Poppypaps by Ms Potatoe

18,880 hits

2012-01-22T21:39:00.001+08:00

Thanks to all, my blog clocked 18,880 unique visits today since the day my blog moved here from blogcity a few years ago. An auspicious start to the year of Dragon! May all of us have a smooth-sailing year, blessed with good health and enough money to spend!

Here's the Chinese New Year manicure/pedicure for mum but unfortunately she has now ruined it with all the chores and cooking she did.

No, Oma, no

2012-01-14T01:37:00.002+08:00

I was on the train back, thinking about that can of abalone my dad wanted and playing Unblock Me at the same time. Suddenly my phone rang, and my sister broke the news,"Grandma has died, she's in the hospital A&E now." I was stumped. I didn't know how to react, I wanted to go down, but she asked me to wait for another call. Then after some discussion, we rushed down, most of my extended family were there. We waited for nearly 3 hours before we got any news from the doctor. Geez. But fortunately it was worth the wait, they managed to save her. When the ambulance arrived, she already had no pulse. It was said she choked on her food but she didn't have the strength or ability to cough or react. Grandma has grown old and a lot weaker these days. I am so glad she survived this black Friday - Friday, the 13th.

Grandma, thanks for coming back and we do want to celebrate the Chinese New Year with you.

What I can do without her?

2012-01-12T10:56:00.001+08:00

On the days my mum is not cranky, she can be quite nice. Sometimes she's my hero. She also sometimes says things that never fail to surprise me.

This morning, she was happily shading her numbers for TOTO (lottery), when I casually commented. And she said if she wins the top prize, I will have the leisure of not working. You heard it right, she says me. Woohoo. How nice of her... When will we strike, please?

I had a very frustrating night trying to remove stains from my new dress, but it got worse this morning with more area affected. I had so many question marks and my head was about to explode. I showed it to mum, and she immediately found the cause. The color was coming off the sleeves which was black. So much for doing my own laundry and best thing I learnt to blame myself for things like this. I gave up, mum offered to help later today while I am at work. I hope she does magic because she can.

Superhero, mum, you are.

Motivated

2012-01-10T00:00:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Koert's new photo on Facebook today, I feel inspired. Nothing shall keep me back from pursuing what I am passionate about. I need to spend more time this week building up my self promotion booklet :P One step closer!

Is there even a destiny?

2012-01-09T00:59:00.001+08:00

I'm awake and thinking. As usual, I wish my brain is more retarded, it would save me some sleeping time. I just read a friend's wife's blog, a cancer survivor. I don't know her but she is an inspiration, her blog is so often filled with optimism revolving around her life stories. Even an entry on her trip to the dentist was a good entertainment. Then I got linked to another blog who quoted a phrase, saying something along the line, that if bad things didn't befall, most wouldn't cherish what's around them. So true but I certainly don't want them to happen too. I always make myself promise to cherish the things and people around me, but its always easier said than done. I am thankful for everything even though imperfect. But only with imperfection, there's room for improvement. Change is like my only constant. I always believe changes are good when things are too stagnant, and are somewhat limiting you from releasing the full.potential. I also trust that the people we met along the way came into our lives for a purpose (probably said this before) and when time is up, they leave. Some stay to fulfil a greater purpose. Do you believe so?

A new start

2012-01-08T22:50:00.000+08:00

I had a dream yesterday that I shaved my head. Yes, all of my hair off. I have never been this courageous... but in the dream I was. I was so sick of my hair and I decided to do it. I was even fascinated by the idea that I could use my wigs! This is amusing.

I did a little search online about my dream. It might signify that I want a fresh start, a new beginning. And yes, I want that.

Signs

2012-01-05T17:58:00.002+08:00

Life is always giving us signs to guide us along. If you read "The Red String Book", it says our journey is actually to discover ourselves, to make us grow and wise up. Do you believe it? Many probably didn't know what's the purpose of life? Many of us chase after fame, wealth and status, why we do need them? Do we really need so much money to survive? Are we chasing blindly because everyone else is doing the same. I don't have an answer. Recently I got upset with certain things and some people. Why make myself miserable when they probably don't care? I take them as a sign to move to, to initiate something to lead to something else. Do I want to sulk, complain, get stuck in the situation without doing anything... Quite impossible. So get on with life, smile along the journey, it will be a breeze.

Scum

2012-01-05T00:27:00.001+08:00

I hate it when someone shows their true colors. So many times, I witnessed all these fake people trying to be nice, trying to impress, trying to be amiable when they are actually not. I have lost my motivation because someone I respected is not worthy of my worship. He made me feel disgusted, his pretence so often irks me, his conversations only trying to make him look good. Selfish. One of a SOAB, sorry, have to use acronym to be less rude.

What makes me happy...

2012-01-04T11:14:00.001+08:00

It's not living for the future, saving for the future, and dreaming of a perfect ending... But it is doing what I really enjoy at the present moment. Unfortunately its not happening right now. I need to escape.

2011 Recap

2012-01-01T23:51:00.002+08:00

A number of things I am thankful for...

1. A business trip with my first business class flight
2. I visited London
3. I visited London, in winter
4. I got rid of friends whom are not worthwhile, but the true ones have returned
5. I participated in charity fund-raising doing what I really enjoy, gift-wrapping
6. I survived an accident during my travel to Chiang Mai (probably not my first time, but always got lucky)
7. I got close to elephants, and I fell in love with them
8. My first trip with my elder sister went quite smoothly despite our clashing personalities
9. First of our FAB 4 got hitched, and I was the maid of honour, my speech was amazing I was told (^.^)
10. FAB 4 finally reunited for the first time in years, at the wedding
11. I attended a proper cooking class, making Thai cuisine (of course, in Thailand)
12. I started joining my friends for weekly Trivia night and was amazed how much I didn't know out there
13. Nail painting became my therapeutic hobby
14. I ran my first marathon for charity
15. Joy returned to Singapore and we always have fun hanging out
16. I picked up a new sports, spinning
17. My team at work is great so far (though I have realised otherwise about some people)
18. I have overcame the fear of carrying a month old baby :)
19. I bought my first Marc by Marc Jacobs tote.
20. I reconnected with my primary school friends, people I knew when I was about 10
21. I also caught up with my secondary school friends and teacher
22. I have adopted HTC, and missing my BB
23. Everyone at home is still healthy, alive and kicking.
24. I enjoyed Malacca so much I went twice this year
25. My dear Toshiba lappy is still going strong, about 4+ years old now

And there are probably many more that I left out... but I am thankful I survived 2011. It wasn't bad, but not the best. I hope that all things will be even better in the new year.

Welcome 2012!

Bye 2011

2011-12-30T19:08:00.002+08:00

After sorting out the finances, feelings and finishing things off at work, I am ready to face the new year. Here I am, going to bid farewell to 2011.

Next year will be a new challenge. After reaching 30, suddenly I feel adventurous again. Maybe I should do some investment. Maybe I should do something in future that is not for the sake of money, e.g. volunteering at an olive farm or vineyard! Filling bottles with olive oil, stamping on grapes... how carefree is that compared to slogging away in front of a computer??

As everyone gets more competitive, I get more the opposite. I don't want to compete, to be part of them, I want to do something totally the other way round. I want to hide, do my own things and not care about the competition. Living in a society like today stresses me out, they make us constantly worry about our retirement funds, about surviving the inflation, about how much the government taxes us and not improvising, about how most of us struggle to afford a roof over our heads.Why have things changed so much in 20 years? Why? Why? Why? Why are things not so cheap like the past, why aren't buses 25 cents... I would give up the MRT, LRT and whatever we have now if things could go back to the past.

Anyway, I have to accept life as it is, try to be contented as we should. Alamak. The older we get, the more we think. The more we think, the more we worry. Can I be a bit more retarded please? (but I'm kidding!!!)

I have so much to write about the past 2011, I shall start another entry on that.

I hope you guys are ready for 2012 in less than 30 hours!!!

Onboard Logos Hope

2011-12-26T22:49:00.001+08:00

If you have no idea what or who Logos Hope is, you're not reading the news, either that or you haven't been out of the house for ages! Check out the link to know more about the huge vessel currently visiting Singapore. It also holds the record of holding the world largest floating book fair. Onboard are 400 crewmembers from over 45 countries who have a common goal of serving the common good, 11 of them are Singaporeans. How I envy them :) With my sea sickness, I doubt I would be able to sail around the world like them! Still, I went for a visit, bought some books and cards, the blanks cards are from various museums in United Kingdom - save me a visit :p Do pay them a visit, as it is their first time they're here, and hopefully not the last. Logos Hope is owned and operated by GBA ships registered under a charitable organization in Germany (I just found out too!) and the ship has sailed around the world, helping countless people in need. Suddenly, I feel like joining them.

French nails

2011-12-26T19:01:00.001+08:00

First time, french manicure. Of course, it's not on my own hands. Sister never painted her nails, but when I asked if she wanted me to paint for her. She requested "french manicure", I think it has to do with the word "french", she can never seem to get that out of her head. It's not perfect, but it's easier than I thought.

Using Sally Hansen colors.

On the side note, here are my colors. Please note that the painting is a little horrid as I did this after so much gift wrapping, my hands are tired :p

Cola - just the color of the drink, Cola

Cynthia - Teal blue, I call it Peacock blue

Being a volunteer

2011-12-26T18:35:00.001+08:00

Besides those activities "forced" by the schools and the companies, this is my second time volunteering. I remember the first time, my sister and me sold paper tulips to raise fund for cancer. It was hard approaching strangers for donations, but when people willingly came up to you, it really made our day. I begin to see and understand why volunteers volunteer when I am one myself. I hang out with people often of similar goals, whom want to do good, to contribute without asking for anything in return. I used to envy these people, I always asked myself why are they so kind, what do they get in return... But today, I don't (and I never found out the answer till today) because it is really enjoyable being one of them. They are usually very nice people whom want to give an extra hand, and the happiness we derive from it, it isn't money. It is the satisfaction we get when we meet other kind people who are willingly to support our cause.

p.s:
On my first day (Mon) we wrapped 35 gifts in 5.5 hours;
On my second day (Fri) we wrapped 119 in 5.5 hours;
On my third (Sat, Christmas eve) we wrapped 98 in 3 hours!

Just for you

2011-12-26T18:25:00.000+08:00

Merry Christmas my dear friends!

Gone

2011-12-23T15:20:00.000+08:00

(fluff)Friends is gone. Another game losing money and decided to close down the app? But they had done so quietly and so many are angry about it because they spent real money on it. I never have the habit of spending on things like that, I probably don't understand how people get so obsessed and began to spend their money on online games that would not give them anything back, except a few minutes of pleasure. Oh well, some people do.

Bye my beloved virtual Tommie. He's the pet giraffe I have in (fluff) for years. Afterall, I still have the real one by my side :)

30 goodie packs

2011-12-22T01:16:00.004+08:00

They come in cute Daiso transparent bags, each fronted by a Santa Claus on a red Christmas wreath. They are selectively packed with Cheezels, Twisties, Andes, Palmer, Toblerone chocolates and some others. Thirty of them. I have meant to give them away to friends and colleagues.

After being a day or two of "Ms Santarina", I am now left with just a few packs to be given out. This year, I have decided to do it a little different, I have allocated some for the auntie at YAMI yogurt, the receptionists, an administrative uncle and two cleaners in the office. The reactions from them varied but it pleased me watching the joy I witnessed on their faces. I wanted to describe it to you, because it is just so different from the ones I get from my colleagues.

Few hours ago, my Facebook status wrote,"Giving the cleaner a goodie pack is more satisfying than giving them to my colleagues. Those are the people who need to feel appreciated." Isn't it true? My mum once worked as a cleaner, and I really detest people who tend to not show them any respect.

So I shall describe the reactions from the few people I mentioned above.

#1 - New receptionist
She has been here for a couple of weeks, thus very new and still warming up to the place. When I passed a goodie pack to her, she seemed really surprised and thanked me immediately. Later that evening, she actually "opened" the door for me which she usually doesn't (pressing a button to release the security door).

#2 - Administrative uncle
A Malay uncle who has been doing the courier and the ad-hoc stuff in the office. Everyone knows him but few really talks to him. He was standing in for the receptionist for lunch when I presented him with a pack. He seemed very glad too. When I saw him again, he actually gave me a very sincere smile.

#3 - Receptionist
She's a familiar face to all and a couple of times I had some small talks with her. Nothing serious or too personal, just very general things usually. When I handed over her a goodie pack, she reacted like the new receptionist, then sent me another thank you message over the IM.

#4 - Cleaner auntie (office)
This plump auntie loves to eat. She would eat at any chance. I would sometimes give her some food as it's her next pastime in the office besides cleaning. She's a little lazy but overall quite harmless, except for her greed for food. So when I gave her a pack, it seemed like just another of the occasion I gifted her food.

#5 - Cleaner auntie (toilet)
This poor auntie always has this grumpy face. I could understand as my mum was once doing the same job. She once cursed and swore when someone made a mess in the toilet, I would too... I couldn't stand it when I see some inconsiderate bitches leaving the toilet paper all over the floor or left their mess in the cubicle. She always come at specific timings to replenish the stuff in the toilets, so I waited for her the whole afternoon today. She's also often left stranded outside the door when the receptionist is away, she would press the bell but no one came to her aid. Then I would go to her rescue, often enough for her to recognise me. She would smile and thank me. Then I realised, she's very amiable afterall. Today I went in while she was cleaning the toilet, suddenly stood in front of her and gave it to her. She was shocked when I said,"It's for you!" She recovered and said in Mandarin,"For Christmas?" I said,"Yes!" She gave me a smile that brightened my gloomy day; I am so glad she knows she isn't forgotten.

