to announce the birth of our baby daughter Mia Grace Li Li Mackie born on Wednesday 17th November 2010 @ 13:02 weighing 6lbs 5.5oz. Mia is just gorgeous and we are so in love with her already. It was a very quick and fast labour and daddy caught Mia as she entered the world. Zac is now the big brother and is so gentle with his baby sister. Chris is delighted that he is now a big brother of a sister aswell as a wee brother too. Cant wait for you all to meet her.

Gbu love Sam a mommy of three ( wow weeeee :-D ) xxxxx

Dad's Eye Op

2010-10-13T11:21:00.000-07:00

Dear All,

Just a bit of update concerning Dad's eye op recently. I was back in Taiping to look in on the old folks and dad informed that though the eye op was successful, a secondary problem has been discovered which was previously overlooked by the eye specialist. Apparently there was a speck/growth that was found on the eye sac which is now obscuring his vision despite the new lens. This is between the new lens and retina which is blocking proper light transmission to the retina. Dad said that the eye specialist would look into correcting this in about 6 months time. So what was initially thought to be just cataract has turned out to be something more and he has yet to benefit from the operation . In actual fact, Dad has been getting by with mono vision only ie using his right eye only. This means that not only his vision is impaired but also his depth perception (or distance perception in relation to driving). I am sure you all know the risk he runs everytime he gets behind the wheel.

I have tried to suggest that after his eye is healed to go to a private specialist to see if the condition could be rectified quickly (instead of dad's intention to wait for another 6 months). Of course he is as obstinate as ever and has refused. So if any of you should contact/visit him, please do your bit to persuade him if you think it is the right thing to do.

Robert

Dad's Eye Operation

2010-10-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Dad had his eye operated on this morning to remove cataract and implant artificial lens this morning. He was 2nd in this morning que, and the surgery lasted about 15 minutes. He was discharged about 4pm and currently resting at home. Praise the Lord for the smooth procedures and thanks to Mike and Larry whom were there.

Cheers..

2010-10-01T03:10:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, its been a long time since we posted anything on here!!! Hope you are all well as we are doing good. Scott is working hard & its paying off bless God, he has also got another car however is in the process of changing that again lol. Chris has started college & is studying English, Maths & Human Biology. He also got a part-time job at the local hotel here as restaurant & bar staff- so earning pennies! Zac is now 27mths and has started one day a week at nursery here in the village & is enjoying having fun there & gives mummy a couple of hours to herself. I am now 32 wks pregnant so less than 8 to go!! Baby is due on 24th November & we are all very very excited. My waist size is now a healthy 41 inches hahahaha. Here is some photos of us all here in Scotland. Much love to you all, we miss you & pray that God is blessing you always.

Baby Mackie Number 3 ( 21 wks & 5days old)

Scott, Gillian & Iain
Two Cousins Logan & Zac
Mum & Daughter - Happy birthday Sam !!
Zac's 2nd birthday Guitar Cake (made by Sam)
Happy Birthday Zac !!
Zac about to throw a big rock into the sea Sept'10
Por Por, Mummy, Johnny, Chris & Zac

My little Stars

Christopher's 19th Birthday Rubik's Cube Cake( made by Sam)
Zac 27mths oldScott & Chris enjoying ice-creamPor Port, Zac & Auntie Julie

Hard Rock Hotel Penang 16~18 Sept

2010-09-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

Raya Holidays and we made a quick getaway to Hard Rock Hotel Penang spending 2 nights there. Located at Batu Ferringi beach, I think it's the last Hotel along the touristy stretch. But not before battling the bad jam in Penang, the whole place is like a giant carpark.

One of the many memoribilia found at Hard Rock Hotel
This is Chuck Berry's Gibson ES335

At the Hard Rock Hotel's main entrance

Ashley's turn at the slide.
The Kids are crazy over the slides and spent the whole day on them!

Bathroom..brush your teeth and floss 'em leftovers at Elvis.

Debbie Harry would be envious ...

Ash's first experience at the beach and seawater..

One of the many wading pools found at Hard Rock Hotel, this one has sand at the bottom.

The Gazebo's for hire..RM20 / hour..not worth it I think.

Beach Loafer...

The long pool is similar on both wings of the hotel..long.

Hard Rock Hotel seem to favour Beatles..they are almost every where.

Nice Fibre Optic lights over lapping their trade mark found at Lobby Entrance.

It changes colour.

View from our balcony.

More D.

Some Other Monkey Mia Photos

2010-08-24T06:06:00.001-07:00

Monkey Mia Resort

Fraser's Hill 13~14 June

2010-06-16T05:16:00.000-07:00

School's out, we brought the kids to Fraser's Hill, same time toying with my new GPS and enjoy some cool time out. The journey there was eventful, with the kids and their grandma getting motion sickness, that road is long and really twisty!

Arriving there, there's really nothing much to do..but that's the point. Not doing anything. But we had something planned before the trip - Tarantula watching! It was fun with the kids getting excited about it, we look for the burrows in the day time, record the location on GPS, and returned to the place following the GPS at night armed with our Maglites. It was fun and cool.

Nicknamed "Taranty" the biggest Brendan found near Pine Resort.

China: Beijing, Shanghai April 4~10 2010

2010-04-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

Tian Jin

We arrived at Tian Jin at about 3.00pm on April 4th under nice weather but a little hazy. There was a recent sand storm that occured in this vicinity and we can still see the roads,cars and building were still covered with fine brown/reddish tint. Luckily it happened before our trip.From the airport, we have to take a shuttle bus that cost us a mere RMB10 to get to the bullet train station that will take us on the 250km+ from Tian Jin to Beijing.

At this speed we arrived Beijing in about 1 hour, faster than F1 and it was silky smooth.

Beijing

Arrived and settled down and extremely hungry, we just tried the nearest Peking Duck joint. It was THE BEST duck I've tasted. Even cheaper and better than the famous "Quan Ju De" duck. Stay away from that joint!

Tiananmen Square, "ching ming" festival which is a holiday in China, we opted to do city tour as we would expect the tourist spots outside the city to be congested. Here many paid their respects to Chairman Mao. I also bought a RMB20 winding mechanical clock with Mao's face and mechanical waving hand on the face. (It doesn't work well )

9x9 door studs dragon phoenix crest, on many "layer" doors that separate the courts within Forbidden City.

The emperor's office is marked with 10 figurines. The rest 3 or 5 I think.

At the forbidden city's garden.

Temple Of Heaven

Here the emperor takes time off to pray for great harvest of the land and sacrifice farm animals.

These 2 kids caught my eye with their head gear.

This is seems is the oldest Chinese Juniper in Beijing, >500 years old. Called he "Nine Dragon" Juniper because of the growth that seems to coil up to heavens.Number 9 is the royal number those days.

Summer Palace Buddhist Temple built for the Emperor's mom.

Long Corridor, 700m+ long, it seems the Longest Corridor in the world. Emperor dispatch his artisans all over China to live in the areas and then come here to paint what they saw.

Summer Palace's huge lake behind us.

Cable Car ride up to Mu Tian Yu Great Wall segment.On the ground the Tobaggan Sled track can be seen. That's how we made our descent, it's one of the highlight to this part of the great wall, it was great fun riding the sled down.

Annie and I both made it to that top post. Looks mild in the photos, but in reality I had sore thigh muscles for next 3 days.

The Old part of Beijing, Hu Tong

My very own "Fear Factor" at Beijing City "Wang Fu Jin" area. Actually they are delicious!

Shanghai

On the day we arrived at Wee Eng's gorgeous Condo, we visited the Shanghai World Finacial Centre (SWFC), the tallest building in China that resembles a giant bottle opener.
The observation deck is the highest in the world, 100floors 474m up and it only takes 63 secs by the lift to reach 97th floor, then another lift up to the deck. It cost RMB150 for premium visit which entitles to go right to the 100th floor.

Next morning Pudong side of Shanghai's famous bund walk. Across the Huang Pu river is Pu Xi the west side.

Very nice treat by Linda, she muscled her way to get this great window seating overlooking the Huangpu towards Puxi.
Superb unique Shanghainese food served at "Charmes" restaurant.

Below: The typical river crossing that cost us RMB5 along with Noisy scooters, electric bicycles, spitting pedestrians.

Shangai Puxi, Yu Yuan gardens.

On the 9 angled bridge.

Nearby, is the famous "Nan Xiang" steam dumplings joint. We waited like 30 minutes in the que, paid premium minimum order of RMB60 per head and what we got are mediocre Shiao Long Paus. What a dissapointment. KL and Taiwan's are still the best!!

Yu Garderns mansion. Some super duper rich guy's home. It's even more impressive than forbidden city!

This guy is so rich he can even details like these in his buildings.

Shanghai Huang Pu River Cruise

People's Park and Musuem Visit

This plate is 800 years old.

It grew misty and view from Wee Eng's. That's Jin Mao and SWFC. Both are Top 5 tallest in the world. The Jin Mao is just slightly under Twin Towers measured at the cheating antennas!

Wee Eng's treat! Fried and steamed dumplings, yes these was much better than Nan Xiang at Yu Yuan, don't go there!!

More D.

CNY Mug Shots

2010-02-19T22:59:00.000-08:00

The family had the reunion dinner in Taiping albeit a smaller group. Those not present was dearly missed.