#6 - YAMI yogurt auntie
The auntie I met when I was a teenager. I haven't visited her for a few weeks now, feeling a little guilty and decided to have one for dinner today. It was about closing time, she was more busy than usual, doing her closing. She seems a little hostile than usual, but soon warmed up when I chit-chatted with her. When she handed me my yogurt, I handed her the goodie pack. Her face lit up and said,"So sweet! Thank you!" I have heard this a few times when I gave out the packs, and always have thought it's a very common thing to do. But hearing that, it sounded like I am an alien!

Why? Tell me why?

2011-12-21T23:59:00.016+08:00

I'm having a bad day, or should I say I had. So serious that I didn't have the appetite for food, I only had a cup of yogurt and some chocolates. I'm afraid of this society, I'm sick of being in the rat race, I'm tired of competing against others, I have had enough. Living in a place like this, in the world today, I am easily not contented. I don't know why, perhaps I should just do something else, without the sake of earning money. People can volunteer and get paid nothing but still enjoy it. Why do people like us get paid, doing something not as enjoyable, and still do not get the desired happiness?

Perhaps The Red String Book has an answer.

p.s: Thanks Joy for getting a Kinder Joy to cheer me up. She knows I love Kinder Surprise but they are almost non-existent in Singapore now.

If you suck at gift wrapping, come to us!

2011-12-19T20:33:00.000+08:00

I came to know about this event when I did a google search on charity gift wrapping - Love for a dollar. It's basically providing Christmas wrapping service for kind donations going towards Salvation Army. I love my handicrafts, so it is perfect for someone like me. I also found quite a few like-minded people on the same journey.

This morning, I started my first shift. It should be a warm-up before I do it again on Christmas Eve and the Friday before Christmas which I can foresee madness. The first two and a half hours, we literally had no one coming to us with gifts, except for a few kind donations. But later on towards the late afternoon, customers streamed in, mainly students, aunties and uncles whom are not at work. I must say we are quite lucky, we did not encounter anyone who refused to make a donation - any amount, even though we did state a minimum of a dollar. I heard from my fellow volunteer, she encountered one auntie whom made them wrapped the gifts and claimed to have no money when she was carrying a branded handbag and wearing gold necklace. Unfortunately, such people still exists. I hope I don't get to see them during my shifts!

Christmas nails

2011-12-19T18:14:00.000+08:00

Oh dear, oh dear... it definitely has been a while. What have I been so busy with!! Now I'm back for a little short entry, just to let you know I'm still here! ;)

Here's a little entry for the nails I did for Christmas :)

China Glaze - Ruby Pumps

China Glaze - It's Alive

Adventures with a cat and a dog

2011-11-27T23:57:00.003+08:00

I caught two movies recently.

One of which is The Adventures of Tin Tin. Believe it or not, I didn't grow up reading them, not even one page. It sounded like a good movie and my mate was so keen on it so I went along. Indeed I wasn't disappointed, I was laughing so hard at some point I was afraid my friend would give me a slap! The dog so clever, the animation fantastic and the cops so funny - good choice of having Simon Pegg. A good show but I don't think the young kids would like it as much as the grown ups.

Next, I had complimentary tickets to Puss in the Boots. By the producer of Shrek and Kungfu Panda, one would think its another comedy, but it isn't. Like Tin Tin, it's more of an adventure, this time with humpty dumpty, Jack and the beanstalk incorporated. Still refreshing and I like the fact that the humpty sacrificed itself in the end. If you adore cats, you will surely love the show, how cute is that baby Puss!!

Little bad heaven

2011-11-25T22:21:00.001+08:00

And this is my latest spot, done a few hours ago. Not by myself, but I could almost paint as good as this. The color code is 333 for Chanel, it's dark chocolate. My colleague who is a pro definitely paints SO MUCH better than this salon!!

Got this off deal.com.sg and it was $38, not cheap at all but it was using Chanel colors, a brand I never tried before and thought it would be a new experience. The recent deals are going for $20 for a session of classic manicure plus pedicure or $50 for 3 sessions. How true is the deal? You will only find out when you get there. After this time, I really don't think I want to buy such services, if you are a regular customer and bought a package, the service would be ten times better!

So I went to Little Dot's Haven located at The Bencoolen. It took me a while to find it as it's up one of the stairways, you just need to try peeping into the few "holes". It was empty on a Friday afternoon, so I had the full attention, wonder if it was a good or bad thing as they could then say anything they could make up with? Like, I was asked to top up additional $8 to use the quick dry top and base coat. I thought that was a ridiculous request, you should be using that for your customers already! Do you expect to use "slow dry" when they are paying so much? Then they tried to add on a foot treatment or recommend the gelish nails for additional top up. I hate hard selling, so I insisted not doing them.

Just for your information, the boss of the salon happened to be painting my nails (fingers only of course). Her face seemed to change when I rejected doing the treatment or gelish nails. Why force someone when they do not want it? Anyhow, then she tried to sell me other services like brow waxing. I gave in after her constant "nagging" but that was indeed better than her nails service. I think she should just focus on that than painting my nails!! What a horrible job she has done! She ruined that beautiful color. I had to ask her staff to repaint one hand because it wasn't done properly, the edge was not painted! Geez... If you're going there, I hope you're not getting the boss's personal service!! Seriously... I can paint better.

Blue & yellow

2011-11-20T22:28:00.001+08:00

I have been attracted to colors, pastel or bold, bright or dull. Last week I had the baby blue on (yes, one of the Chiang Mai polishes), and it attracted quite a lot of attention as I do not normally have such light colors on my nails. They were soft and mild, and as days passed by, they grew on me. I began to really like it till they started chipping. Not bad - it lasted me a week, the hawthorn color chipped even more quickly.

Yesterday, I was at the BHG's closed door sale and spotted this really catchy color off the Bourjois shelf. It's much cheaper than L'Oreal or the others. It was about S$9.8 before a whooping 30% off. Thanks to BHG for damaging my wallet! I know it's Christmas season but I have been spending far too often, I seem to have lost my self control. S$200 bucks gone this week - on shopping!!! Money is so hard to earn but so easily spent!!! Anyway, before I go off topic, yes, this is a really nice mustard color. It does seem closer to my skin color than what the photo really depicts. I hope it will grow on me because I do like mustard.

Gimme change!

2011-11-19T23:27:00.000+08:00

I'm a sucker for changes. When anyone around me encounters a change in their life, I am envious. Is it a disease or some kind of addiction?? I don't know.

My sister found a new job. And recently, a few people in the company left, one in less than 3 months, the other in less than 6 months. When things remain stagnant, I crave for changes. It's not that I am unhappy at my current place, but things are becoming too much of a routine, and it annoys me. Can all you people who are leading a routine life tell me how you do it??

Chiang Mai IV - ❤ elephants

2011-11-14T01:04:00.003+08:00

"Elephant Nature Park, Baan Chang Elephant Park, Elephant Nature Park, Baan Chang Elephant Park, Elephant Nature Park, Baan Chang Elephant Park..."

It kept running through my head, then I decided to drop both an email about my visit before making a decision. I made up my mind on the later as they seemed patient enough and did not rush me to make a booking. From what I read, Baan Chang is a smaller conservation centre and houses about 17 elephants.

Due to my burn, I postponed the trip to the second last day in Chiang Mai. I didn't want to cancel it as deep down I really wanted to do this, so I rang and asked if I could take part in things that wouldn't aggravate my wound. The person communicating with me was nice enough to suggest what I could do. But in fact I didn't skip any of the activities ;)

I was the first one to be picked up, and soon the van filled up and we arrived at the park about an hour later. We got a short briefing by the park owner. I am now confused who is the park owner, as this guy Pom says he is, while the lady on the phone talking to me named Tinar is too. Each of us pay 2400 bahts for it, its about S$100. The money as the owner said goes towards keeping the elephants full and happy and improving the home for them.

I was thrilled when I first saw the elephants. Since we arrived, we could see from afar they were swaying their trunks happily side to side. When we got nearer with baskets of sugar canes and bananas, you could see them dying to get near to you. But they were chained to the trees for safety reasons. I got to feed 3 different elephants and also got pictures taken. I did seem really delighted on the pictures.

After feeding, two elephants were brought up to demonstrate the bareback riding. We were taught simple commands to instruct them to sit, walk, turn and stop. We then each took turns to get on the elephant. After that, we were asked to get on a second time to make them walk a short distance and command them at the same time.

Doesn't the elephant look pretty happy? I don't know but it does seem like they really are. It's infectious and I am really glad I was there to spend time with them! They are not smelly like most people think! Even with their dungs in the bath pool, I didn't smell a thing. Probably I'm intoxicated by them, still am. :D

We had lunch after the riding lesson. After food, we were going to go trekking with the elephants! Two to one elephant, I shared Jumbu (her Thai name isn't spelt like this though but Woody, our trainer, said its the name of the fruit) with a 65-year-old American auntie. I sat in front, commanding the elephant on the way up, but Jumbu was always hungry, she kept getting sidetracked (by food of course). It took a while before we finally got to the destination then they had a rest before we made our way down. I decided not to ride on the way down so I walked between the elephants, and trying to avoid getting my face smacked by their wagging tails. LOL.

We walked them to their bath pool where they happily soaked themselves. Some layed down and gosh... pooed at the same time!!! The baby elephant (about 2 years) was sitting in the middle, getting scrubbed by the caretaker. So so so adorable! Auntie and I began to wash Jumbu too. Some of the people in the tour decided to just watch, they were probably afraid of the "dirty water". After a while, I got distracted and started splashing at the passing elephants. Most of them are older and ignored my splashing, I think they quite enjoyed the cool water getting on them. But the baby elephant was the most cheeky, he went around spraying water... and when I splashed on him, he made sure he had his revenge too!

Thanks to Woody who caught this funny picture! The elephants sure made my day and a fantastic end to my holiday. I would recommend anyone doing this if you're an animal lover :)

Chiang Mai III - Temples

2011-11-13T01:22:00.002+08:00

Indeed, the Rose of the North, Chiang Mai, has countless temples. One cannot even start to count.

Someone said if you haven't been to Doi Suthep, then you haven't been to Chiang Mai at all. We made our way there, up the spiralling road up the mountain and then 300 steps up to the temple. The temple is huge, majestic and elaborated. One should take the time to notice and appreciate the beauty of it. The bells hanging at the edge of the roof, the wishes hanging on the rows of golden bells, the gold statues, the coins stuck onto a piece of stone, even the tiles, everything seems to be made with care and thoughts. Also a mini garden with beautiful animal/monk/child-like statues (like a mini heaven), you will see at the back of the temple. Around the temple, there are many cute statues that would bring a smile on your face.

Worth a mention - the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, right in the city. We did not get to enter as we were in shorts. Unfortunately, this one is becoming touristy, they even charge for loaning you something to wrap in if you want to enter. We did have a tour around the surrounding, go to the back and you'll see elephant statues along with other delicately designed accompanying temples. Many of the temple do look similar.

Here's some quotes (click on picture to magnify) I snapped from one of the temples, they are on different trees around the compound. I thought it would be nice to share them. I do like most of them, they do make a lot of sense. The few favourites of mine are "If there is nothing that you like, you must like the things that you have" and "Until death, there is nothing enough". Guess life should be as simple as it is, we are borned with nothing, remember?

One of the more unique temples we saw. This is somewhere in the middle within the gates. Sister likes this best apparently. We weren't not allowed to go up, so we could only look from far. There are also many other interesting temples around this one.

The cutest award goes to this one, outside the gates, its along Thapae Road. They even have a Donald Duck statue. There are many animal statues and makes it almost zoo-alike. There is no other similar to this.

My favourite beside Doi Suthep is this. I don't remember names for these temples as we didn't specifically look for them, it was just on the map and we decided to have a look. This one has a grand entrance, look at the stone entrance. Then most of the temple is built with wood (or at least it looks like it), then there are massive baskets of yellow flags (not sure of its significance). At the little green garden behind, there was also a monk reading, with a dog sitting besides him... so peaceful.

Chiang Mai II - Yum Yum

2011-11-13T00:05:00.007+08:00

And here's to the topic which most people like... FOOD! Those mentioned are carefully selected from the many meals we have had during the trip. Disclaimer: We did have some very good food, though authenticity not proven :P

I adore the Thailand fruit shakes, I always without fail have them on every trip to Thailand. The best one (shown above) is at Potluck Gallery, a mini shop cum cafe we chanced upon between our temples visit. The shake is huge, I swear taller than my face! And oh so fresh!!!

We also found Khao Soi, the Northern Thailand cuisine, recommended by my Bangkok colleagues. I like it so much we had it twice at the same place. I tried the pork and beef while sister sticked to her choice of chicken. I couldn't be bothered to look for it at other places, as we found it at a local eatery very near to our hotel. For a comparison, most people compared it to our Laksa, but it's more towards curry gravy but less thick.

Superb mango salad from the food stall along the Sunday Walking Market. The walking market is an eye-opener indeed, many sold handicrafts, food, clothes and even shoes. I did not buy much except for food and a few small stuff, like an anklet and postcards. But the sister got herself tonnes of rubbish :P I am somehow glad we missed the Saturday market else she would have bought even more!