God bless our families.

Mike

20/2/2010

Happy New Year 2010!

2009-12-31T04:54:00.000-08:00

Dear Family,

2009 is such an eventful year for me, with the highlights being a really tough year at work for me with major company restructuring, an enjoyable getaway to Perth, Brendan getting 3As for his UPSR, getting to Form 1 and not having to go through a remove class, Carrie's wedding and the best for last..Ashley's return to KL to be with us and starting her kindergarten schooling next year.

Wishing All a Love, Peace, Happiness, Prosperity, Health and a Happy New Year 2010!

Love,

Ed.

Chesmond and Carrie Ties The Knot

2009-12-31T04:11:00.001-08:00

Contratulations Carrie and Chesmond. Wish both of you Happiness and many Kids!

The Promise.

(Contract?)

Contratulations Susan and Lawrence.

To sweep the bride away is challenging.

Great Food!

Such a Handsome MC.

Beautiful Siblings.

Loving Sisters.

The Men of the Night.

Cheers,

Ed.

Christmas Joy & Greetings

2009-12-19T00:04:00.000-08:00

To Our Dearest Family Members & Friends

May you have a Joyous & Holy Christmas.

With Our Love & Prayers
Mike, Tricia, Amanda & Alicia

Han-gul / Hello in Korean

2009-12-04T23:48:00.001-08:00

Jeju island coastline. 'Dragon's head' in the background

We reached the top of the highest hill in Jeju.

View from the top.

'Everland'. Korea's version of Disneyland.

Aaah! The warm..the warm...

Oh noooo...kim chee (korean preserved vege) yet again!

Visit to the local fish market

Our very first encounter with SNOW!!

And our own snowman. Ha ha!!

That's how our family Korea trip (24th Nov - 30th Nov)
was.

Roos and Koalas - Perth

2009-10-27T06:03:00.000-07:00

We took a short self drive trip along Western Australia between 10th October to 16th October starting from Perth then moving north bound to Shark Bay making stops at Cervantes to see the Pinnacles, then quick stops at Jurien Bay and Geraldton for R&R and precious fuel, then via even lonelier Indian Ocean Drive to Denham in Sharkbay 900 km in one day about 13 hours of driving. It's peanuts compared to the land mass of Australia.
Shark Bay is the most Western part of Australia with the famous Monkey Mia where wild dolphins regular swim to shore for feeding/human interaction and Hamelin Pool for it's Stromatolites (oldest living organism) and Shell Beach where the beach is made of billions of small cockle shells. These are only 2 in the world and the whole area was declared World Heritage Area by UNESCO.

It was so cold yet so sunny in Western Australia and we were told the weather was weird when we arrived, they had extended spring. But with it the beautiful vistas, wild flowers, fresh air and clear really blue skies, it was an experience of lifetime for us. Truely memorable and enjoyable getaway!

Caversham Park, feed and pet the Kangaroos. Strong hind legs, thick tails as counter balance and back stand.

The Koalas were one
snobbish bunch!

Silly ass have my vote as park mascot!

Lots of beautiful wild flowers, they are almost
everywhere in the bush.
This one is shot along
Munbinea Rd on the way to Cervantes.

Emu Downs Wind Farm, makes perfect sense
as this place perpetually windy. It's even much
more windy at Denham with winds 80~100kmh
at night. My camera ain't wide enough but
there are 48 of these here generating 80Mw
for 50,000 homes! GPS S30.46291 E115.3404
Elevation 142m.

Pinnacles at Nambung National Park.

Amazing clear blue skies.

Unique white sand dune at the dessert.

This cute bobtail caught my eye
at Geraldton scenic drive along
Indian Ocean.

Vin's turn at the Nissan Micra after I've put in 8 hours
drive after Geraldton. Nice frugal little car, makes sense
when fuel is 3x Malaysia's pump prices. Our favourite
pass time was hunting for the lowest pump prices!

Monkey Mia

Nikki and her calf, she has been returning to Monkey Mia for the past 12 years. The feeding of the dolphins are controlled by park volunteers and they only feed females and they were given max 9 fishes a day to prevent human dependancy.

Sailing aboard Catamaran Aristocat 2
Dugong, Sea Turtles and Dolphin watching.
How can it be so cold yet so sunny. I had sunburn
on my cheeks. We didn't expect the weather to
be that cold so we din't carry enough warm clothing.

Hamelin Pool, Shell Beach. It's not white sands
but white Bivalve Cockle shells! Only 2
known beaches of this kind.

Behind me are the Stromatolites.

We were surprised to see a pair of Emus
by the road. Such a bonus for us!

Eagles's Bluff
This calm and serene shot is nothing like this at all.
We have to brave 100+ kmh winds to take
this shot of Eagle's Bluff at near Sunset.
Such a beautiful vista, but standing still on the
platform without being blown off the cliff is
a challenge. Not to mention we were sand blasted
by pebbles blown off the ground up to our face!

Fields Of Gold and Lonely Roads

Some stretches of road are so lonely that we can drive for 15~20 minutes and there are no passing insight. I dread to think if Nissan were to kaput on us in such a remote place but we were surprised by the passing scenery such as this one plane bush land with wild flowers as far the eye can see.

On the way back to Perth, we entertained
ourselves during the 9 hours drive by counting
dead animals killed by roadtrains etc. We have
12 Kangaroos, 8 Rabbits and 1 Bird I killed
strayed across our Nissan. Poor fellow.

King's Park, Perth

Beautiful lanscape and concentration of wildflowers and Karri Trees. These trees have a smooth bark, wonder if it's like that whole year round?
King's Park also has a great view of Perth City.

Best Regards

More D

Raya Trip Taiping

2009-09-29T06:29:00.000-07:00

We did some travelling too during raya....back to old home town and had dinner with mom dad and Mike's family. Food was great and dinner venue was 3 shops away from cigar shop..can't remember the name. Mom and Dad are well...

Down Memory Lane...

Introduced Brendan to icy cool murky waters of Coronation Pool, Ash and Vin came along, had to pay entrance fees of RM2.00 even for non swimmers...anyone want some dip? Notice the tiles..it's renovated..except the source of water.

The old tree in Coronation Pool...beautiful. The orange moss is not photoshopped.

Taiping Scenics..

More D.

Flying Visit To Scotland

2009-09-23T10:04:00.000-07:00

Pics around vicinity of Loch Lomond (R) and me on the garden bench at Annie's home (L)

Got drag to a "Hen Party" where a friend of Annie was getting married soon

At the famous Turnberry Hole #4 which has a magnificent view of the ocean and their famous lighthouse

Picking blackberries found along the roadside all over the place including at golf course too. Had my daily dose of Vit C with these.

Below: Pinching 1 of Annie's apples from the apple tree at her home

Annie's hot number seen here against the backdrop of Glencoe. Very nice views of the highlands and the drive was very scenic

Taken along the way heading towards Loch Lomond

Golfing at Lochgreen golf course at Troon

Went for a short visit to Scotland during the Raya break and spent 5 days there with Annie and family. I had a great time and many thanks for the warm hospitality and great golf from all in Scotland.

Played 3 days of golf there with Richard and Scot. The views were great and the weather was excellent. Annie kept saying how lucky I was to encounter good weather whilst over there. Wish I could come back and tour the highlands on a bike.

Sawadee Kap From Phuket

2009-08-31T18:36:00.000-07:00

I went on an Iron Butt ride on my bike non-stop to Phuket Island in Thailand from Kuala Lumpur from 24~28/08/09. It was the low season becoz it was rainy but still I had a good time and spend the next few days touring the islands and did some snorkling too.

This could be your next holiday destination for you guys over in "freezerland". Accommodation is cheap (RM120/night) and so is food. You could also rent a scooter for RM30/day and everyone gets around in one of these. Otherwise there is the tut-tut that you could travel on.

Took the Phi-Phi island tour where you spend the whole day island hopping on a speed boat ... all in cost RM120/head.

Hello From Abu Dhabi

2009-08-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

Hi! Here are some pics of my rides over here. I just bought the Harley Davidson Road King and intend to do some riding and touring during the winter months.

I am currently back home in Taiping visiting mum and dad and will be returning to Abu Dhabi in a few days time. I just came back from a ride to Phuket, Thailand and will post some pics when I have the time.

Robert

Mobile Phone for Father/Yeh Yeh/Koong Koong

2009-07-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Over the weeked I got them a mobile phone and they are quite happy with it. I also managed to get quite a good number too :

+6016 566xxxx with the last 4 numbers the same as the last 4 numbers of their land lined phone.

I've not managed to teach father how to read SMS though as he was already getting overwhelmed with the basics of the phone. No, it's not a sophiscated model, just a basic Nokia model.

Cheong/Mackie/McClure Invasion 2009

2009-07-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for such a wonderful holiday. It was so great to see you all. Wish we were there.God Bless you all xxxxxx

Back in Time 2005

2009-06-26T20:45:00.000-07:00

Was looking through Hard Disk and these which were not shared previously. Thrown in some Post Processing and uploaded.

Brendan in BW

2009-06-23T07:42:00.000-07:00

My test subject... good boy!