Next is iBerry, a super cool garden cafe. I mentioned in a previous post, a place recommended by my friend who went earlier. We popped by the 1st day after a temple visit, sister was fascinated by the cakes and so we did that and the drinks. But we were upset we didn't get to try the ice cream, and so we went back on the last day for a second time! The ice cream that matched my nail colors (just coincidence)! These were my picks, Blue Havana and Brownie as sister ordered the ones I had on my mind Starfruit and Guave with salted plum sorbet. So we shared them all.

This is my Phad Thai tom yum with chicken, ice green tea with honey with sister's fried rice with pineapple, ham, raisin and cashew nut from Khun Mor's Cuisine. We did this right after the iBerry, to be honest, I wasn't hungry!! But it was about lunch time and the place was packed, we reckoned we should do a proper local lunch before we were to head for the airport. The menu is impressive, so much variety... Take a look at their website, I am surprised they even have an online version of it! The food was good, I just wish I was more hungry and could have eaten more!!

Last but not least, one of the dishes I made during my Thai cooking class with Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School. Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts. I like the fact they have a farm for students to cook at, but I did the town one for convenience. My review will be on Tripadvisor. I did this alone as the sister fancies nothing except pampering herself with foot massage. I enjoyed the experience and especially learning something from another culture, now I have a recipe book from them which I will try out when I have some spare time to cook. I also did tom yum soup and green curry. They didn't taste so bad actually and in fact better than a dinner I had outside!

Chiang Mai I - Yi Peng

2011-11-12T22:31:00.006+08:00

It's time for my travel journal again! Unlike the past, I'll be focusing less on the details but just the highlights of the trip :)

My main objective when I planned this trip is to join the mass lantern release at this event, Yeepeng or Yi Peng Festival. Apparently, it's a Thai buddhist event held by the locals. Here's a little extract from Wiki:

"Loi Krathong coincides with the Lanna (northern Thai) festival known as "Yi Peng". Yi Peng is held on a full moon of the 2nd month of the Lanna calendar. The festival is meant as a time for tham bun, to make merit. People usually make khom loi from a thin fabric, such as rice paper, to which a candle or fuel cell is attached. When the fuel cell is lit, the resulting hot air which is trapped inside the lantern creates enough lift for the khom loi to float up in to the sky. In addition, people will also decorate their houses, gardens and temples with khom fai : intricately shaped paper lanterns which take on different forms. The most elaborate Yi Peng celebrations can be seen in Chiang Mai, the ancient capital of the former Lanna kingdom, where now both Loi Krathong and Yi Peng are celebrated at the same time resulting in lights floating on the waters, lights hanging from trees/buildings or standing on walls, and lights floating by in the sky."

I managed to figure out the date for this year's festival and booked my ticket, unfortunately many people booked for the wrong date as there are two this year and the later one is made up specifically for the tourists. You need to pay 100USD for the later one, while the first is free. We found Jack from the forum and got him to take us there.

Before the event, we had free food donated from the Buddhist temple. Then we bought a lantern, found a spot to sit and waited for the ceremony to begin. After the sun set, the monks strolled in on the red carpet, there were chantings and prayers before they finally lit the first khom loi and then helpers came around to light our candle holders. Then it was our turn! It was very nerve-wrecking as the lantern would easily get burnt if not done properly given the huge size. Fortunately, there were many Thai people around whom were very willingly to provide the extra help :)

We were sitting togeher with some Americans who came along with Jack. Emily was travelling alone so we shared her lantern as well as she couldn't possibly handle the lantern alone! The first time was exciting, my sister and I lit it with some help, but we were so nervous we let it go without making a wish! Then when you looked up the sky, here's the view we got.

It was magnificent, breathtaking, stunning! Everyone was speechless, admiring the sight! Touching!! I was so glad I came, I was there and I participated in it!

Then when we lit Emily's lantern, we were more ready this time. It nearly caught fire but thanks to the local, we saved it! We finally got it up, and before we let go, I screamed, "Make a wish!" We closed our eyes for a moment, and then I said, "Ready?" They all nodded and we released it! I shrieked and tears almost flowed down! It was so surreal and I would want to do this again (maybe at Taiwan's Pingxi Festival!!) or perhaps back here in Chiang Mai!

I was so restless I couldn't stop going around snapping pictures. Then I carelessly bumped into one of the blown out candle holders (used to light the lantern), and the hot wax got splashed over my shoulder and my face. I was still calm, but I told them I got burnt then they immediately doused me with plenty of water. I remembered I saw the First Aid booth while I was walking around, so I walked myself there. I wasn't in lot of pain, but my arm felt hot. My face was fine, phew. I had to remove my shirt to have the wet towels administered over my burns, fortunately that day I decided to wear something underneath! Seemed almost like this had been planned! There was a doctor on-site, and many others soon came in with similar burns. I was given a pain-killer after they managed to cool down my burns with the wet towels, and then a presciption so I could get medicine from a pharmacy.

Thanks to Jack and his wife, Ting, I managed to get to a pharmacy and Ting also kindly gave me some burn cream when we visited their stall at the Sunday Walking Market the following day. Blisters came up right away. So it's second degree burn. But fortunately it wasn't so bad that I needed to go to a hospital. It was only the 2nd day of my trip and I had so much planned!! I was so worried I got to cancel my elephant mahout training! This got to be one of the worst accidents I have since I travelled.

Despite the burn, I felt blessed enough that I pulled through the holiday smoothly. No infection. No burn on my face. No pain (not much that I can remember!). And right now, the new skin has already formed, it doesn't look like I will have any scar too. Thank you for looking after me!

11.11.11

2011-11-12T17:16:00.000+08:00

First marathon. What a significant date for anything for the first time!

If you know me, you probably know that I am not a fan of running. I used to have running knee I called it, so painful that I couldn't even climb the stairs. Then after a series of pilates and self-care, I can hop and jump now. But I never was keen in running as a sports, even during my school days, I struggled to pass my NAFA test 2.4km. I still managed a silver just before I left school, but I think not anymore ;)

The company sent an email about a charity marathon - The Bull Charge. The route was fascinating - along Fullerton, Marina Bay Sands and Singapore Flyer. Don't you agree what a scenic running track! So I was tempted, even if I wasn't running, I could walk. I decided to join in the fun, with almost half the Singapore's office colleagues.

Here's a photo of our "uniform", the company decided to make us kilts so we would stand out from the other companies. (No photo of me in kilt here, of course!) It was a crazy turn-out, we had difficulties running in the first 1km as it was too packed to get pass most of the slow people. I did half walking and the other half running and managed to clock about 42 minutes, need to see the exact time when the results are out :P

If you ask me, I would not do a marathon again, unless its for charity again ;)

山楂之恋

2011-11-08T22:57:00.000+08:00

I would never imagine myself being a big fan of painting nails. But right here, now I am. I used to think that it's a hassle and too difficult to do. I liked to keep my nails short and clean. Today ironically I am trying to keep them long, enjoying the painting (even painting for my mum) and even think it's theraupetic. I really think this phrase is true "Never say never" because some day you might just be so wrong!

I am in love with this color. There's no name or number, it's a brand from Thailand named Calar. I picked this up together with a few others (as below) in Chiang Mai in a tiny accessory shop. I will call it 山楂 or Hawthorn because it resembles the color of it, and is a color I had been looking for.

Holiday pix up

2011-11-08T00:42:00.001+08:00

Finally got around to putting two albums up, thanks to the long weekend. I am getting better at filtering photos, only 25% of the pictures are selected. So much more to do, to write about the holiday, to write reviews and I have not been writing my food reviews here as well. Horrible me. I hope I get more time, less brain cells killed at work and so more energy to accomplish more in the coming weeks.

Oh yes, the arm is healing! Pretty speedy. I'm already itching to peel it off.

The rose of the north - Chiang Mai

2011-11-04T01:20:00.003+08:00

The checklist for Chiang Mai all ticked despite a minor accident during the holiday.

✔ Yi Peng Festival - thousands of lanterns being released
✔ Baan Chang Elephant Park - learnt to command, feed , bareback ride and bathe elephants
✔ Thai Cooking Class - cooked 3 dishes
✔ Eat Khao Soi - a northern Thailand cuisine
✔ Sunday walking market - walking in my poncho in the rain, eating at the street market, exhausting my legs
✔ Visit temples - Doi Suthep is magnificient
✔ Eat ice-cream @ iBerry!!!
✔ Eat enough Thai food - Phat thai, mango sticky rice, Tom yum, green curry...

All in all, a superb holiday except for a burn... shown below (reduced the size, so you won't be feeling ewwww). I think scar can be quite sexy ;) Oh well, it's a souvenir from Chiang Mai. To be honest, I don't remember it being too painful, still thankful it was an easy journey after that, it's now drying up as I write.

p.s: I will fill up with the trip details later on.

Travel easy

2011-10-26T16:53:00.001+08:00

As I get older... my holidays are becoming less planned.

When I started out, I would fill each day to the brim... then slowly I decided to let go of some time to be "whatever that comes along"... and now I simply have nothing planned unless something is specifically happening on that day and I want to attend it. The rest is flexible. When I email about tour or visit, they would urge me to book because it would be "sold out" they claim. Isn't that always the case... I'm beginning to take it as a pinch of salt and have others as back up. Life should have options, right? :)

The parents are still worried. Their idea of Thailand is Bangkok. They do not understand the proximity, they do not know Chiang Mai to Bangkok is over an hour's flight. It's hard to convince them and it's harder to leave. Guess we need to make a call home. How do the parents in the western countries whom make their kids at 18 move out understand this, I wonder?

p.s: The holiday - It's tomorrow!

Celebrations of life

2011-10-23T00:42:00.000+08:00

Today I attended two celebrations of life. One totally opposite of the other. While one celebrates the birth of a child, the other celebrates the end of journey for another.

I feel so tired now, it's tough to be feeling so happy in the day and then swing to the extreme end in the evening. It aches to see a friend being so upset, and then us being helpless. I would never be able to put myself in her shoes, to know that feeling of losing your child, your own blood and flesh. The monster, cancer, is ruthless. I have lost cousin, auntie and uncle all to cancer... and once again, it hits someone again. I hate this thing called illness, if life invents such things, they should give us cures. If there's a will, there's a way, but it seems like there's none in this case. The little Char has fought so hard for her life, yet you never gave her another chance? I hope she's at peace now, no longer suffering. It was more painful to see her living on oxygen tank and bleeding from the tumours.

Thanks bugger

2011-10-21T01:10:00.003+08:00

Some bugger decided to establish friendship with all my contacts today... Even my blog is a victim, as it sent an email that automatically created a post here - deleted now.

My hotmail account has been compromised. I hope all my friends are smart enough not to open it. But I have a stupid sister, LOL. I can't believe she clicked on the link, no wonder her computer always goes bonkers, because she clicks on every single stupid thing people send her. It's not entirely a bad thing, so it made me change my password which I haven't for probably 14 years?? It went around saying hello to my friends and reported which emails are not working because they got bounced. Then it also made some of my friends replied or sent me a SMS asking me what I sent them! Busy day huh.

A whole new chapter

2011-10-19T22:53:00.001+08:00

Suddenly, I decided to wipe it all off and have a fresh start. Yes, my blog.

I have recently reached a new phase of my life and decided this blog should do the same too. New color. New title. New background. New template. New font. New image. The content remains, as I do want to leave a trail and look back later.

So how do you like this? :)

7 more days...

2011-10-19T10:35:00.000+08:00

The map is snapped from Thailand Tourism website today. Seems like the waters have left the north and seriously hitting the central and south. I hope Bangkok is shielded from the floods.

I also happened to be reading Chiang Mail Mail and know of this festival - Thailand International Balloon Festival. It's taking place on November 25 - 27... I was even thinking of going there for a second time if I really enjoy it till I remember there's a wedding dinner on the 26!!! Shucks.

Oh well, maybe next year??? :)

I have read and heard many wonderful things about the city and am pretty sure it would be a very pleasant trip minus the rain! It's also coming winter for them and the weather would be slightly over or under 20°.... YAY I love such temperature!

Crackling nails

2011-10-17T00:07:00.001+08:00

Shimmering tomato red, topped with Nubar V-men matte coat and then China Glaze silver crackle.

Stop the water!

2011-10-17T00:02:00.000+08:00

Thailand is badly flooded... but I still want to go to Chiang Mai. Nothing has changed my mind yet unless the flights are cancelled due to the travel warnings. Fingers crossed that things will get better in a week's time!

Aww...

2011-10-16T23:46:00.003+08:00

My heart is feeling warm and snugly...

These weeks I have caught up and spoken to many friends I don't often see. I have also talked to my (about there!!) 10 years old online friend, from my yahoo/ICQ days. Geez, from the time he worked in Singapore to now a married man with 2 kids, moved to Australia then now Hong Kong. Amazing thing, internet is. A long email from someone I drew inspiration from. I do like getting written to, I wrote a lot to others but not as much these days. It's so difficult to find people who can maintain an ongoing email conversation these days. I met quite a few since the internet era started... but to be honest, very very few or almost none lasted. It would be a great few years, sometimes even with people I never gotten to meet, but it's fine. An online friendship is sometimes supposed to be kept at that. Also my dear friend called from the UK, thanks to the free app we get on the phones these day!! I haven't spoken to her for ages and it was great laughing and chatting like the olden days :) I used to pay so much to get calling cards to call to Germany... if only the technology was this advanced.

Talking to people keeps me sane.

Omamori

2011-10-15T18:54:00.002+08:00

Omamori are Japanese amulets... and I have just received the third one as a gift. I just wiki-ed it and realised its said it should be replaced once a year and the old ones should be returned to the temple. How am I going to send them back?? I guess I would retire them in a box.