6~7 June Pictures -2

2009-06-12T17:48:00.001-07:00

6~7 June Pictures - Come Get It

2009-06-12T08:11:00.001-07:00

Hi All,
I'm uploading some pics which I took which maybe too big to email. It's taking me a long time to upload these, still there are many more and it's so challenging to watch the upload bar progressing at the same time trying to stay awake at midnight, maybe if I'm hardworking, I will upload some more later.

Ed

JONATHAN IS 1

2009-04-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

Lake Area

2009-03-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

Belum Rainforest Resort

2009-03-26T07:11:00.000-07:00

Travelling Without Moving...Google Earth

2009-02-07T05:56:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Since our family members is located at various positions on earth, wouldn't it be fun to be able to imagine and extend the views of the surrounding terrain of our home with Google Earth, that way we can see, although outdated and sometimes low resolution of that place.

I tried looking for Annie's home, the best I can do is West Kilbride. Attached is a sample of my travel to 121 Taiping Gardens. You can see the GPS location on the image.

Can all of you who have G Earth please post your GPS coordinates?

Best regards..

CNY'09 PICs

2009-01-29T07:45:00.000-08:00

Hi! My name is Fido and I'm new to the Cheong family!! Ain't I cute?

I'm sooooo jealous....

CNY 2009 Greetings and Video

2009-01-28T19:28:00.000-08:00

CNY Greetings to All,

Please see attached video greetings from Taiping as well snippets from reunion dinner held at Soon Lee restaurant.

Dinner Video:

Ok we din't get it right the first time:

Life Down Under

2009-01-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone

We have finally fixed our internet line. Previously it keeps dropping because of our faulty switch board. Anyway we have addressed the problem and also I have finally managed to download photos from my camera btw the camera is fantastic.

Here is some photos of our home here in Blacktown, New South Wales.

We live in a townhouse (Australian term for terrace house) which is in a compound (not guarded) and we have access to an indoor swimming pool which is a little walk away from our front door. We have a little front yard and also a small backyard and on cool mornings it is nice to have breakfast out in the backyard. As you can see Hean Chye has already set up a koi pond out there and I have managed to grow some veges and plants. The little boy playing in the front yard is Oliver (our grandson) who is trying to help por por sweep the garden.

We will be driving up (12 long hours drive!!!! - this is a huge country) to Queensland this Thursday for CNY and also for the 2 grandsons' birthdays. Hope to post more photos of our trip.

Lots of Love

SOngs

HAPPY "NIU" YEAR FROM DOWN UNDER

2009-01-26T14:35:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone

It is a good idea to post email addresses here but I hope there is security of privacy and there will be no spams.

So there are the McCheongs and the SMackies now, so we here from down under will be McOngs or better still SOngs!! Think I prefer SOngs!!

I miss CNY in Taiping so much and it was good just to hear all the joyful chatter the other day over the phone. Chinese New Year is quiet here. On New Year's eve we went to Hean Chye's sister's sis-in-law place for lunch and we made yee sang (photo attached, got the recipe from Amy Beh of Kuali, TheStar the cripsy bits is from fried egg wanton skin and sauce is plum sauce with honey, tasted 100% authentic and better still from scratch). On New Year's day I went for Yum Cha with the two families again but unfortunately HC was working that morning. In the evening HC and I went pak tor and we went to an Indian Restaurant for dinner just the two of us.

For those who have missed my peanut biscuit and pineapple tarts here is a sight of it...heehee...sorry cannot sent the smell and taste....enjoy.

Hugs
SOngs

Contacts Please

2009-01-25T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

There was a consensus to have everyone's email address on this page for correspondences as well as invitation from this blog to facilitate and indentify authors.

Edward

2009-01-24T00:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Sam,
Zac is so.....cute. Be warned, he'll be smothered with McCheongs love. I've taken note of the dates of your hols back in M'sia. Pls let me hv your plans in M'sia. Hopefully Unc Mike can organise a family get together at Fraser's Hills? It has got to be one weekend.

McCheongs,What say you??

Cheers,Unc Mike24/1/09 4:27pm.Will be leaving for Tpg for CNY hols in a short while.

2009-01-22T12:19:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year from the Smackies hee hee. Scott, Sam, Chris & baby Zac.

We would also like to inform the family that we will be back in Malaysia on the Sat 23rd May with my mum also. Can you please email my mum to let her know about possible weekend to celebrate Por Por's 80th Birthday - also aunty Agnes's wedding celebrations too. We will be in Malaysia from Saturday 23rd May until Sunday 14th June.

Wish we were there - save prawn crackers, love letters and peanut biscuits for me hee hee.

C u all soon

GBU love Sam xxxx

Happy "Niu" Year Gong Hei Fatt Choy

2009-01-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

Wishing All a Happy Niu ( Ox in Mandarin ) Year, Gong Hei Fatt Choy and see you back home in Taiping for those making the trip back.

Safe driving and we'll be arriving on 24th wee hours in the morning to take advantage of toll discount.

Ed

BTW we have visitors from Hanoi ( probably David Cheong - you can write to me ( edward ) at more_deneiro@yahoo.com ) , France and Tel Aviv , Dubai ( Robert? ) , Minnesota USA, Sydney ( Agnes? ) , Singapore ( Uncle Francis? ..Aunties ) , Shanghai ( long lost relatives ;) , Japan ( myself ? ) Hello to all !

Congratulations!!

2008-12-23T06:27:00.000-08:00

Dear Hean Chye & Agnes,

Congratulations! We are so happy and wished we were there. Hope to see your video soon, you can post short video on this site too. And..

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to All...

Love from
Ash, Bren, Vin and Ed.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

2008-12-23T01:20:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to both of you Agnes and Hean Chye ... may your union be filled with wonderful blessings and happiness.

Robert & Family

We

2008-12-16T21:28:00.001-08:00

Wedding Registration - 12/12/08

2008-12-16T20:30:00.000-08:00

Hi All

Finally after 7 years we got registered at the Parramatta Registry here on 12/12/2008. It was drizzling lightly on that morning - showers of blessings from God. There were all in 11 friends and family (on HC's side) present. Two friends of HC's came up from Brisbane to be our witnesses.

On the bride's side I only had my friend Linda from Shanghai. Linda (my ex colleague from PanGlobal) was in Melbourne to attend her daughter's graduation so she flew into Sydney from Melbourne and spent a week with me.

I will try to post the video from the ceremony on the website.

Lots of Love
Agnes + Hean Chye

Wedding Greettings From Scotland

2008-12-11T14:49:00.000-08:00

Many congratulations on your very special wedding day. Wish we were there with you. Sending all our love and blessings to you both.

Marriage comes in kit form, you must build it up. Love each other, honour each other and most of all have fun together. God Bless you and your marriage

lots of love

Annie, Richard, Scott, Sam, Chris & baby Zac xx

Nice!! Anymore?

2008-11-09T14:46:00.000-08:00

Thanks for posting the photos, but anyone has anything on the final 6?

Edward

The good ole days

2008-11-07T18:39:00.000-08:00

The 3 Stooges. Guess who they are.

The first four.......

Aloysius Cheong Hon Nam &

Helen Foo Hoon Keow

Happy 86th Birthday!!

2008-10-12T01:33:00.000-07:00

Dinner at a restaurant in Tpg @ 11/10/2008

Sunday 12th October 2008

A very very Happy 86th Birthday to our dear Father, Yeh Yeh, Koong Koong and great grandfather, the family patriach. May the Good Lord showers his graces and blessings and keep you well.

With deepest love from all us, the extended family.

Zac Aloysius Li Peng Mackie

2008-10-11T02:36:00.001-07:00

Zac @ 4 weeks old
Proud Mum & Por Por
Do You Like My Hair - I don't even use gel much to my big brothers envie hee hee sorry big brother xx

oh its cold but don't I look cute @ 3mths
Me & My Por Por - oh cute

Yes that's me dedicated to Lord officially 28.09.08 at church awesome Praise God!!

Penal Island

2008-09-07T03:11:00.000-07:00

'Cleopatra' in the hotel room

Morning walk

The chalets
...and the pool

We recently went for a short holiday to Pulau Jerejak, just off Penang Island. The island can be seen from the Penang bridge. It was formerly a penal island until the early 1970s.

Mike

Family Get Together

2008-09-07T02:38:00.000-07:00

This was during our country's independence day @ 31-8-08

Mike

2008-08-26T03:49:00.000-07:00

Introducing Zac Aloysius Li Peng Mackie born on Sunday 29th June 2008 @ 4:33pm on Scott & Sam's 5th Wedding Anniversary! Weighing 8lbs 2oz. Annie with her 3 grandsons wow!!

Big brother Christopher's first cuddle from his wee brother Zac xxx

Malacca to Johor Bahru

2008-07-18T22:28:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

We've spent weekend 11/7/08 in Johor Bahru and I've brought Vin and Brendan with me on a working trip supervise some minor renovation at our branch office's server room.

Along the way we stopped by Malacca for lunch at Auntie Lee's Nyonya food restaurant. Food was not too bad, but service is so so with it being a family run type of restaurant. That place look familiar, did we ever had a family meal there before?

Happy Birthday Sam

2008-06-12T07:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Sam,

Greetings from Tokyo after 3 days of unproductive meetings. Would just like to wish you a very Happy Birthday and hope your hubby buy you lots of expensive carbon stones and your mom cooks you a delicious dinner!