When one of my good friends was flying, she brought me back one. One that would bless me in getting my wishes fulfilled. It's bigger than the others I have, with chinese characters sewn on it. Then when another friend of friend living in Japan first got back to Singapore, he gave me another, pink with a goat sewn on it and a tiny golden bell. I had no idea why I was the receipient as we weren't that close but he said he felt that I was the right person to have it. I guess it was wrong because somehow it lost me shortly. I was devastated as it was a gift and exceptionally cute. That one was meant for love, and it probably wasn't meant to be.

Last year during my trip to Taiwan, I also got myself one (similar to the Omamori) from a Chinese temple in Tainan. It's not free, you have to buy it from the counter and have it blessed in the temple by circling it around the pot of joss sticks. I don't know what it was specifically meant for, but most of them are used to ward off bad luck, so I guess no harm getting one!

Few days ago, I met my ex-colleague, a feisty young lady. I was surprised when she passed one to me, because friends whom seem to go Japan would just get that for me. This one also had chinese characters sewn on it, pink with a tiny bell and in a petite size. It's also meant for love :) Well, let's see if this works, I have to keep it well this time.

Original Tokyo Banana with Omamori

I also received this box of Original Tokyo Banana. Many thanks to Cheryl. I tried the chocolate version which is delicious but it seems like its no longer in production now. They now have the caramel version which I am not a big fan of. I still prefer the chocolate one. They are very similar, banana shaped cake with banana cream (made from real banana). Give it a try when you're in Japan!

Is NO in your dictionary?

2011-10-15T14:31:00.000+08:00

Thanks Yus for steering me back to the right track. I admit that my recent posts aren't probably the easiest to digest, probably due to the surroundings I'm living in. I just want to write one more ranting entry.

I really don't understand why I have such people around me... I'm normally pretty tolerant but too much is over the board. Is it hard to say NO? If yes, learn to say it because even a kid can say that. I sometimes prefer talking to my male friends because they are less wishy washy, more straight to the point.

Let me cite you some of the most ridiculous or very selfish examples:
"I can't hang out late tonight, because it's the hungry ghost festival right now." -- seriously will the ghost eat you up?

"Can we meet here because it's easy FOR ME to go home later?"
"Can we meet that day because everyone else is not free FOR ME that day?"
"I can't go out because my mum is asking me to do this... blah"

It is sometimes valid to say that, if someone else is not free for you, it is OK to arrange it with another person. But sometimes agreeing to someone and later coming up with stupid excuses is too much. Don't agree, if you don't have the intention to keep your words! Worse - if you always think you have a valid excuse and you're not in the wrong.

Would you die just admitting?
"Hey, that's a bit far for me!"
"I am lazy to go."
"I'm not in the socializing mood to hang out."
"I am busy."

Very simple, no?

If you know I'm talking about you, take note that honesty works with me. I will NOT cry just because you can't go, I'm asking you because I do feel like you would be a great company. If not, no big deal, and it pisses me off with your RUBBISH excuses.

Brrr.rrr.. make my toes glow!

2011-10-12T23:41:00.004+08:00

I bought this during my birthday and decided to try it out. China Glaze's It's Alive on my toes. I also added the Ghoulish Glow that didn't seem to do anything :( No glowing toe nails!!! But I do like the green glitter, not a glitter fan nor fan of green color usually. I also love the Ruby Pumps. the red glitter a lot.

Now now, that gives me an idea.. what a nice combination for Christmas!

30 years and 5 days old

2011-10-12T23:35:00.000+08:00

My blues have gone hiding. Social life seems to peak. Suddenly old things resurfaced, the good and the bad things, the things I do not wish to see, the people I dread of seeing... it all came back. All at once. I'm slightly overwhelmed tonight. I was bored at work, routine has kicked in and sometimes I'm asking myself, "How much longer?" How much longer to stay in an office job...? Is it my kind of life? Perhaps I just need a holiday. Then I will settle back in, enjoy Christmas, welcome a new year and then begin to detest routine setting in once more. I have to endure, I have a trip to America next year and it's going to need a lot of cash! Situations. Why do situations always set a limit to our happiness and freedom?

The day is today

2011-10-07T14:01:00.001+08:00

I thought it would be easy to embrace it... but it's not.

I am feeling the blues. I am feeling that age is not just a number. I am wondering at 30, what kind of life I want to lead in near future... Suddenly, I am not very pleased with what I was contented with. Is this an age thing or I haven't truly found what I wanted.

My job is starting to bore me especially when I feel that I am short changed by my colleagues in the UK. Why am I always helping them and no one's helping to cover my tasks? Why am I always thrown all the shit work they do not want to handle, even if its just a very simple request and require not much effort? Why am I always finishing my tasks so soon and theirs stay in there for days, even weeks when it doesn't take hours to do. Why do I always need to write emails like I'm writing to dummies? If they do not hire people with common sense, then why hire them? I stood up for myself yesterday when they threw me two more tasks, and so they took it back. They obviously could handle it. Do they think we "Asians" are more diligent and can take more "shit" without voicing out? I am not swallowing that.

Suddenly being 30, I see myself asking myself what I really want to do. I want to be doing something I enjoy, not being promised whatever that can't be met. I envision an ideal life. I see options and I see ways out to getting what I want, and this is the beginning.

So many people I know are not happy but instead of doing something, they remain stuck, give excuses and only complain. Is this a Singaporean mentality? If yes, very sadly, we're not going to achieve what we want. I visited Charmaine and Cyn last night, and the things Cyn shared hit me hard. Singaporeans are brought up in such a ruled and restricted environment, no one was taught how to use common sense, empathy, flexibility and doing something out of the way for others. I suspect it's not just a Singaporean thing, the later generation do lack the same things. I feel for her as she described the struggling experience with the medical staff here, I feel for myself and everyone else who feel the pain.

So... today is the day I shall set myself new goals and do something to achieve them.

Red like ruby

2011-10-05T01:03:00.000+08:00

How I love it! Glittery red is the way to go! I almost couldn't bear to take them off till they chipped quite badly... Very nice, I think I found my color ;)

China Glaze Ruby Pumps!

I don't wanna say goodbye...

2011-10-04T15:02:00.002+08:00

The night was cold and the day is freezing.

As I read one of my friends' blog, my heart sank. She was told to bring her daughter home to say goodbye, little Charmaine has been fighting neuroblastoma for approximately 3 years (corrected). All these time, she remained high spirited and chirpy, which probably kept the monster at bay. But the doctors have seemed to do whatever was possible, she had been to China and New York for clinical trials, her mum has fought to get drugs available here. It is sad to know this day still has to come.

I am sure she knows she has been a strong warrior, I am sure she feels the love her family and strangers has showered her, I am sure she has never given up hope on growing up...

If you happen to read this, say a little prayer for her. No matter how small, I hope the little girl has more time in this world.

I want some Thai-some-ness

2011-10-03T17:18:00.000+08:00

Lots of people have been visiting Chiang Mai lately... 2 friends and the parents of a friend. It seems like I'm always going with the crowd. When I last went to Taiwan, whole lots of people I met went too.

I'm going specifically to Yi Peng this year, to see the lanterns floating into the sky. That must be surreal! Whereas in Bangkok. they celebrate the same festival (Loy Krathong) by setting off lights on the river. I have not planned anything really except getting the accomodation and flight booked. It is time to look at how to get to the festival, what to do over the 6 days... One of my friends did the Thai cooking school, that might be an idea... but I'm more tempted to do a day at the Elephant Park where they guide you to take care of an elephant. People tell me it's smelly and dirty, and do not understand why I want to do that. I just want to experience it, to be close to animals, to nature... to know how simple life can be. Isn't that how life was in the beginning...!

I saw the pictures from my friends' trips, and I can be sure that the night market's going to keep me real busy. I should bring a book there, sit at a cafe, daydream or read. That'd be awesome :)

An ice cream cafe, iBerry, found by the friend who went!

Turning 30 in 95 hours

2011-10-03T16:52:00.002+08:00

How many times should you celebrate a birthday? Maybe for a major event like this one, I guess nothing is considered far too many?! One of my friends had a month long celebration, while some had it for a week! I am not holding a big party, in fact, all the celebration are small intimate dinners. I prefer the quality time and conversation than making a lot of noise, getting drunk and having to entertain everyone. I guess this is the type of celebration we are gearing towards as we age... gracefully ;)

I can't count how many dinners I have had, as they all seemed too good and it felt like I was already celebrating since September together with my friend's 30th. One thing I do know is I am not working on my birthday! I don't really take off day usually for birthday but somehow I got persuaded to and I decided,"Yeay, no stress, no work and no seeing someone I don't enjoy working much with!" My pocket has been burning with the ongoing dinners, an upcoming holiday, a little shopping and also soon baby showers and wedding dinner. Ah well, hopefully the hole gets mended after all these events, which is probably then Christmas time... it doesn't sound like it's going to be time for saving in the coming months.

The letter that notifies me to change my identity card has arrived. Boy, oh boy, that card with a 12 year old photo of me, it ought to be changed! A week ago, I rewarded myself a new hairstyle and hair color, not entirely pleased with it as it's a similar cut as before. Perhaps I should do a major revamp? If that day comes, it will be a major revamp to my entire life. Now that sounds exciting!

4 more days to officially hitting the 3-0. 3 more weeks to soaking in another different culture, eating new food, seeing new places and talking to strangers. And maybe I should pick up a new sports or class too! New experience keeps me sane... I'm borned with a gene that defy routine, if there's such a thing?

No to nonsense

2011-09-22T00:00:00.001+08:00

I feel powerful enough (or perhaps in control is a better word) to not take nonsense anymore. Has it got to do with age? I'm getting wiser and tougher, am I not!

I recently received very unflattering (well, I find them unflattering) comments from a friend. Instead of rectifying things, he made it worse. So I asked for an apology or he gets off my list. When I say things, I MEAN THEM! So off he goes. Some people really think I'm a softie because I don't look I am MEAN enough. So try it.

The recent Monday morning, my sister suddenly went crazy and vented her anger on a stool during breakfast. Then we reprimanded her and got swore back at. It fumed me, we never did anything to provoke her, yet she always vent her work frustration at home. She's an annoying b!tch and I really wonder why we are borned in the same family. I took up the stool and I swore I could have throw that in her face. That ruined the start of my week but it soon got to the back of my mind. I haven't been talking to her since Monday but she's trying to make peace now. I seriously can't be bothered because I don't know when's her next outburst. So let's see how well we do in Chiang Mai, it's a bit of a risk to do a trip with her honestly. The last Hong Kong trip is already hell at times.

Why is it always my friends are taking me for granted??? Say NO to being nice, say NO to yes. But I am not tolerating all the sh!t now. Do it with tact or get the F out of my life. One of my close friends (I don't feel that close anymore) always talk to me as if she's commanding me. She will text me "Call me" whenever she's back. The thing is she can call me, right? I don't mind but I just don't like the way she says it. Can't she be more polite? When she talks to me on the phone or MSN, she screams (yea, try imagining it on MSN). IT IS ANNOYING. So finally today, I replied her, if she can't ask me nicely to ring her, then she should be the one calling! So fine, she's pissed, but she needs to know that's what she deserves to get as a reply.

It used to be a nuisance...

2011-09-21T23:29:00.001+08:00

but now nails painting can actually be quite theraupetic!

My latest spot - Essie's Petal Pink

Last week - Skinfood Pedicure Glittery Navy Blue

My current feet - China Glaze's For Audrey

Smartest idea ;)

2011-09-21T14:59:00.001+08:00

Why won't they sell ice cream at half price on rainy days???

Well, isn't it so, what's the possibility of anyone getting it during such cold weather???

I would buy it if it's half the price! Anyhow, I had the passion fruit gelato earlier, it was drizzling, at least better than the cold evening the day before. So sour, so to my liking!!

(This reminds me how Giordano sells umbrellas at half price on rainy days!)

Randomness XIX

2011-09-16T16:23:00.002+08:00

The other night, someone's legs caught my eyes. They glittered at night. As she walked closer, I realised they were wrapped in plastic wrap, it must be some slimming treatment. I wonder if she knows they are probably a bit attention seeking.

It has been one year!!! Someone I thought I liked a year ago has now diminished, and sometimes I even forget what he's called. Geez, memory ;) I am glad somehow, you know, things reveal themselves with time, and you sometimes see it's a blessing in disguise.

After 3 years of loss of appetite in the dating game... Recently, things have changed. It was a good rest; I learnt many things about myself in the process, found my happiness and confidence without the need of assurance from anyone, especially men. I can safely say, they still do stir my emotions but I can better control them and also kick the asses aside. Why tolerate men whom do not respect you, they do not deserve us!

A big campaign at work is just over. The people I work closely with recently have became quite anal, always making things difficult and wasting time. Someone is testing my patience again. I need to 打小人。 I found this and it's pretty amusing. Thanks to my team members, they made my life much easier. But there's something I don't understand, why do we always need to be tactful and make them happy when they are wrong??? Just reject them, say "NO"... Is it British culture to be tactful even when its not time to be!? Geez, if so, that surely needs a change. Learn from the Chinese, swear at them!! LOL.

I finally caught up with the friend who treated me like her spouse! Remember the one I was talking about, I almost cut off ties with her. Someone inspired me, she/he said we shouldn't let small things ruin a true friendship. I'm not sure if I can call these small but anyhow I wasn't really bothered to be honest. Things always take two hands to clap, if she's willing to change her attitude, I should give her a chance? I still never felt things have changed, I think its all in her mind.