Love from us
Ash, Bren, Vin and Ed.

Hi All

2008-05-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

Family dinner time yum yum as you can see we have already got Gillian into the whole chopstick thing.
Chris getting hooked up ready to go & catch dinner ..............well nearly caught dinner he said it got away!!
Scott & I with friends in April

Dancing Logan Pie -Cutesy he gets his moves from his dad, shake those hips hee hee xxx

2008-05-31T07:41:00.000-07:00

Wow can you believe it we have less than 4 weeks to go yahooooooooo. As you can see I am doing well or should I say swell hee hee. My waist size is a healthy 42inches & I have never in my whole life been this heavy & dont my feet know all about it. Getting really excited about this little bundle joining us real soon. Love Koong Koong's new car. Edward your children are so cute. I miss you guys and hope all are well. Will post some other photos on here as its great to see.

Much Love Sam xxx

Kenari Update

2008-05-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

Before I left Tpg I took the kenari to Dad's regular mechanic to check out the car due to the rattling and rumbling sound from the engine. Well Dad has informed that the engine mounts (3 Nos) were replaced as we have suspected and that was that. He said that all is well with the car and that he enjoyed the power steering. Mayb any one of you guys can test out the drive shafts (viz do full turns to check out the drive shafts) when you are back visiting. Engine mount replacement cost RM300+. Cheers.

Robert

Poor Kancil

2008-05-21T04:47:00.000-07:00

Dad's new car looks great from the photos, dad confirms the paint work is in great condition, ( polished before delivery? ) I'm sure he was very surprised when he saw it!

Is that some tint I saw on the window? It really does help in keeping the car cooler in our hot climate. I can't help but noticed Kancil seemed to be sidelined in the back ground ; )

Edward

P/S Dad said the thing appreciates most about the Kenari : Power Steering!!

Dad's "New" Kenari

2008-05-18T17:39:00.000-07:00

Hi Everybody,

Here are some pics of Dad's 'new' used kenari that Lawrence and family managed to get on our behalf. Already lost some money on 4D but then again who knows, persistence may pay off in the not too distant future. The Car is in great condition ie paintwork, interior, tyres, etc except that maybe engine block bearings may need to be replaced. Will take it to Dad's regular mechanic to check it out before I leave for KL.

Dad is taking to the car like fish to water ... after intro ride with Lawrence and Mike, he was already driving off on his own. So no need to worry. Just notice that the rear view mirror may be located a tad higher due to car headroom and he will have to look up instead (which may not be too good). Anybody with solution to this? Maybe a glue on rear view mirror from other makes??

Tomorrow the mechanic will come by to collect the car to replace the engine rubber mounts. I have a sneaky feeling the drive shafts may also be worn. Anyhow, you can check with Dad tomorrow.

My Taiping 20080503

2008-05-09T23:49:00.000-07:00

My recent visit back to Taiping. We had matang seafood with Pa and Ma and we were looking forward to some crabs, but unfortunately no crab available according to Ma, it's early month and best time is when the moon is full. So we had fav pomfret, prawn, lala (failure, don't order this ) and vegetables.

Happy Mother's Day !!

Regards to all

Edward

They are so alike ...

Hi Alex

2008-04-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

Hi Alex,

Welcome to this cyberspace slot, it's good to see you, obviously you are quite well in the US, having puffy cheeks and nice weather.

Edward

Happy Birthday Annie

2008-04-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

Alex Cheong Reporting In ~

2008-04-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

Hey guys & gals,

Nice to finally see the cheongblog, I have miss out so much !!
Still surviving here in US. And hope to return home soon.
There is so many old pictures of such good times.
Great job on creating this sharing site.
Here is a recent photo of me in Washington DC for cheery blossom.
Keep in touch ~

Changed to registered users Commenting

2008-04-17T07:23:00.000-07:00

Dear All,

Spammers and virus spreaders had invaded our site, I have just changed from anonymous comment posting to registered only to minimise this.

Edward

Taiping March 2008

2008-04-12T07:34:00.000-07:00

I was back in Taiping during Good Friday weekend and spent sometime with Pa and Ma and with our daughter whom we missed so dearly.

HERE COMES LITTLE JONATHAN

2008-04-06T21:36:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone.

This is my new little boy. born on 29.03.2008 at 10.43am weigh at 3.58kg.

He is healthy so far and eating and sleeping well. His full name is Jonathan Liew Jhun Kit.

Gong Hei Fatt Choy 2008

2008-02-09T23:43:00.000-08:00

Happy Lunar New Year 2008 and it's welcome year of the Rat. Rodents included?