When I get older, I tend to try things I didn't use to like again. I went to KBox, I never like singing and still don't, but things are fun when you do it with friends. I used to hate earth colors but my clothes, shoes and nails are turning brown... So give it a go, you never know, you might just like something you used to detest.

I'm once again back listening to UK Radio and they still make me giggle. Oh boy, how I miss the English accent!

Turning 30 in 38623 minutes

2011-09-12T01:59:00.001+08:00

As I write this, most of my closest friends have turned 30... I am almost the last. And I thought I'd like to re-live my memories as I count the days to the new phase of my life.

I have loved and hated.
I have almost drowned, crashed and died.
I have forgiven and forgotten.
I have severed ties and also rekindled them.
I have let go of toxic relationships.
I have learnt to cherish,
I have found hope and lost it once again.
I have survived my darkest days.
I have found myself, and continue to discover more.
I have lied, cheated and been dishonest.
I have done good to reap karma.
I have travelled alone, with friends or family.
I have been loved.
I have friends I thank God for.
I have had great bosses and also shitty ones.
I have people whom came into my life as my guardian angels or bad asses, both I learnt many things from.
I have learnt and never stop learning.
I have done myself proud, my parents proud and occasionally those whom I meant something to.
I have had days I was ashamed, disgraced or humiliated.
I have done things I regretted, and hopefully not anymore.
I have succeeded and failed.
I have my courageous days and times I just want to shrink my head back in the shell.
I have been lucky, and also many times unlucky.
I have many fond memories of those dear to my heart but whom have left.
I have many unanswered wishes and endless faith.

I think I could go on and on.... I have no idea why I am writing this, but suddenly it just came to me. I want to share with you guys that life is all about balance. There's always good and bad, there's always up and down. We can pick ourselves up if you want to, we can always see the positive side of things if you want to. There's a lot of things within our control if you want to take control of it. That includes saving our planet. There's no doubt there are bad times, there's also no doubt there are people whom want to make others' lives miserable. We can find happiness within ourselves, and we don't need it to come from others, to reassure us. I hope all of you find contentment in the simple things in life, because in fact we do not need much to be happy.

It's time to decide... uugghhh

2011-09-05T14:25:00.002+08:00

I have a problem.

I am a neurotic perfectionist with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Well this is not scientifically proven, but again it's my anxiety at work. I hate having to make a decision, like a final one out of so many choices. Too many choices is NOT a good thing, it makes me anxious, stressed and forces the perfectionism in me to surface. Read this article. You will agree that sometimes less is more. When you have less choices, it's very easy to filter, and you would reach a decision in a much shorter time. Do you sometimes shopped for hours and ended up with nothing? I do - quite a couple of times, at a book sale, mega sale, bookstore or even for clothings. I just gave up choosing.

Consumerism gives us far too many choices... When you want to buy something, how do you decide on a brand? Hearsay, reviews or advertising? Advertising is the perfect example of marketing gimmicks. You make something look good so people buy it. Some people hate the TV because they feel advertising is bullsh*t, the TV programmes distort people's perception of things and the fairy tales idealize life. Don't you agree, they make you believe in love at first sight, or the hero always win ultimately and the bad people always have retribution? And do these happen in real life? Sometimes they do, only sometimes.

A good example is I recently booked my hotel for Chiang Mai. Initially even before I got my flight, I had in mind just 2 places I really would like to stay. One is very affordable while the other is not. I had set my mind on dividing time between the two, but realised later the hassle might not be worth it. Then when I began a search, there are over 200 choices on Agoda, and I believe even more when there are those whom do not have online presence. I then shortlisted my favourites (forgotten about my initial choices) but as time went by, the popular ones got fully booked and I just had to make a decision quick. I detest it. I hate doing something under pressure. But I booked it, one of my preferred choices but not the ideal. Then I became obsessed about my decision. "Did I make the right choice?" "What if I found somewhere even better and cheaper?" "What if the reviews aren't true?" So many unnecessary question marks in my head. I had a urge to look again even though I had already paid for my booking. I'm insane. Tell me, am I not? One should learn to let go, "Just let it go... and accept it", I remind myself. It might not be what someone else has described in their review but it will be my own experience and I can make it just as good as I would like it!

To end this off, I want to share with you a wise quote from the above site - "The freedom to make choices brings the responsibility to live with the consequences." (copyrighted to Psychology Today)

And now I shall wash my hands off it, force my brain to shut off and look forward to the holiday in October~

And so he has arrived...

2011-08-31T15:44:00.005+08:00

This is a professional review on my new man >> here.

I read all about him. I went around searching for him (to have a test ride). When I finally found him, but my initial thoughts was he was quite a handful, as in he took up the whole of my palm! He wasn't the easiest to mind read; I kept pressing on his wrong buttons, at times I almost gave up. He doesn't has a manual, the only way to know him is still to keep pressing those buttons till I get them right. A pdf could only go this far. Forums do help.

To date, it has been a little over 2 weeks, 17 days old to be exact. I'm still figuring him out, it probably will take me quite a while. I don't think I know everything about my BB whom now sits by my bed as my alarm. His rubber parts have all fallen apart making him prone to dust invasion, so I have to tuck him nicely in a pouch. I still recall having a spare samsung phone which I need to bring out on special occasions, e.g. attending a wedding dinner, a party or anything I wouldn't have much time on the phone! Now, how many phones is considered too many??

Anyway, why did I choose this man? It's very simple, I pick anything free* that goes with my plan. My desired brand this time round is HTC, and there are only 2 choices - Wildfire S and Incredible S. The only thing keeping me back from the purchase was the HTC support in Singapore which I read is horrendous. I hope I never have to use them. I would have considered HTC ChaCha just for the keypad but they are only limited to SingTel, so one choice down. I later saw it in reality and thought I would never give up BB for ChaCha if you saw the way it looked.
*Means I only pay a nominal fee 2 years later if I keep this phone.

While it has a few things I'm still getting used to, such as a touchscreen keypad, highly sensitive touchscreen, pressing the power button everytime I need to unlock it... Also many that Android can possibly improve, having folders in "All apps" instead of on home screen, enhanced address book and other built in apps but these we can easily replaced with the others we choose to install.

I'm not a big iPhone fan, but I don't hate them as well. I think they are good if you just want it like a bundle, just like a packaged tour, it comes all inclusive with many add-ons. I do like to point out a few things my handful man can do (I'm not an iPhone user, so correct me if I'm wrong if iPhone can do that as well):

1. Weather widget
My favourite built in app. It rains and shines on my screen, it never fails to brighten up a gloomy day.

2. Customisable apps and themes
I have now Go SMS and Go Contacts to replace the default SMS inbox and address book. Sorry B, Handcent SMS interface doesn't appeal as much to me as this one does. I can even use a different theme everytime! I have a few now. I'm looking forward to change it to the Christmas one when time comes.

3. I can stick a post-it note on my home screen as a reminder!

4. I have 6 screens to play around with to place my favourite short-cuts, or widgets from the apps, e.g. daily horoscope, weather or news feed.

I can't think of more now, but I will tell you later if I find out more new features. I never thought anything of widgets until I'm now an Android user! They are godsend inventions!! By now, I have already 7 pages of apps from the inital 2-3 provided, I'm becoming an apps whore. The 8mp camera also comes with default lomo effects which I can readily apply. But who needs them when there are too many free apps around! Mr. Incredible S is also lighter than iPhone 4, I have allowed my surrounding iPhone users to have a comparison test.

So he's really quite a handful, isn't he!

Pinkly annoying

2011-08-31T14:49:00.003+08:00

Something as easy as the wrong nail color spoils my mood. I don't know why but perhaps this is what color therapy is all about. I wore red (code 60, Golden Rose) some days back, it was bright, cheery and attention seeking. I have to agree it's an awesome red color. Though I enjoyed it, it wasn't really my color. It made me more prone to agitation and impatience.

My colleague kindly lent me two of her polishes she bought from Korea. The crimson pink (PK 204, Nature Republic) that looked awesome on her somehow sits on me now like we aren't related. It was a pleasant sight at first, but the more I look at it, the more I feel how unsuitable they are on me. It irritates me that I am unable to get them off right now. So *itchy hands* I topped them off with a layer of Essie Petal Pink, a translucent light pink, it somehow changes the color. Now, more a toned down crimson pink. I wonder how long they will last on my fingers, I don't have much confidence they will.

BB I miss you!

2011-08-30T00:21:00.002+08:00

I really do.

If you ever see me blog from mobile, I am using my BB. It's almost impossible for me to type on a touchscreen without feeling like throwing it against the wall. Nothing beats a real keypad. I do love my new phone for all the other functions, except accidentally tapping on my data usage! Other than that, it serves me pretty well. Ebooks, games, camera applications... The awesome weather widget, the ability to bookmark news for offline reading, free messaging with my oversea friends... There's definitely a lot more, so I can close one eye about the keypad. It just means I would write lesser, but I still can with my BB I guess :) I want to tell you all about the new phone but I shall leave it to another time.

Have a good holiday everyone!

Weird peh-peh

2011-08-30T00:12:00.002+08:00

I wonder if it pays to be nice. I guess not all the time. Today I gave up my seat to a peh-peh, someone old enough to be my grandpa by the look of it. When a seat was available, I ended up sitting besides him, he then got a little friendly and asked where I was heading. I told him reluctantly, coincidentally he was heading to the same destination. Then he asked where I am staying! I gave a rough answer about the area but he kept asking me for my block number that it freaked me out. He told me he's staying at Block 260. Hello peh-peh, thanks for telling me that, but I have no intention to let you know where I stay. Say I'm paranoid if you want but this is not the kampong era where you probably could easily trust all the people in your little kampong.

Choco flakes

2011-08-22T00:03:00.002+08:00

My nails are resting from the polishes, it has been about 4 days.

My wallet has been resting since Friday, I had forgotten my wallet that day. Now I am in debts, but should be able to repay my dear friend and colleague soon. I decided to forgo the Club 21 Bazaar Sale over the weekend to make my chocolate cornflakes (to imitate a similar Japanese snack which has discontinued!!) and do some chores (yea, the usual - laundry, dumping the recyclables in the bins downstairs and tidying up the kitchen).

Here's the simple recipe for my chocolate cornflakes. I leave them in the fridge now as they were sticking together and wasn't easy to dry up!

Ingredients:
A bar of bittersweet chocolate, Van Houten, 200g
A box of cornflakes, 325g (but only used 30-40%)

I should really temper the chocolate but I haven't had the proper equipments to. But I did use similar steps, using the double boiler method. I don't have that, so I used a bowl to contain my chopped chocolate and place it over a pan of water. The chocolate melted really quickly as I stirred it with my rubber spatula. Soon enough, it was smooth and silky. I couldn't measure the temperature! So I just based it on my guts :) Then I removed the bowl of melted chocolate, and add in the cornflakes bit by bit, till most of the chocolate were used up. Then I lay the coated cornflakes on a piece of aluminium foil. Now they are sitting in two containers in my fridge, I'm pretty pleased I could make so much out of so little. It costs $4.80 for a small pack in the Japanese snack store, though that's not the one I'm imitating (which is in the shape of sliced pizza).

Morning Friday~

2011-08-19T10:26:00.000+08:00

Nothing beats 3 "Thank you" work emails and none giving me extra work. How nice is Friday treating me!

At work I have started drinking bottled water and somehow it's helping the bowel movements (not that I have any constipation anyway!). Seriously, drinking the filtered water doesn't. And Evian seems to the most effective, but I don't get to drink Evian much, just on special occasions. Try it, you never know!

Tonight we celebrate one of my friends's birthday, and my fingers crossed that we will be able to get a table. Beer, friends and good music... one sure can't ask for more! Getting nearer to 30 is beginning to daunt on me.

Did I mention my sister almost bought the whole collection of the popular titles of self-help books from MPH? I recently got a Groupon for MPH, but to my dismay, I can't seem to find something to my fancy. The collection is very very small, compared to Borders or Kinokuniya; besides my sister has already gotten most of the inspirational ones. So I decided to sell it off to her, and she bought herself the "Mini Shopaholic"!

I'm reading "Have a Little Faith" by Mitch Albom (yes, the sister bought it) right now. It has a lot of stirring phrases I like to quote, I shall share them when I have time to write a little review!

A little shiny

2011-08-14T19:26:00.002+08:00

My current spot.

Skin Food Jojoba Pure Nail be001

And we found these over the weekend. My mate bought these two colors, while I found my long awaited metallic crackle.

China Glaze's Re-fresh Mint & Heaven

China Glaze Metallic Crackle - Latticed Lilac

Letting go

2011-08-14T00:08:00.001+08:00

I have decided on my new phone!!

Despite that my Blackberry is slowly disintegrating after 20 months of frequent usage, I still can't bear to let it go. I will miss the typing with the keypad, its awesome music and video on the little screen when viewing Youtube and the touchpad. I dread moving on a new phone, having to learn all over again, and the horror of visiting the service centre if anything goes wrong. Fear. It only inhibits new experience. I know I will overcome it, but it's just my reluctance to let it go.

Blackberry, don't die (even though you are!) :( No matter how much others dislike you (my colleague seems to be against BB, he's been psyching me to join the iphone gang), you'll still be in my fond memories.

Lunch buddies

2011-08-12T15:34:00.005+08:00

Why are there some people you never get sick of... while there are some you soon have enough of?

My longest record is the same lunch buddy for 20 months and not once was I ever sick of eating with him. Now I get put off eating with this colleague whom I often find annoying. Don't ask me why, but just her personality is a huge turn-off. I reckon one surely needs "chemistry" with a lunch buddy too. I only had lunch with her once a week for the recent two weeks and that was enough. I didn't enjoy it particularly and I think she's beginning to sense it for herself as well. She has began to make her own appointments with friends, I can't say how thrilled I am! She only talks about superficial stuff, mainly about her boyfriend. When she's out for lunch, she can actually "sms" me,"Can you help me buy fruits?" Do you think she's crippled or just lazy? She's out for lunch, can't she just get it herself? It's so annoying. When she has training till lunch time for a few days, she's expecting a slave to buy her lunch, can't she just buy some food before or after? She has often no opinion of what to eat, and would just buy what I'm eating 75% of the time. I don't like copy cats, at least not her. Today I'm out for lunch with the usual gang (including a new temp girl who seems to hit off with me), yet another favour from her to buy fruit juice... Seriously, I can't be bothered, if you're out to lunch, get it yourself, loser. She surely finds joy imposing on others and I find mine rejecting them!

Even at work, she would often bombard me with messages on the office IM, it's really annoying. Once I asked her if she was really free since she sent me so many messages. Guess what? Now she will "act busy" delaying her replies for hours, sometimes with silly messages. If only I can block people on the office IM, she'll be the first on the list.

God, can you please get rid of her? Have you not tested my patience enough??

Turning 30 in 5011200 seconds

2011-08-10T23:10:00.004+08:00

To celebrate turning 30 in almost 2 months time, I shall write a trilogy - 3 entries - randomly from now till October. This shall be the first. Don't take my title too seriously, that's only an estimate ;)

In the 20s:

You are under peer pressure.
You constantly seek validation (someone to assure you that you look great, blah blah).
You have to save and scrimp to afford something you been eyeing for months.
You go through fashion crisis (go dig up your old wardrobe and see).
You tend to take things for granted, i.e. friendship, love, family.
You even believe you might marry the first person you date.
You overestimate yourself often.
You don't have to work out too much to maintain a great figure.
You take what you are given.
Life is a beach.

Nearing 30:

You have just found yourself, who cares what they say.
Hey baby, you found self-confidence.
You can afford to pamper yourself within your own means.
You know what is style, bad fashion is your own fashion.
You realise who are the ones you really cherish.
You do love a variety, test-drive before you buy.
You embraced humility.
No matter how much you work out, the number on the scale stays the same.
You fuss over what you are given.
Life is a b!tch.

I might add on to this later... brain dead!

I also found a funny read that makes me smile, some of the things are what I dread of, especially checking the new box for age group when you have to fill up a form.

Voyage de la Vie

2011-08-08T16:27:00.004+08:00

Thanks to my colleague, I received free tickets to the show, Voyage de la Vie created by world renowned creative producer Mark Fisher! This is Resorts World Sentosa's resident theatre show, as seen from the poster, it's been on since last year?? I have watched musicals, but never a theatrical circus performance before, and so this is the first. I took my family and a friend along. Apparently, one of my sister and dad weren't the least interested.

It was mum's first time watching a performance in a theatre like this, I bet she was excited. After the show, she sounded really impressed by it and bragged to the ignorant ones staying at home ;)

"Voyage de la Vie" - " Journey of Life" - tells a boy's metaphoric journey to adulthood. Join the boy on an adventure to discover his identity as he meets memorable characters like the mysterious Lantern Kepper and the Crystal Cat. Told through energetic dance, athletic circus acts, and catchy songs, catch Singapore's first theatrical circus spectacular at Resorts World Sentosa. (text copyrighted to RWS website)

At the beginning of the show, the casts slowly drizzled in. Some found crawling over the seats, others parading down impressing the crowd with their glamourous costumes. As no photo taking was allowed, I can't show you more than I would like. Soon enough, they pulled someone up from the audience to show a very silly trick and then it began.

It was a combination of song and dance, magic show and aerobatics. The sets were amazing and never failed to captivate - I really liked the starry sky with a crescent moon with Aurelia Cat sitting on it (as shown below).

photo copyrighted to RWS blog

It was a shame Alexey Goloborodko (a dancing contortionist) wasn't performing that night as the "Game Master", it would have been great to see the world's most flexible person on stage!

photo copyrighted to RWS blog

They also managed to cut up someone right in front of me... As we were in row F, pretty near to the stage, still I couldn't tell how it was done! Joy nearly covered her eyes~

photo copyrighted to RWS blog

Overall, the ambience was great and the show was entertaining. If you have spent the money on the tickets, I would say it's all worthy! But it would have been awesome if we could get to see the original casts performing rather than the replacements. But this was complimentary, so I can't complain too much ;)

My life without 3G

2011-08-08T11:35:00.003+08:00

A couple walked into the train cabin I was in today, they stood in front of me. They exchanged a word before they whipped out their own phones. After that, they seemed like they don't know each other. Technology these days has taken affection out of most people's daily life.

Instead of walking over to have a word, some people choose to MSN or even whatsapp when they are in the SAME house. Even in the office, when you're 1 metre away, you send emails back and forth. I still like the personal touch of talking face-to-face; if I'm not too tied up and the other party isn't, I would rather we have a discussion then send a final email than writing to and fro. In the past, we would make an effort to make a phone call or even memorize your best friend's phone number. Nowadays, you're dead when you lose your phone, you probably don't even remember your parents' mobile numbers (at least I believe you remember your house number!). Not to mention how heartwarming it is to receive a handwritten card or letter than an email.

Most of my friends are carrying iPhone, they asked me why I don't want to get one? Yes, since they have it, it might be easy for me, we can play the same games and use the same applications. But a phone is just a phone to me, and I don't want it to take over my life. I know if I have both a data plan and an iPhone (probably don't even need to be an iPhone, just any smartphone), I would be like that person down the street whom I dislike. Those people that walk with their phone in their hand ALL THE TIME, they look at it from the time they step out of their house right till they get into the office. I just don't want to be one of them.

Social media is a part of my life and I am happy to have access to it when I have wifi. But if I have 3G, I would be on it every moment I have my phone with me. That's so destructive. I find it therapeutic to live without my phone when I go on holidays.

Paint it II

2011-08-07T22:42:00.001+08:00

As usual, I have been playing around with the nail colours recently. Here are some of the recently worn. My colleague whom has been painting for me owns a blog showcasing her polish swatches. Here's one of her entries with Orly Cotten Candy she borrowed from me, she also kindly painted them on me. I have to say you can really tell the difference if she painted for me or I painted them on my own. See the below:

Orly Cotton Candy dotted with dark grey, silver & white.
My colleague painted these, how perfect!
I decorated them as you can compare from her blog.

I decided to remove them on one hand & tried it myself.
Not as perfect. This is with OPI Skull & Glossbones.

Silver sparkles. Bought it off a stall, brandless.
On the thumb, its on top of the
Skinfood Pedicure range - dark glittery blue.


Gold specks with flakies. Color Combos from Sasa.

Shimmery tomato-alike color.
Color Combos from Sasa.

I think I ruined it with China Glaze Crackle - lightning bolt.

It's never easy to do the white crackle effect, I guess I have to experiment with it with more colors and methods. I wish they crack bigger.

This week's Mind Your Body

2011-08-05T12:25:00.000+08:00

If you're a Straits Times subscriber, you should read "Mind Your Body" supplement from yesterday's paper. There were quite a few interesting read.

How a guy managed to lose 114kg! I am amazed by his story, 贵人 (angels) still come into some people's lives. I guess some people are luckier than the others. I am inspired and would love to eat much healthier after reading his story. I have been having salads/soup/sandwiches for a week, time to reduce more carbo intake.

Then there's an article about Facebook friends and friendship. Somehow I wish my friend would read this! The author categorized the friendship in Facebook into friendship of utility, pleasure and perfect friendship. Somehow I don't see it as simple as he has illustrated. Though he mentioned friends of utility make use of each other, but even in perfect friendship it might happen too. I do agree with him, a virtual connection is nothing comparable to the face-to-face meeting... Is Facebook really helpful or harmful? I guess it depends on how the user uses it, if you use it to stalk your best friend or boyfriend's activity, is that even healthy? I am being on it because I can share my life with friends I don't see often, I enjoy their photos, I love discovering new things and sharing, I use it as a tool for interaction. If you don't like my newsfeed, delete me or hide me. I take no offence, it's your friend list, do what you want with it. Why do some people take it so seriously?

There's also an article on the worries of using Power Plate. It's a vibration device that helps you to lose weight by making your muscles and cells work much harder through the body vibration. I had a trial once, it really makes you sweat, however I feel its too straining for the body, and you might feel dizzy the first time you use the machine. They talk about the possibility of damage to the organs in long-term, which sounds scary! They also said people use it for a period of under 8-9 months have no issues so far but there's no scientific research of the side effects it might impose. They however did test on different group of people on different diet and fitness plan and those on power plate regime did show better results than the rest. So this is pretty ironical. Take the risk or no.

Delete me please

2011-08-02T23:34:00.002+08:00

缩头乌龟 means coward, it also literally means tortoise who hides its head in its shell.

And I am about to tell you I don't like them. If you are reading this, you better know I don't need these as my friends too. My friend whom I recently deleted used to do this, she often hinted on her Facebook status about her dissatisfaction with someone. Sometimes it was obvious she was talking about her husband, and other times, you went thinking,"Who are you talking about? Me?" I dislike guessing games, they are for KIDS. If she had a problem with the husband, why couldn't she talk to him instead of disgracing him in front of her friends? I don't understand. It only means she wanted attention. I am not criticizing her but I am using that as a good example of what I deem as a 缩头乌龟。If someone has something she/he's not happy about with me, I will be gald that to handle that upfront. Tarnishing someone behind their back is just cowardice. Or worse, in their presence to embarrass them? Is there something wrong with your communication skill or your personality?

What was the last thing my friend did to me before I deleted her? You don't have to guess it, she simply said something on her status to all her friends even though I know it was meant for me. So that was the last straw.

Remembering...

2011-08-02T17:29:00.001+08:00

I almost forgot August has arrived. Mum turns another year older this month, so is another of my friends.

I used to remember all the birthdays in July but somehow these people have disappeared from my life. Cancerians are often important people that entered my life, somehow or somewhat something must happen and then they are gone. If you ask me if they are lovely people, I can't say so. They always appear nice on the surface, deeply and privately emotional and often eager to please. Suddenly when I try to recall, I can't seem to remember much of them. I guess this is what you call "selective memory". I just read it's dangerous.

The phrase...

2011-08-01T17:59:00.000+08:00

"Forgive & Forget" is so so so underestimated.

Sometimes I wish the people who tend to use them first try it themselves. Can you do that easily, if yes, do you think that's a magic trick? Teach me then.

I have forgiven a lot of people whom I held grudges against in my past. Some were a breeze, others took a longer time. It is often easier said than done. Often things that mean a lot to you, have sentimental value or bring back memories usually are a tad tougher.

After a lot of self defensive text messages, she asked me this question, "Can I forgive & forget?" I almost wish this is as easy, I don't hate her, of course. But at the back of my mind, I know I can't promise so easily. Why do people take each other for granted so easily? Why does jealousy easily blind a person and totally changed her overnight? If she could give me a cold shoulder, hostile attitude and treat me invisible for almost a year, why should I forgive and forget in just one day? Am I stupid or something?

I am sometimes so tired of having to put in so much just to maintain a friendship built up with so much trust and memories. A friendship some years short of twenty years, yet needs so much reassurance and possessiveness.

It sometimes doesn't need much to know why I so prefer time alone, does it?

Some things no matter how dear, have to be let go...

2011-07-30T23:37:00.006+08:00

Being self sufficient is an attainment. Happiness is a drug, it gives you temporary relief from the pain of reality. Depression is like hijacking a ship, not only do you sink, you want others to sink with you.

More realization. As you get older, more things come to you.

朋友可遇不可求。 This phrase in Mandarin says, you can meet friends but you don't have to beg for them. How true! Yet so many people are taking friendship for granted, I am now thinking of "unfriending" a friend, she has been giving me the hostile attitude for a long time. To be honest, if she thinks its making me unhappy, she's wrong. I can't be bothered. I'm not going to beg for a friendship to work. If she doesn't want to reciprocate, cherish the things we have or even appreciate the effort that I have made, this is the end of it. My life is much better without someone whose constantly having PMS and wants everyone else to sink with her. No one has the rights to make another person feel bad or worse than herself! That's my principle. Time to celebrate~ HOORAY!

I wish she can find her inner peace one day! (And of course, this is meant to be sarcastic!)

Today I realised...

2011-07-27T14:41:00.002+08:00

The early bird really catches the worm, and its a big fat one.

The word "nice" is very vague and also subjective. It often doesn't last a long time.

The sweets I have been eating is actually Anise drops and not liquorice. I quote this from wikipedia, "It is known for its flavor, which resembles liquorice, fennel and tarragon... Anise can be used to relieve menstrual cramps." Good to know!

Money are like weekends, we can never have enough.

Intellect is the new sexy. Curly hair, good looks and sugar coated mouth are barely enough.

Nail colors to me is like sweets for a kid. I can't get enough of them, even if they risk a tooth decay. Speaking about that, it's about time to change color.

Most Singaporeans are not gracious at all, I feel disgraced.

Sometimes I am so comfortable with my own life that I do not know how to fit someone in, if needed.

My crush is still pretty attractive. Absence does make the heart fonder.

Spinning didn't help me lose any weight. It was probably quite a bit of toning up. I guess I need to kick the cake craving, or significantly decrease it!