Here are some pictures my camera saw during this festive season...

Happy New Year and Love From us

Ashley, Brendan, Vin and Edward

Looking Back Thru The Years...

2008-01-20T00:31:00.000-08:00

By the way everyone's invited for CNY eve reunion dinner at 121, Tpg Gnd. Dinner arrangements is 'pot luck' i.e. bring your own dish. I'm sponsoring some dishes frm Kum Loong restaurant. Annie & Agnes will cook some dishes at home. Be home by 6.30pm.

Pls be careful on highway and a pleasant journey. See you all back in Tpg.

Mike

Lost Sheep

2007-12-27T19:45:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone near and far

I found my way through the world wide web to this family share. Happy 2008 to everyone, good health and may all your dreams come true.

I have posted here a photo taken immediately after my return from Scotland spotting my new hairdo which was sponsored by the Mackies which cost a cool 70 pounds!!!!

Nice or not?

Will probably be back in Taiping this weekend to spend some time with the folks.

Also I have posted here a photo of Taiping Lake Gardens which Hean Chye calls Heaven on Earth. The photo was taken by a professional photographer hired by a friend of mine. The beautiful picture makes a very nice wallpaper.

Cheers everyone
Agnes

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2007-12-24T16:21:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to everyone and a Happy New Year 2008.

Robert

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2007-12-24T04:44:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May 2008 brings joy, prosperity and good health to every one.

Cheers
Ed

Baby Mackie 12weeks

2007-12-20T01:21:00.000-08:00

Hi All

this is our baby at 12 weeks big difference from 7 weeks right!

Baby was actually doing a headstand I think we have a gymnist in the making.

We are all doing well and due date is 26th June 2008

GBU Love us xxx

Father's New TV and Recorder

2007-12-14T05:55:00.000-08:00

Some updates...father called me and he said he had successfully recorded his movie with the recorder. The recorded picture was very good he said.

Thanks Annie, Agnes, Lawrence and Robert for the reimbursements.

Ed

Father's TV and Video Recorder

2007-12-10T02:38:00.000-08:00

Hi all,

I was back in Taiping last Saturday and bought father a Panasonic 29" TV and a Carrefour DVD recorder for him to replace the TV which kaput last week. So the Taiping Keng Seng Panasonic was punctual in their delivery and was at Father's house at about 11.00am. They arrived and setup the set without any incident and left with old TV, that saved us the hassle of discarding the old bulky set.

I set up the DVD for him, it was ok, but frankly that DVD recorder is not that user friendly and father is still figuring how to set up timer recording! I was there to help him setup the TV channels for both the TV and Video and that took a long while. It was pass 1pm when I completed setup but it was already way past father's lunch time so I din't manage to write down the step by step for him on how to record the TV programmes.

As for the damage it's RM920 for the branded TV, RM450 for the video, 2 DVDRW, and water filter total RM1370. Will sms you guys my MBB bank account for reimbursements. But all in I think he is happy and appreciative with the new TV and Video.

Edward

Introducing Baby Mackie

2007-11-24T08:50:00.000-08:00

Hey All

Greetings from Scotland, would like to introduce you to baby Mackie. This is a scan photo of our baby at only 7 weeks old AMAZING. Scott & I seen the heart beating away it was most spectaular sight we have seen in long time. I am due on the 28th of June 2008 so only 2 months after Nina. Been very well and really blossoming already. Next scan is due on 14th Decemeber where most people will be able to adentify our baby being a baby rather than a butter bean. At the moment we have already nicknamed baby butterbean, cute!

Will keep you all up to date. Much love & hugs

GBU Love Sam xx & bumpette xxx

Public Pingers..

2007-11-18T16:05:00.001-08:00

Hi All,
One of the simplest way to increase traffic to your blogsite is to post information on it to a "public pinger" such as www.petalingstreet.org (Malaysian Pinger)
But since this blog is more of family blog, it's low profile in the WWW but still if you google search cheong blog, it was not pinged for readership.

CheersEd
PS welcome Rob, nice scenery

Greetings from Kota Kinabalu

2007-11-18T00:34:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! Greetings!

Mike provided info on this blog and here I am. I was over in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah from 12-14/11/07 and thought I'd share some pics I took whilst over there.

I was in between jobs then and had some free time before I start work with new company in KL so I had a short holiday over in Kota Kinabalu and put in 2 games of golf. All these pics were taken in and around Kundasang which is at the foot of Mt. Kinabalu. Weather was nice and cool though a bit wet this time of the year.

Mt Kinabalu is in the background of these pics at 4095metres, it is the highest mountain in South East Asia.

Scott & Sam; make this your next destination???

Cheers

Robert