Melaka makan trip II

2011-07-19T15:45:00.004+08:00

This sure has to be the continuation of the last trip... because the good things weren't in my tummy yet!

Thanks to Deal for a fabulous deal, not only was it cheaper than my first trip, we got a free upgrade to Executive Suite at Equatorial Hotel. Yes, we had an extra lounge, we could easily fit a family of 5 in that room. Joy, one of my buddies, was up for it, and so we booked it within hours the deal was on. We made the arrangement pretty quickly, even before the deal ended, and settled for the earliest Sunday we could depart. We even wanted to go that upcoming Sunday, crazy... but it was too late, as we had to make the booking days in advance to check the availability of the room.

I was already having many ideas of what to eat, even checked with my colleague whom frequents Malacca as his in-laws own an apartment there. So I got a list ;)

The bus journey was pretty smooth. As usual, the buses resorted to cutting Q by joining another bus from the same company whose in the front of the line. I am getting used to this dirty trick now. We arrived near 1pm, checked in, and immediately left for our first meal at Nandos. So much cheaper than Singapore, so yummy!

After the meal, we went around the malls for some shopping which I didn't get time the first time round. The two malls near our hotel are mega, there are so many shops and we seriously didn't go through them all. I bought a pair of brown wedges (those platform wedges from the past have re-surfaced!).

Post-shopping, we visited the sights and then got around to Jonker Walk. By then, the chicken rice stall had closed and the Jonker 88 Chendol was entirely wiped out. Bad luck. But it was all right, we went to 三叔公, inside there's a cafe named Lao Qian Ice Cafe and they do the best Durian Chendol ever (better than Jonker 88!!).

After that, we had a stroll around snapping picture, hats and bird cage hunting, buying bits and pieces of food/drinks. Joy fell in love with the sour mango juice, it was only RM3, it won my heart over too! By then it was past 6 and we got back to the hotel for the complimentary pre-dinner drinks they promised us. We ate some small bites and had a wine each. Such a bliss to be upgraded to the Executive Suite! Then we went back to Jonker Walk for the night market and probably a light dinner.

The night market was entertaining and bustling (much more than the first visit). I managed to find a lane lined up with food stalls, but I didn't try them as I was full from the pre-dinner snacks. Joy got some siew mai (pork dumplings at 6 for 3RM)! I had a chocolate candied fruit stick, and tempeh (fermented soya bean) at the Geographer Cafe where we chilled. Joy had a cocktail while I had one of my favourite drinks, Cherry Brandy on the rocks (which is not easy to find in Singapore!). We also found our hats, but Joy has no luck with the bird cage.

We made our way back soon after, but not before visiting the Malay market which comprised mainly of clothes (football jerseys), toys and stuff the locals like. Then we watched the TV till we fell asleep.

The following morning, we forced ourselves up at 8am and had the continental breakfast at the Executive Lounge. After breakfast which we tried not to have too much, we went back to Jonker Walk. We found the chicken rice stall which opens from 7am and shared a meal there. Those cute tiny rice balls. Then we ventured around, the Malacca shophouses are really pretty. Many are artistically painted, decorated or even preserved. You see wooden doors, cute 3D signages, colorfully walls... it's just a sight to behold! I could look at them everyday! We chanced upon a tiny store selling paper cutting of animal zodiacs and wedding related stuff, the owner was very friendly and patient with us while we picked our souvenirs!

After the walk, we sat down to have a bowl of Baba Chendol at Jonker 88. As it was early in the day and it's a Monday, the staff was unexceptionally generous with the brown sugar syrup! We sure were satisfied! If you're hungry, try the noodle store besides, it sure looks good and everyone else was eating. Before we left Jonker Walk, I just had to get myself another hat... Yes, that's the main reason I am back in Melaka! Yea, what a hat whore.

We still had some time left before our coach would pick us up, so we paid RM3 each to enter the huge ship by the Melaka river. It's a maritime museum! Not very interesting as I hate history, but they make good photos :) But the trip seems incomplete without a meal at A&W (something we can't get in Singapore!), and so we did. I swear by then we were stuffed!! We just had to have it, and we brought the food in our coach for our break time. The coach back was a double decker, I think I had motion sickness sitting up there, but managed to get some sleep after watching a movie - The Tourist.

My thoughts on The Tourist:

I actually quite like the show. It's intriguing every single minute and at the end of the show it is shocking to find Johnny Depp to be the guy afterall. But somehow along the way, I think it was already giving away subtle hints. Oh boy, the man who never fails to sweep any woman's feet off the ground!

Getting older...

2011-07-19T13:54:00.000+08:00

... and more intolerant towards

Inconsiderate people
Believe it or not, sometimes I feel like screaming at the people blocking the right side of the escalator in the MRT stations. I have done that before and I don't think it's healthy for myself, LOL. If only I have super power, I would burn their backside to make them run up.

People that talk with no common sense
People whom have brains but do not use it enough. Sometimes, I really feel irritated by such people, they tend to ask you silly questions even though they know you don't have the answer. E.g. When the lift is not working, they ask you,"So how uh?" How do I know how, do I look like I can fix the lift??

People whom are less intelligent or i.e. stupid (not the retarded or mentally challenged)
Sorry, I don't blame you for being this way but it just gets on my nerves.

Clingy people
Come on, I'm not your mama.

People whom like to show off
Both the local and the expats. The expats tend to like to show off when they have a nice car and a six figure salary on an expat package. They think all the girls will flock to them just because they have blue eyes and blond hair?! I don't mean all of them but you will see when you meet one. The locals whom feel they are superior than most just because they work in a "well known" company and have high ranking post or they have worked in Australia for 10 years or they think they are smarter than most. Prove it. I can also easily migrate to Australia and work there for 10 years at a super slack pace.

People who complain too much
Have you nothing better to do? I have almost no patience for them these days. If you just need a listening ear, that's fine. But if you go on for days and weeks, there is seriously something wrong with you, not your life. I can easily (very easily) find someone whose life is much worse and struggling for the simplicity of life than something so minor you're fussing over.

My current spot

2011-07-09T18:35:00.000+08:00

The other day, I did these for attending a church wedding (this morning). My nails are initially coated with OPI Barefoot in Barcelona, it's a pretty nude color but there were scratches after just one day. So I decided to "matte" them, I quite like them like that now! I like my pedicure too, it's black with glitter, not any fanciful polishes but they do look quite good, don't they! I think it reminds me of the pitch black sky with many stars... Serene, quiet and so pretty. I normally am not a fan of glitters :)

OPI Barefoot in Barcelona with China Glaze Matte Magic.

Faceshop black polish with Korean glitter.

All things good

2011-07-07T21:36:00.002+08:00

Like a cycle, the bad things will be over and the good will come.

My nail polish has arrived.

I put DND mode at work most time till 30 minutes before knock off and I left 5 minutes earlier so I could be ALONE for once! I managed to fix a lunch appointment without her tomorrow! I am not liking it when someone gets on my nerves too much, I can sense my tone has changed. (I know I am mean, but I enjoy being mean sometimes. Too nice only gets you walked over!)

Japan task is nearly over, GOD please, don't do it again so soon.

Boss is still ignoring my email for leave request... Where's the Mr. Nice we have been talking about?? Sometimes I really think he filters the things he likes to read. But never mind, I'm thinking of postponing my holiday.

Good lunch made my day. But it is weird they always "quote" me different prices everytime, today they charged me 70 cents less than the previous time when I ate EXACTLY the same things. Never mind, it works out a little discount for me when I average it.

WEDS stands for Welcoming Endless Dog Shit

2011-07-06T23:35:00.001+08:00

My nail polish hasn't arrived.

A crappy package known as "goodie bag" from Silk Air came but its all the useless stuff they dying to get rid of.

Big headache at work with Japan, can they give me less problem??

Annoying colleague kept sending me instant messages at work, I couldn't focus. I decided to keep her off with DND mode. She gave me :( when I told her I have my lunch appointments. Sorry, sad face won't work on me. Young lady, stop sticking to me like GLUE.

Boss hasn't said OK to my leave for my planned holiday.

Healthy food that tastes yucky ruined my day. I like Cedele, no more trying all the shit that everyone else been eating.

Listening to people talking in broken English (i.e Singlish) makes me want to leave this place more. I miss my dose of British accent, nothing comes close to it, not scottish accent.

I just want to sleep.

I want my ..eermm.. SPACE

2011-07-04T20:32:00.000+08:00

Clingy people irk me. Sorry.

I don't like the feeling. It probably is a very common Asian trait, but not for me. I hate the idea that someone just constantly needs me, my attention or talks to me at every possible opportunity. This is also why I don't like to be on MSN often because I cannot stand constant messages from people, even though I like them. But I don't have to talk to them 24/7.

In the office, I recently have a new colleague whom I work quite closely with. I detest the idea that she thinks we will lunch all the time. Only when I tell her I have things lined up, would she then find other lunch buddies. I don't want anyone to stick to me daily for lunch! I don't want someone who constantly wants to go home or walk to the train station together. I like being alone, or at least, as often as I like to be. Ermmm, it's difficult to tell her, "Can you please have your own life outside mine?" I guess I just need to distance myself from her time to time ;)

Too much foods kill

2011-07-04T19:57:00.007+08:00

I haven't been to IKEA for breakfast for a while. And it's a joy to go there with friends :) They always have a different breakfast menu and that is very enticing. I was late, so I got my friend to order some stuff to share. This time they were serving organic pancakes and french toasts. My friend was dying to have the trademarked meatballs and wings too... and so, I gladly obliged.

The mouths did not stop there ;)

Next, our first visit to U.d.d.e.r.s (local homemade ice cream) along Upper East Coast road, it's a hassle for me as I hate the winding bus journey. But when you have company, time on the bus flies by. I was so tempted to have a double scoop but for my waistline, I decided to just stick with one. Oh boy, what a tormentous decision to make!

Above picture shows Strawberry Field (with the real sour strawberry taste!), Orange Chocolate Bitters (intense dark chocolate with alcoholic orange taste) and the famous Rum & Raisin (yummy with real raisins soaked in rum). Very very yummy... I'm sure to revisit to try the wineberries which I tested if it's still there!

We also showed our talent on the board. The above tiny animals in bright blue were drawn by a little girl who was inspired by our mini zoo and wanted to add in her contribution :)

We walked under the scorching sun to explore the nearby restaurants and decided to head for Katong Laksa which we supposed was around the corner. Fortunately, we took a bus, because it was a long way ahead! The famous ones are the No. 328 and 49.

We settled for 328 as my friend fancied the air-conditioned seating, but the laksa didn't meet my expectation. In fact, I thought the "non famous" one at Holland Village I had over a month ago did a better job! So no no for a re-visit, no matter how many newspaper clippings you have on the wall!!

I wonder if this combination (alcoholic ice cream plus katong laksa with lots chilli) was so lethal that it made me so exhausted when I got home. After a short nap, I woke up with body ache and a headache that didn't leave me for over a day. To make it worse, I think all the walking under the hot sun didn't help! Today my face broke up in red itchy patches and pimples :( I might be allergic to something. Is it the ice cream?? Or the laksa?? Or was it heat exhaustion? I told the doctor who was amused when I said it might be allergy (haha, sometimes I'm a self doctor), he didn't think so but gave me the medicine anyway. True enough, after 2 pills and a mask I put on this morning, my skin totally recovers! Phew!

In a state of confusion

2011-07-04T18:39:00.001+08:00

I seem to be attracted to anything or everything that is of a great discount. A trip to Malacca, a Phuket getaway, a Macau package, a half priced hair cut, slimming package, Carl's Jr... obviously, anything you name it, I am tempted (at the very least, slightly). I think I am in a state of confusion where I cannot think right or sensibly. After a day of headache, I think my judgement has fallen below my normalcy. I cannot take my wallet out, or the consequences will be severe. I also can't stop looking at nail polish colors, but at least I have reduced my purchases in the recent weeks to perhaps a bottle a week. I hope I see nothing I really like soon!

I even ate the dosage of my medicine wrongly... Blah.

Randomness XVIII

2011-07-02T00:24:00.004+08:00

Friday, drinks. Saturday, a church wedding. Sunday, Malacca again (yes again!!). What a freaking busy week coming up!!! Not this week, but the coming one. Oh boy, how did I manage!! I seriously don't know, but life is suddenly getting much more exciting... I have too many plans!

We finally moved. I have a new desk, I can't say I love it. I used to be in a quiet corner up the attic of the shophouse, but now I'm sitting by the glass panel window. Yea, I gotta love the sun, I tell ya! And for next 2 months, the head of marketing is sitting right behind me, great huh!

Today, I met a colleague for nails painting. I am amused how easily it is to make friends ;) She asked if this is my first job, I really don't think I look that young am I!! So guess what color are my nails? (edited to now show you a photo, also check out my colleague's blog for my nail picture)

Nubar Yellow Primrose - I ♥ the banana yellow!

I am seriously thinking of Chiangmai trip now... I don't know why, but its calling me. I guess I just got to make a trip eh. Time to look into it!

I could bite my chocolate nails

2011-06-26T23:15:00.001+08:00

And so, I am fascinated about making glossy polishes matte, because matte is just so me. I just love the matte finishing!

OPI's "You don't know Jacques" topped with Nubar's "V for men"

OK I am super jealous...

2011-06-25T22:58:00.001+08:00

of this... because I'm dying to paint my nails a nice summer pale yellow colour and I CAN'T GET HOLD OF ONE anywhere. I'm frustrated but I think my wallet is secretly beaming with joy. The moment I wanted to get it, it was sold out everywhere and I even went to a flea market just to get it, the stupid owner did not keep the reserved bottle for me. So nah, I'm not buying from her anymore. I'd rather pay more for someone who keeps their words. Such people annoys me.

Stay with me

2011-06-24T00:30:00.001+08:00

Today is my 6th spinning class!

I have attended classes of 4 different instructors. Today's instructor is Ron, I've heard his classes on Tuesday nights are always full. I had this impression that his sessions are very tough (derived from a video on their Facebook page). It's unusual to see him on a lunch time session, but I thought it's refreshing to have someone new. My other instructors are a Malay guy, a Chinese lady and an Indian lady. Ron's a caucasian, I can't tell his nationality. He's not very old, maybe middle-aged. He has a great clear voice, tattooes and a very amiable smile. The most memorable phrase I can quote from his instructions today is "Stay with me." It means try to be at the same rhythm/speed with him.

Strangely, I didn't exhaust myself too much today; I'm wondering if I have gotten used by the 6th time... or am I doing it (in the right way) finally. Many offered help to adjust my bike today, but I think it was stuck. LOL. Even the macho guys couldn't fix it. But I had my seat higher and it does seem to help! I'm beginning to get the hang of it, not perfect, but much better than the first 2 times. 2 more lessons to go and I am done... What shall I do next?

Tumultuous Tuesday

2011-06-21T22:57:00.002+08:00

Today everything went wrong at work again... However, I seem to have gotten used to handling crisis and I kinda think I'm good at crisis management! LOL. We tried to resolve the issue, failed then resort to calling the emergency helpline. Afterwhich, we handled the aftermaths (enquiries about the website), and investigated the cause of the problem. I think we did really well. A pat on my back and the team involved.

Despite a disastrous morning at work, I wasn't feeling stressed. I was a little annoyed it happened again, but it was not within my control. But generally today I am feeling great, not sure why, you know that feeling you get when you woke up on the wrong side of the bed, it's just the opposite today. A really cute guy stood besides me in the train on the way to work, he accidentally brushed against my hand a couple of times while reading his book, but you know, I didn't mind it of course ;) Hope to see him again soon! On the other hand, if it's a fat sweaty uncle, I would be brushing them off or even wiping my hands with Dettol. Very funny, but isn't this so true! Somehow I have been meeting a lot more cute guys recently than the past, very weird... but I shouldn't complain! Last week, I saw one in the queue during lunch, somehow I was too shy to even smile at him, shit! On Sunday, I bought a leather card holder from a Japanese guy because he was too cute when he excitedly introduced his products (leather products he designed), I almost wanted a photo taken with him. Sometimes some things are worth paying for ;)

It's Wednesday tomorrow, so looking forward to my next spinning class and then the weekend. But nowadays I don't get much rest on my weekends which is exhausting...!

BBQ korean style

2011-06-20T00:02:00.000+08:00

Too much to eat. So much to recommend. This is an overdue post. But better late than never :P

My buddy was craving for Korean BBQ, and so I did a little research and found a little gem along Amoy Street. Well I think it's pretty good for the first time I'm having a Korean BBQ. I read some reviews on it that its an authentic Korean restaurant owned and food prepared by Koreans. I can't remember exactly what we ate! There was a seafood pancake, a tofu soup, Red Pig meat and beef for the BBQ, with the order we also were served 6 side sides (tofu, egg, kimchi and some cold salad). We also had lettuces and sauce to wrap the BBQ meat with, now this reminds me of the Vietnamese BBQ I had!! We had to have the Red Pig meat because the restaurant is named Red Pig too, so it must be some signature dish! LOL. Anyhow, the bill came up to over $90 for 3 and we were pretty stuffed. So I guess it's not that a bad deal really...

Fwah, what a week!

2011-06-19T16:45:00.003+08:00

I learnt "Fwah" from my good friend. LOL. It seems like a good combination of the "F word" and "wah" (which we normally used for exclamation).

This week has been horribly busy, with crisis at work the Friday before and then continuing onto Monday. Things finally got sorted but work never ceased to pile up, fortunately by Friday the major ones are done. The week crawled slowly, but I managed a movie, spinning class, changed my nails color twice, met 2 friends for lunches, helped a friend to vet his new website copy and then catching up with more friends and flea market shopping over the weekend (Okay, I admit I can never keep my words to stop buying nail polishes). It didn't do my wallet justice, poor cards, they need to be rested! I fell for the Club21 sale which started on Friday and bought myself a Marc by Marc Jacobs tote!

Pink flowery artistic tote!

My latest color craze - Skull & Glassbones from OPI Pirates of the Carribean.

One more good news, one of my entries for Silkair Explorer, a contest I took part almost a year ago, has been selected to be featured on an upcoming Silkair advertorial. I didn't win the contest, but still this is exciting, and I can't wait to see it. I will have one more additional portfolio for my travel writing!

Mama, let loose!

2011-06-19T15:22:00.004+08:00

My mum needs to let loose. She's getting all worried about my sister who has left for France. I wonder if she's able to sleep these two weeks. She's worrying if she has arrived, her safety and even started having doubts if the "teacher" who brought them there is even a "bad guy". Oh my god, mum, can you just let it go?

I left for London so long years ago, I thought she has gotten used to it. I assured her things are fine and the little girl needs to go out and see the world. But she replied,"You're different, you have 狗胆。" It means monstrously audacious, but literally when you translate it, it means courage of a dog. Thanks mum, I take it as a compliment. I think she really understands me well, doesn't she! But I am happy for the little bird to fly, because she needs to. My little sister has little courage, not adventurous and not experimental at all, she likes things the tried and tested ways. I know this trip will make her grow, make her realise there's a lot more things in life, but not enough till she sees the poorer countries too!

I shall see her in July and hear all about her new adventures ;)

Weekly movie marathon

2011-06-15T16:48:00.000+08:00

Thanks to Joy, who has taken the trouble to go get the tickets, I watched a couple of movies with cheap tickets and good seats. I caught another one last night alone, and sometimes I just like the feeling of watching it alone. Peaceful. Undisturbed. Hassle-free.

So I just thought I would share my thoughts on the films I watched.

Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
It's a whole new chapter. I still thought it was a continuation of the last series. The casts have all changed, but a few remains. I guess the most important part is to keep Johnny Depp in, as he's such a joy to watch. Seriously despite quite a few bad comments about the show, I still think it was entertaining. My friend nearly fell asleep, but I don't know how she did it because there's Johnny Depp!!! I do like the mermaid part, but my colleague was so against the idea that mermaids can be so deadly. Haha, why not? It's the surprise element!

Kungfu Panda 2
Still funny. Many loved it. I do but not as much. Plot is interesting, animation is great, panda is cute. That's all it matters, isn't it? A great movie for all, young and old. And now, find your inner peace...

Hangover 2
The first one is better, but still a good one to catch. At least, it connects to the first movie unlike a lot of other movies. The first one was more focused on Phil, Stu, Alan and Doug, but this one somehow placed more focus on Mr Chow. Mr Chow definitely made the show much funnier and oh, that little monkey too! I like the idea that it's in Bangkok, a total different setting from the Las Vegas setting. Oh Stu and Kimmy (the she-male), how gross, but that was a great laugh! I find Alan quite annoying though... can I give him a slap!!

The little bird flys!

2011-06-12T22:56:00.001+08:00

My little sister is going to France this coming Friday and I am really excited for her. She's 25 now, but to me, still so little. I hope she has the courage to explore a lot more things outside of Singapore. She's heading over with her "teacher" and a bunch of others to do a 2 weeks French language course. Of course, that includes staying at a school and some sightseeing excursions. She will be seeing a lot of France more than I ever did (which was sadly only Paris). After that, she will extend 2 days to spend some time with her friend living in France. I wish her a safe trip and may this gives her a good head start to future Europe trip (maybe with me ;) this time round)!

WWWhooot!

2011-06-10T15:28:00.000+08:00

After the last complaint about the train frequency, this morning I boarded a train WITHOUT AIR CON! Can you imagine with the stupid weather and the crowd at peak hours!! SMRT, what the hell are you doing...! Everyone inside was trying to fan themselves with anything they could and when it got crowded, the air was so still and humid!! It was getting so stuffy inside that I alighted a few stops after to wait for the next train. Imagine when I stepped out, the air outside (which was warm) felt even cooler than the air in the cabin, gosh, I wonder how those people survive another 20 minutes to get to town! I'd rather be late than arrived hot, sweaty and frustrated.

Freakish

2011-06-09T22:47:00.000+08:00

I lost my memory. Is it selective memory or was I pre-occupied with something? What happened??

I was in the shop, making a purchase. I was asked to pay by NETS, the next moment, I got an approval NETS receipt but I don't remember keying in my pin. I swear I still can't recall. It almost freaked me out that the transaction went through without my authorization. Or is it that, I really lost my memory?

It is a sign that I am getting old...

Fated

2011-06-09T00:45:00.003+08:00

"One peach, regular," I said to the Yami Yogurt auntie.

She didn't move for a few seconds and stared at me. Her eyes, large as goldfish, it then hit on me. Why are they so familiar?

"AAAaaahhh," I exclaimed. The auntie went on to fetch a cup of frozen peach yogurt, at the same time, she asked,"Do you remember me?" "Yes, yes, we used to work in the portuguese egg tarts cafe!" I suddenly recalled.

Oh my lord... that's almost 10 years ago. She still recognises me. This is fate, we meet again. I was having a hunger pang at 5pm, and decided to head out to Mr Bean nearby. I was craving for Yami Yogurt but I knew there wasn't any around. But I was so wrong. I stood in front of Mr Bean, and there was nothing I fancied on the menu. So I swang my head around. That instant, I thought God must have read my wishes, suddenly there is YAMI YOGURT! (I learnt that it just opened last week, so whose reading my mind!!) I was thrilled and I went up to have my usual favourite. That is how I bumped into her.

We had a short conversation and I am sure it won't be the last time I am seeing her. Yami Yogurt, here I come :)

Life indeed is a spin, sometimes it takes you round and round.

A storm tonight

2011-06-09T00:24:00.001+08:00

Floods have visited Singapore again. Singapore seriously has to look into flood prevention and prepare for stormy weather for the future. It never used to be this rainy during May or June.

As I pulled in the window pane, I felt the stillness outside, the trees were barely swaying. But the breeze brushed against my skin and knocked on my bamboo chimes. I looked up, the sky was red... almost dark red. It was as if it was bruised and awaiting revenge. I could feel it coming.

I lay in bed. Minutes ago, I read about a tsunami from the sky in the west of Singapore from a friend. I'm also getting live updates about it hitting Sengkang, the north-east side. I hear the chimes from my kitchen, the sky moaning softly... and I know it will all be here very soon.

Hotcakes

2011-06-05T21:35:00.000+08:00

My second attempt and the shapes get better each time. This is done with buttermilk pancake mix :) I didn't make these this morning as the rain kept me in bed till late!! I miss making banana pancakes, maybe next weekend ya!

Tip: Use butter/margarine to grease pan.

生日快乐Carrie

2011-06-05T15:09:00.001+08:00

I designed a birthday postcard for a friend in Taiwan. I hope the bits didn't fall off by the time it gets to her! She was a great help during my trip there and is a joy to have as a friend :) And I am so jealous of her natural curly hair that's as Q as the maggie mee... I think I will give it a try one day!

Made with love, packed with belated birthday wishes.

Paint it

2011-06-05T14:46:00.003+08:00

Recently, something caught my attention and definitely got a hook on my wallet. I was never too keen on painting nails until something just hit me hard. I started to look at swatches on blogs and after getting hold of a few online shops, it began my crazy spree for nail polishes. It's a phase, but the kind that will revisit from time to time. At one point, I would change the colors every few days once it started to chip... but sometimes I am just too lazy, and I'd give them a matte look with a coat of base coat.

Below are some of my moments.


Orly Lollipop with China Glaze Sea Spray. They go well with the rings, doesn't it?

Similar to OPI shatter, this is China Glaze Crackle.

OPI Suede Russian Navy. Taken after a few days... so kinda coming off by then.

OPI Suede Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees. Taken after a few days too.

Nail colors can be such a good fashion accessory too, don't you think?

Simple things in life

2011-06-02T10:35:00.002+08:00

This morning, the security guard uncle echoed my morning greetings. He made my day and I hope I made his.

In the train today, I witnessed acts of kindness and it touched me. An middle aged auntie was losing her balance whilst the train was moving. And the person besides her suddenly held her gently by her arm, and she managed to break the fall. Then it happened another time as the train was moving fast underground, the other person on the other side of her helpfully gave her another handgrip. As we were packed tightly in the middle of the cabin, she had nothing to hold on to. I was pleasantly surprised the people around her offered help. Another lady offered to swap places with her so she could hold on to the nearest pole. I looked on and suddenly wish the world is filled with more considerate people like them :)

I also watched on when I saw a few backpackers alighting the train. My heart yearns for another backpacking trip, one that I can rest my mind, put technology and the rat society behind... But as I grow older, less taxing activities seem to appeal to me more, such as going on a yoga retreat, a beach holiday, a foodie trip... Trekking or water sports are the last things on my mind.

Recently, I have cravings. Sometimes, I like to have a cake, marzipan chocolate, some pineapple tarts, bubble tea or a little chewy cream puff. I didn't resist, I went ahead to have it. It's such simple things that make my life happy!

I noticed someone carrying exactly the same bag I am carrying today... How embarassing! But at least we're not wearing the same things!!!